for. Over time, he became more than just the steer I was showing. He became part of my everyday life, part of my memories, and part of one of the most meaningful chapters of my showing career. Walking into the ring with him at the West Virginia State Fair is a moment I will never forget. There are certain moments in life that you wish you could freeze forever, and that day was one of them. Hearing Big Mac named Grand Champion Market Steer and then Grand Champion Market Beef is still something that feels almost unreal to say. Standing beside him in that moment, surrounded by so many people who have supported me throughout my journey, was a feeling I will carry with me forever. This moment meant so much more to me than simply winning two banners. It made me think about every year that led me here, every steer I have had the privilege of showing, and every memory that has come along with being part of this industry. There have been so many moments throughout my showing career that have shaped me and prepared me for the person and showman I am today. Being able to experience a moment like this made me realize just how much this journey has truly meant to me. But these titles will never be the only thing I remember about Big Mac. When I look back on this year, I will remember the time spent with him, the memories we made, the people who were there along the way, and the feeling of walking into that ring together. He gave me an experience that I will always be grateful for, and no matter where life takes me or how many more shows I get the opportunity to attend, Big Mac will always have a special place in my heart. I am so incredibly thankful for my
family and everyone who has been part of this journey with me. To my mom and dad, thank you for always being there and for everything you do behind the scenes that allows me to have opportunities like this. Thank you for keeping everything in order while I am away at college, making sure everything is washed, fed, and where it needs to be, and for continuing to support something that has meant so much to me throughout my life. I know there are so many things that happen behind the scenes that people never see, and I will never be able to thank you enough for everything you have done for me. And to my sister, Delaney, thank you for being someone I have always been able to share this journey with. Growing up, so much of our lives has been centered around the barn, livestock shows, and the memories that come along with them. There are so many moments that only we will truly understand—the long days, the excitement, the nerves before walking into the ring, the laughs, the tears, and everything in between. Having you as my sister has been such a blessing, and I am so thankful to have someone who understands this part of my life and has been there through so many chapters of it. No matter where life takes us, I will always be thankful for the memories we have made together and for having you by my side. I am also incredibly thankful for my family, friends, mentors, and everyone else who has supported me throughout my journey. So many people have played a role in getting me to where I am today, whether they realize it or not. From the people who have been there from the very beginning to those who have recently become part of my life, every bit of encouragement, advice, support, and friendship has meant more than I could ever explain. Winning Grand Champion Market
Steer and Grand Champion Market Beef at the West Virginia State Fair will always be one of the most special moments of my showing career. Not because of the titles alone, but because of everything they represent. They represent years of memories, friendships, animals, opportunities, and experiences that have made this journey so unforgettable. They represent the little girl who fell in love with showing cattle and never could have imagined standing in that moment one day. Most importantly, they represent Big Mac. No matter how much time passes, I will never forget walking into that ring with him and realizing that we had just experienced something I had dreamed about for so long. I will never forget the people standing beside me, the emotions of that day, or the incredible feeling of being able to share that moment with the people who have been part of my journey. I can confidently say that this journey has given me so much more than I ever could have imagined. And while the banners and titles will always be something I am incredibly proud of, the memories and people behind them are what I will cherish the most. Forever grateful for the journey that brought me here. Forever thankful for everyone who has stood beside me through it all. And forever proud of the incredible steer who helped make one of the biggest dreams of my life come true. Forever grateful. Forever proud. Forever thankful for Big Mac. ●
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