Stories

Molly (Tooker) Grossman
LaGrange, Indiana, 1980 to 1992

Like so many others who have shared a story here, 4-H was completely woven into my childhood memories. It led me to learn skills, gain confidence, and make friendships that would follow me into adulthood. In 1992 I was a Key Club member, top Tenure Member in LaGrange county and chosen to attend National 4-H Club congress in Chicago. I wasn't really looking forward to it being my last 4-H fair. Yet, as I finished my last project I felt a sense of relief I must admit!!!! That fair would have been same-ol- same ol if it wasn't for a nice young man who was a volunteer leader in the beef barn. He caught my eye during setup. The first day of fair we began talking. I perched myself on the top of a gate - determined to sit there as long as he was willing to talk with me. MAN..... sitting on a gate for an hour makes muscles that you never knew you had very sore ! It was a struggle to "glide" in my formal during Fashion Revue the next evening! It helped that I saw that young fellow slip into the back of the pavilion to watch me. By Wednesday of fair we were an item. Fast forward 17 short years as leaders, project superintendents and fair-board members. Now we find ourselves as parents of young 4-Her's. Our 4 children (by birth and adoption) are in Future, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year projects. I always wondered why my parents tried to talk me out of so many projects. As I look at some 20 project manuals in front of me, I realize their wisdom. Yet, it's all worth it. Every burnt cookie, every crooked seam, every bloated lamb, every lame pig, and every hoof-bruised toe. Every experience made me who I am and I'm determined to allow my children those same learning experiences! Thank goodness for those who have volunteered ans supported 4-H over the years to keep it woven into the childhood experiences of so many!