FIRST STEPS

It has become a tradition for Shavon Hodges and her family to go to the Steele County Free Fair. So it only seemed appropriate when Hodges’ granddaughter took a major life step during the recent fair.
Just a few weeks shy of her first birthday, Genesis Hernandez began walking on her own at the fair on Aug. 20.
Hodges joked about how she’s a little miffed at her granddaughter, whom she takes care of full time throughout the week while her mother, Tyler Brandt, works. “She wouldn’t walk for any on us, but she did for Brian (Martin, a family friend),” Hodges said. “I still feel a little stung that it wasn’t me… it was Uncle Brian.”
Regardless, Hodges is glad she was at least able to witness the memorable moment, which took place by the water balls in the midway. “Everyone started screaming,” Hodges said.
Hodges was so excited she posted a video of her walking granddaughter on the fair’s Facebook. It quickly generated 50 shares and more than 100 comments, Hodges said.
“I had to show everyone… it was a memorable time that I had to share,” Hodges said. “The fair means a lot to me, and I felt the need to share it with the community.”
When the fair found out about Hernandez’s first steps, a staff member reached out to the family with a fair t-shirt.
Life for Hodges hasn’t always been easy since growing up in crime-riddled St. Paul. She moved to Owatonna with her wife, Dinah, seven years ago. “We wanted to plant some roots and start a family,” she said.
Hodges, a former user of methamphetamine, credits Steele County Drug Court for saving her life. Ever since graduating from Drug Court six years ago, she has remained sober and is focused on her family.
“I’m now a well-known influence in town,” Hodges said proudly. “I’m just well known for good reasons. I’m still going hard, one day at a time.”
She said having a son has pushed her to get better. And she enjoys helping out with her granddaughter, so she doesn’t have to go to daycare. “I look at my children and grandchild every day and remember they are worth it,” said Hodges, adding with those influences in her life, it’s not hard to stay sober.
As she watched her granddaughter walk around, Hodges said: “I just look at her right now and life is too good. It’s better on this side of the field.”
Hodges not only credits her wife for being a big supporter but also the entire community. “I love my community, and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she said, adding she is so glad she left St. Paul.
She plans to keep the tradition of going to the fair alive for many years to come.
“It’s better than the Minnesota State Fair,” Hodges said. “It’s more family-oriented and it’s respectful. It’s the best, I wouldn’t miss it.”
And she’s already got her eyes set on what may take place at next year’s fair.
“Next year, it’s going to be running, isn’t it,” Hodges said looking at her granddaughter.