So Dear to My Heart

In 1903 Fulton Corners, Jeremiah idolizes the racehorse Dan Patch and longs to own a similar champion. He lives with Granny on her homestead and studies what it would take to turn a dream into reality. This early obsession sets the course for the boy's ambitions throughout the story.

A black-wool lamb is born and rejected by his mother. Jeremiah takes pity on the little creature and convinces Granny to keep him, naming him Danny after the racing horse. Danny's arrival marks the beginning of a new, complicated relationship.

Jeremiah keeps a scrapbook featuring a Wise Old Owl that dispenses advice. The owl's maxim, 'it's what you do with what you've got that counts,' becomes a guiding motto for how Jeremiah approaches Danny's ambitions. The message plants the seed for later perseverance toward the fair.

Danny's mischief begins to overwhelm Jeremiah's chores as the plan to win at the fair takes shape. Uncle Hiram and friend Tildy encourage him to stay focused and keep working toward the goal. The pursuit of blue ribbons eclipses ordinary responsibilities for a time.

Granny worries about money and refuses to fund the County Fair entry. Uncle Hiram tries to discuss the idea, but the cost remains a roadblock. Despite the obstacle, the Owl's counsel of perseverance continues to echo in Jeremiah's mind.

To raise funds, Jeremiah and Tildy venture into the swamp to collect wild honey. They return with two tubs full of honey, earning a substantial amount of money. The windfall gives them a real chance to change Granny's mind about entering Danny in the fair.

Shortly after the honey haul, Danny and Tildy disappear while Jeremiah and Granny scramble to find them. Tildy returns soon after, but Jeremiah does not come home before dark. Granny braves a storm to bring him back, returning without Danny despite his protests.

Feeling the seriousness of the moment, Jeremiah prays and promises God that if He lets him find Danny, he will give up his vain dreams. The personal vow marks a turning point as he weighs love against ambition. Granny senses the change and starts to support a more humble course of action.

Seeing Jeremiah's resolve, Granny tells a white lie that she too promised God they could attend the fair if Danny is found. The lie is meant to honor the vow and keep hope alive, not to deceive Jeremiah for harm. The moment tightens the bond between them as they commit to the same goal.

The following morning, Jeremiah finds Danny and declares that his heart has changed. He has learned to balance ambition with love and responsibility. Granny recognizes the transformation and redoubles her support for their effort.

At the Pike County Fair, Jeremiah is overwhelmed by pedigrees and prizes, yet Danny's presence sustains his resolve. The crowd is reminded of the owl's motto: 'it's what you do with what you've got that counts.'

Although another sheep wins the blue ribbon, Jeremiah and Danny receive a special award and praise from the judge. The community applauds their effort, and Danny is welcomed into Fulton Corners as a symbol of perseverance and heartfelt care. The family returns home to celebrate their newfound acceptance.