Field trip

This week I attended a field trip with my oldest, Andre, to the Diamond D Horse Ranch here in Jacksonville....well...technically. The address is within the Jacksonville city limits, but it feels like hundreds of miles from city life. The ranch is 600 acres of animals and farms.

The kids got up close and personal with the animals. First, they got on a hay wagon for a tour of the ranch. The kids were all excited to see a baby pony who was only three days old. Then we stopped by the goat pen to feed and admire all the "kids".

We also drove through a cow pasture and fed the cows with some of the hay that we were sitting on. That was an experience! It was a little too close for me but Andre thought it was great. He just got a little grossed out when a cow's tongue touched his hand. Ew!

After the hay ride, we went on a nature walk and learned about protecting our native plants and trees as well as staying away from things like poison ivy. The guide pointed it out so all the kids could see it, but stay far away from it.

After a picnic lunch, the children took turns in the bounce houses, pony rides, and learning to brush a special pony named "Miracle".

One of Andre's favorite activities was feeding the fish in the pond. We had no idea how many fish were in there until the guide threw some food out into the water. Then the surface became a "alive" with catfish!

Overall, however, Andre's favorite part was the "barrel roll" which is just a big circle that spins the kids upside down (right after lunch!). Andre was one of the first to ride it, then he patiently waited for everyone else to go so he could have another turn...and another... and another. Here's a picture of him pretending to be dizzy after getting off the last time. :D