Tuesday, August 19, 2014

A Day on the Farm

This past Saturday, all of us (except for Kathy) joined Ben and Laura and the family at the Fair Oaks Farm in northwestern Indiana.  We had driven past this farm numerous times over the last years while going to and from Chicago and commented every time that we needed to stop one day and tour the farm.  Well, no more dreaming!  We had a great time and, if you haven't been there, encourage you to plan a day trip soon!


Here we are waiting for our ride on the bus to the Dairy Adventure.



While on the Dairy Adventure, we learned more about the farm, saw the cows up close, and watched the milking process.  Sarah had one word to describe it all - "Disgusting!"  I have to say I couldn't disagree.

Here are cows on the way to the dry milk barn.


This is the milking parlor.


My favorite part was seeing the calves who had just been born that morning.  There are between 80-100 calves born every day!


After the Dairy Adventure, we spent several hours in "Mooville."   With outdoor games and rides for children of all ages, this is a favorite for kids!  Thankfully it didn't begin raining before our little ones had time to enjoy everything.



The area was beautifully landscaped with many gardens.



Here are Sarah and Essie getting ready to climb the milk jug wall.


It's a lot harder than it looks!



Essie made it all the way to the top and rang the bell!!!


Benjamin enjoyed the train ride with his sister, Hannah.


And he parked these tractors all in a row.


Grace was a handful to keep up with, but she was all smiles, too.



Essie also tried the bungie jumping.  She's an adventurous and fearless girl!




After a couple hours of hard play, we were in unanimous agreement that ice cream was in order!  I opted for their Greek yogurt - so yummy!




When it began raining, we went indoors and found more fun things to do.  Everyone loved the cow carousal.  


 

Grandma's picture from the "Rub-a-Picture" station:  


This picture is a little blurry, but here is Essie trying to beat time in milking a cow!


Our little princess playing in some "cheese."


Overall, it was a fabulous day, and the kids want to go back next year!  We thank the Lord for the fun memories He gave us together.

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