Field Trippin'

We had a beautiful fall field trip yesterday to a local university farm.  It was originally scheduled for Tuesday but our host was sick, and while it was a bummer to postpone it, we lucked out because Tuesday was rainy and yesterday was cool, crisp, sunny, and gorgeous. 

The biggest downfall of this trip is that we divide into two groups so we don't get to see everyone, but that is the only downfall.  It is an absolutely wonderful experience.
We max out the trip with 50 occupants, so two groups of 25. 

Our group started with a hay ride to the horses!

The children got an opportunity to brush and pet the horses and learn about their care and safety.

 

Then we got back on the hay wagon for a little ride and walked to the corn maze.  I don't think I took a single picture because I was trying not to lose my very adventurous and brave 2 year old in the corn.  Ha!  At one point, both Mike and I thought the other person had him and neither did.  Thanks, Tabby, for being our extra eyes!  They loved the maze.  After we successfully got out, the kids all got to pick an ear of corn to shell.

He's showing me his strong muscles after he successfully shelled his corn!

After we shelled corn, it was off to make apple cider!

Every child got a turn at pressing an apple...

then the college student pressed it down and the cider ran out!

We couldn't taste the unpasteurized cider we made, but they had a delicious jug of cider and all the kids got a glass. 

Yummy!

Then it was back outside to try the obstacle course.  Have I mentioned that the university goes all out for this field trip?  And that it's a blast!? 

Lastly, back on the hay wagon one last time to go to the pumpkin patch to choose a pumpkin.

Our co-op is growing and expanding with new friends and it's a blast getting to know everyone.  These two silly girls have been buddies since her mom and I started doing a Bible study together, but forging the bonds deeper through homeschooling has been a huge blessing.  Both of these blondies have a stubborn streak, sweet voices, and big hearts.

punkin' pickin'...got one, Mama!

It makes me so happy when Mike is able and willing to take PTO to come on field trips with us.  It doesn't always work out, but when it does we all have the most fun.  He's such a committed homeschool principal.

This little lady is also in ballet with Natalee, and we are enjoying getting to know her and her family!

Chelsie snagged a family picture for us!  Thanks, Chelsie!  First one in a long time, and in our matching B.L.I.S.S. Academy shirts, too (thanks, Nannie!). 

After the field trip we went to the park with friends for a picnic and to play. 

Last night I got a snapchat from a friend and she said "today was a great day."  Mike and I had just been talking about the same thing - what a truly fun day it was, surrounded by friends, our children, and the beauty God gives.  We are so thankful for the opportunity to homeschool and experience life with our kids everyday.  It's worth every sacrifice we've made to have these moments.