Kirkpatrick 4-H Farm Trip

On Thursday, February 25, 2010, we went on a homeschool field trip to the Kirkpatrick4-H farm in Yukon, OK. I should have posted these pictures earlier, but I had forgotten about them!!! These pictures were taken on Niah's camera because I had accidentally left mine behind. I had a moment of clarity today and remembered the pictures, so here's the news about our trip!

The kids where divided into 2 groups. One group did a zoology presentation which showcased different animals, while the other was a botany presentation and a take-home craft. The girls were thrilled that the first group we participated in was the zoology group AND that tortoises and turtles were presented!!! For those few people out there who might not be aware, WE are turtle lovers!!!

I was really proud of my kids for many reasons. First, they were all very well behaved. Second, they were able to answer several questions because we are currently studying these subjects in our school. Last but not least, I was proud of them because they were so cute!!!

The girls were definitely not afraid to touch the animals. Even Isaiah got to interact with the animals. At one point, the large tortoises were on the ground and Isaiah was walking around with them--until one of the tortoises PUSHED open the door and walked outside.

After the animal presentation, we participated in the botany demonstration. The girls got to see and touch some interested plants such as the cotton plant.

It was neat to see where cotton actually comes from and then to realize that cotton is used for so many things that we use on a daily basis.

After the classes, we went to the barn--"the stinky barn" per Kiahna. I do have to agree with Kiahna. It was REALLY stinky!!!

After that, we went on outside tour of the farm land. It was a beautiful walk. We probably walked at least a mile.

The first half of the trail, Kiahna stayed with me. Then I told her that she could go walk with the other little girls, and she ran off! She was so excited! With walking sticks in their hands, they danced and pranced along the trail.

It was exciting for the kids to be so close to the animals AND to be on the same side as them. I wonder if the animals were just as excited?

Overall we had a great time. The kids had a blast, and I enjoyed it, too! We would definitely do it again if we get the chance.

Children's Zoo Preview

Today the kids and I went with some friends to the members-only preview of the children's area at the Oklahoma City Zoo. I'm not a big fan of crowds, and it was a little too crowded for my taste.

The Explorikeet Adventure was Isaiah's favorite place. He loved the birds. He kept trying to grab them. The birds would land on you IF you stood still long enough OR if you had the nectar food for them.

The Barnyard was another favorite. There were donkeys, baby goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens. I don't think that the animals were prepared for the crowds either!!!

Aliya and Kiahna played "Bears" in the cave. Of course, they had to play the loud and obnoxious bear vs. the hibernating one !

The slide was another favorite. Overall the kids enjoyed the new children's zoo, but I think I will enjoy it when it isn't as crowded!

Thanks, Jolly, for sharing the day with us and for sharing some of your great pictures!

Fork It Over

When TJ comes home at night, we sit around the table and talk while he eats his dinner. Isaiah often joins us--especially when Daddy is eating something that Isaiah is interested in. We haven't really allowed him to have "real" utensils yet, but recently Isaiah just picked up his Daddy's fork and started using it with precision. I'm amazed at his determination to "do it the right way".

It's a good thing Isaiah is so cute, otherwise he probably would not get away with taking food off of Daddy's plate! I almost lost a finger once trying to sneak a bite from my husband's plate--it's definitely dangerous and risky. Apparently, Isaiah is fearless. . .or just hungry.