We started out visiting the animal barns. The boys were infactuated with the rabbits. Seeing a breed that was all white with big black eyes and what looked like eyeliner...beautiful rabbits indeed. Then we moved onto the birds (chickens, doves, geese, ducks, turkeys, and even a few pigeons). It was funny as we walked by a goose honking non-stop, Austin and Owen immediately put their hands over their ears complaining of how loud and ANNOYING it was. I reminded them that this is very similar to how they sound when they keep talking and talking and talking or screaming, yelling and some more screaming and yelling. They told me, "whatever mom", like I don't know what I'm talking about.
We saw goats and sheep. Observed a sheep getting sheared and got an educational lesson on the wool and what happens to it (bringing back memories of when I was in 8th grade "Homesetters" class with Mr. Bunton). I shared with them how that wool was cleaned and made into yarn to make all sorts of things. The boys got to see and feel the difference between the different types of wool and lanolin consistencies. We then went to the birthing barn. A baby lamb had been born earlier that morning. Tyler's first question was, "Mom, what is all that hanging out of the sheep's butt?" Biology 101 lesson was given. Thankfully, Austin and Owen didn't notice "all that stuff" and were more interested in the lambs and piglets in other pens. Actually, Owen was enjoying the hand sanitizer stations more than anything...I coudn't complain, atleast his hands and face were really sanitized!!
We visited the petting zoo and took a ride on the motor boats. And of course we had to spend time going though the four big buildings with exhibits and booths. Tyler and Austin were quick to get all the free candy and "goodie bags" that they could. We also stopped and watched the pig races...(a first for me and the boys). As we were leaving the option of ice cream or cotton candy was given. Ice Cream it was (unanimous vote) but mom still wanted cotton candy. We stopped at a McDonalds on the way out of Hutchinson for the ice cream sundaes and it was consumed before we even left city limits. Owen and Austin then decided to make great use of their spoons (mind you, the spoons still had remnants of melted ice cream and hot fudge on them) by having a sword fight in the backseat of the car. What can you say, they are definitely boys and I decided there was no point in even telling them no as they were going to do it anyway.
All in all, we had a great day and created memories that will last a lifetime. I enjoyed spending time with the boys and this will be something that they will be talking about for awhile. Enjoy the pictures below.
