Field Trip to the Farm

Last Friday we had the privilege of having Walker's third grade class come and visit our farm.  We spent the week frantically pulling weeds, mowing grass, cleaning the garage and getting everything presentable.  We had over 2 inches of rain last week and had to make some alternate plans to keep everyone out of the mud.  Friday was predicted to have off and on showers, so we had to plan plenty of indoor activities, just in case.  The day ended up being cool but full of beautiful sunshine.  

We started off the day with a tour of the farm.  Walker introduced his classmates to the chickens and told them all about how he cares for them.  Of course we spent time talking about the different cows that we have here at the farm.  We then went up to the equipment barn to show them all the hay equipment and explain the hay making process.  Just as I stepped into the barn and started talking, a bird pooped right on my head.  I guess the birds weren't interested in what I had to say. 

Next, we headed back to the garage for some activities.  We started off with making butter from Belle's milk.  The kids learned about the differences in raw milk and store bought milk.  While the food processor was working its magic on the butter, we talked about the bees.  We showed the class the different parts of the super and talked about the process of extracting the honey.  Isaac modeled the bee suit for everyone.  Once the butter was done churning, I showed them how to rinse and salt it.  Everyone got a sample of fresh butter on a saltine cracker.  You should have heard the oohs and aahs!  

The next project was making chapstick with beeswax and other oils.  I had a mixture all mixed up and melted for the kids to use.  They were each able to use a dropper to fill their own tube of chapstick to take home.  They were very excited about their farm souvenir.  

The final planned activity was a scavenger hunt around the farm.  The kids had a list of questions such as the model number of the tractor, how many fence posts, what food items can be produced on this farm, etc.  Even when the kids seemed to be more interested in the cats, I was amazed at how much information they were retaining.  

The afternoon ended with lunch on the patio followed by free time.  The kids enjoyed turns on the trampoline and the swing.  

Walker had a great time showing off the farm to his classmates.  I think they all enjoyed themselves too.  Sometimes we get so rapped up in all the work, that we forget to step back and really enjoy all that God has given us.  It was refreshing for us to see our farm in the eyes of others and remember how really blessed we are to live here.