Sunday 26 May 2013

A Fun Day Out Meeting Ben, Jerry and the Animal Crew

This is the first time that I have linked up to Coombe Mill’s Country Kids. I've wanted to link up a post for a long time but either time or rain has put paid to any pursuits worth sharing. However, this week Tink and I joined our Toddler group on a trip to one of our nearby animal parks. It was our last session before half term and the rain stayed away; almost, so we could enjoy being outside with the wildlife.

My eldest Belle has always loved visiting animal parks and it looks like Tink is set to follow in her footsteps. They both have a great respect for animals but do not fear them. Maybe it’s because both my hubby and I had horses of our own as kids and access to other animals that its second nature to encourage our own children to take a keen interest in them. I notice a lot of adults who want their kids to feed or stroke the animals but do not model or show them how. I feel it’s so important to make sure we show our kids how to interact with animals which makes it safe for all and also a positive experience.
Tink had a fabulous time on our trip out. Some of the others we were with were drawn in by the climbing frame and slide. Not Tink. She was all for the animals and adored feeding Ben and Jerry the Alpacas. We had to go back several times just to make sure that they didn't want any more grass to eat ! They were very cute and exceptionally gentle with her. I’m not sure if they spit like Llamas but I’m sure if you got on the wrong side of them they could be persuaded !


There were enough animals on show to keep little Tink occupied; pigs, lambs, cows, ponies, chickens, a rather aggressive turkey (there’s always one isn't there?!), and some rather cute guinea pigs and rabbits.

We managed to have our snack outside with our friends as the rain threatened but to its credit it did stay away. We then walked the lovely gardens down to the lake, past the main building which connects to the college they have onsite. 

It was lovely to let the kids run free, playing with leaves, fallen magnolia petals and just exploring their surroundings. I’m so pleased that we live in a rural setting, but even more pleased that we have many choices like this close to where we live.


I was actually here last Sunday when I ran the Race for Life in honour of my Mum. You can read more about that day here. It actually felt a bit weird at first coming back a few days later and not jogging around the lake. At least this time the rain stayed away for the duration.


Tink finished her visit by finding a very small but perfectly formed cuddly bunny to take home with her. I so wish they didn't make the exit through their gift shop. It’s such a distraction isn't it? They are crafty these places.
 
Mummy & Tink 
It truly was a lovely way to finish off the term with our lovely group of friends. Last year we went on a visit to see the baby lambs, this year we enjoyed one of our local animal parks. Great fun was had by all, some much needed fresh air was taken in, with great company including the gorgeous animals and some excess energy was burnt off in the process. What could be better? Perfect.


Country Kids from Coombe Mill Family Farm Holidays Cornwall



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12 comments:

  1. I'm glad you've managed to come over and join us at Country Kids. What a lovely post, and what a great day you all had with so many things to do and see. I'm sure you're aware that I have the same hands-on attitude with regards to animals and children, it's something we encourage here on the farm with all of our visitors. Thanks again for sharing your lovely photos of your day out.

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    1. Hi Fiona - Thanks for popping across to say "Hi" xx It's been so nice to finally link up with you guys. I hear so much positive about Coombe Mill. We tend to holiday in Hayle at one of the caravan parks there. Maybe we'll have to pop over and say a proper "hi" whilst on our holidays. I'm aiming to link up again this week too fingers crossed xx

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  2. We love visiting animals and especially getting to feed them if not a bit wary as well! We definitely try to remind him to be gentle. A great way to spend time with friends!

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    1. Animals and children seem to make a magical combination. That sense of common intrigue and interest in each other along with an unspoken knowing between them. Thanks for stopping by x

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  3. Looks like it was a great day. We like farm parks too - even though we're on a farm anyway!

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    1. It was a lovely day and as it stayed dry for once, it was a real bonus. Hoping to pop across to see some baby signets this week weather permitting. Thanks so much for popping by x

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  4. What a lovely day out! Your kids clearly enjoyed the animals (what child doesn't?!) and the pictures are just gorgeous. Where was it?

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    1. Tink thoroughly enjoyed herself. Belle unfortunately was at school, much to her disappointment :0( This was at Kingston Mauward, near Dorchester. It's lovely and the grounds are very pretty xx

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  5. Hello, lovely blog! Am now following and look forward to reading more posts!

    Hels XX

    http://www.babybeautifulmummy.blogspot.co.uk/

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    1. Hi Hels - Aww thank you for your lovely comment. Glad you have enjoyed the blog so far. Fingers crossed you keep liking what you read & thanks for following. Following you on Google+ xx

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  6. What a wonderful day out!!

    Thank you for linking with The Weekend Blog Hop

    Hope to see you again tomorrow.

    Laura x x x

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    1. Hi Laura - Thanks for popping by xx Love your w/e blog hop. What a fab idea. Will definitely be stopping by again with more time to visit some lovely blogs x

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