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.
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.
If
you've enjoyed what you've read and would like to follow The Mad Mummy Musings
you can subscribe to new posts by email, Bloglovin, Google+, and you can also follow
me on Twitter or catch up with what’s happening on my Facebook page. I look
forward to seeing you there. Until next time xx
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.
ReplyDeleteHi 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
DeleteWe 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!
ReplyDeleteAnimals 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
DeleteLooks like it was a great day. We like farm parks too - even though we're on a farm anyway!
ReplyDeleteIt 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
DeleteWhat a lovely day out! Your kids clearly enjoyed the animals (what child doesn't?!) and the pictures are just gorgeous. Where was it?
ReplyDeleteTink 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
DeleteHello, lovely blog! Am now following and look forward to reading more posts!
ReplyDeleteHels XX
http://www.babybeautifulmummy.blogspot.co.uk/
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
DeleteWhat a wonderful day out!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for linking with The Weekend Blog Hop
Hope to see you again tomorrow.
Laura x x x
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
Delete