Lahlum Farm Field Trip Recap

Sorry, there are no pics.   I remembered to bring out mv camera and put it in the kitchen … there it stayed!

The planning started in early April, between myself and FMCHE field trip coordinator & good friend, Sarah G.  May is so busy with sacraments, graduations, farm work, etc, but we finally settled on Wednesday, May 12.  We had no idea the weather would be so very wet in May!  But, thanks to many prayers, our day was dry … the yard was muddy and full of puddles, but it didn’t rain during the field trip. 

Families started arriving at 10:30am & everyone had arrived by 11am.  We started out with two large group visits to the chick pens.  Every child who wanted to hold a chick – did – and those who wanted to pet – did.  Back into the house and it was time to get the food organized.  I am so thankful that each family brought a dish to round out our potluck and the moms chipped in to get the meal ready by 12:15pm.  The kids and moms gathered for a meal prayer, then women & small children went through the line.  Young ladies were next and the young men went last, as is the custom in our group. 

After lunch, the kids could participate in the mini-stepping stone craft or just play.  I sure wish I’d have remembered to at least take a picture of the stepping stones … each was unique.  At about 2pm, the kids separated into two groups and headed outside for a tour of the farmyard and animals.  The group of boys hiked around in the trees and even got in a game of hide ‘n’ seek tag.  Meanwhile, the moms were invited to view our home.

Much visiting occurred throughout the day, which passed way too quickly, IMHO.   At 3pm families started preparing to leave.  The kids were given a snack and belongings were gathered (well, most were gathered!  I have a few items to bring to town on my next visit). 

Things to remember about the day:

1. 9 families, including ours = 39 kids and 10 adults (my husband stayed home yesterday)

2. 1 football casualty = 1 very muddy pair of pants and shoes.  He’s thankful his thoughtful and resourceful mother brought a change for the trip home.

3. Only 1 van semi-stuck = at least three boys very happy to help push it out!  Ya know that probably made their day, my friend (who will remain nameless)!

4. The speed limit on Broadway in Fargo is only 25mph!

5. Gackle is about 40 miles WEST of Marion.  I didn’t know that before yesterday.

6. If the stones/rocks in your mini-stepping stones get a little covered with cement/water on the drive back home, a damp sponge (or toothbrush) will clean them up and make them look pretty again.

7. It’s okay to take off school – completely – the next day to rest!  But, bless my kids, they knew there were some subjects they could do without their syllabus, so they worked a little anyway.