A Visit to Young's Dairy

In an effort to satisfy LB's desire to "see my milk come from a cow" and "to squeeze a cow" we drove about 45 minutes down the road to Young's Jersey Dairy. I had actually put it on our Summer Fun List before this interest in cow's milk developed so it was something I was eager to do too. We drive past it every time we go to D's parents' house but had yet to actually stop and visit. So I spontaneously made the decision to go one morning and I'm glad we did. Sadly, LB did not get to "squeeze a cow" but he got to squeeze a pretend cow. At least he got an idea of what it's like but he still needs to "see the milk." Clearly,  I've got more researching to do.

Despite that small disappointment, we had a fantastic time. I called D's parents on the way and they were able to meet us there and spend some time with LB.  Young's was a perfect place for a kid LB's age. He got to see lots goats, including some baby ones, and they had food you could feed them as well. He was a little tentative about that but did eventually work up the nerve. That was kind of the theme of the visit. One of the highlights when we were exploring the barn was seeing a goat pee. Then LB almost rolled over with excitement when the pig and goat "peed at the same time!" Boys. 

He mooed at a pretend cow and was a good sport about my need to take his picture once every 3 minutes. He got to sit on some big tractors and there was a crop duster that was flying around every now and then, which provided a lot of excitement.

One of his favorite activities was the little train ride. The first time he asked me to ride in it with him, which I fully expected. I barely fit but we made it work. As we were going along and getting a cool tour of the farm, he tried to steer the wheel but couldn't because my knees were in the way. He declared, "Mommy, you are too big for this. Next time I do it all by myself." I wasn't sure if he actually would but as soon as we got back he kicked me out and happily went by himself. And he did it 3 more times. He would wave to me and then off they went for about 5 minutes before returning back to where we could see him. I was proud of him for doing it.

There was a kids area with a bounce house, some big slides and a sandbox. LB got really into the slide in the bounce house. Once again, he was nervous at first but conquered his fear and then he couldn't get enough. I was impressed that he was able to climb up all on his own. 

Of course, a trip to Young's isn't complete without having some of their delicious ice cream. I got a vanilla cone since that is his favorite and we shared it. I have to admit it was some of the best vanilla ice cream I've ever had. LB was happy about it too.

It was really a great morning. If you are in the area, then I highly recommend making the drive. LB was passed out in the car within 5 minutes. A sure sign of a successful morning! 

And the quest to "squeeze a cow" continues.