This Is The (Greatest) Place!!!

 This week we were able to go to This is the Place state park, with a field trip group. Like last year, it was so, so fun and we stayed for nearly six hours. Michele and crew were able to come with us, so the kids got some fabulous time with these five cousins. And I got to be with Michele all day!!

We took our time at each spot, pretty much following the kids lead as far as how long to spend in each area. They loved the pioneer school, and half the kids even stayed extra long to have "real" school with all the volunteer pioneer children who work at the park. The kids learned about old fashioned discipline, and Michele and I are thinking we ought to modernize the practices again!! Sitting on the stool in front of the class wearing the "DUNCE" hat, getting "the paddle", and having to stand with your nose against the wall, holding two books behind your back on open palms. 

The petting farm was a hit. Note: The deer is not a part of the petting farm, but was running wild in the park. 

 The little wooden village playground was a favorite spot. Could have gone there and called it good and they would have been happy. 

 The big pilgrim ship is still just as cool as ever. Ellie dressed as a pioneer for the day. Way to get in the spirit Ell.

 Panning for gold is the tippy top of the list for most of the kids. They found lots of the shiny stuff this year, and we went to the town bank to turn it in for candy.

 Jaida and Ali are just about as cute and funny as two little sisters come! I LOVE these girls! 

All the kids made a pioneer craft or two. There were pioneer dolls, leather work, arrow head necklaces, and spinning button games. 

Awesome view while the kids were on the little train ride.

 And about the weather....it was so GREAT!! We were worried because it was supposed to be in the 100's. But for the first couple of hours, and the last hour there was cloud coverage and a perfect breeze and it was so perfect!! Maybe even a few raindrops! Interesting fact....the day we went last year was almost the exact same weather! Hotter than hot when the sun came out......but most of the day was overcast and breezy and rainy and so perfect!! Lisa B. planned the field trip and man does she ever know how to pick the days!!! Thanks Lisa!! Check out these pictures on the train. 2011 and 2012.....just after the short hot, sunny spell. Storms are rolling in from the west, the breeze is picking up, and the view was spectacular!!

Until next year at the park!