last year, we checked out a pick-your-own pumpkin location at trinity tree farm in issaquah. the place was easy to get to, and we had a great time picking out our pumpkins, sipping cider, and launching pumpkins in the pumpkin slingshot. this year, we decided to try the pumpkin patch at oxbow farm, where we have our CSA. side note: it's pretty amazing to me that in 45 minutes, you can be out in the country, given that seattle is such a large, metropolitan area.
since the pumpkin patch at oxbow is at a working farm, the experience was a bit different in some respects, but equally fun, like last year's. our kids were looking forward to going back and playing in the "living playground." the gourd tunnel was a hit, again, and they had fun being able to roam and explore all the parts of the kids' farm.
added bonus (as part of their oxtober u-pick pumpkin patch season): hayrides around the farm and the house o' hay for the kids (and some adults, who shall remain nameless for their privacy and safety). the hayride was a fun treat for the kids, and a great opportunity to take a look at the actual farm. it was so cool to see the rows of collards and chard that we just got in our box the day before...literally farm-to-table, right?
i think the kids were amazed by the house o' hay. they loved climbing on, jumping off, and climbing through the stacked bales of hay. i love the simplicity behind the hay castle, and how it offers the kids opportunities for creative play and free exploration. it was super cool, and it was hard to pry them away when it was time to pick our pumpkins.
unlike the u-pick pumpkin "patch" at trinity tree farm, the pumpkin patch at oxbow was an actual pumpkin patch. the pumpkins were already detached, but we did have to wade through rows of pumpkin vines. and the nice drizzle of rain, made for some muddy pumpkins, and muddy hands. this was legit pumpkin picking. ha!
and what better way to end the farm day with some wet, slippery and muddy pumpkin slinging with the pumpkin sling shot.
what a day well spent. i loved watching all the kids play together (in the mud, even!). i loved being able to experience simple, outdoor pleasures with the people i love. and i loved being able to meet some of the people who have spent so much time and effort growing and tending to the food that nourishes my family. we even got to meet the gal who packs our box every week!
the muddy boots, filthy clothes, and dirt-covered hands were so worth the sweet memories made that day at the pumpkin patch.
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