We had a lot going on this spring break. We had a loose idea of what we wanted to do. Steve and I have been wanting to go to Hobbs Cabin with the kids for a while. The whole week at the cabin was open, so it was a done deal. Steve had work, Hannah and Rachel had work, I had a previously planned painting class that I was attending. Hannah is the co-director of a play at the Murfreesboro Center of the Arts. We had a lot going on, so we decided to just stay 2 days and 1 night.
Well, Steve procrastinated, I didn't have to say anything... he beat himself up enough when he found that Hobbs Cabin had been booked for the rest of spring break. Steve had come across and Airbnb that was interesting in Ooltewah though. I am really glad that he did!!! The two days that we spent at Hidden Hills Farm was fun, insightful, and relaxing.
The campsite that we stayed at was on a 500 acre horse farm. We were welcomed to help with as many or as little of the chores on the farm that we wanted to. The fire was already started when we got to camp, firewood was provided, there is an outhouse (with toilet paper) on site, and we were able to park right next to camp! Knowing that we didn't have to pack in any food was relaxing in and of itself.
We were greeted by Mr. Hills and then we set up our camp. We decided to hike up to the ridge to see the views and Steve wanted to fly his drone. I think the dogs appreciated the exercise. When we got back to camp, we cooked over the fire and ate before dark so we could head to the main farmhouse for chores. The kids helped feed a calf, and Steve and I learned about the process of buying, feeding, and various other farm animal tidbits that we were interested in. When we got back to camp that night, we made smores and banana boats! We played scrabble (Alisa won :-P) and went to bed.
The next morning we woke up slow, made our breakfast, then walked down to milk some cows. I was a kid the last time I was that close to a cow. My great-uncle Johnny would milk Bessie two handed and occasionally squirt some milk into the barn cats mouths. He showed us how it worked but I never was able to milk a cow. I was more excited about milking than the kids were I think. The Hills' were so patient with us and all the questions we had for them! The things that we learned from them changed the overall plan that we have for the farm when we finally get on our land.
I think the thing that I loved most about this trip is that it started a yearning in the kids to be on the farm. I don't think they knew what to expect as Steve and I have been dreaming and making all these plans. Honestly, I think they thought that I was crazy. I know they were looking forward to the kittens and bunnies, but they had no idea what being on a farm was like until this trip.
Really they still don't know, at least they don't know about all the work they will have to be helping me with. We'll keep that a secret for a little while longer :-D I loved this trip and I can not wait until we can go back again.
“It’s opener, out there, in the wide, open air.”
