Diamond D-light!

We just returned from our wonderful trip to the Diamond D Ranch.  

Who knew a working ranch could be so much fun?!?  

I certainly didn't know what to expect, and was pleasantly surprised.

We started the morning off with a wild ride on, The Drum Roll.  Many of us were nervous, but after being securely strapped in, cries of delight could be heard from within the swirling, burly ball.  A few of our friends opted out of the experience, but all that partook in the opportunity did not regret it!

Then it was off to hear about the animals on the ranch.  Here we met the very gentle, Boris, who did not protest when we surrounded and patted him with great vigor and joy.  Thank you Boris, for being so agreeable! 

From there, we dashed to the wagon and piled aboard for a tour of the property.  We got the chance to feed baby goats who eagerly lapped up the food we offered.  So cute!  Then it was back on the wagon to the cow pasture.  From a distance the cows glanced at us uninterested...but pull out a bucket of unusual, pellet-like food and they literally come charging for a snack.  This fellow had quite a system...keep the long, alien tongue to the side so that 52 kids will throw pellets directly down his throat with ease!  It was a very efficient system. He ate more than any other cow!

The Nature Walk was a pleasant break from the hectic events of the early morning.  Before venturing through the woods we were prepped with an example of poison ivy, and reviewed as a group the chant, "If you see three, let it be!"  Words to live by!  We also received the chance to touch the antlers of a white-tailed deer.  They are made from calcium and were surprisingly dense.

At the conclusion of our walk, we stumbled upon a serene looking pond.  Our guide handed us food for the "fish."  Looking into the water we noticed nothing but minnows and were feeling slightly underwhelmed.  On the count of three and after a gentle toss...boy were we shocked, as the water erupted into a frenzy of gigantic catfish thrashing and feasting with delight.  We could not contain our excitement.  Never before has such joy been experienced from watching fish eat!

The day was coming to a close and we were approaching actual departure time, but you can't leave a ranch without riding a horse!  Our final stop was the Pony Ride station.  Somehow the members of the ranch managed to subdue and harness these wild stallions...just kidding.  We were lucky enough to ride twelve of the sweetest, most gentle horses in Jacksonville.  None of us were afraid or nervous.  With horses named Hershey, Chocolate, Lucky, Goofy, and Mr. Goodbar, why would we be?!?  Check us out...we look like real cowboys and cowgirls!!!  Yeehaw!

Did you enjoy the trip?  Let us know what parts were your favorite!  Take the poll!!!