Historic Oak View Park

We've spent a lot of time with our new friends the Collins Family recently.  This past weekend we went hiking at Umstead State Park, about 45 min. north of our new home.  The kids ran ahead enjoying the freedom and the beauty of the fall colors.  Well most of the kids, as Miss Amber thought it was perfect setting for a nap on Daddy's back.  We adults enjoyed some adult conversation and getting to know each other more.

Then Amanda and I had signed up with a homeschool group we belong to for a field trip to go Pecan picking at Historic Oak Park.  Strangely, as the date approached we ended up being the only ones still going but that too worked out well.  It gave our kids more time to get acquainted and more freedom to explore the park at our own pace.

Our timing was perfect as we both arrived at the same time.

We had brought Sarge with us and I'm not sure who was more confused - Sarge or the rather large goats that greeted us upon entry.  Maybe someday we'll have goats like these ourselves someday.

We toured the historic buildings and even got a chance to pick a little cotton before heading to pick pecans.  Amber fearlessly trudged through the fields ahead of everyone.

After picking our bag of pecans, we decided to have a picnic lunch.

Revived with food, the children explored the "barn" and then the costume kitchen inside, while Amanda and I discussed school, books and life.  We had no idea what the day had in store but were very pleased with the fun and friendship it produced.