A Jaunt to Regions Unknown

So, I had one of those rare moments to spend some one-on-one time with one of the kids. Landon had been dropped off at preschool and I had just finished putting Avery down for an early nap. I walked out and saw my gimpy T-Bird watching TV all by himself. I decided to leave Avery in the capable hands of our live-in Au pair (Erin), and head out on an impromptu excellent adventure to explore the sights with Tristan. 15 minutes later we were off, with a drink for Tristan, water bottle for Mom, cell phone just in case, two matchbox cars (both pink), animal crackers, and a stroller to hold all the essentials. (so much for spur-of-moment stuff anymore) Sorry, no pics for this blog. The camera was not deemed essential. (Proof that I have not been blogging long)

Keep in mind, we live in the country here folks, so the many examples of local wildlife are not exaggerated. Also keep in mind that Tristan is a city boy, and animal sightings, even of the farm variety, are not a common occurrence to the lad.

Several blocks from our domicile is a farm that houses a few Shetland ponies. Those are the miniature horses for any other city folk ignorant of the fauna lingo.

M: Oooh, look T-Bird, look at those tiny horses.

T: Where? (They were literally 5 feet from his nose)

M: (patiently) Right there, son. See.

T: Yep. Those aren't horsies. (matter-of-a-factly)

M: They aren't? What are they?

T: I dunno.

I decided not to argue with my two year old, and we were on our way again. Next, I pointed out a crop of corn. He informed me that the tall stalks were not corn either. He must think I am a complete imbecile.

Turning down a side road, we encountered a bull. He was quit an impressive sight. Massively huge, all black-complete with long pointy horns. While I was engrossed (or grossed out-he stunk) in the bull, Tristan informed me that there were two grasshoppers "sitting on each other" on the footrest of his stroller. Thankfully, that was as far as that conversation went after I knocked them off. (whew)

We saw a small dog. It barked and Tristan said that it's barking hurt his ears. I told him that the doggie was probably trying to say hello. His response-"Um, I don't fink (think) so." OK.

The last street we explored had a field with two horses grazing in it. Our approach was noisy, so they began heading over to check us out before we got to them. They reached midfield and must have decided we were not worth their time, because they paused and would come no further. I clicked my tongue to entice them over, but to no avail. As I was clicking away, Tristan joined in with his own version of the noise. I am not sure what he was doing, but the sound was similar to a wet piece of chewing gum. I assume that's exactly what he was going for because he then called out "Come here horses, we have gum." in a very persuasive, sing-songy voice. Luckily, he didn't seem too disappointed that his bribe did not work, and shortly thereafter he informed me that he was done with our walk. Obediently, I steered for home. I was left pondering just who is parenting who in our house for the duration of our walk.

All in all, it was an excellent adventure. I knew, however, that my day's adventures had just begun when I came home to this.....

Avery climbing up the slide-by herself!


Put down the camera, Mom and save the baby! (The things
will do for the sake of blogging)