A HOT day at the pumpkin patch

The second weekend in October seemed the perfect time for a trip to an apple orchard. That is, until we learned unless you wanted to drive what seemed like forever we had missed this year's pick. I know - it always seems so crazy that orchards no longer have apples to pick this early in October! Still itching for some fall fun, we decided an excursion to a pumpkin patch/petting zoo (and other carnivalesque craziness) would fit the bill. Despite the HOT (80+) temps, we headed out with our friends the Chatburn's for what proved to be a fun day (if not exactly prototypically fall). Here are our summaries from the day -

S: HOT! Oh, and OUCH... that is, my forearms after holding a heavy, screaming toddler while she does her business in a steaming HOT port-o-potty. I think there's a market for a kiddie version of these dreaded boxes.
R: Overwhelming. We left the city for this crowd? And did I mention it was hot?!
E: Two words: PONY RIDE!
A: HOT! And mmmm... yummy grass.

Hooray, we're here! Now can I go ride a pony?!?!

This front row view of the pig races is all well & good, but what about riding that pony (seriously, she was relentless)!?

Annikah *clearly* enjoys her first pig races.

After a 30 minute wait, I STIIILLLLL want to ride that pony! I'm next! I'm next!

A mixture of pride & sheer bliss as she independently rides the pony (Honestly, we were shocked she didn't bail... and then didn't require Rye walk alongside her. This focused, relaxed joy we've only also seen on swings or when riding in the kid's seat of a bike. Maybe we need a pony!?).

Annikah's almost as thrilled about the pony ride. Did I mention it was HOT!?

The heat didn't seem to bother Elynor & Keegan.

It's difficult to pin A down for a photo when there are pumpkins to climb.

The best sisters shot we got. Did I mention it was HOT?!

If only the shopping cart was large enough to fit everyone on the trek back to the car.