This weekend, we took Alyssa to two different farms to see some cows and horses. Yes, there are farms in the middle of big cities in Texas!
She had seen them in her books many times, and I made the sounds for her to know what they sound like. Plus, some of her toys make some odd sounding animal sounds. However, I figured what would put things into perspective better than taking her to see some real animals.
When she was 11 months old, she rode a pony, but I don't think she grasped the concept at that age. A couple of months ago, we took her near some cows, but she wouldn't even look at them.
She's now 16 months old, and I thought this would be fun!!
The Cows were first. There was only one by the fence, but I thought that was good enough. Within 2 minutes, there were 5 and then there were about 20 cows all right there in under 10 minutes. It's like they had never seen a person before, much less a child.
I could not get them to moooo no matter how many times I moo'd at them. Oh well...
Next, we took her to see some horses. The horses were much prettier than the cows and we got a little closer to them. One even neighed at one of the other horses and Alyssa thought that was very cool.
Here are some more pictures of our advanture that day. All in all, we're talking less than an hour, but it sure wore her out, she took a very long nap that day!
We'll probably have to stop by more often since she had so much fun... If you're ever trying to think of a cheap activity for your kids, this should be on your list!


We are lucky to have a couple of friends that own horse property here in the city. One even has chickens, dogs and bunnies as well. So, we are extremely lucky to get a close up view of these beautiful creatures. Unfortunately, the housing boom of the early 21st century moved the local dairy farms out further from civilization. So, we don't get to see the cows up close anymore. Sounds like your daughter had a blast (and you, too)!
Oh, I have to do this with our 19-month-old son even when I drive by a horse (rarely) he "freaks" out he gets so excited. LOL. Great idea. ~Rita
16 months old? I'm confused.
Heather, Not many of the farms disappearing from here. Even Owens Sausage stayed put right in the middle of Richardson, TX.
Rita, He would love it!
Greg, Why confused? She was 1 year in November, which would be 12 months, and now it's 4 months later. 12 + 4 = 16, right?
What great pictures (and what an adorable baby girl!). My children love animals...the zoo is one of our favorite places. My parents live in West Tx and whenever we visit my kids love to go to "the ranch" to see the cows, horses, and goats! Thanks for sharing.
Hi Donna... all the pictures are cute, but the one of Alyssa at the fence with the cows staring at her is priceless! What a nice family day!
Jeanna, We haven't been to the zoo yet. I figured she was still too young to really enjoy it, and though Dallas and Fort Worth each have their own zoo, Austin does not, and people tell me I have to drive to San Antonio... what timing is that!
Steve, LOL, they looked at her like she was an appetizer!
Preston is older? I'm losing it, thought it was the other way around.
Alyssa turned 1 a week before Preston turned 2. Remember? That's why you wouldn't come into town for her party?
Hi Donna, How cute and what about those purple shoes.... I love baby shoes!! Looks like Alyssa enjoyed her day...look out Mom a pony may be on her Christmas list this year!
We have lots of cows and horses over here also and with NO ZONING they often tend to be right in the middle of the city.
Donna...you're not in Dallas anymore! Hope the transition is going well!
She is truly a pretty girl. You guys are so blessed. Enjoy them while they are little. They grow up fast.
Teresa, Those shoes were a JCP special of ONLY $3.50!!
Marchel, I used to tell people to turn at the goats, and if they hit the cows they went to far. People didn't get it until they got to my house.
Russell, Nope, not going well at all... I met one of Bee Cave's finest today!! I offered to help him buy or sell a home, so he only gave me a warning!
Terry, Thanks so much!