by Bruce Malkin
It was October 29th, two days before Halloween. The skies
were clear, and the fragrance of Fall was everywhere. Youth
Counselors volunteers drove fourteen children served by the
Jana Lee Village Center to McDonalds. They had lunch and
then headed for Cox Farms thanks to a contribution from the
Kiwanis Club of Mt. Vernon.
At Cox Farm they took turns petting the farm animals. One goat became quite enamored with one of the children, and the little boy was happy to oblige when asked to pose with his new found friend. One Youth Counselor, Mr. Sturge, who was raised on a farm shared his fond memories of farm life with the group. The children climbed haystacks and explored the hay tunnel. There was a Halloween ride, a horse and carriage ride, castles, rope games, and a giant slide to experience. The galloping slide that seemed to go on forever caused the most squeals. The rope game which required a combination of fitness and finesse reduced children to peals of roaring laughter.
As tired as they all looked the children could have continued playing all day. Youth Counselors were able to assemble the group for a pre-departure session. Children checked to make sure they had their pumpkins. They talked about their experience, had a snack, and climbed into the cars.
