Like any place new, we weren't sure what to expect, but once we turned into the driveway, we immediately felt like we were transported to someplace other than Arizona. It had this quaint garden/farm feel, with lush trees and moist, black dirt--just like something out of a Steinbeck novel. From the little I read about this place, a guy started it on his own and the entire property is made of compost, which is why they are able to grow so many hearty veggies.
We were a little unsure of what to do first, since most of the things I read said it was a Farmer's Market, but really, it's a vegetable farm that you can walk through on paths. We explored a bit on the trails and Aliyah approved. She pretty much approves any activity if it includes being outside. I love that she is so happy to be outdoors. I hope she keeps that mentality for the rest of her life.
Aliyah had fun capturing the attention of each passerby that she could make eye contact with, as well as chasing Sebastian around the soft, dirt paths. Yup, just like a Steinbeck novel. Minus all that depression era and heavy decision making theme stuff.
If you know Aliyah, then you know that she has these moments of utter independence. In those moments she knows what she wants (well, I she thinks she know what she wants), and like most parents of a toddler, if I can, I ride it out if it doesn't coincide with what I want.
And then there are moments like this, where she takes my hand and all her mannerisms show me that she knows the comfort and safety that Sebastian and I provide her every day.
These moments, are by far some of the best.
After we walked the paths, we made our way back to the little lodge that held the produce and baked goods. Sebastian found some herbs to cook with, we grabbed some honey and bought a bag of the sweetest apples I've tasted in a long time. They reminded me of my Grandpa & Grandma Kramer's apple tree outside of their house in Adrian, Minnesota.
Aliyah bit into the apple with no reservation and loved it. This girl loves a good piece of fruit, and this Momma is glad. So far, she's been an easy child to feed healthy food to, with her favorite foods being mostly fruits. Now if only I can keep this going as she gets older. Not likely (how can I expect her to eat this healthy for the rest of her life when I don't eat nearly as well as I should). But for now, I relish in seeing her little hands hold her prize, and the delight on her face when she bites into something sweet and nutritious.
All in all it was a fun little trip and we're excited to go back soon and see what other seasonal surprises we can find.
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