Koons petting zoo

Yesterday we were treated to a rare opportunity.  We got to see all kinds of animals up close and personal – thanks to a visit to the Koons petting zoo.   My friend Holly is an animal lover.  That’s to put it mildly.  She collects animals like the rest of us collect books, or CDs or Willow Tree figurines. 

Let’s see… I know I’m going to forget some things, but they have a large enclosed pen on their land next to their home that contains chickens, ducks, pot-bellied pigs, goats, emus, peacocks, a miniature horse, sheep.  Holly, you’ll have to comment on what I’m forgetting!

The boys were a little scared at times, but loved seeing the animals.  Coco the goat followed us around and as we looked around and would (inadvertently, I’m sure) brush up against the kids as we were holding them, which freaked them out.  Josh was with us and I’m glad now that he was because both of the boys wanted to be held the whole time.  On the way home, we asked the boys what their favorite animals were.  Jude said it was the sheep, Jett said the pigs and then snorted.  When we looked at the pictures I’d taken from our visit, Jett yelled out “Coco!” when he saw a picture of the goat – probably the animal that made the biggest impression on him!

Unfortunately, the visit wasn’t without tragedy.  You see, the Koons family hunting dog got loose and caught one of the chickens shortly after we arrived.  Keep in mind, all of these animals are pets.  Holly’s kids were devastated – understandably.  I don’t think our kids knew or understood what was going on when they saw the dog parading around with the chicken firmly clenched in its jaws.

After the boys had seen enough, Holly treated them to popsicles and gave us a tour of their cute country home.  We had a great time, Holly.  Thanks for the invite and the hospitality!

Holly, emu wrangler

a sampling of animals near the watering hole

the peacocks will be integrated into the rest of the pen after a year

Coco!

the prettiest creature by far – Holly’s daughter Dakota