Bottle Calves

Some of my fondest memories as a child were spending time on farms and interacting with animals. Though my family didn't live on a farm several of my friends did. I took advantage of every opportunity and spent time on those farms.

I want Marcus to understand and appreciate farms, even if we live in a big city.

After chatting with my friend Kati, and her mom, Patti, we made a date to show Marcus some bottle calves. I will be the first to tell you, my excitement about spending time with calves far exceeded Marcus'.

If only they didn't get so big! How cute are these two? My younger self would have wanted to pack up this little guy and girl and take them home with me.

Introductions went fairly well. Marcus wasn't so sure what this was all about, but he was willing to check out all the action.

Oh my gosh, isn't it just the cutest how the little calf is suckling Kati's hand? Gahhh! I want one.

Marcus was cautiously curious.

We did manage to get some feeding time in with the calves.

Left: Marcus in the background, not too sure about all this business.
Top right: I let the little guy suckle my fingers. Seriously, can they come home with me?

I'm not sure what we said or did, but Marcus decided he'd give the feedings a go, too.

Marcus still needs a little practice keeping the bottle held up, but he had the right idea.

Though most of my time was spent trying to keep Marcus out of the fresh manure patches, I loved watching him experience something so different from our daily routine.

Maybe, just maybe I have a little farmer on my hands!

Kati and Patti, thank you so much for allowing us the opportunity to spend time with the calves. We (I) LOVED it!