reindeer

There is a reindeer ranch about 75 miles from home.  None of us had seen reindeer in person so we thought it would be a great excursion last Saturday while we celebrated our family Christmas.  The day was bright and sunny and pretty warm for December.  We started the morning at a nearby fast food place of course, everyone at our house had a big breakfast before we left, but still needed a fortifying snack.  AH drove the lead car at exactly the speed limit on the interstate which drove one of our sons crazy.  We arrived early so had to make another trip at another fast food place for another snack and let the kids play for a little while.  How many fast food restaurants are there in the US?  Off to the ranch.  Hardy's ranch just south of Rantoul, Il is colorful and charming.  The shops are cute and filled with all things Christmas.  We went out to see the reindeer and give them treats.  They are cute and gentle and will eat graham crackers or oats right out of you hand.  At the end of the season there isn't much to do outside.  I know in the fall they have a corn maze, wiener roasts and hay rides to keep you busy. On a personal note I probably would go back in the fall for some of the other activities, but wouldn't go just to see the reindeer.  We didn't eat in the cafe but every thing we saw was nice and well kept.  A great and economical way to spend a few hours with the family.