The 16th annual Country Fun Day—also known as Farm Day—at the Grode Farm was a huge success! Loving School students and staff spent the day outside soaking up sunshine, feeding animals, enjoying delicious food and experiencing the joys of farm life with a wonderful family.
For over a decade, CHS kids have enjoyed this special day thanks to the incredible generosity of Ralph and Sylvia Grode and their family of 11 children and their spouses. Each year, the Grodes gather for a family reunion at John and Connie Grode’s farm east of Sioux Falls. Following their reunion, many family members stay to help host Country Fun Day, working together to provide a meaningful and memorable experience for our students.
This year, the kiddos loved the petting zoo with kittens, rabbits, chickens, ducks and miniature goats. They also enjoyed a tractor-trailer ride around the property, where they could feed and pet the family’s horse, donkey, llama, cow and goats.
“It’s always heartwarming to see the excitement and happiness on the children’s faces,” said Assistant Director of Schools Erin Schons. “Many of them form new connections with animals, some even overcome their fears by spending the day feeding horses, cows, and goats—who are more than happy to accept corn chips from eager little hands!”
The Grode family goes above and beyond to keep the day lively and engaging. In addition to the animals and a massive playset, this year’s event featured a professional balloon artist and a station for temporary face and body tattoos.
“From start to finish, there’s never a dull moment,” said Erin. “It’s a day our kids remember and talk about long after it’s over.”
Enjoy a few photos from this special day!