Pumpkin Patch & Afternoon Tea

Now that the weather has become colder and the winter coats have come out of the wardrobe, there is nothing better to do than embrace the spooky season by pumpkin picking. On Sunday 22nd October, five me&dee families, all of whom had been affected by cancer headed to Swarkestone Garden Centre to do just that.
Each me&dee child was kitted out with the essentials for a successful pumpkin picking session…a wheelbarrow and a Halloween headband.

The families were able to pick the perfect pumpkin to carve whilst also trying their hand at traditional games such as a bean bag toss and hoopla. Ayva who is 6 decided that Hope Elephant needed to join in the fun too, so took her for a ride around the patch in a wheelbarrow. We are sure that Hope loved it!

Once the families had picked their pumpkins it was time for an all-important group photo. Luckily, Mark Corns was on hand with his camera to capture lots of smiles and some spooky faces.

Once the wheelbarrows were parked up and Hope was retrieved from her new favourite mode of transport, it was time for the spooky trail! Charlotte and Jane who were looking after the families ensured that no children or adults were caught in any spider’s webs. The families had great fun exploring and when they reached the end, each child was presented with a pumpkin carving kit to take home.

Pumpkin picking and navigating a spooky trail are very hard work, so it was time for tea! The families were able to sit together and enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea. Each child was given an activity pack to enjoy at the table. After lots of lovely scones and some debate over the Halloween crossword it was nearly time for the families to head home. However, there was just enough time for all the children to play outside, whilst the adults watched on.

One last photo from Mark and it was time to go home. Armed with their pumpkins, carving kits and muddy wellies, the families made their way across the carpark to head home having had a lovely time and with lots of new friends too.