Hogle Zoo 2012

Rachel and Joseph LOVE trains.  Doug LOVES trains.  So it was only natural that we started our adventure off by riding the train.



"What'cha doin' Dad?"


After that we were off to see the animals.


Isn't this baby elephant cute?!


The kids didn't really want anything to do with this metal elephant sculpture.  It periodically made sounds and squirted water.


Rachel was thrilled when she got to go on the carousel. Only an elephant would do.




My favorite animal is the elephant.  But, my favorite exhibit was the "Rocky Shores" exhibit.  I loved seeing the sea lions and polar bear up close.



The polar bear was absolutely mesmerizing.


He was swimming back and forth, and back and forth, and back and forth.






After swimming laps he paced his enclosure.


"Look Dad!  Giraffe!"



Rachel wanted a ride so we pretended we owned a double stroller.


What's next?  Joe's outfit will give you a clue.


"Tiger!"


What a beautiful cat.

We saw a lot of animals and had a wonderful time.  But it's time to take our monkeys home.


"Later."

Wheeler Farm (7/21/11)

Rachel, Joseph and I met up with one of my old college buddies at Wheeler Farm. Except for the decade and the gaggle of kids now at our side, it was as if we had only been apart for summer break.  It was fun to see our kids acting like old friends as well.


Cristy's 3 beautiful kids:


 

My buddies:



Rachel LOVES all things animal.  She was right at home.

Rachel wasn't afraid of anything.  So when this goose came around I wasn't sure what to do. 
 

It was approaching Rachel rapidly. 


My mind was locked in trying to decide whether it was friend or foe.
 

Just then Rachel tripped on a wayward root.  Her sudden movement scared the goose.
 

While Rachel recovered the goose ran over and pecked at our friend's clothes.   Hmmmm.  Foe.  In the end I was thankful for the root.  Our friend was scared but neither child was harmed. 
 

Thanks Cristy!  It was great to see you.  I hope it isn't a decade before we visit again.