Best Zoo Trip Yet!

While we currently do not have a zoo membership, I did sign us up for the last Free Friday in February (this needs to be done 10 days ahead of time in hopes of getting a spot).  

However, I didn't know that I would be fighting shingles at the time.  Yes, shingles, something I deemed was an old person thing, yet I somehow found myself struggling with in my body. It was painful to even move. We still went, though, as we greatly miss doing family dates together.

Our first time seeing the rhinoceros exhibit.  In school, Zoe had been studding whether or not we should have zoos.  So she was not thrilled with the set up.

Perhaps it was the cool temps in the air or time of day, but this was the least crowded that I have ever been to the zoo.

Our favorite part, by far, was seeing this adorable, playful monkey.

We stayed to watch him for several minutes.

In seeing the girls put their hand on the window, he would shimmer down and even began licking the glass where Zoe's fingers were.

It was a pretty special experinece.

We, also, really loved the aquarium.

They each wanted their picture in the hole.

While the stadium seating was ropped off, my littles found their own place to enjoy the nature show.

Seeing Zoe's enjoyment of it was a joy to me.  I just couldn't help but think about how a couple of years ago, when she was really struggling with her eyesight, and not being able to see anything at the Charleston Aquarium.  

 That was a painful day for me to realize what she had been missing in the world (and it explained her reason for not liking the zoo, as she couldn't see anything).  Now with the help of her contacts and a successful round of eye therapy, the world is open back up for her.

Plus, I so enjoy seeing the Lord's many creatures and creativity!

There is a turtle under there somewhere.

The barn yard was up next, including some petting and feeding.

Ezra was a bit intimidated, but was encouraged by his sister. 

Apparently, Zoe has informed me that her spirit animal is the fox, so she was thrilled to take a solo photo with one.

We stayed until closing time, squeezing in a little more fun. 

The kids really wanted to cross the bridge over the train tracks to the other parking lot.  While I declined, at first, when we actually heard a train, I let them run for it.  Since there really wasn't anyone around it felt freeing and fun!

Despite me being in pain, my heart was so full after our trip.  Life has been so packed of work and survival, if feels, that it was so uplifting to be able to spend such time together.  Probably one of my most favorite zoo times yet!