The zoo...

I have always loved going to the zoo. Living three hours away as a kid, we didn't go very often, but I adored it every time. Being so close to those animals you usually only read about in books was amazing. As soon as we had Max, Dan and I became big fans of having an annual zoo membership. My mom has given us our membership for Christmas the last couple of years, and we work hard to get good use out of it. It really is a fabulous present for which we are thankful.

One of the best parts of having a membership is the fact that we don't have to see every animal every time, because we know we will be back soon. Each boy gets to choose 2 things that they want to see, and then we just see whatever else we have time for or is on the way to those chosen exhibits. On Tuesday we decided to take advantage of the early morning sunshine and hit the zoo for a couple of hours. It really was the perfect day and the perfect time. When we got there, we were one of 7 cars in the parking lot and were able to have long, personal visits with several of our favorite animal friends. And as we were leaving, the full parking lot and hungry boys confirmed we timed it all just right!

The Sun Bear has always been one of Max's favorites, and he spent a lot of time climbing up and down the log while the boys marveled at his claws.

Visiting my favorite, the orangutans

How could you not just love that face?! He's my favorite guy at the whole zoo.

The cheetah, on his way to check us out.

Luke always loves the goats. Maybe for a city kid, farm animals are just as exciting?!

The new juvenile giraffe - the boys were so excited to see him out.

Then we got to watch this hornbill eat this mouse...

Luke's top choice every time - the polar bears.

There's also an animatronic dinosaur "exhibit" right now - and Max is in love.

Is it any surprise that the Gigantosaurus is his favorite?

A wonderful time was had by all, and we already are trying to figure out how to fit in another visit this summer.