Zoo

It just wouldn't be summer without a family trip to the Hogle Zoo! Brian took Friday, July 5 off and we thought it would be an awesome day to go. It actually wasn't too hot or too crowded, so it was perfect. We stopped at Brian's parents house to bring Lorraine with us. Arden gave us a 2 hour head start and then he joined us there too. Even though a third of the zoo is under construction, including the train, there was still lots to see and do. Elliott likes the carousel, but doesn't like the animals moving up and down, so this stationary giraffe is perfect for him!

But his favorite are the benches on the carousel, and Grandma went with him.

 Grandma and Grandpa enjoying the zoo with us. 

There is a temporary Lego exhibit at the zoo and there are several Lego animals built around. These gorilla and orangutan stands are made of Legos too.

 It was so fun, we even got Brian to pose. Also, there were no lines and that helped too!

 But this is the cutest monkey ever (if if orangutans aren't monkeys!)

And of course the Rhino picture, except I just noticed you can't even see the rhino. Oh well, at least you can see us. 

 Elliott flapping his wings. 

The bird show is always a must-see! We stood in line in the shade and got to sit about 4 rows back. At the beginning, they invited the kids down to dance with the salmon-crested cockatoo (I think). Elliott just jumped right down there and boogied along dancing like crazy and was the last one to leave the stage and return to his seat. It was a highlight! 

We also saw the polar bear swimming around in his pool and got to see a turtle, snake and tarantula up close. We spent about 4 hours exploring and enjoying the zoo. And if we don't make it again until next year when the new exhibit opens up, that will be just fine with us.