Adventures at the Zoo

All of you know well by now that the Denver Zoo is one of our favorite places. We go in spurts. Occasionally, we go for a long time in between visits ("long" meaning one month or so), and sometimes we go every week. Hey, if you're in the mood for a pleasant walk outside (or run, as B likes to do sometimes), you might as well see some exotic animals along the way. After one such hiatus, we're back on track. In the past three weeks, we have been to the zoo three times: with Daddy, with Aunt Jill and Uncle Andrew, and with some dear friends. 

On our adventure with Daddy. The wagon is a big hit. (Truth be told: Mommy kind of misses the double stroller -- lots more trunk space -- but they sure look cute together, and we just pile the gear high.) 

On the train, which has become the favorite ride as of late. ("Thomas the Tank Engine" and "The Dinosaur Train" are favorite TV shows for both boys.) 

Next up: Our visit with Aunt Jill and Uncle Andrew. Here, Uncle Andrew and Ellis are viewing the lions.  

Blanden was trying to hold Ellis in the wagon, but it looked a little more like a headlock than a hug. As is typical with siblings, most of the time Ellis adores Blanden's attention, and sometimes he finds it annoying. (And vice versa.)

Back on the train -- with someone else's cute baby peeking out from behind.  

Ellis and Aunt Jill share a moment (apparently, a very serious one according to Ellis). 

Blanden riding high on Uncle Andrew's shoulders.  

Okay, so these aren't actually from the zoo (although brews at the zoo might be kind of nice) ... 

Just a couple more pictures from Jill and Andrew's visit.  

And, finally, with friends on our visit this morning. We managed to snap a couple of quick photos before this cool, cloudy day turned into a cold, rainy one.  

Shortly after the carousel ride (which Ellis really doesn't like -- he was happy to sit on the elephant before it moved), it began to rain ... and rain ... and RAIN. As a NOLS and Manito-wish alum, I am ashamed to admit that I got caught without any rain gear whatsoever at the farthest end of the zoo from decent covered shelter. After waiting it out in the restroom for a moment, my friend and I made a mad dash for the nearest restaurant ("mad dash" meaning gasping for air as we lugged a wagon full of three toddlers at a snail's pace), which was, of course, back near the entrance, while B laughed, E cried, and S just took it all in. The two of us arrived soaking wet, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that because the kiddos were packed like sardines into the wagon, basically only their hoods were wet and their inner layers were dry. We warmed up, had a quick lunch, and headed home. This was the only time we have ever been at the zoo and not seen the giraffes, but Blanden understood. He excitedly told Daddy all about how it "totally rained" on us and Mommy got him wet several times throughout the rest of the day. Well, we always say we are going on an adventure, and we sure got one today!