Zoo with Cousins...Second Cousins!

Aunt Lola called this morning. She had all three of her grand kids and didn't want to sit at home. They were on their way to the Zoo and invited Charles and I to join them. I slathered on some make-up, packed a few snacks and drinks in the diaper bag, and headed out the door. Aunt Christy caught up with us later and then Stephanie and Carissa made it over in time to join us at the Zoo's "Plaza Beastro" the newly remodeled snack bar with an expanded menu. We had a great time with cousins and enjoyed lunch with everyone. It will be one of the last times we get to have fun with PJ and Brookelyn because they are moving to Orlando, Florida where their dad has a job teaching auto mechanics.



We're excited Paul has a job he loves but will miss having them in town for impromptu get togethers and family holiday activities. But...we know God is good and will take care of them all those miles away. He sure has made it clear that's the place He wants them...at least for now. Steph and the kids will be leaving in just a few weeks to join Paul who has been there since March. Sounds like they're in a good school district, have a nice rental, and (most importantly) are about 10 miles from both the airport and Disney World. They even have an extra bedroom (very important information for us visitors) and a fenced yard for their dog Kate.





Anyway...some pictures from our day at the zoo:

A security guard told Aunt Lola that this is the naughty giraffe that sneaks down into the ditch that separates the giraffes' exhibit from the visitors. It loves to eat things it shouldn't like branches and popcorn. It's a smart animal and knows not to beg for snacks when the security staff is in sight!

I've said before how the giraffe feeding station is my favorite spot at the Zoo. Lola had never been there when they were open, so of course we had to feed the giraffes. Brookelyn (pictured below) really enjoyed it and I don't think any of the younger kids were afraid.

Aunt Christy finally arrived. We met her at the front gate then headed to the Asian farm. Charles loved the sheep and goats. Here he is hugging an adorable baby sheep.

Aunt Lola with the grandchildren. From left to right: PJ (Paul IV), Brookelyn, Lola, and Elena. Before long there will be another one added to this group. PJ is excited to have another boy in the family!

After the Walls left Aunt Christy, Charles, and I did some more sightseeing. Charles wanted to sit with the orangutan.

As with many things, Charles had to give hugs and kisses to the monkey!