So, in May we went to the Memphis Zoo. And today, just as a spur-of-the-moment thing, we went again. This time, though, we kidnapped Dad from work along the way.
And WOW what a difference when those poor public school children are locked up behind school desks! Of course, it was midday by the time we arrived at the gate, but still...back in May, all of the end of school trips were apparently on our chosen visit day, LOL. Back then, there were a hundred busses and about a million kids walking around in groups of color coordinated school t-shirts! Ok, it was also a Tuesday when we went back in May. Tuesdays are Free Zoo Admission for Tennessee residents. And the weather was decent enough.
It was a zoo. 'Nuf said.
But this time, it was just a peaceful animal park :-) There wasn't a few scattered handfuls of folks there.
It was almost eerie the place was so empty.
And a lot of the animals were inside their areas, not outside in the heat and sunlight. They were soaking up the peace and quiet as well.
And folks were hanging out in the cafe...much to the enjoyment of the monkeys (let's not be a purist here....everything is a monkey...)
The bats were pretty active. Not that I could actually get much of a photo, but they are there...these were some smaller sized ones stopping for a drink. Some larger ones were hanging out up top on the fruit chains. And way too many to count were zipping back and forth.
And my flamingos. I just love the rich colors of these birds. Leigh-Ann said earlier in the day there were some actually in the water, swimming! I had no idea they swim. Swam? Swum?
And we have the obligatory face-in-the-animal-sign photos :-)
And camel rides. 
And a bear bath... He stayed put at the water fall end of the pool, while the others...
...played with sticks in the shaded end...
And yes...totally unplanned, but those are the same blue and orange dresses those two wore back in May. It's a large family, folks. Things like this just happen.
Look...we have a Dad there...
Beautiful.
Inside the viewing bubble for the seals. I think we're ready for 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea now.
Oh...another face-in-the-sign...
The Komodo area.
That's one big ol' turtle...
Piranha...he wasn't exactly petite either...
...and off we went, headed out grab dinner before dropping Dad back at the hotel to finish his work week, and we headed home. The dogs we totally thrilled to see our return after being gone all day. I don't think they have the same appreciation for our field trips as we do.
Our next Zoo trip will be in mid-October when the Zoo Boo evening events open. Hayrides, pumpkin painting, hay maze, and lots of special night time exhibits to view.
7 comments:
Looks like a great day! I love the Eagle picture!
Thanks for the lovely trip to the zoo! You got some great pics, & it looks like everyone had a great time! How nice that Dewey was able to surprise them all and spend a few hours at the zoo with all of you!
That looks like fun! I love going to the zoo when there is no one there. I actually like going in the winter!
Looks like y'all had a great time! I noticed that your children aren't wearing " plain clothes" in these pictures. I only ask as another mom who is somewhat dressing somewhat plain. And it can be hard at times. What was your decision to change if that isn't too personal to ask. I have been following your blog for several yearsand I ALWAYS enjoy your encouragement, wit,and humor!! Its so good to know there are real sisters in Christ out there.
Thank you for visiting :-)
Plain dressing...we do, and we don't. My biggest change came mainly from being the only...THE ONLY...family for miles, and hours away, who were in town in kapps, long dresses, aprons, broad falls, etc. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not the least bit concerned about "popular opinion" of others who see us out. We are who we are, and I answer to Christ for my dress actions, kwim? But it has felt very, very alone for a while now, and that moved my heart away from where I thought it should be in this. Dress isn't a salvation issue, I'm not saying that, but I KNEW why I dressed as I did, and lately, I felt my heart was empty in it. And the children...as they've gotten older, as family dynamics have changed with Dad being away from his leadership role here so much more, it became more of a stress to everyone to be so different in appearance.
I realize these seem such weak 'excuses' coming from me. I've lamented my lack of understanding over women who hold such strong convictions toward (anything) only to throw them away one day because they've been led a new direction....and here we are, long skirts, not so many dresses, simple scarves, no longer kapps, blue jeans and other regular clothing. I can't explain it. I still wear my dresses/aprons, or my skirts and aprons, every day. And always covered. That is still very much our belief. I've lightened the dress code toward skirts, but still modest on every level.
LOL...that cleared it up, heh?
Thank you for answering my questions. I know EXACTLY how it feels to be the only one around in a dress,apron,veils etc .etc.your reasons are very valid and at times I feel empty too.you made the right decision for your family too. God bless yall.
p.s. i think yall look beautiful!!
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