Mesker Park Zoo 2010

On Saturday, the Smith family once again took advantage of USI's Annual Alumni Day at the Zoo at Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville. This year was doubly exciting, as it was Hudson's first foray into the jungle! (Technically, he did tag along last year from within the womb, but I suppose we can't count that!) Mamaw and Papaw were luckily able to go with us again, especially since Erik was golfing that day and was unable to attend. It's always a positive experience when the adults outnumber the children. Am I right?

Although our main reason for attending this event is the "petting zoo" that USI hosts, we nevertheless took time to stop at Amazonia, one of Ava's favorite features. This year, she became our unofficial tour guide, keeping us on schedule and pointing out things she amazingly recalled from last year. She certainly shares Papaw's interest in all things animal. Here they share a moment in Amazonia, checking out a toucan.

Apparently zoogoers are supposed to photograph the animals (go figure!), but as I reviewed my shots at the end of the day I realized most of my subjects were my own two little animals! I can't help it! As much as I adore the zoo, it's even more fulfilling to watch my children experiencing it for themselves. Indeed, it didn't take Hudson long to figure out for himself that the zoo was FUN! He was all smiles throughout the day.

After Amazonia, it was off to the USI tent for some close encounters, followed by snacks and rests. This year, Ava was a seasoned pro at petting the animals. As you can see, she was highly intrigued with the lizard.

Once Hudson saw his sister getting into the action, he didn't want to be left out! In fact, he took one look at the baby alligator and couldn't touch it fast enough. Okay, so I barely managed a picture of the little creature, but I swear I can feel the excitement pulsing out from the backs of my little creatures' heads!

Perhaps the highlight of our trip, however, came awhile after the USI animal encounters. We always stop to visit with the zebras and giraffes, but usually have to admire them from a distance. This year, we met a rather hungry giraffe who felt the grass near our feet was quite a tasty snack! This meant that we were able to get closer than ever, and he was so friendly that both Ava and Hudson could touch his velvet face!

Of course, after several hours at the zoo, everyone was starting to feel a bit batty! It was truly another magical experience for everyone, but we were ultimately lured away by the call of the wild known as hunger (straight to Cracker Barrel) on our way home. In all, it was a fabulous trip with wonderful weather, animated animals, and tickled kiddos. It doesn't get any better than that.