Lions and tigers and bears... OH MY!

Today we made plans with Aunt Liz to drive up to Jacksonville to take a trip to the zoo. Unfortunately, we had already made those plans before we knew it was going to be below 30 degrees when we left home - and that it wouldn't get above 40 or so for the whole time we were there! So, we got the girls bundled up in hats, gloves, and all the most winter-y clothes they own.

When we got there we had to practice our roaring to prepare for all the animal encounters we were planning. 

First, we saw the lions. Well, this metal lion at least. (We did see real lions later, although I couldn't get any pictures of them, thanks to the silly protective glass between us and them!) 

What's really funny is that all the statues have these signs next to them:

I'm sure in July that's a valid warning, but it seemed somewhat unnecessary today!

We rode on a little train around part of the zoo, and saw elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, all kinds of cool animals. It was so cold, though, that they were all a little sluggish... 

There was a neat koi pond, and we spent a good deal of time looking at the huge fish. 

The komodo dragon apparently doesn't like the cold weather, so didn't make an appearance, but the girls seemed content with playing on the statue. 

There was a "Wild Animals Carousel" that seems to have been the highlight of the day. It moved pretty fast so Harvey had a hard time getting good pictures, but Lela rode on the zebra, with Liz's help, and Resli rode on the elk with me behind her just in case.

After the ride was over we discovered this great gator with an orange and blue saddle. Too bad we didn't get to ride on him, but we did stop for a CHOMP moment.

The flamingos were very noisy and also quite pretty. Although I was somewhat disheartened to learn that they're fed special food in zoos to help maintain their color. They looked a little artificial to me... 

We were looking forward to seeing some gorillas and apes, but they were too cold to go outside also. So Harvey and the girls had to do the next best thing: imitations.

Lastly, we stopped for a family portrait on our way out. 

The best part is that both Resli and Lela slept on the ride home - a virtually unheard of event anymore. All that sun and cold and wind and excitement must have just worn them out!