The Zoo

So this past weekend we decided to go down to New Orleans to take the kids to the zoo. My first plan was just to go into Baton Rouge to the festival going on downtown, but when we thought about it, the kids would probably have more fun at the zoo in New Orleans. So, we packed the truck up and headed down there. It was exciting to think of all the animals the boys would get to see. I asked Dakota before we left what animal he was wanting to really see and he had said the giraffe. Of course, I was a little shocked at first because I had never thought he knew what a giraffe was. We got to New Orleans and of course, we couldn't remember where we had to go. So, we started from Canal street and drove down Magazine street until we found the zoo. Good thing Cliff looked at the map before we left. :)

As soon as we got into the zoo we were greeted with the flamingo's. We made a quick trip through one of the exhibits and quickly realized we needed to head back to the entrance for an overpriced water and something to eat. On our way through the next round, we saw a large tortoise being walked through the one area. The zoo was more than the zoo. They have a small water park and several play areas for kids. I was amazed at it all. The last visit I had to this zoo was when Cliff n I first started dating.. and I don't remember seeing all those there then.. but then again we had no kids.

We found the cool little sprinkler areas that were such a relief with the heat we were in.. and of course, I never once went through one with the boys.. lol.. Me being the one that cannot handle the heat decided to opt out on this cool little treat, but rather take the picture of the boys and their daddy enjoy the mist of water. Still not quite sure why I chose this.. lol..

We made our way through the animals stopping and looking and explaining to Dakota what the animal was. He was pretty interested. Now, Kyan had other plans. Every time I let him out of the stroller so he could stretch his little legs, he decided he wanted to go the way that we came instead of follow where we were heading. It was an endless game of catch and carry throughout the zoo, but he still had fun.

Finally we found the giraffes. It was our lucky day, The zoo was allowing the public to feed the giraffes. Cliff picked up Dakota and asked him if he wanted to feed one and of course he said he wanted to. So, Dakota picked up some lettuce and Cliff held Dakota until the giraffe came and ate his lettuce. The giraffe managed to get his little food as well as lick Dakota's hand. When Dakota felt the giraffe's tongue, he quickly responded by saying, "We. Go. Now!" The highlight of our trip was this. It was priceless and I am more than proud to say that not only did he get to see what he wanted to see, but he also had the opportunity to feed them. :)
The zoo was a great day and not long after we got into the car, both boys were out cold. It had been a great day with many memories to hold onto. We will return there again and hopefully we will get another chance to feed another animal.