The Zoo!

Camille had her first trip the the NC Zoo last weekend. We met Pops, Marla, and Michael there for a day full of heat, walking, and fun!

Nick and I hadn't been to the zoo since we were kids...... my how much has changed! There are so many exhibits!

Most of the picture credit goes to Pops, as I wasn't as quick with the photo ops!

Here are Camille and Marla checking out the cute black bear. 

 Pretty flamingos!

Camille loved viewing the water animals. I can't remember if this was a seal or an otter, but it sure was putting on a show! Camille thought it was funny to watch him swim circles. 

We got some good views of the polar bear, who had just returned back to NC, though I think Camille enjoyed the polar bear cave more than the actual polar bear! She wouldn't go in without company, lucky me!

Did I mention how much walking we did?! I should have tracked it, but it was several miles for sure. Camille would walk for awhile, rest her legs while riding in the stroller, then ask for Michael to carry her on his shoulders. 

How cute is this little bee? This was a bee exhibit that featured a hive, honeycomb and all, that the kids could  go in and explore. 

The zoo even has a carousel. After our lunch we made sure Camille got a turn. I don't know who had more fun riding, Camille or Michael. 

This picture didn't come through as cute as on my phone, but this was in line for the 4D Ice Age movie clip. It wasn't too thrilling for the adults, but Camille was laughing out loud and squealing the entire time. That reaction alone made it all worth it!

Next up, the new dinosaur exhibit. How lifelike are these dinosaurs? Camille was a bit hesitant at first, but once she learned they weren't real, she warmed right up. She actually told us this was her favorite animal at the zoo! Ha!

Time for the elephants... these were my favorite as we arrived right in the middle of feeding time. The zoo keeper was feeding the elephants sweet potatoes and carrots. Quite the healthy snack!

Then Camille got to see the lions, which she had been anticipating. The lions were enjoying a nap in the sun, so Camille opted to turn her attention to the lion statue instead.

What a great, long day we had. Camille fell asleep on the walk back and Michael was in the gift shop, but we still attempted a family photo.

We had such a great time and hope to return next year!

Memorial Day 2013

I had been counting down to Memorial Day for quite some time.... mostly because I needed a day off work and a long weekend! The Cox family certainly made the most of our time off and headed to Buffalo Lake for some time with the family and relaxation.

Camille got some time with her cousin Haley too who was down for the weekend!

The temperatures weren't as warm as they've been recently, and the water hadn't quite warmed up, but that didn't stop Camille from wanting to get in the lake! Camille and Daddy lasted about 30 minutes before the teeth chattering took hold.

It was warm enough for a few boat rides and baby pool time though!

Once we got home from the lake on Monday, I wanted an excuse to put off packing for my trip to NYC, so I took Camille to the park for some more play time. While she loves the swings and slides, this time she opted to sit in the rocking chairs and "just relax and talk mommy." She is a girl after my own heart!