Zoo bday

Shadd turns one!!! We had reserved our first visit to the zoo for this special occasion. We wanted him to be able to enjoy himself and he sure did.

Although we might have enjoyed the day more than Shadd ever could. He seemed intrigued by all the new animals and sometimes a bit scared. His reactions were priceless 

JBZ ain't scared of no tiger! 

Everything turned brighter once Shadd was taken out of his stroller. He just walked and walked and walked always with the biggest grin on his face. We had to take turns holding his hand, there was only so much our backs could handle. 

We were so happy to watch him spend time with grandma, especially since we don't see her often. 

This mountain lion was fascinated with little Shadd. He kept following him all around the cage. We didn't notice at first but once we did, Travis made Shadd walk all around the cage just to see the mountain lion's reaction. It was quite a spectacle, people started gathering to watch. Some would say "he wants your son for lunch" others would assume "it's because of his bright orange shirt". Finally, a zoo keeper came to check what was going on and told us the mountain lion was only 7 months old and probably "wanted to play with Shadd" . Oh sure sure, that's exactly why.

Shadd found a stick and would not put it down. Boys will be boys. 

We went in the birds cage. Whitney would have loved this cage, there were birds everywhere. They seemed to not mind us being in there space either. Even Shadd got to feed them, I would be concerned with being so close to a baby if I were a bird. Travis on the other hand, had to feed the giant threatening looking bird who was not part of the feeding cage. Again, boys will be boys. 

I grew up spending most of my time indoors and never getting close to animals. Because of it, I am embarrassingly very scared when it comes to animals of any kind. I don't want that kind of experience for my boy. Maybe exposing him to animals at a young age will help him not be afraid of them so much. 

We really enjoyed our time at the zoo and we are glad we saved our visit for this special day.

Doesn't it look like he is mimicking an elephant with his finger in his mouth? 

Happy birthday Shadd, we love you!