Riverbanks Zoo

The other weekend we decided to take a day trip to Columbia and visit the Riverbanks Zoo.  We had been to our zoo here in Greenville a few times already this year and the boys (and Mom) were getting a little bored with it.  So, off we went...

First stop, posing with the lions

The train ride, always a favorite (clearly!)

Milking the "cow" in the barn

Feeding the goats.  They were hilarious!  K was brave and at least tried to feed them (although most of it the goats knocked on the ground).  M was happy to watch from a distance.

Perhaps the best part of the day was the new ropes course the zoo added over the winter.  I didn't think K was tall enough or brave enough to do it but as soon as he saw it, he had made his mind up.  Luckily, the height limit was without an adult so as long as Daddy was willing to come along, he was good to go.  It was AMAZING and they both had a great time!!!!  I can't wait to try it out myself...eventually.  :) 

A couple more shots to get the full effect of how awesome it was and how brave K had to be. 

This one was especially impressive!

And then sometimes it was just easier (for both) to let Daddy push.

Some of us were too little, but he didn't mind.  :)

We decided to go visit his favorite animal, the elephants, while we waited.

Ahhhh, nothin' like relaxing on a tortoise.

We took Max's new tricycle instead of a stroller.  He obviously agreed with the decision.  I can't tell you how many people stared and/or commented about this thing.  It was a HIT!!!!

On the way down to Columbia, we had a little trouble with the Explorer. We decided to take it in for a full assessment of what needed to be done. After 7 years, we knew it might be quite an extensive list. We also knew that it was just a matter of time before we would have to get a larger vehicle with #3 on the way but I was hoping to keep my truck as looooong as possible.  However, when the costs outweigh the value, we were forced to bite the bullet now.  Papa and Daddy did some research and looking around and here is what they found.  I have to admit, it is incredibly convenient and has tons of usable space.  Oh, and obviously the boys LOVE it!!!!!  :)