Not really sure how or why it started, but Simon’s birthday is often spent on an adventure of some sort. Maybe it’s him; of all of my children, Simon is the one to most appreciate a good day trip. (And that’s saying a lot, since I have a lot of kids who like to hit the trails.) Maybe it’s the timing; the day after Christmas is almost always warm and clear and perfect for being outside. Or maybe it’s us; after so many days at home, together, maybe it just feels nice to maintain the togetherness, but take it somewhere else for a few hours.
At any rate, we go, and we do.
This year, we went to the zoo.
It’s been four years since we’ve visited a zoo. And to be honest, we haven’t had much push to go. The first time we hit the zoo nearest us, it was decidedly underwhelming. A good portion seemed to be under renovation. That was a bummer. Likely the biggest factor, though, was years and years spent calling the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle our “local zoo.” Woodland Park is amazing. Before that, we were nearest Zoo Atlanta. Those are pretty darn big shoes to fill. The zoo here just felt rinky dink and old, poorly laid out, and none too impressive in the collections department.
I don’t know whether it was us or them, but something has clearly shifted. Our day at the zoo was phenomenal. We walked away talking about the fabulous reptile and amphibian house, and loved that a large portion of the zoo has an Asian flair. 
Best of all, the birthday boy had a blast. The reptiles were his favorites, hands down. He was delighted at the presence of a reticulated python, and the Gila Monster was a highlight, as well. We heard cranes trumpet, a tiger growl, and watched some rather fascinating gibbons for quite a bit longer than was reasonable for most people, I think.
It was Alice’s first visit to a zoo, and we were shocked that she opted for the stroller the whole afternoon. Her personality never fails to catch me off guard. I’m so used to babies who would much rather be on me 24/7. And at home, that’s very much how she is. But out and about she likes to be able to see well, and also have her own little bubble of space. From her perch in the stroller, she happily took in anything and everything… right up until it made noise. Then, all bets were off. Thankfully, she has a host of older siblings were eagerly filled her in on what she was seeing.
Mary Hannah was able to join us for the first hour of our tour, making the day even more special for Simon. At one point, I saw her lined up at a display and felt myself smiling at the realization that I’ve been going to the zoo with her for well over two decades. Once upon a time, it was her in the stroller. And then, not quite a decade ago, it was Simon. Oh, time doesn’t slow down. But I’m so happy for moments like these at the zoo, where I can watch my family drinking in the world and simply drink it all in. It was a beautiful day for so many reasons. Being together sure didn’t hurt.