We toured the zoo first while the water park was still closed for the morning. Soren liked the bears and could have stared for hours, I believe. Perhaps he was contemplating the sheer inhumanity of cooping two large black bears together in such a small, cramped space. Or perhaps he just liked their rustic bear-breath smell. Or, more likely, he just plain couldn't get enough of their mass and presence.
Aubrey had opportunity to learn all about the red fox in multiple languages. We feel she understood every word of the dialogue in Shoshone. Finally, she has found a language that makes sense.
After trekking back to our cars to retrieve lunch (and change soggy bottoms), we were able to drive in to the park to eat on the grass. The Skousen clan was nice to share with Aubrey; she apparently thought their picnic spread was much more appetizing. Here are some pics of Aubs and Soren sharing graham crackers and checking out a table bench.
The swim park was surprising well received by the toddlers, considering they were both well overdue for some quality nap time. I quite enjoyed the laziest-of-lazy rivers--this one could not meander any slower. I was also enjoying myself quite a bit in the pool with the whole Skousen and Keddington crew when we were forced to exit the pool for a five minute "safety check." I think Richard was on to something when he realized the "safety check" could quite possibly be a ploy for all swimmers to make a trip to the snack bar.
Another key highlight of the trip was seeing Soren befriend a college-aged woman on a nearby towel. As she read a textbook, Soren went to sit with her. She welcomed him congenially. Then, a while later when we could not spot the boy, we found him sitting amongst the same girl and her friend.
After seeing the Winns and chasing naked Aubrey around the grassy area, we all packed up for home. What a fun day! I am excited to visit the Skousens again on Spud Day.
