#331 - Don't Like Empty Zoos

Buggy Time

We took Charlotte on a walk today. It was our last day and our last outing with this little one... for a long time...

She didn't see much, while she slept inside the buggy.

Zoo Trip

Charlie didn't see much when we went to the zoo the other day, either. When she's older, that "buggy" will become a stroller and she'll see all the animals.

But that wasn't the point. She wasn't there to see the animals... she was less than 4 weeks old. It was just a wonderful way for Charlie to get some fresh air and for her family to enjoy some tiny bit of normal.

Pandemic Zoo

Well it wasn't really that normal. Usually the zoo on a pretty day, would be jammed. But there were restrictions, which is why we felt safe going.

Tickets were limited. We got the latest reservation possible. We were the last in and we strolled slowly. It felt like we owned the zoo. I'll remember how peaceful and calm it felt to wander down the 1-way path, encountering close to no one. Maybe it's good Charlotte wasn't a 3-year-old, wondering why the carousel was closed and why she couldn't go in the petting zoo. 

What to See?

There were also lots of animals that we couldn't see. Some were hibernating.

Some were moved, because of renovation projects. But we saw wonderful totem poles and blue sky and gorgeous, towering pines!

We adults took in the spring sunshine, when we stepped out of the shade. I loved watching Scott chatting with his sister and staring and his baby niece. I loved remembering when they were both kids and adored zoos trips.

Towards the end of our visit, we saw a few big favorites (giraffes and elephants) and encountered a few other zoo guests, who had slowed down to enjoy. They looked like nice families, all in masks and enjoying the day, just like us. For a moment, it made me miss other people. I like observing animals and I kind of love people watching at the zoo, too. This is an odd time.

First Experience

But mostly I loved experiencing Charlotte's first zoo trip. She won't remember it, but I will.