Wild Party

Today the zoo held a holiday party for members. There was a slight lull between rain storms (down to a light drizzle), so we ventured out. The snake and turtle exhibits (indoors!) were a hit. 

Vincent played at being a raccoon. The zoo photographer was also taking photos of this, and David gave the okay for Vince's picture to be used if anything turned out well. So check the zoo website for shots of our wild one.

We got there too late to see the porcupine, but got to meet Cotton the white opossum. I didn't know opossums came in white. Turns out baby white opossums rarely grow up into big white opossums. Being rather easy to spot in the wild, they end up as snacks. Cotton spent most of his time on stage with his back to the audience, snuffling in corners and ignoring the peanut butter treats the keeper offered.

Amidst much jingling of bells, Santa made an appearance. He did not drive the Gator in - he strolled in and took a seat on the Gator. The kids sat beside him, in the driver's seat, for gift lists and photos. Other people's kids, that is. Ours preferred to watch from a distance.

There was also a ton of food and drinks (Zoe liked the "warm juice" - hot apple cider), some crafts, and the usual charms of the flamingos, goats and monkeys. One of the best parts for me was running into a number of familiar faces. I love the small town feeling, and also the sense that we're starting to get to know folks who like to do the same things with their families that we do. It was another great community event for us!