Zoo .

[Prepare for picture overload.]

||Day Four||
Today I went to the zoo. And it.. was.. awesome.
Now I've been to the zoo many, many, many times (thanks again, mom, for the membership pass), but this time was especially perfect.
First of all it was the most GORGEOUS day, which was very fitting seeing as it was my mother's birthday today and she deserves the very best weather. Secondly, today we got to have an exclusive members-only preview of the new orangutan exhibit at the Indianapolis Zoo. Despite this "exclusive" deal, the entire building was madness; strollers left and right, people pushing their way through to see an orangutan crawl along the hanging ropes, cameras every which way. But it was so worth it. 

(From Top to Bottom: Lucy, Nicky, Katy, Azy)

There is also this enormous structure that circles the building that allows for the orangutans to climb and walk about it and will eventually become a cable car "ride" for people to be up close to the apes.

It was just such a neat experience, and I can't wait to go back and see it after the official opening. Hopefully at a time when there are less toddlers and double-wide strollers.

And now for some of my favorite pictures from the day!

Clearly I love the meerkats. They are so pensive and adorable!

And I found these stones in the gift shop and couldn't resist taking a picture. Next time I go to the zoo I will definitely be bringing some of these home.

After the zoo, feeling very drained from a day in the sun, we stopped for ice cream on the drive home.
It was really the best way to wrap up the day before coming home, crashing on my bed, and thoroughly filtering through my zoo pictures. 

And lastly, here is my little orangutan friend that I got from the gift shop.

So if you're feeling like a trip to Indianapolis, stop by the zoo and definitely check out this amazing exhibit. I would also suggest to go either early morning or early evening, so as to dodge the "kid crowd". And also sunscreen, wear plenty of sunscreen.

♥K