Columbus Zoo

I don't even know where to begin with this place, it was so awesome. This was the coolest zoo we have ever seen. I took over 300 pictures that day an probably would have taken more if my camera battery had not died. Jack Hanna is the emeritus director and from what we have read, he really turned this place around. There is a lot of theming to the animal areas and the exhibits allow you to be closer to the animals than most zoos I have been to. Everything was exceptionally clean and most of the exhibits seemed new. They have a few rides in the park: boat ride, train, and a carousel. They also have a bigger ride area and a water park at the entrance to the zoo. I am not sure these few pictures do it justice, we can't wait to go back!

Newport Aquarium

I guess I should have posted these pictures with the ones from Johnny Rockets. We went to the aquarium right after eating lunch there. We have annual passes to the Newport Aquarium along with our zoo passes. It will be nice in the winter to have something fun to do indoors.

This is actually a pretty common sight with the alligators. They like to use the turtles as pillows. We did see a turtle trying to get out once, but he was quite unsuccessful.

The boys all love sitting in the windows and watching the sharks, rays, and fish swim by.

They have a new Frog Bog area. It is great because it has a small indoor play area for the kids to run around. They have frogs on display all through the tunnels in the play area, it is cool. Kol likes it so much, he has already decided that his science fair project is going to be about frogs.

Johnny Rockets

The boys and I had an impromptu lunch date at Johnny Rockets on our way to the Newport Aquarium. I forgot how stupid expensive Johnny Rockets is, but it was really fun!

This was also the day that Tate discovered french fries.

A little explanation on why Ry thought this was funny. He hates ketchup, it's wierd, but he thought it was hilarious to pretend like he was loading his plate with ketchup.

And, they still do the song and dance routine at this Johnny Rockets. If I recall, the song was Respect by Aretha.

An Evening at Kings Island

The best time to go to Kings Island is on a week day in the evening. We usually like to pick a rainy day because the crowds are smaller and it is a little cooler.

Marty, Kol, and Tate on the train. This is still one of Kol's favorites.

Me and Ry on Shake, Rattle, and Roll. It is one of the old school amusement park rides that spins high in the air. There are times when you could reach out touch the treetops.

Ry used to hate the carousel. But, now that Tate can ride it, it is a crowd favorite. There are only a few things Tate can ride, so it is fun to ride the carousel all together.

Reds Day at Kings Island

Okay, I know that I am WAY behind on my blogging. Reds day at Kings Island was back in June. So, I will try to start catching up. The boys and I went to Reds day, it was on a week day, so no daddy. :( We went to the question and answer session, which was amusing.

Mr. Redlegs and Gapper, the 2 Reds mascots.

The three cutest fans in the crowd.

The three Reds players that were at the session: David Weathers (pitcher), Brandon Phillips (2nd base), and Andy Phillips (1st base).

We rode a few rides before we left. I think Ry thinks he is too big for this ride now!

Tate never fails to make himself comfortable.