Mommy Diaries: Our trip to the zoo

Who doesn't love a zoo? Especially one that is really well done. The three of us made a trip to the San Antonio zoo this past weekend, so Lillie could see all the animals she talks about in person instead of on paper or on TV. Some of her favorite signs are for monkey, bear and elephant. And, we were so happy that this zoo had it all.

Living in Austin, I forget that this city isn't as big as I think it is. We have a zoo, but its basically an animal rescue and isn't the greatest. Quite sad actually. Most of the animals come from bad situations and are there to make a recovery. Good deeds for the community, not that great of an experience for a toddler.

We decided the hour drive to San Antonio was well worth the trip once we arrived. The zoo map showed there were bears, lions, monkeys, rhinos and even giraffes. As we walked around, we saw so much more. Butterfly gardens, every species of birds, ducks and swans. The place was beautiful, and in the morning wasn't too hot, either.

Lillie got the biggest kick out of the monkeys. Swinging, running and yelling. She kept saying, "noisy". Her least favorite was the rhino. My guess is because it was terribly stinky. We walked close by and she kept saying, "nooooo". But, she loved looking at the elephant. He was enormous and so fun to watch.

I highly recommend seeking out a good zoo near you for a summer trip. Not only did Lillie enjoy, Cy and I felt like kids again, too.