We used to be real regulars, like regular regulars, at the Metro Richmond Zoo back in the day when Sam was two. Gosh, we were there once a week at least. In the last couple of years, though, we haven’t gone much at all. There’s no real reason why, we just never quite made it there with preschool and the multitude of activities galore. So with a lull between various camps we set off to check it on out. I felt like I was there with a completely different kid, which is pretty much true since he has changed so incredibly much over the last year or two. Man, it was so much easier and so much more fun—at least for me anyway. For the first time we actually saw every animal at the zoo, and I didn’t have to push a stroller, pull a wagon, lug him, or restrain him in any way. All in all a good day was had by all.

The best comment of the day was when we were about to look at the lions. Sam noticed a Coke machine off to the side and exclaimed (loudly), “Mommy, there’s a beer machine! Do you want a beer? And I could get a water.“ I was laughing so hard that he started laughing too, even though he had no idea why he was laughing in the first place. His thinking was eerily right on the mark—it was so insanely hot that a nice cold frosty one would have been the perfect libation. Alas, it was in fact a mere conventional Coke machine. I had to make do with a Sno-Cone, which was pretty tasty, too. It was a perfect day even without a beer. I guess I’ve matured, too.

LibbY

PS Metro Richmond Zoo is in Chesterfield County off Hull Street in Moseley. Check out their website at http://www.metrorichmondzoo.com