Sun? In Spring? In Washington?

I think I've been as shocked as everyone else by some of the weather this week.  I've not yet gotten over Monday when Seattle was tied for hottest city in the US with Phoenix.  The sun has meant lots of time outdoors.  Since the weather is expected to turn in the next few days, I decided to make a trip down to Tacoma to visit the Pt. Defiance Zoo and also say happy birthday/happy mother's day to my mom.

I've become a zoo snob.  In order to avoid crowds, I prefer to go to the zoo on weekday mornings as soon as they open.  I've become too good to actually have to share the viewing of animals.  By going at opening I get at least 45 minutes to myself before any school groups get there.  I loathe the summer day camps just as much. I'm sure I'll have to get over myself once the kids are in elementary school but for now...

It was a perfect day for the zoo and Grandma accompanied us.  The sun was shining, the crowds were not existent.  We saw a baby tiger cub.  I didn't know about the new sting ray touch tank exhibit so that was an added bonus.  It was a great, low stress trip.

She was skeptical about actually touching a sting ray.  She also refuses to touch sea cucumbers because in her words, "They don't like me."

"I touched a sting ray!"

Seattle pride represent

Generally, sunny weather at our house means playing in the backyard.  Playing in the backyard is really code for digging in the dirt and finding sticks to fight over.  Linus recently discovered the boys who live behind us and happen to share his enthusiasm for dirt and bugs.  He constantly checks to see if they are out and available for conversation through the fence.

She got very dirty.

Sun + dirt play = increased frequency of bathing.  Bathing leads to naked time which leads to naked guitar playing.

I am so grateful for the sun and the increased opportunities to just watch my kids be kids.  I can handle the rain forecast for next week because all the pollen and dust has given Eileen a constant runny nose.  And if you've never experienced having your bare arm used as a tissue then you haven't lived.