A Trip to Monterey and the Zoo

Justin and I got to accompany Dave to a youth pastors' conference in the Santa Cruz area this last week. Besides having fun at the beach, we also ventured down to Monterey to visit the Aquarium. It's been a few years since we've been there, so it was fun to experience it anew with Justin at an older age.

Justin dressing up as a bat ray (notice Dave's reflection in the mirror taking the photo)

Justin's favorite part: playing with the waves

Can you see Justin's face projected symmetrically in the circle, imitating the symmetry of a jelly fish?

Justin's silhouette watching the fish

Justin at a touching station ready to touch a sea star

At the beach: before

At the beach: ready to leave (Justin and his jeans were soaked head to toe). Why did we wear jeans to the beach? you may wonder. It was very cold when we left in the morning and when we arrived of course!

Today, Justin and I joined a friend to one of our sort of local zoos. The highlight was the lorikeet exhibit. We got to walk through the enclosed area and hold out cups of nectar. The birds came and landed on us while they ate. Lots of fun!

Justin declined to hold a cup of nectar until we got in and he saw the birds landing on other people. Then he was excited to take a turn.

Justin held perfectly still while the lorikeet licked up every drop

The lorikeets were vibrantly colored birds (and VERY loud!)

Here's one on my shoulder (Justin took this pic). There was also one on my head at one point!

Justin measuring his "wing" span

Justin and his friend, Tiernan at the tortoise exhibit