sea world

one place i had wanted to visit all summer was sea world.  the last time we were there maddie was 2 and i wanted to take her back now that she can really understand it.  however, we were a little worried about such a long day with the little guy {he is tough to handle in crowded spaces, e.g. not wanting to sit in the stroller, running off, and not holding your hand; not to mention no nap}.  but a couple of weeks ago we decided just to go and see what happens.  well, we ended up leaving super late and i thought we were wasting a trip all the way there for such a short day.  however, the day ended up being perfect.  reese was great most of the time {our arms were a little tired by the end of the trip}.  but maddie had the most fun.  she loved seeing all of the wildlife, touching starfish, but especially being our guide using the map.  we saw everything we needed to see and left in time for both to fall asleep on the drive home.  super fun day!

{toddler play area}

{can you believe it...we got a perfect smiling pic with reese and an added bonus with penguins in the background}

{maddie had been standing there 2 seconds earlier, until the walrus came right at the glass, flipping over, and scaring her so much she jumped off}

{her expression is priceless}

{she love, love, loved being our guide.  our little 'dora the explorer'.}

{we let maddie pick 1 souvenir.  she decided on the bubble blowing gun.  as you can see pure joy.  i love this age because little things make them so happy.}