Fun at the Zoo

James and I both had a first this week. We met our first monkey. Not just saw, but held, cuddled, befriended, etc. an actual uncaged primate. I'm not sure what James thought, but I'm pretty sure he didn't think it was anything out of the ordinary.

My friend Jana was visiting from her new home in Texas and invited us out to her house, conveniently located at the Richmond Zoo, which her family owns. I know having a baby monkey living at your house is totally normal to them (the poor thing's mother died), but needless to say, it was a new experience for me. It took me awhile to warm up to it (I'm sorry, but I've never so much as touched an actual monkey let alone had one latch onto me with a death grip before!), but once I did, little Zoe had totally won me over (Jana, do you think your mom would mind if I come over to play sometimes?)!

Knowing we'd be at the zoo that day, I strategically dressed JB in his giraffe outfit. Too bad it was cold outside and he had it covered when we got to the actual giraffes.

James had a rough time at the zoo. I'm sure everyone there wanted us to leave, including the animals. When that kid gets going (which is rare), it is enough to make me want to start crying, too. Talk about ear piercing! We tried to stage a photo op with his new friend Lexi (they're only 10 days apart), but they were having none of it . . .
Earlier that week we met up with the Nielsons, Harts, and Shermans for lunch at our favorite cheap Mexican restaurant. What a way to spend a birthday (both Lindsay's and Rebecca's. Ironically, I ate there on my birthday last year, too.)! Lets hope Knoxville has one of these, because I cannot live without good chips and salsa!