The Ballard Bunch

My dad came out to visit for a few days this past week and had so much fun with the girls. He especially enjoyed Tatum because they could play together more. She was her usually stand-off'ish self, but she really did warm up to him well! That is, until she got sick, and then it was crank city. Either way, it was great to see dad/grandpa and we hope he can come to visit again soon!

While he was here we decided to take the girls to the Hoggle Zoo. Tatum had never been and I knew she'd enjoy it - she's very into animals right now. Even though lots of attractions were closed, we got to spend a good hour and a half (just long enough, if you ask me) at the zoo. Plus, it was half price day so we all got in for $8 - can't beat that!

Tatum was so cute - everything that in any way resembled a horse was "Horsie!!!!", every bird was "Duckie!!!!!", monkeys were "Boots!!!!" and she loved the black bears - she just stood at the fence and growled at them. Despite being a little under the weather, she did not want to be in the stroller at all and guided us through the zoo like a champ. Hayden, of course, slept the whole time.

Here are a few pictures of our trip (sorry there aren't more - I suck at remembering to take pictures lately!!!)

Tatum and Grandpa looking at the Rhinos


She loved the elephants and this one was standing so funny. He was leaned up against the fence with his legs crossed like he was waiting for something to happen.


Tatum had the most fun with the bronze statue of the rhino for some reason. She kept knocking on it and laughing. I love this picture!


Here she is when she caught a glimpse of the bears in the distance. She ran right over when she saw them!


Here's a sample of the "Horsies" that she loved so much. We're going to have to work on the more exotic animals now! She's a pro at Kitties, Puppies, Cows, Ducks, Bears and Horsies.