Indiana

I taught two classes this summer during the months of June and July.  I knew that as soon as the semester was over, that I wanted to go with Steve and the kids on a small out-of-town trip.  We talked about a couple of options, and ultimately settled on going down to Indiana, with one of my main requests to go to the Indianapolis Zoo.  

Steve took care of booking the hotel for two nights and I purchased tickets online (with hopes that the weather would be favorable).  We also jotted down a couple of other loose ideas for places that we might visit during our 3-day adventure.

We stopped for lunch on our way down ...

And then made our way to the Duesenberg Automobile Museum.  There were over 120 cars on display with so much information to learn along the way -- for a reasonable price for our family.

A few of the cars were even designed for people to actually touch (or sit in!).

There were classic cars AND race cars.

As part of our tickets, we were also permitted to walk across the parking lot to the National Auto and Truck Museum, which was just as fascinating.

Sam found an old-fashioned typewriter and was able to actually practice typing on it.

There were several old gas pumps - with the cost of gas on them.

And old phone booths!  This took quite a bit of explaining on our part because none of the kids even recall the use of landlines, much less phone booths.

After our time exploring, we headed to our hotel to check in.  It didn't take long before the kids were dressed in swimsuits and headed downstairs to check out the pool.

The next morning, we were up bright and early to head to the Indianapolis Zoo.  Our tickets allowed us to be able to see all exhibits and included a couple of other attractions, as well.

The Dolphin Show!

Any time one of the kids asked me to take a picture of them and a particular zoo creature, I obliged.

Touching a sting ray!

We got to feed flamingos krill from a cup!  I think that this was the most incredible experience to see how they eat.

A huge tortoise!

The hairiest orangutan EVER!

Taking a small rest in between exhibits.

Sophia loves penguins and was happy to see that they had some at the zoo.

We were able to walk into the area with kangaroos and see them up-close.

The elephants were one of our last animals to view and they did not disappoint!

We stood in line for a while to feed the giraffes, but it was certainly worth it!  Every one of us was able to give them some leaves and pose for a quick picture.

Taking a moment to ride the carousel.  I don't think that you are ever too old to enjoy doing that!

Feeding birds!

After a long (but so fun!) day at the zoo, we stopped for dinner on the way back to the hotel and then spent time cooling off in the pool.  Everyone slept soundly that night for sure!

The next day, we had breakfast in the hotel and then packed our bags and prepared to check out.  But before we actually headed for home, we took the kids putt-putting.  It was a gorgeous day for it and we opted to split into teams: boys vs. girls.  Some did better than others but we all agreed that it was a great time!