We celebrated Ezra’s birthday this weekend by going down to San Diego for a trip to Sea World. We started out at Grandpa Bill and Grandma Therese’s house for Saturday afternoon and night. We had cake.
And, at Ezra’s request, we waited until Sunday morning (his actual birthday) for presents.
A little later in the morning we hit SeaWorld — Ezra’s pick because they have penguins there and he is penguin-crazy. Right off the bat, we saw these guys — the Magellanics that come from South America and (obviously) like a warmer climate.
Ezra was pretty excited.
Next we went into the Penguin Encounter area where the colder climate penguins live. They have about 350 penguins in there and it’s 25 degrees.
We also saw polar bears.
Beluga whales.
And the Shamu show, which, I have to say, is still as thrilling as it was when I was a kid.
After lunch and a couple of other attractions, Ezra and I split for the Penguins Up Close tour while Bruce and Finn headed to the Sesame Street area. While we were waiting, Ezra saw this seagull on one foot and said, “He’s doing yoga!”
He then proceeded to attempt the same pose.
Finally, we got to go “back stage” at the Penguin Encounter and meet this adorable little macaroni penguin.
We got to pet her.
And watch her wander around a bit as the keeper was talking.
Then we braved the 25 degree weather to go inside the penguin area. They really are particularly cute animals.
Needless to say, Ezra was thrilled.
After our behind the scenes tour was finished, we met up with Bruce and Finn and went to see the turtles.
Of course, we had bought some souvenirs.
Then it was time for the crazy dolphin show in a very warm and sunny arena.
Finally, it was time for dinner and the long drive home. Both boys took their penguins to bed with them and I snapped this picture of a very exhausted, newly-minted 7-year-old sleeping off a very exciting day.
I took a lot more pictures; a slideshow of the rest is here.