Family Gathering at the Zoo

So we had the coolest family gathering this past weekend at the GV Zoo! My cousin happens to manage the zoo, and therefore they arranged a large Klassen reunion on the grounds. 

We arrived at the picnic area with a reserved section and banner welcoming us...

Papa and his granddaughters look at the ducks and gather feathers...

This proud peacock was busy strutting his stuff, obviously aiming to impress the female who is squatting submissively in front of him. There is no doubt in my mind where the saying 'proud as a peacock' comes from! He was shaking it and turning for all to see his glamour!

We had an entirely reserved train ride for the whole Klassen Klan!

Melissa & Daddy taking in the sites...

We caught the 'Radical Raptors' show, which was very amazing!

Back at the picnic grounds, Melissa & second cousin Julianna got along very well. Here they are throwing leaves in the water for the ducks!

Just hanging out!

A bunch of us girls on a Kubota tractor...

Melissa, 'driving' Julianna on the Kubota...

After dinner we went out to see the animals. All the regular zoo visitors had left for the day, and the animals were perkier than ever as sun was going down. The lemurs were so cute, springing from tree to tree. 

This cheetah completely ignored that fact that we were there paying him a visit. We tried everything to get his attention. It was only when we walked away that he turned around! Such a true cat!

The hippos were the closest I have ever experienced. This one swam right up to where we were.

The other one exited the water for an even better view!

Next we went to visit Shadow the bear. At first we couldn't find her. But after a bit of waiting around she came out from hiding.

I took so many pictures. She was just like a big teddy bear, and came right below the look-out building for some great photo opportunities!

The kids did so well together... even though it was way past all their bedtimes! The zoo is such a great place to explore and have a family gathering! I'm pretty sure this will become an annual thing :)