Hirsts at the Aquarium

We had a great day of family fun at the Dallas World Aquarium (thanks to very sweet birthday gift for Damian from the Baxters and the Galyons). The term "aquarium" really doesn't do this place justice! In addition to absolutely amazing aquariums (including a shark tank that you walk through/under, and several smaller tanks that allow you to come nose-to-nose with manatees, otters, etc.), the DWA has a huge indoor rain forest complete with parrots, flamingos, monkeys, alligators, etc. We had such a wonderful time exploring it all and Ellie was in heaven! We could hardly get her to come inside the DWA because she was so interested in the little fairy penguins at the entrance, and she LOVED the sea otters:

Despite a very short morning nap, Charlie was so happy in the rain forest. I think he really liked the sound of the waterfall, which could be heard throughout the area.

This is a terrible family picture, but since we take so few, I thought I should post it...plus it shows Charlie's beloved waterfall:

I couldn't get any good pictures, but both kids enjoyed the huge aquarium with manatees, huge turtles and enormous (and really weird looking) fish. It was so sweet to see both kids practically nose-to-nose with the manatee.