Dream Night 2013

Friday night we were so lucky to be able to go to the zoo again for Dream Night. Dream Night is where the zoo closes to the public and people who attend have full access to the zoo for 3 hours without the crowds. We also got some super special surprises. We saw a few of my friends there, a few of our friends from respite care, perfect weather (which has been in short supply around here)...all around a great night!

 We started our night eating on the patio. I could have seriously sat there all night. Omaha Steaks burgers, hot dogs and chips. Even Parker did great eating his burger!

 We were able to go behind the scenes with the giraffes. We got to go on the walk behind the indoor area and see them. Amazing! The twins were a little nervous being that close to them but did really well. These pics aren't zoomed in at all. Were were literally nose to nose with them while they ate. So cool!

 Then we got to go behind the scenes at the aquarium too! We were able to go upstairs (who knew there was an upstairs!) and see all the workings of the tanks. We got to stand at the top of the giant tunnel that's part of the aquarium and look down.

 While we were standing up there talking with one of the volunteers, we were greeted by one of the tiger sharks that kept swimming by and one of the giant sea turtles that live there. We love the turtles so that was a huge hit! We were also able to see some of the giant stingrays hanging out near the top.

We spent alot of time in the regular part of the aquarium. It is always so crowded, that we don't always have a good chance to look at things easily. The twins were able to get up and look around, run from tank to tank. Payton loved it but Parker was over the moon. He ran from tank to tank finding every fish, counting how many he saw, how many creatures he knew the names of, what colors they were, etc. Most the pictures are action shots and a little blurry because it was constant on the go, but it definitely explains the excitement.

We also got to do the touch tank for the first time. Payton touched all the animals, Parker decided he didn't want to but was willing to look at them.

 After the aquarium we were able to meet and pet a penguin. I'm pretty sure I want to bring one home :)

 Thank you Omaha Zoo! Not only did you give a lot of families a night out, you helped so many kids get the chance to really explore the zoo and animals that they might not otherwise get to. Thank you providing the kids an amazing opportunity.