Zoo Trips - America's Teaching Zoo

One of the things I've really been trying to do recently - is enjoy time with my family. Life is short, and time is precious. Seeing the joy on discovery through a two year old's eyes is pretty amazing.

Close to our home is this little zoo called "America's Teaching Zoo" - it's part of Moorpark College and it's a great spot for little kids. It's only open weekends from 11-5, so it's not always easy to fit in a visit with naps :). However, it's pretty small, so you really don't need more than an hour and a half.

 One of the great things about it is that it really is a teaching zoo! So all the shows are by students and there are always folks out practicing their training techniques with the animals. By far the best part is the "monkey" section in the back. All A can talk about is going to see the monkeys!

He also loves the reptile house and the "Did you know board!" Who new opening little doors could be so exciting?

Of course the show is great - though it's at noon - so having it right at lunchtime can mean a cranky kid if you don't prepare (I did not bring enough snacks last time - learned my lesson!). The beaver swimming in the pond was pretty awesome!

Definitely worth buying a family pass if you live nearby. Right now there is a great deal on groupon for half off admission! A perfect quick trip for a Sunday afternoon. I noticed last time that there was a birthday party going on - the kids seemed to be having a great time. One woman kept telling me the party food was ready - I almost took her up on that, even though I wasn't a guest :)

There is also a great book about the students at the zoo if you want to know more!

Brew at the LA Zoo

Last weekend we managed not only to have a date night but to go all the way into LA for our date :) This is quite a feat for us suburbanites! I admit, it really wasn't that far, and totally worth it.

So earlier this year we joined the LA Zoo...part of my quest to give money locally this year! So a few weeks ago I got an e-mail for "Brew at the Zoo" - beer tasting and animal watching after hours. Since with our membership we got a discount, I decided why not go for it :)

It was a lot of fun. We got there early, so for most of the time there were not huge lines, many of the animals were out (after an oppressively hot day of hiding) and there were even live bands and a comedy show.

It was fun just hanging out with my husband, not worrying where our toddler was running off to next. Date nights are so very important :)

And, we found two new breweries that we love: Hangar 24 and Noble Ale - both Southern California local!

Overall, I'd call that a success!

Cheers!

Donation Update

Happy Monday!

It's half way through the year. This year, I am trying to donate on a monthly basis, instead of waiting until the end of the year. Here is my initial post explaining how I am trying to donate locally in my community and to make sure and support organizations that I use.

So an update...

May - Los Angeles Zoo: Always good to support your local zoo!
June - SAMO Fund: a local non-profit supporting Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
July - Botanic Garden:  Since I run here weekly, I thought I should support them!

Still looking for ideas for the rest of the year! In August, I am planning on donating to my local food bank.