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NC Zoo: Elephants Oct 2015

Celebrating 1

October 19, 2015 Sarah Coggins

Our baby girl turned one over the weekend. One. I knew it would happen, but still – those 12 months flew by. On Saturday, we celebrated with a family trip to the NC Zoo in Asheboro.

NC Zoo: Elephants Oct 2015

This was her 3rd visit, but the most recent was last January at 3 months old, so she was much more aware of her surroundings and the animals to say the least. We tend to visit in the “off season” and therefore typically have to enter via the North America entrance. Since the Africa entrance hasn’t closed yet for the year, we decided to start on that side of the zoo which meant our first sights were the giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and elephants. She really loved the elephants since they were so close to us.

And making funny faces with Granpda. Perfect entertainment while waiting on her brother. With his new reading skill, he was checking out a lot of the information plaques. Great for him, but not as exciting for a one year old to wait on.

Elise First Birthday Laughs with Grandpa

Batology 101 was taking place around the Desert exhibit. My son loved it. He learned a bit plus played a game, did a couple of crafts, and got to see how his wingspan compared.

NC Zoo: Batology 101 wingspan Oct 2015

We also purchased tickets for the special Dino World exhibit. It’s pretty much the same (or similar) to one a few years back. My son loved it then and loved it again this weekend. His sister was okay at the beginning …

NC Zoo: Dino World 2015

Sitting on top of a fake dinosaur with your brother? Not too bad.

Dino Photoshoot

But actually getting close to a few animatronic dinosaurs?

Dino - No!

Dino - No!Not a good idea. And this was the beginning of the exhibit. (See one of the dinos in action on my instagram account here)

We started hurrying through and about halfway (really only like 20 feet further), I took her and strapped her to me in the LílléBaby carrier with the neck support & hood up to hide her from seeing any more of the dinosaurs. When we reached the end, I opened it back up and reassured her they were “all done” including signing it. She still wasn’t fully convinced as you can see by the one “good” photo of the two of us all day. Of course I forgot to get a photo with her until she had been scared by dinosaurs. *sigh*

Elise's First Birthday at the Zoo - No to DinosaursWe’re assuming she’s over it though because yesterday we found her playing with some of her brother’s toy dinosaurs. Apparently they aren’t as frightening.

NC Zoo: Chimpanzees Oct 2015

Fortunately, we had a few more animals to view before leaving the zoo including the lemurs, chimpanzees, and the lions. All 5 lions were napping together when we first approached. Then one decided to strut to the rock and pose. One of those moments where I kicked myself for forgetting my other lens!

NC Zoo: Lions Oct 2015

Oh well. I still got a couple of decent photos and our birthday girl squealed with delight at seeing the “big cats.” The scary dinosaurs were completely forgotten and we had one happy girl on our way to the exit.

Elise's First Birthday: Happy Girl

Did you catch the one big birthday item that was missing from our day? Her brother was quite disappointed that we didn’t have a cake! It was a bit much to take with us to the zoo though so we saved it for yesterday.

Elise's First Birthday: Cake

As most one year olds (maybe all one year olds?), she wasn’t sure what all of the fuss was about, but did seem to enjoy watching the candle flame and being sung to. Her brother blew out the candle for her. Then I cut her a small slice and she surprised us by eating a few bites. She’s not as big of an eater as her brother was at the same age and finds mealtime much more enjoyable when she’s tossing food. Needless to say we did end up with a bit of icing on the window beside her. But hey, it was her party so why not toss some cake?

Linking up with Mommy & Me Monday at Really, Are You Serious?

Cake banner was made using my Silhouette Portrait and How ‘Bout Them Apples digital kit by Mommyish. This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

6 Comments

  • Camille October 19, 2015 at 10:12 pm
    Aww, happy birthday to your little one!! You got some really great shots of the day!
    • Sarah Coggins October 20, 2015 at 8:56 am
      Thank you! I actually took a lot less photos than I thought. Probably good though as I was enjoying the day more than looking at it through a lens. ;)
  • Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? October 26, 2015 at 2:51 pm
    For the off-season at the zoo, you sure got some great views. When it's the off-season here, everything is on "vacation" and closed down...and you leave wondering why you still have to pay full admission! The cake with the little banner is perfect. I always forget the fun things like that I can do with my silhouette!
    • Sarah Coggins October 28, 2015 at 8:36 am
      Unless it's too cold, there is typically plenty to see in the off-season. In the hotter months, the earlier in the day, the better. By afternoon, they are all off hiding in the shade taking naps. And, thanks! That banner was a first for me and fun to make. I wanted something "special" for her cake and that worked out perfectly - and with supplies I already had!
  • Julie S. October 27, 2015 at 10:01 am
    She is just the cutest! Happy Birthday!
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    Sarah

    Hi! I'm a DIY and craft obsessed mom to 2. I have my hands covered in sawdust or paint any given day. My husband and kids join me in many of our projects. When we aren't creating at home, we're creating memories in our many adventures. Join along! Read More

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