Because Today the Monkeys are Breaking out of the Zoo

So my mom called me this Monday morning, which happened to be a holiday, and woke me up by telling me she and my dad were on their way to get me, and that we were going to the zoo.

Oh no worries Mom, not like I had plans....





Ok I did not have plans.


I also love the zoo.

I feel like this Polar Bear likes the zoo too. Here he is having a nice picnic lunch while enjoying the view of Balboa park from his rock.

 

I love the flamingos.  They smell terrible, but the colors are kind of amazing.

I was really excited to see the gorillas.  They're so huge, and furry, and wonderful.  I don't understand how anyone can look into their eyes and not see something beautiful. Unfortunately the glass wasn't really a great medium to take pictures through, but I kind of like how these turned out. It kind of feels like they're from inside of the enclosure looking out at the people.

 I thought this one turned out really neat too. The little girl in the bottom had her hand on the glass like she was trying to give him a high five.  It was really adorable.

Last but obviously not least, is the Orangutan. A combination of two of my least favorite things-- jowls and red hair. But for some reason, I just want to take him home with me....even though I'm pretty sure he would crush my skull. 

Lessons From Dad

My Dad likes to remind me that not everyone is lucky enough to have best friends.

When I was little and would get picked on by my class mates (because I have always been little, and never been great at confrontation) he would remind me that life is long, and sometimes the people we think are important at one moment will be inconsequential in the scheme of things. He didn't try and tell me "a reason, a season, a life time" because my Dad doesn't bull shit around like that. He simply told me sometimes people aren't what you think they are, but if you are lucky you will meet people who will not only understand you, but they will make you happy that you are yourself.

Then he bought a punch bag and tried to teach me how to deal with confrontation.

Sometimes when I'm having a terrible day I remember the things like this that my Dad taught me in order to get through it.

Ultimately I am lucky to have amazing people in my life; amazing friends who love me for who I am. And instead of just having one or two people like this, I have managed to accumulate them around me as I get older.

But also it is good to remember that sometimes punching things really does make you feel better.

Thanks Dad!