Shamu!

We took the girls on their first visit to see Shamu. They were so excited, and even more so because they had their cousins Mia and Nate visiting as well. Our first stop was to see the dolphins. We had heard from more experienced Sea Worlders that this spectacle at the park gets so jam-packed that we needed to get there as soon as it opened. So we were there bright and early at 9:30. The girls even got to pet the dolphins.

Then it was off to see more fish, ride some Sesame Street rides, and then eat our lunch before heading to the Shamu show. The girls had a blast watching the amazing whales wave, dive, dance, and spin. The last time I saw Shamu, back in 2004 on a date with Mark, I think I actually shed some tears. This time it wasn't as tear-jerking because now the trainers are not allowed to ride the whales after the horrible tragedy at the Sea World in San Diego. I was a bit disappointed that the goosebumps weren't as big this time, but what matters most is that the kids thought it was magnificent! And oh, their cousins Grayson and Zander were able to drive up from Austin just in time to see the show too! What a treat!

We ended our adventure with the walrus and sea lion show. We look forward to visiting more often this spring and summer. I'm excited to see the Sesame Street shows that we weren't able to make, and take advantage of their splash pad as well. So thankful we got season passes!

The girls with cousins Nate and Mia

Come here Flipper!

Taking a yummy break!

Round and round she goes

These girls love their merry-go-rounds!

In awe of Shamu!