Joyfully Weary

Almost a year ago now, we decided to get memberships to Chicago's Brookfield Zoo and it's one of the best $100 we've ever spent. I've lost track of how many times the kids and I have visited, but every time we go they are super excited and we are still discovering new things. It's a huge zoo with tons of great animal exhibits as well other extraordinary additions that make it an exceptionally fun place for young families: a summer splash pad, the Hamill Family Play Zoo (think small children's museum), playgrounds, a petting zoo, picnic areas, etc.  Maca joined the kids and I for a visit this past Thursday and it turned out to be a perfect day - well, as "perfect" as days can be when they are spent with three young children. Once we arrived at the zoo we had a mini picnic in the car since I was afraid it'd still be too cold to eat outside. The weather, however, was quite warm - they boys went coatless the whole time. We didn't see a...

I find zoos to be quite enchanting, as they offer a broader-than-normal view of God's masterful design. We are fortunate enough this year to have season passes so the kids and I will be visiting the zoo a lot. This last week's trip was extra special though, because Husbandie took the day off and joined us - he makes everything a bit more fun. two silly monkeys teasing a not-so-scary crocodile Brookfield zoo has a special play zoo for young children. This was the first time we ventured in and the kids all had a blast - we weren't sure we were going to ever be able to pull them away. mini man wanted to be painted like an elephant i think husbandie did a pretty good job when we knew it was time to call it day  Small Graces are a weekly reflection inspired in part by Bob Bennett's song, "Small Graces". "these are the small graces, the moments with the miracles come... ...