We made it to...

the new California Academy of Sciences last week. And WOW is the only word for it! M & I both took the day off to spend with our children, exploring everything from the animals of Africa, to the depths of the sea, to the wonders of a rainforest. So here are many pictures....

Waiting in the very, very long line outside, though it moved quickly at least.

Hanging out in front of T.Rex. the Elf loved the giant skeletons.

the Fairy checking out a Pine Marten. We spent a lot of time discussing endangered animals.

Really neat animal skulls (made me think of a friend's artwork).

Ahhh, the wonders of the underwater world....

A nice, bright fish!

Checking out the animals of Africa.

Standing before the lion display.

A giant flower model from the rainforest.

Under the rainforest in a "Flooded Forest" tank tunnel.

All in all, it was a very educational (and very fun) day. There is still a lot we haven't seen so we plan on heading back in a few months, when just maybe some of the extreme excitement has died down and there aren't giant crowds. Oh, and we recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy in Golden Gate Park, as the prices IN the Academy's dining hall are insane.