Project 365 d-153

     What a really super day I had today. First, I didn't have to work and second; I got to join my youngest on a trip to the local Zoo with her school class. Plus, I knew that there would be photographic opportunities galore, and that was a good feeling to not have to worry about subject matter for the day. In the back of my mind, I was thinking about Giraffe's as there was supposed to be a new baby there. Although I had photographed at the Zoo before; I had been involved in a photo project, so this was more special.

     Riding on a big yellow school bus was something I had not done for a long time, and I know I must have looked silly all stuffed into that little seat. My daughter sat in the seat just across the aisle from me and she kept looking over at me and smiling. I'm sure it was a big thrill seeing her big ole Dad riding along for a day at the Zoo when many children were without their parents. When we pulled into the Zoo; I was not sure if I was more excited to get off the bus, or get into the Zoo. Maybe I looked like a Giraffe getting off that bus as I could feel the little ones staring at me. A smile crept over my face as I stepped down to the wonderful, roomy, concrete.

     We all gathered in line to await the green light to head in. Suddenly, I felt a tiny hand slip up inside mine as she pressed against me. A rush of pride and love washed over me as I squeezed her hand kissed her head. What a blessing to be at the Zoo with my little one and to be allowed in with such a big camera too. The printed out schedule said we were starting with the Giraffes first, and I was glad because the light was really good then. Off we went to go see the Fast Walking Camel Leopards. As we got close; I could see the little one standing out in the open, but as the cries of the excited children reached it's ears; It bucked like a horse and sort of galloped back inside. We met up with a guide that explained they currently had two young Giraffe's and this was the curious one. As we were standing there listening to her talk about how magnificent these animals were, this little one poked out it's head for a closer look. Not very far at first, then ever so gradually until it was out far enough to photograph. Thank God for my big zoom as I was able to get in close for a shot. Just as I started shooting, this little Giraffe started licking its lips, and made a perfect shot for a perfect day.

     Many more photos were taken that day, and many precious moments were shared between Father and Daughter. As we headed back to the school on the big, bumpy, yellow bus; I shared some of the photos with the other children. There wide eyed expressions made me smile as they viewed many of the Zoo's wild creatures up close. My daughter watched this with pride, and I noticed her enjoying every minute of it. I went to the Zoo that day hoping to spend some quality time with my daughter and get a good photograph. What I got was a full soul as well as memory card. What more can you ask for?

Happy Shooting.