Zoo Lights with the Wanks!

I've been struggling to find my holiday spirit this year.  The fact that there are only 19 more days until Christmas gives me serious anxiety, since I have yet to buy a present.  Last night was just the thing I needed to get me into the holiday mood.  My parents surprised us with an impromptu night out to see the lights in Hogle Zoo.  My family is known for their precise planning so a little spontaneity was a welcome change.

Thanks mom and dad for getting us all together. It's just what I needed.

 The kids were bundled and excited...Hank was being too cool like usual.

 Apparently I needed to go to the bathroom.

The kids got to see Santa's Reindeer and then they had a chance to sit on his lap.

Isabel wants a drum set.

Jack wanted to run away.

Hank wants paper jams and games for the Wii.

Lucy wants an Ipod.

Max couldn't think of what he wanted...think, think, think

He finally came up with cars and monster trucks, since we don't have ANY of those!

Santa took one look at Max and said, "Oh this kid is on the nice list for sure!" ha ha

Max loved riding the zebra on the carousel.  He's been obsessed with the movie Madagascar lately so he was overjoyed to ride "Marty".  He even let Grandma ride next to him!

Hank on the other hand was terrified.  He is the toughest 5 year old I know and yet the sweet calm little carousel had him in tears.  He couldn't wait to get off!

The kids loved seeing the snakes and other creepy crawly creatures.  The animals were awake and ready to put on a good show for the kids.  Hank loved the scorpions and the tigers, and Max loved the bunnies and the spider monkeys. 

Don't mind if I did steal this picture off Sarah's blog.  I have very few pictures of Max and me with cute smiles.

It was really foggy out, if you couldn't tell, so this was the clearest picture we could get of the family.  I had no idea Hank was posing as a monkey!  

Hank and Max required some nourishment in the form of chicken fingers on our way out.

Jack had to deal with the entire family fighting for his attention.  We can't get enough of this kid!

Hank as a jaguar.

Mom and Sarah were inspired by Hank's look.  Sarah, what sharp teeth you have.

Jack-man...too much!

Thanks again mom and dad for everything.  We had a great time.  O.k., I think I might be feeling excited for Christmas now.  I guess it's time to get shopping.  Put in your requests ASAP!