Columbus love (and I'm not just talking those Buckeyes!)

This past week, I stopped at the Columbus Zoo on the way back from Michigan. It was my second visit. It also happens to be Jack Hanna's zoo. If you know me, you know I have a love for animals. My grandfather worked at the Detroit Zoo for over 30 years, and I think I obtained my love from him. He was the head zookeeper, and had a Chimp named Skeeter, who would roller skate down the sidewalk with my mom and Aunts. I have always wanted to meet Jack Hanna. I loved watching Animal Adventures, (and still do) and try to catch Jack whenever he is on GMA, Leno, or other shows like that. Well he is not at the zoo often  because he is gallivanting across the country, or world for that matter learning more about animals, taping new shows, and exploring. It just so happened that he was taping something in his little base camp place the day I went. (I only knew because I walked in on the taping--oops.) ;)

 There was nothing blocking it off, so I assumed it was just another exhibit in the Zoo. I was quickly greeted with a gal that put her hand up to her mouth, and told me they were taping. I said, "Is Jack Hanna here?" She said yes. I was trying to contain my giddiness composure. It wasn't that easy for me.  Well, I listened in through the canvas just to try and hear what he was talking about. I didn't really hear much, but I thought if I waited around, maybe he would come out. It worked. Not 2 minutes later, out he comes. It was apparent that he was in a hurry, but I did manage to tell him about my grandpa. And then I asked for this. :)

And he obliged. :)

This was the first time this Winter wearing the coat I got for Alaska. And so I needed to take a pic by the Moose, because it reminds me of my dear friends and a beautiful state. 

Bear Hug!

Look at those paws! Wow--they are massive. How cute are these little guys!

I also got to see some of God's other amazing creatures!!

And here is what happened in the Gorilla house. I had fun with this guy.