Alligators and Flamigos

I was surprised. Over the past year Max has shied away from most animals, including dogs which he previously had no fear and would scare me in NYC by going rambunctiously toward any dog. No bites, thank goodness. Let me clarify, during the past year Max has shied away from animals that can touch him, lick him, sniff him. He still loves looking at his fish...Alhermizi Fish...which was a Christmas present in 2008 from his Daddy (Mommy was vehemently against the fish idea). We celebrated Christmas in MI and then when we went back to NYC we left the goldfish here in MI. I mean how were we going to get the fish to NYC via the plane in 3.2 oz of liquid or in a packed, checked suitcase? And, I never wanted a fish and did not want to clean the fish bowl. Max's Don Mo and Auntie Vickie kindly adopted Alhermizi Fish, thankfully. Max named the fish - Alhermizi Fish. Max doesn't really name things...he describes them. His stuffed monkey is "monkey", stuffed duck is "duck or ducky"...creative, I know. Alhermizi Fish is still alive today and Max feeds him every time he visits their house...whether the fish needs it or not. Alhermizi Fish is quite plump...but looks very healthy!

I digress....

In Sarasota we had some time to blow before our flight home. We saw this zoological park minutes from the airport and decided to visit. Max held a baby alligator and fed flamingos. I was very surprised. Maybe he felt more comfortable with his Uncle Bill who is very knowledgeable in outdoor pursuits. (wait until you see our fishing post and what Uncle Bill caught in the ocean!) So glad we stopped! And, love the wife beater shirt also!