We live in a world that can easily stressed us out. Work, family, financial, health, social and personal issues are just some of the many reasons that will make us say, “I need a break and get away from it all!” No matter how transient, we deserve to give ourselves that dream getaway to just slow down, relax, reflect and recuperate. Life is too short not pamper ourselves with little bits of happiness.
My Weekend Getaway
It’s funny how sometimes we make plans and during the last-minute, things change that requires us to make a quick detour from our original plan.
Last week was my son’s Spring Break. Unfortunately, it was also my long week to work. We did have 3 days to spare which was more that enough to create happy memories for the family.
Originally, we were planning to go to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, then head to San Antonio’s Riverwalk for an overnight stay followed by a fun trip at Six Flags the next day. Whatever was left, we were hoping to spend it at the Tangier Outlet in San Marcos. A win-win plan for all.
Several days before our trip, my son got sick. Not only did our plans changed but he also missed his much awaited first field trip at Houston Zoo. He cried that morning when he found out that he can’t go. That broke my heart but he still had a high-grade fever.
I guess our prayers were heard. Saturday morning, my son was totally fine but we all woke up late. Driving 3 hours to San Antonio sounded impractical. Since the Spring Break getaway was really meant for my son, I asked him, “Where do you want to go?” He simply said, “Where we used to see and touch the animals, dad”
We discovered Bayou Wildlife Park in Alvin Texas by accident about 4 years ago but haven’t been there for the last 2 years. I told my wife, “Hey, instead of going to the zoo, why not we revisit the Bayou Wildlife? Our son always had a great time there.” She smiled back and said, “Sounds good.”
As we entered the park’s entrance we were greeted by several animals. First one was a very friendly Llama. He peeked inside our car and started eating our bucket of pellets. We all screamed in joy and excitement. Can’t believe that there were so many animals just waiting to meet us and be fed. It turned out the park just opened and the animals were all hungry, active and very sociable. We were really lucky.
Second was the wide-eyed emu who scared me at first with her big eyes and sharp beak. I was freaking out that she might poke my face as her head curiously went inside the window at the driver’s side. I was wrong. She was totally adorable.
The third magnificent creäture we met was the Scimitar Oryx. I just felt bad that the owners had to cut his horns for the safety of the visitors.
By the time we reached the parking lot, the car was full of food pellets including the jacket I had to wear that day. I didn’t mind. A tiny inconvenience for a priceless fun. After quickly cleaning the car, I followed my son towards the gator pond and found a couple of alligators basking under the Sun.
Next activity was horse back riding.
Finally, it was time to ride the tram truck that goes around the different sections of the park. The adventure continues. Hooray!
Everywhere we saw different species of deers.
We also saw several kinds of cattles including the endangered Gaur cattle.
Everyone back out a bit when the ostrich started eating the pellets. Upclose, it felt like it was about to poke our heads. It didn’t. Whew!
Mr. Camel followed the rear of the truck. He kept chewing something. I was tempted to ask him if he had a gum.
One of my favorite animals in the park were the Zebras. I wish the driver stopped longer for us to really appreciate its stunning beauty.
Equally beautiful were the family of giraffes. One of the female was pregnant and will give birth in the next few months.
As the goat’s front legs went up and touched by son’s arms, he shouted excitedly, “Oh,my gosh! Oh, my gosh!” I just watched and observed him for a while. He looked really happy. Quietly I told myself, “Mission accomplished!”
Seize The Day.