Breaking Point

Last weekend was fun filled and ended with a big trip to the Zoo. Little did we know that getting to the Zoo would be a Zoo. With all of the flooding in Chicago, the heaviest concentration was right at the Brookfield location. 2.5 hours or so to drive to the zoo and find parking (the bulk spent on finding parking) due to road closings and parking lot closings.

Well, we got there and found great parking, for free, near the Zoo. Several hours spent inside and walking aorund, etc. On the way home Alissa and I were exhausted. Jack on the other hand was catching a second wind and going 100 miles an hour with questions and talking. After 12 solid hours away from home Al and I were quickly becoming grumpy parents. Asking jack to "PLEASE be quiet!" and other requests that were met with "NO! I won't be quiet!"

We were at our breaking point and close to losing it to be quite honest. Well we decide to give Jack his toy we bought at the Zoo whcih was a Giraffe head attached to a long stick with a handle that would make the Giraffe's mouth move and talk. He saw me using this toy throughout the day talking to people and animals and having fun with the toy (For teaching purposes only...really). So the moment before Alissa and I start yelling and becoming demanding parents Jack takes the Giraffe head (attached to an 18 inch stick) and plops it to the right of Alissa's face while she is trying to relax in the car.

She looks to her right, sees a Girrafe head and Jack pulls the trigger moving the mouth and says loudly, "Heh-Wo" (hello). Instead of losing it in anger we laughed so hard we cried until we got home. Jack, seeing that this pleased the crowd, maintained form and let the Giraffe eat Alissa's hair, mouth catchy phrases and put on an act for the tired crew up front.

I guess our breaking point was near the funny end and not the angry end. Jack - You are a funny kid. Thanks for the great weekend and very talented entertainment!