Smoky Mtn's - Part 2

On Tuesday it was raining when we woke up and continued to rain on and off all day. We headed to the Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. There were some absolutely fascinating creatures. All of us were captivated by the ocean animals. The sawfish (which looks like a shark with a long saw-like snout but is not a shark) was amazing. I loved the super large sea turtles. Rachel enjoyed the stingrays and the idea of touching them but just couldn't get up enough courage to put her hand in the water when they swam by.

David just jumped from animal to animal somewhat overwhelmed but very happy. He especially liked the hands-on crabs exhibit. Yuck. These particular seahorses are especially colorful. They look so graceful as their tiny fins propel them through the water.
I could have watched the jellyfish for hours. In the exhibit, I could stand with my face inches away from them.

The trip to the aquarium was followed by lunch at The Pancake Pantry. Rachel ate M&M pancakes, David had the same, but managed to eat more of mine than his own. We sometimes have breakfast for dinner - but never before have had it for lunch! We followed lunch with a round of indoor putt-putt golf in Indiana Jones theme. David putts left-handed.

We took a beautiful drive through a portion of the National Park. Here's one picture that captures how lush and green it was.

Wednesday's weather was not much better than Tuesday's. We were optimistic and headed into the park for more time with nature. Here's how we ate our picnic lunch in the rain. I honestly think the kids liked this better than the park picnic table. I think it was unexpected that Mommy & Daddy ok'd eating in the car.

After lunch we went for a hike since the sky started to lighten. I'll continue with sharing the hiking adventure tomorrow. Here's a picture to keep you in suspense!