Baltimore Aquarium, July 2006

Steve, Helen and Aaron came up from North Carolina (or down from the mountains, depending on your point of reference) for a visit late in July. On first blush that seems insane, no one wants to come to DC in late July -- especially at the height of a record setting heat wave. But with two different, unrelated scholastic schedules, other times are harder for them to take a week off. We really enjoyed the chance to see them. Robert had a great time and really appreciated the "train experts" laying out his tracks (which were hand-me-downs from Aaron, after all).

We took advantage of our out-of-town visitors to check out some of the tourists sights. Including a trip back to the new Air and Space Museum. Aaron (and his folks) were enthralled by the docent's tour. Robert, less so; but he enjoyed wandering around looking at all the planes and helicopters. And we took a trip up to the Baltimore to tour the National Aquarium in Baltimore; everyone loved that as well...

July 28, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. They still had the Frogs exhibit running -- and Aaron is still a frog fan. The poison arrow frogs were spectacular, even if difficult to photograph in their foggy glass cage.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
Sarah signed us up for membership so we avoided the lines and wait and our tickets included the dolphin show. Which was impressive as always. July 30, 2006 (photo by Steve).
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
The rain forest exhibit was interesting, but too reminiscent of the outside weather.
The Aquarium proper was also fun for all. Robert spent some time chasing fish (and being chased by fish).
July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
July 30, 2006. July 30, 2006.
We were sorry to see Steve, Helen and Aaron leave (and Robert is still asking for "Uncle Steve" a week later) but very happy they were willing to brave our summer to visit.
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