San Diego Together

The purpose of this destination was an American Zoo Association convention for Cheryl.  The rest of us came along for the fun of it, and fun it was.  We also met up with cousins Howard and Lauren who came for a long weekend.

 After our settling into the campground in Chula Vista we drove north to San Diego so Cheryl and Dave could also settle in.  Then we all went to Mariscos El Puleo for flavorful mohitos and other beverages and really good Mexican food. 

The next morning we toured the San Diego Safari Park where the tram took us to see

elephants

giraffes and other animals

The Rodrigues Fruit Bats were quite active.

Bennett raved about his dessert.

Personal editorial: Most of us had been here before and found it less than exciting.  For example we had a tram guide who told us less about the animals and more about conservation, and, did that poorly.  While conservation is a key lesson in visiting places like this, it should be part of animal education and not in lieu of it.  (See the next blog regarding the San Diego Zoo).

Lauren found a special treat for the adults: The U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.  We had seen these on TV and in magazines but seeing it in person was impressive.  We learned from a member of a volunteer team how the artists use several boxes of sand piled atop each other.  One by one the boxes are opened and the sculpture is created from the top down.  He also showed us “the most important tool,” a spoon that has been sharpened on one side so that it acts a shaping device, scoop and cutter.  He also explained that professional sculptors are flown to competitions, supported while working and receive high fees for creating works for businesses and organizations.  Many of the volunteer teams donate their prize money to charities.  We enjoyed getting up close to the wonderful art created by both pro and volunteer teams.  Here is a sample of what we saw:

This one won first place in the professional division

While Cheryl, Lauren, Dave and Howard went off to find beer, we got to spend a delightful evening with, Bennett who played on the playground, won and lost at dominoes, and wanted lots of books read.  Such wonderful demands upon the happy grandparents. 

 The next entry will include the San Diego Zoo which we enjoyed a lot.