Omaha - Day 3

Yep, even more good!

This morning was my morning for the zoo! And boy was I excited! I could hardly wait until they opened to get there. I get to see PENGUINS!

Oh, you didn't know I have this fascination with the flightless bird? I didn't mention that I have an extensive collection of penguins, or that I have one tattoo'd on my body??? Ooops.

Anyhow.... Moving on.

Apparently, I wasn't the only one excited about getting to the zoo early! It was FIELD TRIP DAY! I'm not sure for how many schools, but there were a LOT of children there. And on a Thursday, to boot.

No problem....

I made it to the penguin exhibit first thing, and hung out there for a while. I took mostly video there, but did get a couple of pictures. It totally made my morning!

I then just wandered around the entire zoo.

For some reason, I really like this picture. It was of the gorilla above it, and he was sleeping with his foot against the glass. A very big foot!

This sea lion was full, and started sunning himself on a full belly!

The zoo was educational, too. I learned how butterflies reproduce!

And learned that wild turkeys sometimes roam around zoo grounds.

I got back to the hotel early afternoon, and soon learned that D would have the rest of the afternoon off too.

Today's post was taken up entirely by zoo pictures, so I'll leave the afternoon adventures for tomorrow.

So more on Day 3 tomorrow!

AMW

Omaha - Day 2

More good....

Today, I had plans to drive to Lincoln, NE and visit the International Quilt Study Center and Museum.

I must admit, that it was a smaller building than I was expecting. But that surprise only lasted momentarily. As I entered, I was greeted warmly and told of the tour that started in less than an hour. The tour was THE main reason I went on Wednesday morning, and was soooooo worth it. If you visit this museum, make sure you visit during one of the times when a tour is going on.

Before the tour started, I wandered up to the third floor to see a one-woman exhibit. Beautiful! This woman had taken up quilting in her 60's, and enjoyed applique so much, that she decided to reproduce some of the most important/historical applique quilts. They were stunning. I was greeted by a volunteer while I was up there, who also gave some additional insight into the museum and exhibit.

The actual guided tour consisted of two exhibits. Perspectives: Art, Craft, Design, & the Studio Quilt and Quilts Under the Microscope. While they were both at opposite ends of the spectrum, they were both absolutely fascinating! I'm so glad I waited and attended during a tour. To wander and see these exhibits alone, I would have missed great information!

Unfortunately, there were no pictures allowed anywhere in the museum, so I have none to share, but it was definitely worth the drive out there.

On the drive back, I saw a sign for a "Wildlife Safari". I knew this was something I needed to check out as well, so I did!

It was a leisurely 5 mile drive through the 440-acre sanctuary, and there were animals all around you. A nice break of the interstate drive between Lincoln and Omaha.

Arriving back at Omaha, I decided to check out the Pedestrian Bridge that I had heard so much about. Just a quick visit, as more time was planned there on Thursday.

The bridge was beautiful, just as I suspected. On the way back to the car, however, was quite an unexpected site. Keep in mind, it was VERY windy, with sustained winds between 20-30 mph, with gusts higher.

This poor guy was trying to hula-hoop across the bridge in the wind. It wasn't working out so well for him, but I was thoroughly entertained!

I was on my own for dinner today, so I wandered down to the Old Market area (another VERY cool spot in the city) and ended up at Upstream Brewing Company. I love visiting breweries, and trying something made there. This time I had the American Wheat, as I love a good wheat beer. Dinner was pot roast, because I was waiting for D to go out for steaks in Omaha!

Later that night, another quick trip over to Harrah's Casino! Nope, didn't win big again, but still had fun!!

Tomorrow - The Zoo!!

AMW

I'm going to Omaha!

I know most people might wonder why I'm so excited....

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE going someplace I've never been before. I really believe there is something interesting about every location.

I asked on Facebook if anyone had suggestions about things to do or see, and so far, the only one who has responded said it was boring.

And yet, I'm excited....

Here's what I already know I want to see while I'm there, and of course, I'm open for all suggestions.

*The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge - A 3000ft pedestrian bridge across the Missouri River between Omaha, Ne and Council Bluffs, Ia. How cool is that???

*Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo - The zoo has penguins. 'Nuff said!

*The International Quilt Study Center and Museum - Ok, so this is in Lincoln, NE, but close enough for a day trip!

*Geocaches in 4 (yes, FOUR) new states! I'm almost beside myself by this. We'll pick up caches in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. And probably all in one day!!

*There are casinos in COuncil Bluff, Ia, which is literally just across the river, or about a 20 minute drive. Hmmm.... that could spell trouble......

Lofty goals, as We'll actually only have two FULL days, and then part of two other days. But I can't wait to see what I can see.

Do you have any suggestions on things that are a "CAN'T MISS" while in Omaha? What about some excellent dining recommendations or cool markets?

Please, please leave suggestion in the comment section!!

AMW