Animal House(s)!

Saturday was one of those days we were able to enjoy it to its fullest—even more precious in the middle of a summer where genuine summer days have been few. We finally caught up with friends the Schmeltzes and headed to the Arboretum for lunch and a tour of this summer's exhibit about animal houses.

Set aside any worries: after months apart, Will and Will got on like they saw each other yesterday! "Little Will," who is not so little anymore, will be 5 this fall.
The animal houses were, indeed, something to see. They were larger than life! I felt right at home in the beaver's lodge, cool and shady. Will checked it out, too.
Hatchlings Finn and Ellie. Or are they herons building their own nest?
We rode from house to house on the Acorn tram, which was fun in itself. Finn, who is nearly 2, and Ellie found plenty to laugh about (a little too much for some crabby passengers who thought children should be seen and not heard).
Oh dear, Grandpa, I think Elle has been conspiring with the enemy!
Will, Elle and Will take a break in the comfort of the raccoon's log.
Anybody home?
Who knew squirrels have duplexes?

Our next stop included a spider's web. Check out our daredevil in action:
The kids were arguing about who would be the fly. I think we ended up with lots of spiders.
Something tells me you won't find coyote houses like this around here. Maybe this is Wile E.'s abode (he's a super genius, you know).
Who could ask for a better Saturday? Schmeltzes, we'll see you soon!