Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Texas Christmas


 Texas bullsnake at Wichita Falls, Texas, Riverbend Nature Center.
Children are both trusting and brave, or at least braver than most adults.
I certainly didn't want to touch the snake but the grandkids did.  In fact, they were fascinated, probably because our guide was so matter-of-fact about handling all manner of phobia inducing fauna.



Kevin, our guide pointed out this snake was about to shed it's skin because the eyes were very glazed over. If you are in this area the staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

Albino catfish and turtle fascinates a one year old.


Praire dogs also entertained.


Roadrunners spread their plummage to help regulate their body temperature. This was interesting to observe and learn about.

This roadrunner was very tame having been raised at the center.

 The Nature Center was educational and interesting. I didn't get pictures of the  live Meadagascar roaches which were huge and the brown recluse and black widow spiders because I was intently listening to the guide.

 I was so impressed with the resources at the center including videos.




 This is an oriole bird's nest made out of fishing line. Our guide pointed out the problems that occur in nature if things are not disposed of properly.

A traditional oriole nest from natures materials.


We don't get to see these kids very often so this was a special time for us. Didn't get many Christmas pictures because little kids move so fast and I was enjoying the moments too. So we had two Christmases one in Alabama and one in Texas. How cool is that!




Linking to: Oh, the PLACES, I've been,  and Wow us Wednesdays.

7 comments:

  1. Oh, such precious faces!! Those smiles! They light a room! So glad you were able to enjoy two Christmases with your loves, Bonnie. Sending hugs for the empty arms post-visit... blessings ~ tanna

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  2. So lovely Bonnie! Not sure about the snake, but how cute is the prairie dog!! Lovely that you got to spend time with your family in such a great place, it looks like a great day out. Happy New Year. xx

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  3. Hi lovely lady.
    I know it been a long time you had a post on my sidebar had to come see you. I also love the precious faces and those smiles from them so sweet.
    Hoping you and your family have a wonderful New Year God Bless.
    Maybe you can come see me some time.
    xxoo
    Diane

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  4. OK, the very SECOND I saw that snake, I just sort of backed up in my chair! Yikes! And the baby was touching it like there was nothing to it! Wow!!! Kids really don't have the same fears as adults! Had I been in that same room, there are several of those animals that would have backed me to the wall in a heartbeat!!! :-) (Although I have to admit the design on that turtle's shell is pretty cool!)

    I'm so glad you had time to spend with your precious ones. They're cute as can be. I especially like the pictures with them poking their heads through the ladybug cutout!

    Happy New Year to you and your family! I hope it is the best year ever for you all!!!

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  5. Bonnie, Your collage of your grand kids is adorable! Such fun at the nature center with them too :) Glad you were able to enjoy two Christmas celebrations! Wishing you a Happy & Healthy New Year!

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  6. Hi Bonnie,

    I'm late to visit, but better late than never! Your two red-haired grandchildren are precious!! My husband was a red-head when he was little. :) I'm sure all of you had great fun at the nature center. I think the prairie dog is just adorable! We saw a road runner at our N.C. zoo a few years ago and took pictures of him. They don't look anything like the one in the cartoons, huh?

    Thanks for sharing with us, Bonnie; it looks like you've had a wonderful Christmas holiday.

    Warm Hugs to You,

    Denise

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