I put my fish on a leash for our trip the aquarium. He is such a good explorer I knew it would be best if he were free to roam and discover, with the safety of never being too far away. And, with the summer crowds out, I was very happy we were tethered together! I whipped up this toddler harness during morning nap. I based it on this one, and think it is a good idea, but I’m going to make one more, with slightly different measurements before sharing a tutorial (because I know all you mom’s of active toddlers need one…even if you don’t want one!)

The aquarium is a fantastic way to spend a (very) hot afternoon. We met our good friends before the Dolphin Show, then saw rays, sharks, turtles, jellies, puffins (I was a little confused about the puffin display, but they were darling, so I’ll take it!) and of course lots and lots of fish. The displays are great, and a lot are even at eye level for the little ones, which Milo loved.

He also loved the short break we took to rest in the hallway and have a snack. This looks like a serious choking hazard.

My favorite exhibit is the Jellies Invasion. The colors are brilliant, and the creatures absolutely fascinating. I could watch them for hours. Their bodies softly pulsing through the water, tentacles drifting with the current. It is all very soothing if you don’t think about how venomous they are.

My other favorite was this fish. He was crazy lazy, didn’t even flick his tail during the minute or so I watched him. Aren’t the colors and design perfect? Like a really cool pair of shoes with that red, black and white.

After a couple hours of walking, Milo was ready for a ride…

I don’t know if Dave was! Ooh, tiny fingers yanking those short hairs hurts!