CHAPTER 1: Zoo Day!
Evie woke up to the bright sun coming through her window and the birds chirping outside. She jumped out of bed, used the potty, brushed her teeth, and ran downstairs to the kitchen.
“Mom!!” said Evie. “It's finally here. I've been waiting all summer, and it's finally here. We're going to the zoo today!”
“I know, dear, and it's going to be a beautiful day. What are you most excited to see or do at the zoo today?” asked Evie's mom.
Evie thought for a moment and said, “Hmmm, well, I really like seeing the snakes and lizards. And I like it when they feed the penguins, even though they smell really bad. And I like getting to ride the carousel. But my FAVORITE part of going to the zoo is getting to see the lions. Their paws are really big, they're really pretty, they roar really loud, and they're a little scary, but in a really exciting way. The scary and exciting part is knowing that the only thing between me and the lions is a wall of glass or a fence.”
As Evie finished what she was saying, her younger brother Otto sat down at the table.
“Good morning, Mom. Good morning Evie.” Otto said through a half yawn.
Before Mom could respond or Otto could ask for some breakfast, Evie excitedly reminded Otto about their special day.
“Otto! Otto!” said Evie. “Do you remember that we're going to the zoo today? We're going to get to spend the entire day learning about animals, seeing demonstrations, having fun, and best of all, we'll get to see the LIONS!”
“Oh yeah…” Otto said, wiping the sleepy sand out of his eyes. “I completely forgot that we were going to the zoo today.”
“What animal are you most excited to see?” asked Evie.
“Umm, I'm not really excited about any one animal, but I am really excited for one of those lemonade slushies they sell near the bears. That's my favorite drink ever, especially on a hot, sunny day. Mom, can we get one of those slushies, please, please!!”
Mom gave Otto a serious look, “Well, son, it will depend on your behavior. Remember, the last time you kept running away from your father and me, so we weren't able to get one. It will be even more important for you to stay close today because your father can't come to the zoo with us this time.”
“Oh yeah...” said Otto. “I won't do that again. No way. I'll stay right by your side the whole day.”
“That's good.” Mom said. “Staying close helps me keep you safe. OK, if we're going to have a great day at the zoo, we need to get it started off with some fuel for your bodies. How about a yogurt parfait with vanilla yogurt, blueberries, banana slices, Cheerios, and pecans?”
“YES!” screamed Evie and Otto together.