Just Fishin' Around

Although we hadn't exactly planned on swimming to the aquarium, the rain was coming down in torrents as we made our way down to join the Bright Futures kids for their field trip. What I didn't realize was that this wasn't just a regular trip to the aquarium; rather, through some of Bright Future's connections, we had reserved for us a tour of all of the behind-the-scene stuff, a showing of the otherwise too expensive 4D movie, and some time to wander at our leisure.

The tour was fantastic. I recall seeing various news reporters broadcasting from the Georgia Aquarium when it first opened. I never recognized their setting, though. Now I do. They were behind-the-scenes--above the ginormous tanks. An amazing site to behold. The whale sharks circled around by us several times and offered us great views.

It was also fun to see some of the fish in 4D and cartoon-style. We got splashed, jolted, and shoulder-brushed by jellyfish. I'm not sure if it was more fun to watch the film or to watch the kids watch the film.

Of course watching the kids while we were wandering at our leisure was a bit nerve-wracking. I had my four for whom I was completely responsible and 12 others for whom I was partially responsible. Although we had the aquarium mostly to ourselves for the first couple of hours, the crowds began to build, and it took some doing to keep my eye on everyone.

We did all manage to stay together, though, and my whole family was blessed by the experience. My kids all got to know my Bright Futures kids, and I had a chance to get acquainted with some of the middle-schoolers who I don't see much. Alex befriended Alicia, a seventh grader, and they had a great time together. What's funny is that Alex is taller than her! The other three had fun goofing off with some of the high school kids as well.

After a fun day, we were pleased to discover the sunshine outside. Which meant we would not have to swim home. And we hope to join Bright Futures on others of their Friday field trips.