Abi's Dolphin Encounter

Abi loves anything and everything about the ocean. I'm sure it all started when she was just a baby when we lived so close to the ocean in Monterey, CA. That love only grew when we lived in Hawaii and went to the beach every week for 3 years. Once she was able to read, she devoured every book she could find that had anything to do with the ocean. She has written and illustrated several journals of the various creature of the deep. She amazes me with the facts she has accumulated through the years. It only seemed fitting that she finally get an up close encounter with her favorite animal - the dolphin. Luckily Sea World of San Antonio was able to fulfill this wish. Her Christmas gift was a Dolphin Encounter. An adult had to accompany her, so I picked myself to go. :)

 After a very long, and lengthy discussion and demonstration (which Abi LOVED!), it was time for some hand on activities.

 There were two dolphins that we were introduced to. Scotia, and Cisco.

 This is Scotia. We were shown the different parts of the dolphin, and the trainer would ask questions. Abi knew the answer to every one, and would give a lot more information as well. The trainer was quite impressed with Abi.

 She pointed out some scars on the side of Scotia. Apparently, dolphins get a little rowdy when they play and scratch each other up. They're like big kids!

An inside look at his mouth.

 This dolphin was named Cisco. Abi kept pronouncing it Sicko until she finally caught on. It was funny!

 We were shown different hand motions to make the dolphins do different tricks.

 Always reward a job well done with a fish. Personally, I'd prefer a chocolate bar. :)

 Abi found a dancing partner. They dance well together.

 I even had a turn. I wasn't wild about touching nasty fish, but it wasn't too bad. I refused to touch the squid. That was too much for me! Even Abi wouldn't touch the squid.

 As the finale, Abi and the other girl in our group were rewarded with a huge splash! Thank goodness it was a hot day. It was a nice way to cool off.