The next day of our trip was spent at SEA WORLD!!!! It was a blast, but I think I had talked up Shamu so much that I was sick of that whale when I finally saw him. No, it was a great show, visually stimulating. The kids had a wonderful time looking at all the animals, playing in the water, and watching the captivating shows. Ryan, myself, Luke and Gracie all got in free due to Anheuser-Busch's salute to the Armed Forces and their families. Throughout 2007, Anheuser-Busch will honor all military and up to 3 dependents with a single day complimentary admission. Thanks AB! The park actually did a great job of honoring everyone in the military, not only through free tickets, but at the shows as well. Before the big Shamu show, they showed a segment talking about the hero's who selflessly serve our country. It was nice to be acknowledged at such a big venue. If you ever have a chance, I recommend you visit Sea World. It truly is a majestic animal paradise for adults and kids alike.

Welcome to Sea World.

The first show we watched was called "Viva!" The production featured everything from synchronized swimmers, to clowns and even Cirque De Soleil gymnasts. Pacific white-sided dolphins and beautiful beluga whales performed in the water. Here is one of many pictures from the show.

An aerialist flies across the stage.

Lisa, Caroline, and Dad.

A beluga whale; really amazing to watch.

Nonna and Luke enjoying the show.

Sweet Caroline...good times never seemed so good...

Can you see the dolphins? It's kind of hard to see them jumping out of the water.

The Grand Finale sizzles.

Just looking at the two of them you can see how hot it was out there. Wheew, I need a cold beverage.

AHHHHHH SHAMU SHAMU SHAMU!!!!

This just makes you want to be a trainer, doesn't it?

At about this point, I was wishing I was in that water.

Awww, Shamu.

I was so glad to get this action shot.

Caroline's captivated.

Luke would say "Whoa" every time the whales would slide onto the mats.

They wave goodbye.

To the everyday person Luke looks like he is going to pass out, but my little energizer bunny just keeps on going.

Luke had to give his cousin a big squeeze.

If you were wondering where Grace was, well, she didn't make it. She passed out due to the extreme heat, but not before she could get a hold of her little stuffed Shamu.

As we were walking, we noticed this tall, blue traveling band playing behind us. They just walk around the park and play for people. It was nice.

I snapped this picture of Caroline at the Penguin cove. Luke had already run off to see them again, but I thought this was cute.

Aunt Nicole and Grace, awww so sweet.

Iguana anyone? They were teaching them to walk on leashes because pretty soon, they would be too big to carry them.

This Boa Constrictor was huge. I would not want to mess with that snake.

Grace was eyeing that snake.

They had a water park at Sea World too, although I wouldn't recommend it. It was timed because of the sheer mass of people and the mothers were vicious when it came to their kids getting inside. I literally almost had a smack down with another mother who was pushing her children in front of poor Luke, who was waiting patiently. Thank God the kids were oblivious. They had a great time cooling off after a long day of fun.

This is a good picture of Caroline splashing around.

Water please?!

Isn't he cute? He had such a good time. I had to chase him out when it was time to go. In fact, I took Caroline; Lisa chased him one way and another lady had to grab Luke as he was running the other way. He is all boy, that one.

Quick stop for a hug.

Splish Splash.
"This Bud's for you."

Of course Ryan and I had to stop by the World-Famous Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales. The Clydesdale was the mascot for Ryan's old company at Fort Hood. In fact, when the guys came back from Iraq, Anheuser-Busch sent all the guys an actual Cyldesdale hoof for their service. Those Anheuser-Busch people are really generous, which is why I will always drink Bud Light.

Look at how hugs they are!
I have included info about them, which comes straight from the Sea World website:
The Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales, in their spacious home near the front of the park, are known as "Gentle Giants" to fans from all over the world. Regal ambassadors of Anheuser-Busch for more than 50 years, Clydesdales stand 6 feet at the shoulder and weigh as much as 2,300 pounds. On display while the Clydesdales are not traveling is the classic Budweiser brewery wagon. Surprisingly heavy, the wagon weighs nearly four tons, yet moves smoothly and easily as the team works together. A Dalmatian mascot rides atop the wagon to lend enthusiastic support.

Luke past out at the end of the day.

Sister messing with brother as he sleeps.

Caroline in her Shamu stroller.
We had so much fun. Maybe we will do it again.....in about 5 years!! Hope you enjoyed it.