Thanksgiving Trip - Day 3

What a great day! We had to wake up earlier than normal (for these trips, anyway) so we would be able to get to Sea World and buy tickets before it opened. Arrived around 0900 with time to pick up some breakfast at McDonalds. No problem getting the tickets - beat the crowd - and we even got to go inside at 0930. Enjoyed the Clydesdales and Dolphins before everyone else arrived - even saw Santa! Later, Mary, Leo, Sean and Shannon arrived and we later linked up with Trish, Terry, Megan & Erin; Ellen & David; and Tim, Elizabeth & Katie Belle. It was great having everyone together. Brenna, Sean, Mollie and I explored the Shark House and later visited the Penguin House. We stumbled on to Shamu's Happy Harbor (a big climbing house). Later headed over to see the Seal and Sea Lion show - where we met up with everyone else again. Brenna wanted to ride on some rides, so we looked for something good and found a rafting ride - we got wet!! Stopped for a bite to eat and ran into Ellen and David - Ellen took Brenna on some roller coasters. Later, Tiger, Colin and Keris came by and we ended up staying with them for a bit. Met up with the big group at 1400 - just in time for the Orca show (Shamu). Everyone really enjoyed that - especially Mollie (lots of dropped jaws). Split up again for a short time and explored some animal exhibits. Tried to see the "Polar Express" (in 4D) but the line was too long. Visited the Sea World character garden for photos and thought we would stay longer - but everyone else left. We ended up leaving around 1700 (a very nice day) and headed over to the famous Rudy's BBQ. It actually was an old gas station but serves great food (you sit outside on benches with big paper-towels spread on picnic tables). Everyone enjoyed it a lot. Needed some supplies, so checked out a base nearby (Nicky had an expired ID - but the guard "fixed" that problem by taking it...). We weren't in any hurry to get back to town because there was a boat parade (tickets required) and lots of traffic. Thought we would be OK with getting back after it started (that's what the concierge said...) but never accounted for the "gawkers" in their cars that wanted to watch the parade (couldn't actually do it...). Back at Bonnie's room again around 2000. Kids enjoyed the evening with their cousins and Nicky and I relaxed a bit... Bed pretty late - whew!