Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

 This past week we escaped the frigid cold and visited Nana and Grandpa Jeff in Florida.

We stayed in their place that is located in Lakewood Ranch (Near Sarasota)

The weather wasn't "typical" hot sunny Florida weather, but it was MUCH better than what MN had to offer :)  The first day we were there we visited the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary.

What a fun day!

We didn't know exactly what to expect, but we had a great time!

Here are a couple pics from the airport....the kiddos were SO EXCITED!

These giant birds could be found walking around the condo complex. 

Grandpa Jeff and Little Reese at the Big Cat Habitat

Nana and Carter
And a Kodiak Bear that was rescued from a MN zoo.

Daddy's Girl

Waving HELLO!

DIVA

Feeding the goats was another favorite part of the day!

Nana and her grandbabies (a rescued white tiger in the background)

Look I found a shell!

I just love their cheesy smiles!

"Handsome" the lion.  I couldn't believe how cuddly and lovable he was with the head trainer.  Don't get me wrong though....there is no way I would want to stand in there with 3 tigers and a lion.

"Mia" a rescued LIGER from MN!

We had an awesome day!

All of the animals were either rescued from zoos that closed etc or from private homes that took in wild animals and realized they are a lot more work than planned.  You can tell each and every animal is loved like family.  There was also an adorable chimp that has appeared in multiple movies!  He was so cute...I didn't get a pic though!

Stay tuned for more pics from our Florida adventure!