The new Nebraska State tourism motto reads, “Honestly, it’s not for everyone,” but we were pretty fond of it. Before we landed there we managed to squeeze out a few really good drops of Minneapolis including visits with Sam’s Uncle John & Aunt Ann, a happy hour cocktail with Reggie at the Kitty Cat Klub in Dinkytown, and one last meal with our fabulous hosts. Leaving was bittersweet – it was tough to say goodbye, but we were also very much looking forward to the next chapter of our travels.
The drive to Omaha was pretty uneventful, but still a beautiful drive into the plains for this girl who is used to driving through the New York State’s hilly terrain. We decided to stop for some gas in Iowa and snag a geocache before reaching our destination: Omaha! It has become a small goal of mine to collect one in every state we visit. So far, we are pleasantly surprised by the roadside attractions these geocaches have brought us to!
Omaha was a must-visit on our road trip. It is the home of both Sam’s Aunt Katie, and his sister Molly. We had only visited Omaha briefly around this time last year, so we were pleased to have the chance to visit again to see family and more of what the area has to offer. Fortunately for us, Sam’s sister works for the Henry Doorly Zoo, so of course we were afforded a special VIP tour of some of the exhibits. And, in case you weren’t aware, it happens to hold the rank as one of the world’s best zoo’s! (I personally, think it’s because of Molly!).
Kiwi was also having the time of her life! Katie and her husband John so graciously gave us their time and a place to stay, and we all felt so welcome in their home. We enjoyed so many delicious meals with them, and Kiwi was entertained by their two goofy canine companions for the weekend, Maggie & Lucy. I loved seeing Kiwi just melt in John’s arms when they had their little “talks”. It was really a treat for all three of us to be able spend so much time with them.
Our visit also allowed us to enjoy the best parts of the fall season – Sam and I took a jog around Zorinsky Lake and got to celebrate Halloween with party at Molly’s. We were extra giddy about temps reaching the 60’s again. It seems as though we’re chasing great leaf peeping as we head further south and west!
Our last adventure brought us to the Wildlife Safari Park, a tour courtesy of Molly and her boyfriend Jake. The drive-through park allows visitors to see animal species native to Nebraska up close in their natural (but controlled) habitat: black bears, elk, prairie dogs, bald eagles, pelicans, cranes, wolves, and bison. What a treat! There were a few that came close to the car which made me a little nervous! We were so lucky to have two expert tour guides sharing all of their fun bits of info about the animals and the park. It’s clear they are both passionate about their work – it was truly inspiring and we are so very proud of them.
Tomorrow, we move on to South Dakota. Hard to believe we have more adventures that await us! More on that soon…
Going Over There 
Love to see all your adventures!!
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Jac, your opening picture is just breath-taking. Sooo beautiful! Love Aunt Martha
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