I always give Evan a choice of what kind of adventure – maybe a little bit of a guided choice if I have a particular errand to run, though he’s generally happy to help me with those as well. But today he made the decision long before I even asked him about an adventure. Two words. Big. Foosh (which sometimes sounds like woosh).

His interest of choice lately seems to be fish, so a favorite  place to visit has been the pet store.  He’s very serious as he talks about their eyesand how they swim (in the water, he likes to point out). He talks about them eating all their foodand we’re working on their colors. After visiting all the tanks, he always finds a few to return to before we go to visit the mice, gerbils, hamsters and rats. Bonus points if they have playful ferrets to watch.

He reminds me of myself as he wanders through the store, wanting to look at everything (and then returning to the fish for one last look). We often run into other little kids likely on the same adventure, but he’s rarely distracted from his routine (but doesn’t hesitate to tell other kids to be quiet if they aren’t using a respectable inside voice – and no running!). It’s these trips where I usually pick up some food for my own fish or a toy for Nellieand he’s happy to help, proudly carrying what I need and handing it to the cashier.

I love watching the birds, the parakeets specifically, the most. There is always one that reminds me of Buddy and his happy little chirps.  You never realize how quiet a home is until you’ve had a bird and then lost him. Even with a dog to greet you at the door, it doesn’t make up for the loving and excited bird that’s happy to have you home.

The Interbay Petco seems to be the best place to visit. Located next to a smaller Whole Foods, the store is relatively new.  Unlike the one on 15th, it’s bright, clean, and the friendly staff seems to recognize the fact that they are a fun activity rather than just a shop.