Sea Life Michigan Aquarium

Sea Life MichiganIn May of 2015 my family made a visit to Sea Life Michigan, at the request of my girls (ages 10 and 13).  Having been to many aquariums in many cities, we were not sure what to expect, especially since this one is located at a mall (Great Lakes Crossing).

We ordered our tickets in advance, as that is what is recommended on the Sea Life Michigan website to ensure entry.  It is a very new attraction, and due to the size they let in a limited amount of people at one time.

As we walked in, the kids received a “DIVE Log Book” with a question on each page.  Once they find the answer to the question, they are to collect a “stamp” at the dive station.  They present their log book at the end of the tour for a prize.

Creatures at Sea Life Michigan

The tanks were well laid out, and there were a ton of interactive displays including “bubbles” they could stand up in to be “inside” the tanks.  The touch pool was very small, but the attendants were knowledgable, and very interested in helping the kids understand what they were touching, as well as how the animals eat, live, and interact with their environment.

Enjoying the Touch Pool at Sea Life Michigan

I really enjoyed this aquarium a lot, and even my big kids had a great time.

Big Kids having fun at Sea Life Michigan

The tank displays are amazing, including this one at the end of the tour – my favorite!

Tank Art - Sea Life Michigan

Bottom line?  If you are looking for a huge aquarium attraction with everything under the sun and a full day of viewing, you may be disappointed with the size of this cozy aquarium.  However, it packs in a ton of interactive fun into a small space, and I liked the fact that it was not an all day event.  My kids LOVED it.

Se Life Selfie (Groupie?)

I SCORED A GOAL by Robby Davis

I Scored A Goal - Poem by Robby Davis (age 7)

I SCORED A GOAL by Robby Davis (age 7 years)

Scared to go, but have to go

Parents watching, Coaches watching

Blades on skates as sharp as knives

Bumping into people, bumping into walls

Falling on the ice, Bruises by the second

Time running out

Score a Goal

Just in time

We won

I’m proud of myself

This kid’s love of hockey is brought to you by Chelsea Hockey Association.

Also, I may be biased, but I think my boy may be a literary genius. 🙂

Dear Alex

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Alex

Dear Alex,

You’ve always been a little weird, in a good way. A fun, generous, kind hearted way.  You are my beautiful free spirit, my sunshine, my summer storm.

You will never know how my heart swells with love every time I see you with your mismatched clothes and untied shoes, and your smile that can light up the darkest room – you truly are my sunshine.

2015-05-10_0001Do you remember the time you asked Daddy what he would do if a monster came, and he said he would fight it and you said “oh, so you will die first?”.  How about your very first haircut, that you received at the hands of your big sister?  Speaking of your big sister, did you know that when you were in my tummy she wanted to name you “Snake”?  And none of us will ever forget the day I asked you what you wanted to be when you grew up and you answered, “A Bear”. Of course you want to be a bear, because, why not??

2015-05-10_0005You cannot imagine how proud I am of you for everything that you are growing up to be.  How happy I am to just be with you, and to watch you live your life with enthusiasm and joy.  I see you growing into an amazing athlete, and love that you have so much passion for all sports.  My favorite thing of all is to watch the way your face lights up when you are on the ice – THAT is what life is all about.  Embrace it Alex, and know that I will always be here cheering you on.

2015-05-10_0004Don’t ever change, Allie-gator Tater.  Stay true to your unique and amazing self and you will go far.  Love you always baby girl.

Love,

Mom

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Dear Riley

www.tressiedavisphotographyDear Riley,

My fierce athlete, smart and beautiful. My little girl who is not so little anymore.  I cannot believe you are 13.  THIRTEEN.  A Teenager.  Where has the time gone?

You will never know how very wanted you were, from the very beginning.  How patiently I waited for my first little girl – preparing with loads of pink and pretty things.  Oh, if I had only known that I should prepare with BLUE!  Blue for Michigan, Blue for Finesse and Chelsea Sports, Blue for Denim and sunny skies and your gorgeous eyes.

2015-05-05_0006Your creativity knows no bounds, and never has – remember the time you colored Alex head to toe with a blue sharpie? (Blue, there it is again ha ha)  What about the time you pulled the stuffing out of our couch for your art project?  The couch may be sad (and so was I for a minute), but I adore watching you create.

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Your energy is boundless, especially when it comes to your sports that I so love to watch you play.  You were feisty from the very beginning, and we smiled as you grew into your bossiness leadership skills which have served you well in sports and academics.  My heart swells with pride not only for your performance on the field/court, but when I see you on the sidelines cheering on and encouraging your team mates – always.

2015-05-05_0005My heart skips a beat when you turn to look at me with that brilliant smile and giggle when we are sharing a funny moment.  Sharing the moments – this means so much to me, more than you can imagine.

2015-05-05_0007As you are growing up, I want you to know that forever and always I will be there for you and have your back.  You will always be my baby girl….I love you so much.

Happy Birthday Riley!!!

Love,

Mom

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