in which we take a break from driving

We got to stop at a museum called Turtle Bay for a couple of hours.  It was so fun to take a break from driving.  As we entered the museum there was a sign saying there was a spider loose inside and that we should keep an eye open for it.  What? Turtle found it first.  A giant tarantula.  Luckily it was under glass and made of Legos. 

There were several different things going on in this museum.  For example, there were living creatures in their own 'habitats'.

 

There was a demonstration of how erosion works in nature.  This was very interesting to watch.  It's amazing how fast things can change all due to a little stream of water.  Dad really liked this part, mainly because it fits into what he teaches at school.

 There was a display of old things for the kids to see.

 This was something unique.  We all loved looking at the creations of Nathan Sawaya. His work with Legos is so unique and creative. We took pictures of a few of our favorites.

 Part of what he does is work with a photographer and creates pieces that can be used as 'props' and can be seen in a realistic scene.  You can see this with the umbrella.  You can read more about that here.

 

 Another part of the museum was outside where you can see animals.  This is a barn owl, the same that you can read about in the books "Guardians of GaHoole."  Buddy really likes reading those books right now.

 This is called the Sundial Bridge and it spans the Sacramento River. 

 

It was a fun time out of our busy driving schedule.  We enjoyed the break, but it was so very hot outside, that we didn't take time to enjoy the botanical gardens the museum has to offer.  I linked the things that I found interesting in this post.  Click on the links to find more about them.