We wanted to do a special excursion trip for Cole's birthday, like we did for Franny when we took her to the American Girl store.  Cole's choice was to go to the aquarium in Newport, and then to OSU for bowling.  We set aside one day to make the trip and see the aquarium.  He had a great time, although I'm not sure how much of the aquarium he actually saw.  But, he thought it was great because it was his special birthday trip, and even more so when he found out that Grandma and Grandpa were joining us!  For Cole, it was the best way to spend his first day as a five year old!