Have you hugged an alligator today?

Yesterday we went for a ride to explore some state parks in the Everglades. Along the way we came across a big sign attached to a van in a gas station parking lot that said "Hug an alligator" Doug decided we really needed a picture of me hugging an alligator. Notice he did not volunteer to hold it!

 This was a young one, never thought to ask the age, having too much fun posing with it.

I was asked how it feels and it was dry and smooth, just like leather. The spines on top weren't sharp either. 

I kept laughing so most of the pictures had my mouth open