The wife and I had been talking about it for a while but I hadn't actually proposed until one night when we were laying in bed and a day full of fun filled excitement. At that point I just looked at her and told her after being with her I couldn't imagine my life with out her and asked her if she would, obviously she said yes.

Actually the zoo idea sounds prettty rad, I think she would really dig it. Also it doen't matter how cliche something is, it matters if she finds it to be special or not and that is all that matters. You might have to do it earlier or later then expected since you said the zoo is closed that time of year. Good thing is just because your engaged doesn't mean you have to run off and get married right away.

My sister has been engauged for almost a year adn a half and her wedding isn't for a few more months.

So thats my story, sorry if it doesn't help much.