4.5 miles in 45 minutes on the "expressway"

Yes we had a wonderful time at the zoo. Drove there in less than 2 hours with no problems at all. On the way home all I can say is UGH we left at 4 and got home at 8:45! I can't even imagine what time I would have gotten home if I didn't call a lifesaver of a friend who rerouted me around all of the crazy traffic! Thank you Sara!!! What did I learn from all of this? Have an alternate route handy!