We had a fantabulous time this past week taking in all that Disney had to offer. Four parks over 6 days leaving only an arrival and departure day…not a relaxing vacation but who gets that with young children anyway? They were happy which made us enjoy our time and adventures.
The day we arrived, we got settled into our “home for a week” and it began to storm. They boys thought “our vacation was ruined.” Little did they know all that was in store. So, as what is typical for FL, the storm moved through and we were still able to go out and enjoy the lazy river, pools and even a craft activity.
The next day, the journey began. First was a world visit at Epcot. As it was the flower festival, there were brought colors and floral character sculptures EVERYWHERE…what a beautiful sight. Soarin’ was Jesse’s favorite as we seemed to sail the CA sky. We also had our first character meal at the Garden Grill which moved slowly around while we ate and visited with Chip, Dale, Pluto and Mickey. It is there that we learned of the resemblance between Eric and Dale missing their two front teeth.
Tuesday we went to MGM Studios….lots of movie sights, sounds, and shows. We had breakfast with the Little Einsteins, JoJo and Goliath. We saw the Power Rangers, Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and more. We attended an animation session to learn how to draw Mickey Mouse. It started out a bit bumpy as I unwisely chose to ride the Tower of Terror and Rock N’ Roller Coaster first thing in the morning, but the day improved and my stomach eventually returned back to where it belongs. We even made it to the 9pm show of Fantasmic which was an amazing show that we all really enjoyed.
Especially for Eric, Wednesday was the long-awaited Animal Kingdom day. Unfortunately, the day began with another upset and he and I initially stayed back to rest, relax and gain back some strength. After a whirlpool bath and a nap, we joined the others at the park. It was a low-key day attending all of the shows and movie rather than attempt any rides. However, this helped Eric regain his energy and appetite and this was a good day as well.
Thursday was the Magna Carte – the Magic Kingdom. Reading up on strategy from a borrowed book, we took on Fantasyland and the long awaited Dumbo. With an early start, we were able to conquer many other rides in that area with minimal wait. We made our way over to Splash Mountain, some traditional shows and other rides and then headed for Tomorrowland. The Buzz Lightyear ride was neat as you got the laser shoot many things as you moved through and the Stitch adventure was a little nerve-wracking but very neat also. This was another late evening to see the Spectromagic parade. Only Jesse did not make it to the Wishes firework show which began at a late ten o’clock.
Friday, the four of us returned to Animal Kingdom as Eric wanted to conquer Everest and see the Yeti that was promised. He did so THREE times and also went on some of the other rides. We attended the Pocahontas animal training session which allowed us to see a porcupine up close and learn more about how they train animals to perform. Rafiki’s Planet Watch allowed us to meet and greet Jiminy Cricket, Pocahontas, Rafiki and a real snake (well, the boys touched, I just watched and snapped pictures from a safe distance).
Saturday, Jon ended up in a funk that kept him in and out of it the whole day. Jesse wasn’t feeling well but give it his best shot at the Magic Kingdom to take in more. Unfortunately, that only lasted a few hours and it was his turn for the bug that was getting passed along. The Disney staff kindly gave us a ride back to the resort and we had to cover our eyes as we departed the park from the behind-the-scenes parking lot. After supplying them with some fluids and a little bit of safe food, I headed out to meet up with Eric and my Mom at Downtown Disney. This was our final stop and souvenir search. One of the cashier’s actually gave Eric a pin of Dale as we showed her how he looked like him with his spaced out toothy smile. After some tough shopping decisions, we headed back to pack up and prepare for the next morning’s departure.
What an incredible journey. Jesse was quite the trooper and loved character meetings and hugs. Meanwhile, a tall Eric was tall and brave enough for most of the thrilling big rides. Mix lots of sun and some swimming in and there you have our most recent vacation. Although we had tired feet, minds and even stomachs after many long days, we still enjoyed our time together at the happiest place on earth. May this cheer be shared with you in reading this narrative and through seeing some of the many pictures from this adventure as well.
