Disney Magic

I keep bumping in to friends and colleagues who ask, "How was Disney? Did Whitley just love it?" And every time, I feel my face light up as I tell them it really was the most wonderful trip. I think Stacy is right- "Nine adults and three kids is the way to go!" :) Our whole group was so happy to be there together, and having so many people allowed for a lot of flexibility with watching the kids and taking turns on the rides. I hadn't been since high school, so I was excited about experiencing everything again myself. But then to add the joy of seeing Whitley's delight made it a vacation I will always treasure. Can't wait to go again when she's a bit older!

We had read that it was key to arrive at the parks just before they open, and that seemed to prove true for us. (We were able to accomplish so much in the mornings before the lines got long!) Plus, it was worth the early arrival if only to see the characters pull in aboard a train, and welcome us to the Magic Kingdom with a song! The excitement in the crowd was palpable.

It's almost time!

We ran right to Peter Pan's ride. I took a picture in the dark, and was pleased to actually see Stacy, David, and CC. (Well, sort of see 'em.)

The merry-go-round is always a hit- even more so when it's Cinderella's!

Our whole crew piled in to a Small World boat. I lucked out with Drewby on my lap! He's taking it all in, very seriously, as he tends to do.

Plenty of teacups for everyone, too!

Whitley rode with Grammy and Papa.

Oooooh, waiting in the dark for Pirates of the Caribbean.

Aladdin's Magic Carpet was one of Whitley's favorites. It went higher than I thought- I got a little nervous!

Another classic- the Jungle Cruise.

The kids really liked watching the parades, so we tried to get a good viewing spot for one whenever we could. (OK, who am I kidding, I think we all really liked the parades.) We're waiting for the Celebrate Dreams Come True one here.

In awe of all the characters and floats going by. (I actually think this was when the Beast pointed at Whitley, and then folded his hands over his heart. He blew her kisses and pantomimed that he was in love!)

Everyone's favorite mouse couple!

At Epcot, we attended "Turtle Talk With Crush" twice. It was such a cute, interactive show.

"A little chum for Chum."

(That's a line from Finding Nemo, in case you're not as Pixar literate as I have grown to be. hee hee)

Sweet hug for Grammy.

Family photo at Epcot.

Whitley knew all the big landmarks for each park by the end of the trip! She still talks about Cinderella's castle, the big ball, and Mickey's hat.

Beautiful day for traveling around the world!

Sister shot.

I miss you, Disney! And I miss my family! Thanks to everyone who went and made the trip so special. XOXOXO