Disney World (part one)

We are home from our week in Orlando and had the most fabulous time! I was invited to give a talk at a conference in Tampa so we turned it into a week long vacation once we realized how close the conference was to Disney World. We spent two days at Magic Kingdom, one day at Downtown Disney, and two days playing at our resort (including a visit by Lori's brother and sister-in-law!).

There are really no words to describe how much fun we all had on this trip. This was our first family vacation and the best part was watching the joy on the girls faces as they discovered this whole new world. Ellie is usually a pretty timid kid, but she let go of all her inhibitions and had a great time. We were worried that Audrey wouldn't have much fun since she is so little, but she really enjoyed most of what we did (she would point at things and say "Wow!"). We cannot wait to go back!

These are pictures from our first day at Magic Kingdom...

Waiting for Magic Kingdom to open

Watching the opening ceremonies

Dumbo, one of Ellie's favorite rides!

Ellie and Audrey ready for the 3D movie!

Ellie meeting Ariel (the Little Mermaid). This was one of the most special moments because she was the first character that Ellie met. We were worried that she would be scared, but she ran up to her with her arms outstretched!

We had lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table where we met all of the princesses. Ellie loved it and it was definitely one of her favorite things about Disney.

Riding the Tea Cups!

Our first ears!

Trying to cool down while waiting for the afternoon parade to begin.

Audrey took a much needed nap during the parade.

In front of the castle

After Magic Kingdom, we went back to the resort and went swimming. This is Ellie in front of the biggest of the six pools! There was a sunken ship to play in and lots of fun slides.