The DeYoungs and the Breens met this morning to take the bus over to Animal Kingdom. We met them in the park, about 20 minutes before our first fast pass. So, to use up some of the time, we walked the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. We enjoyed the exotic birds, gorillas, hippos and more!
There's a hippo behind all those fish. I couldn't see it at first but its there. Amazing!
On the walk out, Uncle Jeff realized he had lost his Magic Band on our walk and ran back through to find it. Luckily someone had turned it in to a cast member and he had it back on his wrist in no time. By now it was time for us to do the Kilimanjaro Safari. We saw lots of animals on the way and the kids LOVED it.
Once we had a ride time, we let Uncle Jeff know since he had shown interest in joining us. Then we headed over to use the restrooms and get our family photo taken.
We met Jeff in front of the coaster and got our spot in line. It was a great thrill ride with some of the time riding backwards and some in the dark (and sometimes both at the same time!).
We had to head to the front of the park for our lunch reservation. But on the way we noticed a short wait time at Its Tough To Be A Bug! so we stopped to take in the show. On the way, we were dive bombed by a group of colorful parrots after their show. We all ducked on the sidewalk as they flew overhead.
We all met for lunch at the Rain Forest Cafe. Dessert (the volcano) was everyone's favorite!
After we got back in the park, we all walked to our next fastpass at Kali River Rapids.
Bev and Ray decided to join us for the show of Finding Nemo. Then we rushed across the park to arrive just in time to watch the Lion King. Sarah and Jeff had already sat down and decided not to join us in the handicap seating. To our surprise, Sammy was asked to join the show! She stood up and danced and then followed a parade around the outside of the center stage as the "animals" danced in the show.
At this point, Sarah, mom and the DeYoung kids decided to head home for the day. Ray and Jeff joined us for a return ride on Expedition Everest.
It was a fun time of day to ride as the sun went down.
On our way out, Tyler mentioned a ride that he had earlier decided NOT to ride. He was beginning to regret his decision. So, I asked Scott if he'd mind if I went on one more ride with Tyler. Of course, Sammy wanted to come along as well. So the kids and I hit the Dinosaur ride as Scott, Jeff and Dad headed home.
This was the ride that left the kids terrified last time. They both swore they would never return! But tonight, it was all smiles (contrary to what it looks like in the picture). As we walked out, Tyler thanked me repeatedly for letting him try again and said he thought "we made a good memory out of a bad one!" I was pretty proud of them both!
At this point, Sarah, mom and the DeYoung kids decided to head home for the day. Ray and Jeff joined us for a return ride on Expedition Everest.
It was a fun time of day to ride as the sun went down.
When we returned home, everyone was feeling pretty hungry so we headed to the quick service restaurant at the lobby. Our family ran next door to rent some movies for the kids.
Once we got home, we made a bed for Sammy in the pull-out couch in the living room and let her watch her movie while Tyler watched shows in their bedroom. (She ended up sleeping out there.) Scott and I headed to bed as well. Today wasn't so bad but the other two days took their toll and I needed to catch up on some rest.
