Animal Kingdom

Posing with Rafiki from Lion King. 

On the advice of a dear college friend who lost her battle with cancer last summer, we did the safari early the morning while the animals were still awake and alert.  (Side note:  Kelly was the biggest Walt Disney fan I've ever known.  She took many, many trips to Disney during her life -- including several with her own children, and even got engaged at Cinderella's Castle.  At one of her chemotherapy appointments nearly two years ago, I took pages of notes based on her past Disney experiences. Thank you, Kelly, for helping make our first family trip to Disney spectacular.  We miss you!!  xoxoxo)

Goofy waiting to meet Goofy (and Pluto).

Grammy took Bree to visit Donald while the rest of us attempted to use our DINOSAUR FastPass (another scary ride that she wasn't interested in....).  Sadly, the ride broke down (!!!) while we were in line.  Guess it's better that it broke down while we were in line vs. on it!

Afternoon delight.

Seeing characters at Disney isn't as easy as it used to be.  We waited in line for our one and only opportunity to see Mickey and Minnie, and I wasn't going to let Aiden off the hook this time.  He was none too happy about having his picture taken with the Disney icons.

Brienne brought special gifts for Mickey and Minnie all the way from home.  I wasn't sure if they were going to be allowed (or willing) to accept her tokens, but much to my delight they played right into it.  She was thrilled!

Taking a little breather while the boys are on a scary ride (The Primeval Whirl).

Daisy was so adorable.  I think she was one of my personal favorites.  :-)