Uda-Where?: Animal Kingdom

The forecast said to expect rain in the morning. The ominous clouds rolled over us. As we got out of the car they opened up and poured rain as we walked to the entrance. Halfway to the turnstiles there was a covered pavilion where of course, conveniently, there was a Disney worker selling ponchos who had her first customers of the day.

SHOULD WE STAY OR GO?
We decided to go for it (much to Zach's dismay) with the hopes that it would clear, and by lunch time it did. We filled our morning with shows followed by an extended hot lunch indoors. The first show was "It's Tough To Be A Bug," which has permanently damaged Graham's perception of Bugs. We were up front right next to the spot where the giant evil grasshopper comes out and it terrified him. Since that trip he even freaks out if a fly comes near. After that we saw the "Nemo" the musical which was really good.

In the past, Animal Kingdom had been my least favorite park, but I've changed my mind now. We had never gone to the shows before, but with the kiddos and weather we saw them all and really enjoyed them. Also having to escape a Yeti on the Himalayan roller coaster adds a major bonus to the park. Don't let those turned stomachs below fool you .....THEY LOVED THE RIDE!

The Himalayan Outpost gift shop also had some unique pieces. Who can pass up a blue fiber optic mullet wig? Not me. Also they had Christmas ornaments made from air canisters retrieved from the real Mount Everest. One climber was disgusted with all the garbage left over from expeditions and decided to do something about it. So, now we own a piece of someone's adventure garbage. :)

I'm not sure how we got so lucky, but during this week someone from our family was picked to participate in almost every show that took volunteers. This time it was Aunt Ryanne's turn. They had this giant bird fly from the back of the theater, swoop down, and land right behind her.

Everyone, especially Zach was much happier halfway through the day as the rain stopped and his stomach settled. We actually look like we're sorta enjoying our day together! ;)

Chris had only one thing on his list this day and everything else was trivial in his eyes.

While the kids took a break to beat some drums instead of each other.....

he sought out the refreshment of all refreshment in his eyes. After much searching he finally found the kiosk that sold a....

COKE SLURPEE!
In the end I'm not sure he got much with 3 little sharers.
Lesson learned.

These 3 little cuties weren't quite sure about one another at first. It was very much a love hate relationship as usually goes with toddlers.

But Graham REALLY decided he loved baby H. and let him know often. So often that he passed on pink eye and a nasty cold that we didn't know was brewing. By the end of the week they were equally affectionate.

One trip on my list of places to go with the kids is a real African Safari. A group from Aramco goes each year but I want to wait and go on a more "Younger Family Friendly" one. For now we just have to settle for this.

Which didn't really feel like settling because it really is an enjoyable ride.

Unlike the Jungle Cruise, where Disney Animatronics are on display, these are the real deal.

These animals do have it good as they are fed on time and apparently have A/C piped in when it's hot. That way when they relax by the vents it also a good viewing point for us.

Our last show of the day was from the Lion King with wonderful music, high flying monkeys that picked and ate imaginary bugs out of our kids hair. And once again the kids got to participate, which they loved.

The last hour before the park closed we decided to divide and conquer. Lauren and I went back the Himalayan Coaster to use up the last stroller pass. Reggie, C, and Zach went on a Dino adventure.

While Chris and Ryanne took the rest of the kiddos on one last Safari in hopes they might get a better look at some of the animals.