Epcot

We are visiting Walt Disney World this week with Will and his family. Anders was more than eager when we arrived at their home on Saturday evening. I read to him at bedtime, and when we were finished, he turned his head to whisper in my ear, "I'm so excited about going to Disney World!" Well, for a Grandpa, that's worth the price of admission right there!

I guess Anders had not been on an airplane for quite a few years and may not have remembered his prior experience, so the flight to Florida was a big part of the adventure too.

His dad had fun explaining everything to him, and though we adults thought a nap might be a good idea, there was too much to see out the window, including the activities and details at the airports and the clouds and sights on the ground as we flew.

A big stretch limo took us from the Orlando airport to our hotel. We adults enjoyed seeing the Florida scenes (first time here for Will), but Anders preferred the movie playing on the TVs in the vehicle.

We have a nice suite at the Beach Club Resort with two bedrooms and a small living space and kitchenette. (So, I'm enjoying some morning coffee while I compose this!) Since this particular resort is so close to Epcot, we decided to spend our first afternoon there, just a five minute walk from our lodging.

Since it was past lunchtime when we arrived, we started with some fish and chips at the England setting within Epcot. All the various country settings there are fun to visit.

This spring, Epcot is hosting a special International Flower & Garden Festival, so in addition to all the usual sights, the grounds are covered with all kinds of plants, flowers, and lots of Disney-themed topiary displays. I thought this scene from Peter Pan offered Will and Anders a good chance to pose.

We wandered through a butterfly garden along the way too.

In Canada, we watched one of the 360º films that are featured here and there throughout Epcot. The one, hosted by Martin Short, included beautiful views of Canada's scenes, wildlife, and cities. I managed to set my camera so that these three were unaware of the pictures I took of them as they watched, so I like the fascination you can see on their faces.

OK, here is the definitive proof that we were actually in Epcot.

Anders loved the area devoted to the Cars movies. The topiary really was impressive throughout the park.

Near Mexico, we had a chance to see Donald Duck. We saw many Disney characters throughout the day, and I know we'll see many more during the rest of our visit in the other parks.

Of course, Mickey and Minnie have to be included!

We ended the day with a nice dinner and then saw the amazing fireworks and light show over the lake that sits in the middle of Epcot. After that, it was past due time for bed.

As soon as the rest of my family is up and about, we'll have some breakfast and will then venture to the Magic Kingdom!