Magic Kingdom

Oh, Magic Kingdom, my heart belongs to you!

Following a dramatic bus ride (we barely made it on, though we had been first in line!), we finally arrived at our most-sought-after location: Magic Kingdom! No words can truly express the beauty, vibrance, and excitement of stepping into its magical storybook setting. As we walked the picturesque Main Street, steeped in culture, music, and familiar characters, our hearts soared.  Yes, we were experiencing the magical heart of Disney, and it was perfect. 

Characters waved at us from doorsteps! Grinning cast members blew colorful bubbles that soared into the air! Music seemed to pump from the very unseen veins of this living kingdom! Then, suddenly, we caught our first sight of that famous castle rising into the bright cerulean sky. Oh, what a magical day! Indeed, since we were in line before the park actually opened, we were able to enjoy several rides line-free before the crowds arrived, and that alone felt like a miracle.

As we moved from ride to ride and set to set, it was a day filled with pure joy.  Everywhere you looked, there was something beautiful and adventurous to see.  When we were hungry, we stopped and used our Quick Service meal plan.  If we saw an attraction that caught our fancy, we went for it.  Time seemed suspended in a lovely, liquid bubble.  Although we spent nearly twelve hours at Magic Kingdom, we were unable to experience everything.  Still, it was the best day of our trip, in my opinion.

Some highlights from Magic Kingdom:

(1) Pirates of the Caribbean was everyone's favorite ride, hands-down.  We caught it right away that morning without a line, then came back in the afternoon for more uncrowded fun.  I lost count of how many times we rode, but it was the perfect attraction for all of us.

(2) At one point, we had lost track of time and it was beginning to lightly rain.  Wandering aimlessly, we suddenly found ourselves on a picturesque street lined with expectant people.  I glanced at the time and realized the Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade was about to start!  Miraculously, a group of men offered us their front-row spots, and we settled in just as the parade appeared.  Both Ava and Hudson kept dry in their stroller, while greeting a dizzying array of Disney characters who danced their way past and stopped for a quick smile or handshake.  We couldn't have planned it any better if we tried!

(3) For supper, we had scheduled a meal at Cinderella's Royal Table, located right inside the castle.  We were anticipating this event all day, and it did not disappoint.  In fact, this experience deserves its own post, so watch for more details on that coming tomorrow!

(4) As we were leaving the park, with twilight descending, a sudden and strong thunderstorm churned itself up.  We were literally running for the bus lines, but had to detour under a nearby ferry tent.  There we waited out the storm with a friendly staff member who offered to hold an umbrella near Hudson, who was upset by the blowing wind and rain.  In fact, when the storm stopped but the heavy rain did not, this man offered to walk us over to the bus lines with his umbrella over the kids.  This is why I love Disney, because seriously every employee there is like this: warm, welcoming, and cheerfully helpful.  Thanks, dude!