Our normal first ride at AK is Kilimanjaro Safaris and it did not disappoint. The animals were up and active and it’s always fun to see what ones will come close to the truck. Our driver was wonderful and we learned lots of new things about the animals.
During this ride Hannah did something that shocked me! As we went by one of the unusual animals and the driver pointed it out, Hannah pointed to the display of animals on the ‘animal map’ on the ceiling of the jeep and said, ‘right there Mommy.’ And….she was right!!!
There are about 50 animals displayed on this map and she knew exactly where it was! Hannah seems to have a real memory for pictures and places and I know this gift will be helpful during her life! This is the animal we saw. I can’t remember what it’s called but I think if I ask Hannah she’ll remember!
One of the rides I’ve longed to go on since it was built was Expedition Everest but it had never worked out. This trip with Nana allowed me to opportunity to ride as she stayed with the girls and what fun it was! It’s on my ‘to do’ list again when Hannah gets tall enough to ride it!
We made our way to DinoLand and enjoyed a few of the offerings there. A ride on Triceratop Spin is similar to Dumbo without the wait.
Next it was on to The Boneyard for some playtime. Bec Bec was amazing the entire trip and here she happily ran through the playground with Hannah. That doesn’t sound like much but it was hot, hot, HOT (100oF plus high humidity this day) and the Boneyard is in the sun so she was a big helper when she offered to go with her. It was fun but we didn’t stay long as it was just too hot to let the girls run around for long.
Our next stop was a treat for so many reasons. We went to see ‘Finding Nemo: The Musical’ and it was AMAZING!! The immediate bonus was that it was in an air conditioned theatre but aside from that the show is breath-taking!! It’s hard to describe but it’s a bit of a play but done with huge puppets. I really can’t describe it but here’s a little snippet of it.
We slowly wandered (well, some wandered while Hannah hitched a ride and spritzed herself with a water fan)
across the park and watched another show, ‘Festival of The Lion King’ which was also great! Hannah was chosen at one point to take part in the show and at first she did really well! She went with the gal and stood with her for about 30 seconds before she decided that this wasn’t for her. The gal was great as she made sure to wave at Hannah a few times after that and came over to wave good-bye at the end of the show.
It’s cute because Hannah talks about the show and about her part and then she says, ‘I want Mommy. Wahhh!’ and does a little pretend cry. This is followed by, ‘Next time, I want to walk with shaker’ so she wasn’t traumatized.
The show was followed by some character time. On days when fans like this could be found all over the park,
I felt bad for the characters! Thankfully they’re not out for long before they head to the back for a quick snack.
Mrs. Bunny
Donald
and Minnie
At this point Hannah crashed in my arms as we made our way to the bus stop. I transferred her to Rebecca before we boarded and you can see that this didn’t interrupt her nap in the least!
That night for supper we had reservations at my favourite non-character restaurant, the Kona Cafe located in the Polynesian Resort. They have a teriyaki steak there that is melt in your mouth delicious!! For dessert I chose a chocolate fondue that Hannah was only too happy to help me eat!
I guess it’s comes as no surprise that a bath was in order when we returned to the room!
We don't do a lot at AK, but the things you did are our favourite. Nemo has to be my favourite show anywhere in Disney, and Lion King is a close second.
ReplyDeleteWe also like the Safari, and if I'm feeling brave, then we'll do Everest.
The only thing you need to add to your day is a meal at Yak and Yeti (Quick Service) and you would have had my perfect AK day.