We spent our day finding “Hidden Mickeys” around Epcot, visiting favorite rides and trying new ones. Disney continues to amaze us with their attention to detail. We tried the Living with the Land ride today. It was one of those things where we were in the area for something else but there was no line so we decided to try it. Well, it is absolutely amazing what they are doing with cultivating plants. Did you know you could grow a tomato tree?

We are most proud of our new approach to staying hydrated and unencumbered at the same time. We brought the camel pack that Jeremy uses for work and we picked up a second one before we left. Both have zippered pockets and a mesh pouch. This morning we filled the bags with ice and water. We used the pockets and pouch to hold ponchos, individual Gatorade packets and snacks. This way we had cold water all day without needing to carry or buy water bottles. We both agreed this will be the plan in the future for any theme park.

So, as I type this we are back in the room and totally exhausted. We had an amazing dinner at the Swan hotel and then explored the Boardwalk. Jeremy is watching his Disney cartoon channel and despite the cup of coffee I had less than an hour ago I’m ready to drift off. I’m not even planning in proofreading this post.

I mentioned earlier that you all are safe thanks to the secret agents who took time to save the world (twice) while visiting Epcot. It just reminds me how wonderful it is to go through life feeling safe. I’m grateful that when we go places I feel so safe with Jeremy. I have no doubt that that he would protect me if someone tried to hurt us. But I also know that he is protecting me when he doesn’t tell other people when I do something embarrassing. I know I am safe to say what I’m thinking or feeling. So, I guess you and I are both safe.

There was a a part of me that was (just slightly) concerned about our hotel, even though it’s a Disney resort it’s only $70/night. However, it is after all Disney – so of course it’s clean and so well themed that we spent 45 minutes exploring and taking pictures. We ran into some people we know from home, so it turns out ‘it’s a small world after all.’

We made our way to the Outlet Mall, along with half the other people in Orlando. I was able to find some amazing deals at The Loft, but overall we were disappointed. They have made some changes to their food court, none of which include more tables or better food. Also, quite a few stores have left the complex so it is almost entirely clothes and shoes. We were looking forward to visiting some of the kitchen stores and who doesn’t want a good as seen on TV shop? We decided (and would recommend) that next time we are going to check the list of current stores online before we try to brave the heat and the crowds.

We rounded out our evening with dinner at Bongos in Downtown Disney. We ate there last year when we were exhausted and couldn’t get a seat anywhere else. It was so good that this year we intentionally made plans to go there on this trip. It was everything we were hoping for and a great way to end the evening. We did feel a left out when it started to feel as though every other table had someone celebrating a birthday. (Ashley – it more than just a song, they get out the bongo drums, each and every time.)

So, now we are settling in for the night. Everything we need is laid out for tomorrow and Jeremy has found a channel that is playing all old Disney cartoons. He uploaded a couple of pictures from the hotel to our Flickr page. Click here for photos.

Kate

My mother has engrained in me a need to clean before I can go out of town – so our floors are mopped and clutter is cleared. We managed to secure a renowned house-sitter for while we are gone. We are going to meet with her this evening as our last act of preparation and then we’re ready. If it was up to me we would get in the car as soon as we were packed, however I’m not in charge so we are leaving tomorrow.

We’ll keep you up to date on how things are going. Jeremy has the iMovie app so we can even edit and upload video before we get to the next ride. Already today we have figured out a recipe for our own coffee frappé and Jeremy is taking me to Taverna Opa for dinner. We are also super excited about our first trip with the iPhones – they will be our cameras, video cameras, Internet connection, note holders and if necessary they can be used to make phone calls.

I am most looking forward to uninterrupted quality time with the most amazing husband and friend I could ever imagine.