Congratulations on a Great Accomplishment!

A hearty congratulations to our oldest daughter in completing all her nursing courses and testing out with excellence. She already has a position waiting for her and at a highly coveted hospital in the area. She was always brilliant! We knew that- now the rest of the world gets to discover it as she treats them with compassion and gentleness. Way to go! (No, this is not her, just a borrowed image.)
 

Memories of Chester and Hester's Dino-Rama

Early next year, Dinoland U.S.A. is fully set to close. Dinosaur aka Countdown to Extinction bites the bullet as the suits at the Walt Disney Company concede that the world of dinosaurs belongs to Universal's Jurassic Park franchise. This includes the earlier closure of  Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama.

 

While I consider this area a total failure solidly on the same level as California Adventure 1.0 to the Walt Disney Studios Paris at opening,  I do have some happy memories. The top photo on TriceraTop Spin is a family favorite. 

The photo directly above is a funny one. Our wonderful friends took a ride on Primeval Whirl, a cheap carnival ride that made us laugh while we slammed into each other at every curve. 

No, I won't defend this as the art of Imagineering, but the land had some clever elements to make up for the unimaginative rides. Still, glad to see it go in favor of Tropical Americas. The beautiful Disney's Animal Kingdom may just remain the best Imagineered and most consistent park in Disney's Florida kingdom. 

(Photographs by Mark Taft.)

Here's to Mothers Day... and Butterbeer!

A nice little shot from our recent trip to Universal Orlando Resort and of course, Walt Disney World. As I was looking for a photo of all four of our kids with their mother, I realized I only had old ones from years ago. That's ok- I have a recent one of our youngest son- the Harry Potter fan- sitting in Hog's Head enjoying a butter beer with his Mom, I mean Mum. 

Islands of Adventure is quickly becoming one of my favorite parks in Florida due to the great Jurassic Park thrill Velocicoaster and my love for Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. 

More of our trip report to come. Next up? Universal Studios Florida park.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)