The Ice Cream Palace is also near. With it's graham cracker roof and banana split outdoor seating, it's another favorite place to everyone. They serve ice-cream from morning to night. Hot-dogs and snacks are also available throughout the day if you get hungry. Since the weather was almost 80 degrees our entire trip, we were able to enjoy the pool and waterworks at Claytonburg's Park of Dreams. On Monday nights it's host to a pool party with food, dance, games and characters from Sea World. Paige was thrilled to dance the night away with Shamu.
After spending a day at the Village and Sea World we were off to the Magic Kingdom. Paige loved it so much we spent 3 days here. The VIP treatment we received from Disney staff was unbelievable. When we first arrived at GKTW they gave her a button to wear that indicated she was a "wish child". The button gave us free parking, entrance admissions and best of all, the Disney characters keep a look out for them. Paige's button was like a magnet to all of the characters. She was the center of attention when any were around. There was no standing in line for rides or to see characters. At one point we were standing in line to see Pluto by the character tent in Toontown. One of the workers (BeBe was her name) spotted Paige and pulled us right to the front of the line. While we knew we didn't have to stand in line, we felt a little guilty cutting in front of everyone. She then asked us if we had been to the tent to see the other characters. When we said no she immediately took us through a special entrance to a holding area. Within minutes Paige had a private visit in 3 separate rooms that housed Minnie Mouse, Chip and Dale Chipmunks, Goofy, Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Cinderella and a few more. Paige was stealing the show with all the hugs and kisses she had to offer. The same thing was repeated when we went to the Mickey Mouse tent. They then offered to make us reservations to eat dinner with the characters. It was a fun time even though Paige was more interested in the characters than eating. The parade was also a very special time. Many of the characters walking the parade came up to hug her, while the one's riding on the floats (including Cinderella) waved and blew her kisses. It was heartwarming to see all the attention she was getting. Another of our many teary eyed moments.
This trip was about Paige and family time. We wanted to be a normal family for a week. GKTW allowed us the time and atmosphere to do this. We left the village with a sense of fulfillment and memories for a lifetime. So, with the great memories and a bit of sadness at being back in the real world, we're here and ready to face whatever the next chapter brings. We want to thank everyone who made this trip possible. We are truly grateful.
Thanks again everyone, for your prayers, notes, emails and messages. We're fortunate to have the family and friends we do.
All our love,
Andy, Sandi & Paige
Return to Main Disney Page