Yep, that's him.  The infamous Tillikum or Shamu (stage name) from Orlando's killer whale exhibit at Sea World.  It was particularly difficult for me to watch this show without thinking of Dawn Brancheau's, his trainer, death just weeks before.  I highly respect the men and women who work with these awesome creatures.

I am not so sure I could ever be so brave after knowing my collegue was attacked by a killer whale.

Much more to my liking would be to train seals and otters.  The pirate show at Disney was hilarious.

My grandson got a kick out of it.

Disney wasn't just about animals, we enjoyed the characters just as much.  My grandson loves King Louie (on the left) from the "Jungle Book."  We were worried that he wouldn't see his favorite character and were thrilled when we saw him. 

Another favorite is "Lion King" and Disney puts on a special Lion King show with all of the characters and songs.  My grandson got so excited that he jumped up and began to dance on the floor.  He was dancing all around when Security came and asked us to make him sit back down.  At the finale, one of the characters walked all across the stage to kneel down at my grandson's level and play with him.  It was a special moment for him and one he will always remember.

I'm not quite sure what the monkey is doing, but my grandson reckons he was picking bugs from his hair.  (He loves pretending he is a monkey). And to tell you the truth, it does look that way to me too! 

SPRING BREAK 2010

Over Spring break, my son, his wife, and their three children accompanied me to Orlando, Florida for what turned out to be the vacation of a life time. We had picture perfect Florida weather generally around the 83 F mark and believe it or not, perfectly mannered children. They exceeded our expectations considering we drove for two days averaging 12 hour days, including rest stop breaks. The week was so action-packed that all three youngsters came back to the resort each evening totally spent. When little ones ask to go to bed at night, you know you've succeeded in making their day unimaginably fun.

It was Easter week so the resort at Hilton in Orlando threw out all of the stops when it came to children's activities.  Face painting, magicians, balloons, games, crafts, and movies while swimming in the pool were some of the kids favorite activities that week.

We were especially thrilled with the fact that the weather was spectacular each day and the children were able to practice their swimming skills.  Within the ten days, both were dog paddling, turning sommersaults under water, and floating on their backs.  Having only just taken beginner swim lessons last summer and not having access to a pool for 8 months, we were thrilled with

their achievements!

Simo got free rides from Baba, but was able to touch the bottom and he relished in his new-found freedom.  He was all smiles and grins when near the water. 

This was one of the many pools at the resort.  The kids liked the waterfall and the cave at this pool the best.

When the little ones tired of swimming were ordered out of the pool, they had lots of other activities at the resort to occupy themselves. 

The play area was canopied and had the spongy, recycled rubber floor surface that minimized injury from falls.

Our suite slept 8, included a full kitchen, two screened in porches, a livingroom and two full bathrooms. 

This room included a large jacuzzi and a separate bathroom.  Since I left my hubby back in Munich, my son and daughter-in-law were pleased to have this lovely space. 

The bright and cheerful living room area as well as one of the bedrooms had pull out couches making sleeping arrangements very comfortable for the 6 of us.

My wonderful daughter-in-law and  cook extraordinare, treated us to amazing Jordanian dishes each day.  Fatoosh, hummos, salad fool,  Maqlooba, Labanee, pita bread, and spinach, cheese, and meat pies were just a few of the spectacular dishes she set before us.   Thank you, my dear, for all of your efforts.  We all appreciated the delicious dishes you created for us.

Baba, thank you for the entertainment!  We loved your Easter Bunny hat that played music and waved your bunny ears too and fro.  You make us laugh and we love you.  I loved having you, my son, and your family with me this Easter in Florida. I couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable time.

DISASTER STRIKES!

We spent our Spring Break at the Hilton Grand Vacations Resort in Orlando, Florida this week.  I arranged for a special visit from the "Easter Bunny" on Easter morning.  I wasn't planning on greeting him at 7:30 a.m. and neither were the grandchildren.  Nee Nee seemed very welcoming (above), but Dido was traumatized waking up to this floppy-eared fellow.  So much for best laid plans.  He may be scarred for life!