just to clarify...
you're not actually riding ME for 3 hrs. They do pick you up 3hrs prior to flight time, but you're on the bus MUCH less time than that (it varies due to pick-ups at other resorts)
I have to say, i was one who thought 3hrs was too early, but after having had towncar pick-ups 2-2/1 hrs in advance anyway, the 30 mins was no big deal and to be honest, TSA screening at MCO can take a REALLY long time.