MY FINAL THOUGHTS
To bring this TR to an end, here are some final thoughts on our experiences...
the dates
Going in the middle of May was a real treat for us. Once my sisters and I got older, our parents didn't like taking us out of school for vacations, which meant that left only busy times for us to visit Disney World. Even though we've gotten used to crowds for the most part, it was really nice to go during an "off" time with such low crowds. Because the waits were virtually nonexistent, we were able to do everything we wanted to with no problem at all. I loved being able to do all of our favorite things in addition to the attractions we don't normally do. Plus the weather could not have been better. Lots of sunshine, temperatures in the 80s, and not a drop of rain.
the resort
We were so excited to get the opportunity to stay at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for the first time (another perk of going in May...because of the way DVC works its reservations, it would be virtually impossible for us to be able to stay anywhere besides our home resort during peak seasons) and it definitely did not disappoint. We would have liked to have had a better view of the savanna from our room but it wasn't a big deal. AKL is such an amazing resort from the lobby decor to the pool to the overall atmosphere. We'd love to go back some day!
miscellaneous
The Pirate and Princess Party was lots of fun. It's so great that the MK is open and we could do all the rides. Plus the exclusive entertainment (parade and fireworks) was awesome. We had a great night. We also had good experiences at the 2 new restaurants we tried and will go back to both in the future.
I'm also really glad we decided to visit Sea World. The attractions and animals were really cool. It was just a nice park. If you have not already, go to Sea World...you won't regret it.
Overall it was another amazing trip. I guess our flight being cancelled in December was like a blessing in disguise because if it weren't for that, we never would have gone!
Disney in the future
Being the Disney nut that I am, it's always depressing when I don't have a trip to look forward to. And because I don't know what my job situation will be in the coming months, it's hard to plan anything. But, with DVC it's hard to stay away
too long. SOOOO...
In December, Dad and Emma are planning on going down for a few days since we still had 2 of the free flight vouchers left. We looked a couple weeks ago and most of the plane was reserved and you couldn't get seats. Well, Dad looked again a couple days ago and they had some seats available on their flight. Today we bought a seat for me since the fare wasn't too bad, so if I end up not having a full-time job I will be joining them!!!

I guess it'll be my consolation prize for being unemployed.

(don't get me wrong, obviously my first concern is getting a job but if that doesn't happen it'll be something to look forward to). But the best part is that we were able to get a studio at the
Beach Club Villas!!!!!
If it turns out I can't go I'll have to go some other time. I also really want to go back to
Disneyland within the next couple of years, especially with all the new attractions/changes they're doing at California Adventure.
So, as the song goes, now it's time to say good-bye to this TR. Thanks to everyone who stuck with me through the whole thing...it was fun reliving my trip and sharing it with you all! If I'm able to go in December, you can bet I'll do another trip report.
See ya real soon, Mickey!