Our Animal Kingdom Lodge Vacation

This past week, Andrew, Michael and I were at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando, FL. We are part of vacation club, and had wanted to go to Hilton Head, but there were no reservations available, so our only option was Orlando. And since I really wanted to go on vacation, we went with what was available. It is no secret that I am not a huge fan of Disney World, especially no in July. So, I made a deal with Andrew, we could go to Orlando, if he agreed that we would do this as cheap as possible and as relaxing as possible.  If we had gone to Hilton Head, our days would be spent at the pool or beach, and then going to dinner. That’s It! No running around, no waking up early and staying up late. Just a nice, quiet, relaxing vacation. So, that meant to park tickets and no dining plan.  The parks are great, but in July, with a almost 1 year old, it just sounds more miserable than fun. So, Andrew agreed, and we made reservations for the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

We got there Saturday evening, and went straight to our room. We had a Savannah view room, and all throughout the week, we saw so many different animals right outside!

Our days consisted of waking up, going to the pool, coming back to the room for a nap, eating lunch, walking around the resort to look at the animals, taking another nap, eating dinner and going to bed. Andrew’s family was also there, but at a different resort, so we met them two different days to swim. As far as vacations with an almost one-year-old go, it was pretty relaxing. We did get up a lot earlier than we usually do on vacation, but that is because a baby will only sleep for so long in the morning.

For the 4^th of July, we spent the morning at the pool and then went to watch the fireworks over the castle from the 11^th floor of Bay Lake Tower. It was a great view.

The best part of this vacation was watching the animals. I could sit and watch them for hours. It was just so neat. My favorite animals were the giraffes. There were about 3 or 4 different ones we saw during the week. The ones we saw the most were the Mama and baby giraffe. The baby was only 11 months old, just like Michael.  The zebras were also very cool to watch. One day, as we were walking around we saw 6 or 8 zebras running around a chasing each other. They were running through the ponds and all through the Savannah. Later, we asked a guide about it, and he said that that is what healthy zebras do. If you see them running and are very active, that means they are healthy and happy.

One night, Andrew’s parents asked if they could take Michael with them into the Magic Kingdom and to dinner. We, of course, said that was fine. They were going to the Crystal Palace for a character dinner with Winnie the Pooh and his pals. Michael has never seen any characters, so we weren’t sure how he would react. They said he did fine, and really didn’t pay much attention to them. I am waiting to get the pictures from their camera, and I will post them, when I get them.  Andrew’s dad also took a bunch of pictures at the pool, so hopefully I will have those soon also.

This was one of the best “Disney” vacations I have ever had. We would definitely go back, and do the same thing.

What a wonderful Weekend!

We had a great weekend. Friday was a busy day. We were up early getting everything ready for the Master of the Grill competition. We spent all day at my parents house enjoying the 4th with family and stayed late enjoying the fireworks. Here are a few more pictures from the day.

Saturday we were able to sleep in and get some much needed sleep. Saturday afternoon I had the chance to talk to Jennifer Baskin. With her living in Germany, we don't get to talk too often. Sunday I spent the day with my in-laws and didn't get back to Gaffney till 7:00 pm.

I'm hoping the first part of this week goes by quickly because Thursday, I leave to go to Edisto Island. My parents are there now, and invited me to go down for the weekend. Andrew can't come, so I invited Jessica to come with me. We are both super excited about the trip.

Hope everyone had a great week!!

And the Winner is...

That's right... Andrew won!!


Here are a few pictures from yesterday. Notice the shirts that we are wearing. I made them Myself. I will post more about the day later. Enjoy!

Master of the Grill 2007

Master of the Grill 2007

Last year we started a tradition in my family that we hope continues for many years:

Master of the Grill!

All of the men in my family bring their grills to my parents house for a 4th of July cook off. They all have to cook Baby Back Ribs. Last year there were 4 men competing, but this year we have 5 participants: My Dad, and all the Son-in-laws; Andrew, Will, Jeff, Matt. We will have a panel of "Judges" deciding who's ribs are the best.

Last year they were required to do two items. The highest combined total score won. Andrew won for the Chicken and Matt won for the ribs. But Andrew won the title of Master of the Grill 2007 since he had the highest combined score. All of the men are practicing and getting their rubs and sauces ready for this Friday. Since they are only being judged on one item this year, It's winner takes all. I can't wait to see who wins. I will post on Saturday with pictures and to let you know who won. Here are some pictures from last year's competition.

Team Wolff (Notice the matching Tattoos)

Andrew preparing his ribs

My Dad did a Hawaiian Theme. Can you tell??

Will's finished products. He decided to do chicken fingers rather then grilled chicken.

Matt's Final Display