Storyland 2011

We decided to take an abridged trip to Storyland as compared to our trip last year for two nights, this year we chose a single night at The Red Jacket Mountain View Resort. The townhouse we stayed in was newly renovated, spacious and just right for us.

Last year our trip was started off on the wrong foot for Jenna. Being still timid and young enough, we mistakenly tried "The Whale Ride." OH BOY!!! Think we scarred her for a good year. Jenna HATED the ride. (See post on Storyland last year-June 2010.) This year we were determined to do it right. We started off easy, visiting with the Old Woman in the shoe, ventured to the farm animals-work from an area of strength people-she/sometimes they-like animals. Our first real "ride" was the pumpkin coach up to Cinderella's castle. Jenna had been SO excited to meet her that she colored a portrait of her to give to her and wrote her very own message on it. As we rode up the pumpkin, the girls were so adorable! SO excited! Maya loving the "neigh neighs" and Jenna beyond words happy to know that she was going to meet a REAL PRINCESS!

Our first visit to Storyland last year, Maya allowed Cinderella to hold her, she was all of 8 months, and Jenna was not really into the idea of coming close. What a difference a year makes! Role reversal. Jenna, all dressed in head to toe pink princess garb herself, made Cinderella a beautiful picture, handed it to her and immediately was enchanted. She went with her, sat on her lap, took many a photo and talked and talked and talked. The following day, we revisited Cinderella and Maya as she promised, waved from a far, but Jenna went over and took her photo shoot again. Cinderella asked Jenna if she had any questions, and she did, just one. "Do you take a tub with Sleeping Beauty?" Cinderella was somewhat baffled and replied, "Umm, well, no, I don't. I take them by myself." A great memory for us to share with Jenna when she is older.

Our two days were spent without a speck of predicted rain and only a few tears, shed when we had to leave for naps and then the hysteria when we told them it was time to go home. Jenna and Maya had SUCH a great time! Jenna continues to talk about her trip and ask when we can go back; Maya repeatedly wants to talk about all the animals she saw.

What a fun and busy few days! We can't wait to go back again!