owen's first trip to disney | part one

Almost four years ago to the date was our last family trip to Disney World. (blogged here) That was pre-Owen. Then there was the time I met Brian in Orlando on the tail-end of his work trip for a weekend at Disney. That was also partially pre-Owen. I was newly pregnant! (blogged here) 

So, if you know my family you know that we love our Disney. Taking Owen was never a question, the question was when his first trip would be. Last week we embarked on the much anticipated adventure – Owen's first trip to Disney World!

I am going to narrow the trip down the same way I did four years ago – with a list.

Our Top Ten Disney favorites (in no particular order):

1. Owen's First Flight(s)

Flying was the one point of anxiety for me before the trip. Understandably so, as we would be flying with a fifteen-month-old for the first time. The first flight went better than expected – partially because our expectations were very low, but more so because Owen was a little angel baby. Everything was new to him on the first leg of our trip, and my bag of "tricks" was filled to the brim.

Notice I listed Owen's FIRST flight(s). The flights back home were not nearly as pleasant. Actually, we contemplated renting a car and driving back because we knew the final 30-minute flight would be awful (for everyone)!

A friend of ours told us to bring stickers – kept him occupied forever!

When we got to Atlanta, we were met by my family. Owen was so glad to see Caleb. 

Completely worn out after both flights!

2. The Parks

Disney is a magical place – and seeing it all through Owen's eyes gave me a new, deeper appreciation for the parks.

The Magic Kingdom

Hollywood Studios

3. The Rides

The Haunted Mansion should be a category of it's own. It's Brian's favorite ride, and one we ride at least 3 or 4 times each visit.

one

two

three

four

It's a Small World is a ride that I took for granted – until it became Owen's first ride. Seeing the way he lit up when we rode it made me really appreciate it. The entire time he just waved, danced and blew kisses – such a cutie!

the fam on dumbo...

the teacups... 

and the monorail.

4. Family

Like I said before, so many of my childhood memories include being with my family in Disney World. Being with them for Owen's first trip was definitely a highlight!

mickey with aunt kelly

celebrating Caleb's birthday

our little family – animal kingdom lodge

my beautiful sis!

the whole fam – love!

5. Characters

Meeting characters could have gone one of two ways – luckily, Owen loved them! We went to two character breakfasts and both were the highlights of his day. He waved, pointed, blew kisses, and danced when he saw them.

play 'n dine character breakfast

meeting jake (of the neverland pirates)

phineas & ferb

goofy

donald

Since there were a crazy amount of photos, I split the post in two. Part two is up next...