Universal Studios...

Back in February we headed to Orlando to go to Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure. It was actually a work event for Andy, but when I heard where they were going, I made sure he knew it would be a "family" event as well. Andy's new job has him in charge of House of Representative Republican campaigns for the state of Florida, so this was a fundraiser with legislators, their families, and donors. We had a great time! Drew was really excited and couldn't wait to see the hotel. He still says that was his favorite part. Go figure....

Here's a picture of the Hard Rock Hotel where we stayed. We had a few hours of free time on Saturday, so Drew and Andy did some swimming. It was really cool. There was a great band performing, and it was beautiful weather. We walked back to our hotel for our break time and this was what happened about 30 seconds before getting back. Passed out....

Knox was excited to be in Orlando as well.

The way our day worked is that we were all assigned to "Tour Groups" and our guide would take us to the ride and get us right on. At the most I would say we would wait 1-2 minutes. I don't know how we'll ever go to a theme park any other way again. This is after Andy rode the Hulk (which is in the background). Drew was really upset when he went. I think he was worried about him.

When we arrived the first night we ate at the hotel. It was a great ambiance, but I wouldn't say the same about the food. This was a play area for kids to be, while we waited to eat.

My salad came out in a collander which was a cool presentation, but difficult to eat from. It kept sliding around.

Our bread basket was filled with all kinds of bread. One of our favorites tasted like pretzels.

Drew and mommy on the bed when we got to Orlando

more of the room....this is the bed Drew and I slept on. Andy had the other all to himself.

Drew swimming

That night was a Mardi Gras celebration. It was really neat. They had an area roped off between some of the buildings and catered it for us. We had people walking around passing out beads just for our group, and even a balloon animal "artist" on stilts. You'll see that picture if you scroll down. It's a little dark.

Drew and the beginning of his beads

Us with the Cat in the Hat in Seussland. That was a really fun part of the park for Drew. Lately he has been into Dr. Seuss books so it was fun to ride some of the rides now that he knows some of the stories.

More swimming

Knox just before he took a little nap. I thought he was stay asleep for awhile in my sling, but there was a lot of disruption, so he took about a 20 minute nap, but he never got fussy and did great.

Heading back to the hotel we saw Curious George and had to get a picture with him.

Waiting to head into the Barney show which was a definite highlight for Drew. You aren't supposed to take pictures in the show, and the rule follower that I am listened, but I wish you could have seen his face. He was enamored.