Down on the Boardwalk Resort Hopping and The Tower of Terror

This day started out pretty cold but the sun came out and oh, how beautiful! Met our friend, Kimberly today down at the Boardwalk. Took a magnificent stroll around that area, taking a brief break at each of the beautiful resorts in that area. A little nostalgic moment at the Swan - how many Disney trips had that place as our home over the past years?!

We had a great hike over to MGM and then took the little boat trip back - you know, you don't have to go to parks to enjoy all Disney has to offer!

Finding a mid-afternoon snack was a bit more challenging than we had thought it would be. With all of the options for food in that area, few are open that time of day. We checked out the menu at Cat Cora's new place, Kouzzina, and made a note to find a time to return there. So, choices limited, we first thought we try Brewery place - NOT! Not a pleasant entrance, welcome or seating area - we passed. Only other option was ESPN - yes, with all of the options in Orlando, we're at ESPN for wings and beer! But, we had great company and stories, so who cares? And, with the TVs in the restrooms, as well, not a chance to miss any news coming from the sports world!! Yes, we could even follow Timmy Tebow in his quest for the pros! As so many of you know, this is my number one priority for the sports year ahead!!!

Bid farewell to Kimberly and headed back along the path to MGM - we had an hour and a half to visit the Tower of Terror and American Idol. Showing up right before closing is ideal. We walked right on the Tower. Note: Celeste let go of fear and decided to give it a try. Guess what? She, of course, LOVED it!!! Definitely the best theme ride ever. Timing worked to check out the last performance at AI - hadn't been there before. Kind of fun! Kudos to the Disney folks finding pretty good talent right out of the park. We had time for another run on the Tower - and then back to see the finals at AI. We didn't quite time it to get inside, but no worries, huge outside screen to check in and the evening was beautiful. The contestant who reminded me of my friend, Steven Dukas, yes, for those of you who know him, was my favorite and HE WON!!!!

Took the boat back to the Boardwalk - so pretty and peaceful at night. Timing worked out beautifully to check out Cat's place. And, so glad we did. By far, the best meal we've had. Great atmosphere, service and absolutely delicious food! You must get by there if you get a chance. We started with a sampler that had yummy skewers of spicy lamb meatballs and prawns. Hummus, tzikki, olives, dolmades and nuts - everything you could need in a starter course. We split the patstittio, Greek lasagne, the BEST I've ever had. It was amazing!! And, a dessert in phylo with semolina custard and a side of praline/vanilla gelato - uh huh, HEAVEN!! You know, I appreciate my Greek food and this was top of the charts! Celeste even had a shot of ouzo - OOMPAH!!!

We had a brisk walk (yes, chilly!) back to the car and dragged ourselves home. What a wonderful day!! Need a good night's sleep as the Animal Kingdom beckons us for tomorrow!!