Well, after a wonderful ten days in the land of fairies and make believe, we are back to reality.  How wonderful that the temperatures have taken a plunge and are ushering in some welcome autumn air. 

We wandered through the “World” for ten days and really enjoyed our time.   It is wonderful to be able to escape to so many different countries all at once.  EPCOT’s United Kingdom, a lovely little cluster of old English looking buildings with a quaint garden courtyard in the rear, is a favorite spot. We love to wander through the shops there looking at the different teas and smelling the delightful aroma of Burberry cologne.

Another of our favorite spots is EPCOT’s France (just a few steps over the bridge from UK).  The beautiful fountain pictured here is modeled after those at Versailles.  The film Impressions de France is a very special and nostalgic treat for hubby and me, as we were just newly engaged the first time we saw it.  It is rich with spectacular scenery set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful classical music you will ever hear.  In the 90+ degree heat and humidity of Florida, it is a welcome break to walk into this lovely air-conditioned theatre and bask in this lovely sensory feast.  For us, it is a must-do (and we try to do it several times during our stay.)

Think this is Hawaii or some lovely tropical isle?  It’s Disney’s Polynesian Resort, a tropical oasis filled with lush vegetation and waterfalls around nearly every corner.  We had a wonderful meal of shrimp, grilled turkey, pork, chicken wings and the most wonderful bread pudding (with bananas Foster sauce and vanilla bean ice cream) I’ve ever tasted at O’Hana, the Polynesian’s family style restaurant. 

It was a wonderful trip; even so, we are glad to be home.  We are ready to plunge into fall and are certainly ready for cooler temperatures and even shorter days.  The leaves are beginning to change and that lovely “seasons are changing feeling” is filling the air. 

Yes, there is much excitement in the air as our trip to Disney draws nearer.  I have been planning the trip since April, and I must admit that I might be the most excited one.  With all this planning I’ve been doing, the heat has not really let up.  There’s no getting around the fact that early September in Florida will be very hot.   So, I am letting my mind wander to cooler temperatures and planning for those fall articles.  Just to give you a glimpse of where the articles are headed… fall is definitely apple season, so get ready for some great apple recipes.  I am also looking forward to bringing all the great fall colors indoors.  Fall brings with it a return to school, fall sports, and lots of great outdoor activities.  Be sure to check back in a few weeks to see just what Charm & Grace has to say about this great time of year!