And we're done.....

So Christmas has come and gone for another year and while most of you won't be thinking about next years for a little while (unless you are one of those way too organised people who have already started your shopping for next year) the time has come for me to start working on next years (even though unless something dramatic happens this past one will have been my last working for my current employer)

If things were going to their normal plan my next holiday to my happy place would be in just over 4 months so I would be in uber planning mode - but right now unless there is a lottery win that's not going to happen. I cant say that I am not more than a little disappointed but I am putting a positive spin on this and know that when I do go back there will be lots of new things for me to explore and fall in love with

This year we had the opening of Starbucks in the park (wow did that cause lots of controversy as after all the Main Street Bakery was a fan favourite) but I can honestly say having experienced it; I really didn't mind it and found it a good addition. Yes, there are downsides as there is no seating but the operation in itself works fantastically and was most appreciated while we were there and we had a cold spell as a steaming cup of hot chocolate was in order

The long awaited Seven Dwarfs Mine Train opened (and went up in flames - only a little fire but why didn't they think there could be a chance of embers from the fireworks blowing across so make the exterior fire proof; I am sure James will give me a detailed reason for this but its just a thought). The opening of this was the final piece of new Fantasyland and in my view is the best. I am not a coaster fan at all but properly loved this and can't wait to ride it again; whenever that maybe.

With the completion of new Fantasyland a new parade began called Festival of Fantasy which featured floats based on Fantasyland attractions - including the amazing Maleficent float which was as spectacular up close as it is in pictures. But, although the visual effect was amazing I wasn't as impressed with the music (shock horror there is something Disney have done that I am not overly keen on)

Along side all of that there was a mass of closures of attractions at Hollywood Studios, plus the announcement of the removal of the Sorcerers Hat, which has led the Disney rumour mill to go into melt down about what's coming next for the park. James would if he had his way plonk a Star Wars themed land in it but I'm not so keen on that idea although I don't know what would be better

So with all of that happening in one year what is there to look forward to? The completion of Disney Springs which I don't  believe is due to be finished until 2016 (but I could have imagined that), Avatar Land and the opening of the night time Rivers of Light show at Animal Kingdom, the opening of the Frozen inspired ride at Epcot and whatever changes are going to take place at Hollywood Studios

With all that in mind I can't wait for my next trip back, keep your fingers crossed for that lottery win for me

xxx