We had been trying to take the kids to Disney World in Florida for years. We had gone before they were born and loved it. For one reason or another, we could never go. Even though we've been going to Florida almost every year (for some reason.)

Late last year it finally happened. And seems like the girls were ready.

We celebrated Aroma's week #275 in the balmy winter of Florida at the Disney World. We kept it a surprise so kids didn't really know until they got there and that made for a wonderful pre-Christmas gift. As expected - it was a world of fun. We cannot wait to go back again.

Everything worked well except Disney's much touted but terribly frustrating Fastpass+ system of entering fast lanes at popular rides. The system sucks in many ways and greatly reduces your enjoyment of the park. You do less of the popular rides and stand in lines longer - both for rides and for making new fastpass reservations, generally only to find out that no spots are left. The Fastpass+ is clearly a design by committee.

Here are some of the magical moments.

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Through some clever light work - they manage to cover the Cinderella's castle in snow - as a nod to the new hit Frozen

The castle of the Beast from 'Beauty and the Beast' story

"Africa" section of the Animal Kingdom park

"The Everest Expedition" ride in the "Asia" section of Animal Kingdom is probably the most entertaining and perhaps the scariest ride I've been on. Not so much for the fall but the meticulously crafted mythology, something that Disney still remains incredibly good at.

The "Happiest place on earth" has managed to maintain its mystique and magical quality even after the all these years.

"Big Thunder Mountain Railroad" was our favorite family ride this time around. Beautifully conceptualized and constructed, this was a total joy for the kids.

Cinderella's castle beyond a bed of flowers

The Castle is amazing from every angle.