Vacation with the in-laws Part 3 (last)
We drove back up to Orlando for the last 2 days of the trip. It took the better part of a day to get there, so we pretty much just went to dinner in Orlando and found our hotel. The in-laws LOVE American buffets. I don't understand. So much complaining about our food, but then you take them to the Golden Corral and you'd think they thought they were in heaven. go figure.
We had 1/2 a day to kill before going, yet again, to the outlet malls. I knew the perfect place--GATORLAND!
I went to Gatorland when I was 9 and remember liking it.
It's an amazing mess of alligators, wildlife and corny shows. The park doesn't take itself too seriously, so it's a great time.
lots of 'gators!
I love peacocks. This was my feeble attempt to try and get a picture with one.
pillow?
There was actually a nice nature trail and a waterside boardwalk. The park is surprisingly beautiful with nature.
One of their shows is to dangle chickens and try to get the gator to grab them.
disturbingly entertaining
in the wild
The birds of Gatorland:
White alligator
I think Kyohei's little sister, Maki had to most fun at Gatorland. She got to hold this boa.
not a real gator
real gator
Maki again with a gator 
After another round of shopping, Kyohei decided that his family need to experience a Chinese Buffet. barf.
There I made my own version of Taco Salad:
get it, get it?! Tako Salad! ha ha ha ha ha ha
[Tako=Octopus in Japanese]
In sum, I miss the family now that they are gone. It was a much anticipated trip and lead to Kyohei starting a new job! He's been working at the new place for a week now and so far, so good. We'll see when the paycheck comes, though, you know what I mean?
There was much hugging and crying at the airport when everyone had to part ways. Living far away from your family is sad sometimes. I wonder when we will see them next? Probably the next time we go over to Japan. hhmmm 2011? 2012? Imagine doing another pilgrimage while the sakura were falling.... aahh sigh....
just daydreaming
