I recently heard an interview with Pamela Wallin on CBC Radio1. The interviewer asked her about the diversity of her career. She replied that if you say yes more than no, you will do interesting things in life. I have to agree. Life will be more interesting, sometimes more challenging and a lot more fun.

A recent example of the more fun part came when we said yes to a trip to Disney World with our son David and his family. David and Shannon were planning to run in a half marathon and they asked us to come along to watch the children on race day.

I confess I agreed because I wanted to spend time with six-year-old Matthew and three-year-old Caitlin. I did not imagine that I would find Disney World particularly enthralling. I stand corrected. There was really nothing I did not enjoy.

Let me say that being with Matthew and Caitlin was by far the best part of the trip. However, being with them at Disney World was fascinating. They are experienced Disney kids and they were pleased to show us the way.

I decided that I would go on the rides that Caitlin could go on. Height restrictions ensured that I would not be too challenged. My favorite was the Kali Rapids Expedition. Although I got drenched and decided not to go a second time, I loved the excitement and anticipation of it. I especially loved Matthew’s laugh at seeing his soppy grandmother.

Each person got to choose a venue for dinner. I chose making dinner at the condo (a sensible choice). Matthew chose one of the theme restaurants on his night. As we patiently waited in line to eat at T Rex I imagined it would be cheesy and noisy. Well, it was noisy, but I was surprised to find that our dino dinner partners were extraordinary. The food was excellent and the service was prompt. Next time we go the Disney World I’m choosing T Rex!

I loved the shows we saw at Disney World. It was fun to watch Caitlin reach out for the 3-D Nemo was swam up to her and to watch as the monsters from Monsters Inc. told audience jokes in their interactive show. The live shows were equally well done. I was captivated by the extraordinary costumes and props as well as the talent of the cast.

Speaking of the cast, I noted that all the employees at Disney World are called cast members. They were from all over the world and every possible demographic – old, young, handicapped, able bodied. What they had in common was unfailing politeness, good cheer and attentiveness.

The day before the half marathon Caitlin and Matthew had an opportunity to participate in special kids races. Caitlin asked for Shannon’s support in her 100 meter race. Matthew chose to run on his own. He dashed past in a pack of little blond boys. Both Gary, the official photographer, and I, the designated spotter, missed him entirely. However, we were able to get a post-race photo. The next day David and Shannon set off before 4:00 am to catch the bus to their race while we stayed snuggled in our beds. All the runners went home with large medals and charming shirts, and in David and Shannon’s case, some sore muscles.

At the end of our trip I vowed to make more time in my life for fun. If the opportunity presents itself, I’ll be signing up for another trip to Orlando where fun abounds.

© C O P Y R I G H T   2 0 0 9.  Mary Sullivan Holdgrafer ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.