In just 42 days we head to Walt Disney World. This trip is coming just as there is much turmoil in our lives. Mike’s 98 year old mother is transitioning her living arrangement, and even more is going on back home in the U.P.  It is a time for deliberate and focused prayer. And through it all, God be praised!

Anyway…Pandora, The World of Avatar, has opened at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since we were last there. Avatar Flight of Passage is the newest, hottest ride in the park, however, since we have two tiny ones with us this time, we didn’t FastPass+ this. Instead we Fastpass+ed Na’vi River Journey. (I must confess these rides that allow the little ones to ride are my kind of rides!) Here’s what Disney has to say about Na’vi River Journey:

Journey deep into a bioluminescent rainforest in search of the Na’vi Shaman of Songs, only at Pandora – The World of Avatar. 

A Family-Friendly Adventure

Glide down a gentle, mysterious river and feel a sense of wonder as the full beauty of Pandora reveals itself. Located within the Valley of Mo’ara, Na’vi River Journey offers explorers an experience that has to be seen—and heard—to be believed!

As your expedition begins, climb aboard a reed boat and drift downstream. After coasting through a series of caves, and passing by exotic glowing plants and amazing creatures of the rainforest, you’ll soon find yourself face-to-face with the Na’vi Shaman of Songs.

The adventure comes to a conclusion as the Shaman demonstrates her deep connection to the life force of Pandora—and sends positive energy out into the forest through the power of her music!

Here’s what Disney has to say about:

Pandora – The World of Avatar

Journey to an awe-inspiring land that celebrates the magnificent power of nature.

Located within Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, Pandora – The World of Avatar provides eco-tourists the opportunity to join Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE) for the transformational experience of a lifetime—filled with unforgettable expeditions, floating mountains, a bioluminescent forest, winged mountain banshees and more.

In partnership with ACE, visitors of every age will have the chance to explore the values and culture of this exotic place, and celebrate the striking beauty and overwhelming power of the natural world.

Welcome to Pandora—a world similar to Earth… but distinctly unique in so many ways!

Hike amid floating mountains, glowing fauna and flora, a native drum circle and many other wonders at Pandora – The World of Avatar. 

Behold A Land That’s Beyond Belief

Walk about through the Valley of Mo’ara and get ready to discover a world like no other!

There’s more to Pandora than expeditions like Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey… much more! All around its enormous floating mountains, you’ll quickly uncover the valley’s one-of-a-kind dining and shopping experiences—along with sights, sounds and experiences that include:

• Exotic plants that come to life with beautiful bioluminescence each night
• A Na’vi-built drum circle, containing instruments playable by all
• Na’vi totems and other cultural items found throughout the land
• Brand-new Wilderness Explorers challenges and badges to collect

You may even come across tour guides from Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE), scientists from the Pandora Conservation Initiative (PCI), or even an eclectic expat or two!

Explore Nature in Pandora

The Pandora Utility Suit showcases natural wonders in dramatic fashion.

Under the control of its pilot—a Pandora Conservation Initiative scientist—this 10-foot-tall mechanical suit roams the Mo’ara Valley to study fauna, collect plant samples and explore the rough terrain. While the suit traverses the land, its pilot will interact with Guests, discuss the otherworldly landscape and share details about conservation efforts in Pandora.

There will be plenty of new ground to explore together. Meet me at the Kingdom.

Donna

P.S. Sending prayers to family and friends up north as transitions take place.