Lagoon and Donut Falls

I can't think of two more opposite things, in a way. However, they both provide activities that my kids love: going on rides and hiking. I'm posting these two activities together blatantly after laughing on the way home from Donut Falls the other night. The kids only talked about Lagoon the whole time. I admit they talk about Lagoon (and even Disney World, which we visited once in 2004) way more than hiking. I realized after this last hike that they still get really excited about a hiking adventure while on it, and it's hard to get them back down the mountain.

But I also realized something else - getting them excited about going on the hike was not as easy as it used to be. There are just too many other more stimulating distractions out there, and all of my efforts to keep things down to earth - literally - are somewhat futile. Some of this is because of friends and other family members, neither of which I would ever consider giving up, so I guess I just need to chill a bit. Besides, Lagoon ended up being a lot more fun than I had imagined this summer. Rattle Snake Rapids is my new favorite ride, and I can still manage the roller coasters. I just stayed away from the super spinny rides. It's been quite a few years since I went to Lagoon, and it was the first time with the kids. They are all tall enough (Grace just barely) for the big rides, and they are all pretty daring too. If you go, and it's been a while, I suggest not beginning your day with the ride Tidal Wave. I felt like I was going to die, and my son was in tears (as can be seen in the picture just below). But we both did just fine on the White Roller Coaster minutes later. I admit, going to Lagoon as a child was pure exhilaration - now it's more about watching my kids experience the excitement of moving super fast, just for the thrill of it.

So you decide - which activity looks like more fun?

Lagoon:

Donut Falls: