Harry Potter World

As many of you know, last week I finally made the hajj to Harry Potter World– the culmination of all my childhood [and also, post-childhood] fantasies. I knew there was a definite chance that I would have to drop out of school and stay, so that I could lead Hufflepuff into its golden age:

But luckily, it all turned out okay.

Here is Hogwarts Castle. Inside, you ride on "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey."
The waiting line is impressive, with lots of talking portraits and stuff. (no moving staircases, unfortunately.)
One room looks like the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, but the ceiling snows on you like the Great Hall.

The ride itself is very well done. The only weird thing is that at the end Hermione does not look really happy to see you, which kind of makes you wonder if she wishes the dementors would have gotten you after all. 

There is no fast past for this line, but there IS a single rider line. Which we rocked so hard. 

Here is Hogsmeade. I about died. 

 The little shops of Hogsmeade/Diagon Alley line the streets. 

 Real or fake, they have the best window displays.

There is actually a mandrake in this window that yells at you. Awesome, I know. 

Lots of moving pictures. and frogs. and bludgers.

And look at all the owl poop on the rafters! How authentic!

Also, on this trip I discovered I have turned into a mom. Not the cool kind, but the kind that doesn't like roller coasters and gladly sits out with the baby while everyone else rushes in line for Death Drop Launch Attack or whatever. Thus, my favorite ride of the trip was Flight of the Hippogriff. 

I smiled sheepishly at the 20-year-old ride operator as I sat down in the first car for the third time in a row.

The best part of Harry Potter World was the people-watching.

Employee on Right: Do you want me to take a picture of you?

Myself: No, stand next to him! I want to get both your cute outfits!

Also, I had NO IDEA how many Brits would pilgrimage here with their families– and I could not have been more delighted. The one thing I learned from church in London is that 

there is nothing cuter in this world than a child with an English accent. period.

Gah, this kills me. [It was so worth being creepy to snap this.]

Last best thing about Harry Potter World: the butterbeer. 
 

It's basically frozen cream soda with a butterscotch topping. Delicious. 

Thanks for a great trip, Dad!! 

[mischief managed.]