Hilde in Florida!

Several years ago, my Norwegian friend Hilde, said she was saving up for Orlando so she could take her kids to Disneyworld in 2010.  Lo and behold, I got a call a few months back saying that she's coming!  If you've met her before, she's my world traveler friend, with so many wonderful experiences (http://www.hildelillehagen.blogspot.com/ - this is the blog she created to raise money to build a women's center for expecting mothers in Africa).

We met each other in Mexico in 1996 when we were both studying abroad with our universities.  We've been dear friends over the years and have stayed in touch - so I'm glad I could take a few days off of work (even at 7 1/2 months pregnant) and fly out to meet her.  Travis and I considered taking Mia, but it worked out for the best since it was a quick trip and Travis was able to drive up to Boise to visit with his Dad while he's out West. 

Here are some photos of Hilde's family (with her sweet Cuban husband).  Let's just say, I got to practice up on my Spanish and thank goodness Hilde speaks English because the kids and other family who were staying with us ONLY spoke Norwegian.  ;)

This is the pool at the house we stayed in...do you see the exotic bird that came walking through our yard?  I think he was looking for a cool dip in the agua, if you know what I mean.  Now I understand why all their outdoor pools are covered.

I could only handle The Animal Kingdom in my current state so I didn't do much of Disneyworld.  But I spent a lot of time learning about the Cuban culture and the tamales, rice and beans and fried bananas were to die for!  Thanks, Vladi for the tips!!