We've gone the last three years and have never stayed in our seats for the actual fireworks (and Memories show last year). In fact last year we had great seats in the front near the photographer and didn't even think to stay in them. I enjoy being up along the railing with everyone else, oohhing and ahhhing, knowing you're a part of the experience yet not getting bowled over by parents, who show up at the last possible second believing their little darlings take presidence over you and your well being (can you tell I really don't like the fireworks crowd?!?!?!).
In fact, I had a friend go for the first time and they did this buffet, and her comment afterwards was "I don't know if we'd do it again". My first question- did you watch the fireworks WITH the crowd too that week? They hadn't, to which I replied "Oh you'd be quite motivated to do the dessert buffet again if you had"
I sound like a crabby old lady (which I'm not) but the way people treat others in the happiest place on Earth is horrible at times. I'm happy for you, I wish only good memories for you after this experience. It really is a lovely view that we pay good money to experience!