Mr & Mrs Oakie take on the World

[MrOakie]

Just me and my DW on our trip to WDW. From the title I guess you all know that this is the first time I've ever attempted a trip report as well. So please bear with me. I hope you enjoy the read. We absolutely loved our trip, with one exception. But I'll get to that later. Also, DW took me to the clinic on Sunday because I was having some congestion and some chest pains. Turns out I have bronchitis (more on that later too).

[MrOakie]

Months ago, I was visiting one of my customers (a travel agency), and they had a sign on their billboard about free dining at WDW. When I got home I told my DW about the sign, and we checked into it. After several days, I finally talked her into vacationing at WDW. We had never really had a vacation since we got married over 4 years ago. Anyways, we ordered our vacation dvd from WDW and checked out the website, and decided to stay at CBR.

After waiting months for our vacation, and DW nagging at me to shut up about the trip (ok, so I was way too excited). Our time finally came up. We had decided to leave after I got home from work on the 19th, and drive to WDW straight through. It's only about an 11 hour drive from Baton Rouge. When I got home, I showered and got ready, we packed, and shoved everything into our suv. Our dog Roxie started going nutso when we brought down her kennel and put in the suv too. We headed off to my my inlaws to drop her off for the week :( (just a note, Roxie is like a child to us, since we don't have any of our own)

We finally get Roxie dropped off, said our goodbyes, and we're on the road around midnight. Since I work for Schwans and drive all day on my route, DW took the first shift at driving. I of course decided to head off to dream land in the passenger seat. I woke up several times during the night, but slept most of the way til breakfast.

We stopped in Dufuniac, FL for breakfast and to top off the gas tank. DW asked my where I wanted to go for breakfast. I saw a sign for Hardee's and promptly told her that I remember Hardees from when I used to live in Kentucky as a teenager, and I remember it being good. Well, I guess I was remembering some other place, because the food at this place SUCKED. I don't recommend Hardees to anyone. We did however meet a nice girl from Louisiana who worked there. She gave us some directions and DW talked to her a little bit. Then we hit the road. Aftwer all, we're on a mission :)

My turn to drive now. DW headed to dreamland while I drove, but she doesn't do well in the car sleeping, so she didn't stay asleep too long. Sometime around 10:30, DW helped me navigate my way from I-75 onto the florida turnpike, and then to WDW. I told her to get the camera ready, and take a shot when we saw the entrance. Unfortunately, we had some glare on the windows and the picture didn't come out too well.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00501.jpg

Once through the gate and I wipe my silly smirk off my face (yes, we're finally here), we navigate the roads to CBR, check in at the security gate and try to check in.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00503.jpg

The lobby was really packed. It took us quite awhile in line waiting to get checked in. We waited til our turn Sharon (our CM at check-in) explained the room keys and dining plan to us. We had paid for a preferred room, and she upgraded us to King bed at no charge. :) She did say that our room was not quite ready so we would have to wait until we could go to our room. She said to try waiting about 20 minute and try calling. Well, 20 minutes turned into hours. We arrirved at check in around noon time, but didn't get into our room until almost 5.

While we were waiting for our room, we decided to check out "Old Port Royale" and have lunch. I can't eat much since I had a gastric bypass a couple years ago, so I ordered a kids nugget meal, and my DW ordered a cheese burger. They were really good.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00505.jpg

We still had time to wait til our room was ready, so we checked out the gift shop and DW headed outside for a quick smoke. Finally around 5 we were told our room number and were able to get into our room. Martinique 2616. It was a corner room with a great view.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00536.jpg

[penjen]

I can't wait to read more. I wish DH was as excited as you to be going to Disney. You write about it very well. :wave2:

[DISUNC]

Months ago, I was visiting one of my customers (a travel agency), and they had a sign on their billboard about free dining at WDW. Thats called a Limey Mystical Calling!


After waiting months for our vacation, and DW nagging at me to shut up about the trip :rotfl2:

We stopped in Dufuniac, FL Really thats the name of the town????? :teeth:

I don't recommend Hardees :thumbsup2 Noted!

Unfortunately, we had some glare on the windows and the picture didn't come out too well.Hang your head out the window! It looks good to me.

We still had time to wait til our room was ready, so we checked out the gift shop and DW headed outside for a quick smoke. Finally around 5 we were told our room number and were able to get into our room. Martinique 2616. It was a corner room with a great view.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00536.jpg :thumbsup2 WOW really GREAT VIEW

:thumbsup2 Ok Oakie, You gotz me hooked!!!!!!!!!! :cool1:

[MrOakie]

After a little bit of R&R in our room, we decided to head over to the Wildneress Lodge for our dining reservation. We decided to drive instead of take the bus. It's so easy to get around with all the signs. Didn't get lost one time :) When we arrived at WL, I kept telling my DW how much it reminded me of the summer's I worked in Yellowstone park. Wilderness lodge reminds me so much of Old Faithful Lodge. Great work Disney :thumbsup2
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00514.jpg

We arrived a little early so we could explore a little bit before eating. When we walked into the lobby, all I could say was.... WOW!!! I loved it immediately. When we got back, I'm going to try to stay here. We browsed through the lobby and gift shop, and I was very temped to buy this as a prize for post # 15,000. I thought it was too cute. Hot Chocolate that turns green? Loved it
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00516.jpg

We also got a cute picture of the totem pole in the lobby.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00517.jpg

We checked in at Whispering Canyon, but we still had a little time to spare, so we headed over to te lounge for a cocktail. I can't tell you when the last time was I had a drink. Normally the onlyt thing I drink is water and Diet Dr Pepper (not to be found in WDW). We decided to try something called a "Pina Colava". Outstanding, tasted like a raspberry cheesecake.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00525.jpg

Finally, our dinner buzzer went off. We were told we could take our drinks with us, so we headed next door to Whispering Canyon Cafe. Service was great. Very loud, and lots of stuff going on. We saw the pony races, and the poor people next to us ... they asked for ketchup...
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00532.jpg

we decided on the all you can eat skillet. Over all pretty good. The chicken was a little tough, and we didn't like the baked beans, but everything else was great. Loved the cornbread.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00531.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00533.jpg

We were too stuffed for desert, so we headed on back to CBR and rest up for the next day. Animal Kingdom up next.

[pixie dust 112]

Wow! Great pictures!!! We stayed at CBR years ago and loved it, but now stay at POR because we have three kidlets and POR sleeps 5. Love POR too though. We may stay at CBR next APril when LizzY is staying with her marching band! Can't wait to read more!

[stinkerbelle's mom]

You know we need more limeys like you. Happy 2 go, take great notes & pics. Even scouting out prizes for our poor overworked Cyn! And a TR with several installments no less! You make us proud! :thumbsup2 Now we gotta work on Mrs Oakie, shes supposed to be wearing lime nail polish--did Teresa set her straight on that?!?! :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao: can't wait for more!

[dwheatl]

After a little bit of R&R in our room, we decided to head over to the Wildneress Lodge for our dining reservation. We decided to drive instead of take the bus. It's so easy to get around with all the signs. Didn't get lost one time :)

Does your DW know how lucky she is to be married to a man who makes his living driving? Lucky girl!

[MrOakie]

What a difference a good night sleep makes. :) We got up a little early because Animal Kingdom had early magic hours. I got up first showered and got ready, then headed over to get drinks from the food court while my DW finished getting ready. While she was waiting for me to get back to the room, she took a picture outside our room. Kinda foggy coz she kept the A/C on the coldest setting, and the lense on the camera fogged over. It makes a great photo though.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00534.jpg

After we finished getting ready, we headed off to the bus stop. I have to say that I love the bus system at Disney. Our longest wait at any of the bus stops was about 10 minutes. Martinique was one of the first stops at CBR, so we always had a seat in the mornings when we left. After about a 15 minute ride over to Animal Kingdom, we headed inside and made a bee line for Expidition Everest. We passed through Asia and took a good morning shot of EE.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00542-1.jpg

We tried to get fast passes for EE, but our tickets were not working in the machine, so the CM at the Fast Pass distribution line manually printed them up for us. We then headed over to Kali River Rapids, and got Fast Passes (machine worked this time). We had some time to kill before EE, so we headed on over to see It's Tough to Be A Bug. The show was really cute. DW and I snapped pictures of each other with the bug glasses on. We look silly. But we were having a good time :)
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00551.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00552.jpg

When we exited the show, we headed back over to EE and used our fast passes. LOVED THE RIDE. DW isn't too much into roller coasters, but she really enjoyed it. I remembered to bring our voucher for the free photo for EE from VMK, so we got a free 5X7 print when we got off the ride. We're in the 3rd row. The smile on my face says it all, I really loved EE.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/EE1.jpg

[MrOakie]

Well, its back to work Tuesday. Don't have time to post any more at the moment. It will have to wait til I get home tonight. :)

[pixie dust 112]

You're making the rest of the club look bad posting this TR so quickly! :rotfl: I love the shirt you're wearing with your bug glasses! Keep the TRs coming! I love reading this!

[stinkerbelle's mom]

Another great installment!!! :thumbsup2 :wave: Love the picture of you all on the ride, she doesn't look as happy as you! ;)

[rer1972]

MrOakie I lived in Baton Rouge for just over a year; I was the manager at the Electronics Boutique in Mall of Lousiana. It was just a short time, but I have good memories of it.
Unfortunately, we had some glare on the windows and the picture didn't come out too well.that's what photo shop is for ;) !!!
We had paid for a preferred room, and she upgraded us to King bed at no charge. Cool some early pixiedust:
We had paid for a preferred room, and she upgraded us to King bed at no charge.You are a very patient person. :worship:
Kinda foggy coz she kept the A/C on the coldest setting, and the lense on the camera fogged over. It makes a great photo though.Cool, special effects :thumbsup2 .
Great pics MrOakie. I wonder if they still have the voucher for the 5X7 pic? Can't wait for the rest!! :thumbsup2

[Bev J]

The picture from your room at CBR really makes me want to stay there! It does look just like resorts we have seen in the Caribbean....

My Schwan's guy saves my life every two weeks....my freezer is full of yummy food...glad they let you off, you guys work way too long of hours!!

Bev

[uhtimex]

Well, its back to work Tuesday. Don't have time to post any more at the moment. It will have to wait til I get home tonight. :)


You are doing great, The pictures show what a great time you two had. I will be looking for more

[MrOakie]

Another great installment!!! :thumbsup2 :wave: Love the picture of you all on the ride, she doesn't look as happy as you! ;)

Well, since this is her first rollercoaster ride in over 16 years I think she did pretty good. :thumbsup2 We both wanted to ride it again, but we ran out of time at Animal Kingdom. She did really like it though :thumbsup2

[MrOakie]

I love the shirt you're wearing with your bug glasses!

It's a shirt from the Big Dog Store. I love their clothes. Seems everybody else does too, because I saw a couple people wearing the same shirts :) Their very comfortable.

[MrOakie]

After we left EE, we headed on over to Kali River Rapids to use our fast passes. We didn't want to risk our camera getting wet, so we packed it up tight in my backpack and were ready to ride. Good thing my bag was waterproof, coz I got drenched. I loved the rapids, I just wish the ride was longer. It seemed to be over in no time flat.

After the rapids, we took our time strolling over to Kilimanjaro Safaris. I wish we could have gone here first, we were a little disappointed. I'm sure the heat of the day kept alot of the animals out of t he open. Anyway, we got fast passes for the safari, and then back tracked a little bit to check out some of the shows, and jungle treks. I think we liked the walking treks better than the safari. I can't remember the names of all the animals, but we got some great pictures.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00557.jpg
I loved the bats
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00560.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00568.jpg

Still more time to go until we could get on the Safari, so we did the exotic bird show. I absolutely love bald eageles. Had to put this picture in:
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00596.jpg

After the bird show, we saw the tree woman (don't know what else to call her). She was really cool looking. One guy in the crowd just rushed pasted us complaining that she wasn't real and she was animatronic. LOL I've never seen animatronics move like that. She was great.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00600.jpg

I guess we should have just waited in line for the Safari, beacuse we still had a long time til we could use our fast passes. So we headed on over to do another jungle trek. We took a lot of great pictures of the animals on the trek, but I think my favorite on this one was the gorillas. Maybe we should do a "best caption contest" for this picture? See if you can figure out what he's thinking :goodvibes
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00626-1.jpg

After we finished with the trek, we were both kinda hungry so we decided to grab a bite to eat at the closesst restaurant. Seems like everybody else had the same idea, beacuse Tusker House was packed. The only table we could find was outside partially in the sun. Not exactly what you want when you're already hot, sticky, and *sniff sniff* STINKY. :rotfl2: DW was pretty hungry. You can see her hand reaching for lunch as I'm taking the picture.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00628.jpg
I have to say that I love the dining plan. They do really give you alot of food. We couldn't eat everything. We got the free dining when we booked, but if we had to pay for it, I still think it would be a bargain.

Ok, now time for the Safari. When we finished cleaing up from lunch, we headed back over to the Safari to use our fast passes. The ride was ok, and kinda moved a little fast. Didn't really get any good pictures. I guess the ride is better first thing in the morning when its not so hot and the animals are more active. Still though it was a good ride.

A little side note here. Several weeks before we left, my DW bought some sandals, and was bound and determined to break them in before we left for Disney. She wore them quite a bit before we left, but evdientally, not enough. After our first day, she's got sore feet, and the beginnings of blisters. I was doing my best not to drag her around the parks with her feet hurting so much. We stopped alot to rest her feet and to get out of the sun.

After the Safari, we thought we would head on over to try our hand at Dinosaur. We got our fast passes, and browsed through the shop until we could ride. I also ran to get us some water to cool off. While in the shop, we were looking at all the pictures of everybody on the ride, screaming and hollering :) Ducking to the left, and trying to protect their children. We were thinking "what's up with that?" It can't be that intense can it? LOL Anyway, finally time to ride. Great ride, and when the big dinosaur came to get us at the end of the ride, I was just laughing my butt off :rotfl2: We're in the last row.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/img005-1.jpg

By the time we paid for our pictures, we were getting really tired, and decided to head on back to the CBR to rest a bit before heading over to Beach Resort for dinnner at Cape May Cafe. We had a couple new guests in our hotel room.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00660.jpg

When we got cleaned up, we drove over to dinner at Cape May Cafe. Beach Club resort is a nice hotel, but I don't think I could stay there, just wan't my style. Dinner buffet was excellent. Here's a couple more pics for y'all.

I loved the shrimp, a bit messy but YUMMY
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00663.jpg
and a picture after dinner looking back toward the hotel as we were exploring the resort.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00670.jpg

Oh, Silly me forgot to charge the camera the night before, so I could only get one more picture around Beach Club resort. As we were walking back to the car, I got a picture of one of the many rabbits around the property. However, I don't think you want to mess with this psycho bunny
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00675.jpg

Back to CBR and rest for day #3 Epcot tomorrow.

[pixie dust 112]

Great update. I love the pics, especially the tree person! What kind of camera do you use? Or is it just your incredible photographer's skill?

[MrOakie]

Great update. I love the pics, especially the tree person! What kind of camera do you use? Or is it just your incredible photographer's skill?

It's an older cameara, Sony CD Mavica. It stores all its pictures on a min cd-rw. So when we're done taking pictures, we just take the cd out and pop it into our cd-rom drive and pull off all the pictures. Never once took a photo class. I'm just a point and shoot kinda guy. DW took some of the photos too.

[cherokeemamma]

Greetings MrOakie!
Really enjoying your TR. Thanks for posting and including pics. I have never seen the tree lady. Does she hang out in certain areas of AK or is it hit or miss seeing her? My DS and DD would love it :love: . Any advice on spotting her?
Thanks :wave:

[stinkerbelle's mom]

Wow, ya'll take some amazing pictures! :rotfl: at the psycho bunny!!! Love that you include pictures of your meals too. Can't wait for more....

[rer1972]

Great pictures MrOakie. Sony CD Mavica That's a good camera. Our repo dept. had one but someone dropped it :furious: . I don't think the newer more expensive one is any bettter.
Maybe we should do a "best caption contest" for this picture? See if you can figure out what he's thinking "You take one more picture buddy and I'm coming up there", is what Mr. Gorilla was thinking.
I also ran to get us some water to cool off. While in the shop, we were looking at all the pictures of everybody on the ride, screaming and hollering Ducking to the left, and trying to protect their children. We were thinking "what's up with that?" It can't be that intense can it?Love the kid in the second row; buddy not hearing the roars is not gonna help ya. I've ridden Dinsosaur more times than I can remember and I still lean over every time that darn dinosaur comes up on the vehicle. I can't wait to ride it again!
We had a couple new guests in our hotel room.Very creative; and with stickers and all.
However, I don't think you want to mess with this psycho bunnyNot psycho; it's animatronic :rotfl: .
Great update. Hope your feeling better today.

[BeautyNBeast]

Loving your TR! I love that you are so into WDW! Cannot wait to read more

[SleepingBeautyDreamr]

Great report so far. I love the pictures.

[Jennifer48]

I'm in.

Devine is the tree lady's name. I've only seen her once in my three trips to AK. I'll look for her this weekend! :banana:

:moped:

[uhtimex]

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00626-1.jpg

.

I think it is pretty clear what he is thinking.

"will the cease fire in the middle east hold? and if does not, how involved will Iran and Syria become in the conflict. If Iran becomes too involved would that spike the crude oil prices and in turn raise the gas prices? That could cause the travel industry to slow down which would cause attendance here at AK to drop off and maybe they would shut the park down......I am not going back to that little zoo in Iowa I won't do it"

or he could just be thinking about lunch

This is a great report and the pics are wonderful

[MrOakie]

Greetings MrOakie!
Really enjoying your TR. Thanks for posting and including pics. I have never seen the tree lady. Does she hang out in certain areas of AK or is it hit or miss seeing her? My DS and DD would love it :love: . Any advice on spotting her?
Thanks :wave:

From what I read about other peoples trips to Animal kingdom is that she's not out all the time. We got lucky I guess. We were just walking along and I saw her and had to get her picture. I think she was near the entrance to the exotic bird show. I'm not sure if you just see her there or all around the park.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00602.jpg This was another picture of her. Very hard to spot when she's stopped on the side of the paths.

[pixie dust 112]

I think it is pretty clear what he is thinking.

"will the cease fire in the middle east hold? and if does not, how involved will Iran and Syria become in the conflict. If Iran becomes too involved would that spike the crude oil prices and in turn raise the gas prices? That could cause the travel industry to slow down which would cause attendance here at AK to drop off and maybe they would shut the park down......I am not going back to that little zoo in Iowa I won't do it"

or he could just be thinking about lunch

This is a great report and the pics are wonderful
:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[MrOakie]

I think it is pretty clear what he is thinking.

"will the cease fire in the middle east hold? and if does not, how involved will Iran and Syria become in the conflict. If Iran becomes too involved would that spike the crude oil prices and in turn raise the gas prices? That could cause the travel industry to slow down which would cause attendance here at AK to drop off and maybe they would shut the park down......I am not going back to that little zoo in Iowa I won't do it"

or he could just be thinking about lunch

This is a great report and the pics are wonderful

You've got me and my DW busting a gut laughing :rotfl2:

[dwheatl]

I'm loving the TR. Your photos are fabulous, except I'm trying to lose the weight I gained this summer, and your food pics are driving me nutso! I'm going to brush my teeth before I start hunting for an all night shrimp restaurant. :teeth:

[Hoosier Mom]

Does Devine talk?

[rer1972]

Does Devine talk?Only if you try to chop her down. ;)


MrOakie I thought I read where you didn't think you wanted to do an update for your day at Epcot? Pleeeeeaaaasssssssse. Even it was bad I'm sure there could be some benefit to sharing bad experiences(my therapist says that all the time :crazy: ), and I bet you have some good pictures. Unless it was so bad that you really don't want to relive it again.

[PigletFairy]

love the TR! Do you know where i could get this coveted free everest picture coupon?

[MrOakie]

love the TR! Do you know where i could get this coveted free everest picture coupon?

I'm not sure if they are still offering the coupon, but we got ours by playing the EE game on Virtual Magic Kingdom (www.vmk.com). Our voucher said it was good until the 31st of August. So I don't know if you can still get it :confused3

[MrOakie]

Only if you try to chop her down. ;)


MrOakie I thought I read where you didn't think you wanted to do an update for your day at Epcot? Pleeeeeaaaasssssssse. Even it was bad I'm sure there could be some benefit to sharing bad experiences(my therapist says that all the time :crazy: ), and I bet you have some good pictures. Unless it was so bad that you really don't want to relive it again.

Well, I do plan on posting a report for our Epcot Day (Day #3) Just didn't feel like posting it when I wrote about it earlier. It wasn't a good day... but MGM and Magic Kingdom made up for it :)

[Disneyland_Mama]

Great TR. I love the pictures. Oh, and that photo of your wife with the bug glasses... is she wearing lime green? :thumbsup2
Thanks for sharing!!

[MrOakie]

This was going to be our second day in the parks. Epcot had early magic hours, but we decided not to go early. DW's feet were still sore from Animal Kingdom the day before, so we thought we'd try and take it easy today.

We left CBR around 10 AM, and had about a 5 minute wait for the bus to Epcot. When the bus dropped us off at Epcot, we didn't realize we'd be dropped off in the back 40. It was quite a trek to the entry. Our first stop was a trek over to Soaring, to get fast passes. I was really shocked when I looked at the time stamp for our return. We got our passes around 11:15 AM, but our fast passes told us to return at 4PM. Long wait, and now we couldn't get another fast pass for another hour. I really wanted to check out the greenhouses on the Living with the Land boat ride, but it was closed.

To kill some time, we headed over to The Living Seas, and explored the aquariums. We thought about Turtle Talk with Crush, but it was so crazy in there. During our exploration, we took these photos.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00696.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00697.jpg

After leaving the aquariums, we found our way over to Honey I shrunk the Audience, and decided to wait in line. It seemed like over on hour wait. I didn't know what was going on (didn't remember the line taking this long when I took my dad to Disneyland in CA). I remember the show being funnier, but I guess that's what a few years do to your memory :rotfl2: At least we were out of the sun. We also rode through Journey Into Imagination With Figment. Kinda corny (definately for kids) We did get my DW a Figment stress ball. She was squeezing it the rest of the day. LOL

[pixie dust 112]

This was going to be our second day in the parks. Epcot had early magic hours, but we decided not to go early. DW's feet were still sore from Animal Kingdom the day before, so we thought we'd try and take it easy today.

We left CBR around 10 AM, and had about a 5 minute wait for the bus to Epcot. When the bus dropped us off at Epcot, we didn't realize we'd be dropped off in the back 40. It was quite a trek to the entry. Our first stop was a trek over to Soaring, to get fast passes. I was really shocked when I looked at the time stamp for our return. We got our passes around 11:15 AM, but our fast passes told us to return at 4PM. Long wait, and now we couldn't get another fast pass for another hour. I really wanted to check out the greenhouses on the Living with the Land boat ride, but it was closed.

To kill some time, we headed over to The Living Seas, and explored the aquariums. We thought about Turtle Talk with Crush, but it was so crazy in there. During our exploration, we took these photos.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00696.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00697.jpg

After leaving the aquariums, we found our way over to Honey I shrunk the Audience, and decided to wait in line. It seemed like over on hour wait. I didn't know what was going on (didn't remember the line taking this long when I took my dad to Disneyland in CA). I remember the show being funnier, but I guess that's what a few years do to your memory :rotfl2: At least we were out of the sun. We also rode through Journey Into Imagination With Figment. Kinda corny (definately for kids) We did get my DW a Figment stress ball. She was squeezing it the rest of the day. LOL


Oh No! We Love FIgment. Both kids and adults. I bet we do this at least 3 times every trip. Just mentioning it in your TR is making me sing the song!

I really want to see Turtle Talk! When we went in July it was just to crowded! I hope we get to see it in September!

[MrOakie]

Since I didn't take good notes while at Epcot, I'm trying to piece together the time line for the rest of the afternoon. I know we rode Test Track, Mission Space, and finally got to use our fast passes for Soaring, but I can't remember what order.

I think it was Mission Space up to bat next. We decided to do the green line for the less intense ride. I kinda wish we had done the more intense one. This ride was a blast. We really did like Mission Space. Our co-pilots on our ride were from Russia. They were too funny. DW was trying to point at the buttons they needed to push. They enjoyed the ride too. After MS, we headed on over to the Electric Umbrella and had some lunch. No lunch photo this time. I forgot to take a picture before we started eating.

After lunch, it was getting close to our fast pass return for Soaring, so we headed out. What happened next I thought was really stupid. Our Fast pass said we could return at 3:50PM for Soarin. We timed it almost perfect, and got up to the CM at the fast pass return line, and showed him our passes. It was 3:48, and he wouldn't let us go in. He said we had to wait 2 minutes. Mind you... nobody was in line behind us, and once inside the return line, it took us about 3 minutes to get up to the point where they actually took our fast passes. Kinda stupid on the first CM if you ask me. I guess everybody has a bad day though.

Soarin was nice. I felt a little home sick though when I rode it. I was born in San Francisco, and I love California, so it was kind of emotional :) And I love the soar over Disneyland with the fireworks. :thumbsup2

Alright... .guess its getting late so i better finish day 3 a little later.

Here is one shot I forgot to post at the beginning of Day #3.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00688.jpg

TaTa for now

[MrOakie]

Great TR. I love the pictures. Oh, and that photo of your wife with the bug glasses... is she wearing lime green? :thumbsup2
Thanks for sharing!!

I think it was a turquoise shirt. more blueish than green. She does have a lime green shirt, but didn't wear it to any of the parks.

[pixie dust 112]

I don't think they ever let you in before the fastpass time. In any of the parks.

[dwheatl]

We had our only bad experience with a CM at Epcot too. That must be where they post the tight :eeyore: :eeyore: :eeyore: . If they're going to hold you up for a fast pass, at least they could do a little friendly chatter :chat: "Where ya from? How long are you here? What have you enjoyed so far?"

[rer1972]

I'm so glad you posted MrOakie. Bringing up Journey Into Imagination made me think of this clip I like to watch every so often(see below). It's not mine, but it's the original better version. I think I liked it better than the new one cause it had a bit of small world and other rides dark rides. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLXjw_Vz4HQ I watched it again today and realized how much creepier the creepy parts were.
It was 3:48, and he wouldn't let us go in. He said we had to wait 2 minutes. Mind you... nobody was in line behind us, and once inside the return line, it took us about 3 minutes to get up to the point where they actually took our fast passes. Kinda stupid on the first CM if you ask me. I guess everybody has a bad day though.2 Minutes? Talk about stick in the mud; maybe more like a stick up the...

[MrOakie]

I'm so glad you posted MrOakie. Bringing up Journey Into Imagination made me think of this clip I like to watch every so often(see below). It's not mine, but it's the original better version. I think I liked it better than the new one cause it had a bit of small world and other rides dark rides. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLXjw_Vz4HQ I watched it again today and realized how much creepier the creepy parts were.
2 Minutes? Talk about stick in the mud; maybe more like a stick up the...

:rotfl2: :lmao:

[pixie dust 112]

I'm so glad you posted MrOakie. Bringing up Journey Into Imagination made me think of this clip I like to watch every so often(see below). It's not mine, but it's the original better version. I think I liked it better than the new one cause it had a bit of small world and other rides dark rides. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLXjw_Vz4HQ I watched it again today and realized how much creepier the creepy parts were.
2 Minutes? Talk about stick in the mud; maybe more like a stick up the...


Thank you for posting that. My DH and I were just talking about the original ride a few days ago and I was commenting that I remember I loved it, but for the life of me couldn't remember a thing from it! Now I remember how come i liked it so much. I love the one now, but the origianl was even better. They also had one in between that was absolutely horrible. Didn't even have figment in it!

[MrOakie]

When Soarin' let out, we stopped and had a cold drink before we headed across the park over to Test Track. We stopped and watched the music/water show at the big fountains behind Spaceship Earth. Also had to find a place for a quick smoke for DW (otherwise she can get a bit grumpy) LOL

By the time we made it over to Test Track, there was a sign saying all fast passes had been distributed for the day, so we had to wait in line. Not sure exactly how long the wait was. As far as rides go, TT was ok (not my favorite). The best part was the high speed banked turn. I guess since I'm on the road all the time on my truck, that a car ride didn't really seem that interesting to me.

We took a little time exploring the gift shop outside TT, then we decided to head on over to the World Showcase. DW's feet were starting to hurt again, so we made it a quick trip around the world and headed on over to our dinner reservations at Rose & Crown Pub.

We did stop in Mexico for a couple strawberry margaritas.
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I was really impressed with the little train villagae they had setup near Germany, it was really cool.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00721.jpg

I guess maybe if we had more time to explore, we would have liked Epcot more. We wanted to make sure we got our reservation, so we didn't really stop to explore all the countries. We got a few shots as we passed around.

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New when we did make it on over to the UK, we checked in at Rose & Crown Pub and were given a pager. You know the rest.... wait for your pager to go off, and then come back to be seated. While we were waiting for our table, there was a music show going on just down the road. Not sure of the name of the group, but the guy on the bagpipes really kicked butt. :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00743.jpg

Ok, here is where we really get the bad feeling about Epcot. We waited for our buzzer to go off. When it did, we headed back over to Rose & Crown Pub to be seated. We were hoping to get on outside table so we could sit and watch Illuminations. Well, we got a table inside (which we were ok with). We were seated by our hostess, and were given our servers name (Ian), and that was it. We looked over the menus, and had decided what we wanted to eat/drink. We were curious that no one had come by to ask about drinks or anything. I tried several times to get a servers attention, but nobody ever stopped by our table. Now, I understand when restaurants get busy. A quick stop at our table to say that your busy and you would be back in a moment to take our orders would have eased our waiting time. Did anyone stop?? NOPE We tried and tried to get someones attention, but after waiting 20 minutes, we decided enough was enough. We grabbed our ticket, and headed back up to the hostess stand to tell them we were leaving. Now my wife can be very vocal at times (You don't want to upset her... trust me :lmao: ).... She made it a point to let the hostess know how displeased we were.

After a day that had been less than stellar, Rose and Crown Pub pushed us over the top. We decided just to head on back to CBR and have dinner in the food court. We didn't stay for Illuminations. We made the long trek back to the bus stop, and rode back to CBR. When cleaned up in our room, then went to get a bite to eat (about 9PM now) We stopped at the Concierge desk in Old Port Royale and told them about our trouble with dinner at Rose & Crown. The concierge CM was really nice, and apologized for the poor service. She credited our dinnig plan with 2 extra table service dinners. We didn't really want that, we just didn't want the same thing to happen to anyone else. We traded our table service meals for counter service meals, and got 2 vouchers for a free lanyard and trading pins. After dinner we went to the giftshop in Port Royale, and made my DW a mickey charm bracelet. Then headed on back to our room and try to rest up for MGM on day 4.

[pixie dust 112]

:sad2: :sad2: :sad2: Oh that is such a bummer! I've never eaten at rose and crown, but having to wait that long for your server stinks! Sorry you didn't have time to really explore World Showcase. That is my favorite part of WDW. I've been many times. First time it had just opened and there were only 6 countries! I always discover something new hidden there. The shows out on the street are great!

[stinkerbelle's mom]

Another bunch of great installments. Sorry your dw's feet were hurting & that you both didn't enjoy Epcot! :(

[dwheatl]

I'm sorry you missed Illuminations. It's pretty amazing. I'm thinking counter service might be the way to go in WS, based on our experience and yours.

[MrOakie]

Well, last I left you, we had just finished up with a not so spectacular day at Epcot. We did manage to get back to CBR and have a nice dinner in the food court at Port Royale. We did manage to see some of the fireworks at Epcot from our room. We finished the night with a cold drink from the soda fountain, and then back to the room for a good night's rest.

The next morning, we're up and ready to go to MGM. We packed a few water bottles, the camera, sun screen and snacks into our bag and headed for the bus. Again, just a couple minute wait and we were on our way. When we got to MGM, I broke the camera out of the bag, but the lense was kind of foggy because it was sitting right next to the water bottles in our back pack.
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Once inside MGM we made a b-line for Tower of Terror.
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I went to get our fast passes and then we headed on over to Rock N' RollerCoaster to check the line. It was a pretty big line, so we shopped a little bit before heading back over to TT to ride. We absolutely love Tower of Terror. DW love the Twilight Zone. I can't tell you how many drops we had on the ride, but we loved it :) Our picture is kinda funny. I don't know exactly what I'm trying to point at... You can tell how much we enjoyed it. Look at those stupid grins on our faces. :teeth: (we're back row on the right)
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/img004.jpg

When we got off TT, we waited for our ride picture and had it sent to CBR (I love that service). Next up, we went to get fast passes for Rock N' RollerCoaster. I was in shock a little bit when I saw the return stamp on the fast passes. Almost 4PM, and it was only 11 AM now. We decided to stay and wait in line for RR and use our fast passes later. It was quite a wait a little over an hour. DW didn't like it as much as TT, but I loved RR too. I didn't quite expect it to speed off so quick at the start. I love rides like that :thumbsup2
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/img006.jpg

[MrOakie]

Since we had the 2 big rides out of the way for the day, we decided to get bite to eat, and a quick smoke for DW. Can't remember the name of the place we had lunch, but it was close to RR.

We explored MGM quite a bit before heading over to Star Tours. We had to wait about 45 minutes in line, but we met a nice family from Massechusetts. We told them we were from Louisiana, and they asked a ton of questions about Katrina and all. Actually, this happened just about every time someone asked us where we were from. Everyone was curious about the damage and the cleanup efforts. We also let them know how grateful we were for all the help people had sent to Louisiana after Katrina last year. Back to Star Tours. It was fun. Just like Star Tours in Disneyland. When we stepped off the ride, we gave our fast passes for RR to the couple we had been talking to. We didn't want to have to race back across the park to use them, so they gave the passes to their teen daughters and they raced off.

While we were in the vicinity, we stopped and watched the Muppet :3dglasses show. Not quite as entertaining as It's Tough to Be A Bug, but still cute. Oh, almost forgot. We also wento into the Indiana Jones Stunt Show. The show wasn't what I expected. I wish MGM had an Indiana Jones ride like the one at Disneyland. Still more shopping after the show, and more pictures. (We took 500+ pictures in the 6 days we were in Florida).

After all the walking around, and exploring, we found Sci-Fi Dine in Theatre. It wasn't quite time for our dinner reservations, but we checked to see if we could get in early, and we were seated about 45 minutes early. The food was great :thumbsup2 And we loved the Horror Movie Clips on the big screen. DW and I found out we love spinach artichoke dip (totally awesome) :thumbsup2
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The onion rings, dip, steaks and potatoes were all great :thumbsup2 .... BUT.. they RUINED the veggies... YUCKO BROCCOLLI :lmao:

When we finished up with dinner, it was close to 7PM. Since I had been to the fireworks shows at Disneyland before I told my DW that we had better get over to Fantasmic so we could find a good seat. She said it was too early, but I told her people start to line up more than an hour before the shows. I'm glad she listened to me (this time :teeth: ) We were close to the front of the waiting area when they opened up the ampitheatre. We chose to sit near the back of the ampitheatre, so we could be ahead of the crowd when the show was over. We got some sodas and some carmel corn while we waited an hour plus for the show to start. We weren't sure if they were actually going to put on a show, because it had been sprinkling a little bit, and there were some thunderstorms earlier in the day. While we waited, we got a good picture of a rainbow over the stage.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00768.jpg

While we were waiting for the show to start, there were some rude people sitting just to the left of us. Every couple of minutes they were up and down wanted to get past us. Looking for their friends, and going to get soda and food. If it was once or twice, it would have been ok, but they must have gotten up about 20 times. Once the show started though they settled down.
Our camera doesn't take great night photos, but we managed a few pictures of the show.
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After the show, we headed straight for the exit to the park and back to the bus stop. We waited for the 2nd bus this time, DW's feet were still aching (now from 3 days in the parks - no telling how bad they will feel after tomorrow). When we got back to CBR, we refilled our mugs at Port Royale, and DW got a couple more charms for her bracelet we made for her the night before. Now back to the room to clean up and get some rest for our big day at Magic Kingdom.

More to come ... Day 5 Magic Kingdom

[dwheatl]

Had you seen Fantasmic at DL? How do you think it compared? I like the DL show better, but having a place to sit at MGM sure is nice.
You sure seem like a great hubby, very solicitous of your DW's needs. You know what they say; happy wife, happy life. :love2:

[MrOakie]

Had you seen Fantasmic at DL? How do you think it compared? I like the DL show better, but having a place to sit at MGM sure is nice.
You sure seem like a great hubby, very solicitous of your DW's needs. You know what they say; happy wife, happy life. :love2:


It's been quite a few years since I went to Disneyland. I think I have to agree with you though. I think the show at DL is better. But I do remember having to sit on the ground.

Yepp, gotta keep the wife happy. They also say... If momma aint happy... ain't nobody happy :rotfl2: :lmao:

[pixie dust 112]

great update. You're pictures of Fantasmic are Fantasmic! :)

[Minniespal]

Enjoying reading your reports ~ Thanx for sharing.

[MrOakie]

It's been a few days since I've been able to post anything on here, but y'all know how it goes ... gotta get the bills paid somehow. I've got our last Disney day TR coming up with lots of pictures.

[pixie dust 112]

It's been a few days since I've been able to post anything on here, but y'all know how it goes ... gotta get the bills paid somehow. I've got our last Disney day TR coming up with lots of pictures.

Can't wait! I was just showing LizzY your pics. She may use your fantasmic picture of Mickey as her desktop!

[MrOakie]

This was our last full day at Disney, so we decided to save the best park for last. I kinda fibbed when I said this was OUR first trip to WDW. Well, for me it was my first trip. However, this was my DW's second trip. Her parents took her to WDW when she was 4 (not gonna say how long ago that was... don't want to get in trouble). When we walked through some of the park, and went on some of the rides, she kept saying "I remember this" We had such a good time :thumbsup2

We left CBR around 9AM and headed over to the Magic Kingdom. Did I mention before how much I love the bus system at WDW? Another 5 minute wait for the bus. Our first stop once we got to the MK was a quick stop for a photo op.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00814.jpg

We were in no big hurry today, so we casually strolled down main street and checked out some of the shops before we headed off to the rides. We headed off in the direction of Adventure Land to check out The Jungle Cruise. DW said she remembered the cruise from her trip with her parents, so that was going to be our first ride. She remembered the hippos, the elephants, and the guys scurrying up the pole away from the rhino.

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I love that last photo

Our next stop was one of my favorite rides at Disneyland... Pirates of the Caribbean. I was amazed how short the line was. We only had to wait about 5 minutes to ride. I love the new additions from the movie. Disney did a great job with the update :thumbsup2

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00855.jpg
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[pixie dust 112]

Great pics...again. Can't wait til you get the picks of the Lime Green couch and love seat fot our secret green club :thumbsup2 .

[MrOakie]

After Pirates we did a little more window shopping and DW had a quick smoke. While she was resting, I rushed over to Splash Mountain to get fast passes. Our tickets weren't working in the machine, so I had to have a cm manually issue the tickets. Since they didn't work at SM, I thought I'd try to get Big Thunder Railroad too. They didn't work their either, so I got another CM to issue fast passes for Big Thunder too. I drug DW over to watch everyone coming down Splash Mountain (another of my favorite rides at Disneyland) Before we could ride, we still had about 40 minutes, so we decided to get some lunch. Not sure of the name of the place, but it was really good.

Double Cheeseburger, Chicken Wrap, Sodas, and some peanut butter brownie thing (YUMMY). Disney really does give you too much food. We couldn't eat it all.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00878.jpg

Ok, now we had our bellies full, we sat and people watched for a lil bit too, then we headed off to Splash Mountain. I love Brer Rabbit.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00879.jpg

Oh.. Just by luck, we got the front row. We got drenched. Good thing our camera bag was waterproof.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/img003.jpg

After we picked up our picture, I rushed around and got us 2 more fast passes for Splash Mountain. DW thought it would be nice to take the Disney RR around the Park. I was a little dissappointed in the RR. Not quite the same as Disneyland. If I remember correctly, the Disneyland RR has a tunnel area where they have a mini grand canyon display. I was hoping it would be the same at WDW, but it wasn't :confused3 It was still a nice relaxing ride. We complete the whole loop.

Next stop was Country Bear Jamboree. I love the animatronics. The show is exactly how I remember from Disneyland. Really crowded in there when stopped.
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Up next was Haunted Mansion. DW said she remembered some of the attraction from when she was little. She said it used to be a walk through?? Not sure, but she did say she remember alot of it. Near the end of the ride, there was some sort of glitch and the ride stopped for about 2 or 3 minutes, but they got it running and we continued our journey through the mansion.
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[MrOakie]

Great pics...again. Can't wait til you get the picks of the Lime Green couch and love seat fot our secret green club :thumbsup2 .

I forgot my camera last time I went to that business last week. I'll try to get it this coming Wednesday though. I see them every 2 weeks. I'm positive they haven't sold it yet.

[MrOakie]

When I told y'all we took tons of pictures, I wasn't kidding. In just over 5 days, we took over 550 pictures. We were snapping left and right.

We continued our trek around the park. We really had no desire to go into Mickey's Toon area. Perhaps when we go back to WDW in the future we'll check it out. Just around the bend, we saw It's A Small World, so we had to ride. DW said she couldn't remember that much about IASW, but she did remember the CanCan Dancers.
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While we were on IASW we got a voicemail message from Teresa. We were going to meet her later in the day. (Finally going to meet another DISer).

After IASW we headed out so DW could get another quick smoke, then we trekked on down to watch Mickey's Philharmagic. It was a cute show, and it was out of the sun in the AC, so we liked it :thumbsup2 We also managed to check out Stitches Great Escape. I thought it was gross when Stitch burped up chili dogs on your neck. (GROSS :rotfl2: ) DW really wanted to do Stitches Great Escape. So I made her a deal. If I went on Stich, she had to go on Buzz Light Year.

Before we went on Buzz Light Year, we saw this next little guy and had to get a picture. A stranded DISer?
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00992.jpg

From the pictures I had seen online, I knew they took your picture somewhere on BuzzLight Year, I just didn't know where. I was having too much fun to care. I don't remember what DW was saying to me when they snapped the photo, but we look like total GOOBERS :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: We had such a good time.
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We got another call from Teresa. We were going to meet in front of the Castle before DW and I went to have dinner at Tony's Town Square. I wish we had more time. Anyways, while we were strolling back toward Main Street, we got a few more pictures of the castle.
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We got to Main Street a little ahead of Teresa, so DW decided to sit and have a smoke while we waited. She was on the phone with Teresa for a little while until we spotted her. Her oldest son was very nice, all well behave :) We talked for a little while (maybe 20 minutes?) We also had the photopass photographer take our picture in front of the castle before we headed off to dinner. Teresa and her kids are very nice :thumbsup2
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When we got up to Tony's Town Square, we didn't have that long to wait for our reservations. We had a very nice meal. I know I'm going to make all of you hungry with these pictures, but here goes anyways :)

Spinach Dip
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Salad
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Spaghetti with Italian Sausage
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and I forgot the name of DW's entree.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01007.jpg
I forgot to get a picture of desert. We didn't really like it. Some sort of orange filled cannoli, and tiramisu (not sure of the spelling).
On our way out of the restaurant, DW got a picture of the fountain.
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After dinner, we didn't stay for the fireworks show, we decided to head over to Downtown Disney for a little bit. We headed back to CBR to freshen up, then drove over to DTD. Now this is where 5 days at Disney really gets to you. 5 days on her feet and DW's feet were killing her, and I'm dragging her around DTD :blush: We managed to stop and get a few souveneirs and had to stop at Goofy's Candy Company to make some cups. By this time DW's feet didn't want to walk anymore, so we called it quits for the night and headed back to CBR for one good nights rest before heading to Jacksonville the next day.

[crossfamily]

Ok great report!!! Yes to all I am officially crazy for taking my 3 kids to DW alone. And I too wished we had more time together. Your DW and I hit it off great. She is my kinda gal. Now on your first meal be honest you only bought the kid nugget meal for the bucket and shovel!!!!! I know you now you can't get nothing past me... I love to tree people. We catch them everytime we go. They were heading in this time so I couldn't get a pic of them. They are so cool. You are so lucky to have housekeeping in your hotel. I love the towels. I would of loved any type of towels. LOL. I wish we could have done Epcot together. You guys would have loved to see it through Anthony's eyes. He is such a geek when it comes to that stuff. Now I didn't know you have been to DL. I am currently trying to convince my DH to let me go while he is skiing in Jan. I need details. E=mail me with some please. And to set the record straight for the rest of my fellow limeys My kids are monsters don't' let him fool you. Just ask Poohgal05. I so enjoyed meeting you guys. Thanks for all the kind words. How was Kennedy and the rest of your trip home? Been very busy catching up myself. Great TR!

[hockeymomoftwo]

Great Report Mr Oakie just gets me more excited to get there. :thumbsup2

[pixie dust 112]

Fun report!

[rer1972]

This was going to be our second day in the parks. Epcot had early magic hours, but we decided not to go early. DW's feet were still sore from Animal Kingdom the day before, so we thought we'd try and take it easy today.

We left CBR around 10 AM, and had about a 5 minute wait for the bus to Epcot. When the bus dropped us off at Epcot, we didn't realize we'd be dropped off in the back 40. It was quite a trek to the entry. Our first stop was a trek over to Soaring, to get fast passes. I was really shocked when I looked at the time stamp for our return. We got our passes around 11:15 AM, but our fast passes told us to return at 4PM. Long wait, and now we couldn't get another fast pass for another hour. I really wanted to check out the greenhouses on the Living with the Land boat ride, but it was closed.

To kill some time, we headed over to The Living Seas, and explored the aquariums. We thought about Turtle Talk with Crush, but it was so crazy in there. During our exploration, we took these photos.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00696.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00697.jpg

After leaving the aquariums, we found our way over to Honey I shrunk the Audience, and decided to wait in line. It seemed like over on hour wait. I didn't know what was going on (didn't remember the line taking this long when I took my dad to Disneyland in CA). I remember the show being funnier, but I guess that's what a few years do to your memory :rotfl2: At least we were out of the sun. We also rode through Journey Into Imagination With Figment. Kinda corny (definately for kids) We did get my DW a Figment stress ball. She was squeezing it the rest of the day. LOL
For some reason when I first read your Epcot update I didn't get to see the shark pictures. They're great, but seeing as my mind is always slanted if have to point out the guy in your wife's picture peeking around a corner. Hee Hee points for strangers backside in a picture :rotfl: . I think I'm going to start a photo thread with a point scoring system for funny/weird stuff in pictures. Hmmm :scratchin

[rer1972]

We stopped at the Concierge desk in Old Port Royale and told them about our trouble with dinner at Rose & Crown. The concierge CM was really nice, and apologized for the poor service. She credited our dinnig plan with 2 extra table service dinners. We didn't really want that, we just didn't want the same thing to happen to anyone else. We traded our table service meals for counter service meals, and got 2 vouchers for a free lanyard and trading pins. After dinner we went to the giftshop in Port Royale, and made my DW a mickey charm bracelet. Then headed on back to our room and try to rest up for MGM on day 4.
I can understand how upsetting it is when you get ignored for 20 minutes at a restaurant. Wow, that concierge cm was great! It didn't make up for the time you wasted (you could have been on another ride), but it sure was nice of her to try and makeup for it.

[rer1972]

When we got to MGM, I broke the camera out of the bag, but the lense was kind of foggy because it was sitting right next to the water bottles in our back pack.Like'n the FX. Really MrOakie you take some great pics. The one of ToT is great. The darn thing would make a great postcard.
While we were in the vicinity, we stopped and watched the Muppet show. Not quite as entertaining as It's Tough to Be A Bug, but still cute. Oh, almost forgot. We also wento into the Indiana Jones Stunt Show. The show wasn't what I expected. I wish MGM had an Indiana Jones ride like the one at Disneyland. One of my favorites; I think it has something to do with me loving the original Muppet Show so much. The Indy Ride at DL is the one ride I wish Disney would put in Florida. Maybe they havne't because it's similar to Dinosaur. If they did I'd still have both in my top 10.
The onion rings, dip, steaks and potatoes were all great .... BUT.. they RUINED the veggies... YUCKO BROCCOLLI That steak plate looks pretty tasty. I'm getting very hungry now.
Our camera doesn't take great night photos, but we managed a few pictures of the show. :confused3 ???? That picture of Mickey looks pretty good to me. Especially with all the flashes, water spray, and other things that usually get in the way of good pics at Fantasmic.
Great update. Took me a while to get to it, but it was worth it. Next up MK.

[rer1972]

This was our last full day at Disney :sad1: Yes, that is a tear falling down the smiley's cheek. So sad, so sad.
Oh.. Just by luck, we got the front row. We got drenched. Good thing our camera bag was waterproof.Awesome, front row!
I was hoping it would be the same at WDW, but it wasn't It was still a nice relaxing ride. We complete the whole loop.I like the RR at Disneyland better too. I remeber there being a dinosaur section too.
Before we went on Buzz Light Year, we saw this next little guy and had to get a picture. A stranded DISer? Well, he's got the LGMH's on his shirt so I'm guessing yes a Diser and possibly a Secret Green Club member.
Love the report and photos MrOakie. I so wish I was already going.

[MrOakie]

:thumbsup2 Our time at WDW was us :guilty: and it was time to start heading back to the real world. However, we had one last side trip to make. It actually took us 2 days to get home.

On our last morning, we got up, showered and packed, got the car already to go, then we drove around to Port Royale at CBR for a late breakfast. And of course we had to stop in the gift shop to get some last minute souveniers. DW got us matching "Where the Magic Lives" shirts.

After paying for everything in the gift shop we got in our suv, and headed east toward Melbourne. DW had somebody she wanted to meet. One of her clients that she talks with all the time at work. I very nice group of ladies.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01010.jpg.

After about 45 minutes of chit chat, we hit the road again. Headed east til we got to I-95 then straight up the coast. We had heard on the news that the space shuttle was supposed to blast off this weekend, so we thought we would try and take a tour of the Kenedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral. They key word is TRY. As we got close and close to Kenedy Space Center it started to rain, and then just got worse and worse.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01023.jpg

We did manage to make it to the Space Center, but we decided not to go on the tour because of the bad weather, not to mention the fact that the tour was almost $40 per person. Does this mean I'm CHEAP??? I mean... I spent thousands to see a mouse, but won't spend $80 to see the space shuttle. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I tell you what though, the next picture was really worth the stop. Before deciding not to go in, these 2 women came running out to their car. DW and I started laughing like crazy at their impromptu hats and rain jackets. :rotfl:
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01014.jpg
We did manage to get a picture of a mock space shuttle as we continued our way up the coast. The space museum had a replica of the shuttle by the side of the road, so we got a picture of that one.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01024.jpg

I don't think we even stopped for lunch that day. I think we just snacked on some of the junk we brought with us for the trip. Now for everyone who has ever taken a long road trip, you know that it sometimes gets boring in the car. Well, DW got bored too. So, she started to play with the stress ball that we had bought at Epcot a few day ago. When I say she got bored, I mean really bored. Look for yourselves. :lmao: :lmao:
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01027.jpg
She called it a sea urchin and blew kisses at everyone who passed us. I was laughing so hard. I told her she looked like a retard. She just laughed.

We made it up the coast to Jacksonville, and headed on over to Oak Park where we had a hotel reservation. We checked in and went to our room, and after a minute discussion we checked back out. The place was nasty. We had never stayed at an EconoLodge before. Never plan to again. It was really gross. So much for Internet reservations. We headed on over to the Fairfield Inn by Mariott and spent the night there. We got to meet a couple more of my wifes friends (We gave her kids the lanyards and trading pins from CBR). We went to eat at some local seafood place. I don't remember the name, but it was really good.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01030.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01032.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01033.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01034.jpg Messy from eating cheetos
After dinner, we headed back to the hotel and talked with DW's friend until about 11:30, then we headed off to dream land.

More coming soon.

[MrOakie]

We had a good night sleep at the hotel. But we were anxious to get home and sleep in our own beds again. First though, we were going to head to the beach. Afterall, I've never been to the Atlantic Ocean before. I can now say however, that I've been coast to coast on I-10. We had breakfast at the hotel, and DW's friend met us for a morning at the beach. We all piled into our SUV, and headed to Jacksonville beach. It was a really pretty morning. We got some great shots. I was really surprise, because the day before had been so rainy.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01045.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01035.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01051.jpg

All good things must come to an end :guilty: So we packed up, and headed to lunch before driving DW's friends back to the hotel so they could pick up their car. They took us on a quick tour of Jacksonville before we left and headed home. Jacksonville is a pretty town.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01059.jpg

I didn't really feel like driving today, so DW drove all the way back home from Jacksonville, I can't remember how long of a drive it was. I managed to get in several naps :thumbsup2 The only stops we made were to fill up the gas tank, and 2 quick potty breaks. We were sooooooo looking forward to getting home. We just had one last stop to make. We had to go pick up our baby.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00447-1.jpg
She was staying with DW's parents. Roxie went absolutely nuts when we walked into the house. She really missed us. From the inlaws, it was another 20 minutes home. Along the way, we stopped at Taco Bell to get a quick bite to eat (which they messed up on). Then a quick run to our apartment. SO GLAD TO BE HOME :cool1: :cool1:

We already talked about going back to WDW. Just don't know when it will be. Hope you all enjoyed my TR. Thanks for all the coments :)

[crossfamily]

Oh mr. Oakie it was great! Bummer about the space shuttle! I know how you guys were so looking forward to seeing it. I wouldn't have paid that price either!!!!! Cheap here too all but ::MickeyMo ! Once again glad we got to meet! :grouphug: KIT Your limey pal

[Va-bear]

Loved the whole trip Mr. Oakie!!! I'm so glad ya'll had a good time! I also hope you get to go back soon and write another great report for us! Wahhhhhhh...your great pics make memiss it more!! Thanks again!! :sunny:

Virginia

[stinkerbelle's mom]

Wow, that was a fantastic TR! You take the best pictures! Glad you & the Mrs had a great vacation! :cool1:

[rer1972]

Great TR MrOakie. Sounds like you both had a great time and really got the most out of the trip. I had to laugh at the picture of the ladies in the Kennedy Space Center parking lot. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I still remember standing outside MGM waiting for the tram with my uncle, aunt, and cousin. Then the skies opened up. I have never been that soaked in my life. So I can understand the makeshift ponchos.
Have to say great pictures from the whole trip. I only hope I can get pictures that good on my future trip.

Thanks for sharing with everyone; really enjoyed it.

[uhtimex]

We had a good night sleep at the hotel. But we were anxious to get home and sleep in our own beds again. First though, we were going to head to the beach. Afterall, I've never been to the Atlantic Ocean before. I can now say however, that I've been coast to coast on I-10. We had breakfast at the hotel, and DW's friend met us for a morning at the beach. We all piled into our SUV, and headed to Jacksonville beach. It was a really pretty morning. We got some great shots. I was really surprise, because the day before had been so rainy.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01045.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01035.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01051.jpg

All good things must come to an end :guilty: So we packed up, and headed to lunch before driving DW's friends back to the hotel so they could pick up their car. They took us on a quick tour of Jacksonville before we left and headed home. Jacksonville is a pretty town.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC01059.jpg

I didn't really feel like driving today, so DW drove all the way back home from Jacksonville, I can't remember how long of a drive it was. I managed to get in several naps :thumbsup2 The only stops we made were to fill up the gas tank, and 2 quick potty breaks. We were sooooooo looking forward to getting home. We just had one last stop to make. We had to go pick up our baby.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n178/MrOakie/DSC00447-1.jpg
She was staying with DW's parents. Roxie went absolutely nuts when we walked into the house. She really missed us. From the inlaws, it was another 20 minutes home. Along the way, we stopped at Taco Bell to get a quick bite to eat (which they messed up on). Then a quick run to our apartment. SO GLAD TO BE HOME :cool1: :cool1:

We already talked about going back to WDW. Just don't know when it will be. Hope you all enjoyed my TR. Thanks for all the coments :)

OUTSTANDING :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

What a great TR, great written details and super Pics. You two looked like you were having the time of your life. Good luck on your next trip. :wizard:

[dwheatl]

I loved your pictures, especially the sea urchin. DH and I stayed at the Jax Econolodge many years ago. It was during a hurricane and flash flooding, and it was the pits. We were really poor then, so stuck with it. I think you made the right choice.
When are you coming back to DL?

[hockeymomoftwo]

loved the trip report especially the pics. Thanks to you i had to go and buy another memory card. I only hope my pics turn out as well.

[kaw1218]

Great report!! Love the writing...absolutely adore the pictures!!!!

[Philadisney]

i just found your TR and really enjoyed it, i read it straight through! great pictures, thank you for sharing! it looks like you and your wife had a lovely time. :goodvibes