Boardwalk Villas, Star Wars Weekend, Water Parks & more *PICS* June 21-27

[tksbaskets]

Background:
I have written one trip report (2004) in my DIS career in the stone age before I had a digital camera. I love trip reports, living vicariously through others, so I’m going to try and do my best with PICS (hopefully Fairy_Tale_Bride has been able to impart enough knowledge to me)

My cast of characters:
Me, TKsBaskets, -44 -the keeper of the schedule, maker of ressies, and faithful reader and poster on many DIS boards. I must admit to Obsessive Compulsive Disney Planning Disease and would be happy to share my MS-Word table that includes EMH park for the morning and evening, target park, our ADRs, and any DIS information I may deem necessary.

My guys:
DH pirate: —could be in the AARP but he throws all correspondence from them away quickly, great guy who tollerates/shares my love of Disney
DS ‘Grumpy’—16 and a pretty good-hearted teen, has his ‘moments’ usually associated with trying to awaken him from slumber. (on the right)
DS ‘Donald’ — 16 who is a nice fella but like his pal Donald, gives us the ‘tude’ to remind us what we must have been like for our parents at that age. (on the left)

Here are my guys waiting for the ME bus: (if moons align and the link works)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME5-1.jpg

One thing to know is that DH is a teacher and as such our trips are all on a school break. We have always traveled to WDW or cruised between Christmas and New Years. In fact, our sons had NEVER seen WDW not decorated for Christmas. :santa:

Planning for this trip began in December after my—er I mean our– dream of becoming DVC members came true. :cloud9: We had a WDW vacation (POR) and cruise (Western, NYE) already booked and we though it would be fun to go to our DVC resort in June between Grumpy’s football camps. (What were we thinking!!! Orlando in June??? More on that later...)

Here is our agenda (you can decide if you want to sub with us) I’ll try and update this post with what page each day falls on. We were on the Disney Dining this trip too so I'll comment on that also as we go along.

Thursday 6/21—Boardwalk Villas and DTD
Friday 6/22—Star Wars Weekend at MGM (Starts with post #34, page 3)
Saturday 6/23—More SWW and Typhoon Lagoon (Post #52, page 4)
Sunday 6/24—EPCOT & More DVC (post #61, page 5)
Monday 6/25—Blizzard Beach (post #77, page 6)
Tuesday 6/26—Magic Kingdom (post #91, page 7)
Wednesday 6/27—Home...

Let’t see if the picture magically appears…..

[tksbaskets]

Still here :thumbsup2

If DH has any 'fault' it is that he is a stickler about being EARLY everywhere. The morning drive to the airport was no different. Up at 0500 and on the road by 6 for our 8:55 non-stop (oh the stories I could tell about the times we 'saved' money with a stop :rolleyes1 ) flight on Spirit to MCO. We parked our car at our favorite 'Park-'n-Rob' and were quickly checked in. Did you know Spirit now charges if you want to check a bag? :sad2: $10 round-trip if you tell them before you arrive at the airport, double if you don't.

Pretty smooth check-in with our very light bags (I planned on doing some shopping for Star Wars Weekend :chewy: )

This was the second time we used Disney's Magical Express :thumbsup2. This time I wasn't nervous at all about walking off the plane and heading right to the ME counter. It is delightful not to be waiting at the baggage carrier for luggage and then carting it all over MCO!

We were soon in the right line and on our way to WDW! Here is another attempt at picture posting with a better resolution than above...size matters.

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-01.jpg

We love taking the Disney bus to the resort. The whole experience of watching the video, riding with fellow Disney vacationers, and most important for us - not having to know the directions to and from WDW. Kind of like your kids before they are drivers - they have no idea how to get from point A to B. This is DH and me - "What are the directions to WDW from MCO?" you ask. "Take the ME bus to...."

Soon we were greeted by this wonderful site!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME2-1.jpg

By 12:30 pm we were rounding to corner to our 'Home' at Boardwalk Villas (BWV). Just looking at the entrance I knew we had chosen the right resort.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME3-1.jpg
Not the rare appearance of me in a photo!

The theming for BWV is great! Like you are walking a sea-side resort. Here is what greated us in the lobby with a 'Welcome Home' from the cast member checking us in:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME4-1.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME4-2.jpg

DSs took a seat in the lobby while DH and I stepped up to the desk to check in. Our room was ready! Thank goodness because my tired troops didn't want to shlep their carry on bags all over the resort.:rolleyes: I had arranged a grocery delivery with Marge from wegoshop. I requested a 'paid-out' when we registered and Marge dropped our grocery order off with the bell desk and they delivered it when we got back to our room. I can highly recommend Marge :thumbsup2

We were on the Disney Dining Plan (DDP) as well and had enjoyed it's flexibility (pre-paid) in December.

Note: no place for a Quick Service (QS) lunch at BWV :confused3 had to walk over to the Beach Club pool for lunch....

Past the gift shop:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME4-3.jpg

Up the elevator to the third floor (we walked the stairs more often than not after we got our bearings) and then to the much famed "LONG HALLWAY". This is actually the second long hallway on our trek to room 3119. I counted it as part of my weigh watcher's exercise ;)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME4-4.jpg

Next up:
The tour of our family's one-bedroom villa!

[DisneyJenn18]

Great pics so far! Looking forward to hearing more! popcorn::

[Avivasmom]

Great start. What a great looking family you have. Love the photos...We (meaning me, SIL 1st trip and my DD her 11th trip) will be staying at BWV. So especially love the photos.

Cannot wait to read more.

[tksbaskets]

Your personal tour of our Villa. This room is a regular view. We thought it SPECTACULAR.
The living room with it's comfortable queen sized pull out couch:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-04.jpg

'Donald' getting their TV uncovered
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-05.jpg

Our cute little kitchen - note: used ONLY for breakfast. My idea of vacation is NOT cooking :banana:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-06.jpg

HEAVEN: Our own bedroom. DH proclaimed one of his favorite perks of DVC is the ability to control his own clicker. I think our TV was on ESPN the entire trip! The bed was SUPER comfy and being used to a queen sized at home, enormous :cool1:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-07.jpg
The cute but uncomfortable chair to the right of our TV cabinet.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-08.jpg

As the only female in a household of testosterone, I can't tell you how nice is was to be able to get ready for the day in my own digs! The bathroom was split, with the GIANT tub and vanity separate from the toilet and HUGE shower. Here is MOM's room which is the huge room between the bedroom and the gigunga walk-in closet. The bifold doors you see on the far right is the handy stacking washer and dryer:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-09.jpg

Talk about a room with a view:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-13.jpg

We overlooked the back entrance with a great view of the bus stop. The balcony spanned the LR and BR with French doors off of both
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-14.jpg

The other part of the Bath:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-10.jpg
Isn't this shower great?
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-11.jpg

We had the right amount of soaps and shampoo and found the room to be charming and in great shape. I must admit we are not one to search every nook and cranny, but we weren't lacking for anything we needed.

No luggage as yet, but it was time to feed my hungry troops. As mentioned before, no QS at BWV at all. Off we trecked to BCV for a QS meal.

Up next...How hot is 'hot as stink'??? Our afternoon at the "IT" pool, dinner at Spoodles, and the madness that is DTD at night.

Hope you are enjoying my first attempt at a trippie with pics.
TK

[Avivasmom]

Great room shots...and now I know what to expect in 24 days!!!

[MousekaMaddi]

very much enjoying.........now lets go...........more please;)

[Jillpie]

Fantastic trippie!!! Great start. And speaking as a Mom of three teenage boys, boy do I know where you are coming from (ages 19, 15 and 14). Really looking forward to reading more.:)

[wilma-bride]

Oh my, I so need to get back to my beloved BWV now - I am sooooo homesick for it :love: Keep your fingers crossed that we manage to got BWV at the 7 month mark for our April trip.

Anyway, back on topic - loving your report so far - great pictures and I totally understand the need for your own 'getting ready' space - as a Mum to 2 teenagers (albeit that they are girls), I feel your pain. Can't wait for more :thumbsup2

[OhMari]

Wow, you have nice pictures of the BWI. We stayed in room 3113. I like how you took a picture of the hallway, it sure was a long walk. Did you notice, the children's foot prints in the carpeting. Plus, my dh kept thinking it was thundering out when Fantasmic was playing.

[tksbaskets]

Great pics so far! Looking forward to hearing more! popcorn::
Glad that you are following along. I took 300+ pictures this trips so I should have lots of good ones to share.:goodvibes

Great pics so far! Looking forward to hearing more! popcorn::
You will LOVE it. I’ll have more pics of outside BWV later in the trippie! :woohoo:

very much enjoying.........now lets go...........more please;)
I’m so glad you are enjoying my trippie. It is a bit addictive and at 1 am I had to sleep. Seriously (yes, I’m a Grey’s Anatomy fan too) I’ll post more this afternoon! :thumbsup2

Fantastic trippie!!! Great start. And speaking as a Mom of three teenage boys, boy do I know where you are coming from (ages 19, 15 and 14). Really looking forward to reading more.:)
Ah, a mom who has made it past 16! :worship: I have hope. Thanks for coming along with us on our trippie! You will be able to relate. Any advise is greatly appreciated.

Oh my, I so need to get back to my beloved BWV now - I am sooooo homesick for it :love: Keep your fingers crossed that we manage to got BWV at the 7 month mark for our April trip.

Anyway, back on topic - loving your report so far - great pictures and I totally understand the need for your own 'getting ready' space - as a Mum to 2 teenagers (albeit that they are girls), I feel your pain. Can't wait for more :thumbsup2
My fingers are crossed! When is your 4 month window? My Dsister and I are going in April while ‘Donald’ will be in the WDW parade with his marching band. We may try a different resort. Perhaps we’ll be swapping ressies? :cutie:

Thanks to CourtneyandRyan for teaching me how to quote multiple people in one post :thumbsup2

Well off to a horseback riding lesson...will post more of the trippie after lunch. Thanks for all the kind feedback :goodvibes

[PrincessV]

Great start!:thumbsup2

I must admit, your title drew me in. I just joined DVC and when I tried to book our upcoming Dec. trip in a studio ANYWHERE, the pixie dust flew and I was surprised with a BWV 1 bdr. standard view availability! I was advised to ask for exactly the view you had - many thanks for the pics!

Looking forward to your adventures... popcorn::

[jekjones1558]

You should get some great views of Illuminations from your balcony!

[wilma-bride]

My fingers are crossed! When is your 4 month window? My Dsister and I are going in April while ‘Donald’ will be in the WDW parade with his marching band. We may try a different resort. Perhaps we’ll be swapping ressies? :cutie:


We cannot book any other resort until September this year. We currently have ressies for a 2-bed at SSR from 10-24 April, which we are hoping to swap out at the 7 month window for a week at AKV and a week at BWV. We may be there at the same time - that's cool that 'Donald' is going to be in a parade at WDW :thumbsup2

[VanniGirl]

Great start - we are staying at the BWV for the first time this August - thanks for all the pics!

[momof2boyz12]

Great Start. We are staying at Old Key West in 14 days. I cannot wait. Where is Dexter, MI? We are on the western side of Michigan. Can't wait to hear/see more. You have great pics.

[Marc A.]

Great pics and great start??? I'm in for the long haul.
could you email me your word doc???? vipermansa@aol.com
Thanks

[schoen]

great report so far. I am from Dexter. I grew up there and went to high school. I noticed your son's shirt right away! We are also DVC members! I can't wait to hear more from you!

[alldiz]

Great report.....I need more....
Kerri

[DJmommy]

Subscribing with great anticipation the rest of your report and pics. Great so far. Looking to pick up some good tips for our stay later in the summer.

So glad your family had a wonderful first trip home. I am currently in the Obsessive-Compulsive Disney Planning stage you described yourself. And I have my fair share of spreadsheets too. My DH insists that I spend more time planning the trip than the time we are actually there. I don't care...to me, the planning is half the fun.

Can't wait for more.

[Disneyolic]

Love your report so far and I especially love your pictures. You have a very handsome bunch! Looking forward to more...

[skoi]

Thank you so much for this report. We're staying at BWV for the first time in Sept after having stayed at BCV, VWL, and OKW, and with all the negative things I've been reading lately- this is great. I was getting worried we should've just stuck with BCV.

[The Disney 6]

Great start!! I love the pictures:love:
We are making our first trip "home" in Sep. and staying at BWV your pictures have me sooooooo excited:cool1:
I can't wait to read more.
Meg

[Boston5602]

Thanks , Loving your Report so far.........

[tksbaskets]

Wow, you have nice pictures of the BWI. We stayed in room 3113. I like how you took a picture of the hallway, it sure was a long walk. Did you notice, the children's foot prints in the carpeting. Plus, my dh kept thinking it was thundering out when Fantasmic was playing.
I didn’t notice the carpet. I have to laugh about the Fantasmic thundering….More in my next post about that :rotfl:

Great start!:thumbsup2

I must admit, your title drew me in. I just joined DVC and when I tried to book our upcoming Dec. trip in a studio ANYWHERE, the pixie dust flew and I was surprised with a BWV 1 bdr. standard view availability! I was advised to ask for exactly the view you had - many thanks for the pics!

Looking forward to your adventures... popcorn::
I’m sure you will love it! :thumbsup2

You should get some great views of Illuminations from your balcony!
As a matter of fact, here is the view from our balcony. Every night at 9 pm. What a treat :yay: (obviously I need to fuss some more with taking firework pics but you get the idea)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-1-1.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/M-1.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-2.jpg

We cannot book any other resort until September this year. We currently have ressies for a 2-bed at SSR from 10-24 April, which we are hoping to swap out at the 7 month window for a week at AKV and a week at BWV. We may be there at the same time - that's cool that 'Donald' is going to be in a parade at WDW :thumbsup2
He is super excited. For some reason the band is going to go the week AFTER spring break so my DH can’t get off of work. Luckily my Dsis is going to keep me company as we take several photos of the band….

Great start - we are staying at the BWV for the first time this August - thanks for all the pics!
I’m glad you are enjoying them. :) More to come in the next post!

Great Start. We are staying at Old Key West in 14 days. I cannot wait. Where is Dexter, MI? We are on the western side of Michigan. Can't wait to hear/see more. You have great pics.
We are about 10 minutes west of Ann Arbor right off of I-94. I’m glad you are enjoying the pictures. Have you stayed at OKW before? It looks nice

Great pics and great start??? I'm in for the long haul.
could you email me your word doc???? Thanks

It is on it’s way, let me know how you like it….I found it invaluable especially when arriving at the check-in station for ADRs

great report so far. I am from Dexter. I grew up there and went to high school. I noticed your son's shirt right away! We are also DVC members! I can't wait to hear more from you!
No kidding! Did you have my DH for gym? He now teaches 3rd and 4th grade at Wylie Middle School but used to teach K-4.

Great report.....I need more....
Kerri
On it’s way!

Subscribing with great anticipation the rest of your report and pics. Great so far. Looking to pick up some good tips for our stay later in the summer.

So glad your family had a wonderful first trip home. I am currently in the Obsessive-Compulsive Disney Planning stage you described yourself. And I have my fair share of spreadsheets too. My DH insists that I spend more time planning the trip than the time we are actually there. I don't care...to me, the planning is half the fun.

Can't wait for more.
Our DHs act like this is a bad thing?? Planning is half the fun as is having ressies for lunch or dinner while others are being turned away at the door. Plan away my OCDP friend!

Love your report so far and I especially love your pictures. You have a very handsome bunch! Looking forward to more...
You are so sweet. I’m having fun with the report and hope you all find it useful for future trips. :goodvibes

Thank you so much for this report. We're staying at BWV for the first time in Sept after having stayed at BCV, VWL, and OKW, and with all the negative things I've been reading lately- this is great. I was getting worried we should've just stuck with BCV.
Not to worry! It was great. I will add into my trippie the few things we would do differently on our next trip but we LOVED BWV. Walking to MGM ROCKED

Great start!! I love the pictures:love:
We are making our first trip "home" in Sep. and staying at BWV your pictures have me sooooooo excited:cool1:
I can't wait to read more.
Meg
I bet you are excited! I have plenty more pictures of outside on the Boardwalk for a future post. I love to hear about other DIS trips too!

Thanks , Loving your Report so far.........
Thanks….more to come.

[jakenjess]

Great start to your report! I love the BWV. Looking forward to more!

[V10Torque]

Another Dexterite here! 17 years but our kids were grown when we moved here.

New to the board because I've finally talked DW into going. I've been wanting to return since before Epcot opened. We have an offer in on an OKW resale but it probably won't be closed in time to use the points in October so we'll just have to return around Feb when the weather is so miserably cold here.

Thanks for the great report!

[tksbaskets]

How hot is 'hot as stink'???
This trip in June sounded like a great idea as I sat at my computer in December in Michigan. The reality was a sauna-like experience with temps in the low to mid 90's and the humidity poppin right out the top of the gage.

After a tour of our home, we sweated our way over to the Beach Club pool for our QS lunch. Boy was I dreaming of my shorts in the yet-to-arrive ME luggage.

We had shelled out big bucks for the DDP. Here was our lunch:
DSs both got burger baskets, DH and I had a tasty (although a bit oily) chicken and roasted pepper flatbread (grilled chicken and veggies/salad on a fluffy pita). Sodas all around and ice cream treats for dessert. Everywhere will let you return for your desert and in the extreme heat we were very thankful for this. I recommend the Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich :thumbsup2

Here is the view from across the pond of BWV:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/M2-3.jpg

My tolerant teens (hungry and sweating like pigs they pose for their DM)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/M2-1.jpg

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/M2-2.jpg


Our afternoon at the "IT" pool

We quickly made our way back to BWV to change into our suits and hit the Luna Park Pool, stopping off at the Boardwalk Bakery to purchase our refillable drink mugs.
Note: We are used to the POR food court where we could swing by and refill our mugs at the drink station. In the past, there were two size mugs which both had resort-specific logos. Now, there is one size (the smaller) with a generic Mickey design. No beverage station at BWV, we had to work to get our $51 worth of refills (never fear, we made it worth our while) :umbrella:

Our luggage had arrived by 3:00 and I had our grocery order delivered from the bell desk at the same time. Note to self: Next time don't buy a case of water intending to drink like a good Weight Watcher and take them to the park. TOO hot to carry more than the essentials!

Armed with 30 SPF and my trusty Canon off we went. We had no problem finding chairs although we were in the back row. There aren't any lockers at the pool, so I snapped a few pictures and then took the camera back to the room.

Does anyone remember the TV movie based on Steven King's "IT"?? Here he is!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-19.jpg

I will never again view clowns in the same way after that movie. The LPP will forever be the "IT" pool for our family. The DSs both took a few spins down the slide. DH too. I, ahem, had to man the camera! ;)

The kiddie pool area without any kiddies. Probably way too hot for their young bodies:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-16.jpg

Leaping Horse Libations bar. It seemed to keep bankers hours. Open in the afternoon, but by six closed up tight. Go figure....I'm usually still thirsty after 6.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-18.jpg
The scene of many a drink refill from my family. I'm sure it is for health reasons, but when we asked for refills the bartender would fill up a small (like the size you might get when you ask for a free glass of water) paper cup with soda and hand it to you. It wouldn't even fill our mug. Of course we would politely ask for another. (dreaming of a refill station where I could actually fill my cup) They were making all manner of libations and had some exotic frozen drinks that looked refreshing and expensive. DS knew better than to charge anything on the KTTW card and were very satisfied with soda. :rolleyes:

Drink Mug info: If you get the mugs, Boardwalk Bakery gives you a large soda cup with a straw and a lid and they are open until 11pm. Many tasty items that are snack credits there too.
Now this pool statue was adorable:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-17.jpg
Very nice landscaping around the pool too. DH and I felt we 'got our moneys worth' with BWV DVC!!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-15.jpg

Dinner at Spoodles
We bobbed until 5pm when it was time to take a quick shower and head to Spoodles for our 5:30 ressie.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/spoodles-1.jpg

We arrived and the place was just getting started with dinner. We checked in and waited a bit to be seated. Nice Tuscan feel to the restaurant.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-20.jpg
Like we believe any of these men!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-21.jpg
What does my DDP family recommend?:
Appetizer - Grumpy had the crispy fried calamari and loved it, DH had the Hummus and it was good, Donald had the grilled Lamb Kabobs which are highly recommended, and I won with the delicious Garlic Shrimp - drool.
Main course: between the four of us we had Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Linguine the Oak-fired Steak Kababs, Pan-roasted Fillet of Red Snapper, and wood-grilled Pork Chop. We all though our meals were wonderful and would order any of these again.

By this time we were stuffed so we took our desserts to go. Another HUGE plus for the DVC. We could take our left-overs and dessert back to our full-sized fridge :banana: :banana: Oh, we recommend the Chocolate-Apricot-Pistacio Cake and the yummy Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee :thumbsup2

To be continued....

[tksbaskets]

The madness that is DTD at Night:scared1:
Feeling smug and good about walking up the stairs to our room, we ventured to the bus depot to await the bus for Downtown Disney. We like the Disney transportation system and generally find the wait times to be well withing acceptable parameters. I think we waited 10 minutes or so to get the bus. BWV does NOT have buses to EPCOT or MGM. You walk or take the Friendship boat. Not a problem, we are doing those parks on another day!

Now the bus did make a fair amount of stops before we reached DTD. We hadn't been here since our first trip to Disney and it quickly came back to us why. First off, our idea of a great evening is watching Illuminations from our balcony or in the park. We are not ones to drink (besides the occasional brewski) and have never had a desire to see Pleasure Island. Our goal was to go to "Once Upon a Toy" so I could get my coveted Mr. Potato Head Disney parts. Why??? Because they are there :hippie:

When we arrived, it was about 7:30 pm and still light out. A fair amount of people but very manageable to get around. We strolled into a few shops and then zeroed in on OAAT. What a fun place. I was trying to decide between a box of parts and the Limited Edition Super Huge Replica of Mr. Potato head himself. A cast member was quick to assist and said either way, they would help me get the most into whichever container I choose. Guess which one I choose?? She sat on the floor, dumped out what I had and started stuffing. What fun!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-22.jpg

Now my DSis saw this picture and said "why would you want Potato Head parts" IS she nuts!! Look how well my helpful Cast Member did:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ME-23.jpg

(I didn't unpack him till we arrived at home.) DS at this point wanted to build their own Light Sabers. Now a 44 yo woman on her knees stuffing potato parts isn't one to say 'no' to such a request. I must say, they were not the only ones over 10 building their own LS. NO - It wasn't me! $29 later (each) I had some pretty excited boys with all our treasures being sent back to the room by the next day. This is a GREAT service for those staying on property.

Now for the nightmare. Darkness had descended upon DTD. A mass of humanity strolled in the darkness. Shoulder-to-shoulder we walked to the bus depot to get back 'home'. The first bus came and went stuffed full of people like a 60's VW Bug :hippie: 15 minutes later, another crowded bus arrived and my family decided we'd better hop aboard. The driver let us board and we barely made it behind the yellow line. Definitely SRO! A non DIS woman kept complaining that Grumpy was too close to her feet (mind you Grumpy and the rest of my family were braced from one side to the other grasping the overhead bars for dear life while our bus driver took us on his own version of Mr. Toads Wild Ride). When what to our amazement happened??? He stopped to take on more passengers! :sad2: We squeezed 6 more people in and then headed for Disney's Swan - no one off, but more people tried to get on :confused: and they did. Our seat buddy was really not happy then and kept voicing her displeasure to all around her. The ride took forever and by the time we reached BWV, there were people standing right by the front door steps. DH and I couldn't believe these people were going TO DTD at 10 pm.

This was the worst bus experience we have ever had and luckily didn't have again this trip. My arms were sore for two days from extending them over my head hanging on for dear life for almost a half hour. No more DTD for us unless it is in the middle of the day!

Off to dreamland for tomorrow is our first day at MGM for Star Wars Weekend! :chewy: :ewok: :chewy:

[Disneyolic]

I thought the same thing about the clown "IT" pool! DTD is a nice place and we would definitely do it in the afternoon or early evening. We enjoyed dinner at Raglan Rd there but quickly made an exit after that. I hate the busses there...

Looking forward to more!

[BWVNUT]

Great TR so far! Love all your pics - makes me homesick!!! :sick:

Looking forward to more!!

:goodvibes

[tksbaskets]

Another Dexterite here! 17 years but our kids were grown when we moved here.

New to the board because I've finally talked DW into going. I've been wanting to return since before Epcot opened. We have an offer in on an OKW resale but it probably won't be closed in time to use the points in October so we'll just have to return around Feb when the weather is so miserably cold here.

Thanks for the great report!
What a small world! Yes, I dream of going to WDW in February or March….any time but June-July-Aug :mickeybar

Great start to your report! I love the BWV. Looking forward to more!
Glad you are following along with me.:thumbsup2

I thought the same thing about the clown "IT" pool! DTD is a nice place and we would definitely do it in the afternoon or early evening. We enjoyed dinner at Raglan Rd there but quickly made an exit after that. I hate the busses there...

Looking forward to more!
I’m glad it wasn’t just me about ‘IT’. Note to self, DTD in the afternoon for sure ::MickeyMo

[Jillpie]

Ok, not only do we have wonderful teenage boys in common, but Dixie Landings is our first "home" away from home too! LOVE that place and totally miss that food court too. Wouldn't trade our BCV's for a minute, but still. In fact (oh, and this is another great fact in common!), we're going in April too! and guess where we're staying for 3 fantastic nights? Yes, Dixie Landings (see siggie, can't call it that other name). Then we're staying at BCV's for a week. Where are you staying and when are you going? My middle son is also in the high school band and they'll be going some time together next year, that should be an interesting trip. He plays trombone, what does your son play?
I couldn't agree more about the lack of drink stations at the BWV. What IS up with that? Hey, if you ever stay at the BC, problem solved on that one. They have a great station right there off the lobby and yes, you can do your own mug, heaven. Can't wait to read more!!!

[tksbaskets]

Rise and shine my Jedi Knights time for SWW!:yoda: Weather report - beyond hot and stickey

This was the morning my DH earned the moniker of 'Sarge'~ Up at 5:45 am ready to make breakfast in our cute little kitchen. DH had put his coffee together and was happily sipping before any of the rest of us were awake. :coffee:

Now I must interject that our family has always seen the benefits from taking advantage of EMH in the morning. I know many are 'on vacation' and like to sleep in. We say hooray for you :goodvibes that leaves the park less crowded for us :cool1: :cool1: Our goal was to get to the park by 7:00 knowing that we wanted to get in line for a fast pass for an Anthony Daniels autograph. (C-3PO for those of you not in-the-know) Having OCDPD I had researched where the fast pass distribution was for autographs (By Indiana Jones) and knew that you could also get a regular FP on top of the autograph one.

Our day did not begin smoothly. We were out the door and down the back steps by the Community Hall (more on this GREAT space later) to the walkway to MGM. DH looks at the camcorder and says "I only have 1/2 a tape left". I make him go back up to the room for a fresh tape. Now it's a balmy 86 degrees at 0645 and the humidity is so bad my camera was fogged up already. The brisk walk back up three flights of stairs didn't put my DH (feel free to use anything you want for the D) in a good mood. We waited by the tennis courts - can you believe no one way playing- saw some joggers slogging by - and waited for DH's return :rolleyes1 We found the bathrooms by the Community Hall to be in tip top condition....

At last, here comes my beloved. OH NO, he doesn't have his mousketeer face on...:eek: He looks more like :darth: It seems the freshly opened tape will not go into the machine. You are to gently push the tape down and then the guts retract and all is well....no guts retracting. All we say on the screen was a tiny water droplet. What's this?? It is too hot and humid for the innards of our camcorder to work. Off we troop to MGM with a non-working DVR. I was so looking forward to taping the SW parade. Sigh.

The nice 10-15 minute walk to MGM was one of the best perks about BWV. We love that park. The walkway was along the water and you never knew what you might find along the way.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ducks-1.jpg
We were in line for getting an Anthony Daniels fastpass at 0700. Already the line snaked around the ticket booth.

Look what the humidity did to my AM pictures. You can't pay money for a filter like this!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7657.jpg

USPS is in on the action. They were set up to stamp a special cancellation on anything sent from their little truck. R2D2 was ready for mailing. Note: we are bad family members and didn't send a single postcard the entire trip....:rolleyes:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7658.jpg

We were breaking with our usual routine this trip. No mad rush for the RRC as we were in line for SWW. Now there were three types of people at MGM this weekend. Star Wars Fans, UBER Star Wars Fans - more on them, and people who looked around saying "Is there some star something going on this weekend?" My family is in the first category. DH and I grew up loving the original 4-5-6. Han Solo was my first movie screen crush. DB and Dsis and I saw SW 20 times when it came out. I think most of us in this category could admit to having a few pieces of SW memorabilia stored away from our youth. DSs grew up with 1-2-3. The entire family could quote most of the movies and are able to clean up on SW trivia. We met a few of the middle category. One standing in line with us for 2 1/2 hours. These fans came out dressed in full SW costumes. It's a 90 degrees at 0730 and 100% humidity and the woman behind us is dressed like a Sith Lord complete with black boots, hooded cape - that she kept up, and long black boots. These are the people we told the boys "Don't make eye contact". We saw several darling little Jedi - don't get me wrong I love a costume party too....to each their own.

By 0730, a cast member escorted our long line through the gate, down the main drag, and around to the left (like you were on your way to Indiana Jones) This is what the street looks like with no one here.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7661.jpg
See the humongous line? They must have been up really early!

The park opened for EMH at 0800 but the FP machine for autographs opened at 0900 :confused3 We got to be pretty friendly with our new line friends. There was a man and women in front of us who were fans like we were. Grew up with Star Wars and were excited to be part of the 'event'. Many people in line had full sized posters from their youth to be signed. We were going to be happy with the picture provided by Disney. As we stood in line, DSs took our tickets and went to the RRC to obtain a fastpass. We all had our cell phones and using text messaging worked great to keep in touch the entire trip. After getting the passes, Donald wanted to go to Jabba's Hut (the place to buy limited edition SW merchandise that was down by the Magic of Animation. It was about 0830 and the line was super long. The boys joined us in line and were happy to report our FP were for 1010. The line began moving and by about 0920 we had our FP for a 4:10 signing. There were little 10x10 tents set up around the little lake outside of Hollywood and Vine. Very nice setting.

Off we ran for Jabba's Hut. Not wanting the limited edition merchandise to be gone CHa-Ching! We bagged pins for DSs and our collection (3 limited edition pins were released each of the four weekend), a poster for mom in a sturdy tube, shirts x 3, and a Minnie Mouse Big Fig (which I had shipped to my home). Everything but the pins we had sent to our resort. No toting for us :cloud9:
Here is the design that was on our shirts and the poster
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7766.jpg

The Big Figs - they light up too. See my cute Minnie?
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7668.jpg

Oh no, what has happened to Han???
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7670.jpg

By now it was 1000 and time to jog to the RRC (ok, walk briskly) to use our FP. It is my favorite ride in all of WDW. We know the pre-show by heart and when we enter the back alley before getting in the limo, all is right with the world :cool1:

Some of the special flags around the park. The bad guys were down by the animation area:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7663.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7664.jpg

Wanting to recruit my fine sons
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7671.jpg

The good guys including Jedi Mickey were around Star Traders/Indiana Jones area
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7732.jpg

Loved the RRC :ewok:
Next up:
Star Wars Parade of Characters and the best parade viewing spot at MGM...stay tuned!

[tksbaskets]

Ok, not only do we have wonderful teenage boys in common, but Dixie Landings is our first "home" away from home too! LOVE that place and totally miss that food court too. Wouldn't trade our BCV's for a minute, but still. In fact (oh, and this is another great fact in common!), we're going in April too! and guess where we're staying for 3 fantastic nights? Yes, Dixie Landings (see siggie, can't call it that other name). Then we're staying at BCV's for a week. Where are you staying and when are you going? My middle son is also in the high school band and they'll be going some time together next year, that should be an interesting trip. He plays trombone, what does your son play?
I couldn't agree more about the lack of drink stations at the BWV. What IS up with that? Hey, if you ever stay at the BC, problem solved on that one. They have a great station right there off the lobby and yes, you can do your own mug, heaven. Can't wait to read more!!!
It will forever be Dixie Landings to us too. LOVE that place :love:

My sister and I will be visiting WDW April 8-16. Right now we are signed up for a Studio at BWV. I am going to try and switch over to VWL I do believe. Any drink station there? I'd love to try BCV but I hear it's tough to get in there.

My son plays French Horn in the concert band and a Melaphone in the marching band (looks like a trumpet with a large bell). He is very excited about the trip and so am I.

It's noon and I'm trying to wake one of my boys up now....aren't teens fun?! :rotfl:

[Disneyolic]

Rise and shine my Jedi Knights time for SWW!:yoda: Weather report - beyond hot and stickey Ah yes, I remember the hot and sticky well...


Look what the humidity did to my AM pictures. You can't pay money for a filter like this!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7657.jpg Yup...I had a couple pics like that but a quick wipe of the lens took care of it for me.

Note: we are bad family members and didn't send a single postcard the entire trip....:rolleyes:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7658.jpgWe never ever have sent post cards in all our travels. Not like we are jet setters or anything but I just can't be bothered. :confused3

By 0730, a cast member escorted our long line through the gate, down the main drag, and around to the left (like you were on your way to Indiana Jones) This is what the street looks like with no one here.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7661.jpg
See the humongous line? They must have been up really early! Oh my goodness! What a great shot. I will never ever brave something like that.

Next up:
Star Wars Parade of Characters and the best parade viewing spot at MGM...stay tuned!
Totally looking forward to it....:thumbsup2

[schoen]

I totally had your husband for gym! I thought that might be him! You didn't say whether or not he taught at dexter, but I thought that looked like him. Of course I haven't seen him since I was in fourth grade! He was always my favorite, he used to crack me up! I know I had him in all in elementary school. I remember hula hooping with him when I was in Kindergarten! ... I graduated in 1999. It really is a small world. I am loving your trip report, keep posting!

[tksbaskets]

Ah yes, I remember the hot and sticky well...
A fellow June visitor?

Yup...I had a couple pics like that but a quick wipe of the lens took care of it for me.
I need to remember a lens cloth, my sweaty T wasn’t doing it!

We never ever have sent post cards in all our travels. Not like we are jet setters or anything but I just can't be bothered. :confused3
Worked out well for us this time ;)

Totally looking forward to it....:thumbsup2
Coming next!

I totally had your husband for gym! I thought that might be him! You didn't say whether or not he taught at dexter, but I thought that looked like him. Of course I haven't seen him since I was in fourth grade! He was always my favorite, he used to crack me up! I know I had him in all in elementary school. I remember hula hooping with him when I was in Kindergarten! ... I graduated in 1999. It really is a small world. I am loving your trip report, keep posting!
I’m glad he was one of your favs. He is a great guy :cutie:

[tksbaskets]

The best place to view the MGM parade!
During one of my many sessions on the DIS boards, I gathered the following information for where to sit for the SW parade. The regular parade goes through here too. Just don't sit there if my family is going to MGM that day. We consider them 'our' spot! To watch the 11:15 am SW parade (or any) is in front of the Sound Dangerous building. There are some low curvey pink cement walls (if you look on the MGM map, you can see them). You will be across from a fence that has greenery behind it (so no people in your pictures) and will have a comfy place to sit!

Well, we were perched on the wall at 10:15 in the beating sun. :umbrella: anxiously awaiting the parade. PERFECT seats! Went to get some bottled water because we felt like we were trapped in the desert. One good thing, the cam corder was equilibrated to the heat/humidity and accepted the tape - YEAH, DH could view the parade through a tiny screen :goofy:

By 11:15 we were quite good friends with the other family who sat on the wall with us. The mom and I were saying if anyone tried to stand in front of us we could take them ::cop: Just kidding (kind of). Here comes the parade!!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7672.jpg

Can you tell where we are sitting now? We looked out over Echo lake. Is that the big guy himself? Here is Jedi Mickey :woohoo:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7676.jpg

Disney picked kids out of the crowd for the Jedi Training Academy and they were next. TOO cute.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7678.jpg

Now being a big SW fan, the next group was truly impressive don't you think?
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7681.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7685.jpg

Disney knows how to do it! Not just one little Storm Trooper for them!

Now for some bad guys. I'd tell you all their names, but that might put me in the UBER SW fan group and we don't want that...;)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7688.jpg

Poor pregnant Princess Amidala in this heat.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7689.jpg

Here comes the good guys! Grumpy's favorite character. He does quite a good wookie impression (even if you don't want him too)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7692.jpg
You've got to love this reference to The Empire Strikes Back!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7696.jpg

Jedi!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7694.jpg

More later...DH and DSs and I are off to see the new Pixar film!

[Jillpie]

omg, you are so funny. I need more for tonight, oh, around 11:00 pm'sh...DH have a date, but I need my Dis when we get home. Would that be okay?:goodvibes

[tksbaskets]

omg, you are so funny. I need more for tonight, oh, around 11:00 pm'sh...DH have a date, but I need my Dis when we get home. Would that be okay?:goodvibes

No problem! I'm off to compose right now. Have a fun time with DH ;)


I highly recommend Ratatoulli - very cute :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[tksbaskets]

More SW parade now...
Here comes R2D2 - he moved around the crowd. Must have had a great radio controller.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7699.jpg

There were three celebs at MGM this weekend and they rode in style:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7702.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7719.jpg

drumroll.....the one we would meet at 4:40 pm
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7708.jpg

Now the bounty hunters moved in. DH and DSs especially liked the one with the white face. It had absolutely nothing to do with how toned she was in that body suit.....I was a bit jealous of her buns....
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7713.jpg

Duck, a mean looking Sith
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7714.jpg

Don't turn to the dark side :eek:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7721.jpg

We loved the parade and it was just the right length. We bid farewell to our parade friends and headed over to Sounds Dangerous for a chance to meet Jedi Mickey. He came in right after the parade. MGM actually closed SD for the weekend for the SWW festivities. Nice that the big guy got a spot inside ;)
He had a few visitors
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/mickey-1.jpg

Here is my gang with our favorite Jedi
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7727.jpg

Side note: I love Disney's Photopass! The photographers take great pictures and were available at several of the character meet & greets. The boys and DH knew that I wanted to get my moneys worth on this trap and happily stopped and smiled for all photopass photographers. The CD is on order but I snapped a few with my trusty Rebel too :cool1:

We had 12:30 ADR at the 50s Prime Time Cafe (table service) which we had visited in December and LOVED! We were checked in by our 'cousin' and waited in the parlor until we could be seated. Now I didn't realize that there is a bar area in this restaurant but we did notice the 'Jedi' in full costume with real looking (read expensive) light sabers had had a little extra libations from the Cantina. Did I mention that it was WAY too hot to dress in black with capes and hoods?
DDP Lunch Tip - even though the shakes at 50 PTC count as your beverage, it may lead to a bit of a tummy ache!
We all ordered a malt - I think my strawberry one was the best! It did count as our non-alcoholic beverage.
Appetizers:
Onion rings (delish)
Chicken noodle soup x 3 and it was a bit hit too

Main dishes:
Donald had the fish sandwich and it was 'ok'
My pot roast was excellent
Grumpy gave his pot pie two thumbs up
and DH enjoyed his fried chicken and made Grump and I eat his greens so our cousin would let him have dessert :rotfl:

Dessert:
Groaning we enjoyed apple cobbler, the angel food cake with strawberries, and two chocolate sundaes. Now the only problem with the DDP is we did eat more than we would have if it wasn't pre-paid.....keep that in the back of your mind as you increase your workout before your trip to WDW to compensate.

You can bet we rolled out of there. It was a wonderful meal.
Do we look like we could have eaten that much??....Hey - don't answer that!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7734.jpg

The boys went and waited in line for Star Tours while DH and I stood in line faithfully waiting for Chewbacca to arrive for a photo op. We stood in line for almost 45 minutes. Grumpy was asked to carry a timer in to Star Tours to see if the wait time posted was accurate. It's nice to know that the times are scientifically generated ;) We were standing behind an UBER SW fan dressed up all in black like a Empire Officer (all black, made his own costume, sweating like a swine). The boys made it back 15 minutes before Chewy arrived.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7768.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7767.jpg

By now it was about 2:50 and we thought it would be a great time to scoot over and see the Muppets 3-D movie. Off we went but stopped for a picture with the princess. DH says "which one"
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7729-1.jpg

Next up:
Trapped by the Stars and Motor Cars Parade....

[Donald is #1]

Great report!

I am also a Star Wars fan like you (& about the same age). I have been thinking about taking my nephew to SWW since he loves Star Wars now. It is great to read your report and find out what it is like.

[tksbaskets]

Great seats, no waiting!
We hustled around Echo Lake and the Disney Cast Members we letting people cross the street in one spot. When we approached the CM, they said we had to stand back and 'sit behind the line please'. Like good Mouseketeers, we sat where we were told. The lines went up and then we had front row center seats for the Stars & Motor Cars Parade. We never did make it over to the Muppets :confused3 but if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. I pulled out my camera because it was there. We had a few drops of rain that quickly evaporated.
Go see this movie, it's great!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7735.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7737.jpg

Athough we had seen this parade before, it is a lot of fun. :) Here are some highlights:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7740.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7744.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7750.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7752.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7754.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7757.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7759.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7760.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7764.jpg

After the parade we made our way over to get some snack credit ice cream yummm :mickeybar and then off to our autograph session with Anthony Daniels. We approached the tented area and no Anthony....it had been moved inside the ABC building by Sounds Dangerous because of the threatening weather. We got in quickly and said 'hello' to our morning line friends. (Yes, the Sith Lord was still in full costume behind us...she looked a bit smaller from sweating off 20 pounds...)

The set-up was nice. Donald went first and had a nice few minutes chatting with Mr. Daniels about his favorite SW movie. He was very gracious and signed a picture for us all.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/ScottAnthony.jpg
DH and Grumpy went next:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/WaltAnthony.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/NathanAnthony.jpg

When it was my turn I must admit I was a bit nervous :blush: . I told him I loved how he was able to bring C-3PO to life and he told me I had a lovely family. It was worth the wait time this morning :thumbsup2
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7772.jpg

Next up...
Dinner at 'Ohana and how to get from here to there using WDW transport

[lonegirl]

I must admit I love your report because it means that in 12 years, my two boys will still happily go to WDW with us! Thanks for a glimpse into the future...the parts where you mention that your boys go off to ride a ride while you and DH stand in line make me smile...with a 2 and 4 year old, it is hard to imagine DH and I being alone, EVER!

[tksbaskets]

Dinner at 'Ohana
WOW look at the crowd at MGM by 4:30 in the afternoon. WHEW time for my family to get out of here ;)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7733.jpg

We took the bus to the Poly for our 6:50 ressies. We arrived at 5:50 and asked to be seated as soon as we could. Very nice resort :thumbsup2 Here is a little peek:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-1.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-2-1.jpg

Dinner was another Table Service and we rated it two thumbs up :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 First came appetizers - all tasty, entertainment throughout the dinner. Then we got smokin' hot towels with lemon to freshen up before the next course. The mixed greens with honey-lime dressing ROCKED!
(We are so shiny because we are so stinkin' hot!)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-3.jpg
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m-4.jpg

The main course of Marinated sirloin steak, Asian BBQ pork loin, Mesquite grilled turkey, and Hawaiian pork sausage with pineapple-teriyaki glaze came on big kabob sticks and it was all delicious. Dessert: 'Ohana bread pudding a la mode with Banana Foster sauce, was out of this world!

Now for our adventure. We knew there was a boat that went from EPCOT to BWV. We took the monorail from the Poly to EPCOT. Then we had to enter the park and walk to the World Showcase beyond England to get to the International Gateway. Quite a hike - we didn't feel guilty about the bread pudding now! From there we took the Friendship to BWV. We had walked in the morning, taken a bus in the afternoon, ridden the monrail in the evening, and topped our day off with a boat ride back 'home'. Quite the world travelers.

Donald and I stopped off at the store and picked up our treasures from DTD and went back to our room. Being frugal, I headed down to the Boardwalk Bakery with our mugs and returned with refreshing sodas for my family. At 2 bucks per soda, I had quite a few trips to make the mugs a good buy ;) . What a good mom :wizard:

Next up:
More MGM (just a little) and our voyage to Typhoon Lagoon

[tksbaskets]

I must admit I love your report because it means that in 12 years, my two boys will still happily go to WDW with us! Thanks for a glimpse into the future...the parts where you mention that your boys go off to ride a ride while you and DH stand in line make me smile...with a 2 and 4 year old, it is hard to imagine DH and I being alone, EVER!

Your time will come my friend :yoda:
The boys still want to spend more time with us that not which I'm sure has nothing to do with us having more money than they do ;)

DH and I had some nice together time this trip. I've always said whatever age my kids are at is my 'favorite age' but I must admit having them be a little independent was really nice for us :hug:

Glad you are enjoying my trippie!
Teresa

[Snoozan]

tksbaskets - Just wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying your trip report! i also have 2 DS's(now 22 & 24)so also have many wonderful memories of WDW with my kiddos. I have one diehard Disney fan, but the oldest has come around now that he's "older".

I also love BWV and have my next trip planned for 11/07 there. Can't wait! Seeing all your photos are bringing back many great memories for me - looking forward to hearing the rest of your story.

[WDWLVR]

Teresa - great trip report. I'm so glad you are happy with DVC and with your Boardwalk home! May you all have many more happy trips together.

[tksbaskets]

tksbaskets - Just wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying your trip report! i also have 2 DS's(now 22 & 24)so also have many wonderful memories of WDW with my kiddos. I have one diehard Disney fan, but the oldest has come around now that he's "older".

I also love BWV and have my next trip planned for 11/07 there. Can't wait! Seeing all your photos are bringing back many great memories for me - looking forward to hearing the rest of your story.
Thanks! Nice to hear that the boys may still want to go with us when they are older. I bet that you will be a bit cooler in November. You will have a wonderful time. ;)

Teresa - great trip report. I'm so glad you are happy with DVC and with your Boardwalk home! May you all have many more happy trips together.
Thanks Mary! You and Mark were instrumental in helping us choose our vacation ‘home’ and we are very happy with our membership :cool1:

[DisneyJenn18]

Hello!

Enjoying your report! I love the star wars stuff! The parade looks awesome! thanks for posting pics of it, although I don't think I could bear that humid heat..I live in arizona, the average around 110 in summer..but it's not that humid florida heat! =)

Can't wait to read more!!! popcorn::

[tksbaskets]

Just a wee bit more SWW then off to hit the waves at Typhoon Lagoon
Sarge let us sit in until 0630 today :woohoo: since it wasn't EMH at MGM this morning. Whew! It was hot already.

Our plans today: 1/2 day at MGM with a QS lunch, then off to Typhoon Lagoon where we could take advantage of the evening EMH.

We were at the gate by 0730 and were able to see the show with the stormtroopers on top of the MGM entrance.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/mgm-1.jpg

The line for FP autographs for Jay Lagala was quite short. It looked like we might be able to get a 10 am autograph! We are already in the turnstyle line, look to the right at the line for Anthony Daniels. They even sent in a Clone Trooper to keep the lines orderly :darth:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/mgm-2.jpg

We waited in line and then noticed that Jay only had one signing at 3:45 pm. RATS, we got the FP since we had already stood in line for an hour. We saw our line friend from Friday and were able to make her day giving her the FP for the afternoon. (She was in line for the Ewok fella)

Now it was normal MGM for our family! Off to RRC to get a FP, ride the stand-by line, then off to TOT. Back to take RRC to ride with our FP. Did I mention that we LOVE that ride? This was a sign of what a wonderful day we'd have over by TOT.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/mgm-3.jpg

It was about 10 am by now and time for a little shopping down Sunset Boulevard. I picked up a darling Grumpy Golf towel that got a workout the rest of the week as it joined the staples in my trusty back pack.

At 1030 my guys were the first in line for a smoked turkey leg at Toluca Lets Turkey Co. I was not in the mood for such a treat ;) so I made do with some chips...no hardship there. As you can see not many other families decided to eat this early :lmao:
QS at the TTL company included a beverage, the turkey leg, and a bag of chips. No desert there
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/mgm-4.jpg

After the men had full tummies, we went over to watch Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular. Grumpy really wanted to see it again since we didn't on our last trip. There was SRO for the 11:00 show which worked out great because several people decided not to go and we actually got a seat on the far right of the stage. Not the best vantage point, but we were sitting down and had a nice place to enjoy some chips!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/m2-1.jpg

After the show, Donald and Grumpy went to catch the Muppets 3-D and DH kept me company as I enjoyed a burger, fries, cold soda, and a tasty sugar-free parfait with my QS credit at Backlot Express. I win for a tasty lunch! I highly recommend the parfait.

By 1:00 pm we were walking back to BWV and the boys were excited about visiting Typhoon Lagoon. You will see a lack of pictures during the water park portion of the trippie as I just brought a disposable camera.

Typhoon Lagoon
The bus to Typhoon Lagoon also dropped of people at DTD so it was a bit of a ride. We had seats so all was well. We arrived around 2 pm and our first stop was at a little cart near the entrance to purchase an unlimited drink mug for $9.99. It had a very nice TL logo on it and the Cast Member put a barcode sticker on it that said "Saturday". I was then informed that if I brought the mug back to TL or Blizzard Beach, I could purchase a new sticker for $6.00. It was a very nice deal! :thumbsup2

Crowded doesn't describe the park. We trudged along (OK, you know it's is beastly hot and muggy and we've got a couple of teenagers walking with us) Let's just say it is a good thing that I'm used to tuning them out ;) . We ended up by area 'J' on the map which if you look at the map, is to the left. We found these two empty chairs after going counter-clockwise all the way around the park...I also stopped to rent four towels at a buck a piece. TIP: these towels are the exact ones at the pools from BWV. Just bring towels from your resort and save yourself the grief of standing in line.:)

This was a very good spot. The drink refill station #4 on the map was very handy and the bathrooms were near there. The drink station was very slick. You'd zap the bar code reader and then the ice and soda would dispense. We were hot and thirsty and it was nice to have this large mug at our disposal. We just left it at our chair and everyone would fill it when they needed too.

Grumpy and Donald LOVED the TL Surf Pool that sent out a 6-ft wave about every 90 seconds. I, however, found that being knocked to the ground by a tidal wave while several bodies crashed into me was not my cup of tea.

Tip for non-surfers: there are two 'islands' that have nice seating walls that face the tidal wave. If you sit there, the wave will come in and splash you about up to your belly button. Refreshing and it doesn't scrape your knees to bloody shreds

DH and I enjoyed Castaway Creek the lazy river that really moves at quite a good clip. A full trip takes around 20 minutes and there are several spots to get in and out. You just wait on the steps until an empty tube floats by. It is probably about 3 1/2 feet deep and many guests (our DSs included) just used it as a big circular swimming pool and went tube-less. We purchased speedo swim goggles for the boys and they actually turned the creek into a treasure hunt. DH and I locked our feet together and enjoyed two trips around the lazy river. We had our picture taken (while DH did) by a Photopass Photographer and the pass was on a little wrist band. DH made a good catch when she threw it to us. DH and I proclaimed Castaway Creek HEAVEN! I think the lifeguards knew us by name by our last trip around. :rotfl:

Around 5:30 pm we were able to get a lime green wrist band proclaiming us to be resort guests that were able to stay for EMH. We had dinner at Leaning Palms (another QS meal) which included beverage, entre (three double cheese burgers and one pizza), fries with the burgers, and ice cream treats for dessert. We were able to find a picnic table - no problem.

You have to love EMH :cool1: :cool1:
EMH started at 7pm and it was amazing how the crowds thinned out! We were able to ride the Crushin' Gusher twice right in a row before any line started (a must do!) Next, off to Gangplank Falls - a family raft ride that was fun too.

The boys and DH encouraged me to go on Humunga Kowabunga which I renamed "How to turn your tankini into a thong in 8 seconds". This is a triple shoot that is mostly enclosed and ends in a trough at the end. The guys 'loved' it. I found the indignity of trying to rid myself of an atomic wedgie outweighed the 'fun' which only added to their enjoyment - what's up with that!! ;)

I then spent an enjoyable hour sipping soda and people-watching while the fellas in my life hung out in the wave pool. At one point DH and the guys returned with another photopass bracelet for me. There was a photographer IN the wave pool and they know I'd love that they took a picture without my encouragement. Aren't they great :thumbsup2

We stayed until around 9 pm and then trooped with our expensive towels to the bus stop. We sat on the towels on the way back to BWV and deposited them at the IT pool. We changed and then Grumpy and I went down to pick up our packages. One bummer - I only had one of the wrist photopasses when I got back to our room. I walked all the way back to the bus stop but couldn't find it. It was the one with the fellas in the wave pool and I was so sad. Really the only disappointment of the entire trip.

Now here is one reason why I LOVE Disney. I filed a report of a lost photopass card through the photopass website and narrowed down the time frame and park where we lost the pictures. I referenced another photopass (from Blizzard Beach) for who was in the picture. 5 days later, I had an email from Disney that they found my photopass number and sent it along. I know few other companies that would have a Cast Member sit in front of a computer and look for my guys. Pixey dust for me! :tinker:

The nightlife on the Boardwalk
All the booths that were closed up during the day were open for business. Grumpy and I watched a magician for a bit and then enjoyed watching a juggler. Lots of people enjoying the hot night on the Boardwalk.

Next up:
Sunday at EPCOT and dinner at Cape May Cafe at the Beach Club

[tksbaskets]

Hello!

Enjoying your report! I love the star wars stuff! The parade looks awesome! thanks for posting pics of it, although I don't think I could bear that humid heat..I live in arizona, the average around 110 in summer..but it's not that humid florida heat! =)

Can't wait to read more!!! popcorn::

I'm glad you are enjoying the report. I have heard about 'dry heat' being a bit more bearable. You are right, Florida is NOT dry heat!

[ILMICKEY]

I am soooo loving your report. I have 14 and 16 year old sons, we are from Michigan and we are staying at the Boardwalk Villas.

How cool is that!!!

I am so glad to hear there was enough food on the DDP to fill those boys up. I was so worried about them leaving hungry. They could eat a quarter beef on the right day!!!

Can't wait to hear more!!

Oh, do your boys play football? I believe our town (Hillsdale Schools) plays Dexter in our conference!

[tksbaskets]

I am soooo loving your report. I have 14 and 16 year old sons, we are from Michigan and we are staying at the Boardwalk Villas.

How cool is that!!!

I am so glad to hear there was enough food on the DDP to fill those boys up. I was so worried about them leaving hungry. They could eat a quarter beef on the right day!!!

Can't wait to hear more!!

Oh, do your boys play football? I believe our town (Hillsdale Schools) plays Dexter in our conference!
Glad you are enjoying my trippie :goodvibes

Your boys will love the Community Hall (coming soon in my post) at BWV. :cool1: When is your trip?

Yes, Grumpy plays football and will be on Varsity next year. Hillsdale is our first game of the season I do believe. Does your DSs play? Donald marches in the band.

No worries about hunger. We were so full from our meals I don't think either snacked much in our room :cutie:

[ILMICKEY]

Not yet. Well maybe I guess if he is really good??? He is just going to be a Freshman this year. My junior doesn't do the "sports" thing. He plays the violin.

That's good to hear about the DDP. I was planning on bringing a bunch of snacks for the room, but yaaaaay I can spend my money on Disney!!

[WDW Poly Princess]

Loving your report so far!

Disney knows how to do it! Not just one little Storm Trooper for them!

That's actually the 501st- they're people who dress up as Storm Troopers for fun, not Disney CMs.

I heard that on the weekend I had planned to go (the 8th), people were lining up for the celeb FP lines at 4am!!! I can't imagine sitting out there for 5 hours!

Very cool of th Photopass people to look up the photo for you!

[Halloweenqueen]

Anthony Daniels looks like a sweetheart!

The pictures are great. One of those turkey legs sounds good right now. ;)

[tksbaskets]

Loving your report so far!

That's actually the 501st- they're people who dress up as Storm Troopers for fun, not Disney CMs.

I heard that on the weekend I had planned to go (the 8th), people were lining up for the celeb FP lines at 4am!!! I can't imagine sitting out there for 5 hours!

Very cool of th Photopass people to look up the photo for you!
Glad you are enjoying! WOW, the 501 is a group of lay people? They looked very authentic!

Two hours was plenty for us! We were happy with our session with AD :goodvibes

Anthony Daniels looks like a sweetheart!

The pictures are great. One of those turkey legs sounds good right now. ;)
Thanks! He was really charming and made the early morning sauna waiting for our fast passes worth while :yay:

[tksbaskets]

Not yet. Well maybe I guess if he is really good??? He is just going to be a Freshman this year. My junior doesn't do the "sports" thing. He plays the violin.

That's good to hear about the DDP. I was planning on bringing a bunch of snacks for the room, but yaaaaay I can spend my money on Disney!!

My football player also plays viola. Yes spend your money on other things. We had a tough time using up our snack credits and actually purchased snacks for the plane from the store at the BW. You can use it on any food item less than $4. :thumbsup2

[tksbaskets]

EPCOT EMH & the ride that almost was in Norway

Can you believe it is Sunday already and our trip is more than half over? That means we have to enjoy the time we have left :cool1:

We slept in today till 6:30 when Sarge rousted the troops (and actually pulled Grumpy out of the bed by his leg!) We were out the door by 7:30 and on our way to the boat dock to EPCOT. Surprisingly there was NO one else on the dock but there were little chains across the end of the gangplank.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/boatdock-1.jpg
Tip:The best way to hear the Captain of the Friendship over the bull horn is to undo the chain yourself and stand on the dock. Then you will be treated to the following "Please move back behind the chain. We can not dock if you are standing on the platform"

Now who would do that. Sure glad it wasn't us (and that absolutely no one else was there to hear it) :rolleyes1

Next stop: The International Gateway! We stood at the gate for about 15 minutes before the park opened and then we were off and running...walking briskly....in the heat towards Soarin' and I tell you it was a trek! We immediately got fast passes because we knew we'd want to go again and then went into the stand-by line. We were on the ride in less than 15 minutes and were in the front row which was PERFECT. No problem with motion sickness at all (from DH's private trippie) and you really felt like you were hang gliding. I must admit that I ducked in one part to the great amusement of my guys! :rotfl:

After Soarin' DSs made a B-line for Mission Space to scramble their bodies. I must admit that DH and I went to ride Finding Nemo and there was a huge line :confused3 Not to worry my friends, there was a FP photographer in front of a nice garden with Nemo and friends. DH and I had what we consider our 'sweating with the fish' 20th anniversary photo ;) and then went over to the ride. Come to find out, this ride was not on the EMH list but it was 8:55 and the line zipped right along.

When we came out Donald and Grumps text messaged me that they were out of their ride and had a FP for 1100 for another spin. They made their way back to us to see "Honey I Shrunk the Audience" Now if I'm perfectly frank, I have to tell you that this pales in comparison to the Muppets at MGM and the super Mickey's Philharmagic at MK. Not HISTK's fault as it was the first and still it is a fun and COOL way to pass a bit of time at EPCOT. Back to Soarin' to use our Fast Passes and we were in the third row. The ride was still great, but we all found the feet dangling above us took a little away from the feeling you were out there hang-gliding.

Together we trooped across future world to get fast passes for Test Track and to have the boys use their MS FP (still with me with all the abreviations??) DH and I enjoyed a cool LARGE soda and sat in the shade outside of Test Track. Our FP were for 2:15 pm which worked out fine for us.

It is now 11:00 am and World Showcase is open and that means "QS lunch time for the family" We scoped out all our choices from the guidemap and the boys decided to try lunch in China. I took a picture of the pond as we are having one put in as I type. I feel for the fellas out there with our Florida like weather in Michigan today. Our pond is not soooo big ;)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-02.jpg

Donald got a beef soup thing and Grumpy got a chicken dish. The beverage and ginger ice cream were included with a QS credit.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-04.jpg

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-05.jpg

DH and I waited until they got their meals with our Pal Mickey. He looks good with his DVC had doesn't he? PM makes world showcase a lot of fun!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-03.jpg

Now for the winners of the DDP lunch contest! Tangierine Cafe in Morocco!!

We ate there in December and loved it! We both had the Schwarma Chicken and Lamb platter. It is delicious and comes with a side of tasty hummus, tabouleh, and a tangiering couscous salad with fresh morracan bread (thanks WDWinfo) But wait, for our QS we also get a beverage and a square of divine
baklava as our dessert. Can you tell we liked it? By this time the boys had found us (rats ;) ) and shared some of mom's lunch and proclaimed us the winners. To those of you paying attention, this is a picture from December so you don't think DH is NUTS and wearing a sweatshirt in June :lmao: Don't you want to dig right in?
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/tangerinecafe-1.jpg

We took a right out of Morocco and headed to Norway with our tummies happy to ride Malestrom in Norway. I had heard a lot about it and we have never taken the time to ride this attraction. Look who we saw on the way??:cool1: :cool1: Donald for my Donald! He and his friend were tucked up to the right as we were walking to Norway. Remember to look left and right my Photopass friends :thumbsup2
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-08.jpg

Look at the gardening at EPCOT. This is a topiary (probably not spelled correctly but you get the idea) depicting the newest DVC Animal Kingdom Lodge.....can you say addonitis???
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-07.jpg

The line outside was in the beating sun - what's a little sweat between world travelers? - and we were glad when the line finally moved so we were inside. We wove like complacent cattle for about 40 minutes and a couple of times heard an announcement to please stay in the boats as they were experience technical difficulty. Not good. :sad2: The little viking ships were still moving along until we were about 50 people from the front of the line and they turned on all the lights (another bad sign) and told us if we were in the staging area (weaving back and forth) to just continue forward to exit. I felt really bad for the families who had to get out of their ship...alas, it was not to be. My family will have to visit Norway on another visit.

We shopped a little and hunted down a Photopass guy until it was time for our Test Track FP.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-01.jpg

Did I mention we thing the fast pass system ROCKS?? Off we went into the short line, passing all the 'little people'. We received our parameters for our test and off we went. After the first rough road, the car in front of us experienced technical difficulty and we had to wait around 5 minutes while the mechanics came out and repaired the car (much like a real test track I bet) Years ago we broke down in the heat chamber so this was much better :laughing: Soon we were off and bouncing and jerking our way through our test. When you hit the open track outside it is invigorating (and the place your picture is taken is right before you crash the doors to the outside) We zoomed our way around. When we were unloading a supervisor (not dressed like a normal CM) pointed to our car (we were almost all out...OK, I was still exiting) and said "I want the people who were in that car!" What had we done???? :scared1: Should I not have mentioned the car breaking down on our last visit?? Had they heard me??? NO - He said "I want you all to get right back in and have another ride" :woohoo: :woohoo: Can you believe it?? A back-2-back TT ride. We pulled around the corner from the loading area and they took off the limping car into a 'garage' and we were off. We changed positions so the back riders were in the front. This is the only ride where you can put your pictures on your photopass. They either give you a paper-type photopass or you just slide your card in the slot to have the picture added. Very slick! I hope the other attractions start to do this too. I can get a much higher quality photo from my local photo shop and it saves BIG bucks as I almost always cough up $17 for our picture

It may not seem like it, but my family was much less commando this trip than in the past. We each had a Snack Credit Ice Cream treat before we boarded the Friendship for a nice ride back to BWV and a nice nap before our dinner at Cape May Cafe at the Beach Club at 5:30 pm.

Next: More reasons to love DVC!!

[tksbaskets]

More great things about Boardwalk Villas!! The Community Hall
While DH relaxed (read watched ESPN while reclining on our King-sized bed), the boys and I grabbed our drink mugs and went back down to the boardwalk. By one of the smaller pools is the little-used and super-great Community Hall. Here is the little pool with a small hot tub near the far umbrella, the community hall is to the right. When we went down the stairs close to our room we came out right there in the corner by the hot tub. The walkway to MGM is directly on the other side of the Community Hall.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/communityhall-1-1.jpg

What is so great? As DVC members, you can check-out up to 3 DVDs at a time for free (DVD players in the room). The hall is sparkling clean, air conditioned, and there are two Disney Cast Members who work at the hall. There are different crafts every day and the schedule is listed. Also a ping-pong table, air hockey, and to the boys delight - THREE Nintendo game cube machines and guess what - FREE!!!!!! A big screen TV was in the corner with comfy furniture for flopping. As a side note, the ladies room off the hall is quite nice too. There is a small library of pool-worthy books there too you can check out. Sorry I didn't take more pictures but I encourage everyone with kids to get them to the Community Hall at the start of your trip like we did! :thumbsup2
How's this for beating the expensive money eating arcade:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CommunityHall-1.jpg

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CommunityHall-2.jpg

Cape May Cafe
Each day it has looked like it was going to rain. Today was no different. We left for our short walk to the Beach Club a little before 5 pm. Down to the Boardwalk, right turn and before we even got to the bridge these huge drops of rain started to fall. Refreshing until the serious "Caddy Shack" rain started to fall. We quick-stepped it to the first little pool building at BCV. Looking like it wasn't going to stop we cleverly grabbed pool towels for head covering and made a dash for the main BCV building. Quite proud of ourselves for not arriving looking like drowned rats we deposited our towels in a window well with about 20 others and checked-in at the Cape May Cafe desk. This is the only time we encountered a 'non-Disney' DVC family. The dad had obviously not had a pixie-filled day and was throwing colorful metaphors at his DW. It was quite uncomfortable and my DSs, not having ever heard a man talk to his wife that way, were prone to stare. Look away :eek: We went down the hall with our buzzer to avoid "Jafar" and his poor family. We peeked into CMC and saw the tasty buffet all ready for us and Jafar was quickly forgotten. Shrimp sighting on the left!! :woohoo:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-09.jpg

We were seated quickly and the boys made tracks to the buffet while DH and I ordered our drinks. Can you tell my guys LOVE any type of seafood? Cape May Cafe's clambake did not disappoint!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-10.jpg

We loved the paper-covered tables and the New England feel. We didn't like that Jafar and his family were seated directly to our right. When asked what he'd like to drink his response was "What is the cheapest beer you have??" Now I think that says it all about Jafar! We had to laugh after that. :lmao:

There was a good variety on the buffet and dessert was very good. I highly recommend the Creme Brule cheesecake and the tiny Key Lime pie tart.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/epcot-11.jpg

Grumpy couldn't wait to get back to the room and watch the DVD of Pirates of the Caribbean and Donald headed to the Community Hall. DH and I lingered around the BCV and declared our home at BW every bit as nice :goodvibes Back at the Boardwalk I made my nightly pilgrimage to the Boardwalk Bakery for soda (even dropped one off for Donald at the CH) and readied our beach bag for the next day. By 9 pm I was sitting on our balcony watching the fireworks. Ahhhh, our little slice of heaven. :cloud9:

Next up:
Hitting the slopes at Blizzard Beach

[V10Torque]

I don't have enough posts to PM you but if you PM me with your e-mail I'll give you my phone number if you'd like some free plants and Red Comet fish to get your pond started. We built one six years ago. You're going to love it!

Thanks again for the GREAT report!

[Jillpie]

"throwing colorful metaphors", okay, loved that. I don't think I wanna know what this man was sayin though, thats just awful on vacation. You can imagine how he treats her at home:sad2:

Anyway! Your report is once again hugely entertaining, and SO much reminds me of my family and boys. We love Blizzard Beach, so can't wait to hear your details, how funny is that family raft ride:lmao: !

[ILMICKEY]

Awesome!! Thanks for the tip on the Community Hall. I LOVE FREE!!

It is really amazing to me that people can't keep their "business" to theirselves. Why do others have to share in the misery.

His poor wife.

Keep it comin!! Lovin it!

[tksbaskets]

I don't have enough posts to PM you but if you PM me with your e-mail I'll give you my phone number if you'd like some free plants and Red Comet fish to get your pond started. We built one six years ago. You're going to love it!

Thanks again for the GREAT report!
I’m glad you are enjoying our trippie. It is nice to hear you love your pond. The PM is on the way. I’ve never heard of Red Comet fish. Off to google now :fish:

"throwing colorful metaphors", okay, loved that. I don't think I wanna know what this man was sayin though, thats just awful on vacation. You can imagine how he treats her at home:sad2:

Anyway! Your report is once again hugely entertaining, and SO much reminds me of my family and boys. We love Blizzard Beach, so can't wait to hear your details, how funny is that family raft ride:lmao: !
I was thinking the same thing of that poor woman :eek: . Makes me appreciate my DH even more. It is our 20th anniversary today :hug:

I’m glad you are having fun sharing our trip with us. Blizzard Beach is a blast…coming right up!

Awesome!! Thanks for the tip on the Community Hall. I LOVE FREE!!

It is really amazing to me that people can't keep their "business" to themselves. Why do others have to share in the misery.

His poor wife.

Keep it comin!! Lovin it!
I think the Community Hall is a well kept secret. Donald went there a couple of evenings just to hang out and play Game Cube and it was never crowded. :thumbsup2

Thanks for reading!

[byoung]

Thanks for reporting, great photo's

[jbthi]

I love your report and the pictures are great.

I agree that I wish BWV had a drink station. Would make it so much easier.
I am almost certain though that I used the Boardwalk Bakery last Nov. for my Snack and Counter Service meals on my DDP. They have wonderful sandwiches.

[Ciciwoowoo]

I love your trippie!!! :goodvibes

Boardwalk is our home too! Maybe they will let us put up a Michigan flag! There sure are a lot of us who have a home at the Boardwalk!

Oh, we have a couple of comets. (I don't know if they are termed "red" though):fish: They are goldfish. I think they get as big as their environment will let them. Ours live in their tank and are probably 3 inches long!

I look forward to reading more!

[Busymom85]

Great trip report. My son and husband would love sww. They love star wars. My son has over 70 star wars books that he has read. I would love to be a DVC member. How fun it looks. Thanks for the report.

[Database]

Great Trippie.

I've been looking for one at BWV!:goodvibes

[tinawv]

I am really enjoying your trip report and photos. How handsome your boys are. I bet your phone lines are pretty busy at home. ;)

Can't wait to read more. :)

[suevee]

Thank you for your great report. We are going next June 10 to 23. I have never really enjoyed MGM, but now I see why! I missed the parades. My DGS (age 5) will be in heaven with all the Star Wars stuff!!! You have helped me in my planning for next year!! I hope a SWW falls on our dates.

[Disneyolic]

It's time for a bit of reprimanding here. I noticed that you visited CourtneyandRyan's TR but you haven't visited mine yet. And, I have been a faithful follower of yours...just saying :rolleyes1

Now, if THAT isn't the biggest pimp out of my TR then what is???

[puggymom]

I'm so glad I found your trippie. I too just bought at BWV, can't wait for my first visit home.

Your pics are great and that is good to know about the community hall.

Can't wait to read more.

Oh and I hear you about Pennywise, I think that everytime I see a pic of the pool.:scared:

[tksbaskets]

Thanks for reporting, great photo's

Glad you are enjoying the pictures! :) From your sig I see you have stayed at many DVC resorts. Did you like VWL? We may try that in April.

I love your report and the pictures are great.

I agree that I wish BWV had a drink station. Would make it so much easier.
I am almost certain though that I used the Boardwalk Bakery last Nov. for my Snack and Counter Service meals on my DDP. They have wonderful sandwiches.

Good to know about the QS at the Boardwalk Bakery. Do you recall what was included with your sandwich on the DDP there? DSs were both wanting ice cream for their desert :mickeybar

I love your trippie!!! :goodvibes

Boardwalk is our home too! Maybe they will let us put up a Michigan flag! There sure are a lot of us who have a home at the Boardwalk!

Oh, we have a couple of comets. (I don't know if they are termed "red" though):fish: They are goldfish. I think they get as big as their environment will let them. Ours live in their tank and are probably 3 inches long!

I look forward to reading more!
I’m looking forward to your trippie too. December is a much cooler time to go :santa: ! Thanks for reading

Great trip report. My son and husband would love sww. They love star wars. My son has over 70 star wars books that he has read. I would love to be a DVC member. How fun it looks. Thanks for the report.

Your son and my Donald would get along well. He has read about every SW book out there too. :yoda:

We waited, researched, and saved for 5 years before we joined DVC. We are extremely satisfied with our purchase (and I usually have a sinking feeling when spending this much $$). Never did with DVC! We cruised in December and DVC treated us like royalty – some goodie every day, many ‘treats’ in our cabin, always said ‘hello’ when the DVC cast members saw us around the ship.

Great Trippie.

I've been looking for one at BWV!:goodvibes
Glad you found my trippie! If you have specific questions, fire away :)

I am really enjoying your trip report and photos. How handsome your boys are. I bet your phone lines are pretty busy at home. ;)

Can't wait to read more. :)
Aren’t you sweet! I must admit there is a fair amount of AIM and Text Messaging going on in my house. It is fun to see them at this age.

Thank you for your great report. We are going next June 10 to 23. I have never really enjoyed MGM, but now I see why! I missed the parades. My DGS (age 5) will be in heaven with all the Star Wars stuff!!! You have helped me in my planning for next year!! I hope a SWW falls on our dates.

There is a good chance SWW will be when you are there. Your DGS would LOVE it! The Jedi academy with the little ones was great! If you get the chance, watch the parade where I suggested and you’ll almost be first in line to see Jedi Mickey afterwards. Good luck with your planning. That is ½ the fun!

It's time for a bit of reprimanding here. I noticed that you visited CourtneyandRyan's TR but you haven't visited mine yet. And, I have been a faithful follower of yours...just saying :rolleyes1

Now, if THAT isn't the biggest pimp out of my TR then what is???

I visited and find I have LOTS of catching up to do! :cool1: Thanks for the nudge :thumbsup2

Your family is adorable and it is a blast to share other trippies that are at the same time. I about fell off my chair laughing when you were describing pushing the stoller up and careening down the entrance to the Land at EPCOT. :rotfl2:

Now DH will have to be patient while I catch up on many trippies :surfweb:

[tksbaskets]

Hitting the slopes at Blizzard Beach!

One again, no pictures...just talk...talk...talk...;)

Sarge played revelry a bit before 0600 so we would be ready to take full advantage of EMH at the Beach! We stopped off at the BWV pool to snag 4 towels and safely tuck them into my tote bag. No stopping to rent towels for a buck a piece today :thumbsup2

Minimal wait for the bus and then off we went. I had done a fair amount of scanning of the BB guidemap as it is the backside of the Typhoon Lagoon map. My objectives were to have a nice shady spot close to a drink refill station. By now you all probably know I must get my money's worth from a mug or a sticker :drinking1

We were all given an white wristband that proclaimed us a resort guest and let us enter at 0800. I did make a quick stop to purchase my $6 drink sticker and then we quick stepped it into the park. We took a left as soon as you go over the bridge from the entrance (by Frostbite Freddy's) and went counter clockwise until we were just before area 2 which is the Warming Hut.

OK, I must admit there were almost TOOOOOooo many choice spots we could have set up our camp. We chose an elevated deck with lots of shade and a wooden seat behind us for extra beverage holding and stuff gathering. It was perfect. :cloud9: We quickly laid claim to two chairs and two lounders and made tracks to Summit Plummet with is a 120-ft vertical free-falling body slide. Now faithful DIS readers, you know my issue with the other slide of a similar nature at TL....I was happy to hold all the water shoes and wait for my fellas at the bottom of the slope with my tankini fully covering my deri-area :woohoo:

At the bottom I joined another mom and waited for some recognition of body or suit from our vantage point. They actually record how fast you go down the slide. DH went 57 mph, Grumpy 53, Donald 52. They quickly went in the singles line of the chairlift to ride again.

Since I was such a good spotter my guys humored me after the second ride and we all went up the chairlift to ride Teamboat Springs the world's longest family raft ride. It was a lot of fun. We all proclaimed the raft ride at TL a bit more of a 'thrill' but this was a blast too.

Next we tried out Cross Country Creek - BB's lazy river. DSs both swam while DH and I bobbed along in our own tubes. We then went back to our area for refreshments and to try out the wave pool. This one was quite tame compared to TL, but you could also have a tube in this one. Grumpy and I saw a photopass chick and had a picture taken and DH and the boys tried to recreate the TL wavepool photo so I wouldn't be so bummed about loosing the other one. Aren't they sweet :angel:

DSs proclaimed the mat slides not their cup of tea but we enjoyed the Downhill Double Dipper racing slides and the boys liked Runoff Rapids.

By now it is time to hunt up some QS lunch so off to Lattawatta Lodge for cheeseburgers, fries, soda, and ice cream treats. Nothing makes a meal go down easier than a post-lunch family raft ride!

DH settled onto his lounge for a little meditation (nap) while I refilled my drink and cracked open a steamy romance novel. Donald and Grumpy headed off for the lazy river. Ahhhh life is good! At 2pm a storm was threatening and there was an announcement that everyone had to get out of the water. Since we had been at the water park for 6 hours, we decided to head to the bus and back to BWV for a little relaxation before our dinner at Chef Mickey!

How did BB compare to TL:
Donald - "I like BB better because the raft rides and slides were better"
Grumpy - "Summit Plummit rocked! Better slides at BB"
DH - "Wave pool better at TL, better slides at BB"
Me - "Crushin' Gusher was awsome at TL. EMH in the morning at BB took a lot of pressure off of me for finding a spot for the family"

Overall both are worth visiting, but if you have older children, BB provides more thrills.

Many stops before we made it back to BWV where the boys went to the Community Hall (and dropped off our used towels at the pool) and I secured our photopass from BB. DH and I then had a great nap ;)

Next up,
Dinner at Chef Mickey

[Jillpie]

awesome day at BB! thanks! I could completely picture where you were talking about as you were entering and then going on the rides, really great. Did you know you can leave the resort towels at the water parks though? I asked that once, and the laundry facility is all the same. Great report!!!

[tksbaskets]

Don't let them take your picture!!!
We were on the bus and heading towards the Magic Kingdom at 4:00 pm. We did a quick shop on Main Street before boarding the Monorail for the Contemporary Resort and Chef Mickey.

Of course our dinner ressies were one of the first at 5:20 pm. We checked in with the desk and were given a buzzer and told to go and have our picture taken in front of the famous Chef Mickey plate.

Side note: I should know better by now that whenever someone takes a cute picture of my family I open my wallet and money flies out! :sad2: This is NOT a photopass spot. They will bring the darling photo around to your table and say for a price you can keep them. I think if was between $20 & $30. So my friends, if you don't want to cough up the money, just avoid the picture thing before you go in all together.

We waited gazing at all the delectable deserts.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-03.jpg

Ohhh I'm so getting one of these when it's my turn:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-02.jpg

Or maybe one of these:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-01-1.jpg

Can you tell that BB burger is long gone??? Our buzzer goes off and we get seated fairly close to the buffet but I'm sitting smack dab next to a gigunga post on my right facing the buffet. OK, nice if you want a romantic setting with no one watching you eat, but a bummer if you want to see if Mickey is coming to your table :guilty: I know my boys are old....but I still like the character interaction and seeing the little ones at other tables light up when they come into our section. OK, I'm over it...here comes our first character!!
Do you have to be an ex-NBA star to be Goofey? DH is 6'2" and he looks like a shrimp.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-06.jpg

Chef Mickey is coming?? I wouldn't know from my cave-seat.....I slide my way out to say hello and to have a photo that proves I was on the vacation too.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-05.jpg

Our boys are well trained "If you ever want to go on vacation again you will be back from the buffet when the characters are near" Still works at 16! They smile, but with no teeth showing. I guess it's a good compromise :rolleyes: Did someone just lick me??
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-07.jpg

I love that picture. Oh...there is food here too which is good but besides the prime rib not anything terribly memorable.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-04.jpg

Hey - someone is making time with my fellas....
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-09.jpg

Here is DH's desert sampler. Didn't he show amazing restraint?? (Notice I'm not showing you my desert plate(s)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-08.jpg

DS is happy - look who's here:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/CM-10.jpg

There aren't very many places to get a picture with Donald at WDW and we have bagged two already this trip :donald:

We rolled out of Chef Mickey with my CM photograph (don't do it!) and Grumpy purchased a very nice WDW Hat that had pirate writing for DISNEY. Time for some more transportation hopping....Monorail to MK then off to the buses. One GOOD bus thing with BWV is we are the first stop after you board at MK.

Guess where the boys went? Yep - off to the Community Hall. Me? Of course, to get sodas at the Bakery. DH and I then enjoyed the fireworks from our balcony.

Tomorrow -
Our last full day and a visit to the Magic Kingdom. Dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern

[tksbaskets]

awesome day at BB! thanks! I could completely picture where you were talking about as you were entering and then going on the rides, really great. Did you know you can leave the resort towels at the water parks though? I asked that once, and the laundry facility is all the same. Great report!!!

Good tip about the towels! I'm glad you shared our day at the Beach with us :goodvibes

[Jillpie]

And to think your trippie was done for the night:banana: yippee you surprised me with another one!! okay, "cave seat":lmao: , you come out with the funniest expressions! We haven't taken that picture at Chef Mickey's since our first trip in 1999, but ya know what, I'm so glad we did because that picture sits on our tv, and reminds us of our very first time at DW. Totally agree about the pressure to buy though. Very hard to resist. Going back to the resort and watching the fireworks without the kids...sounds just like us. Isn't is SO nice that you've got some freedom now?? Its truly an awesome thing. We enjoy that too now. So are you still up and will deliver more tonight??:cool2:

[dvc at last !]

Loved your report -
we are staying at BWV in September for the first time.

[Thumpersmom]

Love the report and all the pics......We will be there in just about a month.
Thanks for sharing!

[suevee]

An example of how over planning I am- I copied your suggestion for parade seating and pasted it to my WDW June 08 file! Just so I don't forget.:cool1:

[Elitravelor]

Great report! We are at the BWI this August and your report is making me so happy. Your boys look so great--our son is now 21 and is excited to do his first adult trip;) --but we loved those teen trips with our big guy, we have great memories. Wish we did DVC years ago--oh well.

We have not been to Disney in 4 years so I am unsure about the Photopass--is it on a CD now? Sounds cool if it is. How does it work now?

[Disneyolic]

What a busy day - BB & MK! Would you mind posting what dates and days you were at each park? I'm always curious on exactly when someone was somewhere, especially since I was down there too. I may have to look closer to see if I may be in any of your pics...:rotfl2:

[Donald is #1]

We have not been to Disney in 4 years so I am unsure about the Photopass--is it on a CD now? Sounds cool if it is. How does it work now?

There are WDW photographers stationed throughout the park. When you see your first photographer, ask them to take your picture and tell them that you don't have a photopass card. They will take your picture and then scan a card. They will then give you the card. Use this card whenever you see a photopass photographer. You can have them take as many pictures as you want. Just give them your photopass card and they will scan the card for all of the pictures. Now you can see the pictures using the card at any of the photo stores within the parks. Or more importantly, you can look at them on-line. The photos stay on-line for 30 days I believe. Once you have your pictures, you can either buy them individually or you can have all of them placed on a CD for about $125. Once you have the CD, you have the rights to the pictures. You can place multiple photopass cards on a CD but you only have 30 days to do it.

[Elitravelor]

Thanks Donald is #1 ! The photopass CD sounds great. I feel a Christmas card photo in the works!;)

[tksbaskets]

And to think your trippie was done for the night:banana: yippee you surprised me with another one!! okay, "cave seat":lmao: , you come out with the funniest expressions! We haven't taken that picture at Chef Mickey's since our first trip in 1999, but ya know what, I'm so glad we did because that picture sits on our tv, and reminds us of our very first time at DW. Totally agree about the pressure to buy though. Very hard to resist. Going back to the resort and watching the fireworks without the kids...sounds just like us. Isn't is SO nice that you've got some freedom now?? Its truly an awesome thing. We enjoy that too now. So are you still up and will deliver more tonight??:cool2:

Not that night but today is MK and Liberty Tree Tavern. :cool1: DH and I really enjoyed that the boys are more independent now. The mom in me is happy that they still want to spend more time with us at the parks than by themselves. :cloud9: Last installment today….I can’t believe how fast the week went!

Loved your report -
we are staying at BWV in September for the first time.

You’ll love it! You’ll have to tell us if the weather is a bit cooler in September :goodvibes

An example of how over planning I am- I copied your suggestion for parade seating and pasted it to my WDW June 08 file! Just so I don't forget.:cool1:

That isn’t OVER planning, just good planning. ;) I must admit I directly cut and pasted the parade seating suggestions out of a post from the SWW site I combed right onto my planner card!

Great report! We are at the BWI this August and your report is making me so happy. Your boys look so great--our son is now 21 and is excited to do his first adult trip;) --but we loved those teen trips with our big guy, we have great memories. Wish we did DVC years ago--oh well.

We have not been to Disney in 4 years so I am unsure about the Photopass--is it on a CD now? Sounds cool if it is. How does it work now?

I’m glad you are enjoying my report! I wish we had been in a position for DVC before now but we are enjoying the heck out of it after our long anticipation! It’s never too late. :banana: :banana:

I see Donald below gave you a great rundown on the Photopass – Thanks! :thumbsup2

What a busy day - BB & MK! Would you mind posting what dates and days you were at each park? I'm always curious on exactly when someone was somewhere, especially since I was down there too. I may have to look closer to see if I may be in any of your pics...:rotfl2:

Hi DM, I have been searching you photos too. How do our vacations sync up?
Friday June 22 – MGM
Saturday June 23 – MGM and Typhoon Lagoon
Sunday June 24 – EPCOT
Monday June 25 – Blizzard Beach
Tuesday June 26 – Magic Kingdom

There are WDW photographers stationed throughout the park. When you see your first photographer, ask them to take your picture and tell them that you don't have a photopass card. They will take your picture and then scan a card. They will then give you the card. Use this card whenever you see a photopass photographer. You can have them take as many pictures as you want. Just give them your photopass card and they will scan the card for all of the pictures. Now you can see the pictures using the card at any of the photo stores within the parks. Or more importantly, you can look at them on-line. The photos stay on-line for 30 days I believe. Once you have your pictures, you can either buy them individually or you can have all of them placed on a CD for about $125. Once you have the CD, you have the rights to the pictures. You can place multiple photopass cards on a CD but you only have 30 days to do it.

Well said my DIS friend! We have 127 images on our photopass now that I’ve added the graphics and borders. I must get off my duffer and order now. As Donald said, we only have 30 days post vacation!

Thanks Donald is #1 ! The photopass CD sounds great. I feel a Christmas card photo in the works!;)

Perfect! The shots are so professional with just the right amount of background/people. They do this every day and know how to get just the right shot. :cool2:

[Disneyolic]

Hi DM, I have been searching you photos too. How do our vacations sync up?
Friday June 22 – MGM
Saturday June 23 – MGM and Typhoon Lagoon
Sunday June 24 – EPCOT
Monday June 25 – Blizzard Beach
Tuesday June 26 – Magic Kingdom
That is the only day that we may have "met up". But it was just me and my daughter that day and we left in the early afternoon. If you were in Fantasyland that late morning, we were there...

[tksbaskets]

Magic Kingdom "How to use 11 Snack Credits in One day"

We let the troops sleep in clear 'till 6:15 today so we could be on the bus and ready for the rope drop at Magic Kingdom at 7:45 am. We quickly made our way past the photopass people (sniff...the guys were on a mission and promised to stop in the afternoon) to Tomorrowland. We rode DH favorite ride "Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin" and then all got a fast pass for the same ride. WARNING: Check the fastpass time before you get the FP. It was only 0805 and our fast passes were for 1030. You'd think we'd know by now! :confused3

Donald, Grumpy, and I went to ride Space Mountain but the standby line was already 45 minutes long. WAY too long a wait for us during our precious EMH! The boys took another spin with Buzz while I waited at the exit for DH. (He just rides that as many times as he can waiting for us on SM)

Off to Fantasyland for a ride on Winnie the Pooh and to see my favorite 3-D at WDW Mickey's Philharmagic. No lines on either :cool1:

Only 0830 by now and we made tracks to Adventureland to ride the Pirates of the Caribbean. We walked right into the attraction and were quickly on our way. Yo-ho pirate:

By now we are a lot less commando and it is time to use us some snack credits. DDP Side Note: You can use Snack Credit for anything from a $1.50 bottle of water to a $4.00 ice cream treat. I did have a problem using a SC for water/soda so on our last day we had 11 of our 20 snack credits remaining. We had some serious snacking to do. If you don't use it, you loose it We went to the Sunshine Tree Terrace for some yummy ice cream. Grumpy, Donald, and I had root beer floats and DH had a soft serve bowl of ice cream. (we won ;) ours was delish!)

After our snack we thought to ride Pirates again - YIKES :scared1: the line 50 minutes long. What's with the no fast pass for this attraction? :confused3 We watched a commercial be filmed for a few minutes outside the attraction and took in the Enchanted Tiki Room (Not my personal fav but boys wanted to go! Being a good mom who wanted smiling fellas later....)

Back we dashed to Tomorrowland for another chance to redeem my pitiful score as a Space Ranger. On the was I was able to stop the fellas long enough for a picture. Grumpy must have been living up to his name!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7840.jpg

We used our FP and then the boys and I got a FP for 1:30 for Space Mountain. FP tip: you may not know that you can arrive any time after your FP time to ride in the PF line for everything but a show. We all love the Walt Disney Carousel of Progress so that was our next stop after Buzz. Look who was right by there??? This is one of my favorite picture of the entire trip.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7841.jpg

We did have to wait for 20 minutes in the beating sun for that picture but I thought it was worth it :thumbsup2 . When we were seated in the COP, I was reviewing my photos and the castmember said over the mike "you in the fourth row, no photography" I mentioned that I was just looking at my pictures and he said (again in the mike) "I'm just telling you to put your camera away" Well he told me! :eek: DH was razzing me the rest of the day about it.

Scott had a smoked Turkey leg from The Lunching Pad for his QS lunch. It comes with a bag of chips and a drink with your credit. No dessert. Our CM was unfamiliar with the DDP and I spent a bit of time educating and waiting for a supervisor to correct my bill (he had charged my room key (visa) instead of using the QS credit) Know before you go ;)

Grumpy, DH, and I wanted to try the El Pirata y el Perico Restaurante. DH and DS had the taco salad and I had two tacos with a side of beans and rice. Our desert was a Hagan Das ice cream bar with almonds YUMM! We were able to stuff our tacos from a toppings bar while Donald secured a table for us. It was a tasty lunch and we'd to that again. A nice amount of food.

It was almost time to head over to Space Mountain and on our way we stopped to see the Dream Along with Mickey show they hold on the Castle Forecourt Stage. It is a cute show. We were a little far back so I have better pictures for you later. No your computer isn't tipping, I was holding up my camera....better not try that again!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7842.jpg

Loved Space Mountain although it is the jerkiest roller coaster at WDW and since the park was super crowded, we decided to head back to BWV for a little RnR before our dinner reservations at Liberty Tree Tavern at 5:05 pm. Boardwalk is the first stop coming from MK! :yay:
We look ready for naps don't we? I don't know if Grumpy likes to sit in the first available seat or he wants to be FAR away from his parents
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7852.jpg

DH likes to ride facing forward so he's in the back of the bus on this configuration
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7853.jpg

DS humored my by walking out front after the bus dropped us off for a photo:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7858.jpg

Our room is the yellow between the reds on the third floor.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7857.jpg

After snatching up our drink mugs, the boys were off to the Community Hall, DH decided it was a shame to have the king-sized bed just sitting there unused, and I went to take a few more pictures of our beloved BWV.

The boardwalk entrance to the lobby (you have to go up the steps to the lobby as it is on the second floor) Over the weekend there were activities in this grassy area in the evenings.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7865.jpg

Looking right down the boardwalk. Look at the detail of how the wooden boardwalk meets the brick. It's beautiful and fun to walk on :goodvibes
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7867.jpg

Lookin' to the left. The 'big' store is on the corner "The Screen Door General Store" is where your packages arrive if you send them from the parks or DTD:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7866.jpg

A good place to buy sugar free Goofy Gummies:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7869.jpg

The site of many a drink mug refills:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7871.jpg

Looking across the lagoon from the ESPN Club
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7872.jpg

We didn't eat here but liked the door
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7868.jpg

Next up:
Back to MK to Dream Along with Mickey and have dinner at LTT

[Disneyolic]

Magic Kingdom "How to use 11 Snack Credits in One day"

WARNING: Check the fastpass time before you get the FP. It was only 0805 and our fast passes were for 1030. You'd think we'd know by now! :confused3 Ahh..but you can still get another FP earlier than that...if you remember! ;)

FP tip: you may not know that you can arrive any time after your FP time to ride in the PF line for everything but a show. We did this quite a few times but I think they are more strict on EE and Soarin' tho....

It was almost time to head over to Space Mountain and on our way we stopped to see the Dream Along with Mickey show they hold on the Castle Forecourt Stage. It is a cute show. We were a little far back so I have better pictures for you later. No your computer isn't tipping, I was holding up my camera....better not try that again!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7842.jpgOkay...I can tell you exactly where we were at this time. Look at the stage, then to the right of the stage out of the picture on the nice walkway were me & my daughter. I guess you can just "picture us there". We may have passed you afterward. Brookie was dressed as a little Princess and we were headed out of the park after the show.

Looking right down the boardwalk. Look at the detail of how the wooden boardwalk meets the brick. It's beautiful and fun to walk on :goodvibes
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7867.jpgWhen we stayed at the YC we loved walking over to the BoardWalk in the evenings.

Next up:
Back to MK to Dream Along with Mickey and have dinner at LTT
Looking forward to it....

[tksbaskets]

Okay...I can tell you exactly where we were at this time. Look at the stage, then to the right of the stage out of the picture on the nice walkway were me & my daughter. I guess you can just "picture us there". We may have passed you afterward. Brookie was dressed as a little Princess and we were headed out of the park after the show.

I soooo know where you were! I'm comb my other pics and see if I see you and Brookie.

TK

[tksbaskets]

Liberty Tree Tavern - YUMM My final installment
Since our dinner ressies were for 5:05 pm, Sarge had us on the bus by 4:00 pm. We were able to stop for some Photopass photographers and get a close up view of the 4:35 Dream Along With Mickey. See...Donald (the duck, not my son) doesn't believe in dreams. With the help of the princesses, Mickey, and the audience, we save them all from the bad guys and Donald believes in dreams. OK, a bit of a condensed version but you get the idea!
Donald not believing in dreams
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7886.jpg

My tall DH getting shots of the princesses for me - now that is a good man :thumbsup2
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7887.jpg

Cinderella - it was sooooo hot this day I felt bad for them having to dance.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7888.jpg

Here is Snow White twirling by
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7889.jpg

The gang
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7901.jpg

Big Finale!
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7904.jpg

Perfect timing for our dinner ressies a hop, skip, & a jump over to Liberty Square.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7906.jpg

We were seated promptly and had a wonderful server. I was seated with my back to the main room with a view of the diners above. DH said it was his turn to take picture. (DH likes face pictures so you won't really get to appreciate the darling colonial garb on the characters)

Dinner was family style and all served at the table 'all you could eat'. We ate here in December for dinner (lunch is not character and is off the menu) and loved it. Here are some food pics from December.

DH liked the turkey. Grumpy and I liked the beef. Donald the pork. Worked out well :thumbsup2 Stuffing was so-so
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_6186.jpg

Not so-so was the super yummy mac and cheese, mashed potatos, and the fresh green beans. Makes me hungry just thinking about it.

Head's-up! Our first visitor has arrived!! Look how shiney. He's probably thinking 'this woman is hot'. Unfortunately in the temperature sense of the word.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7907.jpg

I did wrestle the camera away from my DH for a shot of Goofy with his great outfit.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7916.jpg

Our furry friends are here....quiz time...who is this??
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7909.jpg

Did you all say 'Dale'? You are right. Here is Chip (like chocolate chip for the color of his nose)
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7911.jpg

I must admit some characters visited us twice because we took our time over dinner. It was topped off with a simply wonderful warm apple cobbler with vanilla ice cream. Doesn't it look good???
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7918.jpg

Minnie came by to say hello to our good looking fellas.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7920.jpg

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7921.jpg

After dinner we went to the Hall of Presidents and then back for another viewing of Mickey's Philharmagic. No wait for either :cool1:

The boys did a little shopping and Donald bought a new hat. "Fat Donald" did not come home with us.
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_7922.jpg

We purchased two pretzels from the Lunching Pad (they have different fillings) with snack credits and headed back to the Boardwalk.

At the Boardwalk Bakery we each selected a treat for breakfast the next day and then at the general store, we purchased a snack for the plane. No snack credits remaining so all was well there.

DH and I packed while the boys headed off to the Community Hall. We did end up packing about 8 bottles of water in our suitcase and taking some cereal home. No biggie. DSs watched their rented 'National Treasure' DVD and put it in the drop box in the morning before we left.

On Wednesday morning we were at the bus stop waiting for our ME at 0900. We had a wonderful trip and a pretty uneventful trip back to Michigan.

Thanks for sharing our trip with us and I hope you all were able to find a little piece of advise to help you planning your next trip to WDW!

[Disneyolic]

Awww...it's the end already? How sad but I totally enjoyed reading your wonderful family vacation!!! :goodvibes

[tksbaskets]

Awww...it's the end already? How sad but I totally enjoyed reading your wonderful family vacation!!! :goodvibes

Thanks DM :goodvibes I can live through your trippie now! :yay:

[Jillpie]

I can't believe its over! I so enjoyed every word of it. We just got a brand new flat screen monitor last night and your pictures today are crystal clear on it, just beautiful. Well, I'll miss my nightly read. Thanks again!

[tksbaskets]

I can't believe its over! I so enjoyed every word of it. We just got a brand new flat screen monitor last night and your pictures today are crystal clear on it, just beautiful. Well, I'll miss my nightly read. Thanks again!

You are so sweet! :goodvibes I really had fun posting and getting replies from such nice DISers. I hope my sons will still want to go with us when they are in college. What's your secret?

Thanks for following along with us.
TK

[Sazzo'sMommy]

AWESOME report! Little Sazzo says, "May the Force Be With YOU!" :yoda: :chewy: :ewok:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/560921_075.jpg

[Jillpie]

You are so sweet! :goodvibes I really had fun posting and getting replies from such nice DISers. I hope my sons will still want to go with us when they are in college. What's your secret?

Thanks for following along with us.
TK

LOL, there really is no secret, I think as parents our love of this place is contagious to our kids and they just love it as much as us. Its all my DS19 was asking for this past Fall was to go on his spring break, so I surprised him with a small trip for just him and I. It was sooooo fun (until we got stranded at JFK from a freak March storm and had to sleep on a floor all night, he got into a fun 19 yr. old mood for a while there, but that was the worst of it, the rest of the week was a blast). You'll see, your boys will want to continue going and going. Thanks again for your awesome report!

[tksbaskets]

LOL, there really is no secret, I think as parents our love of this place is contagious to our kids and they just love it as much as us. Its all my DS19 was asking for this past Fall was to go on his spring break, so I surprised him with a small trip for just him and I. It was sooooo fun (until we got stranded at JFK from a freak March storm and had to sleep on a floor all night, he got into a fun 19 yr. old mood for a while there, but that was the worst of it, the rest of the week was a blast). You'll see, your boys will want to continue going and going. Thanks again for your awesome report!

Great to know! They are as excited about our Disney trips as DH and I are right now. We do tease them that DH and I will enjoy cruising and vacationing while only having to pay for two :lmao: but we'd always take them if they wanted to come with us.

Next up for us is our trip to DL and a Magical cruise to Mexico. For their senior trip, the boys want to go on a cruise. Who am I to complain :thumbsup2

[tksbaskets]

AWESOME report! Little Sazzo says, "May the Force Be With YOU!" :yoda: :chewy: :ewok:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/560921_075.jpg

How cute is that!! What year did you go?
TK

[Beep]

Brilliant, my favourite trip report ever! We are staying at the BWV for a couple of night in September and it was great to see the photos and read your experiences. I loved the pictures of the SWW - something I would love to go to.

Thank you for a great read. You'll have to go back every 6 months or so to write reports and keep us entertained!

[tksbaskets]

Brilliant, my favourite trip report ever! We are staying at the BWV for a couple of night in September and it was great to see the photos and read your experiences. I loved the pictures of the SWW - something I would love to go to.

Thank you for a great read. You'll have to go back every 6 months or so to write reports and keep us entertained!

Aren't you nice :goodvibes . I'm so glad you enjoyed my report. You'd have a blast at SWW but I suggest going on the first weekend instead of the last when it is soooo hot. Let me know how you like the BWV!

You just made my day! :thumbsup2

[pixe*dst]

Great report & thanks for sharing all of the pictures. We are staying at BWV for the first time in January with a standard view--so I really enjoyed your information & the resort pictures. I was also thankful to see a TR with two nearly grown boys--since my 2 will be that big in the blink of an eye & I am looking forward to many more WDW trips!

[tksbaskets]

Great report & thanks for sharing all of the pictures. We are staying at BWV for the first time in January with a standard view--so I really enjoyed your information & the resort pictures. I was also thankful to see a TR with two nearly grown boys--since my 2 will be that big in the blink of an eye & I am looking forward to many more WDW trips!

Hi Sarah,
It was my pleasure sharing our trip! It seems like only yesterday the boys were 7 and we were planning our first trip to WDW. In two more years they will be high school graduates. :eek:

We were very happy with our standard view room and loved the resort (we wish there was a food court and a self-serve drink refill station but that was our only want)

January will be a wonderful time to go~ Let us know how you like the resort.

TK

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I finally made it!!! :thumbsup2 Lots of catching up to do! ;) That's so neat that you stayed at the Boardwalk! We got married there at Sea Breeze Point, but I have yet to stay at the resort and I've been there so many times! It's so beautiful and I hope I can stay there some time soon. The pool looks so neat! I just love that clown slide! :banana:

[scottny]

Great report. the pictures were fantastic. thanks for sharing looks like you all had a great time.

[tksbaskets]

I finally made it!!! :thumbsup2 Lots of catching up to do! ;) That's so neat that you stayed at the Boardwalk! We got married there at Sea Breeze Point, but I have yet to stay at the resort and I've been there so many times! It's so beautiful and I hope I can stay there some time soon. The pool looks so neat! I just love that clown slide! :banana:

How exciting it must have been to be a Disney Bride! Boardwalk is beautiful. I'm glad you made it over to my trippie. :banana:

Great report. the pictures were fantastic. thanks for sharing looks like you all had a great time.

We had a wonderful time. I'm glad you enjoyed the report. I'm off to look at yours now :thumbsup2

[ILMICKEY]

I loved your trip report!! Your pictures of Boardwalk were wonderful, I can't wait to go. I've written the community hall down on my notes. I'm sure the boys will spend a lot of time there. Thanks for the tip!!

Maybe someday we will run in to each other at a football game!!

[tksbaskets]

I loved your trip report!! Your pictures of Boardwalk were wonderful, I can't wait to go. I've written the community hall down on my notes. I'm sure the boys will spend a lot of time there. Thanks for the tip!!

Maybe someday we will run in to each other at a football game!!

Your boys will LOVE the Community Hall. Take advantage of the DVD rentals too. FREE :thumbsup2 I felt very safe having them at the CH which is open until 10 pm and monitored by two Cast Members. It was never very crowded.

Football conditioning starts tonight at 6pm. It's 90 here today. Whew! It starts early now that our boys are older doesn't it?

[ILMICKEY]

Ours starts tonight too! Then they leave for camp on Sunday. Oh yeah, 5 days of peace and quiet!! I don't want to do anything when its hot like this, especially run around and sweat!! I think the week after that is when we will be in Dexter for our first game. Seems like it's the 9th.

[disneydance]

Great TR we were in WDW June 24- June 28 and stayed at the AKL and had many a great visit also we also were sweating like mad all there trip and are not used the heat since we live in Seattle Washington so we were extremely hot the whole intire trip so on our next trip we are going in January

[tksbaskets]

Ours starts tonight too! Then they leave for camp on Sunday. Oh yeah, 5 days of peace and quiet!! I don't want to do anything when its hot like this, especially run around and sweat!! I think the week after that is when we will be in Dexter for our first game. Seems like it's the 9th.

You play Dexter?? What is your team's name. We just got the schedule today. I'd love to say hello. My 'Grumpy' is a Junior so is likely to be watching from the sidelines....'Donald' marches in the band so he'll have some turf time ;)

[tksbaskets]

Great TR we were in WDW June 24- June 28 and stayed at the AKL and had many a great visit also we also were sweating like mad all there trip and are not used the heat since we live in Seattle Washington so we were extremely hot the whole entire trip so on our next trip we are going in January

I hear you about the heat. My sweat glands got such a good workout....I was 'glowing' the entire trip! Hubby and I said "never again" for the end of June. Beastly hot and humid and we aren't used to that combo in Michigan either.

January sounds good to us. This was the first trip I didn't come home with a new sweatshirt. :lmao:

How was the AKL? It looks beautiful!

[ILMICKEY]

You play Dexter?? What is your team's name. We just got the schedule today. I'd love to say hello. My 'Grumpy' is a Junior so is likely to be watching from the sidelines....'Donald' marches in the band so he'll have some turf time ;)
We are Hillsdale Hornets. My son is on the JV team. I hope I get a schedule soon. So I know how to plan my weeks. Seems like we are driving further and further away for games.

[disneydance]

I hear you about the heat. My sweat glands got such a good workout....I was 'glowing' the entire trip! Hubby and I said "never again" for the end of June. Beastly hot and humid and we aren't used to that combo in Michigan either.

January sounds good to us. This was the first trip I didn't come home with a new sweatshirt. :lmao:

How was the AKL? It looks beautiful!

The AKL was beautiful we almost always had some type of animal outside our window and had many girraffes outside. The resort itself is so beautiful they are doing the add of AKV right now and so they are doing so work like right outside our window but it was not disturbing at all. Ive heard there basically closing down the resort right now and we feel like there is no need to. We never heard anyone with complaints about the construction and the part inside the resort you could never tell there was construction anyway due they had a it draped off. Our next trip is planned for 09 and it will be in January. I dont care if the kids miss school as long as I get cooler weather. I know the main part of this trip was not to miss school... well still going before July and August when it gets TOO HOT and I guess thats the only week that worked great job on the TR :thumbsup2 and it was very entrertaining your boys are very handsome

Kaylie

[william4192]

Great report. We will be there in Sept!

[tksbaskets]

Great report. We will be there in Sept!

Glad you enjoyed it! September should be great weather :thumbsup2

[WDW Poly Princess]

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z230/tksbaskets/IMG_6186.jpg

I love this pic- it looks like Jedi Mickey and Yoda have just "made' dinner for you with their lightsabers!

[tksbaskets]

I love this pic- it looks like Jedi Mickey and Yoda have just "made' dinner for you with their lightsabers!

Too funny :rotfl: I didn't even notice when I artfully arranged Mickey and Yoda behind the food!

[KYCruiseCrazy]

it's taken a while to read now, (been reading and page saving for 5 days) but i'm bumed your TR is over. but all good things must end once in a while.

[tksbaskets]

it's taken a while to read now, (been reading and page saving for 5 days) but i'm bumed your TR is over. but all good things must end once in a while.

Thanks for reading and the nice comments! I'm glad you enjoyed my trip report. Sitting here in November it is hard to remember how HOT it was at Star Wars Weekend.
TK