Wild & Wacky 3 week LIVE Trip Report AKV, DCL & BWV [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

KristineN

05-30-2008, 03:39 PM

:welcome:WELCOME :welcome:

I can't promise you it will all be pretty....but it should be awfully interesting!!! Take a seat, and join my party!!

Cast of Characters

Me, Kristine…mom of 4 kids ages 20, 13, 10, 8…although the college kid isn’t joining us this time.:(

Raised as a Disney fan and have been going there since I was about 5

Hubby, Bill who is a recent Disney convert…enough so that we purchased a bunch of DVC points YEA!!!

Jackie, 13 going on about 30.

Chris, 10, has never met a thrill ride that he doesn’t like.

Kirsten 8, turning 9 during this trip!! Loves all things Disney

Trip Background

We purchased AKV points at the Doorway to Dreams and received double developer points. We decided to live it up and spend 11 days at Animal Kingdom Concierge!!! :cool1::cool1:

Somehow before I knew it, we were adding in a Disney Cruise, a trip to Kennedy Space Center, Sea World, Universal Studios & another week at the Boardwalk after the cruise. :faint::faint: Plus a couple of more surprises that I will save and tell you guys later.

This family has NEVER gone on a trip this long before…and I am just a tad nervous…but VERY excited!!!

So pour a glass of wine and join me for some WILD & WACKY ADVENTURES!!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/tr-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/tr2.jpg

Bags are packed, boarding passes are printed, cab has been ordered. We head out tomorrow morning.

STAY TUNED....

COMING UP TOMORROW:
We decided to head down a day early, Concierge was unavailable this night, so we are staying in a 1 bedroom Savannah view.

By the way...we have never rented a car before in WDW, but decided since this is such a long trip that it made sense. The kids were disappointed as the only time Bill & I ever argue is in the car. He likes to "help me" as he says. I am practicing my deep breathing exercises in advance...how bad can it be?? (Remind me I said that!!!!)

johnsonet

05-30-2008, 03:47 PM

3 weeks?? ::yes:: Nice! And AKL Concierge is one of my FAVORITES! Can't wait to read all about it :surfweb: Cute pics of your family :wizard:
(also secretly hoping to hear about the new Simpson's ride at Universal ;) )

KristineN

05-30-2008, 03:48 PM

we have NEVER been to Universal...so I am really excited to check it out (Sshhh....don't tell anyone) :rotfl:

3 weeks?? ::yes:: Nice! And AKL Concierge is one of my FAVORITES! Can't wait to read all about it :surfweb: Cute pics of your family :wizard:
(also secretly hoping to hear about the new Simpson's ride at Universal ;) )

tinknme

05-30-2008, 03:54 PM

Great start Kristine! I know this will be a trip you all will never forget & a trip report we as readers will always remember ::yes::

We love US, but have not been since 2005. Looking forward to returning once the Harry Potter part is open!

babytrees

05-30-2008, 04:23 PM

Yea!! a Kristine trip report:goodvibes

I can't wait to hear all of your adventures!!

Goldeelox9

05-30-2008, 04:31 PM

Hope you have fun! Can't wait to READ all about it!

pjstevens

05-30-2008, 04:46 PM

Kristine,

Have a wonderful time. Can't wait to hear all about your adventures! :cool1:

triplefigs

05-30-2008, 05:48 PM

Kristine, I hope you have a fantastic trip and can't wait to live through you for 2 weeks! And make sure to die yourself blue before heading to Universal so you'll match Marge... ;) :rolleyes1

Steamboat Marti

05-30-2008, 05:53 PM

we have NEVER been to Universal...so I am really excited to check it out (Sshhh....don't tell anyone) :rotfl:

Tell Christopher that I told him to go on the Hulk at Islands of Adventure, and he has to sit in the front seat. Then call me because I want his reaction!

Steamboat Marti

05-30-2008, 05:55 PM

lovesdumbo

05-30-2008, 07:17 PM

Sounds wonderful! Can't wait for live reports!

yellowfish78

05-30-2008, 07:26 PM

we have NEVER been to Universal...so I am really excited to check it out (Sshhh....don't tell anyone) :rotfl:
Yeah!!! Universal!!! Let me know if you check out Rising Star in Citywalk!
Tell Christopher that I told him to go on the Hulk at Islands of Adventure, and he has to sit in the front seat. Then call me because I want his reaction!
...I forgot about that ride...:faint:

LITTLEKID58

05-30-2008, 09:27 PM

Okay Kristine

Ready for your TR.....:)

ChristyJ

05-30-2008, 09:39 PM

I'm so excited for you guys and am sure you'll have a wonderful time! I can't wait to hear more about the surprises!;)

poohmomof5

05-30-2008, 09:49 PM

I am excited for you guys, you have a wide gap in your kids ages like I do...16 through 3 years old! Have a blast! :)

Imagoofy1

05-30-2008, 10:16 PM

Have a wonderful time. Looking forward to the TR HAVE FUN

my3princes

05-30-2008, 11:28 PM

I can't wait to read all about your adventures. I'm sure your trip report will get me ready for our own 3 week trip. :goodvibes

Steffy

05-31-2008, 01:12 AM

Have a wonderful time Kristine!!!! Can't wait to read all about it...:thumbsup2

KristineN

05-31-2008, 09:37 AM

Heading to the airport....next post from me will be from Animal Kingdom Lodge!! We are soooo excited!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/ak2jj.jpg

KristineN

05-31-2008, 08:50 PM

Just a quick update that we have arrived!!

The flight itself was uneventful.....unfortunately 1 piece of our luggage did not make it on our flight!!:worried: Turns out it went out on the flight after ours...we hung out at the airport an extra 1/2 hour and were good to go!!

waiting for luggage

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1a.jpg

The car rental went smoothly, with the help of the GPS...driving was a dream.

Right now we are in a 1 bedroom Villa at Animal Kingdom Lodge. We have a Savannah view. The view is amazing...we have seen lots of animals...of course every time I go out with a camera...only 1 animal remains :rotfl: I do not like the location of the room. It is too from from the lobby for my liking. Luckily we will be moving to concierge tomorrow. I will write more and post more pictures tomorrow...I am exhausted from the travel.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1d.jpg

A couple shots of the room

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1b.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1c.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family049.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family050.jpg

STAY TUNED...

COMING UP TOMORROW:

Move tour our 2 bedroom concierge unit Check out the final day at the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot
Lunch at Coral Reef with a surprise for our birthday girl!!

Tammi67

05-31-2008, 08:57 PM

WOW Kristine. Thanks for checking in. I'm loving all the designs and pictures you are throwing in. I'm glad you all made it safely. Can't wait to hear about your day tomorrow. Have fun!

mommykds

05-31-2008, 09:07 PM

Have fun Kristine!!!!!!

tinknme

05-31-2008, 09:15 PM

Hope you have a wonderful day tomorrow Kristine!

KristineN

06-01-2008, 05:50 PM

Hi everyone!!

We got up early today and checked out of our 1 bedroom unit and checked into our 2 bedroom concierge unit. The process was fairly seamless. Our room is not ready yet (not surprised given the fact that it is 8 am) we went to Epcot to check out the last day of the flower & garden festival...here are a couple of pics:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1a-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1b-1.jpg

WOW!! What can I say?! We are impressed with our 2 bedroom Villa. The view is very nice. The highlight for the kids was seeing an Ostrich lay an egg!! :rotfl:http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1g.jpg

The concierge offerings so far are delicious…and we can wait to try more. The kids are loving being in the studio portion of the unit...it's like they have their own apartment.

Lunch at the Coral Reef….check this out:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1f.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1e-1.jpg

She was very excited! Everyone applauded, it was very cute.

We found this when we came back to the room a little while ago:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1h.jpg

Tonight we are going on an Illuminations Cruise with another family.

Stay tuned…

Coming up tomorrow...

Typhoon Lagoon (cross your fingers for Bill-he doesn’t swim…so he’s a bit apprehensive)

Dinner at Boma

I will try to snap more pictures of the lodge

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-01-2008, 06:17 PM

Hi, Kristine! :yay: I want a giant platter of goodies when I stay concierge in August! That looks so yummy!
Glad you guys are having fun so far! Can't wait to read more about your adventures!

triplefigs

06-01-2008, 06:47 PM

Glad you're having fun. The sign was cute, and Happy Birthday, Kirsten!!! How was the food? Have fun on the cruise tonight!

yellowfish78

06-01-2008, 07:01 PM

:faint: That chocolate looks DIVINE!

Happy Birthday Kirsten!!!

ChristyJ

06-01-2008, 07:08 PM

Kristine, I'm loving the pictures and am realizing how badly we need to get back!!! Keep the info comin'!

Happy Birthday Kirsten!:cake: :bday: party: :bday:

lovesdumbo

06-01-2008, 08:20 PM

WOW!!! What a day-an ostrich laying and egg, super cool surprise at Coral Reef, and AWESOME platter from concierge! AND...you still have dinner at Boma and Illumination Cruise to go.

johnsonet

06-01-2008, 08:33 PM

OMG! Wonderful pics :thumbsup2 Have a great vacation. Can't wait to read more ::yes::

Tammi67

06-01-2008, 08:54 PM

Sounds like a fun day. Happy Birthday to Kirstin!!! How come no mention of the ex yet? When does he get there? ;)

I got my grand gathering number today so tomorrow I will call to have them make my ADRs.

my3princes

06-01-2008, 10:46 PM

HockeyMomR

06-02-2008, 07:22 AM

Enjoying your report. Can't wait to hear about the Illuminations cruise! Have a great trip!

Imagoofy1

06-02-2008, 08:15 AM

Happy Birthday Kirsten :cake: party: :bday: Looks like you are all having a blast. Enjoy the rest of your trip - have fun. Looking forward to more of your trip report.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-02-2008, 09:27 AM

Kristine, at what point did the plans for Chris to fly with Jeff change? Didn't he have soccer try-outs? I think you left out a piece of the story somewhere! :confused:

KristineN

06-02-2008, 02:44 PM

Christopher decided he didn't want to stay behind...I totally left it up to him. I think Jeff was sorely disappointed....I on the other hand was thrilled that he wasn't joining us!! :cool1::rotfl:

Kristine, at what point did the plans for Chris to fly with Jeff change? Didn't he have soccer try-outs? I think you left out a piece of the story somewhere! :confused:

Sounds like a fun day. Happy Birthday to Kirstin!!! How come no mention of the ex yet? When does he get there? ;)

I got my grand gathering number today so tomorrow I will call to have them make my ADRs.

KristineN

06-02-2008, 03:04 PM

Last nights Illuminations cruise was great. We share it with a family from Michigan. Salli, her mom Beverly and kids: Elizabeth, Michael & Christian. It was Michael's bday, so they had a cake on board. ( A mickey head, white cake with a custard filling...it was good)

Not the best pic...but the only one I took

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1i.jpg

We spent 5 hours at Typhoon Lagoon (Bill is currently in bed :lmao:) Bill liked the wave pool a lot. I went on all the slides with the kids....a couple of them I would not do again.

Elizabeth....with your towel fetish, concierge is the place for you. New towels ever AM, and then more at turn down. You would be in heaven!! :lmao:

Dinner at Boma tonight....

I will try to pop in later with more pics...

Stay tuned…

Coming up tomorrow

Disney Studios
Lunch at 50’s Prime Time
Wishes Cruise

tinknme

06-02-2008, 03:35 PM

Sounds like you are all having a wonderful time! Glad to hear the ex was not able to join :teeth:

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-02-2008, 04:38 PM

I think Chris made a very wise choice! ::yes::

Ahhh! Towels!:love: Think I can snag the extras from the concierge nights and use them for the DVC nights? :rolleyes1
I was thinking it wouldn't be that big of a deal if we couldn't book concierge for next year, but maybe it IS! Maybe I should prepare to call day by day at the 11 month mark. :rolleyes1

Glad you guys are haivng fun! Tell Bill we are proud of him for surviving the water park! :rotfl:

triplefigs

06-02-2008, 04:41 PM

Have fun at Boma! That's on our list to try. How are the crowds?

Steamboat Marti

06-02-2008, 04:51 PM

Make sure to say hello to our favorite server at 50s - Anas Loukili.

I'm proud of Bill for going for it - did he say he liked it or will he tell you that in about three days?

More pictures please! I'm going through withdrawal!

KristineN

06-02-2008, 05:01 PM

I finally uploaded some more lodge pics:

this is the lobby view from the concierge lounge:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2a.jpg

the lounge itself

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2b.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2c.jpg

lobby shots:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2d.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2j.jpg

animal pics:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2e.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2g.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2h.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2i.jpg

KristineN

06-02-2008, 05:06 PM

me too!! :)

Sounds like you are all having a wonderful time! Glad to hear the ex was not able to join :teeth:

yep...they would never notice....
I think Chris made a very wise choice! ::yes::

Ahhh! Towels!:love: Think I can snag the extras from the concierge nights and use them for the DVC nights? :rolleyes1
I was thinking it wouldn't be that big of a deal if we couldn't book concierge for next year, but maybe it IS! Maybe I should prepare to call day by day at the 11 month mark. :rolleyes1

Glad you guys are haivng fun! Tell Bill we are proud of him for surviving the water park! :rotfl:

so far the crowds are not bad....the lounge has been a real pleasure, almost empty. TL was not crowded until about 1:30....we left around 2 ish I wonder if the kids will like Boma...they are not adventurous at all.

Have fun at Boma! That's on our list to try. How are the crowds?

will do. yes, he would go back. but remember he is a sun worshiper...he was content to roast on a chair. he did not go on most of the slides.

BTW....loving the rental car. The GPS has been so wonderful

Make sure to say hello to our favorite server at 50s - Anas Loukili.

I'm proud of Bill for going for it - did he say he liked it or will he tell you that in about three days?

More pictures please! I'm going through withdrawal!

KristineN

06-02-2008, 05:08 PM

BTW...the wave pool at TL blew me on my a$$....I was sprawled out on the bottom like a dead fish :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

johnsonet

06-02-2008, 05:12 PM

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2c.jpg

Thank you so much for the pics! This one is new to me - the cooler with drinks - there used to be a trash can in that space!

Your kids are so cute and look like they're having a great time. I can't wait to read more. I L-O-V-E AKL :cloud9:

KristineN

06-02-2008, 05:19 PM

really? how interesting....the cooler has been well stocked with canned soda...there has also been milks, apple juice, yogurts.

This afternoon around 3 pm there was an assortment of cookies, scones, goldfish crackers, gummy bears, granola bars, rice kripsy treats, tea cookies.

Tonight I saw: some kind of stew, meatballs and another dish (didn't pay close attention since we're were not eating there tonight) 4 different types of cheeses, hummus & pita chips, different olives, PB sandwiches. beer, wines.

I will check out the cordials tonight.

Thank you so much for the pics! This one is new to me - the cooler with drinks - there used to be a trash can in that space!

Your kids are so cute and look like they're having a great time. I can't wait to read more. I L-O-V-E AKL :cloud9:

tinknme

06-02-2008, 05:29 PM

:lmao: Did Bill get a picture of that? :rotfl2:

BTW...the wave pool at TL blew me on my a$$....I was sprawled out on the bottom like a dead fish :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

tinknme

06-02-2008, 05:32 PM

Kristine your pictures are making me want to stay at AKL again, I just love it there!

johnsonet

06-02-2008, 05:51 PM

We found this when we came back to the room a little while ago:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d1h.jpg

That is truly amazing! Do you mind my asking, is this something you ordered or had you just mentioned that it was your DD's bday and they sent it as a surprise? Either way, what I'm wondering is whether I could order it thru CL Cms for my daughter this summer :hippie:

really? how interesting....the cooler has been well stocked with canned soda...there has also been milks, apple juice, yogurts.

I should've explained - there has always been a fridge for the drinks but it used to be smaller and it sat on the countertop right where it rounds the bend from where the CMs come out from the kitchen area to where the coffeemaker is...

the lobby view from the concierge lounge:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/2-1.jpg

I absolutely LOVE that view :cloud9: The lobby looks better than ever :thumbsup2

lovesdumbo

06-02-2008, 05:52 PM

I wonder if the kids will like Boma...they are not adventurous at all.
My Emma is the worlds pickiest eater and I was really worried about going to Boma with her but she ate more here than any other meal last year. The mac & cheese wasn't that overly cheesy stuff they have at most places.

I really liked the Amber Ale!:drinking1

triplefigs

06-02-2008, 05:56 PM

Kristine, are you in a 1bdr or 2bdr? I'm now debating whether to try AKV with concierge for a future trip.

mommykds

06-02-2008, 05:57 PM

I love the shot of the lobby from the CL. Looks wonderful!

tinker1bell

06-02-2008, 06:25 PM

Kristine, I hope you have a fantastic trip and can't wait to live through you for 2 weeks! And make sure to die yourself blue before heading to Universal so you'll match Marge... ;) :rolleyes1

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Kristine,

I just cannot wait to hear about your cruise. Many details, I want many details!!!

UP Disney

06-02-2008, 06:36 PM

I'm loving the report. The pictures are fabulous. You guys look like you are having fun. We never did check our schedules to see if we'd be in any parks on the same day. We'll be there Friday!!!! Hope to catch up with you some place.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-02-2008, 06:48 PM

Yep. Concierge for us next year. Definitely. ::yes::
All that and towels, too! Yep. Going for concierge. I'll need a crash course in day by day booking when you get back! :rotfl:

Tammi67

06-02-2008, 07:17 PM

I'm glad you had fun at TL.

I hope you enjoy Boma tonight. We all really like it.

KristineN

06-02-2008, 07:56 PM

Couple of pool shots

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family070.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family071.jpg

More animal shots:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family072.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family077.jpg

johnsonet

06-02-2008, 07:59 PM

Gosh! It looks so nice and EMPTY! I need to make a note to make a Disney trip the first week of June :thumbsup2

KristineN

06-02-2008, 08:01 PM

Every night at 7:50 they do a parade around the lobby...it was great, the kids got a big kick out of it.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family080.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family081.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family079.jpg

KristineN

06-02-2008, 08:03 PM

No...but he loved every moment of it!! :rotfl:
:lmao: Did Bill get a picture of that? :rotfl2:

It has been just wonderful so far!!

Kristine your pictures are making me want to stay at AKL again, I just love it there!

I did not order it....but I am pretty sure it is a turn down offering.

That is truly amazing! Do you mind my asking, is this something you ordered or had you just mentioned that it was your DD's bday and they sent it as a surprise? Either way, what I'm wondering is whether I could order it thru CL Cms for my daughter this summer :hippie:

I absolutely LOVE that view :cloud9: The lobby looks better than ever :thumbsup2

KristineN

06-02-2008, 08:04 PM

The kids did not really care for Boma....they did not eat enough to make it worth ever going back again. Bill and I both enjoyed it...not sure I would ever go back though.

My Emma is the worlds pickiest eater and I was really worried about going to Boma with her but she ate more here than any other meal last year. The mac & cheese wasn't that overly cheesy stuff they have at most places.

I really liked the Amber Ale!:drinking1

KristineN

06-02-2008, 08:06 PM

we are in a 2 bedroom.....

our 1st night was in a 1 bedroom (not concierge though)

So far I have found that the Concierge service here has been the best that I have experienced at WDW

Kristine, are you in a 1bdr or 2bdr? I'm now debating whether to try AKV with concierge for a future trip.

KristineN

06-02-2008, 08:07 PM

I do hope we will be able to run into each other!!

I'm loving the report. The pictures are fabulous. You guys look like you are having fun. We never did check our schedules to see if we'd be in any parks on the same day. We'll be there Friday!!!! Hope to catch up with you some place.

lovesdumbo

06-02-2008, 08:20 PM

The kids did not really care for Boma....they did not eat enough to make it worth ever going back again. Bill and I both enjoyed it...not sure I would ever go back though.That's too bad.

we are in a 2 bedroom.....

our 1st night was in a 1 bedroom (not concierge though)

So far I have found that the Concierge service here has been the best that I have experienced at WDWI've always heard great things about AKL Concierge. I'll have to try it someday!

yellowfish78

06-02-2008, 08:27 PM

Looks like you guys are having a blast! Tell me you're getting internet on the cruise! I don't think we'll be able to go 4 days with no pictures.
Concierge looks awesome and so does your room (at least the one bedroom).
Can't wait for more!

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-02-2008, 08:38 PM

tinknme

06-02-2008, 08:44 PM

Riley really enjoyed this! The cm's in the gift shop got to know Riley really well lol & on our last night the lady asked him to lead the parade. He was so tickled!

Every night at 7:50 they do a parade around the lobby...it was great, the kids got a big kick out of it.

my3princes

06-02-2008, 09:21 PM

AKV sounds wonderful. Nick just asked me on Saturday when we could stay there. It looks like I'll have to book our next WDW trip there.

ChristyJ

06-03-2008, 06:21 AM

Your trip sounds wonderful! My girls have asked about AKL, but we hadn't really thought too much about it before...are you using your car to go everywhere so far?

Keep the pictures & report coming! And continue to ENJOY!! :thumbsup2

KristineN

06-03-2008, 07:05 AM

so far we have used the car to go everywhere....with the GPS it has been a breeze!!

Off to wake up children....

heading to MGM (it will always be MGM to me ;))

marcij

06-03-2008, 07:35 AM

BTW...the wave pool at TL blew me on my a$$....I was sprawled out on the bottom like a dead fish :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

Isn't it the coolest! It made me nervous, though, because there were kids that were trying to run in to other people... the wave pool does that to guests without kids trying to make it worse. It sounds like Bill was a good sport on going to TL -- good for him.

so far we have used the car to go everywhere....with the GPS it has been a breeze!!

Off to wake up children....

heading to MGM (it will always be MGM to me ;))

I'm glad you and Bill liked Boma. I'm the only one in my family that really liked it -- Randy had mostly American food on the buffet, and my boys don't eat much anyway. I loved when we stayed there a few years ago that the animals kept my kids busy for almost the entire period (other than sleeping) when we were in the room, instead of them running cartoons or playing video games the entire time. They loved taking pictures and watching the animals. Are you guys trying Jiko?

yellowfish78

06-03-2008, 01:17 PM

http://www.spideysenses.com/wp-content/Picture%2071.png
OOOOoooooOOoOOhHHHhhhhHHHH!!!

Still alive Kristine? :teeth:

KristineN

06-03-2008, 02:21 PM

It must be 95 degrees here today...it is WAAAYY to hot for my liking.

Went to Studios today...it was listed as a "green day" on TGM....I found it to be a MAD HOUSE!!! We were there 15 minutes prior to opening.....we rode Tower of Terror, got fast passes for R & R coaster and then went to the new Toy Story ride. It was already a 30 minute wait at that point.....here's a pic from the line:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d3.jpg

We stood in line for 30 minutes, got on the ride, and 5 minutes into the ride got stranded on the ride for another30 minutes!!!:eek::eek: Finally they had to manually remove each person/car from the attraction. What a nightmare. Here are some pics from inside the ride:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d3b.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d3c.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d3d.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/d3a.jpg

The song from the ride is stuck in my brain as I heard it 500 times before they rescued us!!

Had lunch at 50's Prime Time...food was good. Our Cousin/Waiter was Mark. Christopher did not really enjoy the experience...Mark gave him a very hard time and after a while I could tell he had had enough. Guess he does not like this type of experience as he didn't like WCC last trip.

Tonight is a Wishes cruise..

Back later...

KristineN

06-03-2008, 02:24 PM

BTW...we never did make it back on the darn ride!!! They did give us fast passes for the ride that are good for 2 weeks....

tinknme

06-03-2008, 02:55 PM

Kristine glad you made it safely off the ride :rotfl: Thanks for the pictures, I am looking forward to this in August!

I don't think the temps are much better here, Sunday is forcasted for a high of 97 :eek:

I have Primetime book for a lunch in Aug., I am really debating on whether or not to cancel it. I want to try it, just not sure if any of us would like to be bothered :confused3

Enjoy the rest of your day!

ChristyJ

06-03-2008, 03:09 PM

Look on the bright side...it could have been Small World!:rotfl2: :rotfl:

yellowfish78

06-03-2008, 04:14 PM

Look on the bright side...it could have been Small World!:rotfl2: :rotfl:
...then you'd really be trapped because of the water! :faint:

HockeyMomR

06-03-2008, 04:25 PM

Sorry about the news of the Toy Story ride, we are really looking forward to this new ride at DHS. Hope you have another chance to ride w/ no problems! :thumbsup2

Look on the bright side...it could have been Small World!:rotfl2: :rotfl:

I can't even imagine! :scared1:

triplefigs

06-03-2008, 05:18 PM

Kristine, hope the cruise is fun tonight!

lovesdumbo

06-03-2008, 05:57 PM

Sorry the kids didn't care for Boma! We usually have dinner there once each trip. It's not DS's favorite, but then again, he never eats anything no matter where we go!

I am getting excited about our paltry 3 nights of concierge! :rotfl:

Hey, Bernadette! You can book AKL concierge next August! We can be neighbors!
You could get a 2BR on points and we could stay with you!:laughing:

BTW...we never did make it back on the darn ride!!! They did give us fast passes for the ride that are good for 2 weeks....How was it other than being stuck on it forever????

...then you'd really be trapped because of the water! :faint:That water isn't that deep.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-03-2008, 06:10 PM

Kristine - Glad you escaped the clutches of the Little Green Men! :thumbsup2

...then you'd really be trapped because of the water! :faint:

The water's not that deep. And even if it was deep, I can swim! :rotfl:

You could get a 2BR on points and we could stay with you!:laughing:

How was it other than being stuck on it forever????

That water isn't that deep.

Sure - we could live large for 3 whole nights before I ran out of points! :lmao:
I see you agree about the water in Small World! ::yes:: :rotfl2:

yellowfish78

06-03-2008, 07:01 PM

You could get a 2BR on points and we could stay with you!:laughing:

How was it other than being stuck on it forever????

That water isn't that deep.
You guys are no fun. ;) That water looks nasty sometimes...

KristineN

06-03-2008, 07:23 PM

really? so far my mother has been telling me it has been cool in Chicago....that will be quite the change

I think it depends on your personality...Bill & I liked it...Chris hates that kind of stuff....not sure what I was thinking

Kristine glad you made it safely off the ride :rotfl: Thanks for the pictures, I am looking forward to this in August!

I don't think the temps are much better here, Sunday is forcasted for a high of 97 :eek:

I have Primetime book for a lunch in Aug., I am really debating on whether or not to cancel it. I want to try it, just not sure if any of us would like to be bothered :confused3

Enjoy the rest of your day!

true :rotfl:

Look on the bright side...it could have been Small World!:rotfl2: :rotfl:

not sure if it will be going off...it has been storming for a couple of hours now

Kristine, hope the cruise is fun tonight!

KristineN

06-03-2008, 08:15 PM

couple of more pictures:

towels animals from today's maid service. The ladies who do the rooms have been fantastic....Esther is a real gem!!!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family094.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family093.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family095.jpg

sitting in the lounge while they were doing turn down service in our room:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family097.jpg

KristineN

06-03-2008, 08:18 PM

The fireworks cruise has been officially cancelled...it has been storming for hours...

Stay Tuned…

Coming up tomorrow

Kirsten’s official 9th Birthday!!!

Sleeping In

Shopping at DTD

Chef Mickey’s Dinner

Pirate & Princess Party

tinknme

06-03-2008, 08:33 PM

Kristine sorry the cruise was canceled!

Tammi67

06-03-2008, 08:35 PM

BTW...we never did make it back on the darn ride!!! They did give us fast passes for the ride that are good for 2 weeks....
Is the new Woody ride fast pass equipped?

tinknme

06-03-2008, 08:38 PM

Not sure why, but this statement made me :rotfl:

Is the new Woody ride fast pass equipped?

Tammi67

06-03-2008, 08:39 PM

Kristine sorry the cruise was canceled!
That's too bad.

KristineN

06-03-2008, 08:40 PM

yes it is....I was surprised by 9:30 am there was already over a 30 minute wait....

Is the new Woody ride fast pass equipped?

KristineN

06-03-2008, 08:42 PM

for those who asked about the ride....it was enjoyable. Not sure if I would get emotional over the ride..it basically buzz light year with 3 d glasses...4 people to a car, 2 in front, 2 in back facing the opposite direction

johnsonet

06-03-2008, 08:55 PM

Sorry about your Wishes cruise :( Will you be able to re-schedule?

I enjoyed seeing the bottle of Rosa Regale in the background of one of your towel animal photos :)

Your kids' tshirts look great!

Have fun~

KristineN

06-03-2008, 09:09 PM

One of my favorite wines....I need to open that soon!! :rotfl:

It doesn't look like we will be able to reschedule it....Oh well.

Sorry about your Wishes cruise :( Will you be able to re-schedule?

I enjoyed seeing the bottle of Rosa Regale in the background of one of your towel animal photos :)

Your kids' tshirts look great!

Have fun~

my3princes

06-03-2008, 09:51 PM

Happy Birthday Kirsten

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/63925Untitled_-_1.jpg

tinker1bell

06-03-2008, 10:06 PM

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c302/tinker1bell/amaz_hp_dis.jpg

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIRSTEN

Diamondintheruff

06-03-2008, 10:38 PM

Really enjoying your "live reports". So sorry about your cruise. Here's hoping the P&PP makes up for it.

MrsHeg

06-04-2008, 05:09 AM

Happy Birthday Kirsten

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/63925Untitled_-_1.jpg

Happy Birthday Kirsten!

ChristyJ

06-04-2008, 06:25 AM

Happy Birthday Kirsten!

party: :bday: party:

yellowfish78

06-04-2008, 06:44 AM

http://bestsmileys.com/ballons/4.gif
Happy Birthday Kirsten!!!

tinknme

06-04-2008, 07:33 AM

http://bestsmileys.com/ballons/4.gif
Happy Birthday Kirsten!!!

Hope you have a wonderful day!

marcij

06-04-2008, 07:35 AM

party: party: Happy Birthday Kirsten! party: party:

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-04-2008, 07:51 AM

Happy Birthday, Kirsten!!

:dance3: :bday: :dance3:

triplefigs

06-04-2008, 09:44 AM

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b175/DenisePersonal/hbirth6.gif

Happy 9th Birthday, Kirsten!

KristineN

06-04-2008, 09:48 AM

Thanks for the bday wishes for Kirsten....she got a big kick out of them.

We slept in this morning.....there was a knock on the door, Bill & I were dead to the world I guess...so luckily Chris aswered the door.

There was the cutest little gift for Kirsten...It was a bag with leopard tissue paper and inside was safari Minnie & a bday card. I was surprised!! I had only expected a card.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family098.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family101.jpg

Opening this stuff we gave her:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family102.jpg

KristineN

06-04-2008, 09:50 AM

We are heading to DTD for a couple of hours.....

Chef Mickeys for Dinner....and then the P& P party

Back later!

triplefigs

06-04-2008, 09:54 AM

We are heading to DTD for a couple of hours.....

Chef Mickeys for Dinner....and then the P& P party

Back later! Have fun!:cool1:

Steamboat Marti

06-04-2008, 09:59 AM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

KIRSTEN

:bday:

party:

Have a great day.

yellowfish78

06-04-2008, 12:35 PM

I hope you guys are still having a blast!!!

Tammi67

06-04-2008, 01:10 PM

Happy 9th Birthday, Kirsten!!!!!!

http://bestsmileys.com/ballons/4.gif

Happy Birthday Kirsten!!!

KristineN

06-04-2008, 03:28 PM

Hanging in the lounge:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family106.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family105.jpg

I ordered a cake for Kirsten through Concierge...I did not chose anything. The picked out a Zebra cake....it was a white cake, and it had whipped cream and a filling...I am not sure what the filling was (I need to ask) but it was strangely one of the best cakes i have had!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family109.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family114.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family113.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family117.jpg

KristineN

06-04-2008, 03:30 PM

It is 93 here today with a real feel temperature of 104 :scared1::scared1: It is an intense heat that's for sure....

crowds are picking up...

I will be interested to see the crowd for the P & P party...check back later

Laurabearz

06-04-2008, 03:48 PM

Have fun at the party tonight!

triplefigs

06-04-2008, 04:08 PM

Have fun at CM tonight! If you're going there, they have good shopping on the Concourse level at the new store, and I don't know if you'll need to go to the Poly to check for the items you mentioned.

triplefigs

06-04-2008, 04:09 PM

Kristine, what Cat do you have for the cruise? It's a 4 day, right?

Mommy2EmMoLu

06-04-2008, 07:01 PM

http://www.testriffic.com/resultfiles/6497Minnie-Mouse.jpg

Happy 9th Birthday Kirsten!!!

Steamboat Marti

06-04-2008, 08:27 PM

http://www.testriffic.com/resultfiles/6497Minnie-Mouse.jpg

Happy 9th Birthday Kirsten!!!

Ohhhh I really love that Minnie Robyn!

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-04-2008, 08:30 PM

Mmmmm! CAKE! :hyper:
But not quite as good as the cake you had for YOUR birthday, which is hopefully the same kind of cake concierge will have for MY birthday! :banana: That's what they are SUPPOSED to do.
Glad you got the zebra cake as requested! Kirsten looks pretty happy!

That weather sounds like ours, only we have 30-40 mph winds. It's like being in front of a giant hairdryer when we step outside. Enjoy the party!! :dance3:

Tammi67

06-04-2008, 10:24 PM

That cakes looks DELICIOUS! I want some!

Diamondintheruff

06-04-2008, 11:04 PM

I could use a piece of that cake right now.

Hope the P&PP went well for you.

KristineN

06-04-2008, 11:13 PM

Back from Chef Mickey's & the P & P Party...

Had fun at Chef Mickey's.....kids enjoyed it. Food was OK...not spectacular, but then again I wasn't expecting it to be.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/cm.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/cm3-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/cm2-1.jpg

Very much enjoyed the Pirate & Princess party. I was pleasantly surprised at the low crowd level. After the extreme crowds of the MVMCP, I was very apprehensive. Except for Dumbo & Space Mountain, we walked onto everything else...even those other two previously mentioned were about 15 minutes. I thought the fireworks were spectacular. The parade was so-so....maybe we are not parade pepople :confused3 I think the haloween party parade was much better.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/cm4.jpg

Stay tuned...

Coming up tomorrow:

Sunrise Safari

La Nouba

mmmears

06-04-2008, 11:37 PM

KristineN,

I just found your TR -- it's great! I especially like all the photos of your family enjoying AKL -- and those T-shirts you are all wearing are awesome! I'll be waiting for more of your posts -- thank you for sharing your trip!:)

KristineN

06-05-2008, 05:58 AM

5:45 AM SURE COMES EARLY!!:faint::faint:

Checking in at the concierge desk and then we will be off for our sunrise safari!!

I will check back later...

poohmomof5

06-05-2008, 05:59 AM

5:45 AM SURE COMES EARLY!!:faint::faint:

Checking in at the concierge desk and then we will be off for our sunrise safari!!

I will check back later...

I was just thinking that it seemed like you had an awful lot of things packed in and events that kept you up late right before an event that got you up super early. I hope you can take a nap this afternoon!

yellowfish78

06-05-2008, 07:18 AM

Kristine that cake looks heavenly!!! Have fun (again!) today!!!

my3princes

06-05-2008, 08:31 AM

I'm glad you enjoyed the P &PP. I can't wait to hear about the Sunrise Safari. I'm sure Elizabeth is waiting to hear too :goodvibes

tinknme

06-05-2008, 08:38 AM

Glad to hear you all enjoyed the P&PP, I was so hoping they would have some in August.

Look forward to hearing about the sunrise safari!

Tammi67

06-05-2008, 09:05 AM

Love the P&PP shirts. Have another great day!

Imagoofy1

06-05-2008, 09:19 AM

Glad you are all having a great time. The shirts all look great.

bethbuchall

06-05-2008, 11:18 AM

Sorry this is late!

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a190/bethbuchall/Kirstenbday.gif

Hanging in the lounge:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/th_family106.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/th_family105.jpg

Miles has that same shirt that Christopher is wearing.

I am really enjoying your trip report!

Disneysoloist

06-05-2008, 11:41 AM

Wow, you guys are really doing it up!! Have a great rest-of-your-trip!! :cool1:

MickeyNicki

06-05-2008, 12:58 PM

Thank you so much for posting this report! We are staying there CL for my b-day in Oct for 4 nights! Yay we are super excited because we have never stayed there before. I booked the Sunrise Safari so please tell me all about it and for DH, tell me about the food afterwards!

Also, can you give me a detailed list of the breakfast offerings in the CL lounge? It will help me out with plans so much!

Thanks and have a fantastic time!!

KristineN

06-05-2008, 02:37 PM

Bill & I just got up from a nap...the kids went to the pool....no clue where they get the energy. Although Christopher is CRANKY now

I was just thinking that it seemed like you had an awful lot of things packed in and events that kept you up late right before an event that got you up super early. I hope you can take a nap this afternoon!

Breakfast:

2 or 3 cold cereal options

oatmeal & another hot cereal

bagels & cream cheese

cinnamon rolls

other sweet rolls

mini muffins

assorted fruits

coffee

juices

other stuff...I will pay attention tomorrow morning :)

Thank you so much for posting this report! We are staying there CL for my b-day in Oct for 4 nights! Yay we are super excited because we have never stayed there before. I booked the Sunrise Safari so please tell me all about it and for DH, tell me about the food afterwards!

Also, can you give me a detailed list of the breakfast offerings in the CL lounge? It will help me out with plans so much!

Thanks and have a fantastic time!!

John's Mom

06-05-2008, 02:39 PM

KristineN

06-05-2008, 02:41 PM

Back from the Sunrise Safari....this is a short synopsis:

check in at the concierge desk at 6:45...they scan your park passes at this time

meet in the lobby by 7:15

get on the bus at 7:30

arrive at animal kingdom at 7:45

get on the safari at 8:00

get off the safari about 9:15

head over to pizza-safari and eat a buffet breakfast

afterwords you can either take the bus back to the lodge or stay and go on rides.

Breakfast Included:

scrambled eggs

omelet w/veggie & ground meat

french toast

bacon

sausage patties

biscuits & gravy

a spicy sausage

apple cobbler

hash browns

assorted breads & pastries

other stuff too...I just can't remember :)

The food was excellent.

Regarding the actual safari:

we definitely saw a lot of animals:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family128.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family129.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family133.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family135.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family136.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family139.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family140.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family143.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family145.jpg

I can't decide if it was worth the $275 that I paid for the 5 of us to go. Again, I enjoyed it....but I am not sure I enjoyed it that much. I will have to ponder it. I also have the Sunset Safari booked, so it will be interesting to compare the two. Again, it was good...just can't decide if it was worth it for US...it seems like most people LOVE this event...I did definitely enjoy this more than the Grand Gathering Safari event.

KristineN

06-05-2008, 02:42 PM

Waiting for us when we got back

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family147.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family148.jpg

KristineN

06-05-2008, 04:14 PM

Heading to La Nouba....

The kids decided they want to go back to Typhoon Lagoon...so tomorrow we will go back there, followed by the Sunset Safari

johnsonet

06-05-2008, 04:25 PM

You are doing SO many fun things!! I can't wait to see and hear how you like the Wanyama Safari - I loved it! The Sunrise Safari breakfast that I had in Tusker House in 2003 or maybe 2004 was much more elaborate than what you described... wonder if they changed the offerings when they changed the venue. It was SO special when we did it.

Sunset Safari is w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l!! Enjoy!

pmama

06-05-2008, 06:39 PM

Just wanted to pop you a note to say I've been reading your posts from the beginning and love the live updates. Thanks so much for taking the time to let us share in the magic!:thumbsup2

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-05-2008, 07:15 PM

Heading to La Nouba....

The kids decided they want to go back to Typhoon Lagoon...so tomorrow we will go back there, followed by the Sunset Safari

La Nouba is AMAZING! The kids will love it. DS was mesmerized.

I like the safari pics! Especially the hippos! We NEVER see the hippos! I think we will really like the safari. It also won't cost me $275 since there are only 3 of us, so that may skew my opinion. ;)

Another water park day, huh? Hmm. Have fun!! :cool1:

MickeyNicki

06-05-2008, 08:09 PM

Here are some recent food pics from the AKL Lounge. Check out Post #1894.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1636333&page=127

Thanks so much for this! I appreciate it more than you know! ;)

lovesdumbo

06-05-2008, 11:23 PM

I ordered a cake for Kirsten through Concierge...I did not chose anything. The picked out a Zebra cake....it was a white cake, and it had whipped cream and a filling...I am not sure what the filling was (I need to ask) but it was strangely one of the best cakes i have had!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family109.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family114.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family113.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family117.jpg
That cake looks awesome!!!

KristineN

06-06-2008, 03:01 PM

Had another great time at Typhoon Lagoon!! Unfortunately I sunburned my back!! :(

This guy was hanging from our balcony....the kids got a big kick out of it. Plus a couple of other creatures...

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family149.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family150.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family151.jpg

Heading out to the Sunset Safari...I will report back after.

HockeyMomR

06-06-2008, 04:35 PM

Had another great time at Typhoon Lagoon!! Unfortunately I sunburned my back!! :(

This guy was hanging from our balcony....the kids got a big kick out of it. Plus a couple of other creatures...

Heading out to the Sunset Safari...I will report back after.

Love your TR! Glad to hear Typhoon Lagoon was great as usual, we just added an extra day at beginning of our trip to hit the evening EMH there on Sat. July 19!

Love the towel animals and can't wait to hear all about the Sunset Safari.

Tammi67

06-06-2008, 06:37 PM

Kristine, are the sunrise/sunset safari rides on the same track as the regular safari that anyone can ride, or are they 'off the beaten path'?

tinknme

06-06-2008, 07:47 PM

We had one of these guys hanging around in our room as well!

Sorry about the sunburn, did you bring any aloe? Hope you enjoy the safari!

Had another great time at Typhoon Lagoon!! Unfortunately I sunburned my back!! :(

This guy was hanging from our balcony....the kids got a big kick out of it. Plus a couple of other creatures...

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family149.jpg

KristineN

06-06-2008, 08:29 PM

By FAR one of the BEST and I mean best experiences we have had was the Sunset/Wanyama Safari!!!!!!! If you have the chance to do this and are willing to spend the money....I can't recommend this enough!!!

We checked in at the Podium at Jiko at 3:45. The tour is a maximum of 14 people. Our tour had 12....

We departed on the tour at 4:00...the tour ended at 5:45.

We then ate together at Jiko...the food was served family style....and was very good. They also served 3 different wines with he meal.

I was absolutely amazed by how close the animals came to us. The giraffes, zebra and ostriches were poking their heads in our truck!!

Heading out to our truck:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family154.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family155.jpg

First giraffe we saw:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family158.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family160.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family162.jpg

other animals we saw

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family168.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family197.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family196.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family191.jpg

Next giraffe we saw...I could have touched him

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family186.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family184.jpg

Baby zebra

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family170.jpg

This ostrich kept sticking his head between the bars of the truck:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family171.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family176.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family174.jpg

Giraffe family:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family165.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family163.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family162.jpg

mommykds

06-06-2008, 08:33 PM

Wow!! How cool!

KristineN

06-06-2008, 08:35 PM

the sunrise safari is at Animal Kingdom and is in the same vehicle as the regular ride. It follows the same path...but because it is so early, you see more animals...the keepers put food out so many of the animals are eating out in the open. The vehicle also stops frequently to allow you to take pictures.

The sunset safari is at the lodge....and you take a truck out to the various savanahs...you are VERY close to the animals

Kristine, are the sunrise/sunset safari rides on the same track as the regular safari that anyone can ride, or are they 'off the beaten path'?

yellowfish78

06-06-2008, 08:36 PM

Those are some awesome photos! This makes me want to spend a night at AK - just for this and how close you guys were to the animals!

tinknme

06-06-2008, 08:38 PM

Awesome Kristine!

Steamboat Marti

06-06-2008, 08:38 PM

Really cool Kristine! What did you think of the food at Jiko?

Tammi67

06-06-2008, 08:43 PM

the sunrise safari is at Animal Kingdom and is in the same vehicle as the regular ride. It follows the same path...but because it is so early, you see more animals...the keepers put food out so many of the animals are eating out in the open. The vehicle also stops frequently to allow you to take pictures.

The sunset safari is at the lodge....and you take a truck out to the various savanahs...you are VERY close to the animals
Thanks for the explanation. You got some great photos. Love the close-ups of the giraffe.

Tammi67

06-06-2008, 08:44 PM

Where are you off to tomorrow?

KristineN

06-06-2008, 09:16 PM

heading to Sea World....I haven't told the kids that I set up a VIP tour there....so it should be interesting.

Where are you off to tomorrow?

my3princes

06-06-2008, 10:40 PM

What an amazing experience. I can't imagine that you'll ever be able to top this trip :worship: :worship: I want to be one of your kids...please....

babytrees

06-06-2008, 11:02 PM

What an amazing experience. I can't imagine that you'll ever be able to top this trip :worship: :worship: I want to be one of your kids...please....

me,me, me...pick me to be one of yours too!!! PLEASE!!:hyper:

Thanks for your explanation of the safaris.....you helped Cassidy pick which one she wants to do!!:goodvibes

KMH1

06-07-2008, 07:05 AM

Wow, great pictures from the sunset safari! Is it more expensive than the sunrise version since it's dinner?

Have fun at Sea World. Don't let the kids talk you into sitting in the splash zone. ;)

KristineN

06-07-2008, 07:33 AM

it's about double the cost I'd say......the experience is just so different from the sunrise option ...of course I could have been satisfied with just the safari part. The dinner part alone was 2 hours long!! :eek: My kids amazingly well, borderline perfect....we sat with a newlywed couple who was quite entertaining....but there was virtually no good food choices for them. I did make them bring out mac & cheese so there would be something.

Wow, great pictures from the sunset safari! Is it more expensive than the sunrise version since it's dinner?

Have fun at Sea World. Don't let the kids talk you into sitting in the splash zone. ;)

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-07-2008, 08:11 AM

Kristine, Love the giraffe! But the ostrich is enough to convince me NOT to do the Sunset! :rotfl: I don't like birds. And DS wouldn't be happy with Jiko. We have been there before and were just sort of "eh" about it. I booked it for August but then I cancelled it and booked Narcoosee's instead.

Have fun at Sea World!

DisneyVeteran

06-07-2008, 10:07 AM

What a great experience for your kids!! How will you ever be able to top this disney vacation!

lovesdumbo

06-07-2008, 01:16 PM

What an amazing experience. I can't imagine that you'll ever be able to top this trip :worship: :worship: I want to be one of your kids...please....

me too...only I'd have to be your older sister...

What wonderful experiences you are having!!!

yellowfish78

06-07-2008, 01:27 PM

I hope you're having fun at Sea World! There's one roller coaster in the back that I loved when I was there years ago...

KristineN

06-07-2008, 07:21 PM

Back from Sea World where we did a VIP tour...the tour itself was 7 hours long!! ::yes::::yes:: Needless to say, Bill & I are pooped!! But we did have a wonderful time. There were only 12 people in our group and we enjoyed getting to know them.

We checked in for our tour at 9:45 am and by 10 we were on the way...

The tour took you behind the scenes of certain attractions, you got front of the line access on everything and reserved seating for the shows. It also included a buffet lunch along side of the pools used for the Shamu show.

These shots are from the beginning of the tour....Christopher as always wants to be by the guide...

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family242.jpg

Kirsten has decided she wants to be a marine biologist :rotfl:she really enjoyed the killer whales

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family213.jpg

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They took our group back and we were each able to touch a baby penguin

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family235.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family237.jpg

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http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family239.jpg

We were given fish to feed the sting rays:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family245.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family244.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family246.jpg

We had a buffet lunch behind the Shamu show area...these shots were actually taken from our lunch table...we were EXTREMELY close to the whales:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family222.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family225.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family227.jpg

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http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family229.jpg

After lunch we went and saw the Shamu show...we had reserved seating in an upper area and in a splash zone. Of course my kids wanted to be in the splash zone....and as always Bill & I ended up the wettest!! :rotfl:I was literally dripping wet!!

We then went to the Dolphin area we were given fish to feed them. This was a lot of fun...the kids really enjoyed this.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family247.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family248.jpg

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http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family251.jpg

we went to the Sea Lion show...it was very cute, lots of laughs. We then went to the front of the line and rode Atlantis (a water ride) and The Kraken, which was a NASTY looking roller coaster. Chris & Jackie went on and reported back that it was good.

By now we were all fried out it was around 5:30...and we left to come back to AKV.

KristineN

06-07-2008, 07:28 PM

we did not order off the menu...this meal was served family style. It was pretty good....kids did not really like.
First different breads were served..some were fairly spicy

next was a plate of different appetizers...nothing kid friendly (at least my kids) there was a 3 cheese (incl goat cheese) tamale (I liked this) a rare tuna appetizer (none of us ate that) some kind of lentil dish in phyllo (I liked it) no one else did ...a lamb roll up type of deal (good)

dinner was halibut (I don't eat too much fish, so unsure how that was) filet & mac & cheese (both quite good) some kind of chicken...3 of us liked it, Chris & Kirsten did not.

So I guess in answer to your question...I would not go with my kids...I would go back with just Bill

Really cool Kristine! What did you think of the food at Jiko?

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-07-2008, 07:45 PM

Sounds like a great day at Sea World! :thumbsup2

lovesdumbo

06-07-2008, 09:23 PM

By now we were all fried out it was around 5:30...and we left to come back to AKV.

WOW! What a day! Emma would love touching a penguin!

ReAnSt

06-07-2008, 09:32 PM

the sunrise safari is at Animal Kingdom and is in the same vehicle as the regular ride. It follows the same path...but because it is so early, you see more animals...the keepers put food out so many of the animals are eating out in the open. The vehicle also stops frequently to allow you to take pictures.

The sunset safari is at the lodge....and you take a truck out to the various savanahs...you are VERY close to the animals

But if Animal Kingdom has early entry hours and you head straight to the Safari, you will be earlier or at the same time as the Sunrise safari. As we followed directly behind the sunrise safari group the one time at AK. There were other groups who were in the safari before the Sunrise group.

ReAnSt

06-07-2008, 09:48 PM

WOW! What a day! Emma would love touching a penguin!

You can touch a penguin by just taking the Polar Expedition tour. You can touch a shark if you take the Predators tour. You can feed the birds in the Saving a Species tour. These tours range from $8-12 for a child and $12 to $18 for an adult.

You can check out the special tours at on the website here. (http://seaworld.com/orlando/experiences/default.aspx) A lot of things offered in these tours like feeding dolphins you can do without the tour. But they have an area roped off for this with the tour.

I want to do the shark encounter tour or the trainer for the day tour. Then again I still would love to be a Marine biologist or dolphin trainer.

ChristyJ

06-07-2008, 10:38 PM

Kristine, looks like a fantastic day! Keep it all coming...

KristineN

06-08-2008, 07:18 AM

couldn't tell you...I am not sure if the offer the sunrise everyday...maybe they do it on off early entry days

But if Animal Kingdom has early entry hours and you head straight to the Safari, you will be earlier or at the same time as the Sunrise safari. As we followed directly behind the sunrise safari group the one time at AK. There were other groups who were in the safari before the Sunrise group.

KristineN

06-08-2008, 07:20 AM

for us who most likely will no be going back to Sea World it made both time & economic sense to to the tour. I found it refreshing not having to worry about where I was going and having to map out everything in advance....it was nice to have someone else in charge of the day....but, different strokes for different folks...

You can touch a penguin by just taking the Polar Expedition tour. You can touch a shark if you take the Predators tour. You can feed the birds in the Saving a Species tour. These tours range from $8-12 for a child and $12 to $18 for an adult.

You can check out the special tours at on the website here. (http://seaworld.com/orlando/experiences/default.aspx) A lot of things offered in these tours like feeding dolphins you can do without the tour. But they have an area roped off for this with the tour.

I want to do the shark encounter tour or the trainer for the day tour. Then again I still would love to be a Marine biologist or dolphin trainer.

yellowfish78

06-08-2008, 07:42 AM

we went to the Sea Lion show...it was very cute, lots of laughs. We then went to the front of the line and rode Atlantis (a water ride) and The Kraken, which was a NASTY looking roller coaster. Chris & Jackie went on and reported back that it was good.

Kraken! That was it! I rode that thing like three times in a row! :faint:
Another wonderful day for you and your family! Where you off to next? :teeth:

tinknme

06-08-2008, 07:44 AM

Kristine sounds like you had a wonderful day at Sea World!

So what's up for today :)

tinknme

06-08-2008, 07:45 AM

Where you off to next? :teeth:

So what's up for today :)

I see we are thinking alike :rotfl:

KristineN

06-08-2008, 07:46 AM

Heading to Magic Kingdom

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-08-2008, 08:39 AM

couldn't tell you...I am not sure if the offer the sunrise everyday...maybe they do it on off early entry days

Sunrsie Safari is Sunday & Thursday only. Looks like early entry is NOT scheduled for those days.

Heading to Magic Kingdom

Yay! My favorite! :banana:

yellowfish78

06-08-2008, 01:48 PM

Heading to Magic Kingdom
Can't wait for photos!

ChristyJ

06-08-2008, 04:28 PM

Kristine, I think the tour sounds like an amazing way to do it up! Enjoy Magic Kingdom-have a Dole Whip float to fight the heat!

arielchickenofthesea

06-08-2008, 06:37 PM

Hope you are having a great time at MK! I so want to be back at WDW! I have been enjoying your TR. Great pics and report. We almost did Seaworld this last trip in May, but we will do it next year. That tour sounds like just the thing.

Another great tour is at Animal Kingdom. The backstage Animal Kingdom tour is so interesting. And we did the Dolphins in Depth at Epcot. THAT was one of the most fun things I've ever done! I liked it a LOT and we had done Discovery Cove a couple years ago. I would do the Doplphins in Depth again instead of going back to Discovery Cove for a whole Day. You get a LOT of Dolphin interaction at Epcot's tour.

I like the looks of that Sunset Safari. I want to do that!!!! Those giraffes are so cute and SOOOOOOOO close! WOW! We are going to have to stay concierge at the AKL. Definitely!!! Enjoy the rest of the trip! Looks like you are having a great time!

arielchickenofthesea

KristineN

06-08-2008, 09:25 PM

Hi everyone!!

Today we went to Magic Kingdom.....we decided to do a guided tour in hopes of maximizing time. On my friend Marci's recommendation, we chose a VIP guide by the name of Jeff S. (Thanks Marci!!) He was very good and the kids liked him a lot....especially Kirsten who rode Big Thunder with him. (She NEVER goes on that :rotfl:)

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family262.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family266.jpg

Jeff ran around getting fast passes for us, so we virtually rode every ride with little or no wait. The tour was from 9 am until 3 pm.....the tour concluded with a special seating area to watch the parade. We usually never stay and watch the parade so that was a nice treat.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family268.jpg

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We ran into a friend Vicki and her family in line at Dumbo!!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family297.jpg

Because we are crazy obsessed with doing one thing after another....we decided to surprise the kids with tickets to...BLUE MAN GROUP!!

I almost had to call up Chanon to get help figure out the lay of the land over there at City Walk by Universal Studios. My god, there was a ton of people and that place is HUGE!!! Kids definitely got a kick out of the show and it was worth doing. Amazing how entertaining rolls of what looks like toilet paper can be!! :rotfl:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family295.jpg

Look who was in the kids' bathroom...

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family296.jpg

Stay Tuned....

Coming up tomorrow...

We are doing a 1 day / 2 park guided tour over at Universal!!

my3princes

06-08-2008, 09:33 PM

Tammi67

06-08-2008, 09:42 PM

Kristine - you got some great parade photos. I'm going to have to look into pricing that MK guided tour. Might be a good thing to do in December when we can split it amongst the families.

tinknme

06-08-2008, 10:37 PM

Kristine will you adopt me :teeth:

You are making some wonderful memories with your family! So glad to hear you are all having such a good time.

PNO4TE

06-08-2008, 10:55 PM

I finally had a chance to read your TR, Kristine. Sounds as if you are all having a trip of a lifetime. Thanks for sharing it with us!

JoanieS

06-08-2008, 11:21 PM

Subbing :)

Looks like you are having a great time!

lovesdumbo

06-08-2008, 11:38 PM

He was very good and the kids liked him a lot....especially Kirsten who rode Big Thunder with him. (She NEVER goes on that :rotfl:):love:

qv09vvp

06-09-2008, 12:05 AM

Loving your trip report! keep it coming!

yellowfish78

06-09-2008, 07:09 AM

OMG! This is a great photo of the family too! And all I see is that long sleeve shirt on your guide! :faint: I don't know how they do it! :faint:
I have a new avitar!!! Your Goofy photo is awesome!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family266.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family293.jpg

We are doing a 1 day / 2 park guided tour over at Universal!!

Have a blast at Universal! You'll love it! It's not *that* large, just a long walk from the parking lot! :rotfl: Let me know where you guys decide to eat dinner (or if you need a suggestion! If you eat the parks, the ONLY place to eat is Mythos...outside the park - anywhere that looks good. :rotfl: )
Have fun!!!

KristineN

06-09-2008, 07:13 AM

you are not kidding....that walk from the parking lot was a killer. I just was reading the paperwork for the tour this morning...and it includes valet parking!!:cool1: It must be closer (I hope)

OMG! This is a great photo of the family too! And all I see is that long sleeve shirt on your guide! :faint: I don't know how they do it! :faint:
I have a new avitar!!! Your Goofy photo is awesome!

Have a blast at Universal! You'll love it! It's not *that* large, just a long walk from the parking lot! :rotfl: Let me know where you guys decide to eat dinner (or if you need a suggestion! If you eat the parks, the ONLY place to eat is Mythos...outside the park - anywhere that looks good. :rotfl: )
Have fun!!!

NewCrew42

06-09-2008, 08:01 AM

What an awesome trip you guys are having. Thanks for reporting! :thumbsup2

arielchickenofthesea

06-09-2008, 08:51 AM

WOW! You are an amazing photog! Your pics are so wonderful! I love the Goofy pic as well. Course I love Goofy! That is an awesome picture!
I want to do the tour guide deal sometime. I really want to do it because of the firework reserved seating. hahaha...But it sounds like a great way to do MK, have a guide to get the FP for you and all.

AND Blue Man Group?????:hyper: I so wanted to see them. We went to Citywalk when we were there in May, but it was early in the day and being in a wheelchair makes it hard to stay a whole day anywhere. Next time, we go to CityWalk later in the day and stay for the show. We ate at Margaritaville and the Cheeseburger in Paradise WAS a paradise cheseburger!

I cannot wait to hear your take on Blue Man Group! They are so great! Looking forward to more pics and report! This is a FUN TR!:thumbsup2 Yes, indeedy, it is!!!:yay: Really makes me wish I was still there!
arielchickenofthesea

triplefigs

06-09-2008, 09:52 AM

Have fun today, Kristine. I'm going to have a lot of questions about tours when you get back!

blueeyesrnc

06-09-2008, 10:06 AM

What an amazing vacation you are having. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Love the pics.

Imagoofy1

06-09-2008, 03:19 PM

Wonderful TR and beautiful pictures. Glad to see you all having such a good time. I can't wait til Setember for our trip. But til then I will enjoy looking at your pics and DREAMING of our upcoming trip. HAVE FUN. Looking forward to seeing more pictures of your trip and hearing about your magical vacation fun.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-09-2008, 04:31 PM

Sounds like another great day, Kristine! :goodvibes

yellowfish78

06-09-2008, 06:27 PM

Sounds like another great day, Kristine! :goodvibes
Kristine at the rate you're going, you'll have another 143 "children" to take on your next trip! :rotfl:
You should be just about done with Universal - can't wait to see pictures!

KristineN

06-09-2008, 06:29 PM

Hi everyone...

Back from our VIP tour a Universal. We did the 1 day/2 park tour. This is a short synopsis:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family313.jpg

we checked in at 9:30 am...at this point we were given bottles of water and/or coffee

we left on our tour at 10 am. There were 7 of us, our 5 & David & Gavin from England. Very nice guys...Christopher loved both of the guys. This tour can have up to 12 people. Our tour guide was Chris....she has worked for Universal for 18 years!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family307.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family308.jpg

Unlike the WDW VIP tours that use mostly the fast pass system...this tour took us through the back door for EVERY single attraction. We bypassed ALL lines and immediately got on each ride.

Islands of Adventure: Rides we did & my thoughts (hope it doesn't bore you)

Incredible Hulk Coaster
2 kids & David & Gavin went on this ride...big thumbs up from all

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family299.jpg

Doctor Doom's Fearfall
everyone except Kirsten rode this....thumb up from all of us. Bill wanted to go on again!!

Storm Force Acceleration (basically like the teacup ride at WDW)
3 kids went on & liked it

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family300.jpg

Amazing Adventures of Spiderman
everone except me (Chanon will think I am a wimp) liked this ride. I do not care for simmulation rides...and I had to close my eyes at the end

Jurassic Park River Adventure (like Splash Mountain)
everyone like it....we didn't get too wet

Jurrasic Park Discovery Center
a place that had a bunch of bones

Mystic Fountain
a fountian that talked to you by name...kids got a kick out of it

Dueling Dragons
everyone except Bill & I rode this twice...and they all loved it

The Flying Unicorn
a very short coaster....we all rode it. Everyone except Kirsten thought it was a waste of time

Caro-Suesss-el
we all rode this....everyone except Kirsten thought it was BORING!!

Cat in the Hat
everyone rode...Bill & I did not like it.

MISC. PICS

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family301.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family302.jpg

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At this point our group ate at Mythos...it was good and I would eat there again.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family305.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family306.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family298.jpg

After lunch we went to the Universal Studios part

Jimmy Nuetron's Nicktoon Blast
everyone rode...by far one of the WORST rides I have been on in my life!!!! I broke out in the Lord's Prayer that I would not vomit on this ride. It is a simulator that shakes so much it was horrible. David (the dad from England) did not like it either....everyone else was fine with it.

Shrek 4-D
cute entertaining 4 d movie

ET Adventure
calm ride theat everyone rode and enjoyed

The Simpsons
AFter the last simulation ride David & I chose not to go on this. Bill got off and informed me that this ride shaved off a year of his life!!!!!! He HATED it! Gavin (son from England) thought it was very rough. All 3 of my kids loved it!! :rotfl:

Disaster
show/ride....everyone liked it

Men In Black
all of us rode this ride....Bill & I weren't really wild about it. too much spinning for us. However, the rest rode this a few times.

A thunder storm blew threw and the ride Jaws was actually struck!! Unfortunately it never came back up, so we were unable to ride.

The Mummy

everyone but Bill & Kirsten rode this ride. Everyone except me like it. All in all, it was decent ride. But I was so fried out art this point that I couldn't really enjoy it

At this point our tour was over. Here's a pic of our whole group

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family309.jpg

Observations/Conclusions

I am definitely glad we did his tour. It was well worth the money!! Upon reflection, Bill & I decided we are much more WDW people....only because of the amount of thrill rides. The kids really enjoyed it and would love to go again & again.....we will go again, but not in the real near future

yellowfish78

06-09-2008, 06:46 PM

Sounds like another wonderful day Kristine! (PS: Did anyone get the risotto of the day from Mythos? Apparently that is what the are known for there...)

Did you guys ride the Mummy ride?! I don't see that on your list? And your not a wimp - it get's to me too after a few times. The simulations onnSpiderman are awesome though aren't they?

What's up for tomorrow??

ChristyJ

06-09-2008, 06:54 PM

I love the pictures and the overview of each ride! Glad you did the tour were able to do so much at both parks!

Where to tomorrow?

KristineN

06-09-2008, 06:54 PM

Oooops.....forgot about the Mummy. We did ride it..I added it to my list. No risotto, wish I would have known

Yes, the effects on Spiderman were great. I was good until the end, then it got too intense.

triplefigs

06-09-2008, 07:05 PM

Sounds like a really fun day! For now, we definitely will have to put Universal on hold.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-09-2008, 07:29 PM

There is a ride at Worlds of Fun in Missouri that spins you sideways in the dark. It is called the Cloud Poofer or something - like being in a tornado turned on your side. It was NOT GOOD. After the ride stopped I just had to sit there for a minute. The older I get the worse I get at spinning. That Cloud Poofer and the Astro Orbiter are the 2 worst things I have been on.

I think DS and maybe even DH would like universal. I think I am too much of a Disney girl to really like it, but we might give it a try someday.

Glad you guys had fun!!

PNO4TE

06-09-2008, 08:23 PM

Sounds like another great day for you and your family, Kristine! I am so glad you are trying all this new stuff!! :)

Tammi67

06-09-2008, 08:31 PM

Man, I hope your kids realize how great they have it. If not, remind them!

KristineN

06-09-2008, 08:45 PM

we are doing a Scavenger Hunt through Gifts of a Lifetime....I believe it is going to be a "Survivor" theme

What's up for tomorrow??

Where to tomorrow?

KristineN

06-09-2008, 08:46 PM

I think that's probably a wise idea until your kids are a tad older..I think you would all get more out of it then. Kirsten wasn't tall enough to ride many things

Sounds like a really fun day! For now, we definitely will have to put Universal on hold.

KristineN

06-09-2008, 08:47 PM

you should definitely try it Elizabeth

There is a ride at Worlds of Fun in Missouri that spins you sideways in the dark. It is called the Cloud Poofer or something - like being in a tornado turned on your side. It was NOT GOOD. After the ride stopped I just had to sit there for a minute. The older I get the worse I get at spinning. That Cloud Poofer and the Astro Orbiter are the 2 worst things I have been on.

I think DS and maybe even DH would like universal. I think I am too much of a Disney girl to really like it, but we might give it a try someday.

Glad you guys had fun!!

Steamboat Marti

06-09-2008, 08:48 PM

My favorite ride is the Incredible Hulk - what did Christopher think?

KristineN

06-09-2008, 09:04 PM

he liked it....he can't decide if he likes Hulk or Dueling Dragons better

My favorite ride is the Incredible Hulk - what did Christopher think?

KMH1

06-09-2008, 09:13 PM

Dueling Dragons is one of the only roller coasters I've ever ridden that's made me sick, and I'm a coaster girl (Cedar Point born and bred ;) )!

KristineN

06-09-2008, 09:23 PM

just listening to their description made me sick :rotfl:

tinknme

06-09-2008, 10:23 PM

Kristine sounds like you all had anther wonderful day! I love the Spiderman ride, but the end gets me as well. I have to shut my eyes :faint:

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-10-2008, 07:34 AM

we are doing a Scavenger Hunt through Gifts of a Lifetime....I believe it is going to be a "Survivor" theme

That sounds REALLY fun! Can't wait to hear about it!

you should definitely try it Elizabeth

Are we sure DS is taller than Kirsten? :confused:

KristineN

06-10-2008, 08:33 AM

Kirsten is very tiny for her age

lmartin2711

06-10-2008, 09:02 AM

I don't do roller coasters or simulator rides. It would set my vertigo off like wildfire. I would be in bed on medication for the rest of the day. The only "thrill ride" that I did while at Disney was Soarin'. The Monster Plantation and Pirates of the Caribbean were a bit rough since you are in the dark and turn and go backwards. I mainly enjoy walking around with everyone else and being their tour guide.

tinknme

06-10-2008, 09:10 AM

Hi Lynn! How have you been?

yellowfish78

06-10-2008, 10:46 AM

Have a great day! Hopefully the kids don't vote you off - you can just tell them that you can vote them off the ship in a few days! :rotfl:

PNO4TE

06-10-2008, 01:25 PM

Have a great day! Hopefully the kids don't vote you off - you can just tell them that you can vote them off the ship in a few days! :rotfl:

:rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

NewCrew42

06-10-2008, 01:49 PM

Loving your report. It is so interesting.

ChristyJ

06-10-2008, 02:41 PM

I'm looking forward to hearing about & seeing pictures of your gifts of a lifetime experience! I hope it's WONDERFUL!

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-10-2008, 05:44 PM

Kirsten is very tiny for her age

So is DS! :rotfl2: I think he is MAYBE 54" tall and weighs 70 lbs.

I looked at the Gifts of a Lifetime website after the trip where Jonathan wore the fairy wings and it sounds fun, but not fun with just 3 people. I also couldn't think of anything to buy for "surprises" along the way. Maybe you will inspire me with this one! ;)

KristineN

06-10-2008, 08:21 PM

Hi folks....Back from the scavenger hunt...it took about 4 hours...and it was a lot of fun but exhausting. I tried to get pictures of the clues so you would know what I was talking about....and could read along

PART 1

The adventure began at the wishing well where we were told we were on a race to find all the clues and find our treasure.

Clue #1 had us in Fantasy Land looking for a giant

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family346.jpg

Clue #2 had us by the Pirates of the Caribbean....we had fun with the workers there!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family349.jpghttp://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family317.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family318.jpg

Clue #3 we were over by Swiss Family - We were given an autograph book in the beginning to perform certain tasks

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family350.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family351.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family319.jpg

Clue #4 has us back in Liberty Square in the Christmas Shop

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family348.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family320.jpg

Food Challenge:At this point we had to preform a food challenge....the kids had to take Jelly Bellys and had to make the right combination of flavors...Bill then had to eat them. The last challenge he had to guess the falvor....he guessed WRONG, and hat to wear this hat for the rest of the day!!!! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family324.jpg

Clue #5....Off to the Hall of Presidents....we met a history teacher from Alabama who enjoyed helping us out...plus a worker named Jo...she was very funny!!!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family352.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family326.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family327.jpg

Clue #6 We had to go ride the Haunted Mansion...this was so the weirdest thing. When we were in the "Stretching Room" and the lights go out before the door opens....the clue magically appeared in Christopher's hands (and I am not kidding!!!)

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family353.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family330.jpg

Clue #7 Off to Buzz Lightyear....we had fun with the workers on this task.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family354.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family332.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family334.jpg

KristineN

06-10-2008, 08:22 PM

PART2

Clue #8 Had to find the price of a vanilla milk shake....this was harder that it sounds!! We had to head over to Pooh's Playground...the kids got a kick out of finding this clue

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family355.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family335.jpg

Clue #9 Off to the Grand Floridian

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family356.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family357.jpg

Clue #10 Off to the Contemporary...things got a little crazy for a while...there was a MASSIVE storm and there was a power loss for a bit at the Contemporary....

acting silly on the monorail
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family333.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family339.jpg

Our Final Task was to head over to the Polynesian....we were met by the coordinator and given our treasure....

The original plan was to dig up the treasure on the beach of the Poly....but due to the weather...there was no way we could do that.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family344.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family341.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family342.jpg

GGOOFY1

06-10-2008, 09:01 PM

Thanks for the great trip report. Enjoyed reading it and look forward to more. All your pictures are awesome.

my3princes

06-10-2008, 09:06 PM

Wow, you guys have done the coolest things. I can only imagine the stories the kids will have to share at school next year. When does the cruise start?

Tammi67

06-10-2008, 09:13 PM

Kristine - that is sooooo cool. What a great sport Bill is, and I think Jackie is the only one that doesn't look like the heat bothers her. So how did you plan this hunt, and if you don't mind asking, what did it cost you? We've done the Family Magic Tour, and that's one that if you've done it, it wouldn't be that fun to do it again. But this sounds great!

KristineN

06-10-2008, 09:26 PM

Thursday....

Tomorrow we will do the Space center....and then spend the night at the Radison.

Wow, you guys have done the coolest things. I can only imagine the stories the kids will have to share at school next year. When does the cruise start?

KristineN

06-10-2008, 09:28 PM

it is through Gifts of a Lifetime....prices range from 300-450...depends on the type of event and the time frame.

we did the 3 hour event.....in all honesty, 2 hours is more than enough. 3 hours was a killer...even for the kids

Kristine - that is sooooo cool. What a great sport Bill is, and I think Jackie is the only one that doesn't look like the heat bothers her. So how did you plan this hunt, and if you don't mind asking, what did it cost you? We've done the Family Magic Tour, and that's one that if you've done it, it wouldn't be that fun to do it again. But this sounds great!

PNO4TE

06-10-2008, 09:30 PM

looks like you all had fun again! LOVED Bill's new hat ;)

Tammi67

06-10-2008, 09:38 PM

tinknme

06-10-2008, 10:20 PM

Another great installment Kristine! I am really looking forward to your reviews of the cruise :yay:

triplefigs

06-10-2008, 10:48 PM

Another great installment Kristine! I am really looking forward to your reviews of the cruise :yay:Me too! What category stateroom will you have?

Diamondintheruff

06-10-2008, 11:05 PM

So now I'm booking backstage penguin visits and researching gifts of a lifetime. I have to warn you. You are on my husbands bad influences list.

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-11-2008, 01:35 AM

That treausre chest looks familiar! :rotfl2:

Glad you guys had fun!
It does look hot.

Enjoy your day at the space center! I guess Kirsten won't be wearing the borrowed astronaut suit since the temps are so toasty.

ChristyJ

06-11-2008, 06:29 AM

Wow Kristine, what an incredible experience! Bill is a good sport...I remember the fairy wings!;) (Wasn't that Bill and Jonathan?)

Enjoy the Space Center. And next is the cruise-are you excited?!:cool1:

KristineN

06-11-2008, 09:04 PM

Hi guys!!

Back from the Kennedy Space Center...

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family369.jpg

Our Congresswoman got us free tickets to get into the space Center, which included a bus tour...and the we did a lunch with an astronaut. (I highly recommend contacting your congressman/woman to get you tickets to it...as it is not cheap!!

The best part of the day was that they were actually launching a satellite into space...and we got to see the launch!!!!!! Of course with my digital camera...all it looks like is a little blip...but it was quite spectacular to see.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family372.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family373.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family374.jpg

Afterwords we had lunch with Charlie Walker (an astronaut who has been on 4 shuttle missions) I probably enjoyed this part the most.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family366.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/cw.jpg

We then went on a bus tour whereas we made 3 stops to look at some launch areas...the building where the put together a rocket....where they house the rocket etc.

These are misc pics:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family379.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family380.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family364.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family370.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family377.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family368.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m19/kristineNaj/family367.jpg

Observations.....if you are into space, I can see enjoying this type of thing. For us it goes onto the list of we have done it once...and never will do it again. My kids were frankly bored.

Tonight we are staying at the Radisson at the Port.... I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE!!! So far, our toilet wouldn't flush...then it was clogged, then it wouldn't flush again. The front desk has been very unsympathetic, and the maintenance guy has now gone home for the night!!! Hopefully no one has to go! For over $200...I am unimpressed!!!! And....Jackie just informed me that the pull out couch is "lumpy, uncomfortable the worse moment of her life"
'

KristineN

06-11-2008, 09:05 PM

Tomorrow is we leave on our cruise...we are very excited!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

tinknme

06-11-2008, 09:16 PM

Gary has been wanting to go here, but it does not appeal to me. Maybe the boys can go with him sometime.

Sorry the Radission is not up to par. Hope the evening goes quickly for you, can't wait to hear about the cruise. I want to know everything :rotfl:

Hi guys!!

Back from the Kennedy Space Center...

Observations.....if you are into space, I can see enjoying this type of thing. For us it goes onto the list of we have done it once...and never will do it again. My kids were frankly bored.

Tonight we are staying at the Radisson at the Port.... I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE!!! So far, our toilet wouldn't flush...then it was clogged, then it wouldn't flush again. The front desk has been very unsympathetic, and the maintenace guy has now gone home for the night!!! Hopefully no one has to go! For over $200...I am unimpressed!!!!

KristineN

06-11-2008, 09:34 PM

2 Category 6's

Me too! What category stateroom will you have?

PNO4TE

06-11-2008, 10:08 PM

Kristine - Again it looks like you did this day in a wonderful kind of way. It would have gotten boring to me after a while too. But you seem to have hit all the highlights and with free tickets too!

I hope you all get some sleep tonight and I hope that the lumpy couch is indeed the worst thing in Jackie's life EVER!

I can't wait to hear about your cruise. Have fun.

dreamcometrue

06-12-2008, 02:55 AM

love your trip report Kristine!! Have fun on your cruise! :love:

yellowfish78

06-12-2008, 06:48 AM

Have a great cruise Christine! For some reason I thought you guys were on a four night and not the three night... Either way, you'll have a blast! Have a drink (or two or three) for me please!

jackskellingtonsgirl

06-12-2008, 07:04 AM

Bon voyage!!
I hope your cruise is FABULOUS!! :goodvibes

I don't think the space center would be my cup of tea, but at least you can cross it off your list now!

tinknme

06-12-2008, 07:10 AM

Are you up yet Kristine :hyper:

KristineN

06-12-2008, 07:14 AM

what a night...Jackie couldn't sleep on the pull out...after really looking at it...I can't blame her. so ALL 3 kids in 1 bed...and Bill & I in the bed right next to theirs!! 1 hour giggle fest from them until they finally conked out. Bill & I are up and I am about to wake them....

Talk more from the cruise!!

tinknme

06-12-2008, 07:35 AM

I will be anxiously awaiting :cool1:

Talk more from the cruise!!

arielchickenofthesea

06-12-2008, 09:54 AM

Kristine at the rate you're going, you'll have another 143 "children" to take on your next trip! :rotfl:
You should be just about done with Universal - can't wait to see pictures!

Yeah count me in as one of those adopted kids!:rotfl2: :lmao: ;)

This is the best trip report I have read! I have gotten behind reading this report and so much has happened since I last read! My, My, You are doing it all! I want to do a trip like this! WOW!
Okay, the Universal rides I could do without, don't do thrill rides! :worried: I would definitely be sick on anything that spins or goes real fast over tracks or simulated. I am a wimp and the bouncing and rough ride would hurt my back too. That is why I'm a Disney gal...they have lots of other types of attractions that I can do.::yes::

The scavenger hunt looked like so much fun. I want to do that. How do you set that up?

And NOW! WOW!!! Out to sea on a cruise! What a vacation! You have planned the ultimate have-to-do trip for all of us! You are not gonna want to go home! What a way to experience the magic! And I thought we did long involved trips! :lmao: You got us beat by miles!!!!! You can plan my next trip, okay? I have not done a Disney cruise yet:scared1: but want to and add it to a stay at WDW. And Seaworld! I love Dolphins! I was just going back over your pics of the dolphins at Seaworld and wanted to reach through the screen and pet them! CUTE!!!!!!!
Waiting for more fun tales from your trip of a lifetime!:yay: Went back and reread your very post, I cannot believe how much you are doing this trip!:hyper: THIS is a vacation!
arielchickenofthesea