Good morning from BWV!NEW PHOTOS! Report Complete!!

[photobob]

Sitting outside in our standard view first floor 2 BDR enjoying the early morning sun and feeding the birds, squirrels,rabbits and ducks their bfast bagel! What a beautiful morning to be here.(Brought a wireless router!)
DW feeds ducks
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0151.jpg
DS does too
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0158.jpg
Peter Cottontail
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0166.jpg


We arrived Sunday around 3 pm and checked in and the room was ready, our first 2 BDR stay. I am afraid the amount of room may spoil us. There are five of us, Me, DW, Ds 21, his GF 23 and DD15.

We skipped lunch on the drive down and had an early ESPN dinner. Standard fare, not bad not great. DS and I split nachos and Dingers while DD had a hamburger and DW and DSGF had a fish sandwich.

DD,DS,DSGF
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0002.jpg

ME, DW
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0004.jpg

My nachos
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0006.jpg
DS, DSGF
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0009.jpg
After dinner we headed to Epcot and the crowd was pretty light. We walked in around 5:30 and heading towards Soarin which DS and DSGF had never ridden. There were no FP available so I went to Test Track and got FP while the rest of the crew went to HISTA. Surprising I was able to join them when I got back for the show. We then headed over to the Art of Disney and then Spaceship Earth with no wait, everyone enjoyed the new version.

After SE we saw that Soarin had only a 45 standby line so we went over and were on in almost 45 minutes exactly. Enjoyed playing the games on the walls, really helped pass the time. Talked the CM into letting us go to another area, so our first timers could be on the front row. Nice CM allowed us to do so.

Wall games

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0060.jpg

Once through our FP time for TT had arrived so we went and rode that. DSGF had never ridden TT and she enjoyed it very much. After we rode TT it was 10 minutes until Illuminations, so we strolled by Mexico and walked until we had a decent view. DS and I closed the evening with an hour swim at the pool and a couple of rides on the Kiester Coaster.
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0117.jpg
boardwalk
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0128.jpg
someone's cute kids
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0134.jpg
more boardwalk
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0142.jpg

I'm really surprised and happy to see the light crowds, I hope the trend continues. We are heading over to MK this morning have an 11:50 ADR for Liberty Tree Tavern. Probably stay at MK until 2ish and then come back for another swim or nap or both. We may check out Extra Evening Hours tonight at DAK, never been there at night! I'll fill you in tomorrow morning..

[nzdisneymom]

We were just at WDW and had a great time over at the Boardwalk one evening just strolling around, stopping to watch the magicians. We were staying at the Beach Club, but we'll be staying at the Boardwalk in October for the first time - can't wait!

Enjoy your lunch today - we were at LTT yesterday. Mmmm. Somehow my pb/j today will pale in comparison :)

[spiceycat]

2-bedrooms are bad! so no more studios or 1-bedroom right?

definitely enjoyed the few times allowed myself and my guests a 2-bedroom. but hey a studio gal at heart!

hope your vacation continues to be great!

[bobbiwoz]

You're off to a great start! Enjoy your stay!
Bobbi:)

[DisDaydreamer]

Have a great stay :thumbsup2 an keep updating if you can.

[photobob]

Went to MK this morning, again lower than expected crowds! The past two years we've travelled the last week of June, well all I can say is the first of June is much better, way better.

Headin to MK
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0170.jpg

We caught the bus at about 8:40 and there were may 15 people on it, we stopped at Swalfin and didn't pick anyone up at either place. We arrived at MK shortly after opening. DS headed to Space Mtn to get us fastpasses while the rest of us headed to Splash. Splash was a walk-on, as was BTMRR, as was haunted mansion, as was Philharmagic. When we got to Space Mtn when our FP window opened, it was around 10:30 and the standby time was 20 mins and the fp distribution time was 11:30, unheard of in
previous trips.
DD Splashed
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0172.jpg
riding BTMRR
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0202.jpg
Goofy 1 and 2
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0278.jpg
So after riding Space we got another FP for Space and then had a 15 min wait at Buzz Lightyear. After buzz we headed towards LTT for our 11:50 ADR, stopping to take a few photos of everyone with Cinderella Castle in the background.
All 5 of us
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0276.jpg
DS, DSGF,DD
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0261.jpg

At LTT, Me and DD had the pot roast which I highly recommend, DS had the Pilgrims feast which he enjoyed but I think he could have eaten two plates of it, DW had the colony salad which she really enjoyed and DSGF had the TRi-Corner sandwich which was also enjoyed. The highlight of lunch was dessert, we all split the Ooey Gooey Toffee cake and apple tart with vanilla ice cream.
Gimme that gravy boat
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0279.jpg
apple tart
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0280.jpg
ooey gooey toffee cake
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0282.jpg


We went and rode Space again after lunch and then did and little shopping on Main Street before heading back for a nap and a swim.

Back later and I'll TRY to take the time to post some photos......

[DeeCee735]

I want to be there:bitelip:

[Laurabearz]

We LOVE the Standard 2 bedrooms at BWV!! Going to be there in October!

So good to hear the crowds are light!! Have fun!!

Oh if you think about it, can you take some close ups of the room service menus... lol

[Cyndibear]

Sounds like you are having a wonderful time with your family. Enjoy the low crowds and have a wonderful trip. The two bedroom sounds wonderful.

Have fun!!

Cyndi

[photobob]

Monday evening after a short nap, playing in the pool, tossing the frisbee with my son and having a meal in the room, we waited out a rain shower then headed to the bus stop to go to EMH evening hours at Animal Kingdom. Unfortunately the Disney transportation didn't seem to want anyone from the Epcot Resorts going to AK. I am a staunch believer and advocator of using the Disney transportation, I believe not driving adds to my reality escape. Waited for over an hour for a bus though can get to even the most patient. We waited for over an hour and there were others that had been there 20 minutes before us.

Once we got to AK it was well worth the wait. We got our wristbands around 8:45 and then headed for the attractions. We rode Expedition twice, each with a 20 minute wait. Primevil Whirl was also about a 20 minute wait, Tough to be a Bug was a walk up, Dinosaur was a walk on and we closed the evening with a wet ride on Kali River which was also a walk on. On Kali we were the CM's offered to let us ride again without getting off, but my daughter was soaked and didn't want to ride again.

EE night view
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0322.jpg
DS, DSGF first EE ride
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0298.jpg
Dinoland
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0324.jpg
Nice hat dude
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0339.jpg

The rains combined with the wind made for a cool evening my DD and DSGF had to take jackets with them to AK! I don't recall ever doing that in JUne before. Another note about crowds, I can't express just how surprised I am at how low they have been so far. I think the combination of schools not out yet in the Northeast, Memorial Day having already past, maybe the economy?, have combined for a very good week to be here. My wife and I came down for three nights during the first week of February and I honestly believe it was busier then.

I absolutely love the location of our room. We are directly across from the bus stop on the first floor and we have a wonderful canopy of trees which filters the early norning sun. We have frequent guests of ducks that will eat out of our hands as well as squirrels, several birds and a rabbit. I have posted all these reports from our porch, the wireless router was a great idea and I appreciate someone posting about doing that. I'm also quite thankful that DVC has added free internet as a perk. More later......

[dvc at last !]

love your report ...

[DisDaydreamer]

Thanks :goodvibes Have a good day.

[DeeCee735]

i want to be there :hyper:

[Muushka]

Back later and I'll TRY to take the time to post some photos......

I know for a fact that you take awesome pics. Cannot wait to see some of these things described!:goodvibes

[photobob]

BUMP..Photos added more to come...

[Laurabearz]

Great pics!!

Say... Would you mind asking your son's girlfriend where she bought her purse?? lol

Can't wait to see more!

[mcrabeck]

Thanks for sharing your vacation with us! It looks like you are having a fabulous time!

[disneymom8589]

Incredible pictures!! I especially loved the one of the BW at night with the colorful lights reflecting off the water!! :) Makes me so excited for our 1st trip to BWV next month!!

[melomouse]

Thank you sooo much for the updates and the gorgeous pix!!! Never stayed at BWV but looking forward to it more than ever this November, thanks to your posts!

[nzdisneymom]

Sounds (and looks) like you all are having a great time! We always get extra gravy for the Pilgrim's Feast. Looking forward to reading (and seeing) more of your adventures.

[eliza61]

Great pictures Bob. I nominate you for our official dvc dis photographer.
Enjoy your vacation!

[Kitten]

Any pic updates today?? I really need a Disney fix ;)

[DisDaydreamer]

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0280.jpg
ooey gooey toffee cake
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0282.jpg

:eek: I've been on a diet for six months..... I just had to stare and drool.... :lovestruc I'm not sure which I would enjoy more.... I keep scrolling up and down to compare....

[Corinne]

I absolutely love the location of our room. We are directly across from the bus stop on the first floor and we have a wonderful canopy of trees which filters the early norning sun. We have frequent guests of ducks that will eat out of our hands as well as squirrels, several birds and a rabbit. I have posted all these reports from our porch, the wireless router was a great idea and I appreciate someone posting about doing that. I'm also quite thankful that DVC has added free internet as a perk. More later......


We have actually had this same location several times~even though I prefer an upper floor, it is a nice location.

I am enjoying your report so much! :)

I am planning on bringing my new laptop on our trip next month. WHat exaclty do I need to be able to post from my balcony or patio? I am used to be wire less here at home! :laughing:

[squitty]

Great report and lovely photos.

[BlakeNJ]

I was just thinking what fantastic picture you take...and then I saw your screen name. Duh!

Your live report is just what I needed with my morning coffee. Thanks so much for taking the time to post during your family vacation! You have a beautiful family.

Blakely

[abk96]

Loved your pictures! Thanks for posting them. Some of them had me laughing out loud.

Enjoy!:goodvibes

[photobob]

Good morning again, we had a late evening so we slept in this morning. So, let's look at yesterday. The kids decided to go water parking, Typhoon Lagoon was their choice. The arrived about 8:45 and headin in. Once the rope dropped they headed for Crush n Gusher and rode several times with no wait. They then did all the slides in a matter of an hour or so. They then repeated what they had already done and were back to the resort around lunch time. They reported very few waits for any slides.

DW and I stayed at the Resort enjoying each others company:love2: We then headed to the Boardwalk and strolled leisurely around until headed over to Epcot around 11. We walked in just as the World Showcase opened and just about had the place to ourselves. I made an ADR yesterday morning for lunch at Tokyo Dining, so we had some time look around before our 12:00 seating. We started at UK looking around the shops, checked out with my family Coat of Arms looks like. We then went to Germany to buy DD's BF a soccer ball from Germany.

We stopped and talked to a nice young man at the DVC kiosk who said Welcome Home as we walked up. He said he could tell by our relaxed touring style that we had been there and few times and that we were probably DVC members.

We got to Japan for lunch and checked in about 5 minutes before 12:00 and I noticed on the screen that we were the only ADR for 12:00. We sat and watched a short ceremony with the entire restaurant staff welcoming everyone. It was a nice touch. We were seated immediately and go the best table in the house. Front and center window table.
Japan CMs
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0053.jpg
chicken, shrimp tempura
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0054.jpg
seaweed
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0056.jpg

We decided to try a sushi sampler, we've never eaten it before. It had California roll, tuna, salmon and shrimp. We both enjoyed it very much, the fish was very fresh and mild. We decided to have tempura which we haven't had before. DW had chicken and shrimp, I had shrimp and scallops. They are served with a dipping sauce, rice and seaweed. There are also vegetables fried with the meats as well. They included zucchini, mushroom, asparagus and I think sweet potato. I liked everything and cleaned my plate and was pretty well filled. DW brought a great deal back in go boxes. I like Teppan style better, but we like to try new things and am very glad we ate here. The service was absolutley terrific.

We also stopped to watch performers at France.
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0084.jpg

I've got to get ready to go to AK, so I'll have to finish yesterday's report later on. I have a ton of photos but will have to work them before I post.

More later...Bob
Thanks for tuning in..

[Luckymommyx2]

I'm really enjoying your reports and pics...keep 'em coming. I can't believe how light the crowds are at this time of year! Wow! Sounds like a magical trip so far.

[KyleRayner]

Just chiming in with everyone else to say that you take wonderful pictures and I appreciate you sharing your pictures and trip with us. It does help with satisfying Disney fixes.

[photobob]

Great pics!!

Say... Would you mind asking your son's girlfriend where she bought her purse?? lol

Can't wait to see more!

I checked it's an American Eagle purse.

[photobob]

Any pic updates today?? I really need a Disney fix ;)

Just added a few...

[KELLY]

Everyone looks like they are having a great time. Love your pictures and reviews. You are also making me very hungry.

[DeeCee735]

Good morning again, we had a late evening so we slept in this morning. So, let's look at yesterday. The kids decided to go water parking, Typhoon Lagoon was their choice. The arrived about 8:45 and headin in. Once the rope dropped they headed for Crush n Gusher and rode several times with no wait. They then did all the slides in a matter of an hour or so. They then repeated what they had already done and were back to the resort around lunch time. They reported very few waits for any slides.

DW and I stayed at the Resort enjoying each others company:love2: We then headed to the Boardwalk and strolled leisurely around until headed over to Epcot around 11. We walked in just as the World Showcase opened and just about had the place to ourselves. I made an ADR yesterday morning for lunch at Tokyo Dining, so we had some time look around before our 12:00 seating. We started at UK looking around the shops, checked out with my family Coat of Arms looks like. We then went to Germany to buy DD's BF a soccer ball from Germany.

We stopped and talked to a nice young man at the DVC kiosk who said Welcome Home as we walked up. He said he could tell by our relaxed touring style that we had been there and few times and that we were probably DVC members.

We got to Japan for lunch and checked in about 5 minutes before 12:00 and I noticed on the screen that we were the only ADR for 12:00. We sat and watched a short ceremony with the entire restaurant staff welcoming everyone. It was a nice touch. We were seated immediately and go the best table in the house. Front and center window table.
Japan CMs

chicken, shrimp tempura

seaweed
We decided to try a sushi sampler, we've never eaten it before. It had California roll, tuna, salmon and shrimp. We both enjoyed it very much, the fish was very fresh and mild. We decided to have tempura which we haven't had before. DW had chicken and shrimp, I had shrimp and scallops. They are served with a dipping sauce, rice and seaweed. There are also vegetables fried with the meats as well. They included zucchini, mushroom, asparagus and I think sweet potato. I liked everything and cleaned my plate and was pretty well filled. DW brought a great deal back in go boxes. I like Teppan style better, but we like to try new things and am very glad we ate here. The service was absolutley terrific.

We also stopped to watch performers at France.I've got to get ready to go to AK, so I'll have to finish yesterday's report later on. I have a ton of photos but will have to work them before I post.

More later...Bob
Thanks for tuning in..

Do you know if they do the "show" at dinner as well, and what time if so?

TIA

[Chellymouse]

Thanks for a wonderful TR!! I have only one thing to say........
I WANNA GO HOME!!!!!!!! :rotfl2:
(65 days and counting!!) :cool1:

[photobob]

Finishing up yesterday.

After lunch we come back to the room for a good while. We all had naps and then, DW, DS and I went to the quiet pool to just enjoy the quiet and the water for awhile. Around 5:30 we decided to go to Studios to see what we could ride and the maybe catch Fantasmic, it had been a long time since we'd seen it.

We arrived at the Studios around 6 and head toward RNR only to find that it was down, and apparently been so for quite a while. So here is another indicator of the crowd size, we go over to Tower of Tower and the sign says 20 minutes and it was actually a walk on. So RNR is not working and Tower of Terror was a walk on, I couldn't believe it.

DSGF loves Andy Griffith
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0142-1.jpg


After Tower of terror we thought we'd see about the wait time for Toy Story Mania and it was 90 minutes. We skipped that and kept walking around and ended up at Muppets which was a walk on. I've always loved that show and still do. When we got out of Muppets the skies opened up and it was pouring!
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0148.jpg

We decided to have some hamburgers at Backlot Express and wait out the storm. This was not your run of the mill Florida storm, it poured for at least an hour and 45 minutes.

waiting out the rain
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0104.jpg

When the rain finally lets up we walk towards the Fantasmic entrance and the 9 pm show was cancelled but the 10:30 was still a possibility.

the pretty put poorly place hat
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0158-1.jpg

We walked over to RNR which was now up and running and had just a 20 minute wait in standby, but I don't think it took that long.
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0151-1.jpg

AFter RNR we decided to give Toy Story Mania one more check and it was a 25 minute wait so we headed in. What a cool attraction, it was a lot of fun, I highly recommend it.
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0160.jpg

We headed back towards the Fantasmic entrance to see if the show was a go and it was. The storm must have sent most of the people to the exits because the seating was less than half full. I'm glad we got to see it, it had been so long since I'd seen it was almost new to me.
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0198.jpg

Today we have gone to AK just to ride Kilamanjaro Safari and then caught a bus back to go to Le Cellier for lunch! Later to day we are going to DTD and finish the day with putt-putt at Fantasia Fairways..


..Fill you in tomorrow

[photobob]

Do you know if they do the "show" at dinner as well, and what time if so?

TIA

They probably do, but I don't know for sure. They did the lunch one right at 12:00 which is their opening time.

[photobob]

BTW I forgot to mention a Disney tradition. I usually shave my head, but for three weeks leading up the the trip I let my hair grow. The day before we leave DW gives me this "special" haircut:

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0055.jpg

[Laurabearz]

omg LOVE the hair!!! LOVE IT!!!

And thanks so much for asking her about the purse. Good WDW purses are hard to find.

[wisbucky]

Love the photos thanks for posting them. We will be there at the end of June. Hoping the crowds are slightly lower then usual.

[AJA55]

Enjoying your trip report….or as I am referring to it…..a pre-trip teaser….oh and love your do….LOL

[snowwhitemom]

What a fantastic job your wife does on your haircut....BRAVO!!!! BRAVO!!!! I know a few hairstylist that would mess that up!!!!!!!!

[suzycute]

I LOVE the haircut!!! And the trip report is great too!!

Thanks for sharing! :thumbsup2

[Cyndibear]

I absolutely love the location of our room. We are directly across from the bus stop on the first floor and we have a wonderful canopy of trees which filters the early norning sun. We have frequent guests of ducks that will eat out of our hands as well as squirrels, several birds and a rabbit. I have posted all these reports from our porch, the wireless router was a great idea and I appreciate someone posting about doing that. I'm also quite thankful that DVC has added free internet as a perk. More later......


We love this location also. We request it everytime we stay there. Makes it so easy to get to the bus stop and it's easy to get to the boat too.

Sounds like you are having a great time. Thanks for the report and photo's.

Cyndi

[Disneypirate85]

WOW....I LOVE YOUR TR!
Your pictures are great will be at BW in 23 days :banana: Hope the crowd level stays down a little bit but expecting the usual crowds and Brazilian Tour Groups:( . But who cares ITS DISNEY!

[Corinne]

i want to be there :hyper:

haha! Diane, seeing you post that twice made me lol!!!!!!!!!!

[Corinne]

Oh man! The haircut! Your wife did a fanastic job! Does she use a cookie cutter as a template???!!! rofl! It is perfect!!!!!!!!!!!

[Brave teacher]

WOW! I am loving your trip report! We are considering going this very same week next year. I can only hope the crowd situation stays the same this time next year.

[abk96]

Oh my! That hair is terrific!! Your DW did a fantastic job.

[FinallyBoughtDVC]

Oh man! The haircut! Your wife did a fanastic job! Does she use a cookie cutter as a template???!!! rofl! It is perfect!!!!!!!!!!!

OMG - I was thinking the same thing!!

I am loving this TR - it's keeping me up past my bedtime - but it's marvelous. So glad you're having such a wonderful time. Your family is beautiful!

[rthutchens]

Your pictures look great, what kind of camera are you using?

[nzdisneymom]

When I was reading about your time at DHS, I was hoping you were able to ride Toy Story Mania! It's fabulous, isn't it? So much fun. We can't wait to do it again.

Love your hair cut -- what kinds of comments do you get?

[photobob]

Your pictures look great, what kind of camera are you using?

I use a Canon 20D, I might add also that I am a professional photographer. My M-F job I am the chief photographer for a small daily newspaper, plus I have my own business on side, I shoot weddings, senior portraits and commercial jobs. My regular job pays the household bills, my business pays for everything else, like DVC and WDW trips.

[photobob]

When I was reading about your time at DHS, I was hoping you were able to ride Toy Story Mania! It's fabulous, isn't it? So much fun. We can't wait to do it again.

Love your hair cut -- what kinds of comments do you get?

I get several comments everyday, most just love it, I have people stopping me all day long to take a photo of my head. I get positive comments from CM's as well. Once a ToT CM gave me and my party a re-ride because of my Disney enthusiasm.

[TenThousandVolts]

Great pictures- looks like such a fun time- You have a beautiful family. I hope when my kids are older they still enjoy wdw with us as much as your kids do!

[BlakeNJ]

Love the update and hair-do :cool2:

[kimberh]

PhotoBob, your pictures are wonderful... I had to look at them twice.:goodvibes

[photobob]

Sorry, I've let myself get behind. Wednesday we slept in after a late evening at the studios. DSGF had never been on Kilomanjaro Safari so we headed over to AK. We didn't catch the bus until around 10:30 am and we had to be back to Le Cellier by 1:30.

We got to AK and headed to the Safari ride. Now I've been talking a great deal about the low crowd levels, but it never seems uncrowded at AK does it? I think the walkways are much to narrow there and it is always hotter than hades. There just aren't the air conditioned places to cool off like everywhere else. We got to the ride and it had a 50 minute wait posted, it took us about 35 minutes to get to vehicle. We rode the ride but the animals weren't that active, it was almost noon by now so they were hiding in the shade, I don't blame them at all.

We headed for the exit to catch a bus back to Boardwalk after stopping for some liquid refreshments. We arrived at BW around 1:00 and heading straight for the Epcot gate for our much anticipated lunch at Le Cellier.

We arrived at Le Cellier about 10 minutes early for our 1:30 ADR and were seated with in 5 minutes. Our server arrived and took our drink orders and I told her we needed pretzel bread stat and plenty of it! I ordered cheese soup for myself and shared with everyone to dip their bread in it.

For entree DS and I had NY strips medium-rare and substituted cream cheese mashed potatoes for the yukon potatoes.DSGF had the salmon blt and DW and DD both had the Filet mignon with mushroom risoutto and split a side order of cream cheese mashed potatoes. The meal was wonderful. DW proclaimed that it was the best steak she'd ever eaten. My son and I thoroughly enjoyed the NY strips which were flavorful and cooked to perfection.

We headed back to the resort after lunch for naps and pool time. We headed over to Downtown Disney in the early evening and just kind of strolled for a little while. Is it just me or is the World of Disney store like trying to go to Walmart on the first Saturday of the month? I think I'm just going to have to steer clear of that place unless I go early in the day.

We headed back to the resort and DS, DSGF and I stopped to play around of putt-putt at the Fairways course at Fantasia Gardens. That is a unique putt-putt experience if you've never tried it. The holes are set up like a regular golf holes with with long fairways and such, it is quite a challenge.

I'll add some more photos later..

On to today. Thursday, our last day before heading back. I got up early and got pastries for everyone from Boardwalk Bakery. My feet are aching from all the walking and when I go by the fitness center I see people walking on treadmills?? Have they not had enough walking??


We decided on Studios because DS and DSGF had never done Lights, Motors, Action. DS and I tried the walkway from Boardwalk while the girls rode the boat. It is really not a bad walk, we did it in 10 minutes and beat the girls there by 15 minutes.

We headed straight for ToT while the girls were still en route. We got to the park around 9:15. The standby line for ToT was 20 minutes which was about correct. We met the girls coming out of ToT and went to RNR which posted a 25 minute wait, it was more like 15. Riding ToT and RNR back to back does me in for thrill rides for a couple of hours! I can take only so much in a short period of time of having my stomach in my throat.

We had lunch reservations for 12:50 at Mama Melroses and needed to see LMA at 11:50 so we headed towards Toy Story Mania and found only a 30 minute wait. My son and I are very competitive with one another so the girls let us ride together. I had beaten him the night before in putt putt by one shot, so he was looking for revenge. We both were doing quite well in the TSM games and at the end he nudged me out by 161,700 to 160,000 points. It was a nip and tuck battle!! He has still never beaten me at Buzz Lightyear though. We snagged some fastpasses for TSM for after lunch.

We needed to kill a little time so we went to The Great Movie Ride. YYYAAWWNN! We headed for Lights, Motors, Action and got seats up high close to an exit. The show was good as always and the first timers enjoyed it.

Time for Mama Melroses. We hadn't eaten here in several years but have always enjoyed it. Today was no different. We started we the Artisian breads and spreads and all devoured them hungrily. Everyone order flatbread pizzas but me. I went with the wood grilled shrimp over pipette pasta in a cream sauce. We all shared with one another and it was all quite good.

Time for my revenge at TSM!! Unfortunately technical difficulties kept our rematch from taking place. We headed back to the resort for more pool time and naps.

Tonight, our last night will be Epcot and beer and brats!! I'll probably finish the report after we get home Friday evening...

[podsnel]

I just got back from a quickie at SSR- must have just missed you at EMH at AK- we finished the night with 2 rides on EE- LOVE that ride, even more so in the dark!! During Tuesday night's downpour we were at EPCOT- WOW, did it come down!!!!! :scared1:
Love all your pics, and your hair! Enjoy your last night- can't wait to read about it!

[abk96]

Thanks for the report. And I guess we'll let it slide that you let yourself get behind on the report. ;) You're only on vacation, you know.

Just kidding. Enjoy your last night. Beer and brats sounds yummy.

[VrBchJ]

I'm really enjoying your wonderful trip report and love, love, love your hairdo. How fabulous. And your pictures are always the best.

[bobbiwoz]

I love reading your report and seeing your pictures!! Thank you.
Bobbi:)

[cristbaby]

What a great report. I really enjoyed it and loved all of your pics. :thumbsup2 Have a safe trip home. :moped:

[DisneyVeteran]

Love the pics!

We leave on Sunday - hopefully the crowds will be good for us too!

[aprince&princess]

Great trip report and I really enjoyed the pictures. We can't wait to try TSM in Oct!

[photobob]

Thursday night our last night. DS and DSGF went to Morroco to look at some things in the gift shop and then returned to the Boardwalk. They ate dinner at Big River Brewery, he had the mahi salad and she had the mahi sandwich. They said it was pretty good.

DD, DW and I decided against going to epcot and returned to ESPN and had macho nachos, the girls split an order and I had one to myself. It's pretty good, not bad not great, heavy on the jalapenos which we like. We hung around the Boardwalk for awhile, went into seashore sweets which I for some reason hadn't ever been in there, 3 stays at Yacht Club and 2 at BWV and that was the first time I've ever been in there.

We watch some of the street performers and they are really entertaining. It's things like that that makes WDW stand out to me. The CM's that have games for kids at the swimming pools is another nice touch.

We went to the gift shop at BWV and bought a couple of 2008 photo albums and me a new Disney cap. The gift shop there doesn't have much to it though. We headed back to the room for little while before go back to the pool and a couple of keister coaster rides one last time.

Last year I never went to the pool, this year I went every day. Part of the reason for that is my son was on this trip and he likes to play. It reminded me of our first trips to Disney when he was much younger. We'd go to the pool every night and throw the sponge pool ball around for the longest time. He brought the balls this year and we are like to kids when we get together. I'm so glad he and his GF came this year. I expect in the next year and a half or two she'll probably become my DDIL. She is a wonderful girl and my son is a heck of a young man himself.

I'm now back in my home after a long drive home. Traffic was a bear but by the grace of God we made it! I know many of you drive much farther, God Bless you. 550 miles each way is more than enough for me. It doesn't seem that far driving down, but it sure does coming home!

Some concluding thoughts:

-I know i went on and on about crowds be low, but this was my 11th trip and I believe they were the lowest I've encountered. I think we were just fortunate in timing. Memorial Day had passed, kids in northern schools which make up a great deal of WDW travelers are still in school, it was gay Days but i'm not sure if that really has any effect or not, the economy isn't the greatest and gas prices are horrible.

-Bus service at BW is not the best. I always have a car with me but I NEVER use it. I'm a staunch believer in using the transportation system. I just don't want to drive, i have to do that enough at home. Having to wait for 75 minutes on a bus to AK was a bit much. There were, I'm not kidding, 8 Downtown Disney buses that came during that time. I told a couple of those drivers nicely that the reason no one was getting on to go DTD was because they were the fourth and fifth buses in 30 minutes time. They both said they'd call in and get us a bus. Forty minutes later one comes. Rant over.

-Toy Story Midway Mania is a great addition. I applaud Disney for this one.

-Sorry to go back to the crowd thing but we had lunch at Le Cellier and there were eight to ten empty tables. There were only a handful of tables being used in our area at LTT when we had lunch there. Tokyo Dining only had maybe 20 percent of their tables being used at lunch. I think we could have walked in to any restaurant on property.

-Isn't it great to spend so much quality time with your family at Disney? I know it is expensive, but I can't put a price tag on the wonderful memories we've made on our numerous trips. It's not just going to WDW, it is the time you spend with your family while you are there.

-Thanks so much for letting me share my trip and my family with you this week.

-I'm going to drop several photos in later this evening..Bob

[Tracy0729]

Great Report Glad you made it home safe. Tracy:yay:

[KELLY]

Glad you made more memories. That is the best part. We are hoping to make many with our girls. DD who is 2 had been 2 times soon to be third. And DD who is 3 months will make her first trip at almost 6 months. That's the best part of DVC.

[photobob]

bw strolling
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0247.jpg
Espn club
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0243.jpg
BW performer1
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0281.jpg
BW performer2
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0290.jpg
DD hopscotching at UK
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/hopscoth.jpg
CM took our photo
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_00051.jpg
BW day shot
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0006-1.jpg
DW at Italy
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0034.jpg

[photobob]

Lights, Motors, Action
1
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0120.jpg
2
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0177.jpg
3
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0169.jpg
4
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0195.jpg
5
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0204.jpg
6
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0219.jpg
7
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0233.jpg

[photobob]

Kilamanjaro Safari
1
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0005.jpg
When I was a young WARTHOG!
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0053-1.jpg
Elephants
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0041.jpg
Who you calling reticulated?
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0037.jpg

[photobob]

Segwayers
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0027.jpg
You're so tall!
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0106.jpg
Another potty break
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0109.jpg
Filet from Le Cellier
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0065.jpg
mr potato head
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0101.jpg
dw in France
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj232/photobob1961/wdw%20june%2008/IMG_0023-1.jpg

I'M DONE!!!

[disney0210]

thanks for the time you spent in doing this report. loved your pics, they're great! if you don't mind my asking, what type of camera do you use?

[zalansky]

What more can I add about the pics that others have not already said? I felt like I was there with you! Wonderful report. Reading your comments about appreciating your DVC membership makes me happier that we own too and have small kids. I know i will be able to say the same one day. We always love our time at WDW.

And you do have a beautiful family, thanks for sharing with us!

[WALTSAGOD]

Nice shots, thanks.

[Harley-Mouse]

My good friend is down in WDW last Sun till this Sun hope she had the same crowds you did. Only spoke to her on Sun about the room she got BCV 2br first floor. She rented point from the boards. I asked if she liked the room and she said she loved it. I would never stay 1st floor. O well love the report. I have to look at it again at home. The work pc wount let me see your photos.

[GGOOFY1]

Thanks for the great trip report. Have a safe ride home

[abk96]

Thank you so much for sharing your trip with us Bob. I enjoyed reading about your trip. You have a lovely family and I can tell that they mean so much to you. Your pictures made me smile.:goodvibes

Glad you all made it home safely. Take care.

[allaboutmm]

Thanks for sharing! Looks like everyone had a great time!:thumbsup2

[wdwfan0123]

I love the photo of the warthog!! Fabulous:thumbsup2

[Luckymommyx2]

I have enjoyed reading your TR and seeing all of the wonderful pics you have taken throughout your stay. (The elephants are my personal fav!) I'm a little sad your stay is over because I really looked forward coming to your thread. Thanks for taking the time and sharing with us!!

[DeeCee735]

Awesome TR, the VERY BEST haircut I've ever seen, awesome pics....thank you and.....


:) I want to be there:)