Leaving the kids and DH's Home!! SSR girlie getaway June 1-4, 2008 Update July 20th! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

podsnel

06-09-2008, 07:49 AM

Hi there! My name is Ellen, and this is my first TR. My DF, Lonnie, and I spent 4 days in WDW last week and I can't wait to tell you all about it!!:goodvibes

Here's the cast-

Me. Ellen, 45, wife of DH Pods and Mom to 3 sons, ages 14, 11 & 9. I am a Disaholic, and they couldn't take it anymore, so they sent me packing to WDW without them, hoping I would get it out of my system and would shut the h*** up. So far, not so much!

DF Lonnie, 40+, wife of DH Mike and Mom to 2 gorgeous girls, ages 11 & 3. Lonnie and I were roomates in college, she was my Maid of Honor 22 years ago:scared1: and I was her Matron of Honor a few years after that. We never, ever see each other. She's in Fla, I'm in NJ, and this would be our first time together in 10 years!!!!!

Being inspired by another TR a few months ago where someone booked a last minute trip to SSR with a girlfriend, I went ahead and did the same. DH and I bought DVC at AKV on our trip last November, and this would be my first trip using points!:woohoo: :woohoo: Add in $200 airfare, and how could I say no? Lonnie said she'd drive down and meet me there, so it was time to start planning- ASAP, before all the good stuff was gone!!! Lucky for us, early June is a slow time for WDW, so we were able to get pretty much everything we wanted. The only thing we couldn't was an ADR at Le Cellier on the day we were planning to be in EPCOT. That's ok- I'll be back lots more times and I can go then, right? LOVE DVC!!!!:thumbsup2

Here we are on our first night- Lonnie is on the left, I'm on the right. By the way, I am standing on my tippee toes to be in the photo with my DF- I'm 5'3, and she's just a little bit taller than that!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0245-1.jpg

podsnel

06-09-2008, 08:34 AM

So after a quick (although delayed) flight out of Newark, NJ, before you know it, I was on the Magical Express to SSR. By 12:30, I was checking in, and waiting for Lonnie out front. Literally 2 minutes later, there she was!!! Perfect timing!!! Let's go see our room!

I had requested Congress Park or the Grandstand, but was really hoping for CP because we wanted to be able to walk over to DTD quickly and easily. Lucky us, we got Congress Park with the coveted DTD view!!! Woo Hoo!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: Check out our view!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0212.jpg

I was literally jumping up and down like a nut over this view! I had pretty much counted on admiring the parking lot for 4 days, so this was very, VERY cool instead!!

Anyway, after I got done doing back flips, we stocked up the fridge with the groceries and, more importantly, wine that Lonnie had picked up and then in a flurry of clothes got on bathing suits and sped over to the spa for our 2:00 appointments. I was getting the mystical therapies, which was a combo 25 minute Swedish massage and 25 minute reflexology, and Lonnie was scheduled for a 50 minute upper back & neck massage followed by a deluxe facial. All of our treatments were great, my massage was perfect, and I spent the 2nd half of it asking a million questions about future DVC plans- you know, what's at the Contemporary, when are they announcing it, etc...to which the masseuse replied that there would be DVC's built at all the hotels on property in the future, but not the Poly because THAT is not owned by Disney.....:scared1:

Any way........

She also told me that the Contemporary is the most haunted hotel on property and that weird things happen in their gym, like treadmills going on spontaneously and the numbers 666 flashing on the screens. Well, I don't know what I think about any of this, but it was interesting, and she gave a GREAT backrub, so I was very satisfied with the whole thing. Lonnie had a great experience, too, and the best was that her facial didn't hurt- the technician was very gentle...how nice!

For some reason, I forgot my camera- which I NEVER do, except, apparently, on this trip, because I did it at least twice!!! Anyway, I went back to the room, got the camera, and took these photos of the SSR spa-

The lounge, where we waited for our treatments:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0215.jpg

The spa:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0216.jpg

And best of all, (but blurry, sorry!) Minnie's locker:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0217.jpg

podsnel

06-09-2008, 09:47 AM

Spa stuff done for me, I headed to the pool bar for a Margarita- yum, he made it not-so-sweet for me, which I really appreciated! I'm just not one for very sweet drinks. Sorry I don't have a pic of Rita to show you, I wasn't into full photo mode yet, but don't worry, I was in a picture taking frenzy for most of the rest of our trip and you'll see Rita more than a few times before I'm through! :rotfl:

I waited for Loni by the main pool and read through all that great stuff they hand you when you check in. I was pretty impressed by all the activities that were listed!! Lonnie showed up to pay homage to Rita as well, and then I decided the Ritas needed to wash down some food, so I made my way to Artist's Palette. I chose a roast beef and blue sandwich because it looked soooo good- and it was delicious!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0218.jpg

OK, the photo isn't my best, but I had already snarfed down half the sandwich when I remembered to take a pic. The bread (ciabatta) is my FAVORITE sandwich bread, so this was very yummy!!

A little more hanging out, and we were ready to shower up and unpack everything else. Then it was on to DTD, we had an 8:00 adr for Raglan Road.
The sunset was beautiful that night!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0222.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0223.jpg

Next, it's dinner time!

podsnel

06-09-2008, 10:56 AM

So we went to Raglan Rd for dinner- wow- what a fantastic place! It really felt like we had hopped the pond for the night! We ordered some beer- Lonnie had a Weiss beer (I think) and I got a Smithwick's, remembering I really enjoyed that beer when I was in Scotland on another girls trip (I know, lucky me!). Here's Lonnie with her's, I think she's lookin' like the St Paulie girl-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0226.jpg

The next hour or so went something like this:

Man at the bar: Please can I buy you a drink?

St Paulie girl: No thanks, I've got a drink.

MATB: It would be my greatest joy in life to know your name and buy you a drink...

SPG: No thanks, I've got a drink.

MATB: Please, I must know the name of this beautiful woman who I will remember the rest of my life as long as I live!

SPG: No thanks, I've got a drink.

Well, you get the idea.

Anyway, we ordered some amazing stuff for dinner- I had Paddy's pork-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0230.jpg

SPG got Sod the Stew with a side salad instead of green beans:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0231.jpg

And for dessert, what else but that AMAZING bread pudding!!!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0232.jpg

OMG, that stuff was the BOMB!!!!! Too bad I was so full from eating that whole porkchop!!! Yikes!!! Our server informed me he NEVER sees anyone finish that whole pork chop-
Uh, thanks for the compliment, it's nice to feel special.
Here's our server, he was alot of fun!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0235.jpg

I'll be back with the rest of the night later!

podsnel

06-09-2008, 04:08 PM

After Raglan Rd, we were on to check out Pleasure Island and DTD. Now, I had thought when planning this whole thing that we would be going into the Adventurers Club, etc, but once we got there, we were so excited to see EVERYTHING there was, that we just couldn't bring ourselves to commit to just a couple of clubs. So we snagged a couple of drinks from one of the outposts, and went on to explore what we could. We spent alot of time checking out the memorabilia in Starabilias, they had the coolest stuff! I had not been to DTD in 11 years, a LOT has changed!!:rotfl: Anyway, we started to fade around 1 or so, pretty respectable considering I had woken up so early that morning to catch a plane. We made our way back to SSR, which luckily for us was in the first building next to DTD, and fell asleep before our heads hit the pillow.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0239-1.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0241-2.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0246-1.jpg

Brave teacher

06-09-2008, 07:47 PM

allaboutmm

06-09-2008, 08:31 PM

Great TR so far!!! Thanks for taking the time to write it!:thumbsup2

luna99

06-09-2008, 09:44 PM

I looooove this tr!! thank you so much for the spa pics.. I'm always trying to see pics of the spa things like the locker rooms and treatment rooms and they are hard to find! can't wait to hear more!

Mischa

06-10-2008, 04:24 AM

A little more hanging out, and we were ready to shower up and unpack everything else. Then it was on to DTD, we had an 8:00 adr for Raglan Road.
The sunset was beautiful that night!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0222.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0223.jpg

Next, it's dinner time!

Beautiful pictures! Great trip report so far!

podsnel

06-10-2008, 06:33 AM

Cool, I'm the first to post after you! It looks like so much fun. DH and are thinking about going the first week of June next year. We just bought our DVC. We have Kidani points, so we're hoping it is open then.

I'm interested in all you have to say about SSR. We'll be staying there for a week for Mardi Gras.

Keep it coming!

BTW, that bread pudding pic got me hungry right away. I LOVE LOVE LOVE bread pudding.

Hi Brave teacher! The first week of June was really wonderful- very low crowds, weather was a little bit hot, but not like August hot/humid- we did have some thunderstorms at night and early evening, but it all worked out!
We bought at AKV too (in Nov, so Jambo- just plain developer pts) but I truly thought SSR WAS BEAUTIFUL and relaxing. So did my friend! I was glad she had a car, though! I would stay there again in a heartbeat, being close to DTD was excellent!
PS- the bread pudding was the BEST!!!!

podsnel

06-10-2008, 06:42 AM

Great TR so far!!! Thanks for taking the time to write it!:thumbsup2

You are very welcome, and thanks for the complment!

"I looooove this tr!! thank you so much for the spa pics.. I'm always trying to see pics of the spa things like the locker rooms and treatment rooms and they are hard to find! can't wait to hear more!"

THANK-YOU!!!! I'm glad you like the spa pics- I know I searched for them all over the place on here, and really didn't see many, so that's why I took them, for Dismaniacs like myself!!;) Too bad I didn't have the camera with me when I got there, because I would have taken a pic of the treatment room, too. Since I forgot the camera in the room, I checked out and went back for the camera, and then went back into the spa to photo it.

"Beautiful pictures! Great trip report so far!"

Thank-you!! I'm glad you're enjoying it- REALLY glad!:)

OK- onto day #2!

podsnel

06-10-2008, 08:02 AM

Hooray!!! Our first full day in Disney!!! I can never sleep-in there, can you? I am always just sooo happy and sooo excited about everything! So, after we opened the curtain and said, "LOOK AT OUR VIEW!!!!"
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0210-1.jpg
again for the millionth time, we got dressed in record time and headed over to AP with our refillable mugs for some coffee on the way to AK. Now, I have to say it was a HUGE convenience to have a car, especially at SSR when you wanted to very quickly run into AP for a refill or go anywhere else. This is the first time I have ever stayed at WDW with a car for the length of our stay, we always use the WDW transportation when we are here. I love riding the bus, because I love talking to all the peeps on vacation and listening to whatever Disney happens to be talking about on the speaker, or laughing at all the funny things the ferry captains are spewing that day....but having a car made me realize those buses are driving SOOOOOOO SLOWWWWWWW!!!! I mean, really!!!! Oh! I just remembered another interesting tidbit offered by the girl at the spa- she said the buses are running on cooking oil!! Does anyone know if THAT one is true?:confused3

Anyway, we were almost there, and guess what I did AGAIN!!!! I LEFT MY CAMERA IN THE ROOM!!!!! :scared1: :scared1: Ok- can someone explain to me how when I'm here with my 3 kids and DH I can manage to get everyone ready to go AND ALWAYS remember that camera, but when I have no responsibility other than which umbrella drink do I have next I keep screwing up?!!!??? Oh- maybe it's all those umbrella drinks you say? Well, that situation will NOT change on THIS vacation, so we'll have to get another plan...from now on, Lonnie will ask me a dozen times (or more if neccessary),
"Do you have your camera?" before we go ANYWHERE. :thumbsup2

So, back to the room, back to the car, back to AK- I felt so bad, because I really wanted to get there for rope drop, especially for Lonnie because this was her first visit to AK. But guess what? When we got into the park, Mickey was up on the Tree of Life!! We didn't miss it all- yay!!!:yay: :yay:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0255-1.jpg

Next we made a beeline for KS. The wait time said 20 minutes, but honestly it was more like 10, so yippee kai yay!! I haven't been on the safari in a while- this last trip in Nov with the kids, my oldest DS had a MAJOR meltdown in line (I don't think I've mentioned- he's autistic) so I took him out and DH rode with the other 2. So I was very glad to be on the safari again. We saw a TON of animals AND we were in the front row!!!:woohoo: :woohoo:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0270.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0272-1.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0273.jpg

See the baby?
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0277.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0280-2.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0288.jpg

That was fun, and we both agreed it would be awesome to come back and do the sunrise safari sometime- looks like I'll have to do my best to book us in concierge at AKV someday....

podsnel

06-10-2008, 09:35 AM

Of course, next we walked the Pangani FET. We saw alot of gorilla backs, and then we saw one of the males off by himself looking right at us- COOL!:thumbsup2
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0298-1.jpg
And the meerkats were so cute-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0292.jpg

And then my phone rang from home.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0290.jpg

I had scheduled a dentist appt for DS14 since DH has to take him anyway (sometimes it's hard to keep him in the chair and DH is MUCH stronger than me!) but, unfortunately, DS did not want to get out of the car at school- he associates going to school with getting out of a bus, not a car. So we all came up with the idea of getting him into a school van and driving him around and then he got out. PHEW! I have to say, I have gone away with a girlfriend more than once before, leaving DH in charge. He is a VERY capable Daddy, and I am so lucky to have him!:love: But sometimes, when I come back from being away and he is like "Piece of cake" I feel a little unappreciated. This time, all h*** broke loose while I was gone, and while I don't wish that on any of them, I certainly felt more valued when I got home!

OK, so after an hour or so back and forth to NJ, we were back to having fun. I had never been out to Rafiki's Planet watch, so we hopped on the train.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0301.jpg
When we got there, we said hello to Jiminy Cricket-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0307.jpg
Then we sat in the rain forest room and listened in:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0308.jpg

You know how the guide books all say, "If you're lucky, they'll be performing a procedure on an animal while you're there!". Well, I guess we were luckier than the proceduree, a porcupine who was about to have his, ummm, manhood cut off! YIKES!!!:scared1: http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0312.jpg

podsnel

06-10-2008, 10:29 AM

You know what I noticed was so different about this trip? SHOPPING!!! :rotfl: My boys do NOT get into shopping unless it involves them and some kind of sports equipment. This was my first trip EVER to WDW without the wallet police, aka, my DH. LET THE MAD SPENDING BEGIN!!!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0315-1-1.jpg
Ok, not really MAD spending, but some cash was layed out all the same. Lonnie:hippie: bought a Buda and some good luck thingees to hang around the house, while I got a necklace to wear to my friend Fiona's for Chinese New Year next year (I'm year of the Tiger). We were starting to get hungry, so we decided to see if we could get in early for our ADR at Yak & Yeti. I have to say, I nearly cancelled this one numerous times because it is not getting the best reviews here on the DIS. But although the food was kind of average, the atmosphere was A+++ and I would highly recommend a visit.
We each had a House salad:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0320.jpg
That was yummy. Then we split a Dim Sum Basket and Lo Mein:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0321.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0322.jpg
The shu mai in the basket were very tasty. And our Iced Teas were incredibly refreshing on such a hot day! But the atmosphere is what we loved-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0324.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0325.jpg
And that's just what we saw on the way to the bathroom!!!:rotfl: :rotfl:
Really, it was a neat place- I just wish they would incorporate some Indian & more exotic Indonesian food in there because the restaurant itself is so much like you are in those places.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0331.jpg

Next was MJT, for bats (who were fanning themselves to cool off) and tigers-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0335.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0337.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0341.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0348.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0343.jpg

podsnel

06-10-2008, 10:57 AM

The tigers made us a little thirsty, so we decided to find the Dawa Bar and refresh ourselves with some refreshment-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0352.jpg
This time our girlfriend, Rita, was frozen, but she was melting fast!!! So, drink 'em if you've got 'em! Or her! Or whatever! My Rita was plain, Loni's was a mango berry concoction which they were nice enough at the Dawa Bar to let me sample before I made the mistake of ordering something too sweet for moi. But Loni loved it.
We then went to FoW, and waited for the next show, being entertained by the owl and bird cm while we waited in the heat (soooo glad we had our girl Rita with us!;) ).
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0355.jpg
Does this bird remind anyone else of Mr Rodgers, or was I just having heat stroke? FoW was EXCELLENT!!! I can't believe I never went to this show before!! We sat up in the 3rd row or so on the left center of the stage, on the aisle. I'm telling you because these were GOOD seats- we had alot of birds flying directly overhead.:duck: This turned out to be Loni's favorite thing all day, as she is a bird girl, has 2 right now, but has had many others in the past. We even had two in college when we lived together, which her BF and I would always let out of the cage so they could fly and be free, AND which her BF & I found hysterical:lmao: :rotfl2: , but, Lonnie...not so much.:headache: Anyway, here are some birds for your viewing enjoyment:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0366.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0368.jpg
We were so glad to have seen those birds, we can't wait to take our kids! We decided to do one more thing before heading back, well, 2 or 3 if you count the shopping! On sale sparkley tshirts! Antannae toppers for every holiday! Mickey etched wine glasses! All shipped back to the room!:thumbsup2 We decided to see Finding Nemo over Lion King, because we thought we'd do it at night along with EE and Tough Bug. I'm glad I saw Nemo without my boys- it's really good, and I loved watching all the little ones freaking over nemo, but my DS's are just too old to enjoy it anymore:sad1: . On our way out of the park, it was PARADE TIME!!! :banana:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0377.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0378.jpg
Time to head back to SSR....

TigerKat

06-10-2008, 11:07 AM

Subbing to come back and read later today!!!!

podsnel

06-10-2008, 11:21 AM

Subbing to come back and read later today!!!!

YAY!!! Someone is subbing!!! Thanks so much- I hope you're entertained!!!

podsnel

06-10-2008, 12:11 PM

So we thought we would go hang by the pool, but as soon as we got to the car, we heard thunder. So, after we filled our mugs with iced tea, chugged, filled, repeated, we went back to the room so Lonnie could do some school work (she's getting her teaching degree) and I could walk around and explore at SSR. I decided to look at the Congress Park pool-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0384.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0385.jpg
Our studio is the one with the awning on the ground floor:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0382.jpg
Even with the impending doom and gloom in the skies above, walking around SSR is just so nice....it is very relaxing and quiet. There is always something new to see around the corner (especially when you've never been before::yes:: ).
Back at the room, we popped some fine champagne and got showered up for the night's festivities. Great timing, as that was when it decided to pour. But every cloud has a silver lining- or, at least, a rainbow-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060206summer0387.jpg

Once again, may I just say, "WOW!!! LOOK AT OUR VIEW!!!":worship:

Next- seeing AKV for the first time!

heaven2dc

06-10-2008, 12:31 PM

TigerKat

06-10-2008, 01:04 PM

podsnel

06-10-2008, 01:06 PM

What a great view you had even after a last minute reservation (last minute in my books means booking anything under 6 mos lol). I tried to get my DBFF's daughter & son a room at Beachclub Villas for August by renting points but to no avail and only thing available was SSR. They wanted a 1-bedroom but felt SSR wasn't as close to everything as BCV so I ended up booking them direct thru Disney and still ended up getting a studio (they're not happy with a studio but at least they are getting their wish to be close to Epcot & HS). My point to all this lol is that I think after seeing your beautiful view that they should have taken SSR, saved lots of money by renting points and would have had a great time at SSR.

A girl friend vacation is great fun! My DBFF & I went the end of Jan 08 and had a blast and are returning again in December 08.

Wow- the lure of the BC- I definately understand it. This trip to SSR was the very first time I stayed anywhere on WDW property that wasn't the BC, although I was always in the hotel there, not the villas. BC IS convenient to Epcot and HS, without a doubt- but SSR is convenient to DTD, which on the transportation system is inconvenient from most other places. And DTD is GREAT when you have a grown-up trip!!! As excited as I was to try a new property, there was definately a concern over whether I would be as happy staying in such a different place. But you know what? I LOVED it!!! And it made me realize that you could come to WDW over and over and over again in your lifetime, and always have a different, revitalizing, exciting experience- new views are GREAT!!!:love: And I agree- I think they WOULD have had a great time at SSR!!!

Have fun on YOUR girls trip!!!:thumbsup2

podsnel

06-10-2008, 03:48 PM

I can tell we have a lot in common already, I know your friend Rita quite well. In fact she frequently shows up on my vacations!;)

LOVE the view you had. We had an amazing Boardwalk view on our last trip and every morning I was just WOWED by it!

:hug: I can only imagine your life as a parent to an autistic child. I think you getting away for a while is a definite "must-do". One of my very best friends here on the boards has a daughter who is also autistic. I met her last year while we were in WDW and I was blown away at how super intelligent and "crafty", for lack of a better word, she was. The stories her Mom told me had me in tears.

We saw Flights of Wonder for the very first time on our last trip and felt like "Where on earth has this little gem been"? We LOVED it!!!

Looking forward to the rest of your TR!!:thumbsup2

Yea, that Rita is a busy girl- she really gets around! :goodvibes
Thanks for the hug- the autism adventure is a big one! Getting a break from it sometimes really helps. Your friend sounds wonderful; it is challenging but it is also rewarding, and we all learn something from my son every day, even if it's just that he can add the states and alphabet, and we can't!!
FoW IS a gem- can't believe I walked by it so many times and said, Oh, that's not supposed to be that great- what was I THINKING?!!!!
Thanks!

Mischa

06-10-2008, 05:09 PM

Love your Trip report so far - very entertaining! DH & I are heading to SSR in September and can't wait.

Last November I took a trip to SSR with 2 of my best friends - it was the greatest girls weekend we've ever had; and now my 2 friends keep bugging me "when can we go again? We love SSR!"

podsnel

06-10-2008, 06:43 PM

So we were all prettied up and ready to go to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for our ADR's at Jiko. I could barely contain myself as we pulled into the port cochere to valet park. I was finally going to see our home resort!!! In person!!! FOR REAL!!!!! We walked into the lobby, and literally my jaw dropped to the floor-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0070.jpg
No photo does this place justice- you just have to stand in it and see for yourself.
Since we were running late (as usual) we took the elevator down to the restaurant level. We ran outside to quickly see the pool-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0071.jpg
Then we checked in and sat at the bar to wait for our light to start dancing, and being in no rush to stay sober we ordered a delicious sauvignon blanc recommended by the bartender- great choice! Warwick Professor Black 2007. From South Africa, of course!!:thumbsup2
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0076.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0072.jpg
Lights began to flash, and we were off to be seated. Jiko is a gorgeous restaurant, and the CMs on the staff were wonderful. We were lucky to be seated next to an off-duty CM who was having dinner with her visiting Mom from NJ! Mom lives about 2 towns away from me, what a small world! Anyway, we had some great conversation with the two of them. For appetizers, we ordered Kalamata Olive Flatbread and a Taste of Africa-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0073.jpg
This was all magnificent. I make alot of flatbreads and grilled pizzas at home when I entertain, and I would LOVE to serve that flatbread next time- it was yummyyummyyummy!! And those dips in the taste of Africa with all the different breads- especially the naan - so, soooo good!
The friendly table next to us recommended the Oak grilled Filet Mignon, and we both ordered it. Each was done PERFECTLY and cut like buttah!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0078.jpg
You know, everyone always has a comment on the macaroni and cheese that accompanies the filet- my comment is, it was the least cheesy m&c I've ever had! But I did like having some mac with my steak!:goodvibes
We had no room for dessert- I'm so sorry to disappoint you! But we didn't want to overstuff because after a visit outside to try to see some nighttime animals (never could find those nightvision goggles) and to see the campfire still blazing, and ANOTHER visit indoors to scope out the lobby in more detail and some shopping in the store, we were headed to EMH at AK!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0093.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0094.jpg

YIPPEE!!! I GOT TO SEE MY HOME!!!!!!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0095.jpg

Next- will she or won't she?

Kristybell

06-11-2008, 02:16 PM

TigerKat

06-11-2008, 02:47 PM

Ahhhhhh.....JIKO......one of my favorite places!!!! There's an appetizer sampler platter that is not on the menu, which has a variety of their appetizers on it (enough for 2). We ordered it last time and it was AMAZING!!!!!!!

You're SO LUCKY to have AKL as your home!!!!:goodvibes

CRSNDSNY

06-11-2008, 06:04 PM

Awesome TR so far!!

WE LOVE LOVE LOVE JIKO!!!

podsnel

06-12-2008, 07:49 AM

Loving the TR so far!

We have dinner ressies at Boma for our upcoming trip and I can't wait to see the Lodge! I've heard it's amazing.

Now this question might sound silly, but did I read correctly when you said you had your "girlfriend" Rita in line with you for FOW? So, we can stroll the parks with our adult beverages in hand?! Why did I not know this?:lmao:

Can't wait to read the next installments!

-kristy

I have ressies for Boma on my next trip, too- we're (DH, DS11 & DS9 + me) staying at AKV for one night before our DCL Western, we'll be there on Halloween. My friend and I did walk through Boma while we were there, it was chaotic compared to Jiko, but I am really looking forward to eating there before we go to MNSSHP.
And yes, Rita strolled around AK with us- she saw FoW, too!!!:thumbsup2

Ahhhhhh.....JIKO......one of my favorite places!!!! There's an appetizer sampler platter that is not on the menu, which has a variety of their appetizers on it (enough for 2). We ordered it last time and it was AMAZING!!!!!!!

You're SO LUCKY to have AKL as your home!!!!:goodvibes

I think Jiko is now one of my favorite places, too! Thanks for that tip on the appetizer sampler- I LOVE to try everything, so that will DEFINATELY be on my table at my next visit!:goodvibes

I FEEL lucky to have AKV as my home- but I would feel lucky, I think, to have any of them as my home! It took 2 years from when I first brought it up to DH (I tried to talk to him about Boardwalk) to convince him about DVC. 2 years ago he thought I was insane, and now he thinks it is the best thing we could ever have done for our family and is looking forward to buying even MORE points!

Awesome TR so far!!

WE LOVE LOVE LOVE JIKO!!!

Thank-you! And Me TOO TOO TOO!

Love your Trip report so far - very entertaining! DH & I are heading to SSR in September and can't wait.

Last November I took a trip to SSR with 2 of my best friends - it was the greatest girls weekend we've ever had; and now my 2 friends keep bugging me "when can we go again? We love SSR!"

It really was the perfect place to go with your girlfriends, wasn't it? That's how we felt about SSR, too. The Spa was great, the resort is gorgeous, the people are so friendly- we loved every minute of it!:lovestruc Can't wait to return- I'd love to do a villa next time, though. The studio was just lovely, and a great way to conserve points (it was 12/night) but I think I'd love the WOW factor of a villa- I bet they're beautiful!

toocherie

06-12-2008, 05:29 PM

loving your report and subbing in so I can read the rest once you get it posted!

wdwgirl03

06-12-2008, 05:39 PM

I saw SSR in your TR title and had to stop in. Saratoga Springs is our home and I love it there. :goodvibes We stayed in a 2-bedroom villa over New Year's and it was amazing...it was in Congress Park too so we had a very similar view to yours. I remember looking out on the balcony and seeing Fulton's and all the people milling around DTD. So much fun!!

That is so cool you have points at AKL...my dad, sister, and I stayed there in the middle of May. Another awesome resort! Gotta love that DVC. :goodvibes :thumbsup2

Looking forward to more...I'm loving your pictures!

podsnel

06-15-2008, 08:28 AM

loving your report and subbing in so I can read the rest once you get it posted!

Thank-you! I'll try to post this morning!

I saw SSR in your TR title and had to stop in. Saratoga Springs is our home and I love it there. :goodvibes We stayed in a 2-bedroom villa over New Year's and it was amazing...it was in Congress Park too so we had a very similar view to yours. I remember looking out on the balcony and seeing Fulton's and all the people milling around DTD. So much fun!!

That is so cool you have points at AKL...my dad, sister, and I stayed there in the middle of May. Another awesome resort! Gotta love that DVC. :goodvibes :thumbsup2

Looking forward to more...I'm loving your pictures!

That sounds like a very familiar view!! We were in room 1143- I am excited to try out AKV- hopefully those points will help me get my DGF Lonnie & I into concierge next May- cross your fingers for us!!:goodvibes

addicted2dizney

06-15-2008, 08:37 AM

podsnel

06-15-2008, 10:40 AM

So...just wrote this whole thing and my computer froze up so I have to start again- AAARRRGGGHHHHH!!!!:badpc: Anyway...Sorry I haven't posted in a few days, but I was a little busy. On Thursday night I went to the great reunion of Ritas everywhere- we saw Jimmy Buffet at the Garden!!!:cool1: I have to say, I really enjoyed hangin with Rita in WDW, but, truly, nothing can top hangin with her and all her friends while Jimmy Buffet is playing Margaritaville!!!:thumbsup2

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0010.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0029.jpg

I had to include this guy I met while waiting in the Rita line-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0020.jpg

Also, DS14 graduated from 8th grade on Friday- isn't he handsome in his cap & gown?

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0051.jpg

And DS14 actually turned 14 yesterday-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0067.jpg

OK, sorry for going:offtopic: , but I had to share!

podsnel

06-15-2008, 10:47 AM

Love your report! Wow I live close to you! :) I grew up in Berkeley Heights too, even closer! I'm doing a get away with a Dis friend in Sept! Leaving 21 days from now with the kids but in a way looking more forward to that trip!:rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

Hey neighbor! Nice to meet you! My pediatrician is in Warren, Watchung Peds, and my DF's just built a house in Long Hill Twp- anytime you'd like to meet somewhere nearby, let me know!!! We could obsessively discuss Disney without the usual rolling of eyes I get from most people!:rotfl:

MichelleVW

06-15-2008, 11:03 AM

Great TR!! I am dying to take a trip with 2 of my Girlfriends, it would be so fun. No kids, no husbands!!

podsnel

06-15-2008, 11:41 AM

So, we finally left AKL and headed over to AK- some very nice Dissers had recommended EMH at AK to me a while back on these boards, and I am so grateful to them for talking it up!!! The park was magnificently lit up after dark, it looked even more exotic and mysterious than in the daylight.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0098-1-1.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0102-1.jpg

The only downside was that since we had spent so much time gawking at everything over at AKV we did not have alot of time to spend here.:( So, no Lion King and no Tough Bug- I felt REALLY bad because Lonnie has never seen them, but, we can always come back, right?:thumbsup2 Well, she loved AK so much she can't wait to bring her girls back soon, so I made her promise me she'd make sure to go to the Festival of the Lion King next time. I think that show is just incredible! It always makes me tear-up!

Well, we clearly had one priority- EXPEDITION EVEREST!!!!! Now, I, like so many people, love love LOVE:love: this ride, and I am not a big one for coasters- but, EE is special, right? So I was out of my mind excited to ride at night. Lonnie, on the other hand, was a little scared. Lonnie doesn't usually do rides, she gets motion sickness. But the one ride she doesn't get sick on is BTMR over in MK, and EE is just a great big ol BTMR with some backwards thrown in and a lot more screaming- right? Well, anyway, we made our way over to the mountain...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0099-1.jpg

Will she do it? YES!!! And may I just say, that ride at night is even MORE amazing than I ever thought! The view on the way up is incredible!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0103-1.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0104-1.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0088.jpg

The view on the way down is good too!! Not once, but TWICE!!!:yay: :yay: :yay: Woo hOO!!! YAY LONNIE!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061406summer0089.jpg

ANd YAY me for riding with no hands- my boys will be so proud! Lonnie has since informed me that she has now learned to say NO and will be declining EE rides on future trips, but all I can say is, I can be very persuasive Lonnie, so I wouldn't pack up your thrillride hat just yet!;) By the time we finished our second ride, it was 11:00, so time to go home....
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0106-1.jpg

CRSNDSNY

06-17-2008, 05:22 AM

:surfweb: another installation....the perfect ::yes:: way to start the day!!!
THANKS!

DiZneEChIcK

06-17-2008, 08:04 AM

podsnel

06-17-2008, 12:26 PM

Great TR!! I am dying to take a trip with 2 of my Girlfriends, it would be so fun. No kids, no husbands!!

I can promise it would be GREAT fun!! All about you AND shopping without complaints!! WOO-HOO!!!! It's just so nice to giggle with your girlfriends...:goodvibes

:surfweb: another installation....the perfect ::yes:: way to start the day!!!
THANKS!

Well...thank-YOU!!

Hello to a NJ neighbor. I grew up in Berkeley Heights, work in Cranford and now live in Manville!!!

I am loving your trip report. My DBF and I are going in October for his b-day and it will be his first time...I am soooo excited to play tourguide and to see his face seeing things for the first time. Your trip report and pics are making me even more excited to get there already!!

Patiently awaiting the next installment :surfweb:

Hi neighbor!! Do you know Addicted2disney? I know BH is a small town, where everybody knows everybody!! I'll have to pm you both and see if you know who I know from there- we are definately going to have to arrange a meet!!:thumbsup2

You are going to have a blast onyour Oct trip- LOVE to play tourguide, too!! Everytime Lonnie saw something new, I was so happy for her- like I'm so responsible for all the Disney magic she was experiencing, LOL!! But it's just cool to see it through someone else's eyes for the first time, again!:)

I'll post Day #3 soon- it's the last week of school, so I'm running around like a nut (as usual) trying to get stuff done. See ya soon!!

DISNEYLOVER70

06-17-2008, 01:04 PM

Great report! Thanks for sharing!

TigerKat

06-17-2008, 03:10 PM

Great update! I've never been to AK at night, looks awesome!:thumbsup2

podsnel

06-18-2008, 09:00 AM

Our third morning, we woke up to a wake-up call from Mickey and hopped out of bed to head in different directions- Lonnie was going back to the SSR Spa for an 80 minute aromatherapy massage and a Maple Sugar Rub. I, however, Disgeek that I am, was heading over to Epcot for the World Showcase Segway tour!!:woohoo: :woohoo: (Lonnie has actually done a segway tour before, on a business trip to Chicago) DGF was nice enough to loan me her car, so we stopped at AP to fill our coffee mugs, and she went on her way and I went on mine.

When I arrived at the parking lot, the line was already forming for people to get into the park. But I pulled up and said the magic words, Segway tour at 8:30, and was allowed in. I parked in the front row- sweet! I was a bit early so I finished up my coffee in the air conditioned car, and then headed for the park. It is so cool to get there when everything is deserted-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0108.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0109.jpg

While waiting to get in, I met some fellow Segway riders, a Mom and her daughter and her daughter's friend- the friend had won a trip to Disney from a NY radio station, lucky them!! Mom & DD were Disney veterans and from NJ- whenever I visit WDW, I always meet people from NJ- I guess we all really love it here! Anyway, by about 8:15 they let us into the park, and we were registering and waiting for the rest of our group. By 8:30, we were off to training in Innoventions West. As a side note, I would just like to say that I haven't been in Innoventions in probably 18 years, and it was pretty cool to see. They had a bunch of video game type stuff that I think my boys would enjoy some other time. We watched a quick film, then practiced all of our moves for about 45 minutes or so until it was time to head outside. After a quick bathroom break, we were on our way!! We waved to everyone, and headed in the direction of Mexico, riding by it and Norway, and then we went into China. What was surprising to me was that we got to ride the segways through the countries, zig-zagging through the gardens, going in and out of stores, etc. In any country we ventured in to, the guide told us some little bit of trivia, which was nice. While driving around, one rider forgot how to stop and kind of fell off in front of me, but she was ok, and got right back on after the guide reviewed operations with her. We stopped in Italy for photos and some freestyle tooling around, and then continued on to finish up our tour. It was a lot of fun, I would love to do it with my DH or my kids(when they turn 16) someday.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0111.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0115.jpg

At the end they gave all of us this cool pin! The Segway guy moves-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_061706summer0018.jpg

This is actually my very first pin, and I can honestly say that I've never been interested in pins before. But now that I have one? OMG!!!! It's the cutest!!! I MUST HAVE MORE!!!!

Next up- my broken pin and so the shopping has to start early...

addicted2dizney

06-18-2008, 09:12 AM

Wow! The segway tour looks great! My dis friend and I are scheduled for 9/17 to take one. It's great for a mom's only trip since my kids are too young to ride! Can't wait to hear more! :)

TigerKat

06-18-2008, 11:04 AM

I so wish I could talk DH into doing a Segway Tour.:idea:

podsnel

06-18-2008, 12:09 PM

Great report! Thanks for sharing!

You're welcome! Thanks for reading it!:)

Great update! I've never been to AK at night, looks awesome!:thumbsup2

It really IS awesome at night...we tried to do the live animal stuff during the day, because that is not open at night. But the rides are, and the park is just sooooo much emptier than during the daytime. I haven't taken part in many night-EMHs, because of the kids- but without the kids, it was PERFECT!!! Definately take advantage of it, if you can-::yes::

Wow! The segway tour looks great! My dis friend and I are scheduled for 9/17 to take one. It's great for a mom's only trip since my kids are too young to ride! Can't wait to hear more! :)

Yes, that's why I went! You'll love it!

I so wish I could talk DH into doing a Segway Tour.:idea:

There were alot of guys on the tour- and they all were enjoying themselves. It really is a fun and different vehicle, you really feel like you are zipping around on it, and it feels like you are going faster than you probably are, especially when you go downhill. I think I'd like to try the Fort Wilderness tour next time- those Segways have different, bigger wheels for riding on the rougher terrain. The guide said they don't ride very well on pavement- the puffed up wheels make the ride too bouncy. When Lonnie did her tour in Chicago, she said it was at night and they were all...ummm...visiting Rita?....before their ride. She said it was a blast, everyone loved it. I don't think Disney will be offering a Rita Segway adventure anytime soon, though!!:rotfl: :rotfl:

TigerKat

06-18-2008, 01:07 PM

She said it was a blast, everyone loved it. I don't think Disney will be offering a Rita Segway adventure anytime soon, though!!:rotfl: :rotfl:

:lmao: That would be one DH would agree to!!

podsnel

06-18-2008, 05:01 PM

So with my shiny new pin attached to my purse strap, I headed off for a morning in Epcot alone. I knew Lonnie and I were coming back at night, but I also knew I wanted to see some Epcot stuff I never get to see. But where to go? What to do? Usually I have everything planned, and this was kind of free form! YIKES!!! Oh look! Test Track has a 10 minute wait! I should do that. WAIT A MINUTE!!! Test Track is the ride we go on the MOST when I am with my family! I can't go to test track!!! I need to go somewhere my boys won't go! I need ...

CLINK! What the?!! OH- my shiny new pin! It fell right off and hit the ground!!! And the little Mickey head that was holding it in place has mysteriously vanished! I need to go shopping for those little Mickey thingamajigees!! And while I'm here, I'll just look at how cute some of these other pins are...OOOO- look, there's one with Tink and the castle, just like on the WWoD when I was growing up. :hyper:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061806summer0005.jpg

Well, that show is what started this Dis-ease in the first place, so I think that's the pin for me. :idea: Lonnie needs a pin, too! Lonnie gave me a big "pin" yesterday in AK-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_061806summer0003.jpg

Lonnie loves Tink!!! But Lonnie only loves the original Tink, the one with all the attitude, not that Barbie lookin one they just came out with for some movie-aaahhh, I found her! A Tink for Lonnie w/ attitude! (Sorry, I don't have a pic, but you know the Tink I mean!!). Ok, shopping is done for a little while.

Just a small piece of advice- if you take the Segway tour, and your pin goes clink on the ground, GO BACK TO THE SEGWAY PEEPS AND GET YOURSELF A NEW PIN!!! I say this because my pin fell off at least 5 times, but, somehow, I still have it- minus the Mickey Head thingamajigee.

Ok, I accomplished something, but where to next? Honestly, if I would have given this 10 seconds of thought before the moment arrived, I could have seen a bunch more, but I ended up walking in circles and then going to see Figment and taking the Land ride.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0125.jpg

I was 1 person too late to see Crush (bummer, dude!), but I was hot. I was hungry. I needed...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0126.jpg

Love me some Mickey Ice Cream Bar!!!:thumbsup2

That about did it for my morning alone, I wanted to get back to see my DF by the pool, and maybe go have some lunch at the Turf Club...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0127.jpg

Camster0307

06-18-2008, 05:21 PM

Just found your TR -- and, of course, I'm subscribing to a fellow Jersey girl's report! (I know it says I'm from Mass.; but I'm born and raised in NJ!:thumbsup2 )

Good for you for getting your girlie getaway! You deserve it. I'm the single mom of a special needs daughter and unfortunately I can't get any of my married girlfriends to go away for a few days; so I'm taking my youngest DD in 4 days. It will be nice to truly relax for a little while.

You and your friend look like you're having a really good time. Your trip seems to be exactly like the one I would like to take. Looking forward to reading more!

podsnel

06-18-2008, 06:57 PM

:lmao: That would be one DH would agree to!!

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
Love it!!!!

Just found your TR -- and, of course, I'm subscribing to a fellow Jersey girl's report! (I know it says I'm from Mass.; but I'm born and raised in NJ!:thumbsup2 )

Good for you for getting your girlie getaway! You deserve it. I'm the single mom of a special needs daughter and unfortunately I can't get any of my married girlfriends to go away for a few days; so I'm taking my youngest DD in 4 days. It will be nice to truly relax for a little while.

You and your friend look like you're having a really good time. Your trip seems to be exactly like the one I would like to take. Looking forward to reading more!

Hey Jersey girl! Where in NJ are you from? I LOVE Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket- Mass is a great state!!

Yes, I do deserve a girlie getaway- we ALL deserve a girlie getaway!! They're the best! Getting away from it all in WDW is the most wonderful break from too much responsibility, which is what you and I probably both have. Have a FABULOUS girlie getaway with your DD, make sure to post and tell us what fun you had!!!:thumbsup2 :goodvibes :hug: And thanks so much for reading along!

Camster0307

06-19-2008, 06:26 AM

Hey Jersey girl! Where in NJ are you from? I LOVE Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket- Mass is a great state!!

Yes, I do deserve a girlie getaway- we ALL deserve a girlie getaway!! They're the best! Getting away from it all in WDW is the most wonderful break from too much responsibility, which is what you and I probably both have. Have a FABULOUS girlie getaway with your DD, make sure to post and tell us what fun you had!!!:thumbsup2 :goodvibes :hug: And thanks so much for reading along!

I grew up in lovely Bayonne; then got married and lived in Old Bridge for a few years before moving to Mass. We moved up here for my former husband's job. Now I'm divorced and stuck here!:headache: Shouldn't say "stuck" - Mass. is a lovely state - but I miss my Jersey shore.....and good bagels and pizza.....and the malls!:laughing:

Thanks for the good thoughts - we leave in three days!:woohoo: I'll definitely be doing my very first trip report for this one!

podsnel

06-19-2008, 09:16 AM

I grew up in lovely Bayonne; then got married and lived in Old Bridge for a few years before moving to Mass. We moved up here for my former husband's job. Now I'm divorced and stuck here!:headache: Shouldn't say "stuck" - Mass. is a lovely state - but I miss my Jersey shore.....and good bagels and pizza.....and the malls!:laughing:

Thanks for the good thoughts - we leave in three days!:woohoo: I'll definitely be doing my very first trip report for this one!

Ahh..my girlfriend down the street grew up in Bayonne- do you still have your accent? Yea, pizza, bagels, bread in general, great Italian food, LBI, etc- I'd miss it too. :)

Definitely write a TR- it is time consumming, but soooo much fun to relive your trip. Also helps with the "I'm not in Disney":sad1: feeling you have when you get home!

Camster0307

06-19-2008, 11:58 AM

Ahh..my girlfriend down the street grew up in Bayonne- do you still have your accent? Yea, pizza, bagels, bread in general, great Italian food, LBI, etc- I'd miss it too. :)

Definately write a TR- it is time consumming, but soooo much fun to relive your trip. Also helps with the "I'm not in Disney":sad1: feeling you have when you get home!

You betcha!:thumbsup2 Prefer my dignified Joisey accent over the hideous Bah-ston accent!:snooty: I've been hear almost 16 years now; have yet to start talking like the locals. And I'm still true to my Yankees and Giants!:woohoo:

podsnel

06-19-2008, 03:30 PM

You betcha!:thumbsup2 Prefer my dignified Joisey accent over the hideous Bah-ston accent!:snooty: I've been hear almost 16 years now; have yet to start talking like the locals. And I'm still true to my Yankees and Giants!:woohoo:

My gf Linda down the street has the bayonne accent- when I'm with her, I sound just like her by the end of the night- it's very catchy!!;) I'm surprised you haven't converted the neighborhood by now!

Nice to see you still like the right teams all the way up there- I'm surprised Boston has let you live like that all these years!!!:rotfl:

Camster0307

06-19-2008, 07:42 PM

My gf Linda down the street has the bayonne accent- when I'm with her, I sound just like her by the end of the night- it's very catchy!!;) I'm surprised you haven't converted the neighborhood by now!

Nice to see you still like the right teams all the way up there- I'm surprised Boston has let you live like that all these years!!!:rotfl:

Well, baseball season has been a little rough for me around here lately; but it's all good - the Super Bowl more than made up for it! Very happy campers in my house after that one! We will never cross over to the dark side!:thumbsup2

MousekaMaddi

06-19-2008, 08:33 PM

fab job!! Truly enjoyable!!

podsnel

06-20-2008, 06:23 AM

Well, baseball season has been a little rough for me around here lately; but it's all good - the Super Bowl more than made up for it! Very happy campers in my house after that one! We will never cross over to the dark side!:thumbsup2

Well, we can always hope this season will be better, right? I just noticed in your sig- this is a SURPRISE trip for DD?!!!! That is SO EXCITING!!!:banana: :banana: :dance3: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:
When are you telling her? Have you already? I can't WAIT to do that to my kids- I fantasize about it all the time!! But I don't know if I could keep my mouth shut!!! :rotfl: Really!!!

fab job!! Truly enjoyable!!

Thank-you, so much! I am truly glad you're reading it!

Camster0307

06-20-2008, 05:38 PM

Well, we can always hope this season will be better, right? I just noticed in your sig- this is a SURPRISE trip for DD?!!!! That is SO EXCITING!!!:banana: :banana: :dance3: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:
When are you telling her? Have you already? I can't WAIT to do that to my kids- I fantasize about it all the time!! But I don't know if I could keep my mouth shut!!! :rotfl: Really!!!

Well, I'm ashamed to say I couldn't keep my mouth shut either - I told her a few months ago! I'm kind of glad I did though; she's a planner like me, so we've had fun these past few months discussing what we want to do. Planning is half the fun, right?;)

podsnel

06-21-2008, 07:37 AM

Well, I'm ashamed to say I couldn't keep my mouth shut either - I told her a few months ago! I'm kind of glad I did though; she's a planner like me, so we've had fun these past few months discussing what we want to do. Planning is half the fun, right?;)

Planning is DEFINITELY half the fun...I'm OCDD about the planning!!!
See you in a couple of days- DH & I are headed into NYC for 2 nights, today is our 22nd anniversary!:love: My cousins are watching the boys, so I am escaping AGAIN!!!:banana:

podsnel

06-23-2008, 09:37 PM

Got back to SSR and Lonnie was lounging by the pool, and it was HOT!! A great time to take a break in a nice air conditioned restaurant, so we thought we'd go see what the Turf Club was all about. There were so many refreshing beverages on the menu, but Lonnie HAD to get a Blackberry Lemonade because it came with...TINK! And she also needed a Mimosa. And she liked the looks of that Mint Julep on the menu, too, but since she already had 2 drinks, I decided to order that one!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0129.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0130.jpg

That mint Julep had SOME kick!:rotfl:

I had read sooo many recommendations on what to eat here, and we had run into the nice CM & her Mom from Jiko the night before who said DEFINITELY get the onion rings, it was hard to narrow the choices down! Lonnie ended up with a Grilled Top Sirloin Steak sandwich with the onion rings instead of french fries
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0132.jpg
And I chose the Crab Cakes and Ceasar Salad
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0133.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0131.jpg

I have to say, this was all just so yummy! They grill the romaine lettuce before they make the salad, and I have no clue what that really does, but it was delicious. The crab cakes were very good, too! And the portions are GINORMOUS!!! I would absolutely go back to the Turf Club again!
It also had a pretty view-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0134.jpg

Next, we're goin back to the pool and swimmin with the ducks!:thumbsup2

podsnel

06-24-2008, 12:56 PM

We stopped in AP on our way back to the pool to see if all our shopping extravaganza had been delivered yet- well, we got all but 1 bag, the one from 11 pm when I bought tshirts and that photo at EE. But, that's ok, I needed to take a pic of all the pretty lights like everyone else does!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0135.jpg

And also the food we won't be eating today, but would like to some other time...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0136.jpg

We thought it would be nice to sit at a different pool for the rest of the day, but first took these pics of where we had been.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0140.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0142.jpg

The flowers we passed were so pretty- I would really love to be able to plant these at home, but I'm sure the deer would eat them if I did, (the deer eat EVERYTHING in my yard, it's like the Grand Buffet for them over here) so I guess I'll just have to look at my photos...sigh...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0143.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0144.jpg

We dropped our bags off in our room, then went to the Congress Park pool. There was a Mama and 2 ducklings swimming in the pool with everyone!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0146.jpg

The Mama duck was very attentive to her little ones, and kept them next to her the whole time she was there. But she needed to leave for a bit and the Daddy duck showed up to watch the babies. It was so funny. That Daddy duck was all about himself, struttin' his stuff, and those babies were off and on their own!! Mama duck came swooping back in, and, let's just say I don't think Daddy duck was gettin' any that night, if you know what I mean!;) Even Lonnie felt the need to tell him off!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0150.jpg

One more pic, Lonnie in the nice, quiet pool...notice the ducks in the back seem to have made up!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0152.jpg

After a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, we went back to the room to get ready for our trip around the world- and our last night!:sad1:
Here I am, enjoying the view one more time before we leave!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0154.jpg

TigerKat

06-24-2008, 01:46 PM

So sad to see this coming to an end, but I must say you sure do look relaxed in that last picture and that's what a getaway is all about girl!:thumbsup2

podsnel

06-24-2008, 04:00 PM

So sad to see this coming to an end, but I must say you sure do look relaxed in that last picture and that's what a getaway is all about girl!:thumbsup2

Yea, I was nice and relaxed- bourbon at lunch will do that to ya every time!
HICCUP! :lmao: Don't be too sad- I just booked Lonnie and I for trip #2 next May, the 17th to 20th...we're staying AKV Concierge!!! WOOHOO!!!:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
When I called Lonnie to ask her if she would want to go again, she was like, "Are you kidding?". Apparently, she finds experiencing WDW with me therapeutic and relaxing, and says she came home more relaxed than she could have imagined.:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: Really!!!:thumbsup2

TigerKat

06-25-2008, 02:13 PM

Yea, I was nice and relaxed- bourbon at lunch will do that to ya every time!
HICCUP! :lmao: Don't be too sad- I just booked Lonnie and I for trip #2 next May, the 17th to 20th...we're staying AKV Concierge!!! WOOHOO!!!:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
When I called Lonnie to ask her if she would want to go again, she was like, "Are you kidding?". Apparently, she finds experiencing WDW with me therapeutic and relaxing, and says she came home more relaxed than she could have imagined.:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: Really!!!:thumbsup2

Well I surely don't blame her I'd have said "are you kidding" too!! Have fun planning next year.;)

podsnel

06-25-2008, 08:48 PM

Our big night out, drinking around the world in Epcot-WOOHOO!!:banana: :banana: We started out at Planet Earth, which I had saved for later in the day with Lonnie. A friend of mine works for Siemens, and he had gotten us passes to the secret special VIP lounge- which I left back at the room, safely locked in the room safe with my passport...AAAAARGGHHHH!!!!!:scared1: Sorry Rob- hopefully you'll take pity on my airhead and offer me another pass next time which I will grip in my hand like a vice until it is used!!!!

Anyway...

We loved the redo on Planet Earth! I had forgotten about the photo at the end, so that came as a surprise, we didn't realize until after it was taken. What was REALLY surprising was what they did with the photos- Lonnie and I were HYSTERICAL laughing at it!!!!:rotfl2: :rotfl2: I looked like my usual "I'm so happy, I'm at Disney!!":hyper: and Lonnie....well, Lonnie looked like the lobotomy finally TOOK this time, if you know what I'm sayin'! It was the FUNNIEST THING EVAAAARRR!!!!! We got off and sent postcards to everyone we knew, including ourselves, but they haven't come yet- does anyone know when the postcard comes? Well, we could have stood there for hours laughing at ourselves, but we had to get moving!!! We had drinks to consume!!
Here's my very bad redneck photo, hope you can make it out a little-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0157.jpg

We headed out to the World Showcase, stopping to admire the leftover flora and fauna from the F&G Festival-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0160.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0159.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0161.jpg

And Lonnie, with the birds, of course,

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0162.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0166.jpg

We will have to make a point to come during F&G next year, I'd love to see what was in all the booths that were now empty!!

Our first stop on the world tour was Mexico, so we headed inside for a boat ride.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0167.jpg

I just adore the way it feels inside that pyramid! After we rode El Rio de Tiempo... can you guess who we hooked up with?
It's Rita time!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0171.jpg

It was also nacho time, we were hungry- love those Jalepenos!
Of course, we had our new friend with us, and Tink needs a drink!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0172.jpg

Next was Norway, and we stopped to admire the grass roof, which in 10 million visits, I've never noticed before!:scared1: Thank-you, Samantha Brown or girl from the DVC movie, for pointing it out!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0176.jpg

It began to rain. Just a little. Just enough to close Maelstrom, or at least, I think that's why the doors were closed because there was just a smidge of lightening and thunder involved with the rain. We passed on getting a beer, because, sad as it sounds, we thought if we threw beers of the world in with all the other drinks of the world, we'd never find our way home from the world.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0173.jpg

But we traveled on, it was time to enjoy the Joy of Tea. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present the Green Tea Plum Wine Slush-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0178.jpg

Be afraid. Be very afraid. This drink and this drink alone, is why there is no Joy of Tea for me in China in Epcot.:crazy:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0187.jpg

I am sorry if anyone one out there is a fan, and I'm sure there's a green tea slushie fan club out there somewhere drinking these things on a nightly basis, but this, to Lonnie and I, was not good. Tink didn't even want a tiny Tink-sip!!!:tink: But we were in China, and we were so glad to go see the amazing China movie I haven't seen in YEARS and Lonnie had never seen before. While in China, it began to RAIN!!! HARD!!! Like the world was coming to an end!!!:eek: So, we decided to become acquainted with a large group of small men-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0185.jpg

Very interesting story, pretty amazing that they all have a different face, and this is why it is believed each one actually represents a different ACTUAL soldier. I think I memorized each and every one of their faces because we were in China a LOOOOOOOONG time. After days (ok, maybe an hour) we went out into the storm and made our way to the rest of the world-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0186.jpg

Can I just say, I really wish they would add another country to Epcot already. Spain would be nice. Or something from eastern Europe. Or Russia. Weren't they talking about Russia once? Or Kentucky would be good- you know, for the Mint Juleps. Oops, sorry. But thirsty and hungry world travelers need a new country!!! OK, moving on....

Corinne

06-26-2008, 04:59 PM

I was 1 person too late to see Crush (bummer, dude!), but I was hot. I was hungry. I needed...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0126.jpg

Love me some Mickey Ice Cream Bar!!!:thumbsup2

OMG! That was great! I am lol! Great TR, Ellen~ I do have to tell you that until I started reading this TR, I always thought you were a young teenage boy! :)

podsnel

06-26-2008, 09:39 PM

Well I surely don't blame her I'd have said "are you kidding" too!! Have fun planning next year.;)

Well, TigerKat, if she stops saying "are you kidding?" I'll be sure to give you a holler!!!
Thanks, and I soooo will! My FAVORITE thing is the planning...and the dreaming...and then the doing! WOW- love to get away!!! You too?!

OMG! That was great! I am lol! Great TR, Ellen~ I do have to tell you that until I started reading this TR, I always thought you were a young teenage boy! :)

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

First, so glad you are lol! :yay: That is the BEST!!!!:thumbsup2 Second, I am LOL over you thinking I was a teenage boy!!!:rotfl: Just a few weeks ago I was wondering if people thought that was me in my avatar- I had put my DS14 in there when I first signed on to DIS because the photos i put in my sig, at the time, did not include him, and I wanted to make sure he was there. But I think in the morning I will most definitely be switching him out for something else!!! Thanks for being so clear...:goodvibes

addicted2dizney

06-27-2008, 06:22 AM

Love your TR! I have a feeling my TR in Sept is going to be much like this one! My Dis friend and I plan to sample drinks from around the world! Gotta love the Disney Transportation! :)

podsnel

06-27-2008, 11:22 AM

TA-DAA!!!! Look! Now I am either a blonde DW or a hot DH!!! :rotfl:

Love your TR! I have a feeling my TR in Sept is going to be much like this one! My Dis friend and I plan to sample drinks from around the world! Gotta love the Disney Transportation! :)

That is so great that you're going with a DIS friend!!!! Is she from around here too? I have yet to meet anyone from these boards, and I would really like to. That was the one disappointment on this trip- that I didn't meet any dissers!! The closest I came was a guy & his DW wearing matching lime green shirts in AP- so I asked him if they Dised- and he said they looked on it once in a while. Then he said, "I can't believe those people know so much! How do they do it?". And I'm like, WE'RE FREAKIN OBSESSED, MAN!!!!:lmao:
Actually, I just said, "I dunno- isn't it just great." But I SOOOOO wanted to find an addict like myself out there. We're going to Hilton Head at the end of next month and so far I don't think I'll be meeting anyone there, either! But on our cruise in Nov. I'm chatting with plenty of nice people, so I'm looking forward to meeting all of them! And when Lonnie & I go AKV concierge next May, I know of 3 other Dissers who will be there at the same time, so that will be excellent, too.:hyper:

Drinking around the world is great in Epcot- loads of people are doing it, and you keep running into them, so it's like a big progressive party!:thumbsup2 You guys will love it. Next time I'd like to do all the monorail bars!

The whole time I've been writing this there's been the most gorgeous hawk sitting on my deck- I'll post a photo of him later, it's really cool!

TigerKat

06-27-2008, 04:26 PM

Well, TigerKat, if she stops saying "are you kidding?" I'll be sure to give you a holler!!!

:hyper:

Corinne

06-27-2008, 04:56 PM

TA-DAA!!!! Look! Now I am either a blonde DW or a hot DH!!! :rotfl:

Well now I KNOW who you are! Great photo! :thumbsup2

podsnel

06-27-2008, 06:38 PM

Well now I KNOW who you are! Great photo! :thumbsup2

Thanks- I do look great in a tux!:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

cdotla

06-27-2008, 09:09 PM

Wow - what a great way to vacation! I love the idea of a girlfriend trip.

Really enjoying your TR!:goodvibes

podsnel

06-28-2008, 02:04 PM

Wow - what a great way to vacation! I love the idea of a girlfriend trip.

Really enjoying your TR!:goodvibes

It is a WONDERFUL way to vacation that I highly recommend to all girlfriends everywhere!!!:thumbsup2

And thank-you for enjoying- it makes my day!!!:goodvibes

Camster0307

06-28-2008, 02:34 PM

podsnel

06-28-2008, 09:47 PM

Hey podsnel! Have returned from my trip with my DD. Sooo sad it's over!:( Both of my girls are now with their dad until tomorrow night so I get to enjoy catching up with the Dis!

Funny about the "grassy" roof in Norway - I never noticed this before either until I was watching the DVC channel in our room and the girl was sitting on it! Also glad to hear I may not be missing much with those tea slushies in China. They were on my "must-try" list for this trip but I never got one. Seems every time I got around to China I had either a Citron Slushie or a margarita in my hand; and I certainly wasn't going to chug and give myself a brain freeze!:laughing:

So sad to read your TR is coming to an end soon; but good for you to be able to plan another one soon! I'm fortunate enough to be heading back with both daughters in Nov. but I now want to make this trip with my younger DD an annual event. Anyway, I'm working on a trip report myself; hope you'll stop by once I get it started!.

Patiently waiting for your next installment!popcorn::

CAMSTER!!!!! Welcome back!!!
I missed you!! Glad you are getting a night of r-n-r on the DIS after your AMAZING vacay! I am sooo happy you had a great time with DD!!! And I can't WAIT to read about all the fun you had, so you can absolutely count me in as soon as you start!:thumbsup2 And I LOVE that grassy roof!! Such a great thing about the norwegian culture that I never would have known. Yay perky DVC roof girl!!!:rotfl:

OMG, that tea slushie in China- they have GOT to figure something else out!!! It was kind of like gatorade met ....I don't even KNOW what!!!:scared1: Salty/nasty/who-can-throw-it -out-fastest is what it should be called (once again, major apologies to the green tea slushie fan club- you guys ROCK!!!).
Can't wait to hear about the french slushie you had- that's what WE missed- too busy tasting all that wine in France (which is never a BAD thing, I might add!!) so we never got to the Citron or Gran Marinier slushes I was looking foward to- Oh but wait!!! I'm spoiling all the suspense!!:rotfl:

When are you going in Nov? We won't be there for very long, but if we are overlapping, it would be great to hook up!!! Please let me know-

I'll be posting the rest soon, we've had aLOT of baseball recently (not that that will change soon, but that's fine-), more importantly, DS14 is off from school and is having a very rough week. He seemed calmer today by a tiny bit, so it's hopefully a trend. ::yes:: We spent an while today in an HBOT- hoping that will help!!

OK- looking forward to hearing the TR soon-
E

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 09:48 AM

Anyway, I'm working on a trip report myself; hope you'll stop by once I get it started!.

I'll be there!!!

When are you going in Nov? We won't be there for very long, but if we are overlapping, it would be great to hook up!!! Please let me know-

Looks like we'll be just missing each other too, we arrive 11/8?????

Camster0307

06-29-2008, 12:44 PM

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 01:25 PM

Thanks, TigerKat! I hope to be starting it this week.

podsnel - We'll also be checking in on 11/8. What are your dates?

Wouldn't it be great if we could hook up?:yay:

podsnel

06-29-2008, 02:54 PM

I'll be there!!!

Looks like we'll be just missing each other too, we arrive 11/8?????

Thanks, TigerKat! I hope to be starting it this week.

podsnel - We'll also be checking in on 11/8. What are your dates?

Wouldn't it be great if we could hook up?:yay:

I'll be there 11/8!!!!We're staying at OKW that night and leaving on 11/9!!!! OMG, we could DEFINATELY MEET!!!! I'm so excited!!!!:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 02:58 PM

Camster0307

06-29-2008, 03:03 PM

I'll be there 11/8!!!!We're staying at OKW that night and leaving on 11/9!!!! OMG, we could DEFINATELY MEET!!!! I'm so excited!!!!:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Not sure yet what time we're arriving but we are planning on Party For The Senses that night, anyone else?

That would be so cool to finally meet some DISers!:cool1:
(I didn't see any this trip!)

We should be arriving at the BW by noon (flight gets in @10am). Since it's F&W's last weekend, we'll be spending the day at Epcot. Have dinner ADRs with my sister and her family in Mexico that night; so I'm thinking of spending a few hours there in the afternoon, going back to the BW to rest a little, then back to Epcot.

TigerKat - What is the Party For the Senses?

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 03:14 PM

TigerKat - What is the Party For the Senses?

I've never been before but I've heard so much about it. It's held every Saturday during F&WF, here's a link:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=FoodWineEpcotFestivalDiningExperi encesSpecialEventPage#party

podsnel

06-29-2008, 03:27 PM

We have ADR's at California Grill that night- I thought it would be good to spend our last night there, watching the fireworks. I am dying to go to PFTS, it looks amazing, but not with DS11 & DS9- Would anyone want to meet for breakfast on Sunday morning?

Camster0307

06-29-2008, 03:30 PM

I've never been before but I've heard so much about it. It's held every Saturday during F&WF, here's a link:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=FoodWineEpcotFestivalDiningExperi encesSpecialEventPage#party

Ok - so you had me at "25 eminent chefs and the diversity of over 70 wines and beers"!:lmao: Unfortunately, I'll have my two daughters with me and there's no way I could pull that off.

podsnel

06-29-2008, 03:48 PM

Ice cream on Sunday afternoon?

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 03:58 PM

Ice cream on Sunday afternoon?

Where? Downtown Disney would work for me since we're so close and I'm not sure yet when we're arriving. We normally arrive before noon, hopefully Southwest will cooperate with me.:goodvibes.

Never mind, I thought you were talking about Saturday, DUH! Sunday we'll be in EPCOT snacking and drinking around the world so I'm flexible!

podsnel

06-29-2008, 04:50 PM

Where? Downtown Disney would work for me since we're so close and I'm not sure yet when we're arriving. We normally arrive before noon, hopefully Southwest will cooperate with me.:goodvibes.

Never mind, I thought you were talking about Saturday, DUH! Sunday we'll be in EPCOT snacking and drinking around the world so I'm flexible!

Beaches & Cream at the BC? It would be easy for you to get to if you're in Epcot, and Camster? Aren't you at BW? I so want to eat that ice cream with the peanut butter on it- OMG, that looks awesome!!! But I could do DTD on Sat, too, I'll be right there as well. I don't care if it's a bench in a parking lot, we WILL be hooking up!!!:thumbsup2 Good thing we have 4 mos. to figure it out, huh!

Going to see Stevie Nicks tonight at PNC Arts Center- I'm a BIG fan (in high school I thought I WAS Stevie Nicks!:rotfl: :rotfl: ) Talk to you later-
Ellen

TigerKat

06-29-2008, 06:25 PM

Beaches & Cream at the BC? It would be easy for you to get to if you're in Epcot, and Camster? Aren't you at BW? I so want to eat that ice cream with the peanut butter on it- OMG, that looks awesome!!! But I could do DTD on Sat, too, I'll be right there as well. I don't care if it's a bench in a parking lot, we WILL be hooking up!!!:thumbsup2 Good thing we have 4 mos. to figure it out, huh!

Going to see Stevie Nicks tonight at PNC Arts Center- I'm a BIG fan (in high school I thought I WAS Stevie Nicks!:rotfl: :rotfl: ) Talk to you later-
Ellen

OMG I love Stevie Nicks!!!! We need to figure out a way to keep in touch so we can plan our meet, we don't want to lose touch.:confused3

Camster0307

06-29-2008, 08:31 PM

Hey guys! If it were just me and my girls, I could be totally flexible. It's just that I've convinced my mom, sister and her family to extend their trip through tues. so we all could have time together.

Right now though, I've told them that Sat. is a total Epcot/BW day for me. I don't know when we'll be able to check into our room but I want to stay close by for when I can. I'll have alot of older DD's medical stuff to sort through, so I can't wander too far off. As for Sunday, we're either doing AK or DHS, with Sunday night open for a possible Illuminations cruise.

Let's definitely stay in touch - don't worry, I'll remember both of you. Besides, once podsnel's TR ends, I'll have mine to hold us over for a little while at least.

podsnel

06-29-2008, 11:22 PM

Just got home from the concert, and I SHOULD be going to bed, but instead I'm running to the DIS to see what you two have come up with while I was away!!
FYI- Stevie is even better at 60 than you could imagine!!! A really great vibe goes out in her concert- it just feels very love filled there, if that makes any sense! I brought my DF Carol, who really helped me out this year- she was the talent at a wine dinner fundraiser for my DS14's school in february (Carol's a sommelier who is often on NY radio, she used to be with Arthur Schwartz on WOR, she was his side kick) which was very successful and raised a TON for DS' school- $69K to be exact!!!:cool1: Go Carol!!!

ANYWAY....I think we should PM each other and figure out the time that Camster will be at BW hanging out, maybe we could all meet there for a bit? Especially, if Tigerkat, you're headed to Epcot that night. I have some flexibility, Pods (my DH) will be with the boys so I could head over for a little while at some point and they could....do whatever they want!:thumbsup2

Really, by the garbage can at the bridge works for me, as long as I get to meet you two!!!:yay: :yay:

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 09:07 AM

Someone posted some really cool videos of Party for the Senses(post 190), I'm really excited now:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25954015#post25954015

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 05:21 PM

Someone posted some really cool videos of Party for the Senses(post 190), I'm really excited now:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25954015#post25954015

Oh, TigerKat, that does look fun! I don't know why I keep bringing my kids with me on my Disney vacations!:headache:

I haven't seen a price listed anywhere. I won't be able to do this, but just curious as to the cost.

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 06:04 PM

Oh, TigerKat, that does look fun! I don't know why I keep bringing my kids with me on my Disney vacations!:headache:

I haven't seen a price listed anywhere. I won't be able to do this, but just curious as to the cost.

This is our first trip without our son, he starts college this fall. So we're really looking forward to it.:love:

I may be mistaken but I think the price is around $125 per person.

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 06:44 PM

Hi Everyone!

Kathy, Pointed me to your Trippie. Kat and I have been great friends on the DIS for quite some time and I will be in WDW the same time as all of you so, if you don't mind, I would love to join you.

I can't really think straight at this point. I had 2 biopsies today on my thyroid...yeah, I should be resting, but can't tear myself from the DIS!

I am also in NJ!

Be back later! Have a great night!

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 06:47 PM

Kat - Sounds like you may be outnumbered by Jersey girls!:laughing:

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 06:50 PM

Lauren - Hey my best buddy!!!! Feel better soon.:hug:

Ellen - I'm sure you & Lauren have a lot in common, both in Jersey and both loving alcohol......:laughing:

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 06:51 PM

Kat - Sounds like you may be outnumbered by Jersey girls!:laughing:

I'm ready to turn them into Southern ladies......well maybe not ladies, more like lushes....:lmao:

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 06:58 PM

Wait a minute...Camster...you're originally from NJ right?

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 07:08 PM

Wait a minute...Camster...you're originally from NJ right?

You got it - born and raised in Bayonne! (but don't hold that against me!)

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 07:10 PM

I'm ready to turn them into Southern ladies......well maybe not ladies, more like lushes....:lmao:

Shall I mention that you are now drinking Redneck Sangria and even got me drinking an even more Redneck version? :rotfl:

You got it - born and raised in Bayonne! (but don't hold that against me!)

As long as you don't hold it against me that I'm originally from Secaucus!

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 07:13 PM

Shall I mention that you are now drinking Redneck Sangria and even got me drinking an even more Redneck version? :rotfl:

Too funny & so true!!!!:lmao:

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 07:24 PM

As long as you don't hold it against me that I'm originally from Secaucus!

Secaucus?! I used to have meetings in Harmon Meadow - is it still there? And cannot forget about those outlets!

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 07:27 PM

Secaucus?! I used to have meetings in Harmon Meadow - is it still there? And cannot forget about those outlets!

Yes, Harmon Meadow is still there. I worked in the 200 Plaza Drive Bldg for about 4 years. The town has grown so much I have panic attacks just driving around there.

They just tore down Mill Creek Mall...that area is building up too fast. It seems like yesterday it was all swamps...or as my Mom would say, Pig farms!

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 07:29 PM

I just knew if I got her(Lauren) over here this would happen:rolleyes1 ......LOVE IT!!!:thumbsup2

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 07:40 PM

I just knew if I got her(Lauren) over here this would happen:rolleyes1 ......LOVE IT!!!:thumbsup2

The more crazy DISers getting together the better! ;) Thanks for inviting me over!

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 07:44 PM

Yes, Harmon Meadow is still there. I worked in the 200 Plaza Drive Bldg for about 4 years. The town has grown so much I have panic attacks just driving around there.

They just tore down Mill Creek Mall...that area is building up too fast. It seems like yesterday it was all swamps...or as my Mom would say, Pig farms!

I worked for the Equitable in their home office in NYC; but their Northeast Op. offices were in HM - on Plaza Drive - it was during 1987-91, I think.

You should see what they've done in Bayonne! They have finally got a rail system and now it's considered "trendy" to live along the water there! My memories of that area are just Ewwwww!

I just knew if I got her(Lauren) over here this would happen:rolleyes1 ......LOVE IT!!!:thumbsup2

Put a bunch of Jersey girls in a room.............and let the good times roll!:dance3:

Hey, don't mean to hijack Ellen's thread, but I've started my trippie! Check it out when you get a chance!

podsnel

06-30-2008, 07:50 PM

Hey! How ya doin Lauren!!! So glad you're joining us!! :banana: LOVE all these Jersey girls- and, of course, the southern lady, too!!;) But what's redneck sangria? Should I be afraid to ask?:rotfl:

podsnel

06-30-2008, 07:51 PM

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 07:51 PM

Hey! How ya doin Lauren!!! So glad you're joining us!! :banana: LOVE all these Jersey girls- and, of course, the southern lady, too!!;) But what's redneck sangria? Should I be afraid to ask?:rotfl:

Yeah - I'm a little scared to know the answer to that one also! May be one of those times where it's best not to know what's in it - just drink it!:rotfl:

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 07:57 PM

I worked for the Equitable in their home office in NYC; but their Northeast Op. offices were in HM - on Plaza Drive - it was during 1987-91, I think.

You should see what they've done in Bayonne! They have finally got a rail system and now it's considered "trendy" to live along the water there! My memories of that area are just Ewwwww!

Put a bunch of Jersey girls in a room.............and let the good times roll!:dance3:

Hey, don't mean to hijack Ellen's thread, but I've started my trippie! Check it out when you get a chance!

Holy Crap! I worked for the Equitable in Legal and Tech Analysis from about 86 - 90!!! I would go to NYC once in a while. This was PT while in HS and college, then they gave me a leave of absence to do the College Program. Small Freakin world!

Hey! How ya doin Lauren!!! So glad you're joining us!! :banana: LOVE all these Jersey girls- and, of course, the southern lady, too!!;) But what's redneck sangria? Should I be afraid to ask?:rotfl:

Hi! I am sorry to babble up your thread...Its Kathy's fault! I love my NOLA girl!

Redneck Sangria...

I posted a pic from my recent trip of my balcony at OKW with some cocktails we enjoy: Vodka and Fresca. Well, everyone loved that idea and wanted to know if sprite worked too. Then I mentioned to Kat that I add sprite to red wine for a mock sangria...well, she renamed it Redneck Sangria...then I renamed what I am now drinking Really Redneck Sangria...I am out of sprite or Fresca so I am using diet coke. its quite good! :goodvibes

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 08:10 PM

I'll let you Jersey gals have fun, I'm going to check out Cammie's TR.... LOVE all of y'all!:goodvibes

FormrCastMbr

06-30-2008, 08:11 PM

I'll let you Jersey gals have fun, I'm going to check out Cammie's TR.... LOVE all of y'all!:goodvibes

If I can be an honorary NOLA girl, you're then an honorary Jersey Girl! :hug:

Camster0307

06-30-2008, 08:14 PM

Holy Crap! I worked for the Equitable in Legal and Tech Analysis from about 86 - 90!!! I would go to NYC once in a while. This was PT while in HS and college, then they gave me a leave of absence to do the College Program. Small Freakin world!

Yikes! I started with them in 1986, after college; worked for Conf.Operations. Left in '92 to move up to Mass.!

Hi! I am sorry to babble up your thread...Its Kathy's fault! I love my NOLA girl!

Redneck Sangria...

I posted a pic from my recent trip of my balcony at OKW with some cocktails we enjoy: Vodka and Fresca. Well, everyone loved that idea and wanted to know if sprite worked too. Then I mentioned to Kat that I add sprite to red wine for a mock sangria...well, she renamed it Redneck Sangria...then I renamed what I am now drinking Really Redneck Sangria...I am out of sprite or Fresca so I am using diet coke. its quite good! :goodvibes

That was me who asked about the Sprite. I then recommended the Sprite with Stoli-O!

When I was first out of college and poor, we used to drink Sprite with Peach Riunite! (Not sure if I'm spelling that right)

TigerKat

06-30-2008, 08:39 PM

If I can be an honorary NOLA girl, you're then an honorary Jersey Girl! :hug:
It's a deal!;)

podsnel

07-01-2008, 08:39 PM

Holy Crap! I worked for the Equitable in Legal and Tech Analysis from about 86 - 90!!! I would go to NYC once in a while. This was PT while in HS and college, then they gave me a leave of absence to do the College Program. Small Freakin world!

Hi! I am sorry to babble up your thread...Its Kathy's fault! I love my NOLA girl!

Redneck Sangria...

I posted a pic from my recent trip of my balcony at OKW with some cocktails we enjoy: Vodka and Fresca. Well, everyone loved that idea and wanted to know if sprite worked too. Then I mentioned to Kat that I add sprite to red wine for a mock sangria...well, she renamed it Redneck Sangria...then I renamed what I am now drinking Really Redneck Sangria...I am out of sprite or Fresca so I am using diet coke. its quite good! :goodvibes

WOW! You were in the college program?!!!!:worship: How excellent is THAT!!! I wish I would have known about that program when I went to college...although who knows if they even did it then!

I LOVE fresca!!! We like a drink similar to fresca and vodka- it's called Ting with a Sting- it's from St. Kitts, made with CSR (which is clear like vodka but made out of sugarcane) and Ting soda (grapefruit soda from Jamaica, I think). Really refreshing. My cousin knows someone who has a house in St Kitts and they keep bringing the CSR back for us!:thumbsup2
Thanks for filling us in on the Redneck Sangrias- I never would have guessed!!

podsnel

07-01-2008, 09:09 PM

The rain let up just enough for us to escape from China, and we quickly made our way to Germany. Time for some wine! This guy measured VERY CAREFULLY!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0191.jpg

When I was Segwaying around Germany that morning, the guide had told us that the 4 guys on top of the building were all Hapsburg princes, and one of them had a hidden Mickey. Can you find Mickey?

Disney Hapsburg Prince:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0190.jpg

Hapsburg Prince I met in Florence, Italy 2 years ago:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/ItalyGeisselbirthdays-092.jpg

(I had to put that in, I mean, how often do you meet a Hapsburg Prince?)
Next, for something different, it started to rain!!! So we perused the candy store:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0195.jpg

When we had had enough of the cuckoo clocks and Christmas ornaments, we headed over to Italy for more Vino poured by these 2 lovely CMs.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0199.jpg

In Italy we met a bunch of people who were all on the Drinks around the world tour. SOME had been touring longer than others- I think maybe they were doing the Around the World for every drink + 4 in every country tour, but I clearly am no one to judge! :rotfl: There was a guy with his younger brother who we ran into everywhere after that, along with a few others. I'll bring up the younger bro later- so don't forget we met him here! This is what made the tour so fun- it was like a big progressive party, where you kept on seeing the same friendly faces in every country- loved that! The rain broke for a bit, so we moved on- here's one of the tourists with a beer sample from Germany-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0200.jpg

LOVE that sky!!!

Camster0307

07-01-2008, 09:26 PM

podsnel

07-01-2008, 10:03 PM

Oooh! Oooh! I found the hidden Mickey!

(It's in his crown)

That was a beautiful shot of the sky. And how fun to run into the same crowd drinking around the world. Don't you love that about Disney? Everyone is so friendly!

And, as far as that college program, I've told DD she MUST do it (although she admits she really does want to!); and I shall move down here with her and be her housekeeper. Or whatever. I just want to live down there and enjoy the perks of being related to a CM!:laughing:

You are too smart!:thumbsup2

Yes, everyone is friendly- sometimes TOO much so...:rotfl: But that's nice, too, I guess... Makes for a good story when you get home and start posting on DIS!

Yea, ever since I heard about that college program, I've been telling my kids they have to do it too! I'm with you, sister- I just want those perks of being related to a CM!!:lmao:

Funny- you were reading & posting on my TR while I was reading and posting on yours!:goodvibes

TigerKat

07-02-2008, 07:06 AM

How much fun that must have been!!!! Drinking around the world and partying with a friendly group of folks. Doesn't get much better than that.:thumbsup2

TigerKat

07-02-2008, 03:30 PM

Ellen - I booked my flight today, we'll be arriving on the 8th at 9:30 which should put us at POFQ by noon and heading to Downtown Disney by 1:00!!!

Camster0307

07-02-2008, 04:25 PM

-Yes, everyone is friendly- sometimes TOO much so...:rotfl: But that's nice, too, I guess... Makes for a good story when you get home and start posting on DIS!......

Hey, don't forget - I'm single! Don't mind meeting some friendly Disney men - as long as they're not TOO friendly - and they're buying!:laughing:

Ellen - I booked my flight today, we'll be arriving on the 8th at 9:30 which should put us at POFQ by noon and heading to Downtown Disney by 1:00!!!

My flight gets in at 10am on the 8th! (that's if Delta doesn't change the time too much on me!) Are you going to be at Epcot on Sat. also? And when is Lauren getting in?

TigerKat

07-02-2008, 04:30 PM

My flight gets in at 10am on the 8th! (that's if Delta doesn't change the time too much on me!) Are you going to be at Epcot on Sat. also? And when is Lauren getting in?

We're probably going to head to Downtown Disney when we get to POFQ, then head over to EPCOT around 5 or 6 or whenever we plan a MEET!

Lauren will be arriving on the 5th, I think, so she'll have a few days on us. I told her I expect her to meet me at POFQ with drink in hand.:lmao:

Camster0307

07-02-2008, 04:33 PM

We're probably going to head to Downtown Disney when we get to POFQ, then head over to EPCOT around 5 or 6 or whenever we plan a MEET!

Lauren will be arriving on the 5th, I think, so she'll have a few days on us. I told her I expect her to meet me at POFQ with drink in hand.:lmao:

Is she staying at the same resort as you?

TigerKat

07-02-2008, 04:39 PM

Is she staying at the same resort as you?

No but she'll be close, she's at SSR.:cool1:

podsnel

07-02-2008, 08:40 PM

No but she'll be close, she's at SSR.:cool1:

And I'm at OKW, right in the middle! It's like a DTD trifecta with a splash of BW!:goodvibes

podsnel

07-02-2008, 09:09 PM

I hope you guys are all watching Dinner Impossible on Food Network right now- it's GREAT!!!:thumbsup2

Camster0307

07-02-2008, 09:39 PM

I hope you guys are all watching Dinner Impossible on Food Network right now- it's GREAT!!!:thumbsup2

No, I was watching some trash TV - the Baby Borrowers. It's hysterical! The advertising - "It's not a TV show; it's birth control!":lmao:

podsnel

07-03-2008, 09:21 AM

A tiny break in the rain- so now it was rain and not RAIN!- and we were able to run to Japan. Can you say, SAKE?!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0201.jpg

Japan is just so pretty, so well done, don't ya think?

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0204.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0205.jpg

Especially when the RAIN! starts back up. Because then you can head inside Japan for SERIOUS shopping and, of course, everyone's favorite...

TIN IN SPACE!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0202.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0203.jpg

We run into our fellow travelers again, and say hello, then jump over to Morocco. Morocco is also exceptionally beautiful at night, the lighting is gorgeous. On the Segway tour, the guide told us that all the countries in Epcot are sponsored by companies- except for Morocco, which was commissioned by the King. He personally sent over craftsmen from his country to build everything authentically, including piecing together all those mosaics everywhere, one teeny tiny tile at a time! He also told us that their religion does not permit any replicas of animals, plants- nothing living, because only God can create that.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0209.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0210.jpg

Deciding we're hungry, ok, I'M HUNGRY!, we order a Shawarma chicken & lamb platter which was DELICIOUS! Also some red wine-:tinker:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0211.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0212.jpg

So we're sitting in the Tangierine Cafe, and the little brother of the tour comes in. We say hi- and he says, "Hey, drinks around the world- you gotta do it! You should try it!!" And we're like, "ummmm....haven't we just seen you like 50 times in the last hour?":lmao: Then he says, "Hey, I'm hungry, what're you two eating?" As we're telling him, "It's the lamb and chicken" little brother starts eating off our plate!!!:lmao: :lmao: Good thing we were done, I guess!!!:scared1: Then he says, "yea, you know I'm totally open to anything, like if you two were interested in being in a sugar momma situation, I'm good with that!":rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: OMG, this was just too funny! Well, we decided to pass on the offer, but were happy to give up our table to a fine young college student, nonetheless. TOO FUNNY!

TigerKat

07-03-2008, 10:30 AM

:lmao: :rotfl2: OMG, that is too much!!! I was wondering where you were going with the "Sugar Mommas" title.......:laughing:

podsnel

07-03-2008, 09:18 PM

Hey, don't forget - I'm single! Don't mind meeting some friendly Disney men - as long as they're not TOO friendly - and they're buying!:laughing:

My flight gets in at 10am on the 8th! (that's if Delta doesn't change the time too much on me!) Are you going to be at Epcot on Sat. also? And when is Lauren getting in?

Hey! See? They're TOO friendly and they want YOU to buy!!!:rotfl:

I just wanted to add something i forgot about Japan, but was reminded of listening to the Podcast- I got my Sake outside, where there is no choice, other than do you want hot or cold? INSIDE the shop is where you want to have the sake...a NICE size bar, and MANY choices- this is where I'll have sake next time!!:cheer2: We saw it, but it was too late, we were already sake-ing!!

Camster0307

07-03-2008, 09:24 PM

Oh Ellen - I meant to respond to this earlier; but I cracked up at the "sugar mamma" comment!:rotfl2: I never meet men like that when I'm in Disney! (probably doesn't help much that I'm carting around two kids!)

And, BTW, you look groovy in your poncho!:thumbsup2

jeminni

07-03-2008, 09:35 PM

I just found your TR, I love it. :goodvibes

podsnel

07-03-2008, 10:26 PM

I just found your TR, I love it. :goodvibes

Hi Jeminni!! I'm so happy you're here!:flower3: Love your sig- sang that song to DS14 every night when he was DS itty-bitty!!

Oh Ellen - I meant to respond to this earlier; but I cracked up at the "sugar mamma" comment!:rotfl2: I never meet men like that when I'm in Disney! (probably doesn't help much that I'm carting around two kids!)

And, BTW, you look groovy in your poncho!:thumbsup2

Yes, we've decided the Disney poncho is THE fashion statement to make! Look at the men it attracts!!:lmao: :lmao: It's like a freakin man magnet!!!:rotfl: :rotfl: Go ahead and TRY to keep them away-I'm sure if you wear one in November (ESPECIALLY if it doesn't rain!!!) you'll attract some too!! It's just toooo SEXY!!!:thumbsup2 :rotfl2:

Camster0307

07-04-2008, 09:09 AM

Yes, we've decided the Disney poncho is THE fashion statement to make! Look at the men it attracts!!:lmao: :lmao: It's like a freakin man magnet!!!:rotfl: :rotfl: Go ahead and TRY to keep them away-I'm sure if you wear one in November (ESPECIALLY if it doesn't rain!!!) you'll attract some too!! It's just toooo SEXY!!!:thumbsup2 :rotfl2:

Unfortunately, the Disney poncho made many appearances during my recent trip - it rained just about every day! What's worse is that I was still using the old yellow Disney ponchos they used to sell - you're not stylin' until you put on a bright yellow poncho!:thumbsup2

DD finally convinced me to trash them (they lasted 6 years) and we're now proud owners of the clear ones!

FormrCastMbr

07-04-2008, 09:19 AM

Hi Guys! Happy 4th of July!

Ellen, I still have to go back and read your thread. The Sugar Mama thing had me :rotfl: !

As far as ponchos go, I am the nerd of the group...after spending $21 for 3 of them a few years ago, I headed to Walmart and bought several for $0.87/each and they are packed every trip. We used them for the first time a few weeks ago and they worked out fine. I have since gone and bought more to replensih what we used! :thumbsup2

Have a great day!

TigerKat

07-04-2008, 09:26 AM

As far as ponchos go, I am the nerd of the group...after spending $21 for 3 of them a few years ago, I headed to Walmart and bought several for $0.87/each and they are packed every trip. We used them for the first time a few weeks ago and they worked out fine. I have since gone and bought more to replensih what we used! :thumbsup2

Have a great day!

And I thought I did good getting them at the Dollar Store!:rotfl:

FormrCastMbr

07-04-2008, 09:30 AM

And I thought I did good getting them at the Dollar Store!:rotfl:

Jeez, you are my twin!

podsnel

07-04-2008, 11:57 AM

And I thought I did good getting them at the Dollar Store!:rotfl:

I had those dollar store ones when I went in November with my family!! :rotfl:

podsnel

07-04-2008, 12:22 PM

Unfortunately, the Disney poncho made many appearances during my recent trip - it rained just about every day! What's worse is that I was still using the old yellow Disney ponchos they used to sell - you're not stylin' until you put on a bright yellow poncho!:thumbsup2

DD finally convinced me to trash them (they lasted 6 years) and we're now proud owners of the clear ones!

Sorry you had to use your ponchos so much on your trip- I just heard them say on the podcast (which I listen to while I'm cooking so I don't go through withdrawals) that the rain this summer has been much crazier and heavier than usual. That's what Lonnie kept saying that night (she lives 2 hrs away in Florida) that it NEVER rains so much all at once.

Hi Guys! Happy 4th of July!

Ellen, I still have to go back and read your thread. The Sugar Mama thing had me :rotfl: !
As far as ponchos go, I am the nerd of the group...after spending $21 for 3 of them a few years ago, I headed to Walmart and bought several for $0.87/each and they are packed every trip. We used them for the first time a few weeks ago and they worked out fine. I have since gone and bought more to replensih what we used! :thumbsup2

Have a great day!

Happy 4th! The sugar momma thing had us :rotfl: too!! Much different than my usual Disney trip with DH and our 3 boys!!

podsnel

07-07-2008, 10:52 AM

Hi! Hope everyone had a great 4th of July weekend! We had lots of parties and lots of baseball...

I threw a party for my bunco group & spouses. Rita was the guest of honor!:drinking1 I made pomegranate, passion fruit, and regular Ritas.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_070506summer0141.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_070506summer0148.jpg

Here's DH and DS9 on their way to the District tournament- we all LOVE that our DH's have to wear the pinstripes for this tournament!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_070506summer0158.jpg

And lastly, here's the hawk I mentioned the other day that was hanging on my deck-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_070506summer0074.jpg

For some reason I can't get the pic of DH & DS to go upright on this board! Oh well... hopefully it will straighten out-

podsnel

07-07-2008, 11:26 AM

Still laughing from Morocco's experience, we stood outside because it was time for Illuminations. While we waited for the show to start, Lonnie lit a torch- here she is, Loni, Goddess of Fire!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0208.jpg

The fireworks were spectacular, I liked taking photos of them with my new camera because it has a fireworks setting.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0218.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/th_2008_060506summer0220.jpg (http://s246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/?action=view&current=2008_060506summer0220.flv)

Next up, we were on to France- Hooray once again for nighttime EMH!!! Since we had a few hours to go, we decided to drink ALL the wine in France. We were in here for a LONG time, but it was very enjoyable and by choice!! The CM was named Julien, he told us about where he was from in France and was interesting to talk to. He even let Lonnie come behind the bar for a photo, and he arranged all the bottles and glasses for the pic- obviously, this was not his first time!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0221.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0222.jpg

I usually drink Italian wine at home, but I LOVE french wine, too. The pouilly fume we drank last was really really good.

After all the wine, Julien suggested we get Irish Coffees in England. So...we did!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0223.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0225.jpg

They helped us wake up and get a second wind...
By now, the park was SOOOO empty, I think all the rain earlier just finally got to everyone, so they left. But not us! We were here until midnight, with the park mostly to ourselves.

I'll continue later in the next post!

TigerKat

07-07-2008, 11:46 AM

Love the Loni, goddess of fire one!:lmao: Great pic of DH & DS!!

Camster0307

07-07-2008, 01:58 PM

Hey Ellen - thanks for the pix from your "regular" life! Looks like my kind of party was going on there!

I always intend to try more wine when I get around to the France pavillion, but those Grey Goose slushies always seem to be calling my name! :laughing: I did have a glass of the Pouilly Fuisse at dinner (which, coincidentally, is my next post in my TR) - loved it. I need to remember to purchase a bottle of my first night in Nov. so I can enjoy some back at the room for the rest of the week!

And, those Irish Coffees looked delicious!

podsnel

07-08-2008, 07:00 AM

Love the Loni, goddess of fire one!:lmao: Great pic of DH & DS!!

Thanks! I wish they would turn upright!

Hey Ellen - thanks for the pix from your "regular" life! Looks like my kind of party was going on there!

I always intend to try more wine when I get around to the France pavillion, but those Grey Goose slushies always seem to be calling my name! :laughing: I did have a glass of the Pouilly Fuisse at dinner (which, coincidentally, is my next post in my TR) - loved it. I need to remember to purchase a bottle of my first night in Nov. so I can enjoy some back at the room for the rest of the week!

And, those Irish Coffees looked delicious!

I REALLY wanted to try those slushies- but we LUSHIES can only drink so much! I'll make sure I get one on my next trip.

podsnel

07-08-2008, 03:14 PM

Due to the lack of people in the park, Lonnie, Tink and I were able to get a nice table outside with no problem.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0227.jpg

A group of women sitting next to us was having a girls' night out, too, they were good to chat with.:goodvibes But they were going back and forth to France for their wine- :confused3 Don't they drink wine in England?
Oh well, we still have Canada ahead, so we took a walk, taking some nighttime snapshots on the way...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0231.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0242.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0232.jpg

OK, so where is the ice wine in Canada at 11:30 at night? Can someone please let me know, because we never found it. Was it a kiosk they close? Oh well, we still wanted to go see Oh Canada, so we headed to the theatre after walking around the well watered gardens for a bit. When we arrived, there was a family of 3 waiting for the last showing, so we stood there with them for a few minutes, feeling so sad about our last country's lack of beverages, or our complete inability to locate them!:sad: So we sat and waited and waited... :idea:

Ya know, I think they DO have wine in England, they MUST have wine in England, and I think it is our job to PROVE they have wine in England. I mean, really, how can we LIVE with ourselves if we never know?!?! (This is some thought process we have, huh?) So, even though we felt so strongly about watching Oh Canada with that lovely little family of 3 or 4, we also felt it was our duty as world class drinkers to solve this puzzle of a lifetime.

I step up to the bar and place an order..
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0243.jpg

SURPRISE AND SHOCK!!! THERE IS WINE IN ENGLAND!!!! GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!!!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0245.jpg

Ok, so I can't say we drank in every country- there was Norway, which we skipped, and China, which we dumped- and Canada, which we couldn't figure out...but, all in all, I'd say it was a very successful first attempt at a World tour of drinks around the countries, right?

Next up, we take our time leaving the park.

TigerKat

07-08-2008, 03:32 PM

we also felt it was our duty as world class drinkers to solve this puzzle of a lifetime.

:lmao:

Camster0307

07-08-2008, 03:51 PM

podsnel

07-09-2008, 11:04 AM

Great installment, Ellen! I swear, I need to remember to take my Tink out with me next time; we usually collect two or three over the course of the week and they get left in the room. Another cute use I saw for them - girls were putting them in their hair if they had their hair up!

And - there is a kiosk in Canada, not sure if they sell wine at it; but I have had Canadian wine in LeCellier and it's pretty good. Anyway, I never saw that kiosk open when DD and I were there either. I mean, WTH? It's pm extra magic hours - why else would we be in WS that late if not to try the beverages!:laughing:

Cammie! Tink needs to be a part of the festivities, too!! Nobody puts Tink in a corner!!:rotfl: That's a great idea about the hair clip- I will be making a point of doing that next trip!

We took the boys to Niagara Falls last summer (hit Cooperstown on the way) and one of the days we went over to Niagara on the Lake to ride the whirlpool jetboat ( now, THAT was a thrill ride!!! Such a blast!). Afterwards we walked around the town. NOTL is known for their restaurants and wineries- it is incredibly beautiful there, the gardens are GORGEOUS and plentiful, it would be an amazing place for an adult trip. Someone on trip advisor had a great idea for us; DH took the kids for ice cream and I went into one of the wine shops, did a tasting, and purchased 1/2 case of Sauvignon blanc, 1 sparkling wine, and a bottle of ice wine. Their wines up there are very fruity, they go really well with Asian food. Would have loved to try some in Epcot, but there's always next time, right? Maybe we'll hit the countries backwards next time- maybe by the end of the night, the green tea plum slushie will taste better!!!:lmao:

podsnel

07-10-2008, 07:21 AM

Soo sad!!! We didn't want it to end- this was our last night, after all, so we were in no rush for it to be over. So we celebrated having a had a great night by Lonnie doing this...

YIPEE!!! I CONQUERED THE WORLD!!!:yay:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0250.jpg

Followed by some introspective meditation among the twinkly sidewalk lights...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0257.jpg

Tink and I said goodbye to the golf ball...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0259.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0261.jpg

And then we headed back to SSR. When we arrived, we decided it looked too pretty at night not to go out and enjoy it,
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0264.jpg

so we went for a walk by the lake.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0265.jpg

I think no one does a more impressive job of nightscaping than the Mouse. Everything at night in WDW is as pretty as it could be, truly, it never disappoints.

We went back to our room and sat out on our patio to enjoy our amazing view one last time. And have a champagne nightcap to toast our amazing vacation!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0269.jpg

Next- our last day, power shopping in DTD!! And what IS in the ceiling at the airport?:scared:

TigerKat

07-10-2008, 07:38 AM

You are so right about the nightscaping, it is truly magical!:thumbsup2

podsnel

07-14-2008, 08:10 AM

Our last day...why does it always have to go so freakin' fast when you're in Disney?!! Well, so ok, this WAS a fast trip, but still...we rolled out of our beds (which we had slept in like LOGS after our World conquest the night before) and packed up our stuff. Headed over to AP for coffee, and went back to the room. I think Lonnie still had more to pack up and also wanted to check in online for her class, so I went ahead and did what I had wanted to do all week- go and see what the progress was on that Super-Walmart that's being built over there at the Contemporary!!:rotfl: I decided the best way to do it was to park and ride the monorail (especially because I had not ridden the monorail this trip and that is just plain WRONG!). I'm such a GEEK!
But first I dropped off my luggage at the ME counter. Which was great, because I was the only customer and it took all of 30 seconds- NICE!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0274-1.jpg

Although I've never stayed at the Contemporary, I'm VERY interested in what's going up there because I want to do an add-on to our DVC points and if not at a Super Walmart, then where?!:lmao: My DS14 really loves MK, and what could be better than walking there for him in our future. (Plus, staying on the monorail makes for a whole NEW drinking tour- the bars-of-the-monorail-tour! WOOHOO!!:cheer2: :dance3: ) Not to mention all the great restaurants around there along with all those cool watersports... but, of course, they haven't announced anything yet, this is all speculation, so if, for example, it turns out to be a super Kmart, all bets are off!

When I got back to SSR, Lonnie was ready to load up her car, and we decided to drive over to DTD. We had an ADR for lunch at Fulton's. Lonnie had requested to eat here on our last afternoon, and I was VERY glad to comply with her request! We were just a few minutes early for our 11:30 ADR, which was fine with them. First things first, we ordered Bloody Mary's (I wonder why:rolleyes1 ?.....).

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0277.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0281.jpg

OMG, the Bloodys at Fulton's are FABULOUS!!!!!! Lots of horseradish, spice, they are just PERFECTION! We had many things to choose from on the menu:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0280.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0279.jpg

Our waiter here was excellent, very funny and extremely helpful in helping us choose. In the end we both picked the Crab & Lobster Bisque, then Lonnie had a Blue Crab Cake and I had a Blue Lump Crab Club.

First, he (Michael?) brought out their Crab Boursin with flatbread crackers and a loaf of delish bread with some Yummy butter. He followed with the soups, which were presented so nicely, poured for us individually-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0285.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0286.jpg

Oh, that soup is incredible. It's raining here today, and I really, really wish that waiter would walk through my front door and pour me a bowl right now. What do you think my chances are?:confused3 Then our entrees- the crabcake and my crab club-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0289.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0288.jpg

These were both very good. But, I have to say, I think I liked the crabcake at the turfclub better- this was a wet crabcake, turfclub's was drier. My club sandwich was good, but probably there could have been a little less lettuce. Anyway, we had a gorgeous view to enjoy while we gobbled up all of our food-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0282.jpg

Boats kept going by, and I took this one to show my boys:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0284.jpg

When we come in November, we'll be staying at OKW the night after the cruise and I'd like to get those sea racers with them to race around the lake. DS11 is excited that in 1 more year, he'll be able to drive his own!

Df Lonnie picked up the tab- isn't that so nice?:cutie: Thanks for a great lunch, Lonnie! I took a couple restaurant pics, and then we went out to do some SHOPPING!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0278.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0290.jpg

TigerKat

07-14-2008, 09:33 AM

LOVE the bars of the monorail tour idea!!!:thumbsup2

Oh my word does that Bloody Mary look incredible!!!! We're going to be close to DTD, we may have to make a daily trip over there.;)

Camster0307

07-14-2008, 10:07 AM

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0290.jpg

That's the EXACT spot I sat at the bar, enjoying my PopRocks Martini just a few short weeks ago - :cloud9:!

Great pix of Fulton's, Ellen! I swear, it's one of the few restaurants at Disney wouldn't mind eating at more than once during our stays - love it!

Camster0307

07-14-2008, 10:09 AM

LOVE the bars of the monorail tour idea!!!:thumbsup2

Honestly, my brother and I made somewhat of an attempt to do this two years ago. Now with the standardized drink menus in all the resorts, it wasn't all it's cracked up to be. Drinking around the World is much more fun!

(but, hey, I'll suck it up and give it another try!)

Camster0307

07-14-2008, 10:16 AM

And one more post from me........thought you'd guys be interested in what a Disfriend of mine found on the creative design boards:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg91/disney_michelle/drink.jpg

cdotla

07-14-2008, 05:33 PM

OMG - this trippie is an absolute hoot!

Lovin' it!!!

TigerKat

07-14-2008, 05:41 PM

(but, hey, I'll suck it up and give it another try!)

:rotfl2: Love the other post with the checklist for Around the World!!:thumbsup2

podsnel

07-15-2008, 07:36 AM

LOVE the bars of the monorail tour idea!!!:thumbsup2

Oh my word does that Bloody Mary look incredible!!!! We're going to be close to DTD, we may have to make a daily trip over there.;)

I think we should warn Fulton's to stock up on tomato juice and vodka in November!!:rotfl:

That's the EXACT spot I sat at the bar, enjoying my PopRocks Martini just a few short weeks ago - :cloud9:!

Great pix of Fulton's, Ellen! I swear, it's one of the few restaurants at Disney wouldn't mind eating at more than once during our stays - love it!

That's cool! I agree, I would go back in a heartbeat- it's a wonderful place. But then, I would pretty much go back to most of the restaurants we ate at this trip-

Honestly, my brother and I made somewhat of an attempt to do this two years ago. Now with the standardized drink menus in all the resorts, it wasn't all it's cracked up to be. Drinking around the World is much more fun!

(but, hey, I'll suck it up and give it another try!)

Now this makes me so sad- I had read about it on another thread. Is it absolutely true? Are all the bars the same? I HATE that!!! What IS that food & bev manager thinking in WDW. We want variety!!! We want special stuff we can only get in one place!!! That's what motivates us to go!!!!

OMG - this trippie is an absolute hoot!

Lovin' it!!!

Hi Cdotla! I'm so happy you're lovin' it- and I'm so sad I'm almost done writing it!!!:sad1: But I've got to finish up- I leave for HHIR in less than 2 weeks, and I don't want to confuse that trippie with this trippie (although, how could i confuse this extravaganza with anything else-right?);)

podsnel

07-15-2008, 07:49 AM

And one more post from me........thought you'd guys be interested in what a Disfriend of mine found on the creative design boards:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg91/disney_michelle/drink.jpg

Ok, now THIS gorgeous thing- this is REALLY special.:love: :love: :love: I think we should all print it out, laminate it, and carry it with us on ALL Epcot trips in our futures. Then take the pledge-

"I, state your name, do solemnly swear, to drink each of these drinks, to the best of my ability, over the course of many fun and frolicsome visits to World Showcase, as long as I have breath left in me and plenty of change in my pocket. In honor of the mouse!"

Or actually, maybe if we drink all the drinks, we'll need to be taking ANOTHER kind of pledge....;)

Where ARE all these drinks? Maybe some of them are in the restaurants?? And why does the USA only contribute Daquiris????!!!! What's up with THAT?? Does no one remember Kentucky outside of the Turf Club? Yeesh!:rolleyes1

luna99

07-15-2008, 09:48 AM

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0242.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0257.jpg

these two photos are absolutely magical! I love your trip report and it's totally making me want to do a girls trip to the world myself... maybe one day I can get my sister to come with me and we can drink around the world!

podsnel

07-15-2008, 11:21 AM

these two photos are absolutely magical! I love your trip report and it's totally making me want to do a girls trip to the world myself... maybe one day I can get my sister to come with me and we can drink around the world!

Go for it!!! It was a BLAST!!!! Just remember to EAT around the world when you DRINK around the world, or else you'll become OBLITERATED around the world!!!:scared: :rotfl:

And thanks for the compliment on my pics- if you knew Lonnie, you'd know that her sitting on the ground in the middle of Epcot twinkly lights REALLY is not that unexpected!:hippie:

TigerKat

07-15-2008, 02:59 PM

Camster0307

07-16-2008, 08:32 AM

Ok, now THIS gorgeous thing- this is REALLY special.:love: :love: :love: I think we should all print it out, laminate it, and carry it with us on ALL Epcot trips in our futures. Then take the pledge-

"I, state your name, do solemnly swear, to drink each of these drinks, to the best of my ability, over the course of many fun and frolicsome visits to World Showcase, as long as I have breath left in me and plenty of change in my pocket. In honor of the mouse!"

Or actually, maybe if we drink all the drinks, we'll need to be taking ANOTHER kind of pledge....;)

Where ARE all these drinks? Maybe some of them are in the restaurants?? And why does the USA only contribute Daquiris????!!!! What's up with THAT?? Does no one remember Kentucky outside of the Turf Club? Yeesh!:rolleyes1

Great minds think alike! I was already seriously considering laminating this thing; but then I figured I'd want to be able to check drinks off so now I may just print on a heavier card stock. And.........love the pledge! I'll be sure to have it committed to memory by November!;)

Yeah, I don't know what's up with the drink selection for USA. Where can you get a daquiri over there anyway? They should have a kiosk with the drinks from across the USA - Cape Codders; Malibu Bay Breeze; Long Island Iced Teas; Mint Juleps, ........etc. Man, the list could be endless!

Anyway, since you enjoyed the drink scorecard, here's the beer one.......

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg91/disney_michelle/beer.jpg

Yes, I'm just full of these "educational" tools to help guide you through Epcot more enjobably!:laughing:

podsnel

07-20-2008, 09:19 AM

Great minds think alike! I was already seriously considering laminating this thing; but then I figured I'd want to be able to check drinks off so now I may just print on a heavier card stock. And.........love the pledge! I'll be sure to have it committed to memory by November!;)

Yeah, I don't know what's up with the drink selection for USA. Where can you get a daquiri over there anyway? They should have a kiosk with the drinks from across the USA - Cape Codders; Malibu Bay Breeze; Long Island Iced Teas; Mint Juleps, ........etc. Man, the list could be endless!

Anyway, since you enjoyed the drink scorecard, here's the beer one.......

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg91/disney_michelle/beer.jpg

Yes, I'm just full of these "educational" tools to help guide you through Epcot more enjobably!:laughing:

:worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: You are just too good to me!:goodvibes Clearly we have our work cut out for us in WS!!:woohoo:

OK, I'm going to try to finish today, I'm leaving for HHIR in a week!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

podsnel

07-20-2008, 10:11 AM

We had been admiring to boats from our seats in Fulton's, so we thought why not go for a ferry ride? We were hoping to get on the boat to POR, so we could see some places we had not seen. Unfortunately, we were not too bright, and got on the boat to...SSR! So we saw... more of the same thing we'd seen!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0301.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0306.jpg

In our defense, it was extraordinarily hot, making us doubly stupid. Anyway... We wanted to do a little shopping for our kids, who had so graciously let us visit Mickey without them. On our way to the shops we saw

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0299.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0292.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0295.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0309.jpg

I went into Goofy's Candy Co. to make up some treats for my boys. Since I was being especially blonde today, I made marshmallows, rice krispie heads, AND pretzels for DS11 & DS9. (DS14 doesn't like that stuff:scared1: so I got him a few bags of Goofy sugar free gummies instead). It probably would have helped if I had given the logistics of lugging all this candy on the plane more consideration, but, as I said, my brainpower was at an all time low, and I just thought "pretty candy...oooooooooooo...". So I waited while the treats were made...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0312.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0311.jpg
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0324.jpg
Actually, there was a second bag of pretzels, don't know where they went..:rolleyes1
Lonnie headed over to the World of Disney to find a princess gown for her littlest DD. After my treats were dried and carefully packed into boxes and bags, I hauled them over to WOD to find my friend.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0298.jpg

That is one GIANT Disney store!!! It took me 10 minutes to find Loni, who is usually pretty easy to find (she's nearly 6 ft tall). I don't have a pic of her shopping, but I DO have a photo of her DD thrilled to pieces in her new threads from later that night when Loni got home-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/june4princessb.jpg

Awwwww. So cute! I also made another purchase- one of those mickey heads to put on the back of my minivan, love it! When we walked out of the store, we walked right into a tatoo kiosk. So we each got one- Tink for Loni, and baseball Mickey for me.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0313.jpg

WHY did we wait until an hour before the trip was over to get our tatoos? Wouldn't it have been smarter to get them the first day? Yes, but, what can I say? We're blonde!

We headed back to SSR, because it was getting close to THAT time...you know, when you get your stuff from Bell Services and hop on the ME..:sad: :sad: But we still had a little time to kill, so we went over to look at the AKV models. While on the tour, I relentlessly harassed the CM about the Contemporary- you know, "What's behind THOSE doors" and "when are they going to start selling or at least announce something?". To everything, he replied, "I don't know what you're talking about". But then when we came out into the hallway, he said, "You wouldn't want to see anything behind those doors to the right". Then out of the blue, "July is the best time of year to visit WDW". ;) Wink, wink, nudge, nudge, say no more. :rotfl: Of course, now July is almost over, and there is still no word, but from what I've read, they held it up until August. Geez! Just announce the thing already, would ya?

Ok- I'll be back in a few for my final post.:sad1:

TigerKat

07-20-2008, 12:23 PM

How adorable Lonnie's DD looks!

I HATE getting on that ME bus going to the airport....:sad1: in fact I pretty much hate the last day of vacation.

podsnel

07-20-2008, 05:05 PM

How adorable Lonnie's DD looks!

I HATE getting on that ME bus going to the airport....:sad1: in fact I pretty much hate the last day of vacation.

I don't hate the last day of vacation, because i am in SERIOUS denial all day...When that bus shows up, I expect them to get off and say, Sorry, all planes to NJ are cancelled for a week and you're going to have to suck it up and stay in Disney until further notice. They always screw it up and let me on the bus!!! What are they THINKING?!!!!!:rotfl:

And she DOES look so sweet (Loni's DD), doesn't she? Lonnie said she is a very girlie girl, and that outfit was a HUGE hit! She's already got plans to take DD to the BBB on her next visit- I'd love to have a little girl to do that with!!! Too cute!

podsnel

07-20-2008, 06:13 PM

We slowly made our way back to wait for my ME. As we passed the CH, I realized I had never gone in! So with literally 5 minutes left in SSR paradise, I ran in and took these for all the curious overplanners here on the Disboards-

The ceramics you can make:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0317.jpg

Either magnets or more ceramics you can make:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0318.jpg

The cool stuff you can do:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0319.jpg

Feeling satisfied I had seen what I needed to see, Lonnie and I said good-bye and she headed out for her 2 hour drive home. I sat down on the bench and contemplated the roof-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/th_2008_060506summer0320.jpg (http://s246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/?action=view&current=2008_060506summer0320.flv)
Sorry- I had meant to just take a picture. Then that awful ME bus pulled up, and they messed it up AGAIN and told me my ride to the airport was here- YEESH, who's training these people? The correct line is, "Congratulations!! You've just won an unlimited extended stay at WDW, all expenses paid! Sorry, but YOU are not allowed on the ME bus to the airport!!!":rotfl: Well, the one thing I will say is that as far as rides to the airport go, it WAS a good one, the bus driver was REALLY funny!:rotfl2: :rotfl2: So my carry-on, my GIANT bulky bag of candy, and I all made it to MCO safely. Of course I had TONS of time before my flight, so I went for dinner at Macaroni Grill. Then I headed to the gate, where I sat for FOUR FREAKING HOURS because my plane was delayed. I have never, EVER left on time from this airport. There are always thunderstorms delaying the plane or some other bad weather in NJ, no matter what time of year it is. Well, at least the kids weren't there to suffer with me. Have you noticed they are doing alot of work on the airport? At our gate, the drop ceiling was off, exposing the real ceiling. Have you ever wondered what was behind a drop ceiling in an airport? Oh, the joy of knowing what lies above-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/Disney%20June%2008/2008_060506summer0321.jpg

:scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1:

I was a little happier than usual when I heard the boarding call!:worship:

Well, that's all I've got- thanks for reading along, I had the BEST time reliving this trip with you!! I'll start my HHI trip in a couple of weeks- hope to see you there!

Bye for now-
Ellen

TigerKat

07-20-2008, 06:18 PM

:scared: that was a scary sight! Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful getaway with us. I'd have never "met" you if you hadn't. I can't wait to hear more about your upcoming adventures but more importantly I can't wait to meet you in November!!!!!!!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Camster0307

07-20-2008, 06:25 PM

Oh Ellen - say it ain't so! It's over already?

Thanks for the pictures of the pretty ceilings!:laughing:

Departure day is the ABSOULUTE WORST! And I get so mad when I get to the airport and find out my flight is delayed - that's precious extra time that could have been spent at Disney!:headache:

I have a quick story of how I've set the bar higher for my girls. In 2005, we got to MCO to find out that the radar tower in RI had been struck by lightning and our flight was delayed for at least three hours; the previous flight had already been cancelled. I had horrible visions of the three of us being stranded in the airport for hours, so I kind of panicked - gave up our seats; called Disney and booked two extra nights, and went back. My girls' eyes nearly popped out of their heads when I told them we were going back for two more days. Of course. now, they expect it to happen every time!:laughing:

So glad I got to know you through this TR and looking forward to meeting you in Nov. I promise to get my last installment up by tomorrow; make sure to stay in touch!:thumbsup2