Where's My Free Cake? No Lines in August and Magical Dreams Come True *All Done!* [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

ArmyWife3-4

08-15-2008, 06:44 PM

We're Back!!!! What an AMAZING trip! It was so incredible to be there all together, and it was so much fun to be there for S1 and S2's first trip!

If you want to get caught up on our plans, you can see my PTR here: http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1879401

First, I want to begin at the ending....If you haven't seen my post on the YOAMD forum, DH (who's 'over there') and I were blessed with one of the best dreams I could imagine from the DT in our last few hours at Epcot. If you head over here (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1920864), you can read all about it. AMAZING!!! This is why WDW is truly a magical place to be...

Now for a re-cap of...
The Cast of Characters
DMom and DDad
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0634.jpg
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0708.jpg

DCousins
Peg, Tony, S1 and S2 - My cousin, her husband, and their two darling children who were rockstars on this trip!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0636.jpg
Tony and S2 (she's a clone of me as a child!)

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Peg, S1, and S2 after a very wet ride on Kali

DH
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0639.jpg
He went everywhere with us and even got his own 3-D glasses! S2 thought it was the funniest thing ever, and she was constantly taking him out of my purse to play with.

ME!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0725.jpg

The Basics
Where we stayed: POFQ! Our favorite

When we were there: DCousins arrived in the afternoon on August 7. Mom, Dad, and I arrived late in the evening on August 9. We al left on August 14 in the afternoon.

luvfigment

08-15-2008, 07:38 PM

I am looking forward to reading all about your trip. That was amazing surprise you received from the DT at EPCOT!

reyasmommy

08-15-2008, 08:24 PM

Looking forward to reading more popcorn::

Blueeyes101817

08-15-2008, 08:33 PM

What a great surprise--cant wait to hear more!

bellasmommy0

08-15-2008, 08:52 PM

Cant wait to hear more and see where DH pops up!!!:lmao:

ArmyWife3-4

08-15-2008, 09:41 PM

As you can read on my PTR, there was a lot of anxiety with this trip since DH was deployed ONE YEAR! :scared1: earlier than he was scheduled to be. We were so excited to spend our first anniversary in the World after such an amazing honeymoon there, but as it goes, the Army had other plans, and they weren't too concerned with the magic and awe of a Disney trip...

Thankfully, my family is amazing and they all rallied around me to join in on the trip. My parents were so excited about being at WDW with me as an adult, and we were all excited to be part of S1 and S2's first trip....

Since I wasn't there for the first few days of Peg, Tony, and the kids' trip, I'll start with Day One of my trip...

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL
My flight left good ol' Fayetteville, NC around 4:30 at night putting me in Orlando around 8:45 pm. My parents drove to Detroit and had a direct flight to Orlando from there....Well...my mom and I weren't thinking ahead about the Olympics when we booked our trip for 8/8/08. My Dad LOVES:lovestruc the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics. Well their flight was scheduled to fly right smack in the middle of them. My mom, being the quick thinker that she is, was able to get them stand-by on an earlier flight. Thankfully, they made it into MCO right as the Opening was beginning. This also put us into the hotel an hour or two earlier since I didn't have to wait around for them.

I took a few photos of my journey from FAY to ATL to MCO to share with DH just in case he missed the hassle of working your way through the airport systems:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0047.jpg
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0049.jpg

I had a rockin' plane from ATL to MCO, and each person had a television of their own. You could watch NBC, MSNBC, CNN, and several other stations, play trivia games, or listen to music. This was PERFECT since the Opening Ceremonies were on during this flight. I was able to watch it almost the entire flight free of charge! I will definitely fly Delta as much as possible!

When I arrived at MCO, I was super stoked to see my parents again. My mom had just been down to visit three weeks earlier, but I hadn't seen my dad since May. It was so great to see their faces coming down the terminal.

After our lovely reunion, we headed downstairs through the maze of MCO to the ME check in. I really believe they need more signage in the airport for people.
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We walked right up to the desk and right onto a bus to head to the hotel. Before hopping on the bus, Mom and i stopped for a photo:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0057.jpg
We're so excited!!! Unfortunately, the very unhappy Mears employee wasn't too happy with us taking a photo and having to wait to speak with us. Oh well, WE'RE AT DISNEY WORLD now!!! :rotfl:

We made one stop at OKW (I think) before heading to POFQ. It took probably 45 minutes to get to the resort, but the little video definitely helps pass the time! We arrived and had no wait to check in. Unfortunately, we weren't able to be in Bldg 4 as we had hoped. They upgraded us to a water view, but we would much rather be close to the bus, pool, and food court than looking at the water. We were told we could move to Bldg 5, which was much better than 6 where we were placed, the following morning.

Once we arrived in our room, we headed to bed so we could be ready for an early day at MK!!! :cool1:

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 08:31 AM

Our Room at POFQ

I forgot to add photos of our room at POFQ. We love to stay at this resort. I think this was my 6th stay there and my parents 5th. I took photos of our room in Bldg 6.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0060.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0061.jpg
There was a curtain across the sink area which is really nice when you're traveling with your parents or others. It made mornings much easier on us!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0062.jpg
Andrew wanted to check out the bed...He was excited to be back at POFQ!

I also took a photo of the mural in the lobby.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0059.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 08:43 AM

Day 2
Magic Kingdom and a wonderful dinner at Boma!

We woke up a bit groggy on Saturday morning, but we were super excited to get to the Magic Kingdom. There is nothing that compares to seeing that train coming down the tracks with Mickey and friends and then walking down Main Street towards the castle. This has to be one of my favorite feelings on Earth. You just can't beat it!

We woke up around 6:30 and DCousins dropped of the groceries they picked up on the way in a few days earlier. We enjoy having a quick breakfast in the room of cereal and/or oatmeal. It's quicker, easier, and much cheaper. We also got fruit and cheese and crackers for afternoon snacks. We ended up spending about $60 over all , but in the end, it was worth it. This morning we decided to have breakfast in the food court together since we were already up and about.

S1 and S2 wanted to share their breakfast with Andrew.
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Once we were done with our breakfast we headed out to the bus stop! THe kids were so excited to get to MK! It was so fun to be there with them.
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DH at the bus stop!

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S2 waiting for the bus.

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S1 being a goofball.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0067.jpg
Here we go!!!

Reedfamilyrulz

08-16-2008, 08:58 AM

Looking forward on hearing about your trip. Thank you for you and your husband's sacrifice. I read about your dream and was really touched.

VroomVroomLightning

08-16-2008, 09:25 AM

I read your story on a YOAMD and cried that was such a touching moment and you are right that is what makes Disney World so magical :wizard: I had to come over to the TR and it seems you are having fun so far! I can't wait to hear more!

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 09:45 AM

Day 2
Magic Kingdom and a wonderful dinner at Boma!

Arriving at MK
Of course, the motto at Disney, as it is in the Army is 'Hurry Up and Wait!' It's the story of my life! :rotfl:

We arrrived at MK and were towards the front of the line waiting to get in. We were all so excited to head into the park and start the excitement of the day! I took a photo of the YOAMD poster because I think it is just such a great program!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0069.jpg

After the little opening ceremony with the train, we threw our pixie dust and began heading towards Tomorrowland for our first ride of the morning. Space Mountain! As we were walking out onto Main Street, there was a vintage car just waiting for someone to get on. Everyone kept walking past as the driver asked them to hop on, so I thought, why not?! It was so cool to ride up Main Street to the CAstle!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0072.jpg
As you can tell by S2's face, they were very excited about the ride!!! She thought she was pretty rockstar!

Once we got to the circle in front of the castle I had to snap a few photos of my favorite thing at MK!
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Once we made it up Main Street, we headed to Tomorrowland to ride Space!! My Dad has major motion sickness issues, but he hopped on for a ride too. We walked right onto the ride, and of course, in true S2 fashion, she had to go potty. This became a running theme of our trip as her little muffin belly just got so nervous and excited! We all had a great ride and were thankful to be able to hop right on.
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After SM, we headed over to Buzz. The kids loved it!
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S1 had a great time, but he wasn't too happy that I beat him! ;)

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0086.jpg

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After Buzz, we made a potty stop and took some great photo. DH wanted to check out TL too!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0088.jpg
Love him!!! :love:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0091.jpg

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ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 10:11 AM

After Tomorowland, we continued around MK over to Fantasyland. We began with a stop at Peter Pan, one of my favorite Fantasyland rides! Tinkerbell is my favorite character, and S2 found her everywhere! We rode together, and she was very excited to see Tink throughout Peter Pan's Flight

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0095.jpg

The much DIS-disputed Ariel look alike in Peter Pan's Flight.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0103.jpg

Tiger Lily and Company
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0104.jpg

After Peter Pan we headed over to Mickey's PhilharMagic. I think this ride so perfectly captures the essence of Disney. I just love it! It is so well put together!

DH got his own glasses for this one
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0107.jpg

Next up: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
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I love the Heffalumps and Woozles
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Next: Snow White's Scary Adventure
My parents are too cute for words!
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In true Disney form, the Prince saves the day....
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0118.jpg

A few photos of the back of the castle:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0119.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0121.jpg

After Snow White, S1 and S2 tried to pull the sword from the stone. S1 was quite upset that he couldn't get it to budge!
Pullllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0124.jpg

After the sword detour, we headed over to the classic Disney ride, IASW. My Dad and IASW don't get along so well. Last time he was at WDW and we were riding IASW, it started downpouring! People had crowded into the ride exit area and we got stuck on the ride. We had to ride it 6 times!!! Yikes!!! Thankfully, the skies were clear today, and there was no wait time at all!
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0128.jpg

DH wanted to ride too!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0131.jpg

Fleur de Lis for our baby, Violet. Since basset hounds are French, we joke that she loves them! :laughing:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0132.jpg

As we were walking up the back ramp, we got the surprise of a lifetime! We were granted Dream FP's for MK!!! WAHOO!!!!:cool1: :yay: :cool1: :yay: They are right when they say, it happens when you least expect it!!
DH didn't get one, but we took a photo with him anyways!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0143.jpg

What a wonderful way to start our trip. My mom put it so well when she said the Dream at the beginning of our trip was for all of us, and the Dream at the end was special for DH and me.

For us, this was the best FP we could have gotten. We're not much for thrill rides so the other parks wouldn't have been such a major advantage. At MK, there are so many rides for the entire family, and there are lots of rides on the FP.

Receving these also helped to open up some time later in the week in our touring plans since we were able to get ahead. We were able to ride the Adventureland and Frontierland.

Wingedheart

08-16-2008, 10:40 AM

Finally made it to your trip report! Loving every minute! Awesome shots of the castle!!

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 03:09 PM

I am looking forward to reading all about your trip. That was amazing surprise you received from the DT at EPCOT!
:welcome: That was by far the best part of the trip! I was so shocked, and what a blessing! DH will love it!

Looking forward to reading more popcorn::
:welcome: Glad you're here!

What a great surprise--cant wait to hear more!
:welcome: It was a wonderful surprise! I'll be sure to tell you all what DH thinks when he gets the package!

Cant wait to hear more and see where DH pops up!!!:lmao:
Welcome back! Your trip is coming up isn't it? You haven't gone yet, have you???

Looking forward on hearing about your trip. Thank you for you and your husband's sacrifice. I read about your dream and was really touched.
:hug: Thank you! It means so much that you are all so appreciative. It's brought tears to my eyes reading everyone's comments on the YOAMD post!

I read your story on a YOAMD and cried that was such a touching moment and you are right that is what makes Disney World so magical :wizard: I had to come over to the TR and it seems you are having fun so far! I can't wait to hear more!
:welcome: You're right, it definitely is what makes it so special. It was the epitome of everything Disney represents!

Finally made it to your trip report! Loving every minute! Awesome shots of the castle!!
:welcome: I love, love, love the castle! I might be slightly obsessed with it, actually! ;)

bellasmommy0

08-16-2008, 04:02 PM

[
Welcome back! Your trip is coming up isn't it? You haven't gone yet, have you???

We dont go until December, we still have quite a wait!!! Still triple digits. almost to the double digits!!!

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 09:44 PM

After getting the Dream FP's it kind of threw our day for a loop since it threw off our touring plans. We decided to ride the things not on the FP's earlier in the day and use the FP's when we returned after dinner.

After a family Pow-Wow of what to do next, we decided to head to my favorite ride Haunted Mansion!:thumbsup2
I was still stoked about the FP's:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0153-1.jpg

As were Mom and Dad
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0152-1.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0155-1.jpg

We took a leisurely ride on the Riverboat:
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0160-1.jpg

Next, we took the trek over to Adventureland to catch POTC before heading back to the hotel for an afternoon break. We headed out around noon, after lunch at Pecos Bill's, for a nap and swim before dinner at Boma.

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 10:09 PM

Day 2 Cont - Mid Day Break and Dinner at Boma

Before heading to our new room in Building 5, we had to stop for the best thing at POFQ, BEIGNETS!!! YUM!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0181-1.jpg

DH wanted some too! Along with a much needed Coke after a busy, hot morning
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0183-1.jpg

After the kiddos took a nap and we caught a quick dip in the pool, it was off to a great dinner at Boma. We had 4:45 reservations which was a perfect time to make it back to MK to finish out the evening.

We arrived at AKL about 20 minutes before our reservations so we had a little time to check out the lobby. My dad is a huge fan of architecture and design being a landscape designer, so he really enjoyed checking it out.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0186.jpg

I loved this piece of art in the lobby, and it had such an interesting story to go along with it.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0184.jpg

When we were seated, it wasn't too terribly busy. We were seated quickly and got right down to the food. I was really excited to try Boma because I love to try new things.

Plate 1:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0187.jpg
White Bean Hummus
Olive Hummus
Sun-dried tomato hummus
Tomato, Watermelon, and Blue cheese salad
Mixed Green Salad with Mango Vinagrette
Lentil and Tomato Salad
Melon Rind Salad

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0188.jpg
DH liked it too! :)

Plate 2:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0190.jpg

Chicken Coconut Curry Soup - LOVED this!
Seafood Something...??? - Excellent! Mussles! Yum!

Plate 3:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0191.jpg
Curried Rice with Raisins
Nut Crusted Salmon
BBQ Rib
Roasted Veggies
Cornbread (not sure of the actual name...)
Sweet potatoes...I think...but they were very good
Coconut Ride

Plate 4:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0196.jpg
Banana Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce - To Die For!
Cherry Cobbler
Zebra Dome
Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake (DH would have LOVED this!)
Coconut Tarimisu
Not sure what else....

Our waitress was from my hometown in Michigan, and we even went to the same college. What a small world! She brought me a special anniversary dessert that S1 and S2 devoured!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0193.jpg

Personally, I LOVED Boma! :lovestruc DH and I will be making a trip there in April when we return. I would go for the salads, soups, and desserts alone! YUM!!!

It's also a nice place to go if you have people with less adventerous tastes. There were plenty of things for the kiddos including spaghetti, chicken fingers, and lots of fresh fruit. For adults who are less adventerous, there were lots of options too such as roasted chicken and mixed greens with more mild dressing options. For our party, I think everyone was really happy with it!

TatenEly

08-16-2008, 10:17 PM

Hello,

I just stumbled across your TR and I am hooked! I really love that Disney was helping to create special moments for you even though your DH could not be there.....just awesome.:love:

I also have to compliment you and your mom on your VB hipsters....I have been thinking about the Raspberry Fizz and you may have sold me on it for my Sept trip....I heard those bags were EVERYWHERE...and now I know why, they are just too cute!:cutie:

Looking forward to more!
Stephanie

ArmyWife3-4

08-16-2008, 10:53 PM

Hello,
I also have to compliment you and your mom on your VB hipsters....I have been thinking about the Raspberry Fizz and you may have sold me on it for my Sept trip....I heard those bags were EVERYWHERE...and now I know why, they are just too cute!:cutie:

Looking forward to more!
Stephanie

My Mom and I both thought they were perfect for the trip! I was able to fit a water bottle, DH's photo, camera, cell phone, wallet, poncho, pens, stamps, you name it! It was perfect!

It was also nice because on rides and going through security, you don't have to take it off you can just slide it around. Not only was that convenient, but it was nice to not have to worry about setting it down and losing it!

VB is running some great specials on their retiring patterns/styles right now too!

dvc at last !

08-16-2008, 11:20 PM

I am enjoying your TR !

Happy Anniversary to the both of you !

:cool1:

Aaron'smom

08-16-2008, 11:44 PM

Sounds like you are having a great time. I am sorry your DH could not be there.

scottny

08-17-2008, 12:18 AM

Just came upon your report and must say it is really good. Love the pics.

I read about your surprise and that is so nice of them to do that for you.

looking forward to more.

reelmom

08-17-2008, 07:20 AM

Great report! Looking forward to reading more.

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 07:57 AM

Great report! Looking forward to reading more.
:welcome:

Just came upon your report and must say it is really good. Love the pics.

I read about your surprise and that is so nice of them to do that for you.

looking forward to more.
:welcome: Yes, that was definitely a nice surprise! I am still in shock! :)

Sounds like you are having a great time. I am sorry your DH could not be there.
:welcome: Thankfully, my wonderful family was able to be ther so it was the next best thing to DH! And he was there, didn't you see him in the photos??? :rotfl:

I am enjoying your TR !

Happy Anniversary to the both of you !

:cool1:
Thank you! :) :welcome:

Wingedheart

08-17-2008, 08:34 PM

MEK

08-17-2008, 08:43 PM

Welcomw back. Your castle pics are great! Really great! Plus the park looks so empty! Congrats on your dream fast pass - gotta get me one of those!

tofubeast

08-17-2008, 08:52 PM

Loving the pics. I think it is so great you have a pic of you hubbie with you! Can't wait for more!

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 09:23 PM

OMG - okay, I too love your bags, but I have my trusty Jack Skellington backpack for our upcoming trip. :thumbsup2

Where are you from in Michigan? I'm a Michigander myself - from outside Flint. :goodvibes

I LOVED your food pictures from Boma - we want to stay at AKL for my 40th birthday in 2010 and I really want to eat there, so very exciting! Makes me hungry! Did you eat that whole plate of delicious desserts? :scared1: (I would have - you're on vacation and you're celebrating!!)

Anyway, enjoying every installment!:woohoo:

I am originally from Grand Rapids, and I miss it soooo much! The South is just an entirely different world. I miss the Midwest! Thankfully, living on an Army post, there are people from all over the world so it keeps things interesting and there's always someone around who's like you are!

I ate SO much at Boma!!! We all did! The food was wonderful, and the desserts were totally to die for!!! I was really nervous going into it because Tony and the kids (and someyimes my Mom too) can be picky eaters, but it was great for everyone!

Welcomw back. Your castle pics are great! Really great! Plus the park looks so empty! Congrats on your dream fast pass - gotta get me one of those!

Thanks and welcome! I love to take photos of the castle. Many of them were taken early in the morning before everyone even made it up there. The vintage car ride gave us an advantage getting up there while it was still empty!

Loving the pics. I think it is so great you have a pic of you hubbie with you! Can't wait for more!

Lol! :laughing: We had SO much fun getting him out. S2 thought it was the funniest thing ever and was constantly taking him out. Fireworks, parades, meals, rides with 3-D glasses...all over!

ProudMommyof2

08-17-2008, 09:30 PM

Really enjoying your TR! Can't wait to hear more. Bless you and your DH for your sacrifice!

vdarrell

08-17-2008, 09:38 PM

Glad to hear you and your family(hubby included) are having a great trip.

It was nice to know you got a much deserved "wish" FP's that is awesome.
Boma looked delicious, I would love to check it out when we go in Dec. but my hubby is your basic eater...hamburger,pizza meat and pototo's.

Waiting to read more.

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 10:26 PM

After dinner at Boma, I stopped at the lobby shop to pick up a Safari postcard to send DH. He'll love it! It showed the entire route on a map. Then we headed outside to check out the animals outside of AKL. S1 and S2 thought it was quite cool that you could see them from your hotel room.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0201.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0209.jpg

After walking off some of our dinner, we headed to the bus stop at AKL to trek over to MK to use our Dream FPs and see Wishes and Spectro (two of my all time favorite Disney things!).

S2 had to get Andrew out for a little fresh air after such a big dinner while we waited for our bus.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0214.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0215.jpg
She's such a goofball! DH is going to love these photos! :thumbsup2

Once we got to MK, it was time to hit up some rides!!! :cool1:

I had to snap a few shots coming down Main Street because I just love it so much. I'm no expert photographer, but it's such a great place to take photos!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0216.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0218.jpg
In case I didn't have enough photos of the Castle, here's another for good measure!

We headed to Frontierland to catch the ever popular and incredibly cheesy Jungle Cruise.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0224.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0225.jpg

Since it was getting dark, I didn't get many more photos but we also rode BTMRR, Splash, and a few others. While the Peg, S1, S2 and my mom rode Spalsh (I was just not up for it after that huge dinner! :eek: :sick: ), Dad, Tony and I staked out our spot for Spectro in Frontierland near the Riverboat. I had read that it was much less crowded, and we had a great spot for the parade with out hundreds of people pushing and shoving.

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 10:27 PM

I was so pumped because the Main Street Electrical Parade fascinated me as a child, and I just Spectro! It was so fun to watch S2's face. She was just in awe! :Pinkbounc

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0259.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0229.jpg

Of course, DH had to share in the magic too!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0227.jpg
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0226.jpg

Here are some photos of Spectro. My camera wasn't too happy with the dark night and lighted floats:

I thought this one was rather cool:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0234.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0237.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0239.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0251.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0255.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0262.jpg

And a few videos:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/th_MVI_0254.jpg (http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/?action=view&current=MVI_0254.flv)

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/th_MVI_0231.jpg (http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/?action=view&current=MVI_0231.flv)
(I can't get this one to flip, but at least you can hear the music! :cool1: )

lake721

08-17-2008, 10:45 PM

Having a blast reading your trip report! Sounds like you had a fabulous time.....I am sure you will have an even better time when DH is with you! Thank you for you and your DH's sacrafice!:thumbsup2

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 10:48 PM

After Spectro we headed closer to the castle to catch Wishes. I knew Main Street would be crazy so we headed over to the 'under construction' bridge next to the castle. I didn't realize we would miss so much of the show. I figured being that close we would be able to see everything, but I was a bit wrong. The kiddos were just happy to see the fireworks though whether they were complete or not.

More castle shots from another perspective for good measure... ;)
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0265.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0269.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0270.jpg

Wishes
This was my favorite photo for this night's Wishes viewing:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0284.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0280.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0288.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0293.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0299.jpg

Another sideways video, but you can hear the music and see the 'star' shoot over the castle! :)
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/th_MVI_0294.jpg (http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/?action=view&current=MVI_0294.flv)

Rather than fighting the crowds to get to the buses to wait in line, we decided we'd rather wait in line for a ride so we headed to Tomorrowland to catch Peter Pan and another ride, but I can't recall what it was now. This was definitely a good call because we only waited a few minutes for a bus by the time we got out of the park.

Dad and Tony were each holding one of the kiddos hands walking out, and I thought it was just too cute. The photo didn't turn out too well but, I'm posting it anyways! :)
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0306.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

08-17-2008, 10:52 PM

Really enjoying your TR! Can't wait to hear more. Bless you and your DH for your sacrifice!
Thank you! I truly believe it's the prayers from friends, family and others alike that keep DH and his troops safe over there each and every day!

Glad to hear you and your family(hubby included) are having a great trip.

It was nice to know you got a much deserved "wish" FP's that is awesome.
Boma looked delicious, I would love to check it out when we go in Dec. but my hubby is your basic eater...hamburger,pizza meat and pototo's.

Waiting to read more.
I was nervous because DCousins can be picky eaters too but there was everything from very exotic to much more tame options. The ribs, chicken, salmon, and prime rib were all excellent and not 'exotic' so to speak. I think your DH would be pleasantly surprised. I know my cousin Tony was! :)

scottny

08-17-2008, 11:08 PM

great update and pics.

I love Wishes. one of my favorite things there.

Wingedheart

08-18-2008, 10:29 AM

I lived in Virginia for awhile - it's definitely different for us Northerners who try to move south, so I know what you mean!

I'm glad you mention that Boma is great for everyone and has good kid choices - my kids are pretty picky, so we had stayed away, but now I know we can go and everyone will get plenty to eat!

Thanks for posting those Spectro pics - the parade is not going to be running when we're there because of bridge construction, so at least I got to see some pics of it!

10 days :yay:

Did you send the Dream Care Package to your DH yet? How long will it take to get to him? Hopefully someone will take a picture of his face when he opens it! Did you tell him about it or will it be a surprise?

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 10:49 AM

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 10:51 AM

I contacted the manager I met in Epcot about getting a copy of the photo, and she sent it this morning. Aside from the poncho :rotfl: , it's a great photo! :) Such wonderful people! What a blessing to have met them! I am still riding high off the excitement of our trip! :cloud9:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/EpcotDreamSquad.jpg

luvfigment

08-18-2008, 11:46 AM

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 12:39 PM

What a great update! Congrats on the dream FP...that so neat and a great park to get them in. I also love Boma and is always on my must do list.

The picture of you with the DT is great...congrats on it all again.

Looking forward to seeing how the rest of the trip went.

I see from your siggie that you stayed at SOG a few years ago. Did you like it? I am anxious but excited about staying there...

Wingedheart

08-18-2008, 12:50 PM

Aww, what a great picture! Such wonderful big smiles on everyone :wizard: You still look great in your poncho! You just look like someone who is at Disney World during the rainy summer season! ;)

luvfigment

08-18-2008, 02:08 PM

I see from your siggie that you stayed at SOG a few years ago. Did you like it? I am anxious but excited about staying there...

I did enjoy it...the rooms are really big. One of my friends has also stayed there for her DH RnR and they liked it also. The only reason why I haven't stayed there again was b/c DH and I like to do the dining plan and you can't do it while staying at SOG. You can't beat the price for the size of the room. The only other downfall was the transportation but that may have changed in the past 4 yrs...they have their own bus system not the Disney one but it is an easy walk to Poly and you can jump on the monorail to get to MK and that is what we did.

Is that where you are going to stay in April?

jjk

08-18-2008, 02:25 PM

just found your amazing trip report, brilliant photos , cant wait to read more:goodvibes

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 02:50 PM

I did enjoy it...the rooms are really big. One of my friends has also stayed there for her DH RnR and they liked it also. The only reason why I haven't stayed there again was b/c DH and I like to do the dining plan and you can't do it while staying at SOG. You can't beat the price for the size of the room. The only other downfall was the transportation but that may have changed in the past 4 yrs...they have their own bus system not the Disney one but it is an easy walk to Poly and you can jump on the monorail to get to MK and that is what we did.

Is that where you are going to stay in April?

We're going to give it a try! POFQ was booked up, and we figured why not? You can't beat that price. I figure we'll just do the walk to Poly to get the monorail if we can. DH loves the monorail! :)

just found your amazing trip report, brilliant photos , cant wait to read more:goodvibes

Thanks for the compliments and welcome! :upsidedow This is my first TR so we'll see how it goes! I took nearly 1,000 photos so that helps keep it interesting! I love to take photos even though I've had no formal training. I tried to take tons so DH could see everything and feel a part of it!:hug:

scottny

08-18-2008, 03:12 PM

great pic with dream team

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 09:53 PM

Day 3
Animal Kingdom and Epcot

We were up bright and early at 6:30 in order to be at AK for rope drop. I was very excited for this day because we were going to ride the Safari. This is DH's favorite ride, and I was excited to tell him all about it.

Don't Mom and Dad look excited to be getting on the bus. Thank god for coffee!!! :coffee:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0308.jpg
Dad looks like he's in stealth mode! :laughing:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0307.jpg
Mom's excited!

Once we hit AK, I was all about taking photos. I can't get enough of all the details and foliage there. It's just so beautiful. Dad was excited to see it too since it wasn't open last time he was there (Mom and I went for my senior trip with my friend, but non Dad for that trip).

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0314.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0312.jpg
I loved this light fixture at the gate.

We're here!!!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0311.jpg

If it weren't for the Kodak sign, this shot would be perfect!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0316.jpg

Mom and I are excited! :woohoo:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0309.jpg

Once we were at the Tree of Life it was time for Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto to open the park. We weren't in a good spot to see Mickey, but we were right up front for the rest!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0318.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0322.jpg

Pluto for our baby, Violet, (see my PTR for photos)
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0324.jpg

One more of the tree before heading to the Safari.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0326.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

08-18-2008, 09:59 PM

Care Package for DH
Sorry I can't write more about our trip tonight. I was up way too late last night updating, and I paid for it today!

Before I head to bed though, I wanted to post photos of DH's care package that I put in the mail today. I am so excited about it!!!:banana: :cool1:

I printed about 100 or so photos from our trip and collaged the entire inside of the box. DH is having trouble viewing our photos online over there so this way he can see a lot of them all at once. I can't wait for it to get there!!! I filled it with the great gifts from the DS and the odds and ends I picked up for him too inculding a pirate eye patch and earing! :rotfl:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0928.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0935.jpg

scottny

08-18-2008, 10:31 PM

great update and pics.

that is a great idea with the pics. the box looks great.

midatlanticpower

08-18-2008, 11:03 PM

[FONT="Book Antiqua"]Day 2
Magic Kingdom and a wonderful dinner at Boma!

Arriving at MK
Of course, the motto at Disney, as it is in the Army is 'Hurry Up and Wait!' It's the story of my life! :rotfl:

we threw our pixie dust...........................As we were walking out onto Main Street, there was a vintage car just waiting for someone to get on. Everyone kept walking past as the driver asked them to hop on, so I thought, why not?! It was so cool to ride up Main Street to the CAstle!

Wow I am enjoying reading about your trip!!! I hope its OK to ask...but you threw pixie dust...really or is that just a saying??? Also does it cost anything to ride in the cars??

Thanks in advance and I will probably have more questions after I read more about your awesome trip! Congrats on the 1 year.....sorry hubby's not here!!

jjk

08-19-2008, 04:34 AM

wow your care package for your DH looks amazing :goodvibes

ArmyWife3-4

08-19-2008, 07:09 AM

great update and pics.

that is a great idea with the pics. the box looks great.

Thank you! I can't WAIT for him to get it!!!!

Wow I am enjoying reading about your trip!!! I hope its OK to ask...but you threw pixie dust...really or is that just a saying??? Also does it cost anything to ride in the cars??

Thanks in advance and I will probably have more questions after I read more about your awesome trip! Congrats on the 1 year.....sorry hubby's not here!!
If you're close to the front of the turnstiles at park opening, the CM's hand out Mickey confetti. They then do a countdown, and when it gets to one (when the parks opens and people are allowed on Main Street) everyone who has it throws their pixie dust to open the park.

The cars don't cost anything at all! :thumbsup2 It's just another Disney attraction, and we lucked out to be able to get on them right when the park opened. It was an amazing feeling :goodvibes to be driving towards the castle without anyone in front of us!
I just did a quick search, and if you got to this site: http://www.edlfan.org/sg_dlp02.htm you can see photos at the bottom of the page of the different vehicles they have out and about at different times.

wow your care package for your DH looks amazing :goodvibes
Thank you!!! I had so much fun putting it together. I hope he likes it!!! :goodvibes It will get him excited about our April trip too!

tofubeast

08-19-2008, 10:56 AM

Your DH is going to be so thrilled to get that care package!! Great job!:thumbsup2

luvfigment

08-19-2008, 11:00 AM

Those were some great pictures of the opening of AK. The care package came out great for your DH. I like you you put all of the pictures in the box...did you tell him to be careful when he opens it? Looking forward to reading about the rest of our day!

MEK

08-19-2008, 04:47 PM

Your castle pictures keep getting better and better and I love your care package for DH.

bellasmommy0

08-19-2008, 05:02 PM

I LOVE the care package. That is so cute, the 1st thing DH will see is all the pics when he opens it!! How COOL!! Great trippie so far!!

ArmyWife3-4

08-19-2008, 09:38 PM

After rope drop, we headed straight back to the Safari.

Now, before I post this, let me tell you that my dad, DCousins and I LOVE to people watch. We do crazy things like vote for 'who is most Disney' 'craziest outfit' etc. We mean it in the most good-natured way, but some people at Disney just seem to be in another world :confused: . Take, for example, this woman (yes, I took photos of her...please don't think I'm a terrible person....):

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0369.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0332.jpg

Not only was she wearing long, black pants on a 95 degree humid day, but she also had on white pumps with white socks! :scared1: She definitely took the cake that day! On top of the er....very non-WDW outfit, she did not speak any English, proceeded to stand up on the ride over the rickety bridge, and did not make the CM too happy when she didn't understand 'sit down!'.

But I digress.....We made it onto the second Safari truck. My dad had some major back problems a few years back, so we made sure to sit near the front of the truck where it wasn't so bumpy. Unfortunately, I was on the right side of the vehicle and did not have a good view at all. Thankfully, we went back later in the week and there were tons of animals out and I had a great view!

Here are some photos from our trek:

Here we go!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0334.jpg

Hippos!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0338.jpg
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0341.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0348.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0356.jpg

Not a very good shot but you can see the male and female lions.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0360.jpg

Hanging out on the roadside..
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0365.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

08-19-2008, 09:57 PM

Alright, time ot back track. I realized I have my days mixed up. DCousins did not join us at AK in the morning on Day 3. They had a sleep in day since they were up late the night before. They had already done a morning at AK before we arrived, and they had an ADR at Garden Grill at 1:00. Sorry! I confused myself! :)

After the Safari, we took a bathroom break, and I snapped a few photos of the buildings and scenery:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0370.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0372.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0373.jpg

Nothing beats the ambience of AK. It is just so authentic!

We had a bit of time to kill before Festival of the Lion King, and there was no wait for It's a Bug's Life so we treked around the Tree of Life and made our way in. I knew Dad would think the Tree was so cool!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0374.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0379.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0376.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0378.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0375.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0377.jpg

Of course, DH got his own 3-D glasses for this one too!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0380.jpg
Doesn't he look excited?! :rotfl:

bellasmommy0

08-19-2008, 10:04 PM

You took some really good photos. That ladies outfit was hilarious....what was she thinking:confused3 !! Did you send that pic to DH in the care package..:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Cant wait for more

ArmyWife3-4

08-19-2008, 10:12 PM

After It's a Bug's Life, we were timed perfectly to snag a seat for Festival of the Lion King. I was excited for Dad to see the photos and acts in this show. We had always wanted to see Lion King Broadway show but never made it. I think he was quite impressed.

Hey Pumba! (We were in his section :))
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0393.jpg

Not the best photo, but I am completey entranced with the guys on stilts. Wow!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0396.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0397.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0398.jpg

This photo cracks me up!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0400.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0403.jpg

After Lion King, we headed straight to Finding Nemo: The Musical. The 10:30 Lion King and 11:30 Nemo are perfectly timed to catch both. DH and I caught both last summer and we were able to do it again this summer.

I do have to say, Nemo is on my life of Disney favorite things. I knew Dad would love the characters. The creativity in this show is just spectacular! I mean, who would have thought to put Mr. Ray on a bike?!!? Incredible! :thumbsup2

scottny

08-19-2008, 11:50 PM

great updates and pics.

sounds like a fun time at AK

I saw FOTLK last time for the first time and it wa sa great show.

jjk

08-20-2008, 12:24 AM

another fantastic day ay AK , FOTLK and Nemo are such great shows :goodvibes

disneyloveNY

08-20-2008, 12:50 AM

What a great TR and outstanding pictures. can't wait for more:thumbsup2 :goodvibes

bellasmommy0

08-20-2008, 10:21 AM

Do you have any pics from Nemo?? I missed it last year and am really looking forward to it this year! Keep up the good work!!

ArmyWife3-4

08-20-2008, 10:43 AM

Do you have any pics from Nemo?? I missed it last year and am really looking forward to it this year! Keep up the good work!!

Unfortunately, I don't. :guilty: We arrived late so we were seated to the far right of the stage. I don't think you can use flash photography either so it would have been very difficult to photograph.

When you do go, the closer to front and center you sit the better. There isn't necessairly a 'bad' seat, but there are definitely better ones. Some of the action isn't very visible if you're too far to the sides. Sitting in the second tier of seating is a good idea too since some of the actors come out into the audience via the center aisle. You are going to LOVE it!!!:lovestruc It's such an amazingly creative show!

ArmyWife3-4

08-20-2008, 09:51 PM

After Nemo, we were quite hungry, and I was excited to try out Yak and Yeti - CS. We treked across the park, found a table and ordered a few things to share. I was impressed with the food for a CS restaurant. I think DH and I may try the sit down in April. Mom and Dad enjoyed it as well. Splitting two main dishes and eggrolls was a perfect amount of food for us. We had:

Eggrolls
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0416.jpg

Crispy Honey Chicken
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0414.jpg

and Shrimp Lo Mein
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0415.jpg

After lunch, we decided to give Conservation Station a shot. The park was getting busy and we figured why not. As three adults, we felt this was rather a waste of time. The coolest thing about it was seeing the holding areas for the animals on the train. I suppose for young children, the petting zoo may have been cool, but I don't plan to go out there again unless they add something else.

I took a few photos waiting for the train:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0419.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0420.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0422.jpg

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From the train:
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0427.jpg

After our rathering boring trip to Conservation Station, I wanted ot walk the Maharajah Jungle Trek and Pangani Forest Trek. My mom HATES bat so I thought it fitting for her to see the giant fruit bats.

While we were walking, DH called!!! Of course, the week we were on vacation he had to be out and about in Iraq. It was a blessing in disguise because being at WDW distracted me from thinking about waiting for his call, but it was still a bummer to not hear from him much. I was so excited when we called! :banana:
Mom took my camera and took a photo of DH and me....;) :laughing:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0438.jpg

While I was talking to DH, Mom snapped some really cool photos of leaves and plants:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0437.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0439.jpg

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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0449.jpg

scottny

08-20-2008, 10:26 PM

great update and pics.

how nice to get a call from him while there. :banana:

jjk

08-21-2008, 04:10 AM

so Pleased you got a call from your DH, the food at yak and yetti looks very yummy I cant wait to try it :goodvibes

luvfigment

08-21-2008, 02:44 PM

ArmyWife3-4

08-21-2008, 04:01 PM

Looks like a great day at AK. We are trying the TS version of Yak & Yeti in Oct. for lunch...hopefully it will be yummy. I am glad you were able to talk to your DH...it was good timing on his part at least you weren't in one of the shows and it is easy to step off to the side on the trails.

DH and I are going to try the TS in April too. Let me know how it is!

I was so paranoid about him calling during a show or a ride, but thankfully, he didn't. Although, I don't think he would have minded catching a ride on Soarin' or the Safari! :laughing:

dolfinjuls

08-21-2008, 06:28 PM

Hi! I just read thru your TR! I was there from the 10-16th!

Loving everything so far! :)

ArmyWife3-4

08-21-2008, 08:33 PM

I took quite a few photos on the walking trails. I got some really funky, fun photos of the animals and the area. We even got to see the tiger going for a swim. That was definitely a treat!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0469.jpg

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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0476.jpg

While we were heading out of AK, I just had to take a photo of the Military Macaw in The Oasis. Although, I'm sure DH doesn't have any where he is....just camels and sand spiders! :scared1:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0477.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0478.jpg

We stayed a lot later in the day than we normally do. We like to leave after lunch to head to the hotel for a nap and/or swim during the busiest part of the day in the parks, but we stayed until closer to 2:30/3:00 walking the trails. AK is a very hot park anyways since most of the attraction are outdoors and it involves a lot of walking, but they day we were there was a hot day. On top of AK being a hot park, it was a very tiring day. By about 1:30 the park just got so busy, and I was getting super cranky. (Who me?! :confused3 I get cranky?! :laughing:) We headed back to the hotel to meet up with DCousins and get ready for Illuminations!

ArmyWife3-4

08-21-2008, 08:55 PM

By the middle of our second full day, I was starting to wear out. Although Disney is a fab vacation, it can be far from relaxing! It felt so good to get back to our room at POFQ and take a 30 minute snooze. Knowing how worn out I am by 2:00 on a Disney day (or a normal work day for that matter!), I really don't know how people with little kids do it all day. No wonder there are so many kids having nervous breakdowns waiting for the evening parades/shows! Around 5:00 we met up with DCousins after their nap/swim time to head to Epcot for the evening.

This is where the "Where's my free cake" story comes in. I am sure it won't be as funny to all of you as it is to me considering it has some family history, but I'll do my best to recreate it for you! :) My mom's family is very large, and very similar to My Big Fat Greek Wedding although we're Syrian instead of Greek. My dad has always joked that we're 'crazy Syrian women'. When DH asked for my hand in marriage, my dad said, 'Do you understand the Syrian woman...HIGH MAINTENANCE!':laughing:

Now my dad's side of the family is just a typical American family with a few siblings, aunts and uncles. My mom's on the other hand, well it just goes on and on and on. We have our share of crazy aunts, just like in the Greek family from the wedding. Several of my mom's aunts were always all about getting anything they could for free whether it was extra wedding cake to go from a wedding or a free dessert on their birthday. My dad has always thought this was the funniest thing ever.

While waiting for the bus Dad decided it was time to explain to S2 what it meant to be a Syrian woman. He explained that several of my aunts would go out to dinner and just tell people it was their birthday to get the free cake. He had S2 practice saying, 'It's my birthday! Where's my free cake?!'. Well this continued throughout the trip and S2 thought it was hilarious as dad my dad....Leaving my dad to laugh like this:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0736.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0737.jpg
Ridiculous!!!!

Wingedheart

08-21-2008, 09:09 PM

OMG How cute is your dad! :rotfl2:

The funny thing is, it's not just the Sryian women who want free cake! My dad used to do this at restaurants when we visited my grandparents in Florida on vacation. Dad would usually pick my poor Grandpa, a very sweet, quiet and humble man - it would be Grandpa's "birthday" most nights while we were on vacation!! :cake:

Small World, isn't it?!

reyasmommy

08-21-2008, 09:49 PM

Finally got caught up on your TR. I love all your pictures and you husband looks like he's having a great time. ;) Ohhhh and btw your dad has the cutest smile. :goodvibes

jjk

08-22-2008, 03:37 AM

great pictures of your Dad :goodvibes

cabobber

08-23-2008, 03:08 PM

So here I am lurking around the DIS boards, planning my family's Spring Break trip to WDW, and I find some of my favorite people in the world...

And you just tell your dad that it's not just Syrian women looking for free cake. I recall a time that he was the ring leader in a quest for free cheesecake at my parent's house in Traverse City!

Loving your trip reports and adore the photos. Take care and lots of love -

Heidi from GR/TC

rwieten

08-23-2008, 08:40 PM

no kidding! did you have any idea you were reading meg's trip report? small world! we can't stop laughing ... we will never forget the cheesecake incident!

cabobber

08-23-2008, 08:59 PM

no kidding! did you have any idea you were reading meg's trip report? small world! we can't stop laughing ... we will never forget the cheesecake incident!

Yep. Seems as though one Syrian woman + one quirky man = an uncanny ability to track down good food.

Somehow I spotted a link to Meg's trip report and noticed she was a military wife/NC/etc. Then when I saw photos, I just about fell off my chair. I'm loving hearing about your trip. I was visiting with Peg/Karrie/Liz in ER during Harbor Days and was excited to hear how the kids would enjoy WDW. From Meg's report, it looks like they had a great time.

ArmyWife3-4

08-23-2008, 10:19 PM

Yep. Seems as though one Syrian woman + one quirky man = an uncanny ability to track down good food.

Somehow I spotted a link to Meg's trip report and noticed she was a military wife/NC/etc. Then when I saw photos, I just about fell off my chair. I'm loving hearing about your trip. I was visiting with Peg/Karrie/Liz in ER during Harbor Days and was excited to hear how the kids would enjoy WDW. From Meg's report, it looks like they had a great time.

Oh my gosh!!! What a small world!!!! :laughing: How are you?!?! Are you planning a trip?!? Andrew and I are planning another trip for his R and R in April! :) Hope all is well in Northern MI. I miss it so much!

And please send some cheesecake my way! Hahah! ;)

ArmyWife3-4

08-23-2008, 11:18 PM

Well, I had a nice long entry typed up and then my internet decided to freeze up! :headache: :mad: :sad2:

It's a bit too late now to work on re-typing it, but I thought I'd put up a few photos to keep everyone entertained in the meantime.

Violet modeling the presents Mommy brought back. Just a tad spoiled! :lovestruc
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0904-1.jpg

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Mmm....my dark chocolate covered rice krispie treat with crushed peanut butter cups drizzled with caramel and milk chocolate. I get a toothache just thinking about it now!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0913.jpg

scottny

08-24-2008, 08:23 AM

too cute.

that rice krispy treat looks so good.

CanadianWDWfan

08-24-2008, 01:08 PM

jewjubean

08-24-2008, 05:42 PM

great TR!!!

MiaBella05

08-24-2008, 05:59 PM

subscribing :goodvibes

Monica20039

08-24-2008, 06:50 PM

I love the shirt you bought your furbaby! I must buy one when I am at WDW next week. Great TR!

ArmyWife3-4

08-24-2008, 07:26 PM

Hi,found you today and have enjoyed the TR. What a nice thing to send your hubby a care package with pics. I'm sure its just what he needs to brighten up his day and feel closer to home. (I was married to a military man, FT Benning, I can relate.) :hug: Keep a smile on your face cause he will return. My prayers are with you. Great pics of the castle. I will have to ride in one of those cars next year. Can't wait for more, and where will find DH's pic next...popcorn:: Love the tshirt for your dog.

Thanks for the well wishes! DH should get his care package tomorrow or Tuesday. I can't wait!! I'll post photos of him with it when it arrives! I told him he had to take a photo of the Mickey patriotic antenna topper on his humvee. :rotfl:

Diane D

08-24-2008, 09:17 PM

Great trip report! And I also noticed your bags. VB hipsters?? Hate to sound dumb but what does VB stand for? And where did you get them??

ArmyWife3-4

08-24-2008, 09:39 PM

Alright, here goes attempt #2 since it froze up last night! :mad:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0485.jpg

Once we got to Epcot, it was about 5:30/6:00 so we figured we'd snag a few rides in Future World before hitting up World Showcase. We were going to be at Epcot again the next morning, so we weren't in a rush to do any of the biggies. Since Living with the Land is one of my favorite rides, we headed to The Land pavilion. Thankfully, there wasn't any wait at all and we walked right on.

I love things like this that you can only see at Disney:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0504.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0507.jpg

After Living with the Land, we scooted over to Spaceship Earth to check out the rehab since it was closed for my honeymoon trip with DH last year. It had been several years since I rode SE last, so I didn't notice the rehab much, but I did enjoy the personalized ending.

We then headed out of Future World to snag out favorite spot at La Cantina de San Angel. We planned to have a very low key evening so we wanted to find a spot and sit until Illuminations. We figured once we had a spot we could take turns walking around and entertaining the kids.

Little did we know, a foreign tour group of teenaged kids had already sieged every table on the lagoon side of La Cantina and it was only 7:00....They weren't eating rather sprawled across the ground, tables, benches, and railings....My mom, who was looking for a low key evening with a margarita, was not too thrilled to be surrounded by very loud, very obnoxoius teenagers. Families with children are one thing, but entire groups of 50-ish high scoolers...that's a completely different ball game...:headache:

Since Mom and Tony were already ordering, we decided to grab tables for each of our families and eat our dinner. I was afraid we may not find a spot we liked better (at least not one with tables and chairs), so we decided to stick it out. Dad, Peg and I took the kiddos to ride Maelstrom while Mom and Tony relaxed for a bit.

Now let me start by saying that Maelstrom is one of my dad's favorite WDW rides. When we were young, he used to tell us that Vikings had their own call and we should recreate it for this ride. This has been a running joke in our family ever since, and Dad felt it was time to initiate S1 and S2. I had initiated DH on our honeymoon After a crash course in Viking call, they had it down.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/th_MVI_0516.jpg (http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/?action=view&current=MVI_0516.flv)

As you can tell, S2 thought it was the funniest thing she had ever done. She thinks my dad is hilarious, and she was clearly enjoying having him on this trip.

We waiting for about 15 minutes for Maelstrom, which fortunately was the longest line we waited in all week!:cool1: Thank God for following the touring plans and doing my research!!! :woohoo:

My favorite little Vikings! :laughing:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0517.jpg

We also hit up the Mexico pavillion and the ride over there before heading back to check on Mom and Tony. When we got back, Mom was ready for a break from the gagillion teenagers around her so I asked her to come find a glass of wine with me. DH and I had this fab bottle on our honeymoon, and I wanted to get another bottle to have the night he gets back for his midtour leave. I thought the wine was in France, but it was actually in Italy. The CM behind the counter in France suggested another to try, and it was wonderful! Mmmmm....just what I needed! :goodvibes

While we were heading back to La Cantina to see Illuminations, I came across a great spot along the railing near the Stave Church in Norway. I called Tony and he brought everyone over to where we were. We were much happier here, and we still had a great view! Before it got too dark, I snapped this great shot of World Showcase and the sunset:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0521.jpg
What a beautiful night! We were so lucky to be there the week before Fay!

A few shots before Illuminations:

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DH wanted to enjoy some of my wine before the show too!

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S2 knows I love Tinkerbell, and she was so geeked to show me her glow Tinkerbell!

Unfortunately, I don't really have any good photos of Illuminations. It is so difficult to photograph with all of the different elements!

We boogied out of the park as fast as we could after the show, and we only waited 10-15 minutes for a bus. While we were waiting, I started talking with the couple behind me about my LGMH. He didn't know what it was for so I explained and we got to talking about Disney and what not. While we were talking he said he used to work for Disneyland in their corporate offices. He has since moved on, but he still works for them part time as a vehicle driver for Spectromagic. What a neat job!!! DH would love it!

We got back to POFQ around 10:30, and Mom and I hit up the hot tub before heading to bed for another busy day! We were planning to head to Epcot in the morning and AK in the evening with a stop at DTD for dinner and shopping!!! :woohoo:

ArmyWife3-4

08-24-2008, 09:44 PM

;) Great trip report! And I also noticed your bags. VB hipsters?? Hate to sound dumb but what does VB stand for? And where did you get them??

No need to feel dumb! ;) It's Vera Bradley. If I remember correctly, they are actually clearancing the hipster out on the website so they're on a really great sale. My mom and I both carried them and they worked so well!! I like it also because I will definitely use it again unlike a backpack or other bag that I wouldn't use every day.

scottny

08-25-2008, 09:54 AM

:eek: too many teens in one place. were they the Brazilian tour groups?

glad u found a better spot to watch it.

great update and pics.

ArmyWife3-4

08-25-2008, 11:01 AM

I woke up this morning to an email from DH that he got his care package, and he LOVED it!!! :lovestruc He said the guys in his office were jealous of the collage I did for him on the inside. From the photos he sent, it looked like everyone around him was having fun fishing through the box of goodies! Thank you Dream Squad for making DH's day!!! :cheer2:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/Andrewwithcarepackage-edit.jpg
I blacked out his name and rank just in case any terrorists are lurking on the DISboards....:rotfl: Always have to follow OPSEC (Operational Security....) Never know when they might be lurking....:surfweb: ....:laughing:

luvfigment

08-25-2008, 03:12 PM

I am glad your Dh got his care package and it was a big hit. Also a great update on the TR...love the sunset picture before Illuminations!!!

scottny

08-25-2008, 04:53 PM

they should be jealous, it looked fantastic. looks like he really enjoyed it. :thumbsup2

Jenvenza

08-25-2008, 05:13 PM

I LOVE yout trip report! One of the only ones I have read all the way through. And I love what the Dream Squad did for your DH. What a special trip for you!

ArmyWife3-4

08-26-2008, 01:41 PM

I LOVE yout trip report! One of the only ones I have read all the way through.

I guess that means I better pick up the pace!!! I've been slacking the last few days!! :)

bellasmommy0

08-26-2008, 02:58 PM

Great pic of DH with his care package!! And yes you are slacking....:lmao: we want more!!!

Princess_K

08-26-2008, 03:48 PM

I usually just read people's trip reports and make no comments, but I wanted to tell you how much I'm enjoying yours! Your DH seems like a great guy, and I'm glad he enjoyed his care package!

missj1975

08-26-2008, 03:57 PM

I love your trip report and all your pictures, especially the one of your husband with his care package. :thumbsup2

Carrie772

08-26-2008, 04:50 PM

What a pleasure to read your report. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures with us.:)
Carrie

ArmyWife3-4

08-26-2008, 09:51 PM

Once again, we were up bright and early to be at the park for opening. We swear by this strategy for an optimized touring plan. DH was a bit skeptical of this plan last year, but by the second day of our honeymoon, he was thankful for the limited wait times and cooler mornings.

The kids were wide awake and ready for another day, and once Mom and I got our coffee :coffee: and Dad got his morning Diet Coke :drinking: , we were on our way to Epcot!

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Smile! It's 7:45 in the morning and you're on a bus to Epcot!!! :yay:

Catching the bus around 7:45 seems to put you at the parks at the ideal time. We were within the first 10 people at one of the turnstiles so we were happy. While we waited, S2 had to do her morning check in with DH.

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I also had to give DH some loving...:hug: :lovestruc
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I was really hoping the flag would blow in the wind a bit more for a better photo, but this will have to suffice.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0557.jpg
In recent months I have become a bit obsessed with the flag...(hmm...I wonder why...:upsidedow :blush:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0558.jpg

I took a few photos of the kids with the character while we waited for Future World to open.

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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0563.jpg

Since my dad gets INCREDIBLY motion sick (he can watch kids on swings and start to get sick :eek: ), he would have NEVER survived Soarin'. Although I was bummed he couldn't experience my favorite ride, this was the perfect opportunity for the rest of us. Once we got through the turnstiles, everyone gave their park passes to my dad to get us FPs for Soarin' while the rest of us rode Test Track.

scottny

08-27-2008, 08:07 AM

great update and pics.

ArmyWife3-4

08-27-2008, 10:29 PM

Thankfully, we were able to walk right not to TT. My mom was a bit freaked about it worrying that it would be too fast or could make her sick. I continually reassured her that it wasn't a scary ride at all, just a bit fast for a few seconds. She ended up really enjoying it and so did the kids.

Dad met up with us at the exit to TT with our FPs to Soarin', and we had a little time to kill before we could use them. We decided to check out my dad's favorite fountains. Clearly, Mom and Dad were having tons of fun!

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S1 and S2 seemed to have a good time too!
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By the time we played for a bit, it was time for....
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WAHOOOOOOOO!!!! :banana: :cool1: :worship: :woohoo: :yay:
Can you tell, this is my FAVORITE ride??!?!?! :rolleyes1 It is also DH's favorite ride so. He is a paratrooper so he though Soarin' rocked! Yes, he jumps out of planes with 100 pounds of Army gear at least monthly for the fun of it...Insane I know... :confused: )

After Soarin' it was time for a snack at Sunshine Seasons where I got a free cookie with my anniversary button! Mmmm...:) We love to eat the snacks here because the food is so fresh! We got was a mozzarella, tomato, basil salad and Dad's favorite, a chocolate covered rice krispie treat. It was great, as was the cookie and rice krispie treat! It held
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0571.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0572.jpg

I think at this point, we split ways with DCousins since they had done many of of the rides in Future World the day before when they had lunch at the Garden Grill. Mom, Dad, and I decide to head over to the Seas pavilion.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0573.jpg

Mom and Dad hadn't been on The Seas with Nemo and Friends so I was excited for them to see that! Unfortunately, if you can believe it :eek: , they hadn't seen the movie. I told them it's a MUST now that they've seen the stage show and been on the rides. Regardless, they enjoyed the creativity of the ride.
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0576.jpg
Right after this photo, I got yelled at for taking flash photos. Oops! We were still in the loading area!

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bayoumama2

08-28-2008, 07:57 AM

Great TR and pics. I'm hooked. Glad your DH enjoyed the care package and I know you had just as much fun preparing the care package as he did receiving it. I used to have so much fun doing care packages for my DH.

ArmyWife3-4

08-28-2008, 02:29 PM

By the time we finished up in The Seas pavilion, World Showcase was open. I love getting to WS early because it tends to be so quiet and peaceful. I know there are mixed reviews on WS, especially for families with kids, but I have always loved it! Perhaps that's the culturally aware part of me, but I just love to learn about other cultures and touring their little mini-countries in WS.

We spent the early afternoon strolling and eating around WS. I made sure to start out on the Canada said because we always, always start on the Mexico side and by the time we cross the bridge near Italy, we are spent. I wanted to change it up a bit! :) Dad was looking forward to seeing all of the gardens and plantings throughout WS.

I took some photos of Canda while we strolled along:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0588.jpg

Can I live in this cute little cottage please?
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0590.jpg

I can't recall if these were in Canada or not, but they were so pretty!
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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0592.jpg

As we continued out stroll, we came upon this hilarious little street skit.
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I was surprised that even as it got closer to noon, I was able to get photos on the streets without people walking in front of me.
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Ahh...Paris! ;)
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I didn't know they took a photo of my house and made it into a stained glass window! No one told me!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0599.jpg

Now it was time for a stop off for a Grand Marnier Slush. Yes, I know it's only 11:30, no I am not going to wait until noon! The BEST drink in the park! I could have drank these all day long!...I wonder if the recipe is on the recipes board...hmm.... :rolleyes1
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0600.jpg

Don't I look like I'm on :cloud9:
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scottny

08-28-2008, 05:52 PM

great update and pics.

11:30 who cares, it is 5 o' click somewhere. :lmao:

ArmyWife3-4

08-28-2008, 06:38 PM

great update and pics.

11:30 who cares, it is 5 o' click somewhere. :lmao:

It sure is!!!!! :cool1:

dolfinjuls

08-28-2008, 07:10 PM

Thanks for the updates! I love all of your Epcot pics..I didn't get a lot b/c that's the day it poured all day for us!

And the Grand Marnier...YUM! I loved it!

MEK

08-28-2008, 09:49 PM

I love your updates. I love that fountain at Epcot, too and I am definately trying that GM slushy - that looks so awesome!

ArmyWife3-4

08-29-2008, 07:24 PM

Hey Guys! I don't want you to think I've abandonded you! I have family coming into town for the weekend tonight so if I don't get a chance to update in the next few datys have no fear, I'll be back!!!!

Enjoy your holiday weekend! :cheer2:

luvfigment

08-29-2008, 07:35 PM

Looks like your day in EPCOT was great. That Grand Marnier Slush looks yummy I think I will have to try one in a little over 1 week!!! Can't wait to see how the rest of the day went.

Hope you have a great holiday weekend!

ArmyWife3-4

09-01-2008, 09:36 AM

Hey Everyone! I'm back after a busy weekend of visitors. Violet and I are worn out so what better way to relax than reflecting on our WDW trip on the Dis! :cool1:

After wandering around WS for awhile, we were starting to get hungry (and I needed some food to off set the GS slushie! :lmao: ) I knew that I wanted to try the combo platter in Morocco after seeing photos of it on here, but we also wanted to check out a few other countries because, well really, isn't that the whole point of WS eating?! :laughing:

Being Syrian, we were excited to try the foods in Morocco since many of them are similar to what we make. Yum! We decided to get one combo platter and split it three ways since we wanted to continue eating elsewhere.

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It was INCREDIBLE!!!! :thumbsup2 The taboulleh was very similar to my mom's and the rest of it was just so good. We ate every last morsel of it! I will definitely be going back here again...and again....and again....I think sometimes the food in Morocco gets overshadowed by the other countries, when really it is quite good!

After filling out bellies, we shopped around a bit, and Mom found a book that nearly made her cry. It was called, 'What's the Matter with Habibi'. Habibi is a term of endearment that my grandmother used to use. The book was about a camel named Habibi and what was making him so sad. Mom was super excited about it for her grandbabies someday....I told her SOMEDAY was the key word in that phrase...not any time soon...Keep dreamin' lady! :rotfl:

While we were eating, I took some photos of the area...

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ArmyWife3-4

09-01-2008, 10:00 AM

After exploring Morocco, it was off to the rest of the world...

I love :lovestruc checking out the store in Japan. There are so many interesting things, and the prices aren't bad at all. I also have a renewed interest in the country because my close friend and neighbor is from Japan. She makes wonderful Japanese food, and we talk about the country frequently. I called her while I was 'in Japan' and she was so confused! :confused3 :laughing: I had to explan to her that no, I wasn't really in Japan....just sort of in Japan....

DH and I love sushi, and several years ago he bought me a sushi making set and all of the dishes to go with it. While shopping in Japan, I picked up some very cool bamboo chopsticks as well as some candy for DH's care package and some candy for my neighbor and her son.

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Mom and Dad are not sushi fans so we decided not to eat in Japan and continued our way around the world...

While passing through the American Adventure, I had to snap a shot of this sign...
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Now, I know the Turkey Legs are much disputed on the Dis. Personally, I am not a fan...I just find it quite humurous that all of the other countries have these great, unique foods to share, and all we have to offer are funnel cakes and turkey legs. We do have a lot we could offer as a country, but unfortunately, this is what we're left with...I'm also surprised at how many people in WS are eating turkey legs when there are so many other great foods they could be trying, some of which you can't get many of the places...Anyways....I'll get off my soapbox now....:rolleyes1

Mom wanted to get some Chinese food so we headed over to China to see what we wanted to try over there. I love to remodel that WDW did of the CS restaurant here. The colors, tiles, and fixtures are just so unique.

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We decided to have the veggie stir-fry and a few egg rolls for the rest of our lunch. For CS Chinese food, it was quite good, and Mom really enjoyed it. While we were sitting, I took some great shots:

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I also took this shot, which I think is my favorite of the trip:
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We were starting to get pressed for time so we stopped off at Norway, and grabbed a piece of cake at the bakery before heading over to AK to catch the parade with DCousins.

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The cake wasn't to die for, but it was chocolate so I was happy! :)

scottny

09-01-2008, 10:01 AM

great update and pics.

We are eating at Marrakesh next week and I am looking forward to it.

kryptonqueen

09-01-2008, 11:11 AM

This is such an entertaining trip report, I'm really enjoying it.

luvfigment

09-01-2008, 04:51 PM

ArmyWife3-4

09-01-2008, 09:47 PM

Another great update. DH and I love Sushi also and so does my really good friend that I am going with next week. I think the day were are in Epcot she and I are going to have sushi for lunch. DH and I will actually have lunch at Teppan Edo so I am excited about that.

I will have to look at their chopsticks b/c I have always wanted to get my own...thanks for the idea! Were they expensive??

The chopsticks were actually really reasonably priced. Many of them were $3-4 each. They also have chopsticks with carrying cases to take with you to restaurants which were pretty cool too!

ArmyWife3-4

09-03-2008, 11:27 AM

After filling up on goodies at WS, it was time to meet up with DCousins at AK for the Jammin' Jungle Parade. I knew Dad would love the elements in this parade. It is so unique and creative. It is my favorite day time parade.

We hopped on the monorail, and Mom asked if we could ride in front. We were the only ones in line for the front so we were able to hop right in. Unfortunately, our driver was kind of a dud. He wasn't much for talking....Boo...DH and I sat in the front last summer and had a similar experience. Maybe the stick the non-people CM's driving the monorail...:rotfl:

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We hopped off at TTC, and then had to board a bus to AK. This actually wasn't as bad as I feared it might be. It didn't take long and was relatively easy to figure out. We don't usually go straight from one park to another so I wasn't sure how smoothly this would go.

When we arrived at AK, DCousins had already found a great shady spot to catch the parade. We were sitting just before the bridge to Africa on Discovery Island. It was perfect! Lots of shade and a nice ledge to sit on. DH enjoyed the foliage while we chit chatted and people watched.

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I could just eat her up! :)

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Crowd photo:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0637.jpg

We got stuck next to some wacko family who crabbed at each other the entire time we waited for the parade. They had two young children, perhaps 2 and 4?, that were in a stroller near the rope. The dad went to buy everyone a Mickey ice cream bar :mickeybar before the parade started. Mind you, this was the hottest day of our week with nearly 97 degree temps and lots and lots of humidity. We were in the shade, but still sweating like mad. When he returned, he gave each child their own ice cream bar. Well what do chocolate and ice cream both do in hot weather?! MELT!!! The parents proceeded to yell for the next 20 minutes.
'You're getting chocolate all over the stroller!' 'Don't! No! Don't let it melt all over you!' 'Stop letting the ice cream get all over your hands!' 'Now we're all covered in chocolate and ice cream!' 'We're not going to buy ice cream for you again!' 'You're making a mess!'
Good lord! The kids are not even 5 years old! Give them a break! :headache: :eek: Nothing bugs me more at Disney than to see parents yelling at their kids or pushing their kids too much. You're on V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N people! Relax! The world won't end if you miss one parade or aren't able to fit in one more ride...Geesh! :headache:

Anyways, I digress! Once the circus was over next to us, there was a little mini-parade of musicians that came by. I am not sure where they were from, but they reminded me of the Native American Pow-Wows my grandparents used to take it to as a child.

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there was a DS member helping to keep people entertained while waiting for the parade. He was super fun, and we had a good time talking about DH. He thought DH and I needed a photo together, and he was happy to help fill out DH. :laughing:
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The kids had a good time talking to him too!
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scottny

09-03-2008, 04:54 PM

great update and pics.

the pic is funny with the cm holding flat dh.

I experienced some of those parents in January, I just don't understand it.

ArmyWife3-4

09-04-2008, 11:39 PM

I have about a million photos of the parade. I just love it, and we had such a great location!

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ArmyWife3-4

09-04-2008, 11:42 PM

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My favorite I think! :)

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Phew! That was a lot of photos! :)

scottny

09-04-2008, 11:54 PM

great pics.

I have yet to see that parade and hopefully this time i will.

thnaks for posting.

CanadianWDWfan

09-06-2008, 11:19 PM

xoktenox

09-07-2008, 04:06 AM

its late and i know i wont read the whole thing tonight so im subscribing so i dont lose this one! :rolleyes:

ArmyWife3-4

09-07-2008, 09:40 PM

Glad to hear DH enjoyed his Disney care package. I'm sure his buddies begged for some of those treats. ;)
Your pics are beautiful of Epcot. What kind of camera do you use? I need to replace mine and I can't decide.
Grand Marnier slush, Yummy!!!:lovestruc
You captured the parade very well, I feel like I am right there.:thumbsup2

I had to replace my camera right before our trip so I did a LOT of research before purchasing the one I did. I wanted to be able to take good photos of the trip as well as good everyday photos for DH since I am constantly taking photos to send him!

I ended up getting a Canon PowerShot SD 750. I got a great deal on Amazon, and then I got a 4GB memory stick for it.:love:

I would HIGHLY recommend it! I love, love, love it!!!!

ArmyWife3-4

09-07-2008, 09:41 PM

its late and i know i wont read the whole thing tonight so im subscribing so i dont lose this one! :rolleyes:

Welcome!!! Glad you're here...even if it is a little late in the game! :)

ArmyWife3-4

09-07-2008, 09:59 PM

After a much later afternoon than usual, we were all ready for a NAP!!!! The kids were worn out after staying up late the previous two night. Knowing that they would be tired, we planned to have this be out DTD night. We headed back to POFQ for a bit of relaxing before hopping the boat to DTD. I love that ride. It's so peaceful, and the boat captains are usually very talkative and informative.

We had a great woman driving our boat, and since we were sitting at the front she noticed my anniversary pin. We got to talking about DH, and I honestly thought she was going to cry. What a wonderfully sweet woman. She promised to keep DH and I in her prayers. It was so nice of her.

She also told us about the plans to replace the tree houses along the river. They were not handicap accessible so they were torn down, and they are planning to replace them with new more accessible models. She had heard that they will be part of DVC, but they didn't say which resort they would be part of or if they would be their own.

She also talked about PI, and how they were closing it to make it more family friendly. She mentioned plans to put in a type of hot air balloon ride that goes several hundred feet in the air. No thanks! You won't see me up there!!! DH is the one that jumps out of planes, I like to keep my feet firmly in the ground!

Once we got to DTD, I wanted to try Earl of Sandwich. I had seen so many great photos on the DIs, and I was anxious to try it out. I was shocked at how great their prices were! The food was great too!

S2 and I waited outside while the others went inside to wait in line and order. S2 was entralled by the DJ getting people dancing. She was eager to get out and dance, and she was HILARIOUS!!! :rotfl2:

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The food came quickly, and it was great! Mom had a salad to save room for ice cream later, and the rest of us had sandwiches.

Mom's Greek Salad
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I had the grilled cheese with bacon and tomato! Yum!
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Dad had something with chicken and spinach. It was very good too!
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After dinner, it was time to hit up Goofy's Candy Company! I think I was drooling! Lol!
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Love them!
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CanadianWDWfan

09-07-2008, 11:51 PM

I have never been to the Goofy Candy Co. Everything looks sooo good. I will have to try Earl of Sandwich too, its very popular on the DIS. Thanks for the camera tip.:thumbsup2

scottny

09-08-2008, 01:42 AM

great update and pics

ArmyWife3-4

09-11-2008, 09:48 PM

Thanks to our Dream FPs at MK, we had a free morning since we had already hit up the biggies we had planned at MK for this day. This was perfect since we weren't sure when we'd be able to fit TSM into our schedule. Not being big intense ride people, there wasn't much we wanted to do at DHS so we hadn't made it a priority.

We, of course, arrived at DHS for rope drop and planned to head directly to TSM! I was so excited to try it out after reading all of the hype on the DIS.

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Once we got past the turnstiles, we each handed Tony our tickets so he could run ahead and get FPs for TSM so we could ride again later in the morning. We hopped in line and walked almost straight onto the ride. We definitely didn't wait more than 5 minutes to ride.

Once we got closer to the load area, I knew things were NOT going to be good for my dad. He has the worst motion sickness of anyone I know. I think he was getting green just watching the cars spin, but I knew there was no way he would walk out of line. Needless to say, Dad didn't enjoy the ride nearly as much as the rest of us did. I have to admit, by the end of the ride, even I was a little tummy tied from all the flopping around. All in all though, the rest of us LOVED the ride! Too bad poor Dad was green for a few hours afterwards!

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As we were walking out of TSM, the Green Army Guy was doing a character greeting!! YAHOO!!! :cool1: :banana: I was so excited! How fitting since DH is in the Army! :)

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After the Green Army Guy, we headed over to walk through One Man's Dream. I know this wasn't too exciting for the kids, but I am fascinated with Walt Disney so I enjoyed it as did Mom and Dad. Next, we headed over to Voyage of the Littler Mermaid. We wanted to make sure the kids got to see one show and since this was just started we hopped right in. I thought this show could really use some updating. The vocals were not up to Disney par IMO, and the set was just alright.

We also caught Muppets 3-D and used our TSM FPs before heading out, and we saw Donald as we passed the hat. S1 and D2 were so excited!. It was a great morning at DHS since we were able to get in and out quickly!

Next it's off to a wonderful evening at MK!!! :)

CanadianWDWfan

09-13-2008, 12:27 AM

I hope my DMom doesn't get queezy on TSM. I can't wait to try it next year. I'm sure my kids will love it. The army man is cute. ;)

scottny

09-13-2008, 01:17 AM

great update and pics.

I cannot wait to ride that.

xoktenox

09-15-2008, 07:08 PM

I also can not wait to ride TSM. S1 and S2 are so adorable and I think it's so cute that you have the cut out of your DH with you! I had to also say that I went and bought a VB hipster after seeing yours and the posts about them, i even got one of the retiring patterns thanks to your info. So thank you!:goodvibes

dolfinjuls

09-15-2008, 07:25 PM

Loved your day at DHS! And your S2 was too cute dancing at DTD!!!

bayoumama2

09-21-2008, 02:00 AM

I've been MIA since those two hurricanes. I've really enjoyed catching up on your TR. Great pics.

ArmyWife3-4

09-22-2008, 09:13 PM

Sorry for the hiatus! With DH gone I just get so overhelmed with life as a whole. There's always soooo much to do that I tend to run out of time for the things I enjoy, like the DIS! :) Regardless, I'm back now and ready to wrap up the trip!

We headed directly to MK from DHS for lunch and a few rides. Since we snacked in the morning, we put off lunch until we got to MK. NOT such a good idea. Mom is diabetic, and she has to really watch when she eats. When her blood sugar starts to drop, she needs to eat right away! Well, we decided to go to Cosmic Ray's since Mom wanted their roasted chicken....NEVER AGAIN! Not only were the lines ridiculious, but overall, it was so confusing. Sure enough, Mom waited in two lines which turned out to be one too many. THankfully, I went to find her, and I could tell she was getting low. She went to sit down and wait until I brought the food back. Nothing bad happened, thankfully, but it was such a hassle to eat there. I don't plan to ever go back there again....The food wasn't too bad.

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While we waited to lunch, Tony ran over to grab FPs for Space Mountain since we were right around the corner. The timing was perfect so that we could come back later in the evening to use the FPs.

Here's a crowd pic of MK in the mid-afternoon. YIKES! Not my fav time to be in the parks!

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We hit up a few quickie rides before heading back to POFQ for beignets, a quick swim, and a nap....

Mmmm....beignets!

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bayoumama2

09-23-2008, 12:06 AM

Yummmm beignets and cafe au lait. Had some from Cafe Dumonde in New Orleans just the other day. Hope yours were as good.

scottny

09-23-2008, 02:32 PM

great update.

crowds don't look too bad. I have seen them so much worse.

I found the wait at Cosmic Ray's long also.

luvfigment

09-23-2008, 06:08 PM

Just got all up to date on the Trippie. Hope things are going well and can't wait to read more!

jjk

09-23-2008, 06:43 PM

Just catching up after returning from our own trip, great pictures :goodvibes

ArmyWife3-4

09-23-2008, 09:39 PM

After a relaxing afternoon, we headed back to MK for the evening. I just love being there in the evenings!

I had been looking forward to trying Tomorrowland Noodle Terrace for quite some time since it was closed for our honeymoon last year. We headed straight over there upon arriving at MK for an early dinner. I had the noodle bowl (I think!) and it was great!

In a true small world story, while standing in line waiting for our order to come up, I realized that the man in the hat in front of me looked incredibly familiar. I thought, 'no way, I can't be seeing someone I know at Disney!' I proceeded to check out the rest of the family, and then realized that, yes, I did in face know them!!!!! What a small world!!!! The family is very close friends with DH's family back in Michigan. He has mentored DH since he joined the Army, and we are very close with their family. I had no idea they were going to be there the same week!!! I was able to sit with them and have a wonderful dinner and enjoy a nice conversation with them.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0747.jpg
We of course took a photo with DH to show him how much fun we had! :)

After dinner and a nice chat with the family friends, we milled around the park to hit the rides that were easier to hop on with a busy park. We headed over to Adventureland to catch the Tiki Room and Pirates.
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0749.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0750.jpg
I had to take a few more photos of the details in the park...

After a few rides, I had to stop for a much awaited Dole Whip. Mmmm.... While waiting to pay, the CM told me to take it that it was on him for my anniversary. :cool1: Dole Whips are great, but they're even better when they're free! :)

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0751.jpg
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0752.jpg

Crowd photo!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0754.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

09-23-2008, 09:43 PM

Oh, and I wanted to say thanks for sticking around! :) I know I feel off the wagon for a little bit, but I'm still here! I'll do my best to keep on track for the rest of our trip!

scottny

09-24-2008, 08:40 PM

great update and pics.

ok that 2nd crowd photo was :scared1: i hate crowds.

luvfigment

09-25-2008, 10:46 AM

Great update!

vfair

09-25-2008, 12:15 PM

Really enjoying your PT - especially all the photos. Prayers for you and a safe return home for your DH.

AshleyMWC

09-26-2008, 11:45 AM

I just TR and I love it! I had read about the dream your DH got, a few weeks ago, so I was really excited to see that you had a trip report. Your family sounds like so much fun, and I can't wait to hear more about your trip!

I will you and your DH in my prayers, and tell him thanks for all that he is doing for us over there :)

luvfigment

10-05-2008, 05:09 PM

Just checking in to make sure everything is ok...you haven't been around to update lately. Hope you are doing well...and looking forward to hearing from you soon!

ArmyWife3-4

11-10-2008, 08:45 PM

Welllll.....I HATE when I don't finish things I started...Soooo I am going to try and wrap this TR up. Better late than never right?! I figure in order to get anyone to read our PTR for April, I have to show that I can follow through with a TR from the previous trip, right?

I first have to apologize for being so off the ball lately. Work and this deployment are really getting the best of me. I am planning to quit my job in January to take a few masters classes, spend a few weeks at home in Michigan, and finally get a chance to volunteer a bit more. I love my job, but my boss is from another planet. We do not get along, and it's finally come to the point where I can't take it any longer. With a deployed husband and family far away, a crummy boss is just a bit too much to handle. Sadly, my personal internet time has been almost completely cut off...(Alright, I know...I'm at work not home...but still...I needed a little Dis in my day! ;)), and this has really limited my time to work on the TR. Needless to say....I am going to work hard at wrapping this up!

If any of you are still here, thanks for sticking around and having faith in me! :goodvibes

ArmyWife3-4

11-10-2008, 09:09 PM

We spent the rest of the evening tool around MK and enjoying the night. We didn't rush to do much just hopped in the short lines and rode anything we felt like.

After riding what we felt like, Mom, Dad, and I staked out our spots at Tomorrowland Noodle Terrace. Although it's not a dead on shot of the castle, it's a great place to see Tink from. Being a Tink lover, I was thrilled....

While we waited, I walked around and took some photos. I just love the old school lighting on Main Street.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0762.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0773.jpg

It was so nice to just sit and spend some time with my parents that night. I miss them so much living away, and this trip was just great...

I just love this photo:
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0768.jpg

Here are a few more from Wishes:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0770.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0767.jpg

ArmyWife3-4

11-10-2008, 09:26 PM

We got up bright and early once again, and the kids were stoked to get over to AK and ride Kali River Rapids. Dad and Tony were off to enjoy their birthday present of a Segway lesson at Epcot, so Mom Peg and I took the kids over to AK for AM EMH.

We didn't think to check and make sure Kali was open for EMH, and alas, it wasn't. We decided to change plans and head over to the Safari. You can't ever get enough of that ride, and there's always something new to see. We had great seats, and there were SOOO many animals out and about. If I remember corretly, it had rained the night before, and it was a cool morning so the animals were extra active.

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0779.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0788.jpg

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http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0816.jpg

After the Safari, it was nearly time to catch Kali. We stopped by for a tea latte and a tea slush (yum!) and then it was time to get WET!

We hopped in line for Kali and after one ride, we were SOAKED!!!

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0825.jpg

Don't I look happy???
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0822.jpg

bayoumama2

11-11-2008, 12:31 AM

I'm still with you, just loved your TR and haven't given up. I just knew you'd come back and finish. I'm gearing up for our trip in 10 days and am so excited. :yay:

ArmyWife3-4

11-11-2008, 06:30 AM

YAY!!! I'm so glad you stuck around and had some faith in me! :)

luvmyboys

11-11-2008, 09:15 AM

ArmyWife3-4

11-11-2008, 09:57 AM

Spent the morning reading your entire PT and TR! What can I say?:confused3 I got sucked in!!!

I'm really enjoying your report, love the pics, and want to say thanks to you and your DH for your service to our country! :hug:

Thanks! :) It means a lot to both of us that people are so grateful for his service. I sure am proud of him! :cheer2:

Glad you've joined in!!! Soon enough, I'll wrap this up and suck you into my April PTR for DH's mid-tour leave trip! Let's hear it for 7 nights for the price of 4!!! :cool1:

ArmyWife3-4

11-11-2008, 10:28 AM

After Kali, we still had some time to kill before we met up with Dad and Tony again. All S1 could talk about was digging for dinosaurs. All morning long, he kept telling us all he wanted to do was dig. We headed over to the playgroud in Dinoland for S1 and S2 to play, but we didn't see a place to dig. Since there was only on was in and out. We let the kids go, and Mom, Peg, and I just found a place to relax. We all kept an eye on S1 and S2 as we sat to make sure they didn't go too far.

About 15 minutes after arriving, Peg realized that she could no longer locat S1. Mom and I tried to keep her calm saying he clearly didn't leave since we were sitting at the exit. He was probably just up near the top of the playground or sitting inside one of the tunnels. As the next few minutes went along, Peg broke into more of a panic. Mom stayed at the entrance/exit, and Peg and I started climbing. By this point, even I was starting to get a bit nervous.

Once I got near the top, I realized that there was a walkway over the top of the sidewalk below leading over to the area where children could 'dig' for a dinosaur. Sure enough, S1 and S2 were quietly digging away trying to find their own dinosaur....PHEW! :hug:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0827.jpg

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They would have stayed here digging all day long! They were perfectly content, and it was nice to get some peace and quiet from the craziness of the park. Mom and I had a great chat with the CM stationed there while we waited, and we talked all about her job at WDW and how she started working there.

Once we were able to finally draw the kids away from digging, they were covered in the little sandy pebbles. Since they were wet from Kali, they had pebbles everywhere! In there shoes, in their hair, down their pants....:lmao:

ArmyWife3-4

11-12-2008, 07:57 PM

After spending the morning at AK, Mom and I split off from Peg and the kids to head to MK to pick up a few things. I wanted to pick up a few small things for DH's care package, Tinkerbell earrings for myself, and a some sort of goodies for the neighbors watching Violet and my co-workers. I didn't realize that the candy apples at MK were just as expensive as the ones at Goofy's but they weren't nearly as fancy. I decided I'd rather swing over to DTD to get some great, fresh apples instead of getting them at MK. We headed back to the hotel for naps and a swim before heading to DTD.

I love the boat ride from POFQ to DTD so I was quiet happy to get one more chance for a ride. It's just such a calm, beautiful trip down the river. I am sure this will all change once the 'tree houses' are re-built, but I enjoyed it while we were there. I also really enjoy chatting with the boat captains. They seem to have some of the most interesting stories, and we really enjoyed riding with each of them.

I took some fun and funky photos while we were at DTD. I managed to snap some decent ones in the midst of salivating over the caramel apples! :rotfl:

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0846.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0848.jpg

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn161/ArmyWife3-4/IMG_0851.jpg

After getting our stock pile of sweets and some great Christmas decorations, it was off to MK for the evening. We spent another evening at the Noodle Terrace watching Tink and Wishes for the last time. It's always so bittersweet the last night of a WDW trip. On one hand it's over, but on the other, it's time to start planning the next trip!

ArmyWife3-4

11-14-2008, 07:40 AM

It's always such a bummer day for me on the last day of our trip. This time though, it was compounded with having to say good bye to my family. I knew I wouldn't see my parents again until Thanksgiving and I wouldn't see DCousins until after the New Year.:sad1: My family and I are incredibly close, and being away from them gets so hard. Knowing I'd have to say good bye and then go home without DH was enough to make me want to cry before we even got to the airport. I tried to swallow the lump in my throat and enjoy the rest of the day.

We woke up, checked out of our rooms, packed up our luggage, checked in for our flights and got ready for one last ride on Soarin', the best Disney ride in our opinion. What a great way to end the trip! :) We also hopped on Living with the Land, another favorite, before my incredible, unbelievable experience with the Dream Squad. You can read all about it here: DH and Dream Squad (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1920864).

I can honestly say this was the most amazing Disney experience I have ever had. Clearly the tears were rolling not only from my family but the Dream Squad as well.

After this wonderful experience, we made a mad dash back to POFQ to finish checking out and catch the MAgical Express. Thankfully, the wonderful Dream Squad experience took my attention off the looming goodbye at the airport.

Once we got to MCO, it took everything in me to hold back the tears. I did alright until we got to the gate, and then it was all over. Thankfully I know I will see them again in just a few short weeks from now.

Overall it was an incredible trip, and it was so fun to re-visit my childhood memories with my parents at WDW once again. Now it's on to planning our R&R trip with DH!!! :)

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed my TR even though it took me several months to write! :rotfl: I promise to hopefully do a much better job with our R&R PTR!!!:banana: