A Dis Veteran and New Addict's WDW Vacation Jan .2009

[Nemo32]

Hi all :hippie:

This will be my second PTR/TR. My first documented my May 2008 trip w/ my DBF, which can be found in my signature if you feel ever so inclined to read it.

So, my trip is in 23 days! It is very soon and very last minute to be starting a TR, but I figured I'd get a head start and acquainted with readers. We will be traveling from Jan. 10th-17th and staying at POP century w/ no DDP. :scared1: I must admit- I'm a Dis snob as all of my previous trips were at DVC homes and always on the DDP. But we're on a budget- I don't care, as long as I'm in WDW.

So, the cast:

Me (Katie): I'm a Dis FANATIC. However, I am not impressed by Disney's latest creations, such as things like HSM...don't flame me! But I am true to the Dis classics and of course, my obsession centers around WDW. I love planning for it, even if it means planning for others. And like the rest of us on the Dis, my dream job would be to plan WDW vacations and spread the magic to others. :wizard:

DBF (Joe): Joe was introduced as a 24 yr. old to WDW last May. Kinda sad he never experienced the Dis as a youngin'. And prior to our trip he thought I was CRAZY for my obsession and didn't understand all my planning. However, he is a changed man. He LOVES Disney and compares all to its wonders. He isn't as bad as me and didn't see this trip as a NECESSITY...just an option.

But I'll get more into the details of how our 2nd Dis trip within a year came into being in the next post.

Here's a pic of us on the monorail from our May 2008 trip:

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture080.jpg

So, I promise for LOTS of pictures, esp. with my brand new Nikon Coolpix S550 and an awesome, fun-filled TR! I also promise for easy navigation in my first post.

In the meantime, if you'd like to get to know us better, you can read my previous TR.

Next up...the story of how our trip came to be, thanks to the 4/3 deal and my persuasive techniques.

PTR
Page 1, Post 1: Introductions
Page 1, Post 4: Our Spontaneous Decision to go to WDW
Page 1, Post 6: Our Itinerary
Page 1, Post 11: 8 Days!!
Page 1, Post 12: Not to be Missed Attractions
Page 2, Post 22: 4 Days!!
Page 3, Post 42: Wdw Tomorrow!!

TR
Page 4, post 46: We're home!
Page 4, post 48: Day One - Jan. 10th - Arrival
Page 4, Post 55: Flaws in the Magic
Page 5, Post 63: Day Two - Jan. 11th - DHS
Page 5, Post 71: Day Two - Jan. 11th - DTD
Page 6, Post 78: Day Three - Jan. 12th - MK

[jjohnson]

I may get on the boards more now ;)

[Diamondintheruff]

Thanks for letting me know you started your Pre-Trip.

I can't wait to hear all about it!

[Nemo32]

No readers? Maybe there's lurkers...

Well, so on my last trip to WDW in May DSM (Step-Mom) and my DSister decided we'd go to WDW together in Jan. '09. However, that fell through and then I was promised a trip with the whole family in Aug. '09, but that fell through also. After this the Free Dining in Dec. came out and I REALLY wanted to go for my birthday, but no one really wanted me in FL during my birthday...so, then I thought perhaps I could convince DBF to go in Jan. '09.

He didn't like the idea of going to WDW again so close to our last trip. BUT THEN the buy 4 nights, get 3 free deal came out and I was like OMG. I kept telling him this NEVER happens and we'd never be able to go to WDW for SOO cheap. I also left tantalizing videos in his e-mail, like of his favorite rides Dinosaur and Space Mt. Eventually I knew he was coming around when he started talking about our last trip and we finally decided to book the trip with only a little over a month to plan.

That alone was scary because I'm a plan-aholic. So, I quickly got on the phone w/ a Dis rep and made dining reservations and onto TGM for a crowd calendar (w/ the help of DSM).

Ok, so next time I'll give you the run down of my planned week and our ADRs...and at some point I'll have an hourly plan of what we do in the parks. :rolleyes1 Like I said, very organized.

I promise it'll get more entertaining!!

[jjohnson]

So....entertain us:rockband:

[Nemo32]

Ok, so for the run down of our week...

Sat. Jan. 10th
Flight to MCO arriving around 7:15pm (was the cheapest flight)
DTD

Sun. Jan. 11th
DHS & EP

Mon. Jan. 12th
MK & EP

Tues. Jan 13th
DHS & MK

Wed. Jan. 14th
AK & AK

Thurs. Jan. 15th
EP & DHS

Fri. Jan. 16th
MK & MK

Sat. Jan. 17th
AK
Flight to LGA around 6:50pm

We also have a lunch booked at Chefs de France and dinner at Boma & O'Hana.

I've never tried Boma before, which is why I'm looking forward to it quite a bit. I'm also a little bummed about not getting to MK until the 3rd day of the trip, but with the way the crowd calendar and other things worked out that's just how it has to be. We also plan on attending all the nighttime shows and some parades (because what's Disney w/out some fireworks?).

Anywho...next time I'll have a list of 'not-to-be-missed' attractions, including some we skipped last trip.

[Diamondintheruff]

Anywho...next time I'll have a list of 'not-to-be-missed' attractions, including some we skipped last trip.

I wonder what those could be?......

You did chefs de france last year right? or was it the other french one?

[Nemo32]

I wonder what those could be?......

You did chefs de france last year right? or was it the other french one?

Chefs de France and Le Cellier...Le Cellier was booked so we opted for Chefs.

[jjohnson]

no fans yet?:hug:

[Nemo32]

no fans yet?:hug:

Not yet...maybe its the title? As soon as I get a chance I'll be posting more.

[Nemo32]

I have 8 days until WDW...I'm not feeling the excitement though. I guess I'm still in shock that I'm going at all.

I'm also a little worried...there seems to be a stomach bug in WDW, and all over for that matter. Well, hopefully Joe and I will get through the week without being affected by this.

But 8 DAYS!!! I haven't made my daily itineraries yet or started gathering things to bring or re-checked park hours and all of those details.

Much to do...so LITTLE time!

[Nemo32]

ONE WEEK FROM TODAY I'LL BE GOING THROUGH LGA SECURITY! :cool1:

Anyway, here's a list of what attractions/rides we will be seeing while in WDW.

MK

BTMR
Buzz
Toontown
Tiki Room
HM
IASW
JC
Monsters Inc.
Philharmagic
Tea Cups
Peter Pan
PoTC
Snow White
Space Mt.
TTA
Speedway
CoP
Carousel


EP

World Showcase
Innoventions
SE
Nemo
Turtle Talk
Soarin'
TT
Honey, I Shrunk the Audience
M:S


AK

Dinosaur
EE
FotLK
Flights of Wonder (despite my fear of birds)
KS
Maharaja & Pangani


DHS

Great Movie Ride
Indiana
RnR
Star Tours
ToT
One Man's Dream

So, that's the list. I'm a little worried about weather in NY next Saturday. There are supposed to be snow showers, I just hope it doesn't delay our flight. And then there's the added fear of a supposed stomach bug in WDW. :scared1: I've been researching and have found out that Purell and Lysol won't do the job on protecting us, we just have to steer clear of the ill, which is hard to do in a crowd.

Well, until next time...

[DearDaisyinDurham]

:flower3: Loved reading your PTR!!

You must be getting so excited!! :banana:

[Nemo32]

:flower3: Loved reading your PTR!!

You must be getting so excited!! :banana:

Thank you! I hope you continue to read. The excitement is building and this week I get to organize and make our daily itineraries, which is like a hobby for me.

[Diamondintheruff]

I've been researching and have found out that Purell and Lysol won't do the job on protecting us

Okay tell me about this research....


Years ago when they had the "SARS" scare in Toronto everyone was wearing those face masks. I think I still have some. Do you want me to express post them to you?

[Nemo32]

Okay tell me about this research....


Years ago when they had the "SARS" scare in Toronto everyone was wearing those face masks. I think I still have some. Do you want me to express post them to you?

:lmao:

Supposedly that stuff only kills bacteria...and norovirus is, well a virus. :sad2:

[jjohnson]

Okay tell me about this research....


Years ago when they had the "SARS" scare in Toronto everyone was wearing those face masks. I think I still have some. Do you want me to express post them to you?

:laughing:

[jjohnson]

Wow the weather is going to be almost perfect. I would love to go to Disney and not sweat for once.

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USFL0372?from=36hr_topnav_undeclared

[jandj524]

Hi

Just read your "must rides"...I noticed that Toy Story Mania (DHS) wasn't on the list. If you like Buzz you have to try this ride...only...get there bright and early, fast passes run out quickly.

Have a great trip!

[Diamondintheruff]

Wow the weather is going to be almost perfect. I would love to go to Disney and not sweat for once.

But it wouldn't really be disney if you didn't sweat.

I'm heading there in April and I'm actually thinking about packing some long pants. It just seems wrong somehow. Maybe I'll just take capri's instead.

[Nemo32]

Wow the weather is going to be almost perfect. I would love to go to Disney and not sweat for once.

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USFL0372?from=36hr_topnav_undeclared

YAY for perfect weather! Hopefully it won't snow the day we leave and delay our flight.

Hi

Just read your "must rides"...I noticed that Toy Story Mania (DHS) wasn't on the list. If you like Buzz you have to try this ride...only...get there bright and early, fast passes run out quickly.

Have a great trip!

Thanks for reading! I meant to put Toy Story Mania on there, oops.

But it wouldn't really be disney if you didn't sweat.

I'm heading there in April and I'm actually thinking about packing some long pants. It just seems wrong somehow. Maybe I'll just take capri's instead.

:rotfl: jjohnson has been in April and has told me about some HOT HOT days.

[Nemo32]

Count down with me!!

I can't believe it is such a small amount of time. I am nowhere near ready to go. It is so weird thinking that THIS Saturday I'll be in WDW.

We decided to change our Sat. night festivities from DTD to MK, just to stroll and hear Cinderella Castle say, "Welcome back!" I need to call Dis tomorrow and add a day to our ticket.

Today Joe bought new luggage (for $35!) to use for the trip. I have my very own Mickey Mouse luggage, I'll post pics.

I've also come down with a bit of a stuffy nose and scratchy throat, I'm hoping it doesn't progress further than a scratch. But in the meantime, I've been taking Vitamin C and getting lots of rest- hopefully that'll help combat more frightful things going around right now in WDW.

Again, 4 DAYS!! :wizard: It's going to be over TOO soon!

[jjohnson]

I think it's hot in Epcot 24/7 365 days a year;) either that or old age:laughing:

I think it was smart to change the first night. It would be hard to wait 3 days to see the castle. When are you going to DTD?

[Diamondintheruff]

So did you call disney and add another day?

I only resisted the urge to go to MK the first night when I knew I would be there first thing the next morning.

I hope you're feeling better. I've been fighting a scratchy throat the last few days too. I almost bought a box of Cold-RX or whatever it is called that is supposed to shorten the length of time you have the cold. But instead I opted for chicken soup, vitamin C and a nice hot bath.

[Nemo32]

I think it's hot in Epcot 24/7 365 days a year;) either that or old age:laughing:

I think it was smart to change the first night. It would be hard to wait 3 days to see the castle. When are you going to DTD?

That would mean no DTD. I may add the day and just decide when we get there.

So did you call disney and add another day?

I only resisted the urge to go to MK the first night when I knew I would be there first thing the next morning.

I hope you're feeling better. I've been fighting a scratchy throat the last few days too. I almost bought a box of Cold-RX or whatever it is called that is supposed to shorten the length of time you have the cold. But instead I opted for chicken soup, vitamin C and a nice hot bath.

Unfortunately, my scratchy throat has turned into a full blown flu. This is the 1st time today I'm out of bed. Got the aches and chills so bad and I'm really burning up. Luckily (well I suppose on how you look at it) my mother is getting over the flu and has set aside some anti-biotics for me. Hopefully I'll be better by Saturday. I just hope my immune system won't be so weak that I'll get sick again at WDW with the worse of two evils.

[Diamondintheruff]

You'll be fine with the antibiotics.

My Jedi was pale, feverish, and in bed for two days before we got antibiotics into him last sunday. Turns out he had tonsilitis and I swear within two hours of his first dosage he was jumping around the house again.

If it is a long dosage of antibiotics you might still be covered when you go to WDW.

Anyway you've still got some time to recover and believe that you will make it through it. I'm sending you some pixie dust from here to help you. Of course the canadian dollar isn't what is was a few months ago but hopefully it will be enough!

:wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

[Nemo32]

You'll be fine with the antibiotics.

My Jedi was pale, feverish, and in bed for two days before we got antibiotics into him last sunday. Turns out he had tonsilitis and I swear within two hours of his first dosage he was jumping around the house again.

If it is a long dosage of antibiotics you might still be covered when you go to WDW.

Anyway you've still got some time to recover and believe that you will make it through it. I'm sending you some pixie dust from here to help you. Of course the canadian dollar isn't what is was a few months ago but hopefully it will be enough!

:wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

Thanks for the pixie dust! Glad to hear Jedi is feeling better!

[Diamondintheruff]

But how are you feeling????

[Nemo32]

But how are you feeling????

I've been feeling better today, less fever. I still have aches from my ears down to my neck though. I've been getting a lot of rest and drinking lots of OJ.

It's given me a lot of time to work the details in our itinerary for the trip. That's an upside. :)

[CW4DW]

Just found your report and am reading through it... I am so jealous!!! I wish I was leaving on Saturday for Disney... Right now we are planning December but we might have to plan a shorter trip in there somewhere. Hope you are feeling better and can really enjoy your time at DW...

[Nemo32]

Just found your report and am reading through it... I am so jealous!!! I wish I was leaving on Saturday for Disney... Right now we are planning December but we might have to plan a shorter trip in there somewhere. Hope you are feeling better and can really enjoy your time at DW...

Thanks for reading! I would just love to go in Dec...but maybe a short trip in between would be a nice Dis fix for you. I can't believe I'm leaving Saturday, it doesn't seem real!

[iluv2go2disney]

Just found your TR. Wow your trip is close. I leave in 9 days. :cool1:

[Nemo32]

Just found your TR. Wow your trip is close. I leave in 9 days. :cool1:

Yours is pretty close to...SINGLE DIGITS!! Thanks for reading!

[iluv2go2disney]

I can't believe you only have 2 more days. Are you all packed and ready to go? I want to see pics of that luggage. :)

[Nemo32]

I can't believe you only have 2 more days. Are you all packed and ready to go? I want to see pics of that luggage. :)

Packing begins tomorrow. I'm waiting for laundry and to get the suitcase from the attic. I'll post pics when I'm done.

[Diamondintheruff]

I'm off for a weekend away with just DH so I might not get another chance to wish you a safe and magical trip.

I'll be thinking of you and wishing I was there too!

[Nemo32]

I'm off for a weekend away with just DH so I might not get another chance to wish you a safe and magical trip.

I'll be thinking of you and wishing I was there too!

How romantic. :lovestruc

Well, have fun...I know I will be! ;)

[Diamondintheruff]

How romantic. :lovestruc

Well, have fun...I know I will be! ;)

It's just one night and it's not like he's taking me to Disney.

Oh wait he is. Of course that is not till April. You get to go like tomorrow!

So jealous!

I hope you are feeling better. I was actually home sick today.:sick: Terrible sinus pain. DH was teasing me that I was just trying to get out of our night away.

[Nemo32]

It's just one night and it's not like he's taking me to Disney.

Oh wait he is. Of course that is not till April. You get to go like tomorrow!

So jealous!

I hope you are feeling better. I was actually home sick today.:sick: Terrible sinus pain. DH was teasing me that I was just trying to get out of our night away.

I've been feeling a lot better...I hope you get better in time for your getaway.

[jjohnson]

I just saw this in the allears newsletter & thought of you:

Space Mountain will close April 19 through late 2009 for refurbishment

You see you DO know more than Robb;)

[Nemo32]

I just saw this in the allears newsletter & thought of you:

Space Mountain will close April 19 through late 2009 for refurbishment

You see you DO know more than Robb;)

:lmao:

[Nemo32]

So, I won't have any pictures tonight. Sorry! I went to work today, even though I'm not fully better and it completely drained me. I feel ssooo tired...I hope I'm not like this all week. I need park stamina!

There is supposed to be snow all day here tomorrow so I hope there aren't flight delays or at least not long ones. I'm very stressed and it hasn't really sunk in yet that I'm going to WDW, so right now my nerves over delays and illness are getting the best of me.

But I'm all packed and ready to go! I'd show you pictures but it seems like such an energy stealer to take the pics off the camera. I promise the pics in my first installment!

Well, I'm off to bed...and tomorrow magic awaits! :wizard: "See" you soon!

[Diamondintheruff]

You should be home soon. I hope you had a great trip.:thumbsup2

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

Great PTR! Looking forward to hearing how it went!

[jjohnson]

She's probably still sleeping as she had a late flight last night.

[Nemo32]

I'm home! :sad:

We had a great trip. It was a bit chilly, but I def. got spoiled with low crowds. And we didn't get the infamous bug going around. :cheer2:

I'll write my first installment tomorrow. Thanks for reading!

[Diamondintheruff]

Glad you are back safe.

[Nemo32]

So, we're back and very sad about it. Going to WDW almost seems like a dream. I occasionally ask myself if it really happened. Joe has been dreaming of the parks...now he's officially addicted if he goes there in his sleep. ;)

Anywho, I have some observations from recent travels, some good and others bad...but that'll come in time. However, we did have a FABULOUS trip with lots of warm and even cold weather! There was also almost no wait for rides, even the biggies. Most wait time I saw all week (except our departure day) was 45 minutes and that was for Soarin'.

I also enjoyed POP. However, coming from a former only Deluxe DVC frequenter...some of the magic is definitely gone when staying at a value. I felt as though we weren't right in the middle of the magic...I could only find it when we went to the parks and when we returned to the hotel I was just waiting for the next day. Not much to do at POP, but the food was good. If staying on a budget and you must ABSOLUTELY go to WDW, like us, a value is perfectly fine for sleeping and showering.

So...the report...

We were scheduled to leave LaGuardia airport at 2:55pm on Jetblue, but it was snowing quite a bit so we were concerned we might not even get to FL. My mother drove us to the airport and we picked Joe up at his apt. promptly at 10:00am. Before that my mother decided to run errands, like going to the Post Office and the Bank. I was concerned she might purposely be trying to delay us. :scratchin

BTW, this is my lovely Disney luggage.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture045.jpg

After Joe we picked up my grandmother, who wanted to see us off. We arrived at the airport by 11:30am and had lunch. This was the first time I broke out the Lysol wipes. Before, during and yes even after I was concerned about getting the stomach bug so we brought an arsenal of protection.

Around 1:30pm they left Joe and I. Not without taking a picture first though.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture047.jpg

It was about 20 degrees in NY, so those mere sweaters didn't keep us warm when checking in our bags...but we were expecting 60 degrees in FL.

So, after they departed, in true Joe fashion, he had to browse the bookstore at a snail pace when all I wanted to do was get through security.

We went through security at about 2:00pm, when we informed our plane was arriving a little late. We boarded by 2:45pm and were off a little late than expected.

Fast forward through the flight --> we arrive 20 minutes early to FL! :cheer2:

I got seriously turned around at the airport and ended up on the wrong side. In a hurry to get to MK, we ran across the airport to ME check-in. It was fast and easy and we loaded the (correct) ME bus (check last TR) and yes, it did have the right ME Welcome Video.

We arrive at POP by no later than 7:00pm. This is the view of POP outside the main area.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture338-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture337-1.jpg

Check-in took a bit, but that's because we requested the maid re-clean our room with special care. After that we dropped off our bags and jumped on a bus to MK. I couldn't believe it was really happening! This is a trend throughout the trip as we often stopped and asked ourselves "Are we really here? After so short a time?" What was also said a lot was "Enjoy it before it's over." That usually was Joe though. I think he meant well by trying to get me to savor everything, but it only made me realize how fast it really does go!

Anyway, so we arrived at MK around 8:00pm...just as Wishes was starting. I wasn't too happy because I knew we weren't going to watch it, so I didn't want to hear it. We covered our ears.

Joe, wanting to always get in as many rides as possible (even though I remind him often of the Disney atmosphrere), wanted to check out Space. That was a no go - 45 min. wait. All I wanted to do was remind Cinderella Castle that I was back.

So, we went to see Philharmagic (our favorite), which was a walk-on. After that we went to eat at Columbia Harbour House, after washing for 30 seconds (before and after) of course.

Some odd things to note - Disney was still using the "Happy Holidays" cups AND the lights were still on the castle. I'll get into how that affected us later. They also left up lots of "Year of a Million Dreams" decorations. Guess they wanted to pretend to get people's hopes up because the new promo is SOOO bad...all people get are buttons, come on, really? :confused3 So, throughout the trip, as you'll see, we didn't really experience the "What Will You Celebrate" decorations or festivities, but that's because no CMs were talking about it.

I'll show pictures next time (Photobucket just stopped working).

Anyway, after eating we left the park before it closed to avoid the crowds. We went back to the room unpacked and used Lysol on everything.

Sorry I can't get the rest of the photos up. Next time...DHS!

[jjohnson]

:thumbsup2

[william4192]

Subscribing. I think you are a very funny writer. I'm trying to figure out if you refer to germs or Disney more :) Keep it coming!

[Diamondintheruff]

Before that my mother decided to run errands, like going to the Post Office and the Bank. I was concerned she might purposely be trying to delay us.

She wouldn't dare!

this is my lovely Disney luggage.


Love it! Was that just for the lysol?

Check-in took a bit, but that's because we requested the maid re-clean our room with special care

Do you do this at check in our did you request that earlier?

After that we went to eat at Columbia Harbour House,

What did you have? I've never been.

[Nemo32]

:thumbsup2

:goodvibes

Subscribing. I think you are a very funny writer. I'm trying to figure out if you refer to germs or Disney more :) Keep it coming!

Thanks for the compliment! Glad you're enjoying.

She wouldn't dare!



Love it! Was that just for the lysol?



Do you do this at check in our did you request that earlier?



What did you have? I've never been.

:lmao: about the Lysol. You're too funny. I requested the cleaning service at check-in. We ate fish sticks and nuggets. But they have really good clam chowder there...you have to try it.

[jasperess]

Figured I would stop lurking and post for once :) Just want to say I really enjoyed your last trip report, especially since we're around the same age and I'm taking my boyfriend to Disney for his first time this May. I hope he likes it as much as Joe... If you have any suggestions for me that you think will help him enjoy it, I would really appreciate it!

Anyway, good trip report so far - can't wait for the next segment. :)

[Nemo32]

Figured I would stop lurking and post for once :) Just want to say I really enjoyed your last trip report, especially since we're around the same age and I'm taking my boyfriend to Disney for his first time this May. I hope he likes it as much as Joe... If you have any suggestions for me that you think will help him enjoy it, I would really appreciate it!

Anyway, good trip report so far - can't wait for the next segment. :)

Thanks for reading! Taking someone for the first time is SO exciting, esp. since you'll get to see everything new through their eyes. Just take notes and I'll try to give you good ideas in my installments. If you read the last TR, there's also a lot of neat, often overlooked things we did...esp. in MK.

[Nemo32]

In case you were curious...here are the pictures of cranes, Christmas remnants and the dearly missed "Year of a Million Dreams."

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture153-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture093.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture160.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture240-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture203-1.jpg

This is the first time I've seen Disney not maintain the perfection it has in the past. Not taking away from Disney, just simply being that usually Disney has a way of placing us in a continually perfect world where there are no flaws - including the transitions that take place during the holidays or switching promos. I just always hear miracle stories, whether true or not, about how Disney re-touches paint on things overnight and re-plants things in the AK safari (a few examples). Luckily the cranes were down for Wishes.

I'll have an update tomorrow...currently I'm getting back into the swing of classes.

[Diamondintheruff]

So you're suggesting Disney has some cracks in it's foundation? Say it's not so.:guilty:

[Nemo32]

So you're suggesting Disney has some cracks in it's foundation? Say it's not so.:guilty:

Not necessarily...just maybe they're a little lax around this time of year (perhaps because its slow?) or not so concerned with upholding their reputation. For example, we ran into a couple of rude CMs as well, which I'll get into later.

It by no means taints my image of WDW or would prevent me from going again in Jan.

[iluv2go2disney]

Can't wait to hear all about your trip. We were there right after you. The weather in January was great, a little cool at night, but nothing like what we left at home.

[k_reile]

I'm glad you converted you BF into a disney lover. I can't wait to go back..just sad I have to wait til probably Jan 2011 but I guess I can't complain since my parents are paying.

[Nemo32]

Can't wait to hear all about your trip. We were there right after you. The weather in January was great, a little cool at night, but nothing like what we left at home.

Yeah, it was 60s when we were there, yet below 20s up here in NY...so I couldn't complain. Thanks for reading!

I'm glad you converted you BF into a disney lover. I can't wait to go back..just sad I have to wait til probably Jan 2011 but I guess I can't complain since my parents are paying.

I'll probably have to wait until 2011 or 2012 also. It's very sad. I miss it already and it hasn't been very long since we got back.

[jjohnson]

We'll one of use HAS to go in 2010 so I can get my pin;)

[Nemo32]

We'll one of use HAS to go in 2010 so I can get my pin;)

That's incentive. :)

[Nemo32]

So, today was our DHS day. We woke at 7:15am and arrived at the park by 8:15am. While waiting in the nearly non-existent line at the turnstiles we had the pleasure of watching some Marathon runners go by.

When the park did open we were directed to the left to avoid the designated lanes for the Marathon runners. We had to wait for the go ahead to cross over to the right. To my surprise, as we power walked down Sunset Blvd. I realized there was no one else walking with us. In all of my trips at WDW, this was a first. Instead everyone else was power walking to TSM. *Note - there was no opening ceremony. Most likely due to the Marathon runners.

So, we were the first on RnR and picked up some FPs also.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture092-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture089.jpg

This is us on RnR.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture056-1.jpg

We then headed over to ToT and the CMs must've been having some fun because the Stand-by wait was 13 minutes. We walked right on.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture094-1.jpg

We're in the front, lower left.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture095-1.jpg

After this we waited for our FP window to open (only 10 minutes) and got a FP for ToT. We didn't use either FPs because I knew they'd honor them all day. So, we headed over to TSM and I was hoping that going against every WDW guidebook to hit this one first wouldn't hurt us right now.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture058.jpg

But luckily, the wait was only 30 minutes! Nothing compared to what I hear it has been. And the queue line is worth the wait.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture059.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture061.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture060.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture064-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture065.jpg

We got through the line in 20 minutes and it was SO MUCH FUN. Joe and I were laughing the whole time. It's a very interactive attraction and Buzz Light Year doesn't compare.

So, we got a FP.

After this we walked through One Man's Dream...which requires a lot of time, but was really neat. So, if ever given the time - do it!

We then went on the GMR, which is always fun and I forgot to get a picture of the Chinese Theater. We then went to the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular and got a decent seat for getting there 10 minutes before show time. I tried to get Joe to volunteer but he was too shy. Nonetheless, he thoroughly enjoyed it.

We then returned to RnR and ToT for our FPs. After this we decided not to go back to TSM since it was late and gave them away to a mom and her daughter.

We had a 2:00pm reservation at Chefs de France, so we caught a bus to Epcot. We arrived there around 1:00pm.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture101.jpg

We explored the UK and Canada.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture102.jpg

And we arrived in France.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture108.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture109-1.jpg

We were still early so we sat outside of Chefs and were able to see the two guys that come out with the chairs, I forget their name.

At 1:45pm we checked in for our reservation and sat down on the benches outside of Chefs. And up until this moment my fears of getting sick were slightly going away, but then the possibility reared its head. Beneath the bench across from us was a lovely and quite gratuitous amount of vomit. I shot up and said, "Joe, we're moving far away right now." It took the CMs there a good 15 minutes to clean it up and then we were called in for our reservation.

Once inside, I calmed and we ate a lovely meal of French onion soup, beef tenderloin and chocolate mousse cake. After our meal I went to the bathroom to wash up. There it was again. :faint: I overheard a woman say the world virus and I asked her about it. She told me how it was spreading around POR and that her family was "a little sick," but she didn't think they had it. WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN THE PARK SICK SPREADING YOUR GERMS?! Anyway, I jetted on out of there and tried to put it out of my head.

Up next...a spontaneous adventure to DTD...

[Diamondintheruff]

Did your bench view affect your ability to enjoy your meal?

15 minutes to clean it up. I'd say that's another crack.

It's probably not the people who profess they are a bit ill but the silent ones that are deadlier. They'd be too ill to make small talk.

[Nemo32]

Did your bench view affect your ability to enjoy your meal?

15 minutes to clean it up. I'd say that's another crack.

It's probably not the people who profess they are a bit ill but the silent ones that are deadlier. They'd be too ill to make small talk.

We enjoyed our meal to the full extent. I feel as though your last comment was a proverb, lol.

[Diamondintheruff]

Yoo Hoo!

Nemo-where are you?:wave2:

Don't tell me you got sick again?

Tomorrow will be a week since you're last installement and since you are usually the first one to remind me I'm taking so long I thought I would return the favor. :flower3:

[Nemo32]

EEEKKK...it has been a week! And you yourself has had 3 installments. I PROMISE I'll catch up and post tomorrow!

I've been super busy. :angel:

[Diamondintheruff]

EEEKKK...it has been a week! And you yourself has had 3 installments. I PROMISE I'll catch up and post tomorrow!

I've been super busy. :angel:

Where as I have been procratinating real life.:lmao:

Oh well, Duty calls. Must leave the computer and interact with live people.:upsidedow

[jjohnson]

It looks like Disney waited until you left you redecorate:;)

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2044659&page=13

[Nemo32]

It looks like Disney waited until you left you redecorate:;)

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2044659&page=13

:rolleyes:

I got to see the napkins and T-shirts, oh well.

I promise an update late tonight!

[Nemo32]

Sorry for the long delay.

We woke up from a very long nap to board the bus to DTD around 8:00pm. We arrived by 8:15ish. I hadn't planned to make a trip to DTD, since I opted for our 1st night to be spent at MK. So, it was very exciting to get a chance to go, esp. since Joe had never been.

On the topic of a lot of extra time - it was a trend throughout the trip that we found we had more time than we thought we would. There was free time everywhere! Which is the most amazing thing at WDW - we actually "strolled" through the parks!

Anyway...so we arrived at DTD.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture120-1.jpg

I really only wanted to visit the Marketplace, but as the night went on, we ended making it all the way through DTD.

Our first priority was dinner and I had heard so many good things about Earl of Sandwich, so I though why not. BIG MISTAKE. We got some ranch, chicken thing and it was drenched in dressing and mayo and we couldn't make it through the whole thing. Oh well.

So, we shopped around DTD, including stopping in Goofy's Candy Co. and the World of Disney.

Some photos:

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture122.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture125.jpg

And of course, my fav. part of DTD - the Lego Store. I was really excited to show Joe the oversized Legos. He was truly amazed.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture130-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture131.jpg

After this, we ventured to the West Side and what was Pleasure Island. It was weird seeing all the doors to the clubs closed down and we heard lots of people talking about it.

We stopped in the Magic Store and watched a few tricks. We have a friend who is a magician who performed in Vegas. Joe was amazed and said he felt slighyly out of WDW when he saw the movie store and Virgin Record Store - but that didn't stop him from going in. Whenever we pass a music store, Joe feels the need to go in and check up on their Beach Boys collection - just in case he's missing something from his anthology. :rolleyes:

Anywho, after our DTD adventures we boarded a bus back to POP and got back around 11:30pm.

Another WDW day down. But at the time, it did seem like we had a lifetime left...oh, how the days at Disney fly.

Next up...MK! and the crane...

[Diamondintheruff]

Sorry you didn't enjoy Earls. It's hard when you hear great things about a place on the dis and then get disapointed.

Maybe you had more time as you were more relaxed this trip. Last time you wanted your DBF to see and experience everything (you know to covert him over to the dark side aka us Disney lovers) and this time you were preaching to the converted?

[Nemo32]

Sorry you didn't enjoy Earls. It's hard when you hear great things about a place on the dis and then get disapointed.

Maybe you had more time as you were more relaxed this trip. Last time you wanted your DBF to see and experience everything (you know to covert him over to the dark side aka us Disney lovers) and this time you were preaching to the converted?

Yeah, we did quite a bit, including everything we did last time, but this time there was no hurry to get it done. The whole time Joe thought that since he had been once he knew EVERYTHING. He kept trying to tell me what to do and where to go next. I kept saying, "Leave it to the expert." He always feels the need to get everything done and then some, whereas I took a more laid back approach - something I've always wanted to do in WDW.

[Diamondintheruff]

I notice your green light is on which means you are online.

Are you updating or just surfing?

:surfweb:

[Nemo32]

I was surfing...:flower3:

I promise an update later tonight...I've been super busy.

[jelloarms]

Question about the picture of your and your boyfriend's feet. Are your guys's pan'ts wet? Did you stand in a fountain or something? Or is it just the lighting that makes it look that way?

[Nemo32]

I believe it is the lighting - there waas no standing in fountains to be had. ;)





I should probably finish this TR.

[Nemo32]

I really need to update, huh? Well, hopefully some readers have stuck around to hear the rest of my TR. I'm finally done with school and have some extra time to finish up...

So, I left off with our day at MK. In true obsessed planner Dis fashion, we showed up to the park 45 minutes early and were first at the rope. We had conversation with a girl who had just started her College Program at WDW - she didn't seem too happy to be there though.

Some pictures. My favorite park is opening is the one at MK, with AK a close second.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture135.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture136.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture139-1.jpg

When we the rope dropped we didn't feel the need to run down Main St. in an attempt to reach Space Mt. in time - there really weren't many people in the park. So, we walked leisurely.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture163.jpg

We then went on Buzz, which was a first for both of us. It was fun, but doesn't compare to TSM.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture138.jpg

We then rode our favorite kiddie rides - Peter Pan, Snow White, Phillhar and IASW. None had a wait.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture143-1.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture142.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture144.jpg

I love the Cinderella fountain.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture140-2.jpg

We then went to have lunch at Pecos Bill's - which has really good pulled pork.

Afterward, on the way to BTMR we saw a dried up Splash.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture149.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture150-1.jpg

And just so you can see the January crowds...:lovestruc

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture156.jpg

On the way back to Space Mt. for our fastpass we rode POtC also.

As we left the park, we saw the marching band play - which I've never seen. Ah, it's all of those Dis touches that make it so special!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture165.jpg

And we took the arbitrary pictures with Roy and Goofy -

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture167.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n29/kajohnson87/Picture168-2.jpg

We left the park around 1:00 and had done everything we had wanted to that day. The weather had been awesome - around 60s and the crowds were near non-existent. It made for a very enjoyable, leisurely day and for the first time I didn't feel rushed at a park. That's the best way to experience WDW.

Next up...Epcot at night!

[CW4DW]

Glad you are back and finishing up the report. Can't wait for more!