Where did the magic go?? 11 days at WDW Dec 6-16th!

[bellasmommy0]

Well the title could be misleading, we did have lots of magic.. but it seemed to me that it just wasnt the same as the previous trips we had made. All in all it was a wonderful trip, but would I go in December again..probably not! I will start filling you all in, in the next post.

[bellasmommy0]

Well this is my 1st trip report and I didnt keep notes, so bear with me and I will tell you all about the ups and downs of it!! We had some very magical moments and some not so magical moments... But all in all we had a great trip. We had 11 days with 10 day park hoppers, and looking back it was too long. But it was a lesson learned.

We started off our trip leaving the house at 7 am, our flight was at 830 am. We made it to the airport and checked in with no problems. Got onto the plane, and we sat and sat and sat!! We were supposed to have a 45 minute layover in Houston and we ended up not even havign time to go to the restroom!! The problem we had this morning was the rest. at our small airport, didnt have anything the kids would eat for breakfast and we had planned on feeding them there. Well when that didnt work, we figured we would have time to get something in Houston.. Well guess what that was a no go!! So we got to Orlando a little early at 1 pm! We were starving, and we had 2 cranky kids!! So we went straight to the McDonalds and pizza place there to eat!! After we were full and happy again, we were off to the magical express counter..........and the long lines started!! We waited forever, and then go into another line for the bus and waited forever again!! At least that is how it seemed!
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Picture of DD on the Magical Express!
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DD and nephew on magical express
We got to All Star movies at about 330 pm. I sent DH to claim the fridges that I had gotten in a fridge swap while I checked in. We got the Fantasia building, room 5917, we had a connecting room with SIL/BIL so it worked out good. At this point SIL and I took a taxi to the publix. We got what we needed for the week. We had a wonderful cab driver named Sandra..she was from Haiti. She was very friendly and stopped the clock and waited for us while we shopped.
Once we got back our bags were already there! So we got the rooms situated, and then off to DTD.
Well DH was tired so he stayed behind to take a nap, and met us a while later. SIL/BIL/DN and DD/I went our own ways. We looked around the stores, didnt buy much. DD got a light up toy. Took some pictures around DTD. DD thought she had to pose with everything.
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DH met us about 730 and we had ADR's for Planet Hollywood at 9 pm, but it was drizzling and we were hungry. So we got over there about 8 pm and they got us right in. And I must say the food was Delicious!! It was very loud, but I expected that so it was OK. We enjoyed looking around at all of the memorabilia, and listening to the music. Sorry I couldnt take food pics, DH thought I was crazy with pics anyway! But DH had a steak, I had ribs, and DD had cheese pizza and it was all good. I had a drink called the "Gorillas in the mist", it was Delicious!!
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See how much DD liked Planet Hollywood.
When we were done here we caught the bus and went back to clean up and rest for the next day!

[bellasmommy0]

Sorry I didnt resize those pics...and I thought I had fixed the one picture to be right side up! I will do better in the next post!

[kaysmommie]

looking foward to hearing all about your trip! Your kids are adorable. We had the same kind of trip this year with many ups and downs. I thought we were finished with Disney for a year or two but 3 weeks later I already missed it, LOL.

Sorry about your plane ride with starving kids, not fun at all.

[bellasmommy0]

looking foward to hearing all about your trip! We had the same kind of trip this year with many ups and downs. I thought we were finished with Disney for a year or two but 3 weeks later I already missed it, LOL.

Sorry about your plane ride with starving kids, not fun at all.

Before the trip DH was already saying "no more Disney for a few years" After this trip he is adament about not going again for at least 3 -4 years!! At this point I agree with him

[chascath]

Just got back yesterday (12-19) and will not be going back at least for several years if ever again. This year was s major bust. Mickey's party on the night of 12-16 was a total fiasco, bedlam, confusion, rudeness, gridlock, total waste of time and money. I really felt sorry for the folks in wheelchairs. They were going nowhere. Looked like one lady was on the verge of tears. Even the hardcore Disney go'ers and party veterans I talked to on the bus back to our hotel and the next day had the same comments.

Hollywood studios on thursday was the most crowded I have seen it during this time of year. Hit the major shows which were outstanding (Beauty and the Beast, Motor Stunt show), a couple of rides and got the heck out. Epcot on 12-15 was OK but except for the Norway pavilion we did not see the usual storytellers or other entertainment we usually see in front of all the pavilions.

The food of course became more expensive but the quality definitely went down. Even the reliable bar-b-que sandwich at Pecos Bill was a major miss. Tasted like sugared beef and smaller portion.

Wife commented that we were so flustered this visit that we did not spend any time enjoying the christmas decorations or the landscaping like we usually do. It was hurry up, go-go-go before fastpasses ran out or the lines reach the 45-60 minute wait times.

I'm already looking at alternatives for next year.....

[bellasmommy0]

Just got back yesterday (12-19) and will not be going back at least for several years if ever again. This year was s major bust. Mickey's party on the night of 12-16 was a total fiasco, bedlam, confusion, rudeness, gridlock, total waste of time and money. I really felt sorry for the folks in wheelchairs. They were going nowhere. Looked like one lady was on the verge of tears. Even the hardcore Disney go'ers and party veterans I talked to on the bus back to our hotel and the next day had the same comments.

Hollywood studios on thursday was the most crowded I have seen it during this time of year. Hit the major shows which were outstanding (Beauty and the Beast, Motor Stunt show), a couple of rides and got the heck out. Epcot on 12-15 was OK but except for the Norway pavilion we did not see the usual storytellers or other entertainment we usually see in front of all the pavilions.

The food of course became more expensive but the quality definitely went down. Even the reliable bar-b-que sandwich at Pecos Bill was a major miss. Tasted like sugared beef and smaller portion.

Wife commented that we were so flustered this visit that we did not spend any time enjoying the christmas decorations or the landscaping like we usually do. It was hurry up, go-go-go before fastpasses ran out or the lines reach the 45-60 minute wait times.

I'm already looking at alternatives for next year.....

I completely understand. We attended the 12/9 Xmas party and feel like it was a complete waste of a large amount of money!! If and when we return to WDW, I will never waste extra money on one of their partys as both times I have went to one, it was a complete waste of time and money!!:confused:

[DearDaisyinDurham]

:thumbsup2 Can't wait to read more about your trip....

BTW my guy said the same about the parties, we've done both the halloween and Christmas, and we liked both but won't do them again. Disney though, yes, we booked bounceback!:rotfl:

[bellasmommy0]

Well I had wanted to get an early start, but after traveling the day before it didnt happen. It was about 10 am when we left the hotel. We were off to MK today.
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(Notice the cute pillow case dress that MIL made for her, everybody loved it!)

We got a bus pretty quickly.
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We got to MK and saw Daisy Duck, who we had missed on previous trips, so we got in line to meet her.
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Our 1st site of the castle
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As we approached the castle, the show was going on, so we stopped to watch that after much insistence from my DD!!
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And then off to DD favorite ride, the teacups!!
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We must have rode these 15 times or more over this trip!
This is our elve Max who is living with us until Xmas eve..she insisted he come to the park with us at least one day!
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As were trying to not stand in long lines..as we had plenty of days left, we skipped alot of rides this day. After teacups we were off to Small World. And then we were off to the Jungle Cruise, which was a walk on at this time. And then Pirates of the Carribean, which also had a small line! ( If only they had all stayed this way all week!!). After this we found a spot for the parade in Frontierland, we got a great spot right at the start of the parade.
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(This was about the time that the camera died.. so no more pics. There were a few from Chef Mickeys but they didnt turn out great, so I wont post them!)
By the time this was over it was time to start heading to our ADR at Chef Mickeys! And as always it was wonderful!! Our ADR was at 430, so we were some of the 1st in and the food was fresh and delicious. DD and nephew were excited to meet Mickey and the gang!! We decided after dinner to head back to the hotel to get warmer jackets as it was getting quite cold, and head to Hollywood Studios for EMH. We didnt plan to do much that night, but just wanted mostly to see the Osborne lights. But we also did Muppets 3D, and The Little Mermaid show. We also dropped into the Playhouse disney dance party, but DD and DN were too tired to care about dancing. When we got to the lights we were in AWE!! That is worth the entire trip even the unmagical moments!! And it wasnt crowded this night so DD and DN were able to get out of their strollers and try and catch snow and play around. It was absolutely MAGICAL!! Unfortunately, I had not planned well, and didnt have my camera fully charged..so no pics from that night! We headed back pretty early since we still had alot of days and didnt want to wear ourselves out early in the trip!!

[siestakey]

I agree, and I am an Annual Pass Holder! Disney Magic is GONE, and my cup was always full, all my clouds had silver linings, and it is now a foggy day at Disney. Cedar Point treated their guests better! My DH said NO RENEWAL THIS YEAR! and my glass is now 1/2 full, should I go for it?? Sadly, I think I have to agree............Where has all the magic gone??????

[KATIESMOMMY]

Bella- am trying to pm you but your box is full!!

[jollyg]

We just returned from our first ever trip to WDW (12-6 through 12-14).

We were all so excited about going because we had planned and saved for over two years to make it happen.......what a major disappointment! :sad2:

We have 4 kids ranging in age from 13 to 2 and by the 3rd day my 8 years old was crying because she wanted to go home.

We are an easy going easy to please kind of family, but I'd never met so many rude and discourteous park employees in my life.

Our entire trip we only had one employee who ever gave us the time of day and she was working in one of those DVC booths.

Most of the time we felt like cattle being herded to the next watering hole, so that we could stand in line for hours again.

I made a reservation for our family to have lunch at Ciderelle's Royal Table on the day of our arrival to WDW. We arrived only to find out that they didn't have our reservation, but they charged my credit card for it when I made the reservation back in July! :mad:

Over all our experience was that WDW is way to big and way to crowed.

The "Disney Magic" we thought we would get turned out to be rudeness, disorganization and frustration! :sad2:

We paid around $1500 for our 7 day hopper tickets for our family of 6 and felt it was a waist of money.

The few things we did get to do at WDW was enjoyable, but we'll never invest the time and money to do it again to be treated like that.

[bellasmommy0]

We just returned from our first ever trip to WDW (12-6 through 12-14).

We were all so excited about going because we had planned and saved for over two years to make it happen.......what a major disappointment! :sad2:

We have 4 kids ranging in age from 13 to 2 and by the 3rd day my 8 years old was crying because she wanted to go home.

We are an easy going easy to please kind of family, but I'd never met so many rude and discourteous park employees in my life.

Our entire trip we only had one employee who ever gave us the time of day and she was working in one of those DVC booths.

Most of the time we felt like cattle being herded to the next watering hole, so that we could stand in line for hours again.

I made a reservation for our family to have lunch at Ciderelle's Royal Table on the day of our arrival to WDW. We arrived only to find out that they didn't have our reservation, but they charged my credit card for it when I made the reservation back in July! :mad:

Over all our experience was that WDW is way to big and way to crowed.

The "Disney Magic" we thought we would get turned out to be rudeness, disorganization and frustration! :sad2:

We paid around $1500 for our 7 day hopper tickets for our family of 6 and felt it was a waist of money.

The few things we did get to do at WDW was enjoyable, but we'll never invest the time and money to do it again to be treated like that.


Not that I am glad others also had problems, but when I started writing this I thought that maybe I just had expected too much, but like you I ran into many rude employees and bad planning on Disneys part. I will add more later on!!

[joelp]

Well the title could be misleading, we did have lots of magic.. but it seemed to me that it just wasnt the same as the previous trips we had made. All in all it was a wonderful trip, but would I go in December again..probably not! I will start filling you all in, in the next post.

I've found you!!! :rotfl:

Since we were at WDW the same time ... I have to agree with your general feelings ... But - I also think we may have had toooo high expectations for a really MAGICAL vacation ...

... and the crowds - at least at the MK and during MVMCP :sad2: - were much larger than I expected ...

Plus - going in December made dealing with the Holidays all that more stressful ...

But the weather was just about perfect ... and how about those Christmas decorations!?! :thumbsup2

OK - time for me to read on ...

Have a great 2009 ... !!

P.S. working on my TR - but I may wait until the Photopass CD arrives ...

[joelp]

I completely understand. We attended the 12/9 Xmas party and feel like it was a complete waste of a large amount of money!! If and when we return to WDW, I will never waste extra money on one of their partys as both times I have went to one, it was a complete waste of time and money!!:confused:

I agree - the Dec 9 MVMCP was WAAAAYYYY more crowded than I expected!! :scared1: Wall-to-wall people ... long lines for almost all the rides :sad2:

And it was sooo bad we couldn't pull off our planned DIS Meet ...
:sad1:

I'm glad I did it this one time - but I doubt I'd do it (or any other hard ticket party) again ...

We finally caught a breather around 10:30 when we strolled into Tomorrowland - it was practically empty there ... so the DW got to ride Space Mtn. and the DD and I took a leisurely tour on the TTA ... I needed that!!

We saw all the shows but Belle's, but couldn't get a good spot for Holiday Wishes ...

[joelp]

Agghhh - we were so close to each other in the MK on Dec 7!!!

While you were watching the Castle show - we were just around the corner riding Winnie the Pooh and getting our picture taken with McScrooge McDuck ...!!

When you were on the Teacups - we were waiting in line for the Fairies in Toontown ...!!

We were just outside LTT during the parade ...!!

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Bummer - I think it would have been a lot of fun to see our two DDs meet and carouse in the House of Mouse ...

... maybe next time ... :lmao:


And where was Daisy Duck!?! - my DD has been dying to meet her the past two trips!!

[joelp]

Not that I am glad others also had problems, but when I started writing this I thought that maybe I just had expected too much, but like you I ran into many rude employees and bad planning on Disneys part. I will add more later on!!

Fortunately, we didn't have any of that!! All the CMs we encountered were great!!

Got to remember - everyone gets stressed out over the Holidays - and CMs are only human (right? ... despite that magic potion they make them drink every day ... :rotfl:)

[bellasmommy0]

Fortunately, we didn't have any of that!! All the CMs we encountered were great!!

Got to remember - everyone gets stressed out over the Holidays - and CMs are only human (right? ... despite that magic potion they make them drink every day ... :rotfl:)

Oh I do understand that the holidays had alot to do with the stress level, but as I write more and you read on you will see what I mean! It would have been great to meet you, but what can you say.. I did meet Lcaemom, I was standing by the gingerbread house at grand floridian waiting until check in time at 1900 Park Fare, and I heard are you bellasmommy....it took me a minute to click..:lmao: And then she told me who she was, so it was nice to put a face to the name. On our 1st night there, on the way back from DTD, we met a young lady who was there on the college program and her family was visiting, we asked her where to find Daisy Duck, as my DD was also bugging about her. She was between the restroom and the fire station in MK every day we were there, just out of view unless you were looking. So next time you will know where she is. We never did meet the fairies as the line was always 1 1/2 hours and DD didnt want to wait that long..that is another complaint on my part, that you will hear later on!! Happy New Year!!!

[Silver Queen]

We were at WDW during the same time period but had a very positive experience. We were at MVMCP on Dec. 9 and agree that it was much too crowded. Once we got in we headed right to Tomorrowland where the crowds were lighter. Getting in was tough because it was before 7:00 and there were still a lot of people in the park who didn't have party tickets. After that we just tried to make the best choices that we could to stay away from the most crowded areas and we were satisfied with what we were able to do. Now that we've done it once we would probably not go back to another MVMCP. There are not that many extras to warrant the additional money.
As far as the CMs were concerned we experienced exceptional service. The servers that we had in the restaurants ranged from good to exceptional and we made it a point to let the restaurant managers know when we had a great server (like Linda at Coral Reef and Julie at Chefs de France). We loved our first stay as DVC members at SSR. Once again, we were delighted with the excellent service and positive attitude from the CMs.
I recognize that everyone will have different experiences from time to time so all I'm saying is that we believe that there is still plenty of magic in The World and we're looking forward to returning.

[bellasmommy0]

We were at WDW during the same time period but had a very positive experience. We were at MVMCP on Dec. 9 and agree that it was much too crowded. Once we got in we headed right to Tomorrowland where the crowds were lighter. Getting in was tough because it was before 7:00 and there were still a lot of people in the park who didn't have party tickets. After that we just tried to make the best choices that we could to stay away from the most crowded areas and we were satisfied with what we were able to do. Now that we've done it once we would probably not go back to another MVMCP. There are not that many extras to warrant the additional money.
As far as the CMs were concerned we experienced exceptional service. The servers that we had in the restaurants ranged from good to exceptional and we made it a point to let the restaurant managers know when we had a great server (like Linda at Coral Reef and Julie at Chefs de France). We loved our first stay as DVC members at SSR. Once again, we were delighted with the excellent service and positive attitude from the CMs.
I recognize that everyone will have different experiences from time to time so all I'm saying is that we believe that there is still plenty of magic in The World and we're looking forward to returning.


Like I said in my first post, there was still alot of magic and we had a great time, but compared to previous trips this one was only so-so...:sad2: . MVMCP although was a HUGE disappointment. As for CM we had some excellent ones and some incredibly rude ones. I am working on my next post now!! Happy New Year!!

[bellasmommy0]

Ok coming back to this we are at Monday the 8th of December. This morning was EMH at AK, so while DH slept in a little.. DD and I got up and went to AK. We got there close to 8, and stopped to take some pictures by the tree, DD loved the tree.
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She was happy to be there!! It was a nice morning having Mommy and DD time!
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After we got in we pretty much went straight back to the Safari, and got right on. There were quite a few animals out.
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[bellasmommy0]

Once we got off of this ride we did the Pangani exploration trail. DD enjoyed looking at the gorillas. After this we caught the train up to the conservation station. This was a time consuming thing. DD did the find the backyard creatures thing and liked that.
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They were doing a check up on a little bird, and we watched this.
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DD explored around some. She wanted to take a pic with Jiminy Cricket.
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We headed out to the petting zoo...forgot the proper name
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After this we headed out as we were going to MK this afternoon and wanted to get some lunch and rest a little bit. At the bus station we met back up with SIL/BIL/ and Dnephew who had also been at AK but doing other things. After a short wait we were on the bus. On the bus we met a nice couple who we started talking to, it turned out they were Disers (but I forgot to get their names..), they had been to the MVMCP the night before. They decided that they wanted to give the kids some cool springy Christmas tree hats they had worn. We made arrangements to meet up with them in the cafeteria, as DH was meeting us down there to get something to eat. The kids LOVED the hats. So if you are reading this THANK YOU again!! We originally planned on regifting them to some other children, but DD and DN would have none of that!! DD even wore it once we got home!!

[bellasmommy0]

Coming soon the evening at MK & what we thought of Liberty Tree Tavern

[joelp]

Was the trip to the Conservation Station "worth it"? When reading the guide books, it seems to be one of those attractions that would be fun for the kids, but I haven't heard very many good reviews of it ...

We thought the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail - and the gorillas - were very cool!!

[becca123]

I agree with many posters. Went the first time dec13-21. I was there with three kids 10,8,5 and then my husband joined us 5 days into the trip. We stayed at POR and the Poly. Liked both of them. Let me first say, that it was fun and a very nice trip/ No major complaints at all. But you have better come prepared!
Crowds were fine AS LONG AS YOU GOT ANY EARLY START. We opened the park every day, and that was the most enjoyable time. No bumping into ecv's (or more accurately- being run over) , low lines, managable walking (unless you were watching fireworks or parades...yikes!)...My plan at the parks was to get an early start and try to see the biggies first. Traveling alone with three kids worked better than I thought with this plan.
I understand the parks were not as busy as xmas time, but busier than I expected the week I was there. Anyway, as much as the parks seemed crowed many rides did not reflect how busy the park felt. Parks were clean and felt safe.;)

CM's were helpful and nice, but I expect them to be. We travel a fair amount and Disney did meet my expectaions, but there are so many other wonderful places to visit! It seems to me, here in America, that if any customer service person goes even a little out of their way we are amazed. Give Disney credit that their service is generally better than most here in the states, and that creates customer loyalty. If Disney loses that- well then.....
Will we go back...?? Maybe, depends on so many factors. I do not feel I will be one of those people needing "magic" regulary from Disney but they did deliver the vacation I expected. I just truly CANT imagine going when it is crowded....
Thanks for hearing me out. And thanks to the boards for making our trip more managable than it would have been!
R/

[bellasmommy0]

Was the trip to the Conservation Station "worth it"? When reading the guide books, it seems to be one of those attractions that would be fun for the kids, but I haven't heard very many good reviews of it ...

We thought the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail - and the gorillas - were very cool!!

Was it worth it...that is hard to say. For us and what our goals were that day yes. Would I do it again,probably not. It was very time consuming, and luckily this was just to be a lazy mommy and daughter morning to just hang out together, we had another full day to do AK. DD really seemed to enjoy it, it wasnt nearly as crowded as other areas so she was able to run around some and let off some steam, without me worrying about her getting lost in the crowd. But when we do go back again,she will be older and we probably wouldnt do it, as it did burn up alot of time. She loved the gorillas on the Pangani exp. trail.

[bellasmommy0]

I agree with many posters. Went the first time dec13-21. I was there with three kids 10,8,5 and then my husband joined us 5 days into the trip. We stayed at POR and the Poly. Liked both of them. Let me first say, that it was fun and a very nice trip/ No major complaints at all. But you have better come prepared!
Crowds were fine AS LONG AS YOU GOT ANY EARLY START. We opened the park every day, and that was the most enjoyable time. No bumping into ecv's (or more accurately- being run over) , low lines, managable walking (unless you were watching fireworks or parades...yikes!)...My plan at the parks was to get an early start and try to see the biggies first. Traveling alone with three kids worked better than I thought with this plan.
I understand the parks were not as busy as xmas time, but busier than I expected the week I was there. Anyway, as much as the parks seemed crowed many rides did not reflect how busy the park felt. Parks were clean and felt safe.;)

CM's were helpful and nice, but I expect them to be. We travel a fair amount and Disney did meet my expectaions, but there are so many other wonderful places to visit! It seems to me, here in America, that if any customer service person goes even a little out of their way we are amazed. Give Disney credit that their service is generally better than most here in the states, and that creates customer loyalty. If Disney loses that- well then.....
Will we go back...?? Maybe, depends on so many factors. I do not feel I will be one of those people needing "magic" regulary from Disney but they did deliver the vacation I expected. I just truly CANT imagine going when it is crowded....
Thanks for hearing me out. And thanks to the boards for making our trip more managable than it would have been!
R/

Thanks for joining me!! I understand what you are saying, and dont think that I am saying there was no magic. We had a marvelous time despite the lows...just compared to our 2 previous trips (2005 & 2007) the service level had decreased and the crowds were high in comparison. Was it the time of year, probably. Did I run into a few sour apples for CM, I am sure. We met a lot of incredible CM who were wonderful. But to me on my previous trips I left with this feeling like I could never get enough, and I had to go back because it was so magical to see and do everything. This time I left wanting to leave, and knowing it would be a long while before I felt the need to go back! If I had had no comparison from previous trips I may have felt differently. I still LOVE Disney!! I am just Disneyed out for a while!! And I want to go and see some more of the wonderful things this country/world has to offer!!

[bellasmommy0]

After getting some rest. We left the hotel again at about 215 or so. We got a bus pretty quickly, and were off to the MK.
We got there just as the 3 o'clock parade was coming around the circle, so we stopped to watch it again.
After this we went to fantasyland. We were able to get in a few rides before it was time to go to our dinner ADR.
We rode the carousel
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08207.jpg
And then Snow Whites not so scary adventure
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08216.jpg
And then were going to ride winnie the pooh, but there was quite a line and we didnt have much time so we got FP, and suprise we got a suprise FP to Mickeys Philharmagic.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08888.jpg
We had just enough time to do this before dinner
We had dinner ADR's at LTT.
We got there and checked in, after a short wait they took us to our table.
[IMG]http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08891.jpg[/IMGhttp://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08894.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08900.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08904.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08911.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08916.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08921.jpg
As for this meal the character interaction was good, the service was good. The food was what I expected, good not great. DH didnt like it, he said everything tasted sweet. But the dessert was DELICIOUS!!! All in all this meal was good, my only complaint was they sat us at this tiny table that was in no way meant for 3 people! Our server was good, when we asked him about getting something different for DD he came back with chicken nuggets and french fries. It was well worth the time and the DDP credits

[bellasmommy0]

I dont know why the pictures came out sideways, I thought I changed them...oh well!!

[becca123]

Thanks for joining me!! I understand what you are saying, and dont think that I am saying there was no magic. We had a marvelous time despite the lows...just compared to our 2 previous trips (2005 & 2007) the service level had decreased and the crowds were high in comparison. Was it the time of year, probably. Did I run into a few sour apples for CM, I am sure. We met a lot of incredible CM who were wonderful. But to me on my previous trips I left with this feeling like I could never get enough, and I had to go back because it was so magical to see and do everything. This time I left wanting to leave, and knowing it would be a long while before I felt the need to go back! If I had had no comparison from previous trips I may have felt differently. I still LOVE Disney!! I am just Disneyed out for a while!! And I want to go and see some more of the wonderful things this country/world has to offer!!

Hi Bellasmommy-
I didn't mean to suggest your trip wasn't great. I think the major difference is the difference between "loving" Disney and being "in Love" with Disney. With the latter, you never let yourself see the bad stuff. Our trip was great, and I guess you could say I loved going to Disney. I would not go as far to say it was the best trip I have ever taken. Disney does what it does well, but I feel many people (not you per se) are so in love with Disney, that when they have a bad experience they say Disney has lost the Magic. I guess I was trying to point out that one can still Love Disney but not be "in Love" with Disney. I was responding more to the thread title. My trip, as yours, was full of many special moments.
I hope you get out and see more of the country/world! Have some great trips!
Best-
R/

[bellasmommy0]

Hi Bellasmommy-
I didn't mean to suggest your trip wasn't great. I think the major difference is the difference between "loving" Disney and being "in Love" with Disney. With the latter, you never let yourself see the bad stuff. Our trip was great, and I guess you could say I loved going to Disney. I would not go as far to say it was the best trip I have ever taken. Disney does what it does well, but I feel many people (not you per se) are so in love with Disney, that when they have a bad experience they say Disney has lost the Magic. I guess I was trying to point out that one can still Love Disney but not be "in Love" with Disney. I was responding more to the thread title. My trip, as yours, was full of many special moments.
I hope you get out and see more of the country/world! Have some great trips!
Best-
R/

I didnt take your comment to mean anything, I just dont want people to get the idea that the trip had no magic...if you keep reading you will hear about many magical moments, but in comparison it wasnt the same. And I understand what you mean, and I am looking forward to planning our next trip to a new and unexplored (by us of course) place!! Although next year we will probably stick pretty close to home!

[bellasmommy0]

I havent deserted this, just busy will post some more this weekend.

[bellasmommy0]

OK, I am going to finish up the day at MK.
After we ate at LTT, we looked in a few shops and then headed over to find a spot to watch the castle lighting. It was gorgeous!! We didnt get too close, which was fine. We watched it from the tommorowland terrace patio.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08234.jpg

After the show we headed to tommorowland.
We rode Astro orbiter
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08941.jpg
Buzz lightyear
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08954.jpg
Carousel of Progress
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08957.jpg
Blue line
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08962.jpg
And then the rest of the group..not DD or I!! No way!! rode Stitch!
And then off to the speedway
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08969.jpg
And then the teacups
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08971.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08976.jpg
After that we did Pooh and Snow white, again!
This was a very nice night, not too long of lines and cool but nice! One of out best nights of all!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08986.jpg

[bellasmommy0]

Up next our most magical moment of all!!

[bellasmommy0]

Heres a nice one from photopasss that night
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/image279.jpg

[tmkinney]

Subscribing.... Your kids are so cute, I just love your DD's outfits. The photopass pic in front of the castle is great. :goodvibes

[NYPDwife]

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/Disney%202008/disneytrip12-08688.jpg

What a ham! I love the model pose!!

[jennykay]

subbing!

[bellasmommy0]

Subscribing.... Your kids are so cute, I just love your DD's outfits. The photopass pic in front of the castle is great. :goodvibes

Thansk, it is my DD and my nephew.

[bellasmommy0]

What a ham! I love the model pose!!

She does these crazy poses everywhere we go!! She thinks she is a supermodel!!:rotfl2:

[bellasmommy0]

subbing!

Welcome!!

[NYPDwife]

They were doing a check up on a little bird, and we watched this.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08870.jpg

:lmao: :lmao:
I have (almost) the same picture!! That poor duck must be woozy from all the anesthesia they put him under!!:lmao:

I've been reading a bit more and we were there for Christmas week and while it was crowded, I had to pull myself away from the negativity I felt towards rude guests and remind myself that I was here to have a great time. I always keep in mind that Disney is not a vacation. A vacation is sitting on the beach with a drink in one hand and a gossip magazine in the other!:woohoo:

[bellasmommy0]

:lmao: :lmao:
I have (almost) the same picture!! That poor duck must be woozy from all the anesthesia they put him under!!:lmao:

I've been reading a bit more and we were there for Christmas week and while it was crowded, I had to pull myself away from the negativity I felt towards rude guests and remind myself that I was here to have a great time. I always keep in mind that Disney is not a vacation. A vacation is sitting on the beach with a drink in one hand and a gossip magazine in the other!:woohoo:

When I looked at yours I thought the same thing...I hope it's a different duck!! poor thing!
I understand what you are saying, and that is what I tried to do and we had a great time but when I started writing this, that was what I could think of. Our past trips were amazing!! This one was great but not amazing!

[bellasmommy0]

On Tuesday the 9th we got a late start, this was the plan as we were going to MVMCP this evening. I cant really remember what time we left the hotel but it was around noon.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08252.jpg
We caught a bus to MK with no problem. Once we were there we went straight to DD's fave ride...the TEACUPS!!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08260.jpg
We must have rode them about 30 times on this trip! After that we headed into toontown. DD wanted to get her face painted, she wanted the "wishes" and I wanted her to get something christmasy to match her dress for the party. Well we got a wonderful artist named Lisa. She was WONDERFUL!! After some discussion she did a christmas colored wishes! It was 1 of a kind! DD LOVED it, so did Lisa she took a picture to put in their files of what they can do. DD kept wanting to go back and see if she was on a paint bucket yet!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08265.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08269.jpg
After that we checked out Minnies house, Mickeys house and the store right there. We looked at the line for Tink and said no way!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081002.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-08271.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081016.jpg
If I remember right we rode a few rides before it was time to head to our ADR at 1900 Park Fare.

[joelp]

What time were you at 1900 Park Fare - cuz we were probably there at the same time ... and I'm gonna check my videos ...

... and if I see you ...:rotfl:

[bellasmommy0]

We talked about this pre-trip! Remember silly! Well our ADR was at 430, I think we were there at the same time, but I didnt see you

[joelp]

We talked about this pre-trip! Remember silly! Well our ADR was at 430, I think we were there at the same time, but I didnt see you

Yea - but that was like - "so last year" ... :lmao:

Anyway - took a look at the video last night ... no sign of you ... but I'm gonna double-check ... Do you remember where you were sitting?

[bellasmommy0]

just wait for my next installment and you will see, some major magic is coming up!!

[DWFan4Life]

All of your pics are amazing. Great review. Looking forward to that major magic coming up. :)

Have a nice day. :)

[bellasmommy0]

I will try to update the next post later today...I woke up feeling bad, so I am just resting right now! Have a great weekend to you all

[bellasmommy0]

OK lets try this through my cold-medicine induced haze!!
As we left off we were heading to our ADR at 1900 Park Fare.
We caught the monorail and were on our way. When we walked in we were amazed at the beauty of this hotel. It is absolutely gorgeous!! My DD wanted to take pics everywhere. I am only posting a few.http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081040.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081046.jpg
As we were checking out the gingerbread house, I heard someone say "are you Bellas mommy" I was like yes, but it took me a minute to figure out what was going on. Even though I knew I might run into some of you from here, it took a minute to process it. I met LCAEmom, and her youngest DD. We only talked for a quick minute, and forgot to get a pic!!:sad1:
But bak to the gingerbread house, that is amazing!! We didnt buy anything because we were about to eat dinner, but it all smelled so delicious!
Our ADR was at 430, I didnt realize that they didnt open until 430 so we were there ready to check in at 400. We looked around some and waited for them to open. As soon as they were at the counter we checked in and found a seat! Shortly after that, the manager approached us and was talking to DD. He asked her if she knew what the magic words were... of course they are BIPPIDI BOPPIDI BOO!! So he asked her if she would help him open the restaurant and she would get a special suprise when she did. She was all for it....until more people started showing up. Then she got shy, but I reminded her that he was depending on her. So as they were about to open he called her up and introduced her as Princess Isabella of Texas. He then informed everyone that we were the royal family of the day, and we would be the first seated and the first to meet every character!!:thumbsup2 So on cue DD told everyone the magic words.. BIPPIDI BOPPIDI BOO!! And the doors opened to Cinderella and Prince Charming, who took her by the hand and led her to her seat. They talked to her for a minute and then went back to the back again!! DD at this point was very overwhelmed by it all, and didnt want to talk about it to anyone else, but it was so cute!! When they were walking her, she kept looking up at them like what is going on!!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081077.jpg
BIPPIDI BOPPIDI BOO!!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081079.jpg
Hello Princess
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081082.jpg
Here is your royal throne!!
The meal was good, and it was nice to meet the characters quickly and not have to wait!!
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081089.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081095.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081100.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081105.jpg
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff136/bellasmommy0/disneytrip12-081109.jpg
She got a kick out of the stepsisters! They were hilarious. All in all this was a wonderful meal and a magical memory..as for MVMCP which is coming up I cant say the same!!

[joelp]

Very nice!!!

Your DD looks a little like my DD did the first time she met Cinderella - she was so awestruck she didn't want anything to do with her!! :rotfl:

(Now I can laugh about it, at the time ... :sad2: )

But - after a while - she warmed up ...

It looks like you were all the way on the other side of the room from us ... as you'll see (whenever I get around to it ...) , we were tucked into a smaller side room ...

Hope you're feeling better - our DD had a head cold last week ...

Time to take the DP for a run - in the snow!! :cheer2:

[woodleygrrl]

very cool. your kid is adorable

[bellasmommy0]

She had met her a few times before, but the fact that there were at least 50-60 eyes on here was overwhelming to her. But the pics and video turned out so cute!! And now she talks about it like it was so cool!!

[OhMari]

Bump to the front to finish.

[KATIESMOMMY]

Thought maybe your photopass share group could get an answer here, we are all still waiting on our disks, you told us they were mailed a over a week ago, no one has gotten them, please send us our pictures please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[joelp]

Thought maybe your photopass share group could get an answer here, we are all still waiting on our disks, you told us they were mailed a over a week ago, no one has gotten them, please send us our pictures please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In other words, you're asking: "Where did the magic go?" :lmao:

[chrisw127]

We were there at around the same time. It was really crowded this year. I think it might have been the combination of free dining, Mousefest, and the end of Pop Warner that made the parks so crowded. We go often in early December and I've never seeen it anywhere near as crowded. Although, we went to MVMCP on 12/14 and it was not crowded at all. I think that party is really hit or miss as far as crowds go.

Overall, we had great customer service and meals but the lines weren't fun. Also, my twins were 22 months old at the time and decided not to sleep so our trip was most . . . unmagical.

But we're going again next year.

Thanks for posting an alternative trip report. You always hear these glowing reports and it can be misleading. Now every trip is great!

[khertz]

I just caught up on your TR. Your daughter is absolutely beautiful! I love her Christmas-y outfit and matching face paint, too cute! Hope you update some more soon. :) We are going in December this year, so I'm looking forward to the "real deal" behind Disney in December!

[heaven2dc]

I just found your TR and your daughter looks so adorable with her face painted! What a precious picture of her with Prince Charming :love:

I arrived on 12/13/08 and the weather was so chilly! But it finally warmed up by Monday. I can't wait to read more about your trip (hope everything is ok and that we'll get to see more pics!).