Biscuit's Grand Adventure | An epic tale three decades in the making! [Archive] - Page 2 - The DIS Discussion Forums

GreatBiscuit

03-26-2009, 09:08 PM

First, I’d like to give a quick shout out to my sister Lynnlee who gave birth to her second boy late last night. Welcome to the family Cooper! We may be a little crazy, but you’ll never lack in love or laughter.
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Secondly, a quick note about this episode. It’s a long one. In fact, it turned out twice as long as any other; however, as you will see, the story could not really be broken up without losing something. I had hoped to add a circa-1997 couple’s photo, but due to the baby drama yesterday and a bout with some sort of stomach bug the past two days, I have not had a chance to go scan any. SO….I guess I just MAY have to just do a separate photo post tomorrow to make up for it. Now, on with the show!
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Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, weather got nasty, rental cars were denied and a ray of sunshine came our way. Before we left for our trip, I had gotten some basic information on our destination resort. It was a brand new addition to the time share listings, was listed as a three star resort with a large pool, near Disney Property, with a daily shuttle to the parks.

In my mind’s eye, I went back to our summer of 1990 trip. I pictured a setup similar to the time share Pete and I had toured on the Fantasy Island trolley. Sleek condos, pristine pool, big dining room, whole nine yards.

I remember us pulling up that night (after an oddly short drive from the airport) and getting a look at the place for the first time. Hey GB, see those shards flying out the window? Those are your shattered illusions my friend. The building itself looked surprisingly similar to a low end motel. In fact on further inspection, one could see a large white blob above the door where the paint was thick enough to stand out from the rest of the building, but not quite thick enough to cover up the original name of the motel which was still showing through. (I THINK it had been a Travelodge)

Hmmm…well….okay…whatever, we’re just sleeping here. A vinyl sign hanging on the inside of the front door confirmed that we were INDEED in the correct spot, and so we bid our new found friends goodbye and thanked them profusely for their assistance.

I then headed to the front desk, and after getting the clerk to peel himself away from the mini-TV he was watching, I managed to get us checked in. There were two things that really stuck out about the lobby. One was it was decidedly lacking in décor. By lacking I mean there were several squares on the wall where it was obvious from the fading paint that there had once been pictures hanging. Yet, for reasons unknown, the pictures were gone and nothing had replaced them. The second thing I noticed was that it smelled of feet. Or stale cheese. It’s hard to tell the two apart sometimes. (Depending on the foot being referenced of course.)

After getting our key, I asked for our park tickets. When the reservation was made, my Aunt LeeAnn had paid for our park tickets and was told they would be waiting for us at the front desk. The desk clerk advised me that I would have to get them from the desk of the time share office in the morning. I inquired as to when it opened and was advised that it opened at 9:00 AM. Okay, no biggie. We can get our tickets and be in the parks by 10:00.

Upon retiring to our room we discovered that it bore resemblance to the lobby in two ways. One, it had a faded square on the wall where a picture of some sort used to be, and two the motel name on the phone had been painted over with a substance bearing a striking resemblance to White-Out. There were also some discolorations of unknown origin on the carpet, but other than that, it was quite cozy. At that point, we were so tired, we didn’t care about the décor. We did however care about the hole in the sheets on the first bed we unmade. Thankfully there was another in the room and it seemed to have all of its linen intact.

The next morning I headed down to the lobby around 8:55, so as to procure our park hoppers. I asked the lady at the front desk where the time share office was and expected her to point down the hallway. Instead she gave me a street map. I looked at it a moment, realized it was beyond walking distance, and advised her that we had no mode of transportation.

She told me that the shuttle would leave for the time share office at 10:00 AM. Hmm…well…okay then. I got back to the room and advised Tracy not to bother hurrying. We eventually returned to the lobby and waited on the shuttle. About 10:10, I checked back with the front desk to see if she had an ETA. She did not. We waited some more and at 10:30, I asked her again about the shuttle. She advised that it would be there as soon as possible. Finally around 11AM, a white 15 passenger van pulled up outside. It had no markings on it, but the driver came in and asked if anyone was going to the time share office.

We immediately jumped up and headed outside. I was all set and ready to go, when the driver asked me for $12. Come again? He then advised me that he did not work for the time share company, he was just a contracted shuttle and that it was $6 per person to get there and back. Okay….well…then…as long as it results in park tickets in my hands, I guess I can swing $12. (Although had I know this was not a COMPLIMENTARY shuttle, I’d have called a cab an hour ago.)

After a fifteen minute drive, we arrived at a pleasant looking office building and were greeted by Tiffany the bubbling podium checker-inner. I remember her name because she repeated it every time someone came in the door. Which was often. We told her we were there for our park tickets and she checked us in, then pointed us towards a lounge area. I scoped the place out and soon realized that this particular office managed several different time share properties.

After 20 min or so, I was called up to the main desk where I advised the man at the computer what I needed. He handed me a folder and told me to have a seat in one of the side offices. Okay…well….I guess. A few minutes later a woman came in and asked us for our ID. I assumed this was to verify that we were the true intended recipients of the tickets. The folder the dude gave me detailed the joys of time share ownership. I had to grin a moment and thought “If only dad were here.”

About ten minutes later, the lady returned with a frown and asked who had booked our tour. Uh…….come again? I advised her that there was no tour, we were JUST there to pick up our tickets. She then advised us that we couldn’t get our tickets without taking the tour. I advised her we weren’t interested in the tour, we just need to get the tickets that were already paid for, and were supposed to have been waiting for us the night before. She then told us we couldn’t take the tour because we didn’t meet the minimum age requirement.

Have you ever had a conversation where you felt like you were talking to a jar of fruit? I was having one of those conversations. I advised her again that we did NOT require a tour as our tickets were already paid for. We just needed to pick them up.

She told us to wait for a few moments and that’s when Manager Guy 2.0 came in. His hair wasn’t quite as frozen as Manager Guy 1.0 from 1990, but he did seem to be equipped with the same perma-grin. I again explained the situation to him and he went in the back to “check the files”. A few minutes later, he came back, apologized for the mixup and advised us that if we would have a seat in the lounge, they’d get our tickets.

HALLELUJAH!

Perusing a wall map of Orlando in the lounge, I discovered our resort which was “Close to Property” was on the other side of airport from The World. (AKA far eastern side of Orlando.) I’m not sure what unit of measure was used when determining that the use of the word CLOSE, was appropriate, but I guess compared to I don’t know, say Atlanta, it qualified. (I also wondered what abyss they pulled the three star rating out of.)

After another 10-15 min wait I was again called back up to the counter. Computer dude had an envelope sitting in front of him. Great, we’re making progress! He then said “Okay, Mr. Biscuit, we’re all set here, will you be paying by Visa or Mastercard?” Being caught off guard I stared the guy and replied “Paying for what?” To which he replied “The park tickets you ordered.”

DOH!

I then explained again that the tickets had already been paid for, we just needed to pick them up. He then scowled at his screen for several minutes and advised that there was no record of the tickets having been paid for.

I asked to see Manager Guy 2.0 and after another several-minute wait, was called back to one of the side offices. I again explained what was going on and he went to “re-pull the file”. He then said that while there WAS a credit card number in the file, it was one digit short so they had been unable to charge it.

He did offer to let me use the phone so, not knowing my Aunt’s LeeAnn’s phone number by heart, I called my mom. I explained the situation and she gave my the correct number. At the time, Aunt LeeAnn was a partner in a home health agency in Arizona. When I called, I reached an office assistant and discovered my aunt was with a client. I gave her the lowdown and she promised to have my aunt call me ASAP.

About twenty minutes later, the computer guy at the desk brought me back up and advised I had a phone call. My aunt was on the line and felt terrible about the problems we were having. She gave me the corrected number and told me if there were any problems to call back within 15 minutes as she had a meeting she had to go to.

You know where this is going don’t you.

I gave the corrected credit card number to front desk dude. He then advised me that since it was a keyed in number and not a swiped card, that he would need to get Manager Guy 2.0 to put it in. Okay, at least we’re making progress again. I returned to the lounge area and waited some more. After about 10 min of not seeing Manager Guy 2.0, I invited myself back to the desk, but had to wait for a couple in front of me to be processed in. I then inquired as to the status of our transaction. Computer guy then looked at me funny and said “We’re waiting on the fax.” Fax? What fax? “To enter the card manually we have to have a copy of it.”

I’m counting now…1 – 2 – 3 – 4- 5- 6-7….

Okay and you didn’t tell me this twenty minutes ago because?????? “Oh, I thought Manager Guy 2.0 explained that to you. Even if you get the numbers over the phone we are still required to have a faxed copy of both sides of the card.” I got back on the phone and called my aunts office, discovered she had just entered the meeting and that it would last for the next 90 minutes or so.

Okay…it’s after 12:30, we haven’t eaten yet, and I’m way too agitated for my own good. We decided to head to the KFC next door and sooth our sorrows southern style….deep fried poultry and massive quantities of gravy. My wife assured me it was all going to be fine, it was just a little delay. But something was gnawing at the back of my mind. Something the shuttle driver had said that I felt was significant.

We returned back to the lounge area and after making sure my aunt had not yet called back, we settled in to wait. My aunt’s meeting ran a few minutes late, but she DID call back as soon as it was over. She soon had the fax sent through and around 2:45, computer dude told me they had it. We still had to wait on Manager Guy 2.0 to finish with someone else, but he eventually emerged and went in the back to run the numbers.

FINALLY around 3:30 PM, computer guy called me back up to the front and handed me the envelopes with the tickets.

JOY! HALLELUJAH! AMEN!

Now where’s the shuttle? We found out from Computer Guy that the shuttle would be here at 4:00 PM PM. Okay. Let’s figure this out. We can wait for the shuttle, take a cab to the motel, or take a cab to property. I asked how far we were from The World and they advised about 22 miles. That’s going to make for an expensive trip there and back. Okay…we’ll wait on the shuttle, (since we’ve already paid for it) head back to motel and then go immediately to the parks. Yet something still bugged me in the back of my brain.

The shuttle van arrived around 4:15. I asked our driver the question that had been bugging me all afternoon. “So is this the same shuttle service that takes guests to Walt Disney World?” He affirmed that it was. I then asked him the golden question…how much does it cost? He then advised me it was $20 per person, per day, but children were free. Well, thank goodness for that. I then asked what the cost was for a ride to the airport and he replied it was a $35 flat fee.

We got back to our motel around four thirty, and were greeted with a sign in the lobby that the pool would be closed for maintenance for the next two days. Well….this day just keeps getting better. I headed up to the room and pulled out the phone book to check on taxi rates to and from The World. After giving our motel address to multiple companies, I found the rates to be even higher than the shuttle. That’s when my heart finally sank. I realized that we had a choice. We could go the parks every day or we could eat, but we could NOT do both.

While I was working my way through the yellow pages, I heard a startled shriek from the bathroom area. Tracy then advised me that there was a bug in there. It turned out to be a roach. A MASSIVE roach. This was the pretty much the end of the fun for us. Let me just tell you that there are few things in the world as disheartening as being in Orlando, with unused Park Hoppers, time, and enough money for food plus a couple of souvenirs, and then realizing that it’s just NOT going to happen. We talked it over, and neither of us wanted to be stuck in a white walled room with no pool and nothing to do for the next three days besides chasing roaches.

I called the airline and found out that we could try to get on a plane early by going standby, and if they could take us, we wouldn’t have to pay extra. There was a flight out that night and Tracy and I decided that we’d just head back home. I can’t begin to express how horrible I felt for Tracy at that moment. As upset as I was about missing the parks, I felt worse about letting her down.

I called my mom and told her the whole sad tale and that we were packing up and heading out. She told me she’d call me back in 30 minutes and not to leave for the airport until we talked to her. I wanted to tell her it would take three times that long for shuttle man to show up, but I couldn’t bring myself to make a joke, even a small one.

My mom called back about thirty minutes later and told me they had found us another place to stay and gave me an address. Given the events of the past two days, I was not yet ready to celebrate. I called the phone number on the business card the shuttle driver had given me and gave him the address. He said we would drive us over for $25. Okay fine, worse case scenario, we go to the airport in the morning. He told me he would be there in an hour, so about an hour and twenty minutes later we headed down. This time we only waited in the lobby about five minutes before he got there. (I may not be the sharpest cheddar in the cheese case, but I'm trainable.)

Our driver then started loading up our gear, Tracy got in the van, and I went to check out. My friend the mini-TV fan from the night before was back at the front desk again. I got his attention and told him I was ready to check out. He looked quite confused for a minute. Apparently people only check IN when he is working. He then looked us up, and said “You aren’t scheduled to check out until Saturday.” I replied that I knew that, but I was checking out now. He then replied “But you are already booked. You can’t check out early.” I then held out the keys and said “We’re checking out now, here is our room key.” He responded with “I cannot accept the key from you sir, we don’t allow early checkout."

And THAT my friends, is when I lost it.

Now there’s something you need to understand. I RARELY loose my temper. I tend to be even-keel almost to a fault. Before transferring to my current department I was the escalations rep for tier two tech support. Whenever someone came on the line screaming and cursing at another rep, I took over the call and calmed them down. I can handle stressful situations without loosing my cool. But on that fateful night, the events of the past two days had already pushed me to the edge; and the absolute absurdity of the conversation I was now having was all it took to give me the final shove.

I slammed the key on the counter, and drawing on every molecule of park beast within me, I literally bellowed “WE ARE LEAVING THIS GOD-FORSAKEN HELLHOLE RIGHT NOW SO TAKE THESE KEYS AND STUFF 'EM IN WHATEVER ORIFICE YOU FEEL APPROPRIATE!” I then turned, exited and shook the dust of the place from my feet. (In a perfect world, I would have farted on my way out the door...but that day the world was far from perfect.) My finest moment? Probably not. But I have to say I felt much better getting into the van.

At this point in time, I still wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but after the past two days, I was content to simply sit and be driven. About a half hour later, we pulled into the Holiday Day Inn Nikki Bird. I introduced us at the front desk as Mr. and Mrs. Biscuit, and the lady checking us in immediately apologized for the horrible honeymoon we had been having. She then explained that my Aunt Jana had called and told her what we’d been through and arranged for us to stay there for the rest of our trip.

She then advised us that the resort did indeed offer a complimentary shuttle to the parks which ran several times daily and gave us the schedule. She then gave us a map, pointed out the pool, hot tub, dining room, gift shop and all that other nifty stuff. She told us on our last day, we would leave our bags at the hotel after checking out to maximize our park time. Finally she told us that if we had any problems at all, to call the desk and ask for her personally.

In that moment it was as if a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I had been afraid to get my hopes up before, but now I stood there, jaw open, and looked around. The place was absolutely amazing. I know this may sound crazy, but I couldn’t have been happier if I were checking into the Contemporary. The resort was such a STARK opposite of where we had just come from, that it isn’t even possible to express it.

I was so happy, I could have leaned across the counter and kissed her. But I didn’t…cause, well I was on my honeymoon, and as Tracy had not yet had a good soul-cleansing release of pent up emotion, I had a pretty good idea as to which orifice she would select as the recipient of our new room key. We were then escorted to a waiting golf cart, and a smiling dude in a bright shirt drove us to our room.

How do you say thank you to someone for something like this? Especially when they have already given so much for you to be there to begin with? Aunt Janna, if we haven’t said it recently, let me say it again. Thank you so much! We appreciate it more than you can know. You literally saved our honeymoon.

Mom and LeeAnn, thank you as well for helping us get to live our dream and for bending over backwards when things went off kilter. (And since neither of you are WDW nuts, you should Google those last two words together with the word Epcot.)

We love you all! :grouphug:

Matt & Tracy

Coming up on Episode 24 – Our honeymoon truly begins and we discover an old friend.

Click here to be taken to the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31111593&postcount=276)

Beka

03-26-2009, 09:33 PM

Oh my gosh, I got mad for you. I would have lost my cool LONG before you did!

chicagoshannon

03-26-2009, 10:02 PM

What a horrible experience! Glad things are looking up.

brookelizabeth

03-27-2009, 01:00 AM

What a horrible start to your honeymoon! Your family is WONDERFUL for stepping in and saving it. :thumbsup2

I have to admit, I laughed out loud at your comment about "stuffing the keys..." when you lost your cool....:rotfl: I KNOW I would have lost it, that roach would have been my last straw.

I am a Tier 2 Support Rep. I deal with the screamers too. Thankfully we don't get too many of those, but when we do, they are doozies!

Vexorg

03-27-2009, 01:48 AM

jcc0621

03-27-2009, 09:52 AM

OMG! You must have the patience of Job! :worship: I would have been freking and if I had seen the roach I would of been out of there so fast your head would have spun:scared1:

The Holiday Inn sound so much better!:wizard:

Uh-oh....did you run into ALice when you got the MK?popcorn::

joleen76

03-27-2009, 10:24 AM

Holy Buscuits and gravy!!!

What a nightmare!! :scared1: The shuttle guy and then the roach!! Oh no! I was also mad for you and ready to take them on (verbally of course) in your stead.

I'm so glad your Aunt and Mom got things fixed for you...they sound like the greatest.

As far as the gas you would have expelled....well we'll just pretend you did, it's like the victory fight song!

Can't wait to hear more....popcorn::

PrincessV

03-27-2009, 11:09 AM

DUDE.

I can't even laugh - you guys lived every Disney-goers worst nightmare! AND on your freaking honeymoon, to boot! :hug::hug:

I'm so, so, so glad things got worked out in the end. What a wonderful family you have. :goodvibes

And, frankly, any brand-new marriage that can survive that experience has "longevity" written all over it! :thumbsup2

Kimberly815

03-27-2009, 12:05 PM

Yippee! A happy ending! Let the fun begin!!

burly

03-27-2009, 12:52 PM

GOOD GRIEF!!!!!!!!:scared1:
Why the heck do we say that anyway, good grief, no grief is good! Must be the good that comes out of it. :confused3
What a WONDERFUL Family you have.:dance3:
Can you look back and laugh? Cause all crazy stupid things happen so you can look back and laugh at it. :rotfl2:
Wow.:thumbsup2
popcorn::

whogirl'smom

03-27-2009, 01:22 PM

Whew! That was almost painful to read, but what a honeymoon story it made! I had to laugh at wanting to fart on the way out the door. :rotfl2:

DisneyNutMary

03-27-2009, 03:18 PM

OMG, what a horrible way to begin your honeymoon.
For a while there, I thought you really would end up on a plane home. I wonder who bought into that crappy timeshare, and if it still exists even!

I hope the trip gets better from here on out.

Backstage_Gal

03-27-2009, 06:50 PM

Joining in the "how horrible" chorus. WOW, what an experience, even worse than having your mother-in-law go on your honeymoon to Paris with you (that would be MY MIL). Your experience was worse, but mine lasted longer....

Glad to see that things are starting to look up :thumbsup2

GreatBiscuit

03-27-2009, 08:18 PM

Oh my gosh, I got mad for you. I would have lost my cool LONG before you did! It was def enough to make your blood boil.

What a horrible experience! Glad things are looking up. Up was the only way they could go!

What a horrible start to your honeymoon! Your family is WONDERFUL for stepping in and saving it. :thumbsup2

I have to admit, I laughed out loud at your comment about "stuffing the keys..." when you lost your cool....:rotfl: I KNOW I would have lost it, that roach would have been my last straw.

I am a Tier 2 Support Rep. I deal with the screamers too. Thankfully we don't get too many of those, but when we do, they are doozies! Kudos to Tier II reps! Greatest Tier II call I ever took was a guy who was convinced that all cell phones were owned by CIA and that the "internet troopers" were stalking him. I gotta agree with you one the family! They are the best!

Whatever doesn't kill us makes us stronger, right? On the other hand whatever does kill us makes us dead, but that's beside the point.

And yeah, having done a couple of years in tech support myself (at the notorious Keane Federal Pentitentary and Tech Support Call Center) I can certainly relate.

Remember: Tech Support people don't go to Hell; They're already doing time in Purgatory. So goes the theory...tech support call centers are an experience unique unto themselves.

OMG! You must have the patience of Job! :worship: I would have been freking and if I had seen the roach I would of been out of there so fast your head would have spun:scared1:

The Holiday Inn sound so much better!:wizard:

Uh-oh....did you run into ALice when you got the MK?popcorn::No Alice Hugging on this trip! The roach was pretty much our last straw as well.

Holy Buscuits and gravy!!!

What a nightmare!! :scared1: The shuttle guy and then the roach!! Oh no! I was also mad for you and ready to take them on (verbally of course) in your stead.

I'm so glad your Aunt and Mom got things fixed for you...they sound like the greatest.

As far as the gas you would have expelled....well we'll just pretend you did, it's like the victory fight song!

Can't wait to hear more....popcorn:: Here's to imaginary retalitory flatulence!

DUDE.

I can't even laugh - you guys lived every Disney-goers worst nightmare! AND on your freaking honeymoon, to boot! :hug::hug:

I'm so, so, so glad things got worked out in the end. What a wonderful family you have. :goodvibes

And, frankly, any brand-new marriage that can survive that experience has "longevity" written all over it! :thumbsup2 That much is true. We've been through really dark stormmy nights, and some really bright and wonderful days. It's definitely brought us closer together.

Yippee! A happy ending! Let the fun begin!! I'm with you! Although we did have a FEW more moments of un-joy as we shall soon see.

GOOD GRIEF!!!!!!!!:scared1:
Why the heck do we say that anyway, good grief, no grief is good! Must be the good that comes out of it. :confused3
What a WONDERFUL Family you have.:dance3:
Can you look back and laugh? Cause all crazy stupid things happen so you can look back and laugh at it. :rotfl2:
Wow.:thumbsup2
popcorn::I blame Charlie Brown. Cause no one else ever does. Except for Peppermint Patty. Which really isn't fair, but neither is life so I guess that's the point. I've forgotten what I was talking about now. Ah yes, laughter. We can laugh now. Not so much then.

Whew! That was almost painful to read, but what a honeymoon story it made! I had to laugh at wanting to fart on the way out the door. :rotfl2: It was painful to live through too let me tell you! But we made it!

OMG, what a horrible way to begin your honeymoon.
For a while there, I thought you really would end up on a plane home. I wonder who bought into that crappy timeshare, and if it still exists even!

I hope the trip gets better from here on out. It DOES get better! I've wondered on the Time Share thing too. Talking about it aftwards, it wasn't on the list long so either it was some sort of temporary thing or it just bombed. We saw signs saying it was going to be renovated, but who knows.

Joining in the "how horrible" chorus. WOW, what an experience, even worse than having your mother-in-law go on your honeymoon to Paris with you (that would be MY MIL). Your experience was worse, but mine lasted longer....

Glad to see that things are starting to look up :thumbsup2 I'd be in lockup if my MIL came on our honeymoon. Literally. I wouldn't have made it. I'd be sitting in a padded cell right now somewhere on Discovery Island.

lurkyloo

03-31-2009, 12:52 PM

GreatBiscuit

03-31-2009, 06:22 PM

OK, I just started your trip report and have only read Post #1 and the Great Biscuit Origin Story, but I am enjoying them so much I had to comment. And my comment is this: Great trip(s) report! :thumbsup2 Thanks and Welcome! :welcome:

Also, I too am married to a twin, so I will take a lesson from your experience and, at our next family gathering, make darn sure I know whose butt I'm patting in my in-laws' kitchen! :rotfl:
That's good advice, let me tell you. You should also never point out to your spouse's twin that you know what they look like Au Natural... It doesn't go well.

GreatBiscuit

03-31-2009, 06:25 PM

Hey Everyone! Sorry for the delay. I know I normally post on Mondays and Thursdays, but we are on a weird training schedule this week at work so my brain is off. More than normal. I'm going to try to get my act together and get something posted tonight. As to the photo post, I'm still working on it. I forgot about this weekend being the setup time for our Easter play at church. (Where of course your's truly managed to find disaster yet again...more on that later.) Not to worry, I'm going to get that put together ASAP.

See ya real soon!

GreatBiscuit

03-31-2009, 08:22 PM

NEWS ALERT: Those of you who have been following along will no doubt be shocked and surprised to discover that over the weekend I took a dive off a step ladder. I was up at the church, happily bolting some flats together for the Easter play and somehow leaned past the point of no return. The ladder went right, I went left and I wound up doing the whole running in air move on the way day. The resulting crash was profound and those who were in attendance thought I’d killed myself. Fortunately there were no traumatic injuries and I’m happy to report the ladder is expected to make a full recovery. We now return to our regularly scheduled program.

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, tickets were sought, frustration ran high, and Biscuit had a moment. When we arrived at our room at the Nikki Bird, we were immediately struck by the contrast between where we had just left and the room we were now entering. There were paintings on the walls, un-holy bedding, stain free carpets, absence of foot odor and no bug-like critters in sight. Our porter helped us get the luggage in, showed us the room’s features (including, unfortunately, the in-room safe), and made sure we were properly settled.

After offering up a tip and much thanks, we collapsed in a heap and tried to come up with a plan for dinner. There was a short order grill/café type thing there off of the main lobby. I don’t remember the specifics of it as we never actually ate there. It was either closed at that time or we just didn’t feel like that type of food.

While pondering our options, I happened to catch a glimpse out the window of an old friend. If you remember a couple of posts back, on our first “group friends” outing, Tracy and I ate a Perkins. It just so happened that there was one right across the street from the hotel. I suggested we celebrate our honeymoon restart with a meal at the restaurant where our relationship first began. Stand back, Biscuit’s breakin’ out the romance baby. Okay, so technically it wasn’t the SAME exact physical restaurant, but after losing two park days and going nine rounds with the “tour” lady, it was the best I could come up with. AND it was close which meant no need for shuttles. (YEAH!)

Before we left, I stuffed the camera/camcorder bag into the in room safe. I don’t know why I did this. To my knowledge there was no clandestine camera thief lurking in the bowels of the Holiday Inn. Yet for whatever reason, I felt it was important that our optical recording devices be secure. Tracy teased me about not forgetting the combination and I assured her that it was locked away deep within the recesses of my brain. (Raise your hand if you see where that one’s going.)

We walked over to Perkins and were seated right away. Those of you familiar with this chain know that this means absolutely nothing. After the requisite delay, our server emerged and we ordered up a bread bowl salad to split. (Those things are massive and surprisingly tasty). During the meal we finally got a chance to relax a bit, and even managed to get a good laugh at just how crazy the past two days had been.

I opted for a slice of Key Lime pie for dessert and was not disappointed. While normally sweets are not a huge temptation for me, there are 5 that I am powerless to resist. 1. My Mom’s Homemade Apple Pie. 2. Vanilla Bean Cheesecake. 3. Key Lime Pie. 4. Texas Sheet Cake. 5. Homemade Blackberry Cobbler.

Our server was great, and when she found out we were on our honeymoon, she took great joy in urging us to order something with more carbs to “Keep our strength up”. Every time she came back, she’d tease us about needing to hurry up and head back to the room.
By the time we were done with the meal, we were both laughing like crazy. She was a great server and really lightened the mood of the day.

When we finally did get back to the room, I went to take the cameras out of the safe, because, obviously no thief would dare to take on Great Biscuit in person. I then discovered that the recesses of my brain were deeper than I realized. Try as I might, I could not figure out what I had used as the combo. I personally blame the device because as a highly skilled and trained computer operator, I know that it could NOT have been user error. A quick call to the front desk brought a maintenance guy to the door within 5 min. He had some nifty little electronic doo-hicky with him and was able to reset it in no time flat. This of course resulted in much eye rolling being sent my way. (I’m not naming names.)

After promising not to touch the pretty shiny toys, I helped Tracy unpack. This was a good sign, as we did not unpack a thing at the prior motel. There was still a good hour before the pool closed so we headed down for an evening swim. The pool seemed pretty nifty. I don’t recall the specifics of the place, but I was just happy that it wasn’t closed for maintenance. There was a hot tub at one end and just as we were literally putting our toes in, security came by and advised that they were closing the pool early that night due to noise complaints.

Joy. Well, on the bright side, we don’t have to worry about trying to put on wet bathing suits the next time we want to go swimming right?

When we got back to the room, I found a notepad and started working on mapping out “The Plan 2.2” We had two and a half park days left so I made a list of things that we really wanted to do. Tracy had never been to the Disney MGM Studios, and it was my top pick as well, so we decided to start with that park. Our plan wound up as follows: Day 1 – MGM. Day 2 -MK. Day 3 – ½ day EPCOT and fly home. (Animal Kingdom was not yet open.)

Would this be the plan that we actually stuck with? Absolutely not. But that’s getting ahead of myself. With a pseudo plan mapped out and the promise of park patronage in our future, I was one happy Biscuit. I set out to conquer the ice machine, not because we really needed ice, but because it bugs me not to make use of the handy bucket they give you. After wandering aimlessly for quite some time, I finally managed to locate the ice dispenser….about three doors down. I grabbed us an overpriced bottle of 1997 Mr. Pibb,(an excellent vintage I might add) and returned to the room triumphant, having hunted and subdued my prey.

Before turning in, I got the camcorder charging, the sunscreen set out, the film loaded in the camera, the lenses cleaned, the tickets set by the door and when my wife wasn’t looking I stuck my wallet in the in room safe. I made SURE this time though to use a number I would NOT forget. Which I didn’t. Turns out that forgetting the number wasn’t quite what I should have been focusing on.

Coming up on Episode 25 - Yes! We’re at a Park! Hey, where’s my wallet?...DOH!

Click Here for the Next Episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31135861&postcount=286)

KittyKat08

03-31-2009, 09:44 PM

Well sheesh, thank goodness the ladder is going to be okay. :rolleyes:

As for the rest of this report.......:thumbsup2 :laughing: :worship: :worship:

That is all.

jcc0621

03-31-2009, 09:49 PM

whogirl'smom

03-31-2009, 10:08 PM

Oh, no, tell me you didn't. :sad2::rotfl2:

burly

04-01-2009, 10:15 AM

Bwahahahahahahahaha:rotfl:

joleen76

04-01-2009, 05:39 PM

Sounds like your weekend and mine were similar in the pain department. Sadly my fence did not make it out in as good of a condition as your ladder. :)

Nooooo not and ESTO issue??? (equipment supperior to operator for those playing along at home)

I'm glad things are looking up....:confused3 until I hear about this wallet issue....can I get a DOH?

Can't wait for more!

GreatBiscuit

04-01-2009, 06:54 PM

Well sheesh, thank goodness the ladder is going to be okay. :rolleyes:

As for the rest of this report.......:thumbsup2 :laughing: :worship: :worship:

That is all. Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

You get extra points for even remembering that!:thumbsup2 That's what I told my wife.

Boy, I'dbe ticked if the maintenance guy rolled his eyes at me. I am certain that it was not your lovely wife who did such a thing. I know, becasue as a wife I would NEVER do such a thing:rolleyes1 My wife got a kick out out that one. Yeah....that maintenance guy really needs to watch it.

Oh, no, tell me you didn't. :sad2::rotfl2: I did.

Bwahahahahahahahaha:rotfl: Glad you enjoyed!

Sounds like your weekend and mine were similar in the pain department. Sadly my fence did not make it out in as good of a condition as your ladder. :)Ladder is healing so that's all good.

Nooooo not and ESTO issue??? (equipment supperior to operator for those playing along at home) Yep an ETSO....there are other acroynyms that make their way around the call center, but this one is definitely more family friendly.

I'm glad things are looking up....:confused3 until I hear about this wallet issue....can I get a DOH?

Can't wait for more! I'll ALWAYS offer up a DOH!

Backstage_Gal

04-01-2009, 07:53 PM

Oh no, more foreshadowing!!!!!!!!

Glad you survived the fall, OUCH! Great chapter again, thanks.

PrincessV

04-02-2009, 08:44 AM

NEWS ALERT: Those of you who have been following along will no doubt be shocked and surprised to discover that over the weekend I took a dive off a step ladder.
D'OH! :headache: Nope, not surprised at all. ;) Glad you're okay, though!

Before we left, I stuffed the camera/camcorder bag into the in room safe.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no!!!!! :scared:

We walked over to Perkins and were seated right away. Those of you familiar with this chain know that this means absolutely nothing.
:lmao: So true!

Hey, where’s my wallet?...DOH!
:scared1:

GreatBiscuit

04-02-2009, 09:25 AM

Oh no, more foreshadowing!!!!!!!!

Glad you survived the fall, OUCH! Great chapter again, thanks. Thanks! Glad you enjoyed. You know the old saying. When it rains...

D'OH! :headache: Nope, not surprised at all. ;) Glad you're okay, though! Thanks...I was surprised to have made it through unscathed.

GreatBiscuit

04-02-2009, 09:35 AM

It's been a crazy week, but I finally managed to get some photos scanned. (Actually the scanner died, so I used my digital camera to take pictures of pictures so the quality isn't the greatest....hence the streak on the last one.) DIS'ers, meet First Lady Biscuit. FLB, the DIS'ers.

Homecoming 1996
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/homec96-1.jpg
_____________________

Engagement 1997
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/eng.jpg

_____________________

Wedding 1997
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/wed-1.jpg

_____________________
Coming up on Episode 25 - Yes! We’re at a Park! Hey, where’s my wallet?...DOH!

Click Here for the Next Episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31161230&postcount=293)

burly

04-02-2009, 01:51 PM

Yay pictures.:cool1:
Hello first lady biscuit...:goodvibes

brookelizabeth

04-02-2009, 02:48 PM

Whatever doesn't kill us makes us stronger, right? On the other hand whatever does kill us makes us dead, but that's beside the point.

And yeah, having done a couple of years in tech support myself (at the notorious Keane Federal Pentitentary and Tech Support Call Center) I can certainly relate.

Remember: Tech Support people don't go to Hell; They're already doing time in Purgatory.

:rotfl2: I just sent that "remember" quote to my co-worker (another Tier 2 rep). She's out to lunch, but she will get a huge kick out of that considering our past week!

Are you serious about the Federal Pentitentary?!!?!

Kudos to Tier II reps! Greatest Tier II call I ever took was a guy who was convinced that all cell phones were owned by CIA and that the "internet troopers" were stalking him. I gotta agree with you one the family! They are the best!

Oh my! :rotfl: That is an awesome call!

My favorite call EVER was as a Tier 1 Rep and it went something like this:

Caller: The Heatmaps won't print in color.
Me: Hmmm...let me do a quick test here.
<printed heatmap to color printer, sure enough they are in color>
Me: When you print something else to that printer, does it come out in color?
Caller: Let me try...
<she tests>
Caller: No, it's just black and white!
Me: It sounds like you aren't printing to a color printer.
Caller: Oooooh.

:idea:

GB-great update! Sorry to hear about the ladder, but glad he's healing well.

I have to admit, I chuckled out loud at your upcoming entry title :laughing: But really...oh no...:headache: Just adds to the adventure, eh?

I so wish Perkins still did the breadbowl salads. I loved the breadbowls!

Love the pics too!! Very sweet.

Backstage_Gal

04-02-2009, 06:12 PM

Pleased to meet you, FLB!

Great pics, you make a very cute couple!

stinkerbell007

04-03-2009, 12:25 AM

...aawwww.

now, that's nice right there. :goodvibes

She's a right nice FLB, I must say.

burly

04-03-2009, 12:29 AM

Yessireebob.:goodvibes

GreatBiscuit

04-03-2009, 01:41 PM

Yay pictures.:cool1:
Hello first lady biscuit...:goodvibes

Love the pics too!! Very sweet.

Pleased to meet you, FLB!

Great pics, you make a very cute couple!

...aawwww.

now, that's nice right there. :goodvibes

She's a right nice FLB, I must say.

Yessireebob.:goodvibes

Thanks everyone! FLB was quite flattered and most appreciative. Updates coming soon!

stinkerbell007 - :welcome: I'm glad you found your way over. And a Burly relative to boot? Well that's just plain nifty.

I so wish Perkins still did the breadbowl salads. I loved the breadbowls! They don't have those anymore? What a shame!

GreatBiscuit

04-03-2009, 06:25 PM

Editor’s Note: For the remainder of trip 6, I will have photos from two sources, my regular film camera and screen captures from our video camera. The screen captures will be smaller and will look like…well screen captures.
________________________________

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, new toys were discovered, salads were served in oversized baked goods, and The Plan was resurrected.

I awoke early the next morning, eager and raring to go. I don’t know for sure what time it was, but I think it was still dark outside. I said something to Tracy about hitting the parks early, she said something about killing a Biscuit and I decided to give her 5 more minutes.

The next thing I knew I was being violently shaken and told “Quit falling back to sleep and get up already, we need to get ready to go!” “What time is iaaa-ya-ya-yabadoosky! We gotta move baby!” Having memorized the bus schedule, I knew that a bus ran at 11:00 AM. It was now 10:40. Apparently the events of the past two days had worn me out more than I thought! Luckily I didn’t need to do much to get ready, though at this point I would have gone running to the bus in my drawers if I had to.

We managed to make it on time AND I remembered to grab the camera bag. Go Biscuit, Go Biscuit, It’s your Honeymoon, You da Plan Man! So feeling fully stoked for a day of park blitzing, I was in high spirits when we arrived at MGM. I had about $19 in cash & change that was loose in my shorts pocket. (Change from a pack of gum in the airport that I never bothered to stuff in my wallet, and just grabbed off the nightstand that morning.) I used this to tip the bus driver so I didn’t need to pull my wallet out at the time.

We walked up to the turnstiles (which by 11:20ish had no line) and presented our park hoppers. It was a fine moment in the life of Great Biscuit, so I to pause here and mention myself in third person as a memorial.

.
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm1.png
.

The skies were looking questionable, but I was prepared not to care too much about the daily rain showers that seem to be commonplace this time of year. Besides, it’s usually just a quick burst and then the sun comes back out right?

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgmCrossrowads.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgmHollwoodblvd3.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm31.png

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgmHollwoodBlvd.jpg

We meandered down Hollywood Blvd and Tracy left the park navigating to me. After all I was the man with the plan, the Disney park veteran, king of the touring stratagem. And where did I lead my new bride to partake of her first ever Disney MGM Studios attraction?

Do you really need to ask?

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm41.png

Seriously, could it have been any other?

Now before you go feeling all sorry for Tracy, I must point out that she is actually a Star Wars fan herself. So this ride was one we BOTH enjoyed. Which of course was my SOLE motivation for beginning here you understand. The line wasn’t too long for this, and on the video of the queue, we never really stopped walking. As this is one of my favorite queues anyway, I was good to go.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm51.png

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm71.png

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm61-1.png

After again escaping death, it was time to procure some lunch. Tracy asked where we should go to eat and I hit my first road block. Hmmm…well…let’s see. This whole “eat all our meals in the park” thing is new to me. The last time I was here, the only meal we had at MGM was at the Backlot Express. And since I foolishly passed on grabbing a park map on the way in and have no clue where any other table service restaurant is, AND would spend unknown amounts of time wandering aimlessly in search of an alterative, AND as we are actually standing next to said eatery, we should probably go there. This of course was a dialog I had in my mind. Out loud I said, “Follow me! Will find meat. Make big fire!” Or something to that effect anyway.

I strutted into the place like I owned it, and walked my dear bride up to the queue. We ordered up a couple of burgers with fries and drinks and the total was something like $16 or $17. I went to grab my wallet and hey….where’s my…must be in the other pocket…I…hmm…check other pockets…..hmmm….when did I have it last? Perkins? No, I put it in the safe last night. Let’s see then, this morning I got ready, grabbed my stuff, went to the safe, grabbed my sunglasses off the top of it and left. DOH! GREAT BISCUITS A BURNIN! Well, I still got some cash. That’s good; we can ate least eat one meal today.

Tracy didn’t have to ask. She knew. She could tell by the look in my eye. We’d been married all of 4 days and she could already read my mind. She rolled her eyes (a trick she must have learned from the maintenance guy) and said “You left it in the safe didn’t you.” “What?? Come on? Which safe? I mean? Seriously? My wallet…well…ummm….actually…you see what happened was…and then the wind you know was blowing really hard…and the phone….so my shoelaces were all knotty and um…well….yes dear.”

After we found a spot to chow down, we took a financial inventory. Turns out Tracy had some cash in her pocket as well, so we had about $10 left to get us through until park close. Challenging, but not impossible.

Our late start meant that we were going to have to do some attraction juggling. I made an executive decision to cut the Indy stunt show. I had seen it and Tracy’s wasn’t really interested. Also, after much mourning, I cut the Tower of Terror. Tracy is not a freefall / drop you till you’re silly type of a ride fan. Since I knew this would have to be a solo ride, I just cut it out all together. (This was still before FastPass and of course in my pre-DIS days I knew nothing about solo lines.) I also decided to cut the ABC Sound Studio as I didn’t care for the first show and this seemed to be the same thing re-done.

About halfway through our meal, the skies opened up. Have you ever been sitting in a counter service restaurant when it started raining and just watched to see what happens? Within moments, the doors burst open and a flood of humanity comes pouring in. It then becomes a battle of the masses for open seating. After several minutes of this unscheduled entertainment, the rain let up and folks began heading out.

This is great thought I. The Florida atmosphere has rid itself of its daily rain quota and we’ll have sunny skies the rest of the day! Hello! Have you not been paying attention at all the past couple days here Biscuit? This is the Murphy’s Law Honeymoon. (Not be confused with Murphy Brown which was oddly addictive yet consistently annoying.) We set off in the general direction of the backlot and SOMEHOW managed to miss the Muppets 3-D. By miss, I mean I was completely unaware it even existed until I read about it two years later on a trip report. (Guess maybe I SHOULD have stopped and grabbed a map as I was blazing through the turnstiles).

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm81.png

We saw these guys out, but did not stop for meeting and greeting. Nope, we were on mission. You remember that whole film-loving compulsion of mine. I was bent on catching a glimpse of a production being filmed at the Disney MGM Studios during our trip. Tom Hanks was in town and he was producing and directing a mini-series entitled From the Earth to the Moon. There were signs for it all over the place and I couldn’t wait to get a peek at an actual, real live, working movie set.

Space + Filmmaking + Disney + Day with my wife = Great Biscuit utopia.

Turns out Hanks wasn’t the only creative film maker in the Studios that day.

Coming up on Episode 25 – Oh watch! This is where I got splashed and jumped! Hey is that…..DOH! (How our honeymoon video inadvertently turned out to be PG-13!)

Click Here for the Next Episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31208928&postcount=299)

burly

04-04-2009, 12:54 AM

Okay so when you asked which ride you went on first, i swear i heard a chorus of people sing out "Star Tours!"....:rotfl2:

whipped around and almost fell off my chair. must have all been in my head.........:rolleyes1

GreatBiscuit

04-04-2009, 01:53 PM

brookelizabeth

04-06-2009, 12:59 AM

They don't have those anymore? What a shame!

Does this mean you haven't taken First Lady Biscuit to Perkins on every anniversary?!?!?! ;)

It is a shame really. Now it's just salad on a non-edible plate.

Star Tours as the first ride? Whoa-never saw that one coming!! :laughing: You'll have to be sure to hit Muppets on your upcoming trip, it's a fun show!!

Glad to hear Tracy had some bucks on her too-this should make for an interesting dinner, 2 people, $10, theme park. Hmmmm...

whogirl'smom

04-06-2009, 09:13 AM

Sweet pictures. :goodvibes

I see an interesting lunch in your future.

GreatBiscuit

04-06-2009, 07:51 PM

Does this mean you haven't taken First Lady Biscuit to Perkins on every anniversary?!?!?! ;)

It is a shame really. Now it's just salad on a non-edible plate.

Unfortunately, there are no Perkins' around our neck of the woods.

Star Tours as the first ride? Whoa-never saw that one coming!! :laughing: You'll have to be sure to hit Muppets on your upcoming trip, it's a fun show!! Def need some Muppet action.

Glad to hear Tracy had some bucks on her too-this should make for an interesting dinner, 2 people, $10, theme park. Hmmmm... Made for an interesting day.

Sweet pictures. :goodvibes
I see an interesting lunch in your future.
Thanks! It was a unique dining day, that's for sure.

GreatBiscuit

04-06-2009, 07:52 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, Stars were Toured, wallets were forgotten and then rain came down. After a leisurely stroll down New York Street, we made our way to the backstage tour area.

We began with the queue for the “Special Effects Water Tank.” (A thrilling and heart stopping show to be sure!) Somehow, we wound up front and center and laughed at the poor soul being drenched for our amusement. It had been a while since I had seen this particular spiel, so I found it mildly interesting. .

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm123.jpg

One thing I had definitely forgotten about was the spray from the “Sea Battle” which tends to splash onto the audience. During one particularly hit from an errant torpedo, a rather sizable quantity of water was propelled in our general direction. I was filming with the video camera and did a quick tuck and cover to keep it dry.

At the time, I didn’t think anything of it, and just kept right on recording once I knew it was dry. I didn’t bother backing the tape up, I just kept it rolling. Cause that’s how I roll. ANYWHO….When we got home after our trip and watched the footage, I made a comment to Tracy just before it happened and said something like “Oh, this is where I got splashed!” We watched amusedly as the moment came, then stared in disbelief at the screen. My wife then turned and gave me “The Look” and advised me that editing this particular scene would be good for my general health.

Here’s how it went down….so to speak. I had the camera at eye level and was standing next to my wife. (Important FYI - I am approx 5 inches taller than she is.) When the splash came, I tilted the camera 90 degrees so the lens was pointed straight down. I then pivoted to my left, and leaned towards my wife, selflessly blocking the spray with my ample posterior. This left the camera approximately level with her nose….pointed straight down. Just work through it for a minute.

After our unfortunate, yet still unknown incident, we moved on to the inside portion of the tour. This was fine and dandy with me. The tank thing is okay once, but is really more of an annoyance than anything else. I believe the FX Stage was showing props from 101 Dalmations. After seeing the fake horse legs and other various wonders of movie magic, we finally entered into the sound stages.

The first housed the set for mission control and also had the set for the capsule. I somehow managed to be towards the end of the line and it just so happened that I was front and center watching a scene being filmed! OH HAPPY HAPPY BISCUIT! I couldn’t tell if Tom Hanks was directing this scene or not, but it was still really cool. There were several grips manning various lighting instruments & C-stands, one camera, a sound table, and all sorts of nifty-cool production gear.

This mission control set had a “roof” on it so it just looked like a big wooden box. On the next stage, there were several sets being built. The coolest was the “Moon Surface” set which featured a massive Earth / star field mural setup behind what looked to be a massive sandbox. Also on this stage was a lunar rover and some sort of interior set which also had a “roof” on it. What was cool with this one is that there were several grips rigging it for shooting so we got to see quite a bit of film gear.

I would have loved to have been able to get some shots of the set, but of course they were crazy obsessive over the whole no photo/video thing. If I had it to do over again, I think I would have tried to bootleg some shots, but alas, I do not. Cause, well, apparently the word “Studios” is simply a catchy title now, and not an actual description of what the place is used for.

We finally emerged from our tour and I was flying high. I loved getting to see a working set. It was one of the highlights of the trip for me. Which I guess is why we headed over to the tram. Apparently I needed to bring myself back to reality. (That whole Nature Abhors a Vacuum thing. Star Trek philosophy at its finest.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm91.png

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm101.png

(Hey Vexorg – compare and contrast the condition of the ship…it’s had a rough decade.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm623.jpg

Some George of the Jungle Action.

I felt bad for our CM. She was really trying. It was extremely hot, everyone was hitting their mid-day slump, and no one was really into her canned tram spiel. The longer the ride went, the harder she tried. When we hit Catastrophe Canyon, she hammed it up for all she was worth. Unfortunately, we just weren’t feeling it.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm624.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm111.png

Finally we returned back to the station and had to decide what to do next. It was getting really hot so we decided to seek out some AC. We made our way back to Hollywood Blvd and did some browsing in the shops. (Of course since I had forgotten my wallet, browsing was our only option.) In a way though it was good because we were able to come up with several souvenir ideas and narrow down the list without having to worry about buying A B & C, finding a better deal on D, and then having to take something back.

After some leisurely browsing, we were just about to head back out when it started to rain. Then within minutes, it began to flat out pour. No problem, I guess we’ll wander around in here for a while longer. Luckily this particular storm did not last too long and I was sure that now we were DEFINITELY done with the rain for that day. HA! Turns out the clouds were just getting warmed up.

Coming up on Episode 27 – Monsoons and Mermaids

Click Here for the Next Episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31264341&postcount=308)

chicagoshannon

04-07-2009, 09:02 AM

:lmao: I hope you edited that tape real quick! How cool that you got to see an actual filming! No chance of that now. I think we'll be skipping the backlot tour on our trip this year.

whogirl'smom

04-07-2009, 09:42 AM

We have never done the backlot tour, and I doubt we ever will. At one point I sort of wanted to, but that quicky faded. :lmao: Rather ride RNRC twice!

I'm feeling bad for you guys at this point-- no money for an umbrella!

burly

04-07-2009, 10:47 AM

Backlot tour. i remember the days when you could see stuff actually being FILMED, wow that was great.....:thumbsup2
The good old days....:sad2:

Kimberly815

04-07-2009, 11:45 AM

I really wish they still did some filming at the Studios! It's a shame that it is all gone.

GreatBiscuit

04-07-2009, 08:23 PM

:lmao: I hope you edited that tape real quick! How cool that you got to see an actual filming! No chance of that now. I think we'll be skipping the backlot tour on our trip this year. Believe me, that tape got spliced in a hurry. // It is sad to see the productions and animation gone.

We have never done the backlot tour, and I doubt we ever will. At one point I sort of wanted to, but that quicky faded. :lmao: Rather ride RNRC twice!

I'm feeling bad for you guys at this point-- no money for an umbrella! You definitely are not missing anything. We managed to avoid most of the falling rain, it was the rain on the ground that would wind up being a problem.

Backlot tour. i remember the days when you could see stuff actually being FILMED, wow that was great.....:thumbsup2
The good old days....:sad2: Sad now isn't it?

I really wish they still did some filming at the Studios! It's a shame that it is all gone. I was definitely sad to see the studios throw in the towel when it came to film and animation.

Mrs. The King

04-08-2009, 12:04 AM

(Actually the scanner died, so I used my digital camera to take pictures of pictures so the quality isn't the greatest....hence the streak on the last one.E]

Ah. that is so 1980's I love it. I recently taped a song for the kids off the TV with a recorder. It was so old school. They were so excited about it. it was like I told them I invented electricity.

I used this to tip the bus driver so I didn’t need to pull my wallet out at the time.

You tipped the driver!! See, if you had left that out you would have had more cash to spread around.

We meandered down Hollywood Blvd and Tracy left the park navigating to me. After all I was the man with the plan, the Disney park veteran, king of the touring stratagem. And where did I lead my new bride to partake of her first ever Disney MGM Studios attraction?

Doesn't that feel wonderful? I got to drag Mr. the King around on our honeymoon. Makes you feel like Lewis or Clark or even better yet, Sacagawea!

“Follow me! Will find meat. Make big fire!” Or something to that effect anyway.

If I had a nickel for every time I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2:

DOH! GREAT BISCUITS A BURNIN!

If I had a nickel for everytime I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2:

After we found a spot to chow down, we took a financial inventory. Turns out Tracy had some cash in her pocket as well, so we had about $10 left to get us through until park close. Challenging, but not impossible.

See, nowadays, you would be a host of your own Food Network show.

Also, after much mourning, I cut the Tower of Terror. Tracy is not a freefall / drop you till you’re silly type of a ride fan.

Sweet Tracy had just married a Biscuit. I think she was full up on Terror.

At the time, I didn’t think anything of it, and just kept right on recording once I knew it was dry. I didn’t bother backing the tape up, I just kept it rolling. Cause that’s how I roll. ANYWHO….When we got home after our trip and watched the footage, I made a comment to Tracy just before it happened and said something like “Oh, this is where I got splashed!” We watched amusedly as the moment came, then stared in disbelief at the screen. My wife then turned and gave me “The Look” and advised me that editing this particular scene would be good for my general health.

Aren't you glad that it was your wife's situation and not another lady!? :rotfl:

I felt bad for our CM. She was really trying. It was extremely hot, everyone was hitting their mid-day slump

See, now here I thought I was the only one that called Grandma a "mid-day slump", I stand corrected. Hitting them does make everyone feel better. :woohoo:

Wonderful job Burning Biscuit!!

Keep making the magic (If I had a nickel for every time I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2:)

joleen76

04-09-2009, 10:52 AM

GB another great update!

For all those future honeymooners out there. NEVER.....EVER....say I think it's done raining for the day on your honeymoon. :sad2: We said that too and ended up in a monsoon like condition. It is safe however to say...."the rain might be done for the day" "I hope the rain is done for the day" "well that patch is moved through" etc just don't say It is DONE raining for the day....like the kiss of death for the day at WDW on your honeymoon unless you like floating around. :boat:

Can't believe you forgot your wallet. :lmao: but I almost feel like :sad1: for you. At least your finally in a PARK!!!

Can't wait for more. popcorn::

GreatBiscuit

04-09-2009, 01:48 PM

You tipped the driver!! See, if you had left that out you would have had more cash to spread around. Good point!

Doesn't that feel wonderful? I got to drag Mr. the King around on our honeymoon. Makes you feel like Lewis or Clark or even better yet, Sacagawea! I am definitely looking forward to that this summer. I have not only my family, but my parents are coming and brininging my nephew.

If I had a nickel for every time I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2: +
If I had a nickel for everytime I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2: = :lmao:

See, nowadays, you would be a host of your own Food Network show.That's probably true. I'd call it O'Town with Biscuit Brown. I like that. Anybody know the phone number for Food Network?

Sweet Tracy had just married a Biscuit. I think she was full up on Terror. No THAT I can believe!

Aren't you glad that it was your wife's situation and not another lady!? :rotfl:. In more ways than you can know.

See, now here I thought I was the only one that called Grandma a "mid-day slump", I stand corrected. Hitting them does make everyone feel better. :woohoo: :rotfl2:

Wonderful job Burning Biscuit!!

Keep making the magic (If I had a nickel for every time I said that on the way to the toilet. :sad2:) Thanks MTK! I always love your unique take on things. And I loved your farewell message on Zzub's blog.

GB another great update! Thanks Joleen76!

For all those future honeymooners out there. NEVER.....EVER....say I think it's done raining for the day on your honeymoon. :sad2: We said that too and ended up in a monsoon like condition. It is safe however to say...."the rain might be done for the day" "I hope the rain is done for the day" "well that patch is moved through" etc just don't say It is DONE raining for the day....like the kiss of death for the day at WDW on your honeymoon unless you like floating around. :boat: Well said. This would turn out to be a bad omen. In fact, I can pretty much re-title trip 6 as "What Not to Do on a Disney Honeymoon"

Can't believe you forgot your wallet. :lmao: but I almost feel like :sad1: for you. At least your finally in a PARK!!!

Can't wait for more. popcorn::Believe me gets better...or worse depending on your interpretation. Remember, Tracy has not YET had a chance for a good soul cleansing burst of emotion. (YET being the key descriptor in that sentence.)

GreatBiscuit

04-09-2009, 08:50 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, filming was observed, shops were browsed and the sisters crashed our video. After a leisurely afternoon stroll through numerous shops, we decided to venture out and see what other mischief could be found. Our first stop was the Hunchback Of Notre Dame live show. (I have no idea if that was what it was actually called. It was a show, which was live, featuring the cast of Hunchback.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/hb.jpg

Like most of the film based shows, it was fairly true to the original and was mostly entertaining. It’s not a show whose passing I mourned, but it was okay to see it once. One interesting note is that we were on the front row of the back section. Basically this meant that during the Festival of Fools scene, we had quite a few characters directly in front of us and got peppered with confetti.

Courtesy of this guy:
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/hb3.jpg

Ever have confetti land on you when you are sitting in high heat / high humidity weather? It not only sticks, it somehow melds onto your skin and defies removal.

Random stilted man:
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/hb4.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm121.png

After Quasi realized that Esmerelda was out of his league, we left the theater and made our way back towards the Animation Courtyard. (Sorry Quasi, not every guy can be as luck as I.) The skies were looking ominous, but it was not yet raining. We wound up in line for the Voyage of the Little Mermaid.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm5234.jpg

Since I had not looked at a guide or a park map, I had absolutely no earthly idea what this attraction was. But, Tracy loves the Little Mermaid movie so we queued up and prepared to be surprised. We had about a 15 minute wait before being shown into the theater. No sooner had we set down than we heard a rumble of thunder outside. Good thing we’re in here!

I have to say I was mighty impressed by the lasers & special effects in this show. This was the one and only time I’ve ever seen it, so I’m pretty sure it won’t be nearly so great the next time around. BUT, I know my daughters will LOVE it. I took a lot of video in here, although I don’t really know why. It was too dark to really get anything worth viewing, but alas, I took it anyway.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm131.png

When the show was over, we discovered it was sprinkling outside. As we were close to the Animation Building, we headed that way. The animators were all leaving for the day when we were touring the actual “animation studio” but we did get to see a couple of cells being drawn for Mulan. Once our tour was complete, we found ourselves in the animation gift shop and meandered around a bit. We were looking at some of the animation cells near the back when a thunderclap shook the windows. Soon, it was again pouring outside. Not just heavy rain, blowing rain. Massive sheets coming in at all angles and swirling around like demon possessed lawn sprinklers.

We wound up staying in the shop for nearly an hour and I know we saw every single little item they sold. By the time the rain settled back into a sprinkle, my inner park beast could no longer be contained. It was time to set out. The ground was a sea of puddles and in no time flat my shoes were filled with Florida rain water. Never mind all that, neither wind nor rain nor dark of night can keep the park beast at bay! Like the rainstorm from my trip in 1990, this particular squall had done some park cleansing in the way of the crowds.

We grabbed a snack somewhere. (Sorry..it wasn’t on the video and I wasn’t a DIS’er then so I can’t tell you where it was or what we got.) We then headed to the Great Movie Ride. Don’t roll your eyes at me. Yeah, yeah, I know I swore to avoid it after the 2 hour wait from down under the last time I was here. BUT, with the park being emptied out a bit and considering Tracy had never been on it, I decided to give it a shot. It turned out to be a total walk on. It was great breezing our way through the place and arriving at a virtually empty loading dock.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm141.png

In no time at all we were off to the movies. I hoped that the alien would be working this time. It was not. In fact I never even saw it. I looked, but it was either removed, out for maintenance, covered up, or something. All I could see up there was, well, nothing. We got hijacked by a gangster, gangster got played by the driver, munchkins got scared by the witch, and we all lived happily ever after. (Or something like that anyway.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm238.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm321.jpg

Upon exiting the Great Movie Ride, I had to show Tracy the greatest benefit of an evening Disney monsoon. Walking onto Star Tours baby. Oh yeah! You know you saw it coming. How could I live with myself without sharing this rare jewel with my dearly betrothed? I mean seriously! This was a humanitarian mission for crying out loud.

Fortunately, she was a good sport about it and had no qualms with a return to space. (YAY!) There was one thing however that she wanted in return. We had missed the last showing of the Beauty and the Beast stage show (which I didn’t know existed until we saw it while roaming around looking for a snack) and she wanted to come back the next day to catch it. No problem. I’ll see your Belle, raise you an R2D2 and call. I’ll just amend the plan and make it happen baby!

After returning to earth, we had to decide what to do next. There wasn’t much left at MGM that held our interest, but we weren’t ready to go back to the resort yet either. It was then that the beast began forging a new battle plan; one which would maximize our park time and take advantage of our passes’ full potential.

Thanks to the wonderful bus schedule from our newly beloved Niki Bird, I knew that the Magic Kingdom was open late that night. And I knew that there would likely be a late showing of the Main Street Electrical Parade. (Imagine my surprise to discover it has been replaced by SpectroMagic…but that’s getting ahead of myself.) There was only one detail to work out. What we need here is some creative bus hopping.

Coming up on Episode 28 – What the carp happened to the castle???

Click Here for the Next Episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31322781&postcount=314)

chicagoshannon

04-10-2009, 09:12 AM

Glad you gave the Great Movie Ride another chance. I really love that ride.

I hope you and your family have a very Happy Easter!

PrincessV

04-10-2009, 09:56 AM

When the splash came, I tilted the camera 90 degrees so the lens was pointed straight down. I then pivoted to my left, and leaned towards my wife, selflessly blocking the spray with my ample posterior. This left the camera approximately level with her nose….pointed straight down. Just work through it for a minute.
:eek::rotfl: Ooops!

Cause, well, apparently the word “Studios” is simply a catchy title now, and not an actual description of what the place is used for.
:sad2: So true.

Ever have confetti land on you when you are sitting in high heat / high humidity weather? It not only sticks, it somehow melds onto your skin and defies removal.
Not exactly. But trust me - confetti mixed with spraying champagne has the same effect. :rolleyes:

Coming up on Episode 28 – What the carp happened to the castle???[/SIZE]
:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl: I was seriously just thinking "What year was this trip again?" when I got to this part. I know exactly what this is about and when now! ;)

Kimberly815

04-10-2009, 12:10 PM

Coming up on Episode 28 – What the carp happened to the castle???

OH NO!:lmao::rotfl2:

burly

04-10-2009, 01:47 PM

Oh i bet i know where this is going....popcorn::

GreatBiscuit

04-10-2009, 02:42 PM

Glad you gave the Great Movie Ride another chance. I really love that ride.Tracy really enjoyed it. I think I'd enjoy it more if I wasn't looking for the alien and obsessing over the queue size.

I hope you and your family have a very Happy Easter!Thanks! You too!

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl: I was seriously just thinking "What year was this trip again?" when I got to this part. I know exactly what this is about and when now! ;)

OH NO!:lmao::rotfl2:

Oh i bet i know where this is going....popcorn::

:scared1: :sad2: Yep...photos of the monstrosity coming soon!

GreatBiscuit

04-13-2009, 08:02 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, shows were enjoyed, rain fell freely and stars were once again toured. We had decided to head over to the Magic Kingdom to catch the late parade, but I was not exactly sure how to get there. However, I had hit upon a theory and we set out to put it to the test. The bus from the Nikki Bird serviced all three parks. (Remember AK was still being built) I knew that the stop order was: Disney MGM Studios, Epcot Center, Magic Kingdom.

My plan was to hop on aboard at MGM and hop off at MK. We headed out to the parking lot and after a 20 minute wait, our bus arrived. Figuring it was better to ask forgiveness than permission, I didn’t mention this particular plan to the driver. We managed to score a spot near the front and rode the loop. When we arrived at the MK, we headed out and hit up the TTC. Bus driver guy didn’t seem too fazed by it, so I guess it was all kosher.

As we were headed to the TTC, the fireworks began. We made our way down to the boat dock and caught the remainder of the show.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk1.jpg

Zooming in on the fireworks I noticed something. The castle…wasn’t right. There was something odd and unsettlingly pink about it. Is that? Did they actually?

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk2.jpg

SACRILEGE! HOLY CARP IS THAT EVER HIDDEOUS!

About the time I had finished gathering a mob and collecting torches to storm Imagineering, it was time to head across the lagoon, so we decided to see the parade instead. Since we were already on the boat dock, it seemed logical to take the boat that was preparing to depart as opposed to schlepping back up the hill to the monorail.

We took up position near the bow and the breeze felt nice as we made our way across the lagoon. I took up position at the very front of the boat and shot some video.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk4.jpg

Sad people leaving the MK.

My feet were kind of tingly down in my lovely wet shoes so I finally grabbed a seat. When the boat docked, we soon realized that we had a fight on our hands. From the boat dock, all the way to the tunnel was one giant sea of humanity; all facing us and all trying to squeeze as close to the boat or monorail as possible. I set my jaw, told Tracy to grab my shirt and we began our swim upstream.

I have to crack up sometimes at what people are thinking. Between the dock to the gate, we had three different people tell us we were going the wrong way. Thank you there Magellan, but I got this. When we finally made it through the crowds, we headed under the tunnel and arrived on Main Street.

Biscuit, you are home. Unfortunately while you were gone, some lunatic remodeled.
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk52.png

WHAT IN THE WORLD were they thinking?

I traded photo duties with Tracy and handed her the video camera while I broke out my 35mm SLR. It was feeling a bit neglected and needed to be used.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mknightcastle.jpg

We were a bit hungry at this point in time and used the balance of our cash to score a cookie at Main Street Bakery. We sat at a table outside and just watched folks wandering by. After a bit, we moved down to the curb and waited on the parade to start. We held hands, laughed about how crazy our trip had been thus far, and wondered what was still in store. Eventually the lights dimmed and the music began.

Hey, they changed the music.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkspectro.jpg

Hey they changed the floats.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkspectro2.jpg

Hey they changed the parade. Maybe I SHOULD have at least PIKCED UP a park guide.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkspectro3.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkspectro4.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkspectro5.jpg

When the parade was over, we did some browsing in the Emporium and soaked up the Main Street atmosphere. Eventually, we made our way back through the turnstiles and headed to the monorail for the return trip to the TTC. Luckily the crowds had thinned enough for everyone to have a seat.

Either I dozed off or the driver hit Mach 3 because it seemed like the doors closed and then immediately opened again. After a bit of meandering through the bus lot, I finally located our ride and we boarded happy yet weary from our day. My feet had gone from tingling to burning and I was happy to sit some more.

When we returned back to the motel, I went back to the room and grabbed my wallet from the safe (remembering the combination) while Tracy waited for me in the lobby. We then headed across the street and hit up Perkins again. Not so much because we really love it, but because it was close and we were tired. Our friend from the night before was not on duty, so after our customary sit & wait, we met our new server and ordered up something or other. (Sorry, can’t recall what we ate the second time around.)

I noticed when I paid that I was nearing the end of the cash, and thus it was time to break out the American Express Traveler’s Cheques. When we got back to the motel, I found the laundry room and threw my shoes in the dryer, then went to get the traveler’s cheques out of my backpack. Hmm…that’s funny. I thought I had them in the front pocket. Let’s see….not inside….not on the side…not in the overnight bag…not in the suitcase…not in the camera bag…not in the safe…where did I have those last?

Hmmm….I got them from the bank Monday morning, put them in my green duffle bag, drove to Kansas City, spent the night, left everything in the car except my green duffle bag (which was our KC overnight bag,) got up on Tue, drove to the airport, unloaded our Florida luggage and DOH! They’re in the duffle bag…in the trunk of my car at the KC Airport. Well isn’t that convenient?

Fortunately I had written down the cheque numbers and stuck them in the camera bag. I was pretty sure that I remembered from the Birnbaum's Guide I had bought for our 1990 trip that there was an AmEx desk at Epcot where I could file a claim and get them replaced. I called up AmEx and explained the situation to a woman who would have benefitted greatly from an increased fiber intake. Thirty some odd minutes later, she gave a reference number and confirmed there was an AmEx window at Epcot and that we could pick up our replacements after 1PM. Nifty. Biscuit is back in business baby.

Tracy was of course not surprised and unusually un-phased by the news of this latest mishap. I think by this point in time, she had maxed out her bewilderment quota. I apologized profusely and promised to make it up to her.

It was then that a thought occurred to me. Due to the profoundly odd circumstances of the past week, we had now had enough cash for a nice sit down meal. I decided to call WDW-DINE the next morning and inquire about the possibility of scoring a table at some place nice.

You know the old saying…the best laid plans of mice of men. But that’s getting ahead of myself. After all, before we get to that particularly joyous moment in time, we still have an entire morning at MGM.

Coming up on Episode 29 – Blisters, Bags and a Big Hairy Beast.

Click Here for the Next Episode!. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31377628&postcount=336)

Vexorg

04-13-2009, 08:28 PM

Your cadaverous pallor betrays an aura of forebodeing, almost as though you sense a disquieting metamorphosis... Is this magical castle actually pink, or is it just your imagination?

chicagoshannon

04-13-2009, 09:15 PM

I"m amazed at all of the mishaps you've had! I hope you're every day life is calmer!

GreatBiscuit

04-13-2009, 10:13 PM

Your cadaverous pallor betrays an aura of forebodeing, almost as though you sense a disquieting metamorphosis... Is this magical castle actually pink, or is it just your imagination? I think it was actually plaid, but my brain couldn't interpret.

I"m amazed at all of the mishaps you've had! I hope you're every day life is calmer! Thankfully it's not nearly that crazy on a day to day basis.

Backstage_Gal

04-13-2009, 10:50 PM

I am amazed at FLB's patience with your scatter brain, LOL. Good thing you made it enough to keep her around.

That castle was hideous, but even more so close up, where you could see all its plastic warts and wrinkles.

Can't wait to hear what goes wrong next, LOL>

brookelizabeth

04-14-2009, 01:42 AM

The Castle looked like it had stripes?! Weirddddd.

I was a few updates behind-but I'll just comment on this last one - I kinda laughed out loud (quietly, DH sleeping next to me!) at Tracy being completely unphased by the misplaces Travlers Checks. :rotfl: What else could go wrong for you two?! I hope not every trip in your lives are like this! :laughing:

Oh, and too bad about no Perkins! :sad2: Perkins is the ultimate MN teenage hangout. I logged so many hours in their booths...so many in fact, one of my close friends MARRIED a waiter from there! She only got to know him by our absurd amount of time spent there!

Kimberly815

04-14-2009, 10:40 AM

Ugh. That castle is awful! I am sorry that it was your wife's first view!

whogirl'smom

04-14-2009, 12:36 PM

I'm betting the first thing Tracy did when you returned home, was apply for a Visa! :rotfl: She has the patience of Job.

The picture of the castle is funny where you can tell everybody is leaving instead of going in. You usually have pictures of all backsides.

jcc0621

04-14-2009, 12:43 PM

The first time my DH ever went to Disney (with me in 1996) the castle was in that hideous state. I'm convinced that this is what prevents him from embracing Disney. I think it scarred him for life:sad2:

ashleypmo

04-14-2009, 12:55 PM

Completing our ride with the rat, and finding no tea in sight, we crossed the walkway and took a voyage 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. (Cheesy yet satisfying) This was the only time that I actually rode this attraction before it was conveniently turned into a field of grass. It’s kind of sad to pull up Google Earth and see it sitting there all empty. But, I digress.

Defeating the giant squid and safely returning from captivity on Captain Nemo’s “sea monster”, we took the incredibly long walk over to Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.
Click Here for Next Episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29791942&postcount=42)

I LOVED 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea! When my DH & I went back in 1990, I told him "Oh, you've GOT to ride this-- it's the BEST ride ever! I never noticed the severe cheese factor as a kid! Still think it was cool, though!

ashleypmo

04-14-2009, 01:45 PM

Finally we had the staple road food of each and every one of my remembered childhood trips….Chicken in a Biscuit crackers. (No, it had nothing to do with the choosing of my screen name.) We never really kept them at home but we ALWAYS had them when we traveled.

I have often wondered just exactly how they get the chicken into the biscuit. After all, we’ve been shown multiple television commercials which illustrate how they get the cheese into Cheese Nips, yet we are left in the dark on this particular process.

The now naked and dearly departed chickens then land in a hopper where they are fed through a “processing machine” which was created out of a concrete mixer and parts from a 1968 Ford Fairlane. After being fully adulterated, the meat is then cooked, dried, and ground into a powder.

Click Here for Next Episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30054053&postcount=82)

One of my most vivid memories of car trips as a kid is our travel food! Ooohh--and I love Chicken In A Biscuit crackers! Yummychickenygoodness!

HA--my parents brought me home from the hospital in a 1968 Ford Fairlane...which makes me...;)not tellin!

ashleypmo

04-14-2009, 02:24 PM

A simple, silly rhyme, with only two words repeating. Perhaps you know it. The two words are veggie and fruit. Ring a bell? Dinner bell perhaps?

No? Perhaps an AV demonstration would be in order. Check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLez_BOl_bs

Click here for next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30380146&postcount=133)

Know it? Dude--I've got it on VIDEO! No joke! My kids watch it and there like " Whaaaa----???"

Okay, I've gotta take a break from your trippie & put a baby down for nap. Plus, I'm kinda monopolizin' the reply button here!

Seriously lovin' your writing, and I'm every bit as excited to keep reading and find out how God's plan unfolds over the course of this TR as I am to read more about your trips! DH has been through his share of telcom layoffs--God is good, soul Brotha!

GreatBiscuit

04-14-2009, 02:36 PM

I am amazed at FLB's patience with your scatter brain, LOL. Good thing you made it enough to keep her around. I’m pretty amazed myself. Lets just say that the this particular personality trait would be frequented often during our…um….marital discussions.

That castle was hideous, but even more so close up, where you could see all its plastic warts and wrinkles. YIKES! Warts even!

Can't wait to hear what goes wrong next, LOL> If I were naming each trip, this one would be “How NOT to plan a Disneymoon”

The Castle looked like it had stripes?! Weirddddd. Trust me it was REALLY bizarre.

I was a few updates behind-but I'll just comment on this last one - I kinda laughed out loud (quietly, DH sleeping next to me!) at Tracy being completely unphased by the misplaces Travlers Checks. :rotfl: What else could go wrong for you two?! I hope not every trip in your lives are like this! :laughing: Fortunately I learned from my mistakes and our subsequent journeys went much more smoothly.

Oh, and too bad about no Perkins! :sad2: Perkins is the ultimate MN teenage hangout. I logged so many hours in their booths...so many in fact, one of my close friends MARRIED a waiter from there! She only got to know him by our absurd amount of time spent there! Not that’s funny! My father in law and his buddies eat breakfast at Perkins EVERY Saturday. One day, they had a new cook and they kept sending their bacon back, requesting “extra crispy”. Finally, my father in law went back into the kitchen and showed the cook how to make bacon the way they liked it.

Ugh. That castle is awful! I am sorry that it was your wife's first view! Fortunately she had been once in the summer of When we compared notes, we figured out she and her family took a day trip to the MK the same summer I took my first trip 1987. (It’s possible we were there the same day. Neither of us remembers the exact dates of our trip….kinda makes you go hmmmm.)

I'm betting the first thing Tracy did when you returned home, was apply for a Visa! :rotfl: She has the patience of Job. What’s funny is she had one, but we just didn’t bring it. I agree on the patience. I COULD NOT do her job. One morning in her classroom is enough to make me find a corner, suck my thumb, and rock back and forth.

The picture of the castle is funny where you can tell everybody is leaving instead of going in. You usually have pictures of all backsides. I never thought of that before, but now you that mention it, it is kinda funny.

The first time my DH ever went to Disney (with me in 1996) the castle was in that hideous state. I'm convinced that this is what prevents him from embracing Disney. I think it scarred him for life:sad2: LOL….that would be enough to scare ANYBODY off.

I LOVED 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea! When my DH & I went back in 1990, I told him "Oh, you've GOT to ride this-- it's the BEST ride ever! I never noticed the severe cheese factor as a kid! Still think it was cool, though! :welcome: Glad you found your way over! There was just something nifty about that ride. Can’t put my finger on it.

One of my most vivid memories of car trips as a kid is our travel food! Ooohh--and I love Chicken In A Biscuit crackers! Yummychickenygoodness!

HA--my parents brought me home from the hospital in a 1968 Ford Fairlane...which makes me...;)not tellin! LOVE CIB Crackers. Last summer, Tracy and I took the girls on a 2 day trip and I brought a box along. Of course I was the only one who ate them, but that’s okay. I’m still bringing a box this summer, cause you don’t mess with tradition.
.
Know it? Dude--I've got it on VIDEO! No joke! My kids watch it and there like " Whaaaa----???" AWESOME! I’ve taught it to my 6 and 5 year old daughters and we sing it constantly in the car now. (First Lady Biscuit just LOVES me for that one.)

Okay, I've gotta take a break from your trippie & put a baby down for nap. Plus, I'm kinda monopolizin' the reply button here! It’s all good!

Seriously lovin' your writing, and I'm every bit as excited to keep reading and find out how God's plan unfolds over the course of this TR as I am to read more about your trips! DH has been through his share of telcom layoffs--God is good, soul Brotha! Thanks! So glad to have you aboard! God is definitely good. We have weathered the layoffs and are humming along just fine.

Mrs. The King

04-14-2009, 04:23 PM

Ever have confetti land on you when you are sitting in high heat / high humidity weather? It not only sticks, it somehow melds onto your skin and defies removal.
:cool1: I need to invent a a sweaty confetti remover spatula. I can charge big bucks at Disney. :cool1:

By the time the rain settled back into a sprinkle, my inner park beast could no longer be contained. It was time to set out. The ground was a sea of puddles and in no time flat my shoes were filled with Florida rain water. Never mind all that, neither wind nor rain nor dark of night can keep the park beast at bay!

When my inner park beast can't be contained, I head to the ladies turlet. :eek:

In no time at all we were off to the movies. I hoped that the alien would be working this time. It was not. In fact I never even saw it.

I forgot to tell you I got all Ninja on the Alien in that ride. I was riding back circa somewhere between 1972 and 1995, when my ride was hijacked. When they took me through the Alien scene, I was on high alert. I grabbed my spinning light up Mickey head parade flair encourager and plunged it into the offending creature when it scared the carp out of me. I got mildly electrocuted. But to this day I am proud for saving the people in my vehicle. So you are welcome. :welcome:

SACRILEGE! HOLY CARP IS THAT EVER HIDDEOUS!

You are throwing some strong words around young man :sad2:

I have to crack up sometimes at what people are thinking. Between the dock to the gate, we had three different people tell us we were going the wrong way. Thank you there Magellan, but I got this. When we finally made it through the crowds, we headed under the tunnel and arrived on Main Street.

That made me LOL. :lmao::lmao:

Biscuit, you are home. Unfortunately while you were gone, some lunatic remodeled.

:rotfl:

We held hands, laughed about how crazy our trip had been thus far, and wondered what was still in store.

Aww. Like Wall-e and Eva. :goodvibes

Pooh's-Honey-Pot

04-14-2009, 05:01 PM

Just found your report and really enjoying it! Just marking my page to finish reading at work tomorrow!!

ashleypmo

04-14-2009, 05:08 PM

DH & I ate at GILLIGAN's in 1989. We were sooo broke, and limited ourselves to one "nice" meal. I saw Gilligan's advertised in the in-room magazine at our hotel--it featured a traditionally-clad chef standing in front of a beautiful seafood spread, crab, lobster, oysters all overflowing from silver platters, a beautiful stained glass window behind him.:snooty: And all for $14.99 a person--sign me up!

We get there and the place was....not as advertised.:sad2: Had I not seen the fancy-schmancy spread in the mag, I'da probably been okay with it. But I was....nonplussed (shouldn't we just say 'minused?' Ask your Dad about that one. Bein' a math guy, I'd like to know what he thinks).

So we go up to the buffet, and the selections are (according to the man holding the tongs--who was NOT wearing no traditional-chef-nuttin): Fried grouper, lemon grouper, sauteed grouper, grouper scampi, and I went into a fog at this point and didn't really hear what he said next, only I'm pretty sure it started with a "gr" and ended with an "ouper."

burly

04-15-2009, 01:44 AM

Yea. I remember THAT castle. Oh how i tried to like it and justify it. :confused3 Just kept my head down...... ah tomorrowland....kind of like that.:laughing:
HIDEOUS.

GreatBiscuit

04-15-2009, 06:28 PM

:cool1: I need to invent a a sweaty confetti remover spatula. I can charge big bucks at Disney. :cool1: Rock on! That'd be a seller for sure.

I forgot to tell you I got all Ninja on the Alien in that ride. I was riding back circa somewhere between 1972 and 1995, when my ride was hijacked. When they took me through the Alien scene, I was on high alert. I grabbed my spinning light up Mickey head parade flair encourager and plunged it into the offending creature when it scared the carp out of me. I got mildly electrocuted. But to this day I am proud for saving the people in my vehicle. So you are welcome. :welcome: :worship: Hail the conquering hero!

You are throwing some strong words around young man :sad2: Fortunately I stopped myself before breaking out the really big Biscuitisms.

Aww. Like Wall-e and Eva. :goodvibes DOH! Now I've got "Sunday Clothes" stuck in my head!

Just found your report and really enjoying it! Just marking my page to finish reading at work tomorrow!! Hi and Welcome! :welcome: Glad to have you aboard!

DH & I ate at GILLIGAN's in 1989. We were sooo broke, and limited ourselves to one "nice" meal. I saw Gilligan's advertised in the in-room magazine at our hotel--it featured a traditionally-clad chef standing in front of a beautiful seafood spread, crab, lobster, oysters all overflowing from silver platters, a beautiful stained glass window behind him.:snooty: And all for $14.99 a person--sign me up!

We get there and the place was....not as advertised.:sad2: Had I not seen the fancy-schmancy spread in the mag, I'da probably been okay with it. But I was....nonplussed (shouldn't we just say 'minused?' Ask your Dad about that one. Bein' a math guy, I'd like to know what he thinks).

So we go up to the buffet, and the selections are (according to the man holding the tongs--who was NOT wearing no traditional-chef-nuttin): Fried grouper, lemon grouper, sauteed grouper, grouper scampi, and I went into a fog at this point and didn't really hear what he said next, only I'm pretty sure it started with a "gr" and ended with an "ouper."I'd be a bit miffed myself. I don't remember an all grouper menu, but it's been so long ago, that I can't say for sure what all I had.

Yea. I remember THAT castle. Oh how i tried to like it and justify it. :confused3 Just kept my head down...... ah tomorrowland....kind of like that.:laughing:
HIDEOUS. Just keep swimming, just keep swimming.

My2Qtz0205

04-15-2009, 09:41 PM

:lmao::rotfl::laughing: I am rolling just reading the replies on the last two pages of your TR. I have to go back and read the whole thing now.:cutie:

GreatBiscuit

04-16-2009, 04:12 PM

:lmao::rotfl::laughing: I am rolling just reading the replies on the last two pages of your TR. I have to go back and read the whole thing now.:cutie: Welcome! :welcome: Glad you found your way over! There are definitely some awesome readers here and I love reading all the cool and funny posts they come up with.

joleen76

04-16-2009, 05:45 PM

Zooming in on the fireworks I noticed something. The castle…wasn’t right. There was something odd and unsettlingly pink about it. Is that? Did they actually?

I have seen pictures of the pepto castle (as I like to call it). I still wonder what they were thinking!

SACRILEGE! HOLY CARP IS THAT EVER HIDDEOUS!

I couldn't agree more!

My feet were kind of tingly down in my lovely wet shoes so I finally grabbed a seat.

Don't you hate when your toes turn into prunes? That's what we call it in our house, and for some reason when your at Disney and have wet feet your socks decide they need to imbed themselves in your toes. Removing your socks is like removing a layer of skin that actually feels really good after a few min's. :lmao:

When the boat docked, we soon realized that we had a fight on our hands. From the boat dock, all the way to the tunnel was one giant sea of humanity; all facing us and all trying to squeeze as close to the boat or monorail as possible. I set my jaw, told Tracy to grab my shirt and we began our swim upstream.

It's like stergeon swimming up stream to spawn! :rotfl:

I have to crack up sometimes at what people are thinking. Between the dock to the gate, we had three different people tell us we were going the wrong way.

I love to respond to these people in kind. I think I would have responded with "this is the way to the secret exit" and keep walking faster while they contemplate if I was kidding or not!

Biscuit, you are home. Unfortunately while you were gone, some lunatic remodeled.

It's like in my wayward youth and a friend had a party while their parents were out of town and they come home to a disaster!

Either I dozed off or the driver hit Mach 3 because it seemed like the doors closed and then immediately opened again.

It's to bad we are so much bigger than our kids are. I wish just once I could continue sleeping and somehow magically appear in my bed. Yet another thing as kids we took for granted!

After a bit of meandering through the bus lot, I finally located our ride and we boarded happy yet weary from our day. My feet had gone from tingling to burning and I was happy to sit some more.

Yes as you get older your memory goes along with your sense of direction and memory for safe codes!

When we returned back to the motel, I went back to the room and grabbed my wallet from the safe (remembering the combination) while Tracy waited for me in the lobby.

YAY! That power nap really worked! :thumbsup2

Coming up on Episode 29 – Blisters, Bags and a Big Hairy Beast.[/B]

LOL I love this title can't wait to see what comes next!

Great installment as always!

GreatBiscuit

04-16-2009, 08:36 PM

I have seen pictures of the pepto castle (as I like to call it). I still wonder what they were thinking! Pepto...llike it :thumbsup2

I Don't you hate when your toes turn into prunes? That's what we call it in our house, and for some reason when your at Disney and have wet feet your socks decide they need to imbed themselves in your toes. Removing your socks is like removing a layer of skin that actually feels really good after a few min's. :lmao: I'm telling you, that rain about did me in.

I love to respond to these people in kind. I think I would have responded with "this is the way to the secret exit" and keep walking faster while they contemplate if I was kidding or not!

It's to bad we are so much bigger than our kids are. I wish just once I could continue sleeping and somehow magically appear in my bed. Yet another thing as kids we took for granted!
I know that's right. My daughter amazes me every morning. I can get her up, giver her a bath, dress her, put her in the car and driver her to school and she sleeps through it all. I'd love to just wake up everymorning at work, completely dressed and ready to go.

Yes as you get older your memory goes along with your sense of direction and memory for safe codes!:lmao:

I love this title can't wait to see what comes next! Great installment as always!Thanks! I appreciate you reading along.

I'll be updating in a little bit.

GreatBiscuit

04-16-2009, 09:31 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, creative park hopping was invoked, parades were viewed, and Traveler’s Cheques failed to travel.

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HE’S BACK! SECURITYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!

Day four of our Honeymoon arrived and I again woke up early and fell back to sleep. I did manage to have a little more time getting ready this morning. Since we had the possibility of table service dining in our future, I gave some thought about where to go. There was one place that came to mind. The Corral Reef. I had seen photos of it in Birnbaum’s and REALLY wanted to eat there.

There was only one slight issue with this. Tracy does not like seafood. And when I say does not like, I mean she hates it. I on the other hand love, Love, LOVE seafood so once a year (on my birthday) Tracy accompanies me to a seafood joint. Around here, if you want seafood you have two choices: Long John Silvers or Red Lobster. I choose the latter. Not only cause they got some tasty crab legs, but also because their Cheddar Bay Biscuits are da bomb. They can also cook a reasonable steak which makes Tracy happy.

When I called up Disney Dining, I inquired as to the non-seafood selections available to us at the Reef. The nice lady on the other end of the phone assured me that there was a BROAD selection of non-seafood items to fit any taste. I made a Priority Seating Request for sometime around 2:00 PM. This optimistic error in judgment would lead to my worst Walt Disney World memory of all time. But that’s getting ahead of myself. That will be a story for the next episode.

After sealing my fate, it was time to head out the door. I grabbed the cameras and we were off. I noticed right away that my feet were still not happy from their hours spent in soggy shoes. They were even less thrilled to be pressed into service for another day of Disney Park Hopping.

We scored a spot on the bus and headed back to the Disney MGM Studios. When we arrived, I happened to look to the right and caught a glimpse of a sign pointing the way to the boat dock. I noticed it said Epcot on it and inquired of the cast member at the turnstile. He advised me we could take a boat to the International Gateway. Awesome! One transportation dilemma solved!

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Once we made it into the park, we caught a marching band winding their way down the street and a convertible toting Sally Struthers. I’m not really sure what the point was or what exactly Disney thought the draw would be for guests to stand on a curb and watch Sally Struthers go rolling by, but they didn’t ask me.

I picked up a show schedule for the day and saw we had some time to kill before even thinking about making our way to see Beauty and the Beast. Fortunately the weather was beautiful this morning.

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Tracy and I had each located a souvenir we wanted the day before while browsing. After taking a quick stroll through Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind, a shop we missed the day before, we headed to the Darkroom. I picked up a new neck strap for my camera which looked like a black and white film strip of Mickey Mouse.

This transaction completed successfully, we headed a little further down the street to what I believe was Mickey's of Hollywood. There Tracy picked up a necklace that had a charm on it shaped like a classic Mickey Ears hat.

We still had time to kill and decided to hit up the Great Movie Ride again. I don’t really know why, except that it was close and there was hardly any line at all. Of course once we were done, it was mandatory that we ensure the safety of those traveling to Endor. You may as well stamp it down now that Biscuit don’t set foot in the Studios Formerly Known as MGM without taking a ride on Star Tours.

By this time, my feet had gone from protesting to shouting. I really NEEDED a break. It was nearly show time so we headed towards Sunset Boulevard.

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We located the theater and found seats about 1/3 of the way back and near the edge of the center aisle. SCORE! I pulled off my shoes, sorry I’m a hillbilly at heart, and was alarmed to discover a rather large blister forming on the back of my heel. OH JOY. That’ll be fun to deal with. I left my shoes off the rest of the show. (Thankfully the foot affliction of my teenage years had since past or we’d have had a whole row to ourselves.

We got to enjoy the pre-show with what may or may not have been Four for a Dollar. (I really don’t remember.)

Like Hunchback, this show pretty well follows the storyline of the movie. I took lots of photos. (Not sure why, but I was having fun.)

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Arrrrgh! I’m a big hairy beast! But I Luuuuuuuuuuuuv you baby!

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Once the show was over, we decided to take one more run through the Animation building. This time it was hustling and bustling with animators and we got to see lots of cells being done for Mulan.

When we came out of the animation building, the bright blue skies had an ominous grey tinge to them. We really gotta stop going into that place. It’s like some sort of atmospheric vortex of doom.

Fortunately it was not yet raining, so for the moment we were dry. We made our way back to the front gates and did a bit more shopping on the way. We picked up some sort of odd and ends stuff for each of our sisters. I don’t recall specifics, but I remember some sort of discussion as to whether my sisters had pierced ears, and if so, were they double pierced.

Now at the time, I was reasonably sure that both of my sisters had ears, but as to the presence and quantity of man made holes in said lobes, I was clueless. This just isn’t the sort of statistic I keep track of. If First Lady Biscuit had asked me how many Superbowls the Dallas Cowboys had won, or how many Texans defended the Alamo, (you know… useful stuff) we’d be good. We wound up with something for each of them and moved on to parentals.

I THINK I got my mom some Disney MGM Studios salt and pepper shakers to add to her collection. I can’t say for sure though as her salt and pepper shaker collection has not been unpacked yet since my parent’s last move….9 years ago. No need to rush these things you know. (Love you Mom)

Tracy’s mom collects those tiny silver spoons, but we didn’t see any she liked. By the way, have you ever noticed that those things are really hard to eat with? I mean seriously it takes like five of them to get a descent bite of chili. Plus I have to pry that glass case open every time we visit my in-laws just to get em out.

At some point we also splurged and picked up two Mickey rain panchos. (With the way they skies were darkening up, it seemed only a matter of time before they were needed.)

By the time we were done, I had a rather impressive allotment of bags to schlep around the rest of the day, along with my camera bag. Good thing I’m part pack mule. AND I’m happy to report that I didn’t lose track of a single bag all day. But having done it that way, I have to tell you that one of the on-property perks I’m most looking forward to is package delivery.

All in all, I’d say this particular morning was probably our most successful park outing of the entire trip.

Soon we headed out the gates and towards the boat dock to catch the next launch for Epcot Center. It turns out that getting to the park would not be a problem. Getting in, well that was going to be a completely different story.

Coming up on Episode 30, “What do you mean my Park Hopper’s invalid?”

Click Here for the Next Episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31440337&postcount=349)

chicagoshannon

04-16-2009, 09:44 PM

Sally Struthers :rotfl2::rotfl2: That's even better then Nancey Kerrigan :thumbsup2

:thumbsup2 for not losing any packages.

My mom collects those spoons too. Because of this I always have an easy time getting her a souvenir anywhere we go.

PrincessV

04-17-2009, 08:47 AM

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OW, my eyes, my eyes!!!! :faint: :rotfl:

Stupidest. Disney. Move. EVER. :sad2:

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HE’S BACK! SECURITYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!
:lmao:

I made a Priority Seating Request for sometime around 2:00 PM. This optimistic error in judgment would lead to my worst Walt Disney World memory of all time. But that’s getting ahead of myself. That will be a story for next Thursday’s episode.
:headache: Tease!

Once we made it into the park, we caught a marching band winding their way down the street and a convertible toting Sally Struthers. I’m not really sure what the point was or what exactly Disney thought the draw would be for guests stand and a curb and watch Sally Struthers go rolling by, but they didn’t ask me.
:rotfl2: I forgot about that - they used to parade a pseudo-celebrity down the street each day!

All in all, I’d say this particular morning was probably our most successful park outing of the entire trip.
:goodvibes

Kimberly815

04-17-2009, 10:25 AM

Great update! What a fun morning!

Soon we headed out the gates and towards the boat dock to catch the next launch for Epcot Center. It turns out that getting to the park would not be a problem. Getting in, well that was going to be a completely different story.

Coming up on Episode 30, “What do you mean my Park Hopper’s invalid?”

Oh no! I guess we should have expected this after such a successful morning!

GreatBiscuit

04-17-2009, 02:37 PM

Sally Struthers :rotfl2::rotfl2: That's even better then Nancey Kerrigan :thumbsup2 Aint it though?

My mom collects those spoons too. Because of this I always have an easy time getting her a souvenir anywhere we go. Good point!

:rotfl2: I forgot about that - they used to parade a pseudo-celebrity down the street each day! Now that's one Disney tradition I am not sad to see go.

Great update! What a fun morning! Thanks! We did have a good time.

Oh no! I guess we should have expected this after such a successful morning!
Murphy's Law would not have allowed otherwise.

brookelizabeth

04-18-2009, 05:04 PM

Not that’s funny! My father in law and his buddies eat breakfast at Perkins EVERY Saturday. One day, they had a new cook and they kept sending their bacon back, requesting “extra crispy”. Finally, my father in law went back into the kitchen and showed the cook how to make bacon the way they liked it.

That is AWESOME. :rotfl:

Uh-oh on the blister and the invalid :scared1: Park Hopper! I have to say, I'm looking forward to the adventure (misadventure) at Coral Reef...I forsee something really not good happening with this...! But, then again, what has gone RIGHT so far? :laughing:

Tracy's necklace sounds really cute! I wonder if they still sell something similar...

Disneymom3304

04-19-2009, 04:44 PM

WOW you really know how to keep a person hanging on! I keep coming back. It took me 3 days but I am finally caught up and can't wait to read how the rest of this honeymoon plays out. Also can't wait to read about your up coming trip too. Disney as adults (well as close as we can get to adults) and then Disney with kids so very different and so wonderful too!

GBShorts

04-19-2009, 09:41 PM

I think I am quite possibly the latest joiner EVER to a trip report, but here I am!

I had one of THOSE days where there's nothing to do but read trip reports and live vicariously through people...

I just sat here and read all your installments. I can't wait to read the next one-thanks for sharing your trip with us!

GreatBiscuit

04-19-2009, 10:44 PM

Uh-oh on the blister and the invalid :scared1: Park Hopper! I have to say, I'm looking forward to the adventure (misadventure) at Coral Reef...I forsee something really not good happening with this...! But, then again, what has gone RIGHT so far? :laughing: It's such a riot when we tell our Disneymoon story because people always think we're exagerating. Unfortunately, in this case, truth was stranger than fiction.

Tracy's necklace sounds really cute! I wonder if they still sell something similar... I'm not sure...I'll try to snap a photo of it and add it to my next post.

WOW you really know how to keep a person hanging on! I keep coming back. It took me 3 days but I am finally caught up and can't wait to read how the rest of this honeymoon plays out. Also can't wait to read about your up coming trip too. Disney as adults (well as close as we can get to adults) and then Disney with kids so very different and so wonderful too!:welcome: Glad to have you here! I just can not WAIT until I experience Disney as a daddy.

I think I am quite possibly the latest joiner EVER to a trip report, but here I am!

I had one of THOSE days where there's nothing to do but read trip reports and live vicariously through people...

I just sat here and read all your installments. I can't wait to read the next one-thanks for sharing your trip with us!:welcome: I've had those days myself! That's some crazy reading in one sitting! (I'm at 98 pages in MS word.) I'm glad you enjoyed it! I always update on Mondays and Thursdays. (Knocking on Wood)

Backstage_Gal

04-19-2009, 11:19 PM

GreatBiscuit

04-19-2009, 11:35 PM

Hi GB, just wanted you to know I am still here and still reading. Great job as always. Life just got a bit busy. Starting new job tomorrow after reorg.

I'll be here tomorrow night for the next installment!
Hey Marita! Thanks for reading along. I hope you have a great day tomorrow. I know starting a new position is always tough. It was quite an adjustment when I moved from Tier II Tech to Public Safety/CNS. I'm glad you weathered the layoffs. I you ever have to call in an after hours outage, I may get to give you a shoutout.

chicagoshannon

04-20-2009, 08:14 AM

It's Monday! That means another episode. Can't wait!

GreatBiscuit

04-20-2009, 09:14 PM

It's Monday! That means another episode. Can't wait! On the way!

GreatBiscuit

04-20-2009, 09:16 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, blisters were discovered, souvenirs were purchased, shows were enjoyed and the skies threatened rain. When last we left our weary travelers, Tracy and I had just exited the gates of the Disney MGM Studios. We bore to the left and descended the ramp to the boat dock.

At the time, this particular mode of transport was either unknown or deemed undesirable. When are arrived at the dock, we were the only ones there. For some time I wondered if I had mixed up the instructions or if the boats were perhaps not running. Eventually we were joined by another couple and figured if we WERE lost, at least we’d have company.

(Speaking of Lost, is anyone else out there wondering what happened to Rose and Bernard? But, I digress.)

We soon heard the happy toots of a ferry heading our way. No, Tinkerbell was not flatulent, it was a yellow Friendship coming in to dock. When the boat pulled up, they began by unloading the passengers. (Maybe 5 or 6.) They then allowed those of us waiting on the dock to board. (All four of us.)

I was happy to be seated again as my feet were beginning to protest more and more as time went by. (Or as we say in Texas, “Muh dogs were barkin”) We soon set out at a remarkably slow pace through a nifty little canal. I don’t know if they’ve readdressed the policy of the cruising speed for these things, but I think I could have walked to Epcot and back in the time it took us to make this journey. BUT, given the state of my hooves at the time, sitting in a ridiculously slow moving boat was actually a welcome rest,

About the time we were half way to the Swan and Dolphin, the rain started. By the time we were up to them, it was torrential. I was then EXTREMELY glad to be inside the cabin, dry and seated. This particular band of rain was fast moving and by the time we docked at the Boardwalk it had passed.

When we got out at the Boardwalk to change boats, I was in complete shock. I had NO IDEA that any of this were here. The Boardwalk, Yacht Club and Beach Club were completely unknown to me. I didn’t even know what any of it was called, much less what any of it was. We had a few moments before the next boat arrive to bring us on the remainder of our journey. We walked about a bit and tried to take in all the different sights and sounds. (Not possible to do in a few minutes time.)

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Soon there were more toots being lofted in our general direction, and it was time to hop into the next Friendship. We got to see some more of the different resorts as we pulled away and headed toward the Epcot International Gateway.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mgm221.png

We lucked out again in that it rained on the way and was done by the time we arrived. Hey, maybe our luck is changing! We soon docked, with this portion of the journey being MUCH quicker than the first. Tracy was the first one through the turnstiles and when I tried to go through, I got a red light. The dreaded, the feared, the cursed red light.

The cast member then said “I’m sorry sir, this ticket is invalid.” Come again? I advised the nice lady that this was a four day park hopper and I was only on my second day of hopping. I then showed her my hand stamp from MGM (which was more of a UV smudge.) She called over a supervisor of some sort, who examined the ticket, examined my hand, declared us legal and advise us that we needed to go STRAIGHT to guest services, get a new ticket and then return to have it scanned.

Joy.

Okay, how do I get there?

We headed into the general direction they indicated and immediately ignored his instructions. Our first stop was NOT in fact guest services, it was the gift shop just inside the park. (World Traveler now, not sure if that was what it was called then or not.) It was here that Tracy found the elusive souvenir spoon and I found a lovely Mickey Keychain which I used until it literally disintegrated.

When the Epcot SWAT Team failed to storm the store, we figured we were pretty safe from chastisement. Yet, in the interest of wanting to come back the next day, we did begin our march towards guest services. When we finally made our way in, I handed my faulty ticket to the cast member. I was prepared to lay out the woes and horrors we had gone through over the past couple of days, but fortunately, it wasn’t necessary. Within a couple of minutes, he had it fixed, wished us well and off we went. It was too easy. Well, maybe I was wrong about being wrong about our luck changing.

At that time the American Express office was in the entrance court outside of the main gate. We had our hands dutifully re-stamped and headed over to get our replacements. After advising the lady of our needs and giving her our AmEx confirmation number we had a seat. And waited… I had images of time share offices dancing through my head. Eventually we were called back up and handed an envelope with our replacement cheques, each of which had to be signed. Then there was a series of paperwork that also had to be signed.

Finally, we were able to high tail it out of there and headed back into the park. My new friend in guest services had gotten the job done and I was able to enter with no problems. We had missed our Priority Seating window, but I figured we could at least try to still get in.

A nice CM greeted us just inside the gates and offered to take our pics with my camera. HOORAY! Things ARE getting better.

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After the obligatory gawk at the golf ball’s underside we headed to the Living Seas Pavilion with all due haste. I see myself now, walking arm and arm with my love. Happy to be at my favorite place and anxious to treat her to the special lunch she deserved. If I ever get my hands on a flux capacitor and a DeLorean DMC 12, I’m setting the time date to July 18th, 1997, running it up to 88 miles per hour, and when I arrive in the past, I’m going to jump out of the bushes in front of the Living Seas just as my younger self is come up the walk and scream “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!”

Yep…that’s what I’m gonna do alright.

Coming up on Episode 31 “My Worst WDW Memory of All Time”

Click here for the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31495501&postcount=360)

chicagoshannon

04-20-2009, 09:34 PM

Backstage_Gal

04-20-2009, 10:44 PM

When we got out at the Boardwalk to change boats, I was in complete shock. I had NO IDEA that any of this were here. The Boardwalk, Yacht Club and Beach Club were completely unknown to me. I didn’t even know what any of it was called, much less what all it was. We had a few moments before the next boat arrive to bring us on the remainder of our journey. We walked about a bit and tried to take in all the different sights and sounds. (Not possible to do in a few minutes time.)

I remember working at Epcot in 1995, working on the boat schedules, LOL.
BW was still under construction.

If I ever get my hands on a flux capacitor and a DeLorean DMC 12, I’m setting the time date to July 18th, 1997, running it up to 88 miles per hour, and when I arrive in the past, I’m going to jump out of the bushes in front of the Living Seas just as my younger self is come up the walk and scream “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!”

Yep…that’s what I’m gonna do alright.

Now, I totally get the returning to the past thing. Happy times, all that. :love:

But my feeble brain does NOT remember the "unclean" reference.
Great update as always, I love your reports.
Cant wait to hear what happens this summer :rolleyes1

Coming up on Episode 31 “My Worst WDW Memory of All Time”

Can't wait!

PrincessV

04-21-2009, 11:06 AM

I don’t know if they’ve readdressed the policy of the cruising speed for these things,
That's a negative GB. :sad2: And...
but I think I could have walked to Epcot and back in the time it took us to make this journey.
Ye-ep! :rotfl:

When we got out at the Boardwalk to change boats, I was in complete shock. I had NO IDEA that any of this were here. The Boardwalk, Yacht Club and Beach Club were completely unknown to me. I didn’t even know what any of it was called, much less what all it was.
:goodvibes I miss that element of surprise, finding something or some place completely new at WDW!

If I ever get my hands on a flux capacitor and a DeLorean DMC 12, I’m setting the time date to July 18th, 1997, running it up to 88 miles per hour, and when I arrive in the past, I’m going to jump out of the bushes in front of the Living Seas just as my younger self is come up the walk and scream “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!”
Okay, I'm :rotfl2::thumbsup2 the flux capacitor mention, but :scared: of just what was "unclean"!!!!

Kimberly815

04-21-2009, 11:36 AM

(Speaking of Lost, is anyone else out there wondering what happened to Rose and Bernard? But, I digress.)

I ask myself this same question every week! I am dying to know!

The Boardwalk, Yacht Club and Beach Club were completely unknown to me. I didn’t even know what any of it was called, much less what all it was. We had a few moments before the next boat arrive to bring us on the remainder of our journey. We walked about a bit and tried to take in all the different sights and sounds. (Not possible to do in a few minutes time.)

I love this area, but have not been able to spend enough time there to really enjoy it yet! Someday I will have to stay at one of those resorts.

If I ever get my hands on a flux capacitor and a DeLorean DMC 12, I’m setting the time date to July 18th, 1997, running it up to 88 miles per hour, and when I arrive in the past, I’m going to jump out of the bushes in front of the Living Seas just as my younger self is come up the walk and scream “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!”

Oh no!

jcc0621

04-21-2009, 12:55 PM

I don’t know if they’ve readdressed the policy of the cruising speed for these things, but I think I could have walked to Epcot and back in the time it took us to make this journey.

Nope...it's still a three hour tour!

When we finally made our way in, I handed my faulty ticket to the cast member. I was prepared to lay out the woes and horrors we had gone through over the past couple of days, but fortunately, it wasn’t necessary. Within a couple of minutes, he had it fixed, wished us well and off we went. It was too easy. Well, maybe I was wrong about being wrong about our luck changing.

Glad they got that straightened out:thumbsup2

At that time the American Express office was in the entrance court outside of the main gate. We had our hands dutifully re-stamped and headed over to get our replacements. After advising the lady of our needs and giving her our AmEx confirmation number we had a seat. And waited… I had images of time share offices dancing through my head. Eventually we were called back up and handed an envelope with our replacement cheques, each of which had to be signed. Then there was a series of paperwork that also had to be signed.

And this!

I see myself now, walking arm and arm with my love. Happy to be at my favorite place and anxious to treat her to the special lunch she deserved. If I ever get my hands on a flux capacitor and a DeLorean DMC 12, I’m setting the time date to July 18th, 1997, running it up to 88 miles per hour, and when I arrive in the past, I’m going to jump out of the bushes in front of the Living Seas just as my younger self is come up the walk and scream “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!”

Yep…that’s what I’m gonna do alright.

Coming up on Episode 31 “My Worst WDW Memory of All Time”

:scared1::eek::scared1::eek:popcorn::

whogirl'smom

04-21-2009, 02:45 PM

"toots of a ferry" :rotfl2:

I can't even imagine what's in store in the next chapter! :scared1:

GreatBiscuit

04-21-2009, 03:41 PM

Great update! Glad the ticket got straightened out quickly!

As for Rose and Bernard. I have no idea. I hope we find out this season what happened to them but I"m not holding my breath. Maybe they were killed by the flamind arrows. The actress that plays Rose is on a show on ABC Family called Secret Life of the American Teenager.

Interesting..I had wondered about the flaming arrows.

That's a negative GB. :sad2: And...Ye-ep! :rotfl: Well, I guess if I need an nice quite rest but don't want to go to back to the resort, I know where to go.

:goodvibes I miss that element of surprise, finding something or some place completely new at WDW! It was a pretty cool surprise.

I ask myself this same question every week! I am dying to know! I swear I have a love/hate relationship with that show. I never watched it before I started working the night & weekend shif a year ago. On Saturdays, we used to sometimes go hours between calls, so after watching the first two episodes online, I bought Seasons 1-4 on DVD. It's a LOT harder to have to wait a week or two between episodes! Drives me crazy sometimes.

I love this area, but have not been able to spend enough time there to really enjoy it yet! Someday I will have to stay at one of those resorts.
I hope to spend some time here this summer. IF the little pastries will comply.

Nope...it's still a three hour tour! :sad2: You know the captains of those things just have to be DYING to slam down the accelerator just ONE TIME. And that's why Biscuit could never drive a Disney Boat, Bus, Monorail, Tram or other vehicle in which I was in charge of maintaining a specified velocity.

Glad they got that straightened out:thumbsup2 Me too. Apprently it was a fairly common occurance because he smacked about 3 keys, slid the card through some funkadelic reader and said "You're good to go".

"toots of a ferry" :rotfl2: I'm glad I'm not the only one who laughed at that. (I laugh at my own jokes pretty much all day long. Which can be bad. Cause I'm a snorter.)

GreatBiscuit

04-21-2009, 03:46 PM

Can't wait! For some reason this was all I could quote from your post. But as to the Boat Schedules, I don't know that I'd avertise that one! :rotfl2: :lmao: I'm guessing the speed limits are a combination of safety / wake control to prevent erosion. Is sounds good anyway. If that doesn't work, we can always just blame global warming. In fact in the interest of reducing carbon emissions, maybe they could hitch up some horses to the boats, then the horses can walk along the top of the canal and tow the boats around. It certainly wouln't be any slower than it is now!

burly

04-22-2009, 10:37 PM

Been to Coral Reef twice. Once yum. once not so yum.
can't waitpopcorn::

GreatBiscuit

04-23-2009, 10:01 PM

Been to Coral Reef twice. Once yum. once not so yum.
can't waitpopcorn::

Food was okay. Not fantastic, not bad, but okay.

GreatBiscuit

04-23-2009, 10:05 PM

I have a confession to make; I hate motivational posters. Not just dislike, but despise. I’m not sure what it is about them that strikes such an offensive chord. I simply find them hokey, aloof, and myopic. We have several in our office featuring skydivers, mountain climbers, sail boats, golf courses, the list goes on.

I’m thinking if you really want to motivate folks, instead of shelling out several hundred bucks on framed posters, can we not just run over to Sam’s and by a jug of Now N Laters? Maybe sling a few over the walls of our cubicles like a ringmaster rewarding a troupe of performing seals? I don’t know about you, but I’d find that considerably more effective at boosting my morale than staring at pictures of people doing activities I don’t have the physique to accomplish, in places I don’t have the funding to visit, above captions that are sappier than a Lifetime Movie Network marathon.

If I made motivational posters, they would have practical things on them like a guy sitting on the pavement with the caption “Do the job you were hired for and we won’t throw you out the door.” HR friendly, maybe not, but it would certainly be an improvement.

The only thing more annoying than motivational posters is a “Team Building” exercise. We have the ever popular “fall backwards and let people catch you” routine. Or there is my personal favorite, “Team Shirt Day.” Seriously? Is this really necessary? Can we not just give a friendly wave and maybe get a designated farting area so one of my coworkers can stop giving us all nose bleeds with his secondhand flatulence every time his wife makes tuna casserole?

Why this incessant rant on office practices? I have no idea. It’s just something I’ve got to say today. Time to move on.

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, slow boats were boarded, rain fell freely, and park hoppers refused to hop. Before we get started, there are two points concerning the pervious chapter. First, I wish to apologize for the quantity of grammatical errors contained in the original version that I posted. I was appalled when I read back over it and found over a dozen. I edited these, but unfortunately, it was after most comments had already been posted.

Second, I need to explain a phrase from the final paragraph, “Unclean, Unclean, Run Away! Run Away!” There are two references here, one is to the ancient Jewish law requiring those with leprosy to cry out a warning of “UNCLEAN!” when they were in streets. Anyone who heard it would immediately turn and go the other way. The second ‘Run Away! Run Away!” was an allusion to Monty Python. Hopefully that will clear up the confusion as I was not attempting to comment on the sanitary conditions of the restaurant.

Now that I’ve filled an entire page with fairly meaningless drivel, I supposed I should hurry up and get going. While in transit to the Coral Reef, I was a bit concerned about having overrun our priority seating time. I needn’t have worried however, for the lobby was completely empty when we arrived. Say what you will about the dining plan, but one thing we can all agree on. It was much easier to tour casually back in the day. You HAVE to map out “The Plan” to do Disney Dining.

We were soon shown to a table and I have to say, it is still the fanciest restaurant we’ve ever eaten in. Soon the menus were delivered and I immediately began scouring over mine. Tracy looked for a few moments and said “This place seems really expensive, are you sure you wouldn’t rather eat somewhere else?” I gave the customary head jerk/grunt that we men make when selecting the cut of flesh we intend to devour. She then looked some more and said “They only have one thing that isn’t seafood”. Me -“Oh, good, go ahead and order that.” After a few more moments Tracy replied “I really don’t want to pay $20 for a piece of chicken”. Me – “Oh, okay”. Tracy – “Are you sure you wouldn’t rather go find something else?” Me – “Hey waiter, does this come with any sides?”

We then ordered and Tracy ordered just a small salad, while I selected a pasta and shrimp dish that at $17 seemed to be the most reasonable item I could locate. She was quiet the rest of the meal and I figured she was just a bit tired.

Have you ever seen those cartoons where a character makes a pile of explosives to get another character? Then he leaves a trail of gunpowder so it can be lit from a safe distance. And then the other cartoon character sneaks up and sticks the gunpowder barrel in the first guy’s pants and then lights the trail of powder. And no matter where the guy runs, he can’t escape because he’s leaving a trail of burning gunpowder behind him? You know that the barrel is going to blow, and that the guy will be running past the pile of explosives when it happens. Well, when I walked out of Coral Reef, I was walking towards a pile of TNT with a keg of gunpowder stuck in my britches and the trail behind me was lit.

As you recall from earlier episodes, I had already had a nice, soul cleaning release of pent up emotion earlier in the week. Tracy had not yet had a chance to vent her frustrations. You females in the audience already know what I did wrong. When Tracy asked me twice if I wanted to try someplace else, she was really saying “I don’t want to eat here, take me somewhere else.” Which I didn’t do. Why? To quote Jeff Foxworthy “Cause she didn’t ask me to.”

I had not yet been married long enough to learn that women communicate on a much different level. In fact I’m not even sure if it’s in the same time/space continuum. Having now been married close to twelve years, I would know she wanted to leave without her having to say a word. I know what she likes to eat and what she doesn’t, and I would have been able to tell from reading the menu whether or not she’d enjoy it. I’ve also learned to read between the lines (a LITTLE bit) and can usually pick up on what she is “saying without saying.” Also, Tracy has learned the fine art of spelling things out for me in slow and simple words, which makes our lives much easier.

But on this day, in that hour, I was blissfully unaware that I stood guilty of any transgression. Until, upon walking out, I headed right towards The Land and she headed left towards the exit. “Honey, you’re going the wrong way.” “Thanks Magellan, but I got this.” Now I may not be the smartest guy in the world, but I’m trainable. And I had long ago learned that when someone is walking quickly away from you and is not responding to hails, there’s a problem. I chased her down, thinking maybe she was feeling sick or something. Then I saw her eyes. DOH! Danger Will Robinson! Danger! And so it was that we had our first argument as a married couple in Epcot…in Future World…on a bridge…which may or may not have had a troll under it.

It’s funny how the world works sometimes. A few years later I was serving as a counselor at a youth camp and one of the other youth pastors was telling me how he and his wife had their “married quarrel” at Epcot. I’m not sure if that’s some sort of spiritual training the Lord takes you through when preparing to enter youth ministry or not. I certainly don’t remember hearing about it in school.

Thus I stood, living my worst ever Walt Disney World memory, trying to console my bride and assuring her I was not a caveman. Then to add insult to injury, it started to rain. At first we ignored it until the skies broke out the boom. We soon found our selves scrambling for cover and wound up in the queue for the Living Seas. Then we started to laugh. REALLY Laugh. Hee-Hawing, gut wrenching, somebody call security and tell em The Biscuits just flipped as script laughing. We finally recovered and made promises to one another about clear communications and never quarreling again. We had survived a week of insanity, and knew that if we could get though one more day, we could handle just about anything.

Coming up on Episode 32 – Close Encounters of the Cool Kind.

Click here for the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31571813&postcount=372)

Backstage_Gal

04-24-2009, 12:04 AM

The only thing more annoying than motivational posters is a “Team Building” exercise. We have the ever popular “fall backwards and let people catch you” routine."

As much as I hate that particular "excercise", if you can call it that, I can do you one better. 20 years or so ago, we went on an outing (camping for 3 days)n before opening a new hotel. They put a ladder against a tree. The challenge was to get up as high on the ladder as you dared, then fall backwards into outheld arms (NOT JOINED AT ARMS OR HANDS, just outstretched) The challenge was that the goal was a 5 star rating for the hotel. I think the only one to go up five rungs was the GM. I think I managed 3. That was scary! but nobody got dropped.
Ahh, memories....
Or there is my personal favorite, “Team Shirt Day.” Seriously? Is this really necessary? Can we not just give a friendly wave and maybe get a designated farting area so one of my coworkers can stop giving us all nose bleeds with his secondhand flatulence every time his wife makes tuna casserole?

Why are you hating on team shirts? They make perfectly nice hanging around the house or even sleep wear (just get them big enough).

Funny thing about first fight as a married couple. I tried to think back, but I honestly can't remember what it was. I KNOW whe had some for sure, that's not it, just can't remember the first one. But then, my memory sucks, LOL! plus its been almost 39 years.

Great update, GB! Glad you made it 12 years after dissing FLB's requests, LOL.

burly

04-24-2009, 01:59 AM

oh yeah i've had one of those memories. :rolleyes1
Glad that you erupted in humor. It makes it better.:thumbsup2

Kimberly815

04-24-2009, 10:57 AM

Ah, the first married fight. I think my DH and I actually had it about 2 years into dating, which made our honeymoon safe. . .but everyone has to have it. I must agree- if you guys made it through this honeymoon, then you can make it through almost anything! What a crazy trip!

If I made motivational posters, they would have practical things on them like a guy sitting on the pavement with the caption “Do the job you were hired for and we won’t throw you out the door.” HR friendly, maybe not, but it would certainly be an improvement.
[/B]

I think you need to visit www.despair.com and check out their demotivator posters. They are definitely worth a look. I used to have one of their demotivator calenders in my cube at work (facing inward, so I wouldn't offend any coworkers). My DH loves the one with the picture of the French Fries that says "POTENTIAL- Not everyone gets to be an astronaut when they grow up". They even have one about motivational posters: "MOTIVATION- If a pretty poster and a cute saying are all it takes to motivate you, you probably have a very easy job. The kind robots will be doing soon."

joleen76

04-24-2009, 02:32 PM

[SIZE="3"]
And so it was that we had our first argument as a married couple in Epcot…in Future World…on a bridge…which may or may not have had a troll under it.

Hmmm I think this was very close to the scene we had our throwdown on our Honeymoon, after the monsoon. I think the Coral Reef is a bad place to eat on your honeymoon. Sad too, because I love this place otherwise. :rolleyes1

I agree EPCOT is the first fight place on a honeymoon.

It’s funny how the world works sometimes. A few years later I was serving as a counselor at a youth camp and one of the other youth pastors was telling me how he and his wife had their “married quarrel” at Epcot. I’m not sure if that’s some sort of spiritual training the Lord takes you through when preparing to enter youth ministry or not. I certainly don’t remember hearing about it in school.

Just further proves it!

Then we started to laugh. REALLY Laugh. Hee-Hawing, gut wrenching, somebody call security and tell em The Biscuits just flipped as script laughing. We finally recovered and made promises to one another about clear communications and never quarreling again. We had survived a week of insanity, and knew that if we could get though one more day, we could handle just about anything.

I love this! We too had a moment like this when we had a tense moment and I slipped a code word in the conversation. We are dorks, we had words we picked up while on our Honeymoon, completely random words, and only we knew what they truly meant. Example....Ungala (GMR) Anyway, it's good to see that we aren't the only one's who spontaneously bust out laughing. :rotfl:

Can't wait for more!

PrincessV

04-24-2009, 02:57 PM

I have a confession to make; I hate motivational posters. Not just dislike, but despise.
Don't even get me started. I'm right there with you on that one.
I’m thinking if you really want to motivate folks, instead of shelling out several hundred bucks on framed posters, can we not just run over to Sam’s and by a jug of Now N Laters? Maybe sling a few over the walls of our cubicles like a ringmaster rewarding a troupe of performing seals?
::yes:: And I can vouch - that's exactly what a former manager did! It was a bank and she'd buy a couple bags of bite-size candies. After we closed, when there was a mountain of new accounts to process before leaving, she'd stat tossing them around the room as we worked. Maybe it was the sugar high, but we were most definitely MOTIVATED! :rotfl:

You females in the audience already know what I did wrong.
Yep. :sad2::hug:

Why are you hating on team shirts? They make perfectly nice hanging around the house or even sleep wear (just get them big enough).
:rotfl2: Mine is currently being used to polish silver. ;)

brookelizabeth

04-25-2009, 01:56 AM

I've been wondering where Rose and Benard went, and Vincent too!

and I'm with ya on the motivational posters. Thankfully our office is more the "chuck the candy over the cube wall" type of place. Usually it's chocolate kisses though instead of Now & Laters. :goodvibes I really like my workplace!

Great updates! I am glad the park hopper deal got worked out and the teeny spoon was found too. Sorry about the fight at Epcot though! Ugh. As soon as I read your wife asking that for the second time I thought "Get up Biscuit, take her elsewhere!" but could just see it unraveling.

And sometimes, often times, women don't even understand themselves! ;)

Joe and I are still working on that whole communication thing, but usually I'm the blunt one and he's the "beat around the bush" one!! We are 2.5 years in, I'm hoping it gets clear soon. :rotfl2:

All7OfUs

04-25-2009, 07:20 AM

Hey Biscuit!

Followed you over from Vexorg's TR, (well, actually, I was perusing (sp?) the boards for a new one to read and remembered you from there) and I must say I am completely bummed I hadn't discovered you before! You are a truly masterful writer, and I have soaked up every lovely installment today! It took all day, but was well worth it.

I look forward to future Mondays and Thursdays for new installments, and expect many a moment of hilarity! Thanks for each one so far...

GreatBiscuit

04-27-2009, 01:01 AM

As much as I hate that particular "excercise", if you can call it that, I can do you one better. 20 years or so ago, we went on an outing (camping for 3 days)n before opening a new hotel. They put a ladder against a tree. The challenge was to get up as high on the ladder as you dared, then fall backwards into outheld arms (NOT JOINED AT ARMS OR HANDS, just outstretched) The challenge was that the goal was a 5 star rating for the hotel. I think the only one to go up five rungs was the GM. I think I managed 3. That was scary! but nobody got dropped. Speaking from experience, a fellow can build up quite a substantial velocity in 5 rungs. I’m impressed!

Why are you hating on team shirts? They make perfectly nice hanging around the house or even sleep wear (just get them big enough). I don’t think it’s the shirts themselves I’m hating, so much as the whole attitude behind it. Having someone with a clipboard show up at your desk and tell you to give them $15 for a $3 shirt so you can be a “team player” just doesn’t fly with me. It’s kind of like advertising that your team is easy to rip off. Next thing you know some guy in a trench coat is trying to sell you “previously owned” motivational posters out the back of his van in the employee parking lot.

Funny thing about first fight as a married couple. I tried to think back, but I honestly can't remember what it was. I KNOW whe had some for sure, that's not it, just can't remember the first one. But then, my memory sucks, LOL! plus its been almost 39 years. Had it not been for the location, timing and circumstances I don’t think I’d have remembered it either.
Great update, GB! Glad you made it 12 years after dissing FLB's requests, LOL. Thanks and me too!

oh yeah i've had one of those memories. :rolleyes1
Glad that you erupted in humor. It makes it better.:thumbsup2I always find humor in things (even when it’s not necessarily appropriate) so I laugh often. Which is great, don’t get me wrong. Laughing out loud can be good, but not when you’re say in the middle of a funeral or something. Which I’ve been known to do. Not out of disrespect…that’s just how I deal with things. Maybe some sort of coping mechanism. Wow...that’s like deep and stuff. Who knew writing a TR would open a window to the soul. Speaking of opening a window, I’ll be right back. Jason’s Deli is killing me.

Ah, the first married fight. I think my DH and I actually had it about 2 years into dating, which made our honeymoon safe. . .but everyone has to have it. I must agree- if you guys made it through this honeymoon, then you can make it through almost anything! What a crazy trip! It was DEFINITELY a crazy trip, but you know in a way it was a good thing. (More on that later.)

I think you need to visit www.despair.com and check out their demotivator posters. They are definitely worth a look. I used to have one of their demotivator calenders in my cube at work (facing inward, so I wouldn't offend any coworkers). My DH loves the one with the picture of the French Fries that says "POTENTIAL- Not everyone gets to be an astronaut when they grow up". They even have one about motivational posters: "MOTIVATION- If a pretty poster and a cute saying are all it takes to motivate you, you probably have a very easy job. The kind robots will be doing soon." Okay, I spent WAAAAAY too much time on that site. HOLY CARP was that stuff funny. Thanks for the link. I was laughing myself into a state of snorts there.

Hmmm I think this was very close to the scene we had our throwdown on our Honeymoon, after the monsoon. I think the Coral Reef is a bad place to eat on your honeymoon. Sad too, because I love this place otherwise. :rolleyes1 As my friends from college would say, it’s the Universal Constant rearing its ugly head. (Believe me, that’s a back story that’d take YEARS to explain.)

I love this! We too had a moment like this when we had a tense moment and I slipped a code word in the conversation. We are dorks, we had words we picked up while on our Honeymoon, completely random words, and only we knew what they truly meant. Example....Ungala (GMR) Anyway, it's good to see that we aren't the only one's who spontaneously bust out laughing. Sometime a good laugh will say more than words ever could.

::yes:: And I can vouch - that's exactly what a former manager did! It was a bank and she'd buy a couple bags of bite-size candies. After we closed, when there was a mountain of new accounts to process before leaving, she'd stat tossing them around the room as we worked. Maybe it was the sugar high, but we were most definitely MOTIVATED! :rotfl: AWESOME! I’m gonna print that out and stick to my boss’s monitor.

I've been wondering where Rose and Benard went, and Vincent too! and I'm with ya on the motivational posters. Thankfully our office is more the "chuck the candy over the cube wall" type of place. Usually it's chocolate kisses though instead of Now & Laters. :goodvibes I really like my workplace! See above multi-quote reply.

Great updates! I am glad the park hopper deal got worked out and the teeny spoon was found too. Sorry about the fight at Epcot though! Ugh. As soon as I read your wife asking that for the second time I thought "Get up Biscuit, take her elsewhere!" but could just see it unraveling. Ah…the bliss of young love. I was saying the same thing when I typed it, but I knew how it would end.

And sometimes, often times, women don't even understand themselves! ;) :rolleyes1

Joe and I are still working on that whole communication thing, but usually I'm the blunt one and he's the "beat around the bush" one!! We are 2.5 years in, I'm hoping it gets clear soon. :rotfl2: Keep working…it will get easier as time goes on. Remember that Direct = Good.

Hey Biscuit!
Followed you over from Vexorg's TR, (well, actually, I was perusing (sp?) the boards for a new one to read and remembered you from there) and I must say I am completely bummed I hadn't discovered you before! You are a truly masterful writer, and I have soaked up every lovely installment today! It took all day, but was well worth it.

I look forward to future Mondays and Thursdays for new installments, and expect many a moment of hilarity! Thanks for each one so far... Howdy and Welcome! :welcome: Glad to have you here! Thanks for your kind words. I truly do appreciate it. Trip six is almost wound down so not TOO much more hilarity on that one, but trip seven is already shaping up to be a real hum-dinger. (In a GOOD way.)

Backstage_Gal

04-28-2009, 08:34 PM

GB, what happened to you Monday update? Hope all is well!

chicagoshannon

04-28-2009, 08:43 PM

Biscuit, oh Biscuit? I was wondering why I was so cranky today and then realized I didn't get to read a post from you last night!

I need something to keep me occupied these last couple of days!

GreatBiscuit

04-28-2009, 10:07 PM

GB, what happened to you Monday update? Hope all is well!

Biscuit, oh Biscuit? I was wondering why I was so cranky today and then realized I didn't get to read a post from you last night!

I need something to keep me occupied these last couple of days!

Sorry Ya'll! Getting it posted now!

GreatBiscuit

04-28-2009, 10:08 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure…well, let’s not dwell on the past shall we? At the close of the previous episode, we found ourselves becoming involuntary guests of the Living Seas pavilion. (Although I suppose “Unplanned” guests would be more accurate.) Since we were already there, it seemed logical to partake of the attraction in all its glory.

We meandered through the queue and checked out all the nifty themeing. (I loved the model of the Nautilus.) We may or may not have actually sat through the movie. Eventually we found our way to the hydrolators. After pretending to go somewhere, we exited into the bowels of the Living Seas and boarded our lovely Sea-cab.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls2.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls1.jpg

Although Tracy does NOT love seafood, she does love sea life. ESPECIALLY dolphins and whales. (For our tenth anniversary I surprised her with the Beluga Interaction Program at Sea World San Antonio. )

Tracy’s love of all things aquatic was a major benefit as it allowed me to somewhat redeem myself. (Although I did get a “Why didn’t we just come here to begin with?”)

Once we emerged into Sea Base Alpha, we spent quite a bit of time just looking at all of the different displays. When I had last been to this pavilion on the extended trip with my family, we buzzed through here fairly quickly. This time, Tracy and I relaxed and didn’t really stress over schedules and time.

The place was fairly empty, with the morning crowds having already spilled out into World Showcases and other various locales. We went up to the second level and scored a spot next to a window. One of the dolphins was in a playful mood, and soon swam up right next to Tracy. It pressed right up against the window and began twitching its head at her. Then it meandered off, but kept swimming past the window, each time, giving Tracy a little head bob.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls7.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls4.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/lvs5.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls6.jpg
She’s saying “I forgive you for being a poopy head.”

We spent quite a bit of time here and really enjoyed it.

Eventually we went in search of a restroom and somehow found a manatee instead. (Told you I didn’t spend long here on my first visit.) We watched for a few moments as the “Sea Cow” just sort of floated there.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls8.jpg
Look…lettuce…okay…let’s move along.

We meandered through the gift shop for a few moments and then headed back outside. It was raining again and misjudging the depth of a puddle, I managed to re-soak my shoes. JOY. We headed back towards the gate area and discovered Spaceship Earth to be a walk on. Ain’t no way Biscuit’s passing up that one! We hopped on board and enjoyed a leisurely ride through the history of mankind. After exiting, we checked out a couple of the shops in the general vicinity before deciding to bid farewell to Epcot.

We headed out the front gates to the Magic Kingdom monorail. Yep. That’s right. We hit up all three parks in ONE DAY. WOOHOO! Happy-Happy park beast! The Cast Member at the gate insisted we would need another hand stamp so we got our third of the day.

I had never ridden the monorail from park to park before and have to say it was far superior to the boat ride we endured earlier in the day. About half way to the Ticket and Transportation Center, I was checking out the dolphin footage on our video when the battery on the camcorder died. Of course. Oh well, life goes on.

We soon arrived at the TTC and somehow managed to change trains like we knew what we were doing. After taking a leisurely trip around the lagoon, we arrived at the front gates of the Magic Kingdom. We scanned our tickets, showed our hand stamps, which by this time were simply globs of glowing flesh under the UV lamp, and were soon winding our way down Main Street.

By this point in time my hooves were about to fall off. The blisters and wet socks were not making nice and upon reaching the end of Main Street, I already needed a break. We turned right and parked it at a table in the CS restaurant that is now called the Tomorrowland Noodle Terrace. I don’t know what they called it then, but I know that they sold pizza. They had some sort of meal deal with a personal pan pizza, salad and drink so we each got one. (As you may recall Tracy had a very light lunch and was in need of a restorative, and I never met a pizza I didn’t like.)

Feeling thus renewed, we headed on to Tomorrowland. The rain stopped briefly and I pulled out my camera to take this shot.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/Tomorrowland.jpg

Our first stop was Delta Dramflight. Oh happy happy omnimover. Thou art a friend to my feet and a source of great comfort. The ride was just as much fun as always and I again got a kick out of the engine.

We next joined a very small queue for the Carousel of Progress and were soon spinning around the stage in our nice padded seats. Oh I’m feeling the joy now my friends. I found that I still loved the ride, and still laughed at the cornball humor.

Space Mountain was down so we next took a ride on the WED-Way Peoplemover. (Or had they renamed it the TTA by then? I don’t remember. Nor do I really care.) We got to catch a glimpse of my favorite mountain with the lights on and my feet remained happy.

Disembarking, we checked out a shop and I purchased my third and final souvenir. It was a black Space Mountain T-shirt featuring Mickey on a ride vehicle. This brought me up to a grand total of: T-shirt, Camera Strap, Keychain.

We headed north and declined to partake of: the speedway with its killer attack turnstiles, the “kiddie area” (Birthdayland or whatever they called it then), and the teacups. We pondered the notion of Mr. Toad and Snow White, but the lines were prohibitive. Instead we hopped on Peter Pan and were soon flying high over the city of London. This is a nifty end of the day ride...in fact I enjoyed it more this time than ever before. I wasn't stressing over plans, wondering what to ride next, plotting an exit strategy, nothing. I was simply enjoying the ride.

When we arrived back safe and sound in Florida, we crossed the street grabbed a drink at Pinocchio Village Haus. Thirst properly quenched we next hit up It’s a Small World which we had been watching through the window. We wound up with a boat all to ourselves and it was truly odd. Part romantic, part Chucky. Just as we were exiting, the fireworks were starting. I was excited at first and rushed out into the "street". Have you ever tried to watch the fireworks from behind the castle? It doesn’t really work.

Not wishing to throw our necks out, we headed to Liberty Square to hitch a ride on a Doom Buggy. Who doesn’t love the Haunted Mansion at night? Apparently there are several who fall into this category, because there was no line whatsoever. SCORE! We were soon cruising our way through the mansion and thoroughly loving it. It would have been the perfect evening were it not for the now constant pain in my still soaked sneakers. (Tracy was smart enough to have worn sandals and was doing fine. Lesson learned – bring wet weather footwear.)

I regaled my bride with much useless trivia and all of the backstory that I could remember. We even did a bit of a mock waltz when riding through the ballroom. At least as much of one as you can sitting down side by side. It basically consisted of rocking sideways in 6/8 time. Would that be considered butt waltzing? I don't know.

Exiting the Mansion, we headed to Big Thunder and were soon rumbling our way through the wilderness. This is a great night time attraction as well. After returning to the loading dock, we decided to call it a night and headed back to the entrance. We went with the fastest moving line which in this case was the ferry boat. When we arrived back at the TTC, there was Nikki Bird bus waiting and we gratefully sank into our seats.

When we arrived back at our motel, I found my friend the clothes drier and threw in my shoes and we began to pack up for our morning check out. (So sad!) I made a point NOT to put anything into the safe and soon we had things pretty well in order. I checked with the front desk about checkout procedures and figured out that we would be able to stay in the parks until 3 PM before returning to catch the van for our flight. What would we do on our final day? Where would we go and what would we see? Well, that would be getting ahead of myself.

Coming up on episode 33 – The Storm Blows On

Click here for next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31621356&postcount=382)

All7OfUs

04-29-2009, 12:05 AM

chicagoshannon

04-29-2009, 08:53 AM

I'm glad you redeemed yourself! I hope you're bringing appropriate footwear on your upcomming trip. :)

whogirl'smom

04-29-2009, 10:52 AM

Looks like y'all had a good night after all! Loved the night time shot of MK; I think we've only been there twice after dark and never in Tomorrowland.

Don't you wish they would have invented crocs back on this trip?:lmao:

Backstage_Gal

04-30-2009, 12:12 AM

Don't you wish they would have invented crocs back on this trip?:lmao:

Somehow I can't imaging GB in crocs, LOL, but I maybe totally off base with that.

What is the answer,GB?

Great for finally having a good day, except for the feet fiasco.

AshClan

04-30-2009, 10:05 AM

Hey GB,

Just wanted you to know that I AM still here. Reading and cringing and rolling my eyes and laughing. I've been in and out - just back from our favorite place - so it seems by the time I get all caught up (in work, of course), I've run out of time to comment.

So........great updates. Look forward to more. Remind me to never have you plan my honeymoon (Assuming, of course, that I am going to have another one. Which I won't. So remind me to never have you plan my second honeymoon ;))

GreatBiscuit

04-30-2009, 01:30 PM

Ended up bein' a pretty cool day after all, I'd say. She forgives the poopy head, your feet didn't fall off, no lines for some really headliner stuff, and the bus was parked in its upright and locked position waiting for your tired derriers! I'd say a nice day, all in all. We'll just forget about the worst memory moment and proceed from here- we hope :) It did turn out to be a great day. Even with the negatives, it was still our best of the trip.

I'm glad you redeemed yourself! I hope you're bringing appropriate footwear on your upcomming trip. :) You know it! :thumbsup2

Looks like y'all had a good night after all! Loved the night time shot of MK; I think we've only been there twice after dark and never in Tomorrowland.

Don't you wish they would have invented crocs back on this trip?:lmao: Having not properly prepared for this trip, I did not realize that Tomorrowland had been remodled. I LOVED the way it turned it. Very Jules Verne.

Somehow I can't imaging GB in crocs, LOL, but I maybe totally off base with that.

What is the answer,GB?

Great for finally having a good day, except for the feet fiasco. I have to say I've never crocked my hooves. I'm planning on stashing a pair of flip flops in my park bag for a quick change incase of rain or water rides. (Both of which I anticipate in abundance.)

Hey GB,

Just wanted you to know that I AM still here. Reading and cringing and rolling my eyes and laughing. I've been in and out - just back from our favorite place - so it seems by the time I get all caught up (in work, of course), I've run out of time to comment.

So........great updates. Look forward to more. Remind me to never have you plan my honeymoon (Assuming, of course, that I am going to have another one. Which I won't. So remind me to never have you plan my second honeymoon ;)) Hey AC! Glad you are still hanging out. So do I infer from your post that we will be treated to an AshClan TR soon? :banana: :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cheer2:

burly

05-01-2009, 10:30 AM

PrincessV

05-01-2009, 11:37 AM

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/ls6.jpg She’s saying “I forgive you for being a poopy head.”
:rotfl: She looks very happy! :thumbsup2

Space Mountain was down so we next took a ride on the WED-Way Peoplemover. (Or had they renamed it the TTA by then?
Does it matter? Peoplemover forever!!! :yay:

butt waltzing
:lmao:

What would we do on our final day? Where would we go and what would we see?
popcorn::

GreatBiscuit

05-01-2009, 04:24 PM

I remember the first time going and reading about the hydrolators in Birnbaums guide. They made them seem so cool.
And then upon riding them, i said, Is that it? Huh?:confused3
Sounds like the night ended up well for you two. yay!:banana: The Hydrolators were definitely pure cheese. (Gouda if I'm not mistaken). The night did end up pretty well!

:rotfl: She looks very happy! :thumbsup2 You know the saying. "When momma aint happy, aint NOBODY happy!"

Does it matter? Peoplemover forever!!! :yay: I like the way you think.

popcorn:: Update coming later today! (Just gotta do the screen captures from our video.)

GreatBiscuit

05-01-2009, 09:02 PM

I awoke the next morning feeling a bit sad. Although we had a fantastic time the day before, there were still multiple attractions that I had yet to partake of. (Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, ALL of Epcot except for Spaceship Earth and The Living Seas, even a couple at MGM that we had not been able to squeeze in.) I knew there was NO way we were going to get it all done. This was our final day, and we only had until three to return to the motel and catch the airport shuttle.

We got up, got going and managed to get everything packed. After piling up all the luggage, I gave a last inspection and prepared to head out. There was only one problem. Either the blisters had swollen my feet or the dryer had shrunk my shoes. I could NOT get them on. After observing my grunts, moans, and cries of distress, my bride made the suggestion that I remove the laces, put the shoes on, then lace them up as tight as I could handle. Her idea worked like a charm and I was soon ready to head out.

We opened the door and were surprised to find that it was still dark. Was the clock set incorrectly, did we have some sort of weird daylight savings time kick in? What’s going on? Our question was answered fairly quickly by a rumble of thunder. We put our buns in boogey, and managed to make it back to the lobby before the rain hit. I signed in our luggage, confirmed our shuttle times and waited for a bus to arrive.

We decided to go ahead and spend our final day in the Magic Kingdom for two reasons. First, there were several attractions there that we had yet to see. Second, it was the last bus stop and we hoped that by the time we arrived, the storm would have moved on. We had about a thirty minute wait for the bus and I began to get a bit restless. Finally our ride arrived and we were quickly boarded and gone. Fortunately, the rain did stop shortly after the bus was pulling away from the motel. After a rather uneventful ride, we were dropped off near the TTC. We headed up the monorail platform and soon a train pulled in.

By the time we arrived at the station and made it into the park, the sun was shinning bright. (YEAH!). The pavement had dried and all the rain had apparently been converted to steam. (Not so YEAH!!!) We crossed under the bridge and got our first daytime glimpse of Main Street.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkcastlecake.jpg
Yeesh! It’s even uglier in the daytime!

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkbal.jpg
More artsy fartsy.

Just as we arrive in town square, there was a parade in progress. We soon discovered that it was a “Campaign Tour” for the Main Street Mascot. (Or something to that effect anyway.) I believe Captain Hook was running against Winnie the Pooh.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mktig.jpg

We didn’t stick around long enough to find out who won, but I have a pretty good idea who it was.

After a quick glimpse at Main Street, we decided to take the train the Frontierland. I’m pretty sure I had ridden the train before, I THINK with my aunt & uncle, though I don’t specifically remember ever having been on it. I don’t know if it was my deep appreciation for not having to walk, or my desire to take in as much as I could, but I REALLY loved this particular train ride. I’m looking forward to riding it this summer, even more so because my girls already love it. They rode a train last summer on our “Disney Training Run” and it wound up being one of their favorites. (More on that later.) Now every time we talk about the trip, they remind me that we HAVE to ride the train.

When we arrived in Frontierland, we soon discovered that the line for Splash was insane in the membrane. I elected to punt and we decided to add this particular attraction to the list for “Next Time” Instead we headed right to partake of Adventureland. It started to sprinkle a bit while we were walking along, but nothing too heavy. We found our way to the Pirates of The Caribbean and headed into the beloved queue caves. The wait turned out being a bit longer than I had anticipated and I was really beginning to stress out.

We eventually hit the loading area and began our adventure on the high seas. I’m sure it was as great as always, but I had a hard time enjoying it. My inner park beast was working overtime and was not happy to have spent so much time in one attraction.

Once we disembarked, I practically drug Tracy back towards Frontierland. I entertained a brief notion that Splash may have cleared out bit, but the line was still insane so we moved on. We had done Big Thunder and Haunted Mansion the night before so I kept going. Small World and Peter Pan were already done. No time to stop; we’ve got to keep moving. We then found ourselves in front of the Lion King puppet show thingy they had in the theater that now houses Mickey’s Philharmagic. My feet were protesting my forced march with enthusiasm so we decided to go ahead and stop and see the show.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk23.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk24.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk25.jpg

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mk26.jpg

Between the queue, the pre-show and the show itself, we ate up another 45 minutes. With each moment that went by, I seemed to get more and more stressed out as I realized that our time was running short.

We came outside again and discovered another rain shower. This one was a nasty one too. We fled to the corridor of the castle and wound up staying in there for quite some time. Even though my park beast was screaming to be on an attraction, the thought of walking in wet shoes again sent my feet into spasms.

We browsed the shops and admired the murals. When the rain finally let up, Tracy was ready for lunch. Up until that time, I had been prepared to impose a fast until we hit the airport in order to maximize our ride time. Yet, I knew from the look in her eyes and the events of the previous day that this would not be a prudent recommendation. I knew we were near Pinocchio Village Haus, but neither of us were in the mood for fast food.

Suddenly my inner park beast perked up. This was a challenge. Where could I find a good meal at a reasonable price with seating available? It turns out that the answer to this question would lead to my greatest Walt Disney World memory of all time.

Coming up On Episode 34 – A perfect lunch leads to a new discovery

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31665891&postcount=395)

jcc0621

05-01-2009, 09:49 PM

You know the saying. "When momma aint happy, aint NOBODY happy!"

THe way it should be!:thumbsup2

Those blisters just sound painful.

My guess is the Crystal Palacepopcorn::

FarAway<3

05-02-2009, 12:12 AM

Hey, you're funny. I like this report. :)

And you're from CenTex, like me.

Backstage_Gal

05-02-2009, 03:10 AM

Geez, GB, your inner park beast is stressing me out. Relax!

Cant wait to hear about the great discovery. Monte Cristos at Tony's?

I'm headed out on a jetplane tomorrow with limited access, so i'll catch up when it return.

burly

05-03-2009, 02:57 AM

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

All7OfUs

05-04-2009, 12:00 AM

I'm guessing the Plaza...

WOW! You couldn't even get your shoes ON??!!! Ouch!

I'd have stressed way out too. Too many long lines for me, thanks, and not enough actually gettin' on. But like you said, sometimes, that's when our "most favorite moments" can sneak in. :goodvibes

Until next time,

GreatBiscuit

05-04-2009, 01:10 AM

THe way it should be!:thumbsup2

Those blisters just sound painful.

My guess is the Crystal Palacepopcorn:: Def the way it should be. That was without a doubt the worst my feet have ever hurt.

Hey, you're funny. I like this report. :)

And you're from CenTex, like me.:welcome: Glad you found your way over and that you have enjoyed reading along.

Geez, GB, your inner park beast is stressing me out. Relax!

Cant wait to hear about the great discovery. Monte Cristos at Tony's?

I'm headed out on a jetplane tomorrow with limited access, so i'll catch up when it return.You are close on the guess. Have a great trip!

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:: :3dglasses

I'm guessing the Plaza...

WOW! You couldn't even get your shoes ON??!!! Ouch!

I'd have stressed way out too. Too many long lines for me, thanks, and not enough actually gettin' on. But like you said, sometimes, that's when our "most favorite moments" can sneak in. :goodvibes

Until next time,I'm telling you, I don't even think Dr. Scholl himself could have done much for me at that point in time!

AshClan

05-04-2009, 07:50 AM

Yep, you are stressing me out too! I remember those days when the next trip was not anywhere close on the horizon, and the pressure to see it all was too intense....:sad2:

I can't wait to hear about your greatest memory!!!

Oh, and BTW, I can't STAND looking at those castle pics. :scared1: My Lord, WHAT were they thinking?!?!?!?! Let's hope everyone learned their lesson and we'll never see anything close to that again!

PrincessV

05-04-2009, 11:32 AM

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkcastlecake.jpg
AAACCCKKK!!!! :scared:

After a quick glimpse at Main Street, we decided to take the train the Frontierland. I’m pretty sure I had ridden the train before, though I don’t specifically remember ever having been on it. I don’t know if it was my deep appreciation for not having to walk, or my desire to take in as much as I could, but I REALLY loved this particular train ride. I’m looking forward to riding it this summer, even more so because my girls already love it. They rode a train last summer on our “Disney Training Run” and it wound up being one of their favorites. (More on that later.) Now every time we talk about the trip, they remind me that we HAVE to ride the train.
Awww! :goodvibes We, too, love the train. When my DS was a baby, we'd ride it several times around while he napped; it holds a special place in my heart!

Where could I find a good meal at a reasonable price with seating available? It turns out that the answer to this question would lead to my greatest Walt Disney World memory of all time.
Ooo, I'm looking forward to this! popcorn::

Kimberly815

05-04-2009, 01:18 PM

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkcastlecake.jpg
Yeesh! It’s even uglier in the daytime!

I cannot get over how AWFUL that castle is. Ugh!Ugh!Ugh!

[IMG]
Suddenly my inner park beast perked up. This was a challenge. Where could I find a good meal at a reasonable price with seating available? It turns out that the answer to this question would lead to my greatest Walt Disney World memory of all time.

Coming up On Episode 34 – A perfect lunch leads to a new discovery

Yippee! I like it when things finally go well for you!

GreatBiscuit

05-04-2009, 02:36 PM

Yep, you are stressing me out too! I remember those days when the next trip was not anywhere close on the horizon, and the pressure to see it all was too intense....:sad2:Yep...I was definitely getting over-commandoed. Is that a word?

Awww! :goodvibes We, too, love the train. When my DS was a baby, we'd ride it several times around while he napped; it holds a special place in my heart! Awesome. I have a feeling we'll be taking SEVERAL trips. I gotta say, the girls are almost as excited about the plane, buses, boats and monorail as they are about the actual parks. Transportation as an attraction. Gotta love Disney.

Oh, and BTW, I can't STAND looking at those castle pics. :scared1: My Lord, WHAT were they thinking?!?!?!?! Let's hope everyone learned their lesson and we'll never see anything close to that again! AAACCCKKK!!!! :scared:I cannot get over how AWFUL that castle is. Ugh!Ugh!Ugh!Amen to that. There are just some things should be left alone! (NoFigment)

I can't wait to hear about your greatest memory!!!Ooo, I'm looking forward to this! popcorn:: Yippee! I like it when things finally go well for you!Coming soon!

joleen76

05-04-2009, 02:51 PM

GB - our honeymoon's were very alike in the sheer amount of rain, but I believe only honeymooners can truly appreciate it and still have an awesome time regardless of the obstacles.

Although your honeymoon at points reminds me of that show Wipeout! (sorry must be all the canny quips and analogies)

I can't wait to hear what lunch has instore for you guys. :surfweb:

GreatBiscuit

05-04-2009, 08:06 PM

GreatBiscuit

05-04-2009, 08:07 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, rain was falling, beasts were brawling and feet were crying for home. After deciding that counter service was not on the radar, I weighed our options. To date I had eaten at exactly ONE table service restaurant in six trips to The World, and as you recall, the experience had been an unmitigated disaster.

The only Magic Kingdom table service restaurants I could recall were King Stephan’s Banquet Hall, The Crystal Palace and Tony’s Town Square. King Stephan’s was certainly the closest, yet even before the days of Disney Dining it was a hard table to score. Plus it didn’t exactly fit the bill of “budget friendly”.

I knew nothing about Crystal Palace, only that it was a restaurant. However, it looked expensive from the outside and I had an overwhelming fear of what they might or might not have on the menu. This left us with Tony’s Town Square. I had a pretty good idea about what type of food they had. On a previous trip, (I believe trip five), I had perused the menu they had posted up outside before moving on to something cheaper. I remembered that they had Italian food and that was right up Tracy’s alley. If there’s one food First Lady Biscuit loves, it’s some Italian.

I issued orders for Mr. Sulu to lay in a course for Main Street, and begged Mr. Scott to hold the ship together for a little while longer.

The rain was still falling in a drizzle and the sky was clad in steel grey. It was as if the Magic Kingdom herself was mourning the impending departure of the GreatBiscuits. Before us lay a sea of bright yellow ponchos interspersed with blue strollers and a montage of random umbrellas. We tightened up our own ponchos and joined our park compatriots in their massive quest to locate shelter, entertainment, merchandise and nourishment.

When we reached the end of Main Street closest to The Hub, I darted into the first gift shop on the right. (Okay, I didn’t exactly dart, more like waddled with enthusiasm.) At that point in time, you could go from shop to shop inside and thus traverse the entire street without having to head in the rain. As far as I know, that is still the case, but after twelve years, I can’t make any promises. (You park veterans will have to chime in on that one.)

When we reached the “end of the road” as it were, we crossed over Main Street and were soon heading in the door at Tony’s. Most of the seats around the podium were empty so I was optimistic that we’d be able to get in quickly. There was a TV in the waiting area playing the movie “Lady and The Tramp” which I thought was interesting, but didn’t make the connection. (Sorry, I had NEVER seen the movie before that. Don’t roll your eyes at me. We DID buy it a couple of years later and the name and themeing of the place made a heck of a lot more sense after that.)

I gave our information to the Cast Member at the podium, and barely had time to sit down before they called us back. We were led to the left and out into the sunroom. (I didn't even know they HAD a sunroom before I walked into it.) I was excited to discover that we had been given table near the window with a prime view of Town Square. SCORE!

Our server soon arrived and before you know it, the carbonated restoratives were freely flowing. We decided to split something (which we STILL do often) and I left the entrée selection up to Tracy. (Like I said, I may not be the smartest guy in the world, but I’m trainable.) We wound up with some sort of cheese type appetizer and a bowl of spaghetti. I know the reviews for this place have plummeted as of late, but at the time, I absolutely LOVED it. Yet as great as the food was, it was not the thing that stands out the most to me about that meal.

I knew when we sat down that we would not be going on any other attractions. The rain, the blisters, the time constraints, they all lead to the same conclusion: we’re done. I was really in a funk when we arrived. We’d lost the first two days completely and now, our final park blitz had turned into a washout.

As we munched on our appetizer, the rain picked up again. The wind really began to blow and the thunder and lightning returned. As we sat by the window and watched the rain fall, we started talking about how crazy the weather had been. Then my wife completely shocked me. She grabbed my hand and said “I’m glad it rained so we could slow down and have a chance to just sit and talk.” Talk? What you mean? We’ve been talking. Sort of.

Suddenly as I sat and thought about what she had just said, a dim, dull little light began to slowly glow in the deep abscesses of my brain. In all my scurrying, obsessing, blowing and going, I had completely missed the one thing that truly brings the Magic to the trip: simply experiencing the moment. I had spent so much time trying to get to the next ride, the next show, the next gift shop, the next ice cream bar that I never really stopped to enjoy the things that I had been doing.

There, in that moment, a new inner park entity came into being; my Logical Tour Guide. Now my Inner Park Beast had a balancing force that had been thus far lacking. I began to understand that a successful trip is greater than the sum of its parts. Ride counts don’t mean much if your only memories are of being stressed and out of time.

As the storm brewed on outside, Tracy and I sat, talked, laughed and relaxed. We watched as folks ran for cover outside and huddled up on the walkways. I saw several people pouring over maps, no doubt trying to re-calculate their touring plans to compensate for the weather. When the meal first began, I was stressed that I wouldn’t have time do anything else before we had to go. I soon realized that I wasn’t out of time for attractions, indeed, I had been given extra time to spend with my bride. And that my friends is the greatest attraction of them all.

Coming up on Episode 35 - A fond farewell.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31736303&postcount=410)

jcc0621

05-04-2009, 08:57 PM

At that point in time, you could go from shop to shop inside and thus traverse the entire street without having to head in the rain. As far as I know, that is still the case, but after twelve years, I can’t make any promises. (You park veterans will have to chime in on that one.)

Yep, you still can, on the right side (heading away from the castle). Not sure about the other side. I haven't ventured into that side in a while!

Don’t roll your eyes at me.

BUt it's too easy not too:rolleyes:

and I left the entrée selection up to Tracy. (Like I said, I may not be the smartest guy in the world, but I’m trainable.)

:thumbsup2

Ride counts don’t mean much if your only memories are of being stressed and out of time.

ITA ::yes::

Coming up on Episode 35 - A fond farewell.

popcorn::

burly

05-05-2009, 01:55 AM

:woohoo:
Oh man o' man i cannot wait until the new Star Trek Movie!!!
So sweet, the dinner. :hug:
This can't b the end!:scared1::sad2:

Vexorg

05-05-2009, 02:49 AM

That cacaphonous sound you just heard off in the distance was the final grand piano being dropped on The Plan, following after the boulder, the anvil, the boat anchor and the 16-ton safe.

(And if that's not how you're supposed to do things on a Disney board, I apologize. Too many Roadrunner cartoons as a kid.)

All7OfUs

05-05-2009, 05:14 AM

Reminds me of the episode where the Voyager finally made it home- to the Alpha Quadrant. Nice ending to a great love story! :love: Only it's not done yet! :cool1:

Thanks for the smiles!

AshClan

05-05-2009, 07:54 AM

There, in that moment, a new inner park entity came into being; my Logical Tour Guide. Now my Inner Park Beast had a balancing force that had been thus far lacking. I began to understand that a successful trip is greater than the sum of its parts. Ride counts don’t mean much if your only memories are of being stressed and out of time.

:thumbsup2 You got it! That's the secret that all those guidebooks don't tell you. It's so easy to get wrapped up into The Plan, trying to cover all the many many bases, that you forget why you're really there. Congrats on crossing over into the Logical side of things!! That's the sign of a true Disney Touring Pro!;) And, of course, on this next trip, your first with the little ones, you'll find it's an invaluable perspective!

One of my favorite memories from our first trip with the boys is riding round and round on that train while my 3 year old slept in my lap. I did that loop about 10 times, while other guests came on and off commenting on "what a good idea" that was! I still think of it everytime I get on the train and my now-14 year old son rolls his eyes as I tell the story to him for the umpteenth time ;)

chicagoshannon

05-05-2009, 08:29 AM

Bravo! Glad you were able to enjoy the last little bit of your honeymoon. I think you're the fastest new husband trainee I've ever encountered!

PrincessV

05-05-2009, 09:04 AM

Before us lay sea of bright yellow ponchos
I miss those yellow ponchos! Such a surreal scene in the rain. The clear ones just aren't the same.
At that point in time, you could go from shop to shop inside and thus traverse the entire street without having to head in the rain. As far as I know, that is still the case, but after twelve years, I can’t make any promises. (You park veterans will have to chime in on that one.)
::yes:: It's not the straight and direct path it once was, but still doable! :thumbsup2

I soon realized that I wasn’t out of time for attractions, indeed, I had been given extra time to spend with my bride. And that my friends is the greatest attraction of them all.
Beautifully put GB! :goodvibes

java

05-05-2009, 09:30 AM

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/TR%20Retro/mkcastlecake.jpg

This Castle is the reason my now 15 year old son doesn't get sick. In 1997 he was a little 3 year old we walk up to the castle and he runs over and LICKS IT!:scared1: While he was quite disappointed it wasn't really cake all I could think of was the germs!
But all is golden in Disney- he didn't get sick and now has a fantastic immunity that I say is because of that ugly castle.

Quite enjoying your report and must say you married the right woman. I don't know if I could have stuck it out after all those mishaps!

joleen76

05-05-2009, 11:46 AM

Can I get a collective Awwww?

So glad to see your Honeymoon is winding down on such a great note.

Hope your "clan" trip next month is as relaxing as the last part of your last day!

Kimberly815

05-05-2009, 11:54 AM

There, in that moment, a new inner park entity came into being; my Logical Tour Guide. Now my Inner Park Beast had a balancing force that had been thus far lacking. I began to understand that a successful trip is greater than the sum of its parts. Ride counts don’t mean much if your only memories are of being stressed and out of time.

As the storm brewed on outside, Tracy and I sat, talked, laughed and relaxed. We watched as folks ran for cover outside and huddled up on the walkways. I saw several people pouring over maps, no doubt trying to re-calculate their touring plans to compensate for the weather. When the meal first began, I was stressed that I wouldn’t have time do anything else before we had to go. I soon realized that I wasn’t out of time for attractions, indeed, I had been given extra time to spend with my bride. And that my friends is the greatest attraction of them all.

Coming up on Episode 35 - A fond farewell.

:thumbsup2

That's the thing I love about the disboards. I come here and I plan and plan and plan for a trip (which is half the fun!). But once we get there, if we want to change it up, we do. . .and throw that plan out the window. Thanks to all my disboard reading, I am usually full of useful information, and pretty good at changing things up on the fly- and we have never had any problems.:)

whogirl'smom

05-05-2009, 01:35 PM

Awww, what a sweet ending to your honeymoon. I hope your wife is reading!

ThreeTinks

05-05-2009, 03:35 PM

Loving your TR - or trip reportS :rotfl: You remind me SO MUCH of my brother (who is always getting in some tight spot or losing his wallet :lmao:)

You feel the same way about bees that I do - in fact I felt a wee bit of panic just reading that excerpt. Unfortunately I have passed my fear of them onto my three children (not my proudest of mommy moments) so where there was one person running around screaming like an idiot when bees appear, now there are four :rolleyes1:laughing:

AND YES! I too am wondering where Rose & Bernard are :confused3

Back to the TR (I am about to get to your worst ever WDW memory - which I cannot believe there is anything worse than the start of your honeymoon :scared1:)

GreatBiscuit

05-05-2009, 07:06 PM

Yep, you still can, on the right side (heading away from the castle). Not sure about the other side. I haven't ventured into that side in a while! Good to know – Thanks!

:woohoo:
Oh man o' man i cannot wait until the new Star Trek Movie!!!
So sweet, the dinner. :hug:
This can't b the end!:scared1::sad2: Def looking forward to the next film. LOST definitely turned me into a J.J. Abrams fan.

That cacaphonous sound you just heard off in the distance was the final grand piano being dropped on The Plan, following after the boulder, the anvil, the boat anchor and the 16-ton safe.

(And if that's not how you're supposed to do things on a Disney board, I apologize. Too many Roadrunner cartoons as a kid.)It also works for “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” which is definitely DIS friendly. Plus it has my all-time favorite Disney movie line. “OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO My biscuit’s a burning! My biscuit’s a burning! Ohhhhhh that smarts!”

Reminds me of the episode where the Voyager finally made it home- to the Alpha Quadrant. Nice ending to a great love story! :love: Only it's not done yet! :cool1:

Thanks for the smiles! Thankfully there’s no Borg sphere chasing us!

:thumbsup2 You got it! That's the secret that all those guidebooks don't tell you. It's so easy to get wrapped up into The Plan, trying to cover all the many many bases, that you forget why you're really there. Congrats on crossing over into the Logical side of things!! That's the sign of a true Disney Touring Pro!;) And, of course, on this next trip, your first with the little ones, you'll find it's an invaluable perspective! I’m definitely going more low-key. There is still a basic plan as we shall see, but not quite so in depth.

One of my favorite memories from our first trip with the boys is riding round and round on that train while my 3 year old slept in my lap. I did that loop about 10 times, while other guests came on and off commenting on "what a good idea" that was! I still think of it everytime I get on the train and my now-14 year old son rolls his eyes as I tell the story to him for the umpteenth time ;) That’s a cool story! I hope to have a few of those myself this summer.

Bravo! Glad you were able to enjoy the last little bit of your honeymoon. I think you're the fastest new husband trainee I've ever encountered! Trust me, I had a TON of training left to go. In fact, I think I’m still in Basic.

I miss those yellow ponchos! Such a surreal scene in the rain. The clear ones just aren't the same. I’ve seen the photos and have to agree.

::yes:: It's not the straight and direct path it once was, but still doable! :thumbsup2I’m sure I’ll be through there many times.

This Castle is the reason my now 15 year old son doesn't get sick. In 1997 he was a little 3 year old we walk up to the castle and he runs over and LICKS IT!:scared1: While he was quite disappointed it wasn't really cake all I could think of was the germs!
But all is golden in Disney- he didn't get sick and now has a fantastic immunity that I say is because of that ugly castle. :welcome: I have to say this just had me cracking up!

Quite enjoying your report and must say you married the right woman. I don't know if I could have stuck it out after all those mishaps! Thanks! And I wholeheartedly agree!

Can I get a collective Awwww?

So glad to see your Honeymoon is winding down on such a great note.

Hope your "clan" trip next month is as relaxing as the last part of your last day!Thanks! I’m trying to make it as LOW KEY as possible.

:thumbsup2

That's the thing I love about the disboards. I come here and I plan and plan and plan for a trip (which is half the fun!). But once we get there, if we want to change it up, we do. . .and throw that plan out the window. Thanks to all my disboard reading, I am usually full of useful information, and pretty good at changing things up on the fly- and we have never had any problems.:)Exactly. Even though it’s been twelve years since I was at the parks and have NEVER been Animal Kingdom, I’ve picked up so much here on the boards that I know I can easily plan and navigate on the fly.

Awww, what a sweet ending to your honeymoon. I hope your wife is reading! She is! More or Less…she reads them on my Blackberry usually.

Loving your TR - or trip reportS :rotfl: You remind me SO MUCH of my brother (who is always getting in some tight spot or losing his wallet :lmao:) :welcome: Glad to have you here!

You feel the same way about bees that I do - in fact I felt a wee bit of panic just reading that excerpt. Unfortunately I have passed my fear of them onto my three children (not my proudest of mommy moments) so where there was one person running around screaming like an idiot when bees appear, now there are four :rolleyes1:laughing: Proves my point…stinging critters are evil! Had a giant black wasp that buzzed into the living room the other night. :scared1: Had to break out the big guns. (AKA the stuff in the can that shoots a good 30 ft.)

AND YES! I too am wondering where Rose & Bernard are :confused3Looks like tomorrow's show is going to be a good one! Of course they are all good so that goes without saying.

Back to the TR (I am about to get to your worst ever WDW memory - which I cannot believe there is anything worse than the start of your honeymoon :scared1:)I guess I should have rephrased it to say “Worst ever IN-PARK memory of all time!

GreatBiscuit

05-08-2009, 12:58 AM

Hello all! Just a quick update to let you know that todays episode has been postponed until tomorrow. Had a few things pop up today and wasn't able to get it done to my satisfaction. There is still something missing and I need to sleep on it. Actually I just need to sleep period. I was too tired to even turn on my laptop so I'm typing this on my blackberry. Sorry for any typos BTW. I hope you are all doing well and that you have a great night. And just as a teaser, I'll be announcing something pretty cool tomorrow. Good night all! Sweet dreams and take care.

Alice Hugger, aka Dances with Bees, aka the Plan Man, aka GreatBiscuit, aka Bubba, aka Matt.

GreatBiscuit

05-08-2009, 09:20 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, more rain fell, pasta was devoured and a new inner park guide was born. After we finished eating, Tracy and I sat and did some people watching for a few more minutes before finally heading out to join them. The entire time that we were eating, there remained several empty tables, both on the patio and in the main dining room. I suppose that’s where the Disney Dining Plan brings in a profit. If you keep the dining room full, you can earn less per meal and still come out ahead. (Sam Walton meet Disney, Disney meet Sam.)

When we finally headed out, the rain had slowed to a steady drizzle which showed no signs of stopping. In fact our server mentioned to us that it was forecasted to rain all day long. After another survey of the lobby, we crossed the street and checked out the Emporium.

We weren’t really looking for anything in particular, we were simply trying to stay dry and kill a few minutes until we had to leave. After spending a while meandering about the place, Tracy spied a princess photo frame. It was one of the 3-D type frames and we wound up coming back to it several times. Finally we decided to go ahead and blow the last of our spending cash and pick it up.

We brought our selection up to the register and I was surprised to see the price only come up to half of what the sticker said. I asked the clerk about it and low and behold it was on sale. SCORE! Let the Disney magic roll!

Soon the hour was near, and with heavy feet, but a happy smile, I bid farewell to my favorite spot. I didn’t use the camcorder or camera again, and my memory isn’t clear on the point, so I am unable to say with certainty whether we ferried or mono’ed. (You know if you type that last word in Microsoft Word without the apostrophe and you have auto-correct on, the word it changes to will give you a WHOLE different context.)

We were one of the few people who rode the bus back to the Nikki bird and the dreary grey skies seemed somehow appropriate. It did not take long to fetch our luggage and we were soon waiting on a bench amongst a pile of suitcases. We watched as several folks came blowing in out of the rain, eager to begin their vacations, and all asking the desk clerk when it would stop raining. (I can only speculate that they believed meteorology to be required study for those working the front desk.) After a few minutes, we joined another family in the Holiday Inn van and were soon on our way to MCO.

Tracy and I spent a good portion of the van ride and the flight home recounting the insanity that had defined our trip. Yet in a way, having had time and experience to analyze things, I’m actually glad things didn’t go perfectly. We learned from that trip that life wasn’t going to be quite as smooth and perfect as we might have imagined. And the enormity of all the things that went wrong really changed the way that I approached our upcoming trip. Of all the things I brought home with me from that vacation, none were as important as a new perspective.

It’s funny what we stress over sometimes. So often, the circumstances which seem so big and so overwhelming manage to cloud our perspective, keeping us from seeing just how minor and insignificant they are.

A couple of weeks ago, I headed up to my daughter’s school for the annual reading awards program. If the kids read X number of books at home during the year, they receive a medal. My oldest has taken after her old man in that she LOVES to read and easily made it past the minimum books requirement. It was raining when I left the house and when I hit the highway, it was pouring so hard, traffic was near a standstill. You could barely hear the radio over the rain.

The slower the traffic got, the more upset I became that I was running behind schedule. As I was a few blocks away from the school, an ambulance came shrieking past. Then a police car and fire truck passed by as well. When I finally made it to the parking lot, all I saw was a sea of flashing lights. At least a half dozen fire trucks were parked outside, an entire line of ambulances was assembled near the playground and there were police cars everywhere.

As I’ve said before, I tend to be an extremely even-tempered person. My youngest daughter was with me in the back seat and I knew I couldn’t say anything that might scare her. That did not however stop my mind from racing through a list of possibilities. We’ve all seen the news of what can happen in a public school. In the back of mind, I came to a realization that in the next few minutes, my entire world could change, and the life that I knew could forever cease to exist. I’ve heard people talk about having a reality check before and I have to say that this moment definitely qualified.

I parked and headed to the cafeteria where I knew my wife and daughter were supposed to have been. As I got there, the Assistant Principal was directing parents to the other building on campus, and assuring us that everyone was okay. I made my way up the breezeway and found my wife with her classroom in the gym. She was soaking wet and many of the kids were crying.

As it turns out, lightning had struck a rooftop air conditioner in the Kindergarten hallway, creating a loud explosion and filling a classroom with smoke. The building was immediately evacuated, and the classrooms poured out into the rain and headed up the hill to the next building. All the classes got out safe and orderly, and every student was accounted for. The only injuries were wet clothes and rain-drenched hairdos.

After examining the building, the fire department advised that the driving rain had extinguished the small fire on the roof as soon as the unit was struck. From that I learned that I had two choices. I could either be angry with God for allowing the lighting to strike a building my wife and daughter were in, or I could praise Him for sending the torrential ran to douse the fire that He knew the strike would ignite. For me, the choice is clear. I chose the latter.

What does all this have to do with our vacation? Simple. Writing this TR and detailing the past six trips I have taken have led me to have a big-picture perspective that was lacking before. I’m excited now for different reasons than I was when I first booked. My expectations have shifted and my definition of a great vacation has changed. The thing I am now most looking forward to is experiencing The World through the eyes of my children.

As an odd side note to the story above, this last Monday the fire alarms went off again at my wife & daughter’s school. It turns out an adjoining AC unit wound up shorting out a motor and sent smoke and a burnt odor into the hallway. Fortunately there was no actual fire, just some melted wires. AND it was not raining outside so nobody got wet.

I suppose I should hasten to wrap this episode up so I return you now to July, 1997. I knew from experience that a vacation at The World could be better. On the plane ride home, I made Tracy a promise. I vowed to her that I would one day bring her back, and that when I did, I would make sure that it was the most magical and enjoyable trip ever! (Famous last words.) I thought at the time that it would only be a couple of years before we headed back to Orlando. However, as we all know, sometimes, life happens. I can either be angry with God that I didn’t get to go back before now, or I can praise Him that I get to bring my girls to the same spot that meant so much to their daddy when I was growing up. Again, I choose the latter.

Upon landing safely back in Kansas City, Tracy and I found our car, pointed it down I35-South, and began our life together as husband and wife. If I thought the honeymoon was a wild ride, it was nothing compared to what we’ve gone through since. Yet, I wouldn’t trade a moment for the world.

Oh, I mentioned yesterday that I had a surprise announcement. Well, here it is. My dad (whose screen name is yet to be determined) has begun working on the trip report from my VERY first trip to The World as a three year old. And since I’ve now announced it publicly, I can use it as leverage to ensure he finishes it! So at some point, it will be added in as a bonus chapter.

Where will the next six weeks take us in terms of this report? I don’t know. I have a couple of ideas on the subject, but that’s getting ahead of myself.

Coming up on Episode 36, Finding the DIS.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31777284&postcount=416)

My2Qtz0205

05-08-2009, 09:54 PM

I didn’t use the camcorder or camera again, and my memory isn’t clear on the point, so I am unable to say with certainty whether we ferried or mono’ed. (You know if you type that last word in Microsoft Word without the apostrophe and you have auto-correct on, the word it changes to will give you a WHOLE different context.)

:rotfl: You know I just had to try it to see what it said, right? :lmao:

Glad your wife & daughter were ok. That had to be terrifying for all involved.

Great TR. Looking forward to the next chapter.

All7OfUs

05-09-2009, 05:01 AM

chicagoshannon

05-09-2009, 08:25 AM

I can't wait to read details (are there going to be some?) of your upcomming trip.

I'm curious if you have BBB planned for your daughters. Before coming here (we're still at the World) I said I would never pay for the BBB but after seeing all the little girls so excited in their outfits I might have to change my mind at some point.

burly

05-09-2009, 11:01 AM

Scary!:scared1:
Thank God everyone was safe and sound.:thumbsup2

What's next? huh? well? lol!popcorn::

GreatBiscuit

05-10-2009, 05:55 PM

That must have certainly been a perspective changing incident, and glad everyone was safe and sound. :worship: Scary for sure, and I definitely CAN see how that would help bring things back into a place of seeing the forest through the trees. I know this upcoming trip will be great and am excited to see your plans for it over the coming weeks! :surfweb:Thanks! If def brought the forest back into focus.

:rotfl: You know I just had to try it to see what it said, right? :lmao: Glad I wasn't the only cracking up...Usually I laugh alone at stuff!

Glad your wife & daughter were ok. That had to be terrifying for all involved. Me too - it was def a bit freaky.

Great TR. Looking forward to the next chapter.Thanks and :welcome:

I can't wait to read details (are there going to be some?) of your upcomming trip. To do less would be un American....well...un DISer at any rate.

I'm curious if you have BBB planned for your daughters. Before coming here (we're still at the World) I said I would never pay for the BBB but after seeing all the little girls so excited in their outfits I might have to change my mind at some point. So far, no. We'll see if dad sticks to his guns. I'm trying to figure out a way to avoid them noticing it exists. I don't think I'm going to have much luck though.

Scary!:scared1:
Thank God everyone was safe and sound.:thumbsup2

What's next? huh? well? lol!popcorn::It was crazy. Up Next, all sorts of weird and wacky stuff.

GreatBiscuit

05-11-2009, 09:16 PM

What do you get when you combine very little sleep with writer’s block and copious amounts of antihistamines? Well, this post for starters. Of all the portions of this particular narrative, the one which has been the most perplexing from the get go is the trip seven Pre-Trip Report. What should go in, what should stay out, how much info is too much info? The variables are intense. INTENSE I tell you!

I will do my best to try to update twice per week, but I imagine the postings will be much shorter than the normal episodes. I’m also struggling with content selection. I think it’s time to go read some PTR’s and get a better feel for the process.

Here’s a FEW of the Episodes you can expect to see (in no particular order):

Cast Profiles
Pickin’ The Pop
Everything Old is New
The Plan 3.0
Counters, Countdowns and Quarters
Dining Dilemmas
The Training Run – Fiesta my Biscuit!
This Aint Your Granny’s Fanny Pack

I suppose the best place to get started is at the beginning. (A logical hypothesis Captain.) Having made a vow to my bride that we would re-experience “The World” as it was intended to be done, I began my research. Eventually my studies brought me to the DIS and I read my first ever Trip Report. (Posted by Snoopy and chronicling her epic battle against the double stroller from Hades.)

I was a DIS’er from that point forward and I’d have to say that of late, about 99% of my DIS time is spent on the Trip Reports board. In the early years, I visited pretty much all of them (of course that was only like 4 or 5) but there’s something about Trip Reports that just seem to draw me in.

Over the years I’ve read some pretty crazy reports. Canned corn, emu legs, register journals, run away wheel chairs, Xanax, Ip-Dips, crazed squirrels, daring ducks, DMVC and Jigglers have all given me endless hours of laughter and entertainment.

As I mentioned way back in episode one, I have been planning our current trip for twelve years. What does that mean exactly? Well back in 1997 into 1998, after doing my due diligence in researching on the web and the DIS boards, I had a full itinerary drawn up and ready to go. By full I mean, resort, park schedule, attraction lists, dining choices and even a packing list. My initial plan was to take Tracy back for her college graduation / our 2nd anniversary. Obviously that never came into being.

Later, I modified my plan for a “group trip” with my wife and I, plus my sister in law and one of her friends. This of course did not work out either.

Over the course of the next several years, I figured the next best thing to going myself was to help plan trips for other people. To date, I have planned out a family vacation, a honeymoon, and a summer trip for a youth group. All of the trips were roaring successes and I received lots of souvenirs back. Joy. Something along the lines of “I sent my friends Disney World and all I got was this stinking T-Shirt.”

At one point, back in 2004, I went though the College of Disney Knowledge and worked with a travel agent for a few moths to design a Disney-based travel site. Long story short, even though I’ve not had much success in planning my own trips, I think I can safely say that this time around, I am well prepared. And I always had a spreadsheet tucked away deep within the inner recesses of my hard drive which I would occasionally get out, dust off, and update. (Of course I threw it out the window and started from scratch this time, but that’s getting ahead of myself.)

About a year ago, I really began toying with the idea of a FOR REAL return trip. I began crunching numbers, doing comparisons, charting, creating spreadsheets, all the crazy stuff I do.

I decided to put some feelers out to see where Tracy stood. We had been talking about bringing the girls for a couple of years but were reluctant due to their age. (Yeah, yeah, I know…that’s a DIS Debates Pandora’s Box.) Here’s how WE made our choice on when to do the first trip. I wanted the girls to be old enough to do several attractions and to at least remember SOMETHING, yet young enough to enjoy the magic. This summer, the youngest will be 5 and the oldest will be just 3 weeks shy of turning 7. We decided that this would be just about perfect.

I narrowed down our choices to two possibilities:

Option A: 5 days / 4 nights in a value

Option B: 5 days / 4 nights renting DVC points and staying in a studio. (They wound up being within $200 of each other.)

I was leaning towards renting DVC points if they were available. Little did I know that Disney would present me with option C.

Coming Next On Episode 37 – Pickin’ the Pop.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31828793&postcount=429)

All7OfUs

05-12-2009, 07:01 AM

Holy cow! It is soooo intense. I feel your pain! What stays in, what else can I put in?? All that!

Speaking of reading fun TRs, whatever happened to Mrs. The King??? I miss her pithy wit!

I guess I must be crazy too. I have entire notebooks filled with "very important" information such as what you describe, too!

Yup! They have a habit of presenting loads of options, don't they?? Too many to narrow it down to only one perfect trip!

PrincessV

05-12-2009, 09:09 AM

(Sam Walton meet Disney, Disney meet Sam.)
Oh my gosh - YES! Disney's employed the Wal-Mart system! :rotfl:
Look...
We brought our selection up to the register and I was surprised to see the price only come up to half of what the sticker said. I asked the clerk about it and low and behold it was on sale.
Watch out for falling prices! :yay:

Writing this TR and detailing the past six trips I have taken have led me to have a big-picture perspective that was lacking before. I’m excited now for different reasons than I was when I first booked. My expectations have shifted and my definition of a great vacation has changed. The thing I am now most looking forward to is experiencing The World through the eyes of my children.
:goodvibes

What do you get when you combine very little sleep with writer’s block and copious amounts of antihistamines?
My career? :rolleyes:

This summer, the youngest will be 5 and the oldest will be just 3 weeks shy of turning 7. We decided that this would be just about perfect.
:thumbsup2 ITA!

Little did I know that Disney would present me with option C.

Rule 21.3 of Fuzzy Disney Math... there's always an option C out there! ;)

joleen76

05-12-2009, 11:11 AM

Here’s a FEW of the Episodes you can expect to see (in no particular order):

Cast Profiles
Pickin’ The Pop
Everything Old is New
The Plan 3.0
Counters, Countdowns and Quarters
Dining Dilemmas
The Training Run – Fiesta my Biscuit!
This Aint Your Granny’s Fanny Pack

:rotfl: I can't wait!

About a year ago, I really began toying with the idea of a FOR REAL return trip. I began crunching numbers, doing comparisons, charting, creating spreadsheets, all the crazy stuff I do.

My DH would argue this statement was about me. I have spreadsheets and even a calendar I put together to show the rest of my brood where we were going when and where we were eating!

I decided to put some feelers out to see where Tracy stood. We had been talking about bringing the girls for a couple of years but were reluctant due to their age. (Yeah, yeah, I know…that’s a DIS Debates Pandora’s Box.)

I hear you on this arguement. DS9 was just 3 about to be 4 on our first trip. He does remember it, but I wonder if he will when he's 30? Fortunately for him he has other trips to remember too now. In Nov. we took DS5 for his first trip. He loved it and is now part of the chirping bird pack that repeats "when are we going back".

I was leaning towards renting DVC points if they were available. Little did I know that Disney would present me with option C.

OOOOoooo Option C. Can't wait to hear more about that!
popcorn:: (except it's really a snack size bag of stale cheeto's)

Normangirls

05-12-2009, 02:33 PM

"Over the years I’ve read some pretty crazy reports. Canned corn, emu legs, register journals, run away wheel chairs, Xanax, Ip-Dips, crazed squirrels, daring ducks, DMVC and Jigglers have all given me endless hours of laughter and entertainment." -- Great Biscuit

Me: Hi, my name is Normangirls, and I'm a Disaholic.

Everyone: Hi, Normangirls.

Me: I've been on the boards for over a year now, and I just had to have another conversation with DH. You know the one. He just doesn't understand that I Dis because I NEED to Dis. It's like breathing air.

Oh, it started out innocently enough. You know, looking up dates for MNSSHP, checking out reviews for a new hotel to try (on-site, of course). Then I found the trip reports.

Next thing I know, I'm snickering out loud at work, mumbling things about mugs being refillable for life, talking to co-workers about, "The Jiggler did the FUNNIEST thing the other day!"

Then the addiction kicked in. I got the DT's if 1000thHappyHaunt didn't update her report. I'd see a McDonald's with free wi-fi, and I had to fight the urge to pull in and see who was winning the "battle for my wallet." Things unrelated to Disney seemed to morph into logical topics for the Community board ("Does anyone have a good long-distance provider?").

The last straw was when I began saying things like "Carp!" and "Borg, dude, totally borg."

Help me before I buy DVC!

GreatBiscuit

05-12-2009, 03:46 PM

Speaking of reading fun TRs, whatever happened to Mrs. The King??? I miss her pithy wit! Here, here! Where is MTK of late?

I guess I must be crazy too. I have entire notebooks filled with "very important" information such as what you describe, too! :rolleyes1

My career? :rolleyes: Okay, that one had me cracking up. I can TOTALLY relate.

Rule 21.3 of Fuzzy Disney Math... there's always an option C out there! ;) Good to know!

My DH would argue this statement was about me. I have spreadsheets and even a calendar I put together to show the rest of my brood where we were going when and where we were eating! I blame the Dining Plan. Cause after all, it FORCES you to pre-plan.

I hear you on this arguement. DS9 was just 3 about to be 4 on our first trip. He does remember it, but I wonder if he will when he's 30? Fortunately for him he has other trips to remember too now. In Nov. we took DS5 for his first trip. He loved it and is now part of the chirping bird pack that repeats "when are we going back". Awesome! I’m hoping that the scrapbooks / video / photos / Trip Report will help them lock in some memories.

popcorn:: (except it's really a snack size bag of stale cheeto's)Sinus going all batty today, so I’m just sipping some sweet iced tea. (The mother’s milk of all true Texans)

"Over the years I’ve read some pretty crazy reports. Canned corn, emu legs, register journals, run away wheel chairs, Xanax, Ip-Dips, crazed squirrels, daring ducks, DMVC and Jigglers have all given me endless hours of laughter and entertainment." -- Great Biscuit

Me: Hi, my name is Normangirls, and I'm a Disaholic.

Everyone: Hi, Normangirls. Hi Normangirls! :welcome:

Me: I've been on the boards for over a year now, and I just had to have another conversation with DH. You know the one. He just doesn't understand that I Dis because I NEED to Dis. It's like breathing air.

Oh, it started out innocently enough. You know, looking up dates for MNSSHP, checking out reviews for a new hotel to try (on-site, of course). Then I found the trip reports. It’s always those pesky TR’s that trip us DIS’ers up and turn us into addicts.

Next thing I know, I'm snickering out loud at work, mumbling things about mugs being refillable for life, talking to co-workers about, "The Jiggler did the FUNNIEST thing the other day!"

Then the addiction kicked in. I got the DT's if 1000thHappyHaunt didn't update her report. I'd see a McDonald's with free wi-fi, and I had to fight the urge to pull in and see who was winning the "battle for my wallet." Things unrelated to Disney seemed to morph into logical topics for the Community board ("Does anyone have a good long-distance provider?"). What is it with co-workers not getting the Jiggler references?

The last straw was when I began saying things like "Carp!" and "Borg, dude, totally borg." DED

Help me before I buy DVC! At this point, it may be too late. I’m not sure an intervention would help. Especially since we're all enablers.

Welcome to the TR! And glad to have you here!

BewwyBootiful

05-12-2009, 06:59 PM

I just read the entire report in one sitting..you are a VERY talented writer, and you seem like a great guy - I can't wait to read more!

GreatBiscuit

05-12-2009, 08:28 PM

I just read the entire report in one sitting..you are a VERY talented writer, and you seem like a great guy - I can't wait to read more!Thanks! I appreciate the kudos! :welcome: Glad to have you aboard! That's a lot to read in one sitting! (100+ pages in MS Word). Looking forward to seeing you here!

chicagoshannon

05-13-2009, 07:52 AM

You're going at just about the perfect ages for your girls! I can't wait to see all of the things you're planning!

Backstage_Gal

05-13-2009, 01:34 PM

Hi, GB, back from my trip and all caught up.

Glad you found your counterbalance to your inner park beast and excited to hear you will keep us entertained with your pre-trip report until you leave.

Having your dad post a trip report from years past would be totally cool, hope he does it.

burly

05-13-2009, 02:24 PM

I am jumping in the Pandora box to say that i waited until my youngest was 7 to go. it was great, she was tall enough for everything. and it gave me almost exactly 5 years to save. barely enough time. i have 4 kids and the hubby. lots of people. ASMU saved me so much with the suites..:thumbsup2
going to stay in Pop in exactly 2 weeks from today for my oldest h.s. graduation.........

brookelizabeth

05-13-2009, 05:56 PM

I think the ages you have chosen for your children are the PERFECT Disney ages.

Anywhere between 5 and 8.

And I say that with having a 20 month old who has been twice. :laughing:

Your latest posts made me tear up. Praise God about that rain storm! I LOVE seeing him work like that! :yay:

And I'm very excited about the new inner tour guide you discovered. Experiencing Disney as it comes, and through the eyes of your kids is priceless. It's amazing. It truly makes the trip. Some of our best moments were watching Henry with the ducks. Or you know, while it wasn't the best moment, it certainly was memorable--Ghetto Gas :rolleyes: We laugh at it and even did in the moment!

I'm looking forward to hearing about all your plans!

GreatBiscuit

05-13-2009, 06:26 PM

You're going at just about the perfect ages for your girls! I can't wait to see all of the things you're planning! Thanks! When I look at it as 10 episodes away, it seems so far ahead. But when I look at it as 36 days, well it doesn’t quite seem so bad.

Hi, GB, back from my trip and all caught up.

Glad you found your counterbalance to your inner park beast and excited to hear you will keep us entertained with your pre-trip report until you leave.

Having your dad post a trip report from years past would be totally cool, hope he does it.Welcome home BSG! Hope all is going well for you at the House of Mouse. I am SOOOO bugging my dad to follow through on that one.

I am jumping in the Pandora box to say that i waited until my youngest was 7 to go. it was great, she was tall enough for everything. and it gave me almost exactly 5 years to save. barely enough time. i have 4 kids and the hubby. lots of people. ASMU saved me so much with the suites..:thumbsup2
going to stay in Pop in exactly 2 weeks from today for my oldest h.s. graduation.........I definitely can’t wait. It may be tough on a couple of attractions in that the oldest is over 44 inches, but the youngest is not. But for the most part, I think we’ll do well.

I think the ages you have chosen for your children are the PERFECT Disney ages.

Anywhere between 5 and 8.

And I say that with having a 20 month old who has been twice. :laughing: That one had me cracking up. Oh, BTW, I FINALLY watched your You Tube clip on the resort tour and had to smile at the “Finding the Sippy Cup in the Cupboard” scene. The “bring with” part reminded me of when I first met Tracy and for the longest time would crack up over the whole “with” thing. Now that I’ve been in the family for 12 years and spent a year living in Minnesota, it’s grown on me. Of course she still finds plenty to crack up about when it comes to my Texan dialect. (Particularly when I refer to the thing you push around the grocery store as a “buggy”.)

Your latest posts made me tear up. Praise God about that rain storm! I LOVE seeing him work like that! :yay: Me too!

And I'm very excited about the new inner tour guide you discovered. Experiencing Disney as it comes, and through the eyes of your kids is priceless. It's amazing. It truly makes the trip. Some of our best moments were watching Henry with the ducks. Or you know, while it wasn't the best moment, it certainly was memorable--Ghetto Gas :rolleyes: We laugh at it and even did in the moment!

I'm looking forward to hearing about all your plans! I am SO stoked about this trip, I can’t hardly stand it.

GreatBiscuit

05-14-2009, 10:06 PM

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, the DIS was discovered, I planned tips for others, and I was weighing my options for our summer journey. As I was closing up the previous episode, I had come to the conclusion that my best option would be to rent DVC points and spend 4 nights in a studio. I was all settled into that plan when a vagrant TV commercial caught my eye. Perhaps you saw it too. “Now, when you book four nights we’ll give you three nights free.” What did they just say?

This intelligence threw a proverbial wrench in the works. I went back to the planning board, did some searching, and finally decided that the prospect of 8 days at the World was too good to pass up. After reviewing the budget and being realistic about what we could and could not afford, I decided to book us at a Value Resort on the 4/3 plan.

My sister in law had spent her honeymoon at All Star Music and had a great experience. (“Thanks for ‘The Plan’ GB!” “No problem Tammy, glad to be of service! Hopefully it makes up for the refrigerator incident”)

After deciding to go for the 4/3 package, I was leaning towards either The Pop Century or the All Stars Music as our resort. I wanted to be fair however, and so I began to research the boards. I had perused many Trip Reports which sang the accolades of the Pop Century and decided to see what all the fuss was about.

When I first heard about the concept for Disney’s Pop Century Resort, my initial reaction was “What were they thinking?” A resort based on the popular culture of the 20th century? Talk about a snoozer. This establishment quickly went to bottom of my resort list as the “Only if there are no other rooms on property” option.

Then the resort finally opened and I checked out Deb Wills photos on All Ears. The place didn’t look quite as bad as I thought it would, but still, it was not rising any higher on my resort list.

As the years went by I began to read more and more Trip Reports from those who had stayed at this resort. One thing that I noticed was that the VAST majority of the reviews were positive. It seemed that for whatever reason, people really loved this place. As the time for our trip approached, I began digging a little deeper. It seemed that of all the value resorts, the Pop Century seemed to have the most favorable reviews when it came to the food court and the bus service.

In the end, I decided that since this trip was going to be all about the girls, I would let them be the ones to pick. (Dangerous I know.) I knew going in that concepts such as bus service, layout and food court options were a bit too abstract for a then 4 and 6 year old to deal with. Instead, I found about a dozen photos of each, put them all together in a power point and one evening, we sat down as a family and I showed them on the TV.

The kids sat through it all and their hands down favorite was the Pop Century. The pools were the deal breakers for both. Tahli was absolutely IN LOVE with the Hippy Dippy pool. That girl loves all things flowers and couldn’t wait to swim in it. Hailee was just getting into Wii bowling at the time and thought the Bowling Pin pool was the coolest thing ever. Wii sidebar – how is it a four year old could out bowl me on that thing? Tracy was leaning more towards All Star Movies and I have to say that mine was split vote. In the end though, we went with the girls’ suggestion and never looked back.

Question number two: “Which tickets do we get?” I pretty well ruled out the water parks option. After all, we’d be swimming at the resort, and during our “Training Run” we found that the water park, while fun for a while, was really not something we can enjoy quite yet. The girls aren’t there as far as age, height and swimming skills.

I didn’t care too much about non-expiring tickets either so this left me with one thing. “To Hop or Not to Hop. That is the Question.” After mulling it over for about 2.873432 seconds, I decided to Hop. The main reason being that this trip is about flexibility and down time. I need to be able to switch gears on the fly. If the girls get their heart set on going to the Magic Kingdom, I do not want to have to face the potential meltdown that would erupt when having to explain that we can’t because we already visited Epcot. One thing having two daughters has taught me is that the more drama you can avoid, the better.

With our resort and ticket’s now settled upon, I then began thinking over my next dilemma. Dining. Should we or should we not do the dining plan? I starting thinking about where I would like to eat, looked at several menus, ran some basic numbers and decided that it made sense for us to go ahead and add the dining plan.

The final piece of the booking puzzle that remained was the timeframe for our journey. I tossed a few dates back and forth, but eventually we decided to book June 19th-June 26th. (At the time, the 26th was the last day the 4/3 deal was good for.) This gives us two weeks after the end of the school year to get ready for our trip. The package we wound up booking is as follows:

Arriving : Friday 06/19/2009
Departing : Friday 06/26/2009 for 7 nights
Resort Name : Disney's Pop Century Resort
Park Tickets : 8-Day Magic Your Way Ticket with Park Hopper®
Package Type : Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining
Special Rate Type : 7-Night Magic Your Way Plus Dining January-June Offer

With our booking completed and our deposit paid, I found myself welling up with excitement inside. Could this REALLY be happening? There was only one minor detail remaining, namely transportation. At the time we booked our resort package, plane tickets were running around $450 each. Obviously that aint gonna happen. I kept checking prices, waiting for them to drop. I knew that if tickets stayed where they were, we would be driving. Yet, I still had hope.

We are fortunate enough to live within 1-3 hours of four major airports so usually, with patience, you can find a deal. During Spring Break, I got an email from Southwest Airlines about a Fun Saver deal, and was able to book our tickets for $198 round trip each out of Houston Hobby. There was only one catch. We had to take an EARLY flight into Orlando. This was good in that it would give us lots of park time, but bad in that it would require us to get up at O’dark thirty and fly out at the butt crack of dawn.

Our plane leaves Houston at 6:20 AM and arrives in Orlando at 9:35 AM. We are using Disney’s Magical Express, and it seems in the TR’s that I have been reading that the time frame from the plane landing to the bus reaching the resort averages around 90 minutes.

My hope is to be at the resort around 11ish. If a room is ready, we’ll go ahead and settle in, if not, we’ll head straight to the Magic Kingdom and return for a nap when the room is available. We do have a dining reservation that evening, but I can’t talk about that right now. It’s very hush-hush you know.

I guess that about does it for the travel and lodging. Hopefully I haven’t bored you to tears.

Coming up on Episode 39 – Well…..um…..I haven’t decided yet. How’s that for forward thinking?

Click here fort the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31885879&postcount=453)

stinkerbell007

05-14-2009, 10:46 PM

cool.:thumbsup2

I'll be at POP with my sis (burly, to you) and niece soon.

..been lurking, and not posting.:surfweb:

popcorn::

All7OfUs

05-15-2009, 01:02 AM

Cool Beans! The Pop! Your girls should love that place a lot. And yeah, it's an early flight, but just think- TONS of extra time at the park. If you hadn't gotten in until say, 2:00- that'd be it. Pretty much only a little bit of a day, given you have an ADR that night. BTW, can't wait to see WHERE you've chosen for that!

Isn't it interesting how the packages, and in particular the dining plan works out so differently for different people?? I did up my numbers too, and thought I'd pay more WITH it. But, I hear with kids it works out to be a better deal.

So, did you want to expound upon the fridge incident?? or are you still too traumatized??

Vexorg

05-15-2009, 02:30 AM

So, did you want to expound upon the fridge incident?? or are you still too traumatized??

Well,it doesn't seem to be capitalized and/or bolded (eg "The Refrigeratior Incident!!!!!(TM):scared:" so it probably isn't anything all that horrendous.

I thought about the Pop for my December trip, but ultimately I ended up at the DTD Hilton instead. The Pop probably would have actually been cheaper, but since I lucked out and got an unusually large room for $99 a night (it would have been nice if I could afforded anything at the hotel besides my room. but that's beside the point) I can;t complain too much. The place was definitely a tad deficient in the freakishly huge rubiks cube department though...

GreatBiscuit

05-15-2009, 09:35 PM

cool.:thumbsup2

I'll be at POP with my sis (burly, to you) and niece soon.

..been lurking, and not posting.:surfweb:

popcorn:: Hey Stinkerbell! It's always nice to have you post! Have a great time on your trip!

Cool Beans! The Pop! Your girls should love that place a lot. And yeah, it's an early flight, but just think- TONS of extra time at the park. If you hadn't gotten in until say, 2:00- that'd be it. Pretty much only a little bit of a day, given you have an ADR that night. BTW, can't wait to see WHERE you've chosen for that!I fairly sure that the excitement of FINALLY arriving at The World will override any lingering fatigue.

Isn't it interesting how the packages, and in particular the dining plan works out so differently for different people?? I did up my numbers too, and thought I'd pay more WITH it. But, I hear with kids it works out to be a better deal. It definitely worked out for us as we wanted to do some character meals and table service options.

So, did you want to expound upon the fridge incident?? or are you still too traumatized??That was in reference to the incident at the end of Episode 21.

I thought about the Pop for my December trip, but ultimately I ended up at the DTD Hilton instead. The Pop probably would have actually been cheaper, but since I lucked out and got an unusually large room for $99 a night (it would have been nice if I could afforded anything at the hotel besides my room. but that's beside the point) I can;t complain too much. The place was definitely a tad deficient in the freakishly huge rubiks cube department though... You may not have had a freakishly huge cube, but you did have that nifty view of the dumpster. I guess that counts for something anyway.

jcc0621

05-15-2009, 10:33 PM

( Hopefully it makes up for the refrigerator incident”)

I hope this means you are going to tell us about the "refrigerator incident":confused3

The Hippy Dippy Pool{/QUOTE]

THis is my DS's FAVORITE part of Pop. WHen I tried to talk he and DH into upgrading to a mod this year I got thoroughly outvoted:laughing:

[QUOTE=GreatBiscuit;31828793], plane tickets were running around $450 each.

:scared:

reading that the time frame from the plane landing to the bus reaching the resort averages around 90 minutes

That sounds about right ::yes::

It’s very hush-hush you know

popcorn::

Coming up on Episode 39 – Well…..um…..I haven’t decided yet. How’s that for forward thinking?

popcorn::popcorn::

brookelizabeth

05-16-2009, 12:04 AM

I recall the refridgerator incident with SIL Tammy.

Tammy and First Lady Mrs. Biscuit are twin sisters. One day Tammy was bent over at the fridge and in walks GB seeing a familar heiny at the fridge.

Unfortunatly that was a twin heiny...and he found out about 0.8 seconds after a little squeeze on said heiny...OOPS!

There ya go GB - did I remember it pretty well?

SCORE on extra days! Extra days at Disney surpasses a Studio DVC. We stayed for one night at Pop in November. It was even prettier in person. It's a really, really neat resort. And has some really beautiful parts! The only thing I didn't like was the INSANITY of the food court during peak meal hours. It's flooded with people, strollers, kids climbing and laying everywhere.

But the choices at the food court are awesome. Plus, you can get frozen Cokes in your refillable mug there! Hello, yummy! Just be prepared for mayhem at peak meal times.

That one had me cracking up. Oh, BTW, I FINALLY watched your You Tube clip on the resort tour and had to smile at the “Finding the Sippy Cup in the Cupboard” scene. The “bring with” part reminded me of when I first met Tracy and for the longest time would crack up over the whole “with” thing. Now that I’ve been in the family for 12 years and spent a year living in Minnesota, it’s grown on me. Of course she still finds plenty to crack up about when it comes to my Texan dialect. (Particularly when I refer to the thing you push around the grocery store as a “buggy”.)

Me too!

I am SO stoked about this trip, I can’t hardly stand it.

When the first person commented on how Minnesotans ended our sentences with prepositions, I was so confused. But yep. We end our sentences all the time with...with! :goodvibes

I don't recall saying it in the sippy cup in the cabinet scene-but I'm guessing it went something like "Oh, that's ours, I better bring it with."

It's a cart GB!

People from Wisconsin call drinking fountains bubblers. Now THAT is weird.

Disneymom3304

05-16-2009, 10:33 AM

I am so happy you chose POP!:thumbsup2 My DD5 love love loves the Hippy Dippy Pool!:lovestruc We just returned from the POP and we had another great stay! I am so excited for your daughters they are going to love it! On a side note make sure you have some time to stop by the arcade, my daughter loved it in there too! Enjoy!:woohoo:

whogirl'smom

05-16-2009, 01:48 PM

We thought Pop was great when we stayed there two years ago. DD was 6 and enjoyed everything! We were in the 50's section and swam at the bowling pin pool most of the time, except when dh took dd over to try out the Hippy Dippy. They both decided it was too crowded that day and returned to our never-crowded bowling pin. Also, the food court had lots and lots of options with the dining plan!:thumbsup2

I can't believe you're just a month away--waiting till Dec. is pure torture here!

Backstage_Gal

05-16-2009, 02:27 PM

What'ya kbow, I worked at POP for about 1 1/2 years. Stuff like that happens when you work at a place for 37 years. Anyway, very cool place, you'll love it!

Try the adult breakfast platter and the Chciken meditteranian flatbread..

chicagoshannon

05-17-2009, 08:41 AM

leaving at o'dark thirty before the butt crack of dawn (haven't heard those phrases is a while but they made me chuckle!) will be tough but it's not like you'll be able to sleep that night anyway so might as well be on your way!

bedillamouse

05-17-2009, 05:07 PM

Well let life interfere with Dis surfing and GB post not 1 but 3 new posts! Our family has no plans (as of yet I'm still working on DH) as to when we'll go back to WDW but I'm feeling the excitement of your family's trip. I'm so excited for your girls to experience it all.

Now I do have to give you kuddos....whether you are still in "Basics" or in the more advanced levels of training at least you know you need training...my DH on the other hand still believes he is in charge of all that happens in our house. :confused3 Did I mention that we have 2 girls.....yeah he's so not in charge....in fact he's just being dragged along by one hand on the good days.
But that's okay cuz both girls are daddy's girls and we all love him so we let him think he's in charge!:love:

Another great update!

jcc0621

05-17-2009, 05:13 PM

Here, here! Where is MTK of late?

She's been around, just busy.

java

05-17-2009, 06:16 PM

Oh how fun! Another trip in the works. Too bad we'll miss by one day! we get there on the 27th.

(now with the 4/3 deal I somehow worked our once in a lifetime BWCL last year into a new week there again! BUT HONEY WE'RE SAVING LIKE $2100!! I worked my magic and here we come again)

We have yet to try a budget. Although the Pop would be our choice. I can't wait to hear how it goes. I also have to do some backround reading last I stopped you were on the last day of the honeymoon trip and now there are DAUGHTERS! I have some major catching up to do!

Mrs. The King

05-17-2009, 09:21 PM

She's been around, just busy.

I'm here!! I wanted to be funny about the POP century plans, But really I am just happy for the Buttery Biscuits.

We love POP I think I would pick that even if I won the lotto. It seems like home to us. We are actually in ASMU this time around, and I feel like I cheating on pop.

:woohoo:

jcc0621

05-17-2009, 10:16 PM

I'm here!! I wanted to be funny about the POP century plans, But really I am just happy for the Buttery Biscuits.

We love POP I think I would pick that even if I won the lotto. It seems like home to us. We are actually in ASMU this time around, and I feel like I cheating on pop.

:woohoo:

Hi :wave2:

All7OfUs

05-18-2009, 02:06 AM

Great to see MTK hasn't been banned!

Also, thanks brookelizabeth for the explanation-

reminds me of a similar incident involving a cousin of my husband around a dark campfire. I'm sure he was just as shocked as Tammy when someone reached out and fondled his leg!! :scared1::scared1:

Holy Cow, I was mortified!

joleen76

05-18-2009, 11:04 AM

If the girls get their heart set on going to the Magic Kingdom, I do not want to have to face the potential meltdown that would erupt when having to explain that we can’t because we already visited Epcot. One thing having two daughters has taught me is that the more drama you can avoid, the better. [/B]

This is not only true for just girls. Our greatest meltdown was in DHS then MGM Studios...picture my DS now 9 but was 4 then. After 4 days of Disney in the HEAT just all of a sudden throwing himself down on the pavement screaming. :scared1: It was one of those moments you almost say.."that's not my kid" He was just too hot and needed a break, but didn't say anything to me about being hot or tired. Oh well I learned a lot that year on my plans for touring!

Picking the POP!

I had to laugh at this one...even snorted a bit of my coffee too. Am I the only one who see's a little boy using his finger to dig for gold? Maybe I'm just warped!

Great update...as always tuned in for the next. popcorn::

Mrs. The King

05-18-2009, 12:00 PM

mrp4352

05-18-2009, 01:07 PM

I think everyone's covered the wonders of Pop for you. But I wanted to remind you to keep checking your fares on SW. If the rate goes down, call and have them move it to the lower rate. They'll take the extra funds and put them on account for you to use sometime in the next year!

GreatBiscuit

05-18-2009, 03:57 PM

This is my DS's FAVORITE part of Pop. When I tried to talk he and DH into upgrading to a mod this year I got thoroughly outvoted :laughing: Awesome! I can't wait to get there and see the place in person!

I recall the refridgerator incident with SIL Tammy.

Tammy and First Lady Mrs. Biscuit are twin sisters. One day Tammy was bent over at the fridge and in walks GB seeing a familar heiny at the fridge.

Unfortunatly that was a twin heiny...and he found out about 0.8 seconds after a little squeeze on said heiny...OOPS!

There ya go GB - did I remember it pretty well? You did good! :thumbsup2

SCORE on extra days! Extra days at Disney surpasses a Studio DVC. :teacher: That's good Disney math right there.

We stayed for one night at Pop in November. It was even prettier in person. It's a really, really neat resort. And has some really beautiful parts! The only thing I didn't like was the INSANITY of the food court during peak meal hours. It's flooded with people, strollers, kids climbing and laying everywhere.

But the choices at the food court are awesome. Plus, you can get frozen Cokes in your refillable mug there! Hello, yummy! Just be prepared for mayhem at peak meal times. Good to know! Thanks!

It's a cart GB! You got it. :sad2:

People from Wisconsin call drinking fountains bubblers. Now THAT is weird.:lmao:

I am so happy you chose POP!:thumbsup2 My DD5 love love loves the Hippy Dippy Pool!:lovestruc We just returned from the POP and we had another great stay! I am so excited for your daughters they are going to love it! On a side note make sure you have some time to stop by the arcade, my daughter loved it in there too! Enjoy!:woohoo:I’m definitely happy we went with this one. The more I hear about it, the more I know we’ll love it!

We thought Pop was great when we stayed there two years ago. DD was 6 and enjoyed everything! We were in the 50's section and swam at the bowling pin pool most of the time, except when dh took dd over to try out the Hippy Dippy. They both decided it was too crowded that day and returned to our never-crowded bowling pin. Also, the food court had lots and lots of options with the dining plan!:thumbsup2 My youngest really likes the pictures of the Bowling Pin pool because she loves Wii bowling. REALLY loves Wii bowling. Have you ever been beaten at video game by a 5 year old? It’s a bummer, let me tell you. But I’m not bitter. Cause I’m the dad and I let her win. Yeah. That’s my story.

I can't believe you're just a month away--waiting till Dec. is pure torture here! I can’t WAIT. I remember back when we booked and June seemed like a lifetime away. It really does go by quickly though.

GreatBiscuit

05-18-2009, 04:00 PM

What'ya kbow, I worked at POP for about 1 1/2 years. Stuff like that happens when you work at a place for 37 years. Anyway, very cool place, you'll love it! Awesome!

Try the adult breakfast platter and the Chciken meditteranian flatbread..Thanks for the tip! Will do.

leaving at o'dark thirty before the butt crack of dawn (haven't heard those phrases is a while but they made me chuckle!) will be tough but it's not like you'll be able to sleep that night anyway so might as well be on your way! Now that much is true. They really nailed it with that “I’m too excited to sleep!” commercial.

Well let life interfere with Dis surfing and GB post not 1 but 3 new posts! Our family has no plans (as of yet I'm still working on DH) as to when we'll go back to WDW but I'm feeling the excitement of your family's trip. I'm so excited for your girls to experience it all. Thanks! They are anxious every night to mark another day off of our countdown poster.

Now I do have to give you kuddos....whether you are still in "Basics" or in the more advanced levels of training at least you know you need training...my DH on the other hand still believes he is in charge of all that happens in our house. :confused3 Did I mention that we have 2 girls.....yeah he's so not in charge....in fact he's just being dragged along by one hand on the good days.
But that's okay cuz both girls are daddy's girls and we all love him so we let him think he's in charge!:love: That just had me cracking up.

She's been around, just busy. Gotcha! I’m so happy MTK stopped by a few posts down!

Oh how fun! Another trip in the works. Too bad we'll miss by one day! we get there on the 27th. :eek:

(now with the 4/3 deal I somehow worked our once in a lifetime BWCL last year into a new week there again! BUT HONEY WE'RE SAVING LIKE $2100!! I worked my magic and here we come again) You can’t argue with that logic!

We have yet to try a budget. Although the Pop would be our choice. I can't wait to hear how it goes. I also have to do some backround reading last I stopped you were on the last day of the honeymoon trip and now there are DAUGHTERS! I have some major catching up to do! Glad to have you reading along. :welcome:

I'm here!! I wanted to be funny about the POP century plans, But really I am just happy for the Buttery Biscuits.

We love POP I think I would pick that even if I won the lotto. It seems like home to us. We are actually in ASMU this time around, and I feel like I cheating on pop.

:woohoo:Thanks MTK! We are definitely looking forward to our first stay on property.

Great to see MTK hasn't been banned!

Also, thanks brookelizabeth for the explanation-

reminds me of a similar incident involving a cousin of my husband around a dark campfire. I'm sure he was just as shocked as Tammy when someone reached out and fondled his leg!! :scared1::scared1:

Holy Cow, I was mortified! Glad I’m not the only one! :rolleyes1

This is not only true for just girls. Our greatest meltdown was in DHS then MGM Studios...picture my DS now 9 but was 4 then. After 4 days of Disney in the HEAT just all of a sudden throwing himself down on the pavement screaming. :scared1: It was one of those moments you almost say.."that's not my kid" He was just too hot and needed a break, but didn't say anything to me about being hot or tired. Oh well I learned a lot that year on my plans for touring! We learned quite a bit on our “Training Run”. I’ll be detailing all of that soon.

I had to laugh at this one...even snorted a bit of my coffee too. Am I the only one who see's a little boy using his finger to dig for gold? Maybe I'm just warped! I hadn’t gone there….but of course

:rotfl: We know it is just a matter of time :lmao: :rolleyes1

I think everyone's covered the wonders of Pop for you. But I wanted to remind you to keep checking your fares on SW. If the rate goes down, call and have them move it to the lower rate. They'll take the extra funds and put them on account for you to use sometime in the next year!:welcome: Thanks for the tip! I’ll definitely re-check their site.

coffeehousemom

05-18-2009, 04:38 PM

wheww I just got thru the entire post..... loving it!!!

Just awesome to see the world from back in our kidhood times. I just picked up a coffeetable style book of the Magic Kingdom & Epcot from the late 80's. Morgan I sat down to look at it & she was amazed at the differences from then to now.

We stayed at POP back in Jan. it was great. Kid have already told us that;s the "only" place to stay.
:banana:

GreatBiscuit

05-18-2009, 09:58 PM

wheww I just got thru the entire post..... loving it!!!Thanks and :welcome:

Just awesome to see the world from back in our kidhood times. I just picked up a coffeetable style book of the Magic Kingdom & Epcot from the late 80's. Morgan I sat down to look at it & she was amazed at the differences from then to now.I love seeing how the place has changed over teh years. It's amazing just how differnent The World is now compared to even 10 years ago.

We stayed at POP back in Jan. it was great. Kid have already told us that;s the "only" place to stay.
:banana:We can't wait to see it!

GreatBiscuit

05-18-2009, 09:59 PM

UPDATE 06-11-09: I’ve updated this page with new info on each cast member, so if you’re already read through it once, it may help to go back over it.
_____________________________

Thanks for all the posts and comments! After careful deliberation, I have decided to feature the season seven cast in this episode of Biscuit’s Grand Adventure. You already know the what, the when, the where and the how. Logically, the next piece of intelligence needed is The Who. (No I’m not going to start singing “Tommy” but you are welcome to hum it quietly to yourself.) Without further adieu, I give you…us.

GreatBiscuit – I’m not sure if there is much to share that you do not already know, but here goes. I’m the planner, organizer, chief guide and visionary of this particular outing. I have an unfortunate propensity towards self injury, love all things meat, and sometimes startle those in close proximity for no good reason. When it comes to Disney I tend to be a bit nostalgic, an idealist, and a dreamer.

I love both reading and writing and count Barnes and Noble equally among my most favorite and most dreaded shopping destinations. (Love their stuff, dread checking out.) Another random factoid - I don’t care much for coffee, and I prefer salty snacks to sweet. (Which I guess makes me a bit of an anomaly around here.)

Relating to non-Disney things, I am a bit of a cynic and usually have a wisecrack on deck, even when it is not all that appropriate. Like at graduations, weddings and funerals, where I seem to come up with my best material and must suffer through stifling a laugh. Although there are times when I simply cannot help myself. When Tracy graduated from college, it was the first year they held graduation ceremonies in the school’s new multi-million dollar, we’ll beg for money till you die to pay for it, Super Duper Mega-Gym. After standing in the bleachers and singing the National Anthem to open the graduation ceremony, I couldn’t help but yell out “Play Ball!” Which was fun for me, but earned a disapproving glance or two. I did notice at my sister Karlee’s graduation in the same gym some 8 years later that they no longer play the National Anthem as the opening song. You see kids, it’s true. Change starts with you.

I am most looking forward to: my daughters' first WDW experience, my first stay on property, Chef Mickey’s, 'Ohana, first visit to Animal Kingdom, Soarin.

First Lady Biscuit – Tacy loves Disney movies and music. When we got married, we were already well on our way to a fully stocked Disney Movie collection, just from the videos she bought in college. Tracy teaches Pre-K at a local elementary school and after five years, is hoping to move back to higher grade level.

Tracy has been to “The World” twice. Her first trip was when she was 13 years old. She drove down with her family and stayed off site. They did several things in Florida, including a one day trip to the Magic Kingdom. If that sounds vaguely familiar, I would refer to season one of this tale. In fact, it turns out that her family was there the exact same summer as mine. We have been unable to verify the specific dates either of us was at the MK, but it is possible we were there the same day and didn’t even know it. I like to think that at some point, we were in the same queue or watching the Carousel of Progress at the same time. (A long shot I know, but I figure based on school scheduling, there’s a 1.2 percent chance. And like I said, when it comes to Disney, I tend to be a dreamer.) Her second visit has been thoroughly chronicled within the confines of this trip report.

Tracy is also looking forward to seeing Disney through the eyes of the girls, a first visit to Animal Kingdom, staying on site, and (hopefully) experiencing Disney the way it was intended.

Our twelfth anniversary is just a couple of weeks after we return so we will be celebrating that while at The World. I’ve been truly blessed to have married my best friend, my soul mate, and someone who can put up with my shenanigans.

Tahlia - DD (ALMOST 7) – (She usually goes by Tahli so think Polly with a T, and for her full name, think Polly with a T + uh at the end.) I usually refer to Tahli as “Princess” and she lives up to it in every way. From her pink walled room, to her pile of dress up clothes, she LOVES princesses of every shape size and color. Tahli will turn seven a week after we get back home. She shares a birthday with First Lady Biscuit, so we will be celebrating them while we are there.

Some of the things that Tahli is most looking forward to include It’s a Small World, Peter Pan’s Flight, the Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Soarin, and the Princess Story Book Breakfast. She is also VERY excited about staying at the Pop Century and can’t wait to hit up the Hippy Dippy pool.

Hailee (5) – Most days I refer to Hailee as either Hailee Bug or Hailee Jo. (Which bears no resemblance to her middle name, but I like the way it sounds. It’s a Texas thing.) Hailee is our comic relief. Whereas Tahli wants to ensure that everyone is happy, Hailee lives to make everyone laugh. She’s the nickname queen and gives nicknames to everyone she encounters. (I’m Big Boy by the way….which has earned more than one odd look at the grocery store, let me tell you.) Hailee is most looking forward to Pooh's Honey Pots, It's a Small World, the Princess Story Book Breakfast, and SpectroMagic (which she loves to watch on our honeymoon video.)

Hailee’s birthday was a couple of months ago, but to avoid sibling conflict, we will also be celebrating her birthday while we are there.

Papa – Previously introduced in this narrative as Dad, Papa will be joining us for our first four days. This will be Papa’s first stay on property, and his first visit back since the summer of 1990. Papa was as disappointed as I am at the rehab of Space Mountain. Papa is currently dealing with a pinched nerve in his neck so we are not sure how much he can ride.

Papa teaches high school math is the king of time share sales presentations. (I am NOT telling him about DVC!) He is teaching summer school this year so we had to work the trip so that he only misses two days of school.

Nana – Previously introduced as mom, Nana is also going to be joining us for the first four days and has not been to “The World” since 1990. Nana has graciously volunteered to take the girls on the dreaded Teacups. Nana is looking forward to pretty much everything, especially 'Ohana & Le Cellier.

Nana teaches special ed, and is also teaching summer school.

Nana and Papa’s actual anniversary is the first night we are at Disney.

Biscuit’s Nephew Preston (5) – Preston is a ball of energy who rarely stops moving. When he and my girls get together, crazy things can happen. He’ll be coming with my parents for the first four days and staying with them at their room at the Pop Century. I'm not sure what he's most looking forward to, but I'm fairly certain it involves speed. For those you who have followed this narrative from the onset, Preston is Lynnlee’s oldest. He was recently joined by a younger brother, Cooper. He recently told Nana that he’s saved $100 so he can buy THOUSANDS of souvenirs.

Aunt Janna – You may remember Aunt Janna from our early excursions. She is also the one who saved our honeymoon. Recently Aunt Janna took a job in Florida and returned to the Sunshine state. She will be taking a break from her lawyering to join us for our first three days. Aunt Janna’s goal is get everyone in the family to move to Florida. (She already has my vote!)

So here’s the plan. My group of four, my parents, and Preston will all leave here on Thursday and head to H-town. We’ll be spending the night at a motel near Houston Hobby, then flying out EARLY on Friday morning. The seven of us will then check in and get ourselves settled. Aunt Jana will come up Friday afternoon to join us for dinner and some park touring. Jana will stay until Sunday evening and then head back home. My parents and nephew will be heading out Tuesday morning, and the remainder of Biscuit clan will be heading out Friday evening.

Well, that’s about it as far as casting goes. Oh, there is our Dear Dog Pippy. (Known to First Lady Biscuit as “Pipster”, known to me as “Hairy Mongrel Beast”) We will be boarding the little heifer at the vet’s office while we are gone. (Maybe….we’re working on a possible canine alternative.)

I’ll be posting photos as part of the Day 1 TR. Until then, just picture 8 smiling faces eager to skip down Main Street.

Coming up on Episode 39 – Everything old is new.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31934940&postcount=467)

Mrs. The King

05-18-2009, 11:16 PM

:) :flower3: princess: :wizard: ;) :love: :3dglasses :blush:

There's 8 for you!!

All7OfUs

05-19-2009, 06:07 AM

8 Happy Biscuits!- ready to skip down Main Street. What could be any better??

Your dog sounds fabulous...

and I"m not humming "Tommy" HA!

coffeehousemom

05-19-2009, 08:26 AM

hmm methinks I have meet your kids before oh wait I have they sound like mine... Morgan was quite the "princess" till she turned 8 then she found Hanna & HSM. I to have a "Bug" we have called DS that since birth. Well it started out as Bugaboo. The name thing is also a Bug thing (he calls my sister moose butt) long story.

Can't wait till Thus.

PrincessV

05-19-2009, 10:14 AM

“Now, when you book four nights we’ll give you three nights free.” What did they just say?
Catchy, wasn't it?! :thumbsup2

I didn’t care too much about non-expiring tickets either so this left me with on thing. “To Hop or Not to Hop. That is the Question.” After mulling it over for about 2.873432 seconds, I decided to Hop.
Oh good! I'm all about the hopping; a certain dramatically-inclined 7 year-old boy being my reason. ;)

At the time we booked our resort package, plane tickets were running around $450 each.
:scared1: :faint: But you're practically next-door to FL! That's insane.

During Spring Break, I got an email from Southwest Airlines about a Fun Saver deal, and was able to book our tickets for $198 round trip each out of Houston Hobby.
:yay: Phew!

(I’m Big Boy by the way….which has earned more than one odd look at the grocery store, let me tell you.)
:lmao:

A pleasure to meet the Biscuit's. :wave:

Backstage_Gal

05-19-2009, 11:11 AM

GB, only 30 more days, woohoo!

Glad you started your pre-trippie, pleasure to meet the travelling clan. :wave:

AshClan

05-19-2009, 01:54 PM

I am excited for you GB! I can't believe how long you've gone without a trip to the World, and you are going to LOVE seeing everything through the girls' eyes! On-site is just the icing on the cake! Watch out for that Hippy Dippy Pool, though. They are famous for mid-day closings due to kiddie "accidents" :eek: You may find yourselves re-directed to the Bowling Pin every once in a while :rolleyes:

It will be fun counting down the days with you, and I can't WAIT to hear all about it when you get back!!

GreatBiscuit

05-19-2009, 05:49 PM

:) :flower3: princess: :wizard: ;) :love: :3dglasses :blush: There's 8 for you!! Thanks MTK!

8 Happy Biscuits!- ready to skip down Main Street. What could be any better??

Your dog sounds fabulous...

and I"m not humming "Tommy" HA!I can’t think of too many things that quite compare! I’ve referred to our dog as many things, but I don’t think fabulous has ever been one of them. (She was an only child for a while and is UBER spoiled.)

hmm methinks I have meet your kids before oh wait I have they sound like mine... Morgan was quite the "princess" till she turned 8 then she found Hanna & HSM. I to have a "Bug" we have called DS that since birth. Well it started out as Bugaboo. The name thing is also a Bug thing (he calls my sister moose butt) long story.

Can't wait till Thus. Awesome! Everyone needs a Bug. It just rolls off of the tongue.

GB, only 30 more days, woohoo!

Glad you started your pre-trippie, pleasure to meet the travelling clan. :wave: DOING THE 30 DAY HAPPY DANCE! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOO!

I am excited for you GB! I can't believe how long you've gone without a trip to the World, and you are going to LOVE seeing everything through the girls' eyes! On-site is just the icing on the cake! Watch out for that Hippy Dippy Pool, though. They are famous for mid-day closings due to kiddie "accidents" :eek: You may find yourselves re-directed to the Bowling Pin every once in a while :rolleyes:

It will be fun counting down the days with you, and I can't WAIT to hear all about it when you get back!!Thanks AC! I’ve heard the horror stories of “secondary cargo” contamination. We’ll be sure to look before we swim!

Catchy, wasn't it?! :thumbsup2 You know it!

Oh good! I'm all about the hopping; a certain dramatically-inclined 7 year-old boy being my reason. ;) I understand!

:scared1: :faint: But you're practically next-door to FL! That's insane. I know, I couldn’t believe the prices when I pulled them up the first time.

A pleasure to meet the Biscuit's. :wave: As we say around these parts, right back at’cha.

Millie12591

05-19-2009, 06:18 PM

GreatBiscuit

05-19-2009, 07:26 PM

Sorry I'm late! Got here as soon I could and I can't wait to catch up! I haven't read much of you yet, but just in your comments to other people's TR, I'm thinkiiiiing I'm in for a real gut bustin time. ::yes:: Howdy and :welcome: Glad to have you aboard! I don't know if we'll bust your gut, but hopefully we can make it quiver a bit!

All7OfUs

05-20-2009, 01:46 AM

Thanks MTK!

I can’t think of too many things that quite compare! I’ve referred to our dog as many things, but I don’t think fabulous has ever been one of them. (She was an only child for a while and is UBER spoiled.)

I was being facetious, if that's allowed. I generally don't like dogs (I know, I know, let the flames begin!), but yours did sound over the top "uber spoiled". HA! But, having a family really is all about compromising, isn't it?

GreatBiscuit

05-20-2009, 11:44 PM

I was being facetious, if that's allowed. I generally don't like dogs (I know, I know, let the flames begin!), but yours did sound over the top "uber spoiled". HA! But, having a family really is all about compromising, isn't it?It is most certainly allowed! As is sarcasm, irony, allegory, and jesting. (But no jousting unless you clear it vith mods and warn me ahead of time so I can bring my inhaler.). To me, the intra-post bantering is as much fun or more than the actual TR. Our dog is an odd critter. Sometimes I swear she is a cat in a dog's body. She listens when she feels like it and seems to think she owns the place. But you gotta love the little heifer. At least that is what the first lady keeps telling me.

brookelizabeth

05-21-2009, 01:47 AM

(I’m Big Boy by the way….which has earned more than one odd look at the grocery store, let me tell you.)

:rotfl2: Oh my! :rotfl2:

Pleased to meet the Biscuit clan, sounds like a really fun trip with all the family!! :thumbsup2 I'm going to be taking tips too for my upcoming family trip.

GreatBiscuit

05-21-2009, 09:56 PM

:rotfl2: Oh my! :rotfl2:

Pleased to meet the Biscuit clan, sounds like a really fun trip with all the family!! :thumbsup2 I'm going to be taking tips too for my upcoming family trip.Thanks & howdy back at'cha.

GreatBiscuit

05-21-2009, 10:01 PM

Time is a strange thing. On the one hand, we seem to never have enough of it, yet on the other, we seem eager for it to move a bit faster. While each of use loves the timelessness of Walt Disney World, it is a place which remains in constant motion. With each passing year things change. Perhaps it is not that noticeable when trips are spaced close together. Aside from the occasional new attraction, there is isn’t much difference between visits.

Contrast that with spending 12 years between visits and the effects are far more profound. Although I have been to the parks six times, in a way, I feel like this will be my first trip. Let’s take a look at what is new since the last time I visited.

The journey must begin somewhere, so for the purposes of this exercise, we’ll begin in the Magic Kingdom. Emerging onto Main Street will be a familiar, yet new experience. Many of the shops have changed or relocated. And the last time I saw the castle without a hideous pink cake shell on it was in 1991. Some of the things on Main Street I have never done, include riding the vehicles, seeing the horse barn, checking out the barbershop, eating at Casey’s, stopping in Town Hall, and exploring the alleys.

At the end of Main Street, if one turns to the right, you will find yourself walking past the Tomorrowland Noodle Station. This particular eatery served up some sort of pizza/salad combo the last time we were there. Moving into Tomorrowland proper, you come across the home of my first ever Magic Kingdom attraction. Yet, gone are the projector screens and cattle chute rails of Circle Vision, instead we have a new (to me) attraction Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor. Moving on, my old friend Delta Dream Flight has been replaced by Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin. (Which I am TOTALLY looking forward to trying out.) Across the way, Mission to Mars has changed twice since my last visit and is now home to Stitch’s Great Escape. My old friends the Carousel of Progress, Rocketships and Speedway are still there. Yet my favorite two attractions, Space Mountain and Tomorrowland Transit Authority are down for rehab. Then there is Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café which I hear has excellent chicken, but I have never been in there.

Continuing around the park, we have Mickey’s Toontown which I have never visited. Mickey’s House, Minnie’s House, Donald’s Boat, Goofy’s Barnstormer and the Judges Tent are all new to me. Passing by the cursed teacups, we have The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh to the left and Pooh’s Playful Spot to the right. These are also new to me.

In the heart of Fantasyland lies Snow White’s Scary Adventures which I have not been on since the rehab, and two icons, Dumbo’s Flying Elephants and Cinderella’s Golden Carousel. These I have also never ridden, despite them being there on my six previous journeys. Ariel has gone and built herself a grotto and Pinocchio had the poor judgment to tamper with my glorious Figaro Fries.

Mickey’s Philharmagic has replace the Lion King show from our last trip and Peter Pan Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World are still sending their familiar ships through timeless and beloved journeys. Does the ski-chalet still stand at the top of the hill where once the Sky-way docked? I don’t know.

The Hall of Presidents is closed for rehab to add our 44th President, yet the Haunted Mansion is still as dusty as it was 12 years ago. The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer island remain attractions I have never been on. The Big Thunder Mountain is still an anticipated favorite, while Splash Mountain is an attraction I have only seen from the outside. I’ve never jammed with the County Bears, but hope to catch a show soon. I’ve always wanted to stop a take a few shots at the Frontierland Shooting arcade, but never seem to have the time or quarters necessary.

Many have complained about the new management at the Tiki Birds, but having never experienced the old management, I guess I won’t be qualified to compare. The Pirates of Caribbean have some new buccaneers, and Aladdin has flown his carpets into the neighborhood. Lucky for me, the Jungles are still open for cruising and the Tree House is still there for climbing.

Finally, there is Wishes, which I have yet to experience in a format other than YouTube. (Somehow I think the real thing will be better.) Add it all up and you get a couple of dozen attractions and places of interest in the Magic Kingdom alone which are completely new to me.

Leaving the Magic Kingdom, let us hop the southern monorail. If I were to hop the resort monorail, it would be a first. I’ve never ridden it or even been inside a Disney Resort, save for barreling through the Contemporary on the Express Monorail. Arriving at Epcot, let us survey our options. They only thing currently in Future World that I have been on is Living with the Land. The only thing currently in World Showcase I have been on is Maelstrom. Every other attraction in Future World has been replaced or rehabbed. As to World Showcase, Norway is the only pavilion I have ever visited.

If we were to hop over the Disney Hollywood Studios, you would discover that in this park, I have yet to partake of Rockin Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, Lights Action Motor Cars, Muppet Vision 3D, One Man’s Dream, Journey Into Narnia, Playhouse Disney Live, and of course American Idol Experience and Toy Story Mania. The only restaurant I’ve ever eaten at here is the Backlot Express. Saddest of all, I’ve never seen Fantasmic.

As to Animal Kingdom, they were still building the thing in 1997.

Other new experiences for this trip will be: first time staying on property, first time shuttling from MCO to the parks, first time on a Disney Bus (didn’t say all of them were great), first time on Disney Dining, first time to EVER use FastPass, first time to use PhotoPass, and first time to write a tip report…..sort of.

Well I guess that about covers it. I’m sure there will be many other exciting firsts which present themselves along the way. But for now, I am happy to know that even though at 6 completed trips, I may technically be “Disney Veteran”, I’m still going to essentially experience the parks for the first time.

Coming up on Episode 40 - Pearl Harbor and Donald Duck.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31984784&postcount=480)

chicagoshannon

05-21-2009, 10:21 PM

chicagoshannon

05-21-2009, 10:22 PM

Backstage_Gal

05-21-2009, 11:50 PM

GB, I am so excited for you! I hope you have a fabulous trip! (and not the constant downpours we have had all week, ughh!)

joleen76

05-22-2009, 10:47 AM

Then there is Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café which I hear has excellent chicken, but I have never been in there.

DH & I Love the mushrooms on the condiment bar. You should try them if you like mushrooms!

Pinocchio had the poor judgment to tamper with my glorious Figaro Fries.

I know right! They are just bad now. :sad2:

Does the ski-chalet still stand at the top of the hill where once the Sky-way docked? I don’t know.

No can't say that I've seen this.

I’ve always wanted to stop a take a few shots at the Frontierland Shooting arcade, but never seem to have the time or quarters necessary.

This is a everytime we go to Disney request of the boys, although we have yet to actually do it. We are always on our way somewhere etc. Also, honestly, I just can't see paying for something to do in a park I have already paid to get into. You know?

Finally, there is Wishes, which I have yet to experience in a format other than YouTube. (Somehow I think the real thing will be better.)

This is my favorite part. Also watch for what they call the Kiss goodnight. It's different patterns and colors that are shown up on the castle. Ask a cast member what time it is scheduled for. It's different than the regular rotation of colors/patterns. It goes off a couple of times before park closing and then again about 2-3 am. We were lucky enough to see this when we stayed at the Contemporary on our honeymoon. No big deal if you miss it, but it was kinda cool.

I can't wait to hear your perspective on everything so many years later.

PrincessV

05-22-2009, 11:35 AM

WOW!!! :eek: I am so excited now - watching (okay, belatedly reading about - whatever) guests experience new things is always so much fun. This is going to be a terrific trip! :goodvibes

GreatBiscuit

05-22-2009, 07:18 PM

When's the last time you were on Carousel of progress? I'm pretty sure they adjusted some of the scenes at some point and changed the song.

Also my 2 year old thought it was VERY thrilling to ride a bus. She talked about it all week long and we finally gave in and took her.

I never experienced the original Tiki birds eithere. My parents thought they were annoying then too.

We took a ride on the Liberty Belle Riverboat last week and it was very nice. I recommend it. We went on our date night and it helped us to slow down and just take things in. :) The last time we were there, they changed it from the new song back to the old song. (Which I lovingly refer to as the Old New and New Old songs repsectively.) My youngest is also looking forward to the whloe bus thing. As to Tikis and Riverboats, I hope to take in both.

GB, I am so excited for you! I hope you have a fabulous trip! (and not the constant downpours we have had all week, ughh!) Thanks BSG! I was eyeing the weather and feeling bad for those poor folks on their honeymoon. Hopefully we'll fare better! As to your reason for editing, I concur!

DH & I Love the mushrooms on the condiment bar. You should try them if you like mushrooms! LOVE me some 'shrooms!

This is a everytime we go to Disney request of the boys, although we have yet to actually do it. We are always on our way somewhere etc. Also, honestly, I just can't see paying for something to do in a park I have already paid to get into. You know? Yep, but I figure I'll budget a couple of bucks and call it my Gift to Self for the day. I love shooting the real McCoy so I'm anxios to give these a shot. Hey that's punny.

This is my favorite part. Also watch for what they call the Kiss goodnight. It's different patterns and colors that are shown up on the castle. Ask a cast member what time it is scheduled for. It's different than the regular rotation of colors/patterns. It goes off a couple of times before park closing and then again about 2-3 am. We were lucky enough to see this when we stayed at the Contemporary on our honeymoon. No big deal if you miss it, but it was kinda cool. I've heard this mentioned before. We'll definitely look for it.

WOW!!! :eek: I am so excited now - watching (okay, belatedly reading about - whatever) guests experience new things is always so much fun. This is going to be a terrific trip! :goodvibes Thanks! I can't wait until we're flying East!

All7OfUs

05-23-2009, 05:18 AM

burly

05-24-2009, 10:24 AM

GB sounds like you have lots of 'firsts' to experience with your family. It is going to be great!!!

Millie12591

05-24-2009, 07:10 PM

GB~

You've got nothing to worry about, your wise to the ways of the World now, you've done all the planning, you've dotted every T and crossed every eye, I, I meant I. (he he)
You'll have a blast I just know it! How could you not!?! Your going to WDW and your staying at the Pop! I had so much fun, planning my last trip, it was the part of getting everyone to stick with the plan that gave me the most heartache. :laughing: ;) I thought things over and over and changed Dinning plans a thousand times, but the one thing I didn't change my mind about was staying at the Pop! My kids thought this was going to be a great place, and as it turned out, it was!
My daughter thought the Hippy Dippy pool was sure to be pleasing and she was right, the Pop gives a lot for the young eye to look at and take in, you'll have a blast watching your little one's take it in.
Since your touring AK this time around, y'all can not miss.....the Festival of The Lion King show! It's a total must! You'll absolutely love it and the kids will have a blast, it's a total feast for the eyes! Another something I might add, don't stand behind the camera the whole time taking videos and pictures like I did, I think I missed everything because I was just sure I would never be back there again and so I recorded almost everything.
The next summer when God blessed me with a free stay in kuh-SIM-ee and a free park ticket+hopper, I made sure I took hardly any pics, I just enjoyed doing the parks and allowed myself to take it in, I had a much better time. :yay:
:woohoo: I'm so blessed by your getting to go! I pray that you and your family will be met with blue skies the entire time and that all plans go with out a hitch! And no accidents for the GB! Amen! Oh, BTW, the wall safe in the Pop, it has a.......Key! Wink. Wink. :laughing:

GreatBiscuit

05-25-2009, 10:46 AM

You sound like you've stayed up late nights dreaming about all this. don't worry, I do to! :)

All I can say is that you have soooo much to look forward to, and I'm really, really excited for you!

Keep it comin'! That I have! And I've had a few nightmares about forgotten cameras, oversleeping, rides going donw and sudden monsoons.

GB sounds like you have lots of 'firsts' to experience with your family. It is going to be great!!!Yep! I can't wait!

GB~

You've got nothing to worry about, your wise to the ways of the World now, you've done all the planning, you've dotted every T and crossed every eye, I, I meant I. (he he)
You'll have a blast I just know it! How could you not!?! Your going to WDW and your staying at the Pop! I had so much fun, planning my last trip, it was the part of getting everyone to stick with the plan that gave me the most heartache. :laughing: ;) I thought things over and over and changed Dinning plans a thousand times, but the one thing I didn't change my mind about was staying at the Pop! My kids thought this was going to be a great place, and as it turned out, it was!
My daughter thought the Hippy Dippy pool was sure to be pleasing and she was right, the Pop gives a lot for the young eye to look at and take in, you'll have a blast watching your little one's take it in.We are definitely looking forward to the Pop.
Since your touring AK this time around, y'all can not miss.....the Festival of The Lion King show! It's a total must! You'll absolutely love it and the kids will have a blast, it's a total feast for the eyes! Another something I might add, don't stand behind the camera the whole time taking videos and pictures like I did, I think I missed everything because I was just sure I would never be back there again and so I recorded almost everything.
The next summer when God blessed me with a free stay in kuh-SIM-ee and a free park ticket+hopper, I made sure I took hardly any pics, I just enjoyed doing the parks and allowed myself to take it in, I had a much better time. :yay:I'm looking forward to both Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Musical. I'm sure I'll be divided between real life and the lens.
:woohoo: I'm so blessed by your getting to go! I pray that you and your family will be met with blue skies the entire time and that all plans go with out a hitch! And no accidents for the GB! Amen! Oh, BTW, the wall safe in the Pop, it has a.......Key! Wink. Wink. :laughing:Thanks. I'm definitely doing the countdown dance.

Mrs. The King

05-25-2009, 04:39 PM

GreatBiscuit

05-25-2009, 11:08 PM

I can't believe how much you have to look forward to! That post is an excellent to do list for anyone. You just made me so excited for my trip and gave me a few new destinations.

I can't believe how many changes there has been since 1991! You will have a wonderful time, of course, you are a silver lining kind of guy. :thumbsup2I know! I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. I definitely try to be a silver lining person, even though it doesn't always work out that way. If you happen to bump into the biscuit clan, be sure to say hey!

GreatBiscuit

05-25-2009, 11:17 PM

Carving though the hills of the Ozarks, the country road bore only one vehicle that hot humid August afternoon. A Wonder Bread delivery truck made its way slowly up the hills and around the curves. At the wheel a young man kept one eye on the road, while his mind dreamed of something more. Like most small town boys, he had dreams of a better life, and like most, the realities of his situation were becoming more and more apparent. Rural Arkansas in the 1940’s was not exactly a hotbed of opportunity.

Pulling into town, Walter waved at the usual folks, sitting in their usual spots, going about their usual lives. Nothing about the day made it unique from any other until he happened to pass a window in the town’s square. There, a new poster hung. It’s bright colors and bold wording drew his eye and though he had deliveries yet to make, he stopped and looked to see what it said. To his surprise, it was an announcement that a Navy recruiter would be in town the following day.

This was it! This was his one chance to lay down his delivery hat and get out of this small town. Breaking the news to his parents might be difficult. The war in Europe was going poorly and everyone said it was only a matter of time before America would be drawn into a second world war. Yet Walter knew that this was something he must do.

Inexplicably they took the news better than he thought. The next day Walter and his cousin Perry enlisted and were soon on a train steaming west to California. They were on the way to Navy bootcamp! Over the course of the next six weeks, the two cousins endured the most difficult challenge of their lives. Finally the day arrived they had been looking forward to. The new recruits were to receive their ship assignments! Walter couldn’t wait to see what he would get. He hoped for a carrier, but would settle for a battleship or a destroyer.

The list was finally posted and to his great disappointment, Walter discovered that not only had he not gotten any of those assignments, but instead had drawn a target ship. While everyone else was out preparing for war, he’d be towing targets for ships and planes to practice shooting at. Yet, Walter supposed it could have been worse. Besides, he’d still be at sea and that was all that mattered. The next few months were a time of great excitement. Before long, Walter’s old life in Arkansas faded as if it had been a dream.

In early December the crew got the news that the ship would be putting into port for a few days. Everyone was thrilled! This would be Walter’s first time in port and his first chance to get off the ship in months. The ship docked in Pearl Harbor on the north side of Ford Island. When Sunday morning came, Walter was up early. He had promised his mother he’d be in church every week, and he was on his way topside to catch the shore tender. Little did he know that this promise would save his life.

Just as he reached the deck an explosion rocked the ship. The attack on Pearl Harbor had begun and his ship, the USS Utah was one of the first casualties.

Standing on deck was surreal. Seemingly countless planes buzzed through the air, strafing the deck with machine gun fire and bombing other ships. Immediately after being hit by a torpedo, the Utah began to roll to port. The order was given to abandon ship, but with the ship continuing to roll, there was only one way off. Walter joined his shipmates in climbing upwards to the starboard side of the ship and jumped as far out as he could into the water. Because of the angle of the ship, he was not able to fully clear the side. He felt a sharp pain as he fell and when he hit the water, his legs were on fire.

As he fell, his legs had hit the side of the ship and the barnacles had shred his pants and gouged his legs. He managed to swim the short distance to shore and pulled himself up the bank. He and his shipmates stumbled up the slope and rolled into a drainage ditch. They got themselves as low as they could and had nothing to do but wait and pray.

Suddenly it seemed as if all the air around them was sucked away and a moment later a massive explosion rattled their teeth and left their ears ringing. The Arizona had just gone down.

Miraculously, God heard the prayers of those sailors and when the battle was over they had survived. Walter limped his way to the infirmary and when he arrived, he stopped in his tracks. Before him, the carnage that he saw was beyond comprehension. He looked down at his legs and decided he didn’t need a doctor after all. Turning, Walter joined his crewmates helping others who were trapped and wounded.

Over the course of the next four years, Walter would be in 9 battles, including 5 major battles for which he would earn battle stars. He would receive the purple heart, survive a hurricane, find true love, marry, and fell the call to ministry all before the end of the war. When the Lord would finally call him home over forty years later, he would leave behind a legacy of faith and love.

Today on Ford Island, there are only two ships remaining from the Pearl Harbor attack, the USS Arizona and the USS Utah. While the Arizona receives frequent attention and visitors, the Utah is rarely seen and sits as a quiet memorial to all of those who remain entombed aboard her today. To the crew of the Utah and to all of those who have served our country, I say thank you and God Bless you on this Memorial Day. To my grandfather Walter, you are loved and missed and I look forward to the day when we are all together again.

____________________

We now rejoin our regularly scheduled program. Holidays in America have one thing in common: sales. Memorial day is no different. With an impending trip to The World, it seemed logical to journey forth in a quest to procure our remaining provisions. There were two items which topped the list, a new suitcase and shoes for yours truly. One would think that purchasing a pair of shoes would be a common, easy to execute activity. But when it comes to Great Biscuit, things are never that simple.

I have feet like a duck, namely short and wide. Locating shoes that fit is problematic at best. You would think that quadruple E width shoes would be easy to come by. Let me tell you, they are not. Since I was a wee young dumpling, shoe shopping was an exercise in irritation. If you ever wondered why Donald is always barefoot, he’s not making a fashion statement. It’s simply a difficult and arduous task to locate adequate foot ware. (Now as to why he doesn’t wear pants, I’m afraid I am not qualified to speculate.)

About a year ago, our handy dandy Kohls store began carrying wide width Reeboks. This was a great and joyful discovery in my life. Finally I could shop for shoes without driving halfway to nowhere. Saturday, we headed over and I found to my great delight that not only was there a pair of 4E width Reeboks, they also had a pair of 4E width Nike’s. I also discovered that a 9.5 4E in the former is the exact same size as an 11 4E in latter. Of course I discovered this by cutting off the circulation to my right foot trying to cram it into a size 9.5.

After much staring at the two, I did what every good man does when faced with a shopping decision. I asked my wife and children. They all voted in favor of the Nike so I guess I’m back in fashion. It was bound to happen at some point.

Our next discovery was a 4 piece set of American Tourister luggage, originally $199 with a sign that said Power Hour $74.99. Which was great, except that it wasn’t power hour, they had forgotten to remove the sign. But the kind manager we located followed us over, said “Ouch”, picked up the sign, walked us to the front, and told the clerk to give us the sale price. SCORE.

Then we had our 20% off coupon that came in the mail AND we got 15% Kohls Cash back. Double Score! So we got about 75% off the luggage. And since the shoes were on sale for half of, we got a right nifty deal on them as well.

Have I said that I love Kohls? It’s our favorite place to shop. Well, that about does it for this episode. See you guys on Thursday when we’ll be discussing the finer points of Disney Dining.

Coming up on Episode 41 – Dining Dilemmas

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32030273&postcount=499)

Backstage_Gal

05-25-2009, 11:38 PM

brookelizabeth

05-26-2009, 12:37 AM

Just read the "firsts" post - it will be so fun to be back and see familar things, yet have so much be brand new! And not sure if someone already told you, but yep, they do have the chalet still standing where the skyway was. The World's Largest Fantasyland Stroller Parking is directly below it. The "dock" in Tomorrowland was still there and I believe now Stitch's new dance show is in that area? I think...:confused:

Love your post about your Grandpa. :thumbsup2 And BIG scores on the deals at Kohls!! I just had American Tourister luggage from Kohls-it was a great set, served me well. Well enough to sell it at a garage sale just a few weekends ago - despite MANY trips between NYC and MN. We just had way to much luggage, so some had to go. Good buy!

burly

05-26-2009, 01:24 AM

AW GB beautiful memorial of Grandpa!:hug:
Only Two more sleeps til i'm home in WDW.:cool1:
See ya on the flipside. ;)

All7OfUs

05-26-2009, 01:51 AM

Such a touching, and well-written in memorium! Thanks for the reminder that the country I get to return to permanently someday (because of men like Walter who fought for my privelege to carry a passport saying I can come and go with freedom!), was forged by brave men who sacrificed more than most of will ever know, and take too much for granted!

Both my grandfathers also fought in the War, one was on a ship that was torpedoed, the other won't talk much about his experiences. Also had a great uncle who was with the first wave at Normandy. Again, won't talk AT ALL about that- too much trauma to be relived, I suppose. I think every young man 17 and up should be required to watch Saving Private Ryan.

Great installment!

Liesa

whogirl'smom

05-26-2009, 09:51 AM

I loved your salute to your Grandpa. My uncle was in the Navy during WWII on a battle ship in the Pacific and, luckily, made it through the war with no injuries. He told me he was on the USS Lyric, but I'm not sure if I'm spelling that correctly because I haven't been able to find a record of it.

Yay for wide shoes--dh has wide feet, too. You know what's shaped like wide feet, don'tcha??? CROCS!

Looking forward to hearing about the food plans!

joleen76

05-26-2009, 11:31 AM

I too loved your post about your grandpa. Mine was also in WWII, he was in the big bombers and ended up loosing most of his hearing because of it. I couldn't be more proud of him and he was proud of our country. He's been gone for many years now, but I am like you and can't wait to see him again.

Kohl's rocks! Always a sale going on. Getting down to the 3 week mark for your trip! I'm so excited for you! :cheer2:

Beka

05-26-2009, 08:07 PM

Love the tribute. My great uncle was also at Pearl Harbor, but won't talk about it.

GreatBiscuit

05-26-2009, 08:08 PM

Salutes to Grandpa Walter!

Veterans all over the world. My dad was a POW in a russian camp for 3 years and almost died there. They fed him cabbage water for years. He almost died on the way home on the train. (miraculously, he recovered to conceive me later, LOL).

My uncle was shot in russia in the neck and died. Eeery thing is, there was a big 10 x 20 or something picture in my grandparents house, and a bomb attack singed his picture right in the neck where he got shot. didn't burn it,just singed it right where he got shot. 2 uncles had legs amputated in the war.
I have a couple of great pics of my dad in WW II in uniform and my grandfather from WW I with a spike helmet and sworWhen my browas little, like 3 and 4 and 5, he used to cry, please dont dont let any more bombers come. My parents house got bombed out.
Nobody wants fight in wars. Not my father, not my grandfather, and not my son who is in the airforece now. Let's hope all will work out.

Now back to your regularly scheduled GB report. Cant wait! It's a great big beatifulful tomorrow!

What's for dinner? R the world I mean.The stories of POW's are always the most heart rending. Thanks for sharing! The picture story was both cool and a little eerie. Which I like. A salute back to you for the heroes of BSG clan.

Just read the "firsts" post - it will be so fun to be back and see familar things, yet have so much be brand new! And not sure if someone already told you, but yep, they do have the chalet still standing where the skyway was. The World's Largest Fantasyland Stroller Parking is directly below it. The "dock" in Tomorrowland was still there and I believe now Stitch's new dance show is in that area? I think...:confused: I am so eager for all the newbies that I am virtually counting down hour by hour.

Love your post about your Grandpa. :thumbsup2 And BIG scores on the deals at Kohls!! I just had American Tourister luggage from Kohls-it was a great set, served me well. Well enough to sell it at a garage sale just a few weekends ago - despite MANY trips between NYC and MN. We just had way to much luggage, so some had to go. Good buy!What’s funny is that I had never been in a Kohls before I met my Minnesota gal. I’d never even heard of the place. She introduced me to it in college and BOY was I happy when they started building them down here.

AW GB beautiful memorial of Grandpa!:hug:
Only Two more sleeps til i'm home in WDW.:cool1:
See ya on the flipside. ;)Thanks! Have a GREAT time! Can’t wait to hear all about your trip!

Such a touching, and well-written in memorium! Thanks for the reminder that the country I get to return to permanently someday (because of men like Walter who fought for my privelege to carry a passport saying I can come and go with freedom!), was forged by brave men who sacrificed more than most of will ever know, and take too much for granted! Thanks and here-here.

Both my grandfathers also fought in the War, one was on a ship that was torpedoed, the other won't talk much about his experiences. Also had a great uncle who was with the first wave at Normandy. Again, won't talk AT ALL about that- too much trauma to be relived, I suppose. I think every young man 17 and up should be required to watch Saving Private Ryan.

Great installment!

LiesaI don’t remember my grandfather talking much about it until later in life. Much of the story I learned from grandmother after he passed and from his photo albums and memorabilia.

I loved your salute to your Grandpa. My uncle was in the Navy during WWII on a battle ship in the Pacific and, luckily, made it through the war with no injuries. He told me he was on the USS Lyric, but I'm not sure if I'm spelling that correctly because I haven't been able to find a record of it. Thanks! A big salute to your uncle as well!

Yay for wide shoes--dh has wide feet, too. You know what's shaped like wide feet, don'tcha??? CROCS!

Looking forward to hearing about the food plans! Haven’t ever tried crocs. Just can’t bring myself to do it.

I too loved your post about your grandpa. Mine was also in WWII, he was in the big bombers and ended up loosing most of his hearing because of it. I couldn't be more proud of him and he was proud of our country. He's been gone for many years now, but I am like you and can't wait to see him again. Another salute out to your grandpa!

Kohl's rocks! Always a sale going on. Getting down to the 3 week mark for your trip! I'm so excited for you! :cheer2: 3 weeks and a couple of days. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOPIDY !WOOOOOOOOOOOO!

GreatBiscuit

05-26-2009, 08:11 PM

Love the tribute. My great uncle was also at Pearl Harbor, but won't talk about it.Thanks! Another Salute out to your Great Uncle!

Mrs. The King

05-26-2009, 09:15 PM

Three cheers for an American Hero. Your grandfather sounds like an amazing man. What a great guy to have as an ancestor for your children.

The Donald references had me :rotfl: Loved it! Is that how I will recognize you in Disney, The Donald with pants on? ;)

GreatBiscuit

05-26-2009, 09:25 PM

Three cheers for an American Hero. Your grandfather sounds like an amazing man. What a great guy to have as an ancestor for your children.He was definitely a hero!

The Donald references had me :rotfl: Loved it! Is that how I will recognize you in Disney, The Donald with pants on? ;)You got it! I'll also be the only one taking a photo of the restrooms at the canadian outpost.

chicagoshannon

05-26-2009, 09:29 PM

Awesome story about your grandpa. I bet seeing the Pearl Harbor movie really hits home with you.

My dad has super wide feet and always has luck with New Balance shoes.

GreatBiscuit

05-27-2009, 03:39 PM

Awesome story about your grandpa. I bet seeing the Pearl Harbor movie really hits home with you. I LOVE that movie. I watch it often. I've even used a couple of clips from it as sermon illustrations when I filled in for our pastor.

My dad has super wide feet and always has luck with New Balance shoes.Thanks! I'll have to try some on.

chunkymonkey

05-27-2009, 04:12 PM

Hi Greatbiscuit. I'm new posting to the Disboards and I just wanted to say I really enjoyed your super-lengthy-many-years-in-the-making trip and pre-trip report. Can't wait to read what you thought after your trip! My DH and I just got back yesterday from 4 rainy days in the parks, and I remembered thinking to myself how I read your trip report from your honeymoon and how it rained a lot then too. Ponchos do come in handy! I'm in the process of writing a trip report myself over the next few days. But thanks again for the lovely memories!

GreatBiscuit

05-27-2009, 10:08 PM

coffeehousemom

05-28-2009, 02:03 PM

Salute to your grandfather. Awesome story you will have to retell that to your girls school when they study WWII. Military family here 3 grandfathers, father, brother & nephew in law all in either the service now or the past.

Love Kohl's its a weakness of mine. For some reason my car drives its self there on my day off. Lucky I only get a day off every couple weeks. LOL. Also gotta shout out Crocs wore them in Jan feet felt great. Hubby wont wear them but the kids & I did we had no blisters or tired feet. DH had both by day 2.

william4192

05-28-2009, 02:04 PM

subscribing

GreatBiscuit

05-28-2009, 06:32 PM

Salute to your grandfather. Awesome story you will have to retell that to your girls school when they study WWII. Military family here 3 grandfathers, father, brother & nephew in law all in either the service now or the past.Salutes back at'cha to the Coffehousemom Clan!

Love Kohl's its a weakness of mine. For some reason my car drives its self there on my day off. Lucky I only get a day off every couple weeks. LOL. Also gotta shout out Crocs wore them in Jan feet felt great. Hubby wont wear them but the kids & I did we had no blisters or tired feet. DH had both by day 2.I just haven't found any that were "manly" looking.

subscribing :welcome: Glad to have you aboard!

GreatBiscuit

05-28-2009, 07:24 PM

Eating should not be this difficult. Only at The World will you plan out your meals weeks, months, or dare I say it, years in advance. I’ve added and removed dining options to my touring plan since the very beginning. They have changed more times than I can count and some of the original options no longer exist.

Back in the day, when I first began to haunt the hallowed halls of DIS’dom, the hottest table in town was L’ Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante. Over time, lack of service and a decline in food quality resulted in a fall from grace. Another early favorite was 1900 Park Fare. There was a time when I read nothing but rave reviews of this particular establishment. Yet of late, the reviews seem to have gone from mixed to more of a consistent ho-hum.

As the booking window for our Dining reservations approached I became more and more anxious. (Editorial Digression: Apparently Disney no longer calls them ADR’s and it confuses new cast members profusely when you call up Disney Dining and use said term.) If I’m going to book dining, I need to have a plan. If I’m going to have a plan, I need to have my schedule mapped out. If I have my schedule mapped out, it’s going to make it more difficult to “go with the flow”, if it’s more difficult “go with the flow” it will make it more stressful while we are there. It’s enough to give you migraines for a week.

I started with my top three. I knew FOR SURE that I wanted Chef Mickey’s, 'Ohana, and Le Cellier. Yes, I know Le Cellier reviews are up and down. Yet at the heart of them, most of the negatives are not that the place is bad, just that it is not quite as good as it once was. With this being my first visit, I have no base reference to make a comparison. So, I elected to keep it on the list. Plus, I LOVE beer cheese soup. (Which is funny because I am not a beer drinker.) I tried it for the first time at a restaurant in Minneapolis and have LOVED it ever since.

I knew from reading other TR’s that I wanted to book Chef Mickey’s for our first night. So many have commented on how they make this a tradition, and something about it just seemed like a great way to start a Disney World vacation. This left 6 more ADR’s to schedule. Once I knew my parents were coming, I decided that 'Ohana would be a great spot for a meal with the extended family. At the time, they were coming the last four days of our trip, so I scheduled it near the end of our trip.

I needed some more input so I put together a power point of several possibilities in the parks we would be visiting with my parents and emailed it to my mom. (Complete with food photos from the DIS and PassPorter and menus from AllEars.net) The four places my mom most wanted to go were:

Chef Mickey’s
'Ohana
Momma Melrose
Le Cellier

This was all fine and dandy, except for one minor detail. I wouldn’t be able to do Chef Mickey’s on our first night unless we did it twice. (Which I ALMOST did, before deciding to try other things.)

After much deliberation, I decided that our remaining dining options would be the Princess Storybook Breakfast at Akershus, Crystal Palace, and Garden Grill.

This of course did not last. I was never really set on Garden Grill and after much hemming and hawing, changed it to Yak and Yeti. This too did not last. I then settled on a priority seating reservation (remember those?) at Big River Grille. This lasted even less time than Yak and Yeti. At one point I pondered giving 1900 PF a try and then tossed around the idea of Chef Mickey’s redo, but finally I settled on…….Whispering Canyon.

I’ve always been fascinated by the photos of the Wilderness Lodge and really want to go check it out. Plus the menu is the type of food we all like and I think the girls would get a kick out of the boat ride to the Magic Kingdom.

Of course once I had it all mapped out, I found out my parents would be coming the first four days as opposed to the last four days. Thankfully this was BEFORE the dining window had opened so I did not have any ressies. After a little cut and paste action ensued, I had everything re-sorted and Chef Mickey’s was once again on our opening night.

WOO HOO!

The day finally arrived when my dining window opened and I hit the phones at 7 AM. It happened to be a Saturday and I had to explain to First Lady Biscuit why I HAD to be up at 6:40 so as to have my computer booted and dialing finger warmed up.

As it turned out, I got ALL my reservations! SCORE! Doing the GB Happy Man dance!

Here’s how our ADR’s, I mean Dining Reservations shaped up.

Day 1 – Friday June 19 - Chef Mickey’s - Dinner
Day 2 – Saturday June 10 – Mamma Melrose - Dinner
Day 3 – Sunday June 11 – 'Ohana- Dinner
Day 4 – Monday June 12 – Le Cellier – Lunch
Day 5 – Tuesday June 23 – Whispering Canyon – Dinner
Day 6 – Wednesday June 24 – Akershus – Breakfast
Day 7 – Thursday June 25 – Open
Day 8 – Friday June 26 – Crystal Palace – Lunch

And then there are the counter service options. Fortunately, these do not yet require reservations. (Perish the thought!) I have NOT mapped out every single CS spot I want to hit up, but there are a few that I put in the plan as suggestions. They are:

Sunshine Season Food Festival
Flame Tree BBQ
Pizzafari
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
Toy Story Pizza Planet

Just when you think all is said and done, you have the snack credits to deal with. The only planned snack I have is the Cheese Stuffed Pretzel at DHS. I also have a dole whip commitment with pineapple float intentions, but am not sure if that is a Dining Plan option or if it will be out of pocket. Either way, it WILL be mine! BWA-HA-HA-HA-HA-herrrrck…..sorry I was having a moment.

And last, but certainly not least, we have the refillable mugs which I am sure we will purchase only moments after checking in.

Who knew figuring out what to eat would be the hardest part of planning this little soiree? Well, I guess that about does it for dining. You can get a pretty good idea about our touring plans from looking over the list, but to see “The Plan 3.0” you’ll have to tune in next time.

Coming on Episode 41 – I just told you, it’s “The Plan 3.0”

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32084205&postcount=507)