Biscuit's Grand Adventure | An epic tale three decades in the making!

[Kimberly815]

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.


Only at Disneyworld!! Whenever I first mention this fact to my DH or other travel companions they think I am insane. However, when they are sitting for just a few minutes waiting to get their table and watch numerous families get turned away at the podium, the tune changes!



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 – O’Hanna - 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


These look like very nice selections! I have been to most of them and really enjoyed them. The Whispering Canyon is a lot of fun! Don't worry too much about other people's reviews. We have been to plenty of places that have bad reviews and really enjoyed our meals!


The only planned snack I have is the Cheese Stuffed Pretzel at DHS.


Oh, what I would give for a Cheese Stuffed Pretzel right now. Wait! And a Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar! (ETA: Please note that I am about 6 months pregnant- I hope that makes that combination sound a little less crazy, or at least a little more understandable!)

[PrincessV]

Eating should not be this difficult.
Ain't that the truth?! :rolleyes:

Lots of good choices there GB! :thumbsup2

The only planned snack I have is the Cheese Stuffed Pretzel at DHS.
Might I make a snack suggestion? Pay a little visit to the Main St. Bakery. I highly recommend the cinnamon roll, but everything else there is yummy, too! :love:

[Disneymom3304]

On our last trip we all discovered the greatness that is a Dole Whip! To top it off they DO count as a snack credit, oh happy day! Enjoy!

[GreatBiscuit]

I think you made a good decision to go to Whispering Canyon. We went there for our date night. Eric LOVED it! It was on trip day 10 so in a few days you'll be able to read about it on my TR. ;)

I'll be looking forward to your Ohana review when you get back. We're planning on that for our anniversary dinner. :) I'm glad to hear you enjoyed WC - I look forward to hearing about in your TR! I'll def give you the O'hanna low-down.

Only at Disneyworld!! Whenever I first mention this fact to my DH or other travel companions they think I am insane. However, when they are sitting for just a few minutes waiting to get their table and watch numerous families get turned away at the podium, the tune changes! I'm fairly certain they'll understand once we are there.


These look like very nice selections! I have been to most of them and really enjoyed them. The Whispering Canyon is a lot of fun! Don't worry too much about other people's reviews. We have been to plenty of places that have bad reviews and really enjoyed our meals!Thanks - we're looking forward to all them!


Oh, what I would give for a Cheese Stuffed Pretzel right now. Wait! And a Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar! (ETA: Please note that I am about 6 months pregnant- I hope that makes that combination sound a little less crazy, or at least a little more understandable!):lmao:It's all good.

Ain't that the truth?! :rolleyes:

Lots of good choices there GB! :thumbsup2


Might I make a snack suggestion? Pay a little visit to the Main St. Bakery. I highly recommend the cinnamon roll, but everything else there is yummy, too! :love:Thanks for the suggestion PV. I'll have to keep that one in mind.

On our last trip we all discovered the greatness that is a Dole Whip! To top it off they DO count as a snack credit, oh happy day! Enjoy!YEAH!!!! :banana: (Only because we have no dancing pineapple.)

[brookelizabeth]

Wait a second! No Pinnochio's?! What would a GB trip be without PVH???! :eek: :sad2:

;)

Really, all your choices do look really great. We really enjoyed WCC, and the character interaction at Chef Mickey's was just awesome. We also enjoyed LeCellier...though, we too were first timers, nothing to compare it to, and so we were NOT let down by any means.

Ohana I had to waddle out of. There is a horrible picture of me sitting after that meal and you can literally see how bloated my stomach was from the sheer amount of food I took in. :scared: It's delish.

I am happy to see inklings of The Plan. Just remember, while it's good and OK to have The Plan, The Plan must also sometimes be disregarded and even thrown out the window from time to time. But, I think you well know that. :goodvibes

Your trip is getting SO close. Are you packing yet? Is anyone in the house starting to loose sleep yet due to Disney dreams?

[GreatBiscuit]

Wait a second! No Pinnochio's?! What would a GB trip be without PVH???! :eek: :sad2:

;)Oh, I'm pretty sure we'll AT LEAST stop in for a drink!

Really, all your choices do look really great. We really enjoyed WCC, and the character interaction at Chef Mickey's was just awesome. We also enjoyed LeCellier...though, we too were first timers, nothing to compare it to, and so we were NOT let down by any means.Good to know!

Ohana I had to waddle out of. There is a horrible picture of me sitting after that meal and you can literally see how bloated my stomach was from the sheer amount of food I took in. :scared: It's delish.I am SO looking forward to that meal.

I am happy to see inklings of The Plan. Just remember, while it's good and OK to have The Plan, The Plan must also sometimes be disregarded and even thrown out the window from time to time. But, I think you well know that. :goodvibesI think I did pretty well in not micro-managing every second of the trip.

Your trip is getting SO close. Are you packing yet? Is anyone in the house starting to loose sleep yet due to Disney dreams?Not yet, but I imagine that will change once school is out.

[GreatBiscuit]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, Dining decision were made and changed, made and changed, and made again. For those of you keeping score, the final travel plans have shaped up thusly:

Thursday: The Biscuit clan (Myself, First Lady Biscuit, Tahli and Hailee) will drive with my parents (a.k.a. Nana and Papa) and nephew (Preston) to Houston to spend the night at a motel near the airport.

Friday: The Biscuit’s 7 will leave terra firma at approx 6:20 AM and arrive in Orlando around 9:35 AM. After heading to the POP, we will either have a nap, then head to MK OR head to MK then return for a nap before finishing out the day at MK. I’m counting on the later as I doubt our rooms will be ready at 11:00. My Aunt Jana, (the heroine of trip 6) will join us at some point Friday afternoon and stay with my parents until either Sunday evening or Monday morning.

Tuesday: My parents and nephew will head out at noon to catch their 3:05 PM flight.

Friday: We remaining Biscuit’s will leave the resort around 5:30PM for our 8:30PM Flight.

Moving on to the meat and taters, I humbly present you “The Plan 3.0” Having learned from past mistakes, my approach to planning this trip was quite different. Rather than planning out actual park touring schemes, I’ve kept it a bit more general.

As you’ve heard me mention many times, I have a soft spot for Spreadsheets when it comes to “The Plan.” This particular incarnation is comprised of 1 file, containing 8 worksheets. They are: Flight & Resort | Master Touring Plan | Dining Reservations | EMH – Evening | EMH – Morning | Attractions – AK | Attractions EP | Attractions DHS | Attractions MK.

I’ll go through each with you and share screenshots where appropriate.

Worksheet 1: Flight and Resort. As one might expect this worksheet contains our flight #’s times, and confirmation numbers at the top. Under that is our resort confirmations.

Worksheet 2: Master Touring Plan. This is my one stop shop for our daily touring decisions. Things are pretty well set, but there is ONE thing that might change. My parents want to see Fantasmic. The DIS Boards lists Fantasmic as being scheduled for June 22. The link on AllEars.net lists it as being scheduled for June 21. I went with the DIS, but if we arrive and discover this is not correct, I’ll adjust. However, we DO have an ADR for 'Ohana that night and this is our only night for MK evening EMH so we’ll have to play it by ear.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/Plan1.png

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan2.png


Worksheet 3 contains all of our dining reservation numbers.

Worksheets 4 & 5 contain lists of all of the attractions and restaurants open during AM and PM EMH. I’ll have them handy in my notebook and a copy in my park pack. (They are easily found online so I won’t waste bandwidth by posting them here.)

Worksheets 6-9. When we decided to make this trip, I decided I WAS NOT going to be that parent who forces his kids on every attraction possible just because HE wants to ride it. To that end, Worksheets 6-9 list out the attractions for each park and rank each in one of three categories: Must Do, May Do, and Parents Strong Cautioned. These are ranked according to the types of rides I feel my kids will enjoy and can handle. (Based largely on our WDW Training Run and TR’s from other parents.) BTW - those in red are not one we FOR SURE won't do, but we will definitely proceed with caution and see how the girls react on other attractions first.

WS 6: Animal Kingdom
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/Plan3.jpg
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/Plan4.jpg

WS 7: Epcot
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan5.jpg

WS 8: DHS
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan6.jpg

WS 9: MK
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan9.jpg
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan8.jpg
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/plan10.jpg

Thus concludes “The Plan 3.0”. Will it all happen like I foresee? I doubt it. But that’s the great thing about 8 days. It brings a flexibility that I have not had before. That about does it. There is a little over two weeks left until departure day so I’m preparing for a happy dance even as we speak.

Since I’ve mentioned it several times now, I guess I should finally shed some lights on our WDW Training Run. So:


Coming up on Episode 42: The Training Run – Fiesta my Biscuit!


Click here for the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32134379&postcount=528)

[jordanyosh]

WOW......:worship::worship::worship:

I think u put the rest of us to shame.

:worship::worship::worship::worship:

Oh Great Biscuit.....Oh Great Biscuit....

:worship::worship::worship::worship:

[Normangirls]

You should move Mealstrom to "Must Do." Did you know it's a Fastpass?

[chicagoshannon]

I was just going to ask about your training run. Glad it's coming up!

So are you still going to go on the "red" rides? I'd hate for you to miss Everest. It's our new favorite ride!

[whogirl'smom]

I don't feel so bad about my past "secretive" OCD lists now! :rotfl: Two trips ago I remember having those lists (although handwritten) of what we had to do and what we wanted to do if time, my touringplans, where to hop when and even had printed off the menus to EVERY counter service place in Disney. Of course all that is now embedded in my brain from so much time on the Dis! I love a good spreadsheet! :thumbsup2

Jordan, maybe we could adapt the above spreadsheet to include different bars and also bathroom ratings. :rotfl2: Speaking of bathrooms, did you know that the wdw today podcast did a show on bathrooms last week????? They totally stole your idea!

[jordanyosh]

I don't feel so bad about my past "secretive" OCD lists now! :rotfl: Two trips ago I remember having those lists (although handwritten) of what we had to do and what we wanted to do if time, my touringplans, where to hop when and even had printed off the menus to EVERY counter service place in Disney. Of course all that is now embedded in my brain from so much time on the Dis! I love a good spreadsheet! :thumbsup2

Jordan, maybe we could adapt the above spreadsheet to include different bars and also bathroom ratings. :rotfl2: Speaking of bathrooms, did you know that the wdw today podcast did a show on bathrooms last week????? They totally stole your idea!

Who doesn't love a good spreadsheet!

Don't be kidding about adding bars and restrooms...I just might do it....:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::eek:

Whhaaaa.....is there a time stamp on my TR...I thought of it before they did!!!!! They didn't even ask for my opinion. Meh, I don't even think i was the first one....There's someone somewhere on the DIS who had a whole photo report solely on WDW restrooms......who has that much time?

[GreatBiscuit]

WOW......:worship::worship::worship:

I think u put the rest of us to shame.

:worship::worship::worship::worship:

Oh Great Biscuit.....Oh Great Biscuit....

:worship::worship::worship::worship:LOL. Give me 12 years, and I can do a pretty fancy spreadsheet! :lmao:

You should move Mealstrom to "Must Do." Did you know it's a Fastpass?You don't say? I think maybe I can hit it up after a visit to the Canadian Outpost. You know, maybe I should put it on the must do list. Nothing would drag Zzub out of retirement faster.

I was just going to ask about your training run. Glad it's coming up!

So are you still going to go on the "red" rides? I'd hate for you to miss Everest. It's our new favorite ride!I HOPE to. It will depend in large part on how the kids are doing those first four days as my only chance will be while Nana and Papa are there.

I don't feel so bad about my past "secretive" OCD lists now! :rotfl: Two trips ago I remember having those lists (although handwritten) of what we had to do and what we wanted to do if time, my touringplans, where to hop when and even had printed off the menus to EVERY counter service place in Disney. Of course all that is now embedded in my brain from so much time on the Dis! I love a good spreadsheet! :thumbsup2Closet planners of the world unite! I haven't printed out the menus yet...although I did bookmark them on my Blackberry. :rolleyes1

Jordan, maybe we could adapt the above spreadsheet to include different bars and also bathroom ratings. :rotfl2: Speaking of bathrooms, did you know that the wdw today podcast did a show on bathrooms last week????? They totally stole your idea!Now THAT would be a handy spreadhseet to have.

Who doesn't love a good spreadsheet!

Don't be kidding about adding bars and restrooms...I just might do it....:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::eek:

Whhaaaa.....is there a time stamp on my TR...I thought of it before they did!!!!! They didn't even ask for my opinion. Meh, I don't even think i was the first one....There's someone somewhere on the DIS who had a whole photo report solely on WDW restrooms......who has that much time?If you do, sign me up as a subscriber! You perked my curiosity now on the restrom TR. Have to see if that one's still in the archives!

[Vexorg]

Wow, that looks like the most comprehensive, all-encompassing and destined to be tossed out the window the minute you pass under the big Disney World sign plan I've ever seen.

[jordanyosh]

Great One-I'll try to track it down for you. It was actually in a blog..with the link posted in a TR...

[All7OfUs]

Been out of action for a spell, trying to get a conference organized for about 40 people- in another language, in a foreign country :scared1:

But had a minute to take a quick peek at our last couple of installments- and they LOOK GOOD! I'd second the Maelstrom "give it a go" comment, though. It's a really fun ride!

Love your dining choices too. I've eaten at most, and have wanted to try WC for a while. It'll be fun to hear how that goes.

I'll try to catch up more next week :goodvibes

[mrp4352]

Hallo!!

Couple of comments on The Plan 3.0 (which is wonderful, by the way - I may have to stea--- um, BORROW, your format!)...

We found with my neices (2, 3 and 5) that the Great Movie Ride and Honey, I Shrunk the Audience were fine when they rode on their parents' laps, so my brother and SIL could talk them through it. Also, with HISTA, it helped keep them from one of the more startling effects.

For pirates, when the middle one got nervous, we started looking for animals - there are more animals than you can shake a stick at in that ride! Chickens, dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, parrots, goats, pigs and more - and they're in every scene after the pirate ship battle.

I would suggest moving Gran Fiesta Tour to a must-do. it's fun, always has a quick line and it has Jose! Universe of Energy can go either way - it's a really good break in the heat of the day - 45 minutes sitting down in the dark with air conditioning - it puts my mom and my neices to sleep right away!

Oh, you're going to have such a good trip no matter what you end up doing!!!

[ZephyrHawk]

Toy Story Mania @ DHS???

Wouldn't want "The Plan 3.0" to have any bugs.

[jcc0621]

I am in awe:worship::worship:

[GreatBiscuit]

Wow, that looks like the most comprehensive, all-encompassing and destined to be tossed out the window the minute you pass under the big Disney World sign plan I've ever seen.That is a disctinct possibility.

Great One-I'll try to track it down for you. It was actually in a blog..with the link posted in a TR...Awesome!

Been out of action for a spell, trying to get a conference organized for about 40 people- in another language, in a foreign country :scared1:

But had a minute to take a quick peek at our last couple of installments- and they LOOK GOOD! I'd second the Maelstrom "give it a go" comment, though. It's a really fun ride!

Love your dining choices too. I've eaten at most, and have wanted to try WC for a while. It'll be fun to hear how that goes.

I'll try to catch up more next week :goodvibesGood luck with your conference! I may wind up moving Maelstrom...we'll see!

Hallo!!

Couple of comments on The Plan 3.0 (which is wonderful, by the way - I may have to stea--- um, BORROW, your format!)... !!!Borrow away my friend!


We found with my neices (2, 3 and 5) that the Great Movie Ride and Honey, I Shrunk the Audience were fine when they rode on their parents' laps, so my brother and SIL could talk them through it. Also, with HISTA, it helped keep them from one of the more startling effects.

For pirates, when the middle one got nervous, we started looking for animals - there are more animals than you can shake a stick at in that ride! Chickens, dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, parrots, goats, pigs and more - and they're in every scene after the pirate ship battle.Thanks for the tips! I'll definitely utilize them. I've also enlisted another suggestion from the Dis boards, but that's a story that has to wait until the episode on my park pack.

I would suggest moving Gran Fiesta Tour to a must-do. it's fun, always has a quick line and it has Jose! Universe of Energy can go either way - it's a really good break in the heat of the day - 45 minutes sitting down in the dark with air conditioning - it puts my mom and my neices to sleep right away!

Oh, you're going to have such a good trip no matter what you end up doing!!!Gran Fiesta is one we will likely hit up. Not sure about U of E...depends on how the day is shaping up.

Toy Story Mania @ DHS???

Wouldn't want "The Plan 3.0" to have any bugs.DOH! :scared1: Thanks for pointing that out! I don't think I'd have to worry about making it a priority though! OH and :welcome: BTW! Glad to have you along for the ride!

I am in awe:worship::worship:Thanks! like I told Jordan, it only took 12 years to figure out. :rotfl:

[PrincessV]

'Scuse me while I dab the tears from my eyes.

I'm moved. Enlightened. Filled with joy. Enraptured, even.

That just may be the most beautiful spread sheet I've ever seen! :worship:

And I'm totally stealing your formatting for my own use. Thanks GB! :thumbsup2

Will it all happen like I foresee?
Nope. But...
But that’s the great thing about 8 days. It brings a flexibility that I have not had before.
Exactly! :thumbsup2:cool1:

[jordanyosh]

Great One

I am still searching for the DISer who had the photo TR of restrooms....I spent 45 minutes the other night and couldn't locate her. If I could only remember her name....

[brookelizabeth]

GB-that is one beautiful spreadsheet. How very handy to have it easily accessable, color coded and the format-quick and simple. I LOVE the three ratings of rides as well. So smart.

I hope you and FLGB are able to get onto some of the bigger rides that you may enjoy. Maybe Nana & Poppa can take the girls in a gift shop, or to get ice cream while you ride! Or, if one wants to ride, and one doesn't-Child Swap! Love love love that!

Great One

I am still searching for the DISer who had the photo TR of restrooms....I spent 45 minutes the other night and couldn't locate her. If I could only remember her name....

The only report I recall reading about bathrooms was YOURS! :rotfl2: ;)

[GreatBiscuit]

'Scuse me while I dab the tears from my eyes.

I'm moved. Enlightened. Filled with joy. Enraptured, even.

That just may be the most beautiful spread sheet I've ever seen! :worship:

And I'm totally stealing your formatting for my own use. Thanks GB! :thumbsup2I'm glad you like it! Feel free to use it as you wish. If you (or anyone else for that matter) wants a blank copy that is already formatted, just PM me and I'll strip down our and email it to you.

Great One

I am still searching for the DISer who had the photo TR of restrooms....I spent 45 minutes the other night and couldn't locate her. If I could only remember her name.... Thanks Jordan! I have good news! I FOUND IT! :banana: YEAH GOOGLE SITE SEARCH! The DIS thread is HERE (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1063096)and the link in the first post takes you HERE (http://www.cassworld.ca/photosbathrooms.htm).

GB-that is one beautiful spreadsheet. How very handy to have it easily accessable, color coded and the format-quick and simple. I LOVE the three ratings of rides as well. So smart. Thanks! Glad you liked it!

I hope you and FLGB are able to get onto some of the bigger rides that you may enjoy. Maybe Nana & Poppa can take the girls in a gift shop, or to get ice cream while you ride! Or, if one wants to ride, and one doesn't-Child Swap! Love love love that!That is definitely my hope as well! (Hint to Nana who is reading along on this epic.)

The only report I recall reading about bathrooms was YOURS! :rotfl2: ;):lmao:

[jordanyosh]

:worship::worship::worship::worship::worship::wors hip:

Why didn't I think to do that?

I guess I don't need to when I have the Great One to do all the work...

I knew it started her name started with a C.....

That Restroom TR is crazy.....crazy good.

[Normangirls]

:worship::worship::worship::worship::worship::wors hip:

That Restroom TR is crazy.....crazy good.



You know, I went through her report and looked at all the pictures.

Every. Single. One.

And I loved it!

I was like: OOOH! I know that one! Oh, that's a good bathroom. Wow, look at the castle bathroom! Hmmm, that one looks pretty. Gee, I'll have to stop at that one.

Seriously, I need help. That was my best Disney fix of the day.

:dance3:

[GreatBiscuit]

That Restroom TR is crazy.....crazy good.No Doubt! I

You know, I went through her report and looked at all the pictures.

Every. Single. One.

And I loved it!

I was like: OOOH! I know that one! Oh, that's a good bathroom. Wow, look at the castle bathroom! Hmmm, that one looks pretty. Gee, I'll have to stop at that one.

Seriously, I need help. That was my best Disney fix of the day.

:dance3:Awesome! :thumbsup2

[GreatBiscuit]

At the end of the last school year, my daughter brought home a certificate good for a free day at Six Flags. She was awarded said certificate through some sort of reading program. Six Flags gets all the PR, the school gets a nifty prize, and the parents, well we get to pay for it all. Six Flags knows good and well that six year olds are not going to drive themselves to the park and walk around alone all day. They, in their infinite wisdom, have concluded that if they give kids a “free pass” that said kids will pester their parents incessantly to use it.

In anticipation of this inevitable outcome, Six Flags added a promo website to the ticket where you can log in to purchase “Companion Passes”. Then of course there is the paying to park and paying to eat and all the little extras they get to stick you for. Not that I’m a hater. Goodness knows if the school passed out a free pass to Disney World, I’d be singing praises and hitting the travel sites.

So it was that last summer, I found myself planning a trip to Six Flags Fiesta Texas, in San Antonio. After the initial bitter indignation wore off, I actually found myself looking forward to it. I love San Antonio. It was the first place in Texas I ever lived. We love Sea World, the River Walk, the Zoo, everything about it. Yet as fond as I am of San Antonio as a destination, I had another reason for planning this trip.

I knew at the time that we were leaning towards a trip to The World. To that end, I began to view this trip as a “Training Run” if you will. Now before you go crying Sacrilege, allow me to explain. I wanted to see what type of rides the girls enjoyed, how they handled touring in the heat, and how they handled characters. I also wanted to have any “bad experiences” associated with Six Flags and NOT with Walt Disney World. Say for instance that Hailee meets a character and totally flips out. I’d rather her associate the fear with Foghorn Leghorn than with Mickey. Or say we discovered that the girls hated getting wet on a ride. Better they associate it with The Gully Washer than with Kali River Rapids.

While I know that not every attractions has a duplicate parallel, and that there is a HUGE difference between the two parks, it gave me a least a starting point in planning out this summer.

Because of other scheduling conflicts, we had to take our trip in August. While this was convenient for our summer schedule, it was a pain in the pistol as far as weather goes. August here is HOT brother! (or Sister) The day we went, the heat index was 105. While the humidity may not have been quite as high as Orlando, lemme tell you I felt ever tick of the mercury. While I won’t bore with the details of our ride by ride touring, I will share with a few things that I learned.

1. The girls can only handle about 3-4 hours without a major break. We took two of them. For the first, we ate at an indoor dining facility which featured a Looney Toons stage show. After about an hour, the girls were cooled down and ready to go again. The second break we took was in the water park which happens to be inside of Fiesta Texas. (More on that later.)

2. The girls like characters. (YEAH!) We met Bugs Bunny just as we entered the park and they both posed for hugs and photos. They also both enjoyed the stage show.

3. The girls both LOVE water rides. Their favorite two rides of the day were The Gully Washer (river rapids ride similar to Kali) and the Bugs’ White Water Rapids (aka “the log ride”). Looking over the guides and planning video, they both went nuts over Kali River Rapids and Splash Mountain.

4. The girls both LOVE riding the train. Tied with or shortly trailing the water rides, the train was something that both girls really enjoyed doing. It is a MUST do on our visit this summer.

5. Hailee does NOT like dark rides. There is a ride at Fiesta Texas called Scooby Doo Ghostbusters in which you ride through a haunted house and shoot ghosts with laser guns. She DID NOT like this ride at all. She was afraid of being in the dark. When we mentioned the trip later, she would say “I didn’t like the ghost ride.” For this reason, I added the dark rides at Disney to the “Parent’s Strongly Cautioned” column. Two things may make a difference. One, she is a year older, and two I have a DIS learned tip for helping young ones with dark rides. (But you’ll have to wait until Monday to see what it is.)

6. The girls are not big enough to enjoy a water park yet. We spent a good 2-3 hours in Whitewater Bay, but the only things we did were the kiddy pool (where we spent the VAST majority of our time), lazy river, wave pool (which they enjoyed more with NO waves) and a family tube ride. When looking at our options for this summer, I read over the different water park attractions, factored in the resort pool and play area and finally decided that I couldn’t justify the extra expense of the tickets. When the girls are a few years older and a little more secure in their swimming skills, the water parks will be a must do.

7. Tahli likes smaller coasters, but is still a bit scared of the larger ones. I took her on the Roadrunner Express which is listed as a Moderate Coaster. It was BIT more intense than Dad initially realized. (You can’t see the track until it is too late.) Tahli latched onto my arm with a death grip and wanted off. We’ve talked at length about Big Thunder Mountain this summer, but she says she wants to try it. If she changes her mind, I won’t press the issue.

8. The girls have a limit to how much they handle in one day. On our trip, we did about 2 hours of touring, took a break indoors, did another hour or two of touring and hit the water park for a couple of hours, toured another 2-3 hours and they were done. For this summer, my plan is 3-4 hours in the morning; a long break at the resort with swimming, napping, etc.; and then 3-4 hours at night. We won’t be able to see as much in a day as those who do the open to close commando runs, but even if my kids could handle such a thing, my body cannot.

9. The girls can handle the heat okay, but we HAVE to pay attention. We kept the girls well hydrated, took AC breaks, and I was consciously looking out for signs of heat exhaustion.

So there you have it. Who says learning can’t be fun? I did actually enjoy the day there, but wish there were more “family” rides that we could all do together. I also wish I hadn’t left the camera in the car. Not lugging it around all day seemed like a good idea at the time, but now I wish I had taken pictures. . (Maybe that is lesson 10 – Memories trump convenience Bubba! As we shall see in Episode 44!)


Coming up on Episode 44 – This Aint Your Granny’s Fanny Pack!

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32202888&postcount=549)

[chicagoshannon]

Your girls like doing the same things I like at water parks. LOL I'm really glad they liked the characters!

[Backstage_Gal]

14 days. WOOHOO!

[jcc0621]

THose poll breaks are just the thing for little one's. I forget how old your girls are (and I'm too lazy to go back and read:rolleyes1) but DS is 5 and we have toured three different ways.

the 1st going early in the am and stayng until we feel like leaving (usually around dinner time) heading back, eating, and then hitting the pool for the evening.

the 2nd going early in the am, taking a mid day break, and swimming or just hanging in the room for bit and then going back to the park

and the third is not even going until later in the day (hangingout the room, pool and/or arcade for most of the day) and staying until close.

All of these have prevented melt-downs. The melt downs have occurred when we tried the whole commando thing - going at rope drop and trying to stay until close...it was ugly:scared1:

[jordanyosh]

Great One,

I would like to transplant your brain into my head..although I don't think you'd want mine....:rolleyes1

You are not only a crazy planner, but a thoughtful one at that....looking out for your little ones. What a great pop.

[GreatBiscuit]

Your girls like doing the same things I like at water parks. LOL I'm really glad they liked the characters!Me too! I was nervous about the character thing, but they did really wel.

14 days. WOOHOO!:banana: I'm in a state of perma-smile.

THose poll breaks are just the thing for little one's. I forget how old your girls are (and I'm too lazy to go back and read:rolleyes1) but DS is 5 and we have toured three different ways.

the 1st going early in the am and stayng until we feel like leaving (usually around dinner time) heading back, eating, and then hitting the pool for the evening.

the 2nd going early in the am, taking a mid day break, and swimming or just hanging in the room for bit and then going back to the park

and the third is not even going until later in the day (hangingout the room, pool and/or arcade for most of the day) and staying until close.

All of these have prevented melt-downs. The melt downs have occurred when we tried the whole commando thing - going at rope drop and trying to stay until close...it was ugly:scared1:I think our girls are just as excited about the pool as they are the rest of the trip! We may incorporate all three of your touring plans at one point or another.

Great One,

I would like to transplant your brain into my head..although I don't think you'd want mine....:rolleyes1

You are not only a crazy planner, but a thoughtful one at that....looking out for your little ones. What a great pop. Trust me, you wouldn't be any better off! Aside from my nack for breaking things (including myself), I tend to be a bit forgetful. Disney is the one and only area in which I am semi-organized!

[DisneyMomLiz]

GB...WOW, you are a gifted storyteller! :worship:

I just read all 36 pages of your multi-layered TR. We just came back from a trip to the world and I even made notes about our adventures, but I believe I'll stick to reading great TR's instead of writing them.

Thank you for sharing your story with us! Can't wait to read all of the future installments :) I'm especially looking forward to your DDP reviews as your upcoming Dining Choices are on my wishlist for our first ever DDP! (O'hanas, Chef Mickey's)

Thanks again and have a fantastic trip :woohoo:

[GreatBiscuit]

GB...WOW, you are a gifted storyteller! :worship:

I just read all 36 pages of your multi-layered TR. We just came back from a trip to the world and I even made notes about our adventures, but I believe I'll stick to reading great TR's instead of writing them.

Thank you for sharing your story with us! Can't wait to read all of the future installments :) I'm especially looking forward to your DDP reviews as your upcoming Dining Choices are on my wishlist for our first ever DDP! (O'hanas, Chef Mickey's)

Thanks again and have a fantastic trip :woohoo:Thanks and :welcome: I'm glod you enjoyed the TR. You should TOTALLY write one out, if for no other reason, to preserve the trip memories. I'll definitely be posting my thoughts and opionions on Dining. O'hanas and Chef Mickey's have been on my list of must do for years; so I am TOTALLY stoked about trying them out. (CM's in just 2 weeks from tonight! YEAHHHHHHHHH! :banana:)

[BellaSoleil]

Someone only has 13 days....:banana::banana::banana:

[GreatBiscuit]

Someone only has 13 days....:banana::banana::banana:

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOTY!

:banana: Indeed!

BTW :welcome: as an official Biscuit poster!

[MrsWendyLady]

OH GREAT GRAND BISCUIT -

I noticed that you are flying out of Htown....if you are flying out of Hobby, I would love to recommend restaurants in the area...and I would also like to volunteer if you need a bit of help with Pixie Dust for your girls while in Htown!

I have enjoyed your trip report tremendously, and will do anything I can to help such a great Dad!

[GreatBiscuit]

OH GREAT GRAND BISCUIT -

I noticed that you are flying out of Htown....if you are flying out of Hobby, I would love to recommend restaurants in the area...and I would also like to volunteer if you need a bit of help with Pixie Dust for your girls while in Htown!

I have enjoyed your trip report tremendously, and will do anything I can to help such a great Dad!
:welcome: Glad you are reading along! We are actually eating dinner at my sister's house on Thursday night. She lives somewhere in Houston, but I haven't been to her new place so I have no idea where. (NW side I think.) Our plan for now is to head down mid afternoon - spend a few hours at my sisters house, then head to the motel and try to sleep as much as possible. I appreciate the offer though. (I stink at surprise planning stuff.)

[burly]

Hi GB! Well back from the graduation celebration, it was fabulous.:dance3:
While i didn't really "enjoy" Pop. It is a fabulous resort for families with "little kids". Remember to take some time to walk the resort and read signs/take photo's etc. :moped:
I am trying to get life in order to write a trippie. but Grad party next sunday is first so......:laundy:
I would like to comment on San Antonio. I love love love that place. The feel of it, the look, the vibe. And Fiesta Texas, i could look up the coasters, but i won't, LAZY. I really loved the big fat wooden coaster.
Well its late so that means you have, maybe 11 days! Woot!.
Oh did TSM this trip. 3 times. Fun, fun fun. :3dglasses

[whogirl'smom]

I, too, looked at every single bathroom picture that Timon posted!

We need breaks, too, except that it's the grown-ups that have the meltdowns around here!

[bedillamouse]

Well you are the smart one aren't you....while I did the whole prep thing and showed my girls character pictures of people standing by....showing how big Mickey is and such I never thought to find a local amusent park and have a trial run....really wish I would have. My girls FREAKED at 1900 Park Fair on our first morning there. I mean Freaked....no food was eaten. My girls became very akin to monkeys and climbed up my DH and I to try and get away from the characters. I do however have a very funny picture of my youngest screaming bloody murder with pooh walking towards her. Boy howdy did we get the looks! They did okay with the "live" characters except for the Mad Hatter....I think it was the extremely large nose. Needless to say we had to cancel a few of our character dining reservations for the rest of the trip. :headache:

I'm very excited for you guys....you will have so much fun. I'm also looking forward to the tip you learned about handling dark rides with kids that are not so thrilled with them.popcorn::

[brookelizabeth]

Sounds like a very successful trial run! It's so great going into WDW knowing what kinda to expect. I think, in ways, WDW is more low-key than a Six Flags because of the style of rides - attractions of all sorts at WDW-mostly go fast/thrill stuff at Six Flags. There are so many simple things at WDW that a child finds enjoyment in, hopefully this will help with avoiding meltdowns as well.

I'm off to go check out that bathroom report! :thumbsup2

[PrincessV]

I knew at the time that we were leaning towards a trip to The World. To that end, I began to view this trip as a “Training Run” if you will. Now before you go crying Sacrilege, allow me to explain.
Not form me - I'm completely in favor of training runs! :thumbsup2 We've tested out a whole bunch of stuff at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay before taking our chances at WDW: strollers, cup holders, backpacks, shoes, water rides, kiddie rides done solo... I think it helps enormously!

(Maybe that is lesson 10 – Memories trump convenience Bubba!)
Mind if I weigh-in? YES!!! Take the camera. Trust V. ;)

[AshClan]

I'm here. And way behind again. I've been reading bits and pieces, but have never been able to catch up to the end so I could post. So....here are my thoughts on the last few chapters:

Dining is my favorite topic! Have you looked at the dining boards at all? I am a convert and a big fan of the dining TRs. Especially when there are pictures! Warning: Don't read when you're hungry. Or after eating a less than satisfying meal. Like a Lean Cuisine.:rolleyes:

Love O'hana. Whispering Canyon is fun but loud. Are your girls up for loud? My son didn't love the decibels when he was younger. Hope Mama Melrose works for you. We've have mixed experiences. I'm with you on the Chef Mickey's first night!! We actually always hit CMs twice. Once for the arrival night dinner and later in the week for b-fast.

Snacks: Don't forget the Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich at Main Street Bakery. They are handmade and HUGE. You can even pick which kind of cookie you want (I recommend Ch. Chip). Last time I checked, they were still a snack on the DDP. Which is a majorly good deal. And yes! Have a Dole Whip or three. LOVE THEM :lovestruc

That itinerary....WOW!! I, like the rest of the crew here, are in awe of your mad skillz. I have a spreadsheet format, too, which I was pretty impressed with until I saw yours......;)

I'm also seconding the motion that you and your darling Tracy get to hit some of the more grown up rides, especially Everest, RNRC and TOT. And BTMRR was my kids FAVORITE ride at 3 and 5. So don't rule it out completely, okay? It's really pretty tame. Heck, if they can handle the Splash drop (can they?), BTMRR is small potatoes. (And it's a TRAIN!)

ETA: Philharmagic is AWESOME and I can't imagine any little girl wouldn't LOVE it. Planning for a quick exit is good, but I would try taking off glasses first. My youngest HATES 3-D (Can't even say HISTA around him) but LOVES LOVES LOVES Philharmagic. If they don't like dark, you are very wise to steer clear of POTC and the Haunted Mansion (my teens STILL won't ride the latter due to me traumatizing them in their youth by taking them on it and telling them it was "more funny than scary". It think I was right, but they HATE IT and will resent me forever for that decision...)

I am VERY excited for you and will be waiting on pins and needles to hear how it all turns out!:cheer2:

[GreatBiscuit]

Hi GB! Well back from the graduation celebration, it was fabulous.:dance3:
While i didn't really "enjoy" Pop. It is a fabulous resort for families with "little kids". Remember to take some time to walk the resort and read signs/take photo's etc. :moped:
I am trying to get life in order to write a trippie. but Grad party next sunday is first so......:laundy:
I would like to comment on San Antonio. I love love love that place. The feel of it, the look, the vibe. And Fiesta Texas, i could look up the coasters, but i won't, LAZY. I really loved the big fat wooden coaster.
Well its late so that means you have, maybe 11 days! Woot!.
Oh did TSM this trip. 3 times. Fun, fun fun. :3dglassesWelcome back! I can’t wait to hear how everything went. We are definitely looking forward to the POP and TSM. The big wooden beast at Fiesta Texas is called the Rattler and it was well named.

I, too, looked at every single bathroom picture that Timon posted!

We need breaks, too, except that it's the grown-ups that have the meltdowns around here!That’s too funny! I didn’t get through them all. I felt a little creepy looking at photos of ladies rooms. Maybe I can do a man version. I didn’t take adult meltdowns into account.

Well you are the smart one aren't you....while I did the whole prep thing and showed my girls character pictures of people standing by....showing how big Mickey is and such I never thought to find a local amusent park and have a trial run....really wish I would have. My girls FREAKED at 1900 Park Fair on our first morning there. I mean Freaked....no food was eaten. My girls became very akin to monkeys and climbed up my DH and I to try and get away from the characters. I do however have a very funny picture of my youngest screaming bloody murder with pooh walking towards her. Boy howdy did we get the looks! They did okay with the "live" characters except for the Mad Hatter....I think it was the extremely large nose. Needless to say we had to cancel a few of our character dining reservations for the rest of the trip. :headache:

I'm very excited for you guys....you will have so much fun. I'm also looking forward to the tip you learned about handling dark rides with kids that are not so thrilled with them.popcorn::Sorry to hear about 1900 PF! I know that had to be a letdown.

Sounds like a very successful trial run! It's so great going into WDW knowing what kinda to expect. I think, in ways, WDW is more low-key than a Six Flags because of the style of rides - attractions of all sorts at WDW-mostly go fast/thrill stuff at Six Flags. There are so many simple things at WDW that a child finds enjoyment in, hopefully this will help with avoiding meltdowns as well.

I'm off to go check out that bathroom report! :thumbsup2I would agree. I was a bit disappointed at Six Flags that there were so few attractions we could do as a family. That’s on thing I really looking forward to this time around.

Not form me - I'm completely in favor of training runs! :thumbsup2 We've tested out a whole bunch of stuff at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay before taking our chances at WDW: strollers, cup holders, backpacks, shoes, water rides, kiddie rides done solo... I think it helps enormously!


Mind if I weigh-in? YES!!! Take the camera. Trust V. ;)Kudos to trial runs! As you will see in a few moments, I definitely followed the camera suggestion to its logical extreme.

I'm here. And way behind again. I've been reading bits and pieces, but have never been able to catch up to the end so I could post. So....here are my thoughts on the last few chapters:

Dining is my favorite topic! Have you looked at the dining boards at all? I am a convert and a big fan of the dining TRs. Especially when there are pictures! Warning: Don't read when you're hungry. Or after eating a less than satisfying meal. Like a Lean Cuisine.:rolleyes:

Love O'hana. Whispering Canyon is fun but loud. Are your girls up for loud? My son didn't love the decibels when he was younger. Hope Mama Melrose works for you. We've have mixed experiences. I'm with you on the Chef Mickey's first night!! We actually always hit CMs twice. Once for the arrival night dinner and later in the week for b-fast.

Snacks: Don't forget the Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich at Main Street Bakery. They are handmade and HUGE. You can even pick which kind of cookie you want (I recommend Ch. Chip). Last time I checked, they were still a snack on the DDP. Which is a majorly good deal. And yes! Have a Dole Whip or three. LOVE THEM :lovestruc

That itinerary....WOW!! I, like the rest of the crew here, are in awe of your mad skillz. I have a spreadsheet format, too, which I was pretty impressed with until I saw yours......;)

I'm also seconding the motion that you and your darling Tracy get to hit some of the more grown up rides, especially Everest, RNRC and TOT. And BTMRR was my kids FAVORITE ride at 3 and 5. So don't rule it out completely, okay? It's really pretty tame. Heck, if they can handle the Splash drop (can they?), BTMRR is small potatoes. (And it's a TRAIN!)

ETA: Philharmagic is AWESOME and I can't imagine any little girl wouldn't LOVE it. Planning for a quick exit is good, but I would try taking off glasses first. My youngest HATES 3-D (Can't even say HISTA around him) but LOVES LOVES LOVES Philharmagic. If they don't like dark, you are very wise to steer clear of POTC and the Haunted Mansion (my teens STILL won't ride the latter due to me traumatizing them in their youth by taking them on it and telling them it was "more funny than scary". It think I was right, but they HATE IT and will resent me forever for that decision...)

I am VERY excited for you and will be waiting on pins and needles to hear how it all turns out!:cheer2:Hi AC! Haven’t spent a whole lot of time on the dining board, but now you’ve piqued my curiosity. For us, loud meals are the best. The ones we have the problems with are the “sit quietly in a socially acceptable posture” types. The snack ideas sounded AWESOME. As to the E-ticket rides, we are planning to ride as many as possible the first 4 days while we have backups to watch the girls. Unless something changes, I plan to keep my youngest well clear of HM. I MAY let 7 year old give a try IF she wants to. Pirates is listed as a MAYBE for both, but we’ll see how things are going on other attractions first.


Well, I’m off to update. See Ya Real Soon!

[Connie96]

LONG time lurker, first time poster.

GB, I have loved every word of your report and I really can't wait to hear all about this month's trip. Neither my DH or I had ever been to WDW as kids so we "discovered" it together on our honeymoon almost 13 years ago. We have been back 3 times over the years and our next trip will be our first as parents. So... I'm really looking forward to your take on the difference between doing Disney with only grown-up "kids" versus parents w/little kids. :)

And, I gotta comment on that wonderfully geeky spreadsheet. I love it, but I must confess, my geekdom goes even further. Our DD is 2 years old now and we do not have her first WDW trip officially on the calendar just yet. But... I do have a spreadsheet that incorporates the height growth chart with WDW height restrictions. If she continues to grow at her current rate, I know about how old she'll be when she can ride Soarin' or Space Mountain or whatever. Until now, only my DH knew how demented I really am. Now it's out there for the world. :scared:

BTW... I am here in Central Texas, too, so we're practically neighbors!

[GreatBiscuit]

LONG time lurker, first time poster. AWESOME! :welcome: Congratulations on your first post! (You know there is not going back now right?)

GB, I have loved every word of your report and I really can't wait to hear all about this month's trip. Neither my DH or I had ever been to WDW as kids so we "discovered" it together on our honeymoon almost 13 years ago. We have been back 3 times over the years and our next trip will be our first as parents. So... I'm really looking forward to your take on the difference between doing Disney with only grown-up "kids" versus parents w/little kids. :) Thanks so much! I am totally looking forward to experiencing Disney as a dad.

And, I gotta comment on that wonderfully geeky spreadsheet. I love it, but I must confess, my geekdom goes even further. Our DD is 2 years old now and we do not have her first WDW trip officially on the calendar just yet. But... I do have a spreadsheet that incorporates the height growth chart with WDW height restrictions. If she continues to grow at her current rate, I know about how old she'll be when she can ride Soarin' or Space Mountain or whatever. Until now, only my DH knew how demented I really am. Now it's out there for the world. :scared::lmao: I may or may not have studied growth charts when planning the timing of a return trip. :rolleyes1

BTW... I am here in Central Texas, too, so we're practically neighbors!Awesome! HOWDY! If only Rusty Garrett could send some rain our way! :sad2:

[GreatBiscuit]

DOING THE SINGLE DIGIT HAPPY DANCE! :cool1: Sorry about missing yesterday’s update. I had an interesting day to say the least. Tracy’s school is replacing the carpet in every classroom with tile, so the teachers had to COMPLETELY empty their rooms and take everything home for the summer. I took the day off work to help her get it cleared out. After spending all day schlepping boxes into a metal shed, in the summer, in Texas, I was wiped out. (I’m not sure if it qualifies as Disney Training or not, but I definitely got a workout.) So without further distraction, I give you today’s (technically yesterday’s) episode:
_________________________

One of the more interesting things I have found in the many trip reports I’ve read is all of the handy things that some folks bring with them into the parks. I began to compile a list of those things which seemed to be of most benefit.

As the list began to grow, it soon became clear that the DIS beloved fanny pack would not be sufficient to store said goods, so I upgraded my hauling hardware to a backpack. (It had nothing to do with the fact that I wouldn’t be caught in a casket wearing a fanny pack….seriously.) Several things were amended, the list was trimmed, redone, and pared down and those items which made the final cut are as follows.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00733.jpg

Topping off our list is a collection of glow products. One of the tips I picked up from two different TR’s was to give younger kids a glow stick to hold onto in dark rides to help them through the “scary parts”. Both posters found it to be of benefit so I decided to give it a try. After some browsing and comparison shopping, I ordered a 25 count tube of 4” light sticks. They are small enough for the kids to keep up with, but put out a fairly good portion of light. These little boogers will pull double duty as a security light / nighttime fashion accessory.

The other glow item I picked up was a set of glow necklaces. I got enough for each kid to have one on each of our 3 EMH days. That way they feel like they are getting something special, and I don’t have to break the bank. ($1 each vs. whatever we’d have to pay in the park= no brainer.)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00734.jpg

Next up was a collection of small items which may or may not be needed, but could be of benefit. These include First Aid Kit, mini-sunscreen for touch ups, Tums for Disney Dining aftermath, Tylenol for headaches, Aleve for backpack induced backaches, mini-Sharpie for marking whatever needs it, extra-fat pens for characters, plastic bags to stuff things in if needed, mini-tissue for mini-noses, Shout wipes for over zealous Dole Whip consumption, Wet Ones (for faces & hands), Clorox wipes (For tables / chairs), and of course hand sanitizer. (I also have backups/extras for most of these items in the suitcase.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00737.jpg

Now batting for the Biscuits, we have the bulky gear. This includes 4 mister fans (2 large for grownups, 2 minis for the girls), 4 ponchos, walkie-talkie phones to augment our cell phones, and spare batteries. The two mini-misters have clamps to attach to the outside of the backpack and I plan to look for something similar for the larger ones. Not pictured is a pair of flip flops I plan to toss in, just in case my socks get wet.


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00742.jpg

Last but not least is the camera gear. Yes these are film cameras. No I am not packing a pair of parachute pants to go with them. Why still use film? If I bought the same type of cameras / lenses in a digital format, I wouldn’t be able to afford the trip. I WILL have my Sony Cybershot P&S digital camera (the one I used to take all these photos with) so I do have at least SOME modern gear. Plus my Blackberry has a 2 megapixel camera in it as well and I'll have that on my belt.

First up the camera bodies. The main one I shoot with is the Nikon N60, with a Nikon N65 as a backup. (Even though it’s supposedly a higher model, my N65 has a slower shutter response and the battery is much smaller so it doesn’t last as long.)

I’m also bringing my tried and trusty workhorse, the fully manual Yashica FX3. I bought this camera used in 1992 for a college photography course, and by my senior year, I was working as photo editor for the school paper and pushing 8-10 rolls of film per week through it. It’s been banged, dropped, smacked and rolled, but still pumps out great pics. It can be operated in bulb mode and has a slot for a cable release which I am also bringing. I plan to use is primarily for night / fireworks shots.

For lenses, I’m bringing my 50mm for the FX3 (which I love for its 1.9 minimum aperture), and my Sigma 28mm-80mm & Sigma 70mm-300mm zoom lenses for the Nikon. They both have Macro settings (1.2 & 3.3 respectively) so I hope to get some interesting close up shots.

Completing the photo accessories are a set of Cokin filters (Yellow, FL, Circular Polarizer) Cokin adapter rings for all 3 lenses & filter holder, a Lens Pen, and a hot shoe external flash. I also have 30 rolls of film standing by and ready to go. (Which I found fairly cheaply and when combined with pre-purchased processing from Snapfish.com, the overall cost is not that bad.)

There is also a video camera to go into the mix, but fortunately it’s a tiny one. I will likely be handing that duty off to First Lady Biscuit. I also picked up one of those waterproof disposable camera doojabbers, but I don’t know that I will bring it to the parks. I got it more for the Hippy Dippy / bubble jets. In the evenings, I’ll be attaching my tripod for the fireworks / night stuff.

Well, that about does it. I’ll be part tourist, part Sherpa and may throw the whole thing out the first day, but for now, that is “The Park Pack”.


Coming up on Episode 45 – Ummmm…..well…..I’ll cross that bridge when we get there.

Click here for the next episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32238616&postcount=564)

[brookelizabeth]

Happy Single Digits GB!!!!!!! :banana::banana::banana:

You are almost to the point where you can start doing the "Next week, we'll be in Disney World" game!

Yes these are film cameras. No I am not packing a pair of parachute pants to go with them.

:lmao:

Your camera gear rocks. I'm jealous.
I used to have a nice Pentax K1000, straight from the 1960s, but a friend of a friend "borrowed" it and well...I've never seen in since.

I haven't seen her since either! :laughing:

I had a couple lenses and filters for it too.

Sigh.

We now have a Canon XSI, but just the kit lens. Someday! But like you said, it's a toss up--great camera stuffs or WDW!


You are gonna have some big fans of the mini-tolietries pics you have here...there are many Target Aisle Travel Size Fans here!

[Kimberly815]

:banana::cool1: Single Digits! It's almost here!:cool1::banana:

[jcc0621]

Wahoo for the Single Digit Dance:yay::yay::yay:

You're gonna give V lens envy;)

[GreatBiscuit]

Happy Single Digits GB!!!!!!! :banana::banana::banana:

You are almost to the point where you can start doing the "Next week, we'll be in Disney World" game! Thanks! We already did the "Two Weeks from Now" game over the weekend!




Your camera gear rocks. I'm jealous.
I used to have a nice Pentax K1000, straight from the 1960s, but a friend of a friend "borrowed" it and well...I've never seen in since.

I haven't seen her since either! :laughing:

I had a couple lenses and filters for it too.

Sigh.

We now have a Canon XSI, but just the kit lens. Someday! But like you said, it's a toss up--great camera stuffs or WDW! One of my frieds on yearbook/newspaper staff shot with a K1000. That was a nifty camera. I liked the TTL light meter on it better than the FX 3, which just gives you a red plus, red minus or green dot.


You are gonna have some big fans of the mini-tolietries pics you have here...there are many Target Aisle Travel Size Fans here!Everything but the misters and the camera gear came from Target.

:banana::cool1: Single Digits! It's almost here!:cool1::banana:

Wahoo for the Single Digit Dance:yay::yay::yay:

Thanks Y'all

You're gonna give V lens envy;):lmao:

[chicagoshannon]

single digit dance :cool1::banana::dance3::woohoo::yay::cheer2:

I can't wait to see those pictures!

[ThreeTinks]

Catching up on your latest posts! We'll be at Pop in 3 days - ACK!!! I need to go find some of those little tiny travel sized items to take with us too.....back to Walmart :rotfl:

[DisneyMomLiz]

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00733.jpg

Topping off our list is a collection of glow products. One of the tips I picked up from two different TR’s was to give younger kids a glow stick to hold onto in dark rides to help them through the “scary parts”. Both posters found it to be of benefit so I decided to give it a try. After some browsing and comparison shopping, I ordered a 25 count tube of 4” light sticks. They are small enough for the kids to keep up with, but put out a fairly good portion of light. These little boogers will pull double duty as a security light / nighttime fashion accessory.

The other glow item I picked up was a set of glow necklaces. I got enough for each kid to have one on each of our 3 EMH days. That way they feel like they are getting something special, and I don’t have to break the bank. ($1 each vs. whatever we’d have to pay in the park= no brainer.)

[/B]

The glowsticks are a great idea. I brought along some of the necklaces (also from great Dis advice) and my DS loved them! :thumbsup2

Wish I had thought to buy the misting fans ahead of time, it was so hot :eek: we almost paid $17 for one in the park (yes, almost...we did resist, but just barely, week after Mem. Day was HOT, HOT!!).

HOORAY!!! :cheer2: Single Digit Dance :woohoo: :banana: Have a fabulous trip!

[coffeehousemom]

GB have you seen the battery operated glow necklaces? I know you can get the in sporting goods aisle around here. You can turn them on & off & run on a aa? battery.

Also have guys tried out the 3 in 1 laundry sheets that are out there? They are awesome very compact easy for travel & packing 1 sheet does all 3. Great for camping etc.:cutie:

[My2Qtz0205]

Where did you get the mister fans? That is one thing on my list I haven't found yet.

[GreatBiscuit]

single digit dance :cool1::banana::dance3::woohoo::yay::cheer2:

I can't wait to see those pictures!I can't wait to take them!

Catching up on your latest posts! We'll be at Pop in 3 days - ACK!!! I need to go find some of those little tiny travel sized items to take with us too.....back to Walmart :rotfl:Gotta love travel sized stuff. It's so...I don't know...petite. 3 Days! WOOOHOOO!

The glowsticks are a great idea. I brought along some of the necklaces (also from great Dis advice) and my DS loved them! :thumbsup2

Wish I had thought to buy the misting fans ahead of time, it was so hot :eek: we almost paid $17 for one in the park (yes, almost...we did resist, but just barely, week after Mem. Day was HOT, HOT!!).

HOORAY!!! :cheer2: Single Digit Dance :woohoo: :banana: Have a fabulous trip!Glad the glow necklaces turend out to be a hit! I don't think I could have brought myself to do the $17 deal either!

GB have you seen the battery operated glow necklaces? I know you can get the in sporting goods aisle around here. You can turn them on & off & run on a aa? battery.

Also have guys tried out the 3 in 1 laundry sheets that are out there? They are awesome very compact easy for travel & packing 1 sheet does all 3. Great for camping etc.:cutie:I haven't seen those but, not now I have to Googl'it!

Where did you get the mister fans? That is one thing on my list I haven't found yet.
I found these at Wal-Mart. The store I purchased them at had them on an end-cap in the paint section. (Oddly enough). I saw them at another Wal-Mart on the same aisle as the regular fans.

[chunkymonkey]

[SIZE="3"]

For lenses, I’m bringing my 50mm for the FX3 (which I love for its 1.9 minimum aperture), and my Sigma 28mm-80mm & Sigma 70mm-300mm zoom lenses for the Nikon. They both have Macro settings (1.2 & 3.3 respectively) so I hope to get some interesting close up shots.

Completing the photo accessories are a set of Cokin filters (Yellow, FL, Circular Polarizer) Cokin adapter rings for all 3 lenses & filter holder, a Lens Pen, and a hot shoe external flash. I also have 30 rolls of film standing by and ready to go. (Which I found fairly cheaply and when combined with pre-purchased processing from Snapfish.com, the overall cost is not that bad.)


oooh you really have some set up there. I used to do film photography in high school, (developing film included) and I still love the look of film, with is grain and everything. Of course nothing beats the instant gratification of digital, but part of me still loves the old-school film look. I do really love circular polarizer filters. It really creates such nice crisp pictures of blue skies and water.

I am not sure you have this on your list already, but one thing you might want as part of your "kit" are ziploc bags. I just wrote this as part of my next installment of my TR but thought I'd share it with you here in case you dont' have time to read it before your trip:

"A good tip: I brought along a few large gallon-sized Ziploc bags that I was able to store our used ponchos in. That way, if it stopped raining, we can fold up our ponchos compactly, put them in the bag, flatten it to get rid of all the air, and then seal it and store it in my pocketbook or another bag without creating extra bulk. It also keeps everything else in your bag dry, especially things like cameras and cell phones. Ziplocs are great! They are like instant space bags (the kind on tv where you vacuum all the air out)"

Your trip is approaching fast! Can't wait to read the rest of your TR.

[GreatBiscuit]

oooh you really have some set up there. I used to do film photography in high school, (developing film included) and I still love the look of film, with is grain and everything. Of course nothing beats the instant gratification of digital, but part of me still loves the old-school film look. I do really love circular polarizer filters. It really creates such nice crisp pictures of blue skies and water.

I am not sure you have this on your list already, but one thing you might want as part of your "kit" are ziploc bags. I just wrote this as part of my next installment of my TR but thought I'd share it with you here in case you dont' have time to read it before your trip:

"A good tip: I brought along a few large gallon-sized Ziploc bags that I was able to store our used ponchos in. That way, if it stopped raining, we can fold up our ponchos compactly, put them in the bag, flatten it to get rid of all the air, and then seal it and store it in my pocketbook or another bag without creating extra bulk. It also keeps everything else in your bag dry, especially things like cameras and cell phones. Ziplocs are great! They are like instant space bags (the kind on tv where you vacuum all the air out)"

Your trip is approaching fast! Can't wait to read the rest of your TR.I LOVED printing photos in the darkroom! Thats one of things I miss the most about college. We'll definitely have an influx of Ziplocks. Tracy lives by them whenever we travel. Doing the 1 week dance!

[jordanyosh]

:worship::worship::worship::worship:

Your stash of goodies to bring along.....just bring a Target shopping cart.:thumbsup2 That should work fine.

:banana::banana:single digits......

[GreatBiscuit]

:worship::worship::worship::worship:

Your stash of goodies to bring along.....just bring a Target shopping cart.:thumbsup2 That should work fine.

:banana::banana:single digits......
That's not a bad idea!

[GreatBiscuit]

This will be my final update before our trip. If you recall a couple of episodes back, my dad made the mistake of wondering out loud whether he should write a TR about my first visit to The World as a three year old. I am happy to report that my mom emailed me the final update on Tuesday, so this Monday’s update will be a Biscuit’s Grand Adventure Prequel Retro Report. Next Thursday is D-Day so on the off chance I get to post something, it will be a short mini-update.

It has been an interesting and entertaining ride thus far. I have enjoyed recounting my past tales of woe and triumph, and sharing the excitement for our upcoming journey. Now after 45 episodes, I’m FINALLY about to embark on the trip that this entire report is geared towards.

For this installment, I will mainly be offering up a few final thoughts concerning our trip. First up: our final preparations. This Saturday, we are heading to the bank to cash in the change from the girls’ piggy banks. I imagine we’ll also wind up at Kohls and Target as well. I also still have to print out “The Plan” & my name tag for my backpack.

BTW - If you are in the parks and see somebody with this, give a shout out:

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/gb.jpg

We still need to sort out which luggage we are bringing, and create a packing list. (I know FOR SURE we’ll be bringing two of the new suitcases.) AND I’m sure we’ll be doing laundry this weekend to start putting together clothing options. We’ve definitely figured out the kids’ wardrobe for one of the evenings. My wife’s school had an end of the year party for the teachers with a luau theme. We scored some of the leftover decorations, so for our meal at 'Ohana, the kids will have leis, and the girls will have matching flowers in their hair. Plus they will all have Hawaiian/Floral outfits on. I may or may not find something to go with the motif.

Moving on to our final trip planning, some ideas we are tossing around for our open day include Downtown Disney, Disney Quest, Fort Wilderness petting zoo, mini-golf, renting a boat, and chilling out at the resort. (We’ll see what strikes our fancy at the time.) I would love to try parasailing, but out of concern for the safety of my fellow park guests, I will forgo this particular activity. If the harness were to break I could just see the headlines now. “Magic Kingdom Engulfed by Tidal Wave! First Responders Find Bay Lake Drained and a Chubby Texan Half Buried in the Mud!”

As to anticipation, we have been counting down the days for the past 6 weeks now. The girls helped me make this chart:

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00725.jpg

It hangs on the closet door in the office and we have been marking off the days. There is a Texas sticker on the 18th for the day we leave to go to Houston, and a shell sticker on the 19th for the day we leave for Orlando.

As to the topic of live updates from Orlando, it may or may not happen. If so, I’ll start a post here and update it as I can. (If I do happen to add any updates, they will be all in the same post rather than multiple postings.)

I guess that about does it. I can’t wait to start the actual TR, though I am even more excited about the actual T. See ya real soon my friends!

Coming up on Biscuit's Grand Adventure: As I Recall - a 1977 Retro Report.

Click here for the Next Episode. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32288727&postcount=581)

[Backstage_Gal]

Hope you have a fabulous time!


Warning, it's dang frigging HOT here!

[brookelizabeth]

Can you believe you are down to your last real PTR post?

Your 'day off' plans sound great-that is kinda how I like to go with it too, have some things in mind, but nothing really set in stone...just roll with whatever ya'll are feeling that day.

This week will fly by with all the final Target runs, decision making and packing frenzy! :yay:

I'm looking forward the Prequel. :goodvibes

[debsters41]

Lurker here! Coming out to wish you a fabulous time!

[chicagoshannon]

WOO HOO less then a week now! Love your kids names! Do you have a real name? lol

[PrincessV]

After spending all day schlepping boxes into a metal shed, in summer, in Texas, I was wiped out. (I’m not sure if it qualifies as Disney Training or not, but I definitely got a workout.)
:faint: It's been in the high 90s all week and no rain here... I'm dying just bringing in groceries!

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00742.jpg
Yes these are film cameras.
:worship::worship::worship::worship::worship:

Dude. I've got chills. They're multiplying. The timing of reading this post is so interesting... I was rummaging through my photographic arsenal last night trying to find an extra flash card for the crappy camera I let Leo use, and found myself holding my ancient, circa-1962 Nikon F. Looking at it adoringly and seriously contemplating bringing it on my Aug. trip. It's fully manual, film, and the light meter's shot thanks to FL humidity. But it still takes pictures a thousand times better than my fancy-shmancy Canon SLR and it's solid steel - the sucker's indestructible! :love: I absolutely cannot wait to see your trip pics! :cheer2:

I guess that about does it. I can’t wait to start the actual TR, though I am even more excited about the actual T. See ya real soon my friends!
:goodvibes Biscuits, have a fabulous, amazing, incredible trip! :banana:

[Kimberly815]

Have an awesome trip! We will be waiting anxiously for your return so we can hear more tales of triumph! (We will hear the woes too, but I am hoping that there really aren't any!):cool1:

[AshClan]

:woohoo: HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME, GB!!!! :woohoo:

I can't wait to hear all about it!!

[GreatBiscuit]

Hope you have a fabulous time!


Warning, it's dang frigging HOT here!Thanks BSG! It's a bit warm here too! I can’t wait to visit your neck of the woods.

Can you believe you are down to your last real PTR post? I know! It’s CRAZY!


Your 'day off' plans sound great-that is kinda how I like to go with it too, have some things in mind, but nothing really set in stone...just roll with whatever ya'll are feeling that day. I’m looking forward to it!


This week will fly by with all the final Target runs, decision making and packing frenzy! :yay:

I'm looking forward the Prequel. :goodvibes I’m hoping it goes quickly! Can’t hardly wait!

Lurker here! Coming out to wish you a fabulous time!:welcome: Glad to have you here! Thanks for posting and for the bon-voyage.

WOO HOO less then a week now! Love your kids names! Do you have a real name? lolYEAH! Thanks! It’s Matt, or Alice Hugger. My parents & sisters call me Bubba….it’s a Texas thing.

:faint: It's been in the high 90s all week and no rain here... I'm dying just bringing in groceries! Woo-hoo – nothing like melting in the MK.

Dude. I've got chills. They're multiplying. The timing of reading this post is so interesting... I was rummaging through my photographic arsenal last night trying to find an extra flash card for the crappy camera I let Leo use, and found myself holding my ancient, circa-1962 Nikon F. Looking at it adoringly and seriously contemplating bringing it on my Aug. trip. It's fully manual, film, and the light meter's shot thanks to FL humidity. But it still takes pictures a thousand times better than my fancy-shmancy Canon SLR and it's solid steel - the sucker's indestructible! :love: I absolutely cannot wait to see your trip pics! :cheer2: I love the old metal SLR’s. I’d say bring it with you. But I may be biased.


goodvibes Biscuits, have a fabulous, amazing, incredible trip! :banana:Thanks!

Have an awesome trip! We will be waiting anxiously for your return so we can hear more tales of triumph! (We will hear the woes too, but I am hoping that there really aren't any!):cool1:Here’s to triumph!

:woohoo: HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME, GB!!!! :woohoo:

I can't wait to hear all about it!!Thanks AC!

[whogirl'smom]

I hope you guys have a wonderful time! Eat some Tonga Toast for me!

[GreatBiscuit]

I hope you guys have a wonderful time! Eat some Tonga Toast for me!Thanks! We don't have any b-fast plans at the poly this time around. Just one more reason for another trip!

[bedillamouse]

Have a blast!!!! Just remember to just stop once in a while and take a good look around along with a deep breath...it's those times that just stick in your mind!

[brookelizabeth]

4 days GB! :yay:

[Connie96]

GB, if you like doing the "test run" thing, this 100 degree heat here at home oughta be good practice for WDW next week. You could even break in those mister fans - or possibly wear them out before you get there. A friend/colleague of mine and his family are at WDW right now and I got an email complaining of the heat at 9:30am DDT (Disney-daylight-time). If 9:30am heat is complaint-worthy to a Texan, 3:30pm heat may just turn you into a puddle on the sidewalk. :scared: Y'all be careful out there. Drink LOTS of water!!! :drinking:

Safe travels! Can't wait to hear all about it when you return!

[GreatBiscuit]

Have a blast!!!! Just remember to just stop once in a while and take a good look around along with a deep breath...it's those times that just stick in your mind! Thanks and will do!

4 days GB! :yay::cool1:

GB, if you like doing the "test run" thing, this 100 degree heat here at home oughta be good practice for WDW next week. You could even break in those mister fans - or possibly wear them out before you get there. A friend/colleague of mine and his family are at WDW right now and I got an email complaining of the heat at 9:30am DDT (Disney-daylight-time). If 9:30am heat is complaint-worthy to a Texan, 3:30pm heat may just turn you into a puddle on the sidewalk. :scared: Y'all be careful out there. Drink LOTS of water!!! :drinking:

Safe travels! Can't wait to hear all about it when you return!The Mister fan got a good workout yesterday. Had some necessary yard work and that was the only time between now and departure that it could be done.

I'll be updating later today. Ya'll take care now!

[All7OfUs]

Hey Great Biscuit Clan!

Here to wish you a fabulously, wonderful time!! Seriously looking forward to your TR when you return.

Have a super time!

[GreatBiscuit]

Hey Great Biscuit Clan!

Here to wish you a fabulously, wonderful time!! Seriously looking forward to your TR when you return.

Have a super time!
Thanks! I hope you guys are doing okay!

[GreatBiscuit]

A few episodes back, I mentioned that my Dad had struck upon the idea of possibly writing a TR about my very first EVER trip when I was 3. After a bit of pestering and collaborating with my mom, he has completed his opus. My mom emailed me the final update last week, and I now post it for your reading pleasure. I look forward to reporting on our upcoming trip soon!
_______________
Great Biscuit has thrown out the challenge so now it is up to the Mother and Father Loaf (hereafter referred to as ML and FL) to respond. Please keep in mind that we don’t have as much yeast as in days gone by so our report will not be as colorful as that of the offspring Biscuit.

If you have followed the TR (see we can use acronyms too) of GB, you know that the FL has always had kind of a sick fascination with Time Share companies. GB’s first trip to Disney began with a simple ad in TV Guide. The ad stated that for $29.99 you could get three nights in a hotel, breakfast daily and two free tickets to Disney.

There was only one small detail added to that – you had to listen to the sales picth for a time share in order to get your free tickets. FL saw this as quite the challenge, so the reservation was made. ML packed the clothes, got the “on the road” bag ready, and off we went for GB’s Grand Adventure.

The road trip from Tennessee to Orlando was fairly uneventful. GB slept well in the car and I like to drive at night. As I recall we left around 10:00 pm. ML and GB were asleep within thirty minutes and I had the rest of the night to drive and talk on the CB. Of course, I also went through an entire package of beef jerky with two or three RC’s from the cooler. It was sheer heaven!

We arrived at the “hotel” about noon. It was literally in the middle of an orange grove. It was actually a budget motel but it was clean, had a pool and we were getting tickets to Disney so it didn’t matter. We spent the afternoon in the pool and thinking about our trip to Disney on the next day.

After a good nights sleep, we went to the breakfast in the dining room and prepared to listen to the 2 hour sales pitch. I was already thinking about how I could string them along and then at the last minute reel them in. ML reminded me several times during breakfast to wipe the silly grin off my face. After breakfast, the sales manager took the microphone and much to my surprise said, “ If you are sincerely interested in buying property please stay with us, if not pick up your tickets at the front desk and enjoy your day at Disney. “

Oh no, what about my plan of attack! I could see by the look on ML’s face that staying for the presentation was not an option. She was already standing and getting GB loaded into his stroller. I had just driven 16 hours and wasn’t going to get to toy with someone’s mind! But a wise man knows that when the ML speaks, it’s time for action. So with great disappointment I got up and for the first time ever walked away from the time share dude. I have to say, it was a sad day for the FL. I wasn’t sure that even a trip to the MK could lift my spirits. WRONG!

As I recall, the trip to WDW was about 30 minutes from where we were staying. I remember being amazed at the size of the parking lot. We had not moved to Texas at that time so we weren’t used to everything being big. We parked, made note of where we were and began to load up for the day. Not being nearly as organized as GB, it did not take long. It was pretty much put GB in the stroller, grab the diaper bag and go. We waited for the next shuttle and headed up to the main gate.

I believe we rode a boat over to the main park but that might have been on another trip. Shoot, with my memory it might have been in another lifetime. Anyway, we finally go to THE gate and made our way inside. Main Street was amazing. We strolled down the street and basically followed the crowd. I really don’t remember what order we went in or even most of the rides. I do remember we ate a Pinnochio’s and rode Pirates of the Caribbean, which GB loved! We also rode Dumbo and did It’s a Small World. GB was in awe most of the day. He loved every minute of it and because of that, so did we.

We also saw The Main Street Electrical Parade which was brand new. GB loved that as well. Following the parade, we went into some of the shops, and bought a few souvenirs (although I don’t remember what or where they are now). We then got in a big line, waited a long time and finally headed to the car. It had been a magical day and little did we know that we had started the great love GB would have for WDW.

We were not nearly as prepared for that trip as we are for this one, thanks to the planning of GB. We have our transportation, our reservations, our meals, our back packs, our spreadsheet – none of which we had the first time. But the one thing about our first trip to WDW with GB remains the same on this trip – we will be seeing the magic through the eyes of children we adore. And isn’t that really what it’s all about!

Thanks to GB and First Lady Biscuit for including the “Old Folks” on this one. We can’t wait!

PS - Three weeks after we went to WDW, ML’s brother and his new bride went to the same time share on the same $29 deal we had. Unfortunately in the 3 weeks since we had been there, it had gone into receivership and no longer was open, stranding them with no motel or park tickets. Oops! Maybe that should have been a sign that our family, honeymoons and WDW just don’t make a good combination.

Coming up on Episode 47 – The Live Broadcast.

Click here to be taken to the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32339055&postcount=603.)

[Backstage_Gal]

What a sweet update, thanks GB's dad! Dang, I'm even sorry myself you got cheated out of that timeshare sales talk, LOL

Loved it! Wish the whole GB clan a safe and wonderful trip!

[brookelizabeth]

GB even on your very first trip you ate at PVH! You HAVE TO AT LEAST GET A COKE FROM THERE! Don't break the record!!!!!! :laughing:


FL, I'm sorry to hear you didn't get to wrangle the timeshare dude! ;)

But the one thing about our first trip to WDW with GB remains the same on this trip – we will be seeing the magic through the eyes of children we adore. And isn’t that really what it’s all about!


Yes, exactly. And it's such a wonderful thing to experience. :love:


Our church is having a week long conference so we are busy, busy this week-I don't know if I'll be back on before you leave, so if I am not....HAVE A FANTASTIC TRIP!!! I look forward to reading all about it when you get back. :goodvibes

[chicagoshannon]

aw what a great way to end your PTR!

Have a wonderful time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'll be anxiously awaiting your trip details when you return. :)

[Normangirls]

The CB, beef jerky, and RC Cola all to yourself? All night? Father Loaf (do you maybe have another son named Meat?), you are as funny and entertaining as your son.

I think you need to write a TR of your own. Heck, you need to collaborate with GB and write a sitcom of your own. Some possible names:

Loaf 'N Biscuit?
Happy Days (at WDW)
I Love Biscuit
Make Room for Biscuit
Biscuit Knows Best
Get Smart (with the Time Share Salesman)
The Biscuit Bunch
All in the Timeshare
Everybody Loves Biscuit
Biscuit in the Middle
That Biscuit Show



GB: have a WONDERFUL time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Kimberly815]

Great Biscuit has thrown out the challenge so now it is up to the Mother and Father Loaf ( hereafter referred to as ML and FL) to respond. Please keep in mind that we don’t have as much yeast as in days gone by so our report will not be as colorful as that of the offspring Biscuit.


This paragraph alone proves that you are definitely part what make GreatBiscut great!


If you have followed the TR (see we can use acronyms too) of GB


:lmao:


“ If you are sincerely interested in buying property please stay with us, if not pick up your tickets at the front desk and enjoy your day at Disney. “

Oh no, what about my plan of attack! I could see by the look on ML’s face that staying for the presentation was not an option. She was already standing and getting GB loaded into his stroller. I had just driven 16 hours and wasn’t going to get to toy with someone’s mind! But a wise man knows that when the ML speaks, it’s time for action. So with great disappointment I got up and for the first time ever walked away from the time share dude. I have to say, it was a sad day for the FL.


A very sad day indeed! That poor timeshare guy doesn't know how lucky he was that day!


But the one thing about our first trip to WDW with GB remains the same on this trip – we will be seeing the magic through the eyes of children we adore. And isn’t that really what it’s all about!


Yes it is! I can't wait to hear all about the trip! And I hope we hear some lovely Mother and Father Loaf commentary too!

ONLY 2 DAYS LEFT!:cool1:

[GreatBiscuit]

What a sweet update, thanks GB's dad! Dang, I'm even sorry myself you got cheated out of that timeshare sales talk, LOL

Loved it! Wish the whole GB clan a safe and wonderful trip!Thanks BSG! Doing the 2 day :banana:

GB even on your very first trip you ate at PVH! You HAVE TO AT LEAST GET A COKE FROM THERE! Don't break the record!!!!!! :laughing:I'm sure we'll stop in a LEAST once.

Our church is having a week long conference so we are busy, busy this week-I don't know if I'll be back on before you leave, so if I am not....HAVE A FANTASTIC TRIP!!! I look forward to reading all about it when you get back. :goodvibes Thanks! Have a great week!

aw what a great way to end your PTR!

Have a wonderful time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'll be anxiously awaiting your trip details when you return. :)Thanks! It's been a week...can't WAIT to start vacation!

The CB, beef jerky, and RC Cola all to yourself? All night? Father Loaf (do you maybe have another son named Meat?), you are as funny and entertaining as your son.

I think you need to write a TR of your own. Heck, you need to collaborate with GB and write a sitcom of your own. Some possible names:

Loaf 'N Biscuit?
Happy Days (at WDW)
I Love Biscuit
Make Room for Biscuit
Biscuit Knows Best
Get Smart (with the Time Share Salesman)
The Biscuit Bunch
All in the Timeshare
Everybody Loves Biscuit
Biscuit in the Middle
That Biscuit Show



GB: have a WONDERFUL time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Love the :happytv: suggestions. :lmao: I imagine there will be further calloborative updates.


Yes it is! I can't wait to hear all about the trip! And I hope we hear some lovely Mother and Father Loaf commentary too!

ONLY 2 DAYS LEFT!:cool1: Thanks! We are doing the happy dance non stop.


Thanks for posting everyone. I've created a login for my folks so they can reply as well. (After 5+ months of lurking, I'd say it's about time.)

[AshClan]

Okay, now I see where GB gets his charm and wit ;) Great blast from the past Dad! Loved it!!

I hope you all have an extremely wonderful trip, full of pixie dust and joy. And little rain.:thumbsup2

I can't wait to hear how it all turns out!!!:yay:

Bon Voyage!:wizard:

[Nana & Papa Biscuit]

What a sweet update, thanks GB's dad! Dang, I'm even sorry myself you got cheated out of that timeshare sales talk, LOL

Loved it! Wish the whole GB clan a safe and wonderful trip!
I know - it was a disappointment. But I have made up for it several times :)

[burly]

GB and LGB, the yummy crumbs and Nana and Papa bisquit. Have a great time! Can't wait to hear/read all about it. :banana::banana::banana::banana::cheer2::cheer2::c heer2:

[jordanyosh]

Now the whole biscuit clan is here.:worship::worship:

[PrincessV]

After breakfast, the sales manager took the microphone and much to my surprise said, “ If you are sincerely interested in buying property please stay with us, if not pick up your tickets at the front desk and enjoy your day at Disney. “
But, but, but... you were so prepared! :sad2:
But the one thing about our first trip to WDW with GB remains the same on this trip – we will be seeing the magic through the eyes of children we adore. And isn’t that really what it’s all about!
::yes::


Biscuits and Loaves - you're down to ONE DAY!!! :yay: In Fuzzy Disney Time, it's like you're already there. ;) Have a fantastic time all!

[joleen76]

Whew!! All caught up again and just in time for you to leave for the great big world. Yes I still not so secretly wish it was me going but none the less.

YOU ARE LEAVING FOR THE WORLD TOMORROW!!!!! :cool1::cheer2::cool1::cheer2::banana::banana::coo l1::cheer2::cool1::cheer2::cool1::banana::banana:

Have a GREAT time and can't wait to read all about it when you get back!

[GreatBiscuit]

Okay, now I see where GB gets his charm and wit ;) Great blast from the past Dad! Loved it!!

I hope you all have an extremely wonderful trip, full of pixie dust and joy. And little rain.:thumbsup2

I can't wait to hear how it all turns out!!!:yay:

Bon Voyage!:wizard:Thanks AC! We're going through the final day packing frenzy now! I have a list of stuff to pick up on my lunch break.

I know - it was a disappointment. But I have made up for it several times :):welcome: I'm glad the login worked! I'll be bringin my laptop on with us so I'll learn you how to multi-quote.

GB and LGB, the yummy crumbs and Nana and Papa bisquit. Have a great time! Can't wait to hear/read all about it. :banana::banana::banana::banana::cheer2::cheer2::c heer2:Thanks Burly! Can't Wait, Can't Wait, Can't Wait!

Now the whole biscuit clan is here.:worship::worship: I have an uncontrollable urge to bust out into song. The Coca-Cola Christmas song to be specific. Which is odd, but sadly in character for me.


Biscuits and Loaves - you're down to ONE DAY!!! :yay: In Fuzzy Disney Time, it's like you're already there. ;) Have a fantastic time all!Thanks PV!

[GreatBiscuit]

Whew!! All caught up again and just in time for you to leave for the great big world. Yes I still not so secretly wish it was me going but none the less.

YOU ARE LEAVING FOR THE WORLD TOMORROW!!!!! :cool1::cheer2::cool1::cheer2::banana::banana::coo l1::cheer2::cool1::cheer2::cool1::banana::banana:

Have a GREAT time and can't wait to read all about it when you get back!
Somehow missed you on the multiquote. (Better learn myself before I teach the parentals!)

Thanks for the well wishes. I understand completely. Having lived vicariously through the TR board for over a decade, I totally get that "wish it was me" sentiment.

[Connie96]

ONE DAY, GB!!!! I'm so excited for y'all, you'd think I was going too!!

The "day before" is awesome. I swear, one of my favorite parts of any vacation is the total serenity of walking from my office building to my car with the whole wonderful week right out in front of me. And it doesn't even matter whether or not I'm already packed or if I have to get up at 3am the next morning to make my flight.

There are lots of opportunities for big anticipation before a Disney vacation from the original planning right up to bouncing in your seat on the Magical Express, or the outright chomping at the bit during the first approach to the Magic Kingdom.

But, somehow just walking away from the office, I can just feel the "real life" stuff just falling off of my shoulders knowing that for the next week I can just be a kid again. Now, if I could bottle THAT, I'd put Prozac and Xanax right out of business and I'd be rich enough to LIVE at WDW. I think I lost my train of thought...

Y'all have an awesome trip GB and family! And enjoy your "day before" too! :)

[GreatBiscuit]

ONE DAY, GB!!!! I'm so excited for y'all, you'd think I was going too!!

The "day before" is awesome. I swear, one of my favorite parts of any vacation is the total serenity of walking from my office building to my car with the whole wonderful week right out in front of me. And it doesn't even matter whether or not I'm already packed or if I have to get up at 3am the next morning to make my flight.

There are lots of opportunities for big anticipation before a Disney vacation from the original planning right up to bouncing in your seat on the Magical Express, or the outright chomping at the bit during the first approach to the Magic Kingdom.

But, somehow just walking away from the office, I can just feel the "real life" stuff just falling off of my shoulders knowing that for the next week I can just be a kid again. Now, if I could bottle THAT, I'd put Prozac and Xanax right out of business and I'd be rich enough to LIVE at WDW. I think I lost my train of thought...

Y'all have an awesome trip GB and family! And enjoy your "day before" too! :)
I'm definitely feeling it. I just my last break before Disney, finished my last project before Disney, and can't wait to walk out of work for the last time before Disney. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOTY!

[Backstage_Gal]

Happy trails to you................. !

[DisneyMomLiz]

:cheer2: Yay...the Biscuit Clan will be at WDW soon :banana: :banana: :cheer2: :yay:

FL - loved the Retro Report. Thanks for sharing :goodvibes

Lot's of pixiedust: throughout your trip!! Can't wait to hear all about it! :woohoo:

[Kimberly815]

Have a great trip!!!

[Mrs. The King]

Have a wonderful trip. If you see a really jiggly jiggler, call my name! :cool1:

[brookelizabeth]

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yay: HAVE A FANTASTIC TRIP!!!

:dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:

[GreatBiscuit]

Friday

1230AM - Thanks for all the well wishes...my phone doesn't support multi quote so I will reply later. We made it to Houston safe and sound and are just a few short hours from departure. I already have some great material for the TR, not the least of which was having the car next to us catch fire at a red light on our way out of town...well I only have about three and a half hours left to try to sleep. I'll see ya real soon!

1015AM - Waiting in Magical Express Line...Not overly crowded.

3 PM - we LOVE the Pop Century. Just got the girls up from a MUCH needed nap and preparing to head to MK and Chef Mickeys!

735 PM - we have just begun dessert at Chef Mickeys and I gotta say I am diggin' this joint.


Saturday

1030 AM-Spectacular day yesterday. Can't wait to share it with you. Didn't get to bed till 3 am! The kids did FANTASTIC! (We are now born again FASTPASS believers.) I am the only one up now. I am letting my ladies sleep since they went to bed so late. I'll let you know how things are going soon!

345 PM I'm sitting on the benches just inside the Soarin area waiting on the Biscuit clan to finish up in the powder room. The Land is a bustling place today. Fast Passes are ALMOST gone for Soarin. (830-900) return time. Our next stop is the international gateway for a friendship launch to the Boardwalk.

600 PM - we are happily munching on some hot dinner rolls at Momma Melrose. The crowds at the studios are much thinner than EPCOT. Just did the GMR (Aunt Jana had never been on it) and it was literally a walk on...the car was half empty. Got a few shots of a deserted courtyard in front of Muppets 3D. The kids are still doing well. Had a bit of drama earlier concerning an item I "misplaced" but it would not be a proper Biscuit Adventure without it.

800 PM walked past the 80 min standby for Toy Story and came into lobby for Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Still crazy hot outside.

930 PM - We had some of Jordans park mojo rub off on us. What attraction would be the kids favorite and which would they hate? The answer will surprise you. It shocked the Biscuits out of me!


Sunday

745 AM - Good morning DISers! I am enjoying breakfast in Everything POP, getting ready to take some resort photos. Today is Animal Kingdom day. I can't wait to see this park in person. Got some great stuff to share with you guys when we get back!

1245 PM - We are sitting in luxurious air conditioning awaiting the start of the 1 PM Finding Nemo The Musical. It's a scorcher today!

400 PM - Howdy All! We are headed back to the Pop for a dip in Pool before heading to dinner at ‘Ohana. Kahli river rapids + Bus AC = Frozen but happy Biscuit. Tonight is MK EMH! Until then...

625 PM - Riding the monorail to our dinner at ‘Ohana. The kids are all dressed up in their Hawaiian garb. We can't wait to give it a try!

925 PM - Spectro has just cleared Town Square, and life is good. If heaven serves dessert, it is going to be ‘Ohana bread pudding. I am not normally a sweet eater, but holy Frick-Fracking Gibblets Batman! As is my new custom I am sitting on a bench, waiting on the ladies. The porch next to Town Hall to be specific. It is still quite warm out, but we are looking forward to a great EMH.

1030 - GB here broadcasting from deep in the heart of fantasyland. Mister flans are still in season and elephants are taking to the sky. Tahlia and Hailee are eagerly awaiting a first spin on Dumbo...sign shows 20 min wait...been six, and I suspect false advertising, but time will tell.

4:00 AM - yes I know it is technically Monday, but we have arived back from EMH and had a Crazy Good Time. I've been up 22 hours, but I am still smiling. (No the girls weren't up that long...I couldn't sleep.) Somehow I don't think that will be a problem now. Goodbye Plan 3.0! It was fun while it lasted. GreatBiscuit is sleeping in!

Monday

130 ish PM- a near catastrophe has struck! Will the Biscuit clan recover? Only time and Trrip Reports will tell. GB here reporting live from Epcot. A missed ADR and a down FastPass kiosk have threatened to squelch our park joy. But wait, there on the horizon is a glimmer of hope! Could it be? IT IS. SCORE FOR THE MOJO!

700 PM - Hello friends! GB here broadcasting live from the shadow of Spaceship Earth. We had a late start and sleepy Biscuits, but we've had another great day. We are taking inventory now to decide where to go from here. I hope you are all having a fantastic day!

800 PM - and the winner is: DHS! Having some chow now and gonna take in a coupla attractions before the second showing of FANTASMIC!

Tuesday

2PM - Howdy Ya'll! This was our do whatever day and we are now on a bus heading to DHS. First Lady Biscuit's Aunt and Uncle are here so we are going to ley the kids see their cousins. C Ya soon.

225 PM - The horror! The tragedy! The sheer humanity of it all! Min and Sids no longer serves cheese stuffed pretzels!

320 PM - Its cooler today, JOY! Playhouse Disney just started.

430 PM - Well, we are on the bus, just pulling into Wilderness lodge for our dinner at Whispering Canyon!

845 PM - greetings all. We are sitting curbside in the Hub directly in front of where the trolley tracks split, waiting on the start of Spectro. There are rows of people behind us, hula hoopers before us and smiles all around.

Nearing Midnight - We just finished up a dip in the computer pool and preparing to head to bed. Goodnight everyone!

Wednesday

245 PM - Greetings from building 5, floor three, directly above the kiddie pool of the Pop. There were princesses in excess this morning as we experienced the joys of another character meal. Heat wave is back and the girls were out of steam, so the parents Biscuit vetoed "The Plan" and signaled for a nap.

700 PM - The naps did a world of good. We are now deep within the confines of The Land pavilion preparing to use our FastPasses for our inaugural ride on SOARIN

Thursday

1040 AM - Greetings from the east side of Future World. I am trying to regain my Earth legs, and waiting on my lens to defog so I can take a few photos


1145 AM.- What an awesome morning! I think Epcot is my new favorite thing! (Except for when it comes to catching a bus back to the Pop!)

1215 PM - After many moons and no bus, a helpful driver had us board his bus to DHS and is now dropping us at the resort. Gonna collect my crew and head back out.

200 PM - I have collected the ladies and we are on the bus headed to Animal Kingdom. Gonna be doing some creative park hopping today! Wish us luck!

545 PM - At my third park of the day. We are doing "pickups", getting in our final must do attractions. We are awaiting the start of Beauty and the Beast at DHS. Show should be going on any moment now.

935 PM - GB broadcasting live from The Electric Umbrella. Just finished watching illuminations and grabbing a bite while the crowds thin. Only a couple of things the girls really want to do for EMH so we are taking it easy. I have to give kudos to CM Bill of the Friendship 7. He saw an issue Hailee was having and came up with a truly magical solution. I can't wait to tell you all about it.

Friday

900 AM-Our last day! I am sad to go, but content with our trip. Just a few more things to do today.

525 PM - Howdy all! I can't believe it has been 8 days already! We had a great last day and are back at the Pop waiting on the ME bus. The girls had a GREAT time! The trip met and exceeded my lofty expectations. There were still some ups and downs as you shall soon see, but Big Picture, it could not have been any better. Until next time, this is GB signing off from WDW. Have a Magical Day!

Coming up on Episode 48 - Biscuit's Return to Paradise!

Click here for the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32493526&postcount=641)

[joleen76]

Whoo hoo your there!! Have a blast and am loving the live updates!

[GreatBiscuit]

Whoo hoo your there!! Have a blast and am loving the live updates!

Thanks!

[jordanyosh]

FRI-1230AM - Thanks for all the well wishes...my phone doesn't support multi quote so I will reply later. We made it to Houston safe and sound and are just a few short hours from departure. I already have some great material for the TR, not the least of which was having the car next to us catch fire at a red light on our way out of town...well I only have about three and a half hours left to try to sleep. I'll see ya real soon!

FRI - 1015AM - Waiting in Magical Express Line...Not overly crowded.

3 PM - we LOVE the Pop Century. Just got the girls up from a MUCH needed nap and preparing to head to MK and Chef Mickeys!

735 PM - we have just begun dessert at Chef Mickeys and I gotta say I am diggin' this joint.

Nice live update...I love Pop too. Don't miss out on taking a stroll along Hourglass Lake.

[Backstage_Gal]

I thought about you guys today.
Glad you made it safe and sound.
Loving the live updates, at least you got no rain today. But forecast for Sunday is for 98 degrees. EEEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It hardly ever gets that hot even in July and August!
Stay near the poo and go at night and early mornings
l!

[chicagoshannon]

Love it! Sounds like you're having a great time!

[Disneymom3304]

So happy you are having a great time at POP and Chef Mickey's! Here's hoping each day is better than the last:goodvibes

[PrincessV]

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::b anana::banana:

Yay for live updates! Glad you're all having a great time!

[GreatBiscuit]

Have a wonderful trip. If you see a really jiggly jiggler, call my name! :cool1:Will Do!



TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yay: HAVE A FANTASTIC TRIP!!!

:dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:We had corn dog bites last night in your honor!



Nice live update...I love Pop too. Don't miss out on taking a stroll along Hourglass Lake. Already took one!

I thought about you guys today.
Glad you made it safe and sound.
Loving the live updates, at least you got no rain today. But forecast for Sunday is for 98 degrees. EEEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It hardly ever gets that hot even in July and August!
Stay near the poo and go at night and early mornings
l!
Thanks BSG! We'll keep the misters blowing!

Love it! Sounds like you're having a great time!Thanks! We def are!

So happy you are having a great time at POP and Chef Mickey's! Here's hoping each day is better than the last:goodvibesTHANKS!

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::b anana::banana:

Yay for live updates! Glad you're all having a great time!Thanks V!

[jcc0621]

Love the live updates.:cool1:

[AshClan]

WooHoo!!! I am loving the live updates!! Sounds like you are collecting LOTS of material for us!!:thumbsup2

Heard about the heat wave. Hope you can all stay as cool as possible!

Enjoy O'hana. YUM!!!!!

Oh, and HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[All7OfUs]

Happy Father's day Oh Great One who gives live updates!!! WOW!! So cool!

too bad for the crazy hot weather, hope it's not sucking the very life out of you too badly!

keep it comin'!

Liesa

[GreatBiscuit]

I belive I have found a way to multi-quote through some repetative cut and pasting.

Love the live updates.:cool1:Thanks!

WooHoo!!! I am loving the live updates!! Sounds like you are collecting LOTS of material for us!!:thumbsup2

Heard about the heat wave. Hope you can all stay as cool as possible!

Enjoy O'hana. YUM!!!!!

Oh, and HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Thanks AC! O'Hana was fantabulous.

Happy Father's day Oh Great One who gives live updates!!! WOW!! So cool!

too bad for the crazy hot weather, hope it's not sucking the very life out of you too badly!

keep it comin'!

LiesaThe heat has def been rough, but we are making the most of it. Thanks for reading along!

[PrincessV]

Sunday1245 PM - It's a scorcher today!
Oh my heck - I was out grocery shopping around 11am yesterday and it was an inferno out there! So glad you got into some AC. :faint: Are you getting any rain inland? I've seen none for days over here on the west coast of FL. :sad2:
If heaven serves dessert, it is going to be O'hana bread pudding. I am not normally a sweet eater, but holy Frick-Fracking Gibblets Batman!
Hooray! I was hoping they got it right for you guys! :thumbsup2
Goodbye Plan 3.0! It was fun while it lasted.
:scared1:popcorn::

[MrsSpratt]

Yay, Biscuit!

I was wondering what I would do while you were IN the world, as I've enjoyed your PTR so very much - thanks for the updates that have your readers waiting to hear all the details!

Hope the little biscuits realize how much their Dad has put into this whole shebang.....but I bet they do!

[KittyKat08]

Hey, sorry I have not posted in awhile. I'm glad to hear that you guys are having a great time, minus the heat of course. Love, love, love your little updates that you keep giving us.

Hope your trip keeps getting better and better, here's sending lots of pixie dust your way. pixiedust:

[bedillamouse]

I am LOVING the mini updates!!! what an awesome idea! Glad to hear you guys are having fun and not melting completely. I'm in the midwest and it's obnoxiously HOTTTT! I can't even imagine what you guys are going through!
Can't wait to read the TR!!!

HAVE FUN!!!!

[GreatBiscuit]

Yay, Biscuit!

I was wondering what I would do while you were IN the world, as I've enjoyed your PTR so very much - thanks for the updates that have your readers waiting to hear all the details!

Hope the little biscuits realize how much their Dad has put into this whole shebang.....but I bet they do!

Oh my heck - I was out grocery shopping around 11am yesterday and it was an inferno out there! So glad you got into some AC. :faint: Are you getting any rain inland? I've seen none for days over here on the west coast of FL. :sad2:

Hooray! I was hoping they got it right for you guys! :thumbsup2

:scared1:popcorn::

Hey, sorry I have not posted in awhile. I'm glad to hear that you guys are having a great time, minus the heat of course. Love, love, love your little updates that you keep giving us.

Hope your trip keeps getting better and better, here's sending lots of pixie dust your way. pixiedust:

I am LOVING the mini updates!!! what an awesome idea! Glad to hear you guys are having fun and not melting completely. I'm in the midwest and it's obnoxiously HOTTTT! I can't even imagine what you guys are going through!
Can't wait to read the TR!!!

HAVE FUN!!!!

Thanks everyone! More to come.

[brookelizabeth]

GREAT live updates!!! :banana: It really sounds like a very magical trip you are having!

Isn't Ohana's bread pudding amazing?!?!?!? I do believe it was the culprit in my Great Ohana Debcale of 2008 back in November though. :sad2: (so worth it!)


We had corn dog bites last night in your honor!


:woohoo: I feel so honored!! I hope you liked 'em. :goodvibes

I hope the rest of your trip is excellent-update if you can, but if not-DON'T WORRY 'BOUT IT! ENJOY!!!! :yay:

[GreatBiscuit]

GREAT live updates!!! :banana: It really sounds like a very magical trip you are having!

Isn't Ohana's bread pudding amazing?!?!?!? I do believe it was the culprit in my Great Ohana Debcale of 2008 back in November though. :sad2: (so worth it!)



:woohoo: I feel so honored!! I hope you liked 'em. :goodvibes

I hope the rest of your trip is excellent-update if you can, but if not-DON'T WORRY 'BOUT IT! ENJOY!!!! :yay:

Thanks BE! There has def been a heap of Magic on this particular journey.

[AshClan]

I am still GIDDY for the Biscuits!:banana: The live updates are FABULOUS, and make us all feel like we're right there with you.

This is gonna be an AWESOME Trippie when you get back! I can feel it!!

[GreatBiscuit]

I am still GIDDY for the Biscuits!:banana: The live updates are FABULOUS, and make us all feel like we're right there with you.

This is gonna be an AWESOME Trippie when you get back! I can feel it!!

Thanks AC! It has been an awesome trip so far! Meeting and exceeding expectations!

[brookelizabeth]

Thanks BE! There has def been a heap of Magic on this particular journey.

That is so good to hear!! I can't wait to read all about it. :banana:

[chicagoshannon]

I can not WAIT to read this report. Sounds like you're having a fabulous time!

[MrsSpratt]

Oh, BOY!

Biscuit, I cna't wait to hear all about it - glad it went well!

Best,

Mrs. Spratt

[jordanyosh]

Cant wait for the TR....glad you're having fun...

[GreatBiscuit]

That is so good to hear!! I can't wait to read all about it. :banana:Thanks! I will be getting started very soon!

I can not WAIT to read this report. Sounds like you're having a fabulous time!We had an AWESOME time! Can't wait to start the TR!

Oh, BOY!

Biscuit, I cna't wait to hear all about it - glad it went well!

Best,

Mrs. SprattThanks! I see your counter is on 1 day! Have fun!

Cant wait for the TR....glad you're having fun...Thanks Jordan! I'll be posting soon!

[AshClan]

Welcome Home, GB! As I'm sure you know, we are all anxiously awaiting the deets. Can't wait to hear about all the ups and downs, and hoping it was more of the former than the latter.

How's the unpacking and vacation laundry coming?:rotfl2:

[GreatBiscuit]

Welcome Home, GB! As I'm sure you know, we are all anxiously awaiting the deets. Can't wait to hear about all the ups and downs, and hoping it was more of the former than the latter.

How's the unpacking and vacation laundry coming?:rotfl2:

Thanks AC! We actually JUST got home. I believe the title for my final chapter will be "What do you mean by 'Indefinitely delayed'?".

[Backstage_Gal]

Thanks AC! We actually JUST got home. I believe the title for my final chapter will be "What do you mean by 'Indefinitely delayed'?".

Yikes, that doesn't sound good. Where is he nail biting smiley?

[brookelizabeth]

Thanks AC! We actually JUST got home. I believe the title for my final chapter will be "What do you mean by 'Indefinitely delayed'?".


Ooooh, Oooh! I know, I know! <waves hand furiously>

It means you will have to change the first leg of your flight to another plane a few gates down that has a layover in a different city than your original flight did. Then, when you get to that new layover city you will be directed down a random hallway and through a weird door to an elevator where a shoeless woman in a golf cart awaits you. This is your bus driver. Your shoeless bus driver will drive you CLEAR across the airport while planes are taking off and landing all around you (and reminder, you are the only non-airport employees on the bus). Then you will be dropped off at another airline for your flight home.

Upon arriving at home, your luggage does not come down the chute. You approach the little desk they have for lost luggage and tell your sob story.

The kind men have zero clue where your bags are but are confident they should show up tonight or early tomorrow.

3 days later, a couple discussions with UPS, and an arguement with a very rude woman at the airlines, you have your bags.


Sigh. I'm sorry GB, I hope it was at least somewhat better than our experience with those doomed words. :sad2:

And hopefully it was the worst thing that happened the entire trip, I can't wait to read all about it!! :woohoo: And of course, are you planning a return already? ;)

[Backstage_Gal]

Ooooh, Oooh! I know, I know! <waves hand furiously>

It means you will have to change the first leg of your flight to another plane a few gates down that has a layover in a different city than your original flight did. Then, when you get to that new layover city you will be directed down a random hallway and through a weird door to an elevator where a shoeless woman in a golf cart awaits you. This is your bus driver. Your shoeless bus driver will drive you CLEAR across the airport while planes are taking off and landing all around you (and reminder, you are the only non-airport employees on the bus). Then you will be dropped off at another airline for your flight home.

Upon arriving at home, your luggage does not come down the chute. You approach the little desk they have for lost luggage and tell your sob story.

The kind men have zero clue where your bags are but are confident they should show up tonight or early tomorrow.

3 days later, a couple discussions with UPS, and an arguement with a very rude woman at the airlines, you have your bags.




Yikes, BrookeElizabeth, that sounds like a nightmare from hell (or is that redundant?).

Joining you in the waiting for the GB trippie popcorn::

[brookelizabeth]

Yikes, BrookeElizabeth, that sounds like a nightmare from hell (or is that redundant?).

Joining you in the waiting for the GB trippie popcorn::

:laughing: Ya...it was NOT fun, esp with a little one. Our dinner that night was a peanut butter cookie (from Main Street Bakery) and Cracker Jacks (from Caseys) that I happened to carry on. We were orginally booked Continental, so we would have gotten dinner served on the plane!

I was very grateful to have that bit of food, as was my DH and DS. We were so thankful to finally land back home, after dealing with the lost luggage we hit a Burger King drive through just before midnight and I don't think any of us have ever shoveled food into our mouths any faster! :laughing:

It was an ORDEAL. :sad2: Needless to say, we are very willing to pay extra now for direct flights! :thumbsup2

(sorry for the hijack GB...! I hope you update soon!)

[PrincessV]

"What do you mean by 'Indefinitely delayed'?".

:scared1::scared1::scared1:

[GreatBiscuit]

Yikes, that doesn't sound good. Where is he nail biting smiley? It was definitely an experience!

Ooooh, Oooh! I know, I know! <waves hand furiously>

It means you will have to change the first leg of your flight to another plane a few gates down that has a layover in a different city than your original flight did. Then, when you get to that new layover city you will be directed down a random hallway and through a weird door to an elevator where a shoeless woman in a golf cart awaits you. This is your bus driver. Your shoeless bus driver will drive you CLEAR across the airport while planes are taking off and landing all around you (and reminder, you are the only non-airport employees on the bus). Then you will be dropped off at another airline for your flight home.

Upon arriving at home, your luggage does not come down the chute. You approach the little desk they have for lost luggage and tell your sob story.

The kind men have zero clue where your bags are but are confident they should show up tonight or early tomorrow.

3 days later, a couple discussions with UPS, and an arguement with a very rude woman at the airlines, you have your bags.


Sigh. I'm sorry GB, I hope it was at least somewhat better than our experience with those doomed words. :sad2:

And hopefully it was the worst thing that happened the entire trip, I can't wait to read all about it!! :woohoo: And of course, are you planning a return already? ;)HOLY FREAKING COW! :eek: It was certain not THAT bad! Sorry to hear about your fiasco!

Yikes, BrookeElizabeth, that sounds like a nightmare from hell (or is that redundant?).

Joining you in the waiting for the GB trippie popcorn::I'm with you. That made our delay look like cake walk.

:laughing: Ya...it was NOT fun, esp with a little one. Our dinner that night was a peanut butter cookie (from Main Street Bakery) and Cracker Jacks (from Caseys) that I happened to carry on. We were orginally booked Continental, so we would have gotten dinner served on the plane!

I was very grateful to have that bit of food, as was my DH and DS. We were so thankful to finally land back home, after dealing with the lost luggage we hit a Burger King drive through just before midnight and I don't think any of us have ever shoveled food into our mouths any faster! :laughing:

It was an ORDEAL. :sad2: Needless to say, we are very willing to pay extra now for direct flights! :thumbsup2

(sorry for the hijack GB...! I hope you update soon!)Hijack away! I'm with you on the direct flight thing.

:scared1::scared1::scared1: It's all good. At least it didn't happen on the way TO Florida. I might have had an "incident".

[AshClan]

It's all good. At least it didn't happen on the way TO Florida. I might have had an "incident".

This is SO true. Delays on the way home are an inconvenience. Delays on the way down are DISASTERS!!!;)

I'm sure you're busy as all get out with re-entry (Awww, dontcha just HATE re-entry?!), but we'll be patient and take a chapter whenever you get the chance!! popcorn::

[MrsSpratt]

I am very happy to hear you and yours are home safe!

Alas, I am not ON the trip my ticker refers to, but I am reporting it as live as I can, so please, drop on by to help with re-entry - especially since you are one of my inspirations for doing the report!

Welcome home!

Mrs. Spratt

[GreatBiscuit]

This is SO true. Delays on the way home are an inconvenience. Delays on the way down are DISASTERS!!!;)

I'm sure you're busy as all get out with re-entry (Awww, dontcha just HATE re-entry?!), but we'll be patient and take a chapter whenever you get the chance!! popcorn:: Re-Entry is a bummer. 1200 emails waiting. :headache: Hoping to update tonight though.

I am very happy to hear you and yours are home safe!

Alas, I am not ON the trip my ticker refers to, but I am reporting it as live as I can, so please, drop on by to help with re-entry - especially since you are one of my inspirations for doing the report!

Welcome home!

Mrs. SprattThanks! Can't wait to read along!

[GreatBiscuit]

Greetings friends! Six months and four dozen episodes ago, I shared with you a dream to return to that place we all know and love. I am happy to report that this trip was all that I had hoped it would be and more.

Let’s begin by reintroducing the cast shall we?

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1151.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

From left to right, we have First Lady Biscuit, GreatBiscuit, my nephew Preston (6) , DD Hailee (5) , Aunt Janna, DD Tahli (ALMOST 7) , Papa (AKA FatherLoaf) & Nana (AKA MotherLoaf).


Day zero began with some last minute packing and the requisite straightening up of the house. Our original plan was to leave home at 3:30 PM, meet up with my parents at their house, and then head down to Houston, eat at my sister’s house and finally to check into our motel for the night.

I began loading up the car at 3:45, and managed to get our 4 checked suitcases, 4 carry-ons and 1 laptop case all crammed into the trunk & backseat. After everyone did their final duties, it was time to load up. That’s when we noticed Tracy’s cell phone was missing. So I unpacked the car and began digging in suitcases. Then she remembered that she had shaken her purse out over the trash to rid it of some confetti one of the girls had dumped in it. Her phone normally rides in a pocket on the outside, so she thought maybe it had fallen out unobserved. I headed outside and dialed it, then heard it faintly ringing in the big can we roll down to the curb.

By 4:30 I had reloaded the suitcases back into the car and we were off to Kohls. There was something we needed, but I cannot for the life of me remember what it was. Whatever we were looking for, we did not find and so we headed off to my mom’s house. (Correction...FLB tells me it was Wal-Mart which is NEXT to Kohls and we found everything we needed except Silly Putty which we were going to add to the girls travel suitcase.) Normally, this would be a 15 minute journey, but as you know, when it comes to travel, the Biscuit clan is far from normal.

We wound up gridlocked in traffic and at the first red light, I noticed a car in the right hand lane was smoking. The driver jumped out and opened the door, and I saw the smoke was coming from the door itself. The window was down and it was billowing out of the slot the window lowers into. (My guess is the window motor caught fire.) He got back in and pulled the car to the shoulder. Luckily he had a case of water in the car and started dousing the door with it. I wished him well and continued on our journey.

We finally arrived at my parents’ house at six and after another run to the facilities, we loaded up and pulled away at 6:15 PM. The Biscuit clan was finally on the road! Trip 7 had officially begun. WOOHOOO! We knew we couldn’t wait three hours for dinner, so we decided to pinch hit some Burger King at our highway cutoff about 20 miles down the road, but there happened to be a Subway in close proximity and the BK got vetoed.

Sandwiches in hand, we set off cross country on the back roads of Central Texas. Let’s see, there were cows, horses, cows, sorghum, chickens, more cows, three trains, some cows, a dead armadillo, cows, a creek, more horses, and oh yeah, some cows. In short, there were a lot of cows.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/IMG00312.jpg
(Blackberry Curve 8330 internal camera - auto mode.)

Hard to focus on cows and drive at the same time!

The drive also set a precedent that would be repeated throughout our trip. Before I proceed any further, I must point out that I love having two daughters. It’s a wonderful and awesome privilege and I count it a joy every day. That said, may I make an observation? Little girls need to potty at inopportune times. Whether it’s out in the middle of nowhere, or 2 min before a show is about to begin, they have a knack for poor bladder timing. But, what can you do? Not much, but roll with it and seek out the nearest facility.

I snapped this during one of our many RR breaks.
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940024.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 80-300, Apperture Priority Mode, ISO 400, f 3.6, 1/500, Cokin Yellow Filter, )

There was also one other stop that we had to make on the way down. As you may recall from the Season 7 PTR, Aunt Jana recently took a job in Florida. Her house in Texas is still on the market and there were a few things still there that she needed, so we stopped and picked them up for her.

We finally arrived at the motel at 11 PM and lugged all our stuff to the room. By the time everyone was settled in and sleeping it was near 1 AM. I slept lightly at best and seemed to awake every 30 min or so.

Finally at 4 AM, I rolled my eager self into the shower and was soon rearing to go. We called down to the desk at 4;30 to confirm we needed an airport shuttle for 7 at 5:00 AM. We arrived in the lobby at 4:58 and discovered the shuttle had just left. The desk clerk advised we should have called. I advised we did call. She advised they just left with a family of four. I advised that we called and told them we had a group of 7 so it seems odd they would assume the group of 4 was us. She advised it would be 20 minutes. I advised I needed some coffee.

The shuttle eventually returned and we loaded up, but we were now a bit pressed for time. Our driver was nice, but she let us off at the wrong spot.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1040.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

You can't tell they are going on 3 hours sleep!

We then had to swim upstream with a monstrous pile of luggage and three small children.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1041.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

Finally we got to the correct place, checked ourselves in, and headed through security. This was a trip in and of itself. I’m sure if someone would have had a video of us it would win an award somewhere. There was a lot of “put your shoes up here, put that down, don’t touch that, wait for us, don’t go behind there, we’ll potty in a minute” and so on and so forth.

By the time we made it through, it was nearing time to board. Tracy and Nana took the young uns to make use of the facilities. No sooner had they left than the "way too happy for 6 in the morning" gate agent announced it was time to board. I was a bit flustered at that point. After all, why get up at the butt crack of dawn to do online check in the day before to ensure you are in the first boarding group, only to be the last ones on the plane? But alas, the Southwest Agent was over-eager and it was about 10 minutes before we actually started boarding so all was well in the world. We were on the Southwest Shamu plane, but it was too dark for a good photo. If you really feel the urge, just Google it and I’m sure there are many photos to be found.

We wound up in three rows, with Tahli and myself in a row of our own, sitting across from Hailee and Tracy in a row of their own, and Nana, Papa & Preston sitting in front of them.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1044.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1045.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1043.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

Of course this did not last long, and soon all the kids were in the same row watching a video. (I picked up this handy Belkin splitter at Best Buy that lets you run 5 sets of headphones on one jack.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1047.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

The flight lasted two hours, and we were soon gliding over Orlando. The kids all returned to their original seats to watch for Disney World.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1048.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

I watched out the window with Tahli as we circled around to land, and soon, felt the wheels touch the ground.

Though it had taken longer than I had hoped, I was back. Soon we would be getting off the plane and heading to The World. As we were pulling to the gate, Tahli turned from the window, smiled at me and said “I’m so excited!” Me too princess, let’s go have an adventure.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/IMG00318.jpg
(Blackberry Curve 8330 internal camera - auto mode.)

Coming up on Episode 49 – Bring on the Magic!

Click here for the next episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32521121&postcount=661) [/B]

[burly]

Woot am i first?! :cool1:
And so it begins.......YAY:banana:

[brookelizabeth]

IT HAS BEGUN!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot!


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1151.jpg


VERY cute picture of everyone in their matching shirts! :thumbsup2 Your girls are beautiful!


I slept lightly at best and seemed to awake every 30 min or so.

It was the Disney giddiness/nerves, wasn't it? That is exactly how I sleep the night before every trip too! Just too excited to actually sleep!

I laughed out loud at the ordeal getting through security. Getting kids-any age-through is just absurdly nutty. Did you notice at MCO they have "family lines" now for security? MSP has started this too and I LOVE it! Everyone in that line is in the same boat as me, so I don't feel bad with my 8282920 bags and sending the stroller through security, and the shoes and the sippies, etc! :thumbsup2


Score on the 5 way splitter! We have a 2 way and use it all the time. Gotta look for a bigger one now that we have a child...and thankfully a Best Buy is about to open in our tiny little town! :woohoo:


Tahli turned from the window, smiled at me and said “I’m so excited!” Me too princess, let’s go have an adventure.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/IMG00318.jpg


Let's hear it now...a collective "AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!" :goodvibes

*my fonts went all crazy in this reply and that bothers me, but I'm too tired to adjust. :)

[MrsSpratt]

Dear Great Biscuit -

Your family is beautiful. On the plane and on the way! Can't wait for more...

Mrs. Spratt

[GreatBiscuit]

Woot am i first?! :cool1:
And so it begins.......YAY:banana:Way to go Burly! Glad to have you along for the next chapter of the tale! I only hope you read it AFTER I fixed all the typos!

IT HAS BEGUN!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot!



VERY cute picture of everyone in their matching shirts! :thumbsup2 Your girls are beautiful!Thanks!



It was the Disney giddiness/nerves, wasn't it? That is exactly how I sleep the night before every trip too! Just too excited to actually sleep!Yep!



I laughed out loud at the ordeal getting through security. Getting kids-any age-through is just absurdly nutty. Did you notice at MCO they have "family lines" now for security? MSP has started this too and I LOVE it! Everyone in that line is in the same boat as me, so I don't feel bad with my 8282920 bags and sending the stroller through security, and the shoes and the sippies, etc! :thumbsup2Yeah, we got to do the family line. Gotta love that!


Score on the 5 way splitter! We have a 2 way and use it all the time. Gotta look for a bigger one now that we have a child...and thankfully a Best Buy is about to open in our tiny little town! :woohoo: It came in VERY handy.

Dear Great Biscuit -

Your family is beautiful. On the plane and on the way! Can't wait for more...

Mrs. SprattThanks! More to come soon!

[All7OfUs]

Okay.... this is way to freakin' exciting! The GB Clan is ready for an adventure, and in perfect GB-style, they have one before they even get there. Sounds like our clan going from continent to continent with 5 in tow.

Isn't that sweet?? "I'm so excited, Dad!" That's so exactly what you wanted to hear, and you weren't let down! Too. Cool!

Still with you, GB. You're off to a super start.

BTW, just put up a few more updates on ours, filling you all in from our Nashville meet. Come on over and enjoy!

[DisneyMomLiz]

Greetings friends! Six months and four dozen episodes ago, I shared with you a dream to return to that place we all know and love. I am happy to report that this trip was all that I had hoped it would be and more.

Let’s begin by reintroducing the cast shall we?

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1151.jpg



Yay, glad you are all back home safely...loving the TR already!! What a lovely family :) Love the shirts...may have to bug you for the design templates later :rotfl:

Glad it was a great one!! Can't wait to hear/read the rest of the adventures of the Biscuit Clan! popcorn::

[Normangirls]

As we were pulling to the gate, Tahli turned from the window, smiled at me and said “I’m so excited!” Me too princess, let’s go have an adventure.


You see, it's things like that that make me tear up a little. And that's what it's all about, isn't it?

Welcome home, GB!

[chicagoshannon]

Welcome home! Looks like your trip is off to a good start.

[AshClan]

:thumbsup2

Thanks for all the pictures!! Yes, you have a beautiful family, and your girls are precious. Love all the chaos (I know, it wasn't as fun as it sounded) and the "so excited" line from Tahli. Can't wait for more!!

[PrincessV]

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1151.jpg
How adorable are you all?! Pretty darned. :goodvibes

Let’s see, there were cows, horses, cows, sorghum, chickens, more cows, three trains, some cows, a dead armadillo, cows, a creek, more horses, and oh yeah, some cows. In short, there were a lot of cows.
Hmmm. Not far off from Central Florida! :rotfl:

That said, may I make an observation? Little girls need to potty at inopportune times. Whether it’s out in the middle of nowhere, or 2 min before a show is about to begin, they have a knack for poor bladder timing.
::yes:: Big girls, too. ;)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1048.jpg
I love this shot - it says so much in a quiet way! :goodvibes

As we were pulling to the gate, Tahli turned from the window, smiled at me and said “I’m so excited!” Me too princess, let’s go have an adventure.
:yay::yay::yay:

[Kimberly815]

Yippee! It's started!

I am just happy that it wasn't your car that set on fire!

Bring on the Disney fun!

[GreatBiscuit]

Yay, glad you are all back home safely...loving the TR already!! What a lovely family :) Love the shirts...may have to bug you for the design templates later :rotfl:

Glad it was a great one!! Can't wait to hear/read the rest of the adventures of the Biscuit Clan! popcorn::Thanks! I designed the logo in MS Power Point using the Draw / WordArt tools. I'll send it to you if you like. The logo is the same one in my signature.

You see, it's things like that that make me tear up a little. And that's what it's all about, isn't it?

Welcome home, GB!That's def what it's all about!

Welcome home! Looks like your trip is off to a good start.Thanks! It only gets better!

:thumbsup2

Thanks for all the pictures!! Yes, you have a beautiful family, and your girls are precious. Love all the chaos (I know, it wasn't as fun as it sounded) and the "so excited" line from Tahli. Can't wait for more!!Thanks AC! It wouldn't be a proper Biscuit journey were it not for a little chaos.

How adorable are you all?! Pretty darned. :goodvibesAwww, Thanks!


::yes:: Big girls, too. ;):lmao:

I love this shot - it says so much in a quiet way! :goodvibesThat one was actually taken by Nana! Which reminds me...I meant to tag the photos with technical mumbo-jumbo. Have to go back and edit.


Yippee! It's started!

I am just happy that it wasn't your car that set on fire!

Bring on the Disney fun!You and me both!

[DisneyMomLiz]

Thanks! I designed the logo in MS Power Point using the Draw / WordArt tools. I'll send it to you if you like. The logo is the same one in my signature.

:worship: Thanks, that would be great!! Feel free to PM me and I'll send you my email, etc. :goodvibes

[joleen76]

Yay your back and you had a blast! Can't wait to hear all about it!!

[GreatBiscuit]

:worship: Thanks, that would be great!! Feel free to PM me and I'll send you my email, etc. :goodvibesJust PM'd you!

Yay your back and you had a blast! Can't wait to hear all about it!!Thanks! I can't wait to share some of the wild things that happened along the way!

[All7OfUs]

So glad you're back! I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how the GB Clan tore up the World! Hopefully none of that nonsense that ensued on your honeymoon happened!

I love your shirts, BTW! What a sweet looking family you have.

[GreatBiscuit]

So glad you're back! I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how the GB Clan tore up the World! Hopefully none of that nonsense that ensued on your honeymoon happened!

I love your shirts, BTW! What a sweet looking family you have.Thanks! Believe me, it was NOTHING like out honeymoon! :woohoo: Going to be posting more soon!

[KittyKat08]

So far so great! I can't wait to hear all about the trip and the Biscuit family adventures I'm sure that you had. :thumbsup2

[GreatBiscuit]

So far so great! I can't wait to hear all about the trip and the Biscuit family adventures I'm sure that you had. :thumbsup2

Thanks! I was just getting ready to post an update when I saw your post. Hope you guys are doing well out in Cali! (At leat I THINK I remember you guys being in Cali and DH working at Universal....two weeks away from the DIS and your mind goes a little blank!)

EDITED _ Nevermind _ I saw your Avatar Tag - Cali it is. (See I knew I wasn't completely wonky!)

[GreatBiscuit]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, shuttles were delayed, pit stops were made, and we finally arrived at Orlando International.

I closed the previous episode with a shared excitement between myself and Tahli over our arrival in Orlando. Though I was excited to get to The World, I was even more excited for the girls. As I mentioned in the Pre-Trip, this past year of working nights has been hard on all of us. It has been especially difficult for Tahli. I wanted this trip to be a special time for her and for us as a family. When we landed, as she watched the ground below, I watched her. The wonder and excitement in her eyes was more precious to me than the trip itself.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940021.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Aperture Priority Mode, f3.5, 1/750, ISO 400)

Once we landed, the clan looked to me to navigate us successfully to the Magical Express counter, but not until we had a quick potty break. Once all minds and other relevant parts were clear, it was time to sally forth. Luckily I had spent some time on the DIS transportation board and the Orlando International Airport website so I had a handy dandy map & directions all printed out and added to my “plan” folder. The directions on the DIS were spot-on. We headed to the monorail and were soon whisking towards the main concourse.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940020.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Auto Mode, f11, 1/250, ISO 400)

I was shocked on our way through by just how long the security lines were. It was a MADHOUSE! Deep down, I was sad to know that it would soon be us, but I pushed those thoughts aside and quickly rallied up a war cry. (Sorry about that if you were behind me…those darned continental breakfasts you know.)

I snaked us through Level Three like I actually knew where I was going, and in short order, we discovered the elevators to Level One, Side B. (Much to the relief of Tahli I might add, who was NOT feeling the love on riding the escalator.) Once we reached the first floor, it was just a quick jog to the left to reach the Magical Express check in desk.

Now at this point, I was a bit nervous. I have a slight confession to make in that I was not fully prepared for Magical Express check in. I had called Central Reservations several times over the course of the previous months, confirming reservation numbers, dates, what have you. I had even called to verify they had our flight info. But for some reason, I never got the Magical Express welcome packet. You know, the one with the handy yellow tags? And since I didn’t think to venture over to the Transportation Board until 3 days prior to our trip, I had no clue that there even was such a creature as a Magical Express Yellow Tag until the very last minute.

I flew into full on panic mode and called the Magical Express number (which I learned from the Transportation Board is NOT the same as Central Reservations) and was assured by the Cast Member who answered that all would be well with the world. I was instructed to simply bring our baggage claim tickets to the counter and they would handle the rest. Whew. That’s a relief…sort of…but I was still a bit worried about it.

There was no line at the desk and we were soon checked in by a friendly CM from Philadelphia. (Sorry, I forgot to record his name….SHAME I know…I’ll put myself in timeout later.) I remember he was from Philly because he was an Eagles fan and commented on my Dallas Cowboys shirt. I gave him my claim tickets, he said “No problem Mr. Biscuit” and after some authoritative key clicking, he smiled and wished me a magical day. We then headed down the red carpet and presented our Magcial Express boarding pass. The CM there was from New York, and wanted to know why the Cowboys had to send “TO” to Buffalo. (I couldn’t tell you but I have to say, I wasn’t crying when he left.)

We were directed to the proper lane and got in line. I did a quick update on my live report, reminded the kids not to play with the ropes, and within 20 minutes, we were being led out to our bus. We wound up with a Disney Cruise Lines bus, which I first thought was kind of cool until I realized the port hole window treatments made it impossible to get a good shot of the Disney World gate. DOH!


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1049.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713, Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1050.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713, Auto Mode)

The promo video playing helped pass the time quickly and we were soon cruising up the drive to the Pop. (Get it, cruising, DCL Bus….never mind.) I was seated on the right hand side and I remember first glimpsing the top of one of the bowling pins through the window. The feeling was a bit surreal. I was ACTUALLY getting ready to check in for my first ever stay on property! How cool is that?

It’s strange how even when you have seen countless photos of place, it is always a little bit different when you actually see it in person.

Before I proceed any further, I should offer up a word about photos. I took a lot of “scenery photos” that by themselves seemed odd, but I took them with a greater purpose in mind, namely panoramics. Using Windows Live Photo, you can stitch multiple pictures together to create one large picture, and you will find several scattered about this TR. The only weird thing about it is that sometimes foreground elements are removed or blended, resulting in ghost images. So if you encounter a few odd spooks, never fear. The Haunted Mansion still contains all 999 Happy Haunts. (NoMel) We now resume our regularly scheduled programming.

When Magical Express drops you off, you enter on the right hand end of the main building. As you walk in, the check in/out desk is to your left, the TV room is immediately to your right, and at the end of the long hallway is Everything Pop. (Gift Shop & Food Court.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/PopLobby.jpg
(Composited from 8 photos, taken our first day later that afternoon, Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

See what happens when stay in the parks too long? Your legs rebel and detach themselves for a rest at your resort!

Papa and I entered the check in line to handle the particulars, while Tracy and Nana took the kids to the TV room.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/PopTVRoom.jpg
(Composited from 15 photos, taken during checkout on our last day, Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

After about 10 minutes of waiting, we spoke with the first CM at the rolling laptop podium. He was working his way down the line to ensure no one was waiting unnecessarily to checkout. He was from a town very near my hometown, and used to work at one of our local TV stations. Queue the music “It’s a world of laughter, a world of cheer….” A few minutes later and we were checking in with Tyng from Singapore. She was an awesome CM and was all smiles. She found us two rooms next to each other in Building 5, third floor, just above the kiddie pool. Best of all, they were ready now! DOUBLE SCORE!

We collected the rest of crew and headed in the general direction of our rooms. At the end of the lobby in the Pop Century, there is a cross hallway. (Think of the main lobby as a capital T turned sideways.) When you reach the end, if you turn left, there is a short hallway with a DVC booth, and a room I discovered was used to triage someone when an ambulance is called (no it wasn’t any of us), and at the end of the hallway is a door that leads to the busses. Directly in front of you is Everything Pop. To your right, is another short hallway that contains the Fast Forward Arcade, restrooms & payphones, and at the end a door that leads outside to the heart of the resort.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/EverythingPop.jpg
(Composited from 6 photos, taken later in the afternoon of our first day, Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

Left to the Bus, Right to the Arcade & Hippy Dippy Pool/Rooms


I lead us out door number 2 and in the general direction of Building 5. I was not sure where the elevators were (I was so excited I forgot to ask) so I hauled us up the first set of stairs I came to. We eventually found our way to our rooms and managed to locate the elevators & ice machine in the process. (If you are ever there and need the elevator, they are located in the middle of the buildings behind the giant icons…which in our case was Baloo & Mowgli.)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC01101.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

Our room numbers were 5307 & 5308 and we were located right behind the giant purple dancers.

When we arrived at our rooms, the door to ours was already open and there was a crew inside touching up the paint on one of the walls. We told them we would be next door and stowed our carry on luggage in Nana & Papa’s room. My first impression? Small, but nice, and very clean. The room looked like it was brand new.

We sat around for a couple of minutes to decide on a plan of action. Soon there was a knock at the door and the painters told us they were done and that the walls would be dry in ten minutes. I didn’t want to be a skeptic, but either they were using some miracle paint or he was “exaggerating”. I went ahead and transferred our carry-ons to our room, and took a quick photo before the girls moved in.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00759.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

(If you look closely at the back / right walls, you can see where the paint was touched up. It blended perfectly once it was dry.)

I also needed to make a quick pit stop. (At the airport, I guarded our luggage while the crew handled their business.) And so it was that I was introduced to the infamous Pop Century commodes. I had heard the stories about how you can hear them flushing in other rooms at night. I simply attributed it to thin walls. Then I pulled the handle. Had I not just cleared the deck, I would have had a biological malfunction. I must have jumped a foot. This was a throne which flushed with authority! I half expected to see an artillery shell go flying out the back of the thing. I stood there for a moment in awe. Yet I had to wonder who in their right mind thought it would be a positive thing to install a nuclear powered toilet in a resort. Then I spent a couple of days on the Disney Dining Plan. Suddenly the sheer genius of the design became crystal clear. But that’s getting ahead of myself.

By this time the girls had made it to our room, accompanied by a chorus of “DON’T TOUCH THE WALL!” Which the mostly did not do. (We did notice a tiny smidge of paint on Hailee’s knee a little bit later.) They loved the resort already and couldn’t wait to try out the pool. Unfortunately, their swimsuits were in our regular luggage which we could only hope was on its way from the airport. Would our bags all make it? Would the kids take a nap? We’ll see. But for now, we’re here, the girls are in awe, and Biscuit is euphoric.

Coming up on Episode 50 – A Dining Newbie No-More.

Click here for the next episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32554477&postcount=685)

[MrsSpratt]

GB -

I can't find the post to quote it, but you said something about the amount of bathrooms you get to see when traveling with little girls....

By the time I was 7, the joke in our family was that I could write a guidebook to restrooms across America. By the time I was old enough to "go alone," the family FULLY EXPECTED a report of the decor, quality of ...ammenities, etc. as soon as I returned from my little trip.

Nowadays, I still appreciate a good restroom (don't we all?!?!) but I wish I could write a guide to the best spas across America. :goodvibes

And thanks for the kind words. You are helping me stay on track with my report!

Have a great day (and don't melt!)

Mrs. Spratt

[bedillamouse]

Eekkk I'm late! Two postings so far! I love the legs walking to rest on their own. Mine felt like that several days we were there. Cool pics of the hotel! It will make for awesome memories!

Looking forward to more!
popcorn::

[GreatBiscuit]

GB -

I can't find the post to quote it, but you said something about the amount of bathrooms you get to see when traveling with little girls....

By the time I was 7, the joke in our family was that I could write a guidebook to restrooms across America. By the time I was old enough to "go alone," the family FULLY EXPECTED a report of the decor, quality of ...ammenities, etc. as soon as I returned from my little trip.:lmao:

Nowadays, I still appreciate a good restroom (don't we all?!?!) but I wish I could write a guide to the best spas across America. :goodvibes

And thanks for the kind words. You are helping me stay on track with my report!

Have a great day (and don't melt!)

Mrs. SprattYou too...it's hard to tell what it's like outside in a windowless room full of grey cubicles, but I"m assuming it is quite warm.

Eekkk I'm late! Two postings so far! I love the legs walking to rest on their own. Mine felt like that several days we were there. Cool pics of the hotel! It will make for awesome memories!

Looking forward to more!
popcorn::Welcome back! Glad you liked the pics. I can't wait to get started on the scrapbooks. But I'm going to anyway. Because I like to procrastinate...even when there is no good reason.

[Backstage_Gal]

Fabulous arrival and great pics, GB. Love the blended together ones. So glad I checked tonight, I didn't expect an update till tomorrow.

WooHoo on 3 updates a week! :cool1:

[KittyKat08]

Thanks! I was just getting ready to post an update when I saw your post. Hope you guys are doing well out in Cali! (At leat I THINK I remember you guys being in Cali and DH working at Universal....two weeks away from the DIS and your mind goes a little blank!)

EDITED _ Nevermind _ I saw your Avatar Tag - Cali it is. (See I knew I wasn't completely wonky!)

We are doing very well thanks for asking. Hubby is a bit nuts with work right now being the summer season is on and the park is getting insane. :scared:

Would you believe I'm still trying to finish our honeymoon TR. Pathetic I know. :sad2: I am at least on the second to the last day of our trip, I just need to get my butt in gear and start typing away.

Anyway, fabulous update and I could feel the excitement of being there in your writing. Can't wait for more!

[All7OfUs]

Oh my gosh! That paragraph about the POP toilets was over the top funny! Thanks for my morning chuckles!

Those little smudges of paint don't lie, do they? But hey, a little paint on the pants is so not worth even worrying about when you're at Disney is it?

Great start!

[MKBekka]

Hey, This is an awsome TR!! I really like your writing style. Pop looks like a lot of fun. Not sure if you 'know' me...I am All7OfUs's DD16, and also her most reliable underground worker for her evil plot of taking another Disney trip.

[burly]

Laugh out loud funny GB!:lmao:

[brookelizabeth]

Love the composite pictures - what a neat idea. Is Live Photo a PowerToy or anything like that? I would be interested in playing around with it...

You are hilarious-I was laughing at loud about you commentary on the toliet! :rotfl: :lmao::rotfl2:

When we landed, as she watched the ground below, I watched her. The wonder and excitement in her eyes was more precious to me than the trip itself.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940021.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Aperture Priority Mode, f3.5, 1/750, ISO 400)


This is such a sweet picture.
I was instructed to simply bring our baggage claim tickets to the counter and they would handle the rest. Whew. That’s a relief…sort of…but I was still a bit worried about it

I had NO idea you could do that! Before I commit that tip to memory, I'm going to wait to see how long before your bags show. :rolleyes1


It’s strange how even when you have seen countless photos of place, it is always a little bit different when you actually see it in person.

This is SO true.

[Beka]

Loving the TR so far! Your enthusiasm is making me excited for our trip!

[DisneyMomLiz]

The wonder and excitement in her eyes was more precious to me than the trip itself.

So true. I especially love watching my DS while we're at the world. It makes any issues or stresses just melt away :goodvibes

Fabulous update, as usual :worship: Love the panoramic shots you stitched together. Neat! :woohoo: Now you have me thinking about switching our next stay at ASMu to POP, or maybe we'll just have to go again and stay at POP ;)

PS - thanks again for the LGMH template...having fun making my new LGMH with it!

[MrsSpratt]

GB -

What a fabulous start!

I almost sprayed water all over my monitor with the description of the toilets...

Can't wait for more!

Auntie Spratt

[PrincessV]

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940021.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Aperture Priority Mode, f3.5, 1/750, ISO 400)
Beautiful! :goodvibes

I gave him my claim tickets, he said “No problem Mr. Biscuit” and after some authoritative key clicking, he smiled and wished me a magical day. We then headed down the red carpet and presented our Magcial Express boarding pass.
:scared: This scares me enormously. I'm a control freak when it comes to luggage - I'm the one straining in my window seat, trying to locate my suitcase coming on and going off the plane.

I was ACTUALLY getting ready to check in for my first ever stay on property!
OH, I'd forgotten that! :woohoo:

Using Windows Live Photo, you can stitch multiple pictures together to create one large picture, and you will find several scattered about this TR.
:thumbsup2 Very, very cool!

I had heard the stories about how you can hear them flushing in other rooms at night. I simply attributed it to thin walls. Then I pulled the handle. Had I not just cleared the deck, I would have had a biological malfunction. I must have jumped a foot. This was a throne which flushed with authority! I half expected to see an artillery shell go flying out the back of the thing. I stood there for a moment in awe. Yet I had to wonder who in their right mind thought it would be a positive thing to install a nuclear powered toilet in a resort. Then I spent a couple of days on the Disney Dining Plan. Suddenly the sheer genius of the design became crystal clear.
:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

[Kimberly815]

Excellent pictures! I can't wait to hear more!

[AshClan]

I gave him my claim tickets, he said “No problem Mr. Biscuit” and after some authoritative key clicking, he smiled and wished me a magical day. We then headed down the red carpet and presented our Magcial Express boarding pass.

:scared: This scares me enormously. I'm a control freak when it comes to luggage - I'm the one straining in my window seat, trying to locate my suitcase coming on and going off the plane.


I'm with ya, V. I have severe luggage control/anxiety. My husband rolls his eyes at me all the time over that. One of these days, they're really going to lose my luggage, then I can say "I told ya so" :rotfl2:

They loved the resort already and couldn’t wait to try out the pool. Unfortunately, their swimsuits were in our regular luggage which we could only hope was on its way from the airport.

Oh, c'mon GB. You broke the #1 rule of carry-on preparedness. The swimsuits should ALWAYS be in the carry-ons!!

I'm excited for you all. Can't wait to hear more!! Thanks in advance for your efforts on the frequent update front ;)

[GreatBiscuit]

Fabulous arrival and great pics, GB. Love the blended together ones. So glad I checked tonight, I didn't expect an update till tomorrow.
Hey BSG! Glad you liked the photos!

We are doing very well thanks for asking. Hubby is a bit nuts with work right now being the summer season is on and the park is getting insane. :scared: I hear you! Hurricane season is our busy time due to all the emergency response support we do. I like being busy, but I’m glad when it’s over.

Would you believe I'm still trying to finish our honeymoon TR. Pathetic I know. :sad2: I am at least on the second to the last day of our trip, I just need to get my butt in gear and start typing away. It’s all good! I can’t wait to see how it all turns out. And if you do any more partying with Slash I expect an update!

Oh my gosh! That paragraph about the POP toilets was over the top funny! Thanks for my morning chuckles! Happy to oblige!

Those little smudges of paint don't lie, do they? But hey, a little paint on the pants is so not worth even worrying about when you're at Disney is it?
Fortunately she had on some of those hybrid britches so it was on her knee. I don’t know what you call them…it’s technically not a skort (at least I don’t think it is) it’s a full jean skirt with cloth shorts attached underneath. Whatever they are, the girls own several pairs.

Hey, This is an awsome TR!! I really like your writing style. Pop looks like a lot of fun. Not sure if you 'know' me...I am All7OfUs's DD16, and also her most reliable underground worker for her evil plot of taking another Disney trip.Howdy and :welcome: Glad to have you aboard. I’m all in favor of Disney Trip plotting!

Laugh out loud funny GB!:lmao:Thanks Burly!

Love the composite pictures - what a neat idea. Is Live Photo a PowerToy or anything like that? I would be interested in playing around with it... It was actually a free download from Microsoft. (Shocker I know!) It’s designed for Vista, and is pretty easy to use. To create a panoramic photo, you launch the software, pull up the folder, highlight the pics, right click, and select Create Panoramic Photo. The one drawback is when it comes to cleanup. Once you stitch the photos together, you have to crop out the edges. On larger pics, Windows Live Photo errors out so you have to use a secondary editing app. I used MS Office Photo Manager and it worked like a dream.


You are hilarious-I was laughing at loud about you commentary on the toliet! :rotfl: :lmao::rotfl2: Thanks! A fellow never can tell how toilet commentary will be received.



This is such a sweet picture. So far it’s one of my favs! I still have 18 rolls of film that are yet to be developed.


I had NO idea you could do that! Before I commit that tip to memory, I'm going to wait to see how long before your bags show. :rolleyes1 It actually worked out very well….eventually.




Loving the TR so far! Your enthusiasm is making me excited for our trip!Thanks Beka! I hope you have a FANTASTIC trip!

So true. I especially love watching my DS while we're at the world. It makes any issues or stresses just melt away :goodvibesI was surprised by just how different my focus was when touring with my kids.

Love the panoramic shots you stitched together. Neat! :woohoo: Now you have me thinking about switching our next stay at ASMu to POP, or maybe we'll just have to go again and stay at POP ;) Glad you enjoyed it! I had a ton of fun making the panoramic photos. I haven’t been to the All Star resorts, so I can’t compare them, but we seriously LOVED the Pop Century.


PS - thanks again for the LGMH template...having fun making my new LGMH with it! No Problem! I hope you enjoy!

I almost sprayed water all over my monitor with the description of the toilets... :rotfl: Well, thank goodness you were able to contain it!


This scares me enormously. I'm a control freak when it comes to luggage - I'm the one straining in my window seat, trying to locate my suitcase coming on and going off the plane. Fear not! It all turned out okay! Mostly. The issue we had was minor and had nothing to do yellow tags.

Excellent pictures! I can't wait to hear more!Thanks! I’m happily writing the next episode now.

I'm with ya, V. I have severe luggage control/anxiety. My husband rolls his eyes at me all the time over that. One of these days, they're really going to lose my luggage, then I can say "I told ya so" :rotfl2: :lmao:

Oh, c'mon GB. You broke the #1 rule of carry-on preparedness. The swimsuits should ALWAYS be in the carry-ons!! There was actually some reasoning behind this. I’ll explain it in the next chapter.

I'm excited for you all. Can't wait to hear more!! Thanks in advance for your efforts on the frequent update front No problem!

[Wish_I_Was_At_WDW]

Just recently came upon your trip report and loving every bit of it! I'm so glad you got back to Disney with your family. The panoramic pictures are great and making my teeth ache to be back at Pop! We've stayed there 4 times (I think?) and I feel at "home" there. Last time we were in the Mogli/Baloo building but were on the back side not facing the pool (unfortunately). Great location though! Can't wait to read more!!! :cool1:

[GreatBiscuit]

Just recently came upon your trip report and loving every bit of it! I'm so glad you got back to Disney with your family. The panoramic pictures are great and making my teeth ache to be back at Pop! We've stayed there 4 times (I think?) and I feel at "home" there. Last time we were in the Mogli/Baloo building but were on the back side not facing the pool (unfortunately). Great location though! Can't wait to read more!!! :cool1::welcome: Glad to have you here! The Pop was such a cool resort. I was not prepared for how much I would love this place. We definitely did love the locale, but it WAS as bit noisy at times. Not terrible though, I'd be happy with the same room again!

[stace208]

I haven't gotten through all of it but I love your TR! Your kids are adorable and I love your pictures of Pop. We had the exact same reaction to the toilet at the Poly!!

[GreatBiscuit]

I haven't gotten through all of it but I love your TR! Your kids are adorable and I love your pictures of Pop. We had the exact same reaction to the toilet at the Poly!!:welcome: Thanks for your kind comments. Those toilets were something else! Somehow an ordinary hopper doesn't quite seem the same!

[SunnieRN]

Wow!!! I have no idea how I missed this until now, but I read the whole thing in the wee hours of this morning. I must say I feel a kinship to you, however I grew up in Northern CA and lived there all my life until about three years ago now, so substitute disney world with disneyland (the original magic kingdom bye the way, if you're interested in that piece of trivia), and my early disney history is a lot like yours.
I will say that I went for the first time when I was 8 and have been there numerous (probably about 50-60 times) since then.
You are WAY ahead of me at disney world however!! I only went there for the first time last September.

Loving your disney history and can't wait to read all about your families trip!!!! Your daughters are SO adorable and I bet your Mom and Dad loved seeing everything through your daughters and nephews eyes, I know I LOVED seeing disney world through my grandsons eyes!! Tell your Mom she looks younger now then she looked in the older picture! She didn't fib when she said she looks better now!!

[SunnieRN]

Sorry, I forgot....what part of Texas are you from? I am an hour from Austin. (See that's what happens when old folks stay up all night and then try to type), lol.

[GreatBiscuit]

Sorry, I forgot....what part of Texas are you from? I am an hour from Austin. (See that's what happens when old folks stay up all night and then try to type), lol.We are in the massive metroplex of Cove/Killeen/Heights & Hood.

Wow!!! I have no idea how I missed this until now, but I read the whole thing in the wee hours of this morning. I must say I feel a kinship to you, however I grew up in Northern CA and lived there all my life until about three years ago now, so substitute disney world with disneyland (the original magic kingdom bye the way, if you're interested in that piece of trivia), and my early disney history is a lot like yours.
I will say that I went for the first time when I was 8 and have been there numerous (probably about 50-60 times) since then.
You are WAY ahead of me at disney world however!! I only went there for the first time last September.:welcome: Glad to have you aboard! Always good to have a kindred Dis spirit following along!


Loving your disney history and can't wait to read all about your families trip!!!! Your daughters are SO adorable and I bet your Mom and Dad loved seeing everything through your daughters and nephews eyes, I know I LOVED seeing disney world through my grandsons eyes!! Tell your Mom she looks younger now then she looked in the older picture! She didn't fib when she said she looks better now!!Thanks! It was awesome seeing the world through their eyes. BTW - you made Nana's day!


I'll be updating soon, either later tonight or tomorrow. Been a busy day. First Lady Biscuit's family is coming for a visit so we've been doing the whole "Deep Cleaning" thing today. (Why is it I always work harder on days I have off of work? It just don't seen right!)

[GreatBiscuit]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, Magical Express was located, resorts were checked into, and the joys of power flushing were discovered. It was now nearing noon and we were ready for lunch. Gathering the brood, we descended to the food court and in the process began a debate that would last the ENTIRE trip. “Whose turn is it to press the button on the elevator?” (The girls never wanted to let ME have a turn and it’s not fair.) On the way I snapped several pics of the Hippy Dippy Pool & Sixties area.

From our balcony:
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000005.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Auto Mode, f15, 1/1000, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000006.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Auto Mode, f15, 1/1000, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000007.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, f8, 1/1000, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00853.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

Once we arrived in the food court, we broke rank and fanned out in search of sustenance. I had a general idea of what was offered here, but I still spent quite a bit of time wandering around.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00789.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00787.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

One of my first discoveries was the stack of refillable mugs. I rallied the troops and bespoke the glory of said refreshment receptacle. We then went through the whole, “what color do you want?” thing. Finally, I got the black lid, the girls each got red, and First Lady Biscuit selected yellow.

Having properly secured our mugs, it was time to get to the heart of the matter, namely the entrées. Tahli wanted macaroni and cheese, which came as no shock to us. That kid can smell out Mac N Cheese from a mile a way. Tracy decided on Pizza, Hailee went with the Vegetable Lo Mein, and I elected to try the Shrimp Lo Mein. (I have no idea why I felt compelled to capitalize all the food names, but whatever.)

Triumphant in our quest, we headed to the register to complete our first purchase on the Disney Dining plan. Those of you familiar with this plan know that the counter service credits include an entrée, dessert, and a drink for adults and a kid’s meal and drink for the young ‘uns. The CM looked over our trays and advised us we weren’t done shopping yet. (I have her name on a receipt somewhere, but it’s nearing 3 AM and I am unable to compel myself to go search it out.) We still HAD to select drinks for all 4 meals and dessert for 2. (Even though I was buying refillable mugs, she couldn’t apply them to the meal and thus was unable ring up the meals without us selecting 4 additional drinks.) She pointed us in the direction of the bottled drinks & desserts, and explained that they could stamp our receipt if we wanted a sundae. We then did the dining walk of shame, and went in search of our missing items.

Alrighty then. Let’s see if we can’t try that again. We got the girls each a chocolate milk, and Tracy and I each grabbed a bottle of Lemonade. After carefully perusing the dessert selections, I discovered something that triggered a memory from the Dis Boards. Somewhere, I had heard a review or two speaking to the glorious goodness of Tie-Dyed Cheesecake. I decided to grab a slice and give it a try. Tracy elected to go with a sundae.

We returned triumphant to the same line and this time, our still nameless CM declared that we were good to go. SCORE. I handed her all 4 four our Key to the Kingdom cards, and she advised me that she only needed one. Ohhhhh…right…gotcha. She rang us up and then said “Congratulations! You are now officially a member of the Mickey Dining Club!” WOOOHOOOO! Do I get a hat or something?

The entire process took us a good 20 minutes, mainly because we weren’t quite sure what the process was. But I am happy to report that from that point on, we did pretty well with figuring out the Counter Service options on the dining plan. We found our table and met up with my mom and dad who had tried the Chicken Mediterranean Flatbread and a cheeseburger respectively, and my nephew Preston who had gone with cheese pizza.

Here’s some food porn for you.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00774.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)


I have to say that I was not overly impressed with the Shrimp Lo Mein. It had been flavored with a more than healthy dose of sesame oil. I would not be averse to ordering it again, I would just ask for it without the oil. The other food seemed to be adequate. My mom really enjoyed the flatbread, Tracy said the pizza wasn’t stellar, but wasn’t horrible either.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940005.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 28-80, Shutter PriorityMode, f3.5, 1/60, ISO 400)

But the desserts, well those my friends were a different Kettle O’Fish. First this lovely thing.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00782.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

Now I’m not a HUGE sweet eater, but I do enjoy a nice slice of cheesecake. May I just say my friends that this little jewel was all that and a can of biscuits. It was AWESOMELY good.

Then there was this not so little concoction.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00783.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

When they told us you could get a sundae, I was expecting something like what you get at Dairy Queen. When they handed me this monster bowl of goodness, I was quite surprised. I could not believe how big the thing was. Tracy and the girls dove right in and I may or may not have stolen a taste or four. It too was QUITE tasty.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00784.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

While we were working our way through the line, Tracy and I had decided that as excited as the kids were, we really needed to try to get them to take a nap. They had only slept about 3 hours the night before and we knew that once they were in the park, they would want to stay. We were also worried about Tracy’s foot. On the plane ride down, her foot was hurting right in the arch. Whenever she took a step, she’d get a sharp pain. (NOT the sort of thing you want on your first day at Disney.) She wanted to take some Aleve and a nap to give it a chance to either heal or numb a bit.

With lunch now completed, we returned to our room to put our plan into action. The girls of course protested and wanted to go swimming. I in turn pointed out that we did not yet have our swimsuits. (See the wisdom of my packing?) They both said they were not sleepy and would not take a nap. Tears may have been shed. (But I stopped once Tracy gave me the eye.) Of course once the lights were out, they were literally sleeping in 5 min. Yet, hard as I tried, I could not join them. I was too excited. Once I was confident all three of the ladies were zonked, it was time hit the door. Look out Pop Century! GreatBiscuit is on the loose baby!

Coming up on Episode 51 – Painters, Pools, Pennies, Panoramics and Paramedics.

Click Here for the Next Episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32609063&postcount=715)

[GreatBiscuit]

Accidental Double Post. Nothing to see her. Keep the line moving.

[Mrs. The King]

Biscuit!! I hope you tried that chicken crusted in wonderfulness.. I still have dreams about that bad boy.

You girls are beautiful. You had a nice size clan with you. I love that you were crying about taking a nap. That made me LOL.

That cheesecake made me lick my computer screen.

That little splash park from your beawesome balcony looks new.

Welcome back to the real world my friend. Wasn't Mickey's place divine?

[MrsSpratt]

Another great update!

Sunnie RN - where are you? Mr. Spratt and I are in Htown, and The Bueller Family is in Austin!

Oh GB, any fireworks palns today?

Happy fourth of July! (She says from work....)

[jcc0621]

We still HAD to select drinks for all 4 and dessert for 2.

See I did not know this. That litl ebit of info is being marked into the notebook:thumbsup2

Tie-Dyed Cheesecake.

:cloud9::lovestruc:love:

Chicken Mediterranean Flatbread

I had different flatbreads several times last year. They were yummy!

I have to say that I was not overly impressed with the Shrimp Lo Mein.

Me either. I thought it was very bland.


We were also worried about Tracy’s foot.

Oh no. Hope it was okay!

(But I stopped once Tracy gave me the eye.)

:rotfl2:

Of course once the lights were out, they were literally sleeping in 5 min.

:thumbsup2

GreatBiscuit is on the lose baby!

:scared:

Coming up on Episode 51 – Painters, Pools, Pennies, Panoramics and Paramedics.

popcorn::

[Backstage_Gal]

Loved the excursion to the food court, GB. Very funny update. I love the chicken mediterranian flatbread there too :cloud9:
I worked at POP for 15 months (well, in Finance). I loved to drive over to get the Adult breakfast platter for brunch too.

Sure hope that Tracy's foot got better :eek:

[MKBekka]

Wow, that tie-died cake looks SUPREMELY good, I love to bake, but we can't get the right stuff for that here, :sad1: next time you go, you'll have to eat a piece for me!

[GreatBiscuit]

Biscuit!! I hope you tried that chicken crusted in wonderfulness.. I still have dreams about that bad boy.

You girls are beautiful. You had a nice size clan with you. I love that you were crying about taking a nap. That made me LOL.

That cheesecake made me lick my computer screen.

That little splash park from your beawesome balcony looks new.

Welcome back to the real world my friend. Wasn't Mickey's place divine?WELCOME BACK MTK! I kept an eye out for your guys, but alas, no luck. That cheesecake was definitely scrum-diddly-umptious. The World was all that and more. Now I'm gonna go subscribe to your TR!

Another great update!

Sunnie RN - where are you? Mr. Spratt and I are in Htown, and The Bueller Family is in Austin!

Oh GB, any fireworks palns today?

Happy fourth of July! (She says from work....)We'll only see fireworks if Fort Hood shoots them off.

See I did not know this. That litl ebit of info is being marked into the notebook:thumbsup2:thumbsup2 It'll save you some frustration, that's for sure.

I had different flatbreads several times last year. They were yummy!It certainly looked good. I had a case of "I wish I'd took that!"

Oh no. Hope it was okay!Well...not exactly.

Loved the excursion to the food court, GB. Very funny update. I love the chicken mediterranian flatbread there too :cloud9: Hey BSG. I would definitely go that way next time. It looked mighty fine.

I worked at POP for 15 months (well, in Finance). I loved to drive over to get the Adult breakfast platter for brunch too. How COOL! I kept and eye out for a Marita nametag, but alas never came across one.


Sure hope that Tracy's foot got better :eek:Well, lets just say it makes for an interesting evening.

MKBeka - it shows you posted, but for some reason I can't see it. If it shows up, I'll catch you in a new reply.

[GreatBiscuit]

Wow, that tie-died cake looks SUPREMELY good, I love to bake, but we can't get the right stuff for that here, :sad1: next time you go, you'll have to eat a piece for me! Now I see you! :cool1: It was some awesomly good stuff. I gotta say, I'm not normally a dessert eater, but when we were on Disney Dining, they were all so good, that I ate every single one of them.

[SunnieRN]

We are in the massive metroplex of Cove/Killeen/Heights & Hood.

:welcome: Glad to have you aboard! Always good to have a kindred Dis spirit following along!


Thanks! It was awesome seeing the world through their eyes. BTW - you made Nana's day!

Wow, it really is "A Small World After All"!!! My front yard is in Killeen and my back yard is in Harker Heights and I work at Metroplex!! How is that for a coincidence!! I will be working tonight on the second or 5th floor, so may be able to peek out at the fireworks!;)

Great update!!:goodvibes I hope tears turned to smiles and feet healed too!!! As for making Nana's day, she sounds like the best!!!! Looking forward to more, and I am loving your pictures, WOW!!

Another great update!

Sunnie RN - where are you? Mr. Spratt and I are in Htown, and The Bueller Family is in Austin!

Oh GB, any fireworks palns today?

Happy fourth of July! (She says from work....)

You are the best Aunt!! I am loving your trip report and hope you get to go on their next trip with them!!:goodvibes

[GreatBiscuit]

Wow, it really is "A Small World After All"!!! My front yard is in Killeen and my back yard is in Harker Heights and I work at Metroplex!! How is that for a coincidence!! I will be working tonight on the second or 5th floor, so may be able to peek out at the fireworks!;)

Great update!!:goodvibes I hope tears turned to smiles and feet healed too!!! As for making Nana's day, she sounds like the best!!!! Looking forward to more, and I am loving your pictures, WOW!!
That's cool! I live about a mile from metroplex. The firworks were good, but its hard to compare when you've just come back from Disney!

[brookelizabeth]

It was actually a free download from Microsoft. (Shocker I know!) It’s designed for Vista, and is pretty easy to use. To create a panoramic photo, you launch the software, pull up the folder, highlight the pics, right click, and select Create Panoramic Photo. The one drawback is when it comes to cleanup. Once you stitch the photos together, you have to crop out the edges. On larger pics, Windows Live Photo errors out so you have to use a secondary editing app. I used MS Office Photo Manager and it worked like a dream.

Thanks! A fellow never can tell how toilet commentary will be received.

So far it’s one of my favs! I still have 18 rolls of film that are yet to be developed.

It actually worked out very well….eventually.


Oooh, too bad for me...I'm still an XP user. Is Windows 8 out yet? Once it's out, I might upgrade to Vista. I just don't trust the current OS'. :laughing:

18 more rolls of film! Holy smokes! Are you planning on going digital anytime soon? There is a certain quality to film that digital is completely absent of. I feel you get more emotion from film...

Glad to hear the bags deal worked out...eventually. :scared:

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00774.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00782.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00783.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)



You are going to post these on the Food Pictures thread right?? They are great shots! :thumbsup2

I love the picture of the girls eating too-adorable. :cutie: I hope Tracy's foot gets better... and VERY smart planning on getting the girls to nap!

:rotfl: about you sneaking out while you forced the kids to nap!

[topdog]

Whew!! I finally made it. ;)

I only manage to caught up with the recent trip. I always want one of those Disney toilet for my house. Not sure the plumbing can handle the pressure thought since I don't even have public sewer system.

I dig the panorama shot.

I like to see how the kids got so excited when they get to Disney. They had a glow on their faces. Your are no exception. :thumbsup2

A Nikon N60. Good choice. Maybe I need to dust my FM and bring it out of retirement. Which film did you use? Now that Kodak discontinue Kodakchrome.

[eandesmom]

I'm late to the party, I mean grand adventure, but I'm in!

Love the tie dye cheesecake!

We have 2 of those toilets in our house. If memory serves the slogan at the time we bought them was "you can flush 7 golf balls down without clogging!".

Now. Why one would want to flush 7 golf balls down a toilet I've no idea but given that my youngest once took out our entire system with a glow in the dark eyeball ball (wanting, of course, to see if it would glow "down there"), when we moved I took the new toilets seriously.

I only wish I had more of them. 4 kids, lots of guests...nary a clog. Or at least nary a clog in those SO LOUD THEY SCARE YOU TO DEATH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT and might take you down with them, toilets.

:)

Off to backtrack to your prequel! You have a lovely family.

[GreatBiscuit]

Oooh, too bad for me...I'm still an XP user. Is Windows 8 out yet? Once it's out, I might upgrade to Vista. I just don't trust the current OS'. :laughing:Gotcha! I wound up with Vista when I had to replace my laptop. It's not as bad as I thought it would.


18 more rolls of film! Holy smokes! Are you planning on going digital anytime soon? There is a certain quality to film that digital is completely absent of. I feel you get more emotion from film...Our digital point and shoot is as advanced as I'll be getting for a while. Our home AC unit burned out and we had to replace all 4 tires on Tracy's car the week we left for WDW. :scared1:

You are going to post these on the Food Pictures thread right?? They are great shots! :thumbsup2Probably, once I get them all together for the trip.

:rotfl: about you sneaking out while you forced the kids to nap!There was NO WAY I was going to sleep!

Whew!! I finally made it. ;) Welcome back!

I only manage to caught up with the recent trip. I always want one of those Disney toilet for my house. Not sure the plumbing can handle the pressure thought since I don't even have public sewer system.I hear you. I'd be totally digging one of those!

I dig the panorama shot. Thanks!

I like to see how the kids got so excited when they get to Disney. They had a glow on their faces. Your are no exception. :thumbsup2They were beaming all week!

A Nikon N60. Good choice. Maybe I need to dust my FM and bring it out of retirement. Which film did you use? Now that Kodak discontinue Kodakchrome.The only film I could find was Fuji. One of the stores here was going all digital so they had their 5 roll packs on sale for $2.00.

I'm late to the party, I mean grand adventure, but I'm in!:welcome: Glad to have you aboard!

Love the tie dye cheesecake!It was TOO good!

We have 2 of those toilets in our house. If memory serves the slogan at the time we bought them was "you can flush 7 golf balls down without clogging!".

Now. Why one would want to flush 7 golf balls down a toilet I've no idea but given that my youngest once took out our entire system with a glow in the dark eyeball ball (wanting, of course, to see if it would glow "down there"), when we moved I took the new toilets seriously.

I only wish I had more of them. 4 kids, lots of guests...nary a clog. Or at least nary a clog in those SO LOUD THEY SCARE YOU TO DEATH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT and might take you down with them, toilets.:lmao: :cool1: That is TOO awesome! See, I could never have a toilet that made that claim because I would feel compelled to prove it. It would gnaw at me until I put it to the test.

Off to backtrack to your prequel! You have a lovely family.Thanks!

[MKBekka]

Now that's cool...our toilet is just the opposite. In fact, my DD is replacing our tiolet today because it blew a hole in the back of it. We definitly need a Disney tiolet!

[Normangirls]

She rang us up and then said “Congratulations! You are now officially a member of the Mickey Dining Club!” WOOOHOOOO! Do I get a hat or something?




No, but I hear you can get a button to "celebrate" it.

What will YOU celebrate? Cheesecake, baby!

[AshClan]

Great update, GB.

I'm not a cheesecake girl, but that tie-dyed cheesecake does look, well, interesting!

The girls do look so excited. Big time kudos on getting them to nap. I'm sure that was much appreciated by all later in the day!

Borg on the 4 new tires, by the way. We are going away (NOT to the World) next week, and I've managed to drop about $2,000 on various and sundry things over the past two weeks. Not the best timing, I fear.....:rolleyes:

Keep the fun coming!

[Wish_I_Was_At_WDW]

The cheesecake at Pop is worth a trip in itself! :thumbsup2

Another great update!

[GreatBiscuit]

Now that's cool...our toilet is just the opposite. In fact, my DD is replacing our tiolet today because it blew a hole in the back of it. We definitly need a Disney tiolet!HOLY COW! I'd hate to know what food was comsumed that resulted in a hole being blown out the back of the commode! :scared1: Sounds like a hole in the wall restaurant here in town. Their food is great, but the last time I ate there, I woke up the next morning and farted so hard it scared the dog. :sad2:

No, but I hear you can get a button to "celebrate" it.

What will YOU celebrate? Cheesecake, baby!Now that is a dish worthy of celebration.

Great update, GB.

I'm not a cheesecake girl, but that tie-dyed cheesecake does look, well, interesting! It was definitely scrumptious.

The girls do look so excited. Big time kudos on getting them to nap. I'm sure that was much appreciated by all later in the day!Trust me it came in handy.

Borg on the 4 new tires, by the way. We are going away (NOT to the World) next week, and I've managed to drop about $2,000 on various and sundry things over the past two weeks. Not the best timing, I fear.....:rolleyes:DOH! That stinketh! Gotta hate those types of things. Just makes you shake you head and go "I could have upgraded my resort with that!"

The cheesecake at Pop is worth a trip in itself! :thumbsup2It was definitely a great introduction to Disney Dining.

[eandesmom]

:lmao: :cool1: That is TOO awesome! See, I could never have a toilet that made that claim because I would feel compelled to prove it. It would gnaw at me until I put it to the test.


That's what the 4 kids are for :) After the glow in the dark eyeball ball clog (which required a plumber to go on our ROOF to get it out of the stack....5 hours later) I have no such compulsion.

When we bought it there was one model, and it was pretty basic looking and...LOUD. Now there is a whole line, some of them very pretty. Of course our "pretty" toilet (and yes, there is such a thing) in the powder room is of the "clog if you look at it wrong" variety.

[GreatBiscuit]

That's what the 4 kids are for :) After the glow in the dark eyeball ball clog (which required a plumber to go on our ROOF to get it out of the stack....5 hours later) I have no such compulsion.

When we bought it there was one model, and it was pretty basic looking and...LOUD. Now there is a whole line, some of them very pretty. Of course our "pretty" toilet (and yes, there is such a thing) in the powder room is of the "clog if you look at it wrong" variety.I've made a note...never buy a pretty potty. :lmao:

[MrsSpratt]

You farted so hard you scared the DOG!?!?!?
:rotfl::lmao::rotfl::lmao:

OT: Our family dog when I was growing up had TERRIBLE farts that smelled like Chinese food. Sha-Sha knew her farts were bad, too...if we were in the Suburban, she would go to the way back to fart, then launch herself back to her spot up front with my parents. I didn't eat Chinese until she was gone for SEVERAL years.

Highjack over!

[SunnieRN]

That's cool! I live about a mile from metroplex. The firworks were good, but its hard to compare when you've just come back from Disney!

I read this at work, but can't respond from there. I got to see 1 firework from a patients window, made me think of the GB and his family!! Looking forward to more updates!

[whogirl'smom]

What happy faces to begin a trip! That picture of your daughter at the plane window was just fantastic; you inspired me to finally play around with my (digital) camera's manual settings. I used to have an old Canon from the late sixties/ early seventies that took such great pictures.

Looking forward to more!

[GreatBiscuit]

You farted so hard you scared the DOG!?!?!?
:rotfl::lmao::rotfl::lmao:It was def one for the record books!

OT: Our family dog when I was growing up had TERRIBLE farts that smelled like Chinese food. Sha-Sha knew her farts were bad, too...if we were in the Suburban, she would go to the way back to fart, then launch herself back to her spot up front with my parents. I didn't eat Chinese until she was gone for SEVERAL years.

Highjack over!:lmao:

I read this at work, but can't respond from there. I got to see 1 firework from a patients window, made me think of the GB and his family!! Looking forward to more updates!Nifty!

What happy faces to begin a trip! That picture of your daughter at the plane window was just fantastic; you inspired me to finally play around with my (digital) camera's manual settings. I used to have an old Canon from the late sixties/ early seventies that took such great pictures.

Looking forward to more!Hey WGM! Glad you liked the pics. Def try some new settings. You might be surprised by what you get!


Well everyone, some sad news. I will not be able to honor my newly instated policy of 3 TR's per week. Work is insane right now and my SIL Tammy and her family are here to visit so I have essentially zero spare time. (You'll be happy to note that I am also requiring photo ID before any good morning pats are issued.)

I hope to post tomorrow and then again Friday. Wish me luck!

[SunnieRN]

Lol @ asking for ID in the morning, too funny! Good luck for things slowing down at work!!

[All7OfUs]

Okay, good luck!! I know all too well, how real life can catch up with us. Afterall, it's real life that really counts, so enjoy family! and do well in your job.;)

[DiningPlanDevastator]

Biscuit- I love your trip report. Great photos and great writing.

I stayed at the ASMovies and the toilets were the same loud and "dining plan" efficient. I have had the pleasure of using a more "efficient" toilet in Poland. I don't know if the pressure there is weird or what, but it would suck paint chips off the wall. They could have easily torn off a limb.

Anyway, looking forward to the next update.:thumbsup2

[GreatBiscuit]

Lol @ asking for ID in the morning, too funny! Good luck for things slowing down at work!!A fellow's gotta cover all his bases!

Okay, good luck!! I know all too well, how real life can catch up with us. Afterall, it's real life that really counts, so enjoy family! and do well in your job.;)Thanks! It's slowing down a bit now. It was a crazy morning, but all is well in the world now.

Biscuit- I love your trip report. Great photos and great writing.Thanks and :welcome:

I stayed at the ASMovies and the toilets were the same loud and "dining plan" efficient. I have had the pleasure of using a more "efficient" toilet in Poland. I don't know if the pressure there is weird or what, but it would suck paint chips off the wall. They could have easily torn off a limb.I'm telling you, those were one of the highlights of my trip! :rotfl2:

[GreatBiscuit]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, Dining protocols were established, Tie-Dyed Cheesecake was discovered, and a massive sundae was consumed. Before I progress any further, I must comment on a photographic tragedy. As I was leaving our table to get Tracy’s dessert, the leg of my chair snagged the camera strap on the Nikon and drug it to the ground. The 28-80 lens popped off and went flying. One of the three mounting posts on the back was already gone, and this fall took out a second. (Stinking cheap plastic mounts…but I’m not bitter…I’m moving on.)

ANYHOW, I can still use the lens, but I have to use one hand to hold it tight to the body, otherwise it tends to work its way loose and fall off. SO long story short, this was about the only time the entire trip I used this lens. The rest of the photos I took with this camera were with the 70-300 telezoom. For all of our other pictures, I mostly used our Sony Cybershot digital point & shoot.

Picking up where we last left off, the girls had all just fallen asleep for a nap and there was NO WAY on this celestial ball that I was going to sleep anytime soon. Who cares if I only had 3 hours sleep the night before? This is Disney for crying out loud! I left my cameras in reach when nap time started, and once I was sure everyone was asleep, I slipped out the door to do some exploring.

I knew Nana would not be napping so I sent her a text message and advised her of my quest. I didn’t really have a goal in mind, I just wanted to explore the resort a little bit and take a few photos. My first stop was Generation Gap bridge for the obligatory shot of the Legendary Years buildings.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940001.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

I had heard that others had spotted activity on that side of the lake, but I never saw anything going on the entire time we were there. Within a few minutes, Nana arrived and we set out to do some exploring.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/03940002.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

The painters were out in abundance and were doing touchups over in the fifties sections.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00794.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Sunlight Mode)
“Yo Vinny, you ever paint a bowling pin?” “No man, you?” “Nope.” Look here youse guys, here’s what we gonna do. I’ll go up on the lift and you twos stand underneath and stare at me for a while.” “Okay” “You got it boss.”

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000014.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

Our next stop was the bowling pin pool.
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000018.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000017.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000015.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000020.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

We meandered around a bit, Nana satisfied her curiosity concerning the rack of bowling balls (all real she reported), and we headed back to the main building for some much needed AC. I told Nana to grab some bench and I shot the lobby and the panoramic pics from our Checking In episode.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000013.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Full Auto Mode, ISO 400 / exposure unrecorded)

We meandered a bit through Everything POP and checked out a few of the items up for bid.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00843.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode - Flash Disabled)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/DSC00842.jpg
(Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode - Flash Disabled)

I soon discovered the pressed penny machine and began happily defacing American currency. (I figure if you’re going to ruin a coin, you may as well get something in exchange. As opposed to say lobbing it into “It’s a Small World” where the current erodes the features until Disney eventually collects it all and sells it as scrap metal. Which is not to say that the girls didn’t add a penny or two said scrap metal collection; just that I PREFER to get something in return.) I’m digressing aren’t I.

After browsing the gift shop for a while, we refilled our mugs and prepared to head out in the heat once more. For some odd reason, I found it necessary that we locate the playground. We found it empty and given the heat, I imagine it usually stays that way in the summertime. Within moments we missed the AC decided to wrap up our tour. We headed back towards our room and took in a few more sights along the way.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000010.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, Fstop unrecorded, 1/1000, ISO 400)

If figured with 8 days, I’d have plenty of time to venture over for a gander at the computer pool. We had managed to kill quite a bit of time and headed back to Nana & Papa’s room. I waited a few more minutes before going to wake the girls to ensure they got a full 2 hour nap in.

We were happy to discover that Nana & Papa’s luggage had arrived while we were out touring. I had placed a “Do Not Disturb” sign on our door so I doubted ours was delivered yet.

When I came back into the room, I woke Tahli up first, and asked if she was ready to see the castle. She responded with, and I quote “Can I sleep on the way?” Sure princess, knock yourself out. But, within a few minutes, everyone was up and raring to go. There would be no bus sleeping for this crew! .

I called down to bell services and asked that they bring our suitcases. We quickly got all the kids re-sun screened and I put the finishing touches on my “Park Pack”. Within ten minutes there was a knock at the door and a CM with a cart full of bags brought in one of our suitcases. He then wished us a magical day and was preparing for departure when I inquired as to the location of our remaining three bags. He stared at me a moment and said, oh, there was only one.

Panic began to ensue as I had visions of having to run to the laundry every night at 3 AM to wash our various and sundry unmentionables. He then looked at the tag again on the suitcase and so, “OH, I read this wrong. Sorry about that. I’ll get the rest of them when I finish dropping these bags off.” WHEW! Crisis averted. Maybe.

By this time, we were ready to hit the parks and I decided to leave my luggage fate in the hands of the Pop bell services. I rounded up the herd and headed off to catch a bus to the Magic Kingdom, confident in the hope that our remaining bags would be waiting for us when we returned.

Now one thing I had NOT done on the express tour that afternoon was recon the bus stops. However, Tyng had pointed it out to me on the map at check in and I went with my go-to attitude of “How hard can it be?” Luckily in this case, that particular policy worked out much better than it usually does, and it was actually not that hard at all. We cut through the center of the resort, turned right and there you go: a hand dandy bus stop with nice large signs telling you just where to line up.

We did not have long to wait and before you know it, a Magic Kingdom bus was seen pulling into the Pop. Are you excited everybody? It’s time to go see the castle!

Coming up on Episode 52 – I’m Back Baby!

Click Here for the Next Episode (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32697028&postcount=738)

[Backstage_Gal]

YAY, finally the big day is here! :banana::banana::banana:

[All7OfUs]

So glad the girls got their nap and are (hopefully) recharged and ready to take on the world! I'm also glad you got to have a couple of hours to yourself just exploring and taking photos- which were really good by the way!

I so loved my re-fillable mug! I'll bet you thanked the fountain gods for it many a time, eh?

[SunnieRN]

Woo hoo!! An update!! I hope that means work and real life are going well! How did the ID check go? That's too cool that your wife and sister in law still look alike! A lot of twins don't in adulthood!!
Looking forward to your girls reactions to the castle! (Oh and your nephew also!)

[MKBekka]

awsome update! Exploring is half the fun of staying somewhere. Why did you stop right as you were going into the park? Now no one will be able to sleep!

[brookelizabeth]

Beautiful pictures of Pop! It's such a pretty, bright place, isn't it?

And YAY, you are off to MK!!!!!!!! I can't wait to read your adventures!


Our digital point and shoot is as advanced as I'll be getting for a while. Our home AC unit burned out and we had to replace all 4 tires on Tracy's car the week we left for WDW. :scared1:


Oh man! That is awful! Sorry to hear about those little unexpected "budget busters". :sad2:


That's what the 4 kids are for :) After the glow in the dark eyeball ball clog (which required a plumber to go on our ROOF to get it out of the stack....5 hours later) I have no such compulsion.


I've made a note...never buy a pretty potty. :lmao:

I've made a note...never buy a glow in the dark eyeball!!!!! :scared1: :lmao:

[AshClan]

Great update & pictures, GB. Sorry about your camera lens.

Can't wait to hear about the kids' first walk down Main Street USA!!!!:thumbsup2

[whogirl'smom]

You're almost there! We thought Pop's buses were much more efficient than All Stars and not as packed :crowded:.

[Kimberly815]

Nice Photo tour of the Pop!

Are you excited everybody? It’s time to go see the castle!

You Betcha!! Bring it on!

[burly]

Just read the latest update and all the banter. STill enjoying it. Off to the CASTLE!:cool1:

[Mrs. The King]

Well. GB, it looks like you are breaking in my vacation really well. I bet you were liking it. I'm not bitter. Really, I'm not.

I love that Nana had to check out the bowling balls to see if they were real. That is too stinking cute.
I always thought the playgrounds were just decoration never saw anyone on them before. I wonder if Disney has a fun quotient they have to achieve and they were at 99.9% and needed the empty playgrounds to get to 110%.

I hope you wife's foot stays fully functional throughout your stay. Sorry about your camera lens. 10 interactive Trip Report points if you didn't curse when it dropped.

I missed seeing Goofy in his knickers so much at my resort, I almost stole him from your spalsh park at night.

But All Star Music was fun. Those no name murals painted by THE DEVIL in the food court made me eat less. I didn't miss the sweet, happy bright colors of POP. No I didn't.

[PrincessV]

The 28-80 lens popped off and went flying. One of the three mounting posts on the back was already gone, and this fall took out a second.
Oh no! And that's such a great all-around range, too. :sad2:

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000010.jpg
I love this shot! :thumbsup2

When I came back into the room, I woke Tahli up first, and asked if she was ready to see the castle. She responded with, and I quote “Can I sleep on the way?”
Awww! :goodvibes

He stared at me a moment and said, oh, there was only one.
EEK!! :scared1: I don't know how you were even able to breathe at that point!

Are you excited everybody? It’s time to go see the castle!
Yay!!! :woohoo:

[DiningPlanDevastator]

Well done once again GB. I'm ready for another update

I really enjoy you including the settings of the camera for your pictures.

:banana:

[Sleepingbooty]

:wave:
Just wanted to say hi! I just discovered your TR a few days ago, and I've had such fun reading it! Can't wait for your next update - we were just at Pop in May, so its fun to see your pics, especially the panoramic shots. Wish I'd taken some of those:thumbsup2

[mybestieismickey]

Thanks for such a great trip report. It's really helping my pre trip doldrums (DLR this time). I'm at that point where I can't really research anything else and I can't make any more reservations. So I'm living vicariously through other trip reports.

Thanks for sharing the magic! :wizard:

[GreatBiscuit]

YAY, finally the big day is here! :banana::banana::banana::banana: indeed! That deserves a Woo-Hootily-Hoo!

So glad the girls got their nap and are (hopefully) recharged and ready to take on the world! I'm also glad you got to have a couple of hours to yourself just exploring and taking photos- which were really good by the way!

I so loved my re-fillable mug! I'll bet you thanked the fountain gods for it many a time, eh?The refillable mugs were beyond nifty. I scored anywhere from 2-5 refills every day.

Woo hoo!! An update!! I hope that means work and real life are going well! How did the ID check go? That's too cool that your wife and sister in law still look alike! A lot of twins don't in adulthood!!
Looking forward to your girls reactions to the castle! (Oh and your nephew also!)It’s all good! What’s funny is that when we went places, people thought my oldest and my Sister in Law’s oldest were sisters, and my youngest and her youngest were sisters.

awsome update! Exploring is half the fun of staying somewhere. Why did you stop right as you were going into the park? Now no one will be able to sleep!Sorry! I had to wait on photos! I numbered all my rolls of film when I was taking them so that I could have them processed in order, but apparently I numbered wrong and was missing our MK arrival roll.

Beautiful pictures of Pop! It's such a pretty, bright place, isn't it? Thanks! I LOVE that resort. It was the most unexpected thing of the trip.

And YAY, you are off to MK!!!!!!!! I can't wait to read your adventures! I was on cloud nine pulling up to the MK!



Oh man! That is awful! Sorry to hear about those little unexpected "budget busters". :sad2: It does royally sucketh.


I've made a note...never buy a glow in the dark eyeball!!!!! :scared1: :lmao:Good call!

[GreatBiscuit]

Great update & pictures, GB. Sorry about your camera lens. Thanks! I was temporarily in mourning, but it’s hard be down on Disney day 1.

Can't wait to hear about the kids' first walk down Main Street USA!!!!:thumbsup2 It was exciting!

You're almost there! We thought Pop's buses were much more efficient than All Stars and not as packed :crowded:.We only had to stand twice, and the only time I waited more than 10 min for a bus was at Epcot.

Nice Photo tour of the Pop!Thanks! I had fun and it kept me from going stir crazy.

Just read the latest update and all the banter. STill enjoying it. Off to the CASTLE!:cool1:Thanks! I think that first bus ride to the MK is longest in the WORLD.

Well. GB, it looks like you are breaking in my vacation really well. I bet you were liking it. I'm not bitter. Really, I'm not. Whew! Well, as long as there isn’t any bitterness, it’s all good!

I love that Nana had to check out the bowling balls to see if they were real. That is too stinking cute. I always thought the playgrounds were just decoration never saw anyone on them before. I wonder if Disney has a fun quotient they have to achieve and they were at 99.9% and needed the empty playgrounds to get to 110%. Maybe they get more use in the off season when the parks close early and the heat is not so oppressive.


I hope you wife's foot stays fully functional throughout your stay. Sorry about your camera lens. 10 interactive Trip Report points if you didn't curse when it dropped. Does “SON OF BISCUIT!” count as cursing?

I missed seeing Goofy in his knickers so much at my resort, I almost stole him from your spalsh park at night. That sounds like a Disney movie. The Knickered Goofy Caper starring Mrs. The King.

But All Star Music was fun. Those no name murals painted by THE DEVIL in the food court made me eat less. I didn't miss the sweet, happy bright colors of POP. No I didn't.Well see, there you go. Devil created murals to match the infernal heat of Hades. Silver linings. That’s what I’m talking about.

[GreatBiscuit]

Oh no! And that's such a great all-around range, too. :sad2: I know! It was very sad!

I love this shot! :thumbsup2 Thanks!

EEK!! :scared1: I don't know how you were even able to breathe at that point! I was breathing easier than First Lady Biscuit. But I was all pumped up on Disney at that point in time.


Well done once again GB. I'm ready for another updateThanks! Another update will be coming soon.


I really enjoy you including the settings of the camera for your pictures. Unfortunately, I got a little less disciplined with recording the settings as time wore on.


:wave:
Just wanted to say hi! I just discovered your TR a few days ago, and I've had such fun reading it! Can't wait for your next update - we were just at Pop in May, so its fun to see your pics, especially the panoramic shots. Wish I'd taken some of those:thumbsup2Howdy and :welcome: glad to have you here! I LOVED the Pop Century. At first I saw it as kind of a “Starter” resort, but now I don’t know that I would want to stay anywhere else.

Thanks for such a great trip report. It's really helping my pre trip doldrums (DLR this time). I'm at that point where I can't really research anything else and I can't make any more reservations. So I'm living vicariously through other trip reports.

Thanks for sharing the magic! :wizard:Howdy and :welcome: ! Great to have you reading along! I know all about the vicarious Dis’ing. Have fun on your trip!

[topdog]

[SIZE="3"]As I was leaving our table to get Tracy’s dessert, my chair snagged the camera strap on the Nikon and drug it to the ground. The 28-80 lens popped off and went flying. One of the three mounting posts on the back was already gone, and this fall took out a second. (Stinking cheap plastic mounts…but I’m not bitter…I’m moving on.)

ANYHOW, I can still use the lens, but I have to use one hand to hold it tight to the body, otherwise it tends to work its way loose and fall off. SO long story short, this was about the only time the entire trip I used this lens. The rest of the photos I took with this camera were with the 70-300 telezoom. For all of our other pictures, I mostly used our Sony Cybershot digital point & shoot.
Sorry to hear that. Note to myself-bring duct tape for next vacation to fix camera emergency. ;)

It could be worse. You could've forgot to bring your camera bag. :rotfl2:

[GreatBiscuit]

Sorry to hear that. Note to myself-bring duct tape for next vacation to fix camera emergency. ;)

It could be worse. You could've forgot to bring your camera bag. :rotfl2:Oh yeah, duct tape is DEF going in my suitcase next time! You make a valid point...it could have been much worse. Of the two lenses, this is the one I'd have sacrificed to save the other.

Speaking of lenses, this week my brother in law brought his Nikon DL40 digital SLR. (I think that's the model # but I am writing this on my phone and can't pop open a new window to see.). When we went to Sea World, I brought along the 70-300mm lens and tried it out on the digital body. It both fit and worked which made me happy. Only drawback is you have to leave it on manual focus. BUT I always do that anyway. The N60 takes about 3-5 seconds to focus that lens and it is so heavy, it sucks the battery dry in no time flat. Faster just to leave the focus set around 20' on the lens when its idle, then adjust manually when framing each shot. SO...long story short when I someday eventually upgrade, I can at least use the same telephoto lens.


Moving on to other things, First Lady Biscuit and I just finished our Anniversary dinner. (Tomorrow makes 12 years). We are now doing a bit of shopping...well actually I'm sitting on a bench typing a post on my phone, but you get the idea. Long story short, with family in town, a trip to San Antonio, two days at Sea World, and an Anniversary weekend, update two was simply not possible this week. So until Monday, have a great weekend and I will see everyone soon!

[brookelizabeth]

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!!!!!

:yay::yay::yay:

[HicksWDW]

Oh yeah, duct tape is DEF going in my suitcase next time! You make a valid point...it could have been much worse. Of the two lenses, this is the one I'd have sacrificed to save the other.

Speaking of lenses, this week my brother in law brought his Nikon DL40 digital SLR. (I think that's the model # but I am writing this on my phone and can't pop open a new window to see.). When we went to Sea World, I brought along the 70-300mm lens and tried it out on the digital body. It both fit and worked which made me happy. Only drawback is you have to leave it on manual focus. BUT I always do that anyway. The N60 takes about 3-5 seconds to focus that lens and it is so heavy, it sucks the battery dry in no time flat. Faster just to leave the focus set around 20' on the lens when its idle, then adjust manually when framing each shot. SO...long story short when I someday eventually upgrade, I can at least use the same telephoto lens.


Moving on to other things, First Lady Biscuit and I just finished our Anniversary dinner. (Tomorrow makes 12 years). We are now doing a bit of shopping...well actually I'm sitting on a bench typing a post on my phone, but you get the idea. Long story short, with family in town, a trip to San Antonio, two days at Sea World, and an Anniversary weekend, update two was simply not possible this week. So until Monday, have a great weekend and I will see everyone soon!

I just found your trip report and LOVE IT! I can't stop reading! We want more. :rotfl:

Happy Anniversary too! :love:

[GreatBiscuit]

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!!!!!

:yay::yay::yay:
THANKS!

I just found your trip report and LOVE IT! I can't stop reading! We want more. :rotfl:

Happy Anniversary too! :love::welcome: Glad to have you aboard! Thanks for the well wishes!

I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. I'll have an update for you later this evening.

[GreatBiscuit]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, pools were photographed, bowling balls were inspected, and painters pondered their task. I didn’t have time to stitch this one together before, so I’m throwing it in now just for kicks.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/BowlingPIn.jpg
(Composited from 13 photos, Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

Naps were completed, the resort had been toured, and suitcases had been partially delivered, it was TIME. The Biscuit clan was heading to the parks! As we had a dinner reservation at Chef Mickey’s, we were heading over to the Magic Kingdom. The wait for a bus was fairly short and within a few minutes, we were on our way. We knew Aunt Janna would be arriving soon and she was going to be meeting us just inside the turnstiles.

As we approached the Magic Kingdom, I kept a close watch out of the bus window so I could point out the castle to the girls. After what seemed like an eternity, we finally pulled into the MK resort bus stop. We disembarked and I started booking it up the hill, but was quickly advised by First Lady Biscuit to slow down. Her foot was not any better and she was having a hard time keeping up. I felt really bad for her and hoped and prayed it would be something she could just “walk off”.

We made it through bag check with no worries and it was then time to break out the Keys to the Kingdom cards. The whole bio-scan thing was new since the last time I was there. I wasn’t sure if it would slow things down, but it really didn’t seem to. Unfortunately on the way through, the turnstile spun back around and bumped Hailee in the head. From that point forward, she crawled under whenever we came upon one. Fortunately the Cast Members were all accommodating. We met up with Aunt Janna just inside the courtyard, and as we were heading to the tunnels, we ran into these characters.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1055.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

Character interaction now completed, it was time. The moment I had been dreaming about for years had finally arrived. I recorded the time for posterity sake and we headed to our left to enter the park.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000003.jpg[
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, f5.6, 1/1000, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/04000004.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Shutter Priority Mode, f5.6, 1/1000, ISO 400


I went through the tunnel first, camera in hand to record the girls first entrance into the Magic Kingdom. All of the worrying, budgeting, dreaming and scheming had finally paid off. Biscuit has come home.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430024.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430021.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430020-1.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430022.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430019.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

We had a first order of business, namely procuring the build your own Mickey Ears hats. Somewhere in all my planning, I thought it would be a good idea to get these first so the girls would have them for their first day in the park. For reasons unknown, I knew that the Chapeau was the store we needed, but had never bothered looking up the location of the Chapeau on the map. I inexplicably thought it was about midway down Main Street on the left. (I could have sworn it used to be there.) Thus, some backtracking was necessary to reach the shop, which is actually located in the corner of Town Square by Tony’s.

Preston was done fairly quickly. After surveying the Mickey Ears, he sent in a pinch hitter and went for a pirate hat. The girls were a little more difficult to please. Hailee wanted a specific hat, but it was the one that has the little crown & veil on top, which she did not want. It took a good 20 minutes to drill into her head that you can’t remove the snaps from the hat. Tahli was a bit easier to please and was done fairly quickly. Yet as long as the girls took in choosing the hats, it seemed to take even longer to pay for them. (I’m fairly certain no Register Journals were involved, but there was definitely something going on a couple of patrons ahead of us. Finally, we got everything squared away and left the hats to be embroidered.

Now it was time to get down to business. In our planning, I had let each girl pick out what their first attraction was going to be. Hailee wanted to ride “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and Tahli wanted “It’s a Small World”. Preston didn’t really seem to care. We headed through the castle (with Biscuit being sure to distract the girls as we sauntered past Bippity Boppity Boutique,) and headed towards the Honeypots.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1072.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

The posted wait time was 40 min and the Fast Pass return was at the same time as our dining reservation. I knew going in that it would be a bit of a wait at this time of day, but I had promised Hailee this would be our first ride. The line didn’t LOOK like it was 40 min so I was met with a quandry. While I was staring at the fast pass return times and doing Disney Queue math, Nana and Aunt Janna procured some refreshing beverages. We went ahead and jumped in line, and it actually turned out to be about 25 min from the time we lined up until the time we actually boarded our Honeypots. The girls both loved the ride and were laughing hysterically when we bounced with Tigger.

Next, we headed across Fantasyland, and I shot a few pics on our way to It’s A Small World.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430009.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430011.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

The girls were really excited about this one as well. The line was in constant motion and started near the top of the ramp.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1073.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1075.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 in Auto Mode)

It was maybe 10 minutes total before we were sailing through animatronic purgatory. As we sailed along, there was a ton of pointing and lots questions about which country we were in, how cool the dolls were, what animals we were seeing, and the constant question “Are they real or pretend?” That is until Tracy made me be quiet so the girls could enjoy the ride. Joykill!

Everyone loved this ride and I have to say, I found it far less annoying than the last time I was on it. I don’t know if it’s because I’m getting softer in my old age, or if having girls has just desensitized me. Either way, I’m pretty sure we would have gone on a second ride, had we not had a date with Mickey.

Having never done a character meal, and with limited experience in the way of table service meals, I was anxious to get moving. Of course on the way out, we passed Cinderella’s Golden Carousel and of course the girls wanted to ride, and of course they begged “PLEEEEEASE DADDY”, and of course after careful consideration of the time, our average walking speed, distance to the monorail platform, average travel speed of the monorail train, barometric pressure, and relative humidity, I calculated that a ride on the carousel would be permissible, so long has there was not a lengthy wait. Which there was not. In fact we walked right up and got on.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1064.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1065.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1063.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 in Auto Mode)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430012.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430013.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


After a few rounds with the wooden horses, we bid Fantasyland a fond “Later Dude” and headed to the front gates. I was worried the kids would protest leaving, but they were hungry and anxious to go meet Mickey Mouse. Would it be worth it? Would the wondrous and mysterious tales of juicy Prime Rib and succulent Parmesean Mashed Potatoes turn out to be accurate? We’ll find out next time on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure.

Coming up on Episode 53 - Dining with Rodents.

Click Here for the Next Episode! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32727435&postcount=756)

[brookelizabeth]

It's the kids that soften you to actually tolerate (or dare I say, even enjoy) It's A Small World. Watching their eyes light up and smile--nothing beats it! :goodvibes

As usual, you had me laughing out loud AND in tears in the same post. Love, love, love the pic of Tracy with the girls entering MK. And "Wishes" was playing on DISradio as I was reading your post-so appropriate. Ahhhhh...I'm a total sap! :laughing:

Your pictures are beautiful, GB. :thumbsup2

[bedillamouse]

I LOVED the pictures! Can't wait to show my girls the pictures so they can remember their trip. I'm kicking myself for not doing the hats! I'm excited to hear how they turned out for you guys! The kids are all smiling...awesome!!

Great off the cuff entry!
popcorn::popcorn::

[Backstage_Gal]

yay, you have finally arrived! DId the girls love the castle? did you cry?
I cant belive you waited so long for hats. :sad2:

[eandesmom]

Previously on Biscuit’s Grand Adventure, pools were photographed, bowling balls were inspected, and painters pondered their task. I didn’t have time to stitch this one together before, so I’m throwing it in now just for kicks.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/BowlingPIn.jpg
[SIZE="1"](Composited from 13 photos, Sony Cybershot DSC-S700, Auto Mode)

LOVE this one!

That is until Tracy made me be quiet so the girls could enjoy the ride. Joykill!

Everyone loved this ride and I have to say, I found it far less annoying than the last time I was on it. I don’t know if it’s because I’m getting softer in my old age, or if having girls has just desensitized me. Either way, I’m pretty sure we would have gone on a second ride, had we not had a date with Mickey.

amazing what little girls can do!


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430012.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430013.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

I love these Carousel pics!!!!!!! sweet, unguarded precious moments.

[SunnieRN]

Oh my goodness, the girls look so adorable! I love how all three of the kids seem to get along so well! That is so nice to see!

I've never been to POP, only by the entrance gates, but I kind of feel like I have been, due to your pictures! I especially love your panoramic pics!

Happy Anniversary and I hope you enjoyed your weekend!!

Looking forward to your meal with the fab 5!!

[chicagoshannon]

You did something that we never got to do on our trip-- walk thru the castle. I'm jealous. :) Can't wait to hear about Chef Mickey's.

[Sleepingbooty]

Yay! I love that first step into the Magic Kingdom - especially with children on their first visit ever, how magical!

And may I say, again, how awesome your photos are. You have inspired me to play around with my camera and try to figure out that photo stitch thingy. Unfortunately, I haven't been anywhere interesting in the last few days, so I'm practicing on photos of.... my living room. Don't worry, I won't post my results here. Wouldn't be quite as inspiring as your panoramic of the Bowling pin pool - But it could come in handy if I ever sell my house!;)

[PrincessV]

I was worried the kids would protest leaving, but they were hungry and anxious to go meet Mickey Mouse.
I have to say, reading up to this point I was a little worried about this plan, too! But well done making the destination a character meal with the Head Cheese himself - what could be a better draw to have them willingly leave the Happiest Place on Earth?! :thumbsup2

[DisneyMomLiz]

Having never done a character meal, and with limited experience in the way of table service meals, I was anxious to get moving. Of course on the way out, we passed Cinderella’s Golden Carousel and of course the girls wanted to ride, and of course they begged “PLEEEEEASE DADDY”, and of course after careful consideration of the time, our average walking speed, distance to the monorail platform, average travel speed of the monorail train, barometric pressure, and relative humidity, I calculated that a ride on the carousel would be permissible, so long has there was not a lengthy wait. Which there was not. In fact we walked right up and got on.

:rotfl: those calculations are so tricky, aren't they? :lmao:


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430013.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)

:goodvibes great picture...captures the best of feelings IMHO...Disney through your child's eyes!


Coming up on Episode 53 - Dining with Rodents.

Great update as usual, GB. Looking forward to your review of dinner with the rodents...we'll be going to CM for the first time in September, hope it was great! :woohoo:

[MrsSpratt]

Can't wait for more!

[Kimberly815]

I went through the tunnel first, camera in hand to record the girls first entrance into the Magic Kingdom. All of the worrying, budgeting, dreaming and scheming had finally paid off. Biscuit has come home.

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430024.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


Nice shot!


We went ahead and jumped in line, and it actually turned out to be about 25 min from the time we lined up until the time we actually boarded our Honeypots.


Luck going your way! Unheard of! (But I like it!)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1064.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1065.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)

http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/100_1063.jpg
(Kodak Easy Share C713 Digital Point and Shoot in Auto Mode)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430012.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/greatbiscuit/WDW%202009/17430013.jpg
(Nikon N60, Sigma 70-300, Auto Mode, ISO 400)


Too cute!



Coming up on Episode 53 - Dining with Rodents.

Rodents really are the best to dine with!

[Normangirls]

We are so GREEDY! You post this wonderful update, and we all start asking: when's the next one coming?

But it's your own fault, writing clever and engaging TR's.

The pics of Mrs. Biscuit and the little Cinnamon Rolls are very sweet.

So when's the next update coming?