What a disaster!!

[topdog]

This is probably my most adventurous trip to Disney. If anything can go wrong, it got worse. I forgot and left my camera gear bag at home. I lost my wallet at DHS with money, Disney gift card and credit card. I spend so much time walking around all the parks every day, my feet developed some serious blisters. I was limping by the time I left Disney.

Having said that, there are some exciting highlight as well. First, we basically eat our way out of Disney. :jumping1: Let's put it this way. We have the deluxe dining plan and we ran out of dinning points. We end up paid for 1 breakfast from our pocket. In addition, we used up all our snack point as well. Second, I met quite a few of the American Idols up close but I didn't take any pictures. Just don't want to be intrude. Some of them were staying at the same resort as mine. They were literally walking within inches next to me at the resort.

To finish off the trip, we missed our layover at the Atlanta airport. The airline sent us out to stay over night at Comfort Inn. What a dive!! :scared: After 13 hours delayed from the original flight schedule, we finally arrived home a couple of hours ago. What a relief!! :thumbsup2

As soon as I have the energy to process some pictures, I will then start writing my trip report. Please stay tune...

[mrskckitty]

It couldn't all be bad - at least you were in Disney World! I'm looking forward to reading your report.

[GeminiAngel]

:rotfl: :rotfl: Sounds like a great time! :rotfl: :rotfl:

[KeepSwimmingDory]

oh no...not the camera gear bag that everyone was drooling over on the WL thread.:scared1: Really sorry to hear about the wallet too. Glad you were able to enjoy the food in spite of all the challenges. Will be watching for more and hope the trip gets better. Doesn't sound like it can get much worse.:lmao:

[topdog]

It couldn't all be bad - at least you were in Disney World! I'm looking forward to reading your report.

:rotfl: :rotfl: Sounds like a great time! :rotfl: :rotfl:

Thank you for stopping by. This trip certainly has a lot of twist and turn.

oh no...not the camera gear bag that everyone was drooling over on the WL thread.:scared1: Really sorry to hear about the wallet too. Glad you were able to enjoy the food in spite of all the challenges. Will be watching for more and hope the trip gets better. Doesn't sound like it can get much worse.:lmao:
Yes, KSD. I forgot the "bag". I almost fainted at the airport.

[kismet1003]

Can't wait to hear more!!!! :)

[GreatBiscuit]

This should be a fun one. Since booking our trip, I've awakened twice now after having a nightmare that I forgot to bring my beloved camera gear. :faint:

[tea pot]

Oh No !!!!!:eek: :eek:
Just enjoyed your pics over at the VWL thread. :surfweb: Pixie Dust sent your way. pixiedust:
Looking forward to more ....Hang in there :thumbsup2 and Thanks in advance.

[jade1]

Sorry to hear that. Darn, I used one of your pics to put WL next to CR-sorry about not asking.

Anyway was hoping for some of BLT. Next time.

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc149/jademn/CR4-1.jpg

[Planning fanatic mom]

Well, I'd like to hear more.

Thanks in advance.

[GoofyFairie]

Wow! Now that sounds like stuff that happens to me. What a bummer about all that camera gear! And the wallet! I thought a couple of times while you were at the world that I couldn't wait to see what kind of shots you were getting of WL to post! Did you go parasailing again? Don't keep us in suspense... let's hear about your trip!

[topdog]

Can't wait to hear more!!!! :)

Thank you for stopping by.

This should be a fun one. Since booking our trip, I've awakened twice now after having a nightmare that I forgot to bring my beloved camera gear. :faint:

When I realize I forgot the camera bag, I keep telling myself it must be a nightmare. Thank you for stopping by.

Oh No !!!!!:eek: :eek:
Just enjoyed your pics over at the VWL thread. :surfweb: Pixie Dust sent your way. pixiedust:
Looking forward to more ....Hang in there :thumbsup2 and Thanks in advance.

Thank you for the pixel dust. I can use some.

Sorry to hear that. Darn, I used one of your pics to put WL next to CR-sorry about not asking.

Anyway was hoping for some of BLT. Next time.

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc149/jademn/CR4-1.jpg

Not a problem. Feel free to play around with the picture.

Well, I'd like to hear more.

Thanks in advance.

Thank you for stopping by. I will do my best to keep up with the report.

Wow! Now that sounds like stuff that happens to me. What a bummer about all that camera gear! And the wallet! I thought a couple of times while you were at the world that I couldn't wait to see what kind of shots you were getting of WL to post! Did you go parasailing again? Don't keep us in suspense... let's hear about your trip!

Thank you for stopping by GoofyFairie. I took a lot more inside the WL this time than outside. Hope it doesn't disappoint you. No parasailing for me this time. It was kind of chilli to parasail any way. I only saw some one parasail once during my entire stay.

[topdog]

I will try to keep up with my report. However, I can only access DIS from home after work. My office block off all forum site. Since I am an extreme commuter, therefore I only have very limited amount of time during work days to do update.

Let me first give a little introduction about myself.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/DSCN0148.jpg
I am 46 yrs old. Married for over 15 years. I work for a international financial firm as a technical production manager for their marketing business unit. My job is to manage all the high speed color production printing system and a few automation enterprise publishing systems. My office is in NJ but I live in PA. However, I am getting transfer to our PA office in a few week so my commute will be a lot shorter.

I do like Disney very much but I am more of an animation fan in general. Other than Disney, I also like Japanese animation, looney tunes, DC comics as well as Marvel comics. I also graduated from an art high school in NYC. My major was architect.

This is my 5th trip to Disney. I booked this trip only about 6 weeks ago after I saw the Disney buy 4 get 3 free promo. My DW made all the dinner reservation because we added the deluxe dining plan.

I should post my 1st day report in the next day or so as soon as I can process a few pictures to go with the report. After going away for 7 days, coming back to work was tough. I spend the entire day just to catch up my office email. Squeeze in a few production request as fast as I can but I am still behind.

[jade1]

Nice intro, thanks. Pictured someone larger after the "eat your way through Disney" comment. ;) Looking forward to the report.

[topdog]

LOL...You are not the first one who said that. Actually, I am 6'2" and weight about 180 lbs. So I am not that big but I am not tiny either. Many of my friend just can not believe the amount of food I can eat.

[GeminiAngel]

Very nice to meet you.

[Planning fanatic mom]

Nice to meet you fellow PA resident. :banana:

How about this weather today??? YUCK!!!!!

[mouserus]

Already sitting on the edge of my seating waiting for your TR. I'm also ready with some popcorn. Now hopefully you can make sometime for us-soon!

[dvc at last !]

Topdog,

I need more after your intro...

:cool1:

[ccigliano]

Very nice to meet you and so sorry about your wallet. Who knows maybe you'll get a package in the next few days and it will be your wallet with all its contents. Here's some pixie dust:tink:. I saw your pics on the WL thread - how did you take the hallway shot - a little tripod on the floor? Looking forward to reading more.

[KittyKat08]

Hello :wave2: This TR sounds like it's going to be an interesting journey so I'm jumping on board. Looking forward to hearing all about it. :goodvibes

[topdog]

Very nice to meet you.
It's very nice to meet you too.
Nice to meet you fellow PA resident. :banana:

How about this weather today??? YUCK!!!!!
Nice to meet you too. Are you from Hanover by Wilkes-Barre? I lived at WB for 15 years. Now I am at Pocono area. The weather isn't that bad here. I drove back from NJ with not much of a problem. So far, we have about 2 inches of snow in my area.
Already sitting on the edge of my seating waiting for your TR. I'm also ready with some popcorn. Now hopefully you can make sometime for us-soon!
Thank you for stopping by. Hope I won't disappoint you. :)
Topdog,

I need more after your intro...

:cool1:
Thanks. You wish is my command. LOL...
Very nice to meet you and so sorry about your wallet. Who knows maybe you'll get a package in the next few days and it will be your wallet with all its contents. Here's some pixie dust:tink:. I saw your pics on the WL thread - how did you take the hallway shot - a little tripod on the floor? Looking forward to reading more.
That would be a nice surprise. I think it will make my DW more happy than I am. :) Yes, I believe that shot was taken with a tripod.
Hello :wave2: This TR sounds like it's going to be an interesting journey so I'm jumping on board. Looking forward to hearing all about it. :goodvibes
Thank you for stopping by.

-----------------------------------------------
I should able to start posting my report tomorrow night. Hope it will entertain every one.

[LaurenMic]

I'm so glad you decided to do a TR! Sounds like you had an interesting trip, I'm sorry it was kind of rocky for you at times! But I'm still very eager to hear how it all went.

You guys definitely got your moneys worth out of the DDP it sounds like. I can't wait to hear about where you ate and to see more of those great pictures!

[speatleysson]

yowza!!!! :eek:

[VanniGirl]

Wow - what a way to begin a vacation!!

Looking forward to reading more :)

[heaven2dc]

I definitely am subscribing to this one! So sorry to hear about your loss (wallet, credit cards, etc.)!! Am hoping you recovered them but will have to wait and see :confused3

[GoofyFairie]

topdog I doubt that I will be disappointed in your pics. Anything would be better than what I take with a point and shoot. Besides, PA folks have to stick together! Can't wait to hear the rest of your story, I am living vicariously through others. I hope all turns out well with the loss of the wallet- no credit card theft! :(

[angela3676]

popcorn:: got my corn popped and my :drinking1 drink ready. This sound interesting, bring on the TR.

[Planning fanatic mom]

Nice to meet you too. Are you from Hanover by Wilkes-Barre? I lived at WB for 15 years. Now I am at Pocono area. The weather isn't that bad here. I drove back from NJ with not much of a problem. So far, we have about 2 inches of snow in my area.



No, I'm in York County, but I grew up in Stroudsburg.

It's a small world after all.:lmao:

[toocherie]

This sounds like fun!

[topdog]

I'm so glad you decided to do a TR! Sounds like you had an interesting trip, I'm sorry it was kind of rocky for you at times! But I'm still very eager to hear how it all went.

You guys definitely got your moneys worth out of the DDP it sounds like. I can't wait to hear about where you ate and to see more of those great pictures!
Thank you for stopping by. Wait until you see the amount of food I ate. :eek:
yowza!!!! :eek:
Thank you for stopping by.
Wow - what a way to begin a vacation!!

Looking forward to reading more :)
Thanks.
I definitely am subscribing to this one! So sorry to hear about your loss (wallet, credit cards, etc.)!! Am hoping you recovered them but will have to wait and see :confused3
Thank you for the kind word.
topdog I doubt that I will be disappointed in your pics. Anything would be better than what I take with a point and shoot. Besides, PA folks have to stick together! Can't wait to hear the rest of your story, I am living vicariously through others. I hope all turns out well with the loss of the wallet- no credit card theft! :(
Thank you. I appreciate your kind words and hope you will enjoy my writing.
popcorn:: got my corn popped and my :drinking1 drink ready. This sound interesting, bring on the TR.
Thank you for stopping by.
No, I'm in York County, but I grew up in Stroudsburg.

It's a small world after all.:lmao:
Nice quote. I am only 15 miles away from Stroudsburg.
This sounds like fun!
Thank you for stopping by. Hope you like the report.

Next post...the report begins...

[topdog]

Prologue

I just want to set the stage a little bit. This is my 5th trip and my DW’s 3rd trip to Disney. So we are pretty familiar how our Magical Express, deluxe dining plan and WDW transportation work. That’s why DW start making ADR 6 weeks ago so we don’t have to wait until the last minute. We purposely book only up to 18 dining points for each person so we can reserve 3 point for any unexpected meal schedule. (Glad we did that.)

As for the camera bag situation, I have posted a pre-trip report plus the WL photo thread on how much gear I will be bringing to this trip.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Gears.jpg
I bought a new point&shoot camera for my DW just for this trip so she can do some shooting on her own. She did not like my tiny point& shoot I already have. In addition to that, I even bought an extra medium size and a smaller size camera for this trip as well. The medium size is for me because it can allow me to scale down what I want to carry on that day instead of lugging the monster bag everywhere. The smaller bag is from my DW.

This infamous camera bag has been a conversation piece among my friends for a while.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Trip/CameraBag.jpg
They always poke fun at me how much stuff I am carrying and how heavy it is. This bag even has a laptop compartment which house my 17” Apple laptop for my last trip to Disney. For this trip, I only brought a Sony VAIO UMPC because it only has a 4.5” screen, nice and light. The only time I did not bring my big camera bag was my last vacation to Aruba. That’s because I want to travel light since I was traveling outside the country. It will become a pain if custom wants to open and search everything.

One of my goal on this trip is to learn how to take pictures in low light condition without using the flash. Something I have not try regularly and want to take on that challenge. Photography has been my hobby for 30 years. I only do it occasionally and I do have a portfolio. I do mostly outdoor pictures but black&white only since I can develop the negative and make print on my own. I have switched to full digital about 4 years ago and I shot mostly racing, airshow and some sports. I don’t shoot portrait but I did shoot a few weddings session as a favor but only one in film. The rest are digital. So I do accumulate quite a collection of photography equipment through out the years.

Lastly, please pardon my writing. That’s not exactly my forte and I know my grammar is pretty bad. I blame that as my Asian short fall. LOL… Having said that…Let the journey begins…

Day #1 (Sunday) Part 1.

My DW and I spend yesterday morning to clean the house, vacuum, take out garbage and laundry, the usual chore. By noon, I begin to check all my photography gears. Making sure all the batteries were fully charged. All the flash memory were format so it’s ready for action. Making sure the little Sony UMPC has enough space for the pictures files. I don’t want to deal with burning CD or DVD. I simply copy all daily picture into this little guy and then make a duplicate copy onto my iPod. Now I have backup of everything without a stack of discs.

My DW already had her luggage packed by then. I did not pack until when I was ready for bed. So I stayed up pretty late to pack my luggage. All I need is a few t-shirts and golf shirts, two pair of jeans and a few pair of shorts plus 1 pair of new hiking shoe. (That turns out to be a curse also.) If I have my way, I probably can get away with a back pack. But I don’t think my DW would appreciate that one.

Our flight this morning is at 6:00am. Needless to say, I didn’t get much sleep. My DW woke up at 2:30am and I woke up at 2:45am. I was a little groggy after only about 3 hours of sleep. Anyway, I took my shower. Carry my luggage and the camera bag downstair to the family room. DW was already ready to go. I ran back upstair to turn off all the water valves then come back down and do the same plus unplug some of the major appliances. A habit of mine so I don’t have to come back worry a pipe might get busted or there was some kind of electrical storm that zap the house appliances.

After all that, I begin to load up the car. As I was loading the car, I thought to myself, I will save the camera bag last because I want to put that into the back seat instead of the trunk. So, I go back into the house and take out one bag at a time to load the car. Just when I load up the 2 big luggage plus my tripod, DW came out and hopped into the car. Normally, I have to chase her out of the house and then make one last sweep of the house before I lock everything up. So I thought, I guess we are ready to go and closed the door. Back out the car and head to the airport. It’s was about 3:10am.

Road was fine and still a bit cold. We had single digit weather for weeks. Today was consider a heat wave, in the mid 30s. We arrived the Allentown airport at about 4:05am. Plenty of time to check in. DW even printed the boarding pass the day before, so no rush there. I parked the car. Unload the luggage and we start walking to the departure terminal.

Once we got inside. DW wants to go to the rest room. I said, “Go ahead. I will sit here and wait.” While DW was gone, I look at my tripod and thought the strap that hold it together wasn’t tight enough for me to carry on my back. So I tried to figure some way to make it tighter. I know I packed some velco strap in my camera bag. I thought that might work better. I looked around to our pile of luggage and realize something is not right. I kept stare at the luggage in disbelieve thinking if I look hard enough, the camera bag is there. After staring for about 10 seconds, reality finally sink in. I know I have left my camera bag at home. My heart begins to pound from that point. My nightmare just begin. Suddenly, I felt my blood has completely drain out of my body. I want to run back to the car to see if I left it in the back seat even deep down inside I don’t I didn’t. But I was alone and I couldn’t leave until DW is back. A very few long minutes later, DW came back and I told her the “BAD” news. I said, “I am sick to my stomach right now.” She was shocked. I ran back to the car to check it one more time and obviously the bag wasn’t there. I ran back to the terminal feeling very depress and wanted to cry. But I know that would make my DW feels really bad and I don’t want to let that ruin our trip. I tried very hard not to let it bother me but I was very quiet. The only camera we have with us was the new point & shoot I bought for her for the trip because DW wants to carry on her shoulder. Even that, the battery wouldn’t last through the whole trip.

My DW knew I was not happy and tried to say something to make me feel better but it was very hard not to get upset after I spend so much time on getting everything together. She was such a real trooper. My head just keep thinking what can I do to solve the situation. So we scanned the boarding pass at the kiosk and check in our luggage, then begins to walk to the departure gate. Obviously, we were early and there was not a whole lot of people fly out of Allentown airport. We were alone pretty much for over an hour.

I kept thinking maybe somehow I can mail my bag to the resort then I would lose only 2 days without my gears. Regardless if that works or not, I took out my UMPC and connect to the airport wifi. The UMPC did not get packed into the bag. It holster onto my belt because it’s so small. When I took it out to go thru the x-ray machine, they did a double take and wonder what that was. It’s a little smaller than 2 DVD boxes stack together. I told them it’s a computer. It has a built in keyboard, mouse and everything. I slide up the screen and show them the keyboard and they were scratch their head wondering how small this thing is. Luckily, the Allentown airport do have wifi and it’s free. I went to Disney’s website and look up the address for Wilderness Lodge , where we stay. I wrote it down on a piece of paper just in case I figure how to get the bag to me.

By 5:30am, we boarded the flight and it left exactly at 6:00am. I watched Pirates of the Caribbean on my iPod but then fell asleep. Flight did hit some turbulence and my head was shaking around during sleep. DW has to woke me up so I don’t get bounce around. While I was awake, DW told me I should ask our friend who lives about a few minutes away from our house and see if she can stop over to pick up the bag then UPS it to the resort. Normally, I won’t suggest that because I know it will cost major $$$. But since she suggested it, I am clear for that idea. Beside, both of our cell phone charges were in the bag too. We won’t able to call any one in a matter of 2 days. So I have to make a quick decision then.

After we landed at Atlanta airport and walked over to the connect flight terminal, we still has a little over an hour before our next flight. We stop at Starbuck for a Chai. DW said it again, “You really should consider asking our friend to UPS the bag.” After much consideration knowing I will regret it if I don’t do this, I broke down and call our friend once we walked out Starbuck.

I sat down at the terminal where we will be board our next flight and start calling our friend. She answered the phone and I began to tell her the story. Even she couldn’t believe I forgot “The BAG”. So I proceed to asked her if she can help me out and she agreed it’s not a problem. I gave her the WL address but told her wait until I call her again so I can give her the room# after we check in. I felt a little better after the call but felt unease at the same time knowing all my gears will be in the hands of UPS.

A little after 10:00am, we were in the air. Flight was ahead of schedule. We landed at Orlando at about 11:35am. First thing I did when we walked out of the terminal, I bought a cell phone charger at the airport for DW. My cell phone is a company phone and I don't want to sell the money for it. Cost for DW’s cell phone charger, $30. It’s expensive but at least I won’t have to worry about the battery should the bag has any hiccup getting to Orlando.

We then proceed to take the shuttle tram and walked downstair to the Magical Express counter. There was a sea of people. We got in line and wait until we get to the next available CM. She was a very nice older lady. She asked us where are we staying and how long are we staying, the usual greeting questions. I told her we will be staying at WL and she stamp our book for the transportation then directed us to get on line #8 for the bus.

So we walked over to the bus line waiting area and there it was, the red carpet was there to greet us.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Trip/redcarpet.jpg
We found line #8 and hardly anyone is on that line.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Trip/busline.jpg
But the other lines #1-7 were packed with people. After waiting for about 15 – 20 minutes, it’s our turn to get on the bus. Everything was pretty smooth from that point.

The bus drop us off at the WL. We walked in and got mesmerize by the lobby, as usual. Got in line to the check in counter. The nice CM gave us all the paper work and told us room is not ready yet. It should be ready some where around 3pm. He gave us a card to call for room status in case if we decide to head to the park right away. By then, it was almost 1pm. Not too bad. We then walked over to the concierge desk and try to sign up for the flag raising ceremony. Unfortunately, the CM told us we were too late because they were booked for the next 7 days. (A minor disappointment.)

By then, both of us were hungry because we haven’t eaten anything since we woke up. We did not make any ADR for lunch today because we don't know if we would make it to the reservation. So we are free to go any restaurant we want and off to Whispering Canyon Café we go.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/WCC.jpg

I have to stop here because this is getting really long and my finger is getting tired from typing. If anyone think I am rambling too much, please let me know. I will try to shorten it. Day #1 (Sunday) Part 2 should be ready soon.

[goin2themouse]

I've never subbed to a trip report before, but yours has lured me in! I can't wait to hear what happens next with the camera gear. :)

And no, not too wordy at all. I'm enjoying it!

[mom_of_3_70737]

Love your TR so far! Can't wait for more!! :surfweb:

[GeminiAngel]

Great update! Very nice of your friend to do that. I would love to stay at WL sometime.

[MousekaMaddi]

lovin it:cool1:

[Stacerita]

Looking to hear some more. And don't shorten or worry about rambling. I love hearing the trip reports in the person's real words, not just "we did this and this than that". I enjoy hearing the thoughts and reasonings as well. Can't wait to read the rest.

[heaven2dc]

Oh my gosh - I feel so bad for you! I am so hoping you got the bag delivered safely (and quickly). Plus don't worry about whether you are being wordy - you are not, we love all the details!

[Planning fanatic mom]

Great TR. Can't wait to hear more.

We are staying at WL this June for the first time. Can't wait!!!:cool1:

[angela3676]

Not to wordy at all. I'm enjoying the tr. Waiting for the answer to the big question. Did you get the camera bag? Wow you have a lot of equipment.

[ccigliano]

Enjoying your trip report. Not too long at all. Keep all the details coming. Wilderness Lodge is my favorite resort.

[Dustmouse]

OK, I'm definitely on board for this one! Keep it coming and don't leave anything out! :goodvibes

[noahdove]

I'm in...sorry for your rough start..

[topdog]

Thank you every one for the encouragement. Glad every one enjoy my report. I will do my best to write as detail as possible.

After going away for 7 days, coming back to work was tough. I spend 2 days just to catch up on office email and requests. I barely have time to even think. At the same time, I am moving my office back to PA. My head is spinning like a tops.

I did however already start writing the next installment today. Just a paragraph here and paragraph there between work. Hopefully, it will get done before the weekend is over.

I also wants to thank all the new readers for dropping by.

[LaurenMic]

Great update! I'm so sorry about your camera bag, I would be nervous to send it UPS too. I hope everything worked out ok in the end!

Good luck getting caught up at work, going back after vacation is the worst!

[fortheloveofamouse]

Just wanted to say I am enjoying your report. I can't relate from the camera equipment angle (point and shoot kind of girl) but I have had blisters nearly ruin a trip to Disney. Can't wait to hear more.....:)

[KeepSwimmingDory]

Off to a great start topdog. Looking forward to more. popcorn::

[walkerag]

Just chiming in to say I understand.

In 2006 we went to WDW and my father came along in a separate vehicle.
When we got a little way into Georgia my car died ..... on the interstate :eek: Fortunately we were able to get it going again but lost several hours in the process. Well, since we were running so behind we decided at 2:00 am that we should all just stop and get a motel room for the night. When we went to leave the next morning my father's car wouldn't start :headache: .. the alternator went out, so we spent the rest of that day having his alternator fixed and left the next day..
By the time we finally got going the next morning tropical storm Alberto was coming through and we drove through torrential downpours. The next day, our first day at Disney, (we ended up losing 2 of the 4 days we planned on going to DW) the first part of the day it rained... alot.
After that things go better but we went to Daytona Beach for the 2nd half of the week and I got a BAD sunburn. I was so concerned with making sure DD had plenty of sunscreen on at all times that I neglected myself. :sad2:

We laugh about it now, but there was a silver lining. That first day at Disney after the rain stopped the sun came out and the weather was wonderful. The Magic Kingdom was deserted and most rides were a walk on. We had such a good time :thumbsup2

[topdog]

Great update! I'm so sorry about your camera bag, I would be nervous to send it UPS too. I hope everything worked out ok in the end!

Good luck getting caught up at work, going back after vacation is the worst!
That's the worst part of vacation. Not fun.
Just wanted to say I am enjoying your report. I can't relate from the camera equipment angle (point and shoot kind of girl) but I have had blisters nearly ruin a trip to Disney. Can't wait to hear more.....:)
It was painful but luckily I had the blisters two days before the trip was over. It could've been worse.
Off to a great start topdog. Looking forward to more. popcorn::
Hello KSD. Thank you for the encouragement.
Just chiming in to say I understand.

In 2006 we went to WDW and my father came along in a separate vehicle.
When we got a little way into Georgia my car died ..... on the interstate :eek: Fortunately we were able to get it going again but lost several hours in the process. Well, since we were running so behind we decided at 2:00 am that we should all just stop and get a motel room for the night. When we went to leave the next morning my father's car wouldn't start :headache: .. the alternator went out, so we spent the rest of that day having his alternator fixed and left the next day..
By the time we finally got going the next morning tropical storm Alberto was coming through and we drove through torrential downpours. The next day, our first day at Disney, (we ended up losing 2 of the 4 days we planned on going to DW) the first part of the day it rained... alot.
After that things go better but we went to Daytona Beach for the 2nd half of the week and I got a BAD sunburn. I was so concerned with making sure DD had plenty of sunscreen on at all times that I neglected myself. :sad2:

We laugh about it now, but there was a silver lining. That first day at Disney after the rain stopped the sun came out and the weather was wonderful. The Magic Kingdom was deserted and most rides were a walk on. We had such a good time :thumbsup2

That must've been awful at the time. I can only image the stress level must've shot right through the roof.

[kjh73]

I'm really enjoying your trip report....sorry for the not so great start to your vacation. Can't wait to hear more!

[topdog]

Day #1 (Sunday) Part 2

Whispering Canyon Cafe was crowd but not full. The CM told us there will be a few minutes wait. We took the pager and sat at the lobby. Obviously, I wasn't able to sat too long. In a matter of a few seconds, I got up and start walking around the lobby. I was able to hunt down a hidden Mickey by the fireplace and I am pretty sure there are plenty people already know where that was.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/DSCN0362.jpg
It did not take long and the pager goes off and my DW flagged me down.

We walked in and the CM leaded us to our table. A very young CM name "Pippin" came wait on us. She was very friendly. Asked us has we been at WCC before and do we have a meal plan, all the fun stuff. We answered accordingly and then we gave her our order.
First, I started with a Mango Colada. It was mmm...mmm... good. Hit just the right spot.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day1/WCC_D1_P_drink.jpg
DW has a Chocolate shake. No picture for her food because she thought that was too corny. It took me a while to turn her around. For appetizer, I had a cup of Southwestern Chicken soup. It was delicious.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day1/WCC_D1_P_appetizer.jpg
I was so hungry...I can't remember what my DW has for appetizer or maybe she skipped the appetizer. For main course, I had an Angus Chuck Bacon Cheeseburger (Burger was very very good. :thumbsup2 )
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day1/WCC_D1_P_maincourse.jpg
and DW has some kind of salad with salmon. For desert, I had the Kahula flavor chocolate cake.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day1/WCC_D1_P_desert.jpg
This cake nearly knock my socks off. It was fantastic. I believe DW might've skip desert too.

When "Pipin" came back with our check, she explain to us how the meal plan works and the gratuity was no longer included but we can add that to our room key. That's exactly what we did. There goes 2 points to our meal plan.

After we left WCC, we went back to the check-in desk and see if our room is ready. The CM told us our room is ready and gave us our room number. Room # was 5132.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/5132.jpg
We even confirmed on the WL address to make sure my friend mail it to the right place. The CM did told us, make sure the package has the room# on it. So when they receive the package, some one will call us the package has arrived.

Here is the view from the balcony of our room.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS5951.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS5955.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS5957.jpg

The room has been rennovated like what I have seen on some pictures. New headboard with new furniture and new LCD flatscreen TV. I do like the flatscreen TV but I missed the old tube TV with the cabinet that has two doors to close it. The door has some kind of Disney characters on it too, I think. The wall hook was very nice too.

No more than 5 minutes after we got into our room, some one has knocked on our door. Our luggage has arrived. The CM brought them into our room and greet us with a big smile. I did gave him a few dollar for tips but not sure how much people usually tip them.

After we unpack, I was exhausted. My DW turned on her cell phone because we shut them off at the flight and never turned it back on to conserve the battery. Some one has left her a message. It was our friend to confirm the "Eagle" has landed. Code word for the camera bag is in her possession now. LOL... I gave her the room# and reconfirm the mailing address. Lastly, I told her just sent it for next day 10:30am delivery with x amount of $ insurance. I know the next day 8:30am deliver would cost a whole lot more. She got all the information and said she will UPS it tomorrow morning. From that point, I can only wish the solar system must line up so the bag will arrive in one piece.

By then, I can't keep my eyes open and neither was DW. We both took a nap on top of the bed cover. Woke up in about an hour later. It was about 4:30pm. We decide to head to MK for a stroll. We freshen up a bit and then head down to the lobby and walked to the boat dock. We love riding the boat more than the bus. Personally, I like the boat even more than the monorail but that's just me.

As soon as we got to the boat dock, the boat has just arrived. Perfect timing.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/DSCN0124.jpg
The boat ride was nice. Air temperature was about 70 degrees. It was very comfortable compare to our single digit degree temperature back home. Nonetheless, we took our sweatshirt with us for JIC.

By the time we docked at MK, it is almost 5:30pm. Sunset just begun. There was a nice warm glow at the castle from the sunset. I couldn't help but taking a few snap shot even with just a point&shoot camera.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0136.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0137.jpg
It does feel a little disappointing knowing my regular camera is sitting at home. It is what it is. I am not going to let that drag me down.

The park was pretty crowd but not overly crowd. We basically just walked around the park and checked out the gift shop. That's another fun thing we love to do. I love checking at those merchandise display. I also notice they have some promotion on $30 purchase and you can get a Mickey watch for only $15. If you spend $50, you can get a MK throw for $15 or $20. Pretty good bargain but I would rather wait for a few days before I start buying souvenir.

We start walking back toward the entrance by 7:00pm because we have a ADR at Tony Town's Square at 7:35pm. That's when I stop and took a picture with Goofy.(See my intro.) DW has to be the photographer on this one.

Since we were still early, I want to go up to the train station balcony to see if there is any good spot to watch the "Wishes". While the balcony might be great to watch the "Wishes" but I don't think it's a good place for taking pictures. One, it is too far from the castle. Two, there is a flag pole right in the middle and a couple of trees on either side that kind of block the view of the castle. Just when we were about to walk back to TTS, the train has arrived. I looked at the watch and it was still early. I ask DW if she want to ride and she gave me one of those why not look. The conductor said that will be the last train for the day anyway and the ride would last about 20 minutes. So we hopped on and went for a train ride, in the dark.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0149.jpg

After the train ride, we went back to TTS for dinner and it was packed. We waited patiently with room fully for hungry parents and children. We did not get seated until close to 8:00pm but that's okay. We are not that much of a hurry any way. That place was mopped with people.

Once we got seated, again, another nice CM came and greet us. I was thinking. I have never experience one CM gave us any attitude whatsoever no matter where we are or what we want. What does Disney feed these CM with? Did they paid them that well to be that happy all the time? I know...I always like to know those useless information.

The CM asked us do we have a meal plan. We answered yes and we have a deluxe meal plan. Then we gave him the order and just observe the surrounding. We sat right next to the Lady and the Champ fountain. A lot of little kids came by and took picture next to the fountain. Some even try to take picture of the fountain themselves. Very cute.

So, our drinks came first. I have a lemonade with Raspberry flavor.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_P_drink.jpg
DW might have a ice tea or something like that. Sorry, I wasn't paying attention. I think I might be still half asleep. Bread was pretty good and I was hungry too.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_Side.jpg
It did not take long before the appetizer came out. DW has a tomato and mozzarella salad
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_B_appetizer.jpg
and I have a cup of Portabello mushroom soup.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_P_appetizer.jpg
Both were very good. Next...the main course. DW has Catch of the day which is Perch served with Orzo Pasta tossed with Pancetta, Roasted Garlic and Seasonal Vegetables topped with Balsamic Maple Glaze.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_B_maincourse.jpg
I have New York Strip Steak served with port wine sauce, bake romano cheese potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_P_maincourse.jpg
My steak was all right. It did not has the WOW factor but not bad. DW loves her fish though. Then desert comes around. I have the Tiramisu - Espresso soaked Lady Fingers, whipped mascarpone and dark chocolate shavings.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_P_desert.jpg
It was fantastic. DW has the Lemon Walnut Layer Cake - layered vanilla cake filled with lemon curd and she like it very much too.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day1/TTS_D1_B_desert.jpg
All in all, the Tony's Town Square dinner was not bad but it can be better. I think it is so popular because of the location. I might give it a try again but only if I ran out of other restaurant to eat.

Now that our bellies are full, we need to walk off the food. It's already after 9:30pm and we head back to MK since it is closing at midnight. We walked back to the castle and admire how the color light changes. Then we too a ride at "It's a small world". It's my favorite ride at MK. While we were waiting in line listen to the music, I start humming along with the music and sang "It's a small world" in Chinese. My DW turn her head to me and start rolling her eyes. :) Because people around me start wondering what the heck I was singing. Yes, I can sing "It's a small world" in Chinese. May not be the whole song but I can sing most of it. I don't think there were too many people knew there is a Chinese version of "It's a small world". I learned that when I was about 8 or 9 years old when I was still living in Hong Kong. That's where I was born and raise. There's another Disney song I learn too but don't remember the name of the song. It's something with the "Happy place". I know the tune but just don't know the name.
Anyway, the ride was great. After we came out, we then headed to Haunted Mansion. There was no waiting time at all but let me tell you. I rode the Haunted Mansion countless time but never at 10pm at night. It was creepy to say the least. It's definitely the best time to take that ride. After that, we were just hanging by the castle admiring how pretty it was the water reflection from to the castle in complete darkness. Obviously, more pictures.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0179.jpg
By the time we had enough MK, it's already after 11:00pm. It's time to head back to WL. Tomorrow is another day. However, even I was very tired, I was only able to sleep for just a few hours. My mind is still thinking about the camera bag. Will it get here or will it get lost? If it get here, will it be in pieces or still in one piece? The stress was wearing me out or maybe I am just worry too much. Nonetheless, I managed to get a few hours of sleep any way. DW probably fell asleep before her head even hit the pillow. LOL...

[Fudbutter]

You are one lucky man

I would give anything to eat like you do, but instead I'll live just vicariously through your pictures and sigh

[Baloo]

Enjoying your report! I really like the picture of the castle with the sun reflecting on it.:)


I was thinking. I have never experience one CM gave us any attitude whatsoever no matter where we are or what we want. What does Disney feed these CM with? Did they paid them that well to be that happy all the time?No not at all...I have several friends that work at WDW and believe me they don't get paid NEARLY enough for all the great things they do...how they bring "the magic" to visitors...they get paid peanuts while Disney's CEO Bob Iger gets a 51 million dollar bonus! :mad: The CMs do it because of their love of Disney...it's a shame they don't get paid as well.:sad2:


Sitting on the edge of my seating hoping your camera makes it!

[Planning fanatic mom]

Love the update!

Questions:
1. Will the CM always ask if you have the meal plan?? We've never used it before this next trip. I don't remember them asking before. At the end of the meal, do you get a receipt to show you how much the meal would have cost? I don't know how you would know what the tip would be without this. Do you have to figure it out as you are ordering?

2. Did you write down all the details of what you ate for your TR? I would not be able to remember all of that. Those pictures are amazing!! (I can't even imagine what your pictures will look like when you get your camera) WOW:worship:

We are going to try TTS this trip. We love Italian food in our house. Thanks for the review.

Can't wait for more!!popcorn::

[msce2]

Saved by the food!! I'm sorry to hear about your camera bag. It must have been devastating to find that it hadn't made the trip when you spent so much time preparing. I'm waiting to find out if it makes it there in time!!! Your DW's camera takes really nice pics tho!

Great trip report!!!!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[GoofyFairie]

Topdog I am enjoying your trip report very much! :goodvibes And the pictures. :thumbsup2 I am subscribing so I don't miss any of it. popcorn::
I have to wait at least another year before we can return to WDW and the LODGE!

[topdog]

You are one lucky man

I would give anything to eat like you do, but instead I'll live just vicariously through your pictures and sigh
Ha! Ha! Trust me. It was not easy. Fortunately, we were able to burn it up fairly quickly when we walk around the park.
Enjoying your report! I really like the picture of the castle with the sun reflecting on it.:)
Thanks. That was taken with the newer point & shoot camera.

No not at all...I have several friends that work at WDW and believe me they don't get paid NEARLY enough for all the great things they do...how they bring "the magic" to visitors...they get paid peanuts while Disney's CEO Bob Iger gets a 51 million dollar bonus! :mad: The CMs do it because of their love of Disney...it's a shame they don't get paid as well.:sad2:


Sitting on the edge of my seating hoping your camera makes it!
Thanks for the well wish. I really wish the CEO realize how important the CMs are. They really set the stage as soon as the customer cross that entrance.

Reason I said that was because there's another "member" in this trip. I did not mention it because it seem very "silly." It's a Hallmark Xmas stuff bear (we name him "Ted") that travel with us on every trip. It's a long story why we did that.

Long story short, in 1995, my DW's first trip, we drove down to WDW from PA and we were staying at PR. When we drove pass the WDW front gate, Ted was laying on the dash. The CM at the gate spotted him right away and asked us does he need any special care? At first, I thought the CM was just trying to be funny. As I read more about how the CM conduct with their customers, I realize they are very observing and it's part of their working culture. It does make their customer feel very welcoming and special.

Since then, I've been trying to understand how that work from the training side. Not to mention, the business unit I work for has a very large customer service unit, about 4-500 people. At one point, my company even thought about the idea to sent some of us to get train at Disney University. They stopped short due to budget reason.

[topdog]

Love the update!

Questions:
1. Will the CM always ask if you have the meal plan?? We've never used it before this next trip. I don't remember them asking before. At the end of the meal, do you get a receipt to show you how much the meal would have cost? I don't know how you would know what the tip would be without this. Do you have to figure it out as you are ordering?

2. Did you write down all the details of what you ate for your TR? I would not be able to remember all of that. Those pictures are amazing!! (I can't even imagine what your pictures will look like when you get your camera) WOW:worship:

We are going to try TTS this trip. We love Italian food in our house. Thanks for the review.

Can't wait for more!!popcorn::

Great question.
Most of the CM did asked us about the meal plan. However, I think it's more of a confirmation to the CM. From what I understand, when we make our ADR, our dining plan information is already in the system. They printed out a little note and give it to the CM when we get seated. That way, the CM already know we have the meal plan. I believe the restaurant we "crash" in with out reservation did not ask us about the meal plan. We usually mention it to the CM before we order anything. CM will tell us what we can order since there is a different between regular meal plan and the deluxe meal plan which is what we have.

When the check comes, it does list every item we ordered and the price of every item we ordered plus the grand total of the food and tax. It also suggest how much tips you want to put down on the receipt. They printed out 18% and 20%; it even shown the dollar amount too. All I did was to circle one of them and the CM will take it with my Kingdom key card then charge it to my room. You also has the option to write down more or less tips in dollar amount as well should you opt not to choose the 18 or 20% tips.

When CM came back with the receipt for me to sign, there were 2 receipt I need to sign. One is for the tips only (for most of the meal, I gave the CM a minimum of 18%. There were a couple I gave 20% because the CM did worked very hard.) and the other is for the food but it should show $0, I think. We did get a copy of the receipt too but it also show $0 plus how many point we have left on our meal plan. Every meal we ate is 1 point per person per meal. 7 day for 2 people with 3 meals per day, that's 42 points all together. After TTS, the receipt shown we have 38 points left.

For the most part, that's how it work on every restaurant we went to. There were a couple that work a little different. But in general, that's how it work.

One other thing I forget to mention is every single CM knows the menu like the back of their hand. Not one CM has forgotten anything what's on menu or how it was prepare. Very impressive. :thumbsup2 There was no cheat sheet either.

Thank you for the compliment about the pictures. No, I don't take notes through out the trip. It's a work habit of mine. My way of think is if I wrote it down then I don't have to memorize it. Then when I loose my note, I won't remember anything anymore. But if I force myself to memorize everything, then the information stays with me for good. I've been doing this since after college. However, it does has some draw back. If I got some major distraction, I will forget some details. Case and point; look what happened to my camera bag. :rotfl2:

However, there is a little trick I have to help me remember every thing we did during vacation. Doing Disney for 7 days is a lot of stuff to cramp in. Even this brain can't retain every thing we did. Since I took so many pictures along the way every day, I just organize all my picture at the end of the trip by day. Day1, day2... Every picture has a time stamp. I just follow the chronological order of the files and that will tell me where did I went to or stop by at what date and what time. No need to remember anything. Very easy to follow. It takes a little time to organize them but once it's done, it tells me the whole story.

As for the food, I did took picture on a few menu. Mostly I rely on surfing the net. Disney site has some. Allears.net has some and DIS has some also. As soon as I see the menu, I can put 2 and 2 together. I believe there might be one or two I can't find the menu. That's because of Valentine day. The restaurant has a special menu create for that day so I won't able to find it any where on the net. I will just have to do my best to remember it.

[topdog]

Saved by the food!! I'm sorry to hear about your camera bag. It must have been devastating to find that it hadn't made the trip when you spent so much time preparing. I'm waiting to find out if it makes it there in time!!! Your DW's camera takes really nice pics tho!

Great trip report!!!!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2
Thank you for the kind words. Hope you enjoy the TR.
Topdog I am enjoying your trip report very much! :goodvibes And the pictures. :thumbsup2 I am subscribing so I don't miss any of it. popcorn::
I have to wait at least another year before we can return to WDW and the LODGE!
Glad you like the TR. It will be a while before I return to WDW also. I can't image we want to stay at any other resort other than WL. I even thought about travel to Yellow Stone Park to stay at the original Old Faithful Inn just to compare. DW already looking at Disney cruise with our friend at the end of this year. :scared1: It really depends on how much it cost and what's my budget. I better not forget my camera bag this time if we end up going. Because there is no way to mail the bag on to a cruise ship unless UPS can helicopter the bag over. :rotfl2:

[GoofyFairie]

Glad you like the TR. It will be a while before I return to WDW also. I can't image we want to stay at any other resort other than WL. I even thought about travel to Yellow Stone Park to stay at the original Old Faithful Inn just to compare. DW already looking at Disney cruise with our friend at the end of this year. :scared1: It really depends on how much it cost and what's my budget. I better not forget my camera bag this time if we end up going. Because there is no way to mail the bag on to a cruise ship unless UPS can helicopter the bag over. :rotfl2:[/QUOTE]

Doubtful UPS has oceanic helicopter service, but maybe the coast guard does! :lmao:

[Planning fanatic mom]

Great question.
Most of the CM did asked us about the meal plan. However, I think it's more of a confirmation to the CM. From what I understand, when we make our ADR, our dining plan information is already in the system. They printed out a little note and give it to the CM when we get seated. That way, the CM already know we have the meal plan. I believe the restaurant we "crash" in with out reservation did not ask us about the meal plan. We usually mention it to the CM before we order anything. CM will tell us what we can order since there is a different between regular meal plan and the deluxe meal plan which is what we have.

When the check comes, it does list every item we ordered and the price of every item we ordered plus the grand total of the food and tax. It also suggest how much tips you want to put down on the receipt. They printed out 18% and 20%; it even shown the dollar amount too. All I did was to circle one of them and the CM will take it with my Kingdom key card then charge it to my room. You also has the option to write down more or less tips in dollar amount as well should you opt not to choose the 18 or 20% tips.

When CM came back with the receipt for me to sign, there were 2 receipt I need to sign. One is for the tips only (for most of the meal, I gave the CM a minimum of 18%. There were a couple I gave 20% because the CM did worked very hard.) and the other is for the food but it should show $0, I think. We did get a copy of the receipt too but it also show $0 plus how many point we have left on our meal plan. Every meal we ate is 1 point per person per meal. 7 day for 2 people with 3 meals per day, that's 42 points all together. After TTS, the receipt shown we have 38 points left.

For the most part, that's how it work on every restaurant we went to. There were a couple that work a little different. But in general, that's how it work.

One other thing I forget to mention is every single CM knows the menu like the back of their hand. Not one CM has forgotten anything what's on menu or how it was prepare. Very impressive. :thumbsup2 There was no cheat sheet either.

Thank you for the compliment about the pictures. No, I don't take notes through out the trip. It's a work habit of mine. My way of think is if I wrote it down then I don't have to memorize it. Then when I loose my note, I won't remember anything anymore. But if I force myself to memorize everything, then the information stays with me for good. I've been doing this since after college. However, it does has some draw back. If I got some major distraction, I will forget some details. Case and point; look what happened to my camera bag. :rotfl2:

However, there is a little trick I have to help me remember every thing we did during vacation. Doing Disney for 7 days is a lot of stuff to cramp in. Even this brain can't retain every thing we did. Since I took so many pictures along the way every day, I just organize all my picture at the end of the trip by day. Day1, day2... Every picture has a time stamp. I just follow the chronological order of the files and that will tell me where did I went to or stop by at what date and what time. No need to remember anything. Very easy to follow. It takes a little time to organize them but once it's done, it tells me the whole story.

As for the food, I did took picture on a few menu. Mostly I rely on surfing the net. Disney site has some. Allears.net has some and DIS has some also. As soon as I see the menu, I can put 2 and 2 together. I believe there might be one or two I can't find the menu. That's because of Valentine day. The restaurant has a special menu create for that day so I won't able to find it any where on the net. I will just have to do my best to remember it.

Thank you very much for the detailed answer. It really does clear it up. I'm sure we will be fine.

Thanks

[kjh73]

What is the name of your point and shoot camera that you were using...the pictures are really nice. Hoping everything goes well with the delivery of your camera bag...I would be on pins and needles as well and not able to sleep.

[topdog]

What is the name of your point and shoot camera that you were using...the pictures are really nice. Hoping everything goes well with the delivery of your camera bag...I would be on pins and needles as well and not able to sleep.

The point and shoot camera I was using is a Nikon Coolpix P80. I picked it up from Amazon for a decent price. Fate of the camera bag will be review soon. :scared:

[chrisw127]

Ahhh! You've left us hanging--we need to know if the camera bag made it there safe and sound.

Also, love the title. How can you not read a TR entitled "What a Disaster"?

[topdog]

Ahhh! You've left us hanging--we need to know if the camera bag made it there safe and sound.

Also, love the title. How can you not read a TR entitled "What a Disaster"?

:laughing: Unfortunately, I have very little time to write about this every day due to my work schedule. I promise I will try to speed this up as quickly as I can along with the photo processing.

[heath-and-javens-mom]

Joining in on you TR...I love WL, and cant wait to be back home in Nov-Dec 09. :)

[Mrsdisneyb2b]

SO sorry about the bad things on your trip, but I am excited to continue reading your TR!
~Jenny

[saralexander97]

:flower3: Im bitting my fingernails to know if you camera bag made it safely. I'm lovin the TR and cant wait to see more of your beautiful pics.

[GreatBiscuit]

Topdog, I love the updates. Great castle photos, especially with a point and shoot. Just goes to show the importance composition and style. Looking forward to finding out how the camera bag drama unfurls.

[topdog]

Joining in on you TR...I love WL, and cant wait to be back home in Nov-Dec 09. :)
Thank you for stopping by. I can't wait until we go back to WL either. Soon I hope.
SO sorry about the bad things on your trip, but I am excited to continue reading your TR!
~Jenny
Thank you for the kind word Jenny. I promise, I will post the TR soon.
:flower3: Im bitting my fingernails to know if you camera bag made it safely. I'm lovin the TR and cant wait to see more of your beautiful pics.
Thank you for the compliment. Will post the TR soon.
Topdog, I love the updates. Great castle photos, especially with a point and shoot. Just goes to show the importance composition and style. Looking forward to finding out how the camera bag drama unfurls.
Thank you for the compliment. I will post the TR soon.

I just want to thank every one for the encouragement. Work is crazy right now. Projects to deal with. In the middle of all that, I have to pack and move my office to another state by this Friday. Not to mention, I drive 2 hours each way to and from work every day. That certainly eats up a lot of my time. 24 hours a day is just not enough even I start my day at 5:30am every day. Therefore I have very little time to update my TR. I apologize for the delay.

And the reality is...I've been working at my current office for over 7.5 years and 5 years from the previous one. Most of the people what sat next to me are the same people who move with me from the previous office. I felt sad to move and leave them behind after working together for almost 13 years. Even I will still visit this office once or twice a month but it's just not the same.

Thank goodness for telephone, email and IM. I still can connect with all my co-workers & friends without missing a beat.

Anyway, enough of my sob story. I promise my next post will be the TR of Day #2.

[KeepSwimmingDory]

Topdog - Thanks for letting us travel along with you! Such a nice detailed report. Pippin was our server last time we ate at Whispering Canyon Cafe. She was great! It was breakfast though--your food does tempt me to try it for lunch or dinner. LOVE the castle pics and they do show what a good photographer you are to capture such beautiful images with the point & shoot. It is certainly more than just what camera you use. I agree that Haunted Mansion is creepy late at night. We kind of felt the same about Tony's as you did. Like the theme and location, but the food was not anything to go back for so we haven't.

Enjoying all the pictures and details. I will be glad to hear when "the eagle" has landed at WL.

[Dustmouse]

A four hour commute is CRAZY!!!! I'm glad you are moving closer to home even if you have to leave friends behind.

As for the TR.....it's great! Can't wait to hear and see more! :)

[topdog]

Day #2 (Monday) Part 1
Despite my best effort, I got maybe about 5 hours of sleep and I think I am only running in 70% capacity. Since I am an early riser, 5:00 am is my normal wake up time. I woke up at about 6:00am. Looked out the balcony and it was dark and peaceful. Temperature must’ve been pretty cool last night because there were some fog this morning.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/DSCN0186.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/DSCN0192.jpg

Our breakfast ADR at Kona Café is at 7:35am this morning. I got off the bed at 6:20am for my morning shower and then my DW afterward. By the time we got to the boat dock, it was a little after 7:00am. Every thing was so peace and quiet. Water at the lagoon was like mirror.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/DSCN0194_B.jpg

We were the first and the only passengers in line. The CM greeted us with a smile as always. We told him we are going to CR to catch the monorail.
The boat ride was a little chilly. Temperature was in the low 60s and rising. Lucky us, we have our sweatshirt on. It was quiet refreshing when the fresh cool morning air blew against our faces. With only DW and I on the boat, I was very content with DW in my arm and listening to the sound of water splash against the boat every now and then. I wish the boat ride would last a little longer. At least that took the edge off from thinking about the camera bag.

Once the boat arrived the dock, we walked up to the CR and got to the monorail waiting area. The monorail came fairly quickly. We board the monorail but then we were stuck right before the main transportation terminal. I say we were sitting there for good 10 minutes. Not sure what's the hold up but it's not like we can get off. Then by the time we actually arrived the main transportation terminal, there were a slew of people got on the rail. I think Disney might be doing some kind of school program because I saw two group of kids got on. Each group has an assigned imagineer explain some of the thing they do in Disney, can’t remember what they were. It was pretty nice to see how Disney try to reach out to the next generation. It must be some kind of education program. Next stop, Polynesian Resort and that’s where DW and I get off.
It was a short walk from the monorail to Kona Café.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/KC.jpg

We were a few minutes late from our ADR because of the monorail delay. The CM said that’s not a problem and brought us in to the restaurant immediately. The restaurant was relatively empty at that hour in the morning. Another CM came and got us coffee and drinks. We went through the usual ordering process. Next thing, food was on its’ way.

First, I ordered the South Pacific Smoothies – A creamy blend of tropical juices served frozen. Flavors: Orange-Passion Fruit.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/KC_D2_P_drink.jpg
These smoothies are addicting. DW has the Raspberry Smoothies.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/KC_D2_B_drink.jpg

For main course, I have red meat for the third time. Steak and Eggs – 5-oz New York Strip Steak char-grilled and served with two eggs (over and easy), home fried potatoes and biscuits.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/KC_D2_P_maincourse.jpg
DW has Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes – served with Macadamia nut butter, pineapple sauce and ham. (This picture didn't come out well but I didn't care. I just want to eat at that point.)
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/KC_D2_B_maincourse.jpg
I can't understand why there is no desert for breakfast. Mickey and I need to talk. :)

So after our breakfast, as we were walking out of Kona Café, I saw a chef was preparing some kind of desert for lunch I guess. Don’t know what they are though. I can’t help myself and stop for a snap shot.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/KC_D2_desert1.jpg

Then as we walked out of the restaurant, there is a small coffee shop next to the restaurant. A lot of fresh pastries were on display. How can I not take another shot? LOL…
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/pastry1.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day2/pastry2.jpg
I figure the more I practice with this new camera, the better I get, I hope. You’ll be the judge on that.

We then decide to walk around the gift shop upstair and I was just fascinate on some of the display.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/PR_DSCN0220.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/PR_DSCN0225.jpg

While we were in the gift shop upstair, DW saw a Mickey margarita glass that she like. It’s make out of plastic even it looks like glasses. We thought, we were still early into the trip. Lets’ wait and pick them up later toward the end of the trip. That turns out into a major treasure hunt of the century.

So we finally left that gift shop and proceed to the gift shop downstair. As we walked down the step, I spotted tons of hidden Mickey. Can you spot them?
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/PR/Inside/DSCN0234.jpg

As we walked in to the gift shop downstair, I then realize the one upstair is mostly toys and this one is mostly clothes. More pictures obviously.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/PR_DSCN0236.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/PR_DSCN0240.jpg
We did found a lot of stuff we like but we have pretty good will power not to buy anything yet even we have a $200 Disney gift card dying to use.

As we left the gift shop, I spotted a statue for photo op and here I am in my “silly” mood.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0235.jpg

After that, it’s time to head for MK. So we left PR and instead of taking the monorail, we decide to try the boat ride from PR. Unforturnately, we were kind of lost looking for the boat dock. So we then decide to follow the sign to go back to monorail instead of walking back through the PR lobby.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/PR_DSCN0243.jpg
We just thought there was another way to get up there from outside. We were wrong. We end up walking all the way back to the main transportation terminal but that’s okay. We don’t mind walking off the food anyway.

By the time we got to the main transportation terminal, we changed our mind and decide to try the ferry instead. That’s was some crowd but not too bad. We don’t feel like sitting down so we end up leaning by the rail through out the ride anyway. So we got on “Richard F. Irvine”(not sure how Disney name this ferry) and on our way to MK.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Transportation/DSCN0256.jpg

Again, I just can’t get enough of the boat ride at Disney and I love that light wind on my face feeling.

Next post "the big news"…

[topdog]

A four hour commute is CRAZY!!!! I'm glad you are moving closer to home even if you have to leave friends behind.

As for the TR.....it's great! Can't wait to hear and see more! :)
Thanks. I've been doing the extreme commute for a very long time. It doesn't bother me that much and it's very common from where I live. Many of my neighbor either drive or take a bus commute into NYC or NJ every day. When I get call in to Hartford, CT, that's a 3.5 commute each way. I spend more time in my car than in my office.

[Planning fanatic mom]

OUstanding update. I love your pictures. Now I want to go to the Poly.

Thanks for all the info.

[heath-and-javens-mom]

Love the update. WL is so beautiful in the mornings..well all the time really.
Kona look sooo good..we have never ate there, I think I will make a adr there for this year. I also love Ohanas.:lovestruc
Boat ride is my transportation of chioce. ;)
Cant wait for the next installment!

Oh and I forgot to tell ya..our room was almost excatly in the same location as yours! We had the same view of the DVC property and the quiet pool...may have even been the same room....WEIRD. :)

[GoofyFairie]

LOVE the pictures topdog! They add so much to the trip report. I hope you have more of WL to share at some point. So..... WHAT"S THE BIS NEWS?! popcorn::

[topdog]

OUstanding update. I love your pictures. Now I want to go to the Poly.

Thanks for all the info.
Glad you like the pictures. We stayed at Poly back in 1995. My DW loved it. I like it too but prefer WL.
Love the update. WL is so beautiful in the mornings..well all the time really.
Kona look sooo good..we have never ate there, I think I will make a adr there for this year. I also love Ohanas.:lovestruc
Boat ride is my transportation of chioce. ;)
Cant wait for the next installment!

Oh and I forgot to tell ya..our room was almost excatly in the same location as yours! We had the same view of the DVC property and the quiet pool...may have even been the same room....WEIRD. :)
Kona is a great place to eat. When we went there in 1995. Kona was the very first restaurant we went to have dinner. My DW and I had this drink called the 7 seas. All I can remember was we can barely walk out of that restaurant after dinner and we even kept the glass. :)

I really like that room facing the second pool. The room we stayed last time was facing the large pool. It was good too but it can get a little noisy some time.
LOVE the pictures topdog! They add so much to the trip report. I hope you have more of WL to share at some point. So..... WHAT"S THE BIS NEWS?! popcorn::
Glad you like the pictures. I have plenty more pictures of WL, I promise. You'll just have to wait for the news. :)

[LaurenMic]

All caught up! Great updates, all those food pictures are making me hungry! That cake from WCC looks amazing, I wish I'd tried it when we were there in January!

[piglet50]

just found your tr. i am enjoying it very much. love the pictures.

[Disney71]

Loving your trip report so far....Can't wait to hear more :)

[2BOYMOM]

I am truly enjoying your TR and the awesome food pictures. I love food pictures.....

[mejkjj97]

Joining in for the ride. I am loving the pictures. i love the pictures of the WL in the morning.
Can't wait to read more and see more!

[mejkjj97]

Joining in for the ride. I am loving the pictures. i love the pictures of the WL in the morning.
Can't wait to read more and see more!

[tiggrbaby]

Just found your report. Can't wait to hear more about your adventures! Love the pics!

[Mickey's Sister]

I just found your trip report too. I'm on pins & needles, with my fingers crossed, waiting to hear how the camera-bag problem turned out! Your photos are amazing - you have quite an eye.

We're not too far from you in PA. We're near the Mahoning Valley interchange of the turnpike. I don't know how you do a 2 hour commute. I did it briefly in the early 90's - commuting to Harrisburg from here, and hated it. But we used to have a neighbor across the street who commuted to Manhattan every day. I can't imagine...

Thanks for sharing your experiences with us! I'll be waiting for the next installment! Good luck with your move.

[karen l]

I just found your TR too. Awesome pics & report topdog! Can't wait to learn the fate of the camera bag.

[topdog]

All caught up! Great updates, all those food pictures are making me hungry! That cake from WCC looks amazing, I wish I'd tried it when we were there in January!
IMO, That cake is the "BEST" desert in WDW.
just found your tr. i am enjoying it very much. love the pictures.
Thank you. There are much much more pictures.
Loving your trip report so far....Can't wait to hear more :)
Thank you for stopping by.
I am truly enjoying your TR and the awesome food pictures. I love food pictures.....
Glad you like the food pictures. I have plenty more.
Joining in for the ride. I am loving the pictures. i love the pictures of the WL in the morning.
Can't wait to read more and see more!
Thanks. I love going out to the pool area or the dock right before sunrise. I am completely in the "zone".
Just found your report. Can't wait to hear more about your adventures! Love the pics!
Thank you, thank you...thank you!
I just found your trip report too. I'm on pins & needles, with my fingers crossed, waiting to hear how the camera-bag problem turned out! Your photos are amazing - you have quite an eye.

We're not too far from you in PA. We're near the Mahoning Valley interchange of the turnpike. I don't know how you do a 2 hour commute. I did it briefly in the early 90's - commuting to Harrisburg from here, and hated it. But we used to have a neighbor across the street who commuted to Manhattan every day. I can't imagine...

Thanks for sharing your experiences with us! I'll be waiting for the next installment! Good luck with your move.
Yes, you are very close to me. I pass your area all the time when I go to Leighton or Palmerton. Small world.

The driving part actually doesn't bother me that much. It's the gas price that was killing me. Anyway, now my commute will cut down half now. I was starting out from Scranton first, then transfer to Newark, then Woodbridge and now back to Scranton. Just glad they didn't transfer me to Dubique, IA.
I just found your TR too. Awesome pics & report topdog! Can't wait to learn the fate of the camera bag.

Thanks. I will update soon about the camera bag.

[VanniGirl]

Great pics - everything looks yummy!!

Can't wait for more.

[topdog]

Day #2 (Monday) Part 2
By the time the ferry docked, it's already 9:20am. MK has already opened. There weren't a big crowd but a steady stream of people pouring in. Sky was beautiful (barely any cloud) and we can feel the temperature has already climb to low 70s. Once we passed the entrance, we have to remove our sweatshirt and DW need a restroom break. So I waited by the city hall building and I spotted a couple old friends of mine were playing with a kid.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0273.jpg

Since I am waiting and the P&S is with me, I might as well take a few pictures to get familiar with the camera.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0272.jpg
This fire house building is probably my most favorite building in the whole park next to the castle. I was also surprise how much I like the car barn too.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0278.jpg
The city hall is also another great looking structure.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0275.jpg

When DW returned from the restroom break, we began to head down the main street. There were a few things I know I want to take picture of but I want some thing different. I looked around and thought today I want to take pictures of windows and signs. Kind of like theme photography. That might sound easy but it was a lot more difficult than I thought. After I took a few, I began to loose interest. Not sure why. Maybe I just can't harmonize myself with the P&S. Nevertheless, I still took quite a few pictures of windows and signs. I only include a few pictures of windows and signs in this TR because I thought that might be too boring. (Maybe I will create & post a Disney gift shop display gallery later.)
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0286.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0290.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0274.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0280.jpg

So once we passed the main street, I knew I want pictures of the bronze statues. I don't believe they were there in 2005. They were a lot smaller than I thought.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0297.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0296.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0295.jpg

We then just kept strolling around for the most of the morning. Since there weren't really that many people around, so we are not that hurry for the rides. I just kept on taking picture of the signs and some of the gift shop display until we get to the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, our first ride of the day.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/MK_DSCN0312.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/MK_DSCN0307.jpg
Waiting time was only 10 minutes but literally there was no waiting time at all. We were in and out with less than 30 minutes. Gift shop is another a must for us when we get off the ride.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/MK_DSCN0310.jpg

Pretty much, the rest of the morning was uneventful. Until we got to "The Yankee Trader" gift shop at about 10:30pm. My DW's cell phone rang. It was our friend gave us the update on the camera bag, aka "The BIG NEWS". Apparently, our friend planned to stop by the UPS store that morning on her way to work. However, the UPS store doesn't open that early since she leaves her house at 6:00am and has the same 2 hours long commute as I do. Then she took the bag to her office and gave it to "Bob" who is in charge of the their shipping department. Our friend work for a large HVAC company so they do have their own shipping department.

However, not that I don't trust "Bob" even I don't know him but trusting UPS to handle my camera bag is already more than I can bargain for. My stress level suddenly shot through the roof knowing "Bob" will be responsible to box up my bag for UPS. Finally, our friend asked us to guess what's the shipping cost. At first, I guess it would be $40 to $75 range. She said it's not even close. Final cost, a whopping $129. It must be combination of weight of the bag (22 lbs) plus the amount of $$ I want to insure. There is not much I can do at this point. I was a little stun but relief at the same time. At least the bag is on its' way now. My friend did confirm it was shipped to deliver by 10:30am next day and she also gave us the tracking number over the phone so I can track it from Disney.

From that point, I walked out of the gift shop to get some fresh air while DW continue talking with our friend. I wasn't really that upset at the time but I just need to do something to get my mind off the situation. So I kept taking more pictures to relief my frustruation. This time, my subject is light fixture.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Fixture/MK_DSCN0332.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Fixture/MK_DSCN0334.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Fixture/MK_DSCN0336.jpg

When DW came out of the gift shop, she knew I wasn't too happy about the news. But at the same time, she knew I would get over it fast. After all, it is what it is. I have no one to blame but myself. We continue to walk around MK and go for rides only when the line was short. The last ride we took was Space Mountain. That is still my most favorite rollercoaster ride in MK. Glad we were able to ride it before they shut down for rennovation.

I always like the Tomorrowland area with all those futuristic display.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0352.jpg

By 2:00pm, we pretty much done with MK. Since we have no ADR for lunch today, we decide to head back to WL for a snack. We hopped on the boat. Got back to our room and pick up our refillable mug then head over to Roaring Fork for some snack and drink. I had a small bowl of Chicken Noodle soup and DW had a small bowl of chilli.

After we were done with our snack, we just want to sat around the lobby to enjoy the surrounding. Even though this is our second stay at WL, I just love to sit in that lobby and relax. Since we have a dinner 7:15pm ADR at Jiko tonight, we went back upstair to finish our drink to took a rest before heading out for dinner. I went out to the balcony to enjoy the warm weather and took a snooze at the same time.

By 5:00pm, we were super hungry and ready to go. Again, we took a boat ride back to MK and then took the bus from MK to AKL. By the time we arrived AKL, it was barely 6:00pm. so we strolled around the gift shop just to kill some time. After that, we walked through the lobby and head towards the observation area to check out the animal. I am not much of a zoo person, however it is kind of neat to see those animal so up close and personal.

We then walked back into the lobby and sat next to the indoor fire pit just to relax and observe the lobby. IMO, the AKL lobby is equally stunning as WL since it was design by the same architect. However, I still find WL more my kind of taste.

By 6:30pm, we decide to head down to Jiko as least to check-in. The CM told us we shouldn't be wait too long since there are tables available. So we got our pager and step aside. It did not take more than 10 minutes before the pager goes off. Not too bad.

An older gentleman who was our CM came and took our order in no time. Tonight it's another feast for us. DW has Curried Samosas - Crispy pockets with potato, sweet corn and peach chutney as appetizer.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_B_appetizer.jpg
I have Pokanoket Farm Seared Ostrich Filet - Served with creamed sweet potatoes and pomegranate gastrique. (Whatever that is but it was good. LOL...) The ostrich does not taste like what I expected. The texture feels more like red meat than bird.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_P_appetizer.jpg

For main course, DW has Oak-Grilled Filet Mignon - Served with Macaroni & cheese and red wine sauce.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_B_maincourse.jpg
I have the Nantucket Scallops with Butternut Squash Gratin, Apple Slaw and Apple Vinaigrette. The scallops were fantastic. Portion was just right, just enough to satisfy my hunger.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_P_maincourse.jpg

Desert was a little different. DW has the Pistachio Creme Brulee with a Chocolate layered bottom.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_B_desert.jpg
I have the Tanzanian Chocolate Cheesecake served with chocolate ganache, amarula sauce and lavender ice cream.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day2/jiko_D2_P_desert.jpg
This was a little unusual for me since I never even heard of lavender ice cream. It was very good to say the least.

The dinner was just too good for our stomach. Since we were able to finish our dinner early, we decide to bus over and walk around Downtown Disney before we head back to WL. Downtown Disney was a little crowder than I anticipate but it didn't bother us. We strolled through the Christmas shop and a few of the large Disney shop. Not sure what do we want to buy yet but we did found something to bring back for our friends back home. We took a mental note and decide to pick them up some other day.

By the time we got back to our room, we were a little worn but not sleepy. So we took our refillable mug and get some drink one more time before calling the night. DW finally passed out by 11:00pm. I just couldn't sleep until almost 1:00am. It' was a very restless night for me thinking about the bag. :(

[Planning fanatic mom]

Another outstanding post!! The pictures are great as always. Boy, I hope that camera gets there in one piece.

[ccigliano]

$125 - heck you could have bought your camera bag its own airline ticket and seat. Oh well - here's hoping everything shows up safe and sound. Absolutely enjoying your trip report:thumbsup2 . I can't wait to go on my trip but it's not until early December:santa: .

[GreatBiscuit]

Great update Topdog! Love the photos. I have yet to find a setting on my point and shoot to take descent indoor shots. With the flash off, it just doesn't pull in enough light to get the job done. Can't wait to see if the camera arrives in one piece.

[saralexander97]

I sure hope it gets there safe!!!! Great TR, hopefully we get to see pics of your wife. Dinner at Jiko looks fabulous, yummy!

[MadiMouse]

I just found this TR. Very interesting and I look forward to reading more! :)

[loopymommy]

This is such a great trip report, TopDog! Your photos are exquisite. I was so impressed by the pictures of the bronze statues. The angles and perspective and sense of humor really come through. Your pictures of the food at Jiko made me hungry even after a big dinner. I think your photos are as good or better than many postcard photos I've seen from Disney. Maybe there's a way to submit them for consideration.

Your writing is so full of detail and I think you're able to transport your readers right back to Disney with you. Thanks for making such a lovely report. Hope your camera is safely back with you!

[auntiegem]

Great TR! You can make a bowl of soup look like a thing of beauty! I'm definitely subbing this thread . . .

[KeepSwimmingDory]

So we got on “Richard F. Irvine”(not sure how Disney name this ferry) and on our way to MK.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Transportation/DSCN0256.jpg

Again, I just can’t get enough of the boat ride at Disney and I love that light wind on my face feeling.

Next post "the big news"…

Richard Irvine is a Disney Legend (Imagineering). This tells about him.
http://legends.disney.go.com/legends/detail?key=Richard%20Irvine

LOVE the WL early morning pictures of the boat dock and water.

Nice photos from Poly breakfast and gift shops.

$129 :scared1: :scared1:

Great shots of the signs, structures, and lights. I enjoy those very much.

[topdog]

Great pics - everything looks yummy!!

Can't wait for more.
Thank you for stopping by.
Another outstanding post!! The pictures are great as always. Boy, I hope that camera gets there in one piece.
Thanks.
$125 - heck you could have bought your camera bag its own airline ticket and seat. Oh well - here's hoping everything shows up safe and sound. Absolutely enjoying your trip report:thumbsup2 . I can't wait to go on my trip but it's not until early December:santa: .
You are right. My friend said if the shipping cost any more, she could've fly down herself and hand me the camera bag in person. :laughing:
Great update Topdog! Love the photos. I have yet to find a setting on my point and shoot to take descent indoor shots. With the flash off, it just doesn't pull in enough light to get the job done. Can't wait to see if the camera arrives in one piece.

Thanks GB. Yes, shooting with a P&S is very challenging without the flash. I have a few good one and some bad one too. If you look at Day 2 Part 1, my DW's breakfast picture is blurry and her Jiko appetizer picture was way underexpose. It just need some practice to learn the capability of the P&S. In addition, I am also lucky this P&S did came with some degree of manual setting so I can adjust to my liking.

[topdog]

I sure hope it gets there safe!!!! Great TR, hopefully we get to see pics of your wife. Dinner at Jiko looks fabulous, yummy!
Thanks. DW usually is very camera shy but I manage to capture a few. Here is one.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DSCN0345.jpg
I just found this TR. Very interesting and I look forward to reading more! :)
Glad you like my TR and thank you for stopping by.
This is such a great trip report, TopDog! Your photos are exquisite. I was so impressed by the pictures of the bronze statues. The angles and perspective and sense of humor really come through. Your pictures of the food at Jiko made me hungry even after a big dinner. I think your photos are as good or better than many postcard photos I've seen from Disney. Maybe there's a way to submit them for consideration.

Your writing is so full of detail and I think you're able to transport your readers right back to Disney with you. Thanks for making such a lovely report. Hope your camera is safely back with you!
Thank you for the compliment. I really appreciate it. Glad to hear my writing didn't confuse people. My thought process some time is a little scatter brain. :laughing:
Great TR! You can make a bowl of soup look like a thing of beauty! I'm definitely subbing this thread . . .
Glad you like the soup picture. I got quite a few compliment on that particular picture from work.
Richard Irvine is a Disney Legend (Imagineering). This tells about him.
http://legends.disney.go.com/legends/detail?key=Richard%20Irvine

LOVE the WL early morning pictures of the boat dock and water.

Nice photos from Poly breakfast and gift shops.

$129 :scared1: :scared1:

Great shots of the signs, structures, and lights. I enjoy those very much.

KSD, thank you for looking up about Richard Irvine. I knew there must be a story behind that name, very typical of Disney storytelling style.

I think I like that boat dock just as much as the WL lobby and entrance.

Glad you like the pictures. I did took quite a few pictures of those signs, lights and gift shop display. I never even realize how many different looking light fixtures in every park. When I finish this TR, I think I will create a gallery just for those odd pictures.

[Hollywoodhaha]

Excuse me .. but, May I use your photo of the magic kingdom as my MySpace background ? :)

[GoofyFairie]

As always another great post topdog! I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next! You writing is just like readign a novel, I find myself right there with you. I love the pics, you are capturing all the little details that I am missing. My kids are young and they do not want to slow down and let mom look around and take it all in. I do hope the camera arrives in one piece after what you have went through to get it to WDW and the amount of money it cost! So, what happens next?!

[GeminiAngel]

Wonderful story telling! I love your report and I love your photos!
I hope your camera is OK.

[KeepSwimmingDory]

KSD, thank you for looking up about Richard Irvine. I knew there must be a story behind that name, very typical of Disney storytelling style.

I think I like that boat dock just as much as the WL lobby and entrance.

Glad you like the pictures. I did took quite a few pictures of those signs, lights and gift shop display. I never even realize how many different looking light fixtures in every park. When I finish this TR, I think I will create a gallery just for those odd pictures.

Nice picture of your DW. The boats at WDW are my favorite way to get around. My kids always considered them their first ride.

I would LOVE to see a gallery of your "odd" pictures.

Waiting for the next chapter of your adventure. :surfweb:

[topdog]

Excuse me .. but, May I use your photo of the magic kingdom as my MySpace background ? :)

Absolutely! You can use the one I posted here. If you want a different resolution one, PM me what you need and I will sent you another one.

[topdog]

As always another great post topdog! I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next! You writing is just like readign a novel, I find myself right there with you. I love the pics, you are capturing all the little details that I am missing. My kids are young and they do not want to slow down and let mom look around and take it all in. I do hope the camera arrives in one piece after what you have went through to get it to WDW and the amount of money it cost! So, what happens next?!

Wonderful story telling! I love your report and I love your photos!
I hope your camera is OK.

Nice picture of your DW. The boats at WDW are my favorite way to get around. My kids always considered them their first ride.

I would LOVE to see a gallery of your "odd" pictures.

Waiting for the next chapter of your adventure. :surfweb:

Awww...thank you all for the compliment on my writing. You are making me blush. :blush:

I am so glad you all enjoy the adventure with me. DW just received the 40% discount code a couple of days ago. She's already trying to plan for another trip after Thanksgiving. If we do decide to go again, let's hope it will be a lot more relax this time.

[mommyintn]

What a great trip report!! Love the detail and the pictures are great, I love the food pictures too. Can't wait for more. :)

[BellaBaby]

Subscribing....I'm loving the TR and all the great pictures!! :thumbsup2 Keep them coming!!:cool1:

[GoofyFairie]

You lucky dog! I hope you get a second trip with the 40% off!!!! Disney will surely work its magic for you the second time around! :)

[topdog]

Great pics - everything looks yummy!!

Can't wait for more.
Thank you for stopping by.
What a great trip report!! Love the detail and the pictures are great, I love the food pictures too. Can't wait for more. :)
Glad you like the food pictures. I have plenty more.
Subscribing....I'm loving the TR and all the great pictures!! :thumbsup2 Keep them coming!!:cool1:
Thanks you for stopping by.
You lucky dog! I hope you get a second trip with the 40% off!!!! Disney will surely work its magic for you the second time around! :)
We are not 100% sure about the second trip yet. We talked about a few choices. One is the Disney cruise, super expensive. Second is the Adventures by Disney (either Alaska or Wyoming), also expensive. Third, Disney at Hong Kong, beyond super expensive but I get to show DW my home country where I was born and raise. WDW is by far the cheapest.

It's just a thought right now. It really depends how much we can save by this summer. If it work out, I just might have to write a PTR. :)

[MadiMouse]

Well, until your next trip, I am ready to hear more about this one!!:surfweb:

[LiteBrite]

Topdog, I'm really enjoying your TR.

My DH has always carried way more photography equipment than I think is necessary, but he can't compete with your camera bag! :rotfl2: I can just imagine the stress levels he would be experiencing if he left it behind by accident. Add to the mix the fact that he's, how shall I say this - thrifty? cheap? miserly? and I wouldn't even want to be around him once he found out how much the shipping cost! :lmao:

Still, you've gotten some beautiful shots with your wife's camera, and I can't wait to see what you can do once your real equipment arrives.

Also, I love love love breakfast at Kona Cafe! We have to do it at least once every trip. Glad you enjoyed it too.

[topdog]

Well, until your next trip, I am ready to hear more about this one!!:surfweb:
LOL...Yes. I will post soon. :laughing:
Topdog, I'm really enjoying your TR.

My DH has always carried way more photography equipment than I think is necessary, but he can't compete with your camera bag! :rotfl2: I can just imagine the stress levels he would be experiencing if he left it behind by accident. Add to the mix the fact that he's, how shall I say this - thrifty? cheap? miserly? and I wouldn't even want to be around him once he found out how much the shipping cost! :lmao:

Still, you've gotten some beautiful shots with your wife's camera, and I can't wait to see what you can do once your real equipment arrives.

Also, I love love love breakfast at Kona Cafe! We have to do it at least once every trip. Glad you enjoyed it too.
I can certainly relate on how your DH feel. Trust me, I am not happy about the shipping cost either and I am sure I can be just as frugal as your DH also. But after spending all these time, effort and money for the trip and not able to use my equipment to capture those moment, I know I will regret even more if I don't pay the shipping cost.

Even if I choose not to make the effort to ship the camera bag, my wife's camera won't last through the whole trip either. After only shooting the camera for a day and half, battery already running low.

Kona Cafe is definitely the bomb. I had dinner there in 95 and 05. The amount of food I can eat there was incredible. I just can't get over how great the breakfast there either.

[LaurenMic]

Great update as usual! I'm glad to hear you liked Jiko because it's on our list for June. The oak grilled filet with mac n cheese looks amazing.

That is crazy about the UPS cost and your camera! That stinks, but you seem like you took it well considering what a bad situation it was. I hope it arrived in one piece. Either way, you got some great pics of the lights and the signs, cool idea to pick a theme for your pictures. :goodvibes

[topdog]

Great update as usual! I'm glad to hear you liked Jiko because it's on our list for June. The oak grilled filet with mac n cheese looks amazing.

That is crazy about the UPS cost and your camera! That stinks, but you seem like you took it well considering what a bad situation it was. I hope it arrived in one piece. Either way, you got some great pics of the lights and the signs, cool idea to pick a theme for your pictures. :goodvibes

Dinner at Jiko was an absolute joy. While we were having dinner there, there was a young couple who sat next to us. It must be the girlfriend's birthday that night. At the end of their meal, the CM brought in a portable tape recorder/player. It was a message from Mickey wishing the girl a happy birthday. I thought that was pretty nice.

[topdog]

Day #3 (Tuesday) Part 1

Needless to say, I slept very little. By 6am, I couldn't wait to get out of bed. I basically tip toe into the bathroom to take my morning shower and then got dress. Went out with my refillable mug for a morning coffee while DW was still sleeping.

After I got my coffee from Roaring Fork, I walked out to the pool area to take a fresh morning breath. Temperature was still cool, about low 50s. Coming from the single digit weather, this is like heat wave to me. After listening to the waterfall and some occasional quacking, I head back inside the building and went to the lobby for a stroll.

I then saw a man flip open his laptop and start surfing. I was thinking...could it be wifi available in WL?? I asked him point blank. "Sir, Are you surfing on a 3G network or is that wifi from the building?" He reply, "It's wifi but not sure if that was a fluke." He can connect to the network and surf but not sure if that's general available thing. He said he'll just keep using it until some one ask him to get off. I thought I just hit a gold mine since my little Sony UMPC has wireless also.

I hung around until 7am so the conciegra desk is open for business. I asked the CM, an older gentleman, to see if he can search my UPS tracking number and see where is the package. The CM looked up my tracking number and it has been confirm that the package has already arrived Orlando and out for delivery. The CM told me even when the package did indeed get deliver to the Disney complex, it might take another hour or so to route into WL. So at best, in reality, the package won't arrive WL until close to noon. I thought, I can live with that.

I then went back up stair to get DW because we have a breakfast ADR at Grand Floridian Cafe this morning. By the time I got into my room, DW was almost ready. I did say a word about my finding because I was afraid I might jinx it. We were out the door within minutes and go through our morning ritual, boat ride to CR and then monorail over to Grand Floridian Resort. Since ADR is not until 9:00am, we stop at the two gift shop at CR just browsing. Our mission now is to hunt for the Mickey Margarita glass we found in PR gift shop the day before. Unfortunately, there were none in the CR gift shop.

By the time we got to GF, we were way early so we have a lot of time to kill. We browse all we could at the gift shop. Fortunately unfortunately, nothing caught our eyes. So we head to the cafe and there were hardly any one in the restaurant. The CM took us in right away even we were half an hour early. These morning our breakfast is very unusual. (Well, at least mine was.)

First, I must have my Smoothies. A Raspberry one plus coffee. DW only got a coffee.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day3/GFC_D3_P_drink.jpg

For main course, DW has a ham & cheese omelette.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day3/GFC_D3_B_maincourse.jpg
As for me, I decide to have another heavy hitter, Lobster Eggs Benedict - Two poached eggs on Danish bread, lobster and citrus Hollandaise sauce.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day3/GFC_D3_P_maincourse.jpg
Oh My Goodness, I never dream of having lobster for breakfast until I came to Disney. Wow! I don't think I can find another breakfast that can top this one. (Until day 6. You'll just have to wait.) Breakfast this morning was totally out of this world. That certainly took my mind off the camera bag.

We hung around as long as we can after breakfast since we knew we are not going to any park until I see the bag. So we left the cafe and headed back to WL. It was barely after 10:00am. We checked out the WL gift shop and walked around the lobby as long as we can. By 11:00am, even we probably strolled around for good 45 minutes, it really doesn't feel that long. I decided I have to asked the concierge desk to see if the package has arrived. This time, the CM is a tiny girl who stand barely 5 ft tall. To me, that's tiny since I am 6' 2" tall. I told her about the package and see if she can see has it arrived yet. She asked me how big the package was it. I said it about twice the size of a bowling bag and it's a camera bag. Did I also mention it's fairly heavy too? She said, "Let me check." and she went to the back to hunt for the package.

DW and I were waiting...and waiting...and waiting...for a very long long 5 minutes. I was waiting for her to come back and say "sorry, it's not hear yet. Please come back and check for it in an hour." So we wait...and wait...and wait... Finally, the door opened up and she came out with this giantic box that's about as big as her. (Okay! So I exaggerate about the box a little.) She was having a very hard time to lift the box over the counter.

I want to laugh but I stop. I know I probably have that stupid grin on my face though. Not sure is it because I am happy to see the package or watching how this poor girl struggling with such ridiculously large package. She was pretty good sports about it too and I think she probably sense what was in my mind too. Once I check the mailing label and identify that's my package, I thank her profusely and left with the package.

Once we got into the elevator, I thought my chest was going to explode. It was like seeing an old friend after a very long time. I don't even know how to describe it. As soon as we got into our room, I first check the box to see if there is any physical damages. NONE! That's a good start. The box even has this bright RED duct tape wrapped completely around it. I was so excited, I forgot to take picture of the box. That has got to be a major Kodak moment.

When I tried to open the box, I realize I didn't have a knife of any kind to cut it open. So I improvise and use a pen instead to poke a hole on the tape then just rip open the box. As soon as I open the box, I thought, "Bob" was the man.:worship: The box actually was only slightly large than the bag itself, so there were little gap between the bag and the box. Bob stuff all these gap with air bags. The kind you get when you buy things online. The air bags basically cushion the camera bag in the middle of the box. Bob sure did a fantastic job packaging the bag.

All the worry and stress literally vanished within seconds. :jumping1:

I took the camera bag out of the box and every thing seems to be fine. I open it up and took out the equipment one piece at a time. Suddenly, I feel like Christmas in February. I removed the lens cap and making sure none of the glass has any crack. Shutter works fine on the camera. It's like a rock suddenly lift off from my chest. While I was busy opening the box/bag and checking the equipment, DW already on the phone with our friend and gave her the status update. "The eagle has landed safely." Code word for package has been received and everything is fine. Silly us. LOL... Now, I owned our friend a big favor. DW promised our friend I will treat her and her DH dinner when we get back which is no big deal. However, it has to be a Mexican dinner. Oh joy! I am so NOT Mexican dinner kind a guy. But this favor is huge, I'll have to make an exception.

Anyway, I load up the camera with the memory card, put on the lens. Throw in a few lenses into my other medium size camera bag and off to DHS we go. As you can see, I am all suit up with camera in one hand with bag on my shoulder and ready to "SHOOT". Giddy Up!!!
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0377.jpg
I took about 20 shots before we even got onto the bus. Signs, back of a sign, bus stations, benches...I don't even care how they come out as long as I can hear the shutter.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/WL_DIS4615.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/WL_DIS4620.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4627.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4628.jpg
I figure I will make all the adjustment I need when I get to DHS. That shutter sound is like music to my ears right now.:banana:

[Planning fanatic mom]

I am so happy that the camera got there in one piece. :banana:

You look so happy in that picture.

Thanks for the update.

[tiggrbaby]

Hooray! You got the cameras! And what chrisp pics! Can't wait to see more!

[msce2]

WOW!!!! I have NEVER seen such wonderful pics!!!! They are amazingly detailed! No wonder you were so anxious to have it with you! Can't wait to see what's coming up!

[topdog]

I am so happy that the camera got there in one piece. :banana:

You look so happy in that picture.

Thanks for the update.

Hooray! You got the cameras! And what chrisp pics! Can't wait to see more!

WOW!!!! I have NEVER seen such wonderful pics!!!! They are amazingly detailed! No wonder you were so anxious to have it with you! Can't wait to see what's coming up!
Thank you every one. The adventure is not over yet. This is just the beginning!!

[mommyintn]

Wow the clarity of those pictures are great!! Can't wait to see the rest of your pictures. That lobster eggs benedict looked great, I might need to check that out when we are there. Was that at the Contemporary? Love the smoothies too. Glad your camera arrived alright!

[topdog]

Wow the clarity of those pictures are great!! Can't wait to see the rest of your pictures. That lobster eggs benedict looked great, I might need to check that out when we are there. Was that at the Contemporary? Love the smoothies too. Glad your camera arrived alright!

Thanks. There will plenty more pictures. I had the lobster eggs benedict at Grand Floridian Cafe. That breakfast was awesome!

[GeminiAngel]

How fantastic!! I was here with the anticipation mounting. I couldn't wait for you to open the box! I immediately thought to myself, how is he going to open it? :rotfl:

[2BOYMOM]

I was so happy to see that you have posted more! I am truly enjoying your TR and your awesome pictures! I was soooo happy to see you got your camera equipment! Thanks for the pic of DW too. I love seeing what people look like when I'm reading TRs. Oh, the Lobster Benedict looked wonderful.....

[ccigliano]

So glad the eagle landed safe and sound. I am really enjoying the report. Thanks for taking the time to do it.

[MadiMouse]

Yay! We have our camera....oops, see how excited I am. I mean you have your camera!!!! :rotfl:

[auntiegem]

I took about 20 shots before we even got onto the bus. Signs, back of a sign, bus stations, benches...I don't even care how they come out as long as I can hear the shutter.


I busted out laughing at that one!!! :laughing:

Keep the reports coming--this is too much fun.

[flipflopmom]

Even if you wrote in Chinese I would follow along just for the pics!!!!popcorn::

[kjh73]

I'm so glad that your camera bag arrived safe and sound!! What amazing pictures!!

[MICKEY4EVER!]

Oh, my. Those pictures of the Wilderness bring back such fond memories for me. We were there this time last year and in November 2006. We're not staying there when we go this time - off to Saratoga Springs, which I hear is AWESOME! But, there's no place like home:love: , and I will miss the Villas terribly! Thanks for the pics and the TR - I have enjoyed it very much so far!

Keep the pics coming, they're wonderful.

[NLD]

Hi TopDog,

Love your TR. Soooo glad to hear your camera and gear arrived safely. I have just started into the world of photography and I know I'd be sooo upset if I forgot my D60 on a trip like that, so I can only imagine how you felt, having been doing photography for 30 years! Must have been so stressful.

You have a nice eye for angles. Was very impressed with the bronze statue pictures from MK--the one of Goofy especially, it looked like he was hunting for the castle which was just out of sight behind the planter. Very whimsical and humorous, loved it!

And your food pictures are making it hard to decide what ADRs to make for our upcoming (first) trip! :rotfl: Was all set on Boma but those Jiko pics are making me want to go there! Just not sure dd will sit through a meal at Jiko. Did your wife like the curried samosas? I am positively drooling over those.

Can't wait to read the rest of your TR!

[GoofyFairie]

Woo Hoo! The eagle has landed safely! :yay: I can't wait to see the pics you post now with this awesome tr! I keep waiting for the next post to arrive! I must say I am going to have get some smoothies when I get to Disney again. Those look delicious! What adventures await you in DHS? popcorn::

[saralexander97]

Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Im sooo glad your eagle has landed. Can't wait to hear more about your trip and see more of your pics. It gets me excited about my upcoming trip.

[topdog]

How fantastic!! I was here with the anticipation mounting. I couldn't wait for you to open the box! I immediately thought to myself, how is he going to open it? :rotfl:
LOL...I didn't realize how unprepare I was until I start looking for something to open the box. What a goofball I was!
I was so happy to see that you have posted more! I am truly enjoying your TR and your awesome pictures! I was soooo happy to see you got your camera equipment! Thanks for the pic of DW too. I love seeing what people look like when I'm reading TRs. Oh, the Lobster Benedict looked wonderful.....
I am so glad you like my TR. I don't think I have ever written so much in my life, not even when I was in college. :laughing:
So glad the eagle landed safe and sound. I am really enjoying the report. Thanks for taking the time to do it.
Thank you and glad you enjoy the TR. There are plenty more to write.
Yay! We have our camera....oops, see how excited I am. I mean you have your camera!!!! :rotfl:
Ha! Ha! I am so happy you got excited. That means my write isn't all that bad.
I busted out laughing at that one!!! :laughing:

Keep the reports coming--this is too much fun.
Glad you like the report. I have a lot more to write.
Even if you wrote in Chinese I would follow along just for the pics!!!!popcorn::
Believe it or not, I can write the TR in Chinese but that would take years to write. I already learn how to type Chinese on computer. It is super difficult. I have plenty more pictures. Stay tune...
I'm so glad that your camera bag arrived safe and sound!! What amazing pictures!!
Thank you. Glad you like the pictures.
Oh, my. Those pictures of the Wilderness bring back such fond memories for me. We were there this time last year and in November 2006. We're not staying there when we go this time - off to Saratoga Springs, which I hear is AWESOME! But, there's no place like home:love: , and I will miss the Villas terribly! Thanks for the pics and the TR - I have enjoyed it very much so far!

Keep the pics coming, they're wonderful.
Glad you like the TR and the pictures. I went for a DVC tour 3.5 years ago and it was at Saratoga Spring. It was a very nice place indeed. I am sure you will enjoy it just as much as WL.
Hi TopDog,

Love your TR. Soooo glad to hear your camera and gear arrived safely. I have just started into the world of photography and I know I'd be sooo upset if I forgot my D60 on a trip like that, so I can only imagine how you felt, having been doing photography for 30 years! Must have been so stressful.

You have a nice eye for angles. Was very impressed with the bronze statue pictures from MK--the one of Goofy especially, it looked like he was hunting for the castle which was just out of sight behind the planter. Very whimsical and humorous, loved it!

And your food pictures are making it hard to decide what ADRs to make for our upcoming (first) trip! :rotfl: Was all set on Boma but those Jiko pics are making me want to go there! Just not sure dd will sit through a meal at Jiko. Did your wife like the curried samosas? I am positively drooling over those.

Can't wait to read the rest of your TR!
I am so happy you like the bronze statue pictures. I did spend some time to study the size and location of the statue before I decide which angle works. I hopped around all over each statue before I take the shot. When some one was standing near the statue, I would just stand there and wait until he/she move away then take the shot. People around me thought I was a nut case. I like to create a picture that tells a little story. What really surprise me was how small these statues are. When I saw other people post them, for some reason I thought they were like life size.

Jiko was very impressive. This was our second time to eat there. DW absolutely love the curried samosas. I am glad we are not wine drinker. Jiko also has a very serious wine collection there as well.

I am sure you will have a great time for your first trip. If you continue to follow this TR, you will see more food pictures from all the restaurants we went to.
Woo Hoo! The eagle has landed safely! :yay: I can't wait to see the pics you post now with this awesome tr! I keep waiting for the next post to arrive! I must say I am going to have get some smoothies when I get to Disney again. Those look delicious! What adventures await you in DHS? popcorn::
Thank your GF. I have already processed a few hundred pictures. :eek: :eek: I can only post a fraction of them through out this report but I will create a gallery on my website when this TR is finish. You will just have to wait a little longer for the whole suite.

Yes. Those smoothies are very addicting. Each restaurant make them a little different too. It was a pleasant surprise every time I order it.

You will have to keep reading this TR to see what other adventure I went through. It's not over until I say it's over. :rolleyes1
Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Im sooo glad your eagle has landed. Can't wait to hear more about your trip and see more of your pics. It gets me excited about my upcoming trip.
Thank you Sara. I am sure you will enjoy your upcoming trip. Hopefully, it won't be as stressful as mine. I have plenty more to write with lots and lots of pictures.

[GreatBiscuit]

I'm so happy you got the camera bag! Love the shots so far. Can't wait to see how you put your gear to use!.

[topdog]

I just want to post a quick update.

While I am writing Day 3 part 2 of my TR, I was processing the photos at the same time. My DW, friends and family have been bugging me about when am I going to publish the photos. So I did a quick count on how many photos I have to go through. It's a whopping over 3,500 pictures. :scared1: It took over 24 GB of storage space. :scared1: :scared1: And that's between all the shots myself and DW have taken. Can you imagine if I have my camera bag from the beginning. My estimate will be well over 5,000 pictures.

In any event, I have processed probably over 300 pictures and I am only half way through. (I think by the time I finish, it should be somewhere about 6 to 700 pictures I consider it's good to publish.) Adding to the mix, I have create a website gallery dedicate to all the pictures too. I have absolutely no experience on how to develop a website so I am trying to make it as simple as it can be. I am hoping it will be up and running in a day or two and I will post a link in my signature. Please don't laugh when you see my band-aid website gallery. It's the best I can do right now. :rolleyes1

[GoofyFairie]

I can't wait to see it! I am sure it will be awesome!!!!!! popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[MadiMouse]

I'm sure it will be very nice. I cannot wait to see it! :)

[Planning fanatic mom]

WOW how ambitious!!

Sounds great.

Can't Wait!:surfweb:

[topdog]

Day #3 (Tuesday) Part 2

Weather has begun to warm up by the time we left WL @ about noon. Temperature was already in the mid 70s but cloudy. By the time we got to the WL bus station, it was barely 11:15am. We managed to arrived DHS before noon. The bus must be running in high gear that morning. The park wasn't too crowd. There was some kind of High School Musical 3 concert going on in the park making a lot of noise but I am not a bit interest. It's just not my thing.

DW and I do the usual at DHS. First, we headed right to TOT.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0379.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS4639.jpg
DW was the one on the bottom right.

TOT is DW favorite ride. There was no line when we got ther. The sign did said 15 minutes waiting time. What a lie!! :) We walked up and got in immediately. We walked through the queue line so fast, I didn't have a chance to stop and take any pictures at all. :mad: By the time we came down, it took maybe 20 minutes at the most. We took longer bus ride from WL to DHS than waiting at TOT.

Second ride, RRC. When we got there, the CM told us the ride is currently down so they won't take anymore rider. Bummer!! Of course RRC is my favorite ride and it has to be down. So we left and thought we will come back later. Not sure what we want to do next, we just stroll through all the gift shop, food store and watch some comedy act on the main street. Obviously, my camera just kept on shooting anything and everything in sight.

I got the feeling, somebody is watching me.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4729.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4733.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4735.jpg

This guy was hysterical. I am not sure what he was doing but he was staring at me the whole time.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4673.jpg

A cartoonist hard at work.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4655.jpg

We spend some time to hunt for what we were looking for but yet, still didn't buy anything. After a brief shopping/hunting, we began to walk back to RRC. This time, the ride is open and we were able to hopped on within 15 minutes or so. It was a breeze.

It just blow my mind every time when the ride begins, from 0 to 60+ mph in such short amount of time. I just can't get enough of the speed.

Because we got through two major rides so quickly, we just want to walk around to observe and slow down our pace. Of course when we got to Streets of America, I have to take some silly pictures since I am not the only one who has a camera now.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0386.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0383.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0384.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0387.jpg
Courtesy of my DW as photographer.

Then when we walked pass Star Tours, I have to drag my DW for the ride. She wasn't quite remember how that ride works since it has been a while we rode Star Tours. Nonetheless, DW did have a good time when she got off the ride.

I kid you not. Those simulation ride always give me a neck pain afterward. More so than any rollercoaster ride.

While we were inside the Star Tour waiting line, I began to experiment the low light shooting method. Tried a couple of shot and thought I had it but it turn out to be a dud. I still have a lot to learn.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4688.jpg

After Star Tours, we just kept walking in circle. We went back to Streets of America for a bit and then I found this rusty tow truck kept staring at me. I wonder why??
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4696.jpg

Finally, we end up going into the animation studio. It's always fun to see how those animation interactive presentation works. Again, my camera did not take a break.
More low light shooting.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4712.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4713.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4717.jpg

Toward the ends is always my favorite also, more gift shop. I was doing everything I can not to buy anything. I just love those Disney collectible figurines. Too bad they are so darn expensive. I can look but I just can't buy. LOL... As least now I can take picture of them for me to remember them.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4722.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4723.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4724.jpg

[topdog]

Day #3 (Tuesday) Part 3

By now, we are hungry. There was no ADR for lunch today. Since we did reserve a few dining point for dine on a fly, we were pretty much can go wherever we like. So we decide to walk to the closest restaurant and see if they will accept walk in without to much waiting time. This is the one we end up with.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/50sptc.jpg

It's our first time to come to this place. I can hardly called it a crowd because we were able to be seated with in 10 minutes even without ADR. Once we sat down at our table, I was taking picture at every corner I can find. The CMs who served other tables were yelling "WATCH OUT FOR THE PAPARAZZI!!!" Every one at the restaurant were staring at me like I have a third arm growing out of my head or something.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4745.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4755.jpg

I guess I better sit down and read the menu. The CM who served us was a super nice lady. Well...until she caught me taking pictures of the food. (More on that later.)

Again, another raspberry smoothie for me and an ice-tea for DW.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_P_drink.jpg
This time, I decided to lay low on the red meat, so I had a shrimp cocktail for appetizer.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_P_appetizer.jpg
and DW had a Blue Claw Crab Cake - lump crab cake served in succotash with chili sauce and crispy onions.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_B_appetizer.jpg

Main couse, I had the Grandma's Chicken Pot Pie - A creamy cheese mixture of chicken, mushrooms, carrots, celery, onions, peas and topped with a flaky pastry. Hmmm...delicious.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_P_maincourse.jpg
DW had a boring Caesar Salad with Chicken - Romaine lettuce tossed with caesar dressing, grated parmesan cheese and garlic croutons topped with sliced grilled chicken. This time, DW won't let me take picture of her food because it's only a Caesar Salad. Oh well!!!

For desert, I had the Grandma's Bread Pudding - Warm bread pudding with vanilla sauce. Ouch!!! This thing was HEAVY!!!
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_P_desert.jpg
DW had the Angel Food Cake - served with fresh berries and whipped cream.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day3/50PTC_D3_B_desert.jpg

When our CM brought over our desert, I whipped out my camera and ready to set up the shot. The CM said to me in a very stern tone, "Just what do you think you are doing with the food?" I said, "I am taking a picture of my food." Then my DW has to chime in with a very displease tone, "He took pictures of all the food we eat at every meal."

I was thinking. "Oh great!" Two against one now. The CM continues, "Well, if you are going to take picture of the food, you need to do it the right way." She hopped over next to my DW and present the desert like in a commercial. I almost floored it when I saw her did that. I laughed so hard, I think the whole restaurant was wondering what's going on back there.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS4753.jpg

The food there was great. Not the best but great. The atmosphere was awesome. Will I go back there again?? Absolutely!!! Just the nostalgic decoration plus the CM fun attitude were enough to lure me back.

It's only about 3:30 when we walked out of the 50'sPTC. We need to walk our food off but we also had enough of DHS for the day. So we stop at One of a Kind Antiques and Curios for some browsing.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/DHS/_DIS4763.jpg
I am always fascinating by those old pictures. (I wonder why??) Now only if the pictures I have taken can be worth that much to sell. I can afford to live inside of Disney!!
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4758.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4759.jpg

Would you pay $60,000 for a suit that was used in Mary Poppins??
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/DHS_DIS4760.jpg

[topdog]

Day #3 (Tuesday) Part 4

By 4:00pm, we left DHS but we are not ready to go back to WL yet. We do have an ADR at Ohana' at 8:00pm tonight. So we decided to pick one of the resort we've never been at and go check it out. We picked POP Century. It was quite a far from DHS to POP. I guess I was spoiled from staying at WL for being so close to everything. We only stop by the POP Century lobby and check out their gift shop.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/POP/Inside/_DIS4774.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/POP_DIS4778.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/POP_DIS4777.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Display/POP_DIS4776.jpg

Then we went to check out the pool. It was quite a different theme compare to WL. Of course, I did my silly picture again.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0388.jpg

We walked around at POP as much as we possibly could. We decided to go to MK instead. We hopped on the bus and MK here we go. Once we got to MK, the sun was about to set and I ran down main street to re-take another sunset castle picture.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4787.jpg
Too bad the sky was too cloudy.

After that, we headed back through main street and went for a short train ride. When we rode the train on Monday, it got too dark too fast. This time, we got to see where we were passing.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4790.jpg
We got off at the Toontown area and walked toward the back of the castle area because I want some pictures with different perspective of the castle.

I put on my fisheye lens and try from a different angle. Don't know if I have achieve or not but I did some how turn the Cinderella Castle into more of a haunted castle, especially the first one.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4806.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4810.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4813.jpg
It wasn't easy shooting these pictures. I stood under the castle facing away from the castle and then bend over backward to get the angle. My DW told me people around me were looking at me like I was an alien. I guess it's not every day you see a 6 foot Asian taking picture in such odd position.

After that, I switch back to my normal wide angle lens and also put on a cross wire filter, just to switch things up a bit. The filter did create a nice sparkle look.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4814.jpg
I kept switching with different set up to see how it work out for a good hour until the sky went completely dark.
Here is another spooky one.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4820.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4829.jpg
Here is a wild looking one.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4837.jpg

Here are some not so good ones.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4848.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/_DIS4849.jpg

Even DW was getting into the photography mood. She was determine to get a good shot on the castle water reflection. Even with only a P&S and no tripod, she did fairly well. These shots are her own creation only. Not bad for a beginner.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0392.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0395.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0406.jpg
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0402.jpg

This is the very first time my DW and I were doing photography together. It was quite fun. Every time DW feels like she find the right angle, she would get all excited and yelled across the park to ask me come over. Of course I also have to coach DW some of the photography terminology along the way like what's ISO, what is noise and how it gets there or how to get a better perspective of the subject. Obviously, DW is not going to learn every thing about photography in 5 minutes. But at least now she somewhat understand what it takes to get a good shot. More importantly, she learned how I see the world frame by frame.

[Sandy321]

well you got me!! I had to read your trip report - and I think there is something about computer geeks - or photographer geeks - or nerds... (its a good thing!!) (my dh obsesses about some of the littlest techno things!! and I can just imagine how he would've felt if he had lost his bag - exactly the same way you reacted!!)

LOVE your DW photos of the castle - love the pictures you got at Prime Time - so much fun, I felt like I was in the next booth over!!

thanks for sharing...

3,000+ pictures??!!! :faint: good luck with that! (I have 1200 - most are disney!)

[topdog]

I can't wait to see it! I am sure it will be awesome!!!!!! popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

I'm sure it will be very nice. I cannot wait to see it! :)

WOW how ambitious!!

Sounds great.

Can't Wait!:surfweb:

I'm so happy you got the camera bag! Love the shots so far. Can't wait to see how you put your gear to use!.

That's a lot of pressure there. Hope I won't disappoint you. :scared:

[topdog]

well you got me!! I had to read your trip report - and I think there is something about computer geeks - or photographer geeks - or nerds... (its a good thing!!) (my dh obsesses about some of the littlest techno things!! and I can just imagine how he would've felt if he had lost his bag - exactly the same way you reacted!!)

LOVE your DW photos of the castle - love the pictures you got at Prime Time - so much fun, I felt like I was in the next booth over!!

thanks for sharing...

3,000+ pictures??!!! :faint: good luck with that! (I have 1200 - most are disney!)

Sandy, So glad you join us for the ride. Thank you for the compliment on DW's picture. When she hover behind me to watch me process the pictures, she kept asking, "Did I took that picture?" Even the one she knew I took it. LOL...

Prime Time cafe was great. I would go back there on a heart beat.

I average between 2,000 to 4,000 each trip. Soon, I will need a new camera. :laughing: If I didn't missed my camera for 2 days, I probably would've taken well above 5,000 pictures. :eek:

[topdog]

Day #3 (Tuesday) Part 5

Then by 7:00pm, we are ready for dinner ADR at 'Ohana. Reservation was at 8:00pm. So we took the monorail and head to PR.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/ohana.jpg

'Ohana was packed with people. DW check in as soon as we got there. Since we got there early, the CM told DW they will try to get us a window seat so we can have a view of "Wishes". Unfortunately, they couldn't seat us until 8:10pm. All we got was the last 30 seconds of "Wishes". Oh well! It was still impressive though.

If I remember correctly, this is our first time to dine at 'Ohana. I did not know it's a buffet dinner until we sat down. Side note, I am not a buffet fan specifically Chinese buffet. Maybe because I have worked as a waiter in a Chinese restaurant for 5 years might have something to do with it. However, since this is a Disney restaurant, I am willing to try it first before forming my opinion.

The nice CM came and took our drink order then explain how the buffet thing work. All their main course were prepared over the open oak fire grill in the middle of the dinning room.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/OhanaKitchen.jpg
They will keep bringing food to us until we say stop. So let the feast begin.

First appetizer, Pork fried dumplings. Dumplings are my speciality. I had eaten dumplings from Hong Kong all the way to U.S. These dumplings are okay. Not great but still very good. Much better than some of the dives I have tried it.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_appetizer1.jpg

Second appetizer, Corriander chicken wings. WOW!!! These are great wings. It's not spicy but they are excellent. Not too sweet yet very tasty.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_appetizer2.jpg

Then there's mixed greens salad with honey-lime dressing also. I remember eating it but forgot to take picture. Sorry, I was hungry.

Main course next. Marinated sirlon steak. The meat was very tender and quite tasty. 2 years ago, when I was at Aruba. We went to some kind of a Brazilian Steak House once that had a similar set up. Their meat wasn't quite as good as Ohana.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_maincourse2.jpg

Another main course, the non-peeled shrimp. The sauce on these shrimp is the bomb. It was sweet, tangy and spicy all at the same time. I have to ask the CM to bring back more twice. I can't get enough of them.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_maincourse1.jpg

Then there are BBQ pork loin & Mesquite grilled turkey as well. I think I did eat the pork loin but can't remember what it taste like. I was too busy focus on chowing down the steak and the shrimp. I am also not a turkey fan but DW did tried some and she did like it a lot. The CM tried very hard to convince me to have the turkey but I just can't do it. At least not with all these steak and shrimp in front of me.

In the mix with these food, the CM also brought in other side dish. Broccoli and green peas.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_side2.jpg
Pad Thai noodles.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_side1.jpg

Both were very good too. Although the noodles do remind me of lo mein from a Chinese take out.

After about half an hour of non stop eating, I finally have to stop. There's just no more room in our stomach. At least that's what I thought until the CM brought over the desert.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/oh_D3_desert.jpg
I don't know how but we manage to "squeeze" that in and it was gooood!!!

After dinner, we were worn. I realize how much we have done today. As soon as we left 'Ohana, we just want to go back to our room. We took the monorail back to MK and then the boat ride back to WL. The boat ride tonight was a little too cool for me. I was shaking through out the ride. We couldn't wait for the boat to dock.

Once we got back to our room, we took a hot shower and then went to bed immediately. After hardly any sleep for 3 nights in a row, I went out like a light by 10:30pm. Finally, I can get a good night sleep without worry about the camera bag any more.

[GeminiAngel]

I love your pictures of the castle. It was nice to see Cinderella's castle from an eerie perspective. You had me cracking up when you described that you were bending over backwards to take the shots. :rotfl:

O'Hana is our #1 restaurant! We just love it!

Again, a great update and wonderful pictures.

[msce2]

I absolutely love the pictures of Cinderella's Castle!!!! :worship:

Thank you for your reviews and pics of the restaurants as well. I have never seen the 50's Primetime Diner. I would go just for the ambiance.

Your DW did an awesome job with the castle and the reflection in the water!

Thank you!!!!

[MICKEY4EVER!]

I'm absolutely riveted by your trip report. You sound like a lot of fun! Love your descriptions of yourself and others as you take pics from odd positions.
You're too funny!:rotfl:

[GoofyFairie]

Another great day topdog! :woohoo: I can't tell you how much I look forward to reading each post of your trip report! You make me feel like I am there and so excited to return! The pictures are wonderful-so full of color and such variety. Tell your DW she did an excellent job on the castle with the water-it is beautiful. There are so many shots I want to take with my p&s, but my kids don't want to cooperate; they just want to play as all children do. Can't wait to see what is next! popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[saralexander97]

Ohana's looks awesome, I just made dinner reservations for our upcoming trip two days ago. Looking at your pics of the food made me hungry, cannot wait to eat those shrimp. As soon as I read your TR I called my DH :cool1: to tell him about the food. Cant wait to hear more.

[piglet50]

love your report and the great pictures. thank you for sharing your trip.

[PrncessA]

You hooked me from the first post, LOL. Great pics of the castle, it is a spooky look. Great TR!

[iluvpluto27]

I'm really enjoying your trip report. Your photos are fantastic, some of the castle shots were simply stunning.

[topdog]

I love your pictures of the castle. It was nice to see Cinderella's castle from an eerie perspective. You had me cracking up when you described that you were bending over backwards to take the shots. :rotfl:

O'Hana is our #1 restaurant! We just love it!

Again, a great update and wonderful pictures.
Thanks. What I would do to get a good creative picture. LOL....

I love Ohana. It's a must for us now.

I absolutely love the pictures of Cinderella's Castle!!!! :worship:

Thank you for your reviews and pics of the restaurants as well. I have never seen the 50's Primetime Diner. I would go just for the ambiance.

Your DW did an awesome job with the castle and the reflection in the water!

Thank you!!!!
So glad you like the castle pictures. I was afraid some people might get offend it since it suppose to be a fairytale.

The whole package of the 50sPTC was just wonderful. I am sure you will enjoy it.

I will relay your compliment to my DW.

I'm absolutely riveted by your trip report. You sound like a lot of fun! Love your descriptions of yourself and others as you take pics from odd positions.
You're too funny!:rotfl:
Thanks for reading and welcome for the ride. Some time, I feel like a contortionist when I take pictures. LOL...

Another great day topdog! :woohoo: I can't tell you how much I look forward to reading each post of your trip report! You make me feel like I am there and so excited to return! The pictures are wonderful-so full of color and such variety. Tell your DW she did an excellent job on the castle with the water-it is beautiful. There are so many shots I want to take with my p&s, but my kids don't want to cooperate; they just want to play as all children do. Can't wait to see what is next! popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::
I am so glad you enjoy my TR. Initially, I posted one big post for Day #3 Part 2. Then I find out the system does not allow me to post so many pictures all in one post. That's why I break them apart. You only see a fraction on what I had so far. There are a lot more pictures when I have my 2009 Disney trip website up and running.

I will relay your compliment to my DW. I am sure her head won't be able to fit through the door way. :laughing: She was inspired by my first day water reflection picture. Even since, she was determine to try it on her own. So glad she was able to have a few. Hardest part was waiting for the water to settle. If wind was strong and ducks were swimming, then you might as well forget it.

[topdog]

I'm really enjoying your trip report. Your photos are fantastic, some of the castle shots were simply stunning.
Glad you like the castle pictures and welcome to the ride.

You hooked me from the first post, LOL. Great pics of the castle, it is a spooky look. Great TR!
Thank you for the compliment. Now my head might not fit through the door way. LOL...
Ohana's looks awesome, I just made dinner reservations for our upcoming trip two days ago. Looking at your pics of the food made me hungry, cannot wait to eat those shrimp. As soon as I read your TR I called my DH :cool1: to tell him about the food. Cant wait to hear more.
I am sure you and your DH will enjoy Ohana just as much as we did.

[topdog]

I had a few PM asking me about when I will have my 2009 Disney trip publish.

I am not sure exactly what my plan is. But due to the amount of picture I have taken, it does take a great deal of time to process and orgranize before I can create the website. I will do my best to take care the pictures as quickly as I can while I am writing this TR.

In the mean time, I just post my 2005 Disney picture link in my signature. I never finish this site and it's a very simple site. Nothing fancy. It does has a lot of pictures in it. Please feel free to browse. I still might add a picture here and there.

You can either put comment of my 2005 picture in this TR or PM me anytime.

[Planning fanatic mom]

We love 50s PTC. We are going back again this summer. We also going to try O'hana for the first time. Can't wait especially after seeing your pictures. I love all of your pics.

Thanks for sharing.

[joleen76]

I'm so glad you were able to get your gear sent to you. Your pictures are wonderful!

[karen l]

Your report & pics are fantastic! I feel like I'm at WDW every time I read your posts. Your restaurant pics really make me hungry!

[MadiMouse]

Wow! Great updates! I absolutely love the "haunted" castle pics!!! Your poses in DHS were very funny! I love your sense of humor.:lmao:

[topdog]

We love 50s PTC. We are going back again this summer. We also going to try O'hana for the first time. Can't wait especially after seeing your pictures. I love all of your pics.

Thanks for sharing.
Glad you like the pictures. I am sure you will like Ohana like we did.
I'm so glad you were able to get your gear sent to you. Your pictures are wonderful!
Thank you for the kind word. Glad you like the pictures.
Your report & pics are fantastic! I feel like I'm at WDW every time I read your posts. Your restaurant pics really make me hungry!
So glad you like my writing and pictures. There are plenty more on its' way.
Wow! Great updates! I absolutely love the "haunted" castle pics!!! Your poses in DHS were very funny! I love your sense of humor.:lmao:
Glad you like the haunted pictures and my humor.

[topdog]

I almost forgot to give the credit to my friend. If you go to my 2005 WL pictures website, towards to the end of the Disney Characters pictures category, the woman in black hair was our friend who send me the camera bag. Her DH and us, we all went to WDW together in 2005 for 10 whole days. :yay:

[mejkjj97]

Can I ask, what kind of camera do you have? From the picture I know it's a Nikon but which one exactly. i was showing my husband your pictures and he is exploring getting a new camera and taking some classes on photography. So he is looking for ideas for different people.

I can't wait to see rest.

[GreatBiscuit]

Those my friend are some mighty fine shots! And that you bent over backwards to make them? Well that just the sign of a true pro. :3dglasses Loved the update! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. 3500 pics? Holy Cow!...That's a lot of sorting and filing right there! Speaking of cows, those O'Hanna pics looked mighty tasty. Can't wait to eat there this summer. Good choice on sticking with Beef and Shrimp. :thumbsup2

[topdog]

Can I ask, what kind of camera do you have? From the picture I know it's a Nikon but which one exactly. i was showing my husband your pictures and he is exploring getting a new camera and taking some classes on photography. So he is looking for ideas for different people.

I can't wait to see rest.
Thank you Kim for stopping by.

The camera I use is a Nikon D200. The camera is already 2 years old. By today's standard, it's already obsolete. However, you might still able to find it online for about $7-800 for the body. The latest model is D300. It's some where around $1,800 for the body. Lens is a whole different story. I mainly use 35mm and a 50mm. They are between $300 to $400 range each.

Taking photography is a good start. I personally like to just go out and shoot and learn from trial and error. Even I have been doing photography for a very long time, I only switch to complete digital for about 5 years. It's a whole new learning experience. Having computer software experience for 15 years certainly help too.
Those my friend are some mighty fine shots! And that you bent over backwards to make them? Well that just the sign of a true pro. :3dglasses Loved the update! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. 3500 pics? Holy Cow!...That's a lot of sorting and filing right there! Speaking of cows, those O'Hanna pics looked mighty tasty. Can't wait to eat there this summer. Good choice on sticking with Beef and Shrimp. :thumbsup2
Hi GreatBiscuit. Glad you like the pictures. Yes! Even with 3,500 pictures, I would only consider 50% of them processable. About 10 to 15% is good enough to publish. That's still about 300 to 500 pictures to be process. Each files can take between 5 to 10 minutes to process and adjust. You do the match.:eek:

You are going to love Ohana. Those shrimps are the best. The best Jerry...the best. :laughing:

[tiggrbaby]

Wow what beautiful pics! And I agree that those restaurant are do-agains!


More-more-more!(please)

[topdog]

Yay!! Another new reader.

I will update and post more picture as soon as I can.

[nutz2notz]

I am really enjoying your report and love, love, love your pictures. Absolutely beautiful!

Look forward to your next postings. :surfweb:

[GeminiAngel]

Just stopping by to say hi! Can't wait for more

[LaurenMic]

Great update as usual topdog!! Your pictures are amazing. It's great that you are teaching DW too! Sounds like you had a great time. What was the dessert at O'hanas? It all looks sooo good! Even your food pictures are a work of art!!

[topdog]

I am really enjoying your report and love, love, love your pictures. Absolutely beautiful!

Look forward to your next postings. :surfweb:
Glad you like the report. I should have some more soon.
Just stopping by to say hi! Can't wait for more
Hi back to you. There will be more soon.
Great update as usual topdog!! Your pictures are amazing. It's great that you are teaching DW too! Sounds like you had a great time. What was the dessert at O'hanas? It all looks sooo good! Even your food pictures are a work of art!!
Thanks!!
As for Ohana's desert. Opps! I forgot the description. It's bread pudding a la mode with Banana foster sauce. Yummmm...
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Dinner/Day3/desert.jpg

[MadiMouse]

Okay, I'm waiting!!!!!!!!!!!:rolleyes1

:yay:

[topdog]

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 1

I thought I have a good night sleep and actually, I did. However, I still ends up woke up before 6:00am. Sun hasn't even risen yet. I got off the bed as quietly as possible so I wouldn't wake up my DW. I grabbed my camera bag and tripod. Slowly tip toe out the room.

Sky was clear but dark. Moon was shining for miles. Sun has not rise yet. Air temperature was in the high 50s. Not a soul was in the parameter. I quickly set up my camera/tripod by the pool area aiming towards the resort. That proves to be quite a challenge. High voltage spot lights were shining towards me. I was able to capture a few shots that I would consider somewhat acceptable.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4925.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4928.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4933.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4937.jpg

After spending approximately 30 minute of shooting and setup changes, I can sense the sun was about to rise any moment. It's time to relocate and find a different location. This time, I headed to the boat dock. I quickly set everything up as fast as I can while the sunlight has already begun to peep through the horizon slowly but surely. There was no wind. The morning brisk air gave me a jolt of enery. It felt like the entire universe was in serenity. The lagoon water looked more like mirror without any wave. I can clearly see the perfect water reflection between the land and the water. A few shot of this perfect set up is in order here.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4951.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4956.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4957.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4960.jpg

I was a bit surprise how this turn out. All I can see was a tiny bit of sunlight just about to shine through. I really thought I was in a different dimension. I shot as many as I can before I gather my gear and headed back to the resort.

As soon as I got inside the building, the hallway was empty. I got another quick shot.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/_DIS4973.jpg

I then move on to the lobby afterward. I took a few more shot before I went back to the room. Unfortunately, the lobby just doesn't have enough light to get a great shot. This is the best I can do.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/_DIS4977.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/_DIS4981.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Inside/_DIS4984.jpg

When I got back to the room, DW was up and ready to go. We have ADR at Chef Mickey's for breakfast @ 7:30am this morning. So we left as soon as I walked into the room and headed back to the boat dock. What a different 30 minutes make. By the time we got to the boat dock, sun was already as bright and strong as it can be.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS4995.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/WL/Outside/_DIS5014.jpg

What a great view to the brand new Bay Lake resort from the boat ride. The bright warm sunrise really gave the buildings a beautiful glow.
http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Outside/_DIS5022.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Outside/_DIS5038.jpg

[Sandy321]

absolutely gorgeous pictures -

thank you for sharing them!!

(now I know why you have 5,000+ pics!)

[GeminiAngel]

You are the Master. :worship:

Those are some of the most beautiful sunrise pictures I've ever seen. The colors just blend together.

All I can say is WOW!

[GoofyFairie]

Once again you do not disappoint! I love the orange you were able to capture of the sunrise on the water. It is just beautiful reflecting off of the blue. The lobby bridge is nicely done too. My indoor Lodge pics are always very dark or black, that was beautiful! Your photos are raising my level of excitement for a return trip and what I want to capture with my camera. I don't sleep much in Disney- there is way too much to do and enjoy so the next time I am going to sneak out while everyone else is asleep and enjoy the sunrise.
Now, what's for breakfast? I can't wait to see the photo's! popcorn::

[gonzo76]

WOW!!!!! :worship: :worship:

Your pictures are fantastic. Loving your TR.:love:

[BellaBaby]

The pictures are awesome!! Especially the sunrise--love it!!:banana:

Waiting for more...popcorn::

[Planning fanatic mom]

Yeah!!! an Update. 91 days until I get to visit WL. I can't wait.

:love: your pics!!!!

[MadiMouse]

Wow! Such awesome pictures!!!! I felt as if I was there with you!!! :)

[scottny]

Hi,
Just found your tr tonight. Your title lured me in.

Glad you were able tog et the bag (wow that was expensive).

Your photos are gorgeous.

The food looks incredible.

looking forward to more.

[topdog]

absolutely gorgeous pictures -

thank you for sharing them!!

(now I know why you have 5,000+ pics!)
Glad you like the pictures.
You are the Master. :worship:

Those are some of the most beautiful sunrise pictures I've ever seen. The colors just blend together.

All I can say is WOW!
Thank you. Glad you like the pictures
Once again you do not disappoint! I love the orange you were able to capture of the sunrise on the water. It is just beautiful reflecting off of the blue. The lobby bridge is nicely done too. My indoor Lodge pics are always very dark or black, that was beautiful! Your photos are raising my level of excitement for a return trip and what I want to capture with my camera. I don't sleep much in Disney- there is way too much to do and enjoy so the next time I am going to sneak out while everyone else is asleep and enjoy the sunrise.
Now, what's for breakfast? I can't wait to see the photo's! popcorn::
I have to use a tripod and let the shutter open for a few seconds for every shot I took that early in the morning. Otherwise it will be dark also. I was lucky I am an early bird so I can catch the sunrise. The boat dock moment was definitely my favorite.
You will just have to wait for the breakfast. ;)
WOW!!!!! :worship: :worship:

Your pictures are fantastic. Loving your TR.:love:
Thank you. Thank you.
The pictures are awesome!! Especially the sunrise--love it!!:banana:

Waiting for more...popcorn::
Glad you like it. That sunrise was my favorite moment.
Yeah!!! an Update. 91 days until I get to visit WL. I can't wait.

:love: your pics!!!!
Just make sure you don't forget your camera. :laughing:
Wow! Such awesome pictures!!!! I felt as if I was there with you!!! :)
Glad you like them.
Hi,
Just found your tr tonight. Your title lured me in.

Glad you were able tog et the bag (wow that was expensive).

Your photos are gorgeous.

The food looks incredible.

looking forward to more.

Thank you for reading and glad you like the pictures.

[topdog]

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 2

We arrived CR at about 7:15am and we thought we were early for our ADR at Chef Mickey's character breakfast. Boy! Were we wrong!!! That place was a mad house. There were piles of people already waiting at the entrance of the restaurant. Parents were waiting half asleep while trying to maintain some kind of control (if that's what you call it) to their forever energized children.

Since we don't have any children, we took our pager, step aside and wait patiently. While DW was sitting there quietly, I decided to walk around the lobby and took more pictures of the CR lobby. Since CR has a lot more windows, it wasn't too bad to take pictures without any flash.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Inside/_DIS5059.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Inside/_DIS5063.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Inside/_DIS5064.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Resort/CR/Inside/_DIS5065.jpg

Until I tried to take a shot of the Chef Mickey's. The sun was just not shining at the right place. Grrrr...

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Restaurant/CM.jpg

By 7:45am, we were still waiting...and waiting...and waiting...and waiting. Another 10 minutes has gone by. I started to notice people who came after us has already gone into the restaurant. I poked DW to see what's going on. It turns out, according to the CM, some one had made a mistake on the pager and gave our table to some one else pager but never realize we were still waiting. So they frantically locate another table so they can seat us as soon as possible.

I can feel this might not be a good morning to me. Nonetheless, they were able to get us a table within minutes. As soon as I walked in, I realize how large was this place. I felt like walking through a maze until we got to our table. There were a few large tables next to us with room of children. Surprisingly, they were all very well behaved. The CM came and got us some orange juice and coffee. She did told us the french toast there is very good. So off to get our breakfast we go.

DW has to go first so I can stay behind by the table to watch our stuff. When DW came back with her food, then it's my turn and of course, I have to bring my camera with me. The buffet did looked good but typical.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day4/CM_D4_buffet7.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day4/CM_D4_buffet1.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day4/CM_D4_buffet2.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day4/CM_D4_buffet5.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Breakfast/Day4/CM_D4_buffet6.jpg

After the shots are over, it's time to load up my plate. Every thing was good as it can be but I do like the Mickey waffle very much. More so than the french toast. The cinnimon roll was very tasty too.

Then obviously, how can we leave character breakfast without taking some pictures with the characters. It seems the characters like to pose with DW more than me. Now I am really jealous.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS5090.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS5091.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS5092.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS5094.jpg

The only one who would gave me a moment to pose is Donald. Yet, he "clocked" me with his elbow during the pose for being too Grumpy, maybe??

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0438.jpg

The only character who can't make it to our table was Goofy. I must say, each of those character stop at each and every single table and took their time to take pictures with every family. It's nice to see how dedicate these characters work.

Soon, our bellies were recharged and I am ready to "POWER DISNEY!!!" :cool1:

[LaurenMic]

I would be so mad about the pager mix up! Good thing they scrambled to find you a table, but still annoying. Great pictures of the CR lobby! Can't wait to see how you Power Disney :rotfl:

[topdog]

Just a quick note. After I posted my last update, I receive a PM about how rude my comment on how surprise I thought the children were very behaved.

First of all, my comment wasn't meant to offend any parents whatsoever. Giving the size of how large Chef Mickey with all the kids there, I just can't see how every children there can be all well behaved at the same time. That's is why I was surprise. To be honest, it really meant as a compliment to the kids as well as their parents.

Some of my favorite moment at Disney was my interaction with the kids and even their parents were surprise I would take the time and talked to their kids.

In any event, I just want to apologize if this member thought I have some thing against kids. It's truly not the case.

[topdog]

I would be so mad about the pager mix up! Good thing they scrambled to find you a table, but still annoying. Great pictures of the CR lobby! Can't wait to see how you Power Disney :rotfl:

It's okay. In the end, it's all good. Granted how busy they were. They are allow to make some mistake. Now if they ran out of food, then I might have a problem. LOL... Glad you like the pictures.

[GeminiAngel]

Just a quick note. After I posted my last update, I receive a PM about how rude my comment on how surprise I thought the children were very behaved.

First of all, my comment wasn't meant to offend any parents whatsoever. Giving the size of how large Chef Mickey with all the kids there, I just can't see how every children there can be all well behaved at the same time. That's is why I was surprise. To be honest, it really meant as a compliment to the kids as well as their parents.

Some of my favorite moment at Disney was my interaction with the kids and even their parents were surprise I would take the time and talked to their kids.

In any event, I just want to apologize if this member thought I have some thing against kids. It's truly not the case.

Ignore the comment. I think most of us readers here understand you.
There's always someone out there with a complex who takes things personal.

Awesome update!

[tiggrbaby]

Just a quick note. After I posted my last update, I receive a PM about how rude my comment on how surprise I thought the children were very behaved.

First of all, my comment wasn't meant to offend any parents whatsoever. Giving the size of how large Chef Mickey with all the kids there, I just can't see how every children there can be all well behaved at the same time. That's is why I was surprise. To be honest, it really meant as a compliment to the kids as well as their parents.

Some of my favorite moment at Disney was my interaction with the kids and even their parents were surprise I would take the time and talked to their kids.

In any event, I just want to apologize if this member thought I have some thing against kids. It's truly not the case.

I took it as a nice comment. Don't worry about it!

[daly7o9]

Just a quick note. After I posted my last update, I receive a PM about how rude my comment on how surprise I thought the children were very behaved.

First of all, my comment wasn't meant to offend any parents whatsoever. Giving the size of how large Chef Mickey with all the kids there, I just can't see how every children there can be all well behaved at the same time. That's is why I was surprise. To be honest, it really meant as a compliment to the kids as well as their parents.

Some of my favorite moment at Disney was my interaction with the kids and even their parents were surprise I would take the time and talked to their kids.

In any event, I just want to apologize if this member thought I have some thing against kids. It's truly not the case.

There's always some malcontent out there that tries to make everyone as miserable as they are. Don't worry about it. Your TR rocks, as do your pics.:thumbsup2

[topdog]

Ignore the comment. I think most of us readers here understand you.
There's always someone out there with a complex who takes things personal.

Awesome update!

I took it as a nice comment. Don't worry about it!

There's always some malcontent out there that tries to make everyone as miserable as they are. Don't worry about it. Your TR rocks, as do your pics.:thumbsup2

Thanks everyone. That felt much better. I knew my writing wasn't all that but I didn't think it would send the wrong message. :scared:

Let's move on. I should have another update tonight. :yay:

[Dustmouse]

Still enjoying your writing and pics! Thanks for taking time to share you experiences! Keep up the good work!:earsboy:

[Misslandsquirrel]

Found this TR this morning and am so hooked, I am almost late to work. LOL! Have never stayed at WL. IT is beautiful.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all your pictures. They are absolutely stunning. I am ordering a new flash today! WOOHOO!!!
Can't wait to read more and am already rethinking my ADRS.:confused3

[william4192]

Subbing

[GoofyFairie]

You are an excellent story teller! That on top of the beautiful photography you are sharing with us is just over the top! :goodvibes As always, I am anxiously awaiting your next post! :) Let's "Power Disney"!? :confused: popcorn::

[PrincessBrideJo]

Subbing to this, love your pictures!

And I am a mom of 2 very energetic boys - 4year and 18 months and I didn't think your comment was rude at all. I knew exactly what you were saying!!!

[GreatBiscuit]

Awesome Pics TD!

Loved the sunrise and the fisheye photos. I also really liked the character photos made with ambient light rather than with a flash. I have a 50mm lens with a 1.9 minimum F-stop and was hoping to be able to use it for similar shots. Do you happen to recall what exposure setting these were done with?

Looking forward to more!

GB

[KeepSwimmingDory]

Beautiful pictures and great report! I enjoyed getting caught up on it and look forward to the rest. So glad you got your camera back and were able to enjoy the photography part of your trip. And we all get the benefit!

[momala]

Jumping on board here! I have been reading (and enjoying) your trip report from the beginning! Your comment about children was written in a very friendly manner!!! You just keep on posting 'cause I am loving all of your writing and wonderful pictures:)

[crazy4dizney]

WOW! I'm really enjoying your TR. Thanks for all your hard work putting it together.:thumbsup2 I think I just missed you . We were at the lodge from Feb 15-22 .

[Planning fanatic mom]

Thanks for the pics of CM. They are great. I can't wait to check out The Contemporary. I had friends who stayed there and loved it.

Keep up the good work.

[topdog]

Still enjoying your writing and pics! Thanks for taking time to share you experiences! Keep up the good work!:earsboy:
Thank you. Glad you enjoy my writing and pics.
Found this TR this morning and am so hooked, I am almost late to work. LOL! Have never stayed at WL. IT is beautiful.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all your pictures. They are absolutely stunning. I am ordering a new flash today! WOOHOO!!!
Can't wait to read more and am already rethinking my ADRS.:confused3
I am glad you like the pictures. Thank you for the compliment. Actually, I did not use flash for any pictures you see here.
Subbing

You are an excellent story teller! That on top of the beautiful photography you are sharing with us is just over the top! :goodvibes As always, I am anxiously awaiting your next post! :) Let's "Power Disney"!? :confused: popcorn::

Thank you for the compliment GF. Power Disney is a term my DW invented. Basically, it meant we will be going from one ride to another until we can't do it any more. :rotfl:

[topdog]

Subbing to this, love your pictures!

And I am a mom of 2 very energetic boys - 4year and 18 months and I didn't think your comment was rude at all. I knew exactly what you were saying!!!
Awww...thank you and glad you like the pictures. A 4 yrs old and an 18 months old, you got a handful there. That's a fun age to go to Disney.
Awesome Pics TD!

Loved the sunrise and the fisheye photos. I also really liked the character photos made with ambient light rather than with a flash. I have a 50mm lens with a 1.9 minimum F-stop and was hoping to be able to use it for similar shots. Do you happen to recall what exposure setting these were done with?

Looking forward to more!

GB
GB. I was using a 35mm f/2 for the character pictures. 50mm is too close. F-stop was completely wide open to the max @ f/2 shooting in aperture priority mode. ISO was set at 160 and shutter was between 1/15s to 1/20s. Also I shoot everything in RAW files only so I can re-adjust the white balance afterward.

I was lucky the sun was pretty strong that morning and we were not far from the windows. If it was a cloudy day, then I wouldn't have able to achieve the shot.
Beautiful pictures and great report! I enjoyed getting caught up on it and look forward to the rest. So glad you got your camera back and were able to enjoy the photography part of your trip. And we all get the benefit!
Hi KSD!! Welcome back! I hope you had a great trip at WL. I still have a lot more pictures to share. Please stay tune!!!
Jumping on board here! I have been reading (and enjoying) your trip report from the beginning! Your comment about children was written in a very friendly manner!!! You just keep on posting 'cause I am loving all of your writing and wonderful pictures:)
Welcome to the ride. I am glad you like my report and the pictures. Thank you for the support as well. That really make me feel good.
WOW! I'm really enjoying your TR. Thanks for all you hard work putting it together.:thumbsup2 I think I just missed you . We were at the lodge from Feb 15-22 .
Glad you like my TR. Welcome to the ride. What a bummer! You did miss us. We left on Feb 15 at about 1:30pm. That's another event of its' own. Please stay tune and find out what happened.
Thanks for the pics of CM. They are great. I can't wait to check out The Contemporary. I had friends who stayed there and loved it.

Keep up the good work.

Thanks! The Contemporary is a great resort. Very futurastic, modern and retro all at the same time. But WL is still my favorite. ;)

[topdog]

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 3

After we left Chef Mickey's breakfast, we thought it's time to pay AK a visit this morning. At first, we thought we will take the bus to AK. But after waiting 10 minutes at the bus station with no bus in sight, I started to look around to see if there is another way to get there. (Maybe I waited too long for our breakfast ADR and I lost my patience for the day. :&) Anyway, I notice there is a walkway right next to the bus station thinking that might get us to the main transportation terminal. I told DW let's walk over to the main terminal and take the bus from there since I know it isn't that far. DW reluctantly agree with my assessment.

Some how, I was wrong. The walkway ends up taking us to MK instead. Yikes!

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/CR_DIS5096.jpg

For some reason, I thought there are buses that can bring us to AK from MK but DW insist there isn't. After consulting to a CM that was standing there by the bus waiting area, my assumption was defeated. I was wrong again. I thought to myself. I am not have a good morning today.

The CM instructed us to take the monorail and get off the main transportation terminal then take the bus from there to AK. Well, at least we did walked off the food a little. So we got on the monorail, rode in circle again and got off at the main transportation terminal. Then took the bus to AK. By the time we got there, it's almost 10:00am.

Temperature was rising rapidly to the mid 70s when we got to AK. Even we have no plan of attack at AK, DW knew she wants to ride the Expedition Everest. So we stop and pick up a map, located where the ride was and start walking toward that direction. As soon as we walked past the Asia entrance area, we can see the mountain already.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5113.jpg

The mountain just look so magnificent. I still remember 3.5 years ago, that whole area was still under construction. I didn't even know that was the ride they were building until I took this picture when I was parasailing at the lagoon in 2005.

http://www.fideela.com/vwtopdog/Photos/Disney/Wilderness_BEV.jpg

EE is in the top center of this picture.

Anyway, the waiting time was close to an hour so we took the fastpass instead. We have till 1:45 for our turn. With more than 3 hours of waiting time in our hand, we have plenty of time for other rides.

So we head on over to It's tough to be a bug. Waiting time wasn't bad, 20 minutes I think. We walked up and follow the crowd. Didn't take long at all. We were walking up so fast, I can only manage to squeeze in a few quick shot of the tree.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5101.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5102.jpg

The show was just as funny as we were there 3.5 years ago. As soon as we came out of the show, I thought there was another ride I want to go, something involve with the dinosaur. However, I just can't remember the name of the ride. I guess the name Jurassic Park was kinda stuck in my thought. (I was at Universal Studio 2 years ago.)

Some how, DW do remember the ride "Dinosaur". So she pointed it out on the map and lead me to the direction. As usual, I keep taking picture of the signs and light fixtures along the way.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/AK_DIS5123.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Fixture/AK_DIS5647.jpg

Once we walked in to the waiting area of the Dinosaur ride, and I can remember this is the place. There was only a few minutes wait but it's okay since the A/C feels kinda nice. I was trying to take a picture of the center piece, T-Rex. The light condition wasn't bad and I thought I can do it. But then for some reason, they dim the light as soon as I was about to press the shutter. Bummer!! After much evaluation, I swap out with a faster fisheye lens hoping it will give me a more dramatic shot even with the low light condition. So I focus and hold it as steady as I possibly can, and just about a nanosecond from pressing that shutter, the entrance door opened. DW gave me a light elbow tap to signal me, let's move. Crap! As a result, it turned into a blurry drama shot of T. Doh.....

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5122.jpg

Did I mention I am not having a good morning!!

In any event, the Dinosaur ride was very thrilling to say the least. Even though I rode this before but my heart still pound as I go through the ride. The most exciting part was the end of the ride when the dinosaur head coming towards you with the loud scream. I swear I thought I was my ear drum was going to pop and pee in my pants at the same time. (Not funny!!) :)

Even after the Dinosaur ride, it was barely noon. I was starting to get hungry from all this walking but DW was not ready to eat yet. Not to mention, we have no lunch ADR this afternoon. Not knowing quite sure what we want to do next. The only major attraction we haven't tried yet other than EE was the Kilmanjaro Safari. We went to this ride 3.5 years ago and it was a major disappointment. Time was September. It was hot and the animal were either hiding in the shade or sleeping. Didn't see much animal at all.

While DW was reluctant to try this again, I somehow convinced her to give it a try one more time. Not to mention, I was armed with the most powerful big gun, zoom lens I meant, this time. The animal can hide but I will find them. When we got there, the waiting time was 30 minutes. So we thought, it's not that bad and proceed to enter the queue line. Once we got to the end of the line, I pulled out the camera and swap out with the zoom lens. People around me were stunned with my camera and probably thinking what a doofus I am carrying such massive piece of equipment.

The line did move fairly quick. I am not sure how long it took but I thought it was about 30 minutes or so before we got on the ride. Pretty accurate. Once the ride begins, I then remember how bumpy the ride it was. We were bouncing around like shake and bake.

However, we were able to see a lot more animal this time. Hippos, elephants, giraffe and many other wild animal were out in full force. The only disappointment was the lions. They were laying there sleeping and didn't move a muscle. What a bunch of lazy cats! LOL... The funniest moment was when I was taking pictures of the giraffe, I forgot I was shooting with the zoom lens. The giraffe look so close to me, I thought he/she was coming after me. I kept sliding myself backward which it doesn't has a whole lot of room. My DW keep yelling at me, "Stop sliding over. There is no more room." Ha! Ha! I just got carried away and forgot I was in such tight small space.

Anyway, here are some of the animal shot.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5204.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5240.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5265.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5283.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5311.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5368.jpg

I was very satisfying when the ride was over. Too bad the line was long. Otherwise, I would've go right back in again to see if I can catch some other animal I have missed.

So after we got off the Safari ride, we then began to walk over to EE. It was a long walk and we were still early when we got to EE. So we sat down by the side and wait it out because my legs begins to felt a little achy.

When 1:45pm comes around, we jump right into the line and ready for the EE. Fastpass is really a great thing. We got in and hop into the cart in no time. If my memory serve me correctly, I believe this is our first time to use the fastpass.

The EE ride was truly a league of its' own. The riding backward thing didn't surprise me because I saw it on one of the promo from Disney channel once or twice. However, what I did caught off guard was how cool the temperature inside the mountain. Every thing was a blur to me. I didn't even catch what the monster looks like. All I can remember was there were a lot of loops in between. :) In fact, by the time I got out, I felt a little light headed. Maybe it has something to do with my hunger. So it's time to get some grub.

[karen l]

Disney should hire you to do publicity for them. Once again, your pics are awesome! I feel like I'm in WDW when I read your reports. Great job!

[ladylyons]

I just have to say AWESOME Pics!!! I've been reading this from the begining because the title drew me in. I agree with others who have said your comment about the kids didn't offend at all. I have a 2 year old and a 6 month old and anytime we go out I'm always afraid we're ruining others dinner if either of them act up but have had people tell me they were perfectly fine when I thought that the 2 year old was a perfect terror. So don't let what people say get to you. So great job on your report. It's making me even more excitied for our trip in May!! Keep it coming!!

[topdog]

Disney should hire you to do publicity for them. Once again, your pics are awesome! I feel like I'm in WDW when I read your reports. Great job!
Thanks. Now there's a thought...Disney hiring me to do publicity.:cloud9: I will jump on the opportunity in a heartbeat. I work in the marketing area for the past 15 years already. I am sure I will be a perfect fit. LOL...
Glad you like the TR and pics.
I just have to say AWESOME Pics!!! I've been reading this from the begining because the title drew me in. I agree with others who have said your comment about the kids didn't offend at all. I have a 2 year old and a 6 month old and anytime we go out I'm always afraid we're ruining others dinner if either of them act up but have had people tell me they were perfectly fine when I thought that the 2 year old was a perfect terror. So don't let what people say get to you. So great job on your report. It's making me even more excitied for our trip in May!! Keep it coming!!
Thank you for the compliment on my pictures. My DW keeps telling me I should get a job as a photopass photographer at Disney. :laughing: If that can pay the bills...then why not. I was hoping there is a market out there people would hire me to follow them around Disney to document their entire trip or even just for a day. Any taker here. LOL...

I am sure your 2 year old will behave fine. After all, 2 year old is allow to have some fun especially at Disney. I wish you and your kids will have a wonderful time at WDW.

I do appreciate your support. It make me feel so much better.

[Misslandsquirrel]

Keep writing. You are making me EXCITED for our trip in April. Just nervous about taking all 4 kids at once.
I am not specifically buying a new external flash for Disney just buying one because I need it. I still can't even figure out what all lenses to take with me everyday, etc.

[LiteBrite]

Topdog, I love these 2 photos of your DW and you -




http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/B_DIS5092.jpg



http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0438.jpg


Soon, our bellies were recharged and I am ready to "POWER DISNEY!!!" :cool1:

Power Disney - Rock on!! :rotfl2:

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 3

After we left Chef Mickey's breakfast, we thought it's time to pay AK a visit this morning. At first, we thought we will take the bus to AK. But after waiting 10 minutes at the bus station with no bus in sight, I started to look around to see if there is another way to get there. (Maybe I waited too long for our breakfast ADR and I lost my patience for the day. :&) Anyway, I notice there is a walkway right next to the bus station thinking that might get us to the main transportation terminal. I told DW let's walk over to the main terminal and take the bus from there since I know it isn't that far. DW reluctantly agree with my assessment.

Some how, I was wrong. The walkway ends up taking us to MK instead. Yikes!

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/CR_DIS5096.jpg

When I first caught a glimpse of the sign for the walkway to Disney, I got a warm fuzzy feeling, because I love that walkway, but when I realized you were trying to get to AK instead, I felt awful for you! I've made a couple of tactical errors like that trying to get from one place in WDW to another, and man can it ever take time away from your precious "Power Disney" schedule!



In any event, the Dinosaur ride was very thrilling to say the least. Even though I rode this before but my heart still pound as I go through the ride. The most exciting part was the end of the ride when the dinosaur head coming towards you with the loud scream. I swear I thought I was my ear drum was going to pop and pee in my pants at the same time. (Not funny!!) :)

The first time I ever rode Dinosaur, I can remember ducking my head as far down as I could get it, and stomping the floor of the ride vehicle over and over while I screamed my head off! :scared: That Carnotaurus is very very scary. :scared1:



While DW was reluctant to try this again, I somehow convinced her to give it a try one more time. Not to mention, I was armed with the most powerful big gun, zoom lens I meant, this time. The animal can hide but I will find them.

You are the mighty hunter!

The funniest moment was when I was taking pictures of the giraffe, I forgot I was shooting with the zoom lens. The giraffe look so close to me, I thought he/she was coming after me. I kept sliding myself backward which it doesn't has a whole lot of room. My DW keep yelling at me, "Stop sliding over. There is no more room." Ha! Ha! I just got carried away and forgot I was in such tight small space.:rotfl2:

You got some wonderful animal shots, but that giraffe picture is my favorite. :thumbsup2




http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5265.jpg



[/QUOTE]

[PrncessA]

Great updates! I love your TR!


In regards to whoever was upset over your children comment just forget them. I have two VERY loud 4&2yo's and I am always impressed and amazed when I see well behaved children. Not that mine aren't but more often than not I am pulling my hair out in public!!!

[GoofyFairie]

You always make me feel I am right there with you topdog! Beautiful pics of the animals, so crisp and clear and you can see the animals personality in their expression. I guess my family does Power Disney too. My kids never want to slow down and check it all out. They don't even want me to take pics, its just go, go, go! I can't wait to see what you have for lunch! I know it is going to be delicious!

[Planning fanatic mom]

I like the picture of what I think is a baboon. You can see all the colors on his face. That is amazing!!! :worship:

If I could afford it, I would love to have someone follow the family around and take pictures. I love pictures and so do my daughters.

We really like the photopass because the photos are so much better than anything we take. I guess you don't need the photopass people.

Keep up the good work.

[ladylyons]

If I could afford it, I would love to have someone follow the family around and take pictures. I love pictures and so do my daughters.

We really like the photopass because the photos are so much better than anything we take. I guess you don't need the photopass people.

You took the words out of my mouth. I have to completely agree. If I could afford it I'd pay someone who takes such great pictures to follow me around Disney or any where for that matter.

We also enjoy the photopass people because not only do they take the pictures with their cameras but we always give them ours to take a picture with also. Sometimes their picture is better and sometimes ours is better. Keep up the great report and pictures.

[topdog]

Keep writing. You are making me EXCITED for our trip in April. Just nervous about taking all 4 kids at once.
I am not specifically buying a new external flash for Disney just buying one because I need it. I still can't even figure out what all lenses to take with me everyday, etc.
4 kids!!! :eek: :eek: :eek: You definitely have a handful. You definitely deserve some pixie dust your way.pixiedust:

I don't know what kind of lens you have. I would recommend at list one wide angle prime like a 35mm, I use that the most. A wide zoom would help too like a 24mm-120mm. Anything longer than that is just too heavy to carry around unless you have something specifically you want to shoot like the safari.
Topdog, I love these 2 photos of your DW and you -

Those two pictures were very animated. That Donald, he's a wild duck. :rotfl2:

When I first caught a glimpse of the sign for the walkway to Disney, I got a warm fuzzy feeling, because I love that walkway, but when I realized you were trying to get to AK instead, I felt awful for you! I've made a couple of tactical errors like that trying to get from one place in WDW to another, and man can it ever take time away from your precious "Power Disney" schedule!

My DW still won't let me down on that one. Even the walk was long but the scenery was beautiful.

The first time I ever rode Dinosaur, I can remember ducking my head as far down as I could get it, and stomping the floor of the ride vehicle over and over while I screamed my head off! :scared: That Carnotaurus is very very scary. :scared1:

That was exactly how I felt and reacted.

You got some wonderful animal shots, but that giraffe picture is my favorite. :thumbsup2

Thank you. When I took that shot, I thought the giraffe was going to swallow my camera. :lmao:

Great updates! I love your TR!


In regards to whoever was upset over your children comment just forget them. I have two VERY loud 4&2yo's and I am always impressed and amazed when I see well behaved children. Not that mine aren't but more often than not I am pulling my hair out in public!!!

Thanks you. Thank you for your support. I appreciate it very much and I am pretty much over it.

Kids are suppose to be loud. That's what they do. Enjoy those moment while you can. Because when they grow up, you might not able to pry a word out of them. :)

[topdog]

You always make me feel I am right there with you topdog! Beautiful pics of the animals, so crisp and clear and you can see the animals personality in their expression. I guess my family does Power Disney too. My kids never want to slow down and check it all out. They don't even want me to take pics, its just go, go, go! I can't wait to see what you have for lunch! I know it is going to be delicious!
While Power Disney was fun, it does have a down side. A couple of blisters on my feet and sore legs. :sad:

Those animals were beautiful. I wish I was able to take a second ride to capture some more.

Lunch will be serve next. :goodvibes
I like the picture of what I think is a baboon. You can see all the colors on his face. That is amazing!!! :worship:

If I could afford it, I would love to have someone follow the family around and take pictures. I love pictures and so do my daughters.

We really like the photopass because the photos are so much better than anything we take. I guess you don't need the photopass people.

Keep up the good work.
Thanks. That is my most favorite picture on the day. I was totally shock I got him just the way it was. I did a little research on that animal because I also thought it was a baboon too. Turn out it's a Mandrill. I wish I can catch more of him/her.

I think Disney did it right with this photopass idea and they certainly spare no expense on their equipment. However, some time I think their pictures are too "mechanical". I like it with a little more creative and perspective.

DW did ask me about should we try the photopass thing. I gave her this strange look and that was the end of it. :lmao:
You took the words out of my mouth. I have to completely agree. If I could afford it I'd pay someone who takes such great pictures to follow me around Disney or any where for that matter.

We also enjoy the photopass people because not only do they take the pictures with their cameras but we always give them ours to take a picture with also. Sometimes their picture is better and sometimes ours is better. Keep up the great report and pictures.

Thank you. So glad you like the report and pictures.

When you are ready to hire some one to follow you around Disney to take pictures, sign me up. LOL...

I tell you a little secret. Our friend who UPS my camera bag to me. She and her DH go to vacation with us all the time. However, they get a little irritate when I constantly take pictures of them. Ha! Ha! But then I would pick a good one to print/mount/frame it and give it to him/her or both as either birthday or Christmas present. They will then shock and awe about the picture.

[topdog]

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 4

We have no ADR for lunch today. We planned it that way so we can be free to eat wherever we want without any restriction. (Just like what we did at 50's PTC which it was a hit.) We did however have an ADR at Jiko again tonight. (More on that later.)

So as we were walking down from EE area, we passed the Anandapur Yak and Yeti restaurant and saw no one at the entrance. I did remember a few people from this forum mention how great Yak and Yeti was. We decide to see if we can give that a try. I poked my head through the door and ask the CM how long is the wait for the next table. He said 5 minutes. I thought, I am sold. We got our pager and in less than 5 minutes, table was ready.

It was fairly dark inside the restaurant and the menu was more like an Asian fusion cuisine. First, the CM suggest we should try their tropical fruit punch for drink and so we did.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_P_drink.jpg

For appetizer, DW has the Wok-fried green beans - Battered green beans with sweet Thai chili sauce. Hmmm...the chili sauce was very good.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_B_appetizer.jpg

I have the Pork pot stickers - Pan seared with soy lime dipping sauce. Very good too but it taste even better with the chili sauce from the Wok-fried green beans.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_P_appetizer.jpg

Main course, DW had the Tempura Shrimp - chili plum sauce, cocunut-ginger rice and stir fried veggies. It tasted as good as the presentation.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_B_maincourse.jpg

I got the Duck with anandapur glaze - roasted half duckling, orange wasabi glaze, jasmine rice and stir fried veggies. While the duck do taste very good, however due to fact I grew up from eating duck regularly. So I was spoiled. (No matter why Donald "clocked" me with his elbow.) I can only say this dish is okay or acceptable. IMO, there is no other way to have a duck other than a true Chinese roast duck or Peking duck. However, I would still recommend this dish to other people. It really is not a bad dish.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_P_maincourse.jpg

In no time, we cleaned out our plates and it's desert time. The CM told us he knew exactly what we need for desert. So I thought, let see what he got and we agreed to try his suggestion.

He brought out two Mango Pie - Shortbread cookie crust, fresh whipped cream and raspberry sauce. After I inhaled half of the pie down, I then realized I haven't take a picture yet. Here is what's left over but the time I took the picture. LOL...

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Dining/Lunch/Day4/YY_D4_P_desert.jpg

While the pie was absolutely fantastic but at the same time, the CM was very lucky. That's because I am allergic to Mango. It doesn't happen often but some time if the mango citrus was too high, my throat would close up after I ate it. I tried not to eat mango most of my life even I like it very much. If I do want to eat it, I have to give it a sample taste first and see if the citrus level high enough to trigger my allergic reaction. Fortunately, the mango pie did not trigger my allergic reaction. I have to say the Mango Pie is my second most favorite desert. Number 1 is the Kahula-flavor chocolate cake from WCC.

Now we need to walk off all these food we just consume. So I want to go back to the Asia area to take a shot of me in front of the EE mountain.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/People/P_DSCN0441.jpg

As you can see in this picture, I was carrying my zoom lens attached to my camera. As we were walking away from this spot, a photopass CM stop and ask me about my camera. Here are our conversation.

CM: "That's a heavy duty camera you got there. What's the range?"
Me: "Yes, it's a fairly power zoom lens, 70-200mm."
CM: "With a lens like that, you must be a professional."
Me: "I am not a professional. I just like to take a lot of pictures."
CM: "If you don't mind me asking, how much does that lens cost?"
Me: I hestate. "Ahhh...a little over a grand." Nervously looking over to see my DW's reaction.
CM: "That's not bad. If you can sale a few good shot from that lens then it's pay for."
Me: "Yes."
CM: "You have a good day."
Me: "You too."

As soon as we start walking again, DW began to laugh at me and said, "I knew you don't want to tell that guy how much was the lens cost didn't you?" (Since I never told her how much I pay for any of my camera equipment and she never ask. I am sure she knew it wasn't cheap. DW also knew I am a tight wart. :) I don't drink and I don't smoke. I fix everything around the house myself instead of replacing it; from fridge, washing machine, dryer, plumbing, boiler to cars. Camera is one of the few hobbies I have that I am willing to spend money onto.) I said, "Well...I bought it a long time ago anyway." By then, I Just want to find a hole and bury my head into it. LOL... Enough of my own embarrassment.

Just when we were about to leave the Asia area, we saw a few monkeys were playing by the entrance of the Asia area. (Don't know the exact name of these guys.) The structure was actually quite far. Since I was armed with the powerful zoom, I was shooting like rapid fire. ;)

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5418.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5435.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5442.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5499.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5533.jpg

These guys were very playful. The little guy was swinging around all over the place. I really enjoy photograph them. We were there for good 20 minutes before we decided it's time to go.

As we were walking back to the main entrance, we made many many stop to observe some more birds and animal.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5583.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5600.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5608.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5615.jpg

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5632.jpg

And more sign.

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Signage/AK_DIS5648.jpg

We also made a few stop to hunt for the Mickey Margaritta glass but with no luck. By the time we got to the bus station, it was almost 4:00pm. We need to head back to WL because our dinner ADR is @ 6:00pm. There is a small twist on tonight's dinner. So please stay tune and find out what happened. :)

[toocherie]

Tight-wart! I love that the CM totally got you to admit how much you spent in front of DW!!!!!!

[MadiMouse]

Great update! I knew exactly how you felt when the CM asked about the price for your lens! I've had people do that to me, too. lol

[can84]

Just wanted to say I'm enjoying your report and the pictures very much :) The pictures are so clear!

[WillowBelle]

Just stumbled upon this TR. I am in heaven looking at your fisheye photos. I am renting one (because of the photos I have seen on this board) for my upcoming trip in June. I am sooo excited to get a different perspective with my pictures. Did you happen to take any firework photos with that lens? I'm curious how they would come out.

Can't wait to continue reading/viewing your trip.

[topdog]

Tight-wart! I love that the CM totally got you to admit how much you spent in front of DW!!!!!!
LOL... What DW also didn't know was I save all my travel expense reimbursement for over a year in order to buy the lens. That's why I drive a 10 years old car so I can come out ahead on every trip.
Great update! I knew exactly how you felt when the CM asked about the price for your lens! I've had people do that to me, too. lol
I think the CM realize perhaps he shouldn't have ask that question but it was already too late. :laughing:

[topdog]

Just wanted to say I'm enjoying your report and the pictures very much :) The pictures are so clear!
Thank you. Glad you come along for the ride.
Just stumbled upon this TR. I am in heaven looking at your fisheye photos. I am renting one (because of the photos I have seen on this board) for my upcoming trip in June. I am sooo excited to get a different perspective with my pictures. Did you happen to take any firework photos with that lens? I'm curious how they would come out.

Can't wait to continue reading/viewing your trip.
Glad you join the ride and thank you for reading my TR.

Using a fisheye lens can be tricky. I am still learning on how to use it. Glad you like the pictures. If you can rent one, I would definitely do that. That lens isn't cheap anymore. For some reason, Nikon has raised the price on all their lenses between 20 to 30%. I saw one try to sell it for over $900. That's insane.

As for the firework photos...well...you'll just have to wait to see what happened. :rolleyes1 Sorry!

[a1tinkfans]

WOW! :thumbsup2
What an AMAZING TR! In all my time on the DIS boards I actually have read VERY few, but you have had me
MEZ....MORIZED! :flower3:
Loving the Pictures, posts and think the one of your wife with Donald is Priceless! :lmao:
My favorite shot is one of the castle ones, just MAGICAL!~

As a Certified Disney Addict I am thoroughly enjoying your report and the details are awesome. Will be trying some of the restaurants we have not eaten at yet due to your post!

THANKS to you (and your wife for putting up with all the "picture taking time"), :rotfl2: because your efforts REALLY bring many SMILES to people, and we can ALL use that now!
Can't wait to hear more!! popcorn::

[Christyo72]

I read your whole trip report yesterday and loved every minute! Your pictures, descriptions, and humor are beyond compare. Can't wait until your next installment!

[LiteBrite]

Day #4 (Wednesday) Part 4


As you can see in this picture, I was carrying my zoom lens attached to my camera. As we were walking away from this spot, a photopass CM stop and ask me about my camera. Here are our conversation.

CM: "That's a heavy duty camera you got there. What's the range?"
Me: "Yes, it's a fairly power zoom lens, 70-200mm."
CM: "With a lens like that, you must be a professional."
Me: "I am not a professional. I just like to take a lot of pictures."
CM: "If you don't mind me asking, how much does that lens cost?"
Me: I hestate. "Ahhh...a little over a grand." Nervously looking over to see my DW's reaction.
CM: "That's not bad. If you can sale a few good shot from that lens then it's pay for."
Me: "Yes."
CM: "You have a good day."
Me: "You too."

As soon as we start walking again, DW began to laugh at me and said, "I knew you don't want to tell that guy how much was the lens cost didn't you?" (Since I never told her how much I pay for any of my camera equipment and she never ask. I am sure she knew it wasn't cheap. DW also knew I am a tight wart. :) I don't drink and I don't smoke. I fix everything around the house myself instead of replacing it; from fridge, washing machine, dryer, plumbing, boiler to cars. Camera is one of the few hobbies I have that I am willing to spend money onto.) I said, "Well...I bought it a long time ago anyway." By then, I Just want to find a hole and bury my head into it. LOL... Enough of my own embarrassment.

:lmao: You were so busted! :lmao:

Just when we were about to leave the Asia area, we saw a few monkeys were playing by the entrance of the Asia area. (Don't know the exact name of these guys.) The structure was actually quite far. Since I was armed with the powerful zoom, I was shooting like rapid fire. ;)

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/AK/_DIS5418.jpg

Gorgeous!

[Twingle]

I've just started reading your TR, and this:


[QUOTE=topdog;30426079]

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0179.jpg
QUOTE]

is fantastic. You have an amazing eye for photography, I can't wait to see what you're able to capture once "the bag" gets to you!

Thank you so much for sharing, I'm looking forward to reading more!

[Misslandsquirrel]

Love the latest installment. I can't wait to go eat all that YUMMY food. Already exercising to accomodate all the eats.
Yep! 4 kids! Do need all the pixie dust I can get and maybe some Prozac too. ;)

[GoofyFairie]

Wow topdog! The wildlife photographs are just BEAUTIFUL! Animal Kingdom is my favorite park after Magic Kingdom and the way you manage to capture the soul of each animal each and every time is amazing. I can't wait to see what your creative eye has allowed you capture next! I am anxiously awaiting your next post.....popcorn::

[william4192]

The Picture of you (Top Dog) and Donald is priceless. I want to go around the office and set it to be everyone's desktop :lmao:


Of course you'd kill me if I did that. Man, that unshaven look and knowing Donald "hit you in the jaw" just cracks me up :rotfl2:

Hope we are still friends. :dance3: :hippie: :thumbsup2

[PrncessA]

Great photos!!!!! I love your Asia photos they are beautiful!

[Planning fanatic mom]

Great update!!! AGAIN!!!!!

I like the cliffhangers.popcorn::

[cherokeemamma]

Hey TopDog,
Just joining in on your TR. It is great...really enjoying it. Loving you pictures.:thumbsup2 You have some really nice shots.

You and I are kindred spirits...at least in the photography realm. My family gives me grief all the time about my "obsession" over my camera/photography. I love my camera and have been interested in photography since I was about 9 or 10. I really felt your pain when you left it behind. :sad2:

Last year at Disney we were grabbing a quick bite to eat at the hotel and I had sat my camera down by my side. All of a sudden I went into panic mode; I thought I had lost my camera. I jumped up and ran over to the food station and the cashier and was hysterically asking CMs if they had seen my camera. I was in tears. I was so nuts I can't even tell you. :crazy: Anyway, I went back to the table and saw it sitting there on the seat. What a relief. I was so happy but I what a nut I felt like. :sad2:

I drooled over the contents in your camera bag. :worship: OMG...you have some equipment. BTW, I shoot with a Nikon D50. I dream of owning a D300...someday perhaps. :cloud9:

I can't believe you shot over 3500 pictures. :eek: I am so happy though. I can show my family that post and perhaps they will not give me such a hard time on our next trip. Last year I shot approx 1300 pictures. They kept saying little remarks like, "are you going to photograph every second of the entire trip?" You DW seems like a sweetheat...not giving you a hard time. I do have a teenager though. I guess that is their job...Hopefully, they will appreciate it someday.

Thanks for sharing with us...Looking forward to more.:cool1:popcorn::

[topdog]

Before I start answer the response, I would like to take a moment to thank every one who read my TR and post their comments. I never thought my TR would generate such positive response. You have no idea how much this meant to me. English is my second language and I always struggle when it comes to writing. I even failed Eng101 twice in my college days. :eek:

My head can barely fit through the doorway now. :cloud9: :rotfl:

I just want to say thank you one more time.

[mommyintn]

Before I start answer the response, I would like to take a moment to thank every one who read my TR and post their comments. I never thought my TR would generate such positive response. You have no idea how much this meant to me. English is my second language and I always struggle when it comes to writing. I even failed Eng101 twice in my college days. :eek:

My head can barely fit through the doorway now. :cloud9: :rotfl:

I just want to say thank you one more time.

I'm loving this trip report and you are doing a great job!! The pictures are gorgeous and you are a good storyteller which makes it enjoyable to read. Keep them coming!:thumbsup2

[topdog]

WOW! :thumbsup2
What an AMAZING TR! In all my time on the DIS boards I actually have read VERY few, but you have had me
MEZ....MORIZED! :flower3:
Loving the Pictures, posts and think the one of your wife with Donald is Priceless! :lmao:
My favorite shot is one of the castle ones, just MAGICAL!~

As a Certified Disney Addict I am thoroughly enjoying your report and the details are awesome. Will be trying some of the restaurants we have not eaten at yet due to your post!

THANKS to you (and your wife for putting up with all the "picture taking time"), :rotfl2: because your efforts REALLY bring many SMILES to people, and we can ALL use that now!
Can't wait to hear more!! popcorn::
Thank you. So glad my TR can bring SMILES to people. That really makes my day.

DW is just as much a character as Donald. :laughing:
I read your whole trip report yesterday and loved every minute! Your pictures, descriptions, and humor are beyond compare. Can't wait until your next installment!
So glad you enjoy the TR. I should able to post the next installment in the next day or two.
:lmao: You were so busted! :lmao:
Yup!! So glad my embarrassment amuse you. :laughing:

[topdog]

I've just started reading your TR, and this:


[QUOTE=topdog;30426079]

http://www.dewlama.com/Public/Photos/Disney/09/Park/MK/DSCN0179.jpg
QUOTE]

is fantastic. You have an amazing eye for photography, I can't wait to see what you're able to capture once "the bag" gets to you!

Thank you so much for sharing, I'm looking forward to reading more!
Thank you for the compliment. I still have a lot of pictures to share.
Love the latest installment. I can't wait to go eat all that YUMMY food. Already exercising to accomodate all the eats.
Yep! 4 kids! Do need all the pixie dust I can get and maybe some Prozac too. ;)
Prozac!!! :eek: :eek: :eek: :rotfl:
Wow topdog! The wildlife photographs are just BEAUTIFUL! Animal Kingdom is my favorite park after Magic Kingdom and the way you manage to capture the soul of each animal each and every time is amazing. I can't wait to see what your creative eye has allowed you capture next! I am anxiously awaiting your next post.....popcorn::
Thank you. I should have another installment post in the next day or two.

[topdog]

The Picture of you (Top Dog) and Donald is priceless. I want to go around the office and set it to be everyone's desktop :lmao:


Of course you'd kill me if I did that. Man, that unshaven look and knowing Donald "hit you in the jaw" just cracks me up :rotfl2:

Hope we are still friends. :dance3: :hippie: :thumbsup2
Yes my friend. Please feel free to set the picture as desktop at your office. My DW loves that pictures too. The timing on that picture was just perfect.
Great photos!!!!! I love your Asia photos they are beautiful!
Thank you.
Great update!!! AGAIN!!!!!

I like the cliffhangers.popcorn::
Glad you like it. There are still a few more cliffhanger along the way. It's not over until it's over. popcorn::

[topdog]

Hey TopDog,
Just joining in on your TR. It is great...really enjoying it. Loving you pictures. You have some really nice shots.
Thank you from reading. Glad you like the pictures.
Last year at Disney we were grabbing a quick bite to eat at the hotel and I had sat my camera down by my side. All of a sudden I went into panic mode; I thought I had lost my camera. I jumped up and ran over to the food station and the cashier and was hysterically asking CMs if they had seen my camera. I was in tears. I was so nuts I can't even tell you. :crazy: Anyway, I went back to the table and saw it sitting there on the seat. What a relief. I was so happy but I what a nut I felt like. :sad2:
I certainly hows that feel.
I drooled over the contents in your camera bag. :worship: OMG...you have some equipment. BTW, I shoot with a Nikon D50. I dream of owning a D300...someday perhaps. :cloud9:
It took me years to build up my equipment. D300 is a mighty fine camera. I had the pleasure to try it at Circuit City a couple of months ago but didn't buy it. I might be saving for a D700 instead. :eek:
I can't believe you shot over 3500 pictures. :eek: I am so happy though. I can show my family that post and perhaps they will not give me such a hard time on our next trip. Last year I shot approx 1300 pictures. They kept saying little remarks like, "are you going to photograph every second of the entire trip?" You DW seems like a sweetheat...not giving you a hard time. I do have a teenager though. I guess that is their job...Hopefully, they will appreciate it someday.

Thanks for sharing with us...Looking forward to more.:cool1:popcorn::
DW wasn't really into photography until this trip. She can't wait until I upgrade my next camera now so she can take over my current one. :laughing:
I'm loving this trip report and you are doing a great job!! The pictures are gorgeous and you are a good storyteller which makes it enjoyable to read. Keep them coming!:thumbsup2
Thank you. I will have another installment post in the next day or two.

[Sandy321]

I'm still reading -

I do appreciate that you are taking your time and that you are posting so many of your wonderful pictures!! (and I'm glad your dw let you get some of the pictures with her in it!! )

[topdog]

I'm still reading -

I do appreciate that you are taking your time and that you are posting so many of your wonderful pictures!! (and I'm glad your dw let you get some of the pictures with her in it!! )
Thank you. So glad you enjoy the pictures. DW usually is very camera shy until she sees the characters. :yay:

[topdog]

Althought I am still working on the next installment, I did, however, process most of the AK pictures. Therefore, I decide to at least release them first.

Here is the link to my site. 2009 Disney Pictures (http://www.dewlama.com/Public/HTML/Disney_DIS.html) It's not pretty but it's simple and functional. It's the best I can do right now and I only enable the AK section now.

If you have any comment or question about the pictures or the site, please either post it here or PM me.

Thanks.

[Jess4Disney]

Hi!!!

Omigosh I am LOVING this TR! I'm glad you got your camera, because your photos ROCK! I hope you don't take offense, but you crack me up, with all of the little phrases you use. "Tight wart" almost made me spew my drink all over the monitor! Wow... English as your second language? Your writing style is awesome =)

I think it's ridiculous that someone PM'd you regarding your 'well behaved children' comment. Some people find the need to turn EVERY compliment into something negative. I think it was very obvious you meant no offense!

And do you watch the show Lost? You slightly resemble the man who plays one of the main organizers of the Dharma initiative. The guy who stars in the briefing videos. Sorry if you don't know who I'm talking about, LOL. But just wantd to tell ya.

Excited to read more!

[Beep]

Hey there!

I have loved every word and photo in your TR and can't wait to read more. I love the food porn pictures and it has persuaded us to try O'Hana's in December.

Keep the updates coming and thanks for keeping me entertained this morning :thumbsup2

[william4192]

And do you watch the show Lost? You slightly resemble the man who plays one of the main organizers of the Dharma initiative. The guy who stars in the briefing videos. Sorry if you don't know who I'm talking about, LOL. But just wantd to tell ya.

Excited to read more![/QUOTE]


Marvin Candle. That's too funny. You actually do resemble him a tad.


AK pics are amazing. I live in Orlando and love to go to the parks to shoot. I'm such a novice and I'm limited by my camera. You really are good.

[Jeanine3kids]

Great TR. I love your report so far your pictures are amazing. Let me ask you I am in need of buying a new camera but nothing fancy do you have any recommendations I am a point and shoot kind of person but I also like a decent zoom like 10x or 8x. DO you have any suggestions? I have the sony cyber but its a piece of garbage. LOL

[clomahony]

Just wanted to chime in as well and say what a wonderful trip report and your photos should be bought by Disney - they are amazing!!!:cool1:

Keep up the good work because reading these trip reports are the only thing keeping me going since I don't have another trip planned this year and may not be able to go until 2010 (which seems like forever).

[ancestry]

Thank you for sharing your story. I have really enjoyed reading it and my two six year olds (twins) are absolutely loving your photographs.

[Mrsdisneyb2b]

I just finished reading through... and i have to say, the picture with you and the camera and the many heavy looking bags... made me wonder.. How on earth do you walk around with all that without hurting?? lol

This is by far one of the best reviews:cool1:

[topdog]

Hi!!!

Omigosh I am LOVING this TR! I'm glad you got your camera, because your photos ROCK! I hope you don't take offense, but you crack me up, with all of the little phrases you use. "Tight wart" almost made me spew my drink all over the monitor! Wow... English as your second language? Your writing style is awesome =)

I think it's ridiculous that someone PM'd you regarding your 'well behaved children' comment. Some people find the need to turn EVERY compliment into something negative. I think it was very obvious you meant no offense!

And do you watch the show Lost? You slightly resemble the man who plays one of the main organizers of the Dharma initiative. The guy who stars in the briefing videos. Sorry if you don't know who I'm talking about, LOL. But just wantd to tell ya.

Excited to read more!
Thank you. I am so happy you like my TR and pictures so much. I really appreciate your support as well.

I never watch LOST. My best friend is a fan. I might have to ask him who this man is. Now you got my curiosity going.
Hey there!

I have loved every word and photo in your TR and can't wait to read more. I love the food porn pictures and it has persuaded us to try O'Hana's in December.

Keep the updates coming and thanks for keeping me entertained this morning :thumbsup2
So glad you like my TR and pictures. O'Hana is the bomb. I told DW that's a must when we go back.
And do you watch the show Lost? You slightly resemble the man who plays one of the main organizers of the Dharma initiative. The guy who stars in the briefing videos. Sorry if you don't know who I'm talking about, LOL. But just wantd to tell ya.

Excited to read more!


Marvin Candle. That's too funny. You actually do resemble him a tad.


AK pics are amazing. I live in Orlando and love to go to the parks to shoot. I'm such a novice and I'm limited by my camera. You really are good.[/QUOTE]

Now I have some serious catching up to do here.

Thank you for the compliment. You just have to keep shooting. Practice makes perfect. Camera is just a tool. How you view and present the subject is more important. The more you shoot...the more you'll find a way to work around your equipment's limitation.

[topdog]

Great TR. I love your report so far your pictures are amazing. Let me ask you I am in need of buying a new camera but nothing fancy do you have any recommendations I am a point and shoot kind of person but I also like a decent zoom like 10x or 8x. DO you have any suggestions? I have the sony cyber but its a piece of garbage. LOL
Thank you for the compliment. For a P&S, since I am a Nikon guy, I would recommend the CoolPix P80. I think the CoolPix P90 has just been released but it cost more. My DW loves the P80 I got her for the trip.
Just wanted to chime in as well and say what a wonderful trip report and your photos should be bought by Disney - they are amazing!!!:cool1:

Keep up the good work because reading these trip reports are the only thing keeping me going since I don't have another trip planned this year and may not be able to go until 2010 (which seems like forever).
Thank you for the compliment. If Disney would buy my pictures, I am SOLD. LOL...

That is a long wait. No Disney until 2010.:sad1: I will do my best to bring Disney to you in the mean time.
Thank you for sharing your story. I have really enjoyed reading it and my two six year olds (twins) are absolutely loving your photographs.
So glad you like my TR. It's nice to hear your twins like my photos. I will release more ASAIC.
I just finished reading through... and i have to say, the picture with you and the camera and the many heavy looking bags... made me wonder.. How on earth do you walk around with all that without hurting?? lol

This is by far one of the best reviews:cool1:
Wow!! What a compliment!! "One of the best reviews." Thank you.

I was so pumped, I didn't even feel the bag was heavy. LOL.... But I do think my walk around camera bag was some where between 16 to 20 pounds. My legs were sore by the end of the day.