Hicks on Holiday 2 - Done brung the Kinfolk, Part 2, update 8/18/09, p.4 FINISHED! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

DisneyMom5

03-09-2009, 03:02 PM

Well, because I was slow as molassus in Ju-ly, they closed my original thread.
But, they didn't reckon on me being persistant, did they?

:lmao:

I made a promise that I would finish this report, if not for posterity,
then for my family's own enjoyment.
Besides, I need to get it done so I can do a Pre-Trip report for THIS SEPTEMBER!!! :banana:

[Hicks On Holiday 3 catchy title suggestions are now being accepted.]

So, for your continuing pleasure, I give you:

Hicks on Holidays 2 - Done Brung the Kinfolk, Part 2
A story of our family trip to WDW that took place Sept. of '07.

[Part one can be found here. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=19016879&postcount=1) ]

Here's a refresher course on the cast of "characters" (love ya, mean it):
Me (Sarah) - 39, SAHM Homeschooling mom, Disney compulsive planner.
Decided a Grand Gathering with dh’s family sounded like a good idea. Sigh. Always planning our next trip to WDW.

John, aka Ninja Guy/Indiana Jones - 37, My handsome dh of 15+ years.
He really has studied to be Ninja AND an archaeologist. Hoping to retire from manufacturing and just dig stuff.
He tolerates my WDW obsession, mostly because once we get there, he has a great time.
Wondering whether this “Mandatory Family Fun Trip” was a good idea.
He’ll be the one wearing sunglasses in all the pictures.

Disney Girl - My 13yo dd. The apple does not fall far from the tree with this one.
She says “Mom, can you teach me to plan a WDW vacation?”
I am so proud. *wipes a tear*

The Chef - My almost 11yo ds. Wants to be a chef when he grows up.
Knowledgeable in all things Lego, Star Wars, and animals.
Hoping to hit the LEGO store this trip.

Danger Boy - DS, almost 8. This one has “The Kavorka” AND two dimples to back it up.
(If you've watched Seinfeld, you know.)
Voted “most likely to get lost at WDW.”

The Inquisitor- DS, almost 6. Full of questions, 24 hours a day.
Loves the hotel, loves the buses, loves the monorail – why the heck did we buy park tickets?
Oh, yeah, because he LOVES the trains. Sigh.
Good thing we love him!

Princess K - 4yo dd. This one is cute and knows it.
She and her younger sis received princess dresses for Christmas and plan on using them at WDW.
Will be over the top in love with everything at WDW.

Bitsy - DD, almost 3. Always in cahoots with Princess K, getting into something!
Doesn’t remember the last trip, but has seen all the pics and is well versed in all things WDW.

Babycakes - DD1, this is her first trip.
Though she was quite possibly a souvenir from the last trip.
And worth every penny!

Also traveling with us:
Mom - MY mom, 69, who has never been to WDW.
She hasn't the foggiest idea what WDW is all about, and has seen very few of the movies.

Bionic SIL, 30 something -totally ready for the Disney experience and VERY happy to let me plan the whole thing.
That works for me. LOL

Pocohantas Jr. (d niece 10), and Stitch Jr. (d nephew 8) – their first trip, and they are REALLY looking forward to it.
B is one of Disney Girl’s best friends, even though they are 3 years apart. Really wants to meet Pocahontas..
N is Danger Boy’s best friend, and probably is the “2nd. Most likely to get lost at WDW.”
It probably will be big fun to have their best friend with them at WDW.

When we last left the Hicks they were:
...off to find the Mecca of Disney Stores,
A Bastion of Candy Goodness, and,
be still their itty bitty beating hearts, the LEGO STORE!

Next up: Don't shop on Saturday, and Mom finally loses it....

DisneyMom5

03-09-2009, 03:27 PM

Don't shop on Saturday, and Mom finally loses it....
DTD - Sept. 22, 2007

We were very excited about our first trip to DTD.

There was one little detail that we had neglected to think about.

It was SATURDAY afternoon.

Apparently, like all good malls, DTD is the place to be on a Sat.
Locals and tourists alike.

So my one suggestion to you all is to visit on a weekday, preferably in the morning.
More on that later.

If you have boys, like I have boys,
there are two words that you hear a bit too much:
LEGOs
Bionicles

So our first stop at DTD was, of course,
the Lego store.

McDonald's next to the Lego Store

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0410.jpg

Danger Boy checking out the windows

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0421.jpg

Life size Bionicle, and some Hick youngins

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0413.jpg

Lego Dogs

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0423-1.jpg

Lego Tourists

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0427.jpg

Close up of the Lego Tourist's camera

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0427-1.jpg

Bitsy eyeing that Lego Sea dragon

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0419.jpg

View across the inlet of the DTD lake (Rainforest Cafe)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0411-1.jpg

Let me just fill you in by telling you that for some reason, Babycakes was in a BAD mood.

In retrospect, although the rest of us had just had a ginormous breakfast at Chef Mickey's,
she had eaten very little,
not to mention we were heading for nap time.

She probably just wanted to nurse and sleep.

DisneyGirl took her outside of the Lego Store, and sat on a bench with her.

Apparently, Baby Cakes was making her own itinerary:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0416.jpg

She's looks all cute and innocent there, doesn't she?

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0417.jpg

But this was the reality for most of the day:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0414.jpg

But I digress.

Here's my take on the Lego store: For all the hype, it isn't all that great.
My boys didn't really want to spend that much time there.
They weren't interested in any of the play areas,
and after dropping a few bucks on souvies (graciously sent back to our resort, whoo hoo!),
They were ready to move on.

More on this segment in an upcoming post...

Hedy

03-10-2009, 12:09 PM

Hicks on Holiday 3...The Tertiary Terror?

akayek31

03-13-2009, 10:33 PM

Hey! I am glad you are continuing your TR. I enjoyed reading your TR and dining reviews. Can't wait to read more. popcorn::

whogirl'smom

03-14-2009, 11:31 AM

Hey, Sarah, I'm glad you're back. I see you all the time over on Brenda's thread. I do remember reading your report last year and I wasn't sure if I missed the rest, but this explains it!

"Hicks on Holiday: 3-D!"
"Hicks on Holiday: Third Time's the Charm"

I'll need more details to think of more catchy titles! :laughing: Any extra kinfolk coming this year?

DisneyMom5

03-14-2009, 03:36 PM

Hicks on Holiday 3...The Tertiary Terror?

:lmao:

Hey! I am glad you are continuing your TR. I enjoyed reading your TR and dining reviews. Can't wait to read more. popcorn::

Thanks! Hoping to have more up tomorrow.

Hey, Sarah, I'm glad you're back. I see you all the time over on Brenda's thread. I do remember reading your report last year and I wasn't sure if I missed the rest, but this explains it!

"Hicks on Holiday: 3-D!"
"Hicks on Holiday: Third Time's the Charm"

I'll need more details to think of more catchy titles! :laughing: Any extra kinfolk coming this year?

Nice titles! Thanks for checking in. :goodvibes

Just2DisneyKids

03-15-2009, 12:47 AM

I too have enjoyed your TR, happy to see you back! And hooray for Sept! :goodvibes

DisneyMom5

03-17-2009, 08:59 AM

More DTD...

We decided to leave the Lego Store area,
and head for what is known to be the biggest Disney Store...somewhere???
North America???
The World???
Well, it's the biggest Disney Store in WDW, that's for sure!

A few more Legos, before we go...

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0411.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0412.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0418.jpg

The World of Disney store has several areas,
each with their own entrance.

Guess which area we found first?

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0428.jpg

YUP, princesses.
After all the Bioncles and Transformers and Legos, we needed a feminine touch.

As it was Halloween, they had a lovely costume display.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0429-1.jpg

This store would have been sooooo much fun...
On a weekday...
in the morning...

As it were, it was SOOOOOOOOOOO chaotic.
Packed, packed, packed.

Check out lines 6 people deep.

John about had a coronary.
He does NOT like being crowded,
NOT to mention the possibility of losing small children.

:scared1:

We managed to shop the whole store though, spent quite a bit of moola.

But there was one item in particular I had come for.

I had seen it online, and knew it was available at this store.

I intended to use my Disney Visa, and get a discount.
(I actually FORGOT to use my Disney Visa,
but I did use my disney rewards, so technically it was free.)

What was this item I wanted so badly???

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/640042_m.jpg

Yup, a Belle Precious Moments.
I collect Precious Moments, though not actively.
But when I saw the Disney line...well, I HAD to have it!!!

It was part of the reason I insisted we go to DTD.

Later I saw it at a shop at MGM. Apparently, it's available outside of DTD.
Doh!

But anyhoo...

At one point, John was looking around, and I wanted to check out, so I had DisneyGirl stand in a very particular spot with the other kids to wait for me.
While I was gone, John came back, and asked where I was.
He then went looking for me, having decided we needed to stick together, and get out of that place.
While he was gone, Mom came up looking for me.
DisneyGirl explained the situation, and Mom decided to go looking for both John and I.
I returned, for some reason, and heard the whole situation. :rotfl:
Finally, both Mom and John returned, having been unable to find me,
as I was waiting where I said I would.

:confused3

Mom and I headed to finish checking out our last items.

The line to check out was PAINFULLY slow. Really Awful!

We finally got our items, and headed out through the Pirate section.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0431.jpg

We then went over to Once Upon a Toy.
I was really intrigued by this store, especially the "Make your own Lightsaber" section.

The girls had a great time dressing ponies, while John and The Chef made their own lightsabers, and Mom and I did some Christmas Shopping!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0433.jpg

This store was great, and the little girls ended up spending some money
on a My Pretty pony box full of pony princess costumes.
Cram it in girls, we're getting our money's worth of this one! :lmao:

Coming up:
Goofy's Candy store, and Mom finally breaks....

whogirl'smom

03-17-2009, 05:41 PM

I just love World of Disney! Those Cinderella costumes are a little weird with the masks, aren't they? :rotfl:

Bring on the candy! Specifically chocolate dipped marshmallows, rolled in M&Ms!

akayek31

03-17-2009, 05:46 PM

I can't wait to go to the World of Disney. I have read so much on here about it.

DisneyMom5

03-17-2009, 06:53 PM

I just love World of Disney! Those Cinderella costumes are a little weird with the masks, aren't they? :rotfl:

Bring on the candy! Specifically chocolate dipped marshmallows, rolled in M&Ms!

I'd like to go back to DTD when it's not so busy. But it won't be this next trip, as dh hasn't gotten over that last trip yet. :rotfl:
I won't be giving anything away to say that we did not get a chocolate dipped marshmallow. Sigh.

I can't wait to go to the World of Disney. I have read so much on here about it.

It really is a cool store. Just go when it's not busy. :thumbsup2

DisneyMom5

03-25-2009, 03:02 PM

DTD - Sept. 22, 2007
Goofy's Candy store, and Mom finally breaks....

So...When we last left the Hicks, they were checking out at the Once Upon a Toy Store.
The clerk there was awesome.
I jokingly said "It's only ONE pony per box, right???"
He said "Let me see how much room you have in there?
Go ahead and get another pony."

:banana::banana:

I had two very excited little girls,
because they didn't have to share the one pony!

The boys had finished their light sabers,
and we thought they were a great value.
For around $20, you got the lightsaber, batteries
(installed, to be sure you had it together right and it worked),
AND a bonus Disney collector's pin,
which you could choose between a Jedi and and a Sith pin.
Batteries and the Pin alone were a good chunk of that $20.

We sent these things back to the hotel,
so we didn't have to haul a double edged red Darth Maul light saber on the bus!

:darth:

We then decided a visit to Goofy's Candy store was in order.
Who doesn't like candy? :confused3

Now is the time I need to remind you of an earlier comment:

Let me just fill you in by telling you that for some reason, Babycakes was in a BAD mood.

In retrospect, although the rest of us had just had a ginormous breakfast at Chef Mickey's,
she had eaten very little,
not to mention we were heading for nap time.

She probably just wanted to nurse and sleep.

Yup, she was still cranky.
We were all feeling her wrath.

We went into the store, and we all picked out some candy.

There was some discussion about what fudge to get.

We were waiting to check out when Babycakes REALLY lost it.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0414.jpg

And, apparently, so did Mom. :scared1:

She picked up Babycakes, said "That's enough of that."
And stormed out of the store.

YIKES.

In Mom's defense, she had put up with us for a two day drive,
and an entire week of HOT FL weather.

Considering this was her only meltdown (Mom's, not Babycakes),
we understood.

I went out and quietly talked to both of them, and said it was ok.

Later, when we realized that the baby's problem was that she needed MORE snacks (duh!),
Mom came to the rescue by carrying crackers in her purse. :thumbsup2

So, candy in hand, we headed back to the resort.

Tired of DTD, but happy.

We spend that night hanging out around the resort, and,
as usual,
:laundy:

Next up: I'm slogging in the rain, just slogging, in the rain...

whogirl'smom

03-25-2009, 03:20 PM

I can't help but love that picture of Babycakes! We all feel that way sometimes!

DisneyMom5

03-27-2009, 11:07 AM

No trip update, just wanted to pop on and say:

WE'RE GOING TO DISNEYWORLD!
:cool1:
:banana:
:woohoo:
:yay:
:dance3:
:cheer2:
:grouphug:

I was able to book Free Dining yesterday. FOUR rooms.
Yup, the WHOLE Hick gang is returning.
Bionic SIL and crew (still no BIL, sniff) are booked for a return engagement,
and Mom, shock of all shocks, has agreed to go back!!! :scared1:

This is ALL dependent on John still having a job in the fall,
and how my 97 year old grandma is doing at the time,
as Mom and Dad take care of her,
but I got the trip insurance and we're hoping for the best!

So Disneygirl just said a moment ago "Uh, you need to finish your report,
so you can start a pre-trip."
Yup, way ahead of ya sister.
Can't make ADRs until approx. June 22, but I already know where we are going.
Well...for the most part.
We will probably change our minds a million times. LOL

Oh, and today is Disneygirl's birthday,
and tomorrow is Princess K's,
so it's a Party, Party weekend here in Hickville.
party:
:bday:

Thanks for reading, as always! :goodvibes

whogirl'smom

03-27-2009, 04:53 PM

akayek31

03-27-2009, 11:38 PM

Yippee you get to go again. I saw the free dining annoucement and thought of your TR. I hope everything works out. Man 4 rooms did you have to pay $200 deposit on each room?

DisneyMom5

03-28-2009, 07:37 AM

I'll congratulate you over here, too! Maybe if you showed John some youtube videos of the band at Raglan Road and the dancer, you could convince him of the "allure". ;)

Tell the girls Happy Birthday! Mmm, I just realized that means TWO cakes at your house this weekend! I'll be over after while....

Yup! Sometimes we only do one for the birthdays that are close together
(we also have 3 in August),
BUT, Grandma is making Princess K a Barbie Cake,
and DisneyGirl requested:

German Chocolate Cake (also known as "Better than..." Cake)
1 box of German chocolate cake, prepared according to box
When cake is done, cool for 10 minutes
After 10 minutes, poke holes in the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon (or something like)
drizzle over the top: 1 can of sweetened cond milk
3/4 of a jar of caramel topping
Allow to cool completely
Spread with 8 oz cool whip or enough whip cream to cover
Sprinkle with 6 crushed Heath bars or Butterfingers.
Refrigerate until serving

Yippee you get to go again. I saw the free dining annoucement and thought of your TR. I hope everything works out. Man 4 rooms did you have to pay $200 deposit on each room?

They counted John and I's connecting rooms as one ressie,
and then the other two as separate, so we only had to pay $600. :thumbsup2

Thanks for reading! :wizard:

Pandahelen

04-14-2009, 10:12 PM

Mmmm - that sounds really good! I may just have to make that (minus the whipped cream - DH has a cholesterol issue!). I love chocolate and caramel and the condensed milk just sounds so good!

DisneyMom5

04-15-2009, 07:17 AM

Mmmm - that sounds really good! I may just have to make that (minus the whipped cream - DH has a cholesterol issue!). I love chocolate and caramel and the condensed milk just sounds so good!

It IS! LOL

Thanks for reading - I'm hoping to have time to do an update this week! :thumbsup2

DisneyMom5

05-09-2009, 07:49 AM

I'm slogging in the rain, just slogging, in the rain...
Epcot and MGM/DHS
Sept. 23, 2007
In the interest of time, and considering I should start a pre-trip report soon,
I'm going to try to speed through the rest of this!

Please keep your hands and arms in the trip report at all times.
And no smoking.

Flash photography IS allowed.

Now sit back, and enjoy, as Sarah attempts to pull a trip report out of a hat.

When we last left the Hicks, they had visited DTD.
After spending the day at DTD, it was time to head back to the parks.

We decided to spend another day at MGM/DHS,
as there were a few things we had missed the first time.
Especially Playhouse Disney, which I knew the little kids would love.

We had a 4:00 ADR at Biergarten, so we needed to travel over there later.

I really didn’t want to walk to Epcot, as I knew we’d be tired,
and after the great Stomach Flu Disney Disaster of 2004,
Disneygirl refuses to ride the transportation boats.
So, that left the buses. But more about that later.

We entered DHS, and meandered around the park.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000025-1.jpg

To be honest, I don't remember WHAT we did at first.
Might have been on the Movie ride, as we usually do that.
But...
Our prime objective was Playhouse Disney, so eventually we made our way there.

Babycakes was loving it.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000028a.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0441-1.jpg

The Bear of the hour

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0442.jpg

Bitsy getting her groove on

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0449-1.jpg

The kids always enjoy this. The only thing that bothers me is sitting on the floor.
Mom ended up standing in the back, and my knees would have preffered that!
Oy.

Then we headed the direction of the Narnia display.
The wait time for this was pretty long, and we weren't in the mood to wait around, so we took this picture instead.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0461.jpg

Then, we headed to the "Walt Disney, One Man's Dream."
In all of our visits, we have never done this.
I didn't even know there was a MOVIE in this exhibit.

As we were walking up, the CM at the door was trying to encourage people to come in, without much success.
As we approached she brightened right up.

Why, you ask???

Because her good friends waiting just around the corner inside were terribly bored.

Who, you ask???

THE YOMD DREAM SQUAD!!!

Yes, that's right, we were going to win another dream.
What was it?
Dream Fastpasses, AGAIN!

We were thrilled!

They even gave one to Babycakes.

:cheer2: :dance3: :woohoo:

Then we continued on through the exhibit.

Mom LOVED this, so apparently, along with It's a Small World,
it gets the Senior Citizen stamp of approval!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000029a-1.jpg

Walt's school desk

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000030.jpg

Sleeping Beauty Castle, DL

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000031-1.jpg

Mary Poppins Costume

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000032-1.jpg

Spaceship Earth Model

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000033.jpg

Newspaper cartoon from the day Walt died

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000034a.jpg

Next up: More Touring One Man's Dream, and we get to the slogging in the rain part.

DisneyMom5

05-09-2009, 08:09 AM

More Touring One Man's Dream, and we (eventually) get to the slogging in the rain part...
9/23/07

We continued on through the exhibit:

Cinderella Castle
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000035.jpg

Danger Boy, Babycakes and I check out the Tree of Life Model

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000036.jpg

Then we went to view the movie.

This movie is great!
Mom was taking notes. LOL

My only beef is that it was COOOOOOOLD in there.
The A/C must have been on 40 degrees. BRRRRRRRRR.

I worried about Mom, as she tends to get chilled easy, but she said she was ok.
I was bribing small children to sit on my lap. LOL

After the movie we left, and headed to the other end of the park,
in hopes of an early lunch at Pizza Planet.

Had to stop for a pic in the Sci Fi car

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0462.jpg

Oh, and there's Woody, trying to get out of the rain

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0463.jpg

Yup, it was raining off and on.

Don't forget the Singin in the Rain umbrella!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0464.jpg

Might as well, you're wet already!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000057.jpg

We easily found Pizza planet, and were pleased with their service, their food,
and the fact that DangerBoy and Bitsy could get Gluten Free pizza.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000040-1.jpg

Because the GF pizza would take a little longer, the CM at the counter offered to bring ours out to us.

We tooks seats upstairs (there's an elevator).

While we waited, we played "try on my hat."

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000041-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000042.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000043.jpg

The food was out in no time.

It's rather loud in here, because of the arcade, but we really liked it.
I didn't think the pizza was like cheap frozen pizza as some people say.
[I've had A LOT of cheap frozen pizza in my time, so I feel I can speak to that. LOL]

After eating, Disneygirl and I headed for the restroom, and then went to find our group.
We headed outside, where we thought they'd be waiting, and could not find them anywhere.
I finally remembered we had cell phones, and called John.
They were waiting inside...next to the restroom enterance. Doh!

Finally back together, we explored that end of the park while heading to the Lights, Motor, Action show.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000052-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000053.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000054.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000055-1.jpg

Can you tell that the sky is getting darker???

Next up: Lights Motor Action, and, I promise, we slog...

whogirl'smom

05-09-2009, 09:08 AM

We loved One Man's Dream! Missed the movie, though, I think it had just started and we didn't want to wait till the next showing. My dd just really enjoys historical type stuff of famous people, which cracked me up for a 7 year old! At Dollywood, one of her favorite things even when she was little was touring the museum with all of Dolly's costumes and dresses from performances!

Yuck on the rain for your day, but it doesn't seem to affect the kids! :thumbsup2

akayek31

05-09-2009, 10:14 AM

I am glad you had great things to say about Toy Story Pizza. We want to eat there on our trip. You guys are so lucky with the dream team :)

micandminforever

05-09-2009, 03:23 PM

Your day at DS was a fun read. I love touring One Man's Dream it brings back so many childhood memories.

DisneyMom5

06-05-2009, 11:49 AM

Lights Motor Action, and, I promise, we slog...
MGM/DHS
Sept. 23, 2007

When we last left the Hicks they were on their way to watch LMA.

John and the boys had taken it in earlier in the week,
but we girls wanted to see it too.

We made it to the stadium in good time,
parked the stroller,
and headed in.

All the seats in the front were already taken,
which I originally thought was ok, as they were less shaded,
BUT...
then we began to climb.
And climb.
And FREAKIN climb up to the available seats.

WARNING: the bleachers at LMA will KILL you.
My legs were dying.
I was worried Mom would have a heart attack.
I was almost willing to turn around and go back down and out of the stadium.

The things I do for my kids. :sad2:

Here are some pics, courtesy of DisneyGirl:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000058.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000060-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000063.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000065.jpg

Soon the show started, with a warning that there might be inclement weather on the way. You can see the pavement is already wet.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000069-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000070-1.jpg

We watched the amazing little cars and the people on fire and the motorcylists, etc.,
and were heading for the BIG finale,
and then suddenly they announced that lightening had been spotted and they had to stop the show.

BUMMER!

But...Here's what the sky looked like at the time:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000056-1.jpg

Even Miss Piggy was in danger of being blown away.

We left the stadium, and decided we had time to use those fastpasses on one more trip to Tower of Terror.
[Or Towr of Terra as our beloved former President would have called it.]

I believe we were able to walk on twice, as not everyone went on.

Rides accomplished, we headed out of the park, pausing to look at some shops.

Aren't these hats adorable? Even Disney Celebrities need hats!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000072-1.jpg

The bus stop for Epcot is way around the bus circle. Here's the view from there:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000073.jpg

Flaw in the Plan #1:
In theory, the bus to Epcot should be along speedy quick.
We'll just stand here under this shelter, while we wait, as it's starting to drizzle.
And wait.
And wait.

What time was that ADR? 4 pm?
Hmmm... it seemed like we should have plenty of time to get there from here.

IF THE STINKING BUS WOULD SHOW UP!!!!

FINALLY, it arrived.

Flaw in the plan #2. Biergarten is ALLLLLLLLLLLLLL the way in the back of Epcot from the bus stop.

Flaw in the plan #3. It is now POURING rain.

So, thus begins the slogging.

Here is the pic DisneyGirl accidently took during the great slog:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000081-1.jpg

She also took a few shots on purpose. LOL

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000077.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000078.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000079-1.jpg

We think this one would be improved by this guy moving OUT of our pic!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000080.jpg

Finally, we arrived at Biergarten, drenched, but happy we had not missed our ADR.

Next up: Oompa means I love you, and a tour of the homeland.

winkers

06-05-2009, 03:38 PM

I'm so glad you're finishing your tr!

DisneyMom5

07-02-2009, 04:43 PM

Epcot
Sept. 23, 2007

After our nice meal at Biergarten,
which included a beeeeeeeeeer flight for John and a nice mug o beer for Mom,
we toured around Germany.

Glockenspiel

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000107a-1.jpg

Famous Guy fighting a dragon

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000108.jpg

Kings (I THINK this is Germany???)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000115-1.jpg

In the shop Der Teddy Barr (pardon my spelling) there were really cool dolls that were all the princesses in sort of American girl form.

Here is Cindy and Mulan:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000122.jpg

Snow White:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000117.jpg

We then headed to Italy to check it out. The weather had cleared considerably, and we were enjoying our leisurely evening.

Masks:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000113.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000114.jpg

Gondola

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000110.jpg

The crew:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0467.jpg

Me and my babies;

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0468.jpg

We decided to go check out the American Experience, and we're early for the next show.
The cast member was very chatty, and asked what our names were and where we were from.
He then pronounced us "Family of the Night," and let us in early to check out the rotunda.
Then, he took us up by elevator, so that we could be the first family seated.
After all the other people came in, they announced us as Family of the Night, and we got to stand up and wave.
This being our third YOMDreams reward, we were feeling pretty swanky.

We were tired out, so began working our way back to the front.

We stopped to use the bathroom in UK (perhaps we had not seen this particular bathroom, and the small children would NOT let that happen!)

After changing Bitsy, DisneyGirl told her to "Stay where I can find you," while she used the facilities.

Meaning, of course, stay right here.

Bitsy decided she meant "Hide, and I'll find you."

So this is what Bitsy did:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0466-1.jpg

We meandered past Canada, where men in kilts were rockin' the house.

Doesn't that trek from World Showcase to the bus seem like a MILLION miles when you are tired. Sheeeeeeeesh.

Finally back at Pop, we collapsed.

Next up:

Back to Animal Kingdom,
Too hot to wait in line,
and the girls make a break for it....

micandminforever

07-02-2009, 05:05 PM

Great update.

akayek31

07-02-2009, 05:33 PM

I apparently missed a lot in the world showcase. I was on a mission for characters and did not look at all the wonderful things that made the countries unique. I will have to take the time next time to look around :)

Hedy

07-02-2009, 07:20 PM

I love the photos of you and your brood. I'll be curious to see the older pics of your brood after this trip.

DisneyMom5

07-04-2009, 07:54 PM

Great update.

Thanks! Sorry they are so few and far between!
I realized that we have THREE more days to write about, and I wonder what we did all that time! I'm tired just thinking about it. LOL

I apparently missed a lot in the world showcase. I was on a mission for characters and did not look at all the wonderful things that made the countries unique. I will have to take the time next time to look around :)

I KNOW! I see pics that others have taken, and think "I've never seen THAT." I want to explore even more this time.

I love the photos of you and your brood. I'll be curious to see the older pics of your brood after this trip.

They have grown SO much. It's shocking!

Thanks for reading everyone! :goodvibes

Cameo818

07-07-2009, 02:44 PM

I'm loving this trip report and the companion guide to food (Vittles A Go-Go)!

I am in awe of your skills with herding around 7 children. :worship: I only have two, and they're quite a handful at times, especially when they're excited about being somewhere. We haven't done the Disney experience with them yet, although I'm brainwashing them as best I can with Disney movies, clothing and toys. :rolleyes1

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that our finances can afford a trip to Disneyland sometime in 2010 or 2011. Then we'll start planning for the ultimate trip to WDW! It's one heck of a journey to Florida from Oregon (and expensive airplane tickets!), but I'm looking forward to seeing my little girls' excitement and joy when we finally do go.

Subscribing! Looking forward to the next update and I hope you're having a marvelous summer! popcorn::

DisneyMom5

07-08-2009, 10:56 AM

DisneyMom5

07-20-2009, 04:10 PM

Animal Kingdom
Sept. 24, 2007

[In an effort to get this report over with, I enlisted the help of Disneygirl,
and have several updates ready!] :cool1:

When we last left the Hicks, they were recovering from a soggy walk.

On this day, we were scheduled to go to Animal Kingdom,
for early entry,
and then have brunch at Donald’s Breakfastasauras,
the only restaurant we’d been to twice before,
and one that would be soon closing. :thumbsup2

The plan would have worked great,
if the Hicks had not mutinied against the Hick planner, namely ME.
:sad2:

Everyone decided that they DID NOT have another early entry in them,
and that they would be sleeping in.

I could deal with this....sort of.

I knew that it would complicate things, but I felt I could adapt,
overcome, and generally work around it. :wizard:

Ha ha ha ha ha ha....whew.

Instead, we joined the thronging hordes,
managed to see ONE attraction, eat,
and return to Pop Century for a nap.

Yup, that’s it.

But I’m getting ahead of mysef.

Ahem.

We headed to the Safari, only to find it was a 45 minute wait,
and the fastpass return time was during our ADR.

Sigh.

We then decided to do the Maharajah Jungle trek,
but on the way,
we decided to play some drums...

Princess K and the Inquisitor playing drums

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0489.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0490.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0491.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0492.jpg

...get the perfunctory shot of the tree

(while simultaneously avoiding DeVine, who I find scary beyond all reason)...

Tree

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0495-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0495.jpg

And then, of course, sit around while a bunch of our group used the bathroom...AGAIN...

Fountain

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0498.jpg

Then, we finally hit the trail.

A frog

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000203.jpg

Bats

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000211-1.jpg

Komodo Dragon

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0501.jpg

Wall Carvings

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0504.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0505.jpg

Statue

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0510.jpg

We then headed over to our late breakfast.

Meet and Greet Donald

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0516.jpg

Meet and Greet Goofy

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0517.jpg

Meet and Greet Pluto

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0519.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0518.jpg

Meet and Greet Mickey

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0520.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0522-2.jpg

More up next....

DisneyMom5

07-20-2009, 04:28 PM

Animal Kingdom cont., and a girls trip to MK.

After we ate (AND found the restroom, AGAIN)
we realized that there was still time before the Nemo show began.
We ran over there, and waited in line,
only to be told that the theater had reached capacity,
and the next show was not for 2 hours or something like that.
We were too hot and tired to wait around that area,
so we headed back to Africa to see if the safari was available.
Alas, it was a longer wait than before.
We could have gotten a fastpass, but didn’t care to stick around the park for 2 more hours.

We must have spent a lot more time in gift shops, because we noticed a lot more details.

Store Decorations

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0524.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0525.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0526.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0528.jpg

Tired, discouraged, and wilted from heat,
we gave up and headed back to Pop Century for a much needed,
air-conditioned nap.

Upon our arrival at our rooms,
we had a lovely surprise of some romantic swan towel animals.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0533.jpg

We took a nice nap, and then DisneyGirl and I
started to cautiously feel everyone out on going to another park.
No one was too interested,
and John and Mom seemed willing to stay with the kids and take them to the pools,
so DG and I took the opportunity to have a girl’s night at Magic Kingdom!

May I just say, I felt so wicked leaving most of my children and enjoying myself???

We got to the park right before a rather large downpour, but were heading for the trainstation,
where my newly made friend Slightly Goofy/Linda had offered to hold us spots for the Spectromagic parade.
After letting her know that our family wouldn’t be attending,
and having a lovely chat,
DG and I decided to board the train for Frontierland.

At the Train Station

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0534.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0535.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0536.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0537.jpg

We crossed back to Pirates of the Caribbean, and found NO line!
Apparently, everyone else was waiting patiently for the parade.

We then hit Jungle cruise, with minimal wait.

Jungle Cruise

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0538.jpg

It was there that I noticed a diamond was missing out of my anniversary ring!
Bwaaaaaaaah!!!

We then decided to sprint on over to the BTMRR and ride.
This ride ROCKS at night!

On our walk back, we realized that DG had left her purse on the ride.
DOH!

But, thankfully, the C M s at the ride had not turned in it yet,
and were expecting us to return.

Purse in hand, we treated ourselves to a dole whip, and a rootbeer float,
and leisurely strolled up main street towards the entrance,
while enjoying the Spectromagic parade.

We rested at the foot of the train station,
ate our treats, and decided that the Spectromagic parade wasn’t half bad,
if you weren’t crowded in by people and could sit farther back to enjoy it.

The first time I saw it, I had a panic attack from all the people pushing against me,
and had no desire to see it again.
This occasion changed my mind!

We left MK, happy at our stroller free experience,
and headed for the buses.

We were loaded on the bus, when a family followed us on,
and the dad was still outside, trying to fold their stroller.
Nothing he did worked, and the bus driver refused to let him on with it open,
and his family was getting extremely frustrated.

Finally, the bus driver told him to wait for the next bus,
and his whole family traipsed off again.

I felt really bad for him, as that was really embarrassing,
but I totally understand why they have that rule!

We got back to the hotel, and got a good night’s sleep,
as we had only two more days to go,
and plenty to do and see!

Next up:
Epcot...for the last time!

micandminforever

07-20-2009, 07:45 PM

It was great that you and DG got a girls night out. Sorry about your ring, but glad DG found her purse.

FairyGodmotherJen

07-22-2009, 01:22 PM

I just found you again! My grad classes are all but over, so I can now enjoy my last two weeks of summer vacation (and get in all the DIS time I missed). Love the TR - I think it's great that the two girls got to go and experience MK on your own. Stroller free is good every once in a while, isn't it?? ;)

DisneyMom5

07-23-2009, 03:49 PM

It was great that you and DG got a girls night out. Sorry about your ring, but glad DG found her purse.

The shameful thing is that I STILL haven't fixed that ring. Good thing I left my actual wedding ring home that trip.

I just found you again! My grad classes are all but over, so I can now enjoy my last two weeks of summer vacation (and get in all the DIS time I missed). Love the TR - I think it's great that the two girls got to go and experience MK on your own. Stroller free is good every once in a while, isn't it?? ;)

Hi! Glad you have a break for a couple of weeks. Dh wants to get back to school soon, though he doesn't look forward to the homework with his work schedule. :sad2:

Thanks for reading!

DisneyMom5

07-24-2009, 09:36 AM

Sept. 25, 2007
Epcot

When we last left the Hicks, they had attempted a second day at AK,
and the girls had taken an MK night to themselves.
The next morning was our second to last day at WDW.
We knew we wanted to end up our stay at MK, so we planned a day at Epcot,
complete with our first visit to Rose and Crown.

Since we had plenty of time to work with,
we returned to the Living Seas for another session with Crush.
This time, DangerBoy was the lucky recipient of a conversation with Crush.
This made his day!

Afterwards, we decided to visit Innoventions.
We save this for when we have extra time,
because on most days there are rides to ride and shows to see.
The group split up,
With Mom taking some to tour the “house of the future,”
John taking some to do the robot race/build a robot,
And Babycakes and I finding a comfy chair in which to nurse and nap.

Innoventions
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000223.jpg

Babycakes in a better mood

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000225.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000227.jpg

House of the FUTURE

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000231a.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000233.jpg

After this, we were ready for lunch.
I suggested returning to Sunshine Seasons, but John felt that since we were next to Electric Umbrella,
We might as well eat there.

Electric Umbrella
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000231-1.jpg

Years ago we had some really good sandwiches here, but now it is pretty boring fare.
We ended up eating too much, which was a shame, considering the food was so blah,
And paid for it later when faced with the excellent food at Rose and Crown!

We headed out for the world showcase, and took our time looking around.
I think we probably rode the Mexico and Norway rides again,
as we toured that direction,
and they are cool and dark. LOL

Time on your hands at WDW? Lucky there are so many stores in which to waste time and money!

Shopping in China (Nihou! - that's hello, in Chinese, and I have no idea how to spell it. LOL)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000246.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000251.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000252.jpg

Cool details in Italy.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000254.jpg

We stopped to take DisneyGirl’s traditional pic in front of the B&B window in France.

Traditional Beauty and the Beast picture
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000261.jpg

Finally, it was time for our Rose and Crown dinner.
The service here was excellent, and we really enjoyed our food,
what we could eat of it, considering we were still stuffed from lunch. Ugh.

Rose and Crown - Boys will be boys...with Princess K looking on.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0547.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0548.jpg

John, and his mini-me, the Inquisitor

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0549.jpg

Babycakes admiring her favorite person

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0550-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0563.jpg

Some more good looking girls

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0551.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0554.jpg

The beautiful restaurant

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0555.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0559.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0561.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0562.jpg

Sufficiently full (and then some) we decided to waddle back to the buses.
Mom and I took an evening tour of the resort, and got some pics.

At the hotel - Big bowling pins

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0564.jpg

Mom's favorite decade

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0573.jpg

And that was the end of our second to last day at WDW. :sad1:

Next up: The last day at Disney for 2007. SNIFF.

akayek31

07-24-2009, 10:29 AM

DisneyMom5

07-24-2009, 10:56 AM

DD and I spent the day at Magic Kingdom when DS was being annoying. We met the Fairies after a long long wait. Did you guys stay in the 50's room? We did in May but when we go in December we are staying in preferred. I think we may get an ADR at Rose and Crown. Not sure yet :) Can't wait to read more.

We did stay in the 50s. I love it there.

We will be at All Star Sports this time, due to a change in trip dates. I'll explain more about that in my pre-trip report when I start it.

Definately try the Rose and Crown. We really liked it. Dh said we HAD to go again this time.
Thanks for reading!

FairyGodmotherJen

07-24-2009, 03:24 PM

DisneyMom5

07-24-2009, 03:47 PM

Rose and Crown is one of those places I've wanted to try. I think we might for our Epcot night in 2010. It depends on how exciting the menu is - we have a very large group, and some very non-adventurous diners. :rotfl2: Glad to hear it worked well for you!

We might stay at Pop on our first night (pre-package) in 2010 since we're driving. We'd like to get there early enough on Saturday (package will start Sunday) to enjoy the resort and veg after the long drive. I know you drive from MI - we'll be coming from the south side of Indy. The estimate I got via the AAA driving website was 19 hours (driving only, of course). Does that sound about right to you?

Actually, that sounds long. I think it says 18 for us, and we figure at least 22. Is it taking you down 65 to 24 to 75, etc? That's the best way.
You are probably3-3.5 from us, right? (MI border)

If you need a place to stop, I highly recommend some hotels in Chattanooga, though I know that's not very far for you. We always stop there.

Anyway, R & C isn't too adventurous, if you like fish and chips or steak, they have that.

SlightlyGoofy

07-26-2009, 10:57 AM

FairyGodmotherJen

07-26-2009, 07:53 PM

Sarah, how could anyone think that you are NOT persistent? Especially with 5, that you claim, although some of us know that you have more stashed away? :rotfl: Some might think you are striving for perfection but having met your oldest daughter I know that you achieved that the first time out of the bat and are just on a winning streak.:love:

My grandkids just love the Lego store as do I. My favorite part is getting a cold one from the next door McD and sitting while they play.:goodvibes

I booked another week on our trip, thanks to FD. We will be at Music (hoping to get back into Sports though) from November 29th thru December 13th. How I would love to have some children to tour the lights with. They are always brighter through the eyes of a child.

FairyGodmotherJen, I live just south of you and it takes me about 16 hours of driving to get to DW. I usually drive past Atlanta (about halfway) to about 700 miles the first day and then get up early and get to the resort a bit after noon, unpack and then head out for the monorail tour and EWP and Wishes from the Poly beach. This year I am taking it easy and only driving before Atlanta since it would put me going through on Sunday, an easy day and resting that first night. If you are using the GPS just remember that when you get on the Turnpike you want to take the back way into DW to save going out on 1-4 etc. If you are staying Value or Moderate it will put you nearly at your resort. Have a safe and wonderful trip!

Slightly Goofy

Actually, that sounds long. I think it says 18 for us, and we figure at least 22. Is it taking you down 65 to 24 to 75, etc? That's the best way.
You are probably3-3.5 from us, right? (MI border)

If you need a place to stop, I highly recommend some hotels in Chattanooga, though I know that's not very far for you. We always stop there.

Anyway, R & C isn't too adventurous, if you like fish and chips or steak, they have that.

Thank you, thank you, thank you both for making me feel a little better!! We're actually debating several different scenerios, but it's good to know that 19 hours is a pretty high-end estimate. It might only be a few hours, but that will make a lot of difference. I don't know if my kids can do 700 miles in one go, though - we would probably do drive-through for breakfast and a longer picnic lunch at a rest stop. But we'll see. We were actually thinking about taking off once DH got home from work on Thurs. and just getting three hours or so under our belts that night, stay at a hotel and get up and going quickly on Friday, and then finish it out on Saturday (we really would like to do something that day...Wishes from the beach sounds great. :cool1: We won't have tickets, but between that and DTD I think we'll be ok. I guess we still have time to plan! Thanks again (and I'm really not trying to hijack your TR!!)

SlightlyGoofy

07-27-2009, 09:32 AM

FairyGodmotherJen, I am sorry, I saw the Indy Meet thing (I was at one once) and just assumed Indianapolis for some odd reason. Yes, you are much further away than I. I am in the Columbus area. Have you driven on a long trip with the children before? If my memory serves me right, it has been many years for me, I used to pack the car ready to go for when my hubby got off work and we would take off. Stopping and going INTO a restaurant gave everyone a chance to stretch their legs a bit and change the mood, along with a few diapers. It was a lot easier for us to make time while they slept but that was before in car dvd players. I love books on tape also. Keeps me alert for driving.

The Poly beach thing is a very relaxing way to spend your first night and you can pick up some food at Capt Cooks to take to the beach while you wait.

SG

DisneyMom5

07-27-2009, 10:02 AM

Thanks for the good wishes Linda! :wizard:

FGJ - I think you are thinking out your trip very well. If you map things out and find yourself in Chattanooga at bedtime, I highly recommend this hotel:

good hotel in Chattanooga (http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-chattanooga-tennessee-TN359?sid=5$C1M.ifCuSgdoP.10&sarea=85108&sname=Chattanooga&sstate=TN&scountry=US&sradius=40.23&slat=35.0459&slon=-85.3099&schain=A&exp=&scity=&sort=&type=&map=n&nroom=1&nadult1=1&nchild1=0&nadult2=1&nchild2=0&nadult3=1&nchild3=0&nadult4=1&nchild4=0&nadult5=1&nchild5=0)

It is right on 24, almost to I-75.

Thanks for continuing to read. Only one day of this trip left to report, then I'm off to do a pre-trip.

FairyGodmotherJen

07-27-2009, 01:58 PM

SlightlyGoofy

07-29-2009, 06:55 PM

Just dropping by to say good night to a family of great kids!:love:

Slightly Goofy

DisneyMom5

08-18-2009, 11:17 AM

The last day at Disney for 2007. SNIFF.
Sept. 26, 2007
Magic Kingdom

We have come to a crucial point in this two year, ongoing trip report!!!
I have to finish…because we leave in TEN DAYS!
Anywhoooo…this is the last day of the trip, so here goes….
When we last left the Hicks, they were preparing for their last day at WDW.
And where is the best place to spend your last day???
Magic Kingdom, of course!

Entering MK

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"We're walking right down the middle of Main St. USA..."

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Bitsy

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I belive we took a few rides on Buzz Lightyear, possible Space mtn. again, and then...
We decided to take another spin on the TTA, one of our favs.

View from the TTA

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000312.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000380a.jpg

While we were, I think, using the bathroom,
Danger Boy and the Chef went to visit Brer Bear, and Brer Fox,
who they now recognized due to our first ride on Splash Mtn.

Brer Bear and Brer Fox

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0576.jpg

We then had lunch at Crystal Palace.
We’ve eaten here for all three meals, and have liked them all!
[Though the puffed French toast at breakfast is still MY favorite!]

Outside Crystal Palace

[Interesting details on a lamp post]

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The Castle from Crystal Palace

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At Crystal Palace

Is that Pooh???

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All in a good mood

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Mom even still likes us! :thumbsup2

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Meet and Greet Piglet

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Meet and Greet Eeyore

[Eyeore is my favorite, but he was really, really sweaty!!! UGH.]

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Meet and Greet Pooh

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[More next post...]

DisneyMom5

08-18-2009, 11:45 AM

Magic Kingdom cont.

***I was just reminded that at some point before lunch,
we decided to ride Small World again,
Mom's favorite,
and as we were heading there, we paused by Peter Pan to see the wait time.
Since it was too long, we continued on our way...
all of us, except Princess K,
who was officially LOST!!!

She remembered to stay in one spot, though,
and a mom asked her if she was lost,
and summoned a Cast Member.

K was able to tell her own name and age, who she was with,
what they were wearing, and where they were heading,
and the Cast Member saw us there, and brought her over.

We thought that was pretty good for a four year old!

It wasn't scary for us, because we didn't know she was lost! :rolleyes:
But K had a good cry.
The Cast Member allowed her to pick a pin off her lanyard, and, because she was looking longingly also, allowed Bitsy to pick one too.

[I've been reviewing WDW safety with them this week,
and told them getting lost just to get another pin is NOT happening. LOL]***

After Crystal Palace, we found ourselves in Adventureland.

Over by Aloha Isle (the Dole Whip place), we found these cave drawings carved near a bench.
My kids call it “Curtis was here,” a nod to their now cancelled favorite show, Phil of the Future, which featured Curtis, the caveman.

Curtis (found this pic on Google)

http://www.jpmanoux.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/normal_Curtis%20the%20Caveman.jpg

Curtis was here:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000386-1.jpg

Dangerboy decided he wanted to see the Swiss Family Tree,
so John took him.
While we were waiting, we heard a rumor that Jack Sparrow was in port next to the Aloha Isle.
We decided to check it out.
I don't think this meet and greet still exists, but it was really cool.
There was all kinds of pirate stuff in the waiting area,
then you were ushered back in small groups to a curtained off room,
where Jack was in residence.

Meet and Greet Jack Sparrow

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Jack telling DisneyGirl to stay where he can see her, because he didn’t trust her:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0585.jpg

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http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0587.jpg

As we were leaving, I said "Thanks, Jack. Oh, excuse me...CAPTAIN JACK!"
And as the door was closing, the Inquisitor pipes up:
"We call the MONKEY Jack!"

:lmao:

We met up with John, and headed to Frontierland.
Princess K decided she was big and brave enough to ride Big Thunder Mtn.,
but when we got there it was closed due to an unknown reason. Hmmmmm...

So, John and the big kids decided to go on Splash Mtn. again.
So the rest of us hung out at the Splash Mtn. play area, which rocks, because it’s covered!

Playing at the Splash Mountain play area

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We then made another trip to the Christmas Shoppe,
which was ill timed, because Mom bought ornaments for all of her 11 grandchildren,
and had to haul them around all day since we were leaving the next day and
couldn’t ship them to the resort.

Word to the wise…buy ornaments early in the week. :sad2:

Ye Old Christmas Shoppe

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http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000315.jpg

After this we rode Pirates of C, and made mom hide her ornaments in the parked stroller,
because we wouldn't let her haul them on the ride.

Then, it was time to head home.

"Marching down the Main Street, heading for the exit, everybody’s going there, la-la-la-la-la. "

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0592.jpg

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Princess K's new friend:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IMG_0599.jpg

We spent a little time in the Exhibition hall…because we HAD time to do it.
It's so cold and quiet in there.
We've actually seen people taking a nap in there! LOL

Being in a movie

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http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000400.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/disneymom5/IM000401.jpg

As we prepared to leave, I looked around me, gave a big sigh,
and realized that my big, luxurious, long vacation dream had come true…
there was not ONE single thing that I still wanted to do at WDW.
We had seen and done everything on our list.

Mission complete, we headed back to the hotel, to pack up, and prepare for our trip back to Michigan.

So that's it. Finished in time to start a pre-trip for TEN DAYS FROM NOW!!!

Our other big news?

We're expecting baby #8 in January. :cloud9:

We'll have an ultrasound the day after returning from WDW,
so we won't be buying blue or pink ears while there,
but we're very excited! :banana:

Off to start a pre-trip. I'll post the link here, and in my siggy when I get it started.

Thanks all for being faithful readers!

whogirl'smom

08-18-2009, 07:08 PM

Hooray for you, Sarah! Another little Disney fan, awww!

And hooray for finishing the trip report before the two year mark...:rotfl2:

DisneyMom5

08-18-2009, 07:15 PM

Here's a link to the Pre-trip Report.
I promise, with the help of DisneyGirl, I will finish this one much quicker!

PTR: Hicks on Holiday 3: That There's the Second Biggest Rodent We Ever Seen (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2261080)

Hooray for you, Sarah! Another little Disney fan, awww!

And hooray for finishing the trip report before the two year mark...:rotfl2:

Thanks for the good wishes and encouragement! :cool1:

FairyGodmotherJen

08-18-2009, 07:43 PM

Great TR - it doesn't matter how long it took you. ;)

Congrats on the big news!! You are a stronger woman than I am...:rotfl2:

Heading over to the PTR....

SlightlyGoofy

08-19-2009, 01:30 PM

What wonderful news! The only thing better than knowing a child is coming into this world is to know that it is coming to a loving family who will care for it well. I am the oldest of 8 so I think 8 is a pretty good number. :love:

How do you keep your children so unspoiled and enjoying the little things that make life worth living? However, you do a great job. :wizard:

My youngest sister (nearly 40) is having bariatric surgery and I have promised her a sisters only trip to DW, what else? She went when she was in high school and seems to love the place nearly as much as I do. :thumbsup2

Also, another one of my grandchildren has escaped from their situation. I am in hope that they will learn that they have grandparents who love them and will show up on my doorstep one of these fine days.

Until then I will just enjoy pictures and stories of happy, healthy children and dream of future trips when we might meet again.

I do not blame Captain Jack for keeping an eye on your dd. Sweet innocent looking folks are always the most dangerous. :rotfl:

SG/Linda