What's the Big Deal With Staying On Property Anyway? *Goodbyes* 12/17 p.114 [Archive] - Page 4 - The DIS Discussion Forums

carissanboys

05-03-2009, 05:47 PM

We liked everything about it EXCEPT for the part where he runs across your shoulders. That part really does hurt :headache:

:scared1:

Great update Carissa. I love that Stitch ran off with Stitch.:rotfl:

We didn't get any Photopass pics our first trip, but I didn't realize you had to ask them. Other theme parks they attack you.:laughing:

It's just too difficult to get all 3 of my boys to pose for pictures!

Whew, glad you got Stitch back. The picture of you and Sully is just great. I'd definitely say that Space Mountain is much scarier than Haunted Mansion. Give me grim grinning ghosts over hills in the dark any day!

We shall see if I agree with you soon. :rolleyes1

Cute pictures with Stitch!!! WOW Carissa, I am anxious to hear whether or not you braved Space Mountain!:goodvibes

Thanks Diane - I'll have an update tomorrow. :goodvibes

Another wonderful update Carissa! Stich is so crazy!!!! Glad you got your Stich back!! BTW, how did get Stich if you don't mind me asking???? I wouldn't mind bringing him along with us!

I got Stitch from Kathy - KathyRN137 - who got him from Buzz - MontanaDisneyFan - who got him from Heidi - blue_river (is that the correct order Heidi??). Now he's out in California with Keith - Goofster57. There's more of an explanation at the end of my PTR. :thumbsup2

Nice update...love the family picture w/ Stitch...he is a crazy character.

Did you ever read my story in my June TR from last yr about him scaring the carp out of me? in the end it was quite :lmao:

Looking forward to which you thought was scarier Space or HM....

No - I didn't read that! I'll have to go check it out. :)

liznboys

05-03-2009, 07:34 PM

Great pictures!! :)

Can't wait to hear which is scarier, HM or SM!

Happydog

05-03-2009, 08:13 PM

Hey There just caught up these last pages and just laughed with the stitch story! How funny -- so IN character for that CM to "steal" the other stitch :lmao: I guess that was the most fun he had all day !! Cute.

And those are some good photos! I like the ones you made. Your pics are great too! I am glad you are taking photos of Port Orleans.

Looking forward to more ! popcorn::

VAisforDisneyLvrs

05-03-2009, 08:16 PM

Up Next - Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain - Which is Scarier???

All caught up! Space Mountain is DEFINITELY scarier than Haunted Mansion!!:scared1:

I know you have pictures of your family at the beginning, but it wasn't until I saw those family shots with Sorcerer Mickey that I realized just how much your boys look like your husband. Too cute!

wahoostampingirl

05-03-2009, 10:29 PM

I just started reading your TR tonight and I'm really enjoying it. We drove down from Northern VA (Winchester) in Jan. and we ate at the same Cracker Barrel in Emporia. We must have had the same waiter because it took us forever too and my dh commented that we were only stopping at fast food places from now on. :eek:

We've stayed at both Windsor Hills and POR. I loved our short time at POR, but you can't beat Windsor Hills for the amount of space and amenities for the money. I would stay in either place again.

lazydoxy66

05-03-2009, 11:19 PM

:wave:

I saw you on another TR and decided to pop over and read your's.

You are doing a great job. I love all the pictures especially of your cute boys.

My DH and I stayed at POR last Sept. I loved it. I thought the food court had some great food. I really like the boat to DTD too! We took the buses and didn't have any problems.

You have some good tips on here. Keep up the good work.

jjk

05-04-2009, 05:13 AM

Just read your report so far and loved it :thumbsup2

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 10:23 AM

Great pictures!! :)

Can't wait to hear which is scarier, HM or SM!

We shall soon find out. :thumbsup2

Hey There just caught up these last pages and just laughed with the stitch story! How funny -- so IN character for that CM to "steal" the other stitch :lmao: I guess that was the most fun he had all day !! Cute.

And those are some good photos! I like the ones you made. Your pics are great too! I am glad you are taking photos of Port Orleans.

Looking forward to more ! popcorn::

Thanks! :goodvibes We had a lot of fun with Stitch on this trip.

All caught up! Space Mountain is DEFINITELY scarier than Haunted Mansion!!:scared1:

I know you have pictures of your family at the beginning, but it wasn't until I saw those family shots with Sorcerer Mickey that I realized just how much your boys look like your husband. Too cute!

Our youngest is definitely a mini Chuck. ;)

I just started reading your TR tonight and I'm really enjoying it. We drove down from Northern VA (Winchester) in Jan. and we ate at the same Cracker Barrel in Emporia. We must have had the same waiter because it took us forever too and my dh commented that we were only stopping at fast food places from now on. :eek:

We've stayed at both Windsor Hills and POR. I loved our short time at POR, but you can't beat Windsor Hills for the amount of space and amenities for the money. I would stay in either place again.

:welcome: Glad to have you along! Yes, Windsor Hills is a really great place - especially when you have a bigger family.

:wave:

I saw you on another TR and decided to pop over and read your's.

You are doing a great job. I love all the pictures especially of your cute boys.

My DH and I stayed at POR last Sept. I loved it. I thought the food court had some great food. I really like the boat to DTD too! We took the buses and didn't have any problems.

You have some good tips on here. Keep up the good work.

:welcome: Hello! I recognize you from "around". :goodvibes Thanks for coming over to read.

Just read your report so far and loved it :thumbsup2

:welcome: Always happy to have new readers. :cool1:

KathyRN137

05-04-2009, 10:51 AM

We liked everything about it EXCEPT for the part where he runs across your shoulders. That part really does hurt :headache:

Oh, and don't forget his burrito-breath!! phew!

Kathy

MagicShell

05-04-2009, 10:54 AM

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 11:10 AM

Sully and I were on our way to Haunted Mansion. We had never done this attraction before so another first for us.

There was no wait at all when we got there. I stopped to take a few photos along the way (of course!).

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4545.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4547.jpg

Okay - so you all know the answer to which is scarier - Haunted Mansion or Space Mountain. Haunted Mansion isn't scary at all!! Well, I'm sure Owen and Connor would think it was, but to the rest of us - just silly fun.

I don't think I'd do HM again. It was okay, but really not my thing. I'm glad I tried it once. I think Sully felt the same way about it.

We still had some time to kill before our meet up at Space Mountain so we headed over to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to see what the wait was. Along the way we spotted Donald - who happens to be Sully's favorite character!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4550.jpg

Now which way do we go?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4551.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4552.jpg

When we got to BTMR I think the wait time said 10 - 20 minutes, but it really wasn't that long. I don't think the line ever stopped moving. We really enjoyed this one again.

And then Sully talked me into doing Splash Mountain. We did it on our first visit. Again - the wait wasn't very long as it was still early in the day (it was probably still within the first hour of the park opening - you can get so much done in that first hour!).

We got pretty soaked when the log coming down the big drop splashed us. This is Sully's thoughts of the ride at the end:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4553.jpg

I don't know why I took this next one.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4554.jpg

A very poor rednecked photo (Sully and I are in the back):

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4555.jpg

After a quick bathroom break it was time to meet up with Chuck and the boys. While they were gone, they did Winnie the Pooh, IASW, and Peter Pan.

Chuck stayed with Owen and Connor while Sully and I rode Space Mountain using our fastpasses. Those "cars/spaceships" are pretty small, aren't they? :scared1:

I don't know that I would classify SM as "scary", but I think once is enough for me. The biggest issue is how much jerking around it does on your body. My neck was sore the next day.

Sully and I were very excited that we could now say we did the "triple mountain whammy"! :cool1:

Sully and Chuck then went to ride SM and I got Owen and Connor some snacks. Oh - and Stitch too.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4559.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4560.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4557.jpg

Owen had Dibs while the rest of us had a Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich - yummm!

When Chuck and Sully joined us, I got Sully a snack. We also took time to put sunscreen on as the sun was getting pretty intense.

We then decided to do another first - ride Tomorrowland Transit Authority! We all really enjoyed it. :goodvibes

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4561.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4562.jpg

Even though we'd just had snacks, we were getting hungry for lunch. We decided to head over to Columbia Harbour House, but took some special pictures along the way.

Stitch demanded we take this one:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4563.jpg

This trip was about taking time to notice things we had been in too much of a hurry to see before.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4564.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4565.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4567.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4568.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4569.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4570.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4571.jpg

We finally made it to CHH and I told Chuck to take the boys and find a table upstairs. I thought I took pictures at lunch, but I can't seem to find any. The only notes I took say "fish basket". :confused3 It was nice and quiet upstairs - that I remember!

Up Next - A Birthday Surprise (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31693357&postcount=808)

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 11:15 AM

Oh, and don't forget his burrito-breath!! phew!

Kathy

Now I'm kind of wishing I'd seen it! :rotfl:

I have been out of town for a week so I had to catch up. What a great way to spend your birthday! The opening show at MK is great, isn't it. I got to see it for the first time in Dec. That was one of my favorite parts of our trip. Your family photo with Stitch was great.

Thanks! It was a great birthday! :thumbsup2

KathyRN137

05-04-2009, 11:22 AM

Oh Carissa! Say it isn't so!! :eek: I just love the Haunted Mansion!!

So proud of you and Sully for getting the Triple Mountain Whammy under your belts!! Of course you got soaked an Splash... you were in the last row in your log!! :lmao:

Billy and the girls are quite bummed out that Space will be closed for its refurb during our visit. :sad2: Thank goodness, though, that Hall of Presidents will be open for Billy.... we'd never hear the end of it!!

I, too, wish that the Stitch attraction was better... but I guess they were trying to recycle as many of the "Alien" effects as possible. (Billy loves it, BTW!) :stitch2: He laughs like crazy when everyone reacts to Stitch (and especially to the burrito breath!)

Boys!

Kathy

mousescrapper

05-04-2009, 11:32 AM

I got Stitch from Kathy - KathyRN137 - who got him from Buzz - MontanaDisneyFan - who got him from Heidi - blue_river (is that the correct order Heidi??). Now he's out in California with Keith - Goofster57. There's more of an explanation at the end of my PTR. :thumbsup2

my DS Micahel wants to get in on this and take him w/ us next year....is this a special club or can anyone join in?

No - I didn't read that! I'll have to go check it out. :)

I scrolled thru my June TR and found the post about Stitch...it's down just a little way.

J-
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1540090&page=30

kimnvbva

05-04-2009, 11:36 AM

Lifelong_Dreamer

05-04-2009, 11:36 AM

Yum! Got to love this Mickey ice cream sandwiches.

Isn't it nice to slow down a bit and notice the details? :goodvibes

Lifelong_Dreamer

05-04-2009, 11:39 AM

Hey, Guys.
I am very new here, from Virginia Beach. You will love it here! I have lived here for 20 years! I know it's rare! Planning a trip in Sept 09 and staying at POR. Can't decide if I should upgrade to WL or stay at POR. Should I be stressing over this? Everyone says that the room doesn't match matter since you are never there, but I want our family to have a great experience! I need help! Is it worth the extra $100 a day to stay at WL. How was POR? Help!

Kim in VB

Hey Kim! I can tell you that we absolutely adored our stay at WL. I dream of staying there again. I haven't stayed at POR so I will leave it to the others to give their opinions but to me WL is definitely worth it!

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 11:48 AM

Oh Carissa! Say it isn't so!! :eek: I just love the Haunted Mansion!!
Kathy

I know my comment will shock many. :rolleyes1

I scrolled thru my June TR and found the post about Stitch...it's down just a little way.

J-
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1540090&page=30

Awesome! I'll check it out in a minute. :thumbsup2

Hey, Guys.
I am very new here, from Virginia Beach. You will love it here! I have lived here for 20 years! I know it's rare! Planning a trip in Sept 09 and staying at POR. Can't decide if I should upgrade to WL or stay at POR. Should I be stressing over this? Everyone says that the room doesn't match matter since you are never there, but I want our family to have a great experience! I need help! Is it worth the extra $100 a day to stay at WL. How was POR? Help!

Kim in VB

:welcome: Kim! Well, I've never heard of anyone not loving POR. I don't think any other resort can beat the grounds there. I'm sure the rooms themselves are probably better at WL, but I've never stayed so I can't help you there. Maybe someone else who's been to both can chime in. :goodvibes

Yum! Got to love this Mickey ice cream sandwiches.

Isn't it nice to slow down a bit and notice the details? :goodvibes

Yes! Our overall visit felt much more relaxing this time around, although we were still exhausted by the end.

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 11:50 AM

I scrolled thru my June TR and found the post about Stitch...it's down just a little way.

J-
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1540090&page=30

Just read it. What great interactions you guys had that day! :thumbsup2 That Stitch sure is a crazy one! :rotfl:

cjackearl

05-04-2009, 12:20 PM

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 12:28 PM

Hi Carissa. You guys got a lot done this morning. Makes me feel good about trying to make as many rope drops as possible.

I don't know why but your notes reading just "fish basket" made me giggle.:laughing: I'm looking forward to trying the tuna sandwich.

I really think getting there at opening is the way to beat the crowds. I think even at the busiest times of year, if you get there at opening and do the most popular rides first and use FP wisely, you can still do most of the things you want. :thumbsup2

I think I got the fish basket because they didn't have any fish for kids and Sully really wanted the fish. So he got the chicken nugget basket and I got the fish basket and shared with him. Oh the sacrifices we mothers make! ;) I've heard the tuna sandwich is awesome. :thumbsup2

torsie24

05-04-2009, 12:33 PM

blue_river

05-04-2009, 01:43 PM

No more HM?? :eek: That's just a MUST do!! :laughing:

I found the same thing with SM and spend most of my time trying to brace myself from being jerked too hard.

Mmmmmmmmmm.....Mickey Ice Creams!!! :woohoo:

That's one of the first treats I'm buying myself when we go this summer!

Great photos CAR :thumbsup2

BrooklynnsMommy

05-04-2009, 01:53 PM

I will definitely be getting a Mickey ice cream sandwich when we go in July. It looked extremely yummy. I am now craving one so I may have to run to the store and buy a plain old rectangle ice cream sandwich to substitute.

liznboys

05-04-2009, 01:58 PM

HM is one of my favorites!!

Those SM cars are small, and a tad tricky to get into and out of I find. Maybe because I have long legs. I always feel like I'm putting on a show for the people around me.

Eating upstairs at CHH is one of our favorite things to do.

You had a fabulous MK morning!! :cloud9:

DisneyJo

05-04-2009, 02:13 PM

I think that Space is jerky too, hope it will be better after the rehab :thumbsup2 Oh and I've never been on Stitch either :rotfl:

That mickey sandwich did look nice :goodvibes

Lady Lallie

05-04-2009, 02:18 PM

I'm hoping that Space Mountain will be a lot smoother after the rehab. I don't ride it because it is so jerky.

I love love love Haunted Mansion. It's one of my favorites, but that is the great thing about Disney. Something for everyone! :thumbsup2

Goofster57

05-04-2009, 03:55 PM

Another great update Carissa, well except not having the food porn from lunch...(you rookie...jk/ LY/MI)

The TTA rocks, I really miss the People Mover out here at Disneyland, it was always a nice relaxing ride in the late afternoon.

Glad you guys stopped and smelled the roses along the way I think a lot of people miss that small detail of a Disney park becasue they are in such a hurry.

mommytothreeboys

05-04-2009, 04:12 PM

I too LOVE HM! All my kids do as well so it's a must-do here!

Isn't it awful getting older? I felt the same way about being jerked around on some of the rides...never used to bother me before! :sad2: My poor old body can't take it!

YUMMMM! Mickey Ice Cream! It just tastes better at WDW!

Jeff got the tuna at CHH and enjoyed it. The upstairs was closed when we were there...it was later at night. I was bummed cause I wanted to sit up there. Glad you got to enjoy it!

I missed that wishing well this time...stink! Isn't it fun to take some time to do the little things that make Disney what it is...not just an amusement park? Awesome Sword in the Stone pics! :goodvibes

jmskinner

05-04-2009, 04:32 PM

Great update!

Love your picture of the horse drawn carriage there at HM, or maybe it should be the horseless drawn carriage.:laughing:

I know why you took that photo on Splash Mountain, the logs were really backed up.

Isn't TTA just the best. :thumbsup2

carissanboys

05-04-2009, 06:19 PM

Yay for the "triple mountain whammy" because of the SM rehab I wont be able to do this until 2011 :sad2: I have done it at DL though, but I'd love to ride WDW SM as I never have!

MMMM, the ice cream sandwich looks yummy!

Looking forward to the next installment!

I'm glad I got to ride SM before it closed for the refurbishment. :thumbsup2

No more HM?? :eek: That's just a MUST do!! :laughing:

I found the same thing with SM and spend most of my time trying to brace myself from being jerked too hard.

Mmmmmmmmmm.....Mickey Ice Creams!!! :woohoo:

That's one of the first treats I'm buying myself when we go this summer!

Great photos CAR :thumbsup2

Thanks Heidi. Will I lose all of my readers if I say that I just wasn't that impressed with HM and don't get why everyone loves it so?? :rolleyes1

I will definitely be getting a Mickey ice cream sandwich when we go in July. It looked extremely yummy. I am now craving one so I may have to run to the store and buy a plain old rectangle ice cream sandwich to substitute.

They are sooooooo good! The ones from the store don't taste nearly as good. ;)

This was taken on 2nd trip and it was my avatar until recently:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%20January%202008/Disney2/IMG_3200.jpg

HM is one of my favorites!!

Those SM cars are small, and a tad tricky to get into and out of I find. Maybe because I have long legs. I always feel like I'm putting on a show for the people around me.

Eating upstairs at CHH is one of our favorite things to do.

You had a fabulous MK morning!! :cloud9:

There was an older man a few cars in front of us who needed A LOT of helping getting in and out. I was amazed he rode. :scared1:

I think that Space is jerky too, hope it will be better after the rehab :thumbsup2 Oh and I've never been on Stitch either :rotfl:

That mickey sandwich did look nice :goodvibes

I guess I'll have to try it after the rehab. :rolleyes1

I'm hoping that Space Mountain will be a lot smoother after the rehab. I don't ride it because it is so jerky.

I love love love Haunted Mansion. It's one of my favorites, but that is the great thing about Disney. Something for everyone! :thumbsup2

Very true. :thumbsup2

Another great update Carissa, well except not having the food porn from lunch...(you rookie...jk/ LY/MI)

The TTA rocks, I really miss the People Mover out here at Disneyland, it was always a nice relaxing ride in the late afternoon.

Glad you guys stopped and smelled the roses along the way I think a lot of people miss that small detail of a Disney park becasue they are in such a hurry.

I will make it up to you Oh Great Trip Report Writer :worship: soon with my food porn from our meal at Kona.

I too LOVE HM! All my kids do as well so it's a must-do here!

Isn't it awful getting older? I felt the same way about being jerked around on some of the rides...never used to bother me before! :sad2: My poor old body can't take it!

YUMMMM! Mickey Ice Cream! It just tastes better at WDW!

Jeff got the tuna at CHH and enjoyed it. The upstairs was closed when we were there...it was later at night. I was bummed cause I wanted to sit up there. Glad you got to enjoy it!

I missed that wishing well this time...stink! Isn't it fun to take some time to do the little things that make Disney what it is...not just an amusement park? Awesome Sword in the Stone pics! :goodvibes

Thanks Missy! Who said I was getting older??? :rolleyes1

Great update!

Love your picture of the horse drawn carriage there at HM, or maybe it should be the horseless drawn carriage.:laughing:

I know why you took that photo on Splash Mountain, the logs were really backed up.

Isn't TTA just the best. :thumbsup2

I think you're right about the picture! You're so smart. :thumbsup2

MeMom

05-04-2009, 06:32 PM

It would have been cute if the CM who controls the sword would have been there and let Stitch be the one to pull it out after the other boys tried. I'd love to see their faces if that happened!

Would it make a real world ice cream sandwich taste even a little bit better if you used a Mickey head cookie cutter to shape it?

Probably not.
Disney ones just taste better period.

Now I'm gonna have to youtube tonight in order to hear the phrase 'triple mountain whammy'!!!

momrek06

05-04-2009, 07:15 PM

Carissa, another great update!! :surfweb:

Well I have to say like many of the other posters, that I absolutely love HM!!! :love: I ride it each and every time I am at DL (sometimes 2-3x)!! I also think the HM/NBC overlay at DL is AMAZING!!! I am not sure if WDW does the overlay. :confused: There is also a hidden Donald Duck in the HM in DL...that we just finally found!!! :donald:

Splash Mtn is awesome although we have not gone on it yet at DL... :blush: I am not a huge fan of walking around in wet clothes all day...we are waiting for a real sweltering hot day to go on it. WDW Splash is fabulous!!! :woohoo:

Space Mtn...nope, rode it ONCE in WDW and never again...same for the DL Matterhorn...it was soooo fast and herky jerky...:sad2:

:love: MICKEY BARS!!!!!!!! :love:

mommytothreeboys

05-04-2009, 07:34 PM

Thanks Missy! Who said I was getting older??? :rolleyes1

LOL! My bad...you and I aren't getting older, the rides are just getting jerkier! :rotfl: That's our story and we're sticking to it!::yes::

Happydog

05-04-2009, 08:32 PM

I really think getting there at opening is the way to beat the crowds. I think even at the busiest times of year, if you get there at opening and do the most popular rides first and use FP wisely, you can still do most of the things you want. :thumbsup2

I think I got the fish basket because they didn't have any fish for kids and Sully really wanted the fish. So he got the chicken nugget basket and I got the fish basket and shared with him. Oh the sacrifices we mothers make! ;) I've heard the tuna sandwich is awesome. :thumbsup2

Your comments about rope drop make good sense and I think you are right too ... or that is what I am telling myself for this June trip! :laughing: Your day at MK looks like it truly was a great one. :thumbsup2 We had Dream fast passes back in Nov and rode Space Mountain 6 times in one day... talk about head spin!!! :faint: I will be curious to see how it is when we go in December -- if it is different after the refurbishment.

Looking forward to more posts! popcorn::

Charleston Princess

05-04-2009, 09:58 PM

Carissa, it looks like you already got plenty of ribbing about the Haunted Mansion, so I won't say too much...but it is one of my favorite rides EVER! :rolleyes:

Woo hoo for the Triple Mountain Whammy! Stacy would be so proud of you! :laughing:

I may have to add Sword in the Stone pics to my list -- your boys are adorable trying to pull it out.

You certainly made a lot of us crave those Mickey ice cream sandwiches today -- they would probably be sold out right now if we all were there. :lmao:

MaryAz

05-04-2009, 10:25 PM

Fun update, always good when you can spend one on one time! Great pics.

carrieannie

05-04-2009, 11:04 PM

Hey Carissa! I have alot to catch up on! :surfweb: it helps if I get my head out of Crackbook once in a while. :sad2:

fun4me

05-05-2009, 12:32 PM

Hi Carissa. I am enjoying your trip report. I am also a mother of three boys(5,11 & 14). Our first trip is planned for October on my 38th bday! :dance3: We will also be staying at POR. I can't wait to read the rest of your TR. I am taking notes. :thumbsup2

shawna1041

05-05-2009, 01:37 PM

I am really enjoying your trip report. I also LOVE LOVE LOVE that you put links on the first message. That saves so much time when reading the trip reports.

VAisforDisneyLvrs

05-05-2009, 01:52 PM

I am really enjoying your trip report. I also LOVE LOVE LOVE that you put links on the first message. That saves so much time when reading the trip reports.

Yes! :thumbsup2 I totally agree-Can you tell me how to do it, or where to find out how to do it?? I want to do the same on my report.

carissanboys

05-05-2009, 02:14 PM

It would have been cute if the CM who controls the sword would have been there and let Stitch be the one to pull it out after the other boys tried. I'd love to see their faces if that happened!

Do you mean the sword can actually come out?? I had no idea!

Carissa, another great update!!

Space Mtn...nope, rode it ONCE in WDW and never again...same for the DL Matterhorn...it was soooo fast and herky jerky...:sad2:

:love: MICKEY BARS!!!!!!!! :love:

:rotfl: Yeah - I'm glad I did it, but wouldn't be a favorite of mine! ;)

LOL! My bad...you and I aren't getting older, the rides are just getting jerkier! :rotfl: That's our story and we're sticking to it!::yes::

That's better. :snooty:

Your comments about rope drop make good sense and I think you are right too ... or that is what I am telling myself for this June trip! :laughing: Your day at MK looks like it truly was a great one. :thumbsup2 We had Dream fast passes back in Nov and rode Space Mountain 6 times in one day... talk about head spin!!! :faint: I will be curious to see how it is when we go in December -- if it is different after the refurbishment.

Looking forward to more posts! popcorn::

I really do think getting there at opening makes a big difference.

You certainly made a lot of us crave those Mickey ice cream sandwiches today -- they would probably be sold out right now if we all were there. :lmao:

They are just soooo good! I always have to have those and popcorn when I visit. :goodvibes

Fun update, always good when you can spend one on one time! Great pics.

It was fun getting to do some rides with just Sully. :thumbsup2

Hey Carissa! I have alot to catch up on! :surfweb: it helps if I get my head out of Crackbook once in a while. :sad2:

Well?? Did you get caught up?? popcorn::

Hi Carissa. I am enjoying your trip report. I am also a mother of three boys(5,11 & 14). Our first trip is planned for October on my 38th bday! :dance3: We will also be staying at POR. I can't wait to read the rest of your TR. I am taking notes. :thumbsup2

:welcome: How exciting for you guys! You will LOVE Por!! :love:

I am really enjoying your trip report. I also LOVE LOVE LOVE that you put links on the first message. That saves so much time when reading the trip reports.

:welcome: Thanks for reading!

Yes! :thumbsup2 I totally agree-Can you tell me how to do it, or where to find out how to do it?? I want to do the same on my report.

Okay. You need two windows open. Do you see there's a number for each post? Click on the number and it will open up a window for JUST that post. Copy the link in the window. Then go to your main page to edit. Type the words you want for the link (the title of that installment for example). Then highlight it and click on the link button. When that window pops up, paste the link from the post.

Let me know if that doesn't make any sense and I'll try again. :goodvibes

DisneyMomLiz

05-05-2009, 03:33 PM

What a great trip report! I've been lurking for a bit, but finally joined up to say hello and thanks for the pics and info on opening at MK. Never made it to a single rope drop in all my previous visits...but will aim for at least one :yay: in May!

Also, thanks so much for the sacrifice you and your family make for our country!

carissanboys

05-05-2009, 03:40 PM

pixidustmom

05-05-2009, 11:23 PM

wahoostampingirl

05-06-2009, 12:07 AM

I'm in the minority here because I don't think HM is all that great. Part of the problem is that my night vision isn't great so I don't think I see all the effects. I'll go on it if there's no line at all, but not if there's a wait.

The tuna sandwich at CHH is sooooo good. It's definitely one of my fave CS places. It's midnight here and now I'm craving a sandwich! I'd better go to bed instead.

Congrats on getting all the mountains done in one morning.

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 09:34 AM

OMG! You would think I had no life, but I just went through all 54 pages. Your doing a great job and I am such a fan of POF. I stayed in the mansions and we loved it. Woke up each morning to see the river and bunnies running around. Just beautiful. Now we are planning another trop next year and it's been brought up if we should save the money and stay at Pop but after reading this I just can't give up staying at POF again.

Wow! You deserve a prize or something for making it through all those pages. :thumbsup2 I can understand your dilemma. POR is just so beautiful and relaxing! :goodvibes

I'm in the minority here because I don't think HM is all that great. Part of the problem is that my night vision isn't great so I don't think I see all the effects. I'll go on it if there's no line at all, but not if there's a wait.

The tuna sandwich at CHH is sooooo good. It's definitely one of my fave CS places. It's midnight here and now I'm craving a sandwich! I'd better go to bed instead.

Congrats on getting all the mountains done in one morning.

:welcome: Glad to get some support on the HM debate. :rolleyes1

Goofster57

05-06-2009, 11:00 AM

:cool1::banana:

Place Marker

And the Crowd starts to Chant....

FOOD PORN.....FOOD PORN

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 11:17 AM

:cool1::banana:

Place Marker

And the Crowd starts to Chant....

FOOD PORN.....FOOD PORN

Are you gonna make me work today??? Right now I'm watching Mike Rowe on youtube because someone told me to. :rolleyes1

MagicShell

05-06-2009, 12:01 PM

I am so glad to hear that there is at least one more person who doesn't "get" the HM. I have only ridden it once. I would ride it again but there are so many other things I would rather do. I thought I was the only one.

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 12:01 PM

After lunch we decided to check out Tom Sawyer Island. We saw this guy on the way over and I might have gone a bit overboard on the picture taking. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4572.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4573.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4574.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4575.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4576.jpg

He was such a good sport posing for me.

When we looked over to the dock, we decided there were too many people waiting to get over to the island. In fact, we noticed how very crowded the park was getting! It was decided that we would hop on the train and take it back to Main Street so we could take a rest back at POR.

All aboard!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4577.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4578.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4579.jpg

There's Chuck wavin' again! :rotfl:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4580.jpg

We took the boat over to the TTC.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4581.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4582.jpg

When we arrived back at our room, sadly - there were no towel animals. Nothing special at all for my birthday. :sad1: I did get a special photopass card for people celebrating and it gave me 20% off. :thumbsup2

I noticed the red light on our phone was blinking so I called to retrieve my message. It was the front desk saying they had a package for me. :woohoo:

I left the boys and walked over to see what awaited me. I could see from the return address that it was something from a certain someone out in California. :love:

I hurried back to our room and placed the package on the bed and turned around for just a second.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2950.jpg

Next thing I knew, Stitch had the package opened. :sad2:

Here is what was inside:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2951.jpg

Keith (Goofster57) had so generously sent us a bunch of pins to trade. Isn't he the best?? :hug:

And then there was also this:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2953.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2954.jpg

I absolutely loved it! :love: It was just the perfect gift. It had Stitch on it, and I was able to carry around all of my important stuff without having to take my purse every day. Made it easier to carry my big camera around. Keith's package really brightened our day. :cloud9:

(Sorry Keith - I'm going to stop here so you'll have to wait until the next installment for the food porn.)

Up Next - My Birthday Dinner at Kona (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31707535&postcount=842)

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 12:05 PM

I have been out of town for a week so I had to catch up. What a great way to spend your birthday! The opening show at MK is great, isn't it. I got to see it for the first time in Dec. That was one of my favorite parts of our trip. Your family photo with Stitch was great.

:thumbsup2 I would probably do it again too - but not if there was a long wait. I kind of put it in the same category as Finding Nemo. :rolleyes1

blue_river

05-06-2009, 12:12 PM

OH CAR!!!! That Keith certainly is the bestest eh? :goodvibes

What a special buddy he is! and to arrive on your birthday!!! That's wonderful and I'm sure it made your day :hug:

:rotfl: at Chuck wavin' at the camera! He's cute :upsidedow

KathyRN137

05-06-2009, 12:25 PM

That Goof is the greatest!! :goofy:

Awesome pins!

I saw the picture of the boys on the train and thought, "There's that wave again," before I saw your caption underneath!

Kathy

Goofster57

05-06-2009, 12:33 PM

Are you gonna make me work today??? Right now I'm watching Mike Rowe on youtube because someone told me to. :rolleyes1

Like that is my fault...Oh wait..It is my fault

Goofster57

05-06-2009, 12:40 PM

Nice update of a bird sitting still, Chuck waving Again! and the boys backsides on the boat.........

Where's the FOOD PORN

Come on you have three boys to look after, a husband to tend too, a house to keep clean, parties to plan and a move to pack for........it's not like you don't have time.......:rotfl:

Glad you liked the package, hope to see some pin trading pictures

pixidustmom

05-06-2009, 01:14 PM

Oh I love surprises. That was so very nice of Chuck to send such great gifts. Looking forward to the food porn. When I went on my cruise we took lots of pics of the food. Yummy!!

mommytothreeboys

05-06-2009, 01:17 PM

Awesome pins! And a very cool birthday gift...what a sweet friend! :goodvibes

Bird pictures...really?? :confused: LOL! ;)

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 01:43 PM

OH CAR!!!! That Keith certainly is the bestest eh?

What a special buddy he is! and to arrive on your birthday!!! That's wonderful and I'm sure it made your day

It definitely did. :goodvibes

:rotfl: at Chuck wavin' at the camera! He's cute

There's more to come! :lmao:

That Goof is the greatest!! :goofy:

Awesome pins!

I saw the picture of the boys on the train and thought, "There's that wave again," before I saw your caption underneath!

Kathy

:rotfl: Chuck needs to pipe up and explain why he does it. :confused3

Like that is my fault...Oh wait..It is my fault

:sad2: :sad2: :sad2: :sad2: :sad2: :sad2:

Nice update of a bird sitting still, Chuck waving Again! and the boys backsides on the boat.........

Where's the FOOD PORN

Come on you have three boys to look after, a husband to tend too, a house to keep clean, parties to plan and a move to pack for........it's not like you don't have time.......:rotfl:

So glad you're understanding of my obligations. :rolleyes1

Glad you liked the package, hope to see some pin trading pictures

I'm sad to say that I don't think I have any pictures during pin trading. I thought I took some while we were at WL, but I can't find them now. :( Where do all of these pictures disappear to?? First the food porn from CHH and then the pin trading pictures?? :confused3

Oh I love surprises. That was so very nice of Chuck to send such great gifts. Looking forward to the food porn. When I went on my cruise we took lots of pics of the food. Yummy!!

Keith sent the package - Chuck is my husband. ;) I don't think I ever use to take pictures of food until I started reading trip reports. :rotfl:

Awesome pins! And a very cool birthday gift...what a sweet friend! :goodvibes

That he is. I'm very lucky. :goodvibes

Bird pictures...really?? :confused: LOL! ;)

Oy vey! :sad2: There are far too many Disers who have issues with birds!! :dance3: I thought he was beautiful posing there like that. Look at him in all his glory Missy! I mean it!! LOOK AT HIM!!! :rotfl:

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 01:55 PM

Oh - and to clarify Keith - I don't have any pictures of the actual trading going on, but I did take some pictures of the pins they traded for. Hopefully that news will keep you from crying. :hug:

RunningGirl

05-06-2009, 01:56 PM

Goofster57

05-06-2009, 02:23 PM

Oh - and to clarify Keith - I don't have any pictures of the actual trading going on, but I did take some pictures of the pins they traded for. Hopefully that news will keep you from crying. :hug:

The reply to this post has been censored and the poster has been sent to the Naughty Mat and received points.

We now return you to your regular Trip Report Program

pixidustmom

05-06-2009, 02:25 PM

Yep, I did it again, I never get names straight. I have pregnancy brain that makes it worst. I knew what I meant does that count??:rotfl2:

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:27 PM

The reply to this post has been censored and the poster has been sent to the Naughty Mat and received points.

We now return you to your regular Trip Report Program

:rotfl:

Come on - what was there to reply to??? I was just trying to be nice. :snooty:

Goofster57

05-06-2009, 02:28 PM

Keith sent the package - Chuck is my husband. ;) :rotfl:

Thanks for clearing that up, I was afraid that I would have to rememebr another Birthday and Anniversary.

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:28 PM

I'm really enjoying your TR! What a great treat to be able to spend your birthday at WDW. Unfortunately mine usually falls during the kids' final exams week.

I love being able to go to the parks early, get a bunch done and then leave when it gets crowded! That's definitely the way to do it.

Thanks! I agree. That's always how we've done our trips. We're rarely in the parks at night - although we did go back to MK after dinner as you will soon find out. :thumbsup2

Yep, I did it again, I never get names straight. I have pregnancy brain that makes it worst. I knew what I meant does that count??:rotfl2:

Pregnancy brain excuses everything!! ;)

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:31 PM

Thanks for clearing that up, I was afraid that I would have to rememebr another Birthday and Anniversary.

Sorry to have confuzzled you dear. Is it time for your nappy??

whogirl'smom

05-06-2009, 02:32 PM

What a great surprise! And don't feel bad, we take bird and duck pictures, too. It's not like we have these giant white birds that just show up in our yard in Tennessee....

Lifelong_Dreamer

05-06-2009, 02:33 PM

Aww, Keith is such a sweetie! What a nice present!

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:34 PM

What a great surprise! And don't feel bad, we take bird and duck pictures, too. It's not like we have these giant white birds that just show up in our yard in Tennessee....

Exactly! There are just some people around here (not naming any Missylike names) who don't like birds - some are even freaked out by them! :rolleyes1

mommytothreeboys

05-06-2009, 02:38 PM

Exactly! There are just some people around here (not naming any Missylike names) who don't like birds - some are even freaked out by them! :rolleyes1

Ok...I own it! I have F.O.B! :scared1::scared1:

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:46 PM

Ok...I own it! I have F.O.B! :scared1::scared1:

:hug: You're not the only one Missy. I've seen many others on here that have it too. Was it the movie The Birds that ignited your fear?

Lady Lallie

05-06-2009, 02:49 PM

What a wonderful treat for you have!! Love the pins!

I love the bird pictures too, very pretty.

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 02:49 PM

Aww, Keith is such a sweetie! What a nice present!

Oops! Missed you Lessa.

It was a lovely present. :goodvibes

irene_dsc

05-06-2009, 03:28 PM

Exactly! There are just some people around here (not naming any Missylike names) who don't like birds - some are even freaked out by them! :rolleyes1

Well, *I* liked your bird pictures! They reminded me of the white egrets I used to watch at the pond by our old house - I miss them.

And, so cool that Keith sent you birthday pressies! Love it!

torsie24

05-06-2009, 03:33 PM

Awww, how wonderful!!! What an awesome birthday surprise!!

cjackearl

05-06-2009, 03:45 PM

How fun to get a surprise on your birthday.:goodvibes Your bird pictures are very pretty and as long as he was posing...

liznboys

05-06-2009, 03:50 PM

Your bird pictures are very pretty! Nice pins, what a fun surprise. Can't wait to hear about the rest of your bday!

carissanboys

05-06-2009, 06:13 PM

What a wonderful treat for you have!! Love the pins!

I love the bird pictures too, very pretty.

Thanks - I thought they came out nice. :goodvibes

Well, *I* liked your bird pictures! They reminded me of the white egrets I used to watch at the pond by our old house - I miss them.

And, so cool that Keith sent you birthday pressies! Love it!

I'm glad someone else liked them too! :thumbsup2

Awww, how wonderful!!! What an awesome birthday surprise!!

Yes it was. :goodvibes

How fun to get a surprise on your birthday.:goodvibes Your bird pictures are very pretty and as long as he was posing...

He was! Did you see in the last one he even looked at the camera. ;)

Your bird pictures are very pretty! Nice pins, what a fun surprise. Can't wait to hear about the rest of your bday!

Thanks Liz! I can't wait to post about our meal at Kona. :flower3:

Charleston Princess

05-06-2009, 08:30 PM

Awww, what a great gift from Keith!!! That was super sweet and thoughtful!

MeMom

05-06-2009, 09:02 PM

Do you mean the sword can actually come out?? I had no idea!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4572.jpg

Here is what was inside:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2951.jpg

Keith (Goofster57) had so generously sent us a bunch of pins to trade. Isn't he the best?? :hug:

Up Next - My Birthday Dinner at Kona

Yes, it has been known to come out. Apparently a CM uses a remote device to unlock it from a nearby spot, but it doesn't happen very often. It raises up, but doesn't come out.

You know I would have taken a half dozen bird pictures, too!
I don't fault you at all.

That was so nice for you getting the pins. Disers are nice people!

carissanboys

05-07-2009, 07:32 AM

Awww, what a great gift from Keith!!! That was super sweet and thoughtful!

:goodvibes

Yes, it has been known to come out. Apparently a CM uses a remote device to unlock it from a nearby spot, but it doesn't happen very often. It raises up, but doesn't come out.

You know I would have taken a half dozen bird pictures, too!
I don't fault you at all.

That was so nice for you getting the pins. Disers are nice people!

Thanks MeMom - I knew you'd understand about the bird pictures. :thumbsup2

dddisrunner

05-07-2009, 07:41 AM

jmskinner

05-07-2009, 08:08 AM

:banana:For the pins. What a great birthday gift! I want that Pluto with the balloon one.

The lanyard is cool also. I have stopped wearing mine and took all my pins off because it rubs on my camera.

Love the bird pics. I'm always taking pics of animals in the world also, as you know.:rotfl:

carissanboys

05-07-2009, 08:22 AM

After resting back in the room for a short time, we got in the van and drove over to the Poly. It never fails that when we drive over, we end up going past the parking lot and have to exit and re-enter. It's quite humorous actually. We went to the Poly twice on this trip and both Chuck and I made the same mistake. :rotfl: We just kept looking for a spot close to the building and before we knew it, we had to exit. The CM at the gate even laughed at us once. :rolleyes1 (It's okay - I know y'all are laughing too.)

I just love the Poly! As we got to the second floor, we saw this very long check in line. :scared1: Thankfully, we realized it was for 'Ohana. Even though Kona was practically empty, we still had to wait a bit before they seated us. Guess they didn't have all of their servers working yet.

I love how elegant Kona looks.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2956.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2957.jpg

Our buzzer went off and we were seated in a great little corner spot - out of the way. :thumbsup2 Our waitress was very efficient, but she just seemed to be lacking in the Disney magic. That's kind of how I felt about Kona I guess. I loved the atmosphere and thought it was beautiful, but I don't think I ever really felt comfortable.

Our waitress brought us some bread and our drinks. The Hawaiian bread and macadamia honey butter is AMAZING! We devoured it pretty quickly. One of my favorite parts of the meal.

The boys loved the umbrellas that came with their drinks.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2959.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2960.jpg

On the Dining Plan we were allowed to have a fruity non-alcoholic drink. I had some raspberry something or other - very good. Can't remember what Chuck had, but here's a picture:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2958.jpg

Then it came time for our meals. :cool1:

Chuck got the Tuna Oscar. He said it was very good just found the sauce to be too sweet. It overpowered the wasabi.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2963.jpg

I ordered the Teriyaki-style New York Strip. Probably THE best meal of the trip for me (and yes - I'm comparing it to the mushroom filet at Le Cellier :rolleyes1 ). The steak was cooked perfectly and the teriyaki sauce was awesome.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2962.jpg

I didn't take any pictures of the kids' meals and I didn't write much down for notes (I usually took my notes at the end of the day to quickly jot down the order of events and anything major that happened).

It was time for dessert and to be honest - I was too full for more food. There wasn't anything on their dessert menu that really appealed to me, but I went with the Banana-Chocolate Creme Brulee. Chuck ordered the White Chocolate Cheesecake.

First the waitress brought me this:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2964.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2965.jpg

It was a cream puff. I took a small bite and gave the rest to the boys. I'm guessing that they don't have enough room with the creme brulee plate to do anything special so they gave me this instead. I was a little disappointed that there was no singing or anything. We later saw a different waitress bring out dessert to someone and SHE sang Happy Birthday. :sad1: Guess our waitress wasn't a singer.

The creme brulee was good. There's a chocolate layer on the bottom. I was just too full to enoy it.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2968.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2967.jpg

The boys made their own sundaes, which they loved!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2966.jpg

So, overall, I enjoyed our meal at Kona. I thought the food was fabulous and the atmosphere is very elegant. I don't know that I would go back though. Maybe if it were just Chuck and I. The overall feeling of the restaurant, including our waitress, was a bit too, uh - "high class" for me. I think if we'd had a different server we would have felt differently.

With bulging bellies, we made our way outside to the beach. This is one of the things that really draws me to this resort.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2970.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2969.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2971.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2973.jpg

The boys played in the sand while Chuck and I sat on the swing. We didn't stay too long since we wanted to get back to Magic Kingdom for SpectroMagic and Wishes.

Up Next - Moving Update - Getting Close! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31732667&postcount=871)

jmskinner

05-07-2009, 08:28 AM

Ok, I know you didn't have the best time, but due to the food porn I want to give Kona a try. The DH loves terriyaki sauce, so I am sure he will love the steak.

carissanboys

05-07-2009, 08:33 AM

Just getting caught up! I don't love birds either...as a matter of fact when Bryan and I went to the MK in Feb. of 1996 a bird stuck its beak right through my ice cream cone and lifted the ice cream right off the cone!!:scared1: I liked your picture though!:goodvibes What a GREAT birthday surprise from Keith! How very thoughtful!!:thumbsup2 I can't wait to hear what you thought of Kona!!:goodvibes

Those birds can be pretty cheeky! :scared1:

:banana:For the pins. What a great birthday gift! I want that Pluto with the balloon one.

The lanyard is cool also. I have stopped wearing mine and took all my pins off because it rubs on my camera.

Love the bird pics. I'm always taking pics of animals in the world also, as you know.:rotfl:

Don't tell Keith, but I kept those two balloon pins for myself. :rolleyes1

Ok, I know you didn't have the best time, but due to the food porn I want to give Kona a try. The DH loves terriyaki sauce, so I am sure he will love the steak.

The food was excellent and I really think with a different server we would have enjoyed it more. It just didn't feel special for my birthday, you know? However, I had two other meals that kind of made up for it. :goodvibes

Lifelong_Dreamer

05-07-2009, 10:05 AM

Sorry you had a less than stellar server but I'm glad that you at least enjoyed the meal! The cheesecake sounds yummy!

torsie24

05-07-2009, 10:37 AM

Wow! It looks a lovely meal - I think I may order exactly what you did when we go as it all looked delicious!!!

Sorry your server wasn't overly Disney, but I'm glad you had a lovely birthday dinner! :)

mommytothreeboys

05-07-2009, 12:58 PM

I am a steak girl all day long and that steak looks amazing! I'm sorry your birthday dinner wasn't what you had hoped, but I'm glad you at least enjoyed the food! :goodvibes

I laughed about the parking lot story...that is totally something I would do! LOL!

Can't wait to hear more! :thumbsup2

pixidustmom

05-07-2009, 01:38 PM

Ohhhhh, your whole meal looked and sounded so yummmmmyyyy. Now how am I going to eat my pbj sandwich knowing I was just drooling over your food?:confused3

Goofster57

05-07-2009, 03:44 PM

Finally Food Porn

Sorry you weren't overly please with your experience. I have only been there for breakfast and really enjoyed it.

I have found that when dining at Disney the server can make or break your experience.

The little Birthday Plate was cute

Nice up-date,

Please don't tell me that is it for Food Porn

Those birds can be pretty cheeky! :scared1:
Don't tell Keith, but I kept those two balloon pins for myself. :rolleyes1

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

mnkyboy24

05-07-2009, 04:23 PM

The drink That I had was a virgina Pina Colada. Quite awesome, even without the rum.

eandesmom

05-07-2009, 04:52 PM

With Kona I think the challenge is that it's just a lovely restaurant, inside disney. It doesn't have the personality of many places where your server gets into the theme. But as you noted, the food is amazing! My DH and I had the exact reverse of you and Chuck and it was my best meal of the trip.

But for entertainment, there are other places the kids liked better. They'd eat there again and be fine with it (and I plan to go there for breakfast) but they really got into more of a dinner show at many of the places so I think that skewed it a little for them. A great dinner, just not as Disney-ish as some others :)

What a lovely day you had!

carissanboys

05-07-2009, 04:58 PM

Sorry you had a less than stellar server but I'm glad that you at least enjoyed the meal! The cheesecake sounds yummy!

The server did an excellent job...serving. Don't get me wrong! I just prefer someone a bit warmer and more friendly.

Wow! It looks a lovely meal - I think I may order exactly what you did when we go as it all looked delicious!!!

Sorry your server wasn't overly Disney, but I'm glad you had a lovely birthday dinner! :)

You should! That steak was sooooo yummy. :goodvibes

I am a steak girl all day long and that steak looks amazing! I'm sorry your birthday dinner wasn't what you had hoped, but I'm glad you at least enjoyed the food! :goodvibes

I laughed about the parking lot story...that is totally something I would do! LOL!

Can't wait to hear more! :thumbsup2

I love a good steak too. Medium rare! :thumbsup2

Ohhhhh, your whole meal looked and sounded so yummmmmyyyy. Now how am I going to eat my pbj sandwich knowing I was just drooling over your food?:confused3

:rotfl: I know. Everything kind of seems dull after that.

Finally Food Porn

Sorry you weren't overly please with your experience. I have only been there for breakfast and really enjoyed it.

I have found that when dining at Disney the server can make or break your experience.

The little Birthday Plate was cute

Nice up-date,

Please don't tell me that is it for Food Porn

It definitely wasn't a bad experience at all - just not what I'd hoped for on my birthday I guess. I wanted everyone in the restaurant to serenade me!! I wanted there to be fireworks!! Oh wait - that's coming up. ;)

Of course there's more food porn! What kind of DISer do you think I am??? :confused3

The drink That I had was a virgina Pina Colada. Quite awesome, even without the rum.

I thought it was a Pina Colada.

With Kona I think the challenge is that it's just a lovely restaurant, inside disney. It doesn't have the personality of many places where your server gets into the theme. But as you noted, the food is amazing! My DH and I had the exact reverse of you and Chuck and it was my best meal of the trip.

I think you're right. If we'd had that same server somewhere outside of Disney, I probably would have thought she was awesome. Like I mentioned - she was efficient. I just wanted something special on my birthday I guess.

wahoostampingirl

05-07-2009, 06:32 PM

cjackearl

05-07-2009, 07:13 PM

I definitely think that you should have gotten serenaded! Not only was it your birthday but Disney's new theme? Hello? What are you celebrating? I get it. The food does look amazing though. We've got a ressie there in June.

carissanboys

05-07-2009, 07:27 PM

I love, love, love Kona! We go there at least once a trip and sometimes two times. I've had the Teriyaki Strip Steak and I have to agree that it is excellent. I also love the Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes for breakfast. My dh has to have a French Press Pot of coffee every time he's in there. We celebrated our 15th anniversary there and received a cream puff kind of dessert too. Not my favorite kind of dessert, but it was very pretty.

I know what you mean about your server though. We always seem to get one who does a fine job, but just isn't that friendly. However, it doesn't detract from our love of Kona.

I kicked myself afterwards for not ordering a pot of the french press coffee!! :headache: The desserts and their presentation were beautiful! :goodvibes

I definitely think that you should have gotten serenaded! Not only was it your birthday but Disney's new theme? Hello? What are you celebrating? I get it. The food does look amazing though. We've got a ressie there in June.

Thank you! I was thinking something along the lines of "Be Our Guest" from Beauty and the Beast. A big number with all of the staff - huge production! :woohoo: Something I did forget to mention is how many times I was told "Happy Birthday" that day by all of the CMs. I should have kept count! Usually it was just "Happy Birthday", but a few times I heard "Happy Birthday Carissa!" :goodvibes

Charleston Princess

05-07-2009, 07:29 PM

Dinner looks delicious -- we loved the bread and macadamia butter when we ate there last June! Mmmm! Love the beach pictures! The Poly is always so beautiful!

KathyRN137

05-07-2009, 07:43 PM

Wow! I feel stuffed just reading about your dinner!! :laughing:

The Poly beach looks so inviting!

pixiedust: Happy Birthday, Carissa!! pixiedust:

ooohhh, Spectro and Wishes coming up... my absolute favorite!!

Kathy

DisneyJo

05-08-2009, 05:55 AM

How sweet of Keith to send you a Birthday pressie :goodvibes

I so agree about the steak at Kona, when we ate there it was the best steak of the trip and we ate at Le Cellier twice, it was delicious!

dddisrunner

05-08-2009, 06:27 AM

Carissa, I always get that exact meal that you had when we go to Kona!! I LOVE it...so good!! I think the butter and bread at Kona is to DIE for!!! Sorry the server wasn't more upbeat and cheery for your birthday!! It seems like you went on a night that wasn't too crowded, it has always been near capacity when we have been!! GREAT update as usual!!:thumbsup2

MeMom

05-08-2009, 07:04 AM

I ordered the Teriyaki-style New York Strip. Probably THE best meal of the trip for me (and yes - I'm comparing it to the mushroom filet at Le Cellier :rolleyes1 ). The steak was cooked perfectly and the teriyaki sauce was awesome.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2962.jpg

With bulging bellies, we made our way outside to the beach. This is one of the things that really draws me to this resort.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2970.jpg

The boys played in the sand while Chuck and I sat on the swing. We didn't stay too long since we wanted to get back to Magic Kingdom for SpectroMagic and Wishes.

Up Next - The Boys Make Friends With the Help of Glow Sticks

That meal is just what I would get. It looks sooo good!

Sweet picture of the boys on the beach!

kidsrfun

05-08-2009, 07:07 AM

I'm so excited! I got to make my ADR's on May 24th and Kona is on my list. Seeing your pics reminded my why I'm hoping so hard to have dinner there during our stay!! Oh... come on ADR's!!!!!!!!!!!:cheer2:

DisMomAmy

05-08-2009, 07:29 AM

Wow!! I missed a lot! But I'm finally all caught up. I'm enjoying reading about your birthday. Sounds like a great day so far. :thumbsup2

Too much to comment on, but wanted to let you know I'm here...

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 07:58 AM

Dinner looks delicious -- we loved the bread and macadamia butter when we ate there last June! Mmmm! Love the beach pictures! The Poly is always so beautiful!

That bread and butter is sooooo good! I think we got two loaves. :rolleyes1

Wow! I feel stuffed just reading about your dinner!! :laughing:

The Poly beach looks so inviting!

pixiedust: Happy Birthday, Carissa!! pixiedust:

ooohhh, Spectro and Wishes coming up... my absolute favorite!!

Kathy

Thanks Kathy! I don't really have any pictures of Spectro and Wishes (maybe one), but I do have some from beforehand and a few castle pictures. :thumbsup2

How sweet of Keith to send you a Birthday pressie :goodvibes

I so agree about the steak at Kona, when we ate there it was the best steak of the trip and we ate at Le Cellier twice, it was delicious!

It really was good!

Carissa, I always get that exact meal that you had when we go to Kona!! I LOVE it...so good!! I think the butter and bread at Kona is to DIE for!!! Sorry the server wasn't more upbeat and cheery for your birthday!! It seems like you went on a night that wasn't too crowded, it has always been near capacity when we have been!! GREAT update as usual!!:thumbsup2

I think Kona must close after lunch and then reopen?? Our reservation was for 5 I believe and it seemed like it had just opened. :confused3

That meal is just what I would get. It looks sooo good!

Sweet picture of the boys on the beach!

From everyone's comments here, it seems that is one of their most popular meals!

I'm so excited! I got to make my ADR's on May 24th and Kona is on my list. Seeing your pics reminded my why I'm hoping so hard to have dinner there during our stay!! Oh... come on ADR's!!!!!!!!!!!:cheer2:

I'm sure you'll get it. Good luck! :thumbsup2

Wow!! I missed a lot! But I'm finally all caught up. I'm enjoying reading about your birthday. Sounds like a great day so far. :thumbsup2

Too much to comment on, but wanted to let you know I'm here...

Glad to see you back here Amy. :hug:

whogirl'smom

05-08-2009, 08:49 AM

Kona always looks so good--I think we're going to try it for breakfast this time. We did too many character meals last time so I'm ready for a little "high class". :laughing:

liznboys

05-08-2009, 09:38 AM

I share your feelings about Kona. Great food, but the atmosphere doesn't feel as family/kid friendly to me...good place for a couple.

Don't you just love the Poly grounds and beach?! :cloud9:

MagicShell

05-08-2009, 09:58 AM

Sounds like you are having a great birthday so far. I love your gifts. Pin trading is one of my family's favorite Disney things to do.

Emma's Dad

05-08-2009, 10:10 AM

Hi! I just found your TR and I haven't been through all of it yet... but I wanted to stop by and say hi from Virginia Beach. I was brought to the area courtesy of the US Navy back in '93. If you have any questions about the area, let me know.
p.s. I was stationed on both USS Eisenhower & USS George Washington.

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 10:30 AM

Kona always looks so good--I think we're going to try it for breakfast this time. We did too many character meals last time so I'm ready for a little "high class". :laughing:

:rotfl: I've heard their breakfast is really good too. :thumbsup2

I share your feelings about Kona. Great food, but the atmosphere doesn't feel as family/kid friendly to me...good place for a couple.

Don't you just love the Poly grounds and beach?! :cloud9:

Yes! I also love the beach and grounds at Fort Wilderness. Sully wants to stay in the cabins if we ever go back.

Sounds like you are having a great birthday so far. I love your gifts. Pin trading is one of my family's favorite Disney things to do.

I forgot to mention the shirt my husband got me! I'll have to remember to talk about it.

Hi! I just found your TR and I haven't been through all of it yet... but I wanted to stop by and say hi from Virginia Beach. I was brought to the area courtesy of the US Navy back in '93. If you have any questions about the area, let me know.
p.s. I was stationed on both USS Eisenhower & USS George Washington.

:welcome: Hello! So you are no longer in the Navy, but stayed in VA Beach? I'm sure we'll have some questions for you. We know nothing about ship life, but I think we're about to find out. ;)

Glad to have you along! :goodvibes

Emma's Dad

05-08-2009, 12:06 PM

:welcome: Hello! So you are no longer in the Navy, but stayed in VA Beach? I'm sure we'll have some questions for you. We know nothing about ship life, but I think we're about to find out. ;)

Glad to have you along! :goodvibes

Thanks :) Yep - I got out of the Navy in '99 and stayed in the area because we like it so much. Life on an aircraft carrier is no ordinary ship life, that's for sure :thumbsup2

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 12:12 PM

Thanks :) Yep - I got out of the Navy in '99 and stayed in the area because we like it so much. Life on an aircraft carrier is no ordinary ship life, that's for sure :thumbsup2

In a good or bad way?? :rolleyes1

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 04:33 PM

I probably won't get another installment up until Monday so I thought I'd at least give a little moving update for those who are interested. I also have found out that my photobucket album is at 1,000 photos and I guess that's the limit? :confused3 Not quite sure what I'm going to do next. Any ideas??

We have our packout scheduled for Friday, May 29th, which is exactly three weeks from today! This means some lovely people will arrive on my doorstep and proceed to take all of our household belongings and (hopefully) gently pack them into boxes. They will then drive all of our worldly possessions down to Virginia Beach and (again - hopefully) unload such items into our new home very soon after. :thumbsup2

The plan is that we will stay overnight in our current house with air mattresses, finish cleaning, and then drive down to our new home the next day - Saturday, May 30th. Unfortunately, the housing office does not do final walkthroughs on the weekend so Chuck will have to drive back up to the area on Monday for that purpose. :sad2:

We also made a decision about school. The boys last day will be May 29th and then next year we will be homeschooling them. There were a lot of factors in our decision and if you really want to read about it you can check out my blog (link in my profile). We're all excited about it!

The next few weeks will be busy. Sully and Connor celebrate birthdays on the 20th and 23rd and we're planning a combined party for their friends (and Owen who's birthday is June 1st) in two weeks. Chuck and I will be celebrating ten years of marriage on Connor's birthday, which is also the day of the party. :rolleyes1

Next weekend we're hoping to make it to the Air and Space Show. We went last year but the weather did not cooperate and we were not prepared for rain and freezing temps! Hopefully this year will be better and I can share some of those pictures with you all.

I want to wish all of you mothers a most Happy Mother's Day! I hope your Sunday is very special. :goodvibes

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/mothersday2.jpg

Up Next - The Boys Make Friends with the Help of Glow Sticks

Happydog

05-08-2009, 04:48 PM

Goofster57

05-08-2009, 05:09 PM

I also have found out that my photobucket album is at 1,000 photos and I guess that's the limit? :confused3 Not quite sure what I'm going to do next. Any ideas??

I got around that by using a different E-mail address and establishing a new Photobucket account...I actually have 3 of them

jmskinner

05-08-2009, 05:21 PM

You have probably read about it on my TR, but I signed up for smugmug to store all of my pics. I think it is $40 a year, but it is unlimited storage and the public isn't able to few your pics unless you want them to. I can send you a code for $5 off also. Another Diser recommended it.

cjackearl

05-08-2009, 06:10 PM

Your moving plans sound good. Glad you figured out school for the boys. I'd love to read your blog, but I must be particularly dense today because I can't figure out which is the link to it?:confused3

Have a Happy Mother's Day, Carissa!:goodvibes

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 06:16 PM

Great updates! I enjoyed catching up the last few pages! Kona looks good! We opted for Ohanas instead for June, but I was glad to see a few examples of Kona-fare (LLallie had some picks posted too). We have never been to the Poly, so I am looking forward to the adventure.

I am glad the moving plans are in order, I know that is hectic -- May is going to fly by!

Look forward to hearing more next week! popcorn::

I am more comfortable with the atmosphere at 'Ohana. Have you eaten there before?

I got around that by using a different E-mail address and establishing a new Photobucket account...I actually have 3 of them

I don't have another email account, but I'll use Chuck's. :thumbsup2

You have probably read about it on my TR, but I signed up for smugmug to store all of my pics. I think it is $40 a year, but it is unlimited storage and the public isn't able to few your pics unless you want them to. I can send you a code for $5 off also. Another Diser recommended it.

Thanks Melissa. I'll think I'll do what Keith suggested. You can make your pictures private on photobucket too.

Your moving plans sound good. Glad you figured out school for the boys. I'd love to read your blog, but I must be particularly dense today because I can't figure out which is the link to it?:confused3

Have a Happy Mother's Day, Carissa!:goodvibes

If you click on my username name and then view profile - then click on contact info. It's the website that says "Will Travel by Foot." :thumbsup2

Jeff90

05-08-2009, 06:46 PM

Hey Carissa!

Happy Mama's Day to ya! And good luck moving! I am sure everything will be just dandy!!!!!

carissanboys

05-08-2009, 07:00 PM

Hey Carissa!

Happy Mama's Day to ya! And good luck moving! I am sure everything will be just dandy!!!!!

Thanks Jeff! My boys actually call me "Mama." :goodvibes

And I still plan to read your TR! It's just in bits and spurts right now. :rolleyes1

KathyRN137

05-08-2009, 08:45 PM

So exciting about the move! Pack-out sounds like a godsend, especially since Chuck won't be around. :goodvibes

Kathy

Charleston Princess

05-08-2009, 08:50 PM

Happy Mother's Day to you as well! I can't believe your move is so close!!! Homeschooling sounds wonderful -- I can't begin to tell you how many times I have thought how nice it would be to be able to do that!

ljcrochet

05-08-2009, 10:23 PM

Great trip report!
Good luck with your move.

mousescrapper

05-09-2009, 11:58 AM

all caught up...sorry my :sick:has been keeping me away...

Glad you enjoyed my Stitch story...:rotfl:

Love the pin surprise back at your room..how nice. Sorry you skipped TSI...maybe time for it on a later day.

Glad you enjoyed Kona for the most part for your b-day meal. I think my DH had that same steak dinner when we dined there last year. Love all the pictures...reminds me of our stay last June...yes the beach was divine :goodvibes

Looking forward to more...

so hey did I miss it or did you yet not post this, but what did :wave: Chuck get you for your b-day and what did you use your g/c for?

Other non Dis stuff...

you have some crazy weeks ahead before the big move!

Happy pre :bday: to all the boys and a special pre Congrats on your upcoming 10 yr anni w/ Chuck.

any big plans? or just moving into a new home :rolleyes1

DH & I celebrate 13 later this July...our 10 year I had wanted to go to WDW but I was pregnant w/ Margaret at the time and we bought our current home that summer of 06...plan for our 15 yr anni in 011 to go to WDW by ourselves...we are already planning!:goodvibes

Have a nice Mother's Day to you too :hug:

AlohaAnnie

05-09-2009, 12:46 PM

Car,

Enjoyed the last few installments, I know you are a busy girl. Having just moved myself, it is alot of work.

We get a little animal/bird picture happy also. :confused3 I think it is because the kids have really enjoyed animals/birds since they were little.

Happy Mother's Day To you To!

Hope to read a new installment soon, I have really enjoyed all the other installments.

Tina :love:

carissanboys

05-09-2009, 01:26 PM

So exciting about the move! Pack-out sounds like a godsend, especially since Chuck won't be around. :goodvibes

Kathy

Chuck will be here for the move, thankfully. They told him he just has to report to school by June 22nd. :thumbsup2

Happy Mother's Day to you as well! I can't believe your move is so close!!! Homeschooling sounds wonderful -- I can't begin to tell you how many times I have thought how nice it would be to be able to do that!

I'm sure there will be many days when I want to pull my hair out! :rolleyes1

Great trip report!
Good luck with your move.

Thanks! :goodvibes

all caught up...sorry my :sick:has been keeping me away...

Glad you enjoyed my Stitch story...:rotfl:

Love the pin surprise back at your room..how nice. Sorry you skipped TSI...maybe time for it on a later day.

Sorry to hear you've been sick! :hug: And yes - we did get back to TSI on our last day. :thumbsup2

so hey did I miss it or did you yet not post this, but what did :wave: Chuck get you for your b-day and what did you use your g/c for?

I haven't mentioned it yet. I will do that in my next post (the b-day gift from Chuck anyway - I'll get to the g/c later.)

any big plans? or just moving into a new home :rolleyes1

We had talked about taking a trip just the two of us and my stepmother was going to come down and watch the boys. But, we ended up going to Disney instead and I got a very nice anniversary present which set us back a bit. :rolleyes1

DH & I celebrate 13 later this July...our 10 year I had wanted to go to WDW but I was pregnant w/ Margaret at the time and we bought our current home that summer of 06...plan for our 15 yr anni in 011 to go to WDW by ourselves...we are already planning!:goodvibes

How wonderful for you guys! :goodvibes

Car,

Enjoyed the last few installments, I know you are a busy girl. Having just moved myself, it is alot of work.

We get a little animal/bird picture happy also. :confused3 I think it is because the kids have really enjoyed animals/birds since they were little.

Happy Mother's Day To you To!

Hope to read a new installment soon, I have really enjoyed all the other installments.

Tina :love:

Thanks Tina! :hug: We just spent the morning getting our backyard toys cleaned and packed in a bin and cleaning out the front hall closet. I'm pooped now!

Emma's Dad

05-09-2009, 02:30 PM

OK... I'm still only up to page 14... so I still have a lot of reading to do. But I wanted to post a few replies to what I've read so far. I'm coming into this TR wayyyyy late :rotfl:

Can I join in? I'm a '72 baby but I am married to a Chuck also! Can that count?:lmao:

Hey! A fellow '72 baby! Finally! :yay:

I am the electronics "geek" for the house and the "pack mule" for most excursions too. Eh.....its a living. ;) Lucklily they were fairly generous with the orders and the timing, so I could help with the moving and setting up in Norfolk (VA Beach more likely). Plus I wouldn't want to have Carissa suffer without Internet and HDTV, she can get a little grumpy!:eek: Just kidding...she is quite capable...she just gets a smidgen frustrated with all the cables and connectors.

Hey, Chuck! Nice to meet you. Yes... I'm the proud GEEK of the house, too. I think that's why DW married me ;) If you need any help when you get into Va Beach, let me know!

Who can guess where we stopped to eat??? If you know me at all (or have read my other TR), you'll know the answer!

We always eat at Cracker Barrel when we're traveling. :thumbsup2

Have you heard?? There is a brand-new CB in Chesapeake at the Greenbrier Mall exit! No more waiting for the Disney trip for your CB fix :thumbsup2

Yeah. Ahh the days of VHS. However, I have to admit, I am fan of HDMI cables...one cable for everything. Now you don't need a coax for the TV, audio inputs for sound and the VCR and the DVD....its all in one cable.

Hon - you're gonna scare everyone away with your geek talk. :rolleyes1

LY/MI (that means love ya mean it)

OMG! you guys had me busting my gut with these posts! :rotfl2::rotfl::rotfl2::rotfl:

Great TR!! Now I just need to get all caught up like a good subby.

carissanboys

05-09-2009, 04:57 PM

OK... I'm still only up to page 14... so I still have a lot of reading to do. But I wanted to post a few replies to what I've read so far. I'm coming into this TR wayyyyy late :rotfl:

You get an A+ for effort for actually reading through the whole thing and not using the cheat links. ;) I enjoy the chit chat, but I imagine there are some who don't. :rolleyes1

Hey! A fellow '72 baby! Finally! :yay:

Chuck is a '73 baby so we're not all 1974 versions. :3dglasses I see you share my birthday month. :thumbsup2

Have you heard?? There is a brand-new CB in Chesapeake at the Greenbrier Mall exit! No more waiting for the Disney trip for your CB fix :thumbsup2

No way!!!! That is so cool!!! :dancer:

lazydoxy66

05-09-2009, 11:30 PM

Fabulous updates again.

Yay! You went to Kona. That review was good to read. This is where we are going for my BFF's B-day. It sounds good to me.

carrieannie

05-10-2009, 12:30 AM

Note to self...page 46...:surfweb: :thumbsup2

Charleston Princess

05-10-2009, 07:32 AM

Happy Mother's Day, Carissa!

tecomagirl

05-10-2009, 08:50 AM

I have just finished reading your trip report, fantastic, I am going to Walt Disney World in September for 11 days. A massive trip by myself, but I cannot wait. Good Luck with the move, look forward to hearing more

carissanboys

05-10-2009, 09:01 AM

Fabulous updates again.

Yay! You went to Kona. That review was good to read. This is where we are going for my BFF's B-day. It sounds good to me.

I'm sure you'll enjoy it - the food is wonderful. :thumbsup2

Note to self...page 46...:surfweb: :thumbsup2

:rotfl:

Happy Mother's Day, Carissa!

Thanks Jackie - you too! :goodvibes

I have just finished reading your trip report, fantastic, I am going to Walt Disney World in September for 11 days. A massive trip by myself, but I cannot wait. Good Luck with the move, look forward to hearing more

:welcome: Wow! That's quite a trip to do alone! Did you see that we lived in Australia for three years? Absolutely loved our time there and miss it a lot. Is this your first time going to WDW? Thanks for reading. :goodvibes

----------------------------------------------------------------

I wanted to post this picture with my last update in honor of Mother's Day, but I couldn't find it anywhere. This morning I had success! :thumbsup2 It's my favorite picture of me and my boys taken just about a year ago.

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/mothersday2.jpg

mousescrapper

05-10-2009, 09:16 AM

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/mothersday2.jpg

It's a beautiful picture!

Happy Mama's Day! :love:

wannago2disney

05-10-2009, 11:46 AM

Great trip report :thumbsup2 just finished reading through from the start. I did skip most of the chatter but had to go back and take an extra look at everyones funny ride pics:rotfl:

HappyMother's Day!
Tosh

MRYPPNS

05-10-2009, 11:50 AM

I'm headed to your blog now......good luck with the move. I think one of the reasons we decided to put an addition onto our house instead of buy a new one was because I couldn't bear the thought of the work to pack up the house and unpack.

Homeschooling sounds wonderful -- I can't begin to tell you how many times I have thought how nice it would be to be able to do that!

Jackie-
Feel free to move to NH in 3 years and homeschool my kids. I bet my DH would even build you a little one room school house on our property complete with a recess ring just like on Little House!

Charleston Princess

05-10-2009, 11:52 AM

Jackie-
Feel free to move to NH in 3 years and homeschool my kids. I bet my DH would even build you a little one room school house on our property complete with a recess ring just like on Little House!

:lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: That sounds lovely! :goodvibes

Happydog

05-10-2009, 03:06 PM

:sunny: Happy Mother's Day to you! :sunny:

cjackearl

05-10-2009, 03:53 PM

Love the picture of you and your boys.:goodvibes Happy Mother's Day! Oh, and I checked out your blog. I spent way too much time reading yesterday. I learned a lot.:thumbsup2

MeMom

05-10-2009, 07:48 PM

I'm finally making my rounds this evening to wish everyone a late in the day Happy Mother's Day. I hope you had a beautiful time with your boys. Before you know it, those three little guys are going to be big muscle-bound food-guzzling young men who will show their affection for you by picking you up and tossing you around just to hear you squeal. That's what mine have been known to do, anyway!

That's a great picture of you and your boys. As I have said before, you are blessed. All of us who have been given the privilege of raising children are very, very blessed.

carrieannie

05-10-2009, 07:58 PM

http://i530.photobucket.com/albums/dd346/CavCafe/mothersday.gif

mnkyboy24

05-10-2009, 08:23 PM

Nice to meet you too Don. Thanks on the offer of assistance...much appreciated. I am hopeful for a relatively smooth transition from one place to another...never know though. Our trips always have some excitement...wanted or otherwise.

OK... I'm still only up to page 14... so I still have a lot of reading to do. But I wanted to post a few replies to what I've read so far. I'm coming into this TR wayyyyy late :rotfl:

Hey! A fellow '72 baby! Finally! :yay:

Hey, Chuck! Nice to meet you. Yes... I'm the proud GEEK of the house, too. I think that's why DW married me ;) If you need any help when you get into Va Beach, let me know!

Have you heard?? There is a brand-new CB in Chesapeake at the Greenbrier Mall exit! No more waiting for the Disney trip for your CB fix :thumbsup2

OMG! you guys had me busting my gut with these posts! :rotfl2::rotfl::rotfl2::rotfl:

Great TR!! Now I just need to get all caught up like a good subby.

carissanboys

05-11-2009, 08:03 AM

It's a beautiful picture!

Happy Mama's Day! :love:

Thanks Julie! :goodvibes

Great trip report :thumbsup2 just finished reading through from the start. I did skip most of the chatter but had to go back and take an extra look at everyones funny ride pics:rotfl:

HappyMother's Day!
Tosh

:welcome: Thanks for reading! :goodvibes

I'm headed to your blog now......good luck with the move. I think one of the reasons we decided to put an addition onto our house instead of buy a new one was because I couldn't bear the thought of the work to pack up the house and unpack.

Thanks for stopping by Heidi - I know how crazy is for you right now! Hope you had a lovely Mother's Day as well.

:sunny: Happy Mother's Day to you! :sunny:

Thanks! :goodvibes

Love the picture of you and your boys.:goodvibes Happy Mother's Day! Oh, and I checked out your blog. I spent way too much time reading yesterday. I learned a lot.:thumbsup2

You learned a lot in general or you learned a lot about me and now you think I'm crazy?? ;)

I'm finally making my rounds this evening to wish everyone a late in the day Happy Mother's Day. I hope you had a beautiful time with your boys. Before you know it, those three little guys are going to be big muscle-bound food-guzzling young men who will show their affection for you by picking you up and tossing you around just to hear you squeal. That's what mine have been known to do, anyway!

That's a great picture of you and your boys. As I have said before, you are blessed. All of us who have been given the privilege of raising children are very, very blessed.

Thanks MeMom! I'm starting to realize that I don't want the years to go by so quickly. Trying to enjoy them while they're still "little." :goodvibes

http://i530.photobucket.com/albums/dd346/CavCafe/mothersday.gif

Thanks Carrie! :hug:

Nice to meet you too Don. Thanks on the offer of assistance...much appreciated. I am hopeful for a relatively smooth transition from one place to another...never know though. Our trips always have some excitement...wanted or otherwise.

All of the "excitement" makes for fun stories to retell later. :thumbsup2

mommytothreeboys

05-11-2009, 08:30 AM

Good morning Carissa! Beautiful picture of you and the boys! I love it! :lovestruc

I hope you had a WONDERFUL MOTHER'S DAY!

Homeschooling 3 boys should be interesting! Can't wait to hear all about it! I'm glad you made some decisions, though...I'm sure that's a relief. Sounds like the moving plans are going well. This will be a crazy month for you! :scared:

I need to head over and read your blog at some point...note to self to do that soon!

I see Scrappie is planning a 'non-kid' trip to Disney for her anniversary...I've been trying to get Jeff to agree to that for our 20th in 2012. Seems far away, but time flies around here! I think my kids might have a fit....but Dan will be 17 by then, Isaiah will be 15, and Jonah will be 12. They'd get over it!!

carissanboys

05-11-2009, 08:58 AM

I had a wonderful Mother's Day yesterday and wanted to share a few pictures with you all.

My day started off with Chuck making muffins and bacon (we were out of eggs). I also received a card from Chuck and one from the boys. :goodvibes I decided I wanted to go letterboxing with the family so we picked up Subway sandwiches and drove to a nearby park.

We had a lovely hike through the woods and found the three letterboxes planted.

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3298.jpg

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3301.jpg

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3302.jpg

Finished with our letterboxing, we headed over to the playground and had it to ourselves. We played for a good long while and enjoyed the gorgeous weather.

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3306.jpg

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3310.jpg

On the way home:

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3325.jpg

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3326.jpg

Chuck made dinner - pasta fagioli with garlic bread. Yumm!

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3327.jpg

We finished the evening watching Bedtime Stories (the boys and I had already seen it, but Chuck hadn't).

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Before I continue with the trip report, I forgot to mention that before we left our room that morning, Chuck had given me my birthday present (I told him not to spend much since part of my present was our trip to Disney!). It was a really cute Eyeore shirt. But, it was a man's size and cut and long sleeved. It looked huge on me. It would have made a great shirt to lounge around the house, but I wanted to be able to wear my present out at the parks. So, Chuck gave me the receipt and told me I could exchange it. :love: You'll see what I exchanged it for later on.

So, we finished our dinner at Kona and played on the beach for a few minutes. Then it was time to head back over to the Magic Kingdom. We decided to leave our van in the parking lot and take the monorail over to MK. I guess because we already had a parking pass for POR, we didn't get one when we came into the Poly. Normally when we've stayed off property and gone to a resort, they give us a parking pass that is good for 2 hours or so. Since we didn't have that, I figured we were okay to stay parked. There was another reason why I wanted to do this which I will talk about later.

This is what the park looked like when we arrived:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2974.jpg

I was getting worried that we wouldn't be able to find a place for the parade. We continued walking and headed over to the Hall of Presidents, which is where we sat on our first trip for Spectro.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2975.jpg

We found a great spot with only a few people already behind the rope so we headed in there. Now, when Kathy had sent Stitch to us, she had sent along some glow sticks and asked us to pass them out during the parade. That was such an awesome idea because the boys had so much fun! There was one dad who seemed confused and asked Sully, "Are you selling them?" :rotfl: It allowed us to start talking with another family (who had 4 girls) and we ended up sitting with them.

I should have asked the woman if she happend to be on the Dis, but I didn't. And since I don't have permission to post their pictures, I'm using some stickers to cover their faces. ;) They were a very nice family!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2977-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2978.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2979.jpg

And my one and only picture of SpectroMagic:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2980.jpg

I don't seem to have a lot of luck with nighttime pictures, so I just enjoyed Spectro and Wishes without taking pictures. Sorry!

I did take a short video.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/th_MVI_2981.jpg (http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/?action=view&current=MVI_2981.flv)

The last picture of the night:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2982.jpg

When Wishes finished, I was fully expecting a mad dash of people leaving the park. What I didn't realize is that they had extended the hours and the park was open for another hour. Getting out wasn't too bad at all. :thumbsup2

Now, one of the reasons why I wanted to stay parked at the Poly was because I knew we could take the resort boat directly there instead of dealing with the monorail which was crowded. The boat ride back was very peaceful (although a bit cool).

We got to our van and drove back to POR and we were all in bed by 10:15. Our only late night of the trip. But, that was okay because the next day was an "off" day.

What a wonderful 35th birthday I had! :goodvibes

Up Next - A Migraine, Laundry, and a Surrey Ride - Oh My! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31873401&postcount=948)

carissanboys

05-11-2009, 09:05 AM

mommytothreeboys

05-11-2009, 09:09 AM

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3302.jpg

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!! You should be a very proud mama! :goodvibes

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3306.jpg

:rotfl: Some little boys never grow up!

Chuck made dinner - pasta fagioli with garlic bread. Yumm!

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3327.jpg

YUMMMMMMM!!! Pasta fagioli is one of my faves!

------------------------------------------------------------------------

We got to our van and drove back to POR and we were all in bed by 10:15. Our only late night of the trip. But, that was okay because the next day was an "off" day.

I had to laugh when I read this about being your "late" night! That would have been an early night for us! LOL! My boys are die-hards! On school nights at home they are in bed at a decent time, but on vacation, whether it's camping, Disney, etc...they can go like the Energizer bunny. Except Dan which I will talk about later in my TR. :rolleyes1

What a wonderful 35th birthday I had! :goodvibes[/COLOR]

I'm so glad you had a good birthday! What a great way to end it at MK!

Lady Lallie

05-11-2009, 09:14 AM

I think watching Spectromagic from Liberty Square is the best spot to catch it. :thumbsup2

Sounds like a wonderful birthday!

torsie24

05-11-2009, 09:18 AM

Awww, glad you had a wonderful birthday!!

Don't worry - I am awful at night time photos! We even have a firework setting on our camera and they still come out really bad!!

cjackearl

05-11-2009, 09:40 AM

You learned a lot in general or you learned a lot about me and now you think I'm crazy?? ;)

A lot in general and a lot about you but not that you're crazy.:) I want to try a few of your posted recipes and I'm intrigued by letter boxing. Sounds like a great way to spend family time outdoors. There are not a lot of boxes near us, but I think we may try it. Interestingly, the city with the most boxes by far around here is an Amish community.

Glad you had a nice Mother's Day. That soup looks delicious.

Good thinking on your parking strategy. It's always good when you can avoid the stress of dealing with the masses.

KathyRN137

05-11-2009, 11:30 AM

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3302.jpg

Great picture!! :thumbsup2

I'm so glad the boys had fun with the glow sticks!! They're a great way to break the ice...

Don't feel bad... my Spectro pix never seem to come out right, either! ;) Oh well, sometimes its best just to sit back and enjoy!!

Kathy

Lady Lallie

05-11-2009, 11:45 AM

I meant to ask...what exactly is letterboxing? :confused3

Emma's Dad

05-11-2009, 11:59 AM

Nice to meet you too Don. Thanks on the offer of assistance...much appreciated. I am hopeful for a relatively smooth transition from one place to another...never know though. Our trips always have some excitement...wanted or otherwise.

Life would be boring without the occasional "otherwise" excitement, right? :lmao:

irene_dsc

05-11-2009, 12:24 PM

Glad you had a great birthday - sounds like you had fun! And happy belated Mother's Day to you!

When I have some time, I'll have to check out your blog...curious to hear what made you decide on homeschooling, but I won't make you repeat it. I'm sure you'll be great at it, though! You are waay more organized than me...

LaurenMic

05-11-2009, 12:25 PM

All caught up! Great updates Carissa! Glad you had a great birthday...and an awesome Mother's day! Looks like Chuck is quite the cook :goodvibes

soulmates

05-11-2009, 01:10 PM

Just loving this report!!

mousescrapper

05-11-2009, 01:31 PM

I see Scrappie is planning a 'non-kid' trip to Disney for her anniversary...I've been trying to get Jeff to agree to that for our 20th in 2012. Seems far away, but time flies around here! I think my kids might have a fit....but Dan will be 17 by then, Isaiah will be 15, and Jonah will be 12. They'd get over it!!

Yes I can't wait!!!!

we are already talking about a behind the Scenes tour at 3 of the Parks or the Epcot one and the Cirque Noube (msp?) show plus dinning at places we wouldn't w/ the kids like Cal Grill, Brown Derby, Le Cellier...you get the idea :goodvibes

I think the kids will be slightly bummed...but with taking them just this past June, this yr March and next year Nov....it should be good we know we'll plan to go back agian w/ the kids in 013

You MUST DO IT!!!!!

__________________________________________________ ______________

Carissa looks like you had a lovely Mother's day...love all the pictures!

What is letterboxing though? :confused3

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nice MK update....my version of the night will be coming soon....too bad we were so close to each other on the parade route and didn't know....Mihcael would have love to hang w/ your boys!

J-

momrek06

05-11-2009, 01:45 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2951.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2954.jpg

FABULOUS!!! :teeth: That Goof...he is one awesome Goof!! ::yes::

I LOVE KONA!!! Your meal looked wonderful, Carissa!!! :woohoo:

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3298.jpg

Awww.....Carissa, what an absolutely lovely photo of you and your three boys on Mother's Day!!! :love: Cherish these times, Car...before you know, you will turn around and all three boys will be towering over YOU!!! :goodvibes

I think that is a wonderful idea to homeschool :teacher: the boys, Car! :thumbsup2

A migraine...:headache: DS#2 suffers with them. They are not fun. :sad2: I hope you are not going to say someone had a migraine in WDW. :sad1:

OT; Love the NAVY logo in your siggy, Carissa. Both my DS' are thinking of joining the Navy. They have been to the Recruiting Offices here in SoCal and have spoken to the Recruiters and have taken the test. If they sign on they would head to Newport R.I. for Officer Candidate School in October. :eek: DS#1 has a Master's in History, the signing bonus is outstanding. :thumbsup2 He is really contemplating this move. He is very interested in Logistics.

carissanboys

05-11-2009, 01:49 PM

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!! You should be a very proud mama! :goodvibes

I am! :goodvibes

I had to laugh when I read this about being your "late" night! That would have been an early night for us! LOL! My boys are die-hards! On school nights at home they are in bed at a decent time, but on vacation, whether it's camping, Disney, etc...they can go like the Energizer bunny. Except Dan which I will talk about later in my TR. :rolleyes1

Owen and Connor are normally in bed by 7 p.m. every night (Sully is 8 p.m.) so staying up that late is really hard for them. Even when they stay up late, they don't sleep in. My plan for this summer and when we're homeschooling is to have them still go to bed at the same time, but let them read for up to an hour.

I think watching Spectromagic from Liberty Square is the best spot to catch it. :thumbsup2

Sounds like a wonderful birthday!

I was surprised there were spaces open over there since Main St. was so packed! I don't think most people realize the path it follows.

Awww, glad you had a wonderful birthday!!

Don't worry - I am awful at night time photos! We even have a firework setting on our camera and they still come out really bad!!

I even read a book about my camera on the drive down, but didn't really get a chance to try it out. Someday!

A lot in general and a lot about you but not that you're crazy.:) I want to try a few of your posted recipes and I'm intrigued by letter boxing. Sounds like a great way to spend family time outdoors. There are not a lot of boxes near us, but I think we may try it. Interestingly, the city with the most boxes by far around here is an Amish community.

Glad you had a nice Mother's Day. That soup looks delicious.

Good thinking on your parking strategy. It's always good when you can avoid the stress of dealing with the masses.

I'm glad you enjoyed my blog. :goodvibes We LOVE letterboxing! It's such a great way to get to know an area and I can't wait to do some down in Virginia. :thumbsup2

Great picture!! :thumbsup2

I'm so glad the boys had fun with the glow sticks!! They're a great way to break the ice...

Don't feel bad... my Spectro pix never seem to come out right, either! ;) Oh well, sometimes its best just to sit back and enjoy!!

Kathy

Exactly! :)

I meant to ask...what exactly is letterboxing? :confused3

Here's a link to an entry in my blog titled "Letterboxing 101." It should explain it. :thumbsup2

Letterboxing 101 (http://willtravelbyfoot.blogspot.com/2009/03/letterboxing-101.html)

Glad you had a great birthday - sounds like you had fun! And happy belated Mother's Day to you!

When I have some time, I'll have to check out your blog...curious to hear what made you decide on homeschooling, but I won't make you repeat it. I'm sure you'll be great at it, though! You are waay more organized than me...

I didn't go into all of my reasons for deciding to homeschool (trying not to get too political ;) ), but more the general reasons. One big reason that I didn't mention is that I feel strongly that Sully has dysgraphia, but the school isn't doing anything about it.

Hope you had a great Mother's Day Irene! :goodvibes

All caught up! Great updates Carissa! Glad you had a great birthday...and an awesome Mother's day! Looks like Chuck is quite the cook :goodvibes

He is - and it's nice to have someone else take over once in a while. :thumbsup2

Just loving this report!!

Thanks so much! :cloud9:

Carissa looks like you had a lovely Mother's day...love all the pictures!

What is letterboxing though? :confused3

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nice MK update....my version of the night will be coming soon....too bad we were so close to each other on the parade route and didn't know....Mihcael would have love to hang w/ your boys!

J-

I posted a link above that will take you to my blog and explain letterboxing. It's a lot of fun and a great family activity! :thumbsup2

That does stink. We had more glow sticks to share!

carissanboys

05-11-2009, 01:56 PM

[OT; Love the NAVY logo in your siggy, Carissa. Both my DS' are thinking of joining the Navy. They have been to the Recruiting Offices here in SoCal and have spoken to the Recruiters and have taken the test. If they sign on they would head to Newport R.I. for Officer Candidate School in October. :eek: DS#1 has a Master's in History, the signing bonus is outstanding. :thumbsup2 He is really contemplating this move. He is very interested in Logistics.

Really? That's cool Karen! If he likes to travel, it's a great life. Chuck is in Logistics. :thumbsup2

liznboys

05-11-2009, 03:22 PM

mnkyboy24

05-11-2009, 03:26 PM

After shortly missing a tornado on our way down to Disney, I'll take a pass on the "otherwise" excitement. It definitely makes you feel uneasy, I can't even imagine how people who actually went through that tornado felt!

Life would be boring without the occasional "otherwise" excitement, right? :lmao:

dddisrunner

05-11-2009, 08:19 PM

Carissa, congratulations on working everything out with the boys and school! :thumbsup2 LOVED your Mother's Day update! The pictures are GREAT! I love the one of the boys standing one behind the other! I have a question though. What is letterboxing? That might sound silly, but I honestly don't know!:goodvibes What a great night you had at the Magic Kingdom!! I think I might skip the picture taking of Spectro and Wishes too! How fun that you shared the glowsticks too!:goodvibes

Charleston Princess

05-11-2009, 08:23 PM

Ah, Carissa, you had the perfect Mother's Day yesterday!

Passing out glow sticks at the parade is such a great idea! I may have to steal/borrow that idea!

DisMomAmy

05-11-2009, 08:28 PM

Sounds like you had a great birthday and Mother's Day!! Letterboxing looks like a lot of fun!

jmskinner

05-12-2009, 07:02 AM

Love the idea of the glowsticks. May have to try that sometime.

I had a question about your move. I saw that your plan was for the movers to pack you up Friday and you be on your way Saturday. Do we have too much stuff? It always takes 2 days to pack us and then the moving truck comes on the third day and usually doesn't leave until late afternoon, so we end up another day. Unless it is like our DC move. First truck wasn't big enough(they already had two other families belongings on it). So they took what they could, next truck showed up after 5:00pm and wasn't big enough, so they send another truck the following afternoon and we were finally on the rode at 3:00am.:scared1: I hope yours goes much smoother.

Your Mothers Day sounded great. Glad you had a nice one!

Ok, so what did you end up getting for your Birthday????

WDWAtLast

05-12-2009, 07:14 AM

Great pics!! The steak at Kona looks yummy!!!

carissanboys

05-12-2009, 09:29 AM

Sounds like you had a nice Mother's Day! :) That dinner looks so yummy, especially right now...it's really chilly and dreary out.

You sat where WE sat together for Spectro. :goodvibes Everytime we're in that area I think of our time there together.

You did have a wonderful birthday! :cloud9:

It was a little bit further down than where we sat together (on the other side of HOP), but just about the same spot. That was a very special evening. :goodvibes

Carissa, congratulations on working everything out with the boys and school! :thumbsup2 LOVED your Mother's Day update! The pictures are GREAT! I love the one of the boys standing one behind the other! I have a question though. What is letterboxing? That might sound silly, but I honestly don't know!:goodvibes What a great night you had at the Magic Kingdom!! I think I might skip the picture taking of Spectro and Wishes too! How fun that you shared the glowsticks too!:goodvibes

There is a link above in reply to someone else that takes you to a post in my blog about letterboxing. :thumbsup2

Ah, Carissa, you had the perfect Mother's Day yesterday!

Passing out glow sticks at the parade is such a great idea! I may have to steal/borrow that idea!

It really was a lot of fun. Sully loved doing it.

Sounds like you had a great birthday and Mother's Day!! Letterboxing looks like a lot of fun!

It is a ton of fun. It's something that I can see Chuck and I continuing to do even after the boys leave home.

Love the idea of the glowsticks. May have to try that sometime.

I had a question about your move. I saw that your plan was for the movers to pack you up Friday and you be on your way Saturday. Do we have too much stuff? It always takes 2 days to pack us and then the moving truck comes on the third day and usually doesn't leave until late afternoon, so we end up another day. Unless it is like our DC move. First truck wasn't big enough(they already had two other families belongings on it). So they took what they could, next truck showed up after 5:00pm and wasn't big enough, so they send another truck the following afternoon and we were finally on the rode at 3:00am.:scared1: I hope yours goes much smoother.

Your Mothers Day sounded great. Glad you had a nice one!

Ok, so what did you end up getting for your Birthday????

Chuck and I were just talking about this yesterday. Compared to other families we know, we don't have much stuff. It has never taken them more than one day to pack us up - and not even a full day.

Didn't they do a survey ahead of time to find out how much stuff you had and what size truck they'd need and number of boxes, etc.? We had the guy come over yesterday to do that.

Great pics!! The steak at Kona looks yummy!!!

Thanks - it was delicious!

jmskinner

05-12-2009, 09:44 AM

Chuck and I were just talking about this yesterday. Compared to other families we know, we don't have much stuff. It has never taken them more than one day to pack us up - and not even a full day.

Didn't they do a survey ahead of time to find out how much stuff you had and what size truck they'd need and number of boxes, etc.? We had the guy come over yesterday to do that.

Yup, they did a survey, but I think the other two families had more stuff than they thought and then we had more than they thought. We have a lot of stuff and the next move will be even worse because we added an additional living room and breakfast area with this house so now more furniture to move. But that's it, no more stuff. Did you ever see George Carlin's routine about Stuff. It so fits us!

DisneyMomLiz

05-12-2009, 11:37 AM

Just popped over to say, great story about the glow sticks...I bought some for our DS in advance of our trip, from tips from other Disers, but now i'll go buy some more to give away. What a great way to share the MAGIC :wizard:

Still loving your TR...thanks for sharing! Happy Belated Mother's Day and glad you and your family have settled on next year's schooling. I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision, but hope everything works out for you, all the best! :goodvibes

Goofster57

05-12-2009, 04:28 PM

Another nice update Carissa, :thumbsup2

Liked all the pictures

You guys lucked out on the Parade seats.

I have never sat and watched Spectro, guess I wanted to go on rides more.

Happydog

05-12-2009, 10:03 PM

What a nice ending to your Birthday Celebration! Your photos and description of the parade and MK was great to read! I look forward to hearing about your Birthday shirt exchange and your next day at Disney! :goodvibes

Emma's Dad

05-13-2009, 10:12 AM

I just had to share this topiary we found at EPCOT when we were there in April:

http://members.cox.net/go0s3man/Dsc02273a.jpg

blue_river

05-13-2009, 11:29 AM

Catching up....... :banana:

We've already talked about your homeschooling the boys :thumbsup2

Loved your Mother's Day pics :goodvibes

The glow sticks idea always seems to be a hit :wizard:

and a nice way to spread some pixiedust while at WDW!!

MagicShell

05-13-2009, 12:18 PM

Waiting to see your shirt!

DisneyJo

05-13-2009, 01:29 PM

What a great end to your Birthday and I've added your blog to my blog list :thumbsup2

GGOOFY1

05-13-2009, 06:21 PM

I just had to share this topiary we found at EPCOT when we were there in April:

http://members.cox.net/go0s3man/Dsc02273a.jpg

I love it. Stitch is soo cute.:lovestruc

lazydoxy66

05-14-2009, 01:57 AM

You had a great birthday at WDW.

You had a great mom's day too!!! Having someone else cook breakfast is nice no matter what it is. ;)

carissanboys

05-14-2009, 07:14 AM

Yup, they did a survey, but I think the other two families had more stuff than they thought and then we had more than they thought. We have a lot of stuff and the next move will be even worse because we added an additional living room and breakfast area with this house so now more furniture to move. But that's it, no more stuff. Did you ever see George Carlin's routine about Stuff. It so fits us!

No, I've never seen it. I try not to keep much "stuff." It drives me nuts. Chuck is more of a "stuff" keeper. ;)

Just popped over to say, great story about the glow sticks...I bought some for our DS in advance of our trip, from tips from other Disers, but now i'll go buy some more to give away. What a great way to share the MAGIC :wizard:

Still loving your TR...thanks for sharing! Happy Belated Mother's Day and glad you and your family have settled on next year's schooling. I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision, but hope everything works out for you, all the best! :goodvibes

Thanks! :goodvibes

Another nice update Carissa, :thumbsup2

Liked all the pictures

You guys lucked out on the Parade seats.

I have never sat and watched Spectro, guess I wanted to go on rides more.

You should see Spectro at least once! I'm not a parade person, but Spectro is awesome.

What a nice ending to your Birthday Celebration! Your photos and description of the parade and MK was great to read! I look forward to hearing about your Birthday shirt exchange and your next day at Disney! :goodvibes

Thanks!

I just had to share this topiary we found at EPCOT when we were there in April:

http://members.cox.net/go0s3man/Dsc02273a.jpg

I have a very similar picture to post when I get to that point in my TR. :rolleyes1

Catching up....... :banana:

We've already talked about your homeschooling the boys :thumbsup2

Loved your Mother's Day pics :goodvibes

The glow sticks idea always seems to be a hit :wizard:

and a nice way to spread some pixiedust while at WDW!!

It really was. :)

Waiting to see your shirt!

Soon!

What a great end to your Birthday and I've added your blog to my blog list :thumbsup2

Cool! :cool1:

I love it. Stitch is soo cute.:lovestruc

He is that - and a bit mischievous. ;)

You had a great birthday at WDW.

You had a great mom's day too!!! Having someone else cook breakfast is nice no matter what it is. ;)

I agree! Chuck cooks breakfast most weekend mornings.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just a quick note to let you all know that I'm taking a break from the computer for a few days. I have a lot going on right now and need to focus on that. I plan to have the next installment up on Monday. Hope you all have a great weekend! :goodvibes

mommytothreeboys

05-14-2009, 08:22 AM

Just wanted to let you know I miss ya! I know how busy you must be right now...take it easy and do one thing at a time. We'll all be here when you come back! :goodvibes

Emma's Dad

05-14-2009, 08:34 AM

I have a very similar picture to post when I get to that point in my TR. :rolleyes1

Oops! :guilty: Didn't mean to give anything away! Can't wait to see your picture... I'm sure you have more than just the topiary in it :thumbsup2

Just a quick note to let you all know that I'm taking a break from the computer for a few days. I have a lot going on right now and need to focus on that. I plan to have the next installment up on Monday. Hope you all have a great weekend! :goodvibes

I can only imagine what all you have going on with the upcoming move and all... if there's one thing I don't miss about the military, it would be the moving part! We're keeping your family in our prayers.

wvdislover

05-14-2009, 01:55 PM

Carissa, great updates! I'm so glad you had such a nice Mother's Day :goodvibes Letterboxing looks a lot like geocaching, which we enjoy doing as a family. We may have to try the letterboxing some day...I read about one just a few miles from my house that we could go look for! Glad you finally made a decision about school--I'm sure that's quite a relief. I really enjoy homeschooling...it can be very rewarding and allows for a lot of flexibility to do extra things, like go to WDW!!! Hope all your packing and whatnot goes well. Looking forward to your next update!

Goofster57

05-14-2009, 06:34 PM

:dance3:

Place Holder so I don't miss anything

pamouselover

05-15-2009, 08:55 AM

Hi I am working full time now, and no time to Dis at my new job. LOL
I go in late today so playing catch up on my DIs threads.
Really behind here. So glad you rode RNRC! :cool1:

pamouselover

05-15-2009, 09:02 AM

:goodvibes So glad you enjoyed your birthday dinner at Kona.
I can not wait to get back there and eat that yummy steak again!

pamouselover

05-15-2009, 09:14 AM

All caught up! So glad you had a happy 35th birthday in WDW!
HOpe the move goes well! Hit the beach for me as soon as you can, and post a picture for me!

wahoostampingirl

05-15-2009, 06:09 PM

We saw Spectromagic for the first time on our trip this past Jan. Our dd7 and ds7 are like your and go to bed early at home. My dd, especially, gets really cranky if we try to keep her up late, so we don't do a lot of the nighttime things yet. Spectro, however, was totally worth it. My favorite parade spot in the MK is on the big planter boxes in Frontierland. It's not too crowded, there is pin shopping right behind you and bathrooms are easy to get to. Downside is that you end up watching Wishes from an odd angle.

Letterboxing sounds like fun. I looked it up and there there are a lot near my house, so I might take the kids out for an adventure soon.

Happydog

05-17-2009, 09:56 AM

Hope you have fun at the Air Show this weekend -- we didn't know if the weather was going to hold ???

:)

carissanboys

05-18-2009, 07:09 AM

Just wanted to let you know I miss ya! I know how busy you must be right now...take it easy and do one thing at a time. We'll all be here when you come back! :goodvibes

Thanks Missy! It was a busy weekend, but relaxing at the same time. :goodvibes

Oops! :guilty: Didn't mean to give anything away! Can't wait to see your picture... I'm sure you have more than just the topiary in it :thumbsup2

You would be correct! ;)

Carissa, great updates! I'm so glad you had such a nice Mother's Day :goodvibes Letterboxing looks a lot like geocaching, which we enjoy doing as a family. We may have to try the letterboxing some day...I read about one just a few miles from my house that we could go look for! Glad you finally made a decision about school--I'm sure that's quite a relief. I really enjoy homeschooling...it can be very rewarding and allows for a lot of flexibility to do extra things, like go to WDW!!! Hope all your packing and whatnot goes well. Looking forward to your next update!

By the way, I found out that the boys' current school WILL promote them and it's no big deal about them leaving early. They'll have everything ready for me on their last day. So, one less thing to worry about. :thumbsup2

:dance3:

Place Holder so I don't miss anything

:goodvibes

Hi I am working full time now, and no time to Dis at my new job. LOL
I go in late today so playing catch up on my DIs threads.
Really behind here. So glad you rode RNRC! :cool1:

Hey girl! I've missed seeing you around! :hug: Thanks for stopping by. :goodvibes

We saw Spectromagic for the first time on our trip this past Jan. Our dd7 and ds7 are like your and go to bed early at home. My dd, especially, gets really cranky if we try to keep her up late, so we don't do a lot of the nighttime things yet. Spectro, however, was totally worth it. My favorite parade spot in the MK is on the big planter boxes in Frontierland. It's not too crowded, there is pin shopping right behind you and bathrooms are easy to get to. Downside is that you end up watching Wishes from an odd angle.

We move to Main Street right after Spectro finishes. :thumbsup2 There's always some spots open.

Hope you have fun at the Air Show this weekend -- we didn't know if the weather was going to hold ???

:)

Yeah - the forecast wasn't great this weekend, but it ended up being better than they predicted. We went on Saturday and it was very busy. But, we had a great time. STayed fo a couple of hours. I do have some pictures that I'll try to share later.

carissanboys

05-18-2009, 08:48 AM

~ March 31st, 2009 ~

Seeing as we were up late the night before, we all slept in until about 7:30 the next morning. The only concrete plans we had were dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe and a carriage ride later in the evening. Unfortunately, I woke up with a migraine. I was glad it happened on an off day rather than a park day.

We ate breakfast in the room and I got dressed and got ready to do some laundry. The laundry facilities look just like a small laundromat. It was a bit pricey though! $2 a load to wash and the same to dry.

During one of my trips back and forth, I let Sully come with me and he hung out at the quiet pool (didn't swim). He befriended two boys from Scotland. They were playing with a ball so whenever it would end up outside of the pool, Sully would get it for them.

Once the laundry was finished we decided to try going for a surrey ride.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2984.jpg

We started out trying to get the smaller one and have Connor and Owen right in the front "baskets", but Connor wouldn't do it. He's scared of heights and I just don't think he felt safe. So, we opted to get the bigger one. Sully ended up helping to pedal quite a bit. We did two loops around and were pretty hot and sweaty by the time we finished. I believe it cost about $20 for a 30 minute rental.

By this time we were getting hungry so thought we'd hop the water taxi and head to Downtown Disney.

Sometimes on the boat rides we would get a very informative captain. One of them explained all about the Treehouse Villas. Some of you may already know all of this, but it was new to us so I thought I'd share.

The old Tree Houses were closed years ago because it became illegal to build in Wetlands and that meant Disney could not make repairs (and stay current with handicap codes). Disney ended up buying lots of wetlands and donated them to conservation. In return they were granted permission to rebuild. There are 60 tree houses and they're all brand new as the old ones were torn down.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2985.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2986.jpg

When we arrived at DTD we headed to Wolfgang Puck Express. I'd always wanted to try this place and I will say it did NOT disappoint! It has become our new favorite (we're big fans of Earl of Sandwich, but I think we like WPE even more).

I can't remember what we had exactly (there was some confusion as to what I had because I don't think it was really what I ordered, but it was delicious none the less), but I have pictures. I don't have time at the moment to go look it up.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2987.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2990.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2989.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2988.jpg

After lunch we headed out to do some shopping. Just a few minutes after leaving the restaurant, we realized Sully must have left his hat inside. Chuck went back, but it wasn't there. The staff said they hadn't found it. We know Sully had the hat on the boat and we only went to the restaurant so it had to be left there. :confused3 We stopped back in one more time on our way back to POR and there was still no sign of it. :sad1:

Anyway - off to look around! (BTW - my migraine was gone by this time - must be the magic of Disney World!)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2991.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2992.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2993.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2994.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2995.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2996.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2997.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2998.jpg

I don't remember if Sully picked out anything on this particular shopping outing, but Owen and Connor got Stitch Disney Racers and we all got some pins (I think I have pictures of the pins a bit later).

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2999.jpg

We got back on the boat and headed back to POR. It was quite hot and humid by this time. We were glad it was one of our off days!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3000.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3001.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3002.jpg

I will try and get caught up on all TRs and PTRs tomorrow! I've been on too long this morning and need to get busy.

Up Next - Can Doing the Hokey Pokey Make You Sick? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32155116&postcount=1038)

KathyRN137

05-18-2009, 09:24 AM

mommytothreeboys

05-18-2009, 09:50 AM

Good morning Carissa! :hug:

Love the update! We saw people using the surrey bikes...looked fun! Are you limited to POR or can you ride the path to POFQ?

WPE is fabulous! We enjoyed a meal there as well. I love the food porn...YUMMM!! :thumbsup2

Sorry about the migraine..that's an awful way to wake up! Glad it cleared up for you and you were able to enjoy the day.

Those Treehouse villas are beautiful! Did you see them all lit up at night? Very pretty!

MagicShell

05-18-2009, 11:27 AM

Sounds like you were making the most of the day even though you didn't feel well. Surrey bike riding sounds like too much work for me, especially after walking around parks all week. I am a bit lazy, however.

BrooklynnsMommy

05-18-2009, 11:36 AM

I loved staying at Port Orleans on our honeymoon because of the boat ride to Downtown Disney. It was so nice and relaxing and just a change of pace from the buses. John really wants to stay in the treehouses and I think it would be cool. Guess we will have to rent points from somebody one day and check them out.

DisMomAmy

05-18-2009, 12:43 PM

Looks like a fun day! Sorry about the migraine though... we wanted to ride the surrey bikes but they weren't open on the morning we were free - they didn't open until 11am at CBR.

We didn't make it over to DTD at all this year - that'll be on our must do list next time. :thumbsup2

dismagiclover

05-18-2009, 01:15 PM

Hey Carissa. Sounds like a fun time. So did you like the Surrey bikes? Would you recommend it? We're staying at the Beach Club next month and thought it might be fun to ride the Surrey bikes around the boardwalk, but not quite sure I want to do it in the heat.
Loving your report even though I don't always post:goodvibes

carrieannie

05-18-2009, 01:18 PM

Ahh,the memories POR, :cloud9: Thanks for the pictures.
How did you guys do peddling the Surry bike? we did it on our first trip to POR. It was much harder than we expected! :scared: now whenever we pass them at a Disney Resort its kinda become a tradition for us all to say "never again" at the same time! :rotfl:
The food looks yummy! especially that flat bread sandwich! :love:

I`m looking forward to hearing about Whispering Canyon..popcorn::

momrek06

05-18-2009, 01:20 PM

GREAT UPDATE, Carissa!!! :yay: Your migraine...:headache: not fun esp at WDW...but at least you did not struggle with it all day long. :goodvibes

Your meals at WPE look scrumptious!! :woohoo: The boys look adorable as pirate: outside of WOD!!!! :goodvibes

carrieannie

05-18-2009, 01:36 PM

Here is what was inside:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2951.jpg

Keith (Goofster57) had so generously sent us a bunch of pins to trade. Isn't he the best?? :hug:

And then there was also this:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2954.jpg

I absolutely loved it! :love: It was just the perfect gift. It had Stitch on it, and I was able to carry around all of my important stuff without having to take my purse every day. Made it easier to carry my big camera around. Keith's package really brightened our day. :cloud9:

(Sorry Keith - I'm going to stop here so you'll have to wait until the next installment for the food porn.)

Up Next - My Birthday Dinner at Kona (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31707535&postcount=842)

GOOF! YOUR THE BEST! :worship: :dance3:
Great assortment of pins! and the lanyard is wicked cool!! :cool2:

AlohaAnnie

05-18-2009, 02:02 PM

carrieannie

05-18-2009, 02:25 PM

Sorry for the hijack! I just had to post our picture of the surrey bikes from May 2005! :rolleyes1 years ago! WOW, this was taken BEFORE we went riding around the resort. After,,we were hot tired and alittle grumpy. ;)

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa288/carrieannie_photos/100_0371-1.jpg

WillowBelle

05-18-2009, 03:45 PM

Those surrey bikes are quite decieving aren't they. Look so sweet, innocent and fun. Once you start to peddle up that first incline you're sweating your brains out :rotfl:. DH and I rode one of those in 2006 and swore never again!

cjackearl

05-18-2009, 06:13 PM

Ugh, I now can't get Surrey with the Fringe on Top out of my head. Remember when Harry and Sally sang that in the toy store scene in When Harry Met Sally?:rotfl: Sorry, I know totally OT, but that's how my mind works.

Great DTD pictures. Did your boys like the Mr. Potato Heads? I've considered bringing a head just in case Ian wants to spend money on pieces parts. Your wrap thing from WPE looks delicious.

Charleston Princess

05-18-2009, 08:08 PM

What a bummer to have a migraine at Disney -- even if it was one of your off days!

Surrey bikes always sound like a good idea, but then I read about how hot and tired everyone is afterwards, and I change my mind. :laughing:

Lunch at Wolfgang Express looks delicious!!!

carrieannie

05-18-2009, 11:17 PM

[QUOTE]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2964.jpg
yummy!!! :cloud9: nice presentation! very pretty.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2970.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2969.jpg
Beautiful pictures!!! :lovestruc

The boys played in the sand while Chuck and I sat on the swing. We didn't stay too long since we wanted to get back to Magic Kingdom for SpectroMagic and Wishes.
this is one of those Disney ''moments'' that makes the trip special. :hug:

Happydog

05-18-2009, 11:27 PM

NIce update with the photos from POR and the surrey! Also WPE, WOW can't wait to try that on for size! We planned a lunch there -- yay!

So was the hat a total lost cause? :confused3

M & K + 6

05-18-2009, 11:31 PM

Bummer about Sully's hat!!! Did it have Disney pins on it? Hope it didn't:scared1:

carissanboys

05-19-2009, 07:33 AM

Aww, sorry about your migraine. :headache: But you're right... at least it happened on an "off" day, so thank heavens for small favors!

Pedaling that surrey bike is hard work in the heat, isn't it?? I was surprised by that when we did it. Fun though!! :thumbsup2

Ooooh, the food looks yummy!

Luv that boat ride, too!!

Kathy

Thanks. I knew I was going to get one while on my trip (mine are hormonal so they're pretty much like clockwork) so I was glad it worked out well.

Good morning Carissa! :hug:

Love the update! We saw people using the surrey bikes...looked fun! Are you limited to POR or can you ride the path to POFQ?

Those Treehouse villas are beautiful! Did you see them all lit up at night? Very pretty!

They give you a map and a path to follow and I'm pretty sure you just ride around POR.

Yes, we did see them lit up at night. Gave you a chance to sneak a peak inside. :thumbsup2

Sounds like you were making the most of the day even though you didn't feel well. Surrey bike riding sounds like too much work for me, especially after walking around parks all week. I am a bit lazy, however.

:rotfl: I think Chuck might have agreed with you. I thought it was fun.

I loved staying at Port Orleans on our honeymoon because of the boat ride to Downtown Disney. It was so nice and relaxing and just a change of pace from the buses. John really wants to stay in the treehouses and I think it would be cool. Guess we will have to rent points from somebody one day and check them out.

I'd love to stay in the treehouses! I can't wait until someone does a TR on them. :goodvibes

Looks like a fun day! Sorry about the migraine though... we wanted to ride the surrey bikes but they weren't open on the morning we were free - they didn't open until 11am at CBR.

We didn't make it over to DTD at all this year - that'll be on our must do list next time. :thumbsup2

The only reason we went to DTD so much was because of the boat ride. Normally we only make it over once.

Hey Carissa. Sounds like a fun time. So did you like the Surrey bikes? Would you recommend it? We're staying at the Beach Club next month and thought it might be fun to ride the Surrey bikes around the boardwalk, but not quite sure I want to do it in the heat.
Loving your report even though I don't always post:goodvibes

Hey Jenny! I enjoyed the bike ride, but I could definitely see it being much less fun in the heat! Not sure what time they start renting them over there, but if you can do it on a milder day and as early in the day as possible it might not be too bad. They're covered so at least you have shade. :thumbsup2

Ahh,the memories POR, :cloud9: Thanks for the pictures.
How did you guys do peddling the Surry bike? we did it on our first trip to POR. It was much harder than we expected! :scared: now whenever we pass them at a Disney Resort its kinda become a tradition for us all to say "never again" at the same time! :rotfl:
The food looks yummy! especially that flat bread sandwich! :love:

I`m looking forward to hearing about Whispering Canyon..popcorn::

I didn't think pedaling was too bad! I sat in the front because I showed my license and I was suppose to be the driver. Chuck should have been the one to sit in the front because he has really long legs and the back made it difficult for him to pedal. Sully sat up front with me. Maybe having an adult in front and one in back made it easier to pedal? I know Chuck thought it was a lot of work and we did switch off at one point for a little bit. I'd do it again for sure!

GREAT UPDATE, Carissa!!! :yay: Your migraine...:headache: not fun esp at WDW...but at least you did not struggle with it all day long. :goodvibes

Your meals at WPE look scrumptious!! :woohoo: The boys look adorable as pirate: outside of WOD!!!! :goodvibes

I love Owen's face in that one. :rotfl: I told them to say "Argh!"

carissanboys

05-19-2009, 07:34 AM

Carissa,

Enjoyed update, I laid my sunglasses on top of one of the fastpass machines at Hollywood Studios, the ones by little mermaid, I walked away for a few seconds (realized I left my sunglasses) turned around and they were gone.

It was that fast.

My DH left the video camera at Crystal Palace but luckily we got that back.

Enjoyed pics of DTD and thanks for adding information about laundry. We plan on doing laundry in June.

Tina

Sometimes we want to think that people at Disney World are more honest than the rest of the country, but you still have dishonest people everywhere. :guilty:

Sorry for the hijack! I just had to post our picture of the surrey bikes from May 2005! :rolleyes1 years ago! WOW, this was taken BEFORE we went riding around the resort. After,,we were hot tired and alittle grumpy. ;)

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa288/carrieannie_photos/100_0371-1.jpg

Great picture Carrie! Thanks for sharing. :goodvibes

Those surrey bikes are quite decieving aren't they. Look so sweet, innocent and fun. Once you start to peddle up that first incline you're sweating your brains out :rotfl:. DH and I rode one of those in 2006 and swore never again!

I guess the one we rode is 100 lbs more than the next size down. :eek:

Ugh, I now can't get Surrey with the Fringe on Top out of my head. Remember when Harry and Sally sang that in the toy store scene in When Harry Met Sally?:rotfl: Sorry, I know totally OT, but that's how my mind works.

My favorite movie of all time! :goodvibes

Great DTD pictures. Did your boys like the Mr. Potato Heads? I've considered bringing a head just in case Ian wants to spend money on pieces parts. Your wrap thing from WPE looks delicious.

They really didn't play with them much. We have one at home (we have the Indiana Jones Mr. Potato Head too) and I really wanted one of the boys to pick the box of accessories as one of their souvenirs, but they didn't. They have some really cute stuff!

What a bummer to have a migraine at Disney -- even if it was one of your off days!

Surrey bikes always sound like a good idea, but then I read about how hot and tired everyone is afterwards, and I change my mind. :laughing:

Lunch at Wolfgang Express looks delicious!!!

Those chips they serve with the sandwiches are so good too!

[QUOTE=carissanboys;31707535][FONT="Trebuchet MS"][SIZE="3"]

[COLOR="purple"]this is one of those Disney ''moments'' that makes the trip special. :hug:

Definitely! :goodvibes

NIce update with the photos from POR and the surrey! Also WPE, WOW can't wait to try that on for size! We planned a lunch there -- yay!

So was the hat a total lost cause? :confused3

Yes, I'm afraid we never saw the hat again. But, Sully ended up getting a very nice replacement. ;)

Bummer about Sully's hat!!! Did it have Disney pins on it? Hope it didn't:scared1:

Yes, it did have a few pins on it. :sad2:

MeMom

05-19-2009, 08:34 AM

Sometimes we want to think that people at Disney World are more honest than the rest of the country, but you still have dishonest people everywhere. :guilty:

That's true. We leave packages in the stroller all the time.
I'd have a pretty sick feeling if we came back and they were gone.

We haven't done a surrey bike, but I'd like to someday when we have all the guys!

Your report is one of the bright spots in my days. Thanks for the pictures!

jmskinner

05-19-2009, 09:35 AM

With me being gone 5 days I thought I would have missed a lot of updates, but nope just one. I know you are extremely busy getting ready to move.

Sorry to hear about Sully's hat. We lost a package just the other weekend, luckily it was only $7, so honestly we didn't look too hard.

That food at WPE looks fantastic. We must give it a try!

LaurenMic

05-19-2009, 10:18 AM

Hey Carissa! Looks like you guys had fun on your "off" day! I"m sorry you had a migraine, those are the worst! You are a trooper doing laundry with one! The food at WPE looks great!

mousescrapper

05-19-2009, 10:54 AM

Ugh, I now can't get Surrey with the Fringe on Top out of my head. Remember when Harry and Sally sang that in the toy store scene in When Harry Met Sally?:rotfl: Sorry, I know totally OT, but that's how my mind works.

:rotfl: I love that movie....makes me want to watch it now. Plus I have a soft spot for the musical Oklahoma too, as we performed in HS and I was in the stage crew on lighting.

Carissa, bummer on the migrane glad it didn't ruin your off-day plans.

2 great reviews now of WPE...may have to try that next yr! :thumbsup2

Goofster57

05-19-2009, 06:01 PM

Great update Carissa, lots of pictures and Food Porn......:banana:

Those bikes look like to much work too me.

Cool information about the Treehouses, I had not heard that about them

I have never eaten at Wolfies in Disney World, we did eat at his place in Las Vegas and we're not overly impressed.

What was the price range if you remember?

Sorry to hear about Sully's hat, Don't you wish everyone would just practice the golden rule

(I think I have pictures of the pins a bit later)

There had better be....

Up Next - Can Doing the Hokey Pokey Make You Sick?

Well of course it can...:laughing:

And Whispering Canyon is coming up too...Right?????

dddisrunner

05-19-2009, 07:59 PM

~ March 31st, 2009 ~

Seeing as we were up late the night before, we all slept in until about 7:30 the next morning. The only concrete plans we had were dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe and a carriage ride later in the evening. Unfortunately, I woke up with a migraine. I was glad it happened on an off day rather than a park day.

We ate breakfast in the room and I got dressed and got ready to do some laundry. The laundry facilities look just like a small laundromat. It was a bit pricey though! $2 a load to wash and the same to dry.

During one of my trips back and forth, I let Sully come with me and he hung out at the quiet pool (didn't swim). He befriended two boys from Scotland. They were playing with a ball so whenever it would end up outside of the pool, Sully would get it for them.

Once the laundry was finished we decided to try going for a surrey ride.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2984.jpg

We started out trying to get the smaller one and have Connor and Owen right in the front "baskets", but Connor wouldn't do it. He's scared of heights and I just don't think he felt safe. So, we opted to get the bigger one. Sully ended up helping to pedal quite a bit. We did two loops around and were pretty hot and sweaty by the time we finished. I believe it cost about $20 for a 30 minute rental.

By this time we were getting hungry so thought we'd hop the water taxi and head to Downtown Disney.

Sometimes on the boat rides we would get a very informative captain. One of them explained all about the Treehouse Villas. Some of you may already know all of this, but it was new to us so I thought I'd share.

The old Tree Houses were closed years ago because it became illegal to build in Wetlands and that meant Disney could not make repairs (and stay current with handicap codes). Disney ended up buying lots of wetlands and donated them to conservation. In return they were granted permission to rebuild. There are 60 tree houses and they're all brand new as the old ones were torn down.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2985.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2986.jpg

When we arrived at DTD we headed to Wolfgang Puck Express. I'd always wanted to try this place and I will say it did NOT disappoint! It has become our new favorite (we're big fans of Earl of Sandwich, but I think we like WPE even more).

I can't remember what we had exactly (there was some confusion as to what I had because I don't think it was really what I ordered, but it was delicious none the less), but I have pictures. I don't have time at the moment to go look it up.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2987.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2990.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2989.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2988.jpg

After lunch we headed out to do some shopping. Just a few minutes after leaving the restaurant, we realized Sully must have left his hat inside. Chuck went back, but it wasn't there. The staff said they hadn't found it. We know Sully had the hat on the boat and we only went to the restaurant so it had to be left there. :confused3 We stopped back in one more time on our way back to POR and there was still no sign of it. :sad1:

Anyway - off to look around! (BTW - my migraine was gone by this time - must be the magic of Disney World!)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2991.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2992.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2993.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2994.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2995.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2996.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2997.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2998.jpg

I don't remember if Sully picked out anything on this particular shopping outing, but Owen and Connor got Stitch Disney Racers and we all got some pins (I think I have pictures of the pins a bit later).

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2999.jpg

We got back on the boat and headed back to POR. It was quite hot and humid by this time. We were glad it was one of our off days!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3000.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3001.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3002.jpg

I will try and get caught up on all TRs and PTRs tomorrow! I've been on too long this morning and need to get busy.

Up Next - Can Doing the Hokey Pokey Make You Sick?

Sorry you woke up not feeling well! Glad it went away pretty quick though! LOVED the story about the Treehouse Villas. We saw them being torn down and I never realized why! The food pics look AWESOME! The boys expressions are too cute! Looks like a fun day!:thumbsup2

carissanboys

05-20-2009, 07:45 AM

Your report is one of the bright spots in my days. Thanks for the pictures!

Awww - thanks MeMom! :hug:

With me being gone 5 days I thought I would have missed a lot of updates, but nope just one. I know you are extremely busy getting ready to move.

Sorry to hear about Sully's hat. We lost a package just the other weekend, luckily it was only $7, so honestly we didn't look too hard.

That food at WPE looks fantastic. We must give it a try!

Hey Melissa! Yes, things are a bit busy. You should definitely give WPE a try. :thumbsup2

Hey Carissa! Looks like you guys had fun on your "off" day! I"m sorry you had a migraine, those are the worst! You are a trooper doing laundry with one! The food at WPE looks great!

The funny thing is my migraine went away during the exertion of pedaling the surrey bike! :confused3 It wasn't a real bad one, thankfully.

Carissa, bummer on the migrane glad it didn't ruin your off-day plans.

2 great reviews now of WPE...may have to try that next yr! :thumbsup2

You should! I could go for some right now.

Cool information about the Treehouses, I had not heard that about them

That particular captain was a woman and she had so much interesting info to share! I felt like I was getting a free tour.

I have never eaten at Wolfies in Disney World, we did eat at his place in Las Vegas and we're not overly impressed.

Was it an express or the regular restaurant? You should try the express in DTD. :thumbsup2

What was the price range if you remember?

I don't really remember. They have sandwiches and entrees. I don't remember it being any more expensive than Earl of Sandwich, but if it was - it was worth it. At WPE, you place your order at the counter and then they bring your food out to your table. And as you saw, the meals come with those super yummy chips. I didn't look at the prices much since we used the DP.

And Whispering Canyon is coming up too...Right?????

Yup. ;)

Sorry you woke up not feeling well! Glad it went away pretty quick though! LOVED the story about the Treehouse Villas. We saw them being torn down and I never realized why! The food pics look AWESOME! The boys expressions are too cute! Looks like a fun day!:thumbsup2

I'm glad I was able to share some Disney Trivia! :goodvibes

carissanboys

05-20-2009, 07:55 AM

Just a quick note and update...

Today is Sully's 9th birthday! We're planning on taking him out to dinner this evening and he'll get his birthday presents. On Saturday we'll be having a combined party for all three boys and their friends so Friday and Saturday will be super busy for me. Chuck's last day of work should be tomorrow so I'll have his help to get ready. Connor's 5th birthday is Saturday along with our 10 year anniversary. Sunday we'll be getting together with the in-laws. That leaves us Monday - Wednesday to get ready for the packers. They've decided they will come on Thursday to pack us up and then pick up everything on Friday. And Saturday we drive down to Virginia.

All of that to let you know I probably will do one more installment this week before our move. I will still be checking in here and there, but things are going to start to get crazier. Once we're settled in our new home the updates will start coming more regularly again. :thumbsup2

We do plan on taking advantage of the roughly three weeks we'll have with Chuck before he leaves for school. We will have no commitments so we plan on doing lots of sightseeing and getting to know our new home. :goodvibes

Sully at the airshow on Saturday (and you get a sneak peek at the new hat he got at Disney):

http://i592.photobucket.com/albums/tt4/mnkyboy24/IMG_3349.jpg

mommytothreeboys

05-20-2009, 08:18 AM

Happy Birthday Sully!

:bday: :bday: :bday:

Sounds like a very busy couple of weeks for you! Enjoy your time with Chuck...what a blessing to have some family time together! :grouphug:

Are you excited about the move and new house yet?? I moved a lot growing up and now we've lived in this house for 13 years...I am so itching for something new! Trying to convince Jeff that maybe a nice big addition on this house might be the way to go. This house is definitely too small and he is just too gun-shy about selling and purchasing a new home. I think it's exciting to unpack and set up a new house....like a fresh new start. (I know there's a lot of work too, but in the end it's so worth it!)

You are in my thoughts as you prepare for this big transition...move, homeschooling, new job for Chuck.....keep us posted as much as you can! ;)

carissanboys

05-20-2009, 08:27 AM

MeMom

05-20-2009, 08:35 AM

Happy Birthday, Sully!
party:
I hope you and your family have a great day!

Charleston Princess

05-20-2009, 09:00 AM

Happy Birthday, Sully!

MagicShell

05-20-2009, 10:38 AM

I hope your boys have a great party. Good luck with the move. I hope you all get to do a lot of fun things while you are together.

DisneyJo

05-20-2009, 12:02 PM

Happy Birthday Sully, great day to have a birthday ;) :rotfl:

My girls so want to have a go on a Surrey Bike, I hope they can help pedal as they do look exhausting :rotfl:

Your meal looks lovely and I'm so glad your migraine went. I love the POR boat ride too, very relaxing!

DisneyMomLiz

05-20-2009, 01:57 PM

Happy Birthday Sully party: and early Happy Birthday to Connor :bday: and early Happy Anniversary to you and Chuck! :jumping1: Good luck with the move!

Love the looks of the WPE meal...I'm doing Atkins right now so no bread/pizza for me, but just looking at it made me feel like I had my craving fulfilled, so thanks! :thumbsup2

Can't wait to read more updates, when you're settled of course ;), reading your TR, always makes me smile and keeps me going until our next trip!

dddisrunner

05-20-2009, 02:09 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SULLY!!!!:goodvibes Happy Anniversary too Carissa! Happy Birthday to Connor also!!:cheer2: LOTS of celebrating!!:thumbsup2 How nice that you will all be able to spend some quality family time together!! Have a wonderful weekend!!:goodvibes

scottny

05-20-2009, 02:39 PM

Ok all caught up. love the report so far. love seeing POR.

Great pics you have there.

Good luck with the move. 3 weeks later and we are just about settled in.

Be back soon to catch up again. :rotfl2:

Emma's Dad

05-20-2009, 02:41 PM

Just a quick note and update...

Today is Sully's 9th birthday! We're planning on taking him out to dinner this evening and he'll get his birthday presents. On Saturday we'll be having a combined party for all three boys and their friends so Friday and Saturday will be super busy for me. Chuck's last day of work should be tomorrow so I'll have his help to get ready. Connor's 5th birthday is Saturday along with our 10 year anniversary. Sunday we'll be getting together with the in-laws. That leaves us Monday - Wednesday to get ready for the packers. They've decided they will come on Thursday to pack us up and then pick up everything on Friday. And Saturday we drive down to Virginia.

All of that to let you know I probably will do one more installment this week before our move. I will still be checking in here and there, but things are going to start to get crazier. Once we're settled in our new home the updates will start coming more regularly again. :thumbsup2

We do plan on taking advantage of the roughly three weeks we'll have with Chuck before he leaves for school. We will have no commitments so we plan on doing lots of sightseeing and getting to know our new home. :goodvibes

Happy birthday, Sully!
Sounds like you're in for a slightly busy weekend :thumbsup2 Happy anniversary! Happy birthday, Connor! I pray everyone has a great time and you are able to get all your packing done, too.

Again, if you guys need anything when you get here, let me know!

Goofster57

05-20-2009, 04:16 PM

That particular captain was a woman and she had so much interesting info to share! I felt like I was getting a free tour.

The cast members can make or brake your "Disney Experience"

Was it an express or the regular restaurant? You should try the express in DTD. :thumbsup2

It was a regular restaurant in the Forum at Caesars

I don't really remember. They have sandwiches and entrees. I don't remember it being any more expensive than Earl of Sandwich, but if it was - it was worth it. At WPE, you place your order at the counter and then they bring your food out to your table. And as you saw, the meals come with those super yummy chips. I didn't look at the prices much since we used the DP.

All I really remember is paying $40 for three very small medallions of beef and some burnt potato triangle thingy.

Goofster57

05-20-2009, 04:17 PM

:banana:Happy Birthday Sully:banana:

Ask for a car...:woohoo:

carissanboys

05-20-2009, 06:55 PM

Happy Birthday, Sully!
party:
I hope you and your family have a great day!

Thanks! His teacher gave him two lollipops, he got an ant farm and a board game from his dad and I, and we had dinner at Red Robin where they gave him an icecream sundae while doing their hand clap birthday chant. Sully didn't seem embarrassed, but I sure was! :rotfl:

Happy Birthday, Sully!

Thanks Jackie - I've passed on all of the b-day wishes. :goodvibes

I hope your boys have a great party. Good luck with the move. I hope you all get to do a lot of fun things while you are together.

Me too!

Happy Birthday Sully, great day to have a birthday ;)

My girls so want to have a go on a Surrey Bike, I hope they can help pedal as they do look exhausting

Your meal looks lovely and I'm so glad your migraine went. I love the POR boat ride too, very relaxing!

Having the kids help pedal is a good thing. :thumbsup2

Happy Birthday Sully party: and early Happy Birthday to Connor :bday: and early Happy Anniversary to you and Chuck! :jumping1: Good luck with the move!

Love the looks of the WPE meal...I'm doing Atkins right now so no bread/pizza for me, but just looking at it made me feel like I had my craving fulfilled, so thanks! :thumbsup2

Can't wait to read more updates, when you're settled of course ;), reading your TR, always makes me smile and keeps me going until our next trip!

Thanks so much! You're all so sweet. :goodvibes

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SULLY!!!!:goodvibes Happy Anniversary too Carissa! Happy Birthday to Connor also!!:cheer2: LOTS of celebrating!!:thumbsup2 How nice that you will all be able to spend some quality family time together!! Have a wonderful weekend!!:goodvibes

Thanks so much Diane! :)

Ok all caught up. love the report so far. love seeing POR.

Great pics you have there.

Good luck with the move. 3 weeks later and we are just about settled in.

Be back soon to catch up again. :rotfl2:

Glad you're almost settled in - that'll be me very soon. ;)

Happy birthday, Sully!
Sounds like you're in for a slightly busy weekend :thumbsup2 Happy anniversary! Happy birthday, Connor! I pray everyone has a great time and you are able to get all your packing done, too.

Again, if you guys need anything when you get here, let me know!

Thanks Don! I didn't mention that Owen's birthday is the Monday after we move. :rolleyes1

:banana:Happy Birthday Sully:banana:

Ask for a car...:woohoo:

You know what's funny? At dinner Chuck said to Sully, "Only 6 more years and he'll be driving." I said, "No. He's never going to drive." Then Sully said, "Yeah - I'm going to just stick with a bike." :rolleyes1 That's my boy! He's going green. ;)