What's the Big Deal With Staying On Property Anyway? *Goodbyes* 12/17 p.114

[lazydoxy66]

Great update! I'm glad the migraine evaporated.

Happy belated b-days and anniversary!

My b-day was Monday too!

[mommytothreeboys]

Today's packing day!

Thinking of you Carissa! :goodvibes

[carissanboys]

Wow... a lot going on for your family in May! Happy Birthday Sully & Connor! Happy Anniversary!

Thanks Amy!

What a busy weekend and next few weeks! Sounds like you have it all organized, though!!! Good luck with everything! And happy birthday to everyone! And happy anniversary! Our boys and my DH have birthdays all within the first 2 weeks of June...


looking forward to more updates!

So you can understand what the past couple of weeks have been like! :rotfl:

Sorry I haven't been chattier, but not much to add here. I do have to wish everyone happy birthday and happy anniversary, tho!

No worries Irene and thanks!

Just stopping by to say :wave:

and hope all is well! :goodvibes

Hello!

Great update! I'm glad the migraine evaporated.

Happy belated b-days and anniversary!

My b-day was Monday too!

Happy Belated Birthday to you! :goodvibes

Today's packing day!

Thinking of you Carissa! :goodvibes

Hey Missy! Actually, tomorrow is packing day. Today is my scramble to get everything ready day!!! I shouldn't even be here, but I hadn't checked in for quite a while and I'm not sure how long I'll be without internet.

The next couple of days are going to be the craziest - and then if they deliver our stuff on Monday, that will be super crazy too because Chuck will be driving back up here to MD for the walkthrough of our current home, which means I'll be dealing with the unloading and inventory while having 3 boys running around! :eek:

I miss you all and promise that I will get back to doing TR updates once things settle down a bit. And I'll get caught up on everyone's TRs and PTRs. I hate that I'm so behind! :hug:

[cjackearl]

Don't worry. We'll all be here when you're able to come back.:goodvibes

Prayers for a smooth move.:thumbsup2

[lauraebeth]

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.

There was actually a type of endangered bird that took up residency in the treehouses area. They used it as Disney College program housing for a short period, after I believe the bird left, but construction wasn't allowed until they knew the bird was definitely gone and not coming back.

[liznboys]

There was actually a type of endangered bird that took up residency in the treehouses area. They used it as Disney College program housing for a short period, after I believe the bird left, but construction wasn't allowed until they knew the bird was definitely gone and not coming back.

Wow, that's one I haven't heard. Interesting. Any idea what kind of bird?

[liznboys]

Carissa...thinking good thoughts for you with all your packing & cleaning today, and the drive to your new home tomorrow! :goodvibes

[DisMomAmy]

Good Luck with the move! pixiedust:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hey Car, I'm all caught up, only one update to read, you made it easy for me! Hope the move is going smoothly this weekend and happy belated birthday to Sully!

[eandesmom]

I'm all caught up!

Happy birthday boys!

Happy Anniversary!

Thanks for the THV pics, I plan to stay there one of these days and it was a great angle that I've not seen :)

Best of luck with your move and enjoy those 3 weeks, I am sure they will fly by. Have fun getting to know your new home!

[carissanboys]

Don't worry. We'll all be here when you're able to come back.:goodvibes

Prayers for a smooth move.:thumbsup2

Thanks! :goodvibes

There was actually a type of endangered bird that took up residency in the treehouses area. They used it as Disney College program housing for a short period, after I believe the bird left, but construction wasn't allowed until they knew the bird was definitely gone and not coming back.

Interesting!

Carissa...thinking good thoughts for you with all your packing & cleaning today, and the drive to your new home tomorrow! :goodvibes

Thanks Liz!

Good Luck with the move! pixiedust:

Thanks Amy!

Hey Car, I'm all caught up, only one update to read, you made it easy for me! Hope the move is going smoothly this weekend and happy belated birthday to Sully!

Welcome back Lessa! Can't wait to read about your trip!

I'm all caught up!

Happy birthday boys!

Happy Anniversary!

Thanks for the THV pics, I plan to stay there one of these days and it was a great angle that I've not seen :)

Best of luck with your move and enjoy those 3 weeks, I am sure they will fly by. Have fun getting to know your new home!

Thanks!


We are in our new home! Our stuff won't get here until probably Tuesday, but we have folding chairs, air mattresses, our TV/PS3, and some dishes. Yesterday we had dinner at Applebee's, went to Target for some stuff, and looked at desks at Office Depot - all extremely close to our house.

Today we're thinking of stopping at the beach for a few minutes, then finding the commissary, and picking up a desk.

I might try and get an update done tomorrow since Chuck will be heading back up to MD for the walkthrough.

[Charleston Princess]

Glad to hear you are there in your new home!!! :goodvibes

[MeMom]

Welcome back Lessa! Can't wait to read about your trip!

We are in our new home! Our stuff won't get here until probably Tuesday, but we have folding chairs, air mattresses, our TV/PS3, and some dishes. Yesterday we had dinner at Applebee's, went to Target for some stuff, and looked at desks at Office Depot - all extremely close to our house.

Today we're thinking of stopping at the beach for a few minutes, then finding the commissary, and picking up a desk.



In the house camping sounds like fun!

Too bad all of us can't be there to help you haul all the furniture in and help you get set up.

Have fun at the beach!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hey Car! I know you are busy with your move so I thought I would post my new TR link here so you can find me easily once things calm down for you.




The Sea Witch Stole My Voice! Our Two Week Land and Sea Adventure (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2191459)

[wvdislover]

We are in our new home! Our stuff won't get here until probably Tuesday, but we have folding chairs, air mattresses, our TV/PS3, and some dishes. Yesterday we had dinner at Applebee's, went to Target for some stuff, and looked at desks at Office Depot - all extremely close to our house.

Today we're thinking of stopping at the beach for a few minutes, then finding the commissary, and picking up a desk.

I might try and get an update done tomorrow since Chuck will be heading back up to MD for the walkthrough.

Yay! You're in your new house! How exciting! I bet the boys are enjoying "camping out" in the house...I know my girls would think it was fun, too. Good luck getting set up!

[mommytothreeboys]

Hi Carissa!

Glad you are in the new house....even if you are "camping out"!

I know how crazy things are for you, but just wanted to let you know you are missed! Come back soon! ;)

[jmskinner]

Hi Carissa and happy birthday Owen!:bday:

Fantastic that you are getting your stuff tomorrow. Door to Door moves are great. In Texas we had to do the camping in the apartment for two months while our house was being completed. It's fun for a few days, but after that.....

[DisMomAmy]

Glad to hear you are getting settled into your new home. I hope your stuff arrives safe & sound tomorrow. :goodvibes

[Girldreamer02]

just found this...i'll be back to read when I have a little more time! :thumbsup2

[eandesmom]

We are in our new home! Our stuff won't get here until probably Tuesday, but we have folding chairs, air mattresses, our TV/PS3, and some dishes. Yesterday we had dinner at Applebee's, went to Target for some stuff, and looked at desks at Office Depot - all extremely close to our house.

Today we're thinking of stopping at the beach for a few minutes, then finding the commissary, and picking up a desk.

I might try and get an update done tomorrow since Chuck will be heading back up to MD for the walkthrough.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

You've arrived! how wonderful!! looking forward to your updates.

[lazydoxy66]

YAY! I hope all is well and you are getting everything set up now!

[Girldreamer02]

I'm up to number 12...I'll have to finish reading sometime this week because its getting late. Loving your trippie so far. We live about two hours from richmond...I saw that you passed through there. We flew out of richmond in Jan when we went to disney! :thumbsup2 Are you following me? Haha...I see your moving to Va and I know for a short time I was going to be moving near you...so maybe we're following each other? :rolleyes1 Loving all the pics and yay for staying on property especially with a discount...even better! :thumbsup2 Just wanted to say hello...haven't chatted with you in quite some time and let ya know I'm loving the trippie...I have mine going on as well so feel free to check it out if you get a spare moment! We stayed at AKL and then did a cruise on the magic as well! :goodvibes

[carissanboys]

Glad to hear you are there in your new home!!! :goodvibes

Thanks Jackie! We're loving getting to know the area. Everything is so close by!!!

In the house camping sounds like fun!

Too bad all of us can't be there to help you haul all the furniture in and help you get set up.

Have fun at the beach!

House camping is fun for a few days - after that - not so much. ;-)

Hey Car! I know you are busy with your move so I thought I would post my new TR link here so you can find me easily once things calm down for you.




The Sea Witch Stole My Voice! Our Two Week Land and Sea Adventure (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2191459)

Thanks Lessa! :thumbsup2

Yay! You're in your new house! How exciting! I bet the boys are enjoying "camping out" in the house...I know my girls would think it was fun, too. Good luck getting set up!

Thanks!

Hi Carissa!

Glad you are in the new house....even if you are "camping out"!

I know how crazy things are for you, but just wanted to let you know you are missed! Come back soon! ;)

Thanks Missy. Seeing as I don't have a real chair to sit in, I can't stand being on the puter for very long! But, I hope to get caught up this weekend. :goodvibes

Hi Carissa and happy birthday Owen!:bday:

Fantastic that you are getting your stuff tomorrow. Door to Door moves are great. In Texas we had to do the camping in the apartment for two months while our house was being completed. It's fun for a few days, but after that.....

I agree! :rotfl:

Glad to hear you are getting settled into your new home. I hope your stuff arrives safe & sound tomorrow. :goodvibes

Thanks Amy. Didn't arrive, but I'll update that in just a sec.

just found this...i'll be back to read when I have a little more time! :thumbsup2

Hey! Glad to see you here! :goodvibes

You've arrived! how wonderful!! looking forward to your updates.

Thanks - hopefully this weekend I will get an update posted.

YAY! I hope all is well and you are getting everything set up now!

Not yet, but soon!

I'm up to number 12...I'll have to finish reading sometime this week because its getting late. Loving your trippie so far. We live about two hours from richmond...I saw that you passed through there. We flew out of richmond in Jan when we went to disney! :thumbsup2 Are you following me? Haha...I see your moving to Va and I know for a short time I was going to be moving near you...so maybe we're following each other? :rolleyes1 Loving all the pics and yay for staying on property especially with a discount...even better! :thumbsup2 Just wanted to say hello...haven't chatted with you in quite some time and let ya know I'm loving the trippie...I have mine going on as well so feel free to check it out if you get a spare moment! We stayed at AKL and then did a cruise on the magic as well! :goodvibes

It's good to hear from you again. How is everything going in VA? I'll get over to your TR soon. :goodvibes


Okay! Just got a call from the movers and they'll be here later this morning with our stuff!! :cool1: :cool1: It's a real bed for me tonight!! :woohoo:

I'm trying to get Sully into the doctor's today. He got bit by a small tick a few weeks ago. He started having a fever about a week after and I took him in. They didn't think it was lyme disease, but they did a blood test to be sure. We didn't hear anything back so I assumed it was negative. But, I've heard you can get a false negative the first time.

This week he's had headaches and low grade fevers and has felt tired. I noticed this weird circle on his leg two days ago and he said it had been there a few days but it had been all red before. It's not at the bite site, but I believe that can happen. So, now I'm really worried it's lyme disease. :(

Hope you all are well and things should be getting back to normal around here by the end of the week.

[Charleston Princess]

I hope Sully feels better soon!!! :hug:

[dddisrunner]

Hi Carissa! I have been thinking about you and your family. I am happy to hear that you are getting settled into your new home and getting acclimated to your new community!:goodvibes Sorry to hear about Sully! I hope it's just a plain old virus and not lymes!:sick: I will say a prayer for him!:goodvibes

[mommytothreeboys]

3 cheers for a real bed!! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

I'll keep Sully in my prayers...looking forward to hearing a good report. :thumbsup2

[blue_river]

So glad you're settled in your new place :hug:

Luckily I haven't missed too much over here :banana:

Seeing as we were up late the night before, we all slept in until about 7:30 the next morning.

:lmao: You call that sleeping in?


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.

Sorry about the migraine...hope it didn't last long :guilty:


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.

Family fun stuff :thumbsup2
We rented one also...not sure I've got to that part yet :rolleyes1


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.

I didn't know that - thanks for sharing!


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.

Aww..that's too bad.


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

Yahooty :goodvibes


I hope your bed comes today!

[blue_river]

This week he's had headaches and low grade fevers and has felt tired. I noticed this weird circle on his leg two days ago and he said it had been there a few days but it had been all red before. It's not at the bite site, but I believe that can happen. So, now I'm really worried it's lyme disease. :(


I hope it's just an insect bite. Hugs. I can imagine how worried you must be. :hug:

[mousescrapper]

Hi Carissa...

1st glad to hear you are getting settled in your new home and the furniture is arriving! Can't wait to hear more about the house and all your painting!

Take your time getting back to the TR...we'll be here popcorn::

2nd, sorry to hear about Sully, :sick: that doesn't sound good at all! I'd be nervous too....I really hope it is something else weird and nothing serious.

Keep you in my thoughts!

J- :goodvibes

[cjackearl]

Yahooey for a real bed tonight! It'll be nice for your house to feel more like your home with all of your furniture and stuff.

I hope you can get Sully into the doctor quickly and that it ends up being something other than lyme's. :hug:

[MagicShell]

I am sorry to hear about your son being sick. I hope it is nothing serious. I would be worried also. I hope you get your house set up soon. I know it is no fun to live out of boxes.

[wvdislover]

Have fun setting up! Poor Sully :sad2: I hope he's ok!

[GGOOFY1]

Hope Sully is feeling better.

[ckdsnynt]

Before the title of my trip report starts a huge debate, let me explain.

This was our third trip to Disney World in three years. On our first trip, we stayed at Shades of Green. While technically ON property, it is not a Disney resort and didn't really have the Disney feeling (at least to me). Basically, there were no towel animals. :sad1: But, the rooms were large and you couldn't beat the price. :thumbsup2

Our second trip took us completely off property to Windsor Hills. We LOVED staying there! So much space to move around, a splash pool all our own, and a quick and easy drive to the parks. :cool1: (Here's the link to my first PTR/TR - "Our 2nd Trip to Disney! Did It Measure Up?" (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1651833))

So - I asked myself - what was the big deal about staying on Disney property??? :confused3

This last trip was spur of the moment thanks to some great deals offered to military families by Disney. We were able to purchase our tickets at a great price and they gave us 40% off our room. That pretty much settled it for me - it was time to try staying on property and find out what all of the hoopla was about for ourselves! :idea:

The cast:

I'm going to keep the introductions simple. Most of you already know us, but if you don't and would like to find out more, feel free to read my PTR (do not be thrown by the word "camping" in the title :rolleyes1 ).

Me - Carissa - turned 35 on the trip

DH - Chuck - already 35 (he he he) and getting ready to do his first tour on board a ship

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_2805.jpg

Sullivan - 8 - my thrill rider

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_2856.jpg

Owen - 6 - the one I can always count on to pose with characters

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_2836.jpg

Connor - 4 - my shy one

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_2835.jpg

Stitch - our visitor for this trip (you can find out more about why he's with us in my PTR)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_4389.jpg

The details:

We left Maryland on Friday, March 27th and returned home on Sunday, April 5th. Our plan was to stay at Port Orleans Riverside for seven nights. We were getting the five day basic park tickets and also taking advantage of the free entry to Sea World.

Now that all of that business is out of the way, we can get on to the trip! But, I'm afraid that will have to wait a bit longer. We just got home yesterday and I have lots to do to get caught up on life. I'm sure y'all understand. :rolleyes1

By the way, for those who may be new (please say "hi" as I love to hear from everyone!), my husband just received orders on board his first ship. He'll be leaving us at the end of next month for four months of school in Florida. The boys and I will most likely be moving to the Virginia Beach area sometime in June. And then Chuck will begin his tour on an aircraft carrier in September. I am sure this TR (if I can drag it out long enough :rotfl: ) will have mini-TRs about all of that. If you care to skip over non-Disney stuff, I always have links to installments right here on the main page.

Now, let's get this trip report started...

*Links*

1) Day 1 - Part 1 - Let the Driving Begin! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31216065&postcount=51)
2) Moving Update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31222268&postcount=80)
3) Part 2 - Are We a Magnet for Tornadoes or What??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31234247&postcount=106)
4) Part 3 - What Did Pedro Call Me??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31251284&postcount=168)
5) Day 2 - Part 1 - It Cost $1.00 to Pee?? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31270258&postcount=237)
6) So Long, Stitch! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31288155&postcount=312)
7) Part 2 - "I Swear I Wasn't Running Off Without Paying!" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31311034&postcount=342)
8) Part 3 - Renovations Anyone? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31328985&postcount=387)
9) Day 3 - Part 1 - Did Toy Story Mania Live Up to the Hype? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31357071&postcount=434)
10) Part 2 - Rock 'n' Roller Coaster - Was I Brave Enought to Ride It? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31381562&postcount=483)
11) A Moving Update and Mini TR (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31411576&postcount=529)
12) Part 3 - Look Out!! It's the Amazing Collosal Man!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31447452&postcount=557)
13) Part 4 - Goodness Gracious Great Balls of Fire! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31487316&postcount=606)
14) Part 5 - Our First Towel...Creation? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31514584&postcount=650)
15) Day 4 - Part 1 - A Stitch Kind of Day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31557384&postcount=680)
16) Part 2 - Will We Lose Stitch Forever?? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31609960&postcount=711)
17) Part 3 - Haunted Mansion or Space Mountain - Which is Scarier? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31656025&postcount=768)
18) Part 4 - A Birthday Surprise (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31693357&postcount=808)
19) Part 5 - My Birthday Dinner at Kona (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31707535&postcount=842)
20) Moving Update - Getting Close! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31732667&postcount=871)
21) Part 6 - The Boys Make Friends with the Help of Glow Sticks (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31765795&postcount=903)
22) Day 5 - Part 1 - A Migraine, Laundry, and a Surrey Ride - Oh My! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31873401&postcount=948)
Carissa: i know I started reading your TR but i went on my own trip and lost track of where I was so I am starting over! I knew I felt a connection with you! you are one year younger than my son! Love those 70"s! I married and had two kids:thumbsup2

[winkers]

I'm all caught up!

We went for a surrey ride at the beach several years ago, it was the best leg work out ever! I couldn't walk for several days after. I guess the fact that it was on sand and there were 6 of us with only 3 peddling helped a little.

[Girldreamer02]

I'm all caught up on your trippie and loving it! We are big fans of Earl of Sandwich too! Its delicious! We never stayed at POR, but it looks like you guys enjoyed it quite a bit. There is a little bit more to do there than at other resorts it seems too, which is nice and convenient if you aren't going to the parks for a day. Sorry you had a migraine...I can relate...they are the worst! Glad that you had a good birthday! Can't wait to hear more!

[carissanboys]

I hope Sully feels better soon!!!

Thanks Jackie - he is! :goodvibes

Hi Carissa! I have been thinking about you and your family. I am happy to hear that you are getting settled into your new home and getting acclimated to your new community! Sorry to hear about Sully! I hope it's just a plain old virus and not lymes!:sick: I will say a prayer for him!:goodvibes

Thanks Diane. An update on Sully to follow. :thumbsup2

3 cheers for a real bed!! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

I'll keep Sully in my prayers...looking forward to hearing a good report. :thumbsup2

Thanks Missy. I feel so out of the loop here! So much to get caught up on.

So glad you're settled in your new place :hug:

Luckily I haven't missed too much over here :banana:

No, you haven't! :thumbsup2


Hi Carissa...

1st glad to hear you are getting settled in your new home and the furniture is arriving! Can't wait to hear more about the house and all your painting!

Take your time getting back to the TR...we'll be here popcorn::

2nd, sorry to hear about Sully, :sick: that doesn't sound good at all! I'd be nervous too....I really hope it is something else weird and nothing serious.

Keep you in my thoughts!

J- :goodvibes

Thanks Julie! We ended up deciding not to do any painting. We don't want to put the time and money into a place that we don't own. We are hoping to be able to buy a house in the next couple of years so we'll save all of our energy for that! ;)

Yahooey for a real bed tonight! It'll be nice for your house to feel more like your home with all of your furniture and stuff.

I hope you can get Sully into the doctor quickly and that it ends up being something other than lyme's. :hug:

It's been great sleeping on a real bed! And definitely feeling more like home now that everything is here.

I am sorry to hear about your son being sick. I hope it is nothing serious. I would be worried also. I hope you get your house set up soon. I know it is no fun to live out of boxes.

Thanks! Update on Sully to follow.

Have fun setting up! Poor Sully :sad2: I hope he's ok!

Don't know if I'd call it "fun", but it's a good workout! :rotfl:

Hope Sully is feeling better.

Thanks! :goodvibes

Carissa: i know I started reading your TR but i went on my own trip and lost track of where I was so I am starting over! I knew I felt a connection with you! you are one year younger than my son! Love those 70"s! I married and had two kids:thumbsup2

How was your trip? Glad to have you back! :goodvibes

I'm all caught up!

We went for a surrey ride at the beach several years ago, it was the best leg work out ever! I couldn't walk for several days after. I guess the fact that it was on sand and there were 6 of us with only 3 peddling helped a little.

:eek: Yeah, peddling on sand would not be an easy task!

I'm all caught up on your trippie and loving it! We are big fans of Earl of Sandwich too! Its delicious! We never stayed at POR, but it looks like you guys enjoyed it quite a bit. There is a little bit more to do there than at other resorts it seems too, which is nice and convenient if you aren't going to the parks for a day. Sorry you had a migraine...I can relate...they are the worst! Glad that you had a good birthday! Can't wait to hear more!

Thanks for getting caught up! Hopefully an installment to follow this morning. :thumbsup2

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

The doctor felt there were enough symptoms (espcially the rash) to warrant treating Sully for Lyme Disease. He got two doses of Amoxicillin (much stronger dose than normal) on Wednesday and by Thursday morning his fever and headache were pretty much gone. He's been feeling great ever since! :woohoo: Hopefully the early treatment means no future issues.

The house is looking good. We still have some boxes to deal with, but most everything is unpacked and in its place. We're going to take a break today and head to the aquarium.

Hoping to post an installment shortly. :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

(I'm doing this update without my notes. Once I find my notebook, I may need to come back and edit. Hopefully the pictures will trigger my memory enough. :rolleyes1 )

After our trip to Downtown Disney, we got back to our room and relaxed for a little bit before it was time to drive over to the Wilderness Lodge for our dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe. Our first Disney meal ever on our very first trip was at WCC. :goodvibes

When we arrived at the lodge, I had a mission. I had seen other TRs with pictures taken in a certain spot and I was determined to find it and get our own shot.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3003.jpg

We did a little looking around inside.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3004.jpg

Owen did some pin trading at one of the kiosks, and I thought I'd taken some pictures, but can't find them now. :confused3

Then it was time to check in for our ADR. The boys got to play for just a couple of minutes before we were seated.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3005.jpg

We had a great server. I found out that once you make a note in your reservation for your trip that it's someone's birthday, every reservation you have at a restaurant shows that it's your birthday. When our server asked about it, I told him my birthday had been the day before.

Chuck, Sully, and I all ordered the skillet. Chuck ordered one of their shakes too (which comes with the Dining Plan), but I knew it would be too much with the food. I don't remember what Owen and Connor had.

Here are before and after photos of the skillet:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3006.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3010.jpg

Sully's skillet:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3007.jpg

The boys enjoying their food:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3008.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3009.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3011.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3012.jpg

And dessert time! This was sooooo good!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3013.jpg

Around this time, a CM asked if anyone was celebrating any birthdays or anniversarys. Our server was "kind" enough to holler out, "Carissa is celebrating a birthday!!" :headache: Thankfully, they had everyone stand up to do the hokey pokey with those of us celebrating. Then, they brought out the "horses" to ride. I convinced Owen to do it, but he started feeling sick. :sick: He sat out the race.

Owen really started to look like he was going to be sick, so I had Chuck take him to the restroom. We settled our bill and all headed to the bathrooms. I saw this light fixture and thought of MeMom and took a picture:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3014.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3015.jpg

Owen and Chuck came out of the bathroom and there had been no vomiting - woohoo! He still wasn't feeling well so we headed outside. We stopped at the benches and took some photos while just enjoying the moment.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3016.jpg

Here's Owen - too much hokey pokey?? (We figure he just had too much liquid with his meal and felt really full.)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3017.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3018.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3019.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3021.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3022.jpg

We reluctantly headed to the van and left the Lodge. But, we were looking forward to a special treat!

Up Next - Take a Walk With Me (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32221061&postcount=1069)

[jmskinner]

WCC, my favorite!!! Poor Owen, hope he was feeling better quickly. Did you order ketchup?

[DisneyJo]

Love the photos of your boys tucking into their food :rotfl: Thank goodness he was just too full and not ill!

[jcc0621]

We have yet to try WCC. The food looks really good. Hope Owen started to feel better!:goodvibes

[cjackearl]

The skillet looks pretty good. Poor Owen. Yucky tummies and vacation don't mix well.

Glad you're feeling more settled.:)

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Awww poor Owen, I hate that I'm so full I feel like I am going to be sick feeling.

[KathyRN137]

First off... I'm glad Sully is feeling better. In our office, we always treat for Lyme if the patient has symptoms no matter what the official blood tests are. I think you did the right thing. ::yes:: Can you believe that some parents refuse the antibiotics?? Crazy!! The antibiotics can't hurt you (unless you're allergic), but untreated Lyme sure can!!) :sad2:

Second... I know exactly how you feel about losing your notes in the move!! Frustrating, isn't it?? :rolleyes: Anyway, glad to hear everyone is settling in nicely.

And last... I love the pictures at WL... did the boy's rub Humphrey's nose for luck?? (He's the bear in the totem pole.) Poor Owen... too much jumping around right after eating will do it to you!!

Looking forward to your soggy treat!


Kathy

[Girldreamer02]

Aww poor owen...being on the dinning plan will do that to ya...I know there have been a few times I've felt very yucky after to much food. That skillet looks so yummy! We've never ate there, but might try it sometime on a future trip! Hope your getting settled in your new home! :thumbsup2

[winkers]

The next time I'm somewhere and someone decides it would be "fun" to do the hokey pokey...........I'll tell them I've heard it can make you sick!

I've wanted to try that restraunt, it looks really good........now I need some ribs!

[pamouselover]

Hi, Checking in and glad I was not far behind this time! :rotfl:
Hope Va is having a nice weather today!Rained here for three days!
Today was great!

[mommytothreeboys]

Hi Carissa...fist things first....WELCOME BACK!! I'm so glad you are feeling more settled in. You've been missed!

I LOVE the pictures of the boys at WL. I love that you take pics of JUST them with no other agenda. Most of my vacation photos feature the boys, but along with something else. Note to self...take more close-up just-boy shots!

The one of Owen with the chicken leg doing the "pirate" face is my fave! :thumbsup2

Sorry Owen was feeling ICK...that's never fun.

Glad to hear that Sully is feeling better. I would agree with Kathy...treat TOO aggressively as to NOT aggressively enough. Untreated Lyme's disease is no joke.

Can't wait to hear more about your trip! popcorn::

[DisMomAmy]

Hi Carissa - I'm glad you are finding time to get back to your TR! I hope Sully continues to make a quick recovery from whatever has been making him sick. :goodvibes

I love your WCC update. I know what you mean about trying to find places that you see in other people's TRs... I didn't know what to expect when we went to the Wilderness Lodge, but now that we've been I want to go back and look at all the stuff we missed.

[Lady Lallie]

Glad to hear that Sully is feeling better!

WCC looks so yummy, it is on my list of future ADRs!

[shannon47142]

Your meal at WCC looked great!! Love the picture with the totem pole!! We were blessed to stay WL last August and after check-in, that was the first picture I took with the family as well!!:cool1:

[pixidustmom]

Glad your getting settled in. Wow really glad you got Sully taken care of that is scary. I am so happy you have started your TR again.:banana:

[wvdislover]

Glad to know that Sully is feeling better...that must have been scary. So sorry that Owen felt bad after dinner. Allison, my DD7, does that all the time, and we usually leave restaurants with her feeling "sick." Sometimes, it even happens at home (she'll eat too much, too fast, and realize it too late :rolleyes:) She's always had what we call a "delicate system," so we have to be really careful with her :sad2:

[mousescrapper]

Hi...

glad Sully is on the mend :goodvibes

WCC looks great...we have yet to eat there, before leaving WDW in '95 we visited the WL and looked around in the lobby, but I don't recall eating there...it sure sound like a fun place and wow alot of food.

sorry Owen got a little :sick:

and hey how many times does one get to celebrate their b-day at WDW...live it up I say! :cool1:

[mrsksomeday]

I am really enjoying your TR, the pics are great and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I can't wait to go back to WCC!!

[dddisrunner]

GREAT news about Sully Carissa!:thumbsup2 I hope he continues to feel well!!

I LOVED all your Wilderness Lodge photos! Your boys are adorable! I am glad you like WCC, we have never been. Maybe someday if we stay at the WL villas!:thumbsup2 Looking forward to more!:goodvibes

[lazydoxy66]

I'm glad Sully is on the mend!

Wilderness Lodge looks so cool. That dinner looked huge! I'm not surprised that someone was super full.

[M & K + 6]

Thanks for the update- love the TR- its very addictive. So glad Sully is on the mend.:goodvibes. Im following your blog as well- can't wait until you are all settled in.:)

[carissanboys]

WCC, my favorite!!! Poor Owen, hope he was feeling better quickly. Did you order ketchup?

Nope. We didn't have anything we needed kethchup with. ;) But, we got to be amused by others who asked for it.

Love the photos of your boys tucking into their food :rotfl: Thank goodness he was just too full and not ill!

I love those pictures too!

We have yet to try WCC. The food looks really good. Hope Owen started to feel better!:goodvibes

He did. :goodvibes

The skillet looks pretty good. Poor Owen. Yucky tummies and vacation don't mix well.

Glad you're feeling more settled.:)

Thanks! We still have more things to put up on the walls and some major organizing of our office to do, but we're getting there.

Awww poor Owen, I hate that I'm so full I feel like I am going to be sick feeling.

He probably didn't even eat that much food. He just fills up on liquids. :sad2:

First off... I'm glad Sully is feeling better. In our office, we always treat for Lyme if the patient has symptoms no matter what the official blood tests are. I think you did the right thing. ::yes:: Can you believe that some parents refuse the antibiotics?? Crazy!! The antibiotics can't hurt you (unless you're allergic), but untreated Lyme sure can!!) :sad2:

Second... I know exactly how you feel about losing your notes in the move!! Frustrating, isn't it?? :rolleyes: Anyway, glad to hear everyone is settling in nicely.

And last... I love the pictures at WL... did the boy's rub Humphrey's nose for luck?? (He's the bear in the totem pole.) Poor Owen... too much jumping around right after eating will do it to you!!

Looking forward to your soggy treat!


Kathy

Thanks Kathy! The first time I took him to the doctor a little more than a week after he got sick, they kind of made me feel like I was being silly for bringing him in. And I guess without a rash there wasn't much to go on besides typical virus symptoms. But, moms know their kids and I knew something wasn't right!

No, we didn't know about Humphrey's nose until after we got back.

Aww poor owen...being on the dinning plan will do that to ya...I know there have been a few times I've felt very yucky after to much food. That skillet looks so yummy! We've never ate there, but might try it sometime on a future trip! Hope your getting settled in your new home! :thumbsup2

I'm surprised at how many people have never eaten there! If you like ribs, they make some good ones. :thumbsup2

The next time I'm somewhere and someone decides it would be "fun" to do the hokey pokey...........I'll tell them I've heard it can make you sick!

I've wanted to try that restraunt, it looks really good........now I need some ribs!

That crazy hokey pokey. :banana:

Hi, Checking in and glad I was not far behind this time! :rotfl:
Hope Va is having a nice weather today!Rained here for three days!
Today was great!

Hey Melody! We've had some crazy weather! Hot and sticky one day, then chilly the next. I didn't even turn the A/C on all day yesterday (which is good seeing as we now have to pay for electricity). We've had some rain too.

[carissanboys]

Hi Carissa...fist things first....WELCOME BACK!! I'm so glad you are feeling more settled in. You've been missed!

I LOVE the pictures of the boys at WL. I love that you take pics of JUST them with no other agenda. Most of my vacation photos feature the boys, but along with something else. Note to self...take more close-up just-boy shots!

The one of Owen with the chicken leg doing the "pirate" face is my fave! :thumbsup2

Sorry Owen was feeling ICK...that's never fun.

Glad to hear that Sully is feeling better. I would agree with Kathy...treat TOO aggressively as to NOT aggressively enough. Untreated Lyme's disease is no joke.

Can't wait to hear more about your trip! popcorn::

Thanks Missy! I love close ups of the boys. I love the one of Sully sitting by himself outside of the WL. :goodvibes

Hi Carissa - I'm glad you are finding time to get back to your TR! I hope Sully continues to make a quick recovery from whatever has been making him sick. :goodvibes

I love your WCC update. I know what you mean about trying to find places that you see in other people's TRs... I didn't know what to expect when we went to the Wilderness Lodge, but now that we've been I want to go back and look at all the stuff we missed.

Thanks Amy! I'm glad I was able to post a new update too. :goodvibes

Glad to hear that Sully is feeling better!

WCC looks so yummy, it is on my list of future ADRs!

I love their ribs and that dessert was so good! I'd like to try some other things on their menu, but so far I've had the skillet twice.

Your meal at WCC looked great!! Love the picture with the totem pole!! We were blessed to stay WL last August and after check-in, that was the first picture I took with the family as well!!:cool1:

It makes for a very cute photo. :goodvibes

Glad your getting settled in. Wow really glad you got Sully taken care of that is scary. I am so happy you have started your TR again.:banana:

Thanks! Me too!

Glad to know that Sully is feeling better...that must have been scary. So sorry that Owen felt bad after dinner. Allison, my DD7, does that all the time, and we usually leave restaurants with her feeling "sick." Sometimes, it even happens at home (she'll eat too much, too fast, and realize it too late :rolleyes:) She's always had what we call a "delicate system," so we have to be really careful with her :sad2:

That must be hard to balance sometimes. :hug:

Hi...

glad Sully is on the mend :goodvibes

WCC looks great...we have yet to eat there, before leaving WDW in '95 we visited the WL and looked around in the lobby, but I don't recall eating there...it sure sound like a fun place and wow alot of food.

sorry Owen got a little :sick:

and hey how many times does one get to celebrate their b-day at WDW...live it up I say! :cool1:

I know. I just felt weird about it seeing as it wasn't my actual birthday that day. But, there were two more occassions where I didn't let that little fact bother me. :rolleyes1

I am really enjoying your TR, the pics are great and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I can't wait to go back to WCC!!

Thanks Tracy! Do I see a new PTR in your siggy? I'll have to check it out.

GREAT news about Sully Carissa!:thumbsup2 I hope he continues to feel well!!

I LOVED all your Wilderness Lodge photos! Your boys are adorable! I am glad you like WCC, we have never been. Maybe someday if we stay at the WL villas!:thumbsup2 Looking forward to more!:goodvibes

Thanks Diane. :flower3:

I'm glad Sully is on the mend!

Wilderness Lodge looks so cool. That dinner looked huge! I'm not surprised that someone was super full.

I felt pretty full myself. :scared: I love the look of WL. :thumbsup2

Thanks for the update- love the TR- its very addictive. So glad Sully is on the mend.:goodvibes. Im following your blog as well- can't wait until you are all settled in.:)

Thanks! Hopefully I'll begin updating my blog again soon once things settle down even more (and Chuck heads down to FL for 4 months).

[MeMom]

It's good to know you've got three happy, healthy boys to drive you nuts again! :dance3:

We've got an ADR for Whispering Canyon on August 1st. The guys are very much looking forward to this, as it was one of their favorite meals ever, according to them.

Of course, they seem to be relatively happy at every meal we eat! :laughing:

[irene_dsc]

Catching up - glad to hear Sully's Lyme got treated, if that's what it was! Welcome to your new home - and yay for mostly unpacked!

[MagicShell]

I am glad that Sully is feeling better. The first Disney restaurant I ever ate it was WCC for breakfast. At the time I didn't know what sorts of things go on there. I just remember the waiter being so funny.

[Goofster57]

When we arrived at the lodge, I had a mission. I had seen other TRs with pictures taken in a certain spot and I was determined to find it and get our own shot.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3003.jpg

Probably one of the most photographed spot in the resorts.


Owen did some pin trading at one of the kiosks, and I thought I'd taken some pictures, but can't find them now. :confused3


:sad2::confused3:sad2:


http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3005.jpg


So by the look on the ladies face behind the boys I would say that she has been waiting a while, I wonder if she knew about ADR's



http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3006.jpg

WC is one of my favorite places to eat, it's great place to go for breakfast too.

This is another place that the Cast Member can make or break your experience.


Thankfully, they had everyone stand up to do the hokey pokey with those of us celebrating.


What no pictures of you Hokey Pokeying..:confused3

Another great update Carissa

Now I have to get over to Kathy's TR's or she is going to get the whip out and beat my backside...:woohoo:....I mean..:scared1:

[carissanboys]

It's good to know you've got three happy, healthy boys to drive you nuts again! :dance3:

We've got an ADR for Whispering Canyon on August 1st. The guys are very much looking forward to this, as it was one of their favorite meals ever, according to them.

Of course, they seem to be relatively happy at every meal we eat! :laughing:

:rotfl: WCC does seem to be a favorite among the men!

Catching up - glad to hear Sully's Lyme got treated, if that's what it was! Welcome to your new home - and yay for mostly unpacked!

It's nice to be settling in! I really like this place. It has its flaws, but most places you rent will have those.

I am glad that Sully is feeling better. The first Disney restaurant I ever ate it was WCC for breakfast. At the time I didn't know what sorts of things go on there. I just remember the waiter being so funny.

I keep forgetting they do breakfast! I'll have to put that on my "to remember list". :thumbsup2

So by the look on the ladies face behind the boys I would say that she has been waiting a while, I wonder if she knew about ADR's

Yeah - I'm sure you were looking at her face. :rolleyes1

Now I have to get over to Kathy's TR's or she is going to get the whip out and beat my backside...:woohoo:....I mean..:scared1:

I need to get caught up on hers too!

[momrek06]

Carissa, great update!!! The pics are fabulous. I love the before and after pic of the dinner at WCC!! :thumbsup2 That was cool to do that.....I never remember to ever take food pictures. :mad: I absolutely love dining at WCC!! You always have some real family fun at that restaurant!!! :yay:

So glad to hear Sully is much better!!! :goodvibes That had to have been scary for you and Chuck. :sad1: I felt so bad for Owen, reading your trippie. It is tough when your kiddos aren't feeling well and especially tough when you are on vacation. :sad1:

[liznboys]

The skillet looks delicious!

Oh, that's good you didn't have to do the hokey pokey on your own..eek!

Poor Owen, he looks miserable on the bench! :(

We love the WL too. :)

[carissanboys]

Carissa, great update!!! The pics are fabulous. I love the before and after pic of the dinner at WCC!! :thumbsup2 That was cool to do that.....I never remember to ever take food pictures. :mad: I absolutely love dining at WCC!! You always have some real family fun at that restaurant!!! :yay:

So glad to hear Sully is much better!!! :goodvibes That had to have been scary for you and Chuck. :sad1: I felt so bad for Owen, reading your trippie. It is tough when your kiddos aren't feeling well and especially tough when you are on vacation. :sad1:

Thanks Karen - there have been many times were I forgot the before picture and just got the after so I thought both might be good. :rotfl:

The skillet looks delicious!

Oh, that's good you didn't have to do the hokey pokey on your own..eek!

Poor Owen, he looks miserable on the bench! :(

We love the WL too. :)

He was pretty miserable, but thankfully it didn't last long. :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

I found my notes! :cool1: The only thing I forgot was that before heading to WL, we took a short dip in the pool. I believe that was the only other time we actually made it over there. All three boys ended up trying out the slide. I had a hard time grabbing hold of Connor immediately so he went under the water and wasn't too thrilled. We should have put a lifevest on him. He was willing to try it again with one on, but we never got around to it.

So, once we returned from our dinner at WCC, everyone rested in the room for a little bit before our reservation for the carriage ride. I decided to take my nice camera and head outside for pictures.

**WARNING**

I took a lot.

It was a beautiful night and I enjoyed the time alone.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4583.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4584.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4585.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4589-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4591.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4592.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4593.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4594.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4596.jpg

I had to take pictures of the wheel from all different angles. :thumbsup2

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4607.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4608.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4609.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4586.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4588.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4586.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4600.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4597.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4598.jpg

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http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4602.jpg

A bad picture of the carriage and horse we'd soon be on:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4603.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4604.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4606.jpg

(to be continued in next post) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32221213&postcount=1070)

[carissanboys]

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4601.jpg

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http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4627.jpg

There's still lots more, but they'll have to wait. :rolleyes1

Up Next - More Walk Pictures and A Ride in the Rain (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32242191&postcount=1092)

[Kirby]

Enjoying your trip report! Your pictures are great and so are the links to each update. Your TR is a pleasure to read!

[jmskinner]

Great pics Carissa. I'll have to sneak away for a little while to take pics on our next trip. Did I tell you we switched from SoG to POR. POR is actually going to be cheaper. It will be nice to be home.:goodvibes This just made my wait a bit worse.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Great pictures Car!

[mommytothreeboys]

Ahhhh...POR.....**sigh**

Your pictures are beautiful. Believe it or not, I like the one of the bird on the lamp the best. :confused3 The sky in the background, the lighting..Nice job!

Did you enjoy the carriage ride? That's something we have not done at POR. Can't wait to hear about it!

[KathyRN137]

Fabulous pictures, Car! I love the whole atmosphere of that resort! We've stayed at POFQ twice... I wanted Riverside the second time but couldn't get it!!

The carriage ride is a great way to tour both sister resorts... I'm looking forward to hearing about your ride!!


Kathy

[DisMomAmy]

Beautiful resort pictures!! I think I want to stay there now! :thumbsup2

I wish I had taken more photos at the resort...:rolleyes1

[lazydoxy66]

Lovely pictures. I just loved POR. I can't wait to stay there again sometime.

[Girldreamer02]

I've never been to POR, but I've seen pictures of it in many trippies and I love your pictures! :thumbsup2

[cjackearl]

Just beautiful, Carissa. Did you have to do lots of practicing with your camera to get such nice shots?

[carissanboys]

Enjoying your trip report! Your pictures are great and so are the links to each update. Your TR is a pleasure to read!

Thank you so much! :goodvibes

Great pics Carissa. I'll have to sneak away for a little while to take pics on our next trip. Did I tell you we switched from SoG to POR. POR is actually going to be cheaper. It will be nice to be home.:goodvibes This just made my wait a bit worse.

Awesome!!

Great pictures Car!

Thanks :)

Ahhhh...POR.....**sigh**

Your pictures are beautiful. Believe it or not, I like the one of the bird on the lamp the best. :confused3 The sky in the background, the lighting..Nice job!

Did you enjoy the carriage ride? That's something we have not done at POR. Can't wait to hear about it!

Am I going to turn you into a bird lover?? :rolleyes1 I love those pictures too.

Fabulous pictures, Car! I love the whole atmosphere of that resort! We've stayed at POFQ twice... I wanted Riverside the second time but couldn't get it!!

The carriage ride is a great way to tour both sister resorts... I'm looking forward to hearing about your ride!!


Kathy

Thanks Kathy - POR is so beautiful and peaceful.

Beautiful resort pictures!! I think I want to stay there now! :thumbsup2

I wish I had taken more photos at the resort...:rolleyes1

You should stay there! You'd love it. :thumbsup2

Lovely pictures. I just loved POR. I can't wait to stay there again sometime.

I don't know if we'll ever get a chance to stay there again, but I'd love to.

I've never been to POR, but I've seen pictures of it in many trippies and I love your pictures! :thumbsup2

Thanks! You should at least visit sometime. :goodvibes

Just beautiful, Carissa. Did you have to do lots of practicing with your camera to get such nice shots?

I've had the camera for about 5 years. It's pretty much luck with getting nice shots. I still don't understand the lighting and all of that so sometimes they come out too dark. When I went out for the walk by myself, I took time to think about what might make interesting photos. Those bird shots were complete luck because I don't think I realized the lighting/clouds would have that effect when I took them.

Thanks for the compliment on the pictures! :goodvibes

[mousescrapper]

Thanks for sharing all the pictures....POR is a lovely resort!

You have a great eye for the small details...

How's the new home, feeling settled?

[eandesmom]

I'm all caught up!

How scary with Sully, I am so glad you got him in and treated and he responded so well, so quickly.

Thank you for the skillet pictures, I may have to had WCC back into by ADR wish list for the next trip, the kids would love those!

Beautiful Beautiful pictures of POR. I've not seen much of it before and it was really nice to have a variety of shots to look at, it's just lovely! Prettier than I think I'd realized before. Thank you for sharing your walk :)

[Lady Lallie]

Those are just beautiful pictures. Riverside looks so peaceful and relaxing. :cloud9:

[lisalonglash]

Hi Carissa! :wave: I'm sorry, I didn't realize you had a trippie in progress! :guilty:

I'm all caught up now (thanks to your great links!) - what a wonderful trip so far! You and your family are so lovely and fun :thumbsup2

Stitch is sure living up to his reputation! :rotfl2: The resort looks gorgeous! So relaxing and peaceful.

I'm so glad you're all moved - it's so unsettling and stressful moving! :headache:

Looking forward to more!

[momrek06]

Lovely, lovely pictures, Carissa!! I have never been to POR, it was wonderful to see all your photos and be able to get a real feel of that Resort. :goodvibes It is also nice to sometimes be able to get away by yourself when you are on vacation just to have a few moments to yourself. :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

Beautiful photos Carissa, I love POR :goodvibes

[MeMom]

Lovely, lovely pictures, Carissa!! I have never been to POR, it was wonderful to see all your photos and be able to get a real feel of that Resort. :goodvibes It is also nice to sometimes be able to get away by yourself when you are on vacation just to have a few moments to yourself. :goodvibes


The walk along the river from POR to POFQ (or vice versa) is a beautiful place to be for some of that quiet time. We've walked it on three occasions, and in the midst of tens of thousands of people who are Disney property at any given time, there was just about nobody there. It is such a pretty, peaceful place.

Carissa, your pictures were beautiful. I'd love to be standing on the bridge by the water wheel right now heading toward a peaceful walk along the river.

[jordanyosh]

Beautiful pictures!

I'm guilty of not remembering if you've talked about your stay (or maybe I've not read it...:rolleyes1), but did you like POR?

I've heard mostly good things about this resort and it's hard to believe it's a moderate by looking at the grounds.....

I'm hoping to stay there soon.

[wahoostampingirl]

I just got caught up and i love your pictures of POR. We stayed there for one night a couple of years ago. I'd stay there again in a heartbeat.

[Goofster57]

Great pictorial update Carissa...:thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

Thanks for sharing all the pictures....POR is a lovely resort!

You have a great eye for the small details...

How's the new home, feeling settled?

Thanks Julie! New place is great and yes, finally feeling settled. :thumbsup2

I'm all caught up!

How scary with Sully, I am so glad you got him in and treated and he responded so well, so quickly.

Thank you for the skillet pictures, I may have to had WCC back into by ADR wish list for the next trip, the kids would love those!

Beautiful Beautiful pictures of POR. I've not seen much of it before and it was really nice to have a variety of shots to look at, it's just lovely! Prettier than I think I'd realized before. Thank you for sharing your walk :)

Thanks! POR is a gorgeous resort. :thumbsup2

Those are just beautiful pictures. Riverside looks so peaceful and relaxing. :cloud9:

It is! :goodvibes

Hi Carissa! :wave: I'm sorry, I didn't realize you had a trippie in progress! :guilty:

I'm all caught up now (thanks to your great links!) - what a wonderful trip so far! You and your family are so lovely and fun :thumbsup2

Stitch is sure living up to his reputation! :rotfl2: The resort looks gorgeous! So relaxing and peaceful.

I'm so glad you're all moved - it's so unsettling and stressful moving! :headache:

Looking forward to more!

Thanks Lisa! I've been sleeping so much lately. Think all of the stress was getting to me!

Lovely, lovely pictures, Carissa!! I have never been to POR, it was wonderful to see all your photos and be able to get a real feel of that Resort. :goodvibes It is also nice to sometimes be able to get away by yourself when you are on vacation just to have a few moments to yourself. :goodvibes

Thanks Karen. :hug:

Beautiful photos Carissa, I love POR :goodvibes

Thanks Jo! :)

The walk along the river from POR to POFQ (or vice versa) is a beautiful place to be for some of that quiet time. We've walked it on three occasions, and in the midst of tens of thousands of people who are Disney property at any given time, there was just about nobody there. It is such a pretty, peaceful place.

Carissa, your pictures were beautiful. I'd love to be standing on the bridge by the water wheel right now heading toward a peaceful walk along the river.

Me too, MeMom!!!

Beautiful pictures!

I'm guilty of not remembering if you've talked about your stay (or maybe I've not read it...:rolleyes1), but did you like POR?

I've heard mostly good things about this resort and it's hard to believe it's a moderate by looking at the grounds.....

I'm hoping to stay there soon.

Hey J! I was wondering if you were going to make another appearance. ;) I don't believe I've actually come out and talked about my opinion of POR yet in the TR itself, but I answered your question over on your PTR. :thumbsup2

I just got caught up and i love your pictures of POR. We stayed there for one night a couple of years ago. I'd stay there again in a heartbeat.

So would I!

Great pictorial update Carissa...:thumbsup2

Thanks Mr. Mister. :cool2:

You all do realize that I still have a TON of pictures left to post from my walk, right??? :rolleyes1

[carissanboys]

Heading over to the mansions:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4628.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4629.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4631.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4632.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4633.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4634.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4635.jpg

Can you see the little bunny?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4636.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4637.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4638.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4639.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4640.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4643.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4644.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4645.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4647.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4648.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4649.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4650.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4654.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4655.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4656.jpg

And lastly, here's a better picture of the horses and carriage:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4653.jpg

It was time to finish up my solo walk and head back to get the family. We made our way over to the carriage area and didn't have to wait too long. Silly me hadn't brought my camera along (figured I'd taken enough pictures that evening), but I figure y'all will forgive me.

Our horse's name was Dutch. The carriage ride took us over into the French Quarter, which was nice to see because it was the only time we made it over there. I have to say that I personally like Riverside more than the French Quarter, but this opinion is only based on the outside area and the pictures I've seen of the rooms. The pool definitely looks cool!

About halfway through the ride it began to rain. Our driver stopped for a moment so she could put on some rain gear, but myself and whoever was sitting next to me (Sully I think) got a bit wet. Otherwise, it was a lovely evening.

Beforehand I was wondering if I should tip the driver. However, there is a sign in the carriage that says tipping is not allowed. Just an FYI.

We thanked Dutch and our driver and headed back to the room. The boys were in bed by 8:30 and Chuck and I stayed up for a little while reading in our makeshift library.

Up Next - Taking Time to Smell the "Roses" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32355797&postcount=1137)

[DisMomAmy]

What a fun way to explore Port Orleans!! If I ever stay there, I'll definitely look into the carriage ride.:thumbsup2

[Lady Lallie]

The carriage ride sounds nice. Riverside is on my list of places to stay for sure. :thumbsup2

[jmskinner]

POR Mansion side, my home!!!! I just love POR, July 16th isn't getting here quick enough. The pics are fantastic. We have always wanted to do the carriage ride. Probably not this trip, but hopefully soon. You guys really took your time and enjoyed yourselves and relaxed. We never seem to do that.:confused3

[WillowBelle]

Thanks for posting all of those pictures. We always stay value. Have had a looksee around a few of the deluxe resorts but have never taken the time to wander around any of the mods. Looks very peaceful around there!

[mousescrapper]

wow, even more greatr pictures...how nice to have that evening stroll to yourself!

The carriage ride sounded nice! something I have yet to do at WDW...hmmm maybe during the anni trip in 011 :scratchin

[Girldreamer02]

Love the pics! The bunny is my fave...so cute! The carriage ride sounds like fun minus the rain. At least it wasn't raining the whole time...that wouldn't of been very fun.

[Goofster57]

Thanks Mr. Mister. :cool2:

You all do realize that I still have a TON of pictures left to post from my walk, right??? :rolleyes1

Cool with me you know I love pictures


The last installment was just as good as the first ones.

I have got to get over to that resort on the next trip, when ever that will be.....2020?

[MagicShell]

It has been 15 years since I stayed at POR. That was before kids, now we do value. I like that too. Your pictures are so pretty. I remember so much from our trip by looking at those pictures. We stayed in the Mansion area. Very pretty.

[MeMom]

It was time to finish up my solo walk and head back to get the family. We made our way over to the carriage area and didn't have to wait too long. Silly me hadn't brought my camera along (figured I'd taken enough pictures that evening), but I figure y'all will forgive me.



Nope. You'll have to go back and do it again and take pictures this time!

The walk along the river is lovely.
I can hear the water lapping up against the sides of the bank as the boat goes by.
This is me :wave2: waving back at the people on the boat.

[mommytothreeboys]

Once again, beautiful pics of POR! We never actually made it over to the mansion side..just saw it from the river walk and the boat. Everything is so pretty and peaceful at that time of day...your pictures really capture that.

Sounds like a beautiful ride. Aside from the rain, of course..but it doesn't seem like it was a problem. I'm glad you enjoyed it! :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

What a fun way to explore Port Orleans!! If I ever stay there, I'll definitely look into the carriage ride.:thumbsup2

I think it was $30 for a 30 minute ride. I forgot to write it down, but I know it was very reasonable seeing as there were five of us.

The carriage ride sounds nice. Riverside is on my list of places to stay for sure. :thumbsup2

It was nice. :goodvibes

POR Mansion side, my home!!!! I just love POR, July 16th isn't getting here quick enough. The pics are fantastic. We have always wanted to do the carriage ride. Probably not this trip, but hopefully soon. You guys really took your time and enjoyed yourselves and relaxed. We never seem to do that.:confused3

That was one of my goals this time around. It wasn't always completely relaxed, but I think we achieved our goal. :)

Thanks for posting all of those pictures. We always stay value. Have had a looksee around a few of the deluxe resorts but have never taken the time to wander around any of the mods. Looks very peaceful around there!

If there were only 4 of us, I'm not sure if we would have stayed at a moderate, but seeing as we got 40% off the rooms, it's probably the only time we'll be able to afford it.

wow, even more greatr pictures...how nice to have that evening stroll to yourself!

The carriage ride sounded nice! something I have yet to do at WDW...hmmm maybe during the anni trip in 011 :scratchin

It's a great way to look around a resort. :thumbsup2

Love the pics! The bunny is my fave...so cute! The carriage ride sounds like fun minus the rain. At least it wasn't raining the whole time...that wouldn't of been very fun.

If there were just two people, they would have been completely covered from the rain, but our seats were below a bit of opening in the roof.

Cool with me you know I love pictures


The last installment was just as good as the first ones.

I have got to get over to that resort on the next trip, when ever that will be.....2020?

I hope you guys are able to get back before that. :hug:

It has been 15 years since I stayed at POR. That was before kids, now we do value. I like that too. Your pictures are so pretty. I remember so much from our trip by looking at those pictures. We stayed in the Mansion area. Very pretty.

The Mansion area has such a different feel from Alligator Bayou.

Nope. You'll have to go back and do it again and take pictures this time!

The walk along the river is lovely.
I can hear the water lapping up against the sides of the bank as the boat goes by.
This is me :wave2: waving back at the people on the boat.

The driver offered to take our picture in the carriage, but I had to tell her I didn't bring my camera along. :rolleyes1

Once again, beautiful pics of POR! We never actually made it over to the mansion side..just saw it from the river walk and the boat. Everything is so pretty and peaceful at that time of day...your pictures really capture that.

Sounds like a beautiful ride. Aside from the rain, of course..but it doesn't seem like it was a problem. I'm glad you enjoyed it! :thumbsup2

One of my favorite times of day. And I'm so rarely outside during that time so it was a special treat for me. :)

[dddisrunner]

WOW! Beautiful pictures Carissa! You can tell how much you enjoyed your walk by all the pictures! Sorry you got rained on during your carriage ride but I am glad it didn't ruin your ride!:thumbsup2

[jcc0621]

Beautiful pictures. I almost upgraded to POR this year, but DS really wanted to stay at Pop again. Since it is birthday/moving up to 1st grade trip I let him have his way...this time;)

[wvdislover]

Your pictures are absolutely beautiful! It's almost like being there. We've stayed there a few times, ourselves. Enjoyed hearing about your horse and carriage ride--may have to check into that for our next trip, as I always try to plan something different for each trip :rolleyes:

[Blueyed Girl]

Love all the POR pictures!!! All the little details brought me back to our trip there in May 2008. The horse carriage ride has some new details because when we did it back then tipping was allowed because we tipped him and didn't see any sign. We also did not get to go to FQ. We even commented that it would be nice if we could but we just turned around in the parking lot between POR and FQ. :confused3 Glad to see it is a longer ride now. We will have to go back and check it out. :thumbsup2

[winkers]

Gorgeous pictures!!!
Those are the first I've seen from riverside that make me want to stay there.

I never seem to find time to walk around and enjoy the resorts...next time I need an extra day or two just for that.;)

[Goofster57]

I hope you guys are able to get back before that. :hug:+


From your mouth to the machine that picks the Lotto numbers...:rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

Shame it rained but at least you didn't get too wet and thanks for the tipping info, good to know :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Thank you for all those gorgeous pictures around the resort... they really give you a feel for the place!! :goodvibes

And how nice to have squeezed in a bit of alone time! :cloud9:


Kathy

[Happydog]

I finally did it! I made it through eight pages and some fabulous photos and stories!

First the WL and WCC looked like a great evening (except DS who got a little sick :sad1:) We have an ADR there too, looking forward to it!

Re the Lyme disease scare, yes, around here MD & VA you don't mess around with that!

Hope the move went very well, and you were not drowning in all the rain we have had!!!

Also then the POR photos, absolutely lovely. Great at dusk, and I am glad you tried the carriage ride, I am thinking we'll do one or the sleigh ride in December.

Great updates, and I am glad I have caught up with everything!!!
:flower3:

[lazydoxy66]

More great shots! I love the whole area. Short strolls along the river were so nice.

[Charleston Princess]

Carissa! I am so glad that you are back to writing your TR! Great photos of the boys at Wilderness Lodge and beautiful photos all around Riverside!

[OhMari]

Hey Carissa,
Finally caught up, I had a good Monday morning read.
Took 2 hours, while I was actually working.:rotfl:
Thanks for all the pictures for POR.
We actually found out, we liked the Food Court over at POFQ.
Especially when our boys came in for the weekend. They had
a pizza window and I think my boys ordered pizza every nite.
Also the baquettes were delicious, but a "heart attack" waiting to happen on a plate.

How is your new home going? I just saw today in some of your updates that you moved.

[carissanboys]

WOW! Beautiful pictures Carissa! You can tell how much you enjoyed your walk by all the pictures! Sorry you got rained on during your carriage ride but I am glad it didn't ruin your ride!:thumbsup2

I did enjoy my walk! :goodvibes

Beautiful pictures. I almost upgraded to POR this year, but DS really wanted to stay at Pop again. Since it is birthday/moving up to 1st grade trip I let him have his way...this time;)

:rotfl: I'm sure Pop is a lot of fun. I still haven't made my way over to check out the value resorts even though I intend to every trip.

Your pictures are absolutely beautiful! It's almost like being there. We've stayed there a few times, ourselves. Enjoyed hearing about your horse and carriage ride--may have to check into that for our next trip, as I always try to plan something different for each trip :rolleyes:

Planning something new each trip keeps things exciting. ;)

Love all the POR pictures!!! All the little details brought me back to our trip there in May 2008. The horse carriage ride has some new details because when we did it back then tipping was allowed because we tipped him and didn't see any sign. We also did not get to go to FQ. We even commented that it would be nice if we could but we just turned around in the parking lot between POR and FQ. :confused3 Glad to see it is a longer ride now. We will have to go back and check it out. :thumbsup2

Hey Cherie! That's interesting about the carriage ride changing.

Gorgeous pictures!!!
Those are the first I've seen from riverside that make me want to stay there.

I never seem to find time to walk around and enjoy the resorts...next time I need an extra day or two just for that.;)

I always feel like we need an extra day or two to relax and this trip was no exeption.

From your mouth to the machine that picks the Lotto numbers...:rotfl2:

:pixiedust:

Shame it rained but at least you didn't get too wet and thanks for the tipping info, good to know :thumbsup2

Thankfully it didn't rain for long.

Thank you for all those gorgeous pictures around the resort... they really give you a feel for the place!! :goodvibes

And how nice to have squeezed in a bit of alone time! :cloud9:


Kathy

Thanks Kathy! I was excited to share my pictures with you all. :goodvibes

I finally did it! I made it through eight pages and some fabulous photos and stories!

Hope the move went very well, and you were not drowning in all the rain we have had!!!

Also then the POR photos, absolutely lovely. Great at dusk, and I am glad you tried the carriage ride, I am thinking we'll do one or the sleigh ride in December.

Great updates, and I am glad I have caught up with everything!!!
:flower3:

I know how you feel about the catching up! I got caught up, but am now behind again. :sad2:

The sleigh ride sounds so lovely!

More great shots! I love the whole area. Short strolls along the river were so nice.

I love the river. :love:

Carissa! I am so glad that you are back to writing your TR! Great photos of the boys at Wilderness Lodge and beautiful photos all around Riverside!

Thanks Jackie. Can't wait to hear all about your trip!

Hey Carissa,
Finally caught up, I had a good Monday morning read.
Took 2 hours, while I was actually working.:rotfl:
Thanks for all the pictures for POR.
We actually found out, we liked the Food Court over at POFQ.
Especially when our boys came in for the weekend. They had
a pizza window and I think my boys ordered pizza every nite.
Also the baquettes were delicious, but a "heart attack" waiting to happen on a plate.

How is your new home going? I just saw today in some of your updates that you moved.

Hey Marisa! You can order pizza at POR's food court too (we didn't though).

New home is all settled and I feel like I know where most important things are around us. :thumbsup2

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

Just a quick update. Chuck leaves tomorrow for Florida and will be gone 4 - 5 months while he goes to school. So, things for me should get back to normal after that.

We are all settled and enjoying our new home. :goodvibes

I should have another installment tomorrow morning. :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

Enjoy your last day with Chuck! I know you and the boys will miss him! :hug: Will he be able to come home some on the weekends?

[carissanboys]

Enjoy your last day with Chuck! I know you and the boys will miss him! :hug: Will he be able to come home some on the weekends?

He could, but it's a 14 hour drive and flights would add up. We're planning on him flying home over Labor Day Weekend and the boys and I driving down for a week beginning of October.

[jmskinner]

That's great that you have planned some trips to see each other. Whenver DH goes to DC everyone always asks if he flys home on the weekends. I can never find airfare cheap enough. Everyone else acts like they do it all the time. :confused3

[jordanyosh]

I must've missed something. How long will he be gone for?

[momrek06]

Just a quick update. Chuck leaves tomorrow for Florida and will be gone 4 - 5 months while he goes to school. So, things for me should get back to normal after that.

We are all settled and enjoying our new home. :goodvibes

I should have another installment tomorrow morning. :thumbsup2

Carissa and the boys:
Have a great day today with Chuck!! Lots of kisses and hugs!! He will be in all our prayers as he heads to school with the USNAVY!!! http://bestsmileys.com/hugging/4.gif

[MagicShell]

Sorry to hear Chuck will be gone so long. I hope the time passes quickly.

[carissanboys]

That's great that you have planned some trips to see each other. Whenver DH goes to DC everyone always asks if he flys home on the weekends. I can never find airfare cheap enough. Everyone else acts like they do it all the time. :confused3

I'm really excited about the trip down there. I'm thinking about renting a place on the beach for the week.

I must've missed something. How long will he be gone for?

Chuck has orders on board the U.S.S. Eisenhower out of Norfolk, Virginia, but first he has to do 4 months of school down in Pensacola. So, this separation will be the first of many to come in the next three years.

Carissa and the boys:
Have a great day today with Chuck!! Lots of kisses and hugs!! He will be in all our prayers as he heads to school with the USNAVY!!! http://bestsmileys.com/hugging/4.gif

Thank you, Karen. :hug: We've both been taking turns running errands before he has to leave. We did enjoy some coffee this morning while sitting out on our swing. :love: We'll have some more quiet time together tonight.

Sorry to hear Chuck will be gone so long. I hope the time passes quickly.

Thank you. :) This time apart won't be so bad because we can still talk on the phone every day and visit. The hard part will come once he's actually on the ship. We're not sure how much time (if any) he'll have at home once he finishes school before he has to be on the ship.

[Emma's Dad]

I'm still getting caught up on your TR, Carissa. Unfortunately, I don't get to see the pics while I'm at work (they block them), and I haven't had much time at home to get caught up on much of anything (except maybe a quick FB update :rotfl:).

Hopefully things are going OK with Chuck heading down for training. You certainly have kept busy! I think you've visit VB more in the last week than I have all year! :rotfl2:

[mrsksomeday]

Great installments, I loved all the pictures on your walk. I love POR so much, thanks for sharing.

[DisMomAmy]

Hi Carissa - I'm sorry Chuck is going to be gone so long... :sad2: I hope the time goes by smoothly & you get to enjoy your trip down to see him. You said Florida, right? Any special plans while you are there? :rolleyes1

[MeMom]

Just checking in to say I hope you are all doing well and keeping busy. I know this hasn't bene the greatest week for any of you. Hopefully, we (your DIS friends) can try to keep you smiling with all of our craziness in the months ahead. Too bad we're not closer, 'cause I'd absolutely volunteer to babysit so you could have a girls' night out sometimes.

Wonder if it would be any cheaper for you guys to meet in the middle once or twice. If he got a cheap flight halfway up and you drove halfway down? Something to think about, anyway, if the going gets rough.

Just know that we all are thinking of you. My Air Force dad was gone many times for many months at a time when I was growing up, so I know what it's like.

[Goofster57]

:car: just passing through

[dddisrunner]

Hi Carissa, I am so happy to hear that you are getting comfortable in your new home and community!! I wish you lots of happiness while you are there!:goodvibes

[jordanyosh]

so sorry to hear that time with Chuck will be off and on over the next 3 years...:sad2:

we'll keep u company...:grouphug:

[jordanyosh]

:car: just passing through

Can you do that on my PTR?

[carissanboys]

I'm still getting caught up on your TR, Carissa. Unfortunately, I don't get to see the pics while I'm at work (they block them), and I haven't had much time at home to get caught up on much of anything (except maybe a quick FB update :rotfl:).

Hopefully things are going OK with Chuck heading down for training. You certainly have kept busy! I think you've visit VB more in the last week than I have all year! :rotfl2:

No worries. I haven't been very good about keeping up with TRs and PTRs lately!

Great installments, I loved all the pictures on your walk. I love POR so much, thanks for sharing.

Thanks :goodvibes

Hi Carissa - I'm sorry Chuck is going to be gone so long... :sad2: I hope the time goes by smoothly & you get to enjoy your trip down to see him. You said Florida, right? Any special plans while you are there? :rolleyes1

:rotfl: No - Disney World will not be in our plans. Pensacola is still pretty far from Orlando. Not to mention - I don't do the World in the summer! :rolleyes1

Just checking in to say I hope you are all doing well and keeping busy. I know this hasn't bene the greatest week for any of you. Hopefully, we (your DIS friends) can try to keep you smiling with all of our craziness in the months ahead. Too bad we're not closer, 'cause I'd absolutely volunteer to babysit so you could have a girls' night out sometimes.

Wonder if it would be any cheaper for you guys to meet in the middle once or twice. If he got a cheap flight halfway up and you drove halfway down? Something to think about, anyway, if the going gets rough.

Just know that we all are thinking of you. My Air Force dad was gone many times for many months at a time when I was growing up, so I know what it's like.

Thanks MeMom :hug: I had a tough day today. I guess it's all just hit me - how long he's really going to be gone and that this will continue for the next 3 - 4 years. I know we'll get through it - just feeling a bit down about it today. Meeting halfway is a good idea!

:car: just passing through

:cheer2:

Hi Carissa, I am so happy to hear that you are getting comfortable in your new home and community!! I wish you lots of happiness while you are there!:goodvibes

Thanks Diane :)

so sorry to hear that time with Chuck will be off and on over the next 3 years...:sad2:

we'll keep u company...:grouphug:

I'm counting on it! :thumbsup2

Can you do that on my PTR?

I think I can allow that as long as Keith always stops by here first. :cool2:

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

I know I said I'd post another installment like two days ago. :guilty: I've been busy working on my blog and it's taken up a lot of my time. But, I PROMISE that I will post an installment first thing tomorrow morning and start trying to get caught up again on TRs and PTRs. :flower3:

[jordanyosh]

I think I can allow that as long as Keith always stops by here first. :cool2:

Deal

[thadarkslayer]

So, I just started reading your TR (later is better than never, right?), and I've thoroughly enjoyed it so far.

It's really making me want to stay at POR again.

[Goofster57]

Can you do that on my PTR?



I think I can allow that as long as Keith always stops by here first. :cool2:



Deal


What PTR? :confused3

I am so far behind on keeping up on these broads I'm ahead of myself...

[carissanboys]

So, I just started reading your TR (later is better than never, right?), and I've thoroughly enjoyed it so far.

It's really making me want to stay at POR again.

:welcome: Sometimes coming in late is better than early because you don't have to wait for updates. :thumbsup2

What PTR? :confused3

I am so far behind on keeping up on these broads I'm ahead of myself...

Who you callin' a broad?? I'm offended by your slang term for the female gender. :snooty:

:rolleyes1

[carissanboys]

(I just discovered the Auto Fix button at photobucket and I'm in love! However, that coupled with some other issues I was having over there made it very time consuming to get this update completed.)

~ April 1st, 2009 ~

When I last left you, we were all sleeping - dreams of our lovely carriage ride in the rain still fresh in our thoughts. I woke up around 6:15, got ready, and rounded up the rest of the gang. We decided to head over to the food court again this morning and use more snack credits for breakfast.

With full bellies, we got in the van and drove over to Epcot. I was really excited to see the Flower and Garden Festival! Once again, we made it before opening and were there for rope drop. I don't really remember much of anything special happening, but it's always good to get there early.

We decided to go ahead and get a single stroller since Epcot is such a big park. I wanted to get a double because I knew Old Man Owen would eventually get tired. But, Chuck really didn't want to spend the extra money. And I agree that having a single stroller is much easier to navigate through the crowds than a double.

Here are a couple of pictures of the new stroller (which is smaller than the old one):

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4673-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4674.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4672.jpg

While Chuck was getting the stroller, I took some time to take pictures.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4660.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4666.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4667.jpg

With Belle about to be hit by the oncoming monorail:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4668.jpg

And with Belle safely out of harm's way:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4669.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4670.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4671.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4661.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4662.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4663.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4665.jpg

I forgot to mention that right after we arrived at Epcot, Sully and I headed over to one of the stands at the entrance and purchased the really cool visor he's wearing in the above picture (to replace the hat he lost).

At this point, we decided to split up. Owen and Connor didn't want to ride Test Track, so Sully and I headed over there while Chuck took Owen and Connor to ride Nemo. I wonder who got the better part of the deal there??

Along the way I had to stop every few minutes to take pictures of the amazing topiaries.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4675.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4676-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4677.jpg

We finally made our way over to Test Track (with minimal "Come on Mama!" 's from Sully). I had been on TT twice on our first visit, but had stayed with the little ones on our 2nd trip so that everyone else could ride (my parents were with us). I really enjoyed myself this time. It's such a fun ride.

The plan was to meet back up with Chuck and the boys at Soarin'. We leisurely made our way to The Land pavilion, but along the way had to stop in and see the butterflies.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4679-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4682.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4684.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4680-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4678-1.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4686.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4687.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4688.jpg

I reluctantly tore myself away from the picture taking and we headed inside to Soarin'. I was expecting Chuck and the boys to be there waiting, but they were nowhere to be seen. So, we took a bathroom break and had a seat on the bench to wait for them.

Silly me had left my phone back in the room thinking I wouldn't need it. I really wish I'd had it with me. We waited. And waited. And waited some more. I finally decided to get some fastpasses. I don't really remember what my reasoning was because the return time on them was right around the time we were to be at Le Cellier for lunch. And I knew we wouldn't be making our way back over to that area later in the day. I ended up giving the fastpasses away to a lady sitting next to us.

So, we continued to wait - wondering where in the heck those boys were!

Up Next - First Class Passengers (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32422296&postcount=1175)

[jmskinner]

Another great update. You did take a lot of pics. Love the monorail and Belle pic.:rotfl:

I never saw those boxes in the water by Nemo. We never went that way and how many times did I got to Epcot during the F&G Festival?????

[carissanboys]

Another great update. You did take a lot of pics. Love the monorail and Belle pic.:rotfl:

I never saw those boxes in the water by Nemo. We never went that way and how many times did I got to Epcot during the F&G Festival?????

I'm still not sure what they were - but they were so pretty! I'm glad I was able to show you something you haven't seen before. ;)

[DisMomAmy]

I love the F&G Festival!! Sounds like a nice start to the day at Epcot - but where are those boys?? :confused3

[jmskinner]

I love the F&G Festival!! Sounds like a nice start to the day at Epcot - but where are those boys?? :confused3

We're suppose to take pics of our kids at the F&G Festival? :lmao: JK, I bet Carissa has a lot of pics of them to come.

[KathyRN137]

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4682.jpg



http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4688.jpg




Oooh... your butterfly pix came out way better than mine did!! :goodvibes

Are those painted lanterns in the water? :confused3 I didn't see those during last year's festival!

Sorry Chuck will have to be gone so long... but they do say that absence makes the heart grow fonder!! :love:


Kathy

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hmmmm, I didn't see those painted boxes either. :confused3

[Charleston Princess]

Belle about to get hit by the monorail! :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2:

The Flower and Garden photos are so beautiful!!! I want to go to Disney World during that time of year!

Where were the boys????

[carissanboys]

I love the F&G Festival!! Sounds like a nice start to the day at Epcot - but where are those boys?? :confused3

If only I'd had my phone!!!! :sad2:

We're suppose to take pics of our kids at the F&G Festival? :lmao: JK, I bet Carissa has a lot of pics of them to come.

:rotfl: I think Amy was just referring to my final comment in the update. ;)

Oooh... your butterfly pix came out way better than mine did!! :goodvibes

Are those painted lanterns in the water? :confused3 I didn't see those during last year's festival!

Sorry Chuck will have to be gone so long... but they do say that absence makes the heart grow fonder!! :love:


Kathy

I don't believe the "boxes" moved, which makes me wonder how they stayed still. :confused3

:love:

Hmmmm, I didn't see those painted boxes either. :confused3

Maybe it didn't have anything to do with the F & G Festival, but was for something else. We'll have to wait and see if anyone else saw them and knows what they were!

Belle about to get hit by the monorail! :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2:

The Flower and Garden photos are so beautiful!!! I want to go to Disney World during that time of year!

Where were the boys????

You should definitely go. It really is breathtaking. :goodvibes

[jmskinner]

:rotfl: I think Amy was just referring to my final comment in the update. ;)




The second time I read that, I realized that is what she meant. Obviously I am not fully awake.

[GGOOFY1]

My husband complains about my phone all time. I have to have it on vibrate because of work and it just isn't strong enough, so I always miss his calls. Also, I don't carry it around at home, you know I'm at home so call the house phone!!

[momrek06]

LOVING Sully's new visor!!! :love:
Wow, those new strollers are awesome. First time we ever took our boys to WDW they were 8&5yo. I :idea: decided to get a stroller for my 5yo BUT he had a FIT that I would do such a thing. :mad: I told him I got it to help me carry everything (in those days our camcorders were HUGE :laughing:) etc etc. Within hours, Mike is getting a bit tired/hot and decides he will TRY the stroller.....well need I say more, he used it for us to push him everywhere, to nap, to even eat in!!! :rotfl: All in all, it was a good decision to get him a stroller despite being 5yo. :thumbsup2

LOVING the Topiaries, Carissa. Another great update!!! :yay:

[DisneyJo]

Beautiful photos I so want to see it IRL one day and hope nothing horrid happened!

[mommytothreeboys]

Yay! A Carissa update! So glad to have you back....:hug:

I love Sully's visor...I looked at a hoodie in the same design, but didn't buy it. Now I wish I had...UGH!

Beautiful F&G photos. I am so spoiled...our two family trips have been during the festival....how do they decorate those spaces during other times of the year?? :confused:

I remember seeing those floating boxes and finding them interesting. I thought I took a picture, but just looked through all my pics and apparently I didn't. They were cool looking!

My guess is that the boys rode Nemo and then got held up looking at all the stuff in the tanks afterward. :confused3

[MRYPPNS]

I'm guessing that the boys are snuck in that never ending - always empty que at Nemo.....why is that thing so dang long?????

[lazydoxy66]

The flowers are beautiful. It looks like you had a very peaceful beginning to the day.

[wvdislover]

Nice update! The flowers are beautiful...I may have to make a spring trip, maybe with my mom, to see the F & G festival. We did see it when we took Sarah, our DD11, for her first trip back in 2002...quite a long time ago. I don't remember much about it from then.

So sorry that Chuck will be gone for so long. I know that will be hard on you and the boys. Hopefully you'll be so busy with homeschooling that it'll be easier on you.

Looking forward to the next update!

[Goofster57]

Who you callin' a broad?? I'm offended by your slang term for the female gender. :snooty:
:rolleyes1

:rotfl2:

Sorry Carissa,
I guess I need to pay closer attention to what I click on in Spell Check

:worship:

Great update Carissa,
Enjoyed all of the pictures

Can't wait to hear how you guys found each other.....I'm guess it turned out you were both sitting on opposite sides of the pavilion waiting on each other

[carissanboys]

The second time I read that, I realized that is what she meant. Obviously I am not fully awake.

I actually thought the same thing when I first read it. ;)

My husband complains about my phone all time. I have to have it on vibrate because of work and it just isn't strong enough, so I always miss his calls. Also, I don't carry it around at home, you know I'm at home so call the house phone!!

:rotfl: My husband has been known to call me on my cell at home too. Now he HAS to since we don't have a land line. I've taken to carrying it around with me. :rolleyes:

LOVING Sully's new visor!!! :love:
Wow, those new strollers are awesome. First time we ever took our boys to WDW they were 8&5yo. I :idea: decided to get a stroller for my 5yo BUT he had a FIT that I would do such a thing. :mad: I told him I got it to help me carry everything (in those days our camcorders were HUGE :laughing:) etc etc. Within hours, Mike is getting a bit tired/hot and decides he will TRY the stroller.....well need I say more, he used it for us to push him everywhere, to nap, to even eat in!!! :rotfl: All in all, it was a good decision to get him a stroller despite being 5yo. :thumbsup2

LOVING the Topiaries, Carissa. Another great update!!! :yay:

Sully would have climbed in too if we'd let him! :lmao:

Beautiful photos I so want to see it IRL one day and hope nothing horrid happened!

I hope you do! :goodvibes

Yay! A Carissa update! So glad to have you back....:hug:

I love Sully's visor...I looked at a hoodie in the same design, but didn't buy it. Now I wish I had...UGH!

Beautiful F&G photos. I am so spoiled...our two family trips have been during the festival....how do they decorate those spaces during other times of the year?? :confused:

I remember seeing those floating boxes and finding them interesting. I thought I took a picture, but just looked through all my pics and apparently I didn't. They were cool looking!

My guess is that the boys rode Nemo and then got held up looking at all the stuff in the tanks afterward. :confused3

Yay! Someone else who saw the boxes too! I believe those spaces are just left green the rest of the time.

I'm guessing that the boys are snuck in that never ending - always empty que at Nemo.....why is that thing so dang long?????

:lmao:

The flowers are beautiful. It looks like you had a very peaceful beginning to the day.

It was peaceful - although a bit too hot for me.

Nice update! The flowers are beautiful...I may have to make a spring trip, maybe with my mom, to see the F & G festival. We did see it when we took Sarah, our DD11, for her first trip back in 2002...quite a long time ago. I don't remember much about it from then.

So sorry that Chuck will be gone for so long. I know that will be hard on you and the boys. Hopefully you'll be so busy with homeschooling that it'll be easier on you.

Looking forward to the next update!

That's what I'm hoping! We've decided to do school year round (4 weeks on, 1 week off) and we're going to start July 6th. We're all actually excited about it. I think we're getting a bit stir crazy!

:rotfl2:

Sorry Carissa,
I guess I need to pay closer attention to what I click on in Spell Check

:worship:

Great update Carissa,
Enjoyed all of the pictures

Can't wait to hear how you guys found each other.....I'm guess it turned out you were both sitting on opposite sides of the pavilion waiting on each other

You know me - I usually let the typos slip by without a comment, but I had to tease you about that one. ;)

[winkers]

I love the flower and garden fest!

I like the picture of Belle and the monorail!:lmao:

those strollers look realy small.....poor boy practically has his knees up his nose!

[carissanboys]

I love the flower and garden fest!

I like the picture of Belle and the monorail!:lmao:

those strollers look realy small.....poor boy practically has his knees up his nose!

:rotfl: They weren't too bad, but definitely smaller.


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

Happy Father's Day to my dad readers!! Hope you're treated like royalty today. :thumbsup2

[Kirby]

I'd love to go during the flower and garden fest. What were the temperatures like during your stay? Maybe you've already said, I remember the rain but not the temps.

[carissanboys]

I'd love to go during the flower and garden fest. What were the temperatures like during your stay? Maybe you've already said, I remember the rain but not the temps.

The temps were mainly in the high 70's to low 80's. Most of the time it was pretty comfortable (and I hate the heat) except for this day at Epcot. It's that humidity that kills you!

I've been to Florida in July (eek!!), January, first week of March and last week of March. The most enjoyable weather for me personally was during January. There were some days we had to wear hats and gloves in the mornings, but by early afternoon it was lovely outside. But, I can handle March weather. I just have to hit the parks early, leave midday when the heat and crowds get to be too much, and then head back when it starts to cool off.

[mrsksomeday]

Great Epcot pictures, I love the one with Belle and the monorail :rotfl:.

[hhockman]

Whew! Okay, I didn't read any chatter, but just read through your whole TR (sorry, I didn't get to the PTR-I saw 180 pages and :scared1:).

I'm having a great time reading. It's always interesting for me to read about trips from different points of view.

We're staying at POR in September, and it's been a while since we've stayed there, so I'm loving all the pictures.

Hope the time while Chuck is gone passes quickly.

[carissanboys]

Great Epcot pictures, I love the one with Belle and the monorail :rotfl:.

Thanks :) When I took the first one with the monorail in it, I thought - hey - cool picture. But, it might be nice to have a picture without the monorail. So, I took the second shot. Then when I went to post them I thought, "It really looks like poor Belle is about to be smooshed!" :lmao:

Whew! Okay, I didn't read any chatter, but just read through your whole TR (sorry, I didn't get to the PTR-I saw 180 pages and :scared1:).

I'm having a great time reading. It's always interesting for me to read about trips from different points of view.

We're staying at POR in September, and it's been a while since we've stayed there, so I'm loving all the pictures.

Hope the time while Chuck is gone passes quickly.

:welcome: No worries on the PTR! It's a very confusing story anyway. :rotfl:

Thanks for reading. :goodvibes

[eandesmom]

Great updates as always! Oh I want to go for F&G someday. Slight possibility my SIL may do it next year but..... we will see!

4-5 months, wow! What kind of school is he going to? I so admire military families. I look at what my brother goes through in terms of changes and wow, it's hard!

[LaurenMic]

Hey Carissa! I am all caught up, sorry it took so long! Great updates as usual. Love the flower and garden fest! WCC is super yummy :) But i agree that milkshake + skillet = bad news!

Hope those boys finally showed up soon, waiting is the worst! TT is awesome you definitely lucked out on that one. Can't wait to read more, especially since it includes a trip to Le Cellier!

[torsie24]

Lovely update!! Hope you found your boys pretty soon! And I hope they had a fun time wherever they were! Beautiful F&G Photos!

[MeMom]

Beautiful pictures!
There's not much that beats a morning photo walk at Epcot during Flower & Garden Festival. Everyone should give that a try sometime. :)

With the homeschooling, just think of all the awesome field trips you can take. Not only will it be fun, but it'll help keep your mind of missing dad/hubby. If you ever want to field trip in Nashville, let us know and we'll come and meet up with you. We've got a good zoo and a science museum, the Parthenon and some good parks, the Titans' coliseum, some forts, the Grand Old Opry and a bunch of country music stuff.... that people who live here never go see. Other people travel hundreds of miles to hang out here, though. :laughing:

Also, I teach in a Pre-K to 4th school, so if I can be of any kind of resource to you, I'd be happy to help with ideas, worksheets, projects, whatever.

[Happydog]

What a great update --- those flower photos WOW made my eyes pop! How wonderful! Just so colorful... and the Epcot visor -- TOOOO cool. May be getting that one for my DS7 -- he had one with Stitch on it, lost it a few years ago, so time to get a new one... will check that one out! hey, DH's dad was in the navy, gone on tours too, I am sure it will be difficult, but you'll have a good home base and lots of support. :goodvibes

[irene_dsc]

Love the F&G pics! Glad you got to enjoy it - but I can so relate to trying to take pics while kids are rushing you! (Tho dd now is the one who wants to take a ton of pics sometimes, lol). Those floating boxes were definitely cool - it'll be interesting to see if someone ever figures out what they were for.

Btw, there's a chance we may end up homeschooling ds - long, long story.

[MagicShell]

I love your pictures. I hate the times in WDW when you are looking for people, I feel like I am wasting so much time. I hope your wait ends soon.

[mousescrapper]

Just a quick update. Chuck leaves tomorrow for Florida and will be gone 4 - 5 months while he goes to school. So, things for me should get back to normal after that.



sorry I missed this bit of news...

I hope you're day w/ Chuck was a good one and that you will all be safe and well during this time apart....:grouphug:


[FONT="Trebuchet MS"][SIZE="3"]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4668.jpg[/IMG]


:lmao:



http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4687.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4688.jpg


[COLOR="royalblue"]we'ren't those floating painted cubes cool....we stopped to admire them too! nice pictures of the art!

brings back fond memories!


I ended up giving the fastpasses away to a lady sitting next to us.

well at least you shared some magic :wizard: today!

So, we continued to wait - wondering where in the heck those boys were!

Yes where are they....did they get stuck on a ride? :confused3



looking forward to finding Chuck and the boys!

J-popcorn::

[scottny]

I am all caught up again.

Great updates and pics.

The pics at Epcot are gorgeous.

[dismagiclover]

I love the pictures of Epcot flower & Garden Festival. I want to go one of these years! Good luck with the single parenting thing. I know you do what you've got to do, but it must get old. At least Virginia Beach sounds like a nice place to be:goodvibes

[cjackearl]

Uh oh. I hope everything was ok with the rest of your family. Your pictures of the F&G Festival are great. I especially like the ostriches.:)

[carissanboys]

Great updates as always! Oh I want to go for F&G someday. Slight possibility my SIL may do it next year but..... we will see!

4-5 months, wow! What kind of school is he going to? I so admire military families. I look at what my brother goes through in terms of changes and wow, it's hard!

Some kind of school where he's studying bits and bauds?? I dunno. Something like that. Maybe he'll chime in. Today was his first official day of class.

Hey Carissa! I am all caught up, sorry it took so long! Great updates as usual. Love the flower and garden fest! WCC is super yummy :) But i agree that milkshake + skillet = bad news!

Hope those boys finally showed up soon, waiting is the worst! TT is awesome you definitely lucked out on that one. Can't wait to read more, especially since it includes a trip to Le Cellier!

Thanks Lauren - it didn't take you long! I'm here so rarely these days anyway. I can't believe my TR has lasted this long! :rotfl:

Lovely update!! Hope you found your boys pretty soon! And I hope they had a fun time wherever they were! Beautiful F&G Photos!

Hey girl! :goodvibes Thanks!

Beautiful pictures!
There's not much that beats a morning photo walk at Epcot during Flower & Garden Festival. Everyone should give that a try sometime. :)

With the homeschooling, just think of all the awesome field trips you can take. Not only will it be fun, but it'll help keep your mind of missing dad/hubby. If you ever want to field trip in Nashville, let us know and we'll come and meet up with you. We've got a good zoo and a science museum, the Parthenon and some good parks, the Titans' coliseum, some forts, the Grand Old Opry and a bunch of country music stuff.... that people who live here never go see. Other people travel hundreds of miles to hang out here, though. :laughing:

Also, I teach in a Pre-K to 4th school, so if I can be of any kind of resource to you, I'd be happy to help with ideas, worksheets, projects, whatever.

Thanks MeMom - I'm sure I'll have questions for you along the way! I'd love to visit Nashville one of these days. :thumbsup2

What a great update --- those flower photos WOW made my eyes pop! How wonderful! Just so colorful... and the Epcot visor -- TOOOO cool. May be getting that one for my DS7 -- he had one with Stitch on it, lost it a few years ago, so time to get a new one... will check that one out! hey, DH's dad was in the navy, gone on tours too, I am sure it will be difficult, but you'll have a good home base and lots of support. :goodvibes

Thanks :goodvibes I love Sully's visor!

Love the F&G pics! Glad you got to enjoy it - but I can so relate to trying to take pics while kids are rushing you! (Tho dd now is the one who wants to take a ton of pics sometimes, lol). Those floating boxes were definitely cool - it'll be interesting to see if someone ever figures out what they were for.

Btw, there's a chance we may end up homeschooling ds - long, long story.

Hey Irene :goodvibes Feel free to PM me and let me know what's going on - I'd be interested to hear about your decision.

I love your pictures. I hate the times in WDW when you are looking for people, I feel like I am wasting so much time. I hope your wait ends soon.

Me too! I'm not a patient person. :rolleyes1

sorry I missed this bit of news...

I hope you're day w/ Chuck was a good one and that you will all be safe and well during this time apart....:grouphug:

looking forward to finding Chuck and the boys!

J-popcorn::

Thanks Julie :goodvibes

I am all caught up again.

Great updates and pics.

The pics at Epcot are gorgeous.

Thanks Scott :)

I love the pictures of Epcot flower & Garden Festival. I want to go one of these years! Good luck with the single parenting thing. I know you do what you've got to do, but it must get old. At least Virginia Beach sounds like a nice place to be:goodvibes

Hey Jenny! :) Yes - VA Beach is wonderful.

Uh oh. I hope everything was ok with the rest of your family. Your pictures of the F&G Festival are great. I especially like the ostriches.:)

Thanks :) Hopefully we'll find out soon what happened to those boys. ;) (If I don't get sidetracked.)

[carissanboys]

I think I've left you hanging long enough. :rolleyes1

So, Sully and I were sitting at Soarin', waiting for Chuck and the boys. Finally, when I was just about ready to send out a search party for a man, two little boys, and a blue furry creature who has been known to cause trouble - I finally spotted the rest of my family. :cool1:

Here is the story that Chuck told me. While they were waiting at Soarin' for us, a CM came up to them and asked if they'd like to be First Class Passengers! Chuck said, "Sure!" So, the CM swept them outside through some secret door, past everyone in line, gave them this cool certificate signed by the crew,

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3024.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3023.jpg

and then brought them into the room with the gliders and said, "Please help us welcome our First Class Passengers - the K Family from Maryland!" And they got front row seats! :woohoo:

Wasn't that cool??

Yeah - it was. Except, Sully and I now had to go wait in the stand by line for 40 minutes. :rolleyes:

No, really. I was happy for them. Chuck usually misses out on the fun/cool magical stuff that happens to us so I couldn't begrudge him his special pixie dust. There was a small part of me that was hoping he'd pull out a pair of fastpasses that the CM might have given him for his remaining family.

I think this was the first time I got to go through the queue at Soarin' and those pictures on the wall are pretty cool to stare at - for 40 minutes.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4689.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4691.jpg

Soarin' was enjoyable as always. While we were flying around, avoiding golf balls, Chuck and the boys rode Living with the Land and played at the Kid Cot station. We all met up again and decided to have a quick snack at Sunshine Seasons food court.

Mainly we had to take a break because a certain someone was getting hungry. :rolleyes:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4692.jpg

Love the view in here.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4693.jpg

We packed up our stuff, wiped the crumbs off of Stitch's face, and headed out of The Land. Time for more pictures of flowers and I was on a mission!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4694.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4696.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4697.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4720.jpg

Stitch wasn't sure how he felt about this large, scary looking Stitch.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4721.jpg

Do you think Sully is getting tired of stopping for pictures yet?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4722.jpg

I don't think I'd ever noticed these before:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4719.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4718.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4717.jpg

I know a CM on the boat taxi told me they have these birdhouses to keep the mosquito population down. Is that why these are in Epcot?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4723.jpg

Love these Hidden Mickeys:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4724.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4725.jpg

It was finally time to make our way to a certain spot that I had been planning for our last two trips, but had never found. I was bound and determined on this trip to complete my mission!!

Up Next - It's Fun to Trick the Ones We Love (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32444004&postcount=1207)

[mnkyboy24]

As Carissa said, I think I have missed out on the Disney Magic that happens on most trips. Typically, there is always one child that won't ride this or that, or just by luck of the draw I'm in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was pretty cool to get the First Class Passenger trip on Soarin'. Will have to say it did come at a price a little bit...we almost didn't get to go. Once we sat down Connor got very scared. But once I reassured him the ride was safe, he loved it and said he would ride it again when we visit D-world again.

Chuck

[carissanboys]

As Carissa said, I think I have missed out on the Disney Magic that happens on most trips. Typically, there is always one child that won't ride this or that, or just by luck of the draw I'm in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was pretty cool to get the First Class Passenger trip on Soarin'. Will have to say it did come at a price a little bit...we almost didn't get to go. Once we sat down Connor got very scared. But once I reassured him the ride was safe, he loved it and said he would ride it again when we visit D-world again.

Chuck

Oh yeah - I'd forgotten about that part. Was this Connor's first time riding Soarin'? I can't remember. I think it was. Connor is scared of heights so I can understand his getting nervous about the flight.

He and Sully are constantly talking about going back to Disney World again. Connor said to me tonight, "How about we go back to Disney World tomorrow?" :rotfl: If only!

[mommytothreeboys]

Awww..that's a great story! First Class Passengers....I LOVE IT! SO cool for Chuck to be able to experience that with the boys! :thumbsup2

Your pictures are absolutely beautiful. Nice job!

I didn't know that about the birds...interesting. I guess they're good for something, huh? ;)

Can't wait to see what your big mission is...I'm stumped! popcorn::

[Charleston Princess]

That is super neat that Chuck and Connor got to be a First Class Passengers, Carissa! And what a great certificate for the scrapbook! :laughing:

[carissanboys]

Awww..that's a great story! First Class Passengers....I LOVE IT! SO cool for Chuck to be able to experience that with the boys! :thumbsup2

Your pictures are absolutely beautiful. Nice job!

I didn't know that about the birds...interesting. I guess they're good for something, huh? ;)

Can't wait to see what your big mission is...I'm stumped! popcorn::

You are?? Even with the title teaser?? :rolleyes1

That is super neat that Chuck and Connor got to be a First Class Passengers, Carissa! And what a great certificate for the scrapbook! :laughing:

Owen was with them too. And it would be great for a scrapbook if I ever got around to doing that kind of thing. ;)

[mommytothreeboys]

You are?? Even with the title teaser?? :rolleyes1


OK....totally missed the title teaser! NOW I know where you are going! LOL! :lmao: First timers are the most fun! Can't wait! :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Owen was with them too. And it would be great for a scrapbook if I ever got around to doing that kind of thing. ;)

I couldn't remember if Owen was with you or with Chuck and Connor.

[jmskinner]

Great update. Too cool about being first class passengers. I have never heard of that. Sorry you missed it Carissa.

Oh, and my DH knew exactly what you meant by "bits and bauds".:laughing:

[carissanboys]

OK....totally missed the title teaser! NOW I know where you are going! LOL! :lmao: First timers are the most fun! Can't wait! :goodvibes

:thumbsup2

I couldn't remember if Owen was with you or with Chuck and Connor.

That's okay. I can't remember half the time either. :rotfl:

[carissanboys]

Great update. Too cool about being first class passengers. I have never heard of that. Sorry you missed it Carissa.

Oh, and my DH knew exactly what you meant by "bits and bauds".:laughing:

I had never heard of it either!

:rotfl: I'm sure he did. This whole school thing is kind of ridiculous. He's been in the Navy for 16 years and some of the things he has to deal with - it's like he's back in boot camp. :sad2:

[momrek06]

Great update, Carissa!! You always take such lovely pictures...you have one FAB camera as well.
The quality is :thumbsup2

I would have FREAKED at being First Class Passengers....I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE Soarin'!!! :love: How cool was that for Chuck and the boys!!! :mickeyjum I always ask for FRONT ROW on Soarin' but have only managed to ride F.R. 2x....there is always a 30 minute wait or longer for the F.R. :headache:

Was that an oatmeal/raisin cookie that :stitch2: was enjoying? :laughing:

[Emma's Dad]

Chuck usually misses out on the fun/cool magical stuff that happens to us so I couldn't begrudge him his special pixie dust. There was a small part of me that was hoping he'd pull out a pair of fastpasses that the CM might have given him for his remaining family.

I think this was the first time I got to go through the queue at Soarin' and those pictures on the wall are pretty cool to stare at - for 40 minutes.


Good for Chuck! Bad for you :( I've never sat through the standby queue, so I don't know what that's like!


Love the view in here.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4693.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4720.jpg

Stitch wasn't sure how he felt about this large, scary looking Stitch.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4721.jpg

Hmmm... these look familiar! HAHA!

Love these Hidden Mickeys:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4724.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4725.jpg

HAHA! Those are not quite so hidden. But I wonder what they would look like with these :3dglasses

As Carissa said, I think I have missed out on the Disney Magic that happens on most trips. Typically, there is always one child that won't ride this or that, or just by luck of the draw I'm in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was pretty cool to get the First Class Passenger trip on Soarin'. Will have to say it did come at a price a little bit...we almost didn't get to go. Once we sat down Connor got very scared. But once I reassured him the ride was safe, he loved it and said he would ride it again when we visit D-world again.

Chuck

I'm soooo glad Connor was able to overcome his fear and be able to enjoy such a special treat. That's awesome you were in the right place at the right time!

He and Sully are constantly talking about going back to Disney World again. Connor said to me tonight, "How about we go back to Disney World tomorrow?" :rotfl: If only!

:rotfl2: And all you're thinking is... OK! Let's go!!!! :rotfl2:

[torsie24]

Wow! Great update!! How lovely your guys got such special soarin treatment!! And I looove the photo of Stitch and his cookie!

[jordanyosh]

I never noticed the birdhouses either. Where are they?

[thadarkslayer]

That's so cool with the Soarin' First Class Passenger thing, and I'm really loving Stitch's vacation, too. ;)

[DisMomAmy]

Beautiful Epcot photos! :cloud9:

First class on Soarin'! Wow! Sorry you had to wait in the SB line... but 40 minutes isn't bad for Soarin'! :thumbsup2

I love those bird houses - I've never seen them before either.

Don't leave us hanging for too long - I'm anxious to see where you are going next...

[dismagiclover]

What a great suprise! First Class Passengers:cool1: Bummer you missed it Carissa, but you're doing a great job of hiding your envy:rotfl:

[KathyRN137]

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3024.jpg

Wasn't that cool??

Yeah - it was. Except, Sully and I now had to go wait in the stand by line for 40 minutes. :rolleyes:




Awww! Very cool.... for them! Not for you, however! Ah well, there are always two sides to every coin!

Tell poor Sully that the pictures Mom took were worth the wait... they're gorgeous!

I think I know where you're going... (tee-hee-hee)... was Stitch rubbing off on you a little?? ;)


Kathy

[Goofster57]

Great update Carissa,

How cool about the first class passenger surprise for Chuck and the boys.

I had noticed the birdhouses before but didn't know the reason behind them, that was interesting to find out.

Looking forward to finding out what the "Special" mission is.

[DisneyJo]

Wow how fantastic that they got chosen to be first class passengers on Soarin, that must have been great!

I've never noticed the bird houses either, will have to look next time :thumbsup2

[mrsksomeday]

Great update!! I had never heard about te first class passengers thing either, that is wonderful! I am loving your pictures, they are beautiful.

[liznboys]

That Soarin' certificate is so cute! How cool for them!

Sunshine Seasons is a favorite of ours, love the balloons, love the sunny tables!

Oh, the F&G is just sooooo pretty. Great pictures! I want to go back to it.

lol Sully having his pic taken. Poor kid suffering so.

"Up Next - It's Fun to Trick the Ones We Love" :rotfl: Can't wait to hear what that's all about!

[lisalonglash]

Great updates, Carissa! I'm sorry I haven't posted earlier, the DISboards hate my computer :headache:

I love all the gorgeous F&G pictures - so pretty! How cool is that Soarin' certificate?! :banana: We enjoyed Sunshine Seasons too - I don't remember what I had for lunch, but I do remember that I had key lime pie for dessert; and it was yummalicious! :thumbsup2

[littlezar]

Hi - New to your trip report! The title drew me in (saw your post on mommytothreeboys tr) and then to see military wife, 3 boys and Virginia Beach ~ well, now I have to read it! (Marine Corps wife, 4 boys, Virginia Beach, LOL)

[MRYPPNS]

I'm adding the birdhouses to my list of things I've never seen at Disney!

[shannon47142]

cool birdhouses--I hadn't seen them before either!!
what a great magical moment for the guys!!

[Happydog]

That was a great update!!! I guess that makes sense why you missed eachother!! It must have been fun to have their names called out like that! :goodvibes

[mousescrapper]

Great update yet agian....

love all the pictures. the one of the 2 Stitches made me :rotfl:

You can add me to the list of never seeing the birdhouses, they are pretty cool looking. You have a thing for bids huh?

OK I'm sorry my kids are highly distracted me right now, Aldine just came out of her room saying she is freezing and wearing a hughe fleece sweatshirt....:confused3 :confused: It's like 90 degrees outside girl!

sorry about that,

anyways, the Soarin cert is so cool....that was awesome for the 3-C's :cool1:

bummer for you. riding in the front is so awesome. I must be spoiled I have ridden in the front both times I have ever ridden it. :cool2:

I am so stumped by where you are going next...can't wait to find out!

J-

[hhockman]

That Soarin' pass is really cool. I'm glad your DH and boys were able to experience that (and how cool that he came on here to talk about it!).

I have no idea where you're going next, but it's almost 2am, so I'm not sure I know my name right now either.

Your pictures are gorgeous. I'm taking a digital SLR this time around, so I'm hoping ot get some decent ones.

Can't wait to see the next surprise!

[carissanboys]

Great update, Carissa!! You always take such lovely pictures...you have one FAB camera as well.
The quality is :thumbsup2

I would have FREAKED at being First Class Passengers....I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE Soarin'!!! :love: How cool was that for Chuck and the boys!!! :mickeyjum I always ask for FRONT ROW on Soarin' but have only managed to ride F.R. 2x....there is always a 30 minute wait or longer for the F.R. :headache:

Was that an oatmeal/raisin cookie that :stitch2: was enjoying? :laughing:

Thanks Karen :) I think my pictures are okay, but I think Lady Lallie's are better - I want her camera (and I have it on my wishlist at Amazon :rolleyes1).

Yes, I believe it was! I think all we got for snacks were cookies.

Good for Chuck! Bad for you :( I've never sat through the standby queue, so I don't know what that's like!

Hmmm... these look familiar! HAHA!

HAHA! Those are not quite so hidden. But I wonder what they would look like with these :3dglasses

I'm soooo glad Connor was able to overcome his fear and be able to enjoy such a special treat. That's awesome you were in the right place at the right time!

:rotfl2: And all you're thinking is... OK! Let's go!!!! :rotfl2:

Well, I wouldn't want to go RIGHT now - too hot for me! But, yes - I am starting to get a bit of an itch to go back. Don't tell Chuck that though. ;)

Wow! Great update!! How lovely your guys got such special soarin treatment!! And I looove the photo of Stitch and his cookie!

He's very photogenic, isn't he? ;)

I never noticed the birdhouses either. Where are they?

I believe they were near Test Track, but honestly - I don't remember.

That's so cool with the Soarin' First Class Passenger thing, and I'm really loving Stitch's vacation, too. ;)

He knows how to live it up, doesn't he?

Beautiful Epcot photos! :cloud9:

First class on Soarin'! Wow! Sorry you had to wait in the SB line... but 40 minutes isn't bad for Soarin'! :thumbsup2

I love those bird houses - I've never seen them before either.

Don't leave us hanging for too long - I'm anxious to see where you are going next...

Soarin' is worth the 40 minute wait. :thumbsup2 I'll be posting another installment in a few.

What a great suprise! First Class Passengers:cool1: Bummer you missed it Carissa, but you're doing a great job of hiding your envy:rotfl:

I am, aren't I? :rotfl:

Awww! Very cool.... for them! Not for you, however! Ah well, there are always two sides to every coin!

Tell poor Sully that the pictures Mom took were worth the wait... they're gorgeous!

I think I know where you're going... (tee-hee-hee)... was Stitch rubbing off on you a little?? ;)


Kathy

Thanks Kathy! Or maybe we were rubbing off on Stitch! ;)

[carissanboys]

Great update Carissa,

How cool about the first class passenger surprise for Chuck and the boys.

I had noticed the birdhouses before but didn't know the reason behind them, that was interesting to find out.

Looking forward to finding out what the "Special" mission is.

Do you remember where the birdhouses were?

Wow how fantastic that they got chosen to be first class passengers on Soarin, that must have been great!

I've never noticed the bird houses either, will have to look next time :thumbsup2

I love being able to show new things to my readers! :goodvibes

Great update!! I had never heard about te first class passengers thing either, that is wonderful! I am loving your pictures, they are beautiful.

Thanks Tracy :)

That Soarin' certificate is so cute! How cool for them!

Sunshine Seasons is a favorite of ours, love the balloons, love the sunny tables!

Oh, the F&G is just sooooo pretty. Great pictures! I want to go back to it.

lol Sully having his pic taken. Poor kid suffering so.

"Up Next - It's Fun to Trick the Ones We Love" :rotfl: Can't wait to hear what that's all about!

I can't wait to post the pictures from the next installment.

Great updates, Carissa! I'm sorry I haven't posted earlier, the DISboards hate my computer :headache:

I love all the gorgeous F&G pictures - so pretty! How cool is that Soarin' certificate?! :banana: We enjoyed Sunshine Seasons too - I don't remember what I had for lunch, but I do remember that I had key lime pie for dessert; and it was yummalicious! :thumbsup2

Everyone remembers dessert! :thumbsup2

Hi - New to your trip report! The title drew me in (saw your post on mommytothreeboys tr) and then to see military wife, 3 boys and Virginia Beach ~ well, now I have to read it! (Marine Corps wife, 4 boys, Virginia Beach, LOL)

Well, then, an extra special :welcome: for you! How long have you lived in the area?

I'm adding the birdhouses to my list of things I've never seen at Disney!

We'll start a new thread here on the Dis for posting birdhouse pictures. ;)

cool birdhouses--I hadn't seen them before either!!
what a great magical moment for the guys!!

Yes it was. :)

That was a great update!!! I guess that makes sense why you missed eachother!! It must have been fun to have their names called out like that! :goodvibes

I wish there had been pictures!

Great update yet agian....

love all the pictures. the one of the 2 Stitches made me :rotfl:

You can add me to the list of never seeing the birdhouses, they are pretty cool looking. You have a thing for bids huh?

OK I'm sorry my kids are highly distracted me right now, Aldine just came out of her room saying she is freezing and wearing a hughe fleece sweatshirt....:confused3 :confused: It's like 90 degrees outside girl!

sorry about that,

anyways, the Soarin cert is so cool....that was awesome for the 3-C's :cool1:

bummer for you. riding in the front is so awesome. I must be spoiled I have ridden in the front both times I have ever ridden it. :cool2:

I am so stumped by where you are going next...can't wait to find out!

J-

Don't know that I have a thing for birds, but our whole family are nature lovers. :thumbsup2 Not a fan of "pet" birds like parakeets though. They freak me out when they get out of their cages.

I've been in the front row on Soarin' a couple of times.

That Soarin' pass is really cool. I'm glad your DH and boys were able to experience that (and how cool that he came on here to talk about it!).

I have no idea where you're going next, but it's almost 2am, so I'm not sure I know my name right now either.

Your pictures are gorgeous. I'm taking a digital SLR this time around, so I'm hoping ot get some decent ones.

Can't wait to see the next surprise!

Chuck will pop on here and there to give his commentary. ;)

The digital SLR is kind of a pain to lug around, but the payoff is worth it. I do think my smaller/cheaper camera does a pretty decent job and it takes video so it's nice to have both.

[carissanboys]

I was on a mission!! Spending countless hours on the Dis reading trip reports had introduced me to a little something called...




BEVERLY



When I was researching our very first trip, I had written down a note with just that one word, "beverly" to remind myself about it. I had laughed so many times while looking through pictures of unsuspecting people taking their first sip of the infamous Bev. Their faces were all distorted in horror as their tastebuds met this new flavor, expecting a sweet soda and instead getting - well - Beverly! They looked back at their loved ones as if to say, "How could you do this to me??" All the while their so called loved one is snickering and busily snapping away with the camera so that such pictures could be shared with others for their amusement. I mean - really! What a mean thing to do to the people you love!



And I couldn't wait to try it on my own family!!

During our first two trips I wasn't able to locate Club Cool. I probably didn't look all that hard since we were so busy with everything else. The Beverly trick wasn't top on my list of priorities. This trip was a different story. This was a trip to see and do all of those things we hadn't got around to doing before. I made sure I knew where to find Club Cool before we left on our trip.

And that's where we were headed.

Finally! Success! We headed inside and I got my camera all ready. Then I told Chuck and Sully to go try Beverly.

Me: I've heard it's really good!! (said with a somewhat straight face)

Chuck: Okay

Sully: Okay

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4698.jpg

Wait for it...

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4699.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4700.jpg

There's the money shot!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4701.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4702.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4703.jpg

Can it really be that bad if Sully goes for another sip??

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4704.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4706.jpg

Now, I tried Beverly myself. And I really didn't think it was that bad. Tasted like grapefruit juice to me. The one thing I will say about the drink is that it has a long aftertaste. I think the slogan for Beverly should be: The taste that keeps on giving!

My favorite of the sodas was Costa Rica. Yummy!

With my mission complete, it was time to move on. We were headed to the World Showcase.

This was really neat to see:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4707.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4708.jpg

Not quite sure about this one...

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4709.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4710.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4711.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4712.jpg

A little cooling off:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4715.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4713.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4714.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4729.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4728.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4730.jpg

Why didn't I stop and get fastpasses for this while we were here? *kicking myself* (yes, that's foreboding)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4726.jpg

And as we first entered WS:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4733.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4734.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4732.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4731.jpg

Up Next - How Did We Get to British Columbia? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32561427&postcount=1253)

[mommytothreeboys]

Awesome Beverly pics...Chuck's face is priceless! Good job! :thumbsup2 My boys LOVE Club Cool. I think we went in there 3-4 times.

I love the boys' Phineas and Ferb T-shirts. My boys are really into Phineas and Ferb these days. I tried to get Jonah a t-shirt before we went on our trip, but couldn't get one in his size. They're really cute! And playing in the cool misting area...too fun! They look like they are really enjoying themselves!

Uh-oh...sounds like some KimPossible trouble. :rolleyes:

[Charleston Princess]

I laughed out loud over the pics of Chuck and Sully trying Beverly! Those are too funny! :lmao:

Ah, the Kim Possible Adventure! There is no love lost for that thing with me. :rolleyes1

[mrsksomeday]

:lmao:The Beverly shot was priceless, I am so wanting to do this to my son in November. Great pictures of Epcot, I could look at Epcot pictures all day long. Oh no on the foreboding about Kim Possible :eek:.

[shannon47142]

:rotfl:for the club cool shots:lmao:

[torsie24]

The taste that keeps on giving!

:lmao: :rotfl: :lmao:

I love it!!!!!

Awesome photos too!!!!!!!!

[Kirby]

I needed a laugh today. Thanks for the photos!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:lmao: I love when people get tricked into drinking the Beverly. They didn't suspect anything when you pulled out the camera to take pictures?

[Must C Mickey]

Loving your trip report and what a cute family you have! I too love the Beverly trick. we pulled it this yr on my niece and nephew. my husband almost ruined it b/c he was getting ready to warn them NOT to drink the Beverly soda when i squeezed his hand gave him a wide eyed look. The expression on their face after they tried it was priceless!

[jmskinner]

:rotfl2::lmao:BEVERLY!!!:rotfl2::lmao:

Great shots. Now why didn't I think of that when you mentioned a surprise.

I am sitting here wondering if my BFF and her family have tried the Beverly, just might have to get them. Do you remember Jacob's pics, and it wasn't even the Beverly.:sad2:

[littlezar]

LOVE the Beverly shots! Hysterical!! Sand animals are really cool.

We've been in VB a year this month. Prior to this we were in Camp Lejeune and after this, we'll probably be heading back there! I'm sure you've already found that we have a Disney Store in Lynnhaven Mall!

[Emma's Dad]

I believe the birdhouses are located right behind Innoventions East closer to Test Track. Currently, the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden is located next to the area. Here is a picture of one birdhouse from Allears taken in 2004:

http://allears.net/tp/ep/fg04/fg04_20.jpg

I remember watching the birds going in and out of the birdhouses, but I didn't take any pictures. I remember thinking... "they're just birdhouses... why would I take a picture of them?" :lmao:

Oh... here's another picture that might help place them:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/2399411717_f28990180c.jpg%3Fv%3D0

[hhockman]

Great pictures of your boys trying Beverly. Might very well have to pull that on my boys this time. :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

So what happened with Kim Possible? :confused3

[dismagiclover]

Oh that Beverly Shot of Chuck is just classic:lmao: Those are the moments that make life worth living:rotfl2:

[MagicShell]

What a great Soarin' experience for SOME of your family. At least you got one of them back with the Beverly.:rotfl:

[lisalonglash]

There's the money shot!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4701.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4703.jpg

That's awesome! :rotfl2: I did the same thing to my dh and my boys - but I didn't have the camera out because dh would've caught on for sure :laughing:

Can it really be that bad if Sully goes for another sip??

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4704.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4706.jpg

There's some determination :lmao:

Now, I tried Beverly myself. And I really didn't think it was that bad. Tasted like grapefruit juice to me. The one thing I will say about the drink is that it has a long aftertaste. I think the slogan for Beverly should be: The taste that keeps on giving!

That's what they should definitely market Beverly as :rotfl:

Why didn't I stop and get fastpasses for this while we were here? *kicking myself* (yes, that's foreboding)

Uh oh :scared:

Up Next - How Did We Get to British Columbia?

Dunno, but you should have come to visit us if you were in BC! :goodvibes :rotfl2:

[liznboys]

Oh my, the beverly shots are sooooo funny! :rotfl: I LOVE how Sully took another sip!!!! LMBO And I love: "The taste that keeps on giving!" :rotfl::rotfl:

Ok you're cracking me up with this installment...the polar bear picture "Not quite sure about this one..." :rotfl: I agree!

Those sand sculptures are so cool though.

Can't get enough of the F&G Festival pictures!! :goodvibes

[mousescrapper]

Chuck's face... :lmao:

you pulled a good one Carissa!

I have to try those drinks in Club Cool....too, but luckily know not to try the infamous Beverly ;)

[Goofster57]

Do you remember where the birdhouses were?


The ones I rememebr where over by Test Track in a little grassy are next to the restrooms.

[Goofster57]

Nice update Carissa,

I'm with you, I didn't think Beverly was all that bad, but the aftertaste did stay with you for a while...Anyone got some Altoids?

The Earth sand sculpture looked great, I too was wondering what that one bear was doing?...Just sayin...

[MeMom]

[COLOR="Blue"] I was on a mission!! Spending countless hours on the Dis reading trip reports had introduced me to a little something called...



A little cooling off:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4713.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4714.jpg


COLOR]

These are my favorites. Kids love the misters, and you can easily see how much fun they provide here. Permission to get wet in your clothes is so cool to a kid!

[Sandy321]

I'm spoiled - where's the next clickable link??

Love the report! Congrats on the move!

Hope all is well!

[jordanyosh]

There's the money shot!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4701.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4702.jpg



:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

[mnkyboy24]

Beverly is evil. The only thing I can equate that nasty aftertaste I couldn't get out of my mouth is it tastes like is like really strong stamp paste, from when "back in the day" you still had to lick your own stamps. Gahhhhhhh! Thank you Carissa for catching me at my most handsome...looks like I had some sunburn going on too!

[DisMomAmy]

There's the money shot!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4701.jpg



:rotfl::lmao::rotfl2:

[Happydog]

That was a fun update!!! I have heard about "Beverly" too!! I don't trust myself, gak!:crazy2:

[KathyRN137]

:laughing: Oh Carissa, you really pulled it off!! :laughing:

I'm debating on whether I could put one over on Ed... I don't think I could keep a straight face, though!

Kathy

[Kirby]

I pulled the trick on my family back in 2002. I had always heard about Beverly but it was our first time to go into Ice Station Cool. Is that it's name? Anyway, I let the others go first. I had so much fun! I tried it too just to be able to say that I did. I will say that it reminded me of cough medicine.

[descamilla]

My DW and I have enjoyed your the TR so far.

But I haven't shown her your latest installment since I want her to experience "Beverly" totally unawares. She is already suspicious of my antics at WDW... so I'm going to have to practice my straight face (and surrepticious photo taking) before we leave for Disney in October.


AKL CL - October 6-11, 2009

[cjackearl]

Good job, Sneaky Mom Carissa!:thumbsup2 I got my daughters, but my husband liked it.:confused3 He also likes super hot hot sauce, though, so I think he may be missing a few taste buds.:laughing:

[lazydoxy66]

This last update was so funny. I can't believe you did that to your loved ones! I'm glad you shared it with us though. :thumbsup2 I thought that maybe my taste buds were abnormal because I didn't think that the Beverly was all that bad either.

[carissanboys]

Awesome Beverly pics...Chuck's face is priceless! Good job! :thumbsup2 My boys LOVE Club Cool. I think we went in there 3-4 times.

I love the boys' Phineas and Ferb T-shirts. My boys are really into Phineas and Ferb these days. I tried to get Jonah a t-shirt before we went on our trip, but couldn't get one in his size. They're really cute! And playing in the cool misting area...too fun! They look like they are really enjoying themselves!

Uh-oh...sounds like some KimPossible trouble. :rolleyes:

Thanks Missy. I love their shirts too - even more because they only cost $3!

I laughed out loud over the pics of Chuck and Sully trying Beverly! Those are too funny! :lmao:

Ah, the Kim Possible Adventure! There is no love lost for that thing with me. :rolleyes1

I'll be interested to read about your experience in your TR. :thumbsup2

:lmao:The Beverly shot was priceless, I am so wanting to do this to my son in November. Great pictures of Epcot, I could look at Epcot pictures all day long. Oh no on the foreboding about Kim Possible :eek:.

Thanks Tracy! I still need to get caught up on your PTR - just so busy these days.

:rotfl:for the club cool shots:lmao:

;)

:lmao: :rotfl: :lmao:

I love it!!!!!

Awesome photos too!!!!!!!!

Thanks!

I needed a laugh today. Thanks for the photos!

Glad I could help. :goodvibes

:lmao: I love when people get tricked into drinking the Beverly. They didn't suspect anything when you pulled out the camera to take pictures?

Not sure. They're use to me taking pictures of everything so probably not. :rotfl:

Loving your trip report and what a cute family you have! I too love the Beverly trick. we pulled it this yr on my niece and nephew. my husband almost ruined it b/c he was getting ready to warn them NOT to drink the Beverly soda when i squeezed his hand gave him a wide eyed look. The expression on their face after they tried it was priceless!

:welcome: Thank you! It cracked me up imagining you giving your husband a look and trying to translate for him not to say anything. :rotfl:

[carissanboys]

:lmao:BEVERLY!!!:rotfl2::lmao:

Great shots. Now why didn't I think of that when you mentioned a surprise.

I am sitting here wondering if my BFF and her family have tried the Beverly, just might have to get them. Do you remember Jacob's pics, and it wasn't even the Beverly.

Yes I do! :rotfl:

LOVE the Beverly shots! Hysterical!! Sand animals are really cool.

We've been in VB a year this month. Prior to this we were in Camp Lejeune and after this, we'll probably be heading back there! I'm sure you've already found that we have a Disney Store in Lynnhaven Mall!

Yes I have! :thumbsup2

I believe the birdhouses are located right behind Innoventions East closer to Test Track. Currently, the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden is located next to the area. Here is a picture of one birdhouse from Allears taken in 2004:

http://allears.net/tp/ep/fg04/fg04_20.jpg

I remember watching the birds going in and out of the birdhouses, but I didn't take any pictures. I remember thinking... "they're just birdhouses... why would I take a picture of them?" :lmao:

Hey! :mad:

Obviously - taking a picture to share with everyone was a cool thing to do because so many have never noticed them. And now you will see lots of people at WDW looking up, searching for bird houses. ;)

Thanks - that is where I saw them. :thumbsup2

Great pictures of your boys trying Beverly. Might very well have to pull that on my boys this time. :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

So what happened with Kim Possible? :confused3

That'll come up a bit later. ;)

Oh that Beverly Shot of Chuck is just classic:lmao: Those are the moments that make life worth living:rotfl2:

:rotfl: That they are.

What a great Soarin' experience for SOME of your family. At least you got one of them back with the Beverly.:rotfl:

:lmao:

That's awesome! :rotfl2: I did the same thing to my dh and my boys - but I didn't have the camera out because dh would've caught on for sure :laughing:

Dunno, but you should have come to visit us if you were in BC! :goodvibes :rotfl2:

Well, it was just a section of BC and we had limited time. ;)

[carissanboys]

Oh my, the beverly shots are sooooo funny! :rotfl: I LOVE how Sully took another sip!!!! LMBO And I love: "The taste that keeps on giving!" :rotfl::rotfl:

Ok you're cracking me up with this installment...the polar bear picture "Not quite sure about this one..." :rotfl: I agree!

Those sand sculptures are so cool though.

Can't get enough of the F&G Festival pictures!! :goodvibes

Glad someone else was a bit unsure about that bear! ;)

Chuck's face... :lmao:

you pulled a good one Carissa!

I have to try those drinks in Club Cool....too, but luckily know not to try the infamous Beverly ;)

Everyone should try it at least once!

Nice update Carissa,

I'm with you, I didn't think Beverly was all that bad, but the aftertaste did stay with you for a while...Anyone got some Altoids?

The Earth sand sculpture looked great, I too was wondering what that one bear was doing?...Just sayin...

I know, right? :rolleyes1

These are my favorites. Kids love the misters, and you can easily see how much fun they provide here. Permission to get wet in your clothes is so cool to a kid!

I love Owen's face in those pictures. The misters are great because they to cool off a bit, but they really don't get that wet.

I'm spoiled - where's the next clickable link??

Love the report! Congrats on the move!

Hope all is well!

:welcome: Glad to have you along! And thanks. :)

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

;)

Beverly is evil. The only thing I can equate that nasty aftertaste I couldn't get out of my mouth is it tastes like is like really strong stamp paste, from when "back in the day" you still had to lick your own stamps. Gahhhhhhh! Thank you Carissa for catching me at my most handsome...looks like I had some sunburn going on too!

It really wasn't that bad. :rolleyes:

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl2:

:thumbsup2

That was a fun update!!! I have heard about "Beverly" too!! I don't trust myself, gak!:crazy2:

:rotfl:

[carissanboys]

:laughing: Oh Carissa, you really pulled it off!! :laughing:

I'm debating on whether I could put one over on Ed... I don't think I could keep a straight face, though!

Kathy

I think you could pull it off Kathy. :thumbsup2

I pulled the trick on my family back in 2002. I had always heard about Beverly but it was our first time to go into Ice Station Cool. Is that it's name? Anyway, I let the others go first. I had so much fun! I tried it too just to be able to say that I did. I will say that it reminded me of cough medicine.

Club Cool is so much fun!

My DW and I have enjoyed your the TR so far.

But I haven't shown her your latest installment since I want her to experience "Beverly" totally unawares. She is already suspicious of my antics at WDW... so I'm going to have to practice my straight face (and surrepticious photo taking) before we leave for Disney in October.


AKL CL - October 6-11, 2009

:welcome: Glad to have you both reading. :) Good luck tricking her. ;)

Good job, Sneaky Mom Carissa!:thumbsup2 I got my daughters, but my husband liked it.:confused3 He also likes super hot hot sauce, though, so I think he may be missing a few taste buds.:laughing:

Things taste differently to everyone. ;)

This last update was so funny. I can't believe you did that to your loved ones! I'm glad you shared it with us though. :thumbsup2 I thought that maybe my taste buds were abnormal because I didn't think that the Beverly was all that bad either.

Glad to have someone else think it wasn't that bad. :thumbsup2

[micandminforever]

I am enjoying your report and I love the pictures.

[carissanboys]

I am enjoying your report and I love the pictures.

Thanks! :goodvibes

[Angies1274]

I'm really enjoying your trip report!!:goodvibes Your last update was so funny.:rotfl: Great pictures!!! I wish I would have thought to take a picture of my DH when we went last year and I did the same thing. It was too funny.:lmao: You have such a cute family--I can't wait to read more....popcorn::

[LaurenMic]

The shots of Chuck and the Beverly are the best ones I've ever seen I think!! Too funny. I fell in love with apple flavored one this past trip, I think it is from Mexico. Mmm I could so go for that right now. Glad you found Club Cool!

[irene_dsc]

I had a feeling you were hinting about Beverly earlier - for once I was right! Those are great shots - you done good. :) We didn't visit Club Cool when we were there since we had visited the Coca-Cola museum (or whatever they call it) in Atlanta a few years ago, and sampled several of the international flavors there. I don't remember seeing the Beverly there - but that was before I discovered the Disboards, of course.

I'll pm you when I have a chance, about homeschool possibilities. It's still very much up in the air at the moment, fwiw.

[eandesmom]

Oh the beverly shot is priceless. We didn't make it there this trip and none of the gang have a clue. I will have to remedy that next time!

[DisneyJo]

You wicked woman you tricking your loved ones into trying Beverly, fantastic though :rotfl:

[DisneyMomLiz]

Hmm...all this talk about Beverly. I can't believe I haven't made it to Club Cool (is that what it's called?) in all my trips to the World?! :confused3 I'll definitely have to try and find it this time and see if I can "surprise" my DH. :rotfl:

[Ms. Heimlich]

I laughed out loud at your Beverly pics... tooooo funny!!

I am enjoying your report and it really looks like you had a great time! I would love to celebrate my b-day at WDW but, alas, it falls WAY to close to spring break and it scares me!:scared1:

Glad you had a great b-day!!:bday:

Keep the report goin'!

Ms. H