What's the Big Deal With Staying On Property Anyway? *Goodbyes* 12/17 p.114 [Archive] - Page 6 - The DIS Discussion Forums

carissanboys

07-01-2009, 06:39 AM

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::

Thank you :goodvibes

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!

Thanks - he's been a good sport about me sharing his pictures with everyone. ;)

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.

Okay - good luck!

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!

Yes you will! :thumbsup2

You wicked woman you tricking your loved ones into trying Beverly, fantastic though :rotfl:

:rolleyes1

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:

Yes - Club Cool. And what a pleasant suprise it will be. ;)

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

Thanks Ms. H! :goodvibes

Those shots of Chuck are some of the best I've seen!:lmao::lmao:

It's so fun to get someone to try it for the first time.:rotfl2:

I was so excited to finally get those pictures! :rotfl:

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

I'll try to get an update posted soon. We've started school this week so things are a bit busier than usual. I've also been trying to post a blog entry every day so my spare writing time has been taken up with that. And still trying to stay on top of TRs and PTRs! I should have some down time this weekend. :thumbsup2

carissanboys

07-04-2009, 05:40 PM

We had just entered the World Showcase and I was taking pictures of topiaries.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4735.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4752.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4753.jpg

And then we spotted this really cool play area. Had to stop and let the kids play, of course.

I took pictures. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4740.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4741.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4744.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4736.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4745.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4750.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4751.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4747.jpg

After letting out some of the sillies, we walked on to Canada - home to some of my ancestors.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4764.jpg

It's so gorgeous around here. I don't think I really saw this area the last two times we visited.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4765.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4768.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4769.jpg

The boys got their masks and began decorating. They said that they wanted to go to every Kidcot station in each country this year. Of course - this was said at the start of the day before they got really tired of walking in the heat.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4771.jpg

Speaking of the heat, this was probably the hottest, most humid day we had during our park days. Thankfully, it was mostly cloudy so it wasn't too horrible.

Then it was time for lunch. And do you know where our lunch was to be??

Le Cellier, baby!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4766.jpg

We checked in at the podium and only had to wait a few minutes before we were seated. I had heard so many great things about this place. We were very excited to try it out.

Our waitress arrived and told us that we were seated in British Columbia and by chance, she was also from BC! I took time to look around while we waited for our bread to arrive.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4777.jpg

I definitey understand why everyone loves the pretzel bread. Didn't really care for the others. Stitch concurred.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4773.jpg

Chuck and I both ordered the mushroom filet with risotto.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4775.jpg

Chuck thought his was amazing. I enjoyed mine and thought it was very tender and flavorful, but I still thought my steak at Kona's was better.

We talked Sully into getting the cheese soup and he let us have some. Yumm-O! It was delicious, but I could see getting a bit overwhelmed with the taste after a small amount. It's very rich.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4772.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4776.jpg

We saved some room for dessert (barely). Chuck ordered the maple creme brulee.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4778.jpg

And I ordered the crumble with maple ice cream - I think that's what it's called?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4779.jpg

It was okay. Definitely not as tasty as I got towards the bottom and ran out of ice cream. Overall, I'd say our meal at Le Cellier was good. But, I probably wouldn't return. We bid farewell to British Columbia and headed off.

Up Next - A HUGE Disappointment and Pooh is Caught Flirting. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32661546&postcount=1296)

dismagiclover

07-04-2009, 06:30 PM

jmskinner

07-04-2009, 07:49 PM

Another great update. :thumbsup2That playground was great. I wish they would have left it.

Le Cellier is on our list of to do's, but have ressie's for Kona first. Hopefully I will be able to compare one day ourselves.

KathyRN137

07-04-2009, 11:58 PM

It's so gorgeous around here. I don't think I really saw this area the last two times we visited.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4765.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4768.jpg

Wow... just beautiful!! I don't recall ever seeing that area either... we'll have to see it in November!

And I'm yet another DISer who had yet to eat at LeCellier! :blush: That steak does look yummy!

I never quite envisioned Pooh Bear as a flirt.... :laughing:

Kathy

irene_dsc

07-05-2009, 12:33 AM

Ooh - that playground looks really cool! Still loving the topiaries, too. And somehow we missed all of Canada - I'll have to check it out next time.

I'm also wondering about a flirting Pooh...

MeMom

07-05-2009, 06:51 AM

That landscaping is some of the best, I think. It's so pretty and peaceful there.

We used the cheese soup as a dip for our breadsticks. Pretzel bread dipped in cheese soup is so good!

Le Cellier is a must repeat for me, because when we went, I was not hungry at all. I did not appreciate it like I really wanted to, and there was no way I was paying for dessert, as much as I had longed for the creme brulee! I couldn't justify buying dessert when I couldn't even finish a third of my meal. I have said many times over that I am going back there very hungry next time!

I appreciate the Kidcot stops and the play areas. It's nice that in the midst of thrill rides and shows and high-tech gadgets and run run run that kids can just sit down and color or hang upside down on some pretty cool climbing apparatus. :)

I hope you and the boys had/are having a good holiday weekend!

Angies1274

07-05-2009, 07:10 AM

Great update:thumbsup2 The landscape pictures are just beautiful!!! It looks like your boys had a fun time on the playground.:goodvibes My boys enjoyed it as well when we were there. (and it was a nice place for DH and I to relax while we watched them play;)) Le Cellier pics are making me hungry.....we have actually never been but it's very high on our must-do list!!! Thanks for sharing--I can't wait for more.......

DisMomAmy

07-05-2009, 08:15 AM

Hi Carissa!! I don't know how, but we missed that playground area. :confused3 I guess I had read about it in the F&G Festival brochure but we just never made it over that way. :headache: Oh well...

However, we did make it to LeCellier!! Sorry you just thought it was OK... I've been there twice and loved it. But I suspect DH might say it was just "good" because I probably hyped it up way too much. The other time I was there was without him... and he has always wanted to go there since our pre-kids visit. I'm sure it was a let down after all the build up and waiting. That pretzel bread is definitely great!! There was one restaurant during our last visit that ranks higher than LeCellier for me though...

Can't wait for more...

Charleston Princess

07-05-2009, 08:18 AM

The gardens in Canada are just gorgeous! :lovestruc

Le Cellier is one of those places we are always meaning to try, but have never managed to get there. Your lunch looks quite tasty though!

carissanboys

07-05-2009, 03:15 PM

Love all the pictures of the toparies. I really have to go sometime during the Flower & Garden Festival. So, Le Cellier didn't wow you. We ate there and I really liked the pretzel bread, the soup and Maple Creme Brulee. The steak was good too, but if we go back I think I'll just get the soup, breadsticks and maybe a small salad. It was way too much food for us.

It definitely wasn't a bad experience and I enjoyed our time there. I didn't like how close the tables were. I like my space. ;)

Another great update. :thumbsup2That playground was great. I wish they would have left it.

Le Cellier is on our list of to do's, but have ressie's for Kona first. Hopefully I will be able to compare one day ourselves.

I hope you're able to as well! I liked the atmosphere and service at Le Cellier more, but the food won my heart at Kona.

Wow... just beautiful!! I don't recall ever seeing that area either... we'll have to see it in November!

And I'm yet another DISer who had yet to eat at LeCellier! :blush: That steak does look yummy!

I never quite envisioned Pooh Bear as a flirt.... :laughing:

Kathy

Who knew, eh? :rolleyes1

Ooh - that playground looks really cool! Still loving the topiaries, too. And somehow we missed all of Canada - I'll have to check it out next time.

I'm also wondering about a flirting Pooh...

We've seen quite a bit of Canada, but still haven't seen the movie. I have a whole list of things I want to do if I ever get to go to WDW without the kids (or when they're older).

That landscaping is some of the best, I think. It's so pretty and peaceful there.

We used the cheese soup as a dip for our breadsticks. Pretzel bread dipped in cheese soup is so good!

Le Cellier is a must repeat for me, because when we went, I was not hungry at all. I did not appreciate it like I really wanted to, and there was no way I was paying for dessert, as much as I had longed for the creme brulee! I couldn't justify buying dessert when I couldn't even finish a third of my meal. I have said many times over that I am going back there very hungry next time!

I appreciate the Kidcot stops and the play areas. It's nice that in the midst of thrill rides and shows and high-tech gadgets and run run run that kids can just sit down and color or hang upside down on some pretty cool climbing apparatus. :)

I hope you and the boys had/are having a good holiday weekend!

I definitely think you should go back to Le Cellier. It was a very good meal. And I agree about the Kidcot stops. Sometimes it helps gives the children a reason to push on through the World when they're hot and tired! :rotfl:

Great update:thumbsup2 The landscape pictures are just beautiful!!! It looks like your boys had a fun time on the playground.:goodvibes My boys enjoyed it as well when we were there. (and it was a nice place for DH and I to relax while we watched them play;)) Le Cellier pics are making me hungry.....we have actually never been but it's very high on our must-do list!!! Thanks for sharing--I can't wait for more.......

Glad you're enjoying. :goodvibes And I see that you have a TR. I'm usually very good about getting over to read everyone's TR or PTR who takes the time to read mine so I'm feeling a bit guilty that I haven't gotten a chance to stop by yours. My life is so busy right now! I will get there eventually. :flower3:

Hi Carissa!! I don't know how, but we missed that playground area. :confused3 I guess I had read about it in the F&G Festival brochure but we just never made it over that way. :headache: Oh well...

However, we did make it to LeCellier!! Sorry you just thought it was OK... I've been there twice and loved it. But I suspect DH might say it was just "good" because I probably hyped it up way too much. The other time I was there was without him... and he has always wanted to go there since our pre-kids visit. I'm sure it was a let down after all the build up and waiting. That pretzel bread is definitely great!! There was one restaurant during our last visit that ranks higher than LeCellier for me though...

Can't wait for more...

Le Cellier was very good and I can't say it disappointed or anything. There are just so many great restaurants at WDW to try that unless there's something super special about it for me, it doesn't get a return visit. I'm glad I got to try and maybe someday in the future when I've exhausted all of the other ones I want to try I'll be back. :)

I can't wait to hear which one ranked first on your list!

The gardens in Canada are just gorgeous! :lovestruc

Le Cellier is one of those places we are always meaning to try, but have never managed to get there. Your lunch looks quite tasty though!

It was!

carissanboys

07-05-2009, 03:23 PM

I thought I'd interrupt the trip report for some fun Disney shopping. Since we won't be going back for who knows how long, I have to indulge my Disney cravings somehow.

Chuck - if you're reading this - please send your complaints about me spending money to KathyRN since she's the one who posted pictures on her PTR and made me go buy some stuff. :rolleyes1

Check out these cute plates and serving tray!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture290.jpg

Most of the plates were kind of girly and with a house full of boys, that just wouldn't do. But, I love these blue Mickey ones! And - they were only $1.37 each (75% off)!!! The serving tray was $4.87.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture292.jpg

I spotted this Stitch Rashguard shirt in Sully's size (the only 8-10 they had left) and picked it up since we don't have any that fit him anymore. It was on sale for $5.99.

And I fell in love with these beach towels, which were marked down to $6.99. They're big, thick, and oh so soft!!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture291.jpg

We got Mickey, Wall-E, and Power Rangers. We also got 3 beach balls marked down to $1.80 each.

And to put everything in, I purchased this great Mickey bag for $2.50. It's like your cloth bags for groceries, but bigger. The cashier called it a "beach bag" and it will be perfect for that.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture289.jpg

So - there you go. I have done my part to help stimulate the economy. Go forth and spend! ;)

hhockman

07-05-2009, 07:24 PM

eandesmom

07-05-2009, 07:34 PM

I''m with you on the food at Kona I :love: their food!

I'd like to go to LeCellier but I'll also live if I don't :)

Great pictures and I love your shopping haul! Especially the rash guard, that's a great deal!

mousescrapper

07-05-2009, 07:36 PM

BC-Canada...

we missed Canada on our tour due to rain....haven't really lookd around much since 05, so your pictures were a treat, and I didn't see the Timon topiary, very cool!

We have not eaten at LC either....I'm not big on steak, though DH is. maybe one to do for the anni trip in 2011 :confused3

I love pretzel bread too, especially a snadwich on a pretzel roll...so I guess that would be one reason for me to go. Though I'd have to eaten a whole package of Lactaid before eating the cheese soup...:sick: I love the stuff, but it doesn't love me anymore :sad2:

To the shopping loot...a sale at DISNEY!!!! so dangerous :rolleyes1

great buys :thumbsup2

cjackearl

07-05-2009, 07:45 PM

LeCelier was one of our more memorable meals of our trip. The food was good but the server really made the meal for us. He was truly outstanding. Our food at Kona was outstanding, although our server was fine, nothing special. The landscaping around the Canadian pavillion is so beautiful. I just love the stone cottage.

That Kathy, she's an enabler, but what great stuff you got!

Charleston Princess

07-05-2009, 08:45 PM

Between you and Kathy, I am going to have to go stimulate the economy, too! :laughing:

LaurenMic

07-05-2009, 09:32 PM

Great updates as usual Carissa!! The pics of the cheese soup and pretzel bread are making me hungry. But I agree, that soup is super rich, couldn't finish it!

Wow, you got some awesome deals! Cute stuff, I especially love those towels :thumbsup2

lisalonglash

07-05-2009, 09:55 PM

And then we spotted this really cool play area. Had to stop and let the kids play, of course.

Great pictures! Your boys are so handsome pirate:

After letting out some of the sillies, we walked on to Canada - home to some of my ancestors.

Letting out some of the sillies is a necessity for my boys too - absolutely vital! :thumbsup2

Our waitress arrived and told us that we were seated in British Columbia and by chance, she was also from BC! I took time to look around while we waited for our bread to arrive.

In BC and, yet, no waving to us! :rotfl2:

We talked Sully into getting the cheese soup and he let us have some. Yumm-O! It was delicious, but I could see getting a bit overwhelmed with the taste after a small amount. It's very rich.

We tried the cheese soup during the F&WF last year. It was good, but frankly, there's a restaurant near us that makes it just as well (not to mention it's way cheaper LOL).

I'm probably not entitled to an opinion about Le Cellier, as we've never eaten there, but a Canadian steakhouse just doesn't even register on our dining radar. We tend to try to go to places that have food we don't normally have readily available at home kwim? I must admit that the steak and risotto look quite tasty, though! :goodvibes

It was okay. Definitely not as tasty as I got towards the bottom and ran out of ice cream. Overall, I'd say our meal at Le Cellier was good. But, I probably wouldn't return. We bid farewell to British Columbia and headed off.

We British Columbians bid you a fond adieu :flower3:

Up Next - A HUGE disappointment and Pooh is caught flirting.

Uh oh, that doesn't sound good! :scared:

lisalonglash

07-05-2009, 10:01 PM

I thought I'd interrupt the trip report for some fun Disney shopping. Since we won't be going back for who knows how long, I have to indulge my Disney cravings somehow.

Oooh, I love seeing shopping pictures! :yay:

Chuck - if you're reading this - please send your complaints about me spending money to KathyRN since she's the one who posted pictures on her PTR and made me go buy some stuff. :rolleyes1

:rotfl2:

Check out these cute plates and serving tray!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture290.jpg

Adorable - love them!

Most of the plates were kind of girly and with a house full of boys, that just wouldn't do. But, I love these blue Mickey ones! And - they were only $1.37 each (75% off)!!! The serving tray was $4.87.

That is some super pricing! :thumbsup2

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture292.jpg

I spotted this Stitch Rashguard shirt in Sully's size (the only 8-10 they had left) and picked it up since we don't have any that fit him anymore. It was on sale for $5.99.

That's an awesome-looking shirt and another great price! What exactly does a rashguard shirt do anyway? I've seen them, but never looked into their purpose :confused3

And I fell in love with these beach towels, which were marked down to $6.99. They're big, thick, and oh so soft!!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture291.jpg

More great pricing! You're my new shopping hero! :worship:

And to put everything in, I purchased this great Mickey bag for $2.50. It's like your cloth bags for groceries, but bigger. The cashier called it a "beach bag" and it will be perfect for that.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture289.jpg

That is THE happiest bag I've ever seen! How could you not have a smile on your face toting that around! :goodvibes

So - there you go. I have done my part to help stimulate the economy. Go forth and spend! ;)

:rotfl:

KathyRN137

07-05-2009, 10:54 PM

dismagiclover

07-06-2009, 07:14 AM

And to put everything in, I purchased this great Mickey bag for $2.50. It's like your cloth bags for groceries, but bigger. The cashier called it a "beach bag" and it will be perfect for that.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture289.jpg

So - there you go. I have done my part to help stimulate the economy. Go forth and spend! ;)

I have the same bag and just love it:thumbsup2

DisneyJo

07-06-2009, 08:16 AM

I have the same opinion on Le Cellier as you, my steak was much nicer at Kona and we won't be hurrying back!

I love all your purchases and wow you got some bargains :thumbsup2

wvdislover

07-06-2009, 12:25 PM

LOVE the new Disney stuff!!! :cool1: Where EVER did you get it? Disney store, Disneyshopping online, or some other great store with Disney stuff? Such great prices...surely Chuck won't mind :rolleyes:

carissanboys

07-06-2009, 01:25 PM

Great update! I love all of the pictures. It's been a long time since we've been during the F&G Festival. That playground looks REALLY cool! I wish they would have left it.

We've been to Le Cellier once pre-kids and we really liked it. DH wanted to go badly this time, but we couldn't get in (even though I called at exactly 90 days...free dining will do that!). It makes me feel better that you guys feel like it's BTDT.

Can't wait for more pictures.

ETA: Because I just saw your pictures...I got some stuff at the Disney Store too...and then some at the DisneyStore.com...twice.

:rotfl: Hope they were double the deals. :thumbsup2

I''m with you on the food at Kona I :love: their food!

I'd like to go to LeCellier but I'll also live if I don't :)

Great pictures and I love your shopping haul! Especially the rash guard, that's a great deal!

I could go for some Kona bread right now. :)

BC-Canada...

we missed Canada on our tour due to rain....haven't really lookd around much since 05, so your pictures were a treat, and I didn't see the Timon topiary, very cool!

We have not eaten at LC either....I'm not big on steak, though DH is. maybe one to do for the anni trip in 2011 :confused3

I love pretzel bread too, especially a snadwich on a pretzel roll...so I guess that would be one reason for me to go. Though I'd have to eaten a whole package of Lactaid before eating the cheese soup...:sick: I love the stuff, but it doesn't love me anymore :sad2:

To the shopping loot...a sale at DISNEY!!!! so dangerous :rolleyes1

great buys :thumbsup2

Thanks! They were some great deals.

LeCelier was one of our more memorable meals of our trip. The food was good but the server really made the meal for us. He was truly outstanding. Our food at Kona was outstanding, although our server was fine, nothing special. The landscaping around the Canadian pavillion is so beautiful. I just love the stone cottage.

That Kathy, she's an enabler, but what great stuff you got!

Yes, I'm so glad she posted about the sale.

Between you and Kathy, I am going to have to go stimulate the economy, too! :laughing:

Woohoo! We'll get things rolling again!

Great updates as usual Carissa!! The pics of the cheese soup and pretzel bread are making me hungry. But I agree, that soup is super rich, couldn't finish it!

Wow, you got some awesome deals! Cute stuff, I especially love those towels :thumbsup2

Me too! I love a nice, thick, soft towel.

Great pictures! Your boys are so handsome pirate:

Letting out some of the sillies is a necessity for my boys too - absolutely vital! :thumbsup2

In BC and, yet, no waving to us! :rotfl2:

We tried the cheese soup during the F&WF last year. It was good, but frankly, there's a restaurant near us that makes it just as well (not to mention it's way cheaper LOL).

Who says we didn't wave?? :wave2:

That's an awesome-looking shirt and another great price! What exactly does a rashguard shirt do anyway? I've seen them, but never looked into their purpose :confused3

I mainly use them so that the boys stay covered in the sun, but they're meant to get wet so they dry quicker than regular shirts.

Yeah Mickey!! :cheer2:

Aren't those plates great?? And so inexpensive!!
But why did you have to go and get me in trouble with Chuck?? :laughing:

Kathy

I love the plates! I'm glad you posted about the sale. :thumbsup2

I have the same bag and just love it:thumbsup2

I can always use more bags! ;)

I have the same opinion on Le Cellier as you, my steak was much nicer at Kona and we won't be hurrying back!

I love all your purchases and wow you got some bargains :thumbsup2

Yes I did!

LOVE the new Disney stuff!!! :cool1: Where EVER did you get it? Disney store, Disneyshopping online, or some other great store with Disney stuff? Such great prices...surely Chuck won't mind :rolleyes:

Oops - did I not say? I got it at the Disney Store. I would think all of them are having the same sales right now.

MagicShell

07-06-2009, 03:37 PM

I love the Disney stuff. I saw a lot of that when it first came out. The prices are much better now, maybe I should go look at them again.

DisMomAmy

07-06-2009, 07:14 PM

I wish we had a Disney store at our local mall! :headache: The nearest one is about 45 minutes away - which isn't bad, but it's in the opposite direction of almost everywhere I go so I'm never just "in the area". I'm sure I'll get there for some Christmas shopping - let's hope they have some great deals like the ones you and Kathy found!! :thumbsup2

irene_dsc

07-06-2009, 08:00 PM

That rashguard shirt was cute! Ds has orange swim trunks from Target that would probably match perfectly - just in case Sully needs matching swim trunks, y'know. (In the unlikely event that a Target halfway across the country would have the same swim trunks, lol.) Good deal! I love how quick sunscreening is with the shirt on.

liznboys

07-07-2009, 12:29 PM

SO many adorable topiary pictures!! I don't remember there being that many the last time we went to F&G. I wish F&G went into June.

I love that garden area in Canada. :goodvibes Your pictures are just beautiful!

Yep, I'm with you. LOVED the pretzel bread, the others didn't do anything for me. When we ate there for lunch our (very nice) waitress gave us a bunch of pretzel bread to take with us after our meal. She had it wrapped in tinfoil, and I put it into a gallon ziploc bag I had. We snacked on that the rest of the day, it was so good!

I agree, the cheese soup is rich. I didn't have a problem finishing mine, but I did a lot of pretzel bread dipping into it. Yum!!

Oldest son got the maple creme brulee and let me taste it, his was the best dessert by far of the three we had! I would love to eat at Le Cellier and only have the pretzel bread, cheese soup and creme brulee. Perfect! I wish they had a walk up counter where you could order a few things...those things. :)

Oh No! What's the disappointment?!

I love your Disney purchases. Really cute, and great deals! Can't pass deals like that up, no way! :)

OhMari

07-07-2009, 12:56 PM

Hey,
I usually check in every few weeks.
I go to the first page and click on the links.
Anyways, the last link, is going back to the Beverly post.
Those pictures were really funny, was your dh mad at you?

You've been in your new place over a month now, how are things going.

dddisrunner

07-07-2009, 07:30 PM

Great updates Carissa! I am finally getting caught up! I LOVE your flower and garden pictures. We had seen it the last 2 years and I was sad not to see it this year but I am thankful for all of your pretty pictures! Glad you had fun on Test Track, we love it! That is SO COOL that Chuck and the 2 little ones had that special moment as first class passengers!:thumbsup2 TOO FUNNY about the Beverly! Chuck's face is PRICELESS!! The boys look like they are having so much fun cooling off in those misters! That playground looks like a lot of fun too! Those Canadian gardens are so beautiful aren't they! I am glad you enjoyed LeCellier! I agree about the cheese soup it is VERY RICH a few bites is more than enough!:goodvibes Looking forward to more! I hope all is going well in your new home!:)

Happydog

07-07-2009, 08:37 PM

OKAY, so I have those same towels, very nice, and soft, we agree!!! Have WallE and Lightening McQueen... I love all your purchases, though!! Also, those topiaries, SO cool!! I love gardening and flowers, I would go nuts there if I went during the flower and garden show....

We ate at Le Cellier, too, and had a great experience, I thought the food was very good, and we didn't try Kona -- I was not enthralled with the atmosphere at Kona, this is why I am dragging my feet about choosing it for our next trip...

Anyway, a great update as always!! :thumbsup2

Hope Virginia Beach is treating you well !! :goodvibes

wvdislover

07-08-2009, 12:03 PM

Our local Disney store closed last year :sad2: I may have to trek over to Huntington (about a 30-40 minute drive), if they have deals like this :rolleyes:

mommytothreeboys

07-08-2009, 12:17 PM

Whew...finally caught up!

I love the F&G festival pics...it's so beautiful there! We enjoyed that playground as well...Jeff got to talking to the CM there and she said after F&G fest it all gets torn down.

We have not yet been to LeCellier...and I am a big steak fan. I'm sure it will be on our list for next trip...whenever that might be!

Great Disney Store purchases. All of our local Disney Stores are closed. :sad1:
I especially love the plates...too cute and perfect for summer!

Kirby

07-08-2009, 04:15 PM

Off topic for a minute - wvdislover, I have an uncle that lives in Cross Lanes - Back on topic.

carissanboys

07-08-2009, 05:55 PM

I love the Disney stuff. I saw a lot of that when it first came out. The prices are much better now, maybe I should go look at them again.

I tend to not visit the Disney Store unless I hear about a sale.

I wish we had a Disney store at our local mall! :headache: The nearest one is about 45 minutes away - which isn't bad, but it's in the opposite direction of almost everywhere I go so I'm never just "in the area". I'm sure I'll get there for some Christmas shopping - let's hope they have some great deals like the ones you and Kathy found!! :thumbsup2

That is kind of far to drive for a store. They always seem to have something on sale. :thumbsup2

That rashguard shirt was cute! Ds has orange swim trunks from Target that would probably match perfectly - just in case Sully needs matching swim trunks, y'know. (In the unlikely event that a Target halfway across the country would have the same swim trunks, lol.) Good deal! I love how quick sunscreening is with the shirt on.

Definitely. Luckily, we already have a pair of organge swim trunks. :)

SO many adorable topiary pictures!! I don't remember there being that many the last time we went to F&G. I wish F&G went into June.

I love that garden area in Canada. :goodvibes Your pictures are just beautiful!

Oh No! What's the disappointment?!

I love your Disney purchases. Really cute, and great deals! Can't pass deals like that up, no way! :)

That's right!

As for the disappointment - I will give the hint that in my PTR I talked about some people I REALLY wanted to see. :rolleyes1

I'm so excited to see you guys next week!!! :yay: :yay: :yay:

Hey,
I usually check in every few weeks.
I go to the first page and click on the links.
Anyways, the last link, is going back to the Beverly post.
Those pictures were really funny, was your dh mad at you?

You've been in your new place over a month now, how are things going.

Thanks for letting me know Marisa! I fixed it. :thumbsup2

Things are going well. Feeling more at home as time goes on. Loving having everything so close by including the ocean!

Great updates Carissa! I am finally getting caught up! I LOVE your flower and garden pictures. We had seen it the last 2 years and I was sad not to see it this year but I am thankful for all of your pretty pictures! Glad you had fun on Test Track, we love it! That is SO COOL that Chuck and the 2 little ones had that special moment as first class passengers!:thumbsup2 TOO FUNNY about the Beverly! Chuck's face is PRICELESS!! The boys look like they are having so much fun cooling off in those misters! That playground looks like a lot of fun too! Those Canadian gardens are so beautiful aren't they! I am glad you enjoyed LeCellier! I agree about the cheese soup it is VERY RICH a few bites is more than enough!:goodvibes Looking forward to more! I hope all is going well in your new home!:)

Thanks Diane! Can't wait to hear all about your trip! :woohoo:

OKAY, so I have those same towels, very nice, and soft, we agree!!! Have WallE and Lightening McQueen... I love all your purchases, though!! Also, those topiaries, SO cool!! I love gardening and flowers, I would go nuts there if I went during the flower and garden show....

We ate at Le Cellier, too, and had a great experience, I thought the food was very good, and we didn't try Kona -- I was not enthralled with the atmosphere at Kona, this is why I am dragging my feet about choosing it for our next trip...

Anyway, a great update as always!! :thumbsup2

Hope Virginia Beach is treating you well !! :goodvibes

Aren't those towels fabulous? I can't wait to use them. :goodvibes

Our local Disney store closed last year :sad2: I may have to trek over to Huntington (about a 30-40 minute drive), if they have deals like this :rolleyes:

Living back in Maryland, most everything was about a 30 - 40 minute drive. That's what I love about where we are now. Everything I need is so close by. Hope you get a chance to check out the sale stuff.

Whew...finally caught up!

I love the F&G festival pics...it's so beautiful there! We enjoyed that playground as well...Jeff got to talking to the CM there and she said after F&G fest it all gets torn down.

We have not yet been to LeCellier...and I am a big steak fan. I'm sure it will be on our list for next trip...whenever that might be!

Great Disney Store purchases. All of our local Disney Stores are closed. :sad1:
I especially love the plates...too cute and perfect for summer!

Hey you! :goodvibes Yeah, sadly those play areas are only up for F & G. But, that makes them even cooler I think.

We've already used our new plates a couple of times. :thumbsup2

Off topic for a minute - wvdislover, I have an uncle that lives in Cross Lanes - Back on topic.

No worries being off topic around here. In fact, I thrive on off topic. :cool2:

mousescrapper

07-08-2009, 08:38 PM

wvdislover

07-08-2009, 09:15 PM

Off topic for a minute - wvdislover, I have an uncle that lives in Cross Lanes - Back on topic.

Too cool! Who is he? Wouldn't it be funny if I know him? What a small world!

OK, back to Carissa's TR! ;)

Kirby

07-08-2009, 09:33 PM

Too cool! Who is he? Wouldn't it be funny if I know him? What a small world!

OK, back to Carissa's TR! ;)
His name is Hal Burke.

lazydoxy66

07-08-2009, 09:43 PM

That filet at Le Cellier looked scrumptious. Me and my BFF will be at both Kona and Le Cellier this fall. It will be interesting to see what we think after reading all the reviews from other folks.

Your shopping spree was a successfull one by the looks of it. Nice finds!

wvdislover

07-09-2009, 11:17 AM

His name is Hal Burke.

Shoot, no, I don't know him. Oh, well, maybe one day I'll run into him :rolleyes:

Kirby

07-09-2009, 02:59 PM

Shoot, no, I don't know him. Oh, well, maybe one day I'll run into him :rolleyes:
Maybe you will, it's a small world. He's in his 80's and gets around really well, much better than people 10 years younger than him.

mrsksomeday

07-09-2009, 03:20 PM

I love, love, love your pictures of the topiaries!! Bill and I have to go during that time of year one day. Great Disney Store finds too!

carissanboys

07-11-2009, 08:36 AM

like the pied piper...his Disney Store sale song got me all the way over there :rolleyes1

oh and I did spend a few dollars...but mostly gifts for kids for Christmas...but I did get the summer serving platter for me!

:rotfl: Yay for the serving platter!

That filet at Le Cellier looked scrumptious. Me and my BFF will be at both Kona and Le Cellier this fall. It will be interesting to see what we think after reading all the reviews from other folks.

Your shopping spree was a successfull one by the looks of it. Nice finds!

Both places cook an awesome steak. :thumbsup2

I love, love, love your pictures of the topiaries!! Bill and I have to go during that time of year one day. Great Disney Store finds too!

Thanks Tracy - those topiaries were pretty amazing.

carissanboys

07-11-2009, 09:37 AM

We quickly exited Le Cellier because there was someone I wanted to see - very badly. Back in my PTR I posted how I was smitten (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29965861&postcount=862) by the group Off Kilter. :love: I had never been lucky enough to see them in person, but after seeing pictures and video of them, they were high on my list for this trip. I had checked Steve Soares site before leaving home and it looked like they'd be performing right around the time our lunch was ending. Great timing!

We started to look for the pavilion where they'd be playing and I strained my ears to hear their music. Then I saw the sign. Off Kilter wouldn't be performing until 3 p.m. :sad1: I knew we wouldn't be back over to Canada at that time so it was with great disappointment that we moved on to England.

Our first stop was to find the KidCot Station.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4788.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4787.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4786.jpg

I looked around the corner and who should be there, but our friends from The Hundred Acre Woods!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4782.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4783.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4784.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4785.jpg

What is Tigger looking for? :confused3

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4789.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4790.jpg

Just as we were leaving, look what we caught that Pooh doing! :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4791.jpg

I love this one - so appropriate for England!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4792.jpg

We continued on our way through the countries, mainly stopping long enough to do the KidCot stations. We had spent quite a bit of time in this part of WS on our previous trip. We really wanted to get around to the other side and focus on Mexico and Norway.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4793.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4794.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4795.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4796.jpg

Another play area:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4798.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4799.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4800.jpg

Up Next - Kim Possible Turns Out to Be Impossible (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32700861&postcount=1319)

Charleston Princess

07-11-2009, 11:51 AM

Angies1274

07-11-2009, 12:09 PM

Great pictures of your boys with the Pooh characters!!!:thumbsup2 That Pooh!!!:laughing: A very cute picture of him flirting with the CM!! We didn't find the other play area while we were there?:confused3 My boys would have loved it!! So sad:sad2: that they took them down after F&G Festival.

Native NYer

07-11-2009, 01:23 PM

Just started reading and loving it. I have to go back and read your ptr.

MRYPPNS

07-11-2009, 01:44 PM

Just started reading and loving it. I have to go back and read your ptr.

Jen! I was just thinking about you the other day. Stop by my TR and say hello and updated us on what you have been up too!

Lifelong_Dreamer

07-11-2009, 01:54 PM

That is too bad that you did not get to see Off Kilter. :guilty:

carissanboys

07-11-2009, 03:28 PM

Oh, no! How disappointing to miss Off Kilter again! :( I guess you should start planning the next trip so you can see them. :laughing:

Pooh is too cute flirting away with the CM! :goodvibes

Love the title of your next update -- I wonder if you had a similar experience to the one(s) we had...:rolleyes1

Thanks! I thought that was a pretty creative title for so early in the morning. :rotfl:

Great pictures of your boys with the Pooh characters!!!:thumbsup2 That Pooh!!!:laughing: A very cute picture of him flirting with the CM!! We didn't find the other play area while we were there?:confused3 My boys would have loved it!! So sad:sad2: that they took them down after F&G Festival.

We found a total of 3 play areas. I have one more to post pictures of.

Just started reading and loving it. I have to go back and read your ptr.

Hey Jennifer! Long time no see lady! :goodvibes You read part of my PTR, before I took a hiatus from the Dis. ;)

That is too bad that you did not get to see Off Kilter. :guilty:

Yes, I'm still bummed about it. :( I so wanted to see those hotties. :rolleyes1

MeMom

07-11-2009, 03:40 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Picture290.jpg

I got two each of the Mickey, Minnie, Stitch, and Nemo plates last week. I keep looking at the tray, but I've put it back every time. For five bucks, why can't I just walk to the counter with it? I think it is because we already have some tropical themed items from last year's stuff. I'll be sorry if I don't get it, though, because I'll need to take a tray of something to school and I'll be wishing I had something Disney to take it on. I'm going to keep looking at your picture until I just go back over there and get it probably!

carissanboys

07-11-2009, 03:49 PM

I got two each of the Mickey, Minnie, Stitch, and Nemo plates last week. I keep looking at the tray, but I've put it back every time. For five bucks, why can't I just walk to the counter with it? I think it is because we already have some tropical themed items from last year's stuff. I'll be sorry if I don't get it, though, because I'll need to take a tray of something to school and I'll be wishing I had something Disney to take it on. I'm going to keep looking at your picture until I just go back over there and get it probably!

:rotfl: They didn't have anymore of the Nemo or Stitch plates when I was there. :(

DisneyJo

07-11-2009, 03:51 PM

Missing Off Kilter is a great excuse to go back :thumbsup2

Those play areas look great, pity they're not there all the time!

mrsksomeday

07-11-2009, 03:55 PM

Great installment! I am going to have to research where the Kidcot stations are so we can take Hannah and Christian. I loved the pictures, you have me intrigued by your cliffhanger.

winkers

07-11-2009, 05:14 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4789.jpg

I think the cm next to eeyore must have been the inspiration for the character.:rotfl2:

pamouselover

07-11-2009, 06:02 PM

Catching up! Pick your own pasta looks yummy! So glad I am not the only one to take a picture of the toilets!
Love the pictures of Epcot.Those topiaries are so awesome. I have to get there during that time.

dismagiclover

07-11-2009, 06:41 PM

Bummer about missing Off Kilter. Guess it gives you a reason to go back;) Love all the pictures of the Hundred Acres Wood clan. They are so cute:goodvibes Hope you actually get to Norway and Mexico.

KathyRN137

07-11-2009, 09:59 PM

So very sorry you missed the lads in kilts... something to add to the "must-do" list for next time!

Sweet picture of Pooh! pooh: Must be all the hunny...

Great bit of luck running into the characters like that!

Hmmm. Kim Possible impossible?? Don't like the sound of that!!

Great to have you back!

Kathy

carissanboys

07-12-2009, 08:11 PM

Missing Off Kilter is a great excuse to go back :thumbsup2

Those play areas look great, pity they're not there all the time!

Yes, because it's very hard to come up with excuses to go back to WDW! ;)

Great installment! I am going to have to research where the Kidcot stations are so we can take Hannah and Christian. I loved the pictures, you have me intrigued by your cliffhanger.

Definitely! At least the KidCot stations give the kids something to look for at each country and keep them moving. ;)

I think the cm next to eeyore must have been the inspiration for the character.:rotfl2:

:rotfl: Yeah, the photopass lady doesn't look too excited there, does she?

Catching up! Pick your own pasta looks yummy! So glad I am not the only one to take a picture of the toilets!
Love the pictures of Epcot.Those topiaries are so awesome. I have to get there during that time.

Hey stranger! :goodvibes Those bathrooms were so cool!!

Bummer about missing Off Kilter. Guess it gives you a reason to go back;) Love all the pictures of the Hundred Acres Wood clan. They are so cute:goodvibes Hope you actually get to Norway and Mexico.

I love Tigger! :goodvibes

So very sorry you missed the lads in kilts... something to add to the "must-do" list for next time!

Sweet picture of Pooh! pooh: Must be all the hunny...

Great bit of luck running into the characters like that!

Hmmm. Kim Possible impossible?? Don't like the sound of that!!

Great to have you back!

Kathy

We had never really ventured into the stores around there and wouldn't have if it wasn't for the KidCot station so it was very cool running into them. :thumbsup2

Happydog

07-12-2009, 08:37 PM

eandesmom

07-13-2009, 12:32 AM

irene_dsc

07-13-2009, 10:37 AM

What a bummer about missing Off Kilter when you thought you'd planned it perfectly! We missed most of that side of WS entirely so it's cool to see your pics.

Pooh was cute! We didn't see any characters in WS - but that's ok, since dd was being scared of them, anyhow.

And uh-oh on the impossible Kim Possible...

Native NYer

07-13-2009, 05:10 PM

Caught up! I'm enjoying your tr :)

shannon47142

07-13-2009, 06:05 PM

fun pictures with Pooh and friends:thumbsup2

dddisrunner

07-13-2009, 06:09 PM

Oh man that STINKS about Off Kilter! The pictures of Pooh and friends are so cute!!:thumbsup2

carissanboys

07-14-2009, 06:40 AM

Glad you enjoyed Le Cellier, and that you at least got to see Pooh and friends :goodvibes Your photos from England are wonderful, I think it must have been so pretty at Epcot with the flowers and special landscaping for the garden show! :goodvibes

Thanks - it was beautiful. :goodvibes

Oh NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! that's just wrong that you missed them :(

me. very. sad.

having been spoiled enough to stumble upon them by pure luck and then not having enough time to really listen to them.....

me. very sad. I would have lived, again, vicariouslyl

Sorry - I was pretty sad myself. :(

What a bummer about missing Off Kilter when you thought you'd planned it perfectly! We missed most of that side of WS entirely so it's cool to see your pics.

Pooh was cute! We didn't see any characters in WS - but that's ok, since dd was being scared of them, anyhow.

And uh-oh on the impossible Kim Possible...

I learned something from this trip - check the schedule as soon as you arrive at the park. :thumbsup2 It probably wouldn't have made a difference though.

Caught up! I'm enjoying your tr :)

Thanks Jennifer :goodvibes

fun pictures with Pooh and friends:thumbsup2

Thanks! :)

Oh man that STINKS about Off Kilter! The pictures of Pooh and friends are so cute!!:thumbsup2

Thanks Diane :flower3:

carissanboys

07-14-2009, 07:39 AM

I don't have a lot of pictures left from Epcot. I think we were so hot and tired that I was just trying to keep the gang moving along.

First, a couple of pictures from Morocco:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4802.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4803.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4804.jpg

We made our way over to Japan so the boys could buy their Pokemon stuff.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4805.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4806.jpg

These are so pretty:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4807.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4817.jpg

So after Japan, we decided to find a Kim Possible kiosk. I still wasn't completely sure how all of it worked. The CM told us to print out a ticket with our return time. What I didn't realize is that the ticket would also tell us where to check in. And the one we received had has going all the way back over to Internation Gateway - the opposite way we were headed. :sad2:

I knew there was no way we could make it back over there. We still wanted to get to Mexico and Norway and the boys were fading fast. The CM did say eventually that if we couldn't make it over there, we could return back to her and she would give us our stuff. I realized we should have gotten our FP before we even entered the WS. But, even if we had, I don't like the way it works. The WS is a huge area. Who wants to be backtracking all over the place? So, after a discussion with the family, we sadly decided to skip Kim Possible.

To squelch the boys disappointment, we decided to find the pirate play area.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4809.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4810.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4811.jpg

We made our way over to Norway and got in line for Maelstrom. I don't remember how long the wait was, but the line moved quickly and it was cool inside. We thought it was fun - definitely a must do at least once.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4818.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4819.jpg

Then it was off to Mexico to finish our world tour. I was sure I had taken pictures in Mexico, but I can't seem to find them. We had never been inside before and was amazed! San Angel Inn is so beautiful! We enjoyed the fiesta ride.

I am proud to report that the boys did get their masks completed. Our final mission of the day was to do Ellen's Universe of Energy - another first for us. We loved it! I can't imagine sitting through it many times, but for the first time we were very impressed.

When we came out we realized it had poured during our trip back to the dinosaurs. Still super humid. So, it was back to POR we went.

We had quite the treat waiting for us back in our room:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4821.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4820.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4822.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4823.jpg

Those were my favorite from the trip - so cute!

I bought this at the gift shop in Test Track:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4825.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_5020.jpg

We ended up having dinner at the food court again and it was the make your own pasta for Chuck and I. We got our desserts to go. I decided I would head to DTD by myself this evening to exchange my shirt from Chuck and do a bit of shopping. I thought it would be nice to have some alone time.

You know what though? I ended up feeling very lonely on the boat ride and during my time in DTD. It just felt very odd being without them.

I went to the World of Disney and it was so crazy in there. I quickly exchanged my shirt and found the other items I wanted - postcards, Christmas ornament, and a magnet. I don't think I have any pictures of my purchases, but you'll see the shirt I got in the pictures from the next day.

Back to POR I went to eat my dessert (the apple pie) and hit the hay.

Up Next - Kilimanjaro Safaris Comes to a Stand Still (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32819082&postcount=1356)

dismagiclover

07-14-2009, 07:53 AM

littlezar

07-14-2009, 08:04 AM

Finally all caught up again. :)

Loved the pics. Play areas all looked super cool. LOL @ Pokemon...that is just not ever going away - my 14 year old and his friend that's visiting from NC were playing it yesterday on their DS's.

My 3 yr old has the Buzz Lightyear swim trunks, rashguard, flip flops, sunglasses & towel thanks to my sister-in-law and the sale at the Disney Store! We also have Nemo & Buzz plates and I have the Mickey bag, too!

cjackearl

07-14-2009, 08:46 AM

I love that troll topiary!:rotfl:

Sorry about the KP mission. It was fun to do, but not worth that much walking.

The elephant towel animals are the coolest I think I've seen! What an awesome surprise.:goodvibes

MeMom

07-14-2009, 08:59 AM

These are so pretty:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4807.jpg

I bought this at the gift shop in Test Track:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4825.jpg

Love the kimonos in Japan! They are so delicately stitched and pretty.

I looked at that pin a dozen times in March, but was on a shoestring budget, so I didn't get it. I did get a picture of it, though. :)

Maybe the Kim Possible mission will work out better next time.

Kirby

07-14-2009, 09:04 AM

While you didn't get to do Kim Possible, you made the right call. Your kids probably would have gone through a meltdown had you pursued that course. I can totally sympathize. When we were there in 2002, my son purchased a dagger in China late afternoon. After the fact, we found out it would be at least three hours before we could pick it up at customer service. :scared1:
We were already tired at that point and the thought of sticking around in the park for three more hours exhausted us, but we did it. We just were not thinking that you couldn't have a weapon in the parks. We could have had it sent to the hotel but since we were leaving the next day, we were afraid that it would not arrive in time. We'll know better next time.

MRYPPNS

07-14-2009, 09:13 AM

I just thought of something....did I ever thank you for the postcard? Geez I hope I did, but if not, Thank you!

DTD is best shopped in the morning. Sorry you missed the guys. I can't say that happend to me :rolleyes1

pamouselover

07-14-2009, 09:34 AM

Sorry you did not get to do KP! I hear it is fun. Epcot is always so hot. Your pictures made me feel like I was back there. I think I getting the I need to goto disney again fever. I loved the pirate toperies! So cool.

carissanboys

07-14-2009, 10:23 AM

Great update! Sorry you missed Kim Possible. It is unclear how it all works:confused3 You made the right call though. If you picked up your Kimmunicator at International Gateway that would have sent you on a mission to either France or the UK. I love the pirate topiarys! So cute! :woohoo: for actually finishing the masks too! My kids did that a couple of trips ago and loved it.

Geesh - I hadn't even thought about being sent somewhere else to do the mission! Ugh!

Finally all caught up again. :)

Loved the pics. Play areas all looked super cool. LOL @ Pokemon...that is just not ever going away - my 14 year old and his friend that's visiting from NC were playing it yesterday on their DS's.

My 3 yr old has the Buzz Lightyear swim trunks, rashguard, flip flops, sunglasses & towel thanks to my sister-in-law and the sale at the Disney Store! We also have Nemo & Buzz plates and I have the Mickey bag, too!

I am so tired of having Pokemon cards all over the house!!! :mad:

I love that troll topiary!:rotfl:

Sorry about the KP mission. It was fun to do, but not worth that much walking.

The elephant towel animals are the coolest I think I've seen! What an awesome surprise.:goodvibes

I hated to move them - they were so cute!! Glad I got a picture at least. :goodvibes

Love the kimonos in Japan! They are so delicately stitched and pretty.

I looked at that pin a dozen times in March, but was on a shoestring budget, so I didn't get it. I did get a picture of it, though. :)

Maybe the Kim Possible mission will work out better next time.

I only bought maybe 3 pins for myself and we don't buy a lot of souvenirs anyway, so I splurged. Wasn't sure I'd ever be back there for the F & G Festival again.

Next time we'll plan our WS time around Kim Possible - now that we've done all of the countries.

While you didn't get to do Kim Possible, you made the right call. Your kids probably would have gone through a meltdown had you pursued that course. I can totally sympathize. When we were there in 2002, my son purchased a dagger in China late afternoon. After the fact, we found out it would be at least three hours before we could pick it up at customer service. :scared1:
We were already tired at that point and the thought of sticking around in the park for three more hours exhausted us, but we did it. We just were not thinking that you couldn't have a weapon in the parks. We could have had it sent to the hotel but since we were leaving the next day, we were afraid that it would not arrive in time. We'll know better next time.

Ugh! That would be tough. I know we made the right decision at the time. Just wish I would have planned it better. Oh well.

I just thought of something....did I ever thank you for the postcard? Geez I hope I did, but if not, Thank you!

DTD is best shopped in the morning. Sorry you missed the guys. I can't say that happend to me :rolleyes1

:rotfl: Yes, I believe you did. :goodvibes I was surprised that I missed them, honestly. It has made me rethink my desire to go to WDW alone or on a girls' trip sometime. I think WDW just doesn't feel right without my family. I did enjoy that short walk I took around the grounds a day or two earlier. But, being around other families on the boat ride is what really made me miss them.

Sorry you did not get to do KP! I hear it is fun. Epcot is always so hot. Your pictures made me feel like I was back there. I think I getting the I need to goto disney again fever. I loved the pirate toperies! So cool.

I've heard differing opinions on the Kim Possible thing. But, I'd like to try it out ourselves sometime. And join the club! I'm feeling it too. Doesn't help that the boys are always asking when we can go back. :(

Charleston Princess

07-14-2009, 10:35 AM

I'll trade you my KP experience for your KP experience! :laughing:

carissanboys

07-14-2009, 04:09 PM

I'll trade you my KP experience for your KP experience! :laughing:

I'll wait until I've heard about yours before I decide. ;)

winkers

07-14-2009, 04:49 PM

KathyRN137

07-14-2009, 05:42 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_5020.jpg

Great picture Carissa! It's really an achievement to get the masks completed!

Love the Mama and Baby Elephant towel animals too... never saw that combo before!

Kathy

Happydog

07-14-2009, 05:59 PM

Great update!!! The photos look nice! I like the ones from the WS... I am curious about the Kim Possible -- we saw it, but didn't try it. I wondered. Seems a little more complex and intensive than one might expect? Anyway, I agree with you, it is fun to go off and shop, but when you are along it is weird! ;)

I am glad you liked Port Orleans -- I am curious to get your final reflections on it overall....

Looking forward to more :surfweb:

mrsksomeday

07-14-2009, 07:03 PM

Great installment, I loved the picture of the kids with the masks, it made me smile and want to make sure Hannah and Christian do that. The towel animals and how the stuffed animals were staged was so cute.

eandesmom

07-15-2009, 02:03 AM

what a bummer about KP but a great recovery with the play area.

While this doesn't help now...they WILL get tired of, outgrow, Pokemon.

I promise.

I don't miss those days though!

thadarkslayer

07-15-2009, 05:15 AM

Bummer about KP, but it's just something you'll have to plan another trip for, right? ;)

carissanboys

07-15-2009, 07:31 AM

I think they have some kinks to work out with the kim possible thing. It's fun and a great idea but you should be able to pick what country you want to do.

we've never managed to finish the masks. They seem to get left at different countries along the way.:rotfl2:

I love what mousekeeping did with the animals in the blinds! So cute!
That's the first elephant towel animal I've seen.

We got very lucky with all of the great things our mousekeeper did for us. :goodvibes

Great picture Carissa! It's really an achievement to get the masks completed!

Love the Mama and Baby Elephant towel animals too... never saw that combo before!

Kathy

Thanks Kathy!

Great update!!! The photos look nice! I like the ones from the WS... I am curious about the Kim Possible -- we saw it, but didn't try it. I wondered. Seems a little more complex and intensive than one might expect? Anyway, I agree with you, it is fun to go off and shop, but when you are along it is weird! ;)

I am glad you liked Port Orleans -- I am curious to get your final reflections on it overall....

Looking forward to more :surfweb:

I have two more park days to get through (Animal Kingdom and Sea World) and then we'll finally get to my verdict on staying on property. :thumbsup2

Great installment, I loved the picture of the kids with the masks, it made me smile and want to make sure Hannah and Christian do that. The towel animals and how the stuffed animals were staged was so cute.

Can't wait to see pictures of them with their masks! ;)

what a bummer about KP but a great recovery with the play area.

While this doesn't help now...they WILL get tired of, outgrow, Pokemon.

I promise.

I don't miss those days though!

There could be worse things - that's for sure. ;)

Bummer about KP, but it's just something you'll have to plan another trip for, right? ;)

Exactly. :thumbsup2

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

The reason I posted my update early this week is because the boys and I are hitting the road tomorrow. We're heading to North Carolina to visit friends and then meeting up with Chuck in Georgia for the weekend. It's just a short trip and we'll be back Monday.

torsie24

07-15-2009, 07:49 AM

Another great update Carissa, what a shame about KP, I didn't realise it was so involved to get a phone for it.

Have a great trip. :)

pixarfanmommn

07-15-2009, 08:01 AM

Thanks for the update on KP. We are hoping to try it in Oct so I will be sure to go there first before WS.

dismagiclover

07-15-2009, 08:24 AM

Have a fun trip. Tell your friends hi from me:goodvibes

Charleston Princess

07-15-2009, 08:25 AM

Have a great trip!!! :goodvibes

carissanboys

07-15-2009, 09:00 AM

Another great update Carissa, what a shame about KP, I didn't realise it was so involved to get a phone for it.

Have a great trip. :)

Thanks! I love road trips. :goodvibes

Thanks for the update on KP. We are hoping to try it in Oct so I will be sure to go there first before WS.

That's the good thing about my mistakes - others can learn from them. :thumbsup2

Have a fun trip. Tell your friends hi from me:goodvibes

:rotfl: Will do Jenny. ;) Haven't seen them since they moved!

Have a great trip!!! :goodvibes

Thanks Jackie! :)

Kirby

07-15-2009, 09:16 AM

While this doesn't help now...they WILL get tired of, outgrow, Pokemon.

I promise.

I don't miss those days though!
But they move on to other card games like Magic. My son, who is now 21, played it into high school and then picked it back up a couple of years ago. He goes to local tournaments now. Does pretty well. He even buys/sells them on E-bay. It doesn't control his life like it does some but he enjoys playing when he gets a chance.

mousescrapper

07-15-2009, 04:28 PM

[FONT="Trebuchet MS"][SIZE="3"]I
First, a couple of pictures from Morocco:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4802.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4803.jpg

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"]I love that little store area...it is so cool!

So after Japan, we decided to find a Kim Possible kiosk. I still wasn't completely sure how all of it worked. The CM told us to print out a ticket with our return time. What I didn't realize is that the ticket would also tell us where to check in. And the one we received had has going all the way back over to Internation Gateway - the opposite way we were headed. :sad2:

understnad that feeling...we were in France when we had to hightail it back to Italy and then on to Germany...

So, after a discussion with the family, we sadly decided to skip Kim Possible.

sorry your KPM was a no go...hopefully someone else saved the world that day for you...:sad2:

very clever picture...reminds me of all the masked pictures I took of Mae from our 08 trip! cute!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_5020.jpg

have a great weekend! :thumbsup2

LaurenMic

07-15-2009, 10:28 PM

That stinks you didn't get to do Kim Possible. We saw tons of groups doing it when we were in Mexico, but I didn't realize it was so popular you needed an FP for it.

I love the troll topiary! And that is great you got to check out Universe of Energy, I still crack up at Ellen's jokes despite seeing it so many times. You are right though, it's not something you can do more than once a trip, that's for sure!

Cute pin! I can't wait to see the shirt you got :)

hhockman

07-16-2009, 01:01 AM

Great update! I'm sorry about KP. Your misunderstanding is a great help to all of us that have yet to go though! So, thanks. ;)

Have a safe trip this weekend. I'm so glad you're going to get to see Chuck for a couple of days.

Waiting for the next installment, whenever you have time for it. :)

Native NYer

07-16-2009, 05:18 AM

What a bummer that you didn't get to do Kim Possible. I guess that's something to get a time for earlier in the day.

MeMom

07-16-2009, 05:56 AM

The reason I posted my update early this week is because the boys and I are hitting the road tomorrow. We're heading to North Carolina to visit friends and then meeting up with Chuck in Georgia for the weekend. It's just a short trip and we'll be back Monday.

Very nice! I am sure you will all enjoy that. Thoughts and prayers for safe travels and good times!

micandminforever

07-16-2009, 09:07 AM

Sending traveling mercies for your family.

coffeehousemom

07-18-2009, 11:48 AM

Carissa awesome pics. We did KP when we were there in Jan & it was fun but tiring. We did all seven missions so it was tons of walking. But we did learn after about 4 that you can tell them what country you want. Have a good trip.

DisMomAmy

07-18-2009, 12:05 PM

Sorry about Kim Possible! I feel the same way as you... I did research it enough ahead of time to know about getting a FP so we had that part covered, but I was surprised to be sent back to Japan (where we had just had lunch) for our mission. I wish we could have done another mission, but the zigging & zagging would have been too much - especially since we didn't want to get too far away from the rest of our group. It was fun, but I think if we do it again, we'll plan to do that as our WS touring plan... maybe catching some of the stuff we miss on another day. :confused3

liznboys

07-18-2009, 02:18 PM

:( ..missing Off Kilter.. :( Did I ever share the cd I have of theirs with you?

Cute Pooh pix! I like seeing Pooh and Friends back there, it's always been empty & quiet.

I wish they always had those play areas around!

You are so great at the picture taking! Love all the WS ones. I never have enough to time to look around there.

Sorry you didn't do KP...you know how I feel about it now. lol

Your room looked cute when you got back!

I like you new pin!

Cute pic of the boys with their masks!

That's nice you had alone time, but sad you missed the family. Crazy, huh?! lol ;)

"We're heading to North Carolina to visit friends..." It was SO GREAT seeing you!!! :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

lisalonglash

07-18-2009, 03:18 PM

We made our way over to Japan so the boys could buy their Pokemon stuff.

Gorgeous pictures, Carissa! I'm really looking forward to checking out the Japan Pavilion this time :thumbsup2 My boys aren't interested in Pokemon, but anything Lego is fair game :rotfl2:

So after Japan, we decided to find a Kim Possible kiosk. I still wasn't completely sure how all of it worked. The CM told us to print out a ticket with our return time. What I didn't realize is that the ticket would also tell us where to check in. And the one we received had has going all the way back over to Internation Gateway - the opposite way we were headed. :sad2:

What a backwards way to run an attraction! :confused3

I knew there was no way we could make it back over there. We still wanted to get to Mexico and Norway and the boys were fading fast. The CM did say eventually that if we couldn't make it over there, we could return back to her and she would give us our stuff. I realized we should have gotten our FP before we even entered the WS. But, even if we had, I don't like the way it works. The WS is a huge area. Who wants to be backtracking all over the place? So, after a discussion with the family, we sadly decided to skip Kim Possible.

Aww, sorry it didn't work out :sad2:

To squelch the boys disappointment, we decided to find the pirate play area.

That looks like so much fun!

I am proud to report that the boys did get their masks completed. Our final mission of the day was to do Ellen's Universe of Energy - another first for us. We loved it! I can't imagine sitting through it many times, but for the first time we were very impressed.

Looking forward to the Ellen thing - anything to do with Bill Nye is an automatic hit here! :thumbsup2

We had quite the treat waiting for us back in our room:

Wow! How much fun is that?! :yay:

I bought this at the gift shop in Test Track:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4825.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_5020.jpg

That's a neat pin! Great job on the masks! :banana:

You know what though? I ended up feeling very lonely on the boat ride and during my time in DTD. It just felt very odd being without them.

I know exactly what you mean :hug:

Up Next - Kilimanjaro Safaris Comes to a Stand Still

:scared:

carissanboys

07-21-2009, 05:56 AM

But they move on to other card games like Magic. My son, who is now 21, played it into high school and then picked it back up a couple of years ago. He goes to local tournaments now. Does pretty well. He even buys/sells them on E-bay. It doesn't control his life like it does some but he enjoys playing when he gets a chance.

My oldest likes to play to Dungeons and Dragons with Chuck. And he's interested in painting the models for the other game Chuck plays (Warhammer).

have a great weekend! :thumbsup2

Thanks! We did! :goodvibes

That stinks you didn't get to do Kim Possible. We saw tons of groups doing it when we were in Mexico, but I didn't realize it was so popular you needed an FP for it.

I love the troll topiary! And that is great you got to check out Universe of Energy, I still crack up at Ellen's jokes despite seeing it so many times. You are right though, it's not something you can do more than once a trip, that's for sure!

Cute pin! I can't wait to see the shirt you got :)

The reason for doing the FP and sending you to different countries on KP is so there aren't a bunch of people all doing the same stuff through each country.

Great update! I'm sorry about KP. Your misunderstanding is a great help to all of us that have yet to go though! So, thanks. ;)

Have a safe trip this weekend. I'm so glad you're going to get to see Chuck for a couple of days.

Waiting for the next installment, whenever you have time for it. :)

Thanks! We had a lovely visit. :love:

What a bummer that you didn't get to do Kim Possible. I guess that's something to get a time for earlier in the day.

It's definitely something to consider. And if you really want to do KP, plan to work around it instead of working KP around your time through WS.

Very nice! I am sure you will all enjoy that. Thoughts and prayers for safe travels and good times!

Thanks MeMom! We made it home safe and sound after a lovely weekend and beautiful weather!

Sending traveling mercies for your family.

Thank you! :)

Carissa awesome pics. We did KP when we were there in Jan & it was fun but tiring. We did all seven missions so it was tons of walking. But we did learn after about 4 that you can tell them what country you want. Have a good trip.

Wow! You guys are experts on KP now! ;)

Sorry about Kim Possible! I feel the same way as you... I did research it enough ahead of time to know about getting a FP so we had that part covered, but I was surprised to be sent back to Japan (where we had just had lunch) for our mission. I wish we could have done another mission, but the zigging & zagging would have been too much - especially since we didn't want to get too far away from the rest of our group. It was fun, but I think if we do it again, we'll plan to do that as our WS touring plan... maybe catching some of the stuff we miss on another day. :confused3

I think when you have little kids who will get tired from too much walking and you really want to do KP, you have to work everything around KP. We only had the one day at Epcot so it didn't work out for us. Oh well - next time.

:( ..missing Off Kilter.. :( Did I ever share the cd I have of theirs with you?

Cute Pooh pix! I like seeing Pooh and Friends back there, it's always been empty & quiet.

I wish they always had those play areas around!

You are so great at the picture taking! Love all the WS ones. I never have enough to time to look around there.

Sorry you didn't do KP...you know how I feel about it now. lol

Your room looked cute when you got back!

I like you new pin!

Cute pic of the boys with their masks!

That's nice you had alone time, but sad you missed the family. Crazy, huh?! lol ;)

"We're heading to North Carolina to visit friends..." It was SO GREAT seeing you!!! :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

I don't think you have shared your Off Kilter cd.

We had such a great time hanging out with you guys! :hug:

Gorgeous pictures, Carissa! I'm really looking forward to checking out the Japan Pavilion this time :thumbsup2 My boys aren't interested in Pokemon, but anything Lego is fair game :rotfl2:

There is so much to see and do in the WS!! After 3 visits, we still have only barely scratched the surface.

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

We're home from our trip! We had a great time and I'll try and post a few pictures later today and maybe another installment. :thumbsup2

carissanboys

07-21-2009, 04:01 PM

I just posted some pictures from our trip on my blog. Here is the direct link:

Will Travel by Foot (http://www.willtravelbyfoot.com/2009/07/north-carolinageorgia-road-trip.html)

The first picture is of my friend Liz's (liznboys) four boys and my three all together. Liz and I have known each other since our oldest boys were babies/toddlers. Every time we get together we take a group shot of the boys. Liz, did you look for one from last time, two years ago? I need to go see if I can find some and post them along with the most recent. :goodvibes

**edited to add**

I found a picture from two years ago (I stole it from you Liz) and posted it on my blog with the most recent.

You could say we had a DIS meet! :rotfl:

I'll get an installment posted tomorrow morning. :cool1:

liznboys

07-21-2009, 05:49 PM

I don't think you have shared your Off Kilter cd.
We had such a great time hanging out with you guys! :hug:

Ok, I will be doing that then.

Us too!!! I can't wait for next time! :hug:

...You could say we had a DIS meet! :rotfl:...

:laughing: :thumbsup2

carissanboys

07-22-2009, 06:37 AM

~ April 2nd, 2009 ~

Woke up the next day around six and it was another "eat breakfast in our room" day. We arrived pretty early at Animal Kingdom and had to wait for them to let us through.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3028.jpg

We did catch a glimpse of an African bull frog that a CM had with her so we stopped and talked with her for a minute.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3029.jpg

While we watched the opening show, we noticed there was a photopass photographer standing around. He seemed suprised when we asked for a picture. Guess he's not used to anyone wanting a bunch of people in the background. :rotfl:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520000.jpg

The first thing we did was head to Kilimanjaro Safaris. We had opted not to do this ride last trip. We wanted to try and do it in the morning so we'd have a better chance of seeing the animals more active. I don't believe there was much of a wait - mainly just slow moving as they loaded up the jeeps.

We did end up seeing lots of animals! (These are probably out of order.)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3030.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3032.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3035.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3036.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3042.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3043.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3045.jpg

In fact, the animals were so active, that we continually had to stop because one was in the road. At one point, we were stopped for about five minutes. It was funny to look around and see all of the jeeps just sitting there.

Two short videos of the safari ride - one taken while moving past the hippos and one taken while we were standing still.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/th_MVI_3031.jpg (http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/?action=view&current=MVI_3031.flv)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/th_MVI_3033.jpg (http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/?action=view&current=MVI_3033.flv)

With our safari through Africa complete, we decided to try and hit the KidCot station on the Paganini Trail. Once again, the boys wanted to try and complete their passport. However, we told them we weren't going to go to Rafiki's Planet Watch this trip so it wouldn't be completely filled in.

We were a little early for the KidCot so we walked around a bit while we waited.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3048.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3049.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3050.jpg

Finally, the KidCot station was open! We needed to hurry because it was almost time for our ADR at Tusker House.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3053.jpg

Up Next - Happy Birthday to Me...Again? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32866450&postcount=1376)

dismagiclover

07-22-2009, 08:35 AM

We love the Safari ride, especially in the morning. My boys are all big animal lovers.
My boys wore that same Goofy shirt on our Animal Kingdom day. Bet we even bought it at the same place:goodvibes

Charleston Princess

07-22-2009, 08:41 AM

Great gorilla pictures!!! I am so jealous that they were awake for you :)!

MRYPPNS

07-22-2009, 08:42 AM

I find that there is no better ride to get stuck on than the safari! Can't wait for your review of Tusker House. I have an ADR for there in October

carissanboys

07-22-2009, 08:43 AM

We love the Safari ride, especially in the morning. My boys are all big animal lovers.
My boys wore that same Goofy shirt on our Animal Kingdom day. Bet we even bought it at the same place:goodvibes

We're all big animal/Animal Planet lovers around here, too. :thumbsup2 I think my stepmother bought that shirt for Owen, but she might have bought it when she was visiting us in MD. ;)

Great gorilla pictures!!! I am so jealous that they were awake for you :)!

I just read about your visit with the gorillas. In fact, I think we posted on each other's TR at EXACTLY the same minute! :rotfl:

carissanboys

07-22-2009, 08:44 AM

I find that there is no better ride to get stuck on than the safari! Can't wait for your review of Tusker House. I have an ADR for there in October

I'll probably get it up in the next few days. Now that I'm getting closer to the end and because I've taken so long to get this far, I'm feeling anxious to finish it up.

Charleston Princess

07-22-2009, 08:54 AM

I just read about your visit with the gorillas. In fact, I think we posted on each other's TR at EXACTLY the same minute! :rotfl:

I think so, too! :laughing:

DisneyMomLiz

07-22-2009, 08:59 AM

Great pictures. We love KS, pretty much our biggest must-do at AK. ;)

Looking forward to your review of Tusker House too, we'll be trying it in September!!

cjackearl

07-22-2009, 09:06 AM

Great safari close ups Carissa! And welcome home, glad you had a nice trip.:)

I like your Grumpy shirt, BTW.

winkers

07-22-2009, 10:58 AM

You really got great shots from the Safari!:thumbsup2
Mine are always a little blury from all the bouncing around!
we seem to miss the trails every time and I don't think I even knew they did kidcot there.

mousescrapper

07-22-2009, 11:25 AM

Hi Carissa,

Nice AK update...your day is starting our alot better than mine (we went 2 days before you) your Day 7) was our Day 8) and I was probably checking out of my room when you were watching the opening show...

We have never completed an AK passport either...

looking forward to your next post and glad you, Chuck and the boys had awonderful weekend away together. The pictures from your Blog are great too!

J-

eandesmom

07-22-2009, 12:33 PM

Great Safari pictures!

It's funny, I can't remember seeing elephants but can't remember NOT seeing them either! Same thing with the Giraffes...which makes me wonder. Did I/ Didn't I? Or was it more missed shots that I just deleted making my memory fuzzy! :)

The E's would love the passports but E2 would get completely hung up on completing it so I guess it's good we skipped it. Still, looks fun!

carissanboys

07-23-2009, 06:23 AM

Great pictures. We love KS, pretty much our biggest must-do at AK. ;)

Looking forward to your review of Tusker House too, we'll be trying it in September!!

KS is even better when the animals are really active. :thumbsup2 Cool - the review should be coming up in a day or so.

Great safari close ups Carissa! And welcome home, glad you had a nice trip.:)

I like your Grumpy shirt, BTW.

Thanks! I liked the color and style, but am not really loving it now. I just don't like the way it fits.

You really got great shots from the Safari!:thumbsup2
Mine are always a little blury from all the bouncing around!
we seem to miss the trails every time and I don't think I even knew they did kidcot there.

They have these cute little passports. And once you fill them all in, you're supposed to be able to turn it in for something. Not sure what?

Hi Carissa,

Nice AK update...your day is starting our alot better than mine (we went 2 days before you) your Day 7) was our Day 8) and I was probably checking out of my room when you were watching the opening show...

We have never completed an AK passport either...

looking forward to your next post and glad you, Chuck and the boys had awonderful weekend away together. The pictures from your Blog are great too!

J-

Thanks Julie! :) I need to get caught up on your TR.

Great Safari pictures!

It's funny, I can't remember seeing elephants but can't remember NOT seeing them either! Same thing with the Giraffes...which makes me wonder. Did I/ Didn't I? Or was it more missed shots that I just deleted making my memory fuzzy! :)

The E's would love the passports but E2 would get completely hung up on completing it so I guess it's good we skipped it. Still, looks fun!

:rotfl: I think giraffes were the ones crossing the road and holping us up. And in order to get a stamp at each station, the kids have to do some sort of activity first.

jmskinner

07-23-2009, 07:01 AM

liznboys

07-23-2009, 09:19 AM

Awww, that's a cute picture of you all in front of the tree of life! :goodvibes

You guys had a fun safari! I was amused by that bird standing on the hippo in the water too. lol

Sully was funny..."I have no idea what's going on right now..no idea." :laughing:

You know when we did the AK passport thing, there was one of the stops that had closed already for the day (I think it was Discovery Island) by the time we were going to head to it. But the lady at the last stop we went to gave us the final stuff (I can't even remember what it was, stamp, sticker??) So that was nice.

mrsksomeday

07-23-2009, 10:15 AM

Great safari pictures!! I always hope we get stuck on it :rotfl:. Now you make me want to check out the kidcot stuff in AK, now I have to research!

Native NYer

07-23-2009, 01:24 PM

It's so great that you got to see so many animals.

How did your boys like the Kidcot stations?

MagicShell

07-24-2009, 10:29 AM

Sorry that you didn't get to see Off Kilter or do Kim Possible. There is just so much to do. I really wanted to see the American Adventure, but just didn't have time. We have never explored much of the World Showcase at all. I know that we will see Japan when we go back because my son had just begun his fascination with Pokemon. He can't wait to see the store in Japan.

I am so glad you all got to see Chuck. I bet that was even better than Disney World!

DisMomAmy

07-25-2009, 06:27 AM

Great safari pictures!! :thumbsup2

carissanboys

07-25-2009, 06:56 AM

All caught up. Sorry you didn't get to do Kim Possible, but I would have been the same way. I wish they had it where you could just walk up and get a communicator. I understand how they are trying to keep it so you don't overlap with other people, but that isn't working either. I'll have more on that in my TR.

I like the before rope drop photopass pic. We surprised the photopass CM that time we got the pic in front of the drawbridge. I like the pics you don't see very often.

The video's were great. I need to try to get one there at the hippos, can never get a picture of them.

I think I would feel lonely riding the boat over to DTD by myself also. I'm sure there was more I wanted to comment on, but the brain seems to be taking a break at the moment.

I'll be curious to see what you have to say about KP. :thumbsup2

Awww, that's a cute picture of you all in front of the tree of life! :goodvibes

You guys had a fun safari! I was amused by that bird standing on the hippo in the water too. lol

Sully was funny..."I have no idea what's going on right now..no idea." :laughing:

You know when we did the AK passport thing, there was one of the stops that had closed already for the day (I think it was Discovery Island) by the time we were going to head to it. But the lady at the last stop we went to gave us the final stuff (I can't even remember what it was, stamp, sticker??) So that was nice.

That's cool. I thought about explaining the situation to the CM at our last stop, but didn't for some reason.

Great safari pictures!! I always hope we get stuck on it :rotfl:. Now you make me want to check out the kidcot stuff in AK, now I have to research!

It's very educational!

It's so great that you got to see so many animals.

How did your boys like the Kidcot stations?

They enjoyed them since my boys are big science fans.

Sorry that you didn't get to see Off Kilter or do Kim Possible. There is just so much to do. I really wanted to see the American Adventure, but just didn't have time. We have never explored much of the World Showcase at all. I know that we will see Japan when we go back because my son had just begun his fascination with Pokemon. He can't wait to see the store in Japan.

I am so glad you all got to see Chuck. I bet that was even better than Disney World!

Well, I don't know if I'd go that far! :rotfl:

Great safari pictures!! :thumbsup2

Thanks Amy :goodvibes

carissanboys

07-25-2009, 08:14 AM

We made our way over to Tusker House for our late breakfast/early lunch. We checked in and received our pager and had a seat. After a few minutes they called all of us to the back seating area where we sat for a bit longer. Then it was time for our family picture, which came out pretty well and I did purchase.

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

I believe our meal was around 10:30 and the restaurant was crazy busy and loud. That's really our only complaint about the whole meal. It was just too loud for us. I much prefer a quieter meal. I know - most character meals aren't what one would call "quiet" but this one was probably the loudest we've been to.

After we were seated we began the shuffle to get our food and still be at the table to greet characters. The food was excellent!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3054.jpg

I tried to get a picture of Connor hugging Daisy, but I was too slow.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3055.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3056.jpg

A nice CM offered to take this for us (not our server, but a man taking care of a table near us). The servers at the restaurant were great.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3057.jpg

Parade time! My boys didn't want to join in.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3060.jpg

Shorly after we had arrived at the restaurant, our waitress quietly asked me who's birthday it was. When I told her it had been mine a few days ago, she said, "Oops! I asked the wrong person!" :rotfl:

So, after we finished eating, look what came my way.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3062.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3063.jpg

Let me tell you - that cupcake was super yummy! I can't remember if I shared or not. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3064.jpg

She even sang Happy Birthday to me (and made the boys sing along)! :goodvibes And she also gave me a birthday card signed by all of the characters - sweet! This meal more than made up for my lacklaster birthday celebration at Kona.

One more character to see before heading out - Goofy!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3065.jpg

Before we left, two twin girls who were sitting near us came over and said, "Happy Birthday!" I thought that was the sweetest thing! :love:

Overall, I'd say we were pleased with the food and service at Tusker House. Just not sure we'd go back (we tend not to repeat character meals anyway) due to the loudness factor. If you want to try it out, but have little ones who might not do well with so much commotion, I would suggest trying for the first seatings of the day. Ours was the last seating and it didn't help any. But, I've seen a review or two where they were there right at opening and it seemed much less chaotic.

We headed out and took some pictures along the way.

The blossoms on this tree were so pretty.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3066.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3067.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3068.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3070.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3071.jpg

So, where were we headed? We were headed to an attraction that Chuck and I had done on our last trip, but the boys had never experienced. Any guesses??

Up Next - The Tree of Life - Up Close and Personal (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33029267&postcount=1418)

DisMomAmy

07-25-2009, 08:27 AM

carissanboys

07-25-2009, 08:31 AM

That's funny... I just posted about our Tusker House breakfast!! We were there for the 1st seating and we were in the little room off to the side of the main room (separated by a half wall so not a totally separate space) against a wall so the commotion wasn't too bad. We felt rushed by the characters though... which I thought was odd for the 1st seating of the day. Maybe they didn't want to get behind??

I'll have to go check yours out. :thumbsup2 We were seated in that same area, but it was still crazy. It definitely got a bit quieter towards the end of the meal as everyone was leaving and no new customers were being seated.

mrsksomeday

07-25-2009, 09:11 AM

Lifelong_Dreamer

07-25-2009, 09:13 AM

You are right, the first seatings are much quieter. We ate right at 8:05 last year and the place was only half full and very calm and quiet. :thumbsup2

Native NYer

07-25-2009, 09:20 AM

Love the family photo with Mickey!

My guess is you're heading either for Expedition Everest or Dinosaur.

KathyRN137

07-25-2009, 09:24 AM

A nice CM offered to take this for us (not our server, but a man taking care of a table near us). The servers at the restaurant were great.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3057.jpg

What a nice family photo!! :goodvibes As the designated photographer in my family, I know that it's wonderful to actually get a chance to be in the shot for a change!!

Hmmm. Are you headed for Flights of Wonder?

Kathy

dismagiclover

07-25-2009, 11:49 AM

Cute Tusker House pictures:goodvibes I just love those Safari outfits. I don't remember Tusker House being any more chaotic than other character meals, but it may be because we had an 8:10 ADR. My guess is you are all heading to Dinosaur:eek:

Charleston Princess

07-25-2009, 11:56 AM

What a great picture of your gang with Mickey and how sweet that you had your birthday celebration extended!

I love the picture in Asia with the blooming tree -- so pretty!

jmskinner

07-25-2009, 01:24 PM

Sorry to hear you didn't fully enjoy Tusker House. I have an ADR for Sept, but thinking of canceling since we cancelled the FD package and went room only that trip.

Love the cupcake and so sweet that those little girls told you Happy Birthday.

Now, I was agreeing with everyone else about EE or Dinosaur, but now wondering, like Kathy, if it could be Flights of Wonder since you posted all of those pics of the birds.

Love the flowering tree. Those are so beautiful.

Fantastic pic with Mickey!

carissanboys

07-25-2009, 02:47 PM

Great installment, I keep telling Bill I want to go to Tusker House, he has no desire at all to go :rotfl:. I loved your pictures. I have no idea where you are going next but can't wait to read about it!

We love Boma for breakfast and I found Tusker House to be similar. That yummy, yummy juice!

You are right, the first seatings are much quieter. We ate right at 8:05 last year and the place was only half full and very calm and quiet. :thumbsup2

That's what I figured. I think we're going to have to try an early morning ADR sometime. I usually like to make them for lunchtime so save money.

Love the family photo with Mickey!

My guess is you're heading either for Expedition Everest or Dinosaur.

Thanks! And nope. ;)

What a nice family photo!! :goodvibes As the designated photographer in my family, I know that it's wonderful to actually get a chance to be in the shot for a change!!

Hmmm. Are you headed for Flights of Wonder?

Kathy

Good guess, but nope. I offered to go to it, but the boys weren't interested.

Cute Tusker House pictures:goodvibes I just love those Safari outfits. I don't remember Tusker House being any more chaotic than other character meals, but it may be because we had an 8:10 ADR. My guess is you are all heading to Dinosaur:eek:

I think early morning ADRs are the way to go at Tusker House. And no, not Dinosaur.

What a great picture of your gang with Mickey and how sweet that you had your birthday celebration extended!

I love the picture in Asia with the blooming tree -- so pretty!

I love that picture. :)

Sorry to hear you didn't fully enjoy Tusker House. I have an ADR for Sept, but thinking of canceling since we cancelled the FD package and went room only that trip.

Love the cupcake and so sweet that those little girls told you Happy Birthday.

Now, I was agreeing with everyone else about EE or Dinosaur, but now wondering, like Kathy, if it could be Flights of Wonder since you posted all of those pics of the birds.

Love the flowering tree. Those are so beautiful.

Fantastic pic with Mickey!

Thanks Melissa! And no - as I said above, not Flights of Wonder. Those birds are actually pretty close to the attraction we were headed to, if I remember correctly. It was after we crossed the bridge.

littlezar

07-25-2009, 03:02 PM

Love the family pic with Mickey!

Yay for more birthday celebrating! That cupcake looks YUMMY!!

Great pics - they look like they could be postcards - so pretty!

cjackearl

07-25-2009, 05:41 PM

Hmm.. Are you headed for It's Tough to be a Bug? Tusker House interests me. An early breakfast there might be fun.:goodvibes Great picture of your family!

carissanboys

07-25-2009, 05:50 PM

Love the family pic with Mickey!

Yay for more birthday celebrating! That cupcake looks YUMMY!!

Great pics - they look like they could be postcards - so pretty!

Thanks! I'd love one of those cupcakes right now. :goodvibes

Hmm.. Are you headed for It's Tough to be a Bug? Tusker House interests me. An early breakfast there might be fun.:goodvibes Great picture of your family!

*ding* *ding* *ding* We have a winner! :thumbsup2

mousescrapper

07-25-2009, 07:19 PM

liznboys

07-25-2009, 10:49 PM

Really cute Tusker House pictures! :) We haven't been there since they changed it.

What a yummy looking cupcake! So sweet about the twin girls!

Waah, I didn't get to guess where you went next! :snooty: (I really didn't have a guess though. lol)

jordanyosh

07-25-2009, 11:39 PM

I still miss the old Tusker House...:sad2:

We generally don't do Character Breakfasts for the very reason that it can get loud. After 17 years working at very popular restaurants, I like my restaurant experience to be a little more sedate....That said, I don't think I've heard one bad thing about the food OR service which might draw me in for their lunch or dinner.

Hmmmm...Dinosaur?

dddisrunner

07-25-2009, 11:47 PM

Great update carissa, I am so happy they made such a fuss for your birthday!!! How cute about the twin little girls too! I agree with you and think the first seating in the morning isn't too bad, I have never had a loud experience at Tusker House in the early am but could definitely see how it would get loud later on in the morning!!:goodvibes LOVE the family picture!:goodvibes

carissanboys

07-26-2009, 06:46 AM

YAY!!!! for the belated birthday cupcake and song! :cool1:

:bday:

I remember our trip in 05 to Disney to celebrate the twins b-days' and I'm not sure if was the day before or after their actual day, but in a CS eating lunch a CM spotted one of the twins b-day pins (back then they had dif ones for each park) and brought over a trading pin and then when we said it was twins, she brought another pin and a HUGE bear paw cup cake for them to share plus got several CM's to sing to them. It will always be a special highlight of mine for them on that trip.

I'm so glad you finally got that special Disney b-day magic!

Love the group shot w/ Mickey so cute!

It's also those special moments that make each trip unique. :goodvibes

Really cute Tusker House pictures! :) We haven't been there since they changed it.

What a yummy looking cupcake! So sweet about the twin girls!

Waah, I didn't get to guess where you went next! :snooty: (I really didn't have a guess though. lol)

I thought you out of anyone might know! ;)

I still miss the old Tusker House...:sad2:

We generally don't do Character Breakfasts for the very reason that it can get loud. After 17 years working at very popular restaurants, I like my restaurant experience to be a little more sedate....That said, I don't think I've heard one bad thing about the food OR service which might draw me in for their lunch or dinner.

Hmmmm...Dinosaur?

We ate at the old Tusker House once and it was very yummy. Our main reason for doing the character meals is it allows us to get pictures with characters without waiting in line. We'll only wait in line for a character if it's very short.

Great update carissa, I am so happy they made such a fuss for your birthday!!! How cute about the twin little girls too! I agree with you and think the first seating in the morning isn't too bad, I have never had a loud experience at Tusker House in the early am but could definitely see how it would get loud later on in the morning!!:goodvibes LOVE the family picture!:goodvibes

Thanks Diane :goodvibes One more birthday surprise to come. ;)

Happydog

07-26-2009, 07:05 AM

Back on track! Okay so it sounds like AK was a winner of a day so far!!! Early arrival, the kid adventure stations (I didn't know they had a "passport" for AK??!!) Nice breakfast/brunch with characters and a cupcake! And now Its a BUGS Life??!! My boys thought that one was a HOOT!... They kept trying to grab stuff!! :laughing: Can't wait to hear your story!!

hhockman

07-27-2009, 02:48 AM

Great update Carissa.

I'm enjoying all the different Tusker House stories. We always did Restaurantasaurus. It was a favorite. So when they moved the breakfast, I just followed. Hope it's as good as it used to be.

And how nice that you got another little birthday surprise.

Looking forward to hearing about ITTBAB. We've never done it, but might try on this trip. :)

DisneyJo

07-27-2009, 02:21 PM

What a shame you missed out on Kim Possible, yet another reason to go back, those excuses are stacking up ;) :rotfl:

Great safari photos and your meal sounds great even if it was too loud!

MagicShell

07-27-2009, 03:31 PM

Tusker House looks like fun. My son is loud, so he should fit right in. We may try it on our next trip. That is a great family picture.

winkers

07-28-2009, 03:02 AM

Great shots in AK!

I've found that character meals are always quiter the first seating.
Even with the noise, it looks like you had a great time. Were they serving breakfast or lunch?

lazydoxy66

07-28-2009, 03:45 AM

Great AK updates! I love the safari.
That cupcake was perfect at TH! It's too bad it was so noisy. I and the BFF are going to the breakfast at 8:15AM during the Sept. trip. I bet it will be crowded due to free dining. I couldn't get the time I wanted on the day I wanted. I had to switch days. It's an EMH morning. It should be interesting.

liznboys

07-28-2009, 02:59 PM

I thought you out of anyone might know! ;)

I felt like I should have known. lol

eandesmom

07-28-2009, 03:45 PM

great update!

Love that you had a lovely birthday cupcake!

I've read so many times that Tusker feels rushed I have to admit that despite raving food reviews, bfast there is not on my list.

Not that I could get my kids there on time anyway....:rotfl2:

DisneyMomLiz

07-28-2009, 04:21 PM

Uh oh :scared: our ADR for Tusker House is at 10:00am our last morning at WDW in Sept! At least the food was good!! ;) and great family pictures :thumbsup2

lisalonglash

07-28-2009, 04:27 PM

Tusker House looks great! Loud atmosphere generally works well for our family, so not really a negative for us :lmao: Our ADR is for 8:00am - soo looking forward to walking through an empty AK and being able to snag FastPasses first thing for the safari! :yay:

I'm glad they recognized your birthday - I'll bet that cupcake tasted mighty sweet :hug:

carissanboys

07-30-2009, 09:15 AM

I'll reply to everyone later. Just wanted to let you know that my brother and his family are arriving today for a week long visit so I won't be around much. I had wanted to get an update posted before they arrived, but it's not going to happen.

Hope you all have a great week/end! :goodvibes

liznboys

07-30-2009, 10:22 AM

Have a great visit with your brother! :goodvibes Enjoy the Bubba's! :teeth:

carissanboys

07-30-2009, 10:53 AM

Just heard from my brother and they're running a bit behind. Everything is ready for them so I may have time to get an update posted afterall.

Back on track! Okay so it sounds like AK was a winner of a day so far!!! Early arrival, the kid adventure stations (I didn't know they had a "passport" for AK??!!) Nice breakfast/brunch with characters and a cupcake! And now Its a BUGS Life??!! My boys thought that one was a HOOT!... They kept trying to grab stuff!! :laughing: Can't wait to hear your story!!

I love to watch the kids (and sometimes adults) reach out for stuff. :goodvibes

Great update Carissa.

I'm enjoying all the different Tusker House stories. We always did Restaurantasaurus. It was a favorite. So when they moved the breakfast, I just followed. Hope it's as good as it used to be.

And how nice that you got another little birthday surprise.

Looking forward to hearing about ITTBAB. We've never done it, but might try on this trip. :)

You definitely should try it.

What a shame you missed out on Kim Possible, yet another reason to go back, those excuses are stacking up ;) :rotfl:

Great safari photos and your meal sounds great even if it was too loud!

They sure are! ;)

Tusker House looks like fun. My son is loud, so he should fit right in. We may try it on our next trip. That is a great family picture.

Thanks!

Great shots in AK!

I've found that character meals are always quiter the first seating.
Even with the noise, it looks like you had a great time. Were they serving breakfast or lunch?

They only do breakfast (with the characters), but I think there were some lunch type items. Lots of variety.

Great AK updates! I love the safari.
That cupcake was perfect at TH! It's too bad it was so noisy. I and the BFF are going to the breakfast at 8:15AM during the Sept. trip. I bet it will be crowded due to free dining. I couldn't get the time I wanted on the day I wanted. I had to switch days. It's an EMH morning. It should be interesting.

I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

I felt like I should have known. lol

:rotfl:

great update!

Love that you had a lovely birthday cupcake!

I've read so many times that Tusker feels rushed I have to admit that despite raving food reviews, bfast there is not on my list.

Not that I could get my kids there on time anyway....:rotfl2:

:rotfl:

Uh oh :scared: our ADR for Tusker House is at 10:00am our last morning at WDW in Sept! At least the food was good!! ;) and great family pictures :thumbsup2

You'll go into knowing it might be loud and busy, but I'm sure you'll still enjoy it.

Tusker House looks great! Loud atmosphere generally works well for our family, so not really a negative for us :lmao: Our ADR is for 8:00am - soo looking forward to walking through an empty AK and being able to snag FastPasses first thing for the safari! :yay:

I'm glad they recognized your birthday - I'll bet that cupcake tasted mighty sweet :hug:

It sure did!

Have a great visit with your brother! :goodvibes Enjoy the Bubba's! :teeth:

Thanks! I found a 12 pack of the onion Bubbas at the commissary for $10! :cool1:

liznboys

07-30-2009, 02:54 PM

Thanks! I found a 12 pack of the onion Bubbas at the commissary for $10! :cool1:

Woot!! I want some!! :)

Goofster57

07-30-2009, 04:16 PM

:car:

mommytothreeboys

07-31-2009, 08:39 AM

Hi Carissa! Long time, no read! ;)

I'm finally catching up...one TR at a time!

Great updates! Sorry about the KP thing, but due to your advice before we left, we picked up our FP at Innoventions and knew right where to go. Thanks for sharing your information....maybe next time you can actually enjoy it!

Love the pics of your boys with Pooh and friends! pooh: They seem to have great interaction when you meet them in the UK...we have seen them there on both trips and been very pleased!

Sorry about missing Off Kilter...you'll just have to continue crushing from a distance for now! :lovestruc

I don't think I'd like shopping at DTD alone either...being at WDW is all about the family and I would have missed them too. I like being in the little "family cocoon" for the time we are there! :grouphug:

Woo-Hoo! :woohoo::woohoo: AK! I'm glad you saw lots of animals on the Safari.....good idea to go in the AM.

We did the character breakfast when it was Restaurantosaurus and it was our favorite character meal of the week. :thumbsup2 I don't remember it being loud there...we sat in a room off to the side though. I had wondered how the meal had changed since moving...thanks for the review. So fun that they celebrated your birthday again! :banana:

I'm glad you had a nice trip and visit with Chuck. How are things going with the whole "single mom" thing? And homeschooling? I feel like I am WAY out of the Carissa-loop!

Back on board and ready for more! popcorn::

wvdislover

07-31-2009, 10:00 AM

All caught up, now. Looks like Epcot went well. Love the masks! Sorry about the KP problems, though, as well as missing Off Kilter :sad2: I guess you'll definitely have to head back soon, so you make sure you get to do those things :rolleyes: Lookes like your AK day started off well, too! Love the idea of the Kidcot stuff there, but not sure if my DD's would get into it. Great homeschooling activities, though :rolleyes: (DD12 gets so irritated when I make so many activities into "school stuff" ) Can't wait to hear your next update...have fun with the fam!
Missy

pamouselover

08-02-2009, 06:11 PM

Hi,
I will have to give tusker house a try on our next trip!
How is V.A been treating you?

LaurenMic

08-03-2009, 01:38 PM

Hi Carissa! Great update as usual. Sorry it was too loud at Tusker House, but that cupcake looks awesome!! Your pictures are great. I had no idea they did Kidcot at AK too, what a great idea! Can't wait to hear what you do next, very mysterious!!

liznboys

08-04-2009, 07:20 PM

:wave2: Hi C! (lol I just realized that sounds like the drink!) Hope your visit is going well! :goodvibes

happymommy

08-05-2009, 06:51 AM

Just wanted to say hi, and that I am really enjoying your report and photos! I can't make it to Disney anytime soon, so this is so fun. We were there a couple of weeks before you were, but didn't take so many photos.

I was wondering (don't know if this question was asked), did you have to buy a one day ticket to get the dining plan, with your military discount?

blue_river

08-05-2009, 07:41 AM

This TR is still going?

Looking forward to some good reading in the evenings now that my holidays are over. :banana:

Missed ya! :goodvibes

carissanboys

08-05-2009, 09:07 AM

:car:

:wave2:

Hi Carissa! Long time, no read! ;)

I'm finally catching up...one TR at a time!

I'm glad you had a nice trip and visit with Chuck. How are things going with the whole "single mom" thing? And homeschooling? I feel like I am WAY out of the Carissa-loop!

Back on board and ready for more! popcorn::

Hey Missy! :hug: I know what you mean. I feel like I'm always behind on TR/PTRs. Ugh!

I'm glad my info helped you with Kim Possible. I look forward to hearing how it went for you guys.

The single mom thing is going okay. Most of the time I deal pretty well. Every once in a while I become overwhelmed. Mostly I just try not to think about it. Homeschooling is going well. We've only completed three weeks of school since we took the trip and had my brother visiting.

All caught up, now. Looks like Epcot went well. Love the masks! Sorry about the KP problems, though, as well as missing Off Kilter :sad2: I guess you'll definitely have to head back soon, so you make sure you get to do those things :rolleyes: Lookes like your AK day started off well, too! Love the idea of the Kidcot stuff there, but not sure if my DD's would get into it. Great homeschooling activities, though :rolleyes: (DD12 gets so irritated when I make so many activities into "school stuff" ) Can't wait to hear your next update...have fun with the fam!
Missy

Thanks! We won't be going back soon, unfortunately. Trying to save for a house.

Hi,
I will have to give tusker house a try on our next trip!
How is V.A been treating you?

It's been super hot and humid!!! Blech!!!

Hi Carissa! Great update as usual. Sorry it was too loud at Tusker House, but that cupcake looks awesome!! Your pictures are great. I had no idea they did Kidcot at AK too, what a great idea! Can't wait to hear what you do next, very mysterious!!

Hey Lauren! Hoping to get an update posted today.

:wave2: Hi C! (lol I just realized that sounds like the drink!) Hope your visit is going well! :goodvibes

Thanks L! ;)

Just wanted to say hi, and that I am really enjoying your report and photos! I can't make it to Disney anytime soon, so this is so fun. We were there a couple of weeks before you were, but didn't take so many photos.

I was wondering (don't know if this question was asked), did you have to buy a one day ticket to get the dining plan, with your military discount?

:welcome: No, we didn't have to buy a one day ticket. Because of the special they're having with the tickets, they allow you to get the 40% off the room and the dining plan without purchasing a package. A great deal!

This TR is still going?

Looking forward to some good reading in the evenings now that my holidays are over. :banana:

Missed ya! :goodvibes

Hey you! I know - hard to believe I've stretched this thing out so long! :rotfl:

carissanboys

08-05-2009, 10:04 AM

I left you wondering where we were headed next. Someone guessed It's Tough to Be a Bug (it's been so long I don't remember who got it right!). :thumbsup2

When Chuck and I had seen it last year with my dad, my camera's battery had already died that day so I didn't get any pictures of the tree. This time I made up for it!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3072.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3073.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3074.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3075.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3076.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3077.jpg

I asked Connor if he would pose for me. This is what I got:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3078.jpg

:rolleyes:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3079.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3080.jpg

Lauren - I thought of you when I took these!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3081.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3082.jpg

The boys loved the show - phew! A teeny, tiny part of me was worried that one of the boys would be scared, but nope. All was good.

As we walked out, we searched for the next Kid's Discovery Club station that we knew was around the Tree of Life.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3085.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3090.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3086.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3087.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3088.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3089.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3091.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3092.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3093.jpg

Up Next - Photopass for One and Front Row Seats (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33072568&postcount=1438)

mousescrapper

08-05-2009, 10:14 AM

hhockman

08-05-2009, 10:26 AM

Great pictures Carissa. I love the one with the boy with the bug on his head. :thumbsup2

They look so intent listening to the lady at the Kids' Discovery Club. Did they enjoy those?

I think we're going to do ITTBAB this time. I hope it goes as well for us as it did for you!

DisneyMomLiz

08-05-2009, 10:30 AM

Great update, Carissa. Love the pics of the tree...those sculptures are so neat. Also, gotta love the "bug-eyes" pics...one of my favs of DS is with his on, see my avatar ;)

MRYPPNS

08-05-2009, 11:07 AM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3087.jpg

OMG! Too funny!!!

Amazing that you can always find more animals in the tree that you haven't seen before....I've never noticed the camel head before!

dismagiclover

08-05-2009, 12:22 PM

We have never gotten up close to the Tree of Life:eek: Next time I am making that a must do. Awesome pictures:goodvibes And make sure to check out my TR. Liznboys finally makes an appearance on Day 5 :goodvibes:

cjackearl

08-05-2009, 01:00 PM

Great pictures of the Tree of Life! I could look at the animal carvings for hours.:goodvibes The Discovery Clubs look fun. I'd never heard of them before.:rolleyes1

LaurenMic

08-05-2009, 01:03 PM

LOVE the bug eye pictures!! That's so funny because I thought of you everytime I saw a Mickey Ice cream sandwich :laughing: Glad the boys weren't scared, I would have been worried too because that show can be overstimulating even for adults, but your guys are so brave!

Lifelong_Dreamer

08-05-2009, 03:23 PM

Great tree shots Car!

I laughed my butt off at the ant/bug eyes picture.:lmao:

jmskinner

08-05-2009, 03:24 PM

We've been missing out on something, how did I not know about the Kids Discovery Centers. Ok, I see a day at AK coming up. You got some great shots of the tree and I have never seen the side those last pics came from. Have to find it also.

eandesmom

08-06-2009, 11:31 AM

GREAT tree pics! We must check out those kid discovery stations next time!!!

KathyRN137

08-06-2009, 12:19 PM

I asked Connor if he would pose for me. This is what I got:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3078.jpg

It's Tough to be a Mom! ;) :laughing:

I never noticed the camel's head carving, either. Probably b/c I haven't been in the ITTBAB queue in like, forever! We'll have to do that this trip.

Love you in your buggy eyewear!!

Kathy

mommytothreeboys

08-06-2009, 02:21 PM

Hi Carissa! I love the Connor "i don't wanna pose and you can't make me" picture! I'm so glad you took it anyway! :thumbsup2

I'm glad I'm not the only one who didn't know about the Kid's Discover Centers at AK. I guess you learn something new everyday...gotta love the DIS!

mnkyboy24

08-06-2009, 03:00 PM

The Animal Kingdom is my second favorite park after EPCOT. There is so many little things to notice as you look around, it never fails to keep me interested. The kids did really well in "A Bugs Life"...besides Carissa and I got to where those stylin' glasses.

carissanboys

08-06-2009, 03:04 PM

Carissa,

nice new update...I have missed looking at the tree up close on the last two trips...so in '10 it is a major must...thanks for sharing your pictutres...they are amazing!

love the bug eyes :thumbsup2

and I'm not sure which boy has the big bug head on him but that is just too funny! :rotfl2:

that would be a good picture to bring in and show at school!

J-

That was Owen. That discovery station is on an "island" and I was across the way, which allowed for a great shot.

Great pictures Carissa. I love the one with the boy with the bug on his head. :thumbsup2

They look so intent listening to the lady at the Kids' Discovery Club. Did they enjoy those?

I think we're going to do ITTBAB this time. I hope it goes as well for us as it did for you!

Yes, they did enjoy listening to the CM and doing the activities.

Great update, Carissa. Love the pics of the tree...those sculptures are so neat. Also, gotta love the "bug-eyes" pics...one of my favs of DS is with his on, see my avatar ;)

Your avatar is so cute! :)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3087.jpg

OMG! Too funny!!!

Amazing that you can always find more animals in the tree that you haven't seen before....I've never noticed the camel head before!

I believe the camel is on the side where you exit. I noticed more than I would have because I was over there waiting while the boys did the discovery station.

We have never gotten up close to the Tree of Life:eek: Next time I am making that a must do. Awesome pictures:goodvibes And make sure to check out my TR. Liznboys finally makes an appearance on Day 5 :goodvibes:

The tree is so amazing!

Great pictures of the Tree of Life! I could look at the animal carvings for hours.:goodvibes The Discovery Clubs look fun. I'd never heard of them before.:rolleyes1

I don't think I knew about the Discovery Club stations until before this trip (and it was our third). I'm sure I heard about it here.

LOVE the bug eye pictures!! That's so funny because I thought of you everytime I saw a Mickey Ice cream sandwich :laughing: Glad the boys weren't scared, I would have been worried too because that show can be overstimulating even for adults, but your guys are so brave!

I miss my Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich avatar.

Great tree shots Car!

I laughed my butt off at the ant/bug eyes picture.:lmao:

:rotfl:

We've been missing out on something, how did I not know about the Kids Discovery Centers. Ok, I see a day at AK coming up. You got some great shots of the tree and I have never seen the side those last pics came from. Have to find it also.

:thumbsup2

GREAT tree pics! We must check out those kid discovery stations next time!!!

You should! And thanks. :)

It's Tough to be a Mom! ;) :laughing:

Kathy

It sure is!! :rotfl:

Hi Carissa! I love the Connor "i don't wanna pose and you can't make me" picture! I'm so glad you took it anyway! :thumbsup2

I'm glad I'm not the only one who didn't know about the Kid's Discover Centers at AK. I guess you learn something new everyday...gotta love the DIS!

I love that picture, too. He cracks me up. When I showed him the picture recently he didn't look impressed. :lmao:

Charleston Princess

08-06-2009, 08:26 PM

That looks like a pose my Connor would strike!!! :lmao:

Love the bug head picture!!! Too cute!!!

I love the bat on the Tree of Life -- I will have to look for that one!

scottny

08-07-2009, 11:31 PM

Hi,
All caught up finally, thanks for the links, and loving it.

The walk pics were gorgeous.

MMM Riversdie Mill and Tusker House, my 2 favorite places.

Your tree pics are gorgeous.

carissanboys

08-08-2009, 07:44 AM

That looks like a pose my Connor would strike!!! :lmao:

Love the bug head picture!!! Too cute!!!

I love the bat on the Tree of Life -- I will have to look for that one!

I'm so glad that I took pictures of animals people hadn't seen before! :cool1:

Hi,
All caught up finally, thanks for the links, and loving it.

The walk pics were gorgeous.

MMM Riversdie Mill and Tusker House, my 2 favorite places.

Your tree pics are gorgeous.

Hey Scott :) Thanks!

OhMari

08-08-2009, 07:56 AM

MeMom

08-08-2009, 07:58 AM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3086.jpg

I like this one. Being a teacher, I like to watch kids' faces when they are absorbing information to see the different expressions.

carissanboys

08-08-2009, 09:03 AM

I finally found the picture I purchased of us at Tusker House. I've added it to the original installment, but figured I'd post it here, too.

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

After the Discovery Club station near The Tree of Life, we headed over to Dinoland to do the one over there. But first, we stopped for a bathroom break and took a few pictures.

(I think Connor took this one.)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3094.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3095.jpg

Never noticed this before:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3096.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3097.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3099.jpg

Little ducklings!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3100.jpg

I left Chuck and the boys at The Boneyard and I went off for a solo walk to get fastpasses for Kali River Rapids (one of our favorites). Along the way I stopped for as many Photopass spots as I could find, but I didn’t like how any of them turned out so I didn’t bother purchasing them. But, I did take lots of pictures while I soaked in the atmosphere. I had never been to this part of the park before.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3101.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3102.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3103.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3104.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3105.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3106.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3107.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3108.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3109.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3110.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3111.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3112.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3113.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3114.jpg

It was time to head back and collect my boys. We needed to head over to Finding Nemo – The Musical. It was on our list of must dos for this trip since we hadn’t been able to work it in last time.

While we were waiting in line, we were treated to some entertainment.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3115.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3116.jpg

Once inside, the CMs were trying to get people to sit in the front rows. I guess a lot of people don’t like to sit there because you don’t get as good of an overall view of the show. But, when the main characters came to the front of the stage, it was so cool to be so close and see their faces full of expression. Needless to say, we grabbed the front row!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3117.jpg

We all loved the show. My favorite was the guy who played Crush. He kind of reminded me of the lead singer from Bare Naked Ladies.

After the show, we were starting to lose steam. It was getting hot out. Time to cool off!!

Up Next – A T-Rex Review (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33172490&postcount=1458)

carissanboys

08-08-2009, 09:14 AM

I love finding your TR, and then getting to read 3 or 4 new posts.
I should of copied the picture you posted of the Tree, but was that a snake? And then you found bats? But they still are amazing pictures.

Hi Marisa! :) I don't think there was a snake. Are you talking about the picture right before the bat - the one with the camel?

I like this one. Being a teacher, I like to watch kids' faces when they are absorbing information to see the different expressions.

I like that picture, too. :goodvibes

MRYPPNS

08-08-2009, 10:15 AM

Great pictures. I love the one of the washing down by the river.

mommytothreeboys

08-08-2009, 11:14 AM

Great AK pictures Carissa. It's the little details of that park that make it great...in my opinion anyway...and you captured those beautifully!

We sat in the front for Nemo too and really enjoyed it. I love the BNL reference! We are big Barenaked Ladies fans...Jeff and I have seen them in concert several times and own all the CDs. :thumbsup2

The Tusker House pic turned out great! A very nice shot of the whole family! :goodvibes

KathyRN137

08-08-2009, 05:06 PM

Never noticed this before:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3096.jpg

Hmmm, me neither!
It was fun to go on a photo-safari with you!

Cooling off always sounds good after a day at Animal Kingdom! Watch out for those guys on the bridge pressing buttons!!

Kathy

hhockman

08-08-2009, 05:18 PM

Great installment Carissa! I love the picture filled ones. Makes me feel like I'm there (which is the point of pictures, of course :thumbsup2).

The Tusker House picture came out very nice. I can see why you bought it.

We enjoyed Nemo when we saw it last time as well. I don't remember that much though, so we'll probably see it again.

Looking forward to seeing how wet you got on Kali!

Charleston Princess

08-08-2009, 10:55 PM

Love all the photos from Asia! I always enjoy seeing pictures from Animal Kingdom! It's just so rich in details!

dismagiclover

08-09-2009, 03:39 PM

Cute pictures! Love all the details (except maybe not the rat planter:eek:) Can't wait to hear what you thought of T Rexpopcorn::

hhockman

08-09-2009, 08:15 PM

I don't know HOW I missed the part that says "A T-Rex Review". COOL! We're doing that as our very first thing, so I'm interested to see what your boys thought of it. :thumbsup2

jmskinner

08-10-2009, 06:39 AM

Great pictures of AK. Got a lot of angles I never have. I'll have to check out Nemo from the front. I liked the guy that plays Crush also. I've seen it twice and both times it was the same guy.

Angies1274

08-10-2009, 07:22 AM

I was so behind, but I'm finally caught up now.:goodvibes

Great Animal Kingdom pictures!!:thumbsup2 Your Tusker House breakfast looked fun!! Yay! for getting a birthday cupcake!!

We made a point last trip to explore the trails around the Tree of Life. My boys had a great time finding all the different animals.;)Love your pics!!

We love the Finding Nemo Musical!! That's awesome that you got front row seats!! Glad to hear you enjoyed the show!!

Can't wait for more..popcorn::

carissanboys

08-10-2009, 07:25 AM

Great pictures. I love the one of the washing down by the river.

That area is so cool. Hard to believe it was my first time seeing any of that in three trips.

Great AK pictures Carissa. It's the little details of that park that make it great...in my opinion anyway...and you captured those beautifully!

We sat in the front for Nemo too and really enjoyed it. I love the BNL reference! We are big Barenaked Ladies fans...Jeff and I have seen them in concert several times and own all the CDs. :thumbsup2

The Tusker House pic turned out great! A very nice shot of the whole family! :goodvibes

BNL rock. :thumbsup2 Do you have their children's CD too?

Hmmm, me neither!
It was fun to go on a photo-safari with you!

Cooling off always sounds good after a day at Animal Kingdom! Watch out for those guys on the bridge pressing buttons!!

Kathy

:rotfl: Guess what we bought Saturday?? A new Stitch. :stitch: The boys (especially Connor) were really missing him so I used my Disney Rewards card and bought one. Ours is bigger than the Cali Stitch, but the boys are happy.

Great installment Carissa! I love the picture filled ones. Makes me feel like I'm there (which is the point of pictures, of course :thumbsup2).

The Tusker House picture came out very nice. I can see why you bought it.

We enjoyed Nemo when we saw it last time as well. I don't remember that much though, so we'll probably see it again.

Looking forward to seeing how wet you got on Kali!

It is painfully expensive to buy those character meal pictures, but we've never had professional family photos done so I look at it as a good investment. ;)

Love all the photos from Asia! I always enjoy seeing pictures from Animal Kingdom! It's just so rich in details!

Thanks Jackie - I agree.

Cute pictures! Love all the details (except maybe not the rat planter:eek:) Can't wait to hear what you thought of T Rexpopcorn::

Coming up soon - I hope.

I don't know HOW I missed the part that says "A T-Rex Review". COOL! We're doing that as our very first thing, so I'm interested to see what your boys thought of it. :thumbsup2

:thumbsup2

Great pictures of AK. Got a lot of angles I never have. I'll have to check out Nemo from the front. I liked the guy that plays Crush also. I've seen it twice and both times it was the same guy.

The music is great!

carissanboys

08-10-2009, 07:26 AM

littlezar

08-10-2009, 08:24 AM

Never noticed this before:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3096.jpg

That's kinda cool! (You know with all these boys, it shouldn't be surprising that I like that! LOL!!)

Don't think I commented on the last update, but I love the way your boys pose for pics!

Saw your comment about family pics...yeah, we really need to get some done. The last set had my now 3 year old as a 6 month old. Of course, we had all those family shots taken at Disney so that buys me some time!

mousescrapper

08-10-2009, 08:43 AM

Glad you found your TH picture...thanks for sharing...that is a nice family shot :thumbsup2

Ok the rat-plant-pot is uh....kinda gross....sorry :confused3

though Michael would think it is quite cool, he keeps asking for a pet rat or gerbil, or guinea pig....I'm like NO! He got fish for his birthday and he likes them, but the poor guy 2 died due to ick last week. We hope #3 makes it.

I'll have to find that rat-thing nxt yr he'd be impressed w/ me and I'll give kuddos to you :)

looking forward to the rest of your day!

Scrappie (J-)

MagicShell

08-11-2009, 10:24 AM

I like Connor's pose. I also have a Conor, but he LOVES to pose for pictures. He is always wanting me to take pictures of him. I am glad you got to see the Nemo show. I think it is a really cute show.

lisalonglash

08-11-2009, 10:47 AM

Gorgeous TH picture of you all :goodvibes I love seeing what pictures my boys take with the camera - surprising little details show up that I never would have noticed :thumbsup2 Lovely solo walk you were able to have - fantastic pictures, as always! Glad you enjoyed Nemo! That's not on our list, but who know, it could happen LOL

Cooling off sounds like a good plan - back to the resort for a swim perhaps? T-Rex looks cool! It had just opened when we were there last trip, but we went to the Rainforest Cafe instead - I'm looking forward to your review and pictures! :banana:

DisneyJo

08-11-2009, 03:00 PM

Great AK day and lovely photos, sounds as though you loved your seats in Nemo :thumbsup2

Goofster57

08-12-2009, 02:39 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3082.jpg

I only have eyes for you....

(I think Connor took this one.)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3094.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3095.jpg

So did the boys end up with some new instrument to help with their Musical studies in school?

Nice updates Carissa

carissanboys

08-14-2009, 12:22 PM

Don't think I commented on the last update, but I love the way your boys pose for pics!

Owen has this way of always tilting his head to the side for pictures. :rotfl:

Glad you found your TH picture...thanks for sharing...that is a nice family shot :thumbsup2

Ok the rat-plant-pot is uh....kinda gross....sorry :confused3

though Michael would think it is quite cool, he keeps asking for a pet rat or gerbil, or guinea pig....I'm like NO! He got fish for his birthday and he likes them, but the poor guy 2 died due to ick last week. We hope #3 makes it.

I'll have to find that rat-thing nxt yr he'd be impressed w/ me and I'll give kuddos to you :)

looking forward to the rest of your day!

Scrappie (J-)

I just love that there are so many details that I see new things on every trip. :thumbsup2

I like Connor's pose. I also have a Conor, but he LOVES to pose for pictures. He is always wanting me to take pictures of him. I am glad you got to see the Nemo show. I think it is a really cute show.

The only one of mine who really likes to pose for pictures is Owen.

Gorgeous TH picture of you all :goodvibes I love seeing what pictures my boys take with the camera - surprising little details show up that I never would have noticed :thumbsup2 Lovely solo walk you were able to have - fantastic pictures, as always! Glad you enjoyed Nemo! That's not on our list, but who know, it could happen LOL

Cooling off sounds like a good plan - back to the resort for a swim perhaps? T-Rex looks cool! It had just opened when we were there last trip, but we went to the Rainforest Cafe instead - I'm looking forward to your review and pictures! :banana:

Nemo should be on your list! It's a great show.

I'll get an update posted this weekend.

Great AK day and lovely photos, sounds as though you loved your seats in Nemo :thumbsup2

:)

So did the boys end up with some new instrument to help with their Musical studies in school?

Nice updates Carissa

Uh no. They already have plenty of that stuff at home. ;)

carissanboys

08-15-2009, 12:59 PM

(I found two more pictures that should have gone in the last installment – right at the end – and added them in.)

It was time to use our fastpasses for Kali River Rapids – one of our favorite rides! We were very excited this year because we could all ride together. Unfortunately, Connor decided he didn’t want to ride. I told Chuck that he could ride after us with Sully or Owen, but he declined. He did get pictures of us! We had a fun group with us and thankfully didn’t get too wet.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3119.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3120.jpg

To help us cool off even more, we got some ice cream sandwiches to eat. We had one last Discovery Station to visit over near Camp Minnie/Mickey. With our mission accomplished we decided to head out of the park.

On our way out, we spotted this giant anteater.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3122.jpg

He kept walking around in circles and he moved pretty fast for an anteater. I never did get a very good shot.

Back at the resort we opened our room door and were greeted with…

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3124.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3125.jpg

I guessed it was a dog of some sort.

We relaxed in the room for about an hour and then decided to head to Downtown Disney for dinner. We thought about eating at Wolfgang Puck Express again, but I thought maybe I’d try and see if we could get into T-Rex. We were in luck – no wait!

The atmosphere is very cool. It is loud in there, but you know that going into the meal. The activity books they gave the boys were pretty long and kept them busy. Chuck and I had the steak and cheese sandwich and they were very good. The plates that the kids’ meals came on were really cute.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3136.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3137.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3138.jpg

I had to take a picture of the restroom doors. They were labeled He-Rex and She-Rex.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3139.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3140.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3126.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3127.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3128.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3131.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3132.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3134.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3135.jpg

We were very happy with our meal and headed to the Lego store. It was a gorgeous evening! The perfect temperature with a breeze blowing – heavenly. The boys spent some time building, and we also picked out a birthday present for our nephew.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3141.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3142.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3143.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3144.jpg

Before getting on the boat, we bought some popcorn in a bucket to bring back to the room with us. On the way back, our driver told us that the sea serpent at the French Quarter’s pool is called Scales and it was in Mardi Gras before it made WDW its home. (Sorry if I already mentioned that.)

Back at the resort, Chuck took the boys to the room while I mailed off the postcards I had written earlier. Then I bought a few pins and a charm bracelet for our niece.

Up Next – Sea World in the Rain (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33183605&postcount=1470)

Lifelong_Dreamer

08-15-2009, 04:05 PM

Glad to read a positive review of T-Rex. We want to eat there on our next trip in a few years. :thumbsup2

Goofy442

08-15-2009, 04:32 PM

Looking at your pictures it seems that T-Rex is somewhat dark inside, is it like the Rain Forest Cafe?

cjackearl

08-15-2009, 04:42 PM

After looking at your anteater picture, that's what I assumed your towel animal was!:laughing:

The kid's mashed potatos at T-Rex look delicious!

dismagiclover

08-15-2009, 05:20 PM

Your boys look pretty wet on Kali to me:laughing: Sounds like a great DTD evening:thumbsup2

carissanboys

08-15-2009, 05:53 PM

Glad to read a positive review of T-Rex. We want to eat there on our next trip in a few years. :thumbsup2

I'm not a fan of The Rainforest Cafe's food, so I decided to stick with a sandwich at T-Rex and it really was delicious. You're really going for the atmosphere anyway, but it was nice that the food was tasty. :thumbsup2

Looking at your pictures it seems that T-Rex is somewhat dark inside, is it like the Rain Forest Cafe?

I'm not sure to be honest. I don't remember it looking that dark when we were there.

After looking at your anteater picture, that's what I assumed your towel animal was!:laughing:

The kid's mashed potatos at T-Rex look delicious!

They do, don't they!

Your boys look pretty wet on Kali to me:laughing: Sounds like a great DTD evening:thumbsup2

I know. When I went back and looked at the picture, I thought Owen looked pretty drenched. :rotfl: But, my notes say we didn't get very wet. :confused3

jmskinner

08-15-2009, 06:11 PM

You and pics of the bathrooms.:lmao: I love it. We need to try T-Rex. Sounds like you had a very nice DTD evening. And I didn't know about the sea serpent.

Charleston Princess

08-15-2009, 07:56 PM

Very cool pictures from T-Rex! Now I want to eat there!

I didn't know that about the serpent and Mardi Gras -- very interesting! :thumbsup2

MeMom

08-15-2009, 09:09 PM

Very cool pictures from T-Rex! Now I want to eat there!

I didn't know that about the serpent and Mardi Gras -- very interesting! :thumbsup2

I didn't know that, either. It's fun to learn new Disney things, although they say the bus drivers are known for not always being so right. :laughing: Maybe this one was right, and it's a fun fact - true or not! :)

I think T-Rex would be a perfect place to go eat with three boys! :thumbsup2

MRYPPNS

08-15-2009, 09:37 PM

Your steak and cheese looked delish!

lazydoxy66

08-15-2009, 09:47 PM

Your AK day sounded and looked wonderful! Your boys are so cute. You can tell they are thinking, "OK, mom, enough with the camera already!"

What did they think of T-Rex? I would think that boys especially would think that the dinos were cool. It looked like you got a lot of food. I'm glad to hear good things about it. I'm thinking we may stop in at the bar for drinks and some snacks.

carissanboys

08-16-2009, 09:09 AM

You and pics of the bathrooms.:lmao: I love it. We need to try T-Rex. Sounds like you had a very nice DTD evening. And I didn't know about the sea serpent.

They were too funny NOT to take a picture! Although, there were quite a few people around and I almost chickened out.

Very cool pictures from T-Rex! Now I want to eat there!

I didn't know that about the serpent and Mardi Gras -- very interesting! :thumbsup2

I loved learning details like that on this trip.

I didn't know that, either. It's fun to learn new Disney things, although they say the bus drivers are known for not always being so right. :laughing: Maybe this one was right, and it's a fun fact - true or not! :)

I think T-Rex would be a perfect place to go eat with three boys! :thumbsup2

I'll have to do some research now to see if it's true! ;)

Your steak and cheese looked delish!

It was!

Your AK day sounded and looked wonderful! Your boys are so cute. You can tell they are thinking, "OK, mom, enough with the camera already!"

What did they think of T-Rex? I would think that boys especially would think that the dinos were cool. It looked like you got a lot of food. I'm glad to hear good things about it. I'm thinking we may stop in at the bar for drinks and some snacks.

The boys loved it. :thumbsup2

carissanboys

08-16-2009, 01:59 PM

Here are some of the pins we either traded or bought on the trip:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4826.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4827.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4828.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4829.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4830.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4831.jpg

These are the two that I bought for myself (in addition to the F & G one):

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_5019.jpg

carissanboys

08-16-2009, 02:06 PM

~ April 3, 2009 ~

We woke up early on our last full day at WDW. We headed over to the food court and used counter service credits for breakfast (since we paid OOP for our dinner at T-Rex, we still had the CS credits we were going to use at WPE). My notes say the biscuits were good and they do serve Mickey waffles. So, there ya go. :thumbsup2

We had no problems finding our way to Sea World and it only took a few minutes. We arrived at 8 a.m., but they didn’t let us through to park until 8:30 (the park was opening at 9). I was quite surprised by this. It cost us $12 to park.

When we got to the ticket area I was surprised and happy to see that they even had a separate line for military. There were some lovely former military men who worked there and helped answer questions and say thank you for our service. At 8:45 the ticket booth opened up. We got 4 free tickets and just had to pay $55 for Connor.

And then we went to go through the turnstiles. Chuck went through with Sully at a different one, but I had Owen (and maybe Connor – don’t remember) with me. This employee proceeded to ask me for Owen’s i.d card. The military will not give an i.d. card to a child until they’re ten years old. I told the employee this and he questioned me and basically told me I was wrong. To say I was upset was an understatement. Don’t tell a military spouse she doesn’t know what she’s talking about when it comes to military dependent stuff!! He called someone else over and she said if he was under ten it was okay for him to go through without an i.d. No apology or anything. This really gave me a bad feeling for the start of the day. :mad:

At this point, it was pouring outside. I mean POURING. Luckily, we came prepared. See my happy gang??

(I must apologize for the blurriness of these first few photos. I didn’t realize until later that I had my camera on the wrong setting.)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4832.jpg

The first thing we did was find the stingrays. I was really hoping to feed them. My notes say we did feed them, but these pictures are so blurry you can’t see much.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4833.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4834.jpg

After the stingrays, we headed over to the manatees. They were actually being fed when we arrived (I think they were eating heads of cabbage) and we were able to stand under a covered area to watch.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4837.jpg

We decided to head inside the nearest building and hope that the rain would let up shortly. We were able to see the manatees under the water.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4838.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4841.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4842.jpg

We always joke how Chuck is the pack mule for the family. When he had his poncho on over his backpack, it just made for such a funny look that I had to take a picture (and this one is really blurry, but you’ll get the idea).

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4844.jpg

I’m not sure what that is on his leg. Almost looks like a tattoo in this picture! Must have been a stray leaf that stuck to his leg in the rain.

When we finally made it out of the building, we saw that the rain had let up. We headed over to catch the Clyde and Seamore show. We all enjoyed it and laughed quite a bit.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4858.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4859.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4861.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4865.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4852.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4854.jpg

Up Next – Walk Like a Penguin (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33674736&postcount=1538)

lisalonglash

08-16-2009, 02:07 PM

hhockman

08-16-2009, 02:17 PM

LOVE the Sea World pictures Carissa! We got to Sea World every trip. Will actually likes Sea World more than Disney. He has loved Whales his entire life and has a special place in his heart for Shamu. Unfortunately, we can't swing it $$$ wise this time, so I'm hoping he forgets how close Sea World and Disney are to each other. :rolleyes1

We're going back to Orlando next June and are doing half Disney, half Sea World/Universal, so he'll see his beloved Shamu, just not a month from now.

Thanks for the pictures! I've been missing Sea World myself.

P.S. Sorry they gave you a hard time about getting in. That's just weird. In my experience they usually aren't like that. And why would you be trying to "sneak" a kid that's not yours in anyway. You had your ID, that should be enough. :confused3

Lifelong_Dreamer

08-16-2009, 02:25 PM

:headache: That would have been really irritating getting questioned like that about the id. It reminds me of our trip in 07 when TSA at MCO did not want to accept that Alek and Erich's government issued photo-id health card was a valid form of id. :rolleyes::headache:

carissanboys

08-16-2009, 02:30 PM

My goodness - it sure feels like I have been neglecting my TR and Disboards in general these past few months. I thought I should take a minute to give you an update on how things are going around here.

We are gearing up for a short visit home from Chuck over Labor Day weekend. It has been two months since he left for Florida and while the meet up in Georgia was wonderful, it'll be nice to have him home for a few days. :love:

The boys and I continue with school work. We've only completed four weeks since we've been taking time off for trips and visits. But, that's why I decided to homeschool year round - to have that flexibility. :thumbsup2 We'll be taking a trip up to Maine in October to visit with family and friends and shortly after our return, Chuck should be finished with school. :goodvibes

The boys, Connor especially, have really been missing Stitch. So, the other day we went to the Disney Store and I used my rewards card to buy our own Stitch. He's a bit bigger than our previous visitor, but just as cute.

http://i703.photobucket.com/albums/ww34/willtravelbyfoot/Picture645.jpg

I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer! I'd love to hear what exciting adventures you had these past couple of months. :goodvibes

carissanboys

08-16-2009, 02:41 PM

Another awesome update with fantastic pictures, Carissa! :thumbsup2 Lucky you for not getting too wet on Kali - we got soaked :laughing: What a cute towel animal - isn't it fun when the mousekeepers do neat things for you to come back to?!

I'm glad you all enjoyed T-Rex - it looks really cool! Love the bathroom picture :rotfl2:

The Lego Store is our personal "black hole" - our boys go in and never want to come out :lmao: How cool about the serpent - never knew that.

Oh no, sorry in advance for the rain the next day... :sad2:

Thanks Lisa! We had a lot of fun anticipating what our mousekeeper would leave for us each day. :)

LOVE the Sea World pictures Carissa! We got to Sea World every trip. Will actually likes Sea World more than Disney. He has loved Whales his entire life and has a special place in his heart for Shamu. Unfortunately, we can't swing it $$$ wise this time, so I'm hoping he forgets how close Sea World and Disney are to each other. :rolleyes1

We're going back to Orlando next June and are doing half Disney, half Sea World/Universal, so he'll see his beloved Shamu, just not a month from now.

Thanks for the pictures! I've been missing Sea World myself.

P.S. Sorry they gave you a hard time about getting in. That's just weird. In my experience they usually aren't like that. And why would you be trying to "sneak" a kid that's not yours in anyway. You had your ID, that should be enough. :confused3

I don't know if we would have gone to Sea World if we'd had to pay for all of us. It was a fun experience and I do wish we'd had another day to tour so we didn't have to cram everything into one.

:headache: That would have been really irritating getting questioned like that about the id. It reminds me of our trip in 07 when TSA at MCO did not want to accept that Alek and Erich's government issued photo-id health card was a valid form of id. :rolleyes::headache:

I ended up getting asked to take a survey later in the day and you can bet I let him know about my experience. He said they tell the employees all of the time about under 10 not needing a military i.d., but they don't seem to get it. It wasn't an issue when we purchased the tickets, so why should they care when we go through the gate???

dismagiclover

08-16-2009, 03:06 PM

Charleston Princess

08-16-2009, 03:10 PM

Love the pins you bought and traded -- especially the Davy Jones one!

I would have been peeved about the military ID as well -- you would think they would know this already -- surely you were not the first person to go through the turnstiles with someone under 10. :headache:

The Clyde and Seamore show looks very cute!

Stitch looks like a great addition to your family! :goodvibes

mousescrapper

08-16-2009, 04:45 PM

Hi Carissa and family,

so wonderful that Chuck will be home again soon for another visit...:goodvibes

love the (blury) picture of him as the pack-mule w/ his new "tatoo" ;)

Isn't it so fun w/ Mousekeeping has fun w/ your pals left in the roon and cute dog-towel-creation!

The end of AK sounded nice and :thumbsup2 for completed all the Kid stations...did they get a prize in the end :confused3

being so close to the Marketplace must have been so nice, we enjoyed that proximity too during our stay in 05 but I have to admit w/ my new disney "home" I'm gonna love my new proximity choice of MK :goodvibes

I didn't know you ventured off to Sea World...I went there back in the 80's...though I'm sure it is a lot different now. Hope the rain stops and you guys have a good rest of the day.

I'll be doing an end of summer report in my TR soon as I wrap that up as well. School starts for us on the 25th.

J-

cjackearl

08-16-2009, 05:48 PM

Chuck looks like the Hunchback of Seaworld!

I like the looks of the Clyde and Seamore show.

Cute picture of Connor and Stitch.:goodvibes

I'm glad homeschooling is going well and you're able to take advantage of your flexibility to have some family fun.:thumbsup2

I hope your next family time with Chuck is wonderful. You must miss him, and he you all, tremendously.:hug:

irene_dsc

08-17-2009, 02:06 PM

Catching up here...

T-Rex looks pretty cool! I don't think I've seen pics of the inside before. Definitely something to consider for the next trip, whenever we can swing it. We weren't brave enough to let ds see the Lego store last time, lol.

I love the matching yellow Mickey jackets! Too bad you had to use them, but at least the boys looked cool in the process.

And pooh on the silly guys at Seaworld, mucking with your day.

I'm not surprised you haven't been keeping up with everything, considering everything else you are doing! Let's see...unpacking, homeschooling, single-mom'ing...

mnkyboy24

08-17-2009, 03:34 PM

I had forgot how hard it rained that day. After about an hour or so, the rest of the day was fine. Feeding the stingrays was quite fun. The manatees was pretty cool...very peaceful and relaxing.

liznboys

08-17-2009, 03:50 PM

HI :)

reply to your 8/5 update...

HA! Love Connor's pose!

That was the one Kids Discovery spot that we didn't get to do.

8/8...

That is a GREAT family picture of you guys at Tusker!!!! :thumbsup2:goodvibes

I've never seen that planter with all the rats climbing out either!

We sat in the very front row when we saw Nemo too! It was an interesting experience being that close.

8/15...

Fun pix on Kali!! :yay:

Ewww, that beetle in TRex!

Ha, I took a picture of that Mickey head in the green fence too.

Love the pins. One of my boys liked that Mickey as Jack Skellington pin.

8/16...

Sorry about that guy at the Sea World gate, grrr.

Looks like you saw some neat stuff that morning.

Welcome to your family, Stitch! :)

eandesmom

08-18-2009, 10:17 AM

~ April 3, 2009 ~

And then we went to go through the turnstiles. Chuck went through with Sully at a different one, but I had Owen (and maybe Connor – don’t remember) with me. This employee proceeded to ask me for Owen’s i.d card. The military will not give an i.d. card to a child until they’re ten years old. I told the employee this and he questioned me and basically told me I was wrong. To say I was upset was an understatement. Don’t tell a military spouse she doesn’t know what she’s talking about when it comes to military dependent stuff!! He called someone else over and she said if he was under ten it was okay for him to go through without an i.d. No apology or anything. This really gave me a bad feeling for the start of the day. :mad:

We always joke how Chuck is the pack mule for the family. When he had his poncho on over his backpack, it just made for such a funny look that I had to take a picture (and this one is really blurry, but you’ll get the idea).

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4844.jpg

I would have been livid, so glad it got handled! :rotfl: on the pack mule. We have one of those too. Although more often than not, it's me! Looks like you had a lot of fun, despite the rain.

My goodness - it sure feels like I have been neglecting my TR and Disboards in general these past few months. I thought I should take a minute to give you an update on how things are going around here.

We are gearing up for a short visit home from Chuck over Labor Day weekend. It has been two months since he left for Florida and while the meet up in Georgia was wonderful, it'll be nice to have him home for a few days. :love:

The boys and I continue with school work. We've only completed four weeks since we've been taking time off for trips and visits. But, that's why I decided to homeschool year round - to have that flexibility. :thumbsup2 We'll be taking a trip up to Maine in October to visit with family and friends and shortly after our return, Chuck should be finished with school. :goodvibes

The boys, Connor especially, have really been missing Stitch. So, the other day we went to the Disney Store and I used my rewards card to buy our own Stitch. He's a bit bigger than our previous visitor, but just as cute.

http://i703.photobucket.com/albums/ww34/willtravelbyfoot/Picture645.jpg

I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer! I'd love to hear what exciting adventures you had these past couple of months. :goodvibes

I'm so glad you got your own Stitch! Homeschooling sounds like a good fit for your family, I couldn't do it but I think it can be a wonderful thing. I'm glad you don't have to wait until October to see Chuck!

We've been busy, lots of little trips and 2 more coming and then for us, it's back to school and hopefully, soon, a new job for me!

littlezar

08-18-2009, 10:59 AM

Sounds like Sea World was an overall good day for the most part!

UGH on the ID card! When we went, I had given my DH my ID card & license to keep in his wallet since I wasn't gonna carry a purse all week. I didn't even consider that I might need my oldest two's ID cards (11 & 13 at the time) My 11 yr old had no problem, my 13 yr old (who's taller than I am) was stopped and asked for ID. I said "Are you kidding? My oldest never uses his ID card so we didn't even bring it." I then offered to go swap out the kiddie ticket I bought for my then 7 yr old and change it to an adult one so we wouldn't have an issue (apparently they didn't realize my 2nd son was old enough to have an ID card and didn't ask for his) and a supervisor/manager person came over and said to let us through and apologized. We loved the Seamore & Clyde show. Did you see the Believe show, too? We happened upon it a few minutes before starting and had "nosebleed" seats but the boys still enjoyed it.

Goofster57

08-18-2009, 03:20 PM

Hey Carissa,

Nice updates,

I liked your pin choices.

I always enjoy Sea World out here in San Diego, we have never gone to the one in Orlando...maybe someday.

So I see you're adding a bit more Stitch guilt.....LOL

jordanyosh

08-19-2009, 12:24 AM

Sea World and rain......it doesn't look like the rain put too much of a damper on things.:thumbsup2

Did I know you homeschooled...?

MeMom

08-19-2009, 05:17 AM

I'm glad you guys have your own Stitch now. I know he is happy to be living wit such an awesome family, and he's in for many fun adventures with the boys, I'm sure!

Sorry you were treated less than kindly at the SeaWorld entrance. I am glad it was quickly resolved, but I can see where you would be slightly aggravated. :)

We want to get over to SeaWorld in the next couple of years. Brooklynn would love it, and the last time I went was I can't remember how many years ago! It's just hard to go over there and spend more money when the Disney options are already paid for.

I'm glad Chuck gets to spend some time at home and that you get to go spend time with family. That gives you two great things to look forward to, and then when that's done, it'll be about time for Dad to get back home for good. :thumbsup2

I'm happy you are getting to spend so much time with the boys through the homeschooling. I bet they are loving it! Are you planning to do it for the whole year, or just until Chuck gets back?

What kind of new job are you thinking of?

Take care of yourself. You're a strong girl, and your guys are all blessed to have such a good Mom!

MagicShell

08-19-2009, 02:01 PM

I enjoyed your updates. I am glad you all are going to get to spend some time as a family over the holiday.

carissanboys

08-19-2009, 05:28 PM

We've never been to Sea World but I'd really like to go someday. Sorry it rained on you, but glad it cleared up. And yah for a weekend visit from Chuck! I'm sure single parenting gets old:hug: What a cute picture of Connor with Stitch:goodvibes The flexibility of home schooling would really be great! I hope you get more chances to enjoy it:goodvibes

Yes, it definitely gets a bit old sometimes!

Love the pins you bought and traded -- especially the Davy Jones one!

I would have been peeved about the military ID as well -- you would think they would know this already -- surely you were not the first person to go through the turnstiles with someone under 10. :headache:

The Clyde and Seamore show looks very cute!

Stitch looks like a great addition to your family! :goodvibes

He is - hopefully he'll keep the mischief to a minimum.

Hi Carissa and family,
The end of AK sounded nice and :thumbsup2 for completed all the Kid stations...did they get a prize in the end :confused3

J-

No, because we didn't do the station at Rafiki's Planet Watch.

Chuck looks like the Hunchback of Seaworld!

I like the looks of the Clyde and Seamore show.

Cute picture of Connor and Stitch.:goodvibes

I'm glad homeschooling is going well and you're able to take advantage of your flexibility to have some family fun.:thumbsup2

I hope your next family time with Chuck is wonderful. You must miss him, and he you all, tremendously.:hug:

Thanks! Yes, we do. :goodvibes

Catching up here...
I love the matching yellow Mickey jackets! Too bad you had to use them, but at least the boys looked cool in the process.

And pooh on the silly guys at Seaworld, mucking with your day.

I'm not surprised you haven't been keeping up with everything, considering everything else you are doing! Let's see...unpacking, homeschooling, single-mom'ing...

I know - I should do better. ;)

I got the jackets for our first trip back in 2007 on clearance through the Disney store online. They were pretty much too big for the boys back then. Now they're almost too small.

I had forgot how hard it rained that day. After about an hour or so, the rest of the day was fine. Feeding the stingrays was quite fun. The manatees was pretty cool...very peaceful and relaxing.

Poured cats and dogs.

HI :)

I've never seen that planter with all the rats climbing out either!

We sat in the very front row when we saw Nemo too! It was an interesting experience being that close.
:)

Welcome home! :goodvibes I can't believe I have a picture of something you've never seen before! :banana:

We've been busy, lots of little trips and 2 more coming and then for us, it's back to school and hopefully, soon, a new job for me!

A new job? How exciting!

Sounds like Sea World was an overall good day for the most part!

UGH on the ID card! When we went, I had given my DH my ID card & license to keep in his wallet since I wasn't gonna carry a purse all week. I didn't even consider that I might need my oldest two's ID cards (11 & 13 at the time) My 11 yr old had no problem, my 13 yr old (who's taller than I am) was stopped and asked for ID. I said "Are you kidding? My oldest never uses his ID card so we didn't even bring it." I then offered to go swap out the kiddie ticket I bought for my then 7 yr old and change it to an adult one so we wouldn't have an issue (apparently they didn't realize my 2nd son was old enough to have an ID card and didn't ask for his) and a supervisor/manager person came over and said to let us through and apologized. We loved the Seamore & Clyde show. Did you see the Believe show, too? We happened upon it a few minutes before starting and had "nosebleed" seats but the boys still enjoyed it.

Yes, we did see Believe. That's coming up in the next installment or two. :thumbsup2

Hey Carissa,

Nice updates,

I liked your pin choices.

I always enjoy Sea World out here in San Diego, we have never gone to the one in Orlando...maybe someday.

So I see you're adding a bit more Stitch guilt.....LOL

Take it as you will. :rolleyes1

Sea World and rain......it doesn't look like the rain put too much of a damper on things.:thumbsup2

Did I know you homeschooled...?

Probably not. We homeschooled Sully for kindergarten and first, but they've been in public school for the past two years. We just decided to try it again this year.

I'm glad Chuck gets to spend some time at home and that you get to go spend time with family. That gives you two great things to look forward to, and then when that's done, it'll be about time for Dad to get back home for good. :thumbsup2

Unfortunately, he'll probably be heading right to the ship after he returns home. :(

happy you are getting to spend so much time with the boys through the homeschooling. I bet they are loving it! Are you planning to do it for the whole year, or just until Chuck gets back?

We're planning to do it until they graduate or I go crazy, whichever comes first. ;)

I enjoyed your updates. I am glad you all are going to get to spend some time as a family over the holiday.

Thanks!

KathyRN137

08-20-2009, 01:01 PM

:rotfl: Guess what we bought Saturday?? A new Stitch. :stitch: The boys (especially Connor) were really missing him so I used my Disney Rewards card and bought one. Ours is bigger than the Cali Stitch, but the boys are happy.

I'm still catching up, but had to stop and comment on this! :stitch2:

Which Stitch will go to WDW next?? Is there another family "on deck?"

Kathy

carissanboys

08-20-2009, 02:09 PM

I'm still catching up, but had to stop and comment on this! :stitch2:

Which Stitch will go to WDW next?? Is there another family "on deck?"

Kathy

Well, our Stitch is staying with us and due to us just starting to follow Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover, there will be no WDW trips in the near (or far) future. But, I'm sure he'll have other adventures with us! :goodvibes

As for the original Stitch, I believe after Keith, he's supposed to get sent back to Heidi. But, I'm not real sure on that.

jmskinner

08-20-2009, 05:41 PM

liznboys

08-21-2009, 09:40 AM

...Welcome home! :goodvibes I can't believe I have a picture of something you've never seen before! :banana:...

:laughing: I could have seen it and just forgotton too. LOL! JK ;)

lazydoxy66

08-21-2009, 09:56 PM

Wow, I can't believe that the ticket guy wanted to argue with you about the I.D. That really does put a damper on the whole thing when it happens right at the start. I hope you were able to enjoy the rest of the day despite that and the rain. It did look like fun.

I love Stitch! He is my fav. I am planning on buying myself a little guy on this trip.

My DH and I want to visit Maine some day. He loves seafood, especially crab. I think we would have a blast just staying somewhere along the coast.

carissanboys

08-22-2009, 06:34 AM

Love the new Stitch!

Sorry to hear about the issue at the gate of Seaworld. We would have been in trouble with Jacob since he doesn't have an ID yet. Need to get that when Dad gets back. But we didn't have a problem at Busch Gardens.:confused3

I sure hope the rain stopped.

And, you read my TR so you know what we have been doing over the Summer.:laughing:

The new Stitch is so cuddly. :goodvibes

:laughing: I could have seen it and just forgotton too. LOL! JK ;)

Why'd ya have to burst my bubble?? :rotfl:

Wow, I can't believe that the ticket guy wanted to argue with you about the I.D. That really does put a damper on the whole thing when it happens right at the start. I hope you were able to enjoy the rest of the day despite that and the rain. It did look like fun.

I love Stitch! He is my fav. I am planning on buying myself a little guy on this trip.

My DH and I want to visit Maine some day. He loves seafood, especially crab. I think we would have a blast just staying somewhere along the coast.

You should definitely visit Maine. It's a beautiful place. But, if you want crab (and it's my favorite seafood as well), take a short drive to Maryland! :thumbsup2