A Gem of a Birthday-Celebrating my 40th@AKL(No Kids!)11/03 Link to Next report! [Archive] - Page 2 - The DIS Discussion Forums

Diamondintheruff

09-19-2009, 08:05 PM

I didn't miss it but in my mind I was thinking you were only 5 minutes late or something...It made me question what I was doing wrong when we stayed at AKL!!!

I doubt you were doing anything wrong!

We were really lucky this trip and there were lots of times that the bus was right there waiting for us.

I thought about eating at the Wave next trip. The way I changed ADR's last time I may wind up there :lmao: DD beat me both times we went on Buzz. I get her back later lol.

Shall we place bets on how many of your original ADR's you actually keep?

Hello my friend...it's been awhile....what is up with MEN??? Don't they know by now we know everything in retrospect to Disney. Geez....ever think how nice a girls only trip would be;):lmao: Picture it....up early, a little at the park, pool, drinks by the pool, dinner, drinks at dinner, more drinks later....ahhh doesn't that sound good???

Wonderful post, that butternut squash soup sounded delish! Just may have to try it next time.:confused3

The soup was really good and I didn't think I could ever find anything to top it and then I had butternut squash soup somewhere else later in the trip that put the Wave's soup to shame.

When did you say your next trip was? Maybe I'll have to pop in for a couple of days to visit you and Peg. I think a girl's only trip sounds heavenly.:cloud9:

I just found your TR and I am soooo enjoying it. I feel like I have found my Dis Twin. :goodvibes:goodvibes

Look at my ticker. I too am going without kids. :cool1::cool1::cool1:

I am also in my early 40's. I think we may be married to the same guy just a different body. Also questions my planning/ knowledge after we get there. ;)

You look like you had a great time (considering length of marriage :rotfl:) Your TR brought tears to my eyes as it has made me soooooo very excited about our up coming trip. Can't wait to read the rest.

Welcome! I'll have to pop over and check out your PTR. Just one warning though, our adult only trip was so addicting that we've already booked another one. So watch out!

I found your TR today and read all the way through- I love it! It is always nice to find a fellow canadian as obsessed about WDW me...lol. Looking forward to more!

Welcome! Nice to meet another canuck too. Thanks for reading and I'm off to work on some more right now.

Diamondintheruff

09-21-2009, 12:33 PM

The Plan

Breakfast at Kona 8:00 am (Tonga Toast)
Rope Drop Epcot
Pick up Fast passes for Soarin
Test Track
________________________________________

The Reality

Maybe because I went to sleep dreaming of cinnamon sugar, I woke up around 1:30am with a terrible tummy ache.

:sick:

I tried to ignore it and go back to sleep but the cramping was too strong. I stayed in bed as long as I could before giving in and heading out to the bathroom. I figured it was going to be cleaning disaster if I hadn’t.

I tried not to wake Dh. Honest I did.:rolleyes1

But I guess he wasn’t in a very deep sleep because I heard him calling me from the bedroom.

"Are you alright in there?" he asked groggily.

"Not really, but there's nothing you can do right now. So go back to sleep and I'll call you if I need anything." I replied.

"Okay, mumble, mumble, mumble, mumble" says Dh.

I couldn't make out anything he was saying anyway so I ignored him. I had other things on my mind or rather in my stomach that were distracting me.

But Dh started up again. This time louder so there was no mistaking him. He had the nerve to try and make fun of me. I can't remember his exact wording but it was something like the following.

"Did you think to pack any scented candles or anything?"

I actually though Dh wanted to be romantic. How silly of me. He continues on in his mocking of me and my pain.

"What about any Frebreeze? Cause now you're making me feel sick too!"

And then he laughs and even throws in a few fake gagging coughs.

UGH!!!!

I heard him get up and open the balcony door.

"Thanks for the support Hon!" I lashed out at him.

"I'm sorry. I just figured if you could joke about it then you'd start feeling better. Now honestly, is there anything I can do?" he says as he stands in the bathroom doorway.

"You could bring me something to read I guess."

"Done" he says as he throws me one of my disney planning binders.

Now let's assume you're feeling ill with a stomach ache. What is the last thing you want to read about?

That's right folks. My well-intentioned Dh brought me my binder full of printed off disney restaurant menus.

I wasn't really in the mood for that.:sad2:

I lamented in the bathroom for an hour or so. Eventually the pain subsided and I went back to bed.

Of course now I was awake.:yay:

So I turned Stacy on again.:happytv:

The TV woke up Dh and I guess Mr. Octopus as well. Sigh. I pleaded illness and he turned over and went back to sleep.

I got bored of Stacy after a while. I know what you’re thinking? How can someone get bored of her? I flicked around and found Friends. It always puts me to sleep as I’ve seen every episode. Joey is my favorite. My brother does a great imitation of him and always cracks me up.

Before I knew it the phone was ringing and it was 6:40am already. Our wake up call was the song “A dream is a wish your heart makes”. I had heard the song yesterday morning too but was too groggy to realize just which princess song it was. It was nicer to wake up to than Stitch.:stitch:

Both Dh and I had a quick shower, got dressed and were at the bus stop by 7:14 in our appointed Disney outfits for the day.

:earsboy::earsboy:

Once again we were traveling under a lucky star (or maybe a fairy godmother:wizard:) because a bus for the MK was right there.

We hopped on the monorail for the Poly and once again I gloated at Dh that the monorail did indeed only go in one direction. He didn’t seem to care which made me want to rub it in ever more.

Here is a picture to prove that I am right.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/daa7c222.jpg

The monorail stopped when we hit the TTC. They announced they were doing a “test” and that they needed to reset the monorail by turning off the power.

This took quite some time. :hourglass:

After what seemed like forever, the train got going again and we were only 5 minutes late for our reservations at ...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/5be72baa.jpg

As I mentioned I had been dreaming of Tonga Toast. I had yet to try this wonderful concoction of bread, sugar cinnamon and banana but it had had my mouth watering for the past few months in anticipation.:lovestruc

Our waitress was a bit off that morning. I have read that this seems to be the case with Kona wait staff.

I ordered the pressed coffee.

:surfweb: (It's the only coffee smilie I could find so just ignore the computer)

It did not disappoint. The coffee was wonderful. I also ordered a mimosa. The mimosa took some time but eventually with a few reminders made it’s way to me.

Dh wanted the jungle juice blend that he had tried at Ohana’s last summer. I found it too acidic for me but then Dh hates coffee so we sat in silence enjoying our breakfast beverages and waiting for our Tonga Toast to arrive.

Here is our medly of drinks.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/52b491b9.jpg

Finally the big moment came and our breakfast was served.

Here it is. The Big "T"!

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/c6b5b272.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/0214b4f7.jpg

I loved every single bite. I had no problem finishing it off. I had read that some people found it too much to finish but not me. I was up for that task.

Dh enjoyed his Tonga too but not to the same state of delight that I did. He’s more of a savory breakfast eater. Give him an omelet, fried potatoes and sausage or bacon and he’s happy. For myself, I will always choose baked goods over all else. Perhaps that’s why I can’t seem to get down into single digit dress sizes?

Here's Dh being a ham but you can see the place is pretty empty.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/3ea5ae9e.jpg

When we got our bill, I noticed that the waitress forgot to add my Mimosa to it. Even though we were on the deluxe dinning plan we still had to pay for our alcohol. Now as I previously stated my mimosa took a long time to arrive and many reminders. I thought about not mentioning anything and just walking out. But that would have been too UnDisney of me so I had to flag down our waitress and throw more money her way.

I was getting anxious about getting to Epcot on time for rope drop and mentioned that I needed to get going. In truth, I had mentioned we were in a hurry many times that morning. She didn’t seem to process that information. She took her time getting the bill adjusted and finally I just threw down some cash on the table and left. It was almost 9:00am and she had already cost me rope drop.

We took the monorails to Epcot. I wasn’t sure whether to take the bus or not but the waitress said the bus stops at other places so the monorail was best. Still not sure if she was right.

Here we are on the monorail.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/f0b15cb1.jpg

I took this from the monorail. Can you spot the hidden Mickey?

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/832c63dd.jpg

It was 9:14 when we passed the turnstiles at Epcot. We headed straight to soarin for fast passes. Once they were secured and tucked away into our park bag we headed to test track.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/4f754516.jpg

The wait time said 10 minutes. It was more like 30.

I had never ridden test track before. Friends of mine work for GM and they go on and on about how great it is. Of course they use their employee identification card to get access right to the front of the ride.

I wasn't really looking forward to this ride so much as I just wanted to get it over with so I could say I did it.

I didn't take any pictures in the lineup and it wasn't because I didn't have time. I just forgot.

When we finally got to the front we were seated with a single rider. I forget her name but she was like a breathe of fresh air.

She told us she was from Kentucky. She and her husband both rode in the single lane since as she said “I’ve been married to him for 27 years. What’s left to talk about? I’d rather sit next to strangers and learn something new”.

"I don’t think I have anything new to teach you" I said.

"Honey you'd be surprised." she answered. "How long have y'all be married?"

"13 years"

"Any kids?" she asked.

"Three but they are at home with their grandparents."

She smiled and I swear her eyes twinkled.

"Kids are great but a marriage needs some time and attention too especially now a-days" she says. "You're doing a good thing" and she patted my arm. "Now have either of you been on this here ride before?"

"No"

"I didn't think so by the look in your eyes. Don't you worry none. I'm going to tell you when you need to hang on real tight. Okay?" She asks.

"Thanks." we both answer.

Sure enough she did tell us. Her mouth barely took a break. She was a hoot on the ride as she surprised us with full-blown belly laughs during the fast twist and turns.

I was sorry to say goodbye to her at the end of the ride.

"Youse take care of each other and the rest will fall into place. And by the way Happy Birthday!" Ms. Kentucky waves goodbye as she runs to reunit with her husband at the exit.

She gives him a big old smootch on the cheek and he returns with a playful slap on her behind.

The two of them take off hand in hand.

Dh and I looked at each other, grab hands and walk out into the sunlight hoping that that would be us in another 14 years.

Up next how long can we possible be sappy and happy together? It's epcot doesn't someone have to have a meltdown? Click here to find out who. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33708244&postcount=269

DearDaisyinDurham

09-21-2009, 07:09 PM

Diamondintheruff

09-21-2009, 07:45 PM

Diamond, you always, always have great updates!! Love the Wave & Kona, but I think the best part was the fun lady on Test Track!

BTW, we did the same for our next trip - first had room only reserved, then got the AP discount, then switched to free dining & it turned out to be the best deal!!

Speaking of free dining I just switched over to it today. So funny you should mention it.

Of course I have already figured out where we are eating and even what I'm going to have so it was easy to figure out how much food is going to cost.

When I did the math which was room + 1 day water park tickets + food costs free dining was $5 cheaper. So I got the go ahead from the big guy.

:banana::banana::banana:

Once again, thanks for your kind words.

Tnkrbelle565

09-21-2009, 07:47 PM

Nancy for Disney

09-21-2009, 07:55 PM

Oh, what a wonderful trip on TT. Single riders can be so much fun. :) I do hope you enjoyed it. I had noticed that you hadn't done too many of the more thrilling rides. I guess that is one thing that is different about us. I plan on heading straight to space mountain. As a matter of fact one of the reasons that I picked Dec for our trip was that SM would be open again. I went on TT at least twice on our last trip. I loved it. I rode EE 5 times.

Anyway, I can't believe you are already planning another trip for 2. I saw your ticker and thought that maybe it was a family trip. It looks like it is just around the corner. Can't wait to read that TR.

I am hoping for another trip for two also but I am not getting my hopes up. DH has a conference at the Swan this Aug. He really isn't into traveling unless he has to. He went to the conference this year so I don't know if he will go again next year. In was in Kentucky of all places so nothing thrilling there. I am trying not to go too Disney crazy on him. He requires the suttle approach. I of course will be dropping a few hints when we are down there. :rolleyes1

Keep the updates coming. :thumbsup2

Diamondintheruff

09-21-2009, 09:39 PM

Wow that woman was pretty cheerful for that early in the morning. You can tell she's not from up North. :snooty:

So Disney food does NOT agree with you huh? I'm thinking it has something to do with the lack of veggies. I always have a belly ache by day 3! Sorry for the miserable experience :sad2:

So did you like TT?????

I'm pretty sure I had some kind of intestinal bug. My parents mentioned that one of the kids was ill too. But I'm sure all the rich food I was ingesting was not helping.

Dh is a fruit and veggie counter. He is obsessively after all of us to increase our daily quotas. He didn't let me off the hook either even though it was vacation. We bought lots of fruits as snacks. Again that probably didn't help as I'm more of a veggie eater. All I know is that I'm bringing some stomach medicines with me next month.

Oh, what a wonderful trip on TT. Single riders can be so much fun. :) I do hope you enjoyed it. I had noticed that you hadn't done too many of the more thrilling rides. I guess that is one thing that is different about us. I plan on heading straight to space mountain. As a matter of fact one of the reasons that I picked Dec for our trip was that SM would be open again. I went on TT at least twice on our last trip. I loved it. I rode EE 5 times.

Anyway, I can't believe you are already planning another trip for 2. I saw your ticker and thought that maybe it was a family trip. It looks like it is just around the corner. Can't wait to read that TR.

I am hoping for another trip for two also but I am not getting my hopes up. DH has a conference at the Swan this Aug. He really isn't into traveling unless he has to. He went to the conference this year so I don't know if he will go again next year. In was in Kentucky of all places so nothing thrilling there. I am trying not to go too Disney crazy on him. He requires the suttle approach. I of course will be dropping a few hints when we are down there. :rolleyes1

Keep the updates coming. :thumbsup2

It is true we really aren't BIG THRILL people. But we are SHOW people. Isn't it great that Disney has both?

I forgot to comment on my feelings about TT. I'm glad we did it. I would do is again with any of the kids if they wanted to but otherwise I'm happy to bypass it. I did think the premise was cute.

Our next trip is once again a couple's trip. Just Dh and I. Although he drove me crazy :crazy: at times we both really enjoyed having that time together. He loved going away just the two of us and I love Disney. So this way we are both getting what we want.

We might be heading back as a family in July. I've heard word that our dance studio might be entering a competition then. So I just might be able to get three trips there in less than a year. And to think I wasn't looking forward to my 40's.

portocall

09-21-2009, 11:10 PM

Wow, terrific updates as usual.

Diamondintheruff

09-21-2009, 11:16 PM

Wow, terrific updates as usual.

Thanks!

By the way-What's the tree thing in your siggie?

mollyseven

09-22-2009, 07:40 AM

Diamondintheruff

09-22-2009, 08:54 AM

It must be something about turning 40 because I went 3 times that year also!!! It was great at the time but now this year we won't be going once....not once in 2009 and it's agony!!!! Seriously waiting for March Break is a longgggggg haul. I know people are thinking "sad" "poor baby" but ugggg!
Just take what you can get and ENJOY!!! like you have to be told!
:rotfl:

Of course I understand your agony. At least you know when you are going. It's the ending of a trip when I'm not sure when my next visit will be that gets me.

Good to run into you the other day. I was going to PM you and tell you I finally got back around to updating but I see I don't have to.

portocall

09-22-2009, 06:35 PM

I PM'd you on the tree! I also wanted to say I am glad that if you are a little late to your ADR... they will squeeze you in. We have 6 for our trip... but I have never had one before so I have been nervous about it. Not saying I am going to try to be late (and I am someone who freaks if she thinks she isn't gonna be 10 minutes early)... but you never know.

Charleston Princess

09-23-2009, 11:48 AM

Somehow I fell behind, but I have caught up again. :banana:

How dare DH doubt you when you said you could walk to the Magic Kingdom. Sigh. They never learn do they? :sad2:

:scared1: about your stomach and your less-than-sympathetic DH! I am glad you were feeling well enough to go enjoy Kona though.

Ms. Kentucky cracked me up! Hope you avoid the Epcot meltdown.

Diamondintheruff

09-24-2009, 05:49 PM

Had a busy week.

First the good news.

I've decided to surprise my Dh with an upgrade on our disney trip. We were staying at Pop but I've changed us to Coranado Springs. (Did I even spell that right?). It's a surprise so SHH!! Don't tell.

Then the bad new.

Dh's father has been in pallative care for many months (Cancer). Yesterday he decided he was ready to go and they took him off his IV (he hasn't eaten in 2 months) and the priest was called in. We really thought yesterday was it but so far he is hanging on.

Plus, Dh is throwing himself a 40th B-day party on saturday. We're having about 60 family and friends for a pig roast. We've booked a tent and some jumpy castles. The house is a disaster and tomorrow I'm going to have to get out the elbow grease big-time.

Of course one may ask "Why are you having a party when you're father-in-law is on death's doorstep?" It's a question I have asked Dh many times. He really wanted the party and when we were planning for it we honestly didn't believe that his father would have passed away before now. Plus as you've all been introduced to my Dh. He is a man and not all that conscious of social issues. He really didn't think about it.

I PM'd you on the tree! I also wanted to say I am glad that if you are a little late to your ADR... they will squeeze you in. We have 6 for our trip... but I have never had one before so I have been nervous about it. Not saying I am going to try to be late (and I am someone who freaks if she thinks she isn't gonna be 10 minutes early)... but you never know.

Thanks, I have to add it on still. I used to have a pumpkin years ago but I like the ghost better.

Somehow I fell behind, but I have caught up again. :banana:

How dare DH doubt you when you said you could walk to the Magic Kingdom. Sigh. They never learn do they? :sad2:

:scared1: about your stomach and your less-than-sympathetic DH! I am glad you were feeling well enough to go enjoy Kona though.

Ms. Kentucky cracked me up! Hope you avoid the Epcot meltdown.

Ms. Kentucky cracked us up too. I was getting a little nervous but once we met up with her she took my mind off things.

Queenofallthings

09-24-2009, 07:22 PM

Great update! What is it with men....when you're sick it's a big joke, when they're sick...the world comes to an end cause they think they're dying:lmao: Reason 45,345 why I'm single and staying that way.

Ok, Ms Kentucky.....how cute was she:cutie: I love chatting to people in line, on rides, next to you on the bus, really I'm not fussy I'll talk to anyone. This past trip though there were a lot a grumpy people (I think they forgot where they were) so we mostly kept to ourselves:rolleyes1

I think as of right now, just Jasmine and I are going next summer for her graduation gift. I'll keep working on Peg though, we have so much fun when we're all together.

I have to tell you, I'm a little excited about this Epcot meltdown, makes me happy to know I'm not the only one that has those:woohoo:

Diamondintheruff

09-25-2009, 12:10 AM

When I last left you we had;
- just missed rope drop at Epcot,:sad2:
- grabbed soarin fast passes :thumbsup2
- rode Test Track for the first time :moped:
-plus we had been left with the warm fuzzies after meeting a very vocal “old gal” from Kentucky.:hug:

On our way out of test track I attempted to view my photopass picture but the machine was down.:sick: I was told it would show up on my account when I got home. It never did. Sigh.:sad2:

In our it’s-still-early-morning-at-the-park-the-world-is-our-oyster excitement we opted to try Mission Space.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/5a27d0d3.jpg

Bad idea :headache:

I wasn’t so filled with excitement that Dh could get me to ride the full motion side though. Dh had ridden the calmer side with DS6 and wanted to try out the other side.

“Okay Honey, I’ll meet you here (I pointed to a bench in the shade) when you’re done.” I told him and took off for the calm side.

Turns out he didn’t want to try it that badly after all. He entered right behind me.

Now if I can just comment on my personal observations. Calm side MY FOOT! And if that is calm then I’m glad to never try out the other side. I found the ride very stimulating. Not in the way Dh wished though. But I’ll get to that in a moment.

In case you are unaware (and I wish I still was) you get assigned roles in your ship. I was the pilot and the navigator. You are really only supposed to have one role but at the last minute the mother and daughter that made up the other half of our four-man team backed out. So it was just Dh and I in the pod alone.:rolleyes1

That’s right folks. Just the two of us in the dark with the doors closed. Thank goodness we were strapped in because I don’t know how I would have survived other wise.

As soon as they closed the doors I was attacked and not by the aliens I was at war with either. How he managed with all those straps I just don’t know. Dh though he was hilarious with his jokes about what he'd like me to navigate and so forth. The good part was it took my mind off the nauseous feeling the ride was giving me. The bad part is... well you know... what if they have cameras?

I don’t think I’d ride that attraction again. I’ putting it in the “done it once, never have to do it again” pile.

After the ride we hit the little boys room. Okay not me, as that would have us kicked out of Disney for sure. I just waited outside. I felt like I spent a lot of time just waiting outside a washroom for him. It was like he was on a mission to try out every bathroom in the WDW. I even took a picture of this one but lost it when my computer crashed earlier this summer. Sigh.

After Dh’s pit stop we headed over to see Figment. :figment:

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/fb406bd7.jpg

Another first for us. When I told Dh where we were going I don’t think he understood just how far away that one was. He kept asking, “Where is this place again?” Luckily it was a walk on. (Okay so maybe it's not so lucky. Maybe it's always a walk on.)

I thought the ride was cute. My kids would enjoy it. It’s a bit slow moving at least compared to crashing into planets or rolling over in a car. I know my kids would enjoy the pavilion at the end of it.

Here is the only sort of okay picture I got from the ride.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/7ecace93.jpg

We sent some videos and pictures but again they got lost when my computer crashed. Sigh. I say we but it was really just me.

Dh was sitting down by now. I suppose looking back I should have taken that as a sign. You know a flashing neon sign that reads

“Feed me”

or

“Warning low blood sugar”

or perhaps even

“Meltdown eminent”.

But I didn’t read the signs.

“Can we go now?” Dh asked a few times. I felt like I was talking to the kids when I told him I’d be done in just a minute.

After Figment I wanted to go to Space Ship Earth. Dh didn’t. He had done it with DS6 and didn’t feel it warranted a second go.

“Okay, we can split up and meet back after. What do you want to do?”

“Nothing”

Apparently I was traveling with a sulky pre-teen. Sigh. Again I realize I should have read the signs.

On our way to try spaceship earth we ran into cool club first.

Yeah! :cool1:

I had been looking forward to tricking Dh with the evil Beverly drink. (think rubbing hands together feverishly).

Here is Dh about to try it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/045_45.jpg

Here he is after. I was hoping for a bit more drama. Sigh. So he didn’t care for the Beverly but he did like some of the other flavors.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/046_46.jpg

Here is a picture of all the flavours.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/23d309c7.jpg

After cooling off at club cool, I though Dh had pepped up a bit. We walked over to spaceship earth. Alas, the line up was too long and I didn’t think we would make our lunchtime ADR if we waited in line for it.

“Where are we going for lunch again?” Asked a cranky Dh.

“France”

“Where is France?”

I just couldn’t resist the next line and usually Dh would have laughed but once again another sign I ignored.

“It’s in Europe.”

“Gee thanks Einstein… I knew that. I mean how far away is the restaurant?”

“It’s across the water in the world showcase”

“All across the water?”

“Well… yeah”

Here it comes folks. Fasten your seatbelt and turn down your volume because Dh had an immediate harsh reaction to that one.

“I’m not going. There is no way you are going to get me to walk all that way across the water.”

He sat down on a curb and I swear he crossed his arms and stuck out his lower lip in a sulk position.

His rant continued on. He wasn’t walking anywhere. He was done with walking.

“What kind of trip was this anyway? It certainly wasn’t a vacation. I thought a vacation was supposed to be relaxing. Why did you have to plan for us to walk so much? Why did you even plan for us to come here? What was wrong with Club Med? Don’t you know you don’t have to do anything there but lie in the sun and drink tropical drinks? Or beer. I’d like a beer. A cold one. In fact, I’m not going anywhere until you bring me a cold beer.”

I was shocked at the ferocity of his meltdown.

I wasn’t sure how to handle this. Then I got mad that I was going to have to handle this. He’s a grown man. As a teacher I handle temper tantrums all the time. I was annoyed I would have to handle his now.

I opened my mouth to say…

________________________________________________

I forgot to add this picture of my towel-cake that housekeeping left the day before. It's out of order but so cute I had to include it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/18d65c0d.jpg

Click here to get to the next chapter. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33747218&postcount=280

Diamondintheruff

09-25-2009, 12:15 AM

yyx99

09-25-2009, 12:24 AM

great report

Charleston Princess

09-25-2009, 10:35 PM

Lady Lallie

09-25-2009, 11:33 PM

I caught up only to get a cliff hanger!!??? :scared1: :eek: :scared1:

Diamondintheruff

09-26-2009, 08:07 AM

Agghhhh, I can't believe you left us hanging like that, Diamond, with DH sulking on the curb -- which I know must not have been the least bit funny at the time, but I have to admit I was laughing (because you know I have one of those that would pull that kind of stunt)! Please, oh, please, I hope Charles doesn't do that to me on our adults-only weekend next week! :eek:

Don't make us wait too long to find out what you said...popcorn::

I forgot that even though he's an adult, he's best touring at kid speed.

By the way he's done this before. In a shopping Mall. So it wasn't a complete shocker!

I caught up only to get a cliff hanger!!??? :scared1: :eek: :scared1:

Says the lady who so delicately twisted words while twittering live from WDW to keep us all guessing.

Lady Lallie

09-26-2009, 08:43 AM

Says the lady who so delicately twisted words while twittering live from WDW to keep us all guessing.

Who me!?! I have NO idea what you are talking about. :rolleyes: :rolleyes1

DearDaisyinDurham

09-26-2009, 07:59 PM

Nancy for Disney

09-27-2009, 09:37 AM

First, my sympathies to your family regarding your FIL. :flower3:

Second I hope your DH's party goes well. Wow 60 people! Was this at your house? :scared1:

Third, Can't wait to hear how your trip across the pond to get to France went.

My DH wouldn't ever sit down and refuse to go somewhere. He would just get real quiet and not speak. At least that is what he did last night. We went to a blues fest yesterday and I thought it would be like our trial Disney trip. I swear the man didn't say two words and everything had to be my idea. I don't think he was feeling well as he has been having back problems. He would never admit it though. :sad2: I think I would have rather him say that he wasn't feeling well and we should just go home rather than just not speak. :snooty: I guess enough of my hijacking of your TR to gripe about my DH.

Can't wait for the rest. How are the plans coming for the next trip?

Cinderella's slipper

09-27-2009, 11:36 AM

I'm staying at AKL for my birthday in October and I can't wait! I stayed at POP the week after my bday last year and they put a card with a balloon in the room. Did the AKL do anything for your birthday?

Hi just read your post about being in AKL for your birthday. We are arriving October 21st, a week later than my birthday; however, I think I'll get a birthday button and celebrate anyway.

portocall

09-27-2009, 02:29 PM

Now that is a cliffhanger! My DH has those moments, but thankfully so do I so I can call us even. I can't wait to read how it resolved itself (I am sure it did)

I am sorry to read that your FIL is not doing well. I hope that your DH's birthday party is a huge success...

Diamondintheruff

09-28-2009, 12:02 PM

I last left off in Epcot with Dh hosting a sit-in on a curb by spaceship earth. He was protesting my touring plans. He was tired. He didn’t want to walk anymore.

I figured I had two paths to move him out of this.

1) I could yell and scream and be a total B*@%#*. Which would of course put us both in a bad mood.

Or
2) I could cajole him sweetly out of it with sympathy and humour.

I’m sure you know which option I felt like doing.:scared1:

But I sucked it up for the good of the trip.

I took a deep breath, composed myself and sat down beside him.

I sang for him. To the tune of “It’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to.”

“It’s my birthday and we’ll do world showcase if I want to,
World showcase if I want to,
World showcase if I want to.
You have to come to cause it’s my 40th birthday!”

He cracked a small smile. I had sung a few verses of this song already this trip.

I just sat beside him for a few moments quietly talking and rubbing his back.:hug:

Pat. Pat. Rub. Rub. "Poor, poor Honey"
Pat. Pat. Rub. Rub. "Your poor feet."

and so on.

:rolleyes1

It worked!

:woohoo:

After five minutes or so he initiated standing up.

“We have to go all the way to France huh?” He asked stretching but upright.

“Yuppers. But we have an hour and I thought we could watch the movie in Canada on our way. We could sit to watch it” Okay I knew they didn’t have chairs but I hoped he could sit on the floor.

“Okay but I want to go back to the Coke place to get another drink first.”

“Fine with me. Couldn’t get enough of that Beverly stuff huh?” I was still trying the humour approach.

After filling up on liquids we headed to the world showcase. Dh happened to look at the screens by the fountain. They said that the showcase was closed. Dh sat down again. On yet another curb. If you're counting that is curb #2.

Dh maintained that he wasn’t going to walk all that way if he couldn’t get food. He wanted to be sure first. Until then he was going to camp out right there. On the curb.

Here we go again I thought.

:headache:

“Hon, It’s probably just a technical mistake. I know it’s open.” I told him.

It was after 11:30 am. I knew the world showcase opened at 11am. It almost always does. I checked my pocket size trip planner I carry with me. It read 11am. I checked the paper you pick up at the front gate with all the show times on it. It read 11am.

I showed both things to him.

:snooty:

He still shook his head. He wasn’t budging.

Once again, Dh did not have any faith in me and my Disney knowledge. I would be lying if I said I was having a hard time speaking nicely to Dh. I fought a hard internal battle to keep from blowing up at him.

Once again I wished I was on this trip with someone else.

Then I had an idea.

:idea:

We were so close to the informational screens and there were a couple CM’s hanging around to answer questions. I would bring one over to talk to Dh.

So that’s what I did. A nice CM walked over with me to my curb sitting Dh and told him that the screens were in fact wrong. I thanked him and Dh and I were on our way once again.

Only this time I wasn’t so talkative with him. I was afraid of what would have leaped out of my head at him.

We stopped at Canada.

We waited about 2 minutes for the film to start. They had benches for us to sit on. Dh was happy.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/2e3bb4d3.jpg

Dh sat on the floor the whole movie. But at least it wasn't a curb.

I thought it was okay. Most Canadian tourism that I’ve seen focuses a lot on Toronto. I thought it was neat that this one didn’t. It seemed to show more maritime and British Columbia, and even Calgarian pictures than I was expecting. I don’t remember watching the old film.

Here is Dh sitting or rather stretching.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/eebd75db.jpg

On our way to France we went by a Kimcumminicator station.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/5d31b374.jpg

We checked in. I knew we didn’t have time to do it now so we saved it for after lunch. Here is what the station looked like.

I went straight for the grey goose slushie stand. I knew I was going to get the grey goose one but Dh took a while to decide which flavor he wanted.

He went with the same as me. Turns out he should have skipped it altogher.

Boy were they strong.

I felt floaty in minutes. All the flowers looked so pretty and I became very giggly.

I checked us in to Chef’s du france. We had to wait a bit.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/ea34063a.jpg

I didn’t mind. Life was good. I sipped my drink and sat on a curb with Dh and people watched. Yes, that's right. Curb #3. We'd been in the park for three hours now and averaged one curb sitting an hour. Only of course he didn't start sitting until after the second hour. But I had my slushie so I had stopped counting.

Dh started to feel sick.

Then he started to feel sicker.

Then he left to find a bathroom. (Just like the curb theme we also have the continuing bathroom theme.)

Before he left I convinced him to fake it for a photo op. Here is Dh and I at the fountain in France with our drinks.

(sorry I can't find this picture. I'll keep looking.)

Dh returned still feeling sick. He didn’t think he could actually eat lunch. He gave me the rest of his drink.

"Oh I couldn't take that from you" I protested.

"Well, okay but I'm just going to dump it."

"DON'T! I mean there is no need to do that. Why don't I just take it after all?"

Dh was thinking of going back to the hotel. But he didn’t think he could handle the walk.

I found it much easier to be supportive, sympathetic and humourous thanks to the grey goose.

I patted his back sympathetically and rhythmically. The pattern went like this.

Pat. Pat. Rub. Rub. SIP. SIP.

Pat. Pat. Rub. Rub. SIP. SIP.

Eventually we were called. We were seated inside. I was still working on Dh’s grey goose so I skipped ordering some french wine. I didn’t need us both to be ill.

Our waiter was Thomas. He was adorable. I’m not just saying that because I was all fuzzy from the drinks. He put up with my Canadian French.

We had the most wonderful meal there. I highly recommend the place. Dh started to feel better during the main course once he got some food into his stomach but still not quite right. He managed to eat most of his meal though.

I had the broccoli soup. YUM!

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/e9f5aad1.jpg

Dh had some sort of cheese, onion and bacon on flat bread. He was just looking for something to soak up the alcohol.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/e5797825.jpg

I had the quiche. Tres bien.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/e48c91f0.jpg

Dh had the vegetarian lasagna.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/df8a422f.jpg

For desert I had the chocolate orange mousse.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/dbb9729a.jpg

And Dh had the crème brule.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/a477d7bf.jpg

But then my serveur (that’s waiter in French) avec ses amis (and his friends) sang happy birthday to me and brought me a ladyfinger and some fruit with a candle in it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/b316313c.jpg

Here is the picture of them. I tried to get Dh to move out of the way.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/aead546c.jpg

It was one of favorite moments of the trip!

We had a lovely conversation with a family from the U.S. who had just arrived today. They had a son in grade 1 and a pre-school age daughter. Dh and I were impressed as their children started off their meal with the lobster bisque.

Apparently this family can’t do the dinning plan because the kids won’t eat off the children’s menu. I knew children such as this existed just not in my family. My kids love mac and cheese, corn and chicken nuggets. However, I do think that more of the restaurants should serve kid’s size portions of their main courses too. Not for my kids necessarily. But for families like this one.

We bid adieu to the nouveau cuisine eating children and their parents and left to do our Kim Possible mission.

Only Dh had to make a pit stop at the bathroom again.

:sad2:

Was he alright? And more importantly was this going to interfere with my plans for the rest of the day?

:confused3

Click here to find out. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33819153&postcount=296

mollyseven

09-28-2009, 12:21 PM

O.k 2 things I am noticing at this point.
1. You must have the patience of a saint :angel:and I think you should definitely keep teaching kindergarten because it seems like you have another child with you and not an adult. I on the other hand feel like I have already gotten my kids past this stage of life and if my husband had sat on 1 single curb and sulked I would've left him there and continued on my way and totally enjoyed myself. You my friend .... are craZy!!

2. Why is it that we always see photos of your husband doing hamstring stretches because it's my guess that he doesn't run and from the curb sitting probably doesn't do alot of exercise in general.......? Even my kids who are slugs at times never sit out at disney....they never seem to tire of walking around and doing the attractions..

O.k I have a third thing...... We girls need to all go together ....imagine the time we would have. no kids, no grown up male kids, lots of liquid refreshments and we would see everything and hit every store!!!:woohoo:

who's with me.....maybe a summer 2010 girl trip? :cloud9:

Diamondintheruff

09-28-2009, 12:29 PM

Oh, Diamond, I hope you :lovestruc CSR!! Have you checked out the thread to see which sections you like?

Melt downs and tantrums...good thing we trade off on these....at least taking turns helps to keep it all equal - either that or DH owes you a big whopping shopping outing!!

I really haven't checked out CSR much at all. I just know that my TA recommended it and said that they might be making it into it's own price category in the moderates. I figured I should go before they increase the price on me.

Dh owes me too many shopping trips to count. I'm hoping to pop into either Target or the fashion outlets on our way there or home this trip. But if not I have a Buffalo shopping weekend with my girlfriends coming up soon.

First, my sympathies to your family regarding your FIL. :flower3:

Second I hope your DH's party goes well. Wow 60 people! Was this at your house? :scared1:

Third, Can't wait to hear how your trip across the pond to get to France went.

My DH wouldn't ever sit down and refuse to go somewhere. He would just get real quiet and not speak. At least that is what he did last night. We went to a blues fest yesterday and I thought it would be like our trial Disney trip. I swear the man didn't say two words and everything had to be my idea. I don't think he was feeling well as he has been having back problems. He would never admit it though. :sad2: I think I would have rather him say that he wasn't feeling well and we should just go home rather than just not speak. :snooty: I guess enough of my hijacking of your TR to gripe about my DH.

Can't wait for the rest. How are the plans coming for the next trip?

My father-in-law is still hanging in there. He's in so much pain and is such a shell of what he used to be that it's painful to watch. It's awful to hope for but I think we are all at the point where we wish his suffering would end.

Thanks for asking about the party. We had a tent set up in the backyard, and a couple of jumpy castles for the kids. But it was still very busy. We took pictures of it to my father-in-law in the hospital.

I wish my Dh would be quiet sometimes. He always lets me know when he is upset. Enjoy the silence.

I haven't done much to plan for our next trip. We're taking it easy. We're going to MNSSHP one day and doing a park the next. I haven't decided which park yet. Maybe Epcot since they have the food and wine festival on but maybe not. I'm trying hard not to plan anything.

Hi just read your post about being in AKL for your birthday. We are arriving October 21st, a week later than my birthday; however, I think I'll get a birthday button and celebrate anyway.

I'll just miss you. Happy early birthday!

Now that is a cliffhanger! My DH has those moments, but thankfully so do I so I can call us even. I can't wait to read how it resolved itself (I am sure it did)

I am sorry to read that your FIL is not doing well. I hope that your DH's birthday party is a huge success...

Oh, I have many of those moments too. It's just that you are getting this story from me. I can only imagine what Dh would say.

In fact, I had quite a few breakdown moments getting ready for the pig roast last weekend. Not that I sat down on a curb or even stopped cleaning or getting ready but I made sure Dh knew I was overwhelmed and needed him to help out.

It all turned out fine in the end and then the next day we had Jedi (DS8)'s birthday party too. Only his was at the bowling alley!

By the way, I had my "Boo Tree" in my signature but it took up too much room so I had to delete it. I couldn't see how many days were left in my countdown. Thanks for it though!

Diamondintheruff

09-28-2009, 12:35 PM

Tnkrbelle565

09-28-2009, 12:48 PM

How did i miss the last update??? Weird. Anyway, I can't believe that the human octopus known as your DH got out of his seat on MS. I would have killed him. I was screaming at Randy on that ride. I was convinced if he didn't hit his button on time, the ride would never end :rotfl:

You know you should have given him a good kick while he was on the ground so often right????

Food looks good at France. France always scares me because i keep thinking the food will be too fancy. But then i see pics and it always looks so yummy.

One word for your next trip to WDW....IMMODIUM!

Diamondintheruff

09-28-2009, 01:07 PM

One word for your next trip to WDW....IMMODIUM!

I will put it on the top of my list!

portocall

09-28-2009, 10:24 PM

Charleston Princess

09-29-2009, 06:08 AM

Between the curb-sitting and the bathroom breaks, I am seeing the potential for much drama for us this coming weekend...:headache: I am going to try and remember your technique of back-rubbing and sympathetic murmurings. ;)

Those French waiters are something, aren't they? I may have to eat at Chefs de France one of these days. :laughing:

Diamondintheruff

09-29-2009, 07:49 AM

Hey, no problem.
The food in France looked yummy. We are stuck going to eat at Marrakesh in Morraco because my DH insisted upon it. It was the one restaurant out of six that he picked so I kinda felt obligated to make it happen for him.

Grey Goose Slushies are strong. That is good to know cause I plan on indulging.

The food was amazing at france and so were the waiters.

The slushies are very strong. You might want to avoid them on an empty stomach.

Between the curb-sitting and the bathroom breaks, I am seeing the potential for much drama for us this coming weekend...:headache: I am going to try and remember your technique of back-rubbing and sympathetic murmurings. ;)

Those French waiters are something, aren't they? I may have to eat at Chefs de France one of these days. :laughing:

Good luck.

If I was to do this again with Dh (which of course I am next month) I would make it a priority to keep him well hydrated, even blood sugar levels (which of course is easier to tell on Charles as you will actually be checking his) and plan to do about half the amount of things I know I could do myself.

Yes, visiting chefs du france is a bit like going to a european hooters for women.

Charleston Princess

09-29-2009, 08:00 AM

Good luck.

If I was to do this again with Dh (which of course I am next month) I would make it a priority to keep him well hydrated, even blood sugar levels (which of course is easier to tell on Charles as you will actually be checking his) and plan to do about half the amount of things I know I could do myself.

That's a good way to approach things -- I think I may follow your lead on that one!

Yes, visiting chefs du france is a bit like going to a european hooters for women.

:lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: I love this analogy!!!

Tiggerrn2

09-29-2009, 10:58 PM

Didn't try the Grey Goose slushie, but the GrandMarnier Orange slush is wonderful!

Diamondintheruff

09-30-2009, 08:18 AM

Didn't try the Grey Goose slushie, but the GrandMarnier Orange slush is wonderful!

I tried to convince Dh to get the orange slushie instead of the lemon grey goose slushie so I could compare the two. I'll try again next month.

According to your ticket it looks like I'll be leaving the day you arrive. Maybe we'll cross paths in the airport.

Lady Lallie

09-30-2009, 08:46 AM

Eurpeon Hooters! I love it. :laughing: :rotfl2: :lmao:

DearDaisyinDurham

10-01-2009, 10:09 PM

You ARE truly patient, Diamond. You must love the man!!
I am feeling really good about having an ADR at Le Chefs de France after your pictures & review!!! ( one of your top lines ever - you tried to get DH to move out of the way :rotfl2: )

Hugs xoxo

DISNEYLOVER70

10-02-2009, 10:27 AM

I have been lurking for a few days now and catching up on all your posts......I have to tell you, I caught myself laughing outloud several times. Especially with the one track mind your husband has (everything relates back to the bedroom somehow) my husband is just like that. As much as it annoys me at times, it is nice to know we still turn the light on for them :rotfl:

Thanks for sharing and I will continue to read !

Tiggerrn2

10-02-2009, 10:47 AM

I tried to convince Dh to get the orange slushie instead of the lemon grey goose slushie so I could compare the two. I'll try again next month.

According to your ticket it looks like I'll be leaving the day you arrive. Maybe we'll cross paths in the airport.

We will be arriving in Orlando around 10am. Look us up in the Magic Express line:rolleyes1if you happen to be there. We'll be the 3 ladies with no gents looking way too happy to be there.

Diamondintheruff

10-03-2009, 11:43 PM

While I waited outside France for Dh I should have gotten another grey goose slushie. The thought did cross my mind but I was thrown off track by the serveur amusant who was performing.

Shame.:sad2: About missing the drink not the performance. He was good.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/7f7402fe.jpg

I missed the very beginning of his act but Dh and I stayed to watch the end. Then we turned our attention to saving the world or rather our Kim Possible mission.

Here I am with our kimcommunicator receiving top-secret information.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/40fcb665.jpg

We only did one mission. It was cute. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone.:ssst:

We talked about doing another one but decided it was time to head back to the resort for a rest. I was afraid I was going to end up face to face or rather curb-to-curb with another meltdown from Dh if I kept him going at this rate.

“So that’s it then. We’re going back to the room right?”Dh asked.

Technically we were on our way but I was open to anything that peaked my curiosity on the way.

“I thought we could wander through England since we’re here. But basically yes, we are on our way back to the room.”

“If we are wandering then we’re really not on our way to the room. So are we wandering or leaving?”

I should have know he would have caught me on this. Wandering to him is the same as shopping. If it doesn't have a specific purpose he doesn't want to waste his time. But if I may add he's just find and dandy with channel surfing.

“Wandering. But I have to tell you if your plan was to suck all the joy out of wandering then you’re doing a grand old job of it.” I answered.

“Whoa. Apparently the vodka has worn off. I just wanted to know what the plan was. We can wander or not. You decide.”

So I could decide but he would only be happy if I said we're leaving. So really I had to decide to either make him happy or me.

I choose me.

"Wander. You don't have to follow. We have our own keys."

"I don't want to go back without you."

"Well then I guess you're wandering too".

I tried to wander but… well… the point of wandering is to get lost in the moment. I was too aware of Dh trying to follow me trying to wander.

It just didn’t work.
:crazy2:

He was right. I should have picked up another drink.
:drinking1:

I wandered us right out of the world showcase.

"Look it's a Butterfly Garden!"

"Oh Goody" Dh replied.

"Oh be nice. Come on. Let's take a look."

I did have a bunch more pictures but I lost them when my computer crashed. These will have to do.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/2a819d26.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/8edacc0d.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/009b5ad1.jpg

I saw Mousegears in the horizon.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/c2ce206e.jpg

With the glimmer of shopping in my eye I directed us there.

I know lots of you just love this store but I’m afraid I can’t count myself in the mix. I think I’m always too tired when I finally descend upon it. Or perhaps it's still the fallout from this next showdown.

Dh was hovering again. Or rather joy sucking. (Is there not a smilie vaccum?)

Mostly it was my joy he was sucking up but I did notice many shoppers giving him a wide berth in the aisles. Either they realized his joy sucking potential or he was blowing wind. He did have an upset tummy from lunch.
:sick:

“Are you done in here yet?” He asked as I finished my initial circle of the circumference.

I answered with a hairy eyeball glare and continued making my examinations of the interior.
:magnify:

“What are you looking for?” He tried again.

I figured the ignoring thing wasn’t working so I was going to have to be specific with him.

“I’m looking to pass some time looking at things I could possibly buy if the item strikes my fancy.” I answered.

“So you’re not looking for a watch or the gifts for the kids?”

“Well, of course I’m looking for those too. But just so you know (think dripping with sarcasm) I am able to look for more than one thing at a time.”

“Hey, I’m just trying to help. You don’t need to jump all over me again. You said we were on our way to the buses and yet we’ve wasted more than five minutes in here already.”

“Wasted time?” I repeated it again which really should have been a hint for him.
:furious:

“Wasted time. I don’t feel I am wasting any time. I am looking and dare I say wandering for the sheer enjoyment of it. Shocker that that may be. You have made it quite clear that YOU ARE NOT enjoying yourself but let me state what should be obvious. I AM HAPPY. I enjoy looking around. (Then I put on my birthday hat again as I felt he needed to be reminded) This is my birthday trip and after almost twenty years together you should know that I like to shop. Find yourself something to do because I’m not done until I’m done.”

He headed out to the book section and I don’t know what he did. I don’t care. I just know he stopped being in my shadow.

It took a few minutes of faking it to make it. Meaning that I was too angry to enjoy shopping at first but soon was back into my groove. I did keep a close watch on the time though. I toyed with the idea of spending hours in there. You know. Just to annoy him. But in the end I only lasted another 10 minutes.

Then I bought something. Well two things.

A mug and a book. I used my birthday fun card. The mug has the seagulls from Finding Nemo on it and the words mine, mine, mine all around the rim. The book is The Kingdom Keepers.

Dh rejoined me at the cash.

“Truce?” He asked.

“Truce.”

“I know I’m bugging you about it but can we go back to the hotel now?”

“What’s the big deal if we get back now or an hour from now? We’ve got a really late dinner tonight so there is still plenty of time to relax at the pool”

“It’s not the relaxing that I’m looking forward to” He grinned as he wrapped his arm around my shoulder.

I had to laugh. In fact I guess I was more tired than I realized because I laughed so hard I had to sit down.

Of course the only place to sit was the curb so we found ourselves in our familiar crouched position.
:chat:

“What’s so funny?” he asked.

“Let me get this straight. All this time you’ve just be trying to get me back to the room so we can be alone?”

“Yup”

“Even when I’ve been yelling at you and telling you to go away?”

“You can’t get rid of me that easily.”

“Yes, I’ve noticed.”

“So what do you say? Can we call it quit here and spend some time doing the horizontal mamba?”
:dancer:

Just then I spotted a photopass photographer by the fountains.

“After our pictures.”

“Aww.”

“Come on. We missed them this morning coming into the park so I want to get them now. The more pictures we take the more money I've saved by pre-ordering the CD.”

I thought talking saving money would keep him in a good mood. However, it turns out he only had one mood in mind. In the end he put up with getting the pictures taken because I promised I would put up with him once we got back to the hotel.

Another family jumped the photographer before we got to him. So we had to wait.

I took this while waiting.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/d6a8ca41.jpg

Continued in next post http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33819160&postcount=297

Diamondintheruff

10-03-2009, 11:44 PM

Here are the shots. You can all guess why he's smiling so big.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/a04fab2e.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/b3b2c377.jpg

Whoa doggy. A little too eager in this one.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/ae03347b.jpg

I think this one is cute.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/4748a0df.jpg

But then we had to wait for the fountain to spray. Of course Dh thought that was just the funniest.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/fe21e549.jpg

We left the photographer and I took this picture on our way out. If I do say so myself, I was pleased with the way it turned out.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/4abdf003.jpg

Just when Dh thought he had me out of the park I spotted another photopass photographer.

I needed to get our photo's done in front of the Epcot ball. I can't even remember what kind of promise I had to make to get these pictures but then again I couldn't tell you on here anyway.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/9878c097.jpg

Kind of looks like he's wearing a tiny red hat in this one.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/e4086179.jpg

Finally we exited the park. At least I figure that's what was going through Dh's brain.

We waited about 5 minutes for a bus for the AKL. It wasn’t busy and Dh thought I dozed off on the ride.
:cloud9:

Between you and me I didn’t really sleep but it seemed safer for everyone on the bus if Dh thought I was asleep. Mr. Octopus was less likely to make an appearance.

Of course there was no stopping him from showing up once we made it to our room. But by then I wasn't trying to stop him.
:lovestruc:

No cliffhanger this time. Just a funny thought. I saw a costume the other day and thought about buying it for Dh to wear it to MNSSHP. It was a purple Octopus!

Click here for the next chapter. I change the plans. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33856103&postcount=310

Diamondintheruff

10-04-2009, 12:08 AM

Eurpeon Hooters! I love it. :laughing: :rotfl2: :lmao:

Maybe I'm on to something here. Or maybe I've just been watching too many re-runs of the Office.

You ARE truly patient, Diamond. You must love the man!!
I am feeling really good about having an ADR at Le Chefs de France after your pictures & review!!! ( one of your top lines ever - you tried to get DH to move out of the way :rotfl2: )

Hugs xoxo

I loved chefs du france. I have no doubt you will too. And yes, I do love Mr Diamond too.

I have been lurking for a few days now and catching up on all your posts......I have to tell you, I caught myself laughing outloud several times. Especially with the one track mind your husband has (everything relates back to the bedroom somehow) my husband is just like that. As much as it annoys me at times, it is nice to know we still turn the light on for them :rotfl:

Thanks for sharing and I will continue to read !

Welcome! It is really scary when you start your report thinking no one is out there reading it so I'm always thrilled to hear from people who have taken the time to read it. I'm glad you're enjoying Dh. In truth I'm not even publishing half of all the comments he made to me this trip. One track mind for sure!

I like the analogy of turning the light on for them. I'm going to tell Dh that one. And yes, it both annoys and pleases me. I might not tell him that though.

We will be arriving in Orlando around 10am. Look us up in the Magic Express line:rolleyes1if you happen to be there. We'll be the 3 ladies with no gents looking way too happy to be there.

I'm jealous that you'll be all on your own. Perhaps I should lend you my Dh? I could just pass him over to you at the airport.

mollyseven

10-04-2009, 08:34 AM

Wow, great post Diamond and great photos. Now I see why you weren't at the hockey game last night....you were home doing this! I have never ordered the photopass c.d but I am guessing after seeing all your photos it must be a good thing?
O.k we were planning on eating at tutto italia in March but now I continue to look at and re-look at the chef's menu trying to figure out what my kids would eat there so that I can go and see these waiters in person.....any idea if the italian restaurant has some this nice? haha
Funny thing...this morning as I read the travel section of the toronto star there was a food review from Naples italy and I was reading it outloud to my DH....he then says...would you prefer to go to Italy instead of Disney....I am like Ahhhh yeah! and he says o.k cancel disney then and book Italy!! .... o.k I am sitting here still thinking.... how can I get my airtran money back??? haha.... he clearly knows they must be non-refundable or he isn't totally awake. All I said is our Disney trip is about 6 grand and I am sure Italy would be about 10. ...
could he have been serious?
Oh well.....next time. My kids are already excited that we are going for 11 days at march break I couldn't dissappoint them now. But the next trip.....for sure is Italy. haha
Can't wait to hear how your October trip goes. Will you be dressing up?

Lady Lallie

10-04-2009, 09:34 AM

Diamondintheruff

10-04-2009, 09:52 AM

Wow, great post Diamond and great photos. Now I see why you weren't at the hockey game last night....you were home doing this!

I told Dh you saw him there and he said. "Great Disney spies now".

Eeoyre (DS11) and I stayed home. Cindy (DD8) and Jedi (DS7) had their first Hockey practises yesterday morning and as uncanadian as it may be, that was enough Hockey for one day for me.

I have never ordered the photopass c.d but I am guessing after seeing all your photos it must be a good thing?

It's a good deal if you pre-order it and an even better deal if you can share it with someone. I've been really lucky and had people I know to share it with. The pictures are way better than mine and then you get everyone in them.

O.k we were planning on eating at tutto italia in March but now I continue to look at and re-look at the chef's menu trying to figure out what my kids would eat there so that I can go and see these waiters in person.....any idea if the italian restaurant has some this nice? haha

Actually I have heard on other people's reports that indeed this is the case. So you should be good.

he then says...would you prefer to go to Italy instead of Disney....I am like Ahhhh yeah! and he says o.k cancel disney then and book Italy!! ....
could he have been serious?

Wow. That would be awesome. But you know if you are already in Italy you might as well do some country hopping and book yourself a real European tour. You might even be able to throw Euro Disney in there too!

Happydog

10-04-2009, 10:01 AM

Okay, I just found your PTR, seeing your post on my TR for October! I didn't realize you were still working on this one, so NOW I can't wait to keep reading... I just happened to zip over to the Epcot/slushie/smootchie post, and laughed out loud on that one.. I think this was the same reason why my DH was pushing for a 2 bedroom villa for our last vacation!!! :rolleyes1 SO funny. Okay, so now I will go back and read and I can't wait to finish this BEFORE you head off to MNSSHP! Which, you will LOVE if you have not already been.. Are you going with kids? I have to read! :surfweb: Glad I found your TR/PTR!!! :thumbsup2

Tnkrbelle565

10-04-2009, 12:17 PM

You HAVE to buy the Octopus Costume (is the the one from the Wiggles???)

akayek31

10-04-2009, 12:39 PM

I love Epcot. I should have spent another day on my trip. I am going to fix that this trip. I love reading about your hubby's meltdowns and yours'. Are you doing a PTR for the next trip?

Diamondintheruff

10-04-2009, 01:21 PM

I totally think you should buy the Octopus costume. :rotfl2:

My DH gets like that about the mall. I have to a purpose to get him into there with me and then if I want to wander forget it. So much easier to go without him. :rotfl2:

I agree. I try to leave him at home when shopping at all times. To make matters worse I have two boys that are taking after him in the shopping department.

Okay, I just found your PTR, seeing your post on my TR for October! I didn't realize you were still working on this one, so NOW I can't wait to keep reading... I just happened to zip over to the Epcot/slushie/smootchie post, and laughed out loud on that one.. I think this was the same reason why my DH was pushing for a 2 bedroom villa for our last vacation!!! :rolleyes1 SO funny. Okay, so now I will go back and read and I can't wait to finish this BEFORE you head off to MNSSHP! Which, you will LOVE if you have not already been.. Are you going with kids? I have to read! :surfweb: Glad I found your TR/PTR!!! :thumbsup2

Thanks for joining in!

Speaking of finishing I have to finish this before we head off.

Although I have linked all my chapters on the first page I don't think I linked any information about my upcoming trip. I will be doing a update about it later today.

You HAVE to buy the Octopus Costume (is the the one from the Wiggles???)

No it wasn't from the wiggles. So far I think Henry the Octopus has stayed clean. Not like Pee-Wee Herman.

I love Epcot. I should have spent another day on my trip. I am going to fix that this trip. I love reading about your hubby's meltdowns and yours'. Are you doing a PTR for the next trip?

We're heading to the food and wine festival at Epcot this next trip. But I will write more about that coming up next.

Diamondintheruff

10-04-2009, 01:56 PM

My next trip is Friday October 16th to Monday October 19th.

It is just Dh and I.

:hug:

No kids. He really getting away without the kids and wanted to go someplace else alone again. I had credits on southwest airlines that were going to expire in November. So poof it was off to Disney for us again.

The original plan was to stay at POP, go to a water park one day and MNSSHP the next day so no park tickets were needed and we couldn't get free dinning.

Then I played with the numbers. The food numbers. I figured out it would cost us a little less if we went with free dining, skipped the water park and went with a one day ticket instead. So that's what we did. I'm finally going with free dining baby!

Then I started thinking about how great it was to stay at AKL last April and that maybe staying at POP would be a let down. I did some price comparisons. I couldn't afford to upgrade to a deluxe again so I decided to upgrade to a moderate. We've stayed at POR and I wanted to try something new. I like the look of CBR but was afraid that I would miss the kids if we stayed there. Then my TA told me that the Coronado Springs is slated to be moved into a more expensive moderate category soon. So I took her advice and booked Coronando Springs.

But Shhh because Dh doesn't know I upgraded us.

I've decided not to do a PTR. I just don't think I'll have time. Especially since I really want to finish this one before I leave.

At this point in time I'm still thinking of doing a trip report however, I'm beginning to doubt that we will be doing anything that exciting to write about. So we'll just see how the weekend goes.

The Plan for the weekend goes like this.

Friday
-Arrival mid afternoon.
-Do nothing. Just relax.
-Eat dinner at the food court. I figure it will be Dh's favorite day.:laughing:

Saturday
-Tonga Toast for breakfast at Kona!
-Then food and wine festival where we'll have lunch.
-Off to Raglan Road for late dinner.

Sunday
-Sleep in.
-Late breakfast at 1900 Park faire so late it's pretty much lunch.
-Relax at resort all afternoon (unless I can convice Dh to do a DVC tour)
-Dinner at CP (this one is one too many Table services but Dh wanted it. Go figure?:confused3)
-MNSSHP. We're not dressing up but I do have Halloween t-shirts for us to wear. I'm going to attempt to stay for fireworks. Usually I hate the crowds and I was hoping for the dessert party but it was either full or not offered that night. I've tried many times.:guilty:

Monday
-Home. We'll be back in buffalo by dinner time and after our 3.5 hour drive home at bedtime.

So that's the plan. I'm trying not to pack too much in. After all we were just there in April and I suspect we will be back in July. Two of my kids dance and if they qualify will be dancing in a competition in Orlando at the beginning of July. Not the time I would have picked to go back again but the point is we're going back.

:dance3:

Nancy for Disney

10-05-2009, 10:26 PM

Great updates.

I hope you enjoy your trip. :)

Charleston Princess

10-05-2009, 10:29 PM

Good lookin' plans, Diamond! I vote for a TR -- you just have to for us! :laughing:

Tiggerrn2

10-06-2009, 10:28 PM

Diamond, If you are paying the money for the party, be sure to stick around for the fireworks and don't miss the parade. They are the biggest reasons to do the party in the first place. Both are completely different from regular park entertainment. I have done this party twice and plan to do it again the 20th. Can't wait! I love it!

Diamondintheruff

10-06-2009, 10:36 PM

When I last left you we had just returned from Epcot and a lovely lunch at chefs du france. Dh had visited the curb numerous times and I had exploded in mousegears. We were both tired and had hit the Epcot wall. We had returned back to the hotel room to rest.

After our nap *ahem * I wanted to check out the pool. Dh wanted to go to the gift shop.

"What did you just say?" I asked dumbfounded.

"I'm going to go to the gift shop."

"The what?"

"You know the gift shop down in the Lobby on the first floor"

I was shocked.:scared1:

I know you must be too. I couldn’t believe Dh wanted to go shopping. This is the man that was timing me at Mousegears. So I kept asking him questions. It turned out that he knew his package from the Magic Kingdom the other night had been shipped to our gift shop and he wanted to pick up some Mickey Mouse Rice Krispie Heads with our snack credits to take home to the kids. He didn’t want to buy anything new.

So all was right with the world after all. Good to know.

However, I was not to be deterred. I heard the words “going to the gift shop” and in a flash I was by his side. I could do the pool later.

So off we went. Him with the intentions of getting in and out of the shop without spending any money and me with the intentions of spending both time and money in the store.

First stop was the back desk to check on our package. They did indeed have our package with Cindy’s (DD8) Minnie Mouse stuffed animal with a blanket and our Cinderella castle pictures in it. Dh picked up three rice krispie treats, charged them to our dinning plan and was all set to leave.

Isn't he efficient?

I was staying put for the time being. He wasn't happy to hear this. However, he seemed to have been listening to my earlier outburst in Mousegears because although his face clearly exposed his horror at the thought of more shopping he meekly mumbled he would be sitting at a chair in the lobby waiting for me when I was ready.

Good boy.pluto:

I examined the hats, then the jewelry, then the picture frames.

I almost bought a t-shirt for Cindy (DD8) but was reminded by Dh when he came into the store to check on me that she was the only one we had a present for. We needed the presents for the other two kids. So I didn't buy it.

I left the store empty handed. :upsidedow:sad2:

I haven’t mentioned it in a few chapters so I’ll go over it once again. Our three kids had each asked for a specific gift from WDW. Eeoyre (DS11) wanted a glow in the dark string toy that he bought two years ago but had kicked the bucket since. Cindy (DD8) wanted the Minnie Mouse stuffy and Jedi (DS6) wanted a Jedi Robe. So far we had tracked down one. We had about 24 hours left to find the other two.

I did see the string toy Eeoyre wanted in mousegears earlier today. I was going to go back tonight to get it. But no luck with the Jedi Robe. Dh asked a CM while we were in mousegears and was given the standard “They are in MGM” answer. Only we weren’t going to MGM this trip. Or were we. It started me thinking.

:idea:

That’s right folks. I was going to possibly change my plans.:eek:

Shocking indeed!

You see tomorrow was our last day. We were leaving late afternoon. I had reservations for us at the spa at the grand Floridian. I wasn’t going to take us into the park at all. So I hadn’t gotten enough days in our package to go to the parks tomorrow.

But when I did the math changing the plan made sense.

Spa Day
-2 massages at $90 each equals $180 plus tips.

MGM
-add an extra day to two park tickets $6 each equals $12
-A Jedi Robe to give to our son $40 (but to quote Mastercard) the look on his face while receiving it … priceless.

Dh picked up on the financial savings immediately and declared us MGM bound tomorrow. We were now changing our laid in stone plans all to get our youngest son a Jedi Robe.

By the way ask me how often he wears his robe?

He put it on for a picture and has never worn it since. NOT once. And I have tried. Many a time at the breakfast table when he is cold I have ran to his room and brought him the Jedi robe. But he refuses. He likes his other housecoat. It’s fleece and softer.

I tried to get him to use it as an after swim cover up. I have brought it to numerous trips to the cottage and to friend’s pools. Would he ever wear it? NOT once.

But hindsight is 20/20. Dh really thought he had to bring home this robe for his young son. Now that I know how little he really cared for the robe I kind of wish we had of gone to the spa.

Since I didn’t have the foresight to know about the true importance of finding this Jedi robe I went ahead and changed our park tickets. I had to go back to the front desk to add a day on. I looked to make sure that little Miss I can’t seem to find your reservation who checked us in the first day wasn’t on duty. She wasn’t. Thank goodness.

Then I went back up to the room and called the spa to cancel. It only hurt a little. I told myself I can always go to a spa back home. But as I write this it has been 4 months since then and I still haven’t gone. Sigh.

Anyway, back to the report.

Soon I was feeling psyched that we would be heading to MGM after all and grabbed all my notes about that park I had with me to take down to the pool to catch up on them. I needed a new plan.

I was feeling so good about saving us all that money that I decided to forgo my regular mix it yourself in the room drink of diet coke and coconut rum and splurged on a pool side drink.

Unlike some other Disers I didn’t see a pool side server and had to walk my sorry self down to the pool bar. Yes, Queen I am talking about you. Of course I also wasn’t sporting a bathing suit with cash stashed in the bikini bottom. I had one of those all black tummy tucker guaranteed to make it look like you’ve lost 10 pounds bathing suits on. I wouldn’t have been able to stick anything in my suit due to the heavy duty sucker inner liner it had. I even had to sip by drink slowly for fear of bursting out of my suit.

Speaking of drinks I’m afraid to admit that I can’t remember what I got. I’m sorry it’s really not proper Diser behaviour. I think it was orangish. I’m guessing it was strong because I didn’t right it down in my journal. Plus in my defense, I was very focused on getting our new plan just right.

Me and my unremarkable pool side drink sat down on a lounge chair at the pool and got cracking. It wasn’t long before I had it worked out.

I was enjoying myself just relaxing at the pool. Dh spent most of his time in the pool and hot tub but I mostly sat and worked on the plan.

Eventually Dh talked me into leaving the pool (it was well after 5:30) and heading back up to the room for another nap. At least let’s just call it that even though you all know what I’m really talking about.:rolleyes1

Our dinner reservations were very late tonight 8:45 pm but they were at one of the most coveted restaurants in Epcot. I was okay with the late time because I knew we would be full from lunch and had no intentions of watching illuminations so all was good.

Which restaurant was it? Click here to find out. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33870477&postcount=317

Diamondintheruff

10-06-2009, 10:54 PM

Great updates.

I hope you enjoy your trip. :)

Thank you.

I'm packing raincoats (for weather), alcohol (for cranky husbands) and immodium (for sore stomachs). So hopefully that will ensure a enjoyable trip!

Good lookin' plans, Diamond! I vote for a TR -- you just have to for us! :laughing:

Welcome home!

Thanks for the vote of confidence. We'll just see how the trip turns out before I commit to another report.

Diamond, If you are paying the money for the party, be sure to stick around for the fireworks and don't miss the parade. They are the biggest reasons to do the party in the first place. Both are completely different from regular park entertainment. I have done this party twice and plan to do it again the 20th. Can't wait! I love it!

I've been repeating the mantra "I can sit in the crowds and watch bright lights and explosions overhead" nightly. Here's hoping it works.

DearDaisyinDurham

10-06-2009, 11:07 PM

Hi Diamond! I'm going to guess - Le Cellier??

Tnkrbelle565

10-07-2009, 10:18 AM

twice in one day huh??? WDW brings out the best in you ;) :rotfl:

I'm guessing Le Cellier (you are Canadian after all!)....my 2nd guess is Chef's.

UNLESS, you are being ironic and have a ressie at an EASY to get place?!?!? hmmmm....:confused3

Diamondintheruff

10-07-2009, 12:25 PM

Hi Diamond! I'm going to guess - Le Cellier??

I do looove le cellier. :lovestruc

I'm totally going to get some of that cheese soup at the F&W festival. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it now.

twice in one day huh??? WDW brings out the best in you ;) :rotfl:

I'm guessing Le Cellier (you are Canadian after all!)....my 2nd guess is Chef's.

UNLESS, you are being ironic and have a ressie at an EASY to get place?!?!? hmmmm....:confused3

And the day is not even over yet!

You don't think little ol' me would deliberately lead you the wrong tree do you?

Charleston Princess

10-07-2009, 10:09 PM

lisalonglash

10-07-2009, 10:39 PM

Diamondintheruff

10-07-2009, 11:59 PM

My last chapter explained why we cancelled our spa day in exchange for an extra day at the parks. MGM to be exact and our quest for the Jedi robe for our youngest son. I spent the afternoon at the pool, mapping out a plan for MGM and recovering from our morning at Epcot. And I napped. Twice. It wore me out so much I actually slept.

I woke up to drips of water on my face. I opened my eyes to see Dh standing over me in a wet bathing suit and towel. He had snuck out and gone into the hot tub while I slept. So much for the theory that men sleep afterwards.:confused3

He had left me a note in case I woke up. Which I hadn’t. It was almost 7pm. We had to giddy up if we wanted to do any rides before our ADR at Epcot.

In no time I had gussied myself up and Dh had dried himself off and we were on our way to the buses. Once again luck was on our side and a bus was right there.

We used our soarin fastpasses and only had about a 10-minute wait for the ride. I figured everyone was in world showcase.

Then we hightailed it to one of our favorite restaurants in Epcot.

Le cellier.:lovestruc

Here is a picture of me outside of the restaurant. It's pretty dark so I don't know if you can even see the le cellier sign or not.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/3e259de6.jpg

Our reservation/ADR whatever they call it now was for 8:45. We waited and waited to be seated. It got lonely out there. They called everyone but us. In fact we were the last ones waiting out there and I’m sure we were the last ones served that night.

We had a nice waiter from the “Sue”. Otherwise known as Sault St. Marie, Ontario. His name was Patrick. He said he would “take care of us” and he did a lovely job. He even bought me a complementary champagne glass with floating strawberries for my birthday. However, I didn’t take a picture of it. I’ll get to that in a moment.

We weren’t the last ones to have our meals brought out to us as we ordered the moment he greeted us. Once again we had looked at the pre-printed menus from allears plus had waited by the posted menu outside for so long that we totally knew what we were having.

This was our last full day and in all the other restaurants I was fine about taking food pictures. But for some reason, I’m guessing it was the intimate nature of the restaurant I suddenly felt silly about pulling out my camera and taking pictures. Even though I had no problem earlier in the day at lunch and breakfast.

There was another couple from Canada sitting beside us. Eventually I found out they were from B.C. I noticed them because he was writing notes in a book and recording their meal. They had a real camera too. Not a point and shoot like I have. Not that I’m camera savvy but he a lens on his camera a porn star would be jealous of.

I’m guessing I felt self conscious about taking my pictures because I suddenly felt that maybe I’m just a small fry Disney freak on the disboards. I only had a little notebook, a little camera and a little following on my trip reports. I started doubting my trip writing abilities.

Then I finished the champagne. Nothing like a little alcohol to give you a little boost.

But I didn’t finish the champagne until after the appetizers. So I know I had the cheese soup but I couldn’t tell you what Dh had. I only had eyes for my soup.

“How’s the soup?”

“Wonderful.”

“Can I have a taste?”

“Of my soup?”

“Yeah”

“No. Get your own.”

“Come on”

A spoon attempts it’s way across the table. It gets pushed back.

“I’ve waited a long time for this. If you wanted some you should have ordered it yourself. I’m NOT sharing.”

I wasn’t fooling with the soup.
:mad:

Around now the official note taking couple notices my lime green Mickey head on my lime green park bag. I know this because I see him point it out to his wife.

The champagne has kicked in and I jump on in.

“Are you on the disboards?"

“Yes, I don’t post very often”

“I couldn’t help but notice that you’re recording everything in your notebook. Are you writing a trip report?’

“No. We just like to keep notes to compare for our own purposes.”

I was still feeling a bit shy and they seemed as if they weren’t overly interested in carrying on a conversation so I didn’t talk to them much more. You know how some people just love to talk your ear off on vacation? I didn’t want to be one of them.

They were the only other people who even noticed my lime green Mickey head all trip so I was sorry they weren’t more interested in carrying on a conversation.

I did find out his screen name and he did tell me they their favorite resort is Coronado Springs. Which is funny now that I think of it because that’s where I’ve chosen to stay next week for our trip. Their eyes lit up when they spoke of their love for that resort. I think that’s one of the reasons I wanted to check it out.

I also shared my screen name and trip report title. He said he thought he had heard of it but I think he was just being nice.

After that I took pictures of our food. So here is our creamed spinach with cheese on top. So yummy.:love:

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/364b2a00.jpg

My steak. I’m a well-done kind of gal. I loved the potatoes. I know not everyone does but I did.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/77ff2ff2.jpg

Dh got the same steak although he prefers his meat medium or medium rare. At one time I had a funny about preferring his meat "diamond style" but I think I'm took tired to work out the wording on it. Anyway, I don't know where the picture of his meal went. It looked just like mine only more pink.

We didn’t get desert. We were just too full after the bread (love that pretzel bread. Never had that at home in Canada before), soup and entrée. I couldn’t even think about taking desert home in a doggie bag. I was just too full.

We waddled into mousegears. Dh was in a silly mood. He actually tried on some hats and made funny faces. I wish I had thought to pull out the camera for it.

What a change of attitude from earlier today when we were in there.

I bought a glow in the dark string toy and a kooky klicker pen shaped like Nemo for Eeoyre (DS10). So now all I had to do was get the Jedi robe for our other son.

Just in case you don’t know what a kooky klicker is it is a pen. They have faces on them and you can clip them on to things. They are all the rage at my kid’s school. Well, it is my school too. Some kids have five or six clipped on to their backpacks. I don’t really understand it as we’re talking elementary school here so the kid’s can’t even write with pen yet. They are still using pencils. Anyhow I gave into the fad and bought one. Dh was not happy with the price. He lost his good humour for a few minutes.

We totally missed Illuminations while we were eating dinner. The park was closing and the buses were pretty empty.

Of course I had to wait for Dh to take a bio-break before heading on the buses. I couldn’t get off that easy.

On the bus we met another couple who were that couple that talks your ear off. I heard all about their latest surgeries, their hassles with their daughter-in-law and even their problems with their town mayor. They were celebrating their 26th anniversary and this was their first trip as DVC owners. I was hoping Dh would ask some DVC related questions and show some interest in it. Sadly no. He was interested in their town politics though. Figures.

When we got back to the room I prepared a game plan to battle Mr. Octopus. I figured this time I would play offense instead of defense. Make a sneak attack when he wasn’t expecting it.

I made some commotion about having to pack tonight as we were leaving tomorrow. I even went through the motions. I headed into the bathroom in the guise of packing up the toiletries but really I was putting on my game face.

I quietly came out of the bathroom ready to face my opponent when what did I see? click here to find out. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33900188&postcount=327

Diamondintheruff

10-08-2009, 12:13 AM

Isn't that so typical of kids to ask for something and then never look at it twice!!! I think a Jedi robe would make a great pool cover-up! :thumbsup2

You must have had an Orange Dream -- I had one of those poolside at AKL as well -- it was quite good -- and I never saw a poolside server either -- I didn't know such creatures existed! :laughing:

The Orange Dream sounds familiar. Let's go with that.

I miss Chefs de France!

About time he got with the program! ::yes::

Call the spa tomorrow! :idea:

I know what you're talking about :rotfl: I'm sure you looked lovely in your suit, J! :cheer2:

I actually think chefs is my favorite now. But closely followed by le cellier.

I can't always count on when Dh will be with the program. It's more than half the time now thank godness. Interesting to see how he does on our next trip.

I can't book the spa now. I blew the budget on disney and then our dog had an operation monday and I just bought the kids and I tickets to see Stomp. I've used all our spending money. Maybe in a few months?

I actually have a picture of me in the bathing suit. I'll be posting it later. I must stay in chronological order you know.

eandesmom

10-08-2009, 02:02 AM

Oh my goodness. How I got so far behind is beyond me!

Beset with some tummy troubles my goodness!

All rectified by plenty of mambo.

Whew! I am all caught up finally.

And if it is any consolation whatsoever....I didn't find the GF spa to be "all that" for the price. I think you made a wise choice on that one. You'll have other spa moments. Only one Jedi robe never to be worn again...

Charleston Princess

10-08-2009, 06:03 AM

Diamondintheruff

10-08-2009, 09:01 AM

What a lovely dinner at Le Cellier -- after trying the yummy selections at the Canada kiosk this past weekend, the restaurant has jumped onto our must-dos for a future trip! That cheddar cheese soup is delicious! I had to laugh about your unwillingness to share. :laughing:

I like my meat well-done, too. I can't stand to have any pink in it! :sad2:

You really must give le cellier a try. If only to see the look on Connor and Chelsea's face when they order a smore or a mouse for desert.

Hey you've got to get your new trip report in your signature. Got to lure in those readers!

Oh my goodness. How I got so far behind is beyond me!

Beset with some tummy troubles my goodness!

All rectified by plenty of mambo.

And Dh thinks he doesn't like to dance. I will have to share my "mambo" reference with him.

And if it is any consolation whatsoever....I didn't find the GF spa to be "all that" for the price. I think you made a wise choice on that one. You'll have other spa moments. Only one Jedi robe never to be worn again...

In my previous life (aka before teaching) I was a massage therapist so I've worked at few spas. I always see the cracks in their foundations anyway. Plus it's still hard for me to switch to customer mode so it's probably best I didn't go.

mollyseven

10-08-2009, 01:33 PM

Wow. That would be awesome. But you know if you are already in Italy you might as well do some country hopping and book yourself a real European tour. You might even be able to throw Euro Disney in there too!

Well I have already done the whole european tour thing and really just want to do Italy now, well..... maybe Greece also but that's all for now.

I am talking to my Dsil about something for next summer as she missed doing a 40th birthday trip this year and I missed mine 2 years ago so it's only fair that we should go somewhere together don't you think? I would even take a trip back to florida with her but hey plan large right!! :love:

Tnkrbelle565

10-08-2009, 02:33 PM

My Lord...that ending was a like a bad horror movie...what do you see????? I hope he's asleep. 3 times in one day would start making him think that this behavior could continue AFTER vacation :lmao:

I do have to back up how badly I feel about the whole Spa thing. I would be ready to kill him I think! ;)

What is up with the couple at the next table???? They take notes to compare them with who???? :confused3:confused3:confused3

You didn't get creme brulee???? That makes me sad ;)

tinkermamaof2

10-08-2009, 05:11 PM

The cliffhangers are killing me...but you are really motoring through this report...good for you....your husband and his "pit stops"...reminds me of my husband, sometimes it drives me crazy! I'm hoping you see an amazing birthday surprise of some sort that doesn't invlolve your husbands physique! After all wouldn't that make it a present for him as well!

Patti

lisalonglash

10-08-2009, 05:28 PM

Happydog

10-10-2009, 12:35 PM

What a great update! I love the dinner at Le Cellier, and the comments about the DIS Pros... yeah I feel that way too!! LOL!!! I am rather sheepish about taking food porn pics! BUT I really enjoy reading and looking at pics from others!!!

Can't wait to hear what happens next :rolleyes:

Diamondintheruff

10-10-2009, 01:12 PM

***Out of Order Picture Alert***

Sorry folks, I was able to salvage a few more pictures and I wanted to share one with you even though it belongs back a few chapters.

Here is Dh and I with our Grey goose slushies.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/050_50.jpg

***Next Trip Update***

Since I'm off topic anyway I thought I would report on our upcoming trip that's like in 6 days!

If you recall I had upgraded Dh and I from POP to Coronado Springs but it is a secret!

Then the other day I showed him a picture of the Hippy Dippy Pool.

"That's it?"

"I guess staying at a deluxe last time has affected your expectations."

"If you can believe it, I was even thinking we should go back to AKL again."

I just smile.

"What are you smiling about?"

"I just think it's funny you're turning into a Disney snob that's all."

But of course you know that wasn't really all. I was thinking he was going to be pretty excited by our surprise resort change.

I was hoping the credit card statement wouldn't arrive until after we left to give my secret away. Acutally I was hoping that the upgrade was going to be on the next bill. Well I was not so lucky. The upgrade fee is the last item on my bill. Go figure. It just squeaked through.

Dh opened the bill and went on a small rant about how Disney is costing too much even though we are staying in a Value.

I held my tongue but I was tempted to tell him.

I think he's going to be pleased.

I hope he's going to be pleased.

Just in case you are wondering I am not putting our luggage on magic express so Dh will not see the name of the resort on our tags.

***On with the Report***

In my last chapter I left off with a cliffhanger. Not really a big surprise I know. We had been to dinner at le cellier (FYI in French they don’t use capitals letters for their nouns like we do in English) and had returned to the room. I was expecting Dh to be awake and want to well… you know… but he surprised me by falling asleep instead. I tucked him in and soon was fast asleep beside him.
:cloud9:

Until the alarm woke us up at 7:00 am.
:scared1:

The plan was to check out before our breakfast. With the speed of a hurricane and the lungs of a sergeant I had us showered, dressed, packed and arrived at the luggage service desk by 7:40am. This meant that we were even earlier for our ADR for 7:50.

It was at...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/1e508326.jpg

So what does Dh do in those newly found moments?
:confused3

Now, get your minds out of the gutters readers.
:laughing:

We were in a public place and a family friendly public place at that.

Dh decided to take a bio break. After all he hadn’t visited these restrooms yet.
:sad2:

We were called to our table before he returned. The place was practically empty and I’m not sure why they even made us wait.

I ordered the juice mixture and a coffee. The coffee was lovely. I still prefer the pressed pot at Kona but I wouldn’t turn my nose up at the BOMA blend.

The juice was too guavaish for my liking. I’m not a fan of guava. At least I think that was the taste I disliked. Anyhow, I disliked it. But I got a second cup of coffee.

Here I am with my coffee.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/47bea9d3.jpg

The restaurant was lovely to look at and the food was great. Keep in mind I am not an adventurous eater. Remember I even ordered my steak well-done at le cellier last night.

Here is my attempt to take a picture of surroundings.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/bd6014bf.jpg

So I stuck to the basic food choices. I took pictures but they died with my last computer. Sigh.

I particularly love breakfasts. Dh was more adventurous and sampled many new things. Some he liked, some he didn’t but he finds enjoyment in the possibility of new foods. I can't seem to get past the possibility that I won’t like them. It’s not wonder my children are incredibly picker eaters. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree and apparently they are plucked from my orchard more so than his.

However, I don’t remember any apples in this meal and of course the children were at home with their grandparents so I shall try to stay on task.

We were super quick eating. After all there was hardly anyone there and since it was a buffet there was no waiting to be served.

Okay so I was super quick. Dh would have returned for a few more courses to get all his money's worth out of Disney that he could but we had a rope drop to get too. After all we had switched our spa day to an extra day at the parks. MGM to be precise.

“It’s about time we headed for the bus stop.”

“Yeah okay but first just let me try some of that thing over there.”

“Okay but hurry up.”

Dh goes up for a refill. I pick at what is left on my plate and try not to worry about the time.

“We really have to get going now.”

“Can I just…”

“No. You’ve had three plates full. I think you’ve eaten your money’s worth. Let’s go.”

“Let me just grab a piece of fruit for the road.”

While he’s going for the fruit he puts some sort of muffin thing in a napkin. Lucky me gets to hold it in my park bag while he starts eating his banana.

“I’ve just got to go to the bathroom before we leave.”

“Are you kidding me? Didn’t you just go?”

“I’ll be quick. Just hold my banana.”

I start to crack up.

"Here in public?"

"What?"

"You do realize what you just said don't you?"

And finally it dawned on him too and he burst out laughing as well.

Even in my pissed off state the humour in that statement got through to me. We both had to sit down for safety reasons.

We spend a few minutes expanding on the banana jokes.

:banana::banana::banana:

Finally we were able to compose ourselves and it was off to Disney Studios (Opps I first wrote MGM and had to erase it) for us.

You'll never guess which ride we non-thrill ride seekers do first. Click here to find out. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33939916&postcount=333

Diamondintheruff

10-10-2009, 01:33 PM

Well I have already done the whole european tour thing and really just want to do Italy now, well..... maybe Greece also but that's all for now.

I am talking to my Dsil about something for next summer as she missed doing a 40th birthday trip this year and I missed mine 2 years ago so it's only fair that we should go somewhere together don't you think? I would even take a trip back to florida with her but hey plan large right!! :love:

I loved Greece. Cindy DD8 has been watching Momma Mia lately and has been asking to go.

I'm sure it wouldn't be too much of a hardship if your Dsil choose Florida.

My Lord...that ending was a like a bad horror movie...what do you see????? I hope he's asleep. 3 times in one day would start making him think that this behavior could continue AFTER vacation :lmao:

I do have to back up how badly I feel about the whole Spa thing. I would be ready to kill him I think! ;)

What is up with the couple at the next table???? They take notes to compare them with who???? :confused3:confused3:confused3

You didn't get creme brulee???? That makes me sad ;)

I'm surprised even myself that I didn't get creme brulee. It was very late. The restaurant was closing and I think I might have felt bad about keeping the servers later. Plus I was honestly full. Not sure why I didn't think about taking it to go.

I think the people at the next table were keeping notes to compare with themselves. I don't know.

I can't tell you how much Dh is looking forward to this weekend's vacation and it has nothing whatsoever to do with anything Disney. I think I may have set a vacation precident.

The cliffhangers are killing me...but you are really motoring through this report...good for you....your husband and his "pit stops"...reminds me of my husband, sometimes it drives me crazy! I'm hoping you see an amazing birthday surprise of some sort that doesn't invlolve your husbands physique! After all wouldn't that make it a present for him as well!

Patti

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I'm trying to get it done before this weekend. Of course there are a lot of things I'm trying to get done before this weekend.

Your food pictures are awesome! I won't tell Grumpy that you ordered your steak well-done :rolleyes1:rotfl:

I've never seen pretzel bread here either. So, why is pretzel bread considered Canadian? :confused3 LOL

My guess is you saw a sleeping randy dh :lmao:

I used to order my steak burnt so I have come down a notch.

Still have no idea about the pretzel bread. But it's good. It's just not necessarily canadian.

It's Tinkerbelle565 who sees the sleeping Randy. That's her husband's name!:rotfl:

What a great update! I love the dinner at Le Cellier, and the comments about the DIS Pros... yeah I feel that way too!! LOL!!! I am rather sheepish about taking food porn pics! BUT I really enjoy reading and looking at pics from others!!!

Can't wait to hear what happens next :rolleyes:

I'm glad I stood up to my fear (cause really it's not like I ever saw or heard from anyone that was sitting around me) and took the pictures. It's silly to feel silly about it. But I did.

eandesmom

10-10-2009, 01:59 PM

[B]

Since I'm off topic anyway I thought I would report on our upcoming trip that's like in 6 days!

If you recall I had upgraded Dh and I from POP to Coronado Springs but it is a secret!

Then the other day I showed him a picture of the Hippy Dippy Pool.

"That's it?"

"I guess staying at a deluxe last time has affected your expectations."

"If you can believe it, I was even thinking we should go back to AKL again."

I was hoping the credit card statement wouldn't arrive until after we left to give my secret away. Acutally I was hoping that the upgrade was going to be on the next bill. Well I was not so lucky. The upgrade fee is the last item on my bill. Go figure. It just squeaked through.

Dh opened the bill and went on a small rant about how Disney is costing too much even though we are staying in a Value.

I'm betting he will be pleased!

“I’ll be quick. Just hold my banana.”

I start to crack up.

"Here in public?"

"What?"

"You do realize what you just said don't you?"

And finally it dawned on him too and he burst out laughing as well.

Even in my pissed off state the humour in that statement got through to me. We both had to sit down for safety reasons.

We spend a few minutes expanding on the banana jokes.

:banana::banana::banana:

:rotfl2:

Tnkrbelle565

10-10-2009, 03:54 PM

Hope you are spending the next 6 days really resting up!!!

Charleston Princess

10-10-2009, 10:39 PM

Six days!!! Wow that snuck up quickly! I do hope DH loves CSR -- it's a fun resort!

Oh, how I :lovestruc Boma's pressed coffee (I have to flip flop with you and say I prefer it over Kona's ;)) and all its breakfast offerings. Mmmm! I salivate just thinking about it!

I am going to guess you braved Tower of Terror!

DearDaisyinDurham

10-11-2009, 10:41 AM

Happy Thanksgiving!
Departure Day comes too quickly...but love that you had Boma to yourselves & you're off to rope drop!We've never done that at the Studios.

Diamondintheruff

10-13-2009, 08:02 PM

Since this trip is all about my 40th birthday I thought I would show you how we celebrated Dh's 40th last month. Yes, for those of you doing the math I married a younger man. But only by a few months.

Dh wanted to have all our family and friends over for a pig roast. We rented jumpy castles and set up a big tent. The weather held and a fun time was had by all. All but the pig that it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/fcc49b39.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/2b77946a.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/a8d945e1.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/63184e9d.jpg

Back to the Report.
__________________________________________________ __

Once we composed ourselves and disposed of the banana we headed to the bus stop.

Luck was following us because once again a bus magically appeared. We did have to walk all the way to the actual bus stop before we saw a bus rounding the corner with “Disney Studios” lit up.

It was 8:40 am when we made it to the studios.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/053_53.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/7ba8f01e.jpg

The plan today was to go straight to TSM, do a couple of other rides and get the Jedi robe for our DS6. If Dh had it his way we would have headed to the robes first. Yeah like there is a ton of people parading down to the star wars store to buy merchandise. Like they are going to run out or something. He didn't see the humour in this. I guess I was tired because I did. Or maybe I was just rolling over the funnies from the banana incident at Boma.

The lineups at the turnstiles were pretty long. However, they only had a few open.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/054_54.jpg

I left Dh in line to go up to the front to grab a times guide. Just as I did that a new turnstile line opened up.

Yay! :yay:

I signaled for Dh to join me and I was the 12th person to get through.

“Boy all your disboards friends would be pretty proud of you right now”

I checked to make sure Dh was being serious. Cause sometimes he bugs me about the disboards. He doesn’t quite get why I continue posting on the boards or even why I’m writing trip reports. But he seemed to be serious which meant that even he understood what great time we were making.

In case I hadn’t mentioned it we were making the dash for Toy Story Mania. I was going to get us fastpasses and go on the ride first thing.

We pushed our way up to the front of the street.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/d2285160.jpg

On the right side so we would be closer to TSM. We were about 5 people deep. The show started. A couple from Brazil was chosen. It was kind of cute but didn’t have the same full body happy bubbling Disney feeling that the MK show leaves you with.

Behind me I noticed a couple from our Keys to the Kingdom tour. We chatted a bit. They are retired and down with their family. They were leaving today but wanted to hit the Rock and Roll coaster and have their final counter service first. They joked that the three for four deal actually cost them more money because they upgraded to AKL (although we didn’t see them). They were sweet and we wished them well as we parted at the shows ending.

With no strollers or grandparents to slow us down Dh and I managed to get right behind the rope drop people. See them there in the front of my picture. I was so psyched to be that close to the front of the line.:cool1:

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/055_55.jpg

I was second in line to get a fast pass for the ride. Our return time was 9:40am.

With the fast pass in hand off we went onto the ride.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/056_56.jpg

I went for accuracy and tried to hit only the high numbers while Dh was just going for it. He beat me but at least my accuracy was higher than his.

I wrote down that we went on the Great Movie Ride next. But I think it was the back stage tour. I’m getting them mixed up. It’s the one where they show you the submarine sequence and then the truck on fire. We had waited in line for it as a family before but gave up because the line just seemed way too long. I kind of wish we had just skipped it again today. It just seems really dated. Here's some pictures from it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/3965aea5.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/ed9e1ee4.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/057_57.jpg

The best part was walking through the prop area. I could have taken more time in there.

Then we went to One Man’s Dream. We didn’t stay for the movie. Dh was itching to get to Star tours. Remember we still had to buy that Jedi robe. The robe was the whole reason we were even in the park today. He wanted to go straight there but I convinced him we needed to do the Toy Story Mania fast pass thing first.

We saw the Jedi Training going on when we walked into Star Tours.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/5c599902.jpg

It was really the only time I missed my kids. Thinking about how my DS6 would have enjoyed it (of course he already has enjoyed it. Twice even!) got me a little misty eyed.

Then walking through the queue and remembering our last trip when due to rain the training was cancelled so we rode the ride and literally ran into Darth Vader in the lineup. Even I was a bit spooked by his presence. Anyhow the memory didn’t help the mist disappear.

I’m glad to hear they are updating this ride too. I look forward to seeing the improvements.

Finally in the shop at the end of Star Tours we picked up the Jedi Robe for DS6. We also got him a Storm Trouper T-shirt. He actually wears the T-shirt but as I mention not the robe.

Here is the one time he wore the robe.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/061_61.jpg

My neck was hurting from the ride and I was tired. We had an ADR at Downtown Disney. I wanted to just take a Taxi Cab. Even thinking about having to transfer buses at a resort thing was making me tired.

I also wanted a snack. But Dh wanted to save our snack credits. Why I’m not sure.

Then again why I didn’t just say you take the bus and I’m taking a Taxi I don’t know. I should have. I was grumpy. No snack does that to you.

Here I am by the Mermaid fountain. Ariel is my favorite princess and we didn't have time to go to her show so the fountain would have to do.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/7aba9fe9.jpg

We made our way down towards the turnstiles. Of course I had to stop for photopass pictures on the way out.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/a267d29b.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/e315f5a9.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/2f2841e8.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/8a5edafe.jpg

We got this one for our DS6 who loves stitch.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/Photopass%202009/cb21be5f.jpg

Once we got to the bus stops I wasn't actually sure what the best route was to get to downtown disney. Okay that's not true. I knew the BEST route was to take a taxi. However, Dh still wasn't having it. It brought back horrible memories of our Seaworld disaster from the year before. I wanted to just take a taxi but I had mentioned the bus system to Dh. So we took the bus. For various reasons it took 2 hours. So brutal. Anyway all that anger started to reheat inside of me.

I wasn’t sure which resort we should switch at. Dh asked a CM and they suggested CBR or POP. A POP bus was just pulling up so we took it.

It felt kind of funny to drive into POP. We were supposed to stay there this trip before I upgraded us to AKL. (Actually we were supposed to stay there for this upcoming trip this weekend until I upgraded us once again. But remember Shh as the upgrade is a surprise to Dh). It looked nice and I figured I would have enjoyed it. Although waiting in the open air bus stop at POP made me remember how much I enjoyed the covered bus stops at the moderates and Deluxes pretty gosh darn quick. It was hot.

Finally a bus came. Now I hadn’t paid too much attention to the transportation to and around Downtown Disney and I made a mistake. I know shocking as it may seem.

My mistake and my last chapter is coming up next click here. http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33955438&postcount=338

Diamondintheruff

10-13-2009, 08:13 PM

I'm betting he will be pleased!

Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Hope you are spending the next 6 days really resting up!!!

Nope.

Sad to report that Dh's father (who has been ill for quite some time) passed away last week so with the preparations of the funeral and then last week being the Canadian Thanksgiving we've been extremely busy.

Six days!!! Wow that snuck up quickly! I do hope DH loves CSR -- it's a fun resort!

Oh, how I :lovestruc Boma's pressed coffee (I have to flip flop with you and say I prefer it over Kona's ;)) and all its breakfast offerings. Mmmm! I salivate just thinking about it!

I am going to guess you braved Tower of Terror!

I'm afraid you are wrong about the TOT. But hopefully correct about Dh enjoying CSR. He could sure use a little TLC right now. So this vacation couldn't have come at a better time.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Departure Day comes too quickly...but love that you had Boma to yourselves & you're off to rope drop!We've never done that at the Studios.

Boma really was empty.

IMO the rope drop show wasn't all that. But getting to TSM early was!

Charleston Princess

10-13-2009, 09:27 PM

Diamondintheruff

10-14-2009, 06:56 AM

The party for DH's 40th looks like a lot of fun! Did you make the cake? It looks delicious!

Yeay for riding TSM and getting the Jedi robe -- DS looks great in it -- too bad it didn't get more use!

You saw Darth Vader in line for Star Tours on a previous trip??? You are so lucky! I would have been in seventh heaven! :laughing: (Yes, I am waving my Star Wars geek flag right now. :thumbsup2)

The cake was delicious but I can't take credit for it. I bought it. There were a ton of piggy cupcakes too but I forgot to take their picture before they were devoured.

We rode TSM twice. But Dh beat me both times. :upsidedow

It was both cool and scary to run into Vader. He is quite an imposing character. Even the hair on the back of my neck stood up.

Charleston Princess

10-14-2009, 11:26 AM

It was both cool and scary to run into Vader. He is quite an imposing character. Even the hair on the back of my neck stood up.

That's funny! When I was little, I was terrified of Vader, but in 2008 we were at DHS for Star Wars Weekends, and I insisted on getting my picture made with him! :laughing:

Diamondintheruff

10-15-2009, 12:05 AM

Since I'm leaving tomorrow and I'd really like to get this done before I take off on another Disney adventure I'm going to try and finish it tonight.

It might not be my best piece of writing but at least it will be completed.

My last update had Dh and I on our way to Downtown Disney. We had a reservation at Wolfgang Pucks for lunch. The restaurant not the counter service. We hopped on a bus to POP and switched to a bus going to Downtown disney.

I mentioned that I made a mistake. Well, on our last family trip we always took the boats to Downtown Disney. So I knew how to get to the west side by boat. I forgot that the bus stops there too. So I made us get off at the main stop by all the stores and then take the boat over to the west side when I could have just stayed on the boat and gotten off at the next stop. Oh well.

So we ran from the bus stop to the boat dock, got on the boat then ran into the restaurant. Did I mention we were a bit late?

We were the only ones on the boat and had a lovely conversation with the boat driver. He had worked for Disney for 32 years. Only driven the boats for the last year. He says the boat operator jobs are hard to get. He started out in the restaurants although he drove the monorails for 17 years. Dh asked him loads of questions as he knows I am pushing to come down and work for Disney when I retire.

But back to the restaurant.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/30c04e24.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/96b9f5a3.jpg

Have to say I was not a big fan of the decor. Kind of reminds me of the 80"s but not in a good way. Plus it needs a little fixing up. There was paint chipping and the upolstry was dirty. Just my opinion though.

We got the worst table. It was right by the kitchen door.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/7a5d3375.jpg

However, the food and the service were wonderful. As I'm writing this I'm wondering why I didn't book us in there again for this upcoming trip?

The bread they served was super yummy. Can't get the picture to stay turned. Sorry.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/6689e0fd.jpg

I had the butternut squash soup. Even better than the one I had at the wave.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/5ac7bc29.jpg

Dh had the springs rolls. He said he enjoyed them but he didn't rave about them.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/abb5c31f.jpg

Then I had some sort of pumpkin ravioli. I will rave about this for a moment. Truth be known, I am a squash loving kind of girl but this melody of pasta and gourd was delightful. Very light. Not too spicy. This would be a wonderful dish on a cold winter's night. In case I didn't mention it. I loved it.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/bf0482fc.jpg

Dh had some sort of pasta dish. Sorry I meant to look it up but I got lazy. Again he said he liked it but not raving. I think the deluxe plan had spoiled him.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/9cd80c55.jpg

We took our desert to go. I can't remember what it was. Other than the fact that mine was chocolate.

We left the restaurant in search of Goofy's candy store. But as I wanted to take a look at the hot air balloon ride (It had just opened and someone had asked me to take some pictures of it) I noticed this candy store.

I just love the name and look at the door handle. Soo cute.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/56739b9c.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/32846ca2.jpg

(I'm not sure why photobucket won't save this turned around. I did try to turn it for you but I gave up. Sorry once again!)

I noticed they sold chocolate covered pretzel rods. They said I could use my snack credits but they don't make them there. I have to choose from the selection they had in stock.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/9068815e.jpg

It looked like a good enough selection to me. I had heard of the long waits at Goofy's and there was no one in the store so I jumped at the chance to get out of here quick. I ordered two snack credits of pretzels (that is a total of 6 rods) and three mickey shaped rice krispie treats. I ate the pretzels before I could get a picture but here are the rice krispies.

Dh and made our way back to AKL. We had checked out but I left bathing suits in our carry on bags so we hung out at the pool for an hour or so eating our deserts before it was time to take ME back to the airport.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/73f2e000.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/eabf39c1.jpg

At the airport we picked up Mickey D's for dinner which was such a disappointment after being on the deluxe dining plan all trip.

I did some last minute shopping at earports and bought a pair of white crystal mickey head earrings for myself and tink earrings for my DD8 (Cindy).

Before we knew it was time for our plane to board and we arrived safely home on time. I called home to check on the kids before we left the airport to find out that one had a fever and another had just thrown up. Boy was I ever looking forward to coming home now.

After our three plus hour drive from the buffalo airport we rolled into our driveway around 2am. We were zonked.

It felt like the moment I shut my eyes the alarm went off and suddenly kids were jumping all over our bed.

"What did you bring us Mommy?"

"Did you and Daddy have a good time?"

"I missed you Mommy!"

I left all their goodies on the breakfast table and as soon as they heard that they were off in a flash. Everyone was glad to see their presents but I think my parents were the most glad to see us. They looked really tired.

Well, that's the end of my report. Thanks for reading and allowing me to share it with you. I hope you learned from my mistakes, had a good laugh, sympathized with me and maybe even found out something new or interesting about WDW.

For the most part I had a great time with Dh. There were times I wanted to strangle him but then again, it's that way in everyday life with the man so why would I think Disney would be any different?

The best part of the trip was NOT feeling guilty about leaving the kids and escaping to spend some time alone with Dh. I know we could do that anywhere but when the opportunity to go back to WDW again for this upcoming weekend opened up I jumped at it.

This trip I am not doing quite as much touring. We are planning to hang out at the resort a bit more. At least that is what I have promised Dh. We're still doing some new things like MNSSHP and the food and wine festival. I'm looking forward to both of these.

This trip couldn't have come at a better time. Dh could use some TLC and some time away. His father passed away last week from cancer. He suffered for many years and when the end finally came we can take some comfort in knowing that his pain is gone. It is a terrible thing to watch someone you love fade away to the pain like that.

I'll leave you with a parting photo. I took this one on the plane ride home. While not a Disney photo it does capture a certain feeling of peace and yet a oneness with the world. A good parting shot I figure since all will be one with the world once again for tomorrow I leave for Disney!

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/diamondintheruf/2009/disney%202009/11b57b2a.jpg

eandesmom

10-15-2009, 01:18 AM

I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL, I am sure it was hard on all of you.

That ravioli looks divine!

Have a great trip!!!!!

Tnkrbelle565

10-15-2009, 08:36 AM

So sorry about your FIL. :hug: I actually skipped the updates to wish you good travels. Going back to read later on!

Tiggerrn2

10-15-2009, 09:29 AM

Sorry for your loss.
Have a great weekend. Maybe we'll catch you at the airport! Thanks for the report. Looking forward to the next one.:woohoo:

Charleston Princess

10-15-2009, 07:36 PM

I am very sorry to hear about your DH's father. :hug:

Sounds like you had a wonderful last few hours at Disney, and I hope you are thoroughly enjoying your trip right now!

I wonder if you bought the same pair of Mickey earrings that I did? :laughing:

akayek31

10-16-2009, 01:54 PM

Sorry to hear about your loss. But I know you are gone now so I hope you have a wonderful trip :)

stacopp

10-16-2009, 06:56 PM

I am sorry to hear about your FIL, I understand how hard it is to watch someone in so much pain for so long. Here's hoping you have a fantastic time at WDW and looking forward to another very witty TR.

purplepeg

10-18-2009, 06:02 PM

Sorry to hear about Dh's dad. Hope you have a great time in Disney. Can't wait to hear all about it!

Nancy for Disney

10-20-2009, 06:10 PM

Enjoyed you final installments of your tr. Looks like it was a great trip. Can't wait to hear about the next. You must either continue this one or do another.

Very sorry to hear about your FIL. I hope this trip helps to take DH's mind off things and you find time for some r&r.

Happydog

10-20-2009, 09:09 PM

I really enjoyed reading your TR!!! And I can't wait to hear how you enjoy MNSSHP and the F & W ... really liked all of your photos and musings along the way. A great ending to a nice TR!!! I hope you have a wonderful time! :goodvibes

DearDaisyinDurham

10-21-2009, 11:33 PM

:grouphug:Dear Diamond, so sorry for your family's loss. :grouphug:

Enjoyed this TR as I always enjoy your TR's :thumbsup2 just a little hint ;) that I hope you write another (feel a bit silly asking when I never finished my last one :rolleyes1 but you're a much better writer than I am) ... I will be waiting & hoping :surfweb: now that you're safely home. Can't wait to hear how it was!! I know you had a wonderful time and I hope you loved CSR.

Lady Lallie

10-22-2009, 11:24 AM

I'm so sorry about your FIL. :hug:

lazydoxy66

10-25-2009, 04:52 AM

Hello Diamond!!!

I'm sorry I didn't get to keep up with you on this TR. Sept was a bad month. I'm just now getting caught up on all the TRs.

I'm sorry to hear about your FIL. Even when you know they are at peace after such a tough battle, it doen't make it any easier to let go.

I always love reading about your adventures. I think you had a good trip with your DH. Everyone gets a bit un-nerved at times. All of your pictures are wonderful. The PhotoPass pics were very nice as well.

I hope this last trip was a good one for you also. If you do a TR for it let us know.

BTW, I am now going to WDW at the beginning of Dec. I think Ms. Daisy and I will just miss each other.

Diamondintheruff

10-25-2009, 08:35 AM

Hello all!

Dh and I arrived home safe and sound on the 19th. We've been bombarded with work and family commitments so I haven't had a chance to get online and respond until now.

I probably will do another report although I warn you I just don't have as much material. Dh was really easy going and positive this trip. Therefore I don't have as much funny material as I did for my birthday trip. Not sure why the change but I'll take it. So give me a bit more time to catch my breath here on the homefront and I'll tell you all about it.

Thanks for following along,

Diamond

I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL, I am sure it was hard on all of you.

That ravioli looks divine!

Have a great trip!!!!!

Thank you for your sympathies.

The ravioli was indeed divine and we did have a lovely trip!

So sorry about your FIL. :hug: I actually skipped the updates to wish you good travels. Going back to read later on!

Thanks for the hug and the good wishes!

Sorry for your loss.
Have a great weekend. Maybe we'll catch you at the airport! Thanks for the report. Looking forward to the next one.:woohoo:

We did have a great weekend. Too bad we didn't run into each other at the airport.

I am very sorry to hear about your DH's father. :hug:

Sounds like you had a wonderful last few hours at Disney, and I hope you are thoroughly enjoying your trip right now!

I wonder if you bought the same pair of Mickey earrings that I did? :laughing:

The earrings are white jeweled mickey heads. I really should have taken a picture of them. They are fairly small.

Sorry to hear about your loss. But I know you are gone now so I hope you have a wonderful trip :)

Thank you and we did have a wonderful trip.

I am sorry to hear about your FIL, I understand how hard it is to watch someone in so much pain for so long. Here's hoping you have a fantastic time at WDW and looking forward to another very witty TR.

It was awful watching him fade away like that.

We did have a fantastic time thank you.

Sorry to hear about Dh's dad. Hope you have a great time in Disney. Can't wait to hear all about it!

Thanks for the sympathies and we did have a great time. How could we not of?

Enjoyed you final installments of your tr. Looks like it was a great trip. Can't wait to hear about the next. You must either continue this one or do another.

Very sorry to hear about your FIL. I hope this trip helps to take DH's mind off things and you find time for some r&r.

I'm glad you enjoyed my TR. I do believe the trip came at a good time for Dh.

I really enjoyed reading your TR!!! And I can't wait to hear how you enjoy MNSSHP and the F & W ... really liked all of your photos and musings along the way. A great ending to a nice TR!!! I hope you have a wonderful time! :goodvibes

Thanks for all your wonderful compliments! We did indeed have a wonderful time.

:grouphug:Dear Diamond, so sorry for your family's loss. :grouphug:

Enjoyed this TR as I always enjoy your TR's :thumbsup2 just a little hint ;) that I hope you write another (feel a bit silly asking when I never finished my last one :rolleyes1 but you're a much better writer than I am) ... I will be waiting & hoping :surfweb: now that you're safely home. Can't wait to hear how it was!! I know you had a wonderful time and I hope you loved CSR.

I'll take those compliments and run with them. But for the record I did enjoy what writing you did complete of your TR. Give my regards to lucky man.

I'm so sorry about your FIL. :hug:

Thanks!

Hello Diamond!!!

I'm sorry I didn't get to keep up with you on this TR. Sept was a bad month. I'm just now getting caught up on all the TRs.

I'm sorry to hear about your FIL. Even when you know they are at peace after such a tough battle, it doen't make it any easier to let go.

I always love reading about your adventures. I think you had a good trip with your DH. Everyone gets a bit un-nerved at times. All of your pictures are wonderful. The PhotoPass pics were very nice as well.

I hope this last trip was a good one for you also. If you do a TR for it let us know.

BTW, I am now going to WDW at the beginning of Dec. I think Ms. Daisy and I will just miss each other.

Glad to hear from you again. Life is often busy and we all "dis" when we can. I understand that completely.

Wouldn't that be wonderful if you and Daisy could meet up. I've never done a dismeet before.

I haven't been great following up with the other site. Sorry for that.

Lady Lallie

10-25-2009, 08:47 AM

Can't wait to hear about your trip. Drama or not, I hope it was a good one! :goodvibes

chanti

10-25-2009, 09:17 AM

wow, a romantic disney trip!! YAY!!

I really enjoyed reading your trip report. :banana: Love how you are so detailed in your descriptions! Sounded like you two had a great time and some very familiar sounding 'discussions' :rotfl: I think that comes with the 'being married' territory;)

Charleston Princess

10-25-2009, 10:41 AM

:lmao: I know what you mean about the drama-free trip, but I hope you will still share it with us! :goodvibes

eandesmom

10-25-2009, 12:05 PM

Welcome back! How lovely to hear that you had a drama free trip and I hope you'll share it with us too :goodvibes

Looking forward to it.

GreatBiscuit

10-26-2009, 04:28 PM

I've been putting together a list of TR's being written by posters on my TR and lo and behold I realized I had missed yours. :scared1: On the one hand, I'm thrilled I can read the whole thing at once, but I'm sad I missed all the banter. I'll be checking it out tonight or tomorrow and I'll be at the front of the line for your TR from your most recent excursion.

Queenofallthings

10-26-2009, 07:41 PM

I am so sorry to hear about your FIL...my thoughts are with you.

So happy you had another wonderful trip to the world. Can't wait to hear about it...no matter what you have to write about, we want to read it!!!

GreatBiscuit

10-27-2009, 06:21 PM

(Okay wait for it because this is the word we all hear when we talk about going to Disney to non-Disney obsessed people.) “AGAIN?” Been there, heard that. Along with “why would a grown up want to go there?”

I hadn’t promised that “us” wouldn’t go again. I said “We”. That my friend if one fine piece of DIS fuzzy logic.

“Again? You want to go to Disney again?” my Mom asked. Seeing a trend.

The man likes to eat well so it wasn’t a hard sell. Oh, me and DH would get along FAMOUSLY! My WDW war cry was “Break out the big boy britches cause I’m getting my buffet on!”

Around the 45 day mark when it was time to pay, I got an email from Christine. Some deluxe resorts were being offered at a discount. I could upgrade from POP if I so wished.

Once again a silly question. Of course I wished but I didn’t have the budget for it. Then I had an idea. I called my Mom.

She hadn’t decided what to get me for my birthday. So I suggested the upgrade. She agreed and Christine moved us on up from POP to the Animal Kingdom Lodge. I was super psyched.

Horray Momma intheruff. Wait..that doesn’t sound right. Horray Momma Diamond! WooHoo!

Anyhow we loved our time at the Disney Institute. It was like camp for adults. Each day we had three time periods that you could choose different activities to participate in. We went rock climbing, took cooking lessons, had wine tasting classes, massages, golf lessons and even went on a catered canoe picnic. I always wanted to do DI. The classes I had my heart set on were the photography class where you got to go to Epcot before it opened and do a private photo shoot around World Showcase, the videography class where you got to produce your own show, and the gourmet cooking class.

Here is a current picture of us.
:wave:

Enjoying it thus far, can't wait to finish catching up

GreatBiscuit

10-27-2009, 07:55 PM

Speaking of my trip, It's time for the reveal of the "Plan".Sweet music. I do SO love me a plan!

Tnkrbelle565

10-28-2009, 01:09 PM

Your DH behaved the whole trip?????? Well, that's it...I'm not reading along anymore ;) :lmao:

GreatBiscuit

10-29-2009, 06:38 PM

Well, I just finished the istallment concerning the tour. I gotta be honest and say that I'm having read thus far I have one regret....that I didn't find this thread sooner! Holy Biscuits this is an AWESOME TR! Your interactions with and observations of DH are just cracking me up. Some of them have an oddly familiar ring to them as well. :rolleyes1 Anywho, I can't wait to keep reading on!

GreatBiscuit

10-30-2009, 04:42 PM

Just finished the final chapter and I have to say, Well Done! I hope you write TR for your Oct trip soon. I'll be :surfweb: from the get go.

topdog

10-31-2009, 11:10 AM

I finally have time to caught up and read your entire TR in 2 days.

Sorry to hear about your FIL. I know exactly what your family is going through.

Your TR was hysterical. A little drama, a little *ahem" nap and more importantly...lot of fun, humor and lot of great memory. I am still deciding if I am going to wear a LGMH or not for our next trip. Afraid DW might wonder why are all these strangers came talking to me. LOL...

Anyway, I am sure your Holloween trip must be awesome. We've been wanted to see the MNSSHP but timing is just not right for us. I can't wait to read all about it.

We are still planning to try to do the Disney Cruise in 2011 from Vancouver, BC to Alaska. I even convince my niece to take their baby girl to go with the cruise. It's been a long time since I visit Canada. I've been dying to try the Chinese food there. Heard it is awesome. :thumbsup2

Diamondintheruff

11-03-2009, 10:36 PM

Okay y'all can get off my back I finally started my next trip report. You can read all about my incredibly well behaved adoring and eager to please Dh in... drum roll please...

A Precious Gem of a Weekend.

Link here or in my siggie. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2323431

Can't wait to hear about your trip. Drama or not, I hope it was a good one! :goodvibes

It was one of the nicest sweetest weekends Dh and I have ever spent together. EVER!

wow, a romantic disney trip!! YAY!!

I really enjoyed reading your trip report. :banana: Love how you are so detailed in your descriptions! Sounded like you two had a great time and some very familiar sounding 'discussions' :rotfl: I think that comes with the 'being married' territory;)

I agree. I have overheard (by accident of course LOL) other couples have identical conversations to Dh and I.

:lmao: I know what you mean about the drama-free trip, but I hope you will still share it with us! :goodvibes

A few people who will remain nameless (insert throat clearing noises here) have urged me to continue writing so I am. I wonder who they could be?

Welcome back! How lovely to hear that you had a drama free trip and I hope you'll share it with us too :goodvibes

Looking forward to it.

Enjoying your pre-trip report. Looking forward to seeing how it all plans out.

I've been putting together a list of TR's being written by posters on my TR and lo and behold I realized I had missed yours. :scared1: On the one hand, I'm thrilled I can read the whole thing at once, but I'm sad I missed all the banter. I'll be checking it out tonight or tomorrow and I'll be at the front of the line for your TR from your most recent excursion.

There was never anything to forgive. I stared at your report for months before I finally started reading it.

That being said I thank you for going through the whole thing and am thrilled you enjoyed it. I hold your trip writing skills in the highest regard.

Now you can be at the beginning of the line for the next one and I look forward to future bantering on that one.

I am so sorry to hear about your FIL...my thoughts are with you.

So happy you had another wonderful trip to the world. Can't wait to hear about it...no matter what you have to write about, we want to read it!!!

Thank you for your sympathies.

We did have a wonderful time.

I always wanted to do DI. The classes I had my heart set on were the photography class where you got to go to Epcot before it opened and do a private photo shoot around World Showcase, the videography class where you got to produce your own show, and the gourmet cooking class.

Didn't think anyone remembered the Disney Institute anymore. I loved it! I was sorry to hear they closed it.

Your DH behaved the whole trip?????? Well, that's it...I'm not reading along anymore ;) :lmao:

:rotfl2:

It took a lot of *ahem* napping but Dh was a really GOOD boy this trip.

Well, I just finished the istallment concerning the tour. I gotta be honest and say that I'm having read thus far I have one regret....that I didn't find this thread sooner! Holy Biscuits this is an AWESOME TR! Your interactions with and observations of DH are just cracking me up. Some of them have an oddly familiar ring to them as well. :rolleyes1 Anywho, I can't wait to keep reading on!

Thank you kindly!

Just finished the final chapter and I have to say, Well Done! I hope you write TR for your Oct trip soon. I'll be :surfweb: from the get go.

Well get a moving on down there cause it's finally up and running.

I finally have time to caught up and read your entire TR in 2 days.

Sorry to hear about your FIL. I know exactly what your family is going through.

Your TR was hysterical. A little drama, a little *ahem" nap and more importantly...lot of fun, humor and lot of great memory. I am still deciding if I am going to wear a LGMH or not for our next trip. Afraid DW might wonder why are all these strangers came talking to me. LOL...

Anyway, I am sure your Holloween trip must be awesome. We've been wanted to see the MNSSHP but timing is just not right for us. I can't wait to read all about it.

We are still planning to try to do the Disney Cruise in 2011 from Vancouver, BC to Alaska. I even convince my niece to take their baby girl to go with the cruise. It's been a long time since I visit Canada. I've been dying to try the Chinese food there. Heard it is awesome. :thumbsup2

There are not that many LGMH wearing people out there. Of course you are already so weighed down with your photographic equipment that you may strain under the extra weight (LOL).

Never done the Alaska cruise but have spent many a holiday in Vancouver and on the coast of Vancouver island. It is beautiful.