"Hello? I'm in the Carousel of Progress.."*UD1/13pg74"All Good Things...*

[mommytothreeboys]

Another great update!!!

Love the pic of Dan & Donald and that he went off on his own to do it.

Isaiah strikes me as the full of fun joker in your family from that Viking pic!

Cute pic of Jonah with his big old popsicle!

Beautiful tiara but a little too pricey for me, too! LOL @ it being "out of the royal budget!"

Glad the KP mission went well again!

You've totally got Isaiah pegged! He constantly cracks me up! And I'm thrilled that Dan still lets himself enjoy Disney, even at 14!

Great update Missy! Love that tiara!

Sounds like you didn't have the bird problem we usually have at the CS in Mexico! Ick.... (Although this last trip with just Shawn and I, the birds stayed far enough away from me that I wasn't grossed out).

Love the pictures with Donald and your teenager! How memorable!

Waiting to hear about Soarin....popcorn::

Sara

I remember reading about how you were worried about the birds there...the only birds we had were the little family of ducks. Good thing, because I hate birds and that would have ruined my YUMMY meal!



Hey!

I am really enjoying your TR - I'm only part way through but I SIMPLY had to remark on a picture you posted on your Ohana breakfast morning!

An ARMADILLO!!!!:scared1:

Flashback to 2006 - my first time at WDW - the very first day, in the car on the way to MK with DH, two daughters, parents in law and niece.

Still got jet-lag - I look out of the car window to see ...... an amadillo toddling up the side of the road!

'An amadillo!' I exclaimed. NOBODY BELIEVED ME! They thought I was delusional! (We don't get many armadillo's in Yorkshire:lmao:)

So now it's a bit of a family standing joke - how I 'imagined' the armadillo in WDW. Last year we went back to Florida and I looked in vain for another one to prove I was right - I had to console myself by buying a cuddly amadillo called Armand!

So, thank you for your picture! I showed it to my husband!

Enjoying reading all about your adventures with your boys! Fantastic!:thumbsup2

Hi MAMA!! That's a great story! :rotfl2: I'm glad I could provide you with some evidence! :thumbsup2

[orangecats2]

What a great day you guys are having at Epcot. The Mexico pavillion is one of my favorite places in all of WDW! I spent alot of time in the glass shop last year and finally found some cute earrings on sale that I had to buy. This year we have ADR's at San Angel and I don't even like Mexican! That is how much I love the atmosphere in there! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip.

[hhockman]

Great update Missy! Sorry it took me so long to get here. You have no idea how many times I clicked on the link only to be called away from the computer...finally got it read though.

I'm glad KP was a success. I'm really looking forward to it! Probably more than my kids are. Okay, definitely more than my kids are...since they don't even know we're GOING to Disney World and they have no idea what a KP mission is. ;) But still. I am looking forward to it.

I'm thinking I might have to work a Mexican CS into our trip. I have to look at the itenerary again. I just cancelled our San Angel ADR because I think most of my family wouldn't eat there, but if I remember right the CS has more, uh, normal stuff like tacos and burritos, doesn't it? Plus with CS we can do like you did and the people that don't like it can go somewhere else! :rotfl:

LOVE the pictures of Dan and Donald. I hope my boys still want to meet characters at 14!

NO idea what school bread is. Guess I must have missed those threads. I'm not surprised you weren't hungry though. Not surprised the boys WERE either! :lmao:

Great picture of Isaiah as a girl...I mean Viking! :thumbsup2

Looking forward to the rest of your afternoon (hope the trouble to get on Soarin' was worth it). :goodvibes

[mommytothreeboys]

What a great you guys are having at Epcot. The Mexico pavillion is one of my favorite places in all of WDW! I spent alot of time in the glass shop last year and finally found some cute earrings on sale that I had to buy. This year we have ADR's at San Angel and I don't even like Mexican! That is how much I love the atmosphere in there! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip.


HI and thanks for coming out of lurkdom to say hello! :welcome:

Jeff and I hope to go on a "mom and dad only" trip soon and San Angel is a place I would love to eat! It looks so beautiful.

Great update Missy! Sorry it took me so long to get here. You have no idea how many times I clicked on the link only to be called away from the computer...finally got it read though.

Life..UGH! ;)

I'm glad KP was a success. I'm really looking forward to it! Probably more than my kids are. Okay, definitely more than my kids are...since they don't even know we're GOING to Disney World and they have no idea what a KP mission is. ;) But still. I am looking forward to it.

LOL! You're killin' me! :rotfl:

I'm thinking I might have to work a Mexican CS into our trip. I have to look at the itenerary again. I just cancelled our San Angel ADR because I think most of my family wouldn't eat there, but if I remember right the CS has more, uh, normal stuff like tacos and burritos, doesn't it? Plus with CS we can do like you did and the people that don't like it can go somewhere else! :rotfl:

If I remember correctly, our combo platter was a taco, a burrito, and a quesadilla. And part of what I really enjoyed about the CS plan was the freedom to be able to eat in different places if we chose.

LOVE the pictures of Dan and Donald. I hope my boys still want to meet characters at 14!

Me too! :)

NO idea what school bread is. Guess I must have missed those threads. I'm not surprised you weren't hungry though. Not surprised the boys WERE either! :lmao:

I swear I'm not sure how I'm gonna keep feeding these boys!!

Great picture of Isaiah as a girl...I mean Viking! :thumbsup2

LOL! I love that pic! :)

Looking forward to the rest of your afternoon (hope the trouble to get on Soarin' was worth it). :goodvibes

Soarin' is such a great ride! That story is coming up!

[mousescrapper]

Ok now don't be mad....;)

I was reading my Hidden Secrets of WDW book yesterday while waiting in the car-line at school to get the kids and there was little tid-bit:

"It may be delicious when used as a flavoring in candy and other food products, but birds don't like methyl anthranlite, one of the components in Concord grapes. While the kiddies are happy chugging down the flavoring in a grape soda, birds won't go near the stuff, making it a safe, effective, tasty means of avian discouragement."

:rotfl:

I hope you like grape soda!

Scrappie

[mommytothreeboys]

Ok now don't be mad....;)

I was reading my Hidden Secrets of WDW book yesterday while waiting in the car-line at school to get the kids and there was little tid-bit:

"It may be delicious when used as a flavoring in candy and other food products, but birds don't like methyl anthranlite, one of the components in Concord grapes. While the kiddies are happy chugging down the flavoring in a grape soda, birds won't go near the stuff, making it a safe, effective, tasty means of avian discouragement."

:rotfl:

I hope you like grape soda!

Scrappie

I'm furious!!! :mad: LOL! Grape soda, huh? Well, I can handle grape soda on occasion, but I think I may just make it a habit to have a handful of Concord grapes with me at all times!! Thanks for the tip, Julie! ;)

[hhockman]

Ok now don't be mad....;)

I was reading my Hidden Secrets of WDW book yesterday while waiting in the car-line at school to get the kids and there was little tid-bit:

"It may be delicious when used as a flavoring in candy and other food products, but birds don't like methyl anthranlite, one of the components in Concord grapes. While the kiddies are happy chugging down the flavoring in a grape soda, birds won't go near the stuff, making it a safe, effective, tasty means of avian discouragement."

:rotfl:

I hope you like grape soda!

Scrappie

Okay, that is just :rotfl: and even more :lmao: is the fact that it made you think of Missy!

And, yes, Missy. I am laughing at your expense. Sorry (well, no, I'm not really). :rotfl2:

Now somebody tell me how THAT is a "hidden secret of WDW" (and you can laugh at MY expense) :confused:

[mommytothreeboys]

Okay, that is just :rotfl: and even more :lmao: is the fact that it made you think of Missy!

And, yes, Missy. I am laughing at your expense. Sorry (well, no, I'm not really). :rotfl2:

Now somebody tell me how THAT is a "hidden secret of WDW" (and you can laugh at MY expense) :confused:

You're not laughing AT me, you're laughing WITH me.....right, Heather!! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

[mamaboogie]

Hi!

I've recovered from the excitement of the armadillo and I'm all caught up! (The joys of being a teacher on school holidays!)

I've sooooo enjoyed reading about your escapades and can't wait to read some more! Although my heart lurches every time one of your boys loses something!:scared1:

[mickeystoontown]

Okay so ya'll go ahead and laugh at me all you want but somewhere I have missed something. What's this talk about birds and grape soda?:confused3

[mommytothreeboys]

Hi!

I've recovered from the excitement of the armadillo and I'm all caught up! (The joys of being a teacher on school holidays!)

I've sooooo enjoyed reading about your escapades and can't wait to read some more! Although my heart lurches every time one of your boys loses something!:scared1:


Yay for being caught up! :banana::banana:

I believe we are all done losing things...once I appeased the "god of all lost things" with my Tink watch we did pretty well holding on to our stuff!! ;)

[mommytothreeboys]

Okay so ya'll go ahead and laugh at me all you want but somewhere I have missed something. What's this talk about birds and grape soda?:confused3


Hi Lisa!! :wave:

I'm sure you are aware of my F.O.B. (FEAR OF BIRDS!!) Anyway...Julie was just sharing with me (go back a few posts) a great tip about how birds don't like the chemical in Concord grapes! LOL! So either I take stock in grape soda or I carry grapes wherever I go! :rotfl::rotfl:

Hope you're having a GREAT day after your less-than-great one yesterday!

[mickeystoontown]

Hi Lisa!! :wave:

I'm sure you are aware of my F.O.B. (FEAR OF BIRDS!!) Anyway...Julie was just sharing with me (go back a few posts) a great tip about how birds don't like the chemical in Concord grapes! LOL! So either I take stock in grape soda or I carry grapes wherever I go! :rotfl::rotfl:

Hope you're having a GREAT day after your less-than-great one yesterday!

I guess I missed or forgot the whole fear of birds phobia. Maybe you can find some grape scented body spray at Bath & Body Works. Spray that stuff all over you and you'd be good to go!:lmao:

About 4 or 5 years ago, maybe longer, we were eating outside at the Electric Umbrella (in Epcot). Hunter dropped a french fry on the table and was about to pick it up and eat it. (Boys will be boys and the 10 second rule still applied.:laughing:) Lacey grabs it off the table and puts her hand in the air with the french fry. A big black bird dive bombs her and grabs the french fry out of her hand. Lacey goes nuts and we start laughing hysterically.:lmao: I guess the bird spotted the fries in front of John because he flies back over and lands on John's shoulder. John starts trying to shoo him away but, of course, is laughing so hard it doesn't do much good. The bird is scrambling around trying to get a foothold on the back of the chair when I finally hit it with the tray and it flew off. Needless to say, the bird didn't come back.

So, the moral of the story is....either get some grape body spray or carry a food tray around with you. The birds are sure to stay away.;)

[mousescrapper]

I'm furious!!! :mad: LOL! Grape soda, huh? Well, I can handle grape soda on occasion, but I think I may just make it a habit to have a handful of Concord grapes with me at all times!! Thanks for the tip, Julie! ;)

You could make a necklace of them and wear them around your neck....;)


Okay, that is just :rotfl: and even more :lmao: is the fact that it made you think of Missy!

And, yes, Missy. I am laughing at your expense. Sorry (well, no, I'm not really). :rotfl2:

Now somebody tell me how THAT is a "hidden secret of WDW" (and you can laugh at MY expense) :confused:

Ok so in this book, every few pages or so the author inserts these little interesting facts and that was what the "birds don't like grapes" thing was...she just had talked about how there are deternets on the Effiel Tower to keep birds from landing on 'cause otherwise it would look all out of proportion....

sorry Missy :goodvibes

[mommytothreeboys]

I guess I missed or forgot the whole fear of birds phobia. Maybe you can find some grape scented body spray at Bath & Body Works. Spray that stuff all over you and you'd be good to go!:lmao:

Now THAT sounds like a GREAT idea!! :idea:

About 4 or 5 years ago, maybe longer, we were eating outside at the Electric Umbrella (in Epcot). Hunter dropped a french fry on the table and was about to pick it up and eat it. (Boys will be boys and the 10 second rule still applied.:laughing:) Lacey grabs it off the table and puts her hand in the air with the french fry. A big black bird dive bombs her and grabs the french fry out of her hand. Lacey goes nuts and we start laughing hysterically.:lmao: I guess the bird spotted the fries in front of John because he flies back over and lands on John's shoulder. John starts trying to shoo him away but, of course, is laughing so hard it doesn't do much good. The bird is scrambling around trying to get a foothold on the back of the chair when I finally hit it with the tray and it flew off. Needless to say, the bird didn't come back.

Oh my goodness...ON HIS SHOULDER!!??? :scared1::eek::scared1::eek: I would have been so busy freaking out that I would never have had the presence of mind to hit it with a tray! I would have been screaming like a little girl and running from the scene!


So, the moral of the story is....either get some grape body spray or carry a food tray around with you. The birds are sure to stay away.;)

I did Flights of Wonder this trip...but only because I love my family and they wanted to see it! Jeff sat with his arm around me the whole time. That whole "birds flying all over the theater" thing really freaks me out!

Just a thought...if I get grape body spray to keep the birds at bay...will the bugs find me even more tasty?? :confused:

[mommytothreeboys]

You could make a necklace of them and wear them around your neck....;)



With the crazy stuff that passes for fashion these days I just might be able to get away with that! :lmao::lmao:

[hhockman]

Is it weird that you guys are making me hungry with all this talk of lunches and grapes?

Hmmm...or maybe I was already hungry. ;)

[mommytothreeboys]

Is it weird that you guys are making me hungry with all this talk of lunches and grapes?

Hmmm...or maybe I was already hungry. ;)

Now that you mention it, I'm hungry too! I'm going to go see if there is anything left to eat in the house after the boys ate their lunch! ;)

[longing2Batdisney]

:lmao::rotfl2:
now it might explain why our parrot won''t eat grapes when we give it to her!
yes, we have a beautiful parrot (sorry Missy) best part is she likes me the best and I really have a fear of birds, dogs, don't care for cats:confused3 we had a small NOISY parrot finally got MIL to take back the noisy bird that screamed everytime I opened my mouth!:scared1:--my MIL has over 100 birds; needless to say I DO NOT GO IN HER GARAGE AVIARY!

about the bugs we use "Listerine" to keep the squitos away! here in LA

so you can maybe mix your GRAPE body spray w/a little Listerine and you should be go to go!!:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

ya'll have a great lunch!:wave2:

[mommytothreeboys]

:lmao::rotfl2:
now it might explain why our parrot won''t eat grapes when we give it to her!
yes, we have a beautiful parrot (sorry Missy) best part is she likes me the best and I really have a fear of birds, dogs, don't care for cats:confused3 we had a small NOISY parrot finally got MIL to take back the noisy bird that screamed everytime I opened my mouth!:scared1:--my MIL has over 100 birds; needless to say I DO NOT GO IN HER GARAGE AVIARY!

about the bugs we use "Listerine" to keep the squitos away! here in LA

so you can maybe mix your GRAPE body spray w/a little Listerine and you should be go to go!!:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

ya'll have a great lunch!:wave2:

Remind me not to visit your MIL! :scared1:

And it's gonna look awfully silly when I buy up all the listerine and grape soda at the grocery store! ;)

[KathyRN137]

Such great pictures, Missy! Fantastic shots of everyone!

Kathy

[orangecats2]

All this talk about birds, bugs, grapes and Listerine is making me :lmao:

[mommytothreeboys]

Such great pictures, Missy! Fantastic shots of everyone!

Kathy

Thanks Kathy! My boys are so used to me snapping pics all the time...they humor me! And in Isaiah's case...he encourages it!


All this talk about birds, bugs, grapes and Listerine is making me :lmao:

Oh yeah...we are an entertaining group all right! :lmao::lmao: Aren't you glad you came out of lurkdom?? :rotfl:

[Sunset Cliffs]

I have to ask...what is school bread? I had heard about the bakery in Norway and we went in there as well, but I've never heard of the school bread. Is it sweet? BTW, we loved our pastries from there too!

[mommytothreeboys]

I have to ask...what is school bread? I had heard about the bakery in Norway and we went in there as well, but I've never heard of the school bread. Is it sweet? BTW, we loved our pastries from there too!

Ok..someone else can chime in if I don't describe this right. School bread is a pastry that is filled with a sweet custard/pudding. It is covered in a sweet glaze and topped with coconut and another dollop of custard on top. Very delicious!

[hhockman]

Ok..someone else can chime in if I don't describe this right. School bread is a pastry that is filled with a sweet custard/pudding. It is covered in a sweet glaze and topped with coconut and another dollop of custard on top. Very delicious!

Okay, so what's the story behind why it's called "school bread"? Sorry...you know I always gotta know the back story. ;)

[orangecats2]

Oh yeah...we are an entertaining group all right! :lmao::lmao: Aren't you glad you came out of lurkdom?? :rotfl:[/QUOTE]


Do I have to answer that right away? :rolleyes1
I had the school bread last year and I was not impressed. Of course when I got back from my trip and got on the Dis people were saying it had changed and that it used to be better. So who knows? :confused3

[mommytothreeboys]

Okay, so what's the story behind why it's called "school bread"? Sorry...you know I always gotta know the back story. ;)

Ok..I've been looking and have yet to find anything that tells me WHY it's called school bread. All the descriptions of it seem to fit what I described though.

Oh yeah...we are an entertaining group all right! :lmao::lmao: Aren't you glad you came out of lurkdom?? :rotfl:


Do I have to answer that right away? :rolleyes1
I had the school bread last year and I was not impressed. Of course when I got back from my trip and got on the Dis people were saying it had changed and that it used to be better. So who knows? :confused3

LOL! No...you can defer that answer to a later time!

I liked the school bread...I don't think it was as AMAZING as I've heard it described here on the DIS though. It's possible that it has changed a bit...but all the recipes I see online look about like what I bought in Disney. Who knows...maybe some batches are better than others! :confused3

[mommytothreeboys]

For those of you keeping up, our “we don’t have a touring plan” plan for the day was to enjoy the WS until afternoon then head out to the resort to enjoy the pool for a few hours. Then we would make our way back to Epcot to eat in the WS and take advantage of Extra Magic Hours until midnight. :cool1: So....it’s now around 3:00 and we have done 2 KP missions (Norway and Mexico) and visited China, Norway, and Mexico. We also picked up Soarin’ FP’s on our way in so we are now headed out of the WS and back to FW to take a ride over beautiful California before boarding the bus for POR.

Just a pretty picture of SSE as we take our walk.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200952.jpg

We get to Soarin and enter the FP line. The posted wait time for stand-by was over an hour so we were glad to have picked up our fastpasses earlier! ::yes:: As we waited in line, we noticed that it was really taking a L-O-N-G time....longer than I’d ever waited in a FP line for any other attraction. We were standing trying to be patient when we heard an announcement that the FP side of the ride (I think they call them concourses?) was not functioning at all. DUH...no wonder we were waiting and waiting! :rolleyes: The decision had been made to empty the stand-by line and turn all of us FP holders around and send us to the other concourse. Those in the stand-by line were told that the ride was shutting down....bummer. :sad2: All of us FP people literally just did an about-face and headed the other way...it works because the lines are literally directly across from each other. Now that the stand-by line is empty they just start loading the ride with FP holders as fast as they possibly can. I know what you’re thinking....mainly because I was thinking it too. If the line does an “about face”, the people in what WAS the front of the line are now in the back. Yikes! Yeah..well this little fact did not go unnoticed by a woman who had the unfortunate luck to be in the “used-to-be” front. She went directly to the CM trying to make the best of a bad situation and UNLOADED on him about how unfair it was. The saddest thing is that she had her 10-12 year old daughter in tow. She kept insisting that there had to be another way...and God bless him...that CM just continued to calmly explain to her that they were doing their best to accommodate all riders as fast as they possibly could.

UGH!! Now..don’t get me wrong...it would stink to wait that long, just to now be in the back. But come on...when it all boils down, it’s a RIDE at a THEME park! Is it really worth all that?? :confused: (Don’t throw food at me...I know Disney is not just ANY theme park and Soarin’ is not just ANY attraction.) But really. If she was that upset, she could easily have gone to the CM at the FP entrance and I’m sure they would have given her FP’s to come back at another time. I really was disturbed at her behavior and that she was setting such a poor example for her daughter. There is a time and a place to complain, know what I mean? :mic:

ANY-who......we eventually got to see the always funny Patrick Warburton who kindly reminded us to stow our Mickey ears and we boarded our hang-glider. I LOVE THIS RIDE! It never gets old to me...I love the beach scene where I can almost touch my toes in the Pacific Ocean, I love the airplanes and the way they shake the glider, I love flying over Disneyland and being IN the fireworks! Such a great attraction! :banana: And well deserved after all the DRAMA!! :rolleyes1

That accomplished we made our way to the bus stop to head back to POR for a little pool time. (I have no idea how long we were actually in that line, but my next pic at the pool at POR is time stamped at 5:21 and we headed to FW at 3:20...you can do the math!)

Once we jumped into our suits it was time to hit the pool! :woohoo: One of our goals on this trip was to spend more time at the resort enjoying the amenities. Last trip we had only visited the main pool one time. Such a shame...it’s a great pool! This time we were ready to just hang out and enjoy our pool time! I got something fruity and delicious from the pool bar, Jeff got a beer :drinking1, and we pulled up our lounge chairs to watch the boys play!

Some pics from our late afternoon pool adventures!

Jonah doing a cannonball!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200955.jpg

And Jeff following right behind!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200956.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200958.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200953.jpg

Not my favorite picture, but I was too relaxed to care at that point!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200959.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200954.jpg

Isaiah is pretty relaxed as well!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200957.jpg


When we were all sufficiently water-logged, we headed to the room to change our clothes. We took the long way back and wandered through some parts of the resort we had not seen before. We scoped out some buildings we might like to stay in and really just enjoyed our little walk. :goodvibes

A pretty shot of Riverside Mill on our scenic walk back to the room.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200960.jpg

It was about 7:00 by the time we were back at the room. We showered, watched some TV, snacked a little to hold us till dinner and changed our clothes to get ready to head back to Epcot for some more WS fun! Our plan was to go straight to Morocco to get dinner to go at Tangierine café for Jeff and I then head to the UK to get fish and chips for the boys. We were not planning to see Illuminations this night, so we hoped to find seats in the UK where we could eat before continuing our WS journey in Canada.

According to my timestamp, we arrived back at Epcot around 8:10 to this beautiful view!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200961.jpg

Up next....our first PM EMH at Epcot! :woohoo:

[longing2Batdisney]

Wonderful update! Missy
glad ya'll were able to get on Soarin' and enjoy the pool! if it is warm enough to enjoy a pool (I know they heat them) we will certainly try! the rain kept us out this past time.:sad:
looking forward to your next installment
your shots of epcot are great!

[Angies1274]

Another great update as usual, Missy!!:thumbsup2

Wow!! What drama on Soarin'!! I totally agree--there is a time and place to complain but, hey things happen. I feel bad for the poor daughter that had to witness her mother behaving that way.:sad2:

Ahhh...the more I ride Soarin' the more I love it!!:lovestruc Flying through the fireworks is my favorite part!!

It looks like you had a very relaxing time at the pool!!!:goodvibes

Can't wait to hear about your EMH at Epcot. That last picture is just beautiful.:cloud9:

[mousescrapper]

so you can maybe mix your GRAPE body spray w/a little Listerine and you should be go to go!!:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:



I was just cracking up out load at this one...:lmao:


Wow Missy, the Soarin line disater sounded very UGH- Annoying....but very glad you DID get to ride and the grumy lady guest should have just been happy w/ that, it's not like she stood in line for nothing at all...like the stand-by people...kwim.

We had a FP line issue like that w/ TSM sorta, but it worked out. :thumbsup2

Glad you got your ride in and had a wonderful early evening swim...

looking forward to hearing about the EPCOT EMH...I have only done evening, EMH's at DHS and MK...

we most likely will be getting hoppers for the '10 trip, so we may just test the waters for a few of these and then PH back or from a quieter park. :thumbsup2

J-

[Planning fanatic mom]

Wonderful Update! Love the pics.:lovestruc

Soarin' is the most relaxing ride. We always save it, like you did, for later in the day. (With FP, of course) I've always thought they could film a new one starting in Maine and coming down the East Coast ending in WDW.

POR is so beautiful. You made me miss it all over again.

I, too, have never done EMH at Epcot. Can't wait to hear.popcorn::

[mommytothreeboys]

Wonderful update! Missy
glad ya'll were able to get on Soarin' and enjoy the pool! if it is warm enough to enjoy a pool (I know they heat them) we will certainly try! the rain kept us out this past time.:sad:
looking forward to your next installment
your shots of epcot are great!

That stinks that the rain kept you out of the pool. We'll keep our fingers crossed for better weather on your next trip!

Another great update as usual, Missy!!:thumbsup2

Wow!! What drama on Soarin'!! I totally agree--there is a time and place to complain but, hey things happen. I feel bad for the poor daughter that had to witness her mother behaving that way.:sad2:

I really did too. I understand that it costs a lot of money to go on vacation at Disney...and it wasn't the greatest situation...but it would have been a great opportunity to teach the girl a lesson in patience and gratitude (that she's even at Disney to begin with). Being UGLY rarely helps a situation! :confused3

Ahhh...the more I ride Soarin' the more I love it!!:lovestruc Flying through the fireworks is my favorite part!!

My favorite is the fighter jets! :thumbsup2

It looks like you had a very relaxing time at the pool!!!:goodvibes

:cloud9: We really did :cloud9:

Can't wait to hear about your EMH at Epcot. That last picture is just beautiful.:cloud9:

Thanks Angie!

I was just cracking up out load at this one...:lmao:

Right there with ya! :lmao::lmao::lmao:


Wow Missy, the Soarin line disater sounded very UGH- Annoying....but very glad you DID get to ride and the grumy lady guest should have just been happy w/ that, it's not like she stood in line for nothing at all...like the stand-by people...kwim.

My thoughts exactly. A little perspective would have been a good thing!

We had a FP line issue like that w/ TSM sorta, but it worked out. :thumbsup2

Glad you got your ride in and had a wonderful early evening swim...

looking forward to hearing about the EPCOT EMH...I have only done evening, EMH's at DHS and MK...

This was our first late EMH..the only other evening EMH we had done was on our 2007 trip at AK.

we most likely will be getting hoppers for the '10 trip, so we may just test the waters for a few of these and then PH back or from a quieter park. :thumbsup2

J-

As the kids get older it's easier to stay up later! :thumbsup2

Wonderful Update! Love the pics.:lovestruc

Soarin' is the most relaxing ride. We always save it, like you did, for later in the day. (With FP, of course) I've always thought they could film a new one starting in Maine and coming down the East Coast ending in WDW.

POR is so beautiful. You made me miss it all over again.

I, too, have never done EMH at Epcot. Can't wait to hear.popcorn::

I think a new version of Soarin' on the East Coast would be fantastic!

I miss POR too! :sad1:

[hhockman]

Great update Missy! :love: your pictures...especially the ones of POR...where I will be...in 12 days!!! :cool1::woohoo::yay:

I want to get in more pool time on this trip too. I don't think I've "scheduled" a bunch during the day (mostly it's at night so it will probably be at the quiet pools), but there are a few "open" places that I hope to get the boys to the big pool. Will just learned to swim this summer and LOVES the pool. Christian, not so much (he can't swim yet), but he's okay if he has a "floaty thing", also known as a life vest, on (watch for the pictures on that...if the resort doesn't have life jackets available when we are there, Christian will be in a PURPLE one. We were borrowing a great one from his old preschool teacher, but it apparently got lost at White Water and all I could find when I went looking was a purple speedo vest, unless I want to order it online and pay a lot...which I didn't since I've been told there are vests at both the resort and waterparks. But at night, in the quiet pool, those will probably not be available. Christian has already tried it on and never said anything about the purple. So I won't either. :rolleyes1)

I'm sorry about the drama on Soarin', but there really isn't any excuse for anyone to act like that. If there was someone who should be upset, it's the person who was finally in the front of the STANDBY line that didn't get to ride at all. I'm mean really. You're right, it's a shame. Glad you enjoyed it though. I love Soarin'!

Looking forward to the rest of your night at EPCOT. :goodvibes

[praisehisname]

Looking forward to hearing about your evening in Epcot! I love the fountains at night!

Denise

[KathyRN137]

Ahh, resort (slash) pool time! :cloud9:

Took me about three trips before I learned the value of it! Epcot looks gorgeous at night, can't wait to hear about your evening!


Kathy

p.s. Brave woman to post a bathing suit pic of yourself!!
.

[DisMomAmy]

Two great updates Missy!!

I think I'll have to get myself a tiara to wear on our next trip. I think every girl deserves one, but especially moms of all boys. :goodvibes (I think I'll get the discount version though...)

Sorry about the Soarin' drama... it's unfortunate when adults don't act like adults... but I guess we all have our moments. Soarin' is awesome no matter what you have to go through to ride. :thumbsup2

The pool pictures are great too - thanks for posting your picture - I think it's a nice picture of you.

Looking forward to more.

[ladybugmom]

Hi Missy!! I'm all caught up! I'm so glad ya'll got to ride Soarin'--it was my FAVORITE ride in all of WDW!! I can't wait to go back and ride it again!! Can't wait to read more!!

[Sunset Cliffs]

I always forget how great Soarin' is. Then we go on it and I am so happy. It really is a wonderful ride. So unique! And pool time is the best. It sounds like it was a great afternoon for all of you.

[mickeystoontown]

Don't you feel sorry for that poor daughter who had to stand there and watch her mother pitch a fit to an innocent Disney castmember. What a great example she is setting.......NOT! We once had a lady and her child refuse to move down the row at Mickey's PhilarMagic. After announcing several times that she needed to move down, she still didn't and security came and escorted her and her child out of the building. Like you said.....it's just an attraction in a theme park.

Love the fact that you guys spent some down time at the resort pool. We did that some this year too. We have already decided that we are going to spend at least one full day at the resort next year.

Hope you have a wonderful Labor Day!

[cjackearl]

Ugh to the Soarin' escapade. Luckily there was the beauty and majesty that is Soarin at the end of it to take the bad taste of drama out of your mouth.

Love the pool pictures. The boys, big and little, doing their cannonballs and the lounging pic of you! I think its a super cute picture.:thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

Great update Missy! :love: your pictures...especially the ones of POR...where I will be...in 12 days!!! :cool1::woohoo::yay:

Even less now!! I so wish I could stow away and go with you!!

I want to get in more pool time on this trip too. I don't think I've "scheduled" a bunch during the day (mostly it's at night so it will probably be at the quiet pools), but there are a few "open" places that I hope to get the boys to the big pool. Will just learned to swim this summer and LOVES the pool. Christian, not so much (he can't swim yet), but he's okay if he has a "floaty thing", also known as a life vest, on (watch for the pictures on that...if the resort doesn't have life jackets available when we are there, Christian will be in a PURPLE one. We were borrowing a great one from his old preschool teacher, but it apparently got lost at White Water and all I could find when I went looking was a purple speedo vest, unless I want to order it online and pay a lot...which I didn't since I've been told there are vests at both the resort and waterparks. But at night, in the quiet pool, those will probably not be available. Christian has already tried it on and never said anything about the purple. So I won't either. :rolleyes1)

LOL! I'll keep my eyes open for the purple vest! Definitely make time for the pool. My boys loved the quiet pools at night after a long park day.

I'm sorry about the drama on Soarin', but there really isn't any excuse for anyone to act like that. If there was someone who should be upset, it's the person who was finally in the front of the STANDBY line that didn't get to ride at all. I'm mean really. You're right, it's a shame. Glad you enjoyed it though. I love Soarin'!

I guess some people just thrive on the drama...just a shame that it spilled over on everyone around her. UGH! But Soarin' cured my drama blues!

Looking forward to the rest of your night at EPCOT. :goodvibes

Thanks for sticking with me! I hope to get an update posted today, but don't hold me to that one!

Looking forward to hearing about your evening in Epcot! I love the fountains at night!

Denise

Epcot at night really is breathtaking. Glad you chimed in and said Hello! :wave:

Ahh, resort (slash) pool time! :cloud9:

Took me about three trips before I learned the value of it! Epcot looks gorgeous at night, can't wait to hear about your evening!


Kathy

Pool time is worth making time for! Sometimes just an hour in the pool can make all the difference!

p.s. Brave woman to post a bathing suit pic of yourself!!
.

It was a halfway decent pic, so I figured I'd grin and bear it. There have definitely been worse that are in no way post-worthy! :scared1:

Two great updates Missy!!

I think I'll have to get myself a tiara to wear on our next trip. I think every girl deserves one, but especially moms of all boys. :goodvibes (I think I'll get the discount version though...)

I totally agree! princess:

Sorry about the Soarin' drama... it's unfortunate when adults don't act like adults... but I guess we all have our moments. Soarin' is awesome no matter what you have to go through to ride. :thumbsup2

It's true we all have our moments. I'm sure I've had some not so pretty ones myself. :rolleyes:

The pool pictures are great too - thanks for posting your picture - I think it's a nice picture of you.

Looking forward to more.

Thanks for the compliment. You're sweet! :goodvibes

Hi Missy!! I'm all caught up! I'm so glad ya'll got to ride Soarin'--it was my FAVORITE ride in all of WDW!! I can't wait to go back and ride it again!! Can't wait to read more!!

Hi Becky! Welcome back! :yay:

I always forget how great Soarin' is. Then we go on it and I am so happy. It really is a wonderful ride. So unique! And pool time is the best. It sounds like it was a great afternoon for all of you.

It really was just what we needed! I knew we'd have a long night ahead of us and the pool time was perfect!

Don't you feel sorry for that poor daughter who had to stand there and watch her mother pitch a fit to an innocent Disney castmember. What a great example she is setting.......NOT! We once had a lady and her child refuse to move down the row at Mickey's PhilarMagic. After announcing several times that she needed to move down, she still didn't and security came and escorted her and her child out of the building. Like you said.....it's just an attraction in a theme park.

UGH!! Some people just need some perspective. :rolleyes1

Love the fact that you guys spent some down time at the resort pool. We did that some this year too. We have already decided that we are going to spend at least one full day at the resort next year.

We did one no-park day this year and it was fantastic...the resorts are so full of great things to do!

Hope you have a wonderful Labor Day!

Thanks we did...hope yours was great as well!

Ugh to the Soarin' escapade. Luckily there was the beauty and majesty that is Soarin at the end of it to take the bad taste of drama out of your mouth.

Love the pool pictures. The boys, big and little, doing their cannonballs and the lounging pic of you! I think its a super cute picture.:thumbsup2

Why thank you ma'am! ;)

[mommytothreeboys]

My kids started school yesterday and I just wanted to share a couple of pics. I can't believe I have a child in HIGH SCHOOL! UGH! :eek:

I hope to have an update ready to post later today. My readers are the best! Hope you all had a great Labor Day weekend. :thumbsup2

My High School freshman!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool2009.jpg

Isaiah ready for the first day of 7th Grade.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool20096.jpg

Oh look...they do love each other!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool20095.jpg

My big 3rd grader.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool20097.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool20098.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool20099.jpg

There's nothing sweeter than the sight of the big yellow bus at the end of a long, busy summer!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FirstDayofSchool200910.jpg

[mom2mek]

First off....love the pictures of your boys going back to school! So cute! I have one in 3rd grade this year as well.....pains my heart to think about it! :sad1: Growing up is hard on moms!! I hope they have a great school year!

Secondly, love the update! :goodvibes I can understand the lady's frustration with the line situation, but she should have just grumbled to her own self and left it at that! She was not setting a good example for her child, that's for sure! Such a shame....:rolleyes:

The pool looks like a lot of fun! Love the cannonball pics! :laughing:

Looking forward to hearing all about the EMH at Epcot! popcorn::

Sara

[Angies1274]

Great pictures of the boys going back to school, Missy!!:goodvibes

Ahh...love the one of Isaiah and Jonah hugging!! Brotherly Love.;)Hmm... I know you need to capture those moments when you can because they don't come around very often as they are getting older. (at least at my house, anyway :laughing:)

My boys started school last Thursday. I now have a 1st and 4th grader. Where does the time go??:confused3

So true about your last picture!! :rotfl:

[ladybugmom]

Awww! Love the back-to-school pics!! Time does fly!! I still can't believe that Ally started Kindergarten this year!! :sad1:

[MagicShell]

I enjoyed your update. The Soarin' situation doesn't sound like it would be fun for anyone. I am glad you all got to ride it though. It sounds like you all were having a FULL day, I don't think I could make it until midnight after the day you've had. I will be waiting to see how your late evening goes.

[Tnkrbelle565]

I'm joining in late but I'm coming along for the ride. i just read your entire TR so far! Great report. I can't believe all the luck your family has with finding lost items!!!

[cjackearl]

What a handsome bunch of boys.:goodvibes Mine went back on Tuesday and it wasn't a day too soon!:rotfl:

[longing2Batdisney]

how fun! back to school!!! :yay: and you have joined the High schoolers club! my baby is a SR. :sad: & :yay: all at the same time....I'm sure I will take it hard will Ashton goes to Kindergarten. when do your kids get out that they start soooo late in the year....our poor kids have to go back a slight bit earlier every year! Soon they will be starting in July at this rate :lmao:

great smiles and pictures!!! wonderful memories...

[mommytothreeboys]

First off....love the pictures of your boys going back to school! So cute! I have one in 3rd grade this year as well.....pains my heart to think about it! :sad1: Growing up is hard on moms!! I hope they have a great school year!

It really is tough on us moms! My BABY is in 3rd grade. :sad1:

Secondly, love the update! :goodvibes I can understand the lady's frustration with the line situation, but she should have just grumbled to her own self and left it at that! She was not setting a good example for her child, that's for sure! Such a shame....:rolleyes:

I agree...it was definitely a bad situation, but her reaction was over the top. (Jeff says I didn't do it justice when I wrote about it!) Like you said...keep it to yourself, or go complain to the appropriate people at the appropriate time.

The pool looks like a lot of fun! Love the cannonball pics! :laughing:

I do too...I love that I caught them mid-air!

Looking forward to hearing all about the EMH at Epcot! popcorn::

Sara

Soon I hope!

Great pictures of the boys going back to school, Missy!!:goodvibes

Ahh...love the one of Isaiah and Jonah hugging!! Brotherly Love.;)Hmm... I know you need to capture those moments when you can because they don't come around very often as they are getting older. (at least at my house, anyway :laughing:)

I hear ya!

My boys started school last Thursday. I now have a 1st and 4th grader. Where does the time go??:confused3

So true about your last picture!! :rotfl:

I'm not really sure where the time goes, but it seems to be going there FASTER and FASTER every year! ;)

Awww! Love the back-to-school pics!! Time does fly!! I still can't believe that Ally started Kindergarten this year!! :sad1:

I remember when Dan started Kindergarten...it FLIES by! Enjoy being able to dress her up and pick her clothes and hold her hand.....it won't last forever. :sad1:

I enjoyed your update. The Soarin' situation doesn't sound like it would be fun for anyone. I am glad you all got to ride it though. It sounds like you all were having a FULL day, I don't think I could make it until midnight after the day you've had. I will be waiting to see how your late evening goes.

LOL! We're pretty tough...we definitely scheduled in more down time this trip, but we really like to go, go, go! :banana:

I'm joining in late but I'm coming along for the ride. i just read your entire TR so far! Great report. I can't believe all the luck your family has with finding lost items!!!

:welcome: I'm glad you joined in!

What a handsome bunch of boys.:goodvibes Mine went back on Tuesday and it wasn't a day too soon!:rotfl:

I know how that feels! And thanks for the compliment on the boys..I think they're pretty handsome too! :hug:

how fun! back to school!!! :yay: and you have joined the High schoolers club! my baby is a SR. :sad: & :yay: all at the same time....I'm sure I will take it hard will Ashton goes to Kindergarten. when do your kids get out that they start soooo late in the year....our poor kids have to go back a slight bit earlier every year! Soon they will be starting in July at this rate :lmao:

great smiles and pictures!!! wonderful memories...

The boys did not get out of school until June 24th. They always go until the end of June and start the week of Labor Day.

The first day of school pictures are a tradition...Dan will just have to suck it up and play along for a few more years! :)

[Incredimom3]

Missy, Thanks for the update. We leave in one week for our trip. I can't wait. It's so hard to think of anything else....and there's so much to think about. Our oldest started high school this year, too. My girls are in 5th, 7th and 9th grade, but we homeschool so things are a little different. Still, it felt strange to send Katie off to the Youth building at church. It seems just yesterday that she was a preschooler. Tomorrow, my middle daughter will be 13! My sweet girls are growing up, but they still enjoy having fun with their family. I'm so thankful! I hope your boys have a wonderful year in school. And, thank you for the great report. You've added to my anticipation. I can hardly wait to dip my toes into the pool on Ole' Man Island...

[mommytothreeboys]

Pardon the brief interruption in this TR. I got a new computer!!!! :banana:
Jeff is still working on transferring all my pics, etc from the old, piece-o-junk computer so I need to wait until everything is all set up.

Thanks for your continued patience!! :grouphug:

[mommytothreeboys]

Missy, Thanks for the update. We leave in one week for our trip. I can't wait. It's so hard to think of anything else....and there's so much to think about. Our oldest started high school this year, too. My girls are in 5th, 7th and 9th grade, but we homeschool so things are a little different. Still, it felt strange to send Katie off to the Youth building at church. It seems just yesterday that she was a preschooler. Tomorrow, my middle daughter will be 13! My sweet girls are growing up, but they still enjoy having fun with their family. I'm so thankful! I hope your boys have a wonderful year in school. And, thank you for the great report. You've added to my anticipation. I can hardly wait to dip my toes into the pool on Ole' Man Island...


Wow...homeschooling 3 almost teenagers! You go MOM!

Are you uber-excited for your trip? You'll have to write a TR so we can all live through you!

Happy TEENAGER to your middle daughter! :banana:

[cjackearl]

A new computer!!:cool1:Congratulations Missy. We'll be patient.:goodvibes

[DisMomAmy]

Great back to school pictures Missy!! Ah yes... the bus! :banana: I've been driving them in so far this year but Zachary thinks he wants to try the bus... we'll see - drop off hasn't been going very well, with the exception of the last two days.

Congrats on the new computer!! :cool1: I'll be here when you are ready!

[mousescrapper]

The boys look great going back to school and love the pic of you and Jonah :goodvibes and I spy a Mickey shirt...

[littlezar]

Hope the boys have a great school year! My oldest 3 are in the same grades as yours. I knew they were all around the same age, but wasn't sure on the grades. My freshman loves the high school and the only thing that he's a little concerned about is that his Spanish teacher said the little bit of English she spoke on the first day (going over expectations, supplies, etc) is the most English they'll hear her speak all year! It's his 2nd year taking Spanish so I'm sure he'll be ok!

[mickeystoontown]

Hey Missy! Great pictures of the boys starting school. I always have to take a "first day of school" picture. It's a tradition.

Congrats on getting a new computer.......and it's not even Christmas!

[Incredimom3]

Wow...homeschooling 3 almost teenagers! You go MOM!

Are you uber-excited for your trip? You'll have to write a TR so we can all live through you!

Happy TEENAGER to your middle daughter! :banana:

We are absolutely thrilled to be going back. :banana:Thanks for the birthday congratulations! My husband came up with the most wonderful birthday party idea we've ever had. Last night, we took my daughter and 5 of her closest friends to the mall. We gave them each $20 and let them shop! :goodvibes I wish someone would do that for me... She was so happy. I'm not writing a trip report, but my DD14 just started a PTR called Our Incredible Family Vacation on the Trip Report board. She'd welcome readers. It took us 6 days to learn how to post a picture, but we finally did it! :laughing:

[hhockman]

Love the Back to School pictures Missy. We participate in that tradition too. This was my very first year where my boys started on the same day. It was weird. Christian almost didn't start the same day as Will. He was supposed to start two weeks later, but then we switched him from his old preschool to the state PreK and we very luckily got a spot and he started the same day as Will...August 4th. I can't even imagine Christian going to 3rd grade...and I don't want to! Thankfully I have a few more years. :)

:cool1: on the new computer. That's awesome. Can't wait to see more pictures.

Incredimom3, maybe I'll see you. We are apparently leaving on the same day and going to the same place. We leave Friday. My boys are 4 and 7 though, so our kids are just slightly different. LOL

Looking forward to EMH at EPCOT (we're planning to do it too)!

[Mommy2BnB]

Jumping in to say I'm enjoying your trip report and can't wait to read more!

[mommytothreeboys]

A new computer!!:cool1:Congratulations Missy. We'll be patient.:goodvibes

So sweet! Thanks Christine! :goodvibes

Great back to school pictures Missy!! Ah yes... the bus! :banana: I've been driving them in so far this year but Zachary thinks he wants to try the bus... we'll see - drop off hasn't been going very well, with the exception of the last two days.

Congrats on the new computer!! :cool1: I'll be here when you are ready!

I have a love/hate relationship with the bus! I love that it is so convenient, but if there is trouble to be had, it will be on the bus! Hope things are going better for Zach. :)

The boys look great going back to school and love the pic of you and Jonah :goodvibes and I spy a Mickey shirt...

Oohh...you are good! I am wearing a Mickey shirt! :thumbsup2

Hope the boys have a great school year! My oldest 3 are in the same grades as yours. I knew they were all around the same age, but wasn't sure on the grades. My freshman loves the high school and the only thing that he's a little concerned about is that his Spanish teacher said the little bit of English she spoke on the first day (going over expectations, supplies, etc) is the most English they'll hear her speak all year! It's his 2nd year taking Spanish so I'm sure he'll be ok!

Dan is in his 2nd year of Spanish as well. So far he is enjoying high school....I just can't believe I have a HS freshman!

Hey Missy! Great pictures of the boys starting school. I always have to take a "first day of school" picture. It's a tradition.

Congrats on getting a new computer.......and it's not even Christmas!

I love tradition! I will have a first day of school pic for each boy for every year of school...that will make a great scrapbook!

My old computer was so bad that I was afraid it was going to die and I'd lose all of our info/data/pictures etc. It kept shutting down, freezing ALL the time....BAD news. Although I hated to spend the money on a new one, it had to be done. Now that I have it, I LOVE IT!! :lovestruc

We are absolutely thrilled to be going back. :banana:Thanks for the birthday congratulations! My husband came up with the most wonderful birthday party idea we've ever had. Last night, we took my daughter and 5 of her closest friends to the mall. We gave them each $20 and let them shop! :goodvibes I wish someone would do that for me... She was so happy. I'm not writing a trip report, but my DD14 just started a PTR called Our Incredible Family Vacation on the Trip Report board. She'd welcome readers. It took us 6 days to learn how to post a picture, but we finally did it! :laughing:

That is a fantastic idea for a party! Good thinkin' DH!

I'll have to pop over and read your daughter's TR. Cool that she's writing it! :)

Love the Back to School pictures Missy. We participate in that tradition too. This was my very first year where my boys started on the same day. It was weird. Christian almost didn't start the same day as Will. He was supposed to start two weeks later, but then we switched him from his old preschool to the state PreK and we very luckily got a spot and he started the same day as Will...August 4th. I can't even imagine Christian going to 3rd grade...and I don't want to! Thankfully I have a few more years. :)

:cool1: on the new computer. That's awesome. Can't wait to see more pictures.

Incredimom3, maybe I'll see you. We are apparently leaving on the same day and going to the same place. We leave Friday. My boys are 4 and 7 though, so our kids are just slightly different. LOL

Looking forward to EMH at EPCOT (we're planning to do it too)!

Epcot EMH coming right up!

Jumping in to say I'm enjoying your trip report and can't wait to read more!

Hi and :welcome:

[mommytothreeboys]

I was SO excited for late EMH at Epcot! :yay: We had only done one evening EMH on our last trip and that was at AK which closes early anyway, so this would be our first “late night” at Disney. And at our very favorite park…so exciting!

We arrived back at Epcot from our afternoon at the pool around 8:00 pm. Our first order of business was to head to Morocco to get dinner to go for Jeff and I. People were beginning to find spots for Illuminations as we made our way through the WS. We planned to watch it another night, so we made a beeline to Morocco and got in line for our food. Tangierine Café is one of my favorite CS places in all of Disney! :thumbsup2 Jeff got the chicken and lamb platter and I got the chicken platter. We both got baklava for dessert…YUMMM! We grabbed our plates, juggled our drinks and desserts, and began to make our way to the UK for fish fry for the boys. My receipt from the Yorkshire Fish Shop says we got our food at 9:10pm. The nice thing about eating during Illuminations is that the food stands are EMPTY and we were able to grab a nice table on the sidewalk outside of the Rose and Crown Pub. We sat down to enjoy our late dinner to the sounds of Illuminations in the background! The boys loved their fish and chips…the one complaint was that the choices of dessert at the fish shop are VERY limited. They got packaged shortbread cookies which they were not all that impressed with. Jeff and I thoroughly enjoyed our food from the Tangierine Café…as usual!

We stayed at our table as Illuminations finished and waited for the crowd heading out of the WS to go by us. As the crowds began to thin, we made our way to the first stop of the night….Canada! Now, some background….my oldest son LOVES Canada and all things Canadian. I can’t really explain it, but he always has. Kinda strange, but we live only an hour and a half from the border so at least if he decides to live there someday, he’ll be close!

All my pictures for this installment were taken at night..the quality is not the greatest, but Epcot at night is really beautiful and I’m glad I got to take these.

The boys in front of the Bambi topiary.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200986.jpg

Once in Canada, we had to take this one!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200985.jpg

We wanted to see the O Canada movie so we headed in to see when we could catch the next show. We waited about 10 minutes and then they ushered us into the 360 theater. Martin Short is a hoot! :lmao: Canada is a beautiful country…we only see the eastern part of the country living where we do, so it was cool to see the different provinces. I’m glad we took the time to check out the movie!

Next stop…back to the UK to explore! We hit the little toy shop, browsed the Beatles memorabilia (Jeff is a big Beatles fan) and of course took this picture!
[http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200984-1.jpg

The little street bathed in the streetlights.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200983-1.jpg

My favorite…Earl Grey!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200982-1.jpg

As we head out of the UK and over the bridge, we entered France. We went into the gift shop in the back so Jonah could get his “charm” for his mask.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200981.jpg

Not much was open here so we sat and took these pictures in front of the beautiful fountain.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200978.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200979.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200980.jpg

I just want to mention here that late EMH at Epcot is so nice! At least in the WS the crowds were non-existent. We strolled from country to country, explored the shops, talked to the CM’s. The one thing we missed by doing the WS at night was seeing characters, but we had another full day and ½ at Epcot so we knew we’d have more opportunities.

The next stop on our late night tour was MOROCCO! This is our favorite pavilion in the World Showcase. I love all the detail in the streets and the shops. I took LOTS of pictures here so bear with me!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200975.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200973.jpg

We decided on this trip that it was necessary to pass the fez tradition down to the next generation! For those of you who did not read my PTR, a bit of history. Jeff and I went to WDW on our honeymoon and fell in love with the WS and Morocco especially. I have a silly pic of Jeff making a funny face wearing a fez in the gift shop. :laughing: In 2007 when we returned, I have a similar picture of myself. Now it was the boys’ turn…..here are all three pics for your enjoyment!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/image4-3-20091-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/fez-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200972.jpg

Jeff was able to strike up a lengthy conversation with the CM who was manning the Kidcot station in this shop.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200970.jpg

I LOVE how detailed these shops are!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200971.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200969-1.jpg

And this room is gorgeous with all the tiling.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200974-1.jpg

(continued in next post)

[mommytothreeboys]

Still in Morocco! ;)

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200968.jpg

One with and one without flash. (Sorry…liked them both!)
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200977-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200976-1.jpg

Sadly, we left Morocco and headed in the direction of Japan. We wanted to take some time to look around the toy museum, so that’s where we went first.

I love that you can see Jonah’s reflection in the glass in this picture!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200967-1.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200966-1.jpg

It was now about 11:15 and most of the gift shops were closing, so we exited Japan and decided to go to the American pavilion and try to catch the final showing of the American Adventure. By now the WS was virtually empty except for a few of us diehards! :rolleyes: We did not see the American Adventure show on our last trip, but I had heard good things about it and figured it would be a good way to end the long day. We entered the building and sat for about 10 minutes before the CM led us up the escalators and into the theater.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200965.jpg

We had our pick of seats and the CM made jokes about moving to the end of the aisle! LOL! :rotfl: The show was fantastic! :thumbsup2 Both of the older boys enjoyed it, but poor Jonah was just too tired out and ended up sleeping through most of the show.

It was very close to midnight as we walked toward the front entrance of Epcot…going through an empty Italy, Germany, China, Norway and Mexico on the way. One thing I noticed with the lack of crowds and distractions was how the background music changed as you walked from one country to the next. SO cool! It’s one of those little things that makes Disney awesome! :worship:

These aren’t great, but I wanted to post a pic or two of a completely empty WS.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200964.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200963-1.jpg

I took this next picture at 12:04 am. Good-bye Epcot! We’ll return tomorrow! (Or later today as the case may be!) ;)

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/FridayEpcot--Disney200962-1.jpg

[Tnkrbelle565]

OOOH...I would love to do WS at night!!! DD just isn't quite old enough to handle the EMHs though :(

[mom2mek]

Great updates Missy! :thumbsup2 Those fez pictures had me totally laughing out loud - how crazy is it that your oldest looks so much like your hubby! :laughing: Love the Taz fashion that he is rocking! :rotfl2: So funny!

WS for EMH sounds really beautiful! It is such a beautiful part of the park anyway, but at night it is simply gorgeous!

Sara

[cjackearl]

Ahh, Epcot at night.:cloud9: Meandering through the WS, checking out all of the movies and details that are easy to miss when crowds are in the way. Great way to end the day!

How funny that your family did the same thing ours did for CS in the WS. Mom and Dad-Tangeriene Cafe Kids-Yorkshire County, although we also had a Japanese meal thrown in there. Eating around the World sure is fun!

Oh my, the fez pictures!:rotfl: Your DH looks like he's Dan's age in that first picture! How cute that you've got the matching photos through the years. I love those traditions.

[mommytothreeboys]

OOOH...I would love to do WS at night!!! DD just isn't quite old enough to handle the EMHs though :(

Someday! :goodvibes

Great updates Missy! :thumbsup2 Those fez pictures had me totally laughing out loud - how crazy is it that your oldest looks so much like your hubby! :laughing: Love the Taz fashion that he is rocking! :rotfl2: So funny!

Yeah...he was wearing some crazy outfit...goofball! Glad you enjoyed the pictures....they make me laugh to this day!

WS for EMH sounds really beautiful! It is such a beautiful part of the park anyway, but at night it is simply gorgeous!

Sara

All the little villages and courtyards all lit up was really breathtaking. I'm so glad we chose to do WS at night.

Ahh, Epcot at night.:cloud9: Meandering through the WS, checking out all of the movies and details that are easy to miss when crowds are in the way. Great way to end the day!

I agree....we always feel rushed through WS and we didn't this time! It was so nice!

How funny that your family did the same thing ours did for CS in the WS. Mom and Dad-Tangeriene Cafe Kids-Yorkshire County, although we also had a Japanese meal thrown in there. Eating around the World sure is fun!

You know it! I need to try that French pastry shop next time! :thumbsup2

Oh my, the fez pictures!:rotfl: Your DH looks like he's Dan's age in that first picture! How cute that you've got the matching photos through the years. I love those traditions.

He really does look young, doesn't he? We were only 22....babies!! I love traditions too and this one just cracks me up! :rotfl:

[MagicShell]

I really want to see the American Adventure. I have heard good things about it. I hope we fit it in on our next trip. It looks like you all had a great night in the World Showcase.

[mickeystoontown]

Missy, I love all of the World Showcase pictures. I never seem to take enough pictures in Epcot.

Now that I've seen the virtually empty park, I wanna go to the extra evening hours at Epcot.

[DisMomAmy]

What a unique experience to be at Epcot that late at night - and to have the place to yourself. You would think there might be a few more people around?? :confused3

The only park we've done late in recent years has been Magic Kingdom - in 2007 for MNSSHP (we certainly didn't have the park to ourselves, even though it was less crowded as far as ride lines go) and this year when we stayed for Spectro & Wishes. We had a blast both times. :thumbsup2 We'll have at least a couple late nights planned for our next trip - whenever that is. :rolleyes1

[Hobbitmomma]

Thanks for your TR, I'm really enjoying it. We suprised our kids (5 and 7 at the time) with a land/ sea trip in 2006 and stayed at the Poly. It was fabulous, but three days is NOTHING in Disney. We took in as much as we could, but missed so much. We did the character breakfast at Ohana as well and loved it! We would definitely do it again given the chance. Reading your report reminds me of how much we missed! We only got to Epcot for one evening. We did the princess dinner in Norway, Maelstrom and saw a few things in the Living Seas, but that was it. It was EMH that night, but the kids hit the wall at 9pm, so we had to leave. Hopefully we will be able to return someday. Anyway, it sounds like you had a wonderful vacation.

[Planning fanatic mom]

Great Update. I have never seen the Bambi topiary. How did I miss it?:confused3

I would have been so tired to do all of that in one night. Your kids are real troopers!!!

Can't wait to read more.popcorn::

[longing2Batdisney]

Missy! as always a great update!! I love WS at night through ya'll eyes...
the fez tradition it awesome! waiting for more...enjoying traveling with you and your family
Connie

[Angies1274]

Love all the pictures in the WS, Missy!!!:thumbsup2

It sounds like you had such a great night!! I'm sure it was just beautiful and even better with no crowds!! It's definitely something I would love:love: to do!!!

What a great idea on taking matching fez pictures!!:goodvibes So cute!!!!

We still haven't seen the O Canada movie or even the American Adventure.:sad2: They sound great though from your descriptions!! Hopefully, one of these days we can get around to seeing them.;)

[hhockman]

Missy what great pictures! I'm so excited because I thought only Mexico and Norway were open for EMH (I KNOW I read that somewhere), plus some Future World rides. I can't believe all of WS is open. That changes everything! LOL Well, at least for me. ;)

Thanks SO much for getting this update in before I left. Seriously, I have to totally rethink that night now. :lmao:

I'm sure I'll be gone when you get the next installment up, but I'll catch up when I get back! :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

I love the fez through the years pictures! :lmao: The boys really got into it!

You've got me excited now for our first-ever evening EMH at Epcot!


Kathy

[mommytothreeboys]

I really want to see the American Adventure. I have heard good things about it. I hope we fit it in on our next trip. It looks like you all had a great night in the World Showcase.

I'd say go check it out if you have the time. It's very well done. I would have liked to hear the Voices of Liberty....I hear they are fantastic!

Missy, I love all of the World Showcase pictures. I never seem to take enough pictures in Epcot.

Now that I've seen the virtually empty park, I wanna go to the extra evening hours at Epcot.

EMH was so fun! Experiencing the WS at night was very cool! And I have the opposite picture problem!

What a unique experience to be at Epcot that late at night - and to have the place to yourself. You would think there might be a few more people around?? :confused3

I thought so too, but I think a lot of the crowd was in FW riding TT and the other bigger rides. The WS really cleared out after Illuminations.

The only park we've done late in recent years has been Magic Kingdom - in 2007 for MNSSHP (we certainly didn't have the park to ourselves, even though it was less crowded as far as ride lines go) and this year when we stayed for Spectro & Wishes. We had a blast both times. :thumbsup2 We'll have at least a couple late nights planned for our next trip - whenever that is. :rolleyes1

We did an EMH night at MK this trip as well..that installment is coming up later. SO FUN!! :banana:

Thanks for your TR, I'm really enjoying it. We suprised our kids (5 and 7 at the time) with a land/ sea trip in 2006 and stayed at the Poly. It was fabulous, but three days is NOTHING in Disney. We took in as much as we could, but missed so much. We did the character breakfast at Ohana as well and loved it! We would definitely do it again given the chance. Reading your report reminds me of how much we missed! We only got to Epcot for one evening. We did the princess dinner in Norway, Maelstrom and saw a few things in the Living Seas, but that was it. It was EMH that night, but the kids hit the wall at 9pm, so we had to leave. Hopefully we will be able to return someday. Anyway, it sounds like you had a wonderful vacation.

Wow...I can't imagine only 3 days! Sounds like you did quite a bit though! We really enjoyed 'Ohana and I tried to get the boys to do the Norway meal, but with no luck! LOL! Thanks for reading!

Great Update. I have never seen the Bambi topiary. How did I miss it?:confused3

I would have been so tired to do all of that in one night. Your kids are real troopers!!!

Can't wait to read more.popcorn::

My kids really are troopers. They love the late nights as much as I do! Oh...but stay tuned...I have one boy who sometimes has trouble hanging with the rest of us! That story comes later....:rolleyes1

Missy! as always a great update!! I love WS at night through ya'll eyes...
the fez tradition it awesome! waiting for more...enjoying traveling with you and your family
Connie

Thanks Connie! I enjoy having you along! :goodvibes

Love all the pictures in the WS, Missy!!!:thumbsup2

It sounds like you had such a great night!! I'm sure it was just beautiful and even better with no crowds!! It's definitely something I would love:love: to do!!!

What a great idea on taking matching fez pictures!!:goodvibes So cute!!!!

We still haven't seen the O Canada movie or even the American Adventure.:sad2: They sound great though from your descriptions!! Hopefully, one of these days we can get around to seeing them.;)

On our last trip we didn't do any of the movies or shows in the WS so it was our goal this time to fit some of that stuff in. I'm really glad we did!

Those fez pictures are so fun...they always make me laugh! :rotfl:

Missy what great pictures! I'm so excited because I thought only Mexico and Norway were open for EMH (I KNOW I read that somewhere), plus some Future World rides. I can't believe all of WS is open. That changes everything! LOL Well, at least for me. ;)

There were some things that were closed (some shops, food stands), but there was a LOT open and I think even some things that weren't on the official list. We ended up being able to do Canada, UK, France, Morocco, Japan and USA. Now there were no performers or characters...all of those things end early. Well worth it in my opinion though!

Thanks SO much for getting this update in before I left. Seriously, I have to totally rethink that night now. :lmao:

Oh boy...I see a touring plan change in your future!! :laughing:

I'm sure I'll be gone when you get the next installment up, but I'll catch up when I get back! :thumbsup2

Have a great trip!!

I love the fez through the years pictures! :lmao: The boys really got into it!

You've got me excited now for our first-ever evening EMH at Epcot!


Kathy

Woo-Hoo! I wanna come too!

[littlezar]

Another great installment!

Love the fez pic tradition. I bet your boys will continue that with their own families someday!

Gotta know...in the pic of the boys sitting by the fountain....did Dan & Jonah splash Isaiah after the pic was taken? (Being a Mom of boys....well, the first thing that I noticed was both Dan & Jonah looked like they had a hand in the fountain ready to splash, LOL!)

Cute phone booth pic...I should have made my 4 boys cram in there. Instead they each took a turn and my 14 year old pulled out his cell phone and pretended to talk on it. (Goofball!)

[disneybound31]

OP- could you please tell me (this is a pretty dumb question, sorry) in simple terms just HOW you got back into all those cool places in WS? I hate to sound stupid, but we'll be there for our third trip - my 5th- and I have never seen some of those streets in Morrocco or the Japanese Gardens and I seem to have some memory of there being 'more' to Morrocco from when I was about 12-ish, but my family just looks at me blankly when I ask them about it. And thanks for the extensive reviews about the movies offered... we never took the time for them before (except Norway) and you make them sound like not-to-be-missed attractions. Thanks!

[khertz]

The WS at night looks amazing! Great pictures, even though it is so hard to get good pictures at night. We always just rush through the WS so I'm hoping this year we take more time there to really explore.

LOVE the fez pictures. :lmao:

[Sunset Cliffs]

Our most recent trip was the first time that we had explored Morrocco and we could not get over all of the detail. The building themselves are so beautiful and I am a big sucker for arched doorways and big palm trees. We also tried the CS restaurant and we will be going back. You had pictures of places that we didn't see this time, so we will have to do another walk-through on our next trip.

[mousescrapper]

Missy,

just love th new Fez picture! You should get a fun 3 opening frame for those...that would be great to display! :thumbsup2

[scottny]

all caught up.

looks like a fun day at Epcot with a little break thrown in.

Great pics along the way.

[mommytothreeboys]

Another great installment!

Love the fez pic tradition. I bet your boys will continue that with their own families someday!

I would LOVE that!!

Gotta know...in the pic of the boys sitting by the fountain....did Dan & Jonah splash Isaiah after the pic was taken? (Being a Mom of boys....well, the first thing that I noticed was both Dan & Jonah looked like they had a hand in the fountain ready to splash, LOL!)

LOL! Actually they didn't do any splashing that night, but I'm certain it crossed their minds!

Cute phone booth pic...I should have made my 4 boys cram in there. Instead they each took a turn and my 14 year old pulled out his cell phone and pretended to talk on it. (Goofball!)

That's great! Did you get a pic of that??? :rotfl:

OP- could you please tell me (this is a pretty dumb question, sorry) in simple terms just HOW you got back into all those cool places in WS? I hate to sound stupid, but we'll be there for our third trip - my 5th- and I have never seen some of those streets in Morrocco or the Japanese Gardens and I seem to have some memory of there being 'more' to Morrocco from when I was about 12-ish, but my family just looks at me blankly when I ask them about it. And thanks for the extensive reviews about the movies offered... we never took the time for them before (except Norway) and you make them sound like not-to-be-missed attractions. Thanks!

Okay... my advice to you is to just wander off the main walkway. If you go into the shops and exit out the back, that sometimes drops you in a very cool place! Wander down the pathways and in and out of shops and you will be surprised at what you find. If you stay on the main "street"...you will miss a lot! Have fun exploring!


The WS at night looks amazing! Great pictures, even though it is so hard to get good pictures at night. We always just rush through the WS so I'm hoping this year we take more time there to really explore.

LOVE the fez pictures. :lmao:

Epcot is so gorgeous at night and my little point and shoot just didn't do it justice. I would highly recommend taking some good time to just explore the WS....there are so many hidden gems!

Our most recent trip was the first time that we had explored Morrocco and we could not get over all of the detail. The building themselves are so beautiful and I am a big sucker for arched doorways and big palm trees. We also tried the CS restaurant and we will be going back. You had pictures of places that we didn't see this time, so we will have to do another walk-through on our next trip.

LOVE Morocco! I could stay there for hours just looking at the detail that has been put into that pavilion. Well done Imagineers!

Missy,

just love th new Fez picture! You should get a fun 3 opening frame for those...that would be great to display! :thumbsup2

Good idea! I'll have to go out and look for one. I'll put a layout in my scrapbook for sure, but it would be great to have out for all to see! :thumbsup2

all caught up.

looks like a fun day at Epcot with a little break thrown in.

Great pics along the way.

Thanks Scott!

[disneybound31]

[QUOTE=mommytothreeboys;33656433]That's great! Did you get a pic of that??? :rotfl:



Okay... my advice to you is to just wander off the main walkway. If you go into the shops and exit out the back, that sometimes drops you in a very cool place! Wander down the pathways and in and out of shops and you will be surprised at what you find. If you stay on the main "street"...you will miss a lot! Have fun expl

Thank you for this help- one more question- how do I "exit ou tthe back" of the shops? Should I just ask if I cannot see what you describe? Sorry to be so clueless.

[mommytothreeboys]

Thank you for this help- one more question- how do I "exit ou tthe back" of the shops? Should I just ask if I cannot see what you describe? Sorry to be so clueless.

If you go in the shop through the main entrance, just wander around the shop and look for another exit. Sometimes you will be taken to another shop or dropped off in a cool part of the pavilion you didn't see before. In Morocco, you walk between the Tangierine Cafe and Restaurant Marrekesh and you will find the tiled fountain, the fez shop, and the little outdoor marketplace where the Kidcot spot is located. Happy Wandering! :thumbsup2

[longing2Batdisney]

Good morning! Missy
hope your day is a wonderful one!!
eagerly waiting upon your next installment...
:wave2:

[mommytothreeboys]

Good morning! Missy
hope your day is a wonderful one!!
eagerly waiting upon your next installment...
:wave2:

Good morning Connie! I have my photos all ready to go for the next update! I need to go do some housework :laundy: and then I'll sit and type up the installment....thanks for stopping in! Hope you are having a great day as well! :thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

Time for a short recap…I feel like I need one, don’t you? Here goes….

We departed Buffalo, NY on Sunday April 19th.
Sunday, April 19th--DTD and Disney Quest
Monday, April 20th--Animal Kingdom
Tuesday, April 21st--Blizzard Beach and Resort Day
Wednesday, April 22--Magic Kingdom
Thursday, April 23rd--Hollywood Studios
Friday, April 24th--Epcot

Whew! That brings us current! We are now on Day 7 of our vacation, Saturday April 25th.

Our plan for today:

*Sleep in and hit Typhoon Lagoon at or about park opening (10:00 am)
*enjoy Typhoon lagoon until 1 or 2 pm
*back to POR to change clothes
*head back to Epcot to finish touring Future World
*see Illuminations

Sleeping in was a great idea! We had been out at Epcot until midnight the night before and it felt good to sleep in and not be awakened by an early wake-up call from Stitch! :thumbsup2 We got up around 8 or so and began to get ready for the day. We ate a breakfast of cold cereal, pop-tarts, and coffee. Jeff likes to walk to the main building each morning and get our coffee…and I appreciate the coffee delivered to my door!

It was waterpark day and we wanted to look our best! I had been collecting Disney temporary tattoos for the trip, so we all decided to “ink up” for our day at Typhoon Lagoon!

Here are Jeff, Jonah..... and Isaiah’s leg!!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200912.jpg

And Jeff and I showing off our new tats! Mine is Boo from Monster’s Inc.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200911.jpg

With that done, we packed our waterpark bag and headed off to catch the bus. We arrived at Typhoon Lagoon just before rope drop….sweet!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200910.jpg

We headed to the locker rooms to change and sunscreen before scoping out a spot to park our stuff for the morning. Jeff rented a locker while I sunscreened the boys. (We are from the frozen tundra of upstate NY and our white skin had taken a beating at Blizzard Beach on Tuesday. I wanted to keep that from happening again!)

We headed straight to the Crush and Gusher! We had seen this on the TV at POR and were looking forward to checking this so-called "water roller coaster" out! Isaiah and Dan teamed up and Jonah, Jeff and I went as a threesome. We got some great Photopass pics so I’ll just let them do the talking!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image110.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image111.jpg

Ok…those tubes are NOT easy to exit gracefully!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image113.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image114.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image117.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image118.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image123.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image121.jpg

I’m not sure how many times we rode this, but we went up and down MANY times!! It is so FUN!! At one point, I rode with a little girl who didn’t want to go alone. Her grandmother asked if I would ride with her, so I did….she was really cute and we had a nice conversation. It was fun to ride with a little girl who screamed and giggled like me!!

Once we had our fill of the Crush n Gusher, we decided to go check out the snorkeling attraction. I wasn’t sure if Jonah was old enough to do it, but I wanted to find out so we made our way in that direction. I want to say here that Typhoon Lagoon was not nearly as easy to navigate as Blizzard Beach. It’s an older park and the signage is not as good or abundant! We finally did find the Shark Reef and there was no age limit! Woo-Hoo!!! Jeff and I had done this on our honeymoon and I was so excited that the boys could experience it as well!

We got our snorkel gear and headed to the area where we got a short tutorial on how to use it from a Cast Member. Then we went to the edge of the very chilly pool/reef and sat on the edge to wait for instructions. They have groups sit on the edge, enter together, test the gear, then head out before sending the next group. We were instructed to get in the water and drop to our knees. Then we were to put our faces in the water and practice breathing through the snorkel. If all went well…no leaks, etc…we could head out into the reef. We were instructed to keep moving across the reef, not to swim at the fish, and not to stand on the island in the middle. EASY! The boys tested their gear, I made sure they were all set, then I set to checking mine out. The boys were already snorkeling away when I noticed that Jeff was having serious issues with his mask. Every time he tested it, it would leak. Meanwhile the boys are halfway across already! The CM was not all that attentive and Jeff was getting frustrated, so he just decided to deal with the small leak and he set off. We made our way across and were able to get up close and personal with all kinds of beautiful fish, sharks and rays. So COOL!

As we exited the pool on the other side, the boys were waiting for us. Isaiah was upset because he didn’t get to see many fish. Apparently Jonah had gotten way ahead of him and he was concerned that Jonah wasn’t a strong swimmer. He swam quickly to catch up to him and then just got out! Cute that he was concerned about his brother, but good grief….there was a lifeguard in the middle of the reef and one at both ends! LOL! Anyway…he wanted to go again, so I said I would do that with him. Jeff was mad about his gear and the other two were not interested in doing it again, so Isaiah and I set off to swim with the sharks again while they showered the salt water off and turned in their gear. It was really a cool thing to be able to do with just Isaiah…we had a good bonding moment!

Next on our agenda was the SURF POOL!! The boys love wave pools…I’m not a big fan. I get seasick for one, so the motion of the waves doesn’t do me any favors. Second…I hate to be pulled underwater. It scares me silly, and wave pools are notorious for doing just that. But…I had heard this one was a sight to behold, so off we went.

Some pictures I took along the way.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20097.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20099.jpg

Like usual, the theming is spot on and well done! I’m always impressed by the little details!

So….here it is. The infamous Surf Pool.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20098.jpg

Come on now…that looks harmless enough! I wade in and Jeff ,Jonah and I hang out in the not-too-deep water to await the wave. It took forever and I was really ready to just get out when I heard it. WHOOSH! Ok…now I’m scared! :eek: That wall of water hit me and took me under, knocked me around a bit and caused me to lose my sense of direction before spitting me back out. UGH!!! Okay….I did it…that’s enough for me!!! I made my way out while the boys enjoyed the surf. I stayed safely on shore and took pictures!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20096.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20094.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20093.jpg

It’s hard to really get a sense of how HUGE that wave is in the pictures. Look closely and you will see people IN the wave. It’s a big one, I tell you! Very cool, but I prefer to just watch in admiration!

We all rode the Humunga Kowabunga. Yee-ha!! Even Jonah braved that one! We all got major wedgies, but it was so worth it! I’m sure we rode more slides at Typhoon Lagoon, but I’m not really sure what they were! It’s tough when you don’t have your camera to document the memory! Here are a couple pics of Jeff and Jonah hanging out on the “beach.”

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20091.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney20092.jpg

Funny story alert! :laughing: Remember that Jeff couldn't get his snorkel gear to work appropriately? He was SO frustrated and it really ruined the experience for him. Well, as we were sitting enjoying the day, he started laughing out loud. I asked what was funny and he said he had just realized why the snorkel and mask wouldn't work. In order for the mask to make a seal and not leak, the CM had said to be sure to push the hair on your forehead back and out of the way. Being bald (love your bald head, honey!), Jeff didn't worry about that. LOL!! BUT..he failed to make the connection between the leaky mask and his moustache! He has a goatee and the hair above his lip was causing the seal to fail and water to come in near his nose!! :laughing: Too funny! He was all about blaming the equipment and being mad! :mad:

By about 1:45 we were ready to head back to POR. We grabbed nachos and soft pretzels as a quick lunch and made our way to the bus stop.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney2009.jpg

Next Installment….back to Epcot!

[mickeystoontown]

Missy, I love your update. I know I am probably going to have all this out of order but here goes:

We did Typhoon Lagoon much the same way you guys did. Arrive early and leave by lunch time. Oh, and we had tattoos too that I bought from the Dollar Tree.

Isn't the Crushin' Gusher so much fun! Your pictures turned out way better than our's did. I had my eyes almost closed coming down and the picture where we were trying to get out of the tube was baaaad! The photopass guy missed Hunter and John when they came down.

It was really sweet of you to ride with the little girl. Girls are so much fun when they start squealing and giggling. Even grown up girls.:rolleyes1

I am so with you on the wave pool. I don't want to go in there and get all knocked down and scraped up. How do people consider that fun?:confused3

We didn't do the shark reef this go round but did do it a couple of trips ago. That water is really cold and I didn't see much because Hunter didn't like the snorkel too much and was ready to just swim across and get out. It's neat that you and Isaiah got to do it again and had a little mother and son time. Too funny that Jeff realized that his mustache and goatee got in the way and it wasn't really an equipment failure after all.:laughing:

[mousescrapper]

Missy,

great new installment....that is kinda funny about Jeff's mask...

love all the cool tattos (msp) very clever :thumbsup2


I so understnad that not liking to go under water...me I don't even want to put my head in water....:eek:

You guys looked and it sounded like you had a really great day at TL...can't wait to hear about Epcot and Illuminations

J-

[Angies1274]

Great Update, Missy!!:thumbsup2

I'm loving all your pictures from TL!! We have promised the boys, that on our next trip that we will be adding the Water Parks/Disney Quest option. They are so excited!!! The Crush and Gusher looks like so much fun!!! --and wow!! those waves look huge!! It sounds like you had a great day!!

Can't wait to hear about your night at Epcot.popcorn::

[longing2Batdisney]

Fun installment!!!:beach: the older kids did both water parks when we went in May! the preferred TL over BB. They did not go to the reef; cost extra money and they wanted to go eat at Rainforest (food trumps at that age):lmao:

I just noticed (don't know why I didn't notice before or it just hit me when you recapped) that ya'll went in April. What were the crowds like? Dayne has spring break the week after that (this is a first--they normally have the week of Easter; his Sr. year it changes:confused3 go figure). So that may be a week to consider --can't be crowded or hot--we have to remember the almighty regulations! :rotfl2:

Love the family tats! too cute...and that was wonderful you and Isaiah were able to get a special moment for the two of you!

Water park option will def. go on my list for our 2015 trip--I'll be 47 and Danny will be 50 that year...think we'll be too old by than!!!! Ashton will be the perfect age 9!!!:rotfl2:
later :wave2: connie

[mommytothreeboys]

Missy, I love your update. I know I am probably going to have all this out of order but here goes:

We did Typhoon Lagoon much the same way you guys did. Arrive early and leave by lunch time. Oh, and we had tattoos too that I bought from the Dollar Tree.

Gotta love the temporary tattoos!! LOL!

Isn't the Crushin' Gusher so much fun! Your pictures turned out way better than our's did. I had my eyes almost closed coming down and the picture where we were trying to get out of the tube was baaaad! The photopass guy missed Hunter and John when they came down.

Getting out of those tubes is never ladylike!

It was really sweet of you to ride with the little girl. Girls are so much fun when they start squealing and giggling. Even grown up girls.:rolleyes1

It really was a different experience. Boys just don't squeal!

I am so with you on the wave pool. I don't want to go in there and get all knocked down and scraped up. How do people consider that fun?:confused3

Go figure!?

We didn't do the shark reef this go round but did do it a couple of trips ago. That water is really cold and I didn't see much because Hunter didn't like the snorkel too much and was ready to just swim across and get out. It's neat that you and Isaiah got to do it again and had a little mother and son time. Too funny that Jeff realized that his mustache and goatee got in the way and it wasn't really an equipment failure after all.:laughing:

It really was funny when it dawned on him! :lmao:

Missy,

great new installment....that is kinda funny about Jeff's mask...

love all the cool tattos (msp) very clever :thumbsup2


I so understnad that not liking to go under water...me I don't even want to put my head in water....:eek:

You guys looked and it sounded like you had a really great day at TL...can't wait to hear about Epcot and Illuminations

J-

We did have a great morning!

Great Update, Missy!!:thumbsup2

I'm loving all your pictures from TL!! We have promised the boys, that on our next trip that we will be adding the Water Parks/Disney Quest option. They are so excited!!! The Crush and Gusher looks like so much fun!!! --and wow!! those waves look huge!! It sounds like you had a great day!!

Can't wait to hear about your night at Epcot.popcorn::

Oh do add the WP and more option...it really is well worth it! The boys will love Disney Quest and the waterparks are fantastic! It's a nice break from the parks while still being very Disney! :thumbsup2

Fun installment!!!:beach: the older kids did both water parks when we went in May! the preferred TL over BB. They did not go to the reef; cost extra money and they wanted to go eat at Rainforest (food trumps at that age):lmao:

Actually, the regular snorkeling didn't cost extra. They have a pseudo-scuba thing that cost $20 to do, but just the snorkel/mask across the shark reef was free. We thought it was extra too, but were pleasantly surprised!

I just noticed (don't know why I didn't notice before or it just hit me when you recapped) that ya'll went in April. What were the crowds like? Dayne has spring break the week after that (this is a first--they normally have the week of Easter; his Sr. year it changes:confused3 go figure). So that may be a week to consider --can't be crowded or hot--we have to remember the almighty regulations! :rotfl2:

Our Spring Break was very late and was at the very tail end of the Spring Break crowds. We actually arrived on the day they lifted the blackout for the 4/3 deal. Crowds were really not bad....we went in April in 2007 as well (before Spring Break) and didn't find the crowds to be significantly worse this time. Crowd calendars had our days listed as 7's out of 10. The weather was PERFECT....sunny and in the mid-upper 80s all week. :thumbsup2
Love the family tats! too cute...and that was wonderful you and Isaiah were able to get a special moment for the two of you!

I really enjoyed it...those times are coming less and less these days!

Water park option will def. go on my list for our 2015 trip--I'll be 47 and Danny will be 50 that year...think we'll be too old by than!!!! Ashton will be the perfect age 9!!!:rotfl2:
later :wave2: connie

Too old...hush your mouth!! NEVER!!!

[cjackearl]

Looks like you had a blast at TL. I love the picture of you, Jeff and Jonah coming off Crush n Gusher. Cute!!

I would gladly take the wave pool over the shark reef! I know they're just little bitty sharks, but still, NO THANKS!! You know that bird thing you've got going? I have a major shark thing. I blame my dad who thought 10 was an appropriate age to take your daughter to see Jaws in the theater!:scared1:

Nachos and pretzels are perfect beach snacks, yummy!

[mom2mek]

What a fun update! You did get some great photopass pics! I myself can't do any of the water stuff - too self-conscious and too afraid, but I know Shawn really wants to take the kids (well, right now...mostly Michael)!

Too funny about the mask! Sounds like he had a great attitude about it! :goodvibes

Sara

[khertz]

Love the tats! That's such a cute idea!!

The water parks look like so much fun! I have never been to one at Disney, and it's been forever since I went to our local one. I tend to stay out of the water because I usually end up with an ear infection after I spend too much time in the water. Looks like y'all had a blast though! I definitely would side with you with the wave pool. Being tossed around by a wall of water doesn't sound like my idea of a good time! :scared1:

The snorkel story is too funny! At least your DH figured out the problem and was able to laugh about it. :goodvibes

[mommytothreeboys]

Looks like you had a blast at TL. I love the picture of you, Jeff and Jonah coming off Crush n Gusher. Cute!!

I was really happy with the Photopass pics from both waterparks. They really got some cute shots!

I would gladly take the wave pool over the shark reef! I know they're just little bitty sharks, but still, NO THANKS!! You know that bird thing you've got going? I have a major shark thing. I blame my dad who thought 10 was an appropriate age to take your daughter to see Jaws in the theater!:scared1:

Nice going Dad!! LOL!

Nachos and pretzels are perfect beach snacks, yummy!

Definitely! Who needs lunch when you have nachos??

What a fun update! You did get some great photopass pics! I myself can't do any of the water stuff - too self-conscious and too afraid, but I know Shawn really wants to take the kids (well, right now...mostly Michael)!

Too funny about the mask! Sounds like he had a great attitude about it! :goodvibes

Sara

It was so funny because he was SO annoyed then when he figured it out, he just laughed and laughed! DUH! :laughing:

Love the tats! That's such a cute idea!!

The water parks look like so much fun! I have never been to one at Disney, and it's been forever since I went to our local one. I tend to stay out of the water because I usually end up with an ear infection after I spend too much time in the water. Looks like y'all had a blast though! I definitely would side with you with the wave pool. Being tossed around by a wall of water doesn't sound like my idea of a good time! :scared1:

The snorkel story is too funny! At least your DH figured out the problem and was able to laugh about it. :goodvibes

I have ear issues as well, but I just wear earplugs in the water and I'm good to go!

[MagicShell]

It looks like you all had a great day. I haven't been on a water slide since I was a kid. I also haven't been a wave pool since I was young. A life guard had to pull me out because the waves carried me away. That is a very scary feeling.

[KathyRN137]

We headed straight to the Crush and Gusher! We had seen this on the TV at POR and were looking forward to checking this so-called "water roller coaster" out!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image110.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image111.jpg

Ok…those tubes are NOT easy to exit gracefully!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image113.jpg




Yikes, Missy, I don't think I'd ever want to be crushed or gushed! (But I'm glad you all had fun!)

Kathy

[scottny]

Nic epics and update.

I have never been to the water parks.

[mommytothreeboys]

It looks like you all had a great day. I haven't been on a water slide since I was a kid. I also haven't been a wave pool since I was young. A life guard had to pull me out because the waves carried me away. That is a very scary feeling.

See? So I have a good reason to not like wave pools! :)

Yikes, Missy, I don't think I'd ever want to be crushed or gushed! (But I'm glad you all had fun!)

Kathy

It was only the beginning of a GREAT day!

Nic epics and update.

I have never been to the water parks.

We love a good waterpark....and Disney has a two of the BEST! :thumbsup2

[3princesses+aprince]

Hi, it's been a while, I was just trying to get caught up on your TR. I was very excited to hear that you snorkeled with the sharks and fish. My daughter, Emily cannot wait to do that in August. It sounds like a lot of fun too!!! I think it will end up being just me and her that do it, I think the others will poop out, but they can take pictures. I love your TL pics, we did not do the water parks in May, so we're really looking forward to them for our next trip!!

[carissanboys]

I've missed reading about your lovely family Missy! I get such smiles reliving your trip. You guys are so much fun and seem so happy. :goodvibes

Sounds like a fun time at the water park. Some day we'll get there!! :thumbsup2

[ladybugmom]

Hi Missy!! I'm all caught up!! I love your WS Epcot pics and the Typhoon Lagoon pics!! TL looks like a lot of fun!! Your boys looked like they were REALLY enjoying their time there!! How cool that they take PP pics there!!

[Sunset Cliffs]

The water park day looked so fun! We have never done a water park at WDW...not sure why. We always just swim at the pool at our hotel. We may have to rethink that when my son gets older. You took some beautiful photos and the PhotoPass pictures were great action shots.

[mickeystoontown]

Now that Mama's home from the hospital, I'm able to catch up on all my trip reports. Hope you're having a great weekend!

[mommytothreeboys]

Hi, it's been a while, I was just trying to get caught up on your TR. I was very excited to hear that you snorkeled with the sharks and fish. My daughter, Emily cannot wait to do that in August. It sounds like a lot of fun too!!! I think it will end up being just me and her that do it, I think the others will poop out, but they can take pictures. I love your TL pics, we did not do the water parks in May, so we're really looking forward to them for our next trip!!

Snorkeling in the shark reef is so fun! Emily will love it! Just remember to take your time...you can swim as slowly as you want as long as you keep moving. Enjoy it!

I've missed reading about your lovely family Missy! I get such smiles reliving your trip. You guys are so much fun and seem so happy. :goodvibes

Sounds like a fun time at the water park. Some day we'll get there!! :thumbsup2

Thanks Carissa! I think your boys would really enjoy the waterparks....do you and Chuck like water slides and such?

Hi Missy!! I'm all caught up!! I love your WS Epcot pics and the Typhoon Lagoon pics!! TL looks like a lot of fun!! Your boys looked like they were REALLY enjoying their time there!! How cool that they take PP pics there!!

I was so excited to see that there were PP photographers at the waterparks. Those are shots you just can't get on your own! The boys had a BLAST! I'm not sure we'll be able to do another trip again without the waterpark option!

The water park day looked so fun! We have never done a water park at WDW...not sure why. We always just swim at the pool at our hotel. We may have to rethink that when my son gets older. You took some beautiful photos and the PhotoPass pictures were great action shots.

My boys LOVE a good waterpark. We have a small amusement park close to home and it has a pretty decent waterpark. They would stay in there all day and skip the rest of the park!

Now that Mama's home from the hospital, I'm able to catch up on all my trip reports. Hope you're having a great weekend!

Glad Mama is home! :goodvibes

[carissanboys]

Thanks Carissa! I think your boys would really enjoy the waterparks....do you and Chuck like water slides and such?

I'm not a fan of parading around in my bathing suit, but if we could have the park to ourselves, I'd have a blast! :rotfl:

[mommytothreeboys]

I'm not a fan of parading around in my bathing suit, but if we could have the park to ourselves, I'd have a blast! :rotfl:


I just try to convince myself that I look better than I really do! LOL! :lmao:

[mommytothreeboys]

After a quick shower and change of clothes at POR, we made our way to the bus stop to catch the next Epcot bus. Sounds easy enough, but this is the one and only time in all our time at POR (both in 2007 and on this trip) that we waited a long time for a bus. We waited and waited and finally an Epcot bus rounded the corner…unfortunately it was FULL and we had to continue to wait. At this point Jeff had a bit of an ugly tourist moment and kind of vented on the bus driver….we really did wait a long time, but it wasn’t the driver’s fault. Oh well…what do you do…move on! :rolleyes1

Finally we arrived at Epcot and headed into Future World. Now, if you remember, I stopped taking good notes early in the trip because it was just sucking the fun out of the day for me. So….I am a little fuzzy as to how this afternoon progressed, but I’ll do my best!

The time stamp on this picture of Snow White…my favorite!….says we entered the park at 3:15.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200940.jpg

Our touring goals for the rest of the afternoon were to finish touring Future World and to see Illuminations at 9:00. It was going to be a pretty laid back afternoon! :thumbsup2

Our first stop was Test Track! We love this ride and were really looking forward to riding again. We went straight to the FP machines and picked up our fast passes for later. Unfortunately, the machines were acting up! :headache: It took a while, but eventually we had success! I snapped this picture before we left the TT area. I have a very similar one in the same spot from our 2007 trip.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200939.jpg

To kill the time until we could use our FP‘s, we went to check out Spaceship Earth. This ride had been refurbished since our last visit and I was looking forward to seeing the updates! I loved the little interactive bit at the end of the ride! So fun to see yourself on the screen! We also decided that since we were having such a leisurely afternoon, we could spend some time in Project Tomorrow, the interactive “playground” at the ride’s exit. My boys loved the driving game (as did all the other boys, because the wait for that seemed longer than for the other activities). I remember playing some game that tested your reaction time on problem solving games. I really had fun with that one! I am SO competitive as is Dan, so we tried to outdo each other! ;) Jonah and Jeff played a 3-D interactive “operation” type game…too cool! I’m so glad we had time this trip to enjoy things like this area. It would have been so easy to exit the ride and hit the next one, but stopping to “smell the roses” was so worth it. Project Tomorrow is very well done and enjoyable for both kids and adults.

At this point everyone was getting hungry. We had only eaten a snack at the waterpark, so we were ready for a meal. We wanted to try out Sunshine Seasons so we headed to the Land pavilion to feed our bellies! At a place like Sunshine Seasons it’s very convenient for the boys to have their own card and to be able to choose their own food and check out on their own. Dan chose Chinese and a Butterfinger cake and went to find seats while the rest of us agonized over all of our choices! Jeff ended up getting a Chinese entrée as well, Isaiah had salmon, Jonah had a sandwich, and I got a delicious pork chop with garlic mashed potatoes. YUM! I really enjoyed my food as did the rest of the family. Jeff tasted Isaiah’s salmon and didn’t really care for it. He said it was overcooked, but Isaiah is not a connoisseur by any means and he seemed to like it! The only photo I took was of my dessert…the strawberry shortcake! VERY GOOD!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200938.jpg

On our way out of the Land, with full bellies, we decided to take this opportunity to ride the Nemo ride and explore the aquariums. If you remember, this was one of Daniel’s MUST-DO’s for this trip. On our 2007 trip, we rode the clam-mobiles, saw Crush, then headed out. We didn’t take any time at all to check out the aquariums. I, myself, am not a fan….but I love my son….so into the SEAS we go!

There was NO line at all so we twisted and turned through the empty queue before boarding our state of the art clamshell. I really thought this ride was lame on our 2007 trip, but apparently I had missed something or wasn’t paying attention because this time around it was kinda cute! I think it might have had something to do with the fact that we waited in line FOREVER last time and it just didn’t seem worth the wait. :rolleyes:

We set up a designated meeting place and the older boys set off to explore. I did my best to seem interested, but fish bore me. :upsidedow LOL! I did like watching the sea turtle….I waited a long time for him to swim by so I could snap this picture!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200937.jpg

We all met back up and posed for a few photos with our shark friends!

That Isaiah loves to ham it up!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200936.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200934.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200935.jpg

We took Mr. Ray’s quiz while we waited to see Crush. Jonah had his certificate e-mailed to him. I love those little touches of Disney that arrive when you are home and sad! Turtle Talk is such a cute show. Jonah sat down on the floor with all the kids…and he even got picked to ask a question! I wish I could remember what he asked. :rolleyes1 Oh well. I CRACK UP at this show….Dory getting squished against the glass, the kids shouting at Crush to look behind him, the bra humor….good stuff! :rotfl:


It was about 6:20 as we exited the Seas pavilion. Dan was happy that he got to explore! It was time to head over to TT to use our FP’s but we did that via the Imagination pavilion. We didn’t ride Figment this trip, but my boys LOVE the jumping fountains and really wanted to play there for a bit. So…Jeff and I grabbed a bench and watched the craziness that ensued!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200933.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200932.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200931.jpg

As you can see, the area was totally empty until the Honey I Shrunk the Audience movie let out…then it was a little crazy!

One more pic of me and my (soggy) boys!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200930.jpg

Just a pretty SE picture!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200929.jpg

On our walk across FW we found this guy and couldn’t help but stop and take some pictures. You know what they say about “birds of a feather” right? Well my boys love Stitch….need I say more?!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200927.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200928.jpg

At this point, we were well past time when we could get more FP’s, so we grabbed some for this ride before heading over to the TT pavilion.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200925.jpg

Up next…..We feel the need, the need for SPEED! :car:

[Angies1274]

YAY!! Great Update, Missy!!!:thumbsup2

Aww..sorry it took so long for a bus to show up for Epcot.:sad2: We had that happen in April too. We waited and waited some more....not fun!!:headache:

Glad to hear you enjoyed Spaceship Earth!! We didn't get a chance to explore the interactive "playground" in Project Tomorrow. It's our list for next time.:thumbsup2

We love Sunshine Seasons!!--and that Strawberry Shortcake looks so yummy!! Mmmm.....I want a piece right now!!:laughing:

Love the picture with the boys and Stitch. I don't remember seeing that topiary when we were there. :confused3

[mommytothreeboys]

YAY!! Great Update, Missy!!!:thumbsup2

Aww..sorry it took so long for a bus to show up for Epcot.:sad2: We had that happen in April too. We waited and waited some more....not fun!!:headache:

Glad to hear you enjoyed Spaceship Earth!! We didn't get a chance to explore the interactive "playground" in Project Tomorrow. It's our list for next time.:thumbsup2

We love Sunshine Seasons!!--and that Strawberry Shortcake looks so yummy!! Mmmm.....I want a piece right now!!:laughing:

Love the picture with the boys and Stitch. I don't remember seeing that topiary when we were there. :confused3

Hi Angie! That Stitch topiary was so cute! I think it was over near Mission Space and Ellen's Universe of Energy.

The strawberry shortcake was delicious! I'm not a big chocolate fan, but fruity desserts are just my speed!

Your boys would love Project Tomorrow....just try to go at a time when it's not so crowded. If it's packed it's frustrating to have to wait to play something!

[longing2Batdisney]

Missy,
SUPER FUN UPDATE!!!
OMG! that strawberry shortcake looks awesome!!!!

[ladybugmom]

Great update Missy!! Yes, that Strawberry Shortcake looks TDF!!! How fun that Jonah got picked during the Crush show!! Ally did too on our trip--she was soooo excited!! And sorry about the bus issue at POR. A friend of mine stayed there over Spring Break and had bus issues a lot b/c it was such a huge resort and they went at a super-busy time of year. Glad you didn't let it ruin your day!! Can't wait to hear more!

[mommytothreeboys]

Missy,
SUPER FUN UPDATE!!!
OMG! that strawberry shortcake looks awesome!!!!

Thanks Connie! That was a HUGE dessert! If I remember correctly I had some help eating it! ;)

Great update Missy!! Yes, that Strawberry Shortcake looks TDF!!! How fun that Jonah got picked during the Crush show!! Ally did too on our trip--she was soooo excited!! And sorry about the bus issue at POR. A friend of mine stayed there over Spring Break and had bus issues a lot b/c it was such a huge resort and they went at a super-busy time of year. Glad you didn't let it ruin your day!! Can't wait to hear more!

I had heard all the horror stories about the buses at POR, but honestly, we have NEVER had significant issues. I think this episode was the only one that we even batted an eyelash at...and I really think it was because it was the middle of the afternoon. I hope your friend doesn't let it spoil her opinion of POR. It really is a beautiful resort! :cloud9:

[lisalonglash]

After a quick shower and change of clothes at POR, we made our way to the bus stop to catch the next Epcot bus. Sounds easy enough, but this is the one and only time in all our time at POR (both in 2007 and on this trip) that we waited a long time for a bus. We waited and waited and finally an Epcot bus rounded the corner…unfortunately it was FULL and we had to continue to wait. At this point Jeff had a bit of an ugly tourist moment and kind of vented on the bus driver….we really did wait a long time, but it wasn’t the driver’s fault. Oh well…what do you do…move on! :rolleyes1

:hug:

Finally we arrived at Epcot and headed into Future World. Now, if you remember, I stopped taking good notes early in the trip because it was just sucking the fun out of the day for me. So….I am a little fuzzy as to how this afternoon progressed, but I’ll do my best!

That's how we roll too - I only took notes every evening, which probably means my TR is going to suck, but we're "live in the moment" kind of people (aka, we forget to take notes and forget to take enough pictures lol) :lmao:

Our touring goals for the rest of the afternoon were to finish touring Future World and to see Illuminations at 9:00. It was going to be a pretty laid back afternoon! :thumbsup2

Sounds like a great plan :thumbsup2

Our first stop was Test Track! We love this ride and were really looking forward to riding again. We went straight to the FP machines and picked up our fast passes for later. Unfortunately, the machines were acting up! :headache: It took a while, but eventually we had success!

"Hello, my name is Lisa and I'm a Test Track-aholic". Yeah, I'm not too proud to admit it! That is the best ride ever! :yay:

I snapped this picture before we left the TT area. I have a very similar one in the same spot from our 2007 trip.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200939.jpg

Great picture!

To kill the time until we could use our FP‘s, we went to check out Spaceship Earth. This ride had been refurbished since our last visit and I was looking forward to seeing the updates! I loved the little interactive bit at the end of the ride! So fun to see yourself on the screen! We also decided that since we were having such a leisurely afternoon, we could spend some time in Project Tomorrow, the interactive “playground” at the ride’s exit. My boys loved the driving game (as did all the other boys, because the wait for that seemed longer than for the other activities). I remember playing some game that tested your reaction time on problem solving games. I really had fun with that one! I am SO competitive as is Dan, so we tried to outdo each other! ;) Jonah and Jeff played a 3-D interactive “operation” type game…too cool! I’m so glad we had time this trip to enjoy things like this area. It would have been so easy to exit the ride and hit the next one, but stopping to “smell the roses” was so worth it. Project Tomorrow is very well done and enjoyable for both kids and adults.

It's so much fun there, hey?! The car-driving games consumed much of our time there - what is it with boys and driving games? :rotfl:

At this point everyone was getting hungry. We had only eaten a snack at the waterpark, so we were ready for a meal. We wanted to try out Sunshine Seasons so we headed to the Land pavilion to feed our bellies! At a place like Sunshine Seasons it’s very convenient for the boys to have their own card and to be able to choose their own food and check out on their own. Dan chose Chinese and a Butterfinger cake and went to find seats while the rest of us agonized over all of our choices! Jeff ended up getting a Chinese entrée as well, Isaiah had salmon, Jonah had a sandwich, and I got a delicious pork chop with garlic mashed potatoes. YUM! I really enjoyed my food as did the rest of the family. Jeff tasted Isaiah’s salmon and didn’t really care for it. He said it was overcooked, but Isaiah is not a connoisseur by any means and he seemed to like it! The only photo I took was of my dessert…the strawberry shortcake! VERY GOOD!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200938.jpg

Yummalicious! :cloud9:

On our way out of the Land, with full bellies, we decided to take this opportunity to ride the Nemo ride and explore the aquariums. If you remember, this was one of Daniel’s MUST-DO’s for this trip. On our 2007 trip, we rode the clam-mobiles, saw Crush, then headed out. We didn’t take any time at all to check out the aquariums. I, myself, am not a fan….but I love my son….so into the SEAS we go!

:hug:

There was NO line at all so we twisted and turned through the empty queue before boarding our state of the art clamshell. I really thought this ride was lame on our 2007 trip, but apparently I had missed something or wasn’t paying attention because this time around it was kinda cute! I think it might have had something to do with the fact that we waited in line FOREVER last time and it just didn’t seem worth the wait. :rolleyes:

That's the key right there, I think.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200937.jpg

Awesome picture, dude! Like, totally! :laughing:

That Isaiah loves to ham it up!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200936.jpg

As we said a few times, "boys are friends, NOT food" LMAO

We took Mr. Ray’s quiz while we waited to see Crush. Jonah had his certificate e-mailed to him. I love those little touches of Disney that arrive when you are home and sad! Turtle Talk is such a cute show. Jonah sat down on the floor with all the kids…and he even got picked to ask a question! I wish I could remember what he asked. :rolleyes1 Oh well. I CRACK UP at this show….Dory getting squished against the glass, the kids shouting at Crush to look behind him, the bra humor….good stuff! :rotfl:

Agreed! :woohoo:

It was about 6:20 as we exited the Seas pavilion. Dan was happy that he got to explore! It was time to head over to TT to use our FP’s but we did that via the Imagination pavilion. We didn’t ride Figment this trip, but my boys LOVE the jumping fountains and really wanted to play there for a bit. So…Jeff and I grabbed a bench and watched the craziness that ensued!

Great pictures! That looks like so much fun!

One more pic of me and my (soggy) boys!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200930.jpg

Fantastic!

On our walk across FW we found this guy and couldn’t help but stop and take some pictures. You know what they say about “birds of a feather” right? Well my boys love Stitch….need I say more?!

:rotfl2:

Up next…..We feel the need, the need for SPEED! :car:

Vroom vroom! :cool1:

[MagicShell]

I'm glad you found time to enjoy the lesser used parts of Epcot. We never take the time for that, maybe some day.

[DisMomAmy]

All caught up again!! Luckily you didn't get too far ahead of me. :rolleyes1

Typhoon Lagoon looks like it was a lot of fun - one of these days we'll have to check out the water parks. Maybe next time??

The boys look like they had a lot of fun with those fountains at Epcot!! :thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

I'm glad you found time to enjoy the lesser used parts of Epcot. We never take the time for that, maybe some day.

We took A LOT of time at Epcot this trip...on purpose. We wanted to be able to see all the little things that we normally miss!

All caught up again!! Luckily you didn't get too far ahead of me. :rolleyes1

Typhoon Lagoon looks like it was a lot of fun - one of these days we'll have to check out the water parks. Maybe next time??

The boys look like they had a lot of fun with those fountains at Epcot!! :thumbsup2

I'd say if the budget allows for a longer trip...definitely add the waterparks. We had a blast!

And those boys were SOAKED after playing in the fountains! It was dusk, and cooling off, so I was a little concerned, but they had a great time and never complained later about being cold and wet!

[mommytothreeboys]

After our visit with Stitch and getting FP’s for Mission Space, it was finally time to use our Fastpasses for Test Track! :banana: I’ll admit…I feel the need for speed more than I should! I got two speeding tickets in a 6 month span a couple of years ago and I have since slowed down….but I LOVE to go fast! Test Track is right up my alley….and of course it’s cars so the boys love it too. We jumped in the FP line and made it to our briefing room and then into our test car. My FAVORITE part of this ride is when the big truck with its headlights comes at you out of nowhere! It scares me silly every time! :scared1: And of course I love the fast part outside as well…go figure! I think my boys love the car showroom at the exit just as much as the ride, honestly. It bores me to tears, but here are a few pics of my boys in their glory! Isaiah has recently developed a love for sports cars, so he just ate this up!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200922.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200923.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200924.jpg

After a brief stop in the gift shop, we exited the TT pavilion into the beautiful sight that is Orlando at sunset! Aahhh….I love this time of day! :cloud9: Our next order of business was to use those FP’s for Mission Space. This is one ride I sit out. I just can’t take the chance that I will get sick… that would ruin my day and it’s just not worth it to me. Jonah decided to try it this time which left me to sit on a bench and enjoy the time to myself! :thumbsup2 I think I took this picture earlier when we got the fast passes because of the lighting, but this was my view as I waited for the boys. What’s not to love about that!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200926.jpg

My brave space explorers after their ride!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200921.jpg


Jonah’s face cracks me up in this one…I’m not really sure what that was all about!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200920.jpg

It was 8:05 when we were finished with Mission Space and it was time to head across the lagoon to find a viewing spot for Illuminations. We headed on the quiet pathway by the Odyssey building….what is that, by the way? :confused3…and made our way through Mexico on our quest for a good spot. Isaiah really wanted a churro, but we didn’t want to stop until we found a place to park ourselves so we promised him he could head back after we were all situated. We found a great spot along the wall just outside of the Biergarten restaurant in Germany and parked ourselves and our gear.

Isaiah set off in search of his beloved churro and Jeff went into Sommerfest to get us a frankfurter meal to share and a soft pretzel for Jonah. I think Dan may have gone back to China and had another Noodle Bowl, but again, I’m a little fuzzy! I know that Isaiah seemed to take a long time getting back from Mexico and I was beginning to get a little worried. It was almost 9 and the show was going to start…..I knew they would dim the lights and I was concerned he wouldn’t be able to find us. But…..just as the show began, Isaiah appeared with his churro in hand! Yay! :cool1: He made it! This kid is really too funny…as he’s settling himself in along the wall, he comments, very matter-of-factly….“Man, I’m tired…I just walked all the way from Mexico to Germany.” :rotfl: Now he KNEW that was funny, but his deadpan delivery made it all the funnier! He’s a trip, that boy! :lmao:

As the show started I handed out the glowsticks that I had brought along. I highly recommend this! The boys love them and it’s fun to share with other kids as well.

This is Dan’s glowstick creation…..he is in this picture, but I wanted the glowsticks to show up so I didn’t use a flash!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200918.jpg

And here’s Jonah.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200919.jpg

I absolutely LOVE Illuminations. :lovestruc I am a sucker for any fireworks, but this show has so many cool little extras. I like how they “blow” out the torches, I love how each country lights up, the water effects are great….I can’t say enough. It really is a great show and a MUST DO for our family. My pics aren’t the greatest, but I’ll let them speak for themselves.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200917.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200916.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200915.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200914.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200913.jpg

After the show, we made our way with the rest of the crowd toward the front gate. It was time to head back to POR and do a little night swimming before going to bed. It had been a long, but GREAT day! We knew we would be returning to Epcot on Monday, so we bid it a fond “see ya later” and boarded our bus.

So….what did we accomplish today? A recap if you will….

**Enjoyed Typhoon Lagoon from 10 until 2

**Epcot by 3:15

**Explored the Seas with Nemo and Friends

**Ate at Sunshine Seasons

**Played in the jumping fountains

**Rode TT

**Rode Mission Space

**Enjoyed Illuminations

What’s NEXT???? Back to the Magic Kingdom! :woohoo:

[Tnkrbelle565]

WOW... you had a very busy day!!!

"I walked from Germany to Mexico"" :lmao:

Love love love Test Track!!! Some day I want to break out my camera and catch everyone's expression as we are racing along. But I'm not brave enough yet!

[lisalonglash]

After our visit with Stitch and getting FP’s for Mission Space, it was finally time to use our Fastpasses for Test Track! :banana: I’ll admit…I feel the need for speed more than I should! I got two speeding tickets in a 6 month span a couple of years ago and I have since slowed down….but I LOVE to go fast! Test Track is right up my alley….and of course it’s cars so the boys love it too. We jumped in the FP line and made it to our briefing room and then into our test car. My FAVORITE part of this ride is when the big truck with its headlights comes at you out of nowhere! It scares me silly every time! :scared1: And of course I love the fast part outside as well…go figure! I think my boys love the car showroom at the exit just as much as the ride, honestly. It bores me to tears, but here are a few pics of my boys in their glory! Isaiah has recently developed a love for sports cars, so he just ate this up!

Did I mention I love TT? :laughing: The car showroom is neat (our boys loved that too) and the drop shop is cool (we may or may not have all purchased TT t-shirts :rolleyes1). Great pictures of your boys! :goodvibes

After a brief stop in the gift shop, we exited the TT pavilion into the beautiful sight that is Orlando at sunset! Aahhh….I love this time of day! :cloud9: Our next order of business was to use those FP’s for Mission Space. This is one ride I sit out. I just can’t take the chance that I will get sick… that would ruin my day and it’s just not worth it to me. Jonah decided to try it this time which left me to sit on a bench and enjoy the time to myself! :thumbsup2 I think I took this picture earlier when we got the fast passes because of the lighting, but this was my view as I waited for the boys. What’s not to love about that!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200926.jpg

Gorgeous picture! I feel the same way about M:S - no way am I taking that chance :sick:

Jonah’s face cracks me up in this one…I’m not really sure what that was all about!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200920.jpg

So funny! :rotfl:

This kid is really too funny…as he’s settling himself in along the wall, he comments, very matter-of-factly….“Man, I’m tired…I just walked all the way from Mexico to Germany.” :rotfl: Now he KNEW that was funny, but his deadpan delivery made it all the funnier! He’s a trip, that boy! :lmao:

Whew! No wonder he was tired :rotfl2:

I absolutely LOVE Illuminations. :lovestruc I am a sucker for any fireworks, but this show has so many cool little extras. I like how they “blow” out the torches, I love how each country lights up, the water effects are great….I can’t say enough. It really is a great show and a MUST DO for our family. My pics aren’t the greatest, but I’ll let them speak for themselves.

Your pictures are wonderful! I hope that one day, we'll be able to see Illuminations :woohoo:

After the show, we made our way with the rest of the crowd toward the front gate. It was time to head back to POR and do a little night swimming before going to bed. It had been a long, but GREAT day! We knew we would be returning to Epcot on Monday, so we bid it a fond “see ya later” and boarded our bus.

Sounds great!

So….what did we accomplish today? A recap if you will….

**Enjoyed Typhoon Lagoon from 10 until 2
**Epcot by 3:15
**Explored the Seas with Nemo and Friends
**Ate at Sunshine Seasons
**Played in the jumping fountains
**Rode TT
**Rode Mission Space
**Enjoyed Illuminations

What’s NEXT???? Back to the Magic Kingdom! :woohoo:

Such a fantastic day! :yay: Can't wait for your next update popcorn::

Oh, and I believe the Odyssey building is for special events, conventions, etc.

Edited to add that I found some neat information about the Odyssey building - the information below is from http://www.yesterland.com/flower2007.html. The info below is part of the information posted on that site for 2007 Flower & Garden Festival. If you go to the link, there's a picture of the inside of the building!

The Festival Center
Epcot old-timers will remember a large counter service restaurant called the Odyssey between the Mexico pavilion and Future World. The building is still there, but it’s closed to guests much of the year, giving the appearance of a defunct restaurant.

Flower child Mickey Mouse on a sign at Epcot’s Odyssey Center.
In reality, it’s now the Odyssey Center for special events and it’s used intensively during the Food & Wine Festival and Flower & Garden Festival. (It’s also used for catered events throughout the year.)

During the Festival, Epcot’s Odyssey Center is the Garden Odyssey Festival Center.

Author and radio host Tom McCubbin discusses edible landscaping.
Every week, the Festival Center presents a “Great American Gardener” (who appears twice a day for three days) and a “Disney Gardening at Home” presentation (twice a day for five days). We saw a presentation on edible landscaping by Tom McCubbin one week and a 45-minute sales pitch for Guerlain fragrances by Guerlain’s Raymond Western another week. Both men have excellent presentation skills, so we enjoyed them.

[longing2Batdisney]

Hi! Missy,
Great day! wonderful ending!!!!
I love the glow sticks; each time we go past the Odyssey bldg I try so hard to remember what is use to be and just can't remember for the life of me! even now I may just have to do some research!!

Can't wait to have some fun in the MK pixiedust: abounds...

Have a great day! :sunny:
:wave2: Connie

Thanks! lisalonglash (hope I got that right) now that you put that I remember it being a resturant! we ate there when we brought Danny for the first time!

[KathyRN137]

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SaturdayWPandEpcot--Disney200913.jpg
.

So….what did we accomplish today? A recap if you will….

**Enjoyed Typhoon Lagoon from 10 until 2

**Epcot by 3:15

**Explored the Seas with Nemo and Friends

**Ate at Sunshine Seasons

**Played in the jumping fountains

**Rode TT

**Rode Mission Space

**Enjoyed Illuminations

What’s NEXT???? Back to the Magic Kingdom! :woohoo:


Wow, Missy, you guys did do a lot!

I love all the colors in that last fireworks pic! :lovestruc


Kathy

[Planning fanatic mom]

Love the Illuminations pics.:love:

Can you believe that we have never seen it? It will on the "not to be missed" list next June.:banana:

[Angies1274]

Yay!!:yay:for Test Track!! It's such a fun ride!! I must have a need for speed as well because I love the part when the door opens and out you GO...faster and faster!! Love it!!;)

Glow sticks are a great idea!! We did that in April with the boys and they loved it!! BTW--very cute glow stick creations!!!:thumbsup2

Love the Illumination pictures!! You got some great shots. We still haven't seen it.:sad2: We were supposed to make it in August but with the all the rain...we skipped it again. Hopefully next time.:)

Wow!! You did get alot accomplished.::yes::

Can't wait to hear about Magic Kingdom!!!popcorn::

[MagicShell]

What a busy day, and still you are going to swim? It sounds like you all were enjoying every minute of your trip.

[cjackearl]

Aw, Missy you guys always look like you're having the best time together.:grouphug:

I LOVE the picture of Dan from behind jumping in the fountains, and Isaiah's "hamming it up" picture in Bruce's mouth. He and my Maddy would get along famously.:laughing:

If I had to pick a sports car color, it would definitely be yellow. I wouldn't let Ian play in those cars because I didn't think it was allowed.:rolleyes: Imagine my surprise when I saw pictures in every trip report I read of kids in those cars!:laughing:

You had a busy, busy fun filled day.:goodvibes

[carissanboys]

You had some really awesome pictures in these last two installments! :thumbsup2

That strawberry shortcake looked delicious!

I loved the way you took the picture of the boys with Stitch. :goodvibes

And the Illuminations pictures were wonderful! :cool1:

[mom2mek]

Your "fish bore me" comment had me laughing out loud! :rotfl2:

Love those Illuminations pics! What a fabulous night! :goodvibes

Sara

[mommytothreeboys]

WOW... you had a very busy day!!!

"I walked from Germany to Mexico"" :lmao:

Love love love Test Track!!! Some day I want to break out my camera and catch everyone's expression as we are racing along. But I'm not brave enough yet!

My son really cracks me up! And TT is one of the best rides! I LOVE that you can add the ride pic to your PP account..they should do that for more rides.

Did I mention I love TT? :laughing: The car showroom is neat (our boys loved that too) and the drop shop is cool (we may or may not have all purchased TT t-shirts :rolleyes1). Great pictures of your boys!

LOL! Ahhhh...the lure of the gift shop! :rotfl:


Your pictures are wonderful! I hope that one day, we'll be able to see Illuminations :woohoo:

I highly recommend it! Great show!

Such a fantastic day! Can't wait for your next update popcorn::

Oh, and I believe the Odyssey building is for special events, conventions, etc.

Edited to add that I found some neat information about the Odyssey building - the information below is from http://www.yesterland.com/flower2007.html. The info below is part of the information posted on that site for 2007 Flower & Garden Festival. If you go to the link, there's a picture of the inside of the building!

The Festival Center
Epcot old-timers will remember a large counter service restaurant called the Odyssey between the Mexico pavilion and Future World. The building is still there, but it’s closed to guests much of the year, giving the appearance of a defunct restaurant.

Flower child Mickey Mouse on a sign at Epcot’s Odyssey Center.
In reality, it’s now the Odyssey Center for special events and it’s used intensively during the Food & Wine Festival and Flower & Garden Festival. (It’s also used for catered events throughout the year.)

During the Festival, Epcot’s Odyssey Center is the Garden Odyssey Festival Center.

Author and radio host Tom McCubbin discusses edible landscaping.
Every week, the Festival Center presents a “Great American Gardener” (who appears twice a day for three days) and a “Disney Gardening at Home” presentation (twice a day for five days). We saw a presentation on edible landscaping by Tom McCubbin one week and a 45-minute sales pitch for Guerlain fragrances by Guerlain’s Raymond Western another week. Both men have excellent presentation skills, so we enjoyed them.



Thanks for all of that info...we assumed it was for special events, but I've never seen it being used. I had no idea it used to be a restaurant!

Hi! Missy,
Great day! wonderful ending!!!!
I love the glow sticks; each time we go past the Odyssey bldg I try so hard to remember what is use to be and just can't remember for the life of me! even now I may just have to do some research!!

Can't wait to have some fun in the MK pixiedust: abounds...

Have a great day!
Connie

Thanks! lisalonglash (hope I got that right) now that you put that I remember it being a resturant! we ate there when we brought Danny for the first time!

The DIS is wonderful! Ask a question and you get an answer!! :goodvibes

Wow, Missy, you guys did do a lot!

I love all the colors in that last fireworks pic!


Kathy

I never get good fireworks pics, but I really liked this one. Thanks!

Love the Illuminations pics.:love:

Can you believe that we have never seen it? It will on the "not to be missed" list next June.

You will really enjoy it. Watch for all the cool little touches.

Yay!!:yay:for Test Track!! It's such a fun ride!! I must have a need for speed as well because I love the part when the door opens and out you GO...faster and faster!! Love it!!;)

Glow sticks are a great idea!! We did that in April with the boys and they loved it!! BTW--very cute glow stick creations!!!:thumbsup2

Love the Illumination pictures!! You got some great shots. We still haven't seen it.:sad2: We were supposed to make it in August but with the all the rain...we skipped it again. Hopefully next time.:)

Wow!! You did get alot accomplished.

Can't wait to hear about Magic Kingdom!!!

Glowsticks are one of the best ideas I've received on the DIS. So simple and the kids just LOVE them!

What a busy day, and still you are going to swim? It sounds like you all were enjoying every minute of your trip.

We do like to squeeze every last moment of fun out of a trip! :rolleyes1

Aw, Missy you guys always look like you're having the best time together.

I LOVE the picture of Dan from behind jumping in the fountains, and Isaiah's "hamming it up" picture in Bruce's mouth. He and my Maddy would get along famously.

That boy keeps a smile on my face...that is, when I'm not wanting to wring his neck!

If I had to pick a sports car color, it would definitely be yellow. I wouldn't let Ian play in those cars because I didn't think it was allowed.:rolleyes: Imagine my surprise when I saw pictures in every trip report I read of kids in those cars!

LOL! Next trip you'll know better. Ian will be in his glory!

You had a busy, busy fun filled day.:goodvibes

We did...and the next day promises to be just as fun filled and busy! Evening EMH at MK! :yay:

You had some really awesome pictures in these last two installments! :thumbsup2

That strawberry shortcake looked delicious!

I loved the way you took the picture of the boys with Stitch. :goodvibes

And the Illuminations pictures were wonderful!

Hi Carissa! Thanks for the compliments on the pictures. Good to hear from you...hope things are going well for you and the boys. :hug:

Your "fish bore me" comment had me laughing out loud! :rotfl2:

Love those Illuminations pics! What a fabulous night!

Sara

I'm glad I could amuse you! :rotfl: I just don't get the fascination...they swim...so what?? LOL!

[3princesses+aprince]

Sounds like you had a really awesome day. I absolutely LOVE Test Track too, I can't wait to go on it in August. I love the part on the track outside, it's such a thrill. I'm super excited too, that Sam will be at 40 inches next year and can enjoy those fun rides with us too. She'll like them, she LOVES rides.

[mommytothreeboys]

Sounds like you had a really awesome day. I absolutely LOVE Test Track too, I can't wait to go on it in August. I love the part on the track outside, it's such a thrill. I'm super excited too, that Sam will be at 40 inches next year and can enjoy those fun rides with us too. She'll like them, she LOVES rides.

Woo-Hoo!! Sam will have a BLAST!! :banana:

[mommytothreeboys]

Our fun-filled 10 day trip is beginning to wind down and as I write this I’m sad all over again. Writing this TR has been a great way to re-live all the magical moments and I’ll miss it when I’m finished. But….NOT DONE YET!!

For those keeping track, it is now Sunday April 26th. We are on DAY 8 of our fabulous vacation and it’s our second Magic Kingdom day! It is a PM EMH night and our plans are to close the place down!

Touring Plans for the Day:

*Be at MK in time for Opening show
*Tour Tomorrow land (Buzz, Monster’s Inc, Carousel of Progrss)
*Tour Fantasyland (TeaCups, It’s a Small World, Snow White, Dumbo)
*Tour Toontown (meet Fairies)
*Eat lunch
*Break to resort
*Back to MK for EMH
*Spectro at 9:00 from Liberty Square
*Enjoy EMH attractions until we drop!

After getting a good night’s sleep, we were ready to hit the MK running! We decided to skip breakfast in the room and planned to find some sweet treats at the Main Street Bakery instead. Off to the bus stop we went, ready for a great day at the MK.:woohoo:

We arrived at MK in plenty of time to get through the security line and find a good viewing spot for the opening show. We had not seen this show on our last trip and I was so excited! There’s just something magical in the air on an MK day and this was the perfect way to kick it off! Finally, we heard the whistle of the train and the show began! Here are the pics I was able to get as we watched.

Can you hear the whistle and feel the excitement?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200919.jpg

Here’s MICKEY!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200918.jpg

A couple of Snow White--my favorite Disney princess!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200917.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200916.jpg

The “family of the day” getting ready to open the park.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200915.jpg

Right after they threw the confetti…can you see it in the bushes?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200914.jpg

The Opening show was definitely worth seeing. It just set the tone for a MAGICAL day! Wouldn’t it be cool to be the “family of the day”?? A girl can dream……..

As we entered the park, we saw this guy waiting to greet guests. We LOVE Pinocchio…especially Jeff, so we just had to stop and get our pictures and autographs.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200912.jpg

Pinocchio got a kick out of Jonah’s Goofy ears.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200913.jpg
There was no Photopass photographer with Pinocchio, but the handler offered to take our picture. I love this one! Dan wasn’t trying to be gangsta….his hat just got stuck under Pinocchio’s!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200911.jpg

After our meet and greet, we headed down Main Street. I LOVE Main Street…the bright balloons, the CM’s waving with their big Mickey hands, the view of the castle, the music. There’s just nothing like it. :cloud9: I try so hard to soak it all in while I’m there.

The smell of the bakery led us right to the front door and we got in the short line to wait to pick our treats. I had wanted to visit here last trip, but it just never fit in, so I was so happy we made it this time. Everything looked and smelled so delicious…how would we ever choose??? We ended up deciding on a cherry turnover for me, an apple turnover for Jeff, a chocolate croissant for Isaiah, and a HUGE cinnamon roll for Dan and Jonah to share. We topped it off with some OJ and Jeff and I shared a frozen latte….YUM! We used 6 snack credits and had MORE than enough food for all of us.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20097.jpg

The whole cinnamon roll--it was GINORMOUS!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20099.jpg

After we split it…don’t look so sad Dan!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20098.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200910.jpg

It was barely 9:30 and we had seen the Opening show, got a photo op with Pinocchio, and had a delicious breakfast at the Main Street Bakery. I can’t think of a much better morning than that!

It was now time to head over the bridge to Tomorrowland. Our goal was to ride one of our very favorites…BUZZ LIGHTYEAR!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20096.jpg

We found a PP photographer on the bridge and decided to take some pics with just Jeff and I.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image125.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image126.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image127.jpg

Here's the one Jonah took!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20095.jpg

Do you like our matchy-matchy shirts? I originally just made one for myself thinking there was no way my family would wear identical shirts. But…they all wanted one when they saw the finished product!

After our photo session, we walked right on to Buzz Lightyear. I think with the addition of the Toy Story ride at DHS, the popularity of this ride has diminished. But…we still LOVE it and couldn’t wait to test our skills against the evil Emperor Zurg! I rode with Jonah, while Jeff and Isaiah rode together, with Dan riding solo. What a great ride! BUT SO FRUSTRATING! I can’t get a good score to save my life…but never fear. We will definitely be back to try again! We got a set of FP’s to use later in the day before we headed over to visit…..



STITCH!!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20092.jpg

Again….the characters just LOVED Jonah’s Goofy ears!

I’m just going to post all the pics of the Stitch meet and greet….there was NO ONE else there so we got a lot of time with the little blue guy!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20093.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20094.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney20091.jpg

We also got the exclusive services of a PP photographer…CONTINUED NEXT POST!

[mommytothreeboys]

Our Photopass session with Stitch continued…..

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image128.jpg

Stitch had Dan’s pin lanyard hanging on his ear…silly alien!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image129.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image131.jpg

Dan retrieving his lanyard!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image133.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image136.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image137.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image138.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image139.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image140.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image142.jpg

Once we finished playing with Stitch it was time to head over to see some other Monsters. The Monsters of Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor! This attraction was new on our 2007 trip and we never made it in , so we were very excited to check it out this trip! As we stood in line, Jonah texted in a joke…or more accurately I texted in a joke FOR Jonah. It wasn’t chosen, but he was okay with that. We really enjoyed the show and it was so fun to see the boys just laugh out loud at the jokes. We are a family that appreciates a good corny joke, so this show was perfect! I only took one picture…..in the line, but here it is!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney2009-1.jpg

Our next order of business was to head over to Fantasyland and take a ride with Alice on her crazy teacups. But…before we get there…we got a nice surprise! Stay tuned! popcorn::

[mom2mek]

Oooo...a surprise??? :scratchin

Love the matchy shirts! I'm a big fan of matching at Disney! (but only at Disney...:laughing:)

Love that opening ceremony...:love: and breakfast at the bakery sounds great!

Those pictures with Stitch are fabulous! :goodvibes

popcorn::popcorn::

Sara

[mousescrapper]

Hi Missy :wave2:


sorry to be a bit MIA on your TR of late...but I am all caught up w/ reading the last 3 updates....and loved every minute of it. What I take away the most is just how much fun you and your 4 big boys have together...from the big stuff to the little stuff and you are such a great Mom and wife hanging w/ them and being such a super planner to have a great time :thumbsup2

plus I so see the allure in going and how fun it will be when my 4 kiddos are bigger and how much fun DH & I will still have...each trip brings new adventure w/ each stage of life!

I love all the pictures, stories and fun you all have been having!

Hope the Surprise is Awesome...can't wait for more though sad it's almost over....

Scrappie J~

[Angies1274]

Aww....love the opening show at Magic Kingdom.:cloud9: It really is such a magical way to start the day!!:thumbsup2

That cinnamon roll looks delish!! YUM!! No wonder Dan was sad he had to split it.:rotfl:

What great pictures of you and your DH!! We never think to get pictures of just the two of us in the parks.:confused3

Stitch is so funny!! Great pics w/ the boys!!!It looks like they had a great time with him!;) We were very happy to see Buzz in August but we were sad we missed Stitch.:sad2: He's one of the boys favorites. Hopefully, we will catch him next visit.:goodvibes

Hmmm....I wonder what the surprise is.popcorn::

[mommytothreeboys]

Oooo...a surprise??? :scratchin

Love the matchy shirts! I'm a big fan of matching at Disney! (but only at Disney...:laughing:)

Love that opening ceremony...:love: and breakfast at the bakery sounds great!

Those pictures with Stitch are fabulous! :goodvibes

popcorn::popcorn::

Sara

I like the matchy-matchy too, but I really thought it would be a harder sell to my boys!

Breakfast at the bakery was like heaven...if you haven't done it, put it on the list!

Hi Missy :wave2:


sorry to be a bit MIA on your TR of late...but I am all caught up w/ reading the last 3 updates....and loved every minute of it. What I take away the most is just how much fun you and your 4 big boys have together...from the big stuff to the little stuff and you are such a great Mom and wife hanging w/ them and being such a super planner to have a great time :thumbsup2

plus I so see the allure in going and how fun it will be when my 4 kiddos are bigger and how much fun DH & I will still have...each trip brings new adventure w/ each stage of life!

I love all the pictures, stories and fun you all have been having!

Hope the Surprise is Awesome...can't wait for more though sad it's almost over....

Scrappie J~

Thanks so much Julie! I'm so glad you are getting that from this report...that was my goal. I may not have all the details, but I hope people can see how much fun we are having and how special a place WDW is to us!


Aww....love the opening show at Magic Kingdom.:cloud9: It really is such a magical way to start the day!!:thumbsup2

That cinnamon roll looks delish!! YUM!! No wonder Dan was sad he had to split it.:rotfl:

What great pictures of you and your DH!! We never think to get pictures of just the two of us in the parks.:confused3

Stitch is so funny!! Great pics w/ the boys!!!It looks like they had a great time with him!;) We were very happy to see Buzz in August but we were sad we missed Stitch.:sad2: He's one of the boys favorites. Hopefully, we will catch him next visit.:goodvibes

Hmmm....I wonder what the surprise is.popcorn::

I really love the pics of Jeff and I with the castle in the background. We took so few pictures of us last trip that we really made sure we got some good ones this time.

We were lucky enough to see Stitch at AK as well as at MK. (And at our 'Ohana breakfast!) He is really a lot of fun...very playful!

[Tnkrbelle565]

Oh that segment is getting me so excited for my trip!!! :banana: Thank you!!!

Do you know that I just found out in February that you could have breakfast at Main St Bakery...you better believe that we will be eating there again this trip!

What a great beginning to the day! Can't wait to find out about your surprise!

[ptdealer]

aaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! !!!:scared1:................oh hi guys::surfweb:
i am soooooooooo bizzy:laundy:

[ptdealer]

:3dglasses:santa::love::laughing::cutie::banana::c onfused3:lovestruc:headache::teacher::mad::yay::wo ohoo::hug::eek::cloud9::scared1::littleangel::snoo ty::cheer2::laundy::rolleyes::teacher::idea::dance 3::bride::rolleyes1:confused::santa:popcorn:

[BippityBoo]

Awww man! I want to know about the surprise!!

Also, I loved this update. We can not WAIT to go to the opening show (missed it last time) Looks wonderful :cloud9:

Also, Main Street bakery looks fab. Another one we are going to try. How did you find the lines there first thing in the morning? Did you have trouble when you rode your 1st attraction (meaning should you have skipped breakfast to beat the crowd)? We are worried about that if we stop to eat at the bakery.

How did you make your matching shirts? They are awesome :thumbsup2 I am trying to make lots of ours to save money. I bought some iron ons to add to some t shirts. I like yours though!!

Your boys look so sweet! Can't wait to hear about the rest of the day :woohoo:

[mommytothreeboys]

Oh that segment is getting me so excited for my trip!!! :banana: Thank you!!!

Do you know that I just found out in February that you could have breakfast at Main St Bakery...you better believe that we will be eating there again this trip!

What a great beginning to the day! Can't wait to find out about your surprise!

We'll definitely go back to the bakery...so YUMMY!! :)

aaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! !!!:scared1:................oh hi guys::surfweb:
i am soooooooooo bizzy:laundy:

:3dglasses:santa::love::laughing::cutie::banana::c onfused3:lovestruc:headache::teacher::mad::yay::wo ohoo::hug::eek::cloud9::scared1:


OK....what's with all the smileys? :confused3

Awww man! I want to know about the surprise!!

Also, I loved this update. We can not WAIT to go to the opening show (missed it last time) Looks wonderful :cloud9:

Also, Main Street bakery looks fab. Another one we are going to try. How did you find the lines there first thing in the morning? Did you have trouble when you rode your 1st attraction (meaning should you have skipped breakfast to beat the crowd)? We are worried about that if we stop to eat at the bakery.

How did you make your matching shirts? They are awesome :thumbsup2 I am trying to make lots of ours to save money. I bought some iron ons to add to some t shirts. I like yours though!!

Your boys look so sweet! Can't wait to hear about the rest of the day :woohoo:

The line for the bakery was not really that bad. But...we were there fairly early. Opening was at 9 and we were eating by 9:20. (And we had stopped to see Pinocchio) We had already done one MK day, so this day was definitely more laid back. Even with the stop at the bakery, the photos on the bridge, and the meet and greet with Pinocchio, we were on and off the Buzz ride by 9:45.

I went on the DISign boards and had the design made, then I just used transfer paper to put them on the t-shirts.....so EASY!! And the DISign boards have a TON of choices! Good luck! :thumbsup2

[BippityBoo]

We'll definitely go back to the bakery...so YUMMY!! :)





OK....what's with all the smileys? :confused3



The line for the bakery was not really that bad. But...we were there fairly early. Opening was at 9 and we were eating by 9:20. (And we had stopped to see Pinocchio) We had already done one MK day, so this day was definitely more laid back. Even with the stop at the bakery, the photos on the bridge, and the meet and greet with Pinocchio, we were on and off the Buzz ride by 9:45.

I went on the DISign boards and had the design made, then I just used transfer paper to put them on the t-shirts.....so EASY!! And the DISign boards have a TON of choices! Good luck! :thumbsup2

Thank you!! I will have to check that out. Is transfer paper used in a regualr home printer?

That is exactly what we are going to do. The first MK day, we will be eating breakfast in our room and then going straight to the rides. Our second MK day, we are going to relax and hit up the bakery...followed by Tomorrowland...great minds think alike!! :rotfl:

[longing2Batdisney]

I love the pictures of you and Jeff! great shots!! the boys are so cute with Stitch! I love the Buzz Lightyear ride, too! I can't get a decent score to save mylife either but it is soooo much fun!!!
wonderful morning to start!! and I will have to remember the bakery our next trip...I had read to stop and pick up some cinnamon rolls on your way out of the park for breakfast the next morning...which we did not make last visit. but, I think it will be a MUST do on the next trip!!

keep it coming...lovin' traveling w/ya'll lots of fun
and wishin' I was there....
:wave2:Connie

[ladybugmom]

Awww man!! You left us hanging!! GREAT update! You got some fabulous PP pics!! I just love your family pic with Pinnochio and the pics of the boys meeting Stitch--priceless!!

[KathyRN137]

Hi Missy!

What a perfect morning so far... sounds like it's gonna be a long day. What do you think? Three, maybe four more posts worth? :goodvibes

Bakery pix made my mouth water...

How about a close-up of that cute shirt design?


Kathy

[mickeystoontown]

Holy smokes Missy! I missed two updates!:eek:

Let's see:

1) You know how we are always talking about how Isaiah and Hunter would get along great? Well, Hunter has recently decided he loves sports cars too and really enjoyed looking at all the cars at the end of Test Track. And, then, later in your report, you said Isaiah came back from getting a churro and made the dry wit remark about being tired from walking all the way from Mexico to Germany. That is soooo something Hunter would do. I swear those boys are kindred spirits.:rotfl:

2) I brought glow sticks to Disney this year but forgot to put them in the backpack. :confused3

3) Your Illuminations pictures are great! I can never get my fireworks pictures to turn out worth a hoot.

4) The opening show at the Magic Kingdom is a fantastic way to start off a day at the Magic Kingdom. However, we usually miss it by a few minutes but when we have seen it, I am always envy the family of the day.

5) You have now convinced me that we need to stop at Main Street Bakery. In all of my trips to the Magic Kingdom, we have never eaten anything from the bakery. We comment on how good it smells but never stop. Gotta change that!

6) Your photopass pictures of just you and the hubby are great! If you are like me, you never have pictures of just you and your husband so it's nice to get one done by a professional in the happiest place on earth. Heck, I am usually not even in a picture since I am usually the photographer in our bunch.

7) I would love to see a close-up picture of your t-shirt designs.

8) I agree with ya'll on Buzz Lightyear......it's still one of our favorites. Have to do it at least twice each trip.

Hum....I am sure there was something else I wanted to comment on but that's all I can come up with right now.

Oh, I know......can't wait to see what the surprise is!

[khertz]

I have never seen the opening show at Magic Kingdom, but we are hoping to this year. Just seeing your pictures gave me goosebumps!

Love the pictures of you & Jeff, those came out great! Even the one Jonah took, and I know how crazy pictures can come out when you hand the camera over to a kid. :rotfl: And all the ones with Stitch were nice too. How great that y'all had him all to yourself!

I might have to employ your method for making matching shirts, because DH seems to think it's a totally ridiculous idea! :laughing: I really just wanted a shirt for us to all wear to the MVMCP but you would think I was asking him for us to dress alike all 10 days! Maybe if I just make one, he'll see it isn't quite as horrifying as he is imagining and go along with it. :confused3

Looking forward to seeing what the SURPRISE is!!

[littlezar]

Not sure how I missed 4 updates - sorry this is so long because of that!

You had asked me if I had gotten a pic of my oldest in the phone booth (in the UK) pretending to talk on his cell ~ yep, sure did and then I included it in his book I made on Shutterfly. I’ve done the books for my oldest 3 but still have to do one for the baby yet.

From Typhoon Lagoon update:

Cute idea about the tattoo’s! Love the Crush N Gusher pics! Those are great!

The Shark Reef sounds great and how sweet that Isaiah was worried about Jonah! Too funny to read on and see that Jeff’s issue was his mustache!

Not a huge fan of wave pools. I’m pretty sure there’s some unwritten law that if you’re the slightest bit apprehensive about the wave pool, you’ll be the one bowled over!

LOL @ the ”major wedgies” from Humunga Kowabunga!

From Epcot update:

Strawberry Shortcake looks divine!

Fun fountain pics!

From Test Track update:

Love Test Track! My absolute fave at Epcot! My boys (including the hubby) love checking out the cars at the end and of course, we had to take pics in some of them!

I won’t attempt Mission Space – one of the few things I refuse and it’s because I’m afraid I’d flip out from feeling closed in!

LOL @ Isaiah’s comment about his long walk from Mexico to Germany!

Love the last pic from Illuminations! So cool to see all the little specks of color!

From MK Day 2 update:

Yummy bakery pics!

Nice pics of you & Jeff! I’m always the one taking pics and hardly ever get in them, let alone have one of just me & DH! Love the matching shirts ~ we did the matching tie dye Mickeys on our MK day.

How fun to have all the time & pics with Stitch!

[Sunset Cliffs]

I got behind by a couple of updates, but now I'm caught up. That photo of the fireworks is amazing! So clear and colorful. And the glow sticks at night are fun. There is something about being in the parks after dark.

The comment about Dan's gansta hat made me LOL. How is he adjusting to high school? Since I work at a high school, I always wonder how the incoming freshman are feeling in this crazy, new world.

[mommytothreeboys]

Thank you!! I will have to check that out. Is transfer paper used in a regualr home printer?

That is exactly what we are going to do. The first MK day, we will be eating breakfast in our room and then going straight to the rides. Our second MK day, we are going to relax and hit up the bakery...followed by Tomorrowland...great minds think alike!! :rotfl:

Yep! I just bought transfer paper at Michael's and used it in my home printer. It really worked great and was very easy.

That MK plan worked really well for us! We also had an EMH night which made us feel more relaxed..knowing we'd have some extra time.

I love the pictures of you and Jeff! great shots!! the boys are so cute with Stitch! I love the Buzz Lightyear ride, too! I can't get a decent score to save mylife either but it is soooo much fun!!!
wonderful morning to start!! and I will have to remember the bakery our next trip...I had read to stop and pick up some cinnamon rolls on your way out of the park for breakfast the next morning...which we did not make last visit. but, I think it will be a MUST do on the next trip!!

keep it coming...lovin' traveling w/ya'll lots of fun
and wishin' I was there....
:wave2:Connie

I get so frustrated by my silly score on that game! But I keep going on it! I didn't try the cinnamon roll from the bakery, but the turnovers were fabulous! :thumbsup2

Awww man!! You left us hanging!! GREAT update! You got some fabulous PP pics!! I just love your family pic with Pinnochio and the pics of the boys meeting Stitch--priceless!!

Thanks Becky! We have a family pic with Pinocchio from our 2007 trip too...with everyone but me. I'm glad I made it in this time!

Hi Missy!

What a perfect morning so far... sounds like it's gonna be a long day. What do you think? Three, maybe four more posts worth? :goodvibes

Bakery pix made my mouth water...

How about a close-up of that cute shirt design?


Kathy

Oh yeah...at least three or four posts! It was a long day! ;)

I'll post a close up of the shirt after these replies!

Holy smokes Missy! I missed two updates!:eek:

Let's see:

1) You know how we are always talking about how Isaiah and Hunter would get along great? Well, Hunter has recently decided he loves sports cars too and really enjoyed looking at all the cars at the end of Test Track. And, then, later in your report, you said Isaiah came back from getting a churro and made the dry wit remark about being tired from walking all the way from Mexico to Germany. That is soooo something Hunter would do. I swear those boys are kindred spirits.:rotfl:

We need to have a DIS meet so our boys can meet!

2) I brought glow sticks to Disney this year but forgot to put them in the backpack. :confused3

I would totally do something like that!

3) Your Illuminations pictures are great! I can never get my fireworks pictures to turn out worth a hoot.

Mine are usually terrible as well..I just got lucky with one or two this time.

4) The opening show at the Magic Kingdom is a fantastic way to start off a day at the Magic Kingdom. However, we usually miss it by a few minutes but when we have seen it, I am always envy the family of the day.

Give me a little confetti and some one-on-one with the Mouse and I'd be a happy girl!

5) You have now convinced me that we need to stop at Main Street Bakery. In all of my trips to the Magic Kingdom, we have never eaten anything from the bakery. We comment on how good it smells but never stop. Gotta change that!

DEFINITELY! :)

6) Your photopass pictures of just you and the hubby are great! If you are like me, you never have pictures of just you and your husband so it's nice to get one done by a professional in the happiest place on earth. Heck, I am usually not even in a picture since I am usually the photographer in our bunch.

I usually am too so this trip I made a conscious effort to get out from BEHIND the camera!

7) I would love to see a close-up picture of your t-shirt designs.

8) I agree with ya'll on Buzz Lightyear......it's still one of our favorites. Have to do it at least twice each trip.

:thumbsup2

Hum....I am sure there was something else I wanted to comment on but that's all I can come up with right now.

Oh, I know......can't wait to see what the surprise is!


Stay tuned!

I have never seen the opening show at Magic Kingdom, but we are hoping to this year. Just seeing your pictures gave me goosebumps!

Love the pictures of you & Jeff, those came out great! Even the one Jonah took, and I know how crazy pictures can come out when you hand the camera over to a kid. :rotfl: And all the ones with Stitch were nice too. How great that y'all had him all to yourself!

I might have to employ your method for making matching shirts, because DH seems to think it's a totally ridiculous idea! :laughing: I really just wanted a shirt for us to all wear to the MVMCP but you would think I was asking him for us to dress alike all 10 days! Maybe if I just make one, he'll see it isn't quite as horrifying as he is imagining and go along with it. :confused3

Looking forward to seeing what the SURPRISE is!!

I fully expected to just make a shirt for me, but then the boys wanted one and Jeff said he certainly was not going to be the odd man out! I was surprised...but THRILLED!!

Not sure how I missed 4 updates - sorry this is so long because of that!

You had asked me if I had gotten a pic of my oldest in the phone booth (in the UK) pretending to talk on his cell ~ yep, sure did and then I included it in his book I made on Shutterfly. I’ve done the books for my oldest 3 but still have to do one for the baby yet.

From Typhoon Lagoon update:

Cute idea about the tattoo’s! Love the Crush N Gusher pics! Those are great!

The Shark Reef sounds great and how sweet that Isaiah was worried about Jonah! Too funny to read on and see that Jeff’s issue was his mustache!

Not a huge fan of wave pools. I’m pretty sure there’s some unwritten law that if you’re the slightest bit apprehensive about the wave pool, you’ll be the one bowled over!

LOL @ the ”major wedgies” from Humunga Kowabunga!

From Epcot update:

Strawberry Shortcake looks divine!

Fun fountain pics!

From Test Track update:

Love Test Track! My absolute fave at Epcot! My boys (including the hubby) love checking out the cars at the end and of course, we had to take pics in some of them!

I won’t attempt Mission Space – one of the few things I refuse and it’s because I’m afraid I’d flip out from feeling closed in!

LOL @ Isaiah’s comment about his long walk from Mexico to Germany!

Love the last pic from Illuminations! So cool to see all the little specks of color!

From MK Day 2 update:

Yummy bakery pics!

Nice pics of you & Jeff! I’m always the one taking pics and hardly ever get in them, let alone have one of just me & DH! Love the matching shirts ~ we did the matching tie dye Mickeys on our MK day.

How fun to have all the time & pics with Stitch!

I have a friend who tried MS not knowing exactly what it was and she really had a hard time with the closed-in feeling. You're probably better off enjoying the people-watching and a Mickey bar while you wait for everyone else!

I'd love to do the tie-dye shirts next trip...I'll have to remember to consult you for advice!

I got behind by a couple of updates, but now I'm caught up. That photo of the fireworks is amazing! So clear and colorful. And the glow sticks at night are fun. There is something about being in the parks after dark.

The comment about Dan's gansta hat made me LOL. How is he adjusting to high school? Since I work at a high school, I always wonder how the incoming freshman are feeling in this crazy, new world.

I never noticed how his hat was in that pic until I posted it on my TR! :rotfl:

He's doing well...he's VERY busy, but doing well. He's involved in A LOT..almost too much I think, but so far so good! He is playing JV volleyball, singing in a special musical group, performing in the school musical....all on top of his regular school work. We'll see how it all goes! :confused3

[mommytothreeboys]

Okay folks....here is an up-close look at the matching t-shirt design.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/autographbooksandt-shirt002.jpg

The boys had gray t-shirts and Jeff and I got the white baseball-type shirts with gray sleeves. They turned out really cute...I think I have a better pic of all of us wearing them coming up soon! :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

I really loved how your baseball shirt came out! You all look fabulous in your matchy shirts. :goodvibes

What a wonderful morning! Stitch is always so much fun, isn't he? :thumbsup2

Ohhhhh - a surprise! :banana:

[mickeystoontown]

I liked the t-shirts from far away and absolutely love them up close. They are adorable!

[mommytothreeboys]

I really loved how your baseball shirt came out! You all look fabulous in your matchy shirts. :goodvibes

What a wonderful morning! Stitch is always so much fun, isn't he? :thumbsup2

Ohhhhh - a surprise! :banana:

Stitch really was so fun! We were able to see him several times and although we already had pics and autographs, my boys wanted to stop each time!

I really didn't want an all white t-shirt so I liked how the baseball tee was a good compromise!

I liked the t-shirts from far away and absolutely love them up close. They are adorable!

Thank you! The DISigners on the DISign boards are really amazing!

[mommytothreeboys]

When I left off we were headed to Fantasyland after having spent some time with a certain troublesome blue alien. Our destination was those crazy teacups! As most of you know by now, I don’t do the teacups. Me and spinning are not good friends, so I avoid this ride like the plague! My boys love it though, so off we went to give it a spin….LOL! Ok…that was bad, sorry. :rolleyes:

As we approached the ride, we saw something we had never seen before……….



ALICE and the White Rabbit!! Outside of a parade, we had never seen Alice before so this was a great surprise! There was little or no line to meet and greet so the boys got out their autograph books and waited a very short time for their turn. I don’t think my boys have ever seen the movie, but they do know the characters. They all got a kick out of Alice’s accent….and she was very playful and spent a lot of time interacting with them. You would not believe the number of people who walked by and asked who the characters were….they had no idea! SAD. Here are some pics I took of our surprise meet and greet!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200936.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200935.jpg

I love this one! I’m not sure what was happening, but Jonah was giggling!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200934.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200933.jpg

I love the little unexpected things that happen at Disney! Stumbling upon these characters was a great treat. My boys enjoy meeting the characters, but we rarely spend a lot of time standing in line in the formal meet and greet areas ,so finding Alice out and about was a nice little surprise!

On to the Tea Party! Jeff is a sport and rides with the boys….I man the camera!::yes::

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200932.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200931.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200930.jpg

The boys really like those teacups….to each their own I suppose! We had done most of the rides in Fantasyland ( except Dumbo which we hoped to ride during EMH and Pooh which my boys just had no interest in) so it was off to see if we could meet some Fairies in Toontown! Now, like I said earlier, we don’t usually spend time standing in line at the formal meet and greets….but this was TINK and she is my FAVORITE! So I at least wanted to see what the wait times were. We headed in the direction of Toontown and stopped to take these Photopass pics. These are my favorite pictures of this trip!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image144.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image145.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image146.jpg

As we entered Toontown we saw a face painting booth. Jonah had been asking all week to get his face painted so we went over to check it out. The prices really weren’t outrageous so he decided to use some of his souvenir money to get his face painted. I thought this was a great decision….he had thought it out all week and really wanted to do it, so he hopped up in the chair and told the girl he wanted to be a PIRATE!! Those face painting CM’s are FAST!!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200929.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200928.jpg

She did a fantastic job and Jonah looked so cute! Here is the finished product!

One with a smile.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200927.jpg

Now show us your Pirate face!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200926.jpg

Jonah was so pleased with his face painting! I think it cost $12 and was worth every penny. He got LOTS of attention from both CM’s and characters (as you will hear about later)! You’ll also see that it lasted the entire day…we got it done around 11:30 am and we took a pool break and did evening EMH. NOT BAD!

While Jonah was getting his Pirate on :rotfl:, the older boys went to ride Goofy’s Barnstormer. Now this is a very tame ride for them, but they figured it was better than hanging out watching their brother get his face painted. While we waited for them to get off the ride, Jonah played in Donald’s boat for a bit. The last time we were here, the water was not working so it was fun to enjoy a little cooling off fun this time!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200925.jpg

Just hanging out!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200923.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200922.jpg

The boys got off of the ride and joined us at the boat. Jonah wanted to ride now, so Isaiah agreed to take him on again. Dan opted out this time! Jeff and I decided that it would be a good time to sneak a ride around the park on the train. Now….don’t freak out. We don’t normally ditch the children in amusement parks and leave them alone. However, they were in line for one ride which we knew would take a certain amount of time, Isaiah had a cell phone, and he is 12 years old. We let him know what we were doing and where to meet us when he got off the rollercoaster and we set out for the train. We thought we might get a nice romantic ride, just the two of us….but Dan decided to join us. He sat in a different car though so we did get to enjoy some alone time! I took a few pictures as we circled the park.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200924.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200921.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200920.jpg

We called Isaiah just as we were pulling out of the Frontierland station and let him know where we were. They were just getting off the ride, so we told them to meet us in front of Donald’s boat. As we exited the train, we watched for Dan to get off as well. We watched, and watched, and watched….NO DAN! Oh no….did he get off at a different stop…where was he?? We scanned the train and saw Dan in a car near the front……SOUND ASLEEP!! No lie! We yelled to him and startled him awake so he could get off the train before it pulled out of the Toontown station. Too funny!

If you’ll remember…I hinted at the fact that Dan had not been making the best food choices all week. He opted for soda over water or juice, sweets over fruit, etc. We kept telling him it would all catch up and sure enough we were right! Dan just doesn’t have the same ability as the rest of the boys to push, push, push. On our 2007 vacation, Jeff ended up having to take him back to POR on our Spectro night because he just couldn’t do anymore. He gets tired and worn down, add to that poor food choices during the week, and Dan is just done! This falling asleep on the train episode was just a hint at what we were in for later in the day. Stay tuned….that’s a whole other story! :rolleyes:

With the whole family back together we decided to skip Mickey’s and Minnie’s houses and head right into the Toontown Fair tent to see if we could get an audience with some fairies. It was just about noon…did we get to see TINK??? :tinker:

[mom2mek]

Those are some GREAT pics, Missy! Christmas card material right there! :thumbsup2

I can't believe people wouldn't know who the Alice in WOnderland characters were! Weird. :confused3

The face painting is adorable! We have never done that but it's always a big hit with my crowd whenever we go somewhere else, so I think they would love it at Disney!! It's on the list for next time - either in the MK or at the AK!

Too funny (and a little scary) that Dan fell asleep on the train! Glad you were able to find him AND wake him up before it left!

Hmmm....Tink at noon.....:eek:

popcorn::

Sara

[mickeystoontown]

Very cool that you happened upon Alice and the White Rabbit. I've seen Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee and the Queen of Hearts there before but never Alice and the White Rabbit.

I think the photopass pictures in from of my sign (Mickeystoontown :laughing:) are great. I've never seen a photopass photographer there.

The pirate face painting is super cool. My favorite pic is the one of Jonah doing the pirate face.

Every time I see Donald's Boat, I think about the time Hunter was about 3 and was on the verge of pitching a fit when he had to leave. One of those "Mama" looks and the fit pitching was halted. He was having so much fun playing in the water with the other kids.

I can not believe that you would have left your kids all alone! Absolutely horrible of you. NOT! Isaiah seems to have a really good head on his shoulders and he knows the Disney World ropes. There's no way he would have gotten lost or let his little brother get lost. I would done the same thing.

Poor Dan...falling asleep on the train. He's just tired and worn out from going going going.

Waiting to see if you get to meet my favorite fairy!

[Tnkrbelle565]

I've always joked that after so much walking around WDW that I could fall asleep on that train ride! Glad to know that I won't be the first if I did!!! How scary for you guys!!!

[carissanboys]

We've seen Alice in the parks (right in that spot too), but my boys never want to stop for the girls. :sad2:

I love pirate face!! :love: That is a really cool one to pick. Haven't seen it before. :thumbsup2

How nice to get a quiet, romantic train ride around MK. :cloud9:

[Angies1274]

Yay!! :yay: for seeing Alice and the White Rabbit!!! My boys haven't seen the movie either but they definitely know who the characters are and would have loved their autograph!!:thumbsup2 What a nice surprise!!;)

I'm so with you on the teacups!!:sick: But, I never seem to learn my lesson and keep trying them anyways.:laughing:

Great photopass pictures in front of the Toontown sign!! and Jonah's pirate face is so cool!!! We will have to look for one of those face painting booths on our next trip!! I was telling the boys the other day about the cool things they will do at the Main Street Barber Shop and they are both soooo excited to give it a try. I just know they would love the face painting as well!!:thumbsup2

That's so great that you and your DH got to take a nice romantic ride around the park.:goodvibes But....OH NO!!:scared1: about Dan falling asleep! Glad that he woke up and got off the train before it started going again. We had something similar happen on our trip...but just the opposite...my parent's got off the train when they weren't supposed to.:rolleyes1

Okay, I'm so excited!!! I can't wait to find out if you get to meet Tink!!!popcorn::

[littlezar]

I totally don't do the teacups either! Loved it as a kid (and any other spinning ones) but as an adult, the only "spinny" ride I'm good with is the carousel!

Love that your boys interact with whatever characters are around! Sad that some people don't know Alice in Wonderland!

Great photopass pics!

Tell Jonah he picked out a great design to have painted on his face! He looks way too cool!

Glad ya found Dan and were able to wake him up before the train took off! Yikes!

[ladybugmom]

GREAT update!! We met that same Alice in that same spot on our trip!! (minus the White Rabbit) Who comes to Disney and doesn't know who those characters are?!?! :confused3 It's a CLASSIC!! Love the face painting--it looks AMAZING!! And I certainly hope you got to meet Tink but I do know that noon is not such a great time for lines! Oooh--you MUST update soon!! :goodvibes

[mommytothreeboys]

Those are some GREAT pics, Missy! Christmas card material right there!

Thanks!

I can't believe people wouldn't know who the Alice in WOnderland characters were! Weird. :confused3

I know...it was crazy! And it wasn't just one or two...I heard it over and over again! :sad2:

The face painting is adorable! We have never done that but it's always a big hit with my crowd whenever we go somewhere else, so I think they would love it at Disney!! It's on the list for next time - either in the MK or at the AK!

I'm glad we made him wait to be sure he really wanted to spend the money...but he talked about it all week and was so excited!

Too funny (and a little scary) that Dan fell asleep on the train! Glad you were able to find him AND wake him up before it left!

Hmmm....Tink at noon.....:eek:


Sara

Yeah...he's 14 so I wasn't overly worried, but it was a little upsetting when I didn't see him get off the train right away!

Very cool that you happened upon Alice and the White Rabbit. I've seen Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee and the Queen of Hearts there before but never Alice and the White Rabbit.

I haven't seen Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee since I went as a teenager!!

I think the photopass pictures in from of my sign (Mickeystoontown ) are great. I've never seen a photopass photographer there.

He was all alone just standing there..I think the pics are awesome. I just wish we had thought to take off our park gear so you could see the shirts better!

The pirate face painting is super cool. My favorite pic is the one of Jonah doing the pirate face.

I love that one too!

Every time I see Donald's Boat, I think about the time Hunter was about 3 and was on the verge of pitching a fit when he had to leave. One of those "Mama" looks and the fit pitching was halted. He was having so much fun playing in the water with the other kids.

I think we all have that "look"!

I can not believe that you would have left your kids all alone! Absolutely horrible of you. NOT! Isaiah seems to have a really good head on his shoulders and he knows the Disney World ropes. There's no way he would have gotten lost or let his little brother get lost. I would done the same thing.

Now I know that not all 12 year olds would be okay doing this, but I really felt good about leaving Isaiah. I know what he can handle and the fact that he had a phone in case he needed to call really put my mind at ease. I don't think I would give them the freedom to just wander the park, but to be in line for one ride and meet me after...I felt safe leaving them. I guess every kid is different and you just have to know your kids....thanks for the confirmation that I'm not a horrible mom! I appreciate that!! :)

Poor Dan...falling asleep on the train. He's just tired and worn out from going going going.

Dan just stops going after a certain point! :rotfl:

Waiting to see if you get to meet my favorite fairy!

We'll see!

I've always joked that after so much walking around WDW that I could fall asleep on that train ride! Glad to know that I won't be the first if I did!!! How scary for you guys!!!

It freaked me out more than anything....I couldn't wrap my head around why he would get off! We told him we were just doing the loop! And of course all those thoughts went through my head in a matter of about 2 seconds!

We've seen Alice in the parks (right in that spot too), but my boys never want to stop for the girls.

LOL! Mine aren't too keen on princesses, but they thought Alice was funny. :laughing:

I love pirate face!! :love: That is a really cool one to pick. Haven't seen it before.

I thought he made an adorable little pirate!

How nice to get a quiet, romantic train ride around MK. :cloud9:

It really was nice!

Yay!! :yay: for seeing Alice and the White Rabbit!!! My boys haven't seen the movie either but they definitely know who the characters are and would have loved their autograph!!:thumbsup2 What a nice surprise!!;)

I'm so with you on the teacups!!:sick: But, I never seem to learn my lesson and keep trying them anyways.:laughing:

LOL! Not me....I rode some spinning apple ride at a carnival once and nearly lost my cookies. NO MORE!

Great photopass pictures in front of the Toontown sign!! and Jonah's pirate face is so cool!!! We will have to look for one of those face painting booths on our next trip!! I was telling the boys the other day about the cool things they will do at the Main Street Barber Shop and they are both soooo excited to give it a try. I just know they would love the face painting as well!!:thumbsup2

Isaiah and Jonah both enjoyed the Barber Shop! They have the face painting places in several places around the MK and AK. I'm not sure about the other parks, but I definitely saw them in those two.


That's so great that you and your DH got to take a nice romantic ride around the park.:goodvibes But....OH NO!!:scared1: about Dan falling asleep! Glad that he woke up and got off the train before it started going again. We had something similar happen on our trip...but just the opposite...my parent's got off the train when they weren't supposed to.:rolleyes1

That kid just laid his head back and went to sleep! I probably could have left him there for an hour or so just making the park loop over and over! :laughing:

Okay, I'm so excited!!! I can't wait to find out if you get to meet Tink!!!popcorn::

Stay tuned! :cutie:

I totally don't do the teacups either! Loved it as a kid (and any other spinning ones) but as an adult, the only "spinny" ride I'm good with is the carousel!

I can do the carousel...but it still makes me nervous!

Love that your boys interact with whatever characters are around! Sad that some people don't know Alice in Wonderland!

I was really surprised at how many people were clueless! :rolleyes:

Great photopass pics!

Thanks!

Tell Jonah he picked out a great design to have painted on his face! He looks way too cool!

I liked it too...he's a cute pirate! pirate:

Glad ya found Dan and were able to wake him up before the train took off! Yikes!

Wake up DAN!!!! :scared1:

GREAT update!! We met that same Alice in that same spot on our trip!! (minus the White Rabbit) Who comes to Disney and doesn't know who those characters are?!?! :confused3 It's a CLASSIC!! Love the face painting--it looks AMAZING!! And I certainly hope you got to meet Tink but I do know that noon is not such a great time for lines! Oooh--you MUST update soon!! :goodvibes

Jonah was so excited about that face painting...and they did a fantastic job! They must get really good at doing the offered designs because they get fast too!

[MagicShell]

Your last two updates are my favorites. I love the Magic Kingdom. I could spend all my Disney time there and be very happy. We saw the opening show for the first time last year, and I loved it. We leave for WDW in two weeks from today and my husband can't wait to get a cherry turnover from the Main Street Bakery. If I show him your picture, he will really be craving one.

We have never met Alice and we tried to find her last year. My then 12 yr. old daughter really wanted to meet her. So, I booked breakfast with her for this year. I hope it works out and she gets to meet her.

I wonder how long Dan would have ridden the train if you had not called him.:rotfl:

[Planning fanatic mom]

Another great update!!

I love the pirate face painting. :lovestruc That is probably the best I have seen. Jonah was so smart to use his money for that. What a memory and you have great pics to share. You could frame one for his b-day or christmas.

It wouldn't have occurred to me to take that ride on the train. What a great idea. :banana:

I'm sorry Dan is about to hit the wall. In our family, it is me that hits the wall.

Can't wait for more.popcorn::

[longing2Batdisney]

Cool morning!!! seeing Alice & the White rabbit:thumbsup2 (even Ashton knows who they are:confused3 how can people not know them!), the pirate face painting came out great!!!pirate: that is too funny about Dan on the train!!
poor kid...WDW wearing it out.

I agree with you Missy the family pictures at the toonotown sign are great...too bad Dan didn't have sunglasses on:cool2: and the shirts look great all together!!

Can't wait to see if you meet Tink!! popcorn::
:wave2:

[mommytothreeboys]

Your last two updates are my favorites. I love the Magic Kingdom. I could spend all my Disney time there and be very happy. We saw the opening show for the first time last year, and I loved it. We leave for WDW in two weeks from today and my husband can't wait to get a cherry turnover from the Main Street Bakery. If I show him your picture, he will really be craving one.

Oooh....only two weeks to go? How exciting! Have your husband send me a cherry turnover from the bakery!

We have never met Alice and we tried to find her last year. My then 12 yr. old daughter really wanted to meet her. So, I booked breakfast with her for this year. I hope it works out and she gets to meet her.

Very cool! You may want to just wander by the teacups as welll...several readers said they have seen her there.

I wonder how long Dan would have ridden the train if you had not called him.:rotfl:

He probably could have had himself a nice nap and avoided the problems we had later in the day!

Another great update!!

I love the pirate face painting. :lovestruc That is probably the best I have seen. Jonah was so smart to use his money for that. What a memory and you have great pics to share. You could frame one for his b-day or christmas.

That's a great idea!

It wouldn't have occurred to me to take that ride on the train. What a great idea. :banana:

I'm sorry Dan is about to hit the wall. In our family, it is me that hits the wall.

Can't wait for more.popcorn::

Dan is really the only one of us who really can't go, go, go. He's also the one who gets sick first if there's any kind of bug out there!

Cool morning!!! seeing Alice & the White rabbit:thumbsup2 (even Ashton knows who they are:confused3 how can people not know them!), the pirate face painting came out great!!!pirate: that is too funny about Dan on the train!!
poor kid...WDW wearing it out.

We had a lot more down time on this trip...pool time, resort time, sleeping in days....I thought he'd be able to make it. But...by day 8 of our 10 day trip, it was beginning to catch up to him. :sad2:

I agree with you Missy the family pictures at the toonotown sign are great...too bad Dan didn't have sunglasses on:cool2: and the shirts look great all together!!

Dan won't wear sunglasses for some reason...he just wears that baseball cap. Silly boy. ;)

Can't wait to see if you meet Tink!! popcorn::
:wave2:

Coming up soon!

[DisMomAmy]

My DH can't do spinning or simulator rides either... he doesn't get sick sick but it throws him off for the rest of the day.

I can't believe Dan fell asleep on the train! :rotfl2:

[Sunset Cliffs]

Great update! My DH doesn't do the teacups either. It will make him sick for hours afterward. They don't bother me so I have a feeling that I will be the one on the ride and he will have the camera.

The face painting was so cool. I bet the pirate is a popular request for them.

You mentioned Dan playing volleyball earlier...that is so cool that they have a boy's program at his school. My DH is a volleyball coach (we are all a little volleyball crazy in our house) but we only have a girl's program. We hope someday they will start up the boys too.

[cdhale]

I am finally caught up on your trip report. What a great vacation! It's just making me wish I could go back now :sad1:

Last January we met Alice and the Mad Hatter at the teacups and Mad ended up riding with my mom and daughters (I too avoid spinny rides like the plague). He gave them all "Today is My Un-Birthday" buttons. Special Disney magic... I love this place! Now if I could just figure out how to post a pic...

Anyway, can't wait to read more! Thank you much for sharing.

Cheryl

[mommytothreeboys]

My DH can't do spinning or simulator rides either... he doesn't get sick sick but it throws him off for the rest of the day.

I can't believe Dan fell asleep on the train! :rotfl2:

It stinks to not be able to do those rides, because I really think they are fun. But that feeling for the rest of the day is just not worth it. :sad2:

I was a little surprised too considering it is Isaiah who is famous for his power naps all over the park!

Great update! My DH doesn't do the teacups either. It will make him sick for hours afterward. They don't bother me so I have a feeling that I will be the one on the ride and he will have the camera.


The face painting was so cool. I bet the pirate is a popular request for them.

You mentioned Dan playing volleyball earlier...that is so cool that they have a boy's program at his school. My DH is a volleyball coach (we are all a little volleyball crazy in our house) but we only have a girl's program. We hope someday they will start up the boys too.

Dan has been playing volleyball since he could be on the Modified team in 7th grade. This is his 3rd year and he really enjoys it. Most of the schools around here have a boy's program but not all. My brothers both played in college so it's kinda in the genes!

I am finally caught up on your trip report. What a great vacation! It's just making me wish I could go back now :sad1:

Last January we met Alice and the Mad Hatter at the teacups and Mad ended up riding with my mom and daughters (I too avoid spinny rides like the plague). He gave them all "Today is My Un-Birthday" buttons. Special Disney magic... I love this place! Now if I could just figure out how to post a pic...

Anyway, can't wait to read more! Thank you much for sharing.

Cheryl

Hi Cheryl and thanks for reading! Posting a picture is not so hard...feel free to PM me and I can walk you through it! :goodvibes

[funkenzie1]

hey im loving your trip report. i am not a fan of airport food either.:faint::disrocks::disrocks:

[cdhale]

Thanks for your photo help, Missy. Here is my mom and daughters on the teacups with the Mad Hatter!

http://i460.photobucket.com/albums/qq321/demmahale/DSC01263.jpg

[kate_wdw]

Missy, I'm really enjoying your trip reports!

Your boys sound so well-behaved - it's really a testament to your great parenting.

I'll be sad to see them come to an end.

[mousescrapper]

Hey Missy,

love the latest update w/ the tea cups and more....


1) the was too cute to see all 4 of your guys in 1 cup together :rotfl:

2) we LOVE seeing the AiW characters....we even saw Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in 05....I really, no we MUST see Alice next yr so Mae can get her picture w/ her in their matching dresses :goodvibes

3) AWESOME!!!!!!!! Photopass Pictures in front of the Toontown sign...especially now that Toontown will be no more :sad1:

4) Jonah is a GREAT pirate....pirate: is his favorite appetizer ARRHG-tichoke dip....sorry just had too :laughing: that face paint was amazing he sure was hamming it up for the camera.

5) the trainride wasa brillant idea and I can't believe Dan fell asleep on the train (he probably won't live that down huh?) I though Isaiah was the one who always fell asleep...hehehe

Really hoping you get to meet TINK!!!!:tinker:

Scrappie J~

[mommytothreeboys]

hey im loving your trip report. i am not a fan of airport food either.:faint::disrocks::disrocks:

Who is?? :lmao:

Thanks for your photo help, Missy. Here is my mom and daughters on the teacups with the Mad Hatter!

http://i460.photobucket.com/albums/qq321/demmahale/DSC01263.jpg

So cute!! That must have been so fun! :thumbsup2

Missy, I'm really enjoying your trip reports!

Your boys sound so well-behaved - it's really a testament to your great parenting.

I'll be sad to see them come to an end.

Thanks! They do have their moments..but WDW seems to bring out the best in them. :goodvibes


Hey Missy,

love the latest update w/ the tea cups and more....


1) the was too cute to see all 4 of your guys in 1 cup together :rotfl:

Definitely makes for a good photo op!

2) we LOVE seeing the AiW characters....we even saw Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in 05....I really, no we MUST see Alice next yr so Mae can get her picture w/ her in their matching dresses :goodvibes

That will be an adorable picture...can't wait!

3) AWESOME!!!!!!!! Photopass Pictures in front of the Toontown sign...especially now that Toontown will be no more :sad1:

I never even thought of that...great point! I'm not sure when we'll be back so it could well be gone before we get there again.

4) Jonah is a GREAT pirate....pirate: is his favorite appetizer ARRHG-tichoke dip....sorry just had too :laughing: that face paint was amazing he sure was hamming it up for the camera.

I can't even tell you how excited he was about that face painting. It was a $12 well spent! ;)

5) the trainride wasa brillant idea and I can't believe Dan fell asleep on the train (he probably won't live that down huh?) I though Isaiah was the one who always fell asleep...hehehe

I know....I wouldn't have been so surprised had it been Isaiah! :laughing:

Really hoping you get to meet TINK!!!!:tinker:

Scrappie J~

Me too! Coming up soon! popcorn::

[mommytothreeboys]

So it was about noon and Jeff and I had just taken a nice quiet train ride around the park while Dan took a nap on the train and Jonah and Isaiah rode Goofy’s Barnstormer. It was now time to head inside and see how long the wait was going to be to see the Fairies.

A little background might be appropriate here. I love TINK! I was ambivalent about meeting her at the new Pixie Hollow meet and greet for only one reason. In my head…Tinker Bell is not supposed to talk. I know she does in all the new Disney Fairies movies….but I have chosen not to see them for that reason! I love that Tink can say it all with her body language, so I was apprehensive about meeting the talking Tink. But…since I really do love her and my boys were willing to humor me and wait in line, I decided I couldn’t pass up the chance to see her in person….even if she did talk!

So….to Pixie Hollow we go! We entered the Toontown Fair tent and checked out the wait time to see Tink and her friends. I was really not expecting it to be good….it was NOON after all….on a Sunday no less. But…to my surprise the time posted was only 45 minutes. Longer than I would normally wait to see a character, but it was hot outside and cool inside, the boys were willing to wait, and I figured it was not going to get shorter….so we got in line! :banana:

All of us but Isaiah, that is. He chose to wander the huge gift shop instead of meeting the Fairies. That boy does love to shop! :rotfl:

Here are a few pics of us waiting patiently in line!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200965.jpg

Yay! I’m going to see Tink!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200964.jpg

We waited just over ½ an hour before the CM told us it was our turn! The hallway you walk down is so clever! The CM tells a story about how we need to shrink down to fairy size so there is Pixie Dust in the air….the walls sparkle with lights and the objects in the room get bigger. SO COOL!! The first fairy we see as we enter Pixie Hollow is Rosetta. Again…I have not seen any of the Disney Fairies movies so I am not familiar at all with these characters, but her interaction with the boys was great! Jeff was in charge of the camera so I could enjoy watching them. I have a TON of pics of this meet and greet so bear with me! Some are Jeff’s and some are Photopass.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image147.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image149.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image150.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image148.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200963.jpg

Next up was Tinker Bell. :tink: NO offense to the other Fairies, but this is what I waited in line for! Tink did not disappoint! She immediately noticed Jonah’s face paint and asked him if he was a pirate. She was so animated and made all the right TINK-moves and facial expressions. :thumbsup2 She also noticed the boys’ shirts and that one of the boys was missing. Good catch Tink! She asked where Isaiah was and we told her he wanted to shop instead of meet her. She was very offended and asked us to pass on the message that he was a “no good, filthy pirate who was no longer fit to be a lost boy!”. Now….like I said before, Jeff had the camera and just like with the Incredibles, he was so caught up in the interaction, he forgot to snap pictures! UGH….I kept motioning that universal “take pictures” signal, but it took a while for him to get it! :rolleyes:Oh well…we still got some great pictures and I was VERY pleased with how well Tink was done….even though she talked!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image157.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image156.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image154.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image151.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200962.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200958.jpg



These aren't the most flattering pics of me, but can you tell how excited I was? I felt like I was 7 years old again! LOL!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200957.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image167.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image165.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image163.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image160.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image159.jpg


Continued Next Post....

[mommytothreeboys]

As you can tell from the last picture…..Iridessa was the next fairy we met and she was anxious to get in on the fun! She was really beautiful and I can’t say enough about how awesome the interaction was with the boys. All the fairies were very playful and engaged both of the boys….and that’s something because I bet they don’t get a ton of boys in there!

Iridessa noticed that Jonah was a pirate and wanted to “sword fight” with him!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200955.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image171.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image172.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200954.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200956.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200953.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200952.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image174.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/Image173.jpg


This meet and greet was SO fun! We got in line just after noon and our first pic with Rosetta was at 12:45. Our last picture with Iridessa was taken at 12:52. So….in under an hour we had managed to meet all of the Fairies and have awesome interaction. Well worth it! :thumbsup2

We were getting hungry so we decided we would eat at one of our favorite places from our last trip….Cosmic Rays! We left Toontown and headed toward Tomorrowland ready for a great lunch. But first….we have to go TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!!

[Tnkrbelle565]

Oh I'm glad you decided to meet Tink...it really is fun. The CMs who play her are spot on! Our Tink had a temper tantrum when were in there and decided to refuse any more pictures. It was HILARIOUS!

[longing2Batdisney]

GREAT MEET AND GREET WITH THE FAIRIES!!! AND TINK!!!!
I love the picutre w/Dan hugging Tink!! precious!!!he looks so excited!! pixiedust:

you look so excitedthat is a great shot of you and Tink!!!

:wave:

[mickeystoontown]

What's up with the fairy on the left in the last picture? She looks scared! Maybe she was frightened by the pirate face painting.;)

I don't blame you one bit for getting all excited to see Tinkerbell. She is my absolute favorite Disney character of all time....with the exception of Mickey, of course. I have lots of Tinkerbell stuff....earrings, necklace, snowglobes, t-shirts, calendar, etc. You are one lucky woman in my opinion to have met her even if she did talk.

[mickeystoontown]

Oops, I was posting at the same time you were. Iridessa looks like she would be a fun fairy to meet. I love it when characters take the time to really interact with guests.

[Angies1274]

Yay!! for meeting Tink!!:tinker: I'm so happy that you got to meet her!!!:goodvibes I know how much you really like her.;) She's one of my favorites too!! I was a little apprehensive about watching the new Tinkerbell movie at first, but it is such a cute movie and the fact that the boys even enjoyed watching it with me, made it even better.(especially since they won't go anywhere near the princess movies.:laughing:)

Anyway, great pictures of all the interactions with the fairies. I think I'm going to try and talk my boys into checking out Pixie Hollow next trip. It looks like you all had a wonderful time there.:thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

Oh I'm glad you decided to meet Tink...it really is fun. The CMs who play her are spot on! Our Tink had a temper tantrum when were in there and decided to refuse any more pictures. It was HILARIOUS!

Too funny! The CM really did a fantastic job! I was impressed!


GREAT MEET AND GREET WITH THE FAIRIES!!! AND TINK!!!!
I love the picutre w/Dan hugging Tink!! precious!!!he looks so excited!! pixiedust:

you look so excitedthat is a great shot of you and Tink!!!

:wave:

Thanks! I really was excited....kinda silly for a 40 year old woman to be so excited about meeting a fairy! LOL!

What's up with the fairy on the left in the last picture? She looks scared! Maybe she was frightened by the pirate face painting.;)

I don't blame you one bit for getting all excited to see Tinkerbell. She is my absolute favorite Disney character of all time....with the exception of Mickey, of course. I have lots of Tinkerbell stuff....earrings, necklace, snowglobes, t-shirts, calendar, etc. You are one lucky woman in my opinion to have met her even if she did talk.

LOL! Iridessa kept jumping in that pic with Tink...really cute! And I'm really glad I decided to put the whole talking issue aside and meet her. It was so fun!

Oops, I was posting at the same time you were. Iridessa looks like she would be a fun fairy to meet. I love it when characters take the time to really interact with guests.

Me too and these Fairies were fantastic! :thumbsup2

Yay!! for meeting Tink!!:tinker: I'm so happy that you got to meet her!!!:goodvibes I know how much you really like her.;) She's one of my favorites too!! I was a little apprehensive about watching the new Tinkerbell movie at first, but it is such a cute movie and the fact that the boys even enjoyed watching it with me, made it even better.(especially since they won't go anywhere near the princess movies.:laughing:)

Anyway, great pictures of all the interactions with the fairies. I think I'm going to try and talk my boys into checking out Pixie Hollow next trip. It looks like you all had a wonderful time there.:thumbsup2

My boys were so good about it...they really understood that a lot of what we do at Disney is for them, so they were very cool about doing this for me. And I think they really ended up enjoying it! :goodvibes

[DisMomAmy]

Yay for meeting Tink!! You look so excited! I'm glad your boys let you do some girlie stuff. (Although they don't look too bored when they were hugging Tink ;))

[MagicShell]

Good for you getting to meet Tink. I am glad you enjoyed it. Your boys look like they had fun as well. Did Isaiah find lots of goodies on his shopping trip?

[cdhale]

See, now I have to add seeing the fairies of our list of things to do in January! So fun! My girls have read all the Pixie Hollow books, so they won't want to miss out on that.

And if we're healthy this year we can get it all done ;) Maybe.

[mommytothreeboys]

Yay for meeting Tink!! You look so excited! I'm glad your boys let you do some girlie stuff. (Although they don't look too bored when they were hugging Tink ;))

That's what I thought too...it looks like Dan may be enjoying that hug from Tink a little TOO much! :lmao:

Good for you getting to meet Tink. I am glad you enjoyed it. Your boys look like they had fun as well. Did Isaiah find lots of goodies on his shopping trip?

I'm not sure he bought anything...he likes to window shop! Plus...when it's his money he's spending he's a lot more picky about his purchases! ;)

See, now I have to add seeing the fairies of our list of things to do in January! So fun! My girls have read all the Pixie Hollow books, so they won't want to miss out on that.

And if we're healthy this year we can get it all done ;) Maybe.

Oh..your girls will love the Fairies! Lots of Purell should do the trick!

[hippiechicken]

I have enjoyed your trip report. It's the first one that I have ever read. I'm glad I found this area of the board.

[mom2mek]

Great updates Missy! I agree those boys look very happy to see the fairies! :rotfl: Great improv action from Tink! I too have always felt a little odd when they take a non-talking character and change it for a new and updated version.

In fact, the new Tink is not even the same "type" Tink that was originally in Peter Pan. Yes, she is still feisty, but dang..."old" Tink was downright MEAN! She tried to KILL Wendy for crying out loud! :rotfl2: Guess that would probably be a little too much for little kids greeting her in Pixie Hollow! :laughing: She ended up being nice towards the end, but she DID NOT like anyone messing with her Peter Pan!! :mad:

Sara

[mommytothreeboys]

I have enjoyed your trip report. It's the first one that I have ever read. I'm glad I found this area of the board.

Me too! :welcome: I'm glad you are enjoying my report!

Great updates Missy! I agree those boys look very happy to see the fairies! :rotfl: Great improv action from Tink! I too have always felt a little odd when they take a non-talking character and change it for a new and updated version.

In fact, the new Tink is not even the same "type" Tink that was originally in Peter Pan. Yes, she is still feisty, but dang..."old" Tink was downright MEAN! She tried to KILL Wendy for crying out loud! :rotfl2: Guess that would probably be a little too much for little kids greeting her in Pixie Hollow! :laughing: She ended up being nice towards the end, but she DID NOT like anyone messing with her Peter Pan!! :mad:

Sara

You're right Sara. She was pretty nasty wasn't she?? I guess they had to tame her a bit for a modern audience! I still like the no-talking Tink best, but it was fun meeting the new Tink too!

[Supermom3]

I've really enjoyed reading your TR even though I haven't posted yet. You have a lovely family, and seem as if you all have had a really great time so far. I can't wait for the last couple of days of your report, even though I'll be sad when it ends.

I have a question about POR. I also have a family of 5, and am wondering how the rooms were for you. Did you feel like there was enough room for everyone? Was the trundle bed comfortable? Did you have a fridge in the room? Did you like the pool? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks.

[mommytothreeboys]

I've really enjoyed reading your TR even though I haven't posted yet. You have a lovely family, and seem as if you all have had a really great time so far. I can't wait for the last couple of days of your report, even though I'll be sad when it ends.

I have a question about POR. I also have a family of 5, and am wondering how the rooms were for you. Did you feel like there was enough room for everyone? Was the trundle bed comfortable? Did you have a fridge in the room? Did you like the pool? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks.

No problem Supermom! Thanks for coming out of lurkdom!

I can only tell you our experience with POR...if anyone else wants to chime in, feel free!

We spend very little time in the room so the space issue was really a non-issue for us. My kids are too old to need naps, so I'm sure that would change things if your 3 year old would need to nap or go to bed significantly earlier than the others. We all just got up together and basically went to bed at the same time...unless one of us stayed up to read, etc...but the boys were so tired at the end of the day that the light didn't bother them. There is a refrigerator in the room...huge advantage!

We loved the main pool with the water slide as well as the quiet pools scattered throughout the resort. The main pool never seemed to be overly crowded and the hot tub was nice at the end of a long day!

My boys did not mind the trundle bed. It has a real mattress on it and sheets. My 14 year old even slept on it a night or two.

With kids the age of yours, I wouldn't hesitate to save the money and stay in one room at POR. I hope that was helpful! Feel free to PM me with any other questions you have!

[ladybugmom]

YAY!! You got to meet Tink!! And Iridessa and Rosetta! I hope the girls get to meet them next time (they got to meet Silvermist & Fawn). We loved the interaction in this meet-and-greet as well. And that was the Tink we got to meet on our trip!! Cosmic Rays=YUMMY!!!!

[mommytothreeboys]

YAY!! You got to meet Tink!! And Iridessa and Rosetta! I hope the girls get to meet them next time (they got to meet Silvermist & Fawn). We loved the interaction in this meet-and-greet as well. And that was the Tink we got to meet on our trip!! Cosmic Rays=YUMMY!!!!

Good morning Becky! I thought Tink was amazing! They do a great job of training the CMs to get the right body movements and facial expressions. I love it! That must be such a fun job!

And Cosmic Ray's is definitely YUMMY!! :thumbsup2

[Supermom3]

No problem Supermom! Thanks for coming out of lurkdom!

I can only tell you our experience with POR...if anyone else wants to chime in, feel free!

We spend very little time in the room so the space issue was really a non-issue for us. My kids are too old to need naps, so I'm sure that would change things if your 3 year old would need to nap or go to bed significantly earlier than the others. We all just got up together and basically went to bed at the same time...unless one of us stayed up to read, etc...but the boys were so tired at the end of the day that the light didn't bother them. There is a refrigerator in the room...huge advantage!

We loved the main pool with the water slide as well as the quiet pools scattered throughout the resort. The main pool never seemed to be overly crowded and the hot tub was nice at the end of a long day!

My boys did not mind the trundle bed. It has a real mattress on it and sheets. My 14 year old even slept on it a night or two.

With kids the age of yours, I wouldn't hesitate to save the money and stay in one room at POR. I hope that was helpful! Feel free to PM me with any other questions you have!

Thanks so much for the great information. It looks like a great resort, and the most affordable option for a family of 5. After all we are not in the room all that often. I have toyed with the idea of an off site condo which would give us way more space, but I think that I'd really regret not being onsite. I also love the dining plan. Thanks again for the insight.

[mousescrapper]

YAY!!! you got to meet her and it did not disappoint....I know you'l be first in line in 2014 (is it :confused3 or 2013) when the NEW fully immersed Pixie Hollow opens....I personally can't wait either. Tink is one of my favorites too :tinker:

Glad it was such a magical visit!

J-

[praisehisname]

Your fairie pictures are great! I was leary of meeting them for the same reason as you, but now I'm thinking I'd like to do it!

Denise

[mommytothreeboys]

Thanks so much for the great information. It looks like a great resort, and the most affordable option for a family of 5. After all we are not in the room all that often. I have toyed with the idea of an off site condo which would give us way more space, but I think that I'd really regret not being onsite. I also love the dining plan. Thanks again for the insight.

You are very welcome. Having a family of 5 kind of limits your options, but POR has been amazing for us. Can't wait to hear what you decide!

YAY!!! you got to meet her and it did not disappoint....I know you'l be first in line in 2014 (is it :confused3 or 2013) when the NEW fully immersed Pixie Hollow opens....I personally can't wait either. Tink is one of my favorites too :tinker:

Glad it was such a magical visit!

J-

Thanks Julie! 2014 seems so far away, but the way time flies lately it will be here before we know it! I swear I'm getting older faster and faster! :rotfl:

Your fairie pictures are great! I was leary of meeting them for the same reason as you, but now I'm thinking I'd like to do it!

Denise

You should definitely meet them. It was well worth our time and the CM's did a great job! :thumbsup2

[littlezar]

Great updates! I am really enjoying your trip report ~ love your writing and all the pics ~ I'll be sad when it ends! :goodvibes

[teacher2525]

You have given me a glimpse of my future:) we have the same families except I am 3 years behind you, I have a 6th grade son, a 4th grade son and a kindergarten son. Slight difference, my middle son suffers from generalized Anxiety Disorder and is medicated for it. Also,a kind of apple tree thing with my husband, we have our moments needless to say, but are working through it. I am enjoying your report read the whole thing from start to finish this evening:)

[longing2Batdisney]

popcorn::
:wave2:

[mommytothreeboys]

Great updates! I am really enjoying your trip report ~ love your writing and all the pics ~ I'll be sad when it ends! :goodvibes

Thanks! It's coming down to the end...only one more park day after this one. So sad! :sad2:

You have given me a glimpse of my future:) we have the same families except I am 3 years behind you, I have a 6th grade son, a 4th grade son and a kindergarten son. Slight difference, my middle son suffers from generalized Anxiety Disorder and is medicated for it. Also,a kind of apple tree thing with my husband, we have our moments needless to say, but are working through it. I am enjoying your report read the whole thing from start to finish this evening:)

Wow...that's ambitious to read it all in one night! LOL! Anxiety is a tough thing to deal with...and tough for people outside the situation to fully understand. Thanks for joining in! :thumbsup2

popcorn::
:wave2:

Uploading pics now..update soon! :yay:

[DisMomAmy]

Can't wait to hear about your last day - because that was our first day!

[mommytothreeboys]

Ugh! I just typed my update and something happened to my word processing program and it's gone!! I'll have to come back later and do it all over...gotta get Jonah on the bus now.

Oh....family update! Jonah had a birthday this past weekend so now he's 9!

I'll be back later with that update. :confused3

[mickeystoontown]

Ugh! I just typed my update and something happened to my word processing program and it's gone!! I'll have to come back later and do it all over...gotta get Jonah on the bus now.

Oh....family update! Jonah had a birthday this past weekend so now he's 9!

I'll be back later with that update. :confused3

I hate it when I have computer problems!

Give Jonah a great big ole birthday hug from Mrs. Lisa! :hug:

[longing2Batdisney]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! JONAH!!!!

hope you get your computer problems solved w/o much hassle; I hate when our computer acts up!!!

[mommytothreeboys]

After a very nice visit with Tink and her friends...and after picking Isaiah up in the gift shop!...our tummies were starting to get rumbly so we decided to head to one of our favorite lunch spots from our last trip. Cosmic Rays! As we bid good-bye to Toontown and headed toward Tomorrowland, we happened upon our favorite Space Ranger! We had not met Buzz before so we decided to ignore our bellies for a few more minutes and get in line.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200950.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200951.jpg

Then a little cooling off....
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200949.jpg

Buzz was fun, but our bellies could be silenced no longer so we made our way to Cosmic Rays for some much needed lunch! This place has a really great variety for a CS place and the older two boys headed off in search of the perfect meal. Dan got a chili dog, Isaiah got his much loved pulled pork sandwich and Jonah got the kid's chicken nuggets. Jeff and I both got the chicken and rib combo meal...a GREAT value for a CS meal! :thumbsup2 And those mashed potatoes are really delicious! We all got the chocolate cake for dessert. It was well after the normal lunch rush time, but the dining area was still fairly crowded. We found our seats and enjoyed our lunch to the stylings of the out of this world lounge singer. FUN STUFF! :woohoo:

Our touring plan for the day was very laid back. It was our second MK day and we knew we were planning to take advantage of EMH later in the evening. We had accomplished pretty much everything on our to-do list, but we weren't quite ready to head back to the resort for a swim and a rest. So...we decided to try the Carousel of Progress. Jeff and I had been on this when we visited WDW for our honeymoon, but the boys had never been on it, so we figured we'd give it a try. If nothing else, it was hot outside, but cool inside! I was fully prepared for my boys to hate it and be bored stiff. I couldn't have been more wrong! They LOVED it and were disappointed when it was over! We did have something funny happen while on the ride, though, thus my TR title! I will just copy what I wrote about it earlier in my report for those of you who are just joining.

So..we are sitting in the Carousel of Progress. This is not something we had ever been on before so we were newbies. I knew it was a Walt original and, therefore, wanted to give it a try. Beside that, we had some time to kill and it was hot so we decided if nothing else we’d be able to cool off and relax. The “show” begins and we are enjoying it! Even the boys seem to be drawn in, not bored stiff like I had feared. We had just moved to the 1940's scene when IT happened.







***ring***, ***ring***, ***ring***.....the forbidden cell phone ringing!

Here’s where it gets crazy. The man ANSWERS the phone!

“Hello?”[[pause]] “Yeah, I’m in the Carousel of Progress.,” can be heard in the ENTIRE theater! Now...IF, and that’s a big IF, I felt the need to answer my phone in an attraction, I would at least do it quietly and then tell the caller that I couldn’t talk at the moment. OH NO...not this guy. He proceeds to have a full on conversation with whoever is on the other end of the line! They make lunch plans, discuss where to meet, etc. The look on my face would have been priceless had someone captured it. Too bad we are rule followers and didn’t take flash pictures! LOL! I did not hear a single thing that the character in the show said for the 1940's decade! I’m not sure if my jaw ever really got picked up off of the floor.

Needless to say, this episode was the focus of all of our jokes for the rest of the trip. If things got tense and we needed a tension reliever, or whenever we just needed a laugh, Jeff would pull out the fake cell phone...you know, the one you make with your thumb and pinky?...and proceed to go into the whole spiel. “Hello, I’m in the Carousel of Progress. I’ll be here for about 20 more minutes....where do you want to eat lunch?” It instantly dissolved all of us into giggles! Honestly...we are still doing it! (Yes, we are easily amused!)

So, there you have it! In the end, we all really enjoyed the ride in spite of the “episode”. Isaiah was too cute when the ride ended. He said, “Aw, it’s over?” So if you are wondering, yes, kids can enjoy the classics!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200948.jpg


It was just after 2:30 and it was now time to head back toward the front of the park and catch a bus back to POR for a little rest and swimming. We walked through Fantasyland and snapped a few pictures.

Of course...the Sword in the Stone.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200947.jpg

Come on Isaiah...I don't think you're even trying!!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200946.jpg

Now that's what I'm talking about!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200945.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200944.jpg

Jeff wanted a close-up of the inscription.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200943.jpg

A nice picture of the back of the castle....I think it's just as pretty from this angle!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200942.jpg

Of course, Cinderella's fountain!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200941.jpg

And a beautiful mosaic inside the castle.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200940.jpg

Now the front! Are you with me on this little walk?

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200966.jpg

We walked down Main Street to the music of the afternoon parade. Ahhhh...so nice! We were walking pretty fast to head out of the park, but it was nice to be able to listen to the music and watch the floats again as they went by. Magic is just everywhere in this place! pixiedust:

A couple pics of the monorail as we exit.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200938.jpg

Don't those balloon decals just make you smile?!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200937.jpg

Next up...a relaxing ride back to POR and we get laughed at by a CM!!

[mommytothreeboys]

Can't wait to hear about your last day - because that was our first day!

I know!! Still a little sad that we weren't able to meet in person. :sad2:

I hate it when I have computer problems!

Give Jonah a great big ole birthday hug from Mrs. Lisa! :hug:

Ugh...me too! And this is a brand new computer. It's not the computer itself, though, it's the word processing software. Every time I try to paste something in, it crashes! Oh well...I just used a different one!

Thanks for the birthday wishes!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! JONAH!!!!

hope you get your computer problems solved w/o much hassle; I hate when our computer acts up!!!

Thanks so much for the birthday wishes for Jonah! As I type he is upstairs having a "sleep" over with friends....needless to say, not sleeping! :rolleyes1

[ladybugmom]

Brent and I both had the rib/chicken combo at Cosmic Rays!! It was sooo good and a fabulous deal!! I loved reading your Carousel of Progress story again! I just can't get over that guy answering his cell phone! CRAZY!!

[DisMomAmy]

The COP story still makes me laugh! :lmao:

[mommytothreeboys]

Brent and I both had the rib/chicken combo at Cosmic Rays!! It was sooo good and a fabulous deal!! I loved reading your Carousel of Progress story again! I just can't get over that guy answering his cell phone! CRAZY!!

We really enjoy Cosmic Ray's. The only thing we don't like is that the tables are tiny! It's tough for 5 of us to sit together.

It still amazes me that he not only answered his phone, but had a regular old conversation! Just rude!

The COP story still makes me laugh! :lmao:

Us too! To this day we still giggle! Someone's phone rang in church a few weeks ago and Jeff and I both turned to each other and burst out laughing!:rotfl:

[longing2Batdisney]

fun update!!! we love Cosmic rays too!!! to me it is the best CS!!!

love your castle pictures!!! great job!!

Ya'll have a FUN and SAFE Halloween!!! tonight
:hmghost: Connie

[mommytothreeboys]

fun update!!! we love Cosmic rays too!!! to me it is the best CS!!!

love your castle pictures!!! great job!!

Ya'll have a FUN and SAFE Halloween!!! tonight
:hmghost: Connie

Thanks Connie...you and Ashton have a fun night as well! Post pics!

I agree that Cosmic Rays is right up at the top of the CS list. I love that we can all eat what we want in one place..chicken, burgers, salads....the list goes on! YUM!:thumbsup2

[cdhale]

Your pictures are really making me want to leave... RIGHT NOW! It's rainy and cold in Baltimore today :sad1:

81 days! :banana:

[carissanboys]

Hey Missy!

Loved reading about that story again. :rotfl:

Uh oh - curious to see why you got laughed at by a CM!

Hope you guys had a wonderful Halloween. :)

[praisehisname]

Loved the pictures of the castle! :love: Mmmmm, I love Cosmic Rays, especially their chocolate cake!

Denise

[mousescrapper]

Your TR has almost come full circle now....

I almost forgot that the CoP story was from the last day.... was fun to relive it w/ you.

Can't wait to hear what funny antics you guys got into...:goodvibes

[Angies1274]

Great update!!

We haven't tried Cosmic Ray's yet. But I hear great things about it.:thumbsup2 It just seems like we are always over near Frontierland when our bellies start rumbling, so usually we just hit Pecos Bills.;)

So happy you found Buzz!! My boys were thrilled to get his autograph! We caught him first thing in the morning--so no line, which was even better!!

The pictures of Isaiah (trying?) to pull out the sword is too funny!!!:rotfl:--and all your castle pictures are just beautiful!!:cloud9:

Can't wait to read more, Missy!!popcorn::

[mickeystoontown]

Great pictures of the encounter with Buzz. And, of course, the story about the cell phone call in the middle of the Carousel of Progress is too funny!

[mom2mek]

Man, I didn't know you posted an update....must have missed that in my email notifications! Well that CoP story is just a hoot - I can totally picture your disbelief! I would have been the same! Amazing how self-absorbed some people can be! Glad you guys still laugh about that - it's what makes the trips fun to relive, right? :rotfl:

Awww....picture of the pink monorail at the end of your update....:sad1: It's retired now due to the accident in July.

Great pictures and wonderful writing....hate that it's coming to an end!

Sara

[littlezar]

All kinds of wrong - but still funny - about the Carousel of Progress! It amazes me, the amount of people that don't have the common courtesy to at least put the phone on vibrate/no sound/whatever if they feel the need to leave it on when it shouldn't be.

Love Buzz Lightyear ~ my 3 yr old wants the entire line of Toy Story toys he saw at Target for Christmas, LOL!

LOL @ Isaiah's pose with the sword in the stone!

Pretty castle pics!

[mommytothreeboys]

Your pictures are really making me want to leave... RIGHT NOW! It's rainy and cold in Baltimore today :sad1:

81 days! :banana:

I wish I could say 81 days! (Less now!) I woke up to snow on my porch this morning...only a little, but still...UGH!!

Hey Missy!

Loved reading about that story again. :rotfl:

Uh oh - curious to see why you got laughed at by a CM!

Hope you guys had a wonderful Halloween. :)

We did...working on posting a pic or two now!

Loved the pictures of the castle! :love: Mmmmm, I love Cosmic Rays, especially their chocolate cake!

Denise

mmmmmm.....chocolate cake!!! :goodvibes

Your TR has almost come full circle now....

I almost forgot that the CoP story was from the last day.... was fun to relive it w/ you.

Can't wait to hear what funny antics you guys got into...:goodvibes

Hi Julie! I'm really sad this is coming to an end..with no trip in sight I'll have to live through your new PTR!

Great update!!

We haven't tried Cosmic Ray's yet. But I hear great things about it.:thumbsup2 It just seems like we are always over near Frontierland when our bellies start rumbling, so usually we just hit Pecos Bills.;)

So happy you found Buzz!! My boys were thrilled to get his autograph! We caught him first thing in the morning--so no line, which was even better!!

The pictures of Isaiah (trying?) to pull out the sword is too funny!!!:rotfl:--and all your castle pictures are just beautiful!!:cloud9:

Can't wait to read more, Missy!!popcorn::

We didn't stand in a long line for Buzz either. The line to see him at Pixar Place in DHS was INSANE!

Great pictures of the encounter with Buzz. And, of course, the story about the cell phone call in the middle of the Carousel of Progress is too funny!

Thanks Lisa!

Man, I didn't know you posted an update....must have missed that in my email notifications! Well that CoP story is just a hoot - I can totally picture your disbelief! I would have been the same! Amazing how self-absorbed some people can be! Glad you guys still laugh about that - it's what makes the trips fun to relive, right? :rotfl:

Awww....picture of the pink monorail at the end of your update....:sad1: It's retired now due to the accident in July.

Great pictures and wonderful writing....hate that it's coming to an end!

Sara

I miss update notifications all the time..not sure what's up with that! I didn't realize that about the pink monorail..sad. :sad1:


All kinds of wrong - but still funny - about the Carousel of Progress! It amazes me, the amount of people that don't have the common courtesy to at least put the phone on vibrate/no sound/whatever if they feel the need to leave it on when it shouldn't be.

Love Buzz Lightyear ~ my 3 yr old wants the entire line of Toy Story toys he saw at Target for Christmas, LOL!

LOL @ Isaiah's pose with the sword in the stone!

Pretty castle pics!

It really did just leave my jaw on the floor...your phone has a silent setting for a reason people!

[mommytothreeboys]

I know I need to post an update and I'm working on it, I promise! Until then, here are a few pics of our Halloween fun!

Dan was a businessman/traveling salesman. He kind of stole it because it was Isaiah's costume last Halloween. But...at 14 I told him he needed to at least make an effort at a costume or he couldn't join us.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3420.jpg

Isaiah's costume was a hoot! He came up with it all on his own. He decided he wanted to be a 'bright idea', like in the cartoons when someone has a great idea and a lightbulb goes on above his head. He and Jeff worked on creating a device that would make that happen. It turned out great and was a big hit!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3419.jpg

Jonah was a mad scientist. His costume just cracked me up every time I looked at him! :lmao:

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3418.jpg

This is the group that we trick or treated with....my nephew Josh is the zombie and the other boy is our neighbor.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3421.jpg

These next few are from when we went to the pumpkin farm just up the road from our house to get our carving pumpkin. The farmer's wife always carves the giant pumpkins in cool intricate scenes. This year she did one I think you will all recognize!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3382.jpg

My handsome youngest son!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3381.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/IMG_3378.jpg

We had a beautiful night for trick-or-treating with a gorgeous harvest moon! It was chilly, but we had a great time....and got TONS of candy! :thumbsup2

I promise a trip update is coming soon...but will admit it makes me sad that it's almost over. That could be why I'm dragging my feet..... :rolleyes1

[ladybugmom]

LOVE the costumes--especially the bright idea!!! How creative! LOVE the Blue Fairy/Pinocchio pumpkin--that's impressive!! I know what you mean about not wanting to finish your TR--it IS sad when it comes to an end!

[longing2Batdisney]

Fun! Halloween update!!
What a bright idea!!! that is too cute and orginial!!! all the boys did a great job on their costumes...
:wave2:

[wide receiver]

The boys look great! Bright idea what a hoot! Your youngest looks taller/older! My how fast they grow!

[DisMomAmy]

Great costumes!! :thumbsup2

I completely understand dragging out the tail end of a trip report! :rolleyes1 That definitely happened to me this year. :sad2: But I can't wait to hear about your last day. ::yes:: (If you ever get there... ;))

[mommytothreeboys]

LOVE the costumes--especially the bright idea!!! How creative! LOVE the Blue Fairy/Pinocchio pumpkin--that's impressive!! I know what you mean about not wanting to finish your TR--it IS sad when it comes to an end!


She did a Sorcerer Mickey pumpkin too, but my camera battery died. :sad2:


Fun! Halloween update!!
What a bright idea!!! that is too cute and orginial!!! all the boys did a great job on their costumes...
:wave2:

I love that they come up with their own costumes now. It was fun to make them when they were younger, but SO much work! It's interesting to see what they come up with every year!

The boys look great! Bright idea what a hoot! Your youngest looks taller/older! My how fast they grow!

They really do grow up fast! Jonah turned 9 five days before Halloween...I can't believe my BABY is 9 years old. :sad2:

Great costumes!! :thumbsup2

I completely understand dragging out the tail end of a trip report! :rolleyes1 That definitely happened to me this year. :sad2: But I can't wait to hear about your last day. ::yes:: (If you ever get there... ;))

Thanks Amy! I WILL finish this TR! I'm too close now to give up!! :goodvibes

[Angies1274]

Great pics!!:goodvibes It looks your boys had a lot of fun on Halloween!!--and what creative costumes!! Especially the "bright idea" one--very cute!!;)

Can't wait for your next update!!popcorn::

[littlezar]

Love the creativity your boys have with their Halloween costumes!

[mousescrapper]

I
Hi Julie! I'm really sad this is coming to an end..with no trip in sight I'll have to live through your new PTR!





aww....thanks....it will be coming soon...look my ticker is almost to 1 yr! :cool1: I understnad the last days blues and you have to do it twice here on the boards....:sad1:

thanks for sharing the costumes pic's...love this :idea: and itsn't that funny we both had mad scientists ;)

[mom2mek]

Love the Halloween costumes Missy! They are all so cute and creative! :goodvibes

Take your time on the last few updates.....there's no rush....:rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

Sara

[mommytothreeboys]

Great pics!!:goodvibes It looks your boys had a lot of fun on Halloween!!--and what creative costumes!! Especially the "bright idea" one--very cute!!;)

Can't wait for your next update!!popcorn::

Thanks Angie! We did have a fun Halloween....just glad the weather held out and we didn't get snow!!

Love the creativity your boys have with their Halloween costumes!

They do a pretty good job...it's fun to see what they come up with!

aww....thanks....it will be coming soon...look my ticker is almost to 1 yr! :cool1: I understnad the last days blues and you have to do it twice here on the boards....:sad1:

thanks for sharing the costumes pic's...love this :idea: and itsn't that funny we both had mad scientists ;)

I noticed we both had mad scientists when i saw your new clip! Great minds must think alike! :thumbsup2

Love the Halloween costumes Missy! They are all so cute and creative! :goodvibes

Take your time on the last few updates.....there's no rush....:rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

Sara

Thanks Sara! I'm going to work on one now...all the pictures are set to go so I'm off to write!

[mommytothreeboys]

We were headed out of the park and on our way back to POR for a little rest and swimming. The plan was to come back to the MK to watch Spectro and enjoy evening EMH. The park was scheduled to be open till midnight so we could technically be in the park until 3 AM…..hmmm….we’ll see how that plays out!

We boarded a bus back to POR and, of course, Isaiah got a jump start on his resting!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200992.jpg

We got back to our room shortly after 4:00 and decided it would be really nice to just take a short nap. So we all got comfy and set the alarm for 5:00.…so nice to just close our eyes and rest in the nice air conditioned room! What a treat!

But….we ARE on vacation and there are lots of things to do (says the commando side of me)….so at 5:00 we pulled our lazy bottoms out of bed! OFF TO THE ARCADE!! We had received the free 30 minutes of arcade time with our room package and decide this year we were going to use it. On our 2007 trip we never even found the arcade. So off we went to play some video games! I love this picture of my boys from the back!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200991.jpg

(I should note here that Daniel did not join us on this arcade excursion. He was tired and not at all ready to get up from his nap, so we let him sleep. Remember that…and remember how he has been making poor food choices throughout the week….just a little foreshadowing of what’s to come! )

Now, I am not a big video game girl, but my boys enjoy it. I remember playing some skee ball and a few other games, but the boys used most of the 30 minutes. Jeff and I did play some Guitar Hero…if you read my PTR you know that I am a little bit of a Guitar Hero addict…so we just had to play! At one point, Jeff was finishing up his game and two teenage boys were watching. They were all smack-talking about how they could do as well as Jeff, etc, etc. So…when Jeff was finished, they stepped up and chose their song and played it on the “hard” level. LOL!! They got boo-ed off the stage in like 3 seconds! Jeff was cracking up! I didn’t take many pictures in the arcade, but here’s the one I do have!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200990.jpg

Not willing to pay for any more arcade time, after our half hour was up, we left the arcade and decided to make a quick pit stop at the concierge desk on our way back to the room. A little background here……Jeff works hard and because he’s in management, gets no overtime pay and very little gratitude for the work he does. All of his co-workers knew he was going to WDW and very much looking forward to it. The day before we left, his boss called me and told me that she wanted us to go out to a nice family dinner while we were on vacation and submit the receipt to her. So nice….like I said, Jeff feels underappreciated a lot of the time so this was a very kind and generous gesture. Obviously too late to make ADR’s, we knew we’d have to try to wing it when we got there. We had talked about it and decided we wanted to try to eat at a nice TS restaurant on our last night so we wanted to stop and see what was available. We had kind of been talking all week about where we might like to eat, so it was just a matter of what we could get on short notice. It was Sunday afternoon, and we were looking for an ADR for Monday evening. We stopped in the lobby at POR and began talking to the CM about what we needed. She asked us where we’d like to try first, and I said….Le Cellier!! Why not?? We were going to be in Epcot and ADR’s get cancelled sometimes so I figured it was worth asking, right?? She literally started laughing! HA! I knew it was a long-shot, but it can’t hurt to ask. Jeff just cracked up right along with her….and of course, after checking, there was nothing at all available at Le Cellier. Oh well…can’t win if you don’t play! Next I asked about Akershus in Norway. I was under the impression that the princesses were only on hand for breakfast, but apparently they are there for every meal. So…even though they had some times available, my boys just wouldn’t go for it. Shoot….strike two. Next up…..Biergarten in Germany. We loved our CS meal at Sommerfest in 2007 and had already had tasty frankfurters and soft pretzels for snack this trip. WOO-HOO!!! We got dinner reservations at Biergarten for 7:35 the next day! I guess the third time really is the charm!

Mission accomplished…..next up…a dip in the pool! We got back to the room to change and literally had to force Dan to get up and come to the pool with us. He was just not acting right and we thought maybe getting up and getting moving would snap him out of it. We all changed and headed for the quiet pool just outside our building. It was almost 6:00 and most of the afternoon crowd was gone. We pretty much had the pool to ourselves. Jeff snapped this picture of me on our way back to the room.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200988.jpg

Okay…so the swim didn’t snap Dan out of his funky mood. He was just not right…I could tell…mommy intuition you know. After a quick change in the room and gathering all our stuff for the park that night, we made our way to the Riverside Mill to get some dinner before going back to MK. Maybe some food is what he needs. We had not had a meal here yet, on either of our stays, so we were interested to see how we’d make out. Jeff and I ended up choosing the Make-Your-Own Pasta which was fantastic! I remember adding artichokes and mushrooms, but there were a TON of choices of veggies and either a marinara or a creamy alfredo sauce. I got the cheesecake for dessert while Jeff chose a cookie. Jonah got the kid’s spaghetti and Isaiah chose a Bacon Cheeseburger with a rice crispy treat for dessert. Dan got only orange juice. UGH…now he was complaining of a sore throat. STINK!

If any of you read my PTR, you may remember that on our 2007 trip, Daniel got sick on the night we were supposed to watch Spectro. He was more tired and run down than anything, but he is the kind of kid who just can’t push and push. At some point, he just gives out and his body says, NO MORE! That was one of those times. Jeff ended up taking him back to the resort while Jonah and Isaiah and I stayed to watch the parade. I was disappointed, but tried to hide that as I knew Dan would be upset about letting me down.

Fast Forward to this current trip. It’s happening again. Despite our best advice about choosing water or juice and eating healthier, and despite the fact that we had scheduled down time into this vacation….Dan was shutting down. And we had a very late night at MK planned…and it was our night to see Spectro. Jeff and I both decided that rather than push Dan to join us we would offer him the option of staying at the resort and going to bed. I figured it was better to just offer that option now rather than get to the MK and have to come back or push him so far that the next day would be ruined. Yes…I was disappointed….and he sensed that, but chose to stay and rest. I, again, tried to not let it show how much that bothered me. Needless to say….Dan has yet to see Spectromagic. Jeff walked him back to the room, gave him instructions about staying in the room, calling if he needed us, etc. I really expected that he would just turn on the TV and fall asleep. **sigh** One family member down, we headed off to the bus stop to go back to the MK.

We arrived on Main Street just after 8:00 pm and jumped right on the train to head to Frontierland. My last experience with watching Spectro from Main Street had taught me a lesson, so we were going to go to Liberty Square and scope out a spot. The parade was scheduled to start at 9 so it was perfect timing. By 8:30 we had our spot just in front of the Liberty Bell right next to a popcorn cart. Jeff got us some drinks and a tub of popcorn to enjoy while we waited. Jonah enjoyed trying his hand at the hula hoop!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200987.jpg

Jonah posing in front of the “Liberty Bell”…sorry about the devil eyes. I forgot to fix that before uploading it to Photobucket.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200986.jpg

Before too long, we heard the parade music and knew it was making its way down Main Street toward us.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200985.jpg

The one down side to our location was that we were on the corner so we couldn’t see the parade as it approached. The floats only came into our view as they turned the corner….it was a good spot, but I did miss seeing the whole effect of the floats coming down the street. My night pictures are never great, but here’s Spectro!

I love the look on Jonah’s face in this picture! Notice his pirate face paint held up pretty well through two meals and a trip to the pool!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200984.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200983.jpg

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http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200981.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200980.jpg

I tried to get a good one of my favorite Princess, but this was the best one I got.
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200979.jpg

Man do I love that parade!! I am a sucker for Christmas lights…they make me giddy….so combine that with Disney characters and music and I’m a happy girl! (Still sad Dan missed it, though.)

Things get fuzzy here as far as what order we did things in, but I know we went to ride Haunted Mansion next. I had been waiting all day to ride this one in the dark! Oh no….as we approached, we saw that it was temporarily closed so we decided to head to BTMRR. I had never been on any of the rides in the dark, so I was so excited! We also rode Splash Mountain and were able to catch some of Wishes from the top of that ride. SO COOL! Jonah bought a cute SM t-shirt that showed Mickey and his pals dripping wet. We explored some gift shops and really just enjoyed the quiet of the park late at night. Haunted Mansion was open again on our next trip by, so we went on that, of course!

SPOOKY!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200975.jpg

Pirates of the Caribbean was definitely on the list…can’t get too much of Captain Jack! Jonah found some accessories to make his pirate look complete! It’s kind of like Jack Sparrow meets Minnie Pearl! LOL!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200978.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200970.jpg

Just some fun night time pictures of the park…

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200977.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200976.jpg

There were a few things in Fantasyland we wanted to do, so we made our way there. We had a date with a certain Flying Elephant! Even at 11:30 we waited in line for about 15 minutes! I cheated a little and took this picture AFTER our ride!
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200974.jpg

I think we rode IASW again and also Snow White…no lines is always nice. The line for Peter Pan’s Flight was still 45 minutes so we skipped that. We had a run-in with Zurg…..
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200973.jpg

We finally got on the Tomorrowland Speedway as well. It’s a ride we won’t spend a lot of time waiting for so riding during EMH was perfect….and cool to do it in the dark! Jeff and the boys rode Astro Orbiter while I waited below. I had heard that it was not great for those with motion sickness so I decided to sit it out.

Although we are big fans of Stitch, I was not a big fan of the ride when we rode in 2007. But….again it was late and there was NO wait, so the boys talked me into giving the little blue guy another chance. Surprisingly, it was not as bad as I remembered it being and we had fun!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200972.jpg

By now it was nearly 1 AM and we were starting to feel it! We had covered a TON of ground and EMH was a huge success! The last thing we wanted to do was head back to Adventureland to get one last Dole Whip for the road!

The pretty castle on the way by…
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200971.jpg

With Dole Whips in hand, we strolled by the Jungle Cruise and although the CM’s were calling out for us to ride, we decided we were done for the night and walked right by. Sad now….I wish we had tried that one in the dark. We sat down at the tables outside Casey’s to enjoy our late night snack. Here’s what Jeff looks like at 1:30 AM after a full Disney Day!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200969.jpg
That’s my boy….still SMILING!!

By 1:50 we were on the bus and heading back to POR….sweet dreams everyone!

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200967.jpg

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/SundayMK--Disney200968.jpg

Next up …..OUR LAST DAY!

[longing2Batdisney]

Fun and full day!! ya'll certainly fit in alot of activity...I hope Dan was able to manage his last day! and you are right about cancellations always have to try...but I bet they over book Le Cellier with cancellations in mind...:rolleyes1
:wave2:

[Planning fanatic mom]

Your Spectro pics are so much better than mine. I liked them a lot.:love:

Sorry to hear about Dan. :sad2: As sad as it was to leave him, you probably did the right thing. Hopefully he got some rest and is ready for your last day.

Good Job on the last minute ADR:thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

Fun and full day!! ya'll certainly fit in alot of activity...I hope Dan was able to manage his last day! and you are right about cancellations always have to try...but I bet they over book Le Cellier with cancellations in mind...:rolleyes1
:wave2:

We really did manage to pack it in, didn't we? And a nap too!! I bet you're right about Le Cellier, but I had to try! LOL!

Your Spectro pics are so much better than mine. I liked them a lot.:love:

Sorry to hear about Dan. :sad2: As sad as it was to leave him, you probably did the right thing. Hopefully he got some rest and is ready for your last day.

Good Job on the last minute ADR:thumbsup2

Yeah...I think we definitely made the right decision with Dan. Someday he'll see Spectro! :rolleyes:

[DisMomAmy]

What a fun night!! Sounds like we watched Spectro from the same spot! My only complaint was the same as yours - we couldn't see the parade as it approached.

Sorry Dan wasn't up for the night out!

[mommytothreeboys]

What a fun night!! Sounds like we watched Spectro from the same spot! My only complaint was the same as yours - we couldn't see the parade as it approached.

Sorry Dan wasn't up for the night out!

I remember reading in your TR that we had the same spot for Spectro...you know what they say about great minds!

It was sad to leave Dan behind, but I really think it was the best decision. He only missed that night. If we had pushed him, I'm sure he would have missed the entire last day.

[praisehisname]

What an amazing evening you had! So sad that Dan missed out...:sick:

[mom2mek]

Missy, it sounds like a great night! So sorry about Dan though. All the more reason to get back, right? I hope he was feeling better the next day though!

Can't believe your almost done! :sad1:

Sara

[mickeystoontown]

How did I miss the Halloween post? Too much going on at the office I guess. I like all of the costumes but I think my favorite is the bright idea. Too cute!