Oh, D-D-D-Dear! My Piglet's Bday in the World UDD 10/10 The End!

[creativeamanda]

The good news is, it's time for our Trip Report, after a much anticipated trip to Disney World. The bad news? The fact that it's time for the Trip Report means the trip is over. I mean, seriously, it feels like Christmas morning after all of the gifts are open and all you have left to do is clean up the mess. Yet at the same time, I'm keeping the memories of the trip alive by doing this trip report and planning for my next trip. If any of you are interested in the planning for this trip, please visit my Pre-Trip Report, The Return of the Disney Box (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2076523). And now, on to the trip report, Oh, D-D-D-Dear! My Piglet's Birthday in the World.

So, this trip was originally supposed to be a New Year's 2010 trip. Then, however, the 7 for the price of 4 deal came up and I couldn't pass it up. The only problem with that, of course, was dh was taking a trip during the same time. So instead of dh going, my longtime friend and former co-worker, Gillian, joined in the fun. Now, I'll do the intros later, but here are the specifics of our trip:

DATES: June 23-July 1, 2009
RESORT: Port Orleans-Riverside
TICKETS: Magic Your Way Plus Water Park and More
DINING PLAN: Disney Dining Plan

Coming up--introductions and the drive, and What Was that Crash into My Car?

Table of Contents:


Oh, D-D-D-Dear! My Piglet's Birthday in the World (You're reading it!)

Introductions and What was that Crash Into My Car? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32547440&postcount=3)

Welcome Home, Check In, and Where in the Heck is That Room? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32563751&postcount=26)

I Pull Out the Map Finally and a Monorail Ride For Everyone (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32581509&postcount=38)

Getting Back to EPCOT from Magic Kingdom and Will I Ride Spaceship Earth Finally? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32619854&postcount=45)

Crowds? What Crowds? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32650638&postcount=54)

We're Really Home Now! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32680773&postcount=66)

Finishing the Morning At Magic Kingdom (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32757297&postcount=69)

Did I Sleep That Long? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32808431&postcount=78)

SpectroMagic and Wishes (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32875927&postcount=83)

Photopass Take One (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32876184&postcount=84)

Photopass Take Two (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32876202&postcount=85)

Mania for Toys and DTD (or is it the same thing?) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32975319&postcount=92)

And the Heavens Opened Up (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32986551&postcount=101)

Rain, Rain, Go Away and the Infamous Call (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32993994&postcount=108)

Racing Around the Track. . .Or Are We? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33027658&postcount=118)

the World Showcase, another trip to the Ministry of Magic, and AFLAC! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33257319&postcount=128)

Shopping. . .My Favorite Pasttime (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33277524&postcount=140)

BRRRR. . .There's a Blizzard at the Beach! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33363448&postcount=151)

It's a Block! It's a Party! What a Bash! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33624776&postcount=162)

Animals, Animals Everywhere. . . (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33739192&postcount=171)

Night in Everest (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33784849&postcount=175)

Oh, D-D-D-Dear! It's Piglet's Birthday! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33810124&postcount=178)

The Last Hours in the Parks (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33838762&postcount=179)

The Long Awaited Ending (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33900246&postcount=183)

[LegoMom3]

YAY!!!:banana:





popcorn::

[creativeamanda]

So, no trip report is complete without the players. There were five of us.

Me, creativeamanda, a special educator, and lover of all things Disney. I'm the tall(er) one in the picture.

My oldest daughter, who we call Sweetie with the lime green hat and pigtails.

My son, who we call Stinky. For obvious reasons. He loves to tease his sisters.

Then there is my youngest child, Boo. Her 7th birthday occurs during this trip and her favorite character is none other than Piglet.

Here is the four of us on the Swiss Family Treehouse in Magic Kingdom on the afternoon of June 24.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0217.jpg

Then, there is my friend, Gillian (pronounced as in a fish Gill, not like Jill), who joined us. Here she is with Boo in queue for Pirates of the Carribean.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0151.jpg

So, at 3:40 am, my alarm sounds and I jump out of bed. We're going to Disney World! I shower, get dressed, and quickly get everyone dressed (except Gillian--she can choose her own clothes, thankyouverymuch). Dh kindly gets up with us and makes chocolate chip pancakes for the kids and we eat a hearty breakfast before packing last minute items. At 4:50am, we pull out of the yard for Disney World, playing the Mickey Mouse march in the car. :banana: At the first intersection after our house, however, I have to do a u-turn.

I left the trip binder with all of the trip information on the grill in the back yard. :headache:

So, after a quick detour, we are on our way. At about 6:05 am, I pull into the Wachovia in Florence, SC, to make a much-needed withdrawal and then on to Starbucks for a Frappucino. YUM! Now, the trip can truly begin!

I can't tell you how many potty breaks my son had to have, but it was a lot! He definitely has the bladder the size of a pea. Anywho, we arrive in Florida by noon, and were on I-4 by 1:30.

Happily, I'm driving down I-4. This is the last leg of the trip and I am Oh-So-Excited. Then, out of no-where I hear CRASH!!!!!

What the Goofy Pants? A BIRD crashed into my windshield! Luckily, it left no damage, but that was truly a heart-stopping moment for me. About an hour later, I pull over to the side of the road. Why?

Well, for this, of course:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0002.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0003.jpg

I have finally arrived! I'm at my favorite place in the whole world, and in a few moments, I will hear the best line ever, "Welcome home."

Coming up--Welcome Home, Check In, and Where in the World is that Room?

[creativeamanda]

YAY!!!:banana:





popcorn::

I just KNEW you'd be first with the babnana! Welcome, my lego friend!

[tinkgurl]

Hey! I'm here!

[creativeamanda]

Hey! I'm here!

I can't wait to compare notes!

[tinkgurl]

And I still can't believe you saw me! :laughing: You probably thought I looked like a crazy person trying to get through that crowd! :laughing:

[creativeamanda]

And I still can't believe you saw me! :laughing: You probably thought I looked like a crazy person trying to get through that crowd! :laughing:

No--ut you looked like you were on a major mission--after all, napkins are no laughing matter, especially in that madhouse that was Cosmic Ray's that day--everyone decided to have lunch and wait out the rain!

[tinkgurl]

Haha I was! And I was mad because people are so stupid. We're walking with our trays to the table and people just keep walking at us and there was no where to go left or right.

[LegoMom3]

.... At the first intersection after our house, however, I have to do a u-turn.

I left the trip binder with all of the trip information on the grill in the back yard. :headache:

D'oh!....well, at least you remembered so soon! But hon, really??....THE Trip Binder??!....:rolleyes:



So, after a quick detour, we are on our way. At about 6:05 am, I pull into the Wachovia in Florence, SC, to make a much-needed withdrawal and then on to Starbucks for a Frappucino. YUM! Now, the trip can truly begin!

But of course.:thumbsup2


What the Goofy Pants?

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

About an hour later, I pull over to the side of the road. Why?
Well, for this, of course:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0002.jpg



I have finally arrived! I'm at my favorite place in the whole world, and in a few moments, I will hear the best line ever, "Welcome home."

*sigh*.....I sooo want to be there...right now....seeing that sign and hearing those words....:goodvibes


Coming up--Welcome Home, Check In, and Where in the World is that Room?

Oh dude I know exactly what's coming!!!!!....:scared:

.

[creativeamanda]

D'oh!....well, at least you remembered so soon! But hon, really??....THE Trip Binder??!....:rolleyes:

I know, I was such a froggin' Goober!





But of course.:thumbsup2




:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

I had to clean it up a little for the kids, lol.



*sigh*.....I sooo want to be there...right now....seeing that sign and hearing those words....:goodvibes

I already miss it!




Oh dude I know exactly what's coming!!!!!....:scared:

.

LOL, suffice it to say, we were NOT in building 15 again. I'll have to scan the map she gave us. . . :rotfl2:

[MrsSpratt]

I'm in....popcorn::

[Seewhatimesdone]

Wahoo! What a hectic/memory filled start! Can't wait for more

[creativeamanda]

I'm in....popcorn::

:welcome: Glad to have you!

Wahoo! What a hectic/memory filled start! Can't wait for more

I know, isn't it?!?

[jenjolt]

I'm in this sounds like a fun trip!! Can't wait to hear more!!!

:scared1:To leaving the trip binder behind LOL!

[goofy's_gurl]

im here. you got cute kids. i laughed about making a U-turn to get the trip binder. :lmao:

[creativeamanda]

I'm in this sounds like a fun trip!! Can't wait to hear more!!!

:scared1:To leaving the trip binder behind LOL!

I know--all of my paperwork was in there!

im here. you got cute kids. i laughed about making a U-turn to get the trip binder. :lmao:

Thanks, I think they are cute, myself--they certainly make life interesting! Of course, I'd make that u-turn, as any DISer would, I'm sure. :rolleyes1

[PaMom001]

subscribing....will read everything when I get back home...

[H20DogsNDisney]

Welcome HOME! :cool1::woohoo::yay::dance3: I;m here

[SunnieRN]

Your kids are SO cute!!! Can't wait to see more adventures!

I must say, your hubby sounds awesome to get up that early to make pancakes when he doesn't even get to go on the trip!! Very sweet!!:thumbsup2

[DeterminedOne]

Great start. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

subscribing....will read everything when I get back home...

:thumbsup2 Hope you have been having fun!

Welcome HOME! :cool1::woohoo::yay::dance3: I;m here

Thanks, Hallie! It won't be long until we're reading your trip report!

Your kids are SO cute!!! Can't wait to see more adventures!

I must say, your hubby sounds awesome to get up that early to make pancakes when he doesn't even get to go on the trip!! Very sweet!!:thumbsup2

Thanks--he was great to get up early and make pancakes. He had his on great trip, though. I'll explain it all in the TR. It makes for a funny story.

Great start. :thumbsup2


Thanks, POOKIE! LOL :rotfl2:

[H20DogsNDisney]

Ihave ine finished and ready for reading:thumbsup2

[Hollywoodhaha]

I'm here! :wave2:
I'm excited for the trip!
Yes, Starbucks :lovestruc

[creativeamanda]

Ihave ine finished and ready for reading:thumbsup2

Hooray!

I'm here! :wave2:
I'm excited for the trip!
Yes, Starbucks :lovestruc

Yes--no early morning is complete without Starbucks! :lovestruc

[creativeamanda]

So, after pulling over by the side of the road for a few pictures, we quickly find Port Orleans-Riverside. Gillian by this time is amazed at the fact that I have yet to look at a map or directions. And to be honest, I was, too. I remembered that Port Orleans Resorts were right after Old Key West, and I was so excited. So I drive up to the gate and offer my paperwork (thank goodness I had gone back to get it) and I hear my favorite line spoken by a Cast Member,

"Welcome Home."

I'm home. I'm back at Port Orleans and I just know I'll get Building 15 in Alligator Bayou. After all, that is my home. Or maybe not.

I pull up to the parking lot, and walk into the main building, taking in the sights and sounds of Disney World. By this time and after looking at the reception area, Gillian is thoroughly amazed at POR, and I have to say that I had forgotten how truly beautiful the resort is myself. A real sweet Cast Member from Korea pulls me from the online checkin line which is extremely long by now, to tell me she can take me right there in her line. She gets my information and then grabs my package. Then she pulls out all of the paperwork and writes my room number on my keycard envelope. What the Goofy Pants? 2840

Wait a minute, I have no clue where building 28 is. I had never in my wildest dreams mapped out walking from building 28. 34, yes. 14, 15, 16--of course. But here I was in Building 28. Which, apparently, is in Australia.

Just to give you all a clue--in October I was in Building 15, marked in Blue, which was pretty handy to the main bus depot--South Depot. Building 28, marked in purple, had a pretty long trek, if you followed the CM's directions. And we did, for a couple of days, until I discovered the trail marked in teal which was much closer. So, anyway, I had my orders--Building 28. And off I went. Hoping for some Pixie Dust.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/PexampleortOrleansMap.jpg

And Pixie Dust is exactly what I got. When I got to the room, I was even more concerned. It was on the second floor. I had to carry my junk up to the second floor. I tried to be optomistic about it, by saying, "At least people won't be walking over our heads." But I just felt a cloud hanging over me all of the sudden. I walked up the stairs with my bookbag only, waiting for the worst. And then, I noticed it. Pixie Dust surely was sprinkled on the selector of my room, or on me, or on all of us. Why did the Cast Member neglect to tell us? We had been upgraded to a Water View corner room. Our room, room 2840, was a corner room with a view of the quiet pool(although slightly obstructed, but technically a Water View at POR).

Our corner window:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0008.jpg

Our room:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0007.jpg

The Mickey Head in towels left by our Mousekeeper, who was awesome!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0006.jpg

Our room is the top floor on the right corner. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0179.jpg

The bridge leading to our building

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0177.jpg

Not our view, but the quiet pool we had a view of:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0175.jpg

So, we're in our room at 3:00pm (a 7.5 hour drive became a 10 hour one), we have felt a little Pixie Dust, and we're about to be on our way.

Coming up. . .I Pull Out the Map Finally and a Monorail Ride For Everyone. . .

[tinkgurl]

Haha, we were on the 3rd floor at OKW! No elevators either. :headache:

[TarzansKat]

I'm here! I'm late, but I'm here. I can't believe what happened with the bird on your windshield. Talk about starting your trip with a bang! :lmao:

I'm definitely going to live vicariously through you. I've never stayed at POR. I think I may have stayed there once when it was Dixie Landings, but if I did I don't remember. And it's sort of out for us unless we get a first floor room because Nana can't do stairs like that. It's just too much.

YAY for the upgrade on the room! It looks so pretty where you are. Can't wait to read more.

[LegoMom3]

...
Wait a minute, I have no clue where building 28 is. I had never in my wildest dreams mapped out walking from building 28. 34, yes. 14, 15, 16--of course. But here I was in Building 28. Which, apparently, is in Australia.



Well, first of all, NObody maps out walking to ANY of the outer-limits AB buildings!!....:rotfl:Except the CMs, and of course they make it look oh so easy... Do you know that about a month after getting back from our first stay at POR in '06, I had a stress-dream that I was wandering the grounds there, and I could see my building but couldn't find the right path to take me there. Dude.

Now, would someone kindly help me up off the floor?....these pictures are just making me melt!!:cloud9:

.

[creativeamanda]

Haha, we were on the 3rd floor at OKW! No elevators either. :headache:

:scared1: I think one more flight of stairs would have killed me. Especially after all of the stairs at Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. No one told me all of that climbing would be involved!

I'm here! I'm late, but I'm here. I can't believe what happened with the bird on your windshield. Talk about starting your trip with a bang! :lmao:

I'm definitely going to live vicariously through you. I've never stayed at POR. I think I may have stayed there once when it was Dixie Landings, but if I did I don't remember. And it's sort of out for us unless we get a first floor room because Nana can't do stairs like that. It's just too much.

YAY for the upgrade on the room! It looks so pretty where you are. Can't wait to read more.

Hiya, TK! That bird scared the bejeebees out of me. The whole time, I'm thinking "Did I save Mean Queen's number in my phone? How stupid am I going to sound calling her?" I mean really, I thought at first I had a tire blow-out or something. POR is beautiful! And I was so excited after I saw the room. It was so awesome! The bottom floor at POR (where we were in October) is also wonderful. Especially after a long day. . .

Well, first of all, NObody maps out walking to ANY of the outer-limits AB buildings!!....:rotfl:Except the CMs, and of course they make it look oh so easy... Do you know that about a month after getting back from our first stay at POR in '06, I had a stress-dream that I was wandering the grounds there, and I could see my building but couldn't find the right path to take me there. Dude.

Now, would someone kindly help me up off the floor?....these pictures are just making me melt!!:cloud9:

.

:lmao::rotfl2: Only a person who has stayed in Alligator Bayou at Port Orleans-Riverside would truly get that! Thanks for the compliments on my pictures, too. I absolutely love my camera! (And the subject)

[Incredimom3]

Oh boy, I can't wait to hear more of your adventures at WDW and POR. I look forward to your updates.

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

Yay some pixie dust!! Can't wait to hear more about your trip!!

[PaMom001]

O thank goodness I only had 2 sections to catch up on....I, myself, am finally home. Maybe I should do a trippie for my non-Dis trip. :confused3

[creativeamanda]

Oh boy, I can't wait to hear more of your adventures at WDW and POR. I look forward to your updates.

One should come within the next 2-3 days!

Yay some pixie dust!! Can't wait to hear more about your trip!!

Welcome, and thanks!

O thank goodness I only had 2 sections to catch up on....I, myself, am finally home. Maybe I should do a trippie for my non-Dis trip. :confused3

You should!!!! And congrats on being home!

[tinkgurl]

Okay, are you freaked out about the monorail accident too?! I can't believe we were just there!

[jenjolt]

Gorgeous room and YAY :wizard:for the pixie dust and upgrade!! Glad you made it there and let the real fun begin!!!

Can't wait to read more!!

[creativeamanda]

Okay, are you freaked out about the monorail accident too?! I can't believe we were just there!

OMG, yes! I was on both the pink and purple monorails last week and I honestly just cried over the CM! That whole thing is just horrifying!

Gorgeous room and YAY :wizard:for the pixie dust and upgrade!! Glad you made it there and let the real fun begin!!!

Can't wait to read more!!

Thanks! I loved that room--I don't know if the corner rooms are actually bigger or just seem bigger because of the extra window, but I was happy for it!

[creativeamanda]

DISCLAIMER: The Pictures you are about to see include pictures of the pink monorail car. As many of you are aware, this car was involved in an accident early Sunday morning that took the life of a young Cast Member who provided plenty of Disney magic for many people. Although I had never met the Cast Member who lost his life, my heartfelt prayers go out to the family. Before I begin this update, I'd like to take a brief moment to include space for a moment of silence for all involved either directly or indirectly. . .







































































































Thanks.
_________________________________________
So, we are at Disney World, and one of the unfortunate problems with having a small car is the lack of space to bring all of the necessities. That, however, is easily corrected with a short trip to possibly my second favorite store in the world: Wal Mart. Before I left the house that day, I mapped out and printed directions to the nearby WalMart in Kissimmee. Can I say, WOW?!? I drove there, finally having to pull out directions because I did not know the exact location, but found it easily enough, having stayed nearby there in October for the first night. I wish I had brought a camera into this WalMart. It was absolutely the best one I've ever been in. It had a huge, and I mean HUGE Disney section that I could have spent an hour in!

Needless to say, however, I did not spend an hour in there, as we were going to Disney World, not Wally World (and who would have wanted to go there as with the Griswalds, anyway?)

So, we gather our newly purchased water and Gatorade and breakfast items and take them to the room. Then, we use the map given to us by the Cast Member at the front desk to walk to the South Depot. Although the West Depot was closer to the room, I had learned from experience that you did not want to try to get on the bus from there. We therefore walked to the South Depot in the mornings and of course, got off at the West Depot in the evenings.


We wait only a short while for the bus to take us over to Epcot, and get on for the first of our many rides to EPCOT.

Boo loves the WDW Buses:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0011-1.jpg

When we get to EPCOT, we decide to take the monorail over to Magic Kingdom and then back to EPCOT, just for a glimpse of the castle. After, all, our first ride at Disney has always been the monorail.

I snapped some pictures of the monorails: the pink one at the TTC. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0018-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0019-1.jpg


And our orange one--I believe this was the Ticket and Transportation Center. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0020.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0024.jpg

And then, on the monorail, I get the first sight of the castle. Yet again, I'm ready for Cinderella to pack her junk up and go to I can move in. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0029.jpg

So there you have it--our first ride for the 2009 trip--the monorail. Coming up--Getting Back to EPCOT from Magic Kingdom and Will I Ride Spaceship Earth Finally?

[PaMom001]

Nice update. Has anything been figured out as to what happened with the monorails?

[tinkgurl]

It's just so sad what happened. I'm sure we have pictures of the pink or purple monorail sometime on our trip. :sad1:

LOVE the picture with the Castle. *Sigh* I miss the darn place so bad!

[creativeamanda]

Nice update. Has anything been figured out as to what happened with the monorails?

The speculation is that it was an error with the transportation system's control. The person killed was not driving the monorail--the other one backed into him. Either way, I'm sure Disney will launch a full internal investigation.

It's just so sad what happened. I'm sure we have pictures of the pink or purple monorail sometime on our trip. :sad1:

LOVE the picture with the Castle. *Sigh* I miss the darn place so bad!

I am sure I have the purple, too, and I am sure I may have ridden on it, as well.

I miss that place, too, but I'm back to the thing that makes me afford it--work.

You know, I am sure that work can be bleeped out as a curse word. . .

[TarzansKat]

The speculation is that it was an error with the transportation system's control. The person killed was not driving the monorail--the other one backed into him. Either way, I'm sure Disney will launch a full internal investigation.

It's a tragedy. I feel a lot of sympathy for everyone involved.


You know, I am sure that work can be bleeped out as a curse word. . .

You know, it is a four letter word. :lmao:

Anyway, great chapter. I can't wait to see what you do next. :goodvibes

[Seewhatimesdone]

What a beautiful resort! I hope to stay there some day. I love the shot of your three kids on the bus; they're so darn cute!

[creativeamanda]

It's a tragedy. I feel a lot of sympathy for everyone involved.



You know, it is a four letter word. :lmao:

Anyway, great chapter. I can't wait to see what you do next. :goodvibes

Bold Mine. Yeah--I'm just sayin'. :rolleyes1

What a beautiful resort! I hope to stay there some day. I love the shot of your three kids on the bus; they're so darn cute!

It is a beautiful resort--I'm going to miss it for my next trip--I'll have to go visit!

My kids are definitely something else, lol!

[creativeamanda]

So, once you get over to the Magic Kingdom, you have a lot of different ways to get back to Epcot. You can take the monorail to any of the monorail resorts and then take a bus, or you can take the express monorail to the TTC, or you can take the ferry to the TTC and then a monorail back to Epcot. And there are plenty of other combinations, but our choice was the ferry-monorail option. We board the ferry which has already docked and ride over to the TTC, taking pictures of the monorail resorts the whole time.

The Grand Floridian:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0036.jpg

The Contemporary:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0037.jpg

The Poly:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0045.jpg

Either way, there are all kinds of sights from the ferry. But my favorite sight was actually on the ferry:

They look so happy--~*sigh*~

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0043.jpg

Then, we go over to the TTC, take a bathroom break for the boy with no bladder, and then go back to Epcot. By this time, it was getting darker, but drier, at least. And for the first time in all of my trips to Disney World, I ride. . .

SPACESHIP EARTH!

Which is really a cool ride, by the way!

We then go to The Land for up until this past trip a ride that was my favorite (it got usurped by another ride)

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0065.jpg

And I just love all of the balloons in The Land. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0063.jpg

We leave this ride to return to the resort, but not before I take a couple of my favorite pictures from this trip. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0071-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0072-1.jpg

We get off at the West Depot, and after I attempt to get everyone lost, Gillian gets us on the right track. We all get situated in the room, and go to sleep. After all, we have Rope Drop tomorrow in Magic Kingdom. And one must wonder, do I cry this time? Or no?

UPCOMING: Crowds? What Crowds?

[PaMom001]

What nice pictures. I love the shots of Epcot.

[Incredimom3]

I just love that ferry ride. Did you enjoy staying at POR? We are excited about our first stay at the resort. I'd love to hear your feedback on staying there.

[jenjolt]

I just love the site of Spaceship Earth at night!!! It's so pretty!!!

I'm a huge fan of SSE so I'm glad you were able to ride it and enjoy it!!! I really can't wait to get back on it in Sept!!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your first full day at MK!!!!!

[TarzansKat]

Oh my goodness, I am just going to echo everyone else here and say I love those photos of Spaceship Earth. It is so, so beautiful at night.

This trip is off to a great start. I love the balloons in the Land, too! They're just so happy. :goodvibes

[pooh'smate]

I am coming over from TK's ptr. I am going back to read now.

[creativeamanda]

What nice pictures. I love the shots of Epcot.

I love those--they are my favorites.

I just love that ferry ride. Did you enjoy staying at POR? We are excited about our first stay at the resort. I'd love to hear your feedback on staying there.

I love POR--it really does seem like home to me. It's our second stay and let me just say, the thought of not being at POR for the next trip makes me feel like something has been ripped from me. If I can convice dh to go, though. . .

I just love the site of Spaceship Earth at night!!! It's so pretty!!!

I'm a huge fan of SSE so I'm glad you were able to ride it and enjoy it!!! I really can't wait to get back on it in Sept!!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your first full day at MK!!!!!

I loved SSE! It was awesome! I don't think I even realized on our first trip tou could go in there. :headache:

Those pictures turned out so great!

Oh my goodness, I am just going to echo everyone else here and say I love those photos of Spaceship Earth. It is so, so beautiful at night.

This trip is off to a great start. I love the balloons in the Land, too! They're just so happy. :goodvibes

:hug::goodvibes They are happy, aren't they? And feel free to echo. I love my new camera.

I am coming over from TK's ptr. I am going back to read now.

Well, you are so welcome here! Glad to see you!:dance3:

[LegoMom3]

Oooh, playin' with fire, messing with two different POR bus stops!!....:scared:



:rotfl2:


Awesome update.....GREAT pictures! Love SE at night (although I still prefer the Jeremony Irons version of the actual ride....:sad2:).

And if you're moving into the castle, I'm volunteering to be your maid!!:rotfl:

.

[creativeamanda]

Oooh, playin' with fire, messing with two different POR bus stops!!....:scared:



:rotfl2:


Awesome update.....GREAT pictures! Love SE at night (although I still prefer the Jeremony Irons version of the actual ride....:sad2:).

And if you're moving into the castle, I'm volunteering to be your maid!!:rotfl:

.

What's your daily rate?

:rotfl:

[creativeamanda]

After a wonderfully restful night on the beds in room 2840, we get up, get ready, and walk to the South Depot at POR. Of course, as luck would have it, though, we got lost on our way there. :rolleyes1 I mean, seriously, how hard is it to follow signs?

We board not the Disney bus, but the Meares bus that apparently Disney had added to accommodate the crowds or something. It's a good thing we walked all the way to the South Depot, because both buses at the stop were full when we left.

A short ride later, we were at the Magic Kingdom. And here, Gillian learned a valuable lesson: DO NOT go to Disney World with a bag that has a gazillion zippers. :rotfl: I think everytime she walked up to the bag check, there was an intake of breath as they saw all of those zippers!!!

So, were were inside the turnstiles, standing in front of the train depot. Gillian says, "Why are we just standing here?" And I cheer, "Rope Drop!" Well, at least ds knows what's happening:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0079.jpg

And then she figures it all out:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0080.jpg

OMG! It's Mickey Mouse!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0086.jpg

Then, we make through the crowds all hand in hand to get into the park, grab a few maps, and then finally we get into the park. Holy crowds, Batman! It did not take long for them to dissapate throughout the park, though. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0097.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0101.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0102.jpg

I think those crowds would send some of our friends who travel in Jan-March; early December running. Me? I didn't find the crowds any worse than what I encountered at the Food and Wine Festival in 2008.

Coming up. . .We're really Home, now!

[goofy's_gurl]

love the Spaceship Earth pictures. they turned out so pretty!

[creativeamanda]

love the Spaceship Earth pictures. they turned out so pretty!

:goodvibes Thanks!

[jenjolt]

Hey, I love pictures of the castle!! I'm glad you were not intimidated by the crowds and were ready to have a great morning in MK!

[tbtdawg]

I can't wait to hear the story of the phone call from your husband while doing laundry.
:rotfl2:
Hi Amanda!

[tbtdawg]

Double post.

[TarzansKat]

See those crowds would make me a little itchy, but if they disperse quickly, I guess it's no big deal. I would love to make a rope drop. Hopefully this trip. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

Hey, I love pictures of the castle!! I'm glad you were not intimidated by the crowds and were ready to have a great morning in MK!

Oh, yeah--we got so much done! I can't wait for that installment. Just have to get the pictures uploaded. . .

I can't wait to hear the story of the phone call from your husband while doing laundry.
:rotfl2:
Hi Amanda!

O. M. G. Tim joined up and my TR was his very first post. O. M. G.

This is defintely call for a dancing babnana or four! :banana::banana::banana::banana:

Tell METDawg and Sara hey for me and give them a big hug. And the phone call?!? LOL, I just have to share that one! That was Friday night, right?

See those crowds would make me a little itchy, but if they disperse quickly, I guess it's no big deal. I would love to make a rope drop. Hopefully this trip. :thumbsup2

I hope you get to, as well. I neglected to say I did not cry at rope drop this year, as I did when we went in October. :rolleyes1 But, rope drop is definitely a must do at least once or twice. Hope you get to do it in the future!

[tinkgurl]

We've never made it to a rope drop. :rotfl2:

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

I love your pictures of Epcot, they're gorgeous!! Ahhh, my castle, what a beautiful sight! (Yes it's my castle, Cinderella's just borrowing it!! :rotfl:)

[goofy's_gurl]

We've never made it to a rope drop. :rotfl2:

same here. we plan on trying this vacation. the question is will we?? :confused3

[creativeamanda]

We've never made it to a rope drop. :rotfl2:

:rotfl2:You totally have to one day. Seriously, last October, I started crying. Yes, crying--during rope drop!

I love your pictures of Epcot, they're gorgeous!! Ahhh, my castle, what a beautiful sight! (Yes it's my castle, Cinderella's just borrowing it!! :rotfl:)

LOL about Cinderella's castle. And thanks about those pictures! I really think they came out great!

same here. we plan on trying this vacation. the question is will we?? :confused3

Again, you have to make it to ONE rope drop. You just have to.

Kind of like the Seinfeld episode--"You gotta see the baby!!!!"

[creativeamanda]

So, when I last left you all, we had walked into crowds. And I have been graciously told by TarzansKat that those were big crowds? I don't know. Perhaps I'll see better crowds in October. And shhh. . .please don't tell the people at work that I'm taking my personal days to go to Disney World. Come to think of it, don't tell anyone over on the Community Board, either. . . :rolleyes1

Anyway, we were in the Magic Kingdom, and while everyone and their brother was rushing to Dumbo, we took a right turn straight towards Tomorrowland. Of course, we had to first stop for a potty break for my son. :headache: It would be the first of a million of those. For that day. :rotfl2:

So, after that quick detour, we arrive at a ride that I had never done. Come to think of it, I had not done many rides in Tomorrowland. But how could I miss Buzz Lightyear after how much I love Toy Story Mania?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0106.jpg

So, Gillian wins the battle on this ride, but we still have Stinky's Magic Kingdom favorite coming up--the Tomorrowland Speedway. I don't know why he likes this one, as it is all too similar to our golf cart, but he likes it so. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0107.jpg

By that time, we are ready to go over to Toontown. And we are there, just in time for the Toontown rope drop. Not as exciting as the regular park rope drop, but fun, nonetheless.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0111.jpg

And would you know it, my son, who hates roller coasters says, "Can we ride that?"

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0116.jpg

So, a wild ride through a barn later, and we head over to Minnie's house. I had never been in there, but it was so cute!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0115.jpg
So, by this time, we are ready for some serious park stomping. Coming up. . .

Fininshing the morning and I can't believe I slept that long!

[goofy's_gurl]

great update! doesnt like roller coasters but wants to ride one. LOL! thats priceless

[creativeamanda]

great update! doesnt like roller coasters but wants to ride one. LOL! thats priceless

I know. What a little drama artist he is.

[creativeamanda]

So, we are at the Magic Kingdom for Rope drop and by 10:00, have had a couple of restroom breaks and ridden a couple of rides. Typically by 11:00 I can get the whole of Fantasyland done, but we were all in SLOW MOTION this morning. And I mean, slow motion. S-L-O-W M-O-T-I-O-N. It was okay, though, because we were about to visit a certain hyperactive Tiger who could kick us all into gear.

Ya know, this guy:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0119.jpg

Now, I absolutely love Tigger, and many of you will remember in my PTR I thought we should rename park hoppers Park Bouncies in honor of Tigger. Hasn't caught on yet, but when it does, I can assure you I will be expecting my royalties from the Walt Disney Company. :rolleyes1

So, with a new spring in our step, we walk over to the newly changed entrance to It's A Small World. I am so hoping this has changed by October, because I missed the old entrance immensely. Now, I will tell you this--this ride, more than any other, freaks me out. It, of course, is because of the clowns that ride in those balloons! Seriously, who thought of that?!? Either way, we see the infamous clock,

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0123.jpg

Sweetie is only feigning happiness because she was bribed to get on this ride. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0125.jpg

And, just for Legomom. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0131.jpg

:rotfl2::lmao:

So, we have ridden TASW, and we are on to grab a fast pass for Peter Pan and then get in queue for the Haunted Mansion, which I seriously love more during the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. Either way, I love the building. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0140.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0143.jpg

So, we get off that ride, and the kids play around in Liberty Square before we head off for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Stinky's assessment of BTMR? "Fun, but I don't want to do it again." :lmao:

But here are the girls in Liberty Square:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0146.jpg


And then, we are off to my favorite ride in Magic Kingdom:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0149.jpg

Yep, I'd do Grumpy Pirate and Tarzan'sKat proud. I love that ride!

And Gillian snaps a picture of the kids and me outside of Pirates in the gift shop. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0155.jpg

I quickly then hustle the children out of there! Man, I hate the placement of those shops with the kids, but they do listen better when I tell them, "No" than their father. Guess who the disciplinarian is. :rolleyes:

So we run over and ride Peter Pan before heading back towards the room.

Coming up--MY Castle, and Did I Sleep That Long?

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

Great update!! I love HM and Pirates too! Do you like the update to HM? I love it, I love that they actually made the story actually prominent in the ride!

[TarzansKat]

I love this chapter! Full of some of my favorites!

Pirates, obviously. Goes without saying. But I love the Haunted Mansion, and yes, I am one of those crazy people who loves IASW. :lmao:

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

I love this chapter! Full of some of my favorites!

Pirates, obviously. Goes without saying. But I love the Haunted Mansion, and yes, I am one of those crazy people who loves IASW. :lmao:



Me too!! I love IASW, I actually sing the song too!! Haha, it drives my bf nuts!!

[TarzansKat]

Me too!! I love IASW, I actually sing the song too!! Haha, it drives my bf nuts!!

We have to stick together, you know. There are so few of us. :lmao:

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

We have to stick together, you know. There are so few of us. :lmao:

Haha, absolutely!!

[creativeamanda]

Great update!! I love HM and Pirates too! Do you like the update to HM? I love it, I love that they actually made the story actually prominent in the ride!

I love the update to HM! I remember it being kind of boring and disjointed the first time we went, but now it ties in together so well!

I love this chapter! Full of some of my favorites!

Pirates, obviously. Goes without saying. But I love the Haunted Mansion, and yes, I am one of those crazy people who loves IASW. :lmao:

Aw, thanks!

Me too!! I love IASW, I actually sing the song too!! Haha, it drives my bf nuts!!

We have to stick together, you know. There are so few of us. :lmao:

Haha, absolutely!!

The problem is, I like ISAW except for the clowns. I sit on the outside to take pictures and then after we are settled in, I remember the clowns. :scared1: Did I mention I hate clowns?

Any who, I do find myself singing the song from time to time. . .:rolleyes1

I would love IASW if it weren't for the clowns. . .

I got my photopass cd today and will have to share some of those.

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

I love the update to HM! I remember it being kind of boring and disjointed the first time we went, but now it ties in together so well!



Aw, thanks!







The problem is, I like ISAW except for the clowns. I sit on the outside to take pictures and then after we are settled in, I remember the clowns. :scared1: Did I mention I hate clowns?

Any who, I do find myself singing the song from time to time. . .:rolleyes1

I would love IASW if it weren't for the clowns. . .

I got my photopass cd today and will have to share some of those.



Yay photopass pics!! I love seeing how they came out!! Yay a fellow IASW singer!! I guess then we'll have to get rid of those nasty clowns. I can take them either way so if they go, won't bother me much. Sorry to those who like the clowns but can't we just take them out for creativeamanda?!

[creativeamanda]

Yay photopass pics!! I love seeing how they came out!! Yay a fellow IASW singer!! I guess then we'll have to get rid of those nasty clowns. I can take them either way so if they go, won't bother me much. Sorry to those who like the clowns but can't we just take them out for creativeamanda?!


I don't know when I'll get those pictures uploaded, but it will be soon. I need to get them printed. Our local Walgreens has a goon deal going on right now. I need to take advantage of it.

A well know fact about me is that I hate clowns. Hate them. Am petrified of them.

[creativeamanda]

So, we had eaten lunch, and where I don't know, but we were all tired. So after lunch, we decided to go back to the resort.

AH. . .Home again. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0178-1.jpg

Now, I'll tell you--I had no intentions of going to sleep. I still had my contact lenses in and thought falling asleep would be a huge mistake. Two hours later, however, I realized with horror my contacts were stuck to my eyelids. :scared1: So I put drops in my eyes and then proceed to wake everone up. We had reservations soon at Liberty Tree Tavern.

We took the long walk back to the front, which I'm glad of. I had never seen these parts of Port Orleans-Riverside. . .

The tree here is a glorious tree. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0181.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0182.jpg

Ole Man Island Pool was PACKED!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0185.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0187.jpg

And I just love the main building of Port Orleans-Riverside. It seems so much like home to me. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0189.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0190.jpg

Riverside Mill Food Court. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0191.jpg

So after that walk and a trip through the food court for a drink, we take the bus back to Magic Kingdom:

Where it is still a bit crowded:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0197.jpg

I love this statue, as does BOO..

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0199.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0201.jpg

The castle is still pretty, even with all of the people. . .
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0204.jpg

Our first stop was the Swiss Family Treehouse, which the kids always love.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0217-1.jpg

Then, someone walks up to Gillian and hands her 2 fastpasses for Splash Mountain! Gillian takes Boo on Splash while Stinky, Sweetie, and I go to the Mercantile in Liberty Square to look at Pins.

By that time, it was time for dinner. And I may be a big time dissenter here, but I like Liberty Tree Tavern BETTER without the characters. I love the food, and it just seems less stressful eating without characters. So, LTT gets two thumbs up from me, the kids, and Gillian, and we head on to ride Stitch in Tomorrowland. What a waste of time. Sorry for any Stitch lovers, but I should have ridden the teacups.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0218.jpg

We then go over to the Monster's Inc Laugh Floor. If any of you were there when the little girl chosen said she wanted to be a veterinarian and everyone said, "Awwww," that was my Sweetie. Yep, she was the kid chosen that day!

So, the sun is going down, we've done a lot, and it's only time for one more thing--to choose a spot for the Fireworks and Parade.

Coming up. . .Spectro and Wishes. . .

[LegoMom3]

Well, thanks for ripping my heart out and stomping all over it with those POR pictures.....:sad1: (jk!)

Seriously, they are beautiful! Don't you love that tree?! I want my next trip to POR to be just me and DH....it'll take on a whole new perspective!

.

[tinkgurl]

My B/F loved looking at that big wheel by the Riverside Mill Food Court when we ate at Boatwright's a few years ago.

Am I going to be mentioned when you see me at Cosmic Ray's? :rotfl:

[TarzansKat]

POR looks beautiful. Just beautiful.

I know how you feel about falling asleep with your contacts in. I rarely, rarely do it, but sometimes, you're just so tired, you give in. :lmao:

[creativeamanda]

Well, thanks for ripping my heart out and stomping all over it with those POR pictures.....:sad1: (jk!)

Seriously, they are beautiful! Don't you love that tree?! I want my next trip to POR to be just me and DH....it'll take on a whole new perspective!

.

:goodvibes I was, uh, just showing you that, uh, your home will still be there. Yeah! That's it!

My B/F loved looking at that big wheel by the Riverside Mill Food Court when we ate at Boatwright's a few years ago.

Am I going to be mentioned when you see me at Cosmic Ray's? :rotfl:

I love that wheel! Our last breakfast in October of last year was right beside it.

I will mention you at Cosmic Rays, but that was our last day. For some odd reason, I'm still on the second day. :rotfl2:

POR looks beautiful. Just beautiful.

I know how you feel about falling asleep with your contacts in. I rarely, rarely do it, but sometimes, you're just so tired, you give in. :lmao:

I know with the contacts. I try not to because I don't want an infection. But that day I just could not help it. I had laid down, I was still, and was so snuggly in the bed. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ. :rotfl:

[creativeamanda]

Tonight was the night. In late April/Early May I bought my pride and joy--my Nikon D60 camera. It's an entry level digital SLR--I absolutely love it. The reason I bought it so far before Mother's day (it was my present for Mother's day) was so I could get accustomed to it before the trip. After the awesome pictures tbtdawg took in October of fireworks, I wanted good pictures like that. Let's face it, point-and-shoot cameras are fine for everyday pictures, but for good shots of landscapes, portraits, and fireworks, you almost have to have a DSLR.

So almost an hour before Spectromagic, we made our way onto the hub. My intentions were to get a good view of the parade and see Tinkerbell. Well, the spot we had was at the end of Main Street on the same side at Crystal Palace. We had an okay view of the parade--it would have been better if the 6 foot, 1 millon inch man would sit down--he was right on the curb and would not sit down--even though children were behind him.

Anyway, as it got darker and darker, I started to get more and more excited--Spectromagic was about to start! The castle just looked so beautiful. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0227.jpg

(And yes, that is a sea of people)

And then, the music started. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0235.jpg

You can just see the sleeve of the giant in front of us on the right of the picture. Oh well, c'est la vie!

I love the Cinderella-Prince Charming Float!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0262.jpg

And can anyone explain to me why Dopey gets to ride on the float, but the rest of the dwarves have to walk?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0272.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0275.jpg

Anyway, we watch Spectro, and it's really dark now. . .and the castle is just looking more and more like home to me. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0276.jpg

Boo just decided she would lean against Gillian's bookbag to watch the fireworks. Hey, at least she is awake!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0280.jpg

And then, as a sign that all was right with the world, I finally see Tinkerbell. Trust me, this is her!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0284.jpg

And the fireworks begin! And let me tell you, these are some of the best fireworks photos I've ever taken--I know I could do better, but I can't wait to see how much better they are next go-round!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0291.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0300.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0302.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0306.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0315.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0316.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0318.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0319.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0320.jpg

And then, before I even felt like it had begun, it was all over. We move over to the side and let most of the people leave the park. We walked over for the 4 millionth restroom break over near the first aid center in Magic Kingdom, and take the all too short bus ride back to Port Orleans.

Coming up. . .Mania for Toys and Downtown Disney (or is it both the same thing?)

[creativeamanda]

A couple of you have asked to see some of my Photopass pictures--here are a few of them. . .

Wednesday, June 24--

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image0989.jpg

Thursday, June 25--It was about to rain--

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1059.jpg

Friday, June 26--Epcot character spot--it was raining during this--

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1083.jpg

Goofy got a little fresh holding onto my shoulder here! :scared1: :rotfl2:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1097.jpg

Stinky and me going down the family raft ride at Typhoon Lagoon--

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1110.jpg

Saturday, June 27--Epcot--

I think all of the rides that take a picture should have a photopass spot at the end.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1120.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1121.jpg

Sunday, June 28--Hollywood Studios--Stinky loves Cars--

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1135.jpg

The photopass guy at the stop for Toy Story got good individuals of each of my kids. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1143.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1145.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1148.jpg

And the group shot with Woody and Buzz was great, too. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1152.jpg

Continued next post. . .

[creativeamanda]

Monday, June 29--Animal Kingdom:

The sun was really in my eyes here

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1157.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1159.jpg

Look how wet we were by the end of the day. . .rain and Kali River Rapids will do it to you. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1165.jpg

June 30, 2009--Boo's Birthday

Blizzard Beach:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1168.jpg

The photopass guy made sure to get on eof the birthday girl--doesn't she just look like a mess?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1170.jpg

We went to Magic Kingdom for the monsoon of 2009 that afternoon:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1178.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1180.jpg

[TarzansKat]

Wonderful night photos with your camera! WOW! :goodvibes

I really love the photo of all of you behind the castle. It took me a while to orient myself, I was trying to think of where you were. I've never seen one from back there before, and I like that it's different. :thumbsup2

[tinkgurl]

Oh my gosh, love the photopass pic of you guys at AK at night!

[pooh'smate]

I love all your pictures. Your kids (and you too) look like you are having so much fun.

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

Oh I love your pics!! You're kids are so cute! Does anyone else see a hidden Mickey in the pic with the red fireworks?

[tinkgurl]

Does anyone else see a hidden Mickey in the pic with the red fireworks?

I saw it too!

[creativeamanda]

Wonderful night photos with your camera! WOW! :goodvibes

I really love the photo of all of you behind the castle. It took me a while to orient myself, I was trying to think of where you were. I've never seen one from back there before, and I like that it's different. :thumbsup2

Thanks! I like that photopass angle, as well.

Oh my gosh, love the photopass pic of you guys at AK at night!

We were so wet, so tired, and so cold (believe it or not), but I had to have that picture taken! I'm glad I did!

I love all your pictures. Your kids (and you too) look like you are having so much fun.

We did!

Oh I love your pics!! You're kids are so cute! Does anyone else see a hidden Mickey in the pic with the red fireworks?

I saw it too!

I love that picture--I shot it about a second too late, but I knew it was coming, so I waited for it.

[creativeamanda]

After a good night's rest, we all popped up bright and squirrley on Thursday morning for Hollywood Studios. It took me a while to convince Gillian that we had to get up early to get to Toy Story Mania without a huge wait, but get up she did. We walked over to the South Depot after and in-room breakfast and rode over to Hollywood Studios, where we ended up in what seems like the back of the pack for rope drop.

Well, no matter. As rope drop commenced, we took off in the half-trot that's not quite a walk and not quite a run (let's call it a wa-un) following the helpful CM's who were herding us like we were soon to be stampeding cattle. People who did break off and run, well, still got stuck in the arch going back to Pixar Place, so I really don't see what their fuss was all about.

We, on the other hand, stayed with the crowd, where the line for Fastpasses were already insanely long. We went on to the standby line.

This was my favorite game as a child, and Boo's now. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0321.jpg

Hide your eyes, Legomom! It's a Barrel of Monkeys!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0324.jpg

Mr. Potato Head was in full mode, and my son was asked the question what is favorite toy was. He said, Legos. :rotfl2:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0326.jpg

We ride TSM, and Gillian gets why everyone wants to ride that ride so much! :banana: As we leave, it's not even 9:30, but this is what the queue wait time and fast pass return look like. Not too bad, though--especially that fast pass return. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0331.jpg

And I just love these guys!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0332.jpg

So we leave there, and where next? The Great Movie Ride, of course! First, though, we have to stop for the obligatory picture of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat. A lot of people don't like it, but I love it!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0335.jpg

Of course, we have to ride the first GMR (where we pick up the hitchiker in the first area--can't remember which one), but we'll have another chance later.

I love this detail. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0337.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0336.jpg

After this, we walk over to Star Tours, where ds loses his Dash hat. Also, the kids and I get to ride the ride 2 times consecutively because Gillian's seat belt was broken. Instead of us having to wait for her, the CM just let us ride again. I promise another hat for ds later in DTD, and he thus happily walks with us over to Toy Story Pizza Planet. Can I say, I :lovestruc this CS location?!? It has to be the best one in Hollywood Studios!

By this time, we are all tired of DHS, as DS and Gillian don't really like roller coasters, so decide we are going over to Downtown Disney. . .via the Contemporary Resort. :confused3

I have never been in the Contemporary, so I thought it would be a good idea to go over there. We walked around a bit, and I simply loved this store. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0345.jpg

In no time, the Orange Monorail comes through. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0349-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0352.jpg

I love this mural. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0347.jpg

We then walk back over to the bus stop to go to Downtown Disney. And this is where we learned our first mistake. The bus to DOwntown Disney is not like any other. We had to wait 30 minutes for the bus to come in the first place, and then ride over to the Poly, Grand Floridian, and then by POR what felt like 15 times before we made it to Downtown Disney. Total bus riding and waiting time? About 2 hours :scared1:

At least the kids were enjoying themselves. . .


http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_03542.jpg

Our first stop? The Lego Store!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_03572.jpg

So after a couple of hours of dumping my hard-earned cash at the Lego Store and World of Disney (where I replaced ds's hat with a cool Mickey hat), we stopped and got a frozen lemonade in DTD and waited for Gillian to finish her shopping. I took a top at the Pin Traders, where I made my wish list, and we decided to head back over to POR (and a 45 minute bus ride--lesson learned, if you have a car, drive to DTD) to rest up before returning to DHS. Well, Gillian and I rested. The kids?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0410.jpg

Boo didn't even take off her fanny pack. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_04092.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0411.jpg

Coming up . . . And the Heavens Opened Up. . .

[Incredimom3]

It' so great to hear more of your story. Sigh - it's almost like being there. Those bus rides can be so insane. But, I guess it's all part of the experience.

[creativeamanda]

It' so great to hear more of your story. Sigh - it's almost like being there. Those bus rides can be so insane. But, I guess it's all part of the experience.

Wow. . .I see you will be there soon! I learned a lesson that week about what you should drive to and what you should ride the buses for.

MK, HS, EP--yes

AK, DTD, TL, BB--no

Unless you are going to DTD at night. Then you'd better not drive, because that place is in sore need of a parking garage! :rotfl:

[Incredimom3]

We live in Georgia, so we plan to use our car for everything except Magic Kingdom. When we were at Pop last year, we took the buses to MK, but the return was miserable. I also took a bus to and from DD and regretted it. Standing after a long day was hard. I wish that people had demonstrated more curtesy toward the families with small children. My kids are old enough to tough it out on a bus trip back to the resort, but I think it would be very nice if some of the men and boys would get up and offer their seats to ladies with small children. All in all though, I think it's so nice that people can come to a Disney resort and get around with the bus transportation. Did you use the boat transportation to DD? Was it nice?

[creativeamanda]

We live in Georgia, so we plan to use our car for everything except Magic Kingdom. When we were at Pop last year, we took the buses to MK, but the return was miserable. I also took a bus to and from DD and regretted it. Standing after a long day was hard. I wish that people had demonstrated more curtesy toward the families with small children. My kids are old enough to tough it out on a bus trip back to the resort, but I think it would be very nice if some of the men and boys would get up and offer their seats to ladies with small children. All in all though, I think it's so nice that people can come to a Disney resort and get around with the bus transportation. Did you use the boat transportation to DD? Was it nice?

We did not use the boat to DTD. The original plan was to do so--not sure why we didn't take the boat back instead of riding the bus--it would have saved so much more time!

I agree about showing curtesy to families with small children. I found that typically on the POR buses, though, this was not a problem. Oddly enough, I found it to be more of a problem on the buses we took to and from the Deluxe resorts.

[TarzansKat]

What a nice day!

Having only ridden TSM once (and with a fastpass), I've never been through the queue. I'd really love to see Mr. Potato Head and all the toy/game replicas. It looks amazing! I love Candyland when I was little...heck, I still love it! :goodvibes

[creativeamanda]

What a nice day!

Having only ridden TSM once (and with a fastpass), I've never been through the queue. I'd really love to see Mr. Potato Head and all the toy/game replicas. It looks amazing! I love Candyland when I was little...heck, I still love it! :goodvibes

Has your son started playing Candyland yet? Boo got it last year for Christmas and we had to play it 2-3 times daily in the beginning.

[PaMom001]

What nice pictures. I would love to go back to DisneyWorld again just DD & myself. I don't think that'll happen anytime soon. Maybe we'll go when she graduates High School.

[creativeamanda]

What nice pictures. I would love to go back to DisneyWorld again just DD & myself. I don't think that'll happen anytime soon. Maybe we'll go when she graduates High School.

We really need a Tagless girls-only trip and then you could bring her with you. . .I think that would be a great idea.

[creativeamanda]

After our little rest in the rooms, we went back to Hollywood Studios in hopes of seeing Fantasmic! Our hopes were slowly being swiped away as the clouds became darker and darker. Still, on we went to the park, figuring we could just wait it out. As we walked into the park, we took a picture of this and Gillian made a comment that was right on target. . .”That looks like it really should be in EPCOT”

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0358-1.jpg

I know that there is a reason for this in HS, but I really can’t remember what it is. . .:confused3

Five minutes into the Studios and this picture later:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Image1059.jpg

The heavens opened up and the bottom fell out. I frantically search for my poncho, which is no where to be found. Boo and Stinky find theirs, and Sweetie exclaims: It wouldn’t fit with my camera! :rotfl2: So off I trot into one of the shops to buy two ponchos. $13.00. For 2 ponchos. :scared1: I remember that price because I was shocked it was an even 13 bucks. Thoughts of Fantasmic are slowly slipping away at this moment, and my flip flops are getting soaked by the rain. So we decide the best thing to do is head into Voyage of the Little Mermaid. I won’t sing for you, but my 2nd favorite Disney song after Amy Adams’ “Happy Working Song” is “Part of Your World”. I think Jodi Benson does a spectacular job with it and no matter how old I get, I remember feeling that my parents well-meaning though they were, were out to hold me back as a child. I also thought the world out of my home was the best.

Well, after we walked out of Voyage of the Little Mermaid, it was still raining, but we could see people still going to Fantasmic. We decided to see if we could get a seat, but I warned that 30 minutes before the show we had a slim shot of it.

I was right. We were informed as we got there that there was standing room only for that performance. Knowing that it was still raining and that I did not fancy standing in the rain for 30 minutes only to be told the show was over, we decided to just walk around. I wasn’t too fussed about it at all—Fantasmic is something I had seen 2 times prior.
On the way out, I took this shot, because it looked so spooky at night. And no, I did not ride it, but I will in December.
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0362.jpg

It was here that I convinced Gillian that she had to see the Streets of America, where there was no one around, as the park was officially going to close soon. I was eerie, but beautiful at the same time. :lovestruc I thought of Anna as we got here.
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_03762.jpg

A kind CM from Great Britain offered to take a picture of all of us here. . .
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0380_edited-1.jpg

And my kids would totally love living in New York City if they could do this all the time. . .
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0384.jpg

Courtney loved this statue of Miss Piggy outside of Muppet 3D

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0386.jpg

Well, even though the rain was slowing and we could theoretically go to the second showing of Fantasmic that night, we decided to just turn in. We had rope drop the next morning to go to and we were simply cold (in June) from all the rain and Gillian was discovering the worst of walking around in wet tennis shoes—blisters. So we make our way back to the bus stop and here Fantasmic in the background. Still drizzling and still wet even with ponchos, the bus was freezing, but we got to the room and changed into night clothes and crashed.

Coming up. . .Rain, rain, go away. . .

[TarzansKat]

Has your son started playing Candyland yet? Boo got it last year for Christmas and we had to play it 2-3 times daily in the beginning.

Gosh, I can't remember when we got it, but yes, he was the same way! 2-3 times in a row, at least! :lmao:

Wow, did you get rained on! I get you on the poncho prices. One of the benefits of still bringing the stroller is that we always have a bag full of ponchos in the bottom compartment! You never know! :lmao:

[creativeamanda]

Gosh, I can't remember when we got it, but yes, he was the same way! 2-3 times in a row, at least! :lmao:

Wow, did you get rained on! I get you on the poncho prices. One of the benefits of still bringing the stroller is that we always have a bag full of ponchos in the bottom compartment! You never know! :lmao:

What's irritating is I could have bought 13 ponchos for the price of two! And come to think of it, we HAD 20 ponchos back in the room, because well, you never know. :rotfl: (Do I sound like Smileybug with the 15 sticks of deoderant or what)

[TarzansKat]

What's irritating is I could have bought 13 ponchos for the price of two! And come to think of it, we HAD 20 ponchos back in the room, because well, you never know. :rotfl: (Do I sound like Smileybug with the 15 sticks of deoderant or what)

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

I do have to say, Disney ponchos are my favorite by far. I can't even tell you how long we've had some of ours and they hold up so well!

[creativeamanda]

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

I do have to say, Disney ponchos are my favorite by far. I can't even tell you how long we've had some of ours and they hold up so well!

We have 2 Disney Ponchos and 1 Day out with Thomas Poncho in the closet. This trip, we're just going to pay the $13 for 2 more ponchos and be done with it. Or, since it is December, go ahead and bring out raincoats. . .which is something we in the South have all the time. . .

[PaMom001]

We really need a Tagless girls-only trip and then you could bring her with you. . .I think that would be a great idea.

OOoooooo, that would be nice. Except we don't do comando. If we get to the park around 9 am, we're doing ok.

[creativeamanda]

OOoooooo, that would be nice. Except we don't do comando. If we get to the park around 9 am, we're doing ok.

LOL, my days of getting to the park for rope drop are coming to a close. I grow weary of not sleeping in for vacation!

[creativeamanda]

We woke up Friday morning amid cloudy skies indeed. I'm not sure why we did not go to rope drop that morning, other than the fact that we were out so late the night before, but we didn't make it. It was okay, though. We needed some rest.

We figure it's a good time to head over to. . .


http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0412.jpg

the clouds look okay here, at first, but it was without warning that we saw. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0439.jpg

and then

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0447.jpg

Because of those clouds, we head over to the Character Spot.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0414.jpg

where I lost my lens cap from the camera (sorry, Tim, about yelling in your ear over it--I thought you were Dan trying to figure out why I wanted to talk to his BFF)

But after I lost it, I got these pictures. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0422.jpg

Don't ya just love Mickey?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0425.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0435.jpg


It's a good thing we went into the Character Spot, though, because it POURED while we were in there, and we were just hoping it would dtop before we got out.

We leave the Character Spot, where I have my aforementioned conversation with Tim over my lost lens cap and try to get another one at the camera shop. Note to Disney--a good thing to carry at the camera shop would be lenscaps--the CM there said she gets people in all the time who want to buy one, but they don't carry them! I would have gladly paid $20 (3 times what I paid at Best Buy for a new one) to protect my camera.

We decide after all of that that the best thing would be to head on over to the World Showcase, as we had lunch reservations at Tutto Italia. Going over that way, just standing all by herself was. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0444.jpg

Who was truly a sweetheart--and my girls' favorite princess.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0445.jpg

So, we were entering the World Showcase, it's not raining anymore, and we are getting really hungry. Really. But not before we took a trip half way around the world. . .

I love this troll. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0475.jpg

This is one of my favorites that I took. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0487.jpg

The girls at Tutto. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0499.jpg

By then, it was time to go back to the room to get ready for Typhoon Lagoon, so we took the bus over, where we met a surprise in the room. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0514.jpg

Isn't he cute?


After a quick call to dh to see if he made it to Pennsylvania okay, and a reminder that I need to take his babies to the water park, we got ready and headed over to Typhoon Lagoon. Where we encountered yet again, the adventures with the buses over to the DTD/Typhoon Lagoon area. I begged with Gillian the day before to let me drive, but she saw one car get turned away in the parking lot and 2pm and was spooked by it. No matter, it took us only about an hour to get there. The problem, however, was the fact that the clouds were starting to roll in. No matter, though. . .we were excited--we were going to the water park, something my kids, even though we live near Myrtle Beach, had never done.

So we walk in, and I have to say, Disney really can do some park theming! This park is awesome! Of course, when we went in, every few minutes we would hear a whistle and then screaming. . .it took us forever to realize it was the tidal wave! :rotfl2:

Now, I have to say, I totally refused to bring my own nice camera here, so Sweetie was kind enough to lend me hers--it's 5 years old, so if we lost it to water damage, it wouldn't be the end of the world.

Before going to rent a locker, we snap some shots:

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And then, we hit the slides. Now, I don't know about most people, but I found this water park to be the best one that I had been to to that date. And I was more than excited to see Photopass there, even though you can't tell who this is. I promise, it's Stinky and me.

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We then go around the lazy river a few times, and go to the wave pool. Where a disasterous thing happens. The wave is so strong, it knocks Stinky over, causing a huge abrasion on his foot. So I can say this, out of the 2 hours we spent at Typhoon Lagoon, I spent roughly 30 minutes going to and from First Aid. :sad2:

Stinky was told after being bandaged up that he should keep his foot dry. So, I go to tell Gillian and the girls that it's time to head out, leaving Stinky on someone else's chair so I could see him. (If it was yours, I'm sorry--he was only there for a minute and it was quite necessary)

I did take a couple more shots:

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So, we go back to the resort, because we are pooped for the day, and grab a quick bite for dinner at Riverside Mill. It is then that I break down and buy refillable mugs, which I swore I was not going to do. After shopping a little at Fultons, we go back to the room. I announce to the kids that it's time for me to have a few minutes to myself, and I head back over to Riverside Mill to refill the mugs, Fulton's for shopping, and by Muddy Waters for a little spiked lemonade. :rolleyes1

I then take our laundry to the coin laundry. By then it's almost 9pm, but I had to get some laundry done. Gillian watched the kids while I went over there. And that's when I got the infamous call. . .

DH, remember, had been in Pennsylvania at CigarFest, where he and his buddy Tim had VIP tickets. Which amounted to they had a ride to and from the hotel, free drinks, and they did not have to even go fill them up. Tim says Dan was fine until he had a Bud Light, but I don't know. Let me just say this: I am almost 35 years old and had gone through all of that time without having been drunk dialed. That is until the night of June 26, 2009. Here I am, in the coin laundry of Port Orleans-Riverside, cleaning his childrens' clothes, and he decides to call me. I admit, I spent a fair amount of time laughing. But then, I just wanted to do the laundry. So I told him to go to sleep. Next time he's like that, I want to be walking along with him around the World Showcase so I can watch him make a fool of himself. :rotfl2:

Anyway, I finish the laundry and then head over to bed. We had an early morninf the next day, because we were going to make it to rope drop.

Coming up--our second day at Epcot

[Incredimom3]

Great update, Amanda! I loved hearing about Typhoon Lagoon. It looks beatiful. Too bad about Stinky. My youngest seems to be a magnet for accidents too. We have reservations for Tutto Italia at lunchtime. Did you enjoy your meal. I've heard that the scenery is :woohoo:divine! Just wondering about the food.

[TarzansKat]

What a bummer about Stinky's foot at the water park! At least you had some fun beforehand, between the water park and the characters in Epcot! :goodvibes

And I'm :rotfl2: over the drunk dialing. I've gotten those before. Not from my husband ever, but from college friends. Hilarious. :lmao:

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

Great update!! Ugh so sorry about Stinky's foot! I've gotten a few abrasions from that wave pool as well but it's also my favorite wave pool! I love TL, I like it so much better than BB. Haha, my friends like to drunk dial me sometimes and I just have to laugh because they're such idiots, although it is much more fun to see them drunk, so much more fun!

[creativeamanda]

Great update, Amanda! I loved hearing about Typhoon Lagoon. It looks beatiful. Too bad about Stinky. My youngest seems to be a magnet for accidents too. We have reservations for Tutto Italia at lunchtime. Did you enjoy your meal. I've heard that the scenery is :woohoo:divine! Just wondering about the food.

We loved Tutto . . . so much so that we want to do it for the Candlelight Processional. The food is awesome, and coming from someone who is not Italian but cooks mostly Italian food, I am a huge critic.

What a bummer about Stinky's foot at the water park! At least you had some fun beforehand, between the water park and the characters in Epcot! :goodvibes

And I'm :rotfl2: over the drunk dialing. I've gotten those before. Not from my husband ever, but from college friends. Hilarious. :lmao:

Stinky was fine. He's just a little overly dramatic. :rotfl2: You'd expect it from girls, but he's, well, him.

And the drunk dialing. I still cannot believe he did that. I sat in the laundry room and could do nothing but laugh. DH is normally a mild mannered person, but he gains a sense of humor like no other when he's a bit inebriated. Tim, his friend, is also a DIS member and he might have to chime in here. Let's just say, it was beyond the most hilarious thing I've ever heard from him. . .

Great update!! Ugh so sorry about Stinky's foot! I've gotten a few abrasions from that wave pool as well but it's also my favorite wave pool! I love TL, I like it so much better than BB. Haha, my friends like to drunk dial me sometimes and I just have to laugh because they're such idiots, although it is much more fun to see them drunk, so much more fun!

I wish I could have seen him. They say he wanted to join the dancers on the stage. . .I was just sitting there, laughing my behind off, thinking, "He's so going to regret this in the morning." :rotfl2:

It's funny, I saw all kinds of people waling around TL with those same band-aids from first aid on legs, feet, and even backs. There should be a warning on that thing! Seriously, though, we loved TL. . .the Lazy River there is by far the best!

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

I wish I could have seen him. They say he wanted to join the dancers on the stage. . .I was just sitting there, laughing my behind off, thinking, "He's so going to regret this in the morning." :rotfl2:

It's funny, I saw all kinds of people waling around TL with those same band-aids from first aid on legs, feet, and even backs. There should be a warning on that thing! Seriously, though, we loved TL. . .the Lazy River there is by far the best!



Oh god, I'm sure that would have been something to see!! :rotfl: Haha, well he had fun!! Haha, I've gotten some battle injuries from the wave pool! Oh I love the lazy river, just in a different way than the wave pool!!

[tbtdawg]

And the drunk dialing. I still cannot believe he did that. I sat in the laundry room and could do nothing but laugh. DH is normally a mild mannered person, but he gains a sense of humor like no other when he's a bit inebriated. Tim, his friend, is also a DIS member and he might have to chime in here. Let's just say, it was beyond the most hilarious thing I've ever heard from him. . .



I wish I could have seen him. They say he wanted to join the dancers on the stage. . .I was just sitting there, laughing my behind off, thinking, "He's so going to regret this in the morning." :rotfl2:


I can't even describe how funny it was. I've know him almost 30 years and never have I seen like that or laughed so hard. Later that night I had to "escort" him back to the room. You should have seen him "asleep" on the bed when I got back to the room.

[creativeamanda]

Oh god, I'm sure that would have been something to see!! :rotfl: Haha, well he had fun!! Haha, I've gotten some battle injuries from the wave pool! Oh I love the lazy river, just in a different way than the wave pool!!

The nurse in First Aid said 90% of the injuries she sees are abrasions from the wave pool. I'm not surprised. That thing should come with a warning. :rotfl2:

I can't even describe how funny it was. I've know him almost 30 years and never have I seen like that or laughed so hard. Later that night I had to "escort" him back to the room. You should have seen him "asleep" on the bed when I got back to the room.

Then you witnessed something I first saw in college. :rotfl2: And why on earth did you not take pictures, hmmmm? At least I could have some blackmail. :lmao: Either way, thanks, Tim, for watching out for my husband that night.

[Captdonswife]

Just found and read your trip report! Can't wait til the next post. I have a grandson that has a pea sized bladder as well, so I know what you are talking about! Its hard to get everything into a day if you are having to stop every 30 minutes! You have a cute family and what a trooper Gillian is to go along!

Vicky

[creativeamanda]

Just found and read your trip report! Can't wait til the next post. I have a grandson that has a pea sized bladder as well, so I know what you are talking about! Its hard to get everything into a day if you are having to stop every 30 minutes! You have a cute family and what a trooper Gillian is to go along!

Vicky

:welcome: I am so glad you are here!

[creativeamanda]

So, after another quiet restful night at POR (well, not so quite and restful . . . remember the phone call?!? :rotfl: We, uhm, slide out of bed for another day at EPCOT. By this time, the continuous going and the heat is getting to getting to us. Not to mention the fact that all of us are cooped up in the same room. Gillian and I are a lot alike. Needless to say, it has its advantages and disadvantages. The major disadvantage is, I annoy myself sometimes. :rotfl2: Either way, we decide it's a good day to ride some rides in Future World and then split up for the rest of the day until dinner. Sometimes for the good of the friendship, you have to do that.

Anyway, we decide we've had enough of Disney transportation and I drive to EPCOT that morning. We get there in time to be close to the front near the turnstiles for rope drop and then wait. And wait. Did I ever mention, the sun can get really hot in Epcot on a late June Florida morning?

We finally get in after to get to rope drop and we go over to the Test Track/Mission Space side, since we had done Soarin' a couple of times already. And I see. . .

my absolute favorite--Minnie Mouse

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We then walk with the crowd going to Test Track, and still somehow I get all turned around. This never happens to me, so it was actually frightening and disorienting for me. Being the daughter of a road construction supervisor, growing up I saw nothing but maps and directions come natural to me.

But we get where we are supposed to be okay. . .

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This was my first time on Test Track and I :lovestrucloved it!

The kids came out and played a little in the car area. . .

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We loved it so much, we got fastpasses for later.

And we walked over to the Land. We rode Soarin' and then went to Living with the Land. I always find this fascinating and someday would love to do a Behind the Seeds Tour. Growing up on a farm and living on one now, I just think it would be awesome.

I just need a few of these bananas

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Earning my ears. . .

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By this time, it was 11am as we had done a little shopping in Mouse Gears before walking of to the Land, so we stopped for lunch at Sunshine Seasons. Then I got fastpasses for Soarin for the kids and me and we went back over to Test Track to use our fastpasses. We get into the holding room at TT and the ride goes down. :sad2: We were all willing to wait, and did so. For 45 minutes. Then, all of the sudden, Stinky says, "I have to go to the bathroom." :eek: It was a waste of a fastpass, but we exited the line, took Stinky to the restroom, and decided to part ways from Gillian for a while. She wanted to meet characters. We wanted to ride Mission: Space. See, Gillian gets a little mition sickeness, so Mission: Space is not a good ride for her.

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We went over to the green side, as Stinky, remember, hates roller coasters, (I will ride the Orange in December with the girls), and coming out they play for about 30 minutes in the play area. Then, we go out to the gift shop, for this picture,

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and proceed to their favorite--the water fountains in Epcot.

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And of course, by the time all of this has happened, we can get another fast pass. So we do. For Test Track, after seeing the ride is up and moving again.

And we know that it's time to go over to the World Shocase to do their Kidcot masks. But before we leave Future World entirely, a wonderful opportunity comes around. . .

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coming up, the World Showcase, another trip to the Ministry of Magic, and AFLAC!

[PaMom001]

What wonderful pictures. I love the one of the veggies.

[MrsSpratt]

Hi, Amanda -

I have been following along LOVING IT, I just have been quiet.

Until now.

I have to admit, I think your husband's drunk dialing (ESPECIALLY if he has never done it before...) is kinda' cute. It shows he was letting go, letting loose, and I'm willing to bet if you weren't stuck doing laundry, you would think it was cute, too. As you WERE doing laundry, I'd be a bit miffed, just on principle. Now if it was habitual....bleah.

And Crossroads of the World is a famous development in Hollywood. Charlie Chaplin had his office there, and it is really really adorable - it looks like a bunch of Snow White cottages.

Your children are precious! Love the trip report!

Mrs. Spratt

[creativeamanda]

What wonderful pictures. I love the one of the veggies.

Thanks! I'm sure that you'd love the Behind the Seeds Tour seeing as how you love the alpaca farm so much! Another thing that should be on our tagless trip to do list. . .:rolleyes1

Hi, Amanda -

I have been following along LOVING IT, I just have been quiet.

Until now.

I have to admit, I think your husband's drunk dialing (ESPECIALLY if he has never done it before...) is kinda' cute. It shows he was letting go, letting loose, and I'm willing to bet if you weren't stuck doing laundry, you would think it was cute, too. As you WERE doing laundry, I'd be a bit miffed, just on principle. Now if it was habitual....bleah.

And Crossroads of the World is a famous development in Hollywood. Charlie Chaplin had his office there, and it is really really adorable - it looks like a bunch of Snow White cottages.

Your children are precious! Love the trip report!

Mrs. Spratt

No--he has never drunk dialed before. Never. I think I was less miffed than surprised! :rotfl2: THe only thing I wish now is that either TBTDawg (who was actually with him at the time) or I had recorded it.

Thanks for the information regarding the Crossroads of the World. I remember all of that now, but for the life of me, it had slipped my mind completely.

Thanks about the complement about my kids--they are my world. :lovestruc

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

That last picture is such a good one, what a great photo op!! So glad you liked test track, it's one of my favorites!!

[tinkgurl]

I've never been to any of the water parks before, so thanks for those pics! I think I'd be just in the lazy river the whole time! :laughing:

[TarzansKat]

Without a doubt, some of my favorite pictures of the kids are from this chapter! First of all, they're adorable. And I love to see kids just being kids, having a great time in that fountain area. It's wonderful. :goodvibes

And why oh why are we hinting at Aflac? :lmao:

[creativeamanda]

That last picture is such a good one, what a great photo op!! So glad you liked test track, it's one of my favorites!!

I loved TT--I don't know why we did not get to it last year! It took a little coaxing to get all three of them to cooperate for that picture. I had to many to choose from for photobucket. :rotfl2:

I've never been to any of the water parks before, so thanks for those pics! I think I'd be just in the lazy river the whole time! :laughing:

DH is like that about lazy rivers--we actually used it for transport from the front to the back of the park.

Without a doubt, some of my favorite pictures of the kids are from this chapter! First of all, they're adorable. And I love to see kids just being kids, having a great time in that fountain area. It's wonderful. :goodvibes

And why oh why are we hinting at Aflac? :lmao:

:rotfl2: That update should come soon. Suffice it to say, my most embarrasing moment. . .

I love those pictures at the fountains, too. Of course, what I didn't mention was the fact that I made them all change socks after coming out of those fountains. Gillian by this time had blisters on top of blisters from walking in wet shoes. Being an adult, she was able to tough it out, but kids aren't like that. A blister on Stinky's foot would have put him out of commission.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Ok...read all the way through...now following the TR and the PTR!!! LOL

[creativeamanda]

Ok...read all the way through...now following the TR and the PTR!!! LOL

Welcome to you!!!! :banana: I love having more readers!

[creativeamanda]

The last we discussed, I was heading over to the World Showcase for my first ever tour without adult beverages. After all, I was alone with the kids! And dh, of course, had shown me how stupid you can get on them. :rotfl2:

The kids were enjoying their day, and I was ready to take on the world!

We enter the World Showcase for their favorite Epcot activity. . .Kidcot

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Now, I will admit, I have scoffed ever so slightly about Kidcot and how much time it takes up. But it really makes for a leisurely trek around the World Showcase that I would recommend to any parent. You can run in, get the tag, let the kids sit and color for a bit, and then visit a shop or two. It really makes Epcot more relaxing and you don't realize while you are doing it that you are actually walking 10 million miles that day. :rotfl2:

That being said, I'll admit to something. . .EPCOT is my favorite park. It is the one park where there is really something for everyone. Fun in the form of water activities, rides, kidcot (in both the WS and FW) for kids and culture and "adult" rides for adults. But I digress. After all, at this point, we are all into this. . .

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Now, I'll give you all a hint here. The markers in Kidcot are Sharpies and many of them need to be replaced. This is so much the case, that we are bringing our own markers this coming trip. Just a little warning for you mamas out there.

So we're in EPCOT, and the kids are magnetized to something they wanted to do the day prior, but we could not because we needed to get to Tutto Italia. . .the drums at the African Outpost.

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And then, we are on our way through the Showcase and to my personal favorite attraction. . .the American pavilion and the Voices of Liberty.

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Now if you have never experienced the Voices of Liberty, you just must. It's an acapella group who does patriotic favorites, such as "Old Mac Donald". During this song, instead of one of the guys singing that the duck says "quack", he says "AFLAC".

Which is where this guy comes in. As we settle in, the kids pick a nice spot up front.

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We have a great view of the singers on their left front side. I am enjoying their music, which, IMO, is one of the best at Disney World. And I mean, we have good seats. . .

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And this guy, over here on the right, is the one who sings, "Aflac". I also have never been to one of these shows where at least one of the singers was not pregnant. . .

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So, anyway, they have started singing, "Oh Susanna", when I realize something. . .the guy who sings "AFLAC" grabs a person out of the audience to sing "Susanna" to, and I am right smack there where he goes. I tried inching to the left, hoping he's pick one of my girls. No such luck. He makes a beeline directly for me.

The kids get a good laugh, because I don't do too well with being singled out, and afterwards, he thanks me for being a good sport and I let him know that their performance is one of my Disney top to dos every trip. If you've never seen them, make it a point next trip.

So off we are around the WS again, and the kids were getting a little hungry, so we stopped at the Boulangerie Patisserie. Can I say, YUM!?! It was crowded, very little seating outside, but we were able to find a spot in the end. And yes, even inside the store, the tables were full. . .

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My little chocoholic. . .

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So we are off again, and to Great Britain. I have never really explored this area until this trip. I am so glad I did. I love the garden. . .

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And of course, we have to take another trip to the Ministry of Magic. Apparently, they were not accepting visitors at the time, however. . .

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After all of this, we go over to the Seas to meet up with Gillian for dinner at Coral Reef. Although this has been one of my favorite locations, and we got good views of the diving, there was a fishy odor in the restaurant that made me feel quite ill. I don't think we'll be back, but I also think we should try new places, anyway. . .

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And before we knew it, the day was basically over. Although I still did not see Illuminations, we were so tired we needed to go back to the room. One last view of Spaceship Earth, though, and we were gone.

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Coming up . . . a break for shopping updates. . .

[vamassey1]

Great update! My daughter completed a mask for the first time. I have to admit I've never seen Voices of Liberty but now I'm going to put this on my must do list for the next trip.

[creativeamanda]

Great update! My daughter completed a mask for the first time. I have to admit I've never seen Voices of Liberty but now I'm going to put this on my must do list for the next trip.

Thanks! I love Voices of Liberty. I never hear or read anything about them from others, but it's one of those off the beaten path things that we just stumbled upon our first trip.

[vamassey1]

I wanted to ask, where are you from in South Carolina? We lived there from 1986 until 1992. My middle child was born there.

[TarzansKat]

What a great day in Epcot! It sounds like you had a fun filled, and yet relaxing day!

You know, I don't remember if I've ever seen Voices of Liberty, perhaps we should try to catch them next time. :goodvibes

[LegoMom3]

Great update! Love the pictures, as usual!:flower3:

I LOVE the performances in the American pavilion. Have you seen the Fife and Drum Corp? Fantastic!!

So glad you got to see more Great Britain!! That's a must for us every time. The gardens are gorgeous. Last trip we were treated to the British Invasion, a Beatles tribute band. They are SO good. My kids loved them and wanted to line up for their autographs after the performance!

.

[creativeamanda]

I wanted to ask, where are you from in South Carolina? We lived there from 1986 until 1992. My middle child was born there.

Maybe the question should be where I haven't lived in SC--I was born in Charleston, have lived in Saluda, Columbia, Abbeville, Winnsboro, and Dillon.

What a great day in Epcot! It sounds like you had a fun filled, and yet relaxing day!

You know, I don't remember if I've ever seen Voices of Liberty, perhaps we should try to catch them next time. :goodvibes

They are awesome, I'll tell you! And on a hot, hot day, because it is inside, it is a welcome rest.

Great update! Love the pictures, as usual!:flower3:

I LOVE the performances in the American pavilion. Have you seen the Fife and Drum Corp? Fantastic!!

So glad you got to see more Great Britain!! That's a must for us every time. The gardens are gorgeous. Last trip we were treated to the British Invasion, a Beatles tribute band. They are SO good. My kids loved them and wanted to line up for their autographs after the performance!

.


First of all, thanks. I love my camera. . .it is soooo awesome! I'm going to get a new lens for it before the Christmas visit. I already have my sights on one, but think I'm going to wait until the day after Thanksgiving, hoping I can get a good deal.

I love the Fife and Drum Corp, too, but it was sooo hot that day. I just wanted to get some refreshment from the Boulangerie Patisserie.

I loved Great Britain, too!

[vamassey1]

Maybe the question should be where I haven't lived in SC--I was born in Charleston, have lived in Saluda, Columbia, Abbeville, Winnsboro, and Dillon.

Wow we just lived in Columbia.

[creativeamanda]

Wow we just lived in Columbia.

lol, i lived 17 years in Saluda, 1 in Charleston, 4 in Abbeville, 3 in Winnsboro, 2 in Dillon.

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

I love the Voices of Liberty!! They are just amazing!! Haha, my mom would have eaten that up being picked to dance, they on her must dos as well! She's the kind of person who volunteers to be picked in the Indiana Jones Show (and yes she's done it twice!!) I love walking around WS and exploring, there's so much to see (and buy!)

[tinkgurl]

I love listening to the Voices of Liberty. We haven't done that in a few years, I think we need to go do that! Too bad one of the kids didn't get a pic of you being picked! :laughing:

[creativeamanda]

I love the Voices of Liberty!! They are just amazing!! Haha, my mom would have eaten that up being picked to dance, they on her must dos as well! She's the kind of person who volunteers to be picked in the Indiana Jones Show (and yes she's done it twice!!) I love walking around WS and exploring, there's so much to see (and buy!)

My BIL is like that--dancing and acting like a not to try to get them to pick him for Indiana Jones.

I love listening to the Voices of Liberty. We haven't done that in a few years, I think we need to go do that! Too bad one of the kids didn't get a pic of you being picked! :laughing:

I do wish they got a picture of me--my face must have turned 15 shades of red.

[creativeamanda]

So, no trip to Disney World would be complete without a good shopping trip or five. I dare not even count the number of times we shopped, but I have to tell you, I had to shop at several stores to get the entire collection of these. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706002.jpg

I think I bought one at the Contemporary, a couple outside of Test Track, one in Downtown Disney, and one at Fultons in POR.

But they make such a nice addition to the Focus, don't they?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706001.jpg

DH says there are more stickers than should actually fit on my car. :rotfl2:

And there is another thing I have to admit. I have an obsession with Pins. Not pin trading, as I hardly ever trade--I can't bear to part with any of my pins. My obsession is totally with pins and only with pins.

And I spent a lot of money on them this trip. The good thing is, they are the one souveneir that fits well in a suitcase and does not take up a lot of space at home.

My collection of pins for each park. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706004.jpg

I took a fancy to these.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706005.jpg

The charm I got--I love the 4 Parks One World Theme

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706006.jpg

And I did get one for dh, my local Red Sox fan. This brings his total number of pins to 2.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706007.jpg

I wish now I had gotten one of those for myself, as well.

The kids are also all into the pins.

Sweeties. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706008.jpg

Stinky's. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706009.jpg

Boo's. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/20090706010.jpg

And my total number of pins?

32.

I've got some work to still do. . .:rotfl2:

Here is my pin area, though, near my computer and scrapbooking area.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0011-1.jpg

They are where I can always see them. And yes, there is a lime green Mickey and a luggage tag there, too. It's always close to me.

[PaMom001]

What a great update.....I can't wait till DD & I can go.

[vamassey1]

We love the pins too. I don't really have any but Danielle has 3 lanyards full. Michelle just has a bunch of Belle pins. I did get a Dream Lanyard with the 2 pins back in 2007.

You're a scrapbooker!!!! Me too.

[creativeamanda]

What a gret update.....I can't wait till DD & I can go.

My next trip is going to be just me and dd10. I don't know when--probably for her 11th bday--we can go to Harry Potter Island of Adventure, too, for her 11th--how symbolic would that be?

I still say we all need to take our daughters for a Tagless trip sometime--Legomom can borrow one of my girls.

We love the pins too. I don't really have any but Danielle has 3 lanyards full. Michelle just has a bunch of Belle pins. I did get a Dream Lanyard with the 2 pins back in 2007.

You're a scrapbooker!!!! Me too.

Ya have to buy the pins. :rotfl2: (Sort of like Seinfeld and "Ya have to see that ba---by!) Really, I like them because for the most part they are affordable--most under $15 so they also make a good gift for the dog sitter and whatnot--and then because they fit into luggage perfectly.

I am hooked on scrapbooking, but need to do some catching up--hopefully I will next weekend, because we have a trip to Charleston Labor day weekend and I'll have lots of pics from that.

[vamassey1]

Ya have to buy the pins. :rotfl2: (Sort of like Seinfeld and "Ya have to see that ba---by!) Really, I like them because for the most part they are affordable--most under $15 so they also make a good gift for the dog sitter and whatnot--and then because they fit into luggage perfectly.

I am hooked on scrapbooking, but need to do some catching up--hopefully I will next weekend, because we have a trip to Charleston Labor day weekend and I'll have lots of pics from that.

If you're ever interested I belong to Disney scrabooking swapping group. Two loves combined.

[jenjolt]

I love souvenir posts!! I just love to see what people have bought and add things to my wish list!! I'm a lot like you in that when I buy a pin I buy it for me not to trade!! This trip is one of the only times I have bought pins with the purpose of trading in hopes of finding pins that I want to keep YAY!!!!!

Great update!!

[TarzansKat]

I love your stickers on the back of your car! I think those are so cute. :goodvibes

And I used to be totally obsessed with pins, so I get it. I just had too many...although...probably not 32, so I bow to your shopping prowess. :worship:

You mentioned the LGMH in the background? Have you made one of those as a tag so other DISers can recognize you? I really need to get cracking and make some for my upcoming trip, but I'm not sure how to go about it. :goodvibes

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Great update! Epcot is also my favorite! I just love walking through all the countries and exploring everything they have to offer!

[creativeamanda]

If you're ever interested I belong to Disney scrabooking swapping group. Two loves combined.

That would be great!

I love souvenir posts!! I just love to see what people have bought and add things to my wish list!! I'm a lot like you in that when I buy a pin I buy it for me not to trade!! This trip is one of the only times I have bought pins with the purpose of trading in hopes of finding pins that I want to keep YAY!!!!!

Great update!!

Thanks. I love to add to my wish list, as well. And I love my pins. They remind me so much of the good times there.

I love your stickers on the back of your car! I think those are so cute. :goodvibes

And I used to be totally obsessed with pins, so I get it. I just had too many...although...probably not 32, so I bow to your shopping prowess. :worship:

You mentioned the LGMH in the background? Have you made one of those as a tag so other DISers can recognize you? I really need to get cracking and make some for my upcoming trip, but I'm not sure how to go about it. :goodvibes

Shopping prowess? DH calls it an obsession. To-MAY-toe/To-MAH-toe. . .

As far as the LGMH goes, I have been wearing them with my DIS username on it. I was thinking of skipping out on it next time, as no one ever seems to notice it. Just one less thing to carry, KWIM?

Great update! Epcot is also my favorite! I just love walking through all the countries and exploring everything they have to offer!

EPCOT is awesome--really is something for everyone.

[Seewhatimesdone]

I just caught up! What a great trip report. You have such wonderful children. The trip looked like a blast!

[creativeamanda]

I just caught up! What a great trip report. You have such wonderful children. The trip looked like a blast!

ANNA!!!! Thanks, hunny--we had such a blast!

[creativeamanda]

I said that earlier in the week, the best water park I had ever been to was Typhoon Lagoon. Minus Stinky's foray into the wade pool and trip to First Aid, I could stay there all day. I mean, the tropical scenes, the foliage, the surf, the stairs, the stairs, the stairs. Stair Climbers have nothing on Typhoon Lagoon.

That was until I went to the "polar opposite" (thanks Stacy) of waterparks--Blizzard Beach.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSCN3410.jpg



I can already tell you why the locals love Blizzard Beach more: The chair lift. AHHHH. . .What a heavenly and wonderful idea! On Sunday morning, we jump up, take much less time getting ready, as we were donning swimsuits, and travel to Blizzard Beach. I understand why this is typically the park open during the winter months--with the Christmas-y theming, it's the logical choice. I mean, Disney doesn't have to decorate this park for Christmas--I'm sure it saves them a whole bunch of moola.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSCN3411.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSCN3415.jpg

So we head into Blizzard beach and we go straight to Teamboat Springs. Loved IT! Loved being with everyone in the same raft. Loved seeing my girls faces, and loved ending up in an area that everyone could get out easily.

We loved all of the rides/slides there. Of course, we did NOT do the Humonga Kowabunga, our however that's spelled. I'm not big on big drops, and when there is no raft or whatnot to help, my answer is not no, but. . .well, you get the idea.

We spent about 1 and a half hours there--we arrived at rope drop, but had 1:30 reservations for lunch and wanted to get back to the room to change clothes. Thanks heavens I was driving that day. :rolleyes1

So we returned to the room to get dressed, and headed over to Hollywood Studios. This was a huge departure from our original plans--we were going to go to Animal Kingdom that day, but felt like in the rain we had missed a lot. The next night at Animal Kingdom was an evening emh day, so, we thought changing plans would not be that bad. So we called Disney Dining the day before and make lunch reservations for Mama Melrose's on Sunday and reservations for the Grand Floridian Cafe on Monday.

And on to Hollywood Studios we went.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_08742.jpg

We spent some time in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie set, where I watched the children LIKE A HAWK!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0800.jpg

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http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0821.jpg

Then, we went on to Narnia :lovestruc to see Prince Caspian.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0827.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_08292.jpg

And I got some pictures of the Stone Table before I was told to turn off the flash--I thought it was just for the show, not as you were coming in. Sorry, CM!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0834.jpg

Then, we got in line for pictures with the Toy Story characters before literally running to lunch. We were real close to first in line, so we did not have much of a wait.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_08622.jpg





Coming up. . .It's a Block! It's a Party! What a Bash!

[vamassey1]

Great update! Boy you had a busy day. We hit Blizzard Beach in 2007 and loved it. Haven't been to Typhon Lagoon yet so I don't know how they compare. We were in DHS that day too. I'm checking your pictures to see if we're in the background.

[TarzansKat]

Wow, Blizzard Beach sounds like so much fun! I'm glad you enjoyed it! :goodvibes

[LegoMom3]

I have been to the Disney water parks once each, on the same trip. This was waaaaaay back when it was just me and DH (gee, we had a life before the kids?!!...:rotfl:). I LOVED Typhoon Lagoon. Blizzard Beach, not so much.... A trip around the lazy river loses its relaxation factor when the dripping and misting water is FREEZING COLD!!! And most of all, I couldn't figure out the appeal of coming to Florida to a water park that reminded me of winter at home.

Fast forward 13 years.....I've now spent a summer in Florida/Texas. I get the appeal of Blizzard Beach!!!:rotfl2:

Didn't you love Prince Caspian?!...:love: Dude.

.

[tinkgurl]

Okay..please forgive me...what day is this of your trip?

[creativeamanda]

Great update! Boy you had a busy day. We hit Blizzard Beach in 2007 and loved it. Haven't been to Typhon Lagoon yet so I don't know how they compare. We were in DHS that day too. I'm checking your pictures to see if we're in the background.

There are more DHS pictures to come! Did you do Fantasmic! that night?

Wow, Blizzard Beach sounds like so much fun! I'm glad you enjoyed it! :goodvibes

Thanks, TK! When you go in late June, you need a bit of water to help.

I have been to the Disney water parks once each, on the same trip. This was waaaaaay back when it was just me and DH (gee, we had a life before the kids?!!...:rotfl:). I LOVED Typhoon Lagoon. Blizzard Beach, not so much.... A trip around the lazy river loses its relaxation factor when the dripping and misting water is FREEZING COLD!!! And most of all, I couldn't figure out the appeal of coming to Florida to a water park that reminded me of winter at home.

Fast forward 13 years.....I've now spent a summer in Florida/Texas. I get the appeal of Blizzard Beach!!!:rotfl2:

Didn't you love Prince Caspian?!...:love: Dude.

.

There was a time that it was just me and dh? Hmmm. . .I wonder what that was like. I can see how you weren't fond of BB coming from up North. The Floridians love it and I can see why.

Okay..please forgive me...what day is this of your trip?

This was Sunday, June 28. I think I got ahead of you. . .

[vamassey1]

There are more DHS pictures to come! Did you do Fantasmic! that night?

No we did it Tuesday June 23rd. But we did do Block Party Bash! You couldn't miss us that day. We were all wearing our lime green Disney shirts for the the Disney Store.

[creativeamanda]

No we did it Tuesday June 23rd. But we did do Block Party Bash! You couldn't miss us that day. We were all wearing our lime green Disney shirts for the the Disney Store.

OMG! I saw ya'll! Boo says, "Mommy, they have the same shirts we do!" Was it hot or what at BPB?!? I thought we were going to roast, but I had not seen BPB.

[vamassey1]

OMG! I saw ya'll! Boo says, "Mommy, they have the same shirts we do!" Was it hot or what at BPB?!? I thought we were going to roast, but I had not seen BPB.

How Neat! We lucked out and got a spot in the shade on the step for the AI theater. While we waited we enjoyed some blue raspberry icees. This our first time seeing it and I don't care what every one else says we liked it.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Mmmmmm...Mama Melrose's! Love it there! Can't wait to hear what you thought!

[Seewhatimesdone]

Whoa I definitely did not see Prince Caspian there ;)

[creativeamanda]

I promise I have not forgotten my trip report. I just, uhm, have been real busy.

With 35 screaming cheerleaders!

So, I'll finish out June 28 at Hollywood Studios. . .

After a great lunch at Mama Melrose's, we strolled over to see Block Party Bash. We parked it right in front of Mickey's Sorcerer's hat, and we therefore got a great view of the "A Bug's Life" group.

Now, you will have to know a little background here. When Sweetie was about 3, we bought the movie, A Bug's Life. She started watching it. Alot. For three solid months, the only thing on television in our house was either that movie or The Prince of Egypt. I promise I'm not lying. She'd get up and the first thing she would say was, "I wanna see Flick." I honestly wish I was joking about this, but I'm not. That girl was a Flick-o-holic.

And to some extent, she still likes that movie. See what I mean?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_09542.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_09552.jpg

But they were really very close to us!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_09692.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0943.jpg

And in honor of Legomom, we got a picture of Elastigirl. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0986.jpg

Now, this show was at 3:00pm, remember. And we learned a valuable lesson. . .3:00pm show+June 28 in Florida=H-O-T. Learn that equation. It's a valuable one.

Before the parade was over and because it was right behind us, we ran (LITERALLY) over to Min and Bill's to get some frozen lemonade.

I mean, that was the best thing ever! And then we thought we could handle indoor entertainment, so we split from Gillian, who wanted to see more characters, and rode The Great Movie Ride again, where we saw the second show. :banana:

We then decided to go over to see Indiana Jones and watch the stunts. I love this scene. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0005.jpg

We finally met up with Gillian again for dinner at the Backlot Express (yummy french fries, guys!), and rode TSM with a fastpass we obviously got when we came in. And then, we went to see Fantasmic!

It was early but we got great seats and needed the rest. I remember the kids being thirsty and spending like $6 on 2 waters. :scared1:

While waiting, we clowned around with the camera. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_00242.jpg

The kids played on my Blackberry. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0047.jpg

And I took one of my favorite pictures with Boo. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0027.jpg

And out of no where, it started. Fantasmic! really is an awesome show--one of my dh's favorites. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0105.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0106-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0129.jpg

And the cool thing is, Illuminations was going on at the same time, and I shot this picture:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0135.jpg

Then, out of nowhere, the night was over. We returned to the room and crashed. We knew we were in for a long day the next day.

Gillian was starting to be in great pain, as her blisters were getting worse and worse. :sad2: But we had Animal Kingdom EMH to look forward to!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

YAY!!!! So glad to see you are back! I was getting worried!

[creativeamanda]

YAY!!!! So glad to see you are back! I was getting worried!

Well, thanks for thinking of me. :goodvibes

[LegoMom3]

I promise I have not forgotten my trip report. I just, uhm, have been real busy.

With 35 screaming cheerleaders!

All I can offer is this: :hug:

:rotfl:


And in honor of Legomom, we got a picture of Elastigirl. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0986.jpg


Well how cool is THAT?!!.... :flower3: And how cool is it that as I'm sitting here reading this latest installment and happening upon this little gem, that I'm also wearing my ElastiGirl t-shirt that I made for our trip last year?!! Have I mentioned I love The Incredibles?.....:rolleyes:



Now, this show was at 3:00pm, remember. And we learned a valuable lesson. . .3:00pm show+June 28 in Florida=H-O-T. Learn that equation. It's a valuable one.

Ain't that the truth!...:eek: Although, now that I'm looking through here I'm realizing that I have never seen the afternoon parade at DHS....


We finally met up with Gillian again for dinner at the Backlot Express (yummy french fries, guys!), and rode TSM with a fastpass we obviously got when we came in. And then, we went to see Fantasmic!

.....and I have never seen Fantasmic!.....

Well that is just WRONG!!


And I took one of my favorite pictures with Boo. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0027.jpg


But this just so right!....how sweet!!


But we had Animal Kingdom EMH to look forward to!

Oooh!!....can't wait for that one! :cool1:
.

[creativeamanda]

All I can offer is this: :hug:

:rotfl:

Thanks--I need it




Well how cool is THAT?!!.... :flower3: And how cool is it that as I'm sitting here reading this latest installment and happening upon this little gem, that I'm also wearing my ElastiGirl t-shirt that I made for our trip last year?!! Have I mentioned I love The Incredibles?.....:rolleyes:

I don't know if that's cool or too coincidental to be! When I saw here, I remember thinking, "I gotta get a picture of that for Legomom!"





Ain't that the truth!...:eek: Although, now that I'm looking through here I'm realizing that I have never seen the afternoon parade at DHS....




.....and I have never seen Fantasmic!.....

Well that is just WRONG!!

You NEED to do both! But in your defense, I seem to remember the great deluge last year when you wanted to go to Fantasmic!


But this just so right!....how sweet!!

I love that picture



Oooh!!....can't wait for that one! :cool1:

I can't either, but I have laundry to do that's calling my name! "Amanda--come clean us", it says! :rotfl2:
.
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[vamassey1]

Great pictures! I really liked this parade. We had the Monster characters in front of us. Our Green Army Man was a hoot.

[TarzansKat]

I have a confession. I've never seen that parade.

:::runs to duck and cover:::

:rotfl2:

I've heard it's really good, we're just always doing something. I should make a point of it, it really looks like fun! And I would soooo love a Frozen Lemonade right now. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

Great pictures! I really liked this parade. We had the Monster characters in front of us. Our Green Army Man was a hoot.

Watching the green Army Man was awesome--I couldn't even believe all of that he had to go through to be dressed like that to begin with, and then he is just awesome!

I have a confession. I've never seen that parade.

:::runs to duck and cover:::

:rotfl2:

I've heard it's really good, we're just always doing something. I should make a point of it, it really looks like fun! And I would soooo love a Frozen Lemonade right now. :thumbsup2

It is fun, but I would NOT recommend it in 95+ degree Florida sun. The Frozen Lemonade was a welcome treat after that!

[DisneyFaeriePrincess]

Great update!! Very cute pictures!! Ahhh I've learned that afternoon parade equation very well, too many times sitting in the hot sun for a parade!!

[creativeamanda]

Monday, June 29, 2009. . .we break a tradition. It's a funny little one, but we break it, nonetheless. . .

No, we go to rope drop.

No, we know it's gonna be rainy. . .

We (meaning the kids and I) get up and go to breakfast. And yes, I pay for the whole thing out of pocket.

They were hungry. I was hungry. And 1:00 at the Grand Floridian Cafe seemed a long ways away. . .

So, we took a stroll to Riverside Mill. . .

Bye, bye, room. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0002-1.jpg

The kids got kind of tired of my tireless photography.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0004.jpg

Breakfast was closer. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0016.jpg

It never ceases to amaze me how close the ducks get to you at WDW resorts. We picked up these two who decided to follow for a while.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_00192.jpg

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http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_00232.jpg

And we got to Animal Kingdom in time to join the crowds.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_00292.jpg

Who obviously were NOT in Dinoland.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0032-1.jpg

So, we go over to Dinoland and ride Dinosaur.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_00352.jpg

This was my first time on this ride. At the end of it, I could do nothing but laugh hysterically. All of the jumping out at me and everything, I could only laugh. My kids thought I had gone nuts. But there you have it.

Then, we head over to Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Where I got some great pictures of animals.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0079-1.jpg

Now, refresh my memory, is this tree actually a fake?

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I love the elephants. . .

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Then we take a trip over to look at the Tree of Life from a distance before Everest.

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I had never been on Everest, and it was awesome! My son and I were second from the front, and my girls were at the very front. Yet again, I laughed hysterically at the end. I did not expect the way it was, but loved it!

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We went over to see It's Tough To Be A Bug and walk through and see some of the animals before we took the bus over to the Grand Floridian for lunch. We were there early, (about 45 min) but I took the chance that they would seat us early, and they did.

The kids playing around. . .
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The Grand Floridian, IMO, is one of the most beautiful resorts on site. I know plenty of people find it stuffy, but I don't.

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And my favorite pictures of the day. Boo absolutely loved Disney transportation. Here, she is wistfully staring out of the windows.

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So, we are on our way back to Animal Kingdom. We have Fastpasses in hand for EE (we got them as we left earlier), and our bellies are full. Animal Kingdom EMH, here we come!!!!

[LegoMom3]

We had the same seats for EE!!! DS12 and DS9 were in the very front, and I was in Row 2 with DS7. You can see EVERY thing from that broken track where you wait for a moment before going backwards! This quickly became one of my all-time favorite rides at Disney!!

I love all your photography but I understand about the kids growing tired of Mom always snapping a picture!....:rotfl: I am plagued with the same obsession.

And once again, LOVE the snapshots of POR......:cloud9:

.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

LOL I am assuming the laughter is a good thing??

[creativeamanda]

We had the same seats for EE!!! DS12 and DS9 were in the very front, and I was in Row 2 with DS7. You can see EVERY thing from that broken track where you wait for a moment before going backwards! This quickly became one of my all-time favorite rides at Disney!!

I love all your photography but I understand about the kids growing tired of Mom always snapping a picture!....:rotfl: I am plagued with the same obsession.

And once again, LOVE the snapshots of POR......:cloud9:

.

I loved looking out and seeing Spaceship Earth. I would love to be riding EE during Illuminations. That is on my "to do" list--so I'll have to do AK EMH again, :rotfl2:.

I miss POR so much. At first, I always looked for a closer price--ya know--we can just afford a couple more hundred. But now, all I want to do is go home. . .:lovestruc

LOL I am assuming the laughter is a good thing??

Of course it is!

[creativeamanda]

After our bus trip back from the Grand Floridian, we headed in to see my favorite tree in the world again. Talk about awesome!

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We headed over to ride Dinosaur again, when we heard the famous words. . . . "I need to go to the bathroom." Back out of line we go, and over to Fastpass to get one. After bathroom, we headed across the park to EE again. After all, we had to use those fastpasses!

Soon after EE, we noticed that the parade was going on. And I learned something important--I am not a huge fan of afternoon parades. I love Spectromagic. I adore Boo to You, but Jammin Jungle and the old Dreams Come True Parade would not be on my must do list again. Either way, we did see Donald. . .

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We then headed over to the Lion King Show, which is my favorite on property. . .

I still would love to know how he does this. But I don't want to do it myself!

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Then it was time for my favorite CS location on property: Flame Tree Barbeque. . .It was still as yummy as I remembered, and as this is Dan's favorite CS as well, I decided to call him and rub it in. Coming out of FTB, we got a few more pictures. By this time, EMH had started, and we could relax a bit.

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I don't know what Boo was doing here. . .

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Once EMH had started, we rode. . .you guessed it--Expedition Everest. Again. It was about dusk by this time, and we were getting more and more excited.

We ran from EE over to Kali River Rapids. Which, believe it or not, is more comfortable when it is not 40 degree weather. We rode it twice, and my kids? Well, we'll let the pictures speak for how wet they were before we changed clothes. . .

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By this time, Animal Kingdom was dark, and beautiful. Had I known better about my camera, I would have gotten better pictures, but I thought this was beautiful with the twinkling lights.

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And in that dark, we rode Expedition Everest a final time. This is really something you have to experience at night! You can't see where you are going, but you can look around and see lights in the distance. It truly is awesome!

After EE, we decided to head back to the resort. And this is one of the few times you could see this--my car--only one of like 3 in the parking lot. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0304.jpg

Coming up. . .Oh D-D-D-Dear! It's Piglet's Birthday!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Great update! I am planning on us doing an AK evening EMH when we are there in December. It looks really cool at night! Can't wait!

[Seewhatimesdone]

Aww what a great update :) I have never eaten at Flame Tree; we'll have to try it! Animal kingdom is so beautiful at night, especially since you can hear the animals coming alive!

Looking forward to Piglet's birthday :banana:

[creativeamanda]

June 30. We all get up early again, and leave Gillian behind to pack up. I had packed by throwing everything in Space Bags and removing as much air as I could with my massive body weight.

The kids wanted to take another trip to the water parks, so we decide to get up and drive over to Blizzard Beach.

This time, we did not even take Sweetie's camera, as we wanted to do some of the rides/slides and not take too much time going back and forth between the lockers. The first thing we do when we get in is grab a photopass photographer for this:

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Boo got her 4th--yes 4th birthday button here and she wore her Espanol birthday button all day!

We got into BB, and headed for Snowless Joes to rent a locker and purchase sunscreen. Yep--I forgot the sunscreen and as a result, paid $14 for a can of sunscreen. :eek: The purchase of the sunscreen, however, must have been what led to the next situation--it started to rain. :laughing:

Slightly at first, but then it got harder. And harder. And all of the sudden all of the wet people at Blizzard Beach decided they didn't want to be wet and ran for cover.

Of course, when we got to the parking lot, it was hailing, so they may have had a point. We stayed there for 2 hours, and although we would have liked to go over to Typhoon Lagoon one last time, by the time we got down the road a bit, we knew that we needed to just collect Gillian and take the bus over to Magic Kingdom to get Boo's birthday fun card and ride the rides.

So, we got to Magic Kingdom just before lunchtime, when the heavens opened up! It was pouring, and we decided lunch at Cosmic Ray's was in order. After standing for what seemed like forever in the chicken section, we got our lunch and ate. We did this quickly, because that place was a mad house. Everyone decided to have lunch and get out of the rain at the same time. As I was leaving, I saw tinkgurl, but it was way to crowded to say hello. I wish I had, in retrospect.

After lunch, we rode a few rides, including Peter Pan, The Haunted Mansion, Snow White, saw Philharmagic, and Pirates of the Carribean.

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Then, we decided to queue up for the afternoon parade. And we saw something that I think happens but very rarely--they canceled the regular parade for the Rainy Day Cavalcade. . .

We were at the beginning of the parade route, because we had gotten Splash Mountain fast passes. We figured we were already wet, so. . .

Anyway, the Cavalcade. . .

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Minnie Mouse, quickly becoming my favorite.

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The Fairy Godmother, telling Boo Happy Birthday from the parade route. It made Boo's day!

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THe end of the parade--short, but the CM near us said this parade was not held often.

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The best part was the looks on the stepsister's faces--that was priceless!

We then shopped a little near Splash Mountain, and went to. . .

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Where we ended up in the front!!!! I hate heights, but this one really isn't as bad as I remembered.

After SM, it was time for our ADR at Crystal Palace.

Before going in, I snapped this. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_0354.jpg

And we waited a while before getting food so we could see the characters.

Boo's favorite. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/DSC_03572-1.jpg

Playing around. . .

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The best Tigger ever!

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Pooh. . .

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Happy birthday to Boo!

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And then her favorite was there. You can just tell here--it makes tears come to my eyes looking at this picture right now. And you have to know the background. One of Boo's first movies she watched as Piglet's Big Movie. All of the sudden, Piglet was everywhere--stuffed animals, blankets, pillows, shirts. She was even Piglet for two Halloweens in a row! She loves Piglet, and will walk around and say, "Oh, D-D-D-Dear!"

So this picture is simply priceless!

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The kids before we left the restaurant.

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Back on the porch.

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And the view from our table was not bad, either. . .

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So, dinner was over, and we were tired. We stayed around a little more for last minute pictures, but we also had shopping to do. And I had packing to do, because we were going home the next day. :sad1:

Coming up, Photopass finale and Downtown Disney.

[creativeamanda]

When I left you all, Boo had just finished her birthday dinner at Crystal Palace. We walked out of CP, and I snapped this shot:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0443.jpg

We then went over to the rose garden area.

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I only wanted pictures over there, and we proceeded to the castle. Mind you, this is July 4 week, but apparently the rain kept the crowds real low.

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This was my first walk ever through the castle. I really enjoyed the mosaics there.

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After the castle, we went on to Snow White and the Carousel. Stinky looks all overjoyed, doesn't he?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0497.jpg

Finally, we spun around on the teacups before leaving.

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One last look. . .:sad1:

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As we left, the purple monorail was coming through. :sad1:

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And as always, Boo was upset about leaving. . .

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When we returned, Mousekeeping had left another towel animal.

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We drove over to Downtown Disney (how could I have forgotten about the boats :headache:) And visited World of Disney and the Pin Traders to spend the rest of Boo's money.

One of these will certainly be our Christmas card this year.

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My favorite store of all time. . .

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We went back to the room, where the kids almost instantly fell aslepp while I packed the car.

Coming up--a Grand Finale.

[tinkgurl]

Ugh, please don't remind me of that rainy day!

[creativeamanda]

Ugh, please don't remind me of that rainy day!

That was an awful way to end the trip--rain, rain, rain! The positive was on Splash Mountain, there was no way to get more wet than we already were!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Those are great pictures of Boo. Glad her birthday was so nice! Sad to see your trip come to an end, but you always have the December trip to look forward to!

[creativeamanda]

They say all good things must come to an end. In the case of our June trip, before I knew it, the car was packed, the kids were in it, and I was taking one last look at the room. I was feeling relaxed, as if I could drive the entire eight hours and be fine. I had not cried.

Boo had spent her birthday card, the spoils of our vacation were in the trunk, and we took one last trip through the rain to Riverside Mill to refill our refillable mugs. Then, we drove over to the Poly for breakfast at Ohana. It was to be our last Disney meal. We walked around the Poly for a while, and then checked in, because we knew we would have a long wait. The kids enjoyed looking at the POLY lobby, which is beautiful, especially given the time of year we were there. I will say this: although I'd love to stay here, I'd only be able to stay in the summer. It would just be too weird any other time.

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We were seated after about a 40 minute wait, and we got awesome seats--right by the window, for one of the least obscured views of MK. Too bad it was rainy, but we still had a good view, nonetheless. . .

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When I looked out that window, it hit me. We were leaving. I didn't know when we'd be back, but I did know this--I was sadder than I had been in a while. I cried. Like a baby.

We started the meal, and the characters started to come around.

Stitch loved the fact that Stinky had a Stitch t-shirt on--he kept pointing to Danny and then to himself.

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Pluto was crawling on the floor like a typical dog and when my kids came to him, he ate them up. Without a doubt, this was the best character in our time there.

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And then Mickey came, dressed in his Polynesian finest.

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Finally, Lilo came around, just before the character parade. . .

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And I learned a valuable lesson. . .want to have a memorable last few minutes in Disney world for your kids? Take them for a character breakfast before you leave. It doesn't matter where. Just take them.

When breakfast was over, we have a couple of snack credits left, so we went to Cook's at the Poly and picked up a couple for their Daddy. Then we hopped in the car, and took the 8 hour drive back to North Carolina. Like everything else, all good things come to an end.

But you always have the happy memories.

[PaMom001]

What a great update.

[emh1129]

Great trip report! Thanks for sharing your memories :)

[creativeamanda]

What a great update.

Great trip report! Thanks for sharing your memories :)

Thanks :goodvibes It's strange that the whole trip now seems to be officially over since the trip report is done. . .

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Our last two trips we ended the stay with the Ohana breakfast! That's funny! But, you are right...a great way to end it!

[creativeamanda]

Our last two trips we ended the stay with the Ohana breakfast! That's funny! But, you are right...a great way to end it!

My solo trip is going to end with a Chef Mickey's breakfast (ah, brunch :rotfl:). I think that closes up the Disney magic well--a character meal and then a departure. For me, the meal would really have to be on the monorail, so I could see the castle one more time. I feel like I'm lucky to have gotten the ressies at Chef Mickey's for 11:00am! They are soooo hard to get!