15 days & 600+ pix. The trip report you've been waiting a year to read....

[bubba's mom]

Monday, June 29, 2009

Day 1

After the usual day of getting ready to go and last minute packing, after dinner we dropped Max (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/DSCN1712.jpg) (our relatively 'new' puppy) off at my Mom's on our way to our hotel at the Phila. airport. We headed to what I thought was the Comfort Inn...turned out to be the Quality Hotel. :rolleyes1 We arrived around 8pm-ish. I called Tracie (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2149.jpg) (aka "tlinus") to let her know where I was and that there was a pool there. She and her "Beans" visited (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2147.jpg) and her youngest two enjoyed the pool, for about an hour. We had a nice chat/visit. They (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2148.jpg) stayed until about 10ish and then headed home...which, wasn't far for her. We headed up to our room to get ready for bed. Early flight in the morning.

[Metro West]

Another Brab trip report...........cool! :cool1:

[bubba's mom]

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Day 2

When we checked in last night, we had scheduled a 4:30am wake-up call...never came. :mad: It's our backup plan to our alarmclock we set for 4:20. Even though the bed seemed to be the size of a shoebox (used to king at home...this was a double?), I managed to get more sleep this year compared to other years. But, I was still up before the alarm...as usual.

We got cleaned up and made it downstairs about 5:10am (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2155.jpg) for our scheduled 5:20am shuttle.

We left on the airport shuttle on time, if not early...

We arrived at PHL and the line for curbside check-in was outrageous. We decided to go inside, as we always do, and the line was long inside too, but moved a LOT faster than the outside line. We were at our gate so early, we were sitting with the people there for the flight before ours (6:40am)! :laughing: (Our flight didn't leave till 7:30am this year.)

Bubba and I watched Hotel for Dogs on my laptop on the flight down (good movie) while eating breakfast. Breakfast usually consists of some mini donuts and individually wrapped danishes.... We have a routine that works for us.

We departed on time and the flight was going well....that is, until we got closer to Florida when the captain put the seatbelt sign on because of thunderstorms/bad weather. The captain announced we were going to be 24 minutes late because of the alternate route and even had the flight crew return to their seats. (I was thinking, 'Why 24 minutes? Why not say 25 or even 30? 24? Jeez....) They were flying us down the Gulf side of Florida instead of the usual ocean side because of the storms. Still, they anticipated some turbulence and we got it. At one point, we could feel quite a bit of a drop (those seatbelts came in handy) and the little 4 yr old girl sitting in front of us exclaimed "that was awesome"...getting a chuckle from surrounding passengers. The gal behind me didn't think it was so awesome. She was using the "bags" provided by the airline. :sick: (Here's a tidbit for ya....Did you know FAA rules prohibit personal items in the seatback pockets? Including a book or bottle of water? :confused3 This was new info to me...)

We finally arrive at MCO about 35 minutes later than we were scheduled to but, no matter...we're not in any hurry to be anywhere. Of course we beat our luggage down to the baggage claim, got a good spot and waited for our bags. After a while (longer than usual wait for MCO) we get our bags and trek over to pick up our rental car from Budget.

We walked right up to check in at the counter and the lovely gal does our paperwork while trying to sell us an upgrade. Well, if I WANTED to spend more money on a bigger car, I woulda just booked a bigger car...duh. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry023.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We finished up our paperwork and headed for the garage.

We picked up the car (Chevy Aveo) and DH drove it about 15 feet out of the parking spot, stopped and backed it up and returned it to the parking spot. It would seem there was some sort of hesitation with what he believed to be the transmission...could have been the engine, but with the distances we would be driving, we weren't taking any chances. We went back to the counter (outside) and asked for a different car explaining our concern. They were very nice and fixed us up with a Hyundai Accent...with XM radio...bonus! :banana:

Our plan was to head to my BILs, but being AP holders, parking is free at Universal, and BIL & SIL were working, soooooo....we decided to head to Universal for the day....rain ponchos and all. If you recall last year's trip report, our new rule is to carry rain ponchos if we're not 'dressed to get wet'. :thumbsup2

This was our first time being a day guest at Universal. :scared: We made sure to take a picture of where we parked (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2163.jpg) (see how happy Bubba is to be a 'day' guest?) I had never been in the parking garage (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2164.jpg) and I thought it was very nice. Covered (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2166.jpg) from the rain and sun beating down on your car. I will admit, it's quite a hike, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2168.jpg) but still, a nice walk. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2169.jpg) View from parking garage. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2167.jpg) As you can see, it wasn't a very nice day... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2170.jpg) keeping the crowds down.

It was close to noon and we decided on the Burger King (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2180.jpg) Whopper Bar (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2179.jpg) for lunch. Didn't see anything we were in the mood for at Moe's or Panda Express, so BK it was. Note: AP holders receive 10% discount at BK....just make sure the person working gives it to you! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-rolleyes008.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) I would assume Moe's & Panda Express also give it, since the three of them are together in a small food court area. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2182.jpg) Moe's menu (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2172.jpg) 1. Menu 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2171.jpg) Menu 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2173.jpg) BK menu: 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2176.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2178.jpg) and 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2177.jpg) I think there was a bit of a line, because Bubba was tired of waiting, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2175.jpg) and waiting.... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2181.jpg) Finally, DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2183.jpg) and whoppers returned...and, I feel they are bigger (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2184.jpg) than the whoppers here at home...but, that's my opinion.

After lunch, it was poncho time. http://bestsmileys.com/weather/1.gif But, I wanted a picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2185.jpg) before we 'waterproofed' and started on our way to the park. Ice cream (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2186.jpg)...yum! And, just because I missed H&H last time, I took the picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2187.jpg) this year. After the few pictures, we donned ponchos (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2188.jpg) and Bubba wanted to ride MIB. We stopped to catch part of the Animal Actors show on the way to MIB. If for no other reason, than to get out of the rain for a bit. (Even saw the new HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2190.jpg) on the way.)

As we were on our way to MIB, we noticed the line for Simpson's was really short....almost non-existent. So, we decided to hop on Simpsons and we walked right on. :goodvibes It was a lucky break, because as we exited the ride, we could see a line had formed. We were going to go again, but decided against it after seeing the line. (It wasn't a long line, but, still a line. And, when you're spoiled with FOTL like we normally are, you just don't want to wait in a line.) :snooty:

We made it to MIB and checked my bag in a locker. We entered the single rider line and as we approached the rope at the entrance, they were letting single riders in. We walked right on. Note: If you are wearing a rain poncho, you will have to take it off and sit on it. Most times Bubba was in a car with one of us, but he's done these rides so often, he's familiar with them and knows where to wait. We must have done MIB 3 times in about 10 minutes. There was even a guy in line waiting to board his car, and when DH walked by him, he asked him how long he waited. When DH explained about 10 min, he had the look of 'darn it' on his face. :rolleyes1 Then DH said it was 10 min for about 3 different rides. I'm guessing some people still don't know what single rider lines are for? The only drawback I could see to it, is with EP, you are always on the left track. 2 out of 3 times we were on the right track, and we're not as good on that side because we're not familiar with that side. (Altho I did get 354,000 on that side and even with that score, my car still lost. [Tells ya how crappy the rest of my car did! :sad2: ] The lady next to me couldn't believe my score and was showing her husband. I told her that was just 'ok' for me....out of my element and all...I thought it was funny.)

After a few spins on MIB, Bubba wanted to see ET. We headed that direction (not thinking about we don't have EP and ET doesn't have single rider line) and found the wait to be about 15 min. Not bad...and, it was out of the rain...so, we decided to hang out.

After ET, we headed for Disaster! ...a show we've come to enjoy. That was a little bit of a wait (maybe 15-20 min.), but it was a standby queue (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2192.jpg) we'd never been in before. Turns out, we are missing nada. These are all the pix from the queue: 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2193.jpg), 2 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2195.jpg) and 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2196.jpg)

After Disaster!, it was on to Shrek (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2197.jpg) (again, not thinking, no EP), stopping to take a pic of a Fast & Furious (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2191.jpg) car. The wait wasn't bad...I think we got into the next show (the auditorium holds 300 people). Now, if you've ever done Shrek, you know it's really not all that long of a show. But, my DH found this to be the perfect time to catch a couple http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep001.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php). (It helped our seats weren't working up to 100% capacity...missed a few things and they were relatively steady). After the show was over, and DH woke up, we headed to Pat O'Brien's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2215.jpg) for dinner....passing Bob Marley, Tribute to Freedom (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2198.jpg) on the way.

Pat's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2217.jpg) wasn't busy...either because it was early (5:00ish) or the rain chased everyone away? Whatever the case was, we had a pianist there and she was very nice. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-music023.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) There were a couple other tables and she was taking requests. While she played, Bubba told me the only thing he could come up with was Linus & Lucy (from Peanuts). He was going to request it, but she played it on her own. Imagine how surprised he was!

While she was playing some Billy Joel and other songs, Bubba had the pizza, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2218.jpg) I had a chicken sandwich (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2220.jpg) and DH had the jambalaya. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2219.jpg) We also ordered a bag o' beignets (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2221.jpg) for dessert and enjoyed the carmel dipping sauce that came with it. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink026.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After dinner, we decided since we'd be coming back and staying at PBH in 9 days, we'd head out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2225.jpg) and over to BILs. I saw the hotel shuttles (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2223.jpg) on our way out and took a picture of them (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2224.jpg) ...for those who've never seen them. It was a pretty uneventful drive (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2230.jpg) over to New Smyrna Beach where they live, but we did slow down in traffic right near the Wesh 2 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2226.jpg) weather radar. Bubba read a book (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2228.jpg) on the way, while I tried to aim the heat on our sneakers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2227.jpg) to dry them out...they were absolutely soaked from walking around in the rain all day.

We got to BIL's around 7:30-8pm, and stayed up till about midnight talking and catching up....a looong day considering we were up by 4:30am that morning. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep024.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Our nephew who moved down to Florida about a year ago or so, stopped by for the evening too (he lives around the corner from BIL). It was a nice, family night of hanging out.

Around midnight we decided to hit the hay......http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep012.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Tomorrow is another day.

[RVGal]

The lady behind you was using the barf bag? Oh you poor thing. I mean, I feel sorry for her too for being sick, but that is the kind of thing that makes everyone around miserable. And on a plane, you're stuck.

I've never been anything but a day guest at Universal. Maybe one of these days I can hob nob with you fancy pants onsite guests. :snooty: :laughing:

I think the Whoppers look bigger, but maybe it is just how they are presented. I think we need to take a tape measure next time and solve the debate once and for all. That sounds like an important experiment to me. Maybe we could get a federal grant to pay for the trip... :rolleyes1

Sorry about the bumpy flight and soggy day, but it sounds like you made the most of it and had fun anyway! :goodvibes

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

I'm in! :thumbsup2

[bubba's mom]

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Day 3

This day we woke to overcast skies. :guilty: One of the reasons we decided to go BILs this year, was so Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2233.jpg) could check out the Florida beach. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2232.jpg) Brother & Sister-in-law had to work today, so we took our nephew and niece to the beach with us. Since it was cloudy and overcast, we only stayed about an hour, but that was plenty of time to see some porpoises swimming down the coast and some fish jumping out of the water. Our niece and I (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2231.jpg) decided to stay out of the very cold ocean. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00019.jpg)

After the quick jaunt to the beach, we stopped at Manny's for some pizza for lunch. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink063.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) In the meantime, SIL finished up with work and stopped by to join us. She arrived just after drinks were delivered...perfect timing. We had a nice lunch of drinks, pizza and spitballs (don't ask!) :ssst:

After lunch, DH had wanted to go to the local surf shop in search of some new Reefs (flipflops). We headed to the two surfshops and found him a nice, new, comfy pair.

After shopping, we all strolled up Flagler Ave and window shopped. We even found the brick (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00020.jpg) my BIL & SIL received as a wedding gift. She knew it was there, but didn't remember where exactly on the stretch of sidewalk. Once we found it, we took a picture of it in front of the Flagler Tavern (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00021.jpg) so she wouldn't forget where it was again. When I went to take a picture of it with my camera and I got a "lens error" http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)...wth? If you read last year's trip report, you'll recall I dropped and broke my camera at Disney's cruise terminal just before boarding for our cruise. When I got home, I bought a new camera and got coverage on it for everything.... As you can imagine, I was not a happy camper. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00022.jpg) http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry034.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) (I got DH to take the picture with the videocamera.)

It started to drizzle, again, so we headed home for showers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2238.jpg) and dinner. Our other nephew stopped over again and BIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2234.jpg) made a nice steak dinner for everyone. We played some Wii (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2237.jpg) and exchanged watching last summer's family vacation videos and did more talking..... The kids were even engaging in a game of hide 'n seek (small house to be doing so) and it got interesting when they were texting with the cell phones to each other. :confused3 Niece Casey (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2236.jpg) on the computer, niece Corinne (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2235.jpg) on her phone.

It was a pretty uneventful night...but full of good times with family.....that we only see once a year. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sad040.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Again, up until about midnight before calling it a night (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00017.jpg) .....but, now we can sleep in the next morning! :teeth:

[circelli]

Loving it...keep it up!!!!:goodvibes

[macraven]

:yay:

[Tinker-tude]

Monday, June 29, 2009

Day 1

After the usual day of getting ready to go and last minute packing, after dinner we dropped Max (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/DSCN1712.jpg) (our relatively 'new' puppy) off at my Mom's on our way to our hotel at the Phila. airport. We headed to what I thought was the Comfort Inn...turned out to be the Quality Hotel. :rolleyes1 We arrived around 8pm-ish. I called Tracie (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2149.jpg) (aka "tlinus") to let her know where I was and that there was a pool there. She and her "Beans" visited (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2147.jpg) and her youngest two enjoyed the pool, for about an hour. We had a nice chat/visit. They (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2148.jpg) stayed until about 10ish and then headed home...which, wasn't far for her. We headed up to our room to get ready for bed. Early flight in the morning.



Holy Schmolie! Bubba has GROWN like a weed!

[bubba's mom]

The lady behind you was using the barf bag? Oh you poor thing. I mean, I feel sorry for her too for being sick, but that is the kind of thing that makes everyone around miserable. And on a plane, you're stuck.

Actually....I didn't notice (since she was directly behind me)...it was DH who turned his head and happened to notice. :scared:

I've never been anything but a day guest at Universal. Maybe one of these days I can hob nob with you fancy pants onsite guests. :snooty: :laughing:

We would love you to "hob nob" around with us! :thumbsup2 You don't know whatcher missing :hug: Wait! Does that mean I have to wear my "fancy pants"? :confused: :teeth:

I think the Whoppers look bigger, but maybe it is just how they are presented. I think we need to take a tape measure next time and solve the debate once and for all. That sounds like an important experiment to me. Maybe we could get a federal grant to pay for the trip... :rolleyes1

Count me in if you can....wait! Wouldn't WE the taxpayers still be paying for it? :confused3


I'm in! :thumbsup2

Glad you're here!:thumbsup2

Loving it...keep it up!!!!:goodvibes

Oh...I gots tons more pix and lots more to tell....(tomorrow alone is 100 pix :eek: )

:yay:

Dontcha mean popcorn:: ?

:rotfl:

Holy Schmolie! Bubba has GROWN like a weed!

In the first night when Tracie and the Beans came to visit, her youngest daughter Cbean was 10 that day...Bubba was 10 in Jan. They are the same age and he has like a whole head on her! :eek: Her oldest bean, K, is 14 and 3" taller than Bubs. (Bub's is 5') :faint:

[donaldduck352]

:wave2: I'm here and waiting for more!! We love your TR's..popcorn::

[keishashadow]

sign me up:goodvibes

wow, quite a few bumps to start the trip out:confused3really stinks re ur camera, all better now?

randy must be a very sound snoozer to sleep thru shrek:laughing:, must say i've closed my eyes for spell more than once on that sort of ride, too bad they have to ruin the genre with moving seats, feathers, water, all sorts of disturbing things

guess it's safe to say no $1 value menu @ BK, our standard, still nice to have the option i guess
sooo, lighthouses aheadpopcorn::

[nerdboyrockstar]

I love your trip reports! I'm definitely in.

[tlinus]

:wave:

Hey - I am here!!! Me and my beanos have hit the BigTime by making an appearance in a Barb Trippie......:cool1::cool1:

Won't give you a hard time. Will wait for more.

Right here.

popcorn::

[angela3676]

popcorn:::surfweb: oh yeah, i'm in!

[ClanHarrison]

Subcribing popcorn::

Your TR intrigued me since your trip date seems to be the same/similar as mine, but for NEXT year though. Thought I'd ride along in hopes of being able to note some trends that I didn't take into account for our trip (*Note to self*-rained June 29th AND 30th), and to simply enjoy this mah-velously detailed journey. Great job :thumbsup2...love the pics. Waiting patiently for more.

[stich626]

I so look forward to your trip reports!!! Always filled with tons of photos. I caught my hubby reading over my shoulder.

[pixeegrl]

Been away from the boards for awhile since it depresses me knowing we are not going back till 2011. HOWEVER!!!!! a quick stop put me in a good mood after finding the beginnings of your TR!

[jcc0621]

FOund your TR today. Can't wait to read more:goodvibes

[bubba's mom]

really stinks re ur camera, all better now?

::yes:: Hasn't had that problem again. :confused3

guess it's safe to say no $1 value menu @ BK, our standard, still nice to have the option i guess

No...no $1 menu, but value meals and choices you don't have at home (mushrooms, angus, etc)

sooo, lighthouses ahead popcorn::

:rolleyes1




Me and my beanos have hit the BigTime by making an appearance in a Barb Trippie......:cool1::cool1:


Yes you have! :woohoo: I hope it's not another year till we get to see you guys again. :rolleyes:

Your TR intrigued me since your trip date seems to be the same/similar as mine, but for NEXT year though. Thought I'd ride along in hopes of being able to note some trends that I didn't take into account for our trip (*Note to self*-rained June 29th AND 30th), and to simply enjoy this mah-velously detailed journey. Great job :thumbsup2...love the pics. Waiting patiently for more.

We usually go the end of June/beginning of July every year and it normally doesn't hardly rain at all! Normally it's a 10-20 minute shower that passes thru and you can be doing an attraction or eating while it's happening. It's rare for rain to last all day like it did this year. :confused3

I caught my hubby reading over my shoulder.

:rolleyes1 Busted!! :laughing:

Been away from the boards for awhile since it depresses me knowing we are not going back till 2011. HOWEVER!!!!! a quick stop put me in a good mood after finding the beginnings of your TR!

Glad I could help? :laughing: Don't worry, for 2011, you have to start planning and booking your room next year...before you know it, your trip will be here!

[bubba's mom]

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Day 4

This brings us to our last day at BILs. Again, they both had to work in the morning, and the kids had other places to go, so the Bubba family decided to head to Daytona Beach to the Ponce (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00027.jpg) De Leon lighthouse. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00032.jpg) (Website can be found here. (http://www.ponceinlet.org))

But....not before I told DH he could take his family out to breakfast. :) We ended up at Denny's (none around us anymore) and Bubba ordered 3 huge pancakes. I never expected him to eat it all, but he did! ...and, in record time! He was done before DH & I!! :eek: Been awhile since we've eaten at a Denny's and it wasn't bad. Nice change from what we'd been nibbling on.

After breakfast, it was north to Daytona to the lighthouse. It was about a half an hour ride to the lighthouse, but it was worth it. They give you a map of the grounds and have all sorts of different things to see.

There are two rafts (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2241.jpg) from refugees. Description (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2242.jpg) of rafts. Left (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2243.jpg) raft. Right (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2244.jpg) raft. A lens (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2277.jpg) room. These lenses (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00025.jpg) are HUGE! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2279.jpg) We took a lot of pix (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2280.jpg) in this room. 1. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2281.jpg) 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2282.jpg) 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2283.jpg) Bubba & DH upstairs (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2284.jpg) looking down. There was also this boat. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2239.jpg) And, of course, a picture of DH and his new toy. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2240.jpg)

Eventually, it was time to climb (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2246.jpg) the lighthouse. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2247.jpg) This was Bubba's first visit (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2248.jpg) to a lighthouse...and his first climb. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2249.jpg) We learned with it's 203 steps to the top, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00023.jpg) it's the tallest lighthouse in Florida, 2nd tallest in the United States. Bubba wasn't too keen on getting up the steps, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2253.jpg) but he was a trooper and made it all the way to the top. I kept telling him, don't look where you're going, look (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2251.jpg) where ya been! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2250.jpg)

Once at the top, it's a beautiful sight to see. View 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2255.jpg) view 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2256.jpg) view 3, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2259.jpg) view 4, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2260.jpg) view 5, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2261.jpg) view 6, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2262.jpg) view 7. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2265.jpg) This is the inlet (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2257.jpg) that separates (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2258.jpg) South Daytona from New Smyrna Beach. Inlet pic. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2273.jpg) When I took this picture, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2263.jpg) I noticed another small lighthouse. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2264.jpg) Bubba takin' in the view. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2268.jpg) And, with Dad (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2267.jpg) too. And even took a pic (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2270.jpg) with his Mom! Bubba even had me take a pic (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2269.jpg) of our rental car. See that hideous blue thing? Yep...that would be it. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-rolleyes008.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After about 10-15 minutes of taking in the view and breeze at the top, it was time for Bubba to brave the steps again....only going down. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2275.jpg) It was slow going, but he made it. DH even had time to stop and look out the window (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2274.jpg) along the way. After a long descent, he was very happy to have both feet back on the ground! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2276.jpg)

We finished seeing the other things on the self-guided tour, of which I didn't take pictures. 1) it just wasn't all THAT fascinating and 2) the batteries in my camera died and I forgot to bring fresh ones http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/slaphead.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We saw: the first & second assistant keeper's housings, principal keeper's housing, the pump house, generator building, oil storage building, garden area and the U.S. Lighthouse Service Bell. It's a nice little tour you can take walking around the lighthouse. While we were walking around, Bubba found a turtle (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00029.jpg) and we noticed the Goodyear blimp! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00031.jpg)

After the lighthouse, we still had some time to kill before BIL & SIL got off work, so we decided to go miniature (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00034.jpg) golfing. This was Bubba's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00035.jpg) first time. Don't ask me why it took him to be 10 yrs old before he got to do this, but, it did. ....and, he LOVED (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00037.jpg) it!!! He had a really good time! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00039.jpg) Here was his prize (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00041.jpg) for doing so well. And I think I came in third place....unfortunately, I won the same prize. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00043.jpg)

After golf, we were going to go across the street and check out the beach, but we forgot! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-fc/oops.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We just headed back to BILs and met him there. He was packing up the boat. Apparently we were going out on the boat and to dinner while we were out on it. We got swimsuits on and packed everything up and rode over to the launch. In the meantime, SIL was getting our nieces and going to meet us at the launch. Her timing was great...we had just gotten the boat in (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00045.jpg) and they arrived.

We headed out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00055.jpg) into the river/bay and cruised around. This is the first time Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2294.jpg) was on a boat....last year he was on the Disney ship...a little different. He seemed to really enjoy being out on the boat. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00061.jpg) Some pix (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2298.jpg) of Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2299.jpg) enjoying his first boat ride: us, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2300.jpg) Bubba 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2301.jpg) and 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2306.jpg)

We even learned a little history about the area and wakeboarded. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-fc/surfing.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) BIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00062.jpg) was going to go first...to show DH how it's done. BIL 1. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00065.jpg) BIL 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00066.jpg) BIL 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00067.jpg) BIL 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00069.jpg) BIL 5. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00070.jpg)

Then, it was DH's turn (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00079.jpg)....he gave it a try for the first time. After 2 tries, the 3rd time was the charm (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00083.jpg) and he was up! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00084.jpg) He had a really great time (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00090.jpg) and said it was one of his favorite parts of the whole trip. Our niece Corinne (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00099.jpg) even decided to be brave and give it a try....sadly, the towrope broke and we were finished wakeboarding for the day. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sad040.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Here's the video. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtgL6cirLko)

After BIL and DH wakeboarding, BIL took us to JB's for dinner....even letting Bubba drive (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00111.jpg) the boat...briefly. On our way. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00102.jpg) (We were hoping this rain (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00106.jpg) in the distance would stay there...and, it did. It never rained/stormed (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00108.jpg) on us.)

JB's is the only place in New Smyrna Beach you can arrive via boat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2323.jpg) to eat. We tied the boat up (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2308.jpg) and got a seat. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00115.jpg) It was the usual seafood fare, but I had a chicken sandwich, while Bubba had a cheeseburger. DH had a gator burger. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2307.jpg) In case you are wondering, gator tastes like porkchop...it wasn't bad. It was a nice night to be eating out on the deck and a very casual, light atmosphere. They even have signs (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2310.jpg) posted around that just make you laugh. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2309.jpg)

After dinner, we headed back out on the boat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2330.jpg) and cruised around some more. Even stopped at the 'family designated' beach (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2364.jpg) ;) We saw a school (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00123.jpg) of dolphins playing (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00124.jpg) around....until Joe Boom Box came by on his boat with his music so loud, they swam in the opposite direction.http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry035.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We saw quite a few dolphins (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2350.jpg) ....and a few manatees too....but, they weren't as cooperative with the photo-ops. We cruised around (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2368.jpg) until it was dark out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2340.jpg)....taking in an awesome sunset. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00118.jpg) We found this to be odd....one lone palm? (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2377.jpg) http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

By the time it was dark, the kids (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2385.jpg) were wrapped in towels freezing. It was cold out there on the water that late at night! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-gen125.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We headed back and by time we got back, it was about 9:30. My SIL, the kids & I headed back to the house in SIL's car while the guys pulled the boat out of the water. We had more people needing to use the bathroom than the house had bathrooms! So...it was a race! We beat the guys back to the house, and the girls beelined it for the bathrooms, but my SIL had to stop to kill a snake in front of the garage door before she went in. Of course I wasn't going to let her out there by herself, and stood by doing "the dance" laughing at her while she tried to kill this snake with a broom! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After everyone was home, it was 10:15pm or so and everyone showered up. We had snacks and watched the video and pictures we took that day....especially of the wakeboarding....I guess my BIL doesn't have video of them doing that? Even Taboo (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2390.jpg) was tired and done for the night! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep019.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

It was a nice, long day...and tiring! Tomorrow we head to (sl)Ocala to my FIL's.

[bubba's mom]

Friday, July 3, 2009

Day 5

This is a pretty uneventful day. Today was the day to pack up and drive 2 hours to my FIL's house in Ocala. We waited until about 2pm to go, because our nephew wanted to ride over with us and we had to wait for him to come back from his Mom's. After being packed up, we just sat around watching tv and waiting for him. Looked like a beautiful day out...sun was shining.

Nephew finally arrived just after 2pm and we headed out. It was a nice ride except thru Deland.....again. :rolleyes2 The last time we drove to Dad's with him with us, we had rain through the same area. We blamed him because the other times we've driven that way without him, we didn't have any rain. We blamed him, he blamed us Pennsylvanians. Luckily the deluge didn't last long and there wasn't too much debris on the road to dodge.

We arrived at Dad's around 4:30 or so....happy to see everyone.:wave2: After using the bathroom, hey...it's a long ride!.....saying hellos and chatting for a bit, it was time to visit the grocery store for our necessities for the week. DH & I went to the store for what we needed.

BIL & SIL were driving over after work and would arrive shortly after we returned from the store. Dad had burgers, hotdogs & brats waiting to be grilled for dinner, which BIL happily did.

After the cookout, I believe we settled in to watch the Phillies game.

Tomorrow was the 4th of July & Dad's birthday....bed wasn't too late....around midnight I think.

[keishashadow]

yippie!:banana:i've been trying to work in seeing that lighthouse during a trip for years (and years), least i know what it looks like now:goodvibesthanks for posting:thumbsup2

another Q, for years ive been hearing new smyrna is the shark capital of east coast:confused:did u see any?

[bubba's mom]

for years ive been hearing new smyrna is the shark capital of east coast:confused:did u see any?

Nope. Never have....and we've been going for over 15 years...not every year, but at least every few.

[bubba's mom]

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Day 6
Happy 4th of July today http://bestsmileys.com/fireworks/8.gif and http://bestsmileys.com/birthday1/9.gif to my FIL!!

The day started 'as usual' with BIL making breakfast for everyone http://bestsmileys.com/cooking/3.gif and me cleaning up the dishes. He made bacon and made-to-order eggs with toast. When we're there, I stay out of the way of those who are cooking, my brother & sister-in-law, and prefer to clean up the dishes. http://bestsmileys.com/cleaning/6.gif....just the way I roll. It seems to work well for our family.

After we finished breakfast and dishes and cleaning up were done, BIL & SIL got busy preparing dinner.http://bestsmileys.com/cooking/1.gif For Dad's birthday, we usually have the cookout, but this year he wanted prime rib. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2392.jpg) Unfortunately the entire thing was too big to fit into 1 marinating bag, so BIL had to cut'er in half. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2391.jpg) SIL prepared the marinade and in the fridge they went.

While dinner was marinating we got ourselves cleaned up because we needed to go out and get Dad his birthday gifts. Living so far away, we never really know what he needs or what to get him...so, we wait till we get to his house to figure it out. BIL, SIL, DH & I went out to Walmart and Best Buy. While at Best Buy, I inquired about the "lens error" on my camera. Of course the gal behind the desk had no idea what to say to me. She pulled (& reprinted) my receipt and did see I have a warranty on everything until next year. She said I would have to send the camera in and could take up to 4 weeks to get back. :headache: Uh...don't think so. Ticked off, I told her I would take care of it when I got home. I'm on vacation and sort of NEED my camera...http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry031.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Meanwhile, BIL and DH were shopping and managed to score a couple of computer things for Dad. We spent a lot of money and then left. Next stop was Walmart for some groceries and wrapping paper. We also stopped at the grocery store to pick up Dad's birthday cake while we were out. We weren't gone too long and by the time we got home, we decided it was pool time. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2395.jpg) SIL put the prime rib in the oven, and then joined us in the pool. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2394.jpg) Bubba & nephew (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2393.jpg) in the pool. Every year all the 'men' (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2397.jpg) engage in a beachball (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2398.jpg) game...while SIL and I just chat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00143.jpg) and supervise. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00150.jpg)
Game 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2399.jpg) game 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2400.jpg) game 3. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2403.jpg) Bubba gettin' a good shot (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00151.jpg)....and very happy (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00152.jpg) with himself! Even Taboo (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00149.jpg) thought about joining in the fun!

Some time to relax (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00144.jpg) and enjoy the pool for awhile. (Was a good thing too...because the rest of our week at Dad's wasn't "pool weather". It rained....a lot...everyday.)http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sad006.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) But, everyone was having a good time today and it was nice to just hang out.

Around 6pm, dinner was ready. The prime rib (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2415.jpg) came out of the oven and everyone helped getting the rest of the dinner (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2417.jpg) on the table. It was delicious as usual....and Dad was lovin' it.http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/drool.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After dinner was cake, ice cream and presents. When he doesn't have company, Dad likes to sit on his lanai and do jigsaw puzzles....so, Joyce got him an appropriate cake for the king of puzzles (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00161.jpg) http://bestsmileys.com/lol/6.gif Actually, this is the first year I can remember him NOT having a red, white & blue birthday cake....ya know, because of being the 4th and all...... Lucky for Dad, we didn't put all 74 candles (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2418.jpg) on his cake...and did good blowing out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2419.jpg) what we did put on there for him! After blowing out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00160.jpg) all his candles, first try, time to cut (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2421.jpg) and eat cake! Dad was pretty happy with his gifts, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2426.jpg) even though they were electronic things for his tv (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2427.jpg) and computer (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2430.jpg) and DH had to install them. :teeth: (Notice the pretty princess paper we picked out for him? http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/tongue.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php))

Where we are in (sl)Ocala, we don't see fireworks. Some people in the neighborhood shoot some off, but nothing too exciting. There were just enough people shooting them off to freak out Taboo....who climbed up on her Dad (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2431.jpg) for comfort. We watched the Phillies game (again) and after that was over, we watched Gran Torino. Dad really enjoyed it and so did everyone else.

Called it a night after the movie. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep025.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

[jcc0621]

[SIZE="3"][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][B][U] I believe we settled in to watch the Phillies game.

We watched the Phillies game (again)

:banana::banana:

ANd you can tell you nephew it is NEVER the Pennsylvanian's fault;)

[Akdar]

Barb, the queen of the trip report, strikes again :thumbsup2

[Worfiedoodles]

I'm lovin' it! :woohoo:

Maria :upsidedow

[ClanHarrison]

Oh my gosh! I'm LOVIN' your TR. I can't believe how sucked in I got; I felt like I was there with you guys on the boat and I DON'T EVEN SWIM :laughing: . I was at my desk watching your video and was cheering & laughing out loud :rotfl: . Uuhhh...what a beautiful evening, on that boat, you guys had. That was the.coolest.thing.EVER, to pull up to the restaurant and "come as you are"...THE COOLEST.

Looks like a wonderful vacation thus far.

Thank you so much for sharing with us...and keep it comin'.


P.S. Something tells me I'm gonna be deflated when this TR is done :( , the same way I get when my vacations come to an end.

[ATAfamily]

Great trip report! Looking forward to reading more :surfweb:

[tlinus]

ahem

:rolleyes1

[circelli]

popcorn::

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk182/fgurlz_9741/smileys/45.gif

[bubba's mom]

Sorry guys...I am working on it. Niece is staying here for a week and a half. She's 16 1/2. She uses my computer.

Get it now? :rolleyes2

[bubba's mom]

Sunday, July 5 - Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Days 7 - 10

This is the boring part of the trippie....This was the rest of the time we spent at Dad's. My BIL & SIL left after lunch (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2436.jpg) today to get our nephew back home to his Mom.

The rest of the day we spent in the pool...and good thing, because the next 3 days it would rain, rain and rain some more. http://bestsmileys.com/weather/1.gif It wasn't a very good week to be in the pool because of the rain. But, we still had a good time and just enjoyed NOT being at home (or work) and relaxed....even though I did have to do a couple of loads of laundry. http://bestsmileys.com/cleaning/4.gif

Pool pix: Taboo in the pool, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2432.jpg) DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2434.jpg) & FIL, Bubba & DH goofin' (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2439.jpg) around and around. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2440.jpg) My Bubba. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00175.jpg) I even got my annual nap (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00177.jpg) in on Sunday. :teeth:

We even worked on teaching Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00179.jpg) to dive (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00180.jpg)....properly. Dive pic. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00181.jpg) Diving with Dad. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00184.jpg) Havin' fun hanging out (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00185.jpg) with Dad. Hangin' out 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00182.jpg) and hangin' out 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00183.jpg)

The highlight of this week at Dad's was what I think was Tuesday evening? We all went outside to see the space station flying by overhead. It was a very cool thing to see and I'm glad Dad kept track of what time it was and knew what direction it was coming from. Bubba thought it was pretty neat too...not because he knows what the space station IS, but because we told him it was IN space and he could see it from Earth....that was cool...according to him.

Watched the Phillies' games everynight and one night (Tuesday or Wednesday?) I even voted for the Phillie boy Shane to make it to the All Star game. My votes musta helped....he made it in. :banana: (even tho NL lost the game)

That about wraps up the first week in Florida. This few days in a row of rain were a bummer :sad2:....but it was okay....we knew the next part of our trip we were going back to Universal. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-dance005.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

We leave tomorrow...bittersweet. :worried:

[hollisterluva92]

Subbing! I'm in--it sounds like you've had a great time so far (minus the camera ordeal) but anyways--Can't wait to see all the good pics from universal!

[bubba's mom]

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Day 11

After breakfast this morning, it was time to pack up and get ready to head to the Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-transport027.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

We stayed at Dad's for lunch, and afterwards packed up the car and said our goodbyes. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2445.jpg) On our way, we stopped to get some ice for the styrofoam cooler we picked up at the grocery store for the room at Universal. We also picked up some cookies, bagels, cream cheese, milk, water, danish and donuts for breakfast. (This works well for us...holds us over till lunch when we usually get a snack and then have an early, big dinner .....OR a big lunch and late dinner...which is what BIL's family likes to do.)

We were on our way by about 1:30 and it was a nice drive down. We arrived at the PBH about 2:50pm and we unloaded the car. I took Bubba and the luggage to check-in, while DH went around the corner back to the Holiday Inn to return the rental car to Budget.

I learned our rooms were ready at check-in and we went up right away. We managed to get the same rooms as last year: king (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2455.jpg) bedroom 3333 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2457.jpg) and parlor 3335. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2452.jpg) We had this Portofino Suite last year, so there are a lot more pictures of it in last year's trip report. I couldn't see taking a bunch of the same pix as last year, so if you'd like to see more pictures, the link to last year's report is in my sig. King bathroom, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2461.jpg) shower (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2460.jpg) and tv. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2458.jpg) One thing was different for this year though...Bubba had the parlor room (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2454.jpg) to himself. He was very excited to have his own bed, tv and bathroom. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2453.jpg) He thought he was 'all that'. :woohoo: Tomorrow BIL and the family would be arriving and they would be getting the 2 queen bedroom on the other side of the parlor - 3337. This would give us 3 connecting rooms (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2613.jpg)....which would end up working out wonderfully. My SIL's parents would be in the room on the other side of us (not connecting) 3331. All in total, that's 4 showers for 11 people. Not bad. :thumbsup2

Anyway...Bubba & I were in the room waiting for 2 doorstops (to keep our connecting doors open) and for DH to get back from returning the rental car. When he returned, we headed to the Studios (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2462.jpg)....getting there about 4pm or so. Destination: MIB. But, since the last time we were here, a dayguest with no EP :scared:, I wanted to stop and do JN on the way. Ahhh....gotta love that EP.:goodvibes One note....when you enter the Studios, this turquoise building, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2463.jpg) near the corner, is where you would make your dining reservations. It's right behind the photo store on the corner...you can't miss it!

After JN let out, we headed to MIB (again), taking pix of the new HRRR, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2464.jpg) HRRR 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2465.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2466.jpg) 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2467.jpg) and Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2469.jpg) at Monster's Cafe. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2468.jpg) I've always wanted his picture here but always forgot. I got my pictures and we continued to head for MIB. I'm not fond of how they 'ruined' the NY scenery (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2470.jpg) with the new coaster, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2471.jpg) but I can get past it as long as the ride rocks. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-cool11.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2472.jpg) would be going into the firehouse as seen from Twister queue entrance. Because of the new coaster, I did notice the van and some other props were missing from the outside queue.

Bubba likes Twister (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2473.jpg) and wanted to stop and see that show....so we did. We walked right in. It's a good show...but only a "once a trip" type show for us. After Twister, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2474.jpg) we continued on to MIB (this is where Bubba wanted to go in the first place, remember?) and, oh, would you lookit that! Here's the Mummy. :teeth:

We really wanted to do it, so we did it "while we were there". So, we got on and started our adventure, but uh-oh...it was sorta 'broke'. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/what.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) The ride started out fine until the part you drop backwards and turn to the right to face front. After we stopped going backwards, we didn't turn right away. Then, after a few seconds or so, we started turning, but we could see the screen but not the image.:confused3 Come to think of it, I could see a lot more track than I normally do. Then, we shot up the hill and went through the rest of the ride with the lights on! :headache: None of the effects were working and we could see all the track plain as day. While I like the lights off, it was kinda neat to see it with the lights on. I pointed out to Bubba that part of track is even bolted to the floor...it doesn't drop "in the air" like it feels like you do in the dark. (I guess it would be like riding Space Mountain with the lights on?) I remember getting to the part of the ride where it stops you and the "lady" behind the screen on your left "thanks you for riding". None of that effect was working...no lights, no sound. :guilty: We just sat there and waited and waited.....After a minute or so, we were off again...the cameras weren't working either. By the time we returned to unload, everyone was being escorted out of the building and I noticed the white Fire light flashing behind the TM. I didn't think there was a fire, but something wasn't working right. As we left, I told DH that that ride sucked. He said it didn't suck as bad as the people who didn't have EP and waited over 30 minutes to ride it. Good point. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After this one spin on the Mummy, we finally made it over to MIB. I think we took a few spins (Galaxy Defender every time baby :cool1: ) before we headed for Simpson's....again...lovin' that EP. :woohoo: I think we only had one ride on the Simpson's because we were getting hungry and decided to search out something to eat for dinner.

On our way out, past the Kwik E Mart, I noticed this phone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2475.jpg) that I hadn't noticed last year....maybe it wasn't there last year? Anyhow, if you approach it, it does ring. We found out that someone different calls each time, but we're unsure how many different characters call...(hey...we were hungry and in search of eats! :snooty:) I thought it was funny and so did Bubba.

We headed out of the Studios to City Walk, passing HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2476.jpg) on the way. It was almost 7pm and we found ourselves at NBA City (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2783.jpg) for dinner. There wasn't any wait, we were seated right away. Now, you need to know, we are not basketball fans at all, but I wanted to try here. I was glad we did...it was very good....and, happy hour runs from 4-7 and since it was just about 7pm, our waiter said he'd give us the happy hour deal. We looked over the menu (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2477.jpg) and settled on: pizza (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0003.jpg) for Bubba, chicken sandwich (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0005.jpg) for me and shrimp and crab cannelloni (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0004.jpg) and salad (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0006.jpg) for DH. Since it wasn't really busy, the wait for our food (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2495.jpg) was relatively short and Bubba passed the time helping DH with a word search. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2508.jpg) When our food arrived, it was very delicious and very filling...except for Bubba and his pizza. I guess he was really hungry because he ordered dessert...the chocolate bomb! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0007.jpg) Of course DH & I had to have a taste and it was VERY rich!! Almost too chocolately (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0008.jpg) for my liking!! Not surprisingly, it was finished completely.

NBA City menu: Appetizers 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2485.jpg) and 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2486.jpg) sandwiches, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2487.jpg) pizzas, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2488.jpg) salads, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2481.jpg) pasta, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2482.jpg) Entrees: 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2478.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2479.jpg) 3, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2480.jpg) the kids (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2483.jpg) menu and drinks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2484.jpg) and, of course, the desserts (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2489.jpg) and more desserts. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2490.jpg) Drink menu 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2493.jpg) and 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2494.jpg)

Some pix from inside (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2491.jpg) NBA City: (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2492.jpg) 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2502.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2503.jpg) 3, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2504.jpg) 4 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2505.jpg) and 5. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2507.jpg)

We finished dinner around 8 and decided to head out over to IOA. On our way out, we sized up our hands (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2509.jpg) to Charles Barkley's. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2510.jpg) And just to be funny, I took a picture of the statue (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2511.jpg) out front.

After our silly pix, we headed to IOA. I have been wanting to ride the Hulk in the dark for a couple years now, but somehow always seem to miss it. It was just after 8 when we got in line and I didn't think it was dark enough to ride yet. By the time we made our way through the line, it was pretty dark. They were still letting people in line when we finished our ride, so we decided to hop on again. This time it was darker....and better! It's a great view of the park lit up at night. I only wish the ride went a bit slower so I could actually look around and take in the sights! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After two night spins on the Hulk, we left IOA to City Walk. I remembered Robert (rpbert1) was staying at RPR with his family so we figured we'd stroll over to see if they were in. (We both forgot to email each other earlier to set up a meet...so, I was winging it.) We walked over to RPR and the front desk clerk was nice enough to call up to his room, but they weren't in. So, I left a message http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-talk009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) and we headed back out to City Walk.

We stopped by Margaritaville to do some shopping. DH got a Landshark t-shirt and I got a Flip Flop Repair Shop t-shirt (in 2XL) to wear for a nightshirt. We puttered around the store for a bit until Bubba started looking tired. We made our purchases and headed to the Universal Store at City Walk to look for a gift for my niece (who was at home with my Mom taking care of Max the dog...remember?) We couldn't find anything we really liked, so we left and headed back to the PBH....taking a picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2514.jpg) of the Studios on the way by.

On our way back, we decided to cut through the HRH. When we stayed there a couple years ago, we forgot to buy a shotglass from there. (We collect shotglasses of places we've been.) I also inquired about which night the dive-in movie was and wanted to check out the menu for The Palm restaurant. Since we are Platinum with Loews You First, we had a $100 hotel food & beverage credit to use. At check-in, I inquired as to where I could use it and I was told at any place at PBH, except BICE, and it could be used at The Palm at HRH and Tchop Chop at RPR. We were trying to decide where to use it. I wasn't crazy about The Palm's menu, so we pretty much ruled it out then and there. Onward 'home'. On the way out, back to the PBH, I took a picture of this clock (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2521.jpg) that I really like at the HRH....ain't it kewl?

The menu at The Palm @ Hard Rock Hotel: 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2515.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2517.jpg) 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2518.jpg) and 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2519.jpg)

We arrived back at our room to a turndowned bed (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2522.jpg) and our VIP welcome gift. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2523.jpg) Bubba got ready for bed (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2525.jpg) while DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2526.jpg) hooked up my laptop for internets. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2527.jpg) http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-computer004.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After tucking Bubba into his bed (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2528.jpg) it wasn't too long after that we hit the hay.....before midnight actually.http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep012.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Tomorrow BIL and family arrive.

[Laura Ham]

Is that a CD of Universal park music with your welcome gift? That is an interesting choice.. I would like it. All the gifts seem to be a little different.
We are only blue level.:sad2:

[rpbert1]

Excellent report Barb, we got the rooms directly above you, and we got the same VIP gift

[macraven]

still reading along....

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

On our way out, past the Kwik E Mart, I noticed this phone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2475.jpg) that I hadn't noticed last year....maybe it wasn't there last year? Anyhow, if you approach it, it does ring. We found out that someone different calls each time, but we're unsure how many different characters call...(hey...we were hungry and in search of eats! :snooty:) I thought it was funny and so did Bubba.
We actually took cover by that phone last year at HHN when one of the famous Florida early evening downpours hit ... we kept answering the phone whenever it would ring, and it definitely kept us entertained until the rain let up :thumbsup2

[Akdar]

Hi Barb
Once again, I am late to the prom, just catching up with your report!! But, again, you are the trip report GODDESS!!!!! Does Randy really know he is married to an immortal LOLOLOLL

-Mike

[circelli]

bring it on !! popcorn::

[EPRV We love Disney]

Loving the report! Can't wait to hear more....

Thanks! E

[RAPstar]

Ack! Sorry for being late!! Great trippie so far, can't wait for more!!

[rpbert1]

:rolleyes1:rolleyes1:rolleyes1

[bubba's mom]

Sorry...been at Wildwood Crest, NJ since Thursday.....

Will get back to it this week. ;)

[NashvilleTrio]

As always, great report so far! I'm enjoying it. And take your time on it...We've been down to UO twice this year and haven't even started a trip report yet, so don't feel bad. We'll all be sad when it's over, so stretch it out! :thumbsup2

By the way, has Randy lost weight? It looks like he has since we met in 2007...
And Bubba has shot up like a weed - he's so tall!
-Mel

[bubba's mom]

By the way, has Randy lost weight? It looks like he has since we met in 2007...
And Bubba has shot up like a weed - he's so tall!
-Mel

Mof, yes he did. After we got home last year, he put his mind to riding the bike (while watching tv) and I cut out his after dinner/before bed snacks. He lost about 35-40lbs and has kept it off. He's almost at his goal weight, but now has dropped his riding time (to about 1/2 hr) and is lifting more weights. He wants to build more muscle. I've been with my husband about 20 years, and this is the first he's been under 200lbs. (okay...maybe when we first started dating, he was in the 180/190s, but by the time we got married ('93) he was 200lbs+). He's done excellent at getting healthier and I couldn't be more proud of him :goodvibes

As for Bubba...yep...he's growing like a weed! He's got the long legs. At 10.5 yrs old, he's a nice 5' tall already! Oh boy! :rolleyes2

[tlinus]

popcorn::

:rolleyes1


:cool2:

[LilKintnerBoy]

:rolleyes1

popcorn::

[rpbert1]

:rolleyes1

popcorn::

Whats happening Randy, tell barb to get a move on.

[LilKintnerBoy]

Whats happening Randy, tell barb to get a move on.
I'm working on her, but things have been hectic around the house recently between our niece being here and getting ready for back to school. She says she's done she just has to sit down and add the picture links... so hopefully it won't be too long now...I'm looking forward to it as much as the rest...Love seeing how she sees the trips from her point of view as opposed to mine (which is pretty much "Ride, Party, Ride, Party, Sleep... repeat" :thumbsup2 )

[rpbert1]

I'm working on her, but things have been hectic around the house recently between our niece being here and getting ready for back to school. She says she's done she just has to sit down and add the picture links... so hopefully it won't be too long now...I'm looking forward to it as much as the rest...Love seeing how she sees the trips from her point of view as opposed to mine (which is pretty much "Ride, Party, Ride, Party, Sleep... repeat" :thumbsup2 )

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[RVGal]

I am waaaay behind all over the place, but I'm trying to catch up! :flower3:

I'm sorry the weather didn't cooperate with you on this trip. Rainy, cool temps just don't work for a good Florida getaway. Time away with family is good, but still. I wish the hot weather had cooperated with you. I know how you hate the cold.

Glad you made it back to Universal as something other than *gasp* a day guest. :snooty: :rotfl:

[bubba's mom]

Is that a CD of Universal park music with your welcome gift? That is an interesting choice.. I would like it. All the gifts seem to be a little different.
We are only blue level.:sad2:


It's not park music...it's Italian music. Music they play around the Portofino hotel.

I'm working on the next day....honest :blush:

[tiggerplus5]

Hello!

I just found your trip report. You got me hooked.

Our family arrived in Florida on July 11th and spent the first few days @US and IOA. I can't wait to see more pics. Maybe my family is in them :goodvibes

[bubba's mom]

Just to let you all know, I am almost finished inserting pix for the next day. I worked on it for a few hours yesterday and I'm up to dinnertime.

I will try to get it up before bed tonite... fingers crossed!

[rpbert1]

:banana::banana::cool1::dance3::yay::woohoo:

[tlinus]

:cool1::cool1:


:thumbsup2

[bubba's mom]

Friday, July 10, 2009

Day 12

Of course we slept in today. A bright, sunny day awaited us. http://bestsmileys.com/sun/3.gif

We had our breafast and served Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2531.jpg) breakfast in his own bed (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2532.jpg) before getting ready for the parks. After breakfast we got our acts together, put our swimsuits on and headed for IOA.

We were just getting off the boat at City Walk around 11am when BIL called (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00190.jpg) saying he was checking into the Portofino. We just left! Had we known, we would've hung out and waited for them! http://bestsmileys.com/doh/2.gif Oh well...we're at City Walk now....told him to call us when he was on his way to the park. View (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00191.jpg) of City Walk outside IOA. View 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00192.jpg) 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00193.jpg) and 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00194.jpg)

We took the same picture of Margaritaville (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00187.jpg) that we take every year....and, this year, one with Bubba & I's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00188.jpg) approval.

We headed into IOA (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2533.jpg) and DH wanted to shoot some video and take some pix with his new videocamera. I (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00195.jpg) decided to try and take some different pictures. Every year we see the same pictures from the same spots. I wanted to try and get some different views...so, off I went. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00197.jpg) Here's 3 Broomsticks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00199.jpg) being built and Mythos (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2536.jpg) too. Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2542.jpg) too. A pic of Suess (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2534.jpg) Landing and Sneetch Beach. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2535.jpg) Harry Potter construction behind Jurassic Park Discovery Center. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2537.jpg) Me Ship (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2538.jpg) the Olive. And, of course we were standing right underneath (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2539.jpg) the HULK. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2540.jpg)

We asked Bubba what he wanted to ride first and, to our surprise, he said Dudley. This isn't a ride he's fond of, so I asked why. He said the conversation we had earlier about it made him feel better about riding. (He thought it was a 'free riding' ride. We explained the car you ride in is actually on a track..like a rollercoaster. We even pointed it out on the finale drop and that seemed to 'comfort' him about riding it.) ;) So...to Dudley we went. Passing thru Marvel (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2543.jpg) Superhero Island (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2546.jpg) on the way....snapping (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2545.jpg) some pix (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2544.jpg) on the way. This pic (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2550.jpg) didn't turn out as well as last year's...but it's fun to try!

On our way, we saw Popeye & Olive Oyl posing for pix. Bubba is at "that age" where he doesn't want to pose with the characters, so I do! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2547.jpg) I went up and stood between them and said "coolest wet ride in the park". They loved that comment!! http://bestsmileys.com/lol/6.gif After my picture, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00202.jpg) we rode Dudley. DH sat in the front with Bubba between us. As we were loading, the phone rang. It was BIL. We called him back when we got off the ride and they were on their way to the park. We told them we'd meet them at Popeye.

Now would be the place to ask if anyone's noticed the dryers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2551.jpg) outside Dudley...and Popeye for that matter? This is the first year we've seen them, and they are a freakin' riot!! Two people can fit in 1 and it costs $5. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2552.jpg) It doesn't say for how long you get your "blow dry", but I did see some guy using the one outside Popeye the next day. (Why I don't know because it was sunny and hot out?!?!)

We sat at the Popeye statue (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00203.jpg) and waited for the crew to show. It wasn't too long before they arrived. First ride they wanted to do? Popeye of course! And, you don't think once is enough, do you? Nope. Not for this group...of course not. So, we took a couple more rides on Popeye. Pix:
DH & Bubba, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0009.jpg) BIL, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0010.jpg) around Me Ship (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0011.jpg) the Olive, BIL, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0012.jpg) DH (in background) & Bubba, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0013.jpg) our SIL & niece, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0015.jpg) going up, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0016.jpg) Bubba watchin' (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0017.jpg) where he's goin', the family, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0019.jpg) the brothers, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0022.jpg) Bubba getting nailed! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0023.jpg) Our nephew & SIL, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0026.jpg) cousins (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0027.jpg) and our niece & I. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0032.jpg)

After a few spins on Popeye, it was time to have lunch. We decided to eat at Comic Strip Cafe (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0033.jpg)....pretty decent food here. (I didn't take many pictures in here because I took a boatload last year. More pix in last year's trippie...link to that in my sig.) We ate here last year and decided because of the size of our group (8) and the selection available, it was a good choice. While everyone, but Bubba & I, went to stand in line to order, Bubba & I went to score some seats. Not easy looking for 8 seats together since it was busy with Brazillian tour groups. Luckily, the lunch gods were watching out for us that day, because as I approached the rear seating area, a big group got up...leaving an empty table of....yep....8! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-happy036.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) I had Bubba sit at the one end of the table while I secured the other end. At least 3 different girls asked, at various times, if they could steal my chairs and I had to tell them sorry. While Bubba and I were sitting there (for a long time), I did notice a lot of these Brazillian tour groups are girls. Very few guys seem to be in these groups. If I were a Brazillian dude, I'd seriously think about trying to score a trip with these groups. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-cool14.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Like I said, after a loooong wait, DH and crew (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0038.jpg) returned with food. Bubba had a pizza, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0037.jpg) our niece Casey had spaghetti, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0034.jpg) other niece Corinne had the chicken (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0036.jpg) and everyone else had a cheeseburger. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0035.jpg) Everyone said their food was good and had no complaints...especially when there's beer (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0039.jpg) to be had! We were just finishing up when the rest of the family arrived and DH got a text (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0041.jpg) from his cousin who lives in Orlando. Turns out he was in the park last night looking for us, but not only did we not have our phone on, we didn't even have it with us! Anyway, the rest of the family had checked into the Portofino and met us over at IOA. This group consisted of: Grumpy (SIL's Dad), Donna her Mom, Nana (obvious who she is), Sushi her sister and Peyton her baby boy. (Sushi's husband Zane was at work and would meet up with us later at HRH Beach Club for dinner.)

On our way over (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00205.jpg) to Jurassic Park, we HAVE to stop and shoot the water cannons (from the bridge) at the unsuspecting people ending their Dudley ride. On our way, I saw this gal and had my picture taken with her. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2553.jpg) Go ahead, laugh...it's silly. But, I'm on vacation and I pay a lot of money to act silly! She was very nice and had the character's voice down to a 't'.

Picture over...onward to squirt the nice people (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2557.jpg) :teeth: We stood here about 10 minutes just plunking quarter after quarter into the machines. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2559.jpg) After a while, we'd even holler to them and they'd look up at us on the bridge and smile and wave. Then, BAM!! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing021.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Nailed 'em (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2560.jpg) with the water cannon! Hehe...you have to laugh...even if you are the victim!! Worth $5 anyday for a good chuckle! Sometimes it's the little things, ya know?

I also happened to get a good picture of the Pteranodon Flyers ride (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2556.jpg) at JP too for those who wonder what the ride actually is.

On the way into JP area, we all decided to trek over to JP River Adventure. Some of us rode JPRA while the rest went inside to the Burger Digs to get lunch and feed the baby. We weren't long on the ride before we met up with the rest of the troops. Sushi was still feeding the baby by the time we returned, and some of us wanted to ride DD and headed that way. Whoever wasn't riding, stayed put and we'd meet up when we were finished.

First let me mention, there are no pix http://bestsmileys.com/nono/6.gif of the new/temporary entrance to Dueling Dragons because I left my camera in my bag back at Burger Digs with the family that wasn't riding DD.

Second, let me say how crowded that entrance way to DD is! http://bestsmileys.com/scared/4.gif And...there is only 4 or 5 sets of lockers...instead of the usual 14 or 15, that I saw anyway! Makes for a confusing, crowded, hot mess if ya ask me. We walked the very new, very loooong walk around the Harry Potter construction to DD. We got to the bottom of the steps at the EP entrance and hear the announcement. Yep, of course. DD has been shut down due to thunder and lightening in the area. Well, we have EP. You don't think we're gonna stand there and wait, do ya?

Didn't think so. ;)

So, we headed back the looong walk toward JP Discovery Center to hook up with the family we left behind, stopping by The Watering Hole (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2561.jpg) along the way. Drinks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2563.jpg) in hand, we headed for the Discovery Center. This was one wicked storm that trapped us (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00210.jpg) at the JP Discovery Center/Burger Digs for almost 2 hours. There was thunder and lightening and nobody (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00209.jpg) was going anywhere in that...no matter we were dressed in swimsuits or not! Luckily, The Watering Hole was just around the corner and DH & BIL donned ponchos (had to keep the drinks dry) and kept running around back and forth for happy hour. We even tried to the get the weather radar to come up on BIL's phone, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00208.jpg) but it was just too stormy....couldn't get it.

Just after 4pm, the thunder and lightening part of the storm passed enough we could finally move on. We walked (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00215.jpg) back toward the park over the bridge (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2572.jpg) to the Lost Continent. 3 Broomsticks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2564.jpg) is shaping up in place of (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2571.jpg) the Enchanted Oak. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2568.jpg) We saw this bird (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00211.jpg) flappin' it's wings trying to dry off. Took a couple more pix of the Harry Potter area they're building and few pictures of the family (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00221.jpg) back on the move. You can see Flying Unicorn here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2567.jpg) in the Harry Potter area.

We found ourselves in the LC carny games (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2574.jpg) area. This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2576.jpg) is where they closed off the path to DD. Be nice when it's back open again....the long way stinks! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Anyway, we played some milk bottle toss, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00223.jpg) dart throw and ring toss. The kids had a good time...they deserved some fun after being so good 'trapped' at the Discovery Center (there's only SO much to see and do there...especially for almost 2 hours!) BIL won (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00233.jpg) a big, fat nothing, while Bubba won a little monkey. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00238.jpg) Peyton didn't play, but he had fun (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00237.jpg) anyway!

Speaking of Peyton, Sushi wanted him to take a ride on the Car-O-Suess-El....so, it was about 5pm, we headed toward (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00242.jpg) Suess Landing to do that. We headed out of Lost Continent, passing Mythos, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2578.jpg) toward Suess Landing.

I don't know why we didn't ride anything else in Suess Landing, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2579.jpg) but we didn't. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-confused005.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Those of the group who rode (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00256.jpg) had a good time... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00255.jpg) especially Peyton. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00251.jpg) He really had a good time! Bubba & Nana. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00246.jpg) our group, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00250.jpg) SIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00252.jpg) and her "cool" ride.

After a spin on the Car-O-Suess-El, it was on to Spiderman. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2582.jpg) Party of 11 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2583.jpg) for Spidey. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2584.jpg) Always a good show...one of the best rides ever in my opinion! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-fc/spidy.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Afterwards, we met those who didn't go across the street to plan (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2585.jpg) the next stop. As you could imagine with 12 people, it takes a long time to make a decision and get from one point to another. Here's the gang (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2586.jpg) hanging out and striking a pose.

The decision was to head to HRH since it was almost 6:30. We needed to stop at PBH for some stuff before heading to the Beach Club at HRH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00276.jpg) for dinner and dive-in movie. On the way out, BIL stopped at Cinnabon (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2593.jpg) in Port of Entry. http://bestsmileys.com/drooling/4.gif I thought he was getting breakfast (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2594.jpg) for the morning...well, I guess he was. But, he did cut 1 bun (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2597.jpg) into quarters and gave each kid a piece on a fork. Since all that rain, the sun still hadn't come back out, I was chilly. I offered to carry the very warm box for BIL. :teeth: Bubba's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2592.jpg) piece, Casey's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2595.jpg) piece and Corinne & Ricky's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2596.jpg) piece. SIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2598.jpg) opted to wait for dinner. ;)

As luck would have it, there was a boat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00257.jpg) at City Walk for the Portofino just filling up. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00259.jpg) I think this was the trip that we started the 'wave'. Family in the front (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00262.jpg) of the boat and the back part. There were a few other goofy people getting in on the act...it was probably the weirdest ride we ever had on the boat, but all in good fun! IF the boat is already there, we take it (we won't "wait" for it). We decided to hop on the boat and cruise back to PBH. (with that very warm box on my lap :goodvibes ) DH took some video and pictures on the boat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00261.jpg) on the way back. By the time we arrived back at the Portofino, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00270.jpg) I had to apologize to my BIL for sucking all the warm out of his box of Cinnabons. :rolleyes1 (DH took pix (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00271.jpg) of all 12 of us, and the stroller, in the elevator (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00273.jpg)...cuz, that's a lot of people ya know http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-scared009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) )

While back at our room, I was so chilly, I changed out of swimduds and into regular shorts and sneakers with socks. (Had I had jeans with me, I woulda worn them...I was that chilly!) http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-gen125.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Not too long after 7pm, we headed for the Beach Club. According to my niece, Casey, we were NOT to miss the dive-in movie starting.... Twilight. (No matter she owns the movie and has seen it a million times :rolleyes:) Luckily, it was not busy and we were able to put a few tables together (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00278.jpg) for us and just have the kids' table next to us. While waiting for dinner, the kids played games and pool (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00289.jpg)....apparently with all that rain, the pool was very cold and the kids didn't want to stay in too long.

We ordered (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00280.jpg) and it didn't really take too long for our food. Bubba had grilled cheese (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2600.jpg) and mozarella sticks, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2601.jpg) Ricky had the sampler, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2603.jpg) Corinne had the pizza (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2602.jpg) and I can't remember what Casey had...pizza also I'm thinkin'? Either way, they were all very hungry (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2606.jpg) (& some eager to see the movie) and devoured their dinners.

Chicken wings (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2605.jpg) and nachos (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2604.jpg) were ordered for appetizers.... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2607.jpg) always a big hit with this crew. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2608.jpg) I had a chicken BLT, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2609.jpg) BIL had a cheeseburger (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2610.jpg) and SIL had some sorta salad (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2611.jpg) and split a chicken sandwich with Nana. I know Peyton had a hotdog, but I don't remember what everyone else ordered....and, there aren't any pix? ...which is SO not like me...wonder what happened?? http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif

Toward the end of dinner, my SIL had an uninvited guest. While sitting and talking, DH noticed something jump on the table. He was just saying "what the heck is....." when it jumped again and landed on the side of my SIL's head! We noticed it was a small frog!! She started to freak out (but didn't want to hurt it) and managed to swoosh it off her head onto her arm, where she was able to finally see it and flick it into the planter tree behind her. Yes...she was freaking out. But, she's a trooper and she got over it pretty quick....sip of wine didn't hurt either ;) . It was a great laugh....after the fact..... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2612.jpg)

Anyhow...we ate and hung out at the Beach Club for awhile....had to be around 10pm when we left.

We got home and Ryan decided to relax listening to some tunes (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00294.jpg) before bed....again, that whole 'got my OWN room... cool' thing goin on....

A very long day....bed was after midnight. But, no matter, no reason to get up early tomorrow. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep012.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

[macraven]

i'm all caught up now on your trippie.

your reports are always great to read !!
:thumbsup2

[Worfiedoodles]

I think the reason the Brazilian groups are mostly girls is the girls are given the trips to celebrate their Quincineras -- turning 15 and becoming a woman. I'm sure there are many parents that do not want a bunch of young fellas along!

Maria :upsidedow

[rpbert1]

Another excellent report Barb, and some great Pics.#
I love soaking people at Dudleys,Its nearly as good as riding, Lily cannot understand why:confused3

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

We always have to take that same picture of Margaritaville every trip too :rotfl:

[RAPstar]

I cannot wait to be back there!!!! You always have the best pics Brab!

[amystevekai&bump]

I alway love your trip reports :)- I reckon you must be the best trip report writer on all of the boards!! :thumbsup2

[Worfiedoodles]

Lookin' for my lost shaker of Salt! Salt! Salt!

A trip to Uni is not complete without a visit to Margaritaville. I don't care if I have to eat the volcano nachos all by myself (ok, I can't really, but I could make a dent!).

Maria :upsidedow

[rpbert1]

Just checking in for the next instalment Barb:confused3
just changed my plans as well Barb, not doing Disney next August, booking Universal for the 7th July next year, so will see you there if our dates coincide.

[bubba's mom]

Don't worry Maria...Mville is comin ;)

Robert...what happened to Disney? :confused3 Hope you are keeping plans w/ the family tho! I *think* we are going to be at Universal the week of July 12th-ish....I forget the exact date we arrive...but, it's like a Monday or Tuesday and we're shooting for flying home that Saturday night.

Plans are made, always apt to change :laughing: (except for the cruise...that's not changing!)

[rpbert1]

Hi Barb, yeah this is why they have changed, had to cancel Disney, now staying Universal 7th July to 14th July then St petes for a week, then we are flying to las vegas for 5 days meeting cousins there, and then back to palm Springs for a couple of days , before heading to the mountains for a weks camping, and hopefully 4 days in San francisco at another cousins, and then back to LA for a couple of days before flying home.Will keep an eye on your dates.
Hope everyone is doing good

[bubba's mom]

:wave2:

So you know, I worked on the next day all day yesterday and today and was thisclose to finishing and posting....that is, until I lost power on my laptop. Whatever happened, it corrupted the file and I lost it...all of it....luckily, only that day.

http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry019.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)


So, hopefully soon it'll be back to square 1 with that day...sob.....

[klacey1]

Oh, no! Sorry about your computer :-(

[rpbert1]

:wave2:

So you know, I worked on the next day all day yesterday and today and was thisclose to finishing and posting....that is, until I lost power on my laptop. Whatever happened, it corrupted the file and I lost it...all of it....luckily, only that day.

http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry019.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)


So, hopefully soon it'll be back to square 1 with that day...sob.....

all that work lost Barb. I am sure you felt like throwing it out the window haha, as i know you put a lot of time into the reports, which is why we are all waiting in,













ANTICIPATION

:worship::thumbsup2

[bubba's mom]

Yes...they are a lot of work. I don't think it's EVER taken me this long to finish one....I'm sorry :flower3:

DH has been sick since Sunday (flu)....mof, we're all fighting it. Not been fun here this week...and, haven't felt like dealing with small print typing. :guilty:

I have some done and keep chipping away at it. Maybe by the holidays? :rolleyes1

[rpbert1]

Sorry to hear your all not feeling good, hope you all get better soon, tell Randy and Bubba we are asking about them , and hope they feel better sooner rather than later:sick:

[tlinus]

So........

:rolleyes1























:lmao:

[rpbert1]

Wheres Barb

[bubba's mom]

I know, I know.... :rolleyes1


I had Thanksgiving dinner here yesterday and was up at 4:30 to go Black Friday shopping :faint:

I really want to finish it up (never taken this long before :sad2: )...I know if it's not finished by the holidays, it won't get done.

It just keeps getting put on hold.

I'll see what happens after work tomorrow.... tonite we have karate and since I've been up since 4:30am, I think I'll be going to bed early tonite! :laughing:

[pixeegrl]

Okay, Barb, bumped our trip up 4 months to the end of August. You need to finish, we are getting excited and your TR are so fun to read!

[bubba's mom]

I know....I'm sorry youse guys :sad2: Has NEVER taken this long.... I appreciate that people actually read my reports! :laughing:

I am working on DH's birthday coming Saturday...Bubba's in < 2 weeks.

Also looking for a hotel in Tampa for night before our cruise this summer.

I haven't forgotten...it's just a busy holiday season and now January..... I know, I know...not an excuse! :headache:

I will try to get to it soon...promise.

Toss that mummy dust for me! :rolleyes1

[jenseib]

I found your report yesterday. I loved last years and love this years as well. I'm trying to coax DH into going to Universal this year. So far not getting very far. He doesn't want to go anywhere! :scared1:
I have a question about the lockers. How does that work. Do you have to put your bag in a lokcer every time you ride anything? Or just the big stuff? I read the 1st 45 minutes are fee, but what if you are gone longer than that, how does that work? IF we go...and thats a big if, I will want to bring my big camera at least 2 days, and so I know that will have to go in a locker, along with my money if I bring a purse. Just tryingto get all the info I can, in case I get a yes. :love:

[pixeegrl]

The rides that require lockers are free up to a certain point. It all depends on what the wait time posted is. So if the wait time is say 30 minutes. That's how long they are free. Any time after that and it's a couple of dollars I think. If you stay onsite though you can go on multiple times before time runs out lol. We did this on MIB. We must have rode it 10 times in a row one day!

[jenseib]

Thanks. If we go, definately will be off site. So do all the rides require you do this?

[pixeegrl]

Thanks. If we go, definately will be off site. So do all the rides require you do this?
I can't remember off the top of my head but if you ask on the boards. Mac or Metro or one of the other vets will chime in :D

[bubba's mom]

US: Mummy and MIB

IOA: DD and Hulk

That's all...I *think* :rolleyes:

[jenseib]

Great! Thanks. I was worried I that we would have to be hitting lockers half the trip. LOL!

[Timmy Boy]

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit requires them as well. When Harry Potter opens, the attraction within Hogwarts Castle will most likely require lockers too. So that's 3 attractions per park.

[bubba's mom]

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Day 13


We woke to a bright, beautiful, sunny day (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00297.jpg) (I mean, so far, this IS Florida ya know!) After BIL's troops polished off the Cinnabons from yesterday and we had our breakfast, we all decided to head to the Studios today. Some went ahead and waited downstairs (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00295.jpg) for the rest of us....some went to get coffee.

We all ended up meeting at the boat dock...and since the boat was there, (you remember the rule), we all hopped aboard. Shockingly, by about 10:30am, we were on our way to the park!

It's been a couple years since we've had our picture taken in front of the globe, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2617.jpg) so today was the day we decided to take our picture in front of it ....and BIL's family (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2618.jpg) too. When we got home, I compared it to our family picture from 2007 and I won't go into how much our Bubba grew!! :scared:

We stopped at JN when we arrived at the Studios, and were just about to walk by HRRR, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2619.jpg) when the phone rang. It was FIL with a computer issue. So, while DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2620.jpg) tried to talk him thru his problem, Bubba admired HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2623.jpg) and BIL & SIL tried on some hats. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2622.jpg) I guess the locals were trying to look like tourists?

After about 10 minutes on the phone with Dad, we started walking...which, is normally what our clan does. We just start walking with no particular place to go and end up somewhere. Today, after passing Louie's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2624.jpg) and the statue, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2626.jpg) we learned the Beetlejuice (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2627.jpg) show was just getting ready to start...so, that's where we ended up. This is not a show we will wait for, but we will see it if it's just about to start. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2628.jpg) One reason is because we've seen it and until they change it, there's no need to go out of our way to see it. It's always a fun show...even in the 'cheap seats'. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00300.jpg) Show pix: 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00301.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00302.jpg) 3, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00303.jpg) 4, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00306.jpg) 5 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00307.jpg) and 6. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00308.jpg)

After the show, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00309.jpg) we started walking (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00310.jpg) again, stopped (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2629.jpg) to use the restrooms. I took this pic (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2630.jpg) for my girl Tracie. (See...I didn't forgetcha!) After some more (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00311.jpg) walking, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00312.jpg) we found ourselves in line for Disaster! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2631.jpg) This is now a must do for us each year...heck, almost each day! We really like this attraction since it became Disaster!

We *almost* made it in for that show, but we were stopped just before the door...under the canopy! How can you complain about being stuck out in the shade? So, while waiting, someone in our group went across the street and got some nuts. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2632.jpg) It was something to snack on until the show....and hold hungry tummies over until after Disaster!... when we planned to go across the street to Lombard's for lunch.

Every year DH gets a picture of me taking a picture... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00315.jpg)this year was no different. This was the moment he decided to take his shot. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00314.jpg) I was taking (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2633.jpg) a couple of pictures (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2634.jpg) inside because I was never in a good standing position to do so before. I was so close to the wall, I couldn't get the whole thing (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00316.jpg) in 1 shot. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00317.jpg)

Disaster! was a riot once again. DH, BIL & DNe (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00320.jpg) were chosen (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00318.jpg) as the 3 villians. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00319.jpg) They (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00322.jpg) did a great job and were hilarious! Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00323.jpg) they are getting instruction. DNe (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00324.jpg) making sure he knows what to do. Ready? (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00326.jpg) Camera. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00327.jpg) ACTION! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00328.jpg)

Everyone did a great job...they want everyone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00330.jpg) to be included in the filming.

Here is a link to what I could record...finished product starts at 3:18 toward the end: Video. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLNYWIED__c)

As I mentioned, Lombard's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2637.jpg) was the next stop for lunch. Nobody from our group had ever eaten here (altho we tried last year, but it was closed?) so we weren't sure what to expect. Seafood. That's what to expect. And, for those who don't care for seafood, like me (& my SIL is allergic to it), there are plenty of alternatives. We only had about a 20 minute wait, so we used the restrooms and took some pix (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00333.jpg) in the lobby (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00334.jpg) while waiting. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00336.jpg) This is a beautiful restaurant with a really neat aquarium (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2650.jpg) in the center (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2651.jpg) of it. To have the table next to it (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2652.jpg) would be really cool.

We sat the kids (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2649.jpg) at a table for 4 behind our table and it worked out wonderfully. The menu: starters, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2639.jpg) salads, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2640.jpg) soups, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2641.jpg) sandwiches, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2642.jpg) entrees (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2643.jpg) and the children's menu 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2646.jpg) and 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2647.jpg)

We ordered wings (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0043.jpg) and calamari (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0042.jpg) for appetizers and drinks for everyone.

I had the NE Clam Chowder soup. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0051.jpg) DNi had the spaghetti, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0045.jpg) DS had the ravioli (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0044.jpg) (which he said was very good!), DNe had a bacon cheeseburger, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0046.jpg) DNi had fish & fries, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0047.jpg) SIL split the Asian chicken sandwich (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0048.jpg) with Nana, Grumpy had the fish & chips (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0049.jpg) and DH had the steak sandwich. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCI0050.jpg)

Everyone enjoyed their food and had no complaints. I did ask Grumpy how his fish n chips were compared to the fish n chips at Finnegan's and he said they were the same. Guessing maybe the same food vendor? :confused3

Anyhow...desserts (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2653.jpg) were like at Finnegan's too...shotdesserts... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2658.jpg)and of course, nobody complained (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2656.jpg) about those!

After lunch, we headed in the direction of Simpsons & MIB...passing a Fear Factor (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2660.jpg) show in progress...so, we kept walkin. I do believe the vote was for MIB first and that was a few spins. I had a really awesome score, but I lost it when I tried to do this report day before. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) When our clan goes, we always win and have high scores. I don't think my DH and BIL get less than 300-400K each time? After a few spins on MIB, DS & DNe posed for a cute pic. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2661.jpg) (Don't tell them it's "cute" tho!) :ssst:

Next up was Simpson's, and this was once or twice. Bubba couldn't wait to show his cousins (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2665.jpg) how the phone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2663.jpg) outside the Kwik E Mart rings (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2664.jpg) and there is actually someone on the other end! We didn't figure out what trips the phone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2662.jpg) to ring when someone is near it, but the cousins thought this was hilarious! They had a good time for about 5 minutes with that phone!! :goodvibes

And we are......movin' on..... http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-cool07.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Headed toward ET and Woody's Coaster. We stopped to taking the annual traditional picture w/ Woody. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2670.jpg)

While waiting in line for some beverages, we caught the show. The characters (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2666.jpg) came out and started doing their show. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00337.jpg)

It's not long and they will tell you where the characters will be for photo op's after the performance. (I don't get a lot of character photos because Bubba isn't into that anymore..so, if I want any character pix, it's gonna be me!) I did get a pic of my SIL & niece (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2667.jpg)...who is, as you can see, quite in love with the camera. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-rolleyes008.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Show over and beverages in hand, we all decided it was Mummy time and started to head in that direction. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00339.jpg) Took this picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2671.jpg) for my girl Mac...didn't forgetchu either. I don't know why, but I took this picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2672.jpg) on the way too.

We usually cut through Delancy St. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00341.jpg) and today was no different. Just across from the end of Delancy St. is the Delorean. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00340.jpg) Glad to see it's still there. We took some pictures of the cars (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00343.jpg) from the Fast & the Furious (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2673.jpg) movie they had sitting there.

Right around the corner was Mummy! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2679.jpg) And, yet another picture of HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2674.jpg) just because it was there and a different angle! We are getting to the point where just about all of our group (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2678.jpg) will ride the Mummy now. :cool1:

Not many stay behind and this time was no different. So, a couple of spins with different group members was in order.

After our last ride on the Mummy, we noticed it was getting close to time to heading back to the hotel to get ready for our reservations at Margaritaville. Good time too, as the sky (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2681.jpg) was getting pretty dark. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2680.jpg) Storm was a'brewin! :eek:

We started to hoof it to the exit and as we rounded the corner, I saw the blackest sky (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2682.jpg) I had EVER seen in Florida! :scared1: (and we were in Florida for Hurricane Charley in '04!) On our way to the exit, I remember thinking..."oh my..this isn't going to be good!" :sad2:

So we rushed everyone out of the park (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2683.jpg) and couldn't believe our luck that a boat was just boarding to fill up to head to the hotel. We decided to grab the boat...which, after a while, made me wonder if that was a good idea? http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-confused002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

They let us board the boat, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2684.jpg) but then we sat there almost 15 minutes while they tried to determine if they were going to go? Go already and it wouldn't be a problem!! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry023.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Nobody was really coming and it felt like an eternity we sat there...all the while watching the dark claim more of the sky above. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2687.jpg)

Finally, they did decide to go and we were off. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2690.jpg) I had never seen such a dark sky (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2691.jpg) over CityWalk, and such blue skies (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2689.jpg) over the parks. Like night and day. Half way to the hotel, the rain started...and it was heavy! The sky opened up and it poured buckets! As we docked at the Portofino, I took my flipflops off and we all RAN from the boat to the hotel entrance (the West Wing..which, is the closest entrance and not far at all) getting completely soaked in the process. I kid you not, I was as wet running from the boat to the hotel entrance as I was after riding Popeye! My flipflops stayed relatively dry tho...mostly because I took them off! :idea:

We all crammed into 1 elevator and headed up to the rooms to get ready for our 7:30 dinner res at Margaritaville. Having the 2 bedroom Portofino Suite, along with the other standard room on the other side of our bedroom, was going to help greatly in getting ready to go. 11 people and 4 showers was a good plan...and, it worked fabulously! We all were ready in plenty of time...BUT, BIL had a leaky window in their room :rolleyes: We had to call maintenance up to look at it. Well, it seemed forever till they got there, and once they did, they stood around and did a lot of scratchin' the ole head! They had no idea what to do. I believe them being there was about 15 minutes or so, and they found out the people in the room directly above them had left their balcony doors open and that was the cause of the leak. Whether that was true or not, I have no idea. I do know BIL mentioned something about a discount, but I don't know if he mentioned it at checkout and got anything or not?

We were finally on our way out of the hotel at 7:30 for our 7:30 reservation at Margaritaville. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2696.jpg) I called the restaurant as we were getting off the elevator to let them know we were on our way. I apologized and explained we had had a problem with a leak in our room and that delayed us. They said "no problem" and I assured them we were on our way.

On our way in our rain ponchos because it was STILL pouring. http://bestsmileys.com/weather/1.gif We decided to walk because the boat was not there and most likely not running in the rain anyway. We figured we'd get there faster.

We were a half an hour late for our reservation, but our table was set and still waiting for us. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-happy036.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) After we sat down and got settled, I took the handtowel from our bathroom out of my bag and dried my legs off and changed the flipflops I was wearing (I knew my feet would get soaked, so I brought a small towel and change of flops :) ) A couple of others used the towel to dry off their legs and hands, but thank goodness for rain ponchos...our clothes were dry. (and, in an airconditioned restaurant, you don't want wet clothes!)

After getting settled and ordering (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00349.jpg) our (two) nachos, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2708.jpg) and calamari, the kids had the poor stiltwalker making all sorts of balloon things. They started with parrothead hats, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2703.jpg) then some monkeys, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2700.jpg) then Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2701.jpg) got the idea to make the monkeys attached to a 'hat'. Even Nana (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2704.jpg) got in on the action, and SIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2706.jpg) got parrotheaded (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00367.jpg) too! Then they had some more monkeys on hats, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2699.jpg) even BIL got a bike (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2712.jpg) (there was a joke with that one)....but all the kids (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00368.jpg) decided to go with a gummybear (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00369.jpg) party. Everyone got something...the kids more than 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2707.jpg) balloon craft!

Now, every year, I take menu pix. I don't know why, but I did, so here they are: soups/sides, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00350.jpg) salads, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00351.jpg) grille/catch of the day, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00352.jpg) adult beverages, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00354.jpg) burgers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00353.jpg) and beer/wine/desserts. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00356.jpg)

As for dinner, everything was good as usual...including my margaritas. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink043.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) There aren't any pix of food from dinner, because quite frankly, I was feelin the buzz and didn't think to! :rolleyes1 But, I know there are food pix in my past reports, since we visit Margaritaville every year at least once! Heck...here's one more of the famous nachos! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0052.jpg)

I don't know how anyone had any room for dinner since our table finished both plates of nachos (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2709.jpg) and the calamari. :confused3 We even ordered two desserts for everyone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00372.jpg) after dinner. (Our norm is to get 2 desserts and 11 spoons and 'pass' the dessert around.) Somehow Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2713.jpg) ended up with his own (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0053.jpg) dessert? (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0054.jpg) Ended up sharing with his cousin (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2714.jpg) after realizing his eyes were bigger than his stomach! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2717.jpg) :laughing: Here is a pic of the key lime pie...or, what's left (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0056.jpg) of it.

Tonite Grumpy (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00376.jpg) picked up the tab, and I remember there being a problem with a couple of the dinners. I also remember it was no big deal...not big enough to deduct 50% of the bill! All I know is our bill was under $200 for 11 people...INCLUDING the bar bill! I felt bad they deducted that much considering we were so late....but, it was in Grumpy's hands, not mine. I do know that is probably the CHEAPEST bill EVER at Margaritaville for our group and it will most likely never happen again!

That said, bill paid, off to CityWalk (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2718.jpg) we go.

CityWalk was just a nice stroll after dinner (drinks in hand of course!). Here's someone (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00390.jpg) who had a little too many drinks in hand...I was holding someone's hat and balloons and the darn hat (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00392.jpg) wouldn't stay on my head!? How did they do that? http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif Anyhow, the kids played (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00395.jpg) some of the carnie games (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00397.jpg) at CityWalk.

After games, some headed to the surf shop to shop, others played some games. We ended up at NASCAR Grille to play in the arcade upstairs, but we had to settle for the Daytona Race games (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00402.jpg) downstairs because they were hosting a pay-per-view wrestling event upstairs. I needed to use the ladies room and I almost wasn't allowed because I didn't have a ticket to their event. Give me a break! Maybe they should think about restrooms downstairs then http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-signs066.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

We didn't stay too long playing the Daytona game...maybe 3 games or so of the kids racing? After that, we (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00401.jpg) went out to CityWalk to wait (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/DSCN2720.jpg) for those who went to the surf shop and relax. It wasn't too long before they were outta money and back with us.

We slowly strolled back to the Portofino.

The kids were tired and hit the hay and I and Nana went upstairs with them. I was tired too, and just didn't feel like a drink at Thirsty Fish (which, still closes at 1:30am...what is up with that?). I think DH said they had 1 drink and they were right back upstairs in no time. We didn't remember to bring the tripod this trip, so all my night pix of the PBH are in last year's report. But, I could sit and look at it lit up at night all night long...just beautiful!

So, that ends our day today. Time for bed.http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sleep012.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

[jenseib]

Yay!!! An update. What a fun day and you do so much in a day too. I am so hungry after seeing the food pics!

[rpbert1]

:cool1::cool1::cool1: Barbs back, with another excellent installment

[pixeegrl]

WooHoo!!!

[klacey1]

Awesome update, as usual!

[tink1957]

Thanks for the great update.:thumbsup2 I'm really enjoying your report, it's getting me excited for our trip in May. Thanks also for posting the menus, now I have an idea about where to eat when we go.

[bubba's mom]

What a fun day and you do so much in a day too. I am so hungry after seeing the food pics!

Actually I never thought we did, but it does seem like it...doesn't it? :laughing:

Barbs back, with another excellent installment

You knew I would be...just took a bit longer this year :headache: 2 more days to go....

Thanks also for posting the menus, now I have an idea about where to eat when we go.

I always take pix of menus (maybe 1 or 2 exceptions). But if you look back to all my trip reports, there are usually menu pix. ;)

[Worfiedoodles]

Just what I needed to read on a cold, snowy day!

Thanks, Barb! :woohoo:

[rpbert1]

Actually I never thought we did, but it does seem like it...doesn't it? :laughing:



You knew I would be...just took a bit longer this year :headache: 2 more days to go....



I always take pix of menus (maybe 1 or 2 exceptions). But if you look back to all my trip reports, there are usually menu pix. ;)



Hi Barb, with all that snow there, maybe you will get the rest of the trippie finished :rolleyes1

[bubba's mom]

Hi Barb, with all that snow there, maybe you will get the rest of the trippie finished :rolleyes1

:lmao: Been doin nothin but shovelin! And, the boss is away...so guess who had to shovel out work? :headache: Luckily DH helped...he's the best! :love2:

Here's a sample of what we got (on top of the 12" from LAST weekend!):

This is from yesterday (we went out a total of 3 times yesterday).....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb1020106.jpg

[bubba's mom]

It was a challenge clearing out the cars. There just wasn't anywhere to put the snow anymore.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201024.jpg

[bubba's mom]

DH's car.....I promise it's in there....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201032.jpg

[bubba's mom]

See? Toldya....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201041.jpg

[bubba's mom]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201059.jpg

[bubba's mom]

Shoveled out by 10pm last nite:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201067.jpg

[bubba's mom]

Neighbor on the corner and their fence :eek:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201070.jpg

[bubba's mom]

Even had to shovel paths for the dog....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb102010106.jpg

[bubba's mom]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb102010100.jpg

[bubba's mom]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb102010105.jpg

[bubba's mom]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201099.jpg

[bubba's mom]

Max & I in our (lower) backyard...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201084.jpg

[bubba's mom]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb10201079.jpg

[bubba's mom]

Pix from today.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb111016.jpg

[bubba's mom]

The day after....all cleared out....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb111020.jpg

[bubba's mom]

If ya don't shovel out your mailbox so they can pull RIGHT UP to it without getting out of their truck, they won't deliver your mail.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb11108.jpg

[bubba's mom]

The BEST person to see when you're snowed in:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2010/Feb111021.jpg

[rpbert1]

Wow, just showed the pics to Lily, shes so jealous of all the snow, as we hardly ever get any snow where we are in ireland.

[bubba's mom]

Wow, just showed the pics to Lily, shes so jealous of all the snow, as we hardly ever get any snow where we are in ireland.

Tell her I will gladly trade places with her. Didn't sleep real well last night because back, shoulders and neck ached from all the shoveling (& I exercise to keep fit!). DH says between yesterday and today, we probably shoveled about 7 hrs or so.

Crap. That's a LOT of snow to shovel. :sad2: SHE is MORE than welcome to it! :teeth:

[pixeegrl]

It has been one crazy winter here on the East Coast! I am so ready for the heat and humidity of Florida in August. All I can say is "BRING IT ON!" LOL That's a lot of shoveling! Our dog went outside this morning to potty and as soon as I opened the back door he jumped out and disappeared. I quickly rescued him and found a spot not quite as deep under the trampoline! DH has cleared him a path now.

[klacey1]

My god! We only got about 8 and 1/2 inches this round. My cousin owns boutiques in Maryland and has had to close them so many times in the past few weeks-- the mid atlantic has just been hit awful!
Your pup looks adorable in the snow :-)

[tink1957]

:confused3What's with all the snow everywhere? I'm in Georgia & the ground is covered with snow and it's still coming down hard. I need a vacation, Hawaii anyone?

[rpbert1]

Tell her I will gladly trade places with her. Didn't sleep real well last night because back, shoulders and neck ached from all the shoveling (& I exercise to keep fit!). DH says between yesterday and today, we probably shoveled about 7 hrs or so.

Crap. That's a LOT of snow to shovel. :sad2: SHE is MORE than welcome to it! :teeth:

Lily says she would love to swap, but i would be doing all the shoveling:rotfl:

[bubba's mom]

Lily says she would love to swap, but i would be doing all the shoveling:rotfl:

So? :confused3

You chicken? :cool2:

[jenseib]

Wow thats alot of snow. I am so glad we haven't gotten that much this year...knock on wood it stays away~!

[rpbert1]

Hey Barb, hows the snow now:laughing: reckon you should give up on the shovelling :confused3 as i have just saw it on the news here in the Ireland

[bubba's mom]

We are about as shoveled as we're gonna get around here. I wanted to shovel more after work (at work) today, but by 3:30, I was too tired and blew it off...meh..gonna get more Monday night again anyway :headache:

...AND possibly next weekend.

Problem is, it's piled so high, ya can't see around corners to pull out into traffic :mad: Let's just say some 2 lane roads are now 1 lane :sad2:

[rpbert1]

I reckon a Glass of wine, put your feet up- and just do some Dissing:thumbsup2

[bubba's mom]

I reckon a Glass of wine, put your feet up- and just do some Dissing:thumbsup2

I'm trying to get pix loaded into the next day....but 'stuff' keeps gettin in the way..... Heck, it's 4:10pm & this is the first I've been on the computer all day!

[rpbert1]

looking forward to the rest of your trip report:banana::banana:,
Is your dates for July the 13th , and are you back at PBH, we are staying back at RPR as it was just to quiet at the pools last year at PBH, arriving 7th July for 10 days, and Lawerence was saying he is going back this year, but cannot remember his exact dates , but its around the same time as we are there.
C YA Soon, hope Randy and Bubba is doing good.

[bubba's mom]

looking forward to the rest of your trip report:banana::banana:,
Is your dates for July the 13th , and are you back at PBH, we are staying back at RPR as it was just to quiet at the pools last year at PBH, arriving 7th July for 10 days, and Lawerence was saying he is going back this year, but cannot remember his exact dates , but its around the same time as we are there.
C YA Soon, hope Randy and Bubba is doing good.

Yes...we arrive Tuesday afternoon (before dinner) July 13th...and we leave Sunday night July 18th to fly home. I don't think our flight is until almost 9pm...so, a bit longer in the park that day for us :woohoo:

I think Lawrence is there July 4-11th or 12th...I just miss him this year.

[bubba's mom]

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Day 14

Woke to a nice day again today....around the usual time. Since BIL had to leave by lunchtime, we decided to skip the parks this morning and just head to the pool (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2721.jpg) instead. We had our usual breakfast in our room and headed down to the pool by around 10am-ish. It wasn't too crowded (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2722.jpg) yet, but to find many chairs together near the slide end of the pool, wasn't easy. So, we settled for chairs just inside the entrance (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00404.jpg) at the shallow end of the pool. We plopped our towels and stuff and headed toward the pool. I decided to lay on the chaise lounge for a bit before getting in the pool and realized the towels we got were all wet! What the heck?! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry051.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) So, I gathered them all back up and took them back and asked for some dry towels...which, was not a problem. Still? What'd they do? Leave them out in the rain? Guess I was glad not to be far from the entrance after all http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

We did some swimming, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00418.jpg) chatting, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00416.jpg) relaxing (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00439.jpg) in the water and of course...sliding!! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00447.jpg) Bubba even got a little artistic. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00441.jpg) It was a beautiful day (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2730.jpg) and the water (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00435.jpg) was the perfect temperature. Here are some various pool pictures: Bubba, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00417.jpg) Bubba 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00420.jpg) our niece, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00423.jpg) our nephew (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00425.jpg) and our other niece. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00426.jpg) Why is it no matter how many times you tell your kid to NOT do this, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00428.jpg) they do anyway? http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry032.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Here's niece sliding, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00448.jpg) our other niece (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00449.jpg) sliding, our SIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00450.jpg) slidin', my DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00451.jpg) striking his pose, our nephew, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00452.jpg) and I think this is my BIL (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00453.jpg)?

We hung out in the pool (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00454.jpg) for about an hour and a half before the kids wanted some lunch. So, we grabbed a couple of tables (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2728.jpg) outside the entrance to the pool at Splendido Pizza (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2731.jpg) and ordered some lunch. Wings (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2724.jpg) for appetizers and pizza (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2725.jpg) for the kids. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2729.jpg) By the way, the pizza was pretty good. Nothing spectacular, but pretty good. Would order it again. DH & BIL split a panni sandwich (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2723.jpg)...he said it was awesome. The food there was very good!!

We were there about an hour and BIL decided they were past their time to leave. So, we packed up and headed back upstairs to help them gather their things to checkout.

We said our goodbyes http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-signs020.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) and saw them off. After they left, I took the opportunity (while still in the room) to call down to Mama Della's and get a reservation for dinner. To my surprise, there was no problem getting the 5:00 time we wanted. We took it and plotted our next move.

We decided to leave our swim/wet duds on (in case of rain) and head to IOA....sans camera. ;) We spent a couple hours this afternoon at IOA doing what we always do. To be honest, this stinking trip report has taken me so long to do, I can't remember what we did http://bestsmileys.com/doh/1.gif Note to self: take better notes this year ;)

I do remember we hopped in line for Hulk...and it seemed to be a long express line. http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif I don't know if it was just that crowded or they weren't checking passes....but the wait seemed awful long. SO long, in fact, that by the time we actually loaded on to the ride and got going, it was RAINING!!! Now...not pouring rain, but enough rain to give us our first experience on a rollercoaster in the rain! OUCHIES!!! I covered my face with my hands because it was a lot of 'stingin' rain'. A great coaster but not so much fun in the rain. And, as I pointed out to the boys, it was a good thing we stayed in our swimsuits...I just knew it was going to rain on us! http://bestsmileys.com/weather/4.gif Right again :rolleyes2

Since it was raining and getting close to our dinnertime, we started to walk back to the hotel. We were going to use our LF Platinum food & beverage credit at Mama Della's tonight for dinner. So, back to shower and get ready for dinner we went!

By the time we were ready for dinner, the light rain had stopped and we arrived in plenty of time for our reservation. Matter of fact when we arrived, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2752.jpg) the place was really empty (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2753.jpg) to my surprise! Maybe because it was early? I don't know, but there were only 2 other tables sitting. We were seated right away and given a menu. 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2733.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2735.jpg) 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2738.jpg) and 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2740.jpg) And, there is a children's menu (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2742.jpg)...of course. 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2743.jpg) and 2. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2745.jpg)

The entertainment (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2756.jpg) was nice, but not necessary. I'm more of a "leave me alone" type at dinner. I knew they'd be there, thought we'd give it a try anyway. The food was pretty good...nothing exciting, but the portions were huge...to match their price. :scared: We got some nice (weird/fancy) breadsticks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2751.jpg) and oil and bread. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0057.jpg) Bubba had wanted mozzarella sticks for an appetizer, but they didn't have 'mozzarella', they had some other cheese that I didn't know if he'd like or not. So, we told the server to nevermind. When she brought our breadsticks and such, she did bring mozzarella sticks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0058.jpg) that she had gotten from 'next door'? ...From Sal's I'm guessing? I don't know remember where she said, but for her to go out of her way was really nice. I'm guessing if they were busy, that may have not happened...but, it was nice it did. We also got a [/url]bowl of [url=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0061.jpg]salad (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0061.jpg) for the table....which, was okay (I'm kinda picky) :rolleyes1

Bubba ordered his usual, favorite Italian dish...ravioli, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0062.jpg) while DH had the Cioppino di Pesci, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0063.jpg) while I had the Vitello de Parmigiana (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0065.jpg)...which, let me tell you, was enough for 3 people to eat!! :eek: I remember DH "helped" and tried some. All very good...again, expensive, but very good. Worth the price, but not a return trip for us. We didn't order dessert..we were too full. So, what to do next? Walk all those calories off at CityWalk! So...that's where we all (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2748.jpg) headed!

BUT, I thought maybe we could get in a couple rides at the Studios before it closed...so, we detoured there first. :idea: I can't remember if we actually did any rides, but I did take this picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00458.jpg) in front of Shrek. Then we realized the summer 360 show (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00457.jpg) on the lagoon was about to start. We all saw it the first year Universal had it, and I saw it in 2008 again, so we all decided to stop and watch. We were in no hurry and no plans to go anywhere...so, why not? :3dglasses After the show, we headed out to City Walk...and it was there I took a pic of HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00477.jpg) at night....cool.....

Our last night at the Walk.... It's really pretty lit up at night. I think I like it better at night. Tonite, we decided to take the "high" road for a different view of things. It's really not very busy on the upper level...less people, and quieter, made for a nice after-dinner stroll. This is Latin Quarter, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2762.jpg) the groove, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2763.jpg) a pic of Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2764.jpg) in front of a closed(?) bar, a really poor shot of Nathan's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2765.jpg) hotdogs and karaoke. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2766.jpg) Here's looking down past Pat O'Briens toward Bubba Gumps (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00471.jpg) and Big Kahuna pizza. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00476.jpg)

A picture of the band from above & behind, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2767.jpg) and I was curious as to why there was a Twister game there? (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2768.jpg) Here is the BK Whopper Bar (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2771.jpg) at night, along with Moe's & Panda Express (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2772.jpg) food court.

I can't remember why, but we headed to the center of CityWalk toward this place, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2776.jpg) so Bubba could order (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2775.jpg) himself.....wait for it..... a churro. His very first (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2774.jpg) one. He likes cinnamon and he REALLY liked it.......a good $2.99 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2778.jpg) (-APH discount) spent. :teeth:

While he was munching on that, I decided to go to the Margaritaville (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00459.jpg) store. I took some cute pix, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00468.jpg) and got a recipe from one of their cookbooks for my girl Alison. Here are some various pix from the Margaritaville store: Gotta love (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0072.jpg) those parrots! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0071.jpg) Pic 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0073.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0074.jpg) 3, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0075.jpg) 4, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0076.jpg) 5, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0077.jpg) 6, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0079.jpg) 7, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0080.jpg) 8 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0081.jpg) and because there's always one. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0078.jpg) And...Bubba...waiting patiently... (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/Vacation%202009%20videocamera/DSC00460.jpg)

By now it was well after 10pm, and we were all getting tired. We started our stroll through City Walk back toward the hotel. It was such a nice evening, not to mention our last for a year, that we decided to walk and not even try for the boat.

Back at the hotel, we were walking toward the West Wing entrance and I hear someone shout my name. Huh? http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif You will NEVER guess who I ran into? :rolleyes1 Okay...so, yeah, if you've been following along you might guess...but, it was Robert (rpbert1)! .....and his lovely wife Lily and beautiful daughter Charlotte. They were there looking for us! We hadn't met up the entire time we were there (and remember, I even stopped by the RPR to see if they were in) and our very last night JUST BEFORE turning in, we happen upon each other. What dumb luck!! Even with exchanging emails and leaving messages..... Oh well...How can ya get any luckier? So, we sat and chatted (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2781.jpg) for quite awhile at the Thirsty Fish. It was truly a beautiful night with perfect weather to sit outside and visit. http://bestsmileys.com/talking/9.gif

It wasn't long before Bubba was tired and he went up to our room...with DH not too far behind. It was really great to sit and talk with Robert and his girls...it's interesting to compare countries. I'm sure we'll meet up again this year while we are all there...hopefully this year, a bit better coordinated tho :thumbsup2

After a while, it was time to turn in. I know it was getting late, I think we were chatting over an hour! I think it was around midnight, or just after, before I laid my head on that pillowhttp://bestsmileys.com/sleeping/14.gif ....for the last time...or at least until July 13, 2010. :thumbsup2

Tomorrow is our last day ....and we fly home. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sad009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

[klacey1]

Awww last night reports are always bittersweet!

[rpbert1]

Another great report Barb [and we even get a mention :worship::worship:] love the pics and especially the food from Mamas looks delicious.hopefully no trips to the medi center this year, as it caused a bit of a roblem with our plans, and look forward to seeing you guys again. Hope you get the same rooms this year as they where in a great location.

[keishashadow]

thanx barb:thumbsup2always a joy to read ur trippies

i didn't know u could make a ressie @ Margaritaville on a weekend? duh did u call the restuarant directly (if so, how many days prior) or did u have concierge hook u up?

of particular interest to me was Mama Dellas, u didn't happen to see the steak walk past did u?;) my guys typically only want a 'plain' steak. The reason we've yet to eat @ Lombards. I was hoping to use our credit @ MD's, maybe on the friday night buffet if they still offer:confused3 Even my picky eaters can find something on a buffet

i've never eaten a churro either, may have to check it out next time since bubba gives it the nod:)

[bubba's mom]

Janet....I will check on the steak at MD for you when we go in July ;)

As for the res @ CW, let's just say I "have people" and leave it at that! :rotfl:

[bubba's mom]

Monday, July 13, 2009

Day 15

Well, today is check-out and fly home day.http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sad009.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Never a happy day...nor a get up and rush out the door day. We like to linger in bed, and in our room, as long as we possibly can. We checked over our bill while eating the last of our breakfast (& packing) and realized we had a minibar charge. This was impossible, so when we were packed and ready to check-out, when we left our bags at luggage service, I stopped by the desk and have that charge removed.

Around 10am we checked-out at the front desk. Normally we would do this on our television, but since we had to have our luggage held for the day anyway, going to the front desk was the next stop. When I told the girl that the minibar charge was incorrect and needed to be credited she seemed a bit reluctant at first...that is, until I told her at check-in, I did NOT take the minibar key. So, explain to me how we were going to get anything out of the minibar without a key? http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-rolleyes010.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) She took the charge off and said they would check into it and if there was anything missing they would charge that credit card. Whatever...I KNOW there isn't anything missing.... http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry051.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)


We headed to the parks via our shortcut (through HRH parking lot (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2782.jpg)) and planned our first move. DD at IOA was the winner . The absolute furthest attraction from where we were, but our last day...oh yeah...we HAD to ride DD (since we missed it the other day cuz of the rain!). For some unknown reason, I snapped a pic of NBA City (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2783.jpg) at CityWalk on our way by. I don't know why I did, but I did. I know I already have pix of it because we have eaten there.

We arrive at DD and walk that really looong walk around the Harry Potter construction. Using the EP, we chose Ice first and noticed the front row wait was not long at all...so, we hopped over into the front row line. :thumbsup2 We didn't wait too long...maybe a few cars went before we did? But, of the two, the front on Ice is much more worth the wait than on Fire.

Speaking of, after our front row spin on Ice, we hopped right back in line to ride Fire. We noticed the front row line was much longer for Fire, so we decided to get in line in the second row...That wait wasn't too bad either. Not the same as the front, but still a good ride. I like Fire better, but I like the front of Ice better...weird huh?


When we were finished on DD, we headed in the direction of Suess Landing. We took a spin on Cat in the Hat. Now, in my notes, I have noted it was working this time. Must have been earlier in the day (on our way past to DD) we took a ride and it broke down .....or it was another day? I can't remember and won't, so I'm not even gonna try. But, it broke down when we were on it before...at least 2 or 3 times we stopped. We stopped, but the story kept going...along with the animatronics. I'll say this...it did give us plenty of time to get a good look around. I remember we were stopped right in front of the kitchen (luckily facing it..not spun away from it) and we took a good look. Needs a fresh paint job in there http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Anyhow...they got us around and let us off and this time we tried, we rode successfully with no problems.

Now, since we are in Suess Landing, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2784.jpg) I always vote to ride High in the Sky, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2788.jpg) Suess Trolley Train Ride. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2787.jpg) I like it the most, but the guys humor me and go along. Bubba did ask if we could ride the track that goes through (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2790.jpg) Circus McGurkus. No problem...I can do that (nevermind that we always ride it twice and ride the opposite track we just rode :teeth: ) So, I snapped a couple pix from inside the restaurant. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2789.jpg) I also snapped a bunch of pictures from the ride itself. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2798.jpg) I love the view (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2793.jpg) from the ride, but it just goes by so darn fast, I figure I'll take pictures and get a better look later! This is a picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2786.jpg) at the loading area. You can see HRRR (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2797.jpg) at the Studios from atop. Two shots of the Hulk (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2795.jpg) from the ride. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2796.jpg) Of course you need a pic of green eggs 'n ham! (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2799.jpg)


After the ride, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2801.jpg) they detour you out through the lovely candy/gift (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2800.jpg) shop. I bought a pair of Cat in the Hat pajama pants for my niece and some jumbo size rice krispy treats for my Mom (part of the "thanks for watching the dog for two weeks while we were on vacation" gift). I didn't get a picture of the rice krispy treats, but they are HUGE and I needed two bags for 3 of them. I plan to get some for my Mom again this year, so I will try to remember to take a picture of it. Oh...and Bubba wanted a cookie, so we got him one of the HUGE cookies...ya know...saucer size!http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-shocked006.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Again, no picture, but I will try to remember to do so this year. (hey..gimmie a break...I take plenty of pix for youse guys ;) )

Our next stop (while toward the front of the park) was Spiderman and Hulk. Grabbed a locker and put our treasures (and valuables) inside and rode each of them a couple times. Bittersweet because we know we are almost finished in this park until next summer's vacation. We don't do much in IOA the last day because we don't get wet. Last thing I need is to be wet with no dry clothes to change into and hop on a plane to fly home! http://bestsmileys.com/doh/1.gif

After Hulk & Spidey...we (reluctantly) headed toward the Studios. We just HAD to do at LEAST MIB one more time before we left! (why are all the cool rides in the furthest back part of the parks?) http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif

While at CW, we decided to cut down the path for BMG (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2807.jpg) and take some pix of the new HRRR on the way into the Studios. Honestly, after 4 straight summer vacations to the parks, I don't really want to take pictures of the same thing each trip. So, with the new coaster there, I was looking for some pictures of it from an angle OTHER THAN the one from inside the Studios. We walked the pathway (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2806.jpg) toward the BMG theater (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2809.jpg) and I snapped some pix of HRRR on the way to the Studios. HRRR 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2802.jpg) HRRR 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2803.jpg) HRRR 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2804.jpg) and HRRR 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2805.jpg) Some queue (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2811.jpg) shots from HRRR: (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2813.jpg) 1, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2814.jpg) 2, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2815.jpg) 3 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2816.jpg) and 4. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2817.jpg)

I loved this look (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2810.jpg) of HRRR comin' outta a BM's head! http://bestsmileys.com/lol/6.gif HRRR pic. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2808.jpg)

After we entered the Studios, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2812.jpg) we noticed the lines for Jimmy Neutron (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2818.jpg) and Shrek (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2820.jpg) weren't bad, so we did them (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2819.jpg) while we were there... and we had the time! :thumbsup2

After once on each, (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2821.jpg) we headed back (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2822.jpg) to MIB. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCN2823.jpg) I know we usually ride this a few times while we are there, and today would be MY day. Today (on one of our rides), I would score my highest EVER on MIB. 586,525. I know some that do much better, but I only ride about a dozen times a year and I'm usually in the 200-400,000 range for my average best. So...this was http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-happy057.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) for me...and, I beat DH (who usually beats me)...which, sweetened my win. :teeth:

So, celebrating my new high score, we check out our picture in the lobby area and head toward the exit to ride again. Uh....it's raining. I mean raining hard. And, I obeyed my own rule and brought rain ponchos. But they were in my bag. In the locker. Out in the rain and around the corner. Are you friggin' kidding me?!? http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-angry016.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) So...we decided it has to be a passing shower and decided to putz around in the store and wait it out for awhile. After about 15 minutes or so, the rain did let up almost 100% and we went to the locker to retrieve our bag and head to Simpson's. Our time was running out. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-scared002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

I believe we only did the Simpson's once because it takes a while to do this ride. Even with the EP, it just takes a long time to get through the preshows and onto the actual ride. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-char148.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

After our spin on the Simpson's, we noticed it was time to head out to get something to eat before the taxi picked us up at the hotel. We headed out and got a seat right away at NASCAR Grille. It was 4pm and our taxi was coming for us at 5:30.

Now, I'm guessing because it was so early was the reason we were seated right away? Our server was prompt and very nice. I didn't take any menu pictures this time, (I don't think I HAD the menu long enough!), but I did take a couple pictures of pictures that were on the wall around our booth. Tony Stewart (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0089.jpg) & Jimmy Johnson. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0090.jpg) Here's Bubba (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0085.jpg) doin his 'kid thing' on his menu. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0088.jpg) I believe Bubba & DH (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0091.jpg) had cheeseburgers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0092.jpg) and I had a grilled chicken BLT. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0093.jpg) I like the food here and think the selection and price is pretty good for what it is. The server was prompt with the bill and we paid our tab and left....in the direction of the Portofino.

Since the restaurant wasn't busy (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/barbpics/2009%20Vacation/vacation%202009/DSCI0086.jpg) and our server was so good, we had time to stop by TCBY for some frozen yogurt for dessert. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink036.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We all got a little something and decided since we had plenty of time, and 'ice cream' to eat on the walk back, we decided to try the Garden route back to the hotel. Ya know...the way they want you to go..not the shortcut through the Hard Rock Hotel's parking lot!! I will say...it was a very nice, looong walk. I'm glad I stick with the shortcut! :goodvibes

Even though it's a long walk that way, probably about 15 minutes or so, we were back in plenty of time to use the restrooms at the hotel. Again, I know I have pix in another trip report since we've stayed at the PBH before.

We gathered our luggage at about 5:15 and waited for our taxi to pick us up. I had asked for it for 5:30, but one appeared at 5:20. We figured it was for us and hopped in. http://bestsmileys.com/cars/12.gif

While on our way to the airport, my phone rang and it was Mears wondering where we were. They wanted to know if we were at the hotel? I told them I was IN one of their taxis....wasn't that the one they sent? http://bestsmileys.com/clueless/5.gif I have no idea what they did, but out of the 2 that showed up, we got in 1 and left. A little early, but that's okay...better early than running late!

We arrived at the airport in plenty of time to check our luggage and print our boarding passes. I had checked us in online on my laptop from our room the night before... after dinner at Mama Della's (forgot to mention that). We were checked in on Southwest Airlines with "A" boarding passes and a pretty good boarding number (although, I can't remember what that was?). Even though the TSA security line at MCO can be a scary, long-looking line, it didn't take long to get through it and to our gate. Matter of fact, we were at our gate SO early, the people on the flight out of that gate ahead of us, were still there waiting to leave! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) We just found seats somewhere and when those people boarded, we went and scored the 'business seats' in the waiting area...you know the ones.... the bigger, black, comfy seats w/ plugs and USB ports to plug into? Oh yeah...that's whatcha get for being early baby! :woohoo:

I remember we boarded and took off on time...unlike the flight down, the flight home was uneventful. Matter of fact, it always is. Bubba & I watched a movie on my laptop (can't remember what movie tho?) and DH watched his movie on his Zune.

Pulled into PHL on time and it didn't take long for our bags to arrive (which, in PHL is unusual). We hopped on our shuttlebus back to our hotel, loaded our luggage into our car, prayed the car would start (after sitting in the summer heat for 2 weeks, it's always a pot-shot), and it did. Headed home with no problems and fell into bed sometime in the wee early AM hours of the next day.http://bestsmileys.com/sleeping/11.gif

The next day would consist of going to pick up the mail, the plants, going to the grocery store and going to get the dog. And, boy was he HAPPY to see us!


So.... that finally concludes our 2009 summer vacation trip report. Hopefully 2010's doesn't take nearly as long! I will have to take better notes and less pictures! Well, maybe less of the same ole stuff at Universal, but I'm sure I'll have a boatload of pictures from the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter-land.

Stay tuned...next vacation starts with flying to Tampa on Friday, July 2nd to catch our 5 night western cruise on Carnival leaving on July 3rd. After the cruise, we continue on to FIL's for an extended weekend and wind up with 5 nights at Universal. After all the freakin' snow dumped on us this winter, we are SO gonna deserve (and enjoy) THIS vacation!! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-cool11.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

Stay tuned......

[rpbert1]

Excellent report , as always Barb, and makes great reading.
Can i ask, where on the Gulf coast does your Cruise leave from.

[tink1957]

:thumbsup2Great trip report, I love all the details & pics. I can't wait for your next one & don't change a thing about your trip reporting, it's awesome.:flower3:

[bubba's mom]

Can i ask, where on the Gulf coast does your Cruise leave from.

We are leaving from Tampa....that's why we are flying into Tampa and not Orlando.

[rpbert1]

Thanks Barb, maybe something to consider for next year. Lilys still not sure about a cruise.

[jenseib]

Awesome TR! I love your style. I can't wait to read this coming up one as well. I am interested to hear about your cruise too. I bet it will be fun, and interesting to see if you like it better than the Disney one.

[RVGal]

I'm all caught up just in time for you to finish. :laughing:

Great trip report as always! I hope the weather cooperates with your trip this year. :cool1:

PS - I love the pics of you in the balloon hat. I won't tell you what I thought when I saw the first shot. :rolleyes1

[Worfiedoodles]

As usual, an awesome TR and a ton of fun!

Thanks, Barb!

Maria :upsidedow

[bubba's mom]

Thanks Barb, maybe something to consider for next year. Lilys still not sure about a cruise.


Like I told her last summer....start with a 3 or 4 nighter just to check it out. The caribbean is very calm and I'm sure she wouldn't even notice she's on the water. :thumbsup2 (Bubba didn't) Differnet lines leave from different ports too. In Fl, there's Tampa, Port Canaveral, Ft Lauderdale, Miami, etc... Ships leave from everywhere anymore.

Awesome TR! I love your style. I can't wait to read this coming up one as well. I am interested to hear about your cruise too. I bet it will be fun, and interesting to see if you like it better than the Disney one.

Thanks....where's your report from your cruise? You were supposed to take a Disney cruise...remember?


PS - I love the pics of you in the balloon hat. I won't tell you what I thought when I saw the first shot. :rolleyes1

Don't worry...I know you, and I know what you were thinking! :eek:

As usual, an awesome TR and a ton of fun!
Thanks, Barb!
Maria :upsidedow

you bet! :thumbsup2

[RVGal]

Don't worry...I know you, and I know what you were thinking! :eek:



:rotfl:

[jenseib]

We were! last March, and I kept bugging DH to book it and then in Jan. he said, he'd rather go to WDW. He has this crazy thinking that we might fall off the ship, so all of a sudden he's against cruising. Claire and I keep bugging him still though. I think there is going to be a trip to no where this year though.
In fact today we be the normal day we usually leave for WDW each year. I am so bummed to be not gettting ready right now for a plane trip. :headache:

[rpbert1]

[QUOTE=bubba's mom;35713125]
Like I told her last summer....start with a 3 or 4 nighter just to check it out. The caribbean is very calm and I'm sure she wouldn't even notice she's on the water. :thumbsup2 (Bubba didn't) Differnet lines leave from different ports too. In Fl, there's Tampa, Port Canaveral, Ft Lauderdale, Miami, etc... Ships leave from everywhere anymore.
-
Barb, she asked everybody she knows who has been on a cruise, and they said the same as you. She was on a boat once and was extremely sick, the sea was rough, and this put her off boats. Her brother said she should try a short one like you said as well, but as i have everything booked this year now, so it will have to be next year, if we can talk her into it. Looked at ones from Tampa, and they seem to bo ok, so you never know.

[bubba's mom]

We were! last March, and I kept bugging DH to book it and then in Jan. he said, he'd rather go to WDW. He has this crazy thinking that we might fall off the ship, so all of a sudden he's against cruising. Claire and I keep bugging him still though. I think there is going to be a trip to no where this year though.
In fact today we be the normal day we usually leave for WDW each year. I am so bummed to be not gettting ready right now for a plane trip. :headache:

THOUSANDS of people cruise every year! :headache: Your DH needs to see pix of people on the ship. There is no way to fall off without climbing up on the railing...it is geared toward KIDS afterall. Find him pix of people on the deck in front of the railings to prove how high they are. (They even have plexiglass over them to prevent 'things' from falling over too.) You may need pix to convince him. Good luck.

Sorry to hear no trip this year.... I don't know if I could make it w/o a vacation at least once a year! :eek:

[bubba's mom]

Like I told her last summer....start with a 3 or 4 nighter just to check it out. The caribbean is very calm and I'm sure she wouldn't even notice she's on the water. :thumbsup2 (Bubba didn't) Different lines leave from different ports too. In Fl, there's Tampa, Port Canaveral, Ft Lauderdale, Miami, etc... Ships leave from everywhere anymore.
-
Barb, she asked everybody she knows who has been on a cruise, and they said the same as you. She was on a boat once and was extremely sick, the sea was rough, and this put her off boats. Her brother said she should try a short one like you said as well, but as i have everything booked this year now, so it will have to be next year, if we can talk her into it. Looked at ones from Tampa, and they seem to bo ok, so you never know.

So, hasn't she realized that "everybody" knows what they're talking about? :teeth:

The caribbean sea is SO much calmer. And, if she's afraid of still getting sick, they have anti-nausea meds she can take. LOTS of people get the seasickness, but won't let that little thing stop them from having a great time!!

I'm sure you could squeeze in a quick 3 or 4 nite one departing SOMEWHERE out of Fla... it just depends where you want to go.

Tell her to mention it to her doctor next time she sees him...get his opinion/recommendation about the anti-nausea stuff. :thumbsup2

(I really wish she would give it a try....I think she'd have a fabulous time! ...and Lily, if you're reading this...c'mon girl...ya KNOW you WANT to give it another go :thumbsup2 )

[rpbert1]

Thanks Barb, she is due an appointment at the hospital with her consultant, so told her to ask him about them.
If i had not booked St Petes would have cancelled and looked for a cruise this year, but i am tied to the rate i booked.
But will look for next year

[bubba's mom]

I have been finding that the sooner you are ABLE to book the cruise, the better the rate. The rate just keeps going up....until the last couple of months prior...then, they start to drop just to fill the ship.

Never hurts to start looking for that cruise you want to take ;)

[rpbert1]

Will not know what plans are for next year till August/September this year.
As you know we are heading to California, and are hoping our cousins will visit us next summer, so will not know for certain till we are there ,and find dates that suits them, thats if they decide to come here. They have been all around Ireland, and apparently like to visit different countries, so wether they want to visit here again i am not sure, so will find out in the summer and can then decide what we are doing next year. But will let you know after our vacation this year

[bubba's mom]

:idea: Come to the states to visit the cousins and go on cruise WITH THEM!!! :teeth:

I've known since last year we are supposed to cruise next year ('11). :laughing: But not a commercial ship...actually rent a sailboat in the caribbean and sail. :eek:

should be fun?

[rpbert1]

Now thats an idea for next year Barb.

WOW, next year sounds like a great vacation, cannot wait to read that report and pics Barb. Are you planning the parks as well after your cruising around the Carribbean.

[bubba's mom]

Are you planning the parks as well after your cruising around the Carribbean.

I don't know that yet. Not sure exactly how much the sailing trip is gonna cost us (will find out from Captn BIL on this year's vacay). I would love to bring my niece to Universal next summer for her high school graduation gift. (she's a Potter-head :laughing: ) I don't know if we are taking 2 trips to FL next summer, or trying the sailing w/ the parks... :confused3 TBD i suppose :goodvibes

[rpbert1]

Your vacation next year sounds like it will be great, and something to really look forward to, even if you do not get to the parks.

[jenseib]

Just checking to see if yuou went on your yearly trip yet and if you got a new TR started!

[bubba's mom]

Just checking to see if yuou went on your yearly trip yet and if you got a new TR started!

:laughing: yes we went.

we are home.

my laptop took a you-know-what.:mad:

ordered a new one.

be here this week. hope to start after it's up & runnin. (this sharing DH's desktop is barely workin for me)

:wave2:

[jenseib]

YAY!!! I love reading your TR's!

[bubba's mom]

Summer 2010 trip report is started....link in sig.

[jenseib]

Summer 2010 trip report is started....link in sig.

Wow! I was just thinking of you today too!

[bubba's mom]

Wow! I was just thinking of you today too!

:eek:

[bubba's mom]

First day of Universal from last year posted (new Harry Potter) after the cruise.

[macraven]

:yay: