What's the Sitch? The Great Disney D-Tour! (12/19 Lego Tribute) [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

thecapells

09-17-2009, 10:11 PM

Hello everyone!
I'm back.
I just finished our November 2008 Trip Report and we're currently preparing to head back to the World in November 2009.
But before that, I wanted to add our Spring Break 2009 Trip Report!

For those of you just joining us, meet the Capells:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202008/DisneyDayNine/Disney20081670a.jpg

There's me - the anal planner armed with a multi-colored Excel spreadsheet telling us where we'll be every minute of the trip.
Next up is Mom who is charge of the outfit coordination.
DS7 is just like his Dad and really into Pooh Bear, Buzz Lightyear, and Peter Pan.
DD4 just is all about the princesses - Ariel is her favorite.
And little X (DS2) is along for the ride soaking up everything he can and trying to keep up with the older kids.

We just finished a 9-day trip in November for DD's 4th Birthday.
And before that, we went in 2006 for DS' 4th Birthday.
So precedent dictates that we'll return in 2011 for X's 4th Birthday.

However, I had a conference scheduled for May in Orlando.
And we thought about making that into another Disney trip.
But we figured that it was too soon to pull the kids out of school again.
And they were already starting to feel a bit of Disney overload.

Then Disney announced some new attractions like the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure.
And it got tempting.
And the kids starting looking forward to 2011.

Spring Break neared and we decided it was time to visit the great-grandparents in West Palm Beach.
To save money we decided to drive.
And then it happened.

We knew it would be a very long week and we'd need to relax afterwards.
So Mom suggested a side trip off Route 95 on the way home.
Yup - a quick jaunt to Walt Disney World on the way home.
How could I refuse?
So we quickly made plans to arrive the afternoon of Friday, April 10th.
We'd spend all day Saturday at EPCOT and then head home after breakfast on Sunday, April 11th.
Kids would go back to school on Monday and I'd head back to work.

It'd be a nice vacation after a long week.
We'd get to experience some new restaurants, the Flower & Garden Festival,
and the Kim Possible attraction.
The plan was in motion but the kids weren't told.
This time it was going to be a surprise!
So, sit back, relax, and get ready for another insanely detailed adventure with the Capells!
This time there's no staples or emergency rooms, but lots of magic and fun.
We hope you'll stay for the ride!

BTDTGB

09-17-2009, 11:17 PM

Well let me be the first to join the new report. The last one was great.

shannn

09-17-2009, 11:18 PM

I'm here~ :cool1:

mickeystoontown

09-17-2009, 11:22 PM

Oh what a cute family you are! I look forward to reading all about your Disney adventures.

Lisa

figment41

09-17-2009, 11:24 PM

I just finished your last report and can't wait for your next:wizard:

dawnbu40

09-18-2009, 07:11 AM

Waiting for more...popcorn::...

thecapells

09-18-2009, 08:25 AM

Wow - I'm glad to see so many people on board already!
I hope to get the first couple of segments posted this weekend.
And don't worry, while it was a short trip, we have TONS of pictures and lots of stories (of course)!

HG_MOM

09-18-2009, 09:29 AM

Lurked through your last report...but I am onboard for this one!!
You are a great storyteller!! Cant wait to hear about this trip!

thecapells

09-18-2009, 09:59 AM

Lurked through your last report...but I am onboard for this one!!
You are a great storyteller!! Cant wait to hear about this trip!

Welcome aboard!
Glad you posted instead of just lurking - it's more fun when you get involved!
And thanks for the compliments.
Hopefully I can keep up the good stories for everyone!

DisneyMom5

09-18-2009, 10:36 AM

I'm here! :cool1:

eecteacher82

09-18-2009, 10:49 AM

I hopped right over to this TR when I finished the other one! Looking forward to more fun! I can only hope that my TR will be as fun as yours!!! We leave in 1 week, and I am almost done w/ out PTR! Keep up the awesomeness!!!

scoot241

09-18-2009, 11:30 AM

Joining up. Sounds like fun!

3girls4me05

09-18-2009, 12:44 PM

Yeah! I 'm back at Disney (well at least in my imagination) with the Capell Family. Can't wait to hear more.

dtr_angel

09-18-2009, 05:59 PM

yay I loved you Nov 2008 trip report, can't wait to read more!!

WrightFamily06

09-18-2009, 06:10 PM

I'm here :cool1: Just finished up reading your last report , did some lurking over there and posting over there and loved the details :) So I'm sub to this one and can't wait to hear all the details :)

disneyhockeymad

09-18-2009, 06:59 PM

I loved your last report so I'm definately in for this one :) can't wait!

thecapells

09-18-2009, 10:32 PM

I'm here! :cool1:

Welcome!

I hopped right over to this TR when I finished the other one! Looking forward to more fun! I can only hope that my TR will be as fun as yours!!! We leave in 1 week, and I am almost done w/ out PTR! Keep up the awesomeness!!!

Just checked out your PTR so I can follow you as well!

Joining up. Sounds like fun!

Howdy! Glad you could join us!

Yeah! I 'm back at Disney (well at least in my imagination) with the Capell Family. Can't wait to hear more.

We wish we were there too - luckily we're heading back in November - it's a looong story (and I still have this one to tell first!)

yay I loved you Nov 2008 trip report, can't wait to read more!!

Glad you followed us over here!

I'm here :cool1: Just finished up reading your last report , did some lurking over there and posting over there and loved the details :) So I'm sub to this one and can't wait to hear all the details :)

Sounds great!

All7OfUs

09-19-2009, 12:48 AM

luckylady

09-19-2009, 12:03 PM

I'm here. Getting ready to make some popcorn and sit bake while you write this report.

castmemberb4

09-20-2009, 02:40 PM

I'm here ! :cool1:
Amazed at your ability to remember details on multiple trips.

thecapells

09-20-2009, 10:54 PM

If I hadn't been extremely ill with the flu yesterday, I'd have been here first...

So, you didn't think you'd get rid of me that easily did you?!

HA! Here and can't wait to see all of your great pictures and wonderful narratives.

Hope you're feeling better and welcome back!

I'm here. Getting ready to make some popcorn and sit bake while you write this report.

I just finished uploading the pics and will start the text ASAP!

I'm here ! :cool1:
Amazed at your ability to remember details on multiple trips.

The pictures help alot - it's much easier to remember when you look at a reference point like that.
So I guess it helps that we went picture crazy! :thumbsup2

thecapells

09-20-2009, 11:08 PM

So we pile into the car and head North from West Palm Beach.
It was a long week of visiting and taking care of Mom's grandparents.
The kids were busting, and Mom and I were exhausted.
About 4 hours or so later, we start getting close.
The exhaustion has turned into anticipation.
The kids are sleeping and still have no clue. :rolleyes1

Finally, we see it.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-04a.jpg

The kids are just getting up and still not quite awake.
"Hey kids - where are we?"

They look around confused.
DS: "Dad, that's not funny. Ha, ha - I get it. We're passing Disney World."

Then it hit Mom and me.
They just didn't get it.
They didn't realize that this magical archway is the ENTRANCE to Walt Disney World.
They figured it was just another sign on the road like this one:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-06.jpg

Mom and I tried to explain that Disney is actually out of our way and we don't usually pass it.
They still didn't make the connection.
Finally, we starting passing resorts - All Star Music, All Star Sports, and then:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-09a.jpg

We pulled into the parking lot.
DS: "Great, we're gonna stay in a Disney hotel today? That's not fair."
Dad: "But what if we go to the parks tomorrow?"

And then it finally sunk in.
We explained that the gates are the entance and that we're actually in Walt Disney World right now.
And when you see those gates, you're not passing Disney, you're there.
We also laid our plans to them - today, we're relaxing and heading to Downtown Disney and tomorrow we're playing in EPCOT all day!
The kids were ecstatic.
Our D-tour (D for Disney) had begun!
And the kids finally understood how Fantasmical this "D-tour" was going to be!
Come join us in our new adventure!

scoot241

09-20-2009, 11:14 PM

Wow... really had to spell it out for them, huh? :)

Sounds like the kids got a huge surprise! What a start to the trip!

thecapells

09-20-2009, 11:26 PM

Wow... really had to spell it out for them, huh? :)

Sounds like the kids got a huge surprise! What a start to the trip!

Yeah, they thought we were teasing them.
I bet they'll never make that mistake again!! ;)

dtr_angel

09-21-2009, 12:34 AM

wow that's awesome that they were so surprised - must've been a really cool feeling!!

kde175

09-21-2009, 09:24 AM

I'm in, too. Trying to fill my time before we leave. The next 10 days are going to be the longest in history!

jmskinner

09-22-2009, 11:56 AM

Ok, I'm ready for another of your TR's! Too cute about the kids not understanding they were really getting to go to WDW.

mickeystoontown

09-22-2009, 03:25 PM

Poor babies....they thought you were playing a cruel joke on them and staying in a Disney resort without actually going to Walt Disney World. I bet they almost pee'd their pants when they realized they were in Disney World for a real vacation.

All7OfUs

09-23-2009, 01:29 AM

That is so totally awesome that you could pull this off- until the VERY LAST MINUTE!!! Amazing!!

I so wish I could have seen the looks on their sweet faces as it really sunk in!

Very nice start!

thecapells

09-23-2009, 11:07 PM

wow that's awesome that they were so surprised - must've been a really cool feeling!!

Yeah, it was awesome.
And Mom and I started laughing when we realized that they just didn't get it.

I'm in, too. Trying to fill my time before we leave. The next 10 days are going to be the longest in history!

I hope you have fun back at the World!
Hopefully I can get a couple of segments in before you head out!

Ok, I'm ready for another of your TR's! Too cute about the kids not understanding they were really getting to go to WDW.

Yeah, it was funny.
They'll never make that mistake again!

Poor babies....they thought you were playing a cruel joke on them and staying in a Disney resort without actually going to Walt Disney World. I bet they almost pee'd their pants when they realized they were in Disney World for a real vacation.

I think they thought it was a dream or something.
It just kinda dawned on them after a really long time of processing.
It probably didn't help that they all just woke up from naps in the car.

That is so totally awesome that you could pull this off- until the VERY LAST MINUTE!!! Amazing!!

I so wish I could have seen the looks on their sweet faces as it really sunk in!

Very nice start!

Thanks!
And I apologize for not kicking this TR into gear sooner.
I've spent the last several days registering and sorting out all the new kids in my son's Cub Scouts Pack.
I just finished and am going to bed! :faint:
But now that that's finally settled, I can get back to important things like DISNEY! :yay:
I hope to have the next segment by tomorrow!

All7OfUs

09-25-2009, 05:17 AM

Great! Looking forward to it!:happytv:

thecapells

09-25-2009, 10:02 PM

After finally coming clean to the kids, we headed to the Lobby and checked-in.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009367.jpg

We have never been to one of the All-Stars before (we’re Pop Century fans).
So I thought it would be fun to try something new this time around.
Being huge Buzz Lightyear fans, I thought DS and X would get a kick out of the Toy Story building.
So we picked All Star Movies.

Sure enough, my room request was honored as we got a first floor room on the corner of the Toy Story Building!
While I was checking in, the kids found the little movie screening area in the lobby and watched TV.
I thought I had a picture but I can't find it. :confused3

Anyway, this is a very nice touch and occupies the little ones while I was able to get everything straight.
Lastly, we got our Anniversary buttons (Mom and my first date was 20 yrs ago in March so this was kind of our Anniversary trip).
And then off to the rooms.

We got back into the minivan and drove over to a secret parking lot Mom found on the map.
Turns out it was very close to the room.
The kids had fun watching the other movie-themed buildings and then noticed the army men on ours.
They were curious but still didn’t know what to expect.
We walked up past RC the Radio-Controlled race car from Toy Story to our room.
The All-Star theme even carries over to the room numbers!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009004.jpg

Luckily, most of the good stuff was over in Andy’s Room so the kids didn’t see it yet (more on that later).
So first, we dropped off our stuff and explored the room.
As expected, it was themed entirely in Toy Story which was a hit with the kids.
From the movie posters on the wall
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-10.jpg

To the Toy Story border around the room:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009002.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009003.jpg

It was actually a very nice size room with two double beds and a fun bathroom.
The shower curtain was covered in stars
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-14.jpg

With a filmstip embedded on the shower walls
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-15.jpg

And more stars throughout the room
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-16.jpg

Hanging over the bed was an even bigger star that everyone loved
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-18.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-20.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-21.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-22.jpg

And you can see the bedspread covered with Disney movie pics.
The pics on the spread correspond to the other themed buildings at the resort:
Mighty Ducks, Fantasia, Toy Story, 101 Dalmations, and the Love Bug.

Finally, we all got settled, put the bags away, and got X’s pack-n-play set up.
Then the kids found some surprises!
Since Easter was the following day, we had towel bunnies waiting for us on the window sill!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-11.jpg

There was one for each of them and they had fun getting out their wiggles and playing with them
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009001-12.jpg

As you can see, Mom had the boys wearing their Buzz Lightyear's in anticipation of our arrival.
So we were ready to explore!
Stay tuned as we shrink down to the size of Toys and visit Andy's Room!

thecapells

09-25-2009, 10:30 PM

We headed back out to take some pics and had to start with R.C.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009009.jpg

Then the other kids climbed in!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009005.jpg

The layout of this set of building is well done.
There are 2 large 3-story buildings facing each other.
In the middle is a large door which leads to Andy’s Room (otherwise known as the courtyard).
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009010.jpg

To fully gauge the size, here’s Mom trying to reach the doorknob:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009029.jpg

It definitely gives you the feeling that you have shrunk to the size of a toy.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009011.jpg

And then, once through the door to Andy’s Room, the kids ran!
Staring at us was the largest Woody you’ve ever seen!
And in case you weren’t sure, it’s even spelled out for you. Literally!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009019.jpg

Woody is really well done compete with ANDY written on his shoe
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009012.jpg

In front of him stands Rex the dinosaur
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009016.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009017.jpg

And Bo Peep
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009027.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009026.jpg

Across from Woody is the largest Space Ranger you’ve ever seen!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009028.jpg

Buzz definitely makes you feel small
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009014.jpg

The kids started exploring a bit on their own now and found their individual blocks.
Starting with X
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009022.jpg

And then I lifted DS (Logan) up for a picture of his “L”
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009024.jpg

Then DD (Rayna) started running through them all looking for a “R”
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009025.jpg

The best she could find was a “Y” which appears in the middle of her name
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009034.jpg

And the kids even found me an M (Michael):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009036.jpg

Next up, the kids decided to jump across the checkers board (complete with Mickey Checkers)
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009031.jpg

X was so cute standing there jumping up and down on the not-so-Hidden Mickey!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009032.jpg

It was getting late and the kids were wiped after running around Andy's Room.
We headed back to our room but X wanted a solo shot of him and R.C.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009038.jpg

In the room, we noticed the greatest lights ever.
There is a popcorn box sconce handing on the wall.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009041.jpg

However, once you flip the switch, light shines through the pinholes and it's a regular light fixture.
It was really cool.

Anyway, we changed out of our sweaty clothes and into our evening attire.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009042.jpg

We had ADR's at Downtown Disney with a scheduled dinner date!
Stay tuned...

dawnbu40

09-26-2009, 06:25 AM

It looks like the kids really enjoyed the theming at ASMo! The pics are great and X looks like he's really grown since your last TR! Looking forward to more!

luckylady

09-26-2009, 10:41 AM

That Andy's room is to cool. looks like the kids had a blast in it. Can't wait for more.

WrightFamily06

09-26-2009, 11:59 AM

It was so cute that the kiddies didn't quite get you were going to WDW :) Love all the pictures of the Toy Story area and your room ! DS5 used to be obsessed w/ Toy Story when he was 2 and now DS2 seems to be following in his big brother's footsteps and is going to be Buzz for Halloween :) Boy X has really grown since your last trip , he's such a cutie ! :cutie: Can't wait to hear more about your surprise trip !popcorn::

TheCapellsMom

09-26-2009, 05:07 PM

OK, I just have to pipe in here and say that the funniest part to me is how I laid out disney outfits for all 3 kids in the morning and we are such Disney fanatics that they never stopped to ask me why their clothes were themed! They thought nothing of it!

DH and I made a point to avoid putting on our Disney shirts that morning because we thought it would have been too obvious. But in fact, I was wearing my mickey crocs and mickey earrings! Again- they thought nothing of it- their Mom is a kid at heart every day!

Also, since DH was driving, I don't think he really got to see how angry DS was getting as we drove past all the Disney signs and tried to convince him that we were really truly going to stop at Disney! He's so used to his Dad's practical jokes and sarcastic answers that he just couldn't believe that DH was telling him the truth! He was rolling his eyes and grumbling under his breath at everything DH said to him.

By the time we pulled into the All Stars parking lot, DS was more than a bit upset! When we insisted that we really were staying ther overnight, he was fuming!!! What kind of horrible, cruel parents would stay overnight in a Disney hotel only to get back on the road the next morning to drive 13 hours home???

I don't think reality really truly sunk in for him untill we were riding the Epcot bus the next morning! That's when the look of complete elation finally washed across his face! And yes- it was priceless!!!

mickeystoontown

09-26-2009, 11:33 PM

Your kids look sooooo excited to be at Disney! Cool resort pictures!

thecapells

09-27-2009, 09:57 AM

It looks like the kids really enjoyed the theming at ASMo! The pics are great and X looks like he's really grown since your last TR! Looking forward to more!

That Andy's room is to cool. looks like the kids had a blast in it. Can't wait for more.

Andy's Room was definitely a real big hit.
All of the kids loved just running from one area to the next.
I think it helped that we just finished a long car ride so they were really excited to get their wiggles out!

It was so cute that the kiddies didn't quite get you were going to WDW :) Love all the pictures of the Toy Story area and your room ! DS5 used to be obsessed w/ Toy Story when he was 2 and now DS2 seems to be following in his big brother's footsteps and is going to be Buzz for Halloween :) Boy X has really grown since your last trip , he's such a cutie ! :cutie: Can't wait to hear more about your surprise trip !popcorn::

That's 2 people that mentioned X is getting big.
I hadn't really noticed but when I compare the pics, he does look alot bigger.
He's definitely a little person now as opposed to a toddler.

Your kids look sooooo excited to be at Disney! Cool resort pictures!

We had a blast.
As for resort pics, there are some night shots coming up later so hang around!

All7OfUs

09-28-2009, 02:12 AM

meeko_33785

09-28-2009, 10:37 AM

Hi! I love all the pics from All Star Movies. I'll be staying there next month and requested the Toy Story building. From your pics, it looks fantastic. Looking forward to seeing it in person.

thecapells

09-28-2009, 11:04 PM

I had no idea all of that was in there! WOW!

I personally like the resorts with soft landscaping (ie. plants), but I can really see now how this would appeal to families with younger kids! They were obviously having a major blast in there.

Very, very fun start!

HA! I totally laughed at MomCapell's remarks about how angry DS was! Glad he was able to get over it and have a fun time!

Hmm... ressies? at DTD?? Fultons? I remember you guys liked seafood from Cap'n Jacks last time.

And that's just the Toy Story building!
I know there is some other fun theming in the other buildings as well.
But our guys are Toy Story addicts so this was the place for us.
And you can see how much fun they had!

As for dinner, nice guess but it's actually easier than that.
I'll post the update in a minute...

Hi! I love all the pics from All Star Movies. I'll be staying there next month and requested the Toy Story building. From your pics, it looks fantastic. Looking forward to seeing it in person.

It was a blast!
You will definitely enjoy it!

thecapells

09-28-2009, 11:15 PM

After changing into our formal dinner attire :goodvibes, we headed to the bus stop.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009044.jpg

40 minutes later (with a half an hour left before our ADR), we gave up.
We saw buses to every park (plus the water parks) go by but nothing to Downtown Disney.
The line had gotten pretty long and still no CM’s called in a bus for us.
I’ve heard this could be a problem at the All-Stars with the same bus servicing all 3 resorts, but this was insane.
Luckily, we had a Plan B.

We hopped into the minivan and told our GPS to find Planet Hollywood.
I love using a GPS in Disney – it makes the navigation soooo much easier.
We arrived without a hitch and then wandered around looking for a parking spot.
And wandered.
And wandered.
Annnnnd wandered...

Ugh – maybe the car wasn’t the best idea in the world after all.
I mean it was only 4:40 and Downtown Disney was packed!!
Finally, we found something and had about 5 minutes for our ADR.
And apparently we were a parking lot over from where we should have been.
I grabbed the kids and started off at a pretty fast pace.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009084.jpg

Finally we arrived and I saw that our friends had already checked us in (that was a relief).
Any guesses where we ended up?

Here’s your hint:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009085.jpg

:banana:

Yup, we were headed back to one of the kids’ Top Two restaurants in all of Walt Disney World.
(For the record, DD’s other favorite is Coral Reef while DS loves Sci-Fi Diner).
But this time, we had reservations for 8 as we were joining another family.
It turns out a friend of DS’ is a DVC owner and happened to be finishing off their trip as we were starting ours.
They had never been to T-Rex and we raved about it last year so we decided to meet up!
As usual, it was loud but soooo much fun.
I know people usually give it horrible reviews but if you’re going just to sit back and enjoy, we still love it.
Here’s a video which gives you an idea of the noise level as well as the awesome look of the place:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009045.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009045.flv)

I requested the Ice Cave once again but they didn’t have a large enough table in there.
Instead, they took us to the Shark Bar.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009050.jpg

This is a fun section but the best part is that we got to sit in the Jellyfish Booth!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009052.jpg

We saw this on our last trip and thought it would be a blast to sit here!
Basically, there’s a HUGE jellyfish hanging above you and it acts as a light.
Gotta love the creativity there!
Here’s a promo pic I snagged off a website to give you the idea (I forgot to take one):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/TRexJellyfish.jpg

And, to top if off, there was a nice little Stegasaurus staring at us
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009047.jpg

The food was good – Mom and I split the appetizer sampler again and it was plenty.
The kids had their chicken nuggets again.
All the food was above average and, yes, we will definitely be coming here again.
The only bad things about this place are that yes, it is loud (but we think in a good way), and the service is usually slow.
But the atmosphere more than makes up for it!
When we had the inevitable restroom breaks, I brought the camera to capture the restaurant once again.
I love these signs:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009053.jpghttp://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009054.jpg

Another shot of the Ice Cave
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009056.jpg

Then it was off into the Forest Room where an Apatosaurus was waiting for us
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009058.jpg

Along with his friends
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009059a.jpg

And don’t forget Mama Triceratops
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009062.jpg

With her little baby
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009063.jpg

Next stop – The Kitchen of Fire
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009064.jpg

This room had the grill (obviously) with Pteradactyls flying overhead.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009065a.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009066.jpg

In between rooms stood the Woolly Mammoth
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009068.jpg

And its baby
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009067.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009069.jpg

Lastly, here’s DD after dinner.
She was a little uneasy sitting in front of the baby T-Rex while it was roaring...
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009070.jpg

thecapells

09-28-2009, 11:19 PM

After dinner we headed to The Paleo Zone.
Next to the gift shop and Build-A-Dino store, there’s a little, almost hidden area where kids can dig for fossils.
It’s exactly like the Boneyard in Animal Kingdom’s Dinoland so we knew it would be a hit.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009077.jpg

The kids popped off their shoes, grabbed some brushes, and went to work
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009073.jpg

Even X had a blast!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009075.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009078.jpg

And here’s some dinos keeping a watchful eye on our little diggers
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009074.jpg

Outside the restaurant is a huge T-Rex exoskeleton
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009083.jpg

Lastly, I’ll leave you with one more look (and listen) of the restaurant’s namesake in a video from another angle:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009071.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009071.flv)

Stay tuned for a whirlwind tour of the Downtown Disney Highlights - Capell Style!

luckylady

09-28-2009, 11:33 PM

thecapells

09-28-2009, 11:44 PM

Wow that place is cool. Can't make it on our very fast trip in 2 weeks but planning a week or so in May. Think I'll talk DH into going there. How is the food? I wish mine were small enough to play in that area. Oh well G-babies one day. Great pictures.

Suprisingly, we really like the food.
I figured it would be like chain restaurant food but we enjoyed it much more than that.
And while its overpriced, they give you plenty.
We've been there twice now and both times split the Supersaurus Sampler.
(We love appetizier platters - no decisions!!)
It consists of ribs (for an extra couple of bucks), Spinach and Pepper Jack Queso & Chips, Brachiosaurus Bruschetta, T-Rexadillas, and Onion Rings.
Very tasty and ALOT of food.
We were extremely tempted to follow it up with the Chocolate Extinction
(an ice cream fudge cake volcano that spews smoke) but decided to grab something later.
We were pretty stuffed from the sampler.

Keep in mind that reservations are directly through T-Rex Cafe and not WDW-DINE.
And it's not on the Disney Dining Plan since it's privately owned.
But it was worth paying for an extra meal in our opinion!!

WrightFamily06

09-29-2009, 10:16 AM

thecapells

09-29-2009, 10:38 AM

Awesome T-Rex pictures !:thumbsup2 How cool that you got to sit in the jellyfish booth , I bet the kids loved it :) That's neat that they have a little place outside for the kids to dig , I didn't even know that . I will have to let my kiddies do that next time we are at DTD .

Yeah, the jellyfish booth was fun and we had a blast with our friends.
It was our first planned meet while at Walt Disney World!

As for the play area, it is a lot of fun and a place for the kids to get their wiggles out.
Especially since this was a short trip and no Animal Kingdom was scheduled, this was a perfect fit.

castmemberb4

09-29-2009, 12:00 PM

thecapells

09-29-2009, 01:26 PM

Awesome update ! Loved all of the T Rex pictures !
I have a couple of questions.
Do you know if I can get that appetizer sampler in the bar? It sounds yummy but I don't have an ADR for this time around.

Also when you use your GPS at Disney do you have addresses or are you able to find everything by searching by catagory? We don't usually drive down but this time we are, we pretty much know where everything is but it's fun to use the GPS.

Unfortunately I don't know about getting the appetizers at the bar but I imagine you can.

As for the GPS, we used the resort and park names.
They are located in Lake Buena Vista and our GPS knew things like Planet Hollywood, Pop Century, Epcot, and All Star Movies.
However, sometimes you have to preface with "Disney's" like "Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge."
Hope that helps!

BTW, you can easily test it by just plugging in those names now and see if your GPS recognizes them...

mickeystoontown

09-29-2009, 03:57 PM

Another great update. We ate at T-Rex in August and thought not only was the atmosphere cool but the food was really good too.

All7OfUs

09-30-2009, 01:09 AM

Oh gosh! Duh! Of course you'd end up there! So much for fun for the kids. Your pictures are fabulous, and while the food isn't California Grill quality, you sure look like you're having a wonderful time!

I can see X is really getting big- there's even a big difference between this and the last trip. Fun to watch them grow up :)

thecapells

09-30-2009, 10:43 PM

Another great update. We ate at T-Rex in August and thought not only was the atmosphere cool but the food was really good too.

I'm actually surprised when I hear bad things about it.
We really enjoy it.

Oh gosh! Duh! Of course you'd end up there! So much for fun for the kids. Your pictures are fabulous, and while the food isn't California Grill quality, you sure look like you're having a wonderful time!

I can see X is really getting big- there's even a big difference between this and the last trip. Fun to watch them grow up :)

X is definitely a little person now.
And the kids definitely had a blast this time around.
Speaking of which, it's about time to get back to it!

thecapells

09-30-2009, 10:57 PM

We finally exited T-Rex after several hours of fun and catching up with our friends.
It was getting late already so they headed back to Saratoga Springs.
We, on the other hand, had some more exploring to do.
And with a certified LEGO Brickmaster on hand, it was a pretty easy decision where we were headed next - The LEGO Imagination Center.
And Mom even had made sure that the boys were in their LEGO Star Wars shirts.

Outside the store, X found a cool shark
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009086.jpg

And then we checked out the LEGO version of T-Rex - slightly different than inside the Cafe...
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009087.jpg

DS examined each construct and you can see him trying to think whether or not he could reconstitute it at home.
But by now he was busting so we headed inside.
The Bionicle section caught his eye as he’s just starting to get into those.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009088.jpg

And then we saw something that we couldn’t quite figure out.
It was like a cross between Medusa and the melting witch from Wizard of Oz
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009089.jpg

We also spotted a robot complete with LEGO not-so-mini figure.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009090.jpg

In between each photo op, DS was combing the store for new sets and trying to figure out what to buy.
We ended up with the minifig sale (3 make-your-own minifigs for $10) so both DS and DD built their own and Mom made one for X.
And since I couldn’t resist, I grabbed a small LEGO City set for DS as well.
We were going light on souvenirs this trip but it was hard to leave his favorite store without getting him something – he’s a pretty good kid and deserves it!

We headed out (and had to almost drag DS out) and over to World of Disney.
It was getting late but we wanted to get some shirts.
So Mom went shopping as I hung out with the kids in the center of the store as they watched the big screen TV.
We basically were right next to this (which in itself was pretty cool)
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009092.jpg

And then I noticed the Fab Five were “Celebrating Today” so I had to grab some pics:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009097.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009094.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009095.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009093.jpg

I’m not even sure what we ended up buying but it wasn’t much.
And by now it was getting dark and we had a long day in store for us tomorrow.
We started to head back to the parking lot but but I had to snag some nighttime photos of T-Rex before finally leaving Downtown Disney:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009103.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009109.jpg

In the parking lot, we got all settled in, stowed our souvenirs, and noticed this guy staring at us:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009110a.jpg

Very random so I had to grab a shot.
Then we followed our trusty GPS and headed to our new home – All Star Movies.
The kids were pretty tired and everyone all but fell asleep on the way home.
But me – I was wide awake and tired of sitting.
Stay tuned as I stretch my legs and go exploring a bit on my own…

WrightFamily06

10-01-2009, 12:01 PM

3girls4me05

10-01-2009, 04:49 PM

Great reports! Can't wait for more. You also have me pondering a quick little stop when we go to FL in February to visit relatives. Hmmm can I squeeze it in?

thecapells

10-01-2009, 09:28 PM

Great update :thumbsup2 The Lego store pictures are great , my DS is also in love with that store , we are up to our noses in Lego's at this house ! LOL Beautiful night time picture of T-Rex ! Can't wait to see your exploring pictures , I need to do more of that the next time we go :)

I know the feeling - DS' floor is covered in LEGO and you can barely step without feeling one underneath your foot!

Great reports! Can't wait for more. You also have me pondering a quick little stop when we go to FL in February to visit relatives. Hmmm can I squeeze it in?

DEFINITELY!!! :thumbsup2
Even the quick detour was totally worth it (as you'll soon find out!)

All7OfUs

10-01-2009, 11:43 PM

dawnbu40

10-02-2009, 08:36 AM

I'm back from WDW and all caught up! :) The pics from TRex and DTD are great! The colors are gorgeous! I love Rayna's All-Star themed outfit! :thumbsup2

thecapells

10-02-2009, 10:23 AM

The Lego store is our hands down favorite!! There are so many picture opportunities there, and everything is done so creatively!!!It is one of my very first memories of WDW from back in 2000. You know that sea monster/dragon thing in the water. Love it!

You've already had a long, full day, but there's more??!!!

You must have gone a wandering around the resort!! Yippee, more pix!

I opted not to take the same pics we did last time like the sea serpent and the LEGO family and the robot.
You'll have to go the previous trip report for those! :)

But we love all that stuff!
And more pics are definitely on the way!
I wouldn't have it any other way!

I'm back from WDW and all caught up! :) The pics from TRex and DTD are great! The colors are gorgeous! I love Rayna's All-Star themed outfit! :thumbsup2

How was your trip?
Send me a link when you start your trip report!
As for the outfit, that was all Mom's doing.
But I thought it was perfect as well!

mickeystoontown

10-02-2009, 10:48 AM

thecapells

10-02-2009, 11:14 AM

My son absolutely loves the Lego store too. We tried to figure out what the blue Lego guy was too. We finally decided he was a cool guy with dreadlocks listening to music. Probably a wrong guess, but that's what we said.:rotfl:

Hey - it's as good a guess an any I suppose!

thecapells

10-02-2009, 11:23 AM

We got back to the resort and parked once again in the little mini-lot next to our building (very convenient).
We got inside and started getting their Disney PJ’s on and then I noticed something.
“Where are your glasses?” I asked DS.
“I don’t know.”
Great.

And the backtracking began. We knew he had them at check-in but didn’t think he had them at DTD.
So I headed down to the All Star Lobby for treats and the Lost & Found.
I asked for a pair of glasses that were chewed on and sure enough they surfaced!
He had lost them hanging out watching TV in the All Star lobby while we checked in.
So I swung past the food court and grabbed some milk and Mickey Rice Krispie Treats using snack credits and headed back to the room.
After the “be more responsible” lecture (the glasses are still relatively new), the kids enjoyed their treats.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009111.jpg
Mom said she would tuck them in as I was dying to explore.
Thanks Mom!

So I was on my own with my trusty camera and headed straight to Andy’s Room.
First up – the almighty Space Ranger shining brightly in the night.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009115.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009142.jpg

Then I turned around and snapped away at his “pardner”
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009116.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009127.jpg

Then it was time to have some fun.
I headed to the Woody building and climbed the stairs for some “artistic shots”
I decided to get some “showdown” pics of the two icons.
First, from Woody’s view:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009118.jpg]

And while I was up on the top floor, it was a nice time for some close-ups of the the snipers on the roof
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009123.jpg

Then it was back down the stairs and over to the Buzz Building.
But first, I had an empty Andy’s Room so I couldn’t resist the Mickey Checkers close-up:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009125.jpg

Then, the “showdown” from Buzz’ point of view:
I really loved how these “showdown” pics turned out.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009129.jpg

Followed by a shot of the courtyard
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009134.jpg

Lastly, a nice detail shot. If you notice the “books” on the shelf behind Woody, they are tributes.
This one is to Pixar’s first short, “Tin Toy”:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009141.jpg

Then I headed back to the room drinking my chocolate milk (hey, Dad deserves a treat before bed too!).
And at night, you can really noticed the star theme…
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009143.jpg

So it’s off to bed as we try to sleep before our One Day Adventure in EPCOT!
Are you as excited as we were?
We have lots of surprises and new adventures in store so grab that popcorn popcorn:: and settle in!

WrightFamily06

10-02-2009, 11:47 AM

thecapells

10-02-2009, 09:51 PM

Glad that you found DS glasses :yay: , that could have put an unwanted detour in your trip !:headache: Love the night time pictures of All Star Movies , night time pictures are my fav ! The Showdown pictures are so creative , great job ! Can't wait to read all about your Epcot day , sounds like you and your family had a blast !

Yeah, I was a bit worried there about the glasses but I figured it just had t be in the lobby somewhere!

As for the "showdown" pics, I was having fun.
I'm glad you liked them - I thought they turned out pretty cool as well!

eecteacher82

10-02-2009, 10:19 PM

3girls4me05

10-04-2009, 11:28 AM

I am telling my husband it is all your fault. Reading this report has given me the idea to plan one myself. I am heading down with my three children to Ft. Lauderdale in Febuary. Leave Friday AM (driving from MA :0 ) and will hit Orlando Saturday evening. Stay somehere (on or off?) and then suprise the kids with a trip to WDW on Sunday. Bonus reason? It will be my oldest daughter's 13th birthday! Where is there a better place on earth to spend your 13th birthday?

So keep up these great reports..you are giving me ideas!!!!

thecapells

10-04-2009, 08:55 PM

Those pictures are awesome! You may have convinced me to book our February "mini-trip" at the All Stars instead of POP! I have to say, that I get excited when I see that you have posted a new part of your report! I finished up writing my newest post in our TR and hopped right over here to read yours! Keep up the great TR!

I'm glad you're enjoying it!
I'll have to head over and check yours out!

I am telling my husband it is all your fault. Reading this report has given me the idea to plan one myself. I am heading down with my three children to Ft. Lauderdale in Febuary. Leave Friday AM (driving from MA :0 ) and will hit Orlando Saturday evening. Stay somehere (on or off?) and then suprise the kids with a trip to WDW on Sunday. Bonus reason? It will be my oldest daughter's 13th birthday! Where is there a better place on earth to spend your 13th birthday?

So keep up these great reports..you are giving me ideas!!!!

Glad to assist and I'll take full responsibility for your upcoming trip!
I should see if Disney will give me royalties! :rotfl:
Let me know if you need any help planning - as you can tell, I love :lovestruc this stuff!

thecapells

10-04-2009, 09:24 PM

The phone rings.
It’s early.
I reach my hand out and pick it up.
“Good Morning! Noooo Sleeping!! HA HA HA HA!!”
I realize it’s Stitch and the smile creeps across my face. :goodvibes
I can hear the kids giggling as they heard it too.
**WE’RE IN DISNEY WORLD!!**

We scramble out of bed and get showered and dressed.
This trip is merely a detour so we only get one day and we want it to count.
By 7:00, the kids are sitting at a booth at the World Premiere Food Court.
Mom was finishing up prepping for the day with X while I headed out early with the two older ones.
We ordered counter service breakfast on the Dining Plan (only regular this time, not Deluxe).
After piles of eggs, pancakes, bacon, and biscuits, we all filled up and couldn’t even finish.
Then it was out to the buses by 7:30.
A bus appeared right away (as opposed to the night before) and we were off to EPCOT!

Upon arrival, we were so excited.
We explained to the kids that it was the Flower & Garden Festival this time (our last trip was the Food & Wine Festival).
DD was excited because that meant pretty flowers and topiaries.
DS asked “Why do we keep going during Festivals?”
I explained that one was a spring festival and one was a fall festival.
Furthermore, their school vacations corresponded to these seasons so voila! Festivals.
However I did mention that when we come back for X’s 4th Birthday in February 2011, there will be no festival.
DS was very excited about that answer.

And so we arrived at the gates to EPCOT about 8:15 or so.
The park opens at 9:00.
With the bus fiasco the night before, we wanted to make sure we had enough time.
And I had planned to spend any extra time changing my Magic Your Way Ticket into an Annual Pass!! YEAH ME! :banana:
I had a conference scheduled in Orlando the following month and figured I could swing by in the evenings to wander the world solo!
I was very excited as I’ve never gone solo before and it would be an entirely new experience.
But that’s for the next trip report.

Before I was able to wander over to the ticket counter, a CM announced that they would let us in early.
They said we would be able take pictures of the Cinderellabration topiaries at the entrance to the park while we waited until 9:00.
I could live with that!
The turnstiles started moving and we wandered in.
Welcome to the 2009 Flower and Garden Festival!
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009145.jpg

DD, in her adorable little Minnie dress (props to Mom once again) was ecstatic as the first thing she saw was the topiary princesses!!
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009144.jpg

The Cinderellabration topiaries were actually really nicely done.
I tried having fun with this one framing the shot with the monorail:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009146.jpg

After Cinderella, DD ran over to Snow White
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009147.jpg

I had to get DS into some pictures so I convinced him that the dwarves weren’t too “girly”
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009148.jpg

Aurora and Prince Phillip were next
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009152.jpg

And then I had to get the iconic Spaceship Earth.
I really like these pictures:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009149.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009150.jpg

And, of course, we couldn’t forget little X making his "Bashful" face.
Yeah right. :rotfl:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009153.jpg

There were more topiaries as part of the Cinderellabration display but the CM’s only allowed us on this side.
We soon found out why.
To our surprise, the CM announced that we were now experiencing a Magical Moment.
And the 1st 60 guests at EPCOT today were going to get a chance to ride Soarin’ before the park opens!
HOW COOL IS THAT!?!?!?!

This worked especially nice into my schedule as now we’d finish Soarin’ and be on to other attractions before anyone else entered the park.
The funniest thing about this was that it was no longer Year of a Million Dreams and we didn’t win anything last year.
But this was the perfect prize for us as Soarin’ is the family’s favorite ride in all of Walt Disney World!!
So, the CM led us to rope drop and said we had to wait a bit there.
We were excited! So excited that DS announced he had to use the restroom.
UGH!

So DS and I ran back to the nearest restroom (alongside Spaceship Earth).
And then we ran all the way back.
Luckily, we made it back in time.
So much so, that I noticed we had time for an Empty Park picture of a great topiary:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009154.jpg

I never can resist. ;)
Several more groups caught up with us at rope drop and once we hit the magic number, the CM’s led the happy crowd toward The Land pavilion.
Come back soon and Soar with us!

WrightFamily06

10-05-2009, 04:58 PM

Love all the pictures w/ SE and the Topiary's and your family ! How cool that you got to ride Soarin before the park opened , what a magical moment .:wizard: Can't wait to see your Soarin pictures , since that's as close as I'll ever get to riding it , I have severe motion sickness , so no Soarin for this girl ! LOL

dawnbu40

10-05-2009, 05:04 PM

YAY for a Magical Moment! :yay: That must have been cool to be allowed to ride before opening! I love the topiary pics! Epcot is so beautiful during the Flower Fest!

3girls4me05

10-05-2009, 05:33 PM

I am so jealous! Soarin' is our favorite ride too! I can not leave that ride without having just a completely happy feeling come over me. I love it (as do my children).
What a great surprise.

I will totally take you up on your offer to help plan our surprise mini trip for my DD's birthday. Shall I PM you?

thecapells

10-06-2009, 10:33 PM

YAY for a Magical Moment! :yay: That must have been cool to be allowed to ride before opening! I love the topiary pics! Epcot is so beautiful during the Flower Fest!

It was a blast!
And the topiaries were really cool - it was our first Flower & Garden Festival!

I am so jealous! Soarin' is our favorite ride too! I can not leave that ride without having just a completely happy feeling come over me. I love it (as do my children).
What a great surprise.

I will totally take you up on your offer to help plan our surprise mini trip for my DD's birthday. Shall I PM you?

Soarin' is great! And there's even more Soarin' surprises on the way!
As for planning, definitely PM me!

thecapells

10-06-2009, 10:47 PM

Have I mentioned that this is just the greatest ride in all of Walt Disney World? :goodvibes
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009166.jpg

So we parked the stroller and then merged with the crowds – unfortunately the stroller parking put us towards the back but no worries!
We checked in at the entrance and asked for the Rider Swap Pass.
I took the kids ahead while Mom played with X.
We headed down the queue and were essentially bouncing down the hallway we were so excited!
Now I have a question for all of you.
I’ve heard lots about Soarin’s interactive queue but I’ve never actually seen it.
Does it not exist in the Fastpass lane?
We either get there first thing or use Fastpass and both times they send you down the Fastpass lane.
The only thing we see are the weird landscapes that DD made me take pics of this time around:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009156.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009157.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009159.jpg

And then, at the end of the hallway, we see the sign and know the ride is just around the corner.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009160.jpg

The family in front of us had a little boy but were first timers.
DD and DS told them it was the best ride and I assured the parents they would love it.
Finally, we arrived at the little loading areas and waited for ours to fill.
I realized this was a perfect time for a picture of course so I asked our new friends to snap a shot:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009161.jpg

Once we were seated and buckled in, I took some more.
You can tell by these just how excited we were for the ride to start!
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009162.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009164.jpg

A CM was even nice enough to take a shot of all of us! You gotta love Disney:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009165.jpg

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Anyone notice the discoloring on the seats where people's heads go? I never noticed that before.

Then I put the camera away and got ready to enjoy.
The room went dark, we lifted up, and the music kicked in.
AAAAHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Can I stay here?
Can’t you just hear it?
I’ve since found the ride audio (with sound effects) and I’ve set my iPod Alarm Clock to wake me up with it everyday.
It definitely puts a smile on your face.

When we landed, we were all bouncing once again.
I took my time unstrapping the kids and we mentioned to our new friends how we think this is the best ride in all of Walt Disney World.
I must’ve been loud or a CM must’ve been close because she asked me if we’d like to ride again.
I stopped for a second and didn’t quite understand.
OF COURSE I WOULD - WHAT A SILLY QUESTION!
I asked the kids if they want to go 3 times (since they owed Mom a ride) and they said “yes”.
The new riders were just strapping in and the CM led us to a row with 3 empty seats astayed on!!!
The Magic Moment just keeps going!!

When it was over, we rushed down the exit hall to find Mom very confused as to what took us so long.
I tried to explain but Mom was mad and frustrated because the park just opened and people were swarming into Soarin’.
So she quickly headed down the runway with the kids for their 3rd trip before the line grew too long.
I was walking on air but had stuff to do.
So I grabbed X and headed for the strollers.
I popped him in and went straight into Innoventions.
Stopping by the Kim Possible kiosk, I asked the CM if they can make sure we get sent to Norway for instructions as we will be right there at 11:00.
They helped me out and soon we had a Kim Possible assignment for 11:00 at Norway.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009167.jpg

Next stop – Guest Relations.
With X still in the stroller, I upgraded my ticket to an Annual Pass.
They credited my account with the price of the one-day ticket and they sold me an Annual Pass after applying the credit.
I was surprised that the ticket is not plastic but a simple paper ticket.
Seems too easy to lose or destroy but, hey, it works and I was psyched.
I made my way back to The Land pavilion and I wheeled X around the outside checking out the sights and letting him watch the monorail.
He looooooves the monorail. He calls it the “monorail choo choo.”

Soon after Mom appeared and everyone was still excited.
I finally got the chance to explain what happened earlier and how I couldn’t turn that offer down.
She agreed and all was well (although now she was jealous).
It was still only about 9:30 and the kids had already done Soarin’ THREE TIMES!! :cool1:

What a way to start the morning!
But before we left, I needed our lovely model to pose for us:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/Disney2009197.jpg

Any guesses as to what’s next on our list?

All7OfUs

10-07-2009, 01:51 AM

thecapells

10-07-2009, 09:08 AM

What a fantastic way to open the day at EPCOT!! What a cool surprise!

Glad Mom wasnt' too mad!

So, you went with the AP; that means more TRs for us!! I like win-win situations!

Look at your last pic. with your supermodel. Is that a Hidden Mickey they made with the rocks and lights?? I can't tell as the angle is a little tweaked.

So, you're off to a great morning!

Yeah, it was awesome!
And, yes the AP means several more trips!
As I mentioned I did the conference trip a month later in May (TR forthcoming).
And we are now prepping for our Pirate Adventure 10/30-11/4 including our 1st No-So-Scary Halloween Party! :banana:

As for the Hidden Mickey, I don't think it is although that would've been pretty cool!

WrightFamily06

10-07-2009, 01:35 PM

meeko_33785

10-07-2009, 06:47 PM

Great pictrues of All Star at night. It looks really nice with all the lights on it.

Soarin' 3 times in a row? Can't top that, can you?

The CMs at the Kim Possible kiosks were really accomidating for us too. Out ticket had us having to be at Italy at 11am (which is pretty much impossible since it's in the middle of the walk and World Showcase doesn't open until 11) and we had lucn ADRs in France. The CMs were so greatat being able to change the reservation to something that would be better. Really makes things easier. :thumbsup2

TheCapellsMom

10-10-2009, 08:43 PM

After dropping the 3 BIG KIDS off at the entrance to Soarin, I pocketed my Rider Swap pass.
The CM said the ride would be at least 15 minutes so I figured I would let X burn some energy running around the pavilion.
We went up the ramps and back down at least 10 times, then counted the fastpass machines over and over again…
Eventually the first batch of riders came out of the Soarin exit.
My guys were not in that group. Oh Great!
So, with at least 15 MORE minutes to kill, I decided to check and sure enough, The Land boat ride was open- and it was deserted.
So, we got a seat in the front row of an empty boat and off we went!

Now, don’t laugh but I am a total bio-geek and this has always been one of my favorite rides!
But - riding it with a wiggly 2 year old makes it difficult to enjoy!
He thought the farm animals and prairie dogs were cool (we went through all the animals sounds he knows).
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/DSCN7493a.jpg

After that, he was ready to disembark.
I guess agricultural experiments are just not so exciting for a toddler (or 99% of the adults I know for that matter)!
But I thought the neat mutant-sized fruits and veggies were Fab!
I took a picture of the pineapples growing because I knew the kids would be surprised to see the size/shape/type of plant they come from.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/DSCN7498.jpg

Also snapped the sunflowers because they are always so happy looking.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/DSCN7500.jpg

See- I told ya I am a bio-geek!
Once we hit the aquaculture rooms, X was a little more interested.
We took a pic of DH’s favorite fish (He likes them for dinner I mean- not for house-pets).
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/DSCN7499.jpg

I could have taken the boat loop around a couple more times to get a better look at a few of the more exotic plants,
but I knew that X had reached his limit so we disembarked and went back to wait for our Soarin’ family to come back.
Of course, I had no idea that we would have to wait yet another 20 minutes- and BOY WAS I PISSED! :mad:
The Epcot gates had opened and the place was flooding with people jostling for spaces on the Soarin line or the fastpass lines!
X was getting very antsy and was desperately trying to run away and get lost in the crowd.
I kept watching groups of people file out of the Soarin exit but not MY people!
I was just about to call DH’s cell phone when they finally appeared.
Apparently, they were given the chance to ride the ride a second time right after the first.
I don’t blame them for jumping at that chance, but it did take me a few minutes and a few deep breaths to put me back in a good mood...

Riding Soarin' with the kids definitely helped:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww192/DisCappy/DisneyDetour2009/DSCN7504.jpg

WrightFamily06

10-11-2009, 03:48 PM

3girls4me05

10-11-2009, 08:12 PM

I don't blame you for being a bit miffed at first. Oddly when I was there with my 2 yr old "the boat ride" was her favorite. We rode over and over again. The CM knew her by name after awhile. It was great to have that right next to Soarin'.
I hope you enjoyed your Soarin' ride once you finally got on.

1971DBday

10-11-2009, 10:26 PM

I've been sick all day and stuck in bed :sick:. I have finally finished both of your TRs and am caught up! This is helping me pass the time for our next trip. Looking forward to hearing more of your magical moments!

All7OfUs

10-12-2009, 01:48 AM

I absolutely adore "the boat ride" too! In fact, I like it almost as much as Soarin! Yes, geeky, but true. The horticulture in there is so amazing!

I can relate to getting stuck with the little ones when they are antsy and being impatient. I would have been a little miffed too! Glad you all got back together, and you could get over it and have a good time again!! Deep breaths! :goodvibes

mickeystoontown

10-12-2009, 10:07 AM

You are not alone in your love for Living With The Land. Our entire family absolutely loves it. Some day, you'll have to do the Behind the Seeds tour. The price is good and you get to spend about an hour or so seeing all the plant life and fish up close.

thecapells

10-14-2009, 07:35 PM

Great pictures of you and the kiddies in and on Soarin ! How magical:wizard: that they got to ride 3 times ! Congrats on the AP :thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day at Epcot.popcorn::popcorn:: I'm guessing you did Nemo next ???

Right on the money! Nemo it is!!

Great pictrues of All Star at night. It looks really nice with all the lights on it.

Soarin' 3 times in a row? Can't top that, can you?

The CMs at the Kim Possible kiosks were really accomidating for us too. Out ticket had us having to be at Italy at 11am (which is pretty much impossible since it's in the middle of the walk and World Showcase doesn't open until 11) and we had lucn ADRs in France. The CMs were so greatat being able to change the reservation to something that would be better. Really makes things easier. :thumbsup2

Yeah, the KP cast members were very accomodating.
It made for a much easier experience as you'll find out later...

thecapells

10-14-2009, 07:39 PM

Nice pictures of the Land ! I also enjoy that ride very much :) I would have been heated if it took my family that long to come off Soarin also but would have done just like you and took a couple of min. and cooled off !

Mom just had to forgive us.
I mean, how can you pass up a chance to ride on Soarin' with NO LINE!! :confused3

I don't blame you for being a bit miffed at first. Oddly when I was there with my 2 yr old "the boat ride" was her favorite. We rode over and over again. The CM knew her by name after awhile. It was great to have that right next to Soarin'.
I hope you enjoyed your Soarin' ride once you finally got on.

Mom had fun as well and the kids were sooooo excited.
They basically danced back down the Fastpass queue!

I've been sick all day and stuck in bed :sick:. I have finally finished both of your TRs and am caught up! This is helping me pass the time for our next trip. Looking forward to hearing more of your magical moments!

Sorry you are sick but I'm glad we can help.
Get ready for some more!!

I absolutely adore "the boat ride" too! In fact, I like it almost as much as Soarin! Yes, geeky, but true. The horticulture in there is so amazing!

I can relate to getting stuck with the little ones when they are antsy and being impatient. I would have been a little miffed too! Glad you all got back together, and you could get over it and have a good time again!! Deep breaths! :goodvibes

Mom didn't stay mad too long.
She was over it by the time we got to our next attraction for some family photos!!

You are not alone in your love for Living With The Land. Our entire family absolutely loves it. Some day, you'll have to do the Behind the Seeds tour. The price is good and you get to spend about an hour or so seeing all the plant life and fish up close.

Actually, I've been really interested in the Behind the Seeds tour and almost did it on my solo trip (more on that later).
Unfortunately, I couldn't fit it in.
When the kids are a bit older, it's a must-do for us though!

thecapells

10-14-2009, 07:51 PM

Our next stop (for those playing at home) was the Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009171.jpg

As you can see, we were much more cognizant of trying to take family photos this time around.
Especially since X is easily distracted.
“Nemo!” (he saw the gallery of Nemo’s friends next to the entrance)
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009168.jpg

But at least we all got to show off our outfits.
I loved my new EPCOT shirt!
Anyway, the kids enjoyed the Nemo ride last time around (as did I) and The Seas is a nice, cool place to explore.
In fact, there were some things we skipped last time so the kids were in for a treat!

I love the clammobiles
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009196.jpg

We climbed aboard and dove deep under the sea
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009172.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009475.jpg

Pictures were tough here with the lighting so I shot a video of the very catchy “Big Blue World”:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009178.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009178.flv)

After we found Nemo, we headed over to Bruce’s Sub House.
X was intrigued when Bruce decided to eat the rest of the family
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009179.jpg

After swallowing DD and DS, Bruce concentrated on chewing Mom
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009180.jpg

The kids explored a little on their own
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009182.jpg

And then it was time for some new surprises.
Let’s go upstairs.
“There’s an upstairs?” asked DS.
Let’s go see!
We headed straight for the Manatee Observation Deck as Mom wanted to see the sea cows.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009183.jpg

Upon arrival, we were informed that they weren’t there. There goes that idea.
So we settled for the aquarium area – this was new to the kids as well.
The kids really liked this running up to the windows and following the rays and sharks from side to side.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7506.jpg

Mom took a great shot of Mr. Ray!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DisneyStingray.jpg

They had a blast and we stayed for a while to let them enjoy.
Unfortunately with the lighting, the pictures came out very dark but I love this shot:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009195.jpg

After letting the kids unwind a bit, it was time to get going once again.
We headed back towards Spaceship Earth as we wanted to see the rest of the Cinderellabration topiaries.
However, first we needed some supplies.
Who is up for some shopping!?!?!

dawnbu40

10-14-2009, 08:04 PM

thecapells

10-14-2009, 08:14 PM

Count me in! :thumbsup2 I am always up for some shopping! :lmao:

Great family pics at Nemo :) I really like the ones in the Clammobiles! It's too bad you didn't get to see the manatees, I love watching them!

PS-You said to let you know when I started my TR...it's up now and the link is in my siggie

Yeah we were looking forward to the manatees so we were bummed.
But the kids did have fun running around the aquarium.
See you over at your TR and then back here for some shopping!

All7OfUs

10-15-2009, 07:21 AM

I am, I am!!! Pick me! Pick me!!!

Bummer the mantees weren't around, that would have been fun!

WrightFamily06

10-15-2009, 10:17 AM

Did someone say Shopping ??? You can always count this chick in for some shopping especially at WDW !

Really good family pictures out in front of Nemo . Loved The Big Blue world video and so did the kiddies ! Your right is very catchy , we've been singing and talking about it ever since we got back in May. LOL I'm w/ DS there's an upstairs ?? Never knew that till now and Manatees , I'm w/ mom there would love to see those !

Can't wait to see the shopping pictures !!!

thecapells

10-16-2009, 09:59 AM

I am, I am!!! Pick me! Pick me!!!

Bummer the mantees weren't around, that would have been fun!

Yeah but I guess it's something to look forward to for next time!!

Did someone say Shopping ??? You can always count this chick in for some shopping especially at WDW !

Really good family pictures out in front of Nemo . Loved The Big Blue world video and so did the kiddies ! Your right is very catchy , we've been singing and talking about it ever since we got back in May. LOL I'm w/ DS there's an upstairs ?? Never knew that till now and Manatees , I'm w/ mom there would love to see those !

Can't wait to see the shopping pictures !!!

"In the big blue world...."
Most people it seems do skip the upstairs.
There's some neat stuff up there.

But now Mom has some shopping to do...
:goodvibes

thecapells

10-16-2009, 10:02 AM

At this point, Mom was complaining about her socks.
Apparently they developed a hole and we didn’t think it w as good idea to walk on those all day.
Sure enough, on our way to Cinderellabration, we had to pass Mouse Gears!
Mouse Gears rocks – it has EVERYTHING you could possibly imagine.
I think the only store that trumps it is World of Disney at Downtown Disney.
So Mom went and picked out Tinkerbell socks along with a navy castle shirt that sparkled.
(She didn’t buy a shirt back in November and really wanted one so this was her excuse.)
I then convinced her to splurge and get the deal which was a Mickey watch for $10 if you spend $30 or so.
She’s been wanting a new watch for sometime and what better watch to have than a Mickey one!

As we were waiting to pay, I noticed the actual "Mouse Gears" all over the store and couldn’t resist:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009198.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009199.jpg
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009200.jpg

After our quick spree, we headed to Innovations Plaza for a snack.
We grabbed a bowl of fruit as a snack on the DDP.
And then we sat down on the curb next to the Fantasia Ostriches topiary.
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009201.jpg

We relaxed and snacked.
Once replenished, we made our way back to the front of Epcot.
But that's for next time...

dawnbu40

10-16-2009, 10:05 AM

Good for Mom for treating herself! The big kids deserve a little spoiling too :goodvibes Aren't those topiaries great? We are used to going during the Flower Fest and we really missed them in Sept!

thecapells

10-16-2009, 10:13 AM

Good for Mom for treating herself! The big kids deserve a little spoiling too :goodvibes Aren't those topiaries great? We are used to going during the Flower Fest and we really missed them in Sept!

Ah, but there's a trade off.
Fall means Food & Wine!! :goodvibes
Actually, this was our first Flower & Garden and it was fun.
DD really liked all the pretty flowers but DS really wants to go to Epcot when there's no festivals!
He just wants to enjoy Epcot without all the "pretty, girly stuff"

All7OfUs

10-16-2009, 10:21 AM

Have always loved Mouse Gears!! But for me, I was more impressed with the ostrich topiaries. THose were actually pretty cool!

WrightFamily06

10-16-2009, 04:22 PM

Cute pictures of the gears in Mouse Gear . It's always nice when us Mom's get to treat ourselves , doesn't happen to often ! So congrats to Mom on a successful shopping trip !

we3are1

10-16-2009, 04:56 PM

Realy enjoying your TR and can't wait to hear more. I didn't know about the 2nd floor and manatees. We will have to add that to our do list next time. And that was great news about Soarin - I talked my son into that ride (he's afraid of heights) He loved it!

thecapells

10-16-2009, 09:37 PM

Have always loved Mouse Gears!! But for me, I was more impressed with the ostrich topiaries. THose were actually pretty cool!

They were very neat (and, honestly, kind of a random group of characters to create topiaries of).

Cute pictures of the gears in Mouse Gear . It's always nice when us Mom's get to treat ourselves , doesn't happen to often ! So congrats to Mom on a successful shopping trip !

That's what us Dads are for - treating Moms!! :goodvibes

Realy enjoying your TR and can't wait to hear more. I didn't know about the 2nd floor and manatees. We will have to add that to our do list next time. And that was great news about Soarin - I talked my son into that ride (he's afraid of heights) He loved it!

Soarin' is the best.
And the 2nd Floor in the Seas is alot of fun - especially since it's so empty.
The CM's there are very accomodating for inquiring young minds to ask questions to.

thecapells

10-16-2009, 10:55 PM

Arriving at the topiary display from the other direction, the first thing you see is Cinderella’s Carriage.
DD wanted to be our model and pose for all the “flower pictures” but it was a bit sunny…
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009202a.jpg

Next, Aurora and Prince Philip danced in the sunlight
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009203.jpg

Then it was time for Beauty and the Beast.
Guess who is who!
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009204.jpg

Since there was a Beast (and he’s not too girly), we were able to convince DS to take a picture as well:
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009206.jpg

All the while, X was focused elsewhere.
“Monorail choo-choo Dada!!”
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009207.jpg

It was about 10:30 by now so we wanted to head up to Norway for our Kim Possible Check-In.
However, on the way, we saw something special!
Instead of Stitch and Daisy taking pictures near the Epcot entrance, it was Stitch and MAX!
Mom took DD and X and stood in line for Stitch (who X was excited about) while DS and I stood for Max.
I’ve never seen Max in the parks so I was very excited!
Max was very much in character and started by giving DS a Hi-5!
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009210.jpg

And then took a great pic with him with a pose reminiscent of his Dad's classic one...
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009211a.jpg

And then I had to jump in as well
http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009212a.jpg

Too bad there was no Photopass photographer here.
There was also none at the front of the park near Cinderellabration.
This was disappointing as you know how much we love our Photopass pics!

Anyway, after our pics, we jumped over to Mom’s line as she was next to visit Stitch:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7511.jpg

Then it was on to World Showcase Plaza…
Stay tuned for the transformation of World Showcase Plaza by the Flower and Garden Festival!

dawnbu40

10-17-2009, 07:03 AM

It's always fun to find a new character in the parks! Hopefully meeting Max made up for your son having to look at all those flowers :)

meeko_33785

10-17-2009, 08:53 AM

Wow, I haven't seen Max in the parks in ages. Looks like your DS had fun meeting him.

thecapells

10-17-2009, 10:28 PM

It's always fun to find a new character in the parks! Hopefully meeting Max made up for your son having to look at all those flowers :)

Well, I'm not sure about that.
Flowers are really girly you know...
:rotfl:

Wow, I haven't seen Max in the parks in ages. Looks like your DS had fun meeting him.

It was very cool and a total surprise.
Even after the insane planning I do, I still get surprised every once and a while at Disney!

thecapells

10-17-2009, 10:37 PM

After our chance encounter with Max, we headed back towards Fountain of Nations Plaza.
And here’s where you really start getting a feel for the Flower and Garden Festival
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/FlowerGarden09.jpg

It starts with an advertisement for the recent Disneynature film “Earth” created entirely out of sand:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009213.jpg

The shape even changed throughout the festival.
When I went back the following month for my conference, it was different but that pic is for later…

Towards the center of the plaza, there was a large Beauty and the Beast display and our model was ready!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009214.jpg

And then she demanded her closeups.
And I mean demanded - she made sure she got a shot next to EVERY topiary...

First was Chip (I thought his lips were a little too big):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009215.jpg

And then Mrs. Potts of course
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009216.jpg

Flanking them were Lumiere
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009218.jpg

and Cogsworth
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009219.jpg

Besides the topiaries, the greens were lush and flowers were everywhere.
Here’s a shot of probably one of the most Not-So-Hidden Mickey’s you’ll ever see:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009220.jpg

By the Lagoon, there was more of a jungle theme as the topiaries were dedicated to the Lion King.
From Mufasa
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009221.jpg

to Rafiki holding aloft baby Simba
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009222.jpg

The scene was really nicely done and even included Nala
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009223.jpg

Next store were some giraffes
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009224.jpg

And, of course, Timon and Pumbaa getting ready for a feast of topiary bugs!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009225.jpg

On the other side of the Simba display was Scar and Zazu
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009226.jpg

By now, it was approaching 11:00 so we quickened our pace and headed straight to Norway.
The kids were very disappointed to see that the Viking ship was gone and a bed of flowers and trees replaced it.
(I was kinda disappointed as well but I had read that this was coming).
So we took a picture next to what was left of the ship and signed in for our 1st Kim Possible Mission.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009227.jpg

There’s a little kiosk with the KP logo next to those remnants of the Viking ship.
The CM was friendly and allowed us to pick our country (Mexico).
We wanted to knock off this one quick and then head to lunch.
Come join us as we try to save the World - the World Showcase that is!

thecapells

10-17-2009, 10:50 PM

Sorry - I hit submit twice...

HilJoy14

10-17-2009, 11:52 PM

kangaand2roos

10-18-2009, 06:14 PM

I'm partway through your first TR and decided I should sub to this one. I should be caught up in a day or two!

thecapells

10-18-2009, 11:13 PM

Great pics of the family! Especially the one with Stitch!

I have been enjoying your trip reports for some time now (the previous one and this one) and am just now coming out of lurkdom to post. Can't wait to read more!

Thanks for posting! I love "meeting" everyone who is reading along!

I'm partway through your first TR and decided I should sub to this one. I should be caught up in a day or two!

Glad you found us!
And good luck catching up - I know the last one was pretty long...
:goodvibes

jmskinner

10-19-2009, 02:13 AM

All7OfUs

10-19-2009, 02:39 AM

I love Flower and Garden!! We've been there for it last two trips and are always just amazed at what the gardeners can do!

I was sad to hear the ship had sunk as well. My kids adored playing on it back in 2000. Sad.

I'm pretty convinced I want to do a Kim Poss. in Sept., so can't wait to hear your review.

thecapells

10-19-2009, 07:46 AM

Ok, haven't been reading TR's lately, but couldn't sleep tonight and yours was the first one to pop up so thought I would finally catch up. Love the resort pics. I want to give AS Movies a try now.

Too cool about riding Soarin' 3 times and before the park opened. I can't remember if the shots you took of the images on the wall were part of the interactive items or not. I need to look back at my photos.

Love the videos in T-Rex. (Sorry, getting out of order here.) Was that a member of your party that waved in the middle of the last one, or just someone walking by?

Can't wait to hear about your Kim Possible mission!:thumbsup2

Glad you're back but sorry you couldn't sleep.
Anticipation of yet another Disney trip keeping you up I hope? :goodvibes

All Star Movies was definitely a fun resort for Toy Story lovers.
I'm tempted to give another section a try on a future trip.

Yeah, I'd love to know if those weird scenes were part of the interactive display.
Doing it first thing in the morning and using fastpass, we've never experienced the interactive queue and I'm curious what it's all about.

As for T-Rex, that was our friend waving at the camera just to be funny.
I think I'd be pissed if I didn't know them and they did that. ;)

I love Flower and Garden!! We've been there for it last two trips and are always just amazed at what the gardeners can do!

I was sad to hear the ship had sunk as well. My kids adored playing on it back in 2000. Sad.

I'm pretty convinced I want to do a Kim Poss. in Sept., so can't wait to hear your review.

Kim Possible was alot of fun - the reviews are coming shortly and I'll try to remember all I can!

DisneyMom5

10-19-2009, 10:11 AM

We've only done the games in the Soarin' queue once or twice. I remember once in '07 it was during pm emh, and there was a 20 min. or more line.
They are cool, Wii style games, only your whole body moves and you have no controller. If you are birds racing, then your whole group has to flap your arms together to get your bird to fly faster. There are as many groups as there are those big picture displays, so 4 or 5 maybe???

It was a good way to pass the time while waiting in line.

This trip we just walked on several times, so no games were running. You have to have enough wait time to do the games. And yes, they are those weird geometric types shapes.

Enjoying the report! :wizard:

thecapells

10-19-2009, 10:34 AM

WrightFamily06

10-19-2009, 02:47 PM

thecapells

10-19-2009, 08:11 PM

Nice Update :) I can't believe you got to meet Max , it's almost magical :wizard:when you get to meet a character that doesn't seem to be around much anymore ! Adorable pictures of everyone in front of the Topiary's , WDW does such a beautiful job w/ the F & G Festival . Can't wait to see how the KP mission turns out ! popcorn::popcorn::

Thanks for the kind words and meeting Max was definitely an unexpected treat.
But now buckle up as we head South of the Border to Save the World!

thecapells

10-19-2009, 08:20 PM

At 11:00 on the dot (they wouldn’t do it earlier), the CM checked us in at the KP kiosk in Norway.
I asked to be assigned to Mexico and was obliged.
From there, the CM gave us a quick spiel on what we’d be doing and handed us a Kimmunicator (Disney’s version of an LG cell phone).

The game starts as Wade (the resident computer geek from the Kim Possible TV show) walks you through the “gadgetry.”
Wade makes sure you know how the Kimmunicator works, how you can replay things if you miss something, and everything else you need to know.
Then he sends you off to your destination.

We arrived at the temple in Mexico and pressed the "OK" button on the phone.
There’s little audio/video clips explaining a little more about the mission as you go.
All dialogue appears in writing as well in case you can’t hear it but the audio is very good so I wouldn't worry about that.
In fact, as you wander the World Showcase, you’ll most likely hear those tell-tales Kim Possible beeps as you explore.

Each mission takes you through about 7 assignments.
However, there are about 10 or so assignments available per country.
So if you repeat a country, you will get a different selection of 7 assingments.
I know for a fact there are several assignments we did not get and there were some we did that I hadn’t heard of before.
I believe the finale for each mission stays the same though.

Okay, then – that’s the basics.
Let’s save the world!!

The Mexico mission started us off in the area before the Mexican marketplace devoted to Mexican art.
Remember, this is where we started but everyone gets different assignments.

Our assignments here included finding a hidden seal behind the giraffes and getting information from an informant disguised as a dancing skeleton:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009228.jpg

The way these work is that once you get near the target, Wade explains how you should press the ‘OK’ button on the Kimmunicator to activate something.
The giraffe display darkens to reveal a hidden seal that’s been there all along but you’d never know.
The skeleton starts dancing and telling you some vital information for the mission.
These are funny as you can surprise regular visitors if they are unsuspecting (which we did from time to time).
However, you may see crowds of other agents activating targets before you.
I would scout ahead and try to “walk slower” so the kids wouldn’t see the cool stuff before we got there.

Another part of our mission included listening to the parrot in the marketplace repeat a conversation held by the villains.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009230.jpg

I forgot to mention – each country has its own set of villains from the Kim Possible television show.
You don’t actually need any knowledge of the show.
Everything is fully explained to you and you can easily get into the storyline without any prior information.

Finally we raced to our finale.
Overlooking the marketplace, we had to activate our Kimmunicator to prevent the villains from launching a rocket out of the volcano in the distance.
I was really looking forward to this as you actually get to see an animated rocket blast off from the volcano.
Our Kimmunicator successfully knocked the rocket off course and it crashed somewhere in the depths of the Gran Fiesta Tour.
I wonder what it looked from down on the boats but from our point of view, it was actually a disappointment.
The mission was fun, interactive and a solid one but I definitely found some of the others to be higher on my list if I rated them.
In hindsight, Mexico is smaller so a lot of the assignments take place in the same general area.
Even missions with less audio-animatronics at least had us exploring more of the pavilion like in Norway.
And that’s the point, right?
Get those kids actually enjoying the parts of the pavilion not named Kidcot.

With all that said, I highly recommend the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure.
And I’d even recommend trying every country if you could.
Of the four we did this trip, (yes, there's 3 more coming up),
I’d rank Mexico 3rd but still a lot of fun.

Each mission takes about a half an hour assuming you have a general idea of the layout of the pavilions.
I’d say Epcot novices may take more like 45 minutes.

Upon completion of your mission you get a choice.
The first choice is to return your Kimmunicator to a secret drop box well hidden within the pavilion.
Or, if there is battery remaining, the Kimmunicator will suggest additional missions at pavilions that are not too crowded with fellow agents.
We selected Norway and then I closed the Kimmunicator and put in my pocket.
As the CM suggested earlier, they have a decent battery life so you can close them, do some stuff, and then go back to your mission.
In our case, we had lunch reservations in another country.
But first, we celebrated saving the world by tracking Donald Duck through the Gran Fiesta
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009232.jpg

Now, come join us for one of our favorite restaurants in all of Walt Disney World.
Take off to the Great White North!

DisneyMom5

10-20-2009, 10:54 AM

thecapells

10-20-2009, 06:07 PM

We did our first KP adventure this trip. Kids would have liked to do more, but we were tired and dealing with weather, not to mention NINE kids between ours and my SIL, and it was too much hassle. Maybe sometime in the future???

That could definitely be rough.
But I heard you could get several Kimmunicators to the kids can split up.
In fact, that's what we expect to do next time around.
And since the assignments are random, we'll be doing different things even though we're in the same country on the same mission!

thecapells

10-20-2009, 07:24 PM

We headed directly across the World Showcase Lagoon and towards our neighbors to the north – the Canadian pavilion.
We had an 11:50 lunch reservation at Le Cellier! :banana:

Out front, we were greeted by, of all characters, Bambi and her friends
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009241.jpg

Not sure why Bambi appears here, but hey.
Nobody wanted to pose with the deer topiary including our professional model.
I think everyone was hungry.
So we headed down into the Canadian landscape.
Victoria Gardens is much more lush during Flower & Garden so of course, I don’t seem to have any pictures. :guilty:
I think I was too focused on lunch as well.
As usual, it was FANTASTIC.
Mom had her standard mushroom filet and I had my standard NY Strip Steak with cheddar mashed potatoes.
Both were great but I liked Mom’s a bit better and I think I’ll try that next time.
The kids were delighted by butter noodles.
I had a Cesar Salad appetizer and Mom split a French Onion Soup with DD.
DD ordered fruit (which we gave to X), and we ordered the cheddar cheese soup for DS.
Since DS wanted no part of the soup (which we expected), we used it as a dipping sauce for the amazing pretzel bread!
MMMmmmmmm…
For dessert, Mom had the crème brulee, DD has some cake, and DS and I got chocolate moose!!
I think everyone that comes here should get the chocolate moose
My moose came complete with a plate that celebrated our anniversary!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009244.jpg

While we’ve only been married 9 years this September, we’ve known each other for 20 that March so this trip marked a celebration of that.
We were even presented with a really nice card:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/LeCellierAnniversaryCard.jpg

And our adorable waitress even wrote us a wonderful little inscription
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/LeCellierAnniversaryInside.jpg

We love Disney.
And with Mom being Canadian, this is always a fun time.
So much fun that we had to replicate our wacky pictures from last trip:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009245.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009248.jpg

I love those pictures.
And yes, we’re really that weird.
But we have fun!

Lunch finally ended :sad1: and we headed out.
But before we left, I ran over to the falls for one nice scenic shot
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009249.jpg

Next stop – time to Meet the Mouse!

thecapells

10-20-2009, 07:36 PM

BTW - single digit dance! :banana:

We leave for our Pirate Adventure on October 30th!!
Hopefully, I'll have most of this TR done by then :rotfl:

All7OfUs

10-21-2009, 06:00 AM

meeko_33785

10-21-2009, 08:24 AM

Enjoying the updates. We were really hoping to try the mission in Mexico, but we weren't given it as an option. Hoping to try it next time along with a few others.

DisneyMom5

10-21-2009, 10:25 AM

We did our first KP adventure this trip. Kids would have liked to do more, but we were tired and dealing with weather, not to mention NINE kids between ours and my SIL, and it was too much hassle. Maybe sometime in the future???

We did have two, a boys and a girls team, which is probably why we are still sane. LOL

LOVE Le Cellier!!! I had the filet, with the mashed potatoes. Lick my plate good!!!

Thanks for sharing!

mickeystoontown

10-21-2009, 11:05 AM

Holy Moley Moo Moo Cows! I was behind four installments! You have some absolutely fantastic pictures of the Flower & Garden Festival. Love them all.

WrightFamily06

10-21-2009, 11:07 AM

Thanks for describing the KP mission so well and with pictures . Yours is the first TR that I've read that gave details everyone else is afraid of giving away all fun of the mission ! Yours really helped to tell me if we would want to do it next time were in WDW .

The Canada pictures are just beautiful ! I was trying to figure out myself what Bambi had to do w/ Canada , it was one of our favorite topiaries . The moose ear pictures are too funny , it's always good to be a little silly :)

kangaand2roos

10-21-2009, 06:47 PM

Well, I did it. I am caught up on both trips! I love your family. My kids are almost seven (dd) and almost five (ds,) so close in age to you older two. They have made 18 and 10 WDW trips respectively, so we are BIG fans. Annika had. A two headwound day when she was about 13 months. I thought the second would require a hospital, but acall to my pediatrician with instruction about what to look out for in terms of concussion turned out to be enough, thank goodness!! I felt for you all reading that story!

I am going to be at the world from the 29th to the 2nd all by myself. It's a mommy mental health trip to see Food and Wine and MNSSHP (twice!). I can't wait!!

Then on the 20th dd, ds and I start a 9 night stay at the world, joined by DH on thanksgiving day. Then we all go on our first Disney Cruise. I'm jumping out of my skin excited for both trips!!

If you see a 40 something womantraveling the world alone with a huge grin on her face and looking very relaxed, please stop me and say "hi!" I'll surely recognize all of you if I see you so I'll do the same! What night will you be at the party? I'm going the 29th and 1st.

I can't wait to read more!!

Stacey

thecapells

10-21-2009, 11:17 PM

Wow! I'm actually 2 updates behind now. I'll remedy that now.

I was very, very curious as to how the KP adventures REALLY worked- so thanks for that detailed run-down. Since my next trip is "all about the details", I'm for sure going to do one!

Le Cellier has never really called out to me; I guess not being a steaky kind of person, I'd still rather try a lot of the other restaurants I haven't yet. Maybe someday? Do love those gardens in Canada though. Gorgeous!! Nice waterfall shot!

Kim Possible is definitely worth it!
It's alot of fun as you'll seen on our upcoming missions.
Sorry about Le Cellier - it's definitely one of our favorites.
But if you're not a steak fan, I can understand the resistance.
Canada is still fun to visit though just to enjoy the scenery!

Enjoying the updates. We were really hoping to try the mission in Mexico, but we weren't given it as an option. Hoping to try it next time along with a few others.

The CM's were pretty good about allowing us to choose which mission to start with.
Hopefully you'll have better luck next time!

We did have two, a boys and a girls team, which is probably why we are still sane. LOL

LOVE Le Cellier!!! I had the filet, with the mashed potatoes. Lick my plate good!!!

Thanks for sharing!

Yeah, I drool about Le Cellier! I can't wait to head back on the upcoming trip!
And we plan to do boys v. girls at KP next time around as well! :goodvibes

Thanks for describing the KP mission so well and with pictures . Yours is the first TR that I've read that gave details everyone else is afraid of giving away all fun of the mission ! Yours really helped to tell me if we would want to do it next time were in WDW .

The Canada pictures are just beautiful ! I was trying to figure out myself what Bambi had to do w/ Canada , it was one of our favorite topiaries . The moose ear pictures are too funny , it's always good to be a little silly :)

You've been reading long enough to know we are very silly (or at least I am).
And I'm all about the details.
If people don't want to know about something, they can skip a particular post. ;)
I'm glad to hear that people are enjoying the details though.
I know I learned alot by reading others' TR's and I wanted to give back to the DIS by explaining as much as I can.
Hopefully some newbie will stumble across this and learn alot!

Holy Moley Moo Moo Cows! I was behind four installments! You have some absolutely fantastic pictures of the Flower & Garden Festival. Love them all.

Thanks! Glad you liked them.
Our model made sure we took each and every topiary! :cutie:

thecapells

10-21-2009, 11:22 PM

thecapells

10-21-2009, 11:27 PM

After Canada, there was still a couple of Future World attractions we wanted to hit before heading back to the World Showcase.
So we headed back towards the Fountain of Nations Plaza and finally saw our friends – the Photopass photographers!!
I’m not sure why we hadn’t seen them all day yet but we definitely were going to take advantage now.
Surprisingly, our model turned down the offer of some more pictures (I think the morning burned her out) but DS was willing.
And I even was able to add 2 borders I hadn’t seen before!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009002.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009008.jpg

They also took the Soarin’ Magic shot and then they asked us to pose while pretending to hold something.
I later found out that this was the new Celebration Balloons Magic shot.
However, neither appeared on our Photopass and they couldn’t be found when I called and had them search. :sad2:

From there, we headed back to Innoventions to the secret Disney VISA Photo Session.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009259.jpg

The line wasn’t too bad and we weren’t coming back again so we waited.
DS & DD ran over to the wall of video games across from the Segways.
Mom stayed in line, and I pushed X in the stroller who was starting to fade.
I started circling the “Where’s the Fire” exhibit when DD ran over and wanted to play in the house.
I said “sure” and off she went.
She was back in picture mode and wanted some shots in here so I happily obliged as I circled around.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009253.jpg

And this bed was jussssst right! Good thing the Three Bears weren’t around.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009254.jpg

X finally fell asleep so I wandered back to stand in line and relieve Mom.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009256.jpg

We were getting ready to go in so we gathered the troops.
I was pretty excited since we dressed DD up in her Minnie outfit hoping for adorable DD & Minnie pics.
Last time we were here, we managed Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy and it was a blast.
However, this time it was not to be.
Waiting inside were Mickey and Pluto.
No worries – instead of meeting Minnie, we’d apparently be providing Minnie!!
We started off with a big hug for Pluto
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009011.jpg

And then a nice shot of the kids with Mickey and his best pal
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009018.jpg

I like the new Flower & Garden borders so I tried one of them as well:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009020.jpg

Next up, Mom and Dad joined in!
Mom even tried to pose like Pluto
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009023.jpg

And even though X was sleeping, we got him in the picture too!
Even Minnie made a cameo in this one!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009036.jpg

On the way out, DD couldn’t resist one more hug with the Mouse himself
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009050.jpg

It was a lot of fun as usual – definitely a nice little perk for Disney VISA cardholders and something we make sure to do every trip.
If I had more time, I’d go back more than once (you can get one free 5x7 per day).
But now it was time to take flight.
I navigated my way through Innoventions West, out across Innoventions Plaza, and through Innoventions East with the kids following behind.
Finally, the doors slid open and we headed out into the sunlight for DD’s next surprise!
Can anyone guess what is was?

kangaand2roos

10-22-2009, 05:48 AM

Very cool Kanga!
Sounds like you guys are doing Disney up this fall!
As for your solo adventure, definitely look out for us - we'll be there from 10/30-11/4.
And we'll be at the MNSSHP on 11/1 as well dressed as the Pirates of the Caribbean! pirate:

I'll keep my eyes open! As I'm traveling, people watching is big on my agenda for the weekend! I haven't decided if I am going to wear a costume. I am trying to avoid having go check bags, and then there is the issue of temperature. If the forcast looks reasonable for my MNSSHP nights I might bring. My Elizabeth Swann dress. We'll see. Otherwise I'll be wearing Mickey ears or some such accoutrement!

Are you staying at Pop again or giving another try at the All Stars?

dawnbu40

10-22-2009, 07:05 AM

The Visa photo session looks like fun! All the pics are great but that last one with your daughter and Mickey is just precious!:goodvibes

WrightFamily06

10-22-2009, 12:21 PM

All the pictures turned out soo good ! Those are def. some prints to be put in frames .:thumbsup2 You all are such a photogenic bunch !

I can't for the life of me think what DD's surprise would be ? I'm gonna guess though and say it either has to do w/ Minnie or the Princess ?

thecapells

10-24-2009, 09:04 PM

I'll keep my eyes open! As I'm traveling, people watching is big on my agenda for the weekend! I haven't decided if I am going to wear a costume. I am trying to avoid having go check bags, and then there is the issue of temperature. If the forcast looks reasonable for my MNSSHP nights I might bring. My Elizabeth Swann dress. We'll see. Otherwise I'll be wearing Mickey ears or some such accoutrement!

Are you staying at Pop again or giving another try at the All Stars?

DD is wearing Elizabth Swan and we're all Pirates so you'd fit right in with us!!
As for hotel, since this is our big Pirate Adventure, we're splurging for the Pirate Rooms at CBR. pirate:
We can't wait!!!

The Visa photo session looks like fun! All the pics are great but that last one with your daughter and Mickey is just precious!:goodvibes

Who can't resist one last hug from the Mouse? :love:

All the pictures turned out soo good ! Those are def. some prints to be put in frames .:thumbsup2 You all are such a photogenic bunch !

I can't for the life of me think what DD's surprise would be ? I'm gonna guess though and say it either has to do w/ Minnie or the Princess ?

Wrong on both accounts. :scratchin
But I won't keep you in suspense much longer...

thecapells

10-24-2009, 09:11 PM

We stepped outside into the sunlight.
There were lush greens surrounding us and music which inspired visions of fairies. :tink:
Yes, we had arrived at Pixie Hollow.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009265.jpg

And guess who lit up brighter than Iridessa herself?
Yup, DD was literally flying on air towards the entrance!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009264a.jpg

There, in front was the famous fairy herself, Tinker Bell
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009266.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009267.jpg

Tink was even standing near her house:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009268.jpg

DD could barely contain herself and she skipped to the next fairy and demanded a picture
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009269.jpg

Fawn was standing with her animal friends
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009270.jpg

Next, DD ran over to Iridessa
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009272.jpg

Iridessa was flanked by sunflowers.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009271.jpg

DD then caught site of the “pink” fairy which is her second favorite next to Tink.
I’ve tried explaining that’s she’s more red but it doesn’t work.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009273.jpg

Rosetta had a little garden next to her
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009274.jpg

Including a pretty little Tink fountain around the corner
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009275.jpg

Lastly, was the water fairy Silvermist
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009276.jpg

I thought this display was done the best.
From the mist in the water
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009277.jpg

To the way they designed this alcove, it was just really neat
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009278.jpg

But Pixie Hollow was not just devoted to the fairies themselves.
There was a section advertising the new movie: Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure with props including a type of hot-air balloon
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009279.jpg

In addition, there were some replicas of props from the first Tinker Bell movie. First was a comb that the fairies used as a musical instrument.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009280.jpg

There was also an abacus that the head Tinker fairy used to keep track of things
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009281.jpg

Next to the topiary displays was a small playground designed more for toddlers.
I thought I had a picture but apparently not.
DS and DD ran through it pretty quickly and then had enough.
It was pretty hot and they were getting bored.

thecapells

10-24-2009, 09:13 PM

Next to Pixie Hollow was the Tinkers' Nook Workshop so we met Mom and X over there:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009283.jpg

It was designed as a “workshop” for the little ones to sit a spell and color some fairies
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009282.jpg

The walls were covered in fairy drawings and it was a pretty cute place to sit
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009284.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009285.jpg

Besides a little coloring page
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/TinkerNookCraft.jpg

We were given some seeds for our own Pixie Hollow garden:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/TinkerBellSeeds.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/TinkerBellSeedsBack.jpg

Lastly, we got a sheet of Pixie Hollow stickers:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/PixieHollowStickerTink.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/PixieHollowStickerFawn.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/PixieHollowStickerRosetta.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/PixieHollowStickerIridessa.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/PixieHollowStickerSilvermist.jpg

All in all, Pixie Hollow was a fun place and I hear they are expanding it for next year since it was such a success.
I know DD had a blast running around with the fairies :tinker: despite the heat.
DS suffered through it but was definitely starting to get grumpy.
Despite the grumpiness, we had one more “girly” spot to explore.
Spread your wings and join us for Minnie’s Butterfly Garden! :butterfly

dawnbu40

10-25-2009, 06:37 AM

Great photos of Pixie Hollow:thumbsup2 That was a really beautiful area and you captured it nicely :)

shannn

10-25-2009, 09:08 AM

What beautiful pictures!! You made my five year old peek over my shoulder and want to know why we didn't go there last week. I had to try and explain the Flower Festival to her! Now she's decided that's when we have to go again. :lmao:

WrightFamily06

10-25-2009, 10:59 AM

Beautiful pictures of Pixie Hollow and what neat stuff they had to do ! We somehow missed this on our trip at the end of April , beginning of May and every time I see it in someones trip report , I could kick myself in the butt for never finding it . Oh well maybe next time !

Can't wait to see the pictures from Minnie's Butterfly garden , we also skipped this on our last trip but on purpose , because it's such a pain getting the strollers through the chains they use to keep the butterfly's in . LOL

kangaand2roos

10-25-2009, 05:59 PM

DD is wearing Elizabth Swan and we're all Pirates so you'd fit right in with us!!
As for hotel, since this is our big Pirate Adventure, we're splurging for the Pirate Rooms at CBR. pirate:
We can't wait!!!...

well, there's no way i can be Elizabeth Swann now!! I couldn't compete with the poratey loveliness of Rayna!!

Enjoy the pirate room. I may try it for DS's sake one day.

thecapells

10-25-2009, 11:41 PM

Great photos of Pixie Hollow:thumbsup2 That was a really beautiful area and you captured it nicely :)

Thanks!
We had alot of fun in Pixie Hollow and it really was nicely done.
Like I said, I hear they are expanding it next year...

What beautiful pictures!! You made my five year old peek over my shoulder and want to know why we didn't go there last week. I had to try and explain the Flower Festival to her! Now she's decided that's when we have to go again. :lmao:

Gotta love it when the little ones take over and make all the decisions! ;)

Beautiful pictures of Pixie Hollow and what neat stuff they had to do ! We somehow missed this on our trip at the end of April , beginning of May and every time I see it in someones trip report , I could kick myself in the butt for never finding it . Oh well maybe next time !

Can't wait to see the pictures from Minnie's Butterfly garden , we also skipped this on our last trip but on purpose , because it's such a pain getting the strollers through the chains they use to keep the butterfly's in . LOL

The stroller was indeed a pain.
I had to push it through with Mom holding back the chains to get inside and I didn't stay long since it's a small area.

well, there's no way i can be Elizabeth Swann now!! I couldn't compete with the poratey loveliness of Rayna!!

Enjoy the pirate room. I may try it for DS's sake one day.

Ah matey, you're welcome to join our crew of scalywags! pirate:

HilJoy14

10-26-2009, 01:34 PM

Lots of great pictures! The fairy gardens are really pretty! I like the pic with Mickey, Pluto, and the kids, too. What a lot of fun you packed into this day!!!

thecapells

10-26-2009, 02:12 PM

Lots of great pictures! The fairy gardens are really pretty! I like the pic with Mickey, Pluto, and the kids, too. What a lot of fun you packed into this day!!!

We only had one full day this time around and we definitely made it count! :thumbsup2
There's still lots more fun and surprises to come!
I'll try to get another post up this evening as we finish packing...

thecapells

10-27-2009, 10:35 PM

Right next to the lush gardens of Pixie Hollow stood an oddly structured tent.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009288.jpg

The doorway consisted of chains hanging down from the roof that you moved aside as you entered.
The room was full of butterflies flying around as well as in little houses.
Mom, being a wildlife biology buff, took center stage here and showed the kids around.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009287.jpg

I found a Photopass photographer looking bored and sent him over to Mom and the kids.
The kids were adorable here and if you look closely, you can see all the stickers adorning their t-shirts.
Since it was Photopass, I was even able to add a Minnie border since it seemed appropriate:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009055.jpg

And then a Flower & Garden shot:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009064.jpg

Passing through the garden, you come out in a more scenic area of EPCOT during the Flower & Garden Festival.
There's even a topiary highlighting the Butterfly Garden
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009289.jpg

And, of course, the “owner” of the garden herself
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009290.jpg

Since we missed Minnie at the Disney VISA photo shoot, I had to take advantage here:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009291.jpg

DS was now officially done with “girly” stuff so it was time to head back to the World Showcase.
After all, Norway needed saving.
<cue Kim Possible beeps>

All7OfUs

10-28-2009, 05:59 AM

dawnbu40

10-28-2009, 06:28 AM

More lovely pics! I'm looking forward to hearing how your family liked Kim Possible! popcorn:: We loved it!

WrightFamily06

10-28-2009, 03:36 PM

Beautiful pictures of Minnie's Butterfly garden , how cool that you found a Photopass Photographer in there , never seen anyone w/ PP pictures in Minnie's Butterfly Garden , until now !

Can't wait to hear all about the next KP mission :)

thecapells

10-28-2009, 11:37 PM

I love me a butterfly garden!! How cool to have found one, and hosted by the "First Lady" herself.

I can understand DSs weariness of "girly stuff" - boys do need adventure, and saving the world I imagine would rank pretty high! ;)

Yeah, DS was very anxious to get back to our missions...

More lovely pics! I'm looking forward to hearing how your family liked Kim Possible! popcorn:: We loved it!

ask and ye shall receive...

Beautiful pictures of Minnie's Butterfly garden , how cool that you found a Photopass Photographer in there , never seen anyone w/ PP pictures in Minnie's Butterfly Garden , until now !

Can't wait to hear all about the next KP mission :)

It was very surprising to find one there.
And looking bored no less.
It amazes me how so many people do not take advantage of Photopass.
We love it!!

thecapells

10-29-2009, 12:10 AM

Unfortunately, DS still didn’t want to do this ride so we skipped the Maelstrom yet again.
I swung past the Norway Kim Possible check-in station and grabbed another ticket for later (just in case our battery ran out).
I got 3:15 at Norway and then asked for one more in the middle of World Showcase so the CM gave me Italy as well.
Here’s what they look like (for those looking to play next time around):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/KPNorway.jpg

With our afternoon mission secured, I pulled the Kimmunicator out of my pocket and there was Wade issuing instructions.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009296.jpg

The idea here was that Camille Leon was planning some heist at a fashion show.
We had to pose as Norwegian models and enlist the aid of the long lost ghosts of the Vikings to help stop her.
Yes, it was as weird as it sounded.
So we set off to awaken the Norwegian Viking ghosts while Mom took X on a walk.
To her delight, she came across Three Caballeros Donald!!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009481.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7520.jpg

Meanwhile, back in Norway, we raised the flag to alert the Viking ghosts.
This was the big replacement for the Viking ship.
It’s a bit of a let down in comparison but it was kinda neat.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009294.jpg

In fact, there are 2 tasks here as you then turn around and are captured on film from across the World Showcase Lagoon.
Your picture is then added to a magazine cover for Viking Fashion and you see the results on your Kimmunicator.
This was cool as it was pretty surprising that there’s a camera somewhere taking your picture.
It’s almost like Wade is really using satellites to keep track of you.
The picture in Viking Fashion is used to get Camille’s attention so we can get invited to the big fashion show.

We then had to use smoke signals to communicate with the ghosts.
The signals were very hard to see but we did have fun running through the shops looking for posters and clues like this one:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009298.jpg

The finale here was also alot of fun.
A Norway poster outside the Maelstrom turns into a video screen and allows us to see the Viking fashion show.
I took a video of the show so you can see the Viking ghosts arrive and capture the master of disguise.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009299a.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009299a.flv)

The plotline was weird but they definitely used Norway very well.
The assignments had us explore the entire pavilion including Maelstrom.
That was the only downside – having to enter the exit of Maelstrom to get a clue.
It’s easier if you ride the ride but since we didn’t, it was a little annoying.
But for someone whose never been to Norway, if you play this mission, you will know it inside and out.
Very well done.

On the way out, you can drop off your Kimmunicator in the hidden dropbox
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009300.jpg

or select yet another mission if you have battery life.
We were doing fine on battery life so I selected Germany as our next mission.
So we called Mom and she met us near the pavilion entrance as this guy kept an eye on us
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009301.jpg

I was sad I missed Donald but that was okay.
The kids were getting antsy now and X wanted to do something (the missions are tough on him since he’s basically sitting in his stroller the whole time).
We figured a break from Kim Possible was in order.
So we headed around the world with an eye on letting our scallywags get their “yo-ho’s” out.
Let’s see who can guess our next destination…

WrightFamily06

10-29-2009, 05:15 PM

thecapells

10-29-2009, 10:39 PM

Great pictures and video from the KP Norway mission :thumbsup2 Beautiful pictures of Mom w/ Donald , how special for her .

You have me stumped this time on where your going next , not even gonna guess ????

Well, you get some time to think about it as we head out tomorrow for our Disney Pirate Adventure! pirate:
I'll try to post from the resort if we have time.
But I'll be back with lots more stories on the 4th!

dawnbu40

10-30-2009, 06:17 AM

Hope you guys have a magical time!:tinker:

WrightFamily06

10-30-2009, 11:01 AM

Well, you get some time to think about it as we head out tomorrow for our Disney Pirate Adventure! pirate:
I'll try to post from the resort if we have time.
But I'll be back with lots more stories on the 4th!

Have a safe trip and magical time ! Can't wait to hear all about it !

jmskinner

10-31-2009, 06:54 AM

I caught up again and you are off creating your next TR. Hope you guys have a great time, but I know you will.

While reading your TR, I realized I never went into the Pixie Hollow during the F&G Festival. Loved all of your pics.

And I have a pic of the camera that takes your picture in Norway.

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip and MNSSHP when you get back.

thecapells

11-04-2009, 09:51 PM

Hey gang!
We just got back - it was a blast!
We did so much including lots of new adventures for everyone!!

However, while I've been gone, I noticed photobucket went over the limit again.
The older pics should be back next week.
In the meantime, I hope to get the next segment of our spring trip done in the next day or so.
Can't wait to catch up so I can tell you all about this past trip!!!

Hope you guys have a magical time!:tinker:

Thanks! We definitely did!

Have a safe trip and magical time ! Can't wait to hear all about it !

Thanks again! It was great and we're sad to be home!
Time to start planning Feb 2011 for X's 4th Birthday :rotfl:

I caught up again and you are off creating your next TR. Hope you guys have a great time, but I know you will.

While reading your TR, I realized I never went into the Pixie Hollow during the F&G Festival. Loved all of your pics.

And I have a pic of the camera that takes your picture in Norway.

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip and MNSSHP when you get back.

Pixie Hollow was a blast and I hear they are expanding for 2010 so give it a shot!
And I'd love to see that pic of the camera in Norway...

dawnbu40

11-05-2009, 06:09 AM

Welcome home! Looking forward to hearing about your adventure!

boxmaster

11-05-2009, 11:16 PM

Hey gang!
We just got back - it was a blast!
We did so much including lots of new adventures for everyone!!

...

Thanks again! It was great and we're sad to be home!
Time to start planning Feb 2011 for X's 4th Birthday :rotfl:

I've FINALLY caught up, fully, with your 2008 and Spring Break TRs. :woohoo: You've only been nudging me about that for a while. :rolleyes1 (For the regulars on here, I'm long-time friend of the family, and need to update my profile to "Disney Uncle".)

I'm looking forward to reading the TR, and hearing the accounts from the kids first-hand. :banana: And DEFINITELY looking forward to joining in on the Feb 2011 trip. Put DS on some of those rollercoasters with me. Heck, maybe by then I can convince him to go on Tower of Terror? I *LOVE* that ride. :yay:

Anyway, glad you guys got back and had a blast. Looking forward to seeing you guys soon.

All7OfUs

11-06-2009, 01:11 AM

So glad you made it back safely!! I know you'll have lots to share with us, and can't wait to hear all about it!!

thecapells

11-06-2009, 07:55 AM

Welcome home! Looking forward to hearing about your adventure!

We had a BLAST! Lots of new experiences and a bunch to share!
But first I have to finish this TR up!
So many Disney adventures, so little time... :confused3

I've FINALLY caught up, fully, with your 2008 and Spring Break TRs. :woohoo: You've only been nudging me about that for a while. :rolleyes1 (For the regulars on here, I'm long-time friend of the family, and need to update my profile to "Disney Uncle".)

I'm looking forward to reading the TR, and hearing the accounts from the kids first-hand. :banana: And DEFINITELY looking forward to joining in on the Feb 2011 trip. Put DS on some of those rollercoasters with me. Heck, maybe by then I can convince him to go on Tower of Terror? I *LOVE* that ride. :yay:

Anyway, glad you guys got back and had a blast. Looking forward to seeing you guys soon.

It's about time you got here!
Now you can heckle as we go. ;)
I've known Boxmaster since about 7th Grade and he's basically part of the family.
So his take on our experiences should be an interesting insight.

On a side note, I planned his parents' recent trip (which happened to overlap with ours) so everyone's gone recently but him!
We definitely have to "Disney-ize" :wizard: him so everyone has to help me out!

So glad you made it back safely!! I know you'll have lots to share with us, and can't wait to hear all about it!!

I can't wait to tell you all about it! :yay:

Clemson Fan

11-06-2009, 11:32 AM

Wow, these are some long threads.

thecapells

11-06-2009, 02:36 PM

Wow, these are some long threads.

Hopefully they're long but fun! :woohoo:

thecapells

11-09-2009, 10:44 AM

Hello everyone.
Sorry I've been out of touch - busy editing over 400 Photopass pics from our Halloween Adventure! :banana:

As for this TR, Photopass should turn my pics back on on 11/12 and I promise to have an update posted then!
I need to catch up after all!!

In the meantime, I was surprised that no one has figured out our next destination.
Does noone recall where our little buccaneers can unwind during Flower & Garden complete with vessels and golden dubloons? pirate:

All7OfUs

11-09-2009, 12:06 PM

thecapells

11-09-2009, 12:28 PM

Gosh, I am just clueless on this one! I would have said the Viking ship, but they took that out. Doubloons?

Oh, wait... HOLD IT---STOP THE MUSIC!!

I got it!

It's Donald's Duckboat Ride. Oy vey!!

You took a cruise on the Rio del Tempo!!

Am I right??!!

There's treasure on the Gran Fiesta Tour? :confused3
Either way, that's not it (hint - wrong direction around the World Showcase).
Sounds like I've got you stumped... :woohoo:

All7OfUs

11-11-2009, 06:45 AM

I will admit it! You have me TOTALLY AND COMPLETELY stumped! I have not a clue where you could mean.

If I go right instead of left- I hit Canada, UK, France, Morocco, then Japan, the US.

Vessels?? Kids unwinding?

I know America has a clipper ship replica.

France had something "doubloon-ish" at one time. But that Spain was the first to mint these. (Hence, I guessed Mexico)

WOW!! I just have no idea here...

thecapells

11-11-2009, 07:15 PM

yinyanggirls

11-11-2009, 09:52 PM

thecapells

11-11-2009, 10:45 PM

We are going on my daughter's wish trip in the spring (probably April) and I've been reading this TR but I can't see the photos! What am I doing wrong? It has a photobucket symbol that says bandwidth exceeded, upgrade to pro. I already have a photobucket pro account. Obviously others can see the photos. :( I'm bummed. I was so excited to see so many "photos" of the garden festival....

Sorry about that.
Apparently the bandwidth was exceeded for my photobucket account.
I'm lazy and only have the free photobucket account, not the pro.
My bandwidth should reset tomorrow (Thursday).
Check again and you'll see that the pictures are all back.
In fact, I'll post another update then as well!

yinyanggirls

11-11-2009, 11:17 PM

Sorry about that.
Apparently the bandwidth was exceeded for my photobucket account.
I'm lazy and only have the free photobucket account, not the pro.
My bandwidth should reset tomorrow (Thursday).
Check again and you'll see that the pictures are all back.
In fact, I'll post another update then as well!

Oh good! (I mean, that I'm not doing something wrong - I thought I finally had this place figured out!) I can't wait to catch up. Thanks!

yinyanggirls

11-12-2009, 02:34 AM

thecapells

11-12-2009, 07:59 AM

Yay! I can see pics! The blue guy reminded me of this one person on Doodlebops? Mine never watched it, but I think that was the name...

Yeah - pics are back!
I promise to post an update tonite (maybe even two to catch up some).
And, yeah, the blue guy does kinda look like Mo from Doodlebops...

pipersmom

11-12-2009, 10:09 AM

I followed yinyanggirls over here, what an awesome TR! I loove all the piccies from the Flower & Garden. Looking forward to the next update :)

thecapells

11-12-2009, 10:13 AM

I followed yinyanggirls over here, what an awesome TR! I loove all the piccies from the Flower & Garden. Looking forward to the next update :)

Thanks for the kind words.
Hopefully I can continue to keep you entertained.
So Welcome Aboard!

All7OfUs

11-12-2009, 11:28 AM

thecapells

11-12-2009, 11:47 AM

Can I just also welcome pipersmom too?!! Yay! You found one of the best TRs on the boards right now! And with the Capell's there's also another one right around corner. :yay:

Still am stumped at the clue. But thinking hard on it. If I lose a night's sleep, I'm comin' at ya! ;):rotfl2:

Thanks for the kind words.
And I am pretty far behind in reports.
I have two more to go after I finish this one.
But I don't think it'll last to our next trip.
I can't drag it out that long (Feb 2011) - you'd all kill me! :laughing:
But I imagine once I finish, I can at least start a PTR for the next one... :goodvibes

thecapells

11-12-2009, 10:41 PM

Sorry it's been so long.
Now back to your regularly scheduled TR...

thecapells

11-12-2009, 10:47 PM

We decided to stop for a snack and grabbed a Frozen Strawberry drink using a snack on our dining plan.
We all split it but it was VERY refreshing!!

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009487.jpg

After a brief stop for brain freeze, we continued travelling the globe.
I knew the kids were antsy so I made for the Flower and Garden Pirate Zone
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009302.jpg

This was a little area made up of some fun for little ones.
For the adults were the really cool topiaries of Captain Hook and the Crocodile
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009303.jpg

Our pirate liked these as well – finally, something that wasn’t “girly!”
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009304.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009305.jpg

In the middle of the area was a spiderweb-like climbing apparatus.
Only the “bigger” kids were allowed on this and the CM asked each child if they were over a certain age before allowing them on.
I think the minimum age was 5 or 6.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009311.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009307.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009308.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009309.jpg

That’s okay – the princesses and fairies were able to take a cruise while waiting for their older siblings.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009306.jpg

And their cruise led them to a treasure chest full of gold!
(okay so it wasn't quite dubloons)
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009310.jpg

DD finally convinced DS to come join her so they both launched themselves onto the high seas!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009313.jpg

There was another boat on the other side of the area as well
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009314.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009316.jpg

But make sure the croc doesn’t get you!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009315.jpg

Finally, the boats discovered land the kids were ready to move on.
Speaking of boats, that’s what X was watching about now.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009483.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7525.jpg

But with the smell of sausages in the air and whimsical music playing throughout the courtyard, I once again reached into my pocket.
And once again we were transformed into a crack team of super agents ready to help Kim Possible.
Okay, Wade – What’s the sitch?

All7OfUs

11-13-2009, 12:19 AM

Thanks for the kind words.
And I am pretty far behind in reports.
I have two more to go after I finish this one.
But I don't think it'll last to our next trip.
I can't drag it out that long (Feb 2011) - you'd all kill me! :laughing:
But I imagine once I finish, I can at least start a PTR for the next one... :goodvibes

I spend the majority of my time over on the pre-trippies board; and of course, we'd LOVE to have you join us for the fun over there! They are threads of a different breed! You never know where they are going to end up going, and usually digress into a whole bunch of nonsensical chatter about all kinds of strange subjects. Very fun, though, I admit!

OK. THat was tricky!! I knew that it couldn't be part of the "normal" EPCOT. Now I understand... it was temp exhibit just for F&G!! We went during F&G last trip, but sadly didn't sneek into hardly any of the exhibits, as my dad was already antsy and trying to rush us through WS.

Looks like X was more impressed with the real deal of boats than the ones that don't go anywhere.

thecapells

11-13-2009, 07:42 AM

I spend the majority of my time over on the pre-trippies board; and of course, we'd LOVE to have you join us for the fun over there! They are threads of a different breed! You never know where they are going to end up going, and usually digress into a whole bunch of nonsensical chatter about all kinds of strange subjects. Very fun, though, I admit!

OK. THat was tricky!! I knew that it couldn't be part of the "normal" EPCOT. Now I understand... it was temp exhibit just for F&G!! We went during F&G last trip, but sadly didn't sneek into hardly any of the exhibits, as my dad was already antsy and trying to rush us through WS.

Looks like X was more impressed with the real deal of boats than the ones that don't go anywhere.

Yeah, I was being sneaky.
But it was fun watching you guys try to guess!!! :laughing:
X was definitely more impressed with the real boats as you'll see in the next update...

dawnbu40

11-13-2009, 08:04 AM

That pirate area looks so cute. I don't remember seeing that but it looks like a lot of fun for the kids! :yay: for more Kim Possible adventures!

thecapells

11-13-2009, 08:24 AM

That pirate area looks so cute. I don't remember seeing that but it looks like a lot of fun for the kids! :yay: for more Kim Possible adventures!

It looks like the Pirate Zone was a hit - I even saw it in the descriptions for the 2010 F&G.
And yeah, we LOVE Kim Possible and the next one is probably our favorite...

pipersmom

11-13-2009, 09:32 AM

thecapells

11-13-2009, 08:02 PM

Thank you two for the warm welcome :) The pirate area looks very cool! If we get the dates we want, we're going to be just a bit too early for the F&G, I think. Looking forward to hearing about your next KP mission...

Too bad you'll miss F&G - it was really a neat time.
As for KP, another mission is coming right up!

thecapells

11-13-2009, 08:10 PM

We quickly learned that Professor Dementor was constructing a mind-control device using pretzels baked in Germany.
He was testing his mind control on the scale model of trains at the edge of town where we had to hack into the signal he was using.
Then we needed to find the decryption password which led us to singing steins – here’s their song.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009320.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009320.flv)

and a secret code protected by Toy Soldiers
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009322.jpg

Once we cracked the code, we were able to break the mind control link by calling Professor Dementor and leaving a message on his answering machine.
This was definitely our favorite mission.
We explored the whole pavilion and had lots of interaction with everything (the trains, toy soliders, steins, etc.)

Mom, on the other hand, was once again stuck with X.
They continued to watch the Friendship Boats pass and even saw the big globe make its way into the World Showcase Lagoon for Illuminations
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009318.jpg

Then Mom and X headed over to follow along from the courtyard taking pictures of the things we made happen.
They also happened to be standing there on the hour so they caught the clock ringing
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009489.jpg

And saw the rooster
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009488.jpg

And then came the finale which was definitely one of our favorites.
As the villain makes a break for it, a German Hummel figurine is hot on his trail!!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7531.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7535.jpg

Here’s a video
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009323.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009323.flv)

There’s just something very cool about pushing a button and activating something in a World Showcase pavilion that large.
So large that people in the courtyard were caught off guard and stopped to look.
So large that elderly people below the “chase” jumped up in shock.
So large that someone doing the mission before you could spoil the ending (that’s the downside).

We had a blast but it was time to move on.
We dropped off our Kimmunicator in the drop box (battery was finally starting to run low) and headed back into the World Showcase...

pipersmom

11-13-2009, 11:42 PM

thecapells

11-13-2009, 11:51 PM

Ohh, that KP mission was totally cool! I keep going back and forth on it because of the time involved, but Piper would totally groove on making something happen like that. Plenty of time to figure it out though. Great pics!

They're only about 1/2 hour each so it's actually not too much time.
I definitely recommend them - we had a blast at each one!

meeko_33785

11-14-2009, 08:33 AM

I think Germany is my favorite out of the missions we've done thus far. The finale is by far the best. So much fun. :thumbsup2

dawnbu40

11-14-2009, 09:30 AM

Nice post about Germany's KP mission! :thumbsup2 That one was one of our favorites too :)

thecapells

11-14-2009, 12:22 PM

I think Germany is my favorite out of the missions we've done thus far. The finale is by far the best. So much fun. :thumbsup2

Nice post about Germany's KP mission! :thumbsup2 That one was one of our favorites too :)

Yeah, it was really cool to activate something in the World Showcase that large for everyone to see.
We literally scared some people who were standing beneath it.
It's a great ending to a fun mission!

thecapells

11-14-2009, 01:00 PM

The World Showcase was now starting to fill up a bit but was still a site to be seen.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009326.jpg

We thought the American Adventure might be a fun show to watch as the kids had never seen it.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009327.jpg

The next one was starting at about 4:45 or so but then we noticed it was 45 minutes long.
We had 5:30 dinner reservations so that would be cutting it close.
Not to mention that X wouldn’t be able to sit that long.
So we weren’t sure what to do now.
Yeah, I couldn’t believe it either.
I had lists in my head of what we could do but X was cranky and Mom was cranky about watching him.
The kids wanted to do more missions of course. Mom didn’t.

So we finally decided that Mom would take X for a boat ride – a relaxing ride for her that hopefully would occupy X.
I would take the kids for one last mission.
We dropped Mom and X off at the Germany boat docks and then headed over to Italy for the Lady and the Tramp topiary shot
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009328.jpg

The kids didn’t want to be in this one so I had the Photopass photographer shoot just me:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009072.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009080.jpg

Then we found the secluded KP Mission kiosk next to the donkey cart and checked in.
Armed with a new Kimmunicator, we bee-lined toward the Orient to battle Monkey Fist.

After a brisk walk to China, we checked in with our buddy Wade.
We were excited to keep our missions rolling but knew this one had to be quick.
The first thing we saw was the awesome Chinese Dragon awaiting us in the lake.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009329.jpg

Then Wade directed us to the back of the pavilion to deal with Monkey Mania.
It seems that the villain Monkey Fist has brought his monkey minions to China in search of the Jade Monkey and all its supernatural powers.
(I don't think there were enough monkeys in that last sentence).
We combed the pavilion, rang the ancient gong, and electronically broke into the Hostile Hostel to eavesdrop on Monkey Fist.
We even had to search the Temple of Heavens for clues to answer some questions.
And all this while the Dragon Legend Acrobats were performing so there were crowds we had to weave through.
The mission was topped off with my favorite Kim Possible video.
The video shows you how adults “get it”, 7-yr olds take some time to "get it", and 5-yr olds just sometimes don’t pay attention.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009330.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009330.flv)

So we saved the world again by rescuing the Jake Monkey.
At that point, Mom called but it was not for congratulations.
She had completed her boat tour of the World Showcase Lagoon and was back in France.
She wanted an ETA as she was already checking in to Chefs de France.
We hung up and took off for Paris in a sprint.
On the way, as I waited for the kids to catch up to my brisk pace, I had to stop for the perennial picture:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009332.jpg

It was a long trip and we were exhausted upon arrival but we made it.
So grab the wine and cheese and join us for dinner.
Bon Appetit!

MrsSpratt

11-14-2009, 01:42 PM

You are SO COOL.

I love seeing the Kim Possible - I think it may be better for grown-ups!

dawnbu40

11-14-2009, 04:19 PM

I love the topiary pics! I'm looking forward to hearing how you liked Chefs de France. We've never eaten there and Caitlin would like to try it in Sept.

pipersmom

11-14-2009, 10:57 PM

Very cool Lady and the Tramp topiary, that's one of our faves. Looking forward to hearing about dinner!

DisneyMom5

11-15-2009, 10:50 AM

:thumbsup2

Great updates!

thecapells

11-15-2009, 08:54 PM

You are SO COOL.

I love seeing the Kim Possible - I think it may be better for grown-ups!

We definitely had fun, and in style! :cool2:

I love the topiary pics! I'm looking forward to hearing how you liked Chefs de France. We've never eaten there and Caitlin would like to try it in Sept.

Coming right up mademoiselle! ;)

Very cool Lady and the Tramp topiary, that's one of our faves. Looking forward to hearing about dinner!

Lady and the Tramp came out pretty cool.
Kinda random that they were thrown into Italy though.
I know Tony's was an Italian restaurant but that's pushing it a bit I think.
I would've expected Pinocchio over here instead...

:thumbsup2

Great updates!

Thanks! Here's some more!

thecapells

11-15-2009, 09:02 PM

Bonjour messieurs et mademoiselles!
Bievenue a Les Chefs de France!
Nous arrivons – wait, on second thought, I should probably not do this whole thing in French.
Let’s try that again…

Hello everyone!
Welcome to Les Chefs de France!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009342.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009343.jpg

We arrived exhausted after saving the world literally half way around the world.
We found Mom and X just getting our table
It was located near the entrance so we sat and each guzzled down a glass of water.
The tables were small and all arranged very close together.
You definitely get to know your neighbors here.
It felt like they decided to add more tables at some point and just did so without regards to personal space.
We ended up with a half booth but we felt as though our elbows could touch our neighbors’ elbows.

After we ordered, a woman with what seemed like a covered cheese tray came by.
She lifted the cover and there was our friend from Ratatouille!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7542.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7543.jpg

Remy – the smallest audio animatronic to date – was moving and squeaking to us right there in the restaurant!
We couldn't understand him, of course, since we were humans and not fellow rats.
We had watched Ratatouille again on the drive from the grandparents since I wanted it to be fresh in everyone’s minds. And it was.
The kids were literally dumbfounded - DD was all giggly, DS was smiling, and X just kept shouting “Remy! Remy!”
I don’t they could tell if he was real or not.
Here’s a video I shot of our encounter:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009333.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009333.flv)

We watched as Remy made his way to the other tables.
Mom and I desperately tried to discover out how the CM was controlling the little rat (and I think Mom figured it out).
All in all, it was well done and worth seeing.
But since we were in a restaurant, we figured we should eat something too.

It was an okay meal – the menu was a bit eclectic for our tastes.
Translation – the kids had some trouble ordering.
They ended up with the Friand au Fromage (cheese pastry puff) for an appetizer.
DD & DS didn’t eat it but X enjoyed it
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009335.jpg

For their entrée, they got the Blanc de Poulet Aux Nouilles (breaded chicken strips served with pasta).
We tried to convince them it was chicken nuggets with butter noodles but they weren’t happy.
They did cheer up when presented with glace (ice cream) for dessert.
Mom ordered soupe a l’oignon gratinee (French Onion Soup) while I had just a salade maison (house salad) for appetiziers.
For dinner, I ordered the Carnard au miel, haricots vert et pommes de terre douce.
Or, in English, the roasted breast of duck and leg confit, French green beans and sweet potato with a spicy, honey sauce.
I gave the leg to Mom but enjoyed the medallions and the breast.
Mom ordered the Demi poulet fermier roti, pommes rissolees et tomate grilee (1/2 of a roasted chicken with rissole potatoes and grilled tomoto).
For dessert, I had the Profiteroles au chocolat (a pastry puff with ice cream and chocolate sauce) and Mom had crème broulee.

All in all, it was pretty good but we wouldn’t rate it top tier.
That is, while the duck medallions and leg were scrumptious, the chicken and sides were very average.
I doubt this will be someplace we return to often but it was a fun adventure and Remy definitely made it an experience.
In fact, I’ve seen since some mouth-watering dishes on the DIS I’d like to try in the future (the briande looks good) so we’ll have to come back someday.
But bottom line: it’s Disney and we all had a good time.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009490.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DSCN7545.jpg

I think our recommendations would be to ask for a circular table (the ½ booths were the ones that felt smushed together).
And get something away from the entrance so Remy doesn’t visit too soon.
I think it would’ve been more fun if he came in the middle of the meal or between courses.
But I think it’s definitely worth trying at least once.
After all, what’s the fun of the World Showcase if you can’t try meals you normally wouldn’t get?

We finished up, had bathroom breaks, and got ready to leave.
But I wanted to take a picture with the fabulous French wine.
I asked a waitress to take a picture of me next to a bottle.
She had a better idea.
She led me over to the largest bottle of champagne you’ve ever seen and then HANDED IT TO ME.
Apparently, she knew how much of a picture dork I am since this was such a great shot!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009341.jpg

After dinner, we headed back out into the pavilion.
DD was in a good mood and wanted pictures next to the pretty perfume topiaries
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009345.jpg

And then she wanted to make a wish in the fountain.
How could I say no?
So, armed with a penny, she made her wishes
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009346.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009348.jpg

I hope they come true.
It was getting dark and late and it had been a long day.
But the atmosphere made for one last great French picture
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009349.jpg

Now it was time to work off our dinner before heading home.
Anyone willing to guess where the kids could unwind, get lost, yet still remain in full view of Mom and Dad?
If not, stay tuned for the answer…

meeko_33785

11-15-2009, 10:26 PM

Nice updates! Isn't Remy just adorable? Thought that he was such a fantastic addition to the Chefs de France experience. Nice to know they're keeping him around.

All7OfUs

11-16-2009, 02:07 AM

Not sure how I could get 3! episodes behind!! Zowie!

You have me perfectly excited to try the KP Missions! I think I will start with Germany, and if it goes well, I'll move on from there. They look like just too much fun!

Too bad they are cramming folks into these restaurants like sardines. But, I guess if there's that high of a demand they are trying to accomodate it. Good business for them, cramped dining experience for us.

Hmmm.. another stumping one for me.

dawnbu40

11-16-2009, 06:57 AM

I love the pics and video of Remy! It looks like you all had fun!

The pics of Rayna at the fountain are adorable and I hope she gets her wish too :wizard:

thecapells

11-16-2009, 08:26 AM

Nice updates! Isn't Remy just adorable? Thought that he was such a fantastic addition to the Chefs de France experience. Nice to know they're keeping him around.

Yeah, he definitely added to the ambiance.
And, honestly, we probably never would've tried Les Chefs if not for Remy so it was good marketing too!

Not sure how I could get 3! episodes behind!! Zowie!

You have me perfectly excited to try the KP Missions! I think I will start with Germany, and if it goes well, I'll move on from there. They look like just too much fun!

Too bad they are cramming folks into these restaurants like sardines. But, I guess if there's that high of a demand they are trying to accomodate it. Good business for them, cramped dining experience for us.

Hmmm.. another stumping one for me.

Since I couldn't post due to the photobucket issue, I wrote the segments and had them waiting.
So when my account reset, you got lots of quick updates!

As for Les Chefs, I think it would be better at one of the non-booth tables as I mentioned.
Hopefully we'll give it another shot next time (but there's so many restaurants and not enough meals!!!)

I love the pics and video of Remy! It looks like you all had fun!

The pics of Rayna at the fountain are adorable and I hope she gets her wish too :wizard:

Yeah, she was pretty adorable at those fountains. :love:
I couldn't resist letting her make a wish and taking lots of photos!

thecapells

11-16-2009, 10:48 PM

We always love to stop on the bridge over the “English Channel”.
The view is awesome and there’s usually a Photopass photographer all set up to catch it.
And since we always tend to go clockwise around the World Showcase, it always tends to be dusk which just enhances the atmosphere of the shots.
But first, one on my camera of course:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009351.jpg

And then the mushy shots.
Hey, it has been 20 years since we met – I figure we deserve it.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009084.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009096.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009102.jpg

Then it was off to the United Kingdom.
Mom was in search of the Mad Hatter Tea she had last year.
She had it during her afternoon tea at the Garden View Lounge in the Grand Floridian but hasn't been able to find it since.
So I grabbed a picture of Mom next to her passion
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009353.jpg

And then she was off to search Twinnings for her prized tea.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009354.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009355.jpg

Meanwhile, I took the kids into the back of the pavilion to let them unwind.
Yup – it was Hedge Maze time!
They love it here and have a blast winding through the paths.
Turns out the British Invasion was just starting so I sat back and listened while the kids ran wild.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009356.jpg

Mom soon joined us with a frown – they didn’t have the Mad Hatter Tea. :sad2:
So if anyone knows where to get some, please let us know!

We headed out of the UK but I had to boost her spirits.
And what better way than a silly picture in her home country of Canada!!!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009361.jpg

Finally it was time to exit the World Showcase for good.
We only had one day but it sure seemed like we covered a lot of ground.
And I think the kids were starting to discover that they have a new favorite park.
But before we go, we have some unfinished business in Future World.
There’s still a “grand and miraculous spaceship” that is calling our name…

dawnbu40

11-17-2009, 06:29 AM

The pics of you and Mom Capell are really cute! Happy Anniversary!

meeko_33785

11-17-2009, 09:32 AM

Nice updates. I've heard a lot about that Mad Hatter tea lately and it sounds great. I don't see myself having afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian, but if you ever find out a place that sells it, please pass it on.

What a great time in World Showcase. Looks like the kids really had a ball.

jmskinner

11-17-2009, 09:38 AM

Great updates. I agree, it is fun finding new foods there in the World. I am craving Biergarten right now, but Jacob doesn't like any of the food, so we end up paying for him even though he doesn't eat.:sad2:

I love that one pic of DD looking at the fountain, the first one. Great shot.:thumbsup2

Did you stop at the other playground?

Is Spaceship Earth coming up?

figment41

11-17-2009, 09:59 AM

disneystore.com search for tea and a wonderland tea variety comes up it includes mad hatter tea. Hope that helps:wizard:

shannn

11-17-2009, 10:04 AM

The bridge shots are always so beautiful! I love stopping there too.

The UK is one of my favorite pavillions. I hope to get to see British Invasion next month and sit and enjoy the sights!

(I'm starting to think 1 day is just not enough to really experience Epcot!)

thecapells

11-17-2009, 09:19 PM

The pics of you and Mom Capell are really cute! Happy Anniversary!

Thank you so much!

Nice updates. I've heard a lot about that Mad Hatter tea lately and it sounds great. I don't see myself having afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian, but if you ever find out a place that sells it, please pass it on.

What a great time in World Showcase. Looks like the kids really had a ball.

See below - looks like we found it!!
Mom will be so happy to find that in her stocking... :yay:

Great updates. I agree, it is fun finding new foods there in the World. I am craving Biergarten right now, but Jacob doesn't like any of the food, so we end up paying for him even though he doesn't eat.:sad2:

I love that one pic of DD looking at the fountain, the first one. Great shot.:thumbsup2

Did you stop at the other playground?

Is Spaceship Earth coming up?

Jacob won't even eat the mac & cheese at Biergarten?
The kids fill up on that and the pretzel bread and have a blast.
DD looks forward to the dancing.

DD was so adorable at those fountains, I couldn't resist the pictures... :love:

Unfortunately, we did not get a chance to check out the other playground.
I knew our time was limited and thought the topiary one would be more fun.
The other seemed very similar to playgrounds around our house.
But where else can you play with Captain Hook and the Crocodile overseeing you? :)

Spaceship Earth? Did we forget that one?
Hmmm, we do have one last attraction to go.... ;)

disneystore.com search for tea and a wonderland tea variety comes up it includes mad hatter tea. Hope that helps:wizard:

AWESOME!!!
Ordering now and hope to fill Mom's stockings!!
She'll be so surprised!! (assuming I can get her to stop reading this)

The bridge shots are always so beautiful! I love stopping there too.

The UK is one of my favorite pavillions. I hope to get to see British Invasion next month and sit and enjoy the sights!

(I'm starting to think 1 day is just not enough to really experience Epcot!)

The only way we could do Epcot in one day is because we were just here in November.
We were able to go through stuff quicker since it was so recent.
Otherwise, I could spend 3-4 days here!! :goodvibes

thecapells

11-17-2009, 09:34 PM

As the sky darkened, our fabulous day began to wind down.
But first, we needed out memento!
We headed over to the camera store right outside Spaceship Earth.
We picked our pose from the Disney VISA Meet & Greet, added a “2009” logo, and voila!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DisneyVisaPic.jpg

A free 5x7 to take home with us – I love this deal – we do it every time!!
There’s an even a nice keepsake envelope
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DisneyVisaCover.jpg

And then it was time for our final attraction of the day: Spaceship Earth.
As usual, we had a blast and enjoyed the way down playing with the video screens.
I even took a video of our future although the audio was pretty poor.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/th_Disney2009362.jpg (http://s381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/?action=view&current=Disney2009362.flv)

I didn’t realize till our next trip that you can simply e-mail yourself the video from the consoles in the post-show area.
That’s much nicer than trying to hold your camera still while bouncing down the hill and keeping focus on the little video screen.
I was able to snag shots of us on the big screen though (albeit blurry shots):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009364.jpg

On the way out, we stopped for final Photopass shots of course!
Since there were none around for EMH, we had to stop now to get our signature EPCOT shots…
First I tried out a border I’ve rarely used
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009105.jpg

And then old faithful!
I love how Tink is spreading pixie dust on Spaceship Earth…
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20Photopass/Photopass2009107.jpg

So, we sadly headed towards the buses and back to All Star Movies.
See ya next time EPCOT!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009365.jpg

As we approached our room, we noticed some friends waiting up for us:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009366.jpg

This was really cute and the kids got such a kick out of it.
Inside, there was some fun for the adults as I found an Anniversary card!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryCard.jpg

Inside was a great picture of Mickey & Minnie
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryInside.jpg

As well as a special Photopass
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryInside2.jpg

The nice thing about the special Photopass is that the Photopass number doubles as a 20% coupon code!
I had already pre-ordered the Photopass CD but I was able to add this discount to the order making it an even better deal!
It was definitely a nice present.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryOffer.jpg

And we got a great shot of Mickey and Minnie!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryPic.jpg

Even the back of the card was festive!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/AnniversaryBack.jpg

So, Mom tucked the kids in and began to take out travelling clothes for tomorrow and pack up.
I headed over the lobby to check out and apply our Disney VISA Rewards points to our room.
The lobby was buzzing as usual and I walked through a balloon archway to get to the desk.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney2009367.jpg

All our paperwork was in order and, sadly, our one day detour was ending.
I got back to room and put all our papers back into the envelope provided:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/WhatWillYouCelebrate.jpg

and then packed it in for the night.
But, before you get too sad – we have some more surprises waiting.
Yes, the next day was our travel day, but we figured we might as well enjoy our morning before hitting the road, right?
After all, we are in Disney and you don’t need a park ticket to have fun!
So, stay tuned for brunch in the wild as we visit someplace we’ve always wanted to check out!

yinyanggirls

11-17-2009, 10:32 PM

As the sky darkened, our fabulous day began to wind down....
and then packed it in for the night.
But, before you get too sad – we have some more surprises waiting.
Yes, the next day was our travel day, but we figured we might as well enjoy our morning before hitting the road, right?
After all, we are in Disney and you don’t need a park ticket to have fun!
So, stay tuned for brunch in the wild as we visit someplace we’ve always wanted to check out!

OMG, you totally got me! I really was getting sad that it was over! Hurray for brunch!

meeko_33785

11-18-2009, 08:17 AM

Wow, what a day! Can't wait to find out what you all did on your last day.

dawnbu40

11-18-2009, 08:26 AM

How nice that you and mom got a little extra magic! :wizard:

You have me stumped as to where you went the last day!

thecapells

11-18-2009, 08:31 AM

OMG, you totally got me! I really was getting sad that it was over! Hurray for brunch!

Yeah, we figured since we were in Disney, leaving a couple of hours later wouldn't kill us.
And if the kids had some fun in the morning, they may even nap and have a more pleasant car trip home!

Wow, what a day! Can't wait to find out what you all did on your last day.

Whew - it was a pretty jam-packed day, wasn't it?
But we had tons of fun!

How nice that you and mom got a little extra magic! :wizard:

You have me stumped as to where you went the last day!

He he.
Here's a hint -we didn't have another park pass but wanted to have a nice brunch and take part in some activities.
And it's somewhere we've been wanting to explore.
Lastly, we thought the kids could get in touch with their WILD side here. ;)

pipersmom

11-18-2009, 09:52 AM

Hooray for brunch! Looking forward to reading :) I'm a bit clueless as to where you're brunching, other than to guess it's in AK.

dawnbu40

11-18-2009, 10:14 AM

I'm guessing Boma at AKL?

thecapells

11-19-2009, 09:34 PM

Hooray for brunch! Looking forward to reading :) I'm a bit clueless as to where you're brunching, other than to guess it's in AK.

Close but no cigar!

I'm guessing Boma at AKL?

DING DING DING!!!

thecapells

11-19-2009, 09:39 PM

We woke and got ready as I packed the minivan.
Then I wanted a picture of me playing with RC outside...
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009369.jpg

But, we weren’t necessarily leaving the world quite yet.
I plugged in our surprise destination into our navigation computer and popped in the iPod with my new Disney playlist.
Just as the African music kicked in, we saw this:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009370.jpg

That’s right, while we had no parks on the agenda today, there was no reason we couldn’t go explore a resort we’ve never been to!
So it was off to the Animal Kingdom Lodge we went!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009371.jpg

We wandered through the lobby and then headed down the stairs for brunch.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009373.jpg

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009374.jpg

It was time for BOMA!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009375.jpg

We’ve heard so many good things about Boma but it’s so out of the way, it’s been hard to get there.
This time, with nothing else on the agenda and the fact that we could drive, it was the perfect fit!
All decked out in our “safari” clothes, we were eager to try this new restaurant!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009377.jpg

We were seated in a nice big booth with a window view.
The restaurant was beautifully themed from the lighting to the bamboo fixtures, you really felt like you were in an African village
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009383.jpg

The buffet stations even looked like little huts
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009382.jpg

The food was fabulous and we had a great selection of the standards (eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, waffles, cereal, etc.).
There was also a nice platter of lox, an omelette station, wonderful pastries, and lots and lots of fruit.
Then there was the African selections:
Brioche (French toast with raisins),
Pap (white corn meal with lots of toppings available),
Bobotie (corn beef, eggs, cream, potato and onion),
and a Sausage and Biscuit Skillet.
I tried both the Bobotie and Sausage/Biscuit Skillet and both were different but really good.
I added some lox and a made-to-order omelette and was really enjoying myself.
Mom and the kids downed their eggs and pastries.
Even X had a blast eating eggs, fruit, and muffins while he played with the bamboo railing. http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009378.jpg

And, to our delight, they had the Jambo Juice we first discovered at Donald’s Safari Breakfast at Tusker House.
This is the nectar of the gods to our family – we LOVE this stuff.
The kids want us to try and figure out how to make it at home.
We figured it’s possible as the hotel we stayed at back in West Palm Beach when visiting the grandparents had something very similar.

Bottom line, we really liked this restaurant but it is really out of the way.
And Tusker House may be a better substitute for breakfast due to the convenience factor.
After we finished, our waiter (who was from Maryland which was odd as we were expecting CM’s native to Africa) came over with a surprise.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009384.jpg

Despite it being breakfast, Disney is all about celebrating.
Along with this enticing dessert plate was a nice Anniversary card.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/BomaAnniversaryCard.jpg

Once again, the CM’s wrote personal greetings inside and it was a nice little touch!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/BomaAnniversaryInside.jpg

Finally, we had our fill and it was time to explore a bit more.
We headed outside and I checked the daily events schedule – I had already had some stuff in mind but wanted to see if there was anything new.
It was, after all, Easter Sunday and we needed an Easter hunt of some sort, right?
Wait to you see what (or who) we hunted!! :goodvibes
Come explore the Lodge with us!

boxmaster

11-19-2009, 10:33 PM

Just found another reason why I need to post more frequently. I can't backquote any of the pics until I have a higher post count. Oh well. Just text it is...

We woke and got ready as I packed the minivan.
Then I wanted a picture of me playing with RC outside...

OK, you're gonna have to make sure RC is still around in 20+ years so that we can get a true comparison of just HOW much alike you and DS REALLY are.

For those regulars out there, when he says anything like "that's my boy," you don't know just how frightening (and, usually in DS' case, cute) that really is. :lmao: Is it "planner" if you're the one doing the planning and "control freak" if you're the one who is having the plan handed to them? :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

All decked out in our “safari” clothes, we were eager to try this new restaurant!

I'm glad I have a little over a year to get a Disneyfied wardrobe to join you guys on your next Disney adventure. (Oh, that reminds me. I *do* have two Disney shirts already. But they are XL t-shirts that go down to MY knees, so they're usually relegated to the side. I'll give you a hint for some off-line guessing: my mom bought one and Amy (I think) bought the other.)

Even X had a blast eating eggs, fruit, and muffins while he played with the bamboo railing.

I still say you should hand X a tin cup and have him run it back and forth for that "let me outta here!" moment. (Now THAT would be adorable. :thumbsup2) I want to see it just once at the house before you and DW finally get rid of the living room gate (which should be pretty soon, I imagine).

Finally, we had our fill and it was time to explore a bit more.
We headed outside and I checked the daily events schedule – I had already had some stuff in mind but wanted to see if there was anything new.
It was, after all, Easter Sunday and we needed an Easter hunt of some sort, right?
Wait to you see what (or who) we hunted!! :goodvibes
Come explore the Lodge with us!

Great pics so far. With the conference-related TR and the TR for the trip you just finished about a week ago, there really won't be much time left for a pre-TR for the 2011 trip.

Hmm... I wonder if having a countdown "clock" for a year+ like you had for this last trip (I'm *sure* you have a pic of that you'll be posting when you get to the TR) is going overboard even for YOU. :laughing:

thecapells

11-19-2009, 10:41 PM

Just found another reason why I need to post more frequently. I can't backquote any of the pics until I have a higher post count. Oh well. Just text it is...

OK, you're gonna have to make sure RC is still around in 20+ years so that we can get a true comparison of just HOW much alike you and DS REALLY are.

For those regulars out there, when he says anything like "that's my boy," you don't know just how frightening (and, usually in DS' case, cute) that really is. :lmao: Is it "planner" if you're the one doing the planning and "control freak" if you're the one who is having the plan handed to them? :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

I'm glad I have a little over a year to get a Disneyfied wardrobe to join you guys on your next Disney adventure. (Oh, that reminds me. I *do* have two Disney shirts already. But they are XL t-shirts that go down to MY knees, so they're usually relegated to the side. I'll give you a hint for some off-line guessing: my mom bought one and Amy (I think) bought the other.)

I still say you should hand X a tin cup and have him run it back and forth for that "let me outta here!" moment. (Now THAT would be adorable. :thumbsup2) I want to see it just once at the house before you and DW finally get rid of the living room gate (which should be pretty soon, I imagine).

Great pics so far. With the conference-related TR and the TR for the trip you just finished about a week ago, there really won't be much time left for a pre-TR for the 2011 trip.

Hmm... I wonder if having a countdown "clock" for a year+ like you had for this last trip (I'm *sure* you have a pic of that you'll be posting when you get to the TR) is going overboard even for YOU. :laughing:

Hey J!
Glad you finally posted!!
We're definitely gonna have to get you some Disney attire for you to join us next time around!
We'll start looking now!

As for planning, I'm grooming DS so he can help me plan the next trip.
You should've seen him with the map this past time.
He was oblivious to the world once we handed to him.
It was like the holy grail and he made sure to have one of each park.
I was so proud when he told a CM he no longer needed it because it's "in here" as he pointed to his head.
Now that's my boy!!! :hug:

All7OfUs

11-19-2009, 11:12 PM

meeko_33785

11-19-2009, 11:58 PM

Ahh Boma! Glad to hear that you really enjoyed it since it's one of my favorites. Their breakfast is great and their dinner is fantastic. :cloud9:

dawnbu40

11-20-2009, 06:17 AM

We've never been to Boma but it looks like we should try it sometime! I'm looking forward to hearing about the rest of your Easter!

thecapells

11-20-2009, 07:43 AM

Well, that looks like just a positively wonderful time at Bomas! YOur pics are fabulous and I'm just thrilled you found some extra fun things to do on Easter Sunday!!

It certainly IS a beautiful resort isn't?!!!

We really enjoyed Boma and had alot of fun exploring the Lodge afterwards (more on that later).

Ahh Boma! Glad to hear that you really enjoyed it since it's one of my favorites. Their breakfast is great and their dinner is fantastic. :cloud9:

I've heard the dinner is great too.
But it is hard to get to with the little ones.
Maybe after a visit to Animal Kingdom on our next trip we'll check it out.
I hear Jiko is a great dinner locale as well though - decisions, decisions... :goodvibes

We've never been to Boma but it looks like we should try it sometime! I'm looking forward to hearing about the rest of your Easter!

Definitely give Boma a shot - it was a really good brunch.
I only wish AKL was somehow attached to Animal Kingdom so it was easier to get to...

HilJoy14

11-23-2009, 01:42 AM

luckylady

11-23-2009, 08:23 AM

Great breakfast there. AKL is a great place to stay. Looking forward to reading on how the kids liked the animals.

thecapells

11-23-2009, 07:56 PM

The juice is POG (pineapple orange guava). It's available in the juice case at supermarkets. I first discovered it in Hawaii (friends raved about it) and then found out it's available here. I'm sure there are variations in brands, but that will get you pointed in the right direction. It is good, isn't it? :)

Wow - I'll have to look up POG.
The kids would love to get that at home!!

Great breakfast there. AKL is a great place to stay. Looking forward to reading on how the kids liked the animals.

Stay tuned...

pipersmom

11-23-2009, 07:58 PM

thecapells

11-23-2009, 07:59 PM

After Boma, we stopped at the restrooms but I couldn’t resist taking a picture of these light fixtures.
They were too cool
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009387.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009389.jpg

Then we headed to the back staircase – very picturesque BTW
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009392.jpg

The backside of the Animal Kingdom Lodge is what you might expect.
Breathtaking!!!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009397.jpg

And that’s not even including the wonderful views.
But we had a mission so sightseeing would be for later.
We headed out to Arusha Rock to meet the CM’s.
We arrived right on time (10:30) and a CM was waiting there anxious to start.
It seemed that not many families enjoyed the wonderful activities here and he was excited someone showed up.
Anyhow, it was time for Animal Tracking (it was Easter after all and we need to search for something if not traditional eggs!)

The CM started by testing the kids’ eagle eyes.
They were instructed to find the “Hidden Mickey” in the giraffe.
That proved no problem at all – can you spot it?
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009405.jpg

DD points to the answer
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009396.jpg

Then we geared up.
DD was given the speaker base which would beep more quickly as we approached our target.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009395.jpg

DS was given an antennae-looking device which would pick up the RFID on our target – Donald Duck.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009398.jpg

The CM left us here and went to hide Donald.
Then he set us off in a high tech version of Hide ‘N’ Seek.
So cool!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009399.jpg

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009400.jpg

It took some time but the kids eventually found that slippery fowl (who was hiding in the bushes nearby).
Can you find him?
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009401.jpg

The CM did this with the kids several times and they had a blast.
Meanwhile Mom took X on an excursion of their own.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009404.jpg

Finally, the kids were given little totem charms on a chain for their hard work.
They had a blast and it was fun just wandering around Arusha Rock with the wonderful savannah views.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009408.jpg

We definitely could not leave without some animal watching.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009410.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009407.jpg

And, of course, some scenic pictures with the kids wearing their totems…
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009411.jpg

And then of the AKL itself:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009414.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009415.jpg

After enough animal watching (not for us, mind you, but the kids were getting bored), we headed inside.
Stay tuned for our inside adventures throughout the Animal Kingdom Lodge…

thecapells

11-23-2009, 08:13 PM

Ohh..your brunch sounded reaaaaally good! May have to look into that :) Looking forward to hearing about AKL and the hunt..for hidden Mickeys, maybe? And I'm with the PP on getting a pic of your son in RC in twenty years, that would be too funny!

Ha!
You must've posted right as I was writing the last update.
Rather than Mickeys, we were in search of Hidden Donald!
:rotfl:

And brunch was awesome!! Definitely recommended!!

I'll have to make a note to take that RC pic of the boys in 20 years and compare them!
That's a pretty funny idea.

pipersmom

11-23-2009, 08:17 PM

Okay, that finding Donald thing was way too cool! I would have fun doing that, lol. Boma is nudging higher up on the list :) Great pics too!

thecapells

11-23-2009, 08:27 PM

Okay, that finding Donald thing was way too cool! I would have fun doing that, lol. Boma is nudging higher up on the list :) Great pics too!

Yeah, I was surprised noone else was there.
If I stayed at a Deluxe, I would be taking the kids to ALL the activities!!
Then again, why bother paying for the deluxe rate when you can do the activities anyway!! ;)

But, the kids had a blast searching around Arusha Rock.
And it was really pretty.
And that was the outside - wait to you get a glimpse of the fun inside!!

yinyanggirls

11-23-2009, 11:24 PM

The backside of the Animal Kingdom Lodge is what you might expect.
Breathtaking!!!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009397.jpg

The lodge is gorgeous! I hadn't looked at pics of it before. Thanks for taking so many of the details!

All7OfUs

11-24-2009, 12:43 AM

Wonderful stuff!! See you can have a great time even without an expensive park ticket!!

Obviously, the kids are having a blast (even X), and the pix of AKL are stunning- fun for mom and dad too!

Excellent update!:yay:

dawnbu40

11-24-2009, 05:43 AM

Beautiful pics of the AKL! :thumbsup2 All 3 kids look like they had a great time and I love how serious Rayna looks as the CM is talking to her. She obviously knew she had an important job :goodvibes

meeko_33785

11-24-2009, 08:44 AM

Looks like the kids has a blast searching for Donald. I'm always amazed at the number of little extras that the resorts put on.

thecapells

11-26-2009, 12:10 AM

The lodge is gorgeous! I hadn't looked at pics of it before. Thanks for taking so many of the details!

No problem.
If you can't tell, I love taking pics!!

Wonderful stuff!! See you can have a great time even without an expensive park ticket!!

Obviously, the kids are having a blast (even X), and the pix of AKL are stunning- fun for mom and dad too!

Excellent update!:yay:

To me, WDW has always been about the details and theming.
You can get rides anywhere but the "magic" is pure Disney.
And the resorts are full of it! :wizard:

Beautiful pics of the AKL! :thumbsup2 All 3 kids look like they had a great time and I love how serious Rayna looks as the CM is talking to her. She obviously knew she had an important job :goodvibes

It was actually a really cool little kids activity.
I was even excited to watch them!

Looks like the kids has a blast searching for Donald. I'm always amazed at the number of little extras that the resorts put on.

Yeah - they really enjoyed it!
Now on to the inside!!

thecapells

11-26-2009, 12:12 AM

We made our way back into the lodge and had to stop for a photo op.
The back stairs are really neat at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
From the doormats…
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009416.jpg

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009419.jpg

to the grand stairs themselves
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009420.jpg

I especially like the stairwells.
At Animal Kingdom Lodge, a stairwell simply doesn’t just have stairs.
Why, there’s a seating area complete with an awesome view of the Savannah!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009418.jpg

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009426a.jpg

X had a blast running from chair to chair sitting and posing
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009428.jpg

From there, we headed back to the lobby.
I thought this sculpture was quite interesting
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009430.jpg

And I love the layout of the lobby
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009432a.jpg

We decided to wander the halls and check out the rooms.
Can you spot the Hidden Mickeys in the carpet?
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009433.jpg
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009434.jpg

Then it was time to get some height.
Against Mom’s wishes we headed across the “rope” bridge in the lobby for a great shot!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009436.jpg

And then a shot of the bridge itself
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009443.jpg

From here, you can get nice pictures of the lobby light fixtures
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009444.jpg

And great shots of the pool area
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009445.jpg http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009447.jpg

I love the camouflage on the 1st floor roofs – Disney doesn’t forget a thing!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009446.jpg

Next it was time for some shopping and snacks.
Stay tuned as our hike through Africa continues…

boxmaster

11-26-2009, 12:57 AM

I especially like the stairwells.
At Animal Kingdom Lodge, a stairwell simply doesn’t just have stairs.
Why, there’s a seating area complete with an awesome view of the Savannah!

Wow. What came to mind with the pic of DS, DD, and X was the Kings and Queens of Narnia seated on their thrones. :wizard: Too funny.

Then it was time to get some height.
Against Mom’s wishes we headed across the “rope” bridge in the lobby for a great shot!

DS over a head taller than DD? He just had to stand on his toes to look over the rope rather than bend down slightly like DS to look through, didn't he? :cool2: Probably the last time you'll see that sort of height differential in those two. :rolleyes1 (Still amazing how close in size they are given the age difference. :scared1: )

And great shots of the pool area

Oh, those look good right about now. :beach: Even though it's not THAT cold right now, it's still a far cry from lounging at poolside in 80+ degree weather.

Next it was time for some shopping and snacks.
Stay tuned as our hike through Africa continues…

Looking forward to it. :yay:

boxmaster

11-26-2009, 01:02 AM

Then we geared up.
DD was given the speaker base which would beep more quickly as we approached our target.

DS was given an antennae-looking device which would pick up the RFID on our target – Donald Duck.

The CM left us here and went to hide Donald.
Then he set us off in a high tech version of Hide ‘N’ Seek.
So cool!

They kinda look like the people running the audio on some of my old movie shoots. They'd get a kick out of doing that, too. Is the ADR/sound department in MGM Studios (sorry, Disney Hollywood Studios, I guess) still around? I think the kids would get a big kick out of doing that, come to think of it. :cool1:

thecapells

11-26-2009, 11:19 PM

Wow. What came to mind with the pic of DS, DD, and X was the Kings and Queens of Narnia seated on their thrones. :wizard: Too funny.

That is pretty funny.
I hadn't thought of that.

DS over a head taller than DD? He just had to stand on his toes to look over the rope rather than bend down slightly like DS to look through, didn't he? :cool2:

DS has shot up a bit - he actually has a couple of inches on her now.

They kinda look like the people running the audio on some of my old movie shoots. They'd get a kick out of doing that, too. Is the ADR/sound department in MGM Studios (sorry, Disney Hollywood Studios, I guess) still around? I think the kids would get a big kick out of doing that, come to think of it. :cool1:

Nah, DHS is no longer a working studio in any sense.
Shame, really - it was fun back then - especially watching the Animation Studio and the people really working in there.

All7OfUs

11-27-2009, 10:29 AM

I"m so glad I have at least a couple of meals planned here; it's simply breathtaking from what I can tell! Can't wait to see it for myself!!

thecapells

11-28-2009, 08:14 PM

I"m so glad I have at least a couple of meals planned here; it's simply breathtaking from what I can tell! Can't wait to see it for myself!!

It's a pain to get to but it definitely is worth seeing at least once.
And there's more to come!

thecapells

11-28-2009, 10:10 PM

After some exploring, it was time for some shopping.
We hadn’t purchased any souvenirs from our one-day detour and thought the Lodge would be a perfect place to do so.
So we headed over to Zawadi – the Animal Kingdom Lodge gift shop.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009453a.jpg

In no time, we had two safari guides ready to explore:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009450.jpg

http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009451.jpg

I guess it’s hard to resist the “call of the wild!”
Since it was such a short trip and we were just here a couple of months ago,
we allowed the kids just some small souvenirs.
DD had fun picking out gems to fill up a small bag (she was soooo excited).
DS added to his Disney Racers collection with a Goofy car (he has quite the collection now).
And X got small PVC figures of Mickey and Donald in safari gear.
Mom and I checked out some shirts but ended up passing.
But we were surprised when the CM saw our button and presented us with a Tinker Bell pin for our anniversary.
While we’re not pin collectors, this was still a really nice touch.
Before leaving, I took a picture of the awesome light behind the cash register.
How cool is this 3-D sculpture of the Lion King?
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009452.jpg

After our shopping excursion, we wandered a bit more through the Lodge.
We came across another interesting aspect – the fire pit.
There, amongst the walkway is a big gated fire pit in the middle of the lodge.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009454.jpg

It would seem very random if this were not the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
But here, it just seems to fit in.
Along our way, we also stumbled across some cool artwork including some clothes on the wall:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009455.jpg

Next stop – we headed back outside and across the Lodge to the Mara.
With the time getting late (and one meal remaining on our Dining Plan), we thought some food to go was in order.

The Mara is a nice little counter service restaurant.
The first half looks like a cafeteria or food court.
The seating area is much more pleasant.
The walls are painted with animals in the African wild.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009456.jpg

We sat here for a spell, used the restrooms and packed up.
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009460.jpg

Then we grabbed our food and headed out.
I ordered the falafel pita and french fries with a bottle of Coke (we were allowed bottles with our meal which was very cool).
Mom had the Fried Shrimp Platter with a bottle of iced tea.
The kids each had macaroni and cheese and we had zebra domes for dessert.
The CM’s bagged it all up and we headed for the car.
We ended up eating the meals about an hour later on our drive and they were really good.
I very much enjoyed my falafel pita – it was a perfect handheld sandwich for the drive.
The kids loved their mac and Mom thought the shrimp was actually pretty good (although it was a bit cold by the time she got to it).

However, before we headed out of the World, we had one more yummy stop to make.
We had to visit the Captain!
Any guesses to our final destination?

WrightFamily06

11-29-2009, 11:47 AM

Great update :) Loved the shopping pictures , sounds like everyone got a nice little souvenir . The food from the Mara sounded very yummy , have never ate there but have heard very good things about the food !

I'm guessing you are going to Captain Cooks at the Poly for some more yummy food ?

thecapells

11-29-2009, 01:15 PM

meeko_33785

11-29-2009, 03:43 PM

I knew it had to be Dole Whips! :laughing: Too bad the report is almost over though.

thecapells

11-29-2009, 04:36 PM

I knew it had to be Dole Whips! :laughing: Too bad the report is almost over though.

But of course!
And don't worry about the end - there's 2 more reports coming on the heels of this one!! :goodvibes

thecapells

12-01-2009, 09:22 PM

After grabbing our goodies to go from The Mara, we climbed back into the minivan for the long drive home.
But I had one more trick up my sleeve…
There was one more detour left!
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009463.jpg

Since we are addicted to Dole Whip Floats, we thought we’d grab one for the road.
And I remember reading on the DIS that there was a counter service at the Poly that could oblige.
We parked and I ran in searching for Captain Cook’s. http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009462.jpg

And there, standing before was the amazing machine itself.
Self-serve Dole Whips.
Mmmmmmmmmm.

I quickly got on-line and ordered 3 Dole Whips and a Mickey Bar with our remaining snack credits.
The cashier promptly handed me 3 cups with which to fill with pineapple goodness.
As I began calculating the best way to fill the cup to get the most Dole Whip I could, I reached the majestic machine itself.
How cool would it be to have one of these at home?
Unfortunately, it can’t make a Dole Whip Float but I’d settle for a Dole Whip itself.
And then, I saw the sign…

“Out of Order”

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
I headed back to the cashier confused.
“Oh yeah, the machine is broken.”
And I thought to myself – “then why did you just sell me THREE Dole Whips?!?!?!?!?”
Ugh.
She suggested I go grab any other snack items so I got 2 more Mickey Bars and a Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich for Mom.
I headed back to the car dejected.
So much for my last surprise.

The interesting thing is that the kids were ecstatic to get Mickey Bars.
And I love me a good Mickey Bar as well.
Honestly, it was probably easier to eat while driving as well:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009465.jpg

And the kids didn’t complain
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009466.jpg

Even Mom enjoyed her Mickey Sandwich (and you can even glimpse the sleeping X in the background):
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009467.jpg

After our Mickey Bars and Sandwiches, we had our lunch from the Mara (yes, I know – very backwards).

The ride home was uneventful and we discussed Disney alot.
And of course, we watched Disney movies on the DVD player while eating our healthy snacks (we're not HORRIBLE parents after all). ;)
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009469.jpg

All in all, it was a great trip.
The smiles sum up the experience.
Which one smiled bigger - DS or his Pooh Bear?
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/Disney%202009%20AKL/Disney2009470.jpg

Several days after we got home, Disney sent me a free gift.
A Desktop image which I now see everytime I look at my laptop.
If anyone would like to Disney-ize their technology as well, here you go:
http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo257/thecapells/Disney%202009/DisneyCelebration.jpg

And the following weekend, our resident Brickmaster (DS) made Spaceship Earth and then Germany (complete with Kim Possible finale) out of lego.
I made a video of him walking through each attraction but I’m having issues uploading them – sorry about that.

Anyway, that’s about it for this report.
But don’t fret, a month later I returned solo to the World for a conference and I have lots more stories to tell!
Hop on over to:
No Work and All Play – Disney on the Company’s Dime! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34531554#post34531554)

and we can start all over again!