We went belly up at the Dolphin! Fairy quest 12/16 [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

karajeboo

09-29-2009, 12:21 PM

So Daddy was heading out for his annual golf trip with his boys, so the first thing I did was hop online and check out room rates for Ally and I to have our own weekend!

But I tried something different this time. Since we have passes, and I was checking out room only rates, I hit Expedia...... "dot commmmmmmm!"

And what I saw amazed me! We could stay at the Dolphin for the same price as a value resort. And since we love Epcot and DHS, and Dolphin has boat transportation to both, this seemed like a no brainer!

Right after I booked the Dolphin for $99/night (yes, $99/night!!!) for just Saturday night, I got a coupon from Expedia..... "dot commmmmmm!" for $50 off two nights or longer. So my happy little fingers called Expedia...... "dot commmmmmm" and added Friday night to our stay - so we are now averaging $75/night. Yes, $75/night for an Epcot resort!!!!

Ally and I did the happy dance :banana: while Jeff did the :sad2:.

Next up was booking a couple of ADRs for Ally and I. Now since I only booked this about 6 weeks out, we were severely limited. AND it's the first weekend of F&W at Epcot, and free dining is going on. Whew! All that adds up to a lot of people making ADRs.

But never fear! My happy fingers were at it again! Dialing 407-WDW-DINE, and pulling up online reservations.

I was able to snag CP for a late lunch on Sunday, and afternoon tea at GF. This is what I was most excited about - since it's a mother/daughter weekend, what better way to celebrate than with our pinkies out, sippling tea in our big floppy hats?

Just for the record, YES we did stick out our pinkies (which I suppose is the best of the fingers to stick out?), and YES we did wear big floppy hats! But more on that later!

Then I get a call from my DIS bud Ellen (podsnel) that she and her DH would be in Epcot on Sunday and would we like to meet up with them? Well, hello!!!!! I'm all about a DISmeet while in Disney! And no Jeff tagging along to say :sad2: makes it even better!

So now that we have scored a resort in prime location, at a killer rate, and two ADRs for restaurants where we have never eaten before..... all we have to do now is wait. And wait.........

Up next, we're on our way!!!!

DizzyErin

09-29-2009, 01:36 PM

I'm here, waiting for all updates ;)
Hope you and Miss Ally had a good one

CRdisMom

09-29-2009, 03:35 PM

wating for more on the FF&W and the meet with ellen

MAGICFOR2

09-30-2009, 08:54 AM

Checking in- I'm looking forward to your stories!

Lovin Life

09-30-2009, 09:36 PM

Here we are getting our sparkle on at DTD on our first night!

You both look so cute!! popcorn::

More, more!......

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 10:48 AM

I'm definitely joining along on this one! :thumbsup2

Thanx! It should be fun!

I'm here, waiting for all updates ;)
Hope you and Miss Ally had a good one

Even a bad day at Disney is better than a good day anywhere else! :goodvibes

wating for more on the FF&W and the meet with ellen

Only about 15 minutes with Ellen but it was great to meet Pods!

Checking in- I'm looking forward to your stories!

And you KNOW I've got stories! :rotfl2:

You both look so cute!! popcorn::

More, more!......

Well, yes, yes we are cute!!!! ;)

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 11:12 AM

Finally, the big day arrived. Now no matter how many times we go to WDW for a day, a weekend, or a week, it NEVER gets old! There is always something new for us to try, whether it be a new resort, new restaurant, attraction, whatever!

And this trip was no exception!

So I picked Ally up at the bus stop and we were gone!

We arrived at the Dolphin around 6pm and right away, I was lost.

The sign said "Valet Parking" and pointed to the right. Well, I didn't want to valet park in case I wanted to drive somewhere - after all, we were hopping all over the place this trip and I thought it might be easier than a lot of bus transfers.

The sign said "Self Parking" and pointed to the left. So I went to the left and couldn't for the life of me figure out what to do next because all the parking lots said "Valet Parking Only!" So after driving in circles a couple of times, nearly taking out a Disney bus, then driving the wrong way down a one way road, finally thinking I was supposed to park at Universal......

I said to heck with it and just parked my car in front of the check in area and got out.

The only bad part about travelling alone with Ally is that she's only 8 so she has to remain with me at all times. No, "you wait here and I"ll be right back." And that definitely presents a problem at times.

So here I am illegally parked.... :rolleyes1 and we were off to check in.

My first thought upon entering was.... Well this is a nice HOTEL. Not resort. Because at Disney they are all resorts. There ain't no stinkin hotels at Disney!!!!!

And it was a nice HOTEL. But considering it was owned by Westin, I did NOT think it was a nice Westin. More on that later.

We were not greeted by CMs, we were greeted by HOTEL employees. Nice enough, but sadly, not magical. Maybe it was the name tag? It didn't say Walt Disney World..... :sad1:

Now for the drum roll please....... I booked a cheap cheap cheap room, would I get my usual upgrade???? You'll find out soon enough.....

AFter we got our room key, it was off to the car to try to find the self parking area. But I am NOT a man, so I asked. And yes, it was halfway to Universal. Seriously.

So Ally and I found a space somewhere between Spiderman and Dueling Dragons, and got our luggage out. Luckily, we didn't pack much. Two little rolling suitcases, plus my laptop and another bad with snacks and goodies in it. Oh, yeah, and we each had a backpack.

OK, OK, so we packed too much!!!!!!

So as we schlepped our way back to the resort, crossing I-4 in at least 3 places, we finally made it up to our room. 8th floor, gotta be an upgrade, right?

You tell me!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin5.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin6.jpg

CHECK OUT THAT VIEW!!!! NOT! :rotfl2: Apparently the Westin HOTEL employees didn't get the memo..... Kara gets free upgrades!

The room was nice and comfortable, well appointed, but..... no...... Mickey!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin8.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin7.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin9.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin4.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin3.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin2.jpg

Now I told y'all about the $99 deal, right? WRONG! When I checked in I was shown a special daily deal for $9.99/day. It included unlimited high speed internet, unlimited local calls, and some long distance calls. As well as TWO, yes TWO free bottles of water per day. Wow! Who wouldn't want to pay $9.99/day for TWO, yes TWO free bottles of water!!!!

Well, I didn't, that's for sure! But guess what? The rate I secured, you know that "killer" rate? Yeah, by now it's killing me!!! Because I was REQUIRED to take this special daily deal each day. So now my rate is $109.99 each day. Still a good rate, right?

Oh, did I mention the $9/day self parking? That rate is now nearly $120/day. Still a good rate, right? Hmmmm, beginning to wonder......

BUT.... I've got a Westin Heavenly Bed to sleep in - btw, definitely the most comfy bed in all of Disney! :cloud9:

Well, enough of enjoying the view from my room.... time to head to DTD for dinner!!!

On the bus, making our way to our first Disney experience of the trip!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTD2.jpg

Again, we're some sparkly gals!!! Besides, Pam said we were cute so I had to post it again! Who knows, I might include this pic in every post!!! :confused3

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTD1.jpg

Up next, Earl of Sandwich and some DTD shopping!!!!

Lovin Life

10-01-2009, 01:11 PM

OK, OK, so we packed too much!!!!!!

Ya think?! Really - I too, am an overpacker. Because of baggage fees, I am trying not to be, but this trip I have to pack our Airborne, medical masks and Netti Pot!:rotfl: Seriously. Guess I am a self-confessed overpacker/germaphobe...

Again, we're some sparkly gals!!! Besides, Pam said we were cute so I had to post it again! Who knows, I might include this pic in every post!!! :confused3

You are cute, sparkly gals!:cutie:

At least they had Starbucks in your room!:thumbsup2

Did you take pics of some of the people you encountered on this trip?! Hee, hee. Enquiring minds are wanting to know!:confused3

prncess674

10-01-2009, 01:27 PM

My first thought upon entering was.... Well this is a nice HOTEL. Not resort. Because at Disney they are all resorts. There ain't no stinkin hotels at Disney!!!!!

And it was a nice HOTEL. But considering it was owned by Westin, I did NOT think it was a nice Westin. More on that later.I am perplexed by your dissatisfaction of the Dolphin. It is not Disney owned and you are correct Mickey Mouse isn't dripping everywhere but it would certainly count as a resort by any standards. I can't believe you think that staying at a Disney Value is better. You get a full service hotel with top notch restaurants, grotto pools, hot tubs, interior corridors and room service.

Now for the drum roll please....... I booked a cheap cheap cheap room, would I get my usual upgrade???? You'll find out soon enough.....
So as we schlepped our way back to the resort, crossing I-4 in at least 3 places, we finally made it up to our room. 8th floor, gotta be an upgrade, right?

You tell me!!!!Did your room confirmation at booking say a room with a view? Are you an SPG platinum who is guaranteed an upgrade if available? Did you use SPG points to upgrade? Did you pay an upgrade fee? Once again I am perplexed why you believe why you were due an upgraded view based on a very low rate?

Now I told y'all about the $99 deal, right? WRONG! When I checked in I was shown a special daily deal for $9.99/day. It included unlimited high speed internet, unlimited local calls, and some long distance calls. As well as TWO, yes TWO free bottles of water per day. Wow! Who wouldn't want to pay $9.99/day for TWO, yes TWO free bottles of water!!!!

Well, I didn't, that's for sure! But guess what? The rate I secured, you know that "killer" rate? Yeah, by now it's killing me!!! Because I was REQUIRED to take this special daily deal each day. So now my rate is $109.99 each day. Still a good rate, right?

Oh, did I mention the $9/day self parking? That rate is now nearly $120/day. Still a good rate, right? Hmmmm, beginning to wonder......
Did you not read that these fees are clearly posted on the website? I don't think they were pulling a fast one.

http://www.swandolphin.com/rates/index.html

* Rates are per room, per night based on rate schedule availability and do not include the mandatory Resort Service Package, daily parking fees (if applicable), applicable taxes or gratuities. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations or for groups.

Resort Service Package is $10 + tax per day and includes:

Up to 60 minutes free local telephone calls, toll free and credit card access calls
(.10 cents per minute after 60 minutes)
20 minutes of domestic long distance per day
Unlimited access to the resort’s health club facilities
In room high-speed Internet access
2 bottles of water daily

katierae81

10-01-2009, 01:33 PM

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 01:36 PM

I am perplexed by your dissatisfaction of the Dolphin. It is not Disney owned and you are correct Mickey Mouse isn't dripping everywhere but it would certainly count as a resort by any standards. I can't believe you think that staying at a Disney Value is better. You get a full service hotel with top notch restaurants, grotto pools, hot tubs, interior corridors and room service.

Did your room confirmation at booking say a room with a view? Are you an SPG platinum who is guaranteed an upgrade if available? Did you use SPG points to upgrade? Did you pay an upgrade fee? Once again I am perplexed why you believe why you were due an upgraded view based on a very low rate?

Did you not read that these fees are clearly posted on the website? I don't think they were pulling a fast one.

http://www.swandolphin.com/rates/index.html

* Rates are per room, per night based on rate schedule availability and do not include the mandatory Resort Service Package, daily parking fees (if applicable), applicable taxes or gratuities. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations or for groups.

Resort Service Package is $10 + tax per day and includes:

Up to 60 minutes free local telephone calls, toll free and credit card access calls
(.10 cents per minute after 60 minutes)
20 minutes of domestic long distance per day
Unlimited access to the resort’s health club facilities
In room high-speed Internet access
2 bottles of water daily

Everything in my TRs is said tongue in cheek. I'm a Disney addict who loves things "dripping" with Mickey Mouse!

No, I don't think that a value resort is "better" than the Dolphin, but it's definitely more Disney to me.

If you've ever read any of my other TRs you would know that its a joke because I just seem to get upgraded most every trip.

And again, I was not dissatisfied by my stay, just a bit perplexed by certain things. I've stayed at several Westin's in large cities and I found this hotel to be beneath the Westin standards. Maybe it's just due for an upgrade but my room was far noisier than I would have expected, as well as some other little things.

As for the resort service package, I find this comical. They quote a room rate, and then add this extra package as "mandatory." Never heard of that before...... Kind of like saying the swan boats are $15/hour and you must take at least an hour/day. Why not just include that package in the room rate and advertise free wireless internet in every room?

But no, I'm not upset by the Dolphin, per se. I'm just having fun with my TR, as I do with all my TRs. Would I stay there again? The jury's still out on that one.

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 01:37 PM

Sheesh...does someone own Westin stock or something? :sad2:

:rotfl2: I just don't think she knows my humor yet...... And judging by her comments, I don't think she will read any further!!! Oh, well, to each his own, I guess!

katierae81

10-01-2009, 01:40 PM

:rotfl2: I just don't think she knows my humor yet...... And judging by her comments, I don't think she will read any further!!! Oh, well, to each his own, I guess!

I will tell you what I told my DH lastnight...everyone seems to be suffering from Dips**t-itis lately.:lmao:

katierae81

10-01-2009, 01:41 PM

Oh yeah, I also noticed your Buckeyes shirt...where in Ohio are you originally from?

prncess674

10-01-2009, 01:45 PM

Sheesh...does someone own Westin stock or something? :sad2:No, but I am an SPG Platinum who always seems perplexed by persons checking in in front of me who deem themselves worthy of a free upgrade. Why does everyone assume they should get something for nothing. SPG sells a host of rooms and if you are going to be disappointed with a room then don't book it. Book and pay for the minimum room you would accept.

Everything in my TRs is said tongue in cheek. I'm a Disney addict who loves things "dripping" with Mickey Mouse!

No, I don't think that a value resort is "better" than the Dolphin, but it's definitely more Disney to me.

If you've ever read any of my other TRs you would know that its a joke because I just seem to get upgraded most every trip.

And again, I was not dissatisfied by my stay, just a bit perplexed by certain things. I've stayed at several Westin's in large cities and I found this hotel to be beneath the Westin standards. Maybe it's just due for an upgrade but my room was far noisier than I would have expected, as well as some other little things.

As for the resort service package, I find this comical. They quote a room rate, and then add this extra package as "mandatory." Never heard of that before...... Kind of like saying the swan boats are $15/hour and you must take at least an hour/day. Why not just include that package in the room rate and advertise free wireless internet in every room?

But no, I'm not upset by the Dolphin, per se. I'm just having fun with my TR, as I do with all my TRs. Would I stay there again? The jury's still out on that one.As an SPG Platinum I am sure that SPG is providing services commensurate with the tough economic times.

Resort fees are common at just about every beach/ski resort I have ever stayed at in the Hilton and SPG chains. Downtown hotels do not usually impose resort fees.
I will tell you what I told my DH lastnight...everyone seems to be suffering from Dips**t-itis lately.:lmao:Have a magical day too! Do you use that potty mouth around your kids, I am sure that is a great example :eek:

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 01:57 PM

Oh yeah, I also noticed your Buckeyes shirt...where in Ohio are you originally from?

I went to high school in Westerville (outside Columbus), and Miami University (in Ohio!!!). My folks live in the Canton area now..... Go Buckeyes!!!!

No, but I am an SPG Platinum who always seems perplexed by persons checking in in front of me who deem themselves worthy of a free upgrade. Why does everyone assume they should get something for nothing. SPG sells a host of rooms and if you are going to be disappointed with a room then don't book it. Book and pay for the minimum room you would accept.

As an SPG Platinum I am sure that SPG is providing services commensurate with the tough economic times.

Resort fees are common at just about every beach/ski resort I have ever stayed at in the Hilton and SPG chains. Downtown hotels do not usually impose resort fees.
Have a magical day too! Do you use that potty mouth around your kids, I am sure that is a great example :eek:

First of all, no snarky comments on MY TR!!! Save it for someone else's, like podsnel, or Alan Renfroe!!! Just kidding guys!!! :lmao:

As for the free upgrade, I didn't ask, nor have I EVER requested a free upgrade. It's just that our last 3 or 4 stays in Disney we have gotten room upgrades, even a resort upgrade one time!!! So when people read my TRs I think we all kind of laugh at whether or not I got "my" free upgrade.

And I knew what to expect staying at the Dolphin or Swan. I knew it wouldn't be so Disneyfied. But there were definitely some things that I did NOT expect from a Westin property. Like no vending machines ANYWHERE! I had to order from the "personal pantry" to get a diet coke! Just silly things like that......

prncess674

10-01-2009, 02:07 PM

But there were definitely some things that I did NOT expect from a Westin property. Like no vending machines ANYWHERE! I had to order from the "personal pantry" to get a diet coke! Just silly things like that......I was just reading up on the "personal pantry" and thought this was a fabulous idea that I wish more hotels would implement. I love being able to stock the mini fridge with snacks and drinks that I know my family would eat at reasonable prices! I plan on stocking my and my parent's room with snacks. No needing to yell, "put down that $8 mini bar Coca-cola."

http://www.swandolphin.com/pdf/pantrymenu.pdf

I guess I think that vending machines remind me a Holiday Inn and frankly have never gone looking for one at a hotel/resort. The pantry prices are quite reasonable and if I don't have to fumble for quarters or haul snacks up to the room I will pay these reasonable prices.

Debbie6221

10-01-2009, 02:59 PM

katierae81

10-01-2009, 03:07 PM

prncess674

10-01-2009, 03:08 PM

prncess674 you're just cracking us all up because it's just a fun TR and you are posting like you are the Westin's lawyer! It's just funny...everyone is entitled to like or not like any place in the world they want for whatever reasons......
Your TR may be "just for fun" but blasting a hotel in a public forum could give someone the wrong information. I am looking forward to my stay at the Dolphin because SPG has been VERY good to me over the years and to see somone blasting a hotel in a public forum over lack of vending machines, no free upgrades and you weren't greeted with "magical" Disney greeting at the door is what is cracking me up. Apparently a value resort that has Mickey on every corner is more your style, I suppose I prefer a proper hotel and amenities.

Disney sure does have a lot of people hood winked. If you take a Motel 6 like "inn" and slap some Mickey heads on the wall it is somehow better than a nice standard business hotel with interior corridors, feather pillows, down comforters, balconies, room service and valet parking. I give it to Disney on their marketing efforts, but I never understand how paying rack rate for a hotel is a good deal even when they throw in "free dining," when you add it all up you are overpaying by any standard resort.

DizzyErin

10-01-2009, 03:23 PM

Hey kara i see i have walked into the middle of a to do over here .. shall i come back when that's finished ;)
What a shame no upgrade this trip, we knew your mojo would wear off eventually :rotfl:

lauren_elizabeth

10-01-2009, 03:31 PM

I know it's been said before, but you & Ally are adorable! And dangit! I was hoping you'd get a free upgrade again so I could have you send me some of that upgrade mojo! :thumbsup2

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 03:35 PM

I was just reading up on the "personal pantry" and thought this was a fabulous idea that I wish more hotels would implement. I love being able to stock the mini fridge with snacks and drinks that I know my family would eat at reasonable prices! I plan on stocking my and my parent's room with snacks. No needing to yell, "put down that $8 mini bar Coca-cola."

http://www.swandolphin.com/pdf/pantrymenu.pdf

I guess I think that vending machines remind me a Holiday Inn and frankly have never gone looking for one at a hotel/resort. The pantry prices are quite reasonable and if I don't have to fumble for quarters or haul snacks up to the room I will pay these reasonable prices.

To be forced to order a minimum quantity of 6 sodas was silly. All I wanted was one diet coke when we got back to the room. I called the front desk and was told there are no vending machines. So I was forced to spend $5 for the sodas, plus gratuity. Seriously, I was on a mission for just one soda!!! And Ally and I walked all over that place to try to find one. It became humorous after awhile.... poor Ally was already so tired from walking all day. And quite frankly I've never stayed in a hotel that DIDN'T have vending machines.

prncess674 you're just cracking us all up because it's just a fun TR and you are posting like you are the Westin's lawyer! It's just funny...everyone is entitled to like or not like any place in the world they want for whatever reasons......

Thanx Debbie! :hug:

:worship:

:rotfl2:

Your TR may be "just for fun" but blasting a hotel in a public forum could give someone the wrong information. I am looking forward to my stay at the Dolphin because SPG has been VERY good to me over the years and to see somone blasting a hotel in a public forum over lack of vending machines, no free upgrades and you weren't greeted with "magical" Disney greeting at the door is what is cracking me up. Apparently a value resort that has Mickey on every corner is more your style, I suppose I prefer a proper hotel and amenities.

Disney sure does have a lot of people hood winked. If you take a Motel 6 like "inn" and slap some Mickey heads on the wall it is somehow better than a nice standard business hotel with interior corridors, feather pillows, down comforters, balconies, room service and valet parking. I give it to Disney on their marketing efforts, but I never understand how paying rack rate for a hotel is a good deal even when they throw in "free dining," when you add it all up you are overpaying by any standard resort.

A) I have not blasted any hotel in any forum.
B) I never complained about no free upgrade, and I think I've explained this sufficiently.
C) I never actually complained about no "magical" Disney greeting at the door.

I DID say that there is no Disney theming, and it's apparent that these are hotel employees and not Disney cast members. And I DID say that this hotel did not live up to Westin standards. But so far, I've never said I didn't like the Dolphin.

But suffice it to say, I'll take the Motel 6 with Mickey heads slapped on the walls if I can get the Disney service, magic, pixie dust, whatever you want to call it, to go along with it.

And that's all I'll say as far as rebuttal goes.

Hey kara i see i have walked into the middle of a to do over here .. shall i come back when that's finished ;)
What a shame no upgrade this trip, we knew your mojo would wear off eventually :rotfl:

See? YOU understand my upgrade mojo!!!! :rotfl2:

Now, on with a (hopefully!) fun trip report!!! :cool1:

DizzyErin

10-01-2009, 03:59 PM

See? YOU understand my upgrade mojo!!!! :rotfl2:

Now, on with a (hopefully!) fun trip report!!! :cool1:

Wooohoooo here's hoping the TR can get going now that's all out of the way then!
You know i loove your upgrade mojo ;)

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 04:24 PM

I know it's been said before, but you & Ally are adorable! And dangit! I was hoping you'd get a free upgrade again so I could have you send me some of that upgrade mojo! :thumbsup2

We ARE adorable, aren't we!!!! ;):lmao: And, sadly...... I think I've lost my mojo..... :sad2: But wait, there's more mojo to come!

Wooohoooo here's hoping the TR can get going now that's all out of the way then!
You know i loove your upgrade mojo ;)

Like I said above, there's more mojo to come, just not in the view. But, hey, I really like what they've done with the rooftop a/c units! :rotfl:

karajeboo

10-01-2009, 05:40 PM

So I just really want to get back to the fun that is the TR.....

As we made our way to DTD, I looked back at the Swan and Dolphin, referred to by many as the Swanolphin. But I noticed something, in the way only I can......

That's not Flipper on the roof of the Dolphin. It's..... it's..... it's a freakin fish! Jeff said it's a dolphin FISH, also known as mahi mahi.

So from heretofore (only because I rarely get to use the word heretofore), our resort for the weekend will be known as the Mahi Mahi, even though it does take more time to type that.

I just like it. It has a ring to it. Ya know?

So as we're riding to DTD from..... yup, the Mahi Mahi.........we pass the CM dorms. I point it out to Ally and tell her maybe she can stay there someday if she works at WDW in the summer.

She looks at me like I have just told her there's no Santa Claus, and says, "No Mommy, I'm not gonna work here in the summer. I'm gonna work here FOREVER!"

Way to dream, Ally! Go for it! Live up to your full potential!

But all I can think is, how will she support Jeff and I if she's a Disney Cast Member? I was thinking rocket scientist..... or neurologist.... or professional golfer...... or CEO - WAIT! She can be the Disney CEO someday!

Whew! That was close! I thought I was losing my meal ticket! ;)

After the shock wore off, we were soon pulling up to DTD. But the bus stopped on the Pleasure Island side. So I asked the driver if we would be going over to the Marketplace, too, and he told me that the Marketplace bus stop was closed for renovations! :scared1:

So I have to WALK?????? :scared1:

Wait one second. Renovations? To a BUS STOP???? Only in Disney!

So we made our way to Marketplace to grab a bite to eat at Earl of Sandwich. I really like this place for a quick bite. The sandwiches are good, and it won't break the bank.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDEoS1.jpg

I ordered the club and Ally got a grilled cheese.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDEoSclub.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDEoSgrilledcheese.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDEoS2.jpg

And for you food porn addicts, a photo of my frozen latte, plastic cup and all......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDEoSfrozenlatte.jpg

Now I ordered a few frozen lattes on this trip, and this was by FAR the best of all of them!

Ally loves to "taste" my lattes - she loves them!!! For obvious reasons I won't let her have too much - that's all I need, an 8 year old all hyped up on coffee!!!!

After dinner we headed straight to sugar mecca.......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDGoofys1.jpg

I had promised Ally that if she was good in school on Friday, we would go to Goofy's our first night. See, Ally has a problem in school with talking. She can't shut up!!!! Her teachers comment every year, "sweet girl, but talks too much."

Don't know where she gets that! :rolleyes1

So when I picked her up from the bus stop before we left she complained of a tummy ache. She said she thought it was because she was so nervous. Why? Because she was so scared all day that she would get in trouble for talking and we wouldn't be able to go to Goofy's!!!!

Once inside, we heard the angels singing....... Or maybe it was all the kids singing from their sugar high. Or maybe it was all the mothers sighing because of the kids sugar high.

No matter. We were here and we were gonna make our own sugar high!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDGoofys2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDGoofys5.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDGoofys3.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDGoofys4.jpg

After what seemed like forever, Ally finally settled on a bag of jelly beans. Yes, jelly beans. With all that wonderful chocolate, she gets jelly beans.... :confused3

So we took our big ole purchase of jelly beans (and a couple of chocolate covered pretzels for me!) and headed for the Disney store of all stores.... World of Disney, Disney, Disney.........

Ally found a Halloween Minnie to add to her collection. WE try to get her a new Minnie each trip - she has AK Minnie, HSM Minnie, Minnie Minnie, YOAMD Minnie, 50th Anniversary Minnie..... well, you get the idea.

We also got some ears for Buckeye, our 2 year old lab/chow "puppy." After all, he IS part of the family, and the whole family has ears, right?

And of course, there is no way I"m walking into World of Disney, Disney, Disney (darn echo!!!!) without a new shirt! So I found the cutest Halloween shirt.......

Oh, oh, I think Ally ate too many jelly beans. She was getting the giggles....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTDWOD1.jpg

So our belly was full, and our pockets were empty, and our feet were tired. And we haven't even hit a single park yet!!!!! But it was time to head back to the Mahi Mahi so we could get a good night's rest before EMH at DHS the next day.

When we got back to the Mahi Mahi, I was parched. I needed a big ole diet coke and I needed it NOW! So we decided to stroll around the hotel in search of.....

We walked by Blue Zoo - looks nice! And down a hall, turned right, down another hall, took a left, passed the laundry, passed the kids club, the health club..... still no diet coke.

We somehow ended up at the pools so decided to take a look, and I found the cabana bar!!!! So I asked for the biggest diet coke I could get. With no smile, not even a head bob, I got about the equivalent of a dixie cup, but a very full dixie cup. I literally sucked it down in 3 swallows. I kid you not. And that will be $2.66 thank you very much! :scared1:

So we did the Chevy Chase at the Grand Canyon scened. Yup, nice pool. Let's go. Mama still needs a diet coke.

We made our way back down 27 hallways, passed Blue Zoo - still looks nice! Up the escalator, through the lobby, up the elevator. Down the hall looking for a vending machine. Aha!!!!

The ice machine! There's always a vending machine by the ice machine, right?

WRONG!

So as Ally looked at me with those tired eyes, I knew we had to get back to the room.

So being the smart gal I am, I called the front desk. And was told by the very nice lady there, that I could only order from the "personal pantry" and the menu was by the refrigerator. Hmmm......

So I looked and ordered a 6pack - of diet coke...... Ally only drinks water or milk, so don't think I'm forgetting my child!!!!

$5 for a 6 pack - actually cheaper than a $1.75 coke out of the vending machine. Except that I only wanted ONE!!!! And of course I had to tip the man who brought it up on a tray. Oy vey!

I got my diet coke. Ally got to bed. And I got to watch STacy. All was well at the Mahi Mahi tonight...... And we did have the heavenly bed - take THAT all you at the BW and YC/BC! Yeah, I see you - sort of, if I look just to the right of the roof top a/c unit, and through the trees, and squint real hard. Yeah, I see you now!!!!

Up next, DHS and a very special tea at the GF!

soontobewed07

10-01-2009, 07:10 PM

MAGICFOR2

10-02-2009, 01:20 AM

I am perplexed by your dissatisfaction of the Dolphin. It is not Disney owned and you are correct Mickey Mouse isn't dripping everywhere but it would certainly count as a resort by any standards. I can't believe you think that staying at a Disney Value is better. You get a full service hotel with top notch restaurants, grotto pools, hot tubs, interior corridors and room service.

Did your room confirmation at booking say a room with a view? Are you an SPG platinum who is guaranteed an upgrade if available? Did you use SPG points to upgrade? Did you pay an upgrade fee? Once again I am perplexed why you believe why you were due an upgraded view based on a very low rate?

Did you not read that these fees are clearly posted on the website? I don't think they were pulling a fast one.

http://www.swandolphin.com/rates/index.html

* Rates are per room, per night based on rate schedule availability and do not include the mandatory Resort Service Package, daily parking fees (if applicable), applicable taxes or gratuities. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations or for groups.

Resort Service Package is $10 + tax per day and includes:

Up to 60 minutes free local telephone calls, toll free and credit card access calls
(.10 cents per minute after 60 minutes)
20 minutes of domestic long distance per day
Unlimited access to the resort’s health club facilities
In room high-speed Internet access
2 bottles of water daily

Sheesh...does someone own Westin stock or something? :sad2:

I will tell you what I told my DH lastnight...everyone seems to be suffering from Dips**t-itis lately.:lmao:

Your TR may be "just for fun" but blasting a hotel in a public forum could give someone the wrong information. I am looking forward to my stay at the Dolphin because SPG has been VERY good to me over the years and to see somone blasting a hotel in a public forum over lack of vending machines, no free upgrades and you weren't greeted with "magical" Disney greeting at the door is what is cracking me up. Apparently a value resort that has Mickey on every corner is more your style, I suppose I prefer a proper hotel and amenities.

Disney sure does have a lot of people hood winked. If you take a Motel 6 like "inn" and slap some Mickey heads on the wall it is somehow better than a nice standard business hotel with interior corridors, feather pillows, down comforters, balconies, room service and valet parking. I give it to Disney on their marketing efforts, but I never understand how paying rack rate for a hotel is a good deal even when they throw in "free dining," when you add it all up you are overpaying by any standard resort.

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::r otfl2::rotfl2:

I have DVC and AAA and SSR and DDP - I object to the implication that just because something has Mickey in the room, it would be rated like a "motel 6" - I have actually slept on feather pillows in a Disney Resort. I have sat on balconies in DISNEY resorts while watching giraffes eat, and I have ACTUALLY parked my car in valet AT DISNEY!!! I'm sure we all realize there are other places to stay besides on site, in fact I'm sure we've all stayed there.:snooty:

MAGICFOR2

10-02-2009, 01:27 AM

Kara, looks like you're off to a great start! thanks for the laughs!

LydiaAch

10-02-2009, 01:37 AM

Disney sure does have a lot of people hood winked. If you take a Motel 6 like "inn" and slap some Mickey heads on the wall it is somehow better than a nice standard business hotel with interior corridors, feather pillows, down comforters, balconies, room service and valet parking. I give it to Disney on their marketing efforts, but I never understand how paying rack rate for a hotel is a good deal even when they throw in "free dining," when you add it all up you are overpaying by any standard resort.

So why frequent a forum known for Disney-aholics?

disneyaddicted

10-02-2009, 02:39 AM

Wow, in all my years of reading TR's this is the first time I have ever come across a disgruntled reader. Surely this is still America, Land of the free. Opinions are still legal.

Anyway, I am loving your sense of humor, sarcasm rocks!!!!

You and DD are such splarkling cuties, I can't wait to read more, this trip sounds like it was a blast.

Mahi Mahi had me rolling!!!

tttessa

10-02-2009, 04:59 AM

Hi Kara...

coming in for a look too..... can't wait to read more....

Tessa

CRdisMom

10-02-2009, 09:06 AM

i think happy mahi mahi might be my new saying. Love the TR so far

karajeboo

10-02-2009, 10:11 AM

Kara loving the trip report it wouldn't be yours without the sarcasim :thumbsup2

Glad YOU'RE keeping things light and fun!!!! Can't wait to read more. I think I would be very disappointed in that view also. I have asked to be moved from rooms with those views. When I managed the hotels I would give those out last.

Mahi Mahi :rotfl2:

Eh, the view didn't kill me. I think I only looked outside twice - once to take the photos for the TR and once when it was pouring down rain. But I got what I paid for and I was fine with that. But I KNOW Disney wouldn't do that to me! ;)

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::r otfl2::rotfl2:

I have DVC and AAA and SSR and DDP - I object to the implication that just because something has Mickey in the room, it would be rated like a "motel 6" - I have actually slept on feather pillows in a Disney Resort.

Me too!!!

I have sat on balconies in DISNEY resorts while watching giraffes eat,

Me too!

and I have ACTUALLY parked my car in valet AT DISNEY!!!

Me too!

I'm sure we all realize there are other places to stay besides on site, in fact I'm sure we've all stayed there.:snooty:

:snooty: is right!!! :rotfl2:

Kara, looks like you're off to a great start! thanks for the laughs!

Anything for you Tammie! ;)

So why frequent a forum known for Disney-aholics?

Amen sista!

Wow, in all my years of reading TR's this is the first time I have ever come across a disgruntled reader. Surely this is still America, Land of the free. Opinions are still legal.

Anyway, I am loving your sense of humor, sarcasm rocks!!!!

You and DD are such splarkling cuties, I can't wait to read more, this trip sounds like it was a blast.

Mahi Mahi had me rolling!!!

You guys bring a tear to me eye...... Thanx for all the support!

And again with the sparkling cuties??? That's it, the sparkly ears pic goes in EVERY installment from here on out!!!

Hi Kara...

coming in for a look too..... can't wait to read more....

Tessa

Thanks Tessa!!!

i think happy mahi mahi might be my new saying. Love the TR so far

Thanx Laura! You'll never view the Swanolphin the same again. Now it might be the Swanahi?

katierae81

10-02-2009, 10:16 AM

Swanolphin...is that like a Liger?

karajeboo

10-02-2009, 10:25 AM

Swanolphin...is that like a Liger?

Or brunch!

katierae81

10-02-2009, 10:38 AM

Or brunch!

I'm a fan of Lupper myself.

Lovin Life

10-02-2009, 11:56 AM

It's linner for us! We have a few booked on our upcoming WDW trip!

Lovin this TR, Kara, and I have faith that you haven't lost your upgrade mojo. How could such a cute, sparkly individual not have it??:confused3:rotfl:

I will be back later....

karajeboo

10-02-2009, 12:31 PM

MAGICFOR2

10-02-2009, 02:40 PM

Kara, I think you should put the sparkly pic in your siggie!:thumbsup2

karajeboo

10-02-2009, 03:06 PM

In case y'all missed it the first TWO times, here we are again...... all cute and sparkly!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTD1.jpg

lauren_elizabeth

10-02-2009, 04:19 PM

Kara, is that a VB Hipster you're wearing in that picture?! I've been seriously thinking about getting one. Worth it!?

karajeboo

10-02-2009, 05:42 PM

Kara, is that a VB Hipster you're wearing in that picture?! I've been seriously thinking about getting one. Worth it!?

Why yes! Yes it is! Jury still out on it though. Ally and I ended up trading and I wore her VB backsack instead. The hipster doesn't have all the pockets that my baggalini and overland donner bags have. And it's not as roomy - nowhere to carry a bottle of water, etc. But it's cute!!!! :thumbsup2

Camster0307

10-03-2009, 10:08 AM

So Kara, I've been MIA for awhile and I'm catching up.................

Can you give me a recap of how you feel about the Dolphin hotel?

:lmao:

lauren_elizabeth

10-03-2009, 10:45 AM

Why yes! Yes it is! Jury still out on it though. Ally and I ended up trading and I wore her VB backsack instead. The hipster doesn't have all the pockets that my baggalini and overland donner bags have. And it's not as roomy - nowhere to carry a bottle of water, etc. But it's cute!!!! :thumbsup2

Yeah, I do like my baggalini full of pockets! But thanks for the info about the Hipster! I might just have to take a trip to the store and check one out in person! And you're right... it's definitely CUTE!

So Kara, I've been MIA for awhile and I'm catching up.................

Can you give me a recap of how you feel about the Dolphin hotel?

:lmao:

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! :rotfl: This one made me laugh out loud for real.

karajeboo

10-03-2009, 11:29 AM

So Kara, I've been MIA for awhile and I'm catching up.................

Can you give me a recap of how you feel about the Dolphin hotel?

:lmao:

Loved it! Especially all the cute Disney theming, and having Mickey personally carry my luggage to my penthouse suite!!!!

Yeah, I do like my baggalini full of pockets! But thanks for the info about the Hipster! I might just have to take a trip to the store and check one out in person! And you're right... it's definitely CUTE!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! :rotfl: This one made me laugh out loud for real.

It seems I carry more and more with me each trip. And honestly, if it weren't for Ally's homemade autograph book that we just HAVE to carry with us each trip, just in case one of those obscure characters happens to be out and about...... well, I might not even need a bag if it weren't for that. But the VB hipster was more comfortable than my baggalini OR overland donner bag.

tttessa

10-03-2009, 11:31 AM

So Kara, I've been MIA for awhile and I'm catching up.................

Can you give me a recap of how you feel about the Dolphin hotel?

:lmao:

Now Cammie!!:stir::stir::stir: :rotfl:

MAGICFOR2

10-03-2009, 02:57 PM

So Kara, I've been MIA for awhile and I'm catching up.................

Can you give me a recap of how you feel about the Dolphin hotel?

:lmao:

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

Yeah, I do like my baggalini full of pockets! But thanks for the info about the Hipster! I might just have to take a trip to the store and check one out in person! And you're right... it's definitely CUTE!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! :rotfl: This one made me laugh out loud for real.

Me too!

Loved it! Especially all the cute Disney theming, and having Mickey personally carry my luggage to my penthouse suite!!!

Now Cammie!!:stir::stir::stir: :rotfl:

:worship::worship::worship::worship: Jim has enjoyed our little dialogue, too. He's a little offended by the :snooty: comments, but he thinks we're being a little snarky, too!:grouphug:

Kara, I love the sparkly new Avatar, BTW!

Lovin Life

10-03-2009, 08:23 PM

Lovin Life

10-03-2009, 08:24 PM

Oops. Double post.

meeko_33785

10-03-2009, 08:54 PM

:rotfl: Wow, hillarious report so far. Can't wait to see what happens once you two get to a park!

flafan

10-03-2009, 09:33 PM

Love your report so far. Looking forward to hearing more:goodvibes

scrapindis

10-03-2009, 09:43 PM

Hurry back please! I am enjoying your report!

MAGICFOR2

10-04-2009, 02:53 AM

karajeboo

10-04-2009, 09:03 AM

Leave it to Cammie!;):rotfl:

I carry a HUGE backpack, got a new bigger, better one this year. Carries autograph books, everyone's hoodies, a couple of rain ponchos for everyone, a couple of plastic tablecloths for watching the parades on Main Street, or anywhere else we would have to sit on the ground, mini first-aid kit, gum, candy, souveniers purchased that day...I am not carrying my purse this trip, like I have in the past, but am thinking of carrying a fanny pack. Does anyone use those any more? That way, I don't have to take the backpack off every time I want to pay for something or get our park passes out.

I agree with Tammie - NOOOOOO fannypacks! In my baggalini or Overland Donner bag I can carry one or two bottles of water, 3 ponchos, big camera, big homemade autograph book (5x7 and about 2 inches thick WITH small clipboard!), plus a change of clothes for Ally. Not to mention all the pockets inside for my tickets, credit cards, etc. Then there's even more pockets for first aid kits, gum, etc. Serioulsy a HUGE bag inside without being obnoxiously large outside.

:rotfl: Wow, hillarious report so far. Can't wait to see what happens once you two get to a park!

Oh, be afraid...... be VERY afraid!

Love your report so far. Looking forward to hearing more:goodvibes

Hurry back please! I am enjoying your report!

I'll hurry!!! Just need to get through a little bit of LIFE first! :rotfl:

So Jeff gets up this morning and says, "We should have gotten up early and driven to Animal Kingdom for the day." :scared1: He's pouting because he hasn't been since May!

CRdisMom

10-04-2009, 10:30 AM

NO FANNY PACKS!!!!!! EEEK! Go with the bags kara recommended. I have one and love it.

I think it is funny that Jeff is pouting

tttessa

10-04-2009, 10:33 AM

Hiya again Kara...

Now over in the UK "fanny" has a totally different meaning to over there - always makes me do a double take - just like "happy hump day"!!
You girls make me laugh!

p.s. In the UK a fanny pack is called a bum-bag.... and nooo I don't like them either.

Tessa

tinkerbells mum

10-05-2009, 07:33 AM

I'm just loving your new trip report, you really make me laugh when you write, it's so entertaining. i just can't believe there's someone on here with out an ounce of pixie dust about them, who wouldn't want to stay in a hotel "dripping with all things Disney", isn't that what we go for!! can't wait to here the rest and see the "cute and sparkly" picture again!!

podsnel

10-05-2009, 01:41 PM

O.M.G.!!!!! And I will NOT be having any snarkiness on any of my TRs either, thank-you very much! It can all go to Alan Renfroe!! :rotfl:

Where's the part about me? Isn't that the point of this TR? That you saw ME??????? 15 minutes of heaven, that's what it should be called!!! :rotfl: Or the best 15 minutes of the weekend- that would work, too!! :rotfl: I know- the 15 minutes that made life worth living at WDW!!!! :thumbsup2

PS- I cancelled BCV for the next DISmoms trip- it's Mahi-Mahi all the way!!! :banana:

karajeboo

10-05-2009, 02:12 PM

karajeboo

10-05-2009, 02:20 PM

NO FANNY PACKS!!!!!! EEEK! Go with the bags kara recommended. I have one and love it.

I think it is funny that Jeff is pouting

He's REALLY gonna be pouting if Ally and I decided to go to AK for the day this weekend while he's out of town!!!! :rotfl2:

Hiya again Kara...

Now over in the UK "fanny" has a totally different meaning to over there - always makes me do a double take - just like "happy hump day"!!
You girls make me laugh!

p.s. In the UK a fanny pack is called a bum-bag.... and nooo I don't like them either.

Tessa

Oh, bum bag - I like that! So do tell..... what is a fanny???

I'm just loving your new trip report, you really make me laugh when you write, it's so entertaining. i just can't believe there's someone on here with out an ounce of pixie dust about them, who wouldn't want to stay in a hotel "dripping with all things Disney", isn't that what we go for!! can't wait to here the rest and see the "cute and sparkly" picture again!!

You mean THIS one????

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DTD1.jpg

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

I'll have more info on the Mahi Mahi, too. I was just afraid I might cause some folks to faint if I included it all in one post!

englishrose47

10-05-2009, 02:20 PM

I'm heeeere Kara !! I hope you didn't let Ellen near your"bouche"with a camera or we will have a new ITSK!!!!:lmao:

podsnel

10-05-2009, 03:53 PM

Oh, don't worry, you'll be in my TR.... it's titled "The 15 minutes of my life I can never get back....." :rotfl2:

I knew you'd love that I sent all snarks to your TR!!!! :lmao:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I'm heeeere Kara !! I hope you didn't let Ellen near your"bouche"with a camera or we will have a new ITSK!!!!:lmao:

Uh-oh....I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. :crazy2:

DizzyErin

10-05-2009, 04:19 PM

Oh, bum bag - I like that! So do tell..... what is a fanny???

Hhahhahahha ok maybe you don't really wanna know .. The word fanny is another word for ... how can i put it ... somewhere near what you call fanny and we call bum, your lady bits :rotfl: hence the word Fanny pack is sooooo not something one would ever want to have here :rotfl::rotfl:

karajeboo

10-05-2009, 05:09 PM

I'm heeeere Kara !! I hope you didn't let Ellen near your"bouche"with a camera or we will have a new ITSK!!!!:lmao:

No, instead she tormented Ally and made her do all sorts of thing so out of character! Like lying..... wait, she is becoming quite the little liar lately. OK, how about scheming with Pods...... wait, she is a good little schemer. OK, how about taking her picture when she was crying!!!! Yeah, not I'm Too Sexy Kara, but I'm Too Sad Ally, heretofore (cause I STILL love that word!) ITSA........

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Uh-oh....I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. :crazy2:

See, now that just ain't right......

Hhahhahahha ok maybe you don't really wanna know .. The word fanny is another word for ... how can i put it ... somewhere near what you call fanny and we call bum, your lady bits :rotfl: hence the word Fanny pack is sooooo not something one would ever want to have here :rotfl::rotfl:

Ewwwwwwwwww! No more fanny packs!!! Ellen, what's that? Yeah, now you can say it......

podsnel

10-05-2009, 08:11 PM

No, instead she tormented Ally and made her do all sorts of thing so out of character! Like lying..... wait, she is becoming quite the little liar lately. OK, how about scheming with Pods...... wait, she is a good little schemer. OK, how about taking her picture when she was crying!!!! Yeah, not I'm Too Sexy Kara, but I'm Too Sad Ally, heretofore (cause I STILL love that word!) ITSA........

See, now that just ain't right......

Ewwwwwwwwww! No more fanny packs!!! Ellen, what's that? Yeah, now you can say it......

I believe that is referred to in some circles as an amused bouche! :snooty: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

CRdisMom

10-05-2009, 11:09 PM

Is that better than a bouche de Noel? (the french xmas log cake) Just keep laughing over the bouche comments.

disneyaddicted

10-06-2009, 02:07 AM

I'm not trying to rush you, really. But..........ahem....TR update?

karajeboo

10-06-2009, 08:00 AM

I'm not trying to rush you, really. But..........ahem....TR update?

Awwww, you like me, you really like me!!!! Sally Field shout out......

Anywho, you just want to see the sparkly girls again, huh? OK, promise to get an update today......

lauren_elizabeth

10-06-2009, 10:04 AM

Awwww, you like me, you really like me!!!! Sally Field shout out......

Anywho, you just want to see the sparkly girls again, huh? OK, promise to get an update today......

I definitely just want to see the sparkly girls again. ;)

karajeboo

10-06-2009, 11:41 AM

Is that better than a bouche de Noel? (the french xmas log cake) Just keep laughing over the bouche comments.

Now we have two TRs confused - there is no BOUCHE in my TR - after all, Ally's innocent ears don't need to hear about that!

karajeboo

10-06-2009, 12:17 PM

So after a no park day upon arrival, a quest for Diet Coke, and a heavenly slumber in my heavenly bed...... it was now time to hit the parks!!!

The alarm went off at 6:30am, because there is NO SLEEPING IN DISNEY!!!!!

We were out the door around 7:30 and made our way to the dock to catch the boat to DHS.

Now I must say, I love love LOVE the location of the Mahi Mahi. And when you're headed to DHS, you are the last stop, therefore (or would that be heretofore???) only a 5 minute ride to the park! :cool1:

Here's HOllywood herself, still sparkling!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-boatinam.jpg

We just missed rope drop by about 2 minutes, so we were in good shape.

First things first. Must get fast passes for TSM!!!!

But Ally had other ideas. I let her help me plan our trips, even help plan the day once we get into the parks. She knows her way around and she knows when we need fast passes and when we need to wait stand by.

So she KNEW the importance of a TSM FP first thing in the morning.

But she's still 8. And, thankfully, the characters are still real so we just had to see them here! For the 103rd time in her young Disney life!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-MinnieAlly2.jpg

So risque!!!! If I walked around the park with my undies showing like that.... well, that's a sure sign that somebody is without their tent over at Fort Wilderness!

I will never complain when she wants to stop for a character pic. I know the day is coming when she will just blow them off and head to World Showcase to grab a drink or two. Wait, I have her confused with me!!!!! :rotfl2:

Anywho, heretofore....... we left Minnie and headed straight to......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-ChipnDale.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-ChipnDale2.jpg

Were you not paying attention? Didn't I just say that characters were still a priority? Well then, c'mon! Stay with me here......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-Pluto.jpg

AFter hamming it up with Pluto, we finally made our way to TSM and grabbed fast passes. We were due back around 10:30 so off we went to hit the biggies. RnR and ToT BABY!!!!!!

We cut through the walkway by HOllywood Brown Derby (where we are eating in December, so I wanted to check out the menu so I can act like I know what I'm doing then!), and of course as soon as Ally said, "Oh Mommy, look at that!" I had the camera out and ready for action!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-Ally1.jpg

Did someone say sparkly???? Oh yeah, we've still got our sparkle!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AllyMommy2.jpg

So as Ally was literally dragging me toward RnR, I made her stop for this. AFter which I was instructed "NO MORE PICTURES!"

Yeah, we'll see who wins THAT battle!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AllyTOT.jpg

First to ToT where the standby line was 15 minutes. There was a family in front of us with a little guy, he said he was 4 years old. Crying. Did NOT want to ride Tower of Terror. I tried to calm him down, and Ally did too. His mother just kept telling him he was going to ride it whether he wanted to or not. :scared1:

I felt so bad for the little guy, so we tried to tell him about it, and Ally told him she was about the same age he was when she first rode it - did I mention my child LIES!!!!! Although she did ride it her first trip to Disney when she was 5 and just barely 40 inches. And loved it!

So we make our way through the queue - is there better theming on any attraction at Disney? Hmmm.....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-TOT1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-TOT2.jpg

Sure signs of mousekeeping going downhill..... I think I need to give someone the number for my cleaning lady....... although I'm sure she would say that this sooooo resembles my house anyway!!!

When we were waiting, there was only one elevator opened. Right as we got up to that spot where you can go straight or go right, they opened up two more, so we zoomed right into a spot.

And the crying boy was in our elevator. Not happy. At all.

We did our thing. We laughed, we screamed, we giggled. We threw our hands in the air. And we dropped. Again and again.

And when we got off I looked at the little guy and he was..... LAUGHING!!!! HE LOVED IT! I thought he might but I still hated to see him so scared before.

We boogied out of ToT and headed straight to RnR where the wait was 10 minutes! SCORE!!!!

Ally claims she has never seen the Aerosmith preshow, so we stood right up by the glass so she could watch. And as I've said before, with all that botox I'm beginning to think that DUDE really DOES look like a lady!!!!

We were in our limo - better make it a SUPER stretch!!! Again, laughed, giggled, screamed, raised our hands..... well, you get the picture!

I used to HATE this roller coaster because I'm not a fan of the super take off. I much prefer to climb a hill and let gravity take over. But I literally had to learn to control my breathing on this and now I love it!

The first time I rode it I held my breath in the beginning and could not get it back until about halfway through the ride! It freaked me out and I swore I'd never ride again.

But 8 year olds have a way of guilting you into doing things...... like Mission Space! Remember that fiasco?????

After hitting the two biggies, Ally wanted to ride Star Tours and I was fine with this, AFTER I got some breakfast.

So off to Starring Rolls to wait in that madhouse! Ally always picks the first obnoxiously sweet and chocolatey thing she sees, then regrets it when she sees something even MORE obnoxiously sweet and chocolately. And of course this day was no exception.

I got a bagel with cream cheese and a hazelnut frozen latte. Then it happened. That which can ruin a day. Ruin a trip. Ruin a LIFE!!!!

The toaster broke. Yup, I had to eat a cold bagel. With even colder clumpy cream cheese. No crunchy, warm bagel on which the cream cheese could melt into creamy goodness. Nope. Cold. Chewy. But it did the trick.

I was full, and happy. Ally was covered in chocolate and equally happy.

And we were off to Star Tours.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-ST1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-ST2.jpg

I just read that ST is up for a renovation soon. It needs it. Although I do love that crazy droid captain!!! He makes me giggle. And then people look at me like crazy aunt Hilda. You know. The crazy cat lady? Yeah, THAT aunt!

In fact, so crazy that Jeff and I have decided to go to our neighborhood Halloween party as Princess Leia (no not in her slave outfit, much to Jeff's dismay and everyone else's joy!) and Luke Skywalker this year!!!! And Ally? Yoda. And not happy about it AT ALL!!!!! :rotfl2:

Afterwards, we had a little time to kill before we decided to catch American Idol. We were both looking forward to this - watching, that is.....

But first, look who was waiting for us!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-Donald.jpg

See, no matter how many people are in line to see Donald, Ally is convinced each time she sees him that nobody is in line. And she feels bad for him. One time I asked him where Mickey was, and he stomped his feet, threw a big ole temper tantrum. And Ally was soooooo mad at me! She really believed that I hurt his feelings.

She's convinced that Donald gets the shaft at Disney. Stupid duck has gotten into her head.

Finally, we made our way into AI just as it was ready to begin..........

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AI2.jpg

Here she is singing into her chocolate milk bottle. Which, luckily for all of us, is as close to a stage as she'll ever get to really singing. We hope. Are howler monkeys even allowed in a theater?

Up next, my take on American Idol and afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian! A PERFECT mother/daughter treat!

meeko_33785

10-06-2009, 12:29 PM

Another great update. Those characters sure can be distracting, huh?

Glad to hear the crying boy loved ToT. Too bad that he sounded near-traumatized beforehand.

Still laughing at the Mahi-Mahi Hotel. :lmao: It's so true!

podsnel

10-06-2009, 12:54 PM

lauren_elizabeth

10-06-2009, 01:48 PM

Yaaaaay! Another update with the Sparkly Girls! :banana:

Aww, I love Ally! Gotta stop and take pictures with the characters, but then she's ready for some THRILL rides! She's adorable! :goodvibes

englishrose47

10-06-2009, 03:29 PM

Hereforetoo I loved the update !!:thumbsup2And how's your "bouche"!! :lmao:Do you keep it in a 'Fanny "pack!!!:rotfl2:What did Elln do to poor Ally in those infamous 15 minutes :confused3

Lovin Life

10-07-2009, 01:51 PM

I LOVE the update! I LOVE Ally's character pics. More, more...popcorn::

Did you happen to get that 4 year old's name so that they can talk to my almost 12 yr old who won't ride TOT (or several other rides for that matter!:headache:)).

OK, no fanny pack...:sad2: I will not tell Darrin about the responses I got because he told me straight out - NO FANNY PACK.

I do need to look for a cute over the shoulder small wallet thingy to carry w/my over-sized obnoxious black camping backpack that cannot come off of my back every time I need to take out the park tickets for FP or for a quick tissue or piece of gum. It even has a compartment at the bottom for a raincoat for the backpack! I am the family pack mule. I will make Darrin carry it more often on this trip though, since it is solid black and not the embroidered Winnie the Pooh one I've carried in the past (the straps started to tear away:sad1:)....

I am just picturing Erin and Tessa's fanny pack.:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

CRdisMom

10-07-2009, 05:32 PM

check out shoe buy.com always has great deals. I have acoupon if you want it.

LOVE the updates. It helped cheer me up today.

disneyaddicted

10-09-2009, 03:47 AM

I'm so glad the Sparkly McSparklesons were having such a great day at DHS. I laughed my butt off at this post (it's growing back as I type this though:() anywhooo, great update. Keep it up funny lady. I'm loving it!

Lovin Life

10-09-2009, 02:21 PM

I laughed my butt off at this post (it's growing back as I type this though:( )

:lmao: I love this quote, and will have to use it sometime (the growing back part)!

check out shoe buy.com always has great deals. I have acoupon if you want it.

Thanks! I ended up buying at shoes.com. I bought a fanny pack. JK. :rotfl:I got an over the shoulder mini bag. It's adorable, and was on sale for a very good price w/no shipping! :woohoo:I was happy excited!! I cannot wait to get it. I wish I wasn't too cheap to pay for the expedited shipping.:sad2: DH said he told me so on the fanny pack. I'm just not usually cool like that, but I will be w/my new bag!

karajeboo

10-09-2009, 03:43 PM

I just LOLd so many times in that update, I don't know what was funniest! :rotfl2: I have made a pact with Timmy that we will both be doing TOT this next trip- we are both scared to death, but willing to take the risk!!!:lmao: Then I made him promise we'd go on RnRC together- he's never ridden that one. And i think he's gonna LOVE it!! But I am sure on both we are both gonna be as freaked as that little boy was before the rides start! :scared1:

And I really love the sparkly girls!:thumbsup2

I laugh at myself quite a bit too. Then I put down the mirror so I can get some work done..... :rolleyes1

Yaaaaay! Another update with the Sparkly Girls! :banana:

Aww, I love Ally! Gotta stop and take pictures with the characters, but then she's ready for some THRILL rides! She's adorable! :goodvibes

She is an adrenaline JUNKIE!!!! The faster, taller, steeper, the better!

Hereforetoo I loved the update !!:thumbsup2And how's your "bouche"!! :lmao:Do you keep it in a 'Fanny "pack!!!:rotfl2:What did Elln do to poor Ally in those infamous 15 minutes :confused3

Oh, just wait and see how Ellen corrupted my little angel!

I LOVE the update! I LOVE Ally's character pics. More, more...popcorn::

Did you happen to get that 4 year old's name so that they can talk to my almost 12 yr old who won't ride TOT (or several other rides for that matter!:headache:)).

OK, no fanny pack...:sad2: I will not tell Darrin about the responses I got because he told me straight out - NO FANNY PACK.

NO FANNY PACK!!!!

LOVE the updates. It helped cheer me up today.

I'm glad - hope things are better! :flower3:

I'm so glad the Sparkly McSparklesons were having such a great day at DHS. I laughed my butt off at this post (it's growing back as I type this though:() anywhooo, great update. Keep it up funny lady. I'm loving it!

We ARE the Sparkly McSparklesons! Hmmm, hopefully no relation to Hottie McHottie or that would just be gross.....

Thanks! I ended up buying at shoes.com. I bought a fanny pack. JK. :rotfl:I got an over the shoulder mini bag. It's adorable, and was on sale for a very good price w/no shipping! :woohoo:I was happy excited!! I cannot wait to get it. I wish I wasn't too cheap to pay for the expedited shipping.:sad2: DH said he told me so on the fanny pack. I'm just not usually cool like that, but I will be w/my new bag!

Did I stutter? NO FANNY PACK!!!!

No update today - I'm coming down with a cold I think..... sore throat and a bit of an ache. And of course Ally is having a sleepover tonight. Just 3 girls, so I think I'll just hang in my bedroom with the dog.....

lauren_elizabeth

10-09-2009, 03:57 PM

Blaaaah, being sick is no fun! I hope you feel better ASAP, Kara! :hug:

Lovin Life

10-09-2009, 04:51 PM

I hear ya.:sad2:

I hope that you feel better! Double up on your vitamin C! Did I tell you I am making the family take Airborne a couple of days prior to our Nov trip, wear masks on the airplane AND do the netti pot nasal flush after we land?! They think I'm nuts. I may be the only one that complies, but I will not get sick. I am packing a big can of Lysol, a little one, and anti-bacterial wipes (not much different than other trips).

Mysteria

10-10-2009, 01:08 AM

Just noticed you had a new tr going. Caught up now and lmao. I'm in bed on the laptop. I'm surprised I didn't wake dh.

podsnel

10-10-2009, 10:22 AM

I laugh at myself quite a bit too. Then I put down the mirror so I can get some work done..... :rolleyes1

Oh, just wait and see how Ellen corrupted my little angel!
No update today - I'm coming down with a cold I think..... sore throat and a bit of an ache. And of course Ally is having a sleepover tonight. Just 3 girls, so I think I'll just hang in my bedroom with the dog.....

Oh- yeah...I corrupted the little angel.:sad2: Look at what the little angel did to poor, poor, unsuspecting Pods!! Nearly killed the man!!:scared1:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Sept%2009/2009_100106summer0290.jpg

karajeboo

10-12-2009, 08:00 AM

Oh- yeah...I corrupted the little angel.:sad2: Look at what the little angel did to poor, poor, unsuspecting Pods!! Nearly killed the man!!:scared1:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Sept%2009/2009_100106summer0290.jpg

Welll..... yeah...... there was that....... :rolleyes1

MAGICFOR2

10-12-2009, 09:07 AM

Kara, love the update! I love Ally's combination of "little girl who loves the characters along with adrenaline junkie! :cool1:

Thank God we did an intervention and got Pam away from her Fanny pack! :eek:

CRdisMom

10-12-2009, 09:19 AM

how did sweet little miss get Pods to fall for the beverly. I thought that was only Cammie that could pull that off?

MaryAz

10-12-2009, 07:00 PM

tttessa

10-13-2009, 07:24 AM

No joke the ads at the bottom of the page are for "fanny packs" or "waist bags" :rotfl2::rotfl2:

Yep - even over this side of the pond - ours have bum-bags or waist bags!!!!!

Tessa

MAGICFOR2

10-13-2009, 09:11 AM

Yay another TR. Glad the drama has left-well not really-love me some drama.
You are certainly cute and sparkly!!
No joke the ads at the bottom of the page are for "fanny packs" or "waist bags" :rotfl2::rotfl2:

Yep - even over this side of the pond - ours have bum-bags or waist bags!!!!!

Tessa

That's too funny! :lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao: No "fanny packs" over there, eh, Tessa :goodvibes

karajeboo

10-13-2009, 02:04 PM

Blaaaah, being sick is no fun! I hope you feel better ASAP, Kara! :hug:

Just now feeling better - what a crummy weekend!!!! But at least Jeff slept in the guest room so I had the big king bed allllllll to myself!:cloud9:

I hear ya.:sad2:

I hope that you feel better! Double up on your vitamin C! Did I tell you I am making the family take Airborne a couple of days prior to our Nov trip, wear masks on the airplane AND do the netti pot nasal flush after we land?! They think I'm nuts. I may be the only one that complies, but I will not get sick. I am packing a big can of Lysol, a little one, and anti-bacterial wipes (not much different than other trips).

Pam - if you're gonna get sick, you're gonna get sick. As much as we go to WDW I don't think I've ever gotten sick from there. It's this darn kid of mine bringing home germs from school! Funny thing is.... knock on wood.... Ally has not been sick since she had her tonsils out ovr 4 years ago! Not even so much as a sniffle!!!

Just noticed you had a new tr going. Caught up now and lmao. I'm in bed on the laptop. I'm surprised I didn't wake dh.

Hey Mysteria!!!! Glad you found me!!! Seems I always have some sort of TR going on!

Kara, love the update! I love Ally's combination of "little girl who loves the characters along with adrenaline junkie! :cool1:

Thank God we did an intervention and got Pam away from her Fanny pack! :eek:

And thankfully the girls from across the pond corrected us on our definition of fanny pack! :rotfl2:

how did sweet little miss get Pods to fall for the beverly. I thought that was only Cammie that could pull that off?

Well, of course it was Ellen that corrupted her!!!

Yay another TR. Glad the drama has left-well not really-love me some drama.
You are certainly cute and sparkly!!
No joke the ads at the bottom of the page are for "fanny packs" or "waist bags" :rotfl2::rotfl2:

Isn't that a hoot! OK, what can we talk about now to try to get ads for it...... Brad Pitt, Brad Pitt, Brad Pitt, Brad Pitt!!!!!

Yep - even over this side of the pond - ours have bum-bags or waist bags!!!!!

Tessa

HOw do you say Brad Pitt in English? :confused3 :lmao:

That's too funny! :lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao: No "fanny packs" over there, eh, Tessa :goodvibes

Brad Pitt Brad Pitt Brad Pitt!!!!

karajeboo

10-13-2009, 02:07 PM

Work is really getting in the way of my TR this week! I work for an internet company that sells gas fireplaces, grills, gas logs, etc. And tis the season! As soon as Labor Day hits evrey year, we are super busy through Feb or March. So it's cutting into my DIS time!!!

Stupid job!!!

Oh, well.....

BRAD PITT BRAD PITT BRAD PITT!!!!!

disneyaddicted

10-15-2009, 02:18 AM

We ARE the Sparkly McSparklesons! Hmmm, hopefully no relation to Hottie McHottie or that would just be gross.....
.....The Hottie Mchotties are desendants of the Scrumdiddlyumptous bunch, if you are able to trace your McSparkleson lineage back to the scrumdiddlyumptous bunch then yes, that would put you into relation with the McHotties. I dated a Mchottie once, his name was Hottie Hottie Hot Hot Mchottie.

Ready for an update! Work Sucks!!!! It ruins everything.

MAGICFOR2

10-18-2009, 05:43 PM

I think MickeyPath is broken today. But the McSparlkesons are still sparklin!

katierae81

10-20-2009, 09:54 AM

The bottom of my page has an ad for Weight Watchers...does that mean I have to lose weight before I get to see Brad Pitt, Brad Pitt, Brad Pitt?:lmao:

karajeboo

10-21-2009, 11:03 AM

Time out from my TR to fill you all in on a horrible situation where I live. 7 year old Somer Thompson went missing on Monday while walking home from school. The authorities are investigating this as an abduction and it has hit me really hard. I can't talk about it or write about it without tears. Somer lives only about 5 miles from me, and for all I know, her abductors could have been in our neighborhood as well. It is a sad and frightening time for evreyone in the area, as well as across the country. But when it literally happens so close to home, I think it makes it even harder.

Please keep Somer and her family in your thoughts and prayers......

CRdisMom

10-21-2009, 11:09 AM

podsnel

10-23-2009, 03:21 PM

Hang in there, honey. :hug:

englishrose47

10-24-2009, 05:44 PM

So sad !! and soooo scary !!

alan_renfroe

10-27-2009, 03:56 PM

Hi Kara! Sorry I have just now found your new trip report....and I'm subscribing of course. I have just sat and read 7 pages worth! You are cracking me up! :thumbsup2

Oh, and Ellen....I resemble that remark!

karajeboo

10-29-2009, 11:16 AM

i understand. I keep praying she will come home. Jacob Weiterling was taken around this time 20 years ago. He was my age and live about 50 miles north in St. Joesph. There isn't a story about a child abuducted that doesn't go by that I think of him. I hope that they find her soon. How is Ally taking this?

Hang in there, honey. :hug:

So sad !! and soooo scary !!

Well, it's been quite a wicked week and a half here. If you've seen the news, you know that they found little Somer Thompson's body in the landfill. It's bad enough she was taken, worse that she was killed, but to just dump her out like trash??? HORRIBLE!!! It's shaken us all up, and to know there is a child killer on the loose in town is really scary. We're even having a fence put up today in our backyard, just to make our home a little more secure with Ally. We back up to woods, and then the golf course, so it's pretty desolate. I hate her letting the dog out by herself, but this will make me feel better.....

Hi Kara! Sorry I have just now found your new trip report....and I'm subscribing of course. I have just sat and read 7 pages worth! You are cracking me up! :thumbsup2

Oh, and Ellen....I resemble that remark!

Hey Alan!!! Glad to see you! How is the dawg hut working out????

I will try to work on a new installment now. It's been tough and I've just been so emotionally wrecked the past few days..... but it's time to pull it together and get back to life!

karajeboo

10-29-2009, 11:35 AM

The McSparklesons are baaaaaack! And no place better to sparkle than.....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AI3.jpg

I must say, this is a new MUST DO at Hollywood Studios! Loved it! Even Ally loved it, and she did NOT want to go at first. I still think she was waiting for David Archuletta to appear. Me? Gimme some Chris Daughtrey and I'd be happy!!! There would be no shortage of sparkles from this McSparkleson!

The dude in the beginning was there to "warm up the crowd" and he had Ally up and clapping and having a great time.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIAlly.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIMark1.jpg

Then the judges were announced. A bit cheesy - there was the Randy wannabe, then the Paula wannabe, then the American Simon wannabe, complete with all the snarky comments to the contestants. We were told in advance that it was okay to boo the snarky Simon wannabe, and the audience fully complied!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIjudges.jpg

Then we had three contestants. First guy same Sweet Home Alabama. Eh. He was okay, better than me and my howler monkey daughter, but nothing outstanding. At least he could carry a tune....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIsing1.jpg

Then a gal sang Independence Day by Martina McBride. She was great. Not real AI great, but pretty dang good.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIsing2.jpg

Then a dorky dude singing Superstition by Stevie Wonder. Complete with cheesy dancing.... if you wanna call it that. Snarky Simon wannabe had a field day with this guy.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-AIsing3.jpg

The gal won and she came back later in the day to compete against all the daily winners. The day's final winner gets a front of the line pass to any AI audition in the country. Which is great if they fall into the age range for AI....

When we take my parents for their 50th anniversary in 2 years, I DEFINITELY want my sister to audition! I'm sure she could win at least the single show.

She got the talent in our family. I got the looks..... :rolleyes1

Anywho.......

After Idol, we raced back to use our FPs at TSM. Love this attraction! It is so fun and fast paced, but one meeeeellion times better than Buzz Lightyear at MK. And of course, I kicked some major butt!

I never have been through the standby line so I've missed all those great queuing pics....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-TSM2.jpg

My score and Ally's score....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-TSM3.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/DHS-TSM4.jpg

Is your screen blurry? Put on your 3D glasses and it's crystal clear. Clear that I kicked the butt of an 8 year old! Yeah, I'm just that good.....

So after taking a good butt whoopin, Ally decided it was time to head back to the Mahi Mahi to get ready for our afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian!

Back soon with tales of a WONDERFUL mother/daughter afternoon!

podsnel

10-29-2009, 12:02 PM

karajeboo

10-29-2009, 01:53 PM

Did you say HOWLER MONKEY DAUGHTER???????
:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

My GAWD, woman!!! You're talkin' about a Sparkly girl!!! She ain't no stinkin' howler monkey!!!!

Now, her mother, on the other hand...:rolleyes1

Very glad your TR is back- along with you! I have a new one- come make your presence known! :yay:

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2314922

You met her! Remember? My segment that will be titled "15 minutes of my life I'll never get back....." Anyway, just be glad she didn't sing for you! She's one sparkly howler monkey!

meeko_33785

10-29-2009, 03:37 PM

It's nice to finally get a new update! I've missed them.

Sorry to hear about what's been going on in your area. :(

karajeboo

10-29-2009, 04:01 PM

Just got some more info on what's going on here..... now let me explain the way my neighborhood is set up.

We live in a mega community - reminds me of a large retirement community... for families. We are part of Orange Park, but our community has a ton of smaller communites within it, including a golf course community. that's where we live. Then within the golf course community, there are about 5 or 6 smaller sections, all named after prestigious golf courses..... Anyway, in our mega community, we have 2 elementary schools, one middle school and the high school set to open next year. We have our own shopping, businesses, etc. Again, all in the Orange Park city limits, but kind of separate, too.

So I find out that the past two mornings there has been a suspicious vehicle at 6:30am following the high school kids to the bus stop. Both times the girls headed home and felt like this guy was following them. Then, I find out that one of these instances was at ALLY'S BUS STOP!!!!!! Keep in mind that there are probably 10 bus stops for each school in just our area alone..... Totally freaking out here!!! The sheriff's office is investigating both cases, but feels this is something worth pursuing. WTH???????

So today I drive Ally to school (usually I walk with her to bus stop) because she had a school project to turn in and I can't tell you how many kids I saw walking to school.... ALONE!!!! Scares the ever living out of me!!! I know parents have to work. But until this guy is caught, our kids are just not safe!!!

OK, off my soap box....... back later with another update!

Mysteria

10-29-2009, 08:03 PM

Great update Kara! I won't say anything about howler monkeys because I'm sure I'm one too. :rotfl:

OMG that poor child and her family. :sad2: The rest of the stuff is scary as hell too.

mom2shayleeandlogan

10-29-2009, 08:27 PM

Hi
All caught up with your new TR, Love it!!!!:lmao:Can't wait to read more!Your last one was one of the first I ever read and I was hooked.

MaryAz

10-29-2009, 09:23 PM

I was very sad to hear about that little girl. I am with you on some Duaghtry at AI. LOL at howler monkey. I hope the fence gives you some piece of mind.

CRdisMom

10-30-2009, 09:32 AM

totally understand the need for the fence. Unfortunately I don't think it will keep Mr. No Shoulders out :rotfl2:

I am truly amazed at how many kids walk to school alone. I still walk beth to the bus stop every morning. I hope they find the !%*^%&^%$#^%$ that did that and make them pay.

Love the sparkles.

heaven2dc

10-30-2009, 09:46 AM

This TR is a hoot!!

http://2.media.tumblr.com/oW5E9lxRrpln9wgiOP8RJN9jo1_500.jpg

(Kara - I sent you a pm - you are a great writer!)

karajeboo

10-30-2009, 05:18 PM

Great update Kara! I won't say anything about howler monkeys because I'm sure I'm one too. :rotfl:

OMG that poor child and her family. :sad2: The rest of the stuff is scary as hell too.

Thanks Mysteria!

Hi
All caught up with your new TR, Love it!!!!:lmao:Can't wait to read more!Your last one was one of the first I ever read and I was hooked.

Awwww, you are so sweet.....

I was very sad to hear about that little girl. I am with you on some Duaghtry at AI. LOL at howler monkey. I hope the fence gives you some piece of mind.

It already gives me a (probably) false sense of security! But the dog HATES it! He ran out and stood staring at it as if to say, "Get out of my way so I can poop in the woods!"

totally understand the need for the fence. Unfortunately I don't think it will keep Mr. No Shoulders out :rotfl2:

I am truly amazed at how many kids walk to school alone. I still walk beth to the bus stop every morning. I hope they find the !%*^%&^%$#^%$ that did that and make them pay.

Love the sparkles.

Uh, did you see my FB pic of Mr NoShoulders skin in my front yard??? :scared1:

This TR is a hoot!!

http://2.media.tumblr.com/oW5E9lxRrpln9wgiOP8RJN9jo1_500.jpg

(Kara - I sent you a pm - you are a great writer!)

I got it and PM'd you back! :thumbsup2

MAGICFOR2

10-30-2009, 09:46 PM

englishrose47

10-30-2009, 09:57 PM

And why may I ask did you not get up there with your LOOKS how you sang would not have mattered !!:laughing:

Come on you are ITSK!!!!!:lmao:Ellen help me out:rotfl: !!!!!

WannaBeADisMom

10-31-2009, 09:15 AM

Hey Kara,
Just wanted to say a quick "Hi" without making Ellen's worlds collide too harshly. :lmao: I'm LOVING this TR but have one complaint: I keep spraying coffee on my laptop. I seriously think we should forget the BCV in May and opt for the Mahi-Mahi. I KNOW how much you love it there, all the Dis music and happy Mickeys all over the place!
Also, sorry for all the HORRIBLE things going on down there in your area! I just don't understand these people. Hang in there and keep your Ally close!
Can't wait to meet you in May!

karajeboo

11-02-2009, 11:44 AM

Kara! Glad you enjoyed AI! We really enjoyed it, too! As for a Howler Monkey, I just can't believe your little princess could sound like that! princess:

I'm really upset about Somer and your area. I know there are alot of places where this is true, but the news said there were 68 registered sex offenders in a 5 mile radius:scared1:

It seems like everyone from school would get together and form neighborhood watches with the moms and dads who are not at work. Of course that's easy for me to say from here! :thumbsup2

Actually, there are 161 sex offenders within 5 miles, only 68 within 3 miles. I think we are about 5 or 6miles away from her house, as the crow flies..... I know we are kinda of out in the boonies, and that seems to be where they move to, since they have to be away from schools, etc. I signed up for a service where I get an email notificiation every time one moves within 5 miles of our house. Sad how many I receive!!! Why are these people released from jail????

And why may I ask did you not get up there with your LOOKS how you sang would not have mattered !!:laughing:

Come on you are ITSK!!!!!:lmao:Ellen help me out:rotfl: !!!!!

Oh, Rosie, leave it to Ellen to have lots of ITSK pics of me!!! She has quite a knack for it. And since we're locked and loaded for our DISmoms trip in April, I'm sure my covergirl shots will be all over again!!! :rotfl2:

Hey Kara,
Just wanted to say a quick "Hi" without making Ellen's worlds collide too harshly. :lmao: I'm LOVING this TR but have one complaint: I keep spraying coffee on my laptop. I seriously think we should forget the BCV in May and opt for the Mahi-Mahi. I KNOW how much you love it there, all the Dis music and happy Mickeys all over the place!
Also, sorry for all the HORRIBLE things going on down there in your area! I just don't understand these people. Hang in there and keep your Ally close!
Can't wait to meet you in May!

Hey Joan!!! OK, here's the deal. From now on only read this TR at the library, since they don't allow drinks there. Or just control yourself woman!!! Hmmmm, after all the hassle Ellen went through to get BCV, I think she'd kill us if we switched to the Mahi Mahi. Although....... it's kinda fun to get her all riled up. Maybe we should do that just for pure entertainment purposes..... ;)

tinkerbells mum

11-02-2009, 04:31 PM

still loving your TR, really sorry to hear about what has been going on near you, you just don't want to let your kids out of your sight, i'm sure i'll be walking my DD to work on her first day xx

ms mouse

11-02-2009, 04:33 PM

Love your trip report.:goodvibes

karajeboo

11-02-2009, 06:29 PM

still loving your TR, really sorry to hear about what has been going on near you, you just don't want to let your kids out of your sight, i'm sure i'll be walking my DD to work on her first day xx

Thank you!!! I know, I am so overprotective anyway, this has made me worse. I just chewed Ally out today for walking out to the mailbox without telling me.... she looked at me like I had three heads.... which isn't far off today.... :rolleyes1

Love your trip report.:goodvibes

Thank you so much! I hope to get a new installment tomorrow!

askelton

11-04-2009, 04:48 PM

MAGICFOR2

11-04-2009, 06:06 PM

Actually, there are 161 sex offenders within 5 miles, only 68 within 3 miles. I think we are about 5 or 6miles away from her house, as the crow flies..... I know we are kinda of out in the boonies, and that seems to be where they move to, since they have to be away from schools, etc. I signed up for a service where I get an email notificiation every time one moves within 5 miles of our house. Sad how many I receive!!! Why are these people released from jail????

I don't know. I've seen programs where they say they don't want to be released because they don't get any better, just worse and more violent. The world is a scarey place.:sad2:

wishspirit

11-04-2009, 06:56 PM

Great trip report! :thumbsup2

Lots of unattractive snorts of laughter from this Diser! :rotfl:

2xcited2sleep

11-05-2009, 07:02 AM

So happy to have found your TR this morning. You have definitely started my day with lots of laughs. My word, what a hullaballooo about the Mahi-Mahi on the first few pages. :scared: You handled it well!

Love your humor as always. Looking forward to more sparkles and hearing more about your trip!! :)

karajeboo

11-05-2009, 07:26 AM

I took DH to TSM Saturday for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed kicking his butt. :rolleyes1

Even though I don't have kids, I totally agree with you about watching them at the bus stop. We live off a busy street and even though there are crossing guards at the intersections, too many kids walking alone.

Angela!!!! Where you been fellow Floridian???

I don't know. I've seen programs where they say they don't want to be released because they don't get any better, just worse and more violent. The world is a scarey place.:sad2:

It's horrible! The Somer Thompson story is going to be featured this week on Americas Most Wanted. They still have no credible leads!!! That's the scary part - this person or persons are still roaming the streets!

Great trip report! :thumbsup2

Lots of unattractive snorts of laughter from this Diser! :rotfl:

There is nothing unattractive about laughter. Well, unless it involves spit. Spit is unattractive. As is drinking while you laugh and shooting liquid out your nose. Oh, and snorts. Yeah, I guess you're right - not so pretty.....

So happy to have found your TR this morning. You have definitely started my day with lots of laughs. My word, what a hullaballooo about the Mahi-Mahi on the first few pages. :scared: You handled it well!

Love your humor as always. Looking forward to more sparkles and hearing more about your trip!! :)

Thank you! I figured if she didn't get my humor then she probably didn't get the TR at all. Maybe she needed a little pixie dust but I ran out and was awaiting my next shipment .......

englishrose47

11-05-2009, 07:40 AM

Morning Kara !! I'm waiting for the next update !:surfweb::surfweb::surfweb:

karajeboo

11-05-2009, 11:01 AM

Now to my favorite part of this weekend trip!

We were off to get ready for our afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian.

So we headed to the boat to head back to the Mahi Mahi to get ready. I figured if we were gonna have afternoon tea, we were going to do it right.

So we quickly raced up to our room to change clothes - after all, this was tea!!! We weren't going to wear our park clothes, it was time for our "going out clothes!"

Once we got all dolled up, it was time to catch the bus to MK and then transfer to GF.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea1.jpg

We got ready a little early so we decided to head into MK for a bit.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK1-2.jpg

Never before have I noticed this, but it almost (okay it DID!) made me cry!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK3-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-AllyMommyMainSt.jpg

Oh, yeah, this is one happy princess taking pics for Mommy!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK5-1.jpg

Of course we packed our walking shoes for this - no way were we wearing heels into the parks. Those are the people I make fun of! And no way did I want to show up in YOUR TR as one of "those" people!

As it was, people were looking at us like we were crazy to be in the parks looking so HOTTTTTT! Not sparkly, just plain HOT!

Maybe they thought we were celebs? I should have paid a CM to be our guide just to see the looks we would get. Cause we were HOTTTTT!

That's mother/daughter hotness. Like Katie and Suri, only hotter! Like Goldie and Kate, only hotter AND younger! You get the idea.

We were not able to spend much time here, but we did manage to see Capt Jack, in all our hotness. I think he winked at me. I would if I were him, why?

Cause I was hottttt!!!!

We stopped in a shop in Adventureland and picked up hats for our tea. After all, what is afternoon tea without a hat? Would that be a topless tea? Is it even allowed in WDW?

We headed out of MK, with a promise to return the next day, and hopped the monorail to GF.

Here is my precious, innocent daughter, looking like a pole dancer. Yeah, I texted this pic to Jeff to let him know how our daughter's future was shaping up......:rolleyes1

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea96.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea2.jpg

HOly crows feet BAtman!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea4.jpg

We got to the GF about 40 minutes early but were seated almost instantly. I think Ally was a little nervous when we walked in. After all, I did tell her she had to drink with her pinky out....

Say What Mama????

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea6.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea7.jpg

I ordered the following....

The Grand Tea - The classic English tradition of Afternoon Tea, Grand Floridian style. We offer you a variety of tea sandwiches, scones and jam tarts, followed by your choice of our freshly baked tea pastries or English trifle, accompanied by a glass of Domaine Ste.-Michelle sparkling wine and your choice of tea.

I asked our server what tea she would recommend, as I usually like my tea iced. She recommended....

Mad Hatter - A blend of passion fruit, pomegranate, and vanilla for a clean and sweet finish. Perfect with decadent desserts and companions.

And may I add that it was PERFECT!!!! I drank almost the entire pot! So sweet and yummy with just a touch of cream I added!

Ally ordered....

Mrs. Potts Tea - For the young tea lover in your party, we offer a variety of tea sandwiches, tuna salad, ham and cheese, peanut butter and jelly on white bread. We serve our magical dark tea (chocolate milk), followed by a choice of two pastries

She requessted that her "tea" be served in the tea pot so she could drink from the dainty cups. This would prove to be a big mistake. But first....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea8.jpg

Oh, yeah! See that glass of champagne. I needed that. In face, I should have asked for the bottle to just chug it......

Gimme some o that Mad Hatter!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea9.jpg

Please don't ask me what each of these items were. I do know that the onion tart at 12:00 was so light and heavenly!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea90.jpg

Ally's came with pb&j, ham/cheese, and egg salad. She absolutely hates mayonnaise, and I never even thought about this. So I gladly ate her egg salad, and the nice CM replaced the ham/cheese with another pb&j. So all was well in the world.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea91.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea92.jpg

Hat head!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea93.jpg

She did it!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/GFtea95.jpg

It was right about this time, that the cup missed the mouth and that magical dark tea ended up in Ally's lap. Poor thing tried to be tough, but the little lip started quivering, and as I was dabbing and dumping club soda on her, she put her head on my shoulder and whispered, "I'm so embarassed."

She just wanted to be so proper and ladylike. Well, I guess you can take the girl out of McDonald's but you can't take the fast food out of the girl!!!

All in all it was a great experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially for a nice mother/daughter treat.

I wouldn't say I was full from the treats, but I was definitely satisfied.

So we headed out of the Tea Room with Ally's dress dripping a mixture of water, club soda, and Tide stain pen. Squishing down to the monorail and back to MK so we could hop a bus back to the Mahi Mahi.

We agreed that we would just spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool and then head out for what can only be considered an "adventure" at F&W at Epcot for the evening.....

mom2shayleeandlogan

11-05-2009, 11:13 AM

Ally looks so cute all dressed up! Would you recommend this for an almost 5 year, or wait a few years!Great update:)

katierae81

11-05-2009, 11:15 AM

I get misty everytime I see that sign at MK, I full out cry when we watch Wishes!! Poor Ally! I felt so bad for her, yet chuckled because it was so cute. :cutie: I also keep forgetting to tell you that ever since I read the DisMoms TR and saw Ally on a stick she remids me so much of that girl on the Disney channel. I think she's on Mike's Super Short Show, in between the shows. She too is a cutie and a ball of energy/spunk!

karajeboo

11-05-2009, 11:42 AM

Ally looks so cute all dressed up! Would you recommend this for an almost 5 year, or wait a few years!Great update:)

I would personally wait a couple of years until she's old enough to "get it." But it was so much fun and I can hardly wait until I can take my mom AND Ally for three generations of pinky pointing fun!

I get misty everytime I see that sign at MK, I full out cry when we watch Wishes!! Poor Ally! I felt so bad for her, yet chuckled because it was so cute. :cutie: I also keep forgetting to tell you that ever since I read the DisMoms TR and saw Ally on a stick she remids me so much of that girl on the Disney channel. I think she's on Mike's Super Short Show, in between the shows. She too is a cutie and a ball of energy/spunk!

I know which little girl you're talking about! I can see the similarity.

Oh, and just thought I should share. I got to attend Ally's awards ceremony at her school on Tuesday where she received awards for perfect attendance for the 9 week period (only about 12 kids out of 6 third grade classes got this!), and making the A/B honor roll. sooooo close to all A's - darn science!

And some Halloween pics....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/Halloween%202009/Ally1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/Halloween%202009/Ally2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/Halloween%202009/Ally3.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/Halloween%202009/Ally4.jpg

tttessa

11-06-2009, 04:48 AM

Hiya - from across the pond.....

loved the "English" high tea - never had one myself - not mixing in THOSE sort of circles obviously..:snooty:.

Keep up the great TR - am enjoying it sooo much - I love all the photos.:goodvibes

Tessa

karajeboo

11-06-2009, 08:55 AM

meeko_33785

11-06-2009, 09:19 AM

Great update. I'm not much of a hot tea drinker either, but that Mad Hatter tea sounds fantastic.

MrsSpratt

11-06-2009, 09:22 AM

Hi, Kara! (I think that is right....)

I actually think it is perfect that some of the "special dark tea" made it into your DD's lap - ladies (and princesses!) have to learn to deal with ANYTHING, and you showed her what a good queen does: Tide pen, club soda, and then go relax at the pool!

I'm just in love with the Sparkly McSparklesons - and keep your girl safe!

Prayers for your community -

Mrs (Jaime) Spratt

karajeboo

11-06-2009, 10:58 AM

Great update. I'm not much of a hot tea drinker either, but that Mad Hatter tea sounds fantastic.

It was!!! So fruity and sweet. I would love to find it around here. But there is no way I'd take the time to brew it and then "sift" it (don't know the proper term for that!!!). Just gimme my coffee and I'm good to go!

Hi, Kara! (I think that is right....)

I actually think it is perfect that some of the "special dark tea" made it into your DD's lap - ladies (and princesses!) have to learn to deal with ANYTHING, and you showed her what a good queen does: Tide pen, club soda, and then go relax at the pool!

I'm just in love with the Sparkly McSparklesons - and keep your girl safe!

Prayers for your community -

Mrs (Jaime) Spratt

The best part of the whole thing is that there is no stain in the dress! Even when we left it was only slightly visible. But little princess just wanted to get back and change so nobody could see it.

tinkerbells mum

11-06-2009, 01:38 PM

love the afternoon tea pictures, Ally can pinky point with the best of them!!!

MAGICFOR2

11-07-2009, 03:06 AM

Aww, you both looked so beautiful! I love the hats - Ally looks so adorable in hers. She's really photogenic! Too bad about the spilled "tea" bless her heart. I hope she forgot about it quickly!

Love the halloween pics!

tttessa

11-07-2009, 03:14 AM

It was!!! So fruity and sweet. I would love to find it around here. But there is no way I'd take the time to brew it and then "sift" it (don't know the proper term for that!!!). Just gimme my coffee and I'm good to go!

Kara - the word you are after is strain....... we use a tea strainer for real tea leaves from a teapot. You could use a tea bag, or a diffuser ball though - a little ball with perforations that you put in your cup/mug and pour the water over - like a metal teabag I guess...

Tessa

karajeboo

11-07-2009, 06:41 AM

love the afternoon tea pictures, Ally can pinky point with the best of them!!!

Just so long as that's the only finger she learns to point!!! :rolleyes1

Aww, you both looked so beautiful! I love the hats - Ally looks so adorable in hers. She's really photogenic! Too bad about the spilled "tea" bless her heart. I hope she forgot about it quickly!

Love the halloween pics!

She is photogenic. I snap quick pics of her all the time and she always looks good. Not that I'm biased or anything.....

Kara - the word you are after is strain....... we use a tea strainer for real tea leaves from a teapot. You could use a tea bag, or a diffuser ball though - a little ball with perforations that you put in your cup/mug and pour the water over - like a metal teabag I guess...

Tessa

Well, like you said, I guess I wasn't raised in those circles either! :rotfl2: Hello, my name is Kara and I "sift" my tea!!! :lmao:

Tessa, you would be appalled at our tea over here. We only use tea bags, I've never used real tea leaves, although that might be a challenge to try sometime.

englishrose47

11-07-2009, 08:15 AM

Tell Ally it's is an English Tradition that the first time you drink "pinky" style that you spill some in your lap!!;);) Now this is coming from one who would know !!!:lmao:

Love the pix !!!:love:

askelton

11-09-2009, 02:44 PM

I love that you wore hats! :lovestruc I would wear a hat every day if I could, but so far it's only when Tiggerbell comes in town and we go to tea, which we will be doing next month. You're right about tea. Definitely recommend it. :thumbsup2

karajeboo

11-23-2009, 06:40 PM

Hey everyone! Thanks for hanging in there with me - been crazy busy and now the inlaws are due to arrive tomorrow so gotta get cleaned up! :scared1: Will try to get an installment up tomorrow or Wednesday.....

Oh, and hit Epcot yesterday just for the day! Ate at Biergarten for the first time - soooo fun! I'll fill y'all in soon!

englishrose47

11-23-2009, 08:30 PM

MaryAz

11-23-2009, 08:51 PM

Great update, you all were very hooottt!! I agree with Ally on the mayo YUCK!! Poor girl with the "dark tea" Glad the dress was not stained.

karajeboo

11-24-2009, 03:13 PM

Tell Ally it's is an English Tradition that the first time you drink "pinky" style that you spill some in your lap!!;);) Now this is coming from one who would know !!!:lmao:

Love the pix !!!:love:

I told her this and she didn't buy it.....:confused3

I love that you wore hats! :lovestruc I would wear a hat every day if I could, but so far it's only when Tiggerbell comes in town and we go to tea, which we will be doing next month. You're right about tea. Definitely recommend it. :thumbsup2

I had an old floppy hat I used to wear all the time.... don't know what happened to that old friend.....

I liked it too and definately want to do it again!!!

I loved the entertainment and I thought it was a better atmosphere than San Angel Inn!!!!

Great update, you all were very hooottt!! I agree with Ally on the mayo YUCK!! Poor girl with the "dark tea" Glad the dress was not stained.

Ouch! that was me singing my finger over our hotttttness! :rotfl2:

karajeboo

11-24-2009, 03:42 PM

AFter we left our pinky pointing tea at GF, we headed back to the Mahi Mahi to change and eventually head to Epcot to "experience" the Food and Wine festival.

But Ally had other plans. I usually let her lead the way on our girls only trips, and she decided she wanted to swim. So the sparkly girls were off to the pool!

So we changed into our sparkly suits and headed to the pools. Down the hall, down the elevator, around the corner, pass the spa, down the escalator, and out the door.

Now I must admit that the pool area was beautiful. It was very much a resort pool, minus Goofy spewing water or Mickey painted on the bottom of the pool.

Look to the left....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin92.jpg

Look to the right....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin93.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin94.jpg

Standing at the lap pool looking back at the Mahi Mahi...

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin96.jpg

Another pool...

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin97.jpg

Looking between the two pools toward the main pool....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin98.jpg

Looking back toward lap pool and pool bar. Can you say $18 for a pina colada and a nada colada for Ally?

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin99.jpg

Standing on bridge looking down on part of the main pool

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin990.jpg

Main pool

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin991.jpg

Ally on slide

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin992.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin993.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin994.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin995.jpg

Only natural that this photo would soon follow the pole dancing photo from the monorail.....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/Dolphin996.jpg

The pool complex was freakin HUGE!!!!! I think I counted 4 pools, and the main pool was so large it had three different sections. Very nice area and very clean. And it was nice to see the lake from the pool decks.

We only stayed about an hour, and then it was time to shower and head into Epcot for dinner at F&W.

I guess I should have known it would be an adventure when we boarded our boat launch, and the group boarding behind us was carrying paper cups of wine, and the "leader" was wearing a veil with condoms attached.

Yes. I said condoms.....

Up next, F&W at Epcot and why this was NOT a child friendly adventure!

tttessa

11-25-2009, 04:34 AM

Love the pools - and the bikini in the waterfall moment - you auditioning your girl for something??:lmao:

Thanks for the heads up on the F+W at Epcot - we will be there next year.... so come on.... I neeeeeeeed more info!!!! You are providing a civic service here!!

Tessa

karajeboo

11-25-2009, 01:14 PM

podsnel

11-25-2009, 06:31 PM

Next installment girlfriend! Be patient!!! Let's just say F&W + Saturday night = frat party.......

::yes:: Besides that, it's sooooo crowded and hard to get near anything! Much, much better during the week. :thumbsup2

englishrose47

11-25-2009, 07:11 PM

Condoms on a veil!!!!:confused3This is Not an English Tradition:rotfl2: I am awaiting further details .. howeverin true British styleI am doing it patiently!!!!:lmao:Yes my pinky is raised as I sip my yankee coffee!!!:lmao:

MAGICFOR2

11-26-2009, 02:40 AM

I've heard of people pinning dollar bills to a bride's veil at a reception - maybe the condom pinning is a new tradition! :scared1:

karajeboo

12-08-2009, 12:11 PM

I'm baaaaaack!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Now it's on to shopping, and parties, and shopping, and more parties and finally CHRISTMAS!!!!

But back to the TR at hand......

I left off getting ready to head over to Epcot for dinner during F&W. I regretted this decision the minute we got on the launch from the Mahi Mahi to Epcot.

We sat down and who should we see boarding and making their way right toward us?

A bachelorette party. Or as I like to call them, the McNastys.

Now don't get me wrong.... I'm no prude and I think a bachelorette party can be tons of fun..... in the right venue.

Disney World is definitely the WRONG venue!

The McNastys arrived with plastic cups full of Boones Farm or Mad Dog, not sure which. But judging by the McNasty's, it definitely wasn't Rothschild, if you know what I mean.... ;)

Ally and I were tucked into our bench seat by the window, and the McNasty's decided to sit on our seat, the seat in front, and then the two seats across the aisle.

And they talked. Openly. Crudely. Very descriptive.

They described their own bachelorette parties, and their husbands' bachelor parties.

All to the wonderment of children all around them.

At one point I gave "the look." You all know the look I mean. And I gave it good. But the MD 20/20 must have kicked in cause they didn't care.

The bride was already three sheets to the wind, and the wind was a flappin that veil. That was beautifully adorned with condoms.

And did I mention the lovely blushing bride was with child? Yeah, my guess is about 5 months along..... Nice. Classy.

I waited. For the questions. From an 8 year old. The questions that never came. Luckily.

Luckily for the McNastys or I might have had to open a can of McSparkly Whoop A**!

I actually had my speech ready. I was going to tap the bride, or one of her McNasty girls on the shoulder and ask them to please explain the adornments to my daughter. Very sweetly. Sugary. Sickeningly.

But the opportunity never arose.

As we were getting off the boat, I whipped out my hand sanitizer, and the young couple sitting behind us tapped me on the shoulder and asked me how I kept my mouth shut. We had a good laugh over the McNastys at that point, and made our way to the WS entrance.

The minute we walked through, I felt like Alice falling down the rabbit hole. And even as I looked left toward the UK, looking for my sister from another mister Alice, I knew that even she was too afraid to come out for the night.

It was a zoo. A mad house. A nightmare!!!! People EVERYWHERE!!!!

And I'm spoiled. Because we are lucky enough to go to Disney during slow periods specifically to avoid these crowds.

But hey, I'm in Disney, right? Better than being in work on a good day, right? Eh, maybe.....

We turned left over the bridge and decided to check out some of the goodies being offered at the F&W kiosks.

And there was absolutely nothing that appealed to Ally. And I decided that I would only stand in line once. There were no less than about 10 people in line at each kiosk.

And I wanted to be able to get our food, and find a little out of the way spot to plot down and eat. Because as crowded as it was, I would not be able to eat on the go, for fear of losing Ally and not being able to hold her hand.

So we finally got in line for pretzels around Germany. Yes, pretzels. With all the wonderful and exotic food, we were in line for pretzels. Because Ally wanted pretzels and I didn't want to argue.

Besides, where there are pretzels in Germany, there is...... BEER!!!!! Ally moved off to the side where there was a large grassy field and she and the girls behind us started doing cartwheels and playing.

Until one of the little girls came running over screaming and holding her arm. The parents, obviously having more than one child, were quite experienced and immediately told her she was fine and within a minute she was moving her arm and back doing cartwheels. If that had been me I would have been calling for a medic and immediately planning my escape route from the park.

Anywho...... once I got to the front of the line, I was told they were out of pretzels!!!! Yes, Germany is out of pretzels!!!! So having nothing for the beer to wash down, I left empty handed.

We continued around WS, bumping all the frat boys along the way.

At least they appeared to be frat boys. I believe every 21-25 year old in the greater Orlando area decided to cut loose at Epcot this night. The language was horrible! :scared1:

The beer was being consumed faster than the Germans could change the kegs! Half of it was being dribbled along the WS like Hansel and Gretel leaving their trail.

It stank. Like stale beer. All over. REally just not a pretty sight at all.

We stopped a couple of times to catch shows, and of course we just had to play Kim Possible! This is a must do for us each time we are in Epcot! And it helped to take my mind off all the antics around us.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/EpcotKP1-1.jpg

Before long we were in Mexico. Knowing that Ally and I both love the Cantina de San Angel, we decided to stop and eat. Yes. During F&W, we sampled none of the food. Or drink.

But the way Cantina is set up, Ally was able to snag a table right by the water and I could watch her from the line. So we would be able to catch Illuminations from our spot and all is well, right?

Well, almost........

I was absolutely spent from all the pushing and shoving around WS. They changed the menu at Cantina and I really didn't like what I got. Ally was laying her head down on the table. It had been a long night.

So I asked her. "Do you want to stay and watch Illuminations or head back to the Mahi Mahi?"

She decided to go. Which was THE best decision made all weekend!

We fought our way back to the WS entrance, saw a boat at the dock, and raced to catch it just before they closed the gate. So we settled in to our seats on the back for a nice open air ride back to the Mahi when, right before we stopped at the BW, the bottom fell out of the sky.

Literally.

The rain was coming in sideways and we were soaked before we could even get inside.

Now this is where the Mahi Mahi ROCKS!!! It is the only resort that has a covered walkway all the way from the boat dock to the resort. Never knew just how important that might be, but trust me. It was very important.

So Ally decided that she was just about the smartest little girl around. Because if she had not decided to come back, we would have been stuck at Epcot in the monsoon. And it did not let up until well after closing time. It rained for HOURS like that.....

Whew! Barely escaped all that.

So I got Ally tucked in, and grabbed one of my Diet Cokes, that I would NOT be leaving behind the next day, and relaxed with my laptop for awhile before going to sleep myself.

Up next, Ally leads the parade at Crystal Palace!!!!

podsnel

12-08-2009, 01:08 PM

So that McSparkly Whoop A$$...is there a 20% discount when you buy it by the case??? :rotfl:

Ugh...I didn't know the drunk bride was pregnant- that's HORRIBLE on top of all of the rest of it being HORRIBLE!!! :scared1: So glad it went right over Ally's head. Those girls would not have been as lucky if I had been on that boat. I would have released some NJ Whoop A$$...it comes in a SUPERsize can!! :rotfl:

wishspirit

12-08-2009, 01:38 PM

The bride was already three sheets to the wind, and the wind was a flappin that veil. That was beautifully adorned with condoms.

And did I mention the lovely blushing bride was with child? Yeah, my guess is about 5 months along..... Nice. Classy.

Makes you think she should of been using them rather than making them into headwear, but there we go!

Disney a place for boozie hen nights? I think not!!

I would of gone ballistic at them too, and I don't even have kids! I wonder how you can be so restrained! :sad2:

I am glad you made it before the rain came down! What a way to end a day!

Great update! :thumbsup2

CRdisMom

12-08-2009, 02:15 PM

McSparkly NJ Whoop A$$....that would be priceless. It is crazy that people are that insensitive. I don't get it. I will just make sure that we aren't at Epcot on a Sat night when we go next year.

Ally is a smart kid for leaving.

podsnel

12-08-2009, 05:38 PM

McSparkly NJ Whoop A$$- I believe it involves flipping a table...in a very classy way, of course... ;) :rotfl:

MaryAz

12-08-2009, 08:31 PM

Oh man, I would have been LIVID. Lordy. No pretzels in Germany, a changed menu. Good thing you went back, ah diet coke!

meeko_33785

12-08-2009, 09:31 PM

Sorry to hear about the evenng. At least you beat the rain back though so it didn't end on as bad of a note as it could have.

englishrose47

12-08-2009, 10:04 PM

Lively ,humorous ,entertaining .... shallI continue !! Great job Kara !!

MAGICFOR2

12-09-2009, 02:14 AM

I know you talked about this before on our thread, but it makes me mad all over again! :mad: How could those bridezilla-ettes think it would be remotely okay to conduct themselves like that at WDW? Or the Frat Boys for that matter? :sad2: Good thing you dodged the rain!:thumbsup2

karajeboo

12-09-2009, 12:19 PM

So that McSparkly Whoop A$$...is there a 20% discount when you buy it by the case??? :rotfl:

No, but you can use your TIW card and get 20% off.... including alcohol!!!

Makes you think she should of been using them rather than making them into headwear, but there we go!

Disney a place for boozie hen nights? I think not!!

I would of gone ballistic at them too, and I don't even have kids! I wonder how you can be so restrained! :sad2:

I am glad you made it before the rain came down! What a way to end a day!

Great update! :thumbsup2

I think I was so restrained because I was in shock. Seriously. I'm sure a few flies made their way into my mouth as my chin was on the floor through most of the boat ride.

McSparkly NJ Whoop A$$....that would be priceless. It is crazy that people are that insensitive. I don't get it. I will just make sure that we aren't at Epcot on a Sat night when we go next year.

Ally is a smart kid for leaving.

Of course she is, she takes after her mama!!! :rolleyes1

Oh man, I would have been LIVID. Lordy. No pretzels in Germany, a changed menu. Good thing you went back, ah diet coke!

It was a crazy night! Don't they know who I am? Didn't they see the aura around us as we approached the pretzel stand? We are the McSparklesons!!!!! But alas, must have been some new German students and they hadn't been schooled in the ways of all things sparkly.... ;)

Sorry to hear about the evenng. At least you beat the rain back though so it didn't end on as bad of a note as it could have.

I felt SOOOOO bad for everyone stuck in the parks that night! Well, except for the McNasty party..... and all the drunks at Epcot. But it was a HARD rain, and it lasted a long time so there was no escaping it! And because it was night, you couldn't see it rolling in.

Lively ,humorous ,entertaining .... shallI continue !! Great job Kara !!

Thanks Rosie! You are so good for my ego!

I know you talked about this before on our thread, but it makes me mad all over again! :mad: How could those bridezilla-ettes think it would be remotely okay to conduct themselves like that at WDW? Or the Frat Boys for that matter? :sad2: Good thing you dodged the rain!:thumbsup2

I know, right??? I mean, sure, I like to partake in a beverage (or 4) while in World Showcase, too, but never to the point I'm all sloppy!!! It was weird to see packs of young adults, too....

karajeboo

12-11-2009, 03:55 PM

Reporting LIVE from wdw!!! With my new iPhone disboard app! Spent day at dhs now checking in to wilderness lodge - of course there will be a new tr!!!!!!

Mysteria

12-11-2009, 11:45 PM

Yikes!! I have something to say about those "ladies" :rolleyes: but I can't say stuff like that here. I am so glad I have never experienced that craziness at F&W. I think I'll continue to go early on a weekday to get my fill.

Yes I will drink at 11am rather than be amongst bridezllas and frat boys. :rotfl:

You're there now!! :cool1:

Wicket's Mom

12-12-2009, 02:47 PM

Oh how I wish that I were there now! :sad1:

Good for you, holding your tongue. Let your daughter see who was the fool!

englishrose47

12-12-2009, 07:49 PM

Thanks Rosie! You are so good for my ego!

That'sbecuz I am EGO tistical!!!:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

karajeboo

12-12-2009, 08:32 PM

That mcsparkly whoop a$$ has almost been opened a few times this trip! Details to follow!!!

MAGICFOR2

12-13-2009, 01:07 AM

That mcsparkly whoop a$$ has almost been opened a few times this trip! Details to follow!!!

Making friends everywhere you go, I see! :rotfl2: Did you get the pic of Donald celebrating with the Oregon Ducks? He got in trouble last year for beating up a Calif Bear - you know Donald has a temper! :lmao:

BriesMomma

12-13-2009, 12:47 PM

This trip report is freakin great! I don't know if I'd have been able to keep quiet with Ms. Drinking for 2!! :rotfl:

karajeboo

12-14-2009, 05:18 PM

Oh how I wish that I were there now! :sad1:

Good for you, holding your tongue. Let your daughter see who was the fool!

Well...... I didn't quite hold my tongue this past weekend. But I can't divulge all the details now!!! You'll have to read my NEW TR that I will start shortly.

That'sbecuz I am EGO tistical!!!:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

All I know is that you are NUTS!!!;)

Making friends everywhere you go, I see! :rotfl2: Did you get the pic of Donald celebrating with the Oregon Ducks? He got in trouble last year for beating up a Calif Bear - you know Donald has a temper! :lmao:

Uh, yeah, I was copping a major attitude this weekend. I just got tired of being pushed, shoved, cut in front of, etc. And it was all weekend, so I got a little lippy at times.

This trip report is freakin great! I don't know if I'd have been able to keep quiet with Ms. Drinking for 2!! :rotfl:

I'll give y'all a hint.... 30 something men sitting on bus while children and older women stood. I just couldn't keep my mouth shut any more. And that was just the FIRST episode of "<static, static> security, the McSparklesons are back and they are causing trouble......" But we were NOT the troublemakers! We were the ones fighting for truth, justice, and the American way!!!! Or something along those lines....:rolleyes1

englishrose47

12-14-2009, 05:25 PM

EXCUSE ME!!! I am Nuts this from the famous ITSK !!!:rotfl2:You better link me to the new TR!!!! or is it PTR??:)

katierae81

12-14-2009, 05:53 PM

OMG...the people on the busses drove me nuts this past week too!! There was one time a younger guy (maybe 17-21) that was sitting down playing and/or texting on his phone while a much older couple stood right in front of him and his friend. If it wasn't for having my sleeping DS4 in my lap I would've gone off.

karajeboo

12-16-2009, 12:17 PM

EXCUSE ME!!! I am Nuts this from the famous ITSK !!!:rotfl2:You better link me to the new TR!!!! or is it PTR??:)

Nuts Nuts Nuts!!!!! :rotfl2:

OMG...the people on the busses drove me nuts this past week too!! There was one time a younger guy (maybe 17-21) that was sitting down playing and/or texting on his phone while a much older couple stood right in front of him and his friend. If it wasn't for having my sleeping DS4 in my lap I would've gone off.

It seems to get worse each trip. I just don't understand people. But this guy actually went off on ME!!! For commenting, not exactly under my breath, when Ally asked why she had to stand. It was kind of funny actually.

I will be starting the new TR hopefully this week and I'll let y'all know! But first I need to get this one wrapped up!

karajeboo

12-16-2009, 12:36 PM

So after our drunken bash the night before, it was time to pack up, load the car and head to Magic Kingdom for the day!

As usual, we were there for rope drop, and as usual, I cried. I'm a mess at Disney. Parades, character greetings, fireworks, singing. I cry. All the time. But it truly is so magical, just knowing that Disney does this 365 days a year. Making dreams come true.

Wow, I really am sappy, huh?

So once we headed through the gates, got my fist glimpse (of the day!) of the castle, cried again, then took the teasing from Ally, it was time to head down Main St.

Then Ally say Chip n Dale and wanted to wait in line for photos. Well, the time had come for me to put my big ole croc covered foot down. I know she loves those stupid squirrels (call them that to their furry faces and see the reaction you'll get!!!), but she sees them EVERY time and sometimes more than once. We were on a mission today.

So I finally convinced her to head over toward Splash to grab FPs. This is our normal routine. Get FP for Splash then ride BTMRR standby (all of 5 minute wait). Next over to Pirates and Aladdin's Magic Carpets, basically Dumbo on a rug. Oh, well, it gives a nice view of Adventureland.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Aladdin2-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Aladdin3.jpg

And who could say no to this face???? So Dumbo on a rug it is!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKAladdinfly.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKAladdin.jpg

By now it was time for our Splash FPs so off we go! Then back through Fantasyland where IASW was closed. Darn! ;) Actually, I do love it. But as frequently as we go, I just can't do it every time.

And of course, where have Ally and I stood in line for an average of an hour and a half each of our last 3 visits?

The dang fairies!!! She is on a quest to meet Silvermist. Why? I have no idea!!!! But Ally loves blue, and Silvermist wears blue. So there you have the logic of an 8 year old!

So we get in line. We wait. And wait. And wait.

One hour and 45 minutes later......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies1.jpg

LIFE IS COMPLETE NOW!!!!!! Silvermist was here! In case you're wondering, the fairies trade off. Tink is always there, with either Silvermist and Fawn or Rosetta and Iridessa. And we've seen our share of Rosetta and Iridessa.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies3-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies4.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies5.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies7.jpg

Now let me just tell you, Fawn was AWESOME! I made those crazy princess shirts for Ally and me, remember?

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/allyfun.png

Fawn got a look at it, and asked Ally which was her favorite crazy pose. Then they decided to duplicate it. She was soooo fun!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-Fairies8.jpg

Of all the beautiful castle pics, and nice prim and proper Sleeping Beauty pics, this is one of my favorite pics of Ally in Disney!!!!

After our 3 hour tour, a 3 hour tourrrrrrr, the weather started getting rough, the McSparklesons were lost..... well, not really, but I had to continue the song. Actually, not 3 hours, but it sure seemed like it. That line just does not move! But Ally was happy, and when Ally is happy, I'm happy.

And the weather was starting to get rough. As we made our way to Crystal Palace for a looooooong wait crowded on the front porch to get out of the rain.

We were nearly one hour late getting seated, and people were VERY ugly. I was honestly waiting for a fist fight at one point. But think about it. It's pouring rain outside. You are finishing up your meal inside. Are YOU going to rush to leave? And neither did anyone inside, which is what caused the delay.

And hey? What can you do but wait? So we did. But it was all worth it!!!!

Up next, Ally leads the Piglet parade!!!!

karajeboo

12-16-2009, 01:16 PM

Here's the link to my TR from this past weekend!!!

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34679049#post34679049

MAGICFOR2

12-16-2009, 06:17 PM

Gotta love those fairies!

JackTwo

12-16-2009, 07:04 PM

Well, I didn't, that's for sure! But guess what? The rate I secured, you know that "killer" rate? Yeah, by now it's killing me!!! Because I was REQUIRED to take this special daily deal each day. So now my rate is $109.99 each day. Still a good rate, right?

Oh, did I mention the $9/day self parking? That rate is now nearly $120/day. Still a good rate, right? Hmmmm, beginning to wonder......

The only way to stay at a Disney owned properties within walking distance of any of the four theme parks is to stay at a deluxe resort. No way are you going to find a $120 rate at ANY Disney deluxe resort at WDW. To stay at the Swan/Dolphin, you are really paying to stay at the prime location next to the Boardwalk and within walking distance of EPCOT and DHS. As far as the property itself, it's not exactly a dump. The grotto pool area is as good as any Disney owned property and the collection of restaurants (Bluezoo, Kimonos, Fresh, Garden Grill, Shulas, etc.) is as good as any Disney property as well. Also, as you pointed out, the heavenly beds at the Swan/Dolphin blow away the beds at any of the Disney resorts. Sure, the non-view rooms have a horrible view...but if you're are spending alot of time in your room at WDW, you are missing out.

Mysteria

12-16-2009, 11:30 PM

LOVE those shirts!!

englishrose47

12-17-2009, 12:10 AM

Loved those T Shirts !!!!!

karajeboo

12-17-2009, 07:52 AM

Gotta love those fairies!

I used to love those fairies. Until I've spent 4 hrs and 45 minutes waiting in line (over three different times). Actually, who can resist Tinkerbell??? She's adorable!

The only way to stay at a Disney owned properties within walking distance of any of the four theme parks is to stay at a deluxe resort. No way are you going to find a $120 rate at ANY Disney deluxe resort at WDW. To stay at the Swan/Dolphin, you are really paying to stay at the prime location next to the Boardwalk and within walking distance of EPCOT and DHS. As far as the property itself, it's not exactly a dump. The grotto pool area is as good as any Disney owned property and the collection of restaurants (Bluezoo, Kimonos, Fresh, Garden Grill, Shulas, etc.) is as good as any Disney property as well. Also, as you pointed out, the heavenly beds at the Swan/Dolphin blow away the beds at any of the Disney resorts. Sure, the non-view rooms have a horrible view...but if you're are spending alot of time in your room at WDW, you are missing out.

Oh, believe me, I know this. I've stayed all levels of Disney property, but decided to go "off property" while staying on..... :confused3 I'm a Disney girl. And as much as I love the location, I missed the Disney inside the Mahi Mahi. And I don't mean Mickey on every available wall space, I mean theming. We were just at WL this weekend and it was so beautiful inside. And just about the only Mickey I saw was in the gift shop. But to me the Mahi Mahi is a hotel. Even Pop Century had more character for me.....

LOVE those shirts!!

Thank you!

Loved those T Shirts !!!!!

We got lots of attention with those! It was fun!

englishrose47

12-17-2009, 09:29 PM

Nutso saying Hi!!!!:lmao:

karajeboo

12-18-2009, 10:51 AM

I left off on the front porch of Crystal Palace, waiting for our ADR - it was pouring outside and the natives were getting restless.

The poor CMs were trying to keep a lane open to exit, but people were crowding in and flat out telling the CMs where to stick it. Whatever "it" might be. But it got ugly. I felt so bad for the CMs who were really stuck between that proverbial rock and hard place.

But what made it really entertaining, was the young gal who was calling out names to be seated, couldn't speak English well AT ALL. She butchered every name she called and that created even more chaos.

So finally some man would start peering over her shoulder, and after she called out "Es-m-it" - he would holler "Smith!" Then as parties got called, the whole porch would start to cheer! Because we went a looooong time in between tables being called.

Like I said, the folks all dry inside were lingering, and everyone outside was about 45 minutes to an hour late being sat. But what are you gonna do?

So we were entertained by the guy who helped call names. Cause that's how easily we are entertained in Disney.

Finally, the rains stopped, and our table was called. This was our first visit to CP and I was a bit skeptical - A) Ally no longer likes the Pooh characters, and B) I wasn't thrilled by another buffet.

But it was so pretty inside!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP97.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP98.jpg

And no sooner had we sat down and ordered drinks, when who should come tap on Ally's shoulder?

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP95-1.jpg

Piglet! He took her by the hand, and instructed her (in Pigletese) to bring her napkin with her. Lucky for the rest of the diners in CP that we hadn't eaten yet, or Ally would have been flinging crumbs everywhere!!!

So Ally was Piglets date for the parade around CP!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP3.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP4.jpg

She was mortified. This kid does not like to be the center of attention, so she was very timid. Yes. My Ally. Timid. But when all was said and done, CP is now one of her favorite places to eat at WDW because she was picked. She was special.

And according to Ally, "They only pick one chld each week." Uh, okay. Whatever you say, dear. ;)

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP2.jpg

The rest of the crew showed up too an then IT happened when Piglet came by for the second time.

After hugging Piglet again, Ally sat down and looked at me with tears in her eyes.

Me: What's wrong?
Ally: That's not the real Piglet.
Me: What do you mean?
Ally: I felt a zipper in his back. I think it's just someone in a costume.

Oh oh. What do I do now?

So I did what any rational mother would do.

I texted Jeff, who was on some golf course in GA with his buddies.

And his reply? "I don't know what you've done to my daughter but you'd better fix it!" :rotfl2:

Well, there goes our "Parents of the Year" award..... again!

So I turned back to Ally and tried to reason with her. After all, there must be a way to reason this out, right?

Me: Well, if that's not the real Piglet.....
Ally: I think the real Piglet is in the character spot back in Fantasyland. Maybe he just couldn't get here in time.
Me: Exactly!

So according to Ally, there IS a real Piglet, just not a CP. So we escaped the realization one more time!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP92.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP94.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP5.jpg

Now let me just say, as far as the food went, I was pleasantly surprised! My favorite buffet so far is Boma, by a landslide! But CP was very good, with some "different" foods available.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP6.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP7-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP8-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP9-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP90-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP91-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-CP1.jpg

When we left CP a short time later, the sun was back out and we were off to Epcot to meet up with my DISbud and fellow DIS mom Ellen! She was with her DH this trip and we all wanted to meet. After all, he might want to meet one of the gals who shared a room with his wife last spring (and again THIS spring!!!).

karajeboo

12-20-2009, 10:02 AM

What is this? I give y'all an update and you ignore me? Oh, I get it, you're all over at my NEW TR from last weekend. Okay, I forgive you......

After all, it's Christmas! And in case I don't get a chance before Friday....

http://www.christmas-corner.com/images/christmas-smileys/santahat.gifMerry Christmas!!!!http://www.christmas-corner.com/images/christmas-smileys/santahat.gif

tttessa

12-20-2009, 10:53 AM

Love the update Kara - i'm still with you buddie!!! Merry Christmas to you and yours too!!!

Tessa

Wicket's Mom

12-20-2009, 04:12 PM

I'm still here anxiously awaiting the rest of the story.....! Also, hooking onto the new one. Keep them coming!:cheer2:

englishrose47

12-20-2009, 04:36 PM

Sorry Kara !!! I am one who was over on the other thread being insulted:rotfl2:
Maybe you wont insult me on this one:lmao::lmao:

CP is my favorite supper buffet ! They have the BEST rolls in the world ! The shrimp and the mussels are great as well !! Feb will be the first timeI haven't done CP but it is closed :sad2:

meeko_33785

12-20-2009, 09:22 PM

I think I'm all caught up with your report again. Just got back from Disney again and I'm so behind on everyone's trip reports. :sad2:

LOL about "Dumbo on a rug". I love it.

An hour and 45 minutes for the Fairies? I can't even imagine waiting in that line for that long! The picture of her with Fawn is too great though.

Despite the Piglet realization, sounds like a fun time at Crystal Palace.

MaryAz

12-20-2009, 10:34 PM

Still here, I am glad she still believes. I was sad when on our trip last May my DD figured out Tink was on a wire and not really flying over the castle. I hope she still believes in the characters this time.

karajeboo

12-21-2009, 08:30 AM

Love the update Kara - i'm still with you buddie!!! Merry Christmas to you and yours too!!!

Tessa

Thanx Tessa! Hope Santa (or is it Father Christmas!) brings you everything you want! ;)

I'm still here anxiously awaiting the rest of the story.....! Also, hooking onto the new one. Keep them coming!:cheer2:

Sorry Kara !!! I am one who was over on the other thread being insulted:rotfl2:
Maybe you wont insult me on this one:lmao::lmao:

CP is my favorite supper buffet ! They have the BEST rolls in the world ! The shrimp and the mussels are great as well !! Feb will be the first timeI haven't done CP but it is closed :sad2:

I'll try not to insult you .... this time! :rotfl:

I think I'm all caught up with your report again. Just got back from Disney again and I'm so behind on everyone's trip reports. :sad2:

LOL about "Dumbo on a rug". I love it.

An hour and 45 minutes for the Fairies? I can't even imagine waiting in that line for that long! The picture of her with Fawn is too great though.

Despite the Piglet realization, sounds like a fun time at Crystal Palace.

And imagine THREE times waiting in that fairy line - just to meet Silvermist! But it was all worth it.... for Fawn! She was amazing!

Still here, I am glad she still believes. I was sad when on our trip last May my DD figured out Tink was on a wire and not really flying over the castle. I hope she still believes in the characters this time.

The first time Ally noticed Tink on a wire, I told her that it was because it was windy and they didn't want her to blow away. She bought it. But she wasn't flying this last time because it really was too windy!

karajeboo

12-29-2009, 08:31 AM

After our nice meal and fun times at CP, it was time to boogie over to Epcot to meet up with my wonderful DISbud Ellen (podsnel). She was in the World with her DH to experience F&W and I was desparately hoping to hook up with her.

I was worried because of the long wait we had at CP but she told me they would be at Epcot and to hurry on over!

As we were leaving MK we caught a bit of the Move It Shake It Celebrate It parade. Ally gets so mad at me when I see this parade. I sing loud and proud!!!!

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-parade1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-parade2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-parade3-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MK-parade3-1.jpg

I was gettin my white girl groove on, as Ally pulled me to the entrance....

"Hey get up, get louuuuuuud! We're pumpin up the party now!"

Oh, almost forgot something! Guess my pics aren't as organized as I like to think.....

Earlier in the day, while in Frontierland, look who we saw! And Ally danced with them!!! Well, if you can call the hokey pokey a dance.....

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokey1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokey2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokey2.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokey4.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokey5.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHOkeyPokey7.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKHokeyPokeyBrerRabbit-1.jpg

I was frantically digging through her bag for her autograph book cause we've got separate pages for all the Brer critters, but sadly they were not signing..... just hokey pokeying.....

Back through Adventureland (see? I told you I was disorganized!), we came across Capt Jack's pirate tutorial.

Then, it happened. Ally was asked to participate!!!! :cool1: And ya know what she said???

"No thank you."

WHAT??????? Is this my child??? "No thank you?????" Who is this child and what happened to Ally?

So I raised my hand and hollered, "PICK ME PICK ME CAPT JACK!!!!"

OK, so I didn't really do that. But in my heart I did.......

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKPirateTutorial2-1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/MKPirateTutorial3.jpg

Just look at him in all his dingy, dirty glory! Who would say NO to Capt Jack????

I was sad the rest of the day......

OK, now back to leaving MK for Epcot.....

I was texting Ellen as we were on the monorail, so they met us right up front.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/WDW%200909/EpcotwithEllen-1.jpg

It was so awesome to see her and meet Pods. Ellen got Ally a cute little NY Princess shirt, and of course I made her say "New Yawk" for Ally! :rotfl2: Love ya Ellen!!!!

Soon Ellen announced she was thirsty and we headed to....... Club Kool..... cause, well, you know, Pods had never tried Ally's "favorite" soda.... the BEVERLY!!!!

As soon as we got in there, Ally announced that Beverly was her favorite, and "here Mr Pods, you have GOT to try this one!"

I need to steal the pic from Ellen cause his face told the story! Next Ally tried to offer him a different one and he looked at her, stone faced and said, "why should I trust YOU?" :rotfl2:

It was beautifully orchestrated!!!!

At this point, it was time to say our good-byes, and head out through the IG to grab our car at the Mahi.

I'm sad this TR is over because when will I ever get to tell my tales of the Mahi Mahi again? In fact, when will I ever be able to even mention the Mahi Mahi again?

Great girls weekend, and we'll do it again soon!

Go golf already, Jeff!!!!

katierae81

12-29-2009, 09:02 AM

CRdisMom

12-29-2009, 11:03 AM

ally did pull the beverly off wonderfully. Started reading the new TR alreadly. Did you see you had almost 10,000 views of your TR?!?!

karajeboo

12-29-2009, 01:23 PM

I thought I'd share a picture of my DS2 who we erm, uh, sorta got to try Beverly. Hey, the kid eats carpet fuzz...why wouldn't he like it? Might as well try, right? :rolleyes1
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h223/katierae81/Disney%20World%202009/Epcot/disney2009280.jpg

ADORABLE!!!!Was that pic taken AFTER he tasted it? :rotfl2: Ya know, the reason we all have kids is to mess with them anyway, right? :rolleyes1

ally did pull the beverly off wonderfully. Started reading the new TR alreadly. Did you see you had almost 10,000 views of your TR?!?!

Holy cow! I don't know if that is good, or just downright creepy? :rotfl2:

katierae81

12-29-2009, 02:54 PM

meeko_33785

12-30-2009, 09:53 AM

Nice update. I really enjoyed your trip report. Seems like you two had a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing some of that fun with all of us.

karajeboo

12-30-2009, 12:33 PM

Yes, that was AFTER he tasted it! My mom said he looks a bit scared. We were in Ice Station Cool (I don't care, it will always be this) every night of our vacation, and by the next night he forgave us and trusted that we would put the Costa Rican soda in his cup and not Beverly. :lmao:

Is the Costa Rican the watermelon one? I like that one!

Nice update. I really enjoyed your trip report. Seems like you two had a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing some of that fun with all of us.

My pleasure! I loved reliving it!

Mysteria

12-30-2009, 08:53 PM

Loved the report! Now off to the new one. :cool1:

englishrose47

12-30-2009, 09:18 PM

What is wrong with Beverley I thought it was delish !!!:lmao:Oh that's right I am NUTS:rotfl2::rotfl2:

dvc4life

12-30-2009, 10:19 PM

Just read through all of your report Kara, and what a bang up job you did.

Sorry about all the worries you have had this past Fall. I know I would be worried beyond compare about my girls, probably why I am getting so gray already. Ally is so adorable and innocent and I hope your community is pulling together for the safety of all of the kids.

You know, I like to have a good time while at Disney, but there is a time and a place for pure crudeness. That bachelorette party was totally wrong. Good for you for biting your tongue. I don't know if I could have not said something.

Thanks for sharing your many adventures at WDW. I am already reading your new TR and enjoying it. :goodvibes

katierae81

12-30-2009, 10:37 PM

[QUOTE=karajeboo;34804475]Is the Costa Rican the watermelon one? I like that one!

The watermelon one is from China and is my favorite too. The one from Costa Rica is some form of Fanta. Do you think I can have one of those machines installed in my house?

MaryAz

12-30-2009, 10:42 PM

Great report, loved it. Now off to check on the new one!

karajeboo

12-31-2009, 07:30 AM

Loved the report! Now off to the new one. :cool1:

Thanx Mysteria!!!

What is wrong with Beverley I thought it was delish !!!:lmao:Oh that's right I am NUTS:rotfl2::rotfl2:

You crack me up!!!!:rotfl2:

Just read through all of your report Kara, and what a bang up job you did.

Sorry about all the worries you have had this past Fall. I know I would be worried beyond compare about my girls, probably why I am getting so gray already. Ally is so adorable and innocent and I hope your community is pulling together for the safety of all of the kids.

You know, I like to have a good time while at Disney, but there is a time and a place for pure crudeness. That bachelorette party was totally wrong. Good for you for biting your tongue. I don't know if I could have not said something.

Thanks for sharing your many adventures at WDW. I am already reading your new TR and enjoying it. :goodvibes

The whole situation with Somer Thompson is still ongoing. Her killer has never been found which is so scary to know that whoever did this is still roaming the streets in our town!!!! There have been two incidents in our neighborhood of a man in a car approaching two high school girls at the bus stop in the morning. We just cannot let our guard down!!!

A couple weeks ago I took Ally and her friend to the movies (saw Princess and the Frog and actually did NOT care for it!! - I think the setting in the bayou was just too dark and depressing) and both girls would run off from me and it drove me nuts!!! I'm sure Ally's little friend thought I was crazy for trying to keep them so close.....

[QUOTE=karajeboo;34804475]Is the Costa Rican the watermelon one? I like that one!

The watermelon one is from China and is my favorite too. The one from Costa Rica is some form of Fanta. Do you think I can have one of those machines installed in my house?

Yes, I like the one from China. But there's one other one that I like too..... can't remember.

Great report, loved it. Now off to check on the new one!

Thanx, Mary!!!