From Kick'n It at Kidani to Play'n It at Pop adults only p62/63 last thoughts&request

[eandesmom]

aack! I missed a whole update! I can't beleive it! Between turkey day and our getaway I am SO behind on TR's! Not to mention life, holidays and works.

excuses excuses!

Isn't it funny? While a meal might be the most amazing ever, it really is the WHOLE experience that stays with you. What a lovely lovely night at AP an you summed it up beautifully. I love the fact that you just went with your guy on the Epcot crowds and hopped the monorail and then the ferry.

Spontaneity, and the ability to actually embrace it, is a wonderful thing.

Jeff is in love with WL. I like it but...it feels just like home lol! Which, while a good thing and very comfortable, doesn't feel very "away" to me.

Still, I'm sure we will stay there someday!

[MEK]

You know it's always that first mega splash that gets me....
Next time you might want to put on a rain bonnet, shower cap, or poncho.....:lmao:

I am totally going to find a cut shower cap for next trip. That's the first time I ever got that much of a dousing. It was pretty painless, because it was 90 degrees out, but I felt like my hair was dirty for the rest of the day.

aack! I missed a whole update! I can't beleive it! Between turkey day and our getaway I am SO behind on TR's! Not to mention life, holidays and works.

excuses excuses!



I feel the same way. Ever since the state soccer tournament I have gotten impossibly behind on everyone's TR (including my own). Heck, my last update was 11/25 and now 12/5! Yikes! :scared1: And I felt like I was forcing myself to do this last update. Now that its done, I have my momentum back. In fact, I tried to DIS last night, but the boards were down. So now I'm sneaking in a quick hit before I start getting ready for church.


Isn't it funny? While a meal might be the most amazing ever, it really is the WHOLE experience that stays with you. What a lovely lovely night at AP an you summed it up beautifully.


That's exactly right. It wasn't one individual thing, it was the sum of all the little touches in customer service, the food, the wine, the extras, the ambiance, that made it such a perfect evening. I love that they gave us the menu to take home. I take a peak at it from time to time.

I love the fact that you just went with your guy on the Epcot crowds and hopped the monorail and then the ferry.

Spontaneity, and the ability to actually embrace it, is a wonderful thing.



I'm glad we did that, too. It really was pleasant and not too time consuming. Pluse, as you will see, we got to ride back with C.

Jeff is in love with WL. I like it but...it feels just like home lol! Which, while a good thing and very comfortable, doesn't feel very "away" to me.

Still, I'm sure we will stay there someday!

I can understand that. I have always been a fan of the mountains and skiing, but I can't say I have ever stayed anywhere that resembles the WL. A few years ago (2005), before DVC, I was tempted to stay there. But I just couldn't justify the extra $1000 for the trip. So I forced myself to be happy with my choice to stay at CBR, which was an excellent trip, by the way. But I guess I just never got the WL out of my system.

[dawnbu40]

I love the pics from your ferry ride! Glad your nausea cleared up quickly and you could enjoy your morning!

[MEK]

I really should be going over my music one more time, but I can't seem to get the motivation. So, I think I'll post about the trip that almost was. Yes - that's right - I almost planned an extra trip this year. One in late January of 2010.

I'm not sure if you remember, but I have a coworker who owns many DVC points. She had a reservation for this week (infact, starting today) at SSR. She decided she did not have the $$$$$ for the trip and tried to rent the reservation. No go! That's hard for me to believe because it seems like a great week to go.

Anyway - she has to use these points by the end of January. 140 points to be exact. I got this great idea and decided to see if the soccer moms wanted to go in January. We could have gotten a 2BR at SSR for 150 points and my friend was going to charge us a shockingly low price of $7.5 a point. It would have been $375 per person for the three of us for 5 nights. Personally, I think that's a steal.

So when my friends seemed interested I shot them an email to break out the costs:

$375 resort
$280 ticket
$155 flight
$200 dining plan

Well - once I had the $ part all out in the open like that, they got cold feet. My one friend said she would rather designate that $ to her summer vacation. I explained that we could make the trip less expensive by (1) adding another person (which I really didn't want to do) (2) purchasing non park hoppers (I already have an AP so doesn't matter to me) (3) doing the quick service dining plan (4) praying for a better flight price, although $155 is probably the best we would get.(5) have a garage sale (kind of late in the year for that)

Anyway - my friends know that I had offered to take them next year on points, so I guess that crushed the incentive to come up with the $. I had to tell my coworker that we were going to pass.

Right now my coworker has a 1 BR booked at the WL from 1/17 to the 23rd. She is working with someone on the boards, so I hope she gets this settled. It's been alot of work for her. I'm sure she is trying to get a slightly higher dollar per point (because my price was rock bottom).

I am a little disappointed that my friends did not appreciate what a great deal this was. I won't be able to cough up the points for a 2BR next spring. My plan is for 2 studios at OKW. And if my friends want to go in the fall, we will have to plan for free dining and probably stay value, or no more than moderate, to undercut that price I listed above.

So that's my story - the trip that almost was!!!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

Mary Ellen, I would have gone with you in a heart beat. Well you know any one of your DIS friends would have jumped at that offer!

[eandesmom]

Oh I feel your pain! I did the same thing with 2 different groups trying to put together a girls only food and wine trip, either with my gourmet club or my mom, sisters and SIL.

Couple of takers but not enough to make it pencil and it was such a great deal!

I'd love to run away in Jan....though I can't afford it either lol.

Still, it is so painful to see the deal that got away...........

[MEK]

I love the pics from your ferry ride! Glad your nausea cleared up quickly and you could enjoy your morning!

Thanks Dawn. My nausea was gone very quickly. I only remembered it because it seemed so out of character. It came on really suddenly and then was gone....puff! Weird! :confused3

That reminds me - I have to go look at your pics from your last update. I think I read it at work. Better get Crackin'!

Mary Ellen, I would have gone with you in a heart beat. Well you know any one of your DIS friends would have jumped at that offer!

Well Wigd - now that I know, that I am pm'ing you the second another good deal comes along. I thought about soliticing Dis'ers, but I had to let her know it a short period of time and I wasn't able to Dis much while all this negotiating was going on. I was away with one of the soccer moms last week and that's when we decided just to forget it until neck year.

Is Shocker OK with you going without him? Denny told me I could go, but he said it was with one condition - after I went in Jan and then May (with him) he wanted me to take a year hiatus. Yeah right!!!!!! :laughing:

Oh I feel your pain! I did the same thing with 2 different groups trying to put together a girls only food and wine trip, either with my gourmet club or my mom, sisters and SIL.

Couple of takers but not enough to make it pencil and it was such a great deal!

I'd love to run away in Jan....though I can't afford it either lol.

Still, it is so painful to see the deal that got away...........

I would have felt a little selfish if we had gone, but I have been getting a bit of extra money lately from some recent singing jobs, so I probably could have justified it! :laughing: Plus my mom is giving me some cash for Christmas, so that would help. I would basically need to decide - new Cannon camera or trip to Disney world.

Anyway - its a non issue. I will check with my friend tomorrow, but I'm hoping she got a taker.

Mytake is you gotta find a couple people who really love it and really get it....and then you've got a trip!

[Lady Lallie]

Oh, MEK! I am so bummed. You would have been there when Jen and I are going! :headache:

[MEK]

Oh, MEK! I am so bummed. You would have been there when Jen and I are going! :headache:

Seriously???? I was JUST going over to your TR to see what your dates where, because now that I posted about my "trip that almost was", I have been bitten by the worst Disney bug and I really want to go in January. I am heading over to your TR now........

[praisehisname]

Last day blues...:sad1:


I am a little disappointed that my friends did not appreciate what a great deal this was.

:confused: They are clueless! I would have been all over that!


Well Wigd - now that I know, that I am pm'ing you the second another good deal comes along.

Pretty please, can you add me to the PM list, too??? I'm a really quiet, tidy roommate! :littleangel:

[MEK]

Last day blues...:sad1:




Somebody's last day blues are somebody else's first day highs! Uhhhhh? Did I just think of a name for my next TR! :rotfl:



:confused: They are clueless! I would have been all over that!


Pretty please, can you add me to the PM list, too??? I'm a really quiet, tidy roommate! :littleangel:[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

OK - done - you are officially on the pm list the next time I get offered a great deal!!!!!!!

:woohoo::woohoo:4 Days!!!!!! How excited are you????? I hope you do a TR!!!!!!!

I played a memorial service this afternoon at an Elks Lodge in Harve de Grace, Md. I remember when I was there last year, because all I could think of then was my upcoming December Disney trip! It really made me wish I was going again this December! I hope you have a fabulous trip!!!!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

I am so glad I caught up on your TR tonight. I loved your WL post and your thoughts as well as other posters. It sounds amazing. :) I am so excited to stay there. I cannot believe I will be there on Thursday! :yay:

Looking forward to hearing about your "much anticipated" DIS meet. Sure hope it lived up to the hype. :rolleyes1

[MEK]

I am so glad I caught up on your TR tonight. I loved your WL post and your thoughts as well as other posters. It sounds amazing. :) I am so excited to stay there. I cannot believe I will be there on Thursday! :yay:



So you ARE staying there! :woohoo: You better take a bunch of pictures. I can't wait to hear how it compares to your beloved Beach Club! :woohoo: Woot for Thursday!!!!!!
Looking forward to hearing about your "much anticipated" DIS meet. Sure hope it lived up to the hype. :rolleyes1

:rotfl: But, of course, it did!!!!!!!

[Lady Lallie]

Seriously???? I was JUST going over to your TR to see what your dates where, because now that I posted about my "trip that almost was", I have been bitten by the worst Disney bug and I really want to go in January. I am heading over to your TR now........

So what have you decided?! :rolleyes1

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, last days always make me a bit sad. :( I love the pictures of your early morning ferry ride to the MK -- so pretty and peaceful! I am glad the nausea passed quickly, and everything worked out with the cleaning lady.

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey ME,

I have to go back to catch up...but welcome to The Wilderness Lodge (Lincoln Log style...)


http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1285.jpg

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1297.jpg

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1299.jpg


I hope you didn't bring too much luggage...:rotfl2:

[podsnel]

I can't believe we're at the last day!! :sad1: I had a mix-up with my cleaning service on this last trip- I told her we were going away and that I would see her next time- then she showed up because I guess she thought I meant I would pay her next time. :confused3 I guess she thought she cleans all the time when I go on vacation- but that's because Sean usually stays there with Sheree & Henry. OOps. Guess next time I need to be more clear.

Can't wait to see your DISmeet!:goodvibes

[jenjolt]

Awww...I'm bummed too...like Leslie said that would have been right when we would have been there!!!! Look how close I was to my MEK meet....that's alright I will have to hold out until October LOL!!!

Okay I would have jumped on that deal so fast your head would have spun...really...do they know how much trips to Disney cost and then to get a great deal like that....OTTV!! Oh well I really hope it works out for your friend and she can get those points used.

[DWGal210]

Hey there! Just popping in to say hi!

How is the weather in your neck of the woods? We're supposed to get a foot of snow this week; some say by Wednesday, some say by Sunday...those weather people are so confusing! :goodvibes

Have a great week!

[manntra]

:sad1: on the "trip that almost was." It was a great offer and it is too bad that it couldn't be taken advantage of. :sad2:
I know what you mean about being bitten by the Disney bug....If I am not thinking of my upcoming trip then I am planning the one after that! :laughing:

Tracy

[MEK]

Hi All......

Sorry I haven't responded yet! I am busy AGAIN this week at work and I practiced music last night and I have to play music tonight. But if I don't get home too late.....oh, what the heck, I may not have time to respond until tomorrow and I REALLY want to see the lincoln log Wilderness Lodge! I can't see a blessed thing here at work! :sad2:

[mickeysmyboy]

Bleh! I got behind!! Busy, busy holiday stuff!!

Your last day, boo!! Sorry you got wet and got a stomachache!!! YUCK!

Other then that it sounds like a great morning so far!!

Boo for the tri pthat almost was! I think these ladies just don't "get it" as much as your fellow disers!!!!

[MEK]

Hey ME,

I have to go back to catch up...but welcome to The Wilderness Lodge (Lincoln Log style...)


http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1285.jpg

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1297.jpg

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1299.jpg




I hope you didn't bring too much luggage...:rotfl2:

I can't believe it took me two days to finally see this picture!!!!!!!! It is so Awesome. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! :worship: I want one so bad!!!!!!

Be back with replies later tonight!

[MEK]

So what have you decided?! :rolleyes1


Oh LL......I have been thinking about it all week. I could really do a cheap trip. I even found $50 a night rates at ASMU (AP rate) and if I got a $155 flight and did the quick service dining, well a 4 night trip would be less than what I plan to spend on my new camera.

But that's the problem.... I do want that cannon and I want it for my next trip. I don't think I can justify both. It's so tempting though. So tempting. :rolleyes:

Oh, last days always make me a bit sad. :( I love the pictures of your early morning ferry ride to the MK -- so pretty and peaceful! I am glad the nausea passed quickly, and everything worked out with the cleaning lady.

It's almost as hard to get to the last day of a TR as it is to get to the last day of the actual trip!!!!!! I'm might actually have to start a PTR this time just to keep me amused. Either that or I need to sneak in the Jan trip!

:rotfl2:

Hey ME,

I have to go back to catch up...but welcome to The Wilderness Lodge (Lincoln Log style...)


http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/patriciasilverman/Holidays%202009/100_1285.jpg


I hope you didn't bring too much luggage...:rotfl2:

Patricia -

Thank you again for this great picture. Wouldn't it be cool if Disney made a little village out of ALL its resorts and you could collect each one? I would LOVE that! :love:

I can't believe we're at the last day!! :sad1: I had a mix-up with my cleaning service on this last trip- I told her we were going away and that I would see her next time- then she showed up because I guess she thought I meant I would pay her next time. :confused3 I guess she thought she cleans all the time when I go on vacation- but that's because Sean usually stays there with Sheree & Henry. OOps. Guess next time I need to be more clear.

Can't wait to see your DISmeet!:goodvibes

Oh NO! She showed up wanting $ and your not even there! I waited to the last minute to cancel mine because I didn't want to cancel her too soon and then have something go wrong with the trip. Guess I waited a little too long to cancel! :rolleyes1

DISmeet coming up soon!

Awww...I'm bummed too...like Leslie said that would have been right when we would have been there!!!! Look how close I was to my MEK meet....that's alright I will have to hold out until October LOL!!!



Well, the reservation we were going to take was for the end of January, but her new reservation is for your dates. Honestly, if you and LL were going just a tad later, I might seriously consider a short solo trip. But the way it is now we would only overlap by one night.

Okay I would have jumped on that deal so fast your head would have spun...really...do they know how much trips to Disney cost and then to get a great deal like that....OTTV!! Oh well I really hope it works out for your friend and she can get those points used.

I don't think that most people add up the total cost of a trip before they make a decision, so that probably made them think it was expensive. But - they probably didn't realize that the price was super cheap for those accomodations!

You nailed it though - OTTV! :rotfl2:

Hey there! Just popping in to say hi!

How is the weather in your neck of the woods? We're supposed to get a foot of snow this week; some say by Wednesday, some say by Sunday...those weather people are so confusing! :goodvibes

Have a great week!

Thanks for dropping by DWG. Weather has been all over the place here - freezing cold one day, snow, then warm and rainy. It's crazy. I bet you are psyched that your trip is only a couple weeks away! :woohoo:

:sad1: on the "trip that almost was." It was a great offer and it is too bad that it couldn't be taken advantage of. :sad2:
I know what you mean about being bitten by the Disney bug....If I am not thinking of my upcoming trip then I am planning the one after that! :laughing:

Tracy

Hey Tracy -

It was an awesome offer. I wish my brother and his family could have used it, but they probably wouldn't realize what a great deal it was. Still - it would have been a dream trip for them because their family is so big. Plus I could have tagged along, too. :laughing: I certainly wouldn't mind sharing a room with my cute little nephews.

But I just didn't have the time to "enable" my brother into going. By the time they paid for all the flights, tickets, and food for 6 people it would have become an expensive trip. Then if the weather turned bad and they couldn't fly out - well that would just s--ck!

Bleh! I got behind!! Busy, busy holiday stuff!!

Your last day, boo!! Sorry you got wet and got a stomachache!!! YUCK!

Other then that it sounds like a great morning so far!!




It's so easy to get behind this time of year. It's impossible to take long stretches of DISing. There's just too much to do.

Yup - the morning started off great and it really was a fun last day!

Boo for the tri pthat almost was! I think these ladies just don't "get it" as much as your fellow disers!!!!

I know they don't. That's why I have to come here to commiserate! :rotfl2:

[bellebookworm9]

Hi!:wave2: I recently came across your Kidani report and I was very excited to see that you liked it so much, because that's where my mom and I will be staying in May! I haven't read this one through yet, but I saw in one of the first posts that you are planning on going in May as well. Is that trip still happening? If it is and we're down there at the same time (May 17-28), if you see us, say hi!

[MEK]

Hi!:wave2: I recently came across your Kidani report and I was very excited to see that you liked it so much, because that's where my mom and I will be staying in May! I haven't read this one through yet, but I saw in one of the first posts that you are planning on going in May as well. Is that trip still happening? If it is and we're down there at the same time (May 17-28), if you see us, say hi!

Hi bellebookworm9....

Thanks for stopping by!!!!!! You will love Kidani. It is absolutely beautiful. I would stay there again in a heartbeat. :thumbsup2

We are returning in May - the first week of May (2nd - 7th) staying at the Wilderness Lodge. I am really looking forward to staying there, too. I sort-of fell in love with the place during our September trip!

My mission is to stay at ALL the Disney resorts!!!!!!!!

[MEK]

When I left off last Denny and I were taking a break at Pecos bill. I had finished my negotiations with my cleaning person, who in my haste I had forgotten to cancel, and my nausea passed as quickly as it arrived. We regrouped and planned the rest of the morning. I told Denny that I really wanted to climb the tree house. I have seen some really great treehouse pics on the boards and I was hoping to channel my fledgling photography skills one last time and get a few decent pics. Since I started this TR, I had the pleasure of seeing Brooke's beautiful treehouse pics. Mine aren't quite that good, but - hey - I tried! So here goes......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1590.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1591.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1592.jpg

I don't know these people, but I think they posed for the picture......(Or Not!)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1593.jpg

There really are some beautiful views from the top of the treehouse.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1595.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1596-1.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1599.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1600.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1598.jpg

Once we hit the top of the treehouse, I was happy with my decision to visit the MK one last time. It was really beautiful up there. Even though it wasn't crowded, I kept feeling awkward everytime I stopped to take a picture. I kept feeling like I was holding up the flow of traffic, so I tried to find little areas of the path that kept me out of the way of other people. I was also getting dangerously low on my memory card. So I felt a little stressed with my balancing act - avoid the people, take the right pics! I had already deleted quite a few reject pictures to make room for today's pictures. I was hoping to avoid deleting any more. Here are a few more tree house pics......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1601.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1602.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1603.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1605.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1607.jpg

Bye Treehouse......thanks for sharing your lovely views......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1608.jpg

And all too soon we descended from the treehouse to ground level. I fought the urge to go back one more time. To me, photographing the treehouse was similar to my experience with the tree of life. I kept seeing new angles and new views. I easily could have spent 45 mins there, but I think that's an acitivity for park opening. I hate to be in the way of other people. It wrecks my creativity. LOL!

Back down to ground level we decided to just go with the flow. I honestly can't remember what we did next. We may have gone on Pirates or the Jungle Cruise. I seem to have a little lapse in my memory at this point. But I know I took this picture.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1609.jpg

One thing I do know is that we visited the Haunted Mansion on more time. I lost count of the number of times we rode HM. All I know is that I must have been getting some HM vibes from JenJolt, because I couldn't get enough of it. If my memory serves me correctly, Jen was due to arrive the next day. She must of been channeling her energy through me.

Since I was getting more familiar with the various scenes in HM, I vowed to try to get a picture, any picture, of something other than Madame Leota. Not that I don't like the dear madame. I love her, but I wanted that bride and I thought I finally knew the exact timing in order to take her picture.

So, I guess I really shouldn't leave you with a cliffhanger at this point, but I can't resist. So, did I manage to capture the bride's image?????

Well - in my next installment - the rest of the HM, the Hall of Presidents, Lunch, my Dis meet and good bye!

[Lady Lallie]

I'm loving the treehouse pictures. I haven't been up there since I was little so it's on my must do list in January. I have fond memories of watching the movie with my Dad growing up. I always wanted my own treehouse. :laughing:

[MEK]

I'm loving the treehouse pictures. I haven't been up there since I was little so it's on my must do list in January. I have fond memories of watching the movie with my Dad growing up. I always wanted my own treehouse. :laughing:

With the beautiful pictures you take, you absolutely MUST go for a visit and bring us back some new ones to share. :thumbsup2

[DWGal210]

I loved your Treehouse pics! You got some really great ones!

Awww, the last day. :sad1: Sad!

But a great TR, loved every part of it! :thumbsup2

[kschafer]

Is it May yet?

I so want to explore the treehouse and visit the ghost bride for myself. I haven't done either of these since I was a kid!

[podsnel]

My kids refuse the treehouse- we haven't been up there in a long, long time. They get up there, and say, "THIS IS IT????" :rotfl: Silly thrill seekers!

Loved your pics from up there, though!:thumbsup2

[eandesmom]

The Treehouse is a must do for me on the next trip, I haven't visited it since '04 and really missed it!

I know what you mean about stressing about blocking traffic while you take pictures, it is a balancing act.

Oohhh...the bride!

[Charleston Princess]

Great pictures from the top of the Treehouse, Mary Ellen. When I reach the top, I turn around and head right back down (I am so not a fan of heights -- my knees were buckling just looking at the pictures :laughing:).

I do hope you got your picture of the bride since you are leaving us in suspense about it. :rolleyes:;)

[jenjolt]

P and I spent some time in the treehouse and I have to tell you I adored the view from the top!!! I have to agree with you there are so many beautiful angles from up there!!!

Yes I was totally channeling my HM vibes and sending them to you...we all know how much I LOVE HM!!!!! I can't wait to see what picture you came up with in there! I have to admit I never have my camera out in there I just sit back and let myself enter into my nirvana zen mode LOL!!!!!

[manntra]

Great pictures from the Treehouse! I haven't been in there since I was a kid and that was a longgggg time ago! Good practice for your new camera! ;)
Oooooh can't wait to see your bride picture....I am totally spacing out right now but what is that she gets more of each time she offs her husbands? Does she have an additional pearl necklace each time? Oh my poor taxed brain. :laughing:

Tracy

[Planning fanatic mom]

Loved the tree house pics. I like the tree house. I dragged the family on in June, and they did not like it. DH kept saying it was like waiting in line for a ride and never getting the ride. :lmao: But then again he likes Stitch, so what does he know?:confused3

I, too, am a HM junky!! Can't get enough.

[Diamondintheruff]

I'm not a fan of heights either (or thrill rides) but I enjoyed your pictures. I have been up on the treehouse but I certainly didn't feel like taking any extra time to take any pics. Thanks for sharing.

[MEK]

I loved your Treehouse pics! You got some really great ones!



Thanks. I wish they were a little crisper, but I need the new camera for that! ;)

IAwww, the last day. :sad1: Sad!

But a great TR, loved every part of it! :thumbsup2

Thanks. I think I can still drag it out a bit longer! :laughing: (of course I am running out of pictures

Is it May yet?

I so want to explore the treehouse and visit the ghost bride for myself. I haven't done either of these since I was a kid!

No! But we only have about 4 1/2 months to go. That's not too bad!
Wait.....you mean your family didn't ride HM when you were there in 08????? If that is the case, I think HM needs to be your first stop!

My kids refuse the treehouse- we haven't been up there in a long, long time. They get up there, and say, "THIS IS IT????" :rotfl: Silly thrill seekers!

Loved your pics from up there, though!:thumbsup2

Same - my kids were be caught dead up in the treehouse and I never took LJ in June because it was so blasted hot! But, I loved it up there. I think its for little kids or adults! Glad you liked the pics!

The Treehouse is a must do for me on the next trip, I haven't visited it since '04 and really missed it!

I know what you mean about stressing about blocking traffic while you take pictures, it is a balancing act.

Oohhh...the bride!

It was definately a must do for me, too. I'm so glad we went up there. I also wanted to go over to Tom Sawyer's Island, but Denny said, "Not". :rotfl:

Great pictures from the top of the Treehouse, Mary Ellen. When I reach the top, I turn around and head right back down (I am so not a fan of heights -- my knees were buckling just looking at the pictures :laughing:).



Thanks Jackie. It's funny, when I was taking the pictures I didn't actually feel that close to all those things. So being up there did not feel all that high. I'm not crazy about heights either, but this was fine.


I do hope you got your picture of the bride since you are leaving us in suspense about it. :rolleyes:;)

:rolleyes1

P and I spent some time in the treehouse and I have to tell you I adored the view from the top!!! I have to agree with you there are so many beautiful angles from up there!!!



Oohhhh! I can't wait to see P's pictures from up there. I hope they get posted soon. (hint hint

Yes I was totally channeling my HM vibes and sending them to you...we all know how much I LOVE HM!!!!! I can't wait to see what picture you came up with in there! I have to admit I never have my camera out in there I just sit back and let myself enter into my nirvana zen mode LOL!!!!!

You must have been because I was feel the HM urge everytime I set foot in the MK. I'm surprised you don't ever take your camera out. I have got to ride HM with you once, just to see you go into your trance!

Great pictures from the Treehouse! I haven't been in there since I was a kid and that was a longgggg time ago! Good practice for your new camera! ;)


I know - right! ;) I can't wait to get that camera. My coworker bought a Canon Rebel for her Africa trip and her pictures are amazing. She basically used it in a point and shot mode, a complete novice, and they were great!

Oooooh can't wait to see your bride picture....I am totally spacing out right now but what is that she gets more of each time she offs her husbands? Does she have an additional pearl necklace each time? Oh my poor taxed brain. :laughing:



OMG.....We'll have to ask Jen to answer that. Plus, I should look it up in my Hidden Magic book.

Loved the tree house pics. I like the tree house. I dragged the family on in June, and they did not like it. DH kept saying it was like waiting in line for a ride and never getting the ride. :lmao: But then again he likes Stitch, so what does he know?:confused3



:rotfl2: LOL! I think WDW has so many high tech things to see that it's easy to be underwhelmed by the simpler things. I think that's what everyone has in common on the boards - we lover everything.....the simplicity of some attractions and the high tech hoopla of others.

I, too, am a HM junky!! Can't get enough.

Hear that Jen????? another junkie! Maybe you know the answer to the bride question that manntra posed.

I'm not a fan of heights either (or thrill rides) but I enjoyed your pictures. I have been up on the treehouse but I certainly didn't feel like taking any extra time to take any pics. Thanks for sharing.

I've been up in the treehouse before with no desire to take pictures, but this time I was really hoping to capture a unique view or two. It was fun! And....you're welcome!

[MEK]

I "think" I made an executive decision about the May trip. Notice I said "think", because nothing is set in stone.

As you know, I have been toying with the idea of doing a quick Jan trip. I haven't been able to get it out of my head. Of course, it would be a quick 4 day solo trip - a Monday to Friday because that's when I can get $155 RT airfare from BWI. There are AP value resort rates for $49.20. I kid you not. That's $220 and change, including taxes, for 4 nights. Very, very tempting. However, as cheap as it is ,I would still need spending money. Plus, I don't think I could rationalize a trip and my new camera. Plus, if I arrived on January 18th, I would spend the rest of the week by myself. I would love to meet LL and Jen on their last night, but then I think I might be a tad lonely.

I've been on a solo trip before. It was relaxing, it was lovely, but it was lonely. And I don't like doing TS by myself. I just don't. I'm sure I could get used to it, but its not my favorite way to eat. The one advantage I could see to going solo is it would allow me the time to audition for AI. I really do want to sing on that stage, because I'm sure the sound system is amazing. Plus, if I do anything that even closely resembles a signing competition, I have to prepare and focus. Its easier to do that solo. So that, and the chance to meet LL and Jen, would be the reasons I would go.

So I went to bed thinking about it. Usually when something is right I know it right away. I can feel it. I don't have to mull over it. This just doesn't feel completely right.

And when I woke up this morning, I had a sudden bright idea! :idea: I thought - what if I use some of the money I was going to spend in January and go a few days early in May. I could leave on a Friday night. Denny could drive me to PHL after work. Then I would have Saturday and half a day Sunday to myself before they arrive. It would be a good weekend to go solo cause Ellen (podsnel) will be there with the Dis moms, Katie & Co will be arriving on Saturday, and Tracy (manntra) will also be arriving on Saturday. I would wait for AP rates to come out before I decide where to stay. And since my mission is to stay at ALL the Disney resorts, I could possibly cross ASSports or Movies off my list. I would love to stay at BC for 2 nights, but :scared1: not sure if Denny would go for that solo expenditure. Of course, if I could get a couple more music jobs between now and then. :rolleyes1(I made $375 since August, but don't have anything lined up until next fall).

Anyway - that's what I think I may do instead of fretting over whether or not to go in January. So, what da ya think????

[mickeysmyboy]

I think your Treehouse piced are beautiful!! Love the views with the depth created by trees :thumbsup2

I think going a few days early in May is a fabulous idea! Love it! It will be a great way to relax and have a little fun before a week of fun!!

[Lady Lallie]

Selfishly I want to tell you May is a HORRIBLE idea but I won't. ;) It sounds like a good idea to add a little bit of solo time in May before everyone arrives. I think you really need to audition from AI. Preferably in October so I can watch you.

[brookelizabeth]

I think your May idea is a great one! Especially with the gut feeling. I'm big on that too - generally I know when it's a YES, and if I'm hemming and hawing, it's probably a no.

I'm sorry to hear about your January trip that almost was though! $7.50 a point! I instantly starting crunching numbers in my head wondering how we could make it work. :rotfl:

Love your Tree House pics!! They were beautiful! I completely understand about needing time to explore, and no one behind you to really get into your photography groove, I'm the same way.

[Charleston Princess]

I think going a few days early in May sounds great, but then I always think extra time at Disney is a good idea. :rotfl:

[Jasper Dale]

i have truly enjoyed your trip report. my wife and i are headed back to WDW in a few months, and you have given me some new ideas on what to do in the parks. plus, i always love a good dining review.

thank you so much for taking the time to write and prepare your report. i i know it's not something you just "throw together", but takes hours and hours of work. thanks for letting me benefit from your hard work!

[eandesmom]

I can totally relate to the solo/lonely aspect and not loving dining alone. I think it reminds me of too many business trips!

I love your idea, it's the perfect compromise of a little solo time, which we all need, and then your bigger trip!

[kschafer]

Well I think your idea is FABULOUS!!!!!!

We'll be doing Fantasmic on Saturday night and although AI was not on my must-do list but if you audition on Sunday, I'll be there rooting you on!

(and nope, I didn't get to HM last summer, my boys refused!)

[wsushocker]

And since my mission is to stay at ALL the Disney resorts, I could possibly cross ASSports or Movies off my list.

I've been kicked out of chat for using that acronym!

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey ME,

Loved your photos up in the treehouse...:thumbsup2 I have to get back up there next time...it's funny...I was jonesing to go into HM multiple times last trip also...in fact I could go for a trip through right about now...:lmao:hmm...I think that Jen has had an HM influence on all of us...;)

Hope you get your days in May...
popcorn::

[MEK]

I think your Treehouse piced are beautiful!! Love the views with the depth created by trees :thumbsup2



Thanks. Glad you like! It was pretty cool up there!



I think going a few days early in May is a fabulous idea! Love it! It will be a great way to relax and have a little fun before a week of fun!!

I think I will go a few days early in May. That feels more "right" to me than the Jan trip!


Sorry....will be back later with more replies!!!!!

[DWGal210]

I think your plan for May sounds like a great idea - go for it!! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

Selfishly I want to tell you May is a HORRIBLE idea but I won't. ;) It sounds like a good idea to add a little bit of solo time in May before everyone arrives. I think you really need to audition from AI. Preferably in October so I can watch you.

:rotfl2: I'm laughing because your May trip last year was filled with lots of rain and lots of blisters. I hope I don't endure the same. I'm going to be heavily into blister prevention in May. I looked at all your anti-blister creams, ointments, and cushions and I cracked up.

I'm still really up in the air about AI. But if I do a solo trip in October it is definately a possibility!!!!!

I think your May idea is a great one! Especially with the gut feeling. I'm big on that too - generally I know when it's a YES, and if I'm hemming and hawing, it's probably a no.



So well put Brooke. That's exactly how I feel. That's why I'm leaning towards an early arrival in May. It just feels right!

I.

I'm sorry to hear about your January trip that almost was though! $7.50 a point! I instantly starting crunching numbers in my head wondering how we could make it work. :rotfl:



I KNOW......$7.50 a point. That is such a steal. It's like $125 more than what I would spend on a room a ASMu with my AP rate. Granted, I would be sharing the 2BR, but STILL ....Come'on....its unbeatable!


Love your Tree House pics!! They were beautiful! I completely understand about needing time to explore, and no one behind you to really get into your photography groove, I'm the same way.

Thanks, especially coming from yours, since yours were fantastic!!!!!!!!

I was just thinking how if I don't go to Disney is Jan then I can get my new camera. And if I get my new camera I really want to go to Longwood Gardens and practice taking some pics.

I think going a few days early in May sounds great, but then I always think extra time at Disney is a good idea. :rotfl:

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2 :rotfl: Can't wait to hear about your summer plans. ;)

i have truly enjoyed your trip report. my wife and i are headed back to WDW in a few months, and you have given me some new ideas on what to do in the parks. plus, i always love a good dining review.

thank you so much for taking the time to write and prepare your report. i i know it's not something you just "throw together", but takes hours and hours of work. thanks for letting me benefit from your hard work!

Thanks Jasper Dale and pixiedust:pixiedust:pixiedust: Welcome to my TR!.....and welcome to the boards. You are going to find a ton a good TR's to keep you reading happily along until its time for your trip. I do think that adult trips are the BEST and I hope you and you wife have a fantastic time!!!!!!!!

I can totally relate to the solo/lonely aspect and not loving dining alone. I think it reminds me of too many business trips!



I'm glad I am not alone in my "dining alone" distaste. I just don't enjoy it. When I am alone I am basically just eating for hunger. When I go out with other people its the whole other social aspect of dining that I enjoy so much.

I love your idea, it's the perfect compromise of a little solo time, which we all need, and then your bigger trip!

Yeah - I think this idea is a winner, especially since there will be so many Dis'ers there that weekend. Plus it will give me some much needed practice with my new camera. Then I won't feel like I am ignoring my friends as much while I'm taking pictures.

Well I think your idea is FABULOUS!!!!!!

We'll be doing Fantasmic on Saturday night and although AI was not on my must-do list but if you audition on Sunday, I'll be there rooting you on!

(and nope, I didn't get to HM last summer, my boys refused!)

I saw that! I forget what the rest of your Sat plans are, but I will definately pm you once I decide to do this. That way we can possibly arrange a meet. I doubt I would do AI on Sunday, but I would definately like to meet you guys over the weekend!!!!!

I can't believe you boys refused HM. Horrors!!!!!! They are such cute boys. I bet they will love it next time!

I've been kicked out of chat for using that acronym!

:rotfl2: OMG I am cracking up out loud at work. Leave it to you to see that Shocker. I hadn't even noticed. I wonder whose mind is in the gutter more. :rolleyes1 Thanks for the good laugh. I needed it. Blah Monday! I feel so much better now!

Hey ME,

Loved your photos up in the treehouse...:thumbsup2 I have to get back up there next time:

Thanks. I really enjoyed it up there. Next visit I need to get over to Tom's Island and take some pics there. Haven't been there since my first trip.

I was jonesing to go into HM multiple times last trip also...in fact I could go for a trip through right about now...:lmao:hmm...I think that Jen has had an HM influence on all of us...;)

Hope you get your days in May...
popcorn::

I think Jen's love of HM is so contagious. When she writes about it, her passion just comes through it a way that is infectious. She really has helped me to appreciate the HM in a new way!

I think your plan for May sounds like a great idea - go for it!! :thumbsup2


Thanks - I am pretty darn sure I am going for it. In fact, maybe I leave midday Friday instead of Friday night!!!!! :laughing:

[podsnel]

I vote YES for coming early in May!!! That's more time in the tequila ditch with us!!! :dance3: :dance3:

[wsushocker]

:rotfl2: OMG I am cracking up out loud at work. Leave it to you to see that Shocker. I hadn't even noticed. I wonder whose mind is in the gutter more. :rolleyes1 Thanks for the good laugh. I needed it. Blah Monday! I feel so much better now!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/We-are-all-in-the-gutter.jpg

[manntra]

I think leaving a few days early is a great idea. ::yes:: I am still up in the air about where to stay that Saturday night but we have lots of time to decide! I was thinking some of the airport hotels but then with an AP rate maybe there is something good on property. It has been easy for me because my friend is going along with whatever I say (smart, isn't she? :laughing:)
I am so happy that you are considering the AI...you definitely have my vote!

Tracy :santa:

[MEK]

I vote YES for coming early in May!!! That's more time in the tequila ditch with us!!! :dance3: :dance3:

Oh YeaH!!!!!!!!! Between the tequila ditch and the sake bar I would say that arriving early is looking better and better! :thumbsup2:cool1::thumbsup2

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/We-are-all-in-the-gutter.jpg

:rotfl: Shocker.....you've got a come back for everything! Good One! Of course, if I hit the tequila ditch and the sake bar all in one night, I might just end up in the gutter!!!!!

I think leaving a few days early is a great idea. ::yes:: I am still up in the air about where to stay that Saturday night but we have lots of time to decide! I was thinking some of the airport hotels but then with an AP rate maybe there is something good on property. It has been easy for me because my friend is going along with whatever I say (smart, isn't she? :laughing:)


I am hoping for a good AP rate for May,too. It seems like a decent AP rate would make it easier than staying near the airport, so that's what I'm hoping for. Isn't it great when your friends just trust you to plan the whole trip? It makes everything so much easier. :laughing: Control freaks....aren't we?

I am so happy that you are considering the AI...you definitely have my vote!



Awwh....thanks Tracy.....that's so nice!

[eandesmom]

I'm still really up in the air about AI. But if I do a solo trip in October it is definately a possibility!!!!!

I'm glad I am not alone in my "dining alone" distaste. I just don't enjoy it. When I am alone I am basically just eating for hunger. When I go out with other people its the whole other social aspect of dining that I enjoy so much.



Oh you have to do AI!

I like eating alone.

If it's in my hotel room, with a nice glass of wine and a good book or a bad movie on pay per view!

Then it's just about perfect.

Otherwise I've been known to take books into restaurants when dining alone. Or eat in the bar (feels less "alone" for some reason?)

[mickeysmyboy]

I've been kicked out of chat for using that acronym!

If I were the tag fairy that would so be your tag Shocker!!!!!!! Too funny!:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

[praisehisname]

I've never had the desire to explore the Treehouse, but after seeing your pictures I might change my mind. Great job!

[MEK]

Oh you have to do AI!



One of these visits I will. But I don't think I will tell anyone until its over! :rolleyes1



I like eating alone.

If it's in my hotel room, with a nice glass of wine and a good book or a bad movie on pay per view!

Then it's just about perfect.

Otherwise I've been known to take books into restaurants when dining alone. Or eat in the bar (feels less "alone" for some reason?)

I totally agree with this. I think I would prefer eating alone in my room to be out in a restaurant. In fact, when I went solo a couple years ago I do recall having a couple meals alone in my room. It's funny, but I don't remember much about the food I consumed on that trip because it was all counter service. The only meal I really remember was when I took the KTTK tour. I remember that because I got to be around people!!!!! :woohoo:

If I were the tag fairy that would so be your tag Shocker!!!!!!! Too funny!:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

I am certainly going to miss Shocker's sidebar comments while he, Anita, and Baylor are enjoying themselves in Disneyworld. I know they set up computer central in their villa, so maybe he'll stop by for a late night comment! :laughing:

I've never had the desire to explore the Treehouse, but after seeing your pictures I might change my mind. Great job!

Thanks Denise!!!!!! I can't wait to see your pics from your trip. In fact, I think I will head over there this morning to see what I missed while I was reading at work!

[MEK]

.........that I didn't plan a January trip, because Brian's soccer team is looking at tournaments in Florida for President's weekend. Of course, it's like a bajillion dollars to fly there for the weekend. But me thinks that if they decide to do a tournament (which would be at Disney, Sanford, or Tampa), I will definately head down a few days early for a little solo visit. It will make my flight down soooooooo much cheaper and there are still AP room rates for that week.

Then I was thinking I could pick Brian up from the airport on Thursday or Friday and we could head to the tournament destination. It's going to be expensive, but I will just deal. I'm curious to see how many parents want to go down there. No one really wanted to go the week after Christmas. So we'll see!

Since I am all ready to be super snowed in this weekend, I promise an update today!

[MEK]

So it is snowing big time right now! We NEVER get REAL snow before Christmas. It's pretty amazing. Looks like we will be snow bound this weekend. It's common to even cancel church when it snows a lot here, so I potentially will get a music break tomorrow. I can't say I'm too disappointed about that, since I have mega music coming up on Christmas eve.

So........when I last left off I was about to try for a picture of the ever elusive ghost bride in the Haunted Mansion. Did I finally capture her digital image???? Well, let's see. Excuse me for a moment while I go hop over to my photobucket account.

OK. That's better. Here's the first picture I took in HM......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1610.jpg

And......TAAAAAAAA DAAAAAAAAAAA..........the bride:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1611.jpg

I was pretty psyched when I looked in my view finder and realized that I finally captured her! :woohoo: I love her eery silhouette. What a great imagineering feat!

When we exited HM it was still about 15 minutes until our LTT lunch ADR. I visited that cute kitchen shop right outside the mansion, but I didn't see anything I wanted. Other than Denny's Tshirt, we really didn't buy anything this trip. I'm not sure why. I guess I just wasn't in the shopping mood. My souveniers were to be my memories and my 1500 new pictures.

We checked into LTT a few minutes early. The place was quite full and it looked like they were turning away walk-ins. We were seated relatively quickly, but the didn't call "our family" by name. I'm not sure why. Since we are from the first state (how colonial is that?), it would have been nice to be called the K--- family from Middletown, DE. Oh well.

I took a few pictures while we were waiting to order.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1612.jpg

LL.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1613.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1614.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1615.jpg

As you can see, our dining room was pretty empty when we were first seated. But no worries, it quickly filled to capacity.

I was looking forward to eating here, because I heard that lunch was really great. I remember LL saying how great the Tavern fried cheese was, but we opted to share the Crab and Spinach Dip for two.

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1616.jpg

It was pretty good. Probably not as good as the fried cheese, but I'm glad we tried it. As we were enjoying our crab dip I got a text message. Whenever I would get a text message during this trip, my first thought would be, "Oh crap. It must be one of the kids. What's wrong?????". And it seemed like most of those messages occurred during meal time. I even apologized to our waitstaff on one or two occasions for doing so much texting during meals. Once I explained to the castmember that we had "home alone" teenagers, I they gave us that understanding nod. LOL!

So, without haste, I quickly grabbed my phone and saw the following message....

On the monorail from Epcot to MK. Will be there soon!


And the message indicated it was from none other thanChristine from DIS. Hah! That was how I put C's name in my cell phone. I was too excited. Could it be that I was just about to have my first DIS meet! Coooooooooooool!

Truth be told, I think Denny was a little excited, too. Or at least he was a bit curious. He never really says too much about the countless hours I spend on the boards. Ever once in a while he will comment "Have you been on those DISH boards again?" To which I reply "DIS dear, NOT DISH!".

So C and I texted back and forth a bit and made arrangements to meet after her ADR at the Plaza.

So back to our meal. Since we had been on the deluxe dining plan we hadn't eaten at any CS places, so I was actually looking forward to order a sandwich. I ordered the Tri corner Roast beef sandwich and Denny opted for the the Roast turkey.

Tri-Corner Sandwich - roast beef and swiss cheese with Liberty Slaw, horseradish cream sauce and arugula served on herbed focaccia with fresh fruit or tavern fries $11.49

Pilgrims' Feast - traditional roast turkey with herb bread dressing, mashed potatoes and a garden vegetable $14.99

In my excitement over hearing from C, I almost forgot to take a picture of my sandwich, which was excellent. Honestly, it was the best sandwich I have ever eaten in the world. I craved it for several weeks after our return home. Please excuse the half eaten sandwich in this picture.

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1618.jpg

The worst part was, I couldn't finish it. I wanted to. But I was just too darn full. And if we hadn't been leaving that day, I would have taken it with me. But with the heat and no imminent refrigeration, I had no choice but to leave it there. Boo hoo!

And Denny's meal.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1617.jpg

I know that Denny cleaned his plate and then ate dessert. Ouch! Someone's tummy was definately stretching. I can't remember what he had for dessert. I asked for my brownie (sans the ice cream) to go.

After lunch we decided to visit the Hall of Presidents while C was having her lunch. Since the show didn't start for another 15 minutes I decided to have one final photo opt. Here are the lovely buildings in Liberty Square:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1619.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1620.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1621.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1622.jpg

I love the cute little colonial buildings. I have always been a big fan of colonial / historic buildings and architecture. I think its a shame that there is a smoking area here. Personally, I think smoking areas should be the least desirable places in the park. Because I think it should be a reminder of how ugly the inside of your body gets when you smoke. Soap box moment! Sorry! (Plus I think I made this comment once before....having a deja vu moment right now)

Here's a few more pictures I took while waiting for the HOP show!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1626.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1627.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1625.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1623.jpg

Continued in next post.......

[MEK]

Finally it was time to go see the Hall of Presidents. This can be one of those "sleeper" shows for me. Meaning, its cool, its dark, its educational, and, of course, that sometimes equals...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz But I didn't fall asleep. I was interested in seeing the addition of Barack Obama to the exhibit. And I did manage a few more pics......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1628.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1629.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1630.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1633.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1634.jpg

So, don't ask me what I learned new, because I don't remember. I know that I always enjoy this exhibit, but my retention is bad. I know I don't enjoy it as much as the American Adventure. It's the AA music that gets me everytime! So patriotic.

After we exited HOP, we headed towards the main street bakery. I wanted to use some of our remaining snack credits. When I hit the line I sent C a text that we were at the MS bakery and to meet us there. She was right across the street. Denny and I were able to find a small table to wait. As we were waiting, he said, "Are you going to recognize her?" Funny, I was just thinking the same thing. I replied, "Ahhh I think so, I mean...I HOPE so". :laughing:

At that moment C walked in. I knew it was her instantly. And I have to tell you peeps that C is more beautiful in real life than in her pictures. She just had the best glow about her. She was radiating. Seriously - I know that must sound crazy, but C personified what I call the "first day Disney glow". I think there really is a look that some people get when they get to Disney, and especially when they enter MK. It is a look which exemplifies all the joy and happiness they feel when they finally, after months of waiting, get to their happy place. Silly? Nah.....I think you guys know its a real phenomenon.

C recognized me, too (thank goodness....I was smiling, ya know ;)) and we gave each other a big hug. It was so nice to meet a fellow Dis'er, especially after so many months/years of talking to so many great folks over the internet. And as so many people have said, I instantly felt comfortable with C. It was like we had know each other for in real life, not just DIS life.

Unfortunately, our visit was short lived because Denny and I had to leave for the airport. Our time at Disney was quickly coming to a close. But what a great closing it was. I asked C if she wanted our Splash mtn FP's, but she said she was leaving the park, too. So we rode back to Epcot on the ferry and the monorail together. And you know what, I forgot all about those FP's, so I never found a new owner for them. Oh well. I felt kind-of bad about that, but what can you do.

Denny took a couple pictures of C and I on our return trip.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1635.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1636.jpg

C reminded me to smile, and we both had a good laugh about that! :laughing:

When we finally arrived at Epcot, I glanced at the time. We had about two hours to our flight departure. I remember C saying, "You guys sure like to cut it close". :rotfl2: So we said our final goodbyes and I wished C to have the most awesome trip ever. I was secretly a little jealous of the 10 days she had ahead of her, but more than that - I unselfishly hoped she had a fantastic time!

Then we were off - the mad rush to fill up the car with gas and return it to MCO. We got through security in plenty of time and found our flight was going to be delayed by about 1/2 hour.

We were flying home on southwest and I have to share a return flight observation with you. Normally SW is great. You board, you find a seat, you sit down. But I don't know what was wrong with our fellow travelers on this particular flight. No one could seem to sit down and everyone was trying to put their carry-ons in the overhead compartments. One girl in front of us actually had the nerve to ask another passenger to take her bag out of the over head compartment so she could put a suitcase in there. The passenger replied, "if you want it out then you can put it under your seat". OK, then.

Finally the stewardess came and collected all the extra bags and had them checked. :worship: thank you! Com'on people - bags fly free!

So, folks that concludes my adventures in Disney World. Of course, we still had a little adventure on the way home. We had found this great little short cut from Rt 50 to BWI on the way there. We wanted the GPS to take us back that same route, but it wouldn't. So we tried to pick a town that we knew was on that return route and trick the gps. Let's just say that plan completely backfired. Denny put some town in that was totally in the wrong direction and we drove out of our way for awhile until I looked up and realized we had seriously screwed up. Needless to say, I was less than thrilled with this turn of events and Denny and I shared our first "words" since the start of the vacation.

And that, my friends, was when we realized the magic had really ended!

Of course, I will be back with my summary and of my top 5 favorite events of this trip, my new adventure list, and my likes/dislikes. Then I want to share some pictures from our photopass calendar.

Thanks so much for reading along!!!!!!!!

[dawnbu40]

Great update! We ate at LTT our last day too! I love the pics from Liberty Square. Those buildings are so pretty. :thumbsup2 for the awesome pic of the Bride! Sorry to see your report coming to a close but looking forward to your wrap up :goodvibes

[MEK]

Great update! We ate at LTT our last day too! I love the pics from Liberty Square. Those buildings are so pretty. :thumbsup2 for the awesome pic of the Bride! Sorry to see your report coming to a close but looking forward to your wrap up :goodvibes

Thanks Dawn! Looks like we are both wrapping up our TR's around the same time! :thumbsup2 I hope we end up there around the same time next fall. (hint hint!)

[manntra]

WOW! What an awesome picture of the bride! I love it! She looks so creepy!
Good pics of the HOP too...I really liked the changes they made..it really needed an update.
Ahhhhh the "First day of Disney glow." That should be bottled or a spa treatment! :laughing:
Interesting events on SWA. I have never flown with them but I can't really imagine the free for all seating...I know it works for them but as you encountered...some people :confused3 I get so annoyed with people carrying on bags that should have been checked...or at least they will give you a tag and put them under :confused:
Are you enjoying the snow? Stupid question I know. We aren't getting any :sad2: Could have used some as I am going snowboarding tomorrow and I think it's mostly man made snow. The storm is just missing me...I am in the middle of NYS but close to the PA border so it is all below and to the east of me. :rolleyes:

Tracy

Looking forward to your favorites of the trip...please not another picture of the fish. :lmao: I did a photpass calendar too! :goodvibes

[MEK]

WOW! What an awesome picture of the bride! I love it! She looks so creepy!
Good pics of the HOP too...I really liked the changes they made..it really needed an update.



Thanks. I am pleased with the way the bride turned out. Just wait till I get that new camera! ;) Of course, I will have to ride it 5 times again to get the timing down! :laughing:

Definately good updates to HOP!

Ahhhhh the "First day of Disney glow." That should be bottled or a spa treatment! :laughing:


It should be bottled! :thumbsup2 Maybe C can work on that, cause she really had it that day!
Interesting events on SWA. I have never flown with them but I can't really imagine the free for all seating...I know it works for them but as you encountered...some people :confused3 I get so annoyed with people carrying on bags that should have been checked...or at least they will give you a tag and put them under :confused:


Usually SWA is great and people aren't morons. I kept wanting to say "Its SW people, not air tran. Lose the bags.". Those flight attendants could barely shut everything.

Are you enjoying the snow? Stupid question I know. We aren't getting any :sad2: Could have used some as I am going snowboarding tomorrow and I think it's mostly man made snow. The storm is just missing me...I am in the middle of NYS but close to the PA border so it is all below and to the east of me. :rolleyes:



I am not a midatlantic snow hater. I actually like snow. This is one of those times that I would actually WANT to ski in the poconos. But by the time I have a chance to go, the snow will be ruined. I hope you get some snow soon. This is EXTREMELY unusal for us to get this much snow and before Christmas. Basically unheard of.



Looking forward to your favorites of the trip...please not another picture of the fish. :lmao: I did a photpass calendar too! :goodvibes

Not to worry - no more fish pictures! :rotfl: I really like the calendar. I had just the right number of pics to do it and I like all the little factoids.

[dawnbu40]

Thanks Dawn! Looks like we are both wrapping up our TR's around the same time! :thumbsup2 I hope we end up there around the same time next fall. (hint hint!)

Well we're already booked so now you just have to convince that husband of yours to go again in the fall too :)

[wigdoutdismom]

Hi Mary Ellen!
Super pictures of the bride! Very impressive....
Thanks for the yummy pictures of LTT. We are eating there Christmas day!
That was going to be our last meal of the trip....
Then we extended it by three nights last weekend.:laughing:
Have a great weekend!
Anita

[kschafer]

I'm so sad it's over :guilty: but thrilled you may be going in Jan to tide me over with pictures.

Hooray for a Christine meet!!! I sure hope we talked her into a May bounceback :rolleyes: since returning last week, she hasn't been on the Dis, I can't wait to hear if she will be joining us!!

[MEK]

Well we're already booked so now you just have to convince that husband of yours to go again in the fall too :)

Awesome- what are your dates for next fall? I know that quite a few of us Dis'ers will be there.

Hi Mary Ellen!
Super pictures of the bride! Very impressive....


Thanks Anita! I was pretty happy with her image!

Thanks for the yummy pictures of LTT. We are eating there Christmas day!
That was going to be our last meal of the trip....
Then we extended it by three nights last weekend.:laughing:
Have a great weekend!
Anita

You lucky dog.....three more nights!!!!!! I must get more DVC points!!!!! HAHA. That is so awesome. I can't wait to read all about your Christmas trip. I want to know everything!

I'm so sad it's over :guilty: but thrilled you may be going in Jan to tide me over with pictures.

Hooray for a Christine meet!!! I sure hope we talked her into a May bounceback :rolleyes: since returning last week, she hasn't been on the Dis, I can't wait to hear if she will be joining us!!

That would be great if Christine decides to go in May. Its so great that so many people are going the first week of May. I need it NOW!

[wigdoutdismom]

[quote]You lucky dog.....three more nights!!!!!! I must get more DVC points!!!!! HAHA. That is so awesome. I can't wait to read all about your Christmas trip. I want to know everything!
I'm so glad that I read your reply.
I need to pack my journal!

[dawnbu40]

Awesome- what are your dates for next fall? I know that quite a few of us Dis'ers will be there.

We'll be there the first week of September, the 1st through the 8th. It's right before Caitlin's fall semester starts.

[MEK]

[QUOTE=MEK;34708061]




I'm so glad that I read your reply.
I need to pack my journal!



You better cause I want details! Plus I want to see another picture of you in your shower cap. Please don't disappoint! :rotfl:

We'll be there the first week of September, the 1st through the 8th. It's right before Caitlin's fall semester starts.

Ahhhh! That's right - I do remember you saying that. I think that's a great time to go - right after Labor Day. Great that Caitlin will be albe to join you. I know we can't go that early because its too close to the start of school and that is usually a busy, disorganized time. Oh well. Can't blame me for trying.

[MEK]

Since I consider myself to be a fairly seasoned visitor, I always enjoy making a list of my new trip experiences. It supports my theory that each trip is a new and exciting experience at Disney. No 2 trips can ever be the same!

So what did I do new on this trip????? Well, let's see......

Day 1: Dinner at Narcoosee's
Exploring the Grand Floridian (including that pesky self parking lot :laughing:)
This was such a wonderful way to kick off the trip. The GF, in all its splendor, spoke to me and said .......WOW, this is going to be a GREAT trip! Interesting, the GF has never been on my list of "must try" resorts. I'm not sure wny. I guess its because I am "thrifty" (aka cheap) by nature, and I just can't see parting with that kind of $$$ unless I were to get a discount beyond belief. However, this visit to the GF made me realize that it might be nice to have a short stay there. It would nice for a visit when, say, I had no park tickets. Seems to be that the resort itself would keep me more than happy. Strictly adults only, though! ;)

Day 2: Storm Struck
Grey Goose Slushie
Walk -On Soarin
Photographing the secret picture in SSE
Flying Fish
Exploring the Boardwalk Resort

Walking right on Soarin really was quite a feat for me. I am now officially "spoiled" for life. I know a Soarin walk-on is not likely to happen again for a long time, so I totally appreciate that experience. :worship:

Storm Struck was an enjoyable experience, but I probably won't be rushing to do that again real soon. Mostly because there is always so much else I want to do.

GGS - Yes - I know - it is hard to believe that was my first! It certainly lived up to all the hype and it, most certainly, will not be my last. I enjoyed it - right to the last drop!

Oh the secret picture in SSE - Thank you Jen for clueing me into that little surprise. I am so excited that the picture turned out, even though I broke the rules to get it.

Flying Fish - The best scallops I have ever tasted and, overall, a really enjoyable meal. Even though I wasn't crazy about the decor, I would not hesistate to eat there again.

Exploring the Boardwalk - I loved the Boardwalk. Just like GF, this was never tops on my list for resort choices, but that has changed. I think its right up there with the coveted beach club. For my next big DVC trip I really would like to try for BC or BWV. I will be happy with either one. I loved all the cool things in the lobby. This place really did take me back to my days as a kid at the Jersey shore. It made me think of my grandmother and my childhood visits to the Steele Peer.

Day 3: Exploring the trail on Discovery Island and exploring the Tree of Life upclose and personal
Front row of EE
Tusker House Lunch
MNSSHP
Visiting Minnie's House

Day 3 provided me with an opportunity to see the AK through the eye of a photographer. I had so much fun taking pictures at the AK. It was like looking at a whole new park. We also had a blast riding the front row of EE. And I am so excited that my DH was able to take those front row shots. I will treasure them forever.

TH was a very enjoyable meal. The food was excellent and the theming was great. I would have preferred breakfast, but I have that scheduled for my next trip and lunch really was super yummy!

And MNSSHP.......What can I say that hasn't already been said? This party was a total blast. I loved the parade, the music, the costumes, the lighting, the photopass opportunities. It really is a great party. I did enjoy it more than MVMCP. Again, I think the reason for my preference were the decreased crowds and the theming.

And Minnie's House - Yep - another first. Minnie - I don't know why it took me so long to come visit you, but I promise to be back soon!

Day 4: The Magic of Disney Animation
TSM without a FP
Artist Point
Exploring the Wilderness Lodge

I finally drew my character. I have wanted to do that for several trips and Pluto is now mine. I really want to do this again in May and I hope that my GF will want to do this, too. I know Denny wont! :sad2:

I was pretty psyched that we got to do the stand-by line for TSM. I never thought I would wait in that line due to the popularity of the ride. The queue was really cute and I loved the talking Mr Potato Head.

AP - As you know, this was my favorite dinner of the trip. It had all the key ingredients for an amazing night - great service, great wine, great food, special anniversary surprises, and a beautiful view. I feel in love with the WL and know I will be staying at one of my dream resorts in a few short months! I feel so lucky and it makes me so thankful that we joined DVC. Point challenged or not - I am happy to have a small piece of the DVC pie because of all the new experiences it has, and will, open up for me! The WL is just a great architectual feat and I look forward to exploring every nook and cranny.

Day 5: Taking Pictures of the Treehouse
The New Hall of Presidents
Lunch at LTT
The Ferry Ride
My first Dis meet

So, I have been in the tree house before, my I will call this a first because its the first time I focused and took pictures. In the past I have just breezed through. I am glad I have new pictures that remind me of all the great details in the treehouse.

The New HOP - good job! I will be back!

Lunch at LTT - I have had dinner there, but lunch was excellent. I may have to do a repeat in May because it really was yummy. That sandwich - YUM!

The Ferry Ride - OK - technically not a first. Our first ferry ride was in 2002. This was the first time our family set foot on Disney property together and it was our first magical trip to the MK. How could I have possibly waited 10 more trips to return on that ferry? So - to me - its was a "new" first. It was so beautiful traveling past the Poly, the GF, the Contemporary, and catching that first glimpse of the MK and the Castle. What a great feeling!

My first DIS meet - Again - such a great, positive experience and I look forward to many more upcoming Dis meets in May. Let's see - Katie is confirmed with a wonderful meal planned at Ohana's :thumbsup2. I am also hoping to meet Tracy (manntra) so we can try out our new cameras together :laughing:, and I can't forget Ellen and the Dismoms - the Cave and the Sake bar - hear I come!!!!!!!!

So -up next - My top 5 highlights of the trip (I bet you can guess them all), some final thoughts, and some photopass pics.

[Charleston Princess]

Yeay! You got a picture of the bride! :banana:

Sounds like you had a lovely last morning at the Magic Kingdom, and you got to meet Christine which is tons of fun! Great pictures of the two of you!

I am so sad your trip is over! Are you going to do a PTR for your May trip?

[praisehisname]

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1611.jpg

Awesome job!


http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1616.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1618.jpg

Mmmm...both of these look really good!


http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/Sept2009-Disney1636.jpg

Great picture! That's so cool you finally got to meet!


And that, my friends, was when we realized the magic had really ended!

I hate that feeling. You know it's eventually going to arrive, but you dread it so much!

You had a lot of "firsts" on this trip! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

Yeay! You got a picture of the bride! :banana:



She is a pretty cool little apparition, isn't she?


Sounds like you had a lovely last morning at the Magic Kingdom, and you got to meet Christine which is tons of fun! Great pictures of the two of you!



It was a great way to end the trip. I am really glad we got to meet. :thumbsup2Here's to more furture Dis meet!


I am so sad your trip is over! Are you going to do a PTR for your May trip?

I got pretty attached to this TR for some reason. It is a little hard to let go. I'm not sure about the May PTR. For some reason, I'm not really into writing PTRs. I love to read them, but I don't care for writing them. That's why I need a trip sooner than May. I need to do another post TR!!!!! :rotfl:

Awesome job!






thanks. I love that bride. She is definately freaky looking!





Great picture! That's so cool you finally got to meet!






It was alot of fun! A magical way to end the last day!



I hate that feeling. You know it's eventually going to arrive, but you dread it so much!

You had a lot of "firsts" on this trip! :thumbsup2

It is a bummer when you leave, but its also a good feeling because you put a little box around the trip and it always holds a special place in your heart and mind!

I did have a lot of "firsts", even though they weren't traditional firsts - like first time on this ride or that ride. Instead, the were more like first experiences.

I'm glad your TR is starting as mine is finishing. It's great to have a whole new beginning, middle, and end to read about!

[MEK]

All I can say is thank goodness for another snow day because I am getting to spend a lot of time on my TR. Its so nice to not have to go to church today. Everything has come to a grinding halt, but I expect civilization will start emerging again soon. Our development is plowed, but our driveway - less so. The guy left the whole top of the driveway unplowed. I hope he doesn't think we are paying for THAT! So, even with the AWD on the Subaru, I am still technically snowed in!

So in my new found free time I took some pictures of my photopass calendar. We had just enough pictures to fill one and it will give us something special to look at for all of 2010. So here goes........

So here is what a typical page looks like......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar017.jpg

Did you know that Snow White was born on December 21st in 1937? I know now, thanks to my calendar!

Here's Jan, in case you were curious

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar020.jpg

And here are some of our pictures. They layouts can use one or two pictures and you can provide your own captions.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar045.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar046.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar047.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar037.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar038.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar041.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar039.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar043.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar040.jpg

I love this particular background (above)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar044.jpg

And this picture of Denny coaxing Stitch is too funny!


Another really cute background (above)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Photopass%20calendar/Snowstorm09calendar022.jpg

And this picture was taken right after exiting RnR, which may explain why I look a bit disheveled! Sorry - forgot the macro.

Anyway - you get the idea. I think its a nice option to buying the whole disk. But I think we may in May because our friends will be along!

[ILuvCrush]

Awesome TR MEK!!

I think you did an EXCELLENT job on the HM pics:worship:
When I wentwith Jen in Sept... after she left I rode HMmyself and the ride STOPPED inthe attic!! lesson learned... I didn't have my camera out:sad1: now I always keep it out and ready...even if I don't plan to take any pics!

The fact that you got that awesome pic while moving...WOW!!! I got all warm and fuzzy when you described C...she is an amazing lady! I just luv her!

I'mgoing Feb 3-8 and (hopefully) the last week of Sept...If you're looking for options for a solo trip:rolleyes1 I am really wanting another solo trip...which very well may coincide with the 'great gnomie F&W meet' in october.

Paula

[podsnel]

I'm so glad you're snowed in and wrote so much!! :goodvibes I just made the same photopass calendar- using pics from our November trip (and 1 or 2 from our September visit). I didn't have very good photopass pics, though. So I used alot of my own pics in it- so often my photos came out better than theirs- that's why I didn't buy the CD- but you're right, the calendar is a great alternative. :goodvibes And your sandwich looked delicious from LTT- makes me want to go!

Loved your report!! Can't wait to meet you this May!! :thumbsup2

[dawnbu40]

I love the calendar! It will serve as a great reminder of your wonderful vacation! I have been getting tons of coupon codes from sites that offer photo products so I too made a Disney pic calendar. Not only was it cute it was free :cool1:

[mickeysmyboy]

Boooo! I'm sad to see it end!!!

Wonderful updates! Great job with the HM's pics!!! I love the picture of the bride!!!!!

That lunch at LTT looks and sounds soooooo good! We had dinner there Halloween of 06 and it was an ok dinner. But, lunch sounds delish!!!


Glad you had such a great trip!!!!!

[eandesmom]

YAY for snow days!

We haven't had one yet, in fact is is positively balmy out right now which just feels odd after the severe cold snap we had. The kids are jonesing for snow and now that school is out, so am I!

Great updates! Let me see what I can remember :)

:thumbsup2 for Disney area tournaments, President's week or not. I'd be all over that! You can get decent flights by going early, that's what we did for our trip last year and our flights were a great price!

Your last day sounds great and that sandwich looks yummy. So glad you finally got to have a DISmeet.

The bride!!!!!!! :banana:

Bummer that your trip had to end with "words" and a misdirected GPS but it really seems like you had a magical and fun adult only anniversary trip which is a gift in and of itself and one that is really apparent in your calendar! I love the calendar, it makes me want to make one for us right now. I think, if Santa doesn't bring me a new one (he usually does) then I will!

I love that you did so many new things, that was a great recap, and can't wait to see the top 5!

[PracPerfPatricia]

I was hoping you had your day off of Church...:cool1: not because I am anti church but because it kind of makes you feel like a little kid with a snow day from school and you didn't have to go out and schlep this morning...:goodvibes

Wasn't the snow amazing? (I think I'm feeling extra perky about it because of Christmas...) All of our weather forecasts kept saying the DE was going to be walloped...we got a good solid 18" ourselves...

I love the LTT...it really makes a nice escape when the park is crazy...(it is funny I miss when they used to call out our family name and state...especially when you are coming from one of the first 13...(I miss the character meal too because even though the food was ok...I always thought the colonial costumes were so cute on the characters and the interaction was really good...

Your mini Dismeeting...so fun...:thumbsup2

Your calendar is such a lovely reminder of your trip...just the two of you...love it....:goodvibes

[Lady Lallie]

I love the picture of the bride! Great shot, MEK!

Your LTT lunch looked fabulous!! I've been wanting to try that spinach dip too.

I think your wrap is good too. I never seem to do a good wrap up, I lose steam. :rotfl2:

[Charleston Princess]

I love the Photopass calendar!!! What a fun reminder of your trip all through the year! I made one on Shutterfly with a bunch of our Disney pictures, but it isn't nearly as cute because our backgrounds aren't Disney themed.

[praisehisname]

The calendar is a great idea and turned out beautiful!

[manntra]

I was waiting to see which calendar you chose....that is the same one that I made!!! :lmao: I love all of the backgrounds on that one. Yours turned out great....look at all of those smiles! :)
I make a calendar every year for my parents with pictures from the trips that I have taken from that year. This year I also loaded a few pictures onto the Disney Photopass site and was able to use my own pictures along with the PP pics.
I am so looking forward to the May trip too. :goodvibes It's only 132 days from today :laughing: but really 131 since I will be there on Saturday. Actually once it gets to 90 it will fly by. I think this will really be a fun trip for me and different too...usually I have nieces or nephews and we are buzzing around from ride to ride..I think this will be much less fast paced. I can't wait to meet everyone too....You and I are pretty much following each other around on Sunday (the Wave) and AK night :laughing: We'll have to figure everything out as it gets closer.

Tracy

[brookelizabeth]

That sandwich from LTT looks and sounds delicious! LTT is another one that is high on my "must try" list. Now if I can just squeeze in another Disney trip, perhaps I can make a dent in that list! :goodvibes

What a great way to end your trip - the picture of the bride on HM, your meal and a great DIS meet. :thumbsup2

I always remember the first not so great thing that happens after our trips and always think to myself "The magic has ended." :laughing:

.........that I didn't plan a January trip, because Brian's soccer team is looking at tournaments in Florida for President's weekend. Of course, it's like a bajillion dollars to fly there for the weekend. But me thinks that if they decide to do a tournament (which would be at Disney, Sanford, or Tampa), I will definately head down a few days early for a little solo visit. It will make my flight down soooooooo much cheaper and there are still AP room rates for that week.

Disney, Disney, Disney! I hope it works out for you! When will you find out?


Love your PP calendar!!! What a great option versus buying the CD! And if you don't mind me asking, how much is the calendar? You and Denny really got some great shots!

[MEK]

Sorry I couldn't respond to all your great comments yesterday. Work was nuts. It's not supposed to be Nuts right before christmas. One of our patients was readmitted and was really, really sick. I left really late, had to drop off music, and then practice music with Nicholas. Long day. I HOPE I get some free time to respond today. I am starting to feel the last minute pre- christmas rush!

But to answer Brooke's question - the photopass calendar was about $30 with shipping and handling. Not bad for a year's worth of entertainment!

Be back as soon as I get some free time today.

[MEK]

Awesome TR MEK!!

I think you did an EXCELLENT job on the HM pics:worship:
When I wentwith Jen in Sept... after she left I rode HMmyself and the ride STOPPED inthe attic!! lesson learned... I didn't have my camera out:sad1: now I always keep it out and ready...even if I don't plan to take any pics!
take any pics!

The fact that you got that awesome pic while moving...WOW!!!
Paula

Thanks Paula! That stinks - not being able to get your camera out in time. I've had that happen to me before. Just as you get it out - the ride starts moving again.

I think I just got totally lucky with that pic. I almost had the timing right on a preceeding ride, so I sped it up by a second or two and wham - it happened!
I got all warm and fuzzy when you described C...she is an amazing lady! I just luv her!



She really was a pleasure to meet. You and Jen are lucky you actually got to spend quality time together with C.

So....you are going the last week of September??? That is when I would love to go. I love the end of September. Hmmmmmmm.......definately a possiblity.

[manntra]

In case I don't make it on later or tomorrow.....

Merry Christmas!!!

I'm off to Best Buy after work for some gift cards....I am going to LOOK at the cameras ;)

Tracy :santa:

p.s. you need to get yourself a facebook account!!

[DisFan10]

Sorry I couldn't respond to all your great comments yesterday. Work was nuts. It's not supposed to be Nuts right before christmas. One of our patients was readmitted and was really, really sick. I left really late, had to drop off music, and then practice music with Nicholas. Long day. I HOPE I get some free time to respond today. I am starting to feel the last minute pre- christmas rush!

But to answer Brooke's question - the photopass calendar was about $30 with shipping and handling. Not bad for a year's worth of entertainment!

Be back as soon as I get some free time today.

I just recently came across this thread and have enjoyed reading your trip report. I also enjoyed reading your very entertaining previous trip reports, especially the one with your nephew. Have a Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

[MEK]

I'm so glad you're snowed in and wrote so much!! :goodvibes I just made the same photopass calendar- using pics from our November trip (and 1 or 2 from our September visit). I didn't have very good photopass pics, though. So I used alot of my own pics in it- so often my photos came out better than theirs- that's why I didn't buy the CD- but you're right, the calendar is a great alternative. :goodvibes And your sandwich looked delicious from LTT- makes me want to go!

Loved your report!! Can't wait to meet you this May!! :thumbsup2

Hi Ellen -

Sorry it took me so long to respond. I hope you will post pictures of your November pp calendar. I bet its great and I would love to see all the kids. I think its great that you can also include your own pictures. That is so cool.

I'm glad you liked the TR and I am definately looking forward to meeting up in May!.

[MEK]

I love the calendar! It will serve as a great reminder of your wonderful vacation! I have been getting tons of coupon codes from sites that offer photo products so I too made a Disney pic calendar. Not only was it cute it was free :cool1:

Thanks Dawn - I am glad you like the calendar! It is a great reminder of our vacation.

You made a free calendar - that is awesome. I bet its great, especially since you and Dale take such great pics together.

I need to get back to my shutterfly projects. I started a book with ALL my Florida vacations. I need to get back to work!

Boooo! I'm sad to see it end!!!

Wonderful updates! Great job with the HM's pics!!! I love the picture of the bride!!!!!

That lunch at LTT looks and sounds soooooo good! We had dinner there Halloween of 06 and it was an ok dinner. But, lunch sounds delish!!!


Glad you had such a great trip!!!!!

I feel sad to see my TR end, too. I get attached to my TRs and I dont want to stop working on it. I feel like I might go into Withdraw! :rotfl:

Isn't the bride great. I love her!

LTT lunch was really good. I didn't make an ADR for next trip, but I am certainly thinking about it!

YAY for snow days!

We haven't had one yet, in fact is is positively balmy out right now which just feels odd after the severe cold snap we had. The kids are jonesing for snow and now that school is out, so am I!



Hard to believe that we got snow before you. My snow weekend was nice. It certainly was a change of pace, but it got me really far behind for Christmas. Fortunately, we have a low key Christmas at home, so I can finally sit and relax.

:thumbsup2 for Disney area tournaments, President's week or not. I'd be all over that! You can get decent flights by going early, that's what we did for our trip last year and our flights were a great price!



I do hope we go away President's weekend. If so, there are decent flight prices for earlier in the week. Brian will be the one who needs the expensive flights. Still, its worth it for a quick break from the cold. ;)


Your last day sounds great and that sandwich looks yummy. So glad you finally got to have a DISmeet.

The bride!!!!!!! :banana:



The bride and a Dismeet all in one day. It was a winner!!!! :thumbsup2



Bummer that your trip had to end with "words" and a misdirected GPS but it really seems like you had a magical and fun adult only anniversary trip which is a gift in and of itself and one that is really apparent in your calendar! I love the calendar, it makes me want to make one for us right now. I think, if Santa doesn't bring me a new one (he usually does) then I will!



It was just ironic that we hadn't been home for more than 45 minutes and we had the first "words" all trip. It was like a record screeching to halt and I remember thinking - "The magic is over. We left it on the plane". But seriously, it wasn't that bad. We were both just tired and ready to be home.

:banana: to a 2010 calendar full of cool vacation pics!


I love that you did so many new things, that was a great recap, and can't wait to see the top 5!

Isn't it great how you can always find so many great new things to do, even if its just a variation of an old theme. That's why I love the world! :love:


I was hoping you had your day off of Church...:cool1: not because I am anti church but because it kind of makes you feel like a little kid with a snow day from school and you didn't have to go out and schlep this morning...:goodvibes



Well put Patricia. Once it started to snow I decided I wasn't going to bother to rehearse, so its a darn good thing church was canceled. I wouldn't have played too well! :rolleyes1


Wasn't the snow amazing? (I think I'm feeling extra perky about it because of Christmas...) All of our weather forecasts kept saying the DE was going to be walloped...we got a good solid 18" ourselves...



I honestly don't know what our snow total was, but its the most snow we have had in about 5 or 6 years. Our roads were still really bad Monday morning. They were so frozen and snowy. Fortunately I don't live far from the highway, but getting there was a little :scared1:.

I love the LTT...it really makes a nice escape when the park is crazy...(it is funny I miss when they used to call out our family name and state...especially when you are coming from one of the first 13...(I miss the character meal too because even though the food was ok...I always thought the colonial costumes were so cute on the characters and the interaction was really good...



They were calling some names and states, but they missed ours. I don't know if they were afraid they wouldn't pronouce it right or they were just being lazy. Oh well. You're right about the characters - those colonial costumes are some of the best. We just got Fios TV and I was watching my old Disney pics on the TV. The ones from LTT in 2006 were so great. My kids got some great shots with the characters.

Your mini Dismeeting...so fun...:thumbsup2

Your calendar is such a lovely reminder of your trip...just the two of you...love it....:goodvibes

The mini Dis meet was great.....and I love our calendar. I think I am going to take it to work to brighten up my office!


Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!

Be back later with more replies!

[Charleston Princess]

Merry Christmas, Mary Ellen!

[MEK]

I love the picture of the bride! Great shot, MEK!



Thanks LL! I wish Jen would stop by to see her! I need the real expert opinion! :laughing:

Your LTT lunch looked fabulous!! I've been wanting to try that spinach dip too.



I craved that roast beef sandwich for a LONG time!And the spinach dip was pretty decadent. A lot of food for lunch!


I think your wrap is good too. I never seem to do a good wrap up, I lose steam. :rotfl2:

I'm losing steam too, but at the same time I don't want this TR to end.

I love the Photopass calendar!!! What a fun reminder of your trip all through the year! I made one on Shutterfly with a bunch of our Disney pictures, but it isn't nearly as cute because our backgrounds aren't Disney themed.

Yeah - but I still love the shutterfly products/ They are really good, but it would be cool if they could license some Disney themed pages. That would be awesome. I would be making something everyday!

The calendar is a great idea and turned out beautiful!

Thanks! I really like it! Just a week until 2010 and then its official!

I was waiting to see which calendar you chose....that is the same one that I made!!! :lmao: I love all of the backgrounds on that one. Yours turned out great....look at all of those smiles! :)
I make a calendar every year for my parents with pictures from the trips that I have taken from that year. This year I also loaded a few pictures onto the Disney Photopass site and was able to use my own pictures along with the PP pics.


:rotfl: We did smile alot for the pp photographer! When I looked at my old pictures from 05 and 06 I did not smile AT ALL!!!!! Smiling really does make a difference.

That's so great that you make a calendar for your parents. I bet they love that. I really wanted to do a book for my mom on shutterfly, but the time just got away. I do like how the photopass calendar is quick and easy. I spend way too much time on shutterfly editing every detail.


I am so looking forward to the May trip too. :goodvibes It's only 132 days from today :laughing: but really 131 since I will be there on Saturday. Actually once it gets to 90 it will fly by. I think this will really be a fun trip for me and different too...usually I have nieces or nephews and we are buzzing around from ride to ride..I think this will be much less fast paced. I can't wait to meet everyone too....You and I are pretty much following each other around on Sunday (the Wave) and AK night :laughing: We'll have to figure everything out as it gets closer.

Tracy

I can't wait for May. I am already totally sick of cold weather! LOL! I can't wait to see the pretty flowers in Epcot. I can't wait to play tour guide. And I really can't wait to set up my Dis meets. It's going to be a very cool trip!

That sandwich from LTT looks and sounds delicious! LTT is another one that is high on my "must try" list. Now if I can just squeeze in another Disney trip, perhaps I can make a dent in that list! :goodvibes



:rotfl: That's what I was thinking the other night - I really need an extra Disney trip so I can try some new or revisit some old restaurants! :rotfl: LTT lunch is definately a keeper. Whenever I do the dxdp that will be my lunch spot at MK!


What a great way to end your trip - the picture of the bride on HM, your meal and a great DIS meet. :thumbsup2



It was a perfect ending to a great trip! Probably my favorite trip to date!

I always remember the first not so great thing that happens after our trips and always think to myself "The magic has ended." :laughing:




Hah! I will probably do that with each future trip. The first time reality sets in - Ugggghhhhhh - "the magic has ended" will pop right into my head!



Disney, Disney, Disney! I hope it works out for you! When will you find out?




Unfortunately, not soon enough. I hope we get some update emails soon and don't have to wait until the first of the year!


Love your PP calendar!!! What a great option versus buying the CD! And if you don't mind me asking, how much is the calendar? You and Denny really got some great shots!

I'm very pleased with the calendar. It really wouldn't have been worth it for us to get the CD. We just didn't get enough pictures. Next time, though!

[MEK]

In case I don't make it on later or tomorrow.....

Merry Christmas!!!

I'm off to Best Buy after work for some gift cards....I am going to LOOK at the cameras ;)



Thanks Tracy - same to you! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and I hope you got the camera. Denny was looking at Costco the other day and said he could only find the Nikons. I really want that camera more than ever, so I think I am going to revisit Costco this week! ;)


p.s. you need to get yourself a facebook account!!

Maybe I will now that my TR is completed. One of my very good friends at work had a FB account for a few days. She said she hated it because it was such a popularity contest. I guess her description turned me off, but I think its time to revisit the idea. And now that we have Fios TV, I can do it right on the TV. That's pretty crazy!

I just recently came across this thread and have enjoyed reading your trip report. I also enjoyed reading your very entertaining previous trip reports, especially the one with your nephew. Have a Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Hi Dis Fan & Welcome!!!!!:cheer2::cheer2::cheer2:

Welcome to the Dis and my TR. Thanks for reading both my TRs. I really did enjoy writing about the TR with my nephew. I wish I could take him again in May, but I don't think his parents would release him from school for a week. He is a great kid and I really need to plan a trip for him and his younger brother!

Anyhoo - thanks again for reading along!!!!!!

Merry Christmas, Mary Ellen!

Thanks Jackie - I hope that you and your Family had an awesome day!!!!!!!

[MEK]

I just want to thank everyone for reading along and I hope that everyone's holidays are filed with happiness and joy. I thought it would be fun to post a couple miscellaneous pictures.


Let's see....in case you missed seeing my boys and LJ during this trip, here are a few of the clan taken on thanksgiving:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009067.jpg

LJ still has the best smile! :)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009066.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009078.jpg

It was not easy to get that baby to smile for the camera!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009080.jpg

Who got a visit from this young man yesterday??????

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009095.jpg

And a few more pics that I took in Ellicott City, Md over Thanksgiving:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009096.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009090.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009093.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009118.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009100.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009119.jpg

Did Santa bring anybody any Disney trinkets.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009086.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009085.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009084.jpg

You have NO idea how hard it was to resist those figurines!!!!!!!

And, of course, what picture update would be complete without a few pictures from the recent snow storm......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar004.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar003.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar005.jpg

hmmmmmmm.......Set's see which cat is brave enough to venture outside....Max or Jewel?

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar009.jpg

I think Jewel wins......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar012.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar013.jpg

This was Max's preference.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar015.jpg

And Kismet....well, she wouldn't even go near that front door:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar048.jpg

More pics next post.......

[MEK]

Oh My.....glad my new car is in the garage:
http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar049.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar050.jpg


This was as far as I could wander in the back yard because the snow was over my knees:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar051.jpg

My neighbor's house:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar062.jpg

I couldn't get a good shot of my house because the walkway wasn't shoveled:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar055.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar058.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar057.jpg

Across the street:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar063.jpg

The deck (taken through the window):

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar064.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar068.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar066.jpg

Late Summer:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Thanksgivingandsoccer2009001.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar067.jpg

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year's to all.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%205/snowstorm%202009/Snowstorm09calendar001.jpg

[MEK]

I almost forgot ..... I fully intend to be back with my final summary and my top 5 highlights of the trip. So stick around! popcorn::

[Charleston Princess]

Ah, your boys are looking so old!!! Great pictures of them all!

Holy Huge Snow Storm!!! :eek: You received an unbelievable amount of snow! We got rain. Always rain. :laughing:

[manntra]

Thanks for the picture update! :thumbsup2 LJ is so adorable! :goodvibes
That sure was a lot of snow...it has been raining last night and tonight so now everything is brown and blech!
I had a cat named Jewels! She passed away this past year :sad1:...she was 21!!!!
When I went to Best Buy the other day I picked up one of the Cannons. They are a bit heavy so I am going to have to start working out before May so that I can carry it around! :laughing: The prices seem to be consistently the same so I don't know if I should wait a bit more. :confused3

Tracy

[dawnbu40]

Great pics! Thanks for sharing! I love the all American Santa! Happy Holidays!

[MEK]

Ah, your boys are looking so old!!! Great pictures of them all!



They do look old - scary old! They continue to change every 6 months! Just wait - itsa comin' for you, too! :laughing:


Holy Huge Snow Storm!!! :eek: You received an unbelievable amount of snow! We got rain. Always rain. :laughing:

That really was a record breaker for us, especially in December. We are usually receiving the rain. Even when they get snow in Philly, which is not that far north, we get rain!

Thanks for the picture update! :thumbsup2 LJ is so adorable! :goodvibes


I'm glad you liked it! That is why I need a new camera so bad. I take pictures of everything anymore! LOL!

Isn't LJ a cutie. I would love to take him and Michael back to the world!

That sure was a lot of snow...it has been raining last night and tonight so now everything is brown and blech!


It was huge and it lasted for days since it was so cold. I never did look for my cross country ski boots and now I regret not going out skiing a bit! :sad2: Just a busy, bad time of year to take the time.

It's blech and brown here now, too!

I had a cat named Jewels! She passed away this past year :sad1:...she was 21!!!!


Really? Great name! :thumbsup2 Wow - She lived a long time. I've never had a cat live that long. It must have been hard to say good-bye after all those years.

I call my cat Jewels a lot. I also call her Jeweler. Kismet gets called Keemie and Chemo...... and Max, my favorite, gets called Maxie pants, Maxer, and Maxine. Yeah - I'm weird, I know! :rotfl:

When I went to Best Buy the other day I picked up one of the Cannons. They are a bit heavy so I am going to have to start working out before May so that I can carry it around! :laughing: The prices seem to be consistently the same so I don't know if I should wait a bit more. :confused3



:woohoo: woot for your new camera!!!!!! I think if you are finding consistent prices and you have something you want to photograph before Disney, go for it! I can't wait to get mine. I really want to go to Longwood Garden's on NY eve and I want to take pics. I MUST get that camera before NY's eve!

My coworker used on in Africa and you can see her pictures get consistently better (starting above average and improving), so I say that practice can't hurt. In the meantime I'll have to use those dumbells to increase my arm strength! :rotfl:


Great pics! Thanks for sharing! I love the all American Santa! Happy Holidays!

Thanks Dawn - isn't he cool???? I hope that you, Dale, and Caitlin have a wonderful holiday season!

[eandesmom]

Oh Mary Ellen, the boys look great! That LJ is the cutest thing,his smile is infectious even in pictures!

I cannot believe all that snow, WOW!

I :love: the pictures of your kitties! So adorable. Thanks for sharing :goodvibes

[podsnel]

Merry Christmas, ME! :santa: The boys look great- and all the snow! I think I've been to Ellicott City with a friend from Maryland- are there a ton of antique shops there?:santa: Very pretty-

[praisehisname]

Merry Christmas! Beautiful snow pictures!

[MEK]

Oh Mary Ellen, the boys look great! That LJ is the cutest thing,his smile is infectious even in pictures!



My boys look like typical teenagers. I think they have adopted my "no smile" pose! :rotfl2: But LJ.....that kid can't take a bad picture. He is the most photogenic child. Now HE knows how to smile! :)

I cannot believe all that snow, WOW!



It's all gone now and I just found my cross country boots! :sad2: I hope we get another good snowfall before the winter is over. All my midatlantic friends are cursing me for just saying that! :rolleyes1


I :love: the pictures of your kitties! So adorable. Thanks for sharing :goodvibes

I do love my little mutt kitties. They are all rescues - Max and Kismet from the SPCA and Jewel wondered into my backyard about 5 or 6 years ago, right before Christmas. There was no way I could take her to the SPCA and the humane society didn't have an appointment for quite awhile. I think she's much happier here! :thumbsup2

Merry Christmas, ME! :santa: The boys look great- and all the snow! I think I've been to Ellicott City with a friend from Maryland- are there a ton of antique shops there?:santa: Very pretty-

Same to you Ellen. I hope you and your family had a great Christmas! :santa: Yes - there are a bajillion antique shops there. I honestly didn't think people were that into antiques any more. I have a lot of antiques because my mom was heavily into it for awhile. It was interesting to see what some of the depression glass sells for, because I have a ton of it and I just can't part with it. But if I ever do decide to sell it, its good to know there is still a market for it somewhere.

We also found this cute sweater shop with beautiful $10 sweaters. Really high quality and I could kick myself for not buying more. Ugghhhh! I think I was just getting tired of lugging my camera around and trying not to whack it into anything breakable. LOL!


Merry Christmas! Beautiful snow pictures!

Same to you Denise! I hope you and your family had a great day! I was just over at your TR and realized I had missed not one, but two, updates. :rolleyes1 Sorry - I'm back on track now!

[MEK]

So I promised, as part of my final thoughts, that I would do a "top 5 list" compiled of my trip highlights. I spent some serious time contemplating this list. I wanted to keep it focused on things that really impacted the trip or moments where I really experienced some full force magic. So here it is......drum roll please......my top 5.

Starting, of course, with #5:

Celebrating Our Anniversary at the World

When we planned this trip the fact that is was a few weeks before our 20th anniversary was really just an after thought. We didn't sit down with pen, pencil, and internet and say, "Hey let's plan an anniversary trip at Disney World". Rather, we planned the trip for a little solo get away and for an opportunity to partake in free dining. As we were discussing the options we acknowledged that since it was so close to the big 2-0, we might as well celebrate. That turned out to be a very smart decision!!!

We never noted our anniversary on our reservation. We just showed up and asked for anniversary buttons. So what happened next was even more magical because it was largely unexpected. We received countless "Happy Anniversary" greetings from CMs all over the world. Each one made us feel special and unique, like we were suddenly celebrities. It was a great feeling to be acknowledged from a group of tens of thousands.

We were treated to 3 glasses of champagne, three greeting cards, a special dessert from Cape May Cafe, a special viewing area and seating for the Voices of Liberty, balloons in our room, and our very own light up tink and mcqueen. That's a lot of loot for one couple who would be thrilled with a little confetti sprinkled on a table cloth.

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept2009-Disney159.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept2009-Disney401.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept2009-Disney253.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept2009-Disney557.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept2009-Disney556.jpg

So, thank you Disney, for making our trip even more magical. Thanks for exceeding our expectations and giving us some fabulous memories. Your smart marketing worked, because we will certainly return to celebrate more anniversaries at WDW! I can't think of a place we would rather be! ;)

Next up....highlight #4....stay tuned!

[MEK]

#4 Relaxing and Enjoying the Hollywood Tower of Terror Queue

So maybe you are wondering how this made my top 5 list. But, as many of you know, I have a love - hate relationship with ToT. It makes me nervous. I went through a period of time where it actually made me so nervous that I actually would try to avoid the ride. And on several trips I managed to do that successfully.

But something happened in June. When I saw what a blast LJ was having on ToT, I had an epiphany of sorts. Here's a kid who was soaking up every experience, without fear, without trepidation. Here's a kid who was living life for the moment, never once pausing to wonder "what if". So as I sat to LJ's left, and turned to watch his broad smile, I couldn't help but feel my fear start to diminish . In fact, I was laughing and smiling, too, by the time the ride ended. I loosened my death grip just a bit, took a heavy sigh, exhaled, and just enjoyed.

So in September, instead of shaking and sweating while standing in line, I took pictures. I relaxed, I inhaled, I enjoyed the moments spent in line, and I took the plunge. Yeah, I was still nervous. But much less so than with previous descents.

So here's a few memories from that queue.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1246.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1250.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1249.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1258.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1261.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1269.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20sept%2009%20Day%204/Sept2009-Disney1273.jpg

So for those of you who can ride ToT back to back, numerous times, this feat may not seem like much to you. But for me, relaxing and taking pictures in the ToT queue is a huge step! Plus I got some pretty cool pics and I will enjoy looking at them for years to come!

Up Next......Highlight #3.

[eandesmom]

Wow, I didn't realize you hadn't noted the anniversary in your ressies. That makes the whole experience so incredibly cool!!!!!!!!!!

But something happened in June. When I saw what a blast LJ was having on ToT, I had an epiphany of sorts. Here's a kid who was soaking up every experience, without fear, without trepidation. Here's a kid who was living life for the moment, never once pausing to wonder "what if". So as I sat to LJ's left, and turned to watch his broad smile, I couldn't help but feel my fear start to diminish . In fact, I was laughing and smiling, too, by the time the ride ended. I loosened my death grip just a bit, took a heavy sigh, exhaled, and just enjoyed.

So in September, instead of shaking and sweating while standing in line, I took pictures. I relaxed, I inhaled, I enjoyed the moments spent in line, and I took the plunge. Yeah, I was still nervous. But much less so than with previous descents.

I :love: this

How wonderful to realize and be open to what he could "teach" you! What a blessing.

[dawnbu40]

Isn't Disney just the best place to celebrate an anniversary?! We got all those good wishes too and some special desserts and it just makes you feel so good!
Those ToT pics are great! How cool that your young nephew set an example for you!

Looking forward to the next 3!

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I love the top five list idea!!! Your were spoiled rotten at Disney for your anniversary -- so cool! One day I may venture into that Tower of Terrror queue again. :rolleyes:

[jenjolt]

OOH Loving the top 5 MEK!!!! I have to agree with you on #4....love hate that about describes it!! Also a closer walk with Jesus as I board the elevator cart LOL!!!!

Can't wait for the rest of them!!

Hope you had a great holiday season!!!!

[jenjolt]

Oh, I love the top five list idea!!! Your were spoiled rotten at Disney for your anniversary -- so cool! One day I may venture into that Tower of Terrror queue again. :rolleyes:

Notice she said queue and not the actual ride LOL!!!! Love it Jackie!!! :rotfl2:

[Lady Lallie]

I love the idea of this Top 5 list. I might have to steal it for my next TR. ;) :rotfl:

I still can't believe all that you received for your anniversary, what a magical experience!

I don't think I can ever get over my fear to ride ToT. I'm just a wimp. :rotfl:

[Charleston Princess]

Notice she said queue and not the actual ride LOL!!!! Love it Jackie!!! :rotfl2:

Yes, queue first and then, I will work up to the actual ride. :lmao:

[MEK]

Wow, I didn't realize you hadn't noted the anniversary in your ressies. That makes the whole experience so incredibly cool!!!!!!!!!!



I'm positive I didn't note it, because I made the reservations through the AAA agent I use. I know that when I make DVC ressies they always ask if we are celebrating something special, but my AAA ressies are all made via emails. I have the best AAA agent - love her!


How wonderful to realize and be open to what he could "teach" you! What a blessing.

Really, when I looked over at him and realized how wonderful it would be to live in the moment without fears or phobias, I knew I had to try to let some of it go. So, yes, he did teach me through his example!

Isn't Disney just the best place to celebrate an anniversary?! We got all those good wishes too and some special desserts and it just makes you feel so good!


It really is! I could do it every year! It was fun going back through my pics last night. It made me realize, again, what a great trip this was.

Those ToT pics are great! How cool that your young nephew set an example for you!

Looking forward to the next 3!

It was fun to look at those, too. I posted them so long ago! :laughing: Yes - LJ set an example for me and I need to get him back there before he loses his childhood innocence.

Oh, I love the top five list idea!!! Your were spoiled rotten at Disney for your anniversary -- so cool! One day I may venture into that Tower of Terrror queue again. :rolleyes:

I do feel like we were spoiled rotten. But I could get very used to it! :rotfl: And you better get yourself back into the queue - there's so much to see. Who cares if you take the chicken exit?

OOH Loving the top 5 MEK!!!! I have to agree with you on #4....love hate that about describes it!! Also a closer walk with Jesus as I board the elevator cart LOL!!!!



:rotfl2: I hear ya on that one! I used to say my prayers ever step of the way. Seriously, you need a ride with LJ to calm down those pre-ride jitters!

Can't wait for the rest of them!!

Hope you had a great holiday season!!!!

Coming up tonight when I can post some more pics!:thumbsup2

My holidays were very fun and relaxing - hope yours were too!

Notice she said queue and not the actual ride LOL!!!! Love it Jackie!!! :rotfl2:

:lmao: Jen - I was trying to ignore that comment! :rolleyes1

I love the idea of this Top 5 list. I might have to steal it for my next TR. ;) :rotfl:



At work be back soon!

[manntra]

Oh, I love the top five list idea!!! Your were spoiled rotten at Disney for your anniversary -- so cool! One day I may venture into that Tower of Terrror queue again. :rolleyes:

:laughing: Sorry! ;):laughing:

Loving your top five!
#5 Your anniversary was made even more special with all of the wonderful CM's :goodvibes
#4 I always had a love/hate thing going on with TOT too....I was always really, really, scared when moving forward when it is all dark except for the line in the middle...did I describe that right? I can picture it in my head :laughing:..right before the Hidden Mickey happens :rolleyes1 I would always look off to the left or right during that....nothing else ever bothered me but that. I don't know what changed in me but it doesn't even phase me anymore. I think going with someone younger and seeing the thrill in their eyes helps...we will see what happens in May :laughing:
#3 looking forward to it! No fish pictures though :rotfl:

Tracy

[podsnel]

I am really enjoying this last bit of your TR! Especially the part about you living in the moment, exhaling and letting go....WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! :banana: That is EXCELLENT!! :thumbsup2

[Wicket's Mom]

Hello, I found your TR yesterday & finished reading all 58 pages today. Very enjoyable! Our last two trips were for our anniversary, our 40th & 43rd. No better way to celebrate an anniversary! Those were nice gifts that you received from Disney. Getting anything is sort of haphazard, our first anniversary trip nada, the last one, a free drink. You were lucky!
Anyway, great TR!

[MEK]

I love the idea of this Top 5 list. I might have to steal it for my next TR. ;) :rotfl:



Sorry I had to run out at work. But I guess that's what they pay me for. Anyhoo - I totally think you and Jen should do a top 5 list. Or maybe a top 6 list so you can each have 3 things incase you don't agree on the top 5. then again, you could always be like Stacy and do a top 10!


I still can't believe all that you received for your anniversary, what a magical experience!



I know - we left feeling sooooooo spoiled. It was wonderful!


I don't think I can ever get over my fear to ride ToT. I'm just a wimp. :rotfl:

I think what you need is a group ride. You need to have a giant Dis meet at ToT. Everyone has to ride together - no excuses!

Yes, queue first and then, I will work up to the actual ride. :lmao:

:rotfl2: Oh brother - it may be a long time, a really long time, until any of us get you on ToT! :rotfl2:

:laughing: Sorry! ;):laughing:

Loving your top five!
#5 Your anniversary was made even more special with all of the wonderful CM's :goodvibes


It was a great way to celebrate anniversary! I would like to celebrate like that every year!

:laughing: Sorry! ;):laughing:


#4 I always had a love/hate thing going on with TOT too....I was always really, really, scared when moving forward when it is all dark except for the line in the middle...did I describe that right? I can picture it in my head :laughing:..right before the Hidden Mickey happens :rolleyes1 I would always look off to the left or right during that....nothing else ever bothered me but that. I don't know what changed in me but it doesn't even phase me anymore. I think going with someone younger and seeing the thrill in their eyes helps...we will see what happens in May :laughing:


Tracy -

I love the way you described it! That part in the dark and then you feel the elevator go into the shaft and .....Whoosh.......it's go time! I watch the ride on youtube a couple of times before I go. That always helps me remember what to expect.

I'm not sure if both of our friends will get on it. I think chuck will, but I'm not so sure about his wife. She is NOT a thrill ride seeker, but I know she won't mind if the three of us go without her.

I am really enjoying this last bit of your TR! Especially the part about you living in the moment, exhaling and letting go....WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! :banana: That is EXCELLENT!! :thumbsup2

thanks Ellen - I feel like I've been working on this so long that its fun to relive the highlights. I will always remember LJ's face on the ride. That's a memory that will always stay with me and help me live in the moment!

Hello, I found your TR yesterday & finished reading all 58 pages today. Very enjoyable! Our last two trips were for our anniversary, our 40th & 43rd. No better way to celebrate an anniversary! Those were nice gifts that you received from Disney. Getting anything is sort of haphazard, our first anniversary trip nada, the last one, a free drink. You were lucky!
Anyway, great TR!


Welcome Wicket's Mom! :cheer2::woohoo::cheer2: thanks for joining in!!!! I can't believe you read the whole thing today. That is great. I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed you anniversary celebrations so much. I'm not sure how we got showered with so many cool things. I sort of expected the champagne at the signature restaurants, but the balloons and cards were totally unexpected. Anyway - like I said - the best part was having people wish us a happy anniversary. Truely - its the kindness that counts the most!

[MEK]

#3 Photographing the Animal Kingdom (aka Channeling my Inner CP)

I don't know who called it that. I think it may have been wig'd. But I came across this new passion innocently enough. I went to the AK with hopes of getting a few new photos and I discovered sights I had never seen before! Fortunately, Denny was kind enough to indulge me and I was able to spend the better part of the afternoon taking photos. All of a sudden the world became a place of angles and light, shadows and details. I started to see the park in a whole new way. I remember thinking to myself, "how did I miss so much in my last 10 visits here?"

I found a few favorite spots to photograph. They included the area around EE, particularly to the right side of the gift shop; the tree of life; the oasis. So without further ado I will post 5 or 6 of my favorites.

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney801.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney822.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney861.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney600.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney721.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney756.jpg

And there are so many more to chose from. I know my next trip will probably not afford me as many opportunities to take pictures, because I will be in my "tour guide" mode. So I am happy and delighted to have had this chance to explore beyond the surface of the park. To see a million details and only have time to photograph a thousand of them. To use my imagination to see, hear, and experience new sights, sounds, and feelings.

I hope that I will always look at the AK in a new light!

[Charleston Princess]

"Channeling your inner CP!" I am so flattered! I do love the details of Animal Kingdom and loved all the pictures you took! Makes me really anxious to be back there! :goodvibes

[dawnbu40]

I loved your AK pics! AK is the park we always spend the least amount of time in and they made me realize we need to spend more time there on our next visit!

[Lady Lallie]

I love that one of the pictures your posted was of a light fixture. :rotfl2: :thumbsup2

I think I need to do a photo tour of AK. Slow down and enjoy everything.

[MEK]

"Channeling your inner CP!" I am so flattered! I do love the details of Animal Kingdom and loved all the pictures you took! Makes me really anxious to be back there! :goodvibes

I think I better respond to one post at a time because this computer is acting cranky and slow!

I hear ya - I can't wait to get back there myself. It seems that I have a favorite park after each trip and right now AK is my FAV! I want to do a little bit more solo wandering and picture taking!

[MEK]

I loved your AK pics! AK is the park we always spend the least amount of time in and they made me realize we need to spend more time there on our next visit!

When I think of the AK I think of green - lots of green foliage! I think of hidden paths and quiet animals lurking in the brush. I think about all the little details hidden around every corner. LOVE the AK! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

I love that one of the pictures your posted was of a light fixture. :rotfl2: :thumbsup2

I think I need to do a photo tour of AK. Slow down and enjoy everything.

That is one of my favorite light fixture pictures! I tell you lady, you have got me fixated on those things!

[manntra]

I love your quote "to see a million details and only have time to photograph a thousand of them.....to use your imagination....
I think that pretty much sums up AK...there always seems to be new things to discover and stumble upon. :goodvibes


Tracy

[wigdoutdismom]

Mary Ellen, time to come and play on the new thread!

[MEK]

I love your quote "to see a million details and only have time to photograph a thousand of them.....to use your imagination....
I think that pretty much sums up AK...there always seems to be new things to discover and stumble upon. :goodvibes


Tracy

Tracy -

I have spent all afternoon shopping for my new camera! uggghhhhh! The Canon Rebel bundle is truely gone from Costco. I could kick myself for not getting it before it sold out for christmas. Now I can't find anything that compares price-wise and component-wise. I think I am going to send denny back to Bset buy to get it. they have a special where the second lens cost another $50, but its on back order. I may go with that an order the camera bag off ebay ($14.99) vs BB ($62.00). Same bag! Doh!

Either that or I am going to get the Nikon D3000. I am having a hard time with this decision.

Mary Ellen, time to come and play on the new thread!

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! Be right there!

[MEK]

So let's recap:

#5 Celebrating Our Anniversary at the World
#4 Exploring the Queue of the ToT
#3Photographing the Animal Kingdom


and #2.................Riding in the Front Seat of EE!

I know I am heavy on the Animal Kingdom this trip, but I just can't quite describe the thrill of walking onto EE and waiting all of 2 minutes for the front row. I have always liked the front row on roller coasters. It changes the rider's entire perspective. For most roller coasters it cranks up the thrill factor several big notches. EE is no exception. Not only did we get the best pictures ever, we got that intense adrenaline rush that comes with flying straight down the longest drop. One word......WOW!

So because I loved the front row soooooo much, I thought it was only fitting that I post some pictures of that memorable ride! :thumbsup2



http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney564.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney567.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney568.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney569.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney571.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney573.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney574.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney578.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/Sept%202009%20Day%203/Sept2009-Disney580.jpg

I said this before, these are my favorite series of photos from this trip. And I owe it all to Denny! I don't know if I'll be lucky enough to get the front row in May, but I certainly plan to ride EE in the dark. I bet dark and front row is an awesome combination!

Up Next.....My #1 Trip highlight!

[kschafer]

I don't know if I'll be lucky enough to get the front row in May, but I certainly plan to ride EE in the dark. I bet dark and front row is an awesome combination!



Me too!!!!! :cool1:

[wigdoutdismom]

Thanks to you and your pictures I really took more time gazing at the tree of life! I just never took the time until you pointed it out!
We lucked out with front row seats on EE, didn't even have to request it but we would have.....
I think riding front row in the dark would be awesome!
Also a giant fan of TOT. Would love to be there for the group ride.
We'll miss you by a few short weeks.

[eandesmom]

In general Mary Ellen, you have some AMAZING shots this trip. TOT queue, AK and Denny's EE shots. No wonder you made a calendar! I just love that shot of the tracks.

What a treat to be able to stop and LOOK for light and shadow.

You have a great top 4...I can't wait to see what #1 is!!!!!!!!

[dawnbu40]

I am impressed by your bravery! Not only am I too chicken to ride EE again (yes I rode it once but never saw anything because I kept my eyes closed :rotfl:) I could NEVER sit in the front seat! To top it off you guys got those incredible pics! Very cool!

Looking forward to #1

[mickeysmyboy]

Since I was behind I'm going to comment on a few posts!!!

I can't believe how grown up your boys look now!!! I love the first picture and the tough guy looks they have on their faces!!! :lmao:

Your pictures of Ellicott City are beautiful! I'm 95% sure that's where our DVC guide is originally from!

I love your snow pictures!!! The kitties are too cute and I love the name Kismet!!! I tried to take pictures of our dog, Pluto, in the snow but he was too busy being a puppy and hopping around the yard to get a picture that wasn't a complete blur!

I love your top 5!!!!

Disney really knows how to make you feel special and give you a little extra magic! DH and I certainly felt that way on our aniversary trip!

I totally understand what you mean about TOT! That is a big moment!!! I'm not sure I could ever even get that far! It's really great to overcome some of the fear and actually enoy yourself enough to enjoy the ride!

Your Animal Kingdom pics are beautiful!! I love them all!!! You did a fabulous job! I'd love to take a photography trip to WDW! Just to take all the different sight, all the little details etc! Ahhh!!! That would be lovely!!

Riding in the front of EE must have been so cool and those pictures are too cool!! I love them!!

I can't wait for you #1!!!!

[Charleston Princess]

You were so brave, Mary Ellen, and Denny did get some great pictures! :worship:

[manntra]

Love your #2!! One of my favorites! Can't wait to ride it in the dark :woohoo:

I am so confused about what to do with the camera situation. :confused3 I really want a SLR but I really need a laptop :confused: I use my iPhone at home a lot in place of my laptop and it is getting old...I am on the borderline for bifocals and it's not helping!!!:laughing: So I don't know what to do.....I have 3 regular digital cameras, one with a touchscreen and one that is waterproof so it's not like I won't be able to take pictures. Grrrrrrr I hate making decisions like this.
I know some people who are very happy with the Nikon too and I think it is much more affordable.
Isn't it crazy with some of the stuff on eBay? You can really find some good deals but then some people will have the same item listed for more than what you would pay in the store. Who would actually fall for that? :laughing: I'm sure enough do. :confused:

Tracy

[Lady Lallie]

I am going to ride Expedition Everest for sure in TWO SHORT WEEKS! :yay:

I'm a little scared but I think I can handle it.


Those pictures Denny captured are just amazing.

[MEK]

Me too!!!!! :cool1:

Are we meeting for a night time ride on EE???? I hope so and I hope that Tracy will join us, too! I think Ellen and the Dismoms will be home by then.

Thanks to you and your pictures I really took more time gazing at the tree of life! I just never took the time until you pointed it out!


Reading someone else's TR and seeing there pictures is exactly how I got interested in spending sometime viewing the animals in the TOL. In fact, I brought my computer to work today just to show a few interested people those pics. They seemed understandbly impressed!

We lucked out with front row seats on EE, didn't even have to request it but we would have.....


:woohoo: the front row is the bomb. So glad you got to ride up front, especially during Christmas week. That rocks!

I think riding front row in the dark would be awesome!


:thumbsup2 Can't wait!

Also a giant fan of TOT. Would love to be there for the group ride.
We'll miss you by a few short weeks.

How fun would that be? I would love to arrange a group ride!


In general Mary Ellen, you have some AMAZING shots this trip. TOT queue, AK and Denny's EE shots. No wonder you made a calendar! I just love that shot of the tracks.

What a treat to be able to stop and LOOK for light and shadow.



thanks - its been fun to see how my picture taking has progressed just because I have been looking for new ways to photograph things for the Dis. I just want to really learn how to take pics one of these days!



You have a great top 4...I can't wait to see what #1 is!!!!!!!!

My top #1 is pretty much a no brainer! When I post it you will say "doh"!

I am impressed by your bravery! Not only am I too chicken to ride EE again (yes I rode it once but never saw anything because I kept my eyes closed :rotfl:) I could NEVER sit in the front seat! To top it off you guys got those incredible pics! Very cool!

Looking forward to #1

Denny is actually much braver than I am, cause he took the pictures. I would have been too freaked that the camera would fly out of my hands. Plus I don't think I'll try anything like that with my new camera. I will be a complete nervous wreck!!!!!!

OK - Denny is asking for his computer back (cause Nick is using mine right now - his is being fixed), so I will be back later tonight or early am with more replies and my #1 and my final thoughts!

[MEK]

Since I was behind I'm going to comment on a few posts!!!

I can't believe how grown up your boys look now!!! I love the first picture and the tough guy looks they have on their faces!!! :lmao:



Tough guy look? or tortured teenagers? I was just happy to get a picture with all 6 boys together. Yeah - my boys continue to change right in front of my eyes. It's only been 6 months since you saw them in June.

Your pictures of Ellicott City are beautiful! I'm 95% sure that's where our DVC guide is originally from!



Thanks - that is a pretty little town. I have always wanted to go there, so I'm glad I got a chance to nose around.


I love your snow pictures!!! The kitties are too cute and I love the name Kismet!!! I tried to take pictures of our dog, Pluto, in the snow but he was too busy being a puppy and hopping around the yard to get a picture that wasn't a complete blur!



Oh yeah - I don't have to worry about those cats hopping around too much. They are complete sissys when it comes to wet and cold. What is so funny is they have no memory of what is outside. Every hour they will ask to go back outside as if the snow has magically disappeared!


Disney really knows how to make you feel special and give you a little extra magic! DH and I certainly felt that way on our aniversary trip!



You guys really did have a wonderful anniversary trip. I can't wait to do it again! ;)




I totally understand what you mean about TOT! That is a big moment!!! I'm not sure I could ever even get that far! It's really great to overcome some of the fear and actually enoy yourself enough to enjoy the ride!



I can honestly say I really DID enjoy ToT this trip! I hope I keep the calm next trip! :laughing:

Your Animal Kingdom pics are beautiful!! I love them all!!! You did a fabulous job! I'd love to take a photography trip to WDW! Just to take all the different sight, all the little details etc! Ahhh!!! That would be lovely!!

Riding in the front of EE must have been so cool and those pictures are too cool!! I love them!!


A photography trip to WDW - wouldn't that be great? They should do that - offer photography tours where you go around with a guide who points out interesting things and you get to shot them. hmmmmmmm! That's an idea.

Riding EE up front was great - I definately recommend it!

You were so brave, Mary Ellen, and Denny did get some great pictures! :worship:

The bravery award goes to Denny since he had to hold on to that camera!!!!!

He was gloating over his pictures the other night, when I showed them to him again! :laughing:

Love your #2!! One of my favorites! Can't wait to ride it in the dark :woohoo:



I really do think we should plan a night time ride for May!????? I think Katie's in!


I am so confused about what to do with the camera situation. :confused3 I really want a SLR but I really need a laptop :confused: I use my iPhone at home a lot in place of my laptop and it is getting old...I am on the borderline for bifocals and it's not helping!!!:laughing: So I don't know what to do.....I have 3 regular digital cameras, one with a touchscreen and one that is waterproof so it's not like I won't be able to take pictures. Grrrrrrr I hate making decisions like this.
I know some people who are very happy with the Nikon too and I think it is much more affordable.


Well - if you need a new computer, then I think that definately takes priority. I did finally pick out my camera. I will post the details later today after I pick it up. I feel a little quilty for spending so much on the camera, but I really want it and I know its a quality investment!

Now - I just wish I had an iphone, but we are married to Verizon! :sad2:

Isn't it crazy with some of the stuff on eBay? You can really find some good deals but then some people will have the same item listed for more than what you would pay in the store. Who would actually fall for that? :laughing: I'm sure enough do. :confused:



When I was looking at the camera bundles on Ebay it was getting ridiculous. They would list every little thing that came with the camera and make it seem like an extra. It just got too confusing, so I gave up! I know you can get some deals on ebay, but you really need to do your research.


I am going to ride Expedition Everest for sure in TWO SHORT WEEKS! :yay:

I'm a little scared but I think I can handle it.


.

Oh LL - I know you can handle it. It's going to be a tad scary, but when it is over this will be you ......:woohoo::cool1::cheer2::banana::woohoo:! If you started to get scared the two tricks are - look at your feet or close your eyes - works every time!


Those pictures Denny captured are just amazing.

They definately are my favorite pictures of the whole trip!

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey ME....

I hope you had and Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New Year...:goodvibes

I've been behind on my TRs and am catching up...

love your photos of Ellicot, MD...(is that closer to Wilmington or Baltimore...? and your Thanksgiving photos..

(I have to go back to read your wrap up...:surfweb:)

[manntra]

I just ordered my Mac last night. :guilty: I was so torn but I think I did the right thing. :confused3
Well on the bright side I will be able to see all of your wonderful pictures on your TR after we get home! :thumbsup2
You betcha I'm in for an EE ride at night. I have a Boma reservation a bit after 8 I think but that isn't a big deal because I am at Kidani and the park is so close.
Happy New Year! Can't wait to hear all about your new camera and which one you chose! :woohoo:

Tracy

[MEK]

Hey ME....

I hope you had and Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New Year...:goodvibes




Same to you Patricia!!!!! pixiedust:pixiedust:




I've been behind on my TRs and am catching up...

love your photos of Ellicot, MD...(is that closer to Wilmington or Baltimore...? and your Thanksgiving photos..

(I have to go back to read your wrap up...:surfweb:)

I keep getting behind on TR's, too. In fact, I am behind on your PTR and I hope I didn't miss any major new updates.

Gald you like the Elicott City pics. It's a bit south of Baltimore, pretty close to Columbia Md.

I just ordered my Mac last night. :guilty: I was so torn but I think I did the right thing. :confused3
Well on the bright side I will be able to see all of your wonderful pictures on your TR after we get home! :thumbsup2


I definately think you did the right thing ordering the Mac. I would LOVE to have a Mac. When this computer goes that's what I really want. They are supposed to be great for recording music. You gotta go with what's the priority.

IYou betcha I'm in for an EE ride at night. I have a Boma reservation a bit after 8 I think but that isn't a big deal because I am at Kidani and the park is so close.




:woohoo: Yeah! I was hoping you would be up for that. We actually have a 745 ADR at Yak n Yeti, so I plan to get off of EE at 740! :laughing: I can't wait to ride at night. It is going to be a blast!

Happy New Year! Can't wait to hear all about your new camera and which one you chose! :woohoo:

Tracy

Happy NY's to you to!

I got the Canon Rebel Xsi! I really had my heart set on it every since I saw it at Costco. I had to do a lot of internet searching and make a bunch of calls, but I was able to get a decent price at Best Buy with the additional lens. The second lens is on back order, but I picked the camera up today. I got home so late we decided to wait until tomorrow to go to Longwood Gardens. I've taken a few pictures around the house and now I am watching some Youtube vides on how to use the manual settings. It's really nice and light and has a good feel, so I don't think it will be too cumbersome in the park. I'm also thinking of taking a photo class at a community college.

anyhoo - I will post some pics after I take some at Longwood tomorrow.

Have a Great NY's. Denny and I are just staying home. It's going to be a quiet night with a few glasses of wine and a movie. I actually have to sing at church tomorrow at 10am so I can't do anything too crazy!

[podsnel]

That's the one I have- love the xsi, I've been really happy with it. :goodvibes Congratulations!!! It's very exciting to have a "real" camera again, isn't it? There's a great book on the camera- it's one of those "For Dummies" books- that helps a LOT in trying to figure it all out. Have a great time at Longwood Gardens- I've always wanted to go there, I'm sure it will be beautiful with all the Christmas stuff!

Oh- and we rode EE front row in November- the whole ride, I thought of you!!:goodvibes It's CRAZY fun up front!! Tyler also did RR front row this trip- Timmy & I were right behind him (it was Tim's first RnR ride, so pretty brave in the first car!). Fun, fun stuff. Can't wait to see what #1 is.....:hyper:

[manntra]

:woohoo: for the xsi! That is the one that I was going to get! :goodvibes I really did need the new laptop though...I will just live vicariously through your awesome pictures! That is such a great idea watching youtube for ideas!! You can find anything on the internet! Also check out the photography thread on the Dis....especially for fireworks settings tips :thumbsup2 This will work out great for me because when I finally get mine you will have yours all figured out! :laughing:
Happy New Year !!!!
Tracy

[MEK]

That's the one I have- love the xsi, I've been really happy with it. :goodvibes Congratulations!!! It's very exciting to have a "real" camera again, isn't it? There's a great book on the camera- it's one of those "For Dummies" books- that helps a LOT in trying to figure it all out. Have a great time at Longwood Gardens- I've always wanted to go there, I'm sure it will be beautiful with all the Christmas stuff!



Hey Ellen -

I am excited to have the camera and Longwood was beautiful. Unfortunately, we did not arrive until dusk and being a novice with the camera, some of my indoor, low light shots are not the best. I think I deleted more than I actually saved! :laughing:

The outdoor lights were so beautiful! I needed a tripod for those (which will be my next purchase). Denny and I did have a nice time. Well, let's just say that Denny never complained as I took 5 million pictures and then deleted 4.9 million. I hope I have a few decent ones to show you!


Oh- and we rode EE front row in November- the whole ride, I thought of you!!:goodvibes It's CRAZY fun up front!! Tyler also did RR front row this trip- Timmy & I were right behind him (it was Tim's first RnR ride, so pretty brave in the first car!). Fun, fun stuff. Can't wait to see what #1 is.....:hyper:

OMG! Wasn't it great! That was brave of Timmy to do the front row on his first ride! Wowsa - I don't think I am that brave! I can't wait to see your ride pics!!!!

:woohoo: for the xsi! That is the one that I was going to get! :goodvibes I really did need the new laptop though...I will just live vicariously through your awesome pictures! That is such a great idea watching youtube for ideas!! You can find anything on the internet! Also check out the photography thread on the Dis....especially for fireworks settings tips :thumbsup2 This will work out great for me because when I finally get mine you will have yours all figured out! :laughing:
Happy New Year !!!!
Tracy

I am a little frustrated because I would like to have it figured out NOW! Plus, I really want to try the second lens, which is on back order. I hope I have some decent shots from Longwood. I still have to download the software on my computer, so hopefully I will do that later today!

The youtube videos are working well, because I am a visual learner. But I have to hear everything about 5 times before it finally sinks in. Anyway, I hope to get it eventually. I will keep you posted as to my progress!

[eandesmom]

Congrats on the new camera!!!!!!!!!

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey ME,

Longwood Gardens is absolutely lovely...:goodvibes

I hope you do post some pictures...we didn't get there this year for Christmas but we try to go at least every other year...it's so pretty in the spring/summer too...:goodvibes...

I just looked up your new camera and kudos to you:thumbsup2...I'm not anywhere near the point where I need extra "lenses"...:lmao:

I'd just like a decent point and shoot...I'm hoping to get a new camera for our trips this year but I need the "Camera for Dummies" (at least when it comes to photography) version...;)

So congrats on your new baby...hope to see some pictures soon...;)

[praisehisname]

I'm loving the recap; what a great way to end the report! Can't wait to hear #1!!!

[MEK]

Congrats on the new camera!!!!!!!!!

Thanks. It really is a slick, new little toy!

Hey ME,

Longwood Gardens is absolutely lovely...:goodvibes

I hope you do post some pictures...we didn't get there this year for Christmas but we try to go at least every other year...it's so pretty in the spring/summer too...:goodvibes...



Hey 3P's - Longwood was beautiful. It was very crowded and very cold outside, but we had a really nice time. It was beautiful. So much to see. I just edited on my pics - so I am going to put them on photobucket soon!


I just looked up your new camera and kudos to you:thumbsup2...I'm not anywhere near the point where I need extra "lenses"...:lmao:

I'd just like a decent point and shoot...I'm hoping to get a new camera for our trips this year but I need the "Camera for Dummies" (at least when it comes to photography) version...;)

So congrats on your new baby...hope to see some pictures soon...;)

This camera is totally slick and I am really trying to learn how to use it. I have spent a lot of time reading, watching videos, and practicing. Some of the things I understand in theory - but can't put into practice yet. It is going to take some time, I think. Anyway, the camera is nice and light weight and feels very comfortable, so I don't think it will be too cumbersome to take anywhere. But I was a little uncomfortable around all those peeps, despite having a secure grip on the camera.

I hope to get a few pics up soon.

I'm loving the recap; what a great way to end the report! Can't wait to hear #1!!!

Glad you like the recap. I've got to get it done tonight - no more procrastinating! :laughing:

[MEK]

OK, OK - I Know I have to wrap up this TR. I've let it go on too long. I have procrastinated. I have one more (possibly two) installments to do. I have to write about my #1 highlight of the trip and I would like to have a few parting thoughts about the trip in general.

I know I need to put this puppy to rest, but I am having trouble breaking free. Not sure why. I guess its because I don't write PTR's. I think they are bad luck. If there is any trip I don't want bad luck with, its this one. And when I say bad luck, I generally mean something related to the teenage boys. Leaving them at home makes me NERVOUS! anyway - I digress.

So, before I right my last installment, I am going to post a couple pics taken with my new camera. Remember, I am a total novice. Up until a few days ago I knew nothing about Fstops, apeture, and shutter speed. I have been working with all the auto modes on the camera, but I am also trying to figure out the manual modes. So here a few different pics I 've taken over the last three days......

On the way to Longwood Gardens.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0132.jpg

The Chesapeake & Delaware Canal Bridge (which I cross everyday):

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0129.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0130.jpg

Random trees:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0134.jpg

Black & white shot:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0442.jpg

Pass this sign everyday:
http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0138.jpg

The city of wilmington (I did a lot of color editing to this):

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0145.jpg

A cool old house along Rt 1 Near Longwood Gardens:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0161.jpg

Dusk at Longwood:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0165.jpg

An amazing poinsetta ball (Here is where I started having trouble with lighting, flash vs no flash, manual vs auto):

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0179.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0178.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0189.jpg

Now these next four shots I took in 4 different modes. Don't ask me what they were, cause they were some combination of auto, maual, flash / no flash:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0190.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0191.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0193.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0194.jpg

I accidently discovered the black n white mode (monochrome) and I found that I really liked it:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0200.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0201.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0202.jpg

This was the most beautiful display, but I could not get a good shot of it to save my life. Everything kept coming out dark and I was cursing Denny under my breath for insisting that he had to watch half the Penn State game before we could leave! I needed natural light for my first outing with the camera!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0204.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0207.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0208.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0209.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0210.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0214.jpg

Continued in next post....... (Yeah, Yeah....I know .....I got carried away with the pics)

[kschafer]

Are we meeting for a night time ride on EE???? I hope so and I hope that Tracy will join us, too!

I think all 3 of us are planning on the evening EMH at AK (on the 5th maybe?) Tracy suggested in another thread that we should meet at the Y&Y bar first :thumbsup2

[MEK]

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0212.jpg

Who on the Dis boards can go anywhere and not shoot multiple light fixtures while thinking about LL??????

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0211.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0215.jpg

I did A LOT of editing to this next shot:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0219.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0223.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0217.jpg

Going for the Artsy Black N White pics again......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0220.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0222.jpg


Different Editing.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0229.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0230.jpg

Next Up.......Macro shots.....This room was SOOOOOOO crowded with everyone snapping photos:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0234.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0236.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0238.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0239.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0244.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0246.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0247.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0245.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0250.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0252.jpg

More of the poinsettas.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0256.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0257.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0258.jpg

Look at this crazy bad boy........ this baby is sprouting antennas!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0273.jpg

What's Christmas without Christmas trees (these are decorated by local school children) Disclaimer - these pics are NOT the best!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0259.jpg

[MEK]

Continued.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0260.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0262.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0264.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0268.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0267.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0263.jpg

Moving right along.......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0278.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0279.jpg

This camera does take some great macro shots.....

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0293.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0294.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0298.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0299.jpg

Of course, what is a Christmas display without trains......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0318.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0329.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0332.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0337.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0341.jpg



http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0338.jpg

We took a break and went back inside to get a few more shots. Practice, practice, practice!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0372.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0374.jpg

LL.....Now this is a totally cool light fixture:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0394.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0392.jpg

I think the rest of these pictures I was trying manual focus, so they aren't as great!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0378.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0399.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0435.jpg

Continued.......

[MEK]

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0433.jpg

And two more black n whites just for the heck of it......

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0428.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0426.jpg

And, last but not least........

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0082.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0083.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0086.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0087.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0088.jpg

PSYCH.....they're from my tree!!!!!! LOL!

[MEK]

I think all 3 of us are planning on the evening EMH at AK (on the 5th maybe?) Tracy suggested in another thread that we should meet at the Y&Y bar first :thumbsup2

Perfect idea...Y&Y bar then EE!!!!!! :thumbsup2

[Lady Lallie]

Great pics, Mek! I think they look good. I know it took me awhile to get a handle on my camera settings and I just kept taking it out and practicing. You'll have GORGEOUS photos by May.

Love that light fixture, I love the unique looking ones.

[MEK]

Great pics, Mek! I think they look good. I know it took me awhile to get a handle on my camera settings and I just kept taking it out and practicing. You'll have GORGEOUS photos by May.

Love that light fixture, I love the unique looking ones.

Thanks LL! I've got a long way to go, but for pretty much right out of the box this camera takes some really nice shots. Once my second lens comes in, I'm thinking tripod for the night shots. It's amazing how slow the shutter speed is for nighttime and I have way to much camera shake. It's fun to post the pics now, so I can go back and look at them later when (if) I improve!

That was a very cool light fixture, just hanging there waiting for someone to notice it!

[MEK]

So, the number 1 highlight of my trip was none other than........MNSSHP Wow - what a winner! I am so glad we decided to attend. I wish we had real costumes, but that didn't put a damper on the fun! The access to rides was great, the theming was spectacular, the candy was fun (for me - DH was a party pooper when it came to trick or treating), the photopass opportunities were so unique, and the parade was top notch! I loved this party - it was definately an experience I would like to repeat.

So, without any further adieu - Here are a few pictures of the memorable night:

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1196-1.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1199-1.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney992.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1331.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1343.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1016.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1040.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1091.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1107.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/Disney%20Sept%2009%20Day%202/MNSSHP/Sept2009-Disney1112.jpg

Up Next....final thoughts!

[eandesmom]

And, last but not least........

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0082.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0083.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0086.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0087.jpg

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee279/mekopp/New%20Camera%20Pics/IMG_0088.jpg

PSYCH.....they're from my tree!!!!!! LOL!

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

:thumbsup2

You've got some great shots in there! I love the empty train track one for some reason. Lovely composition. How fun and what great timing to start playing now, you will be a master by the next trip!

Oh I want another camera.....

Selfishly I wish you'd do a PTR but I do get the rationale....

I LOVE your #1 choice and what a great photo recap of a wonderful night!!!!

So really, draw this one out as long as you want!

:thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

Great shots at Longwood! It's very pretty there!

MNSSHP is wonderful!!! Loved the pictures recap! Makes me want to go again next year just to see that wonderful parade again! :lovestruc

[dawnbu40]

I think we've been to all the parties Disney has offered (MNSSHP, MVMCP, P&P and Grad Nite) and they are all wonderful! I think they really make the whole trip extra special! So glad you enjoyed the party! I can't wait to attend again in Sept!

[ILuvCrush]

Congrats on the new Camera MEK! You got some great shots... especially for just getting used to it!

I'm impressed you tried manual focus! I still autofocus the vast majority of time...I never seem to have long enough to mess w/manual, unless I'm doing portraits of VERY still beings (like my Christmas tree LOL!)or something like that and no one is rushing me to get somewhere! Besides...I think manual focusing is hard!:upsidedow

I love MNSSHP! You photo highlight series makes me excited that I'm already booked to go again this year!!

Paula

[manntra]

Those are some great pictures ME! You got some great close up shots! :thumbsup2 So nice to see flowers in the middle of a deep freeze! ;)
The colors are so vibrant and they just pop...you can really tell the difference with that camera. ::yes::
Soon enough you will be making your own youtube instructional videos! :cool1:
I loved MNSSHP too. :goodvibes Can't wait to do it again!

Tracy

[PracPerfPatricia]

I just love your photo tour of Longwood ME...:thumbsup2 And I was super excited since I've been there so I was just following along (through the entrance, and the grand conservatory, the orchid room (warmish) and the steam mediterranean and tropical plant areas (I'm a geek-I know...:lmao:) and then I got all excited because I thought they had a Disney tree this year...

You big teaser...:eek:...you did get me with that one for what it's worth...:rotfl:

I love your MNSSHP wrap up...thanks for allowing me to live vicariously through your photos...I absolutely cannot wait to do that when we are there in October (I think that other than the fact that it will be Em's b-day and that is the most special thing...the party will be my favorite too...:goodvibes

PTRs are bad luck...are they...:scared1:

:surfweb:

[Wicket's Mom]

Love your photos, especially the Micky ornaments. The photos make me want to dig out my SLR & use it again. I really like my little Canon digital, takes marvelous photos, but the SLR was great for arty stuff. Now I have all this camera stuff that I don't use any more.

I couldn't talk my DH into the Halloween party, but I won't miss it the next time.

[MEK]

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

:thumbsup2

You've got some great shots in there! I love the empty train track one for some reason. Lovely composition. How fun and what great timing to start playing now, you will be a master by the next trip!

Oh I want another camera.....

Selfishly I wish you'd do a PTR but I do get the rationale....

I LOVE your #1 choice and what a great photo recap of a wonderful night!!!!

So really, draw this one out as long as you want!

:thumbsup2

Thanks Cynthia -

I did learn a few things while taking those pics. I learned that I should avoid the manual focus ! But for awhile I had it in manual focus and didn't even realize it. Geesh!

As far the PTR, I'm just going to chill on everyone elses pre and post TR reports until May. I'm gonna follow manntra (tracy) around, cause she is all over these here boards!!!!!!

The other wierd thing is that writing TRs makes me want to take more trips. I realized today that when I don't spend as much time on the boards, I don't have this urge to go to disney every three months!!!!

Great shots at Longwood! It's very pretty there!

MNSSHP is wonderful!!! Loved the pictures recap! Makes me want to go again next year just to see that wonderful parade again! :lovestruc

Thanks Jackie. Longwood is beautiful and it put me in the Disney mood. The mood to take pictures of everything and anything! :rotfl:

I really want to go next year during the fall, too. One way or another I am going - either solo, with the soccer moms, or I might even take LJ back. We'll see!

I think we've been to all the parties Disney has offered (MNSSHP, MVMCP, P&P and Grad Nite) and they are all wonderful! I think they really make the whole trip extra special! So glad you enjoyed the party! I can't wait to attend again in Sept!

The parties are all great! I would really like to attend a P&P party. I hope they come back some day. I think that would be really fun. And Grad night???? I have to look into that. Since I will had a grad next year - hopefully!

Congrats on the new Camera MEK! You got some great shots... especially for just getting used to it!

I'm impressed you tried manual focus! I still autofocus the vast majority of time...I never seem to have long enough to mess w/manual, unless I'm doing portraits of VERY still beings (like my Christmas tree LOL!)or something like that and no one is rushing me to get somewhere! Besides...I think manual focusing is hard!



Thanks Paula! I have a long way to go, but its a start. The whole manual focus was just a fluke. I really had no idea what I was doing. I will definately stick with auto focus from now on. What looks focused on manual, really wasn't focused all that well.


I love MNSSHP! You photo highlight series makes me excited that I'm already booked to go again this year!!



MNSSHP was great. I can't wait until I see pictures of your halloween costumes. But at the rate Jen is going, she'll be posting those pics in July. Sorry - Jen - I'm just kidding (sort of) :rotfl:

Those are some great pictures ME! You got some great close up shots! So nice to see flowers in the middle of a deep freeze! ;)
The colors are so vibrant and they just pop...you can really tell the difference with that camera. ::yes::


The macro shots really did turn out the best. I can't believe how life-like some of those flowers are. I can see a huge difference there.

The image stabilization in the lens also made it easy to take pictures from a moving car. I was surprised about that.

Now I just have to fine a way to get clearer night time pics. When I use the nightime mode I create too much camera shake without the tripod. :confused3

Soon enough you will be making your own youtube instructional videos! :cool1:


:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: NOT!!!!!! (but I wish)

I loved MNSSHP too. :goodvibes Can't wait to do it again!



Are you already booked for next fall?

Before I close this bad boy down I need to take inventory to find out when everyone is going!

Also - what's this about Y&Y bar before EE? I am so in for that!!!!!

I just love your photo tour of Longwood ME...:thumbsup2 And I was super excited since I've been there so I was just following along (through the entrance, and the grand conservatory, the orchid room (warmish) and the steam mediterranean and tropical plant areas (I'm a geek-I know...) and then I got all excited because I thought they had a Disney tree this year...

You big teaser...:eek:...you did get me with that one for what it's worth...:rotfl:



I wanted to get better pictures in the Grand conservatory. That's why I went back twice. I would love to try it again in the middle of the day with a tripod. You know - it still runs through the 10th. I bet its lovely this week because its probably empty right now.

Sorry I got you on the Disney tree. I couldn't help it. But I missed taking a picture of one of my favorite ornaments. And those ball ornaments - I got them for $4 for 8 ornaments at Goodwill. I must have walked in the morning right after they put them out! :thumbsup2 I was more excited about those ornaments then anything else I bought that Christmas! That's when you know you are a true Disney geek - when you start bragging about your cheap Goodwill disney ornaments!!!!!


I love your MNSSHP wrap up...thanks for allowing me to live vicariously through your photos...I absolutely cannot wait to do that when we are there in October (I think that other than the fact that it will be Em's b-day and that is the most special thing...the party will be my favorite too...:goodvibes

:

I can't wait to go back to MNSSHP either. You are going to have such a great time for Em's birthday. It's such a great time of year to be there.

PTRs are bad luck...are they...:scared1:

:surfweb:

Nah - they aren't. I just have a little phobia about PTRs. My worst fear is having to cancel a Disney trip. I think that's why I never want to do a PTR. I'm afraid to jinx my trip. Totally illogical - I know! :sad2:

Love your photos, especially the Micky ornaments. The photos make me want to dig out my SLR & use it again. I really like my little Canon digital, takes marvelous photos, but the SLR was great for arty stuff. Now I have all this camera stuff that I don't use any more.



Thanks! Oh - you should dig out your SLR. I am so jealous of people who know what they are doing. But I WILL learn!!!! You owe yourself a few artsy shots on your next trip!


I couldn't talk my DH into the Halloween party, but I won't miss it the next time.

You'll just have to leave your DH back in the room next trip. There's enough people on the boards that would want to go with you.

[Lady Lallie]

I love your #1!

MNSSHP is just so much fun, I can't wait to get back there. It's so neat how it gives MK a totally different feel.

[MEK]

I love your #1!

MNSSHP is just so much fun, I can't wait to get back there. It's so neat how it gives MK a totally different feel.

Agreed! The theming is superb - can't wait to go again next year!

[MEK]

with a disclaimer....... I am having computer issues. My lap top keeps going black and I have to hibernate it and let it come back alive. It's quite annoying. The boys and I each have a refurbed IBM T41/42. We bought these from a friend of ours who runs a computer business specializing in refurbing used IBM work computers. I have had the computer for over 2 years and it is a great work horse. I wanted something cheap (inexpensive) since my first HP lap top completely broke after 2 years - dead as a doornail. It was expensive and it made me sick to spend that kind of $ for two years. Our friends fix these computers for free and they help with system maintenance. It's great because when they tell this thing is fried, I know its done. I may just get another one.

So, this bad boy keeps blacking out. When I can't stand it anymore, I quit.

I love to post final thoughts, especially after a really great trip. And this was a really great trip - definately one of my favorites. Everything was perfect - the timing, the weather, the crowds, the food, the cast members. I have no complaints.

So let's begin......

Pop Century.....I'll admit, I was a little worried about staying at Pop after our wonderful trip to Kidani in June. Heck, I had a hard time going from Kidani to CSR. It just felt like such a downgrade. But fortunately enough time passed and I was able to feel quite comfortable at Pop. The room was clean, the furnishings were adequate, the location was excellent, and the resort was probably not anywhere near capacity. As DawnBu said - the resort was great for September, but its probably not where you want to be during the high crowd season. I completely agree with this.

I have already informed Denny that when are kids are both in college we will be traveling to WDW in Sept/Oct, Jan, and May. I would like to combine our fall trips with a short stay at Pop. It's my prediction that free dining will be around for awhile, so why not take advantage of it for a few days then segway into a DVC stay for food and wine. Pop is a great resort for free dining.

As far as the turbo toilets - well, our first few days were silent. Of course, you may remember that on the third day I woke to the sound of a power pee. That was jarring, to say the least. You know how things sounds really loud when you first wake up - well that's what it was like. I always think my alarm sounds REALLY loud first thing in the morning. Well, this was like my alarm. A bodily function alarm. Somebody else's bodily function!

The DxDP......I can't say enough good things about this. 4 days was a perfect length of time for the Dxdp. Any longer than that and I would have been in a food coma. I am so glad we decided to add this. For $60 a day it added a huge value to our trip. I am glad we decided to spend money on food and cut back on the resort. We tried so many wonderful new restaurants including Narcoosee's, Flying fish, Artist Point, and the Tusker House. And, of course, we enjoyed our old favorites as well like the Cape May Cafe, Brown Derby, Kona Cafe, and LTT. I think the DXDP is really the way to go if you want to focus on the signature restaurants. I still have a few more signatures I'd like to try including Citricos, Yachtsman, & Jiko. The food was excellent and the cast members at every eatery were exemplary.

OK - this computer is starting to drive me crazy, so I will add a few more final comments at work tomorrow.

Thanks for reading!!!!!!

[Charleston Princess]

Great final thoughts, Mary Ellen! I find myself planning out Disney trips for when I retire -- a nice, long Food and Wine trip is always at the top of the list. :rotfl:

[eandesmom]

Gosh when you put it at $60 a day it doesn't sound like so much. Something to look forward to if we ever do an adult only trip!

Wonderful final thoughts, Disney 3x4 times a year, I can't imagine how lovely that would be!

Nice thoughts on POP. I think both the values and the mods would be a heck of a lot easier to do with just 2 people instead of a larger group.

Just reading where you ate makes me hungry, are you doing the deluxe plan for the WL trip? I can't recall.

I hope your computer shapes up soon!

[dawnbu40]

I totally agree that upgrading the food plan during free dining is the way to go! It's a great deal and allows you to try the signatures which you might not try otherwise!

[MEK]

(I will respond to individual posts, but I kinda wanted to wrap this up)

There is one more thing I wanted to say about the Dxdp - I do think 2 sitdown meals a day are a bit time consuming, but in September it was a non-issue. It fit perfectly and I enjoyed doing two sits downs. Three sitdowns would have been too much. Actually, though, a noontime sit down is probably preferable to standing a 1/2hr in a long counter service line.

Rental Car - I know that some people never rent cars, but I think they also add some value to the trip, particularly if you get a good deal. I think we paid about $120 for the four days. I consider that to be a good deal (it may have even been less than that). I was carrying three different reservations during the last week before my trip. I did find that rates dropped about 7 days prior to departure and I went with the lowest on site price. This happened to be the old L&M (the new name escapes me). Last December we rented the mystery car from them which was a 5 speed hundai with nonpower everything. The car was exceptionally clean and in excellent running order. This year's car ended up being an upgrade, because we returned the first car. Both cars were in need of wheel alignments, but the first car was worse. We would have needed to return the second car, had we not been going just to WDW. The car was not suitable for extensive highway driving as there was considerable wheel shake when driving over 65mph. We never drove that fast around WDW, so it was a non-issue. Otherwise the car was clean and comfortable. It just disturbs me that a rental car agency would let two cars continue to go back into service that need maintenance. I will be hesitant to rent from them in the future.

The rental car did make it easy for us to commute all over property, while allowing us to maintain our "last minute" habits. That's just us - always leaving at the last minute for everything. The only negs were the self parking at the GF and at the Boardwalk. All the other parking lots were great. And of course, the biggest drawback to self parking was that I wore the wrong shoes and then paid the price with blisters. If my feet were in there normal state, walking for East jibbip would have been just a minor annoyance.

I am also pleased to announce that we did not have to venture off site for any reason this trip. It's true - Denny did not leave his belt in the airport (like he did last December), nor did he run out of underwear or socks. I think that's because I packed extra. :rolleyes1

The addition of the rental car and the DxDP cost us a tad more than it would have to upgrade to a moderate resort. I think maybe $50 - 70 more than a resort upgrade. Yet, for us and the way we like to travel, I think we got a lot more value from the dining upgrade and rental car compared to a resort upgrade.

Weather - I think it was considered "hot" that week, but compared to last June (and CP & Wigd can attest to this), it was wonderful! Last June was brutal. So brutal that I begged to stay in the AC the last day of the trip. September felt comfortable in comparison. Yeah - it was a little hot between 12 and 2pm, but the rest of the day was great. Sunny skies, minimal rain. Loved it. No complaints!

Crowds - Again, what a winner! The crowd level was perfect. Loved it. I would replicate it in a heartbeat. I think the crowds probably increased by thursday, which was the day before Food & Wine started, but prior to that - pure low crowd bliss. I hope to do future trips during this time frame. I would like to start during the end of free dining, before F&W, and then segway right into F&W. The other thing I noticed was that I DIDNT come across any grumpy visitors. Usually I come across one grumpster (usually a female) who rubs me the wrong way. But not this time!

Castmembers and Customer Service - I did not meet one grumpy CM this year. The service was exemplary. Everyone was friendly and, as you know, we felt like celebs with all our special anniversary treatment. I think they have won us over as fall anniversary customers for life.

Regrets, Do-overs - None!

up next....future plans!

[brookelizabeth]

All caught up again - wonderful way to wrap up the report! I like your idea of a "free dining Pop to DVC" trip.

Looking forward to your future plans! :yay:

[jenjolt]

First of all I love your pictures you are taking some very very good ones! One of these days I'm going to upgrade to one of those fancy cameras..until then mine is only about a year old so it is fine!!

Loved your final thoughts!! I think you have some very GREAT ideas!! I hope we can run into each other in the Fall!

[MEK]

Great final thoughts, Mary Ellen! I find myself planning out Disney trips for when I retire -- a nice, long Food and Wine trip is always at the top of the list. :rotfl:

OMG - I do the same thing. I have trips planned for when Brian goes to college and then when Nicholas goes. The great thing is there are so many variations on the WDW theme that I don't think I will ever get bored. I want to combine DVC trips with everything - Daytona Beach, back to Vero, Hilton Head, I really want to see Savannah Georgia, the west coast of florida. I could go on and on, but I won't! :laughing:

Gosh when you put it at $60 a day it doesn't sound like so much. Something to look forward to if we ever do an adult only trip!



It's definately worth it to upgrade to the DxDP. It just opens up so many dining possibilities. There were a couple OOP meals I wanted to do when we were planning with the basic, then I realized for only a few dollars more we would get so much more flexibility with the deluxe plan. It's definately the way to go with an adults only trip! (IMHO)

Wonderful final thoughts, Disney 3x4 times a year, I can't imagine how lovely that would be!



If I could go every 4 months I would be a very happy girl! :cloud9:


Nice thoughts on POP. I think both the values and the mods would be a heck of a lot easier to do with just 2 people instead of a larger group.



Definately. I think the values are great for an adults only trip. I have also stayed value when I have gone with just the kids. When the whole family goes we definately need more space. That's why DVC is so great for teenagers and for guests.

Just reading where you ate makes me hungry, are you doing the deluxe plan for the WL trip? I can't recall.



We thought about it, but thought the money would be better spent with an extra OOP meal and a few appetizers. Plus, we are strongly considering Cirque de Soliel. It's all cost shifting in my book. Plus I really wanted my friends to experience Ohana and Le Cellier. Plus I wanted to try Rose & Crown for Illuminations. Once you plug in those top tier (IMHO) TS then there isn't a lot of room for the signatures, especially if we go to Cirque one night. They haven't been to Disney in forever, so I thought it would be better to go the basic DP route with one extra TS character meal. I know they would love the signature places, but I really wanted to share the classics - so its The Wave, Le Cellier, TH breakfast, Yak & Yeti, Ohana, and Rose & Crown. I think that's a good sampling of all things yummy.

I hope your computer shapes up soon!

Ugghhhh! My computer needs to go back to Bob Johnson. I know he will fix it. And if he can't, I'll probably just buy another one from him. I would like a Dell or a Mac, but I just bought that camera. I need to watch the $ right now. I want to preplan for a nice computer purchase. Plus we need a new shared desk top. I rather put the money into that. Denny has a really nice laptop, so he will just have to share for awhile!

I totally agree that upgrading the food plan during free dining is the way to go! It's a great deal and allows you to try the signatures which you might not try otherwise!

Definately - if you are going to do the signatures you have to do the appetizers. What's the use of combining 2 TS when you still have to pay for appes - that's part of the meal. It is essential to the experience! I prefer it over dessert!

All caught up again - wonderful way to wrap up the report! I like your idea of a "free dining Pop to DVC" trip.

Looking forward to your future plans! :yay:

Welcome back! I have to head on over to your TR tonight before I end up on the 5th or 6th page! :rotfl:

I am definately looking forward to creative ways of combining DVC stays with free dining stays. I just always have to stay at POP first. I really don't think I could go in reverse.

First of all I love your pictures you are taking some very very good ones! One of these days I'm going to upgrade to one of those fancy cameras..until then mine is only about a year old so it is fine!!

Loved your final thoughts!! I think you have some very GREAT ideas!! I hope we can run into each other in the Fall!

OMG - thanks re: the pics. I feel like I have so much to learn, but I will eventually master it - I hope!

Glad you like the final thoughts and my creative trip planning ideas.

I really, really would love to meet you this fall. It seems that there is a bit of variety in people's dates. I think you, LL, and Christine are going around the same time - mid october. Paula is going at the end of September and Dawn is going at the beginning. I need a list of everyone's dates so I can stratgically plan.

[MEK]

I have one final thought - actually two....

1st..... I feel really blessed to have visited WDW 3 times in a calendar year. I visited last Dec 08, June 09, and again in Sept 09. I feel so fortunate that I live close enough to get reasonable flights and that DVC has afforded me some flexibility while still alllowing me to partake in the Disney promotions such as free dining. I have been fortunate enough to stay at POP, POFQ, CSR, SSR, and Kidani in the last calendar year. How great to be able to experience so many wonderful resorts - each with their own unique characteristics and strengths.

2nd .......I feel really lucky to have such a great group of Dis friends following my last three trip reports. I thank you all for reading!!!!! I will definately be following all your PTR/TRs and I promise to start a TR after my May trip!


Now for future plans.....

1st......I would like to put out a special request that everyone post your tentative or confirmed dates for Sept/Oct 2010. That means - Jen, LL, Paula, Ellen, Dawn, Patricia, Christine, Jackie, Tracy and anyone else is planning or thinking about planning a trip. I want to stratgically plan my dates. I would really like to take advantage of free dining again. I can't help it - I'm hooked.

As far as my May trip. I am still undecided about my exact arrival date. I am really leaning towards arriving April 30th in the evening. The only concern I have is that I will be out of the house for an entire week. That is a long time for teenage boys to have no mother around. They will be supervised, but its not the same. So, that's why I am not 100% sure. There are AP rates out for those nights and I have some AAA rebate certificates, so I'm sure my AAA agent could book me the AP rate and I could cover some of the cost with the certificates.

As far as the tournament over President's weekend - go figure - they scheduled it the weekend before - in Fayetteville, NC. I tried to justify how I could combine that with a trip (driving) to WDW, but I don't think I could ever drive all the way home from Orlando by myself. That's too much driving and I do not enjoy driving. I get very antsy after a couple hours. I think I could do the 8 hour drive from NC, but not the return drive.

I even considered heading over to Hilton Head for a few days. There are some remarkable AP rates for studios, but it just doesn't make sense. I think I just need to be happy with my May trip and stop thinking about squeezing in another trip. I should never have been tempted by the possibility of renting those January points (which, by the way, my friend was able to rent).

So that's the scoop - A May trip with undecided arrival date and a fall trip. I am really looking forward to meeting Katie and her friend and Tracy. I also hope I do get to meet Ellen and the Dismoms. That is a big reason why I want to arrive on Friday. I would love to run into them somewhere on Saturday (preferably a bar!).


OHHHHHHHHHHH........I just thought of one more thing. There is one more thing that has been bugging me since my return. That is the absence of Sunnie RN.......where the heck did she go???????? She was on the boards constantly before our September trips, then she just disappeared. If anyone has heard from her, please post. I would love to hear from her again. Her disappearance is a bit mysterious.

Well, that's it. Thanks for following along. I will check back for any comments!!!!!!!

[brookelizabeth]

Welcome back! I have to head on over to your TR tonight before I end up on the 5th or 6th page! :rotfl:

I am definately looking forward to creative ways of combining DVC stays with free dining stays. I just always have to stay at POP first. I really don't think I could go in reverse.


Oh, don't worry, I haven't even started my TR yet. Gotta get the pics organized and some "house stuff" done first. Perhaps Friday.

I don't think I could go in reverse either. This time we did Kidani to a hotel room in New Orleans and that was a bit hard. We were in a different place, so that helped, being in Disney and going in reverse wouldn't work for me! :laughing:

Your future trips sound just great! 2 trips planned....:cloud9: We currently have one, but tossing around some varying ideas. If any happen to land across your future dates, I will let you know. :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

I am VERY (embarrassingly so) behind but just saw your latest post and will respond to the immediate request and then hopefully go back and catch up over the next couple of days.

I will be in the World Oct 14-23. Would be AWESOME if you and Denny were there at the same time! :goodvibes

I'm so glad to have been able to meet you both in WDW no matter how briefly and I can't wait for the next time! :)

[dawnbu40]

I'm so sad to see your TR ending! But I'll be looking forward to the next!

Our trip is the first week of Sept but I believe you told me that wouldn't work with your boys schedules. Maybe someday we'll end up there the same time in May? :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

"If" we were to go again, and it is a HUGE "if" as in "probably not," but "if" we did go, it would be October 15 -- 18. I really don't think we will be able to swing it though -- I really need to divert some funds to new floors for the living room and kitchen. :(

[kschafer]

OK, I totally missed your last couple updates! Here's a few thoughts I can remember now that I am caught up:

I would love to take a MNSSHP/F&W trip someday. I don't know if it will ever happen but I will keep dreaming. I think this May trip will be my only off-season visit for any of the forseeable future.

Deluxe dining: I'm really struggling with wanting to switch to deluxe for the 5 day portion of our trip. With an extension of room-only, that would give us 5 1/2 days to use up the credits. I just don't know if I want to commit to that much time and am not sure I could actually eat that much but I might be up for the challenge. :rolleyes:

I think you know what my vote is on the early arrival in May :rolleyes1

[Diamondintheruff]

Love your top 5. Love that you spaced them out like to increase our suspense. Although I would have put money on the MNSSHP being #1. But I would have lost money because I did think your special viewing of the singers would have made it's own category. Good thing I'm not actually a betting gal.

I have done the deluxe plan before and agree that for an entire week it would be just too much. For a weekend it was manageable.

Thanks for sharing.

Good luck with the camera!

[Wicket's Mom]

I have a question, is May really a non busy time to go to WDW? September used to be, but was really crowded for us this time. After all of those years going for Spring Break, as God is my witness I will never do WDW that time of year again!:scared1:

May would be a good time to go if it was not crowded.

[MEK]

Oh, don't worry, I haven't even started my TR yet. Gotta get the pics organized and some "house stuff" done first. Perhaps Friday.



Oh phew....I am glad I am not that far behind, because I am always late to join in on the most popular TR's. I be on the look out this weekend!

I don't think I could go in reverse either. This time we did Kidani to a hotel room in New Orleans and that was a bit hard. We were in a different place, so that helped, being in Disney and going in reverse wouldn't work for me! :laughing:



I hear ya' - when I went from Kidani to CSR it was hard. I wanted my big bedroom with the kingsize bed back! I went into withdraw!


Your future trips sound just great! 2 trips planned....:cloud9: We currently have one, but tossing around some varying ideas. If any happen to land across your future dates, I will let you know. :goodvibes

Oh - wouldn't that be cool if we did end up there at the same time! I am excited to have two trips in the works. The Fall trip is the most up in the air. I am so looking forward to May!

I am VERY (embarrassingly so) behind but just saw your latest post and will respond to the immediate request and then hopefully go back and catch up over the next couple of days.



No worries! You have been a busy girl! I am enjoying reading about your adventures in December.

.

I will be in the World Oct 14-23. Would be AWESOME if you and Denny were there at the same time! :goodvibes



I think your dates are about the same as Jen's and LL's. That really would be a nice time to visit, but it falls right in the thick of soccer season. Still, it is a possibility for a short trip. I am just so unsure what would work out best for me on all acounts. If I had a few more DVC points then that time frame would be more doable.


I'm so glad to have been able to meet you both in WDW no matter how briefly and I can't wait for the next time! :)

Same. It was really one of the highlights of the trip because it was so fun to be a real face to a "cyber" friend!

I'm so sad to see your TR ending! But I'll be looking forward to the next!

Our trip is the first week of Sept but I believe you told me that wouldn't work with your boys schedules. Maybe someday we'll end up there the same time in May? :goodvibes

And I was sad to see yours end, but I am happy you have a PTR going.

I remembered that you were the first week of September. For right now its too close to the start of school, but in the future I would love to try that week because I bet it boasts some of the smallest crowds. I used to love to travel right after Labor Day because the weather is great and the summer crowds are history.

"If" we were to go again, and it is a HUGE "if" as in "probably not," but "if" we did go, it would be October 15 -- 18. I really don't think we will be able to swing it though -- I really need to divert some funds to new floors for the living room and kitchen. :(

I hear ya - that's why I haven't gotten more DVC points. I need a kitchen remodel. BAD! REALLY BAD!

But I will keep your dates in mind because it would be so fun to meet you!

OK, I totally missed your last couple updates! Here's a few thoughts I can remember now that I am caught up:

I would love to take a MNSSHP/F&W trip someday. I don't know if it will ever happen but I will keep dreaming. I think this May trip will be my only off-season visit for any of the forseeable future.



Oh .....it will happen, even if you have to wait awhile for it.

Deluxe dining: I'm really struggling with wanting to switch to deluxe for the 5 day portion of our trip. With an extension of room-only, that would give us 5 1/2 days to use up the credits. I just don't know if I want to commit to that much time and am not sure I could actually eat that much but I might be up for the challenge. :rolleyes:



It's a hard decision. I jus think you need to do the math. If you have some OOP meals planned and adding the dining plan is just a bit more, I say go for it. That especially holds true if you have some signatures you want to do. I forget what your ADRs look like. I know you have some good meals lined up. Just work the numbers with your ideal ADRs. I definately did not regret it, but then again I was going during free dining.


I think you know what my vote is on the early arrival in May :rolleyes1

LOL! I'm leaning towards it. I will let you know!

OK - be back in a few.

[Lady Lallie]

"If" we were to go again, and it is a HUGE "if" as in "probably not," but "if" we did go, it would be October 15 -- 18. I really don't think we will be able to swing it though -- I really need to divert some funds to new floors for the living room and kitchen. :(

I am much more important than new floors...just so you know. ;)

MEK, I'm there October 14 -20th.

[eandesmom]

Sadly I have no trips planned for F&W much as I'd love to! Given that we will be there in August there is no way I'll be able to swing it in 2010. '11 maybe!

I haven't seen Sunnie either, she had a PTR for her trip and doesn't appear to have been back since that trip started? I haven't actually checked but haven't seen her since then. Which was at least a few months ago. :sad1: I hope she is ok.

[DWGal210]

Hi there!!

Sorry your TR is coming to a close, but it was a great one!! I really enjoyed reading it and getting to know you!

As far as future trips....I would REALLY LOVE to go this fall, but we'll see. It would have to be a solo trip, as all my close friends are married and having babies, and no one has the time or $$ to go with me. :upsidedow My goddaughter and I were thinking about taking a trip this fall, but her mom is taking her and her 3 year old brother, just the three of them, in September/October, so we'll have to do that trip another time. I would LOVE to rent some DVC points from my aunt and uncle and stay at Beach Club....but I would also LOVE to get free dining and see how that all works, so we'll see.

I'll keep you posted!!

[manntra]

I can't wait to meet you either ME! I am there on May 1 but as of right now I am homeless for that night. Ideally I would like to be somewhere with decent access to DTD and just go there for awhile....even looked at points for SSR or OKW for a studio for the night but for a Saturday it is not very point friendly. Or an AP rate...I don't know....I know that some have stayed at a hotel near the airport for their early arrival nights so I will keep looking into it.
Now...you really need to get yourself a FB account!!! ...especially since your TR is winding down...a lot of us are on there and it is a great way to keep in touch :goodvibes
I'm not sure about another trip this year....I would love to do another F&W...I think that is such a perfect time of year to go..the weather was great, the crowds were low, and all of that extra food at Epcot! :woohoo: If anything comes up I will be sure to let you know...:goodvibes
Oh and I finally asked my friend Sue that is going with me if she likes rides....rollercoasters etc....:confused: Phew! She does! She hasn't been in quite a few years and so hasn't been on TOT (muhahhahaha) or EE...I don't think she has even been to AK...I told her about the drink before EE at night and she said sure! :laughing:

Tracy

[MEK]

Love your top 5. Love that you spaced them out like to increase our suspense. Although I would have put money on the MNSSHP being #1. But I would have lost money because I did think your special viewing of the singers would have made it's own category. Good thing I'm not actually a betting gal.



:rotfl: You know - if I had seen the entire singing performance I just may have picked that as mumber one, especially as much as I love those guys. But, I only caught the tail end of the performance. That always happens - I need to get there earlier.

I have done the deluxe plan before and agree that for an entire week it would be just too much. For a weekend it was manageable.

Thanks for sharing.

Good luck with the camera!

I definately don't think I could do it for a week unless I did signatures every night. And even then - ouch! - that's a lot of food, even for me!

I have a question, is May really a non busy time to go to WDW? September used to be, but was really crowded for us this time. After all of those years going for Spring Break, as God is my witness I will never do WDW that time of year again!:scared1:

May would be a good time to go if it was not crowded.

I have never been in May, but I've heard the beginning of May is a pretty good time to go. I think Dawnbu went last year in early May and she rode TSM about 5 times one day. She was on and off rides like the eveready bunny! I really wanted to go in May cause (1) low points (2) my use is is March so new points to use (3) my birthday (4) flower & garden festival.

Sorry your Sept dates were crowded. When were you there?

I am much more important than new floors...just so you know. ;)

MEK, I'm there October 14 -20th.

that's so cute! :rotfl2: Are you more important than a new kitchen, too????

I thought those were your dates. I would have to get some great rate to do then or just borrow more DVC points. Or, perhaps just buy more DVC points! :scared1:Still - its a possibility.

Sadly I have no trips planned for F&W much as I'd love to! Given that we will be there in August there is no way I'll be able to swing it in 2010. '11 maybe!



2011 - Thata' girl - always planning! I like that. We'll with that in mind, then there is always a chance that we might meet! :thumbsup2 I'm keeping fall an annual thing!

I haven't seen Sunnie either, she had a PTR for her trip and doesn't appear to have been back since that trip started? I haven't actually checked but haven't seen her since then. Which was at least a few months ago. :sad1: I hope she is ok.

I know we talked about this before, but I figured I'd put one more shout out for her. I hope she is OK, too. I hope she just decided that Dis'ing was for addicted people and she is leading a lovely normal life with her daughter and grandkids.

Hi there!!

Sorry your TR is coming to a close, but it was a great one!! I really enjoyed reading it and getting to know you!



Thanks! I'm so glad you were here to follow along!!!!!

Hi there!!

As far as future trips....I would REALLY LOVE to go this fall, but we'll see. It would have to be a solo trip, as all my close friends are married and having babies, and no one has the time or $$ to go with me. :upsidedow My goddaughter and I were thinking about taking a trip this fall, but her mom is taking her and her 3 year old brother, just the three of them, in September/October, so we'll have to do that trip another time. I would LOVE to rent some DVC points from my aunt and uncle and stay at Beach Club....but I would also LOVE to get free dining and see how that all works, so we'll see.

I'll keep you posted!!

Sounds like you have lots of options for the fall. So, You've never tried free dining? I am hooked. I have done it every year but one. That was 2008 after we joined DVC. It really is a fabulous deal, especially if you can go in September. Such a great marketing ploy. People love free things - especially food.

It is hard when all your friends have babies. It makes it hard to find a traveling partner, but all Disers are resourceful enough to find somebody when they really want to go. :rotfl:

Beach club points from your aunt & uncle - how great would that be? :thumbsup2



I can't wait to meet you either ME! I am there on May 1 but as of right now I am homeless for that night. Ideally I would like to be somewhere with decent access to DTD and just go there for awhile....even looked at points for SSR or OKW for a studio for the night but for a Saturday it is not very point friendly. Or an AP rate...I don't know....I know that some have stayed at a hotel near the airport for their early arrival nights so I will keep looking into it.


Yeah - its going to be a great trip!

If I go early I am definately going to stay on site at one of the values. I really don't care which one. Sat night is definately NOT point friendly, although it would be nice to stay near DTD. You still have plenty of time to decide what to do. No hurry!

INow...you really need to get yourself a FB account!!! ...especially since your TR is winding down...a lot of us are on there and it is a great way to keep in touch :goodvibes


OK - you're swaying me a bit. I will definately consider it. Oh - by the way - I got my second lense for my camera today. WOW! Love it. I will be zooming in on all types of things now!

II'm not sure about another trip this year....I would love to do another F&W...I think that is such a perfect time of year to go..the weather was great, the crowds were low, and all of that extra food at Epcot! :woohoo: If anything comes up I will be sure to let you know...:goodvibes


Definately let me know if you are going back in October. It is such a great time of year. Love it!


Oh and I finally asked my friend Sue that is going with me if she likes rides....rollercoasters etc....:confused: Phew! She does! She hasn't been in quite a few years and so hasn't been on TOT (muhahhahaha) or EE...I don't think she has even been to AK...I told her about the drink before EE at night and she said sure! :laughing:


:rotfl2:muhahaha. That's great that she likes rides and is up for our EE meet! I know that my friend Cathy does not like rides, but she is cool with other people riding. She is so nice and laid back. She'll be like - "sure, whatever". I know she likes to drink, so she can hold down the bar for us while we're gone! :laughing: oops.....I mean.....:rotfl:

[eandesmom]

I will second the FB endorsement!

Fall '11 is definitely a possibility, several of my siblings are discussing and adult only trip for F&W!

[Normangirls]

The coolest thing happened to me yesterday -- I discovered your TR, and have read my way right through it!

:surfweb:

I especially enjoyed your pictures, MEK. Thanks for the awesome report!

[MEK]

I will second the FB endorsement!

Fall '11 is definitely a possibility, several of my siblings are discussing and adult only trip for F&W!

Ohhhhhhh. Adults Only in Fall '11! You will definately have to keep me posted on that! :thumbsup2 I am definately up for Fall '11 and fall '12 and fall..........:rolleyes1

The coolest thing happened to me yesterday -- I discovered your TR, and have read my way right through it!

:surfweb:

I especially enjoyed your pictures, MEK. Thanks for the awesome report!

Hey Normangirls...... Welcome! :woohoo: and what a great comment! That really made me smile! :flower3: I'm so glad you enjoyed my TR and thanks for the compliment on the pictures!

[manntra]

Did you get the "nifty fifty" lens? I think that is what everyone calls it?!:confused3:lmao: Just don't zoom in on me when you are taking pictures!!! :scared1:
Yeah Sue is really easy going too...she is a whatever kind of woman too and just goes with the flow....hey she entrusted me with all of the ADR's and planning!!!
Okay I just made the type on my Mac really small now so I have to figure out how to fix it! :rotfl2:
Tracy

[HockeyMomR]

Hi MEK!

Haven taken several months break from the boards, I totally missed your TR. Looking forward to going back and reading now that life has settled down here.

Happy New Year!

[podsnel]

Hey ME!! :goodvibes I wanted to chime in with my fall dates- Pods & i are staying at AKV concierge Sept 24th to Sept 29th. When I booked this, that was supposed to be the start of F&W. But as you know (or may not know) F&W starts Oct 1st now. :headache: So I am trying to figure out what to do....part of me wants to bump the trip so that we arrive a little later and leave a little later....but not so easy to get concierge for the whole time, so we would have to move, and after this last 3-in-6 trip, I REALLY don't want to move, but we could move to BC.....I'm so confused!!! I will be back in October with T&T&P for 2 nights before the cruise, so there's F&W noshing possible then (without Sean things can go at a more leisurely, what do you want to do now, kind of pace)...but I hate to give up 5 nights in concierge!!
Without F&W, we would do DxDDP, which we have never done before. I guess I'd better make some decisions soon....

I also vote for you coming early in May (or on April 30th)....and I had no idea there would be SO MANY of us women on adults only trips then!! We really need to all meet! The Dismoms plans are-

April 30th- dinner at Tokyo Dining, followed by Epcot EMH-aka, drinking around the world!

May 1st-dinner at Raglan Road, but we're going to Fulton's first, sitting at the bar and ordering some apps to nosh on so RR may not be full-on dinner, followed by more of the same aroung DTD.

May 2nd- breakfast at BOMA, dinner at Narcoosees, followed by EMH at MK and a monorail pub crawl, including a pit stop at WL for the gran Marnier flight Cammie & I missed last time...

May 3rd- Sanaa for dinner (for most of us) then we're all going to meet up at Jellyrolls at night.

I also need to get to Kona for breakfast one morning- I don't think I can ever visit WDW again without macadamia nut pancakes!!! :rotfl:

And go on FB!!!! It's a great way to stay in touch!! :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Mary Ellen,

I've been gone a while so I'm scrambling to catch up.... sorry this is ending "so soon!"

Enjoying all your pix, as usual!

I'm longing for another Mom-and-Dad-only trip now....


Kathy

[praisehisname]

What a great ending to your report! The MNSSHP really does look like a lot of fun!

Looking forward to another MEK report!

[MEK]

Did you get the "nifty fifty" lens? I think that is what everyone calls it?!:confused3:lmao: Just don't zoom in on me when you are taking pictures!!! :scared1:


I did - but I didn't know that's what it is called. Denny indulged me yesterday and drove me down some dirt roads along the C&D canal and then we went to historic New Castle and took pictures. I haven't downloaded them yet, so I am curious to see how they turned out.

Not to worry, I promise not to zoom in on you, just other unsuspecting people.

Yeah Sue is really easy going too...she is a whatever kind of woman too and just goes with the flow....hey she entrusted me with all of the ADR's and planning!!!


That's great. She sounds like the perfect touring companion!

me with all of the ADR's and planning!!!
Okay I just made the type on my Mac really small now so I have to figure out how to fix it! :rotfl2:




Do you love the mac? Dumb question, I know! :rotfl:

Hi MEK!

Haven taken several months break from the boards, I totally missed your TR. Looking forward to going back and reading now that life has settled down here.

Happy New Year!

Hi HockeyMomR:

How have you been???? and Welcome to the end of my TR. I hope you enjoy reading it. I never did put the chapter links in, so I hope its not too cumbersome to read!

Hey ME!! :goodvibes I wanted to chime in with my fall dates- Pods & i are staying at AKV concierge Sept 24th to Sept 29th. When I booked this, that was supposed to be the start of F&W. But as you know (or may not know) F&W starts Oct 1st now. :headache: So I am trying to figure out what to do....part of me wants to bump the trip so that we arrive a little later and leave a little later....but not so easy to get concierge for the whole time, so we would have to move, and after this last 3-in-6 trip, I REALLY don't want to move, but we could move to BC.....I'm so confused!!! I will be back in October with T&T&P for 2 nights before the cruise, so there's F&W noshing possible then (without Sean things can go at a more leisurely, what do you want to do now, kind of pace)...but I hate to give up 5 nights in concierge!!
Without F&W, we would do DxDDP, which we have never done before. I guess I'd better make some decisions soon....



I can certainly understand why you wouldn't want to give up 5 nights of concierge. That is so great. I like your dates and I am a bit disappointed that F&W does not start until 10/1/10. I was sort of leaning until the end of September myself. It's just a good time for me to skip away. The boys are in the school rountine, soccer doesn't start getting really intense with the harders games until mid October, so its a good time for me to go.

I guess you will have to decide soon. If you do decide to do the DxDP, you will love it. Between that and concierge you will definately never go hungry!

I also vote for you coming early in May (or on April 30th)....and I had no idea there would be SO MANY of us women on adults only trips then!! We really need to all meet! The Dismoms plans are-

April 30th- dinner at Tokyo Dining, followed by Epcot EMH-aka, drinking around the world!

May 1st-dinner at Raglan Road, but we're going to Fulton's first, sitting at the bar and ordering some apps to nosh on so RR may not be full-on dinner, followed by more of the same aroung DTD.

May 2nd- breakfast at BOMA, dinner at Narcoosees, followed by EMH at MK and a monorail pub crawl, including a pit stop at WL for the gran Marnier flight Cammie & I missed last time...

May 3rd- Sanaa for dinner (for most of us) then we're all going to meet up at Jellyrolls at night.


I also need to get to Kona for breakfast one morning- I don't think I can ever visit WDW again without macadamia nut pancakes!!! :rotfl:

And go on FB!!!! It's a great way to stay in touch!! :thumbsup2


Your plans sound great! So much fun! If I arrive on the 30th I know it won't be until late because I would take an evening flight. But May 1st drinks at Fultons is definately a possibility if I do arrive early. If I arrive with the rest of my group on Sunday it still looks like we might be able to meet you along the crawl, at the WL, or at MK EMH. gran Marnier flight - yum! And of course, we may head to Jelly Roll after illuminations, so that's another possibility.

anyway - great itinerary.

And FB - I am working my way there. One of my coworkers hated it and I guess that has me worried. But, its good to try new things!

Mary Ellen,

I've been gone a while so I'm scrambling to catch up.... sorry this is ending "so soon!"

Enjoying all your pix, as usual!

I'm longing for another Mom-and-Dad-only trip now....


Kathy

Hi Kathy -

I know you have been pretty busy, so no worries. I am just happy that you are back to writing your TR - so fun!

Mom and dad trip - definately recommended! :thumbsup2

What a great ending to your report! The MNSSHP really does look like a lot of fun!

Looking forward to another MEK report!

Thanks Denise. MNSSHP was a ton of fun. And before you know it I will be writing that May TR. I figure it will probably take me all summer to write it, so I'll have something to do while I'm wishing I was still at Disney!

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey ME...we are tentatatively going from Oct. 6- Oct. 11...

but with some of the family drama going on...that could change...not the trip but maybe the dates...

(it seems like lots of Disers are going that following week...)

we might wind up with DVC now...and then we'll have points for 2011...thinking about December...:rolleyes1

[MEK]

Hey ME...we are tentatatively going from Oct. 6- Oct. 11...

but with some of the family drama going on...that could change...not the trip but maybe the dates...

(it seems like lots of Disers are going that following week...)



Nice dates - early October. I would love that. I hope the drama settles out for you soon. I know a lot of Diser's are arriving the next week, which is a little later than I wanted to go. Decisions....Decisions......:confused3


we might wind up with DVC now...and then we'll have points for 2011...thinking about December...:rolleyes1

Big, Big thumbs up :thumbsup2 to DVC. You will NOT regret it!

[HockeyMomR]

MEK - just finished the report.....loved it!

Ahhh, to be at Disney just the two of you, would love to do this w/ DH one of these days! Those peacefull meals, just the two of you making decisions what to ride next, ahhh.

Just a quick response, gotta take DS14 to hockey practice, he actually plays at a rink in Columbia, MD. See I did read your report, your were only about 20 minutes away when you went to soccer tournament with your son.

Also, wondering what your "shortcut" was to Rt. 50 on the way home from BWI....

Thanks again for a great read! & congrats to your son's soccer team. Although, my sons no longer play soccer their high school also won the Baltimore area MIAA soccer championship, they really enjoyed the games.

Look forward to reading your Pre trip for May? WL is beautiful, although, I have a real affiliation for BC. Hope you get to stay there one day.

[MEK]

MEK - just finished the report.....loved it!

Ahhh, to be at Disney just the two of you, would love to do this w/ DH one of these days! Those peacefull meals, just the two of you making decisions what to ride next, ahhh.



Hey HockeyMomR....

Thanks for reading my TR. Glad you enjoyed it. Disney was really wonderful as an adults only trip. I hope you do get a chance to do it someday. Plus my DH is great to travel with because he does whatever I want. :rolleyes1


Just a quick response, gotta take DS14 to hockey practice, he actually plays at a rink in Columbia, MD. See I did read your report, your were only about 20 minutes away when you went to soccer tournament with your son.

Also, wondering what your "shortcut" was to Rt. 50 on the way home from BWI....



I love Columbia, Md. I think it is such a great location.

As far as the shortcut to BWI - I have no idea where that GPS took us, but it definately shaved off some time. That's the crazy thing about a GPS. If I don't have a complete map of the area, I have no idea where I am going.


Thanks again for a great read! & congrats to your son's soccer team. Although, my sons no longer play soccer their high school also won the Baltimore area MIAA soccer championship, they really enjoyed the games.



Thanks! It was really fun watching them go all the way to the end.

Speaking of soccer....they finally have their soccer banquet next Friday night ( a little late), so it will be fun to relive some of the memories and see the pictures!

Look forward to reading your Pre trip for May? WL is beautiful, although, I have a real affiliation for BC. Hope you get to stay there one day.

I probably won't do a pre-trippie. If I do, it will be AFTER I have the final plans decided. Some people get more into their PTRs then their post TRs. I am just the opposite.

Anyway - thanks again for reading along!!!!!!

[MEK]

HAHA! My 4000th post was my own TR. How cool is that? How long will it take me to get to 5000? Only 999 to go!

[dawnbu40]

HAHA! My 4000th post was my own TR. How cool is that? How long will it take me to get to 5000? Only 999 to go!

WOW! 4000?! that makes you an official Dis-addict :cool1:

[MEK]

WOW! 4000?! that makes you an official Dis-addict :cool1:

Why yes Dawn, as a matter of fact, I think it does! :rotfl2: But I still have about 10,000 more posts until I catch up to LL and CP. How DO they do it?

[Charleston Princess]

Why yes Dawn, as a matter of fact, I think it does! :rotfl2: But I still have about 10,000 more posts until I catch up to LL and CP. How DO they do it?

I have no life. :lmao:

[MEK]

I have no life. :lmao:

:rotfl2:Stop! So not true. You just have fast fingers!!!!!!!!!

[Charleston Princess]

:rotfl2:Stop! So not true. You just have fast fingers!!!!!!!!!

Okay, we can go with that one, but I still think it is because I have nothing better to do. :rotfl:;)

[wsushocker]

:rotfl2:Stop! So not true. You just have fast fingers!!!!!!!!!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/fastfingersRS223x184.jpg

[MEK]

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/fastfingersRS223x184.jpg


Nice! Very Nice! Now if only we could all learn how to move our fingers that fast when it came to getting housework done! :rotfl:

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Hey Mary Ellen!!! I have been back for over a month and have not had the time to get on here at all! I missed the whole end of your TR...but I just read through the whole thing and it looks like you ended your trip perfectly! Your pix are great! You will have a great time with that new camera on your next trip! I actually think I am going to head back down with my little guy for a long weekend for Star Wars weekends. His birthday ios June 7th so we could be there for his birthday, too! I just have to finish convincing the hubby and other two kids that they don't need to accompany us!! LOL My only issue is...after staying at AKL...don't know if I can bring myself to stay at POP??!! We have stayed there before and really liked it...until we got to sit on our balcony and watch animals eating on the savanna!!!

[faerieprincess]

Great end to your TR Mary Ellen. Congrats on the new camera - i hope you have LOADS of fun taking all kinds of new pictures. You'll really know your way around the camera by the time your May trip rolls around :goodvibes

i enjoyed your final thoughts, as always - thanks for bringing us on your trip with you! :goodvibes

[MEK]

Hey Mary Ellen!!! I have been back for over a month and have not had the time to get on here at all! I missed the whole end of your TR...but I just read through the whole thing and it looks like you ended your trip perfectly! Your pix are great! You will have a great time with that new camera on your next trip!

Erin.....HI!

So funny that we were reading each other's TR. I'm glad you told me, because I didn't expect anymore visitors over here. Glad you like the pix and I AM super excited about the new camera.

I actually think I am going to head back down with my little guy for a long weekend for Star Wars weekends. His birthday ios June 7th so we could be there for his birthday, too! I just have to finish convincing the hubby and other two kids that they don't need to accompany us!! LOL My only issue is...after staying at AKL...don't know if I can bring myself to stay at POP??!! We have stayed there before and really liked it...until we got to sit on our balcony and watch animals eating on the savanna!!!

:thumbsup2 for a mother-son trip in June. I think that's a wonderful idea. It will be a tad crowded, but with early mornings you will do fine.

I hear ya about staying at POP after Kidani. I was little worried about that myself, but POP was fine. I had more trouble moving to CSR right from Kidani then I did going to POP 3 months later. The other thing is, kids LOVE POP. Your son will think its great. Just get yourself a room facing away from the pool and it will feel relaxed. Good luck planning.

Great end to your TR Mary Ellen. Congrats on the new camera - i hope you have LOADS of fun taking all kinds of new pictures. You'll really know your way around the camera by the time your May trip rolls around :goodvibes

i enjoyed your final thoughts, as always - thanks for bringing us on your trip with you! :goodvibes

Hi faerieprincess - Thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed the finale! I am enjoying my new camera. I have been out and about taking pictures. I just have to keep practicing and its hard in the winter weather. I can't wait for spring! :flower3:

[mickeysmyboy]

Still trying to catch up on everyone since we got back! You'd think I'd be caught up after a week, but no!

What a great trip you had!!!! It sound like you really had a great time! Thank you so much for sharing it with us!!

So, I read in one of the responses that you got a new camera!!! Did I read that right?! I looked for where you said it but I can't find it!! What did you get?! I'm dying to know! There may have been a new camera purchased a few days before our trip ;)

BTW, my new TR is up and running! The link is in my siggie if you want to come on over and join the fun!