Kidani, HRH & BLT in 6 nights- Yes! We are THAT crazy!! Nov 4-10,09 OBX updates 4/13

[podsnel]

Well, here I am again, with another tale of what we did and how we did it. I'm Ellen, official Disney nutcase assigned to planning all vacations for my dear family. Of course it is my pleasure to plan these trips, and I feel very, very fortunate after having planned this one- because on THIS trip, we were ALL going to WDW for the first time in 2 years. Hopefully. There was no issue with myself, or my DH (Pods), or with our 2 younger sons, DS12 (Tyler) and DS10 (Timmy). We are all very happy to go, go, GO! wherever and whenever we can. The issue was with DS15 (Sean). Sean is a beautiful, intelligent, sweet young man who happens to be autistic, too. And his autism very often gets in the way of fun things like....going to summer camp (when he screamed for an hour and wouldn't get out of the car) or going to Florida to visit his Grandma & cousins (which he let us know when he wouldn't get out of the car at the airport). Fun, fun stuff. :rolleyes: I guess Sean had decided he would prefer to sleep in his bed- ONLY. Makes it a little tough to go anywhere that way. But, I was DETERMINED he was going to WDW in November 2009. Because we have been going to WDW every other year for most of his life. And WDW, well, he loves it there. And the CMs are SO KIND, the characters SO WONDERFUL to him... it is a TRULY magical experience for us all, and I was NOT going to give it up!! :thumbsup2 So, I dug my heels in, and over the course of a year, we were successful in getting him de-sensitized to hotel stays (by taking him on overnights to various Embassy Suites in NJ). All that was left would be getting him on de plane! Well, how about getting him into the airport even? Off the plane? Onto the DME? Into the hotels? Into the parks? Out to dinner? Oh boy, this is a little more challenging than it sounds. A 15 year old throwing a tantrum like a two year old is NOT ever a good thing and really needs to be avoided as much as possible. Soooo....

What I did was make a book for him. It's about 40 pages in length. And it details EVERYTHING we would be doing over the course of our trip to WDW. Along with photos. Photos of EVERYTHING...Newark airport. The Continental plane. The monorail at the Orlando airport. DME. ALL the DVC villa rooms (including photos of the pull-out chairs, thanks to some very kind DIS friends! :hug:) and the HRH room. Even the shower stalls. Every park and every ride we know he loves. Even every restaurant we had ADRs for. And we read this book together everyday, several times, for a month before D-Day- November 4th. And everyday, about 100 times a day, I asked him, "Where are we going on November 4th?" to which he would reply, "Walt Disney World". "How do we get to WDW?" "On the airplane." Until, it was finally November 4th, and we were waking him up to get into our van and go to the airport. But would Sean do it? Would he be able to conquer all of his inexplainable fears? Would we FINALLY be going on a family vacation with our whole family, or would he be escorted home from Newark Airport at the final moment by our friend Ann who was kind enough to wake up so early and ride along in our van with us just in case? Would he be spending the week with my cousins Sheree & Henry again (the saints who watch him for us when we do go away without him)? Stay tuned to find out!! :goodvibes

As a side note, on my last TR, I was able to finally figure out how to post links to individual posts, so I'll be doing that HERE-

And....we're OFF! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34774095&postcount=9

C'mon Sean...you can do it!! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34778636&postcount=16

Happy New Year Everyone! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34824179&postcount=29

It's time for club Cool! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34825064&postcount=31

A night in Germany- dinner at Biergarten http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34843290&postcount=37

The Yankees win the World Series! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34855657&postcount=44

Some old Scrapbook pages http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34864259&postcount=49

EE in the FRONT row! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34867151&postcount=51

Flying lessons at Sanaa http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34882755&postcount=56

Hangin at Kidani http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34883209&postcount=58

A Room with a view http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34932681&postcount=68

Finally! MK then Jambo for BOMA http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34933835&postcount=79

Goodbye Kidani, Hello DTD http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34963658&postcount=86

A Great day with my son in DTD http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34965278&postcount=90

Osprey Ridge Golf http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34967057&postcount=92

We're walkin' right down the middle of Main St, USA http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34990112&postcount=103

More MK with my Sean http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34990837&postcount=104

Uh-Oh at HRH http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35004122&postcount=119

Never Underestimate the power of a DVC 1 bdrm villa http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35004152&postcount=120

The Simpsons Ride ROCKS! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35021188&postcount=137

Give a Day, Get a Day (off topic- OOPS!) http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35067891&postcount=157

Lunch at the beachclub- with Squirrel, but not Moose! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35068333&postcount=160

Twistin' by the Pool... http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35083113&postcount=172

Visiting Aunt Irma http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35083895&postcount=175

Rip Ride Rockit- is it worth it? http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35085167&postcount=176

Another Blast from the past- U & IOA 2005 http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35097958&postcount=184

Off to Mythos for lunch! http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35098903&postcount=185

A visit with Irma, circa 2003 http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35113825&postcount=197

SPLASHDOWN! At IOA http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35302384&postcount=209

A Little Hoops before we go http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35304596&postcount=211

Back to the Mothership-Checking into BLT http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35326979&postcount=218

Chef Mickey's...for the last time http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35360916&postcount=227

My name is Ellen, and I am fireworks challenged http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35362140&postcount=234

TOWL, baby! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35366275&postcount=239

Yum Yum- Kona Cafe for breakfast! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35389751&postcount=248

Sidetrack-Skiing & Chinese New Year http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35467682&postcount=287

Buzz Cuts & Tea Cups http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35469160&postcount=288

More MK http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35469807&postcount=290

Sum of All Thrills with Satan's Spawn http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35484343&postcount=299

The Ooh La La Part http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35485632&postcount=300

DHS http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35605144&postcount=313

It's a SNOWICANE!! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35609821&postcount=321

Timmy takes on Rockin Rollercoaster! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35770132&postcount=336

50's PT http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35835676&postcount=341

BLT pool at night with my Shawnee http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35892440&postcount=354

TOWL & UH-OH.... http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35990407&postcount=357

Here in OBX http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36043354&postcount=363

The sun is shining! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36046875&postcount=365

DVC & CR Management ROCK! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36117987&postcount=379

Update from OBX last week http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36118203&postcount=380

Timmy gets in one last Thrill ride http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36166303&postcount=389

OBX Ring in the Spring! http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36235641&postcount=390

OBX http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36236914&postcount=391

OBX http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36237774&postcount=392

OBX http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36240875&postcount=396

[praisehisname]

I'm here and can't wait to hear all about it!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

I'm here and I'm ready! :thumbsup2

[WannaBeADisMom]

I'm here and can't wait to read more!!!:yay:

[CRdisMom]

Can't wait to hear all the details. I have a new love for social stories. Hope Christmas was good.

[podsnel]

I'm here and can't wait to hear all about it!

Hi Denise! Thanks for being first! :goodvibes

I'm here and I'm ready! :thumbsup2

Hey Nikki! How was your Christmas? Enjoying the vacation? Thanks for coming along! :thumbsup2

I'm here and can't wait to read more!!!:yay:

Joan! How was Christmas? I haven't talked to you in two whole days, I'm going through withdrawals!! :rotfl: Did Peter like his keggerator? Pods says his works just fine- at least it did all Christmas day! :rotfl: I think I see some Pilsner glasses in his future...

[podsnel]

Can't wait to hear all the details. I have a new love for social stories. Hope Christmas was good.

Hi Laura! Yes, christmas was good- how was yours? And the social stories can really help Sean- along with using the calendar to make sure he's prepared. It's working for you guys,too? :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: So HAPPY!!!!

[MEK]

:woohoo: I am pretty darn excited to see that this TR has started! popcorn::

And for Sean :flower3: I hope it was a great trip for him!

[podsnel]

Well, we pulled up to the airport drop-off, and Sean wouldn't get out of the car. :sad2: He slammed the door shut. And Pods got out to get the luggage from the trunk, and I got out and tried with Sean one more time...

"Shawnee, please get out of the car. It's time to go to WDW. Let's GO!"

And when Pods looked up from the luggage....

Sean was standing next to me on the curb. :yay: :yay: :dance3: :dance3:
He had opened the door on his own, and hopped right out! We were so proud of our son. He was doing it!!!!! And not too long after that, he was doin' THIS-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0001.jpg

And he was an absolute angel on the flight- we were in heaven! Soon we were on line for the DME-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0085.jpg

And finally, finally, FINALLY, we were checking in at Kidani- I think it was about 12:30. And our 1 BDRM SV was READY!!!! So, of course, up we went to the third floor to check out our room very quickly while we dropped off our luggage- we were running late for an ADR at the Crystal Palace, our traditional 1st meal at WDW. Luckily, we were in one of the first villas off the elevator- our location was PERFECT!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0087.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0088.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0089.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0091.jpg

We went out to catch the MK bus.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0092.jpg

Except, there wasn't one. For a looooooonnng time. :sad2: I think we must have missed the last one when we were briefly up in the room. And we watched multiple buses go by for other parks...but none for MK. And the troops were hungry. And Sean will only eat french fries (and pb&j on certain kinds of bread) for lunch, so Sanaa was out. And we were waaaaayyy past our ADR at this point, sadly. So we chose to hop a bus over to the Mara, and had a nice lunch there.

Tyler was excited to grab these babies for his dessert- he loves zebra domes!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0093.jpg

Pods & I shared some flatbreads. This one was veggie with olives & pesto-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0094.jpg

This one was chicken, corn & mozzerella
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0095.jpg

Tyler had a burger-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0096.jpg

Timmy had chicken nuggets, adult size-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0097.jpg

Sean had a couple of orders of fries, as well as most of his brothers'! This is probably the biggest reason for us not to do the DDP- very hard to eat $40 in french fries a day, even for Sean!

The Mara is a very pretty counter service restaurant, I had really never noticed before, and this was my 3rd time staying at AKV. The ceiling is beautiful.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0098.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0100.jpg

Well, we were soon again waiting for a bus to MK....and we just couldn't hit one. So we made an executive decision, and chose to get on the EPCOT bus instead.

But would it all work out? Remember, Sean was counting on the day to go a certain way, and, for the past hour or so, we were striking out! :scared1: You'll have to wait and see...in the next post.

[praisehisname]

Woo Hoo! The whole family will be together! :yay:

[jeminni]

I'm in. Your family is beautiful. :goodvibes

[praisehisname]

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0094.jpg

Bummer about missing your ADR at CP, but that flatbread looks delicious!


The Mara is a very pretty counter service restaurant, I had really never noticed before, and this was my 3rd time staying at AKV. The ceiling is beautiful.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0098.jpg

Gorgeous!

[areck]

Hello!
I'm new to the Disboards when it comes to replying. I have been reading/lurking for years. I will not let another PODSNEL report go by without saying how much I enjoy your attention to detail and the fun you have wherever you go. Your photos tell a story on their own. Your stories exude love and laughter. I'm on board for another adventure!:thumbsup2

[podsnel]

:woohoo: I am pretty darn excited to see that this TR has started! popcorn::

And for Sean :flower3: I hope it was a great trip for him!

Hi ME!! I'm so glad you're excited!!! I'm excited you're here!!:banana: And it WAS a great trip for Sean- so it was for us all!! He really only had a hard time in a couple of instances- so it was really, really good. :love:

Woo Hoo! The whole family will be together! :yay:

:dance3: :dance3: :dance3: :dance3:

I'm in. Your family is beautiful. :goodvibes

Well, thank-you so much! ANd thanks for joining in! :woohoo:

Bummer about missing your ADR at CP, but that flatbread looks delicious!





Gorgeous!

The flatbread WAS very good- both of them were. I was glad, because the last time we ate at the Mara we weren't that excited about it. But definitely enjoyed the food this time around. And the atmosphere!

Hello!
I'm new to the Disboards when it comes to replying. I have been reading/lurking for years. I will not let another PODSNEL report go by without saying how much I enjoy your attention to detail and the fun you have wherever you go. Your photos tell a story on their own. Your stories exude love and laughter. I'm on board for another adventure!:thumbsup2

Well, Hello, areck!! Thank-you very, very much for all of your kind words. I am so honored to be your first post coming out of years of lurkdom! :worship: But...more than that...I am incredibly touched by your kind and generous spirit. I had tears streaming down my cheeks this morning when I read your post. It means so much to me that you enjoy what i'm writing, that you're getting something out of it. If I am doing everything you say I am, writing all these TRs, well, then, I think it is soooo worth it. Many, many thanks for letting me know. :hug:

[Must C Mickey]

Just wanted to say how great it is that Sean was along for the trip. I'm in too & ready for another post... :thumbsup2

[podsnel]

Our plans had to take a turn because it was getting later than we thought, and we decided to just go to Epcot and save MK for another day.

We ALWAYS do MK first on our trips with Sean.

We ALWAYS do Crystal Palace on our first day with Sean.

Well, that wasn't happening today. And I guess we were getting over-confident because things were going so well. So we just skipped that part of our day. But...for Sean, that meant we were deviating from our plan. Our plan that was in writing. In a book. That he knew by heart. The book that helped him to feel safe, and secure in a world of unexpected and unwanted surprises. :sad2: Uh-Oh!

We got to Epcot, and went to buy Sean his ticket (DH & I have DVC APs, and I had gotten tickets online before leaving for T&T, just in case Sean wasn't going to come). And he started to get upset. So we purchased a 3 day pass for him, knowing we could add-on as we went. But Sean was NOT going into the park. He was just not ready. Because this was not the plan.:sad2:

Oh boy. Are we stupid, or what? :faint: So Pods stayed outside of the EPCOT entrance with Sean, and the rest of us went into the park. UGH. The single rider line for TT was only 5 minutes, so we went for that. And with our matching tie-dyes (that I had made at the HHI DVC), I guess it was easy to see we were a set, so guess what? They put us all together anyway! :woohoo:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0101.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0103.jpg

We love that ride! And we were so bummed Sean wasn't with us, because it is one of HIS favorites, too. Oh well, hopefully we would have plenty of rides later...:sad2: Anyway, we were deciding what to do next, and I called Pods to see how it was going....guess what? They were IN EPCOT!! :yay: He had promised Sean popcorn, so that's what they were looking for when we found them. Ahhh...what a relief! Here's a cautious Sean, FINALLY in the park-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0001.jpg

We made our way back to the front to hit Guest Services for our GAC. Then we found a photographer to take our family's photo to commemorate this very special occasion!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0002.jpg

We stopped for a minute to look at the fountains-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0004.jpg

Before heading back to TT for our first of what we assumed would be many, many TT rides.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0006.jpg

Well, you know what they say about when you A$$-u-me something. A few minutes into the wait, it was announced that TT was having technical difficulties, and we should come back later. Uh-oh....this is the perfect situation for a melt down....but...Sean was fine. He just turned around and walked out like this was something that happens every day. :scared1: We were shocked- and sooooooooooo relieved!! We headed over to Mission Space, which he didn't want to ride, so he waited with Dad while the others of us rode.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0009.jpg

We went over to the Living Seas to ride Nemo, but 2 minutes into the building, Sean didn't want to go in, so he stayed outside with Dad.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0011.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0013.jpg

A quick look at the manatees and we were back outside-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0016.jpg

To head over to Soarin', where it was pods' turn to ride with the boys. Sean and I went looking for some space for him to burn off some energy, and found a little spot over by Imagination where he could run around-

First, he sat quietly and played with the calculator on my phone.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0017.jpg

Then, he ran around like aspeed demon, which he usually does.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0019.jpg

I guess this might sound like a "bust", being that he was saying no to so many attractions. But it is actually the opposite of a "bust", this was all a huge success. Because look at him- he was somewhere other than our house or his school, and he was happy. So, SO happy!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0023.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0024-1.jpg

Life...is good. :hug:

[NMW]

subscribing

[podsnel]

Just wanted to say how great it is that Sean was along for the trip. I'm in too & ready for another post... :thumbsup2

Hi Lori!! Thanks so much for sharing our happiness! :goodvibes Thanks for reading!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

I LOVE those pictures of Sean smiling! Makes me want to cry! :sad1: SO sweet! And I LOVE the family photo of ALL of you in front of Spaceship Earth. I imagine it is really hard having to constantly be worried about how he is going to react, but I imagine it's just as difficult when he's not there...like your family isn't complete. All the worrying and meltdowns must be worth it for the moments you had with Sean this day in Epcot!

Just out of curiousity, how do the younger boys handle it all? I'm sure it must be frustrating for them at times, to have to wait around or plan your next move around him. I am glad that you and the boys went into Epcot when Sean wouldn't. As much as I'm sure they'd understand, it wouldn't be fair to them to leave and THANK GOD it worked out and Sean went in after all! Seems like you and Pods are a great team! :thumbsup2

[UGAFan0829]

Wooo-hoo, another Ellen TR!!:woohoo: I just made my way here, and I am so enjoying it already! I am soooo very happy that you guys were able to get Sean to come along on this trip--I can only imagine how much this meant to you. You guys are wonderful parents...seeing what you go through just to coach him out of his fears is truly amazing. I can't wait to read more!!

[mom2shayleeandlogan]

Beautiful family photo at Epcot! Sean looks so happy to be at WDW! :goodvibes

[CRdisMom]

Joan! How was Christmas? I haven't talked to you in two whole days, I'm going through withdrawals!! :rotfl: Did Peter like his keggerator? Pods says his works just fine- at least it did all Christmas day! :rotfl: I think I see some Pilsner glasses in his future...

I love the idea of a keggerator. Tim loves his beer too. One of our upcoming summer trips involves are visit to a small brewery in New Ulm, MN.(very german) I would say if you are going to invest in beer glasses consider buying the ones that Sam Adams makes. Tim swears by them. Something about the shape of the glass and the etching on the bottom helps create a unique beer drinking experience. For me that would have been college--but that's another story...:rotfl2:

yes the concept of social stories are working. I thank you very much for that. :goodvibes I was sooo pleased to see Sean's smiling face. It is truly amazing how they can totally be banking on one thing and then go with the flow out of nowhere. Glad it all worked out.

BTW I never would have thought to put corn and chicken on a pizza.

[podsnel]

subscribing

Thank-you! I hope you like it! :goodvibes

I LOVE those pictures of Sean smiling! Makes me want to cry! :sad1: SO sweet! And I LOVE the family photo of ALL of you in front of Spaceship Earth. I imagine it is really hard having to constantly be worried about how he is going to react, but I imagine it's just as difficult when he's not there...like your family isn't complete. All the worrying and meltdowns must be worth it for the moments you had with Sean this day in Epcot!

Just out of curiousity, how do the younger boys handle it all? I'm sure it must be frustrating for them at times, to have to wait around or plan your next move around him. I am glad that you and the boys went into Epcot when Sean wouldn't. As much as I'm sure they'd understand, it wouldn't be fair to them to leave and THANK GOD it worked out and Sean went in after all! Seems like you and Pods are a great team! :thumbsup2

hey Nikki! It IS like our family isn't complete when Sean isn't there. But there are a lot of things that he just wouldn't want to do, or that would be impossible for him to do, and we don't ever want the other 2 to miss out because of him and his needs. So we constantly try to find a happy balance. Our boys handle having an autistic brother really well, I think. What you described is very accurate, it can be frustrating for them at times. But, fortunately, they are both able to empathize with him, and they both are protective of him and in general want him to be happy. It probably makes a BIG difference that they are younger- he has been there always for them. And they are really, really good kids. They aren't without issues- don't get me wrong, but they are really, really kind and thoughtful where Sean is concerned. When we were on this vacation (or even when we were getting ready for this by staying in hotels) they knew Sean's needs came first, and that THAT was what was most important. They speak to him gently and calmly when he is upset, they try to find things to make him happy if he is sad. They also know that we go on vacations WITHOUT Sean, and that this is their time to be most important- and how lucky we all are to have the luxury of that break.

We are all very blessed.:grouphug:

Wooo-hoo, another Ellen TR!!:woohoo: I just made my way here, and I am so enjoying it already! I am soooo very happy that you guys were able to get Sean to come along on this trip--I can only imagine how much this meant to you. You guys are wonderful parents...seeing what you go through just to coach him out of his fears is truly amazing. I can't wait to read more!!

Awww...thanks! And I'm so happy you've joined in again!! :banana: And thanks for sharing our joy over Sean. :goodvibes I'll post the next installmaent when I figure out how to hook upthe scanner I got for Christmas- I have some old pics I want to include in the next post.:rolleyes1

Beautiful family photo at Epcot! Sean looks so happy to be at WDW! :goodvibes

Thanks! We actually used a photopass version for our Christmas card this year because it all meant soooooo much. :lovestruc When I made those shirts in HHI a year and a half ago, I started out making 4- for our cruise, that Sean wouldn't be coming on. I ended up smacking myself in my head as soon as I was done, because I hoped that SOMEDAY he would travel with us again (when we were in HHI that time, it was when he wouldn't go to sleep away camp, it was VERY traumatic, and we were just feeling kind of low at that point). The HHI CMs graciously let me make another shirt, and so the fact that it was made with hope, when we really had none, but that the hope became a reality that day...well, it was just very meaningful. :littleangel:

[MEK]

Oh Ellen -

Your last two updates were stellar and your comments about the trip being such a success for Sean just gets me choked up. He does look so seriously happy. And I love that group photo of you guys in your beautiful tied dyed shirts. :thumbsup2 That is one awesome pics. One to have framed and display proudly.

Your pics are Kidani make me wish I was there right now. I loved that place! I can't wait to read what happens next!

[praisehisname]

Anyway, we were deciding what to do next, and I called Pods to see how it was going....guess what? They were IN EPCOT!! :yay:

A few minutes into the wait, it was announced that TT was having technical difficulties, and we should come back later. Uh-oh....this is the perfect situation for a melt down....but...Sean was fine.

I guess this might sound like a "bust", being that he was saying no to so many attractions. But it is actually the opposite of a "bust", this was all a huge success. Because look at him- he was somewhere other than our house or his school, and he was happy. So, SO happy!

Woo hoo! :yay: You must have been bursting with excitement about how well Sean was adapting to your schedule changes! :hug:

[SweetSpot]

You all are wonder with Sean. I am a mom of a 19yr autistic son so I truly understand how hard it can be when they decide they won't do something or when meltdowns occur. When my son was younger the only way to get him to do something so different was long term preparation and following the plan we gave him. I am so happy that Sean was able to adapt to the changes and you were all able to enjoy your day. You have a beautiful family.

I have enjoyed reading all of your trip reports and have really been looking forward to this one. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences in such detail with us all!

[KirstenB]

Hi I just read your and Pods trip report for the Food and Wine Festival. It was fun hearing about all the different rides, restaurants, and golf! I remember a TR you did a long time ago, and I think Sean stayed at home, while you took your younger sons. I'm so glad to hear he got on the plane, got checked in the the resort, had lunch, etc.

I know I'm drawing out all the steps, but our younger dd is 4 and has ASD. Sometimes I feel like our lives are divided into these tiny little milestones, like going to McDonald's for lunch, and not having a meltdown. Our last trip to Orlando was less than magical, so I'm trying to look for good ideas to make the trip this summer go better.

I love that you guys did lots of practice stays at local hotels back home. And that you made him a picture book. Please keep sharing the ideas that worked!!:goodvibes

[podsnel]

I love the idea of a keggerator. Tim loves his beer too. One of our upcoming summer trips involves are visit to a small brewery in New Ulm, MN.(very german) I would say if you are going to invest in beer glasses consider buying the ones that Sam Adams makes. Tim swears by them. Something about the shape of the glass and the etching on the bottom helps create a unique beer drinking experience. For me that would have been college--but that's another story...:rotfl2:

yes the concept of social stories are working. I thank you very much for that. :goodvibes I was sooo pleased to see Sean's smiling face. It is truly amazing how they can totally be banking on one thing and then go with the flow out of nowhere. Glad it all worked out.

BTW I never would have thought to put corn and chicken on a pizza.

Hi Laura! Thanks for the beer glass advice- I'll have to make sure I get them in time for Valentine's Day. :) Soooo...you had a unique drinking experience in college, HMMMMMMMM???? Would love to hear all about THAT sometime! :rotfl2:

Glad the social stories are working! And I was happy to see Sean smiling, too, thanks. :goodvibes

FWIW, corn on pizza is pretty good!:thumbsup2

Oh Ellen -

Your last two updates were stellar and your comments about the trip being such a success for Sean just gets me choked up. He does look so seriously happy. And I love that group photo of you guys in your beautiful tied dyed shirts. :thumbsup2 That is one awesome pics. One to have framed and display proudly.

Your pics are Kidani make me wish I was there right now. I loved that place! I can't wait to read what happens next!

Hi Mary Ellen!! Sorry for making you cry! It was a very good trip, though. :thumbsup2 I'm going to post our Christmas card in a minute with the Photopass version of the tshirt pic. :goodvibes

And we LOVED Kidani, too! It was so peaceful and relaxing, we hated to leave.

Woo hoo! :yay: You must have been bursting with excitement about how well Sean was adapting to your schedule changes! :hug:

Yes! Absolutely BURSTING!!:goodvibes

You all are wonder with Sean. I am a mom of a 19yr autistic son so I truly understand how hard it can be when they decide they won't do something or when meltdowns occur. When my son was younger the only way to get him to do something so different was long term preparation and following the plan we gave him. I am so happy that Sean was able to adapt to the changes and you were all able to enjoy your day. You have a beautiful family.

I have enjoyed reading all of your trip reports and have really been looking forward to this one. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences in such detail with us all!

Hi Sweetspot- nice to meet you! You're right, you do truly understand what I'm talking about! I think the long term prep is key to getting Sean (and so many others) to step beyond their comfort zone. Is your son much better with transitions now that he's older? I'd love to hear about whatever helps him, too. :)

Thank-you for taking the time to say hello!!

Hi I just read your and Pods trip report for the Food and Wine Festival. It was fun hearing about all the different rides, restaurants, and golf! I remember a TR you did a long time ago, and I think Sean stayed at home, while you took your younger sons. I'm so glad to hear he got on the plane, got checked in the the resort, had lunch, etc.

I know I'm drawing out all the steps, but our younger dd is 4 and has ASD. Sometimes I feel like our lives are divided into these tiny little milestones, like going to McDonald's for lunch, and not having a meltdown. Our last trip to Orlando was less than magical, so I'm trying to look for good ideas to make the trip this summer go better.

I love that you guys did lots of practice stays at local hotels back home. And that you made him a picture book. Please keep sharing the ideas that worked!!:goodvibes

Hi Kristen! I have written a bunch of TRs on here since I signed on 2 years ago, and this is the first one where Sean is one of the "characters". I'm happy you've liked them! Thanks for sharing our happiness over his "steps". :goodvibes I will try to think of all the things that made it better for him this time. As well as those that did not. You're right to celebrate all those tiny little milestones in your DD's life, they mean an awful lot!

[podsnel]

So, since so many people have commented on the tshirts, I thought I'd give a little backround and show our Christmas card this year (that was with the Photopass photo). I also posted this info in a response to someone else in the thread, so if you've already read this and I'm boring you I apologize! :flower3:

When we went to HHI 2 summers ago, Sean was not in a good place. That week he was supposed to go to sleepaway camp (that he had been to before, and loved) while we drove down to the Disney resort in HHI to meet family for 5 days. Well, Sean wouldn't get out of the van. And no cajoling, pleading or begging could change his mind. He was staying in the car, he wanted to go home. It was really, really horrible. A definite lowpoint in our autism adventure with Sean. Anyway, Sheree & Henry came at a moment's notice to stay with Sean (God Bless them, if I haven't said that enough) and the rest of us were on our way. Sad, disillusioned and frustrated, but on our way.

That week I made 4 Mickey Tie-Dyes for us to wear on the Disney Cruise we were taking in November (without Sean). As SOON as I finished, I realized :idea: I should have made one for Sean, too, even if he wasn't going on the cruise. DOH! After all, I did hope that SOMEDAY we would be able to get him to go to WDW with us again. Even if right at that point, none of us were too hopeful it would ever happen again. Well, of course the Cms let me make another one....

So, that we are all wearing the tshirts together, in WDW, and the tshirts were made with only a glimmer of hope, and the hope became reality that day- well, it really was just very, very meaningful. Happy New Year, everyone-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img001.jpg

[LindaBabe]

Loving your tr. That is SO wonderful that Sean had so many successes this trip.

My granddaughter has autism (along with a million other things) and I think her difficuties have taught me a new appreciation for the "little things" that we so called 'normal' people take for granted. You're doing a great job!

[podsnel]

Ahhhh...Club Cool...well known to DISers as the place you take people who AREN'T DISers to have a refreshing beverage called the Beverly. :crazy2: It never disappoints! :rotfl: Karajeboo's DD Ally did it to Pods back in September-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Sept%2009/2009_100106summer0290-1.jpg

That photo never gets old- that's the second time I've posted it today!! :rotfl2: Anyway, on this trip there was only one shot for some Club Cool fun, my DS12, Tyler. I have posted these on facebook, and my friends have actually said, "I can't believe you did that to your baby!!" I'd like to show you, first, the baby to which they are referring...on his first trip to WDW, at 5 1/2 mos old (Sean was 3 1/2)-

His first Character meet- looks like I enjoyed torturing the little guy at an early age!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img003.jpg

First time at Stormalong Bay with Daddy-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img004.jpg

At his first MK parade-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img002.jpg

And at LTT with a certain Mouse who wanted to take him home with her!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img005.jpg

Aren't baby boys great?? Ohh...I hate that they grow so fast. Except, it is nice that you can do so many fun things with them as they grow- like take them to Club Cool for a refreshing sodie-pop!! :rotfl: It's fun for the whole family!

Look kids!! It's Coca Cola from around the world!! Let's go Italian today!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0025.jpg

What THE????
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0026.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0027.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0028.jpg

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: Well, looks like Club Cool is NOT fun for the WHOLE family!! :rotfl: After we all caught our breath from laughing so hard, we walked back across the park to go on TT...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0030.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0034.jpg

Which was STILL having technical difficulties! Oh no! But Sean was still happy, so the other boys went to ride MS while Sean & I waited outside, Sean once again having the joy of running amuck in Epcot-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0031.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0037.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0036.jpg

THIS- the allowing him space in places that weren't super crowded. and being able to let him burn off energy- THIS is one of the things that made this trip a success for Sean. When the boys came out of MS, it was time for us to head over to the Biergarten for dinner. But first, a quick stop to cool off-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0038.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0040.jpg

I guess my boys can never pass up an opportunity to get wet! Next up- A FINE dinner in Germany! WITH french fries!!:thumbsup2

[MEK]

Great Christmas Card! I love that - its perfect!

I also love that you posted some of your older photos. It's so fun to see the teenage/pre teen boys when they were babies. :grouphug:ahhhhhhh!

Sounds like the evening is still going really well in Epcot!

Ewwwwww - the beverly! I have to tell you that Denny actually likes it. When I saw him drinking he said, "what? What's wrong with it?" I got a good laugh out of that!

[gellybean]

Great update!!!


It is sad how fast little boys grow up but if those shots of your DS12 are any indication, I'd say there is a LOT of fun coming up ! :lmao:

The expressions on his face were hilarious!


So glad you guys figured out a way to get Sean back to Disney and to get your group shot all in your tie dyes!!

:goodvibes

[podsnel]

Loving your tr. That is SO wonderful that Sean had so many successes this trip.

My granddaughter has autism (along with a million other things) and I think her difficuties have taught me a new appreciation for the "little things" that we so called 'normal' people take for granted. You're doing a great job!

you sound like a great grandma, Lindababe!!! I think YOU are doing a great job!:hug: And thanks so much for reading along. :thumbsup2

Great Christmas Card! I love that - its perfect!

I also love that you posted some of your older photos. It's so fun to see the teenage/pre teen boys when they were babies. :grouphug:ahhhhhhh!

Sounds like the evening is still going really well in Epcot!

Ewwwwww - the beverly! I have to tell you that Denny actually likes it. When I saw him drinking he said, "what? What's wrong with it?" I got a good laugh out of that!

Thanks about the card- :goodvibes I'm really glad that you liked the old photos- as I said (SOMEWHERE....I'm losing track!) I didn't want to bore anyone...but...now that I have the scanner, all bets are off!!:rotfl: Really, I'm glad you could appreciate them as a Mom of always-growing-neverending-boys...:sad1::sad::sad::hug:

And...I am OK with the bev- I kind of thought Ty would maybe like it....OOOPS!!!! :rotfl:

Great update!!!


It is sad how fast little boys grow up but if those shots of your DD12 are any indication, I'd say there is a LOT of fun coming up ! :lmao:

The expressions on his face were hilarious!


So glad you guys figured out a way to get Sean back to Disney and to get your group shot all in your tie dyes!!

:goodvibes

Hi there, gellybean!

My DS12 is TOO much fun!!! He is a class clown kind of a guy- and i want to smush him with love and kisses every single second, much to his chagrin! He IS making the best of it, though! :lmao:

And yea- it was the best thing EVER that Sean came with us to Disney- it's the best place for our family to vacation in, there is no doubt!!:dance3::dance3:

[areck]

You are too funny with the pics of Tyler. Excellent shots. Did he ever question why you were so "camera ready"? My 12 year old son would not have taken it as well, but it won't stop me from trying.:hug: It's those moments when we realize we did not have kids just to take care of them.;)

[podsnel]

You are too funny with the pics of Tyler. Excellent shots. Did he ever question why you were so "camera ready"? My 12 year old son would not have taken it as well, but it won't stop me from trying.:hug: It's those moments when we realize we did not have kids just to take care of them.;)

Very well put! No, he really didn't ask about the camera in his face- he's used to me being all snap-happy all the time, so it must not have occured to him. I'm thinking he'll be more careful in the future, though, if that situation comes up again! :rotfl:

[podsnel]

We took the boat over to the other side of WS (at my DH's request- we went on that boat the first time in September, and now I wonder if I'll ever get him or my kids to hoof-it again). The last time DH & I ate at Biergarten was waaaaaaaaaaayyyy back in 1985 when Pods brought me to WDW as a kind of a graduation present from college, I guess. I had never been before, and he thought that that was something that needed to be taken care of. :lovestruc ANyway, in case you were wondering, we ordered off of a menu and had a plate of what looked like baloney for $6.95! :rotfl: Here are some pics from the last time we were there, and from the EPCOT CENTER booklet- kind of cool to see, I just found this album this morning!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img008.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img009.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img010.jpg

Who wears short-shorts? Pods wears short shorts! :rotfl:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img006.jpg

Well, things have really changed in 24 years at WDW, huh? So in 2009, we walked up to the podium and got on line with all the others waiting to be seated for their ADRs. I asked if they had gotten notice that we had a member of our party who would need french fries for dinner. Nope. They knew nothing, it had not been noted anywhere. :sad2: This always happens, but usually we can get it straightened out. See, there is a # you can call prior to vacation for WDW dietary services if you have an allergy or a special diet- in our case, the special diet requires Sean eating french fries at restaurants that don't really serve them. I also filled out a form they had emailed to me. Although they always assure me that all the restaurants have french fries, they are wrong as all the restaurant employees will tell you. But the woman at the podium was so nice, she got the MGR. for us, who was also SO nice, and said it was not a problem, that they would send someone next door to the US restaurant to get Sean some fries. :thumbsup2 We waited outside, and Sean was getting a little tired. So he did what he has always done when he's tired at WDW-

"Say Daddy- Pick me up!"
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0041.jpg

Which was not really a problem, until now! Sean's gotten a little bit too big for being carried around by Daddy!! :rotfl: So they sat on a bench-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0043.jpg

Before long, we were sitting for the buffet. It was really, really good!! AND the entertainment was excellent, all of us thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It is so pretty in there- really does feel like you're in a little German village during Octoberfest. We were very anxious to go here because there is alot of German in our family's heritage, so it was great for the kids to experience.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0045-1.jpg

Pods & I ordered the beer sampler- LOVED this!!! The group of 3 who were seated with us were chefs from Mexico- they liked the looks of ours, so they got one, too!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0047-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0050-1.jpg

Timmy was bopping to the music the whole night-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0051-1.jpg

I think we were in the same seats we had in 1985! How crazy is that? Here's the 2009 pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0054-1.jpg

Here's 1985, if you can make it out-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img007.jpg

Timmy having a grand old time-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0052-1.jpg

I asked, but no one was willing to go up and dance the polka with me- which is pretty surprising from Timmy, because he is usually into that stuff. I think the troops were getting really tired.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0057-1.jpg

This was a great first night, even Pods said so! I think it will have to become a tradition for us. So, we finished up, and we did what i have learned is the ONLY way to shop in WDW with my family. Send them back to the room, while I stay and spend some $$ by myself!! I needed to get a gift for Pods' Aunt Irma who we would be visiting later in the week, and I thought something from Germany would be nice-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0059-1.jpg

Ummm... no, not that nice (I got her a cute cow bell to hang on her door). Then over to Japan for a Bonsai tree I had scoped out for her on our trip in Sept. On the way, I got to enjoy Billy Ocean performing "Caribbean Queen".

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0061-1.jpg

Then back to Kidani for....the last game of THE WORLD SERIES!!! But would we be able to stay up for it???? :rolleyes1

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

MMM, love that beer flight! I had one of those on our honeymoon...followed by a large Optimator (the darkest one on the flight) which then was followed by silly World Showcase pictures, if you remember!

Sounds like you all had a GREAT day! :thumbsup2

[praisehisname]

So, that we are all wearing the tshirts together, in WDW, and the tshirts were made with only a glimmer of hope, and the hope became reality that day- well, it really was just very, very meaningful. Happy New Year, everyone-

What a great story! :goodvibes Happy New Year!


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0026.jpg

:rotfl2: Bad mommy! :lmao:


Who wears short-shorts? Pods wears short shorts! :rotfl:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img006.jpg

:scared1: Does he know you posted this? :rolleyes1


I think we were in the same seats we had in 1985! How crazy is that? Here's the 2009 pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0054-1.jpg

Here's 1985, if you can make it out-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/img007.jpg

It really does look like you're in the same seat! Crazy!

I really enjoyed this update!

[podsnel]

MMM, love that beer flight! I had one of those on our honeymoon...followed by a large Optimator (the darkest one on the flight) which then was followed by silly World Showcase pictures, if you remember!

Sounds like you all had a GREAT day! :thumbsup2

Oh yea...I DEFINITELY remember that day of your honeymoon TR...like I was there! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

What a great story! :goodvibes Happy New Year!




:rotfl2: Bad mommy! :lmao:




:scared1: Does he know you posted this? :rolleyes1




It really does look like you're in the same seat! Crazy!

I really enjoyed this update!

Happy New Year to you, too!! And yes, he knows i posted the pic- we were laughing at it this morning when I scanned it in. We figure it was the 80's- everyone was looking stupid!! :lmao:

[Mysteria]

Only a few pages in and you've already brought tears to my eyes and made me laugh. I can't even tell you how happy I am for you that everything went fairly smooth with Sean.

[podsnel]

Only a few pages in and you've already brought tears to my eyes and made me laugh. I can't even tell you how happy I am for you that everything went fairly smooth with Sean.

Myst! I've MYST you!! (I think there's a lack of sufficient oxygen in my house, because I actually find that somewhat amusing). :rotfl: Thanks for being happy for us- I loved texting back and forth while we were at WDW! We still need that make-up lunch, though!! :thumbsup2

[Mysteria]

Myst! I've MYST you!! (I think there's a lack of sufficient oxygen in my house, because I actually find that somewhat amusing). :rotfl: Thanks for being happy for us- I loved texting back and forth while we were at WDW! We still need that make-up lunch, though!! :thumbsup2

Myst you too! :rotfl: No lack of oxygen here and I still find it amusing. :thumbsup2 Sent you a pm about lunch.

[podsnel]

Back at Kidani, the boys were all in front of the TV to watch the last game of the World Series. Now, we are BIG Yankees fans in my house, so this was a night we had been waiting for for a long time (being that as soon as my kids were old enough to follow a team, the Yankees had not made it near this series!). Only difference with tonight's game...was that today we had all woken up and been out the front door at 6am, so the troops were a wee bit sleepy. Sean had no problem going into the master bedroom and snuggling into that nice, oh-so-comfy king size bed, and was out like a light. But we could move him later, right? Ummm....maybe not so much. :rotfl: Anyway, my other two sons made it pretty far into the game, but as you may or may not recall, it was a very late game, so eventually, they were sawing wood just like their older brother.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0064-1.jpg

Looks pretty comfy, huh? Well, we waited until the end of the last inning, and Pods started waking them up. I have to say, the thought of him hoppin' around the room, shaking the kids, telling them to get up, back and forth from the chair to the couch and back and forth, over and over...well, it still cracks me up, even now. Because the kids were zombies! They would sit up, eyes shut tight, then fall right back down and continue snoring. :rotfl2: So, so hysterical!!

"C'mon! C'mon! This is it!! This is IT!!!!"
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0067-1.jpg

Yay! I got one out of bed!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0068-1.jpg

That's right Ty!! Open those eyes!! It's what we've been waiting for!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0070-1.jpg

NOOOOO!!!! Not asleep again!!! GET UP!!! GET UP!!!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0071-1.jpg

I was laughing so hard at him the whole time. :rotfl: He had been waiting for years for this moment, he actually talked about it all the time, how excited they would all be watching the Yankees win the World Series- and here his favorite co-fans were too busy catchin' zzzz's to worry about catching the end of this important game. Well, fortunately, they eventually rallied, and were there to see the finish. Look at how proud Pods is of himself that he persisted and got them up!

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WOO-HOO!!!!! GO YANKEES!!!!!!

Well, after all that, it was back to bed- with Pods & Sean & I sharing the king until 3 or 4 in the morning when Pods had had enough and crawled out onto the couch with Tyler. Poor, poor Pods. Works his tail off, pays for all the vacations, jumps around like a jack rabbit, sleeps on the couch. :rotfl:

In the morning, we were headed to DAK and were planning to spend a mellow day hanging around Kidani a bit after that. Hope you'll join us in the next post!

[englishrose47]

Ellen Iam here !!! I need to go to work NOW so ill catch up later !!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oh so cute! I'm sure the boys were glad, in the long run, that you woke them up. They probably would have been pissed if they missed it!

Can't wait to hear where you went on Day 2! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

Two more stellar updates. I love you old photos, so please keep scanning them in! I will admit, that's a bit too much leg there on Pods, but that was the style back in the ! We were just watching some old basketball games where the uniform shorts were about that length with the strip down the side. :sad2: Crazy! That's one style I hope never returns! HAHA!

Dinner at the Biergarten is a lot of fun! And the beer flight looks yummy - all those different colors of beer. Yum!

I'm glad Pods was able to get the boys up to see the end of the game. But poor Pods - sleeping on the couch! I hope he gets his bed back!

[podsnel]

Ellen Iam here !!! I need to go to work NOW so ill catch up later !!

Hi Rosie! Thanks for stopping by! :flower3:

Oh so cute! I'm sure the boys were glad, in the long run, that you woke them up. They probably would have been pissed if they missed it!

Can't wait to hear where you went on Day 2! :thumbsup2

Yes, they were glad. They were really trying to wake up- they just couldn't do it! Finally, thankfully though they rallied. They would have been BEYOND pissed if they would have missed it!! :scared1:

Two more stellar updates. I love you old photos, so please keep scanning them in! I will admit, that's a bit too much leg there on Pods, but that was the style back in the ! We were just watching some old basketball games where the uniform shorts were about that length with the strip down the side. :sad2: Crazy! That's one style I hope never returns! HAHA!

Dinner at the Biergarten is a lot of fun! And the beer flight looks yummy - all those different colors of beer. Yum!

I'm glad Pods was able to get the boys up to see the end of the game. But poor Pods - sleeping on the couch! I hope he gets his bed back!

I am posting this TR on the DVC board, too, and one of my friends there made the comment that her Dh used to wear those short shorts but with knee high white socks. :lmao: :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: SOOOOO funny! I will keep posting the old pics, I am LOVING my new scanner almost as much as you love your new camera!! :goodvibes

I liked all the beer in the flight EXCEPT for the wheat beer- but that's just me, I think I just am not a wheat beer fan. It was a good time there- and I really enjoyed talking to our table mates- even though most of them spoke no English! :) Food & beer- the universal language! :thumbsup2

You'll have to wait and see where Pods sleeps next- maybe I should have called the TR "Which pull out will Pods get tonight?" :rotfl:

[podsnel]

Here are some old scrapbook pages from that first trip with Sean & Tyler. Hope you like them!

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Awwww......:goodvibes

[englishrose47]

All caught up Ellen !!! I loved the Club Cool pix !!! Biergarten was very good when I went last year !!I definately wanna do it again !!! I am a fan of German food !

[podsnel]

On Thursday morning, we were going to head to DAK for some fun. The regular bus stop was getting a lid the whole time we were there, so we just had the very quick walk out front under the Port Cochere. So yesterday, we couldn't get a MK bus, and this morning, we waited forever for an AK bus. I think we were just getting to the bus stop right after the last bus had come, either that or consistently picking the wrong park! :rotfl: If we had been heading to AK yesterday and MK today, I would be writing that the bus service is FABULOUS!! Ah well, such is the life of the WDW bus system- you either hit it or you don't. I'm just glad that AKV doesn't share with a bunch of other resorts- dedicated buses are a GOOD THING!

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Soon we were going for the quick ride to the park-

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And in!

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The first place we were headed was EE- we all love this ride, except Sean. Although he does enjoy watching it! I waited with him outside while the other 3 went first-

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And when they came out, i rode with Tyler. Tim was being a little funny about riding again- which is how he is. Sometimes he wants every thrill, sometimes he wants IASW. Well, ok, he never wants IASW, but you get the idea. Tyler and I got up to the ride, and the CM asked, "Do you want to ride in the front row?" :woohoo: I've never done THAT before, and neither had Tyler, so we were SO EXCITED!!! :woohoo: MEK, I was thinking of you the entire time- your DH did a great job taking all those pics- after a certain point, I was having too much fun to take out the camera!! And, probably screaming too much as well! Anyway, here are a few that I did manage to take-

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If you have never ridden EE in the front row, I have to say, it is a whole OTHER experience!! That drop looks a LOT bigger when there is noone between you and it! Just a really, really awesome/scary/fun ride- we are so LUCKY we got to do it.

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I feel so bad my hand is covering that kid's face! Sorry kid!

After our big adreneline rush to kick off our day, we walked over to DinoLand to ride TS with Sean, one of the rides that was in the book and that he enjoys.

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Then the others went on PW while we watched-

Those daredevils!
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Everytime we watch them on this ride, Goofy comes out! He must wait for us to show up!

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Then it was over to Dinosaur, where we saw the Photopass guy. This was with my camera, though- my pics just came out better here, and most all cases to be honest.

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Notice the Yankees shirts? The day before, the parks were FILLED with Phillies fans- but not today! Not one Phillies shirt anywhere- guess all the Phillies fans went home Wednesday night! :rotfl: We went to ride Dinosaur, and as soon as we got to the front, they said they were having technical difficulties and gave us FPs for later. AGAIN! Just like TT! Oh well...the boys wanted to ride KRR, and Sean wanted some french fries, so we did that, Sean and I watching from the bridge while he enjoyed his snack.

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They got a little wet, not too too bad-

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It was time to head back to Kidani, anyway. Our first family trip as DVC members, and we were planning to try something new with the kids- called "Let's hang out and enjoy life at WDW." Would it work? You'll have to wait and see....:hippie:

[podsnel]

All caught up Ellen !!! I loved the Club Cool pix !!! Biergarten was very good when I went last year !!I definately wanna do it again !!! I am a fan of German food !

Hi rosie! Club Cool is very funny- but I've run out of victims. I need some new unsuspecting recruits....:rolleyes1 :rotfl: Guess I'll have to start hangin' out at Universal and draggin' people over!!

[mom2shayleeandlogan]

Loved all the 80's pics, too funny! Great update, can't wait to read more:goodvibes

[podsnel]

Loved all the 80's pics, too funny! Great update, can't wait to read more:goodvibes

Thanks- I'll try to post more from the 80's later on- :goodvibes Pods had LOTS of short shorts all over WDW, it seems! :rotfl: Unfortunately, so did I...and worse, i also had a perm...:crazy2:

[MEK]

Oh Ellen -

I love your update but I am pictureless again today at work. I promise to look at all the pretty pics tonight. Dang this restricted work computer! :sad2:

[podsnel]

We were going to Sanaa for lunch. This would be my second visit here, and my family's first. I love this restaurant for so, so many reasons- the food is delicious and unique (I could live on that bread service), the restaurant itself is absolutely stunning, and where else in the world (and maybe not even just WDW, but THE world) can you dine and while enjoying zebras and giraffes right outside the restaurant? All of this adds up to a VERY one-of-a-kind dining experience. But why else do I love Sanaa? Flying lessons. They offer some wonderful wine flights!

The first thing I checked on when I got to the podium was the Sean/french fries situation. Sanaa has never served french fries to anyone. They can't- they don't have a fryer in the kitchen. So I wanted to be sure that dietary services had called the restaurant today and that we would still be able to eat here (as I had left a message for DS that morning telling them Biergarten didn't know anything about us coming last night and wanted to be sure the other restaurants would). Yes, they had been contacted! Excellent! This way to our table-

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We ordered, including the fries- and the waiter, or someone, told us that he didn't know WHO we WERE, but that today the chef would be making FFs in Sanaa for the very first time- that the chef had come up with some way to cook them, as Sanaa does not have traditional cooking apparatus in their kitchen. WOW. They were doing all of this for our son- how AMAZING was that?? Sanaa is the BEST!!:worship:

Sean & I read "PB Bear" while we waited- in the way we always do, I read the words (he can read them, too, this is just what we do) and he "reads" the pictures (it is a rebus book, with pictures for some of the words).

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The newish wine flight list-

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I ordered the Richards Bay flight, because it came with 2 chenin blancs, and I love me some Chenin Blanc!-

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I LOVE to fly!! Then the bread service came out- we had Naan, Onion Kulcha & Paneer Parantha with Coriander Chutney, Red pepper Hummus and Cucumber raita-

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We tore into the breads. Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm....this is one of my favorite things to eat ever, anywhere. That chutney is soooo spicy and soooooooo delicious and those breads are so different....yummmmmmmmmmmmm!! DS12 decided to play some music on his phone, the "Chicken Song"- not the one you dance to, the one that's from Benny Hill. He thinks this song is HILARIOUS....and I was freaking out for him to shut it down....but he kept it really low and mostly was just acting stupid for his, timmy & Pods' amusement. And there was no one sitting anywhere near us, thank goodness.

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The best behaved man in the family-

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When the fries came out, we asked if we could thank the chef, so he came out to say hello and take a pic-

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Love, love, LOVE Sanaa!! :love: Love, love, LOVE Disney!!

Pods & I ordered the same thing- Slow cooked in Gravy, Shrimp with Green Curry Sauce and Short Ribs, I got them with Jasmine rice, he ordered the Five Grain Pilaf (which I told him not to order because it tastes like dirt. So then he told me this pilaf isn't very good- it tastes like dirt.).:upsidedow However, everything else is delicious, and we gobble up as much as we can, although clearly, after all that bread, we could have just shared one entree.

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The thing about those shrimp- they are poached so perfectly in that curry...you know how when shrimp are cooked just right, and they snap! when you bite into them? That is what those shrimpies do. :thumbsup2 Ty & Tim had ordered pizza off of the kids menu-

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which came with carrots and even MORE stupidity-

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I focused on the friendly skies-

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While Pods finished his African beer (sorry I forget which!). We enjoyed the OTHER animals that were outside-

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Too bad we weren't at the window, but those are mostly tables of 4. We thanked our wonderful waiter, Christopher,

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And then headed out. Cont'd next post-

[englishrose47]

How awesome that Sanaa accomadated Sean soooooo well !!! Question does he eat anything else !! Cuz to me it sounds like perfect kid diet!!!!:lmao:

[podsnel]

As we left Sanaa, I took a few photos-

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Time to go for a swim!! On the way back to our room to change-

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Tim in the elevator-

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Outside of the elevator-

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Soon we were at the new pool- most important of all, would the slide at Kidani be better than the BORING snoozer slide over at Jambo?

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What a relief, the boys agree, this slide is much, much better! I went for a walk-

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And when i noticed the Maji bar had Tangerine Dreams, i ordered one to share with Pods- to me, this is the BEST frozen cocktail, it is not too sweet, and it tastes like a creamsicle. MMM!!

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I was happy to see that animals could be seen from here, and the Red River Hogs, which had been in a cage being acclimated on my DISmom visit in the spring were now released and lovin' life. They are too cute!!

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There was also a naturalist stationed there to answer questions. Nice! Back at the pool, the last round of bingo was going on while our boys swam, and Sean and Pods enjoyed the hot tub-

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Then it was time for the usual, Sean doing laps around the perimeter of the pool and everywhere else in creation. Good thing I had my running flip-flops on! :rolleyes:

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When we left the pool, they were about to start some more games at the pool for the younger kids. Although I wouldn't trade my shoes for anyone else's, I am envious of those families who bought DVC with young ones and would be able to enjoy all this kid stuff together. We headed back to the resort, to go enjoy our savannah view-

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Had a great 1st visit to Samawati Springs and Uwanja Camp, it is extremely well themed and lovely to look at, I'm sure we'll make loads of memories there in our life together.

[englishrose47]

Sean looks like he is having a BALL !!! Bless him !!

[UGAFan0829]

Great update, Ellen! I loved your review of Sanaa. I have to say that it's not somewhere that I would normally try, but your review made it look very good. I am so glad that they were accomodating to Sean's needs...I know that makes all the difference in the world for you guys!
As always, can't wait to read more!!

[KirstenB]

I loved the pix of Tyler and Tim at Sanaa goofing around. They looked really happy with their pizza. Our younger dd Zoe does laps around the perimeter of the pool too. She is crazy happy if she's playing with the gate latches.

[MEK]

Amazing last update and even better pictures in all the updates. But, I have to tell you that my number 1 favorite is your scrapbook pictures. As much as I love digital scrapbooks, there is something soooooooo special about the originals. Those pages are gorgeous. I did one with our very first trip to Disney, then after that it was all digital.

Front row on EE IS a totally different experience, isn't it? Great pics from the front row.

OMG - the Saana meal looks so delicious. I am now starting to regret that I reserved Yak & Yeti over Saana. Probably a big mistake, but I really want to try both. How cool that they made special FFs for Sean! And the wine flight - yummy! I wish I was drinking that right now.

I really love Kidani. Everytime I see pictures I wish I was there. So many great DVC resorts, so little time!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Love the updates Ellen! You guys are the cutest. So when you say Sean eats nothing but french fries, you REALLY mean he eats nothing but french fries? Breakfast, lunch and dinner? Does he EVER snack on anything else or pick at your plates when you are out to eat? Just curious!

[podsnel]

Oh Ellen -

I love your update but I am pictureless again today at work. I promise to look at all the pretty pics tonight. Dang this restricted work computer! :sad2:

I appreciate you checking in to say hi!! Talk to you later!

How awesome that Sanaa accomadated Sean soooooo well !!! Question does he eat anything else !! Cuz to me it sounds like perfect kid diet!!!!:lmao:

He does eat other things, but in restaurants he sticks to french fries. We've tried other foods in restaurants (when he was little they would make him PB&J on special bread, oatmeal with bananas mashed in it, just to name a couple) but it always went to waste because he would only have the french fries (and would eat nothing if the ffs weren't there), so we stopped requesting anything else.

Sean looks like he is having a BALL !!! Bless him !!

Thanks Rosie, he was!! :goodvibes

Great update, Ellen! I loved your review of Sanaa. I have to say that it's not somewhere that I would normally try, but your review made it look very good. I am so glad that they were accomodating to Sean's needs...I know that makes all the difference in the world for you guys!
As always, can't wait to read more!!

It truly does make all the difference in the world- it allows ALL of us to enjoy vacation, and we are truly grateful to Disney for it! Thanks, Missy!

I loved the pix of Tyler and Tim at Sanaa goofing around. They looked really happy with their pizza. Our younger dd Zoe does laps around the perimeter of the pool too. She is crazy happy if she's playing with the gate latches.

They are sooooooooooooooooooooooooo silly! They totally just crack each other up, and Pods is no better. :rolleyes2 All of them just doing one stupid thing after another, intertwined with chair dancing to that Chicken song!! :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: Ok, they crack me up, too- I admit it. They were having a FABULOUS time! :rotfl2:

But then does Zoe escape, if she plays with the latches? Sean is a MASTER escape artist. He can figure any lock out, nothing holds him back. :eek:

[podsnel]

Amazing last update and even better pictures in all the updates. But, I have to tell you that my number 1 favorite is your scrapbook pictures. As much as I love digital scrapbooks, there is something soooooooo special about the originals. Those pages are gorgeous. I did one with our very first trip to Disney, then after that it was all digital.

Front row on EE IS a totally different experience, isn't it? Great pics from the front row.

OMG - the Saana meal looks so delicious. I am now starting to regret that I reserved Yak & Yeti over Saana. Probably a big mistake, but I really want to try both. How cool that they made special FFs for Sean! And the wine flight - yummy! I wish I was drinking that right now.

I really love Kidani. Everytime I see pictures I wish I was there. So many great DVC resorts, so little time!

Oh, Mary Ellen, i made soooooo many scrapbooks for such a long time!! That one was one of my first, before I became Creative Memories best customer! :rotfl: I have an attic FILLED with all kinds of stuff because I finally stopped. It was so much fun. Now I just make the shutterfly books. I'm actually a little freaked out, though- I thought all my albums were in a spot that they're NOT, and it's got me very baffled- and sad, because I really want those books!! :confused3

Loni & I did Y&Y on our first girls trip- it was lunch, and we thought it was just ok- kind of like mass produced Chinese. But I've seen a lot of food porn from there recently, all from dinner, and it's making me want to go as well! Maybe with pods in the fall.... Yea...

Love the updates Ellen! You guys are the cutest. So when you say Sean eats nothing but french fries, you REALLY mean he eats nothing but french fries? Breakfast, lunch and dinner? Does he EVER snack on anything else or pick at your plates when you are out to eat? Just curious!

:rotfl2: he DOES eat other food- just not very successfully inrestaurants. He eats nutrigrain bars for breakfast....a PB&J, another nutrigrain, and a bag of popcorn for lunch; he snacks on popcorn a LOT (he LOVES Smartfood- I can't even smell the stuff anymore he has loved it TOO much:scared1:), he'll eat swedish fish and pretzel rods and twizzlers and m&Ms (minimally), and the french fries. His diet is AWFUL!!! We used to make this disgusting oatmeal for him- but he stopped eating it. Can't imagine why. It was made with rice milk, and we put in pieces of turkey, peas and raisins. :eek::crazy2::crazy2::crazy2: Would you like to try it? I could bring it by school for lunch tomorrow!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: With the OT and his aide, he eats hot dogs...cut into teeny, tiny pieces- and gags on every one. Not worth it. Right now they're working on hummus- he dips his pretzel in. That he doesn't gag as much, but he's CLEARLY not enjoying it yet if his screaming is any indication. Keep your fingers crossed! :) We do alot of vitamin/protein powder supplementing, too. Thanks for asking. :goodvibes

[Mysteria]

:goodvibes Everyone looks so happy! I love all your pics in and around Sanna and the resort.

Two major thumbs up for them having fries for Sean. :cool1: That's one of those Disney touches they don't often get enough credit for.

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

:goodvibes Everyone looks so happy! I love all your pics in and around Sanna and the resort.

Two major thumbs up for them having fries for Sean. :cool1: That's one of those Disney touches they don't often get enough credit for.

Yes, you are right! THAT is why Disney is far superior to any other vacation destination I could think of and why I keep going back over and over! And it's something that you can't even begin to explain to someone who doesn't "get it." When someone asks you, "Why do you love Disney so much?" You can't answer with, "Because they made my son french fries." It's just one of the many many things that makes Disney so special and make you want to shout the following quote....



Love, love, LOVE Sanaa!! :love: Love, love, LOVE Disney!!



I hear ya, sister! I can't tell you how many times during our trip I shout, "Ugh, I LOVE disney!" Even at home, too, if I'm being honest....

[karajeboo]

Never fear, ITSK is here!!!! :rotfl2: Just got all caught up and I love love LOVE all the pics of Sean!!! He looks so happy in Disney!!!! I'm thrilled that you got there as a family again.

Promise me that if you and Pods ever do come visit, he will NOT wear those shorts from 1985!!!!! :lmao:

[CRdisMom]

okay love the french fries. I will second everyones' thoughts--that is what Disney does best making your vacation easier.:cloud9: Physical scrapbooks are wonderful but I too am getting hooked on the electronic versions. When I was in college I worked for Creative Memories in St. Cloud. Left with wayyyy to much stuff. Have I used it all--umm no.:rotfl2:

One question though--since Sanaa is non-traditional, do they have the traditional kids meals? I think I could get Tim there but I would need to know that I have some old fall backs for the girls.

[KirstenB]

Ellen, no Zoe never tries to escape at the pool, thank goodness!! She just walks the interior perimeter, stopping at the gate latches, and plays with them over and over. We joke that her motto is, "if it's worth doing once, then doing it 200 times is even better"!!

I too am a CM addict! I haven't gone electronic with scrapping yet. But I love the quick kits that they sell . I can knock out a dozen pages in no time. To show you what a geek I am, I take my scrapbooking on DH and my's trip to HHI each spring. Mom and Dad watch the kids for 3 days. The first day, I burn through about a years worth of pix. I just move everything out to the porch, and look at palm trees while I work. Then we go play mini-golf or kayak.

I'm glad Sanaa serves kids' foods. Our older dd is so picky, I'd crossed this restaurant off our list. Unlike many ASD kiddos, Zoe will eat virtually anything, go figure.

[MAGICFOR2]

Ellen!!! I'm here and all caught up. I'm so pleased that Sean came along with you and did so well!:yay: Your touching description of how much those tie-dyed shirts meant to you brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for sharing your scrapbook pics - so sweet! We went to WDW in '97, too. I remember that cake! It was the first time and our boys were 12 and 13. It was an amazing trip and started an addiction that can't be stopped! :goodvibes

I love the Disney moments that make each trip special and unique. No one else comes close! :thumbsup2 I hope they never change that.

[podsnel]

:goodvibes Everyone looks so happy! I love all your pics in and around Sanna and the resort.

Two major thumbs up for them having fries for Sean. :cool1: That's one of those Disney touches they don't often get enough credit for.

They don't get enough credit for it- and it is SO appreciated by families like ours!:lovestruc

Yes, you are right! THAT is why Disney is far superior to any other vacation destination I could think of and why I keep going back over and over! And it's something that you can't even begin to explain to someone who doesn't "get it." When someone asks you, "Why do you love Disney so much?" You can't answer with, "Because they made my son french fries." It's just one of the many many things that makes Disney so special and make you want to shout the following quote....



I hear ya, sister! I can't tell you how many times during our trip I shout, "Ugh, I LOVE disney!" Even at home, too, if I'm being honest....

:rotfl: I LOL'd over why I would love Disney so much- but that IS a HUGE part of it, and it would sound incredibly ridiculous if I said that to someone! :rotfl: I was a serious Disney fan always, but with Sean? Totally put me over the top!

Never fear, ITSK is here!!!! :rotfl2: Just got all caught up and I love love LOVE all the pics of Sean!!! He looks so happy in Disney!!!! I'm thrilled that you got there as a family again.

Promise me that if you and Pods ever do come visit, he will NOT wear those shorts from 1985!!!!! :lmao:

The shorts are worn for me and me alone on those "special nights"...:rolleyes:
Seriously- the first time I ever saw him, and I actually remember the first time because he made THAT much of an impression, was 1979 in September. He was outside of my boyfriend's dorm at Rider college (who I was visiting). He was throwing a football or a frisbee around, and he was wearing those short-shorts...And NOTHING else. It was a beautiful, beautiful thing. :love: Those short-shorts were on this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img017-1.jpg

DAMN!! I am a lucky, LUCKY girl!! :woohoo: :rotfl2:

okay love the french fries. I will second everyones' thoughts--that is what Disney does best making your vacation easier.:cloud9: Physical scrapbooks are wonderful but I too am getting hooked on the electronic versions. When I was in college I worked for Creative Memories in St. Cloud. Left with wayyyy to much stuff. Have I used it all--umm no.:rotfl2:

One question though--since Sanaa is non-traditional, do they have the traditional kids meals? I think I could get Tim there but I would need to know that I have some old fall backs for the girls.

Well your CM stuff with my CM stuff could probably open a store!! It was a ton of fun to do, though. And yes, they have a regular kids menu- the boys had pizza. Tyler could probably have eaten something else, but Timmy would have hated their food- here's a link from All ears-

http://allears.net/menu/menu_sanaak.htm

Ellen, no Zoe never tries to escape at the pool, thank goodness!! She just walks the interior perimeter, stopping at the gate latches, and plays with them over and over. We joke that her motto is, "if it's worth doing once, then doing it 200 times is even better"!!

I too am a CM addict! I haven't gone electronic with scrapping yet. But I love the quick kits that they sell . I can knock out a dozen pages in no time. To show you what a geek I am, I take my scrapbooking on DH and my's trip to HHI each spring. Mom and Dad watch the kids for 3 days. The first day, I burn through about a years worth of pix. I just move everything out to the porch, and look at palm trees while I work. Then we go play mini-golf or kayak.

I'm glad Sanaa serves kids' foods. Our older dd is so picky, I'd crossed this restaurant off our list. Unlike many ASD kiddos, Zoe will eat virtually anything, go figure.

My SIL is like that on vacation- she brings all the stuff and scrapbooks like crazy! It was alot of fun to do it with my friends- we used to all love that, because we could catch up on each others families while we were scrapping.

And that is AWESOME that Zoe will eat everything!!! :yay: A good diet can only help! Yesterday there was no screaming with the hummus for Sean, my fingers are crossed that there might be a new protein in his life. :worship:

Ellen!!! I'm here and all caught up. I'm so pleased that Sean came along with you and did so well!:yay: Your touching description of how much those tie-dyed shirts meant to you brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for sharing your scrapbook pics - so sweet! We went to WDW in '97, too. I remember that cake! It was the first time and our boys were 12 and 13. It was an amazing trip and started an addiction that can't be stopped! :goodvibes

I love the Disney moments that make each trip special and unique. No one else comes close! :thumbsup2 I hope they never change that.

That cake was the craziest thing!!! I remember being disappointed because I never knew when we'd be back to see the "real" castle- I guess things have worked out!! :goodvibes

And thanks for coming, Tammie!!:banana:

Back later with an update-

[karajeboo]

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img017-1.jpg



HOTTIE!!!! And look at all that hair!!!!

[podsnel]

HOTTIE!!!! And look at all that hair!!!!

That's what the kids said!! Well, not the hottie part...that's what I said! :love:

[podsnel]

Back in our room, we went out to the large balcony to enjoy the savannah view. It was wonderful! There were so many animals right in front of us- especially giraffes!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0136.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0147-1.jpg

Ty and Tim enjoyed watching for a little while-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0150.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0169-1.jpg

Pods was there, too.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0171.jpg

But Sean was only outside briefly- he was tired, and decided to take a shower and then relax in the big bed with a book for a bit. It occured to us how nice it was for everyone, Sean included, to have all this extra space. I actually think having the extra room beyond what we have normally been used to went a LONG way towards Sean's optimum vacation- he had the ability to de-stress away from the rest of the family when he needed to. Yay DVC!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0176-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0177.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0178.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0181-1.jpg

We thought it might be a good time for T&T to check out the arcade- for months we had been saving our change in a big bottle at home. We cashed it in right before the trip- and the amount was $137 !!! Thanks Nikki for that tip!! :thumbsup2 While they played (they pretty much had it to themselves) I made my way to Kohari Treasures for a mug refill- and for some pics!

This is outside of Sanaa, they were singing and playing the drums-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0183-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0185.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0190.jpg

It was time to go, drawing our relaxing Kidani day to a close....we needed to get to the MK- we still hadn't been!! :scared1:

[Mysteria]

One thing I love about AKL, now I see at AKV too, is the lounge areas. They are so inviting. I just want to sit there with some friends and a glass of wine.

Hey they even put in a hdden mickey mug! :thumbsup2

[tinytreasures]

loving your report, can't wait to read more

[areck]

It certainly has been a great day for your family. When I'm on vacation with the kids, "going with the flow" is the best strategy. Very enjoyable and relaxing. Smiles all around!:goodvibes

We rented vacation points before and loved having the extra room . At some point we need to have time away from each other, even if it's only for a few minutes.

[podsnel]

We were on our way to the bus stop, hoping our bad-bus-timing had run out and we'd be hopping on a bus to Magic Kingdom quickly.

While we waited....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0167.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0168.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0170.jpg

We were in luck!! We wanted to go to MK, and there was a BUS actually going to MK!!! Yippee for us! Soon we were there, and so, so happy to be in the park.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0173.jpg

The first ride we went to was Buzz Lightyear....Sean just loves him, and well, so do we all!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0176.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0178.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0181.jpg

The tea cups were still closed (they were scheduled to open SOMETIME this week) so that was sad because it's another of Sean's favorites, but we were able to ride the two mountains that were open (SM was stll closed) and a few others that Sean enjoyed (he won't go on those mountains anymore).

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0184.jpg

After a couple of hours, it was back to AKV for dinner at BOMA- yum....
We sat in the back of the bus, all 3 of the boys were in the last seat having a laugh attack!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0187-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0188.jpg

Don't you love it when all your kids are laughing together? :lovestruc Now, I thought I was clear on the buses- they all stop at Kidani first, Jambo second, except for DTD which does the opposite. We were headed to Jambo. So in the back there are no windows, you can't really tell where you are. The bus stopped, almost everyone got off, we drove, and stopped again. We all went to get off at Jambo, except...we were at Kidani!! I asked the bus driver, "Don't all the buses stop at Kidani first?" And he said yes- except when they come from MK they stop at Jambo first. :confused3 But he said not to worry, he'd be happy to take us to Jambo. I still don't know what's going on about this, but it all worked out I guess.

There is such a contrast between Jambo and Kidani! Jambo is soooo impressive, so hustle bustle, soooo dramatic. Kidani is much more quaint and relaxing, but I think very, very beautiful as well. I do love both atmospheres, though. I also think it's very appropriate that the DVC building IS more relaxed, because I think DVC vacations tend to be more relaxed. We know we're going back, what's the rush- right? :goodvibes Anyway, we didn't spend alot of time taking in the grandeur of the lobby- we were HUNGRY!! On to BOMA!

The best thing about a buffet? Lots and LOTS of french fries for Sean!! We all got something to eat right away. Here's a few of our plates-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0189.jpg

Love the soups there, this was a seafood one-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0190.jpg

I think this was a Magic Star?

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0191.jpg

More soup for you!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0192.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0193.jpg

And how could we eat at Boma without hummus? And more of that yummy falafel? Yes, I know they look like little turd balls- but those are the yummiest turd balls around!! (Not that I really can compare....)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0194.jpg

T&T piled up their plates with zebra domes and other desserts, and after finishing up, we decided to go to outside to check out those night vision goggles. On the way, we passed the playground, which Sean just had to go explore-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0197.jpg

We also passed a couple in a secluded hot tub that was having a little too much fun. Walk fast kids!! :eek: The night vision was a BIG hit with T&T, they loved it. Glad there were lots of animals for them to check out!! Also glad they didn't point in the direction of the aforementioned hot tub. :scared1:

We decided to walk back to Kidani, and I have to say, that walk looks MUCH worse than it really is. It was probably 5 or 7 minutes- piece of cake! A couple pics of the library-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0198.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0199.jpg

Before we headed back to the room where we all fell fast asleep...except for Pods. Who ended up out on the couch, while Sean, Timmy & I snoozed away together in that great big bed! Poor, poor Pods!! :rotfl: Actually, he said the sofabed was very comfy, so don't feel too bad for him.

In the morning- it was time to leave Kidani. Oh No!! We don't wanna go!! I'm sure you are asking, well, why ARE you going?? WHY oh WHY would anyone stay in 3 places in 6 nights???

Stay tuned to find out....

[MEK]

Great update! Lovely evening at MK. Great animal pics from the balcony.
And dinner - yum! So nice that the bus driver took you back. And the walk home was probably lovely. We were so lazy this summer that we kept taking the car back and forth because it was soooooooo blazing hot! So glad that Sean is continuing to have a great time. All the pics of the "4" boys are great!

So, I really am curious - why 3 resorts in 6 nights? I just assumed it was because you booked late and that's what was available. You must be very organized to keep up with all that packing and unpacking.

Anyway, looking forward to the next stop on the Disney resort tour bus! Great trip so far!

[Mysteria]

Woohoo finally into MK! Glad you finally had some luck with the bus.

That first plate of food looks like mine from Nov. You sure you didn't sneak a pic of my plate? :rotfl:

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

What a lovely day you had! Too bad you didn't get to stay longer at Kidani but it seems like you made the most of it!


We cashed it in right before the trip- and the amount was $137 !!! Thanks Nikki for that tip!! :thumbsup2


:thumbsup2

[MAGICFOR2]

You ARE a lucky girl! ;) Pods was a blond, too! My DH was a blond when I met him - after the AF cut it all off, it came back in brown. Your youngest looks just like Pods!

I love all your animal pics from your SV! Isn't it amazing to be out there that close to all those beautiful creatures?

Oh! I was behind a post - looks like a great meal at Boma! I love how your family was able to laugh and take time to just enjoy being together! So Sweet! Which rides did Sean like at MK?

[praisehisname]

Here are some old scrapbook pages from that first trip with Sean & Tyler.

Loved all the pages!

Isn't front row on EE awesome? :thumbsup2

I've always been really leary of the menu at Sanaa, because I'm not adventurous, but your food looked like something I might like. I'll have to give it a try sometime.


And when i noticed the Maji bar had Tangerine Dreams, i ordered one to share with Pods- to me, this is the BEST frozen cocktail, it is not too sweet, and it tastes like a creamsicle. MMM!!

I tried one of those on our trip, and it was good! :thumbsup2


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110506summer0184.jpg

So pretty at night! :lovestruc

Your Boma dinner looked good! And about the hot-tub couple...awkward...:rolleyes1

[podsnel]

One thing I love about AKL, now I see at AKV too, is the lounge areas. They are so inviting. I just want to sit there with some friends and a glass of wine.

Hey they even put in a hdden mickey mug! :thumbsup2

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

loving your report, can't wait to read more

Hi! And thank-you!! :goodvibes

It certainly has been a great day for your family. When I'm on vacation with the kids, "going with the flow" is the best strategy. Very enjoyable and relaxing. Smiles all around!:goodvibes

We rented vacation points before and loved having the extra room . At some point we need to have time away from each other, even if it's only for a few minutes.

You're right, even just a few minutes of alone time goes a long way. And we thought we didn't need the extra room- HAH!

Great update! Lovely evening at MK. Great animal pics from the balcony.
And dinner - yum! So nice that the bus driver took you back. And the walk home was probably lovely. We were so lazy this summer that we kept taking the car back and forth because it was soooooooo blazing hot! So glad that Sean is continuing to have a great time. All the pics of the "4" boys are great!

So, I really am curious - why 3 resorts in 6 nights? I just assumed it was because you booked late and that's what was available. You must be very organized to keep up with all that packing and unpacking.

Anyway, looking forward to the next stop on the Disney resort tour bus! Great trip so far!

I booked at Kidani at 11mos on the dot! Then switched everything- I'll explain it in the next post. And thanks for riding the bus! :rotfl:

Woohoo finally into MK! Glad you finally had some luck with the bus.

That first plate of food looks like mine from Nov. You sure you didn't sneak a pic of my plate? :rotfl:

Yes, that's your plate all right...don't you remember when I ran in and said "LOOK! GEORGE CLOONEY!" and you looked away from your food? THAT"S when I took it! :rolleyes:

What a lovely day you had! Too bad you didn't get to stay longer at Kidani but it seems like you made the most of it!



:thumbsup2

Yes, we made the most of all of the resorts we stayed at. Even HRH, which is coming up next....

You ARE a lucky girl! ;) Pods was a blond, too! My DH was a blond when I met him - after the AF cut it all off, it came back in brown. Your youngest looks just like Pods!

I love all your animal pics from your SV! Isn't it amazing to be out there that close to all those beautiful creatures?

Oh! I was behind a post - looks like a great meal at Boma! I love how your family was able to laugh and take time to just enjoy being together! So Sweet! Which rides did Sean like at MK?

It came back in BROWN???? Pods' hair (what's left of it :rolleyes:) is dark now, but it's that blonde turned dark kind of hair. That's crazy your DH's turned BROWN!!!

I'd tell you which rides Sean likes at MK, but then I'd have to shoot you. :rotfl2: Actually, that's part of the next installment or so....:goodvibes But he definitely knows which rides he will go on and which he won't!

Loved all the pages!

Isn't front row on EE awesome? :thumbsup2

I've always been really leary of the menu at Sanaa, because I'm not adventurous, but your food looked like something I might like. I'll have to give it a try sometime.

That was the first time I have ever ridden in the front row of a coaster (unless you count BTMRR, but I don't because of the engine in front of you). I'm not really a roller coaster kind of a girl....but I am different about Disney rides, I guess. It was AWESOME!!!! Scared the CRAP outta me!!:rotfl:
With food, however, i am VERY adventurous- what is it you think you wouldn't like at Sanaa?




I tried one of those on our trip, and it was good! :thumbsup2

The BEST!! :woohoo:


So pretty at night! :lovestruc

Your Boma dinner looked good! And about the hot-tub couple...awkward...:rolleyes1

Boma is an excellent buffet- something for everyone. :thumbsup2

[podsnel]

As usual, the morning came too quickly, and I had to finish packing us up. Today we were checking out of Kidani after only 2 nights, and were moving over to the dark side ...aka, Universal....for the weekend. ANd then coming back to WDW and BLT on Sunday night. :sad2: Why oh why were we doing this????? Well....originally, at 11 mos out, I had booked Kidani for 5 nights followed by 2 nights at HRH (Hard Rock Hotel), traveling Sunday to Sunday. We had planned to go to Universal because Tyler LOVES the roller coasters there, we thought Timmy might get brave on this trip and love them, too, and Sean sometimes loves all the DR Seuss stuff. We also always take a 1/2 day off from the parks to go out to Spring Hill (on the west coast) to visit Pods' Aunt Irma. ANd for that reason we need a car. Then we would just fly home from Tampa (which is about an hour from her). So the car + Universal fits together. But....this was NJ week. And Continental (the only direct flight to MCO out of Newark Airport) is very, very aware that it IS NJ Week, when the teachers convention (that no teachers go to) takes place and we all take off as a result. Airfares are over double the usual price, just like it's Easter or Christmas. I kept hoping they would come down, but they never did. So.....we had a change of plans. If we went down on Weds, and came home on Tuesday, we would save $1000. That's a LOT of Mickey bars!! We wouldn't be able to stay as long, and we still wanted to hit Universal on the weekend...because of the higher points needed for a weekend at Kidani. It would STINK for me, having to unpack and pack 3 times, but to save $1000 I could live with it. I just never unpacked our clothes- and I put the WDW clothes in one piece of luggage, and the Universal stuff in another. That made it a little easier. Although, FWIW, now that we have more points (from adding on at BCV) and the points have been reallocated making weekend stays a little less insane, we would just stay at WDW the whole time, and rent a car for a couple of days for Universal and to visit Aunt Irma. Ok...enough talking! On to some photos!!

On this morning, Pods & T&T were going golfing at Osprey Ridge. T&T were SO excited, because they had never played 18 holes before. I was spending the day with Sean, we were going to go wherever he chose, based on the options given to him in his "book". While waiting for bell services to get the luggage to store for the day, I took some last minute room pics-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0206.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0209.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0211.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0215.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0216.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0217.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0218.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0219.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0220.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0221.jpg

Sean waited on the balcony-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0222.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0225.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0063-1.jpg

The bellman took our luggage and we were on our way to DTD- Sean had a VERY strong preference for where we would spend the day. He wanted to hit those Golden Arches of McDonald's!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0226-1.jpg

The bus stop being constructed-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0227.jpg

A bus for DTD came almost immediately!! Looks like we weren't the ones in our family with the bad bus karma!! :rotfl: 4 large fries later....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0228.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0230.jpg

Back in a bit with all the fun we had! :banana: :banana:

[CRdisMom]

you guys had the 2 bedroom villa right?

Looking into renting points for this October. Have an offer for an off-site condo for $500 for the week. 3 bedrooms 2 bath. I know horrible. I'm doing all in my power to stay on site, thus looking at points.

Love that Sean picked McDonalds. Looking at the photos I'm having a craving for them too. Hee-hee

[MEK]

I probably would have changed resorts twice to save a grand, too. But now that you've done that, me thinks it will probably be a long time until you do it again! :rotfl:

Anyway, I am looking forward to hearing about your HRH adventure! I haven't been to Universal in a long, long time and I would like to go again before I am too old to ride the coasters. Plus, I've heard that simpsons ride is pretty good.

Looking forward to more!

[podsnel]

you guys had the 2 bedroom villa right?

Looking into renting points for this October. Have an offer for an off-site condo for $500 for the week. 3 bedrooms 2 bath. I know horrible. I'm doing all in my power to stay on site, thus looking at points.

Love that Sean picked McDonalds. Looking at the photos I'm having a craving for them too. Hee-hee

We had a 1bdrm. The 1 BDRMs at kidani & BLT have 2 bathrooms- a very, very nice addition, along with the pull-out chairbed, so beds for 5 instead of 4. Everyone showered in the master bath, but it was nice to have the other bathroom for OTHER purposes. :rolleyes1

I would LOVE some McD's right now- I'm dieting post-holidays before I go to STJ and I am STARVING!!!! :rotfl:

Good luck with wherever you decide to stay! I know there are a LOT of great deals staying offsite- very hard to pass up in this economy. I feel very, very fortunate to have the points. :)

I probably would have changed resorts twice to save a grand, too. But now that you've done that, me thinks it will probably be a long time until you do it again! :rotfl:

Anyway, I am looking forward to hearing about your HRH adventure! I haven't been to Universal in a long, long time and I would like to go again before I am too old to ride the coasters. Plus, I've heard that simpsons ride is pretty good.

Looking forward to more!

No, I will NOT be doing that again this year- although when we go on the cruise in October it will be 2 nights BCV, 7 nights DCL and 1 night Vero (hopefully). Ugh. At least it's a longer timeframe! It's actually a big part of why I don't want to add on more days in Sept with Pods- I want to actually UNPACK and relax!! Even when He & I went in Sept 09 we were in 3 different rooms (2 nights Vero, the 1st room at OKW, followed by the next room at OKW because our neighbors were too loud). So to say i am totally OVER the packing/moving/packing/moving/packing/moving/packing thing is an understatement!! :rotfl:

[podsnel]

Sean had his fries bag in-hand, and we were off to find something for me to eat. I have been DYING to try EOS, and this seemed like the perfect time. We opened the door, and HOLY CANNOLI BATMAN!!! That's a LONG LINE!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0233.jpg

It started AT the DOOR!! :scared1: I almost turned and left, thinking Sean isn't good with lines...but, he had his bag'o'fries, so i thought I would give it a shot- I could always leave if Sean was unhappy, right? Well...Sean was just fine!! And, surprisingly, that line moved VERY quickly- what an efficient, smoothly run system! Being this was my first visit, I ordered The Original 1762-Roast beef, creamy horseradish sauce and cheddar cheese served hot on an artisan loaf.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0234-1.jpg

Opened up-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0235-1.jpg

It was DELICIOUS!!! I know it looks like what's the big deal, but trust me!! It IS a big deal!! I will definitely be eating here again.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0236.jpg

While I sat on a bench and ate my yummy sandwich, Sean got to explore the open and empty area- always, as we know, a good thing.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0237.jpg

When I was finished, we headed over to Once Upon a Toy. Sean made a beeline for this guy-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0238.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0239.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0240-1.jpg

And I was so happy to see that he STILL loves Buzz. :lovestruc We went inside, where Sean played with the Mr Potato Head computer-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0244.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0245.jpg

Then checked out a few other stores, like WOD and TrenD-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0242.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0243.jpg

Where he was an absolutely perfect window shopper- about a million times better than any of the other men in the family would be!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0246.jpg

A couple more pics outside for Mommy-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0248.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0249.jpg

Can I tell you how AGREEABLE he was? He was soooooo wonderful! He was perfectly happy to do almost anything! Although he did NOT want to ride in the balloon!! :rotfl: So we skipped that. All-in-all, a wonderful time in DTD, a place Sean had never visited before. AWESOME!!!

We were just about done here, so we decided to hop on the bus and go over to MK for the rest of our day together. The bus to the Contemporary Resort was waiting, and we hopped right on. It was then that I checked my phone for messages- Karajeboo had texted me that there was a lunatic on a shooting spree in downtown Orlando and I-4 was closed while they were looking for him. I relayed the info to the other couple on the bus, and texted it to Pods, while we all waited for updates from Kara. This was the day after the craziness at fort hood- how awful it all was. Fortunately, Kara texted back that the two incidents were NOT related, and that this was NOT a terrorist act. Either way, it doesn't make for a happy ending for all those families affected by both of these horrible tragedies. :sad1: But at least we all felt safe in the Happiest Place on Earth.

Next up...what does Sean like to ride in MK?? And what does he absolutely HATE, much like his brothers?? See you soon!

[UGAFan0829]

Woohoo! More great updates! I'm so glad to hear that you and Sean had such a good day at DTD! And I have to say that I'm shocked that this was your 1st time trying EOS!! Wow...it is good isn't it?! I can't wait to hear more about MK!!

[podsnel]

While Sean and I were having a great day, Pods and T&T were having a wonderful time themselves! Our original plan was that they would play 9 holes at Oak Trail, the 9 hole walking course. But, that course, along with the Magnolia and Palm courses, was closed because of a huge tournament that would be taking place after our stay.(The Children's Miracle Network, i think?) That left LBV and Osprey Ridge. Since Pods & I had absolutely LOVED playing OR, with its abundant wildlife and far-away feel, back in October, we chose that course for the boys. And.....they loved it!! Even better, they got to play 18 holes instead of 9, which all worked out very well. The three were allowed to ride in one cart, with the two smaller bags and DH's regular one. Pods says they had a beautiful day out on a beautiful course. :goodvibes Here are a few of the pics DH took of our young golfers-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0001.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0002.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0003.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0005.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0006.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0008.jpg

You can see the Four Seasons "construction" on this hole-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0010.jpg

Both boys have very powerful swings, they are a lot of fun to watch. :goodvibes

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

OH fantastic updates Ellen! I'm with Sean, McD's french fries are so delicious! It sounds like everyone had a great day!

OT - I started my NEW Pre-TR! Link is in my sig!

[podsnel]

OH fantastic updates Ellen! I'm with Sean, McD's french fries are so delicious! It sounds like everyone had a great day!

OT - I started my NEW Pre-TR! Link is in my sig!

I went right over and subbed! :goodvibes We're going to Jellyrolls on our last night in May- I've never been- so I'll let you know how it goes! :thumbsup2

And I have to say....McD's ffs are the best!

[MEK]

Wow.....that was the mother of all updates today. Good job. I love EOS and, you're right, that line really moves. I hope I get to eat there in May cause they have some yummy sandwiches.

Sorry to see you leave Kidani so soon. Your view was beautiful.

I hear ya on the packing and unpacking. In June I had a terrible time packing up and moving from Kidani to CSR. It just seemed like everything had multiplied 10X over, plus we had food to get rid of. Then after we got home we left 4 nights later to go to Niagara Falls. I was hoping to never see another suitcase after that!

It looks like the boys had a great time golfing at Osprey Ridge. I am still blown away by how beautiful that course is.

Really looking forward to hearing about HRH and Universal.

[WannaBeADisMom]

Hey Ellen, I'm sitting here, post-Bunco, reading your post about your time at DTD with Sean. I'm SO happy that you had such a great day together. He looks really, really happy! Can't wait to read about your time in MK. It sounds like you and Pods both spent some really amazing quality time with all your boys that day. :goodvibes

[podsnel]

Woohoo! More great updates! I'm so glad to hear that you and Sean had such a good day at DTD! And I have to say that I'm shocked that this was your 1st time trying EOS!! Wow...it is good isn't it?! I can't wait to hear more about MK!!

I know...can you believe it took me so long to become obsessed with their sandwiches like everyone else is around here?? :rotfl: There are probably a couple of reasons why....I usually prefer TS over CS, and I had not been near DTD for years until I started on these boards and went on my first DVC trip in June 08. When I ate at RR and Fultons. But I really loved it!! I will most definitely be checking out their offereings on all my visits from now on. :thumbsup2

Wow.....that was the mother of all updates today. Good job. I love EOS and, you're right, that line really moves. I hope I get to eat there in May cause they have some yummy sandwiches.

Sorry to see you leave Kidani so soon. Your view was beautiful.

I hear ya on the packing and unpacking. In June I had a terrible time packing up and moving from Kidani to CSR. It just seemed like everything had multiplied 10X over, plus we had food to get rid of. Then after we got home we left 4 nights later to go to Niagara Falls. I was hoping to never see another suitcase after that!

It looks like the boys had a great time golfing at Osprey Ridge. I am still blown away by how beautiful that course is.

Really looking forward to hearing about HRH and Universal.

Hi ME! I was trying to get a bunch out yesterday, I guess that was alot of updates!! :goodvibes Well, I leave for STJ soon so I'm trying to do alot before I go...

I'll be on to Universal soon...but I HATED leaving the bubble- even though HRH was very nice, it's not the same for me, we all know where my heart is! :lmao:

Hey Ellen, I'm sitting here, post-Bunco, reading your post about your time at DTD with Sean. I'm SO happy that you had such a great day together. He looks really, really happy! Can't wait to read about your time in MK. It sounds like you and Pods both spent some really amazing quality time with all your boys that day. :goodvibes

Hi Joan! I'm always so happy when you post! :hug: It was a really excellent day...which was very good, because the night was HORRIBLE!!! :sad2: But I'm not there yet....

I still can't get over that lucky chair at Bunco last night- every single person who sat in it rolled bunco, and Lynn THREE TIMES???? :scared1: It must be the nexxus of the universe, that chair! :rotfl2: Jackie is CRAZY if she doesn't march her butt and her chair into the 7-11 to buy lottery tickets...or at the very least, buy an armload of scratch offs and sit there in the chair at her coffee table and start scratchin' for cash!! :rotfl2::rotfl2: Too funny!!

[mom2shayleeandlogan]

It's always nice to hang out with one of your children. It looks like you and Sean had a wonderful afternoon!

[Mysteria]

What a great morning with Sean. Cant wait to hear about the rest of the day at MK.

EOS is hands down my favorite CS restaurant at Disney. Well probably anywhere for that matter. It's a must do every trip for us. Welcome to the EOS fanclub!

[podsnel]

It's always nice to hang out with one of your children. It looks like you and Sean had a wonderful afternoon!

One on one time is REALLY a beautiful thing!:love:

What a great morning with Sean. Cant wait to hear about the rest of the day at MK.

EOS is hands down my favorite CS restaurant at Disney. Well probably anywhere for that matter. It's a must do every trip for us. Welcome to the EOS fanclub!

Thanks for the welcome- I think Pods is a fan, too- just based on the fact he loves that I actually really LOVE a meal that costs $6!! :lmao: :rotfl2:

[MAGICFOR2]

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0238.jpg


So Sweet - "you've got a friend in me!"


And I was so happy to see that he STILL loves Buzz. :lovestruc We went inside, where Sean played with the Mr Potato Head computer-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0244.jpg

Looks like the friend next to him is wearing a matching shirt ;)







Where he was an absolutely perfect window shopper- about a million times better than any of the other men in the family would be!!

So great you found a shopping partner!


I'm so happy you and Sean had such a good time in DTD! He is doing so well! It's good that the other boys had fun too.

[englishrose47]

Great Updates Ellen !!!

[podsnel]

Sean and I walked over to the MK from the Contemporary bus stop and within minutes we were "walkin right down the middle of main st usa"...anyone else have this video tape? :goodvibes Sean has been watching the Disneyland Fun tape since he was 2, so whenever we enter the MK that song plays in my head... Anywho....I asked him to stop for pictures at least 20 times- and can I just tell you, that once again, he proved himself to be the BEST man in the family for the job (the rest of them would have been complaining after photo number 2!). Notice the Christmas garland? It must have been a busy night- as it was not there the night before-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0252.jpg

We snagged a Photopass photographer, who took a picture of the 3 of us! (Hey- who's THAT guy???)-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0254.jpg

I just remembered! I forgot to mention- my birthday is at the end of November, so upon Check-in at Kidani, I was presented with a birthday button. I LOVE the birthday button! CMs and characters EVERYWHERE made me feel extra special this entire vacation, wishing me "Happy Birthday". Which is kind of a big thing for me....because my birthday is right after Thanksgiving, most people usually forget about it. Never have I EVER been greeted with Happy Birthday SO MUCH (although this year on my actual BD on FB was a close second. :goodvibes). Birthday buttons ROCK!

We were headed to Tomorrowland, and our usual first stop at Buzz (especially when the TEA cups are still being refurbed)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0255.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0267.jpg

Do you notice how Sean is always holding something? We call these his friends- Blue from Blue's Clues, Thumper, and a book (which on other trips has been Green Eggs and Ham, but on this trip was PB Bear's Birthday Party). Well I said, "Sean- let's take another picture with your friends" and he pulled everything (or everyone) out of the backpack and started walking around with all 3. It was pretty funny (the big book makes this a bit cumbersome!).

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0268.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0270.jpg

Our Buzz Cheating Pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0272.jpg

And one we actually bought of us from 2 years ago-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/img020.jpg

I asked him if he would go on the COP with me (yes, I am one of the ones who loves this ride because it is so nostalgic!) and he flat-out REFUSED!! I even asked him TWICE just to be sure, but the answer was still no. What about the TTA (which I still call the WEDway People Mover)- sure! He charged right up that ramp!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0279.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0280.jpg

Over the TS-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0282.jpg

Into SM-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0283.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0284.jpg

Back over TS-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0285.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0287.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0288.jpg

Oh, and in case you're wondering, the new "voice from above" STINKS!!! I hate this new guy- he doesn't sound SPECIAL!!!! He doesn't say anything FUN!!! May as well be on NJ Transit! BRING BACK THE OLD VOICE, WDW!!!!

Next up, we went to the TS- all kids love, love, love this ride, and Sean is no different-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0290.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0292.jpg

After that, it was over to Toontown- we wanted to see the "houses" again before they're taken down.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0293.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0294.jpg

Which leads me to a big part of our day that I forgot to mention. It occured to me in the morning that Sean would eventually need to "use the facilities" during the course of the day...and I would, too. How were we going to manage that? Sean can go into the bathroom by himself at home or at school, but in a public place? I just don't think it's a good idea for him. Fortunately, although I had never noticed (or needed) them before, there are companion bathrooms located all over the parks- they were in DTD, and they were here, in MK. Thanks, Disney, for once again making our vacation just a little less stressful, and just a LOT more enjoyable! :goodvibes

Cont'd next post-

[podsnel]

We entered minnie's house, and for the first time EVER we actually looked around and touched stuff (the other MEN like to get through here as fast as possible, if they come in at ALL). Sean liked the livingroom, and had a seat on the couch-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0295.jpg

In the kitchen, he spotted her calendar- Sean is a big lover of calendars. He actually has some savant abilities, and one of those is an extraordinary ability to remember dates and the days they fall on. As in, if I ask him what day of the week I was born on in 1962, he will think a minute and say Thursday- which is absolutely correct! He can do this into the future as well, although there's a cutoff point where he refuses somewhere after 100 years. So when he sees a calendar, he always needs to stop and have a look!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0298.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0299.jpg

Then we went over to see Mickey's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0300.jpg

This reminds me of Big Murgie's Den in HHI (even though there's a pool table in BMD's, not ping-pong)-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0301.jpg

I thought we might go say hi to some characters, but even Sean has his limits, as you can see in this pic he was not all that jazzed about anymore of this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0302.jpg

I think we started to leave the park, but the parade was going on, and by the time we got to Main St, Sean was feeling better ( not that he was having a tantrum, or anything close to it, I think I was just being cautious), so we turned around and once again we were headed right down the middle (sort of) of Main St USA. :goodvibes

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0305.jpg

We spotted Jesse and Woody, and kind of walked along, keeping pace with them-

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And then my favorite princess, Cindy. Although I wish they would go the other way- a photo of them in front of the castle that shows their faces and not backs would be much, much nicer-

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Through the castle and into Fantasyland, where we rode on Winnie the Pooh and PP- he refused to go on SWSA, CGC, MP (I was really bummed about that one!) and, most emphatically, he did NOT want to ride on IASW!!! So, we walked over to Frontierland, and saw the new Princess and her show, which was REALLY, REALLY good-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0317.jpg

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Then Sean made a beeline for SM- not to ride it, but to watch it!! I guess he is so used to standing there waiting for his brothers and father to come down the mountain that he thinks it's a MUST-DO on every visit- even when they're not there!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0320.jpg

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Walking on towards Adventureland, we stopped at the Outpost for a much desired ff snack-

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I decided I'd like something too....something I had read about....something I had never tried before....a dole whip! It took me a little while to figure out where to go for it, but once I found it....I was in heaven!

Hey dole whip...where you been all my life??:love:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0324.jpg

While all this was going on, Pods called to say, "Where are you guys???" They had finished up golfing, got the rental car, and were waiting impatiently at Kidani for us. "What should we do? Where should we wait? How do I blow my nose?" Well, ok, maybe not that last one, but he was pretty much clueless as to what he should do without me...isn't it nice to be sooo needed? :faint: I told him where to go :rolleyes:.....
and that Sean and I were on our way to the bus. I guess we were having so much fun together enjoying the park that I let time slip away....that's ok- there's not enough of that in anyone's life.

Back at Kidani, we got the luggage from BS, threw it into the minivan, took one last look around....

I always love a good hole with a couple of trees through it!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0325.jpg

And said bye-bye to Kidani and WDW for the next 48 hours....

Up next..."Come to the DARK SIDE, Luke....."

[podsnel]

I'm so happy you and Sean had such a good time in DTD! He is doing so well! It's good that the other boys had fun too.




Thanks Tammie!! It was all going along so well at WDW....but there's a meltdown on the horizon....
:scared1: :scared1: :scared1:

Great Updates Ellen !!!

Thanks Rosie! :goodvibes

[karajeboo]

So Timmy's a leftie,huh? So is Jeff and it makes it so hard to buy him golf gifts! I always have to special order clubs and such.....

Looks like you and Sean had a very special time together!!!! That is so important!:thumbsup2

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

He actually has some savant abilities, and one of those is an extraordinary ability to remember dates and the days they fall on. As in, if I ask him what day of the week I was born on in 1962, he will think a minute and say Thursday- which is absolutely correct! He can do this into the future as well, although there's a cutoff point where he refuses somewhere after 100 years. So when he sees a calendar, he always needs to stop and have a look!


Hmm, what a useful skill to have!! I always have to look ahead on calendars to see what days of the week certain dates fall on.

(Have you ever taken him to AC? Hehe, J/K!!)


Walking on towards Adventureland, we stopped at the Outpost for a much desired ff snack-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0322.jpg





I love the look on his face when he is staring at those fries!


Oh, and in case you're wondering, the new "voice from above" STINKS!!! I hate this new guy- he doesn't sound SPECIAL!!!! He doesn't say anything FUN!!! May as well be on NJ Transit! BRING BACK THE OLD VOICE, WDW!!!!


SERIOUSLY!!

[CRdisMom]

how long before you left did you make the social story book?

Isn't it the greatest when you just get "lost" in the park. Did that with Beth on our last trip and she will tell you it was the best day of the vacation. I have a day planned for her and I and then one for Katie and I.

[Mysteria]

You got photobombed! I was just schooled by DH in the term. I was like...look at this stupid guy in Ellen's pic. He said...oh she got photobombed, that sucks. I looked at him like this...:confused: :rotfl:

100% agree about the TTA voice. If it ain't broke don't fix it!!

Happy to see it was more good times for you and Sean. :goodvibes I do see there is a meltdown coming up. Hope it wasn't too bad.

[MEK]

What a lovely time you and Sean had at the MK. You were able to do so much together. He looks like is having a fantastic time. He is smiling in every picture. It's so great that you were able to spend some mother - son time together. Lovely pictures.

I have always wondered what it would be like to go during the parade taping. I guess it keeps the ride lines in check.

OK - you are about to leave your bubble, so I am curious to hear all about it.

[podsnel]

So Timmy's a leftie,huh? So is Jeff and it makes it so hard to buy him golf gifts! I always have to special order clubs and such.....

Looks like you and Sean had a very special time together!!!! That is so important!:thumbsup2

Timmy does some things leftie, some things rightie-sports all seem to be leftie, but he writes rightie. He says he kicks rightie, too. I think it's a family gift from Pods- he's confusing, too. Pods golfs rightie and writes leftie. Confused yet??:confused3

Hmm, what a useful skill to have!! I always have to look ahead on calendars to see what days of the week certain dates fall on.

(Have you ever taken him to AC? Hehe, J/K!!)

I love the look on his face when he is staring at those fries!
SERIOUSLY!!

Oh, sure, we HAVE thought of taking him to AC....can't figure out how to make it work that way, though! Hey! You're a teacher! Do you want an afterschool job teaching him how to play blackjack and count cards? :rotfl:

And he does luuuuuuuuv those fries! :lovestruc

how long before you left did you make the social story book?

Isn't it the greatest when you just get "lost" in the park. Did that with Beth on our last trip and she will tell you it was the best day of the vacation. I have a day planned for her and I and then one for Katie and I.

I made the first day's pages about a month before we left. Then I added more every day. The part we reviewed the most was the first day, because I felt getting over the airport fear was the biggest hurdle. It would have, ideally, been better to have the whole book completed from the beginning, I guess, but I really wanted to get started on that airport stuff asap!

And you're right, it's very nice to get "lost" in WDW with just one of your kids. So happy you've got that all planned!! :hug:

You got photobombed! I was just schooled by DH in the term. I was like...look at this stupid guy in Ellen's pic. He said...oh she got photobombed, that sucks. I looked at him like this...:confused: :rotfl:

100% agree about the TTA voice. If it ain't broke don't fix it!!

Happy to see it was more good times for you and Sean. :goodvibes I do see there is a meltdown coming up. Hope it wasn't too bad.

PHotoBOMBED???? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: That's GREAT!! That's exactly what it is!!

And the meltdown....is coming soon.....:rolleyes1

What a lovely time you and Sean had at the MK. You were able to do so much together. He looks like is having a fantastic time. He is smiling in every picture. It's so great that you were able to spend some mother - son time together. Lovely pictures.

I have always wondered what it would be like to go during the parade taping. I guess it keeps the ride lines in check.

OK - you are about to leave your bubble, so I am curious to hear all about it.

You would have to ask Cammie about the parade taping- do you read her TRs? She hasn't been around very much, but she did start a TR of their last trip in Dec- she was lucky enough to get tickets to the re-scheduled parade day from another DISer who couldn't make the alternate date. Very cool- they were right of front for her daughters' favorite- The Jonas Brothers!!! How amazing is THAT!!

Bubble departure coming up sometime soon.....(sigh)......

[englishrose47]

Evening Ellen !!! Love the look on Seans face wit the"desired" snack!!!

[MAGICFOR2]

What a fun day with your boy! His choice of rides was interesting - I would have thought maybe no PP, but CGC would be okay. Maybe he doesn't like going in circles? DH won't ride Dumbo or CGC or teacups because of that.

Oh! OH! trouble in paradise coming?

BTW - I can't believe it's already almost time for your St. John trip - just what I need to read about now! :goodvibes

[areck]

What a fabulous time in the Magic Kingdom!
No matter what is going to happen during "bubble departure", you'll ALWAYS have this special day to remember.:hug:

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oh, sure, we HAVE thought of taking him to AC....can't figure out how to make it work that way, though! Hey! You're a teacher! Do you want an afterschool job teaching him how to play blackjack and count cards? :rotfl:


I could sure use the extra money! I would get a cut of the winnings, right? ;)

[UGAFan0829]

How awesome is it that you and Sean were having so much fun together that you lost track of time--that's good stuff right there!

As always, can't wait to read more!

[englishrose47]

Morning Ellen !!!

[karajeboo]

Good morning Rosie.....

[podsnel]

We were leaving the bubble and heading to HRH (Hard Rock Hotel) for two nights. We had decided 2 years ago that we would do this from now on, spend a couple of days at a Universal Hotel on every WDW vacation, probably on the weekend to save the points. We have visited Universal several times in the past, and always had fun- initially, we came here to go FOR Sean, because he has a GREAT love of DR. Seuss and Seuss Landing is(was) alot of fun for him. Last trip he wanted nothing to do with it, but we thought that was a fluke. Well. We pulled into the HRH, opened the van door....and Sean started to FREAK!! :scared1: Screaming, screaming, screaming. :sad2: He KNEW we were coming here, he never mentioned he didn't want to come to HRH, so we were taken aback. We tried to coax him out of the van, but he was having none of it. Eventually, we got him out, and inside the lobby where I went to check-in and Sean continued to freak. Horrible, horrible stuuf, this is the autism journey at the lowest point. ANd worse, we were at Universal instead of WDW. Not that they weren't as nice as could be, just that our comfort level there is not the same- KWIM? Well, we got him up to the room....where he continued to freak. It was about 7:30, so most people were not in their rooms (Thank-GOD!!) to wonder what the H was going on. We were able to calm him enough to go downstairs for our dinner ressie at The Kitchen, where....he stopped freaking out. :) Aaaaahhhhhh.......

We were seated in a little nook dedicated to Dee Snyder- apparently, one would think sitting at THIS table, a man who is a rock GOD! :rotfl: I had no idea there could even BE that much Twisted Sister memorabilia!! :rotfl: Anyway....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0025.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0026.jpg

Great news! The Kitchen has a HUGE martini menu!! And I think we're ready for about 10, please!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0027.jpg

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We explained that we were dining with the French Fry King, and within (literally) 2 minutes a giant serving of fries in a colander was placed in front of Sean. EXCELLENT!!!

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We ordered some apps- Crispy Calamari with a sweet thai dipping sauce (I think)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0032.jpg

And BBQ Shrimp and Cheesy Grits, which I could be very happy living on, OMG!!

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It was already time for another martini (yes, that's right, I said ANOTHER, it was THAT kind of a night). I wish I had a copy of their martini menu so I could tell you what these were- but I don't, so i can't. This one, however, had pop rocks....and although the photo looks icky, the drink was not-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0034.jpg

While we were waiting for our entrees, a magician was walking around to all the tables, entertaining the kids-

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0037.jpg

How cool is THAT? Then...dinner. I had Grilled Filet Mignon with roasted mushrooms, fingerling potatoes, spinach, bleu cheese butter anda red wine reduction-

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This was an exTREMELY substantial dish- very rich, very delicious, and very filling. I also had a glass of red wine- because we were not ignoring the alcohol food group tonight. Pods had ordered Open Chicken Ravioliwith ricotta, goat cheese, mushrooms, tomato and marsala butter-

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It was incredible!
One of Tyler's favorite meals is Chicken Pot Pie, so ordering that was a no-brainer for him-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0042.jpg

Timmy got the kids' grilled cheese-

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Chicken Pie- hats off!

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Cont'd next post-

[podsnel]

The boys were having fun together-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0046.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0047.jpg

Then it was time for dessert! Which we truly had no room for...but, alot of Universal restaurants offer dessert shots- and the Kitchen is one of them- so we ordered a couple. This one was S'mores-

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The other one we tried was a tiramisu one. They were both a bit sweet for me, but the others enjoyed sharing them.
And in the interest of good food porn, the waiter brought over the entire dessert tray to pose for a photo shoot!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0050.jpg

This was the new thing on the menu, some kind of stuffed with banana deep fried concoction that I would have pounded down if I had had any room!

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All the dessert shots in a row-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0053.jpg

What a great meal- I would go back to The Kitchen in a heartbeat...

We were pretty tired when dinner was done, so we headed back up to the room to go to bed. We had just gotten a standard double, with a cot. So it was a little tight in there. Me thinks that's what set Sean off again. Gone was his seperate space to decompress... he was going to have to sleep with all of us in the same room. Never underestimate the power of the DVC 1 BDRM villa- sometimes, size really DOES matter. Uh-oh.....so the screaming began again. And we were exhausted. I tried to calm him and coax him into the bed-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0055.jpg

But as you can see, he had his backpack on and CLEARLY had another accomodation in his head-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0056.jpg

He wasn't screaming anymore, but he wasn't giving in, either. That took a while. As in a couple of hours. He went and laid on the floor by the door to the room, and we all got into bed...and waited...and eventually he got up, ran over to the bed I was in, and got under the covers. Thankfully, after this night, there were no more meltdowns as bad as this- just a little defiance at Aunt Irma's. That was it. But at this point, all we could think was, we should have stayed at Kidani...what's going to happen in two days when we check into BLT....Oh crap, oh crap, oh crap!! We are the worst parents ever!! What were we thinking???

Oh! And does anyone want to know how comfy the COT was??? I'll have to ask PODS. Poor, poor, Pods...:rotfl:

[podsnel]

Evening Ellen !!! Love the look on Seans face wit the"desired" snack!!!

Hi Rosie! He was very satisfied with his day so far, I think, including the perfect snack at the perfect time! :goodvibes

What a fun day with your boy! His choice of rides was interesting - I would have thought maybe no PP, but CGC would be okay. Maybe he doesn't like going in circles? DH won't ride Dumbo or CGC or teacups because of that.

Oh! OH! trouble in paradise coming?

BTW - I can't believe it's already almost time for your St. John trip - just what I need to read about now! :goodvibes

He loves circles- the teacups are one of his all time favorites- he just remembers something in those rides he doesn't like. :confused3

And I can't wait for STJ!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

What a fabulous time in the Magic Kingdom!
No matter what is going to happen during "bubble departure", you'll ALWAYS have this special day to remember.:hug:

Thanks! I agree, a great day with Sean that I cherish. :cloud9:

I could sure use the extra money! I would get a cut of the winnings, right? ;)

Absolutely!! Just don't think I'm increasing your cut after you get your masters....;) :rotfl:

How awesome is it that you and Sean were having so much fun together that you lost track of time--that's good stuff right there!

As always, can't wait to read more!

Very, very good stuff! Thanks!

Morning Ellen !!!

Good morning Rosie.....

Good morning ladies! :cutie: :cutie:

[CRdisMom]

oh dear--im sorry to hear that he had a melt down. I can totally understand. I now know that we are going to stay off site. The thought of having a room just for Beth to decompress is toooooo valuable.

At Kidani--did you and Sean have the bedroom and the boys and Pods have the living room?

Dinner looks reallly good

[podsnel]

oh dear--im sorry to hear that he had a melt down. I can totally understand. I now know that we are going to stay off site. The thought of having a room just for Beth to decompress is toooooo valuable.

At Kidani--did you and Sean have the bedroom and the boys and Pods have the living room?

Dinner looks reallly good

Sean was fine in that HRH room after that first night- but I was very glad we were returning to the 1bdrm setup when the weekend was over- our kids are just too big now, it felt very "crunchy" in there. And Sean was much happier- if you think that's what Beth needs, then that's a very good thing to do for her!!

HAHA- it does seem like Sean & I were in the bedroom & Pods was out in the livingroom! It kind of was like that- but not planned that way. Sean was supposed to be on the pull-out chair (it was even written in the book, I had him point to his bed!! LOL!). But he went to the big bed. Pods doesn't like getting knocked around by a kid when he sleeps, so he left after trying it a couple of times and always ended up out in the livingroom with the boys- except when Timmy wanted to sleep in the King bed, too! And it was me they wanted in the bed with them, so that's why I got to sleep in the bed instead of Pods & I taking turns. What can i tell ya- I must be very loved by my sons! :cloud9: :rotfl:

[tinytreasures]

so sorry about the meltdowns
we had a few of those on our trip thankfully grandma was there to help us and having 4 bedrooms helped too :rotfl:

I am loving your report and you are giving me hope we should try going back one day:love:

[MEK]

You know Ellen - I was just thinking how well things were going for you after yesterday's update........:rolleyes1 I guess going out of the bubble was a little disruptive for Sean. Oh well....:confused3....I guess you couldn't really predict that for sure.

I hope he settles down and let's sleep kick in. It is really hard to go from a villa to a hotel room. I know how we felt in June. It doesn't matter how nice the room is.....the size difference is just so overwhelming and the contrast makes the hotel room actually feel smaller.

I hope Pods makes out OK on the cot. I think I'm definately seeing a 2BR villa in your family's future. Then Pods can get "first dibs" on the beds. :rotfl:

Anyho....yum, yum, yummy meal and martinis! :thumbsup2

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oh how sad. :sad1: And after you had such a wonderful day together. I guess you have to take the good with the bad. Many times you said how surprised and thrilled you were that he handled things so well. Obviously you know things never go according to plan. Sometimes things are worse but there were a lot of times that were better!

How were the other boys when all this was going on? There's one picture of Tyler at dinner where he looks like he's just had ENOUGH! (They are all so handsome, by the way!)



http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0055.jpg

But as you can see, he had his backpack on and CLEARLY had another accomodation in his head-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0056.jpg



Now what is that I see on the night stand? An after dinner drink to help calm your nerves?! :laughing:

I know it wasn't funny at the time, but I LOVE this picture of Sean. Like he's thinking so hard about how he can get you guys to leave (and go back to Disney!) Good thing someone had the foresight to take pictures, even during a meltdown! :thumbsup2

[podsnel]

so sorry about the meltdowns
we had a few of those on our trip thankfully grandma was there to help us and having 4 bedrooms helped too :rotfl:

I am loving your report and you are giving me hope we should try going back one day:love:

I'm sorry about your meltdowns, they are painful for everyone. But, oh...I hope you DO try again someday!! :hug: I know it is soooo scary, but I think it's always ggod to try- because if it does work out- well, there's just nothing better! Sean did have a rough time adjusting to HRH- but he was fine with it after this night, so it was all, without question, worth it. Please keep me posted!!:)

You know Ellen - I was just thinking how well things were going for you after yesterday's update........:rolleyes1 I guess going out of the bubble was a little disruptive for Sean. Oh well....:confused3....I guess you couldn't really predict that for sure.

I hope he settles down and let's sleep kick in. It is really hard to go from a villa to a hotel room. I know how we felt in June. It doesn't matter how nice the room is.....the size difference is just so overwhelming and the contrast makes the hotel room actually feel smaller.

I hope Pods makes out OK on the cot. I think I'm definately seeing a 2BR villa in your family's future. Then Pods can get "first dibs" on the beds. :rotfl:

Anyho....yum, yum, yummy meal and martinis! :thumbsup2

We have known him his whole life, and we always know SOMETHING is coming, but that doesn't neccessarily mean we know WHEN it is coming!! ;) He did, thankfully settle down when he got into bed with me, and slept soundly til morning, when he woke up his old happy self. :yay: And I agree- very hard to go from 1 bdrm to a hotel room. It was tough on ALL of us, and it was a pretty nice hotel room!! :rotfl:

Poor, poor Pods..:rotfl: He did sleep in the bed with timmy the next night- Tyler had the cot. :thumbsup2

Oh how sad. :sad1: And after you had such a wonderful day together. I guess you have to take the good with the bad. Many times you said how surprised and thrilled you were that he handled things so well. Obviously you know things never go according to plan. Sometimes things are worse but there were a lot of times that were better!

How were the other boys when all this was going on? There's one picture of Tyler at dinner where he looks like he's just had ENOUGH! (They are all so handsome, by the way!)

Now what is that I see on the night stand? An after dinner drink to help calm your nerves?! :laughing:

I know it wasn't funny at the time, but I LOVE this picture of Sean. Like he's thinking so hard about how he can get you guys to leave (and go back to Disney!) Good thing someone had the foresight to take pictures, even during a meltdown! :thumbsup2

The boys were really good and patient with him...Tyler makes a big effort to talk very calmly and slowly, and tries to encourage him to relax or try things he's afraid of. Timmy is very sweet with him, but Timmy's ears are very sensitive (he had a TON of ear infections when he was a baby) so if Sean screams, Timmy has his hands over his ears. Timmy is the one who acts as Sean's voice- if we do something he knows Sean doesn't like (like trying to make him talk, or asking him too many questions) Timmy is the one who pipes in "Don't do that- Sean doesn't like it". :grouphug: He was good at dinner- not a problem at all- so I think it's just a bad pic of Ty. But I do know what you mean.

And thanks, I think they're handsome, too. ;)

Yes, it's true! I had another glass of wine in the room!! Truth be told, I probably should have had about 40!! :rotfl:

And I am sure that is EXACTLY what Sean was thinking in that picture- "How do I get these IDIOTS to leave this room and go back where we belong??? Screaming didn't work, stamping my feet didn't work.... CRAP! I never shoulda gotten outta that car!" :rotfl: Pods took the pics (obviously it wasn't me) of which I remember thinking at the time...NOW is when you decide to get snap-happy??? NOW????? :rotfl:

Aaahhhhh....I'm sure anyone living this autism adventure will tell you...you HAVE TO be able to LAUGH...:)

[englishrose47]

ElenI was just at our Management Meeting today !! They were talking about looking at Day Programs to provide for Austistic Children after they complete School !!I think their will bemore info coming and will be on the lok out for anything that might be good for Sean!!!

[MAGICFOR2]

Wow! I'm so sorry your first evening with Sean was stressful. We used to travel for AAU basketball with a single dad who had a boy on the team, and a younger autistic son. I witnessed how something that didn't feel quite right would trigger a meltdown. It was really hard for them, and this boy was only 7. I can just imagine dealing with a big boy like Sean! I give you so much credit for how you understand his needs and calm him down - God blessed Sean with a very special family! :grouphug:

[karajeboo]

Ellen, I just LOVE your family!!!!! Sean seems just as sweet as can be. I'm guessing Tyler is the mischievous one.....;) And while all your kids are beautiful, there's just something about Timmy that makes me want to pinch his cheeks!!!! And Pods, poor poor patient Pods...... And of course I already know and love YOU!!!!

[podsnel]

ElenI was just at our Management Meeting today !! They were talking about looking at Day Programs to provide for Austistic Children after they complete School !!I think their will bemore info coming and will be on the lok out for anything that might be good for Sean!!!

For some reason the DIS is not allowing me to multi-quote this morning, so I'm going to answer one at a time-

Rosie!! That is so nice of you, thank-you very, very much. :hug: I think one of the hardest things having Sean or any autistic child is coping with his adulthood. It's very scary- and there are not NEARLY enough services to accomodate the flood of autistic adults that is about to hit society. It's an epidemic. So anything you learn and would like to pass on, I would be very grateful for. Thanks, sweetie!

[podsnel]

Wow! I'm so sorry your first evening with Sean was stressful. We used to travel for AAU basketball with a single dad who had a boy on the team, and a younger autistic son. I witnessed how something that didn't feel quite right would trigger a meltdown. It was really hard for them, and this boy was only 7. I can just imagine dealing with a big boy like Sean! I give you so much credit for how you understand his needs and calm him down - God blessed Sean with a very special family! :grouphug:

Wow- I give that parent alot of credit for having the one kid playing travel and the autistic 7 yr old going along- that would be incredibly difficult and stressful. You know both our boys play travel baseball- if we didn't have Sheree & Henry, and other very wonderful babysitters able to help us, it would be a disaster. I can count on one hand how many games (baseball or other) he has been to out of neccessity- and it's been very challenging. For basketball, especially, the noise in a gym is sooooo overwhelming and over-stimulating!! On a baseball field or soccer field, he runs around- so there's always the threat of him running out into the game. :sad2: I do miss alot of their games, Pods always goes, but for baseball the games overlap and are in 2 different directions, so we thank-GOD for our sitters!

And thank-you for the kind words about our family. :hug:

[podsnel]

Ellen, I just LOVE your family!!!!! Sean seems just as sweet as can be. I'm guessing Tyler is the mischievous one.....;) And while all your kids are beautiful, there's just something about Timmy that makes me want to pinch his cheeks!!!! And Pods, poor poor patient Pods...... And of course I already know and love YOU!!!!

Well, thanks so much, Miss Kara!! I think your family is pretty darn wonderful, too!! :goodvibes You have got them all pegged- Sean is very sweet, very affectionate (to me and Pods). He really and truly wants to please us- even with things he'd rather not do. Tyler is, well, not truly mischevious, he's more of a classclown type. Which is michevious, I guess. He will do anything...ANYTHING...for a laugh. I keep waiting for the day I have to run him to the emergency room to pull out the quarters someone dared him to shove up his nose!! :rotfl: THAT'S what Tyler is like.

And it's funny you said that about Timmy- when he was a baby, I always had this urge to bite his cheeks- I just wanted to gobble him up- he was just so cute!! :rotfl: He is the one who loves me to pieces, and he is very goofy- like Tyler, funny, but goofier! And he HATES to see anyone picked on- he gets soooooo upset if someone is getting picked on, or is getting yelled at. He has a very big heart. I think he looks the most like Pods- well, that's what people tell me (including my MIL) but it's hard for me to see- I'll have to post a picture of little Pods and you can judge!

And poor, poor Pods does more good deeds than most of the men I know-tooooooooo much volunteering!! :rotfl2: He also washes the dishes- after parties, my girlfriends all line up to watch- they think he is the sexiest man alive!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Love you too, Kara!! :hug:

Ok- don't know if I'll be updating in the next day or 2, we're having a dinner party tomorrow night- NYE that was cancelled because I was sick! TTFN!:hippie:

[englishrose47]

For some reason the DIS is not allowing me to multi-quote this morning, so I'm going to answer one at a time-

Rosie!! That is so nice of you, thank-you very, very much. :hug: I think one of the hardest things having Sean or any autistic child is coping with his adulthood. It's very scary- and there are not NEARLY enough services to accomodate the flood of autistic adults that is about to hit society. It's an epidemic. So anything you learn and would like to pass on, I would be very grateful for. Thanks, sweetie!

As soon as my Director mentioned it I thought of you and Sean!!! When I hear anything of interest I will pass it on!!:hug:
I know the agency I work for has PRE VOC which is a sheltered workshop!! But I don't think they are geared towards Autism !!!So it is nice to hear that it is on their minds !!!:)

[Jenny-Bell]

Hi, I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed reading about your trip.
I have two boys (5 and 3) and my 5 year old is Autistic, so I completely get the picky eating and melt downs. Since mine is only 5 right now, it was nice to hear a story about someone older and how well it worked.

We took our kids to Disney for the first time in July 2009 and they loved it. Christopher is attached to pizza and pb&j, BUT the pb&j has to be creamy peanut butter, strawberry jelly and regular white bread, not the un-crustables, and it has to be cut in half, not triangles and not missing the crust.
Pizza has to be cheese only, and he is very particular on how it must look.
He is constantly carrying around a toy, normally something that lights up (so, of course he gets sucked into those carts around the parks at night).

Thanks so much for sharing! We are going again the first week of February! So excited!

Oh...is AKL your home resort for DVC? We want to stay there so bad, I'm sure the kids would love it! Have been thinking about getting DVC, not 100% sure yet though!!

Anyways, thanks again! I really loved reading about it, kind of wondering how the rest of the trip went though?
Take care!
Jenny

[tinytreasures]

I'm sorry about your meltdowns, they are painful for everyone. But, oh...I hope you DO try again someday!! :hug: I know it is soooo scary, but I think it's always ggod to try- because if it does work out- well, there's just nothing better! Sean did have a rough time adjusting to HRH- but he was fine with it after this night, so it was all, without question, worth it. Please keep me posted!!:)



we plan to go back (we have 2 more kids that can gets wishes down the road :wizard:)
Avy has already said her wish is to go back to Give Kids the World :lovestruc
next time we will be better off since both boys are now on the right meds and life if so much better here everyday ;)
we are waiting for everyone to get a little older to go back again :rolleyes1

[podsnel]

The morning came...and Sean woke up, his usual happy, noisy, laughing self! :thumbsup2 What a relief, to have Happy-Sean back!! So we were going to go ahead as originally planned- get our great big 'ol butts outta bed and spend a 1/2 day in Universal, come back to HRH for lunch and swimming at the pool, then drive out to see Aunt Irma for dinner. From HRH, you can either walk to the parks or take a boat. Pods wanted to take the boat, so that's what we did.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0057.jpg

Look who's happy!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0058.jpg

The new coaster,Rip Ride Rockit!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0059.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0060.jpg

Arriving at the park, crowds seemed to be pretty minimal. We had a pass because we were staying on-site that allowed us to get into the "fast pass" line, all we had to do was show our room keys. However, we have always had a pass like this when we have come here because of Sean- Universal offers their equivalent of a GAC which serves the same purpose. There are a couple of rides Sean will always go on here, and thankfully, that had not changed. We rode Jimmy Neutron & Shrek 4-D. Both are some of my favorite rides EVER!! They combine 3-D with special effects (like Mickey's Philharmagic) but take it one step further because the seats themselves move. It's really a lot of fun, and you totally walk out of both thinking How do they do that? :goodvibes The wait time for RRR was nearly 2 HOURS, and there are no passes allowed on this ride!!!! :scared1: Which is really sayin' something, because the park was soooo empty. I guess it was empty because everyone was on line for RRR! :rotfl: Tyler & Pods were really anxious to try it- I told them their best bet was to try to be at "rope drop" or whatever it's called here and run right for it.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0062.jpg

We walked on...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0064.jpg

Because we couldn't wait to hit the Simpson's Ride which was on the opposite side. It had opened between our last visit and this one, and we were REALLY looking forward to it! But before we even got there, we spotted...The Simpsons!! With a line of TWO PEOPLE!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0066.jpg

I love that picture! Timmy had something to say to Bart-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0067.jpg

After that, we walked over to ride The Simpsons! Sadly, Sean wouldn't go on, so Pods waited with him outside.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0069.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0070.jpg

That ride was INCREDIBLE!!!! Totally worth the wait (which was about 20 minutes). Then Tyler was dying to get Timmy to ride the Mummy, which Timmy was feeling a little apprehensive about- but they talked him into it! Sean and I waited outside, Sean running around in the "park" in "NY" across the street.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0073.jpg

We had only planned to stay in the park til lunchtime, because we really wanted to have lunch and go for a swim in the HRH pool.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0075.jpg

This time, we walked back. The landscaping is very pretty!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0076.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0077.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0078.jpg

A nice clean room!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0079.jpg

Soon we were on our way to the beachclub for lunch....and some of the world's BIGGEST & BEST nachos!!:thumbsup2

[CRdisMom]

wow from that perspective you can see how small the room was. Yikes all 5 of you fit in there?

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

It's so weird seeing pictures of Universal. I haven't been there since 1999 and only then it was because I went with my high school choir and that was just what the itinerary was. A group of us spent most of that day in "Finnigans" listening to the keyboard player and snacking on aps! Not even sure that place is still there, I'm sure the parks is completely different. IOA wasn't even opened yet.

Do you get that same "feeling" that you get in WDW? I bet not but I guess it's fun to try new things. My theory is always that my park days are already paid for. (We have APs but even if we got MYW tickets, do have one less day only saves us, what, $5?) I can't justify leaving a place I KNOW I'm going to have a godo time at AND I already paid for to go somewhere unfamiliar and spend more money! That will have to change when they open The Wizarding World of Harry Potter though! I'm just going to have to suck it up because we are NOT missing that!

[MEK]

Ellen -

Can I just tell you that this update made me really want to go back to Universal Studios. I have about 7 Disney trips (possibly more) since I've been there. I think the last time was when Nick was entering 4th grade. :sad2: It really is a fun place. I think the problem is, its basically a two ( or three at the max) day park. And its not Disney. And you can tell the difference, which makes is feel wierd.

I stayed at Royal Pacific and I do remember how lovely the walk was. I also remember running over to HRH and Portofino in the morning and how pretty it was there. They yelled at me for running through City Walk. Apparently that is a rule - even at 7:30am - NO RUNNING! What a drag. Anyway, I'm not so sure about the Rip, Ride, Rocket or whatever its called, but I do enjoy all the other coasters at IOA and I heard the Simpson's ride is great.

Great update. So glad that Sean is getting into the grove!

[podsnel]

wow from that perspective you can see how small the room was. Yikes all 5 of you fit in there?

Yep! Pods' special bed was under the window! :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I am having trouble multi-quoting again, so back to one at a time!:confused:

[podsnel]

we plan to go back (we have 2 more kids that can gets wishes down the road :wizard:)
Avy has already said her wish is to go back to Give Kids the World :lovestruc
next time we will be better off since both boys are now on the right meds and life if so much better here everyday ;)
we are waiting for everyone to get a little older to go back again :rolleyes1

So, so glad to hear you say that!! :yay: What happens at Give Kids the World for Avy?? I have to say, I just started your PTR for Jason's wish- WOW!!! :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: You are an INCREDIBLE FAMILY!!!! :hug: So happy that the boys are getting the right medicine- what a weight off of your shoulders!!

I'm really looking forward to reading your links!:goodvibes

[podsnel]

It's so weird seeing pictures of Universal. I haven't been there since 1999 and only then it was because I went with my high school choir and that was just what the itinerary was. A group of us spent most of that day in "Finnigans" listening to the keyboard player and snacking on aps! Not even sure that place is still there, I'm sure the parks is completely different. IOA wasn't even opened yet.

Do you get that same "feeling" that you get in WDW? I bet not but I guess it's fun to try new things. My theory is always that my park days are already paid for. (We have APs but even if we got MYW tickets, do have one less day only saves us, what, $5?) I can't justify leaving a place I KNOW I'm going to have a godo time at AND I already paid for to go somewhere unfamiliar and spend more money! That will have to change when they open The Wizarding World of Harry Potter though! I'm just going to have to suck it up because we are NOT missing that!

i don't know about Finnegan's, but there's a Pat O'Brien's. Maybe that was once Finnegans? :confused3 I think they have changed a LOT since you were last there!!

No- I do not get that "feeling"- I'm guessing you mean the one where you are tingly-giggly-happy from head to toe? :rotfl: - in Universal. But it IS nice. And it IS fun. And beautiful. And the employees are very helpful. And the rides are really, really great- very different from Disney. There is some theming on some of the rides. I have not even gotten to IOA yet with you, and the Spiderman ride is without a doubt one of the best rides I've ever been on. And it has GREAT theming. The $99/week deal is fantastic, too. You should buy your tickets at that price now, if you can, to save them for when Harry opens, if you're dying to go. And when you're there, and you're stressed 'cuz it's new...just keep singing to yourself-

"Make new friends, but keep the old...one is silver and the other gold!"

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

The hardest part of the whole thing, when you're Disgeeks like us, is getting over the, "But I'm sooooooo close! WDW is riiiiiiiiight there!" problem!;)

[podsnel]

Ellen -

Can I just tell you that this update made me really want to go back to Universal Studios. I have about 7 Disney trips (possibly more) since I've been there. I think the last time was when Nick was entering 4th grade. :sad2: It really is a fun place. I think the problem is, its basically a two ( or three at the max) day park. And its not Disney. And you can tell the difference, which makes is feel wierd.

I stayed at Royal Pacific and I do remember how lovely the walk was. I also remember running over to HRH and Portofino in the morning and how pretty it was there. They yelled at me for running through City Walk. Apparently that is a rule - even at 7:30am - NO RUNNING! What a drag. Anyway, I'm not so sure about the Rip, Ride, Rocket or whatever its called, but I do enjoy all the other coasters at IOA and I heard the Simpson's ride is great.

Great update. So glad that Sean is getting into the grove!

No, it's not Disney. Sometimes I wish it was somewhere else- it's own destination- maybe I would be more excited about going! I do like it while I'm there- I just hate being in Orlando and NOT being in WDW!!!!

It's really a DISease, isn't it awful??? :rotfl2:

Ok- NO RUNNING at Citywalk- and NO BIKING at DTD! See? Big Brother is watching everywhere!! :rotfl:

[MEK]

It's really a DISease, isn't it awful??? :rotfl2:



It is a DISease and I've Got it.....BAD!

[Mysteria]

Sorry about the meltdown. Your younger two seem to handle it so well. You should be a very proud mama for the great job you do with all of them! :goodvibes

No FoL for RRR even for onsite guests?! :eek: I'll bet that's caused them some grief. It was quite finished last time we were there. Hopefully by the time we go back the lines won't be as long.

eta: That should have read wasn't quite finished. :laughing:

[podsnel]

It is a DISease and I've Got it.....BAD!

I Know! That's why we're HERE!!! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

[podsnel]

Sorry about the meltdown. Your younger two seem to handle it so well. You should be a very proud mama for the great job you do with all of them! :goodvibes

No FoL for RRR even for onsite guests?! :eek: I'll bet that's caused them some grief. It was quite finished last time we were there. Hopefully by the time we go back the lines won't be as long.

I think they're kind of used to it- they're probably the calmest ones in the room when it's going on!! Thanks for the proud mama thing, but not so today- they were having their OWN meltdowns today- UGH!!!:faint:

Yea- no FoL for anyone- only tippee top VIPs, from what I hear from a friend....who can name herself if she wants to! :rolleyes1

[Mysteria]

I think they're kind of used to it- they're probably the calmest ones in the room when it's going on!! Thanks for the proud mama thing, but not so today- they were having their OWN meltdowns today- UGH!!!:faint:

Yea- no FoL for anyone- only tippee top VIPs, from what I hear from a friend....who can name herself if she wants to! :rolleyes1

No kid (or most adults for that matter) won't have a meltdown now and then. Hope it's all calm now. :hug:

Hmmm interesting. I wonder if they've done that for any other big openings.

[preschoolmom]

Hi, I found your trip report tonight, and I read the whole thing! :thumbsup2 I'm really enjoying it. From the highs, to the lows (that meltdown, I can just totally imagine being there - maybe because mine did that in AK on our trip).

Anyway - It's just the perfect mix of happy, stress, alcohol, pictures, and thanks for sharing it all!

[karajeboo]

I think The Simpsons is THE greatest theme park ride anywhere! The Mummy? Not worth the hype IMHO - but still okay!

[englishrose47]

I think The Simpsons is THE greatest theme park ride anywhere! The Mummy? Not worth the hype IMHO - but still okay!


Are there any drops on the Simpsons ride ???:confused3

Ellen great update as usual!!!

[podsnel]

No kid (or most adults for that matter) won't have a meltdown now and then. Hope it's all calm now. :hug:

Hmmm interesting. I wonder if they've done that for any other big openings.

Not a clue, sorry!

Hi, I found your trip report tonight, and I read the whole thing! :thumbsup2 I'm really enjoying it. From the highs, to the lows (that meltdown, I can just totally imagine being there - maybe because mine did that in AK on our trip).

Anyway - It's just the perfect mix of happy, stress, alcohol, pictures, and thanks for sharing it all!

Hi preschoolmom!! Thanks for joining in and saying hello!! OMG- an AK meltdown....so sorry. We had one of those 2 years ago- Sean would NOT go on KS! :confused3 I mean, what's the big deal- it's a car ride with elephants, right? He threw himself on the ground and SCREAMED bloody murder. UGH. There were actually kids in line pointing at him laughing. Disgusting. If I hadn't had my hands so full with trying to calm Sean and get him out of the line, I would have pulled a Kara and opened a big 'ol can of NJ Whoop A$$ on 'em!! :scared1: Seriously- are the parents even participating in their kids upbringing in that situation?? It's horrible!

Anyway, sorry for the rant- glad you like the TR! :goodvibes

I think The Simpsons is THE greatest theme park ride anywhere! The Mummy? Not worth the hype IMHO - but still okay!

I went on Mummy last time- I agree, not worth the hype! That's why I was good with them all riding and me waiting with Sean.

Are there any drops on the Simpsons ride ???:confused3

Ellen great update as usual!!!

No drops- you're in a car in front of a screen. The car lifts up (it's a rollercoaster car) but the ride is simulated- so it feels like you're on a rollercoaster, with Homer- but you're not. It used to be the Back to the Future ride. It's a blast!!! Universal has alot of rides like this- simulated, special effects kind of experiences. So cool!!:thumbsup2

[Mysteria]

Just beware of motion sickness on The Simpsons ride if you aren't good on motion simulators.

[MAGICFOR2]

Wow- I give that parent alot of credit for having the one kid playing travel and the autistic 7 yr old going along- that would be incredibly difficult and stressful. You know both our boys play travel baseball- if we didn't have Sheree & Henry, and other very wonderful babysitters able to help us, it would be a disaster. I can count on one hand how many games (baseball or other) he has been to out of neccessity- and it's been very challenging. For basketball, especially, the noise in a gym is sooooo overwhelming and over-stimulating!! On a baseball field or soccer field, he runs around- so there's always the threat of him running out into the game. :sad2: I do miss alot of their games, Pods always goes, but for baseball the games overlap and are in 2 different directions, so we thank-GOD for our sitters!

And thank-you for the kind words about our family. :hug:

You know, I never thought about the noise at the game - little John maybe likes noise - he loves the AF Jets, and will ride his bike down to the fence by the runway now that he's older and just sit and watch the jets take off - Yikes - he probably should have ear plugs! :scared1: And he has a little fisher price tape recorder and he records the jets and then plays them back sometimes for comfort.

And - you're welcome! :hug:

[MAGICFOR2]

Not a clue, sorry!



Hi preschoolmom!! Thanks for joining in and saying hello!! OMG- an AK meltdown....so sorry. We had one of those 2 years ago- Sean would NOT go on KS! :confused3 I mean, what's the big deal- it's a car ride with elephants, right? He threw himself on the ground and SCREAMED bloody murder. UGH. There were actually kids in line pointing at him laughing. Disgusting. If I hadn't had my hands so full with trying to calm Sean and get him out of the line, I would have pulled a Kara and opened a big 'ol can of NJ Whoop A$$ on 'em!! :scared1: Seriously- are the parents even participating in their kids upbringing in that situation?? It's horrible!

Anyway, sorry for the rant- glad you like the TR! :goodvibes



I went on Mummy last time- I agree, not worth the hype! That's why I was good with them all riding and me waiting with Sean.



No drops- you're in a car in front of a screen. The car lifts up (it's a rollercoaster car) but the ride is simulated- so it feels like you're on a rollercoaster, with Homer- but you're not. It used to be the Back to the Future ride. It's a blast!!! Universal has alot of rides like this- simulated, special effects kind of experiences. So cool!!:thumbsup2

I loved back to the Future! I really miss it. :sad2:

[podsnel]

Yesterday we did our community service for the new Disney promo. Our local JCC (Jewish Community Center) was running a day of service in honor of Martin Luther King. 500 people showed up to volunteer (although not all were registered with Disney), and we were among them. It was actually a lot of fun, and educational as well. We just had to sign up with Disney by 10 am the day before, after signing up with the Hand on Network, which was the organization running the program. The only thing that makes me a little nervous is that (of course) the Disney website wouldn't let me put in my age as head volunteer, and it wouldn't take us doing one of the activities unless Pods was included with us- even though he did something else. The local running the program assured me this would be ok (and tried to tell me how screwy they thought Disney's website was to deal with- I just laughed).:lmao: Anyway, after an opening ceremony, we were all off to do whatever it was we were doing.

I was surprised to learn that it was not a whole day we would have to give- it was actually just however long our qualifying activity lasted- and we only had to do one to get the free day. So, while Pods took the kids home (because they were doing something later in the day) I stayed at the center and interviewed 2 senior citizens- one, an elderly man with some funny stories to tell, the other, and elderly woman who recounted the Japanese invasion of the Phillipines (where she lived) during WWII. Very interesting listening to both of them! It lasted about 1 1/2 hours.

At 1:00, T&T& I were signed up to clear a path at the local nature center- for an hour we lugged wood chips and the boys (along with many other kids) spread the woodchips on the path. We were all so happy it was such a beautiful day here, it was great to be outside!! Here are a couple of pics-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2010_011806summer0057.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2010_011806summer0058.jpg

We made it to the end!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2010_011806summer0059.jpg

Pods was working yesterday, and fortunately there was even something for him to do in the town he works in- at 5:30 he went to a local church there and made sandwiches for a 1/2 an hour. The sandwiches are then distributed in a nearby town to needy people who are very, very appreciative. (This is something that is done every week, but Pods was just a part of it this one day for the qualification).

Anyway, I thought I'd share the story with you because I'm sure there are people wondering what kinds of things are done for the day of service. They say we will get vouchers to hand in within a couple of weeks. The $ value is $79, and can be applied to new APs or upgraded to parkhoppers or whatever (at our cost). Pretty good, huh? :goodvibes I love this promotion of Disney's- it is such a great idea. :thumbsup2

[MEK]

So great that you were able to complete your community service. I just can't bring myself to sign up for anything because I am always volunteering for things on my own. Unfortunately, none of them qualify. Maybe I should check the list again and see if I can find something I want to do. The only option was a hospital for the chronically ill. I see enough of that in my real job!

[mom2shayleeandlogan]

Sounds like you had a great day!

[podsnel]

We headed down to the pool for lunch. Timmy was being....a bit of a challenge since getting off that Mummy ride. See, I think he really did NOT want to ride, and once he did ride, he was scared....and extremely cranky. Which is what Timmy does when he is scared...and very hungry. He is a kid who is the very best day you've ever had, and the very worst day you've ever had! :rotfl: Fortunately we knew that his WORST day personna is usually due to a lack of food, so we had high hopes he would be back to his old self soon....

feel the joy of all that is cranky tim....
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0087.jpg

I invited rita to lunch....hellooooooooooooooo Rita!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0081.jpg

And can I just say, that was one fine Rita!! Perfectly tart and yummy. Tyler had a smoothie-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0082.jpg

And Sean got his fries almost before we sat down!! Look at how HUGE they are!! Love that about Universal- when they bring out "And he'll have fries- lots and lots of fries" they really deliver!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0084.jpg

Crazy Tyler demonstrates his love of limes-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0085.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0086.jpg

And Timmy continues to do his thing....

I am miserable, and I will not quit until you are all miserable with me!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0088.jpg

I kid you not- literally 2 french fries later-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0089.jpg

Now, I knew what I was having even without looking at the menu- all because of the Universal food porn thread on the DIS. I mean, how could I be within snarfing distance of this lovely, humongous creation, and NOT partake?? I give you the WORLD'S most GIANT nachos!! :worship:

Holy Jalepeno, Batman!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0090-1.jpg

Are they beautiful, or what?? Pods had a burger-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0091.jpg

T&T both had chicken fingers-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0092.jpg

The squirrel had a few fries-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0093.jpg

Seriously- this squirrel was like a begging dog at the table!! He would grab a fry (dropped by one of the kids) then run under a bush, then run back out to beg at the table. Very funny. Lunch was really good- I would go back JUST for that Rita and those nachos anytime!!! Yum!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0107.jpg

Next up- hangin' in the coolest pool, and do they play any games with the kids there? Does a bear sh....oops, sorry! See you later! :rotfl:

[karajeboo]

No drops- you're in a car in front of a screen. The car lifts up (it's a rollercoaster car) but the ride is simulated- so it feels like you're on a rollercoaster, with Homer- but you're not. It used to be the Back to the Future ride. It's a blast!!! Universal has alot of rides like this- simulated, special effects kind of experiences. So cool!!:thumbsup2

For the Simpsons, imagine Soarin meets Star Tours.... on steroids!!!! Super cool ride!!! And I really FELT like I was moving... way more than ST or Soarin.... I even screamed a couple of times!!!

Great update Ellen, and even cranky Timmy is still adorable!!!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oh you had a PERFECT day for your GAD!

Omg, Timmy's face is soooo funny!

Hi 'Rita! :wave2: I'm very good friends with her, you know.

Those nachos look heavenly!!! I would love to have them in front of my right now!!

[praisehisname]

Stupid real life, getting in the way of my DISing...:sad2:

The thing about Sanaa that scares me is the spicyness. I don't do well with hot (spicy) food. :confused3


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0234-1.jpg

Mmmm...I haven't tried that one yet, but it sure does look good!

You and Sean had a great time in DTD and MK; you couldn't have asked for a better shopping companion! :thumbsup2 Looks like the rest of the boys had fun golfing, too!


Sean and I walked over to the MK from the Contemporary bus stop and within minutes we were "walkin right down the middle of main st usa"...anyone else have this video tape? :goodvibes

We do! I miss when the kids would play it non-stop. Maybe I'll go look for it later...:rolleyes1


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0324.jpg

I've only had it as a float, but that looks yummy!


While all this was going on, Pods called to say, "Where are you guys???" They had finished up golfing, got the rental car, and were waiting impatiently at Kidani for us. "What should we do? Where should we wait? How do I blow my nose?" Well, ok, maybe not that last one, but he was pretty much clueless as to what he should do without me...

:lmao: :rotfl2:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0034.jpg

Interesting...did the pop rocks pop in your mouth?


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0050.jpg

Drool...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0090-1.jpg

I want some NOW!!!

Awesome updates!

[tinytreasures]

yum that hamburger looks good :thumbsup2

[MEK]

Still at work. Still no pics for me! :sad2:

[Mysteria]

Love the food porn! That miserable face is priceless. :laughing:

[areck]

I can feel Timmy's pain. I get super hungry like that also. 'Sorta sneaks up on you before you have a chance to silence the hunger. By that point it is too late to think rationally. I will devour anything I can get my hands on first! The problem is I'm a Weight Watcher and I should know the signs by now. :confused3 French fries, for whatever reason, are instantly soothing.


Great job helping to make New Jersey a nicer place to live!
My daughter and I are taking part in Disney's Give a Day, Get a Day. There are not too many opportunities near me, but she lives in Jersey City and there are numerous choices. I have to get moving on that soon. I read someone's post (can't remember who) who said there were close to 7 million requests to help and Disney is only issuing 1 million vouchers. I don't know for sure if that's correct.

[podsnel]

For the Simpsons, imagine Soarin meets Star Tours.... on steroids!!!! Super cool ride!!! And I really FELT like I was moving... way more than ST or Soarin.... I even screamed a couple of times!!!

Great update Ellen, and even cranky Timmy is still adorable!!!

I think I may have screamed once or twice myself! :laughing: It's a lot of fun. And I don't think you would have found Timmy all that adorable if you had been sitting with us. :rolleyes1 :headache:

Oh you had a PERFECT day for your GAD!

Omg, Timmy's face is soooo funny!

Hi 'Rita! :wave2: I'm very good friends with her, you know.

Those nachos look heavenly!!! I would love to have them in front of my right now!!

I know, we were so lucky with the weather- it was sunny, very little if any breeze, and in the high 40's- just like a summer day!! :rotfl:

Timmy's face may have been funny- I can assure you, he was not. :sad2:

Yes, Rita had PLENTY to say about YOU and you fiesta together...:rolleyes1

I figured you would like them, being that your favorite restaurant is mexican. You would have devoured them, I can promise you, Nikki! :goodvibes

Stupid real life, getting in the way of my DISing...:sad2:

The thing about Sanaa that scares me is the spicyness. I don't do well with hot (spicy) food. :confused3




Mmmm...I haven't tried that one yet, but it sure does look good!

You and Sean had a great time in DTD and MK; you couldn't have asked for a better shopping companion! :thumbsup2 Looks like the rest of the boys had fun golfing, too!




We do! I miss when the kids would play it non-stop. Maybe I'll go look for it later...:rolleyes1




I've only had it as a float, but that looks yummy!




:lmao: :rotfl2:



Interesting...did the pop rocks pop in your mouth?




Drool...



I want some NOW!!!

Awesome updates!

Well, welcome back! Everything ok? Just crazy busy, I hope! I have to say, that everything at Sanaa is not spicy, I just choose that stuff because I like spice. The server can definitely point out what is NOT spicy should you ever end up there. The pop rocks didn't pop- they just kind of were in the drink, which was weird...maybe they were a bad batch? At Fultons they were like fireworks!! Glad you're back! :goodvibes

yum that hamburger looks good :thumbsup2

It was a good burger- not the world's greatest burger, but good. They had very generous portions at all the restaurants we tried at Universal, from what I can remember!

Still at work. Still no pics for me! :sad2:

Oh no!! Stupid work computer!!

Love the food porn! That miserable face is priceless. :laughing:

Yes, priceless...but not painless...
:sad2:

I can feel Timmy's pain. I get super hungry like that also. 'Sorta sneaks up on you before you have a chance to silence the hunger. By that point it is too late to think rationally. I will devour anything I can get my hands on first! The problem is I'm a Weight Watcher and I should know the signs by now. :confused3 French fries, for whatever reason, are instantly soothing.


Great job helping to make New Jersey a nicer place to live!
My daughter and I are taking part in Disney's Give a Day, Get a Day. There are not too many opportunities near me, but she lives in Jersey City and there are numerous choices. I have to get moving on that soon. I read someone's post (can't remember who) who said there were close to 7 million requests to help and Disney is only issuing 1 million vouchers. I don't know for sure if that's correct.

Oh, I really hope that is not right! It's only January!! At the things we took part in, not all of the people signed up were doing the Disney thing (which I thought was kind of silly since they could donate it and do a double good-deed). Well, I will post when I get our vouchers- they said it would take 2 or 3 weeks. :yay:

[podsnel]

OOPS!! I missed a bunch-

Just beware of motion sickness on The Simpsons ride if you aren't good on motion simulators.

Yes- absolutely. Good point!

You know, I never thought about the noise at the game - little John maybe likes noise - he loves the AF Jets, and will ride his bike down to the fence by the runway now that he's older and just sit and watch the jets take off - Yikes - he probably should have ear plugs! :scared1: And he has a little fisher price tape recorder and he records the jets and then plays them back sometimes for comfort.

And - you're welcome! :hug:


Maybe his hearing isn't hyper-sensitive like Sean's is. That would make it a LOT easier to do all those things. Kind of like some autistic people don't feel pain the way the rest of us do. :confused3

I loved back to the Future! I really miss it. :sad2:

We were big fans of those movies- watched them over and over...I'll miss the ride, too, but the Simpson's ride is even better, I think. :thumbsup2

So great that you were able to complete your community service. I just can't bring myself to sign up for anything because I am always volunteering for things on my own. Unfortunately, none of them qualify. Maybe I should check the list again and see if I can find something I want to do. The only option was a hospital for the chronically ill. I see enough of that in my real job!

I felt like that, too, when they initially came out with the program. I volunteer plenty on my own, and of course none of it qualifies!! But $79pp is nothing to sneeze at towards admission. :thumbsup2

Sounds like you had a great day!

It was good! Thanks! :goodvibes

[MEK]

Still haven't seen your pics. The only TR I had time to look at this am was Christine's. I am starting to go into withdraw! ugggghhhhhh!

[podsnel]

Still haven't seen your pics. The only TR I had time to look at this am was Christine's. I am starting to go into withdraw! ugggghhhhhh!

:rotfl:

[podsnel]

The boys were very anxious to check everything out at the pool. If you have never been to HRH before, you will be interested to know that there is music EVERYWHERE- even in the pool itself! How cool is that? :cool1: All the music is classic rock- which actually surprised me, I thought they would mix it up a little, but oh well. Anyway, while T&T& Pods went for a swim, I went exploring with Sean. He was VERY busy checking the place out, it felt like we were running a marathon!! :rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0097.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0099.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0106.jpg

Sean decided to look around over at the volleyball court-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0108.jpg

The paths that go up to the slide kind of zig zag and criss cross- making it LOADS of fun trying to keep an eye on Sean. :scared1:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0109.jpg

Every once in a while I'd lose track of him....fortunately I kept bumping into him. But he was very happy roaming around, so all was good!

He went down to the pool-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0111.jpg

The DJ had kids doing all kinds of things at the pool- even hula hoop contests-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0112.jpg

My favorite part of the afternoon, when Sean SAT DOWN!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0113.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0114.jpg

HRH is a very nice resort- both Pods & I agreed it would be an excellent place to come with a group for an adult getaway. Not that it was bad for kids- it was GREAT for kids- just....not very magical. I guess that's the difference between them. A lack of pixie dust. Anyway, we decided it was time to go- we had to hit the road and go visit Aunt Irma! :goodvibes

[OhMari]

Just want to poke in and say hi, I'm probably only 1/3 of the way through. Have to get to work.
Love the retro pictures.

I was so confused in the beginning when you said you were at your first hotel, and couldn't get a bus to the MK. I wondered why you didn't walk over, I was thinking you were at Bay Lake Towers, not the Animal Kingdom Lodge. I have to slow down when I read.

Great Christmas Card and I hope you and your family had a great holiday and will have a Happy New year.

I wish you lived around here.
My sister could learn so much from you. Their son is 10, and is autistic.
Her and her husband are still in denial with their son.
They are not pro-active, they always just deal with the aftermath. My sister buries herself in her work. But I'm not in her shoes, and I really shouldn't judge, but me and my sisters get really worried at times, especially when they leave him home alone. We finally convinced her to call one of us, and we stay and visit with him for that one hour or two hours, while they run errands.

Gotta really get to work now.
M.

[UGAFan0829]

Very cool pics, Ellen!! I'm glad Sean had a good time exploring while the other boys had fun in the pool-which looked very nice by the way.
I've always wondered what Universal's hotels were like, and now I have a pretty good idea. They look really nice, even though they lack the Disney magic!
Can't wait for more!

[podsnel]

Pods' Aunt, Irma, lives about 2 hours west of Orlando in a town called Spring Hill. Aunt Irma is a sweetheart, and will be turning 94 this February! :goodvibes So, whenever all of us go down to Orlando, we try to pay her a visit, and it is so nice to see her. Sean, however, is not a fan of this trip. But he goes. And on this visit, at least we remembered to bring both Blue AND Thumper (a few trips back we brought Blue and left Thumper behind- Oh, what a disaster that was!!) But we got there, and Sean didn't want to get out of the car. So I waited with him for a while, so the rest could go in and visit, and read my book. Eventually he was ready to go in...and we had a lovely dinner that Aunt Irma had arranged for us in the private dining room at her Assisted Living home. See? What a sweetheart!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0326.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0327.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0328.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0332.jpg

After dinner, we went back up to her apartment to visit for a while.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0333.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0337.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0338.jpg

Sean started acting up, so I went back out to the car with him. It always makes me so sad that Aunt Irma lives so far away from everyone- and she is all alone. :sad1: She and her husband had moved down here when they were in their 50s...and her husband passed away not long after. They had no kids, so her brother's families (Pods and his 4 brothers) are really important to her. We always leave happy we saw her, and sad it couldn't be more often.

Back at the HRH, it was bedtime, and Sean had once again commandeered his bed-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0343.jpg

That picture cracks me up!! Doesn't he look so comfy?? :rotfl: Well, at least Pods was getting a bed this night, since Tyler was on the cot. Soon it was lights out- because in the morning, Tyler & Pods were getting to the park early to ride RRR!! And- oh joy- I would get to pack up the room!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0344.jpg

See you for more Universal fun soon-

[podsnel]

We woke up to another beautiful day in Florida-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0347.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0348.jpg

Pods & Tyler were out fairly quickly after their showers, because we thought their BEST chance to ride Rip Ride Rockit would be as soon as the park opened. I stayed to...pack up the room. You know- again. We ate a quick in-room breakfast- and I just realized I forgot to mention my FAVORITE thing in the HRH room- every room has a little baby Kuerig. It was AWESOME!!! I LOVED that thing!! Anyway, while I sipped my last delicious cup of coffee in Orlando (mayyyyy-be) the bell man came and took our luggage, and we were off!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0349.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0351.jpg

Today we were walking over, and I called Pods to see how the ride was- and they STILL were not on!! WHAT?? Yep! The park opened, but the ride had not- I guess they were having some problems with it. And they also had no estimate when it would actually be opening...turns out, this happens a LOT with this ride. Well, fortunately, by the time we got in the park, the ride was running and Pods called to say there were just a few people ahead of them. So we sat on the lawn and waited and watched.

Is that them????
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0353.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0355.jpg

They came out...we thought they were going to be like, "It was AWESOME!! Tim, ya gotta try it!!" Instead, they were like...meh. It was not so great. :scared1: I guess their opinion was that after that really cool 1st drop, which was over like THAT, it was nothing much. They are MUCH more impressed by the Hulk and Dueling Dragons. Something to keep in mind in case your kids ever are trying to convince you it will be worth the 2 hour wait! (Or you're trying to convinve yourself).

I had a request- I wanted to ride Jaws, because we had never done that before, and half the time we have been here in November, it's been closed for refurb (so have alot of things usually. I think because we were here on a Sunday, rather tha a weekday- that may have made a difference). For some reason, Timmy was really afraid to go on this- but we encouraged him, and explained people usually think Jaws is a funny ride, so he came on while Pods & S waited outside.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0356.jpg

I do remember when this was first here people said it was psychologically terrifying, but now it's like a hokey, big joke. :) We headed for the Simpsons and MIB, which were both a lot of fun. Afterwards, it was time to get wet-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0357.jpg

Athough the wettest was yet to come later that day! It was getting close to midday, and so we headed over to IOA-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0359.jpg

The parks are right next to each other, very easy to get from one to another. Both parks were soooo empty, there were just no waits- we rarely even needed the FOL pass. Pods & Ty rode the Hulk- which they LOVE!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0360.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0361.jpg

Sean was getting a little fussy, so as soon as they came off we walked in the opposite direction towards Suess Landing.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0363.jpg

Next up- the rest of our IOA day, lunch at Mythos, the NBA Cafe...and checking into BLT!! :banana:

[CRdisMom]

love the photos. I've never been to the "dark side" Beth loves the adventure rides but I think we will save that park for when Katie is a bit older that way she can ride them too. Learning a lot from your TR. Gotta let the Beth have her "time" like Sean does and then we can all come back together and do fun things.

How excited are you for your trip to USVI?

[UGAFan0829]

Whoo-hoo! Yet another great update. The pics of Aunt Irma were just too, too sweet. I'm glad that you all were able to pay her a visit, and how sweet that she had arranged a dinner for everyone. It looked very nice.

I have to say, even though I love roller coasters, I think I would be afraid of RRR...I'm terrified of heights, and that first hill just looks totally scary! I've really loved seeing Universal through your eyes though...very cool!

[podsnel]

Just want to poke in and say hi, I'm probably only 1/3 of the way through. Have to get to work.
Love the retro pictures.

I was so confused in the beginning when you said you were at your first hotel, and couldn't get a bus to the MK. I wondered why you didn't walk over, I was thinking you were at Bay Lake Towers, not the Animal Kingdom Lodge. I have to slow down when I read.

Great Christmas Card and I hope you and your family had a great holiday and will have a Happy New year.

I wish you lived around here.
My sister could learn so much from you. Their son is 10, and is autistic.
Her and her husband are still in denial with their son.
They are not pro-active, they always just deal with the aftermath. My sister buries herself in her work. But I'm not in her shoes, and I really shouldn't judge, but me and my sisters get really worried at times, especially when they leave him home alone. We finally convinced her to call one of us, and we stay and visit with him for that one hour or two hours, while they run errands.

Gotta really get to work now.
M.

Well, hi there!! I've been wondering where you were!!:goodvibes Hope you had a nice Christmas, and I'm glad you found me to read along now. Of course you have me laughing already- that's right!! We REFUSE to walk to MK even from BLT! :rotfl:

I am so, so sad about your nephew!! It is a LOT to accept (I didn't want to believe it when they told us, either) but I HAD to accept it- not wanting it to be true didn't make it so! And he needed help- ignoring everything and pretending he was ok would have been such a sad and horrible dis-service to him. Is he just mildly affected? How does he do in school? I am glad you guys were able to convince her that you would visit with him when she has to go out. Oh, i wish I lived closer, too- I would so love to help in any way i could. :hug: Let me know if you have any questions, or need to know anything else-

Hope you made it to work on time! :thumbsup2

Very cool pics, Ellen!! I'm glad Sean had a good time exploring while the other boys had fun in the pool-which looked very nice by the way.
I've always wondered what Universal's hotels were like, and now I have a pretty good idea. They look really nice, even though they lack the Disney magic!
Can't wait for more!

They are VERY nice hotels (well- I only know about this one, but i hear good things about the other 2 as well) and if they were somewhere we could easily drive to that was NOT near WDW, I am sure we'd be going there all the time. :goodvibes Thanks!

love the photos. I've never been to the "dark side" Beth loves the adventure rides but I think we will save that park for when Katie is a bit older that way she can ride them too. Learning a lot from your TR. Gotta let the Beth have her "time" like Sean does and then we can all come back together and do fun things.

How excited are you for your trip to USVI?

I'm glad the tr is helping you. :goodvibes I hope giving Beth her "time" will help her as much as it did Sean (and, of course, that made it better for ALL of us!).

Oh- I'm pretty excited for my trip! St John is just so beautiful and laid back, but it's more than that- it's great for us because of our friends we go with- we just laugh and laugh...who doesn't love that? :rotfl:

Whoo-hoo! Yet another great update. The pics of Aunt Irma were just too, too sweet. I'm glad that you all were able to pay her a visit, and how sweet that she had arranged a dinner for everyone. It looked very nice.

I have to say, even though I love roller coasters, I think I would be afraid of RRR...I'm terrified of heights, and that first hill just looks totally scary! I've really loved seeing Universal through your eyes though...very cool!

Thanks! Irma is great- I wish she would live closer, though. But that will never happen, so we have to cherish a little visits when we can get them.

And truly, Pods said that drop was over SO FAST- how do you go on coasters if you're terrified of heights? I am, too- but I can do Disney coasters. Plus, I really want to try those. But I don't care the same way about the Universal experience, so I'm a happy chicken for the most part while we're there!! HA!

[papertraveller]

:worship:

Well Ellen, you have truly left me (once again) in awe at your wondrousness! Not only do you write some of the most compelling and humourous trip reports out there, turns out you're the best mom in the world too!!

I just stumbled on this TR as I was drifting across the boards, but once I saw it was you ('cause I LOVED your VB TR) I knew I was going to be at the computer for awhile. Little did I know what a journey you'd take your readers on -- and share with us your family's amazing journey as well. You guys are all amazing, and clearly your gentle spirit, pragmatic view and generous dollop of humour make life that much richer.

Thanks for making mine richer too!

[MEK]

FINALLY.......I have seen all the pictures and I am all caught up. Wow - that was a fast little side trip to Universal. I can't believe its time to go already.

I love the picture of the HRH pool - very nice! I think its my favorite of the universal resorts (even though I didn't stay there - I toured it extensively). Since I play the guitar is is hard to not like that whole guitar theme. Everything is guitars, strings, fretboards, and picks. But for the serious guitar player who must leave their guitar at home while traveling, its almost too painful of a reminder. You look at that stuff and think......"I am going to lose all my callouses by the time I get home". (explanation......Callouses keep your fingers from hurting when you play. Once you lose them....ouch!)Oh well ....I digress.

Visiting Aunt Irma....:thumbsup2.....how great! I bet she was so excited for that visit. Why, just look at her face. She is beaming.

Love all the food pics. Yummy looking nachos. (and margarita!)

The Hulk is my favorite roller coaster....bar none!

[praisehisname]

Sounds like you had a great visit with Aunt Irma, and a lot of fun at Universal!

[englishrose47]

Great Updates Ellen !! Glad you got to see Aunt Irma !!! She looks soooo sweet!!!

[podsnel]

Good morning! I wanted to post some pics from our visit to IOA in 2005. The ages were Sean, 11, Tyler, 8, Timmy, 6. Sean was having the BEST time-

This is the only Blue they have- I always wonder why this character isn't in the park-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-204.jpg

On the Caroseussel-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-214.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-216.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-220.jpg

I have NEVER seen this open. Do you see the book in Sean's hand? It is Green Eggs & Ham. He is reading it even while I am taking the picture-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-222.jpg

The BEST thing of all was that Sam-I-Am was in the park- and Sean fed him Green Eggs and ham- it was one of my favorite moments EVER with him!!:lovestruc Sean has been reading that book since he was 2- he would sit in his crib and read it to himself (although I think it was memorized) and would say, "Would-ya, would-ya, could-ya, could-ya" when he got to the "would you, could you in a boat? would you, could you, in a boat?" parts- so with his HUGE love of Green Eggs and Ham, you can imagine how touching this was for all of us- including his brothers, who were soooo excited- for him.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-230.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-231.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-233.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-234.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-242.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-246.jpg

Fun, fun, fun! I wanted to include these, well, because I love the story with Sean and Sam, for one thing, but also because....I have so few from this recent trip like this. The past two years, Sean has REFUSED to slow down and go on ANYTHING in this part of the park- as a matter of fact, i am sure he would prefer to avoid it altogether, he pushes us through to the next "island", and I just can't figure it out! I guess you might think, well, maybe he thinks he's too old for it- but I don't know about that one, because he STILL reads Green Eggs & Ham incessantly, as well as many other Dr Seuss books and watches the videos (and just 2 days ago went on the computer for the first time in about 3 years to play with the cd-roms). So I am BAFFLED!!

Anyway- I will update more in a minute, and then answer the replies after (some of them are so nice I don't know what to say!) :blush:

Ellen:flower3:

[podsnel]

As Sean charged us through Suess town, alllowing us to only ride the Cat in the Hat (T&T& me)-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0364.jpg

which, by the way, is yet ANOTHER amazing ride- very, very similar to Winnie the Pooh, but more spinny/twisty, so more giggles on this one. And no wait whatsoever. But Sean would NOT get on! I can't figure this out!! Anyway, I had read on the U Boards that Mythos has been voted the #1 theme park restaurant IN THE WORLD many, many times, so I really needed to pay a little visit, of course!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0365.jpg

Sean was pretty hungry at this point, and thankfully they, once again, brough fries out quickly.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0366.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0367.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0368.jpg

Tyler got a strawberry smoothie-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0369.jpg

And I ordered some sort of rum concoction that came in a fishbowl-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0370.jpg

B&B-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0371.jpg

Once again ordering based on all the people drooling over certain menu items on that "darkside board", we started by sharing the Chef's Signature Pizza-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0372.jpg

OMG, that was incredible- but it all was very, very good. Following the "darkside" suggestions, I ordered for everyone- the risotto of the day, which that day was with seafood. Lots of seafood-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0373.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0374.jpg

Pastabilities-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0375.jpg

And their signature dish, Blueberry & Pistachio crusted pork, with blue cheese and port wine sauce. served with smokey mac & cheese-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0376.jpg

Was it all delish? Abso-tively! Was it better than ALL other theme park restaurants (including Bistro de Paris)???? Not so sure about that one....but I would go again, without a doubt!

After lunch, stuffed to the gills, it was time to ride a roller coaster!! :rotfl: So the usual suspects rode Dueling Dragons- both sides- because the park was DEAD EMPTY- even this had very little wait! I actually have trouble remembering if Timmy went on or not- I think not, because I think he was in chicken dance mode- but I'll ask him when he gets home later. DD is a ride that will be a part of Harry Potter- it is supposed to be excellent, the cars nearly collide from the two different coasters (fire & ice) going at once- I think within inches of each other. Here is what Harry Potter looked like the first week of November-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0378.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0379.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0380.jpg

Ok- I am off to upload some pics, and to do a little packing- I AM going away in 2 days, after all- but packing JUST FOR ME?? Piece of cake!

[Tiggerrn2]

New to posting on your TR. Enjoying the read. Thank you for sharing.

[karajeboo]

HOly updates BAtman! Slow down!!!!

We didn't get to ride RRR when we were just there, since we go on a super duper pass (escorted straight to the front of EVERY line) and no passes are allowed for that. But I had heard it wasn't all that, so I guess we didn't miss much.

DD, on the other hand, I love!!!! Hulk? Not so much, for the same reasons I don't care for RnR - that instant takeoff. I can never catch my breath after that!!! Gimme the old fashioned chain pulling me up the hill......

Great pics of the boys in 2005 - so AWESOME tht Sean got to meet Sam!!!

I think Universal gets a bad rap, but honestly, I think IOA is one of the prettiest parks anywhere. True, it doesn't have the pixie dust, and no castle backdrop, but it is beautiful in there!!!

I will look for my pics of Harry Potter from just a couple weeks ago - a lot more has been done!

[Mysteria]

HOly updates BAtman! Slow down!!!!


Word! :rotfl: So much catching up to do.

Actually don't. :thumbsup2 I love your reports and I know there will be another soon!

Aunt Irma doesn't look 94! Wow! Glad you had a nice visit.

Thanks for the update on RRR. I won't be waiting 2 hours for it.

Without knowing Sean, outside of what you speak of him, or his level of autism (and my understanding of) this is just a thought. Could he be feeling like he's too old for it even though he really does still like it?

[MEK]

You are really tearing through this TR....but I like it. I know there will be something new to read just about every day. :thumbsup2 And time for another vacation already? You go girl. Perfect remedy for the winter blues.

I love the Universal pictures from several years back. The boys all look like they are having a great time!

Lunch looks super yum. Cool restaurant. I really do think I need a little Universal visit after seeing these pics. I miss it!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oooooh! Thanks for posting those Harry Potter pics!! I can't WAIT to get there...not this summer though. It will be much too crowded

It's so funny that Timmy and Ty look nothing alike but in those younger pictures of Sean, he looks like a combination of both of them! Adorable pics!

[areck]

We have never been outside of the "World" when in Orlando. Your pictures and descriptions have me thinking, maybe, just maybe the next time we can visit Universal Studios. Thank you. My husband and son thank you (in advance)!:idea:

The only thought I have about Sean's reluctance to ride his old favorites is his perspective has changed. He is much taller. Blue is no longer at eye level. Would that make him uncomfortable?

[englishrose47]

Loved the "Look Back Pix """ My nickmane is "SAM I AM" as I once cooked green eggs at camp !!! Several of the consumers call me that:rotfl2:Actually my nickname is Sam but the I am is usually added !!! Do not ask how Rosalie became Sam it is a long story and for the Dis and Disney I am much happier being Rosie !!!!!!:banana::banana:

[MAGICFOR2]

UPDATEAPALOOZA!!!! IOA looks fun. We haven't done it because I'm a big chicken and Jim didn't want to do it by himself. Maybe when we all go. Loved the food porn:thumbsup2 I'm glad Sean had fun! His face on the carousel is priceless! And Aunt Irma! She looks so young and vibrant - what a fun lady she must be.

[podsnel]

:worship:

Well Ellen, you have truly left me (once again) in awe at your wondrousness! Not only do you write some of the most compelling and humourous trip reports out there, turns out you're the best mom in the world too!!

I just stumbled on this TR as I was drifting across the boards, but once I saw it was you ('cause I LOVED your VB TR) I knew I was going to be at the computer for awhile. Little did I know what a journey you'd take your readers on -- and share with us your family's amazing journey as well. You guys are all amazing, and clearly your gentle spirit, pragmatic view and generous dollop of humour make life that much richer.

Thanks for making mine richer too!

Thank-you, thank-you, so very much for all of your praise. Once again (didn't you say such nice things to me in the VB report, too?), you have left me speechless! :blush: You make me so happy that I write all these TRs- and that YOU read them!! :rotfl: And I'd like to say (and I'm pretty sure I've said it to you before) I hope one day soon you will use YOUR wonderful way with words, and write a TR for all of us to read- I bet it would be fabulous!! :yay:

Thanks so much for making me feel so special. I truly appreciate it.:hug:

FINALLY.......I have seen all the pictures and I am all caught up. Wow - that was a fast little side trip to Universal. I can't believe its time to go already.

I love the picture of the HRH pool - very nice! I think its my favorite of the universal resorts (even though I didn't stay there - I toured it extensively). Since I play the guitar is is hard to not like that whole guitar theme. Everything is guitars, strings, fretboards, and picks. But for the serious guitar player who must leave their guitar at home while traveling, its almost too painful of a reminder. You look at that stuff and think......"I am going to lose all my callouses by the time I get home". (explanation......Callouses keep your fingers from hurting when you play. Once you lose them....ouch!)Oh well ....I digress.

Visiting Aunt Irma....:thumbsup2.....how great! I bet she was so excited for that visit. Why, just look at her face. She is beaming.

Love all the food pics. Yummy looking nachos. (and margarita!)

The Hulk is my favorite roller coaster....bar none!

There are a TON of guitars everywhere at HRH- I can see why, as a guitarist, it would make you miss your ax! :) I do know what the calluses are for- they are what I did NOT have when a friend tried to teach me to play as a kid (and I quickly quit- OUCH!). I do have cooking calluses as an adult, so maybe knives are MY instrument. :rotfl:

I wanted to ride the HUlk this time, and didn't- maybe next time. I know Pods & Ty love it, too!

Sounds like you had a great visit with Aunt Irma, and a lot of fun at Universal!

Great Updates Ellen !! Glad you got to see Aunt Irma !!! She looks soooo sweet!!!

Aunt Irma is the BOMB! Just like Pods' Dad was, who was her brother. I'm going to post a couple of pics from our first visit with her in a minute-

[podsnel]

New to posting on your TR. Enjoying the read. Thank you for sharing.

Hi there! Thank-YOU for reading! :goodvibes

HOly updates BAtman! Slow down!!!!

We didn't get to ride RRR when we were just there, since we go on a super duper pass (escorted straight to the front of EVERY line) and no passes are allowed for that. But I had heard it wasn't all that, so I guess we didn't miss much.

DD, on the other hand, I love!!!! Hulk? Not so much, for the same reasons I don't care for RnR - that instant takeoff. I can never catch my breath after that!!! Gimme the old fashioned chain pulling me up the hill......

Great pics of the boys in 2005 - so AWESOME tht Sean got to meet Sam!!!

I think Universal gets a bad rap, but honestly, I think IOA is one of the prettiest parks anywhere. True, it doesn't have the pixie dust, and no castle backdrop, but it is beautiful in there!!!

I will look for my pics of Harry Potter from just a couple weeks ago - a lot more has been done!

I can't slow down!!! I'm leaving in the morning!! Well, that will slow me down, so you won't have to worry about too many updates over the next week-:goodvibes

In a way I kind of like that RnR take off- I always feel like the scariest part is over and it REALLY gets my adreneline pumping for the rest of the ride. That IS what they say they love about the Hulk, tho- that take off. I wouldn't know- I was a big chicken and didn't ride. And clearly I should have, because there was no line. Next time.....

Hope you post those HP pix! Wondering how it's coming along!

And FWIW, I agree- Universal has a bad rap, and is a great place. Lots and lots of fun rides, and very pretty parks. :thumbsup2

Word! :rotfl: So much catching up to do.

Actually don't. :thumbsup2 I love your reports and I know there will be another soon!

Aunt Irma doesn't look 94! Wow! Glad you had a nice visit.

Thanks for the update on RRR. I won't be waiting 2 hours for it.

Without knowing Sean, outside of what you speak of him, or his level of autism (and my understanding of) this is just a thought. Could he be feeling like he's too old for it even though he really does still like it?

I don't know- I think that, but then he runs around naked when we have dinner parties, so I'm not so sure he's worried about social appropriateness. :rotfl: I think that's why I'm so confused!

You are really tearing through this TR....but I like it. I know there will be something new to read just about every day. :thumbsup2 And time for another vacation already? You go girl. Perfect remedy for the winter blues.

I love the Universal pictures from several years back. The boys all look like they are having a great time!

Lunch looks super yum. Cool restaurant. I really do think I need a little Universal visit after seeing these pics. I miss it!

Glad you were able to see the pics, finally! A few retros coming up- and I REALLY am excited for tomorrow!!:woohoo: Thanks!

Oooooh! Thanks for posting those Harry Potter pics!! I can't WAIT to get there...not this summer though. It will be much too crowded

It's so funny that Timmy and Ty look nothing alike but in those younger pictures of Sean, he looks like a combination of both of them! Adorable pics!

I agree- I think HP is going to make Universal a LOT more crowded! Good for them- it's a great experience!

Funny you say that about T&T&S- when people look at our kids with us, the general concensus is that Timmy is Pods, Tyler is me, and Sean is both of us. But I SWEAR to you that when they were all born, Tyler came out lookin' like a big 'ol Sean, and Timmy looked like nobody! Genetics are absolutely fascinating to me! Really they all have a part of both of us- and I think when they were little, Timmy & Tyler were often mistaken for twins- but maybe that was the blonde hair. Who knows? :confused3

[podsnel]

We have never been outside of the "World" when in Orlando. Your pictures and descriptions have me thinking, maybe, just maybe the next time we can visit Universal Studios. Thank you. My husband and son thank you (in advance)!:idea:

The only thought I have about Sean's reluctance to ride his old favorites is his perspective has changed. He is much taller. Blue is no longer at eye level. Would that make him uncomfortable?

You're welcome!! :goodvibes You will enjoy it- it's a blast there. A very nice diversion.

And, I don't know (about your Sean theory) but it's certainly possible that's it! I'll have to give it some thought- thanks!:thumbsup2

Loved the "Look Back Pix """ My nickmane is "SAM I AM" as I once cooked green eggs at camp !!! Several of the consumers call me that:rotfl2:Actually my nickname is Sam but the I am is usually added !!! Do not ask how Rosalie became Sam it is a long story and for the Dis and Disney I am much happier being Rosie !!!!!!:banana::banana:

Ok Sam...:rotfl:

UPDATEAPALOOZA!!!! IOA looks fun. We haven't done it because I'm a big chicken and Jim didn't want to do it by himself. Maybe when we all go. Loved the food porn:thumbsup2 I'm glad Sean had fun! His face on the carousel is priceless! And Aunt Irma! She looks so young and vibrant - what a fun lady she must be.

There is a LOT of stuff you can go on at IOA even as a big chicken- all the Seuss stuff, Spiderman (which is MY personal favorite on the darkside) and a couple of others. REALLY- it's not ALL coasters!

[podsnel]

I had a few pics of our 1st visit to see Aunt Irma as a family that I'd love to show you. As I said, it used to be that we would go out to dinner when we went to visit. The first time, she took us to her favorite spot. It was a biker bar! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Go Irma! :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/disney03176.jpg

The boys were 4, 6, & 9. They were runnin' AMUCK the entire night- well, in the part where all the games and stuff were before we actually ate. It was very funny. Here are the couch pics from that same visit-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/disney03179.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/disney03183.jpg

See the Popeye and blue star? Those were prizes T&T won playing hoops at IOA- they had no idea who Popeye was, and Tyler kept calling him "puh-pie". :rotfl: They were so PROUD of those prizes!!

Ok- have to run & get my nails done, and go for one last visit to the gym, and pack my snorkel gear!! Yay!! Time for STJ!!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[MEK]

Ellen -

NOt sure if you left today or are leaving in the am.....have an awesome time in the Virgin Islands. Snorkling gear? Ahhhhhh......blue, warm water. What lovely imagery! Have a great trip. But selfishly, I can't wait for you to get back with another update!

Anymore trips between now and May???? Just checking?????:rotfl:

[podsnel]

Hello from paradise!! We are having so much fun- so sad it's almost over!! We went to BVI's yesterday and had a little too much fun- today I think we're going to Trunk Bay. Lots of photos for you when I get back!:hippie:

[UGAFan0829]

Woohoo! We've been thinking about you, Ellen! Glad to hear that you're having a grand time. Can't wait to see pics and hear all about it!!!

[MAGICFOR2]

I'm glad you're having such a great time in the tropics! Can't wait to hear all about it!

[CRdisMom]

hmmm warm water sounds really good. Pictures should be great

[WannaBeADisMom]

:woohoo:Anxiously awaiting your return....Can't wait to read the rest of this report AND your mini-report about St. John's....hiking, snorkeling and ginormous margaritas:drinking1....doesn't get any better than than. And, oh yeah, the HOT sun! :beach: Just a little jealous back here at home!:goodvibes

[englishrose47]

Hi Ellen make sure you link me if you do a seperate TR!!!

[podsnel]

Hey there! I'm back- we had a fabulous time in St John- great weather, beautiful beaches, one or two cocktails :rolleyes1......Anyway, I came home sick, so sorry for the delay- I'll be back with an update soon!

And thanks everyone for all the happy vacation wishes! :hug:

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Welcome back! Glad you had a great time! Hope you're feeling better!

[englishrose47]

Welcome back yet again !!!!! I am sooo jealous of all the trips you get to do !!!!

[MAGICFOR2]

Get better quickly, Ellen!

[podsnel]

Ok...I think before I left for paradise we were moving by Harry Potter 2B and then....Pods and the boys wanted to ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure, and I was hopeful Sean would go into the Jurassic Park Discovery Center while we waited (which he wouldn't do with me last time). Great news! Sean was happy to go inside and explore all the cool dinosaur stuff.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0381.jpg

We tried to play with the dinosaur eggs, but really couldn't figure out what to do, but that was ok- there was plenty of other stuff in there to check out- just like in the movie. :scared1: Well, no velociraptors! We went outside just in time to see this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0382.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0384.jpg

They like that ride alot- the last drop makes a BIG splash! Timmy was starting to get his mojo goin', and was LOVING being all wet. I was SO EXCITED to see, when we moved past Jurassic Park (and weren't allowed to ride the Pteranodon Flyers because my kids are TOO BIG:sad1:), that for the first time EVER when we have visited, Dudley DoRights Ripsaw Falls was OPEN! I had heard that that flume is INSANE, and while there was no way I was gettin on that thing, I knew Pods & Tyler would be into it. I was completely shocked when Tim said he wanted to go, too! Here's a clip from youtube-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYbbsfy-8Ho

That's not my family, but this is-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0385.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0386.jpg

I am freaked by waterflumes, so this is most definitely NOT for me! I'm nervous on Splash Mountain, and SM is not NEARLY as crazy as this ride. But they all seemed to really enjoy it-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0388.jpg

Timmy was especially proud of how soaked he was-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0389.jpg

But that was NOTHIN compared to what they were heading for next! Also for the first time we have been to IOA, Popeye & Bluto's Bilge Rat Barges was open! Like many other rides in the park, T&T hopped right on.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0390.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0391.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0392.jpg

Did I say they were soaked when they got off the last ride? Then they were DRENCHED TO THE BONE when they got off this one! :rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0393.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0394.jpg

Universal actually has dryers placed by these rides so you can dry off if you're totally drenched. How wonderful is that? Well, it's actually NOT so wonderful for my kids- because they have ME in the group, and I have only one thing on my mind at this point...finish riding at IOA and RETURN TO THE MOTHERSHIP!!!!! So, no matter how much my baby Timmy said, "C'mon, it's RIGHT THERE! I'M SOAKED!!" I said, "No, no, little man- you're fine. Practically dry already. Let's GO!" :lmao:

Let's see if any of you calls me Mother of the year NOW!! :rotfl2::rotfl2:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0395.jpg

Next it was Pods' turn to wait with Sean while I rode the Amazing Adventures of Spiderman with T&T. This is one of my MOST favorite rides of all time. It's a combo 3-D/motion but it's also on a track- it REALLY is incredible, and it never ceases to make me laugh and giggle. Timmy kept on complaining he was cold...but I am SURE he was practically dry! :rotfl: (Actually, FWIW, Timmy had a big smile on his face the whole time he was complaining). We only had 2 more rides in the park to go- and one of them, Sean was happy to get on (also for the first time. YAY!!) Storm Force Accelatron is pretty much the Tea Cups on steroids. And due to the total lack of crowds, we rode 3 times in a row. Pods took our pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0118.jpg

Our Shawnee loves to spin! Finally, Pods & Tyler hit the HULK one last time. THEY WALKED RIGHT ON. Crazy! Timmy still would have none of it, though. I can tell you, though, that I think he regrets that decision now. But that's ok- we'll be back.

Next up- we're headed to the NBA Cafe for a little hoop action before heading out and moving on to BLT.

[MEK]

Welcome back Ellen. I hope you had a marvelous trip! Was it warm, sunny, and beautiful? Well, was it??? Huh? Huh? How 'bout posting a few pics. I'm gonna need them this weekend as were getting our a$$es kicked with snow!

Great update. I love all three of those water rides. I remember walking around feeling like I had a wet diaper on after doing those water rides. I love water rides.....wet diapers...not so much!

I know I've said this before, but your side trip to Universal really looks like a lot of fun. And the none existing crowds....nice!

But it is time to get back to the mothership and I can't wait to see BLT.

[podsnel]

We were walking out of the park, and I suggested we stop at the NBA Cafe to see what was in there before we left. The NBA Cafe is not the run-of-the-mill sports bar....everything is basketball, and there is a pretty good arcade with only basketball type games. So we went to see what there was to see....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0399.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0400.jpg

He was one TALL hoopster! As with everything else that day, we had (almost) the whole place to ourselves.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0401.jpg

See? Practically dry- he's fine! :rotfl:
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0402.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0404.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0406.jpg

The entrance has all these bronze basketballs, all with different NBA stars' handprints. In case you were wondering....those boys have got some BIG HANDS!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0407.jpg

It would have been nice to see all the memorabilia inside the bar & restaurant, but we'll have to do that on another day. It was time to go back to HRH, and then go on to....you know where! :mickeyjum

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0408.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0410.jpg

A few pics while we waited for our car....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0411.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0412.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0413.jpg

And then.....wave good-bye to the Darkside, it's time to go back to the Happiest Place on Earth!

But just to be clear- the Darkside rocks!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0414.jpg

[MAGICFOR2]

Thanks for the update! I love Jurassic Park! It somehow doesn't scare me as much as SM because the "boat" is bigger. :confused3 That other flume ride looks crazy wet - don't think so! :goodvibes DH would love the NBA Cafe - I guess we'll have to go back to the dark side some day - you've convinced me! :goodvibes

[Mysteria]

Welcome home Ellen!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip.

I'm totally relating to your IOA day and the drenching. :rotfl: We did those rides in the same order and took a pic of our drenched selves afterwards.

[mom2shayleeandlogan]

Great update!:goodvibes

[MEK]

Home, home to the mothership....where is she???? Loved that fountain with all the guitars....very cool!

[podsnel]

Welcome back! Glad you had a great time! Hope you're feeling better!

Welcome back yet again !!!!! I am sooo jealous of all the trips you get to do !!!!

Get better quickly, Ellen!

Thanks for the get-well wishes, everyone! :goodvibes I am feeling great, getting ready for the Superbowl tomorrow-

Welcome back Ellen. I hope you had a marvelous trip! Was it warm, sunny, and beautiful? Well, was it??? Huh? Huh? How 'bout posting a few pics. I'm gonna need them this weekend as were getting our a$$es kicked with snow!

Great update. I love all three of those water rides. I remember walking around feeling like I had a wet diaper on after doing those water rides. I love water rides.....wet diapers...not so much!

I know I've said this before, but your side trip to Universal really looks like a lot of fun. And the none existing crowds....nice!

But it is time to get back to the mothership and I can't wait to see BLT.

Yes- it was warm and gloriously gorgeous, every moment filled with belly laughs! I will post some pics today- photobucket is finally cooperating again.

You a better man than me going on that big waterslide- I would do the other two, but I don't think I have it in me to do Dudley! :scared1:

I'm making shortribs and some other things for tomorrow, so I'll take a cooking break in a few and post the 10 bazillion photos of our 1 bdrm at BLT soon! :thumbsup2

[podsnel]

Welcome home Ellen!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip.

I'm totally relating to your IOA day and the drenching. :rotfl: We did those rides in the same order and took a pic of our drenched selves afterwards.

I bet many people ride them in that order- must be fantastic on a really hot day!

Thanks for the update! I love Jurassic Park! It somehow doesn't scare me as much as SM because the "boat" is bigger. :confused3 That other flume ride looks crazy wet - don't think so! :goodvibes DH would love the NBA Cafe - I guess we'll have to go back to the dark side some day - you've convinced me! :goodvibes

Cool! :thumbsup2

Great update!:goodvibes

Thank-you!!:goodvibes

Home, home to the mothership....where is she???? Loved that fountain with all the guitars....very cool!

I figured you would like that fountain, guitar-girl! :hippie:

[podsnel]

We waved good-bye to the darkside, and in a short while we were enjoying this view for the second time this trip-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0416.jpg

Our plan was to check-in at BLT, where Pods would drop me off with the boys, while he would take the car rental back to the TTC and come back on the monorail. This lovely flower arrangement was at the front desk-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0417.jpg

I was pretty nervous right then- as you may recall, Sean was not too happy checking into HRH, and I was concerned he was going to have another meltdown checking into yet another hotel. But....he was just peachy!! My boy was all too happy to be back to the Mothership!! It was time to be escorted over to BLT with the bellman and our luggage. I had requested a lower floor villa, because I was worried about Sean and a high balcony, so we were on the 4th floor, in a Lake View 1 BDRM. Get ready to view the bazillion pics I took of the villa, it could take a while!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0418-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0419.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0420-1.jpg

Looking back toward the hallway-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0421.jpg

The view to the right-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0422-1.jpg

The view to the left-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0423.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0424-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0425.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0426.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0427.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0428.jpg

From the balcony door-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0429-1.jpg

This chair is made of some soft, soft leather...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0430.jpg

The shower in the master-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0432.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0433.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0434.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0435-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0436.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0437.jpg

We were lucky enough to be in one of the villas with an actual laundry room- I thought this was AWESOME!!! All the messy, dirty laundry got thrown in there for me to do a few loads, and it was all behind the door along with stored suitcases- EXCELLENT!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0438-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0440.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0443.jpg

And, finally, the extra full bath off of the hallway-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0444.jpg

DH got back, and he was pretty impressed. I believe his exact quote was, "WOW. How many points a night is THIS?" I know alot of people say the decor here leaves them cold, and that it looks cheap, but I can't think of anything further from the truth. BLT made us feel like we were in the lap of luxury, it felt sooooooooooooooooooooooo swanky! We loved, loved, loved it, and I hope one day I can convince DH to do a little add-on....I bet the MK view villas are spectacular! The only negative we saw was that it did feel considerably smaller than Kidani- but that fact was easily forgotten once we were in the room for a bit and our perspective adjusted.

Next up...time for dinner at Chef Mickey's...groan....

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0416.jpg



Ahhhhh....pure bliss!

That room looks incredible! Glad there was no meltdown with Sean this time...although I don't like the ominous groan in your "up next!"

[MEK]

Your return to the mothership picture is just beautiful - great colors and perfectly symmetrical - good job!

I LOVE the BLT pictures. That villa is beautiful. I can't wait until I get a chance to stay there. The decor really appeals to me. And the location....can't beat it!

A small add on there....hmmmmm....I hadn't really considered BLT as a possible add-on location, but looking at those pictures is certainly enticing,

[tinytreasures]

what a fun side trip
we didn't make it over there and now I wish we had spent a day there maybe next time we go.
The BLT pictures are beautiful :lovestruc

[Mysteria]

Looks great to me. I'd love to stay there!

[podsnel]

Ahhhhh....pure bliss!

That room looks incredible! Glad there was no meltdown with Sean this time...although I don't like the ominous groan in your "up next!"

:rolleyes1

Your return to the mothership picture is just beautiful - great colors and perfectly symmetrical - good job!

I LOVE the BLT pictures. That villa is beautiful. I can't wait until I get a chance to stay there. The decor really appeals to me. And the location....can't beat it!

A small add on there....hmmmmm....I hadn't really considered BLT as a possible add-on location, but looking at those pictures is certainly enticing,

If the economy would improve a little, I think I could convince him- Pods was a BIG fan of BLT. But we really want HHI points, and (hopefully) Washington DC points one day- so we can have a DVC within driving distance to book for holiday breaks and weekend getaways. I know alot of people say the location for that one isn't ideal, but I would love to get a Disney fix in 4 hours driving time, without $200+ pp airfare.

what a fun side trip
we didn't make it over there and now I wish we had spent a day there maybe next time we go.
The BLT pictures are beautiful :lovestruc

It WAS fun!! Not sure how we'll do it next time- especially since they restuctured the points and weekends are not as high point wise anymore.

Looks great to me. I'd love to stay there!

I wish you would have been able to join me in the TOWL!

Here are a few pics from my recent trip to St John-

These are from the day we chartered a boat (Prowler) and spent the day in the BVI's- we had Thomas for a captain again, just like last year.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0005.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0017.jpg

The Caves, Norman Island-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0027.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0039.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0046.jpg

Time to do the SKI on the Willy T-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0070.jpg

Helloooooooooooooooooooooooo Handsome Bartender!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0086.jpg

Our guys on the Willy T-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0088.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0090.jpg

Hellooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Captain Thomas!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0115.jpg

Hangin on the beach at the Soggy Dollar Bar, Jost Van Dyk-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0117.jpg

A sign typical for all bathrooms in the BVI's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0118.jpg

Bart got it 3 times!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0122.jpg

Jenga on the beach at the Soggy Dollar-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0125.jpg

Leaving my mark on Jenga-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0131.jpg

We braved the rocks in bare feet to go to Ivan's- Kenny Chesney wrote "No shoes, no shirt, no problem" about this bar-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0144.jpg

We sent Janie back to get the boat when we wanted to leave-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0145.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0154.jpg

The next day in Trunk Bay on STJ-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0160-1.jpg

With Janie & Pam in Trunk-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0175.jpg

Margarita Phil's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0204.jpg

Hope that keeps you happy until I write a TR!

[preschoolmom]

Oh my goodness! The water is so blue! :thumbsup2 Looks like you had a blast!

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0204.jpg
[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

Hi 'Rita!! :wave2:

[Mysteria]

:rolleyes1

I wish you would have been able to join me in the TOWL!

A sign typical for all bathrooms in the BVI's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0118.jpg

Took me awhile to think of what TOWL was. :rotfl: I got it though. :thumbsup2 Next time!

I love all your St John pics but this one made me laugh. What a nice way to ask to conserve water. :rotfl:

[podsnel]

We were off to Chef Mickey's. This was the one restaurant that my kids had requested we eat at- it is the restaurant that I called DD in a panic in the car on the drive home from HHI this past summer when I realized I was past the 90 day mark. Because they really wanted to go.

But I really don't know why!

Well, all I can say about it is here is a clear wake-up call for everyone who thinks their life with their kids will always be the same.

It won't. Like all else in life, kids are CONSTANTLY evolving. Constantly growing-up and changing. Lately I've been feeling like I'm going to blink my eyes and they are going to be off to college. :sad1: I'd be lying if I said this doesn't freak me out, because it does. A whole lot. So when my kids said, "Why haven't we gone back to Chef Mickey's?" I didn't question anything, I just booked it. Oops.

To give you an idea of what our last visit to CM's was like, I have a few pics from 2005- when they were 11, 8 and 6-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-016.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-020.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-021.jpg

With Chef not-Mickey
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-022.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-027.jpg

And Timmy danced when the Characters danced....Timmy danced all over Disney that year....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-029.jpg

So, in my mind, I was looking forward to more crazy fun with my nutty kids while we shoveled in some :crazy2: CM buffet. I can honestly say, it's not just my kids who have changed since 2005. CM's has also changed quite a bit. All the bad food reviews it inspires? Well, let's just say that they have not been too greatly exaggerated....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0446.jpg

yum? Never have I been more happy to see Rita-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0445.jpg

Tyler went for his usual strawberry smoothie-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0447.jpg

The character interaction IS still really great there- it's just that, sadly, my kids are kind of in the "I'm too cool for characters" phase of life. See? Evolving, changing....bummer. They did manage to pose for a couple of photos, though-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0448.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0450.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0452.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0453.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0455.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0456.jpg

I do love Goofy- he's my favorite-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0457.jpg

For some reason, throughout this meal, Timmy & Tyler were MIA ALL THE TIME. I think they may have been up at the desserts...I know they spent a LOT of time in the bathroom....I can't figure it out. So I had fun twirling the napkin by MYSELF!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0458.jpg

I had booked this dinner as the one where they would celebrate my birthday. I meant to switch to a different restaurant, but forgot all about it until they brought out my special dessert. And my boys were still MIA. So I blew out my candle ALONE...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0459.jpg

Well, Pods and Sean were there, but the dynamic duo were still mysteriously absent from the festivities. When they FINALLY came back to the table, they said there was a long line at the bathroom (for the MEN'S room????). Whatever. I just find it so odd that we go to Chef Mickey's for all the hokey-pokey-craziness, certainly NOT for the food, and, my boys are in a bathroom line (which I STILL question) for all of the napkin twirling nuttiness the place has to offer. Ah well...at least I know what to say if they ever want to eat there again...:rolleyes: (And FWIW, it is my personal opinion that they were hiding out in said men's room to avoid having to dance and napkin twirl...maybe they'll confess one day when they're feeling honest in their 40's).

A couple more forced character photos-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0460.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0461.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0462.jpg

And we paid the check (which I waited for for a LOOOOOOOOOONG time)and skee-daddled. Actually, Pods left with the boys first, because Sean was getting a little antsy. I will say this about it though- the manager of the restaurant was LOVELY and kind and gracious...even when I read the bill wrong and thought they charged us $30 for Sean to eat a plate of fries...which they did NOT. They didn't charge him at all. I was over-tired, not feeling well (did I mention I was sick all week? I was. I was just ignoring that fact because I was at WDW) and clearly not my usual fun fun fun self. I am one to barely look at the bill usually, I leave that to Pods (which is obviously a GOOD thing). Anywhoo....

Up next...Wishes Fireworks! Then TOWL! In the wrong order because I can't tell time!!

[areck]

Hi Ellen,
Welcome back!
I know what you mean about kids evolving in an unpredictable direction.:laughing: My kids (27, 24, & 12) keep me on my toes. As a rule, however, I never let on to them about how I can't figure them out. In fact, I keep all three guessing whether I'm onto their antics or not. My oldest son, Brian, is always amazed how much power a mom can wield. :worship: Yes, these kids do change. A lot. It's ok as long as it's in a direction of being the best they can be.
Does this make sense to you?? I'm trying to convey a positive message. You do possess the "power of a mama".:teacher:
Andrea

[podsnel]

Took me awhile to think of what TOWL was. :rotfl: I got it though. :thumbsup2 Next time!

I love all your St John pics but this one made me laugh. What a nice way to ask to conserve water. :rotfl:

There are versions of that theme all over the VI's- at Woody's (a very popular bar in STJ) the sign says "If it's brown, flush it down...if it's yellow, let it mellow.":rotfl2: The water comes from cisterns on the roof of all the buildings- so water conservation is SERIOUS!! But still funny! :rotfl:

[podsnel]

Hi Ellen,
Welcome back!
I know what you mean about kids evolving in an unpredictable direction.:laughing: My kids (27, 24, & 12) keep me on my toes. As a rule, however, I never let on to them about how I can't figure them out. In fact, I keep all three guessing whether I'm onto their antics or not. My oldest son, Brian, is always amazed how much power a mom can wield. :worship: Yes, these kids do change. A lot. It's ok as long as it's in a direction of being the best they can be.
Does this make sense to you?? I'm trying to convey a positive message. You do possess the "power of a mama".:teacher:
Andrea

YES!! Makes perfect sense- thank-you! :thumbsup2

[IluvXU]

I love your report. I have read the other ones (Vero because we are headed there this summer). Your Chef Mickey's makes me realize we just might need to get a reservation this summer... because someday they won't love it.

Your love of the 1 bedroom at AKV is so exciting to me. I can see though the size at BLT after being there would be crazy.

Yea for Sean handling this trip so well. Thanks for sharing your adventures, your boys are just darling!

[podsnel]

Oh my goodness! The water is so blue! :thumbsup2 Looks like you had a blast!

We always have a blast in the VI's...St John is a great place, and that whole area of the Caribbean is breathtaking. I feel so fortunate to go every year- we're already getting ready to buy our tickets for next year in a couple of weeks (they are MUCH cheaper when they come out).

Hi 'Rita!! :wave2:

She is SUCH a nice girl!!:cutie:

[podsnel]

I love your report. I have read the other ones (Vero because we are headed there this summer). Your Chef Mickey's makes me realize we just might need to get a reservation this summer... because someday they won't love it.

Your love of the 1 bedroom at AKV is so exciting to me. I can see though the size at BLT after being there would be crazy.

Yea for Sean handling this trip so well. Thanks for sharing your adventures, your boys are just darling!

Hi there! And thank-you so much for the compliments!! I really do love sharing my trip with everyone, it's almost as fun as the actual vacation. :goodvibes

We did love both of the 1 bdrms- and even though BLT felt quite smaller than Kidani, it was wonderful- it reminded me of the difference between a hotel room in...well, almost anywhere, compared to one in Manhattan!! Staying on the monorail is even better than I ever imagined. But at Kidani we felt so...away. In a good way. As in we're not in Kansas anymore away! :goodvibes A beautiful thing to enjoy on vacation from a busy life.

And by all means- do as many kid things as you can before they are too cool for school. It really goes waaaaaay too fast! Hope you have fun on yur trip, and thanks so much for reading! :goodvibes

[podsnel]

So, I am all happy with myself, it is just 8:00 and that means I have a whole hour to get up to the TOWL and watch Wishes, right? WRONG!! I don't know if you have ever read in my other posts, but I seem to have a knack for missing fireworks at WDW. I screw up the times, I'm in a restaurant against a wall, I am NEVER properly positioned to enjoy the spectacle of Disneylicious fireworks, or at least I haven't been in quite a while. I am NOT one of those who will line up hours in advance (I'm too busy having other fun somewhere, I suppose) and I am also in a family of non-enthusiastic fireworks admirers who would balk at the idea of missing some short line rides to stand on the perfect corner and enjoy the view. Sigh....I also am not one of those that would run in front of all the people who DO have the patience to line up an hour in advance- I would NEVER do that, it's rude!! So...I was looking forward to taking advantage of our primo BLT accomodations and getting my behind up to the TOWL in time to see Wishes in it's entirety. Except.....

Wishes does not start at 9. That is when Illuminations begins. Wishes on this night was going off at 8. You know, when I was on the bridge from the Contemporary to BLT. Of course. So here are my fireworks pics from not the most perfect place to take them, but I took them nonetheless, as this is as close as I may ever come to actually viewing Wishes...you know...because I can't tell time or read a schedule. :faint:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0463.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0464.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0465.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0467.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0472.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0477.jpg

Back in the room, the boys were all relaxing- we would not be going to EMH at MK tonight, the day at Universal had wiped us out! That's ok- Sean was happy with his book and his "friends" back in the comfy king-size bed, and Pods was watching a game on the tube- it WAS Sunday, after all! Timmy & Tyler were itchin' to blow through some of their hard earned coins at the arcade, so I walked them over (to show them where it was- very easy, right at the end of the walkway from BLT, pretty much. Very convenient) and left them instructions to waste some money in the arcade ONLY before returning to our room.

I, on the other hand, was going up to the TOWL- and nothing was going to stop me, even if the fireworks were over!!

Next up- TOWL for me and 1 other patron- and the BEST bartender in WDW! :thumbsup2

[areck]

Top of the world in more ways than one? Can't wait!party::drinking1

[podsnel]

Top of the world in more ways than one? Can't wait!party::drinking1

Yes- definitely! :thumbsup2

[MAGICFOR2]

:rolleyes1
Here are a few pics from my recent trip to St John
Leaving my mark on Jenga-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0131.jpg
That's great!
We braved the rocks in bare feet to go to Ivan's- Kenny Chesney wrote "No shoes, no shirt, no problem" about this bar-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0144.jpg
Gotta Love that song - especially when you're living it!

With Janie & Pam in Trunk-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0175.jpg
Sexy!
Margarita Phil's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2010_012706summer0204.jpg

Hope that keeps you happy until I write a TR!

I think having one of those Margaritas would make me happy....:cloud9:

Thanks for sharing - I needed a sunshine fix today.

[MAGICFOR2]

Nice to see you back in the "real" vacation world! :cool1: BLT looks very swank! I thought the mock-ups looked like the rooms belonged to Austin Powers - I'm glad to see they ARE tasteful, and I love the location!

Sorry about the CM incident. It makes us moms sad to see our babies grow up. And you're right. You will turn around twice and they'll be in college,then married with children, and they will belong to their wives, not to you! Take in every moment! I know what I'm talking about! :hug:

Your fireworks timing sounds like mine. We see them pretty much by accident. And I'm always the mom with the dead battery in my camera right when I want to take the perfect pic! :thumbsup2

[podsnel]

The kids were pretty much salivating at the prospect of hanging out in that arcade- it IS huge, after all, and recently redone, so all shiny and new. I turned around and went back over to BLT, catching a glimpse of the water parade on the way-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0480.jpg

After which I went downstairs to the BLT lobby to be escorted upstairs to the TOWL. Which had a total of 1 guy at the bar, 1 bartender, and 3 wait staff (although actually, maybe one of them was the mgr.). Pretty good ratio of drinkers to servers, I'd say! :rotfl: The bartender, who i believe was named Holly, was ALL THAT. She was a positively magical CM who completely adored working up there in this very, very special and exclusive lounge. She explained that usually she works the pool bar, and every so often gets to do the TOWL- too bad it's not more busy, because then she could be there all the time spreading pixie dust on the top floor of BLT. I asked her to recommend a cocktail- she said she was partial to this one, and now I can't remember which one it was!! Maybe a Pamarita? Well, I SHOULD remember, because I went back the next night to have it again, and it was just as yummy the second time around. Here's a pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0482.jpg

Since we had the place to ourselves, I felt completely comfortable taking plenty of pics-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0483.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0485.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0486.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0487-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0488.jpg

The little secluded drinking nook-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0489.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0490.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0491.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0492.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0493.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0494.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0496.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0497.jpg

The view is breathtaking. I finished my cocktail and said goodnight to my new friend Holly and the English gentleman I was sitting at the bar with (who was on the last night of his 3 week BLT holiday. Aaaahhhh to be rich and British! Love those long vacations! WOW!!) Somewhere along the way, i took a photo of the chandelier...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0500-1.jpg

OOps- I didn't need to go all the way down to the bottom, I could have just gotten off on the 4th floor. DUH. Anyway, back at the room, the Ts were still not there, so I went over to find them in the arcade. Looks like they were getting their nickel's worth!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0120.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0121.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0122.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0123.jpg

We headed back to BLT, but first the Ts needed to take a nap in the Contemporary-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0125.jpg

Aaahhhh...home at last-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_110906summer0127.jpg

And then to bed, where we all got a good night's sleep- well, except for Pods, of course. Who I had convinced to try staying in the king- but he got kicked out by Sean at some point that night, so once again, it was the pull-out for him! :rotfl:

Tomorrow- breakfast at Kona Cafe and those Tea cups are FINALLY open!!

[areck]

Wow Wow Wow! I love the photos. Thank you for sharing. Hopefully, some day, they'll allow non DVCers, like me, to go up and enjoy the view with a few cocktails.

This past October , my husband and ,now 13 year old, son were at the Contemporary Arcade. That particular night it was packed. They enjoyed themselves immensely. I couldn't help it, I had to play SKEE BALL (pathetic, I know).


Enjoy the snow tomorrow! Monmouth County is getting blasted again! :eek::

[MEK]

Hi 'Rita!! :wave2:

I second that! That looks like one yummy Rita! Great pictures. So warm, so tropical, so sunny, so no snow!

Going to read your update now!

[MEK]

Great updates. TOWL looks amazing. I forgot all about that place. Just another reason why I have to get to BLT. Wow - talk about a private bar with amazing views. That place looks so cool.

Sorry you missed the fireworks from TOWL. You crack me up with your inability to time fireworks correctly. That's so funny.:rotfl: I'm pretty bad with fireworks, too. And I always seem to get in someone's way.

Chef Mickey's....I guess you can cross that off your list for the future. I know my boys hit an age when they definately became too cool for the characters. Then they get a little older and they like them again. Teens? :confused3

[praisehisname]

I loved seeing the IOA pics from 2005; the boys have grown so much!

Mythos sounds really good; you made some great choices!


But just to be clear- the Darkside rocks!

:lmao: Maybe someday we'll check it out...:rolleyes1


Get ready to view the bazillion pics I took of the villa, it could take a while!

Absolutely gorgeous! I didn't think I would like the "feel" of BLT, but now I think differently!

TOWL sounds like a perfect place to end the evening!

Looks like you had a lot of fun at STJ!

Denise

[podsnel]

Great updates. TOWL looks amazing. I forgot all about that place. Just another reason why I have to get to BLT. Wow - talk about a private bar with amazing views. That place looks so cool.

Sorry you missed the fireworks from TOWL. You crack me up with your inability to time fireworks correctly. That's so funny.:rotfl: I'm pretty bad with fireworks, too. And I always seem to get in someone's way.

Chef Mickey's....I guess you can cross that off your list for the future. I know my boys hit an age when they definately became too cool for the characters. Then they get a little older and they like them again. Teens? :confused3

The TOWL was really amazing- I went back the next night with Pods, and it was alot more crowded because of a Steelers game. I've read a couple of people have snuck up there that were DVC members and not stayingat BLT- I hope they change it so that this will be possible in the future. They need more business, it is such a waste for it to be so empty. Holly said that it was busy every night for Wishes, or when there was a game on, but that's about it.

And thanks for the tip on the characters- I do hope they get excited about them again one day.

I loved seeing the IOA pics from 2005; the boys have grown so much!

Mythos sounds really good; you made some great choices!




:lmao: Maybe someday we'll check it out...:rolleyes1




Absolutely gorgeous! I didn't think I would like the "feel" of BLT, but now I think differently!

TOWL sounds like a perfect place to end the evening!

Looks like you had a lot of fun at STJ!

Denise

STJ was amazing- today we are being hit by a noreaster, and while the snow is peaceful and beautiful (and very welcome in light of the fact that we are skiing this weekend in the Poconos) I'd rather be back in snowless STJ!!!

BLT is fabulous- I think we may book our whole next family vacation there, if I can switch at 7 months. And this time we'll be having dinner somewhere other than CM's! But breakfast at KC? I think that may be a must-do for me on every trip from now on! YUM!!!:thumbsup2

[podsnel]

Wow Wow Wow! I love the photos. Thank you for sharing. Hopefully, some day, they'll allow non DVCers, like me, to go up and enjoy the view with a few cocktails.

This past October , my husband and ,now 13 year old, son were at the Contemporary Arcade. That particular night it was packed. They enjoyed themselves immensely. I couldn't help it, I had to play SKEE BALL (pathetic, I know).


Enjoy the snow tomorrow! Monmouth County is getting blasted again! :eek::

Hey! How's the snow? We're up to 5 or 6 inches- and the worst of it is still to come, they say. Such a crazy year- we have gotten so much LESS snow than you in Monmouth County, and it is usually the other way around.

I would NEVER say you are pathetic for playing skeeball!! I LOVE skeeball- I'm from NJ always, and I think skeeball skills are a mandatory requirement in this state because of the boardwalk. :rotfl:

Have a fun snow day!

[areck]

We were out clearing the driveway at around 8 this morning. I'm going back out now to do a little shoveling (11 a.m.). The sleet/icy rain is making the snow VERY heavy. So we'll do this in shifts. I guess we also have 5-6 inches . Blizzard warnings from 12 noon on... And yeah, what's up with the switch with snow amounts? We're definitely not used to this. The warm air over the ocean usually spares us.

Ah yes, NJ born and raised too. I think Disney's Boardwalk should put a feature arcade on the "boards". I know ESPN has a few games but not NJ Boardwalk worthy. The Jersey Shore certainly has its plusses. :cool1:

[UGAFan0829]

Wow, I can't believe I missed so much! But, finally I'm all caught up, and have loved every bit of it, as always!! I'm glad that you made it back to the mothership after spending time on the dark side...even though you've tempted me to try the dark side one day!!
BLT is beautiful!! Sorry that you missed Wishes!
And I can't wait to hear about breakfast at Kona...We have an ADR there for our trip next month, and I can't wait to try the Tonga Toast!

[podsnel]

On Monday morning, The Ts and I were going to do something we had never done together at WDW before- we were going to go out to breakfast. :banana: I know that sounds CRAZY- I mean, EVERYONE goes out to breakfast at WDW, right? Well....when one of your kids eats only french fries in restaurants, and you really don't want him having french fries for breakfast (he eats nutrigrain bars for that meal) you end up skipping that meal always. But it occured to me that the 3 of us could go and have breakfast and Pods & Sean could just meet us a little later in the MK. Because I couldn't take it anymore. All the food porn on the DIS had finally gotten me. I had to try Tonga Toast and Macadamia Nut pancakes! Sooo....we headed over to the CR to hop on the monorail-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0501.jpg

And were quickly stepping off at the Poly.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0502.jpg

We were perfectly on time for our 9am ADR.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0503.jpg

And the restaurant was dead empty!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0504.jpg

We were seated and ordered pretty quickly- our cousin (are the CM's cousins here, too?) was very mellow and attentive. Tyler the Strawberry king ordered his usual-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0505.jpg

And I enjoyed the press pot of Kona coffee- maybe the first kona coffee I have had since I was in Hawaii on my honeymoon 23 years ago-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0506.jpg

Timmy ordered plain french toast-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0507.jpg

And Tyler ordered the Tonga (of course, i told him what he would be eating, he had no say in the matter!):rotfl: While I knew he would love it, I knew it would be waaaaaay too sweet for my tastebuds- but that didn't mean I didn't want to try it!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0508.jpg

I explained to the Strawberry King that he could pour the Strawberry Sauce on, but he chose syrup at first-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0509.jpg

And he was in love! I had gotten the Macadamia Nut Pancakes-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0510-1.jpg

I don't even have words to describe how incredibly delicious these were!! They were more savory than sweet (which I like) and just so, sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo amazing!! I love these pancakes. In a world where carbs and fat are good I would make them a staple of my diet. :worship: On maybe an hourly basis. Anyway, i will be making a BIG point of eating at KC for breakfast again in the future...and again...and again... They brought me bacon instead of sausage, so a minute later they brought out some sausage for me. Which i barely touched, because I was too committed to the pancakes. But Timmy was happy about it, because he polished off a LOT of sausage AND bacon that morning! Tyler finally saw the error of his syrup-ways, and poured on some strawberry-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0512.jpg

And while that close-up may look disgusting, here is his reaction to the first bite-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/2009_111006summer0513.jpg

I called Pods just as we were paying the check- and he was actually on the monorail. So they hopped off to meet us at the Poly, and we all headed over to MK together. PERFECT!!

Next up- Timmy pays a visit to the barbershop- Oh YEA!!!:thumbsup2

[UGAFan0829]

OMG...WOW...that Tonga Toast looks amazing! I so cannot wait to try it!!! I'm glad that you enjoyed your pancakes as well!!

[podsnel]

We were out clearing the driveway at around 8 this morning. I'm going back out now to do a little shoveling (11 a.m.). The sleet/icy rain is making the snow VERY heavy. So we'll do this in shifts. I guess we also have 5-6 inches . Blizzard warnings from 12 noon on... And yeah, what's up with the switch with snow amounts? We're definitely not used to this. The warm air over the ocean usually spares us.

Ah yes, NJ born and raised too. I think Disney's Boardwalk should put a feature arcade on the "boards". I know ESPN has a few games but not NJ Boardwalk worthy. The Jersey Shore certainly has its plusses. :cool1:

Hey! So how did you make out in the snow? We totaled 16", and got 2 days out of it-:woohoo: So actually, that means Tyler & Timmy are off of school until Tuesday- Sean has school tomorrow. I am pretty happy about it, i have to say!!

Totally agree about Disney's Boardwalk upping the games- the Disney version doesn't make the clicking/whirring sound the NJ one does (from all the game wheels spinning) and it's missing the food- it needs sausage & peppers and clam huts! I never really thought about it before, but maybe that's why i don't really "get" the Disney version- I always feel like (please don't flame me!) something is missing. :confused3 Although, I do think it's much prettier and cleaner, that's for sure!! :thumbsup2

Wow, I can't believe I missed so much! But, finally I'm all caught up, and have loved every bit of it, as always!! I'm glad that you made it back to the mothership after spending time on the dark side...even though you've tempted me to try the dark side one day!!
BLT is beautiful!! Sorry that you missed Wishes!
And I can't wait to hear about breakfast at Kona...We have an ADR there for our trip next month, and I can't wait to try the Tonga Toast!

Thanks for all the kind words!! And don't feel that bad for me missing Wishes- it's not like I've never seen it. This is a relatively new development in my life- really since joining DVC. Maybe it has to do with that i know I'll see them again someday in the back of my hectic brain! Actually, i DO know I saw them in full in 2005- Pods took Tim & Sean back to the Beach Club and I asked Tyler if he would stay with me to watch Wishes. He said, "Sure Mommy, I'll stay with you." And when he did it, he looked like this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/WDW%20Nov%2009/Disney2005-036.jpg

because i took his pic 2 seconds after everyone left. Isn't he sweet? :love:

Hope you enjoy Kona as much as we did- I have plans to go in May, need to figure out with the other DISmoms who want to go when they want to fit it in!