Thank God For Trip Insurance; Our Merry Land/Sea! (Two new updates October 3)

[pmama]

Well we are home after a outstanding once in a lifetime trip for the third year in a row!:woohoo: This was our first trip during the Holidays and it did not disappoint!:santa:

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/343.jpg

As in the year prior everything did not go exactly as planned but we still had a tremendous time. For those that read last year's TR you know that I broke both my arms right before our 10 night September trip. This year we thought we all stayed in one piece before the trip but had a couple hiccups toward the end that caused us to have to stay an additional (not so fun) two days.

For those who enjoy PTRs here is a link to mine for this trip: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2238868

And for those of you that haven't read a long here is the cast of characters:

DH~ Original Disney Lover that converted me and now rides along with my
Disney Obsession.


ME~ Obvious Disney Lover, Proud Mom to two adorable girls, Lucky Wife to an amazing husband, and 5th grade teacher.


DD9~ Loves Disney, High School Musical, and Tinkerbell. New favorite Disney Princess is Princess Tiana.


DD5~ Lucky enough to have been traveling to Disney yearly as long as she can remember. She loves Cinderrella and Ariel.

Here's us at MNSSHP last year.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/image330.jpg

Our trip was originally 10 nights but turned out to be 12 nights. We did 6 nights on land at WDW followed by 3 nights on the Disney Wonder followed by 3 nights back on Land. We were able to visit all four parks, MVMCP, and even the DIS private party at HS.

:thanks: for reading along. Can't wait to share all of our holiday experiences from WDW and the Disney Wonder!

[KatMark]

I'm here to follow your report. You have a lbeautiful family and I can't wait to hear about your trip for the holidays.

[*Seanaci*]

I'm on board for this trippie. I've LOVED reading your other ones. ^_^

[pmama]

I'm here to follow your report. You have a lbeautiful family and I can't wait to hear about your trip for the holidays.

:wave:Welcome!

I'm on board for this trippie. I've LOVED reading your other ones. ^_^

Thanks, I'm looking forward to sharing our fun.

[pmama]

Hi all, I've uploaded the pics and am looking forward to sharing our trip. It's great looking back at the pics and even more fun reliving it by writing a TR. The end events left a pretty sour taste in our mouth but when I look back at the pictures I remember how much of a blast we had for most of the trip.


This was the first time our flight was at the end of the day. We added on a night when free dining came out. I liked this. It really was a bonus night. It allowed us to not have to get up super early for the flight and made our first real day there a full day. So, I'm calling this First Night as it really wasn't our first day. DD9 went to school for a half day and DH went to work. This allowed me to do my last minute scrambling. And boy was I scrambling. I had worked over 12 hours the day before and was too tired when I got home to finish with all the last minute packing. So I went to bed. I then woke up at 2 a.m. and got to work. I ran around getting everything ready up until 1 p.m. when we left. Crazy huh?:confused3 It really does make a difference to be a working woman this time around. I've learned that I need to take care of every tiny detail possible far ahead of time. Things that I thought wouldn't take very long all added up. I found myself making a fast run to Walgreens for makeup right as we were supposed to be leaving. I was also taking care of work things up till the last minute as well.

We did make it to our 4:15 p.m. flight in plenty of time! I love this picture of DH and his screen glasses. I'm not sure what they're called but when he puts them on it looks like you're watching a full screen movie.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/035.jpg

Here we are on MCO's mini monorail. It was a different experience to arrive in the dark. Not to mention, the girls and I had so much fun looking at star constellations from the plane.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/036.jpg

Our plane arrived about 9:40p.m. Orlando time. ME stops transfering luggage at 10p.m. We could have allowed them to get the luggage but I was nervous about how close to the cutoff time we were and I also didn't want to be awoken in the middle of the night when they dropped of the luggage. So, we made our way to baggage claim and got lost a couple times. If I could do it again I would have left it for ME. It was a headache. We did however walk through the Hyatt area which we had never crossed before. Very pretty.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/038-1.jpg

I had originally made reservations here for the night before we departed but canceled them. Some time when we arrive late or leave early we may try this lovely hotel. The pictures of the pool on top look awesome.

We loved how there were no lines for ME this time of night. We walked on our bus but did have to wait about 20 minutes for more people. When we finally left the bus was not even 1/4 full. It had 3-4 stops but we were happy to hear that we were the first.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/040.jpg

There really is something "magicial" about Magic Express. It's the first time where it really hits me that I've made it! I'm in WDW.

As we approached Pop Century I pointed it out to Faith (DD5) out the window. The bus was very quiet as it was empty and dark. Faith yells out loud enough for everyone on the bus to hear, "We're here" with such excitement. It was sooo cute. Everyone on the bus laughed. It's one of those moments I'd like to tuck into my permanent memory of precious moments.;)

Check in was fast and easy (another bonus of late arrival). And we were happy to hear we got the room I had requested via fax. Same spot as last year but even better on 4th floor. Perfect view of Epcot and MK fireworks overlooking the lake! Love it! Even though it was late and we were quite tired we wanted to go get our mugs so we made our way to Classic Hall. Here we are with our new Mickey Mugs!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/043-1.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/045.jpg

At that time Tammy (OneTreeHillAdict) was there for the last night. We met in the food court. When I saw her family I turned to DH and said, "they look exactly like their pictures". Too funny, he just said, "well that's the idea". Very nice family. They gave both girls light up toys that they played with all week. We were all exhausted, us from our long travel, them from going to all four parks in one day. Faith refused to get in the picture.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/047-2-1.jpghttp://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/048-3-1.jpg

We brought almost a whole suitcase with wrapped gifts each labeled according to what day they should open them. I'll have to upload that picture later. I even brought a tiny light up tree. The girls received their first present this night.

It was Tinkerbell nightgown for DD9 and Cinderella for DD5. They loved these.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/056-1-1.jpghttp://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/057-1-1.jpg

Pretty quickly after putting on our pjs we were out. It had been a long day for us all.
Our delivery from garden grocer with water and breakfast/snack items was also brought to our room.

The next morning we had the latest possible reservations from breakfast at Chef Mickey's. We all loved hearing our first wake up call from Mickey for the trip. So of course the girls had to dress up for the occasion! Our first Disney bus ride to the MK this trip.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/058.jpg

They really missed not visiting CM last year. I was not impressed with dinner there in 2007. We tried breakfast this time and I would definitely recommend breakfast over dinner.

We were pretty much done with breakfast when the characters finally came around but once they came they came pretty quickly. Mickey touched both the girls' noses as he walked by.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/062-1.jpg

Before we knew it, it was napkin swirling time!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/064-1.jpg

First came Pluto, (the light behind us made for some dark pictures).
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/067.jpg

Faith (DD5) reminded me how he patted her head at MNSSHP last year. It is one of those moment that must have really stood out for her as she mentions it all the time.

Next up Goofy!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/072.jpg

Mickey!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/082.jpg

And Minnie!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/084.jpg


We were impressed with this huge Mickey head wreath that could be seen from the monorail as you are entering Contemporary.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/085-1.jpg

Next Up:hourglass We head on the monorail for our first day at ........... EPCOT!

[cdotla]

Whoo hooo!!!! So glad to hear that your trip was great! Can't wait to hear all about it!!!:goodvibes

LOL - I love hearing other people are doing the last minute packing and preparation marathon til the last minute like me. I really should take your advise and try to get finished early this year!

Not liking that title about the trip insurance and the extra unhappy days at the end...hopefully nothing too bad!

Can't wait to hear all about everything! And Happy belated Christmas to you and your Family!:goodvibes

[ladybugmom]

YAY!!! I am soooo excited to read your TR, Brooke (especially since we're going next year around Christmas)!! But you have me worried about what happened at the end! I'm assuming everything is ok now?! LOVE the first update!! How fun that you got to meet Tammy and her family!! We did Chef Mickey's for breakfast on our last trip--soooo fun! I wore that same shirt you wore when we ate there! And the girls look adorable as ever in their outfits!! :lovestruc Can't WAIT to read more!!!! :goodvibes

[MAJ RN]

I am in for your trip report. I love the girls first gifts, the nightgowns are so cute! Can't wait to read more!!

Melissa

[*Seanaci*]

Afternoon/evening/night arrivals are so much better. That's about what we did last year...which made our first full day in the park that much better! We weren't so tired from travelling and then hopping into a park.

Your girls are just precious!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Welcome back! Sounds great so far. Can't wait to read the rest!

[MaryAz]

Been lurking,now posting. Great start to your TR. Girls are so cute. Can't wait to read along. We are planning a Christmas trip next year!

[BippityBoo]

Yay! I am in!! I am with Becky...SO worried about your last two days! I hope you guys were ok :goodvibes SO interested in hearing about Christmas WDW AND the cruise!!

[gellybean]

I'm so in!! Can't wait to read more and you're really doing a good job building the suspense for whatever happens at the end of the trip!!! Now all kinds of things are running through my head !! :confused: :rotfl:


Your girls are TOO Cute!!

[princess&her4princes]

Yay! You started...going back to read now! Hope you had a wonderful time and a Merry Christmas!!:santa:

[JPFamilyMom]

subbing in for your new adventure. I missed keeping up with the PTR again but am here for the journey.
As always your family is just darling. What a great start to your trip and your TR so far. Can't wait to read more.

[morgtroy]

Great Start, can't wait to read along. Seems like every trip has some issues, but the fun out weighs it by far. We had a car accident on our way home in March and it really put a huge cloud over the end of a wonderful vacation. Weeks later digging thru the photos, I was back "in" all the fun we had.
Very nice meeting your family, can't wait til the cruise.:)

[WDWPrincess486]

Subbing...I've lurked on your PTR but definitely joining in to hear about your trip!! Sorry to hear that things did not go according to plan at the very end, but it's great that you still had a wonderful trip and a lot of fun!! Glad that you're all home safely and can't wait to read more... :goodvibes

[DisneyCP08]

Great start, I am soooo excited to hear about the trip. We had an issue on the very last day of our day at Animal Kingdom and my mom ended up going to the emergency room and coming home in a wheelchair:scared1:. But when we look back it still was a really good trip.

[pmama]

Whoo hooo!!!! So glad to hear that your trip was great! Can't wait to hear all about it!!!:goodvibes

LOL - I love hearing other people are doing the last minute packing and preparation marathon til the last minute like me. I really should take your advise and try to get finished early this year!

Not liking that title about the trip insurance and the extra unhappy days at the end...hopefully nothing too bad!

Can't wait to hear all about everything! And Happy belated Christmas to you and your Family!:goodvibes

Packing is a huge feet. I took way too much this year. Hope to be more organized next time.

YAY!!! I am soooo excited to read your TR, Brooke (especially since we're going next year around Christmas)!! But you have me worried about what happened at the end! I'm assuming everything is ok now?! LOVE the first update!! How fun that you got to meet Tammy and her family!! We did Chef Mickey's for breakfast on our last trip--soooo fun! I wore that same shirt you wore when we ate there! And the girls look adorable as ever in their outfits!! :lovestruc Can't WAIT to read more!!!! :goodvibes

What, are you going May and December?:yay:

I am in for your trip report. I love the girls first gifts, the nightgowns are so cute! Can't wait to read more!!

Melissa

Thanks, they had pointed out the nightgowns a few months earlier but did not know that I purchased them.

Afternoon/evening/night arrivals are so much better. That's about what we did last year...which made our first full day in the park that much better! We weren't so tired from travelling and then hopping into a park.

Your girls are just precious!

It's true. I may stick with the whole evening thing when possible.

Welcome back! Sounds great so far. Can't wait to read the rest!

Thanks a bunch.:goodvibes

Been lurking,now posting. Great start to your TR. Girls are so cute. Can't wait to read along. We are planning a Christmas trip next year!

Hi Mary, glad you're still around.

Yay! I am in!! I am with Becky...SO worried about your last two days! I hope you guys were ok :goodvibes SO interested in hearing about Christmas WDW AND the cruise!!

Looking forward to sharing it all with you.:goodvibes

I'm so in!! Can't wait to read more and you're really doing a good job building the suspense for whatever happens at the end of the trip!!! Now all kinds of things are running through my head !! :confused: :rotfl:


Your girls are TOO Cute!!

Thanks too funny. I guess our ending does at least make for good storytelling.:rotfl2:

Yay! You started...going back to read now! Hope you had a wonderful time and a Merry Christmas!!:santa:

Merry Christmas. I stopped by your thread and it looks like you've been VERY sick. I am so sorry to hear this, especially during the holidays. Hope you're feeling better now.

subbing in for your new adventure. I missed keeping up with the PTR again but am here for the journey.
As always your family is just darling. What a great start to your trip and your TR so far. Can't wait to read more.

Glad you're joining along, I agree. . TRs are much funner to read than PTRs.

[heaven2dc]

I definitely am subbing to this one! The girls look so cute with Minnie! You had a great idea by arriving the night before a full park day. I have contemplated this before but since our flight is only 2 hrs away, I couldn't stand not going to a park the first day! But traveling with little ones does make a difference and you were smart to get your rest :thumbsup2

[pmama]

Great Start, can't wait to read along. Seems like every trip has some issues, but the fun out weighs it by far. We had a car accident on our way home in March and it really put a huge cloud over the end of a wonderful vacation. Weeks later digging thru the photos, I was back "in" all the fun we had.
Very nice meeting your family, can't wait til the cruise.:)

I enjoyed meeting you as well. Did they honor your reservations at Ohana?

Subbing...I've lurked on your PTR but definitely joining in to hear about your trip!! Sorry to hear that things did not go according to plan at the very end, but it's great that you still had a wonderful trip and a lot of fun!! Glad that you're all home safely and can't wait to read more... :goodvibes

Thanks for joining!:goodvibes

Great start, I am soooo excited to hear about the trip. We had an issue on the very last day of our day at Animal Kingdom and my mom ended up going to the emergency room and coming home in a wheelchair:scared1:. But when we look back it still was a really good trip.

Oh my, that does sound like a terrible ending. Poor Mom.:sad2: Thanks for joining.

[pmama]

I definitely am subbing to this one! The girls look so cute with Minnie! You had a great idea by arriving the night before a full park day. I have contemplated this before but since our flight is only 2 hrs away, I couldn't stand not going to a park the first day! But traveling with little ones does make a difference and you were smart to get your rest :thumbsup2

Thanks for subbing! Thanks. We loved the extra time we got on our first full day. Otherwise we would not have arrived until around dinner time in Orlando.

[pmama]

So, last post we left off on the monorail to Epcot after a great breakfast with Mickey and Friends at Chef Mickey’s. We relied on the photopass people for family pictures so I can’t really share those until I get that. So, can’t show you the festive entrance just yet… sorry. Our first mission was to go fast pass test track. What I noticed this year is that we were all far more relaxed. In years prior I would have thought it such a waste of time for us all to mosey our way to the back for a fast pass but we enjoyed walking along together and taking in our first day at the park. Finally we made our way back to ride Spaceship Earth.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/087.jpg

I then took a picture of Faith and I thinking she was smiling and saw this.:lmao:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/088.jpg

She couldn’t remember the ride from last year and was afraid that it was going to be a fast moving roller coaster. I assured her that it was just fine and eventually she started to enjoy the ride.
Love the little videos with our pictures!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/093.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/094.jpg

When we came out we saw the Jaminators finishing up. Of course it was Junior Jaminator day and the girls each got stickers.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/097.jpg

Next up we entered the clam for the Nemo ride! Crowds were pretty low, we didn’t have much of a wait.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/098-2.jpg

When we got out there was a crowd waiting for Turtle Talk with Crush. We saw that there would be plenty of room so we went to take one of our yearly pictures. Sometime I’ll have to compare these pictures year to year to see how they change.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/102-1.jpg

After watching Turtle Talk with Crush we made our way out to another favorite photo spot. http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/105.jpg

We stopped by Club Cool but didn’t stay very long as the floors were all sticky and it was kinda gross sticking to the floor as you walked around.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/106.jpg

We noticed the Gospel Group would be doing a performance soon so we got some ice cream treats and watched the show. They were amazing and very entertaining. Also refreshing to hear Jesus’ name sung out loud so much in a public place. We all really enjoyed listening to them.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/107.jpg

It was fantastically hot. We loved it. We had just come from two weeks solid in Colorado of solid freezing temperatures. At about this point Faith was done and wanted to go back to our hotel. I was a little worried as we had a very late night planned.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/108.jpg

Next up our Fast Pass time was up for Test Track (a family favorite).
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/109.jpg

We took a little time to explore the cars before exiting.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/111.jpg

We then went to get FastPasses for Soarin. On the way I looked down at Faith and found this.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/112.jpg

I was a little surprised that she had dropped already. She has not taken mid-day naps in a couple years now. We also had slept in and went to late breakfast. I think her body was still a little tired from the travel the day before and adjusting to Orlando time. We decided that this would be a good time for Hope to try out the Kim Possible Mission. She had been looking forward to that. As we past the tree we stopped for pictures. We even had a photopass person take a family picture with Faith sleeping in the stroller. As we were leaving one of her shoes fell off and we almost missed it. The photographer pointed it out and said that she must be Cinderella. I thought at first her was referring to her Minnie Mouse Costume and thought he really needs to study up on his princess before duh I realized he was referring to her losing a slipper. Too cute.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/113.jpg

After getting a slip for Kim Possible we were told to be in Norway in about 10 minutes so we made our way that way. Here is the man explaining to Hope how the process of her mission.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/114.jpg

So, what did we think about the Kim Possible Mission. Well …….. Hope loved it. I thought it was okay, DH hated it. While I think it is such a cute idea, and absolutely loved the little hidden things that would activate, the process is VERY slow. For the first 10 minutes I felt like we were standing in one spot listening to their messages. They would tell you to find a certain place that would literally be right where you already were just turn your body a bit. Then we’d read through more of a mission and turn our body a bit for the next thing. Hope definitely would like to give it a try another time so I guess it is a success for children. I like it but found the listening to the phone (standing around) to be a little excessive.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/121.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/118.jpg

In the middle of our mission the Norway Santa storytellers came out so we stopped to hear their story and Faith woke up.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/116.jpg

Here’s a picture of one of the phone activated thingermabobers. This flag raised in the background.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/122.jpg

We also had a statue speak to us and our picture taken from a spy camera that showed up on the phone.

After completing the mission we returned the phone and rode the cute little boat ride in Norway. As we were waiting in line I decided to look up our dining times that I had saved to DH’s phone. In my head our dinner reservations was 5-5:15. When I found the time it said 4:30. It was currently 4:25 and we were trapped in the line. DH wanted to climb over a wall to get out. I know that they usually give at least 10 minutes after the res. time and thought we would be fine.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/123.jpg
I forgot one important thing though. They trap you when you get off this ride for several minutes :scared1: until the little Norway show is done then you have to walk through the seating area if you choose not to stay for their short little show.


Up Next:hourglass Do we make it in time for our Teppan Edo reservations.

[KatMark]

Great update! I love the outfit on the girls--too cute.

[miprender]

Followed you over....:surfweb: can't wait to read more and see what happened. I hope nothing too serious.:goodvibes

[*Seanaci*]

Wow...Faith looks so much like you...and Hope looks like DH. :D They're so cute! And I love that they dress in their Disney dresses! I so can't wait to have a little girl. :D

[WDWCrazyfromGA]

I LOVE, LOVE your TR (and enjoyed your PTR as well!) What room did you request at POP? We love POP, but we have never stayed on the lake side before.

I'm looking forward to the rest for your TR!!

Have a Happy New Year!!

[OurDogCisco]

I'm in! Loving your trip reports so far. Now, I'm gonna go back and read one your old ones...

[MAJ RN]

Another great update! I love the girls Minnie Mouse outfits, darling!!! The picture of you and Faith on Spaceship Earth is funny, she looks terrified. My son wants to try the Kim Possible mission so I think we will do that in Feb, thanks for your take on that. Can't wait to read more.


Melissa

[MaryAz]

Looks like a fun day. Can't wait to hear about Teppan Edo.

[MarriedToAPrince]

Can't wait to read your TR. I remember your previous one with the 2 broken arms. I am sorry to hear that your trip ended badly but I am curious to hear the story.

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Looks like a great day! I agree with you on the Kim Possible Mission. It was way too much verbage for us too. But my DD didn't even care for it. After one country, she was pretty much done. It just didn't hold her attention.

Hooray for the singers. I told DH while we were in WDW last month that I loved that Disney really celebrates "Christmas". They had a huge nativity scene a HS and a lot of the music we heard being sung and played while we were there was religous Christmas music. I just loved that they were not ashamed to celebrate Christmas for what it is and were not trying to be politically correct! What a breath of fresh air!

Can't wait to read more.

[Princess_K]

I was so excited to see you had another TR! I have really enjoyed reading your previous ones. Can't wait for the next installment!

[cdotla]

I'm betting Teppan Edo doesn't show you the door.:rotfl:

Can't wait to hear your review. I am on the fence about this due to the kids for our next trip.

[pmama]

Great update! I love the outfit on the girls--too cute.

Thanks, we love Minnie.;)

Followed you over....:surfweb: can't wait to read more and see what happened. I hope nothing too serious.:goodvibes

Glad you made it over, thanks for sticking around.

Wow...Faith looks so much like you...and Hope looks like DH. :D They're so cute! And I love that they dress in their Disney dresses! I so can't wait to have a little girl. :D

Yes, we agree with you. The girls looked a lot alike as babies but as they get older it is clear who they look more like. It's nice that we each have one that looks familiar.:lmao:

I LOVE, LOVE your TR (and enjoyed your PTR as well!) What room did you request at POP? We love POP, but we have never stayed on the lake side before.

I'm looking forward to the rest for your TR!!

Have a Happy New Year!!

I request building 3 preferably 4th floor with view of lake facing Epcot. There are also a lot more good viewing spots in I thinking Building 2. Check out the Pop thread on the resorts forum. The first page toward the bottom even gives a nice map of good room locations.

I'm in! Loving your trip reports so far. Now, I'm gonna go back and read one your old ones...

Oh, thanks. I've heard the "broken arm" TR takes three hours to read. Honored you're interested.

Another great update! I love the girls Minnie Mouse outfits, darling!!! The picture of you and Faith on Spaceship Earth is funny, she looks terrified. My son wants to try the Kim Possible mission so I think we will do that in Feb, thanks for your take on that. Can't wait to read more.

Melissa

I agree, Faith's face is too funny! :rotfl2: Especially for that ride.

Looks like a fun day. Can't wait to hear about Teppan Edo.

Thanks a bunch!;)

[pmama]

Can't wait to read your TR. I remember your previous one with the 2 broken arms. I am sorry to hear that your trip ended badly but I am curious to hear the story.

Glad to have you along.

Looks like a great day! I agree with you on the Kim Possible Mission. It was way too much verbage for us too. But my DD didn't even care for it. After one country, she was pretty much done. It just didn't hold her attention.

Hooray for the singers. I told DH while we were in WDW last month that I loved that Disney really celebrates "Christmas". They had a huge nativity scene a HS and a lot of the music we heard being sung and played while we were there was religous Christmas music. I just loved that they were not ashamed to celebrate Christmas for what it is and were not trying to be politically correct! What a breath of fresh air!

Can't wait to read more.

"verbage" pefect description! Why didn't I think of that? I thought perhaps there was something wrong with DH and I as most all the reports I've read of the Missions is favorable. Saw the Nativity in HS and took a pic.;)

I was so excited to see you had another TR! I have really enjoyed reading your previous ones. Can't wait for the next installment!

Thanks for reading along again.:yay:

I'm betting Teppan Edo doesn't show you the door.:rotfl:

Can't wait to hear your review. I am on the fence about this due to the kids for our next trip.

Hmmmm....you're a better huh?;)

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Hey!!! I'm so glad you started your trip report! Can't wait to read along! I'm so glad we were able to meet up! :goodvibes BTW you guys look just like you do in pictures too! ;)

[ladybugmom]

What, are you going May and December?:yay:

YES!!! I'm sooo excited!!! :woohoo:

[ladybugmom]

Great update!! Can't wait to hear more--especially about your dinner at Teppan Edo!! :goodvibes

[pmama]

Hey!!! I'm so glad you started your trip report! Can't wait to read along! I'm so glad we were able to meet up! :goodvibes BTW you guys look just like you do in pictures too! ;)

:lmao: Funny concept huh? It was great to meet you in person as well! Are you doing a TR this time?

YES!!! I'm sooo excited!!! :woohoo:

That is exciting. What fun you wil have planning this year.:goodvibes

[pmama]

We left off at the Norway ride Maelstrom currently late for our dinner reservations at Teppan Edo. So as our little boat was coming to the end we saw the theatre doors open and people walking in. As soon as we got off our boat we ran for the doors just as they were closing.:eek: We tried to go through the exit doors and a cast member wouldn’t let us even though we told him we were late for our reservations. I’m not sure how long the wait is. The Cast Member said two minutes, it was definitely much more than 2 minutes and felt like forever as we were waiting for those doors to open.
Finally the doors opened and we rushed through to make our way to Japan. We had to pass the large crowd around America that was gathering to line up for the first CP show. It was crowded and took quite a while to make it to Teppan Edo. We finally made it and I think by the time I checked in we were about 20 minutes late. Ironically as we came in another party was being turned away because they were too late. They were told that their reservations had been given to someone else. I went up to another lady who took my name and reservation time and did not mention at all that we were late. Thank Goodness!

This was our first time dining at TE and can I just say that it is now on my must do list! We all loved it. DH was a bit scared of this place as he does not enjoy oriental food. I told him I’ve heard they have the best steak. He ordered the filet minon and confirmed that indeed it was the best steak he had for the entire trip. Our waitress made the girls’ chopsticks stick together on an end so they could eat with them.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/132.jpg

The Chef was very entertaining. Here’s the onion volcano.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/131.jpg

We enjoyed visiting with our table mates. We sat with a couple women and a single man and single woman who were each traveling alone. Everyone was a Disney vet so we had some good conversations. The women were going on a back to back Magic Cruise this summer. (I’m jealous) A good time was had by all and it was great food! DD8 is a very picky eater. She didn't like all the sesame seeds but everyone left with a full stomach.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/133.jpg

As we walked out they were about to begin the second showing of Candlelight Processional. We found room at the rope for standing room only. We enjoyed the first couple songs but Faith kept moaning out loud, “I’m bored”. I was glad we did not stand in line for over an hour because while it was beautiful it is true that young children get bored fast. As we were watching I was holding Faith up. This young teenage couple motioned for a friend who had been out getting a drink to come join them. So, he cut through the crowd and proceeded to come stand in front of me. By that time I’d been standing there for over 15 minutes holding my not too light 5 year old. He completely blocked our view. So, I said, “I am sorry but I hope you’re not planning on standing there.” I will give the young man credit he immediately moved out of the crowd and to the back. I think it was more the young couple that were rude in thinking they could motion him to stand right in front of me. So, glad we got to take in some of the Candlelight Processional, we moved on.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/135.jpg

As we were passing Germany we saw people gathering for the storyteller and waited to hear her speak. All I remember about her was how many times she mentioned “gluevine” (No idea how it is actually spelled.) Their special wine. We got a great shot with her and the nutcracker though.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/141.jpg

Then we made our way to Mexico and saw the Mexico wise men storytellers out.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/144.jpg

We stopped in Mexico to go ride the cute little boat ride.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/149.jpg

We then decided to call it a night to Epcot and head out the International Gateway to check out Boardwalk. We had never used the International Gateway. We had to ask where it was. As we headed out DH asked the lady what ride we were entering. She looked worried but quickly realized he was teasing.;)

We had never been out on Boardwalk at all and I had heard that it could be a fun atmosphere at night. It was fun for all of us to discover a new area of Disney we had never seen. It is quite beautiful at night.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/151.jpg

We went in to Boardwalk and discovered this beautiful completely edible gingerbread display.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/156.jpg

The girls loved all the little kid sized chairs around Boardwalk both inside and out.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/158.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/164.jpg

Boardwalk is fun at night we saw a couple different street performers with a crowd. It’s a lot calmer atmosphere than in the parks. After exploring Boardwalk for a while we made our way to the ferry that takes you to Hollywood Studios!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/166.jpg

This was another first for us. It was a beautiful ride. The girls wanted to sit in the outside portion. It was a warm night so we sat out there and enjoyed the view as we slowly floated to Hollywood Studios.

We arrived about 15 minutes early for the DIS TSM party! We had such a great time. It was a unique experience being in Hollywood Studios after it was closed for the day. I have great video of us leaving with completely empty streets that I’ll try to get up.

It looked like a lot of people when we were all at the gate but quickly dispersed and TSM was never more than 5-10 minute wait.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/169.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/171.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/172.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/173.jpg

We learned a new trick from the Cast Member. She said that getting a high score is really team work. Your score will be much higher if you sit with someone else who scores well. Together you both open up more high scoring targets. So, DH and I played together while the girls played together. We all improved our scores by about double before the night was over.

The only real line we stood in was the character greeting line. We got in line for Buzz and Woody but it was switched out before we got up there. That was okay, we’ve seen Buzz and Woody but have never had Jessie and Bullseye so it was a new photo op for us!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/182-1.jpg

There were great food items available which was great because so far we had had a late breakfast, early dinner(lunch), so this became dinner.

We were all pretty tired and ready to go when the girls became enthralled by the balloon man. He was very talented. I however, was really tired and tried to bribe the girls with the offer of buying a Mickey balloon in MK but they would not budge.

Finally after a very long wait the girls had their balloons.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/186.jpg
The Mickey balloons he made were particularly impressive.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/188.jpg

So, we ended our very magical first LONG day at Disney by walking alone through Hollywood Studios after midnight. It was such an unique and sureal experience. Here is a video of us leaving Hollywood Studios with completely empty streets. Just another of many magical moments!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_HollywoodStudiosTSMpartyemptystreet.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=HollywoodStudiosTSMpartyemptystreet.flv)

While waiting for the bus Faith once again drifted off to sleep. I was glad she had gotten in her power nap earlier that day because after that she really was a trooper.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/194.jpg
Hope was very exhausted at this point and she lay on the concrete with her head in my lap until the bus arrived.


Next up: MVMCP!!!!!!!!!!!

[*Seanaci*]

Glad to hear you made your TE reservation after all! Those places are soooooo fun!

Faith looked tired in the pic where she's holding her balloon.

I LOVE reading this TR. Brings back all my memories from our Christmas trip last year. :D

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Great update. Loved the Gingerbread house!

That was one serious onion volcano!

I've never heard of the Dis party. How did you get in for that?

The Boardwalk was beautiful. We didn't make it there this last time. Maybe next trip.

That Mickey balloon WAS very impressive!

Can't wait to hear more.

I've started a tr also. If you get a minute, stop by!

[ladybugmom]

WOW!! This update is packed full!! You got so much done that night! We want to visit the Boardwalk as well in May. It looks really pretty!! LOVE the gingerbread house--sooo cute!! What a fun time you had in HS!! TSM looks like sooo much fun--can't wait to ride that in May! And the Jessie/Bullseye photo op is sooo cute!! I'm not sure I've ever seen pics with them before!! :goodvibes Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!!!

[MAJ RN]

Glad you made it to your Teppan Edo ressie, that is one of our favorite!! That onion volcano was massive!! How fun to be at DHS after closing. Can't wait to read more.


Melissa

[cdotla]

Wow - what a rockin' night that was!

Glad to hear you liked Teppan Edo. I was leaning towards it, and your review doesn't hurt at all. Now the struggle to try and fit it into our schedule!:scared:

I love that walk at night from Epcot to BC-YC and BW. It is so beautiful and relaxing!

So jealous that you attended Dis-a-palooza. Did you see anyone you knew from the Boards?

I heard from the podcast how incredible the balloon man was but wasn't prepared for that incredible Mickey balloon. Amazing! I am like your daughters - I totally would have waiting in line for one!

Looking forward to the MVMCP update!:goodvibes

[coolmommy]

Just got caught up on both your pre trip and trip report. Can't wait to see how the cruise went- and the said 'hiccups' that added a day or two to your trip. popcorn::

[MaryAz]

Great update. Glad you liked Teppan Edo. Looks like a fun time at DHS!!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

That Mickey balloon was great! WOW! Teppan Edo is becoming the go to place these days. You used to be able to walk right in but not now. I'm a little bored with the presentation now that we go all the time but the food is so good. I think we ate there three times this past trip!

Oh, no more trip reports for me. Kind of got burnt out on them. Started a food review and never finished it. I keep saying that I will since we did the Grand Gatherings. I want to help people see what those were all about but I can't make myself do it. I'm trying to keep up with my reading though. ;)

[miprender]

Teppan Edo was on my list too for this upcoming April trip. However, we went to a local hibatchi resturant a few months ago and DS4 freaked out:scared1: when he saw all the fire.

When they came to our table I had to go outside with him he was screaming so loud. Oh well ....maybe we can try it in a few years.

:surfweb:Can't wait to read more. I can't believe all you did that first night. :thumbsup2 That's great.

[pmama]

Glad to hear you made your TE reservation after all! Those places are soooooo fun!

Faith looked tired in the pic where she's holding her balloon.

I LOVE reading this TR. Brings back all my memories from our Christmas trip last year. :D

Christmas time is beautiful in WDW.:goodvibes

Great update. Loved the Gingerbread house!

That was one serious onion volcano!

I've never heard of the Dis party. How did you get in for that?

The Boardwalk was beautiful. We didn't make it there this last time. Maybe next trip.

That Mickey balloon WAS very impressive!

Can't wait to hear more.

I've started a tr also. If you get a minute, stop by!

You must not listen to their podcast. I heard about the party on the podcast. They are really fun to listen to and have a good sense of humor. By switching our res. under dreamsunliminted we got to do the party for FREE!:banana:


WOW!! This update is packed full!! You got so much done that night! We want to visit the Boardwalk as well in May. It looks really pretty!! LOVE the gingerbread house--sooo cute!! What a fun time you had in HS!! TSM looks like sooo much fun--can't wait to ride that in May! And the Jessie/Bullseye photo op is sooo cute!! I'm not sure I've ever seen pics with them before!! :goodvibes Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!!!

Yep, it was a great first night.:thumbsup2

Glad you made it to your Teppan Edo ressie, that is one of our favorite!! That onion volcano was massive!! How fun to be at DHS after closing. Can't wait to read more.


Melissa

Loved the onion volcano!

[pmama]

Wow - what a rockin' night that was!

Glad to hear you liked Teppan Edo. I was leaning towards it, and your review doesn't hurt at all. Now the struggle to try and fit it into our schedule!:scared:

I love that walk at night from Epcot to BC-YC and BW. It is so beautiful and relaxing!

So jealous that you attended Dis-a-palooza. Did you see anyone you knew from the Boards?

I heard from the podcast how incredible the balloon man was but wasn't prepared for that incredible Mickey balloon. Amazing! I am like your daughters - I totally would have waiting in line for one!

Looking forward to the MVMCP update!:goodvibes

You're funny.:lmao: Too bad we had to leave the balloons behind when we went on the cruise. I was surprised that the whole night at the TSM party I only saw two families I recognized from the boards. I knew of others that were there but never noticed them.

Just got caught up on both your pre trip and trip report. Can't wait to see how the cruise went- and the said 'hiccups' that added a day or two to your trip. popcorn::
Thanks for reading along and posting.:goodvibes


Great update. Glad you liked Teppan Edo. Looks like a fun time at DHS!!

Teppan Edo is great!

That Mickey balloon was great! WOW! Teppan Edo is becoming the go to place these days. You used to be able to walk right in but not now. I'm a little bored with the presentation now that we go all the time but the food is so good. I think we ate there three times this past trip!

Oh, no more trip reports for me. Kind of got burnt out on them. Started a food review and never finished it. I keep saying that I will since we did the Grand Gatherings. I want to help people see what those were all about but I can't make myself do it. I'm trying to keep up with my reading though. ;)

Yep, I was surprised to find that this was the first visit where some of the new excitement was gone ever so slightly. I think we are planning to wait until after 2012 to return to WDW when the new Fantasyland is complete. We are however hoping to do another Disney Cruise before then. I do miss your TRs though.

Teppan Edo was on my list too for this upcoming April trip. However, we went to a local hibatchi resturant a few months ago and DS4 freaked out:scared1: when he saw all the fire.

When they came to our table I had to go outside with him he was screaming so loud. Oh well ....maybe we can try it in a few years.

:surfweb:Can't wait to read more. I can't believe all you did that first night. :thumbsup2 That's great.

Oh, your poor son. I guess it's good you figured that out before being at WDW.:goodvibes

[cdotla]

Oh, no more trip reports for me. Kind of got burnt out on them. Started a food review and never finished it. I keep saying that I will since we did the Grand Gatherings. I want to help people see what those were all about but I can't make myself do it. I'm trying to keep up with my reading though. ;)

Oh darn...I was hoping to see your TR for this visit.

I know what you mean about TR burn out though...I have only done reports for 2 of my last 6 trips. They definitely are time-consuming. It's been quite awhile since my last one though so I think I might do one for our next trip in April.;)

I hope you reconsider on your Grand Gathering trip...that would be a different perspective and I would love to hear your take on it!;)

In the meantime, I am so glad I have another one of Brooke's great reports to read! Can't wait for more!:goodvibes

[pmama]

Well, I'm going to take advantage of these last couple leisurely days before school resumes to update some more magical memories.

The plans for today were to sleep in as long as we possibly could then either go to AK or hang out at the pool before MVMCP. Unfortunately for some reason I slept miserably, or really didn't sleep. I ended up getting up super early before 6 after not sleeping well. I went and got some coffee and bought some post cards. I sat by the pool on a nice warm December morning and filled out a few postcards. I remember sending a text to my mother with a picture of people in the pool and a note about the wonderful weather. I then realized it was 5 a.m. back home ooops.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/197.jpg

After sipping my coffee by the pool I suddenly felt very tired and realized that there was no way I would make it today if I didn't force myself to get some rest. Two nights of not sleeping was starting to take it's tole. So, I made my way back to the room where everyone was still sleeping and fell asleep. About 30 minutes later they started waking up but I still felt so drained and tired. DH volunteered to take them to the pool while I tried to get some rest. After about an hour I made my way down to the pool to see how they were all doing. It was SOOO HOT and sunny, loved it!:beach: The girls were loving it too.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/199.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/198.jpg

So, I gave the girls the choice of visiting AK for a little bit before MVMCP or swimming longer. They chose swimming. So, DH and I hung out in the glorious heat near the pool and sipped our coffee while the girls had a blast swimming.

I had made reservations at Whispering Canyon for late lunch (2:30) just in case. These reservations turned out to be perfect.

We headed back to the room, showered, and the girls opened another gift.The gifts were the holiday dresses they are wearing and the Mickey Santa Hats.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/207.jpg

By then it was about 1:40 and we were worried about making the reservations in time. We would have to take a bus to MK then wait for a ferry boat to Wilderness Lodge. We decided that we would just take a taxi to insure we didn't miss the res. This was our first family taxi ride in Orlando and I was in cloud 9 with how convenient it was. You just walk out to the front and tell the bellman you need a taxi, he waves over a waiting taxi with his Mickey hand, and opens the door for you all while he tells the taxi driver where to take us. Our taxi driver didn't say one word but he did slow down when he realized I was taking a picture of the MK entrance.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/210.jpg

The girls were thrilled to be in a taxi too. Too funny.:goodvibes
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/208.jpg

I had to take this picture of DH sitting in the front with his Mickey Santa hat.:rotfl2:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/209.jpg

We were dropped off right out front of the Wilderness Lodge. I can't remember exactly but it was between $15-20 just like I've read in other reports. Totally worth it if you're looking to avoid long transit or are in a hurry. I could not believe when we entered the resort that it was not yet 2 p.m. We were now 30 minutes early.:cool1: We had never seen the geyser so I took the family out back in search of seeing the geyser erupt at the top of the hour.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/214.jpg

No one else was very fascinated by it but I was glad I got to see it. We then took a couple of pictures in front of the tree before checking in early.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/218.jpg

DH helped the girls build cabins with the logs.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/222.jpg

This is the beautiful view I had from my seating area as I dined.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/223.jpg

The girls enjoyed running around the room on the horses.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/224.jpg

I only take a picture of especially pretty food. This was DH's desert. yummy
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/225.jpg
Overall we thought our lunch here was okay but not worth our table service dining credits. The bill was only $60. If we'd been thinking we should have paid OOP and kept the table service credits. We didn't see any of the fun stuff like carrying ketchup from table to table or super big forks. Our waitress did not interact with us in the fun ways I saw some other servers doing. I was glad to see the resort and especially the beautiful Christmas tree. If we ever do lunch here again we will pay OOP.


This is my husband acting goofy. This is not a genuine smile.:laughing:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/226.jpg

We've seen this totem pole in so many TRs so it was fun to actually pose by it.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/228-1.jpg

By this time it was about 3:30 and time for us to head to the boat dock for MVMCP!:santa:

When we entered the park we saw this sign.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/230-1.jpg

SOLD OUT!:scared1: I was a little nervous about how the crowds would be.

As we made our way into Liberty Square I could hear the Princess Tiana showboat Jubilee playing!! What a fun time for us to arrive. The ferry was coming back after completing it's round. We found a nice spot on the ledge and the girls (and I):blush: eagerly waved at Princess Tiana
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/232-1.jpg

[pmama]

We then realized we were right near where they would be coming off the boat and moved to be standing right up front where the danced their way off the boat, singing. It was too fun and the perfect start to our MK day!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/235-1.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/234-1.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/233-1.jpg


After getting our first glimpse at Princess Tiana we headed to Fronteirland in hopes of getting FPs for Splash Mtn. As we were parking the stroller I realized I was missing the video camera.:scared1: In my excitement to get closer to the Princess I had left it on the ledge. So, we hurried our way back through the crowd and to the ledge where I had left it to find that it was no longer there.:eek: DH kept his calm and found the closest CM who confirmed indeed it had been turned in and she grabbed it from back where the Liberty boat docks.:cool1: Hurray, it is still a Disney Day!
We were surprised to see the wait for Splash Mtn was only 15 minutes so we hopped in line.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/237-1.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/238-1.jpg


We got soaked. Way more than we had ever before. Either we've been lucky in the past or we were really unlucky this time. As the girls said, they were soaked down to their panties.:rotfl2: Good thing it was a hot December day!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/241-1.jpg

Next we made our way to one of Hope's favorites; BTMR.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/242-1.jpg

We were suprised at how small the lines were. We imagined that it must have been a pretty light day at the MK and wondered if it would get more crowded as the party folks arrived.

By now it was starting to get dark. DH and the girls got some roasted almonds and I got a Dole Whip as we made our way to the front of the castle for the castle lighting!

Up Next:hourglass The official start of MVMCP:santa:

[ladybugmom]

You were smart to eat at Whispering Canyon since WL is decorated so beautifully for Christmas!! :thumbsup2 I'll have to remember that for next year!! :goodvibes How cool that you got to see Tiana!! I'm really hoping that they extend this show so we can see it in May! My girls would LOVE it!! Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!! Oh--and the Mickey Santa hats are adorable as are the girls in their red dresses and scarves!! I bought my girls those hats when they went on clearance and when they were doing the free personalization online (had the girls names put in them all for $4.99). Unfortunately, I wished I had gotten the adult size for Ally as her hat doesn't stay on real well. Claire's fits great!!

[ladybugmom]

Happy New Year, Brooke!! :goodvibes

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

WL looked heavenly!

The santa ear hats and dresses are too cute.

I'm very interested to hear how the party was. Our party wasn't even sold out and it was way too crowded for me.

[LoveMyTwoPrincesses]

I decided it was time to come out of lurkdom and say hi. I am enjoying your report because it is easy to see how much you love your family.

How fun that you came upon Princess Tiana! I felt your panic when you left your camera bag. I left my bag on Dumbo and I was just sick about it. Thankfully someone had turned it in as well.

I can't wait to hear more!

[cdotla]

Great update!

Sorry your experience at WC wasn't the best...that's 2 not so great reviews for it I've heard in the last 2 days. Both were lunches so I think if we go I will be sure to go for supper instead.;)

Thank goodness someone turned in your video camera!!! I know from experience how devestating it can be to lose a camera on a trip.:sad2:

Happy 2010, and looking forward to more!:goodvibes

[DaisyLynn]

Great TR! The other night I stayed up until 2 AM reading your last TR and completely enjoyed it. It was so worth the cost of the XL coffee I had to buy the next morning on the way to work. :thumbsup2

You have a beautiful family...Happy New Year! Can't wait for the next installment....

[*Seanaci*]

Wow. We have GOT to spend more than 7 days in WDW next time we go at Christmas time. I want to spend at least one day resort hopping to see the decorations! :D

[2girls+twins]

new here - i am enjoying reading your trip report

[MaryAz]

Great update. Looks like a fun day. Love the hats and dresses!

[DaisyLynn]

new here - i am enjoying reading your trip report

:welcome: to the DIS!!!

[MAJ RN]

Great update. The girls are just adorable in their matching dresses and mickey santa hats! Glad you were able to get your camera back, I would have been a wreck! Can't wait to read about your time at MVMCP.

Melissa

[Momof2princess]

The balloon animals were soo cute!
I am loving your TR and can't wait to read more! You have an adorable family.

Brandy

[princess&her4princes]

Great updates!! :santa: Love all the girls outfits and hats! SO CUTE!!!!:cutie: So glad I got a chance to catch up before you got too much further along. Don't you just LOVE LOVE LOVE Disney at Christmastime? It's soooo beautiful and magical!!! Can't wait to hear more!!! Happy New Year!!:goodvibes

[OneTreeHillAddict]

The girls look so cute dressed up for the party with those red and white outfits/scarves! We have those same hats but I forgot to bring them this year. :guilty:

Yep, I was surprised to find that this was the first visit where some of the new excitement was gone ever so slightly. I think we are planning to wait until after 2012 to return to WDW when the new Fantasyland is complete. We are however hoping to do another Disney Cruise before then. I do miss your TRs though. We have a free dining booked for August but I may move it back to the Fall. It will be our last WDW trip for a while. If a BB is offered then I will book it more than likely for 2011 but I wont renew my AP's until that trip.

Within a years time we spent more than 7 weeks at WDW! It kind of ruined it for me and I can tell the kids love it but they don't appreciate it as much as they used to. Plus you see things changing before your eyes. In the past two years Disney had gotten dirtier, meaner, and neglectful and it's losing the special feeling I would get....I don't know how to describe it but they are not like they used to be.

I do want to try a cruise but I've been reading some bad stuff on those lately too. I am hoping to hear good things from you! :thumbsup2

Oh darn...I was hoping to see your TR for this visit. I didn't know you read mine. :goodvibes If I can free up some time I will add to the dining report. I know if I start a full blown trip report I'd never take care of it. I might do a PTR at some pint for August and add some of the past trips to that. I don't know...

I know what you mean about TR burn out though...I have only done reports for 2 of my last 6 trips. They definitely are time-consuming. It's been quite awhile since my last one though so I think I might do one for our next trip in April.;) They really are time consuming. This is the other thing too...this past trip I had several people come out of nowhere and speak to me. They were all very nice people, I will say that. At the same time though it made me wonder...how many people recognize us and don't say anything!? (And how many of those people might be a little disturbed. :eek:) I watch way too much CNN, I know, but you have to think about it at some point. There are bad people mixed with the good ones you meet and talk to. I don't regret anything I've done on here, I've made some wonderful friends that I will have for the rest of my life but the recognition thing freaks me out just a little. :laughing: Not myself...I'm a total extrovert but the kids are a whole other story. If I do anything I wont include them.

I hope you reconsider on your Grand Gathering trip...that would be a different perspective and I would love to hear your take on it! The Grand Gatherings are A MUST DO! We had a blast at every one of them! Hoop De Doo was a wonderful surprise too. I thought for sure I'd hate that one but we loved it!

In the meantime, I am so glad I have another one of Brooke's great reports to read! Can't wait for more!:goodvibes Me too! :yay:

[Dahly]

Loving your TR so far. Thanks for all of the pics! Your girls are adorable.

Dahly

[pmama]

You were smart to eat at Whispering Canyon since WL is decorated so beautifully for Christmas!! :thumbsup2 I'll have to remember that for next year!! :goodvibes How cool that you got to see Tiana!! I'm really hoping that they extend this show so we can see it in May! My girls would LOVE it!! Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!! Oh--and the Mickey Santa hats are adorable as are the girls in their red dresses and scarves!! I bought my girls those hats when they went on clearance and when they were doing the free personalization online (had the girls names put in them all for $4.99). Unfortunately, I wished I had gotten the adult size for Ally as her hat doesn't stay on real well. Claire's fits great!!

Wow, you got a better deal on the hats than me. We paid I think $8.00 each without the personalization. They did not fit any of us quite right. You are right the kids sizes are small. Even the adult sizes were small for adults. Two actually fell apart before we came home.

WL looked heavenly!

The santa ear hats and dresses are too cute.

I'm very interested to hear how the party was. Our party wasn't even sold out and it was way too crowded for me.

I didn't have an issue with crowds whatsoever. :confused3 We did the second parade which helped.:thumbsup2

I decided it was time to come out of lurkdom and say hi. I am enjoying your report because it is easy to see how much you love your family.

How fun that you came upon Princess Tiana! I felt your panic when you left your camera bag. I left my bag on Dumbo and I was just sick about it. Thankfully someone had turned it in as well.

I can't wait to hear more!

So glad you've come out of lurkdom.:cool1: You are too sweet. Looks like you must have two princesses too!

Great update!

Sorry your experience at WC wasn't the best...that's 2 not so great reviews for it I've heard in the last 2 days. Both were lunches so I think if we go I will be sure to go for supper instead.;)

Thank goodness someone turned in your video camera!!! I know from experience how devestating it can be to lose a camera on a trip.:sad2:

Happy 2010, and looking forward to more!:goodvibes

Yes, I was so grateful someone turnred in the video camera. That really would have put a damper on our first day in MK!

[pmama]

Great TR! The other night I stayed up until 2 AM reading your last TR and completely enjoyed it. It was so worth the cost of the XL coffee I had to buy the next morning on the way to work. :thumbsup2

You have a beautiful family...Happy New Year! Can't wait for the next installment....

:rotfl2: So honored you found the TR worth reading. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading along, and it looks like we share the same name.;)

Wow. We have GOT to spend more than 7 days in WDW next time we go at Christmas time. I want to spend at least one day resort hopping to see the decorations! :D

Yes we definitely checked out more resorts this time around just to see the Christmas decorations. You easily could spend a whole day resort hopping.

new here - i am enjoying reading your trip report

:wave2:So glad you are enjoying the TR. Thanks for reading along and posting.

Great update. Looks like a fun day. Love the hats and dresses!

Definitely a fun day!

Great update. The girls are just adorable in their matching dresses and mickey santa hats! Glad you were able to get your camera back, I would have been a wreck! Can't wait to read about your time at MVMCP.

Melissa

Thanks a bunch.:goodvibes

The balloon animals were soo cute!
I am loving your TR and can't wait to read more! You have an adorable family.

Brandy

Thanks for reading along and posting.:goodvibes

Great updates!! :santa: Love all the girls outfits and hats! SO CUTE!!!!:cutie: So glad I got a chance to catch up before you got too much further along. Don't you just LOVE LOVE LOVE Disney at Christmastime? It's soooo beautiful and magical!!! Can't wait to hear more!!! Happy New Year!!:goodvibes

So glad to have you along. Happy New Year to you too!

The girls look so cute dressed up for the party with those red and white outfits/scarves! We have those same hats but I forgot to bring them this year. :guilty:

We have a free dining booked for August but I may move it back to the Fall. It will be our last WDW trip for a while. If a BB is offered then I will book it more than likely for 2011 but I wont renew my AP's until that trip.

Within a years time we spent more than 7 weeks at WDW! It kind of ruined it for me and I can tell the kids love it but they don't appreciate it as much as they used to. Plus you see things changing before your eyes. In the past two years Disney had gotten dirtier, meaner, and neglectful and it's losing the special feeling I would get....I don't know how to describe it but they are not like they used to be.

I do want to try a cruise but I've been reading some bad stuff on those lately too. I am hoping to hear good things from you! :thumbsup2

Me too! :yay:

It is great that you have the flexibility in traveling whenever with homeschooling! Hope I don't turn you off to cruising. We did not end up with the best of circumstances but still loved the experience.

Loving your TR so far. Thanks for all of the pics! Your girls are adorable.

Dahly

Thanks! Glad you like lots of pics.:goodvibes

[MiNniEDrEameR]

Great TR so far can't wait to hear more!!:cool1:

[bc_butterfly]

Loving your trip report so much had to go back and read your PTR and other TR's popcorn::

Hope you had a fantastic New Year.

[morgtroy]

Yes, they did honor our reservation for Ohana, that's the latest I've ever been for a reservation. We thought we could call bell services to pick up our luggage and then leave. Tammy had done that before, but when we called, they told us someone had to be present when they picked it up. It didn't take them that long to get someone there, but we did wait on them, then had horrible luck with the buses. It's a helpless feeling like you described being in Norway trying to get to Teppan Edo. We felt that way with the 2 stops of the monorail trying to get to Ohana.

Great really long first day. I know you all had to be really tired that night. Love the balloons, especially the Mickey balloon. The boys got sword balloons and the girls got a puppy and a flower at check in at OKW. They always have them. But I've never seen the Mickey one, very cute.

The kids loved swimming too. They swam on Sunday, my mom called said it was like 30 degrees and raining at home. I told her 85 there and we were at the pool.:rotfl2:

Love the girls dresses for the party. We did the Mickey santa hats too. Hope the party went good for you, can't wait to hear about it.
We got the wrong spot to watch the fireworks at the party. We were on the bridge between the castle and where Belle's story time is. We couldn't see the fireworks very well for the trees. It was frustrating. But my kids would got to it for the dance party alone. They just love it.:love:

[WDWPrincess486]

I'm really enjoying your TR so far and can't wait to hear about MVMCP. We went on 12/11 and 12/18 and both nights were sold out. I love how even when it's busy it still isn't that bad at all because the lines are still relatively short for just about everything. Your girls are adorable in their Christmas dresses!! Can't wait to hear more :goodvibes

[cinderella-princess]

I'm loving your TR so far! Your family is so great and you can tell how much fun you have together. I've followed along with your previous TR's and this trips PTR and can't wait to hear more. Living in CA I have no idea when we'll get to WDW so your experiences are a great way to feel some of the Disney magic from WDW. I can't believe it's been 10 years since I was there last - 2000 doesn't seem like that long ago!

[pmama]

Yes, they did honor our reservation for Ohana, that's the latest I've ever been for a reservation. We thought we could call bell services to pick up our luggage and then leave. Tammy had done that before, but when we called, they told us someone had to be present when they picked it up. It didn't take them that long to get someone there, but we did wait on them, then had horrible luck with the buses. It's a helpless feeling like you described being in Norway trying to get to Teppan Edo. We felt that way with the 2 stops of the monorail trying to get to Ohana.

Great really long first day. I know you all had to be really tired that night. Love the balloons, especially the Mickey balloon. The boys got sword balloons and the girls got a puppy and a flower at check in at OKW. They always have them. But I've never seen the Mickey one, very cute.

The kids loved swimming too. They swam on Sunday, my mom called said it was like 30 degrees and raining at home. I told her 85 there and we were at the pool.:rotfl2:

Love the girls dresses for the party. We did the Mickey santa hats too. Hope the party went good for you, can't wait to hear about it.
We got the wrong spot to watch the fireworks at the party. We were on the bridge between the castle and where Belle's story time is. We couldn't see the fireworks very well for the trees. It was frustrating. But my kids would got to it for the dance party alone. They just love it.:love:

Glad you got to eat at Ohana! That Sunday was a beautiful day! You'll have to see when I post pictures of fireworks at MVMCP. It wasn't a great view but we got a better view by crouching down.:rotfl2:

I'm really enjoying your TR so far and can't wait to hear about MVMCP. We went on 12/11 and 12/18 and both nights were sold out. I love how even when it's busy it still isn't that bad at all because the lines are still relatively short for just about everything. Your girls are adorable in their Christmas dresses!! Can't wait to hear more :goodvibes


How fun you got to go twice! It was a great time.:santa:

I'm loving your TR so far! Your family is so great and you can tell how much fun you have together. I've followed along with your previous TR's and this trips PTR and can't wait to hear more. Living in CA I have no idea when we'll get to WDW so your experiences are a great way to feel some of the Disney magic from WDW. I can't believe it's been 10 years since I was there last - 2000 doesn't seem like that long ago!

Thanks so much for following along and for posting so I know you're here!:goodvibes

[pmama]

We left off at the Magic Kingdom just as the castle was about to be lit. We had arrived at 4 p.m. for MVMCP and had already seen Princess Tiana and her showboat jubilee, rode Splash Mountain and BTMR. The girls were so excited to see the castle sparkle ever since they watched a Disney promo that said the castle sparkles with “pixie dust” during the holidays. It really is beautiful to witness them turning on.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/297.jpg

The castle lighting was done a little before 6:30 so we headed to Cosmic Rays to grab some dinner. Our plan was to eat dinner and be there when the dance party started at 7 p.m. I was surprised at how busy Cosmic Rays was when we entered and completely full of people without wristband that would not be staying for the party. It usually doesn’t bother me that they don’t dismiss the rest of the crowd until 7 but I was a little annoyed when I couldn’t at first find a seat in the front area where the dance party would be. I even asked a Cast Member if everyone in here was going to get to participate in the dance party even though they had not purchased tickets. I really think they should stop letting non party public in at about 6:30 so they can start the dance party with just the paying crowd. Anyway, we did finally find a seat in the way back of the bottom front section. And, we were just about done when the party started! The girls loved the dance party. First it was Goofy and Pluto. Loved the “who let the dogs out” song. After a while Chip and Dale came in and we had all 4. It was great fun but also very crowded (I suspect with non party paying children).
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_MVMCP.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=MVMCP.flv)

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/255.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/253.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/264.jpg

We then went to see the new Christmas show in Tomorrowland. I read that a lot of people were disappointed with the old show being gone but we really enjoyed this one. I thought I was going to witness a brawl while we were waiting. Two young couples were standing in front of us with their baby strollers. Everyone else was sitting down. We figured they would sit down as soon as the show started but as time came near they were not sitting down. So the people behind us started yelling, “down in front”. They young parents would not sit down even when they were confronted face to face. Finally however the mob behind us won and the young parents left rather than sit on the ground. I do agree an ampitheatre would have been much more comfortable. It snowed at the end of the show which was perfect for us as it was the first time we’d seen Disney snow.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/270.jpg

We then went to go ride Space Mountain. It was a milestone for Faith as she was just barely tall enough to ride it this time! She rode the Disneyland version over the summer because the height restriction there is shorter. She freaked out a little when she sat down and realized we were not sitting side by side but was just fine once we started zooming around.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/273.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/274.jpg

We didn’t really get to play with the games as we were walking through the cue as there was NO LINE. Remember, it’s a sold out night. I’ve often read complaints about crowds on sold out nights but we did not experience that at all. But, it may help that we go to the second parade showing.
We then decided that this might be a good time to do the obligatory Speedway as the girls love it. This by far was our longest wait. We forgot to take the right cue and took the left cue once again that was much longer and moved slower.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/275.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/277.jpg

The girls convinced DH to do the Tea Cups (I can’t handle circles) and on the way we ran into Alice with no line!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/279.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/280.jpg

[pmama]

By this time it was about 15 minutes until fireworks so we went to find a spot for the fireworks. We went to our favorite viewing spot and found that all the perfect spots were taken. Should have gotten there early. I decided that MVMCP must be full of more veteran Disney people who know where the good spots are. We like to watch on the small walkway between Main Street and Tomorrowland as you can stand without anyone in front of you. We ended up having to stand near a tree but found that if we sat sat/crouched down we had a pretty good view under the tree.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/288.jpg

It was a great fireworks show. I just love it when they all go off around you. We still think MNSSHP wins by just a hair.
We then made our way back to the castle for the show. We arrived in plenty of time but on purpose chose to stand further back. I wanted to see if a trick I had read about on the DIS would really work.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/290.jpg

Although by the end of the show my feet were killing me from holding DD5 up the whole time. DH was sore from holding DD9 up the whole time. So, yes our trick did work but next time I think we’ll go closer up so we don’t have to hold them.
And what is the trick? You ask. It is to stand in your spot for the parade while watching the Castle show so that you can simply turn around and have prime viewing spots for the parade already secured. Yes, it worked perfectly. If you don’t have to hold up children I highly recommend it!
The party parades are just fabulous and this did not disappoint. The skaters and the wooden soldiers were particularly neat. It’s hard to explain how cool the wooden soldiers were without being there but they all stepped with their big wooden shoes in perfect unison which made for an awesome sight and sound.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/307.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/318.jpg

Next up we were off to the step sister’s dance party. Too fun!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/324.jpg

Faith was being shy and would not go out to the dance floor so Anastasia came and grabbed her and danced all around with Faith until Faith was laughing and comfortable out on the dance floor. Anastasia then became one of Faith’s favorites. She also took Hope’s scarf and wrapped it around Hope’s head and tied a bow. The girls thought it was hysterical.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/332.jpg

Lady Trumane was in full character and at one point when the girls came back and stood near me she told them that they must not want to wed a prince if they were not out dancing.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/333.jpg

We love the playful banter of the step sisters and their mother.

By now it was nearing midnight and we knew there was for sure one thing we had to do before the night was over……………… That’s right, DUMBO!
I took this picture of the castle while flying high on Dumbo!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/337-1.jpg

After exiting Dumbo we walked right on the Carousel.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/339-1.jpg

Next we ran to Peter Pan before the clock stroke midnight for our last ride of the night.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/342-1-1.jpg

That last half hour of parties is always the best when the crowd is all but gone and everything is a complete run on. It’s a race to see how much you can get in before you have to leave.
Towards the very end of the night the clouds came down and it really made for the castle lights to be just gorgeous. I took this picture as we made our way out at midnight.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/343.jpg

The snow on Main Street was just as magical as they say, simply stunning with the Christmas music playing in the background. I kept telling DH to walk slower because I did not want to leave. It really did feel like being in the middle of a perfect dream that you do not want to end.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/346.jpg:cloud9:

[tinkmom2]

Hi,
You stopped by my TR so here I am to visit yours! I love your trip report so far! The girls' dresses in the beginning were sooo cute! Did you make them?
I want to go back today WAAHHH! LOL! I wish too that all the decorations were up when we were there in November. There still was too much to see and do! I think we may go back to WDW in 2011 when we go on our next cruise. It's funny that we took some of the same pics! Great minds think alike! :thumbsup2 I am glad to hear there are no broken bones..so far!
Chris

[MAJ RN]

Another great update!! I LOVE the way the castle looks all lit up, I would love to see it in person someday!! Great pictures of the girls with the stepsisters, what a fun time!! Can't wait to read more, it is making me even more excited for my trip


Melissa

[*Seanaci*]

Looked like someone else at the dance party got their daughter the same dress and scarf you got your girls. Hehe

And your DH looks so thrilled on SM. lol :D Glad Faith got to ride it. How is it now? When we were there in 2008 it was just before the refurb.

The more pics I see of people at MVMCP, the more convinced I'm becoming of spending the extra money for tix to it when we go in a couple years. :D

Can't wait for your next installment! :D

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

I'm glad you had a great time at the party. Maybe it seemed so crowded to us b/c we only did the party stuff on/around Main St. and it seemed that is where EVERYONE was. We didn't ride anything. Maybe we will try again on another trip someday. Your girls are so cute in their Christmas outfits!

[Princess_K]

I'm glad you started another TR!

It looks like you all had a great time at MVMCP. We went to it last December, and it was one of the highlights of our trip!

Looking forward to the next installment :)

[Ciciwoowoo]

I am enjoying your trip report! :goodvibes

[MaryAz]

Great update, looks so fun!

[ladybugmom]

This is the best update so far!! How magical! :wizard: I'm just soaking all of this in for our trip this next December!! I'm glad Faith got to ride Space Mountain--what is the height requirement? It was closed in May so I never looked into it. Ally is around 49 inches tall right now--I would think that would be tall enough, right? And it sounds like we enjoy the same fireworks spot on the walkway to Tomorrowland!! :thumbsup2 Thank you for the tip on viewing the castle show and having the same spot for the parade--very smart!! ;) Where was the dance party with the stepsisters held? How fun that Anastasia danced with Faith!! What a hoot!! So the park is open until midnight on MVMCP nights? I'm a newbie when it comes to WDW this time of year!! Oh--and I noticed the new pics in your siggy--they must be from the cruise!! Beautiful!! :lovestruc

[WDWPrincess486]

I love the pictures from MVMCP!! It looks like you all had such a wonderful time :) It's great how so many people leave after the fireworks and after the second parade...the lines are virtually nonexistent!! :cool1: I love MK (and all of WDW) around Christmas...it's just so magical...I like how you said it was like being in the middle of a perfect dream that you do not want to end, as I heartily agree :goodvibes And I love Cinderella Castle with the dream lights...I always ask Frankie to take a zillion pictures of it when we go to MVMCP...at least several shots of every color scheme, of course! :lmao: Great update and can't wait to read more :goodvibes

[cdotla]

Great update from MVMCP!

And what a teaser with those pics in your siggy from the cruise! They are wonderful!!! :goodvibes

[pmama]

Hi,
You stopped by my TR so here I am to visit yours! I love your trip report so far! The girls' dresses in the beginning were sooo cute! Did you make them?
I want to go back today WAAHHH! LOL! I wish too that all the decorations were up when we were there in November. There still was too much to see and do! I think we may go back to WDW in 2011 when we go on our next cruise. It's funny that we took some of the same pics! Great minds think alike! :thumbsup2 I am glad to hear there are no broken bones..so far!
Chris

Wow, I stopped by your TR and saw that great photo op you got with all the characters on the cruise. I'm jealous.:snooty: It's hard to be home isn't it?

Another great update!! I LOVE the way the castle looks all lit up, I would love to see it in person someday!! Great pictures of the girls with the stepsisters, what a fun time!! Can't wait to read more, it is making me even more excited for my trip


Melissa

Yes, the castle is just beautiful all lit up.

Looked like someone else at the dance party got their daughter the same dress and scarf you got your girls. Hehe

And your DH looks so thrilled on SM. lol :D Glad Faith got to ride it. How is it now? When we were there in 2008 it was just before the refurb.

The more pics I see of people at MVMCP, the more convinced I'm becoming of spending the extra money for tix to it when we go in a couple years. :D

Can't wait for your next installment! :D

We were not going to pay the extra $ for MVMCP but towards the end decided to go ahead. I am soooo glad we did. It was one of our favorite nights for sure.:thumbsup2

I'm glad you had a great time at the party. Maybe it seemed so crowded to us b/c we only did the party stuff on/around Main St. and it seemed that is where EVERYONE was. We didn't ride anything. Maybe we will try again on another trip someday. Your girls are so cute in their Christmas outfits!

Yep, I've heard that the party crowd moves around in herds and as long as you try to go in other directions from the herds you should be fine. There must be some truth to that.:confused3

I'm glad you started another TR!

It looks like you all had a great time at MVMCP. We went to it last December, and it was one of the highlights of our trip!

Looking forward to the next installment :)

Thanks, definite highlight!

I am enjoying your trip report! :goodvibes

Thanks for reading.:cool1:

Great update, looks so fun!

Great fun!:woohoo:

This is the best update so far!! How magical! :wizard: I'm just soaking all of this in for our trip this next December!! I'm glad Faith got to ride Space Mountain--what is the height requirement? It was closed in May so I never looked into it. Ally is around 49 inches tall right now--I would think that would be tall enough, right? And it sounds like we enjoy the same fireworks spot on the walkway to Tomorrowland!! :thumbsup2 Thank you for the tip on viewing the castle show and having the same spot for the parade--very smart!! ;) Where was the dance party with the stepsisters held? How fun that Anastasia danced with Faith!! What a hoot!! So the park is open until midnight on MVMCP nights? I'm a newbie when it comes to WDW this time of year!! Oh--and I noticed the new pics in your siggy--they must be from the cruise!! Beautiful!! :lovestruc

I think the height restriction for Space Mountain is 48 inches. It's fun to think the first time we took Faith to WDW she just barely made it on to Kali River Rapids which is 38 inches. So, 10 inches in 2 years.:goodvibes

I love the pictures from MVMCP!! It looks like you all had such a wonderful time :) It's great how so many people leave after the fireworks and after the second parade...the lines are virtually nonexistent!! :cool1: I love MK (and all of WDW) around Christmas...it's just so magical...I like how you said it was like being in the middle of a perfect dream that you do not want to end, as I heartily agree :goodvibes And I love Cinderella Castle with the dream lights...I always ask Frankie to take a zillion pictures of it when we go to MVMCP...at least several shots of every color scheme, of course! :lmao: Great update and can't wait to read more :goodvibes

Yep, the nonexistent lines are the best! The castle was gorgeous. I told DH we need a much better camera next time.

Great update from MVMCP!

And what a teaser with those pics in your siggy from the cruise! They are wonderful!!! :goodvibes

Too funny, I didn't think of them as a teaser but works for me. :)

[lilpapsgirl]

Just stopping by your TR. I am loving it so far! It looks like you guys had an awesome time. I am so jealous that you got to got to WDW and take a cruise! How awesome. Can't wait to hear morepopcorn:: and your girls are addorable!

[hlrababy]

Hey!!!! I finally made it over...better late than never! :lmao:


Awesome updates so far and wonderful pictures!!!!

I love the pics of your sweet girls in your signature with Princess Tiana and Belle!!! So cute!!

[praisehisname]

I'm joining in! DH and I were at the same MVMCP as you! I searched the background of all your pics, but we're not in any of them...:rotfl:

[princess&her4princes]

Great update!! So happy that you had a great time at MVMCP! :santa: There is nothing like it!! We had the same feeling as you did, last year, when we went walking down Main Street with the snow falling! I remember thinking how is it possible that MK could be even more magical than it normally is? And it was!!!!:cloud9:

[Momof2princess]

Great Update:thumbsup2

Looks like you had a blast at MVMCP! We would love to go that time of year, it looks so magical!!!

[lmillercrew]

I finally made it too! Wow you guys had a very busy first day! It made me tired just reading about it. ;)
How hot was it when you were there? Just be glad you weren't there over Christmas or after. I think it's pretty cold there now.

[autumnpalm]

I just spent the last while catching up on your TR!:thumbsup2 I've been feeling sick today so this little bit of Disney magic is just what I needed.:wizard:

Love your MVMCP pics! We were there last year and had an absolute blast. Walking down Main Street with the snow at the end of the night is so magical.

Your family is beautiful and I'm looking forward to reading about the rest of your trip!:goodvibes

[smithpack]

I have lurked on your first two TR's, and I LOVED them! I was so excited to find this one. My 10 year anniversary is coming up in May, and we have been saying the same thing. We want to do a Disney Cruise because we can have alone time, and time with our kids. It may be next year before we can do our cruise though:sad1:

I am loving all the Christmas pictures. I watched the Disney Christmas parades on tv, and it really made me want to go during Christmas. I would love to see the Osbourne lights in real life. I hope you got to see them while you were there. Loving the TR and looking forward to more!:dance3:

[DisneyCP08]

Great update and loved all the MVMCP pics. We were there last year and loved it. Your pics made me miss it even more. Cant wait for more:)

[MouseTriper]

Just joining in on your TR....loving it so far. Your girls are adorable. Looking forward to reading more!

[DisneyGirl2023]

subbing love your trip reports popcorn:::wave2::disrocks::earsboy::fish:

[JPFamilyMom]

Loved your update(s), especially the MVMCP, I hope to be able to take my kids to a party one year, waiting until they are just a bit older though.

Your pictures were great, it sounds like you guys had a very magical night. Can't wait to read more.

[pmama]

Just stopping by your TR. I am loving it so far! It looks like you guys had an awesome time. I am so jealous that you got to got to WDW and take a cruise! How awesome. Can't wait to hear morepopcorn:: and your girls are addorable!

Thank you. Yes, we got a lot in this trip that's for sure.:goodvibes

Hey!!!! I finally made it over...better late than never!

Awesome updates so far and wonderful pictures!!!!

I love the pics of your sweet girls in your signature with Princess Tiana and Belle!!! So cute!!

Thanks, we got some great pics with the princesses this trip!

I'm joining in! DH and I were at the same MVMCP as you! I searched the background of all your pics, but we're not in any of them...:rotfl:

Ha, it was a great night for MVMCP wasn't it. Nice warm evening with no rain!

Great update!! So happy that you had a great time at MVMCP! :santa: There is nothing like it!! We had the same feeling as you did, last year, when we went walking down Main Street with the snow falling! I remember thinking how is it possible that MK could be even more magical than it normally is? And it was!!!!

Yep, super magical.:wizard:

Great Update

Looks like you had a blast at MVMCP! We would love to go that time of year, it looks so magical!!!

Great time of year to visit.:santa:

I finally made it too! Wow you guys had a very busy first day! It made me tired just reading about it. ;)
How hot was it when you were there? Just be glad you weren't there over Christmas or after. I think it's pretty cold there now.

Glad you're here.;) Well we got to see a broad spectrum of Florida temperatures as you'll se later in the TR. But when we arrived it was in the mid 80s. It was fantastic.:yay:

I just spent the last while catching up on your TR!:thumbsup2 I've been feeling sick today so this little bit of Disney magic is just what I needed.:wizard:

Love your MVMCP pics! We were there last year and had an absolute blast. Walking down Main Street with the snow at the end of the night is so magical.

Your family is beautiful and I'm looking forward to reading about the rest of your trip!:goodvibes

Thanks, you're sweet.:goodvibes

I have lurked on your first two TR's, and I LOVED them! I was so excited to find this one. My 10 year anniversary is coming up in May, and we have been saying the same thing. We want to do a Disney Cruise because we can have alone time, and time with our kids. It may be next year before we can do our cruise though:sad1:

I am loving all the Christmas pictures. I watched the Disney Christmas parades on tv, and it really made me want to go during Christmas. I would love to see the Osbourne lights in real life. I hope you got to see them while you were there. Loving the TR and looking forward to more!:dance3:

So glad you've come out of lurkdom.:welcome: Yes we definitely saw Osbourne lights and it was even more amazing than it looks on TV.:goodvibes

Great update and loved all the MVMCP pics. We were there last year and loved it. Your pics made me miss it even more. Cant wait for more:)

Thanks, I'm so glad we went.

Just joining in on your TR....loving it so far. Your girls are adorable. Looking forward to reading more!

:welcome:

subbing love your trip reports popcorn:::wave2::disrocks::earsboy::fish:

:welcome:

Loved your update(s), especially the MVMCP, I hope to be able to take my kids to a party one year, waiting until they are just a bit older though.

Your pictures were great, it sounds like you guys had a very magical night. Can't wait to read more.

Thanks, we've loved both the MNSSHP and the MVMCP. They turn out to be one of the major highlights of our trips.

[ampc3]

Just stumbled upon your TR :) your girls are adorable! I've always wanted to do a land and sea.... looking forward to hearing about the cruise part :) thinking we will do our first DCL next year maybe fingers crossed.....

Did you like the order you did it in wdw first then cruise? or would you chane it next time just curious??

[tinkmom2]

Hiya,
Back Again! I read your other trip report with the two broken arms and was wowed! I don't know how you could be in such great spirits like you were? How did you go swimming? I saw a few pics when you were in the water. Can't wait to see more of this trip report!
I want to add more video to mine but I have to buy a Quicktime program so I can split some of my lengthy video up. I have the MVMCP but I can't download it to photobucket because it's too long:rolleyes:
Have a great day!
Chris

[*Seanaci*]

Hiya,
Back Again! I read your other trip report with the two broken arms and was wowed! I don't know how you could be in such great spirits like you were? How did you go swimming? I saw a few pics when you were in the water. Can't wait to see more of this trip report!
I want to add more video to mine but I have to buy a Quicktime program so I can split some of my lengthy video up. I have the MVMCP but I can't download it to photobucket because it's too long:rolleyes:
Have a great day!
Chris

They actually have casts you can swim in or get wet now. ^_^

[momto2nenas]

Great report so far, loving the pics. Subbing in now. :)

[*Seanaci*]

Hey there! Hope all is well with you and yours!

[pmama]

Just stumbled upon your TR :) your girls are adorable! I've always wanted to do a land and sea.... looking forward to hearing about the cruise part :) thinking we will do our first DCL next year maybe fingers crossed.....

Did you like the order you did it in wdw first then cruise? or would you chane it next time just curious??


Thanks, yes if you are going to do both I'd definitely recommend WDW first.

Hiya,
Back Again! I read your other trip report with the two broken arms and was wowed! I don't know how you could be in such great spirits like you were? How did you go swimming? I saw a few pics when you were in the water. Can't wait to see more of this trip report!
I want to add more video to mine but I have to buy a Quicktime program so I can split some of my lengthy video up. I have the MVMCP but I can't download it to photobucket because it's too long:rolleyes:
Have a great day!
Chris

They actually have casts you can swim in or get wet now. ^_^

Yep, it was a swim cast and the sling could just come off. Oddly enough I think that was my favorite trip to date.

Great report so far, loving the pics. Subbing in now. :)

Thanks and Welcome.:yay:

Hey there! Hope all is well with you and yours!

I'm still here, working on a quick update now.

[pmama]

Alrighty, I'm here for the moment and going to type a quick update although I should be in bed.:upsidedow We left off after our 2nd full day and an absolutely fabulous time at MVMCP!:santa:

Following in the routine of our trip so far we had another sleep in morning. Of course after not leaving MK until midnight the night before we needed our rest.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/348.jpg

The girls then opened their Christmas present for the day.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/349.jpg

Tinkerbell and Ariel ponchos! I bought these from the Disney Store 9 months before our trip.:rotfl2:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/350.jpg

The ponchos were for the evening but they came in handy immediately as the girls found it to be chilly in the restaurant.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/351.jpg

Our plan for today was to head back to Epcot for our 2nd day in that park. We were going to stay for Illuminations.:woohoo: We arrived at Coral Reef for our 11:30 lunch reservations about 15 minutes early. This is a great time for a res. if you want the front. I asked for a seat next to the aquarium when we arrived and we received prime seats. A number of people were seated before us which made me nervous until I realized they were being seated further back. :yay:We love sitting right next to the aquarium. We had lots of entertainment the whole time as both the tortoise and stingray were right in front of us.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/357.jpg

I'm not a food critic at all. I enjoy restaurants for their atmosphere more than the food. HOWEVER, I am a sucker for pretty food, so I did take some pictures.

I had the tilapia.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/358.jpg

DH loves the steak here.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/359.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/360.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/361.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/363.jpg

The girls absolutely love making their own sundaes here as well!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/366.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/368.jpg

It was another wonderful meal. Coral Reef is the only restaurant we have dined at all three visits to WDW. It is still a family favorite although it now has close competition in Teppan Edo.


After lunch we rode Soarin. Love it! After visiting Disneyland over the summer I now completely realize that that is a California/Disneyland version. It'd be fun if they made a Soarin over Florida!

We then finally made it to the Disney Visa Meet and Greet that is exclusive to Disney Visa holders. We arrived 10 minutes early and were the second family in line. It definitely pays to arrive early. We've tried before but the lines were always too long. We had great interaction and got some great photos that I'll share when I get my photopass CD.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/369.jpg

After that we went by the new attraction in Innoventions "Sum of All Thrills". You design your own roller coaster on a touchscreen computer and then enter a similated robotics machine that moves you around with your design. Faith was too short so we went for snacks while DH and Hope waited. I believe it took about 45 minutes between them standing in line then designing their roller coaster before it was their turn. Hope absolutely loved this. It is one of her highlights of the entire trip. I video taped it. It seemed a little tame from my vantage point but was just perfect for the 9 year old girl she was. It will flip you upside down but she did not reach the height limit for that feature.

I will leave here as a reminder to myself to upload the video from their experience. It looks like I didn't take any pictures.:goodvibes

[ladybugmom]

I should be in bed, too!! It's after midnight here!! YIKES!! Oh well--LOVE the ponchos!! The girls are so cute in them!! I've been buying things already for our December trip, too!! ;) Mmmm--your food at Coral Reef looks YUMMY!! It IS pretty!! And yay for Soarin'--my favorite!! I would LOVE it if they did a Florida version!! Great idea!! :thumbsup2 Can't wait to see the Sum of all Thrills video!! :goodvibes

[smithpack]

Your family is so beautiful, and I love the picture of Faith stretched out sleeping, too cute. Love the poncho's, and it looks like the girls loved them too. I haven't eaten at Coral Reef yet, but it looks like I need to the next time we go. I have always heard great reviews about it.


How long have they had"the sum of all thrills"? Do you remember the height requirement? I hope they have it there for a while. Sounds like your girl's are having fun. I noticed in your first TR you all got up early and did a lot before the afternoon crowds.This one you are taking it easy and going later, then staying after the afternoon crowds leave and staying out late. I was curious as to which was your preference.:goodvibes I hope that just made sense.

[PrincessPaczki]

hi! :goodvibes I am really enjoying your trip report. Thank you for posting such wonderful photos. :thumbsup2 The girls look adorable in their ponchos and your dinner at the CR looks delicious!:thumbsup2 Can't wait to read more.

[Princess_K]

Another good update! Coral Reef is one of our favorite too. That's great you got to sit in the front!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Very cute ponchos! I buy stuff like that and save it too!

Coral Reef looks really good. I think we will try that one next time.

I will have to remember that tip on the Visa meet and greet. We tried it twice and the line was unreal both times so we left. Can't wait to see your PP pics!

[*Seanaci*]

Way to go for buying the ponchos that far before the trip. :D lol They were really cute!

I still have yet to ride Soarin'. :( Christmas '08, I missed out on it...don't know why either. lol Oh well. I digress.

[miprender]

Great update!:thumbsup2 I have yet to make it to the Visa Meet and Greet. We seem never to find it. And when I do remember about it, it is alway after hours.

This next trip I am going to make it a priority to go there.:goodvibes

[Momof2princess]

Another great update:cool1:

I showed my DD (7) earlier the ponchos in your pics and she loved them. She told me I had to find one for her that she "had" to have one, LOL


Sounds like your day in Epcot is starting out great!

Brandin

[praisehisname]

We love Coral Reef! :love:

Can't wait to see the video from Sum of All Thrills!

[cdotla]

Great update!

We haven't yet tried Coral Reef, but are booked there in May. Can't wait to try it!

Also looking forward to the Sum of all Thrills. Looking forward to seeing your video!;)

[Mich123]

Subscribing! Just discovered your trip report...enjoying it so far and looking forward to the cruise report. Wanted to say "hi" and mention that your TR of your trip with two broken arms was a big help to me last February when my daughter broke her arm a few days before our WDW trip. I was directed to your TR by a Moderator after I posted an inquiry about travel with a broken arm. Our trip turned out fine, but I was very worried that DD10 would have a hard time--she didn't have too many problems, just a bit tired sometimes from lugging the cast along--and the CMs were wonderful to her. A belated Thank You for your great trip report! :)

[pmama]

I should be in bed, too!! It's after midnight here!! YIKES!! Oh well--LOVE the ponchos!! The girls are so cute in them!! I've been buying things already for our December trip, too!! ;) Mmmm--your food at Coral Reef looks YUMMY!! It IS pretty!! And yay for Soarin'--my favorite!! I would LOVE it if they did a Florida version!! Great idea!! :thumbsup2 Can't wait to see the Sum of all Thrills video!! :goodvibes


Glad I'm not the only one who stays up too late on the DIS.:goodvibes

Your family is so beautiful, and I love the picture of Faith stretched out sleeping, too cute. Love the poncho's, and it looks like the girls loved them too. I haven't eaten at Coral Reef yet, but it looks like I need to the next time we go. I have always heard great reviews about it.


How long have they had"the sum of all thrills"? Do you remember the height requirement? I hope they have it there for a while. Sounds like your girl's are having fun. I noticed in your first TR you all got up early and did a lot before the afternoon crowds.This one you are taking it easy and going later, then staying after the afternoon crowds leave and staying out late. I was curious as to which was your preference.:goodvibes I hope that just made sense.

I don't remember the height restriction for Sum of all Thrills. I'm thinking maybe 52". Well our late mornings were more due to the fact that we had so much planned in the evenings this trip. I also love rope drop. This trip was more laid back and we didn't feel the need to get it all in like we had in years prior. So, if you do feel like getting it all in I guess rope drop would be best. We are not fans of returning to the resort for naps during the day. We'd rather sleep in or go back early.

hi! :goodvibes I am really enjoying your trip report. Thank you for posting such wonderful photos. :thumbsup2 The girls look adorable in their ponchos and your dinner at the CR looks delicious!:thumbsup2 Can't wait to read more.

Thanks for the kind words.:goodvibes

Another good update! Coral Reef is one of our favorite too. That's great you got to sit in the front!

Being in the front is the only way to go for me.:goodvibes

Very cute ponchos! I buy stuff like that and save it too!

Coral Reef looks really good. I think we will try that one next time.

I will have to remember that tip on the Visa meet and greet. We tried it twice and the line was unreal both times so we left. Can't wait to see your PP pics!

Definitely recommend arriving for Visa greet early.:thumbsup2

Way to go for buying the ponchos that far before the trip. :D lol They were really cute!

I still have yet to ride Soarin'. :( Christmas '08, I missed out on it...don't know why either. lol Oh well. I digress.

No Soarin!:eek: It is a MUST!!!

Great update!:thumbsup2 I have yet to make it to the Visa Meet and Greet. We seem never to find it. And when I do remember about it, it is alway after hours.

This next trip I am going to make it a priority to go there.:goodvibes

Arrive early!:goodvibes

Another great update:cool1:

I showed my DD (7) earlier the ponchos in your pics and she loved them. She told me I had to find one for her that she "had" to have one, LOL


Sounds like your day in Epcot is starting out great!

Brandin

I got the ponchos on a huge sale come Spring of last year.:goodvibes

We love Coral Reef! :love:

Can't wait to see the video from Sum of All Thrills!

Coral Reef is fab.:yay:

Great update!

We haven't yet tried Coral Reef, but are booked there in May. Can't wait to try it!

Also looking forward to the Sum of all Thrills. Looking forward to seeing your video!;)

Video is uploaded and coming soon.:cool1:

Subscribing! Just discovered your trip report...enjoying it so far and looking forward to the cruise report. Wanted to say "hi" and mention that your TR of your trip with two broken arms was a big help to me last February when my daughter broke her arm a few days before our WDW trip. I was directed to your TR by a Moderator after I posted an inquiry about travel with a broken arm. Our trip turned out fine, but I was very worried that DD10 would have a hard time--she didn't have too many problems, just a bit tired sometimes from lugging the cast along--and the CMs were wonderful to her. A belated Thank You for your great trip report! :)

Wow, too cool that my last TR was able to help with your situation. I'd never thought of it that way but that is great! Sorry your DD broke her arm before the trip. Truly is a huge bummer but Disney seems to make everything better. Thanks for posting and reading along.:goodvibes

[pmama]

As promised here is the video of DD9 and DH riding their simulated roller coaster that they designed. Their ride was fairly mild although they still loved it. Others were flipping upside down.:eek: DH said this really helped as he could enjoy himself knowing that DD was also enjoying herself.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_SumofAllThrillsEpcot.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=SumofAllThrillsEpcot.flv)




I went back and added a couple video where they belong earlier in the trip if anyone is interested. MVMCP dance party: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34875954&postcount=79

and (a favorite of mine) video of us walking through completely empty streets of Hollywood Studios at midnight after the TSM party: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34802248&postcount=41

[disneyaddicted]

Hi, My name is Ty, I read your other TR when you went to WDW with 2 broken arms, God Bless you girl! I can't remember if I commented on you TR or not, I think I read it in the completed TR forum so maybe I wasn't able to comment. anyway, I was so excited to find another TR from you because I fell in love with your family while reading your last TR. Your girls are so cute, I love the way you dress them.

IT was your last TR and all the great pictures in it that made me really want to go to MNSSHP, I am finally going this year.
I have done MVMCP in the past, which one do you like best? were alot of adults dressed in costume? My Kids are older, 15 and 17, by the time we go my son will be in the service and my DD doesn't want to go at all so it will be just DH and me, do you think MNSSHP is mainly for kids or did you see alot of adults without kids? Sorry to be full of questions about your old TR.

I agree with you about non ticket holders sticking around for the party, that bugged me a bit too, I had to pay for what they were getting for free.

I can't wait to read more, especialy the sea part of your trip.

[pmama]

Hi, My name is Ty, I read your other TR when you went to WDW with 2 broken arms, God Bless you girl! I can't remember if I commented on you TR or not, I think I read it in the completed TR forum so maybe I wasn't able to comment. anyway, I was so excited to find another TR from you because I fell in love with your family while reading your last TR. Your girls are so cute, I love the way you dress them.

IT was your last TR and all the great pictures in it that made me really want to go to MNSSHP, I am finally going this year.
I have done MVMCP in the past, which one do you like best? were alot of adults dressed in costume? My Kids are older, 15 and 17, by the time we go my son will be in the service and my DD doesn't want to go at all so it will be just DH and me, do you think MNSSHP is mainly for kids or did you see alot of adults without kids? Sorry to be full of questions about your old TR.

I agree with you about non ticket holders sticking around for the party, that bugged me a bit too, I had to pay for what they were getting for free.

I can't wait to read more, especialy the sea part of your trip.


Thanks for the kind words and for coming along for this ride! We loved both MNSSHP and MVMCP. They are both equally special in completely different ways. It is hard to pick one over the other. That being said I think MNSSHP is a tiny bit more of a favorite. The fireworks were AMAZING! It was so fun to dress up and the girls loved collecting candy in the MK! You will have a great time. Many adults go without children so you will not be out of place whatsoever.

[pmama]

Photopass pics!! Got my photopass pics and am going to upload some of the pictures that have already been covered in the TR.:cool1:

First up, our first day at EPCOT!

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0510.jpg

DH and I took a picture without kids since Faith was asleep.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0515.jpg


Then we put Faith in the picture ................asleep.:rotfl2:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0518.jpg


And later, she arose!:yay:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0522.jpg

Evening in Epcot before heading out to TSM party.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0525.jpg



MVMCP
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0527.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0529.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0532.jpg

Love this border!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0533.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0535.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0571.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0566.jpg

[pooh'smate]

I love all the pictures especially the last 2 with the castle.

[pmama]

So, we left off with day 3 Epcot. I posted video from Sum of all Thrills. Here are some photopass pics we got at the Disney Visa Meet. Goofy was quite silly and the girls loved it. He pretended to take me to the side and give me a big smooch. Then he turned and tried to fight DH doing some one leg korate move. It was too cute.:rotfl2:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0613.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0608.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0615.jpg


We then headed over to Journey to Imagination. Faith decided she absolutely did not want to ride because she remembered the stinky part. We love this ride even though it's old and outdated. We convinced her by telling her we'd warn her when it was time to plug her nose. Instead she plugged her nose through the entire ride.:lmao:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/371.jpg

We spent quite a while just playing around in the exit area (not sure what they call this). Here's one side note. All three visits we have made funny pictures and emailed them to family members. The first year they never made it. Second year it worked fine. This year emails were indeed sent to loved ones but they were of foreign people we don't know, NOT US.:confused3
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/372.jpg

The girls each bought some fun bouncy balls. Hope's has Fantasmic Mickey in it and blue glitter, Faith's lights up and makes sound. (Hmmm, where are those right now?):rolleyes:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/373.jpg

It was another fantastically hot day in the high 80's, remember we had just come from -20 degree weather.:beach:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/375.jpg

We then rode Test Track for the second time this trip.:cool1: Family Favorite!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0628.jpg

DD5 (Faith) had been really upset when she saw Snow White at MVMCP at the end of the night and realized she'd missed her chance to see her so I had promised we'd see her at Epcot. So, off we went in search of Snow White in Germany.

First we stopped for a couple more photopass pictures in front of the Epcot tree.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0641.jpg

We made it to Germany and I entered the store to ask when Snow White where we could see Snow White. When I asked the clerk that question she responded, "at any counter".:rolleyes: Once I explained I wanted the live character :laughing: we were told she was on break and would be out again in 15 minutes. So, we joined the handful of people already waiting and waited for Snow White. I'm sure Faith would say it was worth the wait.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0660.jpg

Guess we were on a photopass mission as it looks like we hit a few more on near the lake.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0656.jpg

At this point we looked at the clock at it was a little after 4 p.m. While we thought it would be fun to check out more Santa Storytellers the idea of heading back to the resort to hang out at the pool for a while sounded more appealing to us all. (We truly had a go with the flow sort of mentality this time. Far cry from previous years.):rolleyes1

So, we headed out to the buses with plans to return tonight for Illuminations.
Back at the Pop we saw this cute van driving along the walking paths. Too cute.:cutie:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/380.jpg

The girls changed into their suits and headed to the pool as the sun went down. We were there over the shortest day of the year.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/384.jpg

I got us all dinner at the food court and we ate it by the pool. Sounds lovely right? Not so much, tons of tiny nasty nats started to swam us. We found ourselves eating as fast as possible and shooing them away. DH got the nachos which were fantastic.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/381.jpg

[pmama]

After a nice relaxing couple of hours at the pool we showered and changed into warmer clothing for our return to Epcot for Illuminations. I was the only one who had seen this before. (I went on my own last year.) I knew they would all love it. We made it back in plenty of time to find an adequate viewing spot.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0663.jpg

This picture is funny to us. I really wanted a family picture in front of Spaceship Earth while it was dark. DH was on the phone with his boss and had been for most of the bus ride. The girls got their picture taken and then we stood waiting for DH to get off the phone. DH has a very long winded boss. So, finally after DH realized I was not moving on without the picture he asked his boss to hold for a minute and we took this picture. You can see the cell in DH's hand.:rotfl2: What's even funnier to us is it's one of our favorite pictures. I told DH he should show it to the boss and let him know he too is in the picture (on the phone)!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0665.jpg

Illuminations was simply amazing and it was so nice to be able to share that with the family. The special Christmas bonus was far greater than anything I could have dreamed. They played "Let their be peace on earth." It was glorious. Wish I had recorded it.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/401.jpg

As per her usual routine, Sleeping Beauty fell off to dreamland as soon as she felt tired.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/409-1.jpg

Faith slept as Hope opened her new present for tomorrow, a Princess Tiana outfit.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/413.jpg

It was another successful day in Paradise!

Up Next:hourglass: A full day at Hollywood Studios!

[OhMari]

I had originally made reservations here for the night before we departed but canceled them. Some time when we arrive late or leave early we may try this lovely hotel. The pictures of the pool on top look awesome.



Sorry for getting to your report late, but I just started to read. We were going to stay at the Hyatt- before our cruise last summer and I checked prices, and they were running $250.00. I wasn't going to pay that for a airport hotel.

I ventured over to the Cruise boards and I saw that a bunch of DIS members talk about how they were getting bargain prices for Hyatt either on Expedia or Priceline. I followed all the rules for Expedia and got a 2 queen bed room for $49.:banana: When I checked in, I thought for sure, that I would be told that their was a computer glitch or something. But nope, we had a beautiful room, and I was concerned we would hear the jets come in, but you couldn't hear anything. And, you are right about the pool, which surprised us.

So if you want to find out how to get a room there, give me a PM, and I'll give ya the hints.

On to read the rest of your TR. And, I'm glad you meet OneTreeHillAddict, she writes great TR's too.

[Princess_K]

Looks like you had a great day! Your photopass pics are really cute. Too funny about your husband's boss!

[ladybugmom]

GREAT updates!!! Wow--you got some INCREDIBLE PP pics!! :goodvibes So glad ya'll were able to find Snow White!! I'm cracking up at your hubby on the phone with his boss!! If you remember from my May TR, the only time my DH was on the phone with his boss the stepsisters and stepmother were yelling at him and giving him a talking to for being on the phone!! :lmao:

[MaryAz]

Great update. You guys really had a nice mix of getting stuff done and down time. Very nice PP pics!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Wow. Where to I begin? Your PP pics were all great! Love the ones with the Santa hats. I must say it seemed strange to me to see you in a PP picture without a cast. :rotfl:

Good for you for going with the flow and heading out for the pool. We did that on our trip as well and enjoyed it even more than last year. It IS vacation after all.

Yay for Illuminations! :banana: I love that show. Glad your whole crowd got to see them this time.

I'm just on the edge of my seat waiting for your cruise. And I want to know why trip insurance was needed??????

[MAJ RN]

All caught up on your trip report. your photopass pics are great!!! I really want to try the Sum of all Thrills at Epcot, do you remember what the height requirement was on it? Can't wait to read more.


Melissa

[dddisrunner]

Hi! I am LOVING your report! I read the whole thing last night!!! Your girls are PRECIOUS!! I LOVE their outfits! Thank you for posting all about MVMCP, I have never really seen too many pictures of it, so thanks! I am soooo anxious to hear about your cruise, as we are taking our first Disney cruise on the brand new Dream in June of 2011!:goodvibes

[DisneyJen0504]

Love your TR. You have a beautiful family! :)

[disneymoon_0307]

Your trip report is exactly why I wait until after it gets moved to the completed section. I just can't wait. :rotfl: It's wonderful I can't wait to read more. We are taking (what will be a 2 year old) on her first trip next year and I can't wait. Your family is beautiful. Keep it coming.

[Zookeeperof4]

Great update. The girls are just adorable in their matching dresses and mickey santa hats! Glad you were able to get your camera back, I would have been a wreck! Can't wait to read about your time at MVMCP.

Melissa


Yeah I am glad you got your camera back as we lost ours on the last park day..over 700 pics to. I had hoped that all disney familes are honest...that not the case. Unfortunately.....thank got we still had a great time

[smithpack]

I LOVE all of your PP pictures. It looks so beautiful with all the Christmas decorations. Now I am definitely going to have to plan a trip for that time of year.

I love that Goofy is standing with you ,and Mickey is standing with your DH in your visa cardholder picture.:rotfl2: Goofy always cracks me up. Thanks for posting all the video's!!!

BTW, Faith's haircut is soooo cute. It makes me want to cut mine into a bob.

[tinkmom2]

Your Photopass pics are awesome! I wish mine would have turned out. We only bought 3 using that discount card they hand out at the MVMCP. Well there is always next time! Now I want to go to the MNSHP to see what it's about but I think the next thing we are doing is a cruise on the Dream in 2011;)

[Zookeeperof4]

Love your trip so far..your girls are adorable! You have some great pics so far!!

[*Seanaci*]

Loving the TR!

Fabulous Photopass pictures! You have such a great looking family! Love the one of you guys (and DH's boss ;)) in front of SSE. Too funny!

And I'm sure the girls poncho's came in handy that evening!!

[WDWPrincess486]

I'm loving your TR so far! I think it's hilarious how your DH's boss wound up being in one of your PP pictures in the form of a cell phone (he still counts as being "there," right?!) :rotfl: Love all of your DDs' new outfits (the ponchos are adorable and look so soft and comfy :cloud9:) so far, and the Tiana outfit is too cute! Can't wait to hear more about your adventures :goodvibes

[heaven2dc]

I absolutely loved your photopass pics! Illuminations at Christmas time is purely magical - I can't wait for our trip this year (it will be the first time all of us will be together at WDW, a first time trip for my youngest two sons too).

[pmama]

Sorry for getting to your report late, but I just started to read. We were going to stay at the Hyatt- before our cruise last summer and I checked prices, and they were running $250.00. I wasn't going to pay that for a airport hotel.

I ventured over to the Cruise boards and I saw that a bunch of DIS members talk about how they were getting bargain prices for Hyatt either on Expedia or Priceline. I followed all the rules for Expedia and got a 2 queen bed room for $49.:banana: When I checked in, I thought for sure, that I would be told that their was a computer glitch or something. But nope, we had a beautiful room, and I was concerned we would hear the jets come in, but you couldn't hear anything. And, you are right about the pool, which surprised us.

So if you want to find out how to get a room there, give me a PM, and I'll give ya the hints.

On to read the rest of your TR. And, I'm glad you meet OneTreeHillAddict, she writes great TR's too.

Wow, that is a smokin deal from Priceline! I did read about the deals but was never able to get one. I did book with a stay-certificate price which still would have been half off!

Looks like you had a great day! Your photopass pics are really cute. Too funny about your husband's boss!

Thanks:thumbsup2

GREAT updates!!! Wow--you got some INCREDIBLE PP pics!! :goodvibes So glad ya'll were able to find Snow White!! I'm cracking up at your hubby on the phone with his boss!! If you remember from my May TR, the only time my DH was on the phone with his boss the stepsisters and stepmother were yelling at him and giving him a talking to for being on the phone!! :lmao:

Oh, the stepsisters would be too funny!:rotfl2:

Great update. You guys really had a nice mix of getting stuff done and down time. Very nice PP pics!

Yep, we did mix it up pretty well.;)

Wow. Where to I begin? Your PP pics were all great! Love the ones with the Santa hats. I must say it seemed strange to me to see you in a PP picture without a cast. :rotfl:

Good for you for going with the flow and heading out for the pool. We did that on our trip as well and enjoyed it even more than last year. It IS vacation after all.

Yay for Illuminations! :banana: I love that show. Glad your whole crowd got to see them this time.

I'm just on the edge of my seat waiting for your cruise. And I want to know why trip insurance was needed??????

Yes, I was so glad we all made it to Illuminations this year.:woohoo:

[pmama]

All caught up on your trip report. your photopass pics are great!!! I really want to try the Sum of all Thrills at Epcot, do you remember what the height requirement was on it? Can't wait to read more.


Melissa

I can't for sure remember the height restriction. There were two . One to ride w/o flipping and higher one if you want to flip. I think the first was something like 52".

Hi! I am LOVING your report! I read the whole thing last night!!! Your girls are PRECIOUS!! I LOVE their outfits! Thank you for posting all about MVMCP, I have never really seen too many pictures of it, so thanks! I am soooo anxious to hear about your cruise, as we are taking our first Disney cruise on the brand new Dream in June of 2011!:goodvibes

Thanks so much. I have really enjoyed your TRs as well.:goodvibes I am having the hardest time deciding between doing a 7 night on the Magic or going for the Dream. You will love your cruise.:goodvibes

Love your TR. You have a beautiful family! :)

Thanks.:thumbsup2

Your trip report is exactly why I wait until after it gets moved to the completed section. I just can't wait. :rotfl: It's wonderful I can't wait to read more. We are taking (what will be a 2 year old) on her first trip next year and I can't wait. Your family is beautiful. Keep it coming.

Thanks so much for the kind words and thanks for reading along.:goodvibes

Yeah I am glad you got your camera back as we lost ours on the last park day..over 700 pics to. I had hoped that all disney familes are honest...that not the case. Unfortunately.....thank got we still had a great time

Yes, we were super lucky. It would have been a very unfortunate way to start the trip.

I LOVE all of your PP pictures. It looks so beautiful with all the Christmas decorations. Now I am definitely going to have to plan a trip for that time of year.

I love that Goofy is standing with you ,and Mickey is standing with your DH in your visa cardholder picture.:rotfl2: Goofy always cracks me up. Thanks for posting all the video's!!!

BTW, Faith's haircut is soooo cute. It makes me want to cut mine into a bob.

Thanks, you definitely have to visit that time of year some time. It is great! I like Faith's hair too. In fact, when I was pregnant with her I did have that hairstyle.

Your Photopass pics are awesome! I wish mine would have turned out. We only bought 3 using that discount card they hand out at the MVMCP. Well there is always next time! Now I want to go to the MNSHP to see what it's about but I think the next thing we are doing is a cruise on the Dream in 2011;)

Thanks, we only bought a few photos our first year and I really regreted it. I don't love them all but they are nice for capturing our wonderful memories.:thumbsup2

Love your trip so far..your girls are adorable! You have some great pics so far!!

Thanks:goodvibes

Loving the TR!

Fabulous Photopass pictures! You have such a great looking family! Love the one of you guys (and DH's boss ;)) in front of SSE. Too funny!

And I'm sure the girls poncho's came in handy that evening!!

Too funny huh?:lmao:

I'm loving your TR so far! I think it's hilarious how your DH's boss wound up being in one of your PP pictures in the form of a cell phone (he still counts as being "there," right?!) :rotfl: Love all of your DDs' new outfits (the ponchos are adorable and look so soft and comfy :cloud9:) so far, and the Tiana outfit is too cute! Can't wait to hear more about your adventures :goodvibes

So glad you are enjoying it thus far.;)

I absolutely loved your photopass pics! Illuminations at Christmas time is purely magical - I can't wait for our trip this year (it will be the first time all of us will be together at WDW, a first time trip for my youngest two sons too).

You are right! "purely magical"

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Hi! I'm really enjoying your TR! I'm subscribing!

Your daughters are just adorable! And I love the idea of giving them a gift to open every morning :)

I must say, I'm really intrigued to find our what happens at the end of your trip - I hope its nothing too bad!

[BippityBoo]

LOVE the Photopass pics!! You and the girls look great in pink!

I was wondering if you could help me out. We may be in WDW Dec 12-15th in 2010. How did you find the crowd levels during this time? We usually visit during very slow times, so it is important to us. Thanks so much! Cant WAIT to read about the cruise! :cool1:

PS: Check out my new TR in my siggie! Love to have you :)

[fav_is_tink]

Stumbled upon your TR, what a great start to your trip, looking forward to the next installment!


Your pics are lovely:thumbsup2

[tinkgurl]

Hey! I had no idea you had started another TR! I always love yours, so of course this one is going good too!

Those ponchos you got the girls are so cute!

[disneyaddicted]

Great pictures from Epcot, your whole family is so photogenic, I'm sure you have been told before that you all could be the poster family for Disney, or even do a commercial.

[ladybugmom]

party:Just wanted to wish you a :bday: Brooke!!!! party: Doing anything special for your birthday?!

[pmama]

party:Just wanted to wish you a :bday: Brooke!!!! party: Doing anything special for your birthday?!

Thanks, it was a good day. We just went to dinner since it was a school night. Will me celebrating with my father and family over the weekend as our birthdays are a week apart.:goodvibes

Great pictures from Epcot, your whole family is so photogenic, I'm sure you have been told before that you all could be the poster family for Disney, or even do a commercial.

:laughing: Not so sure about that but thank you.;)

Hey! I had no idea you had started another TR! I always love yours, so of course this one is going good too!

Those ponchos you got the girls are so cute!

Glad you found me here!

Stumbled upon your TR, what a great start to your trip, looking forward to the next installment!


Your pics are lovely:thumbsup2

:welcome:

LOVE the Photopass pics!! You and the girls look great in pink!

I was wondering if you could help me out. We may be in WDW Dec 12-15th in 2010. How did you find the crowd levels during this time? We usually visit during very slow times, so it is important to us. Thanks so much! Cant WAIT to read about the cruise! :cool1:

PS: Check out my new TR in my siggie! Love to have you :)

The crowds this week are fabulous! Just get out before the Sat. the 18th. That's when it gets crazy.:scared1:

[pmama]

Hello Everyone, time for another update!:thumbsup2

We left off at the end of day 3 having just returned from Illuminations. It is now time for day 4!

Day 4 we went to ......................... Hollywood Studios. I was so excited to see Osbourne Lights. I had heard so many good things about it. Infact we changed our original 4 day cruise to a 3 day mainly so that I could get more days in WDW and be able to see the Osbourne Lights.;)


So, Sleeping Beauty finally awoke and opened her present DD9 had opened hers the night before. She was still a bit on the sleepy side.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/416.jpg

Before we headed off to our fun filled day at HS we had a breakfast date with Mickey, Lilo, Stitch, and Pluto at Ohanas!:flower1: We had gone to Ohanas for dinner last year and were not real fond of the all the meat. We did however love the atmosphere so thought we'd try breakfast. As we were running a little behind we once again decided to hitch a ride in a cab.
:laughing: Faith's smile is too much.:laughing:

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/417.jpg

And of course since we took a cab we ended up being way early.:thumbsup2 So, we took some time to snap some pictures. The girls love to come up with their own poses.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/419.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/424.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/425.jpg

The girls enjoyed the atmosphere and the bonus of characters at breakfast.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/427.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/429.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/437.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/438.jpg

We preferred breakfast at Ohanas over dinner although the food wasn't all that great and did not have much variety.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_Ohanabreakfast.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=Ohanabreakfast.flv)

At about that time DISers tmkinney and morgtroy were arriving for breakfast so I waited to meet them. They were kind enough to let me join in a photopass share.:goodvibes Poor things were super late for their breakfast and it was their last day there.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/443.jpg

Finally at about 11:00 we made it to HS.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0669.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0670.jpg

The photographer noticed the girls' Princess Tiana outfits and had them pose like the Princess Tiana. I love it when you get good photographers that think outside the box!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0673.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0678.jpg

A super priority for Hope DD9 was to see the High School Musical 3 show. So, we decided to get that out of the way. It was HOT! We sat right up front directly in the sun and I could feel sweat running down my back. I loved it! (being that it was below freezing in CO). You can see the girls shading their eyes and chugging water here.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/447.jpg

However, after about 15 minutes none of us could take it anymore so we moved to a shaded area on the side to watch the rest.:lmao:

I didn't chronicle our time well with pictures this day but I believe we went to The Little Mermaid next.

Next up: We have a wardrobe change to attend to for very a "super" meeting.:rolleyes1

[ladybugmom]

YAY!! Another great update!! LOVE the Tiana outifts!! :lovestruc Soo cute!! I love all the pics at the Poly and glad you enjoyed your breakfast! How exciting to have a quick DIS meet! :goodvibes The Tiana poses are too cute and I LOVE the new Princess and the Frog PP borders!! I'm interested to hear about this costume change!! popcorn::

[BippityBoo]

Their outfits are ADORABLE! I love that color. Glad to hear you liked Ohanas a little better this time :goodvibes Cant wait to hear about your change!!

[jenniferkeala808]

i'm subbying!! your girls are so cute!!

[cdotla]

Great update! I love those Tiana outfits!!!:goodvibes

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Looks like a fun morning! Those Tiana outfits are so cute!

[burly]

Love your trip reports. Pics are beatiful!
Can't wait for more. popcorn::

[MAJ RN]

The girls Princess Tiana outfits are so cute, love the scarves that go with it. Can't wait to read about the rest of your day.


Melissa

[micandminforever]

I have just finished reading the update portions of your trip and have loved every update. I look forward to reading about the rest of your trip.

Your girls are adorable, and I love their outfits.

[disneyaddicted]

Those were really great pictures of the girls, Faith has a beautiful smile, so precious and contagous, I can't help but smile too.

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Very cute Princess and the Frog pictures! Great pictures from the Poly too! I am surprised to hear you didn't care for the breakfast. Most people rave about it. We've never eaten there for breakfast. The characters were cute though.

[princess&her4princes]

Great updates, been having a hard time finding time to get on DIS lately! So I"ve missed a lot but finally caught up! Love all the girls beautiful outfits, they are sooo cute!!!:cutie: You got some GREAT PP pics, they are great!! Love that you guys got one of just the two of you, too! That never happens once you have kids! LOL!! So good for you!!:thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear more!!:surfweb:

[morgtroy]

Great update. We sure looked like a motley crue...we were running around crazy trying to get everything packed and get to our breakfast. I'm glad to say the rest of the day was much more laid back. Sorry we were so rushed when we met you, but still really nice to say Hi.:)

I'm at home sick and decided to look on the dis for an injection of sunshine. I'm so ready for spring.:)

[pmama]

YAY!! Another great update!! LOVE the Tiana outifts!! :lovestruc Soo cute!! I love all the pics at the Poly and glad you enjoyed your breakfast! How exciting to have a quick DIS meet! :goodvibes The Tiana poses are too cute and I LOVE the new Princess and the Frog PP borders!! I'm interested to hear about this costume change!! popcorn::

I love the Tiana borders! Too cute.

Their outfits are ADORABLE! I love that color. Glad to hear you liked Ohanas a little better this time :goodvibes Cant wait to hear about your change!!

Characters at breakfast is a nice bonus.:goodvibes

i'm subbying!! your girls are so cute!!

:welcome:

Great update! I love those Tiana outfits!!!:goodvibes
Me Too::yes::

Looks like a fun morning! Those Tiana outfits are so cute!

Thanks:thumbsup2

Love your trip reports. Pics are beatiful!
Can't wait for more. popcorn::

Thanks:cool1:

The girls Princess Tiana outfits are so cute, love the scarves that go with it. Can't wait to read about the rest of your day.


Melissa

Thanks for sticking around!

I have just finished reading the update portions of your trip and have loved every update. I look forward to reading about the rest of your trip.

Your girls are adorable, and I love their outfits.

Thanks a bunch!

Those were really great pictures of the girls, Faith has a beautiful smile, so precious and contagous, I can't help but smile too.



Very sweetly said, thanks.:goodvibes

[pmama]

Very cute Princess and the Frog pictures! Great pictures from the Poly too! I am surprised to hear you didn't care for the breakfast. Most people rave about it. We've never eaten there for breakfast. The characters were cute though.

It was okay breakfast but noting spectacular.

Great updates, been having a hard time finding time to get on DIS lately! So I"ve missed a lot but finally caught up! Love all the girls beautiful outfits, they are sooo cute!!!:cutie: You got some GREAT PP pics, they are great!! Love that you guys got one of just the two of you, too! That never happens once you have kids! LOL!! So good for you!!:thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear more!!:surfweb:

Glad you're back. The only reason we got a pictures of the two of us was because Faith was sleeping.

Great update. We sure looked like a motley crue...we were running around crazy trying to get everything packed and get to our breakfast. I'm glad to say the rest of the day was much more laid back. Sorry we were so rushed when we met you, but still really nice to say Hi.:)

I'm at home sick and decided to look on the dis for an injection of sunshine. I'm so ready for spring.:)

Hope you're feeling better. It was super to meet you all in person!

[praisehisname]

Love all the photopass pics you got around World Showcase!

Those nachos at Pop are amazing!

We loved the Ohana breakfast, but haven't tried dinner yet.

I can't figure out the "super" meeting...unless it's the Incredibles?

[smithpack]

I can't wait to see the outfits you change into because your girls are always so adorable. They have such cute outfits!! What do you do with the ones that Faith has outgrown? I will buy them off of you. Of course it will be a couple of years before my DD could wear them, she only wears 3T right now. But it will be a while before we go back.

Also, I loved the picture of the girls in front of the red poinsettia's. Beautiful!! You need to frame that one!

[pmama]

Love all the photopass pics you got around World Showcase!

Those nachos at Pop are amazing!

We loved the Ohana breakfast, but haven't tried dinner yet.

I can't figure out the "super" meeting...unless it's the Incredibles?

Hmmm, you might be pretty close.;)

I can't wait to see the outfits you change into because your girls are always so adorable. They have such cute outfits!! What do you do with the ones that Faith has outgrown? I will buy them off of you. Of course it will be a couple of years before my DD could wear them, she only wears 3T right now. But it will be a while before we go back.

Also, I loved the picture of the girls in front of the red poinsettia's. Beautiful!! You need to frame that one!

Thanks, Most outfits are donated. I really should think about selling some but I'ts always been easier to donate and right as a tax credit.:goodvibes

[pmama]

Continuing on with our fabulous day at Hollywood Studios on day 4. We had already been to Ohanas for breakfast and had seen a few attractions at HS. Next up we went into the restrooms and came out as ......................







































THE INCREDIBLES!!!!!!!!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/450.jpg
We wore these shirts for our 2008 MNSSHP trip. It was great fun. However, I always regreted not having taken a picture with The Incredibles in our shirts. None of really wanted to wear them all day and they were light enough to pack up especially for this too fun photo op. Right after we got in line for The Incredibles Frozone came out to take their place.:sad2: So, we took our picture with Frozone and decided to wait the 30 minutes before they came back out.

While waiting the girls really wanted to get in line for the UP characters. It was a surprisingly long line, as long as Sorcerer Mickey. I personally would have chosen Sorcerer Mickey but the girls won.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0681.jpg

We then made our way back to Frozone. Poor thing did not get many visitors. There were a handful of families waiting in the area for The Incredibles to return. Return they did and we got the great picture I was after. I was disappointed that there was not a photopass person with them.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/458.jpg
Mrs. Incredible was so sweet and wrote long notes in the girls' signature books. It said something like, "For an Incredible Girl _________, etc." She even blew me a kiss for dressing like her.:blush:

So with the photo op we desired taken care of we changed back before heading off to more adventures.

Next we headed off to Playhouse Disney. I love this show. I'll be sad when the girls decide they are too mature for it. Heck, I'll go anyway.:woohoo:

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/460.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/461.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/462.jpg

We ate a quick service lunch then decided to go ahead and find a spot for the parade. There was quite a few people already sitting everywhere. Mind you it was still super hot so there was no way I was going to plant myself in the direct sun. We went ahead and followed our tried and true method of squeezing in a standing room only spot near a path. As soon as the parade starts cast members close the path and we get front row seats!

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/470.jpg

The girls both went out to dance with the CMs!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_HSparade.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=HSparade.flv)
We enjoyed the parade. Although I do have to say that so far the best parade I have seen that models this "stop and put on a show at the spot" thing is by far Disneyland. They did absolutely fantastic and it was mind boggling impressive. HS parade was fun but nothing jaw dropping.

Next up we got in line for the Backlot Tour. We had never done this before. As we finally got on our bus the Motor Action show was wrapping up. We were all wishing we had chosen that show instead since we had never seen that either. From what we saw it was pretty impressive. Now we can saw we've done the Backlot Tour at HS and we can check that off our list for at least the next decade.:lmao:

It was neat to see Walt Disney's plane.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/473.jpg

Faith seems to be enjoying it!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/477.jpg

Next we went to see the Muppets show.


The sun was beginning to go down and we stopped for a couple photo ops.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/480.jpg


http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/481.jpg



There were quite a few people sitting around waiting for the Osbourne Lights. We decided that we'd prefer to come back once the initial crowd was out. (Good choice). So, we went to use our FPs for TSM. Now that we were new experts on the ride we had to give it one more try.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/483.jpg


CONTINUED

[ladybugmom]

YAY! Another update!! First off--LOVE the Incredibles shirts--what a cute pic you got of all of you! And I like the Up pic as well!! The Playhouse Disney Show is a favorite of mine as well! My girls really enjoy it! Oooh--smart tip on getting a good parade spot!! :thumbsup2 The Christmas Carol photo-op is adorable!! Can't wait to read more! :goodvibes

[pmama]

The Osborne Lights truly are as amazing as everyone raves. And it is truly something that must be experienced in person. We went with the intentions of maybe spending up to 30 minutes watching and ended up spending 2 marvelous hours on the Streets of America! I also think we lucked out as far as crowds. We had originally planned HS for a non Fantasmic day hoping that it would be less crowded and we could enjoy the lights. Well, Disney did end up adding Fantasmic to this night but it made it perfect for the lights. The majority of the crowd was gone watching Fantasmic. We bought some hot cocoa and popcorn and spent the first 20 minutes just sitting on a curb, eating popcorn and taking it all in.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/484.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/486.jpg



There were definitely people there but I did not for one minute feel crowded and the girls had plenty of room to dance through the streets and reach for the fake snow. Truly magical

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/th_OsbourneLights.jpg (http://s284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/?action=view&current=OsbourneLights.flv)

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0704.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0706.jpg

Suddenly you could tell Fantasmic was out because it became VERY,VERY crowded. At that point is was no longer enjoyable and we squeezed our way out being thankful we got to take it all in beforehand.


That night MVMCP fireworks and Illuminations fireworks went off at the same time. We saw it all from the Pop. It was absolutely beautiful. I couldn't get the best picture to capture it but at times there was a full panoramic view of fireworks. Perfect ending to a beautiful night!

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/507.jpg
Up Next, Final Day in MK

[ladybugmom]

Oh wow!! The Osborne Lights look absolutely AMAZING!!! :lovestruc I cannot wait to see this when we go in Dec.!!! LOVE the family pics! Were these taken by a PP photographer?!

[pmama]

Oh wow!! The Osborne Lights look absolutely AMAZING!!! :lovestruc I cannot wait to see this when we go in Dec.!!! LOVE the family pics! Were these taken by a PP photographer?!

You're too quick Becky!:goodvibes I accidentally hit something and posted the last one before I was done editing. The correct video is attached now if you want to check it out.:thumbsup2

[MAJ RN]

Great update but I cannot see any of your pictures!! Can't wait to read more!


Melissa

[Zookeeperof4]

Great update but I cannot see any of your pictures!! Can't wait to read more!


Melissa

Thanks for posting that as I was wondering am I the only one who cant see the pictures???? I kept refreshing thinking it was my PC loading it wrong...

[pmama]

Great update but I cannot see any of your pictures!! Can't wait to read more!


Melissa

Thanks for posting that as I was wondering am I the only one who cant see the pictures???? I kept refreshing thinking it was my PC loading it wrong...


Sorry guys, I just renewed to PRO on photobucket so the pics should pop up soon!

[disneyaddicted]

awww, I'm so glad you got your pictures with the Incredibles, what fun!
I wasn't too impressed with the backlot tour either, bu tlike you I can at least check it off the list and on my next trip I plan to cross the motor action show off my list.

I have never been to playhouse Disney, my kids were already too old on our first trip, but last December they had a Deejay out front in the evening and I had a ball listening and dancing to the music, it was great.

Osbourne Lights, aren't they amazing, I had seen pictures before but once I saw it in person it blew my mind, it will always be a favorite of mine.

I know that you have posted this before, byt what building at Pop do you stay in that you can see the fireworks from some of the parks?

[*Seanaci*]

*twiddles thumbs waiting on the pictures to pop up*

Sometimes technology isn't the greatest. :D

I'll come back to re-read and check out the pics in a while. :D

[Zookeeperof4]

*twiddles thumbs waiting on the pictures to pop up*

Sometimes technology isn't the greatest. :D

I'll come back to re-read and check out the pics in a while. :D

I just started reading your Blog...is it secret as in Daddy doesnt know either? LOL....

[*Seanaci*]

I just started reading your Blog...is it secret as in Daddy doesnt know either? LOL....

:rotfl2:

Nope. Dad is on it. As is my husband. The only one out of the loop is my mom. :D

[lmillercrew]

Oh I'm so excited that you renewed! I still can't see the pics, but read through everything. Somehow it's just not the same as seeing the pictures with the words.

[miprender]

I still can't see the pictures, but I feel another PTR after this one is done.:surfweb: Did you book a trip in Feb?? :goodvibes

[pmama]

awww, I'm so glad you got your pictures with the Incredibles, what fun!
I wasn't too impressed with the backlot tour either, bu tlike you I can at least check it off the list and on my next trip I plan to cross the motor action show off my list.

I have never been to playhouse Disney, my kids were already too old on our first trip, but last December they had a Deejay out front in the evening and I had a ball listening and dancing to the music, it was great.

Osbourne Lights, aren't they amazing, I had seen pictures before but once I saw it in person it blew my mind, it will always be a favorite of mine.

I know that you have posted this before, byt what building at Pop do you stay in that you can see the fireworks from some of the parks?


I stay in building 3 (50's sections) at POP but there are even more viewing spots in building 2.

*twiddles thumbs waiting on the pictures to pop up*

Sometimes technology isn't the greatest. :D

I'll come back to re-read and check out the pics in a while. :D

Oh I'm so excited that you renewed! I still can't see the pics, but read through everything. Somehow it's just not the same as seeing the pictures with the words.

SORRY, I'M HAVING ISSUES WITH PHOTOBUCKET. I RENEWED AND THEY NEVER SENT ME A CONFIRM NUMBER. I SENT THEM AN EMAIL AND DID GET A REPLY BUT STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CONFIRM NUMBER FROM THEM SO THAT MY PICS WILL POP BACK UP. GRRRRRRRRRR;)

I still can't see the pictures, but I feel another PTR after this one is done.:surfweb: Did you book a trip in Feb?? :goodvibes

Nope, in fact no Disney vacation plans for us at all in the year 2010.:sad2: But we do have a cruise booked for March 2011.:goodvibes

[*Seanaci*]

SORRY, I'M HAVING ISSUES WITH PHOTOBUCKET. I RENEWED AND THEY NEVER SENT ME A CONFIRM NUMBER. I SENT THEM AN EMAIL AND DID GET A REPLY BUT STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CONFIRM NUMBER FROM THEM SO THAT MY PICS WILL POP BACK UP. GRRRRRRRRRR;)


Lol. Gotta love photobucket. I can never remember my password for PB. :D

[ladybugmom]

Sorry you're having issues with PB! I hope they fix it soon so we can read another update!! :goodvibes And YAY For another cruise in 2011!!!! :banana:

[micandminforever]

Loving your report, I can't wait to see the pictures with the incredibles, and read about your last day at MK.

Building 3 facing the lake is one of my favorite spots at Pop, because of the fireworks.

[pmama]

Lol. Gotta love photobucket. I can never remember my password for PB. :D

Well, definitely took longer and more hastle than expected but pics are finally up.:thumbsup2

Sorry you're having issues with PB! I hope they fix it soon so we can read another update!! :goodvibes And YAY For another cruise in 2011!!!! :banana:

Yep,we may not be doing Disney in 2010 (although there is a slight chance for DLR), but at least I can be happy knowing we have our next adventure booked.:goodvibes

Loving your report, I can't wait to see the pictures with the incredibles, and read about your last day at MK.

Building 3 facing the lake is one of my favorite spots at Pop, because of the fireworks.

It really is a fabulous view for a value resort isn't it.;)

[micandminforever]

Yea I can see pictures of your beautiful girls.

[smithpack]

:yay: Yay! The pictures are back!

I love the video footage of the Osbourne lights. I also love the pictures of your family with the lights all around you guys. Those pictures turned out beautiful.

I have been loving the TR so far, but am super excited to find out about the cruise. :woohoo: You must have liked it if you have already planned another one!

[Zookeeperof4]

Yay!!! I got to see the pics come up. Cant wait to see the next post

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Yay! Your pictures are showing! :woohoo: I didn't read the update until they were up. What a great night. Ahhhh the elusive Osborne Lights. :rotfl2: Man they are awesome! We did the same thing as you by going during Fantasmic. That is absolutely the best time to go (if they had kept them on that is!!:mad:) Love the family shot in the tunnel of lights.

That's great that you could see 2 fireworks shows at once from Pop! That is a great ending to your night for sure!:cloud9:

[pmama]

Yay! Your pictures are showing! :woohoo: I didn't read the update until they were up. What a great night. Ahhhh the elusive Osborne Lights. :rotfl2: Man they are awesome! We did the same thing as you by going during Fantasmic. That is absolutely the best time to go (if they had kept them on that is!!:mad:) Love the family shot in the tunnel of lights.

That's great that you could see 2 fireworks shows at once from Pop! That is a great ending to your night for sure!:cloud9:

:cool1: Yes, I'm relieved they are finally up! It is definitely better to view Osborne Lights during Fantasmic!

Yay!!! I got to see the pics come up. Cant wait to see the next post

:woohoo:

:yay: Yay! The pictures are back!

I love the video footage of the Osbourne lights. I also love the pictures of your family with the lights all around you guys. Those pictures turned out beautiful.

I have been loving the TR so far, but am super excited to find out about the cruise. :woohoo: You must have liked it if you have already planned another one!

We're getting close to the cruise TR.;)

Yea I can see pictures of your beautiful girls.

:yay:

[Princess_K]

I didn't want to comment on your update until the pics were up... It looks like you had a great day at DHS. I'm glad you enjoyed the Osborne Lights so much. They really are amazing...probably the highlight of my December trip!

[praisehisname]

Your picture with The Incredibles turned out great!


Next we headed off to Playhouse Disney. I love this show. I'll be sad when the girls decide they are too mature for it. Heck, I'll go anyway.:woohoo:

I'll go with you! I only got to see it once before my girls decided they were too old. :sad1:

Great update!

Denise

[miprender]

We tried Playhouse Disney for the first time on our last trip, but the kids keep telling me they didn't like sitting on the floor.:rotfl: Plus I think we sat too close to the stage that we really couldn't see anything.

But DS2 loved it so we will still try it again.


I love the picks with the Incredibles. ;)This trip I am going to try to get more pics with the characters.

[pmama]

We tried Playhouse Disney for the first time on our last trip, but the kids keep telling me they didn't like sitting on the floor.:rotfl: Plus I think we sat too close to the stage that we really couldn't see anything.

But DS2 loved it so we will still try it again.


I love the picks with the Incredibles. ;)This trip I am going to try to get more pics with the characters.

I've always thought it would be difficult to see up front. We've always ended up towards the back.

Your picture with The Incredibles turned out great!


It's a keeper! Thanks.:goodvibes

I'll go with you! I only got to see it once before my girls decided they were too old. :sad1:

Great update!

Denise

O.K.! What's funny is there were several older people in wheelchairs in the back. We wondered if they knew what attraction they were waiting for.;)

I didn't want to comment on your update until the pics were up... It looks like you had a great day at DHS. I'm glad you enjoyed the Osborne Lights so much. They really are amazing...probably the highlight of my December trip!

Yes, Osborne Lights are worth entrance fee alone! Amazing:goodvibes

[MickeyMomTo2]

Hello! I have been reading your TR, but I haven't posted. Were you at Hollywood Studios on 12/15? We were, and we saw Frozone and waited for Mr. and Mrs. Incredible to come back out, and I think we saw you there with your matching shirts. Your TR is great. Can't wait to read the rest!

[Mich123]

Hooray, hooray, the pictures are up! :woohoo: That Incredibles picture is just perfect!

[pmama]

Hooray, hooray, the pictures are up! :woohoo: That Incredibles picture is just perfect!


:yay: Thanks

Hello! I have been reading your TR, but I haven't posted. Were you at Hollywood Studios on 12/15? We were, and we saw Frozone and waited for Mr. and Mrs. Incredible to come back out, and I think we saw you there with your matching shirts. Your TR is great. Can't wait to read the rest!

Yep, I think it was the 15th! How funny, I bet we were there the same time. We did notice a couple other families waiting for The Incredibles.:goodvibes

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

I LOVE the picture with the Incredibles! What a great idea to bring your shirts along to change into! :goodvibes

And WOW at the Osborne lights! They look so amazing - I would love to see them in person one day! We were at Disney the first week of January and they were still up, but we were only at DHS in the daytime so we didn't get to see them :sad1: I bet your girls loved them!

[MickeyMomTo2]

Yep, I think it was the 15th. How funny, I bet we were there the same time. We did notice a couple other families waiting for The Incredibles.:goodvibes

While we waited for them to come out, we went to see Mickey. You were probably with the UP characters then. As we walked away from the Incredibles, your family walked up. My 5-year-old daughter LOVED your shirts. She has been all about the Incredibles for the last several months.

Can't wait to read the rest of your report. We've never done a cruise, so I can't wait for that part!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Signing on! Just read through your report and I am really enjoying it. You have a beautiful family!

The photopass picture with your husband's boss on the cell phone is too funny. :laughing:

[Momof2princess]

Great update!!!

I love your pics of the Osbourne Lights. We have never been during that time but hope one day soon to see them.

[pmama]

Great update!!!

I love your pics of the Osbourne Lights. We have never been during that time but hope one day soon to see them.

Yes, it truly is an especially magical time.;)

Signing on! Just read through your report and I am really enjoying it. You have a beautiful family!

The photopass picture with your husband's boss on the cell phone is too funny. :laughing:

:welcome: Glad you're here!

I LOVE the picture with the Incredibles! What a great idea to bring your shirts along to change into! :goodvibes

And WOW at the Osborne lights! They look so amazing - I would love to see them in person one day! We were at Disney the first week of January and they were still up, but we were only at DHS in the daytime so we didn't get to see them :sad1: I bet your girls loved them!

Oh, bummer you just missed the Osborne light. At least you got to see Disney all dressed up for the Holidays!

[Cheryl726]

Just found your TR and enjoying it! You have a beautiful family. Love your photopass pics. Can't wait to hear about the cruise!

[pmama]

Just found your TR and enjoying it! You have a beautiful family. Love your photopass pics. Can't wait to hear about the cruise!

:welcome:

[pmama]

The last update left off at the end of our magical day at Hollywood Studios and our first ever time at Osborne Lights! We are now to day 5 which was back to the MK! It is our last full day in WDW before heading off to the cruise.:goodvibes

The girls had been eyeing the biggest present packed since we got there and it was finally time to open it. I had wrapped both the girls' presents together.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/005.jpg


They unwrapped to find Christmas Belle dresses. (They had seen these on Disney.com before we left and really wanted them but did not know I ordered them.) Today we are going to BBB!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/006.jpg

Today we were on a mission to make it to rope drop. As you may remember up to this point we had been more of night owls on this particular trip. So, we made it out to the bus stop by about 8:20. After a while a bus came and it looked like we just might make it when all of the sudden someone pulled up on a scooter. We all know that takes time. So, unfortunately by the time we were all loaded in we just missed the fabulous rope drop ceremony at MK.:sad2:

When we arrived we sent DH on a mission to FP Space Mountain with plans to meet at BTMR. The girls and I knew he'd take a while so we stopped for some photos on Main Street.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0711.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0716.jpg

The CM said something that made me laugh in this pic.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0717.jpg

Streets were pretty empty so we stopped for the next photog as well.;)
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0723.jpg

These were the first shots the girls had gotten with the Tinkerbell pose this trip and DD9 had really been wanting them.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0724.jpg

We finally met up with DH at a very empty Adventureland for POTC and Jungle Cruise.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/010.jpg

Lines were still pretty nonexistant this early in the morning. In fact it was a MVMC day which usually draws less crowds until closer to the party. (Which we would not be attending.)

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/012.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/015.jpg

My DH was all too thrilled (NOT) that I insisted we go to Tiki Room. I did have a secret agenda though. The waiting area makes for a fabulous colorful backdrop for pictures.:laughing:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/016.jpg
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/017.jpg

(The pic in my sig. of the girls w/ Minnie ears was taken in the same spot Sept. 2008).

I'm sure I'm missing a few things but judging from the pictures we went to Mickey's Philharmagic and ate lunch at Pinnochios.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/019.jpg

The girls love eating next to the window so they can wave at all the people riding Small World. (We never did ride Small World this go around.) I thing we were over exposed in DLR in May. In fact we rode it twice at DLR and twice last time we were in WDW so I think we're good. Not to mention it we really prefer the updates at DLR to the version in WDW.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/020.jpg

After our early lunch it was finally the time the girls had been waiting for. (Me too.);) Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! They did such a great job treating the girls like royalty when we first arrived. We told them that we had brough our own dresses. So the girls had a seat and waiting to be called back to the Royal Changing Chambers. Here they are deciding how to have their hair done.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/021.jpg

We were all escorted back to help them change. Here the girls are admiring their new dresses. They loved them!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/022-1.jpg

The girls returned to the waiting area and waited their name to be called.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/026.jpg

CONTINUED

[pmama]

Faith was called back first. We all went back including DD9 while she waited her turn. They were very good at acknowleding Hope and reassuring her that she would be next. I wasn't very fond of Faith's Fairy Godmother. She was a bit cranky and not very magical but we tried to just enjoy the moment. I liked it better our first visit when each girl had two Fairy Godmothers in training. (One for hair and one for nails.) Faith did not want the wig hairpiece and her Fairy Godmother told her she could not get the Princess updo because she did not have enough hair. Unfortunately for her I knew she was wrong as Faith got the Princess updo with the same amount of hair two years prior. I think that's what made her a bit grumpy. ;) She did eventually do that style but it was more difficult for her.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0740.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0744.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0749.jpg

In the end Faith was very happy with her updo!
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0755.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0758.jpg

While Faith was still getting worked on Hope was called. Her Fairy Godmother in training was a bit friendlier. Hope caused the opposite problem in doing the Princess updo in that she had too much hair.:lmao:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0737.jpg

It took two ladies to do her hair but in the end it turned out just perfect.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0764.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0777.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0782.jpg

All I can say is that if you are going to BBB it is definitely worth it to buy the photopass CD. They take TONS of pics. Far more than I've included here.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0786.jpg

This is one of my favorite pictures taken of the girls outside the castle just after leaving BBB.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0795.jpg

Up Next: Our continued magical day in MK and dinner at 1900 Park Fare!

[smithpack]

Your girls are such beautiful princesses. I hate that Faith got a grumpy fairy godmother. That stinks.:sad2: Oh well, at least they looked so beautiful at the end. My DD is finally going to be able to do the BBB when we go next year. I have been dying to do this experience. :goodvibes

I can't remember what time you went, but I can't believe there were no crowds in those morning pictures in front of the castle. I would think everybody would be getting there at the same time and there would be people everywhere.:confused3 Oh well, that's good for you.

[jenniferkeala808]

awww your girls are soooo beautiful!! looks like they had a lot of fun! i just love their outfits..can't wait to see more!

P.S. i was just looking at the High School Musical pictures and i see my friend in one! he's the one in the back with the tie! pretty cool you folks got to see it!

[Princess_K]

BBB looks like it was a great experience! You can really tell how much your youngest DD loves the new dress in that photo of them looking in the mirror. It's really cute :)

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

All your BBB pictures are beautiful. The dresses are gorgeous! Love the shot in front of the castle with them on.

We don't like the Tiki Room either. My DH informed me that we would not be doing that or the Country Bears anymore! I think they both need some updating.

Looking forward to Park Fare!

[ariel1025]

Great update! I can't get over how precious your girls are:goodvibes

[pmama]

Your girls are such beautiful princesses. I hate that Faith got a grumpy fairy godmother. That stinks.:sad2: Oh well, at least they looked so beautiful at the end. My DD is finally going to be able to do the BBB when we go next year. I have been dying to do this experience. :goodvibes

I can't remember what time you went, but I can't believe there were no crowds in those morning pictures in front of the castle. I would think everybody would be getting there at the same time and there would be people everywhere.:confused3 Oh well, that's good for you.

I think we must have gotten there just after the initial crowd sifted through.:goodvibes

awww your girls are soooo beautiful!! looks like they had a lot of fun! i just love their outfits..can't wait to see more!

P.S. i was just looking at the High School Musical pictures and i see my friend in one! he's the one in the back with the tie! pretty cool you folks got to see it!


Oh, too fun you saw your friend. You must know him well as I looked and can't make out a face.

BBB looks like it was a great experience! You can really tell how much your youngest DD loves the new dress in that photo of them looking in the mirror. It's really cute :)

I'm glad we got to experience it one last time.

All your BBB pictures are beautiful. The dresses are gorgeous! Love the shot in front of the castle with them on.

We don't like the Tiki Room either. My DH informed me that we would not be doing that or the Country Bears anymore! I think they both need some updating.

Looking forward to Park Fare!

What is funny is that we LOOOOVe Country Bears. :lmao: It's just classic, although I wouldn't mind an update.

Great update! I can't get over how precious your girls are:goodvibes

Thanks, you're sweet.:hug:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Love the BBB pictures! I hope that someday we have little girls in the family so that I can take them. :goodvibes

[micandminforever]

The BBB pictures are wonderful, with the Belle dresses. The picture in front of the castle was my favorite. I love their smiles and pose.

Your girls are so cute all dressed up for the ball, at 1900 Park Place. Did they get to dance with the Prince? Where the stepsisters jealous?

[tinkmom2]

My daughter Claire will be 5 turning 6 next time we go to WDW but she has such fine, short hair, I don't know how they would do a updew on her? Your pics are awesome. Sorry the CM almost ruined your experience:( My oldest had the rock star hair dew at the BBB a few years back. She didn't wear a dress but a princess t shirt and sash. Everywhere we went the CMs were saying "Welcome Princess" I thought that was so neat!

[praisehisname]

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0723.jpg

Those dresses are adorable! Did you make them?


http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll18/brookedannar/December%20WDW%202009/Image0786.jpg

The girls look amazing! So precious!

Denise

[ladybugmom]

What great PP pics as always!! :goodvibes I love the Christmas Belle dresses--sooo pretty! And the BBB--what fun! Sorry Faith didn't have the best FGIT but she turned out beautifully! (as did Hope) LOVE the pic of them in front of the castle all made up!! :lovestruc Can't wait to read more! :goodvibes

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Awww...your girls look so cute :cutie: And those dresses are absolutely beautiful!

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day! :goodvibes

[WDWCrazyfromGA]

Enjoying your TR Brooke! Thanks so much for sharing! Your girls look beautiful after their BBB experience.

Looking forward to the next installment popcorn::

[jenniferkeala808]

Oh, too fun you saw your friend. You must know him well as I looked and can't make out a face.

Hehe yeah, he's one of my best friends. I can tell that's him!!

[miprender]

Love the pics of BBB. :love:

I have to make sure DD6 doesn't see them as she wants to do this. We were suppose to go there on our last trip but cancelled the appt. I thought she had forgotten all about it but brought the subject up the other day.:confused: I don't think we will do it this trip either since we just booked a Pirate and Pals Voyage and DH said no more spending!!!!:rotfl:

[jenseib]

I just found your TR and am only on page 3, but have to comment already!
1st off your girls are just gorgeous. I wish I had Hope's hair! LOL!
Also how awesome you got to meet Tammy and family. We both were there at the same time last March, but never ran into each other. But it sounds like we were close to each other many times!
What exact dates did you go? I am hoping that DH will come around and let us all go this Dec. I am thinking the 8-14th. What were the temps like for the most part?
And how did you get to go to this private party at HS? It looks so cool! I love how the park is so deserted as you were leaving in your video.
I'm sure I'll have more questions/comments, but I am excited to start reading the rest.

[pmama]

Love the BBB pictures! I hope that someday we have little girls in the family so that I can take them. :goodvibes

It really IS a fun experience.:goodvibes

The BBB pictures are wonderful, with the Belle dresses. The picture in front of the castle was my favorite. I love their smiles and pose.

Your girls are so cute all dressed up for the ball, at 1900 Park Place. Did they get to dance with the Prince? Where the stepsisters jealous?

Ha, we love 1900 Park Fare, especially the stepsisters.:laughing:

My daughter Claire will be 5 turning 6 next time we go to WDW but she has such fine, short hair, I don't know how they would do a updew on her? Your pics are awesome. Sorry the CM almost ruined your experience:( My oldest had the rock star hair dew at the BBB a few years back. She didn't wear a dress but a princess t shirt and sash. Everywhere we went the CMs were saying "Welcome Princess" I thought that was so neat!

It is impressive what they can do with just a little amount of hair. Your DD may be able to get the updo.;)

Those dresses are adorable! Did you make them?


Oh, no.:lmao: I didn't make them. I had them custom made from a lady on ebay.

The girls look amazing! So precious!

Denise

Thanks!

What great PP pics as always!! :goodvibes I love the Christmas Belle dresses--sooo pretty! And the BBB--what fun! Sorry Faith didn't have the best FGIT but she turned out beautifully! (as did Hope) LOVE the pic of them in front of the castle all made up!! :lovestruc Can't wait to read more! :goodvibes

I do love those dresses. They were perfect for that time of year and unique. We did not see one other girl with one.

Awww...your girls look so cute :cutie: And those dresses are absolutely beautiful!

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day! :goodvibes

Thank you:goodvibes

[pmama]

Enjoying your TR Brooke! Thanks so much for sharing! Your girls look beautiful after their BBB experience.

Looking forward to the next installment popcorn::

Glad you're enjoying it.:thumbsup2


Love the pics of BBB. :love:

I have to make sure DD6 doesn't see them as she wants to do this. We were suppose to go there on our last trip but cancelled the appt. I thought she had forgotten all about it but brought the subject up the other day.:confused: I don't think we will do it this trip either since we just booked a Pirate and Pals Voyage and DH said no more spending!!!!:rotfl:

Pirate and Pals Voyage sounds like a great time! We ended up paying for the entire BBB experience with Disney Visa reward dollars.:banana:

I just found your TR and am only on page 3, but have to comment already!
1st off your girls are just gorgeous. I wish I had Hope's hair! LOL!
Also how awesome you got to meet Tammy and family. We both were there at the same time last March, but never ran into each other. But it sounds like we were close to each other many times!
What exact dates did you go? I am hoping that DH will come around and let us all go this Dec. I am thinking the 8-14th. What were the temps like for the most part?
And how did you get to go to this private party at HS? It looks so cool! I love how the park is so deserted as you were leaving in your video.
I'm sure I'll have more questions/comments, but I am excited to start reading the rest.

Glad you're here! We wend Dec. 11-23. We loved December but will never come back that close to Christmas again so I think you're dates are great! I got to the private party by transfering our vacation to Dreams Unlimited! It was a unique experience that's for sure.

[lilpapsgirl]

just popping by to say that I have enjoyed your TR so far. The girls look like they had a wonderful time. I can't wait to read about your cruise. My husband and I have always wanted to do a Disney Cruise, but just haven't gotten to it yet.

[mmorrison]

Your girls are absolutely adorable! I can't wait to hear about the rest of your adventure or misadventure as your title suggests!!!

Miranda

[lmillercrew]

The girls look beautiful! Those dresses look like more than just a dress up dress. Are they? Like you could wear them to church or the like?

[MaryAz]

How beautiful! Glad they got the do"s they wanted. My ODD has short hair so I am glad to see it can be done. Beautiful dresses!!

[hjohnson6]

Hello from your neighboring state to the North. I am subbing. I read your last trip report. I don't think I would have been brave enough to go with two broken arms. Your girls are cute!

[*Seanaci*]

Finally getting a moment to sit and comment. LOVE the girls Belle dresses...they're beautiful! Your TR makes me want to TRY and go back this December. :D

[AlohaAnnie]

Hi! I am really enjoying your TR, I definately want to hear more. We are planning a Land/Sea Christmas trip in December 2011 at the World and on the new Dream. I am curious about your experience at Castaway Cay and how the weather was.

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Haven't been on in quite some time but had to come see your TR! I :love: the pic of you guys with The Incredibles! It's soooooooo CUTE! Also, the girls at BBB in their GORGEOUS Belle dresses! Priceless! Can't wait to see more! Hope you all had a GREAT Valentines day! :goodvibes

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Haven't been on in quite some time but had to come see your TR! I :love: the pic of you guys with The Incredibles! It's soooooooo CUTE! Also, the girls at BBB in their GORGEOUS Belle dresses! Priceless! Can't wait to see more! Hope you all had a GREAT Valentines day! :goodvibes

Hey Tammy! I just had to say hello and tell you how much I have missed your TRs. You have been missed around here lately!

Sorry pmama, I know this was :offtopic: Forgive me :flower3:

[smithpack]

Waiting on your next installment. Excited to hear about the cruise part, but still enjoying the WDW part as well. :goodvibes

[pmama]

Sorry I've abandoned my TR the last two weeks. I plan to get well into the cruise portion this weekend. I have been distracted by very exciting planning.


Guess What? .................................................. ............................


I am going back to Florida in 3 WEEKS!!!! Can you believe it.:scared1::banana::cool1::dance3::yay::woohoo::c heer2:

My mother (Granita) decided very last minute she'd love to take the girls and I somewhere for Spring Break. She looked into her time share in Mazatlan but flights were $600 pp. (And the girls do not have passports yet.) So, I have been feverishly searching for the best value with warm weather (that is what she is after.) For about the price of flying to Mazatlan we are now flying to Miami and taking a 7 night cruise on Liberty of the Seas.:cool1: We got an absolutely amazing rate on both the cruise and the flights but it took 2 solid weeks of frustrating work to get the best value. I have never spent that much time watching flights come and go and get more expensive. Somehow we managed non-stop flights in and out of Miami at a cheaper rate than I have ever paid to go to Florida.

We will be going to Labadee, Jamaica, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman Islands! Now, I can also compare RCL to a Disney cruise. I must admit their ports are more exciting. How completely lucky are we? Two amazing West coast trips 3 months apart.:yay:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Sounds like fun!

[jenseib]

Hey!!! Grandma forgot about me and my two girls! LOL!
Have fun. I am so jealous. I am going stir crazy this winter.

[Princess_K]

That's so exciting! I think we all can understand why you've been busy...super jealous :)

[morgtroy]

Can't wait to hear your comparison of Royal Caribbean. I've cruised with them and loved it. But from what I can tell, even within the same cruise line, it varies from ship to ship, depending on the cruise director and things.

That's wonderful news, count me in as jealous also.:)

[praisehisname]

That's great news about your spring break plans! I'm eager to hear your comparision. We've done both DCL and RCCL and we definitely thought RCCL's private island was better.

[Cheryl726]

Sounds great! Have a great time!

[lmillercrew]

How AMAZING! I was just in Cozumel in October! If you have enough time, rent a car and drive to the other side of the island. The views and beaches are INCREDIBLE! I can't even describe the beauty!!
http://i337.photobucket.com/albums/n367/lmillercrew/SANY1321.jpg
http://i337.photobucket.com/albums/n367/lmillercrew/SANY1243.jpg
Just a teaser!!!

[DisneyDaddio]

Joining in. What a fantastic trip report! Can't wait to hear about the cruise portion.

Oh, and congrats on the upcoming spring break trip!