You're Here BY YOURSELF? A Solo TR COMPLETED! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

creativeamanda

12-28-2009, 08:59 PM

Table of Contents. . .

You're Here By Yourself? A Solo TR (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34785808&postcount=1)

7am Arrival. . .Where will I go First? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34791256&postcount=10)

Space Mountian, Here I Come! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34803442&postcount=23)

Tower of Terror and Drinking Don't Mix (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34849698&postcount=38)

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34938961&postcount=58)

Day 1 Photopass (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35034855&postcount=71)

Shopping (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35035017&postcount=72)

Before the Party (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35143875&postcount=84)

It's PARTY TIME! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35193987&postcount=97)

"I like your shirt. Where'd you get it from?" Answer--"My homegirl TK" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35203710&postcount=102)

Coral Reef and Illuminations (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35231203&postcount=112)

Lions and Tigers and Monkeys (Oh, My!) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35274081&postcount=121)

Is it too cold for a water ride? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35489909&postcount=142)

My New Favorite Restaurant (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35531844&postcount=159)

Hopping over to Magic Kingdom EMH (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35571061&postcount=169)

Holiday Wishes (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35627049&postcount=173)

Sleeping In and Shopping--My 2 Favorite Indulgences (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35713589&postcount=176)

It's All Coming Back to Me (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35721514&postcount=185)

Flying Fish (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36066998&postcount=205)

The Osborne Lights (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36102880&postcount=210)

Rope Drop at Magic Kingdom (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36199901&postcount=225)

The Christmas Parade (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36200188&postcount=226)

Hopping the Parks (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36272678&postcount=240)

Crowded Buses Make Me Nervous (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36298954&postcount=253)

Epcot for the Weary Traveler (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36310272&postcount=256)

Resort Hopping (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36394187&postcount=274)

Where Did I Go? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36485716&postcount=283)

Leaving my home behind (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36487182&postcount=289)

disneyshakeygirl

12-28-2009, 09:20 PM

Subscribing! I've been by myself before and I got many of the same questions :) I'm going by myself Spring 2010 and staying in Port Orleans French Quarter!

KatMark

12-28-2009, 10:32 PM

I've never gone by myself and have no plans to do so, but your report sounds like fun so I'm here for the duration.

creativeamanda

12-29-2009, 09:37 AM

Subscribing! I've been by myself before and I got many of the same questions :) I'm going by myself Spring 2010 and staying in Port Orleans French Quarter!

:welcome: So glad you are here! You know, I thought I'd be uncomfortable by the questions, but I wasn't.

I've never gone by myself and have no plans to do so, but your report sounds like fun so I'm here for the duration.

:welcome: I really had an awesome time.

ClareH37

12-29-2009, 10:15 AM

LegoMom3

12-29-2009, 10:25 AM

Well get on with it, woman!!....I wanna see how this goes!:lmao:

I really, really can't wait to read more. I'm so glad you got to do this trip. I would LOVE to stay at FQ on my solo but it just pushes the cost up a tad too high for me. And on that note, how was the food court?......:eek::rotfl:

.

heaven2dc

12-29-2009, 10:27 AM

How exciting that you got to go by yourself! I was alone for the first 4 days last December until my DD, DGS and her ex-bf joined me for the last 4 days and I loved being by myself. I did get a little lonely (I've been on a 7-day cruise by myself and cried my 4th night cuz I missed my kids - silly isn't it? They were all grown up pretty much except my youngest).

Hope you had a grand time!

creativeamanda

12-29-2009, 10:37 AM

Can't wait to read more :goodvibes I have my first solo trip in May, it was a choice of not going (my boyfriend and friends would prefer to lounge on a beach sipping rum punch instead!) or going by myself ..... you can guess what I chose :yay:

Great choice and :welcome:

Well get on with it, woman!!....I wanna see how this goes!:lmao:

I really, really can't wait to read more. I'm so glad you got to do this trip. I would LOVE to stay at FQ on my solo but it just pushes the cost up a tad too high for me. And on that note, how was the food court?......:eek::rotfl:

.

I'll have to get to the food court. Needless to say, I ate outside on the first trip, lol.

How exciting that you got to go by yourself! I was alone for the first 4 days last December until my DD, DGS and her ex-bf joined me for the last 4 days and I loved being by myself. I did get a little lonely (I've been on a 7-day cruise by myself and cried my 4th night cuz I missed my kids - silly isn't it? They were all grown up pretty much except my youngest).

Hope you had a grand time!

I did not cry becasue I missed the kids, but several times I wished the kids could see certain things.

creativeamanda

12-29-2009, 11:09 AM

The night before, I drove as far as Richmond Hill, GA, and slept at a pretty new Best Western. I was given a 3rd floor room, and although I was pretty darn tired, I couldn't sleep. I got in at 9pm and went to bed at 10pm. And then woke up.

At 11pm

12am

2am. . .

You get the picture. At 2:30, I finally got up, showered, got dressed, packed up the car, woke up the lady at the front desk, and left for Orlando. At around 7am, I sent a text to Mean Queen to the effect of "In Orlando". I didn't want to wake her up, but I knew she would have been thinking about me and whether or not I was going to call her, telling her I was having trouble.

Either way, I got on to Disney Property at about 7:45 am, and went to check in. I knew my room wouldn't be ready, so I just wanted to maybe go to Epcot that morning. I went to the online checkin line, because the regular line was not open, and was honestly checked in quicker than I was for online checkin in June at POR. I then heard the best words a castmember could tell me at theat time, "You are in room 1321."

Now, they don't tell you your room number unless it is already ready. I think that with all of the concerns I had in the past, not being able to see my reservation online and all, they were trying to help me out. I'm glad my room was ready.

I asked for a parking lot view room in buildings 1 or 7. I got a parking lot view in building 1 on the 3rd floor.

My room number :

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0080.jpg

I got my stuff inthe room and texted Mean Queen to tell her that the room was ready, I was there, and I was going to breakfast and then to Epcot.

I walked around the grounds for a bit. . .

This was the view from about 10 steps outside my door--I was close to the corner of the building.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0004.jpg

And pictures of the grounds. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0065.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0067.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0070.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0073.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0168.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0169.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0174.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0178.jpg

Then, I got breakfast at Sassagoula Floatworks. Here's the catcher here.

I'm scared of clowns.

Deathly.

Scared.

of

CLOWNS.

I mean, I can't look at them without a panic attack. And the court jesters at the food court at POFQ? Well, they look like clowns. I got my refillable mug and cheese danish, daring myself NOT to look up.

And then went and sat outside to eat. :rolleyes1

And then I jumped in the car instead of riding the bus and started driving. The next thing I knew, I was getting on this:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0059.jpg

Now, you might ask, "Why did Amanda drive to the Ticket and Transportation Center to take a monorail to Epcot?"

The answer is simple. . .I did not drive there to go to Epcot. In a last second decision, I predicted myself that there would be less crowds at MK due to the party that night. I was right. Next thenk I knew, I was here. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0056.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0010.jpg

The Christmas tree at MK:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0007.jpg

So, where did I go first? Only time will tell. . .

LegoMom3

12-29-2009, 12:31 PM

scdvcwannabe

12-29-2009, 02:00 PM

Wow! You beat us there. We didn't arrive until 2ish and then went to DTD. I wish that we had gotten an earlier start. The weather was so much bettter on Thursday. We went to MK in the rain on Friday and again with the crowds on Saturday. I can't wait to read your report!

hucifer

12-29-2009, 02:20 PM

Hi Amanda. I enjoy reading solo reports, so I'm in. I also stayed at the POFQ when I did the solo thing in July. I LOVED it there...it was soooooooo quiet and pretty!

Looking forward to the rest of it. :thumbsup2

hucifer

12-29-2009, 02:22 PM

Subscribing! I've been by myself before and I got many of the same questions :) I'm going by myself Spring 2010 and staying in Port Orleans French Quarter!

Apparently POFQ is THE resort to stay in when going solo. Have you been there before? It's a beautiful resort.

TinkerbellLuvr7

12-29-2009, 03:11 PM

yay!!! I'm glad you made it home :) I agree, it's nice having WDW to yourself but there is always a part of me that feels like man this is weird eating alone and riding alone but then I get over it lol. When I used to work at WDW and my parents would come to visit or friends, I would always get to the resort before them and typically use the food court prior to their arrival and I would always sit there and families would look at me funny like why is she alone, where are her people...soon enough they always came lol.

I love POFQ, it was the first resort I ever stayed at when I was young (7). We stayed there 3 or 4 times before we discovered WL and there is no turning back of course. I stayed there last year (weekend before the closing of PI in DTD) with WDW roomies and we were in building 3 1st floor. We booked a standard room but were 4 doors from the lobby/food and looking at the ent. of the pool so I would consider that one an upgrade lol.

Can't wait for more!

creativeamanda

12-29-2009, 03:31 PM

Wow, the MK is GORGEOUS!! I watched a special on HGTV the other week about how they decorate the World for the holidays. A.Maz.Ing.

I'm proud of you with the food court!...nothing wrong with eating outside, enjoying the nice weather and all....;).

.

I absolutely loved the way MK was decorated. So much so, that while when I arrived I was definitely not in the Christmas spirit, by the time I left I was back in the groove and mood for it.

Let me tell you, I have become suddenly quite tolerant of clowns. I still can't look at Pennywise, but the clowns at POFQ helped a bit.

Wow! You beat us there. We didn't arrive until 2ish and then went to DTD. I wish that we had gotten an earlier start. The weather was so much bettter on Thursday. We went to MK in the rain on Friday and again with the crowds on Saturday. I can't wait to read your report!

It was rainy on Friday--I slept in that day and went to DTD to shop then to MK for the party after the rain had stopped.

Hi Amanda. I enjoy reading solo reports, so I'm in. I also stayed at the POFQ when I did the solo thing in July. I LOVED it there...it was soooooooo quiet and pretty!

Looking forward to the rest of it. :thumbsup2

It is very quiet there--I loved it!

Apparently POFQ is THE resort to stay in when going solo. Have you been there before? It's a beautiful resort.

No, I had not. I had only been to POR, and there is a similar, yet different feeling at POFQ.

yay!!! I'm glad you made it home :) I agree, it's nice having WDW to yourself but there is always a part of me that feels like man this is weird eating alone and riding alone but then I get over it lol. When I used to work at WDW and my parents would come to visit or friends, I would always get to the resort before them and typically use the food court prior to their arrival and I would always sit there and families would look at me funny like why is she alone, where are her people...soon enough they always came lol.

I love POFQ, it was the first resort I ever stayed at when I was young (7). We stayed there 3 or 4 times before we discovered WL and there is no turning back of course. I stayed there last year (weekend before the closing of PI in DTD) with WDW roomies and we were in building 3 1st floor. We booked a standard room but were 4 doors from the lobby/food and looking at the ent. of the pool so I would consider that one an upgrade lol.

Can't wait for more!

That was certainly an upgrade! :)

I do love it there.

kamikazecat

12-29-2009, 03:56 PM

I am joining in as well. I am jealous of your solo trip. I hope for a few hours of me time on my next trip :lmao:

A-Jay

12-29-2009, 07:55 PM

I'm in as well.....Going on my first solo in a few short weeks. A bit nervous about it, but I have been reading about the wonderful time others have had on there solo trips. Can't wait to read more.

eandesmom

12-30-2009, 12:52 AM

Hey Amanda!

Looking forward to your report, glad you made it safe and sound though your 2am wakeup certainly beat your estimate of 4:15! Very happy your room was ready, that makes all the difference in getting settled right away, at least for me!

creativeamanda

12-30-2009, 07:24 AM

I am joining in as well. I am jealous of your solo trip. I hope for a few hours of me time on my next trip :lmao:

:welcome: My next trip is with everyone and I can honestly say this time coming up, I have no desire for a whole bunch of me time. I think I got that in quite nicely.

I'm in as well.....Going on my first solo in a few short weeks. A bit nervous about it, but I have been reading about the wonderful time others have had on there solo trips. Can't wait to read more.

:welcome: You will love it. You have to realize people are going to wonder why you are by yourself, but the castmembers are awesome! I also met some great people waiting in lines and such and know I never would have met them had I been with the kids.

Hey Amanda!

Looking forward to your report, glad you made it safe and sound though your 2am wakeup certainly beat your estimate of 4:15! Very happy your room was ready, that makes all the difference in getting settled right away, at least for me!

I know--I just couldn't sleep! I wonder why. :rolleyes1

let'sgo

12-30-2009, 08:11 AM

I can't wait to read more. This sounds like it was such a nice trip for you. I'd love to go solo sometime. I'm in!

creativeamanda

12-30-2009, 10:00 AM

I can't wait to read more. This sounds like it was such a nice trip for you. I'd love to go solo sometime. I'm in!

:welcome: I really enjoyed myself! Changing my mind split second and not having to clear it with anyone was the best!

creativeamanda

12-30-2009, 10:17 AM

Let me share a secret with allof you. You all know about my irrational fear of clowns. I have another irrational fear--falling. Yes. I am afraid of falling. Big time. So much so that for years, I would never ride a roller coaster. I remember dh and I getting on a roller coaster at Carowinds and him screaming curse words every five minutes. It was funny now that I look back, but then, I decided I did not like roller coasters.

So, it may surprise many of you that my first stop was this:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0062.jpg

Yes--Space Mountain. After taking on Barnstormer, Splash, BTMRR, and Everest, I thought, this will be a breeze.

I was right! My first fastpass retrieval for the trip was after this ride. Now, by now it was 10am, and there was only a 20 min wait for Space Mountain. Remember that. It will come into play later in the trip.

After that, I decided to ride my favorite MK rides before lunch back at the resort. Of course, one of the favorites was . . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0049.jpg

And from Peter Pan's Flight, I took a picture of the old loading area for the Skyway. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0026.jpg

Which lead me to this musing. . .in life there are lots and lots of things we miss out on because of time, that can only be experienced later in pictures. The Skyway is an example. Thinking of riding above the Magic Kingdom and taking pictures from that vantage point makes me wistful for doing that. Unfortunately, we will only be able to experience it now in pictures.

One may wonder why my trip reports are almost always 90% pictures and less words. I find the pictures to be more than enough of the story from time to time. In this case, the Skyway. Oh how many stories this picture tells to many who just happen upon the picture. Memories of years gone by. Now it just sits there, with no purpose, except to remind us of the past. And give hope for a future.

TarzansKat

12-30-2009, 11:37 AM

LegoMom3

12-30-2009, 11:51 AM

Well you are a braver woman than I! I can honestly say that Space Mt. is not on my list of to-do's for my solo trip... I rode it once. When I was [much] younger. I think it's my own irrational fear of whipping around on a roller coaster in the dark. Normally I will size up a coaster by watching it, then determine if I want to ride it. Can't do that here! And yet, I rode Everest sight-unseen. :confused3 (and LOVED it, by the way!!!):rotfl:

Bring on the pictures!!!!!!!

Did you happen to see the thread recently on the old River Country?...it was posted in that update feed at the top of the main DIS page. So. Sad. DH and I went there on our first trip to Disney together back in '96. Now it's decaying and succumbing to the elements, living now only in pictures and our memories...*sigh*

.

creativeamanda

12-30-2009, 12:00 PM

I'm here! :goodvibes

I love that you have lots of pictures in your trip reports, because it's so much fun to see everything from someone else's perspective! You're bringing back some fond memories of the holidays at Disney, and I love your remembering the Skyway. :thumbsup2

:goodvibes Ah, thanks, TK (and bean). I wish I could have seen it in its hey-day. But there will be things my kids see pictures of and say, "Remember when. . ."

Well you are a braver woman than I! I can honestly say that Space Mt. is not on my list of to-do's for my solo trip... I rode it once. When I was [much] younger. I think it's my own irrational fear of whipping around on a roller coaster in the dark. Normally I will size up a coaster by watching it, then determine if I want to ride it. Can't do that here! And yet, I rode Everest sight-unseen. :confused3 (and LOVED it, by the way!!!):rotfl:

I love Everest, too! I did find SM to be quite the jerky little ride, btw. My neck will never be the same.

Bring on the pictures!!!!!!!

Did you happen to see the thread recently on the old River Country?...it was posted in that update feed at the top of the main DIS page. So. Sad. DH and I went there on our first trip to Disney together back in '96. Now it's decaying and succumbing to the elements, living now only in pictures and our memories...*sigh*

.

I saw the RC thread and am subscribed to it. I think eventually Disneyw ill do something with the area, but I think they think it would be a bad idea given the current economy. Then again, I'd like to see the other section POP finished. If they did family suites over there, I'd be sooo over that one!

hucifer

12-30-2009, 01:11 PM

KatMark

12-30-2009, 01:55 PM

Great update.

I'm like you...not a big fan of clowns at all (the main reason we won't stay at the Boardwalk); and I love the picture of the Skyway...I really miss seeing that go across the sky (although I didn't really enjoy riding it).

disneyshakeygirl

12-30-2009, 04:30 PM

I've never been on Space Mountain, although I've been to WDW many times. I just never got the chance to go on because the people with me would never go on. When I went by myself, it was being refurbished but when I next go, there will be no excuse whatsoever!

Seewhatimesdone

01-01-2010, 03:00 PM

Great start! Can't wait to hear more. Maybe someday i'll take a solo trip. You are a brave soul!

ancestry

01-01-2010, 03:19 PM

Subscribing!

I'm looking forward to hearing about your solo trip. I have traveled quite a bit in Europe without DH and the kids but haven't traveled solo much in the US or to Disney, but I would like to at some point.

creativeamanda

01-01-2010, 04:02 PM

Your clowno-phobia...does that mean you avoid Spectromagic?

Anyway, I went in July when SM was closed and I was VERY bummed out that I couldn't ride. I love all things coaster, myself.

I think it's odd that they kept the old Skyway buildings in Fantasyland and Tomorrowland vacant for so long. It's kind of eery to me. It's like...DO something with these things already. Speaking of which...I heard from a CM that they are reforming the Tomorrowland Skyway building into something. Not sure how accurate that info was, but that's what I was told.

I don't avoid Spectro, but I don't like the clown. I also don't really like It's A Small World because of the clowns in the hot air balloons. But I will ride it and not look up. :rotfl:

If you look at the map of the new Fantasyland, it looks like the Skyway building is not even there, but since it doesn't really include Pinocchio's Village Haus, IASW, or Peter Pan, you can't really tell. It seems that in that big refurb, we'll lose that building somehow.

Great update.

I'm like you...not a big fan of clowns at all (the main reason we won't stay at the Boardwalk); and I love the picture of the Skyway...I really miss seeing that go across the sky (although I didn't really enjoy riding it).

LOL--seeing as I don't like heights all that much, either, I can relate. Some of the pictures of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea taken from the Skyway are awesome, though.

I've never been on Space Mountain, although I've been to WDW many times. I just never got the chance to go on because the people with me would never go on. When I went by myself, it was being refurbished but when I next go, there will be no excuse whatsoever!

Space Mountain is a must-do. (LOL, do I sound like Stacy?)

Great start! Can't wait to hear more. Maybe someday i'll take a solo trip. You are a brave soul!

Hey, Anna! You can totally do it! You really should sometime. If you do it off season, I'll bet Shay can spare a day trip down.

Subscribing!

I'm looking forward to hearing about your solo trip. I have traveled quite a bit in Europe without DH and the kids but haven't traveled solo much in the US or to Disney, but I would like to at some point.

:welcome: I think traveling solo can be awesome! No one to answer to, and you can make split second decisions without clearing it with the party. That's one thing I'm going to miss in July. . .

stopher1

01-01-2010, 09:11 PM

Ghosthost999

01-01-2010, 10:08 PM

Ohhh, a solo trip report. I love those. I am definitely subscribing. :) I would love to do one myself some day.

eandesmom

01-02-2010, 11:58 AM

Ah the skyway!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Very fond memories.

I miss it.

Nancy for Disney

01-02-2010, 01:54 PM

Great start to your tr. I am always so impressed with people willing to go solo. I almost ended up solo with our dec trip as we had issues with who was going to watch the kids on our "no kids trip". At first I didn't think I would mind but as we got closer I knew I really wanted to share the experience with someone. Some day I will be ready for a solo trip.

I love space mountain but hate astro oribitor. I feel like I am going to fall right out of there. I don't like heights but love roller coasters. :confused3 Space mountain is my all time favorite.

Can't wait to read more.

creativeamanda

01-02-2010, 07:34 PM

Way to go Amanda! I love going with my family, but I love going SOLO! I really enjoy the spontenaity of it all. I think it's very cool that you switched your plan from Epcot to the Magic Kingdom. Very cool.

I also love TR's with pictures! Thanks for yours so far. I've enjoyed what you've posted so far, sounds like a some good fun so far. I'm looking forward to more - especially since we leave for our next trip in just a little more than 10 days.

Thanks for joining in and I have really gotten to enjoy a solo trip. Although next trip, I don't think I'd be gone for such a long time.

Ohhh, a solo trip report. I love those. I am definitely subscribing. :) I would love to do one myself some day.

You should try it--I had so much fun!

Ah the skyway!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Very fond memories.

I miss it.

I wish I could have seen it.

Great start to your tr. I am always so impressed with people willing to go solo. I almost ended up solo with our dec trip as we had issues with who was going to watch the kids on our "no kids trip". At first I didn't think I would mind but as we got closer I knew I really wanted to share the experience with someone. Some day I will be ready for a solo trip.

I love space mountain but hate astro oribitor. I feel like I am going to fall right out of there. I don't like heights but love roller coasters. :confused3 Space mountain is my all time favorite.

Can't wait to read more.

I think dh and I would go alone if there was someone to watch the kids, but alas, who really wants to take care of three kids while a couple is gone for a week-long or even weekend trip. I think I'll have to wait until my oldest is 14 or 15--which won't be too long.

creativeamanda

01-02-2010, 07:48 PM

So when I last left you all, I was leaving the Magic Kingdom. Ahh, what a wonderful place, which holds a dear place in my heart. A major thing that my sister-in-law did for us was make the Magic Kingdom our first ever Disney stop. Because of that, it will forever hold a mystique that I can never quite get enough of.

One last look before I leave. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0050.jpg

So, I returned to the resort and took a short nap after lunch in the food court. After all, I had been up since 3am!

I then got up and went to Hollywood Studios. My first ride there. . .The Tower of Terror.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0019.jpg

Now, let me preface by saying, I'd never ridden it before. I learned two lessons that day:

1. People who have a fear of heights probably should not ride the ride. Especially if you have another irrational fear of falling in an elevator.

2. 21ish year old girls should not get intoxicated and then attempt to ride this ride.

I've said it.

And I "judged them."

Let me back up a bit. I decided that I would try the TOT. As I was walking up the path to it, I was almost bowled over by two young ladies who were laughing and apparently having a good time. I did not think much of it. I made my way to the line and there they were--both of them--laughing and giggling girls. With a strong odor over them.

They decided to pick on this I'd say 12-year-old boy and his older brother.

"You're judging us."

"Why are you looking at us?"

It was like, my gosh, can't you smell yourself?

At some point the lines divided. The giggly girls and the poor young men were in the same line. I was in a different one.

Poor guys.

As we got farther in I heard people say, "Those two are gonna hurl" and "I'm glad I'm not in the room with them."

Apparently, the guys thought the same thing, because they actually asked the cast members to move them to another location. Thank goodness. That's them, right beside me. The older has a lime green shirt on (good taste.) It looks like I'm trying to hold his hand.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0021.jpg

In the front.

Poor guy--I'm sorry I kept grabbing your pants leg, by the way. I was scared beyond belief.

And by the way--I'm sure I was better company. After all, even they said they were going to hurl.

Coming up. . .the Osborne Lights.

TinkerbellLuvr7

01-02-2010, 08:13 PM

stopher1

01-02-2010, 09:15 PM

I learned two lessons that day:

1. People who have a fear of heights probably should not ride the ride. Especially if you have another irrational fear of falling in an elevator.

2. 21ish year old girls should not get intoxicated and then attempt to ride this ride.

As we got farther in I heard people say, "Those two are gonna hurl" and "I'm glad I'm not in the room with them."

Poor guy--I'm sorry I kept grabbing your pants leg, but the way. I was scared beyond belief.

And by the way--I'm sure I was better company. After all, even they said they were going to hurl.

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl2: Oh my. Sounds like quite the adventure!

praisehisname

01-02-2010, 09:25 PM

Jumping on board and loving it!

Seewhatimesdone

01-02-2010, 10:31 PM

Lol at grabbing the guys leg. I've had that happen so many times! I can't imagine riding TOT drunk. Way to ruin the experience for everyone else. Sheesh

TarzansKat

01-03-2010, 09:09 AM

:rotfl2: I can't believe you near molested someone on the TOT. I mean that in the nicest possible way. I have to share with you, one of my favorite times on that ride was with my sister's ex-husband. (They were still married at the time.) He really wanted someone to go one with him, and this was back before the craziness of how they drop you today with multiple fake outs. So, I finally "manned" up and said I would do it.

I bought the picture, it was that funny. He is CLINGING to me. When the ride was over, he looked at me and said, "I didn't know you could scream like that." :lmao:

So glad you didn't end up with the drunk ladies. That could have been extremely messy.

linnell

01-03-2010, 10:12 AM

I'm in! I would love to do a solo trip, though I got the next best thing this past October - I went with a friend who goes all the time and just let me lead the way. The only time she interjected is if she needed to use the facilities or spotted are a really short line on our way to something else.

And I've never ridden TOT because I have a fear of falling too!

tinkgurl

01-03-2010, 01:07 PM

Okay, I'm here! Got some catching up to do! :surfweb:

hucifer

01-03-2010, 01:08 PM

People who have a fear of heights probably should not ride the ride. Especially if you have another irrational fear of falling in an elevator.
More fears? Oh Amanda, you poor thing, I cannot believe you braved ToT. It's funny...I have the same fear of falling elevators. And it's so bad that I have dreams about falling in elevators all the time. And yet I love ToT. Go figure.

So...did you like it after all?

I bought the picture, it was that funny. He is CLINGING to me. When the ride was over, he looked at me and said, "I didn't know you could scream like that."
Ooh...you gotta post that sucker.

eandesmom

01-03-2010, 01:23 PM

creativeamanda

01-03-2010, 01:24 PM

omg how crazy is that?! Can you imagine if they were on RnR?!!!!!!

I'm glad you were brave and rode TOT. It is by far my fav ride. My one roomie in FL and I would go there on our days off just to ride that ride. At one point we got to know the CMs very well and they would "back door" us on the ride. One time we rode it 11 times in an hour because of them lol. And then we 'd go to Steak n' Shake and talk about our day haha. It is an awesome ride!!

My fave is still Expedition Everest, which I fully intend to get my husband on in June, lol. That was cool, getting to ride that much, but I'm glad you went to the Steak n' Shake after the ride, not before. :upsidedow

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl2: Oh my. Sounds like quite the adventure!

It was.

Jumping on board and loving it!

:welcome: So glad you are here!

Lol at grabbing the guys leg. I've had that happen so many times! I can't imagine riding TOT drunk. Way to ruin the experience for everyone else. Sheesh

It was concerning then, but now I think of it as just plain-out funny.

:rotfl2: I can't believe you near molested someone on the TOT. I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Way to put it, TK!

I have to share with you, one of my favorite times on that ride was with my sister's ex-husband. (They were still married at the time.) He really wanted someone to go one with him, and this was back before the craziness of how they drop you today with multiple fake outs. So, I finally "manned" up and said I would do it.

I bought the picture, it was that funny. He is CLINGING to me. When the ride was over, he looked at me and said, "I didn't know you could scream like that." :lmao:

That is too funny. :rotfl2: I gotta see that pic.

I'm in! I would love to do a solo trip, though I got the next best thing this past October - I went with a friend who goes all the time and just let me lead the way. The only time she interjected is if she needed to use the facilities or spotted are a really short line on our way to something else.

And I've never ridden TOT because I have a fear of falling too!

TOT is not that bad, really. The first ride, to me, is always the worst. Not knowing is tough. After you know what's going to happen, it's all better.

Sounds like a great trip in October--I love that time of year in Disney! :love:

Okay, I'm here! Got some catching up to do! :surfweb:

You sure do, young lady! :rotfl2: Take your time, take your time!

More fears? Oh Amanda, you poor thing, I cannot believe you braved ToT. It's funny...I have the same fear of falling elevators. And it's so bad that I have dreams about falling in elevators all the time. And yet I love ToT. Go figure.

So...did you like it after all?

That's really my last fear (except spiders and snakes, but they really could kill you, unlike clowns and heights). I did like TOT and can't wait for my girls to ride it. They will love it!

Ooh...you gotta post that sucker.

Yeah, she does. Don't worry, TK. We would not recognize you without the Mickey head in front of your face, anywho.

creativeamanda

01-03-2010, 01:27 PM

I think my favorite part is the guys requesting not to be near the drunk girls!

So glad you were spared! VERY funny about grabbing the guys pant leg. Good for you for going on it! I can relate to TK's post, I had to "man up" for my 8 year old!!! No one else would go.

I told them when I got in line behind them, "I was so worried you'd end up with them." The oldest was like--"Yeah, we told the castmember to put us somewhere else." I was proud of them. After all, they were just babies.

Or at least they were in my eyes.

I knew I was doing it, and I kept trying to stop only to grab it again. :rotfl2:

dapoteete

01-03-2010, 01:57 PM

TarzansKat

01-04-2010, 08:04 AM

Ooh...you gotta post that sucker.

First I have to find it. :lmao:

tinkgurl

01-04-2010, 10:08 AM

Ahh I love ToT. It's always fun riding with newbies. They always start screaming right when the doors shut as we start going up. :lmao: My favorite newbie was a boy who was riding with his family. As soon as we started dropping, he started screaming loud and like a girl! Sis, Fiance, and I were laughing so hard we were crying.

hucifer

01-04-2010, 11:00 AM

First I have to find it. :lmao:

We'll wait. :hyper:

raider97

01-04-2010, 03:25 PM

Enjoying your trip report! How did you like French Quarter compared to your home of Port Orleans Riverside? We thought French Quarter was so pretty. It had a unique feel to it. DH mentioned staying there sometime, but I know I couldn't spend the extra for an extra room for the family. I would just be thinking the whole time about how much longer I could have stayed at Riverside. :lmao: Even though, we are considering staying offsite at a condo in WH next time. I know a sin!! I am so jealous of your new ticker! I wish we were going back so soon!

Two firsts already (SM and TOT) and you are making great headway on your clown fears! So much already done! I loved your story about TOT. Too funny that you knew you were grabbing his leg, but just couldn't help it. :rotfl: I bet he would take your leg grabbing over the puke that was sure to have happened on the other side. I missed out of TOT this trip. Next time for sure thought, I love that ride even though it makes my heart stop every time!

Stephanie

jenjolt

01-06-2010, 02:40 PM

Woot!! Found your TR and your Food Report today and I'm loving both!!! Can't wait to read more about your solo adventures! I too have gone to Disney Solo and I LOVED IT!!!! I also enjoy going with my girlfriends which is a great way to tour too!!!!

Robert P

01-08-2010, 07:25 PM

A solo trip, and a Skyway reference. I'm In!!

creativeamanda

01-09-2010, 09:37 AM

I bet it does take some adjusting to not being able to share as you go with the family. My first trip with only my daughter was hard at first, but then we really got into it. I think I will have to do a solo trip and brave the initial loneliness. It looks like taking lots of pictures helps.

It sure does--I think I really broke in my DSLR that week!

First I have to find it. :lmao:

We'll wait.

Ahh I love ToT. It's always fun riding with newbies. They always start screaming right when the doors shut as we start going up. :lmao: My favorite newbie was a boy who was riding with his family. As soon as we started dropping, he started screaming loud and like a girl! Sis, Fiance, and I were laughing so hard we were crying.

OMH, that is too hilarious!

We'll wait. :hyper:

And we're still waiting. popcorn:::rolleyes1

Enjoying your trip report! How did you like French Quarter compared to your home of Port Orleans Riverside? We thought French Quarter was so pretty. It had a unique feel to it. DH mentioned staying there sometime, but I know I couldn't spend the extra for an extra room for the family. I would just be thinking the whole time about how much longer I could have stayed at Riverside. :lmao: Even though, we are considering staying offsite at a condo in WH next time. I know a sin!! I am so jealous of your new ticker! I wish we were going back so soon!

Two firsts already (SM and TOT) and you are making great headway on your clown fears! So much already done! I loved your story about TOT. Too funny that you knew you were grabbing his leg, but just couldn't help it. :rotfl: I bet he would take your leg grabbing over the puke that was sure to have happened on the other side. I missed out of TOT this trip. Next time for sure thought, I love that ride even though it makes my heart stop every time!

Stephanie

I liked POFQ, but I won't stay there again. I honestly missed POR, and I think now Disney for me is synonymous with POR. There was nothing wrong with it, but I spent some time my last morning at POR, and I found a link I had been missing all week. It's hard to describe, but I'll try to when I get to that installment.

I know--it is tooo funny about that poor guy. I feel so bad, but I am certain that was better for him than what it could have been!

Woot!! Found your TR and your Food Report today and I'm loving both!!! Can't wait to read more about your solo adventures! I too have gone to Disney Solo and I LOVED IT!!!! I also enjoy going with my girlfriends which is a great way to tour too!!!!

I am planning a trip maybe next spring break with just my oldest daughter and myself. It all depends on next school year's calendars.

Oh, and :welcome:

A solo trip, and a Skyway reference. I'm In!!

:welcome: Hope you can stick around!

creativeamanda

01-09-2010, 09:54 AM

So, as I left Tower of Terror, and took my "redneck photograph", I decided to see how the lines were at Rock n Roller Coaster. Well, the standby line was at 90 min, the single rider line was all the way out in the open, and there were no fastpasses. I decided to wait for rope drop. I remember walking by Toy Story Mania and thinking, "No Way", but I can't for the life of me remember why. I did go into the cue at the Magic of Disney animation and found the information there extremely interesting, such as the models of the main icons especially this one:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0031.jpg

I'm a huge history buff, so seeing these was really interestng!

Of course, since I just left it:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0035.jpg

I did not stay for the movie, but I went on to Lights, Motor, Action.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0041.jpg

It must have been near 4:15, because that was the showtime and the show started right after I sat down.

But not for long.

As soon as Herbie "split", I hear the familiar strains of "Whose the leader of the club that's made for you and me?"

My daughter. She was calling me.

I couldn't hear in the show, so I left while I was talking to her.

"Mama, when are you coming home? I miss you."
"Christmas eve"
"Mama, can I come to Florida?"
"Some other time, baby."
"Mama, I miss you"
"I miss you too, Sweetie."
"Where are you?"
"I'm walking to Star Tours."
"I'll call you later"

:sad1:

Okay, as I pick myself back up, I did go to Star Tours, and by the time I got off, it was almost time for the Osborne lights.

Those things are awesome! It was raining, so there was never snow that night, and they only did the show once at the beginning, but the lights were simply beautiful!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0070.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0073.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0074.jpg

THose give you some idea how crowded it was!

And here's me at the Osborne lights that night. And yes, that is a LGMH you see.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0069.jpg

I left right after this to go over to the Yacht Club ( was driving) for dinner at
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0077.jpg

Many of you have read my not so glowing report of the Yachtsman, and it remains even more so now, as I have spoken to more people about it and realized I did not even get an apology for having to wait so long--45 min past my ADR time.

All I know was, I did not enjoy my meal, was tired, my back was killing me, and I collapsed into bed that night. And a ropedrop planned for the next morning was nixed.

Coming up. . .I came to SHOP!

praisehisname

01-09-2010, 10:10 AM

"Mama, when are you coming home? I miss you."
"Christmas eve"
"Mama, can I come to Florida?"
"Some other time, baby."
"Mama, I miss you"
"I miss you too, Sweetie."
"Where are you?"
"I'm walking to Star Tours."
"I'll call you later"

Aw, so sweet! :lovestruc Looking forward to more!

TarzansKat

01-09-2010, 12:47 PM

I had a phone call like that on my solo trip with Tink. Nearly broke my heart. :sad1:

I'm glad you got to enjoy the Osbourne Lights. I think that was my favorite experience from going in December. Everyone in my party loved it equally and we were awed by how beautiful it all is. :goodvibes

creativeamanda

01-09-2010, 08:09 PM

Aw, so sweet! :lovestruc Looking forward to more!

I know--she has to be honestly the sweetest child I know.

I'm not saying that because she is my daughter. You'd have to meet her to see what I mean.

I had a phone call like that on my solo trip with Tink. Nearly broke my heart. :sad1:

I'm glad you got to enjoy the Osbourne Lights. I think that was my favorite experience from going in December. Everyone in my party loved it equally and we were awed by how beautiful it all is. :goodvibes

I loved the lights. And I know about the call. About 45 min later, she did call me again, because she was worried she upset me and I wouldn't enjoy my trip because I knew she missed me. As I said before, she is a sweet person.

disneyshakeygirl

01-09-2010, 09:11 PM

Your daughter phoning was so sweet! Can't wait for more!

ladybugmom

01-10-2010, 12:19 AM

Hi Amanda!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a December trip to WDW this year!! I cannot WAIT to read more!!! :goodvibes

TarzansKat

01-10-2010, 06:05 AM

I loved the lights. And I know about the call. About 45 min later, she did call me again, because she was worried she upset me and I wouldn't enjoy my trip because I knew she missed me. As I said before, she is a sweet person.

Oh, that is so sweet! She didn't want you to feel badly. What a good kid, huh? :goodvibes

LegoMom3

01-10-2010, 07:52 AM

Fantastic! Love the lights.... Are the models at MoDA new?? I don't remember seeing those. They're beautiful!

The phone call would have melted me into a puddle.....:sad2: Too. Sweet.

Keep it comin'!!:thumbsup2

.

Nancy for Disney

01-10-2010, 08:59 AM

Great update. I love the food part of the trips. I know you didn't like the wait at Yachtsman and I don't blame you. Was the food that bad? If so,what did you get and what didn't you like about it?

hucifer

01-11-2010, 06:46 AM

The lights are so pretty in your pics. The closest I've ever come to seeing them in person is going in October and seeing them stringing up the lights. I bet I would love them.

Your daughter sounds like a sweetie! :)

TinkerbellLuvr7

01-11-2010, 04:52 PM

nice update!!!! Man, that phone call could have killed me :( Can't wait for more!!

stopher1

01-16-2010, 06:28 AM

Awesome stuff Amanda! I've enjoyed reading it.

In case you are curious yourself, here's a link to my own live TR, as we are at the world right now. stopher1's LIVE Triple Whammy Report (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2369934) Just thought I'd share.

creativeamanda

01-16-2010, 05:52 PM

Your daughter phoning was so sweet! Can't wait for more!

I know.

Hi Amanda!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a December trip to WDW this year!! I cannot WAIT to read more!!! :goodvibes

December is a great time to go--even if you have to go during the crowded times like I did because of schools being out.

Oh, that is so sweet! She didn't want you to feel badly. What a good kid, huh? :goodvibes

She is a good kid--her nickname is Sweetie for good reason!

Fantastic! Love the lights.... Are the models at MoDA new?? I don't remember seeing those. They're beautiful!

The phone call would have melted me into a puddle.....:sad2: Too. Sweet.

Keep it comin'!!:thumbsup2

.

I've never been in MoDA before, so I don't know. Those lights were wonderful and this is when I really started to love my camera.

Great update. I love the food part of the trips. I know you didn't like the wait at Yachtsman and I don't blame you. Was the food that bad? If so,what did you get and what didn't you like about it?

My problem was my filet was cooked well done. I ordered medium. It would have been fine had it been cooked properly. I've been told I should have sent it back. . .Not at 10pm! I was ready for bed.

The lights are so pretty in your pics. The closest I've ever come to seeing them in person is going in October and seeing them stringing up the lights. I bet I would love them.

Your daughter sounds like a sweetie! :)

She is a Sweetie--I actually came back for the lights later in the week I loved them so much!

nice update!!!! Man, that phone call could have killed me :( Can't wait for more!!

Coming up!

Awesome stuff Amanda! I've enjoyed reading it.

In case you are curious yourself, here's a link to my own live TR, as we are at the world right now. stopher1's LIVE Triple Whammy Report (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2369934) Just thought I'd share.

I'll head over after I do update.

creativeamanda

01-16-2010, 05:59 PM

It seems odd that it's what? Almost been a month since I was there and I'm on my first day. At this rate, I won't be finished with my TR before my next trip. Perhaps it's all too fitting that before I go to the next day, I would get the photopass pictures in the mail.

And, scdvcwannabe, if you are looking, you get to see some of the first pictures.

As I am going into Magic Kingdom, I stopped a free photopass photographer.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0093.jpg

I'm wearing shorts--it was so warm that day.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0098.jpg

I caught Tinkerbell. Wish I had kept in my pocket--I could have used some Pixie Dust this week.

Osborne Lights:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0251.jpg

Just before I leave Hollywood Studios

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0255.jpg

creativeamanda

01-16-2010, 06:14 PM

Apparently, I don't know how to sleep in. The next morning I got up at like 7:00am. I was so excited because I knew I was going shopping!

First thngs first, though--I got ready and walked over to the food court and wiated in line for one of the most delectable treats available on DIsney property.

I'm talking about beignets.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0087.jpg

It would be unkind at this conjecture to tell me the number of calories in those pieces of heaven. I still loved them and would have a million of them if I could!

Having learned my lesson about trying to find a parking space in Downtown Disney last summer, I took the heavenly boat over there for shopping.

My building from the boat:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0089.jpg

Getting closer. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0092.jpg

Now, this is not a short ride and I don't want to fool anyone into thinking it is, however, it certainly beats driving around the parking lot for a half hour to only have to walk from Pleasure Island area to the Marketplace. Just sayin'. This is one of the best things about being at Port Orleans resorts over the other mods at Disney. And one of the reasons why Port Orleans is my area of choice first.

Anyway, I got off the boat, and went first to Goofy's candy company to spend some snack credits on lollipops and candy bars Santa Claus was going to bring to the kids. Then, it was on to my personal favorite store:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0098.jpg

World of Disney. Outside, some high schools were performing Christmas music and it was just wonderful. This is one of the things about Disney I love: they give children of all ages the opportunity to perform, even if only briefly. I am sure it is a great honor for the kids. I would have loved the chance in high school.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0097.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0096.jpg

After I unloaded some hard-earned cash at WOD, I went onto the LegoStore.

I love this place! And the major reason is the Lego Sculptures in there.

My son says when he grows up, this is what he is going to do for a living. He says he's going to be an architect, but a Lego architect.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0100.jpg

So, after I unloaded some money, I took the boat ride back over to POFQ to get ready for lunch at the Grand Floridian Cafe.

Who did I see when I got back? Well, Juana, my awesome mousekeeper who was with me the entire week and was better than anyone could ever imagine, left me these:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0111.jpg

Coming up. . .the smell of Gingerbread in the Air!

TarzansKat

01-16-2010, 07:47 PM

I know this is totally random, but the shirt you're wearing in the DHS photos is super cute!

Beignets. NOM. You know vacation calories don't count, right? It's Disney magic. Plus, you walked it all off. :thumbsup2

I love that your WOD shot is straight into the door with the Pirate merchandise. I feel like I should be thanking you. :lmao:

LegoMom3

01-16-2010, 08:23 PM

creativeamanda

01-16-2010, 09:50 PM

I know this is totally random, but the shirt you're wearing in the DHS photos is super cute!

Why thank you. It's one of my work shirts. Note I was dressed nicer because I had dinner at the Yachtsman that night.

Beignets. NOM. You know vacation calories don't count, right? It's Disney magic. Plus, you walked it all off. :thumbsup2

I really only came back weighing about 5 pounds more. That's not that bad, considering the calories I took in.

I love that your WOD shot is straight into the door with the Pirate merchandise. I feel like I should be thanking you. :lmao:

I didn't notice that, but I'm glad I can provide you with your pirate fix. pirate:

Only YOU would notice that.....!:rolleyes:

:rotfl:

Great update amanda!! LOVE the PhotoPass pics! Did you pre-order the CD?

.

.

I went into a share. I didn't get the code for prepurchase, but had to call photopass and get them to send me a code. We can't prepurchase anymore unless photopass sends us a code. Ridiculous, IMO, but that's the way it is.

ladybugmom

01-16-2010, 10:25 PM

What great PP pics!! :goodvibes And those beignets--YUM!!

TinkerbellLuvr7

01-17-2010, 10:11 AM

nice pics!!!!!! Gotta love those mousekeepers!!!!!

raider97

01-17-2010, 05:17 PM

Love the photopass pictures! So sorry to hear about your bad experience at Chefs de France! You would think they would have a waiting area inside and a computer to keep track of their reservations. Sorry to hear you missed your dis meetup. :(

I love the boat ride to DTD from POR. It was one of my favorite things about the resort. The French Quarter is so pretty! Do you know I still have never been inside WOD? We were downtown twice this trip and still didn't have time to get there. I need to schedule more downtime next for our next trip.

So jealous about the towel animals.... we didn't get any this trip. The only thing housekeeping left us was the bottom grill to the vacuum.:lmao:

Those beignets look so yummy! I really wish we had made it over to the French Quarter for some. Next time for sure!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

Stephanie

praisehisname

01-19-2010, 07:10 PM

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0087.jpg

Oh my, those look so good! Sounds like you had a successful shopping trip!

hucifer

01-20-2010, 11:36 AM

Never had a beignet myself, but was tempted. Now that I see your picture, I'm totally regretting not having one.

disneyshakeygirl

01-21-2010, 06:22 PM

When I go, I'm getting a beignet, all thanks to you! :D

stopher1

01-23-2010, 09:36 PM

Having learned my lesson about trying to find a parking space in Downtown Disney last summer, I took the heavenly boat over there for shopping.

My building from the boat:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0089.jpg

Getting closer. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0092.jpg

Now, this is not a short ride and I don't want to fool anyone into thinking it is, however, it certainly beats driving around the parking lot for a half hour to only have to walk from Pleasure Island area to the Marketplace. Just sayin'. This is one of the best things about being at Port Orleans resorts over the other mods at Disney. And one of the reasons why Port Orleans is my area of choice first.

I LOVE taking the boats for transportation. They are a great option, and for those resorts that have them - I love using them. We enjoyed going to DTD on the boat from our Treehouse while there, and then again over to the Magic Kingdom while staying at the Wilderness Lodge. The buses are alright - and certainly if you're there with a car that's alright too - but unless you live in a waterfront community, how often do you get to take a boat to where you need to go? Let alone a monorail. Both are my preferred mode of transportation while at WDW. :)

creativeamanda

01-24-2010, 02:41 PM

What great PP pics!! :goodvibes And those beignets--YUM!!

They were!

nice pics!!!!!! Gotta love those mousekeepers!!!!!

I loved Juana! I actually sent a letter to Disney about how wonderful she was!

Love the photopass pictures! So sorry to hear about your bad experience at Chefs de France! You would think they would have a waiting area inside and a computer to keep track of their reservations. Sorry to hear you missed your dis meetup. :(

I love the boat ride to DTD from POR. It was one of my favorite things about the resort. The French Quarter is so pretty! Do you know I still have never been inside WOD? We were downtown twice this trip and still didn't have time to get there. I need to schedule more downtime next for our next trip.

So jealous about the towel animals.... we didn't get any this trip. The only thing housekeeping left us was the bottom grill to the vacuum.:lmao:

Those beignets look so yummy! I really wish we had made it over to the French Quarter for some. Next time for sure!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

Stephanie

WOD is awesome, but you can get the stuff there in most of the other stores. I like it when it is during a down time and not so crowded!

Out of 4 trips to DIsney this was my first time having a beignet. But not my last!

Oh my, those look so good! Sounds like you had a successful shopping trip!

I did! :goodvibes

Never had a beignet myself, but was tempted. Now that I see your picture, I'm totally regretting not having one.

YOu have to sometime! I had some later in my trip, lol!

When I go, I'm getting a beignet, all thanks to you! :D

:rotfl2: Great choice!

I LOVE taking the boats for transportation. They are a great option, and for those resorts that have them - I love using them. We enjoyed going to DTD on the boat from our Treehouse while there, and then again over to the Magic Kingdom while staying at the Wilderness Lodge. The buses are alright - and certainly if you're there with a car that's alright too - but unless you live in a waterfront community, how often do you get to take a boat to where you need to go? Let alone a monorail. Both are my preferred mode of transportation while at WDW. :)

I love the boat ride over, and I got to love driving to MK and taking the resort monorail around!

creativeamanda

01-24-2010, 02:56 PM

By now, one would think that I was already getting tired of eating, but I drove over to the TTC and took the monorail over to the Grand FLoridian for lunch.

If you have never seen the Grand Floridian decorated for Christmas, it is certainly one of the "must sees" that I never got tired of during this trip. My reservation was about an hour away when I got there, so I took pictures and actually checked in early.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0013-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0010-1.jpg

:cloud9: Beautiful!

I took the monorail over to Magic Kingdom. By this time, it was about 2pm, with the party starting later that night.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0026-1.jpg

Crowds were already starting to thin out.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0042.jpg

I walked this way to take pictures of the castle, and to look at what fastpasses I might want. I think I ended up with a Peter Pan's Flight one. I can't remember. What I do remember is that it was raining off and on, and the whole reason for me being there was for the Celebrate a Dream Parade at 3pm. It stopped raining just in time for the parade, which was started with a high school marching band:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0053.jpg

The parade is not one I would want to see again, because it seems almost the same as the previous parade (I think Dreams Come True?), but I'm glad I saw it.

On I went to the Jungle Cruise, where I could have had a better tour guide, but that's okay. I saw my favorite animatronics (because it was the first ones I ever saw):

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0108.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0117.jpg

I then made a little loop around, and of COURSE, I had to go to

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0120.jpg

It is now impossible for me to ride this ride without thinking of TK. And I still try to get a good picture of Jack Sparrow on the ride (which is hard with no flash) for her.

I then ride a ride I don't think I've ever done when it was NOT raining.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0136.jpg

For some odd reason, no one wants to ride this ride when it is raining. I don't get it--you're gonna get wet, anyway.

And just so you can see just how rainy it was that day, take a look at these clouds behind me:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0362.jpg

I stopped at that CM at around 5pm, just before I had my MVMCP card scanned and I ate dinner.

Coming up, It's Party Time!

kamikazecat

01-24-2010, 03:06 PM

LegoMom3

01-24-2010, 04:16 PM

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0013-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0010-1.jpg

:cloud9: Beautiful!

This really is gorgeous! Would love to see this sometime.

I took the monorail over to Magic Kingdom. By this time, it was about 2pm, with the party starting later that night.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0026-1.jpg

Crowds were already starting to thin out.

Ok, this right here reminds me of why I always go in September.....:eek: Here you are saying the crowds are thinning out, while this to me looks like a mighty crowded day!! Wow.

I then made a little loop around, and of COURSE, I had to go to

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0120.jpg

It is now impossible for me to ride this ride without thinking of TK. ....

I know, right?!....it's like this ride is the embodiment of all things TK.:lovestruc

Nice installment!:thumbsup2

.

TarzansKat

01-24-2010, 04:17 PM

AW!!! You thought of me while on POTC. Bless you! :hug:

creativeamanda

01-24-2010, 04:58 PM

I can't wait to hear about the party. We just bought into DVC and are going at Christmas for the first time. :cool1:

I love riding splash mountain. I rode it at Disneyland this Christmas when it was raining and there was no line. :goodvibes

That is awesome--I would love to buy DVC, but alas, other committments are keeping me away.

I never understood why people won't ride a water ride when it's raining. To me, that seems to be the logical time.

This really is gorgeous! Would love to see this sometime.

Ok, this right here reminds me of why I always go in September.....:eek: Here you are saying the crowds are thinning out, while this to me looks like a mighty crowded day!! Wow.

I know, right?!....it's like this ride is the embodiment of all things TK.:lovestruc

Nice installment!:thumbsup2

.
[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

The GF was really pretty. And crowds? Psh--it was more crowded when we went Oct 2008. Oct is supposed to be a low crowd time, as well.

Thanks!

AW!!! You thought of me while on POTC. Bless you! :hug:

I always think of you when I see anything dealing with POTC.

ladybugmom

01-24-2010, 05:24 PM

That gingerbread house at GF in AMAZING!!! Can't wait to see this in Dec!! Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!!! :goodvibes

TinkerbellLuvr7

01-24-2010, 08:59 PM

yay!!! Party time!!! I can't wait to see what you think :)

Nancy for Disney

01-24-2010, 10:41 PM

Great update. I can't wait to here about the party.

hucifer

01-25-2010, 10:26 AM

raider97

01-26-2010, 12:38 PM

Great update! Wow, we must have just missed each other during the day on the 18th! We had a late breakfast ressie at the Grand Floridian and got to MK about 12:30 or so. :)

Can't wait to hear about your party night! I have been checking the backgrounds of your pictures for my family. :lmao:

Stephanie

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

01-26-2010, 08:11 PM

Hi Amanda!!! Sorry I'm late...after I got back I was sooo busy then I got on here and have been trying to catch up on my buds' trip reports and get my own rolling!!! It has taken a little while, but I am all caught up now!!! Looks great so far! I'm glad you had a great time! LOL about the girls on TOT. All of your pix are great!

creativeamanda

01-27-2010, 09:25 PM

That gingerbread house at GF in AMAZING!!! Can't wait to see this in Dec!! Can't wait to hear about MVMCP!!! :goodvibes

The house was beautiful. And the smell in there? AMAZING! I'm not a gingerbread fan, but I sure could have sampled some of it, lol!

yay!!! Party time!!! I can't wait to see what you think :)

Coming soon!

Hi Amanda!!! Sorry I'm late...after I got back I was sooo busy then I got on here and have been trying to catch up on my buds' trip reports and get my own rolling!!! It has taken a little while, but I am all caught up now!!! Looks great so far! I'm glad you had a great time! LOL about the girls on TOT. All of your pix are great!

I know! I'll have to stride on over in the next day or two!

creativeamanda

01-27-2010, 09:27 PM

Reason #2 to visit the Mouse during the holidays...to see the giant gingerbread house in person. Those pictures are so pretty.

I too am looking forward to hearing about the party. I've done the Halloween one several times, but never the Christmas one.

Halloween is a great experience--it's a toss-up as to which one I like better.

Great update! Wow, we must have just missed each other during the day on the 18th! We had a late breakfast ressie at the Grand Floridian and got to MK about 12:30 or so. :)

Can't wait to hear about your party night! I have been checking the backgrounds of your pictures for my family. :lmao:

Stephanie

LOL--we must have been skipping around each other the whole time!

creativeamanda

01-27-2010, 09:45 PM

As I walk through the park for the party, I find a new spring in my step. This is kind of hard, because I've been walking in and out of the rain for a while now. But in my eyes, the rain is all gone, and my party is going to be great. Because I've been there since before the start of the party, the crowds did a great amount of thinning out. I mean, Christmas vacation, and this is a wait time?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0153.jpg

I did not take a picture of BTMRR, but I walkied right on.

Of course, nothing in the wait times matched the first time I saw this:

Before:
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0170.jpg

After:
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0210.jpg

My goodness--I could sit and look at that castle all day long! :cloud9: There are definite advantages to going to the party--shorter wait times, the cookies.

My favorite part is the fact that you can only see the Once Upon a Christmas Time parade at night during the party. For me, with Santa Clause coming through in the sleigh at night, there is a certain mystique that cannot be defined without truly being there. Believe me, I saw it both ways. I prefered night. And how did they get the candy and baking floats to smell like peppermint and gingerbread? :cloud9: I can remember inhaling so deeply as those floats went by (even though the candy float was refashioned from the candy float from the Boo To You Parade.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0328.jpg

The nutcrackers were awesome!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0348.jpg

Of course, the big Man himself!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0358.jpg

Looking down Main Street at MY HOUSE!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0234.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0370.jpg

No sooner did the parade end that I moved closer to the castle for the fireworks. I did not mind that I was waiting forever--I knew I would stay out my ticket, thanks to sleeping in that day. My goal was to capture some gorgeous fireworks. And I did:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0481.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0553.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0561.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0583.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0602.jpg

For the rest of the night, I packed away the camera and just enjoyed the sights and sounds of Magic Kingdom during the party. I know I rode the mountains and at some point called my friend, Gillian, who was with me and my kids in June to tell her where I was. But mostly, I spent the night reveling in where I was.

I was in my happy place. One that can only be created by being where I was.

And before I left for the night, I grabbed a photopass photog. Yes, I look silly with my Santa hat and Christmas sweater. I didn't care. It was all becoming reality. Sure, I missed my kids still. But I knew they were going to be home when I got there. This was truly going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I'm glad I got to have it.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0415.jpg

Coming up--"I like your shirt. Where'd you get it from?" Answer--"My homegirl TK"

ladybugmom

01-27-2010, 11:13 PM

What beautiful pics!!! And you got some amazing shots of the fireworks!!! NICE! :thumbsup2

jenjolt

01-28-2010, 07:49 AM

WOW great updates and great photos!!! That gingerbread house is simply stunning and the castle...oh the castle is gorgeous lit up like that!!

You did get some great firework shots!! WOW!!! Glad you had such a great time!

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

01-28-2010, 08:18 AM

Nice fireworks pix! Your description of how you felt was great!

creativeamanda

01-28-2010, 03:34 PM

What beautiful pics!!! And you got some amazing shots of the fireworks!!! NICE! :thumbsup2

Thanks. :flower3: I'm all embarassed--I wish the tripod had cooperated. By the end of the trip, I threw it away.

WOW great updates and great photos!!! That gingerbread house is simply stunning and the castle...oh the castle is gorgeous lit up like that!!

You did get some great firework shots!! WOW!!! Glad you had such a great time!

Thanks so much.

Nice fireworks pix! Your description of how you felt was great!

That's exactly how I felt, too. I was in my happy place the whole time.

creativeamanda

01-28-2010, 03:47 PM

Just as I had gotten to sleep from the night before (and it took me forever to get back to the room as I forgot where I had parked my car at the TTC), I got up ready to go to Epcot.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0007-1.jpg

Standing in line, I noticed this family behind me. Their girls were so sweet and then I noticed Tour Guide Mike December Vacation Club buttons on them. We chatted it up for a good amount of time, and ended up doing the rope drop and the Soarin' Stampede together. While waiting for rope drop and what not, I got several compliments all around about my tie-dyed Mickey t-shirt. People wanted to know where I got it from.

Hint, all--TarzanKat. Great work, quick shipment. It really made my day to be able to tell people to check her out.

Anywho--the shirt makes its appearance before long. . .

Rope drop Mickey Mouse:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0115.jpg

Soarin' Stampede--I think we all waited all of 5 minutes for Soarin'

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0125.jpg

I got off of Soarin' and went over to get Fastpasses, said so long to my TGM buddies, and took a picture of the ants in the Land. Or at least, that's what they looked like.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0129.jpg

I went from there to Test Track, then Mission Space, then Test Track, then Mission Space. After that, I felt sick. I wonder why. :rolleyes1

My two TT photos. Sorry, no shot of the shirt--it was too cold on the ride!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0484.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0501.jpg

And just so you can see the shirt--this is it. I know it's later in the day, but I douldn't leave you all hanging.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0541.jpg

TarzansKat

01-28-2010, 04:44 PM

kamikazecat

01-28-2010, 08:22 PM

With every update I am getting more and more jealous of your solo trip. :lmao:

I am really looking forward to MVMCP next year. :goodvibes

eandesmom

01-28-2010, 08:46 PM

what beautiful castle photos! I love your description of the nighttime parade versus the day time, I can completely get that "mystique" it would be very very magical indeed.

The shirt looks great!

TK rocks.

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

01-28-2010, 10:57 PM

What a thrill-seeker you are! You got a bunch of major riding in!!! Love the shirt!!!

ladybugmom

01-28-2010, 11:20 PM

LOVE the shirt!! :lovestruc

deanie

01-28-2010, 11:44 PM

I am loving the trip report. :thumbsup2I just finished reading your dining review also and it was excellent!! Can't wait for more.

stopher1

01-29-2010, 08:23 AM

My favorite part is the fact that you can only see the Once Upon a Christmas Time parade at night during the party.

No sooner did the parade end that I moved closer to the castle for the fireworks. I did not mind that I was waiting forever--I knew I would stay out my ticket, thanks to sleeping in that day. My goal was to capture some gorgeous fireworks. And I did:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0481.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0553.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0561.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0583.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0602.jpg

You did get some nice fireworks pics! Awesome. Nice update too. Although I must say that I tend to disagree with you regarding the Christmas parade. Sure it is nice that it's included in the party - but at the same time, it stinks for all those guests who are there for Christmas festivities, but can't afford the extra cost of the hard ticketed party. I've been to the party before, and it's great fun, but I've also experienced being there and not going to the party and it's kind of a let down not being able to see the parade without forking out extra cash to do so. In comparison and for that reason I personally prefer Disneyland at Christmastime since all of the Christmas festivities (parade 2x/day and all) are just part of the regular operating day. NO hard ticketed parties. But - that's just MHO. It is really cool though that you got some great photos, had some awesome wait times and really enjoyed yourself! Kudos! :thumbsup2

stopher1

01-29-2010, 08:28 AM

Soarin' Stampede--I think we all waited all of 5 minutes for Soarin'
I went from there to Test Track, then Mission Space, then Test Track, then Mission Space. After that, I felt sick. I wonder why. :rolleyes1

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0541.jpg

:rotfl: I love it!

Nice shirt too. :) What a great shot with SE in the background. Where were you at this point? It's hard to tell which WS pavilion you were standing in.

creativeamanda

01-30-2010, 04:21 PM

I got a shout out! WOOT! :yay: :banana: :cool1:

I'm glad you liked your shirt, and I am tickled that you got so many compliments on it. :goodvibes

I'm happy to read such a glowing review of the Christmas party. I've not always heard the best things, and I'm glad you had a good time and really enjoyed your special alone time in your happy place. Awesome! :thumbsup2

Of course you got a shout out! That shirt is great!

I did love the party, but at the same time, I probably would not get tickets again unless I had the kids with me.

With every update I am getting more and more jealous of your solo trip. :lmao:

I am really looking forward to MVMCP next year. :goodvibes

You will love it!

what beautiful castle photos! I love your description of the nighttime parade versus the day time, I can completely get that "mystique" it would be very very magical indeed.

The shirt looks great!

TK rocks.

TK does rock, and thanks for the complements on the pictures.

What a thrill-seeker you are! You got a bunch of major riding in!!! Love the shirt!!!

I really felt bad after that whirlwind set of rides. But I had fun!

LOVE the shirt!! :lovestruc

Thanks!

I am loving the trip report. :thumbsup2I just finished reading your dining review also and it was excellent!! Can't wait for more.

Thanks and :welcome:

You did get some nice fireworks pics! Awesome. Nice update too. Although I must say that I tend to disagree with you regarding the Christmas parade. Sure it is nice that it's included in the party - but at the same time, it stinks for all those guests who are there for Christmas festivities, but can't afford the extra cost of the hard ticketed party. I've been to the party before, and it's great fun, but I've also experienced being there and not going to the party and it's kind of a let down not being able to see the parade without forking out extra cash to do so. In comparison and for that reason I personally prefer Disneyland at Christmastime since all of the Christmas festivities (parade 2x/day and all) are just part of the regular operating day. NO hard ticketed parties. But - that's just MHO. It is really cool though that you got some great photos, had some awesome wait times and really enjoyed yourself! Kudos! :thumbsup2

Thanks about the pictures--I learned a great bit about my camera that week!

As far as the parties go, I totally get what you are saying, but at the same time, I do think that the parties are a great option many times.

:rotfl: I love it!

Nice shirt too. :) What a great shot with SE in the background. Where were you at this point? It's hard to tell which WS pavilion you were standing in.

I really don't remember where I was in that picture--I know I was between Germany and Mexico, because I know that is the direction I was heading in.

creativeamanda

01-30-2010, 04:36 PM

Now, I saved most of this report for my dining report, but after all of my traveling around that morning, I have lunch at Coral Reef. I have to add this lunch in because it was truly one of the best experiences on this trip.

It was an awesome experience because of my seat.

Here I am, there, and do you see the background?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0145.jpg

Yes, that flash is indicative of being sat right beside the fish tank.

Best. Seat. Ever.

Without a doubt.

Pictures, as I always say, are worth a thousand words, and this is what I watched the entire time:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0156.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0160.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0149.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0148.jpg

After this lunch, which was awesome, by the way, I went back to the resort for a rest. I needed some rest, expecially after the rides.

When I came back from my nap, I had dinner at Chefs de France. I checked in for dinner about 20 minutes before time. I felt a little forboding at the fact that when I said and spelled my name, he seemed not to understand me. After sitting and waiting in the cold outside for greater than 45 minutes, and watching people who came after me and had later ADRs get seated before me, I went to find out what was wrong. They did not have my name or my party size right.

I left and got a snack in Germany. I was mad.

And I missed a Tour Guide Mike meet in the whole process.

I did get a good picture of the Christmas tree in the American Pavilion looking for something to eat:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0032.jpg

And I found and awesome spot for Illuminations between Germany and Italy and these are my pictures--I thought they were great:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0084.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0105.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0112.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0144.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0207.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0212.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0217.jpg

After Illuminations, I made a slow stroll out of the park. . .

Bye, World Showcase:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0263.jpg

The tree coming into the World SHowcase

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0268.jpg

And photopass on my way out:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0551.jpg

Coming up. . .Lions and Tigers and Monkeys (Oh MY!)

SadieDog

01-30-2010, 04:53 PM

Love all the pics. :thumbsup2

TinkerbellLuvr7

01-30-2010, 05:57 PM

aww sorry about the whole France thing :( I know the feeling since that sorta happened to us at Ohana which you'll read in my coming reports :( Nice spot for fw's. We stood in a similar spot as well :) Can't wait for the rest!

LegoMom3

01-30-2010, 07:52 PM

......
And photopass on my way out:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0551.jpg

Coming up. . .Lions and Tigers and Monkeys (Oh MY!)

I really, really like that picture! But......

NO MONKEYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:mad:

:rotfl2:

.

creativeamanda

01-31-2010, 08:35 AM

Love all the pics. :thumbsup2

Thanks, Sadiedog!

aww sorry about the whole France thing :( I know the feeling since that sorta happened to us at Ohana which you'll read in my coming reports :( Nice spot for fw's. We stood in a similar spot as well :) Can't wait for the rest!

I hate you had a situation like that at Ohana. Ohana really has a bad setup for check in. It really makes me rethink my reservation there. . .

I really, really like that picture! But.....

NO MONKEYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:mad:

:rotfl2:

.

You'll see. . .

patches07

01-31-2010, 02:03 PM

Love all the pics. :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

stopher1

01-31-2010, 09:46 PM

More great pics... I love the ones at Coral Reef. We've eaten there twice before - had great views, but never seated right next to the tank. That's awesome!

Love your illuminations pics as well. Bummer about France. That's always been my biggest worry when eating at TS locations - they won't have my name in their computer... ugh. All in all though, it really looks/sounds like you had a nice trip.

ladybugmom

02-01-2010, 04:02 PM

Yay! Glad that you had such a wonderful lunch at Coral Reef! But that's awful that Chefs de Fance lost your ressie! YIKES! :scared1: I'm so sorry. Your Illuminations and PP pics are beautiful!! :goodvibes

creativeamanda

02-01-2010, 04:39 PM

Love all the pics. :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

Thanks! I really enjoyed my camera this time.

More great pics... I love the ones at Coral Reef. We've eaten there twice before - had great views, but never seated right next to the tank. That's awesome!

This was my third visit to Coral Reef, but we won't be going in May/June because I know not sitting next to the tank will be a let down. And I don't recall seeing a table to accomodate a party of 5 over there.

Love your illuminations pics as well. Bummer about France. That's always been my biggest worry when eating at TS locations - they won't have my name in their computer... ugh. All in all though, it really looks/sounds like you had a nice trip.

It was very frustrating, but it's all over and I had a great evening!

Yay! Glad that you had such a wonderful lunch at Coral Reef! But that's awful that Chefs de Fance lost your ressie! YIKES! :scared1: I'm so sorry. Your Illuminations and PP pics are beautiful!! :goodvibes

I know--I don't think I'd make another reservation there. I snagged a Le Cellier lunch today that I'm going to hold onto for dear life, lol. Thanks for the complements about my pictures--I love my camera, but I'm still learning it.

creativeamanda

02-02-2010, 06:44 PM

Breakfast Sunday morning found me at Animal Kingdom Lodge for Boma. I won't say much about it, other than it is in my opinion, the best breakfast on Disney property. I did get a chance to take some pictures at AKL first.

The main entrance:
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0213.jpg

The Christmas tree in the lobby. I was skeptical of how this would look, but I can assure you that it was by far one of the most beautiful trees on property.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0214.jpg

A smaller tree near Boma
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0221.jpg

I took a picture of the flamingos outside of AKL before breakfast. It was cool, but the animals were out in full force.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0231.jpg

After breakfast, I went to Animal Kingdom, where I headed straight for. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0012.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0014.jpg

It was wonderful! I rode it twice before I decided to go over to Dinosaur (single rider line, guys--the way to go!)

By the time I got over to Dinosaur, the ride was down for some time. I grabbed a fast pass, and then walked back over to Asia to see some of the animals. Out first were the (HIDE YOUR EYES, LEGOMOM) monkeys:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0023.jpg

I then took the

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0025.jpg

Where I saw this beauty:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0044.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0045.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0053-1.jpg

There were also these. . .and okay, no Lions--but that tiger! :lovestruc

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0062-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0068.jpg

Coming up--39 degrees. . .do I ride Kali River Rapids?

kamikazecat

02-02-2010, 07:51 PM

iluvwdw5

02-02-2010, 07:52 PM

I just sat and devoured this tr! LOVE IT!!! The photos you took were A.MAZ.ing! WOW!! I can't wait to read more:)

Mollyremy

02-02-2010, 07:52 PM

Really enjoying your posts! I think I would like to go solo sometime. For now though it's the DH DS & me!

Mollyremy

02-02-2010, 07:54 PM

Your pictures are awesome too!!! Makes me so homesick for MK!!!

TinkerbellLuvr7

02-02-2010, 08:33 PM

ACTUALLY....and this is the AK/Kids Discovery Club/CM in me knowledge of the day..haha..

They are actually apes called Siamangs. They aren't monkeys bc they don't have tails :) I got paid daily to correct guests on that! It's mom, dad, and their baby who live there and the baby girl is 2 :) The "monkeys" which are apes as well on the other side are White Cheeked Gibbons. They don't have tails either. A mom, dad, older brother, and younger brother live there and that mom is currently preggos with another :)

And that is my lesson of the day lol. Now when you go again in May you can educate your family..and the other guests around you :)

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

02-02-2010, 09:44 PM

I somehow missed an update...but am all caught up now!!

Your first illuminations picture reminds me of peacocks!! LOL They are all great shots though!!

We never ended up eating at Boma on our trip. Had it scheduled and we even stayed the last half of our trip at AKL, but never made it. Next time???

LegoMom3

02-03-2010, 08:39 AM

...
They are actually apes called Siamangs. They aren't monkeys bc they don't have tails :) ...

"If it doesn't have a tail it's not a monkey, even though it has a monkey kind of shape....If it doesn't have tail it's not a monkey -- if it doesn't have a tail it's not a monkey it's an ape!"

:rotfl2:

Sorry, just a little Silly Songs With Larry there to start my day!!

Ok, on to the TR -- LOVE it! Pics are fantastic. EE has a single-rider line?!!?:eek: I'm so there. I also want to go to AK on it's morning EMH day and do the Kilamanjaro Safari first thing. Hopefully I'll see lots of creatures out and about!

And isn't AKL just beautiful??! Wow....

.

raider97

02-03-2010, 08:08 PM

Great update Amanda! I love the pictures you got of the AKL. We will have to try Boma next time! We really enjoy breakfast buffets. I just finished up your dining report! It was great! Haven't had a chance to comment on it yet.

I rode Everest for the first time this trip and loved it!! We didn't make it on the trails this time, but I just love the tigers on that one! So sad we missed it! This is Sunday for you right? Can't wait for more!

hucifer

02-04-2010, 11:31 AM

I haven't been on the DIS much lately, and I see that I missed a few installments.

First of all, the castle at Christmas is unbelievably gorgeous. I would LOVE to see that in person!

Second, you do take some very lovely photos. I loved the Wishes shots, and can admire any camera that can take decent fireworks pictures.

Third, I would have been FURIOUS at the French restaurant. I mean, yes, it was simple human error, but if he was confused during check-in, he should have made sure he had your information correct. And at least try to remedy it immediately by seating you right away.

stopher1

02-05-2010, 07:48 AM

Breakfast Sunday morning found me at Animal Kingdom Lodge for Boma.

All I'm going to say is YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

We love Boma!

creativeamanda

02-07-2010, 03:33 PM

Where are the flamingos? There are my all time favorite animal and I would love to see them. We went to AKL last trip to check out the resort but I must have missed these beautiful creatures. :lovestruc

When I went out of the door going towards the fitness center at AKL, they were on the left. My dd11 loves them, too!

I just sat and devoured this tr! LOVE IT!!! The photos you took were A.MAZ.ing! WOW!! I can't wait to read more:)

Thanks! I really enjoyed taking these pictures!

Really enjoying your posts! I think I would like to go solo sometime. For now though it's the DH DS & me!

Going solo is great! I really enjoyed it, and will have to do it again!

Your pictures are awesome too!!! Makes me so homesick for MK!!!

Thanks! I miss Disney, too!

ACTUALLY....and this is the AK/Kids Discovery Club/CM in me knowledge of the day..haha..

They are actually apes called Siamangs. They aren't monkeys bc they don't have tails :) I got paid daily to correct guests on that! It's mom, dad, and their baby who live there and the baby girl is 2 :) The "monkeys" which are apes as well on the other side are White Cheeked Gibbons. They don't have tails either. A mom, dad, older brother, and younger brother live there and that mom is currently preggos with another :)

And that is my lesson of the day lol. Now when you go again in May you can educate your family..and the other guests around you :)

Yay! They aren't monkeys! That should help Legomom.

And I can't wait to be a teacher! :rotfl:

I somehow missed an update...but am all caught up now!!

Your first illuminations picture reminds me of peacocks!! LOL They are all great shots though!!

We never ended up eating at Boma on our trip. Had it scheduled and we even stayed the last half of our trip at AKL, but never made it. Next time???

You should try Boma--it is a great breakfast!

"If it doesn't have a tail it's not a monkey, even though it has a monkey kind of shape....If it doesn't have tail it's not a monkey -- if it doesn't have a tail it's not a monkey it's an ape!"

:rotfl2:

Sorry, just a little Silly Songs With Larry there to start my day!!

Ok, on to the TR -- LOVE it! Pics are fantastic. EE has a single-rider line?!!?:eek: I'm so there. I also want to go to AK on it's morning EMH day and do the Kilamanjaro Safari first thing. Hopefully I'll see lots of creatures out and about!

And isn't AKL just beautiful??! Wow....

.

:rotfl2: Yes--EE has a single rider line and it's set up better than Rock n Roller Coaster! When the single rider line gets longer, they close it for a while!

It's right between the fastpass line and the litte shop as you get off of the ride.

I did not do the safari this time, but we will in May!

Great update Amanda! I love the pictures you got of the AKL. We will have to try Boma next time! We really enjoy breakfast buffets. I just finished up your dining report! It was great! Haven't had a chance to comment on it yet.

I rode Everest for the first time this trip and loved it!! We didn't make it on the trails this time, but I just love the tigers on that one! So sad we missed it! This is Sunday for you right? Can't wait for more!

THis is Sunday! I had a ball here this day, but I was back and forth all through the park, lol.

I haven't been on the DIS much lately, and I see that I missed a few installments.

First of all, the castle at Christmas is unbelievably gorgeous. I would LOVE to see that in person!

Second, you do take some very lovely photos. I loved the Wishes shots, and can admire any camera that can take decent fireworks pictures.

Third, I would have been FURIOUS at the French restaurant. I mean, yes, it was simple human error, but if he was confused during check-in, he should have made sure he had your information correct. And at least try to remedy it immediately by seating you right away.

Thanks for the compliments on my pictures. I had one friend comment that a couple were overdeveloped--I don't think he realized I was actually going for that with some of the fireworks pictures.

All I'm going to say is YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

We love Boma!

Boma is excellent!

kangaand2roos

02-08-2010, 05:07 PM

Subbing! I've done two solo trips and loved them both. I did miss the kiddie but absence makes the heart grow fonder! It was great to be at WDW by myself, and great to get back to my babies!

disneyshakeygirl

02-09-2010, 09:09 AM

I am so glad that somebody loves EE as much as I do, nobody will ever go on it with me because they're too frightened!

The Christmas trees look gorgeous!

TarzansKat

02-09-2010, 06:19 PM

I sat at the tank in the Coral Reef once, and absolutely loved it. Mesmerizing. It did however, feel hypocritical, because I totally had fish for lunch. :lmao:

I'm sorry about France. What a bummer. On the upside, you got some incredible Illuminations photos! :goodvibes

Beautiful pictures of the tigers! I think one of my favorite things about your trip report is all the wonderful photos.

praisehisname

02-10-2010, 04:33 PM

All caught up again! :thumbsup2 Looking forward to seeing if you rode Kali in the cold. :scared1:

Denise

DisneyGuy758

02-10-2010, 04:45 PM

I have around four TRs that I'm subscribed to, and I need more! If I can't be there...I'd rather read about others being there!

kangaand2roos

02-10-2010, 04:54 PM

I have around four TRs that I'm subscribed to, and I need more! If I can't be there...I'd rather read about others being there!

Join my PTR, DisneyGuy! I even have bonus blizzard photos from here in PA!

DisneyGuy758

02-10-2010, 05:10 PM

Join my PTR, DisneyGuy! I even have bonus blizzard photos from here in PA!

I'll check it out!

I'm jealous of the snow though. I'm WAY further north, and have NOTHING.

stopher1

02-11-2010, 12:22 PM

I have around four TRs that I'm subscribed to, and I need more! If I can't be there...I'd rather read about others being there!

You could read through mine from last month (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34973892#post34973892). 10 nights, 3 resorts, 7 crazy family members, lots of pics and fairly nice weather...

creativeamanda

02-18-2010, 03:55 PM

Subbing! I've done two solo trips and loved them both. I did miss the kiddie but absence makes the heart grow fonder! It was great to be at WDW by myself, and great to get back to my babies!

It is great--I felt refreshed when I got back and seemed to have a lot more patience with them.

I am so glad that somebody loves EE as much as I do, nobody will ever go on it with me because they're too frightened!

The Christmas trees look gorgeous!

Well, that's what the single rider line is for ;)

I sat at the tank in the Coral Reef once, and absolutely loved it. Mesmerizing. It did however, feel hypocritical, because I totally had fish for lunch. :lmao:

I'm sorry about France. What a bummer. On the upside, you got some incredible Illuminations photos! :goodvibes

Beautiful pictures of the tigers! I think one of my favorite things about your trip report is all the wonderful photos.

I had fish for lunch, too, lol. I did enjoy Illuminations and can't believe it took me so long to see it!

I love, love, love my camera and I'm looking at a new lens for it. I think I'm going to rent the one I want to buy for my May/June trip for a test drive.

All caught up again! :thumbsup2 Looking forward to seeing if you rode Kali in the cold. :scared1:

Denise

lol, it's coming up!

I have around four TRs that I'm subscribed to, and I need more! If I can't be there...I'd rather read about others being there!

Join my PTR, DisneyGuy! I even have bonus blizzard photos from here in PA!

I'll check it out!

I'm jealous of the snow though. I'm WAY further north, and have NOTHING.

You could read through mine from last month (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34973892#post34973892). 10 nights, 3 resorts, 7 crazy family members, lots of pics and fairly nice weather...

TRs are great--makes you get ready for upcoming trips and relive past ones!

creativeamanda

02-18-2010, 04:06 PM

Kali River Rapids. . .One of my favorite rides in Animal Kingdom. Last October, in 40 degree weather, my family rode it three times in succession, never getting off the ride. The result? We had to buy sweatshirts at the park and dry our jeans out at the hand dryers in the bathrooms.

June 2009, this is Boo after a ride on Kali. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/DSC_0282.jpg

I am quite aware of how wet one might get on Kali. I knew it was cold that day. I really wasn't planning on riding it.

But I left the Marajarah Jungle Trek and walked over to the bridge, "Just to see".

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0083.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0090.jpg

Then I looked over at the non existent line. And I thought, I've had lunch, I'm going back to the room. How bad can it be?

I hopped on the ride with a 2-3 min wait, pulled out my trusty poncho, and of course, got stuck on the ride. Yep--39 degree weather and I'm stuck on Kali River Rapids. As I got off the ride, there was still very little wait, but I had no desire to get back on.

I walked over and took some photos of the tree

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0101.jpg

and caught a Fastpass photographer

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0575.jpg

Yep, not a drop of water!

I can tell, my luck may run out in May.

Coming up, what restaurant becomes my new favorite?

LegoMom3

02-18-2010, 05:04 PM

Yes, but in May it'll be a heap warmer than 39 degrees!!!:scared1:

.

disneyshakeygirl

02-18-2010, 05:39 PM

I have never been on Kali River Rapids, and I'm kind of split on whether or not I should go :)

I forgot to add, that I love your photos!

creativeamanda

02-18-2010, 05:48 PM

Yes, but in May it'll be a heap warmer than 39 degrees!!!:scared1:

.

LOL, that it will . . .that it will.

I have never been on Kali River Rapids, and I'm kind of split on whether or not I should go :)

I forgot to add, that I love your photos!

Oh, thanks so much, hon :goodvibes

I love Kali River Rapids--just make sure you bring a poncho or change of clothes.

OrangeJax

02-18-2010, 06:12 PM

I just read your TR and am LOVING it! I love all of your photos, and it seems as if we have similar tastes in rides/food! Can't wait to hear the rest!

creativeamanda

02-18-2010, 06:35 PM

I just read your TR and am LOVING it! I love all of your photos, and it seems as if we have similar tastes in rides/food! Can't wait to hear the rest!

Thanks! And :welcome:

OT, but LEGOMOM!!!!!! I thought your ticker was for a trip farther away?!?! What have I been missing?!?

LegoMom3

02-18-2010, 08:20 PM

Thanks! And :welcome:

OT, but LEGOMOM!!!!!! I thought your ticker was for a trip farther away?!?! What have I been missing?!?

Oh, yeah....you caught that, huh?!....;)

Ok, here's the scoop: was watching "Yard Crashers" recently -- it was a special where they did a project at the Flower & Garden Festival last year. Suddenly I found myself thinking, "You know, it's been 14 years since I saw the F&G....I would really love to see that again. And HEY!....Disney has some nice discounts out for spring travel!...."

And, well, the rest is history. A few clicks here, some web browsing there, and voila!.... I mean really, what better time to really take in the Flower & Garden Festival, than without all my men in tow?!....:lmao:

.

creativeamanda

02-19-2010, 09:47 AM

Oh, yeah....you caught that, huh?!....;)

Ok, here's the scoop: was watching "Yard Crashers" recently -- it was a special where they did a project at the Flower & Garden Festival last year. Suddenly I found myself thinking, "You know, it's been 14 years since I saw the F&G....I would really love to see that again. And HEY!....Disney has some nice discounts out for spring travel!...."

And, well, the rest is history. A few clicks here, some web browsing there, and voila!.... I mean really, what better time to really take in the Flower & Garden Festival, than without all my men in tow?!....:lmao:

.

LOL, another instance of fuzzy Disney math, huh? ;)

eandesmom

02-19-2010, 05:44 PM

Yay for not getting wet

Boo for getting stuck.

39 degrees.

BRRR!

praisehisname

02-19-2010, 06:02 PM

Yay for riding, even in the cold! Like you said, you were heading back to the room, how bad could it be? :rolleyes1

creativeamanda

02-20-2010, 09:13 AM

Yay for not getting wet

Boo for getting stuck.

39 degrees.

BRRR!

It would not have been so bad if this guy who couldn't stop spouting all of his "knowledge" of Disney all over. Let me say, I remained tight-lipped, but 99.9% of what he was telling was either wrong or outdated.

Yay for riding, even in the cold! Like you said, you were heading back to the room, how bad could it be? :rolleyes1

:rotfl2: I'm glad I took my poncho. . .

LegoMom3

02-20-2010, 10:48 AM

LOL, another instance of fuzzy Disney math, huh? ;)

It was TOTALLY "Fuzzy Disney Math"!!!.....but you know what? -- It works!!:thumbsup2

:rotfl2:
.

creativeamanda

02-20-2010, 11:30 AM

It was TOTALLY "Fuzzy Disney Math"!!!.....but you know what? -- It works!!:thumbsup2

:rotfl2:
.

I knew it. . .

Really, %off on your room works out better when you are by yourself than Free Dining, anyway.

ladybugmom

02-20-2010, 11:58 AM

xDisneyAngelx

02-20-2010, 03:06 PM

Great Trip Report Cant Wait To Read More :-)

TarzansKat

02-20-2010, 04:37 PM

I didn't know you could rent a camera lens. That's so neat.

You look so serious in your photopass photo! It must have been getting stuck on Kali that did it to you. :lmao:

creativeamanda

02-21-2010, 05:37 PM

WOW!! I'm impressed that you rode Kali River Rapids with it being that cold! I won't even ride it in the heat--I don't like being wet in my clothes. That's great that you didn't get wet at all!!! :goodvibes

I got lucky--I've learned that when you end up forward just before the fall on Kali, you will end the fall backwards and get soaked. The opposite happened and I was grateful.

Great Trip Report Cant Wait To Read More :-)

Thanks and :welcome:

I didn't know you could rent a camera lens. That's so neat.

You look so serious in your photopass photo! It must have been getting stuck on Kali that did it to you. :lmao:

This site: http://www.lensrentals.com/ is relatively inexpensive with their lens rentals. I intend to rent this one: http://www.lensrentals.com/rent/nikon-18-200mm-f3.5-5.6g-af-s-vr-ii/for-nikon for June. Another place I've looked at is www.borrowlenses.com.

I don't know why I looked so serious. Maybe I was tired? I don't know--I know I needed to get back to the room for rest!

creativeamanda

02-21-2010, 05:50 PM

So this afternoon, I had a reservation at a location somewhere around the monorail line. Before I got there, however, I took the obligatory monorail line Christmas tour. I decided to just walk over to the Polynesian, rather than get on the monorail to ride all of 300 feet. (I know it's longer, but, you get the idea).

I love the Poly, even though I don't think I'll ever be able to stay there.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0002.jpg

I walked over to the beach to take some awesome photographs.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0007-2.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0008-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0011.jpg

For some reason, I have no good pictures of the Christmas decor at the Poly, but this is the reason why I like the Poly. . .the fountain in the lobby.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0016.jpg

I skipped the Grand Floridian for now, and went over to the COntemporary Resort from there.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0027.jpg

View from the monorail:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0036-1.jpg

Then, I went back over to the Grand Floridian:

The Christmas tree

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0065-1.jpg

Mickey and Minnie character greeting

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0044-1.jpg

Orchestra in the lobby

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0063-1.jpg

Areal of the gingerbread house

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0064.jpg

By this time, I was ready to go over for dinner at my new favorite restaurant, which sadly, is no longer on my list for dining in June. Still, I can go back later. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0077.jpg

The following is from my dining review:

So, for dinner on the 4th night, I was heading out to:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/DSC_0087.jpg

I had never been here before, but really wanted to try this one. My reservations were at 6:55pm. I checked in at 6:30 and was seated at 6:40.

My server was Tom, who was awesome. He was super funny, kept my drink filled, and was attentive, but not so attentive he was annoying. I was never left waiting for anything from the kitchen or the bar.

For my appetizer, I had: Crab Cakes - Southern Slaw and Cajun Remoulade sauce $13

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/DSC_0091.jpg

These up to this date, were the best crab cakes ever. They were perfectly crispy on the outside, and wonderfully flavorful. The slaw and remoulade gave them a kick that made me wishing this was not just an appetizer.

With my coke, I also had the Narcoossee's lemonade

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/DSC_0092.jpg

This was delicious. Not too sweet, just the right amount of alcohol.

My entre was the Grilled Filet Mignon - potato gratin, broccolini and choron sauce $41.

I had thought of the lobster here, but I really wanted a better Disney filet than the one I got at Yachtsman.

I got it! It was cooked perfectly, the potatoes and beans (not broccolini as in the allears description) were a perfect accompaniment, and I ate every bite.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/DSC_0095.jpg

Finally for dessert I had Almond-crusted Cheesecake - with lambert cherry sauce $8 which was with a blueberry sauce, unlike the allears description.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/DSC_0098.jpg

This was heavenly! I enjoyed the 1/4 I ate, but I was so full, I couldn't eat it all. I wish I had boxed it--it would have been fine in my backpack at the park because it ended up being frigid beyond belief that night!

Narcoossee's wins the new award for my favorite restaurant on Disney property, replacing another Grand Floridian location: the Grand Floridian Cafe.

Overall:
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5--I was seated looking out at the castle. It was simply beautiful!
Service: 6 out of 5--I will ask for Tom again in June!
Wait Time: 5 out of 5
Food Quality: 10 out of 5 (Can I do that? Well, I guess I did, lol)
Overall: 6.5 out of 5

Coming up. . .hopping over to Magic Kingdom EMH.

TinkerbellLuvr7

02-21-2010, 08:39 PM

OMG THAT FOOD LOOKS SOOOOOOO YUMMY!!!!

I'll have to put that restaurant in mind for future trips!

praisehisname

02-21-2010, 08:47 PM

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0077.jpg

We loved it there so much that DH has requested to repeat it in November! What made you take it off your list for June?

eandesmom

02-21-2010, 08:50 PM

ooh! Great Narcoosees review, it is on my maybe list for date night in August...if we end up having a date night!

That looks absolutely delish!

creativeamanda

02-21-2010, 08:53 PM

OMG THAT FOOD LOOKS SOOOOOOO YUMMY!!!!

I'll have to put that restaurant in mind for future trips!

It is really great!

We loved it there so much that DH has requested to repeat it in November! What made you take it off your list for June?

We are doing the regular dining plan in June and we already have reservations for CRT. I know it's not the best probably eating wise, but none of us have ever been and the girls have BBB reservations right beforehand. I'm kind of sad, but we are trying a lot of new places, and I know that when I return, I'll go back there. Our new places this coming trip:
Teppan Edo
CRT
Boatwright's
1900 Park Fare
Crystal Palace Breakfast

dh's new places (but not mine)
Cape May
Boma
Tutto Italia

creativeamanda

02-21-2010, 08:54 PM

ooh! Great Narcoosees review, it is on my maybe list for date night in August...if we end up having a date night!

That looks absolutely delish!

It is really wonderful! YOu really should do a date night for it. The couple next to me seemed to really enjoy their date night there.

stopher1

02-21-2010, 09:24 PM

Another great update! We stayed at the GF for our honeymoon, and amazingly didn't eat at Narcoosee's. It's been 16 years, and we still haven't eaten there. Definitely on our must try list now. Great review & food porn.

But I will say, of all of these pics, this one is my hands-down favorite. I just love the composition of it. :thumbsup2

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0007-2.jpg

creativeamanda

02-21-2010, 09:43 PM

Another great update! We stayed at the GF for our honeymoon, and amazingly didn't eat at Narcoosee's. It's been 16 years, and we still haven't eaten there. Definitely on our must try list now. Great review & food porn.

But I will say, of all of these pics, this one is my hands-down favorite. I just love the composition of it. :thumbsup2

This is one of my favorites, as well. But not my favorite. I took my favorite my last day.

TarzansKat

02-22-2010, 07:14 AM

I love your pictures from the Poly. Don't you just love that aroma in the lobby? I think every resort has a particular scent, and when I walk into the Poly, it just smells like the Poly, kwim? Wonderful.

Your meal looks amazing. I haven't eaten at Narcossee's in years. We actually walked out...many, many, many moons ago because we weren't that thrilled with the menu. Would you say they have a lot of items on their menu or is it still pretty narrow?

I'm glad you got a good filet, at least you had a good experience after Yachtsmen! :thumbsup2

creativeamanda

02-24-2010, 08:23 AM

I love your pictures from the Poly. Don't you just love that aroma in the lobby? I think every resort has a particular scent, and when I walk into the Poly, it just smells like the Poly, kwim? Wonderful.

I actually know exactly what you mean. I really would love to stay there, but funds for a teacher makes that difficult. Maybe if I save fore a full year we could do it instead of taking 2 trips in the same year.

Your meal looks amazing. I haven't eaten at Narcossee's in years. We actually walked out...many, many, many moons ago because we weren't that thrilled with the menu. Would you say they have a lot of items on their menu or is it still pretty narrow?

I think it has a menu the size of most of the other signature TS locations. Not large, but not really small. I did break down and make a reservation there for June, even though I said we wouldn't. DH says it'll be a late one, but it's my Mother's Day dinner.

I'm glad you got a good filet, at least you had a good experience after Yachtsmen! :thumbsup2

I know. I actually thought about the Yachtsman, ya know, giving it another try. But I decided it would not be a good idea with kids in tow.

creativeamanda

02-24-2010, 08:39 AM

To say it was cold that night is putting it mildly. I typically don't like being in the cold, but I was in Disney World, after all. It's amazing how we tend to overlook some amount of discomfort when it's somethinge we really want to do.

But, just for an idea, this was me that night after Wishes:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Image0640.jpg

When I got to Magic Kingdom, it was close to 7:30, and Main Street was full. I mean, really full. I did, however, find a spot on Main Street between the Plaza and the mouth of the hub. I noticed a family of three with a very young (3ish) child sitting there and I asked them if they minded if I stand behind them with my camera and tripod. It was an awesome location, and I was grateful for it.

Going into the Magic Kingdom:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0106.jpg

Stopping on Main Street for photographs:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0115.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0116.jpg

Across the street and diagonally from where I was standing--I've never been here (as I duck and cover)

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0127.jpg

I talked at length with the families around us. They were all awesome people, just having a great time. The family who let me stand behind them was there on their first trip with their daughter and she was really enjoying herself.

And before long, it was time for Spectromagic:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0133.jpg

My favorite float in the parade:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0152.jpg

And here is where she decided to lean all over me and my tripod:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0178.jpg

A lady from a tour group decided she needed a picture. Now, I could hear her daughter screaming for Ariel and I was more than happy to lean over tot he side for her to get a picture. But then, it all went horribly wrong. She was all over me and my camera and shoved her way in front of another family. Until we told her to back off.

I will let other children in front of me--and I did for this parade, because they were short and I had a tripod. But I do NOT like it when people lean all over me, especially since I got there early and had been waiting for well over an hour, knowing the park would be packed with EMH being later.

Either way, we got her to move back.

And I got more great photos. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0183.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0194.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0211.jpg

Coming up. . .Holiday Wishes.

hucifer

02-24-2010, 11:41 AM

DisneyGuy758

02-25-2010, 02:08 PM

I agree 100% with you on adults pushing through. When we went in 2007, we sat and waited for Spectro Magic for almost two hours. We had a great spot across from Casey's (shame on you for never going there ;) we were probably right where you were too...) and as people came in behind us, they would slowly push forward. Kids, yes, and we did let some by us to sit on the curb next to DS8 and DS1 (at the time) but then their parents started to movie forward too. DW and I both told them to stop crowding as they were ramming their stroller wheel into not only my heel, but DS1's rear end.

Other than that. We LOVED the parade.

creativeamanda

02-27-2010, 10:20 PM

I can't get over how beautiful the castle is at Christmas. Actually, I cannot believe how COLD it was! Holy cow, that's cold.

I loved your description of Narcoosees' food. I haven't been there before, but now I REALLY want to try it.

It was freezing. Lots of people didn't bring scarves and gloves with them, so they were flying off the shelves at the resort stores. I'm glad I got mine from JC Penney before the trip.

Narcoossee's was awesome!

I agree 100% with you on adults pushing through. When we went in 2007, we sat and waited for Spectro Magic for almost two hours. We had a great spot across from Casey's (shame on you for never going there ;) we were probably right where you were too...) and as people came in behind us, they would slowly push forward. Kids, yes, and we did let some by us to sit on the curb next to DS8 and DS1 (at the time) but then their parents started to movie forward too. DW and I both told them to stop crowding as they were ramming their stroller wheel into not only my heel, but DS1's rear end.

Other than that. We LOVED the parade.

That's awful! I will let children through, because if it were my kids, I would hope someone would do the same for me (but understand if they didn't).

creativeamanda

02-27-2010, 10:30 PM

Before I go on to Holiday Wishes, I have to first go back to the Spectromagic Parade and share a couple of pictures I didn't notice on my original photobucket upload.

Cinderella and Prince Charming

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0191.jpg

Catching their float as it changed to white lights.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0194-1.jpg

My favorite dwarf: Dopey. He alone rides a float while the others have to walk.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0206.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0208.jpg

A few minutes after Spectro was over, Wishes began. I did not move closer to the castle, because I wanted a wider angle shot for these pictures.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0223.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0229.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0248.jpg

I think my tripod was beginning it's last legs here, because the shots are all tilted slightly. My new tripod has a level on it.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0286.jpg

These were cute--during the Nutcracker part of Holiday Wishes

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0305.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0313.jpg

My favorite pictures of the fireworks for that night.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0290.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0291.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0299-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0336.jpg

After the fireworks were over, I took some photopass pictures and then thise one of the castle.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0355.jpg

I rode several rides, but I did not take many pictures. This is yet again, one of the times I felt it was best to pack away the camera. I did, however, feel this was too good to forget. It was 1:30am on the EMH night. How does the park look then?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0418.jpg

How's that for crowds? Remember, this was the Sunday before Christmas.

EMH was definitely worth it this night, without a doubt!

hucifer

03-01-2010, 08:08 AM

OMG, Amanda. You really take beautiful pictures. My nighttime pics never come out like that.

creativeamanda

03-06-2010, 12:49 AM

OMG, Amanda. You really take beautiful pictures. My nighttime pics never come out like that.

Thanks! I'm uber excited about my May/June trip ones, as I got a new lens for my camera today (uh, yesterday) :banana: I also got some digital photography books to help me out.

creativeamanda

03-06-2010, 01:10 AM

I've admitted it several times and will do so again--I'm a shopoholic. That should come as to no surprise to most of my DIS buddies. But I'll let you all in on another secret: I also like to stay up late and sleep in.

Call it a secret indulgence. Problem is, I tend to stay up late on a work night, when I can't sleep in next day. :confused3 Oh well, no matter tonight, eh?

When I last left you all, I was leaving Magic Kingdom. Looking at my notes, it was 1:30 am or thereabouts. This is one of the few times in my life where I got to the room, changed into pjs, and turned off the alarm clock.

Only to receive an 8am wakeup call. "Your kids are all up. Thought you'd want to be, as well." :headache:

6 hours sleep? Not so bad. I got up, showered, got dressed and headed to the boat dock to go to Downtown Disney. I was secrelty kind of glad that he woke me up, because I knew I needed to get to the World of Disney store before 11am to use my 20% off coupon I got for using the dining plan for a CS meal.

I dropped some money off at the WOD store, and headed to my new favorite CS location:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0001.jpg

I've said before that I was sort of skeptical about a sandwich place. This place was beyond awesome and I will definitely be back again sometime!

After wolfing down a sandwich (my first meal of the day), I took a couple of pictures of the Christmas tree between Earl of Sandwich and the Once Upon a Toy store:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0005-1.jpg
(was not carrying the tripod, so I'm certain that was me leaning, not the tripod. . .perhaps I have one leg taller than the other, lol)

I love the detail here on this tree. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0007-3.jpg

After looking at the tree, I went into the Once Upon a Toy store, because I was interested in the whole "make your own Pony and Mr. Potato Head". This is definitely a trip for June for the kids--my youngest loves My Little Pony!

I love the detail Disney goes into just for the doorways to stores!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0008-2.jpg

Mr. Potato Head. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0010-2.jpg

I actually spent a great deal of money here, because this is where I found the Spectromagic and Wishes cds, as well as a Disney Parks Chirstmas CD.

Next thing I knew, I was taking the boat back.

Apparently now you can take a hot air balloon in Downtown Disney to look over property. I think it just raises up and goes back down. Remember me and heights. I didn't even check out the price. But here it is from the boat.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0013-2.jpg

Returning to POFQ:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0031.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0038-1.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0285.jpg

I'm thinking I took a nap somewhere in here, because my notes between returning are devoid of information, but I do find myself in the World Showcase that evening, yet I honestly don't know what I did. Except for, of course, a couple (very few) pictures of the WS, and a picture of school bread and champagne. I know I left through the World Showcase area, though, as I have a receipt for that gift shop.

Either way, various pictures (I honestly must have been exhausted--my notes are almost nonexistant other than dining, lol)

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0287.jpg

I remember seeing this, and thinking my oldest would enjoy it.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0289.jpg

Oh, Christmas tree, O Christmas tree. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0293.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0294.jpg

This is the one at the entrance to the World Showcase.

Looking back towards Spaceship Earth from the World Showcase:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0297.jpg

LegoMom3

03-06-2010, 07:40 AM

Your Spectro pictures are FANTASTIC!!!!!!! I have yet to use my current camera on that parade but I'm hoping to achieve similar results. Although I am not brave enough to be at the curb....:scared: I like to go up on the train station balcony.

And you're killing me with the POFQ pics!!!:sad1: Gorgeous....*sigh* I actually thought - for one very brief and fleeting moment!! - about pricing out that resort for my solo trip (it would be 35% off). But I quickly dismissed it because a) I've already made several changes and my Dreams agent would likely "dis-agent" me! and b) Port Orleans is our family resort and I want this trip to be different. But it was sooooo tempting!:rolleyes:

100% with you on Earl of Sandwich. Matter of fact I'm trying to figure out how to work in a trip over to DTD, just to go there! To. Die. For.

.

TinkerbellLuvr7

03-06-2010, 09:53 AM

nice update!! I can't believe they had a Xmas CD at the toy store :( I swear I looked at like every few gift shops to see if they had one. The year before they did have one and Dbro told me he wanted it and it was too late, they were all gone and I haven't seen any since. I guess since we didn't go to DTD in Dec maybe that's why??? I wonder if it's on Itunes..hm..

OrangeJax

03-06-2010, 10:26 AM

Thanks for the update! Your pics make me wish it was Christmas (and I was at WDW) right now!

eandesmom

03-06-2010, 10:37 AM

You're kids are up, I thought you'd want to be as well.

:lmao:

It's not. Funny. Really. But it is.

A 20% off coupon by eating CS? Do share this magical strategy, I've never heard of such a thing but it is music to my ears.

I am intrigued by Earl, figure we will hit it one of these days, nice to hear that you liked it.

creativeamanda

03-06-2010, 10:59 AM

Your Spectro pictures are FANTASTIC!!!!!!! I have yet to use my current camera on that parade but I'm hoping to achieve similar results. Although I am not brave enough to be at the curb....:scared: I like to go up on the train station balcony.

I would have loved to go there, but the Christmas tree is in the way during that time. So I would have never seen Spectro floats until it was too late for a good shot. But I can see how that would be a great shot in normal circumstances. Hopefully there are 2 Spectros one night I'm there so I can do both!

And you're killing me with the POFQ pics!!!:sad1: Gorgeous....*sigh* I actually thought - for one very brief and fleeting moment!! - about pricing out that resort for my solo trip (it would be 35% off). But I quickly dismissed it because a) I've already made several changes and my Dreams agent would likely "dis-agent" me! and b) Port Orleans is our family resort and I want this trip to be different. But it was sooooo tempting!:rolleyes:

:rolleyes1 Wait until you see my POR pics.

100% with you on Earl of Sandwich. Matter of fact I'm trying to figure out how to work in a trip over to DTD, just to go there! To. Die. For.

.

I just have to find something my kids will eat that is on the menu. . .they aren't big sandwich eaters.

nice update!! I can't believe they had a Xmas CD at the toy store :( I swear I looked at like every few gift shops to see if they had one. The year before they did have one and Dbro told me he wanted it and it was too late, they were all gone and I haven't seen any since. I guess since we didn't go to DTD in Dec maybe that's why??? I wonder if it's on Itunes..hm..

I love it, but haven't listened to it since Christmas. There is one site, laughingplace, I think, that may have it on sale. It'll cost a bit more, though. Then again, I saw plenty of Halloween stuff there, too, so maybe it'll be there for your trip?

Thanks for the update! Your pics make me wish it was Christmas (and I was at WDW) right now!

:rotfl2: Me, too.

You're kids are up, I thought you'd want to be as well.

:lmao:

It's not. Funny. Really. But it is.

I know. :rolleyes: I did the same thing to him the next week, though.

Innocently, of course. :angel:

:rotfl2:

A 20% off coupon by eating CS? Do share this magical strategy, I've never heard of such a thing but it is music to my ears.

I am intrigued by Earl, figure we will hit it one of these days, nice to hear that you liked it.

I think this was something they were doing over Christmas to get people to shop in the stores. It was valid through I think Jan 4. It was only for 7 stores: The Emporium, Cornelius Coot's (MK), Mouse Gears (EP), Mickey's of Hollywood, Once Upon a Time (HS), Island Mercantile (AK), and World of Disney(DTD). I don't know if they are still doing it, but like I said, it was only for CS meals purchased using the dining plan and only on CS meals within the parks.

EOS is great, and I'm glad I did it. Word to the wise, though--get there early, because you're gonna have a long wait closer to lunchtime.

DisneyGuy758

03-06-2010, 03:57 PM

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/DSC_0418.jpg

Crop this one so it's symmetrical and it could be a postcard.

Back to reading!

honeydiane1953

03-06-2010, 04:01 PM

I heard that question more times than I care to mention last week. You left the kids in the room? You are here by yourself? Dining alone?

Proudly, I would just exclaim, YES! Now, for more information about my dining, see the link below for my dining report. But on to my trip report--

This is me, Amanda, a mother of three and a special education teacher/administrator. I love Disney, and if you read my PTR (link below), you'll see that dh LIKES Disney, but does not LOVE Disney. I've wanted to go to Disney by myself for a while now, and I am just blessed that I have a husband that did not mind being in the house with the kids alone for a week. Christmas week at that.

The picture was taken by my wonderful server at Boma.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0225.jpg

And my trip specifics:
WHEN: Christmas Week, 2009
WHERE: Port Orleans-French Quarter
TICKETS: Magic Your Way with Park Hoppers
DINING: Deluxe Dining Plan

Coming up. . .Table of Contents

AND THEN. . .
7am Arrival. . .Where will I go first?!?

I have planned two solo trips and my grown daughter cannot believe I want to go alone. So she and granddaughter are going with me next month. LOL I will looove them being there. Going SOLO would be great also.:woohoo::woohoo:

creativeamanda

03-06-2010, 06:25 PM

Crop this one so it's symmetrical and it could be a postcard.

Back to reading!

Wow. Thanks! :) This was such a great opportunity. I was glad to be there at that time.

I have planned two solo trips and my grown daughter cannot believe I want to go alone. So she and granddaughter are going with me next month. LOL I will looove them being there. Going SOLO would be great also.:woohoo::woohoo:

Solo is wonderful--your own rules. Your own time table!

creativeamanda

03-06-2010, 06:43 PM

It's All Coming Back to Me. . .

or at least exactly why I don't remember much about this trip in the World Showcase. I think it's really because I was shopping for the little Mickey Head Pins with each country's flag on it. Looking back in my receipts, that was what it looks like. Either way, I saw something I've never seen before.

Did you know that the little wooden bridges in Epcot in the World SHowcase are draw bridges?

I know now.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0327.jpg

As all of us were crossing at the same time, the Castmember said, "Get used to this--it's what we'll look like New Year's Day."

I commented back to him, "Good thing I go home Christmas eve."

One thing I do remember about this evening was waiting a long time for Maelstrom even with a fastpass--like 45 minutes.

The signs here were all wrong :

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0321.jpg

I also love the Trolls in the store, and there was a Norweigan Santa Claus. Again, It's all a little foggy, but I have pictorial evidence that this is where I was. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0324.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0318.jpg

In the China pavilion, I stopped specifically to get this photograph for Legomom:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0313.jpg

And I might as well even it all out:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0310.jpg

As I neared the Amercan Pavilion, I heard some of the Candlelight Processional:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0360.jpg

This must have been the 2nd showing, since it was dark and I had dinner reservations at 7:40.

Looking across at the Christmas tree and Spaceship Earth:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0363.jpg

In Morocco, I had to get a picture of my husband's camel.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0381.jpg

Why do I call it his?

He's getting a little friendly with it in October 2008!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Disney%202008/IMG_0690.jpg

I also thought this was funny--39 degree weather, and there's a sale on the bellydancing stuff in Morocco!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0382.jpg

So, after a stroll through the first half, I took the boat over to my ADR--Flying Fish at the Boardwalk. I loved this ride, and it's definitely one I'll do with the kids in June to go to the Yachtsman. . .we can stand a few extra minutes on the boat (And yes, I know it'll be quicker to walk, lol)

Coming up, Boardwalk, Dinner, and another late night?

lovesdumbo

03-07-2010, 07:48 AM

Enjoying your TR! Someday I will do a solo trip. My DH isn't the Dsiney fanatic that I am so while we tend to go once a year as a family I also go with my children (DD-10, DS-9, DD-7) one at a time. Those one on one trips are wonderful! I think I would really enjoy a solo trip too.

Are the models at MoDA new?? I don't remember seeing those. They're beautiful!
.
I think those are from One Man's Dream not MoDA.

This site: http://www.lensrentals.com/ is relatively inexpensive with their lens rentals. I intend to rent this one: http://www.lensrentals.com/rent/nikon-18-200mm-f3.5-5.6g-af-s-vr-ii/for-nikon for June. Another place I've looked at is www.borrowlenses.com.
I might have to try this someday too! I have that 18-200 lens-it is great! I keep it on nearly all the time. I do get a shadow when I try to use it with the built in flash. The only other lens I have is a 35mm. I would love another lens or 2 or 3....but I don't want to pay for them and I don't think I want to lug them around.:laughing:

Thanks! I'm uber excited about my May/June trip ones, as I got a new lens for my camera today (uh, yesterday) :banana: I also got some digital photography books to help me out.
What lens did you buy?

Off to go read your PTR for May/June.

creativeamanda

03-07-2010, 07:53 AM

Enjoying your TR! Someday I will do a solo trip. My DH isn't the Dsiney fanatic that I am so while we tend to go once a year as a family I also go with my children (DD-10, DS-9, DD-7) one at a time. Those one on one trips are wonderful! I think I would really enjoy a solo trip too.

I think those are from One Man's Dream not MoDA.

:headache: You're right!

I might have to try this someday too! I have that 18-200 lens-it is great! I keep it on nearly all the time. I do get a shadow when I try to use it with the built in flash. The only other lens I have is a 35mm. I would love another lens or 2 or 3....but I don't want to pay for them and I don't think I want to lug them around.:laughing:

What lens did you buy?

Off to go read your PTR for May/June.

LoL, I ended up buying the lens I wanted to rent--the 18-200mm. I might rent the 50mm or the 35mm in June--definitely will rent a flash.

You should really do a solo trip--I'm thinking of one for next summer (2011).

lovesdumbo

03-07-2010, 08:29 AM

:headache: You're right!

LoL, I ended up buying the lens I wanted to rent--the 18-200mm. I might rent the 50mm or the 35mm in June--definitely will rent a flash.

You should really do a solo trip--I'm thinking of one for next summer (2011).

One Man's Dream is my DS's favorite thing at WDW. I'm thinking he's going to my Disney fanatic. I tell him I've already brought him to WDW 12 times-he's going to have to bring me when he's an adult.:lmao: He was so mad at DD & I when we didn't go there on her 7th birthday trip.:rolleyes1

You're going to LOVE that lens!!! You might as well sell your other lenses because I don't think you'll ever use them again.

I'm planning at least an adult only trip for my birthday next year (a BIG one :scared1:). It won't be with DH though-have to go with someone who likes Disney.:laughing: If I can't find anyone to go with me I think I'll go alone.

TarzansKat

03-07-2010, 10:10 AM

I won't lie. I would have been tempted by the belly dancer scarves. :lmao:

I've actually seen the bridges in Epcot up before, they have to do that when they bring out certain barges for Illuminations. :thumbsup2

creativeamanda

03-07-2010, 10:18 AM

I won't lie. I would have been tempted by the belly dancer scarves. :lmao:

When I showed dh this morning, he asked me why I didn't get them. Said belly dancing is great exercise. :rolleyes1

I've actually seen the bridges in Epcot up before, they have to do that when they bring out certain barges for Illuminations. :thumbsup2

It was really cool.

creativeamanda

03-07-2010, 10:20 AM

One Man's Dream is my DS's favorite thing at WDW. I'm thinking he's going to my Disney fanatic. I tell him I've already brought him to WDW 12 times-he's going to have to bring me when he's an adult.:lmao: He was so mad at DD & I when we didn't go there on her 7th birthday trip.:rolleyes1

You're going to LOVE that lens!!! You might as well sell your other lenses because I don't think you'll ever use them again.

I'm planning at least an adult only trip for my birthday next year (a BIG one :scared1:). It won't be with DH though-have to go with someone who likes Disney.:laughing: If I can't find anyone to go with me I think I'll go alone.

I am already loving the lens. I am actually thinking of ebaying the others to get the SB 600. But then again, I do like waling around with the kit lens from time to time, just because it's lighter.

My oldest is a Disney fanatic. Is it cool or what that our kids are the same age?!?

LegoMom3

03-07-2010, 10:22 AM

Ok. I will allow you the pink monkey.

BUT THAT'S IT!!!

:rotfl2:

It actually reminds me of a guy I dated in high school.....

.

creativeamanda

03-07-2010, 10:24 AM

Ok. I will allow you the pink monkey.

BUT THAT'S IT!!!

:rotfl2:

It actually reminds me of a guy I dated in high school.....

.

Actually looking at it today, he looks a little frightening. Maybe I've had too much caffeine. :rolleyes1

And you dated a pink monkey in high school? :scared1:

Oh, tag fairy!

lovesdumbo

03-07-2010, 03:05 PM

I am already loving the lens. I am actually thinking of ebaying the others to get the SB 600. But then again, I do like waling around with the kit lens from time to time, just because it's lighter.

My oldest is a Disney fanatic. Is it cool or what that our kids are the same age?!?
And cool that we both have girl/boy/girl.:thumbsup2

The only negative about that lens is that it does have a tendency to slide open. But I've never used any other zoom lens on this camera to see if that happens with others too.

creativeamanda

03-07-2010, 04:59 PM

And cool that we both have girl/boy/girl.:thumbsup2

The only negative about that lens is that it does have a tendency to slide open. But I've never used any other zoom lens on this camera to see if that happens with others too.

Creeping lenses seem to be a problem with that size. Does yours have a lock on it? Mine does--when the new 18-200mm lens came out this fall, it was supposed to be better about creeping. We shall see. The 55-200mm did the same thing.

That is cool about the kids. My son wishes he had a brother, though.

lovesdumbo

03-07-2010, 05:51 PM

Creeping lenses seem to be a problem with that size. Does yours have a lock on it? Mine does--when the new 18-200mm lens came out this fall, it was supposed to be better about creeping. We shall see. The 55-200mm did the same thing.

That is cool about the kids. My son wishes he had a brother, though.
They have a lock now? I need a new lens!!!:laughing:

My DS has his tomboy little sister but the girls still gang up on him though. He'll have a great time with me when just the 2 of us go in May.

Googelibear

03-07-2010, 09:36 PM

And my trip specifics:
WHEN: Christmas Week, 2009
WHERE: Port Orleans-French Quarter
TICKETS: Magic Your Way with Park Hoppers
DINING: Deluxe Dining Plan

Coming up. . .Table of Contents

AND THEN. . .
7am Arrival. . .Where will I go first?!?
I am so glad that I have found your solo report. For various reasons, I will be by myself at WDW in November and I am not quite sure that I will like that. So I am anxiously going to read your report :thumbsup2

stopher1

03-08-2010, 07:56 AM

Did you know that the little wooden bridges in Epcot in the World SHowcase are draw bridges?

I know now.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/IMG_0327.jpg

I also love the Trolls in the store, and there was a Norweigan Santa Claus.

We got stopped in that exact spot last year while there. If you take a look at Google earth you can see the water storage area for the barges back behind the Outpost area between China & Germany where they keep the Illuminations barges.

I love the trolls. That's a family favorite photo spot. We have to have one there with the kids each trip.

More great updates and pics BTW! :thumbsup2

TarzansKat

03-08-2010, 08:49 AM

When I showed dh this morning, he asked me why I didn't get them. Said belly dancing is great exercise. :rolleyes1

ahem...

I may have heard something to that effect. ;)

hucifer

03-08-2010, 01:26 PM

I love the picture of your husband with the camel! WHAT is he doing with it??? Getting some camel lovin'? :lmao:

Okay, so I never knew it was a drawbridge either. Boy, the things I learn when I read TRs.

Hooray! You're eating at the Flying Fish! I had the most AMAZING meal there, OMG. One of my favorites...and I didn't even have fish that night.

praisehisname

03-12-2010, 07:45 AM

I love your Spectro pictures; they are so beautiful! Looking forward to hearing about your Flying Fish dinner; every review I have seen has been great!

creativeamanda

03-22-2010, 10:55 AM

They have a lock now? I need a new lens!!!:laughing:

My DS has his tomboy little sister but the girls still gang up on him though. He'll have a great time with me when just the 2 of us go in May.

One day I'm going to take just my son. He will love it.

I am so glad that I have found your solo report. For various reasons, I will be by myself at WDW in November and I am not quite sure that I will like that. So I am anxiously going to read your report :thumbsup2

It's great--making your own schedule and changing whenever you need to is the best part.

We got stopped in that exact spot last year while there. If you take a look at Google earth you can see the water storage area for the barges back behind the Outpost area between China & Germany where they keep the Illuminations barges.

I love the trolls. That's a family favorite photo spot. We have to have one there with the kids each trip.

More great updates and pics BTW! :thumbsup2

I'll have to check that out in Google eart.

We are planning on more troll stops in June. We expect to spend a lot of time in the World Showcase.

ahem...

I may have heard something to that effect. ;)

:rotfl2:

I love the picture of your husband with the camel! WHAT is he doing with it??? Getting some camel lovin'? :lmao:

Okay, so I never knew it was a drawbridge either. Boy, the things I learn when I read TRs.

Hooray! You're eating at the Flying Fish! I had the most AMAZING meal there, OMG. One of my favorites...and I didn't even have fish that night.

I'll plug in my dining review of Flying Fish.

As for dh and the camel--I don't know. But I like to use it as blackmail from time to time. :rolleyes1

I love your Spectro pictures; they are so beautiful! Looking forward to hearing about your Flying Fish dinner; every review I have seen has been great!

:rolleyes1 We'll talk about Flying Fish.

disneyshakeygirl

03-23-2010, 06:24 PM

I love the photos from Epcot! I'm getting more and more excited to go!

creativeamanda

03-31-2010, 07:15 PM

I love the photos from Epcot! I'm getting more and more excited to go!

Aww, thanks!

creativeamanda

03-31-2010, 07:33 PM

So, I had my update almost done. Then I hit the wrong button and POOF! It was gone.

I thought, however, while I had your attention, I could update with what I thought of Flying Fish. This is a copy of what I said in my Dining TR, but something is better than nothing, eh?

As I got over to the Boardwalk, I realized I was really early. And really tired. Part of me would have liked to just go back to the room, but I walked around the Boardwalk for a while, finally stopping early at the Flying Fish to rest for a moment.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0405.jpg

I wasn't worried about being seated. I wanted to rest.

Unlike the staff at Yacthsman, however, they did not want me to wait, and so they asked me if I would mind sitting at the chef's bar.

Uhm, no! Of course, I expected Gordon Ramsay to be back there dropping some choice words.

Instead, I saw this from my table:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0425.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0427.jpg

The decor of the restaurant:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0428.jpg

Watching this was an enjoyable experience that I will never forget!

For my appetizer, I had

Our Signature Flying Fish Cafe "Crispy Maine Coast Jonah Crab Cake" - savory vegetable slaw, roasted red pepper coulis, ancho chili remoulade $16.00

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0426.jpg

Okay, seriously, don't tell them at Narcoossee's, but this was the best crab cake ever! The roasted red pepper and remoulade gave it a slight kick that being from the South, I found delightful! I've always said that we should use more of the spices in our cabinets. This was simply heavenly!

For my entre--Oak-grilled Maine Diver Scallops -- pumpkin, sage, mascarpone and pecorino-laced risotto di carnarolli, proscuitto di parma cracklins $34.00

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0429.jpg

I am hard to please when it comes to scallops, living near Myrtle Beach and eating my fair shre of them. These were cooked perfectly, and the risotto was the best I have ever had.

By the time dessert came around, I wanted something really light. I had had that big sandwich and the school bread that day. I decided on the Trio of House-made Sorbets - lychee, raspberry and mango-orange with fresh berries and vanilla cookies $7.00. I had all along planned on the apple tart, but when it came to the end of the meal, I wanted something that did not weight like a ton of bricks.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/IMG_0430.jpg

Just what I wanted! It was light, refreshing, and would be something I'd really want during the summer months!

My servier there was really good. He did have a large party behind me and they took a great deal of his time. Had I been at a table, I would have probably been a little restless, but as it was, I was at the chef's table being thoroughly entertained.

But next time I'm there, I'm getting the New York Strip.

Overall:
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5
Service: 4 out of 5
Wait Time: 5 out of 5
Food Quality: 5 out of 5
Overall: 4.75 out of 5

Would I return here? Certainly! It's not currently on the ADR list for June, but I am always subject to change my mind, lol! I actually am contemplating adding it in for June.

Flying Fish is on my top 2 list for this trip.

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

04-01-2010, 09:13 AM

eandesmom

04-01-2010, 11:06 AM

Flying fish is high on my date night list! Not that I think we are going to have a date night this trip but that meal looks amazing!

hucifer

04-01-2010, 11:20 AM

I loooooooove the Flying Fish. Thanks for such a thorough review. Where was the pumpkin in your entree? In the risotto?

OMG, your food looked amazing. They really know how to cook there!

creativeamanda

04-01-2010, 11:58 AM

Hi!!!! We got super busy in our house for the past two months and it pulled me off of here. But, I am all caught up now! Your dining reviews of Narcoossee's and Flying Fish make me think I would really like to try them. We were going to go with the regular dining plan next trip, but we may have to go deluxe just to check out some of the sig. restaurants. The only one we have ever been to was Cali Grill. Anyway, I'll be trying to bring my TR back to life in the next few days if you want to come over!!

I would love to, let me know when you get it back going!

Narcoossee's and FF were wonderful, but now that I've done DxDP, I think I probably would have been better off doing the DDP and just paying oop for 2 or three meals. I seemed to cancel a few reservations in favor of going to a CS location. . .

Flying fish is high on my date night list! Not that I think we are going to have a date night this trip but that meal looks amazing!

It was awesome!

I loooooooove the Flying Fish. Thanks for such a thorough review. Where was the pumpkin in your entree? In the risotto?

OMG, your food looked amazing. They really know how to cook there!

I think it was pumpkin. I couldn't place it then, but thinking back, it is now!

It was an awesome meal--I'd do it again.

creativeamanda

04-03-2010, 07:17 PM

So, after dinner at Flying Fish, I decided to take the boat over to Hollywood Studios for Extra Magic Hours.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0439.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0442.jpg

I thought maybe I'd get a ride in at Toy Story Mania. Maybe not. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0466.jpg

Today I don't know why I did not just get in line. That's probably the lowest line since 9:15am all day that day, but I did not. I know before that, I saw Voyage of the Little Mermaid and found a family where the dad was taking a picture of the kids and wife. I offered to take a picture of all of them, since I was really just strolling through the park.

I think that was one of my favorite moments--the look of relief on the family's face.

I then went over to my mission--I really wanted to see the Osborne lights again. The night before when I was there, it was rainy and really, really crowded. In contrast, this night was not all that crowded. The "snow" was falling, and it was truly a magical experience.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0446.jpg

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http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0457.jpg

After spending a great amount of time there, and I think getting a ride in at Star Tours, I decided to leave. No way I was gonna ride this at night, but I thought it made for a great picture:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/2009%20Disney%20World%20Trip/Dec%2021/IMG_0472.jpg

Grateful for a bus ride back to the resort, it was one of those nights where I truly collapsed in the bed. After all, I had rope drop at Magic Kingdom to look forward to!

disneyshakeygirl

04-04-2010, 09:13 AM

The christmas lights at Hollywood Studios look so pretty! I've always wanted to go to Disney during the holiday season. Your meal at the Flying Fish looked really, really good!

bethko1

04-04-2010, 11:20 AM

WOW! I love your pictures!!:thumbsup2

hucifer

04-06-2010, 06:09 AM

I thought maybe I'd get a ride in at Toy Story Mania. Maybe not. . .
Isn't it ALWAYS like that? TSM is one seriously popular attraction.

I offered to take a picture of all of them, since I was really just strolling through the park.

I think that was one of my favorite moments--the look of relief on the family's face.
I did a lot of that during my solo trip, too. I loved to do it, but I noticed not one single person offered to reciprocate! Like, how many pictures of myself can I possibly take?

creativeamanda

04-07-2010, 07:01 AM

The christmas lights at Hollywood Studios look so pretty! I've always wanted to go to Disney during the holiday season. Your meal at the Flying Fish looked really, really good!

They are pretty. And Flying Fish was awesome!

You'll have to see DIsney at Christmas at least once. It's something to remember.

WOW! I love your pictures!!:thumbsup2

Thanks. And :welcome

Isn't it ALWAYS like that? TSM is one seriously popular attraction.

I know, but I must have been tired. 60 minutes at TSM is really nothing. . .

I did a lot of that during my solo trip, too. I loved to do it, but I noticed not one single person offered to reciprocate! Like, how many pictures of myself can I possibly take?

Now that you say that, you are right. I did have one family offer to take my picture at Coral Reef and my server at Boma. I was glad in the end I was doing Photopass. . .:rolleyes1

DisneyGuy758

04-07-2010, 07:23 AM

YAY! Updates!

Now only if I can find time to READ them.

hucifer

04-07-2010, 11:13 AM

I know, but I must have been tired. 60 minutes at TSM is really nothing. . .
It's all relative. :laughing:

Now that you say that, you are right. I did have one family offer to take my picture at Coral Reef and my server at Boma. I was glad in the end I was doing Photopass. . .:rolleyes1
I, on the other hand, did not do Photopass and I surely regret it. It's funny that you had the same experience. A solo person just doesn't have the capability to take a decent picture of him/herself, and it would have been nice to have been offered!

stopher1

04-07-2010, 11:39 AM

More great pics! Yay. I love the Osborne lights. It was so nice of the family to send them all to WDW instead of continuing to jam up their neighborhood. Now so many more people get to see then each year than having to go on over to Arkansas.

What a nice lady to help the family with their picture. :thumbsup2 I do that many, many times myself, and everyone generally seems so grateful.

raider97

04-07-2010, 11:49 AM

Just got caught up on your report! Great updates... Help me out what date are you on? I keep waiting to show up in your pictures. :) I need to get an update done today too... hopefully! Hope things are going well. I'm going to try and pop over to your summer TR too.

creativeamanda

04-07-2010, 01:07 PM

It's all relative. :laughing:

I, on the other hand, did not do Photopass and I surely regret it. It's funny that you had the same experience. A solo person just doesn't have the capability to take a decent picture of him/herself, and it would have been nice to have been offered!

Photopass and *gasp* photopass shares are great for that.

More great pics! Yay. I love the Osborne lights. It was so nice of the family to send them all to WDW instead of continuing to jam up their neighborhood. Now so many more people get to see then each year than having to go on over to Arkansas.

What a nice lady to help the family with their picture. :thumbsup2 I do that many, many times myself, and everyone generally seems so grateful.

What is it about Disney, though, that gives people the courage to walk up to total strangers and say, "You want me to hold your ridiculously expesive camera and take pictures?" and people not bat an eye. Never in a million years would I hand my camera over to someone at Myrtle Beach, lol!

The Osborne lights are absolutely beautiful and it's nice that they are now in a location where so many people can enjoy them.

Just got caught up on your report! Great updates... Help me out what date are you on? I keep waiting to show up in your pictures. :) I need to get an update done today too... hopefully! Hope things are going well. I'm going to try and pop over to your summer TR too.

I'm thinking I'm starting on Dec 22 next. I'll have to look back.

lovesdumbo

04-07-2010, 06:32 PM

creativeamanda

04-07-2010, 07:10 PM

LOVE your Flying Fish photos! I went there for the first time in December and would have to say it was our best meal! I am taking my DS in May. I bet he would love to sit where you did!

You sure had a nice low crowd night to see Osborne Lights. We were wall to wall people the night we went.:crowded:

For everyone on solo trips-I bet anyone you ask would be happy to take your photo. If you don't want to do that you can ask the photopass photographers to take a photo with your camera. I would still let them take photos on their cameras too even if you don't plan on buying them but they will also take photos on your camera. Most of the time the photos on my camera are much better. They set the resolution on their cameras way down.

I agree that they set the resolution too low with the photopass cameras. I think photopass is a good option, because many, many people want pictures of their whole family and it's usually only available with photopass.

There were wall to wall people the first time I went. I think while I was over there, there was a 2nd Fantasmic showing, which brought crowds down or perhaps I had it backwards and I went to TSM area after the Lights. Either way, I remember hearing the fireworks.

FLying Fish is awesome, and I think I will end up taking my 11yo there next summer. I thought of doing a trip with her in December, but I want a long trip, even if we have to stay value for it.

lovesdumbo

04-07-2010, 07:32 PM

I agree that they set the resolution too low with the photopass cameras. I think photopass is a good option, because many, many people want pictures of their whole family and it's usually only available with photopass.

There were wall to wall people the first time I went. I think while I was over there, there was a 2nd Fantasmic showing, which brought crowds down or perhaps I had it backwards and I went to TSM area after the Lights. Either way, I remember hearing the fireworks.

FLying Fish is awesome, and I think I will end up taking my 11yo there next summer. I thought of doing a trip with her in December, but I want a long trip, even if we have to stay value for it.

When I was there in January they were just rolling out the Nikon D90's to the photopass photographers-the same camera I have. I've been hearing from the photographers for a while that they were getting the D90s because everytime they would take a picture with my camera they would comment. So this one photographer had just been trained but still didn't have it yet said to me "we just have to do one thing....set this to L" Not really sure what the setting is because I always just shoot in the highest resolution possible but they had to set it to the lowest. My photos are about 5-6MB some over 7MB. The photopass pictures are about 1.5MB-some less than 1MB.

I do LOVE the photopass borders but I don't think I'll buy the CD anymore. I'll have them use my camera and maybe buy a few downloads but not the whole CD. I will say though that the photopass photographers at the deluxe resorts are really wonderful! The resorts that do the photo shoots take photos at night-you don't have to be staying there to have your photo taken. In January on my DD's birthday trip we stayed at AKL and we had our photo taken nearly every night and those pictures were worth the price of the CD.

I'm sure you'll have a great time with your DD! I actually like the value resorts but keep an eye on the seasons. We are taking a family trip this July-arriving 7/18 which is the start of value season at the deluxe resorts. Value season for value resorts (I think moderates too) doesn't start til mid August.

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

04-08-2010, 10:03 AM

You got some great pix of the lights!!! Great job!

creativeamanda

04-10-2010, 01:50 PM

YAY! Updates!

Now only if I can find time to READ them.

I totally missed you, dude. Sorry. Take your time. Aooarently, I'm taking mine, lol.

When I was there in January they were just rolling out the Nikon D90's to the photopass photographers-the same camera I have. I've been hearing from the photographers for a while that they were getting the D90s because everytime they would take a picture with my camera they would comment. So this one photographer had just been trained but still didn't have it yet said to me "we just have to do one thing....set this to L" Not really sure what the setting is because I always just shoot in the highest resolution possible but they had to set it to the lowest. My photos are about 5-6MB some over 7MB. The photopass pictures are about 1.5MB-some less than 1MB.

I do LOVE the photopass borders but I don't think I'll buy the CD anymore. I'll have them use my camera and maybe buy a few downloads but not the whole CD. I will say though that the photopass photographers at the deluxe resorts are really wonderful! The resorts that do the photo shoots take photos at night-you don't have to be staying there to have your photo taken. In January on my DD's birthday trip we stayed at AKL and we had our photo taken nearly every night and those pictures were worth the price of the CD.

I'm sure you'll have a great time with your DD! I actually like the value resorts but keep an eye on the seasons. We are taking a family trip this July-arriving 7/18 which is the start of value season at the deluxe resorts. Value season for value resorts (I think moderates too) doesn't start til mid August.

I don't think photopass is really worth it unless you do a share with some people. That's just me. Most of what I've been doing recently is digital, but I try to plan on 2-3-page scrapbook spreads for each trip and it's nice to have 1-2 photopass pictures to put in there.

I have at least a year to think of the mother-daughter trip. Part of me wants to go value, but part of me wants to try the Beach club. It all depends on whether or not I get National Board Certification, I think.

You got some great pix of the lights!!! Great job!

Thanks! :goodvibes That was my little point-and-shoot camera, but the trick I think is to turn the flash off. Sounds strange, but that is what's working for me right now.

creativeamanda

04-10-2010, 02:12 PM

I love Magic Kingdom. I love walking up to the gates. I love waiting to get in. I love rope drop. I love the mad rush down Main Street, USA. I love the park more than any other park.

Whenever I think I might like Epcot better, I go back to Magic Kingdom. And I fall in love again.

Tuesday morning found me all excited about going to the Magic Kingdom. I got up and went to the food court for these:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0001.jpg

Then, I moseyed over to the car, refillable mug in hand, to drive over to the TTC. I'm not one who usually likes to drive to Magic Kingdom, but in this case, I knew I would be moving a lot that day and wanted to be as mobile as possible. I also like driving when I have my refillable mug. I can finish it in the car and leave it there without having to lug it through the park.

So, I get to Magic Kingdom at 8:15 :rolleyes1 and I was up front for rope drop. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0006.jpg

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0036.jpg

I love Mickey in all his Winter Finest!

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0055.jpg

Now those of you who know mw know what I did at Magic Kingdom Rope Drop. I don't know why, nor do I think I ever will know why rope drop at the magic Kingdom tends to turn me into a blubbering crying fool, but it does. I was grateful for the sunglasses I was wearing to hide my tears, because I was truly losing it! I think I also realized my last day in the parks was the next day, and according to my PLANS, this was my last trip to MK. (Remember, though, how much I love the Magic Kingdom). I went into the park and instead of following the masses, I entered on the right side and then turned left to go onto the platform for the railroad.

This was an awesome vantage point to take pictures of the castle. And the tree, that was in the way of the castle. I made a mental note to go up here for my next trip to get a full photo of Main Street and the castle.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0058.jpg

Eventually, I went down, into the masses, which were becoming more and more insane every day. I'm thinking this day was probably close to a 10 on the crowd calendar. What do ya'll think?

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0074.jpg

Of course, I got to the edge of Main Street as much as possible to get a picture of the welcome wagon on the sidewalk. . .

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0077.jpg

I was not heading for Space Mountain that day (wise choice). I was heading for Fantasyland. And my first stop? Peter Pan's Flight, from where I took a picture of my daughter's least favorite ride:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0095.jpg

She's annoyed by the song, and so am I, but I feel like I have to ride it. Thank goodness I had already ridden it this trip and would not be subjecting myself to it.

From there, I headed to

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0105.jpg

I love this ride. I can quote most of it now, and I actually rode it two times in succession.

After that I went to

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and got a fastpass for

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I noticed it was 11am by this time. The large crowds were slowing me down, as well as me letting myslef get behind by stopping at the Railroad for a picture. I figured if I was going to get a jump on the lunch crowds, I better go ahead and pick someplace. I decided on this place because I had never been, it was close by, and I had a fastpass within the next 45 minutes.

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This was a great lunch. I loved the do-it-yourself ordering, and I ate before the crowd really set in. By the time I was finished, I still had time before Splash, so I went onto
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Believe me--it had a 1-hour wait! By the time I got away, it was 12:30. I used my fastpass at Splash, and walked around to take a couple of pictures of the castle, including these:

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Remember, I thought I was going to be leaving MK for no further trips this vacation, so I thought I had to go to Main Street Bakery for one of these:

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Then, I settled on Main Street for the Christmas Parade. It was around 2pm by this time and I was tired. My plans were to go to Animal Kingdom and skip the parade, but I just wanted to sit. Because it was so early, I was right on the curb, so I ate my sandwich there and waited.

Coming up. . .the Christmas parade.

creativeamanda

04-10-2010, 02:42 PM

After sitting and slowly eating my ice cream sandwich (which I never finished, but I'm sure I would have had it not been such a short time since lunch), it was time for the parade. It started with the Main Street Marching Band, which was really exciting!

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Then it was time for the parade, which, incidentally, is the same as the parade for MVMCP:

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This float smelled like peppermint!!!

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And they smelled like Gingerbread!

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Before long, it was time for my favorite part--the Toyland Toy soldiers!

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And then it was time for the reindeer and the Big Jolly ole Elf himself!

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At the end, I was ready to go over to Animal Kingdom. Even though I had driven, I decided to take the bus over. I wish I had just walked over to the Contemporary to catch the bus, but I went to the TTC. Word to the wise--it's a long walk and wait over there, and you are better off walking over to CR and taking the bus if you are inclined to do so.

lovesdumbo

04-10-2010, 05:42 PM

It all depends on whether or not I get National Board Certification, I think.:wizard:Good luck with that!!!

LOVE your photos! Love Christmas Mickey at opening! I've never seen him. I honestly can't remember if we ever did rope drop at MK when I was there in December. I think the one day we went to MK in the morning we had an early breakfast at CP so we did see the opening ceremony. I thought DD & I made it for opening on our last day but I'm not sure. I'll have to go look at photos.

Love your parade photos too. I've seen the parade at MVMCP but have never seen it during the day.

I always tell myself to make a point to take photos from the train station but then never seem to remember. I'll have to see if I can remember in May.

LegoMom3

04-11-2010, 07:55 AM

Now THAT was an ice-cream sandwich!!!!:thumbsup2

I'm glad you liked your lunch at Pecos Bill; I'm looking forward to trying it! And I, too, feel "obligated" to ride IASW.:confused3 Although I don't really hate it, it's just not something you say "Oooh, I can't wait to ride that!", but you still feel you should. I do really like the Polynesian/Hawaiian part, though, where you get that little drum-beat in the music track!

Your parade pics are great! And how cool that they are "scented!!!"...only at Disney, I'm tellin' ya. I give you a lot of credit for dealing with those crowds, though. I really don't know if I could do it. :cool2:

.

TarzansKat

04-11-2010, 09:20 AM

Awesome updates. I love Mickey in his winter finest. He looks so dapper!

As usual, I have focused on your photos of food. The scallops at Flying Fish looked sooo yummy. And OMG over the beignets and ice cream cookie sandwich. Yum, yum, yum!

creativeamanda

04-11-2010, 09:51 AM

:wizard:Good luck with that!!!

LOVE your photos! Love Christmas Mickey at opening! I've never seen him. I honestly can't remember if we ever did rope drop at MK when I was there in December. I think the one day we went to MK in the morning we had an early breakfast at CP so we did see the opening ceremony. I thought DD & I made it for opening on our last day but I'm not sure. I'll have to go look at photos.

Love your parade photos too. I've seen the parade at MVMCP but have never seen it during the day.

I always tell myself to make a point to take photos from the train station but then never seem to remember. I'll have to see if I can remember in May.

I wish only that the tree could have moved for me, lol.

Not that the tree would go away, just that it could have moved about 1 foot and then moved back. Maybe if Tinkerbell would sprinkle some Pixie dust. . .

Now THAT was an ice-cream sandwich!!!!:thumbsup2

I'm glad you liked your lunch at Pecos Bill; I'm looking forward to trying it! And I, too, feel "obligated" to ride IASW.:confused3 Although I don't really hate it, it's just not something you say "Oooh, I can't wait to ride that!", but you still feel you should. I do really like the Polynesian/Hawaiian part, though, where you get that little drum-beat in the music track!

Your parade pics are great! And how cool that they are "scented!!!"...only at Disney, I'm tellin' ya. I give you a lot of credit for dealing with those crowds, though. I really don't know if I could do it. :cool2:

.

I got a cheeseburger, but the toppings bar at Pecos Bill's made lunch so worth it. And that ice cream sandwich. . .I can't wait to get another one in a few weeks (7!).

I was amazed that the floats were scented. Only at DIsney, though.

Crowds? What crowds? :rotfl2: Really, July 4th week was better even with the heat as far as crowds go.

Awesome updates. I love Mickey in his winter finest. He looks so dapper!

As usual, I have focused on your photos of food. The scallops at Flying Fish looked sooo yummy. And OMG over the beignets and ice cream cookie sandwich. Yum, yum, yum!

Of course you'd be looking at the food. I can't wait for an ice cream sandwich and beignets!

disneyshakeygirl

04-11-2010, 10:44 AM

I didn't know the floats smelt like something! That is amazing!!!!

creativeamanda

04-11-2010, 10:47 AM

I didn't know the floats smelt like something! That is amazing!!!!

Where I was, right there on the curb, it was unmistakeable. And yes, amazing!

Grammie3

04-11-2010, 08:10 PM

stopher1

04-11-2010, 09:25 PM

More amazingly good photos! I'm loving them. And those ice cream sandwiches - I'd love to have one right now. Yummy. I've started making those at home whenever my DW brings home extra cookies from Paradise Bakery - not quite WDW's - but still very, very good!

LOVEMY3KIDDOS

04-12-2010, 09:19 AM

Ummmm....that ice cream sandwich....yummmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!

I have never had one of those, but I think it will be a must next trip!!!

GaRain

04-13-2010, 10:52 AM

Truly enjoying your TR so far!~
Amazing what you can do as a solo traveler!
I just HAVE to go back this Christmas time to see the castle with those lights - amazing!
Such wonderful pictures!!!
Can't wait for more!

Lara

hucifer

04-13-2010, 12:30 PM

Thank goodness I just had lunch because between the beignets and the ice cream sandwich, I'm almost getting hungry again. They both looked so good, OMG.

I think my two favorite attractions at MK are Peter Pan's Flight and the Haunted Mansion. They are classics to me, and bring me back to childhood every time I ride them.

creativeamanda

04-15-2010, 03:48 PM

Your trip report caught my attention and I had to read the whole way thru-I am planning a solo trip 9/27-10/6. This is a two fold trip for me, last October I went with my sister and ended up with a really bad knee injury. I had been having a problem with that knee for a couple of months and well while unpacking the car when I turned or twisted wrong out it went. We made the best of things but it was not the perfect WDW trip I had planned for us.:headache:

So, now that I had surgery and my knee is almost 100% better, I am still doing strength exercises for it, and increasing my walking pace even adding in a slight jog now and then. When a class that I need to take for work showed up in my e-mail, held in the DTD area at one of the hotels, off site. I was excited to check things our. So, it looks like I will be there in class 9/28-9/30, why not extend and make this a re-do for last October? That is exactly what I am doing too!:cool1:

You inspired me and I am going to look and see if I can upgrade to POFQ, I am booked at POP, but it sounds like the POFQ would suit me more solo. I already have my ADR's made and my itinerary planned out. I will be driving since I live an 8 hour drive away, and like you I will have a hard time sleeping the night before.:rolleyes1

Cindy

It sounds like you deserve your trip.

I have to say that I really enjoyed staying at POFQ and I think it's going to be me go-to resort for solo trips. And this definitely will not be the last!

More amazingly good photos! I'm loving them. And those ice cream sandwiches - I'd love to have one right now. Yummy. I've started making those at home whenever my DW brings home extra cookies from Paradise Bakery - not quite WDW's - but still very, very good!

I am looking forward to another ice cream sandwich in May. I think the heat of May/June will be perfect for one of those babies!

Ummmm....that ice cream sandwich....yummmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!

I have never had one of those, but I think it will be a must next trip!!!

You have to. YOu really, really do!

Truly enjoying your TR so far!~
Amazing what you can do as a solo traveler!
I just HAVE to go back this Christmas time to see the castle with those lights - amazing!
Such wonderful pictures!!!
Can't wait for more!

Lara

My camera is my pride and joy of items that I own. The lights on the castle are amazing. I will return another Christmas--not this coming one, but one day.

Thank goodness I just had lunch because between the beignets and the ice cream sandwich, I'm almost getting hungry again. They both looked so good, OMG.

I think my two favorite attractions at MK are Peter Pan's Flight and the Haunted Mansion. They are classics to me, and bring me back to childhood every time I ride them.

:rotfl: I could go for a beignet and an ice cream sandwich right now.

I absolutely love HM and PP. To me, they are what Magic Kingdom is about--wonderfully creative rides perfect for everyone in the family. Ones that you see something new every time you ride them.

lovesdumbo

04-15-2010, 03:59 PM

:rotfl: I could go for a beignet and an ice cream sandwich right now.

This reminded me of the time I got a small order of beignets and a dish of vanilla ice cream at POFQ. I opened up the beignets and stuffed them with ice cream.:rotfl: I did have someone help me eat them.

creativeamanda

04-15-2010, 04:08 PM

The last time I left you all, I was hopping over to Animal Kingdom for evening Extra Magic Hours.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0478.jpg

The only thing I really do not like about Animal Kingdom is how ridiculously far the bus stop is from the park entrance. I can't believe it is so far away! Really!

As I walked up, though, I was glad to be there:

The Christmas tree just seems so homey and "wild"

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0482.jpg

Well, with the exception of Piglet on a box, lol:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0486.jpg

I guess he was just hangin' out for Santa to visit!

I also think the entrane of Animal Kingdom is creative--it puts you instantly in the mood to hear and experience the animals all around you:

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The first thing I did was have to wait for the Jingle Jungle Parade to get by. Apparently, I times everything good, because the parade was just starting as I walked up. Even though I did not have a great spot, I was able to see the parade go by.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0523.jpg

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I'd never seen the evening parade, so that was nice. By the time the parade had gone by, I went over to Flame Tree Barbeque for dinner. It was only 4:30 or so, but I was really thirsty and I knew I would not eat again that night. I still had plans to go back to Magic Kingdom, so I thought this was good of time as any.

From my seat at Flame Tree:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0595.jpg

I then went over to my favorite ride and the sole reason for me to go to Animal Kingdom that night: the opportunity to ride Expedition Everest in the dark!

In line:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0614.jpg

I used the Single Rider line 4 times, then decided I wanted to look at the Tree of Life. I strolled over there--the park was really beginning to empty out, and it made for a pleasant walk:

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http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0694.jpg

:cloud9: Beautiful.

After this, I went back out of Animal Kingdom and ran (literally) to catch the bus back to Magic Kingdom. I took the boat back over to the Magic Kingdom, and as I approached, I had a great photo opportunity:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0718.jpg

If you have ever been to Magic Kingdom this time of year, you know it's not common to get that photo with no one in the picture!

Entering the Magic Kingdom:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0728.jpg

I walked around the castle and rode some rides in Fantasyland before I got this:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0770.jpg

Then, I rode Pirates again, which had no line. One person on my boat was taking flash pictures. :sad2: I did not expect this, but what she was doing sent me straight into a migraine. :sick: Having had these enough times, I knew that if I got some caffeine I would be fine for a while. I went to a coffe stand to get some coffee. They did not have any made, so they gave me a cookie once they got it made.

I was still in no shape to leave the park, so I found a bench on the walkway in front of Crystal Palace that joins Adventureland with the hub near the bridge to Liberty Square. From there, I watched Spectromagic cross the bridge, which was an interesting vantage point. I also watched Holiday Wishes. I did not have my tripod, so these are not great:

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http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0870.jpg

I walked around the hub and got this pictures after the fireworks were over:

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u256/creativeamanda/Food%20Porn%202009/Disney%202009%20Trip%20Report/Dec%2022/DSC_0896.jpg

THe headache had eased off, and I was on the way back to the car. I drove home slowly, as I was concerned about my head and the eyesight. I collapsed into bed, knowing I had ropedrop to make the next morning.

What a bad way to end my last day at Magic Kingdom, I thought.

But I already had a plan. . .