Celebrating Megan's Kidneys -update 4/30, pg10

[erika412]

Hello! And welcome to our trip report. We are middlepat and erika412 and we’ll be writing this report together. Erika has a PTR here if you want to read that, but it isn’t nearly as exciting as our TR.

We had a few other people join us for this trip—namely our kids! Mary is 6, Shannon is 5 and Megan is 2. Yup, that’s right. Three girls. Middlepat is way outnumbered! Mary and Shannon have been to Walt Disney World twice already, but this was Megan’s first trip. It was a special trip in another way too.

The purpose of this trip was to celebrate Megan's kidneys. It sounds kind of a strange reason for a trip, but Megan had kidney failure last year in December 08 (post infectious nephritis) when she was only 15 months old. She ended up on dialysis and they were talking transplant. She was in and out of the hospital and I (Erika) spent all the time she was in with her. Mary and Shannon knew where I was, but obviously also had their lives uprooted. Megan miraculously turned around and we decided that we wanted to have some alone time with our family once she got healthy enough to travel. She is still on various medications- this is a long battle for her which may ultimately still end up with a transplant, but is doing so well compared to where she was last December. (if you're curious more about the nitty gritty details of what she went through, she has a carepage at https://www.carepages.com/carepages/Megan_Newell Megan also has some food allergies (dairy, soy, and egg) and we were a little nervous about not being in control of her food.

Obviously our one and only choice was to go to Disney World. We love Disney World. Yes, we are one of those families. Perhaps you might know another one or two? We had the task of finding a room for 5 this time. We looked at all the options and decided on the Polynesian. We also decided to drive for the first time from Chicago. I was so excited for the Poly and even the drive because the girls are pretty good girls when it comes to car rides.

Here’s a shirt I had made for the trip:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0755.jpg

So, November 6th, the girls went to school as normal in the morning. They knew we were going to be leaving before lunchtime. What Shannon didn't know was that middlepat was going to be the Mystery Reader that day. But before that we packed up the van. I had read a suggestion here of using storage boxes instead of luggage for a long car trip so we decided to do it. It ended up working out extremely well.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0771.jpg

Shannon's teacher allowed Middlepat to come in early and read to the class. It is a huge deal for the kids and when the school secretary intercoms down to the classroom that they have a mystery reader, you can hear the screams of excitement in the school office. To be honest, even though they are just kindergartners, it can be a little intimidating! Middlepat brought a Dr. Suess book which Shannon ended up taking from him and reading to the class.

After that, it was time to come home, change out of uniforms and a bathroom break and hit the road.

The exact time we left:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0767.jpg

The girls have no idea how long they will really be in the car:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0769.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0768.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0770.jpg

Coming up next-- More of the drive.

[kellyw8863]

Hi Erika - I thought I recognized your username, but didn't know you were on here (I'm kellyw from the FP). We're in the process of planning a Make a Wish trip for my youngest, Alison, so I've spent a lot of time lately perusing the PTRs and TRs. At any rate, I just thought I'd say hello. Great start to your TR. I think it's so neat that middlepat got to be the mystery reader for your departure day! Your girls are adorable, and I love the t-shirt. Looking forward to reading more of your TR!

Kelly

[erika412]

Hi Kelly! Good to "see" you here. I just read through your MAW PTR. Ali and Maya are adorable. I think it is amazing that you and Gabriel found each other too. I've been a member here for a while, mostly a lurker until our last trip when I became more active. I'm journaling our trip on the SE too, but getting a little more specific here. Plus, DH will be part of this TR too.

[FreezinRafiki]

Yay!! Disney World and Kidneys - 2 of my favorite things now rolled into one! Just add a dog and I'd be in heaven. :dogdance: (Or is that a still a sore subject? :rotfl2:)

Anyway, nice start to the TR! Can't wait to read more!

[DisneyDaddy-O]

popcorn::

I'm here and ready to read, great to hear Megan is doing better, I can't think of a better place to celebrate.

I never would thought of the storage box thing, great idea.:thumbsup2

[praisehisname]

I'm in; great start so far!

[erika412]

Yay!! Disney World and Kidneys - 2 of my favorite things now rolled into one! Just add a dog and I'd be in heaven. :dogdance: (Or is that a still a sore subject? :rotfl2:)

Anyway, nice start to the TR! Can't wait to read more!

Totally sore. Christmas came and went and there was no dog with a bow under the tree for me.

[erika412]

popcorn::

I'm here and ready to read, great to hear Megan is doing better, I can't think of a better place to celebrate.

I never would thought of the storage box thing, great idea.:thumbsup2

I'm in; great start so far!

Hi! Middlepat is working and since he never goofs off* at work, I thought I'd say hi and welcome.

*sites like these are restricted ;)

About the storage box, I read about it here and thought it was a great idea. We just packed a duffel bag for our overnight stops on the trip and one smaller box of Megan's medicine. The rest of the boxes stayed in the car. Then at the Poly, we were able to stack them in a corner out of the way. No bulky suitcases for the 5 of us in the room.

[kellyw8863]

About the storage box, I read about it here and thought it was a great idea. We just packed a duffel bag for our overnight stops on the trip and one smaller box of Megan's medicine. The rest of the boxes stayed in the car. Then at the Poly, we were able to stack them in a corner out of the way. No bulky suitcases for the 5 of us in the room.

Such a good idea! I so wish we were driving. One, for ideas like this and two, I'm a wuss when it comes to flying. Bah!

Can't wait to read more!

[middlepat]

Totally sore. Christmas came and went and there was no dog with a bow under the tree for me.

Ummm.... I'm just looking out for your health, ya know. As they say there are no truly allergen free dogs.

Welcome guys, and as for the goofing off comment, I resemble that remark.

[MAJ RN]

What an amazing way to celebrate!! I pray that Megan continues to do well and stay healthy!! Can't wait to read more about your trip. That is quite a trip from Chicago to Orlando!!!


melissa

[erika412]

Thanks Melissa!

[erika412]

We decided to drive down I-57 through IL to bypass Chicago and also Indianapolis. We were thinking if we left the Chicagoland area at noon, we'd probably get through Chicago OK, but we might hit Indy right as Friday's rush house was starting. Even though I've lived in Chicago for the majority of my life, I've never traveled south on 57. So, we're a few hours into the drive a few hours and all of a sudden out of nowhere appears the biggest cross I've ever seen. I took a few pictures of it, but the following actually shows how big it is compared to a car.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0774.jpg

I was curious about it so I checked it out on my iphone and found this link. http://www.crossusa.org/ I'll leave the majority of my thoughts out of this, but I can't help wonder if the millions it took to build this thing couldn't have been spent more appropriately - like on feeding the hungry or housing the homeless. But what do I know?

So, we continued to drive and drive and drive. The girls did pretty well, although middlepat had already threatened to turn the car around once early on. They were just so excited to finally be going. I twittered some of the trip on middlepat’s account for the guys in the DisDads group. I felt like an intruder in their man’s den when I had to post in their group that we were updating. Once we arrived, we completely slacked on it. We were having too much fun!

Somewhere near Metropolis, IL- claim to fame being the Hometown of Superman- we stopped for gas and the girls went running to these cut outs which were set up outside the gas station. I think they were a little short for them.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/DSCN0775.jpg

We made through Nashville and then the girls hit their breaking point. We stayed at a Hampton Inn & Suites. It ended up being a pretty nice hotel since we were just hoping for the best when we stopped. We were all in bed by 10 or so and woke up around 5am. At 6am, we were grabbing some food from the continental breakfast on the way out the door and we were back on the road. The plan was to drive as far as the girls would let us, but be open to stopping for the night somewhere if needed. It was a long trek, but the mountains were beautiful. I have to admit that as beautiful as they were, I think they slowed us down a little.

Once we got to flat, wide open lands, I felt like we were really booking along. At one of our stops, Shannon and Mary decided to switch places and Shannon went to the back row. I also gave her a couple of books to read which might have been a huge mistake. At some point, she started to complain about her throat hurting. I thought “oh, here we go, swine flu has arrived.” I was so afraid of getting h1n1 right before the trip or while on the trip. It seemed like a lot of people were coming home with it from Disney World. I'd never used Purell often before, but I was a mad-woman with it this trip. She didn’t feel warm and only said that her throat was bothering her.

We made excellent time and arrived in Orlando about 5:30pm. Once again we had no hotel booked because we weren't sure where we'd end up for the night so we went to Downtown Disney to find a place. The first place we tried was the Doubletree but they had no openings. We ended up just a little bit away at the Sheraton Safari. We decided to go for a quick dinner and then head to bed. The next morning we were planning to check into the Poly and then head to the Magic Kingdom. Off the Disney route, we went to Perkins. This was our first "sit down" restaurant of the trip. With Megan's food allergies (dairy, egg and soy) we were so nervous about eating out of home and out of our control. The waitress was wonderful trying to accommodate us. Shannon didn’t eat much at all and I was still concerned about her. After dinner, we headed back and settled in for a night nice. Or so we thought. Around midnight, Shannon screams out and then proceeds to throw up all over middlepat and their bed. (At least she wasn't sleeping with me. ;) ) I took her to the bathroom and middlepat dealt with getting the bed remade. The hotel staff came up so quickly and were great about changing the bed. I think what happened is that she got a little car sick. She is kind of prone to stomach issues and usually says that her throat feels “spicy” when she’s a little nauseated. All of her complaining seemed to happen right after she and Mary switched seats and Shannon went to the back row. In the morning she was perfectly fine and none of the rest of us got sick.

Coming up next- Finally checking into the Poly and going to the Magic Kingdom

[FreezinRafiki]

It was a long trek, but the mountains were beautiful. I have to admit that as beautiful as they were, I think they slowed us down a little.

I wished we had seen some of them on our drive in October. Both times we hit Tennessee in the middle of the night and saw nothing but the road ahead of us and some vague outlines of mountains. Maybe when we drive down in March we'll arrange it so we can see something. :confused3


Around midnight, Shannon screams out and then proceeds to throw up all over middlepat and their bed.

I am sooo totally not laughing at this.

Oh, she's fine now? Then yes, I am laughing my butt off at this!:rotfl2:

[middlepat]

I am sooo totally not laughing at this.

Oh, she's fine now? Then yes, I am laughing my butt off at this!:rotfl2:

Glad to see my DisDads brethren are there to back me up...

[praisehisname]

Around midnight, Shannon screams out and then proceeds to throw up all over middlepat and their bed.

Oh no! :scared1: I'm glad it was just car sickness and that she felt better soon! :thumbsup2

[erika412]

So, where was I? Ah yes, about to hit Disney property. Shannon was feeling fine at this point and was obviously over what ever she had though I'm still leaning towards car sickness. The Sheraton was nice, but it seemed a little bit saccharine to me. We took the elevator to the main floor and the lady at the desk was over the top sweet asking a bunch of questions about our plans for the day and I kept thinking I don't want to sit here making small talk, I WANT TO GO!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0776.jpg

I think we were all bouncing out of seats by this point.

We checked out of the Sheraton Safari and tried to make our way to the Polynesian. Unfortunately, we weren't in the right lanes for the MK resorts, and ended up at the MK. The parking cast members guided us back through again and we eventually made our way around to the Poly. Now I felt like we really arrived.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0777.jpg

I bought the girls matching shirts for the first day and made them tutus with directions on I found on the DISign forum. Megan's shirt had "Celebrating My Kidneys" on it. We took some pictures in the lobby of the Poly while middlepat checked us in. I completely missed the child area across from the desks so instead the girls ran around the lobby and I followed. One of the DVC cast members stopped me and asked about their shirts- particularly Megan's. She also wanted to know about the tutus and when she realized how easy they were, she planned to make them for her granddaughter.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0778.jpg

Our room was obviously not ready as it was around 9am, so we went to Captain Cooks for breakfast and to get our resort mugs. I love the resort mugs, but I did get a little tired of their decaf pop options. I can't drink caffeine after about noon or I'm up all night. That might not have happened on the trip since you get so tired out at a day at the Parks, but I didn't want to risk it. I usually had the pomegranate lemonade and every time I ordered a lemonade anywhere on property, the server always clarified that it would be the pomegranate. It got old after a while.

After breakfast, we headed off to the Magic Kingdom via the monorail. Per TourguideMike, it was the last day of Jersey Week and supposed to be fairly busy, but I'm a true-ist, I cannot NOT go to the Magic Kingdom for our first park.

Waiting for the monorail:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0781.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0782.jpg

and on the monorail:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0783.jpg

We arrived! We arrived! After getting through the lines and the gates, I first took a picture of the girls at the entrance of the MK.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0786.jpg

Yes, Megan does have her shoes on the wrong feet. I stopped fixing them after a while.

Main Street USA was all decked out for Christmas. I LOVED the Christmas decor. We had been once before in November years ago, but I didn't pay that much attention to the decor as it was one of my earlier adult trips. I really felt in the Christmas spirit this time.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0787.jpg

We stopped and took some Photopass pictures with the Toy Soldiers. It became our Christmas card this year- although the picture ended up darker than I would have liked on the card.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/Image0008.jpg

Next up- Which ride did the girls choose for their very first ride of the trip???

[Blanche_Neige]

Hello! And welcome to our trip report. We are middlepat and erika412 and we’ll be writing this report together. Erika has a PTR here if you want to read that, but it isn’t nearly as exciting as our TR.

We had a few other people join us for this trip—namely our kids! Mary is 6, Shannon is 5 and Megan is 2. Yup, that’s right. Three girls. Middlepat is way outnumbered! Mary and Shannon have been to Walt Disney World twice already, but this was Megan’s first trip. It was a special trip in another way too.

The purpose of this trip was to celebrate Megan's kidneys. It sounds kind of a strange reason for a trip, but Megan had kidney failure last year in December 08 (post infectious nephritis) when she was only 15 months old. She ended up on dialysis and they were talking transplant. She was in and out of the hospital and I (Erika) spent all the time she was in with her. Mary and Shannon knew where I was, but obviously also had their lives uprooted. Megan miraculously turned around and we decided that we wanted to have some alone time with our family once she got healthy enough to travel. She is still on various medications- this is a long battle for her which may ultimately still end up with a transplant, but is doing so well compared to where she was last December.

Congrats Megan! Glad to hear you are doing great :cheer2: You are not the only one celebrating Kidneys :)

We are celebrating my husband's 10th years Kidney Transplant anniversary!

10 year not one rejection episode :woohoo:

The Disney CM told me that the Celebration of life was the most important and it truely is :hug:

[erika412]

Congrats Megan! Glad to hear you are doing great :cheer2: You are not the only one celebrating Kidneys :)

We are celebrating my husband's 10th years Kidney Transplant anniversary!

10 year not one rejection episode :woohoo:

The Disney CM told me that the Celebration of life was the most important and it truely is :hug:

That is so awesome!!!! Stories of excellent survival after a transplant like your husband's make me feel so much better if Megan ever needs a transplant. Her doctors do anticipate needing one eventually, but I'm holding out hope they're wrong.

[praisehisname]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/Image0008.jpg

Next up- Which ride did the girls choose for their very first ride of the trip???

Love the picture! My guess is Small World?

[kellyw8863]

Hold on tightly to that hope (and a good dose of healthy denial doesn't hurt either)! Sometimes it's all that we as parents of "sick" kids have. FWIW, have you ever looked into MAW for Megan?

I'm loving your TR, and I love the pictures of the girls. Do you mind sharing here how you made the tutus? My six year old is a true girly girl and would LOVE something like that!

[Captain_Oblivious]

Hey guys,

Just hopping over to catch up from the DIS Dad thread. The girls look very cute in their outfits! I'm glad to see there was a reason to celebrate with Megan's health turning around.

So I'm guessing Shannon no longer rides in the back seat? Ever? :rotfl2:

[erika412]

Love the picture! My guess is Small World?

No, that wasn't it!

Hold on tightly to that hope (and a good dose of healthy denial doesn't hurt either)! Sometimes it's all that we as parents of "sick" kids have. FWIW, have you ever looked into MAW for Megan?

I'm loving your TR, and I love the pictures of the girls. Do you mind sharing here how you made the tutus? My six year old is a true girly girl and would LOVE something like that!

We've known a few people IRL who have done MAW trips and at one point, had Megan needed the transplant, I might have considered it. But now, since she's doing better (for now), I rather keep that option open for down the road. We were asked though by a couple different cast members if this was a MAW trip.

The tutus are so easy. Detailed directions are at http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2048367
If I can do it, anyone can. Honestly, I'm about as crafty as a flea. I finished up Mary's on the drive down actually.


Hey guys,

Just hopping over to catch up from the DIS Dad thread. The girls look very cute in their outfits! I'm glad to see there was a reason to celebrate with Megan's health turning around.

So I'm guessing Shannon no longer rides in the back seat? Ever? :rotfl2:

Nope, she won't! She even has said she no longer wants to drive to WDW because she doesn't want to get car sick. I told her that she'll need to pay her own airfare. :laughing: It was our first time driving down and we actually really enjoyed it and enjoyed having our car there so I think she's out of luck. :confused3

[praisehisname]

Can I guess again? What about the train? :confused3

[middlepat]

The tutus are so easy. Detailed directions are at http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2048367
If I can do it, anyone can. Honestly, I'm about as crafty as a flea. I finished up Mary's on the drive down actually.

I'll back you up on this hon. In fact the fleas might still have you.


Nope, she won't! She even has said she no longer wants to drive to WDW because she doesn't want to get car sick. I told her that she'll need to pay her own airfare. :laughing: It was our first time driving down and we actually really enjoyed it and enjoyed having our car there so I think she's out of luck. :confused3

I agree, she's not getting out of future drives that easily. Although I'll give her a pass on the back row.

[erika412]

I'll back you up on this hon. In fact the fleas might still have you.

My first reply is bite me, but since that isn't that family friendly, I won't say it and you can just pretend I did.

[erika412]

Can I guess again? What about the train? :confused3

Nope, not that either!

[erika412]

After we took the picture for our Christmas card, we made our way down Main Street. It was fairly crowded as the morning parade was already going on. We skipped it and headed directly to the place of the Honored First Ride. The girls have been talking about "the Goofy ride" since their last trip. So, off to Toontown we went to Goofy's Barnstormer. I think the girls will be crushed when that theming is gone, but at least the roller coaster will stay. Granted it will be a few yeas from now and by then they will have moved on to other things. When we got there, we had Megan measured even though we both knew she wouldn't be tall enough. The cast member at the front of the ride was a very sweet girl- I think from Sweden but now I'm not 100% sure. Middlepat took Mary and Shannon on the ride. As I was walking away with Megan, the cast member came running after me and wanted to know about Megan's shirt. Her dad had a kidney transplant and her sister would eventually end up needing a transplant too. She said they had a genetic thing in their family but her father was doing very well. I like to hear those stories!

Since I had to occupy Megan's time a little bit, we went exploring in Minnie Mouse's house. She loved it. And I went a little picture happy.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0791.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0793.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0794.jpg

Minnie also decorated for Christmas:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0795.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0796.jpg

Megan sat at this cake and played with it for quite a while. She was fascinated with it.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0797.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0798.jpg

We spent so much time in Minnie's house that they were done with Goofy's ride and spotted us in Minnie's Garden. All 5 of us went through Minnie's house again then. I put away the camera though.

After Minnie's house, we headed over to Fantasyland. Our first stop was the Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh. I took this next picture while waiting in line. It isn't that great of a shot, but I just love the excitement in Megan's face. I think she's beginning to understand what "going to Disney World" really means. FUN! Megan took off her tutu on the way to Pooh, and Mary and Shannon followed shortly after. I was a little bummed that they took them off, but they did last longer than I thought!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0799.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0800-1.jpg

Next came Cinderella's carousel.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0801.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0802.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0803.jpg

In Mary's trip journal, she wrote that her least favorite thing of the trip was going on Cinderella's carousel. I think I could come up with proof that she really did enjoy it, but she says it is for babies, so I'll just let her go with that story.

[praisehisname]

Yay for Barnstormer! So it's going to stay even after the remodel? That would be cool!

[erika412]

I thought they were keeping it and putting it in the circus area with the new dumbo. Or building the circus around it. It will be rethemed from goofy, but still exist.

I haven't updated because we've been traveling. Then I've been sick for the last few weeks after coming home.

[erika412]

After we went on the Carousel, we hit It's a Small World. It is one of middlepat's favorites. Megan was very enthralled with it as I'm sure any two year old is. Shannon asked me how all the people moved like that. I said it was part of Disney Magic. Little did I know we were going to be having a few magical things happen to us on the trip. And I was going to be using that phrase a lot too with her because she's my "how does this work?" or "why this" girl.

We then headed to the Tiki room.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0804.jpg

While at the Wilderness Lodge a few years ago, Middlepat purchased a cd of the music from all the rides. So, for a while before the trip, we were listening to it in the car a lot. The girls love the Tiki room song. While we were watching the pre-show, we got a text that our room was ready. Yay! I was dying to see the room and get settled.

After the Tiki room, we had lunch at Cosmic Ray's on our way out of the park. It was super crowded so we found a table first and then middlepat went up to order. I can't remember what he got for me, but our main concern was what to feed Megan. We were under the impression from an email from their Dietary services, that all counter service restaurants would have allergy-free chicken strips/nuggets. I think I must have misunderstood, because it was that all parks offer them, but only at select counter services. So, I think Megan ended up eating some of the fruit packs that came as sides to the other kids meals. I was actually looking forward to having a sit down meal the next day and knowing we were going to have to talk to a chef before ordering.

We then decided to head to our room and we got there at 3:30pm. We were in Tukelau on the main floor- room 1943. I took some pictures before we destroyed it. We were very pleased with the room size and I liked the toiletries too. :thumbsup2

Our only towel Mickey Head of the week:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0805.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0806.jpg

I would have been happier with a double sink in the bathroom:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0807.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0808.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/DSCN0809.jpg

Having the under-the bed boxes was awesome because we just stacked them together in the corner. If we would have had luggage instead, I'm sure they would have gotten in the way during the week. We brought a pop-up hamper as well as recommended on the Dis.

Once we got a little settled, we decided it was too early to go to bed, and on a whim, went to Epcot. My one and only thing I really wanted to do at Epcot was Soarin'. The last time we went, Mary was too short for the ride, so we didn't do it. I've been dying to go on it! She got a fastpass for it, but since it had been a few years, it was long gone lost somewhere. That's ok! I was more than willing to wait in line just to go on it.

So, we took the Monorail to Epcot and proceeded to have two of our three "magical moments" on the trip. That's coming up next!

[middlepat]

After the Tiki room, we had lunch at Cosmic Ray's on our way out of the park. It was super crowded so we found a table first and then middlepat went up to order. I can't remember what he got for me, but our main concern was what to feed Megan. We were under the impression from an email from their Dietary services, that all counter service restaurants would have allergy-free chicken strips/nuggets. I think I must have misunderstood, because it was that all parks offer them, but only at select counter services. So, I think Megan ended up eating some of the fruit packs that came as sides to the other kids meals. I was actually looking forward to having a sit down meal the next day and knowing we were going to have to talk to a chef before ordering.


Actually Megan had a hot dog. I was able to talk to the service manager at the counter and he "walked" the hot dog through the kitchen from cooking to counter to be sure that there was no cross contamination. I was very happy with this level of attention from the management even on such a busy day.

[Riviera510]

Hey Ka! (and Brian) :wave2:


Love the pics of the girls in their tutus. I cant wait to read about more of your trip!

[FreezinRafiki]

Welcome back and I'm glad you're feeling better!
Can't wait to hear about the rest of the your trip!

[erika412]

Actually Megan had a hot dog. I was able to talk to the service manager at the counter and he "walked" the hot dog through the kitchen from cooking to counter to be sure that there was no cross contamination. I was very happy with this level of attention from the management even on such a busy day.

Oh, I forgot about that! Good thing you remember all these things and not the important things I tell you just a day or two before. :lmao:

Hey Ka! (and Brian) :wave2:


Love the pics of the girls in their tutus. I cant wait to read about more of your trip!

Hi Wegas!!!! Talking to you about your trip got me in the mood to start working on this again!

Welcome back and I'm glad you're feeling better!
Can't wait to hear about the rest of the your trip!

Thanks!

[burly]

I'm in! Great trip report so far. Yay on the kidneys! Here's hoping they keep behaving like us mama's are praying they do!
I cannot tell you how much i am in awe that you drove all that way. Just thinking about it makes me shudder and my kids are older, and louder and whinier! lol
And can i tell you i LOVE the tutu's. I think i will make them for my sister and i to wear on our sisters only trip! :rotfl:
Can you imagine 2 adult women wearing those things into the park!:rotfl2:

[Disney owl]

great report looking forward to reading more.

What a long trip how many miles was it?

[erika412]

great report looking forward to reading more.

What a long trip how many miles was it?

It was 1200 miles each way that we did in 21 hours which includes gas/potty/food breaks over two days. We did stop for the night.

I'm in! Great trip report so far. Yay on the kidneys! Here's hoping they keep behaving like us mama's are praying they do!
I cannot tell you how much i am in awe that you drove all that way. Just thinking about it makes me shudder and my kids are older, and louder and whinier! lol
And can i tell you i LOVE the tutu's. I think i will make them for my sister and i to wear on our sisters only trip! :rotfl:
Can you imagine 2 adult women wearing those things into the park!:rotfl2:

I say go for it! I'd love to see pictures! Thanks for the kind words about Megan.

[kellyw8863]

Yay, you're back! I was getting worried there for a while! Though I'm not one to talk - I haven't touched my own PTR in a week or so.:rolleyes1 I can't wait to read more!

[erika412]

I mentioned that while on our trip, we had three Magical Moments. Only 1 was really called that by Disney staff, but the other two were just as magical in their own way.

In my last post, I said that I was dying to go on Soarin' and after we checked into our room, we decided to take the monorail to Epcot.

As we go through the turnstiles, a cast member working them noticed Megan's shirt. She asked what it meant and we explained a little of Megan's history with kidney failure, and how she turned around and was doing very well. She wanted to know if we were on a MAW trip. We weren't and then she said to wait a second. She came back with a fast pass to whatever ride we wanted. It was pretty exciting! That was Magical Moment #1 which lead us right into #2.

We went to Soarin' to use the pass. I felt a little bad using the pass for something that Megan couldn't ride, but we were there specifically to go on Soarin'. We decided that I would first ride with Mary and Shannon and then middlepat would go with them after. We didn't use a baby swap because we had the fast pass. So, after getting off Soarin' (LOVED it by the way), the three of us are walking down the exit and we see middlepat talking to someone.

IT WAS MEGAN'S NURSE! The entire time Megan was in the hospital, she had Erin for her nurse. Erin happened to be in Orlando for a wedding-remember, we live in the Chicago area and she obviously does too- and they had one free night. She and her fiance had decided to go to Epcot and they happened to be right there at Soarin' when we were. If you ever had a child in the hospital (and I hope you never have) you'd understand how important the nurses become to you. It was amazing running into her (she recognized middlepat and Megan.) I wish I had gotten a picture of Megan and her, but I was just in shock that we saw her. She hadn't seen Megan since her last hospital stay in March and couldn't believe how good she was looking!

This trip was all about Megan and her kidneys and there, in all of Disney World, we ran into Erin- someone who had been through us with all of the kidney experience. What are the chances!

[mickeystoontown]

Subbing until I can come back and catch up!

[FreezinRafiki]

Everybody now...
"its a small world after all
its a small world after all"

Seriously, that is very cool that you ran into some that special on this speical of a trip!

[erika412]

Everybody now...
"its a small world after all
its a small world after all"

Seriously, that is very cool that you ran into some that special on this speical of a trip!


I know, I know. Some of you professional Disers are probably thinking it was no big deal, but for us, knowing what we went through, it was pretty amazing and yes, a very small world experience (now where is the tongue sticking out smilie?)

The real, Disney sanctioned Magical Moment happens a few days later. There's some foreshadowing for you. ;)

After our encounter with Erin, middlepat was supposed to take Mary and Shannon back on Soarin' so he could have his turn. For some reason, Mary didn't want to go. She said she liked it, but just didn't want to go. I decided instead of sitting around, I was going to take Mary and Megan on Living with the Land. I know middlepat really wanted to go with Megan to see her reaction to the pumpkins, but I didn't want to sit around waiting. I was willing to go on it again and offered to, but it didn't happen.

Both of them really liked it. We walked around The Land Pavilion for a little while and then found middlepat and Shannon. We were planning to go to the food court for dinner, but I think we were either still full from our late lunch or the girls were getting really tired so we headed back to our room at the Poly.

Middlepat went to Captain Cooks to get us some food- I have no idea what we all ate, but it was decent enough. Obviously nothing to make a note of and we settled in for the night. After the girls went down, I downloaded my pictures from the camera. For some reason, I had a huge fear that I was going to lose my camera on this trip. So, we brought my laptop- though we didn't bother with getting internet- and I downloaded the pictures nightly.

[burly]

My eldest daughter has had some serious hospital stays and i agree. You just create a special bond with someone who cares for your child, like it"s their own child, when your child is ill. It's unexplainable. I completely understand.
Nurses...:hug::grouphug:
I love Soarin'....:thumbsup2

[DisneyDaddio]

Fantastic start! Look forward to reading more.

I had a good laugh when I read your comment on giving up trying to keep the shoes on the correct feet. For the longest time my youngest daughter would put her shoes on the wrong feet and I would constantly have to battle with here to correct them. She just did not care that they were wrong and did not understand why I needed to change them.

[erika412]

Subbing until I can come back and catch up!

I missed you subbing in there. Welcome!

My eldest daughter has had some serious hospital stays and i agree. You just create a special bond with someone who cares for your child, like it"s their own child, when your child is ill. It's unexplainable. I completely understand.
Nurses...:hug::grouphug:
I love Soarin'....:thumbsup2

It sucks to have to understand that. I hope things are ok with your daughter.

Fantastic start! Look forward to reading more.

I had a good laugh when I read your comment on giving up trying to keep the shoes on the correct feet. For the longest time my youngest daughter would put her shoes on the wrong feet and I would constantly have to battle with here to correct them. She just did not care that they were wrong and did not understand why I needed to change them.

I think it is the toughest with Crocs. She still does it with her other shoes and boots right now, but the crocs just come on and off so easily that she's always playing with them. I wouldn't be surprised if there are more pictures with them on the wrong feet coming up.

[mickeystoontown]

Okay, I'm all caught up now. Let's see what I wanted to comment on....

Of course, the first thing.......so very glad to hear that Megan is doing well. There's no better place than Disney to celebrate!

I love the t-shirts and tutus. Your girls are absolutely adorable.

Your room at the Poly was gorgeous. That's my dream resort. I'm staying there one day when my ship comes in.

The pictures at the Magic Kingdom are adorable...even the one with the shoes on the wrong feet. ;)

I can't believe that you ran into Megan's nurse! What are the chances of that? Thousands and thousands of people in Walt Disney World and you run into her. I think somebody up there planned that.:littleangel:

[erika412]

I forgot all about our photopass pictures during my later posting about Day 1 so I'm just going to bombard you now with them. Ignore my ugly self. :lmao:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0001.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0002.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0003.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0004.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0005.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0006.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0007.jpg

Nice bra strap:
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0009.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0010.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0012.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Image0013.jpg

[mickeystoontown]

Shut your mouth...."ignore my ugly self" :confused:. You ALL look perfecly fine and happy to be in Walt Disney World!

[erika412]

Shut your mouth...."ignore my ugly self" :confused:. You ALL look perfecly fine and happy to be in Walt Disney World!

I know, I know. I just HATE pictures of me.

We were so thrilled to be there. I got a little teary eyed actually walking down Main Street with the girls. It was an emotional trip for me- in a good way though.

[kellyw8863]

What a small world! And I love your family photos.:goodvibes I hate pictures of myself as well, but I'm committing to having them done when we're down there in April. It'll be painful, but I'm sure there's a part of me that will someday appreciate it.:rotfl:

[erika412]

testing something

nevermind

[erika412]

So, I was mentioning that every night I downloaded our picture from the camera. I had this fear that I would lose my camera this trip. I had no idea, but I was afraid of it happening. I've never lost my camera (well, permanently- I've misplaced it a few times in the house) so it was pretty much an irrational fear.

At the end of day 1, I downloaded pictures and went to bed. Mary had a tough night- she wasn't feeling well- so it was restless for me. Brian was aware of what kind of night we had and was trying to sneak out with Megan and Shannon so Mary and I could sleep a bit. But Mary heard him and said "I have breakfast with Pooh!" So, we were all off for our 8:10am reservations at The Crystal Palace.

I love an empty Main Street.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0361.jpg

I think it was about this time that I realized that I FORGOT MY CAMERA in the room. My iphone has a camera, but the pictures just aren't the same. I decided that I would rely on photopass when possible and my phone when not. It was frustrating and annoying for the first full day, but it was my fault as I left it attached to my computer in the room.

Some photopass pictures:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0014.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0015.jpg

I have no idea what time we got to the restaurant anymore, but we did have to wait a bit.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0362.jpg

Once we were seated, the girls were very excited to meet Pooh and his friends. We pulled out our autograph books that I made from the wonderful people on the DISigns forum.

Shannon wanted to show it off- sorry about the poor quality again.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0363.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0364.jpg

We knew because of Megan's allergies, we were going to have to wait a bit to talk to the chef to find out what she could eat. We waited and waited and waited.

[erika412]

We were waiting and waiting for the chef to show up. We're not impatient people, usually, and we were aware that we were going to have to wait a bit, but this went on longer than a bit.

We went ahead with plates for Mary and Shannon and eventually ourselves. After a half hour of waiting for the chef, Middlepat went and tracked him down. Once he found him, he was very helpful in true Disney fashion. At one point, I was away from the table- getting seconds for one of them, Megan had grabbed a bacon off my plate. The bacon was sitting on a cheesy egg dish and had cheese on it when it went into her mouth. Megan is allergic to dairy. Within seconds the Chef showed up at our table. Megan started reacting and in checking the diaper bag, we realized that we left all her Benedryl in our "medicine box" (see page 1 pictures) in the room. We were so unprepared which is not really like us. Well, maybe it is like me and not Middlepat. I don't know.:rolleyes1 The Chef told us we could take her to the First Aid Station which was very conveniently located next to the restaurant. Middlepat took her while I stayed with Mary and Shannon.

Megan responded very quickly to the Benedryl and she and Middlepat were back in no time. At some point, of course, we had visits from Pooh and the gang, but as stressful as the breakfast was, and not having a camera, I have no idea anymore if it was before the whole allergy thing or after.


We finished up breakfast and headed to Tomorrowland.

[erika412]

The benedryl did its magic (no pun intended) and we were off to Tomorrowland. We walked past Monsters on the way. The last time we were at Disney World, Monsters was doing some trial runs of the show. Middlepat had learned here that you had to ask about it and then potentially get to see it. He asked the cast member standing out in front of it and they weren't showing it that day. So, he was very eager to see it this time. We headed directly into the theater- I mean line inside- and waited. We didn't submit any jokes- Mary needs a good joke book because she's a little elementary in her jokes right now. In fact, here's an example:

Mary: Knock Knock
Patient parent: Who's there?
Mary: Orange
Patient parent: Orange who?
Mary: Orange slipped on the banana peal.

Where's the joke? Who knows, but she finds it very funny. I think she made this up when we were trying to tell her the "Orange you glad I didn't say banana again" punchline.

Once it was time to see the show, we ended up one row behind the row with the lights. It wasn't intentional to sit there nor was I trying to get the other row, I just went wherever. Mary and Shannon were sitting behind "that guy" and when they showed him, they sometimes showed up on the screen- they loved that. Aside from that, the show was just ok. I hate saying that about a Disney thing, but after all that hype and waiting for it, I was a little let down. Middlepat might post what he thought. He's still in bed sleeping, aren't I nice?

We then continued our walk into Tomorrowland. The girls saw the Buzz ride and as it was a favorite from the last trip, we went there. After the ride, Buzz was out for a meet and greet. We quickly got in a kind of long line. I decided to take advantage of the line and use the bathroom. On my way, I walked right by a talking, moving trashcan. It was the infamous PUSH!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0365.jpg

I ran back to the line to get the girls. I didn't want them to miss Push! And because I had my iPhone instead of my camera, I started to take video. (clicking on it will play the video in photobucket)

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/th_IMG_0367.jpg (http://s16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/?action=view&current=IMG_0367.flv)

Shannon got a little extra excited in this next video and I told her to not touch him. Mary heard that and became our "hall monitor" as we affectionately call her and started to tell everyone to not touch him. Mary is our rules girl. When we first moved her to a big girl bed years ago, she didn't dare leave her room (because we told her to stay in bed, of course), and there were nights that we'd check on her only to find her asleep on the floor in front of her bedroom door. Her door opened in, so basically she'd be blocking us out of her room. Shannon on the other hand, would come downstairs multiple times a night and still does years later.

In the video you can see in Mary's face that she isn't feeling well.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/th_IMG_0366.jpg (http://s16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/?action=view&current=IMG_0366.flv)

After having fun with Push, the girls went back to the Buzz line where middlepat was holding their spot. Yeah, I know, that probably would have upset some people here, but you gotta do what you gotta do when there is a walking, talking trashcan. :confused3

I didn't bother with pictures of Buzz because photopass was on the job!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0022.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0021.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0020.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0019.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0018.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/Image0017.jpg

[kellyw8863]

Great pictures and I love the videos! Poor Megan! I'm glad the Benadryl did the trick for her.

[GoofyaboutMickey]

Yeah, I know, that probably would have upset some people here, but you gotta do what you gotta do when there is a walking, talking trashcan. :confused3

OMG! I am not sure if I'm just over tired or very easily amused but that line had me cracking up. Seriously setting here laughing at the computer...I think my dog thinks I'm nuts, but that was funny:rotfl:

[middlepat]

[SIZE="3"]
Once it was time to see the show, we ended up one row behind the row with the lights. It wasn't intentional to sit there nor was I trying to get the other row, I just went wherever. Mary and Shannon were sitting behind "that guy" and when they showed him, they sometimes showed up on the screen- they loved that. Aside from that, the show was just ok. I hate saying that about a Disney thing, but after all that hype and waiting for it, I was a little let down. Middlepat might post what he thought. He's still in bed sleeping, aren't I nice?


The first day I get to sleep until 9:00 am in months and somehow it gets advertised to the world... :confused3

As for Monsters Laugh Floor. I thought the show was predictably Disney. The jokes both standard and selected from the crowd were squeaky clean and typically "Cheesy". That all being said, I thought it was funny. I still like "its a small world", "Haunted Mansion" and "Enchanted Tiki Room" even though they haven't changed these in a few years either. Admittedly even I have to draw the line at Country Bear Jamboree. (Sorry for the Frontierland spoiler)

[erika412]

The first day I get to sleep until 9:00 am in months and somehow it gets advertised to the world... :confused3

Hardly the world. We don't have many people following this TR (though we :love: the ones that are) so move on with your paranoid self. :lmao:

[Tinker_Tam]

...and those of us following are really enjoying the TR!!! :thumbsup2

[DisneyDaddio]

Whew, glad you were so close to the first-aid station and the Benadryl did the trick.

Gotta love Push.

[turnerx6]

Hello! I just started following through your TR. I must admit that I have had tears in my eyes the whole time!

Praising God for the MIRACLE of Megans kidneys!!! What a HUGE celebration for your entire family.

We are going the last week of October for my b-day (the 28th) and our dear daughter, Liberty..'s angel day. She fought for 5 long months, from a very rare genetic disorder... unfortunately she passed away the night before my b-day. Oh how we miss her. I was literally REJOICING with your family while looking at all your pics. We have three other dd's who are THRILLED about disney this fall. IT will be our first trip (my parents are joining us)...they will be 5yrs, 2yrs and 11 months in Oct. I absolute LOVE the tutu's you made - im thinking about doing something like that for our girls! Was it hard? And i LOVE LOVE LOVE the shirts as well, especially little Megans! So precious. How did you do those?? I would love to come up with something like that for our dd's. We are "wanting" to do a balloon release on the 27th for our precious Liberty's angel day anniversary..it would be cute if they had matching outfits that day - but not sure what their shirts could say..."celebrating Liberty" or "Celebrating 157 days of Liberty" (thats how long she was with us..5 months and 3 days)...Celebrating our angel?? I don't know...Any idea where I could get shirts made? I don't know how to sew AT ALL, so I dont know if I could even make tutu's! Yikes..

Anyway.

Im SO thrilled for your precious family. HUGS to each of you! God bless you all.

Kelly from TX

[erika412]

Oh wow Kelly. Your post made me all teary-eyed. I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter. How bittersweet she passed right before your birthday- your gift of knowing her for those 5 months and also the pain of losing her at what should have been a celebratory time.

As for the questions about your shirts- you could try the DISigns forum. Maybe someone would make you an iron on transfer for the balloon release (love that idea). I made some iron on transfers for our trip too.

DISign forum: http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=105

Thread with instructions on how to use transfers: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1772213

The tutus were incredible easy. I don't sew. If I could do them, a five year old could:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2048367

As for Megan's mickey shirt- an acquaintance who does sewing and embroidery out of her house did them. I told her what I wanted an bought them from her.

You can find a lot of custom items at www.etsy.com too.

If you start a PTR, you might get other ideas too from people reading it.

[erika412]

Great pictures and I love the videos! Poor Megan! I'm glad the Benadryl did the trick for her.

Thanks!

OMG! I am not sure if I'm just over tired or very easily amused but that line had me cracking up. Seriously setting here laughing at the computer...I think my dog thinks I'm nuts, but that was funny:rotfl:

:rotfl2: Give your dog a kiss for me. I want one. I don't think Middlepat is aware of that though. :rolleyes1


...and those of us following are really enjoying the TR!!! :thumbsup2

Thanks!

Whew, glad you were so close to the first-aid station and the Benadryl did the trick.

Gotta love Push.

Push was pretty awesome even if my kids decided to abuse him. I found myself looking at his "handler" a little too much. I didn't want to get caught looking at him and ruin it for the kids .

[middlepat]

:rotfl2: Give your dog a kiss for me. I want one. I don't think Middlepat is aware of that though. :rolleyes1


What, you want a dog? Who knew? :confused3

[FreezinRafiki]

:rotfl2: Give your dog a kiss for me. I want one. I don't think Middlepat is aware of that though. :rolleyes1


What, you want a dog? Who knew? :confused3

I suppose this is where I should mention that we're leaving for Disney World in less than 2 weeks with our 2 kids and 2 dogs. :goodvibes

Great updates by the way! Gotta love Disney's first aid. Pray to God you never have to use it, but it sure is nice that it's there.

[Captain_Oblivious]

Just catching up...

Man...allergy attacks and forgetting the camera! I hope you took good notes. Play your cards right, and you could have a good first draft of "National Lampoon's Disney Vacation". :thumbsup2

[mickeystoontown]

Whew! I had some catchin' up to do but I'm all caught up again. I'm glad that you were able to get the Benadryl quickly and it worked it's magic.

Tell Mary that I love her knock-knock joke. Kids can say the funniest things. Sorry that you thought that the Laugh Floor was just okay. We've been lucky and our son's joke has been chosen a couple of times. That's makes the show even more enjoyable.

The Buzz Lightyear photopass pictures are adorable!

[middlepat]

Just catching up...

Man...allergy attacks and forgetting the camera! I hope you took good notes. Play your cards right, and you could have a good first draft of "National Lampoon's Disney Vacation". :thumbsup2

I guess that makes me Clark... ("Holiday Rooooaaaddds")

[FreezinRafiki]

I guess that makes me Clark... ("Holiday Rooooaaaddds")

Can I be cousin Eddie? :rotfl2:

[middlepat]

Can I be cousin Eddie? :rotfl2:

You are most definitely Cousin Eddie.
"I don't know why they call this hamburger helper, it does fine all by itself"
:lmao::lmao::lmao:

[Captain_Oblivious]

You are most definitely Cousin Eddie.
"I don't know why they call this hamburger helper, it does fine all by itself"
:lmao::lmao::lmao:

Surprised, Eddie? If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am right now.

[middlepat]

I just found out that my lovely DW (our gracious hostess here) has never seen any of the Vacation movies.... :scared1:

Quick to the Netflix Cave....:moped:

[FreezinRafiki]

Surprised, Eddie? If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am right now.

"I don't know if I oughta go sailin' down no hill with nothin' between the ground and my brains but a piece of government plastic."

[erika412]

I just found out that my lovely DW (our gracious hostess here) has never seen any of the Vacation movies.... :scared1:

Quick to the Netflix Cave....:moped:

I don't have a dog either.

[erika412]

I suppose this is where I should mention that we're leaving for Disney World in less than 2 weeks with our 2 kids and 2 dogs. :goodvibes

Great updates by the way! Gotta love Disney's first aid. Pray to God you never have to use it, but it sure is nice that it's there.

Well, first I hate you that you are going to WDW so soon. And second, I hate you that you have not one, but two dogs.

But I'm actually not jealous of your 20+ hour trip with said dogs. Driving that distance with the kids (and middlepat) was enough.

Seriously though, have a great trip! I'm still jealous though.

[Captain_Oblivious]

I just found out that my lovely DW (our gracious hostess here) has never seen any of the Vacation movies.... :scared1:

Quick to the Netflix Cave....:moped:

Wow...That's an essential for anyone's study of the art of cinema. Truly profound movies that will resonate with your soul, and perhaps change your world-view. :rolleyes1

[kellyw8863]

I have a dog. You can have him. Our mailman would be thrilled.

[erika412]

I'll take him!

[kellyw8863]

100 pounds of chocolate love heading your way.

Really, my husband would kill me if he knew I was even entertaining the idea of shipping Jake off.:rolleyes1

[erika412]

We finished up with Buzz and talked about where to go next. Mary was very obviously not holding up well and Megan could have used a nap at this point. We decided to skip our 11:50 lunch ADR (first time of many skips) at Tony's Town Square. Middlepat took Mary and Megan back to our room for a rest while Shannon and I stayed and played.

I let Shannon pick where to go to next and of course, she picked "The Goofy Ride." I have no idea what it is with my kids and that ride, but they love it. We went on it a few times and then she wanted to play on Donald's Boat. It was a nice day and I let her get completely drenched. She played for quite a while on it.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0368.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0369.jpg

After getting soaked (her, not me) we had to go back on the Goofy ride. Then she wanted to go on the teacups.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0370.jpg

We the decided to get in line for Dumbo. While in line, Middlepat called. They were back at the Magic Kingdom. It didn't seem as if they were gone that long, but he can post how long it was. I told him we were in line for Dumbo. The line was slow moving enough that Middlepat was able to find us and Megan and Mary joined Shannon and me for the ride. While up in the air, I thought it would be fun to take a few random pictures:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0371.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0372.jpg

After Dumbo, we decided to get everyone a little snack. We went to Scuttle's Landing by Ariel's Grotto. I had a cream cheese filled pretzel which made skipping lunch completely worthwhile. It was so good and I'd love to find the equivalent here. It is definitely on my list of things to have again next time we go. I hope that they will find another place to sell the pretzel after the renovation. The girls aside from Megan had cookies. Megan had chips and I think we all got a frozen drink.

Middlepat was a great husband and remembered to bring my camera back from the room.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0373.jpg

Then it was time one of Middlepat's favorites: It's a Small World. I could honestly take or leave it and I might have mentioned that in an earlier post, but he likes it. And the kids love it. So we go.

I took a couple pictures while on the ride, but I'm actually not a huge fan of that. Nothing against those of you that do, I just don't like doing it. I did take more when we were just sitting there at the end waiting to deboat.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0375.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0376.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0377.jpg

There must have been something very exciting here:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0378.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0379.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0380.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0381.jpg

[middlepat]

We the decided to get in line for Dumbo. While in line, Middlepat called. They were back at the Magic Kingdom. It didn't seem as if they were gone that long, but he can post how long it was. I told him we were in line for Dumbo. The line was slow moving enough that Middlepat was able to find us and Megan and Mary joined Shannon and me for the ride. While up in the air, I thought it would be fun to take a few random pictures:


We were gone about 1.5 hours. Megan wouldn't sleep, so Mary and I decided we should go find Mom and Shannon.


After Dumbo, we decided to get everyone a little snack. We went to Scuttle's Landing by Ariel's Grotto. I had a cream cheese filled pretzel which made skipping lunch completely worthwhile. It was so good and I'd love to find the equivalent here. It is definitely on my list of things to have again next time we go. I hope that they will find another place to sell the pretzel after the renovation. The girls aside from Megan had cookies. Megan had chips and I think we all got a frozen drink.


For those interested. Scuttle's Landing (http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=217)


Then it was time one of Middlepat's favorites: It's a Small World. I could honestly take or leave it and I might have mentioned that in an earlier post, but he likes it. And the kids love it. So we go.


Its a small world after all,
Its a small world after all,
Its a small world after all
Its a small, small world.

You know you all love it. :laughing:

[erika412]

Its a small world after all,
Its a small world after all,
Its a small world after all
Its a small, small world.

You know you all love it. :laughing:

Yeah, I loved it about the same for the 10th time in the van today.

[erika412]

Haircuts.

I'm interrupting this trip report to share some haircuts from today.

Before:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0666.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0667.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0668.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0669.jpg

And After:


http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0670.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0671.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0672.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0673.jpg



And haircutless, but still wanting part of the action:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0674.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/IMG_0675.jpg

[erika412]

After IASW, we started to walk towards the Haunted Mansion. I was happy to have the camera again and took a couple pictures by stroller parking.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0382.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0383.jpg

Then we went on the Haunted Mansion. The girls also love this one. I did prepare them for the stretching room and how it gets dark because I didn't think they'd remember it from our last trip. Everyone did well and on we went.

We ran into Princess Tiana's Showboat Jubilee. We stayed and watched for a while. I took some pictures, but we were pretty far away and I just have a simple point and click. They aren't that clear.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0384.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0385.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0386.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0387.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0388.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/IMG_0389.jpg

Our next stop was another family favorite- Pirates of the Caribbean. It was Megan's first time, but she did well.

After Pirates, it was time to head back to the room and get ready for dinner. Will our second character breakfast be better than the first?

[mickeystoontown]

I just adore the pictures of the girls on It's a Small World. The smiles are so great! Good for you having such a wonderful hubby that he remembered to bring the camera back. (And lucky for us 'cause we get more pictures:thumbsup2)

The haircuts are adorable!

[praisehisname]

Wow, I had a lot to catch up on! Great updates; I'm looking forward to hearing more!

[Tinker_Tam]

Hope all is ok....no update in a while!

[kellyw8863]

I'm loving all the pics! Did you do the girls' hair yourself? Their cuts look so cute!

[luckylady]

I just found you and read all. Great trip, beautiful girls. Prayers that Megan's kidneys continue to get better. My oldest also has the soy allgery and we found out last trip almost everything in disney has soy in it.Hope things are okay at home and can't wait to read more.

[Wherem I Now]

Don't know how I missed this one until now.

Great job with the TR so far!

[erika412]

Wow. I just really suck at these, don't I? How long has it been since my last entry? Geez-louise.

Wow, I had a lot to catch up on! Great updates; I'm looking forward to hearing more!

Ah, that was the plan, I was giving you ample time to catch up.

I just adore the pictures of the girls on It's a Small World. The smiles are so great! Good for you having such a wonderful hubby that he remembered to bring the camera back. (And lucky for us 'cause we get more pictures:thumbsup2)

The haircuts are adorable!

Thanks!

Hope all is ok....no update in a while!

Everything is good, just life and laziness.

I'm loving all the pics! Did you do the girls' hair yourself? Their cuts look so cute!

hahahaha, I didn't know we had a comedian reading the thread. :lmao: No, I'm not that talented.

I just found you and read all. Great trip, beautiful girls. Prayers that Megan's kidneys continue to get better. My oldest also has the soy allgery and we found out last trip almost everything in disney has soy in it.Hope things are okay at home and can't wait to read more.

Oh wow. We didn't run into any problems with the soy, but when we came home, we had her tested and she was no longer allergic to it. Well, I should clarify- she was never positive to soy allergy test wise, but was in severe pain when we tried to put her on a soy formula when we discovered the dairy allergy. Since then we just always avoided it. But now she's doing fine with it which could be why it wasn't an issue at Disney.

[erika412]

So, I left off after spending a day at the Magic Kingdom. Mary was feeling sick, but we were all excited our dinner ADRs. We were going to 1900 Park Fare for dinner!

The girls got dressed in their princess dresses (we'll be seeing these later on the trip too, and they were a very big park of our Disney Sanctioned Magical Moment) and we took some pictures in the lobby of the Poly.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0811.jpg

A quick monorail ride over and then I took some really bad, but gratuitous pictures of the lobby of the Grand Floridian:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0814.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0815.jpg

After this morning's experience with the whole cheesy bacon grab and then reaction from Megan, I was prepared for a longer wait to talk to the chef. The wait wasn't nearly as long and the chef was awesome! He took me around the entire buffet, pointing out what she could and couldn't have. He offered to make extra food for her (can't remember what now), but I think we had all that she needed at the buffet. We had a great, allergy-incident free meal which was so nice and so reassuring for us.

Completely off topic of WDW, but still on allergies, we just spent a few days at Wisconsin Dells for spring break. We went off-site twice for meals, talked to them about Megan's allergies, was reassured it would be ok only to have her react. Sigh, we weren't in Disney World anymore. And to all you DisDad's lurking along, please know that it was 100% middlepat's fault as I would have happily driven down to WDW. Although the idea of the crowds during spring break is frightening.

All of our pictures looked the same as Megan was pretty much stuck in her high chair. Cinderella was the first to our table and the one that the girls were most excited to see. You can see from Mary's face, she was feeling worse and worse.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0816.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0817.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0818.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0819.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%202/DSCN0820.jpg

Mary asked to go shortly after she finished dinner, so I took her back to the room. Middlepat, Megan and Shannon showed up a little while later and we all went to bed.

[tinkerbells mum]

glad you're back, love the photos with the ugly step sisters i think this is going to have to be a must do when we go xx

[kellyw8863]

Yah! Another update! I love the pics of the girls with the stepsisters, though I'm sorry Mary was feeling poorly. I'm glad to see the girls in their princess dresses, as we were planning on doing the same but I wasn't quite sure what was..."typical", for lack of a better word. We have reservations for dinner there, and I can't wait!

[mickeystoontown]

So glad to see you back and posting. Poor Mary, you can tell that she just didn't feel good. But, the girls still look so cute.

[sleepy01020]

Just found your trip report. You have a beautiful family! Can't wait to read more!

[Captain_Oblivious]

Completely off topic of WDW, but still on allergies, we just spent a few days at Wisconsin Dells for spring break. We went off-site twice for meals, talked to them about Megan's allergies, was reassured it would be ok only to have her react. Sigh, we weren't in Disney World anymore. And to all you DisDad's lurking along, please know that it was 100% middlepat's fault as I would have happily driven down to WDW. Although the idea of the crowds during spring break is frightening.





The girls look cute in their dresses...sorry Mary wasn't feeling so good.

100% his fault? Wow, that's pretty heavy. Not even 98%? Maybe we'll have to create a new DIS Dads Man Law: if you're planning on going to Wisconsin Dells, just skip it and head to Disney.

[FreezinRafiki]

We have a bunch pictures like that - DS is stuck in the high chair while DD and the character stand around him. Finally, he's tall enough to sit in a normal chair where he can jump up for hugs too! Don't worry, Megan's time will come too!
Did you have the Strawberry Soup? I think I had 3 bowls when we ate there!

[FreezinRafiki]

The girls look cute in their dresses...sorry Mary wasn't feeling so good.

100% his fault? Wow, that's pretty heavy. Not even 98%? Maybe we'll have to create a new DIS Dads Man Law: if you're planning on going to Wisconsin Dells, just skip it and head to Disney.

Hey now, let's not go knocking "the Dells" (as us locals call it). I mean, yeah, there are 75 or so shops where you can get the same t-shirts, "authentic" Native American goods, and 75 cent plastic toys that cost $9.99. But the rest of it is pretty cool.

[erika412]

glad you're back, love the photos with the ugly step sisters i think this is going to have to be a must do when we go xx

They were a riot. I think the girls were a little bit young (Mary might not have been but since she wasn't feeling well she wasn't into it) to fully enjoy how crazy they were.

Yah! Another update! I love the pics of the girls with the stepsisters, though I'm sorry Mary was feeling poorly. I'm glad to see the girls in their princess dresses, as we were planning on doing the same but I wasn't quite sure what was..."typical", for lack of a better word. We have reservations for dinner there, and I can't wait!

We saw a lot of kids dressed up for character meals and even throughout the park. Later in the week, we had breakfast at the castle. The girls wore their dresses to it and then kept them on for the day.

So glad to see you back and posting. Poor Mary, you can tell that she just didn't feel good. But, the girls still look so cute.

Thanks!

Just found your trip report. You have a beautiful family! Can't wait to read more!

Thank you!

The girls look cute in their dresses...sorry Mary wasn't feeling so good.

100% his fault? Wow, that's pretty heavy. Not even 98%? Maybe we'll have to create a new DIS Dads Man Law: if you're planning on going to Wisconsin Dells, just skip it and head to Disney.

Nope, it was 100% his fault. My parents, shister and her kids were actually at WDW while we were at the Dells. Now, I fully admit that my sister is a PITA to travel with and be around for 24 hours a day/7 days a week, but they were at DISNEY WORLD. Um, hello.

So, I try to convince Middlepat. We're already spending money to go to the Dells, why not upgrade a bit at go to WDW. He started muttering something about vacation time, and financial mumbo jumbo. And on to the fact that going to WDW with my family would have been SO HARD because they go maybe 2-3 times only when they are in Orlando. Then they go from like 10am to 3pm only. It would have killed us.


We have a bunch pictures like that - DS is stuck in the high chair while DD and the character stand around him. Finally, he's tall enough to sit in a normal chair where he can jump up for hugs too! Don't worry, Megan's time will come too!
Did you have the Strawberry Soup? I think I had 3 bowls when we ate there!

No, we missed that. It sounds really good though.

Hey now, let's not go knocking "the Dells" (as us locals call it). I mean, yeah, there are 75 or so shops where you can get the same t-shirts, "authentic" Native American goods, and 75 cent plastic toys that cost $9.99. But the rest of it is pretty cool.

Well, I wasn't fully knocking the Dells, but pretty much all of WI. :rolleyes1
(I know you were replying to Captain Oblivious but had to get my dig in.)

[FreezinRafiki]

Well, I wasn't fully knocking the Dells, but pretty much all of WI. :rolleyes1
(I know you were replying to Captain Oblivious but had to get my dig in.)

It's the hills, isn't it? It's OK, being from Illinois, it's natural for you to confused and even a little bit frightened when you see natural rises and falls in the surface of the earth. I can assure you that hills (mountains, even!) are totally normal up here and you'll get used to them eventually. :rotfl2::lmao::rotfl:

[erika412]

Those are hills?

I was always under the impression that the hills are what we drive over on our way to WDW.

Or are you trying to explain all the strip club signs on the way to the Dells? You know, the "Hills", wink, wink.

[erika412]

Moving on from the strip club loving neighbors to the north of us, let's get back to this TR! ;)

Day 3 was our Animal Kingdom day. We had an early breakfast reservation at Donald's Safari Breakfast. This will be a pretty heavy picture day- probably to make up for my lack of pictures from the day before because I forgot- I mean middlepat forgot to remind me- the camera.

Instead of waiting around for Disney's transportation, we just went out to our car and drove over to the AK. It was very nice having the car!

We parked in the lot. See, we're the green van.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0821.jpg

I know, I know, why the heck is she posting a picture of her car in the parking lot-- but wait until you check out the rest of the lot!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0822.jpg

We made our way in through the turnstiles after convincing them that we really did have early breakfast reservations and saw *this*

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0823.jpg

Once we got closer to the Tree, there was a couple there taking pictures of each other. Being that I am actually a very nice person (contrary to what middlepat and some of his DisDads friends might say :lmao:) and was in the Disney spirit, I offered to take a picture of them together. So then they took one of us together.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0824.jpg

On the way to check in for breakfast, I saw some pretty flowers.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0825.jpg

Then when we were waiting in line for our Donald picture, I took a few pictures of the girls.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0826.jpg

Let me rephrase that, the girls and middlepat's arm.

Here's a better one, less arm and less goofy smile from Mary- who by the way was feeling better. The necklaces were bought off of etsy. Each day Tinkerbell left a necklace with a different princess on it for the girls. I'm sad to say that the majority of the necklaces were either broken during the trip or soon after we got home. They may be cute little girls, but they are destructive little creatures.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0827.jpg

Once seated, we again waited a bit for the chef (not nearly as long as our first breakfast so it was fine.) When he came, he took me around the buffet again trying to find something that Megan could eat. Breakfast is a hard meal- a lot of it seems centered around dairy and butter. And back then we were worried about eggs too. She has since grown out of eggs, but still won't eat them. I was able to get her favorite- some bacon- dry cereal, and some fruit. He also offered to make me a special waffle for her which we'd see again, but it worked well. She was eating and happy. At 2 you can't ask for much more- well aside from the big guy coming to your table.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0828.jpg

Well, maybe she was a little more into her food. :rotfl: She gave Daisy a bit more attention:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0829.jpg

for a second until she decided to eat some more.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0830.jpg

Goofy came by to say hi. I think Megan either kissed or touched his nose. I was busy taking pictures and missed it- and so did the camera. I think Goofy also made a big deal about our autograph books which I made from help from the DisSign's forum.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0831.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0832.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0833.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0834.jpg

[tinkerbells mum]

the girls look so cute in their matching t shirts xx

[FreezinRafiki]

Moving on from the strip club loving neighbors to the north of us, let's get back to this TR! ;)

Don't forget fireworks stands and cheese shops! We love those too!


I know, I know, why the heck is she posting a picture of her car in the parking lot-- but wait until you check out the rest of the lot!

I love getting to the parks early. So peaceful before they get totally crazy with people. Now if only I could get DW and the kids up and out of bed in the morning...:sad2:


Well, maybe she was a little more into her food. :rotfl: She gave Daisy a bit more attention

for a second until she decided to eat some more.

You're lucky she's eating. My DD will watch the characters walk around the dining room, hoping they come to our table next, and totally ignore her food.

[Captain_Oblivious]

Moving on from the strip club loving neighbors to the north of us, let's get back to this TR! ;)

No! Keep bickering! ;)

Once we got closer to the Tree, there was a couple there taking pictures of each other. Being that I am actually a very nice person (contrary to what middlepat and some of his DisDads friends might say :lmao:) ...

Not at all! You seem very nice. We'll keep our insults reserved for middlepat. :thumbsup2

[KristyBDJ]

Don't forget fireworks stands and cheese shops! We love those too!

OMG! So true...we also have our fair share of "Adult Book Stores"!:rotfl2:

By the way...loving the TR! And wanted to add my two cents on your daughter's kidney problems. My dad is celebrating his 23 year kidney transplant anniversary! The dr.'s are still amazed! My aunt was an angel, and a perfect match, and gave him a kidney without ever questioning the decision.:littleangel: Anyway, just wanted to let you know that things can work out. I hope that since she's doing well things stay that way but even if it changes there will always be hope! :cheer2:

[middlepat]

Moving on from the strip club loving neighbors to the north of us, let's get back to this TR! ;)


Sorry, Barry. I can't control her. I don't know what she's talking about.

This will be a pretty heavy picture day- probably to make up for my lack of pictures from the day before because I forgot- I mean middlepat forgot to remind me- the camera.

Apparently I was negligent again. Sorry everyone.


Instead of waiting around for Disney's transportation, we just went out to our car and drove over to the AK. It was very nice having the car!


Fed, gotta love the van!!! :rotfl2:


http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0821.jpg



Once we got closer to the Tree, there was a couple there taking pictures of each other. Being that I am actually a very nice person (contrary to what middlepat and some of his DisDads friends might say :lmao:) and was in the Disney spirit, I offered to take a picture of them together. So then they took one of us together.


Really, she threatened them within an inch of their lives. I think we still have the bodies buried around here somewhere. :lmao:



On the way to check in for breakfast, I saw some pretty flowers.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0825.jpg

Nevermind the butterfly in the center of the picture.... :rolleyes1


Let me rephrase that, the girls and middlepat's arm.

Great looking arm! :thumbsup2

[erika412]

Nevermind the butterfly in the center of the picture.... :rolleyes1

Ah, cr*p, I couldn't remember why I had taken that picture. If I had a better camera it might have been clearer, but along with no dog, and no trip to Disney, middlepat won't let me buy a better camera. I have no idea why I put up with him.

[middlepat]

Don't forget fireworks stands and cheese shops! We love those too!


Of course, the cheese shops, how can we forget the cheese shops... or as Megan will learn to call them... Allergy Heck. (this is a family TR)


I love getting to the parks early. So peaceful before they get totally crazy with people. Now if only I could get DW and the kids up and out of bed in the morning...:sad2:

:rolleyes1 popcorn::


You're lucky she's eating. My DD will watch the characters walk around the dining room, hoping they come to our table next, and totally ignore her food.

No issue with my offspring being distracted away from food. :lmao:



Not at all! You seem very nice. We'll keep our insults reserved for middlepat. :thumbsup2

Thanks Captain. I appreciate your support. :mad: :rotfl2:

[erika412]

the girls look so cute in their matching t shirts xx

Thanks! Those were also courtesy of the DISign forum here. Someone creative (aka not me) did the design and then I just printed them on to a transfer and ironed them on the shirts.

[erika412]

OMG! So true...we also have our fair share of "Adult Book Stores"!:rotfl2:

By the way...loving the TR! And wanted to add my two cents on your daughter's kidney problems. My dad is celebrating his 23 year kidney transplant anniversary! The dr.'s are still amazed! My aunt was an angel, and a perfect match, and gave him a kidney without ever questioning the decision.:littleangel: Anyway, just wanted to let you know that things can work out. I hope that since she's doing well things stay that way but even if it changes there will always be hope! :cheer2:

Thanks! I love hearing things like this! It gives me a lot of hope if she ever needs a transplant.

[erika412]

After Megan and Middlepat completely gorged themselves on breakfast (hey, he said it, not me!), we decided to walk over to the Safari. It was still pretty early and we were making good time.

The girls stopped to play some drums. I took some pictures with my phone so they aren't great.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/IMG_0393.jpg

Megan was saying "My drum!" to this little girl. I guess she's used to her sisters taking over everything that she's doing. Also, at the little toddler preschool she goes to for a couple hours three days a week, they teach the kids the concept of "My work" right away. Good in the classroom so no wanna be picaso comes and destroys your painting, but not so good at Disney World where your kid ends up looking like a bully.:lmao:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/IMG_0394.jpg

She sufficiently scared away the girl and was very proud of herself.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/IMG_0396.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/IMG_0395.jpg

I almost forgot about Mary who was happily playing in the background. She is wearing my sunglasses because I just don't have the "My work" concept right when it comes to the kids. (maybe one of these days I will be able to go to the bathroom without one of them barging in.)

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/IMG_0397.jpg

After leaving the drums, we head on over to a quick line for the Safari. We somehow bypassed a bunch of people at loading which didn't really make sense to me, but whatever, we'll take it.

Here is basically the only good picture I got on the whole ride.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0836.jpg

I tried to get some of the animals, but when you're working with a point and click, well, let's just say your pointing and clicking can be off. Especially when you're dealing with a 2 year old in a moving, bumping vehicle.

Getting of the safari, we got stopped for a picture or two.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0024.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0025.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0026.jpg

I hate these goofy shots. I don't know why because when I look at other people's pictures, they look fine and some silly shots make me laugh, but they bug me when I have to do them.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0028.jpg

After the Safari, we ran into this guy. It was pretty cool seeing Flik as he was a character I hadn't seen before.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0842.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0843.jpg

Right after meeting Flik, we saw a character line up for Baloo and King Louie in a little path off the main path. They had Photopass people there too. So, we get in line.

Guess who I noticed while we were in line. Had we kept walking, we would have run right into her-

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0844.jpg

Yes, that is DiVine's backside. I know that it isn't as unique anymore to see her, but I had never so I thought it was pretty cool.

Then it was time to meet Baloo and King Louie. The first pictures are mine- I think I was zoning more on Megan and her reaction to them than trying to get Baloo's head in the picture. :rolleyes1 I also honestly think Megan might have done something with my camera when I was letting her play with it on or before the Safari. Yes, I have three girls that are wearing pink, but the pictures are a little extra pink.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0845.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0846.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0847.jpg


continued in next post because I have too many pictures.

[erika412]

And now for the professional shots:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0029.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0030.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0031.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0032.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0033.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0034.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0035.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0036.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0037.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/photopass%20day%203/Image0038.jpg

I know that was a whole bunch of pictures, but I love watching Megan change from shot to shot. Shannon also cracks me up- at first she was trying to pose all lady-like but then eventually gave it up.

Did you happen to notice my red Mickey Crocs in the picture? I only wear them in Orlando and while gardening! :rotfl: Honestly though, not this trip, but the one before it, my feet were hurting horribly. I decided to try out the crocs and they were awesome. I just haven't made them into a daily part of my life.

Next we went to Shannon's favorite attraction in all of Animal Kingdom. Any guesses?

[mickeystoontown]

I had to laugh when you said Megan wanted to run the other little girl from "her drum". I remember my son did something similar when he was little except it was one of those little water squirter thingies that come up from the ground.

I hate that you didn't get any safari pics. Did you at least see get to see many animals?

Flik! I haven't seen Flik in 2 years. We love him! And the pictures with Baloo and King Louie are adorable!

[FreezinRafiki]

Megan was saying "My drum!" to this little girl. I guess she's used to her sisters taking over everything that she's doing. Also, at the little toddler preschool she goes to for a couple hours three days a week, they teach the kids the concept of "My work" right away. Good in the classroom so no wanna be picaso comes and destroys your painting, but not so good at Disney World where your kid ends up looking like a bully.:lmao:

It's not a bad thing to have a little thug in the family!


Then it was time to meet Baloo and King Louie. The first pictures are mine- I think I was zoning more on Megan and her reaction to them than trying to get Baloo's head in the picture. :rolleyes1 I also honestly think Megan might have done something with my camera when I was letting her play with it on or before the Safari. Yes, I have three girls that are wearing pink, but the pictures are a little extra pink.

The lighting in that area is horrible. They block out any natural light with the trees and the shelter, then stick in some artificial lights. It makes for very difficult picture taking. :sad2:
The girls looked like they were having a good time, and that matters more than a professional quality photo. :thumbsup2


Did you happen to notice my red Mickey Crocs in the picture? I only wear them in Orlando and while gardening! :rotfl: Honestly though, not this trip, but the one before it, my feet were hurting horribly. I decided to try out the crocs and they were awesome. I just haven't made them into a daily part of my life.

I have a pair of black Mickey Crocs. I'll wear them around the house and out running errands. They're super comfortable, but I've never warn them at Disney. I never had a problem with my shoes, so I never wanted to temp fate and switch.


Next we went to Shannon's favorite attraction in all of Animal Kingdom. Any guesses?[/SIZE]
Flame Tree BBQ!!
Oh wait, that's my favorite attraction. Shannon's must be.....Finding Nemo: The Musical?

[middlepat]

It's not a bad thing to have a little thug in the family!


I'm with ya Barry, besides I'm too afraid to tell her she's out of the family. She'll just tell me "NO!" :rotfl2:


I have a pair of black Mickey Crocs. I'll wear them around the house and out running errands. They're super comfortable, but I've never warn them at Disney.

I have a pair of these as well, but I also just wear them around the yard in the summer. Great garden shoes.


Flame Tree BBQ!!
Oh wait, that's my favorite attraction. Shannon's must be.....Finding Nemo: The Musical?

I'll just say.... WAY OFF!!!! You've gonna be shocked when its revealed. :eek:

[FreezinRafiki]

So, Middlepat, have you given any thought to coming down to WDW in December?

[middlepat]

So, Middlepat, have you given any thought to coming down to WDW in December?

Not sure... why do you ask Barry? :confused3

[Captain_Oblivious]

I'll just say.... WAY OFF!!!! You've gonna be shocked when its revealed. :eek:

Triceratops Spin! Everyone loves that one! :rolleyes1

[praisehisname]

Fabulous updates and pics!


Next we went to Shannon's favorite attraction in all of Animal Kingdom. Any guesses?

It's Tough To Be A Bug? :confused3

[jillianml]

I am looking forward to reading your report!

[erika412]

A couple summers ago, we visited Middlepat's family in Edmonton, Alberta. One day was spent at the zoo, which is a far cry from Brookfield Zoo, but the girls still loved it. Shannon was interested in the snowy owl and on our way out, bought a stuffed animal one. She named her Lucy after the main attraction of the zoo, Lucy the Elephant.

Shannon has slept with Lucy almost every night since. The couple of nights we didn't have her (forgotten at my mom's or if Lucy was in the "bath") have resulted in tears. Shannon is a bit of a drama queen and was scared of the dark when she first got her. We told her since Lucy is an owl, she stays awake while Shannon sleeps and takes care of her. For Shannon's 6th birthday next month, she wanted a friend for Lucy, so we went with a whole owl theme. I think she is going to love it.

Getting back to Disney and the trip report... our next stop HAD to be Flights of Wonder. I took quite a few pictures during the presentation, but my two favorite ones I'm framing for her birthday. She and I went up after the show to take a closer look at the owl.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0856.jpg

And then she wanted her picture taken with it.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0857.jpg

Some other good pictures from the show:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0848.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0849.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0850.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0851.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0852.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0853.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0854.jpg

Megan liked the "birdies" too, but I think Mary was a little bored at times.

Next we went on the Tiger Walk and I let Mary take my camera. These next few pictures are hers. I love how she took pictures of things I didn't notice.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0858.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0859.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0860.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0861.jpg

Lunch is coming up in a few minutes...

[erika412]

We were so looking forward to our first table service restaurant. And we were really looking forward to the food at Yak and Yeti's. After checking in for our ADR, we were seated very quickly- just enough time to park the stroller.

Our waiter (can't remember his name) was great and dealt with Megan's allergy with no problems. When food was placed on the table, he even made sure it wasn't within her reach. For her, we were able to order a plain chicken breast, rice and either broccoli or carrot sticks, we can't remember. She loved it though because rice is one of her favorite foods.

For appetizers, Middlepat had Seared Ahi Tuna - Chilled, sesame-encrusted ahi tuna, wasabi aioli, and sweet chili slaw. He says it was very good and the following picture is missing an entire piece because he ate it before we could get the camera out.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0871.jpg

I followed the recommendations here and went with the Wok-Fried Green Beans - Battered green beans with sweet Thai chili sauce. While they were very good, I'm not a huge green bean fan and should have just ordered something different. But after reading about them here, I just had to try them.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0872.jpg

For entrees, Middlepat had Lo Mein - Lo mein noodles, carrots, cabbage, green onions and bean sprouts. Served with chicken.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0874.jpg

and I had Crispy Honey Chicken (Picture) - Tempura chicken, broccoli, carrots and honey sauce. which was excellent.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0873.jpg

For desset we both got the same one- kind of silly, but oh well.

Sorbet - Enjoy a taste of each flavor: mango, lemon and raspberry.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0875.jpg

Shannon had no clue why were taking pictures of food at this point and wanted to take a picture of her dessert too-

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0877.jpg

I think she liked it.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0878.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0879.jpg

Over all, we were very happy with Yak & Yetti and would recommend it if you like Asian (ish) food.

And just for fun, one of my more favorite pictures of Megan from the trip.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0867.jpg

[burly]

We always enjoy Yak and Yeti...:)

[Captain_Oblivious]

It's always fun to give the kids a camera and see where it leads, isn't it? I love the pictures of Shannon eating her dessert, too! :thumbsup2

[mickeystoontown]

Your pictures from Flights of Wonder are great. In all of the times we have visited the Animal Kingdom, we have never seen the show. Your pictures make me want to change up our touring plans and add it.

I used to give our son and daughter disposable cameras and let them take as many pictures as they wanted. It's neat to see their perspective.

We haven't tried Yak & Yeti because we aren't big Asian food lovers. But, again, your pictures make me want to give it a try. You really should post your food pictures over on the Disney Food Picture thread. I think somebody recently asked to see pictures of Yak & Yeti.

[erika412]

We always enjoy Yak and Yeti...:)

I think it is my favorite place in the Animal Kingdom now. I'll have more about that on my trip report recap...

It's always fun to give the kids a camera and see where it leads, isn't it? I love the pictures of Shannon eating her dessert, too! :thumbsup2

I wish I had just given her the extra digital we have to use during the trip. I didn't think of it beforehand, but will in the future.

Your pictures from Flights of Wonder are great. In all of the times we have visited the Animal Kingdom, we have never seen the show. Your pictures make me want to change up our touring plans and add it.

I used to give our son and daughter disposable cameras and let them take as many pictures as they wanted. It's neat to see their perspective.

We haven't tried Yak & Yeti because we aren't big Asian food lovers. But, again, your pictures make me want to give it a try. You really should post your food pictures over on the Disney Food Picture thread. I think somebody recently asked to see pictures of Yak & Yeti.

Flights of Wonder was a pretty good show. It was a pleasant surprise actually. I knew Shannon would enjoy it, but aside from Mary, I think we all liked it.

You should try Y&Y at least once!

[FreezinRafiki]

We have a digital camera that is advertised as waterproof and can be dropped from 5 feet without damage. We'll hand it to the kids and let them take pictures and test out the durability!
I'd love to try Yak and Yeti some day - unfortunately several of my family members (read: everyone but me) don't eat Asian-ish food. :sad2: Great pictures, though. Now I'm hungry.

Every night when we tuck Madison in to bed, she makes sure we but her stuffed animals on "bad dream duty". They stay away and keep the bad dreams away!

[erika412]

We have a digital camera that is advertised as waterproof and can be dropped from 5 feet without damage. We'll hand it to the kids and let them take pictures and test out the durability!
I'd love to try Yak and Yeti some day - unfortunately several of my family members (read: everyone but me) don't eat Asian-ish food. :sad2: Great pictures, though. Now I'm hungry.

Every night when we tuck Madison in to bed, she makes sure we but her stuffed animals on "bad dream duty". They stay away and keep the bad dreams away!

I need one of those cameras!

See, that's why you need us to go in December-- we'll do Yak and Yeti with you . I'm sure Bambi could use a break from you once in a while. You can always come down to Chicago too this summer and we'll BBQ for everyone else but order Thai or Chinese for you. :rotfl:

That air fare deal you got slowly has Middlepat's wheels turning again on how much it would cost us.

[FreezinRafiki]

I need one of those cameras!

See, that's why you need us to go in December-- we'll do Yak and Yeti with you . I'm sure Bambi could use a break from you once in a while. You can always come down to Chicago too this summer and we'll BBQ for everyone else but order Thai or Chinese for you. :rotfl:

That air fare deal you got slowly has Middlepat's wheels turning again on how much it would cost us.

Ours is an Olympus Stylus 770 SW. They don't sell them anymore. It has been replaced by their Stylus Tough product line: http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/cpg_digital.asp?section=stylustough

Not sure if you saw the details of my airfare deal, but here they are:
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36239443&postcount=396

A BBQ sounds like fun. If we do make it down, we'll be sure to leave our cheese at home. :thumbsup2

[erika412]

I forgot all about Dinoland.

Whoops, I forgot that we went to Dinoland. I guess that shows you how much I enjoyed it.:confused3

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0880.jpg

The girls played some games (I have no idea what, Middlepat??). Then we went on a ride- TriceraTop Spin. I decided to sit in the front elephant, I mean magic carpet, I mean dinosaur. I thought I could take come cute pictures.

Or at least pictures of Middlepat looking like he's in the Happiest Place on Earth.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0881.jpg

Ah, there's a smile!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0882.jpg

I wish this picture wasn't as fuzzy- it would have been really cute!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0883.jpg

So, here is where we decided to go back to the Poly and swim. See why I barely remembered it?

[erika412]

So, after thoroughly enjoying our meal (I mean going to Dinoland), we were debating about what to do next. We've seen all the shows already and even though the kids wouldn't remember them, we didn't feel like sitting through them again.

We decided to go back to the Poly and go swimming. We have never been swimming on previousr WDW trips. We are park people. We have pools here that we can go to whenever we want (uh, between Memorial Day and Labor Day of course.) Why waste precious park time in a pool?

But we decided to go and have a nice, quiet relaxing time at the pool. I was bummed because the slide was closed. Our girls are decent swimmers. They have been in lessons for a few years now. Megan is our fish though. She's only 2 and a half and jumps in, goes under water, swims to me and then swims back to the wall to get out and do it all over again. Mary and Shannon are OK swimmers. They go off the diving board at the pool and can get to the wall, but aren't going to win any swim meets any time soon.

So, we're swimming there and the older girls are off playing in the water. Middlepat and I are passing Megan back and forth. I have my eye on everyone. All of a sudden Mary jumps in, realizes she can't stand and freaks out. I'm far enough away from her that she's struggling a little bit. I go towards her as the same time a lifeguard blows her whistle and jumps in. We get to Mary at the same time. The lifeguard says "Where's your parents?" and I said "I'm right here." and that was about it.

One thing that annoyed me and I'm not sure what the joke was- is that after that the remaining lifeguards kept looking over at us and each other and laughing. I couldn't make out what they were saying so they could have easily been saying "Poor LifeguardWhateverHerNameWas, she just had to rescue another kid an hour ago, It always happens on her watch." But that isn't the vibe I got.

We decided to cut out shortly after because Mary obviously wasn't quite herself still (she wouldn't have become so upset in the pool had she been feeling 100%.) We also had dinner reservations at Ohana. My favorite!

[middlepat]

[SIZE="3"]
The girls played some games (I have no idea what, Middlepat??).

If I remember correctly it was a Dinosaur themed carnival game, but I can't be certain.

:confused3

[erika412]

If I remember correctly it was a Dinosaur themed carnival game, but I can't be certain.

:confused3

Gee, Thanks. That's helpful. :thumbsup2
You're supposed to be my memory. You knew that getting into this.

[FreezinRafiki]

Ah, there's a smile!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0882.jpg
Ummm...I think that's just gas. :rotfl2:

Gee, Thanks. That's helpful. :thumbsup2
You're supposed to be my memory. You knew that getting into this.

Don't feel bad, Middlepat. My wife nagged me in my TR too. :sad2: :rotfl2::lmao:

We've only gone back to swim once in any of our trips. As fun and relaxing as it, it just seems like you're wasting 3 hours. :confused3

[erika412]

The first time we went to 'Ohana on the trip previous to this one, we didn't have that great of an experience. We were seated off in that other little room and missed the "show" aspect of it. Shannon also started to get sick there, burning up with a fever. We spent most of the dinner worrying about her and what to do. We were staying on property and didn't have a car. We knew she needed to be seen by a doctor. It all worked out thanks to the Poly staff. We saw a doctor, she got a prescription for an ear infection and was much better by the next day. We seriously do not go on any trips without one of our kids getting very sick. Going backwards-- Hawaii '10, Disney '09, Canada '08, Disney '07, Dominican Republic '06, see a trend here? We were at a care center during all those trips aside from Disney 09 and Canada 08. And yes, Megan has kidney problems, but she was never the reason. It was the other two "healthy" kids.

Anyway, I think we didn't pay any attention to what we were eating while at 'Ohana and rushed out of there. So this trip became 'Ohana attempt #2.

I loved it. The food was so good. We had a better table and Shannon really got into the show. Mary cried at a couple of times. I think the limbo and the coconut races were hard for her. She was tired and like I said, she still wasn't herself.

Megan, even with her dairy allergy, could have a lot of the food. The Chef came to our table and discussed what she could and couldn't have. He was excellent. I wish I got his name because I would have loved to write a letter once we got home. He definitely went above and beyond for her. He made a fabulous dessert for her which I'll explain in a bit, but he also brought her some jasmine rice and she was in heaven. She also loved the pork. She ate four, yes, FOUR pieces of pork from the skewers. She was piling it in so fast that Middlepat could barely keep up with cutting it for her.

Look how happy!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0889.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0890.jpg

And the girls having fun-

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0887.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0888.jpg

So, it was time for dessert. Our Banana bread pudding came out. Delish. But the chef walked up to the table with Megan's dessert. Her eyes got so huge!

He made a skyscraper of fruit, marshmallows and rice ice cream for her with a little Hershey's chocolate sauce (which I learned that night was dairy free.)

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0897.jpg

I can't put it into words how it felt to see her enjoy that dessert. Yes, the trip was about her kidneys, but she also deals with her food allergies. Desserts are so difficult with a dairy allergy because almost everything is made with milk. She loves fruit so that is what she has most often. But here was something special, just for her that she could have. It brought tears to my eyes. And still kind of does. :love:

'Ohana has become a very happy place for me. I want to convince Middlepat that I'd like to make it a tradition to have it as our first dinner in future trips. I think it would be a great way to start off the trip.

On the way back from dinner, we stopped in the lobby of the Poly for a picture. Megan kind of looks like the red-headed step child in that shot. :lmao:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0899.jpg

We headed back to the room and into bed for the night.

[erika412]

Ummm...I think that's just gas. :rotfl2:

It does kind of seem like he's pushing *something* in that first shot now that you mention it.

[middlepat]

[SIZE="3"]
Megan, even with her dairy allergy, could have a lot of the food. The Chef came to our table and discussed what she could and couldn't have. He was excellent. I wish I got his name because I would have loved to write a letter once we got home. He definitely went above and beyond for her. He made a fabulous dessert for her which I'll explain in a bit, but he also brought her some jasmine rice and she was in heaven. She also loved the pork. She ate four, yes, FOUR pieces of pork from the skewers. She was piling it in so fast that Middlepat could barely keep up with cutting it for her.


She was getting demanding too. At one point I was trying to actually cut some food for myself and she looked and me and said "MORE!"


Look how happy!

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0889.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0890.jpg


OK it was worth it. :lovestruc

So, it was time for dessert. Our Banana bread pudding came out. Delish. But the chef walked up to the table with Megan's dessert. Her eyes got so huge!

He made a skyscraper of fruit, marshmallows and rice ice cream for her with a little Hershey's chocolate sauce (which I learned that night was dairy free.)

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0897.jpg

I can't put it into words how it felt to see her enjoy that dessert. Yes, the trip was about her kidneys, but she also deals with her food allergies. Desserts are so difficult with a dairy allergy because almost everything is made with milk. She loves fruit so that is what she has most often. But here was something special, just for her that she could have. It brought tears to my eyes. And still kind of does. :love:

This was definitely one of the most special moments of our Disney trip. Megan's reaction to that dessert will forever be remembered. :thumbsup2


'Ohana has become a very happy place for me. I want to convince Middlepat that I'd like to make it a tradition to have it as our first dinner in future trips. I think it would be a great way to start off the trip.

As an official Meataterian I'm on board! :thumbsup2:cool1:

[sleepy01020]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0897.jpg

I can't put it into words how it felt to see her enjoy that dessert. Yes, the trip was about her kidneys, but she also deals with her food allergies. Desserts are so difficult with a dairy allergy because almost everything is made with milk. She loves fruit so that is what she has most often. But here was something special, just for her that she could have. It brought tears to my eyes. And still kind of does. :love:


That desert looks yummy! We done Ohana for breakfast, looks like its time to try it for dinner.
Loving your report! Your family looks like they're having a great time!

[erika412]

She was getting demanding too. At one point I was trying to actually cut some food for myself and she looked and me and said "MORE!"

I didn't know that! :lmao:

OK it was worth it. :lovestruc
That's exactly what you said when our Disney Sanctioned Magical Moment happened.

As an official Meataterian I'm on board! :thumbsup2:cool1:
Yay! I have SUCH good ideas I amaze myself.

[erika412]

That desert looks yummy! We done Ohana for breakfast, looks like its time to try it for dinner.
Loving your report! Your family looks like they're having a great time!

Thanks! We did Ohana a couple of days later for breakfast too. The food at dinner was excellent and I highly recommend it.

[erika412]

Our fourth day in the Happiest Place on Earth was a scheduled Epcot day. But first we had to eat breakfast with Chef Mickey. We've eaten at Chef Mickey's before in the past and decided to return just for the characters. We took the Monorail over to the Contemporary.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0901.jpg

Goofy was at our table first, and he hung around for some pictures.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0902.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0904.jpg

The big guy was next:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0906.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0908.jpg

And Megan's favorite- Minnie.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0911.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0914.jpg

She really liked our autograph books. In fact a lot of the characters mentioned/pointed to them and gave us a thumbs up.

Pluto was a huge favorite.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0917.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0923.jpg

In regards to the food at Chef Mickey's, since we had already eaten there on a previous trip, we knew what to expect. We waited a bit for the Chef to come by and she was very accommodating. She made Megan and allergy-free waffle, but Megan was happy with the bacon and fruit as usual.

After breakfast, we hopped back on the Monorail and went to Epcot.

[SunnieRN]

Well, I'm late to the party, but I must say it is a blast!!! Your family is adorable and you are all so photogenic, with fantastic smiles! On our last trip, my grandson stuck his tongue out in EVERY picture and laughed about it the whole time. (He had just turned 4)

I feel a kinship with Megan as I have renal failure, I am just not on dialysis yet. So far I have beaten the prognosis of 2 years, as it has been three and my nephrologist says it may be two more!!

I love your leisurely pace, letting the girls lead the way!! You accomplish a lot without temper tantrums or other problems!:thumbsup2

The t-shirts, tutu's and princess dresses are all adorable! I am looking foreward to your continuing journey! Great haircuts by the way!!

In the words of Megan "More!!!" (trip report please!) And I am very happy we have Ohanas booked!

[Captain_Oblivious]

mmmm...Ohana looks good. Haven't tried that one yet. And can Megan open her mouth any wider? :lmao: I guess she really did love the food!

Thanks for sharing all the pictures!

[mickeystoontown]

What fun updates! I am sure that Megan felt really special with the Chefs bringing out food items just for her. We haven't tried Ohana's yet but will someday.

[erika412]

mmmm...Ohana looks good. Haven't tried that one yet. And can Megan open her mouth any wider? :lmao: I guess she really did love the food!

Thanks for sharing all the pictures!

She was cracking me up licking the broccoli like that.

Well, I'm late to the party, but I must say it is a blast!!! Your family is adorable and you are all so photogenic, with fantastic smiles! On our last trip, my grandson stuck his tongue out in EVERY picture and laughed about it the whole time. (He had just turned 4)

I feel a kinship with Megan as I have renal failure, I am just not on dialysis yet. So far I have beaten the prognosis of 2 years, as it has been three and my nephrologist says it may be two more!!

I love your leisurely pace, letting the girls lead the way!! You accomplish a lot without temper tantrums or other problems!:thumbsup2

The t-shirts, tutu's and princess dresses are all adorable! I am looking foreward to your continuing journey! Great haircuts by the way!!

In the words of Megan "More!!!" (trip report please!) And I am very happy we have Ohanas booked!

Hi Sunny, You're not late at all. As you will see, it takes me forever to get an update out. I'm so sorry to hear about your renal failure, but am so glad you seem to be kicking its butt.

Our leisurely pace got Middlepat and I a little worried early on in the week. I was afraid that we were taking things too slowly and would run out of time. Well, I guess the last day of a Disney vacation always comes with you wanting more and not feeling like you had enough time there. We don't do commando though. That wouldn't be fun for anyone.

What fun updates! I am sure that Megan felt really special with the Chefs bringing out food items just for her. We haven't tried Ohana's yet but will someday.

When you try it, make sure you are hungry! It is a ton of food. :eek:

[erika412]

Since we already did Soarin' on our first night, we decided to skip it and headed to The Seas with Nemo & Friends. The last time we were at Walt Disney World, I think we went on the "Nemo Ride" about 10 times, but this trip we only did it once.

After Nemo, we took some pictures. Megan was afraid of the Shark jaw.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0925.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0930.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0932.jpg

Then we went to see Crush. On our last trip, Mary got picked to talk to him. She was speach delayed at the time and the conversation went like this:

Crush- Hey, little girl in the front, what's your name?
Mary- Mary.
(Middlepat and me getting excited that she was picked)
Crush- So, Mary, where are you from?
Mary-
Crush- Uh, are Mary's parents here?
Us- Waving- we're from Chicago.

And that was that.

So, I was hoping for this trip, that she'd be picked again. Or Shannon would. But they weren't. Shannon even had a hand up for a question for most of the show. But wasn't picked.

On our way out, we stopped and Shannon asked one of the cast members her question. Shannon asked "Does the tooth fairy comes to turtles?" Mary had lost a tooth shortly before our trip and had another loose one in her mouth. The cast member said she didn't know, but that was an excellent question. It made Shannon happy. (and 5 months later, I had no idea what the question was, but asked her and she remembered. She must have really wanted to know!)

After Crush, we went on Figment and then stopped to send some emails to the grandmas. For some reason, they got around 5 copies each of the emails. We then stopped for some drinks at Club Cool and bought Megan some popcorn. Because of her dairy allergy, she's somewhat limited on snacks, but they had Kettle Corn which is dairy free. The rest of us shared a popcorn from a regular vendor. The kids had fun at Club Cool. I wish I had taken pictures, but didn't have my camera out much that day for some reason. Our kids normally don't drink pop (yes, I say "pop") so this was a treat for them, although they didn't like Beverly for some strange reason. :confused3:lmao:

We had lunch planned for Sunshine Seasons, but after walking through it on our first night there, we didn't see too much that Megan could have. Popcorn became our lunch.

After that, we decided to go to the World Showcase.

[erika412]

I have to admit that we don't spend enough time in the World Showcase. We really would like to be able to go through and look at all the little details of the countries, browse the shops, and eat the food. But we know our girls and right now they'd have a miserable time which would make it a miserable time for us. So, our goal was basically to try to Kim Possible thing, and hit Mexico and Norway for the rides.

We first saw the Christmas tree. Seems almost our of place now that it is basically May, huh?

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0935.jpg

I had to take a picture of these balls because Shannon was so cute. She kept looking at them and then said "How do those balls float in the air like that!?!?"

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%204/DSCN0936.jpg

We headed left to Mexico. The "new and improved" ride was definitely more fun for the kids. Megan really liked Donald. Like I've said previously, I'm not one to take pictures during a ride (maybe when I get a better camera when I can play with the settings versus using a point & shoot flash) so I don't have any pictures.

Our next thing was to pick up the Kimmunicators. We were assigned to Norway. Mary, Shannon and I went off trying out the mission. It was ok. For the three of us to share a Kimmunicator was hard. They both wanted turns, I couldn't hear it when they were holding it, then I had to replay it numerous times for each clue. Eventually they lost interest and basically followed me around with it. Meanwhile Brian hung out with Megan trying to keep her entertained.

We met up after completing our Mission and saving the world and decided to go for the next boat ride in Epcot. Maelstorm was a walk-on and we were quickly seated in our boats. We're on the ride, slowly going uphill when all of a sudden it stops. We sit there for forever. Someone in the boat behind us sat on the side of their boat and all of a sudden you hear "Please get back in your boat" over the speaker. It took them a little while figure out that the speaker was talking to them. A little while later, the lights came on. And we sit there for more of forever. We realized that they were emptying the boats, but because we were almost to the top of the "hill", we were the last boat to be emptied. I wish I had taken out my camera now with the lights on. We had to walk down and and out of the ride. They had us moving off of it fairly quickly without much time to look at anything. I was bummed that we didn't get a chance for the full ride because I know the girls would have loved the drop.

We walked over to China thinking that maybe we could find Mulan. She wasn't there. This day was getting to be a bust.

[kellyw8863]

He made a skyscraper of fruit, marshmallows and rice ice cream for her with a little Hershey's chocolate sauce (which I learned that night was dairy free.)

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/erika412/Disney%202009/day%203/DSCN0897.jpg

I can't put it into words how it felt to see her enjoy that dessert. Yes, the trip was about her kidneys, but she also deals with her food allergies. Desserts are so difficult with a dairy allergy because almost everything is made with milk. She loves fruit so that is what she has most often. But here was something special, just for her that she could have. It brought tears to my eyes. And still kind of does. :love:

'Ohana has become a very happy place for me. I want to convince Middlepat that I'd like to make it a tradition to have it as our first dinner in future trips. I think it would be a great way to start off the trip.



I LOVE this picture.:lovestruc How awesome is it to discover that there are so many strangers willing to go the extra mile to make sure that your child is having the time of her life?!

[praisehisname]

All caught up again! So glad you were able to fully enjoy your Ohana dinner!