The Ridemax Made Me Take That Wheelchair December 2009 Trip Report updated 4/23

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

OK!!! This trip report is long over-due! We have been back a little more than a month now. I had intended to start much sooner, but life and a broken computer got in the way! So, without further ado...HERE WE GO!!! (Can you here Peter Pan saying that??!!)

I would like to say that this first installment will be somewhat boring with only one picture. It is a bit lengthy, but informative. I promise, it will get more exciting after this! For those of you that followed the PTR, welcome back! And, if I have not caught up on your report and posted yet, I am coming...I promise! For those of you that don't know us, HELLO!!! I will give you a brief summary.

I am Erin, mother of 3. I am a stay at home mom and enjoy doing things with and for my kids. I also love scrapbooking, reading, a nice cup of tea...and an occassional beer. Basically, I can enjoy myself in the quiet or at a hopping party!

My husband is Justin (J-Pa). He is a hard worker and very loyal. We have been together since high school and he is my true love! Justin is the best father I could ever ask for my kids to have. He enjoys the outdoors, relaxing and coaching the kids.

James is our oldest child at 13. Even though he is the oldest, he will always be my baby. We have our moments...as all parents do with a teenage child. But, all in all he's a great kid. He is an excellent athlete...wrestling and baseball. We are very proud of him. When he isn't practicing or playing, he's texting or playing x-box. (Typical 13 year old boy!)

Lexi is the middle child. She is 10. She is our pleaser. Lexi likes to give hugs and is always doing something for someone. And, she is our Irish Dancer. We love it...she loves it! When she isn't dancing, she's probably reading!

Last, but certainly not least...we have Logan...Poot...the mayor! He is 5 and the funniest, most outgoing and talkative kid ever! There is no one that doesn't like Logan- he won't allow it! (Even the teacher that seemed to not like him now loves him.) Pooty has started wrestling and is already quite good. As far as his personality, you will see throughout this TR just how infectious it really is!

So, that's us and overall, we are a fun bunch that loves to laugh, joke around and live life to it's fullest! We try not to let ourselves have a dull moment, get serious when needed and make wonderful memories all the time! And, that's that in a nutshell!!

Here's a family shot from this trip so all the newbies to our family can see us and we can have a little something other than words:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0095.jpg

Before getting right into things, I will recap the specifics:

December 2-11, 2009

Split stay between POR and AKV (with an unexpected pit stop at the Contemporary!!)

Deluxe dining plan for the first half of the trip

Alright...with all that out of the way, I will get into the meat and potatoes of the trip! Well...I will do the best that I can since I took no notes and am working strictly from memory!!!

So, we left for Disney on December 2. The events of that day leading up to our departure were fairly routine. I ran some errands, packed our last minute items, helped Justin pack the car, finished cleaning...all the fun stuff to keep me busy and distracted from the clock. Soon enough, James got home from school at 3:00. We were out the door at about 3:15 (after saying good-bye to my sister-in-law and the animals). We went over to the elementary school and got the other two out about 15 minutes early and hit the road for the airport at about 3:45. Our flight was for 7:25. It takes about 1 1/2 hours to get to Philadelphia airport from our house. That gets us there at about 5:15 or 5:30...giving us two hours to check two bags, go through security and wait to board. Plenty of time!! Well....I asked several people that I know that live and / or work in that area about traffic at that time. They all told me that traffic would be bad leaving the city at that time, but not going in. So, we were gold! Plus, we had about an hour cushion just in case. So, about 1/2 hour into the trip, we hit the McDonald's drive-thru. 10 minute stop and back on the road. Still on target time-wise.

After eating, I collected everyone's garbage to get rid of it at the parking garage. We were getting so close to the airport I could hardly stand it! We had parking reservations at a lot a mile from the airport. They were charging $80 for the duration while the airport was $180. So, as we got closer, the traffic got heavier. We were about 15 miles out and came nearly to a dead stop. I tried not to panic knowing the extra time we had.

But!!!!!! As we crept along, I saw the minutes growing! Soon enough, it was 6:15 and we were still not there. Our flight was in just over one hour. We were ALL panicing! So, I called the airport...no more flights after that one...we had to be checked in by 6:55...and had 5 miles to go! Now I'm in super-panic mode! The nice gentleman at the airport gave us an alternate route and got us to the airport. So, we had to swallow the extra $100 to park at the airport plus the deposit I had already paid at the other place. But, cutting it this close gave us no other option. We didn't have time to transfer from another parking lot. Besides, spending an extra $100 was better than missing our flight, right?! So, we pull into the lot at 6:50...T minus 35 minutes until take off!!! We park, scramble out of the car, collect all of the bags and RUN!!!!! We got to the AirTran counter at 7:00. Luckily, I had checked us in on-line and already paid for the bags.

So, the process of checking our bags was quick and painless. Then, back upstairs to security. We went right through and RAN...all five of us...all 10 carry-ons...to the gate! When we got there, they were getting ready to board. We JUST made it! That was one of the scariest moments of my life! Everyone quickly went to the bathroom and then got on the plane. When we got to our seats (not easy with 3 kids and 10 bags), there was someone sitting in one of our seats. He said he had a ticket and I had ours. After going back and forth, it turned out he was on the wrong flight! He got through the gate person and everything!! Makes you wonder how secure things really are, huh?!

Anyway, bags away, in our seats, belts on...we took off at about 7:45. It was late, but we would be in Disney in a few hours!! About 1/2 hour into the flight, Justin started to feel ill. He doesn't get air sick normally, so we figured it was nerves from nearly missing the flight. This continued the entire flight. I kept the kids busy so he could rest. Our flight was also very choppy and I'm sure that did not help.

Finally we touched down in Orlando safe and sound! After taking off 20 minutes late, we still landed on time. We gathered our carry-ons and headed tp baggage claim. I took a couple of pictures along the way but will have to post them in the next installement because they are not on the new computer.

About 10:30 we had claimed our two bags and headed to ME. We checked into ME and waited about 10 minutes or so. By 11:00 we had loaded, our bus had finished filling and we were pulling out and heading to the world!! I was so happy to see that welcome video! At about 11:30, we pulled into POR. We got our bags and headed to check in. Surprisingly, for that time of night, check-in was busy.

It took about 30 minutes to get checked in. After that task was checked off, we went back to bell services to get a ride to our room. We were in building 36. Thank goodness we could get a ride as it was POURING!!!! Our nice driver gave us a bit of a tour and resort facts on the way to our room. Logan (in true fashion) sat up front with the driver (talking and asking questions the whole way).

After our ride, we all got in the room, the kids showered and headed to bed. Justin still did not feel well, so he went to bed and I unpacked until about 2:00 am. That, my friends, was our exciting arrival day!

Next up: Day 1...Magic Kingdom, new friends and will Justin feel better?

[Trentmom]

Yay !!! You started :woohoo:


Back to read now :surfweb:

[Trentmom]

OMG...how scary that must have been

So glad u made it just in time

I bet you had our pilot, since we both flew airtran.

He was dipping plane, turning way too fast. I really felt like I was in a stunt show :rotfl:

I hope Justin is feeling better by next morning and it was just nerves :goodvibes

[raider97]

Hi Erin! I'm in! Can't wait to read how your trip went!

Stephanie

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Yay !!! You started :woohoo:


Back to read now :surfweb:

Wow!!! You are quick!!! I posted that and you found it instantly!! LOL

OMG...how scary that must have been

So glad u made it just in time

I bet you had our pilot, since we both flew airtran.

He was dipping plane, turning way too fast. I really felt like I was in a stunt show :rotfl:

I hope Justin is feeling better by next morning and it was just nerves :goodvibes

It was so scary...all the planning that I put into this trip I just wanted everything to be perfect and go according to plan...not so much!!

LOL maybe we did have the same pilot! I was actually thinking that when I read your TR!! At one point...James says (quite loud) "DUDE!!" LOL the people sitting around us found that sort-of funny!

Yeah...Justin's status will be in my next update! I am going to try to get it up tomorrow night. I am in a bit of a hurry because I am going to collaborate with someone else and their TR for the end of day 1. So, she is waiting on me.

Hi Erin! I'm in! Can't wait to read how your trip went!

Stephanie

Hi!! Thanks for coming over!!! I am going to hopefully keep it going now!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hurray, you started!

Wow, I would have had a heart attack cutting it that close. :scared1:Your heart must have been racing.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Hurray, you started!

Wow, I would have had a heart attack cutting it that close. :scared1:Your heart must have been racing.

Uhhhh...yeah! I thought I was going to just sit down and cry my eyes out! I usually crack under that kind of pressure, but I amazed myself and stayed calm enough to handle the situation. It was almost like my body went into autopilot!! I think if I had lost it, we would not have been on that plane!

[ladybugmom]

Hi Erin!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a trip to WDW around Christmas!! We're looking at the week after Thanksgiving!! I can't WAIT!! Boy was the start of your vacation stressful!! I'm so glad that you made your flight!! :goodvibes I'm so sorry your hubby wasn't feeling well. Can't wait to read more!

[Panotchr]

Whew! I made it!
I have to go back to talk about your PTR, though.
I am a Kindergarten teacher. I just have to say something about Logan's experience. I am glad to hear that things seem to be better. We do not require kids to do what his teacher was asking him to do in October. Give me a break. We are still working on walking in lines, opening milk and of course we do academic things, but holy moly... being upset by the word "and". At any rate, it seems like she was a little defensive and knew she had not done right by him. He is adorable and I am sure he'll be fine.

Now, back to your TR! :)

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Hi Erin!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a trip to WDW around Christmas!! We're looking at the week after Thanksgiving!! I can't WAIT!! Boy was the start of your vacation stressful!! I'm so glad that you made your flight!! :goodvibes I'm so sorry your hubby wasn't feeling well. Can't wait to read more!

Hi!!! Welcome! It is a nice time to go...just have your Christmas stuff done prior to your trip...I did not have a lot done and that made Christmas stressful. I love the Christmas season...everything...the smells...the sounds...the looks on people's faces...the all around spirit. Well, this year it became more of a chore because I had a week and a half span where I was not home to prepare right beforethe holiday. Sorry for the rant...just a bit of advice!! Also, we have been there actually over the holiday in the past. Later in the TR I will discuss the difference just FYI!!!

Yes...the start was a bit too stressful for my liking!! But, everything ended well! I am going to really try to get a good update up here tonight so that I can have some pix in this report!!! LOL

Whew! I made it!
I have to go back to talk about your PTR, though.
I am a Kindergarten teacher. I just have to say something about Logan's experience. I am glad to hear that things seem to be better. We do not require kids to do what his teacher was asking him to do in October. Give me a break. We are still working on walking in lines, opening milk and of course we do academic things, but holy moly... being upset by the word "and". At any rate, it seems like she was a little defensive and knew she had not done right by him. He is adorable and I am sure he'll be fine.

Now, back to your TR! :)


WooHoo!! Thanks for coming over!

I have a few people on here that are teachers and they weighed in on the situation which was nice...just what I was looking for. Things are much better now. In fact the report cards came out a few weeks after that conference we had. The grading scale for Kindergarten for him is 1, 2 or 3, with 3 being the best grade you can get. He got 3 on all but two areas. The two things he didn't score 3 on were given 2's. So, I guess he made a huge turn around in that few weeks, huh??!! LOL I know he is fine...and now the teacher likes him, too! Thanks for encouragement!

[Panotchr]

Oh yeah.. I read every post. I agreed with them, but I didn't think I could weigh in just yet.

I am out today with two sick kiddos, so a great time to catch up on DIS :)
My husband is in PA today... of course the kids are sick and the "oil" light on the van is on. I just love it when that happens.

I'm glad Logan did so well. He is simply adorable. I showed his picture to my oldest daughter and told her about what had happened and she said, "too bad he isn't in your class, Mom." We have a Disney theme at our school this year, but I always have a Disney theme in my classroom. :)

[MEK]

After eating, I collected everyone's garbage to get rid of it at the parking garage. We were getting so close to the airport I could hardly stand it! We had parking reservations at a lot a mile from the airport. They were charging $80 for the duration while the airport was $180. So, as we got closer, the traffic got heavier. We were about 15 miles out and came nearly to a dead stop. I tried not to panic knowing the extra time we had.

But!!!!!! As we crept along, I saw the minutes growing! Soon enough, it was 6:15 and we were still not there. Our flight was in just over one hour. We were ALL panicing! So, I called the airport...no more flights after that one...we had to be checked in by 6:55...and had 5 miles to go! Now I'm in super-panic mode! The nice gentleman at the airport gave us an alternate route and got us to the airport. So, we had to swallow the extra $100 to park at the airport plus the deposit I had already paid at the other place. But, cutting it this close gave us no other option. We didn't have time to transfer from another parking lot. Besides, spending an extra $100 was better than missing our flight, right?! So, we pull into the lot at 6:50...T minus 35 minutes until take off!!! We park, scramble out of the car, collect all of the bags and RUN!!!!! We got to the AirTran counter at 7:00. Luckily, I had checked us in on-line and already paid for the bags.



:sad2: I was getting totally stressed reading this. Where you on the blue route (495) or the Schuylkill Exp? I know the Blue Route backs up quite a bit heading to 95. I am so glad you made it in time, with a few minutes to spare. Talk about stress. That stinks that you had to pay so much to park. Practically the cost of another flight, but definately better than missing the flight.

Anyho - glad you started your TR. And glad you didn't post too many pics since I am reading at work. Looking forward to more excitment! popcorn::

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Oh yeah.. I read every post. I agreed with them, but I didn't think I could weigh in just yet.

I am out today with two sick kiddos, so a great time to catch up on DIS :)
My husband is in PA today... of course the kids are sick and the "oil" light on the van is on. I just love it when that happens.

I'm glad Logan did so well. He is simply adorable. I showed his picture to my oldest daughter and told her about what had happened and she said, "too bad he isn't in your class, Mom." We have a Disney theme at our school this year, but I always have a Disney theme in my classroom. :)

LOL that's the way it always is!!! When you need the hubs...not there!!!! Where in PA is he??

Thanks...he is a special little guy! Like I said, EVERYONE loves him. He just has something about him! Tell your daughter I said thanks for tihnking of him!!!

:sad2: I was getting totally stressed reading this. Where you on the blue route (495) or the Schuylkill Exp? I know the Blue Route backs up quite a bit heading to 95. I am so glad you made it in time, with a few minutes to spare. Talk about stress. That stinks that you had to pay so much to park. Practically the cost of another flight, but definately better than missing the flight.

Anyho - glad you started your TR. And glad you didn't post too many pics since I am reading at work. Looking forward to more excitment! popcorn::

LOL I just read up on your TR I guess while you were over here!! Great minds think alike!!!

It was kind of funny...as I wrote that up and then typed it, I was getting stressed all over again!! LOL It was so scary! We were on the Schuykill. I went to college down there in center city and should really know this, but everyone said I'd be good. But, yeah...I was more willing to pay the extra hundred than for new flights, a hotel and whatever!!!

Nope...just the one pic. I am really going to try to get on here tonight and do another one with more pix. So, you will have to check that out at home!!!

[Panotchr]

He flew into Baltimore and drove to Lancaster. His company headquarters are there.

My oldest wants to be a teacher and she LOVES children. She is the neighborhood babysitter. On many a weekend she has 5 or 6 families OUTBIDDING each other to get her :) Pretty funny!

[Panotchr]

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o84/Panotchr/Florida-springbreak09336.jpg

Here she is with my great-nephew on the beach last summer :) Thought you might like to see a face :)

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

He flew into Baltimore and drove to Lancaster. His company headquarters are there.

My oldest wants to be a teacher and she LOVES children. She is the neighborhood babysitter. On many a weekend she has 5 or 6 families OUTBIDDING each other to get her :) Pretty funny!

Oh...my aunt and uncle live in Lancaster. Also, one of my cousins.

I think a teacher is one of the most selfless professions. You are (hopefully) such a positive influence on a child and play such a major part in molding them into what they become as an adult. It takes a special person to pull that off! Kids are great and such a fun part of life! I enjoy watching them grow and do their thing!! It amazes me every day that I have created them and have been able to help to make them such unique and great people! Ok...enough tooting my own horn!

That is really funny that she has people bidding on her! She can put her available hours on ebay!!! LOL

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o84/Panotchr/Florida-springbreak09336.jpg

Here she is with my great-nephew on the beach last summer :) Thought you might like to see a face :)

Thanks for putting up the pic! She has a warm and friendly face! Logan would talk her ear off for sure! But, she would HAVE to draw with him and play Transformers and sing on the Wii and watch Star Wars and...wait you live too far away for her to babysit!!! LOL

[exwdwcm]

welcome back- i've been searchign for your TR!

can't believe you almost missed the flight! and surprised the airline let you check bags still that close. That is why we 'missed' our flight to vegas this summer- we arrived to check our bags an hour before the flight, but by the time we got to the counter, it was 55 minutes before and their cut off is an hour before. So they said they would not check our bags for the flight. We either had to leave our bags behind (or do carry on only, which wouldn't work, our bags were too big) or just take another flight. I was so mad. I had no idea that some airlines require you to check your bags up to an hour before the flight, some are 45 minutes. we had parked off site that time too and the dang shuttle took forever and dropped us off last (DFW has like 4-5 terminals). what a pain. i made sure for our WDW trip that we were there way way early! live and learn. :confused3:rotfl:

so glad you guys made it though!!! can't wait to hear about the trip! i have my TR going as well in the sig below from December. :thumbsup2

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

yay!!! I'm glad you got started!!! Man that is like crazy about the traffic and your flight! It's luck that your luggage made it :) I can't wait for more!

[disneylovin24]

Doesn't it seem like everytime people tell you there won't be traffic there is?:laughing: Glad you made your flight though!!

popcorn::

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

welcome back- i've been searchign for your TR!

can't believe you almost missed the flight! and surprised the airline let you check bags still that close. That is why we 'missed' our flight to vegas this summer- we arrived to check our bags an hour before the flight, but by the time we got to the counter, it was 55 minutes before and their cut off is an hour before. So they said they would not check our bags for the flight. We either had to leave our bags behind (or do carry on only, which wouldn't work, our bags were too big) or just take another flight. I was so mad. I had no idea that some airlines require you to check your bags up to an hour before the flight, some are 45 minutes. we had parked off site that time too and the dang shuttle took forever and dropped us off last (DFW has like 4-5 terminals). what a pain. i made sure for our WDW trip that we were there way way early! live and learn. :confused3:rotfl:

so glad you guys made it though!!! can't wait to hear about the trip! i have my TR going as well in the sig below from December. :thumbsup2

Yeah...next time I will allow more time to be sure! We were lucky about the bags...don't know what we would've done if they made us leave them?? it was all of DH and my stuff!!! LOL

Next installment coming right up!! I saw your TR and subbed to it. I have started reading, but have not made it all the way through yet. I just figured I'd comment when I get caught up. So, you will hear from me very soon over there!!! :rolleyes1

yay!!! I'm glad you got started!!! Man that is like crazy about the traffic and your flight! It's luck that your luggage made it :) I can't wait for more!

Yep...made for an exciting start!!! I was actually expecting the luggage to be "lost" since it was checked so close to take off time!! But, we got it...whew!!! More coming up tonight!

Doesn't it seem like everytime people tell you there won't be traffic there is?:laughing: Glad you made your flight though!!

popcorn::

Hi! Welcome!!!! Yeah...why is it that people's traffic reports are never on my side??? Oh well...just like the weather, I am learning to believe the opposite! LOL

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

OK, so when we last left off, I was going to bed at 2:00 a.m. on our arrival day. According to our plan, we were supposed to head to MK for a.m. EMH and then to the Poly for a 9:25 a.m. Ohana breakfast. I wasn't sure it was going to happen with our late bed time, but was willing to try. So, I set the alarm for 6:30 and went happily to sleep.

Well, that alarm went off after what felt like 15 minutes. I was tired but dragged myself out of bed, meneuvered my way through the dark room and into the shower. While in the shower, I woke up a bit and realized: "I'm in Disney!" That was enough to give me some pep in my step! I got out, got ready and got Logan's clothes out. Once I was set, I got the kids up and they got ready. While they were dressing, I got our park bag ready and woke Justin. When I got him up, he informed me that he felt worse than he had the night before. GREAT!!! This was not how I wanted to start the trip! I asked what he wanted us to do?? He told me to take the kids and go to the park...not to waste the day (as long as I was comfortable going with all of them alone). Yep...I'm fine...they are good and will listen.

So, about 7:15 or so we were heading out the door and walking to the bus stop. Now, POR has 4 bus stops. Remember...we arrived late and had not seen anything in daylight yet. This is a large resort and finding your way around for the first time is not the easiest task in the world. But, we did ok. We got to the stop at about 7:25 or so and waited about 5 minutes for the bus. We ended up being the only ones on the bus.

Here is Logan on the way to MK for the first time this trip:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3316.jpg

We pulled into MK and got through the turnstiles at 7:55!! Woohoo we were there for park opening! But where were all the other people?? The EMH was for 8:00-9:00 a.m. and everyone was already inside and doing their thing at 7:55! Ok...no biggie! Off we go to Fantasyland!

We saw these guys on the way:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3317.jpg

And then this:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3318.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3323.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3321.jpg

And don't forget these guys:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3322.jpg

A bit of background quickly: I read up prior to this trip about Ridemax. I decided it was worth it and went ahead and bought it to see how it worked for us. So, the kids and I were doing the first trial during this first park day.

Back to business. We headed immediately to Dumbo. There was about a 5-10 minute wait. During our short wait in line, we took a few photos.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3326.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3327.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3328.jpg

And then we got on the ride and took these:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3329.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3331.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3333.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3336.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3337.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3338.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3339.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3330.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3341.jpg

I know this ride is slow and simple, but I really love it!!

After a quick spin on the most famous elephant ever, we went to visit this pretty lady:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3343.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3342.jpg

Unfortunately, we also saw this lady:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3344.jpg

This was our first time ever on this ride. I know it gets a lot of bad reviews, but we actually enjoyed it. I don't know why in all of our trips we never went on, but now we will be sure to go on next time!

Continued in next post...

[Trentmom]

Sorry to hear Justin was still not feeling well. I hope whatever he had was just a 24 hr bug and he was back to the normal by the next day :goodvibes

Love all your pics. They are all so crisp and clear

Really cool photo of you and your daughter in color and background in black and white..so cool:3dglasses

What kind of camera do you have ?

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Moving on through Fantasyland, we went on Pooh. Again, simple but enjoyed! Here are some pictures from there:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3348.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3349.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3350.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3352.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3351.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3353.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3354.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3355.jpg

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Next on our agenda was to attend a party...A MAD TEA PARTY!!!!! I love love love this ride! We walked on! They were waiting for riders...that's how dead it was! Awesome! And, this was this first day of the Christmas show taping...when it was supposed to be so busy...not so!!!

Some pictures from this ride:

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The last two things we wanted to accomplish before breakfast were to grab some Space Mountain FP's and ride Buzz. As we exited the Tea Cups, James and I decided that he would go get the FP's and I would escort the other two to Buzz. So, we did just that.

We saw these guys while waiting for James. They have been chosen!

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continued in next post...

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

James got the FP's to use after breakfast and when he got back, we got in line for Buzz. It was about a 5 minute wait.

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I don't know what the scores were, but I know that James won...as usual!

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A couple of kids were held captive afterwards!!

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With all of these rides, pictures and a set of FP's under our belts, we headed over to the Poly for our much anticipated Ohana breakfast. It was only 9:05 and we had done a lot! Breakfast was at 9:25. So, on to the monorail! We walked into the Poly and checked in. There were about 6 familes in front of us. We had the photo taken (which we did not purchase) and then had a seat to wait. Well, the kids sat...I wandered a bit and took a few photos:

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After about a 10 minute wait, our buzzer went off and we were led to our seats. This is by far our favorite breakfast in Disney. That was what upset Justin the most about feeling ill. (Note: I took no food pictures the entire trip.) Anyway, this trip to Ohana was just as good as the others. We ate great food, relaxed a bit, had some laughs and visited with Lilo, Stitch, Mickey and Pluto.

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When it was time to leave, our waitress asked what happened to the other adult that had been on our reservation. She said that she didn't think James looked old enough to be my husband...but who was she to judge!! LOL I explained to her about Justin not feeling well and being back at the resort in bed. She said she would be back. When she came back, I was actually on the phone with him. She asked to speak to him. She talked to him for a bit, sang him a song and handed the phone back to me. He informed me that he thought she was crazy!! Either way, we left with a "cure-all" concoction she had made for him. She said it was not for kids but he would feel much better after drinking it. On our way out we stopped in the gift shop for a bottle of water. James quickly chugged the water so we could pour the remedy in the bottle and keep it in the backpack while we finished the park.

We had a few minutes to wait for our monorail so I took these:

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Then it was back into MK. We had some Space Mt. FP's to use!!! This would be Logan's first roller coaster ride and he LOVED it!!

On the way there, I snapped these:

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After Space Mt., we grabbed Peter Pan FP's and headed to Pirates. We all love this ride! Yo Ho!! After that, a quick stroll over to HM. We were wanting to pick up a hitchhiker!!!

After riding HM, it was about 12:00 and we grabbed a drink to share. The park was still not very busy. We had only a few items left on our list to check off for the day. So, we kept on. We made our way over to Mickey's Philharmagic. We had not seen this show since we did the family magic tour (which if you have never done...I would recommend doing). I didn't realize how much I missed it. It's a great show! I actually felt like we dropped when on Aladdin's carpet.

Anyway, with our 3-D glasses safely in the bins on the way out of the show, we walked to Cinderella's carousel and took a quick spin. At this point, the only thing left in Fantasyland to do was ride Peter Pan. And, we had those FP's. So, off we go to use them. This is another ride I just love! Too bad my camera battery did not live to capture to moment!!! Guess I have to go back!!! Wink wink!!

I have to say, this was all we wanted to get done for this day in MK and Ridemax got us through everything. It was quite amazing how accurate their times really were. Having said that, Ridemax does not survive the whole vacation...you will learn why in later installments as well as the meaning behind the title of this TR!!

With all of our to-do's checked off, we headed out of the park. I called Justin to see how he was and if he planned to attend our late lunch with us. We were booked for Wolfgang Puck's at 3:00. This is Justin's favorite meal overall. So, I knew he would want to go if he was a little better. When he picked up, he sounded a bit better and said he had just taken a shower. I told him we were getting on a bus back to POR. We met him near the boat dock when we got there and gave him the mystery medicine our breakfast waitress had made him. He did try some of it. But, after a few sips, he trashed it. He said there was definitely ginger ale in it and some sort of liquor. That's all he could get out of it. And, it did not make him feel any better like the waitress assured him he would!! LOL

Up next: Lunch at Wolfgang Puck's, resort time and a Dismeet that is the start of a great friendship!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Sorry to hear Justin was still not feeling well. I hope whatever he had was just a 24 hr bug and he was back to the normal by the next day :goodvibes

Love all your pics. They are all so crisp and clear

Really cool photo of you and your daughter in color and background in black and white..so cool:3dglasses

What kind of camera do you have ?

Yeah... it actually continued on and off for him throughout the first half of the trip...James even got a bit of it. But, he went to the parks with us the rest of the trip...just took it easy.

Thanks!! I love taking pix!! I am not the best at it, but always have my camera nearby!!!

I edited the picture of Lexi and I with Microsoft Digital Image Suite. If you are into scrapbooking and/or photo editing I highly recommend the software!! I use it ALL the time!

I have a Canon Rebel XTi. I love it!!!

[AlohaPolynesian]

OK I am here! I cannot believe that person in your seat was on the wrong flight!! OMG! And I am so sad your hubby wasn't feeling well that first morning. I've never done Ohana breakfast but I love the Poly so I probably should someday. That waitress sounds nuts and I wonder what else she put in that little concoction?!

[exwdwcm]

so sorry he was still not feeling well- what a bummer that is. we all got sick near the end of our trip and it really makes for a downer, even if you tough it out.

lol at the waitress making up some concoction for him and with liquor? :confused3:rotfl:

you got so much done that morning! can't wait to hear the rest and how he ends up feeling.

btw- love the pics of your little guy- he is just adorable with those glasses-he looks so happy and is really enjoying it.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

OK I am here! I cannot believe that person in your seat was on the wrong flight!! OMG! And I am so sad your hubby wasn't feeling well that first morning. I've never done Ohana breakfast but I love the Poly so I probably should someday. That waitress sounds nuts and I wonder what else she put in that little concoction?!

Yeah!!!!! The guy on the plane was a bit scary...all the peolpe around us were saying to make sure he "didn't leave anything behind". I think I would have maybe even worried a little more about it had I not been thinking already about how close we were to not even making the flight!! I don't know what it was...it came on all of a sudden while on the plane. I feel like every time we go to WDW someone gets something. The last time Logan got really sick and was at the hospital with a 104 fever...turned out he had Mono. The time before that, Logan got pink eye. Bad luck with timing, I guess?? :confused3 The Poly is great! The Ohana breakfast is better!!! Everything is perfect! I don't know, but I smelled it and possible got a little buzz just from the fumes!! LOL He said it tasted terrible though. Her said it was bitter. Hey...maybe it was Beverly with a twist of liquor!! LOL

so sorry he was still not feeling well- what a bummer that is. we all got sick near the end of our trip and it really makes for a downer, even if you tough it out.

lol at the waitress making up some concoction for him and with liquor? :confused3:rotfl:

you got so much done that morning! can't wait to hear the rest and how he ends up feeling.

btw- love the pics of your little guy- he is just adorable with those glasses-he looks so happy and is really enjoying it.

Yeah...he was a trooper the rest of the trip as much as I think he would have preferred to stay in bed. But, he just wasn't the same.

She was pretty funny...a little strange but in a cute older lady kind of way! We actually had the same waitress last time we ate at Ohana. I remembered her...she didn't remember us, of course!

I know...Ridemax worked great! I could not believe how much we did and were really only in the park for about 2 1/2 or 3 hours total!

Thanks!!! He got the glasses right as school started...so young!! Our other two got them in 2nd grade (James wears contacts now) which is also young. Justin has REALLY bad eyes...I also wear glasses / contacts, but the older two kids' prescriptions are stronger than mine!!?? Anyway, Logan had an awesome time...cried when we left and has aided me in convincing my husband that Logan and I should go it alone for his birthday and Star Wars weekends in June! Glad I have someone that wants to be there all the time with me!!!!

[disneylovin24]

popcorn:: Great pictures!!!

[ladybugmom]

WOW!! You got a TON done that morning!! I love all of your pics! I have a Canon Rebel as well and I just LOVE my camera!! :goodvibes So sorry your hubby felt so bad--I hope it doesn't last long!

[disneyaddicted]

Oh my geeze what a scary way to start a trip, I hate that feeling of panic when you think you might not make it to your plane on time, and then the thought of no other flights leaving that night. I'm glad you all made it though.

I am enjoying your TR though, I read along with your PTR, and was bummed when you reported about poot and his teacher, I am so happy to hear that she loves him now.

It's a shame your DH was feeling ill and missed out on the first part of your trip, I hope he got better and stayed well for the remainder.

Ride Max sounds awesome, I can't wait to read more and find out why it told you to get a wheel chair.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

popcorn:: Great pictures!!!

Thanks!! I took quite a few...hope it isn't too much for everyone!!

WOW!! You got a TON done that morning!! I love all of your pics! I have a Canon Rebel as well and I just LOVE my camera!! :goodvibes So sorry your hubby felt so bad--I hope it doesn't last long!

Yeah...we really did. We didn't really even feel rushed, either. There were not a lot of people in MK for the EMH and I think that helped a lot! It was the first day of parade taping and I think people were scared to go to the park, so it was super empty!! Yay for us! Thanks...that camera is great, right??!! He felt kida bad for about half the trip, but toughed it out and went to the parks the rest of the time.

Oh my geeze what a scary way to start a trip, I hate that feeling of panic when you think you might not make it to your plane on time, and then the thought of no other flights leaving that night. I'm glad you all made it though.

I am enjoying your TR though, I read along with your PTR, and was bummed when you reported about poot and his teacher, I am so happy to hear that she loves him now.

It's a shame your DH was feeling ill and missed out on the first part of your trip, I hope he got better and stayed well for the remainder.

Ride Max sounds awesome, I can't wait to read more and find out why it told you to get a wheel chair.

Yeah.. it was totally scary!! But, it all worked out in the end!!

The teacher made a huge turn around when we had a conference with her and the guidance counselor.

He felt bad for about half, but went to the parks anyway. Just took it easy for the most part.

Ridemax was great...very accurate and allowed us break time, meal time and to get everything in that we wanted...but it met it's doom...more on that soon!!! :laughing:

It took me a while to get this started and I am still catching up on everyone else's TR's. So, I have not fully read through your TR yet, but have started. I'll hopefully be caught up this week. The holidays and then the computer broke...kept me off of here!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I'm loving your pictures!

[PIRATEGIRL007]

Ridemax was great...very accurate and allowed us break time, meal time and to get everything in that we wanted...but it met it's doom...more on that soon!!! :laughing:



This is why I'm here! I've been on the fence about buying into Ridemax for months so I want some real life honest experience with it.

[DisneyJo]

Wow what a stressful start, thank goodness you made it. I can still remember running for a plane as a child after the road to the airport was closed due to a truck shedding a load of glass, so at least it will be something your kids will remember in years to come :rotfl:

I hope your hubbie got better but it sounds as though you and the kids still had loads of fun in the MK at at 'Ohana :goodvibes

[15isto2]

subscribing

[Panotchr]

Great update! I LOVE the pictures. Logan is the bomb.. is so so adorable. Wishing he were here in Kindergarten :) Can't wait to hear more about it.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I'm loving your pictures!

Thanks!!!! I know you and I had talked about pix of all the Christmas decorations before I had left...I just want to warn you...I don't have many. It's not because I didn't take them...Disney really scaled back on their decorating since we were there for the holiday in 2006. :confused3

This is why I'm here! I've been on the fence about buying into Ridemax for months so I want some real life honest experience with it.

Hi! I hope you will stick it out until the end!! There is a lot of fun stuff to come! Unfortunately, Ridemax only made it through day 2. But, I can tell you that if you get it and you are all willing to follow it, it works great!

Wow what a stressful start, thank goodness you made it. I can still remember running for a plane as a child after the road to the airport was closed due to a truck shedding a load of glass, so at least it will be something your kids will remember in years to come :rotfl:

I hope your hubbie got better but it sounds as though you and the kids still had loads of fun in the MK at at 'Ohana :goodvibes

Judging by the start, I was worried that the vacation was going in the wrong direction, but all was well and turned itself right around! Ibet the kids will remember since even the 5 year old was booking it through the airport!! LOL

He eventually got a little better...but the kids and I did our thing and honestly, they were better behaved when it was just me and not my husband and I both!! LOL They are all really good kids (especially when I see how some other kids act...which I will explain later in the trip). But, they all have their moments where they fight or know everything or whatever. I know that is all normal, but something we like to correct and not just let them get away with.

subscribing

Hi! Welcome to the party!!!! There are some good times in here!!!!! Just wait and see!!!

Great update! I LOVE the pictures. Logan is the bomb.. is so so adorable. Wishing he were here in Kindergarten :) Can't wait to hear more about it.

Thank you!!!! He is great! Such a fun kid! He would keep you rolling if he were your student! In fact, his reading teacher's daughter is in his class. Logan has this other girl Angelina in his class that he always writes about in his kid writing...they "go to the mall" or they "saw a rainbow" or "played on the playground"...basically whatever comes to his mind. Well, the reading teacher told us that if any boy in the class were to write about her daughter, she would want it to be Logan!! LOL He's a Cassanova!! Last Friday, we saw his bus driver at Panera Bread. He was flirting with her and all of her friends that were eating with her. She stopped by our table before leaving and asked us if Logan told us that he had been voted "cutest kid on the bus"?? We said no, but that was pretty funny!! Meanwhile, Lexi goes on to tell us that she didn't think he was the cutest...that there was one other boy that she felt beat him out!! LOL Sister! Anyway, sorry to go on about him...he just special!!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Thanks!!!! I know you and I had talked about pix of all the Christmas decorations before I had left...I just want to warn you...I don't have many. It's not because I didn't take them...Disney really scaled back on their decorating since we were there for the holiday in 2006. :confused3


Darn recession! :headache:

[Disneyfan71]

LOVE the pictures---of course when it comes to Disney I LOVE all pictures. Looking at the Poly brings back memories of when I stayed there thirty years ago...yes THIRTY years ago--hard to believe. At any rate I'm subscribing :)

[Trentmom]

More Great pics!!!

I can't believe how much you got done Ridemax rocks :woohoo:

It does sound like your waitress at Ohana was a bit kooky, but sure she meant well :rotfl:

[momof2TNboys]

Hey! I am signing up. I cannot wait to hear about your trip. I like to see what others were doing while we were there at the same time. I think we were at MK the same day. Too funny. I can't wait to hear about the Contemporary pitstop. We are staying there in December. My husband actually surprised me and upgraded to the Poly on our December trip this last year. It was great, but now I am spoiled with the monorail. Can't wait to hear more!! Oh,by the way, I read your other post on possibly going back in June. I think you should go for it! If no one else really wants to go, I see no reason why you should not just take Poot. I, somehow, talked my DH into taking the kids back in May this year for their surprise birthday present. I guess he must not have hated it to go back two times this year. I just love how it makes my kids react. They absolutely were in heaven and I think it is worth it to see them that happy.

[MadilynnsMomma]

Erin - I'm here... and someday I will start my own TR! :rolleyes:

That is pretty scary that you got on the plane and someone from another flight was in your seat - WAY TO GO gate checker person! ...and for that to happen after the whole "will we, won't we" and shelling out the extra $100... phew! Poor Justin, I would have been sick too!

Magic Kingdom sounds like it was a hit! Can't wait to hear more!

P.S. - I had such a blast meeting you and your family. You're children are beautiful, intelligent and have been raised right - good job Momma! :goodvibes

[nic100308]

Here, here, here!!! :yay:

So you never told me about the plane thing, LOL I had to hear it from my husband!!

I'm terrible, I just got my PhotoPass CD (but all the pics are on facebook) but I haven't looked at any of the pictures I took. I guess I should do that, I do have some awesome pictures of us taking off that I should put in my TR (I promise I will have something started by tonight-I know I'm such a slacker!)

Anyway, I love the pics of all the kids on the rides. And I can't wait till the next and best installment!! Yeah, that's right, that's when your new family starts to join you!!!

[burly]

Oh yeah I'm in. Can't wait to hear about the ridemax stuff too. :thumbsup2

[nic100308]

Okay, up and running, only got through my first day. Although day 2 should be a good one. It was pouring and that was our drink around the world. We started off strong and even had pictures of all our drinks. It all went down hill after sake in Japan...

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Darn recession! :headache:

Exactly!!! It is a shame!

LOVE the pictures---of course when it comes to Disney I LOVE all pictures. Looking at the Poly brings back memories of when I stayed there thirty years ago...yes THIRTY years ago--hard to believe. At any rate I'm subscribing :)

Thank you very much! Welcome! I would love to someday stay at the Poly!!!

More Great pics!!!

I can't believe how much you got done Ridemax rocks :woohoo:

It does sound like your waitress at Ohana was a bit kooky, but sure she meant well :rotfl:

Thanks!

It did work really well! It will get us through day 2 and then it gets put to bed, though!

She was a few cards short of a full deck I think, but really nice!!

Hey! I am signing up. I cannot wait to hear about your trip. I like to see what others were doing while we were there at the same time. I think we were at MK the same day. Too funny. I can't wait to hear about the Contemporary pitstop. We are staying there in December. My husband actually surprised me and upgraded to the Poly on our December trip this last year. It was great, but now I am spoiled with the monorail. Can't wait to hear more!! Oh,by the way, I read your other post on possibly going back in June. I think you should go for it! If no one else really wants to go, I see no reason why you should not just take Poot. I, somehow, talked my DH into taking the kids back in May this year for their surprise birthday present. I guess he must not have hated it to go back two times this year. I just love how it makes my kids react. They absolutely were in heaven and I think it is worth it to see them that happy.

Hi!!! Welcome!! Are you doing a TR? I'd like to hear about your trip also! The Contemporary will come into play about half way through. It is beautiful. Mmmmmm....the Poly looks gorgeous!!! Thanks...I am going to go back in June. I actually think my best friend (who is Logan's godmother) is going to go with us. We are actually thinking about staying at the Contemporary then, too! Yep...Logan is the one that likes it most. And, my friend has not been there since she was a child. She actually is most excited about the fireworks...she loves them!

Erin - I'm here... and someday I will start my own TR! :rolleyes:

That is pretty scary that you got on the plane and someone from another flight was in your seat - WAY TO GO gate checker person! ...and for that to happen after the whole "will we, won't we" and shelling out the extra $100... phew! Poor Justin, I would have been sick too!

Magic Kingdom sounds like it was a hit! Can't wait to hear more!

P.S. - I had such a blast meeting you and your family. You're children are beautiful, intelligent and have been raised right - good job Momma! :goodvibes

Hi Jen!!!! We have a little way to go until you get in this report!!

Yeah...the whole plane thing was insane from on the way there to actually taking off!

Yep...MK was great! I was disappointed at first that Justin didn't feel well and couldn't go with us that day, but then it was kind of nice to spend that little bit of time alone with my kids!!

We had a great time meeting you guys also. I wish we would have had some more time together! But, we managed to catch a parade, a meal and a safari...not so bad I guess!! Thank you so much! I think those kids are turning out ok! Lexi LOVED Little Miss Madi!!! She is too cute!

Here, here, here!!! :yay:

So you never told me about the plane thing, LOL I had to hear it from my husband!!

I'm terrible, I just got my PhotoPass CD (but all the pics are on facebook) but I haven't looked at any of the pictures I took. I guess I should do that, I do have some awesome pictures of us taking off that I should put in my TR (I promise I will have something started by tonight-I know I'm such a slacker!)

Anyway, I love the pics of all the kids on the rides. And I can't wait till the next and best installment!! Yeah, that's right, that's when your new family starts to join you!!!

Hey friend!!!

I think I tried to block that plane situation out of my mind for a minute!!! That gossip queen Greg!! LOL (Speaking of Greg...where are you???)

LOL I had my CD for about a month now!!!! My own pix are all edited and ready to load to photobucket!! Who is on top of things??!! Just kidding...that is not the norm for me!!!

Thanks! I am putting up that next installment at some point today. You are right...it is a good one...it features a pina colava!!! WooHooooooo!!! Oh yeah...and that awesome waiter in the lounge! LOL

Oh yeah I'm in. Can't wait to hear about the ridemax stuff too. :thumbsup2

It doesn't have a long lifespan, but you will hear a bit more! Trust me...the rest of the trip was more exciting than just the ridemax info!!! LOL

Okay, up and running, only got through my first day. Although day 2 should be a good one. It was pouring and that was our drink around the world. We started off strong and even had pictures of all our drinks. It all went down hill after sake in Japan...

I went over...checked it out...commented and now am going to try to get the rest of my day 1 ready to post!!

[nic100308]

LOL, okay something funny happened with my trip report, it sort of disappeared. So the new link is in my signature, you have to comment again!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

So, when we last left off, we had met Justin at the boat launch to go from POR to DTD. I think we waited maybe 10 minutes at the very most for the water taxi. The ride from POR to DTD is actually a really nice ride. We stopped at POFQ on the way to pick passengers up there, then finished our trip. When we were waiting at the dock, a very nice couple came behind us. They were celebrating their 30th anniversary in WDW. We talked to them the whole ride. I find that we meet the nicest people in WDW. Anyway, the sun was out, the temperature was perfect and we were sitting for at least a little while.

I don't remember how long exactly the ride was, but when we pulled up to the DTD dock, we headed for Wolfgang Puck. Now, remember...my camera battery died so no pictures in this post. When we got into Wolfgang Puck's (which is a pretty long walk from the dock), they took us right to our table. The restaurant was not busy at all. We love this place and just figured it was because of the time of day. Honestly, this place is probably one of the best values for one table service credit on the dining plan in all of Disney. As usual, our meal was AMAZING! I had the crab cake for my appetizer and the macadamia nut crusted chicken for my main course. Both were great! Justin had the spring rolls for his appetizer and the same chicken for his meal. He managed to eat the spring rolls, but could not eat the chicken. So, we took that along with our desserts back to the room. We both ordered the carrot cake. I did manage to eat most of mine later on in the trip and it was great! I'll just stick to our meals and not the kids' for this trip.

After eating our yummy meal (well some of us ate anyway), we headed to the bus stop to get back to POR. I really wanted to do some shopping, but Justin still didn't feel well and the kids and I hadn't had much sleep. So, we went back to the room to rest...we had a Dis meet later that night!!

I think it was within about 10 minutes that we were all sleeping. That nap was great. We didn't stay asleep too long...maybe an hour or hour and a half.

Once everyone was up and around, we got ready to head down to the Riverroost Lounge. My phone went off while we were getting ready and it was a text from Nicole (nic100308) that they would meet us there. So, out the door we went. It took about 5 (or maybe a little more) minutes to get to the main building from our building. The resort is a bit like a maze. Before meeting them, we had to stop in the resort gift shop. Justin needed to get some Alka Seltzer for his whatever was going on. Well, the kids all had money and had not bought anything yet. So, they HAD to get something. James got candy, Lexi got several pins and Logan got a Star Wars potato head. It actually was a good thing. We were going to be visiting with Nicole and Greg for a bit and they could keep busy.

Gift shop purchases paid for, we were ready to go next door to the Riverroost Lounge. I have to admit, I was a little nervous to meet Nicole and Greg at first. Those nerves, they lasted about 2 seconds. Meeting Nicole was like seeing an old friend. We truly just clicked (for lack of a better term). They had snagged a nice little table with little couches and a few chairs. It was plenty of room for all of us.

We had a great waiter. He got Justin a water so he could take his medicine and was joking with us and having a good time. So, Nicole and I were chatting, Justin and Greg were talking I think about those stinking Yankees. The kids wanted to go to the arcade. So, I gave James some money and put him in charge of his brother and sister. They went off and played some games for a bit. After taking the Alka Seltzer, Justin seemed to feel a little better. Good enough to have a couple of beers at least. In fact, he got a Blue Moon. He was happy they had this one!! That was also when I had my first Pina Colava. It was love at first taste! Let me tell you...AWESOME! It was not a strong drink, but oh so good!!! I had two that night. I would have had more, but some how I was getting conned into taking Logan for a quick trip back to DTD. He really wanted to do the build your own light sabre. Appearantly sometime when I was delerious from lack of sleep, I promised we would do it that day. So, we had spent I think about two hours with Nicole and Greg and at about 10:00 left to go to get on a bus to Once Upon a Toy. Nicole and Greg both said they were tired anyway because that was their flight day. And, we would be seeing them in a few days...or sooner??!! I also later found out from Nicole that Greg thought I was crazy going over there that late! LOL A promise is a promise...even though I don't remember promising?!

The bus came pretty quickly. We got on and into the store we went. I looked around a bit while Justin helped Logan make the toy. He made the double-ended one (which had to be taken apart to get home).

Here are some pictures of the event:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3401.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3402.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3403-1.jpg



I had charged my battery during the nap we took earlier. We paid for that and off we went again. There was someone who looked like a manager opening the door for those of us leaving. It was about 11:05. On the way out, I asked what time they closed. She was very nice and said 11:00. I thought they closed at 11:30 and here we kept them past closing a few minutes. I swear, had I known, I would've rushed the boys a bit. But, I did apologize to the woman.

Anyway, we went to the bus stop. We waited FOREVER for the bus! It took more than 1/2 hour to get the bus. When one finally did come, we boarded and rode back to the resort. It was time for showers and bed. The kids quickly were clean and happy to go to sleep. We had another early morning the next day. Before I went to bed, I had to get the surprise gifts for the kids ready. After doing that, I set the alarm for 6:30 a.m. and off to sweet dreams.

Up next: Epcot, dodging rain drops and another Dis meet??

Also, here are the airport pictures I didn't have loaded before:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3312.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3313.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3314.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3315.jpg

And, some photopass pictures from Day 1:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0001.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0002.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0007.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0006.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0005.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/Image0009.jpg

Thanks again for reading along!!!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

LOL, okay something funny happened with my trip report, it sort of disappeared. So the new link is in my signature, you have to comment again!

Oh god!!! And I had a good little comment about Greg in there I think!! Hmph!

[Disneyfan71]

I've seen a Wolfgang Puck's restaurant in the Indy airport but wondered just how good it was. We might have to try it if we get there this year :)

[exwdwcm]

great pics, so glad you and Nic got to meet up and that it was like meeting an old friend. Has she started her TR yet? i need to look and find hers.

I LOVE Pina Colavas! I discovered them at the Poly bar and now I have to have one! They had them at AKL too (Boma, the bar etc.). I guess they will make them for you anywhere you ask though. YUM!!!:thumbsup2:worship:

lol at the light saber at 11pm. my DH made him a double sided one too! boys!:wizard:

[greg100308]

I have to admit, I was a little nervous to meet Nicole and Greg at first. Those nerves, they lasted about 2 seconds. Meeting Nicole was like seeing an old friend. We truly just clicked (for lack of a better term). They had snagged a nice little table with little couches and a few chairs. It was plenty of room for all of us.

Umm, you forgot to add "And then the real awesomeness of our vacation began"...:thumbsup2

[Trentmom]

We really need to check out Wolfgang.I keep hearing so many good reviews of it:goodvibes

Glad your dismeet went well. I had the same butterflies for mine, but like yours, mine disappeared too within seconds :goodvibes

Steve helped Trent make a light saber too, double sided too...good times :rotfl:

[DisneyJo]

You are such a good Mom going to build a light saber at that time of night and your hubbie must have been feeling better to have some drinks :thumbsup2

[Ellester]

Fun report! I loved the pictures of building the light saber. My oldest dd and dh built a double sided one last February. It took them forever and then the cashier had to send them back to get a few pieces they missed. It was way more complicated than it looked! Your kids are precious, I love how your oldest doesn't want to smile in the pictures. Aren't those adolescents funny? They are just too cool to smile sometimes! I hope your hubby feels better by the next installment, being sick on vacation stinks!

[Panotchr]

Thank you!!!! He is great! Such a fun kid! He would keep you rolling if he were your student! In fact, his reading teacher's daughter is in his class. Logan has this other girl Angelina in his class that he always writes about in his kid writing...they "go to the mall" or they "saw a rainbow" or "played on the playground"...basically whatever comes to his mind. Well, the reading teacher told us that if any boy in the class were to write about her daughter, she would want it to be Logan!! LOL He's a Cassanova!! Last Friday, we saw his bus driver at Panera Bread. He was flirting with her and all of her friends that were eating with her. She stopped by our table before leaving and asked us if Logan told us that he had been voted "cutest kid on the bus"?? We said no, but that was pretty funny!! Meanwhile, Lexi goes on to tell us that she didn't think he was the cutest...that there was one other boy that she felt beat him out!! LOL Sister! Anyway, sorry to go on about him...he just special!!!


I would vote him cutest kid on the bus :)

[ladybugmom]

Great update!! What a fun-filled day!! Don't you just LOVE DIS meets?! Sooo much fun!! Glad you hit it off so well with Nicole! And I can't believe you went to DD so late!! WOW! I didn't realize the shops were open so late! :goodvibes

[disneyaddicted]

I have had the Pina colava before it is yummo. I'm happy you got to meet and hang out with Nic, am I a bit jealous of you both? Yup, yup I am.

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

nice update!!!!!! You got some great pics :)

[Raecheal]

I"m here... I'm late, but in.. I"m sub. :surfweb:

[nic100308]

HA! We're all lucky that it went well. LOL I think Greg was really scared about what I had potentially gotten him into. Good thing it was love at first sight!!

Awesome pics at the MK, I don't think I am IN LOVE with any of the ones we got there. Some good ones, LOL but I like yours better. And I think if I have a framed picture of you and your children that would be taking it a little too far!

I hope you still have the recipe for the Pina Colavas, I love coconut. It does have coconut right? I had something called a Hurricane I think. Very good and packed a little kick for such a fruity kind of drink.

Arg, Epcot day was terrible. I mean we still had fun but man that was by dar the worst weather wise the whole trip.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I've seen a Wolfgang Puck's restaurant in the Indy airport but wondered just how good it was. We might have to try it if we get there this year :)

MMMMMM....we LOOOOOOVE Puck's!!! It is great...always is our first dinner or lunch!!!

great pics, so glad you and Nic got to meet up and that it was like meeting an old friend. Has she started her TR yet? i need to look and find hers.

I LOVE Pina Colavas! I discovered them at the Poly bar and now I have to have one! They had them at AKL too (Boma, the bar etc.). I guess they will make them for you anywhere you ask though. YUM!!!:thumbsup2:worship:

lol at the light saber at 11pm. my DH made him a double sided one too! boys!:wizard:

Thanks!!! Yep...we really hit it off!! We are still talking now! She started her report.

I love them too...now that I tried them for the first time! I got the recipe from the bar tender at AKL!!! LOL I had one at the pool bar there while the kids were swimming and she gave me the measurements and ingredients. We have made them here at home two times since our vacation and they taste exactly the same!

Yeah...what we do for our kids!!!

Umm, you forgot to add "And then the real awesomeness of our vacation began"...:thumbsup2

Yeah...how did I ever let that slip my mind!!! LOL

We really need to check out Wolfgang.I keep hearing so many good reviews of it:goodvibes

Glad your dismeet went well. I had the same butterflies for mine, but like yours, mine disappeared too within seconds :goodvibes

Steve helped Trent make a light saber too, double sided too...good times :rotfl:

Oh...you have to go there! It is too good!

It was great...we had a few more!!! ;)

You are such a good Mom going to build a light saber at that time of night and your hubbie must have been feeling better to have some drinks :thumbsup2

Awwww thanks!!! :love: Yeah...he was a bit better, but it kept coming and going throughout the trip!!!

Fun report! I loved the pictures of building the light saber. My oldest dd and dh built a double sided one last February. It took them forever and then the cashier had to send them back to get a few pieces they missed. It was way more complicated than it looked! Your kids are precious, I love how your oldest doesn't want to smile in the pictures. Aren't those adolescents funny? They are just too cool to smile sometimes! I hope your hubby feels better by the next installment, being sick on vacation stinks!

Yeah...it took forever to build that thing completely!! LOL Thanks!! Yeah...he is too cool to smile in family pix!!! LOL He gets a little better, but goes back and forth most of the trip!!

I would vote him cutest kid on the bus :)

Awww...thanks!!

Great update!! What a fun-filled day!! Don't you just LOVE DIS meets?! Sooo much fun!! Glad you hit it off so well with Nicole! And I can't believe you went to DD so late!! WOW! I didn't realize the shops were open so late! :goodvibes

Yes!!! I met some great people on here!! And made some awesome friends!!! Yep...I actually thought they were open even later!

I have had the Pina colava before it is yummo. I'm happy you got to meet and hang out with Nic, am I a bit jealous of you both? Yup, yup I am.

Mmmm...that is the best drink I have ever had!!! Love it! I even got the recipe from one of the bartenders!! Yep...we met Nic that night then several other nights!!! LOL

nice update!!!!!! You got some great pics :)

Thank you!!! I was a bit bummed that my battery died, but I did ok I guess!

I"m here... I'm late, but in.. I"m sub. :surfweb:

Hey you!!! Glad to see you back!!!

HA! We're all lucky that it went well. LOL I think Greg was really scared about what I had potentially gotten him into. Good thing it was love at first sight!!

Awesome pics at the MK, I don't think I am IN LOVE with any of the ones we got there. Some good ones, LOL but I like yours better. And I think if I have a framed picture of you and your children that would be taking it a little too far!

I hope you still have the recipe for the Pina Colavas, I love coconut. It does have coconut right? I had something called a Hurricane I think. Very good and packed a little kick for such a fruity kind of drink.

Arg, Epcot day was terrible. I mean we still had fun but man that was by dar the worst weather wise the whole trip.

I know!!! That Greg.....wise guy! Now I'm his new favorite thing about Disney!!! LOL

LOL if you must, you could put up a picture of us...I may get a restraining order though!!!

I do have the recipe fpr the Pina Colavas...we just had them on Friday night!! LOL We added a little more alcohol than Disney does though. Maybe I will post the recipe up here since several people like the drink!!

I know...we were soaked!!! Our next day in Epcot we met up with oyu guys again though!!

[disneyaddicted]

Mmmm...that is the best drink I have ever had!!! Love it! I even got the recipe from one of the bartenders!! Yep...we met Nic that night then several other nights!!! LOL
I had a drink at Planet Hollywood, it was called the Hell Boy, I wish I would have thought to ask for the recipe, it was super good, kind of sweet with a little zest to it, there's 7 dfferent kinds of alcohol in it and I couldn't taste one of them, after a few sips I couldn't really taste anything anymore.

I would be forever grateful if you were to post the Pina Colava recipe.:flower3:

[raider97]

Great updates Erin! Looks like you guys got a lot done on your first day! Can't wait to hear more.... and I would love the recipe if you want to post it. :)

Stephanie

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I had a drink at Planet Hollywood, it was called the Hell Boy, I wish I would have thought to ask for the recipe, it was super good, kind of sweet with a little zest to it, there's 7 dfferent kinds of alcohol in it and I couldn't taste one of them, after a few sips I couldn't really taste anything anymore.

I would be forever grateful if you were to post the Pina Colava recipe.:flower3:

Great updates Erin! Looks like you guys got a lot done on your first day! Can't wait to hear more.... and I would love the recipe if you want to post it. :)

Stephanie

I am getting ready to put dinner out, but I will definitely post that recipe later on tonight!!! :thumbsup2

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Ok since several of you said that you shared my love of the Glorious Pina Colava and a couple asked for the recipe...here it is...

(This is directly from the bartender at the AKL pool bar.)

You can buy raspberry puree or buy frozen raspberries. We bought the frozen raspberries. You take the frozen berries and add some sugar then puree them in the blender. They will be a syrup-like consistency. Set this aside.

6 oz. Coco Real

3 oz. Bacardi Gold (or whatever version you choose)

1 1/2 oz. Bacardi Razz

3 oz. Pineapple juice

1 1/2 cups ice

Mix all of these in the blender. We used a little more liquor after the first time. It is up to your personal preference...you'll have to try it out to see just what you like. This seems to make about 2 or 2 1/2 glasses. You can adjust the recipe for smaller or larger batches.

Take the puree and pour some down the side of a glass. (You do this instead of mixing it right in so that you get some in each sip but the flavors are still seperate.) The puree will be like syrup going down the side of the glass. Add the frozen mixture and a straw. Last, but most important...ENJOY!!!!

[Panotchr]

Wow, I so wish I had one right now. Thanks for the recipe.

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Wow, I so wish I had one right now. Thanks for the recipe.

Don't we all??!! I just picked the supplies up from the store again yesterday!! LOL Hoping to have one or two on Friday night while sitting by the fire since the weather man said 19 for the high that night!! :scared1:

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

omg that sound sooooo yummy!!! That may be a weekend treat for me, thanks so much!

[Panotchr]

I have to fly to Nashville on Friday, but come Saturday... if I can get home... I am going to fix one up :)

[exwdwcm]

thanks for the recipe! can't wait to try it! it is my all time favorite WDW drink

[Chelley00]

Finally here and all caught up. Sounds like things got off to a rough start. :( can't wait to read the rest

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

omg that sound sooooo yummy!!! That may be a weekend treat for me, thanks so much!

No problem!!! I am definitely going to be enjoying them tomorrow night!!!

I have to fly to Nashville on Friday, but come Saturday... if I can get home... I am going to fix one up :)

Snow?? I think the storm is staying South of us...fingers crossed!!!!

thanks for the recipe! can't wait to try it! it is my all time favorite WDW drink

You're welcome! They are so good and I'm glad that we can now enjoy them at home!

Finally here and all caught up. Sounds like things got off to a rough start. :( can't wait to read the rest

Welcome!!! Yeah...things were quite crazy at first! But, the trip as a whole was great and filled with a lot of laughs! I am going to try to get another update up here either tonight or tomorrow! Stay tuned!

[disneyaddicted]

I can't wait to try it out, but what is coco real and where can I find it?

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I can't wait to try it out, but what is coco real and where can I find it?

Oh geez!!! I meant to put a note next to that and forgot! Sorry!

It is coconut flavoring like a mixer for pina coladas. You should be able to find it in your grocery store by the other mixers for drinks. I even found it at Target. Coco Real is a brand, so you could use something else that is the same. Coco Lopez is another brand. Hope this helps! :thumbsup2

[Panotchr]

Got my drink... thanks to the recipe! Got my snack popcorn::... Now I just need another update :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

I made it! You got so many great pictures! I haven't wanted to fight with photobucket over all of my pics, but you are taking me back to last month. I miss it!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Got my drink... thanks to the recipe! Got my snack popcorn::... Now I just need another update :thumbsup2

I wrote it up tonight...posting tomorrow!!

I made it! You got so many great pictures! I haven't wanted to fight with photobucket over all of my pics, but you are taking me back to last month. I miss it!

Yay!!! Welcome! Thanks! I feel like I missed out on several pix though...my camera battery died on more than one occassion! You would have thought I would learn!!! LOL I miss it, too!! Ready to go back!

[beyondblessed]

Hi Erin - I'm all caught up. We were just days behind you...I'm so anxious to compare our TR's and see where we were on the same days. We did Ohana but on Wednesday (the 9th) that week! :lovestruc

My heart was racing for you with the airport scare! I always have this terrible feeling in my tummy until I'm actually seated on the plane. So stressful - I don't think I could survive if I had to travel for work.

Can't wait to read more! :lovestruc

[nic100308]

WOO HOO new cocktail hour recipe!!!

Your next Epcot day wasn't until the end? We did an afternoon there one day, just to sort of hang out and enjoy the atmosphere. By far my favorite for atmosphere. LOL and because we wanted to spend time with you guys, we ended up going to Epcot more than any other park!!

[Panotchr]

:rolleyes1
Well, I have no school tomorrow and I have plenty of time to read an update..... we got 8 inches of snow and that does not usually happen here. Girls are thrilled.... I am thrilled.... but hmmmmmm what happened next on your trip????

xoxoxoxo

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Hi Erin - I'm all caught up. We were just days behind you...I'm so anxious to compare our TR's and see where we were on the same days. We did Ohana but on Wednesday (the 9th) that week! :lovestruc

My heart was racing for you with the airport scare! I always have this terrible feeling in my tummy until I'm actually seated on the plane. So stressful - I don't think I could survive if I had to travel for work.

Can't wait to read more! :lovestruc

Hi!!!! Glad to hear from you! Yes...I am reading yours and comparing also!! LOL I'll have to really examine my pix and see if I caught you at all!! Ohana is so great, right?

Yeah...airport=scary!!!!

I am going to force myself to stay up and do an update tonight!!!

WOO HOO new cocktail hour recipe!!!

Your next Epcot day wasn't until the end? We did an afternoon there one day, just to sort of hang out and enjoy the atmosphere. By far my favorite for atmosphere. LOL and because we wanted to spend time with you guys, we ended up going to Epcot more than any other park!!

Hey there buddy!!! We had them this past weekend!!

Nope...second to last day...actually last full day. It's my favorite too...I feel like we didn't get enough time there this trip. We did have fun on our Epcot day...along with all of our other park days!! LOL Wait until you see some of the pix I have from the last Epcot day...great!!!!

:rolleyes1
Well, I have no school tomorrow and I have plenty of time to read an update..... we got 8 inches of snow and that does not usually happen here. Girls are thrilled.... I am thrilled.... but hmmmmmm what happened next on your trip????

xoxoxoxo

Sorry...ended up getting pretty busy...we have been on the hunt for a new sofa and new furniture for the kids' rooms. Plus, we are redoing the bedroom floors...and painting everyone's rooms...busy busy. So, I am getting it up tonight. I hope you got all dug out!! Are you getting hit with the next storm this weekend, too?

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Moving on...to Day 2! This was our first day in Epcot. We were getting an early start again and meeting another Dis friend. So, up and at 'em at 6:30. I again got up, took my shower and dressed. Then, I woke everyone else up and packed the park bags while they dressed. When they finished, I handed out their surprise gifts. (Sorry, no pictures.) It only took the kids a few minutes to tear through the bags of goodies. So, we repacked them and put them away. It was about 7:15 and we needed to get out the door. We quickly made it to the bus stop just as an Epcot bus pulled up. Lucky us, no wait!

After a few more stops, we were on our way to Epcot. We arrived there at about 7:45, went through bag check and the turnstiles. I took these pictures on the way in:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3405.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3406.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3404.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3407.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3410.jpg

We had an 8:05 a.m. reservation at Akershus. We got there just in time! We all really like breakfast best out of all meals. This one, however, we all agreed we can take or leave. It is o.k. - but just o.k. in our opinions. We have done it before and feel it was the same then, but can find other meals that are better. We seem to keep going back for Lexi to see a bunch of princesses at once. That being said, the character interaction was very good here. The boys weren't totally into the princesses (especially James). But, they made jokes with the boys and paid special attention to them. Also, it was nice to see Ariel. We have never seen her up close before. The other times we ate here, Mulan and Jasmine were doing the meet and greets. This time we had Cinderella and Ariel along with Snow White, Aurora and Belle who all seem to be standard. As we walked in, we met Belle.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3411.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3412.jpg

The photographer took some pictures and then we were taken to our table. We got drinks and made our way up to the cold buffet. We each had some fresh fruit and a pastry. Not long after sitting back down, our hot platter was brought out. The potatoes were very good. As we ate, we were greeted by:

Cinderella

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3413.jpg

Aurora

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3414.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3415.jpg

Snow White

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3416.jpg

and Ariel

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3417.jpg

We also got two picture packages included with this meal since we were a party of five. One had Belle and the kids. The other had Belle with the whole family.

After we finished our meal, we walked back out around to Test Track. I took these along the way:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3418.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3419.jpg

We grabbed Test Track fast passes and headed to:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3420.jpg

We started feeling a few drops of rain at this point, but kept on. This was going to be the first time Logan and I rode this. Justin had been on in past visits with James and Lexi. Logan was never tall enough, so I just always sat it out with him. Anyway, being our first time, we opted for the easier side. Justin sat this ride out because he still wasn't 100%. Here is Logan excited to ride:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3421.jpg

Let me preface this by saying that I ride ALL rides and never have any issues. OK. We did the debriefing. Waited for our shuttle. Loaded. And then it happened. I freaked out! I mean full-on sweat, shakes, heart-thumping panic attack! I never have had an issue with small spaces before. But, when the shoulder harness came down and the control panel came in and the door shut, I lost it. I told the kids I needed to get out and that I couldn't do it. They were so good...telling me that it was o.k. and I'd be fine. I was banging on the door, but we were preparing for lift-off, so it was too late. I just decided I had to get myself calmed down. So, I focused on the screen and took some deep breaths. I got through the ride and did like it, but the beginning and not knowing how close everything got made me really nervous. So, somehow...not sure how...I did calm down and made it through. I was glad it was over but still had to hear the jokes from Justin and the kids. I now can laugh about it, but at the time I was really scared!

After such a scary ride, it was time for something a bit easier. We headed to:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3409.jpg

This was a first for all of us. We actually enjoyed it quite a bit. It definitely calmed me down! While we were waiting in line, I noticed the woman behind us was knitting a scarf!! LOL The line was a little long (about 15-20 minutes), but really??!! I thought it was funny so I texted Nicole to tell her. We had just talked the night before about some of the funny things people do in Disney!!

Our journey over, we headed to the Land and grabbed fast passes for Soarin'. We planned to use them later after our dinner at the Garden Grill. Fast passes in hand, we then made the move back to the Seas. We were going to ride Nemo.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3422.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3423.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3425.jpg

On the way in, we saw these guys:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3424.jpg

Logan LOVES them!!!

And, we were able to walk right onto the ride. I did manage a few pictures in the que while walking through.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3427.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3428.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3426.jpg

With Nemo back safely with his dad, we headed to catch Turtle Talk with Crush. I love this show! Logan and Lexi sat up front, but did not get called on during the show. That was o.k. We still enjoyed it. After the show, we looked at the tanks a bit and headed out. It was time for the World Showcase. We had a lunch planned for 2:00 in Germany and a Dismeet planned for right after. As we exited the shop in the Seas Aquariums, the skies opened up! We decided to put our ponchos on and rough it out for now. Maybe the rain would stop?!

Up next: Snacks, KP Mission, lunch, dinner...and does that Dismeet ever happen?

[creativeamanda]

Your boys look thrilled, lol, with Akershus ;)!

Love the pictures, but I can't believe Mission Space had that effect on you. I guess it affects everyone differently--I don't think I'd get back on Tower of Tower.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:lmao::rotfl2: I can't believe somebody was knitting a scarf in line, that is too funny!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Your boys look thrilled, lol, with Akershus ;)!

Love the pictures, but I can't believe Mission Space had that effect on you. I guess it affects everyone differently--I don't think I'd get back on Tower of Tower.

LOL I know...James looks like he would rather be sticking needles in his eyes!!

Thanks!! I was really caught off guard by my reaction! It wasn't the ride itself...this all happened before it even started moving. I guess maybe I could be a bit claustrophobic and didn't know it?? I did go on it later in the trip again and was fine. I prepared myself! But, Tower of Terror...I LOVE!!!!

:lmao::rotfl2: I can't believe somebody was knitting a scarf in line, that is too funny!

Yeah...it was pretty funny. I mean basically, you have to go to Disney with the intention of being bored in order to even pack the supplies, right?

[creativeamanda]

Oh, I'm sure I will get back on TOT, but I'm not necessarily looking forward to it.

Sometimes a little healthy dose of fear is okay. . .

[thechesters420]

Love your report!

[Trentmom]

Loved your boys expressions in the princess meals :rotfl:


Great pics

That is why I am afraid to go on Mission Space. I go on anything, but that just really scares me for some reason :scared1:

[Panotchr]

Love that Ariel is holding James's arm. Too funny... like.. don't you run off LOL

Stayed home again today. Haven't heard about tomorrow but it is still slushy out there. My guess is a delay. We are supposed to get more this weekend. Baylie is upset because her 13th b-day party is supposed to be Friday night. Oh well... I can't control the weather. :confused3

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

nice update!!! I feel the same way about MS. I have not issues with tight spaces but with all the health/death issues they've had with it, I guess it just freaks you out and you worry. I do what you did, I always focus on the screen and say a lil prayer before "lift off". It's an interesting ride..the type that you ride once a trip and you walk away and move on!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Oh, I'm sure I will get back on TOT, but I'm not necessarily looking forward to it.

Sometimes a little healthy dose of fear is okay. . .

LOL Your kids may just be the ones to drag you back on!! :thumbsup2

But, yeah...fear keeps the blood pumping!!!!

Love your report!

Hi!!! Thanks!!!!

Loved your boys expressions in the princess meals :rotfl:


Great pics

That is why I am afraid to go on Mission Space. I go on anything, but that just really scares me for some reason :scared1:

LOL...yeah. Not really the best meal for the boys!! But, like I said, the princesses made them get involved.

Thanks

I didn't go into the ride expecting the reaction I had. So, I surprised myself. I just thought I would ride a new ride and be done???? Somewhere we went terribly wrong!! LOL

Love that Ariel is holding James's arm. Too funny... like.. don't you run off LOL

Stayed home again today. Haven't heard about tomorrow but it is still slushy out there. My guess is a delay. We are supposed to get more this weekend. Baylie is upset because her 13th b-day party is supposed to be Friday night. Oh well... I can't control the weather. :confused3

Ha!!!! Yeah...she was the most insistant of all of them that he get up. Plus, by the time she got around to us, he had enough. Well, she didn't seem to care. So, in the picture he went...willing or not!! LOL

Wow...you are getting quite the little mini vaca!!! Now does that add on to the end of your school year? We will probably have a delay tomorrow. We are getting just a small storm tonight. But, Saturday is still up in the air for us! Awww!!! Tell Baylie that I feel for her. My sixteenth birthday party got snowed out...it was a blizzard...30" of snow!!!!! :scared1: You definitely can't control the weather...but can you reschedule the party?

nice update!!! I feel the same way about MS. I have not issues with tight spaces but with all the health/death issues they've had with it, I guess it just freaks you out and you worry. I do what you did, I always focus on the screen and say a lil prayer before "lift off". It's an interesting ride..the type that you ride once a trip and you walk away and move on!

Thanks Megan!! I didn't know I would have that reaction...but I sure found out quick! I had only heard about one death on the ride a few years ago?? I didn't know about other issues??!! Please inform!!! I did end up liking it but it does make me nervous still.

[ladybugmom]

YAY!! Great update!! We just LOVE Akershus!! :lovestruc Great pics!! I'm so sorry about what happened on Mission Space! How scary!! That is exactly why I never ride--I'm too claustrophobic!!! :scared1:

[Panotchr]

We are out again today! We got freezing rain last night. They won't add to our year. The NC legislature passed this crazy law a few years ago. It came from pressure from parents about not starting school before August 25th and not getting out after June 10th. That doesn't leave us many makeup days. So basically, we won't have Spring Break, but they are thinking of letting us do Saturdays or possibly extend our days by a couple of hours. Oh well, I have enjoyed the snow.
We will have to reschedule Baylie's party until the next weekend. I was supposed to go to the beach with some friends that weekend to work on my National Boards, but I will have to pass on that and do her party instead.

I'll tell Bay about your 30"...... at least we didn't get that. We wouldn't be going to school for weeks then. :lmao: We only got 8 this time!

[praisehisname]

Joining in!

Denise

[raider97]

Great update, Erin! We love Akerhouse. I think I would happy if they just served that yummy potato casserole. :) We were surprised to see Ariel this time too. Can't wait to hear about your lunch!!

[MadilynnsMomma]

Hey Erin - I'm back! Life has gotten a bit crazy, but I am here! I do not think a TR is in my future :sad2: , but I may post some pics. Our Ariel looked like Kathy Griffin, that alone needs to be shared with the DISworld!

[DisneyJo]

Great photos with the Princesses and I'm glad you managed to calm down on MS I'm really surprised there is no panic button in there :confused:

Too funny about the knitter in the queue :rotfl:

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

YAY!! Great update!! We just LOVE Akershus!! :lovestruc Great pics!! I'm so sorry about what happened on Mission Space! How scary!! That is exactly why I never ride--I'm too claustrophobic!!! :scared1:

Thanks! Yeah...it was pretty scary! I was able to get over it, but at the time...eh!

We are out again today! We got freezing rain last night. They won't add to our year. The NC legislature passed this crazy law a few years ago. It came from pressure from parents about not starting school before August 25th and not getting out after June 10th. That doesn't leave us many makeup days. So basically, we won't have Spring Break, but they are thinking of letting us do Saturdays or possibly extend our days by a couple of hours. Oh well, I have enjoyed the snow.
We will have to reschedule Baylie's party until the next weekend. I was supposed to go to the beach with some friends that weekend to work on my National Boards, but I will have to pass on that and do her party instead.

I'll tell Bay about your 30"...... at least we didn't get that. We wouldn't be going to school for weeks then. :lmao: We only got 8 this time!

Oh my goodness!!!! You guys are getting worse weather than us this year! No offense...better you than me! Although I wouldn't mind getting snowed in for 4 or 5 days. I always seem to get so much done when I'm forced to stay inside!!! And, the renovations we are starting require a lot of time in!! We just made a big shopping trip to Lowe's and are going to bury ourselves in the kids' rooms...only to come out when we have to for wrestling and dance...groceries...meals...etc!!!

I don't think my kids would like to have to go to school on Saturdays...but they like their summer vacation, too!!!

Yeah...8 inches for us would be one snow day and maybe a delay the next day!! We are just used to it much more than the crews in the south. You guys don't really have the trucks or materials for that, right?

Joining in!

Denise

Hi!!! Welcome!!

Great update, Erin! We love Akerhouse. I think I would happy if they just served that yummy potato casserole. :) We were surprised to see Ariel this time too. Can't wait to hear about your lunch!!

Ha!!! Yeah...I love them!! It was our first time with Ariel ever...anywhere...so that was nice! Mmmmmm...Biergarten...yummy!!!

Hey Erin - I'm back! Life has gotten a bit crazy, but I am here! I do not think a TR is in my future :sad2: , but I may post some pics. Our Ariel looked like Kathy Griffin, that alone needs to be shared with the DISworld!

WoooHoooo!!! Hope everything is ok! Yes...at least post some pix!!!!! I'd love to see a visual narration of your trip!!! I thought our Ariel was pretty. Are you still taking Madi alone in Sept?

[Panotchr]

No trucks to mention... Our neighborhood never did get scraped. It is sleeting right now. We did go to school today but we went on a 2 hour delay. It is iffy for tomorrow. I told my kids, "I'll see you guys next week." They were all cracking up!
I told Bay about the 30" and I wish you had seen her face. We are going to see what happens tomorrow with the weather before we cancel. I ordered the cake today in good faith :)

xo

[greg100308]

LOL I know...James looks like he would rather be sticking needles in his eyes!!

Thanks!! I was really caught off guard by my reaction! It wasn't the ride itself...this all happened before it even started moving. I guess maybe I could be a bit claustrophobic and didn't know it?? I did go on it later in the trip again and was fine. I prepared myself! But, Tower of Terror...I LOVE!!!!



Yeah...it was pretty funny. I mean basically, you have to go to Disney with the intention of being bored in order to even pack the supplies, right?

Umm...do you remember the weather when we were there? Maybe she just forgot her scarf at home...LOL

[MadilynnsMomma]

Because I decided to go back to school, I can't really plan a trip the week after school starts... so, I'm planning to go during week 8, which puts us at Oct 24-29! Can not wait!!! May still a sure thing, or did the negative DISers sway you :lmao:

[MEK]

I'm all caught up. Lovely installments. I love all the pictures of you and the kids at the MK. They are really cute kids! That one picture of the castle is so dark. It's hard to believe you took that in the morning, but definately cool looking. Ridemax really served you well. What an efficient day you had at the MK.

I hope your DH starts to feel better soon. That stinks to feel sick on vacation. bummer.

I think you win the "world's best mom" award for going back to DTD at 10pm to build a light saber. I don't think I could have done it.

Love the pictures of the princesses - sorry the meal was "eh".

[Raecheal]

Thanks for posting that Pina Colava Recipe MMMmmM

I love the photos of Day 2 at Epcot. Great update, can't wait to read more. popcorn::

[disneyaddicted]

I love the pictures with the princess, too cute.

Mission space was hard for me the first time, it is a small space to be crammed into but I really love the ride now. Yay for you for going on it.

I tried making the Pina Colava, it was good, but I think they taste better at Disney, maybe it's just the atmosphere that adds to the flavor?! The drink was still good though, thanks for the recipe.

[exwdwcm]

love the updates. we did Norway breakfast too and i could also take it or leave it- more on the leave it side. it seemd the menu changed some from a few years past and it just wasn't as good as it used to be.

the pics are so cute though! so sorry you had a mini freak out on MS- it is a very tight space for sure. glad it turned out okay.

can't wait for more!

[exwdwcm]

anxiously awaiting more!! :goodvibes:thumbsup2

[Trentmom]

Hey Erin

Thought I give you a bump

:goodvibes

[MEK]

I agree. I would love to see you come back and update Erin! :goodvibes

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Great photos with the Princesses and I'm glad you managed to calm down on MS I'm really surprised there is no panic button in there :confused:

Too funny about the knitter in the queue :rotfl:

Hi!!! Don't know if you are still readingor not, but I'm back and responding!! I have been busy busy busy!! MS---a panic buttin would be great however it would probably regularly delay the ride quite a bit!! The knitting lady was hilarious!!! Wish I took her picture but it would've been so obvious! :lmao:

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

No trucks to mention... Our neighborhood never did get scraped. It is sleeting right now. We did go to school today but we went on a 2 hour delay. It is iffy for tomorrow. I told my kids, "I'll see you guys next week." They were all cracking up!
I told Bay about the 30" and I wish you had seen her face. We are going to see what happens tomorrow with the weather before we cancel. I ordered the cake today in good faith :)

xo

Hey...PM'd you...are you still on here?? I now I've been MIA!!

Umm...do you remember the weather when we were there? Maybe she just forgot her scarf at home...LOL

LOL maybe????

Because I decided to go back to school, I can't really plan a trip the week after school starts... so, I'm planning to go during week 8, which puts us at Oct 24-29! Can not wait!!! May still a sure thing, or did the negative DISers sway you :lmao:

Hope you can get back on here...our first meet up is coming up as I revive this thing!!

I'm all caught up. Lovely installments. I love all the pictures of you and the kids at the MK. They are really cute kids! That one picture of the castle is so dark. It's hard to believe you took that in the morning, but definately cool looking. Ridemax really served you well. What an efficient day you had at the MK.

I hope your DH starts to feel better soon. That stinks to feel sick on vacation. bummer.

I think you win the "world's best mom" award for going back to DTD at 10pm to build a light saber. I don't think I could have done it.

Love the pictures of the princesses - sorry the meal was "eh".

Awwww!! Thanks! I guess I'll keep the kids! While I missed my hubby, it was sort-of nice spending that time alone with the kids! The weather got better that day as it went on.

LOL Logan was getting that light saber no matter what!! HA!!!

Thanks for posting that Pina Colava Recipe MMMmmM

I love the photos of Day 2 at Epcot. Great update, can't wait to read more. popcorn::

That is the best drink ever!!!

I love the pictures with the princess, too cute.

Mission space was hard for me the first time, it is a small space to be crammed into but I really love the ride now. Yay for you for going on it.

I tried making the Pina Colava, it was good, but I think they taste better at Disney, maybe it's just the atmosphere that adds to the flavor?! The drink was still good though, thanks for the recipe.

Yes!!!! It was the small space that did me in!!!

You're welcome! Anything tastes better in Disney!!!! LOL

love the updates. we did Norway breakfast too and i could also take it or leave it- more on the leave it side. it seemd the menu changed some from a few years past and it just wasn't as good as it used to be.

the pics are so cute though! so sorry you had a mini freak out on MS- it is a very tight space for sure. glad it turned out okay.

can't wait for more!

Yeah...we won't go back to Akershus for a while at least...

I ended up back on MS later in the trip.

anxiously awaiting more!! :goodvibes:thumbsup2

I'm coming back!

Hey Erin

Thought I give you a bump

:goodvibes

Thanks!! Getting ready to do some CPR to the TR!!!!

I agree. I would love to see you come back and update Erin! :goodvibes

I'm here!!! I'm going to finish this ting...I swear!!!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Ok...I have been gone for about 2 months from this TR...sorry!!! I am going to try to revive it and get it done! I am just hoping I still have some readers!!! I need to upload pictures and write up a rough draft ad then I will be posting it. So, it may not be tonight that it happens, but by tomorrow!!! We have been redoing several rooms in our house and the kidshave had a lot going on in the last two months. So, as things are settling down now, I am committed to completing this!! Anyone that is still interested in hearing how this most fun trip we ever took finishes out, please stick with me...I promise there are some great stories, fun pix and super memories!!!

Be back soon!!!! I promise!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Looking forward to it. :goodvibes

[MadilynnsMomma]

I'm still here... I may be neglecting my own, but I am here for yours :goodvibes

What's te verdict on when/who goes next to Disney?

[Panotchr]

I am here! Wow, so much to catch you up on. Emily is not better. Have been to Mayo Clinic since we last spoke. She has a chiari malformation and we also suspect that she has chronic, acute mono that has become Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I'll PM you the webpage for her and you can catch up easier that way.

Okay now... I need to know how my little man is doing in Kindergarten too... so don't hold back :)

xo

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Looking forward to it. :goodvibes

Yay!!! Glad you are hanging in there with me!!!

I'm still here... I may be neglecting my own, but I am here for yours :goodvibes

What's te verdict on when/who goes next to Disney?

Woohoo!!!! I do hope you finish yours...but if you decide against it, I want you to weigh in on mine when I come to our meet-ups!!!

Ummmm.....I am going to talk about future Disney plans in a bit...stay tuned!!!

I am here! Wow, so much to catch you up on. Emily is not better. Have been to Mayo Clinic since we last spoke. She has a chiari malformation and we also suspect that she has chronic, acute mono that has become Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I'll PM you the webpage for her and you can catch up easier that way.

Okay now... I need to know how my little man is doing in Kindergarten too... so don't hold back :)

xo

I PM'd you. I will check out that webpage.

So, Logan.....:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

The boy never ceases to amaze me!!!!

Let's see...he went through his wrestling season without a single win...poor kid...tried really hard...it'll come to him! Then, we put him in an open tournament and he won 2 matches...even pinned one of the kids and got a trophy out of the deal!!!! He was so happy and we are so proud of him!

Now we are in baseball. We were lucky...they allowed him to skip teeball (aka the most boring thing in the world to watch!!) He is playing coach pitch. They hit and play regularly, but the coach pitches instead of a kid. (Hence, the name.)

His birthday is coming up in the beginning of June, so we are starting to work on planning that. It is going to be Transformers theme. We are having it at a local cinema...it is very small - only two theaters. He had his choice - have it before his birthday and see Shrek, have it on his birthday and see Marmeduke OR have it late and see Toy Story 3. So, he opted for Toy Story!! I'm excited!

Anyway, in school, everythin is great!!! You know after I went in and flexed my muscles, the teacher loved him!! LOL His grades are very good, he is reading and does math like a champ! So, basically my boy in normal!! (Like I thought!)

BUT!!!!! The biggest news and funniest story about Logan is this...

On March 14, he lost his first tooth. He went to school on the 15th and a little girl named Victoria lost the same tooth that day. The tooth next to it was loose, but not ready to come out. Well, about a week goes by and he comes home insisting that the other loose one HAD to come out. He played with that tooth and ate apples until it was out that night. After handing it to me to prepare it for the tooth fairy, he proudly proclaimed "Isn't it so great? Victoria lost her tooth the day after me and it was the same one. Now, today she lost another one and I lost the same one again! We have the same teeth missing again!!!" I almost died! It was so darn cute! I said to my husband...if he's willing to pull teeth out for girls at 5 years old, what will he be doing for them at 16? LOL Too funny! What's better is that Victoria's mom is his reading specialist!! But, she absolutely loves him!!

Ok...that's it for the Logan updates for now!!!

[MEK]

Welcome back Erin - looking forward to reading your update! :flower3:

[MadilynnsMomma]

On March 14, he lost his first tooth. He went to school on the 15th and a little girl named Victoria lost the same tooth that day. The tooth next to it was loose, but not ready to come out. Well, about a week goes by and he comes home insisting that the other loose one HAD to come out. He played with that tooth and ate apples until it was out that night. After handing it to me to prepare it for the tooth fairy, he proudly proclaimed "Isn't it so great? Victoria lost her tooth the day after me and it was the same one. Now, today she lost another one and I lost the same one again! We have the same teeth missing again!!!" I almost died! It was so darn cute! I said to my husband...if he's willing to pull teeth out for girls at 5 years old, what will he be doing for them at 16? LOL Too funny! What's better is that Victoria's mom is his reading specialist!! But, she absolutely loves him!!



I love that :lovestruc So cute!!!

[Panotchr]

Love that Logan story!!!!
I can just see him determined to get that tooth out!
I am glad he is doing so well. Would love to have him in my class!!!

Okay... ready for the updatepopcorn::

[praisehisname]

I'm still here! :cool1:

[Trentmom]

I am still here :wizard:

Am glad to hear Logan is doing well in school :goodvibes

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Welcome back Erin - looking forward to reading your update! :flower3:

Yay!!! Thanks!! I was hoping I could get you back!! You leave soon for your trip, right? I'm hope you plan to do another TR...I'll be looking for it in about 3-4 weeks!!!! :thumbsup2

I love that :lovestruc So cute!!!

Thanks Jen!! It was so cute! He also gave a gumball machine ring to another girl...they are "married"!!! He is quite the ladies man!

Love that Logan story!!!!
I can just see him determined to get that tooth out!
I am glad he is doing so well. Would love to have him in my class!!!

Okay... ready for the updatepopcorn::

LOL I thought you would appreciate that one! The tooth WAS coming out!! Report cards came out today. I have to say that I am very fortunate that my kids are so smart. The older two both made honor roll. Lexi's lowest grade was a 99...I know...how sad!!! Logan is graded on a scale of 1-3...three being the highest. He got all 3's but 2 2's. I was very happy with them!! Anyway, I know that Logan would love to be in your class...however I think you would give him special treatment!! LOL

Update to follow...

I'm still here! :cool1:

Yay!!! Thanks for sticking with me!!!

I am still here :wizard:

Am glad to hear Logan is doing well in school :goodvibes

WooHoo!!! You guys are great! Such loyal Disfriends!!!!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

OK - back to business! I know it has been so long since we have visited this TR. So, a refresher - short & sweet. When we last left off, the family had done Akershus breakfast, Mission: Space, Spaceship Earth, Turtle Talk and Nemo. That kind of sums it all up.

So, as we came out of the Seas Pavillion, it had started raining. I got our pretty ponchos out and we all put them on. We made our way over to the land in hopes that the rain would soon pass. The line for Soarin' was of course long. So, we grabbed fast passes for later and went to Sunshine Seasons to check out the snack selection. No one really saw anything they wanted, so we just got some drinks. As we continued in the rain, the kids saw an ice cream cart and opted for Mickey bars.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3430.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3431.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3432.jpg

While they ate them, we all stood under the monorail track in an attempt to stay dry!!!

Ice cream finished, we decided to brave the rain and head towards World Showcase. We still had a 2:00 reservation at Biergarten. On the way into World Showcase, we picked up a Kim Possible fast pass. It was for the UK. So, we went on our way toward Canada. We didn't stick around too long since we would be back. But, we did get these photos:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3433.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3434.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3435.jpg

Then, off to the UK to pick up the Kimmunicator. Logan really wanted to do this, so we did. If the rest of us had the option, we would have passed (at least on this day). It took us maybe 20 or 30 minutes or so to complete the cold, wet mission. I got these pictures while in the UK:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3436.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3437.jpg

I thought their holiday window display was really cute. I didn't take anymore pictures because of the rain. So, the rest of the day is sort-of lacking.

Anyway, from there, we headed over the bridge and into France. While there, I got my first ever Grand Marnier slushie. OK...YUMMMMMM!!!!! It was so good! I had to keep it inside my poncho and sip it as we booked it towards Germany, but it was great! By the time we got to Germany, we still had about 45 minutes or an hour until our ADR. But, the water was puddling all over Epcot and we were soaked even with our ponchos. So, we went and sat in the waiting area to at least be out of the rain. They would not let us check in yet, but it was dry. After about half an hour, they let us check in and we were called soon after.

As always, the food was really good, the entertainment fun and best of all...we were dry!!!! We were seated at a table with three older people that were from a town only about 1/2 an hour from ours. So, we chatted with them the whole meal. They were all very nice. During the meal, Logan participated in a little story-telling. After that, the band played.

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3444.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3445.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3447.jpg

According to the days' plans, we were supposed to meet up with a Disfriend and her husband after lunch. Unfortunately, the rain made us all want to go back to the room. So, we ran to the front of the park and got on the next bus.

When we got back to the room, we all got changed into dry clothes and turned up the heat. I propped our shoes up on the heater to dry them out and we all laid down for a nap.

After waking up refreshed, our shoes were dry and we got ready to head back to Epcot for our dinner at Garden Grill. We love this restaurant also! As the bus arrived at the park, it was still raining, but we knew we only had a short walk to the Land. We got checked in and waited maybe 5 minutes before being called. The meal was again wonderful. As we ate and rotated, the characters came around.

[Trentmom]

I think I Remember that day. We had reservations at Rose and Crown. Rain was awful :scared1:


Grey Mariner Slushie is so good :thumbsup2

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

First we saw:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3448.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3450.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3451.jpg

Then:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3452.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3453.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3455.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3456.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3457.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3458.jpg

And:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3460.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3461.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3462.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3463.jpg

Last but not least:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3464.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3465.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3466.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3467.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3468.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3469.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3470.jpg

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3471.jpg

I took this last picture as we were finishing because my grandmother has the same lamp! LOL

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv306/erinpalys/trip%20report/IMG_3472.jpg

After our meal, we went downstairs and used our Soarin' fast passes from the morning. What a great ride! We thought about maybe taking advantage of the evening EMH's at Epcot, but it was still raining. So, we went back to POR so the kids could use the arcade minutes we got with our package. As luck would have it, when we got to the arcade, they were allowing everyone to play for free because some of the machines were down. With about an hour of video games behind them, the kids were ready and we filled our mugs with hot chocolate for the walk back to the room. Time to call it a night.

Up next : DHS day 1!!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I think I Remember that day. We had reservations at Rose and Crown. Rain was awful :scared1:


Grey Mariner Slushie is so good :thumbsup2

Yeah...it was awful!!!!

I know! I can't wait to have another and try the Grey Goose one too!!!!

You are too quick! You read and responded while I was doing the second part of the update!!!! LOL

[Trentmom]

Yeah...it was awful!!!!

I know! I can't wait to have another and try the Grey Goose one too!!!!

You are too quick! You read and responded while I was doing the second part of the update!!!! LOL


I am ready for another one of those drinks too :thumbsup2


I see that :rotfl2:

[Trentmom]

I love Garden Grill

Their food is so fresh. I love how nice and calm it is compared to Chef Mickeys or other Character meals :goodvibes

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I love Garden Grill

Their food is so fresh. I love how nice and calm it is compared to Chef Mickeys or other Character meals :goodvibes

Yeah...it is probably the quiestest character meal you can do. And, you aren't sitting on top of each other or hovering over someone elses table while taking pictures.

I'll be in South Jersey tomorrow by the way!!! My husband's cousin is getting married near Atlantic City. Not looking forward to the drive, but should be fun.

[Trentmom]

Yeah...it is probably the quiestest character meal you can do. And, you aren't sitting on top of each other or hovering over someone elses table while taking pictures.

I'll be in South Jersey tomorrow by the way!!! My husband's cousin is getting married near Atlantic City. Not looking forward to the drive, but should be fun.

Yeah, I like that part too

Oh cool

That is about an hr south of me.

Wave as you drive by :laughing:


Have fun :dance3:

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Yeah, I like that part too

Oh cool

That is about an hr south of me.

Wave as you drive by :laughing:


Have fun :dance3:

Ha!!! Ok...make sure you are watching for me!!!

[praisehisname]

Love the update! You got some fantastic pics at Garden Grill! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

Erin -

Great update and great pictures of the kids - both wet AND dry! Boy, you really had a rainy day. Makes me glad I just picked up a few extra ponchos at the dollar store. So funny - I usually buy way more than I need, but everytime I read a report about all day rain, I am glad I have the extras.

Yes - we are heading down next Sunday. I am really looking forward to it. I probably have too much planned. I am seriously considering trying out for AI and have been practicing with youtube karoke. Plus, our DVC guide called and said there are some good incentives for on site add-ons, so we might have to hook up with her, hear the incentive, and grab some fastpasses.

I am really glad you decided to resurrect your TR. You got some awesome pictures and it sounds like you had a great Epcot day despite the rainy conditions! Glad you liked Biergarten and the Garden Grill.

[creativeamanda]

Wow--Garden Grill has been totally under my radar. We're going to have to try it sometime!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

You got some super cute character photos at dinner! It seems Garden Grill always has good character interaction, too bad the food is not my cup of tea. ;)

[Panotchr]

Love the Garden Grill pictures! We liked it there too and the girls love to ride The Land, so it is fun to watch it go by as you eat.

Hope you had fun at the wedding. We have to go to a fundraiser today at our school. The weather here is cloudy, but we are expecting severe weather tonight. Guess we are going to hunker down then!

More please :)

[MadilynnsMomma]

Erin - I could just eat your kids up!!! Any time you want a break from Logan and he wants to be somebody's big brother - send him my way!!! Speaking of, any plans for a trip to the Cape this summer!?

I LOVE the pictures of the ponchos and mickey bars!!!

*GREAT idea with the hairclip attached to the sweatshirt hood and poncho hood on Lexi!

What date was this Epcot day?!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

Love the update! You got some fantastic pics at Garden Grill! :thumbsup2

Thanks!! We had a great time there! It's good food and it was a fun way to end the wet, cold day!!

Erin -

Great update and great pictures of the kids - both wet AND dry! Boy, you really had a rainy day. Makes me glad I just picked up a few extra ponchos at the dollar store. So funny - I usually buy way more than I need, but everytime I read a report about all day rain, I am glad I have the extras.

Yes - we are heading down next Sunday. I am really looking forward to it. I probably have too much planned. I am seriously considering trying out for AI and have been practicing with youtube karoke. Plus, our DVC guide called and said there are some good incentives for on site add-ons, so we might have to hook up with her, hear the incentive, and grab some fastpasses.

I am really glad you decided to resurrect your TR. You got some awesome pictures and it sounds like you had a great Epcot day despite the rainy conditions! Glad you liked Biergarten and the Garden Grill.

Thanks!!! We made the best of the day with the rain!! The food is ALWAYS good...pretty much anywhere we have gone in Epcot. Hope your trip was good and I'll be looking for a new TR!!!

Wow--Garden Grill has been totally under my radar. We're going to have to try it sometime!

Oh....try it!! I'm sure your kids will love it! They have alternate options for the kids if they don't like what comes out also!!

You got some super cute character photos at dinner! It seems Garden Grill always has good character interaction, too bad the food is not my cup of tea. ;)

Thank you! We really had great interaction...the restaurant was not very busy...maybe the rain made people leave and cancel ressies?? I love the food there, but everyone has different tastes!! That's what makes the world go round! :thumbsup2

Love the Garden Grill pictures! We liked it there too and the girls love to ride The Land, so it is fun to watch it go by as you eat.

Hope you had fun at the wedding. We have to go to a fundraiser today at our school. The weather here is cloudy, but we are expecting severe weather tonight. Guess we are going to hunker down then!

More please :)

Thank you! We try to hit that one every trip if we can!

We had a very nice time at the wedding...been busy ever since!

I'm planning to try to get another update in by the end of the weekend!

Erin - I could just eat your kids up!!! Any time you want a break from Logan and he wants to be somebody's big brother - send him my way!!! Speaking of, any plans for a trip to the Cape this summer!?

I LOVE the pictures of the ponchos and mickey bars!!!

*GREAT idea with the hairclip attached to the sweatshirt hood and poncho hood on Lexi!

What date was this Epcot day?!

LOL thanks!!! He'd love to "mentor" Madi!!!! The Cape........we are thinking about a little weekend trip there mid-August!! I'll let you know when we have some concrete plans. Baseball scheduling has to be cleared up first!!

Thanks!! I always love ice cream pix...think they always come out funny!

Hahaha!! Iforgot about the hairclip thing! That's funny you noticed it! But, it did help keep the wind from blowing the hood of the poncho off!

I think it was December 4th...yeah...our 2nd full day.