PTR/TR for November 23-27, Family of four

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello all. This is my first thread, we'll see how it goes.

So, as mentioned before, our travel dates are November 23 to the 27 of this year. I have been enjoying Disneyland every year for the last six years with my DD(9), my senior year in high school I got to go three times.:cool1: My DH's 1st time (then BF) was 2007 during the Halloweentime season. In Jan 2008 we added a DS who's 1st visit was that following Christmas (DH booked the trip and didn't know that the crowds would be horrible.) It rained most of the time and DS caught a cold. So, too keep him from getting more sick the boys stayed in the hotel while DD and I tried to enjoy the parks. My DH doesn't have the Disney bug like the rest of us and hates crowds, so he was cool with it.:) This trip I was planning on a re-do of my DS's 1st trip.


We live in the Central California area and will be driving to the Camelot Inn on the 23 (a six hour adventure). We will be spending three days in the parks
(24-26) and on the 27 we will be going home. I've never been to Disneyland during November and have read mixed reviews about the crowd level (can't be as bad as Christmas). On one morning we are planning on breakfast at the Plaza Inn and on a different evening we are planning on an Arials Grotto WOC dinner.

There will be pictures, I just don't know when. Our computer crashed, I've comadeared my DD's disney netbook. It doen't have a CD drive so i can't post anything I've already saved from previous visits and the hard drive is too small for my canon Vixia HG21 (an HD hard drive video/still shot). I was able to save some old photos on my itouch, I'll try to cut and paste those and see how that goes. Eventually I'll have a real computer and I will be able to post real pictures, so please just hang in there and be paitent.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/34b6a8d7.jpg

So, about our cast. I'm a huge (as if there is another kind) Disney junkie, Goofy is my hero. I have passed the love of the majic onto my children. My DH (who new before we started dating about my Disney habit) doesn't quite get it, but he does go along for the ride and helps to feed my obbession. I was laid off (I'm an electrician) the last week of March and DH had been working some major OT (he's a high voltage electrician) so we could go. We are even planning our 1st WDW vacation for October 2011. I'm going back to school for my engingeering degree, taking online classes until our DS goes to school(I have to take 4 calculous classes :scared1::confused3). Between unemployment and not having to pay for day care (a $14,000 a year savings) we almost balance out. DS is 2 3/4 and loves trains and Lighting McQueen:love:. He's a big kid (9 1/2 lbs 22" at birth), last height check was 38" and weighs 40 lbs. On the other end of the spectum is DD (9). She's in the 4th grade and almost a straight A student:banana:(1 B) and the shortest in her class, she weighs 5lbs more than DS her last height check came in at 54". They are both big hams, I'm sure I'll get some great pictures and video.
Rainforest Cafe
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/3416a0a6.jpg
DS's 1st B-day
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/4165ecde.jpg

Okay, so that's our story. Sorry if it's a bit TMI. I'll keep you posted on what days/times our PS's are on, I can make them next week sometime.:dance3:

[jaylensmom]

I don't live far from Tracy...I'll be checking out your TR...I would love to visit during the Christmas holiday...I can't wait to see your pictures...I'll be there for Halloween and it will be my DS5's first trip to DL...

[Goofy_Mom]

I don't live far from Tracy...I'll be checking out your TR...I would love to visit during the Christmas holiday...I can't wait to see your pictures...I'll be there for Halloween and it will be my DS5's first trip to DL...

Thanks for coming along for the ride. Are you planning on going to the TOT party? I love to hear about your DS's 1st trippopcorn::

[Goofy_Mom]

So last night I was playing with my camera. After viewing aplithera of pictures, I was inspired to learn a little more than the basics. I can now turn of the flash, take pictures in black and white/sepia, and learned to apreciate different angels:thumbsup2. I was a little difficult to take pictures without the flash at night in the garden, the camera wouldn't focus so I learned how to focus manually.:yay:

[RedRosePrincess]

Subbing! :wizard: I'm a fellow November tripper and I love that you're driving down on my birthday! :banana:

We pass by Tracy when we drive down to DL (580 to I-5).

The picture of your DS with the cake all over his face is so cute!

Great first thread! I'm considering doing a PTR/TR but I have a tendency to not take as many pictures as I want to so I don't know if my TR would be too exciting if it doesn't have a lot of pictures.

Oh, what type of camera do you have? I am considering getting a new one because I get a lot of blurry pictures from the one I have now (not sure if its me or the camera - I like to think its the camera).

[BeautyAndTheBeast22]

Another Novemeber tripper checking in! Can't wait for the TR and pics! :woohoo:

[Goofy_Mom]

Subbing! :wizard: I'm a fellow November tripper and I love that you're driving down on my birthday! :banana:

We pass by Tracy when we drive down to DL (580 to I-5).

The picture of your DS with the cake all over his face is so cute!

Great first thread! I'm considering doing a PTR/TR but I have a tendency to not take as many pictures as I want to so I don't know if my TR would be too exciting if it doesn't have a lot of pictures.

Oh, what type of camera do you have? I am considering getting a new one because I get a lot of blurry pictures from the one I have now (not sure if its me or the camera - I like to think its the camera).

I so glad you like my pictures and your coming along for the journey. The pics that are posted above are from a canon powershot, you can find them anywhere and usually for under $200. They also take video. I have a new digial HD camcorder/camera. I haven't tested at Disneyland yet, but if you would like a demo of it's (and mine) capabilites, I have plenty of pics from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and my DH's garden.

[Goofy_Mom]

Another Novemeber tripper checking in! Can't wait for the TR and pics! :woohoo:


Thanks for coming along. I saw your thread, too and I'll be following along.:thumbsup2

[Goofy_Mom]

Okay, so I know these aren't Disneyland pictures, but I wanted to share my new camera.

This is my DH's garden (a rose in sepia)
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0151.jpg

This is at Santa Cruz Boardwalk on a fast spinning ride (think the Scrambler at any carnival) left to right DS, DD, DD's BFF
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0134.jpg

[RedRosePrincess]

The picture of your kids on the spinning ride is really good quality. Hmm, I may have to get a new one before my trip.

[Goofy_Mom]

The picture of your kids on the spinning ride is really good quality. Hmm, I may have to get a new one before my trip.

You are so kind, thank you, If I may suggest? Most digital cameras shutters don't close right when you press the button. I've learned to "lead the target". I'll follow whatever I'm amiing at as I press the button. Same holds true if you are mobil and your target is stationary (the train that goes through the dinosoaur grand canyon) for instance.

It took a couple passes before I got a good, clear picture of the kids before I got this one.

Again, thank you and have fun camera shopping.:thumbsup2

[mariezp]

Checking in from the November thread! Looks like you are off to a good start on your report. What a couple of cuties you will be traveling with! I hope your DS's trip this time goes much better... for him and the entire bunch. Keep us posted with the rest of your plans. Maybe we will see you there.

[GirlFriday]

I love the picture of your DS's birthday...wow...your kids are adorable and I am excited for you and your family! I'll be keeping an eye on this thread to see how things go :)

[Goofy_Mom]

This is soooo cool!! I have a "following", neat:rotfl2:

I have an update. :dance3: We have made our PS's for our trip. While I had the dinning person on the phone, I asked some scheduling questions since there was no information on the calender. I learned that for the entire length of our stay, the park hours are
8am-12am for DL
10am-10pm for DCA
There will be two showings of WOC each night and two showings of F! each night.

On our first day in the parks (the 24th, day before Thanksgiving) we will be have breakfast with Minnie and friends at The Plaza Inn at 8:30. In past visits, we have enjoyed this resturant but never for breakfast. Their chicken is very yummy:goodvibes We're hopping that Donald Duck is out for autographs/picture in town square. If he is, that will give us time to add him to our collection. We've gone to Disneyland every year for the past 6 years and always seem to miss him.

On our last day in the parks (the 26th, black friday) We have an Ariel's Grotto/WOC dinning package, that will alow us to see the first show (9pm). Originally the time was for 6:40. After reading the WOC dinning thread, it dawned on me that the time may be too late to get a "good" spot for WOC beacuse everyone lines up around 7pm. So I changed it to 5:40. That will alow us to go potty, get some mobile snacks, and park the stroller without having to run a mini marathon.:teacher:

I also relize that sitting for more than 15 min without any enternainment for an almost 3 year old boy is going to be impossible. If anyone has ideas that will keep a busy boy reletivily happy, please share. I'm thinking bubbles (if I can find them, our Target doesn't seem to have any) and Utube on DH's droid. I'm even thinking party poppers, and small toys (matchbox cars, Thomas trains, etc.) He's also a fan of Umie Zoomie, we may put on our umie goggles and "spy" for stuff.

I didn't schedule anything for Thanksgiving day because I've heard mixed reviews about the crowd level. Also, DH doen't like being on a schedule while on vacation. I try to explain that it makes for a much smoother vacation and we won't have to wait in lines (as much) or take our chances with what is available when we are hungry. He doesn't get.

The kids are getting excited. My DS asks to watch Disneyland at least once a day (DVR'ed off directv/travel channel), he gets really animated during the small world segment and POTC segment. DD's must ride first is SM, she reminds me every day. She has also reminded me (every day) that her and her brother need to have thier pictures taken next to the plane and with a letter.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/3de78c0f.jpg
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/4c15177a.jpg

Until next time. . .

[RedRosePrincess]

I didn't schedule anything for Thanksgiving day because I've heard mixed reviews about the crowd level. Also, DH doen't like being on a schedule while on vacation. I try to explain that it makes for a much smoother vacation and we won't have to wait in lines (as much) or take our chances with what is available when we are hungry. He doesn't get.




Just an idea: you can always make a couple PS for Thanksgiving but if the crowds are too much you can choose not to use them. But it might be better to have them just in case you do decide to eat in the parks.

[Goofy_Mom]

These were taken Christmas time 2008. We can't wait to get some new Disney Holiday Memories
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/dcd90e2f.jpg
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/002bdc04.jpg

[Goofy_Mom]

So, I checked the Disneyland calender because I read on another thread here said the November calender was up. Well, kind-a. :eek:It's up to the 23. That's our travel day. We plan to be checked into our hotel by 5-ish but we aren't going to be in the parks that day, most likey gonna play in DTD. I also notice that there aren't any show times for Billy Hill and the Hillbillies or Laughing Stock, two of our favorites and on our must do list.:confused3

On a plus note, my DH ordered my birthday present (but I have to share it). He ordered from Dell a Studio 17 laptop with a Intel i-3 core processor in Plum Purple:banana:. It's supposed to be in my hands by October 12, two days before my birthday.:wizard: This is awsome. I'll be able to play with my picture better, I've got software that is compatable with and HD camcorder. I tryed to use windows movie maker to play the video from my camera, but it skips something fierce and it won't burn onto a DVD. I may even bring it into the parks to watch dvd's while we stake out our spots for WOC and F!.

[RedRosePrincess]

So, I checked the Disneyland calender because I read on another thread here said the November calender was up. Well, kind-a. :eek:It's up to the 23. That's our travel day. We plan to be checked into our hotel by 5-ish but we aren't going to be in the parks that day, most likey gonna play in DTD. I also notice that there aren't any show times for Billy Hill and the Hillbillies or Laughing Stock, two of our favorites and on our must do list.:confused3

On a plus note, my DH ordered my birthday present (but I have to share it). He ordered from Dell a Studio 17 laptop with a Intel i-3 core processor in Plum Purple:banana:. It's supposed to be in my hands by October 12, two days before my birthday.:wizard: This is awsome. I'll be able to play with my picture better, I've got software that is compatable with and HD camcorder. I tryed to use windows movie maker to play the video from my camera, but it skips something fierce and it won't burn onto a DVD. I may even bring it into the parks to watch dvd's while we stake out our spots for WOC and F!.

Sounds like a great birthday present! I've used windows movie maker to make a dvd before but it took seriously 7 hours to burn onto the actual disc but it was worth it. Hopefully, it won't take you that long! :goodvibes

Thats a good idea to about bringing the dvd's while waiting. I never thought about that.

[Goofy_Mom]

Sounds like a great birthday present! I've used windows movie maker to make a dvd before but it took seriously 7 hours to burn onto the actual disc but it was worth it. Hopefully, it won't take you that long! :goodvibes

Thats a good idea to about bringing the dvd's while waiting. I never thought about that.

I think my only concern would be it's protection during the rest of the day. I may have to run to the hotel and grab it late afternoon so I can enjoy the parks without worring about it's safety.

[FlameGirl]

On our first day in the parks (the 23rd, day before Thanksgiving)

I'm pretty sure TG is on the 25th...?

[Goofy_Mom]

I found BUBBLES!!!!:cool1::cool1: what a hard thing to find right now. Any time past April I can find them everywhere. I went to Walmart last night looking for a toddler pool cause it's been sooooo friken hot latley. We have an obove ground pool, but I don't like using it with just me and my little monkey. If something happens to me, he is all alone and can't swim or touch the bottom of the pool and keep his head above water. No such luck with the pool, but I did see bubbles. I bought the two bottles they had left, one for now and one for our disneyland trip. His "now" bottle is already half empty.:rotfl2:

I think I'll make a trip to Toysrus and see if they have bubbles and/or a kiddie pool.

[Goofy_Mom]

I'm pretty sure TG is on the 25th...?

Okay, I'm a goofball. I got my dates mixed up. We are driving on the 23rd, first day in the parks is the 24th, the day before Thanksgiving.

[Goofy_Mom]

I thought I should do an update. The Disneyland schedule is finnaly up for the entire month of November. I checked the status of my computer, Dell is finished building it and the new arrival date is the sixth.:cool1:

October is a very busy month in this house. Because Halloween is my favorite holiday, I love to decorate my house and visit the Halloween store (almost weekly). We had a kiddie Halloween party this last weekend, went to the pumpkin fair and the corn mazes. The corn mazes can expect a couple more visits from us before the month is over. In addition to the mazes, they have a country store that sells yummy pie (apple and pumpkin), fudge, and decor with a country home flair; there are pony/horse rides, a haunted house, a pumpkin launcher, train rides, scarecrow rides, tram rides, gem minning, and a petting zoo (mostly goats). The maze itself was on tv (the travel channel) for an extream Halloween countdown a couple years ago. It was voted the largest most intricate maze.

As mentioned before, my birthday is this month and later this month we are going to the Redwoods near Santa Cruz to ride the Sleepy Hollow train. Yes, I know that the original story took place near New York but that doesn't bother me. There is supposed to be other Hallowee-esque activities and a BBQ.

The party was interesting. My DD invited four friends. I had games planned, prizes ready, and food made - all with a Halloween flair. Only one showed up, her BFF. One of her friends couldn't make it because her brother's birthday was the same day, another couldn't be here because her mom said no. The last one said she was coming but never showed. So, BFF stayed the night and we ended up taking her with us to the corn mazes (her first time there).

My DD is getting more excited, I didn't know that was possible. She takes about it every day. DS watches the behind the sceans Disneyland show we recorded a few weeks back almost every day.

Lately, I've been trying to get DS to watch some different Halloween movies so he can see that the holiday is fun, not scary. I had him help me decorate outside so he could see the decorations can't hurt you. He actually held the spiders for me as we placed them in thier web.

Our plans haven't changed. We still have our Plaza breakfast on the first day and AG/WOC on our last day. I brought up the F! dessert deal to DH. I rationalized that it may be worth it just so that we wouldn't be stuck in one spot for 45min with a squirly monkey. We'll see how that goes. I'm kinda sad that our planning is done, but glad at the same time. I always worry that if I wait, I won't get the time/place that I want or it will be completely booked.

I may be a while before my next up date, I'm thinking after Hallowen, unless somthing happens that I just have to share. Untill then. . .

[Goofy_Mom]

I've added something new.

After lisenting to the Dis Unplugged posdcast about Disneyland, going over the food thread, and reading reports about crowd levels for the time we are going to be there I added another PS.

According to the reports, the crowd levels were high for Thanksgiving and the following weekend and relatively low for the days preceding. With blackout days for Thanksgiving day for AP, the crowd levels flipped last year. The report I read said that the Saturday following Thanksgiving was the lowest attended Saturday for the entire year.

So, not wanting to leave everything to chance and avoid standing in a possibly massive line to eat something, I've booked a PS for every day we are in the parks. The two travel days our food choices will be whatever we feel like in DTD. I may even talk DH into the Cheesecake Factory on our arrival day since we should be in Anhiem around 4pm.

For those keeping score, are meals are:
24th - Breakfast at the Plaza Inn with Minnie and friends 8:30 am
25th - Lunch at Cafe Orleans 1:30 pm
26th - Dinner at AG/WOC 5:40pm

You can count on pictures of all the food we eat/see. I'm very courious about the special Christmas time treats, especially the candy canes.:woohoo: I really hope to score a couple of those.

In the mean time, I've decorated the inside and outside of our house, as soon as I can I'll share those pictures as well as the 3-d witch head cake.

Toodles

[RedRosePrincess]

I think that's a smart choice about Thanksgiving Day. Its better to have a PS than not, IMO. :thumbsup2

I'm sure you'll enjoy CO, I hear its yummy!

[Goofy_Mom]

Picture time. These are off my house with Halloween decor and my witch cake. It was so hot, my poor witch started melt, she was looking more like a zombie than a witch.

I know these aren't disney related, but it keeps me busy for the pre-trip.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0165.jpg

I comprised with DD, she wanted a glow in the dark web (no green webs for me) so I got glow in the dark spiders instead.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0183.jpg

My pirate skeleton isn't finished yet, he needs an eye patch and chest full of booty (and the zip ties holding him still need trimed.)
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0182.jpg

Of all my decorations, these guys are my favorites. I call them my heads on sticks, they're torches. Later tonight I'll take some more pictures so that you can see the halloween lights on and the heads on fire
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0181.jpg

[ardenandjacksmom]

Our trip overlaps with yours, can't wait!:woohoo:

Thanks for sharing :)

[Goofy_Mom]

Our trip overlaps with yours, can't wait!:woohoo:

Thanks for sharing :)

Thanks for following along;) Have a fun trip!! Does yours overlap ours in the beging or the end?

[Goofy_Mom]

I just got my new computer the other day. This thing is insane. I'm definately bringing this down for the trip, but I don't know if it's gonna find it's way to the parks. Originally I was thinking to bring to watch DVD's while waiting for F! and WOC, but I'm thinking no. It's not a little netbook one can just wip out. The keys are the size you'ld find on an acutal keyboard and has a 10-key. Anyone sitting next to us would be able to watch whatever we're watching withou straining thier eyes, it has a 17" HD LCD monitor. I LOVE it!!! I don't have to squint or adjust the screen to make the pictures biger and I don't have to scroll left/right to see the rest of an pictures.

Happy Birthday to me (thanks Hubby:love:) I'm on this all the time. I had to transfer my itunes library, that's taking a while, and of course I have to keep up on the boards, check my email, make payments on our trip, play with the web cam, adjust my desktop, and play with my powerdirector movie maker software, ect, ect.

At night the kids and I are watching Disney's Halloween Treat on youtube in segments. It has great sound and picture.

Anyway, had to share my excitment with the rest of you. See you on the next instalment.:cloud9:

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello again. My birthday passed resently (the 14th), this last weekend I took the kids up to my mother's/Grandmother's house in Trinity County for a massive birthday celebration. Also this month for birthdays are my brothers, Grandmothers, and my Aunt's BF Vince. Mom had the place decorated in 50's decor, complete with Elvis. On the menu were items one would find at a 50's diner, the homemade chocolate shakes were awesome!!:) For my presents I received Este Lauder makeup, some bath smellies, a big red coat, and a $20 gift card for Target. I joked about the smellies and make up, I said, "So what, I'm ugly and I stink?";) For the other birthday reciepiants, I got them each a $20 Visa gift card.

Yesturday I got my childerens' halloween costums. My DD (9) is going to be a leapord and my DS(2) is going to be a pirate. I'll get pictures up as soon as I can. While at the Halloween store, I also picked up a fire couldrine (sp) and a motion sensor one hides in a pumpkin. When somebody walks by, it makes spooky noises.

Feel free to share your Halloween adventures here, too. I'ld love to hear what you all are doing.:thumbsup2

[Goofy_Mom]

Pictures:cool1:

Trick-or-treater this year are getting tootsie-pop spiders at our house
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0105-1.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0104-1.jpg

And my kids' halloween costumes:
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0106-1.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0107-1.jpg

My DD gets to wear hers at school this friday for their halloween party/parade. I'll be sure to get pictures of her all dolled up with hair and makeup done.

[Princess Row]

WE happen to have the same day for Minnie and Friends breakfast. The 23 for us too, our seating is at 9:30, so we may very well pass by one another. :upsidedow

[ardenandjacksmom]

Hi Again!

We'll be at DLR the same days :D (we drive the 23rd, arrive the 24th late afternoon/hotel pool weather permitting, parks the 25th/DCA and 26th/DL, DTD/start driving home the 27th)

We're going to Minnie and Friends, but on Friday am...our other PS is for Storyteller's on Thursday. Other than that, we'll be eating whatever we can on the cheap (and breakfast in our room) since this trip is on a serious budget!

Happy November, we're getting close!!!:woohoo:

[Goofy_Mom]

WE happen to have the same day for Minnie and Friends breakfast. The 23 for us too, our seating is at 9:30, so we may very well pass by one another. :upsidedow

I'll have to edit, our first day in the parks is the 24th. We're driving down on the 23rd and I can't talk DH into a half day at the parks. Our Plaza breakfast is on the 24th. I'll have my LGMH, if you see us feel free to say high

Hi Again!

We'll be at DLR the same days :D (we drive the 23rd, arrive the 24th late afternoon/hotel pool weather permitting, parks the 25th/DCA and 26th/DL, DTD/start driving home the 27th)

We're going to Minnie and Friends, but on Friday am...our other PS is for Storyteller's on Thursday. Other than that, we'll be eating whatever we can on the cheap (and breakfast in our room) since this trip is on a serious budget!

Happy November, we're getting close!!!:woohoo:

Kinda sounds like our arrival day plans. I'm hoping for a walk around DTD and watch the fireworks from our hotel's roof top pool.

[Goofy_Mom]

Time for another update, Halloween is done and it is now November. My DD had a wonderful time trick or treating, but it took some work to get my DS to go. At first, he didn’t want anything to do with his costume (that he picked out), but after a few trick or treat-ers at the door, he changed his mind. He wouldn’t let me take a picture of him in his costume, though.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Renaeincostume2.jpg

Our trip is paid off, now all we have to do is wait for the 23rd!!!
I explained to DH about WOC and standing room only, he didn’t look too thrilled.
I took a night time picture of my house

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Halloweennight2.jpg
and some pictures
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Renaesepia.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Drewsepia2.jpg

[Goofy_Mom]

I got a visit from the UPS guy today:cool1::banana:

Look what he brought me
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0109-1.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/IMG_0108-1.jpg

In a few short weeks I'll be packing!! This weekend sometime, I hope, I want to make a count down chain with my kids. DD wants to make her must do list. If she ever does it, I'll be sure to share. As of now she doesn't want to get autographs but does want to get pictures with characters. She said the same thing last year, but as soon as we walked under the bridge she changed her mind. We'll see what happens this year.

DS has been watching NBC, I'm hoping he'll like HMH. I showed him the ride on youtube (not a very good one) the videographer was real jumpy.

What are on your must pack lists?

[mvf-m11c]

Looks like you are already to go in less than three weeks. Got your PH, Photopass and bag tag all set and hope everything goes well during your trip during Thanksgiving week.

Every time I go to DL, I always bring my camera, camcorder, tripod backpack, zip lock bags (to put food in the bag since if you don't finish it if and want to eat it later), sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, band aids, hand sanitizer, autograph book, pen, allergy pills. Those are things that I always keep in my bag when I am in the park (except for the autograph book as you already know that I will be getting character autographs for my dad's colleagues daughters).

[Goofy_Mom]

Looks like you are already to go in less than three weeks. Got your PH, Photopass and bag tag all set and hope everything goes well during your trip during Thanksgiving week.

Every time I go to DL, I always bring my camera, camcorder, tripod backpack, zip lock bags (to put food in the bag since if you don't finish it if and want to eat it later), sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, band aids, hand sanitizer, autograph book, pen, allergy pills. Those are things that I always keep in my bag when I am in the park (except for the autograph book as you already know that I will be getting character autographs for my dad's colleagues daughters).

I asked my DD again about an autograph book. She said if she sees Donald, she wants a book. I told her we are not going to buy a book for one character, but we could bring an old one that isn't full.

Good luck to you on your search for characters:thumbsup2

[mvf-m11c]

I asked my DD again about an autograph book. She said if she sees Donald, she wants a book. I told her we are not going to buy a book for one character, but we could bring an old one that isn't full.

Good luck to you on your search for characters:thumbsup2

That is a good idea to use an old autograph book and fill out the remainding pages with character autographs.

Thx for the confidence.

[Goofy_Mom]

That is a good idea to use an old autograph book and fill out the remainding pages with character autographs.

Thx for the confidence.

anytime:thumbsup2

[IndayMichelle]

In a few short weeks I'll be packing!!

What are on your must pack lists?

Me too!!! I can't wait! I'm so stinkin' excited I can't stand it!

I am definitely bringing moleskin. I don't care if you have the most comfortable shoes in the world, they always manage to rub one spot the wrong way...

I also bring baby wipes, even though we don't have kids. I eat so many sticky things in that park!

What about you?

[Goofy_Mom]

Me too!!! I can't wait! I'm so stinkin' excited I can't stand it!

I am definitely bringing moleskin. I don't care if you have the most comfortable shoes in the world, they always manage to rub one spot the wrong way...

I also bring baby wipes, even though we don't have kids. I eat so many sticky things in that park!

What about you?

On my must pack list:
sunscreen
2 first aid kits, a mini one for the parks and a full size one to stay at the hotel.
Motrin
snacks for the hotel, car trip, and the parks.
sweaters/coats
swim suits
tons of patience

[Goofy_Mom]

Mini update. We had craft time with the kids, we made a count down chain. I asked my DD if she would make a list, a top ten of each park of what her absolute must ride/do. We used Disney's site for a reference. I noticed something odd about thier attraction list. The have Pixie Hollow, Rapunzel & Flynn, and Duffy listed but not Princess Fantasy Fair. Anyway, the top ten list (in no order)

Disneyland Park Top Ten:
1. Space Mountain
2. Splash Mountain
3. Big Thunder Mountain
4. Indiana Jones
5. Gadgets Go Coaster (not sure how this made the top ten)
6. Matterhorn
7. Autopia
8. Holiday Haunted Mansion
9. Chip and Dale Tree House (again, not sure how this made the list)
10. Mark Twain River Boat (she has never been on it and wants to try)

California Adventrue Top not quite Ten:
1. Toy Story
2. The Animation Building (everything inside this building)
3.Golden Zypher
4. Grizzly River Run
5. It's Tought to be a Bug
6. Sorin

I did talk her into trying Screamin, we'll see how that goes. She said she also would go on Tower of Terror with me, but it's not on her must ride list.

[ardenandjacksmom]

Mini update. We had craft time with the kids, we made a count down chain. I asked my DD if she would make a list, a top ten of each park of what her absolute must ride/do. We used Disney's site for a reference. I noticed something odd about thier attraction list. The have Pixie Hollow, Rapunzel & Flynn, and Duffy listed but not Princess Fantasy Fair. Anyway, the top ten list (in no order)

Disneyland Park Top Ten:
1. Space Mountain
2. Splash Mountain
3. Big Thunder Mountain
4. Indiana Jones
5. Gadgets Go Coaster (not sure how this made the top ten)
6. Matterhorn
7. Autopia
8. Holiday Haunted Mansion
9. Chip and Dale Tree House (again, not sure how this made the list)
10. Mark Twain River Boat (she has never been on it and wants to try)

California Adventrue Top not quite Ten:
1. Toy Story
2. The Animation Building (everything inside this building)
3.Golden Zypher
4. Grizzly River Run
5. It's Tought to be a Bug
6. Sorin

I did talk her into trying Screamin, we'll see how that goes. She said she also would go on Tower of Terror with me, but it's not on her must ride list.

Looks like your trip is really coming together!! Your daughter made a good list--of all the Disney trips we've taken, I've still never been in the Haunted Mansion and I'm trying to figure out how to convince DS that it's funny ahead of time so he won't be too scared so we can go:upsidedow

[Goofy_Mom]

Looks like your trip is really coming together!! Your daughter made a good list--of all the Disney trips we've taken, I've still never been in the Haunted Mansion and I'm trying to figure out how to convince DS that it's funny ahead of time so he won't be too scared so we can go:upsidedow

My DD thinks the HMH version is way less spooky than the original. Youtube can maybe help, that way he can see it before he goes on the ride. When the christmas season starts, they add snow to the graveyard scean.

[Goofy_Mom]

Single digits:cool1::woohoo::banana::santa::yay::dance3:: cheer2:

[Goofy_Mom]

We are leaving today as soon as we're packed and showered!!! DH says late last night "I'm calling in tomorrow and telling tham that your dad gifted us an extra day an Disneyland" I say "if only" DH "what if we did leave tomorrow instead of Tuesday?" I'm all :woohoo: Thanks DH:hug: So last on I'm on the net looking for a hotel/motel for one night. I find Motel 6 on Ketella for $53 for a two queen room. Then I start sweating, we already have the tickets. Okay I say, how expensive can a one day hopper be:scared1: $101 each. Not good. Thanks to all the experts here, I learned that I can upgrade a 3 day hopper for a 4 day hopper. A little research says the difference will at most be $90 total. So I call Disney Travel and they say the difference will be $30 total :dance3: I just go to the Disney Travel store with my tickets and my reservation number.

So I'm packing now, running the kids under the water and getting everything in order for a 12pm departure which should put us in the land right around dinner time.

[mvf-m11c]

We are leaving today as soon as we're packed and showered!!! DH says late last night "I'm calling in tomorrow and telling tham that your dad gifted us an extra day an Disneyland" I say "if only" DH "what if we did leave tomorrow instead of Tuesday?" I'm all :woohoo: Thanks DH:hug: So last on I'm on the net looking for a hotel/motel for one night. I find Motel 6 on Ketella for $53 for a two queen room. Then I start sweating, we already have the tickets. Okay I say, how expensive can a one day hopper be:scared1: $101 each. Not good. Thanks to all the experts here, I learned that I can upgrade a 3 day hopper for a 4 day hopper. A little research says the difference will at most be $90 total. So I call Disney Travel and they say the difference will be $30 total :dance3: I just go to the Disney Travel store with my tickets and my reservation number.

So I'm packing now, running the kids under the water and getting everything in order for a 12pm departure which should put us in the land right around dinner time.

I hope u have a great this week and I'll keep track of your TR Goofy_Mom. Good thing that u can upgrade the PH ticket instead of paying for a one full day PH ticket. It would be crazy if DL didn't allow u to add more days to your PH ticket.

Thx for the tip for the character breakfast that I have done on Saturday. Got a lot of pics and the autographs from the characters. My dad's colleague daughters will be very excited to see the autograph books on Christmas day.

[Goofy_Mom]

We have arrived. Unfortunatly it's too late to take the kids on a 15 min treck to DTD, we pulled into Motel 6 around 8pm. Traffic was horrible, as usual, in the LA area. The motel is noting special. I learned that their pool is heat to 84 degrees. Little monkey is having a blast running around in the room, as far as he knows, this is Disneyland. I did take pictures of our motel room and will post all the pictures when we get home.

[smile4stamps]

We have arrived. Unfortunatly it's too late to take the kids on a 15 min treck to DTD, we pulled into Motel 6 around 8pm. Traffic was horrible, as usual, in the LA area. The motel is noting special. I learned that their pool is heat to 84 degrees. Little monkey is having a blast running around in the room, as far as he knows, this is Disneyland. I did take pictures of our motel room and will post all the pictures when we get home.

You left home at noon and got there at 8pm :scared1: I'm trying to figure out what time I need to leave next monday... How much caffeine am I going to need since I work the night shift before I drive down... :confused3

[Goofy_Mom]

You left home at noon and got there at 8pm :scared1: I'm trying to figure out what time I need to leave next monday... How much caffeine am I going to need since I work the night shift before I drive down... :confused3

Actully, we did hit the road until 1pm. We had the car loaded by 12:30 but had to stop for gas and lunch. We stopped for dinner at a Jack in the box on the other side of the grapvine and there were one or two bathroom breaks along the way.

[Goofy_Mom]

We have returned. We had a great time. The parks were crowded all four days, but not christmas crowded. We did get most everything on our list done. There were some things not on the list but still would have liked to do if the lines weren't crazy. The lines for Rapunzel, Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, Alice, and Storybook never got below an hour and were usually more like 75-90 minute waits. There were only a couple of "bad guest" incidents, but nothing that would ruin a vacation.

Stand by for an acutal day by day review. There will be pictures, and maybe a video or two. I have to go through them and load them onto photobucket and we all know how long that can take.:thumbsup2

[mvf-m11c]

We have returned. We had a great time. The parks were crowded all four days, but not christmas crowded. We did get most everything on our list done. There were some things not on the list but still would have liked to do if the lines weren't crazy. The lines for Rapunzel, Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, Alice, and Storybook never got below an hour and were usually more like 75-90 minute waits. There were only a couple of "bad guest" incidents, but nothing that would ruin a vacation.

Stand by for an acutal day by day review. There will be pictures, and maybe a video or two. I have to go through them and load them onto photobucket and we all know how long that can take.:thumbsup2

Can't wait to read your TR and see your pictures. Looks like it was a crowded week with the lines for Rapunzel, Tink, PP, Alice and Storybook more than one hour wait.

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello

We leave Tracy, CA around 1:30 pm and arrive in Anaheim around 8pm. We stopped a few times for bathroom breaks and food and there was heavy traffic driving in the LA area. I had hoped that we would have arrived sooner so that we could play in Downtown Disney for a while, but a 8pm and all that driving (I was behind the wheel for the entire trip) I wasn’t really feeling like taking a couple restless kids and a cranky Daddy into the cold night. So, we play at our motel and have a few snacks that we brought with us (apples and pretzels with peanut butter) while watching Netflix.

Here’s a few shots of our hotel[COLOR="black"]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Motel6DaddyDrew.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Motel6Drew.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Motel6Renae.jpg

[kaoden39]

I think you did pretty good time wise on the drive down. I have been caught in LA traffic and am not a fan. At all. I used to do all the driving but I have started "letting" DH share in the driving.

If it was during the summer when you went and the hours were as long during your trip I could see taking the trek to the park but hey when you guys got there I say rest up for a crazy next day.

[skiingfast]

Are your hotel pics from the Cametlot or Motel 6? If it was the motel six how was is? Did you walk to the park from it?

[stich626]

Gotta subscribe!

[Goofy_Mom]

I think you did pretty good time wise on the drive down. I have been caught in LA traffic and am not a fan. At all. I used to do all the driving but I have started "letting" DH share in the driving.

If it was during the summer when you went and the hours were as long during your trip I could see taking the trek to the park but hey when you guys got there I say rest up for a crazy next day.

I have no idea why DH refuses to drive, it would have been nice to have a break. I agree about heading to the parks during summer, the weather would have been nice and more than likely still some daylight when we arrived at the hotel

Are your hotel pics from the Cametlot or Motel 6? If it was the motel six how was is? Did you walk to the park from it?

These are from Motel 6. It was plain, the decor was very contemporary. One wall was painted burt orange, the same color as the stripe on the bed spread. We didn't head to the parks that day. Originally I had wanted to go to DTD for a bit. According to the front desk, we were 1 mile away. After we checked in I didn't feel the little ones would have been able to handle the walk in the very cold night. Even if they were, a 15 minute walk would have turned into a 30 minute crawl. I shudder to think how long it would have taken on the way back.

Gotta subscribe!

Glad to have you along:thumbsup2

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello again. Gather around, grab some popcorn and a blankey, and let me tell you a tale about Tuesday the 23nd. We wake up around 7, have a run through the shower, and gather our gear to check out of Motel 6. We did hear the pitter patter of excided feet above us (we were on the ground floor). No problems with checkout got in the car and drove the mile to our “permanent” hotel the Camelot Inn. I park the car, leave DH and the kids in the car to make sure I could leave the car in the lot while we play in the parks, and maybe check in early. No dice with the check in early, but I was able to register and leave the car in the lot. I asked if I could request a floor, again no problem, if it’s available they would give me a preferred floor. Mine was #5, the top floor so we didn’t have to hear happy feet above us. What’s the difference between registering and check in, you ask? (I know I did) Registering is getting the info in the system, check in is getting your key. We planned to be back late afternoon to haul our gear to the top floor.

Off to get breakfast. During this time DH is calling the shots. I have a very typical hubby, doesn’t listen to anyone’s advice (especially his wife’s) unless he asks for it. Can anyone guess where we went for breakfast? Yup, Captain Kidd’s. To his defense, the last time he was there was two years ago. Back then, this place had a menu and a buffet. The menu was actually good and not expensive. I asked how long ago they got rid of the menu. Turns out they did away with it sometime last year. So I brace myself for what I know is coming. I go and get DS his cereal with DD, who also chooses cereal. I also pick out a couple of things DS might eat including a waffle (I watched the guy pull it out of the waffle maker so I know it’s fresh). I get back to the table with the good for my littlest one. DH asks where my food was. I tell him I didn’t see anything I wanted. He says “You need to not be so picky” as he goes to get his food. I look at his plate when he returns, there’s not much on it. Of course I’m waiting for this. “Honey, where’s your food?” He says there isn’t much to choose from and what there was looked awful. I love the “I told you so” moments. He didn’t eat much.

After our little snack, we head to DTD to upgrade DD and my tickets to four days. By now it’s 9am. I should mention that we are without a stroller for much of the time cause silly me left it at home (quite by accident, I assure you). DS is walking with his monkey leash strapped to his back. EVERY Mickey he sees he gets SUPER excited. On the buses, the trashcans, the big banner above the pedestrian entrance, everything made this little guy light up with excitement. About ¼ of the way down the walk I say to DH, “Can you tell he’s excited?” We don’t rush him, not once. We let him enjoy himself but did keep a forward motion. I didn’t time it, but I wouldn’t have been surprised if it took us a ½ and hour to get from the pedestrian entrance, across the esplanade, and to DTD. The slow pace (very enjoyable) through DTD while seeing it through DS eyes was very nice. He looked at the widow displays in World of Disney and played with a couple fountains. Then he sees Ridemakerz, Lord help us. My little monkey is a HUGE Cars fan. We spend about 15 minutes looking around and ask a few questions about how “it” is done. For those not in the know, I’ll share. Ridemakerz is like Build a Bear, but for boys. You build a car; you choose a body, wheels, tiers, and things to “trick out” the engine/ stickers that simulate a custom paint job. Very cool and lots of fun. Before we left we decided that each of us could have one souvenir (not counting Mickey ears and an ornament each). This was to be DS’s souvenir, but not today, I didn’t want to carry it while in the parks without a stroller. We would come back before we leave and let him build a car. So we head to the Disney Travel store for the day upgrade. I take DD with me; DH keeps DS with him so he can run around near the movie theater. While I’m upgrading, I’m asked why not all the tickets for an extra day. I tell them that DH wanted to spend a day in DTD by himself to see a movie and look around. They suggested ESPN Zone. I inform them that DH isn’t a sports fan. The lady says neither is her hubby but he can spend a whole day in there and the food is fantastic. Here’s a shot of the DTD tree, very pretty.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DLmainsttree.jpg

So we’re off. I tell DH the stuff I just learned about ESPN Zone. He says “you know I’m not a big sports guy” I tell him I’m aware of that but you’ll still have fun in there. Remember what I said about my hubby and not taking advice? Apply here. We say our good byes to Daddy and board the monorail into the parks, our first official ride. DS is excited to ride a train. If you were here the same day, I was wearing a blue Bumble shirt (the abominable snowman from the Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer movies). I got a lot of compliments on it. When we get to the park, it’s super crowded (it’s 11 now). We take a little walk around to see what the lines are looking like, all long. By the time we made it to Fantasyland, I decided no matter where we go we are going to see lines. I decided to tough it out and get in a line. Our first ride of the day? Mr. Toad’s wild ride, the wait was about 40 minutes but went pretty fast. Here are some pictures of our adventure.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewMrToad.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RenaeMrToad.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/MrToad.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/ToadHall.jpg

After we disembarked our toad cars, DS and I head to the carousel and DD goes to Snow White’s scary adventure. Our wait was 10 minutes, DD was on and off Snow White by the time DS saddled his horse.
DS on the horse
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Drewhorse.jpg
Its lunch time now, we head to Riverbelle Terrace. Wouldn’t you know it; everyone gets hungry at the same time, so we waited a bit. I snapped a quick picture of the crowds in NOS. It’s about 1pm.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/NOS1pmTue23rd.jpg

I've shared this photo on the "Never again Thanksgiving" thread, you may have already seen it

[RedRosePrincess]

I snapped a quick picture of the crowds in NOS. It’s about 1pm.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/NOS1pmTue23rd.jpg

I've shared this photo on the "Never again Thanksgiving" thread, you may have already seen it

Wow!:scared1: That's really packed. I just wonder if a lot of people go into DL because so much of DCA is under construction. Hopefully when Carsland opens and everything else, it won't be as crowded. I'm glad that we went over Veteran's Day weekend instead because it was still crowded but not like that.

Can't wait to read more!

[kaoden39]

Wow!! What a crowd!! That is awful!! I complained about the crowds in June. Never again.

[mvf-m11c]

I am reading your TR with popcorn:: by me and from what you said on your TR it is a bizarre day with the park being crowded when you got in at 11. But with schools cutting down on days around Thanksgiving week, I would expect something like this would happen with heavy crowds at DL during Thanksgiving week. I thought you would get there early but you spend your first part of the morning at DTD. You got to go to these different stores and the ESPN Zone at DTD.
Can't wait to read more of your TR.

[Goofy_Mom]

Wow!:scared1: That's really packed. I just wonder if a lot of people go into DL because so much of DCA is under construction. Hopefully when Carsland opens and everything else, it won't be as crowded. I'm glad that we went over Veteran's Day weekend instead because it was still crowded but not like that.

Can't wait to read more!
I can't wait for Carsland to open. DS is a HUGE cars fan. I'm hoping it'll pull people away from TSMM, too.

Wow!! What a crowd!! That is awful!! I complained about the crowds in June. Never again.
I know, right? We went the week after 4th of July weekend. It was awesome. Moderate crowds and the weather never got above 80. We even were able to go back to our hotel and soak our feet in the hot tub, one night we watched the fireworks from our hotel pool. Even with the breaks we were able to ride everything we wanted (our favorites two or three times), get pictures with all the characters we saw, and not feel like we were running a marathon.

I am reading your TR with popcorn:: by me and from what you said on your TR it is a bizarre day with the park being crowded when you got in at 11. But with schools cutting down on days around Thanksgiving week, I would expect something like this would happen with heavy crowds at DL during Thanksgiving week. I thought you would get there early but you spend your first part of the morning at DTD. You got to go to these different stores and the ESPN Zone at DTD.
Can't wait to read more of your TR.

On days I know will be busy I like to get to the gates at park opening. I wasn't running the show this particular morning. I had to keep reminding myself that this was a bonus day. Originally we would have still been on the rode and would have played in DTD after we checked into our hotel. That mindset helped a lot with facing the crowds. It also helped that the parks were open late.


I'm glad you all are enjoying my report. I'll be sure to keep up on it and hopefully will get it finished before I forget what we did.:thumbsup2

[kaoden39]

It is great fun. I always love hearing about peoples trips.

[deejdigsdis]

Oh my goodness...that crowd picture! :scared1: That is just crazy. It looked miserable. You seem to have had a great attitude about it though. I love how you let your little guy lead the way at his pace. :)

[Goofy_Mom]

When last we met, we were at Riverbelle Terrace in line for lunch and I showed you what the crowds looked like in NOS around 1pm.

So, while in line a conversation is struck up between me and the lady behind me. I don’t know who did the striking, we just starting commenting on the crowds and how everyone eats lunch at the same time. My little monkey is going nuts because we are waiting in line that moves very slowly. To make matters worse, I don’t have a second adult with me to snag a table when one becomes available, we’ll just have to trust our luck. My DD is small for her age, no one would see her holding a table and commandeer it, besides I think she’s still too little to be left on her own for an extended period of time at an overcrowded Disneyland. So we order our food. I got the chicken sandwich with a side of fruit and water, the kids each got a pb&j with grapes and a chocolate milk. We didn’t find a table, so I squeezed our trays on a spot between two people on the stone “bench” area near The Stage Door. We stood and ate. I didn’t get any pictures of this food, but it was rather tasty. The kids’ food was the uncrustable sandwiches you would find in your grocers’ freezer.

After lunch we brave the crowds and head through NOS. I wasn’t as bad is it looked, people could still actually move. What made it look bad was the line for POTC. There was a 40 min wait:scared1:; they had it roped off all the way to the Haunted Mansion. The HMH line wasn't much better, so we picked up some fastpasses and headed for the railroad at DS request. Only a 10 minute wait. I’ve seen this numerous times, every time I see it I laugh.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/HangingpantsNOSRR.jpg

We do a full lap, DS is having a blast and I take some pictures. Let me remind you again that during this time (and much of the time in the parks) it’s just me and my kids, my kids come first. As much as I would have loved to stroll and really focus on way cool pictures, it just wasn’t in the cards this trip. DH commented yesterday that my pictures were horrible (jokingly) and that I needed more practice. So, with that said, these are the results of my pictures.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DisneylandRRStation.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASWfromRR.jpg

DS did very well on the train up until the Grand Canyon scene, and then he got a little clingy. When we got off he says “go again!?” So we disembark and head to Critter Country for Splash Mountain. The sign says 25 minutes, very doable. So we’re in line and making our way to the “mouth” of the mountain , while waiting there is a snack “wagon” selling ice cream and cotton candy. What the heck, we’re on vacation, I buy the kids some cotton candy to share. I figure it’ll be gone by the time we reach the end of the line. A CM stands at the mouth of the “mountain” and pulls DS out of line to measure him, he’s an inch too short. I didn’t even think to measure him; we just got in line like we’ve done this a thousand times. The reason I didn’t measure him is because during the summer he was 38 inches and at the time of this trip he was wearing a 4t (remember, he’s only still 2). The CM insisted that he was too short, but there was a single rider line. So DD rode alone and DS and I got in line to see Eoore and Winnie the Pooh.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/MommyDrewwPoohEoore.jpg

DD is still not quite done with SM, so DS and I head into the Critter Country store for a quick treat, a gingerbread cookie. While waiting in yet another slow moving line, DD comes out and announces that she got pictures with Brer Bear and Brer Fox. Right on!! Okay, my turn for goodies. I make sure to ask if the cookie is soft or crunchy, soft- score! The cookie was excellent, I shared it with DD, DS denied the tasty treat. We next get on the Winnie the Pooh ride, DS loves it. Towards the end of the ride he informs me that he needs to use the potty, so we make a hasty exit and make our way to the Hungry Bear for the use of the facilities. DS made it to the potty like a big boy.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Makingdippedmarshmellows.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Dippingpretzels.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Cupcakes.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/TreatsCCstore.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Honeypotapples.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/hephelumpinCCstore.jpg

Now its 3:45pm, time to meet DH at the hotel to check in and haul our gear to our room. I did get the top floor as requested and the elevator was only 7 units away from our room. Everything goes smoothly, we visit a little bit about our adventures thus far, give daddy a kiss good bye, and we’re off back to the parks. It’s dark by now, I think 5ish. DH requests that DS get a “good” spot for the fireworks, no problem I say.
Before heading back into the parks, I rent a stroller for the little one and we head back to NOS to use our FP’s for HMH. DS has been watching this movie almost daily since October; I really think he’ll like it. He does, he’s a little scared during some really dark parts, but otherwise does very well. Next up is Jungle Cruise. I wanted DS to ride an “outside” ride to settle his nerves a bit after a “dark” ride. With it being dark outside, it didn’t help much. He was okay with it, but not a huge fan. Okay, one last try for an attraction. I’m thinking the boy may be overstimulated, tired, and cold. It had started to sprinkle a little while we were waiting for the Tiki Room. Cold or not, it’s a law to enjoy a doll whip while waiting/watching the Tiki birds. The kids don’t like the frozen treat; I have to ask myself if they are mine. (Kidding, don’t send me hate mail). To my surprise, DS is loving the birds that sing words and the flowers that croon, up until the thunder. I have to admit, that part always makes me jump, too.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Tikidrummers.jpg

It’s now 7pm, time to stake my spot for the fireworks show. On the way to the hub, we stop by Bangle BBQ. I kids a mickey pretzel and I get safari skewers and chicken skewers, all of which is super yummy. I did manage to get a shot of the castle at night

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Castlenight.jpg

I also got video of the castle lighting ceremony followed by snow, unfortunately photobucket is having major issues loading HD video, it freezes after 7% complete. So fireworks start at 8:40, we have about an hour and a half before they start. I let DD go off to ride Buzz Lightyear, she has a cell and now that DS is in a stroller, I can concentrate more on my cell going off. By the time DD returns from Buzz, DS is asleep and it starts to sprinkle again. So that my DS stays warm and relatively dry (I don’t want him getting sick) I take off my hoodie and put it over him like a blanket. After about 15 minutes I feel his hands to make sure he’s warm, yup nice and toasty. I’m doing alright; I much prefer the cold to heat. As long as my feet stay warm and dry I do okay. Five minutes before the fireworks start it starts to actually rain. A nice lady sitting near us shared an extra umbrella with me and a ripped Dora the Explorer poncho with my DD. She had a daughter with special needs and a fully loaded wheelchair, the poncho ripped while trying to put it over her daughter. They ended up buying a bigger one and said they were going to throw the ripped one away. The fireworks were great, though short (only 10 minutes) DS slept through the entire thing. After the show, I give the nice lady back her umbrella. She asks if I would like a blanket, I decline; she’s been more than generous. We make the long walk back to stroller rental to return the stroller. DD and I split up the load; we have a purse each (mine is back pack style) and the camera and DS. DD carries her purse and the camera; I have my purse and DS. He’s still wearing my hoodie like a blanket and sleeps the entire walk back to our hotel.

I’m thinking we would drop off DS and DD and I would go back to the park. No such luck, DH wants us to stay there, but sends me out to Mickey-D’s for some sort of snack.

So that’s the first day in the parks. It was the only day I took notes on, I’ll have to rely on my pictures for the rest of the trip. Until next time.

[kaoden39]

I love the picture of the castle. How beautiful is that?

[Markie Mouse]

So awesome! Can't wait for more. Im guessing either your DH is not a big Disney fan or you go way too often but if I was given a choice to get an extra day at the Land with my babies, you bet I would not pass that up. LOL. Love the pictures, they're making it harder for me to wait for my trip.

[mvf-m11c]

Great pics of DL especially the castle. I also like the first pic on your TR of NOS by the DLRR. That is a very interesting pic of the tunnel. Just like what you said on your first part of your TR of DL being very crowded. The treats at Pooh's corner look so delicious to get.

I'm looking forward to reading more of your TR. :thumbsup2

[Goofy_Mom]

I love the picture of the castle. How beautiful is that?

It takes my breath away every time I see it:love:

So awesome! Can't wait for more. Im guessing either your DH is not a big Disney fan or you go way too often but if I was given a choice to get an extra day at the Land with my babies, you bet I would not pass that up. LOL. Love the pictures, they're making it harder for me to wait for my trip.

Your guessed correctly, DH doesn't quite get the magic. This trip was his 3rd time there. As you'll discover, most of the trip he's not around. He gets a cold and his ankel swells up so he's grounded to the hotel for much of the trip.

Great pics of DL especially the castle. I also like the first pic on your TR of NOS by the DLRR. That is a very interesting pic of the tunnel. Just like what you said on your first part of your TR of DL being very crowded. The treats at Pooh's corner look so delicious to get.

I'm looking forward to reading more of your TR. :thumbsup2

Thanks mvf-m11c, I was tring to get a better shot of the pants, makes me giggle every time I see it.

[kaoden39]

My DH doesn't get the magic either. He usually spends at least part of one day every trip back in our room. There is always a reason but I see it. That is why I am making my next trip with a friend and not with him.

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello again. It is now Wednesday the 24th. Today we have breakfast reservation at the Plaza Inn with Minnie and Friends. Breakfast is at 8:30, I timed it that way just in case Donald Duck was in Town Square. The plan for the day was have breakfast, ride a few rides, then head to DCA around 11am. DH is complaining that he isn’t feeling well. He says he’ll call us later and meet up with us, but first I need to run to the mini mart and get some cold medicine. The kids and I leave the hotel for the parks at 7:30. Can you tell they’re excited?

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RandomRenae.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RandomDrew.jpg

So no Donald in Town Square, but we do have time to get our Mickey ears. DS doesn’t want a hat; he gets a light up Buzz Lightyear instead. Yesterday we were looking at the Mad Hatter next to the Tea cups but we didn’t see anything we really liked. Today we looked inside the Mad Hatter on Main Street to see what the parts look like for the build it yourself hats. We very much like. DD made a blue hat with a sorcerer Mickey patch on the front and a castle patch on the back and silver ears with clear rhinestones. Mine is a black hat with a Jack Skellington head patch on the front and black ears with pink rhinestones. We both get our names on them. They now have the option of getting two lines in case you want to remember the date or commemorate something important. After we’re done getting our hats made up, we walk out just in time to see the White Rabbit coming out. DD gets very excited and is the first one in line to get his autograph and picture. Yes, she wanted his autograph. The one who said no autographs this year.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/WhiteRabbitwRenaeDrew.jpg

DS sees the Omnibus and really wants to get on. No problem, says I. All aboard; we get on the top section and away we go. We get off at the hub and mosey our way to the Plaza and check in (I think we are 5 minutes early). They seat us right away. We got our picture taken, DD got a button, and both kids got a balloon. Let me describe our spot. When we walk in, the food area is in the center. The seating areas are to the left, right, and outside. We make a right, our table is on the left hand side in a corner next to a pony wall. At first I was worried that the characters wouldn’t come to us because we were kinda hidden. Those worries quickly vanished; a lot of characters came to see us.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/TiggerwRenae.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/PoohwRenaeDrew.jpg

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Alice and the Hatter never made it to our side of the restaurant. We saw them on the left side and then outside when we were leaving.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/AliceHatter.jpg

The food was fantastic. The kids had cereal and I had eggs, sausage, OJ, and a few other breakfast items that I can’t quite remember at the moment. I did buy the picture they took of us. It was $29 for a 5x7 of us, a 5x7 of Minnie, and two 4x6’s of us. My kids are very photogenic, but I’m not. I have to like how I look in a picture before I buy it. After breakfast, I load the pictures into my day pack, make sure the kids have their balloons and I have my camera before heading out to tackle the park. Peter pan is already over an hour. Dumbo is only a 20 minute wait so we get in line. DD does a quick jaunt to Pinocchio and meets us in the Dumbo line when she’s done. The CM holds our balloons for us while we enjoy the ride. Most of the CM’s do this for us. The only one that didn’t was the carousel. DS really love the horse ride. After Dumbo that is the ride he wants to ride next. DD went to ride the tea cups. This time DS got on the lead horse.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewonJingles.jpg

We picked up DD at the tea cups and got in line for the Casey Jr. Train. DS choses the monkey car. While waiting in line, we saw a plaid with a group of people on the storybook boats. Had I been thinking, I would have snapped a quick picture. I didn’t recognize anyone in the boat. DS is loving the rides. After the train we head deeper into Fantasyland. Alice is up to 45 minutes as is the storybook boats, IASW queue snakes all the way to the little store in the middle of the land. So we head to Tomorrowland and grab a couple FPs for Space Mountain. The return time is 6pm, it’s not yet noon. Autopia is next on our list. The standby line says 40 minutes. I’ve noticed that the FP line is usually just as long as the standby line for this attraction. The plan was for DD to drive her own car and DS to follow in our car. DD is too short for her own car, but they both want to drive. The CM is great. She says first time around DD drives, when we’re done come see her and we can get back on right away so DS can drive.
It’s now 1pm, a little later than I wanted it to be, but we leave DL and head toward DCA with a pit stop at the stroller rental to pick DS’s stroller. We get a quick snack for lunch and do a little walk around Hollywood Blvd to get our bearings a little. We have over an hour before Playhouse Disney starts, so we play in the Animation Studios for a while. DD goes off to learn how to draw (Donald Duck this time) while DS and I go and have a talk with Crush. Dori made an appearance during the Crush show and taught us how to speak whale. We all had a good time. All of us headed into the sorcerer’s workshop for a while. DS really like the spinning balls; I had a hard time getting him out of there so we could do the next room. Beast’s library was really busy; I took a couple pictures while we were waiting our turn.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewwfireinAA.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RoseinAA.jpg

DS helped me with my choices on what character I am. With his help, I’m Maleficent. DD got Nala. Next up Ursula borrows our voices and puts them in a scene. We choose the Simba/Scar scene – it wasn’t pretty. After we’re done in the academy, we see Handy Manny outside.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/HandyMannywRenaeDrw.jpg

I get the kids a churro each and water for me and get in line for Playhouse Disney. While waiting in line DH calls and checks up on our status. I let him know where we’re at and what we’re up to. He asks that we come get him after we’re done, okay I say. Its vacation, I’m not going to argue that it would just be easier to meet us here. All that would do is start a fight. DS LOVED Playhouse Disney. We head out of the park to get DH and come back to DCA. DH asked why we hadn’t got much done over here. I told him we had only been in this park for a couple hours. The first thing we do when we get to the parks with DH is head to Bugs land. Chip and Dale are in the meet and great area. We pass them by since we already said hi to them this morning. DH decided we should see It’s Tough to be a Bug. I ask him if he thinks DS will be okay because this show is a bit intense. He says DS will be fine. I don’t think so, but I’m not calling the shots right now. I pull out our preferred seating tickets we got from Disney Travel and we sit down. I do request to DH that during the hornet scene that he pull DS’s back away from the back rest. He says no, but I think he’s just being a punk. DS was a trooper up until Hopper came out. When it was obvious that DS had enough, DH escorted him out. We met up with them less than 5 minutes later; the Hopper segment is the last part of the show. We commented to each other that the show seemed a bit more crisp and the 3-d had improved. I really felt like I could reach out and touch the little butterfly. Still in bugs land, we took the little one on a couple of rides. He’s a bit cranky. I think it’s because he had been up since 5:30 and gone full throttle all day with no nap. It’s now 6pm. We decide to take DS and DH back to the hotel and DD and I will come back and ride the big kid rides. On the way out, I grab a couple FPs for Tower of Terror. When we get to the hotel, I make a quick run to Mimi’s for some food to go for the boys staying behind. DS is asleep by the time I get back.

DD and I first get on HTH then make our way to GRR. She’s been jonesin to get on this ride all day. I opt out because it’s cold and I always get soaked on this ride. There is only a 5 minute wait. I look around the store while she’s on the ride. She takes a bit longer than expected. When she comes out, she’s wet, but not as bad as I thought she’d be. She told me they sent her around twice; she didn’t get off the ride between runs. We were going to get on Screamin but it was down for the rest of the night due to WOC. According to the CM that and the Sun Wheel stay down after 8pm. TSMM stays on for the entire night, even through WOC. I also found out a good tip with regards to WOC. Because we are preferred seating we don’t have to come back quite so early to get a good spot. It turns out there are far less people doing the dinning package than there are getting FP’s. Good to know.
We then make our way back to DL to get on Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain RR. We had picked up FPs for BTMM sometime during the day, I just can’t remember when. Oh yes, now I remember. We saw Santa today. We picked up passes on our way to see him.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Santascabintreats.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Santascabinraindeercollection.jpg

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http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/SantawithRenaeDrew.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Raindeer4.jpg

I like this tricycle
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Raindeer1.jpg

Pluto is outside of Santa's cabin
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/PlutowDrew.jpg

So while on BTMM, my cell phone falls out of my pocket, hits my foot, and falls out of the ride. We file a lost and found report and continue with our fun. Space Mountain is our last ride of the night. I put my day pack in the Velcro bag in front of me and rap the strap of the camera bag around my arm a couple times and hold on for dear life to the handle of the bag. I’m not losing my camera. I’m a bit non challont about the phone because it’s not a super phone and it’s insured. It did get found, by the way, and is on its way home now.

[mvf-m11c]

Great photos of your kids and pictures taken during Minnie and Friends character breakfast. You got to meet a lot of different characters around the resort and got to do a lot of rides the next day. Can't wait to hear about your experience with the WoC preferred dining.

I'm sorry to hear about your cell phone falling off BTMRR. I had a similar situations with BTMRR. But at least the camera was found and being shipped back to you. When I rode BTMRR with my friends a few years ago, one of my friends was videotaping with their camera and when we went through one of the turns, he dropped his camera and fell out of the car. He did went to lost and found and got his camera the next day. I told him to wear the strap on the wrist but he didn't want to.

[kaoden39]

I am thrilled to hear your phone got found. Is that Santa a woman by any chance? The face looks really feminine to me. I love the pictures, and your DH sounds a lot like mine and it drives me freaking nuts. Even for it being major busy you guys did well.

[Goofy_Mom]

Great photos of your kids and pictures taken during Minnie and Friends character breakfast. You got to meet a lot of different characters around the resort and got to do a lot of rides the next day. Can't wait to hear about your experience with the WoC preferred dining.

I'm sorry to hear about your cell phone falling off BTMRR. I had a similar situations with BTMRR. But at least the camera was found and being shipped back to you. When I rode BTMRR with my friends a few years ago, one of my friends was videotaping with their camera and when we went through one of the turns, he dropped his camera and fell out of the car. He did went to lost and found and got his camera the next day. I told him to wear the strap on the wrist but he didn't want to.

I am thrilled to hear your phone got found. Is that Santa a woman by any chance? The face looks really feminine to me. I love the pictures, and your DH sounds a lot like mine and it drives me freaking nuts. Even for it being major busy you guys did well.

My phone arrived in the mail today.:cool1: It came home in the same condition it was in when it jumpped out of my pocket. My DH is a good guy, just a bit of a grouch at times and a control freak.

[kaoden39]

My phone arrived in the mail today.:cool1: It came home in the same condition it was in when it jumpped out of my pocket. My DH is a good guy, just a bit of a grouch at times and a control freak.

Oh Scotty is a great guy too. It;s just that he doesn't have that Disney gene, I mean he is fine for a day or two, but I am the one that loves the place. This last trip I really felt that I wasted a lot of money buying my mom a ticket because she didn't go to the park for over half the days we were there. One of the days she went just to go to the World Of Disney store in DTD. I think that may have colored how I felt about the whole trip.

[Markie Mouse]

Loving it. Every time I read your TR I get more excited for my trip. You have beautiful kids and your DD seems a lot like mine, Always ready for a photograph. Sorry to hear your DH had such an un-magical trip with the cold and ankle problem. I am so blessed I was able to convert my wife into a Disney freak like me. You do a lot for your family too like my wife. Last trip while I was lugging all the gear to our room she walked all the way down to McDonalds and surprised me with food. I have a bad back(fractured my spin playing HS Football) and have to save it for the park so now she volunteered herself as the go getter. I am the organizer, videographer, and treasurer. Can't wait to hear more!

[Goofy_Mom]

Loving it. Every time I read your TR I get more excited for my trip. You have beautiful kids and your DD seems a lot like mine, Always ready for a photograph. Sorry to hear your DH had such an un-magical trip with the cold and ankle problem. I am so blessed I was able to convert my wife into a Disney freak like me. You do a lot for your family too like my wife. Last trip while I was lugging all the gear to our room she walked all the way down to McDonalds and surprised me with food. I have a bad back(fractured my spin playing HS Football) and have to save it for the park so now she volunteered herself as the go getter. I am the organizer, videographer, and treasurer. Can't wait to hear more!

I'm glad you're liking my report. I already want to go back.

[Goofy_Mom]

Oh Scotty is a great guy too. It;s just that he doesn't have that Disney gene, I mean he is fine for a day or two, but I am the one that loves the place. This last trip I really felt that I wasted a lot of money buying my mom a ticket because she didn't go to the park for over half the days we were there. One of the days she went just to go to the World Of Disney store in DTD. I think that may have colored how I felt about the whole trip.

Okay, next time we should go with our own kids and leave the hubbys at home.

[Goofy_Mom]

Let’s try this again. I tried to do this earlier today, but it was so picture heavy it froze. So this time, we’ll cut in in half and see how it goes.

It’s Thanksgiving Day. The original plan of the day was DS was going to hand with DH, DD and I was going to hit the parks and ride all the big kid rides. However, after seeing how much fun DS was having it just wouldn’t have been right. Besides, DD and I were doing just fine doing the big kid rides at night. DH stayed behind, this time with a swollen ankle. Today is magic morning the park opens at 7am; we got there at 7:30. We saw Mickey with a very small line. It was so cute. DS was wearing his monkey and just before I let DS give Mickey a hug, I wrapped the “tail” around the monkey so DS wouldn’t trip. Mickey unwrapped the tail and proceeded to walk my son in circles. After a few seconds you couldn’t tell who was walking who. I thought I was taking video, but it seems I left my brain elsewhere. I switched the dial to video but pressed the wrong button. I did this all day.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/MickeywRenaeDrew2.jpg

On today’s must do list is IASW. DS see’s Dumbo on the way. It has a 10 minute. Peter pan is already over an hour as is Alice. So after Dumbo we find our way to IASW, also a 10 minute wait. DS is a bit hesitant but ultimately loves the ride. I took 41 pictures, here are some of my favorites.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASW39.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASW32.jpg

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http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASW25.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASW14.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/IASW8.jpg

We also got to see the clockenspeil 15 minutes before Toontown opened. Still my brain isn’t functioning properly. DS really liked Toontown. We spent over an hour and a half playing in there. DD rode Gadget’s Go Coaster four times. Here are some pictures of our adventures.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewTTtree.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewTTcar2.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RenaeDrewinjail.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RenaeDrewfountain.jpg

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http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Goofyshouse.jpg

Ariel and Tiana were in the meet and greet area. I think this is the only time I’ve only seen two princesses in the area.

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http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/TianawRenaeDrew.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/ArielwRenaeDrew2.jpg

It’s getting close to lunch. We have arrangements to eat at Café Orleans. We are a bit early so we look around NOS for a while and take some more pictures. I also cave and finally get the bubble gun.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/NOS4.jpg

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http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/RenaeDrewNOSstairs.jpg

Lunch is awesome. I ordered the Pomme Friets and the Chicken sandwich. DD ordered the mac and cheese. She didn’t like it. The initial taste was good, but there was an unusual aftertaste.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/PommeFrits.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Macandcheese.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Chickensandwich.jpg

We'll try and complete this report tomorrow.

[mvf-m11c]

I'm sorry to hear about your DH having a swollen ankle that day during MM. All of your pictures are very nice and I really like the Mickey picture with your DD and DS.

I want to ask you about PP and Alice, the hour long wait for both rides, was it that long during the morning or afternoon? That is crazy for both rides to be that long in the morning after MM.

[Goofy_Mom]

I'm sorry to hear about your DH having a swollen ankle that day during MM. All of your pictures are very nice and I really like the Mickey picture with your DD and DS.

I want to ask you about PP and Alice, the hour long wait for both rides, was it that long during the morning or afternoon? That is crazy for both rides to be that long in the morning after MM.

Yup, one hour for Alice and over an hour for Peter Pan. I really like those rides and checked the lines every time we passed by Fantasyland and every once in a while I bust out my itouch to check mousewait times.

I hoping that I can choose when the next trip takes place. It seems DH likes to choose the same dates as everyone else. I really like October, but it seems that it's been getting busier due to the popularity of the Halloween party. I'm hearing the week after November is the best time to go. I would like to try May.

[mvf-m11c]

Yup, one hour for Alice and over an hour for Peter Pan. I really like those rides and checked the lines every time we passed by Fantasyland and every once in a while I bust out my itouch to check mousewait times.

I hoping that I can choose when the next trip takes place. It seems DH likes to choose the same dates as everyone else. I really like October, but it seems that it's been getting busier due to the popularity of the Halloween party. I'm hearing the week after November is the best time to go. I would like to try May.

When you do MM, I would do those rides first thing in the morning instead of later during the day since those two rides are very popular.

The week after November is less crowded since DL is taking down the Halloween decorations and putting up the Holiday decorations, but you don't get to experience the Holiday season until the 2nd week of November. Remember, May is going to have the Little Mermaid ride and Star Tours 2 coming out that month and it will be really busy for both of those rides. Any new ride that comes out which means a lot of SoCal people will only be there for those attractions.

[skiingfast]

In addition to what Bret said that first week of November can have Space, HM and Small World down. Major bummers for some people.

I like May though, it's a risk that those rides will open while or just before you are there. But attraction openings can always have delays.

[kaoden39]

I love the pictures from New Orleans Square. That is my favorite part of the park.

[Goofy_Mom]

When you do MM, I would do those rides first thing in the morning instead of later during the day since those two rides are very popular.

The week after November is less crowded since DL is taking down the Halloween decorations and putting up the Holiday decorations, but you don't get to experience the Holiday season until the 2nd week of November. Remember, May is going to have the Little Mermaid ride and Star Tours 2 coming out that month and it will be really busy for both of those rides. Any new ride that comes out which means a lot of SoCal people will only be there for those attractions.

I don't know that we will be able to go next year. If things don't get better it doesn't look favorable. However, we are defenatley going in 2012 for Cars land.

I really need to proof read before I submit my posts. I meant to say the week after Thanksgiving.

In addition to what Bret said that first week of November can have Space, HM and Small World down. Major bummers for some people.

I like May though, it's a risk that those rides will open while or just before you are there. But attraction openings can always have delays.

With everyone in line for the new rides, Alice and Peter Pan will have less of a wait (hopfuly) Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't HM open with NBC overlay from late September to the end of December?

I love the pictures from New Orleans Square. That is my favorite part of the park.

I love NOS, I could have stayed for hours looking at decor and listening to the music. Not really my kids' cup of tea, though. They need to run around and be kids.

[mvf-m11c]

I don't know that we will be able to go next year. If things don't get better it doesn't look favorable. However, we are defenatley going in 2012 for Cars land.

I really need to proof read before I submit my posts. I meant to say the week after Thanksgiving.

It will be great in 2012 to see Cars Land and the construction at DCA finally over.

I would say that after Thanksgiving week it should be really slow and be a good time to go to DL during the Holiday season. I was considering doing a trip to DL the week after Thanksgiving week but since I have my WDW trip just around a week, I decided to try it in November and see how it feels to be at DL in a different month.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't HM open with NBC overlay from late September to the end of December?

You are right Goofy_Mom, HMH opens with the Holiday overlay mid to late September and it ends after the first weekend of January.

[kaoden39]

NOS is more of an adult thing for sure. Thankfully my kids are teenagers and off on their own for the most part and DH and I can just do what we want.

[Goofy_Mom]

NOS is more of an adult thing for sure. Thankfully my kids are teenagers and off on their own for the most part and DH and I can just do what we want.

I know someday my kids will be teens, and sooner than I think. I really liked taking the park at DS's speed. It's super selfish to think of, but I would really like to go the parks all by myself one day. I'ld feel so bad about leaving my little ones behind that it would probably never happen.

[kaoden39]

I know someday my kids will be teens, and sooner than I think. I really liked taking the park at DS's speed. It's super selfish to think of, but I would really like to go the parks all by myself one day. I'ld feel so bad about leaving my little ones behind that it would probably never happen.

You know my DH tells me all the time to go by myself and I feel so guilty whenever I plan it.

[Goofy_Mom]

I haven't forgoten about fininshing my report. It's been a little crazy here lately. Both my kids' birthdays and christmas are within a 30 day span. Hang tight and I will finish.

[kaoden39]

I haven't forgoten about fininshing my report. It's been a little crazy here lately. Both my kids' birthdays and christmas are within a 30 day span. Hang tight and I will finish.

You have to love real life.

[Goofy_Mom]

Hello again. I bet you thought I forgot I needed to finish my report. As you can see, that is not the case. Life gets in the way of fun stuff, I have to be a responsible adult and take care of my kids, house, and husband. Now that I have a few minutes to myself, I can finish Thanksgiving Day. The last time we met, we had just finished lunch at Café Orleans.

After lunch we went to Tom Sawyer Island. In all my years of going to Disneyland, I have never been to this much fun island. We were there for at least 2 hours. Tons of caves to explore and interactive treasure gathering stations to explore. Both kids had a great time.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Drewwtresure2.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/DrewwTreasure.jpg

We saw Laughing Stock today. Normally, I really enjoy this show. When the characters recite their lines it sounds more like they are talking to each other rather than repeating themselves. This time it really sounded like lines. Sheriff Clem Clodhopper, Sally Mae, and the Major did a Christmas themed show. It was a story of Scrooge, Santa, and the 12 days of Christmas. They pulled four people out of the audience. I can’t remember the first “person’s” character, but there was a Santa (old guy in an electric cart), Scrooge (some guy trying to be funny), and Tiny Tim (a really tall guy who’s name was actually Tim). Santa’s line was “Ho Ho Ho”, and Scrooges line was “Bah, humbug”. Sally Mae is telling the story. When “she” pulled out the guy for Srcooge and told him his line, he instead pointed to Sally and said “Ho, Ho, HO”. The crowd in unison said “Hey” in a very “that’s not cool” tone. Sally Mae says, “Well that worked out well for you, didn’t it”. Scrooge turned beat red and behaived for the remainder of the story.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/ClemwRenae.jpg

Now my brain is getting foggy. We went to Tomrrowland for some reason and saw Push, the talking trash can. Another time when I thought I was taking video when I actually didn’t. Push did a little song and dance for me when he “saw” my birthday button.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Robottrashcan2.jpg

I got the kids a pretzel and a sprite to snack on. DS spilled some over his shirt. I ran into Star Traders for a dry shirt for him (a Nightmare Before Christmas one), he really likes it. Just after we finished our snack, Buzz Lightyear comes by.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/BuzzwRenaeDrew2.jpg

We ran into Mary Poppins and Bert

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/MaryPoppinswRenaeDrew3.jpg

Then we headed back to the hotel to drop of DS with DH so DD and I could go on the “big kid” rides. On the way out we stopped off at the Silhouette Studio. I got them in one “picture”, we got the mirror image for free. So I have two framed silhouettes of my little ones.
So after I left DS with DH and got them some food, we rode some rides and watched Fantasmic. DD and I shared a bowl of clam chowder from the French Market and some hot cocoa. DD insisted on a front railing spot. I don’t like this spot because the railing gets in the way of taking good pictures and you get misted. I think we did another ride before heading back to the hotel but for the life of me I can’t remember what it was.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/ArielF2.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/Fboat.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/JaneF.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/PixarF.jpg

[kaoden39]

How fun. I really enjoyed that trip report. I always thought that Tom Sawyers Island is a parents best friend. It is a great place to take our kids to run off their excess energy.

[Goofy_Mom]

How fun. I really enjoyed that trip report. I always thought that Tom Sawyers Island is a parents best friend. It is a great place to take our kids to run off their excess energy.

I still have one more day to go. Our last day we spent intirely in DCA.

[kaoden39]

I still have one more day to go. Our last day we spent intirely in DCA.

Oh good. I love DCA!

[TheColtonsMom]

Those are some of the best pics of Tom Sawyers Island I have seen. We haven't been there since the "pirates lair" additions.
my DS6 LOVED your pics

[Goofy_Mom]

Those are some of the best pics of Tom Sawyers Island I have seen. We haven't been there since the "pirates lair" additions.
my DS6 LOVED your pics

Thank you sooo much, I'm glad he enjoyed them:thumbsup2

[mvf-m11c]

Very nice pics of your son with the treasure at TSI. Also very nice pics of the Disney CM and characters. Very good TR and I enjoyed reading and seeing your pics on your thread. :rotfl2:

This is one of my favorite pictures out of all your photos during your TR. I can't believe that Jane is back on the Mark Twain Riverboat for F!. She is my favorite Disney character. Ever since Tiana has been on the boat for F!, I thought I would never to see Jane back on the boat during F!. Thx for showing this picture. I'm hoping that I will be able to see her when I go to DL next month.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/GoofyMom77/Disneyland%202010/JaneF.jpg

[Goofy_Mom]

Very nice pics of your son with the treasure at TSI. Also very nice pics of the Disney CM and characters. Very good TR and I enjoyed reading and seeing your pics on your thread. :rotfl2:

This is one of my favorite pictures out of all your photos during your TR. I can't believe that Jane is back on the Mark Twain Riverboat for F!. She is my favorite Disney character. Ever since Tiana has been on the boat for F!, I thought I would never to see Jane back on the boat during F!. Thx for showing this picture. I'm hoping that I will be able to see her when I go to DL next month.

thanks Bret. I know it's not a great picture, the railing was really giving me issues and I was cold and shaking the camera. I really wish they'ld bring her back around the Treehouse for autographs. I really like her.

[mvf-m11c]

thanks Bret. I know it's not a great picture, the railing was really giving me issues and I was cold and shaking the camera. I really wish they'ld bring her back around the Treehouse for autographs. I really like her.

I would say the samething that I would like to see Jane at the Treehouse.

[Goofy_Mom]

I still have one more day to report, I haven't forgotten. I will have it up before the month is over.

[Funball]

Great Tr , thanks for sharing