My DD's 5th B-day/So much for 24 hours at DLR-PTR/TR *Pg.5*(my first TR included)

[Markie Mouse]

Let me start by saying I think it is so cool to find other Disneyland/Disney fanatics here on these boards. I am 25, married with 2 children. I currently have 2 jobs, one being a Sony rep on the weekends and the other being a recording engineer in Scottsdale AZ. My obsession with Disney began in my mothers womb as my parents took a trip to Disneyworld while she was pregnant. Then we returned to DLR every year until my parents divorce(not meant to be heavy) when I was 12. For years I wanted to return but never could. 9 years later after being married for 3 years with a kid of our own we decided to go before my DD turned 3. From then the obsession was rekindled. We went on a short trip in March this year and it was not magical due to crowds, humidity and heat. My wife and I decided another trip this year would help get that bad experience out of our heads. I have never been to DLR during the holidays and it made sense(Sherry-E helped a little too).

Cast
Me-Mark
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10023.jpg

DW-Manda
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00748.jpg

DD3-Bella
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00567.jpg

DS11months-Zeke
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01396.jpg

DSis-Cedes
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01459.jpg

From 12/08 to 12/13

As a Sony rep I get some perks, one recent one is being sent an SLT a55 DSLR camera. I will be taking it along with my Samsung P&S camera and my Flip Ultra HD so I will have plenty of stored memories. I am new to this so any tips or requests are welcome. Hope I can add a perspective to these boards as Im not as seasoned as some of you DIS-vets but this should be fun.:woohoo:

[Markie Mouse]

I forgot, here are some pics from my march trip while I wait for December 8th to come by.

Bella waking up on the way to the park
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10021.jpg

My favorite way to start the day.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10028.jpg

She loves modeling
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10060.jpg

My twin brother
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10070.jpg

Modeling again
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10136.jpg

Playing like daddy
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10197.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10243.jpg

Her B-day gift
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10267.jpg

Waiting for the princesses
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10258.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10259.jpg

Getting a kiss from Snow White
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10272.jpg

You know where Im at
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMAG0051.jpg

My favorite part
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10282.jpg

Baby Zeke had to stay in AZ last time so this will be his first visit but the love for Disney has already begun
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10427.jpg

[Sherry E]

Woo hoo! I'm glad I helped a little in encouraging this trip!!!:cool1: I try to wield my influence around the board and inspire DLR holiday trips where I can!!:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl:

What a cute family you have!! Love the dimples on the model-in-the-making!!

You all will absolutely love being at DLR for the holiday season! Plus, it's been quite chilly lately, so, to me, it feels more Christmasy. It's fun to bundle up and get comfy with cocoa and all that. You may or may not encounter some crowds but I think you'll be free from humidity. The good thing is that even if you run into crowds, you will have enough days in the parks to kind of spread everything out. Also, while the holiday season is really popular, there are many people who will still be at work and school and not out on vacation yet, so that will be an advantage. I think the fact that you're arriving on a mid-weekday will be helpful.

When you went to DLR in March, I wonder if you got caught in the Spring Break crowds?

[stich626]

Subbing! cannot wait to hear more!

[Markie Mouse]

Woo hoo! I'm glad I helped a little in encouraging this trip!!!:cool1: I try to wield my influence around the board and inspire DLR holiday trips where I can!!:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl:

What a cute family you have!! Love the dimples on the model-in-the-making!!

You all will absolutely love being at DLR for the holiday season! Plus, it's been quite chilly lately, so, to me, it feels more Christmasy. It's fun to bundle up and get comfy with cocoa and all that. You may or may not encounter some crowds but I think you'll be free from humidity. The good thing is that even if you run into crowds, you will have enough days in the parks to kind of spread everything out. Also, while the holiday season is really popular, there are many people who will still be at work and school and not out on vacation yet, so that will be an advantage. I think the fact that you're arriving on a mid-weekday will be helpful.

When you went to DLR in March, I wonder if you got caught in the Spring Break crowds?

Yes, it was definitely spring break. I will never go again at that time. I can only hope the crowds are more manageable or at least they act more polite during the holiday season. I got tired of people jumping over my kids stoller while she was in it mind you or people moving our stroller yards from where I left it.

[deejdigsdis]

Yay, you started your PTR/TR. :) I had to smile when you mentioned Sherry having a little something to do with the decision to go during this time. She's such an advocate for DLR during the holidays! :santa::santa::santa:

I hope you have a great time with your family. Looking forward to reading along!

[Goofy_Mom]

Have fun, the timing looks great for low crowds. Can't wait to here how it goes.

[Markie Mouse]

In fact this was the crowd at opening. 8am(you can't see it but there was already a huge line behind me for the Train)
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10030.jpg

I had a whole 1GB card full of pictures but the card broke there were more pics of the crowd levels. Indy was 70 mins and they even close off part of the Jungle cruise queue for Indy. Nemo was a 4 hour wait, and Haunted Mansion and POC broke down throughout the day so the lines were horrific when they were temporarily operational. We ended leaving early around 10 one night and 7 the other only staying till midnight for one of the nights. They were midweek as well, Wed., Thurs., Friday but it was bad. The weather sucked too. The night we arrived on tues it was 70º and breezy but the day at the park were 80º and windy, 79º and %60 humidity, and finally 86º with 60% humidity. Yuck. I know this is not Disney's fault but I also lost my belt and had recently dropped from 380lbs to 350lbs so pants size dropped (Im now almost under 300) so holding my pants up all day was added stress. Im hoping this trip will give me the magic I remember from my childhood.

[Goofy_Mom]

In fact this was the crowd at opening. 8am(you can't see it but there was already a huge line behind me for the Train)
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/SDC10030.jpg

I had a whole 1GB card full of pictures but the card broke there were more pics of the crowd levels. Indy was 70 mins and they even close off part of the Jungle cruise queue for Indy. Nemo was a 4 hour wait, and Haunted Mansion and POC broke down throughout the day so the lines were horrific when they were temporarily operational. We ended leaving early around 10 one night and 7 the other only staying till midnight for one of the nights. They were midweek as well, Wed., Thurs., Friday but it was bad. The weather sucked too. The night we arrived on tues it was 70º and breezy but the day at the park were 80º and windy, 79º and %60 humidity, and finally 86º with 60% humidity. Yuck. I know this is not Disney's fault but I also lost my belt and had recently dropped from 380lbs to 350lbs so pants size dropped (Im now almost under 300) so holding my pants up all day was added stress. Im hoping this trip will give me the magic I remember from my childhood.

Maybe buy some pants that fit? I relieze it may be a hassel to keep buying pants, especially when they'll be to big soon, but I would suggest a local salvation army. A couple pairs of jeans should only set you back $10 and when they get to big, you can donate them back.

[Markie Mouse]

Maybe buy some pants that fit? I relieze it may be a hassel to keep buying pants, especially when they'll be to big soon, but I would suggest a local salvation army. A couple pairs of jeans should only set you back $10 and when they get to big, you can donate them back.

I was referring to all of why my March trip was not as magical. But yeah, sounds like a good idea for now at least until Im down to my old size(36). I have a belt but had forgotten it during our rush out the door to leave. I will never ever do that again.

[becstr]

Congratulations on your weight loss!

Can't wait to hear about your Christmas time trip!

[Markie Mouse]

Congratulations on your weight loss!

Can't wait to hear about your Christmas time trip!

Thank you. I will do my best to be as detailed as possible. Its been hard but I gained about 150 lbs after getting married so I felt enough was enough. The trip wont help seeing as I will be eating at Cafe Orleans, RBJK, the corn dog cart, and many other various CS places around the parks but I figure we will walk off some of it so it wont be too bad.

[Markie Mouse]

Here are some pics to I have taken so far.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01742.jpg

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http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00981.jpg

Sorry I can't for my trip to get here. Any feedback would be appreciated as I want to get the best pics possible on our trip!

[kaoden39]

I am along for the ride. Your trip should be so much fun with the little ones. All the Christmas fun every where will make it a special trip.

[Markie Mouse]

Well, its off to bed. Then I leave in the AM. I'd like to thank all the people who have helped out along the way, whether it be feedback or advice. I'll try to get as much detail from the trip so this will be an enjoyable TR. I decided to leave my computer and just have the photoshop put my pics on CD if necessary, so no updates till I return.

[Markie Mouse]

Woke up around 5amAZ-MT to leave and was very grateful we had packed the car the night before because I was tired. Only took me less than 6 hours to get there. Once at the hotel I realized we left way too early. Check in was not till 2pm and it was 10:30am PST!!! We sat in the lobby for about an hour, then the babies got antsy and started getting into trouble. One was wandering where she shouldn't and the other was screaming at the top of his lungs. Funny thing is I think it worked to our advantage because the employee at castle inn came up to us and handed me 2 keys around noon and told me to be sneaky because he didn't want the other guests to see we were checking in early(I think he was sick of my son screaming.)

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01926.jpg

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After unpacking we all napped. After the naps we all got ready and headed to downtown disney. The crowds we lovely, no pushing, no frustration. We walked around World of Disney for a bit then we all got hungry. We all agreed on RBJKExpress. It was good but not what I was hoping for. The BBQ Po-Boy was tasty but the sauce was too sticky and sweet, my wife had the catfish and fries and I wish I would have ordered that, my sister ordered the chicken tenders and they were too dry, and my DD had the popcorn chicken. We were son hungry from the drive I forgot to take pics in time.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01939.jpgThis was after dinner.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01972.jpgWe got an order of beignets to go and I have to say, the Mickey beignets have nothing on the RBJK beignets. SO GOOD!!!

We then retired to the room and got ready fo the day ahead of us.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01960.jpg

The next morning I woke up at 5:30am PST like a kid at christmas waking everybody yelling "we're going to Disneyland". So after dragging all the late bloomers to the park we started to see a huge line build up behind us, and I started to stress about crowds.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01974.jpg

But luckily for us, the crowds were the best I have ever experienced at the park.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01979.jpgWe experienced a little ruddiness to start the day. We walked in to the park and saw a big eared fellow come out of his locker and some 40 somethings jumped in front of us to get some pics, then as we were waiting behind the cutters, the family that go to open the park decide to cut everyone behind us and stand right next to us. I pushed my wife and kids forward and cut off the second group of cutters. I hear the snoody lady say "you know there's a line" even though she does not realize the 20 something people behind me she just cut. Anyways, I try not to let it bug me and we head to Fantasyland.

Seeing this made me happy again though.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01988.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01990.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01993.jpgI never saw it like this again.

We headed straight to the matterhorn but to our dismay it was down for maintenance so we headed to IASWH.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC01996.jpg

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After the IASWH we headed back to Matterhorn and hooray it was working. My DD loved the ride and it made my day to hear her scream and talk about it all day.

We then headed over to Alice and it was closed for maintenance as well:confused3 So it was teacups!
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02038.jpg

We spent all of MM in Fantasyland, then after we had enough it was bathroom break time then lunch time. As the girls did their thing, I saw these decorations and had to take pics.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02044.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02049.jpg

I made a promise to my DD after lunch she could go on the Carousel one more time.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02052.jpg

As I waited I saw a little buzzing friend and had to get a pic.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02055.jpg

Then I realized how pretty the flowers were werehttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02057.jpg

Me and my sister came upon this.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02058.jpg

Teenagers love taking pictures. LOL
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02060.jpg

Just taking it all in
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02066.jpg

My DD had to get back on Casey JR
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02067.jpg

[Markie Mouse]

We were finally done with FantasyLand and we headed to BTMRR. I snapped a few shots while my DW and DSis got on the ride.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02073.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02099.jpg

Then, my DW made me get on Splash Mountain. Boy do I regret it. Not only was my hate for drops conformed but I got soaked. After drying a bit we got on HMH. I am a huge HM fanatic and I loved the holiday overlay. I was not expecting to like it being such a huge fan of the original ride but I was indeed surprised.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02119.jpg

Not too many more pics for the day, we ended up winging it for the rest of the night. Here are some pics from throughout the first night at Disneyland.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02126.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02129.jpgThis thing still amazes me

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02133.jpgShe loved her little angel pen

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02136.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02141.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02146.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02165.jpg"one more time daddy"

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02167.jpgOne last time before closing

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02169.jpgYep!

We decided to get Mr. Clause out of the way and glad we did.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02176.jpg

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http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02201.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02215.jpgDidn't realize how much time we had left so we hit up Pirates for the 3rd time.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02230.jpgTook this while walking, please forgive.

We all got to the Hotel after stopping by McDonalds, sore and tired but very happy. This was our first day at the park and it was magical. Unfortunately it was our only truly magical day while there. More to come.

[kaoden39]

I love your pictures. I am sorry it wasn't all so magical.

[Markie Mouse]

I love your pictures. I am sorry it wasn't all so magical.

Thank you, Friday and Saturday were horrid. But we made the best of it and still had a blast and already planning a trip in the offseason as well as maybe AP's for us and 1 more. Thursday was soo fun I need to have another day like that.

[kaoden39]

Thank you, Friday and Saturday were horrid. But we made the best of it and still had a blast and already planning a trip in the offseason as well as maybe AP's for us and 1 more. Thursday was soo fun I need to have another day like that.

We were there the week that WoC opened and it was a mess. I feel your pain. Off season is good. I have am AP, I mainly got it for the discounts and I have to tell you that it really made a difference on the food and souvenirs. I look forward to hearing the rest.

[deejdigsdis]

You're back! I'm really enjoying your report and pics so far. I especially like your carousel picture at night. I'm curious to hear about the horrid-ness of Fri and Sat.

[Markie Mouse]

We woke up a little late from being tired and sore. We left to the park around 8am so we got there just after they opened the gates. The lines were already building up and the stress level went up as soon as we entered the park. Old ladies getting grumpy at Photopass people for taking too long with castle pics, PP was already a 30 min wait, and Matterhorn had a line wrapped around the mountain.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02281.jpg

My DW takes my DD on Dumbo while I feed my DS and as Im sitting there we see CM's making a queue for Mr Toads. I couldn't believe it, it was supposed to be closed for refurbishment. I call to my wife as soon as saw it and stood in line while they rode the flying elephant.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02287.jpg

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http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02315.jpg

A few more shots from the Queuehttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02318.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02321.jpg

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Some random shots after the ridehttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02325.jpg
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[Markie Mouse]

After 1 1/2 hrs in fantasyland we decided to head over DCA and head straight to TSMM and get the bad news I received all day, its down for repairs. My DW tried to get me on California Screamin' but I chicken my way out of it and she has to go at it alone. We then see Jessie and Woody come out for photos.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02402.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02431.jpg

After we get done, we sat at the pier , relaxed and people watched

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02407.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02421.jpg

Then I snapped this
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02441.jpg

We then walk around a bit after my DW gets off screamin. We see grizzly is only a 5 min wait and decide to save it for later. Then proceed to Bugsland and come upon These characters.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02442.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02450.jpg

As we enter I see Bugsland is decorated, not much but something.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02455.jpg

We get on the Heimlich Chew Chew train or as my DD calls it "The Watermelon Ride"http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02457.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02458.jpg

Not shots while on the ride because I didn't want watermelon scent juice on my camera. We then stay around bugsland and chill out. We walk over to HToT and we don't see a line so I hold my breath and walk to the queue only to see its a 50 in wait inside so we agree to come by around WOC so the line will be smaller. We then walk to see about Aladin and there is already a line at 11 for the first show at 12:30ish. So we agree its not worth it as we have already seen a couple times so we walk to Monsters Inc and get in line.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02463.jpg

After Monster we all decide lunch sounded good. My DW see's the turkey leg cart and has to get one. Me, my DSis, and my DD all choose Corn Dogs so we all sat down at award Wieners and have lunch.
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After lunch my DW heads to the bathroom to change my DS and she runs back and tells my Max is taking pics, which is awesome because my DD recently became a huge fan of the Goofy movie.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02484.jpg

Then stitch creeps up and we have to get some shots. I wish a I would have been recording video because this character experience had to be the cutest. He grabs my DD's pen and realizes its Angel, Stitch's GF in the show and he starts to jump in excitement and hugs & licks the pen. My DD break down laughing it was awesome. http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02491.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02493.jpgAfter the pic he hugged my DD then licked her too. We get our FP's for soarin and WOW its only noon and the FP return is not till 6:40PM. So we head over to Grizzly.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02497.jpg

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After grizzly I decide its to the hotel we go as I am not walking around DLR with wet socks. This is day 3 part 1, I will do more later today.

[kaoden39]

I love the pictures again. The random shots are always fun for me. And I am totally agreeing with the no wet socks. To me there is nothing worse than wet socks or shoes. I can hardly wait for more.

[TheColtonsMom]

Well I am hooked just subscribed can't wait to hear what happens next

[Markie Mouse]

After changing we headed back to Disneyland and headed back to Toontown
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02518.jpg

My DW and DD got on gadgets go coaster. My DD loved it and while I waited for her to get out of the 40 min wait I snapped a few shots

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02520.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02523.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02524.jpg

We walked around Toontown for awhile and then pushed our way out of there towards BTMRR. We happened to be walking into parade crowds and it was horrid. It took us 30 min to cross from toontown all the way to adventureland. People stopping in the walkways, people jumping out of lines over our stroller with 2 babies in it. It was a madhouse. We finally got to BTMRR and we at least were able to walk on twice. We then walked on pirates and I feel real bad about it. My DS had fallen asleep and we did not realize it till we got in the boat. The initial drop woke him up and he has been waking up since in the middle of sleep screaming as if he was falling. We got off and headed towards Tomorrowland to use our FP we had gotten for SpaceMountain and saw Buzz had a 15min wait so we jumped on that. After that we headed to SpaceMountain. I got on the front with my DW then I got back on with my DSis and got the back. I prefer the back. We realized it was getting close to 6:40 and headed to DCA to get on Soarin. I started to feel ill from our dinner we had at the hotel. Never will I eat at that Subway near Castle Inn. It got everyone sick. And I mean everyone. We all had to make bathroom stops before Soarin. I walk in and see no line so I walk in, hand the CM my FP, but I have to stop at the yellow line for 5 min. She takes my ticket and tells me to go right. As soon as I turn I see a long line ahead. It would not have been bad but 10 min of standing in line while your stomach is being turned insideout is not fun. I get off and go to get my wife and have to make a u-turn back to the restroom. Afterwards I head back onto Soarin with my DW. We both loved it. I like the smell of pine during some scenes. We head over to TSMM because mousewait said it was open now. I had to take a pic of this though.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02525.jpg

We were planning on getting on TSMM then head over to HToT but did not anticipate a 55 min wait for TSMM during WOC.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02534.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02535.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02536.jpg

We get off and its 9:30pm and we head to HToT then I get a punch to the gut from Subway again. We then resume our journey around 9:48 and we start making our way through the crowd only to get there at 9:59pm and they had already closed the queue for HToT.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02539.jpg

I felt relieved I didn't have to get on but also felt bad because my DW really wanted to get on it.

We head over to Disneyland and my DSis decides to retire early and head back to the hotel with my DS. So its just me, my DW, and my DD. We head over to IASWH and see the 30 min line and got excited for the photo op but realize my camera was in the stroller my DSis took with her. The time just walking together with my DW and DD was magical. It was the only time I felt the Christmas magic while at the park. We get off around 11:20 and check mousewait and HMH has a 20 min wait. We rush over there with my DD and hop in line. Again, very magical just waiting in line with family and staring at decorations. After we get off, its 12:01 and we walk around the park looking at decorations. My DD starts whining she is tired, so I suck it up and carry her all the way out of the park, back hurting and all. I wish Disney looked more like it did at 10pm-midnight throughout the day. Its really beautiful being able to move around, not worrying about people with little to no awareness bumping, tripping, or shoving you. While me and my DW walk back, we both came to the conclusion we have to go during offseason with just us 2 as we never had a honeymoon. But we say during offseason would be better. This was our 3rd night and while there were magical moments they day was stressful and crowded. No more DLR during christmas, spring break, or summer. Offseason only! If only I knew how bad the next day would be, I would have enjoyed this day a little more.

[Markie Mouse]

Heres a clip of what was to come at 11am.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02669.jpg

[kaoden39]

Oh my do I know those kind of crowds. What a mess it was. I was really sick on a trip in 2007, and the que for Roger Rabbit was so long and hot for me that day. I to this day cannot bring myself to go back on RR and I am not sure I will ever be able to.

[Markie Mouse]

Day 3 we decide to sleep in a bit. We head to DLR around 8:30am and go straight to Nemo. Its only a 25 min wait which is short for what it would be through out the day. I got a few good shots in line.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02550.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02551.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02554.jpg

We get off and head towards NOS to get on HMH but the line is ridiculous. Its stretched all the way back to the Train Station. We say forget it then head to Pirates but the line is just as bad as HMH. We begin stressing out and start arguing so we all agree on a time out and we head on the Mark Twain. Boy Was that a good idea. It was so relaxing and peaceful.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02569.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02598.jpg

I took over 100 pics on the ride but figure no one wants to see those. If you do maybe I'll add them later.

Rested and relaxed we head towards Pirates even though the line stretches outside the queue its moving fast. After we get of it about 11:45 and we feel hungry. Time for Monte Cristos. Im told 15 min wait and got excited. I put my name down and wait.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02640.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02641.jpg

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http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02644.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02646.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02650.jpg

After 45 min of waiting with screaming, crying, hungry kids we get a table.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02651.jpg

We ordered the Monte Cristos, I get Ham, turkey, cheese and my DW gets cheese only. My DD ordered the chicken pasta, and we get an order of pomme frites. It looked, smelled, and tasted excellent but instantly it did not feel right. I get a grumbly feeling in my stomach after only 2 and so does my wife. We had already ordered the Mickey beignets so we had to get a to go box because we all felt ill after lunch.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02656.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02661.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02664.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02667.jpg

We then head over to TomorrowLand to get on Space Mountain but to our dismay, guess what? Its down for repairs. So we head to see about Buzz. Its a 55 min wait. So after that we head to AdventureLand to get on Indy, guess what? Its down! So me and DW take DD up Tarzan's tree. I get up first and see the jaguar. I hear it breathing and something felt wrong. My DW and DD get up and look at it. My DW takes my DD up to read it, and.... RAWWWWRRRR!!!! Right on my ear, my DW screams as does my DD. I wanted to punch whoever was behind it because it was not funny at all. We come back down and head back over to see about Space and it is still down. We then figure might as well get some autographs. So it's off to Pixie Hollow.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02670.jpgWe walked into this along the way.

[Markie Mouse]

I give my DW my camera and she gets in line. Me, my DS and my DSis wait outside the queue and realize the CM putting up the rope for the Parade. There are good seat right in front of me so decide hop the rope and hold some seats.

Here are the pics my DW took.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02673.jpg


http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02679.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02682.jpg

My DD was so excited about meeting Terrence.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02687.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02692.jpgShe wasn't so excited about Tinkerbell as she has met her about 4 times already.

I keep stressing about my DW making it in time because people were literally stepping on my jacket, my wifes backpack and once my hand to get a spot. Finally they announce the start and she comes walking towards me. I get my camera back and its almost dead. I manage to get a few good shots.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02694.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02713.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02716.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02722.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02723.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02726.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02734.jpg

We then head over to Space Mountain and its open finally. We get on with our FP's I got earlier(which I forgot to mention, we also got FP's for BTMRR) me and my DW get on and talk about coming in Feb for our DD 4th B-day which will most likely happen as Thurs was incredible and we want to recapture that magic. I get off and get back on with my DSis. My DW had taken my DD to Princess Fantasy Fair while we go on BTMRR. I get off and head to switch with my DW in line for the Princesses. It takes me 15 min just to get there. As I get in line with my kids my DW is at the front of the line so we experience it together with the kids. My DS flirted with every princess it was so cute. After my DW and I head back to BTMRR it took us about 15 min again due to parade traffic. My poor DSis was waiting for a half hour. After they get off, we head to hotel to rest up and change. And rest up we did. We went back around 4 and did not come back till 8pm. It was perfect as soon as we walked back in the park, it began to snow. We get a good spot and my DD eyes light up. It brought tears to my eyes because her honest joy was what we came here for.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02738.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02744.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02746.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02745.jpg

We then head back to see what we can do and I check mousewait. Everything was at a 50+min wait. With only 3 hours left in the park we decide to get shopping done. I get a couple cool shots as we head over to my DD favorite store. The princess doll store.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02754.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02766.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02749.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02752.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02768.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02772.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02773.jpg

I then take the kids back while my DW and DSis shop as the souvenir shop is no place for a stroller on a busy saturday night.

These next 2 pics describe how we all felt.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02777.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02785.jpg

Well that does it. All in all it was a good trip but only due to how awesome Thursday was. I really wish there was more Christmas decorations in certain places because we all agreed, other than IASWH and HMH nothing else felt special or unique to DLR at Xmas. I am still glad I decided to go though as I got a lot of memories from it but now I really need to see if off-season makes a big difference with crowds. Thanks for all who have read. Don't know if I'll ever do one of these again as I really didn't like looking at my trip through a lens. Maybe next time it will be filled with pics form a P&S camera only.

[kaoden39]

I think that you went at an extremely busy time. Wow. I have really enjoyed your trip report. Thank you for sharing it.

[Markie Mouse]

I think that you went at an extremely busy time. Wow. I have really enjoyed your trip report. Thank you for sharing it.

Thanks for reading it. I guess not too many people found my TR entertaining so thank you to all who did.

[kaoden39]

Thanks for reading it. I guess not too many people found my TR entertaining so thank you to all who did.

So many times people lurk and don't comment. Sometimes because they are too shy to. Obviously I am not shy. Look at my post count.:rotfl:

[deejdigsdis]

Thanks for doing a report! I really enjoyed it. You got some fantastic pictures. That one of your little girl (I think before the parade started) was wonderful. That's too bad about the crowds. I really hope you can go for your daughter's birthday and feel better about your experience.

[Markie Mouse]

Well, going back for my DD B-Day didn't work out but we have decided to go in Sept. as my DD starts Pre-school and my Bro ends it with senior year. Me and my wife have begun the panning and saving. The dates are Sept.12th-18th and we may have some extra cast members join us along the way. I won't have the same camera, as I had to give it back. The good news is I'll have a decent P&S. To begin I guess I could talk about the new cast. My little brother (by age not by size) was born at the smallest size of any of us kids and earned the nickname peanut. He is anything but that now at 6' 295lbs. He is going only as a part of a deal to get his grades up. On top of that, my cousin has also been inspired by what I'm doing for my brother and extended the same offer to his brothers. So they might be joining us on the trip for a couple days. Then a couple days later my dad is asked by my daughter if he could come because she really wants his GF to come. LOL. And last but not least my mom tells me her vacation is coming to her in may so she will most likely use it and come with us. So this could end up being one of the best trips ever. I will keep it updated as new details come along. And hopefully you guys can help me along the way.

To start, has anyone used Dreams Unlimited? I was planning on using Getawaytoday.com as they have good prices but not the cheapest. The thing I really like about Getawaytoday is they include tax+fees so the price you get is out the door price. Does anyone have any good tips for planning trips and saving money, or even has good insight on which travel company has the best deals? Thanks!

[kaoden39]

We used Dreams Unlimited in 2007. They were great. I recommend them highly. Our trip was beautifully planned.

[Markie Mouse]

Well it looks as though we may have to postpone or seriously alter our trip as we received the news we are expecting. Gotta love life!:thumbsup2

[kaoden39]

Well it looks as though we may have to postpone or seriously alter our trip as we received the news we are expecting. Gotta love life!:thumbsup2

How wonderful to be having a baby!! Congratulations!!

[deejdigsdis]

Well it looks as though we may have to postpone or seriously alter our trip as we received the news we are expecting. Gotta love life!:thumbsup2

Congratulations!

[TheColtonsMom]

Well it looks as though we may have to postpone or seriously alter our trip as we received the news we are expecting. Gotta love life!:thumbsup2

Whoo Hoo for the new addition! Another future Disney fan in the making... You can still go to Disney pregnant (I did) just have to stick to things like the Jungle Cruise & IASW... but it is a wonderful time for a laid back trip that includes more shows and more sit down meals... stuff you miss when you are frantic to get all the rides in!

[Markie Mouse]

Well, after much debating, I finally convinced my wife to go back for the 29th leap day. We will be there Feb. 27th through March 3rd. Since I posted the last PTR so much has changed. Like my weight. I struggled with weight and got back up to 320 but now I'm down to 280, I lost my job at the recording studio but now produce at home and work at Best Buy, my aunt died from complications from a tumor removal, and we had our 3rd child.....D'Artagnan James Franco. This will be a emotional trip for me because my aunt and I always talked about going back so I will thinking about her a lot on this trip. I will be buying a new camera and will be testing it out on this trip. I returned the Sony A55 I used for the last trip and will be buying a Canon S100. More compact and still great quality.

The Cast
Me(trust me you don't need a photo)

My DW Amanda
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC02744.jpg

My DD Isabella
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0078.jpg

My DS Zeke
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0044.jpg

My DS D'Artagnan
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0073.jpg

and last my DB Antonio
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC03474.jpg

This trip should be fun, and I am already expecting a huge showing for the 24 hour day but me and my bro figure the crowds will die after 2-3am and we will have a blast till they close. The plan is to get there the 27th, go out and eat, walk around DTD, maybe catch a movie, get some sleep, hit rope drop the 28th, stay till closing, sleep in till around 9 am the morning of the 29th stay till about 3-4pm go back take a huge nap, go back about 8-9 pm till the kiddos are puckered out my wife or bro will go back with them and we will party the night away till 6am. Rest the 1st, go back to hit everything we missed on Friday the 2nd, and leave the 3rd. Can you tell I've planned this out. Well it should be fun, but are there any tips to making my TR more interesting?? Its only my second one and I'd like to make it more memorable not only for you guys but for myself to look back on.

[kaoden39]

Hi there!!


Oh boy I am sure you are going to see crowds! But who knows? I am thinking that it can't stay busy all 24 hours.


Congratulations on your son. He is a doll!!

[Markie Mouse]

Hi there!!


Oh boy I am sure you are going to see crowds! But who knows? I am thinking that it can't stay busy all 24 hours.


Congratulations on your son. He is a doll!!

Thank you, he has been the easiest baby so far. Would you know how to change the title of this thread? You know others put update or added???

[kaoden39]

Thank you, he has been the easiest baby so far. Would you know how to change the title of this thread? You know others put update or added???


My third child was my easiest by far. His dr told me that it was my reward. I believe it.


I think that if you go in and edit the first post you can change it there.

[Markie Mouse]

Bought the tickets today, we will be staying at the Tropicana Inn, we thought about the Castle Inn again but after much convincing and trip adviser research we chose the Tropicana. Its the cheapest of the good neighbor hotels right across the way, it was only 250 more than castle on getawaytoday, and the rooms looked far cleaner. Now I'm' off to buy my camera today. :cool1:

[Markie Mouse]

Had a long day. I ended up getting the canon s100 and wow for a P&S camera it is amazing. You can expect a ton of pictures on the TR. The video shoots at 1080/24p which is film/cinema specs so I might even have amazing videos. We have our driving arrangements set, our hotel is booked, our itinerary is going to be more laid back this time so now its just a waiting game. I can't believe I'll be there in only a couple weeks. I also bought a backpack/leash for my DS Zeke, he is a runner. I always thought they were so cruel but if you knew my son, you would know why that changed. Well, I hope next time I post we will be at the Land!

[Markie Mouse]

Here are some pre trip test pics, but I actually returned this camera and bought the Sony Nex 5, its a compact system camera. I couldn't deal with not having a high F stop for the shallow D.O.F.(Bokeh) portraits. It gives me DSLR quality in a compact frame. But here's what I got with the Canon.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0070.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0009.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0064.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0059.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0020.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0065.jpg

Can't wait for the new Camera now, can't believe it's only 2 weeks and couple days now.

[Markie Mouse]

So excited, I came home to find our package from getawaytoday and we got some cool wristbands, a kids backpack, and our paper work. Just made it harder to wait.

[Goofy_Mom]

Hey, I really like your TR. I love DL at christmas time, just not a fan of the crowds. We'll be there the first or second week of december this year in hopes of lighter crowds.

have fun at the leap day thing:thumbsup2 Also, I'm not sure what kind of deal you got for tropicana, but for future reference, I recomend the name your price thing on priceline. I have yet to spend over $80 per night for 3 1/2 star hotels (usually 69-75/night). I tend to get the ones a little further down on Harbor, but the shuttle service and larger rooms more than makes up for it for me. Can't wait to hear about your new trip:goodvibes

[Markie Mouse]

Hey, I really like your TR. I love DL at christmas time, just not a fan of the crowds. We'll be there the first or second week of december this year in hopes of lighter crowds.

have fun at the leap day thing:thumbsup2 Also, I'm not sure what kind of deal you got for tropicana, but for future reference, I recomend the name your price thing on priceline. I have yet to spend over $80 per night for 3 1/2 star hotels (usually 69-75/night). I tend to get the ones a little further down on Harbor, but the shuttle service and larger rooms more than makes up for it for me. Can't wait to hear about your new trip:goodvibes

Thank you, I payed 120/night and will end up paying another $45 in parking fees but it is located right across the street and we need that for the 24 hour day. It was worth it for us since we only go once a year, if that. I agree about the Christmas time but we do not think we will ever go back, the con's outweighed the pro's for us.

[heatherleigh]

I just got all caught up on your past/future TR! I've enjoyed everything.

I am particularly interested in the very first trip you eluded to in the beginning (horrible spring break crowds). Do you remember if it was the end of March?

We are going next month, and I am very nervous about this (I was aware, prior to seeing your post). Were you still able to go on rides, despite the overwhelming crowds? I am afraid we will only get on a few FL rides during MM, then it will be out of control. On two of the weekdays, I will be alone in the parks with my two girls who are 3 & 5 yrs old. The 4 hour wait for Nemo (or one of the rides you mentioned), especially gave me a scare.:scared1:

[Happy 2 B Me]

A Lurkie here--- I enjoyed reading about the prior trip and am looking forward to reading and following this TR. You seem like such a fun and enjoyable person to be around I am trying to figure out how you can adopt me. Not sure it is workable I am WAY to old, it was worth a try though. Ok know that I am following along :).

Patty

[Markie Mouse]

I just got all caught up on your past/future TR! I've enjoyed everything.

I am particularly interested in the very first trip you eluded to in the beginning (horrible spring break crowds). Do you remember if it was the end of March?

We are going next month, and I am very nervous about this (I was aware, prior to seeing your post). Were you still able to go on rides, despite the overwhelming crowds? I am afraid we will only get on a few FL rides during MM, then it will be out of control. On two of the weekdays, I will be alone in the parks with my two girls who are 3 & 5 yrs old. The 4 hour wait for Nemo (or one of the rides you mentioned), especially gave me a scare.:scared1:

It was March 15-19 and it was all weekdays,the crowds were high but barely manageable(besides Nemo-4hr wait and Indy 75/min+ wait+constant breakdowns) I would expect Star Tours:TAC to be a 60+ min wait as well as The Little Mermaid ride. I would suggest for your MM to hit up Peter Pan asap as that ride during the day always has a 20-30min+ wait. I also think the trip is what you make it, if you expect high crowds, prepare mentally and emotionally. When the crowds and lines get crazy find something "different" to do. Meaning stay away from rides for bit and take in the sights. Check out "The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" or ride the Mark Twain if it is up. Check out the Blue Sky Cellar in DCA, take a time out basically. It has saved us so many times on our trips from just blowing up at all the rude inconsiderate people at the park and just made us focus on not letting them ruin our trip. Hope you have fun. Are You doing a TR yourself?

[Markie Mouse]

A Lurkie here--- I enjoyed reading about the prior trip and am looking forward to reading and following this TR. You seem like such a fun and enjoyable person to be around I am trying to figure out how you can adopt me. Not sure it is workable I am WAY to old, it was worth a try though. Ok know that I am following along :).

Patty

HAHA, awesome! Thank you. I try to be fun, life's way too short and I'm glad I realized that at 26.

[Markie Mouse]

I got my new camera today. It works beautifully. I'll be posting test pics as soon as I get some. The video is unbelievable for a camera and it not being a camcorder. Only one more week and I'll be enjoying SoCal and being a part of Disney history. Which brings up something, should I even go to it? I payed for an extra rest day but I was thinking the day after might not be so crowed but then I got to thinking(which I do way too much of) How would they get the park up and running in only 2-3 hours the day after leap day? Would they just shut down rides throughout the day to do maintenance on leap day or do it throughout the day after leap day. Then I heard people will be lining up the night before and they should reach capacity early morning. YIKES :scared1: Any help or suggestions would be nice. Go leap day or the day after leap day?

[Markie Mouse]

Well after messing with my camera I got some ok test pics. We decided to just go on leap day at 6am till we can't go any longer, go back to the hotel and nap till around 8-10pm let the kids have fun till they pass out and me and the wife(or brother) will stay till 6am. Can't miss a once in a lifetime(or maybe every 4 years) moment. Im so excited but stressed because of work and school. I have to jam 2 weeks of homework into one week before we leave. But here are the Test pics from the NEX 5N.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00157.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00140.jpg

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00125.jpg

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[Markie Mouse]

Only one more day now and we haven't cleaned the car. I have a lot to do, pack, get camera cases ready, finish my homework a week early, and work my closing shift at work.:sad2: We decided to add an extra day at the gates because we think it will be ridiculous for most of the day on the 29th so if we miss a lot that day; the day after will be for shows, taking in sights, and taking advantage of photopass. I will be making a flickr account so I can maybe do live updates but I'm still not comfortable with my iPhone yet, so I don't know how easy to "do", it will be. Any tips from iPhone users would be helpful. I bought a new app for phone my BTW, its the Disneyland Magic Guide so I might do a mini review of that. If you can't tell by how late this post is, I am super excited to finally be going back to DLR. :cool1:

[kaoden39]

Have fun!!

[Markie Mouse]

Gonna be working on the trip report very slowly due to my backed up homework. Overall the trip was the best Disneyland trip we have had so far even though we missed Tangled, The Matterhorn, Aladdin, Frozen Lemonades, and the Dole Whip. The only negatives this trip was the fact I was sick the whole trip, and Leap Day, though some may had fun, was a bad experience for me and my Family. I will get to that later. I took over 1300 photos but only 150 made it to my TR. See you soon!

[kaoden39]

Welcome back! I look forward to hearing all about it!!

[Markie Mouse]

Day 1-Road Trip and stroll down DTD.

We took off around 9:45am in hopes we would get there after 4pm check-in so we wouldn't be charged the extra $9 for pre-registration parking. It took a min to get everyone loaded and make sure we didn't forget important items. After a quick breakfast of Naked fruit drinks and Beef Jerky, we got out of freeway traffic and hit the highway. My wife snapped these along the way.

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Because we were driving such gas hog we had to stop in Blythe to refill. After 6 hours of driving we made it to Anaheim but were greeted with a heavy fog and on and off rain. But as we pulled in, it started to sprinkle non stop. I got there a bit early and was willing to pay the pre-registration parking and as the clerk started to talk to me about the pre and post parking fee's, I cut him off a bit(but very nicely and professionally) and told him I did a bit of research and was aware and for some reason, either me being cool with it or for not throwing a fit, he waived both for me. We got our keys and unloaded our things in the room. I took a couple pics before we made a mess of it.

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I walked down to the gates to pick up my tickets held for me from getawaytoday.com and decided to upgrade to 4 day rather than 3. It only cost me $78 total for all 4 of us.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00430.jpgTook this after we picked up the tickets.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00439.jpgMy little ones had to model for me.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00442.jpgHe had to kneel like daddy for this pic.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00451.jpgMe and my brother talked about how we wished we had gotten 5 day tix because it looked dead this day.

As we were walking back I started to feel a little funny. My throat hurt and I was getting congestion in my chest. We all got ready and walked down to DTD and walked around the shops for a bit. We ate at RBJK express but didn't get food pics because it was too wet to pull out my $700 camera. It cleared up as we ate and as soon as we grabbed our beignets and walked back out it completely stopped.

We walked around this awesome place for awhile.http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00466.jpg
I wish I could put this in my househttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00498.jpg
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I love this sethttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00512.jpg
These things were so cool to stare at
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Some day I will own thishttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00530.jpg
Its all about the little detailshttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00540.jpg
Like thishttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00547.jpg

My last pic of the nighthttp://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00556.jpg

We headed back and began to get ready for the day ahead of us. I was so anxious I could hardly sleep, like a kid before Christmas.....well that or it was the chest cold I had just gotten. :sick:

[deejdigsdis]

Great start! Sorry to hear you were sick. That's nice you were able to upgrade your tickets, though. :thumbsup2

[kaoden39]

I am sorry that you got sick while you were there. I have been sick on a trip and it totally sucked. You're off to a great start, and I look forward to reading more.

[WDWJonasGirl]

I'm sorry to hear that you got sick while you were. Looking forward to reading some more

[Markie Mouse]

Memories of Day one

We ate at RBJK express and it was good, I had the catfish Po Boy, my wife got the Gumbo, the kids got popcorn chicken, and my brother got the shrimp Po Boy. While inside, they had roped off the soda fountain as they had just installed new marble and upon setting the new soda machine down the cracked the marble and it so sharp it cut the managers hand and they had roped it off so none of the customers would do the same. We also met a nice family who from Oregon, so they were used to the rain and instead of buying a pancho, they made one from one of their gift bags. It was funny. The food was good but the Beignets were better. We then decided to walk around DTD and check out the shops. I had to stop by Marcelenes candy shop(I think that is what its called). Too many un-healthy snacks so I pulled my self out of there. But if I ever want to try an oreo brownie, huge cookies, or big cupcakes, I know where to go.

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I couldn't wait for this ride the next day.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/IMG_0286.jpg

[Markie Mouse]

Day 2- A whole day at Disneyland

The day began with me in pain. I felt like someone had been sitting on my chest all night. Every breath I took made my chest hurt more. I gave in and let my wife buy me medicine. It worked well enough to loosen up the congestion a little. We all got ready around 8am and walked to the gates. It was so nice that our room was so close to the gates, we got there in well under 10min.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00561.jpg

We waited till around 8:45am when they finally let us line up at the gates. I talked to the CM about her job and she said it's awesome except around the Holidays when they make them work longer shifts. She advised my wife try to get a job at another part of the park because it gets boring at the gates. I told her our plans to move out in a year or so and she said it was a good place to work. My kids were getting antsy but thankfully not screaming like the few kids behind us.
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After the countdown, we safely made our way to FantasyLand(and not running over people like other guests) and got on Peter Pan. Sorry, no pics. Was so excited I never un-holstered my camera. I loved the look on my kids face on these dark rides, no thrill ride can bring more joy to me than the faces on my kids as we flew over London, or got eaten by monstro.
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After our time in Fantasyland, we sped to Star Tours 2.0 and boy, the wait was worth it. I had big smile the whole ride, like a little kid. The nerd in me was screaming of how awesome it was and not one part of me missed the old ride. My daughter absolutely loved it, and it was her favorite ride besides Soarin'.

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We then proceeded to NO Square. We hopped on Pirates and had about no wait. My daughter started freaking out because she remembered the drop and my son started to as well. I grabbed him and comforted him, but as the drop came he dug his nails in my skin but laughed after both drops. He loved the ride and had a big smile on his face the whole time. He even now walks around singing the song, although its just the yo ho part. After we got off, we jumped in line for HM, when my wife realized it was feeding time for little one. She told us to go on and she would get on later. While in line a got a few pics.

http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/Rightoffpirates.jpg

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I really wish this was up and running.
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This is the first half of the day, I will finish later. Too tired.

[kaoden39]

It is too bad that you were sick. Your kids are so cute. I am not sure I could work the gate. I have heard people get really rude with the gate CMs. I love the caterpillar at the end.

[Markie Mouse]

Day 2 part 2

We got on HM and it gets cramped so I put away my camera and grabbed my kids. We stood by what I thought was the side but was actually the door into stretching room so we walked in first. My son was definitely freaked out, in fact I have never seen his scared face before, until now. He kept saying dad dad dad and I just laughed it off. As we walked in we stood to the side again to avoid being stampeded by the rude guests we were with as they were already running and shoving to get in. Well luck would have it, our wall was the door out of the stretching room. So we walked safely to our "doom" buggy and me and my DS road together. He was right in my hip the whole time. After riding pirates, he was expecting a drop every time on every ride. So when the buggies turn backwards and go down into the cemetery, he flipped out and yelled for his mom, but it was cute because afterwards he tried to play it off and faje laughed at me. It also seemed we got every popping ghost which I thought was cool because it gave him the full experience. After the ride we met with my wife and we head to get FP for Indie and we saw it was a 10 min wait, so we were gonna just get on. Well as we found a stroller spot and my wife took the baby out of his carrier pouch we walked back and it was shut down for maintenance. So we walked to Jungle Cruise and the kids started asking for food. Lunch time. So I bought some snack t hold them until we could walk back to the hotel. It was only around 11 am, which is too ealry to go back for me. I bought some fruit for my kids and I got a couple pickles(so good) for me and the wife. Then I got a whiff of Bengal Barbecue. I got the beef skewer and my bro got the bacon wrapped asparagus. Sorry for no pics, it was a last min food and we were thrown off by the ride closure so early in the day. The kids were content and the baby was asleep in the stroller, so Jungle Cruise was not an option as it would have required us to bother him. So we walk over to BTMRR and used the rider swap as it was only a 15 min wait.

While my brother and wife got on BTMRR first, me and the kiddos waited in front of Ranco restaurant and people watched. I messed around with the camera settings and took a few pics.

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See what I mean?
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content
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She ate half then, the rest of the outside skin only and left the insides for her mom.
http://i1122.photobucket.com/albums/l540/Markie_Mouse/DSC00753.jpg
My Favorite Benches
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Green only mode
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Blue only mode
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We then went back to the hotel around 1pm and ate some sandwiches at our room. We walked back around 2:30 and headed for Princess Fantasy Faire and I regret doing it this day. We were figuring on such a low crowd day we take advantage and do the small things like the princess meet and innoventions(which I still have not done). But what ended up happening is the princess faire took about an hour and 45 min. I think on slower days each guest gets more time with the princesses. But my daughter got her request out of the way.

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After waiting we told my daughter no more princesses, she laughed and said yeah right. We then spent the next 3 hours and 15 min to ride Pirates, BTMRR, Space Mountain, Star Tours, Buzz Lightyear, and then grabbed some churros and head back to see if indie was up. It was and it was only a 15(more like 5) so they said no need for fastpasses or stroller swaps. As we walked to get the stroller parked for and find a spot for the 3rd wheel to sit my wife looked at me and said "I forgot the bottles and formula" . Another 20 min lost waiting for something that could have been avoided but I made the best of it and got some cool video and pics.

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After she got back, she told me and my brother to get on while she fed the baby. It was about 7pm so we only had a few rides left. We got in line thinking it would take 15 min but we walked in, watched the intro video in the projector room and the CM moved us along.

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Me and my brother got into this ride and were joking with the family next to us. They let there little girl drive and we kept asking if she had her drivers license, then we told her gas, then clutch, gas then clutch. Then right before the car stalls on the ride, I said "remember watch the ......(car stalls and it goes quiet)....Clutch" Everyone laughed and me and my brother had a good time. Then me and my wife jumped on and I told her about our fun, so to change it up I played the scared rider. I jumped when the snake pops at you and I said, of course I get the snake seat. I ducked down at the dart scene, and over-reacted to the sequences and jerks. Made her laugh. After indie, we still had time. So we got on Jungle Cruise. It pretty cool at night but not my favorite time to ride it. The CM's on this ride are awesome. I have only gotten one lame ride of all my visits. My favorite joke was the part where the headhunters aim there spears at you and the CM imitates the noises, well no one laughed(but me) and he said "those were spears going over your heads.....just like my jokes" they get people with good comedic timing. After we got off we still had time so we walked over to Pirates again and walked on. I love this ride if you can't tell already. And after Pirates, we still had about 10 min so we scooted pretty quickly to IASW to end the night. It was at the tail end of Memories so it was a walk on again. As we were walking down to the boats my brother had the baby in his hands and couldn't see the line splitting pole and walked very quickly right into one. It bruised him pretty good. After the ride we got one last shot of the outside of the ride. And Fantasyland was dead quiet.

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We then walked to McDonald's and got some late dinner. I got a hot chocolate hoping it was warm the tight congestion in my chest, but no luck. We walked back to our room and I medicated and we all passed out early hoping to be up in time to see the 6am opening. Well, my illness had other plans.......