We're Doing WHAT For My Birthday??? - Final Thoughts [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

mnmrmustard

03-27-2011, 03:56 PM

I folded my PTR into my TR since it was such a fast turn-around from one to the other :-D

From the PTR:

Hey All! This is the "Quickfire Challenge" version of a PTR. My wonderful, wonderful wife has surprised me with a birthday trip to WDW ...in 11 days!!!

Cast of Characters:

Me (Mike), about to turn 42 - IT Director for an Oregon Community College :surfweb: and confirmed Disney Nut :thumbsup2

DW (Roxy), 36 - Office Manager for a precision screw machine shop and tolerator of my addiction :littleangel:

and ...NO KIDS! That's right, for the first time we're going by ourselves! :cool1: It is the first time other than a handful of low key weekend excursions that we've done something as a couple in almost 7 years.

The Dates:

April 6th - April 13th

The Location:

Pop Century Resort

The Plan:

Mad scramble to firm up an itinerary and see of there is a chance at any reservations.

What We Have:

- Plane tickets
- Reses at Pop Century Resort
- 5 Day Standard tickets (no water parks or park hopping this time around)
- Dining Plan
- 2 Day multi-park pass w/transportation to Universal Studios

What We Don't Have (but hope that we can make happen):

- Lunch or Dinner at Le Cellier at EPCOT
- Dinner at Tony's Town Square on my B-Day at MK
- Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party on my B-Day at MK
- Either 50s Prime Time Cafe or Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at DHS

Everything else we're completely winging. The goal is low stress and as much fun as we can manage. And if we don't get any of the stuff listed above its no biggie.

Itinerary:

Tuesday, April 5th - Travel
- Work in the morning
- Drive to Portland (4hrs)
- Check in at Ramada Portland Airport
- Try to sleep

Wednesday, April 6th - Travel
- 3:45am wake-up - out the door by 4:15am
- Shuttle to airport - check in for 5:30am flight
- Arrive in PDX at 7:59am - Depart for MCO at 8:59am
- Arrive at MCO at 4:18pm - ME to Pop Century
- Quick service dinner at Pop
- If we have the energy, got to DTD and walk around
- Sleep!

Thursday, April 7th - Universal Studios - Islands of Adventure
- Breakfast at Pop
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Counter service lunch
- More Islands of Adventure

Friday, April 8th - EPCOT
- Breakfast at Pop
- Start with Spaceship Earth (I've never been in it)
- Roll around World Showcase (I completely missed it last time)
- Lunch reses for Le Cellier
- More World Showcase
- Counter service Dinner
- Walk through Future World
- Fireworks
- EMH - 9pm-Midnight

Saturday, April 9th - Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Breakfast at Pop
- EMH - 8-9am
- Hit RnRC/ToT
- Check out the shows
- Sci-Fi Dine-In Lunch
- More shows
- Dinner at 50s Prime Time
- Stay as late as we feel like

Sunday, April 10th - Universal Studios
- Breakfast at Pop
- Ride a bunch of rides
- Counter service lunch
- Ride more rides or head back over to Islands of Adventure
- Dinner TBD
- Mardi Gras celebration

Monday, April 11th (Birthday) - Magic Kingdom
- Breakfast at Pop
- Fantasyland classic rides
- Tomorrowland
- Lunch at Tony's Town Square
- Adventureland/New Orleans Square
- Dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern
- Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party
- Stay as late as we feel like

Tuesday, April 12th - Animal Kingdom
- Breakfast at Pop
- Lion King show
- Table Service lunch
- Focus on seeing more animal exhibits
- Dinner at Jiko

Wednesday, April 13th - Travel
- 3:30am wake-up - ME
- 7:10am flight - arrive in Phoenix at 9:06am
- 10:15am flight - arrive at PDX at 1:03pm
- Drive home

We've only been to WDW one other time and this is our first time staying on property. Any tips or fun B-Day related info is appreciated. Otherwise hang on while I start throwing stuff together! :woohoo::rotfl::yay::rotfl::woohoo:

TR TIME!

Quick Links:

BEFORE THE TRIP

Day 0 - Just Keep Swimming (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40793469&postcount=54)

TRAVEL DAY/DTD

Day 1 Part 1 - Have We Really Escaped??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800103&postcount=61)

Day 1 Part 2 - Heading Downtown (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800374&postcount=67)

Day 1 Part 3 - Walking and Shopping and Walking Some More! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800406&postcount=69)

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS/ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

Day 2 Part 1 - On to Universal's Islands (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40828999&postcount=79)

Day 2 Part 2 – Hogsmeade has a Waitlist (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40837296&postcount=85)

Day 2 Part 3 – My Drinking Tour of Hogwarts Continues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40837868&postcount=86)

Day 2 Part 4 – Front Row Seats (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40848250&postcount=94)

Day 2 Part 5 - Acrobatics and Dance – Wizard Style (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40849675&postcount=96)

Day 2 Part 6 - Looking for a Do-you-think-he-saurus (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40859278&postcount=102)

Day 2 Part 7 – Here There Be Raptors! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40859352&postcount=103)

Day 2 Part 8 – Toon in to a Marvel-ous Time (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40862083&postcount=109)

Day 2 Part 9 – Are we Doomed??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40862135&postcount=110)

EPCOT FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

Day 3 Part 1 - Roundabout to EPCOT (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40961928&postcount=117)

Day 3 Part 2 – Into Spaceship Earth! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40962846&postcount=119)

Day 3 Part 3 – Time Keeps Spinning in SE (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40962929&postcount=120)

Day 3 Part 4 – Topiary and Fairies Galore! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40964341&postcount=124)

Day 3 Part 5 – Pooh says there are Flowers and Butterflies Here (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40964455&postcount=126)

Day 3 Part 6 – Brits and Beauties (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40981364&postcount=141)

Day 3 Part 7 – We Take a Trek to the Eastern Continent (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40995298&postcount=151)

Day 3 Part 8 – A Tour through Spirited Beasts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40995314&postcount=152)

Day 3 Part 9 – The Brits Invade, the French find Balance, and the Japanese Drum! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41122265&postcount=160)

Day 3 Part 10 – America is Spirited, Italy is Tall, and Other Things are Small (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41123811&postcount=164)

Day 3 Part 11 – A German, Chinese, Norwegian, Mexican Smorgasbord of Adventure (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41137873&postcount=170)

Day 3 Part 12 – Loco Donald, Heavy Seas, and Lightning Strikes (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170151&postcount=183)

Day 3 Part 13 - Roxy Shops, I Much, and We Are Illuminated! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170241&postcount=184)

Day 3 Part 14 – Fireworks, Goodies, and Night Views of WS (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170737&postcount=185)

Day 3 Part 15 – A Fast Finish to a Long Day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41171413&postcount=186)

DISNEY'S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

Day 4 Part 1 - I'm Ready for My Close-Up! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41273204&postcount=198)

Day 4 Part 2 – Mermaids and Gangsters (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41275663&postcount=201)

Day 4 Part 3 – The Ride Ends and We Find Adventure on the Streets (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41275729&postcount=202)

Day 4 Part 4 – Sci-Fi Eats and Spectacular Feats! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281030&postcount=206)

Day 4 Part 5 – More Spectacular Stunts! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281076&postcount=207)

Day 4 Part 6 – The Stunt Spectacular Reaches its Crescendo! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281114&postcount=208)

Day 4 Part 7 - Characters get Cheeky and A Girl Takes a Bath (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297144&postcount=215)

Day 4 Part 8 – Brave Sailors are Attacked and We Tour the Warehouse (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297175&postcount=216)

Day 4 Part 9 – Our Backlot Tour Continues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297209&postcount=217)

Day 4 Part 10 – Catastrophe Canyon! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41322838&postcount=221)

Day 4 Part 11 – A good end to our day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41322965&postcount=222)

PHOTOPASS PICS FROM EPCOT AND DHS

EPCOT Day Photopass Pics (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41366689&postcount=227)

DHS Day Photopass Pics (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41366743&postcount=228)

UNIVERSAL ISLANDS AND STUDIOS

Day 5 Part 1 - All Around the Universe ...al (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41740893&postcount=238)

Day 5 Part 2 – Into the Depths of Hogwarts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41741259&postcount=239)

Day 5 Part 3 – Dumbledore and Serious Studies (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41754813&postcount=243)

Day 5 Part 4 – From the Classroom to the Skies! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41833224&postcount=249)

Day 5 Part 5 – Dragon Challenge AKA Hogwarts Part II (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41833508&postcount=250)

Day 5 Part 6 – Riding Dragons, Wizardly Shopping, and On to Seuss Landing (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41894914&postcount=261)

Day 5 Part 7 – A Trolley Ride thru a Sussian Wonderland (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41972029&postcount=262)

Day 5 Part 8 – Universal is Shrek-tastic! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41977886&postcount=267)

Day 5 Part 9 – From Jaws to Krustyland! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42071461&postcount=275)

Day 5 Part 10 –Kapers in Krustyland! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42071510&postcount=276)

Day 5 Part 11 – Buildings, Brothers, and Beetlejuice! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42108219&postcount=284)

Day 5 Part 12 – Beetlejuice and his Crew Rock Out! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42108443&postcount=287)

Day 5 Part 13 –Singing and Dancing and Beetlejuice Jams! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42120049&postcount=293)

Day 5 Part 14 –Beetlejuice Finale, a Walk in the Park, and Surprise Characters (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42137996&postcount=298)

Day 5 Part 15 – From Characters to Wakita (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42208587&postcount=302)

Day 5 Part 16 – A Bang, A Bunny Thief, A Mummy, and The Blues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42208724&postcount=303)

Day 5 Part 17 – Ladies and Gentlemen, The Blues Brothers! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42216784&postcount=308)

Day 5 Part 18 – A Dance, A Meal, and a Fright! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42234831&postcount=314)

Day 5 Part 19 – Monsters, Sci-Fi Props, and A Beautiful Sunset (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42234918&postcount=315)

Day 5 Part 20 – Pop Pics and the Day 5 Wrap-up (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42234937&postcount=316)

OT - Portland Pirate Festival (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42606597&postcount=351)

MAGIC KINGDOM BIRTHDAY

Day 6 Part 1 - A Flashback and My Birthday at MK Begins! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42319927&postcount=321)

Day 6 Part 2 – A Disney Welcome and a Walk Down Main Street (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42324817&postcount=324)

Day 6 Part 3 – Liberty and Adventure! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42338176&postcount=330)

Day 6 Part 4 – From Pirate Waters to a Jungle Journey! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42393862&postcount=337)

Day 6 Part 5 – Cruising, Strolling, and Riding the Rails (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42450598&postcount=345)

Day 6 Part 6 – Daisy, Sweetie, and My Fellow Americans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42749618&postcount=355)

Day 6 Part 7 – Haunted Mansion and Magic at the Castle (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42749832&postcount=356)

Day 6 Part 8 – Birthday Pasta and Mike Wazowski! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42788579&postcount=364)

Day 6 Part 9 – Rockin’ the People Mover and Parade Time! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42925620&postcount=370)

Day 6 Part 10 – The Dreamy Parade Continues! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42927006&postcount=373)

Day 6 Part 11 – The Parade of Dreams Finale! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42933660&postcount=377)

Day 6 Part 12 – Bears, Briars, and a Bountiful Feast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42964462&postcount=385)

Day 6 Part 13 – The sun goes down on the Magic Kingdom (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42990603&postcount=391)

ANIMAL KINGDOM

Day 7 Part 1 – On to AK for our Last Day!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43187718&postcount=396)

Day 7 Part 2 – Nemo’s Friends and a Good Dose of Hakuna Matata (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43241107&postcount=399)

Day 7 Part 3 – The Festival of the Lion King Continues! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43420375&postcount=402)

Day 7 Part 4 – Flying Monkeys …and No, It’s Not The Wizard of Oz (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43435922&postcount=404)

Day 7 Part 5 – Scar Brings on the Fire! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43436708&postcount=405)

Day 7 Part 6 – Flying Away with the Lion King (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43436814&postcount=406)

Day 7 Part 7 – We head into the Finale! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44038368&postcount=410)

Day 7 Part 8 – Meeting all those Camp Mickey Characters (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44038381&postcount=411)

Day 7 Part 9 – Along the Pangani Trail (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44038393&postcount=412)

Day 7 Part 10 – The trail gives way to a Wild Safari! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44038509&postcount=413)

Day 7 Part 11 – The Safari Continues! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048247&postcount=415)

Day 7 Part 12 – The Safari Ends and We Burrow Under the Big Tree (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048364&postcount=416)

Day 7 Part 13 – An Amazing Tree, a Dinoriffic Meal, Nemo, and Everest (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048433&postcount=417)

Day 7 Part 14 – Up to Everest! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048488&postcount=418)

Day 7 Part 15 – Strolling along the Maharajah Jungle Trek (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048532&postcount=419)

Day 7 Part 16 – Leaving Asia and saying goodbye to AK (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048575&postcount=420)

Day 7 Part 17 – Almost done with my night shoot at POP (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048669&postcount=421)

Day 7 Part 18 – Farewell to “The World” (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44048787&postcount=422)

FINAL THOUGHTS

Final Thoughts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44067059&postcount=427)

mnmrmustard

03-27-2011, 07:09 PM

Okay, I have Sci-Fi Dine-In, 50s Prime Time and Tony's Town Square successfully booked.

Now I just need a couple of mini-miracles for a table for two to open up on a Friday for Le Cellier (either lunch or dinner) and the Terrace Dessert Party on my B-Day

kaoden39

03-28-2011, 08:31 PM

Hi Mike!!

I'm in!!

Trentmom

03-28-2011, 08:52 PM

Hey!!!!!

11 days!!!!

This is going to be fun a read

:yay:

Trentmom

03-28-2011, 09:06 PM

Wow

what a cool wife you have

How are the kids with you guys going alone?

Sounds like it is going to be fun trip

Have you ever eaten at 50s Prime time Cafe before? Make sure you do not put your elbows on table, that is all I am saying :laughing:

Pop Century is awesome!!! Groovy!!!!

You are going to love being on property

Try and get like 50's, 60's or 70s.. They are closest to the food court, store and bus stop

pirate:

lovebuzzandwoody

03-28-2011, 09:53 PM

Hey Mike... I'm in too! :goodvibes

Roxy... well, rocks! :thumbsup2

Check out your detailed intinerary already! :worship:

And no kids?!?! That is fantastic! I am so happy for you both!

Make sure you get a birthday button. ;)

cherbear

03-29-2011, 10:53 AM

cherbear

03-29-2011, 10:54 AM

btw I hope you get into the dessert party on your bday!! I would love to see pics of that!!!!

mnmrmustard

03-29-2011, 11:03 AM

Hi Mike!!

I'm in!!

Hey Michele! Welcome to the quickest PTR ever! :rotfl:

Hey!!!!!

11 days!!!!

This is going to be fun a read

:yay:

Sharrrkkkyyyy! Glad to have you on board. Make sure your seat is in the full, upright position and all tray tables are stored - we're goin' for a ride!! :cool1:

Wow

what a cool wife you have

How are the kids with you guys going alone?

Sounds like it is going to be fun trip

Have you ever eaten at 50s Prime time Cafe before? Make sure you do not put your elbows on table, that is all I am saying :laughing:

Pop Century is awesome!!! Groovy!!!!

You are going to love being on property

Try and get like 50's, 60's or 70s.. They are closest to the food court, store and bus stop

pirate:

Yes, Roxy rock for sure, she's my angel :littleangel:

The kids were okay about it ...once we told them that we were modifying our Vegas anniversary trip into a family trip. They've done WDW but have never been to Vegas ;)

We have never been to 50s Prime Time, thanks for the heads-up on the elbows. I've heard it is a blast to eat there :banana:

Thanks much for the hint on where to stay at Pop, we're finalizing that right now. I think it was an extra $108 to get a preferred room at that end.

I'm very excited about being on property - whoohoo! :woohoo:

Hey Mike... I'm in too! :goodvibes

Roxy... well, rocks! :thumbsup2

Check out your detailed intinerary already! :worship:

And no kids?!?! That is fantastic! I am so happy for you both!

Make sure you get a birthday button. ;)

Hiya Nicole! Roxy rocks for sure. Yes, threw together the itinerary over the weekend, nothing too scheduled, but gives us a good framework to jump off from :thumbsup2

No kids, it will be interesting. I want to do rope drops and Roxy says she wants to be there for them (or for me more accurately). She says this will jump-start her workout schedule ;)

Yes, I'll be wearing my b-day button and this hat:

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/DisneyHat.jpg

mnmrmustard

03-29-2011, 11:14 AM

First off...Happy Birthday!!!! And secondly, Yay for Disney!!!

This should be an exciting adult only trip!

Just want to note, since you are on the dining plan...last I heard, Le Cellier is now 2 credits at dinnertime (4 pm or later) and still just 1 credit at lunchtime.

Hey Cheri! Welcome to the madness :cool1: Yes, exciting for sure. I'm trying to wrap my head around the fact that in exactly one week I'll be working my last half day then hopping in the car with Roxy to drive up to Portland :eek:

Thank you for the info on Le Cellier, we'll shoot for lunch but will take dinner if necessary. Good thing is we have 6 days worth of credits but will be spending 2 days at Universal so we can be a bit more flexible :thumbsup2

btw I hope you get into the dessert party on your bday!! I would love to see pics of that!!!!

Me too, we just keep calling and trying the website. Kinda like playing a slot machine - lol

ChattaAlley

03-29-2011, 11:23 AM

I like them kind of trips not much time to anticipate. I think it will be a fun new expierence for yall without the kids. Everyone needs some time alone. Have fun. Looking forward to your TR after.

mnmrmustard

03-29-2011, 11:40 AM

I like them kind of trips not much time to anticipate. I think it will be a fun new expierence for yall without the kids. Everyone needs some time alone. Have fun. Looking forward to your TR after.

Welcome aboard! Yes, it is kind of like a whirlwind, but in a good way. We haven't had a real trip by ourselves for years so it will be a great time to have some grown up fun while still acting like kids :laughing:

cherbear

03-29-2011, 02:21 PM

Hey Cheri! Welcome to the madness :cool1: Yes, exciting for sure. I'm trying to wrap my head around the fact that in exactly one week I'll be working my last half day then hopping in the car with Roxy to drive up to Portland :eek:

Thank you for the info on Le Cellier, we'll shoot for lunch but will take dinner if necessary. Good thing is we have 6 days worth of credits but will be spending 2 days at Universal so we can be a bit more flexible :thumbsup2

Me too, we just keep calling and trying the website. Kinda like playing a slot machine - lol

ah cool, that works out either way then! (you gotta be flexible and grab any ressie time that pops up for Le Cellier, so it's good you have the extra credits!)

If you want, I can look for you when I have time. I am the Le Cellier whisperer!! :rotfl: (i've managed to get reservations for not only myself for the last 3 trips, but I even managed to get some other people ressies at a couple months out, too ;) )

Marshay

03-29-2011, 03:33 PM

Can't wait to read this!! Your trip is like right around the corner!!:cool1:

lovebuzzandwoody

03-29-2011, 04:14 PM

Cheri IS the LeCellier whisperer! :thumbsup2

LOVE the birthday hat! :thumbsup2

Marshay

03-29-2011, 07:22 PM

also at 50s Prime Time DO NOT eat the vegetables!! :lmao::rotfl2:

Trentmom

03-29-2011, 09:10 PM

Hey Michele! Welcome to the quickest PTR ever! :rotfl:

Sharrrkkkyyyy! Glad to have you on board. Make sure your seat is in the full, upright position and all tray tables are stored - we're goin' for a ride!! :cool1:

Yes, Roxy rock for sure, she's my angel :littleangel:

The kids were okay about it ...once we told them that we were modifying our Vegas anniversary trip into a family trip. They've done WDW but have never been to Vegas ;)

We have never been to 50s Prime Time, thanks for the heads-up on the elbows. I've heard it is a blast to eat there :banana:

Thanks much for the hint on where to stay at Pop, we're finalizing that right now. I think it was an extra $108 to get a preferred room at that end.

I'm very excited about being on property - whoohoo! :woohoo:

Hiya Nicole! Roxy rocks for sure. Yes, threw together the itinerary over the weekend, nothing too scheduled, but gives us a good framework to jump off from :thumbsup2

No kids, it will be interesting. I want to do rope drops and Roxy says she wants to be there for them (or for me more accurately). She says this will jump-start her workout schedule ;)

Yes, I'll be wearing my b-day button and this hat:

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/DisneyHat.jpg

Yeah, didnt want to pay the extra money so just asked nicely at check in

Plus it is your birthday, so make they know that at check in, more likely to get the room you like :thumbsup2

oh cool....Never been to Vegas and hope to one day.:goodvibes

That hat is awesome :woohoo:
also at 50s Prime Time DO NOT eat the vegetables!! :lmao::rotfl2:

Love it :lmao:

kaoden39

03-29-2011, 09:40 PM

Hey Michele! Welcome to the quickest PTR ever! :rotfl:

Sharrrkkkyyyy! Glad to have you on board. Make sure your seat is in the full, upright position and all tray tables are stored - we're goin' for a ride!! :cool1:

Yes, Roxy rock for sure, she's my angel :littleangel:

The kids were okay about it ...once we told them that we were modifying our Vegas anniversary trip into a family trip. They've done WDW but have never been to Vegas ;)

We have never been to 50s Prime Time, thanks for the heads-up on the elbows. I've heard it is a blast to eat there :banana:

Thanks much for the hint on where to stay at Pop, we're finalizing that right now. I think it was an extra $108 to get a preferred room at that end.

I'm very excited about being on property - whoohoo! :woohoo:

Hiya Nicole! Roxy rocks for sure. Yes, threw together the itinerary over the weekend, nothing too scheduled, but gives us a good framework to jump off from :thumbsup2

No kids, it will be interesting. I want to do rope drops and Roxy says she wants to be there for them (or for me more accurately). She says this will jump-start her workout schedule ;)

Yes, I'll be wearing my b-day button and this hat:

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/DisneyHat.jpg

What a doll Roxy is!! And a quick trip report isn't as stressful for you!!

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 10:33 AM

ah cool, that works out either way then! (you gotta be flexible and grab any ressie time that pops up for Le Cellier, so it's good you have the extra credits!)

If you want, I can look for you when I have time. I am the Le Cellier whisperer!! :rotfl: (i've managed to get reservations for not only myself for the last 3 trips, but I even managed to get some other people ressies at a couple months out, too ;) )

You know Cheri, we're still trying on our end I'm not too proud to ask for help on it. Especially if you have some Disney mojo in getting them! pixiedust: We are looking for lunch or dinner on the 8th, time is completely flexible. I'll message you the info to put down if you can get it - thank you! :love:

Can't wait to read this!! Your trip is like right around the corner!!:cool1:

I know! In 7 days we will have already landed in Phoenix and would be boarding our flight to MCO!!!

Cheri IS the LeCellier whisperer! :thumbsup2

LOVE the birthday hat! :thumbsup2

I bow to her Le Cellier greatness! :yay:

And thank you on the had, I'm sure I'll make a proper spectacle of myself :rotfl:

also at 50s Prime Time DO NOT eat the vegetables!! :lmao::rotfl2:

Dare I ask why?

Yeah, didnt want to pay the extra money so just asked nicely at check in

Plus it is your birthday, so make they know that at check in, more likely to get the room you like :thumbsup2

oh cool....Never been to Vegas and hope to one day.:goodvibes

That hat is awesome :woohoo:

Love it :lmao:

Maybe they'll do it because I'm a birthday boy!

I've been to Vegas several times (mostly for work-related conferences) but the fam has never been.

Yes, lovin' the hat - and at first I thought I'd need it for cover from rain. But for once the closer we get to the trip, the BETTER the forecast looks - sunny and warm all the way baby! :banana:

What a doll Roxy is!! And a quick trip report isn't as stressful for you!!

Amen to that, no time to get too amped up, just staying relaxed and waiting for it to hit me like a ME bus! :lmao:

kaoden39

03-30-2011, 12:22 PM

On the plus side less time to over analyze and build it up too high.

Marshay

03-30-2011, 12:37 PM

Dare I ask why?

This is what happened when we went to 50s Prime Time for lunch.

I enjoyed everything about my meal -- see my nicely cleaned plate?
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3384.jpg

But DH thought he could just eat what he wanted to...the meat and potatoes...Silly boy! "mama" wouldn't let him get away with NOT eating the vegetables!!

Open wide
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3386.jpg

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3387.jpg

Beware! If you don't eat your veggies Mama may make you inhale them!:rotfl2:
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3385.jpg

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 02:27 PM

On the plus side less time to over analyze and build it up too high.

Yuppers :thumbsup2

This is what happened when we went to 50s Prime Time for lunch.

I enjoyed everything about my meal -- see my nicely cleaned plate?
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3384.jpg

But DH thought he could just eat what he wanted to...the meat and potatoes...Silly boy! "mama" wouldn't let him get away with NOT eating the vegetables!!

Open wide
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3386.jpg

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3387.jpg

Beware! If you don't eat your veggies Mama may make you inhale them!:rotfl2:
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s250/memch/Oct%20-%20Nov%202005%20Incl%20Disney/DSC_3385.jpg

That is HILARIOUS! :rotfl2: I will be sorely tempted to do that on purpose :laughing:

kaoden39

03-30-2011, 02:30 PM

I was thinking how much fun a 50's cafe would be in DCA. I think it would fit in.:goodvibes

dreamsofdisney

03-30-2011, 02:53 PM

Hello!

We'll be at WDW April 6th-16th and some of our park dates overlap with yours. (We'll be at Epcot on the 8th and DHS and the 9th.) On the 8th, we have ADRs for Le Cellier at 2pm. I just checked, and there are 1:35, 1:40 and 2:25 lunch ADRs available at Le Cellier for that day if you're interested in scooping one up! If you get there before us, feel free to pass along any leftover pretzel bread!
:rotfl:
We'll be celebrating my bday in MK on the 7th. :banana: Hope you have a great time and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 04:16 PM

I was thinking how much fun a 50's cafe would be in DCA. I think it would fit in.:goodvibes

Agreed :thumbsup2

Hello!

We'll be at WDW April 6th-16th and some of our park dates overlap with yours. (We'll be at Epcot on the 8th and DHS and the 9th.) On the 8th, we have ADRs for Le Cellier at 2pm. I just checked, and there are 1:35, 1:40 and 2:25 lunch ADRs available at Le Cellier for that day if you're interested in scooping one up! If you get there before us, feel free to pass along any leftover pretzel bread!
:rotfl:
We'll be celebrating my bday in MK on the 7th. :banana: Hope you have a great time and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Well I know we just met, but I'd kiss ya if I could :love: we had been trying off and on and it kept being booked solid. I jumped on as soon as I saw you post and wrangled the 1:35pm rese!!! :banana::cool1::dance3::cool1::banana:

Thankyee very much and From your rese time I'll be able to do so in person in Le Cellier :worship:

That is so cool that you're going there for a b-day celebration too! No better place to spend it, that's for sure. Do you have a PTR going?

kaoden39

03-30-2011, 04:19 PM

How wonderful!! And how disboard like to help someone else out like that!!

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 04:44 PM

How wonderful!! And how disboard like to help someone else out like that!!

Yes, just another reason DISboards and all of us Disneytastic people ROCK!

kaoden39

03-30-2011, 04:54 PM

Yes, just another reason DISboards and all of us Disneytastic people ROCK!

Yes it is!!

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 06:24 PM

Yes it is!!

:goodvibes pixiedust: :goodvibes pixiedust::goodvibes pixiedust::goodvibes pixiedust:

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 07:01 PM

Itinerary:

Tuesday, April 5th - Travel
- Work in the morning
- Drive to Portland (4hrs)
- Check in at Ramada Portland Airport
- Try to sleep

Wednesday, April 6th - Travel
- 3:45am wake-up - out the door by 4:15am
- Shuttle to airport - check in for 5:30am flight
- Arrive in PDX at 7:59am - Depart for MCO at 8:59am
- Arrive at MCO at 4:18pm - ME to Pop Century
- Quick service dinner at Pop
- If we have the energy, got to DTD and walk around
- Sleep!

Thursday, April 7th - Universal Studios - Islands of Adventure
- Breakfast at Pop
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Counter service lunch
- More Islands of Adventure
- Dinner at Pastamore
- Get Back! Broadway and London Cast of Beatlemania - House of Blues 8pm

Friday, April 8th - EPCOT
- Breakfast at Pop
- Start with Test Track
- Roll around World Showcase (I completely missed it last time)
- Lunch at Le Cellier - confirmed
- More World Showcase
- Counter service dinner whenever/wherever
- Walk through Future World Exhibits
- Fireworks
- EMH - 9pm-Midnight

Saturday, April 9th - Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Breakfast at Pop
- EMH - 8-9am
- Hit RnRC/ToT
- Check out the shows
- Sci-Fi Dine-In lunch - 11:30am confirmed
- More shows/rides
- Dinner at 50s Prime Time - 5:15pm confirmed
- might make this an early evening

Sunday, April 10th - Universal Studios
- Breakfast at Pop
- Ride a bunch of rides
- Counter service lunch
- Ride more rides or head back over to Islands of Adventure
- Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe
- Mardi Gras celebration

Monday, April 11th (Birthday) - Magic Kingdom
- Breakfast at Pop
- Fantasyland classic rides
- Tomorrowland
- Counter Service Lunch
- Adventureland/New Orleans Square
- Dinner at Tony's Town Square - 5:25pm confirmed
- Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party - still hoping
- Stay until park closes

Tuesday, April 12th - Animal Kingdom
- Breakfast at Pop
- Lion King show
- Table Service lunch
- Focus on seeing more animal exhibits
- Dinner TBD

Wednesday, April 13th - Travel
- 5am wake-up - ME
- 7:10am flight - arrive in Phoenix at 9:06am
- 10:15am flight - arrive at PDX at 1:03pm
- Drive home

Trentmom

03-30-2011, 08:01 PM

Yes, just another reason DISboards and all of us Disneytastic people ROCK!

I wish their was a like button on here like Face book

:thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 08:08 PM

I wish their was a like button on here like Face book

:thumbsup2

You know, I've thought that same time myself :goodvibes

Marshay

03-30-2011, 08:39 PM

Yes, even if you love your veggies ... make sure you leave a few extra on the plate ... and have Roxy with camera in hand!

mnmrmustard

03-30-2011, 10:08 PM

Yes, even if you love your veggies ... make sure you leave a few extra on the plate ... and have Roxy with camera in hand!

Will do! :woohoo:

mnmrmustard

04-02-2011, 03:21 PM

Trentmom

04-02-2011, 08:33 PM

I kept checking back and was able to find a lunch time opening for Tony's Town Square so I cancelled the dinner res there. Still hoping to get that Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party rese and don't want to be too full from Tony's ;) :thumbsup2

We went to Tony;s a couple years ago on a whim as we had to cancel another adr when trent was sick and it was our favorite meal hands down :goodvibes

cherbear

04-02-2011, 09:46 PM

wow, what a great snag!! I'm sorry I missed your post earlier about what date you wanted but it doesn't matter now. Absolutely thrilled that you got in to Le Cellier!!

I still really want that tag though. :rotfl:

Marsha, I'm sure I must've seen those pics before but I don't remember them!

Mike, when MY Mike didn't eat his veggies...he knew what would happen. So he attempted to go dump his greens on the table next to ours, where the party had just left.

Well, his plan ALMOST worked. The waiter, I think his name was Tim, happened to be coming by as Mike was returning to his seat. He studied his table and then pointed and said "Are these yours? What are you doing putting your greens on my table?? Come here, you're going in time out!" He made him stand up with his nose against the wall. And when Mike started laughing he said "oh you think this is funny? JAAAANEETTT!! Look what your boy did, he put his greens on my table" She went and scolded him, with her hands on her hips. And then she said "No dessert for you!" This went on for a good 15 minutes and it was a complete riot.
To top it off, the family directly next to us was from the VERY TOWN I grew up in (only 40 minutes from where we NOW live) and their boys were hilarious. They made sure to "tattle" on Mike, so he would have never gotten away with it had Tim not caught him. LOL

mnmrmustard

04-03-2011, 10:42 PM

We went to Tony;s a couple years ago on a whim as we had to cancel another adr when trent was sick and it was our favorite meal hands down :goodvibes

Cool, that's great to hear. I'm hoping for a great birthday meal there ...me love that pasta :)

wow, what a great snag!! I'm sorry I missed your post earlier about what date you wanted but it doesn't matter now. Absolutely thrilled that you got in to Le Cellier!!

I still really want that tag though. :rotfl:

Hehe, yes got it. I got lucky on that one for sure :woohoo:

Mike, when MY Mike didn't eat his veggies...he knew what would happen. So he attempted to go dump his greens on the table next to ours, where the party had just left.

Well, his plan ALMOST worked. The waiter, I think his name was Tim, happened to be coming by as Mike was returning to his seat. He studied his table and then pointed and said "Are these yours? What are you doing putting your greens on my table?? Come here, you're going in time out!" He made him stand up with his nose against the wall. And when Mike started laughing he said "oh you think this is funny? JAAAANEETTT!! Look what your boy did, he put his greens on my table" She went and scolded him, with her hands on her hips. And then she said "No dessert for you!" This went on for a good 15 minutes and it was a complete riot.
To top it off, the family directly next to us was from the VERY TOWN I grew up in (only 40 minutes from where we NOW live) and their boys were hilarious. They made sure to "tattle" on Mike, so he would have never gotten away with it had Tim not caught him. LOL

Wow, that will be a tough one to beat - I'll have to think on it :laughing:

THREE DAYS TO GOOOOO!!!!!! :dance3:

kaoden39

04-03-2011, 11:03 PM

So, so close!!

mnmrmustard

04-04-2011, 10:18 AM

So, so close!!

:cool1::banana::cool1::banana::cool1:

mnmrmustard

04-04-2011, 10:19 AM

It has gotten better and better as our departure has approached!

Wednesday, April 6th (travel day) – Sunny and 77 degrees

Thursday, April 7th (Universal Studios – Islands of Adventure) – Partly sunny and 83 degrees

Friday, April 8th (EPCOT) – Partly cloudy with isolated showers and 87 degrees

Saturday, April 9th (Disney’s Hollywood Studios) – Mostly sunny and 86 degrees

Sunday, April 10th (Universal Studios) – Less humid with some sun and 89 degrees

Monday, April 11th (Magic Kingdom) – Mostly sunny and 87 degrees

Tuesday, April 12th (Animal Kingdom) – Mostly overcast and 89 degrees

Marshay

04-04-2011, 12:49 PM

Marsha, I'm sure I must've seen those pics before but I don't remember them!

Actually, nope, you haven't. That trip was in 2004 BD (before Dis) :rotfl2:

cherbear

04-04-2011, 01:26 PM

Actually, nope, you haven't. That trip was in 2004 BD (before Dis) :rotfl2:

:lmao:

well thanks for sharing them with us!

Trentmom

04-04-2011, 06:35 PM

Weather looks gorgeous

You really lucked out.

I think last week it was like a week of non stop raining

:)

mnmrmustard

04-05-2011, 06:58 PM

Weather looks gorgeous

You really lucked out.

I think last week it was like a week of non stop raining

:)

Yup, last week was lots of thunderstorms and it was looking doubtful for this next week when I first looked. But as the dates grew nearer the weather has for once gotten better!

Car is packed, we're about to hit the road for Portland - whoohoo! :banana::yay::banana:

kaoden39

04-05-2011, 07:04 PM

Yup, last week was lots of thunderstorms and it was looking doubtful for this next week when I first looked. But as the dates grew nearer the weather has for once gotten better!

Car is packed, we're about to hit the road for Portland - whoohoo! :banana::yay::banana:

Oh this is great!! I hope you two have a great time!!

Trentmom

04-05-2011, 08:33 PM

Have a good trip!!!!

Can't wait to hear all about it and see your pics

:dance3:

cherbear

04-06-2011, 12:37 PM

Headed out??? Have a great trip!!!!!!!!!!

:dance3::cool1::banana::woohoo::yay:

Marshay

04-06-2011, 01:10 PM

Have fun!!!!

I can't wait to hear about it!:cool1:

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 11:46 AM

Oh this is great!! I hope you two have a great time!!

It was quite an experience for sure!

Have a good trip!!!!

Can't wait to hear all about it and see your pics

:dance3:

Finally getting things together for the TR - will have info soon!

Headed out??? Have a great trip!!!!!!!!!!

:dance3::cool1::banana::woohoo::yay:

TY Cheri!

Have fun!!!!

I can't wait to hear about it!:cool1:

Info coming soon - gotta get the thread moved over to the TRs ;)

kaoden39

04-19-2011, 11:57 AM

I am starting my own planning!! We are going in 2012 for our 20th anniversary!!

Marshay

04-19-2011, 01:00 PM

I am starting my own planning!! We are going in 2012 for our 20th anniversary!!

Oooh, yeah!! I missed this on the other thread.

Are you doing WDW, too??:cool1:

kaoden39

04-19-2011, 02:29 PM

Oooh, yeah!! I missed this on the other thread.

Are you doing WDW, too??:cool1:

Yes, Scotty and I decided that it would make a nice 20th anniversary!!

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 03:03 PM

As you all knew this trip came up very last minute. The mad scramble was fun and the whole trip was quite an adventure. However we did not have an easy road as far as family goes.

For some background my wife is the primary caregiver for my mother-in-law (who I will refer to as “mom” from here on out). She has been living with us for several years now and can't get around on her own at all anymore. She has crushed vertebrae, sciatica, hip pain, knee pain (1 hip and both knees have been replaced), arthritis, breathing problems, and lymphedema. When she gets around at all it is in an ECV.

When we told her we were going she was pretty insistent that her and our daughters could handle the household by themselves. We told her as tactfully as we could that we didn’t want the responsibility for her care to rest on our 14 & 11yr old daughters and that we had arranged for our sister-in-law and 22yr old nephew to come up and help out. She was not happy about it at all and kept insisting that they would be fine. :headache: That was on the Saturday before we left.

Sunday morning dawns and my wife went in to give her morning meds to her and found her feverish and bouncing back and forth between being delirious and unresponsive :eek: We were able to get her cooled down enough to be coherent, but she was still feverish and having trouble breathing. We ended up having to take her to the emergency room. She was admitted later that day and was diagnosed with pneumonia. This is two days before we are set to leave town :sad2:

I can’t even fathom what would have happened if one of my daughters had walked in on that situation :scared1: We knew it was a possibility but mom just wouldn’t see it. I’m so very glad that we were there and that we weren’t leaving without adults there to take care of things. I spent Sunday working on packing and helping the kids prepare for the next week.

Meanwhile Roxy spent most of that first night at mom’s side, came home and slept a few hours, and went back to the hospital Monday morning. She wanted to talk to mom’s doctor when he made rounds. He was unfortunately late for rounds so she didn’t get to work until early afternoon on a day she had to do payroll.

Our helpers arrived Monday evening and we all went down to visit my MiL. She was doing a bit better but wouldn’t be going home anytime soon. We all grabbed some dinner at Matsukaze (Kyra and Roxy’s favorite place to eat) and then headed home. The next day we checked in on mom and Roxy and I both went to work. I worked until noon and then ran errands and finished packing. Roxy got off at 5pm. She was going to be off at noon also but due to missing half of Monday she had to work a full day - silly people wanted their paychecks :lmao: We said our good-byes to everyone at home. From there we went down to the hospital and visited with mom until 7pm.

Then it was just the simple 4hr drive north to Portland for our 5:30am flight out the next day. The upside was that we left late enough to miss all of the traffic so we pulled in to the Portland Ramada near the airport at 10:30pm, 1/2hr early. We checked in and got settled in, getting to sleep around 11:30pm …wake-up at 3:30am and we’re off and rolling! :rotfl: :thumbsup2

Click Here to view the next chapter: Day 1 Part 1 - Have We Really Escaped??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800103&postcount=61)

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 03:04 PM

I am starting my own planning!! We are going in 2012 for our 20th anniversary!!

Cool, looking forward to hear what you have planned! :thumbsup2

kaoden39

04-19-2011, 03:35 PM

mermaid764

04-19-2011, 04:24 PM

I'm joining in:goodvibes

I missed seeing your PTR, but have loved your last TR's and can't wait to read along with this one as well

I Believe In Magic

04-19-2011, 04:38 PM

wow what a couple of days you guys had before you left!! I hope the rest of your TR is filled with great news, and that you both had a great time for your birthday!!

Trentmom

04-19-2011, 05:17 PM

WOW...what an eventful start

I hope "mom" is okay now.

Roxy really needed this trip I bet

Can't wait to hear rest :goodvibes

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 11:25 PM

Oh wow what a bumpy start, I hope she is okay now. I can imagine it was hard for Roxy to leave with the situation the way it was. And at the same time I have to tell you the poor dear needed this trip for herself too. I look forward to reading more.

Yes, we decided yesterday to start planning our trip yesterday and I have no clue about WDW so this should be fun. I can plan a Disneyland trip with one eye closed. In this I am a naive soul.:rotfl:

Yes, bumpy for sure. She is okay now - lungs are clear and pain levels are down. And yes, Roxy very much needed the vacation too.

As far as WDW trip planning, you're surrounded by lots of experts here :thumbsup2 We really enjoyed staying at Pop, that's for sure!

I'm joining in:goodvibes

I missed seeing your PTR, but have loved your last TR's and can't wait to read along with this one as well

Glad to have you on board and thank you for the compliment! I'm hitting the ground running with part 1 in a few minutes :yay:

wow what a couple of days you guys had before you left!! I hope the rest of your TR is filled with great news, and that you both had a great time for your birthday!!

Thank you, mostly great news to come. Lots of smiles and fun.

WOW...what an eventful start

I hope "mom" is okay now.

Roxy really needed this trip I bet

Can't wait to hear rest :goodvibes

Yes, very colorful. And mom is home and resting well. Now off I go to start the fun :banana: :wizard:

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 11:31 PM

Ding Ding Ding!!! 3:30am wake-up after 4 restless hours

We had everything laid out so it was a quick splash of water/bathroom stuff and we were in our comfy clothes for a day of air travel. We grabbed our gear and rolled down to the lobby at 4am. We were met by of all people, the US Airways flight crew for our flight! :laughing:

Not much conversation on the way in and a very uneventful drop-off and bag drop. It was a bummer to have to pay for each checked bag (we had been flying United, which lets you check one bag at no charge). We were there with just over an hour before our flight. We found a corner and I snoozed on the floor for a while Roxy watched our stuff. After a half hour we switched.

Boarding was the standard cattle drive, as we were about to board the person behind us was nice enough to snap this with my phone

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-006.JPG

The trip itself was only two hours, which went fast. The sun came up as we were flying.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-007.JPG

We landed in Phoenix just after sunrise and had a short walk to our next gate. The wait was only about 45min before out next flight. Roxy bought some snacks and two good neck pillows with sun devils on them. The big downside of the next leg was that we were unable to get seats together. The best I could do was to get seats right behind each other. They were middle seats so there was no way anyone would switch.

It turned out to be all right as both of us were blessed with smaller people on either side of us. We had more room than we would have sitting together. No movies or anything on the flight but the bagel sandwich they offered for lunch wasn’t bad and we both had good books. We had a good tail wind and landed at MCO a full 25 minutes earlier than scheduled!

I got a stewardess to take a pic of Roxy and I on the MCO monorail, I hope Roxy doesn’t mind that I’m posting it even though she was talking when they snapped it

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-008.JPG

Now since we planned this so last minute we couldn’t get the full ME service for our bags (no tags to have them taken to our resort). So we did have to go to baggage claim and get our suitcases and roll down to the ME Welcome Center. There was no line so we went right up to the counter and were soon on our way down the line to the spot where they have you wait. We were there a whole 30 seconds before they let the handful of us that were there out the door and on to our bus. We settled in and I snapped a quick pic of Roxy

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-009.JPG

We hit the road and waited for the ME movie to start

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-010.JPG

Ye ole MCO tower

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-011.JPG

An another ME bus :D

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-012.JPG

We left the airport

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-013.JPG

And started watching the show

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-014.JPG

Hiiii Mickey!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-015.JPG

Hark, I see exits to “The World!”

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-016.JPG

Getting clooossseeee!!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-017.JPG

And honestly I cheated with this – due to where we were sitting I couldn’t get a shot of the entrance until days later when we were heading to Universal the second time. But here it is anyways!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-018.JPG

We made it on to property and made a quick stop at the Caribbean Beach to drop off passengers. It looked like a cool place but it looked so spread out. Seemed like there would be a lot of walking involved in getting around there.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-019.JPG

The sales pitch and info part had finished on screen and I glanced up in time to see Donald getting into mischief

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-020.JPG

Then there it was!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-021.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-022.JPG

On through the gate

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-023.JPG

We rolled in to the front door

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-024.JPG

We were greeted by no lines and lots of smiles

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-025.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-026.JPG

Norman was nice enough to snap a pic of us

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-027.JPG

We checked in and got our packet

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-028.JPG

I had asked them if they got me a good room for my birthday. They said 50s pool view – w00t! We walked out the door and I got my first real view of the bowling pins.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-029.JPG

Coming up, we settle in and head out

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 1 Part 2 - Heading Downtown (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800374&postcount=67)

disneygeeks

04-19-2011, 11:48 PM

you can count me in....I went for my b-day about 2 years ago and everything was so much fun and lots of character meetings...have fun and I hope it all works out for you.

mnmrmustard

04-19-2011, 11:58 PM

you can count me in....I went for my b-day about 2 years ago and everything was so much fun and lots of character meetings...have fun and I hope it all works out for you.

Welcome to my birthday adventure! There were lots of character interactions along with LOADS of random guests wishing me a happy B-Day :banana:

disneygeeks

04-20-2011, 12:03 AM

mermaid764

04-20-2011, 12:23 AM

Yah for finally arriving at POP after your long day of travel.

We stayed 50's pool view our last visit there and loved the location, hopefully you guys did too.

Can't wait to hear where you were headed to first:goodvibes

disneygeeks

04-20-2011, 12:25 AM

love it so far...great TR...the last time we went we stayed at the pop as well and really it was a great place to stay....take care.

mnmrmustard

04-20-2011, 12:34 AM

The main pool looked very inviting.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-030.JPG

Loved the tie-dye

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-031.JPG

This was the view from room 3303

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-032.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-033.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-033b.JPG

Loved the room, found a friend inside the door.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-035.JPG

We had a mega-comfortable king-sized bed, new flat-screen TV, and an accessable shower. We didn’t know why we had that shower, but we really enjoyed the space we had to move around in there. We found out later from one of the lifeguards that Pop had undergone a big upgrade (or at least our section had) and had the new TVs and the beds were from one of the Port Orleans resorts.

We headed out for dinner, looking across and saying ‘hi’ to Lady as we passed, she was on the other side - we were on the Tramp side.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-034.JPG

Here is the only food pic I took, I really tried but couldn’t keep my mind on snapping pics of food. It was a good meatball sub though ;-D

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-036.JPG

After dinner we hopped on a bus for Downtown Disney. Goofy was on the road too!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-037.JPG

There wasn’t anyone handy to take a pic for us when we got there so I used the timer

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-038.JPG

The brooms looked busy

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-039.JPG

We walked through a bunch of shops of course. While Roxy made a pit stop I caught a shot of the foot traffic at sundown.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-040.JPG

Choochoo!

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Loved the tinker toys

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-043.JPG

Roxy took my pic with Buzz

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-044.JPG

We then crossed the street to the pin store and said ‘hi’ to some classic characters

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-045.JPG

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The captain takes the wheel outside World of Disney!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-047.JPG

I see some worthy recruits for my crew

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-047b.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-047c.JPG

But if we were going to be pirates, we’d probably have to cross swords with Pan and his lot

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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-049.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-050.JPG

Up next, we continue our walk through the World of Disney and more of DTD :thumbsup2

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 1 Part 3 - Walking and Shopping and Walking Some More! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40800406&postcount=69)

mnmrmustard

04-20-2011, 12:39 AM

That is hilarious:rotfl2:...I haven't eaten there yet but hope to next time I go to WDW

Oh you should, it was by far our favorite place to eat at DHS :)

Yah for finally arriving at POP after your long day of travel.

We stayed 50's pool view our last visit there and loved the location, hopefully you guys did too.

Can't wait to hear where you were headed to first:goodvibes

It was a very welcome site :goodvibes We enjoyed it very much and will either stay there again or at the new Pixar-themed resort they are building next to Pop :thumbsup2

You don't have to wait long - already have it rolling ;)

love it so far...great TR...the last time we went we stayed at the pop as well and really it was a great place to stay....take care.

Thank you, it is so much fun reliving it as I go through the pics and TR notes :yay: :goodvibes :yay:

mnmrmustard

04-20-2011, 12:43 AM

It was a “whole new world” up there

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-051.JPG

With little piggies three

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-052.JPG

Goofy was cruisin’

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-053.JPG

Donald in an egg?

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-054.JPG

And our good friend the Jeanie

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-055.JPG

Tick Tock

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-056.JPG

I finally put down the camera and shopped a bit. I picked up my birthday hat which you will see me sporting later on in MK.

Roxy found some stuff for the girls. This trend continued throughout the trip – lol We headed back out and passed the lego dragon

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-057.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-058.JPG

We strolled past the Dino-themed restaurant T-Rex – rawwrrrr!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-059.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-064.JPG

We headed on around the corner and ran into one of those living statues – very cool

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-060.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-061.JPG

Cool fountain

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-062.JPG

We started backtrackin as it was getting late. Looked across to ye ole Rainforest

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-063.JPG

Back past World of Disney

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-065.JPG

We took a pit stop at the margarita stand and cooled our throats and our feet. Good view from there

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-066.JPG

We headed back towards the entrance and passed the merry go round, love the classic look of this one

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-068.JPG

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Back “home” again

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Good night Tramp!

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-072.JPG

We made it back and settled into bed and were asleep by 11pm. Tomorrow brings us Universal and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! :wizard:

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 1 - On to Universal's Islands (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40828999&postcount=79)

Trentmom

04-20-2011, 02:01 PM

Loving all your pics

Your pics in World of Disney are great. Love that store

Sunset picture is so pretty :goodvibes

Can't wait to hear about Harry Potter and Universal :thumbsup2

kaoden39

04-20-2011, 02:23 PM

HI Mike.

I love all the pictures. Roxy has a great smile, she smiles in her eyes.

Great pictures. Pop looks great. You didn't by any chance get pictures of the room did you?

cherbear

04-20-2011, 02:24 PM

wow, so much has changed since my last trip in Sept '09!

I didn't know they had living statues at DTD!! Do you remember the living statues they used to have in Epcot? (I think it was epcot...?) They were all in gray and I remember being freaked out by them when I was a kid. I remember on one our summer family trips several years back when I was a teen (okay maybe a little more than "several" now. :rotfl:) we asked where the living statues were. A castmember told us that it was too hot at that time of day for them to be out. (I guess the makeup would melt) So we never did see them that trip...and haven't seen them since. I guess they are gone forever!! But now I am curious to see the ones in DTD :goodvibes

I loved your picture out of the window, of the sun coming up. And your pics at WoD are so detailed....sometimes we forget to look up!!

mnmrmustard

04-20-2011, 04:57 PM

Loving all your pics

Your pics in World of Disney are great. Love that store

Sunset picture is so pretty :goodvibes

Can't wait to hear about Harry Potter and Universal :thumbsup2

Thank you, and it is a very cool store - just goes on and on. I've got some cool pics for Harry Potter, just finishing up editing them :goodvibes

HI Mike.

I love all the pictures. Roxy has a great smile, she smiles in her eyes.

Great pictures. Pop looks great. You didn't by any chance get pictures of the room did you?

Thankyee! Yes, she has a wonderful smile. Pop is very cool, we loved it. But no, I unfortunately didn't get pics of the room. When we came in my camera was packed and by the time I had it out we had already "taken over" the room.

I did find a couple online - the difference is that the entertainment center they show has been replaced with a 6-drawer dresser with a 30-odd inch flatscreen on top of it.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/PopRoom1.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/PopRoom2.JPG

wow, so much has changed since my last trip in Sept '09!

I didn't know they had living statues at DTD!! Do you remember the living statues they used to have in Epcot? (I think it was epcot...?) They were all in gray and I remember being freaked out by them when I was a kid. I remember on one our summer family trips several years back when I was a teen (okay maybe a little more than "several" now. :rotfl:) we asked where the living statues were. A castmember told us that it was too hot at that time of day for them to be out. (I guess the makeup would melt) So we never did see them that trip...and haven't seen them since. I guess they are gone forever!! But now I am curious to see the ones in DTD :goodvibes

I loved your picture out of the window, of the sun coming up. And your pics at WoD are so detailed....sometimes we forget to look up!!

DTD is going through some revamps, fenced areas in a couple of places. And we didn't even go down to the other end.

Never saw the living statues at EPCOT, that must have been cool. I'm sure it would have freaked you out as a kid. I'll have to keep an eye out for them on future trips - I can tell you it was waaayyy too hot on our EPCOT day for them to have been out.

TY about the pics, I love those little details :thumbsup2

kaoden39

04-20-2011, 06:46 PM

Thank you. It looks like they did the changes similar to some of the changes at the DLH.

mnmrmustard

04-21-2011, 09:11 PM

Thank you. It looks like they did the changes similar to some of the changes at the DLH.

It felt very comfortable, I certainly didn't feel like the skimped with it being a "value resort"

kaoden39

04-21-2011, 09:45 PM

It felt very comfortable, I certainly didn't feel like the skimped with it being a "value resort"

Oh that sounds promising.

mnmrmustard

04-21-2011, 11:48 PM

Oh that sounds promising.

Oh yes, we were very happy with the comfort, the maid service, the food, and the desk help. Would stay there again in a heartbeat. 50s, 60s, and 70s have the best location in relation to the front of the house if you're looking ;)

kaoden39

04-21-2011, 11:52 PM

Oh yes, we were very happy with the comfort, the maid service, the food, and the desk help. Would stay there again in a heartbeat. 50s, 60s, and 70s have the best location in relation to the front of the house if you're looking ;)

Ok cool. I am so confused. It is a good thing that I am planning so far ahead.

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 01:04 AM

Okay, time to make a confession before we head into the parks. I of course received my Birthday button when we checked in. I decided that since it would be a very long time before I ever made it back to Disney for my b-day, that I’d make the most of it. Each day I would be hitting a different park so each day I was going to wear that button! It was going to be 6 days of Birthday baby!

So I can tell you we slept hard after such a long travel day. The BIG upside was that the bed was mega-comfortable. It seemed softer than one I would like but I still slept well and Roxy LOVED it! We got up around 7am, grabbed showers and slathered on the sunscreen …oh, and we got dressed somewhere in there too ;D

We headed down to the food court and grabbed breakfast burritos and waters to go. We had reserved two seats on Mears for 8:25am to take us to Universal. The bus was on time – they take cash on the spot. If any of you want to do the same it costs $19 per person for round trip fare. You need to call Mears to make the rese to come back to the resort at least two hours before you want to leave, but the busses run every hour from Universal at 15 minutes after the hour until 2:15am!

We boarded shuttle, it had one more pick-up at Caribbean Beach. Unfortunately there was a very unhappy camper there with his fam. Pitched a fit about something and made us all wait. The driver is standing off to the side with a Disney security guy while a concierge talks to Mr. Loudmouth. Finally a Mears checker cab shows up and they get in it. We all applauded the driver when she got back on for showing such patience with such a blowhard. Funny thing is that we literally followed them all the way to the drop off and Roxy and I made it into the park before them because he had some issue at the ticket counter too. I felt sorry for his wife and kids.

We walked along the moving walkway and came to the entrance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-073.JPG

Got our first sight of the Islands tower
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-074.JPG

Loved the airplane theme of that place
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-075.JPG

I made a pit stop while Roxy checked with customer services and got me an actual Universal Birthday Button (they just started – whoohoo!)
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-076.JPG

We headed in through the marketplace
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-077.JPG

For the panoramas I’ve taken I’m including links to the original size if you want to see them (and yes, I had to shave the roof off of the building on the left - I missed a chunk of it and it looked wierd when I put it together in photoshop):

Marketplace Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-077p.jpg)

On into Dr Seuss land!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-078.JPG

Happy fishies!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-079.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-080.JPG

Love their version of the merry go round
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-081.JPG

That be a big hat!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-082.JPG

Food court Dr Seuss style
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-083.JPG

Where the Lorax lives
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-084.JPG

A colorful street for sure!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-085.JPG

A Seussian Street (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-085p.jpg)

Gertrude McFuzzes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-088.JPG

We left Dr Seuss Land and worked our way into The Lost Continent
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-089.JPG

I think he has a bit of a drool issue
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-090.JPG

Great theming
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-091.JPG

We were making a bee line for Harry Potter when Roxy saw the entrance for Poseidon’s Fury
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-092.JPG

We made it through the line and into the first room with the archeologist intern. He started his spiel and then left and came back. I was "outspoken" in responding to him and Roxy said it was my b-day. he then got the whole crowd to sing happy birthday to me – lol

We then waited a bit more and attendants opened an exit door and said the ride had closed due to someone in the group ahead of us passing out. We were lead out and down an exterior stair and along the side of the building and back to the entrance.
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Roxy helped point the way
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Poseidon’s Fury – AKA Building 231
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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-101.JPG

They told us we could use the express line when it opened back up by using the phrase "God is with us"

Next up, we make into Harry Potter …or do we?

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 2 – Hogsmeade has a Waitlist (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40837296&postcount=85)

kaoden39

04-22-2011, 10:58 AM

Trentmom

04-22-2011, 11:15 AM

I would have worn the button each day too :thumbsup2

Loving all your pics. Have not been since before Trent was born, so am thinking a trip is in order for us

bummer on the ride going down. Hope that person was okay

So cool that you go to go backstage sort of

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 02:41 PM

I love the Dr Seuss stuff. I have always loved Dr Seuss.

I would so wear my birthday pin the whole trip too!! Why not? What are the chances that outside of the CMs at your resort that you will even see the same CM again. If you do what are the odds they'll even remember you if you do see them again?

Am I strange but I don't care about the rides at Universal but I do care about seeing all of the things? I want to see the Seuss area and the Harry Potter area.

Yeah, some really good theming in Dr Seuss, not a single straight line to be found.

Thank you on the b-day pin thing, if I was getting money or something I would have felt bad, but it really just came down to having a bunch of people say "happy birthday" to me.

I'm totally with you on seeting the stuff - the rides are fun but I'm all about the theming :laughing:

I would have worn the button each day too :thumbsup2

Loving all your pics. Have not been since before Trent was born, so am thinking a trip is in order for us

bummer on the ride going down. Hope that person was okay

So cool that you go to go backstage sort of

It was nice that Universal started doing buttons, up to this point they just did stickers ;)

We hadn't been since 2002 so it was a big treat to see all that had changed. I would say it is certainly worth a couple of days, two seemed to do us fine.

Yes, I hope the person was okay too. As far as the ride, it is more of a walk-through looking at big animitronics and pyro stuff. I saw it the first time through and was okay taking a miss on it this time.

Yes, I enjoyed the whole back stage thing for sure, I was jazzed.

mermaid764

04-22-2011, 04:16 PM

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 04:50 PM

How was your experience with Mears Transport overall? We're considering doing this for Universal on our next trip as well.

Islands Of Adventure Looks amazing, and neat that you guys got to see a bit of a backstage area.

Looking forward to hearing all about your day:goodvibes

We were very happy with our Mears experience both days that we used it. Courteous, knowledgable drivers and helpful reservation clerks on the phone :)

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 04:51 PM

We rounded back past Mr. Dribblebeard and hung a right
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-103.JPG

Loved the theming in this area
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-104.JPG

We had seen a guy with a sign about vouchers for Harry Potter pointing towards the Sinbad area but didn’t know what it was for so walked past him. We kept walking through the marketplace
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-105.JPG

We rounded on the entrance to Hogsmead village and found a barrier.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-106.JPG

It turned out they have a limit as to how many people they let in and you had to get vouchers to return. We winded back around to the Sinbad area.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-107.JPG

We found several of Universal’s versions of CMs holding out vouchers. Our return ticket was for about 45min later. We puttered around the marketplace a bit longer and then found some shade. It was already getting pretty hot.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-108.JPG

Soon enough our time came and we headed in. One of the gate attendants took a couple of pics for us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-109.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-110.JPG

The rooftops were all snowy, which was interesting considering the 90 degree weather and the humidity..
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-111.JPG

As I had said before, the Wizarding World was all for Roxy. I enjoyed it but she said she got that tickling feeling of excitement that she doesn’t even remember having as a kid! I got her pic with the conductor of the Express
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-112.JPG

And then beside it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-113.JPG

Another shot of the shops
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-114.JPG

She got a kick out of the Puking Pastilles
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-115.JPG

The shops really fit the theming well
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-116.JPG

The Butterbeer was a big hit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-117.JPG

All of the shop windows had great stuff in them including those little screaming plants
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-118.JPG

Here's a vid of the plant and Hogsmeade (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-7-WStrtBk&feature=channel_video_title)

We walked on and got our first look at Hogwarts Castle
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-119.JPG

More pics of the castle comin’ atcha!
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Hogwarts Large Shot (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-123p.jpg)

We got in line for the ride, they have lockers for you to store you stuff in (free for the wait time of the ride). Having not rode the ride before I didn’t want to risk my camera so it got stowed too (don’t worry, I got pics later on). The line wait was 90 minutes when we went in. And early on in it they had a drink station. Here is when I embarked on the “no kids with us, let’s have a beer” part of the journey. They were selling tallboy Heineken among other things so I grabbed one. I can tell you it made the line wait easier to take – lol

The theming inside was fantastic and the ride was a total blast, good mix of real sets and video screens that you “fly” through.

When we came out I found that lo and behold, it was hot and there was another vendor of cool refreshing beverages! I grabbed another Heineken and we got in line for Ollivander’s Wand Class. At the end of the line we took a pic of a Japanese couple in front of Hogwarts and then he took a pic of us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-124.JPG

And yes, just one more shot of Hogwarts itself
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-125.JPG

We went past a display of the Quidditch ball case – all of the balls were jumping around in their restraints just like in the first movie :D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-126.JPG

Here's a vid of the Quidditch balls in action (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXQM7_skCl4&feature=channel_video_title)

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-127.JPG

Next up - my drinking tour continues!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 3 – My Drinking Tour of Hogwarts Continues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40837868&postcount=86)

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 05:44 PM

The line went pretty slow because they only let in small groups at a time. We passed the façade of the book store which of course had several of Gilderoy Lockhart’s books displayed (some showed live motion of the ex-professor).
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-128.JPG

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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-130.JPG

We made it a ways further in the line when lo and behold; I was in need of another cool, refreshing beverage (Roxy had been sipping on water like a smart person). Roxy kept our spot while I went back to the beverage cart.

The village was really humming
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-131.JPG

Dervish AND Bangles!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-132.JPG

The Griffin (it was the Unicorn the last time we were here)
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-133.JPG

Loved the snowman, made me feel almost a degree cooler ;D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-134.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-135.JPG

I stopped in on the facilities – had to mention them simply because they have Moaning Myrtle talking to you while you’re in there. When I came back out the ladies from Beauxbaton were performing.
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I got another refreshing beverage and came back just before Roxy got to the front. I apologized for being away but Roxy said she understood and that she knew I needed to satisfy that picture bug.

We went into Ollivanders and he started speaking about choosing a wand
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He picked a girl and she tried a wand
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It didn’t go well, we had a lightning strike. They tried a couple more.
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Roxy took a pic with me and Ollivander
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Lots of wands in there!
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The “class” empties out into the gift shop. I swear they had a wand for every character and every occasion. They even had the monster book
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They also had the post with an Owlrey – they even ship hats!
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Roxy kept shopping while I “refreshed” myself. This time the Hogswart singers were out with their croaking toads. They were very good.
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I even got a pic with them after they finished
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Next up we tour the shops and take in the shows!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 4 – Front Row Seats (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40848250&postcount=94)

kaoden39

04-22-2011, 05:49 PM

How cool is it that Roxy was so excited about the whole Hogsmeade area!! I love that!! I have to ask, does butterbeer taste like butterscotch?

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 06:45 PM

How cool is it that Roxy was so excited about the whole Hogsmeade area!! I love that!! I have to ask, does butterbeer taste like butterscotch?

Yes, very butterscotchy with a separate creamy foam head that they pour on it. It is amazing stuff - go for the frozen kind, it is the best. Roxy LOVED it!

Trentmom

04-22-2011, 06:58 PM

Not into Harry Potter, but have to say, Wow, that is some great theming :thumbsup2

That is so cool how excited Roxy was about it :goodvibes

Sounds like u were enjoying yourself :laughing:

kaoden39

04-22-2011, 08:33 PM

Yes, very butterscotchy with a separate creamy foam head that they pour on it. It is amazing stuff - go for the frozen kind, it is the best. Roxy LOVED it!

Yummy sounds good.

mnmrmustard

04-22-2011, 09:34 PM

Not into Harry Potter, but have to say, Wow, that is some great theming :thumbsup2

That is so cool how excited Roxy was about it :goodvibes

Sounds like u were enjoying yourself :laughing:

Agreed, I've watched the movies but was never into the books or the fandom of them. But still very cool place.

Having Roxy so excited was very cool :goodvibes:cool1:

Yes, it was my "liquid lunch" day :lmao:

Yummy sounds good.

I had a sip and thought so - we went back there on our Universal Studios day and she got another one ;)

mermaid764

04-22-2011, 09:43 PM

Wow the theming is amazing, that's awesome that Roxy was so excited to be there!

You got some awesome pics of the area, and I'm looking forward to more:goodvibes

mnmrmustard

04-23-2011, 12:59 PM

Wow the theming is amazing, that's awesome that Roxy was so excited to be there!

You got some awesome pics of the area, and I'm looking forward to more:goodvibes

Indeed! Very cool theming - they did a great job with the smallest details. And I was so happy that Roxy was happy here :)

More awesome pics coming up!

mnmrmustard

04-23-2011, 04:38 PM

By now it was really, really hot. Did I mention it was hot? I headed back through the village
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Roxy and I decided to head into Honeydukes and get some goodies. They had chocolate frogs in the window - yum
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A nice clerk from Jersey took a pic of us in it
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We picked up some fudge for Roxy, a chocolate frog for each girl, and peppermint toads for mom. Beyond Honeydukes is Fred and George’s Joke shop
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We didn’t buy anything in there but it was fun to look through. We headed back outside. I mentioned it was hot, right? Roxy found a spot of shade and I got in line for a frozen butterbeer for Roxy. There are two places to get butterbeer, both are unfortunately in direct sunlight. I stopped off at a liquid refreshment stand (only a couple of people in line there). Then I was able to brave the long line for the butterbeer.

Roxy had sat in the shade and talked to another lady while she waited. They had a nice conversation and I was pretty much feeling no pain. I brought Roxy her first butterbeer and she LOVED it! We then moved to the wall in the spot where the performers come out. There was just enough shade there to keep us cool while we sipped our drinks and waited for the next performance.

It turned out to be the singers who were up next. They march in singing from somewhere near Hogwarts Castle. They put on a very cool show.

There was a conductor and a representative from each house at Hogwarts
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The frogs gave cool bass tones
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The girl from Slytherin was the most talented vocalist and did the majority of the lead work
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After watching the video our girls both dinged the conductor for not really knowing how to conduct - lol
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They sang 4 songs I think
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Close-up of the performers
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The guy from Ravenclaw did a kind of rap take on Hogwarts choral, which was kind of fun
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They had a cute little interaction with the frogs towards the end
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Big finale
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They unfortunately did not stay for pictures this time. I believe this was due to the heat. I can’t blame them, very hot and humid and you’ve been performing in direct sunlight in black cloaks – ugh!

Here's Roxy's Hogwarts Choir Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLVfPPczr58)

Next up were the girls from the Beauxbaton Academy of Magic and the guys from Durmstrang Institute for Magical Learning. The ladies marched in first, each giving a coy look to the gathered crowd
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They guys followed looking very stern of course
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Next up, the competing schools perform!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 5 - Acrobatics and Dance – Wizard Style (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40849675&postcount=96)

kaoden39

04-23-2011, 06:29 PM

The performers sound so cool and I will watch those for sure. And fudge? Dare I ask? Was it good fudge?

mnmrmustard

04-23-2011, 07:11 PM

First both schools lined up while a Hogwarts student introduced them
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Beauxbaton and Durmstrang Large (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-179p.jpg)

The guys came out first and came out strong
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Then it was the ladies turn, they were all grace and elegance. They even did the little sighs like in the movie - lol
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They finished and did a quick pose, also apologizing for not being able to stay for pictures with them
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Group Picture Large View (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-204p.jpg)

And here's the Vid Roxy shot of their performance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ee2Rz9PbLWk&feature=channel_video_title)

With that we were done with the Wizarding world, it being after 2pm with a big chunk of the park unexplored. Next stop, Jurassic Park!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 6 - Looking for a Do-you-think-he-saurus (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40859278&postcount=102)

Trentmom

04-23-2011, 09:28 PM

Performers looked like they put on a good show

Butterbeer sounds good. I will have to try that sometime :goodvibes

mermaid764

04-23-2011, 10:00 PM

Wow what amazing details they put into everything, how neat that they had all those performers and your pics and video turned out great!

Looking forward to hearing about Jurassic Park:goodvibes

mnmrmustard

04-23-2011, 10:41 PM

Performers looked like they put on a good show

Butterbeer sounds good. I will have to try that sometime :goodvibes

They put on a great show, we very much enjoyed it. Yes, gotta do the butterbeer. We found a knockoff recipie online that we're tempted to try ;)

Wow what amazing details they put into everything, how neat that they had all those performers and your pics and video turned out great!

Looking forward to hearing about Jurassic Park:goodvibes

Yes, I wish it was bigger, but what they do have they've done well :)

Thank you on the pics and vid, we have a vid from the Jurassic park area too :goodvibes

lovebuzzandwoody

04-24-2011, 11:27 AM

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 05:01 PM

All caught up! :goodvibes

I always say I don't want to go to Disney without my kids and then I read a "adults only" TR and I start thinking about it again! :lmao:

I am enjoying your WWoHP pics immensely! We were going to include Uni in our upcoming trip just for Harry (we're BIG fans!) but we decided not to. We'll wait and do a long weekend later when hopefully the crowds die down a little bit. I can see by your pics that has not happened yet! LOTSA people!!

Looking forward to some skeery dino pics!

Going without the kids certainly has its upside, nothing to worry about but each other and we were able to linger where we wanted and skip what we didn't think was important. We won't do it again while the kids are still kids, but it was a great "one-off" :thumbsup2

As far as the crowds, this was a Thursday and we went back to Universal on a Sunday - the Sunday was much less crowded, go figure :confused:

Dino pics coming up directly! :yay:

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 05:10 PM

We left the Wizarding World via the back exit by Hogwarts. Leaving there made me wonder if you can get in that way when they have the front entrance blocked off. Hmmmm. We crossed an area of the lagoon that looked very peaceful
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And on into…
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You can almost hear the theme music playing, can’t you? We stopped off to rest in a little outdoor beverage stand. I scouted ahead and found the Discovery Center, which acts as a restaurant/shop on the top floor, and an exhibit/interactive center on the bottom floor.

I went back to Roxy and together we moved in to the Discovery Center and the joy of air conditioning. We went in through the gift shop and passed the food court to the elevator. I took a shot of this little fellow on the way.
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We went downstairs to take in the exhibits. We had been in here in 2002 and had been bummed that there hadn’t been any births while we were there. We must have had some good mojo going this time, because something started happening right after we walked up.
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Here is the video of the little cutie coming into the world (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39Y98phWVxQ)

After the birth we cruised past some other exhibits
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Then we headed back out into the heat. At least with this area’s theming it was more appropriate to have all that heat and humidity.
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We made a beeline for the Jurassic Park ride; again they have free lockers for you to put your stuff in while you ride. And who here thinks I packed away my camera? Hehe, you got it – it came with me ;-D On to the ride!

Through the gates.
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Big old long neck right out of the gate
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He was followed by a little guy
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I think this guy needed a breath mint
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Then we had these guys pop out of the water
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Then we took our “wrong turn” into the Raptor Containment Area
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Coming up – danger close!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 7 – Here There Be Raptors! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40859352&postcount=103)

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 05:16 PM

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The boat, she is wrecked!
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The little guys were fighting over the remains of some unfortunate soul
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We start to turn the corner
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There be something in there!
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Into the tunnel!
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Nobody in the control room
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Did you hear something?
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Aaahhhhh!!!!
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Up top and something is behind those boxes!
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We turned the corner for the big finale and I got in a bit of trouble for still having a camera out from a lady in a control tower. She called me out “you, the guy in the second row – put down the camera!” LOL

I put down the camera, we ducked the big dino, and down we went! Here’s what it looks like from the other side:
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And yes, I did get a bit of the splash from the second boat coming down. But it was worth it.

It just so happened that the splashdown area was next to a restaurant so we went in and had some dinner. The liquid lunch had worn off and I was HUNGRY and so was Roxy. I had a bacon cheeseburger and Roxy had ribs. We split each meal and had half of each.

After our food settled we walked on, stopping for a quick photo op
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Then it was on to Toon Lagoon
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Next up, we stroll through Toon Lagoon and get into some Marvel Mayhem!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 8 – Toon in to a Marvel-ous Time (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40862083&postcount=109)

lovebuzzandwoody

04-24-2011, 05:17 PM

:lmao: We're watching Jurassic Park on TNT right now!

What a fun ride! Do you get really wet on it? Like Splash or Kali? Just curious.

kaoden39

04-24-2011, 05:18 PM

Mike, I don't want to alarm you but I think there is a dinosaur following you.:scared1:

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 06:24 PM

:lmao: We're watching Jurassic Park on TNT right now!

What a fun ride! Do you get really wet on it? Like Splash or Kali? Just curious.

Cool! Yes, it is a fun ride - and since everyone was over at Harry Potter it was only a 5 minute wait to ride it :woohoo: It is a lot like Splash as far as the wet factor and very much depends on what row you sit in. Row two is a good one for a light sprinkle. Row 1 and the back get the brunt of it.

Mike, I don't want to alarm you but I think there is a dinosaur following you.:scared1:

Amazing how stealthy they can be given their size - lol :rotfl2:

kaoden39

04-24-2011, 07:26 PM

Now I am scared!:scared1: Stealth dinosaurs!!:rotfl:

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 09:10 PM

Now I am scared!:scared1: Stealth dinosaurs!!:rotfl:

For sure! :scared1: :rotfl: :scared1:

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 09:11 PM

As I said before, it was on to Toon Lagoon, home to Ripsaw Falls log ride and Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges, the two big Wet rides in the park. We rode them last time and it was too late and we were too tired for us to get soaked.

Dudley’s certainly shot up lots of water
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We passed Wossamotta U
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And headed into the mayhem
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Very busy and colorful place
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Toon Lagoon Panorama Large (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-259p.jpg)

Nice spot for the kids too run through and cool down
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We both stopped off at this balloon and sent phone pics to our girls
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We followed the crowds past the shops and the game booths out of the Toon area
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We crossed the bridge into the Marvel area
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Our first stop was the Spiderman ride. This ride was totally state of the art and hadn’t been open that long when we came through in 2002. At that time the line wait was around the 90 minute timeframe we had to get on the Harry Potter ride. Now it had a 10 minute wait :D

We went inside and were greeted by J. Jonah Jameson
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Ye ole Daily Bugle
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Down towards the press room
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Copy desks
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The Bugle’s version of motivational posters
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Reporter’s cubicle
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Late breaking news about the bad guys
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Coffee and donuts anyone?
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Trophy cases
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The bad guys were doing bad things on the big screen
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J. Jonah still doesn’t like spidey
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Nice warning sign
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No pics on the ride itself, it is all quick movement and projection screens in 3-D, so I just sat back and enjoyed the ride with Roxy.

Click her to view the next chapter: Day 2 Part 9 – Are we Doomed??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40862135&postcount=110)

mnmrmustard

04-24-2011, 09:16 PM

Our next stop was Dr. Doom’s Fear Fall
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His car I guess
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Shots inside Dr. Doom’s lair
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Fun free-fall ride, quite a blast and higher than I thought it was. It gave a pretty good view of the park from up there. Again not the right ride to have a camera on though so no pics from up there.

The Dr. Doom ride empties out on a game arcade along the lines of what you’d see at a Chuck E Cheeses. We took a pic of the giant claw machine since Bean loves them.
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Didn’t play it though, our batteries were running low. So we headed on to the Hulk coaster.
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It was just before 7pm and we had a 7:15pm Mears shuttle bus to catch but the line wait was only 10 minutes. It was quite a blast to ride but once was plenty for both of us.

We worked our way off of the Islands, weaving through the shops
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-292.JPG

I think monkeys live up there
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-293.JPG

Loved the architecture, felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-294.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-295.JPG

Here’s the tower as seen from the base
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-296.JPG

Large shot of Tower (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-259p.jpg)

Headed out and made the bus without having to hustle. Very nice to be able to plop down in that air conditioned bus. On the way home there was a great sunset.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-297.JPG

After we got back to the room I motored down to the food court and refilled the mugs we purchased the night before. Gotta keep hydrated! We called back home and checked in with the fam. Mom was still in the hospital but was breathing better as long as she was on O2. We found out that Bean had stayed home with a bad stomach too.

We said our good-nights and took showers and were in bed by 9pm – w00t! :cloud9:

Tomorrow takes us to EPCOT and the Flower and Garden Festival! :yay:

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 1 - Roundabout to EPCOT (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40961928&postcount=117)

disneygeeks

04-27-2011, 12:11 PM

The spider-man ride is such a great ride and lots of fun. Did Roxy like it or was it to much for her?

mnmrmustard

04-27-2011, 05:18 PM

The spider-man ride is such a great ride and lots of fun. Did Roxy like it or was it to much for her?

Yes, it is very fun still. Roxy had forgotten a lot of it and had a very good time on it. I love the part where you free fall and then Spidey catches you with his webs :-]

Trentmom

04-27-2011, 05:25 PM

mnmrmustard

04-27-2011, 06:07 PM

I see I was behind a few updates

All caught up now

Dinosaur hatching looks so cool

Love toon world. Those two water rides get you so soaked as you know. Even though they are cool, hated being that wet :scared1:

Hulk ride is awesome!!! The only roller coaster I have ever gotten on and when I gotten off, could not walk straight

good times :laughing:

Yeah, I wanted to get through that first full day and share the fun! Now I'm buried in EPCOT pictures and notes, hope to get something up on that this weekend.

Yeah, I was so happy to finally see one being born - had to wait 9 years for it!

When we were there in 2002 i rode Ripsaw Falls log ride but copped out on the other one, knowing it would completely soak you. I was glad I didn't, Bean and I shot at them from the Popeye boat with the little water cannons as they went by. They all came back completely soaked. Nothing worse than walking a park with soaked undies.

Hulk was a blast but I still like RnRC better ;)

Marshay

04-29-2011, 11:24 AM

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 12:59 PM

All caught up!

I haven't seen the living statues at DTD either. We'll look for them. I remember them in Epcot -- Italy, I think and loved them as a kid.

WoD is such a great store -- I love all the photo you took. Most people just shop and never look up -- it's incredible up there!

It's been a long time since we went to Universal. I'm loving all your pictures as it brings back good memories.

The detail of HP is great -- and thanks for taking all those photos!! I feel like I was there.

It does look super-duper crowded though. I watched the video of the mandrakes and village and it looked like it was all just filled with bodies!

Too funny about spiderman being a 10 minute wait -- we went about 2002/2003, too and were blown away by the ride and had a long wait.

Can't wait to see F&G festival photos so I know what to look for -- I'll be there in about 2 weeks!!!

Hey Marsha!

Well glad we got to see one of those statues, she was very good.

In WoD and everywhere else I'm all about looking up, down and all around and take pics of everything! I leave the shopping to Roxy ;)

Thank you on the Universal pics, it was so much fun! I can't see going back to WDW without spending at least one day at US too. Yes, quite the crush of people. It was a lot better when we went back on Sunday. Go figure that a weekend would be less crowded than a Thursday :confused3

Yup, Spidey is still cool but can't compete with Harry Potter.

Well it took me all weekend but I got through all of the pics from EPCOT. Whittled it down to only ...brace yourselves ...379 pictures :lmao::rotfl2::lmao::rotfl2::lmao:

I'll start posting now but it'll be coming out in *does quick math* 16 parts due to all the pics :thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 01:17 PM

We both slept hard but slept well and got a full 10hrs! Mickey woke us up at 7am and we went through the morning get up and get ready stuff. Lots of sunscreen as it was actually supposed to be a bit hotter today! We headed down to the food court at about 8am and had a nice breakfast of croissant sandwiches and spuds.

We made it out to the shuttle area and found the one to EPCOT packed with no bus in sight. Right next door was an MK bus just finishing loading and only half full. Roxy suggested we just jump on it and use the monorail to get to EPCOT. Love that woman!

We had a leisurely trip to MK. As we approached the front gate we passed the monorail
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-298.JPG

And then through the front gate
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-299.JPG

We strolled past the boat landing; you can see the masses flowing towards the gate.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-300.JPG

We weaved through them and on up the monorail ramp. I saw as we walked that there were several others who had the same idea :D We got on and had a great view of the Grand Floridian as we headed out
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-301.JPG

We did a quick stop at the Contemporary and then were on to the TTA. I love the setup; just walk down a ramp and around, right up to the EPCOT monorail, which was waiting for us. There was a serene little bit of beach there that looked like it would be a good picnic spot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-302.JPG

Once on board we passed back by the MK gates
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-303.JPG

The trip between parks is so leisurely and serene - I just love the monorail! Soon enough we came around a bend and got a good look at Spaceship Earth and the monorail stop
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-304.JPG

We glided over the park and looked down at the people flowing into the park. The gates had opened about 10 minutes prior.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-305.JPG

Love that Big Happy Ball
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-306.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-307.JPG

We wound our way around and had a great view of the Mickey Heads in front of the lagoon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-308.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-309.JPG

We could see that there were already a lot of people making a bee-line for World Showcase, which was my focus for this day.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-310.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-311.JPG

Ahhh, EPCOT in spring!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-312.JPG

First look at the Butterfly tent
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-313.JPG

The monorail swung back around past Spaceship Earth
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-314.JPG

The sun was just peeking around the sphere
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-315.JPG

Looking down we could see the Toy Story 3 topiaries
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-316.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-317.JPG

We came in to the station and headed down the long ramps towards the entrance gates. Security and entrance went quick and soon enough we were there in front of Buzz and SE!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-318.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-319.JPG

The whole TS3 crew with SE
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-320.JPG

Lots-O smiled down on us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-321.JPG

And there was Woody
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-322.JPG

Oop, at the photo limit already. Coming up, I take my first journey through Spaceship Earth!

Click here for the next chapter: Day 3 Part 2 – Into Spaceship Earth! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40962846&postcount=119)

rachel09985

05-02-2011, 01:35 PM

Love all of the Universal and HP pics!! We are heading there in June and I am stoked about going there!!! I haven't been there in like 18 years!!

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 02:17 PM

Ran out of room before, so Buzz gets to top this segment
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-323.JPG

Roxy walked ahead as I kept madly snapping pics :D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-324.JPG

I caught up to her and we took in some more TS3 Topiary
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-325.JPG

And got our picture taken again :-]
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-326.JPG

Now I know what you’re thinking. “Mike, you haven’t taken enough pics of SE!?!” Okay, okay, if you insist ;-]
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-328.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-329.JPG

If you’ve been on it you know the line winds around both sides of SE. Roxy waited through the first part of the line while I found a restroom. When I came in she found a shady spot off to the side and I went through the ‘sunny side’ of the line. It went quick and I didn’t notice the heat because I was on my smart phone catching up on my TR notes – lolol

Roxy got up when I was about to head up the center lane into SE and we headed in to the welcome air conditioning. It wasn’t long before we were in our car and heading up. You can kind of see us in the screen to the right.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-331.JPG

We started our travels through time
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-332.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-333.JPG

Egypt was upon us before we knew it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-334.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-335.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-336.JPG

The Greeks and Romans quickly followed
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-337.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-338.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-339.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-340.JPG

But all things must end and Rome falls
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-341.JPG

The Middle East goes by
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-343.JPG

And we head into the middle ages
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-344.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-345.JPG

Scribes hard at work
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-346.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-347.JPG

The written word grows
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-348.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-349.JPG

Crafty fellow isn’t he?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-350.JPG

Next up, more SE!

Click here for the next chapter: Day 3 Part 3 – Time Keeps Spinning in SE (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40962929&postcount=120)

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 02:23 PM

Back on board SE!

As we march on we see artisans flourishing
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-351.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-352.JPG

Play that funky music!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-353.JPG

A little off the top please
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-354.JPG

Do you think he gets paid by the hour?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-355.JPG

We jump forward a couple of hundred years to the industrial revolution
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-356.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-357.JPG

“Can I quote you on that?”
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-358.JPG

Pennsylvania six-five thousand
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-359.JPG

Movies!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-360.JPG

Radio!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-361.JPG

The nuclear family
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-362.JPG

70s science
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-364.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-365.JPG

The PC is born!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-366.JPG

The world!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-367.JPG

Ooooo, pretty lights!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-368.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-369.JPG

Wish I had better focus for these. Hi everybody!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-370.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-371.JPG

Yummy Breakfast
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-372.JPG

Off to work!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-373.JPG

The End
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-374.JPG

Where are we?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-375.JPG

There we are!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-376.JPG

Next up, let’s find us some Topiary!!! *he says in his most manly voice*

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 4 – Topiary and Fairies Galore! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40964341&postcount=124)

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 02:28 PM

Love all of the Universal and HP pics!! We are heading there in June and I am stoked about going there!!! I haven't been there in like 18 years!!

Hello Rachel and welcome! I'm glad you're enjoying them and I know you'll have a blast there! So much to do and see and so much fun to have :goodvibes

lovebuzzandwoody

05-02-2011, 02:43 PM

We're missing the F&G by 6 lousy days! :mad: Oh well... a girl can't have everything, I suppose! :rolleyes:

Very nice update! I love SE!

Marshay

05-02-2011, 02:43 PM

Loving the F&G photos!!

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 04:02 PM

We headed out of SE and had to have a little mini pow-wow. Roxy’s ankles had been swelling and by this morning had gotten pretty bad. We made the decision that it was time to get a scooter. I went down and picked one up and met her with it by the restrooms near SE. It was doubly nice in that she was able to rest her legs AND we had a basket to carry all of our stuff in!

We moved forward and ran straight into Daisy (getting the little pixie in front of her was just a bonus – she was sporting some very cute shades)
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-377.JPG

Roxy got her pic taken at a Disney picnic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-378.JPG

Donald and I were very welcoming
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-379.JPG

We went hunting for Stitch next and came across these cool flowers
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-380.JPG

…and then found Stitch hiding in the bushes near Mission: Space
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-381.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-382.JPG

We had already decided that we weren’t going to do any of the Future World “thrill rides” and instead concentrate on World showcase. So we turned away from Mission: Space and Test Track. And yes, we even decided to skip Soarin’ this time. We rode it so many times on our 2009 trip to DLR that we were fine with that. So we looked back at the Topiary map and ended up backtracking a bit. Pretty day, aye?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-383.JPG

The next set of topiaries were part of a Pixie Hollow theme. As we were walking (and rolling) towards the fairy area we saw our first butterflies
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-384.JPG

I thought the space age birds’ nests were pretty cool
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-385.JPG

Then it was time to say hello to the fairies – first Rosetta (and I should say at this point that Rosetta was the only one that I knew by name other than Tink so I had to cheat and look at their website to find out their names ;-] ).
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-386.JPG

Then Silvermist – she of course had a misty little pond to play in
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-387.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-388.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-389.JPG

Terence waved at us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-390.JPG

Who was it that lived in a shoe?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-391.JPG

Some of them wanted to take flight
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-391b.JPG

The Hollow
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-392.JPG

Fawn was very playful
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-393.JPG

And of course the star of the show – Tinker bell
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-394.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-395.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-396.JPG

Another cute little house
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-397.JPG

The pixie tree
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-398.JPG

Such creative little fairies
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-399.JPG

Vidia waved at us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-400.JPG

More topiaries to come!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 5 – Pooh says there are Flowers and Butterflies Here (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40964455&postcount=126)

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 04:05 PM

We're missing the F&G by 6 lousy days! :mad: Oh well... a girl can't have everything, I suppose! :rolleyes:

Very nice update! I love SE!

Well that bites! Hopefully they'll still have some of the stuff up for you. At least you can get a picture tour from me - I think I got all of them :thumbsup2

Loving the F&G photos!!

Thankyee! Here comes the next batch :lmao:

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 04:11 PM

I caught a panorama of the lagoon looking towards the monorail track and World Showcase
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-401.JPG

Here is the big panorama for the lagoon (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-401p.JPG)

Iridessa was the last fairy we came across
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-402.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-403.JPG

I wonder if this was her house.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-404.JPG

We then came into the plaza in front of the main walkway to World Showcase. A Photopass photographer had just set up so I got another pic with my sweetie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-405.JPG

That area was taken up by Pooh characters. First we had the big guy himself
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-406.JPG

Then Eeyore and Piglet
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-407.JPG

Tigger
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-408.JPG

And finally Rabbit with his carrots
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-409.JPG

We wheeled towards the butterfly exhibit and caught a monorail heading towards Future World
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-410.JPG

Here is the big panorama that shot (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-410p.JPG)

I love this shot, such a cool mix of the colorful flowers and the modern architecture and monorail :-]
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-411.JPG

Then we were in the butterfly exhibit and were immediately greeted by Bambi, Thumper, and Flower
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-412.JPG

Butterflies hatching
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-413.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-414.JPG

A little black and yellow one
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-415.JPG

Aren’t they pretty?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-416.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-418.JPG

Pre-butterflies
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-419.JPG

Empty chrysalis
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-420.JPG

We headed out the back of the tent and came across a choir performance. They were pretty good – I felt for them standing and performing in direct sunlight on such a hot day.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-421.JPG

Last shot of Future World before heading to World Showcase
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-422.JPG

The first thing we saw as we headed towards the pavilions was this cool sand sculpture built to advertise the African Cats movie by Disney Nature
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-423.JPG

Amazing large view of the Sand Sculpture (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-423p.JPG)

One of the sides of it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-424.JPG

From then we were in pavilion proper. We decided to start counter-clockwise and hit Canada first. We checked for our Le Cellier reservations with the CM outside but she didn’t have the list going far enough out to show us (we had a 1:30pm lunch scheduled there). We decided to skip O Candada! And just snapped a couple of pics as we walked
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-425.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-426.JPG

Next up we enter English country – did we see the prince and princess? No, but we did see some other British royalty.

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 6 – Brits and Beauties (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40981364&postcount=141)

kaoden39

05-02-2011, 06:17 PM

Oh I love it. I was starting to waver on going and now I am leaning back towards WDW. Thank you.:goodvibes

Marshay

05-02-2011, 06:40 PM

kaoden39

05-02-2011, 06:45 PM

Loving all th F&G photos!! I can't wait to see them in 12 days!!! I'm getting excited seeing all your photos!

michele -- if you ever can go to WDW, do it!!! WDW is so amazing. They only negative is that you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner and when you can go again.:thumbsup2

It's just that it seems so daunting to plan it and all. I love Disneyland a lot so I at times waffle and want to go there.

Trentmom

05-02-2011, 07:37 PM

What a great update

Loving all your pics

Topiaries are awesome

Have not been to F&G Festival since 2007 and think a trip back during May is in order in future :thumbsup2

Hope the scooter helped Roxy's ankle to feel better :goodvibes

lovebuzzandwoody

05-02-2011, 07:42 PM

Well that bites! Hopefully they'll still have some of the stuff up for you. At least you can get a picture tour from me - I think I got all of them :thumbsup2

Yep, it sure does. But you are right... your pics are the next best thing! :goodvibes

I love the fairies! So pretty!

mermaid764

05-02-2011, 09:14 PM

Wow the toparies are amazing! Disney does such a good job of putting them all together.

Can't wait to hear what you guys think of Le Cellier:goodvibes

mnmrmustard

05-02-2011, 11:22 PM

Oh I love it. I was starting to waver on going and now I am leaning back towards WDW. Thank you.:goodvibes

Well by the time I'm done posting from my days here I'll have you completely sold! :goodvibes

Loving all th F&G photos!! I can't wait to see them in 12 days!!! I'm getting excited seeing all your photos!

michele -- if you ever can go to WDW, do it!!! WDW is so amazing. They only negative is that you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner and when you can go again.:thumbsup2

Under two weeks, time is really zooming now isn't it? I'll get some more posted either tonight or in the morning.

And I agree with everything Marsha says :rotfl:

It's just that it seems so daunting to plan it and all. I love Disneyland a lot so I at times waffle and want to go there.

I love DLR and it is an easy decision for us west-coasters - it will always have that special bit of magic that comes with being Walt's first baby. But despite the extra time in planning and the expense to get you there, WDW is just amazing.

The total experience of being on property and being immersed in the resorts and parks and even the busses and boats and of course the longer monorail runs. Add in the water parks and an expanded DTD, shake in some special rides like RnRC and classic shows like the Country Bear Jamboree and you're knee deep in the magic :wizard:

What a great update

Loving all your pics

Topiaries are awesome

Have not been to F&G Festival since 2007 and think a trip back during May is in order in future :thumbsup2

Hope the scooter helped Roxy's ankle to feel better :goodvibes

Thank you so much Kelly! Are there a bunch of different topiaries from when you were there or are you seeing some of the same stuff?

Yes, the scooter made a huge difference. I can't imagine how bad off her ankles would have been if she had tried to walk it that day.

Yep, it sure does. But you are right... your pics are the next best thing! :goodvibes

I love the fairies! So pretty!

:goodvibes

Wow the toparies are amazing! Disney does such a good job of putting them all together.

Can't wait to hear what you guys think of Le Cellier:goodvibes

They do an amazing job, I've seen topiaries before, but nothing even close to what they did with theirs. Just goes to show that no matter what the media, Disney hires the best when it comes to presenting their art.

Well I'm tuckered out so the next update will have to happen tomorrow - and yes, it will include my review of Le Cellier ;)

Leger13

05-03-2011, 07:39 AM

I'm here I'm here! Now to catch up!

Leger13

05-03-2011, 08:12 AM

First post ~ omg about Roxy’s Mom going into the hospital just before y’all left! Yikes!!!! And I can’t believe she thought her and the girls could hold the fort down until y’all returned. Good thinking on y’alls part not believing her! I’m glad you still made it out though and at the end of the first post are safely at your hotel before your flight the next morning! Yay

Day 1 ~ yay for uneventful flights and YAY for finally making it to your resort! The CM that checked you in looks like fun. I love great CM’s!!! We stay in the 50’s section almost every time we stay at Pop. The showers are handicap accessable at Pop in ALL the rooms with King beds. Love it!!! I’m glad it seems like they were done working on that building while y’all were there. They were still working on it when we were there last July and they started banging and sawing EARLY in the morning! Being uncomfortable and pregnant at the time made for one unhappy lady LOL.

I LOVE DTD at night. Have you guys started collecting/trading pins? I need to look into getting a lot from eBay for Alex for our December trip.

That living statue looks kinda creepy!

Day 2 ~ for some reason your links past day 1 aren’t working for me. Arg!! I’m gonna have to scroll through and look for updates and I’ll be back with more comments.

dekkerdisneydreamer

05-03-2011, 08:52 AM

Hi Mike and Roxy,
We were at WDW at the same resort! DH and I were there 4/3 to 4/7, so we only overlapped for a day.:goodvibes

I love all of your Wizarding World photos! What a neat looking place! I would love to be able to get there someday. Sadly, DH is WDW focused while we are in Orlando!:rotfl:

Congrats on getting a surprise trip for your birthday! It makes me think of all the WDW commercials where kids are surprised the morning of with their trips and the reactions on their faces. Was your reaction slightly similar?:yay:

kaoden39

05-03-2011, 01:22 PM

Country Bear Jamboree and the People Mover. Both rides are rides I would love to have back in Disneyland.

mnmrmustard

05-03-2011, 02:35 PM

I'm here I'm here! Now to catch up!

Hooray!

First post ~ omg about Roxy’s Mom going into the hospital just before y’all left! Yikes!!!! And I can’t believe she thought her and the girls could hold the fort down until y’all returned. Good thinking on y’alls part not believing her! I’m glad you still made it out though and at the end of the first post are safely at your hotel before your flight the next morning! Yay

Yeah, it was pretty crazy. A lot of stress and just wondering what was going to happen. I had purchased trip insurance via AAA when we reserved and there were a couple of moments that I almost had to call and reschedule everything!

And I think this was a BIG wake-up call for MiL that she can't take care of herself now and that she needs adults around to help out and deal with issues that come up.

Yes, it was good to get there and make it to the hotel, but I still didn't feel like the trip was really happening until we were in the air.

Day 1 ~ yay for uneventful flights and YAY for finally making it to your resort! The CM that checked you in looks like fun. I love great CM’s!!! We stay in the 50’s section almost every time we stay at Pop. The showers are handicap accessable at Pop in ALL the rooms with King beds. Love it!!! I’m glad it seems like they were done working on that building while y’all were there. They were still working on it when we were there last July and they started banging and sawing EARLY in the morning! Being uncomfortable and pregnant at the time made for one unhappy lady LOL.

Amen! And the CM was a kick, lots of fun despite having a thick accent. That is so cool that all of the king rooms have accessable showers. Yikes, glad they had finished too - I wouldn't have liked to have woken up to hammers and saws :sad2: I'm sure you were pretty p-o'd over that.

I LOVE DTD at night. Have you guys started collecting/trading pins? I need to look into getting a lot from eBay for Alex for our December trip.

That living statue looks kinda creepy!

Day 2 ~ for some reason your links past day 1 aren’t working for me. Arg!! I’m gonna have to scroll through and look for updates and I’ll be back with more comments.

DTD night was fun even though we were tired. Yes, we've been trading pins since the 2008 trip. But this was so last minute we didn't have time to order any. We looked through what we had and were able to stock up one lanyard with about 15 pins. We saved it for the EPCOT day, you can see me wearing it there. We pretty much only traded that one day. Next time we'll be ready!

Yes, living statue was a bit creepy and beautiful at the same time.

OOPS! Thank you for letting me know about the links. I had copy/pasted the code for each one and pasted in an error. All fixed now!

Hi Mike and Roxy,
We were at WDW at the same resort! DH and I were there 4/3 to 4/7, so we only overlapped for a day.:goodvibes

I love all of your Wizarding World photos! What a neat looking place! I would love to be able to get there someday. Sadly, DH is WDW focused while we are in Orlando!:rotfl:

Congrats on getting a surprise trip for your birthday! It makes me think of all the WDW commercials where kids are surprised the morning of with their trips and the reactions on their faces. Was your reaction slightly similar?:yay:

Hi there! That is so cool that you were there too! Which section were you in? We were in 50s, room 3303. Too bad we weren't able to plan a DISmeet.

Thank you on the Wizarding photos - show them to your hubby, maybe that will convince him to go ;)

As far as the suprise, at first I thought she was yanking my chain. From there it was kind of a "WhooHoo!" followed immediately by "OMG, I have a lot to plan!!!". It was very fun and very exciting.

Country Bear Jamboree and the People Mover. Both rides are rides I would love to have back in Disneyland.

Agreed. I have heard rumors of them possibly bringing back the People Mover and DLR :-]

dekkerdisneydreamer

05-03-2011, 03:27 PM

Hi there! That is so cool that you were there too! Which section were you in? We were in 50s, room 3303. Too bad we weren't able to plan a DISmeet.
We were in the 70's building 10, near the Big Wheel. We stepped out our door and the giant foosball game was below us. I have to say that POP never disappoints!

Thank you on the Wizarding photos - show them to your hubby, maybe that will convince him to go ;)
Like for Roxy, it would totally be for me. Maybe the thrill rides would get his attention though.;)

As far as the suprise, at first I thought she was yanking my chain. From there it was kind of a "WhooHoo!" followed immediately by "OMG, I have a lot to plan!!!". It was very fun and very exciting.

I hope DH doesn't have a heart attack when I surprise him next year. I'm still trying to decide how to do it.... any ideas, throw them my way!:idea:

mnmrmustard

05-03-2011, 10:47 PM

We were in the 70's building 10, near the Big Wheel. We stepped out our door and the giant foosball game was below us. I have to say that POP never disappoints!

Like for Roxy, it would totally be for me. Maybe the thrill rides would get his attention though.

I hope DH doesn't have a heart attack when I surprise him next year. I'm still trying to decide how to do it.... any ideas, throw them my way!:idea:

Loved that Big Wheel - my last night there I rolled around and took night pics of all of the big stuff including the foosball court and Big Wheel. POP RULES!

I can understand you wanting to immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter, it was very cool. Look forward to a bunch more pics of it. And if he likes the thrill rides the Dueling Dragons and the Harry Potter ride are totally top notch. Add in the Jurassic Park ride, the Hulk coaster, and the Spiderman ride and he should be sold!

I'm sure he'll be suprised! Are you the planner of the family or is he?

mnmrmustard

05-03-2011, 10:50 PM

We moved on from the Canada pavilion and into English country. The first sight we saw the palace
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-427.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-428.JPG

Large view of the Palace (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-428p.JPG)

I did wonder why they had such a big architectural presence with no real interaction with it …unless there was an interaction/tour that I missed.

We moved on into the village area, I liked the feel of this area. Kind of down home in an English sort of way.

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-429.JPG

English Village Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-429p.JPG)

The pub looked inviting but we had Le Cellier coming up and I wanted to be hungry and thirsty for it.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-430.JPG

We knew we would be back through here due to the reses so we skipped the shops and continued on. The tea cup garden was cute.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-431.JPG

Across from them was a cool Peter Pan topiary
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-432.JPG

Pan was at the ready
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-433.JPG

Hook was challenging him as usual
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-434.JPG

And the croc was just biding his time
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-435.JPG

There were lots of ducks wandering around
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-436.JPG

We kept strolling on towards France
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-437.JPG

Cool waterway, I saw a boat launch at one point – does anyone know where it goes?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-438.JPG

Down towards the bridge we ran into royalty
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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-440.JPG

They had company across the way
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We crossed the bridge and ran into an Aristocat
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-443.JPG

We came across Beauty and the Beast
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-444.JPG

…and the rest of the cast
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-445.JPG

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Right next to them was a real live princess – bring on Aurora!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-448.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-449.JPG

After getting pics with the princess we found a shady spot and I made another call to reservations. We re-confirmed the Le Cellier rese and tried again for the dessert fireworks Wishes show. Le Cellier was good but still no dice with the fireworks event. From there we continued into the French village.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-451.JPG

I was surprised that you couldn’t actually approach the Eiffel tower. Next up we travel to the Middle East and then the Far East.

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 7 – We Take a Trek to the Eastern Continent (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40995298&postcount=151)

dekkerdisneydreamer

05-04-2011, 07:44 AM

lovebuzzandwoody

05-04-2011, 03:13 PM

The boats go to Boardwalk, Beach Club and the Swolphin. :goodvibes

*Jealous* that you saw Marie Kitty! We've never been so lucky. :rolleyes:

kaoden39

05-04-2011, 03:33 PM

I keep hearing that they are bringing the People Movers back but until Disney says that they are doing it and it actually starts I am not believing it.

I love the pictures from Epcot. That area interests me the most I think.

Trentmom

05-04-2011, 04:33 PM

Well by the time I'm done posting from my days here I'll have you completely sold! :goodvibes

Under two weeks, time is really zooming now isn't it? I'll get some more posted either tonight or in the morning.

And I agree with everything Marsha says :rotfl:

I love DLR and it is an easy decision for us west-coasters - it will always have that special bit of magic that comes with being Walt's first baby. But despite the extra time in planning and the expense to get you there, WDW is just amazing.

The total experience of being on property and being immersed in the resorts and parks and even the busses and boats and of course the longer monorail runs. Add in the water parks and an expanded DTD, shake in some special rides like RnRC and classic shows like the Country Bear Jamboree and you're knee deep in the magic :wizard:

Thank you so much Kelly! Are there a bunch of different topiaries from when you were there or are you seeing some of the same stuff?

Yes, the scooter made a huge difference. I can't imagine how bad off her ankles would have been if she had tried to walk it that day.

:goodvibes

They do an amazing job, I've seen topiaries before, but nothing even close to what they did with theirs. Just goes to show that no matter what the media, Disney hires the best when it comes to presenting their art.

Well I'm tuckered out so the next update will have to happen tomorrow - and yes, it will include my review of Le Cellier ;)

Well, Toy story and Fairies are definitely different

I do not remember seeing Pooh and friends

So plenty of new stuff to see :goodvibes

Trentmom

05-04-2011, 04:40 PM

Love the angle of the pic you took of the palace,....so neat looking

We got to meet Marie on our trip, she so cute :goodvibes

lovebuzzandwoody

05-04-2011, 04:44 PM

I love the pictures from Epcot. That area interests me the most I think.

Now World Showcase is one area of WDW that I would love to explore without my kids. There is so much to see and a lot of it doesn't particularly interest them so we always do kind of a run through. :rolleyes:

mnmrmustard

05-04-2011, 07:15 PM

It was our first time seeing F&G and I was very impressed! I loved all the topiaries and all the details that were put into place. I've seen many pictures before on the DIS, but they just don't do the festival justice. Your pictures brought back some very happy memories!:goodvibes

I am the planner of the family, by a longshot.:rotfl: I tell him what the plan is, give him time to add his input, and then we head off. I am spending a good amount of time on the cruise threads to get information. The TR's over there definitely provide some good advice. We are also taking our daughter who will be 22 months old at the time. I need to get her a passport, and in order to do so, BOTH parents need to be there. I understand the rules and they are in place for a reason, but doesn't the government know I'm trying to take my husband on a surprise cruise???:lmao::lmao::lmao:

I love the Moroccan Pavilion, so much stuff to see in there! Can't wait to see what pictures you've taken. http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Jackie_1947/Smileywithcamera.gif

Thank you very much about my captures of the topiaries, I very much enjoyed seeking them out and photographing them :)

If you're the planner that makes it a lot easier to suprise him, but the passport thing does throw a wrench in the works. I'll have to think on a possible excuse for you to use to get a wee one a passport without tipping your hat on the whole thing. I know the first thing he'd ask is "why?"

Morrocco pics coming up in a few :thumbsup2

The boats go to Boardwalk, Beach Club and the Swolphin. :goodvibes

*Jealous* that you saw Marie Kitty! We've never been so lucky. :rolleyes:

Ahhh, so that'd be a bonus of staying there for sure! TY for cluing me in ;)

I keep hearing that they are bringing the People Movers back but until Disney says that they are doing it and it actually starts I am not believing it.

I love the pictures from Epcot. That area interests me the most I think.

True enough, wait till we see a press release on it.

I agree as far as my interest, EPCOT was a prime focus for me on this trip.

Well, Toy story and Fairies are definitely different

I do not remember seeing Pooh and friends

So plenty of new stuff to see :goodvibes

Good to know that they change it up. One thing I did miss out on ...you'll see Lightning McQueen a bit later. He was supposed to be posed with Mater but they apparently had issues with how he was holding up and had to take him out :confused:

Love the angle of the pic you took of the palace,....so neat looking

We got to meet Marie on our trip, she so cute :goodvibes

Thank you, it was kind of a weird perspective, pure photoshop magic tying 4 different pictures together :thumbsup2

Now World Showcase is one area of WDW that I would love to explore without my kids. There is so much to see and a lot of it doesn't particularly interest them so we always do kind of a run through. :rolleyes:

Oh you have that completely right. Roxy and I spent a lot of time just taking it all in, our kids would have been bored stiff!

Trentmom

05-04-2011, 07:32 PM

mnmrmustard

05-04-2011, 11:55 PM

See you guys saying your kids don't care for world showcase. Trent has ball in there. I thought he be bored too

He loves the train near Germany I believe. Then there is a cool toy shop in UK.

Plus, Mexico is awesome. That is Trent's favorite country.

Took Trent into Japan I believe it was and he had ball in their shop. They have more cool toys in there

You never know what hidden gems the kids can find in there

:goodvibes

Well actually you may have a point there. Kyra's choice for her "mommy and me" day on our 2008 trip WAS EPCOT's World Showcase. And they had a good time there. Bean would be more of an issue since she is more of a pure thrillseeker.

Yes, there are some cool shops. I somehow missed the train :confused3 Both girls would spend a couple of hours (and one of my monthly paychecks) in the store in Japan!

We'll just have to see how future trips go.

mnmrmustard

05-04-2011, 11:59 PM

We continued through France with me still trying to find a route to the tower - lol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-452.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-453.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-454.JPG

Large Version of Parisian Storefronts (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-454p.JPG)

Roxy really liked the perfume-bottle shaped topiaries
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-455.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-456.JPG

As we left the France area we stumbled upon Belle!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-458.JPG

Next up was the Moroccan Pavilion. I had been intrigued about this area for years having heard about the stories of the King of Morocco and how he brought in his own artisans to build it. I was not disappointed with what I saw.

Aladdin greeted us.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-459.JPG

I loved the tiling on the fountain
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-461.JPG

…and of course the archway
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-462.JPG

The buildings were pretty cool
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-460.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-463.JPG

The bath house was amazing
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-464.JPG

Large Panorama of the Bath House (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-464p.JPG)

I had stayed back taking pictures while Roxy looked through the shop stalls. I walked through another archway past the came.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-465.JPG

…and came across this building
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-466.JPG

Which housed the Restaurant Marrakesh. It looked like a place I’d like to check out sometime
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-467.JPG

Past that was another beautiful mosaic fountain.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-468.JPG

We finished looking through the shops and headed out. I turned and took one more shot.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-469.JPG

From there it was on to Japan! The crowds weren’t bad through here at this point.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-470.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-471.JPG

We headed inwards and asked about the lady who does the sugar animal molding and found out that she wasn’t working today :-[

The pagodas looked pretty cool though
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-472.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-473.JPG

I really liked the statue, very powerful and regal.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-474.JPG

Next up we check out the world of Anime

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 8 – A Tour through Spirited Beasts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40995314&postcount=152)

mnmrmustard

05-05-2011, 12:03 AM

Day 3 Part 8 – A Tour through Spirited Beasts

We moved into an exhibit that I know my daughter Kyra would love. It covered Japanese art and anime and was called…
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-475.JPG

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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-490.JPG

We finished going through the exhibit and it said “it’s time!” What time was it? It was Le Cellier time – w00t! We weaved our way all the way back through the crowds, Morocco buzzed by, France was a blur, England went by in a flash, and BAM we were in Canada again! We checked in up top and headed down the path towards the entrance. We saw a mama duck and 8 baby chicks as we were walking. I took a bunch of pics and then looked at them and realized I still had my camera set for the extreme low light of the Japanese anime exhibit and they were all completely overexposed. Oh well, they were cute.

We walked in and were welcomed by the oh so well air conditioned reception area – ahhh! We checked in there and had a seat. While we waited I snapped this quick pic of the CMs working the desk. They were very focused on what another guest was saying.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-492.JPG

We were taken to our table within 5 minutes of coming in. We sat right next to one of the columns at a two person table which I really liked since it gave us a bit of privacy. I loved the lighting and intimate feel of the place. It was such a good place to decompress. Our waitress was very nice and got our drinks and was very helpful with the menu choices and how it worked with the dining plan. We got our drinks and bread sticks very quickly.

Roxy LOVED the pretzel breadsticks and I actually liked the whole grain flavor. She ordered the Heirloom Tomato Salad and I ordered the Steakhouse Caesar. Roxy and I both really liked them both. For entrees Roxy chose the Canadian "Prime" New York Strip and I had that signature Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon. These dishes were in Roxy’s words “Oh my God good.” For me each bite was amazing. We finished off with crème brulee for her and the chocolate moose for me.

Overall it officially counts as what I would want if I had to have a last meal on earth. Seriously, it was that good. I can’t see myself ever going to WDW again without a stop at this restaurant. We had great conversation, great food, great service – just a perfect lunch.

Coming up next we pass back through familiar country …or countries in this case ;-]

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 9 – The Brits Invade, the French find Balance, and the Japanese Drum! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41122265&postcount=160)

kaoden39

05-05-2011, 12:04 AM

I am so green with jealousy over you getting to see Belle in her blue dress. That is never going to happen in Disneyland.

GeminiAngel

05-05-2011, 03:46 PM

Jumping in! :goodvibes

Trentmom

05-05-2011, 08:04 PM

I enjoyed seeing your pics. I never walked through Morocco. Have to hit that up next time. Looks really cool

Meal at Le Cellier sounds so good. :goodvibes

DizNee Luver

05-05-2011, 09:29 PM

Mike I'm so glad you posted on my report so I could find out about your trip to WDW......absolutely stunning photos. I saw some other photos of the topiaries & was in awe of them.....thanx for sharing so many of them in your report!!!

I've never been to WDW, so I'm fascinated by your report & pics. Looking forward to seeing more!!

GeminiAngel

05-06-2011, 02:40 PM

All caught up! I'm planning a Universal visit on our next trip to the World.
I never saw the bath house in Morocco, just beautiful!
Great clear photos, what type of camera do you have?

mnmrmustard

05-15-2011, 05:58 PM

I am so green with jealousy over you getting to see Belle in her blue dress. That is never going to happen in Disneyland.

I hadn't even thought of that. She is always dressed up at DL isn't she?

Jumping in! :goodvibes

Welcome! Glad to have you along for my B-Day Fun!

I enjoyed seeing your pics. I never walked through Morocco. Have to hit that up next time. Looks really cool

Meal at Le Cellier sounds so good. :goodvibes

Thank you Kelly, it was a cool place to walk through and didn't take too much time out of the day. I missed Italy on this trip and now have to make time for it after hearing some of the things to see there. Always more to see I guess.

Yes, Le Cellier was the best! :thumbsup2

Mike I'm so glad you posted on my report so I could find out about your trip to WDW......absolutely stunning photos. I saw some other photos of the topiaries & was in awe of them.....thanx for sharing so many of them in your report!!!

I've never been to WDW, so I'm fascinated by your report & pics. Looking forward to seeing more!!

Yay Laurie! Thank you for joining my TR and I'm glad you are liking my pics. I have more topiaries to come!

All caught up! I'm planning a Universal visit on our next trip to the World.
I never saw the bath house in Morocco, just beautiful!
Great clear photos, what type of camera do you have?

Welcome, thank you for joining in :goodvibes I hope my Universal pics have helped you, I have more coming from our second day there.

The bath house is in the second building on the left as you're walking past the fountain. Thank you for the compliment on my photos. I'm using a 5 year old Canon Digital Rebel XS (10 megapixel) with the standard canon 18-55MM lens and a Tamron 28-75MM fast (f/2.8) lens.

My apologies to all for not posting anything for over a week - work and home have been a bit crazy. I'll get a good update posted in the next hour :)

kaoden39

05-15-2011, 06:05 PM

Nothing like real life interfering with trip reports.:rotfl:

mnmrmustard

05-15-2011, 07:45 PM

We wanted to stay in Le Cellier all day …or at least until we got hungry again. But since we couldn’t we made our way back up the path and thru the Canada Pavilion. We didn’t want to stop so again we missed ‘O Canada!’ again. We headed back towards England. As we got closer we could hear music playing. A Beatles tribute band was just starting to play. Their looks weren’t exact to the fab four but they sounded very good.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-493.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-494.JPG

I listened to a couple of songs while Roxy checked out some shops. I caught up with her and saw a bookshelf with some great references to Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-495.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-496.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-498.JPG

We then had a quick visit with a familiar friend
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-497.JPG

It was a fun interaction; we had a really good time with him.

We walked back out into the afternoon heat, it was really pressing down on us. We took it slow and walked back past Peter Pan and Captain Hook. Just before the bridge heading towards France we saw a Photopass photographer just setting up. She was very happy because there are three stations that they set up at and she got the one in the shade :-D She took a great shot of us with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-499.JPG

We crossed the bridges and I leaned over and took a shot of the artist’s nook on the water
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-500.JPG

As we came back into France proper we saw the balancing act going on
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-501.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-502.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-503.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-504.JPG

We managed to make it by the crowd before he completely wrapped up the show. I was leading the way, trying to avoid crowds and keep to the shade where possible. Back in Morocco we saw the belly dancer act going on
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-506.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-507.JPG

Just past him was Aladdin and Jasmine but they had already shut down their line. I got a couple of shots as they headed out
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-508.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-509.JPG

We continued on back to Japan. I actually got a shot of the arch without anyone in front of it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-510.JPG

As part of the Flower and Garden Festival they had a series of banzai trees set up in front of it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-511.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-512.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-513.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-517.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-518.JPG

From the fence where the little trees were I turned around and had a good view of the Pavilion.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-514.JPG

Large Panorama of the Japan Pavilion (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-514p.JPG)

As you can see we finally started to get some decent cloud cover. It upped the humidity but sure felt more bearable when the sun was behind them. We headed towards the tower.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-516.JPG

Once there we saw the Kodo Drummers setting up. It was hot standing out there to watch the show but it was very cool.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-519.JPG

I took a video of them drumming, sorry about the shaky quality - it was hot and I don't have the steadiest hand. CLICK HERE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI79MWoN-Ew) for it.

When they were done we needed to cool off so we went shopping. Both girls like Anime and Japanese culture so it was easy to find things for both of them. We bought Kyra a mini-kimono pajama set and Bean got a trio of Pokemon stuffies.

Next up we return to America and breeze past Italy on our way to a miniature world.

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 10 – America is Spirited, Italy is Tall, and Other Things are Small (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41123811&postcount=164)

mnmrmustard

05-15-2011, 07:46 PM

Nothing like real life interfering with trip reports.:rotfl:

Yeah, tell me about it!

kaoden39

05-15-2011, 07:50 PM

It looks so hot. I can't help but wonder if winter is the better time to visit.

mnmrmustard

05-15-2011, 09:23 PM

It looks so hot. I can't help but wonder if winter is the better time to visit.

We went in January of 2008 and it was great other than the last day, which got a little chilly. Most of our 11 days there was low to mid 80s. However, my wife's boss and his family went in January of 2010, which was unfortunately when they had that big freeze. They were pretty miserable.

But April traditionally isn't as hot as we had it, we just caught it during some uncommonly hot weather. It is a total dice roll I guess. I know that in general I would avoid it from about mid-May to mid-September due to the excessive heat and crowds. But we all do what we can for the sake of that Disney magic.

I would still go back in April again given the chance.

mnmrmustard

05-15-2011, 10:00 PM

We continued around counter-clockwise from Japan and found ourselves in the American Adventure Pavilion. We stopped by the big pin station they have there and found another one to trade. At this point we had traded out about half of our pins. They had topiaries here, which of course as part of an All-American theme were the classic characters. First up were Mickey and Minnie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-520.JPG

Then on the right wing of the building we found Goofy, Donald, and Pluto
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-521.JPG

Here’s a large shot of the three of them (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-521p.JPG)

Pluto looked very chipper
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-522.JPG

I’m not sure what was going on with Donald’s head
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-523.JPG

And Goofy was his normal goofy self
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-524.JPG

I got Roxy inside to the air conditioning and a CM saw my button and said that there was a call for me. He directed me to a phone off to the side just inside the entrance. Mickey and the gang wished me a very happy birthday! Love those extra bits of magic that Disney and the CMs throw in :-] Roxy stayed inside waiting for the singers to start. I went back out into the heat to catch the pipe and drum.

I only had to wait a few minutes and there they were marching up the street
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-525.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-526.JPG

CLICK HERE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4e9GhTLQrQ4) for a video of them marching in

They called the kids up to help with the pledge of allegiance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-527.JPG

Their leader was very energetic and seemed genuinely patriotic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-528.JPG

They did a couple of more songs and went on their way
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-529.JPG

I headed back inside and was directed upstairs to where ECV/Wheelchair patrons were to watch the show. To my surprise Roxy wasn’t there. I called her and didn’t get an answer. Just as I was starting to get worried I got a text from her that she was heading back from the bathroom. I saved us a spot on the rail looking down on the singers. Roxy rolled up just before they started.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-530.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-531.JPG

Here are some videos of them singing, they were very good

VIDEO #1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U22LzKJG7c) VIDEO #2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-Kj6Bgjs9w) VIDEO #3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha8eH07tJx0)

When they were done we were lead in and seated in the back row. Not the best placement or lighting to capture much.

Only got a shot of the statues
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-532.JPG

And Franklin and Twain on Liberty’s Torch
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-533.JPG

I liked the show very much. I’m a pretty patriotic guy. We left and it was my turn to make a pit stop. When I came out I missed Roxy and walked right by her …oops! We caught back up with each other and after stopping a couple of CMs to check out their pins we meandered on to the Italy Pavilion.

Cool architecture
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-534.JPG

They had Lady and the Tramp there. I continued to be amazed at the attention to detail they put into these things
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-535.JPG

I looked across and there was another great shot of Spaceship Earth and the lagoon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-536.JPG

Large version of the same shot (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-536p.JPG)

From that vantage I also had a good shot of the gondola. Do they ever do rides?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-537.JPG

Italy was a beautiful pavilion
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-539.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-538.JPG

Italy Pavilion Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-538p.JPG)

Just past Italy was a set of dioramas starting with a Tangled-themed Rapunzel’s tower
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-540.JPG

And an entire miniature village complete with several model trains running through it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-542.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-543.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-544.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-545.JPG

I love stuff like this, it brings back memories of a friend of mine whose dad had his whole garage dedicated to an intricate train set with mountains and valleys and villages and server trains. You could pop up in the landscape through hatches to make changes to stuff.

Next up we tackle then entire second half of World Showcase!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 11 – A German, Chinese, Norwegian, Mexican Smorgasbord of Adventure (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41137873&postcount=170)

kaoden39

05-15-2011, 10:04 PM

I could spend a long time looking at the miniature villages and the trains. I love the band and I would really enjoy that whole area. I am kind of silly that way I guess.

DizNee Luver

05-15-2011, 10:08 PM

More great pics Mike!!! Really making my mouth water to go to WDW....especially during the Flower & Garden time......beautiful!!

Trentmom

05-15-2011, 10:27 PM

Loving this update

Your photos in World Showcase are awesome!!!

I love the Pluto Topiary...He so cute :goodvibes

Wonder if they were in process of making Donald's hat and they had not shaped it yet? :confused3

cherbear

05-16-2011, 09:34 AM

Donald has a giant pimple on his head...quick...pop it before it explodes!!!!

Le Cellier is mine and Mike's absolute favorite dining spot in the world. And I don't mean the "world". I mean...out of anywhere we have EVER eaten. I kid you not.

Anywhere we ever have steak, we have to say "Nope, doesn't beat Le Cellier"

I absolutely cannot step on WDW property without having a meal there. It's wonderful.

mnmrmustard

05-16-2011, 03:28 PM

I could spend a long time looking at the miniature villages and the trains. I love the band and I would really enjoy that whole area. I am kind of silly that way I guess.

Me too, just so fascinating to see the detail they put into them. The band was fun, could have watched the whole show if I could have found some shade ;)

More great pics Mike!!! Really making my mouth water to go to WDW....especially during the Flower & Garden time......beautiful!!

Thank you Laurie, I loved it and will be going back again at this time of year :)

Loving this update

Your photos in World Showcase are awesome!!!

I love the Pluto Topiary...He so cute :goodvibes

Wonder if they were in process of making Donald's hat and they had not shaped it yet? :confused3

Thanks much Kelly, it was fun looking for all of the topiaries. Yes, Pluto was very cute. I don't know what was going on with Donald, very strange.

Donald has a giant pimple on his head...quick...pop it before it explodes!!!!

Le Cellier is mine and Mike's absolute favorite dining spot in the world. And I don't mean the "world". I mean...out of anywhere we have EVER eaten. I kid you not.

Anywhere we ever have steak, we have to say "Nope, doesn't beat Le Cellier"

I absolutely cannot step on WDW property without having a meal there. It's wonderful.

LOL, that sounds about right on Donald's head :lmao:

I'm on board with you and Mike. I'll compare every steak to theirs and will go there anytime we're in the Orlando area. Soooo gooooood!

mnmrmustard

05-16-2011, 11:28 PM

We left the small world of trains and towers and entered Bavaria!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-546.JPG

Large Shot of Bavaria (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-546p.JPG)

It was picturesque and did kick up some memories of my 2 ½ years stationed in Germany
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-547.JPG

But we were focused on spending some time indoors and sitting somewhere cool, and for us that meant tag-teaming Maelstrom and 3 Caballeros. We walked and rolled on to the other side of the pavilion and who did we see but Snow White. My character luck was again a bit off and her line was already closed too. But I did get a cute pic of her with a little princess.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-548.JPG

Right next to here was one of the coolest topiaries of the bunch – Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-549.JPG

Big Panorama of Snow White and the Guys (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-549p.JPG)

Next up was the Africa Pavilion, which had some of our Lion King pals playing around
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-550.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-551.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-552.JPG

We came across another CM and had her take a pic of us together
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-553.JPG

Has anyone else noticed that the Africa area is kind of “blink and you miss it?” We moved on to the China Pavilion, stopping only for a couple of pics and to check out the smaller shop next to the lagoon.

The Gates
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-554.JPG

The Palace
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-555.JPG

Big Shot of the Palace (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-555p.JPG)

Cute Panda Bears, aye?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-556.JPG

We were finally on to Norway!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-557.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-558.JPG

This goblin was a cutie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-559.JPG

More Norway
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-560.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-561.JPG

Viking Man!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-562.JPG

Viking yard sale?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-563.JPG

We were going to ride Maelstrom but it was unfortunately down. They said it would be back up soon but we didn’t want to wait around. Instead we headed on to Mexico. Once there I turned towards the lagoon and decided it was time for a BIG panorama!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-564.JPG

Big Lagoon Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-564p.JPG)

The Aztec Pyramid was very impressive
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-565.JPG

Their addition to the topiaries were tropical birds
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-566.JPG

We headed inside to the marketplace
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-567.JPG

We made a beeline for the Three Caballeros, stopping only to check out some CM’s pins. We jumped aboard and were soon floating in front of the indoor pyramid
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-568.JPG

The boys started the show
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-569.JPG

Donald moving through the video clips was very entertaining. Cool backdrops too.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-570.JPG

There’s that pic limit again. Next up we return to Nordic lands and say ‘hi’ to Lightning McQueen

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 12 – Loco Donald, Heavy Seas, and Lightning Strikes (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170151&postcount=183)

kaoden39

05-16-2011, 11:50 PM

There are so many things that are different in WDW aren't there? Wow.

I can see why people think that Disneyland is a little park when they go after visiting WDW.

cherbear

05-17-2011, 08:15 AM

oh that is such a bummer about Maelstrom!!! It's one of my favorite rides! I always thought it was "Awesome!" as a kid. And I still think so to this day....though I wish it had a few more drops, LOL

Your pictures are all great. I wish I had a panoramic computer screen to see those pics up close without scrolling :rotfl:

GeminiAngel

05-17-2011, 08:17 AM

I love the 3 caballeros! Donald is so funny.
The candy shop in Germany is my favorite because I can get Haribo Raspberries! Love those things.

Trentmom

05-17-2011, 06:01 PM

I love Mexico. My favorite country in the Showcase

You know what, I never knew there was an African section :rotfl2:

Great pics as usual :thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

05-17-2011, 06:03 PM

There are so many things that are different in WDW aren't there? Wow.

I can see why people think that Disneyland is a little park when they go after visiting WDW.

Yes, it is a whole different experience. But that is part of the charm of DL, it is a little easier to take in. You really have to gear up and be ready to go and go and go and go some more when you go to WDW!

oh that is such a bummer about Maelstrom!!! It's one of my favorite rides! I always thought it was "Awesome!" as a kid. And I still think so to this day....though I wish it had a few more drops, LOL

Your pictures are all great. I wish I had a panoramic computer screen to see those pics up close without scrolling :rotfl:

No worries, we make it back in my next installment ;) I have dual screens at work so I can see the panoramas a bit better, but when I'm on my laptop I'm in the same boat.

I love the 3 caballeros! Donald is so funny.
The candy shop in Germany is my favorite because I can get Haribo Raspberries! Love those things.

Yes, Donald was very funny in it :) Glad we went on it. And we made it back around to that candy shop before the day is done so I understand what you're talking about - yummy stuff!

mnmrmustard

05-17-2011, 06:05 PM

I love Mexico. My favorite country in the Showcase

You know what, I never knew there was an African section :rotfl2:

Great pics as usual :thumbsup2

I haven't seen enough to know which is my favorite ...probably American Adventure at this point.

All I saw for Africa was some huts - don't know if it was meant to be an official statement for the country or not :confused3

cherbear

05-17-2011, 08:31 PM

mnmrmustard

05-17-2011, 11:43 PM

I have dual screens at work too Mike! I never thought to stretch the window out between the 2 screens. BUT, mine don't line up perfectly because my "dual" screens consist of my laptop screen (on the docking station) next to the regular screen. The laptop screen is smaller than the regular monitor.

Roxy has dual screens at her work with two different sizes. Nice having the two windows to work with isn't it? Mine are two 19" screens so I can not only stretch the panoramas, I've found a way to stretch my wallpaper to a single panoramic image. Right now it is Wall-E. I should take a pic of it and post it :)

kaoden39

05-18-2011, 10:53 AM

Roxy has dual screens at her work with two different sizes. Nice having the two windows to work with isn't it? Mine are two 19" screens so I can not only stretch the panoramas, I've found a way to stretch my wallpaper to a single panoramic image. Right now it is Wall-E. I should take a pic of it and post it :)

I would love to see it. I am a major Wall-E fan. I may be the only one I know.:rotfl:

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 10:26 AM

I would love to see it. I am a major Wall-E fan. I may be the only one I know.:rotfl:

Really? I love Wall-E, it is in my top 5 of Disney movies :)

Here is the desktop as I see it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/Desktop.jpg

Here is a print screen of it for clarity
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/Desktop2.jpg

And here is a link the original file if you want a copy of it
Wall-E Desktop (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/images/wall_e_desktop.jpg)

I actually had to photoshop in the content on the left side of the pic by cloning and blending to get it the right width, but it was worth it!

kaoden39

05-19-2011, 10:34 AM

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 12:25 PM

Mike,

That is amazing!! Thank you!! I saved it to my computer to use as a desktop. We have a big screen on our desktop and that will look amazing on it. I am pleased to hear I am not the only one that loves Wall-E. My family thinks I am nuts.

Well three cheers for being nuts then! :banana:

If that shape doesn't work well on your desktop I have two other versions that are the same quality but may fit it better. Mine is ultra-stretched to encompass the two monitors.

Now back to the TR Fun!!!! :dance3: :cool1::woohoo: :yay: :rotfl: :yay: :woohoo: :cool1: :dance3:

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 12:29 PM

We continued our journey with Donald and the Caballeros. Donald did a mean hat dance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-571.JPG

It’s getting dark in here
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-572.JPG

Donald trips down a pyramid
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-574.JPG

Festive skeletons
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-576.JPG

Very musical culture
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-577.JPG

This part had a real IaSW feel to it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-578.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-579.JPG

Donald in trouble again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-580.JPG

Mexico with a tropical vibe
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-581.JPG

Los Mariachis
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-582.JPG

Mexican magic carpet?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-583.JPG

Fireworks!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-584.JPG

Donald is the star!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-585.JPG

The stars love him :-D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-586.JPG

Hasta la vista baby!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-587.JPG

We got off the ride and decided to skip shopping in there other than looking through the crystal shop outside the ride entrance. Very cool stuff but very $$$. We took a wrong turn and went out the doors on the right side as you’re leaving the marketplace. It was actually very peaceful on this side and shady. And it had this cool mosaic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-588.JPG

Unfortunately there wasn’t a good way for Roxy to navigate her ECV so we went back in and out the other set of doors. We rolled back out front and I snapped one more shot of the big pyramid
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-589.JPG

Roxy volunteered to take her scooter and zoom back to Norway to see if Maelstrom was open. I browsed one of the stalls and eyed the margarita stand until she called saying it was open. I met her and we were quickly at the entrance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-590.JPG

I took one more shot of the architecture before we went inside.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-591.JPG

The line had been kind of spread out up until the doors, then it started to get a little tight. As we went through a very pushy group of ladies literally pushed past us. I think I said something along the lines of “oh please, go right ahead” to them, but they acted like they didn’t hear me.

Once inside we were wedged between them and another group that had a teenager pushing an older lady in a wheelchair. He kept hitting Roxy’s already unhappy ankles with the chair. I had to put myself in between her and them and give the kid a look to get him to back off. I’m happy to report that this was the only ride line that we had people issues on for the whole trip :-]

I was surprised at how much the line zig-zagged once you got inside but it was air-conditioned so no real biggie. It took about 20 minutes to make it onto the ride, which I though was pretty cool. I tried to take pics but it is so low light and the movement is quick enough that I ended up with a bunch of very blurry images. This is the only one worth posting.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-592.JPG

We came out and I got a pic of Roxy with the big troll guy – I think he was trying to get fresh with her
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-593.JPG

With that accomplished we went back past Mexico and on to the main walkway towards Future World. Here we found some flag topiaries
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-594.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-597.JPG

Just past them was Lightning McQueen!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-595.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-596.JPG

Mater was supposed to be there with him but they apparently had some issues with him and had to pull him from the display :-[

Next up there is shopping and food and fireworks!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 13 - Roxy Shops, I Much, and We Are Illuminated! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170241&postcount=184)

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 12:35 PM

By now the sun was going down and it was finally cooling off a bit. I walked over to the lagoon facing SE and captured this panorama
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-598.JPG

SE Lagoon Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-598p.JPG)

We followed the central causeway back to Future World. I was getting hungry and figured Electric Umbrella would be a good cheap fix. Roxy wasn’t hungry so she veered into MouseGear while I sat down with a chicken sandwich and fries. After eating I got a call from Roxy and we browsed MouseGear some more and picked up a bag for Roxy and some stuff for the girls. After we checked out it was close to 8pm so we started heading back towards World Showcase.

Hey look, SE! Haven’t seen that before – lol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-599.JPG

Fountains
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-600.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-601.JPG

Now the sun was completely down and the air had a purplish-pink hue to it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-602.JPG

Here’s a big picture of it (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-602p.JPG)

We headed back to the lagoon and saw that they had the central spot completely roped off for some special event. So we rolled around and picked a spot in between the Mexico and Norway pavilions to watch the show.

We ended up camped out next to a French couple and their son. We couldn’t understand much of what each other said but we had a good time trying :-D The sun was now gone and darkness enshrouded the lagoon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-603.JPG

WE Lagoon at Night Large (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-603p.JPG)

Finally it was 9pm and I was going to stand up and start taking pics. But for some reason our area had people staying seated up front. I have seen Illuminations only one other time and we were all crowded and standing at the fence. Roxy helped be my conscience and I stayed down for the sake of the people behind me, which unfortunately meant that I had to squat in an awkward position for the show. I was not feeling very Disney by the end of it from mad ankles and knees. Still got some interesting pics though – on with the show!

It started out with a bang!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-604.JPG

Very bright
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-605.JPG

Like a volcanic eruption
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-606.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-607.JPG

Then things went pink
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-608.JPG

Now that’s a fire!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-609.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-610.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-611.JPG

Big Shot of that One (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-611p.JPG)

Classic starbursts
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-612.JPG

***Warning! Excessive Panoramas Coming Up!***

And then the world came out
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-613.JPG

Big panorama of the World lighting up (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-613p.JPG)

The fountains kicked in
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-614.JPG

Big Shot of Fountains (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-614p.JPG)

Then they turned blue
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-615.JPG

Blue Fountains (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-615p.JPG)

And on to Pink
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-616.JPG

Pink Fountains (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-616p.JPG)

Sparks light the sky
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-617.JPG

Sparks in the Sky (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-617p.JPG)

And everything goes boom!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-618.JPG

The World goes Boom! (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-618p.JPG)

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-619.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-620.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-621.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-622.JPG

Next up, we finish being Illuminated …but the evening isn’t over!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 14 – Fireworks, Goodies, and Night Views of WS (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41170737&postcount=185)

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 01:10 PM

The show headed towards its finale
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-623.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-624.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-625.JPG

Like a big flower!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-625b.JPG

Blindingly bright
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-626.JPG

Purple explosion
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-627.JPG

Blurry but still pretty
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-628.JPG

Another big boom
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-629.JPG

The torch is lit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-630.JPG

The Torch Large Scale (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-630p.JPG)

Close-up of torch
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-631.JPG

High-flying fireworks
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-632.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-633.JPG

Final caboom!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-634.JPG

Now on a normal night you’d see all the masses flooding towards the exits, and there was a certain amount of that. But for us and the lucky guests of Disney Resorts it was EMH time! We went against the flow clockwise back around WS. Soon we were clear of the crowds and passing Norway.

It looked very sleepy
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-635.JPG

China was very serene
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-636.JPG

Then we made it back to our goal, Germany! We went into the goodie shop and Roxy picked up an assortment of chocolate and caramel delights. It acted as her dinner since she had shopped through regular dinner time. I just wanted some cold water ;-] We walked through the shops and I took a pic of the fountain
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-637.JPG

We walked back towards the lagoon and a CM snapped out pics.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-639.JPG
As you can see my sunscreen didn’t hold up quite as well as I would have liked. Forehead was better by morning but my neck was pretty red as the lanyard and my camera strap kept rubbing off the sunscreen.

Fuzzy but still a cool pic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-640.JPG

From there we took a leisurely stroll around the rest of the loop. It was really nice, the temp was good and the crowds were gone. Very nice quiet time for Roxy and I.

Italy shines
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-642.JPG

Japan Glows
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-643.JPG

Morocco Rests
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-644.JPG

Paris is filled with Romance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-645.JPG

One last slightly fuzzy panorama looking back towards American Adventure
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-646.JPG

Slighty Fuzzy American Adventure (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-646p.JPG)

Next up we wrap up our late night at EPCOT with a wild ride!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 3 Part 15 – A Fast Finish to a Long Day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41171413&postcount=186)

mnmrmustard

05-19-2011, 01:56 PM

Okay, I know I need to scale back the amount of pics I post with these TRs. I had to do 15 parts to this day to make it work – lolol

Once we finished the loop we decided to go ride Test Track. As I may have mentioned we had only done EPCOT one other time and our group ended up split with me taking care of Bean, who wasn’t feeling well. The other group went on TT so I had never been on it. The line wasn’t bad and gave enough time to look at all of the cool stuff along the way without us getting bored.

Looking across the organized mayhem
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-647.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-648.JPG

Old School
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-649.JPG

Emissions test
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-650.JPG

The engine churns along
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-651.JPG

The acoustic room was cool.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-654.JPG

Stripped car
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-655.JPG

Corrosion test
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-656.JPG

Seat wear test
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-658.JPG

Hi Roxy!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-661.JPG

Airbag test
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-662.JPG

Smushed car
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-663.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-664.JPG

Hearing the briefing
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-665.JPG

Camera couldn’t keep up but it made cool designs!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-667.JPG

Heat lamps
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-668.JPG

Beware corrosion
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-670.JPG

Squirrely turns
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-671.JPG

Loved the MOO!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-672.JPG

The trip outside was way too fast and dark to capture anything but it was a lot of fun! We disembarked, collected Roxy’s scooter, and walked out into the showroom.

Future car
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-674.JPG

Stickers!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-675.JPG

Fountains at night
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-676.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-678.JPG

SE …yes, again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-679.JPG

We stopped by the TS3 topiaries one more time and got a CM to take a shot. Kinda fuzzy but the Photopass pic is better and I just ordered the CD!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-680.JPG

We turned in Roxy’s scooter and took the LONG walk to the POP bus. I believe it was slot 18 or something, all I know is it was far. We got on the bus which had maybe a dozen people on it. We made it back to POP around 11:15pm and were asleep just before midnight.

What will tomorrow bring? What park will we go to? Well okay, all you have to do is look back at the main page to see our itinerary – lol. So tomorrow will find us at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I have to go through those pics, but the upside there is that there is only 374 of them and I will whittle that down before posting. The EPCOT pics totaled just over 400 AFTER whittling them down. So the hope is that Day 4’s TR section won’t have quite so many chapters ;-D

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 1 - I'm Ready for My Close-Up! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41273204&postcount=198)

kaoden39

05-19-2011, 02:47 PM

cherbear

05-19-2011, 03:13 PM

Mike, I LOVE the pictures. I very much enjoy all the shots, so you don't have to whittle anything for me!

lovebuzzandwoody

05-19-2011, 03:49 PM

Okay, I know I need to scale back the amount of pics I post with these TRs.

Nooooo! I love all the pics!!!

In fact, I stole the sunset over SE pic... the one that is pinkish. You don't mind do you? :rolleyes1

I am happy to be all caught up here ~ I've been slacking! :guilty:

Trentmom

05-19-2011, 05:35 PM

Love your Wall E Screen...That is so neat

I like Wall E too. I even have a shirt :thumbsup2

Your pics are awesome as usual. Love all the fireworks pics

Never seen the flag Topiaries before. They were pretty cool

Love the Cars one :thumbsup2

Glad u got to experience Test Track. Test Track at night is the da bomb :cool1:

mnmrmustard

05-21-2011, 09:49 PM

Wow you really updated today!!

I love the fireworks over the water. That is how they do that here, over the Suisun Bay. There is something so pretty about it. I love the night time pictures you don't get to see them very often.

Oh and thank you. I am going to try it out on the desktop later and if I have a problem I will let you know.

Yes, wanted to get day 2 finished! Oh yes, fireworks over water is the best. Adds so much more to the experience.

Good luck with the desktop.

Mike, I LOVE the pictures. I very much enjoy all the shots, so you don't have to whittle anything for me!

Thank you Cheri, and I can tell you there are still plenty of pics to come :thumbsup2

Nooooo! I love all the pics!!!

In fact, I stole the sunset over SE pic... the one that is pinkish. You don't mind do you? :rolleyes1

I am happy to be all caught up here ~ I've been slacking! :guilty:

Okay, okay, I'll not over-whittle the pics for the rest of the trip.

Glad you liked the pic, and if you or anyone else wants a bigger version if anything else I post I still have the originals. Glad you got caught up before I started day 3!

Love your Wall E Screen...That is so neat

I like Wall E too. I even have a shirt :thumbsup2

Your pics are awesome as usual. Love all the fireworks pics

Never seen the flag Topiaries before. They were pretty cool

Love the Cars one :thumbsup2

Glad u got to experience Test Track. Test Track at night is the da bomb :cool1:

Glad there are more Wall-E fans out there :)

Thanks again on the pics, I think I got all of the topiaries, not completely sure. The flags were pretty cool, just wish they weren't in the shadows. Lightning McQueen was one of the best ones I think.

TT Rocks for sure!

mermaid764

05-21-2011, 10:03 PM

kaoden39

05-21-2011, 10:21 PM

Mike, I wanted to let you know Wall-E looks great on my computer!!

mnmrmustard

05-22-2011, 09:42 PM

Wow you got such amazing pics of Illuminations and World showcase at night, the shots are awesome!

Evening EMH at Epcot s one my favorite parts of WDW as it never seems to feel as crowded as the other parks.

Can't wait to hear about DHS:goodvibes

Thank you, I love night photography. It is one of my favorites and the lighting and architecture of Disney really lends itself to it.

This was my first evening at WS and I know I want to come back.

I didn't get through my DHS pics this weekend. Finally got some good weather and spent a big chunk of yesterday working on the yard, very sore but got a lot accomplished. Today we went to see the new PoTC, it was pretty cool pirate:

Mike, I wanted to let you know Wall-E looks great on my computer!!

Whoohoo, glad to hear it! :thumbsup2 :cool1:

cherbear

05-23-2011, 12:52 PM

Leger13

05-23-2011, 04:09 PM

I'm a BAD TR follower *sigh* I never did get to come and catch up. If work is dead tomorrow I vow to come and catch up. :hug:

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 12:06 AM

Mike, I was just going back through your posts so I could find the perfect picture for my desktop background....and that's when I realized that I had missed several posts of yours--including all of your universal day! So I kept going and reading, backwards of course. LOL What great fun you had there!

We never got to experience Poseidon's so I was looking forward to your take (and pics) on it, so I was surprised that you couldn't do it. :sad2:

I can't remember what happened that forced us out, but I remember a whole group of us waiting and waiting in the front area, to only end up turning around after 20 minutes. I wish I could recall what it was that made us leave.

Oh no, well if you're missing stuff you can go to my first post - I have links to each chapter. Glad you found the Univeral day, hope it was fun in reverse ;)

That's weird that you weren't able to do Poseidon's either. I kind of remember it from our 2002 trip, mostly I was thinking that the effects that we saw weren't worth all of the standing and walking we had to do. I would only go through it again if we'd done everything else we wanted to.

I'm a BAD TR follower *sigh* I never did get to come and catch up. If work is dead tomorrow I vow to come and catch up. :hug:

No worries Carla, I know how it is, I still have to make it back over to yours too. Come back when your wee one has a good nap :cloud9:

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 12:09 AM

Saturday morning dawned warm and bright. Despite our EMH night at EPCOT, we somehow managed to be up and out the door before 8am. We grabbed breakfast burritos and filled our refillable mugs and were out the door. I just have to say how much I love the layout of POP! Easy walk to an easy-access food court and right out the doors to the bus loading zones. We headed outside and on a Disney bus which was happily waiting for us.

DHS was opening up at 8am and we were dropped off and walking past this sight by 8:12am
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-681.JPG

There was no real line so within two minutes we were through the gates and heading past the crossroads
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-682.JPG

Around we went and caught sight of the big hat
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-683.JPG

We were starting our day with some thrill-seeking so we strolled down and hooked a right down towards the icon of DHS
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-684.JPG

But that’s not what we were gunning for. That’s right, it was Rockin’ Roller Coaster time!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-685.JPG

We went ahead and picked up FPs for it. Then we headed in to the stand-by line, which stopped at the same spot as the FP line. Yay for getting there early! We were quickly through Aerosmith’s spiel and on to the parking garage.

Some other concert goers were already in the limo
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-686.JPG

Each time we went through we stood aside for the 1st row and rode it two times in a row before the FPs were needed. 3rd time around we used them and on the way out I snapped this blurry shot.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-687.JPG

We decided that three times was enough on RnRC. Our first big ride skip of the trip was ToT. I personally rode it 10 times (largely thanks to my younger daughter Bean) and Roxy rode it several times. We also rode it multiple times at DLR in 2009. We decided to give it a pass this time around and move on to other fun. We strolled back up the street and checked out a couple of shops. After some browsing we moved on up and around past the Brown Derby
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-688.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-689.JPG

Mickey was directing his brooms
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-690.JPG

We had decided to break up our day with as many air-conditioned rides as we could as the heat was already ramping up and I was trying to protect my neck from a minor sunburn I had gotten at EPCOT the day before. So our next stop was The Little Mermaid show. This was one I had seen with Bean on our Daddy/Daughter day but Roxy hadn’t seen it. Last time we ended up in the front row which kinda stinks as the stage is pretty tall. This time I had us sit in the back and had a much better view.

The story opens much like the movie with a ship on the horizon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-691.JPG

Then it started raining, go figure
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-692.JPG

The laser-painted title was very cool
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-693.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-694.JPG

Then we had some laser jellyfish swim by
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-695.JPG

Then it was time for a little “under the sea” musical magic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-696.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-697.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-698.JPG

More pretty lights
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-699.JPG

Then Ariel came on and sang about wanting to be part of their world
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-700.JPG

Flotsam and Jetsam overheard and reported back to Ursula
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-701.JPG

Ursula comes in and offers her deal to Ariel
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-702.JPG

Ariel says yes of course and Ursula laughs as she takes her voice
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-703.JPG

We do a laser transition
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-704.JPG

And boom, we’re at the end of the movie with Eric fighting Ursula on the ship
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-705.JPG

Next up more high seas adventure!

Click here for the next chapter: Day 4 Part 2 – Mermaids and Gangsters (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41275663&postcount=201)

GeminiAngel

05-28-2011, 06:42 AM

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 10:10 AM

We've been on the Lil Mermaid once. I Can't get my under 10 daughter back in there! She said its so boring. :sad2:

No Disney magic for her, she just wants to do rides. I love all the disney shows and parades. Nice photos. :thumbsup2

Awww, sorry she doesn't enjoy the shows. Maybe she'll come around when she's older.

We like the shows but my younger daughter is just like yours, rides rides rides!

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 10:12 AM

It looks bad for Eric at first but of course Ursula is finally thwarted
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-706.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-707.JPG

They couldn’t watch
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-708.JPG

Once the smoke clears dear old dad relents to Ariel’s request
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-709.JPG

And she is able to join Eric and Max
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-710.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-711.JPG

A kiss and the show was over
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-712.JPG

We left the show and took a look at the character times. I really wanted photos with The Incredibles but they weren’t going to be out anytime soon. So we decided to keep cool as much as possible, which meant a short walk to an old standard, The Great Movie Ride. It gets a lot of grief but I still find it fun.

They still had Narnia costumes out
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-713.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-714.JPG

And a carousel horse
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-715.JPG

It was a pretty quick jaunt through the first ‘movie theater’ and on to the ride boats.

The obligatory shot of the big marquee
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-716.JPG

Snowflakes to tiers of dancers
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-717.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-718.JPG

Gene was singin’
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-719.JPG

Mary and Bert were flying high
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-720.JPG

And Cagney was hiding out
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-721.JPG

We made it to the stopping point
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-722.JPG

And were taken over by a female gangster
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-723.JPG

Clint was in the shadows but I still got a couple of decent shots of him
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-724.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-725.JPG

Not much luck with getting the Alien though
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-726.JPG

Indy was going for the Arc
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-727.JPG

Then the gangster went for the jewel
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-728.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-729.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-730.JPG

Next up we find adventure on the streets of DHS

Click here for the next chapter: Day 4 Part 3 – The Ride Ends and We Find Adventure on the Streets (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41275729&postcount=202)

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 10:18 AM

The next room was the Tarzan room, which I didn’t get any good shots is, but got this interesting psychedelic pic while trying to catch him swinging
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-731.JPG

Here’s lookin’ at you kid
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-732.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-733.JPG

Mickey worked his magic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-734.JPG

And then on to Munchkin Land where we find one witch squashed
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-735.JPG

…and the other not very happy about it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-736.JPG

She disappeared in a puff of smoke and we took a quick tour of Munchkin Land
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-737.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-738.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-740.JPG

Dorothy and the crew said farewell
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-741.JPG

We pulled in to the highlight reel room and then were on our way. We walked past the commissary and I took the opportunity for a quick pit stop while Roxy sat at one of the outdoor tables. I was also able to get an ice water refill while in there.

We walked on and passed a billboard for the show Castle, a favorite of the ladies of the household. I think it’s okay but prefer his role in the Firefly series.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-742.JPG

By now it was around 10:45am and we didn’t have anything going on until 11:30am with a Sci-Fi Dine-In rese. So we walked on to the city street sets.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-743.JPG

I had Roxy stand in front of the New York backdrop
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-744.JPG

Then we headed for the streets of San Francisco
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-745.JPG

We looped around and passed a fountain that I hadn’t even noticed on our last trip
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-746.JPG

We kept walking, sticking to the shade as much as possible. I walked past an Incredibles billboard and had to take a shot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-747.JPG

Further on was TSM and the Buzz and Woody meet and greets. The lines were too long for both but I did get a chance to get my picture taken with an Army man
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-748.JPG

We decided to go into the Narnia thing since it had AC. I thought it was extremely lame, just a glorified commercial for a movie that came out a year ago. The exhibits were kind of cool though
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-749.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-750.JPG

It was such a short walk-through that we still had some time on our hands. So I walked us back this way
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-751.JPG

…and found the Singin’ in the Rain umbrella
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-752.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-753.JPG

We started back, looping around down a different street and came across Lightning and Mater
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-754.JPG

The last time we were here that spot had been taken up by Buzz and Woody. Things are always changing at the parks!
We walked past the Mama Melrose building, the Mona Lisa never looked so good.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-755.JPG

We wandered past Pizza Planet on our way to Sci-Fi. I love the way the sun was glinting off of his helmet
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-756.JPG

Next up we take a pit stop and then I make a bid for stardom …and no, not on American Idol

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 4 – Sci-Fi Eats and Spectacular Feats! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281030&postcount=206)

mermaid764

05-28-2011, 10:35 AM

Trentmom

05-28-2011, 11:52 AM

Yay, another update!!!!

Love DHS.

Never seen the Mermaid Show. Thanks for showing all the pics and giving a play by play. I doubt I will be seeing that anytime soon. Trent says it is for girls :laughing:

Great movie is my favorite ride. Never gets old :thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 08:32 PM

Your pictures turned out amazing from the Little Mermaid and the Great Mermaid Ride.

We were supposed to do sci fi on our last trip but ended up canceling it so i'm looking forward to hearing what you guys think of it.

I totally agree with you on the layout of pop, it was so easy to navigate.

Can't wait to hear more:goodvibes

Thank you, they were lots of fun to watch and go on. And I gave a small review of Sci-Fi but bottom line is that we'll do it again. Pop Rocks! ...just love saying that :rotfl2:

Yay, another update!!!!

Love DHS.

Never seen the Mermaid Show. Thanks for showing all the pics and giving a play by play. I doubt I will be seeing that anytime soon. Trent says it is for girls :laughing:

Great movie is my favorite ride. Never gets old :thumbsup2

Yes, Mermaid is mostly for the princesses in the audience. Happy to share the story with you. It is a cute story, even cut down to 15-20 minutes.

Now here comes a big update with a good mix of pics and vids!!! :woohoo:

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 08:43 PM

Off to Star Command!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-757.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-758.JPG

We made it in right at 11:30am for our lunch reses at Sci-Fi Dine-In and who was sitting there? The French couple and their son …the same ones we sat next to the night before waiting for IllumiNations! “It’s a small world” started echoing through my head – lol. Their name was called and soon enough so was ours. Now this was our first time at Sci-Fi but I heard it had great 50s camp, which I love. We had been told that the food was so-so but the service and atmosphere made up for it.

We were seated in one of the cars on the right side about half way back. A couple of girls were seated behind us – the seemed pretty nice. One of them also had a b-day button on :D

I believe our server’s name was Brian. He was very upbeat but in a good way. He gave good suggestions and I ended up getting the Ruben with a shake and Roxy got a Smoked Turkey Sandwich with a coke. Again I say I LOVE the dining plan, just makes things so easy! Food wasn’t bad except Roxy really didn’t like the avocado mayo with her sandwich.

After getting our drinks our server was nice enough to take my camera and get a couple of shots of us
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-759.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-760.JPG

Towards the end of the meal Brian came up and said our car was chosen as a magic table and gave us and the girls behind us cool Sci-Fi cups with popcorn in them :-]

After our meal I stood up and got as far to the side as I could and got a panorama of the place
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-761.JPG

Here is the big version of the panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-761p.JPG)

We headed back outside and knew right away we needed to stick to the shade as it had crept above 90 degrees again with high humidity and little cloud cover. We looked at the schedule and the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular was going to be starting in only 10 minutes. This was a winner because it was shaded and Roxy had never seen it. We came in and got pretty decent seats about 1/3 of the way up in the center section.

Now I came into this with a goal, I was going to not just watch the show – I wanted to be IN the show! The odds are not in my favor as there are 2,000 people in the audience and I believe only 12 are chosen. But I have been told it all has to do with how much you try to get the host’s attention. The show started up and Mari-Beth the Casting Director came out. She picked the first group and didn’t even look in my direction. Then she picked the second group, still no joy. I was jumping and yelling and waving my arms but it wasn’t enough. Last round came up very quickly but my angel stepped up and when the host went to choose, Roxy stood up too and was waving and pointing at me! Sure enough, I was picked!!!

Our task was to take on poses and stay in them. I was lucky and got the “strong man” pose and didn’t have to ‘walk the runway’ or balance for an extended period.

Here is a video of that bit

Mike Gets Chosen! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwlSXq7xjAo)

After doing our bit we went up to the right rear (as you’re facing the stage) which acted as “wardrobe”. There we donned tunics which consist of a robe with a velcro front. I was also given a turban hat. They then had us quickly sit in a part of the stands set aside for us so we could see the first part of the stunt show.

I took this right after I sat down

Guess Who’s in the Stunt Show! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WS6VCoeGJ2M)

The Idol Awaits
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-762.JPG

Now back to Roxy, who kept up on the filming duties. Here’s that first segment of the Stunt Spectacular

Going for the Gold (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMXJaB50o0U)

Next up, Mari-Beth brings us out for some group-based silliness.

Look At our Acting Chops! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vM2I4r2CEVM)

And then we were into my big scene! Well okay, it was Indy & Marian’s big scene, but I was there too!

The Cairo Crowd (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUX3amRJg00)

Next we find out that explosives are dangerous and I get to take off my turban and loosen my tunic. Remember, it was a HOT day! We get to see the ‘knock out the extra’ bit from close range, which was a kick.

Marian Apologizes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmiK4NlUNUA)

And as you may have seen I got to high-five the 7’ tall stunt man on the way out – w00t!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/High-Five.jpg

They had us pull off the costumes and dump them in a bag. They then gave us a little drink of water and sent us back to our seats.

I was still buzzing from the on-stage fun but still picked up my camera for the last sequence. This one was important to me to see. As I had said, Roxy hadn’t seen the show. But I hadn’t seen this sequence when Bean and I went due to technical difficulties. We waited and waited and they shut the production down. I think the plane wouldn’t start or something.

But this time we were rolling, here comes the plane!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-763.JPG

Here comes the pilot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-764.JPG

The plane is parked and lucky for the good guys everyone disappears. So now we see Indy and Marian run out to make their big escape
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-765.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-766.JPG

Large Version of the Run Out (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-766p.JPG)

Marian quickly jumps up
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-767.JPG

Indy runs around to remove the wheel blocks
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-768.JPG

Uh oh, here comes trouble!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-769.JPG

Marian tries to warn Indy but it’s too late
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-770.JPG

Looks like Indy is trying to hug his arm – lol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-771.JPG

Indy takes a shot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-772.JPG

Unfortunately it didn’t have much of an effect
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-773.JPG

He tries again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-774.JPG

…and then gets thrown around
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-775.JPG

Here comes the pain
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-776.JPG

Boom goes the dynamite!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-777.JPG

Down he goes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-778.JPG

The big guy is almost hit by the rotors
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-779.JPG

Where did Indy go?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-780.JPG

Next up, More Spectacular Stunts!

Click here for the next chapter: Day 4 Part 5 – More Spectacular Stunts! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281076&postcount=207)

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 08:47 PM

Machine gun fire erupts as Indy tries to help Marian out of the cockpit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-781.JPG

The big guy has other ideas
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-782.JPG

Up he goes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-783.JPG

I think he’ll need to see a dentist after that shot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-783.JPG

Down Indy tumbles
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-785.JPG

The big guy is right behind him
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-786.JPG

Boot to the head!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-787.JPG

This is the fist with which I will now hit you
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-788.JPG

Indy gets tossed around like a rag doll as the fuel truck starts to spew
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-789.JPG

Marian starts to shoot again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-790.JPG

And the flames erupt!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-791.JPG

Indy’s on the ground again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-792.JPG

Flames burn, Marian spins, and Indy says ‘don’t hit me!’
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-793.JPG

Large Version of that one (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-793p.JPG)

Indy’s on the ropes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-794.JPG

Strangulation time
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-795.JPG

German soldiers open fire
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-796.JPG

Big shot of that scene (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-796p.JPG)

Marian mows them down
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-797.JPG

Large version of the shootout (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-797p.JPG)

He’s got Indy by the collar
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-798.JPG

…and throws him down again
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-799.JPG

Large version (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-799p.JPG)

The fight continues as the fire builds
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-800.JPG

Bowling for Indy!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-801.JPG

Strike!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-802.JPG

Both of then started going into a Saturday Night Fever stance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-803.JPG

Burn baby burn, it’s a disco inferno!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-804.JPG

How is he still standing?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-805.JPG

Next up, things really start to heat up!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 6 – The Stunt Spectacular Reaches its Crescendo! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41281114&postcount=208)

mnmrmustard

05-28-2011, 08:51 PM

Things are heating up!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-806.JPG

Heating Up Big Time! (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-806p.JPG)

Marian takes out the big mechanic
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-807.JPG

Luckily she missed Indy
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-808.JPG

Indy takes a moment to do the robot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-809.JPG

He then runs in to save the day
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-810.JPG

Up the ladder for the third time
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-811.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-812.JPG

Of course it is just in time for the fuel spill to catch
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-813.JPG

Big view of Fuel Spill Light Up (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-813p.JPG)

He struggles with the lock as the flames approach
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-814.JPG

Large shot of that one (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-814p.JPG)

Time to shoot the lock
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-815.JPG

Panorama of the Lock Shot (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-815p.JPG)

Got it open but those flames are getting close!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-816.JPG

Large shot of that one (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-816p.JPG)

Jump Marian!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-817.JPG

Large shot of the Jump (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-817p.JPG)

He catches her as the flames are about to reach the truck
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-818.JPG

Large shot of that one (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-818p.JPG)

Run!!!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-819.JPG

Large sized Run!!! (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-819p.JPG)

Kaboom!!!!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-820.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-821.JPG

And the actors break the fourth wall as they run towards the audience
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-822.JPG

…aaaannnndddd, CUT!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-823.JPG

The crowd started shuffling towards the exits but I wanted to stick around. I walked down to the edge of the stage as the actors milled around. I put down our Sci-Fi popcorn cups and Roxy took a pic of me.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-824.JPG

The stage crew was putting everything back in its place for the next show
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-825.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-826.JPG

The stunt actors for Indy and Marian were still out there and I asked if I could get a quick pic with them and they said ‘yes’ – score!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-827.JPG

We thanked them and headed out, stopping to take the obligatory shot by the old tank
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-828.JPG

We walked down the ramp and I took a shot of the boat and fountain.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-829.JPG

Next up, Characters get Cheeky and A Girl Takes a Bath

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 7 - Characters get Cheeky and A Girl Takes a Bath (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297144&postcount=215)

Marshay

05-28-2011, 09:45 PM

I am so green with jealousy over you getting to see Belle in her blue dress. That is never going to happen in Disneyland.

REally? We saw Belle twice during our trip and both times at different places, she was in the blue dress. She's in the yellow dress in the Princess "tent" (used to be in Toontown, now on Main street). I agree it is nice to see her dressed both ways.

We went in January of 2008 and it was great other than the last day, which got a little chilly. Most of our 11 days there was low to mid 80s. However, my wife's boss and his family went in January of 2010, which was unfortunately when they had that big freeze. They were pretty miserable.

But April traditionally isn't as hot as we had it, we just caught it during some uncommonly hot weather. It is a total dice roll I guess. I know that in general I would avoid it from about mid-May to mid-September due to the excessive heat and crowds. But we all do what we can for the sake of that Disney magic.

I would still go back in April again given the chance.

Thanks for the info on Jan. We are planning to go in Jan 2012. I went for like 2 days in January a few years ago when I had to go to Tampa for work. I remember it was cold in the early morning and evening but the days were nice.

Love all your pictures!!! Since we just left WDW last week, we were able to see the F&G show and I loved looking at all your pictures to be reminded of everything again.

You take amazing photos.

mermaid764

05-28-2011, 11:23 PM

That's neat that your car was given some pixie dust at sci fi, and the food sounds pretty good

How fun that you were chosen to be in the show and your pictures turned out great!

Looking forward to more:goodvibes

Trentmom

05-29-2011, 12:42 AM

Sounds like a great day

How neat you got a special treat at Sci Fi

That is so cool you got picked to be an extra in Indy Show

We have seen that show like 20 times or more as it is Trent's favorite show

Great videos :thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

05-29-2011, 02:31 PM

Thanks for the info on Jan. We are planning to go in Jan 2012. I went for like 2 days in January a few years ago when I had to go to Tampa for work. I remember it was cold in the early morning and evening but the days were nice.

Love all your pictures!!! Since we just left WDW last week, we were able to see the F&G show and I loved looking at all your pictures to be reminded of everything again.

You take amazing photos.

I think you'll have a good time in January, it was warm enough for us to still hit the water parks! And crowd levels were so low. Just need a light jacket for mornings/evenings.

Thank you on the pics, wasn't F&G show great? Did they have Mater back out there when you were there?

That's neat that your car was given some pixie dust at sci fi, and the food sounds pretty good

How fun that you were chosen to be in the show and your pictures turned out great!

Looking forward to more:goodvibes

Yes, we didn't eat the popcorn because we were too full all day, but we still have the cups and Bean like using them.

Yes, I can cross being an extra off my bucket list ;)

Sounds like a great day

How neat you got a special treat at Sci Fi

That is so cool you got picked to be an extra in Indy Show

We have seen that show like 20 times or more as it is Trent's favorite show

Great videos :thumbsup2

It was a great day, not too fast paced but we still saw and did plenty!

20 times to Indy? He must really love it. He's probably like Bean and is unhappy that he can't be picked as an extra :confused:

Time to post the last of the DHS day, it sure went quicker than F&G!

Marshay

05-29-2011, 08:45 PM

I think you'll have a good time in January, it was warm enough for us to still hit the water parks! And crowd levels were so low. Just need a light jacket for mornings/evenings.

Thank you on the pics, wasn't F&G show great? Did they have Mater back out there when you were there?

I can't remember about Mater. We had 1.5 days at Epcot during the Flower and Garden Show but it was also Pixar Weekend. So we concentrated more on Pixar since that was a first ever! Also, it poured on our 1/2 day there...ugly nasty rain ...but the next day was great.

mnmrmustard

05-30-2011, 02:22 PM

I can't remember about Mater. We had 1.5 days at Epcot during the Flower and Garden Show but it was also Pixar Weekend. So we concentrated more on Pixar since that was a first ever! Also, it poured on our 1/2 day there...ugly nasty rain ...but the next day was great.

Ahhh, gotcha. Well I have certainly leaned that spring weather at WDW is volatile! Glad the second day was so good :goodvibes

mnmrmustard

05-30-2011, 02:30 PM

I looked at my watch and saw it was 1:30pm, time to meet the Incredibles!!! We worked our way past the big hat and down the secret corridors (or so it seemed) to find the character greeting area. I made a beeline for the Incredibles area and found Mr. Incredible and Frozone waiting for us.

Frozone was cool, giving us a ‘talk to the hand’ gesture - lol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-830.JPG

The line wasn’t too long and soon enough I was there putting on my best ‘super hero’ pose with them
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-831.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-832.JPG

We looked around and they also had Sorcerer Mickey and Lotso. We had no interest in Lotso, but had to get a pic with Mickey. The line for him was of course longer, but its mickey after all.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-833.JPG

Soon after getting in line Mickey had to take a break, so we sat down and waited. He came back out within about 5 minutes and we worked our way up to him.

Hiiii Mickey!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-834.JPG

When we came out of the line I saw that Frozone had left and Mrs. Incredible was in his place. So I dragged Roxy back over there. The line was a bit longer, but worth it.

First the ‘strong’ pose with both of them
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-835.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-836.JPG

Then I wanted to steal a kiss from Mrs. Incredible, she was bashful
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-837.JPG

Mr. Incredible, not to be outdone, swooped in and kissed Roxy’s hand :-D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-838.JPG

Mr. Incredible then had some explaining to do!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-839.JPG

We thought about doing the artist thing but time was ticking and we wanted to see/do more. So we headed out through the Snow White exhibit

First, a collection of Oscars from Snow White and other Disney films
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-840.JPG

Then a mix of storyboards, paintings, and movie cells from Snow White
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-841.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-842.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-843.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-844.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-845.JPG

We headed out and I saw this cool pic from the opening of The Jungle Book
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-846.JPG

We had already decided to skip TSM and the timing wasn’t right for the LMA, so we decided to trek back across the park to The Backlot Tour. It is another that I really enjoy and also another that Roxy hadn’t been through. We made good time and after getting some more ice water we made it to the line for it. We only had to wait a few minutes before they had us file into the first area. We got to be in the first row, which was great for getting pics. When Bean and I had watched this it had been too cold to have extras up there but this time we would get the full show!

The host gets the first girl set, doesn’t she look excited?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-847.JPG

Bucket #1 releases
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-848.JPG

Brace for impact!!!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-849.JPG

Bucket #1 hits as Bucket #2 releases
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-850.JPG

Bucket #1 starts dying down
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-851.JPG

Where’s she go?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-852.JPG

Here comes Bucket #2!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-853.JPG

The first bit starts to hit her!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-854.JPG

Next up, the crew comes under attack and we walk through the warehouse

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 8 – Brave Sailors are Attacked and We Tour the Warehouse (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297175&postcount=216)

mnmrmustard

05-30-2011, 02:34 PM

The second wave starts to really pour in
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-855.JPG

Is she still there?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-856.JPG

Ahhh, there she is!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-857.JPG

She was very brave …hope it cooled her off
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-858.JPG

Now the crew of the PT boat gets their cues
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-859.JPG

Another day on patrol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-860.JPG

What’s that?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-861.JPG

Strafing run!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-862.JPG

Torpedo hit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-864.JPG

Nice reaction on the part of the crew
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-865.JPG

Are they sinking?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-866.JPG

Bombs away!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-867.JPG

And the girl in the box thought she was done getting wet
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-868.JPG

Multiple explosions, I like the way the one on the left is just coming up and looks like a mushroom
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-869.JPG

Now bring on the fire!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-870.JPG

The crew cringes as the captain tries to get under way
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-871.JPG

More torpedoes and it looks like the crew is surrendering!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-872.JPG

Kaboom!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-873.JPG

The show sure ended with a nice splash :-D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-874.JPG

The show was over and we were all lead into the prop warehouse. Look, something shiny from the Sorcerer’s Apprentice
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-875.JPG

Cool train, Walt would be proud
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-876.JPG

I want a Mickey Fridge!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-877.JPG

Anyone know what movie the scroll props were from?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-878.JPG

The horse looks like it is in the style of Mulan. The birdcage looks familiar, but I’m not sure from what.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-879.JPG

You can never have enough ACME Eyeballs!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-880.JPG

Next up, we hit the trams!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 9 – Our Backlot Tour Continues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41297209&postcount=217)

mnmrmustard

05-30-2011, 02:38 PM

Almost done in the warehouse. Here’s a subway car from the movie The Lottery
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-881.JPG

Lots of props including a very big basketball shoe
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-882.JPG

We watched the finished product of the naval battle and headed out to the tour tram. First shot is the skull cage from Pirates III.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-883.JPG

I thought something looked different and had to look back to our 2008 trip. Sure enough, there was a cage missing! I wonder if it is the one that now resides at Disneyland on the Pirate Lair on Tom Sawyer Island?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2008/Dis08_1211.JPG

And again, Hiiii MICKEY!!!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-884.JPG

LMA wasn’t running, but we did get to see a couple of stunt guys tinkering with one of the cars
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-885.JPG

Pearl Harbor plane
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-886.JPG

Mickey Topiary
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-887.JPG

I want to work here!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-888.JPG

Frameworks for a couple of topiaries – dragons maybe?
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-889.JPG

A shot of the water tower
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-890.JPG

Costumes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-891.JPG

More costumes
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-892.JPG

Aaaannnddd more costumes!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-893.JPG

Mini prince and princess outfits
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-894.JPG

Sylin’ hats
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-895.JPG

Scenes and Graphics
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-896.JPG

The two Earful Towers with smoke below from one of the LMA cars
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-897.JPG

Steam roller from Who Framed Roger Rabbit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-898.JPG

Don’t know what movie this fire truck is from
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-899.JPG

The gondola from a movie called Casanova
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-900.JPG

Don’t know what movie the little yellow car is from, but the Beverly Hills sign was used in Beverly Hills Chihuahua
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-901.JPG

More boneyard props
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-902.JPG

I’m a big sci-fi nut but I don’t know what movie this lunar rover is from either
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-903.JPG

I did notice that the planes from Con-Air and Flightplan, along with the motor cycles from Indiana Jones III were gone or I missed them somehow.

The split Herbie was sitting in wait for LMA to start.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-904.JPG

Next up, into Catastrophe Canyon!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 10 – Catastrophe Canyon! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41322838&postcount=221)

kaoden39

05-30-2011, 02:49 PM

Heath Ledger was in Casanova. Useless trivia I am a master at it. Sorry I haven't said anything for a while but I have been here. It all looks good.

jelloarms

05-30-2011, 03:49 PM

Just letting you know I am in!

mnmrmustard

05-30-2011, 09:29 PM

Heath Ledger was in Casanova. Useless trivia I am a master at it. Sorry I haven't said anything for a while but I have been here. It all looks good.

Ahhh, thank you Michele! No worries on saying anything. If you're anything like me you're trying to juggle at least a dozen threads ;)

Just letting you know I am in!

Welcome, welcome! Hope you're enjoying it, the end of my first post has links to the relevant chapters if you want to stay on track with the story. I see that you went this spring too. I'll have to check out your TR! :thumbsup2

mnmrmustard

06-01-2011, 01:44 PM

We continued our tram tour and headed towards Catastrophe Canyon

There’s Walt’s Plane
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-905.JPG

Entering Catastrophe Canyon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-906.JPG

Panorama of the set before the action starts – the fuel truck looks bent because of the angle I had for the photo, kind of that fisheye thing
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-907.JPG

Large shot of the Canyon (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-907p.JPG)

The fire erupts!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-908.JPG

Large shot of the Fire (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-908p.JPG)

Big fire up top
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-909.JPG

Here comes the water!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-910.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-911.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-912.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-913.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-914.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-915.JPG

Wide angle for the full flood effect
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-916.JPG

Large shot of the Flood (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-916p.JPG)

I can almost feel the spray
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-917.JPG

Here comes the waterfall
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-918.JPG

It is a staggering amount of water
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-919.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-920.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-921.JPG

On we went on the tour, I took a shot of the inner workings as I love to know how things work
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-922.JPG

Another shot of Walt’s plane
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-923.JPG

One more shot of the Earful Towers
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-924.JPG

More space stuff that I don’t know the origin of
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-925.JPG

The ship from Flight of the Navigator
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-926.JPG

Skid from Return of the Jedi
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-927.JPG

Snowspeeder from Empire Strikes Back
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-928.JPG

Sub from The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-929.JPG

Next up, the end of our DHS day.

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 4 Part 11 – A good end to our day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41322965&postcount=222)

mnmrmustard

06-01-2011, 01:55 PM

Chopper from The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-930.JPG

Herbie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-931.JPG

Escape pod from The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-932.JPG

We finished up the Backlot tour with a shot of the full New York street scene
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-933.JPG

And then we were off and going through the AFI Villains area. Mostly the same stuff from last time, a mix of Star Wars and Pirates with an Alien thrown in. I did take a pic of Davey Jones’s pipe organ
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-934.JPG

By now it was approaching 4pm and our energy level was way down and Roxy’s ankles were really starting to bug her again. We looked and found that Beauty and the Beast was going to start soon so we made our way across the park one more time. I didn’t take any pics of the show, I was just too tired. If you want some good shots to look at you can take a peek at our 2008 TR, I basically shot the whole show that time ;-]

After B&TB we still had about 45 minutes before our dinner reses at 50s Prime Time. So we just wandered through shops. Here’s where you know I was just too tired. I had set my camera on manual focus to get that cool pic of the pipe organ and forgot to set it back to auto. From here on out the pics are a bit fuzzy depending on how far away we were from the camera :-[

Roxy wanted a pic with the Gremlin
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-935.JPG

We went from store to store, slowly working our way from B&TB to 50s Prime Time. This turned out to be one of our big spending sprees on the girls. By the time we had looped out the street where B&TB is and all the way down the street towards the entrance we probably had 5 bags – yikes! Towards the end of the spree I was completely spent and sat down on a bench and put down my camera.

Roxy finished in the store and I got up and we moved on. We were looking for a Nala stuffy for Bean, one of her specific requests. We asked around and there was a store next to Indy that supposedly had them. Off we went to this little place and sure enough they had them.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-950.JPG

It was good that Roxy had us get it there as I thought we could just pick one up at AK on our last day. We looked in several shops at AK and never saw one. Yay for mommy instincts!

Now back to our story. It was now close enough to our reservation time that we walked down and checked in. There was a couch open in the ‘living room’ so we sat and waited. I was looking around and thought to take a couple of pics in there and OMG!!!!!!!! NO CAMERA!!!!!!!

I jumped up and babbled to Roxy that I had left it in one of the stores and ran out. I did a good mix of saying prayers and mentally kicking myself as I ran down the street. As I approached the store I could see the bench, which had a full length window to the street, and IT WAS STILL THERE!!!! I was so very relieved; I couldn’t even fathom having lost the camera and all that day’s pics. Whew!

I walked back while waiting for my heart rate to return to normal. By the time I got back they were ready to seat us. We got a TV Table for two – yay! Roxy took a couple of pics of me ready to eat some good grub :-]
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-936.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-937.JPG

Then Mom came in and got us going. I immediately got busted for not being respectful and having elbows on the table. She forgave me and was nice enough to take a pic of the two of us.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-938.JPG

We ordered with Roxy getting the lettuce wedge and meatloaf and me getting the onion rings and tuna casserole. We very much enjoyed the 50s TV show clips, they were a lot of fun. And we didn’t work all the way through the rotation until dessert time.

Here’s a pic of Roxy looking satisfied after her meal.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-939.JPG

And here’s me looking over the dessert selections
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-940.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-941.JPG

Roxy ordered some sort of smores dessert and I had the 50’s Boston Cream Parfait …because everybody likes parfaits, right?

When dessert came out mama fitted me with my birthday hat :-D
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-942.JPG

And everybody sang!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-943.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-944.JPG

Mama said I was a good boy and could have my dessert now
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-945.JPG

We reluctantly finished up and were heading out when Roxy spotted this little napkin artistry
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-946.JPG

I had to get a pic of the fridge – darned focus!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-947.JPG

We were about to leave when I remembered that Bean had said mommy had to pull the rope next to Indy. She was a good sport and went over there. There was a big crowd there waiting to go into the show with a passel of teenage boys right next to the rope.

She pulled and nothing happened!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-948.JPG

She pulled again, nothing
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-949.JPG

The boys started chanting to pull it harder and she ended up really yanking on it and it finally spoke to her – lol.

By now it was approaching 7pm and we thought about ‘Fantasmic!’ I had seen it twice last time and Roxy had seen it once and we decided that it just wasn’t worth the wait and the crowds. Our last two days had pretty much wiped us out. So we started heading out, stopping for one quick shot in front of the sorcerer hat
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-951.JPG

We strolled out and found a bus waiting for us. We got on with a nice lady who was using a rented ECV. Roxy started talking to her about what she thought of it and what was involved in renting one. Roxy’s ankles had swollen quite a bit after today’s activities and it was clear that she wouldn’t be able to just keep walking around the parks. By the time we got back to POP I had the number and called them as we walked. Before we had even made it to our room we had one scheduled to be there for us tomorrow morning!

Right before our room we saw a widdle bunny wabbit
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-952.JPG

We went up to our room and took a quick rinse-off and put on our swim suits and hit the pool. We had a nice time as it was still warm but not overly hot anymore. We swam for a while and just relaxed and then had a nice conversation with one of the lifeguards. She was part of the college program and was very much enjoying her work there, but wished it wasn’t quite so hot. We agreed completely – lol. She asked us if we were having a good time at POP and we said that we were extremely happy here and especially loved the bed. She told us about the renovations they had done and how POP had gotten the beds from one of the Port Orleans resorts – w00t!

We said goodnight to her and headed up to our room and were in bed and asleep by just after 9pm.

What would tomorrow bring? More studios to tour!

Click here to view the next chapter: EPCOT Day Photopass Pics (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41366689&postcount=227)

Trentmom

06-01-2011, 04:08 PM

GeminiAngel

06-02-2011, 08:41 AM

I never got to do the backlot tour. both times we went it was closed.
Great pictures of it!

The dishes behind the napkin art are $$$$! Desert Rose, Francisican dinnerware. Very nice.

I made an adr for 50's last trip, hubby made me cancel it. He was afraid of the interaction. :rotfl: Not a spotlight person at all.

Poor Roxy's ankles. I hate when real life gets in the way.

Looking forward to more! :cool1:

cherbear

06-02-2011, 01:35 PM

my goodness Mike, you're just churning them out!!!

I most certainly have forgotten most of the comments in my head as I read the last 3 updates, but I'll try! LOL

I was also chosen as an extra in the Indy show...I think it was on our 2008 visit. That was fun!! Great job on Roxy's part in helping you get picked!!

You now need to head back again, and try to get in line early for a backlot tour time, and get chosen to be in the scene! I did that back in my teens, and it was awesome fun!! My friend and I were the "crew", and my grandpa was the captain. I discussed with my friend a couple things we should do. Everyone laughed SO hard when I pretended to freak out at the bombs around us and jump into my friends arms! I think we did a pretty decent acting job :rotfl:

Next time, you must try the Marsha's martian at Sci Fi (alcoholic drink...well more like a milkshake LOL)...it's fantastic!
I love the girls faces behind you in the pic. LOL

Hmm...forgot what else I wanted to say! Your pics are just wonderful though, keep them coming!

mnmrmustard

06-02-2011, 08:31 PM

Yay, another update. I didnt realize there was one after Indy.

Backlot tour, another classic. Glad u got to see the full show this time. IT is kind of boring if they don't have the beginning show with volunteers:goodvibes

5 bags., wow...you must have gotten some goodies :thumbsup2

so, glad you found your camera. That would have been awful :goodvibes

Nice Birthday hat :rotfl2:

Glad Roxy rented a scooter. I bet that will bring her much relief for the rest of your trip :)

Yes, sorry - I realized I hadn't updated the main title and put in the links for the end.

Yup, I like the backlot tour and watching the extras act out the scene added something to the whole thing.

Got lots of goodies for the girls that day :)

I was so relieved to find the camera, it would have messed up the trip for sure!

I know, I was stylin' with that hat :lmao:

Yes, getting the scooter made a BIG difference!

I never got to do the backlot tour. both times we went it was closed.
Great pictures of it!

The dishes behind the napkin art are $$$$! Desert Rose, Francisican dinnerware. Very nice.

I made an adr for 50's last trip, hubby made me cancel it. He was afraid of the interaction. :rotfl: Not a spotlight person at all.

Poor Roxy's ankles. I hate when real life gets in the way.

Looking forward to more! :cool1:

Oh bummer, hopefully the backlot tour will be open next time you are there. Happy to share our experience on it!

I never even noticed the dishes in that cabinet - good eye :thumbsup2

I hope your hubby comes around on a futuer visit so you can experience 50s Prime Time, it was a lot of fun. You can always ask the server to not do a big interaction and you can watch the fun at other tables :goodvibes

Yes, her ankles were hurting pretty bad by the end of the day. As I said above, the scooter made all the difference.

my goodness Mike, you're just churning them out!!!

I most certainly have forgotten most of the comments in my head as I read the last 3 updates, but I'll try! LOL

I was also chosen as an extra in the Indy show...I think it was on our 2008 visit. That was fun!! Great job on Roxy's part in helping you get picked!!

You now need to head back again, and try to get in line early for a backlot tour time, and get chosen to be in the scene! I did that back in my teens, and it was awesome fun!! My friend and I were the "crew", and my grandpa was the captain. I discussed with my friend a couple things we should do. Everyone laughed SO hard when I pretended to freak out at the bombs around us and jump into my friends arms! I think we did a pretty decent acting job :rotfl:

Next time, you must try the Marsha's martian at Sci Fi (alcoholic drink...well more like a milkshake LOL)...it's fantastic!
I love the girls faces behind you in the pic. LOL

Hmm...forgot what else I wanted to say! Your pics are just wonderful though, keep them coming!

I do that too, start thinking of things to say but then get further into the story and realize I've forgotten some of it :confused: :laughing:

I remember you talking about being an extra, it was one of the reasons I wanted to since you had so much fun doing it :) Yes, Roxy was a big help in getting me noticed :goodvibes

Yes, now I have to get myself splashed in Pearl Harbor! LOLOL That is great that you got to do that too, and with your grandpa no less :thumbsup2 I'm sure that is a memory that will last a lifetime.

I'll try the Marsha's martian next time. And yes, weren't they tickled to be in our pics :rotfl2:

Well I got my photopass CD in and am going thru those pics now. Once I have them sorted I'll just post the EPCOT and DHS ones on their own. I'll of course integrate the rest into the TR days for MK and AK :woohoo:

Yoiks, and away!

mnmrmustard

06-05-2011, 11:05 AM

Here's the pics from our EPCOT Day. The Photopass order came with some bonus F&G pictures to start with.

Donald
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-953.JPG

Pooh
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The entrance with SE, the Monorail, and Buzz & Friends
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A close-up of Woody, where are his eyes???
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-960.JPG

Welcome!
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Bambi
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Beast and Beauty
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-958.JPG

Tink
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-959.JPG

Our Disney pals
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-961.JPG

Pan is pursued by Hook, who is pursued by that big ole croc
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-962.JPG

Roxy and I at the entrance
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Roxy and I on the other side of SE with the fountains in the background
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Me with Aurora
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Me with Belle
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-971.JPG

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Roxy getting a hug from Pooh
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-973.JPG

Us with Pooh
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Us with France in the background
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Us with America in the background
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And finally an exhausted us on the way out thankfully sitting with TS3 and SE in the background
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-979.JPG

Click here for the next chapter: DHS Day Photopass Pics (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41366743&postcount=228)

mnmrmustard

06-05-2011, 11:11 AM

Here we are just coming in to DHS
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Saying 'hi' to Lightning and Mater
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Mickey Kiss
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HIIIII MICKEY!
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Us with Mickey
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A couple of solo Sorcerer Mickey pics
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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-988.JPG

And finally us on our way out ...look, I finally remembered to take my blinkin' sunglasses off for a picture!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-990.JPG

Next up, we're back to the Wizarding World!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 5 Part 1 - All Around the Universe ...al (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41740893&postcount=238)

Trentmom

06-05-2011, 11:32 AM

Love your photo pass pics

They are so vibrant

That is neat how they throw in additional pictures of their own for you.

:wizard:

Lifelong_Dreamer

06-05-2011, 02:26 PM

I thought I had subscribed to this but I guess not! Making sure that I am now so I don't miss out. :goodvibes

mnmrmustard

06-06-2011, 04:32 PM

Love your photo pass pics

They are so vibrant

That is neat how they throw in additional pictures of their own for you.

:wizard:

Thanks Kelly, I thought they were a cool addition :thumbsup2

I thought I had subscribed to this but I guess not! Making sure that I am now so I don't miss out. :goodvibes

Welcome Lessa, glad to have you on board :goodvibes

cherbear

06-07-2011, 09:06 AM

I'm stockpiling Disney photos for backgrounds, off of your TR! Thanks to you, I'll have enough WDW backgrounds for my office computer for a long while...yay!

mnmrmustard

06-07-2011, 03:40 PM

I'm stockpiling Disney photos for backgrounds, off of your TR! Thanks to you, I'll have enough WDW backgrounds for my office computer for a long while...yay!

Well cool! And remember, if you want higher resolution versions of any of them let me know. The ones I put up here are less than 600x400 to save loading time on the TR ;)

Leger13

06-12-2011, 03:19 PM

Just wanted to let you know that I came by and read some! I LOVE your pictures and such about Islands of Adventure. I REALLY want to go there now! We only hit the other side last time. I think this time we might have to hit up Islands. Not sure how I'm going to go about convincing the hubs.

Either way, that's where I got to. Next time I'm here I'll read about the F&G fest at EPCOT. Gotta go feed the little guy. Loving your report!

Marshay

06-12-2011, 08:12 PM

Caught up!

Cool that you got to ride RNR 3x in a row! I love that ride.

Your photos from the Little Mermaid are wonderful! I felt like I just watched the entire show tonight.

So funny about you and Mrs. Incredible kissing and then Mr. I and Roxy and Mr. I explaining to Mrs. I. -- Loved it!

That sure was a lot of water -- both the 2nd wave with the volunteer and the catastrophe canyon photos. I'd lov to be a volunteer sometime...guess I need to get to the show early sometime.

The pics of the split Herbie were neat to see.

Sooo glad you found your camera!

OK, what does the 'voice' at the Indy Rope say? This is something I have never heard of before.

And that's why I tell my friends -- I've gone to WDW over 30 times and STILL haven't seen and done everything nor know everything! Always a reason to go back!

DizFan101

06-12-2011, 08:19 PM

right now it is 9:18pm on Sunday June 12th and i'm starting to read your report. I totally love reports with loads of pictures. :). But i'm reading all the same. We too stay at the Pop Century (my mom and I). soo much fun.

hmm. that's about it. i'm posting so i can save the link to your report.
:) (There's probably a way to keep it in tact to be able to read it later but i'm not too computer savy.)

mnmrmustard

07-06-2011, 03:06 PM

Hey everyone. I'm still alive but was buried in year end. Finally made it past that and the 4th holiday and am ready to get back on track with this beast of a TR! :cool1:

Just wanted to let you know that I came by and read some! I LOVE your pictures and such about Islands of Adventure. I REALLY want to go there now! We only hit the other side last time. I think this time we might have to hit up Islands. Not sure how I'm going to go about convincing the hubs.

Either way, that's where I got to. Next time I'm here I'll read about the F&G fest at EPCOT. Gotta go feed the little guy. Loving your report!

Hey Carla! Well good deal for you because I just went through a BUNCH more (500+) pics from our second day at Universal. Getting ready to post that now :thumbsup2

Good luck convincing your hubby - now you'll have pics from both sides of the park to get him interested ;)

Caught up!

Cool that you got to ride RNR 3x in a row! I love that ride.

Hey Marsha! Glad you were able to get caught up :) Yes, we love our RnRC! Front row every time :woohoo:

Your photos from the Little Mermaid are wonderful! I felt like I just watched the entire show tonight.

Thank you!

So funny about you and Mrs. Incredible kissing and then Mr. I and Roxy and Mr. I explaining to Mrs. I. -- Loved it!

Oh yes, they were great, totally made a show of it :lmao:

That sure was a lot of water -- both the 2nd wave with the volunteer and the catastrophe canyon photos. I'd lov to be a volunteer sometime...guess I need to get to the show early sometime.

The pics of the split Herbie were neat to see.

Yes, gobs of water, it looked very refreshing from my perspective. That is a goal of mine too, I want to be an extra everywhere I can. Wasn't Herbie cute?

Sooo glad you found your camera!

OK, what does the 'voice' at the Indy Rope say? This is something I have never heard of before.

And that's why I tell my friends -- I've gone to WDW over 30 times and STILL haven't seen and done everything nor know everything! Always a reason to go back!

Yes, I was so very relieved that I had some good Disney mojo protecting my camera :goodvibes

When you pull the rope it basically tells you to stop/please don't. Glad to give you another reason to go back :yay:

right now it is 9:18pm on Sunday June 12th and i'm starting to read your report. I totally love reports with loads of pictures. :). But i'm reading all the same. We too stay at the Pop Century (my mom and I). soo much fun.

hmm. that's about it. i'm posting so i can save the link to your report.
:) (There's probably a way to keep it in tact to be able to read it later but i'm not too computer savy.)

Hiya! Thank you for stopping by and sorry for letting the thread die off right as you jumped on board. I promise to get some new content on here right away!

POP was so much fun, I'm so happy we chose it. Glad you have fun staying there too.

OKAY! ON WITH THE TR!!!!! :banana: :dance3: :banana: :dance3: :banana:

mnmrmustard

07-06-2011, 03:48 PM

We had gotten to sleep the night before around 9pm so the alarm going off at 7:30am wasn’t all that bad. I got up and took my “wake-up” shower and headed down to check on Roxy’s rootin’ tootin’ hot rod scooter that I had ordered the night before. I went down and saw our name on one right away. Picking it up was a breeze and I drove it back to the 50s area and up to our room.

Roxy had gotten up and showered by then and was getting dressed. Her ankles were still very swollen so we were very glad to have the ECV. We did the sunscreen thing and loaded up and headed out the door. It was going to be another 90+ degree day with no clouds to shade us.

We went down to the food court and had enough time to sit down and eat. We had a nice breakfast and headed out to the main entrance to the lobby where the MEARS bus comes and didn’t have to wait long before it rolled up. I had contacted MEARS the night before to make sure that they knew we were bringing an ECV and they said no problem. Apparently nobody told the driver but he dealt with it okay and loaded it into the cargo area.

We rolled out of the WDW complex, waving good bye to Mickey for the day
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-991.JPG

This driver was an Orlando trivia expert and filled us in on little tidbits about different landmarks and resorts that we passed. He had that tour guide flair that I at once enjoyed and was thankful that we weren’t taking an extended trip. We made it to Universal and waited patiently for the bus to unload and for him to get the ECV out. Soon enough we had made it upstairs and past security.

I was on the mobile walkway and Roxy opened her up next to me and left me in the dust – zoom!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-992.JPG

I had her stop at the entrance to City Walk for a quick pic to show off her ‘ride’
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It was only 9:15am but you could already feel the heat coming on. At least the crowds weren’t bad as we made our way thru City Walk
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We took a left and headed back towards Islands, wanting to hit Hogwarts before the crowd got too thick. I took a quick shot of the Hard Rock as we headed towards the entrance to Islands
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-995.JPG

Thar she blows!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-996.JPG

We made it thru ticketing very quickly and were soon on our way towards the land that J. K. Rowling made. We walked past Poseidon’s Fury and saw that it was down again.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-997.JPG

I wasn’t heartbroken about that since we were there for more Wizarding fun! I did slap together this collage to give some perspective on the size of Poseidon’s trident
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-998.JPG

We came into the Wizarding World around 9:30am and were very happy to find it not too crowded. We passed thru the gates, giving a quick wave to the winged hog thing guarding it. Only a 20 minute wait, and that is mostly just the time it takes to really take in the castle as you walk
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Looking up we found Hogwarts looming large above us
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Hogwarts Looms Large (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1000p.JPG)

We quickly walked up the path to the underground entrance
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1001.JPG

Now last time I packed the camera away into a locker. NO WAY I was going to do that this time!!! So here we go on our photographic tour of Hogwarts Castle!

The first thing you come across after the locker area is the Mirror of Erised
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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1003.JPG

No phantom images of me holding a lifetime pass to WDW, but still cool to stand in front of ;-D

We then stumbled across this character; don’t remember who he was supposed to be
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Then the path took us by a couple of doors to other areas.

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I wanted to poke my head in and see what was going on in Potions, but it was not meant to be. You then take a turn and pass a beverage cart, sadly closed still due to the early hour.

And then on to the greenhouse.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1007.JPG

We had to leave Roxy’s scooter at the entrance but she was still in good spirits to be back in Hogwarts
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1008.JPG

Here is a panorama of the greenhouse queue
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1009.JPG

Large Panorama of the Greenhouse (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1009p.JPG)

Some of the plants were real, and fit the theme very well
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Others were a mix of real and fake
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1011.JPG

From the side of the greenhouse closest to the entrance you could look up and see the back side of some of the towers
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1012.JPG

Shots of the more interesting species kept in the greenhouse
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Coming up we explore the interior of Hogwarts!

Click here to view the next chapter: Day 5 Part 2 – Into the Depths of Hogwarts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41741259&postcount=239)

mnmrmustard

07-06-2011, 04:18 PM

A couple more shots of the flora in the greenhouse
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And then we turned the corner and were inside the castle proper. We were greeted by a statue of Godric Gryffindor
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1018.JPG

Beyond him was the setup that kept track of which house was winning for the year, of course Gryffindor was way ahead.
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And this of course is Salazar Slytherin
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For anyone who has seen the movies, here is the unmistakable entrance to Dumbledoor’s office
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Sadly you couldn’t use it to go anywhere. It was still very cool to see. Around the bend was a unicorn tapestry
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It lead to a hallway and the first of the living pictures
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A tapestry map of the school
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And beyond it was a main hall with multiple animated portraits. Sorry about the low light, it was the only way to capture them without the flash completely washing them out.
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You can just make out Salazar in this one
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Salazar was in an argument with the lady in the portrait in the bottom center of this picture
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From the hall you go into an area with high walls. On one side are more pictures surrounding windows
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Below them are a series of display cases holding all manner of gadgetry
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Then we came across the Pensieve
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It was very cool to see so many props from the movies brought to life.

Next up we meet Dumbledore and go deeper into the castle

click here to view the next chapter: Day 5 Part 3 – Dumbledore and Serious Studies (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41754813&postcount=243)

kaoden39

07-06-2011, 04:23 PM

Love the greenhouse!!

Lifelong_Dreamer

07-06-2011, 04:43 PM

Great Hogwarts pictures, it is a tricky place to photograph.

mnmrmustard

07-07-2011, 02:54 PM

Love the greenhouse!!

It is pretty cool as far as theming and does a good job providing shade. That was the downside of the Wizarding World is that other events/attractions in that area didn't offer much in the way of shade.

Great Hogwarts pictures, it is a tricky place to photograph.

Thank you very much Lessa! I'm going to have to go in there with a monopod or something so I can steady the camera and get longer exposures. The ones I tried hand-held just turned out blurry :confused3

mnmrmustard

07-07-2011, 03:42 PM

Right after the Pensieve is Dumbledore’s office; here is a shot with the flash on
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1041.JPG

…and a couple with the flash off so you can actually see Dumbledore. He welcomes us to Hogwarts and talks about varied info about the school
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The bookcase with no flash
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1045.JPG

…and one with the flash on to get some detail of the room
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1046.JPG

From his office you wind around a corner into the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. They have the sides of the classroom lined with books and artifacts
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Hanging above is the skeleton of a dragon
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Here’s the front of the classroom with the balcony. Harry, Hermione and Ron come out and tell you about sneaking you out of class for the ride up there. Ron also tries to do some magic, which will alternately cause a lightning storm or make it start to snow in the classroom. The lightning is cool but everyone ‘oooh’d and ahhhh’d’ over the snow.
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More artifacts, they love their skulls here
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A cool telescope and other apparatus
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Here is a shot of the trio talking to us, they sneak in an out using Harry’s cloak
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Here’s a slightly fuzzy close-up of them
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And the door they sneak in and out of the classroom thru
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Some of the curriculum on a blackboard
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More gadgets and artifacts
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Next up we wrap up our journey thru the castle and take a thrilling ride!

click here to view the next chapter: Day 5 Part 4 – From the Classroom to the Skies! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41833224&postcount=249)

kaoden39

07-07-2011, 03:44 PM

That is so cool!! I would love that.

cherbear

07-08-2011, 12:54 PM

loving the pics...thanks for the update!

lovebuzzandwoody

07-08-2011, 05:13 PM

Thank you so much for the tour of Hogwarts, Mike! I gotta go there! Love me some Harry Potter!

Trentmom

07-08-2011, 06:37 PM

Looks like Roxie had a nice ride :thumbsup2

Pictures are great. It really looks amazing there :wizard:

mnmrmustard

07-13-2011, 02:23 PM

That is so cool!! I would love that.

It is worth going to at least once, even if you go just for Harry Potter and nothing else :thumbsup2

loving the pics...thanks for the update!

Hey Cheri! Happy to see you stop by, glad you're enjoying the pics :)

Thank you so much for the tour of Hogwarts, Mike! I gotta go there! Love me some Harry Potter!

You're very welcome Nicole, I'll have some more up in just a bit!

Looks like Roxie had a nice ride :thumbsup2

Pictures are great. It really looks amazing there :wizard:

Yes, it was a great scooter, never had issues with it running low or bogging down. Thank you on the pics Kelly, more to come :goodvibes

mnmrmustard

07-13-2011, 02:55 PM

One more artifact
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1067.JPG

As we were leaving the classroom I took a shot to get a front view of the hanging dragon
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1066.JPG

You leave the classroom and go around a corner. They had a cool stained glass window and what was made to look like corridors leading off to other parts of the castle
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1068.JPG

Ahead on the left you find “The Fat Lady” who guards access to the Gryffindor common room. She takes turns being still and being very talkative
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Past her was a closet of school gear
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And a bulletin board which included a copy of the Daily Prophet
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As you can see from these pics, the picture in the Prophet is a live sequence showing Harry playing Quidditch. Nice tidbit to add more authenticity to the place.
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http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1074.JPG

Then next room was set to look like the Gryffindor commons. More talking paintings of course
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The fireplace where Harry spoke with the ash projection of Sirius Black
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Sitting area
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Some books and games
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Stairwell leading up to their sleeping quarters
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From there we went down a long hallway, Roxy took the lead because she could see a familiar object ahead
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1082.JPG

And there it was, Roxy had found the sorting hat!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1084.JPG

It had a lot to say so we stopped to listen for a minute
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1083.JPG

After that you are in the last of the queue for the ride. No pictures allowed on the ride of course. I usually just strap my camera over my shoulder and hug it to me on rides such as this. The attendant however must have had VERY strict instructions about cameras and came after me, making me struggle to get the strap back off so he could take it. It was close but he got it.

The ride is a blast as I said before. Great mix of immersive 3D video and large scale active sets that you spin and swoop through.

We came out and right into the gift shop. I say again that this gift shop needs to be about twice the size that it currently is. It is waaaayyyy too crowded in there! We picked up some pins for the girls and I looked for a t-shirt but didn’t find a design I liked in there. We headed out the door and I had a slightly different angle on the castle so had to take a shot
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1085.JPG

Another Hogwarts Panorama (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1085p.JPG)

We walked back down towards the village and took some pics for a panorama. It turned out pretty interesting
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1086.JPG

Village Panorama Large (http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1086p.JPG)

As you can see, the crowds weren’t near as bad despite the fact that this was a weekend.
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1087.JPG

We wanted to get the thrill rides out of the way so we headed straight for The Dragon Challenge (formerly Dueling Dragons when we were last at Islands). They have lockers in between the ride entrance and the Hogwarts Express. We stashed everything …except my camera. I wasn’t going to miss anymore theming.

This tactic paid off as I immediately was given a better view of the castle
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1088.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1089.JPG

And the little roller coaster next to it
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1090.JPG

Next up we take a tour through the Dueling Dragons castle – AKA Hogwarts Part II

click here to view the next chapter: Day 5 Part 5 – Dragon Challenge AKA Hogwarts Part II (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41833508&postcount=250)

mnmrmustard

07-13-2011, 03:16 PM

We were heading up the path to the Dragon Challenge (it is a bit of an uphill walk as a warning). There is a nice viewing spot for the castle where I had been taking pics. I took one last shot showcasing both the castle and the Gryffon coaster
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1091.JPG

From there you travel up the path until it levels up. You are then greeted by Ron’s runaway car
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1092.JPG

It even flashes its lights and honks and stuff – lol
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1093.JPG

Off to the left was Hagrid’s shack
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1094.JPG

Around the bend was the entrance to the Trwizard Challenge “tent” area as seen in The Goblet of Fire
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1095.JPG

Inside the first thing you see is the goblet the students threw their names in to compete
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1096.JPG

More props to give the place that authentic feel
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1097.JPG

A bed to sack out in with your broom nearby
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1098.JPG

From this angle you can see that they even had the blue flame effect going, just like in the movie
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1099.JPG

You then head down a corridor and at a turn-around are greeted by the Triwizard cup itself!
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1100.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1101.JPG

More winding took us to the ‘eggs’ that were used in the competition. Too bad Moaning Myrtle wasn’t there to show us how to use them

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1102.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1103.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1104.JPG

Around the bend from there was one of my favorite spots, the candle mock-up from the dining hall. With a flash you can see the candles suspended
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1105.JPG

With no flash and a longer exposure you can see the actual candle light
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1106.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1107.JPG

On the walls on either side were a series of tapestries, I think from the original Dueling Dragons days despite the overlay of Hogwarts crests
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1108.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1109.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1110.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1111.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1112.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1113.JPG

Once at the other end I just had to take a couple more shots of the floating candles
http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1114.JPG

http://ronin.roguecc.edu/Orlando2011/WDW2011-1115.JPG

Next up, we decide our fate, meet a surprise character, and buy our way from Hogwarts to Whoville!

Click here for the next chapter: Day 5 Part 6 – Riding Dragons, Wizardly Shopping, and On to Seuss Landing (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41894914&postcount=261)