That Mickey sure is one smart cookie!! May 2011 CBR TR (update 06/01))

[lbuzz52]

The meaning behind my title will be discussed within this report. But first, I'd like to discuss what i didn't name it.

I thought long and hard about what I was going to name this trip report. I considered named it "The Sea Witch Stole my Voice". But I was afraid the meaning behind it would have a slightly negative connotation towards me.

I can't deny that I raise my voice at my kids. A LOT. But on this trip, something must have been in the air- maybe you could call it a customary pre-vacation threat.:rotfl2: ("if you don't behave, I promise we will leave the parks and go back to the room").

But I'd rather call it Vacation Pixie Dust. :wizard: A bit of good luck and a lot of good attitude. I can't say that my children were perfect (or myself. Or my husband).

But for some reason something was clicking for us, and no bad behavior and no bad attitude stuck around for more than a minute. It was like some sweet little Pixie was sitting on our shoulders, whispering in our ears every time we started to stumble. "Hold on a minute, you are at the happiest place on Earth. Shake it off!"

We spent 9 days and 8 nights on this vacation, and wore ourselves out in record heat. Yet there were no major meltdowns, I don't *think* anyone called someone else a string of words under their breathe, and I was able to refrain from yelling. Something was definitely in the air, and it had everything going our way!




TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introductions (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41311725&postcount=2)

Monday, May 9th
The Day Before the Magic Began (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41325981&postcount=12)

Tuesday, May 10th
The Day of Multiple Transportation Methods
Part 1. 32 ounces. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41337540&postcount=23)
Part 2. The Path to Jamaica, Mon. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41378761&postcount=43)
Part 3. Wet Pirates (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41381607&postcount=47)
Part 4. Naptime and Tiki Men (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41406531&postcount=64)
Part 5. Mickey must have missed us! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41428679&postcount=77)

Wednesday, May 11th
The Day Grumpy Grows Up
Part 1a. I'm not getting out of this stroller! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41466204&postcount=91)
Part 1b. I'm not getting in this stroller! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41466297&postcount=92)
Part 2. "Pooh Baayer" and a Prince. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41499799&postcount=110)
Part 3a. Any Dream is Possible (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41543720&postcount=137)
Part 3b. Any Dream Is Possible cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41543728&postcount=138)
Part 4. Minnie brings some Harmony (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41576091&postcount=158)
Part 5a. Plenty of Princesses (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41599494&postcount=172)
Part 5b. Plenty of Princesses cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41599502&postcount=173)
Part 6. And I shall call him Duck Duck (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41661642&postcount=204)

Thursday, May 12th
The Day We Save the World
Part 1. "Oh, Oh, Oh. It's Magic" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41741734&postcount=224)
Part 2. A Maritime Morning. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41803766&postcount=237)
Part 3. This Playground is not for adults! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41846095&postcount=245)
Part 4a. Bad Guys at Disney? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41916117&postcount=262)
Part 4b. Bad Guys at Disney? cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41917797&postcount=264)
Part 5. What a Fancy Drink Holder! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41975293&postcount=283)

Friday, May 13th
The Day of Sudden Bravery
Part 1. Jungle Juice and Tator Tots (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42071468&postcount=315)
Part 2. Lion-King-Esque (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42195452&postcount=344)
Part 3. Conquering the Yeti. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42224022&postcount=351)
Part 4. I can ride by myself. (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=42290619#post42290619)
Part 5. Thanksgiving. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42358866&postcount=391)
Part 6. A Castle and a Flag (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42436604&postcount=402)

Saturday, May 14th
The Day of Caribbean Exploration
Part 1. What's for breakfast? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42483406&postcount=416)
Part 2. Keep the Drama Away From Momma. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42602264&postcount=429)
Part 2. Keep the Drama Away From Momma Cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42602278&postcount=430)
Part 3. A Windy Wait. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42693993&postcount=437)
Part 4a. A Fare Time (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42770278&postcount=452)
Part 4b. A Fare Time Cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42770278&postcount=453)
Part 5. A Pirate's Life For Me (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42803774&postcount=462)
Part 6a. Thousands of Sparkling Lights (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42914539&postcount=482)
Part 6b. Thousands of Sparkling Lights cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42914554&postcount=483)

Sunday, May 15th
The Day of Royal Transformation
Part 1a. The Only Morning Daddy has EVER Allowed Makeup (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43018953&postcount=495)
Part 1b. Photopass Pitcures from Makeup Morning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43018996&postcount=496)
Part 2. Sparkling Smiles. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44515840&postcount=530)
Part 3. A World of Shopping. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44557823&postcount=548)
Part 4. Parading towards Earl's (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44577255&postcount=556)
Part 5. Pixar or Bust (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44577291&postcount=557)
Part 6. A leisurely dinner of Flying Fish (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44636108&postcount=566)

Monday, May 16th
The Day of the Dragon
Part 1. Buzzing through our morning (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=44678448#post44678448)
Part 2. Woody & Buzz (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44700206&postcount=579)
Part 3. Snoozin' Under the Sea (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=44859108#post44859108)
Part 4a Peanut Butter, Parades, and more Pixar (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=44922860#post44922860)
Part 4b. Peanut Butter, Parades, and more Pixar (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=44922918#post44922918)
Part 5. Thirty minutes of character bliss (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44979364&postcount=603)
Part 6. Dragons and Doubloons (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45054150&postcount=618)

Photopass catchup
Day 2. MK (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42117227&postcount=324)
Day 2. MK cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42117385&postcount=325)
Day 2. MK cont again (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42272227&postcount=364)
Day 3. Epcot (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42476461&postcount=412)
Day 3. Epcot cont. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42476548&postcount=413)

Misc.
Toothy (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41465032&postcount=90)
Kindy (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41662176&postcount=206)
Winnie the Pooh- James' first movie! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41934813&postcount=273)
The Growth of Maya (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42034042&postcount=302)
A Difficult Cake (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42070397&postcount=313)
Chasing at Kindergarten (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42270789&postcount=360)
Happy Halloween Everyone! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43114038&postcount=517)
James is Three/ Catch-up (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44515811&postcount=529)

[lbuzz52]

My family as a whole has been on one other trip to WDW, in October of 2009. However, we took that trip with my parents, sister, and nephew. So this was our first true family vacation! My husband and i work opposite schedules to minimize the need for sitters, so we were really looking forward to uninterrupted family time. It was much needed and long overdue.




Our travelers included myself, Lauren. I'm a 31 year old travel coordinator for a private family. Basically, I'm a travel agent and office manager, all rolled into one. I spend my days dreaming of palm trees while scheduling business trips and vacations for others.

I've been a Disney fan all my life, especially the things that were out when i was young. I can't count how many times I"ve seen Pete's Dragon or 101 Dalmations. And i completely miss the Disney channel of the late 80's/ early 90's- as in miss it bad enough to dig for clips on youtube. I went to Disneyworld three times as a kid, and have done two one-day trips to Disneyland. I believe Disney is a new adventure at every age and therefore needs to be explored thoroughly... and often.:goodvibes


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1425.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/Photopass%202009/Image0754.jpg



DH, Chris, is a new Disney fan, and i'm working on slowly converting him to a fanatic. Our trip in 2009 was his first to Disney. Eeyore has his heart, and even though he doesn't really understand why adults get character pictures, taking a picture with his childhood buddy was on his to-do list for this trip. My husband is an extremely hard worker with quite a commute, and we dont' get to spend enough time together. I am thankful each day that i married a chef, and I am sure that my children are glad i did too:rotfl2:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0822.jpg





Then there are my awesome children!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0871-1.jpg




Maya is 5 & 3/4. (Don't say 5, she'll correct you!) She handles all the extra duties that come with being a firstborn very well. She's a great helper, and a proud big sister. She's also as silly and as stubborn as they come. She's growing up quickly, and reminds me every day (case in point- her first loose tooth yesterday). She's a HUGE Ariel fan, and a HUGE Rapunzel fan. She still believes in all Disney Magic, and we had to get this trip in before we ran the risk of that changing.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0668-1.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0820.jpg





James turned 2 in January. He looks up to his dear sister. He wants to do everything she does, from play teeball to wear princess heels. And he thinks he can do everything she can do, which can get quite dangerous when it comes to things like riding bikes or scaling monkeybars:scared1: He is on a mommy kick right now and i am loving it! He loves all things with wheels, and will not sleep without a car or (ten) in his bed. He fell hard for Pooh Bear on our last trip, and has recently grown quite fond of Mi-hee (Mickey), I'm pretty sure he almost doubled his vocabulary on vacation with all the new things to see and people to meet.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0540.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/Photo0986James.jpg




We loved the weather and atmosphere during our last trip in October, but Maya starts kindergarden in August. My husband slept on the sidewalk overnight to get her into *the* good public school here, and we can't risk losing her spot by taking her out during her first year. We decided we would aim for late spring- avoiding the summer crowds. After checking our work schedules, April sounded like the best choice. That is, until we saw how late Easter was this year. The next best week was May 10th, right after Mother's day. We agreed on our dates and i began all the planning.

In the past, i had started planning a trip, only to not have it come to fruition. This was one of the main reasons why we decided to not to tell the kids until closer to trip time. About a month before we were supposed to leave, i thought this may happen again due to some unforseable changes with Chris's work & schedule. Thankfully, we were able to get it all worked out and go on as scheduled.

In the meantime, i had a hard time keeping my mouth shut. I brought Disney up almost everyday. But i always said things like "Maya, on our next trip to Disney, whenever that it, do you want to try XXX or YYY?" Before long she was saying, i wish we could go to Disney this year. I'd always say, not this year, but hopefully soon.

I was afraid that she was going to figure it out with my big mouth, so we told her we were going to the beach. This was not a total lie, as our hotel had a beach at it!

By Easter Sunday, we knew that we had things worked out and the trip was on. We decided to tell the kids! "Not only are you going to the beach, you are going to the beach at DISNEY!" Two weeks later, we left our house, destination Caribbean Beach Resort!

[mickeymouse108]

Hi this looks like it is going to be a great trip report nice to meet you and your lovely family. cant wait to hear why you named the trip "that mickey sure is one smart cookie!!!"

[photographymom517]

Great start to your TR, Lauren!!!! :thumbsup2

Your kids are too cute!!!! And I think its awesome that you & your husband work opposite shifts to minimize the need for a babysitter! It must be hard not to see each other much, but it is GREAT for the kids to have both of their parents around all the time!!! I completely look up to & respect parents that put their kids first!!! :goodvibes

I have no idea how you kept the secret of the trip for so long! I'm having a hard enough time keeping 1 little old tour a secret! LOL

I completely understand how you feel about changing plans -- we have that happen almost every year! Somehow it always manages to work out, but we always go through those stressful days where we just don't know any "definite" plans. :rolleyes:

I am really looking forward to hearing more about your trip!!!

Oh, and I also loooove the old Disney cartoons from the 80's/90's!!! I miss watching Duck Tales, Goof Troop, Rescue Rangers, and all the other great shows!!! My mom still has some of them on VHS but unfortunately, none of our VHS players work anymore! I might have the VHS tapes turned into a DVD someday so I can watch them! :)

[Lidian]

I'm here! Can't wait to read more! :goodvibes

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I thought long and hard about what I was going to name this trip report. I considered named it "The Sea Witch Stole my Voice". But I was afraid the meaning behind it would have a slightly negative connotation towards me.





Joining in!

:lmao: I actually named one of my trip reports this but I actually did lose my voice, I got sick while on a Disney Cruise!

Enjoying your report so far and looking forward to more! I love that there are so many May TR's out right now!

[lbuzz52]

Hi this looks like it is going to be a great trip report nice to meet you and your lovely family. cant wait to hear why you named the trip "that mickey sure is one smart cookie!!!"

:welcome: i hope you enjoy it! thanks for reading and for the compliments on my babies!

Great start to your TR, Lauren!!!! :thumbsup2

Your kids are too cute!!!! And I think its awesome that you & your husband work opposite shifts to minimize the need for a babysitter! It must be hard not to see each other much, but it is GREAT for the kids to have both of their parents around all the time!!! I completely look up to & respect parents that put their kids first!!! :goodvibes

i really appreciate this! we are lucky that both of our parents live in town too, so they help out once or twice a week when our work schedules overlap by a couple hours. They also volunteer to watch them so we go go on very infrequent date nights. my kids have never had a sitter. It does stink on a romantic level, but our kids are only young for a little while

I have no idea how you kept the secret of the trip for so long! I'm having a hard enough time keeping 1 little old tour a secret! LOL

i don't either. i know for a fact DH was sick of hearing about the trip:lmao: i think i'm behind on your PTR, because i'm not sure what you are talking about with this tour.

I completely understand how you feel about changing plans -- we have that happen almost every year! Somehow it always manages to work out, but we always go through those stressful days where we just don't know any "definite" plans. :rolleyes:

it isn't any fun at all when that happens. i thought we were going to have it happen again. This one was double frustrating to me. Dh told the hotel about the trip when they hired him last year. They came after him, he told them he had a vacation planned. then to tell him we dont know if you can go and make him wait a month? if he had not one that award i'm not sure if they would have granted it or not.


I am really looking forward to hearing more about your trip!!!

Oh, and I also loooove the old Disney cartoons from the 80's/90's!!! I miss watching Duck Tales, Goof Troop, Rescue Rangers, and all the other great shows!!! My mom still has some of them on VHS but unfortunately, none of our VHS players work anymore! I might have the VHS tapes turned into a DVD someday so I can watch them! :)

I'm so glad that you can sympathize with the Disney Channel cartoons. i am starting to feel old when i start conversations with "remember when Disney channel played cartoons with the fab 5?" or "remember when MTV played music?"

Remember any of the shows that used costumed characters- like Pooh's Corner, or Dumbo's Circus or Mousercize?

I get a kick out of the old come to Disney World commercials. i remember them, and its so strange to see how they have changed!

I'm here! Can't wait to read more! :goodvibes


Glad you are here! :yay:I wonder how many other similarities our trip will have, besides the Yeah-Yah driver




Joining in!

:lmao: I actually named one of my trip reports this but I actually did lose my voice, I got sick while on a Disney Cruise!

Enjoying your report so far and looking forward to more! I love that there are so many May TR's out right now!


:welcome:

That's so funny that you had one named that! That would stink to loose your voice!
You were May too? i'll have to make it over to your new report. where did you stay?

[LeeLee'sMom]

Your kids are adorable. My 5 year-old DD starts kindergarten this September also..so we are going 8/26-9/2 and staying at CBR. We have never stayed at this mod. before so dying to try it out. The pool area looks great for her. BTW my DD lost her first tooth Monday, Memorial Day...will be easy to remember...LOL

can't wait to read more about your vacation..:thumbsup2

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:welcome:

That's so funny that you had one named that! That would stink to loose your voice!
You were May too? i'll have to make it over to your new report. where did you stay?

Yep, we were there for two weeks, stayed at Coronado Springs. :thumbsup2 Had a great time.

[lbuzz52]

Your kids are adorable. My 5 year-old DD starts kindergarten this September also..so we are going 8/26-9/2 and staying at CBR. We have never stayed at this mod. before so dying to try it out. The pool area looks great for her. BTW my DD lost her first tooth Monday, Memorial Day...will be easy to remember...LOL

can't wait to read more about your vacation..:thumbsup2


:welcome:

you are lucky to have such a late start date! ours starts Aug 6th. I'll detail our opinions on the resort during the report- but i will say that we would go back. there was a lot to do when we were at the resort.

so what is the going tooth fairy rate these days anyway? Maya seems to think this is a big accomplishment what aobut your dd?

Yep, we were there for two weeks, stayed at Coronado Springs. :thumbsup2 Had a great time.

oh how i wish that my dh would agree to 2 full weeks! i have to say, i think your trip title is VERY appropriate!

[lbuzz52]

i have an update coming shortly- but first i have two questions.

1) is there a trick to changing the colors in your signature? i've tried and its not
working.

2) its been a long while since i took English, and this question is something I
need to know forever. when a name ends in s, how do you show
possession? is it
James' OR
James's


thanks!

[lbuzz52]

I was so excited the day before we left!



It was a pretty busy day. i know this is probably a disgrace to most DIS members, but I had some packing left to do.

Chris laughs at me when i pack. To him, its all sporatic and random. He asks why don't you just pack the clothes together and the other junk together?

There is, in fact, a reason for it all.

I tend to bring one of everything I could possibly need and then usually throw another in for good measure. We brought a shirt for every day and then a couple extras. We brought enough bottoms and pjs to wash mid week. The kids had some extra bottoms because some of their clothing was outfits and not separates. I'm not going to detail my whole packing list- but it was three pages.

We took 2 large suitcases to check, plus 2 rolling carryons, a backpack, a diaper bag, and 2 strollers. This may sound like a lot- but in my defense, it was 4 people for 9 days with no car. One carry-on had everything we needed for the travel day and the first park day, just in case our bags were lost. My backpack had the electronics, paperwork, snacks, carry-on toiletries, and things to do on the plane. Both suitcases and the other carry-on were a mix of clothing, park items, shoes, first aid etc.

It was only because of mixing it up that I was able to fit everything in the bags. And it was only because of the mixing that my bags were under the airline weight limit. 48lbs and 44 lbs.

Just a note here on the strollers. We contemplated many choices but ended up choosing to take 2 single umbrella strollers.

A First Years Ignite (I love this stroller- check it out on amazon if you are in the market)
and a Maclaren Volo.

We have a double also but decided against it this time. It's bulkier and heavier. with the kids being in different ride stages we knew we may want to split up at some times. Plus we knew that we could always leave one at stroller parking.

We kept Maya out of pre school today because she still had a fever. She was only on her second day of fever but we took her to the doctor rather than risk it getting worse while we were gone. The pediatrician checked her out and delivered the news. "it's just a virus. It will have to run its course". I was really hoping for something that required antibiotics. i guess i hoped that medicine would signal a recovery within 24 hours?

Also I had a few errands- bank, drop off keys at moms, etc.

I usually go to the bank on the weekend. So I left at 4 thinking it closed at 5. I had a couple checks to deposit from consignments and wanted to get a little cash out for tips and things. Well, it turned out that branch closed at 4. Luckily there is a branch in a nearby grocery store that stays open longer. I got a bunch of ones and fives for drivers, bell services, maids, etc. I was going to get a couple traveler checks too but at that location apparently they can't sell them in amounts less than $500. I didn't want that much so I decided I'd be fine without.

I also went around taking pictures of our address with every memory card I was taking.

Then in my typical procrastination mindset, I decided I needed to rearrange the pages in my planning book. I never shared my pages in my PTR- and there are no pictures in this update, so i'll share a few now.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1750.jpg
Here is the cover. Its a simple, thin, photo album i found somewhere a while back for a dollar or two.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1741.jpg
Here is the page when you open the book; the picture was found here on the creative boards.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1748.jpg
The first page was a packing list for our park bags, so we could mentally check it off each morning.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1747.jpg
Then there was a list of important numbers


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1749.jpg
And a list of ADR's (old pic, taken before the final update obviously)


Then after that, there was a section for each park. Every park had a sheet for...


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1754.jpg
Character locations and times (used this one a lot actually!)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1755.jpg
Some snacks we may be interested in and where to find them. P.S. this one only works if you know where the snack shop is:lmao:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1753.jpg
show times


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1757.jpg
and where to find the special photopass pictures (didn't use this one enough!)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1756.jpg
If there was a chance we might hit magic hours at the park, the ride list was included


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN1752.jpg
And if we were going to view a parade, the route was included. (P.S.- if you have not seen all the maps Robo had- check them out! awesome job and so very helpful!)




Finally I was done with everything. I went outside to relax for a minute- where it was nice and quiet. A minute later i hear a knock coming from inside the storm door. Oh, how I wish I had my camera- because I turned around to find the most adorable 2 year old. Standing there in one purple butterfly sandal and one pink glitter flat, wearing a Cars folding chair on his head and a diaper. Nothing Else.

"i ready to go"

Dear Sweet James:rotfl:. At least you didn't forget your hat.



We got the kids in bed at a reasonable time. Chris and I were watching our local NBA team play. The game started at 830. We figured we would be fine if we just went to bed afterwards. The game ended up going into TRIPLE overtime. It was almost 1 am by the time we went to bed.

I laid there awake for some time with my mind racing. Eventually I started panicking about how we were going to carry everything. I didn't think about the number of bags vs the number of hands.

4 hands

4 bags plus 2 strollers. :scared1:

Finally it dawned on my that one of our strollers has a strap. So if Chris carried the suitcases and a stroller, I could take the carryons and the backpack. We could hang the diaper bag on James stroller and Maya could push him. I was so glad I didn't have to repack into less bags and pay more checked baggage fees. ESPECIALLY at one in the morning.


I grabbed my phone and wrote this before finally drifting off to sleep.

It's 130am and I'm still awake.
Everything is ready to go but I'm just somewhat wired. I can't believe it's already here! Finally here!
I really hope Maya feels better quickly. I hate that she can't feel the full excitement because she doesnt feel well.
I wish I could stop having things I need to do run through my head so I can fall asleep. We have to be up about 5:45. Our flight leaves at 8:29. I haven't checked us in yet.
Right now the weather is 78 with 75% humidity here and 77 with 67% humidity there.



Next: We overslept last trip- would we do it again??

[DisneyMomma09]

I'm enjoying your report so far. I love how on your list of things to remember to take to the park, you have 'kids' listed!! :lmao: Do you have a history of leaving them behind? Hehe!

Can't wait to hear more!

[sl_underwood]

Im here! Cant wait to read all about your trip!

[lbuzz52]

I'm enjoying your report so far. I love how on your list of things to remember to take to the park, you have 'kids' listed!! :lmao: Do you have a history of leaving them behind? Hehe!

Can't wait to hear more!

WELCOME!!

I have to admit- as soon as I got notification of your post, I had to come see what you were talking about. What I meant by that was to take a picture of the kids every morning so that I would have a picture in the day's clothing if they got separated.
When I was on a family trip as a child, my mom and I got separated from my dad and siblings after a parade. It was stressful, and one of the reasons I like to watch the parade in the popular areas. I couldn't imagine how it would feel to be lost alone as a child. I saw the picture tip on here once, and thought it could help if we ever had to have cm's help us find kids.

So to answer your question, although on whiny days I've been tempted to leave them behind a time or too LOL I have never left them behind :)

[lbuzz52]

Im here! Cant wait to read all about your trip!

you are back! How was your trip? I'm anxious to see if your CBR opinion is the same as ours. Please let me know when you start your TR!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Love how much info you included in your planning binder. :thumbsup2

Don't worry, I don't judge, I am a last minute packer as well. ;)

[pinkxray]

I'm joining in too. I am very impressed that you did not mumble any name calling under your breath or raise you voice. I don't think I can make that claim:laughing:

[cam&phoebsmom]

Impressive lists! But I hve to ask-what is the shower curtain for?:confused3

I really like your handy book to keep track of things-I had not thought of having a parade route pic or character photo times but they are great ideas!!

[lbuzz52]

Love how much info you included in your planning binder. :thumbsup2

Don't worry, I don't judge, I am a last minute packer as well. ;)


glad to hear you pack late too... i read so much about people packing weeks in advance. last trip, i packed through the middle of the night. i was determined not to do that this trip. I thought i had it all under control, but grossily underestimated how long it would take me to get it done.

it also helped considerably that my husband ended up being off the day before the trip. He was not supposed to be. However, his work is on a river, and they had to close for 2 weeks last month due to flooding. They closed right before we left and opened the day we came home. So i had an extra pair of hands to keep the kids in order and search for all the missing shoe pairs. My kids have a knack of reading my mind to see what i wanted to pack, and then hiding it.:lmao:

i love my little mini binder! it probably had more than i needed- but you never know what you will need! hopefully one day i will be seasoned enough to not need it at all!


I'm joining in too. I am very impressed that you did not mumble any name calling under your breath or raise you voice. I don't think I can make that claim:laughing:

:thanks:

It was strange, no doubt about it. I think it was a lot of factors. my kids were for the most part better behaved than at home. I was a bit more patient than normal. And we just lucked out because for the most part when the grumpiness started it was easy to determine why and make a quick fix. Also, i am the "grudge holder" in the family. i was determined to not stay mad if something did tick me off. there were a ton of bad attitudes last trip, and i was determined to minimize it as much as possible.


Impressive lists! But I hve to ask-what is the shower curtain for?:confused3

I really like your handy book to keep track of things-I had not thought of having a parade route pic or character photo times but they are great ideas!!

:welcome: and thanks for the compliments!

i love my little book. it is lightweight and fit perfectly into my bag without adding a lot of bulk. I had to include the parade route because i always confuse myself on which parades start on Main Street and which start in Frontierland. Also, i had never seen them in AK or DHS, so it helped me find the off the main path areas to watch in. As for the character times, they were most helpful in Epcot, so we knew which characters to keep an eye out for and in which country. It also was nice a couple of times when we could plan the schedule to be there right before the character was set to arrive (and the line started growing).

we use the shower curtain and the binder clips for the strollers. we clip it to the stroller during rain. it worked really well for us the last trip...

[PirateKate]

There actually is a trick to changing the color of a link on here. It all has to do with the order that you do it in. The color has to be directly next to the text, with the URL brackets outside of color. If you do it the other way, you get blue.

As far as James' or James's, either way is considered correct. I've heard that James's is more common in the UK and James' is more popular in America, but that may or may not be true.

I'm glad to hear you were able to last the trip without yelling or getting mad at each other. Trips are so much more fun when everyone is happy. I hope Maya makes a speedy recovery. I would have been hoping for an antibiotic, too.

[nessz79]

Joining in!

[lbuzz52]

Tuesday, May 10th


It's finally here!!!

The alarm was set for 5:45am. But I had been up until 2am, and Chris about 1am. The snooze button is our friend, and we laid in bed until 6.

We got dressed quickly as we had laid everything out the night before. Chris loaded up the car while I got the kids around. Then Chris set out a second set of cat supplies (litter box, food, and water)- while i set the air conditioner, turned on the radio, and set the lights. After quickly checking the list to make sure we packed all the things we had to use that morning, we were out the door at 6:40.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday6.jpg
Maya in the car on the way to the airport- moving phone pic


We made it to my work by 7 am. I work across the street from the main airport. And also across a taxiway from Fed-Ex. This is what i see from the window in my office!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/fedexmem.jpg
(borrowed from google)

We parked there because it is gated, it is free, and I can grab a free shuttle from our neighbors. We called for the airport ride, and after a 2 minute drive we were at the Delta terminal.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/MEM.jpg
(picture borrowed from google- our airport isn't the most beautiful place)



The bag carrying idea I'd come up with worked well. Chris took the backpack and the 2 big suitcases, I had the stroller and the 2 carryons. I'm thinking James must have been a but nervous because he let Maya push him. Usually, he makes a scene if Maya even gets close to pushing his shopping cart or stroller.

We went to the kiosk and checked in, then we moved to the counter to check our bags. We were about to jump in the end of a long line at security when a TSA agent came over to us.

I was thinking, great, we aren't even to the scanner and somehow we have already done something wrong. But instead she told us "come on up here- there is a new line opening". Maya said it must be early pixie dust :wizard:

Chris was in charge of putting bags and strollers thru the scanner. I was in charge of getting the electronics and liquids out, and Maya was in charge of alerting us if James tried to do anything but stand there.

It took a minute to get through, but luckily everything we had to pull out was all in one bag. We were allowed to carry James through the metal detectors rather than make him walk in his own. I was quite appreciative of that, because I'm not sure James would have let Chris put him back down at that point. We walked through and no one set it off! I quickly started collecting our things, only to be told by TSA us to take our time so we didn't forget anything. In the past, we have been surrounded by - well, let's just say people who didn't seem to enjoy their jobs. A smile :goodvibes and a friendly word were a welcome change for us!


We found our gate and got settled in some of the few remaining chairs. The luggage was much easier to manage now that we had gotten rid of the two large suitcases.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday2.jpg


I took James for a diaper change, then walked down to a shop. I wanted the kids to have something to drink for take-off during the ear popping time. I picked out a "morning orange" and a lemonade Vitamin water. Each was 32oz and cost $2.99! The kids were begging for them as soon as I returned. Maya drank just a few sips of hers and saved the rest for the plane.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday5.jpg


James drank the entire thing while we were waiting for the call for boarding. I wanted to snap a picture of him waiting for the plane- but he clearly showed me what was the only important thing at the moment. (in these blurry phone pics)

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday4.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday3.jpg
i didn't "fix" his hair this morning. You can really tell how much he needs a haricut

We had about thirty minutes, but passed the time by playing a little game Maya made up. She would guess who was going to Disney, and then I would make up a trip for that person.

"I think the lady in the purple is going to Disney mom"

"I think you are right, see the small Mickey on her luggage. I think she is going to meet her children and grandchildren there. I bet they are staying at the Polynesian for 6 nights. Tonight they are going to watch wishes after having spaghetti at Tony's."



When they called our flight, they began with stroller boarding. Normally, I would ignore this and board as late as possible. But from the look of the gate area, this was going to be a busy flight. We went ahead and jumped in line. After dropping the strollers for gate check, we were seated quickly. Everything was moving steadily and the flight should depart on time.

Every seat was full, but our comedian flight attendant wasn't going to let that slow us down. "Step out of the aisle people. You can change to your assigned seats later. You are doing great. Let's finish boarding and get up on time."

We waited a few minutes at the gate for our turn to taxi. James already wanted out of his seat. He was wiggling around and shouting.

"ok,det's go!"

Soon, we taxied to wait in line for takeoff. it was about that time that i looked at James and realized why he was wiggling. His diaper was leaking. He only had about an hour in that diaper at that point- but he just drank 32 ozs. Nothing I could do at this point. I'd have to wait for the seatbelt sign.

I gave Maya a piece of the key lime pie gum she picked out for the trip and pulled out a pack of Phineas and Ferb gummies for James. He was a bit nervous during the lift, but thankfully curious enough to not let it overcome him.

Finally, we reached 10,000 ft and the seatbelt sign was turned off. I grabbed the diaper bag and we went to the lav to change.


Lesson 1 for toddler airport travel- when you pack extra clothes, pack them in a place where you can access them!

I had three extra outfits and all were packed at the bottom of a large carryon in the overhead bin. Luckily, somehow, he only had a small wet spot on the front of his pants. I figured he would have soaked everything with as long as we were waiting for that seatbelt sign to go off. I decided rather than unpack a suitcase in the middle of an aisle, he could deal with it for the next hour until we landed.

It's very interesting trying to change the diaper of such a large child in such a compact space. Luckily i've become a pro at changing diapers while my child is standing up. But you know those movies where the person in the airplane bathroom leans the wrong way, bumps his head, and then falls out into the cabin with his pants around his knees- well I was certain that would happen to us any minute. Thankfully, it did not, and we made it back to our seats without any events.

Our flight attendants were sweet with the kids. One came by and gave each child a individual twix bar. I opened them up and managed to drop one on the floor :laughing: Another came and gave each of them a wings pin. We muched on our pretzels; before we knew it, we had arrived!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/MCO.jpg
(picture borrowed from google)


We landed on time and collected our carryons. The strollers were already in the jet way, and we continued out to the gate area. I looked around at all those waiting for their flights. What a depressing place! I couldn't help but feel sad for those whose trip was coming for an end. They were on their way back to reality, and I was already dreading the day I would be sitting in their seats.

But for now, I had the whole vacation to look forward to. I looked away so they wouldn't be blinded by my smile.



Next: more transportation!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Glad everything went smoothly at the airport and on the plane (aside from the small diaper leak!).

[lbuzz52]

Joining in!

WELCOME!

Thanks for reading along and commenting!

There actually is a trick to changing the color of a link on here. It all has to do with the order that you do it in. The color has to be directly next to the text, with the URL brackets outside of color. If you do it the other way, you get blue.

As far as James' or James's, either way is considered correct. I've heard that James's is more common in the UK and James' is more popular in America, but that may or may not be true.

I'm glad to hear you were able to last the trip without yelling or getting mad at each other. Trips are so much more fun when everyone is happy. I hope Maya makes a speedy recovery. I would have been hoping for an antibiotic, too.

I think that I understand what you mean with the colors. I practiced on my table of contents but I haven't on my signature yet I'm not ready to admit I don't have a ticker.

Thanks for that knowledge on possesive names. I was certain people were looking at that and thinking I'm an idiot. Like my typos and intersting autocorrected phrases aren't enough to laugh at:laughing:

we were happy to be happy too! I think the smaller party helped some. It's always harder to please a large group of people.

Maya was able to enjoy most of the trip thankfully. Thanks for asking about her.

Glad everything went smoothly at the airport and on the plane (aside from the small diaper leak!).

yes, we were too! Things were going so much smoother than the last trip already. Compared to any of the other things that could have gone wrong, the diaper leak was a walk in the park!

[Lidian]

Awesome start! I was LoL'ing while reading. :goodvibes

Maya was in charge of alerting us if James tried to do anything but stand there

But you know those movies where the person in the airplane bathroom leans the wrong way, bumps his head, and then falls out into the cabin with his pants around his knees- well I was certain that would happen to us any minute.

:lmao::rotfl2:

Totally can't wait to hear more! popcorn::

(But really, glad that everything has gone smoothly so far!)

[pinkxray]

Glad to hear everything went pretty smootly on the way there. I was wondering how letting James drink a whole bottom of water would work out for you, glad it wasn't too bad. If I ever have to travel with a toddler I would probably ban any liquid pre boarding or make DH in charge of diaper changing.

[caitty13]

My DH took a last minute flight down and he had DD1 with him, he said he felt this warm feeling in his lap. She leaked all though her diaper then spilled his drink. lol! :rotfl: I thnk we had a bad package of diapers since that wasn't her only leakage during the trip. :eek:

[PixieMama]

Joining in! Though I missed your PTR.

[lovethattink]

Joining in! Heading back to read!

[heaven2dc]

And the fun begins!! Your kids are so adorable! I can attest to how tiny the bathrooms are on the plane esp to change a baby - I took my DS17 on his first plane ride when he was almost 2 and still in diapers. He pushed the emergency button unbeknownst to me and just as I was finishing changing him, there was a knock on the door (we used the bathroom in First Class), there was a stewardess and co-pilot outside the door grinning, asking if everything was okay :lmao: I was SO embarrassed!

I can't wait to read more about your trip - you are so organized :thumbsup2 I only have been successful once in following my detailed, printed plans and that was when I went with my ex-DBFF. She was so happy we had some organization on her first trip to WDW.

[lbuzz52]

Awesome start! I was LoL'ing while reading. :goodvibes



:lmao::rotfl2:

Totally can't wait to hear more! popcorn::

(But really, glad that everything has gone smoothly so far!)


Awwee, you are sweet! I think a writer would be a fun occupation. It would be nice to entertain without papperazi or the risk of rehab :lmao:


Glad to hear everything went pretty smootly on the way there. I was wondering how letting James drink a whole bottom of water would work out for you, glad it wasn't too bad. If I ever have to travel with a toddler I would probably ban any liquid pre boarding or make DH in charge of diaper changing.

that's what i should have done; passed him off to DH :rotfl2: That child can down some liquids.

My DH took a last minute flight down and he had DD1 with him, he said he felt this warm feeling in his lap. She leaked all though her diaper then spilled his drink. lol! :rotfl: I thnk we had a bad package of diapers since that wasn't her only leakage during the trip. :eek:

Oh no! I bet he wasn't laughing at the time! i always find the bad diaper when he has fresh sheets! (we may have a spilt drink story this trip too:rolleyes1)

Joining in! Though I missed your PTR.

:welcome:

My PTR is fairly easy to catch up on if you like the extra background info. I didn't do a table of contents, but the schedule and main info are within the first page or two. The rest just talks about shopping:rotfl:

Joining in! Heading back to read!

:welcome:

thanks for reading!

[lbuzz52]

And the fun begins!! Your kids are so adorable! I can attest to how tiny the bathrooms are on the plane esp to change a baby - I took my DS17 on his first plane ride when he was almost 2 and still in diapers. He pushed the emergency button unbeknownst to me and just as I was finishing changing him, there was a knock on the door (we used the bathroom in First Class), there was a stewardess and co-pilot outside the door grinning, asking if everything was okay :lmao: I was SO embarrassed!

I can't wait to read more about your trip - you are so organized :thumbsup2 I only have been successful once in following my detailed, printed plans and that was when I went with my ex-DBFF. She was so happy we had some organization on her first trip to WDW.


Thanks for the compliments! i think my kids are pretty swell too!

I do my best to avoid all public bathrooms, especially those the size of a thimble!

Your story is so funny! i'm sure it wasn't at the time though! I'm sure not too many people knew what was going on

I'm glad i've got you fooled :laughing::laughing: I may have managed to pull some organization around for my trip- but in reality, i am a horrible procrasinator and you could get lost in my house! i have to have some paperwork when i go on vacation. i don't have to follow it, but i have to have it. i guess it gives me a little bit of a feeling of control in an unfamiliar place.

Thanks for reading along!

[DisneyMomma09]

WELCOME!!

I have to admit- as soon as I got notification of your post, I had to come see what you were talking about. What I meant by that was to take a picture of the kids every morning so that I would have a picture in the day's clothing if they got separated.
When I was on a family trip as a child, my mom and I got separated from my dad and siblings after a parade. It was stressful, and one of the reasons I like to watch the parade in the popular areas. I couldn't imagine how it would feel to be lost alone as a child. I saw the picture tip on here once, and thought it could help if we ever had to have cm's help us find kids.

So to answer your question, although on whiny days I've been tempted to leave them behind a time or too LOL I have never left them behind :)

I get it! Maybe I should put this on my list, since I mean to do this every morning, but usually only actually DO it about half the time!

Sounds like the flight went relatively smoothly...despite the wet pants. Can't wait to hear more!

[jm106]

I am enjoying your TR. Adorable children and the story about James being "ready" is the best. Im excited to read more. We too stayed at CBR

[AKL LOVER]

Great update. :thumbsup2

I totally limited what the kids had to drink before we got on the plane and made them take a potty break just before boarding and the both STILL had to get up during the hour and forty five minute flight to potty. Granted, I didn't have to change a diaper in the bathroom, but it's really hard trying to fit a 4 year old and yourself in the bathroom at the same time and still have room to go. :rolleyes:

[Busymom85]

Signing in. Waiting for more. Thanks for posting.

[Chaitali]

Great trip report so far, it sounds like you guys had a great time. Your kids are so adorable! I love the game you were playing with your daughter at the airport. I have a tendency to do the same thing in my head :) Can't wait to hear more about the trip. It's interesting to hear about the same day and the same place from other people's perspectives.

[PirateKate]

Aren't diaper changes on an airplane the worst? Glad the leak wasn't too bad.

I hate being at the airport waiting to go home. Flying into MCO is always so exciting and flying back is always so sad. I think it's slightly less sad when we're driving, since at least there's no happy people whose vacation is just starting right in front of us.

[lbuzz52]

I am enjoying your TR. Adorable children and the story about James being "ready" is the best. Im excited to read more. We too stayed at CBR

WELCOME! Thanks for reading!

James cracks me up everyday. Today he came out of his room with a glitter headband and a toolbox!

I'm curious to see if CNR was everything you thought it would be. It seems to have really mixed reviews.

Great update. :thumbsup2

I totally limited what the kids had to drink before we got on the plane and made them take a potty break just before boarding and the both STILL had to get up during the hour and forty five minute flight to potty. Granted, I didn't have to change a diaper in the bathroom, but it's really hard trying to fit a 4 year old and yourself in the bathroom at the same time and still have room to go. :rolleyes:

Yuck, that bathroom break doesn't sound any better! My dd does that. It doesn't matter when she lasts drinks or how many times she goes to the bathroom- she always has to go in public. It's the worst when we go out to eat. I can't avoid the drink and she usually goes about 3 times a meal!

[lbuzz52]

Aren't diaper changes on an airplane the worst? Glad the leak wasn't too bad.

I hate being at the airport waiting to go home. Flying into MCO is always so exciting and flying back is always so sad. I think it's slightly less sad when we're driving, since at least there's no happy people whose vacation is just starting right in front of us.

I'd be very happy if that was my last airplane diaper change ever! I tried really hard to ignore all the arriving vacationers when we were leaving.

Great trip report so far, it sounds like you guys had a great time. Your kids are so adorable! I love the game you were playing with your daughter at the airport. I have a tendency to do the same thing in my head :) Can't wait to hear more about the trip. It's interesting to hear about the same day and the same place from other people's perspectives.

it was a great trip! I'm ready to go back already!
Thanks for the compliments on the kiddos. They are my world!
It is interesting to hear a different perspective. Thanks for reading along!

Signing in. Waiting for more. Thanks for posting.

WELCOME! Thanks for reading. I should have a few more updates soon. I've been playing with the photopass this weekend.

[LeeLee'sMom]

:welcome:

[QUOTE]you are lucky to have such a late start date! ours starts Aug 6th. I'll detail our opinions on the resort during the report- but i will say that we would go back. there was a lot to do when we were at the resort.

so what is the going tooth fairy rate these days anyway? Maya seems to think this is a big accomplishment what aobut your dd?

Yes we are lucky, the Kindergarten start date is September 15th..:thumbsup2
The going rate is ridiculous...:rotfl2: Let's just put it this way, she ended up with $25.00 :eek: That will not happen for anymore teeth :rotfl2: That was more than I received for an entire mouth full of teeth. :laughing: Everything now is I am a big girl, I can do it, I even lost a tooth...:laughing: Loving your TR...so nice to know I have other neurotics out there...:cool1:

[lbuzz52]

When we last left off, we had just arrived at MCO.



We made our way down to the faux monorail and to the elevator. First stop- the bathroom. By this point the spot on James pants had dried. Rather than unpack a carryon, we decided to wait to change his clothes until we get to the hotel.

We continued on our journey to the Magical Express area. I was beyond excited to see the sign. We are here!! Last trip, we were quite lucky with the line. It was probably short because of the time of day and the resort we had. Today, our Caribbean Beach line was shared with Pop Century. It was one of the longest. We entered the ME line at 11:50, and as lengthy as it was, we made it on to the second bus.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5095.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5102.jpg


Our bus was pretty full by the time we boarded it. No prime tv spots or picture taking spots were available. Maya spent the pre-video time looking for familiar sights. James spent it trying to figure out what in the world was going on and why he was not in a car seat!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5100.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5101.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5096.jpg
the best of our attempts at a self portrait





A few minutes later, I hear Maya squeal.

"Momma, there it is, there it is"

I had my camera out ready to take a picture, but no luck. By this point, James had fallen asleep on my right arm.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5105.jpg


The best I could do was this crooked left handed shot.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5106.jpg


I tried a couple of other landmarks and my results were slightly better.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5107.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5108.jpg
I'll see you shortly you sweet thang!





Shortly after 1:00 pm our bus pulled into CBR. We waived goodbye to our driver and waited for our baggage.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5110.jpg


The kids stood politely on the sidewalk, taking in the sights. Chris was told to set our bags down on one of the provided luggage carts and we entered the custom house.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5111.jpg


I had opted out of online check-in. I was afraid it would be more difficult if I needed to ask for a room change. My decision left me 4th in line for regular check-in, with only one open lane. The online check-in had about 8 people in line but 6 available lanes.

The guests in the online section were all taken care of quickly, and I was called to check-In over there. I was so happy to hear that our room was ready! Maya's fever was starting to come back and she needed to re-medicate. Plus, We were ready to get settled and get some lunch after eating peanuts and pretzils for breakfast.

I asked about the crib and was told there is a pack n play in the room. I informed her that I had requested and need a regular crib, and she told me that they would bring one to my room shortly.

I had asked for these room requests, in order of importance: ground floor, near the designated smoking area courtyards, building 44 or 45. While Jamaica would be a great location, listing ground floor as our top priority left plenty of opportunity to meet at least that. Our lovely CM pulled out a map and started to show me where the room was located. I was in complete disbelief when I discovered that all of my requests were met :cool1: We were in Jamaica, building 44, ground floor, room 4419.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0744.jpg


I put a credit card on file for charging privileges, and collected the diapers I had shipped from Amazon. We were told to get our luggage and have bell services show us to our room. We went back out to the luggage carts, where we were promptly were yelled at. Apparently we were not supposed to get our luggage. Chris tried to pull the cart out from in between two others so he could get our bags off. She told us "you can't move that, it is dangerous. Put your name on the list and in about 30 minutes bell services will take you to your room."

I didn't even bother to smile while I snapped back at her.

"He's just doing what YOUR fellow employee told us to do."

Luckily another CM had noticed that she was being curt with us. He checked our room assignment and the amount of bags we had. He turned to Ms. Rude and asked her why we couldn't just take the internal shuttle. She said they could. He said, "well why don’t you tell them that, you know, actually help them!" :worship: I had a feeling we were not the first guest she had been short with that day.





Mr. Nice helped us carry our bags around the corner to the internal bus waiting area. About 2 minutes later a bus came, and after a couple stops we were dropped off in Jamaica!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0741.jpg
The view from the bus stop


The signage is a bit confusing from the bus stop. When you are approaching the buildings closest to the bus stop, the sign says building 44 is to the right.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0743.jpg


This picture was from later in the week, but if you see where Chris is, building 45 is on his left and 44 is on his right.

Luckily on arrival day, another guest saw my confused face, and pointed out the shortcut that Chris is taking in that picture.

We walk past the small courtyard and our room is right in front of us. The location is perfect. There are 4 rooms that would be closer to the courtyard but we have a path from our door that takes us directly there.

I'm going to try to explain our location, hopefully in a way that is not too confusing.

If you come out of our door, you cross a sidewalk and are on Path A. We will call the sidewalk Path B. Path A and Path B intersect right in front of our door.


If you exit our door and take Path A straight you head back in between the buildings to get to the bus stop.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0745.jpg
View straight out our door- the path to the bus stop shortcut


If you pass the first bush and then take a left on Path A, you are at the courtyard.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0752.jpg


If you pass the first bush and take a right on Path A, you are headed towards the bridge to Old Port Royale/ Caribbean Cay.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0746.jpg
picture taken from the corner room next to ours


If you exit our room and take Path B to the left, you have an alternate entry to the Courtyard and access to the ice and vending.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0749.jpg


If you take Path B to the right, you immediately turn right, pass one room to get to the rear of the building, and then the pool/ beach/ laundry for our village is right there!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0748.jpg
picture taken from the corner room next to ours. see the beach chairs?


And if that was confusing, here's a short version. We were almost as close as you could get to the amenities in our village. And we were in the building next to the closest to the bus stop and next to the closest to the Caribbean Cay/ OPR access. Our location was very central, and all walks were short to almost non existant.


Just because i'm using all the other pictures now, here is a picture of a yellow Jamaica building

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0753.jpg

And a closeup of a decoration i liked.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0754.jpg


CONTINUED NEXT POST

[lovethattink]

What a great convenient location! I'm glad you got all your requests.

I remember years ago picking up relatives at the guest house and driving them to Jamaica where we proceeded for a very long time to wind around looking for room numbers. We kept going and going. I see the signage hasn't changed, lol. It's very confusing.

It's a shame your daughter was sick. I hope she got better quickly!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Sounds like you got a great location!

[sl_underwood]

Jealous of your location! We had a bit of a walk to Old Port Royale! Cant wait to hear your thoughts on the resort!

[lbuzz52]

Cont. from earlier... we were arriving at our Room, Jamaica, Caribbean Beach


Our room was as expected. We had previously stayed in a deluxe so we knew we were downgrading. Although not the newest accommodations, the room was clean enough and spacious enough for us and all our belongings. A few pictures were in order before we officially destroyed the room.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5118.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5117.jpg
bathroom sink


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5116.jpg
closet (more or less)



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/IMG_5115.jpg
Arrival artwork


I was soon interrupted by a bed jumping duo...

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/iphonearrivalday1.jpg
iphone moving pic


I never did get back to those pictures...


But don't fret- I won't leave you hanging:rotfl:

I borrowed these pictures from here on WDW Info and from disney carribean beach .com (THANKS!)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/CarBeach1003_medium.jpg
view from door


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/CarBeach1012_medium.jpg
view towards door


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/CaribbeanBeach-NemoRoom-3.jpg
privacy curtain in front of bathroom


See the table next to the tv & dresser- it was perfect for unloading a suitcase on. We stashed the empties next to it.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/CaribbeanBeach-NemoRoom-4.jpg
a different viewpoint of the view towards door.


Our room was set up the same way as this one. See the little wall area near the connecting door? It actually was a little larger than it looks here. We stashed James' bed here and it didn't interfere with getting in the door or with getting into bed.



Ok, enough of the housekeeping...:)

James finally gets a clothing change, and Maya gets some Tylenol. Then we headed off to Old Port Royale for lunch. The walk across Caribbean Cay seemed a bit long this first time- but only because of its unfamiliarity. Just a few steps into our walk we notice some turtles on the water bank. Another pair of guests saw an opportunity.

"Bob, look over there, is that the alligator?"

"Why yes, yes I think it is."

Maya decided right then and there it was her mission to warn all others about the risk of swimming. :laughing:


We took our time crossing, checking out all the little side paths on the bridge. There was a playground, and a few secluded hammick spots nestled behind the trees. The feature pool looked amazing, and we couldn't wait to check it out in a while. But first we must eat.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0805.jpg


I did take a few pictures inside on a later date. I'm going to save them for another installment. This time, i neglected to bring my camera.

The Old Port Royale building is bright and colorful inside. After scanning our choices we decide on the large pepperoni pizza combo. It is only 2 counter service credits and comes with 2 drinks and 2 desserts from a grab and go area. (i don't have the reciept with me, but the pizza would have been $15, and the drinks/ desserts about $2.50 each) I chose a large m&m cookie- the size of a dessert plate- and a chocolate muffin. Chris and I got our mugs- black and of course pink! (about $29.00) And we got the kids Sprite with the cups that came with the meal. Pizza, sprite, and cookie- the kids were in heaven!

The pizza was a good size and pretty tasty too! We all ate and had two pieces left. On a starving day we could have probably finished it all but it was plenty for us at Disney. We all shared the cookie and took the muffin back to the room for breakfast the next morning.


On our way back, I started thinking of our carryon I had packed like a weekend bag. We each had swimsuits, clothes for dinner, clothes for the park the next day, pajamas- everything we needed for the first 24 hours in Florida.

Except suntan lotion.

I had packed it in the checked luggage. Whoops. Silly airline liquid rules. Kind of important when we all were still sporting the I've been stuck inside while its rained almost daily for the last six weeks look.

We were almost to our room when we heard a little rustling in the bushes. A small lizard! It blended so well we had trouble finding it. We saw tons of these over our stay, but I was never able to get a picture.


Not 5 minutes after we returned to our room, bell services arrived with our luggage! (about 3-4 hours after we landed) Piles of sunscreen were applied, then we were off to play in a pirate ship.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0844.jpg
taken later in the week


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/carbeachpoolPool20Play20area.jpg
borrowed from same site to get you a better perspective.


Some time had passed since our kids had been in a pool, so we wanted to let them get acclimated. The kiddie feature pool is a great place to do so. It's a large circular zero entry area, surrounded by chairs and a fence. The play structure is themed like a pirate ship, with a couple of small slides. And if you heard a bell, then watch out! The bell signaled that the buckets were about to spill over and pour water on whatever pirates were unlucky (or lucky) enough to be standing below.

Maya practiced a little on the kiddie slides, then decided she was ready for the big guns. James and Chris were happy where they were, so we left our things there and went in search of a life jacket. I'd like to suggest that you wear your shoes when you do this. The ground had these little decorative grooves in it and we had to go to a bin on the far side of the pool to find one. Not comfy on your bare feet!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0803.jpg
picture taken later in the week


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/DSCN0843.jpg
feature pool, pic taken later in the week


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/carbeachpoolP32.jpg
borrowed to get you a better perspective; view of slide from zero entry area


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/carbeachpool3.jpg
borrowed from same site; view of other slide from same zero entry area


Swimming knowledge is a very good investment. Two years ago, when Maya had her first set of lessons, she did very well. Then we spent months away from a pool. Last year, she had developed a fear of the getting her head under water. She refused to even get in the pool at one point. Let's just say she and her instructor really butted heads and it quickly became a battle of will.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/carbeachpoolP15.jpg
the area Maya and I started in.


Once again, it had been a while since Maya had been swimming. I was certain that she would back out of the slides. It certainly surprised me that she changed her mind about getting in the pool. She put one foot on the first step and stopped. I started to coax her in.

"Maya, come on, you don't have to get your head wet, I promise you can stand up here."

"Mamn, let her be, she'll come in on her own time. The prodding tends to make it worse."

Maya was happy to have someone on her side, and told me so with her take that look. She quickly buddied up with that lifeguard and began sharing her life story.

"Hi, I'm Maya, I'm 5 & 3/4. I'll be in kindergarten soon. I have 5 cousins and the names are..."

It was now my time to use the take that look. That'll teach you to butt in with my child (even if you were right)

Maya is one very stubborn person, but she is also very prideful. It didn't take long for her to talk herself into getting into the pool and even trying both slides. I picked up a phrase that has since been used daily. "I'm not going to force you to do anything, you can do it if you want" It's amazing how much a strong willed child will do if it was "her own idea"

Chris and James join soon join us, and we splash around for a while. Maya seems to remember some of her swimming skills, but definitely needs more lessons. We definitely need to hold the life jackets for the week.

Soon its time to go back to the room and get cleaned up. I was expecting to have to carry kicking screaming children. But they each complied, and they did so quietly!


There wasn't much wiggle room in our schedule at this point. We really should have left earlier, but the water felt so good! Quickly we dried off and changed, and before long we were on our way to the bus stop for our dinner ADR.


Or were we?.....

[lbuzz52]

[QUOTE=lbuzz52;41325082]:welcome:



Yes we are lucky, the Kindergarten start date is September 15th..:thumbsup2
The going rate is ridiculous...:rotfl2: Let's just put it this way, she ended up with $25.00 :eek: That will not happen for anymore teeth :rotfl2: That was more than I received for an entire mouth full of teeth. :laughing: Everything now is I am a big girl, I can do it, I even lost a tooth...:laughing: Loving your TR...so nice to know I have other neurotics out there...:cool1:

Oh my, that is an expensive tooth! i think i'll keep that one to myself. I was thinking more along the lines of $5, mayye $10 for the first tooth. And probably $2-$3 afterwards.

you are right though, it really does signal some sort of big girl phemomenon. :lmao:


What a great convenient location! I'm glad you got all your requests.

I remember years ago picking up relatives at the guest house and driving them to Jamaica where we proceeded for a very long time to wind around looking for room numbers. We kept going and going. I see the signage hasn't changed, lol. It's very confusing.

It's a shame your daughter was sick. I hope she got better quickly!

its almost as if they put the sign in front of the wrong building. it would make perfect sense if it was in front of building 45.

Other than our immediate area, i never did really get the lay of the land; then again, i only left our area on a park bus.

Thanks, she'll be better soon, i promise.


Sounds like you got a great location!

I really liked our location; for some parks, we were the first bus stop; and others in the middle. Definitely helped with obtaining seats!

[lbuzz52]

Jealous of your location! We had a bit of a walk to Old Port Royale! Cant wait to hear your thoughts on the resort!

i spent a lot of time thinking about where we wanted to stay. I am so greatful that we were in our requested area AND that we didn't have to climb steps with a stroller. i really think that the location made a difference in our overall opinions. i dont want to get too far into it now though, dont want to make it seems redundant through the trip report. if you get too curious you can always PM me though:goodvibes

[sl_underwood]

I hope you didnt have bus trouble...

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

The pool looks really nice!

I would have been annoyed at the lifeguard, it is not like you were trying to drag her kicking and screaming into the pool. :headache:

[lovethattink]

The pool looks so inviting!

Was it really as deep at the water slide as it looked? I didn't think it was that deep at CSR when I caught ds down the slide.

You mentioned holding life jackets for the week. Did you have to arrange to reserve them? I remember we had to do this years ago at POR, but recently at both Pop(May) and CSR(March) there as a box of lifejackets at the pool to borrow and return.

[Lidian]

Okay, let me get this straight ...

A couple seriously mistook turtles for alligators? (Or were they joking?)

And a lifeguard seriously intervened with you and your child?? :eek:

No offense to the lifeguard, but you do know your child best, and its not their place to give you parenting advice. (Sorry, I was given "parenting advice" by a family on my arrival day, and I'm still not thrilled with them butting in. :sad2:)

Hands down, I think CBR has the BEST themed pool for little ones. DD (8 at the time) still had a blast playing on the boat. She loved the slide as well. (Well, I vote it as BEST I've seen, but can't vouch for all the pools - yet. :lmao:)

I'm glad you didn't have to wait long before your luggage (with the sunscreen) arrived!

Sounds like you've had a good day so far, can't wait to hear more! popcorn::

[PixieMama]

Oh, does that pool look good right about now (considering it's 92 right now!)

And the pirate ship looks so fun... my girls would LOVE that!

[LeeLee'sMom]

I will have to make note of your location at CBR...:goodvibes sounds like a good area for us :cool1:

[lbuzz52]

Oh, does that pool look good right about now (considering it's 92 right now!)

And the pirate ship looks so fun... my girls would LOVE that!

the pirate ship was fun! and it was nice to be able to walk around it and have your feet wet to cool you down. its hot here today too, i think 99 again. but the humidity has dropped to 45% so its WAY better

Okay, let me get this straight ...

A couple seriously mistook turtles for alligators? (Or were they joking?)

And a lifeguard seriously intervened with you and your child?? :eek:

No offense to the lifeguard, but you do know your child best, and its not their place to give you parenting advice. (Sorry, I was given "parenting advice" by a family on my arrival day, and I'm still not thrilled with them butting in. :sad2:)

Hands down, I think CBR has the BEST themed pool for little ones. DD (8 at the time) still had a blast playing on the boat. She loved the slide as well. (Well, I vote it as BEST I've seen, but can't vouch for all the pools - yet. :lmao:)

I'm glad you didn't have to wait long before your luggage (with the sunscreen) arrived!

Sounds like you've had a good day so far, can't wait to hear more! popcorn::


i really think they were just joking... i mean, if they truly thought they were alligators i hope they weren't driving anytime soon. but we couldn't convince Maya they were joking.

yep, he intervened. he was very matter of fact about it, like yep, i see it all the time... that sort of attitude. Maya was on cloud nine about it though- its not like she gets to hear her momma is wrong very often:rotfl2:

seriously though, i believe that there are two reasons you should intervene in someone elses parenting . 1) the other kids is about to hurt your child again. as in, you told the kids to stop and they didn't listen so they had a fair shot 2) that other kid is about to run in front of a car/ climb into a burning biilding/ jump off a cliff- whatever dangerous thing the parent is not aware of.

i can't speak for enough of the other pools, but i will say it was enough fun that i was willing to trek over there when there was a perfectly good pool around the corner from us!


The pool looks so inviting!

Was it really as deep at the water slide as it looked? I didn't think it was that deep at CSR when I caught ds down the slide.

You mentioned holding life jackets for the week. Did you have to arrange to reserve them? I remember we had to do this years ago at POR, but recently at both Pop(May) and CSR(March) there as a box of lifejackets at the pool to borrow and return.

if i remember correctly, the water was around 4 ft something at the bottom fo the slide areas. one seemed a little deeper. the water was pulling a bit more though at the "deeper" one, so maybe that was it? i'm 5'5", and i could at least tippytoe touch in all parts of the pool.

There were a couple boxes of lifejackets here too. i didn't reserve them. i had read on here somewhere that you could take them to your room. When we first went to the feature pool, there were plenty available, but very few small enough for James. we decided to take them so he would be sure to have one. I didn't ask- but i figured they would stop us if they didn't want us to- or that Mousekeeping would have taken them from the room. Now i'm hoping i wasn't in the wrong.

The pool looks really nice!

I would have been annoyed at the lifeguard, it is not like you were trying to drag her kicking and screaming into the pool. :headache:

i agree, i wasn't forcing her. it really wasn't any of his business as long as i wasn't harming her. i just blew it off though. now when it is someone i know it really eats me up. (i'd tell stories but i'd get all worked up LOL)

the pool was great. and it was never overly busy!

I hope you didnt have bus trouble...

no, we really didn't have any troubles. we were pretty lucky i guess.

[AKL LOVER]

Great pics. The pool does look great :thumbsup2 I can't believe you got them to leave when you did. And quietly. You must share your tricks with me :laughing:

[lbuzz52]

I will have to make note of your location at CBR...:goodvibes sounds like a good area for us :cool1:

i'd recommend it... building 44 near building 45. :goodvibes

[lbuzz52]

Great pics. The pool does look great :thumbsup2 I can't believe you got them to leave when you did. And quietly. You must share your tricks with me :laughing:

i think we were posting at the same time!

it was absolutely pure luck. i wish i had the tricks. i would have used them later in the week....
and when they were younger. i used to avoid the playground because i would have to carry maya sideways kicking and screaming when it was time to leave.

[Lidian]

i really think they were just joking... i mean, if they truly thought they were alligators i hope they weren't driving anytime soon. but we couldn't convince Maya they were joking.

yep, he intervened. he was very matter of fact about it, like yep, i see it all the time... that sort of attitude. Maya was on cloud nine about it though- its not like she gets to hear her momma is wrong very often:rotfl2:

seriously though, i believe that there are two reasons you should intervene in someone elses parenting . 1) the other kids is about to hurt your child again. as in, you told the kids to stop and they didn't listen so they had a fair shot 2) that other kid is about to run in front of a car/ climb into a burning biilding/ jump off a cliff- whatever dangerous thing the parent is not aware of.

i can't speak for enough of the other pools, but i will say it was enough fun that i was willing to trek over there when there was a perfectly good pool around the corner from us!

:mad::mad::mad:
See, that's just wrong. The only time someone should intervene is if someone is going to get hurt (verbal, mental, physical - whatever). That wasn't the case and he shouldn't have been a tool about it. Sounds like he needs to see his supervisor for some customer service training. Lifeguard or not, he's not there to parent anyone. He's just there to make sure no one gets hurt or drowns, make sure pool rules are followed, etc. Parenting is certainly not in his job description.

Now that I think more about it, I really think I would have noted his name and reported him. Not to be mean towards him, but he really needs to know that its not okay to interfere with parenting.

Some kids just need a bit more coaxing from mom/dad before they're ready for something. And I truly believe that sometimes, its not okay to drop the topic and come back later. You know your kids best, and you know when its time to drop the subject and when its okay to keep pressing.

If she was doubled over in hysterics and you were yelling at her trying to force her in, sure, he could intervene then. But not trying to talk her into something.

Okay, someone needs to take this soap box away from me. :lmao::rotfl2: My fingers don't know when to stop. :sad2:

DS asked repeatedly to visit the pirate pool this year, but he loved the slide at CSR, so it was a good trade off. :goodvibes

[DisneyMomma09]

Wow! That pool looks great!

We are staying at a moderate in August after staying only in deluxes for the last several trips. I'm glad to hear you survived the adjustment well! I'm also glad to hear there was pleanty of room for the crib since we will have one as well!

Looking forward to hearing about dinner!

[lbuzz52]

:mad::mad::mad:
See, that's just wrong. The only time someone should intervene is if someone is going to get hurt (verbal, mental, physical - whatever). That wasn't the case and he shouldn't have been a tool about it. Sounds like he needs to see his supervisor for some customer service training. Lifeguard or not, he's not there to parent anyone. He's just there to make sure no one gets hurt or drowns, make sure pool rules are followed, etc. Parenting is certainly not in his job description.

Now that I think more about it, I really think I would have noted his name and reported him. Not to be mean towards him, but he really needs to know that its not okay to interfere with parenting.

Some kids just need a bit more coaxing from mom/dad before they're ready for something. And I truly believe that sometimes, its not okay to drop the topic and come back later. You know your kids best, and you know when its time to drop the subject and when its okay to keep pressing.

If she was doubled over in hysterics and you were yelling at her trying to force her in, sure, he could intervene then. But not trying to talk her into something.

Okay, someone needs to take this soap box away from me. :lmao::rotfl2: My fingers don't know when to stop. :sad2:

DS asked repeatedly to visit the pirate pool this year, but he loved the slide at CSR, so it was a good trade off. :goodvibes

well, that's basically what i was trying to say.. sometimes it takes me a while to get there. intervene if someone is going to get hurt, and i tend to jump in to defend my child a little quicker than i probably should.



Wow! That pool looks great!

We are staying at a moderate in August after staying only in deluxes for the last several trips. I'm glad to hear you survived the adjustment well! I'm also glad to hear there was pleanty of room for the crib since we will have one as well!

Looking forward to hearing about dinner!

i looked at it as sort of a different type of vacation. we were sacrificing extra room- but we had more to do at the resort and a better food court, etc.

[lbuzz52]

i'll be working on a new update on my lunch break soon...

but i wanted to ask if any of you saw the show Turn My Backyard Disney this week?

We watched it as a family and it had all of us commenting. i'm pleased to say DH asked how we get on the show! Maybe that means Disney isn't too bad for him:) We decided we'd go for a Mickey shaped pool- one ear a hottub, one ear a shallow wading area.

What would you do?

[lbuzz52]

Tues, May 10th cont.

When we last left off, we were on our way to our dinner ADR at Ohana




We tried to walk out the door, but were met with our Garden Grocer order. I'm not one to drink curdled milk, so it had to be put away before we left. We had ordered the bare minimum in beverages and breakfast stuff. Milk, monster energy drinks, ice tea, coffeemate creamer, yogurt, fruit, nutrigrain bars, peanut butter crackers. We had brought individual cereal boxes and planters nut mix in our suitcase.

I found a high shelf to put all the dry goods on and them went to load the other items into the mini fridge. It didn't seem very cool to me. I had read somewhere that it worked a little better if you took it out of it's cabinet so I made Chris do that.



Finally, we were on our way to the bus stop for our first park bus ride of the trip! And on the way we saw three more bunnies. I'm no bunny expect, but if I had to guess by the size, I'd say it was a momma and babies.

We caught the bus quickly and were on our way to the Magic Kingdom! We had three internal bus stops and the bus ended up pretty full. I was surprised as it was 5:45.

James fell asleep on the way, so it must have been a pretty exciting trip! I'm surprised Maya and I didn't wake him, because we both screamed with excitement when we came upon the Magic Kingdom sign just a few moments later! Soon we were dropped off at bus stop 16- almost the very furthest stop.

It was hard not going inside the park but we knew we would have our chance in the morning.

The walk from the bus to the monorail was long, as was the wait. i took the opportunity to snap a couple pictures. Actually, 47. Apparently i had the setting on continuous and had 44 pictures like the one directly below.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0212.jpg
view of Poly from the Monorail waiting area


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0245.jpg
Someone had just woken up


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0241.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0243.jpg
MK monorail station


We weren't sure the monorail would ever come. I was this close to picking up Maya just so i woudln't have to hear, "sweetie, please dont lean on the gate" another time. Finally it arrived and we made it to the Polynesian.We didn't go to the Poly on our last trip, but as soon as we stopped at the monorail station I was hit with a feeling of nostalgia. I stayed here a couple times as a child and it was still familiar. I couldn't believe that I remembered the lines for the monorail, the building, the pool and beach area.

By the time we made it to check- in at Ohana we were almost 10 minutes late! I started to panic when they said there was no reservation under my name.

Luckily i had brought my confirmation. I pulled out my paperwork, they checked the computers, and immediately I felt like an idiot. I started my Disney account long before I was married.... all my adr's were under my maiden name. :confused3 Apparently I never changed it. I'm not sure how i managed to do that because the room was under my married name.



I was given a pager and we made our way over to the little shop next to the waiting area. Maya's fever was starting to come back and we had left the ibuprofin in our room. There were two choices of medicine- infant tylenol and adult Tylenol. We stood there for a minute thinking we must be missing something. The CM came over to see if we needed help.

"We are looking for children's medicine"

"There is the kids stuff"

"No, that is only good for children under 22lbs. My daughter weighs 50 lbs."

"Why don't you give her a double dose?"

"Why? Giving children the incorrect doasage is exactly why these medicines were recalled to begin with. I suggest you stop giving suggestions that could harm someone."

Chris thanked her for trying to help, and told me to get out of there. She was only maybe 16, and surely didn't want the lecture on child medication she was about to get.



By the time we made it back to the waiting area, our pager was going off. We were led to a nice large round top fit for 5.

(Sidenote- i made my ADRS on different days, each time putting in the age of the children. Yet for some reason, many showed up as 4 adults. )

I was so excited to be here. I'd been waiting for this meal for almost 2 years. For those of you who have not read my last trip report, I had this meal scheduled for our arrival day. The night before we left, I stayed up packing until 4am. I thought Chris had set the alarm when he went to bed; he thought I would set it when I came to bed. We managed to oversleep and miss our flight. We caught a flight later that day but didn't get off ME until after our ADR time. For the longest time, Maya thought that taking a flight meant you had to wait at the airport for hours :rotfl2:

So we were seated and soon our server team came to take our drink order and explain the meal to us. The meal is a family style/all you can eat/ Brazilian steakhouse style place. And they keep it coming!


First they brought out warm bread.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0250.jpg


James, Chris, and I tried a bite but knew not to fill up on it.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0246.jpg


Maya wanted nothing to do with it. Odd coming from a child whose 4 food groups are bread, chocolate, cheese, and candy.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0247.jpg


Then came a salad, noodles, dumplings, wings, and broccoli. They also brought around three dipping sauces. One was peanut, one was mustard based, and the third escapes me.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0251.jpg
salad with honey lime dressing


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chicken wings


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pork dumplings


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broccoli


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0257.jpg
noodles


We sampled everything while we waited for the meat. By the menu descriptions, the salad was the one thing I was unsure about. It was by far the best thing! I loved it! I had to have seconds! Chris liked the wings, and James loved the dumplings. Again, Maya didn't want to try a thing.

This was not a good sign; she typically belongs to the "Are you going to finish that club?". I sent Chris back to get the infant Tylenol. Maya looked miserable. I just gave her the largest infant dosage on the package. I'm paranoid about overdosing; I figured even if it helped a little it would get her by for dinner.

At this point the entertainer came out to teach the children the hula and give them leis. I turned to ask Maya if she would like to participate and saw she had fallen asleep.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0259.jpg


I was thinking of going back for yet more salad when the meat started coming. There was steak- this was done more than we like but still very tasty. There was no need to ask for a piece that was less done.

Then came pork. This was a bit dry for me. I skipped this.

Next came the chicken. I'm not a big fan of chicken unless it's in a salad or casserole or something like that. This chicken was so juicy! I asked for seconds on this.

Finally the shrimp came around! They were quite yummy as well! I split a second round of these with James. And just a note- don't create more work for yourself like I did- peel, clean hands, use fork for something else, peel, clean hands, etc etc. Just peel them all at once. I think I had about 2 left by the time I realized this lol.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0258.jpg
A meat filled plate- it all came at the same time.


Then, the moment we had been waiting for- DESSERT! That bread pudding was tasty but the real winner here is the topping. They bring you a small carafe of sauce to pour over your bread pudding and ice cream. Oh, that warm caramely banana sauce. I could have eaten a bowl of just the sauce. As it was the three of us finished every bite of this, fighting for each and every banana slice! This dessert is currently ranked as tied for my #2 favorite sit down dessert. (I need a taste-off!)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/ohana-dessert.jpg


We woke Maya and made sure she didn't want anything to eat before we left. She didn't. She immediately felt guilty and apologized for falling asleep. Poor thing, it had been a long day.

The server brought our bill and we settled up to our dining plan. I didn't think about it until now, but he had charged for Maya, who had not eaten a bite. James more than ate her portion though, and as a Disney "infant" he is free.

The bill would have been around $90.00. We used 2 adult and 1 child dining credits.



We walked around the hotel for a bit- not because we wanted to, but because my 20-something year old memories weren't as sharp as they once were:rotfl:

We were headed towards the far monorail station when Chris' stomach got upset.

(From childhood i remember that there was a monorail stop at the edge of the property that could be quicker to walk to depending on room location- am I thinking of the TTC?)

Maya and I sat outside and waited. She was very quiet. But after a few minutes, she begged me to never stay at the Polynesian. It's my splurge hotel- the one monorail must, so I had to know why.

popcorn:: Any guesses? popcorn::

[Lidian]

i'll be working on a new update on my lunch break soon...

but i wanted to ask if any of you saw the show Turn My Backyard Disney this week?

We watched it as a family and it had all of us commenting. i'm pleased to say DH asked how we get on the show! Maybe that means Disney isn't too bad for him:) We decided we'd go for a Mickey shaped pool- one ear a hottub, one ear a shallow wading area.

What would you do?

I've never heard of the show! But your idea sounds great! :cloud9:

(What channel does it air on?)

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Excellent food pics!

Poor Maya! :guilty:

[lovethattink]

Love the food pics! Looks like the menu has changed since we ate there years ago. I don't remember dumplings, broccoli, or noodles. Was the shrimp the sweet and sour kind?

Was it the Tikis that made Maya not want to go back? Or was it feeling sick?

[DisneyMomma09]

Yummy! We love Ohana! We are eating there our first night in August! I can't wait!

Poor Maya! I hope she starts feeling better!

[Moira222]

Maya and I sat outside and waited. She was very quiet. But after a few minutes, she begged me to never stay at the Polynesian. It's my splurge hotel- the one monorail must, so I had to know why.

popcorn:: Any guesses? popcorn::


I am really enjoying your TR - took me a while to catch up.

I am guessing the Tiki Guys/masks scared her?

Reading through I feel bad for Maya...I hope she gets better by the next day....reading between the lines I am guessing she feels really tired and run down from travel + fever. poor baby. And Chris too? over eating maybe? (hopefully?)

I am intrigued by your description & photos of CBR. At first your description of your room location had me thinking I'd be lost every time. Is it a similar construction/layout to Coronado? The pool looks fantastic.

I can't resist commenting on the whole life guard comments.... My thought was give the guy a break. I know that before we left for our trip, I said to my DH .... "we need to keep each other from being too hard/ too high expectations from Katie while we are down there". now I didn't mean letting her act like a brat, but what I did mean was our insisting on her acting the way we THOUGHT she should act as opposed to letting her be herself. things like insisting she wait in a character line or err get in the pool before she was ready :ssst: (they dont' have an icon for shut me up :laughing:).... it seemed to me that the lifeguard was just trying to head off a bull run ;)(don't shoot me!)

Can't wait to see how the rest of your trip goes!

[LeeLee'sMom]

Thinking maybe she is relating not feeling well and dad not feeling well to the Polynesian??? or could be the tiki statues...Yes really liked the My backyard goes Disney show. I absolutely loved the teapot and swing...Leah wanted it all. My wish would be to make a small scale cinderella's castle, some glass slipper slides, etc...:cool1:

[lbuzz52]

thanks to all who were concerned about Maya:goodvibes


Excellent food pics!

Poor Maya! :guilty:


Thanks! i wish i could say i always remembered to take them. Chris was happy when i forgot, he doesn't understand photographing our meals. And i've even emailed him the food porn thread!

Yummy! We love Ohana! We are eating there our first night in August! I can't wait!

Poor Maya! I hope she starts feeling better!

I think Ohana is a great start to the trip! wish we were going with you!

I've never heard of the show! But your idea sounds great! :cloud9:

(What channel does it air on?)

:happytv:

The show is on HGTV. Last Monday was the first episode. A family lived next to grandma, and they tore the fence down and connected it with a train! They added a few other major Disney elements. It was really neat! i'd tell you more, but i dont want to spoil it. I looked it up, and it is repeating on Sunday in my area.

[lbuzz52]

Thinking maybe she is relating not feeling well and dad not feeling well to the Polynesian??? or could be the tiki statues...Yes really liked the My backyard goes Disney show. I absolutely loved the teapot and swing...Leah wanted it all. My wish would be to make a small scale cinderella's castle, some glass slipper slides, etc...:cool1:

I absolutely love your idea! Glass slipper slides would be beautiful! Maya just said she is going to your backyard for the next vacation!

I am really enjoying your TR - took me a while to catch up.

I am guessing the Tiki Guys/masks scared her?

Reading through I feel bad for Maya...I hope she gets better by the next day....reading between the lines I am guessing she feels really tired and run down from travel + fever. poor baby. And Chris too? over eating maybe? (hopefully?)

I am intrigued by your description & photos of CBR. At first your description of your room location had me thinking I'd be lost every time. Is it a similar construction/layout to Coronado? The pool looks fantastic.

I can't resist commenting on the whole life guard comments.... My thought was give the guy a break. I know that before we left for our trip, I said to my DH .... "we need to keep each other from being too hard/ too high expectations from Katie while we are down there". now I didn't mean letting her act like a brat, but what I did mean was our insisting on her acting the way we THOUGHT she should act as opposed to letting her be herself. things like insisting she wait in a character line or err get in the pool before she was ready :ssst: (they dont' have an icon for shut me up :laughing:).... it seemed to me that the lifeguard was just trying to head off a bull run ;)(don't shoot me!)

Can't wait to see how the rest of your trip goes!

its so hard to stay caught up!

Chris was just overeating, i believe. He generally doesn't eat much until about midnight, so he was really off the whole trip.
Maya was getting rid of a virus, so the traveling really wore her down. Luckily she'll be done with it soon (in the TR)

I've never been to Coronado, so i can't really answer your question. But CBR was't confusing to me, i probably just explained it poorly. All the villages were around a lake, and there was a big bridge to get to the other side of the lake. most of the building in each village were surrounding a courtyard. I'll see if i can find a map to help me explain. one of the paths was the sidewalk around our building (see the blue line on the second picture below), and the other took us to the various places (the black line on the second picture below). the pink glitter star is where our room was.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/cbrmap.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/cbrmap.gif


no worries on the lifeguard thing! i understand it from both sides. For me personally, i get bothered when family members tell me how to parent, but it doesn't bother me as much when strangers do it. but you hit the nail on the head with a bull run! my daughter (and my boss) do things much more quickly when it is their "own" idea, so usually i get the best results when i plant the seed and then leave her alone to make up her own mind.

i agree, the vacation goes much smoother if you are realistic. I had to remind myself several times that the kids were hot or tired and it made the day much nicer than if i snapped at them.

Love the food pics! Looks like the menu has changed since we ate there years ago. I don't remember dumplings, broccoli, or noodles. Was the shrimp the sweet and sour kind?

Was it the Tikis that made Maya not want to go back? Or was it feeling sick?

the shrimp were peel and eat, and if they had any seasoning it wasn't strong enough for me to notice. they definitely weren't sweet and sour. what did they have three years ago? i think its good if they change the sides every so often. as long as they dont change the dessert;)

[lbuzz52]

To all of you that guessed... i *think* you are right.

To tell you the truth, i'm not exactly sure what they are called. She called them the men in the bushes!

But yes, if you are referring to the tiki statues that i tried to photograph in the bushes here than you are correct!



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0260.jpg


I had hoped to finish up the first day today, but its going to be tomorrow, i promise. i'm ready to get to the parks! :banana:

[lovethattink]

the shrimp were peel and eat, and if they had any seasoning it wasn't strong enough for me to notice. they definitely weren't sweet and sour. what did they have three years ago? i think its good if they change the sides every so often. as long as they dont change the dessert;)

The first few times we ate there, the shrimp were plain peel and eat shrimp. The next 2 times we ate there, the shrimp were peel and eat, but in a gooy sweet and sour sauce. My son ate a ton of them! We were so messy after eating them!

I think we had mixed grilled veggies for a side. There was some kind of tossed greens in a vinegette dressing.

The fist couple times, the dessert was a pineapple that was sliced with caramel sauce for it. It was yum! But I really like the bread pudding one too, though.

[pinkxray]

Aw, poor Maya. I hope she was just tired and felt better the next day.

Great pictures from your meal. I love the food there. We agreed to skip it next time since we have done it twice. It will be hard not to go back. Everything is so good and it just seems so Disney to eat there for some reason.

[lbuzz52]

The first few times we ate there, the shrimp were plain peel and eat shrimp. The next 2 times we ate there, the shrimp were peel and eat, but in a gooy sweet and sour sauce. My son ate a ton of them! We were so messy after eating them!

I think we had mixed grilled veggies for a side. There was some kind of tossed greens in a vinegette dressing.

The fist couple times, the dessert was a pineapple that was sliced with caramel sauce for it. It was yum! But I really like the bread pudding one too, though.

Maybe they were sweet and sour? They were definitely sticky. I just didn't really taste a flavor on them. We ate a bunch of those too! The salad description said honey lime dressing; again, not a strong flavor or either. I definitely didn't taste any vinegar. i really liked it!

the pineapple sounds interesting!


Aw, poor Maya. I hope she was just tired and felt better the next day.

Great pictures from your meal. I love the food there. We agreed to skip it next time since we have done it twice. It will be hard not to go back. Everything is so good and it just seems so Disney to eat there for some reason.

it is so tasty! I think we will definitely go back! James is such a meat eater that i'm sure it will be just as much a financial decision for us LOL. If we ever switch it up i'd like to stick to another monorail meal though- it was a nice start to the trip.

[lbuzz52]

When we last ended, Maya was freakin out about "the people in the bushes" :rotfl2: at Ohana.


9:00 p.m was approaching. Originally, we had thought we would stay and watch Wishes from the beach. At this point, I was the only one up for it. We compromised by deciding to ride the ferry over to MK instead of the monorail. (As if our car, the airport shuttle, the strollers, the plane, the faux monorail, the magical express, the Disney bus, and the monorail weren't enough for one day!)

We turned around and walked past the pool to the boat area. There was a setup ready for a movie on the beach. That went on our list of things to so on a future trip- it looked like so much fun!

We boarded the boat at a great time- 8:51. James took in the lights and sights with wide eyes. I'm relatively sure he was too young to remember his last boat ride.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0267.jpg
Polynesian


The captain pulled us into the MK just as Wishes was starting. I tried my best but have not perfected the moving night time lights and fireworks pictures on my point and shoot.


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We quickly walked to the bus stop as Wishes was completing. The next boat may have had better Wishes viewing, but we beat the majority of the crowds coming out of the park. Still, the lines were long for our resort and almost non existant for most others. (This seemed to happen frequently.) We barely made it on the first bus but I was able to get a seat with the kids. Throughout the week, we were luckily to ride with countless generous men and even women. I can't recall a time where a seat wasn't at least offered to those standing who had children.




By 9:30, we had made it back to the room, stopping to chase a frog on the way. Thankfully, we had no neighbors at this point, because Maya let out quite the squeal when she realized someone had been in our room while we were gone.

Mickey had come to leave a surprise for the kids, and had brought Rapunzel with him.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0283.jpg
A table full of surprises


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0289.jpg
James' Welcome letter from Mickey


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0287.jpg
Maya's Welcome letter from Rapunzel


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0286.jpg
James and his goodies someone get that child a haircut LOL

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Tues%20May%2010th%20travel%20day/DSCN0284.jpg
Maya with her surprises


Each was given a welcome letter, a new pair of pajamas, 2 kooky pins, a new autograph book, and a new lanyard with pins. The pins were a mix of old ones from our last trip and a few new ones from eBay. James also had a second autograph book. The new autograph books have spots for pictures next to the autographs, but only have about 15-24 pages each. We also brought Maya's from our last trip, which still had a few pages left.

Maya was beyond estatic!

"Boy, Rapunzel and Mickey must be so glad we are back. They must have really missed us to bring us all this stuff!"

It was absolutely sweet and I took it as appreciation for all my hard work and preparation for the visit.

Once the excitement died down, we noticed that there still was not a crib in the room. A quick call was made, and a few minutes later maintenance showed up with a pack n play. I was in the restroom. (you know there is a switch on the door right, everytime you close the bathroom door the phone rings or there is a knock at the door or the kids need something...) I heard Chris tell him again- we need a crib, not a pack n play. Maintenance then told us that they no longer have full size cribs, due to safety issues with the slats.

I wasn't sure why I wasn't told this at check- in, or when i called a minute ago, or even when I made the request on my reservation. While I understand why they did it with all the recent recalls, there is a serious lack of communication with the information.

Nothing we could do about it tonight though. We would try the pack n play tonight. If that didn't work we would try him sharing a bed. And if worse came to worse, we would rent a crib. At home, James still sleeps in a crib. It's partially because he will not sleep in a bed anywhere near anyone else. And it's partially because he can't get into anything from a crib. He hasn't tried to climb out so we aren't switching him until he does!

Everyone was exhausted at this point, but nothing had really been organized or unpacked. I moved everyone's clothing into their own drawer, threw all the room and park stuff into one suitcase, and called it a day.

Bedtime routines completed, we put James and Pooh Bear in the pack n play. He quickly realized if he laid diagonally then he wouldn't have to bend his legs. Maya was dosed with Ibuprofin, and the she and Rapunzel climbed into their own bed. They decided the best parts of the day were the monorail and the pool.

James must have gotten a second wind because he laid awake singing for a long time. Chris fell asleep immediately and started :headache: snoring :headache: I HATE snoring. I can't fall asleep when Chris is snoring, and it takes me a good thirty minutes ususally to get him to stop long enough for me to crash. I elbow, push, call his name, pull his pillow out from under his head. He ignores it all, or even worse, throws a dead weight leg on top of me. All the time i'm muttering, "please wake up, i really don't want to sleep on the couch". By the time he finally notices and rolls over, I'm surprised he isn't bruised :lmao: Add in the fact that there is no where to escape in this tiny 10 ft room and it feels more like a prison than a vacation!

James is usually exempt from this torture. Not tonight though, and it meant plenty of entertainment from a child who is fighting sleep. I couldn't help but laugh once James started mocking him. Have you ever heard a 2 year old pretend to snore? It's quite hilarious!

Finally it was my turn to fall asleep. It had been a great day!




Next up: We finally make it to the park! How will James do after being up until almost midnight?

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Ah, the dreaded snoring, it is my enemy as well.

[pinkxray]

Ugh, I can't fall asleep with others snoring. Luckily using all I have to do is shove or kick DH and he stops long enough for me to fall asleep. Caitlin on the other hand, will not stop no matter what you do. Next trip she gets her own room. I feel sorry for whoever has to share a room with her in the future.

Great job on the surprises for the kids. It looks like they enjoyed them

[Lidian]

Ugh, I can't fall asleep with others snoring. Luckily using all I have to do is shove or kick DH and he stops long enough for me to fall asleep. Caitlin on the other hand, will not stop no matter what you do. Next trip she gets her own room. I feel sorry for whoever has to share a room with her in the future.

Great job on the surprises for the kids. It looks like they enjoyed them

My DD was a snorer. At a well-check a few years ago, her pediatrician asked if she snored. She said it was because of her allergies, put her on meds, and she sleeps peacefully now. :confused3 Perhaps checking with your pediatrician to see if there's something that can ease it might make nights more peaceful for everyone. :goodvibes

[lbuzz52]

Ah, the dreaded snoring, it is my enemy as well.

I probably make it worse than it is. Its just one of those things that really sets me off! Luckily James was cracking me up!


Ugh, I can't fall asleep with others snoring. Luckily using all I have to do is shove or kick DH and he stops long enough for me to fall asleep. Caitlin on the other hand, will not stop no matter what you do. Next trip she gets her own room. I feel sorry for whoever has to share a room with her in the future.

Great job on the surprises for the kids. It looks like they enjoyed them

Thanks! I think it was a really nice cap to the day.

Sometimes I'd like to give DH his own room too...
If only his snores were normal like in the movies! he has a dozen different ones, and none of them are quiet! I can't say i've never left him asleep on the couch for that sole reason:lmao:

My DD was a snorer. At a well-check a few years ago, her pediatrician asked if she snored. She said it was because of her allergies, put her on meds, and she sleeps peacefully now. :confused3 Perhaps checking with your pediatrician to see if there's something that can ease it might make nights more peaceful for everyone. :goodvibes

that's an interesting thought. we all have minor allergies here. unfortunately, dh belongs to the "doctors aren't manly" club.

[PixieMama]

My DH is a snorer, too! I'm also surprised he doesn't wake up with his shins all black and blue from me kicking him, LOL!

Your DS's hair is adorably cute! Love the curls.

[lovethattink]

How wonderful!! I love the idea of a surprise at the end of the day! The note, the autograph books, pens, etc. what a great idea!

Anakin loves trying to catch frogs and lizards! Some of Florida's wildlife I love, others not so much. We had a snake in the bushes near our front door this morning. Freak me out!! It was just a racer, not poisonous, but I don't like snakes!! I can handle the frogs and lizards.

Bummer about the crib. That's funny about the snoring. I can't fall asleep with snoring either.

I have passed by movies at the Beach Club after dinner, but have yet to stay and watch a movie at one of the resorts. I'd like to check out one of the campfires too sometime.

[lbuzz52]

My DH is a snorer, too! I'm also surprised he doesn't wake up with his shins all black and blue from me kicking him, LOL!

Your DS's hair is adorably cute! Love the curls.


Thanks! That's another reason we have put off cutting his hair. SO many people tell me that once they cut their son's hair he lost all his curls. It can be really cute if I fix it, but not at the end of a long sweaty day!


How wonderful!! I love the idea of a surprise at the end of the day! The note, the autograph books, pens, etc. what a great idea!

Anakin loves trying to catch frogs and lizards! Some of Florida's wildlife I love, others not so much. We had a snake in the bushes near our front door this morning. Freak me out!! It was just a racer, not poisonous, but I don't like snakes!! I can handle the frogs and lizards.

Bummer about the crib. That's funny about the snoring. I can't fall asleep with snoring either.

I have passed by movies at the Beach Club after dinner, but have yet to stay and watch a movie at one of the resorts. I'd like to check out one of the campfires too sometime.

The kids really loved the surprises! I was happy they enjoyed them

I would not do well with snakes either. YUCK! I'm also greatful that we didn't have bus issues. I can't stand killing bugs!

Luckily the crib didn't turn out to be a problem for us. It may have if he was still an infant though. I never could get either of my kids to sleep in a pack n play.

The campfire sounds like a blast too. I think I'll have to add more days to our next trip to fit in all the fun extras. darn!

[jm106]

a great day! I love the letters from Mickeyand Rapunzle. I planned to do that when we arrived but life got too crazy efore we went,. I did have a letter from Mickey arrive at the house a few weeks before we went.
Snoring, yup hard to fall asleep for sure. Matter of fact, i amlistening to DH right next to me now snoring and I will not be happy if I cant sleep tonight. DH uses breeath right strips and they work, but he didnt tonight

[Marshay]

Just found your post trip report! Can't wait to read!:)

[PirateKate]

Dinner at Ohana looks like a lot of fun. Too bad Maya was feeling bad during it.

Did the tile by the sink at CBR make you nervous with James there? I'd be afraid one of my boys would slip and knock his head on that hard tile. I'm having second thoughts about CBR for our Oct. trip. Did you think it was a good resort for James?

I can just imagine James fake snoring. :laughing: That sounds like something Carter would do, too. He's a great mimic. Luckily, none of us are snorers.

[lbuzz52]

a great day! I love the letters from Mickey and Rapunzle. I planned to do that when we arrived but life got too crazy efore we went,. I did have a letter from Mickey arrive at the house a few weeks before we went.
Snoring, yup hard to fall asleep for sure. Matter of fact, i amlistening to DH right next to me now snoring and I will not be happy if I cant sleep tonight. DH uses breeath right strips and they work, but he didnt tonight


It's funny how crazy life can get before a trip. It's almost inevitable that something you were not planning on pops up.
We skipped the pre-trip letters this time. Last trip, i did the Fairy godmother postcards, but with us not knowing if we were going to tell them until last minute, i decided it was too risky.
Breathe right strips, huh? i wonder if i could get DH to wear them:confused3

Just found your post trip report! Can't wait to read!:)

:welcome:

Thanks for joining in. Tell me when you start yours too!

Dinner at Ohana looks like a lot of fun. Too bad Maya was feeling bad during it.

Did the tile by the sink at CBR make you nervous with James there? I'd be afraid one of my boys would slip and knock his head on that hard tile. I'm having second thoughts about CBR for our Oct. trip. Did you think it was a good resort for James?

I can just imagine James fake snoring. :laughing: That sounds like something Carter would do, too. He's a great mimic. Luckily, none of us are snorers.

It was a nice place. We will definitely be back.

Surprisingly, i didn't worry about the tile. It seemed to dry quickly, because i have no memories of it being wet- despite all the sink usage and drying our bathing suits there. He didn't spend much time over there, other than when we were bathing/ brushing teeth ready and then he was supervised. It just didn't really appeal to him. My mom's kitchen tile makes me extrememly nervous. It will knot your head if you think about falling.

You have to keep in mind that we have never stayed in a place that is super themed like pop. But we really enjoyed it. The pools were great for him, between the zero entry and the toddler pirate area. He loved the playground and arcade. We saw some sort of animal everytime we left the room. And the walk from our area to the main building OPR always had something to look at. I wouldn't hesitate to take a toddler back. I know that Photographymom517 took her toddler son a year or so ago also, she may have an opinion for you too if you ask. She's very friendly.

I think it would be such fun to get James and your boys together. I have a feeling we'd both be in stitches. :rotfl:

[lbuzz52]

Dinner at Ohana looks like a lot of fun. Too bad Maya was feeling bad during it.

Did the tile by the sink at CBR make you nervous with James there? I'd be afraid one of my boys would slip and knock his head on that hard tile. I'm having second thoughts about CBR for our Oct. trip. Did you think it was a good resort for James?

I can just imagine James fake snoring. :laughing: That sounds like something Carter would do, too. He's a great mimic. Luckily, none of us are snorers.

When is Carter's birthday? It just clicked to me that he and James have to be very close in age.

[lbuzz52]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d832b3127ccefd0ee756901f00000030O01QcsmLFq0Yg9 vPgQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I officially have a snaggletooth!:lovestruc

[lbuzz52]

When we last left off, we had just gone to sleep in preparation for our first park day!


Wednesday, May 11th


I woke up and had absolutely no idea what time it was. I was certain we had overslept. I got up and checked the clock. 6:00. By that point I was awake. We didn't fully unpack and I knew it would take a while to get the park bags around. But I didn't want to wake everyone else up yet. I stood there for a while staring at my sleeping babies. What is it about sleeping children that brings such warmth to your heart? I just want to wake them up and kiss them to pieces!

I decided to walk to OPR and get coffee. It was extremely quiet and the sun was still on it's way up. OPR doesn't open until 630, so I sat at the outdoor tables and watched the CM's power-wash the seating area. Soon the doors opened and I grabbed a cup of nescrappe before heading back to the room to shower.




I finally got everyone else up at 720.

Apparently we had another visitor overnight, because Maya found a note left for James. It was an invitation for Harmony Barber Shop, for a first hair cut.

(By the way, thanks again to Shadowryter for all the invites!)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/First_Haircut_Invite_James_2.jpg


If you read my PTR, then you know that James has been in need of a haircut for a LONG while. As in months! I held off though, knowing that we were on the cusp of a trip to Disney. But it was hard. Every day I contemplated trimming it. I figured Mickey would never know. But I would know. So poor James, I tortured him daily by wetting his hair and gelling it so the curls would stay in. Otherwise it would straighten as soon as he laid down for a nap or sat in his carseat- and then we had a borderline mullet goin on! I didn't do the gel before the plane ride yesterday, and today the hair had to be free of product for Harmony, so there may be some intersting hair shots here the first couple days!




We all got ready and I packed a quick park bag. I had remembered to bring ribbon to tie on the strollers to make them pop. Only it didn't standout because it was too thin. I had brought labels with our name and phone number, so I stuck one in a sticky badge holder and affixed it to the stroller bags.

It was 8:40 before we got out of the room! But we caught the bus immediately and were on our way to the Magic Kingdom! I'm happy to say that most mornings i remembered to take a picture of my children in case we got separated.



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James free of hair product picture... should have slept LOL


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Maya


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Have you ever seen someone so excited to go through a gate?


(Side note- I bought Chris's shirt at Target before we left. I cannot tell you how many times i saw this shirt over the week. It was almost as common as Disney shirts.)


We missed the rope drop by a few minutes, so we decided to stop when we saw a photopass doing the Tink shot. James had no interest in getting in the picture. He didn't really have any idea where we were. He just knew that we were not at home and there were plenty of people around!

Before we left, I was a bit nervous with the overall crowd levels. The numbers, although still moderate, were higher than our last trip. Plus Disney had added lots of Fantasmic shows (2x/ night) and a few MSEPs. I had played around with Ridemax. I figured better to be prepared, and hopefully we would not need it.

We made our way towards Dumbo. On our ridemax plan, if we had made rope-drop Dumbo would have only been minutes. But by this point it was already 35 minutes. We decided to skip it for now; we'd have plenty of chances to do it later. Next on our Ridemax plan was the Speedway. It was scheduled at 920, and it was 9:20 now. We headed there.


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It was a good place to start. James was still acting a bit overwhelmed and cars are right up his alley! Ridemax showed a 7 minute wait. It took about 20 to get through the line. James spent the time trying to run off.


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James after we made him stay with us.


I spent the time sweating. That bridge is seriously one hot spot!

I rode with Maya and I have to say, I'm glad she has many years before she starts driving!


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With the line being longer than Ridemax anticipated, I was certain we were in for a rough day. I decided to go on with the plan for a while longer. (If I had been thinking I would have realized the wait time was different because there was only one lane open at the Speedway when we went through!)

We were behind the "schedule" again because of the extra wait. Ridemax would suggest to skip ahead to get yourself back on schedule. But we decided to go on with the plan's next attraction- double Space Mountain.


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If we had been on time, ridemax suggested the wait would be 7 minutes each ride. The posted wait time said 10. Close enough!

Space was a new ride for all of us. It was being refurbished last trip (Chris's first ever trip). I had the opportunity as a child but was always too scared to ride it.

I asked Maya if she wanted to ride it, and she declined. So we grabbed a babyswap and I was off to my most anticipated ride of the trip. The line was actually no wait other than the walk time.

I was immediately glad that Maya didn't ride with me. If the dark had not scared her, the spinning and jerkiness would have. It could have completely changed her willingness to ride many other things over the course of the trip.

I got off the ride and was a bit disoriented with the signage. Unfortunately there was no one else around for me to follow, and I think I was headed in the direction to ride again (is that possible without exiting the building?) I seriously had no idea where i was going and was wishing i'd see anyone. I turned around and finally found my way to daylight.

Maya was jumping up and down when I returned.

"Chip & Dale!"

Chris went to take his turn on Space while I took the kids to meet Chip and Dale. I held my opinions so he could ride unbiased.

We grabbed the pens and autograph books and jumped in the short line. James looked them over carefully.


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When it was our turn, he refused to get out of the stroller. He didn't know who these characters were or why he was supposed to hug these massive furballs.

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While we were in line we saw Stitch come out too. Chris had not made it back yet so we continued to his line. Once again, I asked James if he would like a turn.

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James was not interested. By this point I had made up my mind to not let James wear this shirt again. He seemed to be taking it to heart :rotfl2:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0317.jpg

All of a sudden Maya pulls her hands back and says no. I ask her what is wrong?


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0318.jpg


"Stitch is trying to take my pen!"


Stitch points at her pen and then makes a heart shape with his hands. His handler then understood.

"oh- Stitch has a major crush on Jesse!"

She was using her new Jesse kooky pen.

Maya asked where Lilo was, and we were told she was still in bed'


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Chris returned from Space, and he felt the same way that I had. It was awfully jerky and Maya would not have liked it.


Continued next post due to image limits

[lbuzz52]

Wed. May 11th cont.

As we walked through the rest of Tomorrowland, we noticed that the wait times were all very reasonable. We decided at this point to forgo the Ridemax plan, and just make a new one if it was needed later. I didn't really end up using Ridemax the rest of the trip. I did play around with a couple plans when we needed ride length times or show times to figure how much we could fit in. But it just wasn't needed for touring with the crowd levels we had. I'm sure it could have saved us a little time here and there- but it was more structured than what we were looking for. Now if the crowds were really heavy I think I'd use it in a heartbeat.

By now we realized we had made one of the ultimate rooky mistakes. We neglected to get fastpasses earlier when we were in Fantasyland. I sent Chris to get a set- Pooh or Peter, whatever had the quicker return time. James and I waited in the covered area across from Buzz. It seemed like it was taking Chris forever, so I passed the time by taking pictures of our KTTW & photopass.

Yes, I said KTTW. It was then I realized I still had 2 KTTW from park entry earlier. Whoops! Make that a double rooky mistake. Maybe when he realized he only had half our tickets, he went to Splash or Thunder instead? We would only need 2 FP for those.

Nope, he didn't read my mind. It just took him a while. He had grabbed 2 for Pooh, and also got 2 surprise FP for Philharmagic.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0311.jpg


The standby line for Buzz's Space Ranger Spin said 10 minutes. But once again, it was walk on. It was my first time riding it. It took me a while to get the hang of it. James had a blast though.

On the way out we stopped for the obligatory Zurg picture in the dump shop. I told Maya to act frightened.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0315.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0316.jpg
Doesn’t’ she look scared LOL


By this point I was ready to smoke. Chris and the kids waited in a shaded area while I headed off to the place I smoked in Tomorrowland last trip. It was no longer a smoking area. So I headed back to Chris to get a park map and find the new DSA.

I'm not going to highlight each and every smoke break I took over the trip. I took one probably on average every 3-4 hours. But I know that there are still a few of us left with the habit. So I'm bringing this up now to point out that there are fewer DSA's than there were in 09, and that some that still exist have been moved. I will also say that Disney does a good job of making the designated smoking areas hidden and in a spot where they won't bother too many people.

So far we had ridden rides for James, and rides for Chris and I. Maya had been patiently waiting for her turn. It was time for one of her favorites.


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http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0322.jpg


Chris can't handle these, so he watched from the sidelines while I rode with the kids. At first James did well walking himself through the line.


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Thankfully the wait was only five minutes, because after a minute James felt the downtime would best be spent anywhere but next to me. (Apparently this is a super fun game!)


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I watched James during the ride. At times he was all smiles, but other times he looked quite nervous.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0328.jpg

I'm still not sure what he felt about it. Maya was a bit easier to decipher.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0327.jpg


We exited and met back up with Chris and the strollers.

Only now, James refused to get back into his stroller. We couldn't figure out why. He wouldn’t get out of the stroller the rest of the morning, and now he wouldn't get back in?

Then Maya pointed it out to us.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hmmm, I wonder what the mysterious reason is for the avoidance of the stroller?

[DisneyMomma09]

It sounds like you are off to a great start! I love the invite for the haircut! Did James seem to understand the letters? I would love to do things like this for our trip in August, but I am not sure how much Colby would understand.

I'm looking forward to reading about your experience at the Barber Shop. Colby got his first cut there last June and got another one when we were there in February. They do an awesome job and I wish we could take Colby there for all his haircuts!

Looking forward to finding out what was keeping James out of the stroller...

[lbuzz52]

Hmmm, I wonder what the mysterious reason is for the avoidance of the stroller?

:confused3

we thought he was just being difficult- but he had a good reason!

[Lidian]

Oooo! A mystery!

Hmm.... there was a bug in the stroller?
... he needed a restroom/change?
... the stroller was too hot?

Can't wait to hear what the reason was! popcorn::

Totally loving the update! I felt the same way about Space Mtn. I swear, last year, I loved it. This year ... not so much. :rolleyes:

Can't wait to hear about how you handled the FPs, since you had 2 for Pooh and 2 for Philhar.

Oh, and as a mom of an asthmatic child - THANK YOU for going to a DSA instead of lighting up whenever you felt the need. I saw so many people who were rude and I was having to steer DD clear of them. :sad2: I am, however, sorry that the DSAs have been downsized. (As a former smoker, I feel your pain of not having areas as handy as they used to be.)

[Villainess]

I'm joining in! Great TR so far!!! Sorry to hear Maya had a fever - I hope the MK day and all the fun made it disappear for the rest of the trip!

[lbuzz52]

Oooo! A mystery!

Hmm.... there was a bug in the stroller?
... he needed a restroom/change?
... the stroller was too hot?

Can't wait to hear what the reason was! popcorn::

Totally loving the update! I felt the same way about Space Mtn. I swear, last year, I loved it. This year ... not so much. :rolleyes:

Can't wait to hear about how you handled the FPs, since you had 2 for Pooh and 2 for Philhar.

Oh, and as a mom of an asthmatic child - THANK YOU for going to a DSA instead of lighting up whenever you felt the need. I saw so many people who were rude and I was having to steer DD clear of them. :sad2: I am, however, sorry that the DSAs have been downsized. (As a former smoker, I feel your pain of not having areas as handy as they used to be.)


I wonder how i would have felt about Space if I had started riding it in the height of my thrill ride days. I swear there was a time that it would not have bothered me. But of any ride on WDW property, i could see Space as the one to make me queasy.

Less DSA's just keeps you focused on the task at hand... better have the map to find them. People are wierd about them though. I can't tell you how many families i saw sitting with one of both parents smoking and the kids just sitting there in the midst of a dozen smokers. or the one near BTMRR- there were people having picnics there. Seriously? There are six small places in the whole park that will have smoke and you choose to feed your children there verses anywhere else? i don't want to smoke around my children or yours.
and Bravo for putting your child's needs ahead of yours!! :love:

No worries on the outcome of the FP... we are DIS'ers, you know:lmao:


Here, i'll add to the mystery- before this moment, i was worried about how the whole trip was going to go with James- but not after.



I'm joining in! Great TR so far!!! Sorry to hear Maya had a fever - I hope the MK day and all the fun made it disappear for the rest of the trip!


:welcome: Thanks for reading along!

I forgot to update on the fever in my post. Maya had a fever that wore her our Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. But by Wednesday morning (the Mk day), her fever was so light that we couldn't tell if it was fever or just hot because she woke up from the blanket. She never felt hot enough to need any more tylenol :dance3:


It sounds like you are off to a great start! I love the invite for the haircut! Did James seem to understand the letters? I would love to do things like this for our trip in August, but I am not sure how much Colby would understand.

I'm looking forward to reading about your experience at the Barber Shop. Colby got his first cut there last June and got another one when we were there in February. They do an awesome job and I wish we could take Colby there for all his haircuts!

Looking forward to finding out what was keeping James out of the stroller...

It was a great morning. well, a great day actually. Nothing beats the first day in a Disney vacation!

I wish that we could have every haircut there too. i'd probaly get my own hair cut a bit more frequently :rotfl:

I'm not really sure how to answer that question. James understands much more than I think he does, and that really became apparent when we were out of our normal element on this trip. I think he understood that they meant something special, but may not have known exactly what he was in for. James had his sister to help him "get it", but Colby has experience. You could always try one or two.

[ctink23]

I'm joining in, too. Love your trip report so far!

Too bad Maya was sick. Seems like she felt a little better on the MK day? Hope she stays well for the trip!

Love the notes and gifts for your kids. What a great idea!

[Moira222]

[COLOR="Black"] When we last ended, Maya was freakin out about "the people in the bushes" :rotfl2: at Ohana.

LOL I had a feeling...

James must have gotten a second wind because he laid awake singing for a long time. Chris fell asleep immediately and started :headache: snoring :headache: I HATE snoring. I can't fall asleep when Chris is snoring, and it takes me a good thirty minutes ususally to get him to stop long enough for me to crash. I elbow, push, call his name, pull his pillow out from under his head. He ignores it all, or even worse, throws a dead weight leg on top of me. All the time i'm muttering, "please wake up, i really don't want to sleep on the couch". By the time he finally notices and rolls over, I'm surprised he isn't bruised :lmao: Add in the fact that there is no where to escape in this tiny 10 ft room and it feels more like a prison than a vacation!

James is usually exempt from this torture. Not tonight though, and it meant plenty of entertainment from a child who is fighting sleep. I couldn't help but laugh once James started mocking him. Have you ever heard a 2 year old pretend to snore? It's quite hilarious!

Finally it was my turn to fall asleep. It had been a great day! It was a great day! The snoring cracks me up. When we traveled to WDW with DSIL in 2009 I quite literally dragged my pillow with me into the bathtub and shut the door to try to drown out the snoring. I love the picture I have in my mind of James in the playpen imitating daddy snoring:rotfl2::rotfl2:

Your letters & invitations are so nice what a great idea!



http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d832b3127ccefd0ee756901f00000030O01QcsmLFq0Yg9 vPgQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I officially have a snaggletooth!:lovestruc
She is a cutie pie!!

[SIZE="3"]

Only now, James refused to get back into his stroller. We couldn't figure out why. He wouldn’t get out of the stroller the rest of the morning, and now he wouldn't get back in?

Then Maya pointed it out to us.

Hmmmm was the Mad Hatter in the area?

[lbuzz52]

I'm joining in, too. Love your trip report so far!

Too bad Maya was sick. Seems like she felt a little better on the MK day? Hope she stays well for the trip!

Love the notes and gifts for your kids. What a great idea!

:welcome::welcome:

she did seem to get over the virus, thankfully. It was so hot and having a fever on top of it would have surely not been a good thing.

i loved doing the little notes. it gave the kids something to look forward to each day (and a reason to pop out of bed wehn they were still tired LOL). and it was cost efficient too!

LOL I had a feeling...
It was a great day! The snoring cracks me up. When we traveled to WDW with DSIL in 2009 I quite literally dragged my pillow with me into the bathtub and shut the door to try to drown out the snoring. I love the picture I have in my mind of James in the playpen imitating daddy snoring:rotfl2::rotfl2:

Your letters & invitations are so nice what a great idea!




She is a cutie pie!!



Hmmmm was the Mad Hatter in the area?

snoring is my ENEMY:rotfl: Thankfully, this was the only night it was really bad. All of us breath better in Florida than we do at home. James was so funny though. i wish i'd been able to get my video camera for it. i can't believe you had to get in teh bathtub- now that is an image in my head:lmao::lmao:

Maya's so proud of losing her first tooth! She thinks she's a grown up now:rotfl2:

No, not the Mad Hatter- but you just may be on the right track:confused3


i have to look at that mug link. i started to but there are sooo many options!

[LeeLee'sMom]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d832b3127ccefd0ee756901f00000030O01QcsmLFq0Yg9 vPgQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I officially have a snaggletooth!:lovestruc

:cool1::thumbsup2 watch how many times you will hear "I'm a big girl now I have a missing tooth." :rotfl2: Congrats to Maya:woohoo:

[Marshay]

Finally all caught up and loving your TR. Mine will be starting VERY soon! I finally got all the pics loaded!

Going back...

- love the phrase "maya's job was to alert us if james did anything but stand there!":rotfl2:

- yes, it is soooo sad to see all those folks waiting to boad the plane. They look tired, crowded and so sad. I hate when that is me! Now we have switched to taking the autotrain back from FL and it is so different. The train is an experience and totally extends the vacation. Now, I'm not sure how long the girls will still enjoy the train ... but for now it's great!

- Awesome location at CBR

- We stayed there once too -- loved looking for turtles adn such. How cool you saw an alligator!

- That pirate ship pool is AWESOME!! They didn't have that when we were there.

- love O'hanas and the Poly!! That is my favorite resort (stayed 2x) and it just feels sooo welcome to me with all the flowers, greenery, waterfalls ... and yes, even the tiki men!

-- poor Maya was so tired at O'hanas. Hope she feels better

- Such a great mom to have surprises!! I just bought my DD5 those same Rapunzel pajamas and gave them to her on our May trip.

- SNoring should be outlawed! I'm very fortunate that Jerry doesn't. My heart goes out to you listening to him snore.

- Glad you got on Space Mtn. DD5 tried it for her first time this May and didn't like it.

- congrats on Maya's first lost tooth! We are still waiting for ours from DD5.

Your TR is very good! I enjoy reading the stories and seeing the pics!:thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

:cool1::thumbsup2 watch how many times you will hear "I'm a big girl now I have a missing tooth." :rotfl2: Congrats to Maya:woohoo:

Oh, i'm already figuring that out :lmao::lmao:

She's switched from "when i grow up" to "when i grow up the rest of the way"

[Pimama]

Ahhh man...I just read these first 7 pages this morning and now I have to wait for more. Thanks for sharing your trip. I'm only able to keep up with a few trips at a time- there are so many and some move so fast!

[lbuzz52]

I've got a real knack for posting when others are posting :rotfl2:

Finally all caught up and loving your TR. Mine will be starting VERY soon! I finally got all the pics loaded!

Going back...

- love the phrase "maya's job was to alert us if james did anything but stand there!":rotfl2:


She is good at it too! One of her favorite pasttimes is being a tattletell. One of the meanings of the name Maya is mother, and we joke that it stands for mother hen:lmao:


- yes, it is soooo sad to see all those folks waiting to boad the plane. They look tired, crowded and so sad. I hate when that is me! Now we have switched to taking the autotrain back from FL and it is so different. The train is an experience and totally extends the vacation. Now, I'm not sure how long the girls will still enjoy the train ... but for now it's great!


I think it would definitely add an extra fun experience. i hope we have an opportunity to try it some day


- Awesome location at CBR

We thought so too.

- We stayed there once too -- loved looking for turtles adn such. How cool you saw an alligator!

well, i'm not convinced but Maya sure was. i think they were just messin with her. i loved all the wildlife though.


- That pirate ship pool is AWESOME!! They didn't have that when we were there.

it was great! a perfect place to reintroduce children to water after a long winter hiatus.


- love O'hanas and the Poly!! That is my favorite resort (stayed 2x) and it just feels sooo welcome to me with all the flowers, greenery, waterfalls ... and yes, even the tiki men!

I agree. Maybe the tiki men wont scare her so bad if she has time to see them in the light first?

-- poor Maya was so tired at O'hanas. Hope she feels better

thankfully, her fever never came back after tuedsay.

- Such a great mom to have surprises!! I just bought my DD5 those same Rapunzel pajamas and gave them to her on our May trip.

Isn't it nice to please your kid and get something you need all in one!

- SNoring should be outlawed! I'm very fortunate that Jerry doesn't. My heart goes out to you listening to him snore.

I'd sign that petition!


- Glad you got on Space Mtn. DD5 tried it for her first time this May and didn't like it.

Your dd is brave!

- congrats on Maya's first lost tooth! We are still waiting for ours from DD5.

thanks! i wasn't quite expecting it yet. i hope there is no coorelation between early tooth loss and early to mature :scared1:


Your TR is very good! I enjoy reading the stories and seeing the pics!:thumbsup2

thanks! i'm having fun writing it. :goodvibes

[pinkxray]

Love the MK update:thumbsup2

I had some comments in mind but then you go and leave us with a cliff hanger. It's not Mad Hatter....the Red Queen(is that her name) from Alice in Wonderland?

I can't wait to see how James first haricut turns out. I love/hate seeing little boys getting their cute little curls get cut off. I hate that the cute little curls disappear, but it is amazing how babies turn into little toddler boys instantly with a snip of some scissors. Can't wait to see the after pictures.

[lbuzz52]

Love the MK update:thumbsup2

I had some comments in mind but then you go and leave us with a cliff hanger. It's not Mad Hatter....the Red Queen(is that her name) from Alice in Wonderland?

I can't wait to see how James first haricut turns out. I love/hate seeing little boys getting their cute little curls get cut off. I hate that the cute little curls disappear, but it is amazing how babies turn into little toddler boys instantly with a snip of some scissors. Can't wait to see the after pictures.

nope, but again on the right path!

i have the same problem. i'm so hesitant for either of my kids to grow up. I know each stage brings more fun, but it also brings me closer to the point where mommy is a dork and they dont need me.


Ahhh man...I just read these first 7 pages this morning and now I have to wait for more. Thanks for sharing your trip. I'm only able to keep up with a few trips at a time- there are so many and some move so fast!

:welcome:

thanks for reading! its really hard to keep up, isn't it. it would be easier to just read at the end but that's no fun!

I hope to have another update tomorrow.

[lynlink]

Loving this!!! Can't wait for the next update!

[lbuzz52]

Wed May 11th cont.

In the last installment, James had spent the better part of the morning refusing to get out of the stroller. Now, all of a sudden after the Mad Tea Party, he refused to get in.
___________________________






James took off running. He's a pretty quick little dude.

"James, get back here"


"Pooh Baayer"


"Tig-der!"


Two of James' favorites! In fact, Pooh was the first Disney character James fell in love with!

Chris quickly grabbed James while I parked the strollers. The line was a good twenty minutes or so, but there was no way we would be able to pass this by. And I wouldn't have wanted to anyway. This was the first thing that James had shown significant interest in all day. I grabbed fastpasses for Peter Pan and joined my group in line. Actually, I just stood next to them but outside the line. I didn't want to push through everyone and make them all crabby. It ended up a good choice though, because first I went back to the stroller to get the books, then the water, then more water.

Maya chatted with the CM's while we were waiting.

"Excuse me sir, did you know that Pooh is my brother's favorite!"

When it was our turn, James walked right to Tigger and Pooh and gave them hugs.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0329.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0330.jpg


It was as if he had been doing this forever! He even smiled for pictures! Maya soon joined him and they took a few as a group.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0331.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0332.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0333.jpg
Apparently James thought Tigger was thisty too!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0335.jpg


We needed to let someone else have a turn, so I called the kids over. I started to put my camera away. But James turned around and ran off again- right back up to Pooh- and gave him a big kiss! (Sorry folks behind us whose meet & greet my child jumped in!) I was so bummed I missed photographing it!

James walked back over to us with a swing in his step. A swagger. And with that Grumpy was Grumpy no more:thumbsup2


We decided we were hungry at this point. Today we were going to try Pinocchio's Village Haus for the first time. Maya was hungry after skipping dinner last night; she wanted her own meal. James is not on the dining plan because he's under three. I ordered our three dining plan meals, then I paid for James out of pocket ($5.23). Chris waited for the food while I took the kids to find a seat. I had all intentions of sitting upstairs for a good view of It's a Small World, but it was HOT up there! We settled on a downstairs table not far from the action.


James is still giddy from meeting the two objects of his affection. He is dancing:dancer: on his seat. It's so cute that instead of telling him to stop I just hold out my arm to steady him. I don't have the heart to make him stop. He's slept with Pooh and Tigger since he was barely crawling.

Chris finally arrives with the food and it looks quite tasty. The kids both chose macaroni and cheese- one with grapes and one with applesauce. Its a horrible picture, but I remembered to take it.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0338.jpg


James especially enjoyed his.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0342.jpg


Chris got chicken nuggets and fries.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0336.jpg


I got a grilled chicken salad. It was technically a caeser, but there was ranch on the condiment bar so I went with that. Mine also came with fries? The kids and i shared those. It was a nice choice for a hot day- filling, but not too heavy.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0337.jpg


None of us typically eat dessert for lunch, so we saved the cookies for later and all shared the chocolate cake and a strawberry cheesecake. They were both good choices to calm a sweet tooth.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0341.jpg
the cake was much cuter before i dropped it on the floor upside down!



After lunch we walked back outside and were met with extreme heat. We know heat at home. Generally our humidity is comparable to Orlando but our temps are slightly warmer. However, it's the beginning of the summer season. And we have had record rains the past 6 weeks. Our pasty skin just wasn't used to the sun yet. The actual high this day ended up at 96 but I'm surprised it wasn't higher.

We decided the best was to combat this heat would be to go back inside. So a walk- on Philharmagic sounded perfect! We didn't discover this gem until the end of our last trip, and we now all love this show! For the first time, both kids actually kept the glasses on! It's so cute watching them both try to catch Donald and the various things flying at them.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0344.jpg
moving camera phone picture


After the show Chris went for more fastpasses. He grabbed 1 for Pooh to go with the 2 he picked up earlier. He then also grabbed 2 for Splash. We only need 2 anyway with the baby swap.

While Chris was playing fastpass runner, I took the kids to see the 1pm show at the Castle. Well, I thought I did. I noted that I took the kids, but James isn't in any of the next set of pictures so maybe he went with Chris? I'd call Chris and ask him but i'm pretty sure i'd get an earful.

So- the castle show- 1:00 passed, as did 1:05 and 1:10. Finally an announcement was made.

"We apologize, but due to technical difficulties the 1pm showing of Dream Along with Mickey will not occur............But please stay and say hello to some of your favorite Disney friends!"

At that time we see Minnie and Mickey come out, as well as Cinderella and Prince Charming, Aurora and Prince Phillip, Snow White and her Prince, and Peter Pan and Wendy. We were nearest Aurora, so we jumped into the line that formed in front of her. Who can resist a Princess with her Prince?


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0345.jpg
I love everyone's facial expressions here.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0346.jpg


Chris had taken James with him to get the fastpasses. Unfortunately, he had also taken all 4 autograph books with him. I'd like to say that was the last time we did that this trip, but I'm pretty sure it was not even the last time that day :rolleyes1

By the time we were completing our meet with Aurora and Phillip, an announcement was made that our Disney friends would have to leave in 10 minutes. Perfect! We had time to meet another set. We chose Peter Pan and Wendy. We had missed these 2 on our last trip.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0348.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0350.jpg


We took our pictures right as they were announcing that there were just five minutes left. By then the lines were growing somewhat lengthy; I didn't think we'd make it through before they cut them off. Maya was disappointed but I assured her that we would meet the others over the trip. We settled for just taking a picture of Snow White and her Prince from afar. I knew we would see the others at ADR's.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0352.jpg




Chris made it over at some point, so after a quick potty break, we decided to see if Its a Small World was still one of James' favorites. He was 9 months at the last trip, and was absolutely stunned by the lights and sights of the ride. Normally this ride doesn't make it to my favorites list, but we rode at least 3 times just to watch his reactions.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0354.jpg


It was the height of the afternoon and wait time was about 15 minutes. James thought it was hilarious to spend the time trying to escape. I'd like to apologize to anyone who may have been near us- my children have no respect for personal space. He did enjoy the ride, but not to the extreme that he had as an infant.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0353.jpg


We had to stop back at Pinocchio's after IASW. We really needed some more ice water. Plus, there's a bathroom right there. Of course it was time for a bathroom break- it had been probably 30 minutes:rotfl2:

Next up was Peter Pan. The standby was about 45 minutes, but FP line was walk on. Peter is such a great ride! It's definitely a childhood favorite of mine, and is quickly becoming one of Maya's. I saw a tv show once where a husband and wife were on the phone. The wife was talking away- so much so that she didn't notice that her husband had walked away from his end of the phone. Maya reminds me of that commercial on a daily basis. I always have to tell her to stop and take a breath. This ride was no exception.

"Look Momma, there is Nana."

"Look Momma there is Hook."

"Look Momma, there are the mermaids and Ariel!"

ETC ETC ETC.

I contemplated using the earplugs I brought for James.:lmao:






Next: We Celebrate!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

James and the Pooh Bear interaction sounds absolutely adorable. I love it when children and adults get excited about seeing a character. :thumbsup2

I am jealous that you got a meet and greet with Aurora and Prince Philip! I would love that!

[lbuzz52]

Loving this!!! Can't wait for the next update!

:welcome:Lyndsay! I'm glad to see you here!

Your's trip is coming up soon! It seems like just yesterday we were talking ADR's!

[lbuzz52]

James and the Pooh Bear interaction sounds absolutely adorable. I love it when children and adults get excited about seeing a character. :thumbsup2

I am jealous that you got a meet and greet with Aurora and Prince Philip! I would love that!

it was so cute! there is a great picture on my photopass, if i ever get done with my edits. I was so thankful that he found them because up until then i wasn't sure he was going to enjoy himself this trip.

Aurora and Phillip were a pleasant surprise! I don't think they are usually together except for maybe at the Halloween party? Definitely a stroke of good timing!

[Lidian]

That's adorable that he spotted Pooh and Tigger! That's a great reason to deny sitting in the stroller and being wheeled away from what you love! :cloud9:

He didn't look like he enjoyed that mac n cheese at all. :rolleyes1 :lmao:

Sorry to hear that the 1pm show was cancelled - I do hope that you got to see a later one. But that was awesome they brought characters out! And you were able to meet two sets of them!!! Amazing! :wizard:

I think I had the "ranch" ceasar salad in 2009. :lmao:

Aurora and Phillip were a pleasant surprise! I don't think they are usually together except for maybe at the Halloween party? Definitely a stroke of good timing!

It is totally awesome you got to see the Aurora with Phillip! :cloud9:

And out of all the Princesses, Snow White is the only one I haven't spotted with her Prince. (Thanks for the picture, always wondered what her Prince looked like as a face character.)

We've seen Aurora with Phillip several times - but always at Epcot. Perhaps Epcot is just better at giving their Princesses a Prince?

Granted, we've not got to meet any Princes, as the lines are always long ... but we do see them in passing around WSC every year. :goodvibes

[PirateKate]

I'm glad James got to meet his two favorites. It sounds like seeing Pooh and Tigger made his day. That's an awesome macaroni and cheese beard. My boys eat a lot of mac and cheese, but I think James has them beat. :rotfl:

When is Carter's birthday? It just clicked to me that he and James have to be very close in age.

Carter's birthday is Feb. 12. When's James'?

[Marshay]

And with that Grumpy was Grumpy no more:thumbsup2

James especially enjoyed his.

It's so cute watching them both try to catch Donald and the various things flying at them.

"We apologize, but due to technical difficulties the 1pm showing of Dream Along with Mickey will not occur............But please stay and say hello to some of your favorite Disney friends!"



yeah for James growing up right before your eyes!! How awesome that he got to see his beloved characters...and too funny that he ran back to give Pooh one more hug!

Gotta love that mac and cheese

We tried Mickey's Philharmagic, only b/c we got the bonus FP too. Both our girls loved it. Even Elie (DD2) kept her glasses on. I was surprised by that.

How totally awesome that you got to see Aurora and her prince!! They don't normally come out after the show, do they? You had a very rare opportunity! Great timing!!:thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

That's adorable that he spotted Pooh and Tigger! That's a great reason to deny sitting in the stroller and being wheeled away from what you love! :cloud9:

He didn't look like he enjoyed that mac n cheese at all. :rolleyes1 :lmao:

Sorry to hear that the 1pm show was cancelled - I do hope that you got to see a later one. But that was awesome they brought characters out! And you were able to meet two sets of them!!! Amazing! :wizard:

I think I had the "ranch" ceasar salad in 2009. :lmao:



It is totally awesome you got to see the Aurora with Phillip! :cloud9:

And out of all the Princesses, Snow White is the only one I haven't spotted with her Prince. (Thanks for the picture, always wondered what her Prince looked like as a face character.)

We've seen Aurora with Phillip several times - but always at Epcot. Perhaps Epcot is just better at giving their Princesses a Prince?

Granted, we've not got to meet any Princes, as the lines are always long ... but we do see them in passing around WSC every year. :goodvibes


I couldn't deny James- this could possibly be recorded as the moment he fell in love with Disney! At least that's what i'm going to tell him when he asks about this trip. It sure changed his mood.

James and his food have a very close relationship! James and his fork- not so much:lmao:

No worries about missing the show- don't tell Chris, but it was mostly an excuse to be too busy to go get the fastpasses! It definitely worked out in my favor.


We didn't get to the World Showcase until after dark last trip, so we missed Princes there. We ended up having the same long line luck as you a time or two later in the trip with other prince/princess pairs.


I'm glad James got to meet his two favorites. It sounds like seeing Pooh and Tigger made his day. That's an awesome macaroni and cheese beard. My boys eat a lot of mac and cheese, but I think James has them beat. :rotfl:



Carter's birthday is Feb. 12. When's James'?

If Pooh and Tigger didn't make his day, they made mine :goodvibes

I think i've told you before that James likes to eat! Its not unusual for him to eat more than Maya! He's been a foodie since before he was born!

James is Jan 28th. I knew they had to be close in age!


yeah for James growing up right before your eyes!! How awesome that he got to see his beloved characters...and too funny that he ran back to give Pooh one more hug!

Gotta love that mac and cheese

We tried Mickey's Philharmagic, only b/c we got the bonus FP too. Both our girls loved it. Even Elie (DD2) kept her glasses on. I was surprised by that.

How totally awesome that you got to see Aurora and her prince!! They don't normally come out after the show, do they? You had a very rare opportunity! Great timing!!:thumbsup2

He was so cute. We had an ADR for CP later in the week, so i was sort of planning on just waiting until then. I had NO IDEA how important this meeting would be for him!

Philharmagic is one of the few 3D things that kept James entertained enough to keep the glasses on. i think its the perfect place for a cool afternoon break!

We were very pleased by our chance meeting with Aurora!

I got your update; your TR is on the same thread as your PTR, right? i'll be over to catch up tonight!

[ctink23]

How cute that James had to see Pooh and Tigger! And I love that Maya told the CMs that Pooh and Tigger were his favorites. Adorable!

Too bad about the Dream Along with Mickey show, but getting to meet a bunch of characters (especially in pairs) definitely makes up for it. :)

[Chaitali]

Sounds like a great day! Peter Pan is one of my favorite rides too. We say Philharmagic for the first time last month and it became another favorite. We had to go back later in the week and see it again. The photos of James with Pooh and Tigger are absolutely adorable!

[lbuzz52]

How cute that James had to see Pooh and Tigger! And I love that Maya told the CMs that Pooh and Tigger were his favorites. Adorable!

Too bad about the Dream Along with Mickey show, but getting to meet a bunch of characters (especially in pairs) definitely makes up for it. :)

Maya really is a sweet big sister. She always protecting him or bragging on him. I really hope they stay close as the grow up!

The character selection was awesome! We were almost overwhelmed by the choices!

Sounds like a great day! Peter Pan is one of my favorite rides too. We say Philharmagic for the first time last month and it became another favorite. We had to go back later in the week and see it again. The photos of James with Pooh and Tigger are absolutely adorable!

It's a definite must do for every trip now for us.
Thanks for the compliments. It was a very special moment!

[pinkxray]

Aw... James looks so happy meeting Tigger and Pooh:lovestruc I can't wait to see how CP goes.

Too bad you missed the castle show, but I would be happier being able to meet some of the princes.

Philharmagic is one of my favorites:thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

Aw... James looks so happy meeting Tigger and Pooh:lovestruc I can't wait to see how CP goes.

Too bad you missed the castle show, but I would be happier being able to meet some of the princes.

Philharmagic is one of my favorites:thumbsup2


We reallly lucked out. Last trip, that line was always about 45 minbuteslong wehn we passed it. No thanks! I'm so glad it was much shorter so James could have a magical moment!

We had never seen the castle show, but we had another MK day. I think i was happier with the Princes too. I wish i had thought to go to another showing later that day because maybe we could have jumped in line for those we didn't see this time.

[mtgirl29]

Looks like I am late to the party. So glad I found your TR. Now on to getting caught up!!!:thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

Looks like I am late to the party. So glad I found your TR. Now on to getting caught up!!!:thumbsup2

I'm glad you found it too. Thansk for reading:lovestruc

you aren't too late; i'm on our second day, which is our first park day.

[ctink23]

Maya really is a sweet big sister. She always protecting him or bragging on him. I really hope they stay close as the grow up!

:thumbsup2 Maya reminds me a lot of me with my little brother, and we are still very close as adults!

[Villainess]

The pics of James meeting Tigger & Pooh are priceless! My daughter would DIE if she saw the pics of Aurora with Prince Phillip. Now I have to hope we can hit a 'technical difficulty' show and the characters will come out!

[mtgirl29]

I am finally caught up with your TR. It is sooo good! You lucked out with your awesome location at CBR. We were in South Trinidad in a pirate room. Talk about being miles away from everything. We didn't even buy refillable mugs this year because we were to far away to fill them up. :sad2: We were located closest to the last bus stop so the bus was always packed. Don't get me wrong, I think the resort itself is BEAUTIFUL, but it is way too big. I think I may be spoiled after staying in POFQ last time. It is so small and quaint.
Your kiddos are adorable! I especially love that "Grumpy" got to meet his idols Tigger and Pooh and then he was grumpy no more. :cloud9: Maya's encounters with the characters by the castle were so sweet.
I am in the same boat as you with a having a snorer for a hubby. I ended up bring the white noise maker on this trip. I learned my lesson from our last WDW trip when I hardly got any sleep. It does feel like prison when you are trapped in a small room with a snorer and you have no where to go. At least at home you have the couch. I soooo relate!!!
I really like the way you set up your TR it is so easy to navigate. I cannot wait to read more, I am HOOKED. :goodvibes

[lovethattink]

I've been without internet for the better park of a week. Getting caught up on my reading!

I have seen the castle show so many times, but I don't think I've ever stuck around afterwards. I never realized the characters came out for a meet and greet! Oh when Anakin discovers this he will be thrilled!!! Your daughter looks very happy with Aurora and her prince!

Loving the pics! The food all over your son's face is precious!

[lbuzz52]

I've been without internet for the better park of a week. Getting caught up on my reading!

I have seen the castle show so many times, but I don't think I've ever stuck around afterwards. I never realized the characters came out for a meet and greet! Oh when Anakin discovers this he will be thrilled!!! Your daughter looks very happy with Aurora and her prince!

Loving the pics! The food all over your son's face is precious!

I don't think the characters usually come out after the castle show. I think this was just because there was a hoard of people standing around for a show that wasn't happening. But if you ever hear them start to make that announcement...

James is so silly! I was just happy he kept it off his clothing!


The pics of James meeting Tigger & Pooh are priceless! My daughter would DIE if she saw the pics of Aurora with Prince Phillip. Now I have to hope we can hit a 'technical difficulty' show and the characters will come out!

thanks! I'm greatful for the memories of his 100 acre friends!

I wouldn't mind having technical difficulties once a trip either! I'll be wishing for something to fail for you:rotfl:

:thumbsup2 Maya reminds me a lot of me with my little brother, and we are still very close as adults!

that's very encouraging! My siblings and I could definitely be closer. I'd love for them to stay great friends as adults!

[lbuzz52]

I am finally caught up with your TR. It is sooo good!

Thank you!

You lucked out with your awesome location at CBR.

We did!! I picked that building thinking it was close enough but not the most requested buildings. I figured it had a greater chance of getting the request granted. It ended up being perfect for us!

We were in South Trinidad in a pirate room. Talk about being miles away from everything. We didn't even buy refillable mugs this year because we were to far away to fill them up. :sad2: We were located closest to the last bus stop so the bus was always packed. Don't get me wrong, I think the resort itself is BEAUTIFUL, but it is way too big.

We were too far away for mugs on our last trip. It stinks that the pirate rooms are so far away from the action. I bet they didn't get too many requests for that village before the retheming. It is a really pretty resort. I bet it's even better earlier in the year when the colorful flowers just start blooming.

I think I may be spoiled after staying in POFQ last time. It is so small and quaint.

That is where I want to try next- maybe in one of the princess rooms. Not sure if they will be POFQ or POR though.

Your kiddos are adorable! I especially love that "Grumpy" got to meet his idols Tigger and Pooh and then he was grumpy no more. :cloud9: Maya's encounters with the characters by the castle were so sweet.


Thanks! I'm pretty partial to them myself. We certainly made some great memories this trip!

I am in the same boat as you with a having a snorer for a hubby. I ended up bring the white noise maker on this trip. I learned my lesson from our last WDW trip when I hardly got any sleep. It does feel like prison when you are trapped in a small room with a snorer and you have no where to go. At least at home you have the couch. I soooo relate!!!

I'm sorry!! That's a really good idea. I should try that here and see of it helps.


I really like the way you set up your TR it is so easy to navigate. I cannot wait to read more, I am HOOKED. :goodvibes

thank you. I always get so confused when I am reading trips with dates close to mine. I spend forever trying to figure out what day they are on and if I was in the same place that day. Glad the TOC is helping!

[Lidian]

thank you. I always get so confused when I am reading trips with dates close to mine. I spend forever trying to figure out what day they are on and if I was in the same place that day. Glad the TOC is helping!

Okay, this wasn't directed towards me, but wanted to comment anyway. :lmao:

I'm the exact same way. I start searching for some mention of the date. And I'm guilty of being a poor dater too ... I have the dates in my ToC, but not mentioned in the actual posts, so if someone is following along, they don't see the ToC. :sad2: I just don't want to go back and add in dates now that I had thought about it. I was on day 3 I think when I realized my mistake with the actual posts - but the ToC was setup with dates from the start. Oh well. :confused3 :lmao:

[lbuzz52]

Okay, this wasn't directed towards me, but wanted to comment anyway. :lmao:

I'm the exact same way. I start searching for some mention of the date. And I'm guilty of being a poor dater too ... I have the dates in my ToC, but not mentioned in the actual posts, so if someone is following along, they don't see the ToC. :sad2: I just don't want to go back and add in dates now that I had thought about it. I was on day 3 I think when I realized my mistake with the actual posts - but the ToC was setup with dates from the start. Oh well. :confused3 :lmao:

No, not directed towards you. Just TR's in general. But now that you mention it, my dates are only in the first post of the day. I should go fix that before I get farther in. Not now though. I'm not going to attempt that on my phone!

[Lidian]

No, not directed towards you. Just TR's in general. But now that you mention it, my dates are only in the first post of the day. I should go fix that before I get farther in. Not now though. I'm not going to attempt that on my phone!

I'm too lazy to fix. :lmao:

[lbuzz52]

I'm too lazy to fix. :lmao:

That's exactly why I'm going to do it. That's five minutes I don't have to spend cleaning:rotfl:

[SimmerBaggins]

This is a great story -- makes me remember my daughter's first trip to WDW! Can't wait to get to the haircut!! :banana:

[lbuzz52]

This is a great story -- makes me remember my daughter's first trip to WDW! Can't wait to get to the haircut!! :banana:

Welcome! Thanks for reading! It's such a fun place for the little ones, isn't it! The haircut is soon. It was a great experience!

[lbuzz52]

Wednesday, May 11 cont.

When we last left off, James met his favorite bear, Maya met a prince, and we were sweating our way through some fantasyland rides.
____________________________

Sidenote: I knew that this update was coming up, and therefore i had the theme song in my head the entire weekend. Last night i finally grew tired of it. I decided maybe if i listened to it, i could get it out. So instead of a bedtime story, we all watched the parade video on youtube. James was waiving at the video:rotfl: I announced the end and James got MAD. i had no idea he even knew the word parade, but he did, and he let me know. "mo pade, mo pade" over and over. :love:


We decided it was time to find a spot for Celebrate. Maya loves this parade and loves to get attention from the characters. We decided to head to Frontierland so we could find some shade and still be front row. We settled for a spot right in front of the store next to the shooting gallery. We parked the strollers on the rope and sat on the steps in the shade. We were so greatful for the shade because the hear was intense. I was really wishing that i owned a hat.

We had about 30 minutes until the parade came our way. Chris went to get Big Thunder fastpasses but was gone for a while. When he came back he had a little slice of heaven with him.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/purchases%20and%20bonus%20bday/IMG_3370-1.jpg
Minnie's Chocolate Chip Supreme cookie!!


Actually, he brought two. But as we opened the wrapper, the first one jumped out and on to the ground. That wasn't a big deal though, because they are large enough to split between the 4 of us. And it was every bit as good as i remembered. :lovestruc

We passed the rest of the time taking turns between holding our spot and getting some shade. It was a great place to sit because there are steps and a nice open air conditioned door way behind you.

My pictures are nothing out of the ordinary, but I'm going to share anyway.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0355.jpg
is it really coming daddy?

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0357.jpg
it is, it is!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0358.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0359.jpg
Donald


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0360.jpg
Woody & Jessie


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0361.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0362.jpg
Minnie & Mickey


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0364.jpg
Jiminy and Pinocchio


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0365.jpg
Snow White, her Prince, and Dopey


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0367.jpg
Aladdin


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0368.jpg
Hook, Smee, Tweedles, Queen of Hearts, White Rabbit


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0370.jpg
Alice, Mad Hatter (and a peek of Peter Pan)


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0372.jpg
Cindy, Prince Charming, Fairy Godmother


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0373.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0375.jpg
Ariel and my happy babies


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0376.jpg
The beast


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0377.jpg
You can barely see Tiana and Naveen but i like this float anyway.


We got quite a bit of attention during the parade. And just like all important moments, I just kept missing it with my camera. I try and just get the side of the costume as they are walking away! They always visit when i am just taking a picture elsewhere!

Goofy high fived Maya; Woody high fived James; Gepetto high fived them both.

Each got a hello from a tweedle.

Snow white pointed at Maya from her float and said I love that you are wearing my shirt!

Perla said hello to James and then Suzy played peekaboo. I sort of caught this one, but from an odd angle.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0371.jpg
Suzy & James


When the parade was over, it was time to head up front for our appointment at Harmony.

[lbuzz52]

continued due to picture count


On the way to Harmony, we stopped next to the Chapeau to grab fastpasses for Town Square Theater. There were CMs waiting there, and they asked us who we were getting our passes for. We said Mickey. The CM then said,

"did you know you can have 2 sets at once-either Mickey and the princesses or one here and one for a ride?".

These fastpasses were started just a couple weeks before our trip. When I looked into it, I had read that the character fastpasses were tied to the regular fastpasses. You could have one or the other. So this was interesting info!

edit: We immediately tested it by grabbing a set of fastpasses for the princesses too.

I had to find a new pocket for our FP, we had 5 sets I think at this point

We crossed main street and found another CM. This one was in front of the firestation with a hula hoop. Maya was very interested. We had a few minutes still so she went to try her skills.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0380.jpg


At first she was not so efficient,


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0382.jpg


but she quickly learned to put her hips in it.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0383.jpg


James gave it a go too.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0381.jpg


Then Chris helped him out.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0384.jpg


We called James to take a picture in front of the Barbershop. But it was much more fun running.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0385.jpg


Eventually he decided to comply.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0387.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0388.jpg


It started to sprinkle so we went ahead to the doorway.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0379.jpg


There were two people getting cut and what looked to be a short line. All but one of the others were with those getting cut. When one of the barbers finished I told her we were there for our appointment. She montioned us over to the chair.



Next: James' first haircut!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:rotfl: Ariel looks like she is about to fall over in that one parade photo.

[Chaitali]

All the attention during the parade sounds amazing :) I can see why the kids love it!

[lbuzz52]

:rotfl: Ariel looks like she is about to fall over in that one parade photo.


Yeah, she looks like she started a bit early:lmao::lmao: I thought about leaving that one out but it was the only one i had that showed Maya during the parade.

I spent a lot of time this trip thinking about how much i would not enjoy being a character this trip. I know you remember how hot it was that week; i can't imagine adding all the wigs/ hose/ heavy dresses or fur suits, even if only for 15 or 30 minutes.

All the attention during the parade sounds amazing :) I can see why the kids love it!

It makes for a completely different experience for them. It also gives me something to use when the kids get sad they aren't picked at something else, like a Crush type show. I point out all the attention they got here:thumbsup2

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Yeah, she looks like she started a bit early:lmao::lmao: I thought about leaving that one out but it was the only one i had that showed Maya during the parade.

I spent a lot of time this trip thinking about how much i would not enjoy being a character this trip. I know you remember how hot it was that week; i can't imagine adding all the wigs/ hose/ heavy dresses or fur suits, even if only for 15 or 30 minutes.


I often wonder if they have ice packs in those suits or little fans. :laughing:

[Marshay]

Nice to see the parade pictures again! It's so cool how the characters will interact and how much enjoyment that brings our kids!

So did you try to get another FP while still in the window of your Town Square FP?

I'm curious, too. Prior to our trip, the Dissers said you couldn't do both. but then I stopped following the threads.

I wonder if they really did change it?

[lbuzz52]

I often wonder if they have ice packs in those suits or little fans. :laughing:

that's a good thought. I'd think they have to have something, otherwise you'd hear of heat strokes!


Nice to see the parade pictures again! It's so cool how the characters will interact and how much enjoyment that brings our kids!

So did you try to get another FP while still in the window of your Town Square FP?

I'm curious, too. Prior to our trip, the Dissers said you couldn't do both. but then I stopped following the threads.

I wonder if they really did change it?

The interactions are really cool! It brings a whole new level to the parade. Did you guys have good luck there?

I can't believe i left out that pertinent information. We immediately got a fastpass for the princesses too. I never got a chance to test it with a ride fastpass. I think all the ones we had from earlier had "opened" by that point. I'll see if i took pictures.

[ctink23]

Yay for the parade! I love that Snow White loved Maya's shirt and that your kids were visited by many characters!

Good to know about the fastpasses. I wonder if this is still true or if they have tied the character meet and greet fastpasses to the whole system yet.

Excited to hear about James' haircut!

[pinkxray]

I am glad you shared your parade pictures. We never seem to make it to the parades so I love see the pictures.

I am still waiting for the after haircut picture. I can't wait to see how he looks, he looks so hot with all that extra hair. popcorn::

[lbuzz52]

Yay for the parade! I love that Snow White loved Maya's shirt and that your kids were visited by many characters!

Good to know about the fastpasses. I wonder if this is still true or if they have tied the character meet and greet fastpasses to the whole system yet.

Excited to hear about James' haircut!

Before i left i heard that they were tied to the regular fastpasses, so i was surprised with this. i have not come across many mentions of using the fastpasses in trip reports so i wish i knew.

My kids love parades, and Disney really makes them extra fun!

I am glad you shared your parade pictures. We never seem to make it to the parades so I love see the pictures.

I am still waiting for the after haircut picture. I can't wait to see how he looks, he looks so hot with all that extra hair. popcorn::


on our first trip, i had every intention of skipping the parade but my dad suggested it on our first afternoon. after that there was no way maya would let me skip, and james is becoming the same way.

very soon on the hair update, i promise!

[donnaf516]

All caught up. Can't wait to read more : )

[lbuzz52]

:welcome:
thanks for reading.
i hope to have more for you very soon

All caught up. Can't wait to read more : )

[lbuzz52]

okay, not sure what i'm doing here. i can't get my thread title to update. i've done it before obviously, so either its just not working or i've gone nuts!!! how do you do it?

[AKL LOVER]

:rotfl: Ariel looks like she is about to fall over in that one parade photo.

:lmao: I thought the exact same thing when I saw that pic!


okay, not sure what i'm doing here. i can't get my thread title to update. i've done it before obviously, so either its just not working or i've gone nuts!!! how do you do it?

You have to go to your first post, click to edit it and then you have to click on advanced options in the bottom right corner of the edit box. That will allow you to update your thread title.



I am also on the edge of my seat with anticipation to see James' new haircut! Can't wait. :yay:

[lbuzz52]

:lmao: I thought the exact same thing when I saw that pic!




You have to go to your first post, click to edit it and then you have to click on advanced options in the bottom right corner of the edit box. That will allow you to update your thread title.



I am also on the edge of my seat with anticipation to see James' new haircut! Can't wait. :yay:

I don't know what Ariel was doing. Or had been doing :rotfl:

I pretty sure that's what I've been doing but I'm going to check again.

Edit: I've been going to the first post, clicking edit, then go advanced. Then I changed the title. If I open the thread, the first post says updated 6/20- but the thread itself says updated 6/16

[lbuzz52]

who hoo! i updated the title like 8 more times and it finally worked this morning!!
working on an update now:cheer2:

[MagicalWorldMommy]

Hey Lauren, it's Kelli! What a great trip report. I love seeing your babies, they look EXACTLY like you, especially Maya! I am all caught up and looking forward to James's first haircut. Maybe I can hold out to get Grant's first haircut there too, what a great memory to have!!

[PirateKate]

That looks like a fun parade. I love it when the characters interact with my kids during a parade. It makes the whole experience much more magical.

Hula hooping looks like fun, too. I hope the wait for James' haircut isn't too long.

[lbuzz52]

Hey Lauren, it's Kelli! What a great trip report. I love seeing your babies, they look EXACTLY like you, especially Maya! I am all caught up and looking forward to James's first haircut. Maybe I can hold out to get Grant's first haircut there too, what a great memory to have!!

:welcome:

I'm so glad you stopped by!

How old will Grant be if you don't go in November? I wanted to do James' on our first trip when he was 9 months, but I was vetoed due to lack of hair. You should plan it!

My mom pulled out some pictures of me as a kid a couple weeks ago, and Maya kept guessing that they were James or her. It's funny though because when they were babies they were the splitting image of Chris.

That looks like a fun parade. I love it when the characters interact with my kids during a parade. It makes the whole experience much more magical.

Hula hooping looks like fun, too. I hope the wait for James' haircut isn't too long.

It's funny, at home, Maya has no interest in hula hooping. But at Disney she can't pass one up!

We always seem to be so lucky with the parades!

[mtgirl29]

I hate when that happens, dropping a scrumptious cookie on the ground like that.... I am glad that you had another, though! :goodvibes
I am so happy that the kiddos had a wonderful interaction with the characters from the parade. Your photos were wonderful! :thumbsup2
It looks like your darling daughter was doing great with the hoola hoop. I did so well with hoola hooping myself when I was younger. Now that I have bigger hips, wouldn't you think I would be more proficient? Not so, I cannot hoola hoop for my life these days.....uggghh!
Cannot wait to see your DS barbershop adventures and haircut!!!!

[lbuzz52]

Third time's the charm! Thankfully i write elsewhere and then just add the pictures on here. Photobucket has locked my computer twice this afternoon.


Wed, May 11 cont.

When we last left off, we had Celebrated, and then picked up fastpasses for both Mickey & the Princesses. We had just checked for our appointment at Harmony Barber Shop.

I set James in the chair and sat on a window seat in front of him so I could take a few pictures. Chris stood next to him. I was immediately given a look of "what have you just gotten me into Mom".

Marylou started the customary sticker shower. That grabbed his attention for all of 12 seconds.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0390.jpg


He then wanted to escape.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0391.jpg


But she was quick to bring out her Spinny Minnie. He was then quite captivated.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0393.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0394.jpg


James and Marylou bonded over Minnie.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0397.jpg


She spritzed his hair with a water bottle, and asked me what I wanted to do. I told her I wanted it trimmed a little but was hoping it would still hold it's curls. I chickened!

Before James was born, I made Chris give me full reign of James' hair until he was three. If he had his way, he would just shave it. Not that I have anything against shaved heads; it's just that I know a shaved head is easy. And they always look interesting when growing back. So I'm just afraid that once we shave it, he will have it cut that way for years and years. I still have the better part of a year before he's three, so I don't have to negotiate yet! And I don't want to lose that baby boy look yet!

Instead of the neat, short look i had planned on, I told her just to trim it to a respectable length. And I asked that she keep it shorter around the ears. I didn't mention anything about the front. Yep, I had no idea what I was doing. I've never had to get a little boy's hair cut before. :confused3

Minnie kept James very entertained; i'm not sure he even realized what was going on. But just in case, she moved quickly.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0398.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0399.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0400.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0401.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0402.jpg


After a couple minutes she was finished. She pulled out his gift- a pair of Mickey ears that say "first haircut". And he let's her place them on his head. She seemed shocked that he would let her put them on. I was just shocked they fit on his head :rotfl2:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0403.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN1963.jpg


Maya looked a little left out at that point but before I knew it she was covered in pixie dust!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0404.jpg


James wasn't much in the mood for showing off his new "do".


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0406.jpg


Those of you with curly or wavy hair know that brushing never helps the curls. So at this point i wasn't too sure what it would look like. By the time he had showered, his hair did its own natural thing and i really liked it!

Here are a couple pictures to better show you what it looks like.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN2192-1.jpg
side/ back view. it is a bit wavy, and really curls up on hot and humid days. next time i'll be more vocal about trimming it a bit shorter around the ears.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN1876-1.jpg
front length view after about 3 weeks.

or you can look at the turtle picture from the introductions on page 1


Marylou placed some of the hair in tissue paper and sealed it up with a Mickey sticker. She also signed us a certificate stating that James' first hair cut was in the Magic Kingdom.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN2163.jpg


I charged the $18 to the room, gave her a cash tip, and we were done in about 15 minutes total time. Like I said, I'm new to boy haircuts, so next time I take him for a cut I'll know to tell them not as short in the front. But that was my fault.

My only complaint is that there is no photopass photographer here. Otherwise, I will rate this experience an A+! I'm so glad that I was patient and held off on his long overdue haircut so he could have this memory!






And that hair Marilyn wrapped up for us:rolleyes1





Wish I knew where it was! Chris says that he remembers me pulling it out of the bag when we got back to the room and putting it up for safekeeping:rotfl: IF I did i have no idea where. i have checked every pocket, every nook and cranny of every bag. i'm thinking in my hasty packing for departure i was pulling everything out of the shopping bags to stuff the suitcases, and may have mistaken it for trash?

I still have a couple Mickey stickers. I'm just going to get his hair cut again within the next couple of weeks and wrap a few pieces of that up with the sticker. I would wait until our next trip to get authentic MK hair, but i'm afraid that it may start darkening by then. I just find it ironic that i refused to cheat and trim it ahead of time, even though it was so badly needed, and now here i am having to cheat anyway:rotfl::lmao:

[mtgirl29]

What an adorable haircut on a handsome lil' boy! I love those curls!!!! It is great that the stylists have things to keep the little ones entertained and distracted while they are getting their first haircut.
Too bad about you losing the clippings. :sad2: That is so ironic, though, that you didn't want to cheat on getting his hair cut before his visit to Disney and then you end up losing the original and have to recreate. That sounds just like my luck, as well.
Thanks for sharing and loved all the pics!!! :goodvibes

[SimmerBaggins]

Awesome -- I was really beginning to worry when I saw the "Daddy, get me outta here" pic!! Good thing she had that toy.

That is a super-special memory, no matter what the haircut looks like...good for you for waiting it out and getting it. :thumbsup2 Hope you find the hair...

[DisneyMomma09]

I'm glad you had a good First Haircut experience! I'm sorry you misplaced his hair though! You seem much more level headed about it than I would probably be, though! I love James's curles! I can't believe your husband would want to shave them all off!

[lbuzz52]

I hate when that happens, dropping a scrumptious cookie on the ground like that.... I am glad that you had another, though! :goodvibes
I am so happy that the kiddos had a wonderful interaction with the characters from the parade. Your photos were wonderful! :thumbsup2
It looks like your darling daughter was doing great with the hoola hoop. I did so well with hoola hooping myself when I was younger. Now that I have bigger hips, wouldn't you think I would be more proficient? Not so, I cannot hoola hoop for my life these days.....uggghh!
Cannot wait to see your DS barbershop adventures and haircut!!!!

it's probably good we dropped it. Otherwise I might have been tempted to eat the whole thing myself. They are THAT good!
I never was a hula hooper. Let's just say it's good I don't do much dancing in public! I'm with you- I would think larger hips would have an advantage.

Random, but this made me think of it. Did you ever use a pogo ball?
What an adorable haircut on a handsome lil' boy! I love those curls!!!! It is great that the stylists have things to keep the little ones entertained and distracted while they are getting their first haircut.
Too bad about you losing the clippings. :sad2: That is so ironic, though, that you didn't want to cheat on getting his hair cut before his visit to Disney and then you end up losing the original and have to recreate. That sounds just like my luck, as well.
Thanks for sharing and loved all the pics!!! :goodvibes

thanks for the compliments! I'm pretty partial to those curls too!
At first I was mad but now i think it's pretty funny!

I'm glad you like the pictures! I took less as the week went on. I just felt it was important to give James his own post for his special moment.

Awesome -- I was really beginning to worry when I saw the "Daddy, get me outta here" pic!! Good thing she had that toy.

That is a super-special memory, no matter what the haircut looks like...good for you for waiting it out and getting it. :thumbsup2 Hope you find the hair...

he had me nervous for a moment but ended up doing really well. The barber was pretty good with little ones!

I really like the haircut and think I will like it even better next time now that I know a little more about boy cuts!

I'm really glad we waited!

[Moira222]

How much fun for the technical difficulties changing the show. I would have been thrilled to see all the Royals!!!

Oh I am just picturing James taking off for Pooh Bear and Tigger:lovestruc

James' haircut is cute! and it looks like he still has curls after the cut!

[lbuzz52]

I'm glad you had a good First Haircut experience! I'm sorry you misplaced his hair though! You seem much more level headed about it than I would probably be, though! I love James's curles! I can't believe your husband would want to shave them all off!

You know how the second child always gets you behind- you never finish the baby book etc, its just one of those things to me. My theory is that if i do new things with him that Maya didn't experience he won't stress over the ones i messed up or neglected.

Chris finds shaved heads easy. if i wasn't around i'm sure he'd "do" Maya's hair by throwing a baseball cap on. :rotfl2:

How much fun for the technical difficulties changing the show. I would have been thrilled to see all the Royals!!!

Oh I am just picturing James taking off for Pooh Bear and Tigger:lovestruc

James' haircut is cute! and it looks like he still has curls after the cut!

It was so nice to have the unexpected "Royals"!

James was so cute with Pooh Bear that day. One of my favorite moments of the trip.

It is still curling! wavy on the top, curly at the bottom! Maya is jealous!

[MagicalWorldMommy]

[QUOTE=lbuzz52;41575221]:welcome:

I'm so glad you stopped by!

How old will Grant be if you don't go in November? I wanted to do James' on our first trip when he was 9 months, but I was vetoed due to lack of hair. You should plan it!

My mom pulled out some pictures of me as a kid a couple weeks ago, and Maya kept guessing that they were James or her. It's funny though because when they were babies they were the splitting image of Chris.



Well, we are thinking of either next spring or fall, so either about 10 months or about 18 months. If Grant's hair grows like Colson's did, then we may have to put it in a ponytail if we tried waiting until the fall! :rotfl2: Fingers are crossed for the spring, but we will see how everything pans out. When is ya'lls next trip??

Seriously, Maya is your mini me, I love it! Colson came out looking like Shane, and now he looks so much like me (besides being a blondie) Grant is Shane's mini me now, but we will see if that changes like Colson.

So, I just finished reading your other trip report, you are really a great writer! How do you remember all of the details? I would love to do a TR, but I am not sure that I have the patience. :rolleyes:

Looking forward to the next update!! popcorn::

[MagicalWorldMommy]

PS---those cookies, I am still thinking about those dang cookies, and it has been over a year since we were there! You know that you can order them online, right? It is kind of expensive, but I considered it many times while I was pregnant!!

[lynlink]

Such a cute picture of the kids and Chris in front of the barber shop! I think James' haircut is cute! It's hard to cut boys hair. I still have issues getting Ayden's cut.
Such a great memory for you and James though! Maybe his lock of hair with turn up somewhere!
Can't wait to read more!

[lbuzz52]

well, we are thinking of either next spring or fall, so either about 10 months or about 18 months. If grant's hair grows like colson's did, then we may have to put it in a ponytail if we tried waiting until the fall! :rotfl2: Fingers are crossed for the spring, but we will see how everything pans out. When is ya'lls next trip??

Seriously, maya is your mini me, i love it! Colson came out looking like shane, and now he looks so much like me (besides being a blondie) grant is shane's mini me now, but we will see if that changes like colson.

So, i just finished reading your other trip report, you are really a great writer! How do you remember all of the details? I would love to do a tr, but i am not sure that i have the patience. :rolleyes:

Looking forward to the next update!! Popcorn::

James had no hair on our first trip. Does Colson have any curls to his hair? Do you think Grant will? if so, it will help hide the mullet length if you do have to wait:lmao:

I'm going to say our next trip will be Oct 2013. I'm going to do my best to come up with a reason to move it up, but that is it for now. I loved halloween time, although i'd like to see the Christmas decorations too.

my phone has a notes section. when I'm in the parks, i jot down rides/ waits/ whatever i remember. its a good way to pass some time waiting in lines. later, i go back and add a bit more detail to it. i really enjoy writing the trip reports because 1) i never seem to get around to journaling or scrapbooking, so i just print it out for us and 2) my dh doesn't want to hear any more about it and i want to discuss with others who have the same love for it. it is a bit time consuming but i think its worth it. thanks for reading the old one too!

ps---those cookies, i am still thinking about those dang cookies, and it has been over a year since we were there! You know that you can order them online, right? It is kind of expensive, but i considered it many times while i was pregnant!!

yeah, i've seen them! everytime i buy something on disneystore i put them in my cart, and then talk myself out of them. i figure if i have them at home, then they wont be as special at the parks. but if we ever have another baby, then all bets are off:thumbsup2

such a cute picture of the kids and chris in front of the barber shop! I think james' haircut is cute! It's hard to cut boys hair. I still have issues getting ayden's cut.
Such a great memory for you and james though! Maybe his lock of hair with turn up somewhere!
Can't wait to read more!

i think Ayden's hair is cute! it really suits him! my sister has trouble wiht my nephew's also. it always ends up crooked or too short in some place. I dont hear about that so much with girls- maybe becuase they have barrettes and things to hide it?

let me know if you need me to sneak you a picture of anything before you have to set your ADR's:goodvibes

[DisneyMomma09]

You know how the second child always gets you behind- you never finish the baby book etc, its just one of those things to me. My theory is that if i do new things with him that Maya didn't experience he won't stress over the ones i messed up or neglected.

Chris finds shaved heads easy. if i wasn't around i'm sure he'd "do" Maya's hair by throwing a baseball cap on. :rotfl2:





I like your theory! I will remember it for number 2!

Ahhh...the daddy hair-do...I remember them well! My dad's favorite was a headband, which was used to keep all the hair out of my face, but also pushed my short bangs back so then they would stick straight up! :rotfl:

[mtgirl29]

Random, but this made me think of it. Did you ever use a pogo ball?

:rotfl2: Yes, I did as a child, but creates a pretty scary :scared1: image of me doing as an adult. :laughing:
How about you??? Is that what you do on a Saturday night? :lmao:

[lbuzz52]

I like your theory! I will remember it for number 2!

Ahhh...the daddy hair-do...I remember them well! My dad's favorite was a headband, which was used to keep all the hair out of my face, but also pushed my short bangs back so then they would stick straight up! :rotfl:

:rotfl2:

my mom worked nights, and my dad always wanted to help at the wrong time. i remember one time he wanted to make my hair all poofy. so of course, by lunchtime, it was extra poofy on one side and flat against my head on the other. of course it was yearbook picture day. i had a conversation about this picture with a friend a couple months ago and she said, oh, i remember that picture:scared1:

:rotfl2: Yes, I did as a child, but creates a pretty scary :scared1: image of me doing as an adult. :laughing:
How about you??? Is that what you do on a Saturday night? :lmao:

oh no, i wouldn't dream of attempting that now. i personally think at this age and shape that would be VERY painful! your mention of hula skills in the past made me think of my pogo ball skills in the past. i used to jump rope while on the pogo ball. now i'm pretty sure i'd trip myself doing either.

on a good Saturday night i rent a movie to watch while i'm doing laundry. what can i say. i'm a party animal :lmao:

[lbuzz52]

Tues May 11 cont.

When we last left off, James had just finished his first hair cut at Harmony Barber shop.


We headed back to the theater to see that Mickey had only a five minute wait! Oh well, I guess we will save those fastpasses for later. Because of the lack of line, we didn't get a chance to watch the interactive posters. I did take this walking picture though.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0407.jpg


We reach the end of the ropes and are behind one other family. Quickly, we are shuttled into a room. Chris asks what the random noise is and I didn't even have to look up to answer. "it's the rabbit chomping on the carrot". Thanks DIS!



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0412.jpg
"I see them!"


Soon it is our turn. James walks right up and hugs Mickey!



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0416.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0418.jpg


I was having trouble with my camera settings in here. I have a few on photopass, but its not here yet.

He didn't hand him his book because we left them in the strollers! And yes, if you are keeping track, this is the second time we had done this in one day :scared1: Maya was upset about this but we told her we could come back later with the fastpasses if she wanted.

We finish our turn and the photographer hands me back my photopass card. Just as we are exchanging James turns around and gives Minnie a kiss. Ugghh, I missed it again!

We walk through the dump shop on our way out. For Mothers Day, I had asked that I pick out a gift from Disney. I saw what I wanted. Any guesses?

















It was a backscratcher! It may not sound like a great gift to most but for me it is perfect! I'm always in need of a backscratcher. In fact, for years, I've said that one day, I was going to invent one that you can keep in your pocket. (I've seen those at a few stores lately, so I guess I'm too slow.) That is how often I need one! So for $5.96, this momma was happy!:love:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN1811.jpg


I have to apologize now. I neglected to take any pictures of our purchases as we bought them. I instead took quick shots on the top of my suitcase as we were unpacking.



We went out of the shop and grabbed our autograph books before heading back in to see the princesses. The standby was all of 10 minutes. I can't remember if they took our fastpasses but if they did it maybe put us 4 families ahead.

Up first was Cinderella. While she had a nice conversation with Maya, James found a bench to climb on.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0419.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0421.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0423.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0424.jpg


Then there was Belle. This was our first time meeting her in her yellow dress! It's so pretty! She and James talked for a while.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0426.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0427.jpg
yo, don’t leave me out

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0431.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0434.jpg


Finally, there was Aurora.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0435.jpg


James bypassed her and went straight to the bench.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0437.jpg


Maya had quite the conversation with her. I couldn't hear any of it, but later when I asked her what they talked about she didn't remember.


Once Maya was done and we were leaving James then decided he wanted to visit too!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0438.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0440.jpg


We had not met the princesses in their home in Toontown on our last trip. I have to say I really love the setup!

We had completed most everything we had planned for the day and were a couple hours ahead of schedule. I had assumed we would take much longer with the haircut and Town Square portion. We decided to head over to


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0457.jpg


We were still hot and in need of a snack. On the way, we passed Ariel with Eric. Somehow, Maya didn't see them. Bad parents that we are, we didnt point them out because of the long line!

I suggested Dole Whip, but no one was interested. So we went to the little place next to Aladdin's carpet- Sunshine Tree Terrace. It was still so very hot! I knew exactly what I wanted- slushies! The perfect snack on a day like this! I chose raspberry lemonade, and Chris picked orange. We also picked up a couple complimentary waters.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0443.jpg

Maya and James went for soft serve ice cream. We tried to talk them into the slushies but there was no reasoning with them. I bet you can guess how this is going to turn out when it's 96 degrees :rotfl:

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0442.jpg


Maya ate so quickly she gave herself an ice cream headache lol. James and Chris ended up trading.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0441.jpg


cont. next post

[lbuzz52]

cont.

When the ice cream was finished we parked the strollers and got in line for Aladdins Magic Carpet's. The wait was only 5 minutes, much shorter than the similar Dumbo!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0455.jpg


We saw plenty of the school groups and brazilian groups- but luckily they always seemed to be coming from where we were going next.


I took some random pictures in flight.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0447.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0444.jpg
Note to self- look before you take pictures.



This ride also made James a bit nervous. When the carpet would go up and down, he would kick his legs around and hold tight.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0450.jpg



What should we do next?

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0453.jpg


We hopped in the short line. While we were waiting, Chris and I talked about how we were going to help Maya get on the boat no matter what this time. If we had a repeat of last trip, then we would never show our faces in the Jungle again.

Here's what happened last time...

Now we were ready to use our Jungle Cruise fast passes. It was there that I had one of those “please hide me” mommy moments. I’m not sure if you all remember, but when I first started this report, I said that Maya was independent.


So we walked on Jungle using our fastpasses. We were loading our boat and Maya needed help getting on. She could have used the CM’s hand for help. She could have used Nonni’s hand for help. There is even a bar to use to hold on to for support. But what does she pick????

just what did Maya use to help herself on the boat????

She grabs the cm’s crotch. OH MY GOODNESS.

And if that wasn’t bad enough… the skipper notices and says “I’m not going to lie, that’s freaky” .

OVER THE CB RADIO.

Yep, I didn’t even notice the cheesy jokes. I was too busy trying to blend into the seat.




I'm pleased to say that there were no dirty deeds in this journey. Unless you count some adult jokes from the skipper.


After another potty break, It was time to visit possibly my favorite ride from childhood.



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0458.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0459.jpg


We really just must have hit the Speedway at the wront time this morning, because the rest of our wait times have been phenominal.


I love the detailing in POTC. James paid quite a bit of attention and made sure to say "hi Sparwo" every time he saw him.

Chris had been patiently waiting to visit his favorite land all day, so next we made out way to Frontierland. On the way, we passed by Woody and Jessie with a massive line. Maya requested a meeting, but we declined, stating we would catch them later in the week. (we all know what that means.)

First up- Big Thunder. Maya and I rode first using our fastpasses. This was the first rollercoaster Maya ever rode, and at 4 she liked it better than the Barnstormer. We forgot to do the baby swap though! So we grabbed one new fastpass for later.

We moved on to Splash- only to see it was temporarily down. The CM's weren't saying how long it would be down, only that it would reopen. We went ahead and asked for our baby swap while we were all there, so we wouldn't forget again.

We contemplated what to do next. Pooh and Splash were all we really wanted to acomplish and it was really to hot still to do a lot of extra backtracking. I told Chris he wasn't going to like what made the most sense...

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I love the backdrops for the princesses, much nicer than the ugly curtains they had at Toontown, I can't wait to see what the Royal Greeting Hall will look like when it is completed in the new Fantasyland. :thumbsup2

The picture of James with Aurora is adorable. :goodvibes

[mtgirl29]

oh no, i wouldn't dream of attempting that now. i personally think at this age and shape that would be VERY painful! your mention of hula skills in the past made me think of my pogo ball skills in the past. i used to jump rope while on the pogo ball. now i'm pretty sure i'd trip myself doing either.

on a good Saturday night i rent a movie to watch while i'm doing laundry. what can i say. i'm a party animal :lmao:

:rotfl2::lmao::rotfl2: WOW! Impressive! Jump roping and pogoball...at the same time? Now that takes some balance and skill! :worship:
LOL! I used to be able to do pogoball and jump rope, but separately. If I could bring myself to do again, it might help shape me up, but who has time when you are a mom and have so much to do and if you do injury yourself who is going to do all the housework?
I am the same kind of party animal as you....Netflix is our wild Saturday night and occasionally, a few adult beverages after the kiddos are in bed. I am a WILD woman! :laughing:
I see you made a new installment on your thread....CANNOT WAIT TO READ! :yay:

[lbuzz52]

:rotfl2::lmao::rotfl2: WOW! Impressive! Jump roping and pogoball...at the same time? Now that takes some balance and skill! :worship:
LOL! I used to be able to do pogoball and jump rope, but separately. If I could bring myself to do again, it might help shape me up, but who has time when you are a mom and have so much to do and if you do injury yourself who is going to do all the housework?
I am the same kind of party animal as you....Netflix is our wild Saturday night and occasionally, a few adult beverages after the kiddos are in bed. I am a WILD woman! :laughing:
I see you made a new installment on your thread....CANNOT WAIT TO READ! :yay:


I could definitely use a shape-up too, but i'll have to choose something else. If i tried that now, i may have to use some duct tape before the sports bra. that just sounds painful now:rotfl2:

The world better watch out if we are ever in the same place at the same time. it might just get waaayyy to crazy to handle:lmao:


I love the backdrops for the princesses, much nicer than the ugly curtains they had at Toontown, I can't wait to see what the Royal Greeting Hall will look like when it is completed in the new Fantasyland. :thumbsup2

The picture of James with Aurora is adorable. :goodvibes

I like them too. Very storybook to me.

I can't wait for the new area. I really think they should include Rapunzel too- her line is nuts.

James surprised us- we didn't think he would want much to do with the Princesses but he was Maya's follower that afternoon. thanks for the compliments!

[ctink23]

I have been busy and missed a bunch of updates!

What a great first haircut! I love that they gave him a set of ears and a certificate! Definitely a good choice to wait and do the first haircut there!

And it looks like James and Maya had a great time with Mickey, Minnie, and the Princesses! :)

[mtgirl29]

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0443.jpg

Is it just me, or does anyone else see the creepy face in the raspberry lemonade slushy?!?!.....I may be losing my mind. :rolleyes1

Your TR is wonderful, yet again! Wow! The Mickey and Minnie pics were so great! Maybe the PP pics caught the kiss with Minnie. I love the kiddos pics with the princess! ADORABLE! I love :love: how intently James is looking at Aurora.

I, also, like the Pixie Dust in DD's hair.....so cute!

My DD was fascinated with the back scratcher. She would pick it up each time we saw it in the gift shop.

OH NO! I am sorry to hear about DD grabbing the CM to steady herself. I cannot believe the Cpt. had to draw attention to the situation....uggghhh! Even though it was an embarrassing situation at the time, it sure does make for a very funny memory that will last a life time.....:rotfl2:

So cute how your DS would say hi to Jack Sparrow each time he saw him on PoC.

As for the duct tape under the sports bra.....I am in the same boat. I was blessed up top and would more than likely get a black eye if I didn't reign them in.....:lmao:

[saffron1000]

We were there the same week just a few rooms down from you!:)

[lovethattink]

I have a bit of catching up to do. I read this page, and my family is wondering what I'm laughing about.

Looks like you had very nice wait times!

I went to the Mickey/Minnie greet once, but didn't notice the sounds of carrot eating. Will have to pay next time!

That is so cute that James was more interested in the benches than the princesses. He looks quite unsure of himself on the magic carpet. Your daughter looks like she really enjoyed the meet and greets!

[SimmerBaggins]

I just love James' face when talking to the princesses!! It's truly priceless...I'd probably blow one of them up and frame it -- maybe in black & white!

Great story about the Jungle cruise...one of the things you can do when she becomes a teenager (like mine) is teasingly warn: please don't do like you did back then...! :lmao: You'll finally get your payback for the embarrassment! ;)

This is such a cute TR!! :thumbsup2

[Lidian]

I totally love James new do! :cloud9: Too bad there wasn't a PP guy there to help you capture pictures. :(

Glad to hear you had an embarrassing-free Jungle Cruise. :lmao::rotfl2:

Love your pictures with the characters! I totally should have gotten me a backscratcher too. :rolleyes:

The slushies looked good! TK, I totally see the creepy face. :lmao: Honestly, I know I'll get flamed for saying this, but we didn't care for the Dole Whips, so I personally don't think you was missing out on them. Slushies over DW's in my book. :thumbsup2

And I remember the days of the pogo balls ... I don't recall if we ever skipped rope on them or not ... I do recall our first experience ... It was Christmas Day... the front porch was iced over, but we tried it anyway. :lmao:

[Queila]

Great update! :thumbsup2

The pictures with Mickey, Minnie and the princesses are adorable. Don't feel bad about not pointing Ariel to your daughter. I feel that I waisted more time waiting for characters this time that at any ride.

Your Jungle Cruise incident is too funny. :rotfl2: Glad you manages to keep it clean this time. ;)

Those slushies look amazing. I had a regular lemonade at DHS but this razz berry combination sounds so yummy!

That is great that your daughter can go in some roller coasters already. I cannot wait for my daughter to be tall enough to ride Big Thuner Mountain and Splash Mountain. :)

Can't wait to read more.

Q

[BellaBaby]

Found your TR today and just finished reading all of it--minus comments of course! OK, I read a few...

Anyway, seems like you got a TON accomplished that first day!! Lovin' it so far!:goodvibes

Your DD reminds me of my DD7, she talks to everyone and it is non stop!!;)

Your DS looks super cute with the haircut!:thumbsup2

It's funny, I bought my DH some tshirts from Kohl's before we went 1 year and kept seeing them on men around the park too!

OMG--what an embarrassing moment from your '09 trip on the Jungle Cruise! But hopefully you can laugh about it now--we never know what our little rugrats will do next sometimes!!:scared1:

Well, that's all I can think of for now, should've written my comments down...

Looking forward to more of your TR!!:woohoo:

[lbuzz52]

I have been busy and missed a bunch of updates!

What a great first haircut! I love that they gave him a set of ears and a certificate! Definitely a good choice to wait and do the first haircut there!

And it looks like James and Maya had a great time with Mickey, Minnie, and the Princesses! :)

I am really glad we waited. It was a special memory. And at only $18 for the cut, ears, and certificate, it's a great deal. Especially by Disney standards.

We had great luck with characters. I love how much theyean to my kids at this age!

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0443.jpg

Is it just me, or does anyone else see the creepy face in the raspberry lemonade slushy?!?!.....I may be losing my mind. :rolleyes1

Your TR is wonderful, yet again! Wow! The Mickey and Minnie pics were so great! Maybe the PP pics caught the kiss with Minnie. I love the kiddos pics with the princess! ADORABLE! I love :love: how intently James is looking at Aurora.

I, also, like the Pixie Dust in DD's hair.....so cute!

My DD was fascinated with the back scratcher. She would pick it up each time we saw it in the gift shop.

OH NO! I am sorry to hear about DD grabbing the CM to steady herself. I cannot believe the Cpt. had to draw attention to the situation....uggghhh! Even though it was an embarrassing situation at the time, it sure does make for a very funny memory that will last a life time.....:rotfl2:

So cute how your DS would say hi to Jack Sparrow each time he saw him on PoC.

As for the duct tape under the sports bra.....I am in the same boat. I was blessed up top and would more than likely get a black eye if I didn't reign them in.....:lmao:




that last comment is too funny!

I think I may miss responding to something- I'm on my phone and it's giving me issues. So sorry if I do!

Your dd has good taste! It's absolutely divine! I wish I had picked up a second one to take to work too. Did she end up getting one?

I would have never seen it if you hadn't mentioned it, but I see the face in the slushy too! Strange!

The jungle thing last trip was not so cute then- I'm just greatful that we never have to see those people again:). It is funny now though and I can't wait to embarrass her with it one day!

We were surprised numerous times on this trip by how much James took in. We've never watched pirates as a family, so I guess he just new that from his cousin talking about it

[DisneyMomma09]

Wow! Great luck getting so much accomplished! Colby loved Aladdin when we were there last time. We rode during the evening parade, so there was no wait and he went on 3 or 4 times in a row!



Is it just me, or does anyone else see the creepy face in the raspberry lemonade slushy?!?!.....I may be losing my mind. :rolleyes1



I see it too! I didn't notice it until you pointed it out, but I just thought I would let you know that I don't think you are losing your mind.

[lbuzz52]

I have a bit of catching up to do. I read this page, and my family is wondering what I'm laughing about.

Looks like you had very nice wait times!

I went to the Mickey/Minnie greet once, but didn't notice the sounds of carrot eating. Will have to pay next time!

That is so cute that James was more interested in the benches than the princesses. He looks quite unsure of himself on the magic carpet. Your daughter looks like she really enjoyed the meet and greets!

my family was there when it happened and they laughed too. My dad knee better than to ask me to ride again;)

we did have great wait times. We were lucky to get there before most schools were out.

I had heard that the rabbit in the hat made sounds as if he was eating carrots that's sure what it sounded like to me.

I think Maya could have stayed with the princesses all day and be happy.

I really was not expecting James to be nervous on Aladdin. He was okay except with the lifts or drops. I hope he grows out of it. Je is
certainly a daredevil at home and I was hoping he'd be my thrill ride partner eventually.


We were there the same week just a few rooms down from you!:)

Really? Did you see us? Where were you exactly? What were your park/days? I wonder if our paths crossed? Enough questions for you:goodvibes

WELCOME! By the way, and thanks for reading!

[PirateKate]

I know just what you mean by never having had to get a little boy's hair cut before. The CM who did Carter's first haircut asked what I wanted her to do with it and I had no clue what to say. I told her to do whatever most other little boys get for first haircuts. :laughing: James' haircut looks very cute on him. It sounds like he did great getting it cut.

Meeting all the princesses looks fun, too. It's nice that James was so interested in meeting all of them. I wouldn't have guessed that princesses would be of any interest to a boy of that age.

Those slushies look great for a hot day. :thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

I just love James' face when talking to the princesses!! It's truly priceless...I'd probably blow one of them up and frame it -- maybe in black & white!

Great story about the Jungle cruise...one of the things you can do when she becomes a teenager (like mine) is teasingly warn: please don't do like you did back then...! :lmao: You'll finally get your payback for the embarrassment! ;)

This is such a cute TR!! :thumbsup2

great idea:rotfl2: i need to start a journal of ways to embarrass my kids as they grow up. i know, i'm mean, but i'm looking forward to it:lmao:
okay, not in a mean way, but i think being silly is an important part of life!


I totally love James new do! :cloud9: Too bad there wasn't a PP guy there to help you capture pictures. :(

Glad to hear you had an embarrassing-free Jungle Cruise. :lmao::rotfl2:

Love your pictures with the characters! I totally should have gotten me a backscratcher too. :rolleyes:

The slushies looked good! TK, I totally see the creepy face. :lmao: Honestly, I know I'll get flamed for saying this, but we didn't care for the Dole Whips, so I personally don't think you was missing out on them. Slushies over DW's in my book. :thumbsup2

And I remember the days of the pogo balls ... I don't recall if we ever skipped rope on them or not ... I do recall our first experience ... It was Christmas Day... the front porch was iced over, but we tried it anyway. :lmao:

It would be neat if they had pp there like they do at BBB or PL. I guess most grown men don't care to have it memorialized. butr you would think that there would be enough demand for first haircuts? Either way, i'm glad we did it. i don't think i'll ever forget it:thumbsup2

We were lucky to have so many great character experiences this trip!

You should have got a back scratcher! Maya says its the best thing i ever purchased (but then again, she was my designated back scratcher before)

I was interested in the Dole Whips to see what the hype was about. But i think i would have been like you in my feelings about them. I'm the biggest icee/ slushie fan alive though, as are my kids.

that's pretty talented, pogo balls on an icy porch. i can barely walk on icy surfaces, let alone jump:thumbsup2

Great update! :thumbsup2

The pictures with Mickey, Minnie and the princesses are adorable. Don't feel bad about not pointing Ariel to your daughter. I feel that I waisted more time waiting for characters this time that at any ride.

Your Jungle Cruise incident is too funny. :rotfl2: Glad you manages to keep it clean this time. ;)

Those slushies look amazing. I had a regular lemonade at DHS but this razz berry combination sounds so yummy!

That is great that your daughter can go in some roller coasters already. I cannot wait for my daughter to be tall enough to ride Big Thuner Mountain and Splash Mountain. :)

Can't wait to read more.

Q

It's crazy how much time we devote to characters; it won't last for too many more years though, so i'll take that while i have it. i just love how excited and happy it makes the kids:love:

its a funny story now, but i'm glad that there wasn't another incident this trip!

That slushy was so good. i could have one every week and never grow tired of it.

it won't be too long before your dd can ride with you on some of the bigger rides:thumbsup2

thanks for the compliments and thanks for reading along!!

[lbuzz52]

I know just what you mean by never having had to get a little boy's hair cut before. The CM who did Carter's first haircut asked what I wanted her to do with it and I had no clue what to say. I told her to do whatever most other little boys get for first haircuts. :laughing: James' haircut looks very cute on him. It sounds like he did great getting it cut.

Meeting all the princesses looks fun, too. It's nice that James was so interested in meeting all of them. I wouldn't have guessed that princesses would be of any interest to a boy of that age.

Those slushies look great for a hot day. :thumbsup2

I felt a little silly having no idea how to tell her what i wanted. luckily it turned out alright. I think i may try to start trimming it myself though pretty soon. it will be harder for me to mess it up because you can't tell how crooked i get it when it curls:rotfl:

i'm not sure that James wanted to mee the princesses as much as he wanted to do what his sissy was doing. He really seems to idolize her, and wants to do everything she does. He doesn't know any of there names, like he does the fab five and the boy characters.

yes, the slushies were perfect for helping us cool off!

Wow! Great luck getting so much accomplished! Colby loved Aladdin when we were there last time. We rode during the evening parade, so there was no wait and he went on 3 or 4 times in a row!




I see it too! I didn't notice it until you pointed it out, but I just thought I would let you know that I don't think you are losing your mind.


we had wonderful wait times this day. I was really happy that we had finished most everything that day, so we could concentrate on favorites and a couple other characters on our second mk day.

i think that was a great idea to hit Aladdin during the parade!

Found your TR today and just finished reading all of it--minus comments of course! OK, I read a few...

Anyway, seems like you got a TON accomplished that first day!! Lovin' it so far!:goodvibes

Your DD reminds me of my DD7, she talks to everyone and it is non stop!!;)

Your DS looks super cute with the haircut!:thumbsup2

It's funny, I bought my DH some tshirts from Kohl's before we went 1 year and kept seeing them on men around the park too!

OMG--what an embarrassing moment from your '09 trip on the Jungle Cruise! But hopefully you can laugh about it now--we never know what our little rugrats will do next sometimes!!:scared1:

Well, that's all I can think of for now, should've written my comments down...

Looking forward to more of your TR!!:woohoo:

:welcome: thanks for reading!

we got so much done that day! the momentum always runs high for us a the beginning of the trip, so we took advantage of it!

Maya loves to talk! really she just loves to make noise. if she doesn't have something to talk about she will sing random noises :headache: da-ba -de-doo. ba-ba- see- loo. me-ma- ki-bloo. seriously? it cracks me up because James is completely opposite.

yes, my kiddos love to embarrass me now and again, but i'll get them back one day:rotfl2:

its funny that there are a million graphic tees and shirst for me, and then we all pick the same ones. i love kohls though!

thanks for the compliments on my sweet babies:love:

[Lidian]

It would be neat if they had pp there like they do at BBB or PL. I guess most grown men don't care to have it memorialized. butr you would think that there would be enough demand for first haircuts? Either way, i'm glad we did it. i don't think i'll ever forget it:thumbsup2

We were lucky to have so many great character experiences this trip!

You should have got a back scratcher! Maya says its the best thing i ever purchased (but then again, she was my designated back scratcher before)

I was interested in the Dole Whips to see what the hype was about. But i think i would have been like you in my feelings about them. I'm the biggest icee/ slushie fan alive though, as are my kids.

that's pretty talented, pogo balls on an icy porch. i can barely walk on icy surfaces, let alone jump:thumbsup2

The only PP they had at TPL was in the secret room and outside (but if that PP didn't see you and flag you down, you didn't know they were there). I wished they had PP's for the whole TPL experience.

My designated backscratcher might feel disappointed I put her out of a job. She loves scracthing my back. :lmao:

And don't get me wrong, the Dole Whips were okay ... but not anything I would ever deem as a MUST. If we're hot and passing by, we MIGHT stop, but I would prefer a slushie. :thumbsup2

And I never said we accomplished Pogo'ing on the icy porch. :rotfl2: I just said we attempted. :lmao::lmao:

[Villainess]

I'm glad to hear that you were able to get onto Jungle Cruise without any mishaps this year! OMG! I'm still :rotfl2:

I hadn't seen any pictures of the new Town Square meet n greet area - they look nice!

[lbuzz52]

The only PP they had at TPL was in the secret room and outside (but if that PP didn't see you and flag you down, you didn't know they were there). I wished they had PP's for the whole TPL experience.

My designated backscratcher might feel disappointed I put her out of a job. She loves scracthing my back. :lmao:

And don't get me wrong, the Dole Whips were okay ... but not anything I would ever deem as a MUST. If we're hot and passing by, we MIGHT stop, but I would prefer a slushie. :thumbsup2

And I never said we accomplished Pogo'ing on the icy porch. :rotfl2: I just said we attempted. :lmao::lmao:

i wonder if there is a place to comment on photopass- i'd love to let them know what i thought of the quality of pictures this year and where i'd like to have them at.

okay, so please tell me there is a video of this "attempt" at the pogo ball. the whole thing that got me thinking of the pogo ball was when Maya asked for a pogo stick for her birthday. is it sad that i think its too scary for her to be on one? can you say let go momma

I'm glad to hear that you were able to get onto Jungle Cruise without any mishaps this year! OMG! I'm still :rotfl2:

I hadn't seen any pictures of the new Town Square meet n greet area - they look nice!

i can't wait until Maya is old enough to be told the story and understand it. i bet her face will be so red:rotfl:

the area is nice! i hope that other character areas will follow suit:thumbsup2

[Lidian]

i wonder if there is a place to comment on photopass- i'd love to let them know what i thought of the quality of pictures this year and where i'd like to have them at.

okay, so please tell me there is a video of this "attempt" at the pogo ball. the whole thing that got me thinking of the pogo ball was when Maya asked for a pogo stick for her birthday. is it sad that i think its too scary for her to be on one? can you say let go momma

Hmm... I dunno where one could make comments or suggestions on PP. :scratchin:

And no, no video ... was there such a thing back then? :lmao::rotfl2:

And yeah, I'd have issues with a stick myself (for my kids). However, I'd be all about letting them have the pogo ball! So don't feel bad, I'd be the same way. :thumbsup2

[LeeLee'sMom]

James' hair cut is absolutely adorable :lovestruc and loved the way he was looking at the princess...you have to crop/print & frame that pic way too cute! The backgrounds for the meet & greet are much better than the ones that were in Toon Town..I thought maybe we could finally skip meeting the princesses this year but now I need to have pics with the adorable backgrounds. Maya looks like she is thoroughly enjoying herself..:thumbsup2 Big Thunder and Splash Mountains are so fun...:thumbsup2

[lbuzz52]

Hmm... I dunno where one could make comments or suggestions on PP. :scratchin:

And no, no video ... was there such a thing back then? :lmao::rotfl2:

And yeah, I'd have issues with a stick myself (for my kids). However, I'd be all about letting them have the pogo ball! So don't feel bad, I'd be the same way. :thumbsup2

i think there was video... i think it was on those things called cassette tapes. and the camera itself was larger than my current printer!

okay, good. i wonder if i could find a pogo ball... she'd like that too and its a much shorter fall


James' hair cut is absolutely adorable :lovestruc and loved the way he was looking at the princess...you have to crop/print & frame that pic way too cute! The backgrounds for the meet & greet are much better than the ones that were in Toon Town..I thought maybe we could finally skip meeting the princesses this year but now I need to have pics with the adorable backgrounds. Maya looks like she is thoroughly enjoying herself..:thumbsup2 Big Thunder and Splash Mountains are so fun...:thumbsup2

Thanks! we like it too! He was so sweet with the ladies!

I have not read too many reports of the lines at the princesses being too long now, especially with the fastpasses. They are moving again next year, right?
Better get this one to be part of Princess history :lmao:

I agree, they are some of my favorite rides! i wish i was on them right now!

Thanks for the compliments:love:

[petals]

Joining in...

I believe Disney is a new adventure at every age and therefore needs to be explored thoroughly... and often.:goodvibes
I like your thinking!

[Lidian]

i think there was video... i think it was on those things called cassette tapes. and the camera itself was larger than my current printer!

okay, good. i wonder if i could find a pogo ball... she'd like that too and its a much shorter fall


Oh... I remember those! Yes, the VCR and the Camcorders were bigger than my printer as well. :lmao::rotfl2:

I saw a Pogo Ball (different brand, same thing) not too long ago ... so I'd say there still around in some form. I think they called it Moon-something the last time I saw it ... but check the toy stores (probably online) and see if you can find it. I know they made "moon shoes" ... but this was a pogo ball they were using. And it was in the past few years, because DD saw it and wanted one. :thumbsup2

Just googled ... Pogo Moon Hopper is available at Amazon. ;) So they still exist under similar and/or different names! WOOT! Think I'll order one .... :rotfl2:

Oh ... and not only is it a shorter fall, I think they're MUCH easier to use and navigate. I've used both, and I prefer the ball over the stick anyway. I felt like I had no control over the stick, but I did with the ball. :thumbsup2

[Moira222]

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0443.jpg

Is it just me, or does anyone else see the creepy face in the raspberry lemonade slushy?!?!.....I may be losing my mind. :rolleyes1

too funny 0- now that you point it out, I so see it!


Here's what happened last time...

Now we were ready to use our Jungle Cruise fast passes. It was there that I had one of those “please hide me” mommy moments. I’m not sure if you all remember, but when I first started this report, I said that Maya was independent.


So we walked on Jungle using our fastpasses. We were loading our boat and Maya needed help getting on. She could have used the CM’s hand for help. She could have used Nonni’s hand for help. There is even a bar to use to hold on to for support. But what does she pick????

just what did Maya use to help herself on the boat????

She grabs the cm’s crotch. OH MY GOODNESS.

And if that wasn’t bad enough… the skipper notices and says “I’m not going to lie, that’s freaky” .

OVER THE CB RADIO.

Yep, I didn’t even notice the cheesy jokes. I was too busy trying to blend into the seat.

:rotfl2::rotfl2::lmao:That is too freaking funny really! you gave the CM a story to tell!


Honestly, I know I'll get flamed for saying this, but we didn't care for the Dole Whips, so I personally don't think you was missing out on them. Slushies over DW's in my book. :thumbsup2

Lidian - I didn't think it was "all that" either - although the Grand Marnier slushies in Epcot TOTALLY ROCKED. Even DH is still talking about those babies!:rotfl:

[lbuzz52]

Joining in...


I like your thinking!


:welcome: Thanks for joining in!

I'm still trying to convince DH of that thinking! In fact, last night we were talking to a friend who works for Hilton and therefore gets a great room discount. I told DH one of us needed to work for Hilton so we could stay at Bonnet Creek at a cheap rate. He countered with but then we'd have to pay for parking. My solution as to get an annual pass :rotfl2:... my logic didn't convince him... yet.

Oh... I remember those! Yes, the VCR and the Camcorders were bigger than my printer as well. :lmao::rotfl2:

I saw a Pogo Ball (different brand, same thing) not too long ago ... so I'd say there still around in some form. I think they called it Moon-something the last time I saw it ... but check the toy stores (probably online) and see if you can find it. I know they made "moon shoes" ... but this was a pogo ball they were using. And it was in the past few years, because DD saw it and wanted one. :thumbsup2

Just googled ... Pogo Moon Hopper is available at Amazon. ;) So they still exist under similar and/or different names! WOOT! Think I'll order one .... :rotfl2:

Oh ... and not only is it a shorter fall, I think they're MUCH easier to use and navigate. I've used both, and I prefer the ball over the stick anyway. I felt like I had no control over the stick, but I did with the ball. :thumbsup2

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-9463916reg.jpg
I found this one at Toys R Us. Unfortunately they don't have a comparable one for girls.

Come to think of it, i remember trying a pogo stick and not being too efficient with it...

i remember the moon shoes too, but i never felt that they worked as well as the ball. i know people who loved them though.

I just may order the one from Amazon. the reviews seem mixed, but it seems that some could not figure out to pump it up.

did you really order one?

[lbuzz52]

too funny 0- now that you point it out, I so see it!

:rotfl2::rotfl2::lmao:That is too freaking funny really! you gave the CM a story to tell!



Lidian - I didn't think it was "all that" either - although the Grand Marnier slushies in Epcot TOTALLY ROCKED. Even DH is still talking about those babies!:rotfl:

I think it would be fun to be in the Employee break room at shift change. I bet they do have a lot of stories to tell- from things like Maya's story to horrible cast members and everything in between.

Thanks for helping me get over missing the:rotfl: Dole Whip

[Lidian]

too funny 0- now that you point it out, I so see it!

:rotfl2::rotfl2::lmao:That is too freaking funny really! you gave the CM a story to tell!

Lidian - I didn't think it was "all that" either - although the Grand Marnier slushies in Epcot TOTALLY ROCKED. Even DH is still talking about those babies!:rotfl:

Ack! I totally missed any and all slushies... especially adult ones! :( I'm putting you in charge of making me get one next time. :p

:welcome: Thanks for joining in!

I'm still trying to convince DH of that thinking! In fact, last night we were talking to a friend who works for Hilton and therefore gets a great room discount. I told DH one of us needed to work for Hilton so we could stay at Bonnet Creek at a cheap rate. He countered with but then we'd have to pay for parking. My solution as to get an annual pass :rotfl2:... my logic didn't convince him... yet.

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-9463916reg.jpg
I found this one at Toys R Us. Unfortunately they don't have a comparable one for girls.

Come to think of it, i remember trying a pogo stick and not being too efficient with it...

i remember the moon shoes too, but i never felt that they worked as well as the ball. i know people who loved them though.

I just may order the one from Amazon. the reviews seem mixed, but it seems that some could not figure out to pump it up.

did you really order one?

OMG, I want the Cars one!!! Stinks they don't have a Princess or Fairy one. :headache:

I haven't ordered one .. yet. I'd love to get the kids pogo balls ... but right now, finances are not in the cards for such purchases. :lmao: Hmmm.... save for Disney or buy kids toys? :confused3 :rotfl2: No, seriously, it's totally something to be considered as an upcoming gift for the kids. I think they'd love 'em! Hmm.... next gift they'd get ... Drat, Christmas. We'll see. If you do order one, lemme know how it goes!

I recall the ones we got being inflated already (in the box). I recall seeing pictures not too long ago. But surely it isn't too hard to inflate a flat one. :confused3

[Marshay]

All caught up!

Love James' haircut. So sorry, you didn't find the hair afterwards...I almost threw ours away too when we had my 1st daughter's done. Remember for my 2nd daughter to put it all in one large bag, together!

Yes, I saw that face in the rasp-lemon slushie!!

I'm surprised James didn't like Aladdin since it seems like a nice slow ride. My youngest (also 2 in March) just loved it and giggled. I was surprised by the 5-10 minute wait, too.

We didn't encounter any tour groups when we visited (and it was the same time as you).

Love your Jungle Cruise story -- that poor CM!!:scared1:

I'm guessing you are going to stop in Country Bears and hope that Splash Mountain opens up afterwards.

This is the first year that my nearly 6 year old did NOT like Country Bears! (She's growing up!) but my 2yo loved it and clapped and laughed.

[lbuzz52]

Sorry for the lack of pictures for this update. Hopefully its a nice departure from the abundance of the last few updates:goodvibes



When we last left off, we had tried to ride Splash but it was down. Instead, made a suggestion Chris did not like.




So off to Pecos Bill's we went. We ate here twice last trip and Chris wasn't impressed with either meal. It didn't help that they had completely burnt the burgers the first time we ate there. It was close by though, so it would do for now.

Aparently I am 0/3 for taking pictures of our meals there. A couple of menu items had changed since we were last there- it was nice to have more variety.

#1 BBQ Pork Sandwich - Smoked pulled pork served with your choice of French fries or Apple Slices - $8.89
#2 1/3 Angus Cheeseburger - Served with your choice of French fries or Apple
Slices - $8.29
#3 Deluxe 1/3 lb Angus Cheeseburger - Topped with Bacon, onion rings, and
BBQ sauce. served with apple slices or French fries - $9.29
#4 Vegetable Burger - Served with apple slices or french fries - $6.99
#5 Ceasar Salad with Chicken - Romaine lettuce, chicken and Parmesan - $7.79 #6 Taco Salad - Lettuce, Tomato, Cheese, and seasoned beef - $7.69
#7 Chicken Wrap - Served with French fries or Apple Slices. - $8.79

Kids' Picks: Hamburger, Turkey Sandwich or PB&J - All meals include choice of two side items: grapes, carrot sticks, or applesauce and choice of beverage: 1% milk, small bottled water, or apple juice. Chocolate Chip Cookie, French fries and soda available upon request. - $4.99
thanks WDW info:thumbsup2

Both the PBJ and the turkey sandwich were new to the kids menu, as well as the vegetable burger i believe.

Chris got the chicken caeser. I got the taco salad with lots of fixins' from the toppings bar. I :love: the fact that they have fresh sauteed onions! Maya wanted peanut butter and jelly. I asked James what he wanted, and he actually responded- turkey. I couldn't neglect him when he actually used his words, so we got them each their own meal this time. We used 3 counter service credits, and James was out of pocket. It was about $5.25. We got one of each of the 4 sides and let the kids share. Chris and I chose the cookies for our dessert, and we put them in the stroller for later.

We made our way back to the mountains. Maya and Chris first used the baby swap for Thunder.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0460.jpg


Then they rode Splash. Maya came off saying "I love that ride! I wish we had rode it all day!" She and I then took our turn. That ride sure seems longer when your child is pointing out each and every thing.

"Okay momma, don't be scared. First we have a small hill, then a medium one, them another medium one, then a small one. Then there is the big one but you need to hold me and you will know it's time because you will see the birds. And daddy said that is briar bear and that is briar fox. There is frog frog. I call him that because I don't know his name. And there is duck duck......... And bird bird...." :crazy2:


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Wed%20May%2011th%20Magic%20Kingdom%20and%20 Harmony/DSCN0462.jpg

While we were doing this, James was playing in the Laughing Spot playground near the exit. He was in love with this place. He slid the entire time we were babyswapping both rides, just one slide after another. The only time he stopped was when the train passed. He would run over to me and cover his ears and as soon as the train passed he was gone again. I also saw him stand up to a big kid and tell him no when he was trying to push past him! James just giggled the entire time!

Last on our list for the day was Pooh! James is a huge Pooh fan and we were excited to ride! The standby said 10 minutes but we entered the FP side anyway. We glanced at the new interactive queue and decided we would have to time it so we could play another day. The line ended up being so short they didn't take our fp. Oh well- we had seen it as long as 40min during the day, so better to have them and not need them.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/081.jpg

James pointed out all our friends from the hundred acre woods-

"der's pooh bear, der's pigget, der's eror, der's tigder".

As we headed thru the exit we realized it was 8:57. :scared1:Whoops. We hurried to the strollers. Quickly we walked past the tea cups, thru Tomorrowland, and on to Main Street- avoiding the hub. The sidewalks were pretty easy to manuever and before we knew it we were at bus stop 16. Ahead of the wishes crowd! We once again watched part of Wishes from the bus stop and We made it on the first bus. Maya sat across from me and James and I shared a seat. We were on the part of the bus though where the seats were on a raised portion. I was seated next to a larger man. My feet didn't touch the bottom and had I no handrails. The lady next to Maya started giggling at me while I struggled to keep my balance, and told me I could grab her hubby to keep from falling! Luckily it was unnecessary.

We rested our feet for a minute before heading to the quiet pool. It was SO refreshing- both from the heat of the day and for my tired feet.

When we got back to the room, Maya quickly changed. She climbed in bed and told is we could give her hugs and kisses whenever we wanted. That was her way of saying she was exhausted! I asked her what her favorite part of the day was before she fell asleep. She answered swimming and IASW and the teacups. I asked James too but I couldn't understand his answer. So I decided he said meeting Pooh and kissing Minnie.

He sang for a bit before I decided to go and fill our mugs. I figured taking my noise out of the room may help him fall asleep. By the time I returned he was out. Chris and I were not far behind.

[lbuzz52]

All caught up!

Love James' haircut. So sorry, you didn't find the hair afterwards...I almost threw ours away too when we had my 1st daughter's done. Remember for my 2nd daughter to put it all in one large bag, together!

Yes, I saw that face in the rasp-lemon slushie!!

I'm surprised James didn't like Aladdin since it seems like a nice slow ride. My youngest (also 2 in March) just loved it and giggled. I was surprised by the 5-10 minute wait, too.

We didn't encounter any tour groups when we visited (and it was the same time as you).

Love your Jungle Cruise story -- that poor CM!!:scared1:

I'm guessing you are going to stop in Country Bears and hope that Splash Mountain opens up afterwards.

This is the first year that my nearly 6 year old did NOT like Country Bears! (She's growing up!) but my 2yo loved it and clapped and laughed.

It was the up and down motion that he didn't like. he was fine as long as it was just moving in a circle. maybe he's just got to get used to that tummy drop feeling?

That's interesting that you didnt see any tour groups. We saw quite a few, but other than at the turnstyles they were usually split up. Sometimes they split into 6 or so kids, sometimes more like a full school class.

No, it wasn't Country Bears, but that would have recieved he same response:lmao:

We did have great wait times, didn't we!


Ack! I totally missed any and all slushies... especially adult ones! :( I'm putting you in charge of making me get one next time. :p



OMG, I want the Cars one!!! Stinks they don't have a Princess or Fairy one. :headache:

I haven't ordered one .. yet. I'd love to get the kids pogo balls ... but right now, finances are not in the cards for such purchases. :lmao: Hmmm.... save for Disney or buy kids toys? :confused3 :rotfl2: No, seriously, it's totally something to be considered as an upcoming gift for the kids. I think they'd love 'em! Hmm.... next gift they'd get ... Drat, Christmas. We'll see. If you do order one, lemme know how it goes!

I recall the ones we got being inflated already (in the box). I recall seeing pictures not too long ago. But surely it isn't too hard to inflate a flat one. :confused3

its the only non Rapunzel thing she has requested for her birthday. I think i may order it.

[lbuzz52]

This is Disney related because if this had not happened, then we would be going to WDW in October instead of our May trip.

The public schools around here are not the best. And our assigned school, while better than some in the district, still leaves much to be desired. So we put in for a transfer to this one particular school. Kindy at this school is highly coveted. Chris was in line for 23 hours to get an application. He was 30th in line, and out of those first 30, 20 were attempting to get one of the same kindy positions that we were. No telling how many more people applied after us for those spots. By these numbers alone, we had a great shot at getting a spot- but there were other criteria too. If you were assigned to a failing school (aka worst of the worst.) or if you had siblings already attending then you would get priority. Excessive tardies or absences will cause us to lose our transfer, so we couldn't take an October trip and miss school if she were to be accepted.



We found out she was accepted:thumbsup2 Maya was so cute last week, she waited every day at the mailbox to see if her letter had come. and she jumped up and down. She's been telling everyone she got into "hindergarden". apparently, she thought if she didn't get in here she wouldn't be allowed to go al all:rotfl2:

We are so excited that she has the opportunity to go to this school. It means we don't have to find other additional sources of income to try to fund a private school. And more importantly, she will be learning with children, teachers, and parents who understand the importance of education and want them to succeed.

[Marshay]

Congrats on getting into the Kindy program you wanted. And good job Chris for waiting in line so long!!!

We ate at Pecos Bill's once and thought it was good -- love the fixin's bar and figure it's hard to ruin a burger ... but of course, if they burn it:rotfl2:

So glad to hear Maya loves BTMRR!!

[lbuzz52]

Congrats on getting into the Kindy program you wanted. And good job Chris for waiting in line so long!!!

We ate at Pecos Bill's once and thought it was good -- love the fixin's bar and figure it's hard to ruin a burger ... but of course, if they burn it:rotfl2:

So glad to hear Maya loves BTMRR!!

i thought my taco salad was pretty good! i was glad we went again and gave it a chance to redeem itself. Its just in such a convenient location when you love to watch the parades in frontierland as we do.

Thanks! Chris is a really great father- i'm lucky for that!

[SimmerBaggins]

Awww...great ending to this day. I love the "give hugs and kisses whenever you want"!!

And, funny thing -- when I was reading the menu to Pecos Bill's (we've never been, btw), I thought, "hmm, I'd have the taco salad"...so glad to hear it was good! :thumbsup2

[PirateKate]

We like Pecos Bills, too. I love that James asked for turkey. I always think it would be so nice if my boys would just tell me what they want to eat.

Congrats on the good kindergarten program! That's awesome. :cool1:

[lbuzz52]

Awww...great ending to this day. I love the "give hugs and kisses whenever you want"!!

And, funny thing -- when I was reading the menu to Pecos Bill's (we've never been, btw), I thought, "hmm, I'd have the taco salad"...so glad to hear it was good! :thumbsup2

She just did not want to admit she was worn out. She was having so much fun, i think she would have kept going until her body gave out. we had a really great day, but i think 12 hours at the park is long for any age.

i thought the chicken wrap looked good too; i had just had chicken for lunch though so i'll have to try it a different time.


We like Pecos Bills, too. I love that James asked for turkey. I always think it would be so nice if my boys would just tell me what they want to eat.

Congrats on the good kindergarten program! That's awesome. :cool1:

that was the first time James had really answered. Usually i ask him what he wants and Maya answers with something she wants and then James might say yes or no. i get so frustrated at the store. a simple question is such a struggle. James- do you want blueberry or peach yogurt? which one? he likes to point at both and then scream for whichever i put back.

We are really excited about her K program. I wish i could keep her young and innocent forever, but since i can't, this is the place she neds to be:thumbsup2

[DisneyMomma09]

Hmmm...we will have to explore the play area outside of Splash. Sounds like Colby would like it!

Whenever I ask Colby what he wants to eat, he always answers with the same response: French Fries! If I ask him what else he wants to eat, he might say ketchup!

I'm glad Maya liked the big rides!

[Lidian]

Too cute that she pointed out EVERYTHING on Splash. :lmao:

We totally missed Pooh this year. I glanced around for FP machines, but never could locate them. I didn't look too hard though, as it wasn't a MUST do.

Too cute that she climbed in bed and wanted hugs & kisses just whenever. :lmao:

And saw your FB post - wasn't 100% what it meant, but now I understand! MAJOR CONGRATS!!!!!!!! :hug:

[Villainess]

Glad to hear Maya got into the kindergarten program!!!!! (and that she is excited to go as well).

[lovethattink]

Sounds like a great day at MK. Glad Maya liked Splash MT. Also that she got into the kindergarten you had hoped for. 23 hours in line!!!?? My dh would have said forget it.

[lbuzz52]

Hmmm...we will have to explore the play area outside of Splash. Sounds like Colby would like it!

Whenever I ask Colby what he wants to eat, he always answers with the same response: French Fries! If I ask him what else he wants to eat, he might say ketchup!

I'm glad Maya liked the big rides!

Ha! James' equivalent of french fries would be String cheese.

Its a pretty fun play area- some seating and definitely sized for those who aren't yet tall enough for the rest of Frontierland.

Too cute that she pointed out EVERYTHING on Splash. :lmao:

We totally missed Pooh this year. I glanced around for FP machines, but never could locate them. I didn't look too hard though, as it wasn't a MUST do.

Too cute that she climbed in bed and wanted hugs & kisses just whenever. :lmao:

And saw your FB post - wasn't 100% what it meant, but now I understand! MAJOR CONGRATS!!!!!!!! :hug:

on this other board i am on, there is a smiley that say "blahblahblah" i was looking for it here, as it would have been perfect for the story.

The Pooh FP are near Philharmagic i think.

thanks! it should be a fun year for her!

[lbuzz52]

Sounds like a great day at MK. Glad Maya liked Splash MT. Also that she got into the kindergarten you had hoped for. 23 hours in line!!!?? My dh would have said forget it.

i wouldn't have been able to do it. as if the long time period wasn't enough, it was cold and rainy that night. It was pretty crucial that she get in though. When he does it for James i bet he'll listen to the voice of reason (aka me) and take food/ raincoat/ blanket/ chair.

it was a great day! i hated for it to end!


Glad to hear Maya got into the kindergarten program!!!!! (and that she is excited to go as well).

thanks! now that she is in, she wants to learn how to read. So we are trying a 100 lesson learn to read program. wish me luck. she's as stubborn as an ox (i have no idea where she gets that from:rolleyes1)

[Lidian]

now that she is in, she wants to learn how to read. So we are trying a 100 lesson learn to read program. wish me luck. she's as stubborn as an ox (i have no idea where she gets that from:rolleyes1)

What is this? :confused3

[Moira222]

Ack! I totally missed any and all slushies... especially adult ones! :( I'm putting you in charge of making me get one next time. :p

Gladly!!! These were in Epcot, over in france in a little kiosk near the water. they so rocked.






So off to Pecos Bill's we went. We ate here twice last trip and Chris wasn't impressed with either meal. It didn't help that they had completely burnt the burgers the first time we ate there. It was close by though, so it would do for now.
.........................
Then they rode Splash. Maya came off saying "I love that ride! I wish we had rode it all day!" She and I then took our turn. That ride sure seems longer when your child is pointing out each and every thing.

"Okay momma, don't be scared. First we have a small hill, then a medium one, them another medium one, then a small one. Then there is the big one but you need to hold me and you will know it's time because you will see the birds. And daddy said that is briar bear and that is briar fox. There is frog frog. I call him that because I don't know his name. And there is duck duck......... And bird bird...." :crazy2:
..............................
While we were doing this, James was playing in the Laughing Spot playground near the exit. He was in love with this place. He slid the entire time we were babyswapping both rides, just one slide after another. The only time he stopped was when the train passed. He would run over to me and cover his ears and as soon as the train passed he was gone again. I also saw him stand up to a big kid and tell him no when he was trying to push past him! James just giggled the entire time!



James pointed out all our friends from the hundred acre woods-

"der's pooh bear, der's pigget, der's eror, der's tigder".



We have never eaten at Pecos Bill's but I like the menu changes. I think there were a few places that we don't even bother looking at because back in '07 they were junk food but Disney has changed quite a few menus.

I just LOVE how Maya narrates Splash. So Cute! Katie loved this ride too.

OH I just remembered the play area -s ort of on the way to the rest rooms, right? nice and tucked away. I forgot about them!

:cutie: for both your kids on being so descriptive of their favorites.

:cloud9:...that's how i think of a full day at a Disney park with collapsed kids at the end:lmao:

This is Disney related because if this had not happened, then we would be going to WDW in October instead of our May trip.
.............

We found out she was accepted:thumbsup2 Maya was so cute last week, she waited every day at the mailbox to see if her letter had come. and she jumped up and down. She's been telling everyone she got into "hindergarden". apparently, she thought if she didn't get in here she wouldn't be allowed to go al all:rotfl2:
.
:banana::banana::banana: That must be such a huge relief ot know that Maya got in, and it will help get James in too when he's old enough, right?

[lbuzz52]

Gladly!!! These were in Epcot, over in france in a little kiosk near the water. they so rocked.





We have never eaten at Pecos Bill's but I like the menu changes. I think there were a few places that we don't even bother looking at because back in '07 they were junk food but Disney has changed quite a few menus.

I just LOVE how Maya narrates Splash. So Cute! Katie loved this ride too.

OH I just remembered the play area -s ort of on the way to the rest rooms, right? nice and tucked away. I forgot about them!

:cutie: for both your kids on being so descriptive of their favorites.

:cloud9:...that's how i think of a full day at a Disney park with collapsed kids at the end:lmao:


:banana::banana::banana: That must be such a huge relief ot know that Maya got in, and it will help get James in too when he's old enough, right?

My kids are quite the entertainment in themselves:rotfl:
That's exactly where the play area is, by the restrooms.
pecos bill wasn't too bad this time. I think i may try teh chicken wrap next time; it looked pretty good!

we will have to do the transfer process again for James, but he will have priority over most becuase Maya is there. at least we have a few years!

What is this? :confused3

Its a book called Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. I got it off Amazon. Someone had asked about teaching your child to read on another board i am on. This, and the Bob books, were what was most recommended. we are only on lesson 12 but so far its not too bad. I'd be happy to give you more detailed info if you want to pm me or email me:thumbsup2

[Villainess]

I'm going to PM you for the info. My DD knows quite a few sight words, but we are trying to get into more reading - she loves books and sometimes is frustrated that I cannot always drop my work to read 10 books at a time.

[ctink23]

Great update! I have never eaten at Pecos Bill, but the menus looks great. Thanks for sharing!

This is so adorable!:

"Okay momma, don't be scared. First we have a small hill, then a medium one, them another medium one, then a small one. Then there is the big one but you need to hold me and you will know it's time because you will see the birds. And daddy said that is briar bear and that is briar fox. There is frog frog. I call him that because I don't know his name. And there is duck duck......... And bird bird...." :crazy2:

Glad to hear that Maya got into the school you wanted! :)

[lbuzz52]

Great update! I have never eaten at Pecos Bill, but the menus looks great. Thanks for sharing!

This is so adorable!:



Glad to hear that Maya got into the school you wanted! :)


I think the best time to eat at Pecos Bills is before a parade- just grab your food and take it to your waiting spot!

Maya sure loves to talk. she's such a silly girl!

thanks, she's really excited which in my opinion is a great attitude for school:thumbsup2

I'm going to PM you for the info. My DD knows quite a few sight words, but we are trying to get into more reading - she loves books and sometimes is frustrated that I cannot always drop my work to read 10 books at a time.

not a problem!

[lbuzz52]

Thursday, May 12th


Today is Epcot! We weren't pushing to be at the front of the line for rope drop but needed to be there near opening. We wanted to make the opening of the fairies!

We also hoped to see a few princesses we had never met while touring the World Showcase. Our count so far:3 princess: Aurora, Cinderella, and Belle


Maya wasn't excited to be woken up-but she jumped out of bed quickly when she heard there was another letter. This time, it was for her. It was an invite to dinner at Akershus.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/Akershus__INV_Maya.jpg


She turned to me with a smile on her face.

"Momma, isn't that Mickey one smart cookie. He knows just what we like!"

I took that as a sign of appreciation! But more importantly, this meant that it was not too late. My little girl has been growing up too quickly. Everyday now, it seems, she discovers that some part of this world is not as rosey at she originally thought. A month or so before we left, we went to a local baseball game. When we got home, she told me "I know Rocky isn't really a bird. He's just in a costume". It really hurt my heart knowing that she could very well say this about our Disney friends. I was beyond estatic when she gave credit to Mickey. It meant she may be growing older, but she's still a little girl at heart. She was enjoying this trip in a special way that only innocence can allow.:wizard: She still believes in the magic, and that makes it all the more magical to me.



It took us about an hour and 15 minutes to get ready again. We picked up our park bag and found another letter hidden. It was again for Maya. She was being recruited for a Kim Possible mission!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/Kim_Possible_Invite_Maya.jpg


We made it to the bus stop about 835. This time it took closer to 10 minutes to catch a bus. This was also the ride that took the longest to get through the property. It was approaching 9:00 by the time we left CBR. I remembered to take my morning photo in case we get separated.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0463.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0464.jpg


We were off the bus at Epcot by 10 after 9, but were once again the furthest bus stop. For the second day in a row, the bag check at the far left was much shorter than the rest.

We quickly headed past Mouse Gears to line up for Pixie Hollow.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0466.jpg


We made it just in time. The line for the opening session, 9:30, was cut off right after us. Maya's first choice in Pixies was Fawn- but she wasnt there so we decided to go with Tink because her appearance was first.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0469.jpg
They took the 9:30 off Tink/Terrance right after we lined up.


I decided to run in Mousegears to look for a hat. I left my sunglasses on the bed. Yesterday, my nose had gotten pink. I needed something for coverage. I looked through the womens hats. Well, I have a huge head. I tried on a few but they didn't fit well. The best of them just sat on the top of my head. :laughing: I looked at the mens but didn't find one I liked that would work for me. I decided I would just deal with it.

I returned to our stroller empty handed. Then Chris suggested that I try James' hat. (I had ordered him a hat from Disney store. They first shipped the wrong color. When I called to get it corrected all they had left was adult size. It fits my 2 year old when I adjust it.) It fit well enough on my big noggin. Burnt nose avoided!

Chris then ran to Test Track to grab fast passes. A couple of minutes later we see a handler setting up right next to us. Who does she have with her? The Queen of Hearts! :yay: Awesome! We never see villians! Maya glanced at me and I said go! I could see her from where I was standing in line. Just then I saw Chris walking back so i left him with James and made it over just in time to grab a picture!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0467.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0468.jpg


By that time Tink's line was moving. I noticed people finishing Tink's line with one parent and them joining the other parent in Vidia's line. I wish I had thought of that!

Maya really wanted to meet Vidia but her first appearance was cut off by the time we were done. I really felt bad once the fairy handler said she didn't know where the other pixies would be once Flower and Garden was over. I hope they are somewhere next time we come! But it was still great to see Tink and Terrance again!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0471.jpg
sweet siblings


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0475.jpg

I have more on Photopass, i hope to get that ordered this week. i might have a little obsession with boarders and cropping going on:rolleyes1


We stopped to take pictures of the topiaries from Winnie the Pooh. James didn't really cooperate though. He is at that age where he won't smile on command.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0479.jpg
He thought refusing to look at the camera was hilarious!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0465.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0480.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0482.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0485.jpg


Chris wanted in- Winnie the Pooh was his favorite growing up as well. James wasn't having it.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0483.jpg


Luckily Maya humored him.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0484.jpg


And no, I do not have any idea why my husband decided to wear a long sleeve collared shirt with a high of 96 degrees:confused3

A Kim Possible recruitment center was right there, so Maya and I grabbed a fastpass for a later mission.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0486.jpg


It said to report to Italy for our assignment. She was so very excited to have an opportunity to save the world!


Next: a Cool off & the Seas

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Love the invitations, very cute!

Can't believe you saw the Queen of Hearts! I haven't seen her since our trip back in 97!

[BellaBaby]

Great update!! How fun to meet the queen of hearts!:)

We have yet to meet the fairies. The last time we were there they were still in Toontown and the line was always too looong!! My DDs would love to meet them tho. I bet they'll have them somewhere as they are quite popular now.

We used to go in May during the F&G Festival when my oldest was in the lower grades. It was the best time to go and we loved the beautiful topiaries at that time!!:lovestruc

[mtgirl29]

I think I am finally caught up! The taco salad at Peco Bill's sounds delish! We weren't too impressed with the burgers this year, either.
I :love: that Maya was so excited about her invitation and that she thought Mickey was a smart cookie! So adorable. It is very depressing to see how fast they grow up and start thinking more along the lines of an adult. :sad2:
:lmao: I had to laugh when you wrote about James thinking it was funny to not look at the camera while you were taking their pics. So it starts....sounds just like my son. :rotfl2:
Looking forward to your next installment!!! popcorn::

[Villainess]

It is very depressing to see how fast they grow up and start thinking more along the lines of an adult. :sad2:


I completely agree; DD knows that at Sesame Place or Great Adventure there are people in the costumes, but she still believes that Mickey is Mickey and I hope it stays that way for a long while!

[lbuzz52]

Love the invitations, very cute!

Can't believe you saw the Queen of Hearts! I haven't seen her since our trip back in 97!

Thanks! i knew we were lucky, but i had no idea how lucky! i'm so glad we were in the right place at the right time:thumbsup2


Great update!! How fun to meet the queen of hearts!:)

We have yet to meet the fairies. The last time we were there they were still in Toontown and the line was always too looong!! My DDs would love to meet them tho. I bet they'll have them somewhere as they are quite popular now.

We used to go in May during the F&G Festival when my oldest was in the lower grades. It was the best time to go and we loved the beautiful topiaries at that time!!:lovestruc


The topiaries were really pretty. its amazing how much time and detail goes into them.

We met Tink and Rosetta once in Toontown. we were there for TT ropedrop and it still took 45 minutes. this time, it took maybe 30 minutes, but we were not at the front of the line. if we had been at the front and put one parent in each line we may have been able to knock both sets out in maybe 35 minutes? i agree, they are popular and need to be somewhere!


I think I am finally caught up! The taco salad at Peco Bill's sounds delish! We weren't too impressed with the burgers this year, either.
I :love: that Maya was so excited about her invitation and that she thought Mickey was a smart cookie! So adorable. It is very depressing to see how fast they grow up and start thinking more along the lines of an adult. :sad2:
:lmao: I had to laugh when you wrote about James thinking it was funny to not look at the camera while you were taking their pics. So it starts....sounds just like my son. :rotfl2:
Looking forward to your next installment!!! popcorn::


glad to hear it isn't just us at pecos bill's. i never hear anything bad about them, but after our first visit i was confused as to why.

she was so sweet with her love and appreciation for mickey. i hate how quickly time goes- it seems to be so much faster now that i am a parent. my parents always told me it would, but i had no clue how right they were.

james can be such a ham! he definitely keeps me on my toes!

I completely agree; DD knows that at Sesame Place or Great Adventure there are people in the costumes, but she still believes that Mickey is Mickey and I hope it stays that way for a long while!

isn't it wierd how they can accept the true with some instances, but still believe with others? i'm with you- i hope both our dd's keep believing for years and years to come!

[Moira222]

Thursday, May 12th


Today is Epcot!

"Momma, isn't that Mickey one smart cookie. He knows just what we like!"

Ijust LOVE That...gave me tears in my eyes I know you heart swelled! :cutie:

We picked up our park bag and found another letter hidden. It was again for Maya. She was being recruited for a Kim Possible mission!


You're so good with those invites!:thumbsup2


I returned to our stroller empty handed. Then Chris suggested that I try James' hat. (I had ordered him a hat from Disney store. They first shipped the wrong color. When I called to get it corrected all they had left was adult size. It fits my 2 year old when I adjust it.) It fit well enough on my big noggin. Burnt nose avoided!
:thumbsup2 YAY when you can find a hat that works!



Chris then ran to Test Track to grab fast passes. A couple of minutes later we see a handler setting up right next to us. Who does she have with her? The Queen of Hearts! :yay: Awesome! We never see villians! Maya glanced at me and I said go! I could see her from where I was standing in line. Just then I saw Chris walking back so i left him with James and made it over just in time to grab a picture!


[CENTER]http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0467.jpg

awesome! I have never seen her for signatures, only in a parade.



And no, I do not have any idea why my husband decided to wear a long sleeve collared shirt with a high of 96 degrees:confused3

A Kim Possible recruitment center was right there, so Maya and I grabbed a fastpass for a later mission.


Long sleeves AND an undershirt!!!! I am :sick: just thinking about all those layers!

Can't wait to hear about your KP Mission. We had a time, but never were able to return to complete the mission. I was very :sad2:

[DisneyMomma09]

How neat to meet the Queen of Hearts!

I'm glad Maya still believes in the Disney Magic!

I'm right there with you having a toddler who does not want to smile for pictures! Yesterday we went to Niagra Falls and every time we tried to take a picture with him in it, he would turn the opposite direction!

Sounds like the start of another fun day!

[lbuzz52]

Ijust LOVE That...gave me tears in my eyes I know you heart swelled! :cutie:

You're so good with those invites!:thumbsup2

:thumbsup2 YAY when you can find a hat that works!


awesome! I have never seen her for signatures, only in a parade.

Long sleeves AND an undershirt!!!! I am :sick: just thinking about all those layers!

Can't wait to hear about your KP Mission. We had a time, but never were able to return to complete the mission. I was very :sad2:

I was so excited for her. There is just something so sweet about Disney innocence.

i can't take credit for the invites; all i did was find them on the creative board and ask Shadowryter to put my kids names in. The people on that board are great!!

i have such a big head! when i find sunglasses that fit i have to buy a half a dozen pair:lmao:

i'm not going to pretend to understand my dh's brain! i surely woudl have melted in long sleeves.

KP was fun! we will get there after lunch!


How neat to meet the Queen of Hearts!

I'm glad Maya still believes in the Disney Magic!

I'm right there with you having a toddler who does not want to smile for pictures! Yesterday we went to Niagra Falls and every time we tried to take a picture with him in it, he would turn the opposite direction!

Sounds like the start of another fun day!

I was glad too! It makes it so much fun!

I can't catch James for a picture most of the time. Even when he does give in and pose, its as if he thinks the shutter speed on my camera moves quicker than my fingers can. He's gone long before i'm focused.

It was another great day!

[keri125]

Thanks for almost getting me in trouble at work today! :lmao: I had to cover the front desk for my co-worker, and since it was slow, I decided to read a quick trip report on the boards. Yours looked interesting, so I started reading. I was hooked! When my co-worker returned, I was disappointed and tried to finish the reports at my desk, but almost got caught by my boss, so decided to save it for tonight! :rotfl2:
I just finished and am jonesing for more! You are a wonderful writer, just really illustrate everything so well. I feel like I was there on the trip with you! And your children are just adorable! I LOVE James' face and could just eat him up!! There were several of the pictures you posted that brought tears to my eyes because of the look of wonder on his face - and that mischievous grin! I love it! And Maya is just beautiful.
Anyways, subscribed so can't wait to read more! Thanks for posting!

[ctink23]

"Momma, isn't that Mickey one smart cookie. He knows just what we like!"

So cute! I am glad that she got to enjoy the magic! The little touches really can make the trip even more magical!

Tink and the Queen of Hearts! Great characters to meet!

Looking forward to reading about the Kim Possible mission.

[heaven2dc]

Queen of Hearts seems so hard to find in a character meet-and-greet - great job scoring that one! :thumbsup2 It's funny that in 1997 during our first trip to WDW, the only character that we saw that you could actually walk up to and get an autograph without being at a character meal was the Queen of Hearts. We saw Minnie & Mickey a couple of times at HS waving from a car and I felt like you had to be a papparazzi to snag a photo! :rotfl2: (much less an autograph). But then I didn't discover the Disboards until much later so not sure if there were any websites that give as much info back then as community boards do now (and the Disboards rock!)

[lbuzz52]

Queen of Hearts seems so hard to find in a character meet-and-greet - great job scoring that one! :thumbsup2 It's funny that in 1997 during our first trip to WDW, the only character that we saw that you could actually walk up to and get an autograph without being at a character meal was the Queen of Hearts. We saw Minnie & Mickey a couple of times at HS waving from a car and I felt like you had to be a papparazzi to snag a photo! :rotfl2: (much less an autograph). But then I didn't discover the Disboards until much later so not sure if there were any websites that give as much info back then as community boards do now (and the Disboards rock!)

:welcome:

I had no idea that the characters used to be so rare. I don't remember seeing as many when i went as a kid in the 80's, but back then you spent all your time standing in line, so who knows what i missed.

and you are more than right about the disboards rockin:cool1:

So cute! I am glad that she got to enjoy the magic! The little touches really can make the trip even more magical!

Tink and the Queen of Hearts! Great characters to meet!

Looking forward to reading about the Kim Possible mission.

We had really great timing with the characters thqat morning!

Chris and I were beyond estatic once we realized she truly still believes!



Thanks for almost getting me in trouble at work today! :lmao: I had to cover the front desk for my co-worker, and since it was slow, I decided to read a quick trip report on the boards. Yours looked interesting, so I started reading. I was hooked! When my co-worker returned, I was disappointed and tried to finish the reports at my desk, but almost got caught by my boss, so decided to save it for tonight! :rotfl2:
I just finished and am jonesing for more! You are a wonderful writer, just really illustrate everything so well. I feel like I was there on the trip with you! And your children are just adorable! I LOVE James' face and could just eat him up!! There were several of the pictures you posted that brought tears to my eyes because of the look of wonder on his face - and that mischievous grin! I love it! And Maya is just beautiful.
Anyways, subscribed so can't wait to read more! Thanks for posting!

:welcome:

You had me giggling about hiding from your boss. i can say with absolute certainty that you are not the only one guilty of that:rolleyes1

thank you for all the compliments on my children. i think you have them pegged. james doesn't really even try to hide the fact he is going to misbehave before he does it:rotfl:

i'm just so greatful that i've had the opportunity to take them when they are young enough to really feel the magic. i hope they always remember how special this trip was for them.

but just in case they don't, i'm writing this. i love to scrapbook but dont' get around to it much lately. i plan on printing this and putting it in a scrapbook.

thanks for reading along!!

[lbuzz52]

Thursday, May 12th cont.


Today was another hot day, so we stopped at Club Cool before heading to our first ride. I should have had my camera ready when we walked in. I told everyone to try the Beverly. The look of Maya's face was priceless! It should be in the dictionary under blaagghh! Chris called me a mean woman lol.

We had to sample the rest to get the taste out of our mouth. I really liked this one! I didn't write down what it tasted like, but it wasn't vegetable like. I do remember it as refreshing.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0487.jpg
The middle one


Chris grabbed a fp for soarin and then we were on our way to the Seas! Like everyone else, we had to had to stop for a couple pictures with our fishy friends.


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Nemo was a walk on. The length of the queue was appreciated because it was nice and cool in there. After our ride, we looked through the dump shop. I was hoping to find something "mine mine", because James is definitely in that stage right now.:rotfl: But all we could find were coffee cups and adult tee shirts.

James is also in a runner stage. He very rarely gets put down in public. He is heavy, so I usually strap him in a stroller or cart. We had borrowed a stuffed puppy leash in anticipation of this, and I figured the aquariums was a place it might be needed.

I was very correct. That boy is quick! I looked the other way once and he was off. So I leashed him. Well, he found this to be hilarious. He jumped to all fours and started crawling and barking. Finally, the novelty wore off and we explored the rest of the tanks.

We came to Bruce. The kids waited for their turn at a picture. When they were almost to the front of the line, I went around to take the picture. By the time I got there I heard screaming. I went back around to the line and Maya was trying to drag James by the leash.

"he won't go up for the picture momma".

Chris decided that would be the end of the leash. He didn't like the idea anyway. I thought that it should have just been the end of leaving Maya near the leash. But rather than argue, I just let him make the ruling. And then I let him deal with the chasing that followed through-out the week. :lmao:

Even with all the drama, we did get one blurry picture.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0493.jpg


It was almost time for Turtle Talk so we got in line. I love that they have the tanks up front to entertain you. The doors opened and Maya placed herself on the floor in the center of the front. Of course a second later the CM did rearranging to pack the kids in up there. Meanwhile Chris was taking James up to sit next to Maya, and there was no longer any room next to her. James sat in her lap.

At the same time, a second CM was yelling at me-

"go all the way down the row. Don't stop."

I tried to tell her I was waiting for my husband but she wasn't listening. So I just pretended I didn't understand her. :rotfl2: I was out of the way anyway.

The show started and it didn't take long for James to be scared by a noise. He came running back to us. Then he decided he was brave and went back to Maya. He did this a second time. And then the third time he came back Chris decided he needed to stay with us. James didn't like this, so Chris got up and took him out.

If you couldn't tell, some of my group was starting to get cranky so we grabbed some free water at a stand and munched in some chex mix. Meltdown averted!

We still had a little while before lunch, so I gave dh the option of taking the kids to innovations or getting soarin fp. He chose innovations. I have no idea what they did in there. I know Chris came out griping about James trying to run off just like he did in the seas.

We had some time but I was afraid it wouldn't be enough for test track x 2. We decided to slowly make our way towards our lunch reservation.

It wasn't long before I heard Maya say we must have pixie dust!

I asked her what she was talking about. She then pointed at a very short line for a very shaded Ariel! She was quite in character, referring to the kids as little angelfish. She was quite amused by the kooky pins.



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She was acting a bit shy for some reason.

She engaged James with talk of his clothing.

"do you like turtles? I have a turtle friend named Bob. He's a sailor".



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We continued on towards Canada. Chris immidiately asked to see Maya's autograph book. He flipped through it and said, "i knew it!" He then showed me this.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN2124.jpg


Whoops, looks like Ariel was confused as to her identity this day. This signature belongs to a different princess :lmao:

We saw a really cool playground right at the World Showcase entrance. I'm not sure if it was just put up for Flower and Garden? It was not there our last trip.

We still had a few minutes to spare so we stopped at Canada's funcot.


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I snapped a couple random pictures as we entered the area.


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http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0509.jpg


The kids got their Duffy on a stick and sat down to create a masterpiece. (ps- I know sharpie is the sponsor but I'm not crazy about giving my kids giant nonwashable markers. I had to bite my tongue. )


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0506.jpg


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0508.jpg


After a few minutes we decided to go ahead and check in. This heat couldn't stop me from trying the cheese soup!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Wow, Ariel out and about at Epcot, never seen that before!

[mikenburt]

Thanks for the detail in the report!

[lbuzz52]

Wow, Ariel out and about at Epcot, never seen that before!

I'm teling you, for the most part, we had really great luck (or timing) with characters. my kids were over the moon to see Ariel.



Thanks for the detail in the report!

thanks for reading:goodvibes

[LeeLee'sMom]

Wow, rarely see Ariel walking about, great timing:thumbsup2 I just love when that happens. I think we are going to get the cheese soup and bread "to go" when we are down there..if they still do "to go" :confused3

[lbuzz52]

Wow, rarely see Ariel walking about, great timing:thumbsup2 I just love when that happens. I think we are going to get the cheese soup and bread "to go" when we are down there..if they still do "to go" :confused3

I think you have a great idea with the to go pretzil bread and soup. i'm not sure what the rules are with that but i'd love to take some to go.

I'm glad my kids are still of character loving age. it woudl have been a shame to pass by some of the great ones we saw this trip:goodvibes

[PirateKate]

I was laughing so hard at James crawling and barking in his backpack leash! I bet he grows up to have a great sense of humor. :lmao:

What good luck running into the Queen of Hearts and Ariel. Those pictures turned out really nice.

Does James enjoy coloring Duffy on a stick or is he more just going along with it since Maya is doing it? I'm not sure at what age kids begin to be interested in Kidcot stuff. :confused3

[lbuzz52]

I was laughing so hard at James crawling and barking in his backpack leash! I bet he grows up to have a great sense of humor. :lmao:

What good luck running into the Queen of Hearts and Ariel. Those pictures turned out really nice.

Does James enjoy coloring Duffy on a stick or is he more just going along with it since Maya is doing it? I'm not sure at what age kids begin to be interested in Kidcot stuff. :confused3

He had me stiffling a laugh. Chris didn't think it was funny, and i didn't want to make him grumpy. but i thought it was so silly. we love to be goofy here, and i hope that he continues as he grows up.

As far as the Kidcot, I think that this particular instance was following the pack. He does absolutely everything Maya does, and activity books/ art projects are definitely included in that. If Maya was not involved and we walked past it, he probably wouldn't have noticed it. But i think if we had asked him if he wanted to color he would have said yes. He colors a good bit at Mother's Day Out, but doesn't ever really request to color at home. sorry, i know that's not really a direct answer

I think Carter would do fine with it if you needed a little stroller break for him.

[lbuzz52]

Thursday May 12th cont.

When we last left off we were on our way to lunch.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0512.jpg


We were quickly seated. Our friendly authentic Canadian server asked where we were from. Maya spouted our whole address- 4775...... Memphis TN. Our server was about to go on vacation to Nashville, so we chatted a bit about that before she got busy.

We were brought out breads- sourdough, grain, and pretzil. The pretzil was the definite favorite at the table and we asked for more. Perfect amount of salt flavor! The kids got the cheddar cheese soup for appetizer. Maya didn't care for hers. Fine by us- Chris and I both liked it. This may sound gross but we used it as a dip for the pretzil bread. Very tasty!



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Maya chose cheese pizza. We got a steak for James. We ordered the steak under Maya's meal plan and told her we would buy the (cheaper) pizza out of pocket. Chris ordered the strip, and I ordered the filet but changed the risotto to gratin potato. Medium rare was described as red center, juicy but not bloody. I ordered that, Chris rare, and James medium. We felt that the rare was cooked as the medium rare was described, etc. But it was fine as they were all still juicy and quite flavorful!

I did take pictures, but they came out even worse than these. so i'll give you some menu descriptions instead.

New York Strip Steak - with bercy butter, served with Gruyere-Yukon Gold potato gratin $31.99
Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon - with wild mushroom risotto, white truffle and herb butter sauce $26.99
Cheese Pizza - served with veggies and sliced apples $8.99

I mention the kids pizza, because it came with soup and no other sides.

For dessert we knew we wanted to try the chocolate mousse. We asked our server for suggestions for our other one. She said the smores were fun, so we tried those. The kids got make your own sundaes. We sampled them all.


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0521.jpg
blurry smores


When we were given the bill we saw that she had charged James' meal to our dining plan too. It wad mo big deal though. It would all equal out in the end.

After a quick restroom break we continued on through the World Showcase. First though, I needed a quick break. There was a DSA right next to the playground we had passed, so we decided the kids could run around there while I took my break. Chris and James don't smile for pictures, so I took advantage of the fact that no one knew I had my camera out.


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Chris got chewed out! apparently this playground is for kids only!


http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN0536.jpg
James made a little friend


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break time


They played for a good 20 minutes, and then we continued our walk of the World Showcase. We soon came across Mary Poppins. We had not seen her last trip. James ran up to her as soon as he had his book in hand.


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She was also quite in character. So polite and I loved the accent! "let's take a picture together, shall we"


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random view


We kept on walking the World Showcase. We didn't have much time, so we wanted to hit our two must do's first and then go from there with whatever time was left. Our next stop was Japan. Before our trip, we had given the kids each a giftcard with spending money for the trip. We also told them mommy and daddy would pick out one special thing to buy each of them. We stopped at Mitsukoshi's for Maya's. I paid for one pick a pearl ($16) and we all stood at the counter watching while I explained it to Maya. I told her that when it was her turn she should pick out the hairiest ugliest one she saw and there would be a special surprise in it.

We shopped around a bit while we waited for our turn. My nephew would love that shop. He's a huge fan of Bakugan and Mario. Maya picked our her first purchase of the trip- a small "lucky cat". She chose purple, which meant something like luck in artistry. $2.95.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n26/lbuzz52/2011%20Thurs%20May%2012th%20Epcot/DSCN1982.jpg


Soon Maya's number was called. I really hoped she would think this was as cool as I did.

[LeeLee'sMom]

You are making me hungry with the description of the food at Le Cellier's. Last year I wanted to do pick-a-pearl with Leah but we never quite got over to Japan..:confused3 This year it is on my list of must do's...but like you left off...I too wonder if Leah will be as excited as I am..:lmao: that little guy of yours just cracks me up. I remember having to sneak taking pictures too. Just recently she will actually look at the camera and smile or mostly make goofy faces. she is getting better though :worship:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Yum, Le Cellier. Nothing gross about dipping the breadsticks in the soup, in fact, it is encouraged!

[BellaBaby]

OMG! That picture of James handing the autograph book to Mary Poppins is so cute!!:cutie:

Like I said my DD7 would answer a question like "where are you from?" exactly the same as your DD. Too much information. right?!:rotfl:

[lbuzz52]

OMG! That picture of James handing the autograph book to Mary Poppins is so cute!!:cutie:

Like I said my DD7 would answer a question like "where are you from?" exactly the same as your DD. Too much information. right?!:rotfl:

by this day James definitely "got" the character thing!

Yes, too much information. we have had to really school her on things like that. She'd tell any random person our life schedule if they asked. not exactly a safe thing:lmao:

Yum, Le Cellier. Nothing gross about dipping the breadsticks in the soup, in fact, it is encouraged!

oh good, we were off in a corner and in the mindset that we didnt care who saw us. glad to hear it is welcomed because it sure is good like that!

You are making me hungry with the description of the food at Le Cellier's. Last year I wanted to do pick-a-pearl with Leah but we never quite got over to Japan..:confused3 This year it is on my list of must do's...but like you left off...I too wonder if Leah will be as excited as I am..:lmao: that little guy of yours just cracks me up. I remember having to sneak taking pictures too. Just recently she will actually look at the camera and smile or mostly make goofy faces. she is getting better though :worship:

like i mentioned before, i really liked the pretzil bread and soup. i do hope they have it available for to go next time we visit. while the steak was good, i'm spoiled by a chef who can definitely make a great steak. but the soup & bread combo is cravable!

Maya wants to pose for all her pictures now. now i have to beg for a normal picture again!

you should try pick a pearl!

[okw19]

All caught up and subbing! :)