What Do You Do With a Nine Pound Lemon?? LINK TO NEW TR! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-04-2011, 03:11 PM

Make lemonade, of course!!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/558.jpg

Hello and welcome to my fourth trip report!!

So what's with the title? The idea came about during a conversation on Living with the Land where I suggested we make margaritas when asked what you do with a nine pound lemon. Unfortunately, I don't think lemons are an ingredient in margaritas....but I'm getting ahead of myself! We'll get to that conversation eventually.

But I thought that quote was fitting because the nine pound lemon is sort of a metaphor for this trip. As Lou Mongello would say while trying to explain why the Main Street Bakery is on his list of Top Ten sounds in Walt Disney World, "Just go with me here!"

Much like a nine pound lemon being way to large to even know what to do with it all, as was this trip! Disney handed us a nine pound lemon of a trip and by god, we made some freaking lemonade! Or maybe a Grey Goose slushie would be more fitting....

If you read along in my PTR, you already know that this long weekend had the most action a Disney trip has ever had! (A disney trip of mine, anyway.) If you'd like to catch up, here it is!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2625653

(Links to my other TRs can be found in my signature!)

Normally it's just the two of us so, aside from going with both my family and Tom's family, we also had MNSSHP, first weekend of Food and Wine, the Halloween 5K AND the 40th anniversary.

This is probably the MOST excited I've ever been to tell you all about my trip. The pictures are amazing and we had such a fantastic time!

So who was on this amazing trip??

Nikki (that's me!)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0078.jpg

DH - Tom

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0088.jpg

My family - Mom, Dad, Sister, Niece, BIL
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0131.jpg

(We were only with them for a few hours one night so I just put a pic of us all together!)

Tom's brother Gary....(this pic was taken RIGHT after he sipped the Beverly! Wait until you see the picture taken a second later!!)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0244.jpg

Gary's wife Erin..... (indulging in a butterfinger cupcake...SPOILER ALERT!)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0049.jpg

(Here's a nicer picture of the two of them!)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0190.jpg

.... and their son Conor

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0042.jpg

I just can't WAIT to get started!!!!

disneybarbie

10-04-2011, 03:16 PM

I'm here Nikki! Can't wait to hear about the trip :goodvibes:

Emma princess: x

sstewart

10-04-2011, 03:26 PM

Can't wait to hear about it! I'm in!

Megablocks

10-04-2011, 03:28 PM

Yay!! Can't wait to hear about your trip!

chloe770

10-04-2011, 03:48 PM

here!

PrincessCharlie

10-04-2011, 03:55 PM

Love your ears, I've got the same pair! Can't wait to hear more.

anjalee6

10-04-2011, 04:30 PM

Sorry that I didn't see you around at any parks. Can't wait to hear how your experiences compared to ours. We had a wonderful time, but now I know why we don't do 5 day trips anymore. It's so short and we did miss just a few things, but that's ok. We had a blast and can't wait to go back again soon.

ronnmel

10-04-2011, 04:54 PM

I'm here! I'm here!

kate_wdw

10-04-2011, 05:19 PM

Joining in! I love your trip reports and I love MNSSHP, so I'm guessing that this trip report will be right up my alley :D

Tinkerbellie16

10-04-2011, 05:27 PM

SO EXCITED TO HEAR ABOUT IT!!! I'm in!

brookelizabeth

10-04-2011, 05:52 PM

I'm here!!!

brookelizabeth

10-04-2011, 05:55 PM

Saaaaaay, where did you get that awesome lanyard?! ;)

I love the pic of all of you at Biergarten!!!!!

Michelle2

10-04-2011, 05:58 PM

Love it! Can't wait to read more!!!

jenseib

10-04-2011, 06:08 PM

:thumbsup2

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-04-2011, 06:20 PM

I'm here Nikki! Can't wait to hear about the trip :goodvibes:

Emma princess: x

First one Emma! Alright!

Can't wait to hear about it! I'm in!

:banana:

Yay!! Can't wait to hear about your trip!

:thumbsup2

here!

Excellent!

Love your ears, I've got the same pair! Can't wait to hear more.

I bought them last year! A few people mistook them for bride ears because I got a few congratulations! :lmao:

Sorry that I didn't see you around at any parks. Can't wait to hear how your experiences compared to ours. We had a wonderful time, but now I know why we don't do 5 day trips anymore. It's so short and we did miss just a few things, but that's ok. We had a blast and can't wait to go back again soon.

:( Wish we would have run into each other.

I'm here! I'm here!

Woo Hoo!

Joining in! I love your trip reports and I love MNSSHP, so I'm guessing that this trip report will be right up my alley :D

So glad you are here!

SO EXCITED TO HEAR ABOUT IT!!! I'm in!

Yay!!!

I'm here!!!

Saaaaaay, where did you get that awesome lanyard?! ;)

I love the pic of all of you at Biergarten!!!!!

Brook, you don't even KNOW! At least once a day, one of us randomly said something to the effect of, "These lanyards are awesome!" They were so perfect! The best was I kept my photopass card in there and they were able to scan it right through the plastic so I didn't even have to take it out! Soooo easy!

Love it! Can't wait to read more!!!

:thumbsup2

:thumbsup2

:wave2:

Dream426

10-04-2011, 06:24 PM

Timon

10-04-2011, 06:46 PM

I'm in too :goodvibes popcorn::

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-04-2011, 08:08 PM

YAY!! I am here. We went to the Biergarten last summer for the first time and my husband was in love with the size of the mug...haha It was entertaining there also. We enjoyed. Love the picture of you all there. That cupcake looks amazing!!!

We love the Biergarten!! It is such a fun place and the beer is good! The food on the other hand...not so much.....but I'll get to that!

I'm in too :goodvibes popcorn::

Welcome, welcome!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-04-2011, 08:11 PM

Ahhh!!! I am just bursting to tell you all about this trip, I want to start RIGHT NOW!!!

But I really can't. Since we went with other people, there are a LOT of pictures that are on their cameras that I just must have before I start to ensure that this TR has ALL the best pics! So instead of taking to of everything, we decided to just share. The majority of the pics are coming from Erin and I will see her on Sunday so hopefully I will get them then. I also want to get a few from my mom.

PLUS, since we all went in a photopass cd, I'm waiting for everyone to be done editing, adding borders, etc so I can put in the order for that and who knows how long that will take to get here.......

dolfinjuls

10-04-2011, 09:00 PM

Yay! You started!!! I can't wait to hear about it, you sound so excited about it now!!!

ronnmel

10-04-2011, 09:07 PM

Mindy5767

10-04-2011, 10:14 PM

I'm here!popcorn:: We ate at Beirgarten back when we were newbies... and I don't even have a single picture, although I have lots of pictures of the sauerkraut at Somerfest. They have the BEST kraut!:thumbsup2 I can't wait to hear all about your trip and see all the pics. That will have to tide me over til at least March.:eek:

Tickanee

10-05-2011, 10:06 AM

Hi, Nikki!! I love all your trip reports, so I am signing on to this one. Can't wait!

BTW...you do use lemon juice in margaritas!!! Fresh lime, fresh lemon, agave nectar, triple sec and of course....TEQUILA with a splash of grand marnier! Shake, shake, shake! Awesome!!!

stephielela

10-05-2011, 02:16 PM

Nikki! Shame on you! Lemons are indeed used in margaritas! When you make your own sweet and sour, you squeeze lemons and limes. :goodvibes

Someday I hope to have a margarita with you in the WS... AEP anyone? :lmao:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-05-2011, 03:03 PM

Yay! You started!!! I can't wait to hear about it, you sound so excited about it now!!!

Haha!! I really am!

But I don't wanna be patient! :sad2: Just kidding, I will wait (im)patiently. :cutie:

It's so hard! I'm not very patient about it at all!

I'm here!popcorn:: We ate at Beirgarten back when we were newbies... and I don't even have a single picture, although I have lots of pictures of the sauerkraut at Somerfest. They have the BEST kraut!:thumbsup2 I can't wait to hear all about your trip and see all the pics. That will have to tide me over til at least March.:eek:

I don't really like kraut. I just love the inside of that place and the band is so much fun!

Hi, Nikki!! I love all your trip reports, so I am signing on to this one. Can't wait!

BTW...you do use lemon juice in margaritas!!! Fresh lime, fresh lemon, agave nectar, triple sec and of course....TEQUILA with a splash of grand marnier! Shake, shake, shake! Awesome!!!

Yay!! Thanks for joining in!

Nikki! Shame on you! Lemons are indeed used in margaritas! When you make your own sweet and sour, you squeeze lemons and limes. :goodvibes

Someday I hope to have a margarita with you in the WS... AEP anyone? :lmao:

For shame!! I am sooo disappointed in myself. Haha!

I would LOVE to share a 'rita with you!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-05-2011, 03:10 PM

Ahem! *cough* *cough*

Anyone notice anything different.......???????

:goodvibes

dolfinjuls

10-05-2011, 04:08 PM

No! I thought I did, but I was wrong! Did you add another ticker that I can't see??? haha

Tracy161

10-05-2011, 06:22 PM

OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!! I see another ticker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FILL US IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yay:

By the way... I'm obviously in for this one too! :rotfl:

chloe770

10-05-2011, 06:44 PM

Is somebody taking advantage of the new discounts just released today?

ronnmel

10-05-2011, 08:32 PM

Another trip?! So lucky!!!! Is it a week off from school? Oh how I'd love to go with no crowds, but we really only March break as a long vacation and obviously flights are ridiculously expensive.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-05-2011, 08:51 PM

Yes, yes!! You saw it correctly! (If you were able to see it....) That is indeed a new ticker! Just booked today so no time for the post-Disney blues!

As much as I LOVED this trip, it was so hectic and crazy. The new trip will be another long weekend but this time I am going to take 3 personal days off of work. Still 4 nights but we'll leave Wednesday morning (instead of night) so we'll get an extra day in.

I picked the dates, February 1 - 5, because of many reasons. First of all, it's usually the point in the winter where I am SO sick of being cold that I sometimes just burst into tears for no reason! I get seasonal depression BAD so a Disney trip is the perfect cure! Also, it's far enough after MLK weekend and far enough before President's weekend. I didn't want it near ANY holiday breaks or anything else that might cause families to take their children out of school. I'm really looking forward to a very different kind of trip. Low crowds, cooler weather (although I really like it hot so now sure about that) and just us again!

I booked the Wilderness Lodge with the AP rate. Only courtyard view was available but I'm not complaining!! As of now, I only put a hold on it so I have to put down the deposit and book flights (which look great right now!) so once it's all official, I'll start making ADRs!! We are already thinking about where we want to eat!

IheartDDuck

10-05-2011, 10:10 PM

I'm joining! Lurked on a lot of your other TR's, so I wanted to make sure I got in on this early!

Woo hoo, a new ticker! :woohoo: Nothing better than not having any post Disney blues!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-06-2011, 05:53 AM

I'm joining! Lurked on a lot of your other TR's, so I wanted to make sure I got in on this early!

Woo hoo, a new ticker! :woohoo: Nothing better than not having any post Disney blues!

Exactly right!!

So glad you joined in this time!

dolfinjuls

10-06-2011, 06:41 AM

Tickanee

10-06-2011, 07:25 AM

Yay for your new ticker!!!! We went this past May and have to wait again until next May...yuck! That's hard to do, especially since we went 3 times the previous year. Maybe I should do a long weekend? Hmmmmmm

dvc4life

10-06-2011, 07:47 AM

So excited to be reading another of your reports. Can't wait till you really get going on it.

And congrats on another trip already in the works. Don't ya just love having something to look forward to?

stephielela

10-06-2011, 09:13 AM

Yat for the new ticker!

Tinkerbellie16

10-06-2011, 10:37 AM

It helps so much to have another trip to plan for - it really keeps the Disney blues away. And it will be here before you know it! I'm the same way about the heat - I actually prefer it hot rather than cold but at least Florida isn't icy frozen like our states get and a nice 60/70 degree long weekend is PERFECT in Feb! YEAH!!!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-06-2011, 01:22 PM

Yay!!! I don't know why I can never see your tickers? I love the WL, I've never stayed there but I love being there. I think it will be great for a more relaxing time for the two of you! And I'm with you on those winter blues...sometimes I get so depressed! I hope this trip is the perfect fix for you!

I don't know! Maybe because my computer is wide-screen?

Yay for your new ticker!!!! We went this past May and have to wait again until next May...yuck! That's hard to do, especially since we went 3 times the previous year. Maybe I should do a long weekend? Hmmmmmm

It really is hard. This past trip was the first time we went since July 2010! :scared1: You should DEFINITELY do a long weekend! They are the best!

So excited to be reading another of your reports. Can't wait till you really get going on it.

And congrats on another trip already in the works. Don't ya just love having something to look forward to?

It's so fantastic to already be thinking about another trip!

Yat for the new ticker!

:cool1:

It helps so much to have another trip to plan for - it really keeps the Disney blues away. And it will be here before you know it! I'm the same way about the heat - I actually prefer it hot rather than cold but at least Florida isn't icy frozen like our states get and a nice 60/70 degree long weekend is PERFECT in Feb! YEAH!!!

It really helps so much! No time to be depressed!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-06-2011, 03:00 PM

anjalee6

10-06-2011, 06:28 PM

Dream426

10-07-2011, 05:27 AM

That is awesome you are going to be going again soon. It makes coming home from this trip a little easier knowing you will be going back.

stephielela

10-07-2011, 09:24 AM

Just made a bunch of ADRs for my February trip!!! Every single one I got exactly the time that I wanted and times were available 15 mins before and after! EXCEPT for Le Cellier! I really wanted to try the lunch menu and there is just nothing for the day we were looking. So we might try a new restaurant in Epcot. Maybe Italy.

Ahh! Should I start a new PTR? I can't believe I'll have a simultaneous TR AND PTR!!

Yes!!! Start a PTR!! Or you could add onto this one, but it won't be as fun :goodvibes Personally after my trip and TR I am going to start a "never ending PTR" because we have our dates for 2013, but I plan on having at least one mini trip before that, I just don't know when. Plus I don't know what I would do if I didn't have a PTR or TR to work on...

dolfinjuls

10-08-2011, 03:34 PM

I like the idea of a new PTR!!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-08-2011, 07:17 PM

I am already going through withdraw. My husband said he wants to try somewhere different for our 10 year anniversary so I don't know when we will go back.I guess I can't complain because we did June for 10 days and September for 5 buti still feel like I could go again. So happy for you that got what you wanted for ADRs. That is great.

Something different? You mean there is somewhere else to go on vacation?! :confused3

That is awesome you are going to be going again soon. It makes coming home from this trip a little easier knowing you will be going back.

Makes it sooooo much easier!! We are almost at 100 days already!

Yes!!! Start a PTR!! Or you could add onto this one, but it won't be as fun :goodvibes Personally after my trip and TR I am going to start a "never ending PTR" because we have our dates for 2013, but I plan on having at least one mini trip before that, I just don't know when. Plus I don't know what I would do if I didn't have a PTR or TR to work on...

I like the idea of a new PTR!!

Really? You think I should? I'm afraid that my PTRs are boring as it is and I don't know how much I'm going to have to say about this trip....might just add updates about the new trip here....

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-08-2011, 07:27 PM

So I'm still not quite ready to officially begin the TR but hopefully soon. I was at my parents' last night and I was able to get both their pics and my sister's pics. Tomorrow, we are going to Tom's brother's so I can get Erin's pics....then all I need is the photopass CD and we are good to GO! I'm thinking VERY soon!

And speaking of our trip to Gary and Erin's tomorrow, Tom decided he wanted to make something special to bring. Conor had been talking about riding Test Track with us for months and months and we had so much fun riding with him! It's his favorite ride, as I'm sure it is for most 5 year old boys.

So anyway, here is what we made to bring to them tomorrow!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSCF5124.jpg

Totally Tom's idea! I'm a little nervous because Erin is an actual baker and cake decorator. She's AWESOME at it and so creative! If anyone is the in eastern PA area and in need of cute baked good for parties or any occasion, seriously let me know so I can give you her contact info. Anyway, I'm hoping she'll think they're cute even though I'm sure she'll be thinking how much better she could have made them! Haha!

NEW TRIP:
So I think I'm just going to update my plans for the February trip on this TR since there isn't too much to say about it. We are about 115 days out! We took about 1/2 hour to decide on a tentative plan and sketch out some ADRs. On arrival day, we are going to try Hacienda. I got a 7:45 ADR hoping for a view of Illuminations. Day 2 we are going to try Raglan Road at DTD. The menu looks AWESOME! Day 3 we wanted Le Cellier lunch but couldn't get it so we'll keep trying or maybe leave it open and eat around the world! Day 4 we got breakfast ADR for Whispering Canyon cafe. The breakfast skillet looks soooo good! We had an ADR for it on a previous trip but canceled it the night before because we didn't want to be bothered getting to the WL. So since we're staying there, this is the perfect time to do it! We also got a late lunch ADR at Sci-Fi with plans for just do drinks and apps! Day 5 is open as we'll probably eat around the world that day too.

And finally, you should all be happy to know that I also started on a new VIDEO!!! Again, I can't do much until I have Erin's pics and the photopass pics but I've picked a song and did the opening and it's already SOOO awesome! (If I do say so myself... :goodvibes)

So that's my update for tonight. Hopefully we'll get started this week!!

kent285

10-08-2011, 09:21 PM

Those cupcakes look great! Conor will love them...trust me!

katiebelle21

10-08-2011, 10:06 PM

Joining in-your trip reports are always fun! Congrats on the new trip-it will be so nice to go when it is cool and not so crowded.

ronnmel

10-08-2011, 10:24 PM

The cupcakes look awesome!

lovegrumpy

10-08-2011, 10:30 PM

Those cupcakes look yummy. My ds was asking to make cupcakes so we might have to borrow your design.

Dream426

10-09-2011, 05:21 AM

The cupcakes look delicious. I love cupcakes. DH and I love Raglan Road. I get the beef stew every time we go and I love it. My mom got it also when we took the family last year and she really liked it as well.

Can't wait to see the video. Very creative. :)

anjalee6

10-09-2011, 07:28 AM

Cupcakes are so cute Nikki and I give Tom props for thinking of the idea. Really cute! Glad you are busy planning your next trip. After discussing things with my husband yesterday, we have planned another trip also. We are going in September again next year for our 10th anniversary. It's not until November but we can't get away then unless it's Thanksgiving and I am not braving the thanksgiving crowds so September it is. Can't wait to hear more about your plans.

merbobear

10-09-2011, 08:25 AM

Ooh I'm in! I have read your past TR's and can't wait to see what fun you had this time around!
I love the cupcakes, btw, I am sure that they were received with genuine enthusiasm...the point is not how professionally they are decorated, but the thought, time and creativity that went into them! :goodvibes

And...Lucky youuuu with a new ticker already! :worship: Can't wait for this TR to really get started!

stephielela

10-09-2011, 08:41 AM

Awww those cupcakes are adorable, and so cool that Tom thought of them. We don't usually give guys much credit do we?

Keep trying on the Le Cellier lunch, I bet something will open up!

I can't wait to see all the pics and your video!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-09-2011, 08:42 AM

Those cupcakes look great! Conor will love them...trust me!

Thanks!

Joining in-your trip reports are always fun! Congrats on the new trip-it will be so nice to go when it is cool and not so crowded.

I can't wait!

The cupcakes look awesome!

Thanks Mel! I'm sure they look even more awesome to you! Or are you not at that stage yet? :lmao:

Those cupcakes look yummy. My ds was asking to make cupcakes so we might have to borrow your design.

Yes! Definitely do it! I was actually surprised, I googled "test track cupcakes" and there was nothing! Would've thought it had been done before.

The cupcakes look delicious. I love cupcakes. DH and I love Raglan Road. I get the beef stew every time we go and I love it. My mom got it also when we took the family last year and she really liked it as well.

Can't wait to see the video. Very creative. :)

That is good to know! Thanks for the Raglan Road encouragement. It's always weird when we try some place new.

Cupcakes are so cute Nikki and I give Tom props for thinking of the idea. Really cute! Glad you are busy planning your next trip. After discussing things with my husband yesterday, we have planned another trip also. We are going in September again next year for our 10th anniversary. It's not until November but we can't get away then unless it's Thanksgiving and I am not braving the thanksgiving crowds so September it is. Can't wait to hear more about your plans.

Thanks!! Sooooo glad you planned your next trip too!! It helps so much, doesn't it?!

Ooh I'm in! I have read your past TR's and can't wait to see what fun you had this time around!
I love the cupcakes, btw, I am sure that they were received with genuine enthusiasm...the point is not how professionally they are decorated, but the thought, time and creativity that went into them! :goodvibes

And...Lucky youuuu with a new ticker already! :worship: Can't wait for this TR to really get started!

Thanks for joining in!

Nermel9

10-09-2011, 09:04 AM

I'm here! Can't wait to hear about your trip, and I'm SO jealous you're already planning your next trip! :rotfl: :banana:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-09-2011, 09:50 AM

I'm here! Can't wait to hear about your trip, and I'm SO jealous you're already planning your next trip! :rotfl: :banana:

You're back! Can't wait to hear about your trip too!

ronnmel

10-09-2011, 09:54 AM

Thanks Mel! I'm sure they look even more awesome to you! Or are you not at that stage yet? :lmao:

:laughing: No, not yet. But I've always loved cupcakes!

Tinkerbellie16

10-09-2011, 10:46 AM

The cupcakes are so cute! They are done really well but it really is the thought that counts. You thought about his favorite ride and did something special for him. So nice!

podsnel

10-09-2011, 06:46 PM

I'm late, but I'm subbed! Going back to catch up!:goodvibes

podsnel

10-09-2011, 08:18 PM

Congrats on booking another trip! And I loved your cupcakes- Timmy thought they looked great too! :goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 05:44 AM

:laughing: No, not yet. But I've always loved cupcakes!

:lmao:

The cupcakes are so cute! They are done really well but it really is the thought that counts. You thought about his favorite ride and did something special for him. So nice!

Thanks! He loved them! Although only half of one was eaten, everyone loved them! Hahaha!

I'm late, but I'm subbed! Going back to catch up!:goodvibes

Congrats on booking another trip! And I loved your cupcakes- Timmy thought they looked great too! :goodvibes

Hey Ellen! So glad you are here!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 05:47 AM

BTW, I LOVE my new camera!! Get ready for some amazing pictures!! For example, check out this pic I snapped on the way out of Epcot one night. Awesome right? I'll talk more about the camera in this TR and how I felt about it but here's one of my favs!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0193.jpg

Tracy161

10-10-2011, 05:53 AM

Oh my gosh! That picture is amazing!!!!!!!!!!! :goodvibes

Erin♥sDisney

10-10-2011, 06:51 AM

I adored the cupcakes. They looked so cool. Aside from the melting. Wouldn't be a Glinski party without it being oddly hot. Thank you so much for bringing them. Awesome idea, Tom!

ronnmel

10-10-2011, 09:22 AM

Gorgeous picture!!!

Megablocks

10-10-2011, 09:38 AM

That is such a great picture! It looks like it could be a poster!

disneybarbie

10-10-2011, 02:41 PM

Hi Nikki,

That photo of Spaceship Earth is fantastic! Looking forward to seeing more :goodvibes

Btw don't think I've commented since you announced your next trip... so excited for you! :cool1: February will be a great time to go.. countdown to the holidays now & then before you know it your WDW trip will be here :wizard:

Love your ADR choices for the February trip - we've been to Raglan Road a couple of times and really enjoy it, the service always seemed to be quite quick but it was a fun place to stay after eating and enjoy the live bands/dancers!

Emma princess: x

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 05:34 PM

Oh my gosh! That picture is amazing!!!!!!!!!!! :goodvibes

Right?! :lmao:

I adored the cupcakes. They looked so cool. Aside from the melting. Wouldn't be a Glinski party without it being oddly hot. Thank you so much for bringing them. Awesome idea, Tom!

They were sooo melty! Haha!

Gorgeous picture!!!

:goodvibes

That is such a great picture! It looks like it could be a poster!

Thanks!

Hi Nikki,

That photo of Spaceship Earth is fantastic! Looking forward to seeing more :goodvibes

Btw don't think I've commented since you announced your next trip... so excited for you! :cool1: February will be a great time to go.. countdown to the holidays now & then before you know it your WDW trip will be here :wizard:

Love your ADR choices for the February trip - we've been to Raglan Road a couple of times and really enjoy it, the service always seemed to be quite quick but it was a fun place to stay after eating and enjoy the live bands/dancers!

Emma princess: x

Exactly! So many reasons why it's the perfect time! Glad to hear you like Raglan Road. I am excited to try it and hope there is some good entertainment!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 05:41 PM

Guess what came in the mail today?! A package from Disney! On our last day, we went a little nutso in MouseGear and decided to ship it all home. Here's what arrived.....

Tom opening the box.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0794.jpg

Why did they put fragile stickers on the bag INSIDE the box?!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0796.jpg

What is it? What is it?!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0797.jpg

This is a puzzle! Love it! Can't wait to do it.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0798.jpg

Photo frame...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0799.jpg

40th ornament

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0802.jpg

Some t-shirts...one for me and one for Erin.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0806.jpg

A couple toppers in there too!

What's this?!?!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0803.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0807.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0808.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0809.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/DSC_0810.jpg

LOVE IT!!

kent285

10-10-2011, 06:50 PM

Love it...especially the wallet...too cute!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 06:51 PM

So I got an email that my photopass cd shipped on Sunday. So now that I have everyone else's photos, I've decided to officially start this TR tomorrow night!!

Get Ready! It's going to be craaaazy! :lmao:

ronnmel

10-10-2011, 07:31 PM

Love all the souvenirs, especially the PUZZLE! I bought the same one last summer. I actually just did it this weekend. And took a picture of the finished product of course. It's a great puzzle. :cloud9: I love that having to work on all the small pieces forces you to really look closely at the images and pay attention to details.

Hope your Photopass CD gets there quicker than mine. It's been two weeks since I ordered it! :headache:

podsnel

10-10-2011, 07:40 PM

I LOVE that wallet!! :worship: Soooo nice! I'm planning on purchasing another wristlet- just not sure which one yet.... That puzzle is great- I might have to get one of those for my game table, too!:goodvibes

I have a similar frame- but mine is 3 pics that hang on a chain.

How much was it to ship all that?

Really looking forward to you starting this TR!:yay::yay::yay:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 07:57 PM

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 07:58 PM

Love it...especially the wallet...too cute!

Thanks!!

Love all the souvenirs, especially the PUZZLE! I bought the same one last summer. I actually just did it this weekend. And took a picture of the finished product of course. It's a great puzzle. :cloud9: I love that having to work on all the small pieces forces you to really look closely at the images and pay attention to details.

Hope your Photopass CD gets there quicker than mine. It's been two weeks since I ordered it! :headache:

I can't wait to do the puzzle! Glad you had fun doing it. Ugh, two weeks, really?! Crap....

kcandbella

10-10-2011, 08:06 PM

Joining in! :goodvibes We were there the same weekend, so I'm interested to read about your experience. I ran the half that night, so I can't wait to hear about the 5K!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-10-2011, 08:12 PM

Joining in! :goodvibes We were there the same weekend, so I'm interested to read about your experience. I ran the half that night, so I can't wait to hear about the 5K!

Oh awesome! I would've loved to have "run" the half but aside from never having run that much in my life, it just didn't fit in the schedule. So glad to have been able to at least do the 5K. Going over to your TR now!

ronnmel

10-10-2011, 08:19 PM

I can't wait to do the puzzle! Glad you had fun doing it. Ugh, two weeks, really?! Crap....

Mine is international shipping and yours isn't, so I doubt you'll have to wait as long as I do.

hjd0411

10-10-2011, 08:31 PM

Hi Nikki - I have been a lurker on your other trip reports, but I just had to come out of hiding!! I love your enthusiasm - it is contagious!! Makes me feel like I'm there with you!! ;) :yay:

Looking forward to hearing about this trip, and your plans for the next one! You are so lucky to live so close - unfortunately 18 hours in a plane puts paid to going too often! :sad2:

I love your purchases, too! The photo frame looks great. Just what I would be looking for, I think!! Don't you love getting a parcel delivered - especially if it is from Disney! :love:

IheartDDuck

10-10-2011, 09:17 PM

Love all of the stuff that you got from Mousegears, especially the wallet! I am actually now the proud owner of the 40th anniversary cross body bag. :goodvibes

taymacsmom

10-11-2011, 09:26 AM

Hi Nikki:wave2: I was a lurker on your PTR and decided now was the time to come out of "lurkdom". Guess why!?! My sister and I were lined up at the 5K directly behind you and Erin!(Your pictures don't show how tall you actually are:thumbsup2):banana: I debated about saying hi to you but I felt a bit shy and didn't want to seem like a "stalker".:confused3 We actually ran right with you for a while but then I "lost" you guys in that massive crowd.:scared1: We had a great time at the run and I can't wait to hear about your trip. Maybe I will show up in some of your pictures.:lmao:

Can't wait for the rest and I promise to chime in from time to time.:idea:

Kelly

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-11-2011, 02:46 PM

Mine is international shipping and yours isn't, so I doubt you'll have to wait as long as I do.

Oh well that's a little bit of a relief! :lmao:

Hi Nikki - I have been a lurker on your other trip reports, but I just had to come out of hiding!! I love your enthusiasm - it is contagious!! Makes me feel like I'm there with you!! ;) :yay:

Looking forward to hearing about this trip, and your plans for the next one! You are so lucky to live so close - unfortunately 18 hours in a plane puts paid to going too often! :sad2:

I love your purchases, too! The photo frame looks great. Just what I would be looking for, I think!! Don't you love getting a parcel delivered - especially if it is from Disney! :love:

Sooooo glad you decided to post! 18 hours plane ride?! :scared1: That's insane! I could literally DRIVE to WDW in less time!

Love all of the stuff that you got from Mousegears, especially the wallet! I am actually now the proud owner of the 40th anniversary cross body bag. :goodvibes

Isn't the pattern awesome?! I have the Kristen tote and I love it!

Hi Nikki:wave2: I was a lurker on your PTR and decided now was the time to come out of "lurkdom". Guess why!?! My sister and I were lined up at the 5K directly behind you and Erin!(Your pictures don't show how tall you actually are:thumbsup2):banana: I debated about saying hi to you but I felt a bit shy and didn't want to seem like a "stalker".:confused3 We actually ran right with you for a while but then I "lost" you guys in that massive crowd.:scared1: We had a great time at the run and I can't wait to hear about your trip. Maybe I will show up in some of your pictures.:lmao:

Can't wait for the rest and I promise to chime in from time to time.:idea:

Kelly

Awww!!! I SOOO wish you would have said something!! It wouldn't have been the first time. I met around 6 or 7 DISers on my honeymoon and even met one in World Showcase on this trip. That's too bad. We could have gotten a picture! I have a lot of pics from the 5K so definitely be on the lookout for yourself!

Tracy161

10-11-2011, 06:11 PM

I LOVE your purchases!!!!!!!!!! And it makes it so exciting to still have a part of the vacation experience after you get home! YAY!!! So excited for the TR! :thumbsup2

kate_wdw

10-11-2011, 06:52 PM

Your photo of Spaceship Earth is gorgeous! What type of camera do you have?

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-11-2011, 06:53 PM

I LOVE your purchases!!!!!!!!!! And it makes it so exciting to still have a part of the vacation experience after you get home! YAY!!! So excited for the TR! :thumbsup2

Oh definitely!! We LOVE to ship home!

Your photo of Spaceship Earth is gorgeous! What type of camera do you have?

Thanks! We just bought it this summer...our first DSLR. It's a Nikon D3000.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-11-2011, 06:56 PM

I know I said I was going to start my TR tonight, but I've spent the last few hours working on itineraries and tips for two clients I have traveling next month! It's so much fun but very time consuming. I said to Tom, I can either work on our vacation video, start my TR or do client itineraries, what should I do? He said I should do the itineraries! So hopefully tomorrow!

jecskc

10-11-2011, 07:26 PM

anjalee6

10-11-2011, 09:18 PM

Awesome picture of Epcot. I definitely love seeing the ball at night. It's my absolute favorite park so it's hard not to love it! We finally did pick a pearl this last trip and it was such a fun time! Can't wait to have my kids fully appreciate world showcase.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 06:27 AM

I NEED that puzzle !! Along with the Thomas Kinkade one of Cinderella's castle. Can't wait for the TR to start !! I already started mine and when I get my photopass CD, I will just insert photos. You have so much more patience than me. Oh, and I love your videos !!

I am the most IMpatient person EVER! But fortunately, I have some other things to keep me busy, like working on the new video (yay!) and doing some trip planning for a few clients. I can't do much more with my video without my photopass cd either but I've got those first 8 seconds DOWN! :lmao:

Awesome picture of Epcot. I definitely love seeing the ball at night. It's my absolute favorite park so it's hard not to love it! We finally did pick a pearl this last trip and it was such a fun time! Can't wait to have my kids fully appreciate world showcase.

Thanks! Isn't it so beautiful? I feel the same way about Epcot. I have never done pick-a-pearl! Maybe I need to start making a list of things I must do on the next trip.

dvc4life

10-13-2011, 07:40 AM

Loved the cupcakes! How cute were they. Good Job!

And I loved your purchases. That wallet is really cute.

Now let the party begin! :banana:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 02:59 PM

Guess what came in the mail today?!?! Photopass CD!

Should begin sooooon!

stephielela

10-13-2011, 03:37 PM

Love love love all your purchases, ESPECIALLY the wallet! I realllllllllly want one, but I have resisted so far! Very responsible decision to work on the itineraries :goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 05:08 PM

Loved the cupcakes! How cute were they. Good Job!

And I loved your purchases. That wallet is really cute.

Now let the party begin! :banana:

Thanks! I'm still munching on the cupcakes even though Tom thinks we should've thrown them out by now! Ha!

Love love love all your purchases, ESPECIALLY the wallet! I realllllllllly want one, but I have resisted so far! Very responsible decision to work on the itineraries :goodvibes

Isn't the wallet awesome?! Yes, I got a lot of "work" done yesterday so I just spent about an hour working on my video and now it's time to start the TR!!!

chloe770

10-13-2011, 05:15 PM

Guess what came in the mail today?!?! Photopass CD!

Should begin sooooon!

whoo hoo!:banana: I really can't wait to see your race photos and 40th photos.

Dream426

10-13-2011, 05:40 PM

YAY!!! Can't wait!!! :goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 05:41 PM

Are you ready?!?!

As Rafiki says..."It is time..."

Wednesday September 28, 2011

Sooo, after working what seemed to be the looongest school day ever, I sped...I mean, drove responsibly, home where Tom was waiting with last minute packing questions for me! He wonders why I'm such a spaz-oid for days and even weeks before the trip but it's because I want to make sure I think of EVERYTHING and don't have to wait until the last minute. So after packing a few extra things, we grabbed our two stuffed carry-on bags and headed outside to wait for my good friend, Jill and her husband Jeff, along with their son Jeremy, to pick us up and take us to the airport.

(Those of you who followed my honeymoon TR, Jill was the one who helped me with my wedding centerpieces. She's such a good friend!)

So to my surprise, Jill, set up her car tvs to play a slideshow of her recent Disney trips and made us a make-shift Magical Express transfer! It was so great! The only problem was while Tom and I were oohing and aaahing over her pictures, she wanted to know what was going on on the screen! :lmao:

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0001.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0002.jpg

We got to the airport fairly quickly and we were sooo psyched that, since we printed our tickets and had no bags to check, we could head straight to security.

It's always so nerve-wracking to go through security but after waiting in maybe a 15 minute line, we were through in a flash and headed to the gate.

While we were waiting, we heard lots of conversation of people going to Disney and a few times we were silently praying we weren't sitting next to that family on the plane or that we don't run into this family in the Magic Kingdom. Since it was a holiday weekend, a lot of folks had the same idea as us.....late flight Wednesday to Sunday. Therefore, the plane was 4 seats overbooked!!! :scared1: They were offering people some incentives to switch to tomorrow morning but no way jose!! We bought those tickets over 10 months in advance!

So finally we were boarded and since we purchased our seats so far in advance, we had been somehow moved up to the second row in economy. After a little worry about our not having room for our bags in the overhead, we were settled....just in time for a flight attendant to come and ask us if we wouldn't mind moving into an exit row to accommodate a child. Instinctively, I said, "Sure, no problem!" Tom was not thrilled but who cares! We were on our way!

I was VERY worried about the plane being delayed because it had been a rainy day but after just a little wait for the runway to open up, we were off! There was a LOT of turbulence, probably the most I've ever experienced. It wasn't too too bad but I do get motion sickness so I wasn't able to read my magazine or do my logic puzzles because when my eyes are forced to focus during too much motion, it makes me feel yucky!

The one good thing about this flight was that it had individual tv screens so we played some games and I mostly tracked the progress of the flight. I tried to watch the movie Bridesmaids but I did NOT think it was funny AT ALL! And most people loved it! Same thing with The Hangover but I guess my comedic taste is a little different than most people's....my most recent favorite comedy is Forgetting Sarah Marshall. OMG, I die laughing every time I watch it!

Anyway....we land, wait wait wait and finally we are off! I was a little nervous about finding the rental car area because I had never done that before but it was soooo easy! Because I had checked in online, all we had to do was find the row of cars marked "compact" and pick the one we wanted! We chose a Hyundai and I have to say, I kind of loved it! Although I drive a GMC Envoy so aside from not really being able to see anything like I can in my SUV, it was a really nice car.

So all we had to do was stop at the gate on the way out and show my license. Super easy! Then we were off!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0004.jpg

I was super excited to be driving to Disney World! First time EVER since coming as an adult. Tom helped me follow the direction I had printed before we left. It was very easy and pretty direct.

Tom was also excited to get the perfect picture of the Walt Disney World arch as we drove up. But would you believe....it wasn't lit up! This was the best he could do...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0005.jpg

Now I don't know if it's never lit up or if it just wasn't that night but we were both pretty disappointed with that. However, we got over it very quickly and before we know it, we were pulling into Port Orleans Riverside!!

We parked in front of the lobby and waiting in a very short line. (Oh btw, it was around 10pm/10:30pm at this point...)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0007.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0009.jpg

I honestly don't remember who I was texting! Maybe Erin...they were in Epcot and I wanted to let them know we had arrived!

When I checked in, Tom went to find out what time the bar was open until. I was a little disappointed that he wasn't there with the camera because I paid for the balance of the room with maybe 12 gift cards! Not even exaggerating! The CM was so nice about it, as it most likely was a pain in the butt for her to do! But when she was done, she fanned them all out and that is when I wished the camera was handy!

She gave us our room number it was exactly the room we thought it would be......connecting rooms with Gary and Erin!! I think that's pretty cool that even though Gary and Erin arrived 2 days before us, they were still able to make it work so that our rooms could be connected.

So we drove over to the mansion section and parked in the lot in the back of Oak Manor. Our room was more towards the front of Oak Manor so there was a little bit of a walk.

A Mickey towel arrangement was there to welcome us!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0011.jpg

We pretty much just dropped our bags and headed back to the main building because Gary and Erin were on their way back and we were told to order Gary a beer! First we went to Fulton's General Store and bought two Coronas just in case Gary didnt' make it back before last call at the bar! They were crazy expensive, btw. A 6-pack was over $30!

Then we went and sat in the River Roost for a little while while Yehaa Bob performed. Of all the times I stayed at this resort, that was the first time I saw him. I have to say, for it being 11pm, he had a LOT of energy and everyone seemed to be really into it!

I was so exhausted by that point (after having worked a full day) but Tom was excited to have his first beer with his brother. When Erin texted to say the bus had pulled in, I was so excited, I ran outside to meet them when they got off the bus! It was a VERY happy reunion and Conor was so thrilled that we were finally there with them. There was much hugging and jumping up and down before heading back in to meet Tom at the bar. Erin and I sat with them for a few but then we headed back to the room with Conor while Tom and Gary ordered as many beers as they could before last call! :lmao:

I told Erin the gift card story and how I wished I had gotten a picture. Then I showed her how many gift cards I still had left so we decided I should just fan those out for her to get a picture!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4265.jpg

I got myself unpacked, turned on the sweet music of my facebook friend Stacey and fell fast asleep.....

I have to apologize for all the chatter and lack of pictures. Normally there are more visuals than words but you know how arrival day goes......trust me, there are TONS of pictures!

Halloweenqueen

10-13-2011, 06:02 PM

Yay...perfect timing on my part. Can't wait to hear about your trip! :thumbsup2

kathleen27

10-13-2011, 06:15 PM

I am joining in!

Love your friends idea for the photo show on the way to the airport!

I started walk/running this summer and plan to do the 5k when we are at Disney in Feb. I'm excited to hear about your experience and to see the photos!

Your Epcot photo is beautiful, looking forward to more!

Nermel9

10-13-2011, 06:29 PM

Great update! I love the slideshow your friend put together for you, what a cute idea! :thumbsup2

I LOVE Forgetting Sarah Marshall...in fact, I need to watch that again soon, it's been a couple of months since I've seen it! :laughing:

I can't believe the Disney arch isn't lit up at night! That's kind of disappointing...I could swear I have seen pics from other TR's where it is lit up!

Glad you got the connecting rooms you wanted, and $30 for a 6 pack of Corona??? :scared1:

kcandbella

10-13-2011, 06:45 PM

Wow your arrival day was a lot like mine! That is weird about the arch because we arrived very close to the same time (around 10) and it was lit when we went under it. Maybe we got there a little before and they turn it off at 10? :confused3 You would think it would be on later than that!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 06:59 PM

whoo hoo!:banana: I really can't wait to see your race photos and 40th photos.

Oh there's a lot! I can't wait to share them!

YAY!!! Can't wait!!! :goodvibes

:lmao:

Yay...perfect timing on my part. Can't wait to hear about your trip! :thumbsup2

:goodvibes

I am joining in!

Love your friends idea for the photo show on the way to the airport!

I started walk/running this summer and plan to do the 5k when we are at Disney in Feb. I'm excited to hear about your experience and to see the photos!

Your Epcot photo is beautiful, looking forward to more!

Wasn't that so cool of her?! You can definitely do the 5K. It was so casual and laid back. Even if you aren't up for running the whole thing, there were a lot of people just walking and having fun.

Great update! I love the slideshow your friend put together for you, what a cute idea! :thumbsup2

I LOVE Forgetting Sarah Marshall...in fact, I need to watch that again soon, it's been a couple of months since I've seen it! :laughing:

I can't believe the Disney arch isn't lit up at night! That's kind of disappointing...I could swear I have seen pics from other TR's where it is lit up!

Glad you got the connecting rooms you wanted, and $30 for a 6 pack of Corona??? :scared1:

I need to watch it again too. I even watch it when it's on FX and half the movie is cut out! :lmao:

Wow your arrival day was a lot like mine! That is weird about the arch because we arrived very close to the same time (around 10) and it was lit when we went under it. Maybe we got there a little before and they turn it off at 10? :confused3 You would think it would be on later than that!

No way! That is totally crazy. Why would they turn it off? You would think it would be left on all night.

ronnmel

10-13-2011, 07:16 PM

What a great idea to do a little Disney slideshow so you can have your own Magical Express!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-13-2011, 07:28 PM

What a great idea to do a little Disney slideshow so you can have your own Magical Express!

I know, right? She knew I was a little disappointed about not using the Magical Express service this time so it was really nice of her to do that for us!

IheartDDuck

10-13-2011, 07:33 PM

That is so cool that you had a mini magical express on the way to the airport!!!

It's strange that the entrance sign wasn't lit up. I thought it was lit up at night. :confused3

That is an exorbitant amount of gift cards! But it all pays the same, right?

dolfinjuls

10-13-2011, 09:17 PM

How sweet of your friend to do that for you guys! Sounds like everything went pretty smoothly for your arrival night, except for the bumpy flight of course! Can't wait to hear more!

merbobear

10-13-2011, 11:38 PM

That was so nice of your friend to make the Disney trip slide show to kick off your trip!:goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-14-2011, 05:28 AM

How sweet of your friend to do that for you guys! Sounds like everything went pretty smoothly for your arrival night, except for the bumpy flight of course! Can't wait to hear more!

That was so nice of your friend to make the Disney trip slide show to kick off your trip!:goodvibes

She's a big Disney fan too!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-14-2011, 05:29 AM

By the way, are my pictures too large??? I'm using photobucket this time (in the past I've used Shutterfly). It's really so much easier to post pics using photopbucket but the pictures just seem really big. Hard to see?

kent285

10-14-2011, 05:56 AM

They look great at my end...very "sharp" and perfect size. :thumbsup2

Dream426

10-14-2011, 05:59 AM

I don't think the pictures are too big either. Cute idea to have a Disney slideshow to kick off the trip. I need to get creative like that.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-14-2011, 06:12 AM

They look great at my end...very "sharp" and perfect size. :thumbsup2

The "sharp"ness is because my new camera is freaking awesome! Hahaha! Seriously, I knew I loved it but after going through these pictures so many times, I can't believe how great the quality is!

I don't think the pictures are too big either. Cute idea to have a Disney slideshow to kick off the trip. I need to get creative like that.

We were really surprised by it. It was a great start to the trip!

jenseib

10-14-2011, 09:58 AM

Yay! you are there! I can't wait to hear all about it! I love all the gift cards! :lmao:

Ahem! *cough* *cough*

Anyone notice anything different.......???????

:goodvibes

I can't see it either. Only people with widescreens can. I have the standard and it even cuts off part of your signature pictures.

By the way, are my pictures too large??? I'm using photobucket this time (in the past I've used Shutterfly). It's really so much easier to post pics using photopbucket but the pictures just seem really big. Hard to see?

They are for me. Again, I don't have the widescreen monitor, so I have to move the pictures around to see them ...along with being able to read it all. :laughing: But I can live with it......:rolleyes1.........like it mattered to you! :rotfl:

ronnmel

10-14-2011, 10:04 AM

I think the size is great (but then again, mine are the same size, so who would I be to complain. :laughing:)!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-14-2011, 02:50 PM

Yay! you are there! I can't wait to hear all about it! I love all the gift cards! :lmao:

I can't see it either. Only people with widescreens can. I have the standard and it even cuts off part of your signature pictures.

They are for me. Again, I don't have the widescreen monitor, so I have to move the pictures around to see them ...along with being able to read it all. :laughing: But I can live with it......:rolleyes1.........like it mattered to you! :rotfl:

Oh that's too bad. Yes it does matter! That's why I asked. I wonder if I should upload them to shutterfly and use that again. It really is so much easier to use photobucket but they make them so big! Is it really a pain to look at/read?

I think the size is great (but then again, mine are the same size, so who would I be to complain. :laughing:)!

:thumbsup2

J.ThaddeusToad

10-14-2011, 03:25 PM

Your friend Jill is awesome! We're driving to Disney next month and I may just have to make our car like the ME! Picture size seems fine to me :thumbsup2 Can't wait to read more!

jenseib

10-14-2011, 06:26 PM

Don't worry Nikki. A lot of people load them this size and I am used to it. If I use my laptop, I'm fine....but that is getting fixed right now.
I think thre is a way to set your upload size to photobucket...but I have no clue how. LOL:idea:

ronnmel

10-14-2011, 09:38 PM

I don't have a widescreen and can see them just fine. Have you tried looking into your user control panel Jenseib to see if you can view things differently?

disneybarbie

10-15-2011, 02:32 AM

Hi Nikki! Yay you've started! :goodvibes Looked like a good travel day.. I bet your day at work went soo slowly!:surfweb: ... loved the idea of the slide show that your friend made for you in the car, great to have someone you know who 'gets it' about WDW :wizard: hehe

Looking forward to more!

Emma princess: x

OhioDisneyLover

10-15-2011, 06:03 AM

I'm subbing. popcorn::

I can't wait to hear more about your trip.

Awesome amount of gift cards! :thumbsup2:goodvibes

Cool about February. We will be there at the same time. :wizard:

jenseib

10-15-2011, 06:35 AM

I don't have a widescreen and can see them just fine. Have you tried looking into your user control panel Jenseib to see if you can view things differently?

Hmmm, no, what would I look at there? I looked at my display and there is no way to change it to make it wider.

anjalee6

10-15-2011, 06:37 AM

Our trip down was delayed two times because of thunderstorms in the area so we didn't get in until after 10. We were supposed to get in at 8:00. Ugh! We were so annoyed. Our flight was a little bumpy too. Love the amount of gift cards you got. That is what I need to start doing. I want tons of gift cards too!

kate_wdw

10-15-2011, 08:30 AM

Oh definitely!! We LOVE to ship home!
Thanks! We just bought it this summer...our first DSLR. It's a Nikon D3000.

Thanks!

I'm psyched that your TR has begun!

stephielela

10-15-2011, 09:45 AM

Woo Hoo! Sounds like you were off to a great start! I love paying with gift cards, I have 4 for our trip so far, and I am hoping to get at least 1 more before we go, just not sure if I will have time! I like having everything prepaid as much as possible.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-15-2011, 09:50 AM

Your friend Jill is awesome! We're driving to Disney next month and I may just have to make our car like the ME! Picture size seems fine to me :thumbsup2 Can't wait to read more!

She's the best! It was a great way to get the trip started!

Don't worry Nikki. A lot of people load them this size and I am used to it. If I use my laptop, I'm fine....but that is getting fixed right now.
I think thre is a way to set your upload size to photobucket...but I have no clue how. LOL:idea:

Okay, thanks....don't want to be a pain with pictures since I LOVE pictures so much!

Hi Nikki! Yay you've started! :goodvibes Looked like a good travel day.. I bet your day at work went soo slowly!:surfweb: ... loved the idea of the slide show that your friend made for you in the car, great to have someone you know who 'gets it' about WDW :wizard: hehe

Looking forward to more!

Emma princess: x

Hey Emma! She totally "gets it." It's rare to find a true disney-loving friend!

I'm subbing. popcorn::

I can't wait to hear more about your trip.

Awesome amount of gift cards! :thumbsup2:goodvibes

Cool about February. We will be there at the same time. :wizard:

Oh cool! Maybe our paths will cross....

Our trip down was delayed two times because of thunderstorms in the area so we didn't get in until after 10. We were supposed to get in at 8:00. Ugh! We were so annoyed. Our flight was a little bumpy too. Love the amount of gift cards you got. That is what I need to start doing. I want tons of gift cards too!

Oh that stinks!! I would've been annoyed too.

Thanks!

I'm psyched that your TR has begun!

Thanks!! It's exciting, isn't it?! :lmao:

Woo Hoo! Sounds like you were off to a great start! I love paying with gift cards, I have 4 for our trip so far, and I am hoping to get at least 1 more before we go, just not sure if I will have time! I like having everything prepaid as much as possible.

Luckily, my mom gets me disney gift cards for EVERY occasion and since it had been over a year since our last trip, they really started to add up. Plus I got a few from my students, one from a credit card reward, etc. I really had SO many!

Tracy161

10-15-2011, 10:24 AM

Yay!!! You've started!!! :goodvibes Cannot wait to read more! :goodvibes

*and no, I don't think your pictures are too large at all!

knewton64

10-15-2011, 11:10 AM

popcorn::.

Can't wait 2 hear more.:goodvibes

T.T.F.N.

anjalee6

10-15-2011, 11:29 AM

Nikki,
You need to let me know how you drop hints to your students about Disney gift cards because I need to take lessons from you. I would love to get Disney gift cards from my students. :goodvibes

Stefy

10-15-2011, 11:41 AM

All caught up and not too far behind :teeth:

First off congrats on your Feb trip, so exciting that you have your next trip booked already :teeth:

The sign wasn't lit when we arrived which was such a bummer, as our driver said it normally is lit and I bet it looks really cool too :(

Looking forward to reading more popcorn::

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-15-2011, 11:44 AM

Yay!!! You've started!!! :goodvibes Cannot wait to read more! :goodvibes

*and no, I don't think your pictures are too large at all!

Great!! :cool1:

popcorn::.

Can't wait 2 hear more.:goodvibes

T.T.F.N.

Hey!! Welcome!

Nikki,
You need to let me know how you drop hints to your students about Disney gift cards because I need to take lessons from you. I would love to get Disney gift cards from my students. :goodvibes

Hahaha! Well, last year I just got a few American Express or bank gift cards from some students plus a class card with $100. I save all gift cards for DIsney, not just the DIsney ones but the problem is, if there isn't enough to cover the full amount, it won't just subtract what's left like it CAN do on Disney gift cards. That was kind of annoying! But my students/parents know how much I love Disney so in the past, I've definitely gotten Disney gift cards.

All caught up and not too far behind :teeth:

First off congrats on your Feb trip, so exciting that you have your next trip booked already :teeth:

The sign wasn't lit when we arrived which was such a bummer, as our driver said it normally is lit and I bet it looks really cool too :(

Looking forward to reading more popcorn::

Isn't it exciting?! So soon! I'm really bummed about it not being lit still!

Erin♥sDisney

10-15-2011, 11:49 AM

Wow! How awesome is Jill? She is THE best! That was too cool.

ronnmel

10-15-2011, 12:19 PM

Hmmm, no, what would I look at there? I looked at my display and there is no way to change it to make it wider.

I looked and the only thing I found that *might* work is when you are reading a thread at the top there is "Thread Tools" (where you can subscribe for example), maybe you could try the printer friendly version?

Otherwise I don't know, It's weird how everything looks fine on my laptop (about 15in), but not on your computer? I know what you are talking about, because I've seen it happen to me, but that was a long time ago.

Or maybe there'd be something in your internet options?

Sorry to hijack your thread Nikki!

PopArtGal

10-15-2011, 02:46 PM

omg!! I want the wallet!

PopArtGal

10-15-2011, 03:02 PM

Did you try Bridesmaid at home? I'm sad that you didn't like it. I loved it. Ok, it's gross in some places and I rarely like that. But it worked for this movie.

Maybe you were texting me?

jenseib

10-15-2011, 06:30 PM

omg!! I want the wallet!

I do too! :cool1:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-15-2011, 08:58 PM

Wow! How awesome is Jill? She is THE best! That was too cool.

She's awesome!

I looked and the only thing I found that *might* work is when you are reading a thread at the top there is "Thread Tools" (where you can subscribe for example), maybe you could try the printer friendly version?

Otherwise I don't know, It's weird how everything looks fine on my laptop (about 15in), but not on your computer? I know what you are talking about, because I've seen it happen to me, but that was a long time ago.

Or maybe there'd be something in your internet options?

Sorry to hijack your thread Nikki!

Oh no problem!

omg!! I want the wallet!

Haha!

Did you try Bridesmaid at home? I'm sad that you didn't like it. I loved it. Ok, it's gross in some places and I rarely like that. But it worked for this movie.

Maybe you were texting me?

I just didnt' think it was funny AT ALL. I gave it a good try and by the time they were at the engagement party and Kristen Wigg and the other girl kept trying to one-up each other with their speeches, I just couldn't take it anymore. I just thought it was so stupid and I couldn't stand to see them go at it the whole movie.

I do too! :cool1:

:lmao:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 09:30 AM

Day 2 - Thursday September 29, 2011

This morning, we were heading to DHS. We were not concerned with making rope drop so the plan was to meet outside at 8:30 and head to the bus. I set a wake-up call the night before for 7:30. When the phone rang, I quickly took a shower and woke Tom up. I feel like we have the same routine every single morning of our Disney trips, now that I think about it. I wake up, take a shower, get my stuff together, wake up Tom and tell him I'm going to get him coffee as incentive for him to wake up and take a shower while I'm gone! Haha! It seems to work for us!

I took some pictures of the resort on my way....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0012.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0013.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0014.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0015.jpg

Food Court!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0017.jpg

Oak Manor - I hadn't been in the mansion section in a LONG time. I always thought I would rather AB but it was nice.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0019.jpg

I took a few more pictures of this fountain, practicing playing with the shutter speed on my awesome, new camera! :)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0021.jpg

Pretty soon, it was 8:30 and everyone was ready to go!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4266.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4267.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0023.jpg

We LOVED having connecting rooms! Can you tell?! :lmao:

Off to the bus stop!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0024.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0025.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0026.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0027.jpg

To say I was excited, is quite an understatement!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4273.jpg

After going through the gates with our 1-day base tickets left over from the AWESOME "buy 4 nights, get 4 free" deal we had on our honeymoon, we headed directly to Guest Services to upgrade to Annual Passes!!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0028.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0029.jpg

The woman who was helping us was SOOOO nice! It took a little bit of time because, again, I paid with gift cards. This time I was only allowed 3 forms of payment so I had to use my BIG gift cards that I ordered just for this purpose!! Then there was a little error because the tickets were from July 2009 and when she printed the APs they automatically used THAT date so they expired July 2010! :scared1: She made it like it was no big deal and got it fixed right away. LOVED her! And then, as if she wasn't great enough, she dug her hand into a drawer and pulled out for us FIVE FPs that can be used at most any ride throughout the day! :rotfl: Super exciting right?? Except there was one problem. Look closely....do you see it?

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0034.jpg

It's not that it excludes Toy Story or the shows because frankly, I've done TSM once and I have no desire to do it again. I mean I would, but I' would much rather use my ticket for FPs on things like TOT and RNRC.

Since we prepaid for the photopass CD, we had to stop at EVERY one (haha!) so we stopped for our first professional pic. Erin had the BRILLIANT idea to put the photopass card right in our plastic lanyard card holder so that the card can be scanned RIGHT through the plastic without even taking it out! It was SOOOOOOO easy every time we stopped for a pic!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0176FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0177FourBySix.jpg

(continued in next post...)

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 09:56 AM

After stopping for a few pics, I'm got only one thing on my mind...the butterfinger cupcake!! If you remember from my PTR, this was a BIG part of the plan for this morning. I've been planning on having it for breakfast for months! But Tom is a really really big Star Wars fan and it was necessary that we headed STRAIGHT to Star Tours! Everyone was reeeally excited about, especially Tom! We only managed to snap one pic of the queue.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0037.jpg

It was really fun and we all enjoyed the updated version.

After that, I'm still thinking about that cupcake but time was ticking and we wanted to hit up the big 2 before the lines got too long. So again, I will wait....

On our way, Conor said he wanted popcorn and since it's vacation, why not?

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0038.jpg

Then Erin and I stopped to use the bathroom and I took my first picture on my OTHER camera!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5016.jpg

(I felt the need to mention this because doing this trip report is SOOOOO difficult! When I try to put the pics all together on photobucket, they aren't in order and I HAVE to have order so I have an album for the good camera, my small camera, Erin's pictures and photopass! It's not easy going back and forth between them all......)

Gary, Erin and I wanted to ride RNRC but Tom was all for skipping it so he stayed out with Conor while we went on.

I love the view of TOT from the RNRC line!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5017.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5018.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_1312.jpg

Erin was a little apprehensive, especially when you see the "limos" shoot out while waiting in line. But I was getting pumped!! Erin predicted what her ride photo face would look like and it was pretty accurate to her description!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5020.jpg

When we got off the ride, we found Tom and Conor waiting. Apparently they were filming some promos because they had families shouting, "WE LOVE WALT DISNEY WORLD!"

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0039.jpg

After trying to watch for a while, we headed to TOT! I was really pushy about Erin's riding this. She wasn't sure but I pretty much told her she's doing it! And in all honesty, she didn't put up TOO much of a fight!

So even thought the line said only 20-30 minutes, we decided now was as good a time as any to use those special, super-duper fast passes we got! We felt really proud and important as we walked up with FPs that no one else had. So we very excitedly hand them to the CM collecting the FPs and she looks for a minute before telling us we can't use them. Did you guess why??

Here is is again.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0034.jpg

It was for the wrong day!!!! I'm sure she did it by accident, but the FPs were for the following day and we certainly weren't going back. Oh well.....we got in the standby line with the rest of the unimportant losers!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_1313.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5022.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5023.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_1314.jpg

Pride!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5027.jpg

(Wow, I can't believe it's not even noon yet and I've used 2 posts just for one morning. Really we took so many pictures so I'm pretty much showing you the WHOLE day! I'll try to post more later. Like when will I get that cupcake!?!)

NMW

10-16-2011, 10:01 AM

Subscribing

disneybarbie

10-16-2011, 10:23 AM

what a great morning so far Nikki! :goodvibes

Your photos are fantastic btw - the colours are so clear in them :thumbsup2
I agree about photobucket.. I have photopass/Steve's DSLR/Steve's point & shoot and my point & shoot all in one 'album' which means lots of going back & forth through the pages to find the right pictures! :surfweb: hehe

That is odd about the fast passes.. I read it as 'use by 30th September' .. not that they're for the 30th only? :confused3
Great that the CM at guest relations gave them to you though, she could obviously tell you were all so excited to be there! :yay:

Can't wait for more,

Emma princess: x

ronnmel

10-16-2011, 10:30 AM

Hmmm, the FP says "expires" Friday 30, not "valid only" on Friday 30, so I wonder if it really was for the wrong day, or the TOT CM just read it wrong?

I too had two cameras for the trip and here is what I did to upload them in order. When you click on the "select photos" in photobucket, it opens a window. When you get to the folder in which your photos are in, you have several options : Name, date taken, size, rating... Click on "date taken". A little triangle/arrow will appear and it will arrange all your photos by date taken. If it puts the evening first and morning last, just click "date taken" again. The little triangle/arrow will point the other way and your pictures will now be in order. This only works if you have set the time on both your cameras. One of our cameras was about 20 minutes off, so I still have a few pictures not in order, but really not that many.

Hope this helps!

IheartDDuck

10-16-2011, 10:32 AM

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 11:05 AM

Subscribing

Welcome!

what a great morning so far Nikki! :goodvibes

Your photos are fantastic btw - the colours are so clear in them :thumbsup2
I agree about photobucket.. I have photopass/Steve's DSLR/Steve's point & shoot and my point & shoot all in one 'album' which means lots of going back & forth through the pages to find the right pictures! :surfweb: hehe

That is odd about the fast passes.. I read it as 'use by 30th September' .. not that they're for the 30th only? :confused3
Great that the CM at guest relations gave them to you though, she could obviously tell you were all so excited to be there! :yay:

Can't wait for more,

Emma princess: x

Wow, I didn't even think about that with the FPs! I bet you're right. The CM must have read it wrong.

Hmmm, the FP says "expires" Friday 30, not "valid only" on Friday 30, so I wonder if it really was for the wrong day, or the TOT CM just read it wrong?

I too had two cameras for the trip and here is what I did to upload them in order. When you click on the "select photos" in photobucket, it opens a window. When you get to the folder in which your photos are in, you have several options : Name, date taken, size, rating... Click on "date taken". A little triangle/arrow will appear and it will arrange all your photos by date taken. If it puts the evening first and morning last, just click "date taken" again. The little triangle/arrow will point the other way and your pictures will now be in order. This only works if you have set the time on both your cameras. One of our cameras was about 20 minutes off, so I still have a few pictures not in order, but really not that many.

Hope this helps!

I really think you're right. It definitely says "expires" so it should have been valid. Oh well! The wait wasn't too long and now we have them as a souvie!

Thanks for the tip about the photo organization but I did try that and it just wasn't right. The time must be off on the cameras because they weren't in order at all. :(

I can't wait to hear about the cupcake! It's on my list for sure.

Even though they ended up being for the wrong day, that's awesome that you were able to get FPs when you were upgrading your park tickets. Gotta love pixie dust.

I love Erin's face on RnRC! :lmao: At least she knew that her face was going to look that way.

Oh the cupcake is coming up next!!!!

merbobear

10-16-2011, 11:06 AM

Erin♥sDisney

10-16-2011, 11:11 AM

I knew that would be my face. I really only had it for the initial blast. I kept telling myself to open my eyes and look because I would regret it later. Thankfully I listened to myself.

Erin♥sDisney

10-16-2011, 11:14 AM

I can't wait to hear about the cupcake! It's on my list for sure.

Even though they ended up being for the wrong day, that's awesome that you were able to get FPs when you were upgrading your park tickets. Gotta love pixie dust.

I love Erin's face on RnRC! :lmao: At least she knew that her face was going to look that way.

I knew that would be my face. I really only had it for the initial blast. I kept telling myself to open my eyes and look because I would regret it later. Thankfully I listened to myself.

And Nikki's POR pics came out beautiful!!!

kcandbella

10-16-2011, 11:18 AM

Looks like a fun morning at DHS! Love all the pictures. Mmmm, Butterfinger cupcake...:thumbsup2

DisneyCrafter

10-16-2011, 12:48 PM

We were at DHS that day too but we didn't arrive until around 1230 or so b/c that was our arrival day. :)

I'm nearly positive the CM read those FPs wrong. We were given a "special" FP too and the date said Sep. 29 but we didn't use it until Oct. 1. :confused3 Oh well, at least the wait wasn't bad for TOT!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 02:41 PM

Ugh, I agree with you on the multiple cameras creating a hassle when you try to organize the photos later.
We have my Canon xsi, my Sony Cybershot, Mike's Sony Cybershot & then his iphone too...plus, the internal clock was off on my xsi when we went (actually, it probably still is!), so our pictures are all jumbled up!

Your morning looks awesome, although I am hoping you get to eat your cupcake soon, I love looking at pics of that thing! lol

It really is kind of a pain but I'll deal with it!

Yes, we had a wonderful morning. In fact, every moment of this trip was just so wonderful, it all happened in a flash, though!

I knew that would be my face. I really only had it for the initial blast. I kept telling myself to open my eyes and look because I would regret it later. Thankfully I listened to myself.

And Nikki's POR pics came out beautiful!!!

Wasn't it fun! I was so proud of you for that and TOT!

Looks like a fun morning at DHS! Love all the pictures. Mmmm, Butterfinger cupcake...:thumbsup2

Oh yeah...it's coming..... :thumbsup2

We were at DHS that day too but we didn't arrive until around 1230 or so b/c that was our arrival day. :)

I'm nearly positive the CM read those FPs wrong. We were given a "special" FP too and the date said Sep. 29 but we didn't use it until Oct. 1. :confused3 Oh well, at least the wait wasn't bad for TOT!

We were most likely on our way out by the time you got there. Yeah, I'm thinking the CM was totally wrong but oh well!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 03:07 PM

Moving right along........

Day 2 cont. September 29, 2011

So after a successful and very fun ride on TOT, we needed to find Tom and Conor because, for heaven's sake, it's TIME for that cupcake!!!

Turns out while we were riding, Tom took Conor too the Indiana Jones store and got some pics with the cars.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0041.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0042.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0043.jpg

Conor is a HUGE fan of cars, btw. OH! Luckily, they had caught Lights, Motors, Action a day or two earlier before we arrived so that was already crossed off the list of things to do at DHS.

So Gary, Erin and I walked down the street, stopping to take a few pictures.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_1315.jpg

This photopass photographer was great! He had us do all these silly poses.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0181FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0186FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0189FourBySix.jpg

When we got a hold of Tom, we agreed to meet at Starring Rolls! FINALLY!

OMG, that might be the most delicious looking treats in the smallest space EVER!!

Here are some of the treats we saw...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5028.jpg

Umm....woops! I guess that was the only picture I took. Really, it was so small and crammed in there, I just couldn't do it! Sorry folks!

OH, I feel the need to add a little sidebar! This day was Thursday. Well Sunday night, I got reeally really sick. I expected my stomach to still be off for a few days but even on Wednesday, I would still feel nauseous. So on arrival day, I had a tuna sandwich for lunch. I was so scared that I would get sick on the plane, all I had was maybe a handful or two of combos. NO DINNER! So now it's around 11am on Thursday, and my stomach is soooo empty. I was still scared about getting nauseous but I was determined to eat this cupcake! I was really worried about not being able to drink in Epcot either. Not that I'm such an alcoholic that I can't live without booze, because that's not me AT ALL but in my mind, Epcot and especially Food and Wine, was all about having a few drinks! Anyway, turns out, I was totally fine! Maybe this cupcake was my miracle cure!

So we get our cupcake and walk outside. And who do we happen to run into but a photopass photographer! I think he was "off-duty" but I practically tackled him so he agreed to take a picture of us with our cupcake!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0190FourBySix.jpg

Some other treats Gary and Erin got....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4294.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4295.jpg

And alas....the cupcake!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0044.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0046.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0048.jpg

I was very surprised to find that the frosting was actually covered with a hard chocolate shell so it was very difficult to eat. Erin had the right idea!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0049.jpg

Tom and I split it and we still weren't able to finish it. This is the "after" picture.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0050.jpg

I think we asked Conor what he wanted to do next and he suggest Great Movie Ride...so off we went! We spent a few minutes looking at the signatures and foot/hand prints outside.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4298.jpg

There was a bit of a line but not too bad.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4302.jpg

I absolutely LOVE the montage of all the movies at the end! So much so that I almost titled the TR "I love a good montage" because seriously, who doesn't love a good montage?! American Adventure is my favorite one!

After the ride through the movies, we headed over to meet Phineas and Ferb! I was super excited for this!

There was a pretty long line to see them. Maybe even the longest line we stood on the whole trip.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0062.jpg

While we waited on line, Gary took Conor to the Honey I Shrunk the Kids playground.

At one point, a CM came out and made some unclear announcement that made me think that P & F were going in and not coming back for an hour but I misunderstood. It was a good thing because for a good 2 minutes, I was ready to kick some you know what!

Finally, it was our turn!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0191FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0193FourBySix.jpg

I love this one!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0066.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0194FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0199FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0202FourBySix.jpg

This is when we also came up with a fantastic method for photopass pics. Tom and I would go in and do a pic with just us. Then Gary, Erin and Conor would jump in and we would get one with all of us. Then we would jump out so they could get one with just them.

(cont. in next post...)

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 03:21 PM

Be sure to check the last post on pg. 10 for the first part of this update!!

Cont. from previous post...

So after meeting Phineas and Ferb, we decided we were done with DHS and were ready to head to Epcot.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5032.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4321.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4322.jpg

Then Erin stepped in some gum...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5033.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5034.jpg

We passed by Star Tours on the way out and decided to ride one more time before leaving!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4283.jpg

We got a totally different ride from the first time and it was so great! The first time we went to the snowy planet, then underwater. This time we went to the .....oooh, what is Chewbacca again? (Tom would be so disappointed in me!) We went to the planet with all the Chewbacca-like creatures and then to the Death Star! Very fun!

We decided to take the boat to Epcot. Oh btw, it was HOT HOT HOT that day! I was fine because I think I'm part lizard or some other creature that thrives off of hot weather, but there were a few grumbles from all us.....

So even with the heat, Tom and I had the brilliant idea to get off at the Beach Club and walk the rest of the way.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5037.jpg

I thought the walk was nice but again, it was hot so I don't think everyone was thrilled. I was determined to make it to the back of Epcot before the boat got there so I did put a little hop in my step and I'm pretty sure we did beat it...or maybe arrived at the same time.

We took a quick bathroom break and then headed in through the International Gateway.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0078.jpg

I was so excited to see all the decorations up for the Food and Wine festival...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0079.jpg

...and I was even MORE excited to discover that, even though the Food and Wine Festival didn't officially open until the next day, some of the stands were open!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I quickly texted my sister (who was in the MK) to see where she was (we were meeting for dinner) and to give her the good news about F&W. Her response was simply, "Yesssss!" (They were leaving to go home the following day and wouldn't be able to hit F&W.

So let the fooding and wining begin!!!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-16-2011, 04:59 PM

A little video from outside the Great Movie Ride.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/th_100_0002.jpg (http://s1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/?action=view&current=100_0002.mp4)

Spartangirl

10-16-2011, 05:56 PM

IheartDDuck

10-16-2011, 07:14 PM

That cupcake just about made me pass out! I looks soooo good.....

Okay, I'm with you on the montage thing. You're right, who doesn't like a good montage? I know I love a good montage!

What luck that you guys got to Epcot and some of the booths were open. That's pretty awesome!

Tracy161

10-17-2011, 06:15 AM

GREAT update!!! And yes, who doesn't love a good montage?!?!? :rotfl:

That cupcake looks like a little piece of heaven! :cloud9:

Looks like you guys had a great time in DHS!!! Cannot wait to follow along for your fooding and wining!

PopArtGal

10-17-2011, 06:18 AM

Ok, I have to take a trip with you guys. hehe No one really wants to go that often. And I want to. And I want to have an AP hehe

I also put my photopass in the clear pouch. So convenient. And to think of it, my pouch is starting to rip. I'll need to buy a new one in July ;)

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-17-2011, 06:26 AM

Joining in, Nikki! :goodvibes

LOVE your use of all of the gift cards! :thumbsup2

And...you finally got your cupcake!!! :woohoo: I just love Starring Rolls!

Great start to your TR...can't wait for more!!!

Thanks for joining in!! Yes, I was so happy to finally get that cupcake!

That cupcake just about made me pass out! I looks soooo good.....

Okay, I'm with you on the montage thing. You're right, who doesn't like a good montage? I know I love a good montage!

What luck that you guys got to Epcot and some of the booths were open. That's pretty awesome!

So glad you agree about the montage! They always make me cry!

GREAT update!!! And yes, who doesn't love a good montage?!?!? :rotfl:

That cupcake looks like a little piece of heaven! :cloud9:

Looks like you guys had a great time in DHS!!! Cannot wait to follow along for your fooding and wining!

Haha! You agree too! Montages are the BEST! Get ready...because there is lots of fooding and wining in the future of this TR!

Ok, I have to take a trip with you guys. hehe No one really wants to go that often. And I want to. And I want to have an AP hehe

I also put my photopass in the clear pouch. So convenient. And to think of it, my pouch is starting to rip. I'll need to buy a new one in July ;)

That would be great! We move fast though so you'll have to keep up! :lmao: I can send you a plastic pouch. I bought a LOT of them and lanyards to give to clients and I ended up with more pouches than lanyards so I have some to spare. Maybe I'll finally get you that Duffy cd too!

Dream426

10-17-2011, 06:37 AM

jenseib

10-17-2011, 07:23 AM

That CM was wrong. Those were the same kind of fast passes they gave us for AEP. Thats the expiration date, so as long as you use them byu the end of that day you are good. Ours were good for the whole week...actually for a few days after we left too. At the end of AEP we haded off some of our FP's to other agents who were staying longer.

I really wanted to see Phineas and Ferb...but we just never had enough time.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-17-2011, 06:48 PM

Love your updates!! Those desserts and cupcake look AMAZING!! You got some really great pictures. That is great some booths were open so your sister could enjoy it before she left.

I have a camera question. I am looking into getting a camera like yours. Manly because my little camera doesn't take as good of pictures and I want it for when we take our daughter to Disney for the first time in 2-3 years (I know I have some time). I also want it to take nice pictures of her now but my big thing is for when we go to Disney World..haha Was it hard to carry such a big camera around? My brother told me they can break very easily (the lens inside is very fragile) so I am afraid now to get one and bring it on rides with us.

Well luckily, Tom carried it most of the time. The bag we have for it is pretty cumbersome (I think you can see from the pics) but he says it really wasn't a bother to carry. It was only bothersome when it was really crowded and people were hitting into it. More than carrying it, it was kind of a pain to go in and out of it when we wanted to take pics. Every once in a while, i would just take it out and carry the camera itself on my shoulder or around my neck, which would have been easier if it wasn't so hot! The extra weight around my neck in the extreme heat just made it seem hotter and heavier! As for going on rides, it wasn't really a problem at all. Tom kept the camera when we went on RNRC and TOT. The "worst" ride we took it on was Splash and we were a little concerned about it getting wet.

I say, go for it!

That CM was wrong. Those were the same kind of fast passes they gave us for AEP. Thats the expiration date, so as long as you use them byu the end of that day you are good. Ours were good for the whole week...actually for a few days after we left too. At the end of AEP we haded off some of our FP's to other agents who were staying longer.

I really wanted to see Phineas and Ferb...but we just never had enough time.

Grrr....that stinks that the CM read it wrong and that none of us realized it! Oh well...in the long run, it didn't really matter.

Well you had Phineas and Ferb with you the whole time so you didn't really need to stand in line to meet them..... ;)

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-17-2011, 07:07 PM

A pre-trip report update!

So I decided I'm just going to write about my February trip in this thread instead of making everyone follow me somewhere else. There will for SURE be a separate TR for it, though!

So we've got lots planned already and I'm really excited about it! This time, we're still doing 4 nights but we're leaving Wednesday MORNING instead of night so we'll really get in almost a full extra day.

Wednesday February 1, 2012

9:00am Land at MCO (yes you read that right! LANDING at 9am!!)
10:00am Check into Wilderness Lodge, drop bags at bell services (if room isn't ready
Boat to MK, do some MK things, lunch at Pecos Bill or Tortuga
Boat back to WL, relax, hang at resort, maybe get a drink

5:00pm Bus to Epcot
Lap around World Showcase!
7:45 ADR @ La Hacienda! (I am sooooo excited for this! When I was younger, I distinctly remember getting the Queso Fundido at San Angel Inn and was so disappointed when we ate there in 2006 and it was no longer on the menu. BUT I was THRILLED to see it BACK in Mexico at La Hacienda. I'm hoping it's a similar dish! I'm also hoping this ADR time will allow us to view Illuminations from the restaurant.)

Thursday February 2, 2012

8:00am Bus to AK, traditional cinnamon bun and frozen cappuccino (or hot coffee depending on the weather!) from Royal Anandapur Tea Co while we listen to the monkeys scream and watch the guests race by to get to Everest.
After breakfast, we're going to head straight to Conservation Station in hopes to catch some vet action! Then maybe do the Safari and walking trails, which I LOVE!
Hopefully, we'll hit up EE and Dinosaur, maybe Finding Nemo the Musical. We really have most of the day so we can take our time.

At some point, we'll go back to WL and get ready for the evening festivities which will take place at DTD!
5:00pm Bus to DTD, do a little walking around, shopping, etc.
7:00pm ADR @ Raglan Road - I'm hoping we'll have enough to keep us entertained and we'll spend the rest of the night here. If not, we might possibly head to Jellyrolls.

Friday February 3, 2012

8:00am Boat to MK, bang out most of Fantasyland first thing. Spend morning in MK.
12:00 bus to Epcot
Lap around World Showcase!
2:00 ADR @ Via Napoli - We just decided on this one last night after a week of trying for Le Cellier lunch. I'm actually very happy with this decision.
Rest of the evening in Epcot!! Dinner will be snackies around the world!!
Oh and Epcot has EMH that night. Bonus!

Saturday February 4, 2012

9:05 ADR @ Whispering Canyon Cafe - We had an ADR for a breakfast here last summer but canceled it because it is just too much of a pain to travel from resort to resort, especially for breakfast. But since we're staying at WL, this is the PERFECT time to do it! Breakfast skillet anyone? ME!!!

After breakfast, we'll head to DHS. There are a few must-dos on the agenda including the art of animation class, Beauty and the Beast show, maybe the Muppets? We usually get out of DHS fairly quickly so hopefully we'll hang around long enough to do the things we never get to do! Oh and One Man's Dream! I want to see that again....
3:00 ADR @ Sci-Fi - We've eaten lunch here a few times but THIS time, we're planning on JUST drinks and apps! YUM!

At some point, we'll head to the Magic Kingdom for the nighttime happenings! (Ooh, actually I better check that nighttime happenings are actually happening that night! I'm used to going in the summer when everything is ALWAYS happening! These park hours are SHOCKING to me!)

Sunday February 5, 2012

Departure day....guess where?!?!? Do I even have to say it? :goodvibes

I'm especially excited about the ADRs we chose this trip. The only repeat is Sci-Fi but we're not going for the burgers this time. Can't wait to try lots of apps! And we've eaten at WCC but not breakfast. Can't wait to try Hacienda for the aforementioned Queso Fundido and the Raglan Road menu looks AMAZING!! Finally, Via Napoli will be a great addition to our Epcot restuarant repertoire!

anjalee6

10-17-2011, 07:10 PM

We were there the same say so it is interesting to see how our touring plans matched up. I am really surprised we didn't see you at all while we were there because we did a lot of the same things as you. Glad you liked the new Star Tours. We went on it three times that day! My son loves it. He was so disappointed that we got there for rope drop and the Jedi Academy line was already so long. We got out of line when the CM announced that the next time slot was for 4:30. We knew we were heading to see La Nouba that night at DTD so that wasn't going to work. He was very disappointed. Have to do it next time. It was a really crowded day at HS compared to what I thought it would be. Can't wait to read more!

PopArtGal

10-17-2011, 07:32 PM

That would be really sweet.

Thanks girlie!

ronnmel

10-17-2011, 08:22 PM

Great plans! Good choice of ADR, especially Via Napoli. :thumbsup2

If you manage to hang around HS late enough, you should head to the Magic of Animation building around 5pm because that's when lots of random characters come out, with usually pretty short lines.

Hope you'll get better vet action than we did. 5 people around a teeny tiny rat ain't exactly exciting! :laughing:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-17-2011, 08:28 PM

That would be really sweet.

Thanks girlie!

You're welcome! BTW, I just put in the Duffy cd you sent me. Wow, it's sooo different from Rockferry! It's like a different person. Good though, just wasn't expecting it.

We were there the same say so it is interesting to see how our touring plans matched up. I am really surprised we didn't see you at all while we were there because we did a lot of the same things as you. Glad you liked the new Star Tours. We went on it three times that day! My son loves it. He was so disappointed that we got there for rope drop and the Jedi Academy line was already so long. We got out of line when the CM announced that the next time slot was for 4:30. We knew we were heading to see La Nouba that night at DTD so that wasn't going to work. He was very disappointed. Have to do it next time. It was a really crowded day at HS compared to what I thought it would be. Can't wait to read more!

Oh weird! Yeah, too bad we didn't run into each other. That's too bad about the Jedi Academy. I saw the loooong line going into that building when we walked by in the morning. I had no idea they did it that way now. I thought it was still just random picking out of the audience but I guess too many people complained that their kids didn't get picked so they wanted to make it more fair.

Great plans! Good choice of ADR, especially Via Napoli. :thumbsup2

If you manage to hang around HS late enough, you should head to the Magic of Animation building around 5pm because that's when lots of random characters come out, with usually pretty short lines.

Hope you'll get better vet action than we did. 5 people around a teeny tiny rat ain't exactly exciting! :laughing:

Oh thanks for the tip Mel! We might head there right after Sci-Fi then....but actually, I have to check what time MK is open until that night because if it's closing at 8, there won't be enough time to hang around DHS at 5 pm.

Dream426

10-18-2011, 06:33 AM

PopArtGal

10-18-2011, 06:57 AM

I have to admit it took me a while to like her new cd. But now I'm really into it.

dvc4life

10-18-2011, 07:45 AM

How lucky for your 6:00 am flight to be able to get to MCO by 9:00. When we get a 6:00 am flight we still don't get in to MCO until 12:30 or after. But then again we are coming from the center of the United States, not on the East Coast like you. Wish we could so change that.

Your dining plans look great! We have eaten at all of your choices and have enjoyed them all very much. Love La Hacienda! It was wonderful. Via Napoli, well, it is pretty expensive pizza IMHO. We will not be going back anytime soon. Raglan Road has been a hit and miss for us. But the atmosphere is great! WCC is lots of fun. And Sci-Fi, cool!

Your excitement is just bubbling over. You can really tell that you love your WDW trips. Have fun with the rest of the planning on your upcoming trip! :)

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-18-2011, 03:41 PM

We took a 6:00am flight once and it was the best thing we ever did. We had a full extra day there. I thought it would be very hard with no sleep but it wasn't. I guess because anything is possible when you go to Disney World. :goodvibes We were up at 3am and I was wide awake. I was thinking about it that morning it was so easy but you know I can never sleep the night before we go to Disney so I guess that is why it is so easy. You will be very happy you are taking an early flight. Our room was ready also when we got there so hopefully yours will be as well.

Yeah we usually take the earliest flight out when we go in the summers. It's really awesome!

I have to admit it took me a while to like her new cd. But now I'm really into it.

Oh good...I'll have to give it some time then!

How lucky for your 6:00 am flight to be able to get to MCO by 9:00. When we get a 6:00 am flight we still don't get in to MCO until 12:30 or after. But then again we are coming from the center of the United States, not on the East Coast like you. Wish we could so change that.

Your dining plans look great! We have eaten at all of your choices and have enjoyed them all very much. Love La Hacienda! It was wonderful. Via Napoli, well, it is pretty expensive pizza IMHO. We will not be going back anytime soon. Raglan Road has been a hit and miss for us. But the atmosphere is great! WCC is lots of fun. And Sci-Fi, cool!

Your excitement is just bubbling over. You can really tell that you love your WDW trips. Have fun with the rest of the planning on your upcoming trip! :)

Glad to hear your good reviews of the places we chose. I'm excited to try all the new places!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-18-2011, 03:42 PM

Guess what I just booked for my February trip............

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http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Fall%202011/dsc00897.jpg

disneybarbie

10-18-2011, 03:45 PM

SAFARI TREK!!

Sooo jealous!! Would love to do this tour on a future trip :goodvibes

ronnmel

10-18-2011, 03:47 PM

Ooooh, awesome!!

jenseib

10-18-2011, 03:48 PM

WooHoo!!!! :banana:

anjalee6

10-18-2011, 05:40 PM

That sounds like so much fun! When we went in September, one night the bus driver took us a back way home from Epcot to AKL and we went through the backlot of AK. It was so cool. They showed us where the animals sleep. The bus driver used to work at AK doing the safari and gave us all this background on AK. It was like our own private tour. We saw where they keep the safari vehicles. They were all parked in rows. It looked so funny. He showed us where the floats and things come out of, where the staff eats at AK. I didn't even realize the staff has their own cafeteria. It was cool! I love stuff like that. I can imagine the the Safari Trek will be awesome! :goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-18-2011, 05:46 PM

SAFARI TREK!!

Sooo jealous!! Would love to do this tour on a future trip :goodvibes

I'm so excited!!

Ooooh, awesome!!

Right?!

WooHoo!!!! :banana:

:cool1:

That sounds like so much fun! When we went in September, one night the bus driver took us a back way home from Epcot to AKL and we went through the backlot of AK. It was so cool. They showed us where the animals sleep. The bus driver used to work at AK doing the safari and gave us all this background on AK. It was like our own private tour. We saw where they keep the safari vehicles. They were all parked in rows. It looked so funny. He showed us where the floats and things come out of, where the staff eats at AK. I didn't even realize the staff has their own cafeteria. It was cool! I love stuff like that. I can imagine the the Safari Trek will be awesome! :goodvibes

That's reallly cool! There was another backstage tour but the description sounded kind of boring. I actually got to see A LOT of backstage AK on this past trip during the 5K. I'll post lots of pics, of course!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-18-2011, 07:14 PM

Now that I'm all excited about the plans for the our upcoming trip, I'm feeling like doing another post!!

Day 2 cont. Thursday September 29, 2011

So we last left off doing a terribly HOT boat ride from DHS to Beach Club and even even hotter walk through the International Gateway. But I have just entered my "happy place" so I am just thrilled!

We start off going clockwise, stopping first to take a picture with the UK phone booths.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4326.jpg

This was of particular significance because at one of our planning parties, we had a LOT of fun calling these phones and talking to unsuspecting guests of Epcot who really didn't believe us when we said we were in Pennsylvania!

We continued around and saw so many Food and Wine booths with looooong lines. The first one we stopped at was Hawaii.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5038.jpg

For a pork slider!!!! (Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour Dole Pineapple Chutney and Spicey Mayonnaise)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0080.jpg

How good does that look?!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0081.jpg

Tom and Erin each got one and I didn't THINK I wanted any but Tom gave me a bit and O. M. G! It was amazing! Funnily enough, that turned out to be the very first and very last Food and Wine Festival item we ate!

It's very possible that we took a turn into Future World at this point to get some FPs for Test Track then headed right back to World Showcase. We parted ways with Gary and Erin at this point because they had a late lunch ADR for Le Cellier. We weren't joining them because we had dinner with MY family at Biergarten for 6:50. So they went one way and we went the other.

Our first stop was, of course, Mexico! As we approached, I could practically hear the choir of angels and see the rays of sun shining on the Margarita stand! I ordered the mango margarita and as I was trying to lap up the overflowing melty drink and pay at the same time, the guy in line behind me announced, "Anything with mango...I'm getting it!" And as I was still trying my best not to lose any of the drink, he ignored the fact that I looked like an animal and asked, very enthusiastically, "Is it amazing?!" "Yes...it is amazing!"

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5040.jpg

With drink happily in hand, we moved on and stopped next at the F&W stand in China for Pork Pot Stickers and a Xinjiang Barbecue Chicken Stick. Both were sooooo delicious!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0082.jpg

We sat in the old smoking section in China, which is near the ponds. We tried to find some shady benches because it was reeeeeally hot.

After that we finished our food, we actually strolled through the China store just to cool off even for only a minute. Then we moved on.....

We stopped in Italy where we saw a photopass photographer right in the middle of the pavilion. We never saw one there before so we, of course, had to stop for a pic!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0206FourBySix.jpg

This photographer was really great! He took a lot of time with us and had us in different poses and stuff.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0210FourBySix.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0215FourBySix.jpg

In his words, "Anybody can take-a the pictures. I make-a the memories!" (He was, of course, Italian!)

We moved on, passing LOTS of stands on the way...but we really had to choose carefully because we DID have a dinner planned so we couldn't just eat everything!! (Not yet, anyway!)

Our next food stop was Morocco, where we tried the Kefta Pocket...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0085.jpg

.....the Harissa Chicken Roll.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0086.jpg

....and sangria!!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0087.jpg

The Chicken Roll was delish!! The pita pocket...not so much. The drink was really good too!!

Moving along the loop, Tom stopped next at the Ireland stand for the Bunratty Meade Honey Wine.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0088.jpg

He said it was pretty gross!!

At this point, we decided to just hang around that area and wait for Gary and Erin to be done with their lunch. We walked right through the Le Cellier arch and up to the restaurant. Tom took this as an opportunity to sit while I took it as an opportunity to test of the setting on my new camera!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0089.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0092.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0097.jpg

Pretty soon, they were out! We had jokingly asked them to steal us some pretzel bread while they were in there, and would you believe....they actually did!! That AND leftover steak which I somehow just sat there and devoured!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0102.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0104.jpg

Gary was full.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0105.jpg

We walked briefly over to the Off Kilter stage to see when they were playing and even though we were optimistic about being able to see them later, I kind of had a feeling that it wasn't going to happen.....and neither was something I had been reeeally looking forward to since we started planning this trip: seeing Taylor Dayne as part of the Eat to the Beat concert series. It just wasn't in the cards. My sister, Jamie, had texted at this point that they were on their way to Epcot and we had TT FPs to use, after which, we would be meeting up with my family.

Anyway, Tom stopped and got a beer somewhere in WS before we left to head to TT.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4339.jpg

I remember we had to chug that because we walked there faster than he was drinking it and we just wanted to get in line!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5044.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4341.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4342.jpg

This was very exciting for us because for the longest time, Conor had been talking about where we were all going to sit on Test Track. Mommy and Daddy in the back....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5045.jpg

And Conor sitting in between Aunt Nik and Uncle Tom in the front!

We decided on doing sad faces for this pose but Gary and Erin had a little surprise for us when we saw the picture!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0222FourBySix.jpg

Up Next: The Gang's All Here!!!

ronnmel

10-18-2011, 07:58 PM

IheartDDuck

10-18-2011, 10:44 PM

Mmmmm....you're killing me with those food pictures! I'm so excited for F&W.

Love the Test Track picture! I'm always trying to figure out new faces and weird things to do in ride photos.

PopArtGal

10-19-2011, 05:39 AM

what are Gary and Erin holding in the TT picture?

Dream426

10-19-2011, 05:44 AM

All the food and drinks look so good. I have never been there during the F&W festival. Will need to add this to my list of times I need to go to Disney World. Love all of you pictures again. That is a great camera and I am def. going to look into getting one now that you said it all worked out. Love the TT picture also. We always try to make silly faces on the rides. Makes it more fun.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-19-2011, 05:50 AM

What a great update! So much to comment on.

Ok, first, it's awesome that there was a photopass photographer in the middle of Italy. Your pictures are gorgeous! And I really love that swirly twinkly border. I didn't see that when I made my CD a month ago! I probably would have used it for everything...
The way you wrote is Italian accent is funny. :laughing:

I LOVE your second picture of the water in Canada. :lovestruc You need to remember that setting and use it a lot. :cutie:

What is it that they are holding in the TT pic? I should remember sad faces, I'm always looking for something new to do for those pictures.

Oh too bad you didn't see the swirly border! There were actually a few different ones like that.

Okay, Gary and Erin are holding their version of the yellow seat belt strap! Ya know, the one you have to pull on for the CM to check when you go around the first corner? For some reason, that strap became sort of a joke for us because (like many of you) we know to start pulling on it before we are asked too. :lmao:

Mmmmm....you're killing me with those food pictures! I'm so excited for F&W.

Love the Test Track picture! I'm always trying to figure out new faces and weird things to do in ride photos.

Oh there's PLENTY more food pictures! This was only preview night! Get ready!

what are Gary and Erin holding in the TT picture?

See what I wrote above to Mel. :thumbsup2

All the food and drinks look so good. I have never been there during the F&W festival. Will need to add this to my list of times I need to go to Disney World. Love all of you pictures again. That is a great camera and I am def. going to look into getting one now that you said it all worked out. Love the TT picture also. We always try to make silly faces on the rides. Makes it more fun.

Everything really was so good. I"m very weird about trying new foods so I didn't get TOO much but if it was chicken or beef, I would try it. No seafood or weird stuff!

Yes! Definitely look into getting the camera. The pictures are amazing, right? THat is something that is really important to us. Like the photopass photographer said, "We make-a the memories!"

Dream426

10-19-2011, 05:54 AM

Everything really was so good. I"m very weird about trying new foods so I didn't get TOO much but if it was chicken or beef, I would try it. No seafood or weird stuff!

Yes! Definitely look into getting the camera. The pictures are amazing, right? THat is something that is really important to us. Like the photopass photographer said, "We make-a the memories!"

Haha I am the same way. I will only have it if it is chicken or beef. I don't want any seafood or weird stuff either. I really should try more things but some things just skeeve me out....haha

dolfinjuls

10-19-2011, 08:50 AM

Love all of your updates!!! Good Test Track picture! And so exciting about the Africa Trek!!

stephielela

10-19-2011, 11:21 AM

Caught up! What an awesome time you guys were having!! I am so jealous of your F&W fun, but now that the DCL 2013 sailings are out, I can start planning... for 2 years out... and anywhere else people would think I am crazy :lmao:

J.ThaddeusToad

10-19-2011, 12:50 PM

Yay for Safari Trek! I'll be looking forward to your report about how it goes! Your plans for your next trip look great. We're going to Via Napoli for the first time next month and I'm so excited!

Your drinks look amazing and so does the food! And yay for pretzel bread! Now I'm starving! Remind me what your new camera is, pleeeease?!

jenseib

10-19-2011, 02:04 PM

The food looks good. I can't beleive how much you all ate and still were going to dinner yet. :rotfl2: I love it!

Nermel9

10-19-2011, 02:26 PM

Great updates, really enjoying your TR! I'm glad you got that Butterfinger cupcake, it looks so good!

The day you're writing about is 9/29 right? That's the day I'm doing in my TR too right now, I don't know if you've read my recent update yet, but I'm having a little different experience than you guys! :sad2: You got so much done at Epcot...us...not so much! You thrive in the heat, I almost die! :scared1:

I love your PP pics from Italy, and the Test Track one is awesome! :thumbsup2

Zuzu03

10-19-2011, 06:09 PM

Yay!!! Finally caught up after finding your latest TR!!!! So cool!!! And I LOVE your new camera! My DH got a new one last year too and we had an awesome time at Xmas in WDW taking pics! It's amazing how good those Nikons are!! AND so exciting that you're going BACK so soon! Awesomeness!!!!! Hahaha!

kcandbella

10-19-2011, 06:34 PM

Wow all that food looks so good! I wanted to try that pork slider but never got around to it. :sad2: I didn't actually have anything at F&W fest! :scared1: I'm glad you guys enjoyed it though.

Cute TT pic!

PopArtGal

10-19-2011, 06:50 PM

oh ok, I get it :)

Tracy161

10-19-2011, 07:31 PM

You guys seem to genuinely have the best time!!!!!!!!!!!! If you ever need a vacation buddy, let me know! :rotfl:

Great update!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup2

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-19-2011, 08:35 PM

Haha I am the same way. I will only have it if it is chicken or beef. I don't want any seafood or weird stuff either. I really should try more things but some things just skeeve me out....haha

Yes! That's funny. I am definitely not an adventurous eater!

Love all of your updates!!! Good Test Track picture! And so exciting about the Africa Trek!!

We are very excited about the Trek!!

Caught up! What an awesome time you guys were having!! I am so jealous of your F&W fun, but now that the DCL 2013 sailings are out, I can start planning... for 2 years out... and anywhere else people would think I am crazy :lmao:

Two years of planning sounds like fun!! :rotfl:

Yay for Safari Trek! I'll be looking forward to your report about how it goes! Your plans for your next trip look great. We're going to Via Napoli for the first time next month and I'm so excited!

Your drinks look amazing and so does the food! And yay for pretzel bread! Now I'm starving! Remind me what your new camera is, pleeeease?!

Oh there will DEFINITELY be a trip report including the Safari Trek!! Let me know how you like Via Napoli. The camera is the Nikon D3000. After a lot of research I found that was the "cheapest" DSLR and it got amazing reviews, most of them saying how this is the perfect "gateway" camera! I bought mine online at Best Buy with in-store pick-up. (It was cheaper than getting in in-store.)

The food looks good. I can't beleive how much you all ate and still were going to dinner yet. :rotfl2: I love it!

Haha! I know! Well, the only thing we ate all day was the cupcake and it was only around 2:00 when we were snacking. Dinner was closer to 7:00 so it wasn't too bad!

Great updates, really enjoying your TR! I'm glad you got that Butterfinger cupcake, it looks so good!

The day you're writing about is 9/29 right? That's the day I'm doing in my TR too right now, I don't know if you've read my recent update yet, but I'm having a little different experience than you guys! :sad2: You got so much done at Epcot...us...not so much! You thrive in the heat, I almost die! :scared1:

I love your PP pics from Italy, and the Test Track one is awesome! :thumbsup2

Just read your update. :( So sorry you weren't feeling well that night. Too bad we didn't run into each other! But yes, like you said....I'm okay in the heat.

Yay!!! Finally caught up after finding your latest TR!!!! So cool!!! And I LOVE your new camera! My DH got a new one last year too and we had an awesome time at Xmas in WDW taking pics! It's amazing how good those Nikons are!! AND so exciting that you're going BACK so soon! Awesomeness!!!!! Hahaha!

Glad you are all caught up! Buying that camera was the best "expensive" purchase we've made in a LONG time! No regrets at all!

Wow all that food looks so good! I wanted to try that pork slider but never got around to it. :sad2: I didn't actually have anything at F&W fest! :scared1: I'm glad you guys enjoyed it though.

Cute TT pic!

Oh no! No F&W food at all?! This was only the first day...there will be plenty more! ;)

oh ok, I get it :)

:thumbsup2

You guys seem to genuinely have the best time!!!!!!!!!!!! If you ever need a vacation buddy, let me know! :rotfl:

Great update!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup2

OH definitely! That would be fun!

tinkgurl

10-19-2011, 09:42 PM

I just got caught up! I didn't know you had started another TR!

Avery&Todd

10-20-2011, 08:21 AM

Newbie subbing here!!!! :thumbsup2

GREAT TR so far and I cant wait to hear what happens next!!

and just to get you a little more excited, our last 2 trips to WDW we stayed at WL - and the last one we arrived at like 10:15am..and guess what?? THE ROOM WAS READY!!

it was so awesome to get unpacked quickly and take the boat over to MK - we even had 12noon ADRs at The Plaza that we made with no problems!!

and I too will be taking a 6am flights to VEGAS in February - we'll get there just after 10am, and I cant wait for my "extra" day of sight seeing!!

those 6am flights ROCK!!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 05:31 PM

I just got caught up! I didn't know you had started another TR!

Oh I'm so glad you finally made it!!

Newbie subbing here!!!! :thumbsup2

GREAT TR so far and I cant wait to hear what happens next!!

and just to get you a little more excited, our last 2 trips to WDW we stayed at WL - and the last one we arrived at like 10:15am..and guess what?? THE ROOM WAS READY!!

it was so awesome to get unpacked quickly and take the boat over to MK - we even had 12noon ADRs at The Plaza that we made with no problems!!

and I too will be taking a 6am flights to VEGAS in February - we'll get there just after 10am, and I cant wait for my "extra" day of sight seeing!!

those 6am flights ROCK!!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:

Yes, 6am flights are the best! I would LOVE for our room to be ready! That would be awesome!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 05:45 PM

Day 2 September 29, 2011

Okay, so really this is our first day in the parks and we've done so much already!

Just to recap:
-AM in DHS where we rode Star Tours, TOT, RNRC, Great Movie Ride and met Phineas and Ferb. I also finally got my delicious butterfinger cupcake!
-PM scooted on over to Epcot to get some snackies around the World!

So at this point, we met back up with Gary and Erin after their meal at Le Cellier and rode Test Track. Just as we were looking around in the Test Track gift shop, I got a call from my sister to meet her at Spaceship Earth! So off we all went!!

It was a very happy reunion!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/117_117.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/116_116.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0106.jpg

We stood around and chatted for a few minutes and then got on the ride.

I turned around in my SE vehicle and was able to get a pic of my parents, my sister and Justin. Emma's on there somehwere too!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0107.jpg

Emma is usually pretty shy at first about taking to adults but she warmed up to Conor really fast! We had time for one more ride before our dinner. I suggested either Nemo or Journey into Imagination. I'm pretty sure Conor voted for Nemo but Emma insisted on "the imagination ride" and Conor obliged! I grabbed both their hands and we walked in that direction!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0116.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0117.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4362.jpg

At some point, I handed my sister the good camera and she started snapping. I love these pictures because we're (almost) all in it...except my sister. :(

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0121.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0122.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0123.jpg

At this point, Emma was telling Conor to be aware of the loud train part on the ride, to which Conor responded that he LOVES trains. Emma still insisted that he should just close his ears. :rotfl:

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0120.jpg

How cute are they?!?!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0124.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0125.jpg

PopArtGal

10-20-2011, 05:52 PM

Emma is such a cutie. I just want to hug her!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 05:52 PM

cont. from previous post....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4364.jpg

So we finally made it to the imagination ride and Justin decided to hit up the smoking section on that side of Future World. Tom and Gary didn't feel like riding so they hung around with Justin while the rest of us went on.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4365.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4366.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4367.jpg

After the ride, Emma and Conor spent some time playing!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5050.jpg

It was not easy dragging Emma out of the FUN room but it was time for us to make our way to Germany....

We parted ways with Gary Erin and Conor but assured Emma that we would see Conor again later.

When we finally made it to Beirgarten, we found a looooong line of people waiting to check in. And once we checked in, we had a little bit of a wait too.

Emma showed me her new parasol....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/127_127.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/126_126.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/125_125.jpg

Finally, we were seated. I have to say, we've eaten at the Biergarten 3 times now and the food is just NOT great! This time especially...the chicken was so tough, I could barely cut it with my knife!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0130.jpg

The drinks and entertainment were great, as always, though!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0129.jpg

And Emma enjoyed her pickles!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0128.jpg

When the music started, Emma did NOT like how loud it was.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0135.jpg

She was in kind of a funky mood so she moved her seat around a lot. At one point, she moved next to me and was showing me how she can spell her name! It was so cute!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/100_2331.jpg

I was really upset that while the musicians were playing the bells or whatever on the floor, some little kids were running aorund like it was a playground. A few times, the musician who was on the stage asked for the children to leave the floor so not to disturb the musicians who were playing but apparently, some people think their kids don't have to follow the rules. Reeeally pissed me off!

But once they called for people to come dance, I grabbed Emma and even though she seemed scared, I pretty much dragged her to the dance floor.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/100_2336.jpg

Zuzu03

10-20-2011, 05:53 PM

Oh my goodness! The pics of you and the little ones are adorable - so sweet!!!!!

jenseib

10-20-2011, 06:06 PM

what cuties. I have never eaten at Beirgartin...I hear mixed reviews...some love it while other say not so good. Is beer included?

archdandy

10-20-2011, 06:19 PM

Great report so far! We've never eaten at Biergarten before so I can't comment but my side of the family is German so that could have something to do with it. Why eat the same food I normally eat at home on vacation when there are soo many other good restaurants to try?! :lmao: It looks like you guys were all really having fun! Also I didn't know they had a Macaulay Culkin block outside of The Great Movie Ride! Me and DH are huge fans of his and now it's a must to get a picture of it on our next trip.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:23 PM

cont. from previous post..

So Emma was NOT happy about having been dragged to the dance floor so she took my hands and pushed me all the way backwards to our table.........and then proceeded to make her way BACK to the dance floor so she could go dance by herself! THE NERVE!!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Other%20Disney%202011/100_2337.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0139.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0142.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0146.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0154.jpg

Here's a video of her dancing...
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/th_100_0003-1.jpg (http://s1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/?action=view&current=100_0003-1.mp4)

Oh, forgot to post this. My dad with his HUGE beer!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0157.jpg

So after dinner, Emma said multiple times, "Conor will be right back!" Luckily for her, she was right! We met up with them just outside of Mexico for a spin on the Donald Ride!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4393.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5054.jpg

They very much enjoyed sitting next to each other on this ride and Emma pointed out two hidden mickeys for Conor to see!

It was time to say goodbye, so we got a few pictures before parting ways....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5060.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4398.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4396.jpg

This is my favorite picture! As many of you know, it's now my FB profile picture!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4397.jpg

And one more outside before they were off to the Seas with Nemo and Friends!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0161.jpg

We stayed RIGHT there in Mexico because it was almost time for Illuminations!!!

I headed to the margarita stand and got a lime margarita this time. Erin headed to the CS in Mexico to get a 'rita on the rocks and Tom and Gary each got a beer.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4400.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4399.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5063.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0164.jpg

We were just snapping pictures and enjoying being together. I was so happy, with people I love and in my favorite time and place...Epcot just before Illuminations. The torches were lit, the pre-Illuminations music was playing and I might have been crying a little!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4417.jpg

Photobomb!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4401.jpg

This is what the picture was SUPPOSED to be!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4402.jpg

Yes, Conor was still with us!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4419.jpg

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:24 PM

cont. from previous post.

Illuminations was amazing as always! The only disappointment was that the "voice" didnt' blow out the torches! Do you know what I mean? When the drums start beating and that voice comes and to tell us about what we are about to witness and he ends with "...Reflections of Earth" and then makes the blowing out noise, at which point the torches go out. For some reason, they did NOT. It wasn't a big deal and I"m sure most people wouldn't notice....but I am not "most people!"

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0178.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0181.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0186.jpg

As anyone who knows we would easily guess, when the show was over, we did NOT walk towards the exit like the rest of the crowd. We hung around in that spot for just a few minutes...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0190.jpg

....and walked the LONG way around!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4420.jpg

On the way out, I snapped this AWESOME picture of SE! LOVE my new camera!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0193.jpg

We had seats on the bus (because we didn't exit with the rest of the massive crowds) and we all enjoyed a little leftover Le Cellier pretzel bread on the way "home!"

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0195.jpg

So can you believe all of that was in ONE day!! And there's THREE more just like it...sometimes even busier, if you can believe!

Up next:Friday, the busiest day of all! Epcot Food and Wine, WWoS race expo to packet pick-up, 'Ohana AND MNSSHP!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:34 PM

Emma is such a cutie. I just want to hug her!

:goodvibes

Oh my goodness! The pics of you and the little ones are adorable - so sweet!!!!!

I was so happy to have them together! My only nephew and my only niece! (They are not related at all. Conor is from Tom's side...)

what cuties. I have never eaten at Beirgartin...I hear mixed reviews...some love it while other say not so good. Is beer included?

No beer is not included. It's really fun and has a great atmosphere but the food is not the best!

Great report so far! We've never eaten at Biergarten before so I can't comment but my side of the family is German so that could have something to do with it. Why eat the same food I normally eat at home on vacation when there are soo many other good restaurants to try?! :lmao: It looks like you guys were all really having fun! Also I didn't know they had a Macaulay Culkin block outside of The Great Movie Ride! Me and DH are huge fans of his and now it's a must to get a picture of it on our next trip.

We have a great German place by us so we can't help but compare and it is not even CLOSE! Oh that's so funny about the Culkin block! You have to find it next time! Haha

dvc4life

10-20-2011, 06:37 PM

Great update!

Your niece and nephew are adorable. Wish my kids were that little again to see such magic in their eyes.

But where did the margarita on the rocks come from again?????? I much prefer them on the rocks than frozen. Do they have the salt on the rim. Gotta have that salt! :rotfl: And I am starting in Mexico when we get there one week from today so it is on a need to know kinda thing. ;)

And I understand about the blowin out of the torches. It is just, such anticipation of what is to come when they do that. Love Illuminations. We were just looking at photos the other night when we were down there in 2000 and the parade that they did in EPCOT that year and we wish they would still do that. It was wonderful.

Your photos are EXCELLENT. Love the one of Space Ship Earth. Beautiful. Just beautiful.

Looks like you all had such a fun time. Am loving reading about it all.

Thanks!

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:38 PM

I somehow missed this picture of all of us at dinner!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0131.jpg

Seriously, while I was doing that update, I had FIVE photobucket windows open because of all the different albums I have! It's not easy!

Oh and I also wanted to mention, on top of missing Off Kilter and Taylor Swift, one thing I really wanted was to get a photopass picture of ALL of us: mom, dad, Sister Jamie, her Husband Justin, Emma, Gary, Erin, Conor, Tom and me. It just didn't work out. :( We were so rushed that night and actually, we were rushed like that the whole trip. Oh well.....

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:39 PM

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 06:55 PM

Just to compare, here's some pics from the last time I was in WDW with Emma....she's grown so much!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce28b3127ccef8065e92428c00000030O00QctnDFo2bsg e3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce26b3127ccef81bb62c752400000030O00QctnDFo2bsg e3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

Look at how she was just learning to walk!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce26b3127ccef81ae71594d100000030O00QctnDFo2bsg e3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

She was such a baby still...
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce26b3127ccef81af0dad48d00000030O00QctnDFo2bsg e3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

tinkgurl

10-20-2011, 08:45 PM

Whew! You made me tired just reading all that you guys did! Looks like you had a blast with the kids though. They are adorable. :goodvibes

hlrababy

10-20-2011, 08:58 PM

Ugh, Nikki!! I just now found your TR!! Going to catch up now girl! ;)

IheartDDuck

10-20-2011, 08:58 PM

Wow. You guys truly got a lot accomplished in one day!

The two kids are just so adorable. It's great that they got along so well. :goodvibes

Okay, the mega beer and the fun time really is the only reason to go to the Biergarten. :rotfl2:

I would have noticed too if the flames didn't blow out at the right time during Illuminations! You're right, we are definitely not like most people.

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-20-2011, 09:03 PM

Whew! You made me tired just reading all that you guys did! Looks like you had a blast with the kids though. They are adorable. :goodvibes

Aren't they? I love them!! It was so great having everyone together.

Ugh, Nikki!! I just now found your TR!! Going to catch up now girl! ;)

Yay!! I'm so glad you're here!! You've missed one full day but over a LOT of updates!!

Wow. You guys truly got a lot accomplished in one day!

The two kids are just so adorable. It's great that they got along so well. :goodvibes

Okay, the mega beer and the fun time really is the only reason to go to the Biergarten. :rotfl2:

I would have noticed too if the flames didn't blow out at the right time during Illuminations! You're right, we are definitely not like most people.

Yes, you hit the nail on the head about Biergarten. So glad I"m not the only one who would've noticed the torches! That's one of my favorite parts!

Megablocks

10-20-2011, 10:09 PM

Okay, finally caught up. I can't believe that was all just one full day! WOW!

The kids are so cute, I love that they got along so well :goodvibes

photographymom517

10-20-2011, 10:54 PM

WOW! Updating like a bandit ?! You weren't kidding! :lmao:

It took me awhile but I finally caught up!

It's nice to see so many of the girls from work here!!! :thumbsup2

I absolutely LOVED reading all of Day 1 -- I even cried at the end when you were with your entire family!!! Just seeing how happy all of you are & seeing the smiles on the kids faces really made it emotional! What wonderful memories at the best place on earth!!! :hug:

Wait until you read my TR -- its not until the 3rd day so it will be awhile before I get to it, but I missed out on sooooo much at DHS! So the entire time I was reading through your day, I kept adding things to my "I didn't do that" list! :sad2:

Honestly though, it was fun to see you enjoy all of the things we skipped! And of course, there's always next trip, right?! :laughing:

It was so much fun seeing the booths for Food & Wine when we were on our trip!!! I was actually really surprised because after seeing them, my DH asked me A LOT of questions about F&W -- gives me some hope for a future trip! ;) He even suggested that we may go for a 3 day trip during F&W in the future without the kids -- just the two of us! He normally doesn't like me leaving Luke with a babysitter for even a few hours, so this REALLY shocked me! But now I'm super excited!!!

I took a TON of pictures of the F&W booths with the intention of sharing them with you! Everytime I'd see a booth set up, I'd say "Oooooh I have to take a pic of that to share with Nikki before her trip!" But of course, our trip came & went and then you left on your trip before I even had my pictures uploaded onto my laptop! Can we just say "it's the thought that counts?" in this situation? Please?! :rolleyes1

Btw, I just put a note in my cell that says "Do NOT read Nikki's TR after dinner or right before bed" :lmao:

I have no idea what I'd even pick to eat or drink at Food & Wine. Everything you posted so far looks A-M-A-Z-I-N-G !!!!

I laughed when you said you practically tackled the PhotoPass photog!!! :laughing:

Port Orleans looks beautiful! I'm fairly certain that's where we're staying on our next trip and also where my parents are staying next November! Before they left on their trip, I tried talking them into taking the boat ride over to PO on their DTD day & they actually did it!!! My mom called me AND my dad text me right after they were there. I guess they both really liked it and so did Matthew! It's really hard to get all three of them on the same page, so I was impressed!!!

I think I had 5,000 other things to say about your update but I can't remember now -- so tomorrow I'll go through it all again & see what I missed!

Update a little slower for me, ok ??? J/k of course! But I couldn't resist!!!

hjd0411

10-20-2011, 11:00 PM

Wow - what a day!! You sure pack in a lot! How wonderful for you to be there with your extended family. Everyone looks like they enjoyed themselves! :)

Looking forward to the rest..!! :surfweb:

anjalee6

10-21-2011, 10:30 AM

Wow! And I thought our time downthere was busy. I can't get over how much you and your sister look like your mom anyhow much Tom looks like Gary. Crazy family resemblances! I love your comparison pictures from the last time you were there with Emma. Can't wait to read how your MNSSHP details match our thought.

stephielela

10-21-2011, 11:41 AM

A-MAZING!! I feel the exact same way about Illuminations BTW. Also, when I saw the pic of Emma writing her name, I yelled- "I have that pen!" Luckily no one was around to hear my nerdiness. Those pens are amazing though...

ARmom30

10-21-2011, 02:22 PM

I just read through all of your updates and now I'm tired! lol. I don't think I could keep up with you at WDW! Great report so far. Thanks for sharing with us!

disneybarbie

10-21-2011, 02:56 PM

Fabulous update Nikki!

I love all your photos - it must have been great to be in Disney with friends & family :goodvibes ... you got so much done in that day!

Hope you have a great weekend & looking forward to more :thumbsup2

Emma princess: x

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-22-2011, 07:02 AM

Okay, finally caught up. I can't believe that was all just one full day! WOW!

The kids are so cute, I love that they got along so well :goodvibes

Yeah it was really cute. They had met a couple of times before but I guess kids just really like having other kids around!

Glad you all all caught up!

WOW! Updating like a bandit ?! You weren't kidding! :lmao:

It took me awhile but I finally caught up!

It's nice to see so many of the girls from work here!!! :thumbsup2

I absolutely LOVED reading all of Day 1 -- I even cried at the end when you were with your entire family!!! Just seeing how happy all of you are & seeing the smiles on the kids faces really made it emotional! What wonderful memories at the best place on earth!!! :hug:

Wait until you read my TR -- its not until the 3rd day so it will be awhile before I get to it, but I missed out on sooooo much at DHS! So the entire time I was reading through your day, I kept adding things to my "I didn't do that" list! :sad2:

Honestly though, it was fun to see you enjoy all of the things we skipped! And of course, there's always next trip, right?! :laughing:

It was so much fun seeing the booths for Food & Wine when we were on our trip!!! I was actually really surprised because after seeing them, my DH asked me A LOT of questions about F&W -- gives me some hope for a future trip! ;) He even suggested that we may go for a 3 day trip during F&W in the future without the kids -- just the two of us! He normally doesn't like me leaving Luke with a babysitter for even a few hours, so this REALLY shocked me! But now I'm super excited!!!

I took a TON of pictures of the F&W booths with the intention of sharing them with you! Everytime I'd see a booth set up, I'd say "Oooooh I have to take a pic of that to share with Nikki before her trip!" But of course, our trip came & went and then you left on your trip before I even had my pictures uploaded onto my laptop! Can we just say "it's the thought that counts?" in this situation? Please?! :rolleyes1

Btw, I just put a note in my cell that says "Do NOT read Nikki's TR after dinner or right before bed" :lmao:

I have no idea what I'd even pick to eat or drink at Food & Wine. Everything you posted so far looks A-M-A-Z-I-N-G !!!!

I laughed when you said you practically tackled the PhotoPass photog!!! :laughing:

Port Orleans looks beautiful! I'm fairly certain that's where we're staying on our next trip and also where my parents are staying next November! Before they left on their trip, I tried talking them into taking the boat ride over to PO on their DTD day & they actually did it!!! My mom called me AND my dad text me right after they were there. I guess they both really liked it and so did Matthew! It's really hard to get all three of them on the same page, so I was impressed!!!

I think I had 5,000 other things to say about your update but I can't remember now -- so tomorrow I'll go through it all again & see what I missed!

Update a little slower for me, ok ??? J/k of course! But I couldn't resist!!!

That's so funny that you think we did so much more than you at DHS because we were seriously there for like 4 hours total! And most of the stuff we did, you couldn't do anyway!

That's so funny that you took all those pics of the F&W booths for me! Yes, it's the thought that counts! Thank you! And how awesome that DH wants to go for a long F&W weekend. That would be so awesome!!

Port Orleans really is a beautiful resort and by the time you go and stay there, the rooms will be all redone!

Wow - what a day!! You sure pack in a lot! How wonderful for you to be there with your extended family. Everyone looks like they enjoyed themselves! :)

Looking forward to the rest..!! :surfweb:

It really was a great day...and every day after was just as crazy!! :goodvibes

Wow! And I thought our time downthere was busy. I can't get over how much you and your sister look like your mom anyhow much Tom looks like Gary. Crazy family resemblances! I love your comparison pictures from the last time you were there with Emma. Can't wait to read how your MNSSHP details match our thought.

Family resemblances really are funny! My sister and I get asked if we're twins all the time and the older I get, the more I think I look like my mom!

A-MAZING!! I feel the exact same way about Illuminations BTW. Also, when I saw the pic of Emma writing her name, I yelled- "I have that pen!" Luckily no one was around to hear my nerdiness. Those pens are amazing though...

So glad you feel the same about Illuminations! That would be something that I will really be upset about if/when they change it. Aren't those pens awesome!? I have like 4 at work, it's my favorite! Writes so nicely.

I just read through all of your updates and now I'm tired! lol. I don't think I could keep up with you at WDW! Great report so far. Thanks for sharing with us!

Glad you caught up! I can definitely see how it made you tired...you should have been there! :lmao: We do normally zip around but it's never been THAT busy before. ;)

Fabulous update Nikki!

I love all your photos - it must have been great to be in Disney with friends & family :goodvibes ... you got so much done in that day!

Hope you have a great weekend & looking forward to more :thumbsup2

Emma princess: x

We got so much done that day and that wasn't even the busiest day of them all!! Just wait...... :lmao:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-22-2011, 09:11 AM

Day 3 ~ Friday September 30, 2011

Recap!
Arrived late on Wednesday night so just settled in.
First day, morning at DHS, afternoon/evening in Epcot for a little food and wine and meeting with my family!

Now it's the second full day!

So for those that didn't read my PTR or remember, there was a specific reason why we rented a car. Normally I am ALL about using Magical Express. I think it's awesome! But because the trip, and THIS day particularly, was sooo busy, a car was just necessary!

So that morning, we planned to meet Gary and Erin in Epcot, as they would be taking the bus and we would be driving. (They obviously couldn't take the car with us because we didn't have a car seat for Conor.)

After waking up and getting ready, I spotted these Hidden Mickeys on the bedspread so I had to snap a pic!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0196.jpg

And soon we were on our way!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0198.jpg

Tom was snapping away at all the "disney" signs! I love it!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0205.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0209.jpg

I LOVE how you don't need directions to get anywhere on property. No matter where you want to go, there will be signs! So we made it to Epcot fairly quickly, flashed Tom's AP to the nice lady at the parking gate and soon we were in!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0212.jpg

Now, I have to say......I LOVE LOVE LOVE how easy they make the parking at WDW. (I'm not sure how the other parks are but I'm assuming they are the same.)

They have lots of parking attendants there directly you into the exact spot they want you.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0214.jpg

There's no driving around looking for a spot. You follow the cars in front of you and each car pulls in, one after another, almost like a dance! It's so simple but I just found it amazing! One of those extra Disney touches that you don't find at Great Adventure (6 Flags, for those not from NJ!)

The walk from the lot up to Epcot is also really nice because you can actually SEE Spaceship Earth, which you really can't on the walk from the buses.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0215.jpg

(I'm sorry, I don't know why this picture isn't straightening out like I'm asking it to....)
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5064.jpg

Just in case you didn't know which way to go....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0216.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0217.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0218.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0219.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0220.jpg

Haha! We seriously take pictures of EVERYTHING!

We, of course, stopped for a photopass pic on the way in...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0260FourBySix.jpg

And then snapped a few pics of my beautiful Fountain of Nations. Love it!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0225.jpg

At this point, I was texting with Erin about where they were and what the plan was. They were in line on TT so we decided we'd just hang around a bit, meet up with them when they were done and then get FPs for Soarin.

Okay, this was SOOOOO cool! They had some guys from OceanSpray in an actual cranberry bog!! And they were talking to guests about how they collect the cranberries and stuff. It was all part of the Food and Wine festival.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0226.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0228.jpg

We got someone to take our picture together....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0230.jpg

And then caught some sort of "morning meeting" or something...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0231.jpg

At this point, Erin texted that they were STUCK on Test Track!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4436.jpg

So we made our way over there, hoping to meet them at the exit...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0233.jpg

As soon as they got off, they were not too pleased about having been stuck for a while and then going through the hairpin turns with no sound. That is especially disappointing because we LOVE to answer, "SURE AM!" when asked if we are "Seeing an increase in lateral forces!" So Erin says, "Follow me!" and we followed her as she marched over to a CM who was standing near the FP machine. She told them that we were ALL stuck on the ride and is there any way we can ride again?

No problem!! So we followed the CM in through the exit, through the room with the cars and into some back entrance! Had to take pics of that, of course!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0239.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4441.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0243.jpg

They got us on right away!! I kind of felt bad about getting a "free ride" but it all happened so fast and it was really cool to see "backstage" a little bit!

This time, Erin gave us ALL the yellow straps to pose with!! And even though we had a "hitchhiker" (as they would say at Sci-Fi Dine In) we were thrilled to see that he was fun and posed for the picture too!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0266FourBySix.jpg

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-22-2011, 09:31 AM

Cont. from previous post...

After our ride on TT, I was pretty adamant about getting FPs for Soarin'. So we made our way over there! Man, that climb up to the entrance of The Land is NOT fun, right?! I always forget how much of a pain that it, especially when it's super hot. So we all went downstairs and I offered to grab the tickets and jump in that Soarin' FP pool by myself but Erin came with me. Seriously, that FP area of Soarin is the WORST!! I am such a little detective with the FP lines, looking for who has stacks of FPs in their hands, who looks like they might have no idea how to do it so will therefore take a long time, who likes like they will be in and out quickly. I chose my line and Erin chose hers. If I'm remembering correctly, mine won! ;) So she quickly scooted over with her tickets.

After we got our FPs, we decided to right Living with the Land.

I really like this ride a lot, especially when you go into the greenhouses. We even saw some people working.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5071.jpg

As you read in the first post of this TR, we also saw the Nine-Pound Lemons!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4451.jpg

I must have had the festival on my mind, because, as I said, as soon as Erin asked what you would do with a nine-pound lemons, I practically shouted "MAKE MARGARITAS!"

Once we exited, I snapped a pic of Conor while his parents got the stroller...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Small%20Cam/DSCF5073.jpg

and it was just about 11am at this point so you KNOW where we were going!!!

FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL! WOOOO HOOOOO!! Even though we got a little sneak peak "taste" of it yesterday, today was official opening day!

So as we were walking, we passed Club Cool and shockingly learned that Gary and Erin had never been in it!! I thought for SURE they knew! So I said, "Oh we MUST go in! And be sure to try to soda from Italy...that one is the best."

I quickly whipped out my camera and was seriously giddy with excitement! I was elated to get the chance to capture a "Beverly face" on camera and they did not disappoint!

Gary went straight for the Beverly first. As soon as he swallowed, I took this picture...

Wait for it........
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0244.jpg

But Beverly is a tricky B! She takes a moment or two to sink in....so just a couple of seconds later........

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0245.jpg

I was seriously hysterical! Loving every second! Then, to my delight, he passed the cup to Erin!!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0246.jpg

C'mon!! Are those the best two Beverly faces you've ever seen or what?! I was so proud of myself!

Tom, on the other hand, was way more concerned with the cool saying on the chocolate bars....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0247.jpg

After tasting a few more sodas and trying to get the beverly tastes out of their mouths, we exited Club Cool and made our way to World Showcase! (Or as I like to refer to it, heaven on earth!)

stephielela

10-22-2011, 09:41 AM

anjalee6

10-22-2011, 09:42 AM

That is my FAVORITE candy box at Disney. We got a box with left over snack credit in June and I saved the box. What I will do with it, I don't know, but I had to have the box more than the candy inside! :goodvibes

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-22-2011, 09:59 AM

cont. from previous post....

Our first stop this time was Argentina, where we got.....

Grilled Beef Skewer with Chimichurri Sauce and Boniato Puree
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0249.jpg

and the Beef Empanada
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0250.jpg

They were both pretty good but we didn't want to fill up so I made sure to just have a few bites of each. We have a cajun/southwest/mexican place by us that has an AWESOME chimichurri steak so it was hard not to compare but still, it was good!

Then it was time for.......

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0251.jpg

I went for the mango again this time. If you remember, I had the lime last night and I feel like I"m just more of a mango 'rita kind of girl now! Who would've thought!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0255.jpg

Tom got a strawberry and Erin went back to the Mexican counter service to get her 'rita on the rocks and a Dos Equis for Gary!

and we were all very happy!
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/th_100_0005.jpg (http://s1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/?action=view&current=100_0005.mp4)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4459.jpg

And yes...Conor was still there.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0256.jpg

Luckily, he has his mom's iphone to keep him busy and used a little teamwork so they could both have their drinks and push the stroller!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/100_0006.jpg

(Side-note! I don't want you to get the wrong idea. Gary and Erin are not at ALL the kid of parents to give their kid an electronic device to keep him busy while they go out drinking...even though that seems like exactly what they did at this point. The rest of the trip was ALL about making sure Conor was having a good time but it was a very special, out-of-the-ordinary occasion and for an hour or so, this would occupy him so the adults could have a little fun too. AND I'm positive they only had about one or two drinks each. )

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4460.jpg

After getting all of our drinks, the next stop was Scandinavia!! There, we got...

Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberries

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0257.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/100_0007.jpg

I might have had just a bite or two....or maybe none at all, I don't really remember. I was more interested in quickly slurping down my 'rita so we could go on the Maelstrom!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0259.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4464.jpg

I pointed out the viking wearing Mickey Ears to Erin and Gary!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4465.jpg

The ride was great, as always, and I was happily surprised to see that the doors into the theater were open, even though the movie was playing. I feel bad that I've never stopped to watch the short movie, and maybe I will eventually, but it really was a pain to sit and wait for the doors to open, especially when your boat is pulling up and you JUST miss it!

Have to take the troll pic...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4466.jpg

...and then back out onto the "promenade" for my of the festival!

We came around the corner to two stands were were NOT passing up: "Brewer's Collection" and "Cheese."

Gary and Erin first got a cheese sample...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Erins%20WDW%20pics/IMG_4467.jpg

And Tom and I went to the Brewer's Collection, where we couldn't decide between flight #1 or flight #2...so we got both!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0261.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0263.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0264.jpg

Just as I was deciding which of the 6 beers I wanted to try first, someone got my attention and asked if I was Nikki and that she was a lurker on my TRs! I was sooooo excited to run into a DISer! I was feeling the drinks a little bit at this point so I apologize if I attacked you a little and I especially apologized that I don't remember your name, even though I know you told me what it was! I, of course, insisted we get a picture!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0265.jpg

And if you are reading, please post and say hello! It was so nice to meet you, really!

Then the beer drinking commenced!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0266.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0267.jpg

Between the 3 of us (minus Erin) we finished the beers fairly quickly! And got the Nuernberger Sausage in a Pretzel Roll from Germany to soak up some of the alcohol!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0269.jpg

How good does that look?!??!

After this lovely stop, Erin checked the map to see where to go next.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0271.jpg

archdandy

10-22-2011, 11:33 AM

Great update! I think it's just awesome that you were recognized from being on the DIS and hilarious at the same time! I hope the woman comes and comments on the report. :rotfl:

Erin♥sDisney

10-22-2011, 11:58 AM

I am just loving going back to this trip!:yay: We had so much fun. And don't lie. We gave Conor my phone, left him with some castmember and got completely drunk! Ha ha ha ha ha! I'm so kidding. He got the phone because World Showcase is a little boring to a kid just getting pushed around in a stroller.
And I adore the pics of Emma and Conor. They were just so cute together. Like old friends.
And you're still not forgiven for the Beverly. "OMG! You gotta try the Beverly from Italy! It's so good!" Nikki still can't be trusted. :laughing:
I CANNOT wait to take our tiny little trip. 49 days!!!!!

disneybarbie

10-22-2011, 12:11 PM

great update ... your photos are making me want to be in World Showcase right now :cloud9:That was great about Test Track.. excellent service from the Cast Member! :wizard:

Emma princess: x

Dream426

10-22-2011, 12:11 PM

Another great update. I wouldn't have thought twice about what you wrote when Conor was playing with the phone and his parents had a drink. Parents are entitled to have fun also. They weren't getting trashed. DH and I once sat next to this family on the disney cruise and the parents were drinking bottles and bottles of wine (yes bottles not glasses, well they put it in glasses. they didn't drink out of the bottle). They just had the CM keep bringing them bottles when they would finish the other. They had really young children also. I said to my husband how are they able to stand up after all those bottles. I would be on the floor. Yes I judged a little. :rolleyes1 I am not proud of it and usually don't but I was shocked.

jenseib

10-22-2011, 12:31 PM

Nikki, I am laughing at your excitement of the parking lot. I have never been to a theme park that doesn't do that (unless you go mid day) and I was amazed you haven't seen that done...but then again I remembered...I'm really old and have been around. :lmao:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-22-2011, 12:38 PM

Love it! I have a confession... I have NEVER made it to Club Cool. Never. Whew, it feels good to get that off my chest! :lmao: But seriously, next time, I will be sure to go. I think the saying on the candy is awesome, and I hope they have it at DLR, but I am skeptical. I may have to wait for WDW. Yay for more F&W!

:scared1: You better go there next time! Actually, that place kind of makes me a little anxious. The floor is always a sticky mess, there are always kids running around and people bumping into each other. It's hard to get to the machines and it's makes me a little claustrophobic...haha, aren't you just dying to go now? We wouldn't have gone in except for that specific purpose.

That is my FAVORITE candy box at Disney. We got a box with left over snack credit in June and I saved the box. What I will do with it, I don't know, but I had to have the box more than the candy inside! :goodvibes

Oh that's funny!

Great update! I think it's just awesome that you were recognized from being on the DIS and hilarious at the same time! I hope the woman comes and comments on the report. :rotfl:

Wasn't that so cool?! On our honeymoon, we were part of a HUGE planning thread and I was actually recognized 7 or 8 times!! It was so much fun!!

I am just loving going back to this trip!:yay: We had so much fun. And don't lie. We gave Conor my phone, left him with some castmember and got completely drunk! Ha ha ha ha ha! I'm so kidding. He got the phone because World Showcase is a little boring to a kid just getting pushed around in a stroller.
And I adore the pics of Emma and Conor. They were just so cute together. Like old friends.
And you're still not forgiven for the Beverly. "OMG! You gotta try the Beverly from Italy! It's so good!" Nikki still can't be trusted. :laughing:
I CANNOT wait to take our tiny little trip. 49 days!!!!!

Oh c'mon! It was all in good fun! :lmao:

great update ... your photos are making me want to be in World Showcase right now :cloud9:That was great about Test Track.. excellent service from the Cast Member! :wizard:

Emma princess: x

Yeah the TT thing was pretty cool! I always want to be in WS!

Another great update. I wouldn't have thought twice about what you wrote when Conor was playing with the phone and his parents had a drink. Parents are entitled to have fun also. They weren't getting trashed. DH and I once sat next to this family on the disney cruise and the parents were drinking bottles and bottles of wine (yes bottles not glasses, well they put it in glasses. they didn't drink out of the bottle). They just had the CM keep bringing them bottles when they would finish the other. They had really young children also. I said to my husband how are they able to stand up after all those bottles. I would be on the floor. Yes I judged a little. :rolleyes1 I am not proud of it and usually don't but I was shocked.

I didn't think anything of it at the time but as I was typing, I felt like I was making it seem like they were boozing it up and leaving him to fend for himself! That's crazy about that family on the cruise.

Nikki, I am laughing at your excitement of the parking lot. I have never been to a theme park that doesn't do that (unless you go mid day) and I was amazed you haven't seen that done...but then again I remembered...I'm really old and have been around. :lmao:

Haha, really? I guess I'm from the "Figure if out yourself" state!

PopArtGal

10-22-2011, 01:03 PM

By the way you guys can hold your liquor. I drank 1/4 of a margarita and was tipsy. Or as my mom said: I kept smiling lol So yeah I was happy lol

PopArtGal

10-22-2011, 01:14 PM

I loved all these chocolate boxes too. I bought the Jessica Rabbitt one and was so disapointed with the candy inside. It was not what I expected.

dolfinjuls

10-22-2011, 03:01 PM

Love your lunch around the world! Mmmm...can't wait to see what we can get into there!

Oh and the Beverly faces are awesome! I've never tried it myself! haha

ronnmel

10-22-2011, 06:38 PM

Wow! When you update, you go full out!!! I had to skip over all the food part, but enjoyed the getting on Test Track by the exit part!

Zuzu03

10-22-2011, 06:45 PM

GREAT update!!!! The Food and Wine sampling looks so good! DH and I haven't been to the F&W in several years and I think it's HIGH time we went back!! Unfortunately, they stopped the VEA days we used to get here in Vermont this time in October! We used to get a Thursday and Friday at this time in October every year for Professional Development and it was a GREAT time to sneak down to Disney for MNSSHP and F&W! I just MAY have to be *cough, cough* sick next year for a couple of days! haha! And I LOVE the TT story! That's awesome!!! :thumbsup2

IheartDDuck

10-22-2011, 07:10 PM

Those were seriously some of the best Beverly faces ever. Great timing you had with catching them in a picture! :lmao:

Beer flights....I'm definitely going to have to get those. :thumbsup2

Nermel9

10-22-2011, 08:19 PM

Great Food and Wine update! I miss the F&W festival already! I love the TT picture, with the random guy in your car, I'm glad he did something funny! I hope he got a copy of it on the way out! :rotfl:

I don't see a problem with Gary and Erin having a drink or two when they have Conor with them, adults are allowed to have fun in Disney too! :thumbsup2

OMG I can't believe someone recognized you from the DIS! Did you feel like a celebrity? :laughing: I hope she posts here and says hi!

Spartangirl

10-23-2011, 09:59 AM

Wow...you are the updating queen! :goodvibes Love it!

Ok, you're right...the cranberry bog is so cool! :cool1: Nice touch, Disney!

I LOVE the beverly faces!!! :laughing: It's always fun when you have "unsuspecting newbies" along with you!

Looks like you got to try a lot of amazing food and delicious beverages from the festival...hope I can make it to one in the future! :thumbsup2

Can't wait for more...

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-23-2011, 01:52 PM

By the way you guys can hold your liquor. I drank 1/4 of a margarita and was tipsy. Or as my mom said: I kept smiling lol So yeah I was happy lol

Well trust me, I was feeling it for sure! I don't drink very often usually....

I loved all these chocolate boxes too. I bought the Jessica Rabbitt one and was so disapointed with the candy inside. It was not what I expected.

I didn't really get to see any other ones. I was too concerned with the beverly!

Love your lunch around the world! Mmmm...can't wait to see what we can get into there!

Oh and the Beverly faces are awesome! I've never tried it myself! haha

Oh the snacks and drinks were so great! And honestly, I don't even know if I ever tried Beverly either! :lmao:

Wow! When you update, you go full out!!! I had to skip over all the food part, but enjoyed the getting on Test Track by the exit part!

I know! I was on a roll with this one. Actually, I only wrote about a few hours but we just have soooo many pictures!

GREAT update!!!! The Food and Wine sampling looks so good! DH and I haven't been to the F&W in several years and I think it's HIGH time we went back!! Unfortunately, they stopped the VEA days we used to get here in Vermont this time in October! We used to get a Thursday and Friday at this time in October every year for Professional Development and it was a GREAT time to sneak down to Disney for MNSSHP and F&W! I just MAY have to be *cough, cough* sick next year for a couple of days! haha! And I LOVE the TT story! That's awesome!!! :thumbsup2

This is only the second time we've been to food and wine and it's just so much fun! But to be honest, it's pretty close to what our usual Epcot days look like, just minus the bonus snacks and drinks!

Those were seriously some of the best Beverly faces ever. Great timing you had with catching them in a picture! :lmao:

Beer flights....I'm definitely going to have to get those. :thumbsup2

THANK YOU! So glad you can appreciate the beverly faces! It's funny because I don't usually LOVE beer, I'll order it but I don't like all different kinds like Tom does...but for some reason, everything is just so good in Epcot!

Great Food and Wine update! I miss the F&W festival already! I love the TT picture, with the random guy in your car, I'm glad he did something funny! I hope he got a copy of it on the way out! :rotfl:

I don't see a problem with Gary and Erin having a drink or two when they have Conor with them, adults are allowed to have fun in Disney too! :thumbsup2

OMG I can't believe someone recognized you from the DIS! Did you feel like a celebrity? :laughing: I hope she posts here and says hi!

I kind of did feel like a celebrity a little bit! It was pretty cool!

Wow...you are the updating queen! :goodvibes Love it!

Ok, you're right...the cranberry bog is so cool! :cool1: Nice touch, Disney!

I LOVE the beverly faces!!! :laughing: It's always fun when you have "unsuspecting newbies" along with you!

Looks like you got to try a lot of amazing food and delicious beverages from the festival...hope I can make it to one in the future! :thumbsup2

Can't wait for more...

Oh it really is so much fun. If you can ever arrange a trip around the time of the festival, you really should do it. :thumbsup2

PreciousPluto

10-23-2011, 07:32 PM

Nikki
I have really enjoyed several of your trip reports, so I am coming out of "lurkdom" to say how much I am enjoying your fall trip. I have never been to the Food and Wine Festival or MNNSHP, so I am looking forward to your impressions and pictures! I may just have to plan a trip for next fall...:cloud9:

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-24-2011, 05:03 PM

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-24-2011, 05:20 PM

Haha! When I do a post, I literally have FIVE photobucket windows open, all set to a different album. One being the good camera, one with the small camera, one with the vid camera that also takes stills, one for Erin's pics and one with photopass! It's a LOT to keep organized when doing a post! I think I've been doing a pretty good job but there is one that I missed. I knew I had this picture but just didn't see it when I was talking about how excited everyone would get when they passed the F&W booth that just said, "CHEESE." Seriously, just stand in that area and every few minutes someone would come around the corner and see the stand and shout, "CHEESE!"

See? Erin was excited about it too!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/WDW%202011%20Kodak/100_0008.jpg

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-24-2011, 06:07 PM

Friday September 30, 2011 ~ Busiest Day Ever!

We last left off having finished off beer flights # 1 and 2, meeting a DISer and snacking on some cheese!

As we made our way into Germany, we saw a line forming for Snow White and figured we'd get on it! She wasn't there at the moment but we were told she'd be back shortly.

We struck up a conversation with the photopass photographer and found out she was from the NY/NJ area. She was thrilled to be talking to us and frankly, did a lot of complaining about the lifestyles of the people down south. We all totally understood...it's just very different but it was a little awkward!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0273.jpg

Finally, Snow White appeared and we got our pictures.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0275.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/2011%20Photopass/Photo0274FourBySix.jpg

It seems like we've done so much in WS already, but we were only in Germany! That's only 4 countries in for those who are not fluent in Epcot. ;)

OH! I forgot to mention that as we rounded the corner to Germany (before all the cheese and beer) we saw some crocs flips that I urged Tom to buy. His Reefs were thrown out before the trip and we never really had time to buy new ones. I really wanted him to have flips because I thought he would be more comfortable and everyone RAVES about Crocs right?

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0276.jpg

At first, he LOVED them.....for maybe 5 minutes.....

Anyway, we then made our way to Italy where Tom did his best "Spanish Stacy" impression. Spanish Stacy doesn't exist anymore....in fact, Stacy wasn't even her name! I'm sure you all know who Stacy is.....well a few years ago, there was also a Spanish version of the Top 7 Must Sees (which is was back then) and we LOVED her! But our favorite was that she's in Epcot talking about the different countries, how France is so beautiful and romantic and Japan has such culture....then cut to her in Italy and she's doing this face and just goes, "Mama Mia... SPAGHETTI!"

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0278.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0280.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0282.jpg

NikkiLovesWDW!

10-24-2011, 06:08 PM

We then made our way to probably my favorite pavilion on Epcot....AMERICA!!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0298.jpg

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0284.jpg

After stopping to get Conor a Kielbasa and Potato Pierogie with Carmelized Onions and Sour Cream from Poland.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0285.jpg

The Fife and Drum had just ONE added item for Food and Wine....the Red Stag Lemonade by Jim Bean. Erin got one....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0286.jpg

...and after asking for a sip, I think I drank more of it! Sorry Erin!! It was amazingly good!

We took some pics by the fountain....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0288.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0289.jpg

Erin found a pin she liked....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0290.jpg

I found as shirt I liked.....I've loved that quote for a while and that it was so cool they put it on a t-shirt!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0294.jpg

Watched a little Fife and Drum (love it!)

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0299.jpg

And Gary and Erin stopped for some food and Hops and Barley...

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0291.jpg

Linda Bean's Lobster Claw Cuddler with Drawn Butter and Linda Bean's Perfect Maine Lobster Roll

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0292.jpg

No thank you! I'm not a seafood person AT ALL!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0293.jpg

Then it was time to move on.....

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0300.jpg

I'm pretty sure these next to things come from New Zealand but I can't be positive. Looking at the menus, I THINK they are the Seared Sea Scallop with Kumara Red Curry Puree and Apple Radish Salad and Lamb Slider with Tomato Chutney.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0301.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0302.jpg

Moving on, we stopped in Morocco for some "look at how awesome World Showcase is!" shots as well as "look at this hidden mickey" shots.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0304.jpg
http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0305.jpg

I remember we then stopped to use the bathroom and Gary was stuck with the problem of having two delicious foods in his hands with no means to eat them!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0306.jpg

Hmm, guessing again but I'm thinking this is from Belguim: Steamed Mussles with Roasted Garlic cream and a Baguette.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0307.jpg

And I'm pretty sure Conor got a Belguim waffle but for some reason, there is no picture! SHOCKER!

At this point, Erin and I had to go to the Wide World of Sports to pick up our race packets so we all walked towards the front.

This picture is sort of an inside joke. Some of you might have seen the youtube video of some movie with Hitler...and someone put the subtitles to express how angry he is about not being able to get a reservation at Le Cellier and how much the Electric Umbrella sucks! It's really funny! So we wanted a picture of us standing in front of the Electric Umbrella with the thumbs down. I even asked the person who took this picture to get the sign in (it was above our heads) but clearly, he cut it off. Oh well!

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee453/nikkigwdw/Disney%20World%202011/DSC_0308.jpg

Up Next: I can't believe there's this whole place in Disney World that I've never seen before!!!