Joy From The World! A New Trip Report! 1/27 HUGE News!!!

[mickeysmyboy]

Welcome old friends and new to yet another Mickeysmyboy TR!

This trip was born out of a not so magical trip last December. A trip in which I was nearly arrested for the attempted murder of a family member or 2.

Ok, not really. But, our trip last December was very much less then magical because cold weather, different personalities, different expectations and different wants and needs got in the way.

The problem was that I want that trip soooo badly. A magical Christmas trip was something I had dreamed of. Beautiful Christmas decorations, amazing carols, snow falling (only fake please), ahhhhhh I could go on!

Unfortunately, I got to experience very little of that holiday Disney magic!

So, DH promised me a re-do trip. Originally it was supposed to be a family, DH and I and the kiddos, trip. But, requests for a MNSSHP trip could not be ignored and the family trip was moved up to October and the December trip not only became a re-do trip, but a trip where DH and I would be kidless and we would celebrate my birthday a few weeks early! Woo hooo!!!

A brief intro to the small cast of character before I start the party,

My DH!! John, he could be seen many, many times during the trip like this,

http://inlinethumb20.webshots.com/46547/2401492000098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2401492000098269115achEbp)

or like this

http://inlinethumb18.webshots.com/47505/2284359950098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2284359950098269115ivEISJ)

Ho hum!

DH is a civil engineer and works very, very hard! Him and his Dad own their own business and spend insane amounts of time working! Most of DH’s work weeks are over 60 hours!

When he isn’t working he enjoys sailing, fishing, boating and sports!

Me! Melissa, Mickeysmyboy!

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/33932/2637962220098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2637962220098269115TcqutQ)
(I used that picture for you, Tracy ;))

I am a Disney Travel Agent/SAHM! Our three kiddos keep me VERY busy! But, to make life a little more interesting I’m a PTA mom, I spent a crazy amount of time leading up to the trip working at the school book fair! Also, with DH’s love of sailing are kiddos (the 2 bigger ones) take sailing lessons at our local yacht club! At the end of this past summer I was elected Rear Commodore of the yacht club! YIKES! That means I’m in charge of the rapidly changing and growing sailing program and all of our young instructors and students! YIKES, YIKES, YIKES!!

Trip details; 6 nights at WL, 7 days in the parks! First time renting a car, lots and lots of holiday fun including 2 trips to MVMCP!!

As for the kiddos, the kiddos and 2 fur babies stayed home with Grandma and Grandpa! Luckily for us, Grandma and Grandpa live right next door!

A little pre-trip info; Leading up to the trip was a very busy time, with the school book fair, Thanksgiving, parent/teacher conferences, etc things got a little crazy!

Making sure Grandma has everything she needs for the kids and all the info she needs is no easy task! I swear this arrangement is way more stressful then a family trip!

But, I kept on thinking of this motto in mind to get me through…

http://inlinethumb25.webshots.com/47320/2209172010098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2209172010098269115RkQNuH)

With the trip rapidly approaching after the middle of November I knew I had very little time to lose! Of course, as some of you know, my life is never without crisis or drama!

So, to make things more interesting I re-injured a knee I had injured over the summer! Some of you will remember me falling in a hole in a pipe in the water near our yacht club and completely screwing up my left knee!

Being good to the knee and TRYING to do what the doctor said helped it heal and it wasn’t an issue at all during our October trip! But, being a klutz like I am a few weeks before our trip I got up in the middle of the night to get a crying DS4 who was having a nightmare. When I brought him into our room at 3 am, in the dark and being in a middle of the night fog I misjudged where the end of our bed was! Good gosh I tripped sooo bad!

I did a very graceful dance around the end of the bed trying not to fall on or drop DS4! Of course, I totally blew the knee again!!! The next morning involved a call to the doctor and I was luckily able to get an appointment the next day!

He sent me for my second MRI in 5 months and the results indicated water on my knee, bursitis, and a bulge of some sort in my meniscus in the back of my knee, it may be torn but they aren’t sure! Joy!!!

My doctor is FABULOUS and gave me lots of advice when I told him that DH and I would be going to WDW! But, he did tell me “I’m not going to lie to you, it’s going to hurt, probably a lot, and your not going to be happy!” Great news!

He decided to wait until right before our trip to see if all the inflammation had gone down and said he would give me a cortisone injection if I needed it before the trip! So, I made a follow up appointment for a few days before the trip!

Life being what it is, the day before that appointment (3 days before the trip) I was running errands making sure everything at home was squared away. I was in BJ’s (wholesale club) with my brand new iphone 4s in my hand when some crazy lady knocked into me and I dropped my phone!!!! On the hard, concrete floor!!!! The stupid lady didn’t even say sorry! I was standing still and she bumped me because she wasn’t paying attention! Grrrrr!!!

I bet you know what happened!!

The screen shattered!!

My heart sank and I nearly had an anxiety attack right in the middle of the store!

I hurried up and finished my shopping and hightailed it home and called apple! Luckily the guy I spoke to was able to get me an appointment the next day at the only apple store anywhere near me. Which is about 45 minutes from my house! Of course, the apple appointment would make my doctors appointment impossible! So I had to cancel it! Grrr!

But, I needed a phone for the trip! So off to the apple store I went! A quick trip and a lighter wallet later I had a brand new phone!!

But, would cancelling my doctors appointment lead to problems during the trip?! Would the trip go the way the things had been going?!

[mickeysmyboy]

12/16 Signs, trees and more! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43484152&postcount=34)

[KatMark]

Hi, Melissa. I'm here; I'm on the phone with my baby (age 23) who was at hospital for tests, but I'll be back to read. Just saving my spot. :)

Okay...I'm back.

Great intros. Sorry to hear about the knee -- :eek:

And why are people so rude that they can't even say "I'm sorry?"

Can't wait to hear all about the trip.

[DisMomAmy]

:confused3 Am I first? :confused3

Not quite...

OK back to comment... I know what you mean about preparing caregivers for your absence! DH & I haven't gone away without the kids in a while but I've gone away without DH & it's unbelieveable how many lists I have to leave behind!

Oh no about your knee!!! :scared1: Double oh no about your phone!! :scared1::scared1: I can't believe that lady didn't say anything. :sad2: I completely understand why your appointment with Apple would take priority over your appointment with the doctor. :laughing: I'd do the same thing! I hope that decision didn't come back to haunt you.

[cmskok]

Hi Melissa!!! I am dying to go to Disney for the mvmcp so I will live vicariously through you!!!

[Wannabinnc]

Hi there!!! Can't wait to hear all about the wonderful trip!!!!!! Take care of your knee.

[2xcited2sleep]

Reporting for duty! :)

Lots of pre trip drama...yikes! :scared1: Really hoping it all worked out and you weren't too uncomfortable with all the walking. :goodvibes

[manntra]

Ahhhhahaha!!! My favorite picture!!! Thanks so much!!!! :)
Love your adult trips and can't wait to tag along!!

Ugghhhh poor Siri!!!! I was so angry when you told me about dearly departed Siri. I would have been fuming! Thankfully we both got the insurance this time around!!!

Tracy

[eandesmom]

ouch ouch and OUCH!

I'm here. Horrible about keeping up anywhere these days but I'm sure going to try!

[MeMom]

I can certainly relate to the knee issues. I let mine go far too long. I had arthritis, torn meniscus, and something else they found when they did the surgery. I don't remember - they told Jill while I was still out of it. ;) I hope the pain didn't dampen your trip too much.

Sorry about the phone breaking. I would have chosen the phone over the doctor's appointment, too. Communication at hand has become the norm, especially with kids.

I look forward to lots of good pictures coming up. :)

[xoktenox]

I'm here, Melissa! :goodvibes

Oh jeez, I remember when you hurt your knee over the summer! I hope you didn't have many issues with it on the trip, especially since you had to cancel your doctor's appointment! I know how far the Apple Store is from you...what a pain! :headache:

I know you always have surprises up your sleeve on your WDW trips...I can't wait to see what they are this time. I also wanted to ask you, I'm interested in doing a private dining event for Chris and I on our Disneymoon. I know you did this for your DH once. What are your suggestions and how much am I looking at spending (approx)? You are my private dining guru :rotfl:

[oopsiDAISY]

Hi, I am a lurker from your other TR coming out of hiding for this one...can't wait to hear how your knee does for you on this trip. Hope the re-do is better than the original trip!!!

[Lynn57]

Can't wait to follow! popcorn::

[Mndisneygirl]

I'm here!!!
I love the title - 2 years ago we got the girls t-shirts that said Joy From the World!!!

Back from reading -
OH MY GOSH! I hope you bought insurance on this phone!! HA!

Your poor knee! Sometimes I think knee problems are the worst - they hinder so much other activity. But then I think, Oh, if my arm was broken I couldn't type...No matter what it is - being injured stinks!! I really pray that it didn't affect your trip. Guess I'll have to keep reading to find out!

[brookelizabeth]

I'm here! :yay:

There is always drama before a trip, isn't there?! :headache::headache::headache: I swear we can never get out of the house without something crazy happening either!

[jenjolt]

I'm here!! WOOT WOOT!! Thanks for the heads up! Can't wait to hear all about it!

WOW what a crazy start to your trip!! That is insane!!! Sorry to hear about your knee, I hope it didn't end up giving you too much trouble!

[reelmom]

Sorry to hear about your phone and your knee. Can't wait to hear about an adults only trip.

[mickeysmyboy]

Hi, Melissa. I'm here; I'm on the phone with my baby (age 23) who was at hospital for tests, but I'll be back to read. Just saving my spot. :)

Okay...I'm back.

Great intros. Sorry to hear about the knee -- :eek:

And why are people so rude that they can't even say "I'm sorry?"

Can't wait to hear all about the trip.

Oh my goodness! I hope your son is OK!!!

UGH! My knee is soooo annoying!!!

The guy in the apple store said the same thing!! No, not even a look back! I think she may have been scared of what I was going to say!

:confused3 Am I first? :confused3

Not quite...

OK back to comment... I know what you mean about preparing caregivers for your absence! DH & I haven't gone away without the kids in a while but I've gone away without DH & it's unbelieveable how many lists I have to leave behind!

Oh no about your knee!!! :scared1: Double oh no about your phone!! :scared1::scared1: I can't believe that lady didn't say anything. :sad2: I completely understand why your appointment with Apple would take priority over your appointment with the doctor. :laughing: I'd do the same thing! I hope that decision didn't come back to haunt you.

It really is a lot of work to get everything together when we go away alone! Even more so when I go away alone! But, it's all worth it in the end!

I really thought I needed the phone for the trip! How could I be out of communication!? Even if with DH's phone glued to him I still needed mine!

Hi Melissa!!! I am dying to go! to Disney for the mvmcp so I will live vicariously through you!!!

Welcome!

MVMCP is fabulous and so festive! I have LOTS of pictures!

Hi there!!! Can't wait to hear all about the wonderful trip!!!!!! Take care of your knee.

Welcome! Thanks!!

Reporting for duty! :)

Lots of pre trip drama...yikes! :scared1: Really hoping it all worked out and you weren't too uncomfortable with all the walking. :goodvibes

Wooo hooo! Welcome C!!

Ahhh, you know me, there is rarely a drama free time!

Ahhhhahaha!!! My favorite picture!!! Thanks so much!!!! :)
Love your adult trips and can't wait to tag along!!

Ugghhhh poor Siri!!!! I was so angry when you told me about dearly departed Siri. I would have been fuming! Thankfully we both got the insurance this time around!!!

Tracy

Welcome Tracy!! :lmao:

Poor Siri 1!!! I'm sure by now Apple has refurbed her hopefully she'll be in good hands after that! I wonder if she'll tell them "Hold on, I'm still getting to know you!" :lmao:

ouch ouch and OUCH!

I'm here. Horrible about keeping up anywhere these days but I'm sure going to try!


Welcome Cynthia!!

I know what you mean!! I have a hard time keeping up all the time!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

I was here last night but my post got stuck on my phone!!!
How sad about your knee and that woman that made you drop your phone!!!!!
What moron...

[mickeysmyboy]

I can certainly relate to the knee issues. I let mine go far too long. I had arthritis, torn meniscus, and something else they found when they did the surgery. I don't remember - they told Jill while I was still out of it. ;) I hope the pain didn't dampen your trip too much.

Sorry about the phone breaking. I would have chosen the phone over the doctor's appointment, too. Communication at hand has become the norm, especially with kids.

I look forward to lots of good pictures coming up. :)

Welcome MeMom!!!

I remember when you had the surgery on your knee! I'm going to the doctor next week, I'm interested to see what he says! It's been KILLING me off and on!

As much I hated to cancel my appt I couldn't be without my phone!

I'm here, Melissa! :goodvibes

Oh jeez, I remember when you hurt your knee over the summer! I hope you didn't have many issues with it on the trip, especially since you had to cancel your doctor's appointment! I know how far the Apple Store is from you...what a pain! :headache:

I know you always have surprises up your sleeve on your WDW trips...I can't wait to see what they are this time. I also wanted to ask you, I'm interested in doing a private dining event for Chris and I on our Disneymoon. I know you did this for your DH once. What are your suggestions and how much am I looking at spending (approx)? You are my private dining guru :rotfl:

I was soooo upset when I hurt my dang knee again!

I can't believe I had to drive a lllll the way to Smith Haven! I impressed myself though! I dropped DS4 at school a little before 9 drove to Smith Haven (the apple store opens at 9) for a 9:45 appt, got the new phone and still got home by 11!

I didn't have too many surprises up my sleeve this trip! But, we still had lots of fun! We did do the private dinner last year! I'll go through my info and PM you! It was fabulous!

Hi, I am a lurker from your other TR coming out of hiding for this one...can't wait to hear how your knee does for you on this trip. Hope the re-do is better than the original trip!!!

Welcome and thanks! The re-do was a lot better!

Can't wait to follow! popcorn::

Thanks for joining in!

I'm here!!!
I love the title - 2 years ago we got the girls t-shirts that said Joy From the World!!!

Back from reading -
OH MY GOSH! I hope you bought insurance on this phone!! HA!

Your poor knee! Sometimes I think knee problems are the worst - they hinder so much other activity. But then I think, Oh, if my arm was broken I couldn't type...No matter what it is - being injured stinks!! I really pray that it didn't affect your trip. Guess I'll have to keep reading to find out!

Welcome!!! Actually, that's where the name came from! I bought a sweatshirt that says that!!

Thank god I did buy insurance on the dang phone!

I think any injury just kinda stinks! I really wish it would stop hurting though!


I'm here! :yay:

There is always drama before a trip, isn't there?! :headache::headache::headache: I swear we can never get out of the house without something crazy happening either!

Woo hoo!! Welcome Brook!

My life is so rarely without drama! But, at this point I'm used to it!

I'm here!! WOOT WOOT!! Thanks for the heads up! Can't wait to hear all about it!

WOW what a crazy start to your trip!! That is insane!!! Sorry to hear about your knee, I hope it didn't end up giving you too much trouble!


Welcome Jen!!

Never without drama around here!

Sorry to hear about your phone and your knee. Can't wait to hear about an adults only trip.

Welcome!!! More to come soon!

[mickeysmyboy]

I was here last night but my post got stuck on my phone!!!
How sad about your knee and that woman that made you drop your phone!!!!!
What moron...

Welcome Anita!!

Ahh, this too shall pass!!

[Poolrat]

As a fellow Diser with knee problems, I understand you pain.
That being said, would have cancelled the DR. Appointment too!:lmao:

So much drama before you leave. I sure hope you left it all behind as you left.

[marDgreen88]

Oooh yay, I'm here! Sorry about all your pre-trip drama! Can't wait to read along. :)

[MEK]

I'm here - two days late - but here. I hope you have lots of updates for me to read when I get back! I promise to send you wonderful drink pictures and I hope that you won't be driving when you receive them, like I was. :rotfl: Darn, that was SO distracting! :rotfl:

Nice pic of you - :rotfl2:

[TanzUnited99]

Great intros...am so happy you got to redo your Christmas trip. Lol at DH always texting or being on the phone!

Oh no on the knee situation...not what you want to hear before a WDW trip. Yay on getting a brand new phone but hope that decision doesn't come back to bite you! :laughing:

[pooh'smate]

Joining in.

[mickeysmyboy]

As a fellow Diser with knee problems, I understand you pain.
That being said, would have cancelled the DR. Appointment too!:lmao:

So much drama before you leave. I sure hope you left it all behind as you left.

Welcome and thanks!!!

I really wish I could have kept the appointment, but I needed the phone!!

Stay tuned for more!

Oooh yay, I'm here! Sorry about all your pre-trip drama! Can't wait to read along. :)

Welcome! More coming soon!

I'm here - two days late - but here. I hope you have lots of updates for me to read when I get back! I promise to send you wonderful drink pictures and I hope that you won't be driving when you receive them, like I was. :rotfl: Darn, that was SO distracting! :rotfl:

Nice pic of you - :rotfl2:

Welcome MaryEllen!!! I can't wait for drink pictures and such!! I hope you have a FABULOUS TRIP!!!!!

Great intros...am so happy you got to redo your Christmas trip. Lol at DH always texting or being on the phone!

Oh no on the knee situation...not what you want to hear before a WDW trip. Yay on getting a brand new phone but hope that decision doesn't come back to bite you! :laughing:

UGH with the darn phone!!! I think the thing was attached to his hand!!!!

The knee thing is annoying!! But, I needed a phone for the trip!

Joining in.

Welcome!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

Well, what do I spy with my little eye??? ;) :rolleyes1

[mickeysmyboy]

Well, what do I spy with my little eye??? ;) :rolleyes1

I don't know! What could it be?!

[GrammyJudy]

I can feel our pain. I have a torn miniscus and arthritis but I am trying to avoid a replacement. Hope it didn't slow you down on your trip

[Mndisneygirl]

Did you have any thing you'd like to announce that relates to that flowery ticker that both you and Christine seem to have???? I don't recall that being there before.

Then again, maybe it's just a coincidence.;) Or I wasn't paying attention.

[micandminforever]

Joining the Disney fun. :goodvibes I love December trip reports.

[mickeysmyboy]

I can feel our pain. I have a torn miniscus and arthritis but I am trying to avoid a replacement. Hope it didn't slow you down on your trip

Ack! Stupid knee!! It seems there's a lot of Disers with knee problems!! My MIL had her meniscus fixed in August but with the arthritis in the her knee it really didn't help! She said it was a waste!

Did you have any thing you'd like to announce that relates to that flowery ticker that both you and Christine seem to have???? I don't recall that being there before.

Then again, maybe it's just a coincidence.;) Or I wasn't paying attention.

I plead the 5th :rolleyes1


Joining the Disney fun. :goodvibes I love December trip reports.


Welcome, welcome, welcome!

[mickeysmyboy]

Now on with Day 1!

With everything finally squared away and a short, but good, night sleep I was up at bright and early around 3:30 am!

A quick shower and getting the rest of our stuff together we were out the door about 5 am with FIL as a chauffer!

We got to the airport quickly and easily by 5:30ish! A quick curbside check-in, a quick and easy trip through security and we were soon at the gate!

We had a little breakfast and coffee and tea from Starbucks and it was soon time to board!

Our flight was easy and enjoyable! I sat next to a lovely women who was probably a little younger then I was. She was going on a cruise with her boyfriend! Unfortunately they were in the C boarding group and weren’t able to sit together! I enjoyed her company though! Especially when we chatted about the women in front of us who was with her husband and 2 tweenish granddaughters! She was toturing these poor girls with complaints etc. Poor kids! Their vacation with Grandma and Grandpa was just starting and they very obviously wanted to kill Grandma already! My new friend told me that if I saw them anywhere in WDW I needed to run the other direction! LOL!!

Soon we landed and made our way to the fake monorail! Where DH took his first of many, many, many business calls of the trip! UGH!!

http://inlinethumb36.webshots.com/47587/2585360100098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2585360100098269115jUBPJy)

We quickly made our way to baggage claim and luckily for is our bags came out right at the beginning!

With bags in hand we made our way down to get our car! With my National Rental Car Emerald Club membership we got to go right out the lot and grab a car! All we had to do was stop at a window on the way out of the lot!!

On the road we were and we stopped at Publix to pick up some water, soda, beer and wine! I must say, I LOVE this store for the wine selection alone!! They had a HUGE selection of some great wine!!! It was very hard to choose what I wanted! But I knew taking too long was cutting into park time, etc. I I picked a bottle of Riesling and a bottle of Prosecco!

With goodies in hand we were on the road again! Soon we passed under THE sign!!!

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/43381/2014029180098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2014029180098269115ESXUNv)

And then another sign!!

http://inlinethumb06.webshots.com/48837/2770026710098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2770026710098269115spzOMH)

And then under this!!!

http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/46403/2378379380098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2378379380098269115oUUGyR)

We had arrived!!! Woo hoo!!

With the luggage out of the car and the car valet parked we went inside to check in! Well, I checked us in and DH went and found a chair!

Check in was quick and easy! Our room wasn’t ready but the CM who checked me in offered to try and find us a room in the same category that was ready. But, she said the room we had been assigned offered a view of the courtyard and pool. So, I opted to stick with what we had been assigned!

With check in complete and DH cozy in one of the comfy chairs on the second business call of the trip I took a few pictures around the lobby!

Camera pictures...

http://inlinethumb45.webshots.com/46572/2194641810098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2194641810098269115AXWhpB)

http://inlinethumb62.webshots.com/50109/2937698320098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2937698320098269115VOjrHV)

http://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/48510/2306121670098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2306121670098269115EgQxif)

http://inlinethumb52.webshots.com/41715/2146263710098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2146263710098269115GnIOvZ)

http://inlinethumb18.webshots.com/47249/2883622050098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2883622050098269115zvFHGl)

http://inlinethumb16.webshots.com/46671/2238535000098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2238535000098269115WMyQnV)

Phone pics...

http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/50076/2564975700098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2564975700098269115dixNvE)

http://inlinethumb05.webshots.com/48260/2048919280098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2048919280098269115AoITpF)

http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/22595/2435897060098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2435897060098269115jIdBZs)

Once the dirty looks I was giving DH finally took affect he got off the phone! We got a photopass picture taken in front of tree, which I’ll post when we get them, and we headed out!

We took the car over to DHS! Don’t you know about ½ way to DHS I got a text that our room was ready?! LOL!!

We got there quickly and easily, parked the car, took the tram to the entrance, and then got through security and the turnstile very quickly!

http://inlinethumb56.webshots.com/49655/2029979750098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2029979750098269115oENYEg)
DHS Christmas Tree!

We stopped to have another photopass picture taken! This is one that the photopass photographer took with my camera!

http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/47359/2060121500098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2060121500098269115wyVEwY)
I look kinda pale and tired! YIKES!

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/48285/2588040000098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2588040000098269115FBjMPR)
light pole tree!

After the pictures DH noticed another person wearing a birthday button and commented that I didn’t get one! We were in fact celebrating my b-day. I told him it was ok but he insisted on going to guest services to get me one! Sweet hubby!

We were a little hungry at that point, as it was now around 12, maybe a little before! But we had a late lunch/early dinner ADR at Mama Melrose at 3:30! We discussed getting a real meal and cancelling the ADR but we opted for a snack to hold us over!

DH was dying for a frozen lemonade so we stopped and got that and a soda and then went in search of a pretzels!

We sat on the wall near the hat and ate our pretzels and soon it was time to move on! But DH was busy doing this…

http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/47668/2767003490098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2767003490098269115TGEqaZ)
Either a work text or email or checking his fantasy football or hockey!! Grrrrr!

We wondered a bit, checking the wait for TSM, which was something like 80 minutes. We decided to head over to Muppet Vision 3D!

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/49766/2417592340098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2417592340098269115wyGTrp)

A few pictures while we waited!

http://inlinethumb33.webshots.com/50400/2238504150098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2238504150098269115GZVJFH)

http://inlinethumb27.webshots.com/50138/2620056730098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2620056730098269115vbsmKn)

http://inlinethumb26.webshots.com/49945/2857622630098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2857622630098269115odOSGy)

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/46721/2874785310098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2874785310098269115PPxOop)
pigs in space!!!

http://inlinethumb15.webshots.com/48846/2380320300098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2380320300098269115efsniv)

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After MV we went into the Muppet shop looking for an Animal winter hat for both DS’s! DD got a Kermit hat in October and I thought they had an Animal! Both the boys would have loved one! But, I couldn’t them! Boo! While looking I tried to convince DH to go on Star Tours, he had taken Dramamine on plane after all, but he wasn’t feeling it!

He wanted to see the Indiana Jones show which was starting in 30 minutes or so. So I decided to stop in the Writers Stop (LOVE this place) and get some good coffee to wake my tired self up a bit and then we headed over to see Indy!

http://inlinethumb44.webshots.com/48299/2645390540098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2645390540098269115tItnvd)
Cookies in the Writer's Stop

We ended up sitting toward the top at DH’s request so I skipped to pics! After a fabulous Indy show we decided to head for the Great Movie Ride!

When we got there there was a little bit of a line but as we walked down inside the CM at the line asked we were a party of 2. I told her yes and she took us right on and right to the car! Woo hoo! We ended up in the front row!

Of course, we got the gangster for the 9,000,000th time! I think I’ve only had the cowboy 1 time!

Our driver was completely wacky! So totally overly animated with a loud, squeaky voice! Yikes!! Because we were in the front row and had a crazy driver I felt kinda strange taking pictures! But it was a good ride just the same!

Up next our first dinner in WDW!

[ronnmel]

They had a photopass photographer at the resort? Awesome!

Other than that, seems like a good start to the trip. :)

[KatMark]

Love the update, Melissa. The WL looks beautiful with the Christmas decorations up.

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo: getting to the Studios and getting a few attractions done before your meal at Mama Melrose.

Love the coffee at Writer's Shop. :thumbsup2

[mickeysmyboy]

Ack!!!! I just realized my update is wrong! I said dh got me the button after the picture! But I'm wearing it!!! He must have gotten it before!

[2xcited2sleep]

Ahhh. There's nothing like the WL lobby at Christmas. With the AKL lobby a close second. :santa:

So sweet of John to get you a birthday button! :goodvibes

I LOVED pigs in space on the Muppets. That was always one of my favorite segments. :laughing:

I've never tried Mama Melrose so I'm looking forward to hearing what you thought!

[Mndisneygirl]

What a nice start to your trip! Too bad your room couldn't have been ready just a teensy bit sooner!!
I have to stop at Writer's stop next time I'm at DHS. I'm hearing lots of good things...

Is it that they have the photo pass in the lobby just around Christmas? I seem to recall that from our Dec. 09 trip they had them at AKL too. That would make for a great Christmas card picture! I remember seeing people with nice cute matching shirts getting family pictures somewhere - could have been at WL since we visited there too that trip.

Pleading the 5th??? As we lawyers like to think - you must be hiding something!!!

[xoktenox]

Ahhhh, the WL lobby, especially at Christmas time, is so gorgeous!! I love cozying up in a big rocking chair by the fireplace :thumbsup2

Oh I can't wait to finally try the Writers Stop! I don't know how I've missed it on every trip!

[mickeysmyboy]

They had a photopass photographer at the resort? Awesome!

Other than that, seems like a good start to the trip. :)


I think it's a holiday thing! He was in front of the tree everyday! At night they have a whole set up with photography lights and all!

Love the update, Melissa. The WL looks beautiful with the Christmas decorations up.

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo: getting to the Studios and getting a few attractions done before your meal at Mama Melrose.

Love the coffee at Writer's Shop. :thumbsup2

I LOVE WL at Christmas!! Soooooo much!!!

We had a good time at DHS! I was glad to get as much done as we did!

LOVE the Writer's Stop, that's coffee is so good!

Ahhh. There's nothing like the WL lobby at Christmas. With the AKL lobby a close second. :santa:

So sweet of John to get you a birthday button! :goodvibes

I LOVED pigs in space on the Muppets. That was always one of my favorite segments. :laughing:

I've never tried Mama Melrose so I'm looking forward to hearing what you thought!

I love, love, love WL at Christmas!! AKL too, you have to wait for those pics! ;)

I thought John was pretty sweet to get me the button too!

I LOVED Pigs in Space too! I never noticed that up there before!

Mama Melrose update coming soon!

What a nice start to your trip! Too bad your room couldn't have been ready just a teensy bit sooner!!
I have to stop at Writer's stop next time I'm at DHS. I'm hearing lots of good things...

Is it that they have the photo pass in the lobby just around Christmas? I seem to recall that from our Dec. 09 trip they had them at AKL too. That would make for a great Christmas card picture! I remember seeing people with nice cute matching shirts getting family pictures somewhere - could have been at WL since we visited there too that trip.

Pleading the 5th??? As we lawyers like to think - you must be hiding something!!!

I honestly think if our room had been ready we probably would had fallen asleep and missed out on DHS!

You definitely need to try the Writer's Stop! Yummy!


Yes, I think the photopass photographers are only there for the holidays! You're right, it could make for some great card pics!

hiding something?! I would never do that ;)

Ahhhh, the WL lobby, especially at Christmas time, is so gorgeous!! I love cozying up in a big rocking chair by the fireplace :thumbsup2

Oh I can't wait to finally try the Writers Stop! I don't know how I've missed it on every trip!

I LOVE sitting in that lobby and looking at that tree!!

You have to try the Writers Stop! It's soooo good! Especially considering disney coffee ;)

[TanzUnited99]

Yay on arriving at Disney World!! It sure is the best feeling!

Love the pics of WL and how festive it looks. Wow that cookie at The Writers Stop is huge!! I still have to pay that place a visit.

[manntra]

Love all of the THREE arches you went under!!! :goodvibes

VWL looks so pretty! I sooooooooo need to go during Christmas sometime :rolleyes1
I wanted the Kermit hat in October too and never ended up buying it :confused3 Checked on eBay when I got home and sure enough found one there...just looked for you now and there are Animal versions too ;)

So sweet of John to want to make sure you had your Birthday button :lovestruc Maybe next time you can send him a text to distract him when he is on his phone :rotfl:

Tracy

[MEK]

Wow! Deja vu. Everything looks strangely familiar. When we visited the WL for AP I was so disappointed I wasn't staying there, so I know WL at Christmas will definitely be in my future. :goodvibes

Great start to I'm sure what is going to be a great trip!

[eandesmom]

I love the lightpole tree! I imagine you are right, probably for the best that your room wasn't ready so you could make it to DHS. I have mixed feelings about WL at the holidays as it looks like home but I know it's gorgeous. :love: The writers stop.

I'm thinking we need a phone intervention for both of you. :goodvibes

[KatMark]

Merry Christmas to you and the family.


http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/poohchristmas.jpg

[ronnmel]

Joyeux Noel to you and your family!!

[Poolrat]

:santa: Merry Christmas :santa:

[mickeysmyboy]

Yay on arriving at Disney World!! It sure is the best feeling!

Love the pics of WL and how festive it looks. Wow that cookie at The Writers Stop is huge!! I still have to pay that place a visit.

Arriving at WDW is a truly magical feeling! I swear I relax a little and become a little happier just driving under that sign!

I love everything about WL, especially during the holidays!

The Writers Stop is soooo fabulous! That coffee helped get me through the evening!

Love all of the THREE arches you went under!!! :goodvibes

VWL looks so pretty! I sooooooooo need to go during Christmas sometime :rolleyes1
I wanted the Kermit hat in October too and never ended up buying it :confused3 Checked on eBay when I got home and sure enough found one there...just looked for you now and there are Animal versions too ;)

So sweet of John to want to make sure you had your Birthday button :lovestruc Maybe next time you can send him a text to distract him when he is on his phone :rotfl:

Tracy

Wow! Deja vu. Everything looks strangely familiar. When we visited the WL for AP I was so disappointed I wasn't staying there, so I know WL at Christmas will definitely be in my future. :goodvibes

Great start to I'm sure what is going to be a great trip!

I loved driving under all of those signs!!!

Ohhh! I have to check out ebay! Those hats are too darn cool!!!

:lmao: anything phone related would distract him!

I love the lightpole tree! I imagine you are right, probably for the best that your room wasn't ready so you could make it to DHS. I have mixed feelings about WL at the holidays as it looks like home but I know it's gorgeous. :love: The writers stop.

I'm thinking we need a phone intervention for both of you. :goodvibes

I can see you having mixed feelings about WL! That's why I'm coming to visit you one day! I just know I would love the pacific northwest!!!

:lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: I think you're right about the phone intervention!!

BTW, we were talking about cruises the other day and DH said no again but then he said "the only exception would be Alaska!" LOL! :lmao: I thought of you! One day I'm going to hold him to that!

Merry Christmas to you and the family.


http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/poohchristmas.jpg

Thank you!!! Hope you had a wonderful day!

Joyeux Noel to you and your family!!

Thank you!! Hope it was magical day for you as well!!

:santa: Merry Christmas :santa:

Thank you! Hope you had a great day!

[MEK]

Happy birthday tomorrow Melissa. I hope you have something great planned! party:

[jenjolt]

OOOH Happy early Bday Melissa!!! I share in MEK's sentiments...I hope you have a fabulous day planned!

[mickeysmyboy]

Happy birthday tomorrow Melissa. I hope you have something great planned! party:

:love: Thank you!! My plan so far is to sit on the couch and Dis ;)

OOOH Happy early Bday Melissa!!! I share in MEK's sentiments...I hope you have a fabulous day planned!

:love: Thank you!!!!

[mickeysmyboy]

Once we got off GMR it was a little after 3 so we decided to venture toward Mama Melrose. When we got there we found that it was completely mobbed! People, cranky people all over the place! But it was a Fantasmic night so I’m sure a lot of those people were there for the dinner package! I got in line to check in and the lady behind me was saying something about them telling people they couldn’t check-in until exactly their ADR time. We were still about 5 or 10 minutes off from our ADR but they let me check in! We waited a good 30 minutes before we were seated. The thing that puzzles me is that there were a lot of empty tables in the restaurant!! OK!?

I ordered Penne Alla Vodka and DH ordered Chicken Parmigiana. DH enjoyed his chicken and I really loved my Penne! I’m a huge fan of Penne alla Vodka and I find that a lot of times the vodka sauce has too much vodka in it! It kind of becomes over powering! This was perfect and sooo yummy! I’d love to have it right now!!

With full and happy bellies it was time for dessert! I ordered the Chocolate Cannoli Cake and DH ordered cheesecake! I also ordered a latte to help me get through the rest of the evening!

With dessert came this yummy little drink, I believe it was prosecco although the waiter couldn’t confirm. No matter, it was good and DH, who hates all wine and champagne, really liked it!

Dessert was also yummy! I really enjoyed my Cannoli Cake!

With our bellies even more full and happy it was time to head out!

Our goal for the day was really to see the Osborne Lights! It still wasn’t quite dark enough and definitely not 6:30 so we headed toward to main entrance to do some shopping! I browsed in Keystone Clothier and a few other shops, including the Christmas Shop!

http://inlinethumb44.webshots.com/47467/2387737860098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2387737860098269115SwugAE)

http://inlinethumb48.webshots.com/36463/2158398270098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2158398270098269115ihbUra)

Then we head over to the Streets of America!

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/49885/2876430040098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2876430040098269115LYIUkV)

We waited a little bit for the lights to be lit and were close enough to see the little girl who got to do the honors and her HUGE smile! It was very cool!

We thoroughly enjoyed the lights! I can’t tell you how happy those lights make me! Well, I think it’s the combo of the lights, the music and the snow!

I took a video of the dancing with phone! So, please enjoy The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights through my phone and camera!

http://inlinethumb32.webshots.com/47711/2421610990098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2421610990098269115lYlqvi)

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video,

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j154/mommymissy27/th_IMG_0145.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j154/mommymissy27/?action=view&current=IMG_0145.mp4)
After the light
s we headed out of DHS, honestly I have very little recollection of the trip back to WL other then we self parked when we got back!

Then it was off to room 4011!! For a few cold drinks, getting our stuff from Bell Services and settling in!!! After a long but fun day it was lovely to enjoy our fabulous room and get a good night sleep! Hopefully day 2 would go as well as day 1!?

[Poolrat]

Always a nice way to start, by seeing the lights.

I will be doing the same in 2 days!! :cool1:

[jenjolt]

WOW those lights are just so gorgeous!! You took some very amazing pictures!!! LOVE IT!!!!

Glad your dinner went so well!!! I'm definitely looking forward to your day 2!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! :cool1::banana::cool1::hug:

[2xcited2sleep]

The lights are super festive! The one time I saw them in person it was so mobbed that you were almost carried along the street in a sea of people... that was not so fun but there's no denying they are GORGEOUS!

So glad day #1 was a hit and hoping day #2 was more of the same! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

I really enjoyed the lights this trip as well. And to think I was almost going to skip them, but Nick insisted we go and I'm so glad he did. They were fabulous. Really better than ever and it surprisingly was not crowded. I took about 130 pictures and we even stood in line for a photopass picture. :goodvibes

So loved your video when you posted it on fb, but obviously can't see it now.

So glad you enjoyed you meal. I have always liked mama melrose even though it often gets bad reviews.

[oopsiDAISY]

Someday we will make it down for Christmas! I grew up in FL in the 80's and Christmas was our favorite time to see Disney. :lovestruc That was before "MGM" and AK were even open! :eek: I would love to see it now...someday! popcorn::

[manntra]

Seems like some cases of temper tummy at Mama Melrose with the cranky people on line :rolleyes: Mmm I love vodka sauce also and know exactly what you mean about the vodka.

Love all of your Osborne light photos and video. What a wonderful day and night. :goodvibes

Hope you are enjoying your special day today!! :hug:

party::bday::bday:party::bday:party:party::bday:pa rty::bday:party::bday:

Tracy

[ronnmel]

Soooooooo pretty. I really really really hope one day I get to visit WDW around Christmas time to enjoy all of the Holiday decorations and those wonderful lights.

[marDgreen88]

The Osborne Lights really are spectacular, aren't they? I can't even find the right words to describe them because nothing can do them justice. You got some great pictures!

[xoktenox]

Yummmm, Mama Melrose's is good! I love me some penne ala vodka, too!

The Osborne Lights are beauuuutiful! Great pictures :thumbsup2

Ahhh, sounds like a relaxing night back at the WL. Can't wait to hear about day 2!

[mickeysmyboy]

WOW those lights are just so gorgeous!! You took some very amazing pictures!!! LOVE IT!!!!

Glad your dinner went so well!!! I'm definitely looking forward to your day 2!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! :cool1::banana::cool1::hug:

I love the lights!! It was kinda crowded and we were tired that night! I just wish we could have gone back again!

Thank you for the birthday wishes!!!

Always a nice way to start, by seeing the lights.

I will be doing the same in 2 days!! :cool1:

It was a fabulous way to start the trip! Hope you have a great trip!!

The lights are super festive! The one time I saw them in person it was so mobbed that you were almost carried along the street in a sea of people... that was not so fun but there's no denying they are GORGEOUS!

So glad day #1 was a hit and hoping day #2 was more of the same! :thumbsup2

That's how it was when we saw it on the last night a few years ago! It was insane and it made me really nervous with the kids! I just about had an anxiety attack!!

I really enjoyed the lights this trip as well. And to think I was almost going to skip them, but Nick insisted we go and I'm so glad he did. They were fabulous. Really better than ever and it surprisingly was not crowded. I took about 130 pictures and we even stood in line for a photopass picture. :goodvibes

So loved your video when you posted it on fb, but obviously can't see it now.

So glad you enjoyed you meal. I have always liked mama melrose even though it often gets bad reviews.

I'm glad you saw the lights! It would have been a shame to miss them! They rally put me in the holiday mood!

I feel the same way about Mama Melrose! This was the 3rd time we've eaten there and I can't say a bad thing about it!!

Seems like some cases of temper tummy at Mama Melrose with the cranky people on line :rolleyes: Mmm I love vodka sauce also and know exactly what you mean about the vodka.

Love all of your Osborne light photos and video. What a wonderful day and night. :goodvibes

Hope you are enjoying your special day today!! :hug:

party::bday::bday:party::bday:party:party::bday:pa rty::bday:party::bday:

Tracy

I'm on the search for a good vodka sauce recipe!! I bought a jar of classico vodka sauce last week and it was NASTY!! GROSS!!

Thanks for the birthday wishes!!

Soooooooo pretty. I really really really hope one day I get to visit WDW around Christmas time to enjoy all of the Holiday decorations and those wonderful lights.

I hope you do too!! It's totally worth the trip! So beautiful!

The Osborne Lights really are spectacular, aren't they? I can't even find the right words to describe them because nothing can do them justice. You got some great pictures!

You're right! Nothing does them justice! I just love them!!

Yummmm, Mama Melrose's is good! I love me some penne ala vodka, too!

The Osborne Lights are beauuuutiful! Great pictures :thumbsup2

Ahhh, sounds like a relaxing night back at the WL. Can't wait to hear about day 2!

I could go for some good penne ala vodka right now!!

I love the lights!!

[KatMark]

Dang...how did I miss an update.

We have never been at the holidays, and your pictures of the Osborne Lights have me very hungry for a Christmas trip.

Thank you for sharing.

[mickeysmyboy]

Dang...how did I miss an update.

We have never been at the holidays, and your pictures of the Osborne Lights have me very hungry for a Christmas trip.

Thank you for sharing.

Oh, that's quite alright! I miss numerous updates and am constantly catching up!!

You really, really should go during the holidays! It's sooo beautiful!

[mickeysmyboy]

Day 2!

Day 2 started early for me! My internal clock had not really adjusted to vacation time yet! On most vacations my clock never really adjusts and I end up early everyday! When I was up and in the shower at 6 ish I prayed that my clock would adjust and I would be able to sleep late a few days!

I got myself ready and had a cup of coffee! Then I let DH know I was going for a walk and headed out to walk around my favorite resort!

I’ll admit, my love of WL had me snapping away with the camera! I hope you're prepared!!

First, I went downstairs and took a picture of my favorite hallway (yes, I know it’s weird to have a favorite hallway! But, I LOVE this hallway!)

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/35777/2367580480098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2367580480098269115BYBfNO)

Then I went outside!

Silver Creeks Falls and it’s surroundings…

http://inlinethumb38.webshots.com/47525/2006829750098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2006829750098269115IuhLPM)

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Then I decided to head down toward the dock because it was still very early and I knew the sun hadn’t really risen too much!

Along the way...

http://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/47230/2984843700098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2984843700098269115fdZFPB)

I found a bush with beautiful purple berries! Purple is my favorite color!

http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/47939/2458027310098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2458027310098269115kuVLgh)

The walkway…

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/50101/2094512090098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2094512090098269115bEQoND)

Spanish Moss for Charleston Princess…

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/48332/2743757630098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2743757630098269115ycyIcZ)

http://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/41982/2694400640098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2694400640098269115muYCDg)

Down at the dock…

http://inlinethumb23.webshots.com/46742/2696324750098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2696324750098269115vuUsSV)

http://inlinethumb50.webshots.com/48113/2703922350098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2703922350098269115hcBdvh)

Continued next post...

[mickeysmyboy]

Then it was time to head toward the Villas!

On the way…

http://inlinethumb31.webshots.com/24862/2563997840098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2563997840098269115uxUwNo)

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http://inlinethumb03.webshots.com/49602/2293641310098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2293641310098269115GvfisE)

I must admit that once I got to the villas I was a teensy bit nervous about trying to enter because weren’t staying there! But, I decided that if for some reason a CM stopped me I would explain that we are DVC members and wanted to stay at the villas but couldn’t get a reservation! Silly I know!

So, into the villas I went...

http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/50140/2004431340098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2004431340098269115yQNSae)

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http://inlinethumb24.webshots.com/46807/2036372700098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2036372700098269115djfjED)

http://inlinethumb51.webshots.com/50098/2274305040098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2274305040098269115jkDZiL)

http://inlinethumb62.webshots.com/46461/2851717910098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2851717910098269115decfWG)

http://inlinethumb09.webshots.com/28680/2086464840098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2086464840098269115kDqlud)

I thought the lights outside of Sturdy Branches Health Club were cute!

http://inlinethumb18.webshots.com/48593/2111426520098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2111426520098269115zAmkQe)

Moving upstairs...

http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/46975/2697411500098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2697411500098269115hMyqvg)

http://inlinethumb23.webshots.com/48406/2549430280098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2549430280098269115zJVSUy)

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/49996/2196784740098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2196784740098269115GUUbMw)

http://inlinethumb27.webshots.com/47962/2372669420098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2372669420098269115WpZOis)

Continued next post...

[mickeysmyboy]

Walking back to the main building…

http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/47796/2117703940098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2117703940098269115jGLexS)

http://inlinethumb57.webshots.com/47096/2924815870098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2924815870098269115fTvCBX)

In WL…

http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/49663/2042983950098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2042983950098269115iaCjSB)

http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/46890/2618467470098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2618467470098269115lWQPii)

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/47820/2337937760098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2337937760098269115IkYeqA)

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/47590/2359704090098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2359704090098269115pBDKXY)

http://inlinethumb31.webshots.com/47198/2270835820098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2270835820098269115oTyNYL)

Christmas tree ornaments...

http://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/49214/2210932500098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2210932500098269115bTggQc)

http://inlinethumb24.webshots.com/50071/2306282140098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2306282140098269115ornfvg)

http://inlinethumb25.webshots.com/48728/2786610210098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2786610210098269115WniJcA)

http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/49684/2091600480098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2091600480098269115ypQZrd)

Cute tree by the front door...

http://inlinethumb38.webshots.com/49189/2293863840098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2293863840098269115qNxPix)

So many cool things in WL...
http://inlinethumb25.webshots.com/48280/2424686890098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2424686890098269115jUNXso)

http://inlinethumb16.webshots.com/50191/2645984600098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2645984600098269115nrxhKr)

http://inlinethumb47.webshots.com/47918/2317423740098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2317423740098269115jSXOnP)

I don't suppose DH could build me a room just like this at home...

http://inlinethumb57.webshots.com/46648/2308298710098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2308298710098269115LCpbrx)

Oh Christmas Tree...

http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/47764/2201387260098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2201387260098269115NpHKmf)

Love these Chandeliers!

http://inlinethumb52.webshots.com/49395/2071570980098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2071570980098269115IbsZqG)

I believe I sat for a few minutes in that lovely alcove and rested! Then it was time to weave my way back along the 4th floor of WL to our room to wake DH and get a move on!

Up next, Christmas at the Monorail Resorts!!!!!

[KatMark]

What beautiful Christmas decorations and foilage.

[eandesmom]

Oh that walkway photo with the lantern made me smile and remember our photo shoot. What wonderful pictures and a lovely lovely morning walk!!!

[Grumpy's Wife]

Great pictures! The Wilderness Lodge is definitely on my list of places to stay. I'm looking forward to hearing all about your trip without the kids. That's also on my to do list one day. :rotfl:

[MEK]

Gorgeous pictures! They make me a little sad that I did not get to stay there in December. I was so tired after dinner at AP that we never did make it over to see the villas. But, I will definitely be visiting VWL in the future at winter time. Cynthia and I actually have our October ressie there right now, but we will be trying to switch at 7 months.

I hear ya on the internal clock. It takes me 6 to 7 days to reset mine on vacation. Stinks, doesn't it? Especially when you are out late but you still wake up at 6am.

[mickeysmyboy]

What beautiful Christmas decorations and foilage.

That's why I love WL at Christmas and in general!! :lovestruc

Oh that walkway photo with the lantern made me smile and remember our photo shoot. What wonderful pictures and a lovely lovely morning walk!!!

We have to have pictures done at WL again!! I love the setting! I really enjoyed my walk! It was such a nice way to start our first full day!

Great pictures! The Wilderness Lodge is definitely on my list of places to stay. I'm looking forward to hearing all about your trip without the kids. That's also on my to do list one day. :rotfl:

I LOVE WL!! I highly recommend a trip with no kids! It's very different and so nice!

Gorgeous pictures! They make me a little sad that I did not get to stay there in December. I was so tired after dinner at AP that we never did make it over to see the villas. But, I will definitely be visiting VWL in the future at winter time. Cynthia and I actually have our October ressie there right now, but we will be trying to switch at 7 months.

I hear ya on the internal clock. It takes me 6 to 7 days to reset mine on vacation. Stinks, doesn't it? Especially when you are out late but you still wake up at 6am.

Thanks MaryEllen!! I love WL so much! I definitely need to stay at VWL!

UGH! I hate the stupid internal clock!! I don't understand how it could be that I was up at like 3:45 in the morning the morning before, traveled, walked around DHS until 7:30 ish and then settled into the room and I still ended up being wide awake at 6 am!! Boo!!

[Mndisneygirl]

Beautiful pictures of Osborne and WL!! We had to leave town right after Christmas and have been gone until last night, so I've felt like I missed a holiday week - so this was just what I needed!!!

I think I might like to stay at WL one of these days. Of course, I'd like to stay at all of them one day!!!

I'd also like to go without kids one day - unfortunately, my DH thinks we should wait until they're "gone out of the house". They aren't going anywhere for at least 8 years!!!! Sigh. So I will enjoy a trip without kids through you! Thanks!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

No need to feel weird citing a favorite hallway here. I myself have a favorite hallway, scent, lobby chair and restroom... :laughing:

Wilderness Lodge is positively gorgeous at holiday time. Glad you had an opportunity to take a photo tour but sorry it was at the butt crack of dawn while on vacation! :rolleyes: Darn those internal clocks! But I do find that mine adjusts much more quickly to vacation than it does to a work schedule. :rolleyes:

Great to hear positive reviews of Mama Melrose. I have yet to try it but it's definitely on "the list." I emailed you a recipe I tried recently for tomato vodka soup. So good with grilled cheese!!! :cloud9:

[marDgreen88]

Wow, Wilderness Lodge is just gorgeous. :) Thanks for sharing those pics!

[mickeysmyboy]

Beautiful pictures of Osborne and WL!! We had to leave town right after Christmas and have been gone until last night, so I've felt like I missed a holiday week - so this was just what I needed!!!

I think I might like to stay at WL one of these days. Of course, I'd like to stay at all of them one day!!!

I'd also like to go without kids one day - unfortunately, my DH thinks we should wait until they're "gone out of the house". They aren't going anywhere for at least 8 years!!!! Sigh. So I will enjoy a trip without kids through you! Thanks!!!

I'm so sorry you missed out on Christmas week!! But, I'm glad my pics helped!

You definitely should stay at WL one day! I love it there!!

A kids free trip is so different then with the kids. It's so much more relaxing, so much more of going at your own pace, more eating great food instead of chicken nuggets, etc! It's just amazing!!

No need to feel weird citing a favorite hallway here. I myself have a favorite hallway, scent, lobby chair and restroom... :laughing:

Wilderness Lodge is positively gorgeous at holiday time. Glad you had an opportunity to take a photo tour but sorry it was at the butt crack of dawn while on vacation! :rolleyes: Darn those internal clocks! But I do find that mine adjusts much more quickly to vacation than it does to a work schedule. :rolleyes:

Great to hear positive reviews of Mama Melrose. I have yet to try it but it's definitely on "the list." I emailed you a recipe I tried recently for tomato vodka soup. So good with grilled cheese!!! :cloud9:

:lmao: Thanks! I have lots of favorites all over WDW! Maybe that should be a post! hmmm...

I love WL anyway of the week but at the holidays it's just that much better!

It stinks to get up at the butt crack of dawn! But, I seem to getting better about that! I slept late this whole week! Woo too!!

I really enjoyed the meal at Mama Melrose! Thank you for the recipe! I can't wait to try it!!

Wow, Wilderness Lodge is just gorgeous. :) Thanks for sharing those pics!

[TanzUnited99]

Eek at the wait for Mama Melrose! I'm glad the food made the wait worthwhile.

Wow love the pics and video of the Osborne lights - they look amazing!!!

Also great pics of WL - it looks very festive with all the Christmas decorations.

[manntra]

Oooh I love your favorite hallway too!!! ;)Thanks for the walking tour....seeing that I have never been there in person :rolleyes1 It really is a beautiful resort and between your and ME's stunning pictures I should get over there some day....although I think their # of villas is on the smaller side availability wise maybe.


Tracy

[Poolrat]

All caught up from trip to the world. I had a chance to walk over to the villas too. So pretty especially during the holidays.


The Osborne lights are empty during the hour the park is open and during EMH. My favorite time for maximum effect. :love:

[tinacaplan]

Stopping in to say hello! I'll be back in a while to read more!

[glennbo123]

Signing on! Melissa, what a great TR title for a December trip. :thumbsup2

Great pictures of all of the decorations, and especially Wilderness Lodge. I know just where that favorite hallway of yours is.

[jeremysdisneymom]

I'm here!

I love your pictures of the WL at Christmas! It is so beautiful there.

The Osborne lights were amazing this year. I loved them in LED.

Can't wait to read more.

[mickeysmyboy]

Eek at the wait for Mama Melrose! I'm glad the food made the wait worthwhile.

Wow love the pics and video of the Osborne lights - they look amazing!!!

Also great pics of WL - it looks very festive with all the Christmas decorations.

It was a crazy wait for Mama Melrose! People were getting so cranky!

The Osborne lights are amazing!

I love, love, love WL at Christmas!!

Oooh I love your favorite hallway too!!! ;)Thanks for the walking tour....seeing that I have never been there in person :rolleyes1 It really is a beautiful resort and between your and ME's stunning pictures I should get over there some day....although I think their # of villas is on the smaller side availability wise maybe.


Tracy

I really love that hallway! You've never been to WL?! Ever?! At least you have to try Artist Point!

All caught up from trip to the world. I had a chance to walk over to the villas too. So pretty especially during the holidays.


The Osborne lights are empty during the hour the park is open and during EMH. My favorite time for maximum effect. :love:

Welcome home!! I hope you had a great trip!

The lights weren't nearly as crowded this time as they were last year! I think a lot of people were at Fantasmic!

Stopping in to say hello! I'll be back in a while to read more!

Welcome!!

Signing on! Melissa, what a great TR title for a December trip. :thumbsup2

Great pictures of all of the decorations, and especially Wilderness Lodge. I know just where that favorite hallway of yours is.

Welcome!! I stole the title from a shirt! Not kidding!

I love WDW during the holidays! Especially WL!

I'm here!

I love your pictures of the WL at Christmas! It is so beautiful there.

The Osborne lights were amazing this year. I loved them in LED.

Can't wait to read more.

Welcome!!

I totally agree about the lights!! They seemed more colorful!!

[mickeysmyboy]

So, while DH got ready I sat on the balcony and enjoyed another cup of coffee! Funny thing about the coffee! I made sure like 15 times before I packed up our Owners Lockers in October that I had coffee filters and sugar packets for coffee for this trip! I bought ground coffee at Dunkin Donuts and double and triple checked that I had packed it before we left home! Which I did! I even remembered to buy milk in the Merchantile the night before so I could have real coffee. BUT, the coffee maker in our room was a pod machine! Darn it!! I was kinda bummed! I decided to try the pod packets and if I hated it I would call housekeeping and ask for a different machine! But, the pods were quite good! So I was happy!

With DH ready it was time for breakfast! So we headed down to Roaring Forks! I believe DH got a breakfast platter while I got a fruit and a croissant, had to balance the good with a little bad ;)

We sat outside because it was an absolutely beautiful morning! With full bellies and faces warmed by the beautiful morning sun we head down to the boat dock to get a ferry to the Contemporary!

Lets take a little holiday tour of the Contemporary shall we?

First, the pool!

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/39398/2263076080098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2263076080098269115XxWXWo)

http://inlinethumb36.webshots.com/47971/2118186250098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2118186250098269115YCZYch)

Ahhhh, palm tree!

http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/49151/2440472930098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2440472930098269115SpLgpp)

My favorite topiary!

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/49510/2944823870098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2944823870098269115rmBAMW)

I’ve seen this it many a TR!

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/49040/2925592420098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2925592420098269115wloBNB)

The main building!

http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/46900/2877351940098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2877351940098269115NBeHPs)

We went through the main building and I went outside for a minute…

http://inlinethumb51.webshots.com/49330/2176386990098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2176386990098269115CcTvQM)

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/48976/2139757900098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2139757900098269115eiSKCb)

The tree in the lobby!

http://inlinethumb33.webshots.com/49248/2282176470098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2282176470098269115FqXkyQ)

Front desk, where I spent I ridiculous amount of time while checking in in October

http://inlinethumb22.webshots.com/47573/2302185000098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2302185000098269115MpEoYd)

Decorations!

http://inlinethumb60.webshots.com/47483/2098179650098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2098179650098269115BpdEUw)

http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/49940/2318406920098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2318406920098269115NQsWvX)

Lobby light fixture!

http://inlinethumb08.webshots.com/47495/2328071820098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2328071820098269115pTztDr)

Then we moved upstairs to see what we had really come to see! The holiday display!

http://inlinethumb07.webshots.com/49094/2394258550098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2394258550098269115exHfST)

http://inlinethumb15.webshots.com/50446/2401982080098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2401982080098269115uOWagp)

http://inlinethumb42.webshots.com/49321/2473791920098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2473791920098269115LTZYGR)

LOVE the IASW people!

http://inlinethumb03.webshots.com/49090/2907865970098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2907865970098269115imYkuN)

http://inlinethumb05.webshots.com/47172/2963518130098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2963518130098269115XsxrBQ)

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/46913/2475554280098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2475554280098269115tEVbcN)

I also LOVED the Gingerbread Contemporary!

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/48541/2768756590098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2768756590098269115zjyHKp)

John, however, mocked me for taking a picture of it! I believe his comment was something about how next I’ll be taking pictures of gum on the ground or something like that! Boo!

Cute ornament trees in the shop!

http://inlinethumb25.webshots.com/50264/2436451170098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2436451170098269115tfSuUc)

http://inlinethumb40.webshots.com/47143/2462465460098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2462465460098269115RLdCbq)

I think next year my glue gun and I will create something of the sort!

Very nice wreath!

http://inlinethumb48.webshots.com/44911/2458505390098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2458505390098269115skwVuP)

Having had our fill of the Contemporary we hopped on the monorail and headed to Poly!

CONTINUED NEXT POST...

[mickeysmyboy]

I really love Poly! Not as much as WL, but a lot! I just love the setting and I love that I feel like I’m in some tropical paradise, not a theme park Mecca! I wasn’t really feeling the tropical Christmas vibe though! It was more like Poly with a Christmas an a few decorations! Oh well!

Tree just inside the door from the monorail!

http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/47107/2697485500098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2697485500098269115uTkBVT)

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/43893/2928817420098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2928817420098269115UetdfO)

http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/47324/2329791240098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2329791240098269115kaHESR)

http://inlinethumb37.webshots.com/49508/2973343970098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2973343970098269115ZDyFGZ)

Tree downstairs!

http://inlinethumb60.webshots.com/47739/2105676470098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2105676470098269115iaHhnZ)

A few decorations

http://inlinethumb33.webshots.com/49824/2242431000098269115S500x500Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2242431000098269115uqVloD)

Then we moved outside!

http://inlinethumb42.webshots.com/49641/2706480430098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2706480430098269115dQpVip)

http://inlinethumb18.webshots.com/48337/2541080750098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2541080750098269115nNjnfp)


I LOVE Sunset Point! LOVE IT!

http://inlinethumb40.webshots.com/49895/2614564920098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2614564920098269115hciYFA)

http://inlinethumb55.webshots.com/50102/2330446940098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2330446940098269115gplmBP)

http://inlinethumb48.webshots.com/46575/2739332920098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2739332920098269115uVxBYD)

One of my favorite pics of the trip!

http://inlinethumb46.webshots.com/49837/2813926870098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2813926870098269115vmDmjc)

A little green guy who was enjoying that flower a lot

http://inlinethumb38.webshots.com/48485/2627028430098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2627028430098269115RDCEoj)

More Poly sites!

http://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/19420/2494742980098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2494742980098269115XUcZfV)

http://inlinethumb08.webshots.com/47175/2216614560098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2216614560098269115bnCTTd)

With our trip to Poly complete we hopped on the monorail and got off at the next stop! Ahhhh, GF! How beautiful you are!

CONTINUED NEXT POST...

[mickeysmyboy]

I was very much looking forward to seeing the tree and, of course, the Gingerbread House!

So, here goes!

A beautiful wreath just inside from the Monorail!

http://inlinethumb31.webshots.com/49438/2386448460098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2386448460098269115AqYgxt)

The tree!!!!

http://inlinethumb22.webshots.com/47381/2024386880098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2024386880098269115CBVhfO)

And the Gingerbread House!

http://inlinethumb37.webshots.com/49764/2574561580098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2574561580098269115jWwaiJ)

I must admit, there were soooo many people it was a little hard to get close!

But, I did my best!

http://inlinethumb10.webshots.com/48969/2651317930098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2651317930098269115XsZJoJ)
Notice the people inside the ropes!? Yeah, very nice!

http://inlinethumb58.webshots.com/46329/2459985590098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2459985590098269115rpCgXv)

http://inlinethumb24.webshots.com/48215/2508553510098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2508553510098269115QKkPEh)

http://inlinethumb59.webshots.com/48890/2555551090098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2555551090098269115vXNzlI)

I also did a little shopping!

I got online to get a few goodies to take home to the kids! The line wasn’t long, but it moved kinda slow. With the tiny little space inside the house for the shop there was only one girl working inside.

This lead me to the most annoying experience (aside from DH’s love affair with his phone) of the trip! A family got online behind me. Mom and 2 teenagers, a boy and a girl. We moved up in line and they started discussing how the house was made and talking about the wood base, blah, blah, blah. Then they decided to debate the edibleness of the house! UGH! So, sister dares brother to break a piece off and taste it! SAY WHAT?! Mom says nothing! The brother takes the dare and does it! Yup, it’s gingerbread! They all chuckle! Including Mom! Yup!!

So we move forward a little more and the 2 adorable older ladies in front of me really enjoy spending time at the window and picking out their purchases! Fine by me because they were super sweet, super nice and just generally in awe of the Gingerbread House and GF in general! Because of the arrangement of the house and the counter there is room for 2 or 3 people to be comfortably at the counter at a time. I was able to look while they did their thing and once one of the ladies had happily made her purchase I was able to start picking things up! 3 each of 2 different types of chocolate lollipops, 3 shingles and something for DH, can’t remember what!

The whole time I stood at the counter with the 2 ladies in front of me the annoying family behind me was reaching over me, around me, bumping me and evening rubbing up against my purse! Really?! I was tempted to ask them if A) they where in some sort of hurry and needed to go ahead of or B) were trying to mug me or something! But, I refrained! The sad thing is, I reallllllllly loved the gingerbread houses they had for sale! I really wanted to ask the girl if and how they shipped them! But, I just wanted to get off the line and away from Incredibly Annoying Family!

With my purchases in hand we were off to tour the grounds of GF!

First a few more christmas tree pics..

http://inlinethumb62.webshots.com/48893/2863190310098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2863190310098269115YXryts)

http://inlinethumb15.webshots.com/43726/2593533950098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2593533950098269115gYvtcQ)

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/47952/2697947310098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2697947310098269115OfPzdS)

Then outside...

http://inlinethumb58.webshots.com/15289/2670520400098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2670520400098269115PpPhUf)

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/48102/2495868630098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2495868630098269115xOERoZ)

http://inlinethumb49.webshots.com/49968/2980179000098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2980179000098269115TyoinY)

http://inlinethumb22.webshots.com/48917/2181379630098269115S600x600Q85.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2181379630098269115CmrmUn)

During our tour we both realized that we were getting hungry but it was nowhere near our 12:50 lunch adr at GF Café. But we headed over and found the place empty and were seated immediately!

I believe we opted to pay cash for this ADR but I could be wrong! I can’t remember! We both ordered Crab Cakes for an appetizer! They were very good! For lunch we both got the rustic chicken sandwich. DH thought it was very good, I thought it was meh! I didn’t like the marinade! It made the chicken very wet. When it was time we dessert we debated having dessert at all, but decided to go for it! It was vacation afterall and we had no dinner arrangements for the evening!

I ordered Chocolate Hazlenut Mousse Cake. DH ordered New York Style Lemon Cheesecake, without the lemon! Not kidding here folks! The waitress and I chuckled! I felt kinda bad laughing. DH is a simple kinda guy, especially when it comes to food! He wanted cheesecake, not lemon. I explained to him that the lemon was baked into the cheesecake and they really meet that request! He was ok with that and as it turned out, he really the cheesecake! I also really enjoyed my cake!

Then it was time to head back to WL! We took the monorail to MK and got off and took the boat!

Back at WL it was time to relax it a beautiful and serene setting! But would there be poolside drinks involved!?

[marDgreen88]

Oh my goodness, the monorail resorts are SO pretty! I love the Christmas decorations!

Okay, SERIOUSLY? I can't believe that kid's mom just let him deface Disney property... not to mention the fact that it wasn't like the gingerbread was brand new and who knows what (or who) could have touched it! That's just outrageous.

Anyways... great update! All the pictures were great. :)

[mickeysmyboy]

Oh my goodness, the monorail resorts are SO pretty! I love the Christmas decorations!

Okay, SERIOUSLY? I can't believe that kid's mom just let him deface Disney property... not to mention the fact that it wasn't like the gingerbread was brand new and who knows what (or who) could have touched it! That's just outrageous.

Anyways... great update! All the pictures were great. :)

Aren't they pretty?! LOVE them!

RIGHT?! :scared1: Honestly, I should have mentioned that very same thing! Because after want to scream at them for doing it the next thought I had was, the house has been up for a fews now, the gingerbread isn't fresh, 9 million different people from 9 million different places have been through here and potential touch the house. I'm one of those "don't touch that!" kinda mom's! I was completely skeeved out! I kinda hope he got sick from it :snooty:

[MEK]

Well, I am reading your update without benefit of the pictures and I am sure they are totally lovely. We also managed to visit the GF and the gingerbread house this trip. We, however, did not have time for the Poly. Boo! I was actually shocked at how short the line was. Uggghhhhh to that annoying family. That would make me want to get out of that line ASAP too! :sad2:

It sounds like you had a lovely morning/afternoon. My short trip did not afford me a chance to spend much time outside of the parks, but it certainly sounds wonderful. :goodvibes

[jeremysdisneymom]

Beautiful pictures of the resorts! We didn't make it to the Poly in November so I enjoyed look at yours.

What a rude family at the Gingerbread House! My son and I encountered a lot more rude people on our trip. Parents who seemed to have a lot less sense than their children!!! :confused3

[mickeysmyboy]

Well, I am reading your update without benefit of the pictures and I am sure they are totally lovely. We also managed to visit the GF and the gingerbread house this trip. We, however, did not have time for the Poly. Boo! I was actually shocked at how short the line was. Uggghhhhh to that annoying family. That would make me want to get out of that line ASAP too! :sad2:

It sounds like you had a lovely morning/afternoon. My short trip did not afford me a chance to spend much time outside of the parks, but it certainly sounds wonderful. :goodvibes

Well, you just have to come back later to see them! ;) I really, really needed to get away from that family!

I loved our time that day! It was so amazing and so relaxing!! A little bit of heaven and a whole lot of Disney Magic! :cloud9:

Beautiful pictures of the resorts! We didn't make it to the Poly in November so I enjoyed look at yours.

What a rude family at the Gingerbread House! My son and I encountered a lot more rude people on our trip. Parents who seemed to have a lot less sense than their children!!! :confused3

I'm glad to have provided you with a Poly Christmas! Honestly, I'd love to stay there again, not at christmas, but sometime! I wonder if they'll ever do DVC!

You are soooo right about people having less sense then their kids!! Who is the kids supposed to learn from? I don't think I'm overly strict, far from it, but my kids know how to act and how not to and what the consequences are!

[eandesmom]

Oh man, that family sounds incredibly annoying, I'd have probably said something. Who DOES that? Deface property like that. Encourages their child to do it? The germs part is disgusting enough but the utter lack of respect some folks have boggles my mind. I want folks like that to get caught, yelled at and yeah, maybe get sick from the Gingerbread. I do console myself with what comes around goes around...it really does.

Fun morning monorail tour and wonderful pictures! Bummer about the coffee, did you end up having to buy more pods at the store?

[mickeysmyboy]

Oh man, that family sounds incredibly annoying, I'd have probably said something. Who DOES that? Deface property like that. Encourages their child to do it? The germs part is disgusting enough but the utter lack of respect some folks have boggles my mind. I want folks like that to get caught, yelled at and yeah, maybe get sick from the Gingerbread. I do console myself with what comes around goes around...it really does.

Fun morning monorail tour and wonderful pictures! Bummer about the coffee, did you end up having to buy more pods at the store?

They were super annoying! It was very difficult for me to hold my tongue!! I was really hoping a CM would happen past and see. But no such luck! I really karma came back to bite them!

It really was a great morning!

I didn't end up buying more but I did end up taking a few from the housekeeping cart! More on that later...

[archdandy]

Great trip report so far! What a wonderful and relaxing idea, to check out the different displays and decorations at the resorts! :goodvibes It sounds like you had a fun morning besides the rude family.

[mickeysmyboy]

Great trip report so far! What a wonderful and relaxing idea, to check out the different displays and decorations at the resorts! :goodvibes It sounds like you had a fun morning besides the rude family.

Thank you and welcome! It was such a nice, relaxing morning!

[DisMomAmy]

I often wonder what's wrong with people. :sad2: Eating the GF gingerbread house! :scared1: Crazy!

The resort pictures are beautiful!! :goodvibes

[jenjolt]

HOLY COW :scared1: They ate a piece off of the gingerbread house...really?!?!? That is just nutz!!

Sorry you had to deal with the horribly annoying family!!!

However what beautiful pictures of the resorts!!!! Thank you for sharing!

[pooh'smate]

Wow that family!!! It is amazing how little respect people have for others and things these days. I loved all your pictures, they made me feel like I was there.

[Mndisneygirl]

Boy, they're really letting in just any old riff raff these days! Eating a piece of a display? I would not have been able to keep quiet. I imagine my kids would have said something loud enough for them to hear too!! :laughing: I can see why you would want to get away from them.

[wigdoutdismom]

I just found this, so heading back to read!!!!:yay:

[2xcited2sleep]

What a fun "no parks" day! I did a monorail tour for the first time last year and had a blast. Hoping we can do a tour in May, perhaps. Oy to that family. WHO lets their kid break off a piece to see if it is real???? :confused3. I get wondering if it is real but to destroy someone's hard work?? That is just awful! And those " poor" Disney CMs who have to keep a smile on their faces at all times. Must be tough when you see stuff like this!

[TanzUnited99]

Yay on touring the monorail resorts and taking pretty pictures of all the Christmas decorations!! They all look so pretty!

Having seen a recent programme about the making of the Gingerbread House and how it is put together it's nice to see a shot of the finished product.

Ugh at the annoying family and the way they were behaving - it sure is surprising how some moms act to what their children are doing.

[KatMark]

Melissa, I love the pictures of all the decorations at the three monorail resorts -- beautiful.

What was that couple doing inside the rope? :headache:

Sounds like your meal was a success at the GF Cafe.

[manntra]

[QUOTE=eandesmom;43650943] I want folks like that to get caught, yelled at and yeah, maybe get sick from the Gingerbread. I do console myself with what comes around goes around...it really does.
/QUOTE]

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

What is wrong with people?!! Ha you should have asked her if she needed to go ahead of you but with your luck she would have bumped into you and hit your phone :headache: I hope he got sick too. I am a freak about washing my hands and I couldn't imagine how many little paws had touched the house :scared1:

Might just have to do another monorail tour in May with a stop at the Poly for a lapu lapu. :rolleyes1

Tracy

[mickeysmyboy]

I often wonder what's wrong with people. :sad2: Eating the GF gingerbread house! :scared1: Crazy!

The resort pictures are beautiful!! :goodvibes


I know!!!! Crazy, dumb people! Grrr!!!


HOLY COW :scared1: They ate a piece off of the gingerbread house...really?!?!? That is just nutz!!

Sorry you had to deal with the horribly annoying family!!!

However what beautiful pictures of the resorts!!!! Thank you for sharing!

They were ridiculous!! What the heck is wrong with people!!!!!


Wow that family!!! It is amazing how little respect people have for others and things these days. I loved all your pictures, they made me feel like I was there.

Grrrrr!! I just don't get it!!



Boy, they're really letting in just any old riff raff these days! Eating a piece of a display? I would not have been able to keep quiet. I imagine my kids would have said something loud enough for them to hear too!! :laughing: I can see why you would want to get away from them.

:lmao: You are so right!!!!! I had a really hard time not saying anything. Honestly, Sometimes I think I lack the filter that people are supposed to have to keep them from saying things that they shouldn't. If I had said something it may not have ended well!

I just found this, so heading back to read!!!!:yay:

Welcome Anita!

What a fun "no parks" day! I did a monorail tour for the first time last year and had a blast. Hoping we can do a tour in May, perhaps. Oy to that family. WHO lets their kid break off a piece to see if it is real???? :confused3. I get wondering if it is real but to destroy someone's hard work?? That is just awful! And those " poor" Disney CMs who have to keep a smile on their faces at all times. Must be tough when you see stuff like this!

It was a fun day!! I definitely hope we can do it in May! I didn't get a Lapu Lapu! It was too early and the bar wasn't open!

I truly think that parents and kids like those people are a lot of what's wrong with people today! NO RESPECT!

I'd get so burnt out working with rude people at WDW!

Yay on touring the monorail resorts and taking pretty pictures of all the Christmas decorations!! They all look so pretty!

Having seen a recent programme about the making of the Gingerbread House and how it is put together it's nice to see a shot of the finished product.

Ugh at the annoying family and the way they were behaving - it sure is surprising how some moms act to what their children are doing.

The gingerbread house is so beautiful!!

That family was ridiculous! I can't understand what the heck is wrong with people!

Melissa, I love the pictures of all the decorations at the three monorail resorts -- beautiful.

What was that couple doing inside the rope? :headache:

Sounds like your meal was a success at the GF Cafe.

Thanks! I loved all the decorations!! It really gave me the holiday feel!

Grrr! I know!

Lunch was pretty good! It definitely someplace I would go again!

[QUOTE=eandesmom;43650943] I want folks like that to get caught, yelled at and yeah, maybe get sick from the Gingerbread. I do console myself with what comes around goes around...it really does.
/QUOTE]

:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

What is wrong with people?!! Ha you should have asked her if she needed to go ahead of you but with your luck she would have bumped into you and hit your phone :headache: I hope he got sick too. I am a freak about washing my hands and I couldn't imagine how many little paws had touched the house :scared1:

Might just have to do another monorail tour in May with a stop at the Poly for a lapu lapu. :rolleyes1

Tracy

:thumbsup2 I just don't understand what's wrong with people!!!

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl: You're right!!!! With my luck it would have ended badly if I said something!!

I truly hope he ended up sick from it!! Just thinking about it makes me a little queasy!! GROSS!!!

We definitely need a monorail tour it may!! I didn't get a lapu lapu in December!!

[tinacaplan]

The monorail resorts are absolutely beautiful, particularly all decked out for the holidays. Love the Mary Blair themed decorations at the Contemporary, too!

[mickeysmyboy]

The monorail resorts are absolutely beautiful, particularly all decked out for the holidays. Love the Mary Blair themed decorations at the Contemporary, too!

I loved all the decorations sooo much! It truly felt like christmas! I thought the Mary Blair decorations were adorable too!

[mickeysmyboy]

Sorry I've haven't been around lately!! Too darn much going on!

Now on with my update! Those of you on the dis page on FB already know about this but I have to share with everyone!!!!

A few weeks ago I got an email from the owner of my travel agency letting me know that she had put my name on a list requesting I be invited to the christening of the Fantasy! She told me that the christening would be happening in NYC and she figured she’d put me down because I live relatively nearby. She thought the invitations would be going out the next day. So I waited with baited breath the next day but got nothing came! Boo!! Having received nothing, I kinda forgot about it!

That was until last Friday when I was going about my daily business and picked up my phone, like I do throughout the day, to see if I got any important emails or anything. There was one there from Disney Special Events! I nearly jumped out of my skin!!

It was an invite to the christening of the Fantasy!!! I immediately headed for my laptop and opened the full size invite!!!

The evening of March 1st DH and I will be in NYC for the christening! The details are few at this point. The invitation said it will be an unforgettable evening of enchantment and elegance showcasing the new ship, including the incredible cuisine and entertainment.

I was contacted yesterday by one of the event coordinators letting me know that my RSVP was received and more information would follow!!

I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am to be attending this event!! I can’t even believe that I was actually invited!!! Jennifer Hudson sang at the christening of the Dream!! I can’t wait to see whats in store for the Fantasy!!!! Every time I think about it my heart jumps with excitement!! I’m completely freaking out with excitement!

Of course, being me, I persuaded DH to 2 nights in NYC! We will be headed to NYC on the 1st via a luxury bus services that is in our area to take people back and forth to NYC. Will be spending 2 nights at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square! The night of the 2nd we will be going to see Mary Poppins on Broadway!! We have a few other things planned, including a trip to the 9/11 memorial, shopping and site seeing!!! I’m also hopeful to get to meet up with brookelizabeth at some point!

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am!!

[manntra]

I am sooooooooooooo excited for you and your rockstar invitation!!!! You are going to be grinning from ear to ear until March!!! The food, the entertainment!!! Everything will be top notch!! Not to mention your fabulous weekend you will have with your husband!! :goodvibes

Tracy

[oopsiDAISY]

This is going to be one of those "once in a lifetime" opportunities for you...CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

[Mndisneygirl]

That is SO COOL!!! What a fun time you'll have!

I'm dying to know who the godmother will be! Have you heard any rumors?

[DisMomAmy]

So exciting!! :banana:

[Grumpy's Wife]

Sounds like so much fun. I can't wait to hear all about it and see all the pictures I'm sure you are going to take. Have fun.

[marDgreen88]

OH WOW! That is so exciting! I watched a live podcast of the Dream christening and it was so beautiful and exciting, I can't even imagine being there in person! I bet yall will have an amazing time! :goodvibes

[TanzUnited99]

Wow what amazing news!!! :dance3:

It must have been great when you got your invitation especially as you had forgotten about the earlier conversation - enjoy!! I'm looking forward to hearing all the details!

[jeremysdisneymom]

:banana:Oh my, I am sooooo excited for you!!!! I can't wait to hear all about it. You are going to have a fabulous time.

[tinacaplan]

That is VERY exciting news! :woohoo:

[mickeysmyboy]

I am sooooooooooooo excited for you and your rockstar invitation!!!! You are going to be grinning from ear to ear until March!!! The food, the entertainment!!! Everything will be top notch!! Not to mention your fabulous weekend you will have with your husband!! :goodvibes

Tracy

Thanks Tracy!! I am soooooo super excited!

This is going to be one of those "once in a lifetime" opportunities for you...CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

It really is!!! I can't wait!

That is SO COOL!!! What a fun time you'll have!

I'm dying to know who the godmother will be! Have you heard any rumors?

I know! I can't wait!!!

I haven't heard anything! I search online at least once a day! I'm dying to know!

So exciting!! :banana:

Very, very excited!!

Sounds like so much fun. I can't wait to hear all about it and see all the pictures I'm sure you are going to take. Have fun.

I can't wait! I'm so excited!! I'm going to take tons of pictures!!

OH WOW! That is so exciting! I watched a live podcast of the Dream christening and it was so beautiful and exciting, I can't even imagine being there in person! I bet yall will have an amazing time! :goodvibes

I can't wait!! I watched part of the dream christening the other day online and it looked amazing!! I can't wait to get on that ship and see what's in store!!

Wow what amazing news!!! :dance3:

It must have been great when you got your invitation especially as you had forgotten about the earlier conversation - enjoy!! I'm looking forward to hearing all the details!

Sooo amazing!!! I can't wait!!



:banana:Oh my, I am sooooo excited for you!!!! I can't wait to hear all about it. You are going to have a fabulous time.

I can't wait! I'm soooo excited!!

That is VERY exciting news! :woohoo:

It really is very exciting!!

[MeMom]

The evening of March 1st DH and I will be in NYC for the christening! The details are few at this point. The invitation said it will be an unforgettable evening of enchantment and elegance showcasing the new ship, including the incredible cuisine and entertainment.



Of course, being me, I persuaded DH to 2 nights in NYC! We will be headed to NYC on the 1st via a luxury bus services that is in our area to take people back and forth to NYC. Will be spending 2 nights at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square! The night of the 2nd we will be going to see Mary Poppins on Broadway!! We have a few other things planned, including a trip to the 9/11 memorial, shopping and site seeing!!! I’m also hopeful to get to meet up with brookelizabeth at some point!

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am!!

Very, very, very, very cool! :thumbsup2

[MEK]

That is so wonderful Melissa! What a fun experience and it doesn't hurt that you're getting a nice weekend in NYC as well. :thumbsup2

[mickeysmyboy]

Very, very, very, very cool! :thumbsup2

Thanks!! I can't wait!

That is so wonderful Melissa! What a fun experience and it doesn't hurt that you're getting a nice weekend in NYC as well. :thumbsup2


I'm sooooooo excited!!!! We're going to have such a great time!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

Did I already comment? I can't remember...have had limited DIS time recently. Anyway....SUPER exciting news!! :yay: And selfishly I am thrilled to know someone "on the inside" and am looking forward to hearing all about what I am sure will be an amazing day!!!

[Nermel9]

Hi, I'm here finally, and all caught up! :cool1:

I LOVE all of the pictures you took of the WL...it's my favorite Disney resort ever, and it is especially beautiful with all of the Christmas decorations up! :lovestruc

Your pics of the other monorail resorts are really pretty too! I'm not a big fan of that gingerbread Christmas tree in the CR, I saw it one year and thought that they could have done something a little more creative, but maybe I expect too much from Disney! :laughing: I wish there was something Gingerbread in the WL!

OMG that annoying family in GF sounds, well, annoying! I can't believe they ate pieces of the Gingerbread house! :scared1:

Yay for getting to go to the christening of the Fantasy! Do you actually get to go on the ship and look around? That is so cool, I wish I knew they were doing it in New York, I would have tried to get invited too! :rotfl: Take lots of pics!

[eandesmom]

You are seriously a rockstar! That is SOOOOOOOOO cool and will be a magical weekend for the 2 of you. I can't wait to hear about it and see pictures!

[mickeysmyboy]

Did I already comment? I can't remember...have had limited DIS time recently. Anyway....SUPER exciting news!! :yay: And selfishly I am thrilled to know someone "on the inside" and am looking forward to hearing all about what I am sure will be an amazing day!!!

You know I'm going to come back with 3 million pics and a whole lotta info!!! I can't wait to share it!

Hi, I'm here finally, and all caught up! :cool1:

I LOVE all of the pictures you took of the WL...it's my favorite Disney resort ever, and it is especially beautiful with all of the Christmas decorations up! :lovestruc

Your pics of the other monorail resorts are really pretty too! I'm not a big fan of that gingerbread Christmas tree in the CR, I saw it one year and thought that they could have done something a little more creative, but maybe I expect too much from Disney! :laughing: I wish there was something Gingerbread in the WL!

OMG that annoying family in GF sounds, well, annoying! I can't believe they ate pieces of the Gingerbread house! :scared1:

Yay for getting to go to the christening of the Fantasy! Do you actually get to go on the ship and look around? That is so cool, I wish I knew they were doing it in New York, I would have tried to get invited too! :rotfl: Take lots of pics!

You are seriously a rockstar! That is SOOOOOOOOO cool and will be a magical weekend for the 2 of you. I can't wait to hear about it and see pictures!

Welcome!! WL is one of my favorites! Especially at Christmas!

I do wish there was a gingerbread display at WL as well!!

Those people were crazy and annoying!! Grrrr!! What is wrong with people?!

I can't wait for the christening!!!! I'm super excited!!!