When in doubt, feed the bear....but not that!!!Day 4- Wanderings and musings

[Poolrat]

Hi and welcome to another TR from Poolrat. This is my third TR. The other two TR’s can be found in my signature.
I am Pat. Pat the Poolrat, not only here but at home too since I work in aquatics. I was the kid who was always at the pool just hanging out. When I was old enough I got a got a job there, guarding, coaching teaching swim lessons you name it. Hanging around the pool earned me the name Poolrat, along with my friends.
This trip was my first ever DVC trip. I purchased in Aug. and by the time the points were available, there was nothing left to book for my last Late Sept/Oct Trip. However, after a waitlist or 3 and a bit of confusion when it came through( they did not cancel one of my other reservations) I was booked. Trip dates were 12/29- 1/3. My DS Chris came with me this time. I was able to book SSR from 12/29 – 1/1 and AKL – Jambo with a savannah view from 1/1- 1/3. These were both new resorts for me. That will play a part later.

[Poolrat]

Day 1 Dec 29th (Part #1) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43672211&postcount=4) (Part#2) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43734822&postcount=46) (Part#3) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43770671&postcount=76) (Part #4) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43816620&postcount=110) (Part#5) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43882935&postcount=136) (Part#6) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43929380&postcount=163) (Part #7) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43929456&postcount=164)
Day 2 Dec 30th (Part #1) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43993910&postcount=200) (Part#2) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44006371&postcount=220) (Part #3) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44061934&postcount=256) (Part 4 ) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44099605&postcount=266) (Part #5) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44148186&postcount=288) (Part #6) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44218842&postcount=336) (Part #7) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44218897&postcount=337) (Part #8) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44218971&postcount=338) (Part#9) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44334751&postcount=409) (Part #10) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44336676&postcount=417) (Part#11) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44408749&postcount=458) (Part #12) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44475622&postcount=482)
Day 3 Dec 31st (Part #1) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44666228&postcount=526) (Part #2) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44668415&postcount=531) (Part #3) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44679988&postcount=538) (Part#4) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44680072&postcount=539) (Part # 5) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44728883&postcount=563) (Part #6) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44728944&postcount=564) (Part #7) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44728968&postcount=565) (Part#8) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44752001&postcount=586) (Part#9) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44943440&postcount=649) (Part#10) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44975748&postcount=665) (Part#11) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44975794&postcount=666) (Part#12) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44975915&postcount=667) (Part#13) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44975934&postcount=668)
Day 4-Jan 1st (Part#1) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45014927&postcount=694) (Part#2) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45046779&postcount=721) (Part #3) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45060689&postcount=731) (Part#4) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45060741&postcount=732)

[nowellsl]

I'm here! I really enjoyed your last report, can't wait for this one!!

[Poolrat]

Morning of Dec 29th – Up early and to make the drive to Greenville SC. Why Greenville? Well they have Southwest and that was quickly becoming my airline of choice. SC also has cheap gas so I let my tank go pretty low so I could fill up on the way. The last time I went to Greenville I found a Walmart with cheap gas, and a McDonalds right across the street. That would be perfect for us.

In theory.

I have no idea what made me panic looking for this gas station but I got off the interstate 3 times. Once in NC. :laughing: I needed to look for a Murphy gas from the hwy and I got off when I saw Marathon. :confused:
Finally my gas light is on and trip gauge says 9 miles until empty. :scared:
I pass an exit with gas determined to get off the next one and then it happens…

We stop

In traffic…

Talk about panic. Not only that but we are hungry and I have to use the bathroom.

Thankfully it was a short slow down, apparently a Direct TV truck lost something in the road and was cleaning up.

The next exit brings us to Mr. Waffle. I pull off and right into the gas station. I mean right into the gas station – the off ramp becomes a 2 lane road 10 feet after leaving the hwy. I put in $6 in gas ( yes I still hoping for the Walmart) and run inside to use the facilities. I hear Patti from the Simpsons speak to someone in her hoarse voice and let out a coughing fit that I hear until I get inside the bathroom. I will say the bathroom is clean.
Why am I not surprised?

I am all done and we get ready to get back out on the road. Unfortunately, the easier way back on is to really go back the way I came. That is not an option. So we brave forward. As soon as I crest a small hill I see the road curve towards the right, and towards the left…

A ramp back on the hwy. This was a small service road that basically had Mr. Waffle on it. Only in SC. :laughing:

We continue on our way and make it to the airport. Problem with that was …. No food.
The title will now make sense. When in doubt, feed my son. Always. He is a bear otherwise so I had to get him food.

We check in at the airport and go upstairs. Since it is about 8 am, not too many people around. There is a sit down restaurant but it was empty, not sure if they were serving or not.
A nice waiting area before security.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295904.jpg

I wonder if looks like the kids are skating if the water ever freezes over?

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295905.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295906.jpg

But we were still hungry and someone was already growling.
We go through security and then upstairs again. There is a quick counter right there. In hindsight I should have asked for something else but all I saw on the menu was a bacon, egg and cheese wrap. I get 2. Almost $12 later the food is ready.

Somehow the lady made breakfast burritos. So not what I ordered. I open them up and try to just eat the eggs. Chris won’t even touch his. After a few bites, I stop too. It was just disgusting.

Trying to work my way past this bump, we head to the kiosk. Chris picks out 2 bags of peanut M&Ms and get fruit chews. Great breakfast huh?
The bill for those was another $13. :eek:

While we wait, I try to get on the internet. Nothing. For some reason I cannot connect. I finally give up.

I am trying to relax and not all of this bother me. Trying.

The plane pulls in to gate A3. After a few moments there is an announcement. They are having trouble with the jetway and are going to move the plane over 1 gate. I guess I am not the only one having a rough morning.

We board and take off without incident. We still land on time and by 12:15 we are on the faux monorail.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295907.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295908.jpg

It does not take long for this to happen.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295909.jpg

Yes he is ahead again, but at least waiting. I have the carryon and cannot run down the escalator.

Sorry for the blur but I guess I was rushed

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295910.jpg

We are greeted with a Mears bus but we still got the movie.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295911.jpg

It was here I remembered to change the time on my camera. It was still on DST.

Our Driver- I will not type it this time so I can’t get it wrong.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295912.jpg

Our ride was unremarkable- not great but not bad either. I guess that would be the definition of unremarkable.

Just before 1pm we are crossing onto Disney Property.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295913.jpg

One too far and one a little too close.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295914.jpg

1st stop Old Key West

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295915.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295916.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295917.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295918.jpg

My first Welcome Home

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295919.jpg

Finally

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295920.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295921.jpg

Sorry these are so blurry, I guess I was excited, or chasing the boy.

[Poolrat]

I'm here! I really enjoyed your last report, can't wait for this one!!

YAY you are first!!!
http://i925.photobucket.com/albums/ad96/l_elena_r/Chronicle/medal.jpg

[jecskc]

We stayed at SSR the first time we stayed DVC as well and we really loved it. We stayed at Boardwalk the second time and ur next will be AKL, so I am looking forward to seeing your photos from there.

[jenseib]

Joining in! :thumbsup2

[tinacaplan]

Hello! :goodvibes And on page one, too!

Glad you got off to a rather unremarkable start...not a bad thing, at all! I recently found out I'm going back in April and staying at SSR, so I'm looking forward to your pictures.

[jeremysdisneymom]

I'm here. Oh no, is Chris going to be leading the way this trip!!! :rotfl2:

Great start. I can't wait to see Saratoga Springs. We have never stayed there.

[Grumpy's Wife]

Pat is that two trips in one year with Chris? He must have really had a great time with you last trip. I hope you both had a great vacation.

[glennbo123]

Staking a claim to page 1....and now back to read!

Your driver was Barry Crowder. ;)

[MEK]

Thanks for the heads-up that you started.

I am already laughing :rotfl: Seriously, how could your morning go so wrong? How far is your drive to Greenville and what happened to the Walmart? I actually didn't know Walmarts had gas stations.

Those fountains with the kids "skating" are interesting, to say the least.

Breakfast sounds horrible. Thank goodness it was a short flight.

I never managed to get a picture of the entrance to OKW the whole time I was there.

Yeah - SSR! Hope you liked it!

[uncw89]

I'm here!!! I'll try to keep up! :)

[eandesmom]

oh man, what a rough morning, I felt my blood pressure go up just reading about it. Hope you get some real food soon now that you are "home"

:goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

I'm here, Pat, but I will be back to read!!! :goodvibes

[MeMom]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295908.jpg


This is why I love to arrive at MCO in the daytime. Love that sun shining through! The atmosphere is not nearly as exciting on the nighttime arrivals.








http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295917.jpg



I saw these several times from the buses, but was never quick enough to remember to pull the camera out. I am glad you got a shot of them.

[Kgroo]

I am here! Some of those exits between us and Greeneville are a little scary. I have never flown out of Greeneville before. I fly a lot for business, but very little for pleasure, so really don't shop around airports/fares. Great start!!!!!

[BrooklynnsMommy]

I am here and will keep up as best I can!

[pooh'smate]

Joining in

[Poolrat]

Thanks everyone for joining in. I will do proper eplies when I get home. 1st day back at work and well I was busy but caught up ! Now to get on witha ll the new stuff I need to do.


Wanted to share a link. A time lapse of Fantasyland contstuction.

Time lapse of the New Fantasyland (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/the-daily-disney/os-cfb-theme-parks-0109-20120108,0,4618446.story)


Another one of the new DUmbo ride in testing
New Dumbo (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disney-new-fantasyland-dumbo-testing-video-19105/)

ANyone going over Presidents weekend? That is the expected Open date for Dumbo.

[FauntleroyFAN07]

:wave:

[Poolrat]

We stayed at SSR the first time we stayed DVC as well and we really loved it. We stayed at Boardwalk the second time and ur next will be AKL, so I am looking forward to seeing your photos from there.
:welcome: I had only been over to the carriage house to drop a package off for MeMom before this trip. I had a huge learning curve as you will see.

Joining in! :thumbsup2
:welcome: Glad to have you here.

Hello! :goodvibes And on page one, too!

Glad you got off to a rather unremarkable start...not a bad thing, at all! I recently found out I'm going back in April and staying at SSR, so I'm looking forward to your pictures.
:welcome: The flight was unremarkable but getting there sure wasn't. :laughing: I guess I had beginners luck in Oct because it was so easy.

I'm here. Oh no, is Chris going to be leading the way this trip!!! :rotfl2:

Great start. I can't wait to see Saratoga Springs. We have never stayed there.
:welcome: Chris will lead the way some and you will see that is not all bad this time. :eek:

I have some pictures but not as exhaustive as the All stars was last time.


Pat is that two trips in one year with Chris? He must have really had a great time with you last trip. I hope you both had a great vacation.

:welcome: The last trip with Chris was Sept '10 It just seems recent since I took so long with that epic TR. :rolleyes1

Staking a claim to page 1....and now back to read!

Your driver was Barry Crowder. ;)

:welcome:

Yeah Barry, sure it wasn't John? :rotfl: or Bob?

[Poolrat]

Thanks for the heads-up that you started.

I am already laughing :rotfl: Seriously, how could your morning go so wrong? How far is your drive to Greenville and what happened to the Walmart? I actually didn't know Walmarts had gas stations.
:welcome:
I am glad you are laughing. I am laughing now but man was I stressed.:laughing: I think I had beginners luck the first time I went to Greenville in Oct. I guess I figured out I get so stressed trying to "please" that I screw up even more trying to make it perfect. :sad2:

Greenvile is about 2 hours away but all hwy so an easy drive unless you need gas. :rotfl:
I found the Walmart and if you use a gift card or walmart card ( I use the gift card) I get 3 cents off a gallon but they were running a promotion of 10 cents off a gallon. Already about 15 - 18 cents cheaper than NC + and extra 10 cents - I wanted to find that gas station. :lmao: It is actually a Murphy gas but in the Walmart parking lot area.


Those fountains with the kids "skating" are interesting, to say the least

Breakfast sounds horrible. Thank goodness it was a short flight.

I never managed to get a picture of the entrance to OKW the whole time I was there.

Yeah - SSR! Hope you liked it!

The fountains I guess are for the waiting area which pre 9-11 were probably used more since they are outside security.

That wrap was horrible. So much so I tasted it all day. But I kept washing it down with something yummy.;)
That little bag of peanuts was not holding. The fruit chews held me a bit. I downed a pretty big bag in abput 5 minutes, while they were moving the plane to th other gate.

I'm here!!! I'll try to keep up!
:welcome: Elena's in the house! Just last night I reached intothe candy jar for a snickers before dinner. Made making dinner less stressful. I thik I am onto something. :rotfl:

oh man, what a rough morning, I felt my blood pressure go up just reading about it. Hope you get some real food soon now that you are "home"

:goodvibes
:welcome:
I have no idea why it turned out that way.:confused3 Oh I got something, but food , nah not yet.:drinking1

I'm here, Pat, but I will be back to read!!! :goodvibes

:welcome: Glad to have you.

This is why I love to arrive at MCO in the daytime. Love that sun shining through! The atmosphere is not nearly as exciting on the nighttime arrivals.

:welcome: Sun to arrive and dark to leave. That's how I like it. :thumbsup2
Now with a 2 hours drive home how about dusk to leave? :confused3
[QUOTE=MeMom;43676080]
I saw these several times from the buses, but was never quick enough to remember to pull the camera out. I am glad you got a shot of them.

I saw it on the way in. By the time we were on the way out I had the camera out and ready.

I am here! Some of those exits between us and Greeneville are a little scary. I have never flown out of Greeneville before. I fly a lot for business, but very little for pleasure, so really don't shop around airports/fares. Great start!!!!!
:welcome: It was light out so not so scary but ceratinly SC interesting. :lmao: Greenville being a SW provider and just started running flights to MCO last March. It is nice and small so no Nathans or Cinnabon to eat. If I had that scenario happened on the way to the Charlotte Airport, we still would have been able to feed the bear properly.

I am here and will keep up as best I can!
:welcome: I am glad you are here.

Joining in
:welcome:

:wave:
:welcome: :wave: Glad you made it over.

[tinacaplan]

RL]


Another one of the new DUmbo ride in testing
New Dumbo (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disney-new-fantasyland-dumbo-testing-video-19105/)

ANyone going over Presidents weekend? That is the expected Open date for Dumbo.


I'll be there from President's Day through the end of that week, so I'm glad to hear that its going to be open then. Have you heard anything about the Great Goofini opening then, too? I'd heard they're going to open at the same time.

[Poolrat]

I'll be there from President's Day through the end of that week, so I'm glad to hear that its going to be open then. Have you heard anything about the Great Goofini opening then, too? I'd heard they're going to open at the same time.

The article made it sound that maybe the whole Storybook Circus area will open for Presidents weekend. that would be neat.

[glennbo123]

Wanted to share a link. A time lapse of Fantasyland contstuction.

Time lapse of the New Fantasyland (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/the-daily-disney/os-cfb-theme-parks-0109-20120108,0,4618446.story)

Very cool!

[Poolrat]

Very cool!

I found it funny when the crane would get in front of the camera. I assume to put the castle lights and then to take them down again. :lmao:

[chloe770]

Checking in :wave2 :Thanks for the time lapse link. Very cool. I hope the rest of you trip went more smoothly.

[Poolrat]

Checking in :wave2 :Thanks for the time lapse link. Very cool. I hope the rest of you trip went more smoothly.

That Time lapse was cool. More smoothly yes, totally smooth... :rolleyes1
What fun would that be?

[uncw89]

:welcome:

:welcome: Elena's in the house! Just last night I reached intothe candy jar for a snickers before dinner. Made making dinner less stressful. I thik I am onto something. :rotfl:

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl: Better keep a snickers stash in the house...you never know when you might need one!!!


:welcome: :wave: Glad you made it over.

I fly SW from Raleigh sometimes, it's about 2 hours for me to get there though! How far is Raleigh from you?

[Poolrat]

I fly SW from Raleigh sometimes, it's about 2 hours for me to get there though! How far is Raleigh from you?

3 hours maybe. I just can't see going north to fly south. :lmao:

I have thought about it but then Greenville opened up and well going away from most of the traffic is so much easier. As long as you have gas.

[Captain_Oblivious]

Found you! And you thought you could hide this TR from me. BWAHAHAHAhahahaha...

Ahem.

So between the gas panic and nasty expensive breakfast, did you have a point where you just wanted to turn around and go back? Maybe not, because you didn't have enough gas. :rotfl2:

Looks like your son hasn't changed....:rolleyes1

[marvali]

Sorry, only time for a drive by HELLOing and subbing! Back to comment later!!! :hug:

[Poolrat]

Found you! And you thought you could hide this TR from me. BWAHAHAHAhahahaha...

Ahem.

So between the gas panic and nasty expensive breakfast, did you have a point where you just wanted to turn around and go back? Maybe not, because you didn't have enough gas. :rotfl2:

Looks like your son hasn't changed....:rolleyes1

:welcome: Glad you found me!!!

As for turning around.... NEVER. I just wanted to get there. Otheres who were travelling about the same time had some drama too so I hoped once we landed it would be all gone.

No he has not changed.... Only a year older. :sad2: However you will see more of the front of him this trip.

Sorry, only time for a drive by HELLOing and subbing! Back to comment later!!! :hug:

:welcome: :drive: :car: I will take what I can get. :lmao:

[uncw89]

3 hours maybe. I just can't see going north to fly south. :lmao:

I have thought about it but then Greenville opened up and well going away from most of the traffic is so much easier. As long as you have gas.

I don't blame you....you are right about going north to fly south...doesn't make sense.
And you definitely need gas!:lmao: Maybe a Snickers or two as well!!!!!:rotfl::rotfl2:

[jillyb]

Made it!!!

[Poolrat]

I don't blame you....you are right about going north to fly south...doesn't make sense.
And you definitely need gas!:lmao: Maybe a Snickers or two as well!!!!!:rotfl::rotfl2:

http://i706.photobucket.com/albums/ww63/surfinamma/chocolate.gif

I just need to remember the gas station is by the giant peach. I guess I thought I would rememebr that last time. :rolleyes1

Made it!!!

:welcome:

I may have to send up a flare to catch those fashionabley late.
:lmao:

[marvali]

http://i706.photobucket.com/albums/ww63/surfinamma/chocolate.gif

I just need to remember the gas station is by the giant peach. I guess I thought I would rememebr that last time. :rolleyes1

FYI, if you make that trip again any time soon, try the stations at Exit 78 just a few before GSP. This past weekend all of the stations there were at $2.97/gallon. The best I noticed on our drive. :goodvibes

[Poolrat]

FYI, if you make that trip again any time soon, try the stations at Exit 78 just a few before GSP. This past weekend all of the stations there were at $2.97/gallon. The best I noticed on our drive. :goodvibes

Now that NC has raised the gas tax and let some other tax cut expire, I may be driving to SC more often for gas. Maybe not all the way to exit 78 but I will be heading South of the border. ;)

Thanks for the tip. :3dglasses

[Kgroo]

Now that NC has raised the gas tax and let some other tax cut expire, I may be driving to SC more often for gas. Maybe not all the way to exit 78 but I will be heading South of the border. ;)

Thanks for the tip. :3dglasses

I am also going to have to drive to SC. I can't believe how fast it went up and by how much:scared1: They said it should only go up be about $.10, but so far it has gone up about $.25 in the last 10 days. Luckily I work close to the state line and can go at lunch if I need to.

[Wicket's Mom]

I'm new to your TR, but saw it on another TR, so I jumped on for the ride.

[Poolrat]

I am also going to have to drive to SC. I can't believe how fast it went up and by how much:scared1: They said it should only go up be about $.10, but so far it has gone up about $.25 in the last 10 days. Luckily I work close to the state line and can go at lunch if I need to.

I passed $2.50 on the way home. :eek: I think on the way home I got gas for around $3.00 when at home it was $3.28 or so. I am not too far away either. I can get my shots in the Ballantyne area and just drive 5 min to cross the border.


I'm new to your TR, but saw it on another TR, so I jumped on for the ride.

:welcome: Glad to have you.

[mom3sonstt]

I'm here!!

Can't guarantee I will stay caught up, since I am still playing catch up everywhere else....but if I disappear....I'll Be Back:cool2:

[Poolrat]

I'm here!!

Can't guarantee I will stay caught up, since I am still playing catch up everywhere else....but if I disappear....I'll Be Back:cool2:

:welcome: I won't be going fast .... until June. :lmao:

No really I hope be more even paced this time around but we shall see.

[Poolrat]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff110/spuigaten/under_construction.gif

[Poolrat]

I last left at the entrance to SSR after a most eventful start.

We walked right up to online check-in and that was taken care of rather quickly. The CM sort of assumed I knew my way around so he was taken aback when I answered no to the question. “You are in the Grandstand section, you are familiar with the resort, right?”

So he gives me quick directions- out, turn left go around the building past the pool.

How hard can it be?

So we get that far and then well, stop. The nice CM gave us the map and since I had the carryon, Chris had the map.
Our room was

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2539.jpg

Somehow I got it in my head I was looking for building 83. We get past the pool and veer right. I am following a path looking for “the entrance” so I can see a sign for room numbers. I look around and Chris goes one way.

Through what looks like a side entrance. I figure I would catch up with him around the front. I am not seeing any room numbers that are close to 8301.
I go back to the sign, no help. When he doesn’t come back, I figure I will call him to figure out where he went.

He says he was just going to call me, he is up in the room. Finally I get that we are on the third floor so I elevator up- remember I have the bag and I am not lugging it up 3 flights.

I walk and walk and walk and finally find the room. Ahhhh we are on the end hence the 01 and right by stairs. Super I request near transportation so near the stairs was good.

The room

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295922.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295927.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295924.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295923.jpg

The view

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295926.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/PC295925.jpg

I never took a picture of the bed !!! Man.

We dropped the stuff and Chris showered. You see this morning I opted to wait to wake up the bear, because you never wake a sleeping bear until you have to. I thought I gave him plenty of time for a quick shower but I apparently didn’t according to him. So since we were going straight to dinner from the park ( so I thought) now was a great time to clean up.

When he was ready to go, we just went down the stairs and we were at the Grandstand bus stop.

We were first to be picked up but had to ride around SSR for another 5-7 minutes before we got on the road to the park.

We were on a bus to
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2540.jpg

I wanted to head to EPCOT but Chris was feeling Star Tours. We got on the bus for DHS. As we entered the parking lot, I check wait times on Mobile Magic the Verizon Disney App. Star Tours 75 minutes :eek:

So as soon as we got off the bus we walked over to the path to EPCOT.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2541.jpg

I think a boat was loading and we knew we would not make it so we opted to walk. Chris never has walked over so this was new for him.

We admired this lovely creature.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2542.jpg

We make it to the Boardwalk area and see a wedding.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2543.jpg

Knowing we have to head across to the other side, we opt to go by the yacht club instead of the boardwalk. After figuring out we needed to back to the bridge and around we figure we saved no time.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2544.jpg

As we pass Stormalong Bay, I hear a generator. Curious, we take a closer look.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2545.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2546.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2547.jpg

Holy Cow! The sand pool is empty. During the busiest week of the year!

Management types just looking and shaking their heads. This can’t be good.
As a pool operator, taking a pool “down” like that is a major deal. Pumping all that water out, not mention the sand factor.

At that moment I was so glad I could just walk away. I was on vacation, and this was not my pool.

We continued walking to the IG.
As we approached the IG I saw this.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2548.jpg

Holy crowds batman!!

We venture in and find some pavement.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2549.jpg

Chris makes his way down there so I stop to take these.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2550.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2551.jpg

Chris looks up at me and says” I came down here to give you a head start.”

I take my cue and start walking towards France.

I am sure most of you can guess where I am heading!!! :lmao:

[tinacaplan]

Very curious as to why they had to take the sand and water out of SAB. :confused3 But its funny that, for you, you could have be reminded of your work life like that.

And hmm...going for a slushie, perhaps? :lmao:

Oh, and keep the transportation info coming. I'm really scared I'm going to hate being at SSR without a car. But you seem to be doing just fine for now...

[Poolrat]

Very curious as to why they had to take the sand and water out of SAB. :confused3 But its funny that, for you, you could have be reminded of your work life like that.

And hmm...going for a slushie, perhaps? :lmao:

Oh, and keep the transportation info coming. I'm really scared I'm going to hate being at SSR without a car. But you seem to be doing just fine for now...

The only thing I can think of that would take down a pool like that would be a broken pipe. It would have to be a major leak to cause them to do the repairs that week.

I heard it was up and running 2 days later so at least it was an easy fix.


After the morning I had - a slushie would have hit the spot. :rolleyes:


I was new to SSr so the transportation was a learning curve. I think we had it figured out by the time we left. :laughing:

[glennbo123]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff110/spuigaten/under_construction.gif

:worship:

[wigdoutdismom]

Great start on the report! When I read the title I knew it was yours immediatly.....

[glennbo123]

Chris looks up at me and says” I came down here to give you a head start.”

He's finally got you figured out! :rotfl2:

Wow, those sure are some major crowds. :eek:

[eandesmom]

Holy crowds batman! SAB being down like that sounds like a major major project.

Yeah. I'd have been going for a slushie at that point. The question is...where was Chris going?

[Millie12591]

Here! :yay: I'm glad you're doing another report!! :banana:

[MEK]

I can't believe SAB was empty! Wow! What could have gone wrong? That looks serious! When we were there a few weeks before you the villa pool was also closed for a refurb. Imagine 2 out of 3 pools being down. Yikes.

75 minutes for star wars. Yikes.

Epcot looks seriously crowded. How long was your slushy wait? :rotfl:

[Poolrat]

:worship:

I learned from the best. :worship:

Great start on the report! When I read the title I knew it was yours immediatly.....

:welcome:
Oh Yes. There was a lot about the bear this trip. :lmao:

He's finally got you figured out! :rotfl2:

Wow, those sure are some major crowds. :eek:

Imagine his surprise, when I stopped too, to take more pictures. :lmao:

This first one of the patio area looks nice and quiet. Then I zoomed in across the lake and... :scared1:

Holy crowds batman! SAB being down like that sounds like a major major project.

I was glad when I heard it was back up a couple of days later. I just knew it had to be major because of the timing.



Yeah. I'd have been going for a slushie at that point. The question is...where was Chris going?

Slushie= :cool1: Chris was just getting out of the crowd to let me get a head start walking since I am always lagging behind, partly because I stop to take pictures.


Here! :yay: I'm glad you're doing another report!! :banana:

:welcome: Glad you made it over.

I can't believe SAB was empty! Wow! What could have gone wrong? That looks serious! When we were there a few weeks before you the villa pool was also closed for a refurb. Imagine 2 out of 3 pools being down. Yikes.

My best guess is a broken pipe. I heard it was up in a couple of days so they must have worked straight through to get it fixed.


75 minutes for star wars. Yikes.

Epcot looks seriously crowded. How long was your slushy wait? :rotfl:

My plan was for EPCOT- so when I told him that he was game to follow me over. I could not believe when I zoomed in and saw all those heads. :scared1:
There was no space across the lake.

Slushy= :drinking1:

[nowellsl]

I'm pretty sure I will never go to WDW between Christmas and New Years :scared1: We went last year on the first day of the Food and Wine Festival and I thought it was crowded then, but WOW, judging from your pictures I'd say it was worse while you were there!! I just don't enjoy it when it's that crowded. I do love being able to go during the off seasons!

[Poolrat]

I'm pretty sure I will never go to WDW between Christmas and New Years :scared1: We went last year on the first day of the Food and Wine Festival and I thought it was crowded then, but WOW, judging from your pictures I'd say it was worse while you were there!! I just don't enjoy it when it's that crowded. I do love being able to go during the off seasons!

I will say that this year it seemed to be really bad. 2 years ago I was able to avoid most of the crowds and felt good doing it. This year I was trying to go more with the flow and the results were not great.
The first day of F&W was crowded too!!! Different corwd though. The F& W are usually those who travel there al ot so I find it harder to avoid the crowds since we all have the same resources to avoid the crowds.
During that week, it was easy to use FP and look at park crowd predictions to avoid the crowds.

I will say that I think Mobile apps are changing the way people tour. IT results in a swelling of crowds at times.

[MeMom]

I'm pretty sure I will never go to WDW between Christmas and New Years :scared1: I do love being able to go during the off seasons!

You are very fortunate to be so close so that tranportation is not such a huge factor in taking the trips. With annual passes, the parks part is not really a big deal. Resort prices fluctuate, of course, but we usually get some kind of AP discount, unless it's at a holiday time. We're pretty practical with our eating. All of that keeps it do-able. It's when you add in $300+ per plane ticket (there and back) that things start making the budget squeak.

Have fun at Pop, and send us some pictures! I tried to get some good ones of AoA, but you can't really see much.



Pat, my post from this morning didn't go through, I see. I was doing one of my photo walks on one of the days they were working on Stormalong Bay.

[Poolrat]

You are very fotunate to be so close so that tranportation is not such a huge factor in taking the trips. With annual passes, the parks part is not really a big deal. Resort prices fluctuate, of course, but we usually get some kind of AP discount, unless it's at a holiday time. We're pretty practical with our eating. All of that keeps it do-able. It's when you add in $300+ per plane ticket (there and back) that things start making the budget squeak.

Have fun at Pop, and send us some pictures! I tried to get some good ones of AoA, but you can't really see much.

I also like not being tied to the school calendar. Of course if I can wrangle my girlfriends to go along again, both are in education so I am still tied to the school calendar. :headache:

The only time I got to see AoA was when ME picked up POP people. There was a good bit visible from the road but trees combined with a moving bus did not yield good results.



Pat, my post from this morning didn't go through, I see. I was doing one of my photo walks on one of the days they were working on Stormalong Bay.

I had difficulty checking on my own TR this morning. :laughing: I look forward to seeing wat you saw when you went by.

[swwake]

Subscribing to another great TR!!

[pooh'smate]

Wow that is a lot of people!!!!

[Poolrat]

Subscribing to another great TR!!

:welcome: Glad to have you here!

[Kgroo]

I can't believe how many people were there. Hopefully you made it to the slushie stand to help relieve some of the stressfrom your morning. The slushie line always seems long even during slow days. Can't imagine what it would look like on a day that was that crowded.

[jenseib]

I'm loving your shots. Your room looks really nice too.

[Charleston Princess]

All caught up now! I have a feeling that Chris will be waiting for you to catch up most of the trip. :laughing:

[nowellsl]

You are very fortunate to be so close so that tranportation is not such a huge factor in taking the trips.

Definately!!!

Have fun at Pop, and send us some pictures! I tried to get some good ones of AoA, but you can't really see much.


I need to take that ticker off, had to cancel POP :sad1: for this weekend. My dad's last living sibling passed away yesterday morning, so we'll be going to GA on Fri. He was 91 and has been sick for a while. I tried to re-schedule for the following weekend, and the next one, and the next one and would you believe all the value resorts are booked :scared1: I thought this was slow season!!

Looks like I'll be able to book a studio at Animal Kingdom (Savannah view!!) by renting points for only a little more..... I'll know sometime today for sure.

Sorry to hijack your trip report Pat!

[jeremysdisneymom]

I would have never guessed that Chris was the Bear! :lmao: I wondered where you got that in your title.

Wow, those were some crowds! It was on the evening news one night how crowded Disney World was and the parks shutting down some. I wondered about you guys down there and what you had encountered.

[Poolrat]

Wow that is a lot of people!!!!

Yes it was and apparently just as many were at the other parks that day. :scared1:

I can't believe how many people were there. Hopefully you made it to the slushie stand to help relieve some of the stressfrom your morning. The slushie line always seems long even during slow days. Can't imagine what it would look like on a day that was that crowded.

3 of the 4 parks were closed the day before. I had a friend at work who was trying to go to the MK on the 28th. He was just going to drive over and see how it went. Luckily I intervened but only found he actually did do it when we both got back. He said there was a person in front, in back, and to each side of him at all times. They actually had fun ( probably because I warned him and gave him some tips) but I told no matter when he went back ( he was already plannaing a long trip :laughing:) , it would NEVER be that crowded ever again.

You will have to wait for the slushie adventure - if indeed that where I was heading...;)

I'm loving your shots. Your room looks really nice too.
Thanks- I can't believe I forgot to take one of the bed. I may check my card because I think when I uploaded the computer skipped some. :laughing:

If I did miss the bed it was because I already had stuff all over it. :laughing:

All caught up now! I have a feeling that Chris will be waiting for you to catch up most of the trip. :laughing:

It seemed like one of us was always waiting for the other.

I need to take that ticker off, had to cancel POP :sad1: for this weekend. My dad's last living sibling passed away yesterday morning, so we'll be going to GA on Fri. He was 91 and has been sick for a while. I tried to re-schedule for the following weekend, and the next one, and the next one and would you believe all the value resorts are booked :scared1: I thought this was slow season!!
Sorry you had to cancel your trip. I am sorry about your uncle(?) I hope you find a room.


Looks like I'll be able to book a studio at Animal Kingdom (Savannah view!!) by renting points for only a little more..... I'll know sometime today for sure.

Sorry to hijack your trip report Pat!
I am glad you may have found something. It is always good to hear when someone is going.

I would have never guessed that Chris was the Bear! :lmao: I wondered where you got that in your title.

Chris is the bear. I neglected to do a proper intro, but Chris is the bear. Even in school when he was younger, the rule was if he was getting "ugly" just feed him. He cannot stand the pain of his stomach growling and even more on this trip where either meals were set ( TS) or there were lines (CS) and or being far from what you might like to eat, it was a bit of a challenge to keep him fed.

Now I will admit there was a momma bear incident too. :rolleyes:

Wow, those were some crowds! It was on the evening news one night how crowded Disney World was and the parks shutting down some. I wondered about you guys down there and what you had encountered.

Wednesday was the day 3 parks were at capacity and "sightings of pavement" were reported at EPCOT. a CM reported on the DIS somewhere that they were told a month before that Wed Dec 28th was going to be THE day where they would see the biggest crowds. They were spot on!!!

[BMC423]

Hello! I've seen you around on other TRs and noticed you have one of your own so I'm subbing!

[Wicket's Mom]

I won't go during those busy times, way too many people! When the kids were young & in school we had to go in the busy times. We only do off times now, but those are getting busier.

[Poolrat]

Hello! I've seen you around on other TRs and noticed you have one of your own so I'm subbing!

:welcome: Glad you clicked on through. I grew up on L.I.

I won't go during those busy times, way too many people! When the kids were young & in school we had to go in the busy times. We only do off times now, but those are getting busier.

That's why I came in onthe 29th. We stayed until the 3rd but the crowds got a little better. If I wanted to see NYE fireworks I would have to deal with the crowds. I went 2 years ago and it was crowded but this year was more crowded.

I agree that the typical "down times" are not as slow anymore.

[Captain_Oblivious]

Wow, that is a lot of crowds!

Amazing that the pool was drained. Did you notice if Bill Murray was standing in the center with a scrubber? :confused3

[Wicket's Mom]

:rotfl2:

[MeMom]

I need to take that ticker off, had to cancel POP :sad1: for this weekend. My dad's last living sibling passed away yesterday morning, so we'll be going to GA on Fri. He was 91 and has been sick for a while. I tried to re-schedule for the following weekend, and the next one, and the next one and would you believe all the value resorts are booked :scared1: I thought this was slow season!!

Looks like I'll be able to book a studio at Animal Kingdom (Savannah view!!) by renting points for only a little more..... I'll know sometime today for sure.



Sorry to hear about your loss. At 91, he lived a good long life, though, and I am sure you all have many good memories of time spent with him. I always like to try to recall the fun and funny things at first, as it helps to get through the initial pain.

An Animal Kingdom stay is exciting!




Wow, those were some crowds! It was on the evening news one night how crowded Disney World was and the parks shutting down some. I wondered about you guys down there and what you had encountered.

We heard from someone back home that it was on the news about three parks closing, too.






Chris is the bear. I neglected to do a proper intro, but Chris is the bear. Even in school when he was younger, the rule was if he was getting "ugly" just feed him. He cannot stand the pain of his stomach growling and even more on this trip where either meals were set ( TS) or there were lines (CS) and or being far from what you might like to eat, it was a bit of a challenge to keep him fed.



We have to be sure John is well-fed and well-rested or becomes an animal of some type, too. Within an hour after any meal, he was already talking about either a snack or the next meal. Men and their appetites!

[Poolrat]

Wow, that is a lot of crowds!

Amazing that the pool was drained. Did you notice if Bill Murray was standing in the center with a scrubber? :confused3

Crowds were :scared1::scared1: even to me, when I expected crowds.

Didn't you see Bill chomping on that Baby Ruth right next to the sand pile? :rotfl2:

:rotfl2:

I agree.

We have to be sure John is well-fed and well-rested or becomes an animal of some type, too. Within an hour after any meal, he was already talking about either a snack or the next meal. Men and their appetites!

Chris has been that way since he was born. Remember Chris has those nuggets before O'Hana.( oops I am getting ahead of myself here ;)) It was 4 hours before but he was hungry when we got there. I glad he didn't get too ugly at dinner waiting.

Chris and I moaned our way out of a few resturants on that trip. :lmao:

[Poolrat]

Chris was hungry- no shock there – so we were heading to the American Adventure for some grub.

But I had to stop first. Something was calling my name.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2553.jpg

Believe it or not the line was short. Like I walked right up as the CM was finishing with the customer in front of me.

I was in front of this lady in line. She was walking by and it was calling her name too but she couldn’t decide.

She was asking what was what and wondering how “orangey” the Grand Marnier was. As we are talking, she asked the CM for a taste so she could see.

No Go.

So I offered a strawful of mine. I hadn’t touched it, so I dipped a straw in and gave it to her. She ended up ordering one. :)
The CM even thought we were together. It was fun to meet someone like that.

No rest for the weary and the bear was hungry so off I went. I made it to Morocco and we passed the sleeping area.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2555.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2556.jpg

Out comes the Moroccan storyteller Great. One I wanted to catch this time. I convince the bear to stop, or go ahead, it really did not matter if he went ahead. We had the DDP for the SSR portion and he knew how to use it.
He chose to stay and listen.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2561.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2562.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2563.jpg

He was a good story teller. He drew in the crowd.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2564.jpg

We had texting princess. The story teller called her that.;) I bet you can't guess what she doing while he was telling his story. :laughing:

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2565.jpg

He brought other princesses up to dance

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2567.jpg

I was sipping away while he spoke.

As he was making his rounds to leave, he came up to me.

He said “ You started when I did. Now you are all done. Six Minutes.” Then he continued walking.



I just had the Moroccan storyteller call me out on my drinking.:lmao: :scared1:

[chloe770]

I was sipping away while he spoke.

As he was making his rounds to leave, he came up to me.

He said “ You started when I did. Now you are all done. Six Minutes.” Then he continued walking.



I just had the Moroccan storyteller call me out on my drinking.:lmao: :scared1:

:lmao:That is funny! and makes a great story too. :thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

:lmao:That is funny! and makes a great story too. :thumbsup2

I thought it was hilarious. What was funny was that I was drinking so mindlessly that it didn't occur to me until he said something. I certainly was not timing myself either. :rotfl:

[swwake]

Too funny that "Great" called you out!!

[eandesmom]

I was sipping away while he spoke.

As he was making his rounds to leave, he came up to me.

He said “ You started when I did. Now you are all done. Six Minutes.” Then he continued walking.

I just had the Moroccan storyteller call me out on my drinking.:lmao: :scared1:

That's hysterical!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And it's a super cute picture of you and your slushie! Nice of you to share a taste.

[jecskc]

:lmao::rotfl2: That IS funny that he called you out on that. Ah Disney.

I like the lemon ones - yummmmmm.

[MEK]

Well, look at it this way - at least you didn't suck down a rita or that pink champagne vodka stuff in 6 minutes. :rotfl:

[Wicket's Mom]

Love those slushies! Funny remark from the story teller!

[Rozz]

Chris was hungry- no shock there – so we were heading to the American Adventure for some grub.

But I had to stop first. Something was calling my name.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2553.jpg



Mine, Mine, Mine!!

Love your trip reports! This photo just drew me in. Can't imagine why!:drinking1 Looking forward to reading about the momma bear moment! :laughing:

[glennbo123]

I'm surprised you made it last though the whole story. :laughing:

Nice picture of you by the way.

[jenseib]

6 minutes and no brain freeze...that is an accomplishment!

[Poolrat]

Too funny that "Great" called you out!!


It was funny. I am glad the boy already ahead of me and he didn't hear it.:lmao:

That's hysterical!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And it's a super cute picture of you and your slushie! Nice of you to share a taste.

It was funny. Thansk I made Chris take and well we have some outtakes.
That was the good one.

I am not ready in this one.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2552.jpg

And well I think he needed instruction during this one.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2554.jpg

Not quite what he was doing here
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2557.jpg


:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

:lmao::rotfl2: That IS funny that he called you out on that. Ah Disney.

I like the lemon ones - yummmmmm.

I like when the storytellers have some "spunk".

I like the lemon ones too but I was in an orange mood.

[Poolrat]

Well, look at it this way - at least you didn't suck down a rita or that pink champagne vodka stuff in 6 minutes. :rotfl:

Then It would have been step - plop. Rememebr I had a a taste of a bad breakfast burrito and some fruit chews for breakfast. :lmao:

Love those slushies! Funny remark from the story teller!

Slushies = YUM

Mine, Mine, Mine!!

Love your trip reports! This photo just drew me in. Can't imagine why!:drinking1 Looking forward to reading about the momma bear moment! :laughing:

:welcome: More alcohol coming up. :lmao: The momma bear incident was a doozie. :rolleyes1 Ever trip has a moment. I had at least one.

I'm surprised you made it last though the whole story. :laughing:

Nice picture of you by the way.

Brain freeze slows you down.
I think I actually had a bit of a head start.
Walking with a full slushie = spillage and we can't have that at those prices. :laughing:

Thanks for the compliment. I posted some outtakes. :lmao:

6 minutes and no brain freeze...that is an accomplishment!

I did have to pause a few times to put my tongue on the roof of my mouth to slow down the brain freeze.

[glennbo123]

Thanks for the compliment. I posted some outtakes. :lmao:

I didn't know how right I was about that one you originally posted! :rotfl:

[Poolrat]

I didn't know how right I was about that one you originally posted! :rotfl:

:rotfl2::rotfl2: With Chris behind the camera, I had to double check what he got. This was the new camera and he... I never let him use it before.

I mean it was on auto so point and shoot right. Obviously not. :rotfl2:

[jillyb]

That slushie looks good! I've yet to have one. Six minutes???!! You knocked that sucker back! :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

[tinacaplan]

So I offered a strawful of mine. I hadn’t touched it, so I dipped a straw in and gave it to her. She ended up ordering one. :)
The CM even thought we were together. It was fun to meet someone like that.



First of all...delicious looking Grand Ma slushie. I somehow managed not to have on in July. :scared1: Second...isn't it amazing how you can meet people in Disneyworld? For every story I hear about not so nice interactions with people, I feel like I either about or have personally experienced three amazing interactions that probably wouldn't happen in the "real world." Just part of the reason I love Disneyworld so much.:goodvibes

[Poolrat]

That slushie looks good! I've yet to have one. Six minutes???!! You knocked that sucker back! :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

Can I blame it on the storyteller?
He was so good I was not paying attention to how fast I was drinking?
That and those martini glasses are not that big.
Had to drink it before it melted?

How many more excuses can I come up with ?? :lmao:


First of all...delicious looking Grand Ma slushie. I somehow managed not to have on in July. :scared1: Second...isn't it amazing how you can meet people in Disneyworld? For every story I hear about not so nice interactions with people, I feel like I either about or have personally experienced three amazing interactions that probably wouldn't happen in the "real world." Just part of the reason I love Disneyworld so much.:goodvibes

That slushie hit the spot for six minutes. :lmao:

As for the lady at the counter, the CM thought we were together and we literally started talking to each other 30 seconds prior to that as she was walking by and getting whiplash looking at the drinks.

I have had some interesting interactions too. If you read the first TR ... remember Joel? :laughing:

[Captain_Oblivious]

She was asking what was what and wondering how “orangey” the Grand Marnier was. As we are talking, she asked the CM for a taste so she could see.

Yeah, I try that trick at Le Cellier all the time. "Can I just have a little steak?"

So I offered a strawful of mine. I hadn’t touched it, so I dipped a straw in and gave it to her. She ended up ordering one. :)
The CM even thought we were together. It was fun to meet someone like that.

You're a kind soul! Especially considering the price per ounce of slushie! :rotfl2:

We had texting princess. The story teller called her that.;) I bet you can't guess what she doing while he was telling his story. :laughing:

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

I still like Whispering Canyon's technique of dealing with this: "QUIET EVERYBODY! SHE'S ON THE PHONE!!" :rotfl:

As he was making his rounds to leave, he came up to me.

He said “ You started when I did. Now you are all done. Six Minutes.” Then he continued walking.

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

[vassar36]

great TR!!!

[Poolrat]

Yeah, I try that trick at Le Cellier all the time. "Can I just have a little steak?"
:rotfl2: You let me know if you ever get that to work. :rotfl2:



You're a kind soul! Especially considering the price per ounce of slushie! :rotfl2:
She was so conflicted and how exactly do you describe orange? :confused3 I would feel bad if my description did not match her taste. Then I would take her drink. :lmao:



:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:
I still like Whispering Canyon's technique of dealing with this: "QUIET EVERYBODY! SHE'S ON THE PHONE!!" :rotfl:
:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

Love it. :rotfl2: I loved it when I saw a hostess sing Happy Birthday to the table with a cupcake. Then she took a bite!!!!! I almost choked. :lmao:

great TR!!!

:welcome: Hope you enjoy the ride.

[Millie12591]

Love the picture of you with your hair down!! :banana: I think I've told you before how you need to do that more, and here you did! :goodvibes The out-takes are classic!! :rotfl2:

I have yet to try the orange booze slushie. :laughing: I tried the lemon one last time and it's good up until a certain point and then it's too much, especially in the heat. :sick: And don't bother trying the limoncello in Italy when it's hot out. :sad2:

Everyone is so right about meeting people in WDW and making a friend that you'll probably never see again. :lovestruc It's one of the few places you can be friendly, talkative and people don't really question it, maybe it's because it's a place all about spreading joy and having fun....no matter your age. :cloud9:

[MeMom]

Everyone is so right about meeting people in WDW and making a friend that you'll probably never see again. :lovestruc It's one of the few places you can be friendly, talkative and people don't really question it, maybe it's because it's a place all about spreading joy and having fun....no matter your age. :cloud9:

Pretty much the only place I talk to 'strangers'. It's especially nice when you see someone who clearly has no WDW knowledge and you can help them plan or understand something better - simple things like what order to do rides, how to get to a resort for a dinner, what to order, how Fastpasses and/or baby swaps work, etc. When they seem truly appreciative and they walk away with more confidence in what they are doing, it's nice.

[Kgroo]

I knew that you had given in to the lure of the slushie stand :thumbsup2 It is almost impossible to walk by and not partake. I like the lemon ones - haven't tried the orange. Given how expensive they are, I am scared to try a different one. Maybe I will give the orange a try in March. Love the comment by the storyteller :lmao: Loving all of the pics.

[Poolrat]

Love the picture of you with your hair down!! :banana: I think I've told you before how you need to do that more, and here you did! :goodvibes The out-takes are classic!! :rotfl2:

The warmer it is it more likely my hair is up but I do appreciate the compliment. We had to work a little for that picture. :laughing:


I have yet to try the orange booze slushie. :laughing: I tried the lemon one last time and it's good up until a certain point and then it's too much, especially in the heat. :sick: And don't bother trying the limoncello in Italy when it's hot out. :sad2:

I do like them both but I think I may be partial o the Orange. The tart in the lemon does not sit too well when it is really hot. I think the acidic Minute Maid and the heat is what made my stomach unhappy last time.


Everyone is so right about meeting people in WDW and making a friend that you'll probably never see again. :lovestruc It's one of the few places you can be friendly, talkative and people don't really question it, maybe it's because it's a place all about spreading joy and having fun....no matter your age. :cloud9:


Pretty much the only place I talk to 'strangers'. It's especially nice when you see someone who clearly has no WDW knowledge and you can help them plan or understand something better - simple things like what order to do rides, how to get to a resort for a dinner, what to order, how Fastpasses and/or baby swaps work, etc. When they seem truly appreciative and they walk away with more confidence in what they are doing, it's nice.

I agree! I enjoy helping people out. The lady with the drink was just walking by and it caught her eye. :laughing: She pretty much was talking her way through descision making so I was trying to help her solve her inner conflict of OOOHHH so many nice drinks, which one will I choose? :laughing:

People on the monorail usually crack me up because sometimes people have no idea where they are going. The big one is that they have to change monorails to get from EPCOT to MK or to the Monorail Resorts. I walked one family all the way to Chef Mickey's once because I feared they would never make it otherwise. :laughing:

Giving people the nugget of information they need to make their visit easier makes me happy. :goodvibes

[eandesmom]

I
It was funny. Thansk I made Chris take and well we have some outtakes.
That was the good one.

I am not ready in this one.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2552.jpg

And well I think he needed instruction during this one.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2554.jpg

Not quite what he was doing here
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2557.jpg


:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:




Those are a riot! At least he's trained to take more than one shot!

[Poolrat]

Those are a riot! At least he's trained to take more than one shot!

I made him take a few more and then I checked and almost made him take more. :lmao: Considering that was the first time he has held that camera, we got 1 good shot and that's all we needed.

[BMC423]

:welcome: Glad you clicked on through. I grew up on L.I.


How long ago did you move to NC?



Brain freeze slows you down.
I think I actually had a bit of a head start.
Walking with a full slushie = spillage and we can't have that at those prices. :laughing:


:rotfl:


Can I blame it on the storyteller?
He was so good I was not paying attention to how fast I was drinking?
That and those martini glasses are not that big.
Had to drink it before it melted?

How many more excuses can I come up with ?? :lmao:


I was going to say you should have told him you were so enchanted by his storytelling you didn't even notice you were drinking. ;)


Everyone is so right about meeting people in WDW and making a friend that you'll probably never see again. :lovestruc It's one of the few places you can be friendly, talkative and people don't really question it, maybe it's because it's a place all about spreading joy and having fun....no matter your age. :cloud9:

It really is, and you can always tell who doesn't want to be there because they don't have that happy go lucky vibe to them. It is always very refreshing to me to have happy smiling people around me when I'm at Disney. I don't believe all that New Yorkers are rude hype but I will tell you some of us are not very stranger friendly :confused3

[Poolrat]

How long ago did you move to NC?

Bornin Queens, moved out to LI at 7 and there until I graduated college from SUNY Stonybrook. Spent 1 year in Clearwater and moved up NC in 1988. So 25 years in NC.



:rotfl:
If I am paying $9.50 for a drink I will drink every drop. :lmao:



I was going to say you should have told him you were so enchanted by his storytelling you didn't even notice you were drinking. ;)

I should have. :lmao: By the time I realized all of what he said, he turned and was gone. :lmao:



It really is, and you can always tell who doesn't want to be there because they don't have that happy go lucky vibe to them. It is always very refreshing to me to have happy smiling people around me when I'm at Disney. I don't believe all that New Yorkers are rude hype but I will tell you some of us are not very stranger friendly :confused3

I believe NYers are very friendly. We just rush around so much we often don't stop for the "extras". When conducting business, we do just that. Down here in the South, I still get annoyed on the phone when someone calls me at work and I say hello and my spiel I have to say when I answer and then they say hello followed by "So how you doing?" and a long pause. Then " I have a question." Of course you do, you called to ask it. :lmao:
You really don't want to know my life story so why ask.

I meet more Northerners down here who are so friendly. We just didn't have time to be friendly up North. I blame it on being cold most of the time. Here we will hang around more to talk because we don't want to go out in the heat. :laughing:

[wigdoutdismom]

Thanks for posting the out-takes.
I needed a giggle.:laughing:

[Poolrat]

Thanks for posting the out-takes.
I needed a giggle.:laughing:

The first time through I guess I had some sense. After a couple of comments on the picture I had to reveal what really happened. :lmao:

[BMC423]

I believe NYers are very friendly. We just rush around so much we often don't stop for the "extras". When conducting business, we do just that. Down here in the South, I still get annoyed on the phone when someone calls me at work and I say hello and my spiel I have to say when I answer and then they say hello followed by "So how you doing?" and a long pause. Then " I have a question." Of course you do, you called to ask it. :lmao:
You really don't want to know my life story so why ask.

I meet more Northerners down here who are so friendly. We just didn't have time to be friendly up North. I blame it on being cold most of the time. Here we will hang around more to talk because we don't want to go out in the heat. :laughing:

That's it all us friendly Northerners love the South :laughing: Go figure! That phone thing is very funny, thats how I feel when I call Disney...:rolleyes1.

[Poolrat]

That's it all us friendly Northerners love the South :laughing: Go figure! That phone thing is very funny, thats how I feel when I call Disney...:rolleyes1.

Considering my spiel ends with " How can I help you today?" I am expecting an answer to, I guess , my question.
A Good morning, afternoon or hello is great but the " Hey Pat, How you doing?" with a long pause only causes me to re-ask " Great, How can I help you today?" Not to mention the other line ringing and the 3 people in front of me with other questions. :laughing:

Don't get me wrong I will chat with people, either as I looking for the information they need or within the context of answering their question. I am sure they didn't call to chat with me otherwise they would have my personal cell phone number. :rolleyes1

[MEK]

I guess I read your last update without pictures because I just went back and looked at them - fun! Cute pictures of you! :thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

After I got called out by the Morrocan and properly disposed of my empty shushie cup,we keep walking towards Japan I notice the Japanese storyteller was out. Score another one I missed last time.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2568.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2569.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2576.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2572.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2571.jpg

The handler

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2575.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2577.jpg

Chris had gone into the store to look around while I watched Daruma. When she was done I walked over to the Koi pond to wait for Chris.

Meanwhile the drummers came out.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2578.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2579.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2580.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2581.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2583.jpg

Chris arrived as I was taking pictures and his hunger was evident.
We kept walking over to the American adventure.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2584.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2585.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2586.jpg

Close up on the tree.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2587.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2588.jpg

I told him to go get food and I would join him shortly.

I found a PP and this was the first PP of the trip.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2589.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2590.jpg

Satisfied I headed inside to join Chris.

I get sidetracked by this

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2592.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2593.jpg

While I was there I met a couple and the wife was trying to get her husband to stand by the gingerbread house. He was giving her a hard time but when she saw me taking pictures, she told him “ See she is doing it too. Just get over there.” It was a funny moment and she got her shots.

I found a table and Chris was just getting his food.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2594.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2595.jpg

I may have stolen a fry or two. We had a bigger tussle over the chocolate mousse. I got about 1/3 of that.


With the bear fed, we can now concentrate on other things.

Where shall we head next?

[glennbo123]

What a great picture of you! It really looks like a portrait, which you don't usually get from a photopass photographer.

And you took some nice pictures of the storyteller in Japan.

So that gingerbread house was inside the American pavilion? Funny story about that couple there. :laughing:

[eandesmom]

Ok, you need to have more pictures with your hair down. First the lovely one by Chris (with some very funny ones as well) and now the gorgeous PP shot! Wonderful wonderful pictures.

I'm glad the bear was fed.

[Poolrat]

And you took some nice pictures of the storyteller in Japan.

So that gingerbread house was inside the American pavilion? Funny story about that couple there. :laughing:

The gingerbread house was right by the entrance to the CS. I have some pictures of the outside too. Those pictures were actually the side of the house. The front had a person manning the house. It was tucked nicely at the entrance.

What a great picture of you! It really looks like a portrait, which you don't usually get from a photopass photographer.

Ok, you need to have more pictures with your hair down. First the lovely one by Chris (with some very funny ones as well) and now the gorgeous PP shot! Wonderful wonderful pictures.

I'm glad the bear was fed.

Thanks for the compliments. With the Florida heat and humididty it is a fine line between having a nice picture taken and one with Roseanne Roseannadanna hair. :lmao:


Once the bear was fed he was much easier to converse with. When he is hungry the only conversation we can have is about food. :lmao:

[tinacaplan]

Love the Japan pavilion. And I have to agree with everyone else, your PP pictures are lovely. Great Christmas tree pictures, too!

[jenseib]

Yum that mousse looks really good. I think I would've had to go up and get my own.

[jeremysdisneymom]

:thumbsup2 Yay for getting the bear fed!!

Was the gingerbread house in the restaurant? I missed it in November.

I still have never had a slushie! I can't believe you drank that thing in 6 minutes! :worship: I would have totally brain freezed halfway through.

I still have never seen the storytellers. Hope to this November!

[Captain_Oblivious]

After I got called out by the Morrocan and properly disposed of my empty shushie cup,we keep walking towards Japan I notice the Japanese storyteller was out. Score another one I missed last time.

Always good to check attractions off the list!

I found a PP and this was the first PP of the trip.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2589.jpg

Nice picture! :thumbsup2

He was giving her a hard time but when she saw me taking pictures, she told him “ See she is doing it too. Just get over there.” It was a funny moment and she got her shots.

First the slushie and now this. Disney should pay you a commission!

Where shall we head next?

Newark, NJ? :confused3

[KatMark]

I don't know how I didn't know you had this going on.

I don't have time to comment on everything, but I am caught up now and will try to keep on top of this until I leave on Thursday.

I did want to say that I love that photopass picture of you in front of the tree -- very pretty.

[MEK]

Pat - that really is another very cute picture of you!

I completely forgot that there was a gingerbread house in there. Drat! :headache: I would have enjoyed seeing that.

More great pics!

[Kgroo]

Loved the pics of the gingerbread house. The picture if you in front of the tree was great. I am so used to going in September and I look like a hot sweaty mess in all pics. Can't wait to see more.

[Poolrat]

I guess I read your last update without pictures because I just went back and looked at them - fun! Cute pictures of you! :thumbsup2

Sorry I missed this earlier. Despite the crowds, we had a nice walk.

Love the Japan pavilion. And I have to agree with everyone else, your PP pictures are lovely. Great Christmas tree pictures, too!

Thanks for the compliment. I love seeing everything all decked out in its Christmas finest.

Yum that mousse looks really good. I think I would've had to go up and get my own.

There was a bit of a tussle, but the bear was getting full. :lmao:

:thumbsup2 Yay for getting the bear fed!!

Was the gingerbread house in the restaurant? I missed it in November.

It was between the 2 main doors. I got some pictures of the front too.


I still have never had a slushie! I can't believe you drank that thing in 6 minutes! :worship: I would have totally brain freezed halfway through.

I still have never seen the storytellers. Hope to this November!

Oh add that to your list girl. I think I drank it just slow enough to ward off the worst of the brain freeze but I think I did have to pause and stick my tongue on the roof of my mouth to warm it up.
Nov - again ?!!!! :cool1:

Always good to check attractions off the list!

Slowly chipping away at the list.:rolleyes:



Nice picture! :thumbsup2

Thanks.



First the slushie and now this. Disney should pay you a commission!

Spreading cheer wherever I go. I have been asked if I worked there before.:lmao:



Newark, NJ? :confused3
Why on earth would I want to go to Newark?? :lmao:

I don't know how I didn't know you had this going on.

I don't have time to comment on everything, but I am caught up now and will try to keep on top of this until I leave on Thursday.

I did want to say that I love that photopass picture of you in front of the tree -- very pretty.

:welcome: I have been trying to see who I have not seen yet. Glad you found me.

Pat - that really is another very cute picture of you!

I completely forgot that there was a gingerbread house in there. Drat! :headache: I would have enjoyed seeing that.

More great pics!

I don't remember it being there the last time I went but I could have missed it. :confused3

Thanks for the compliment on the pics.

Loved the pics of the gingerbread house. The picture if you in front of the tree was great. I am so used to going in September and I look like a hot sweaty mess in all pics. Can't wait to see more.

My hair is usually up since it is always so hot. Thanks for the compliment.

[MeMom]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2594.jpg

Wonder how long this lasted him?
I mean, with you taking a couple of fries and part of the dessert, that really didn't qualify as him having a full meal, right? ;)

I'm just speculating, based on what I think my guys would come up with when they started talking about food an hour later. :laughing:

[Poolrat]

Wonder how long this lasted him?
I mean, with you taking a couple of fries and part of the dessert, that really didn't qualify as him having a full meal, right? ;)

I'm just speculating, based on what I think my guys would come up with when they started talking about food an hour later. :laughing:

This was taken at 3:37.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2594.jpg


This was taken at 3:44- after he started on the mousse.
http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2601.jpg

:rotfl2:

I had to snatch that fry quick. As quick as I can drink, he can eat. :rotfl2:

That held him until dinner. Can you remember how many times he asked when dinner was? His lack of running after Bella was because he needed more food. He went a whole 4 hours without eating. :rotfl2:


He has been know to eat a FULL dinner with the family and 2 hours later I catch him in the kitchen making another meal. Growing boys. :sad2:

[Wicket's Mom]

Your bear sounds like my second bear, the other three didn't eat as much as him, but they did their fair share. They are buying their own groceries now!

That PP of you in front of the tree is very nice indeed.:)

[Poolrat]

Your bear sounds like my second bear, the other three didn't eat as much as him, but they did their fair share. They are buying their own groceries now!

That PP of you in front of the tree is very nice indeed.:)

I had to go grocery shopping today. :scared1: I will turn around and have to buy just as much next week. Where he puts it, I have no idea.

[Wicket's Mom]

I had to go grocery shopping today. :scared1: I will turn around and have to buy just as much next week. Where he puts it, I have no idea.

I hear your pain! The sad thing was my biggest eater weighed 160 & was 6'1''.

It does get cheaper when they leave the den.:thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

I hear your pain! The sad thing was my biggest eater weighed 160 & was 6'1''.

It does get cheaper when they leave the den.:thumbsup2

He is about 5'9" and 125. A stringbean but he has some muscles.

My grocery bill will be next to nothing when he goes off to college. :laughing:

[vamassey1]

I tried to keep up with your last report but sadly got way behind. I'm hoping to better this time around.

I'm really enjoying the report so far. I have plans to finally try the Grand Mariner next month. After your report I'm leaning towards the orange one.

Lovely pictures with your drink and the photopass one.

Looking forward to more.

[Poolrat]

I tried to keep up with your last report but sadly got way behind. I'm hoping to better this time around.

I'm really enjoying the report so far. I have plans to finally try the Grand Mariner next month. After your report I'm leaning towards the orange one.

Lovely pictures with your drink and the photopass one.

Looking forward to more.

:welcome: I like both slushies but the sometimes the lemon is too much tart for me. I like sweet so the orange is usually good.

Waiting on the official PP to be delivered.

[MEK]

I just commented on the bear ( I mean the boy's) hearty appetite and my response disappeared. :confused3 What gives?

[that's nice]

WHEW! I'm glad I was only 4 updates behind!!!!! :yay::woohoo::yay:

Sorry your morning didn't start out too good... your 'breakfast' really sounded nasty! :crazy2:

Congrats on your DVC!!!! :woohoo::woohoo:

I had friends that were in WDW from 12/26-1/2 and I kept checking the ride times. :eek: Then I was watching everyday when the parks shut down. :scared1:

I'm glad the BEAR found something to eat! I see you had priorities... like a SLUSH from France! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

Can't wait to read more.. no I'm serious! :lmao::lmao:

[Poolrat]

I just commented on the bear ( I mean the boy's) hearty appetite and my response disappeared. :confused3 What gives?

i have had that happen all too often. The DIS has been a bear too!;)
WHEW! I'm glad I was only 4 updates behind!!!!! :yay::woohoo::yay:

:yay: :woohoo: :yay:

Sorry your morning didn't start out too good... your 'breakfast' really sounded nasty! :crazy2:

Egg thing :sick:, the fruit chews:thumbsup2



Congrats on your DVC!!!! :woohoo::woohoo:

I had friends that were in WDW from 12/26-1/2 and I kept checking the ride times. :eek: Then I was watching everyday when the parks shut down. :scared1:

It seemed like 2 years ago it was not as crowded. This year everyone seemed to be out.

I'm glad the BEAR found something to eat! I see you had priorities... like a SLUSH from France! :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

Can't wait to read more.. no I'm serious! :lmao::lmao:

The peanut MMs could only hold so long. :laughing: I asked him at the airport in MCO if he wanted to grab something, and he said no. He was excited to get to WDW too.

Chicken Nuggets was what he needed but the Slush is what I needed.:lmao:

[marvali]

Sorry I haven't been around much, but all caught back up! Love the updates. Haven't seen the Moroccan or Japanese Storytellers. I have so much to go back for!!! ;)

Some really great pictures, and I agree with so many others about that PP picture in front of the Christmas Tree........very nice!!! :thumbsup2
I had to go grocery shopping today. :scared1: I will turn around and have to buy just as much next week. Where he puts it, I have no idea.Try shopping for three of them!!! When they were all still at home, we had to go to the grocery store almost every day just to keep milk in the house...... :eek:

[Poolrat]

Sorry I haven't been around much, but all caught back up! Love the updates. Haven't seen the Moroccan or Japanese Storytellers. I have so much to go back for!!! ;)

There is always more. I still have a bunch on the list. Someday.


Some really great pictures, and I agree with so many others about that PP picture in front of the Christmas Tree........very nice!!! :thumbsup2
Try shopping for three of them!!! When they were all still at home, we had to go to the grocery store almost every day just to keep milk in the house...... :eek:

I got the official PP disk today!!!! I wasn't specifically waiting for it but I am glad it finally came.

The boy goes in spurts. I think I have a handle on it and then I look in the pantry and its empty. :eek: It is a cross between being too lazy to make himself something and being too hungry not to. :lmao:

[Poolrat]

AAARRHHH I lost this entire post.

I am tying this again. Against my better judgement.

A further explanation on the almost running out of gas fiasco. At the end of Nov I got a new car. A Honda civic Hybrid. With both kids driving, I do not need a minivan anymore. I could also use the better gas mileage.

I have noticed that including the airport trip, I seem to be having an emergency where gas is concerned. Out of the last 4 fills ups since I got the car, I have been in an emergency situation ( gas light on and low miles) 3 times.:eek:

I figured out that I am not judging the way the car uses gas too well. :rolleyes: I still couldn’t understand how I could be so ‘off’ with my judgment.
The car shows MPG for ‘trip segment’ and range of miles left until empty. I now have 20 small bar as a gas gauge instead of a needle.

Last Thursday, I had 6 bars and 160 miles to empty when I got home. Friday AM I turn the car on and I have 140 miles to empty and 5 bars. I drive 3-5 miles to run errands and when I get out I have 140 miles and 5 bars. :eek:
By the time I get to work and back home I am down to 90 miles and 4 bars. My plan of getting gas on Sunday is now out the window. :eek::eek:

I start the car Sat AM and I am now at 60 miles and 4 bars. When I finally get to the gas station after work I have 1 bar and 10 miles to empty. :eek::eek:
Clearly the Japanese have a different way of calculating MPG and miles to empty.:laughing:

The van had a more predictable way of calculating and I was used to it. I have a big learning curve ahead of me. :teacher:

Now I have a clipboard in the car so I can write down each day where the gas gauge is and figure out how to gauge the gauge. :sad2:

Now why am I telling you this? For 2 reasons-
1- I wanted to update a bit on why the airport fiasco came to be and…
2- To bring you to the top of the next page of course.;)

[Poolrat]

While the bear was eating, the drummers walked out.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2596.jpg

Decorations

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2598.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2599.jpg


The drummers coming back in.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2602.jpg

As we walked out I noticed an 'working gingerbread house' like in the GF.

Outside of the gingerbread house.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2603.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2604.jpg

The shingles were made of chocolate chip cookies

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2605.jpg

Now that the bear was fed, the emergency was over, for now. So now he had energy so he was on the go and I was chasing once again.

On to Italy, really only a drive by.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2606.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2607.jpg

Germany

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2608.jpg

Must get back here for a snack.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2609.jpg

Helga was out but she was in a new spot.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2610.jpg

Some special drinks for the holidays.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2612.jpg

This was near the outpost. I stopped and snapped a picture because there have been rumors of Brazil joining the World Showcase. I guess it is some inside joke to those who notice.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2613.jpg

It was pointing to the empty spot in the World Showcase.

I made it to China. I was thirsty. Again.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2614.jpg

Punkin and a few others have raved about the Peach Snap so I had to have one.

As I wait.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2615.jpg

All the yummy drinks

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2616.jpg

The poor CM was trying to coax out my drink.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2618.jpg

She was really having trouble but it was coming out slowly. I caught a glimpse of her name tag. It was He Luo. Like Hello? I have heard that when the CM has a name that does not translate, they well make one up. This certainly sounds like the case.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2619.jpg

I got Chris’ help once again. WOW - This was yummy. This will be on the WS list from now on. Cheaper that a Slushie. :) Also a bit more powerful.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2620.jpg

Chris had a mission in China. So we went back towards the store. Someone was going to get his shop on.

[wigdoutdismom]

Really? A peach snap, who would have thought?

OK, it sounds sweet and yummy!

Going on my list for March. Hic.:rolleyes1
Thanks for the help, can I get a map back to the Boardwalk please by way of the Tokyo Sunset?:laughing:

[MeMom]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2607.jpg


http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2608.jpg


World Showcase is extra beautiful during Christmas. :santa:

[eandesmom]

Ok I would have assumed that would be too sweet for me but...cheaper and stronger has me curious! I may need to try. How sweet?

[Poolrat]

Really? A peach snap, who would have thought?

OK, it sounds sweet and yummy!

Going on my list for March. Hic.:rolleyes1
Thanks for the help, can I get a map back to the Boardwalk please by way of the Tokyo Sunset?:laughing:

If you like Peach Schnapps, it is a really yummy drink. Maybe a July or Oct drink around the world??? :rolleyes1 Frozen drinks will be good in July.


We may need a DW, designated walker. :lmao:

World Showcase is extra beautiful during Christmas. :santa:

Yes It is. For me it is real toss up between Fall and Christmas. I think in MK Fall wins, For EPCOT, Christmas may win.

Ok I would have assumed that would be too sweet for me but...cheaper and stronger has me curious! I may need to try. How sweet?

It has Peach Schnapps but it may have some vodka in there too, I am not sure. Not sure if I thought it was stronger because I had the slush first or not but it had a bit more kick than the slushie.

Peach Schnapps can be pretty sweet but if you are OK with that then you will love the peach Snap.

[MEK]

Cheaper, stronger, and more plentiful! What's not to like about that drink? Must try one soon! Looks yummy!

I'm still sorry I missed the gingerbread house in America. BTW - that's a pretty funny shot of that lady's @$$. :rotfl: Sorry - too lazy to cut and past it with the DIS being so darn slow, but I did appreciate the laugh.

[Poolrat]

Cheaper, stronger, and more plentiful! What's not to like about that drink? Must try one soon! Looks yummy!

I'm still sorry I missed the gingerbread house in America. BTW - that's a pretty funny shot of that lady's @$$. :rotfl: Sorry - too lazy to cut and past it with the DIS being so darn slow, but I did appreciate the laugh.

The DIS is being impossible. Last night I was so mad. I finally started getting a server is busy try again later message.

I have to figure out how to set the time before I get a time out messge. At work it will just be slow but eventually load. At home after a 15-20 seconds I get a error message that there is a problem but it just because it times out.



I agree on the drink. A bigger cup, less money and a bit more of a punch. That one will stay on the list. I think I just need to find a cocktail in Canada and Norway to make it around the world. :rolleyes1 Of course if I actually find one in each country I may never make it all the way around. :laughing:


That lady walked right in front of me so I am sure I deleted a great one of her rear end. :lmao: The least I could do for her since she walked right in front of me. :upsidedow

[Poolrat]

If the DIS would have told me it posted my reply 8 minutes ago, I would not have kept trying. :badpc: :headache:

[wigdoutdismom]

Our designated walker will be .................................................. .................................................. ..................................................










MeMom :littleangel:


although I don't think she will want much to do with us if we are drinking around the world.:sad2:

[jenseib]

Does it taste like a fuzzy navel? I might need to find that next time. :rolleyes1

[MeMom]

Yes It is. For me it is real toss up between Fall and Christmas. I think in MK Fall wins, For EPCOT, Christmas may win.



I think I agree. Thus, the need for two trips. :)

Not happenin' this year, though. Fall in Magic Kingdom it will be. Christmas will be Disneyed up as best we can at home. Of course, I will not be complaining, because I think a new stocking on the mantle will make things plenty joyful this year. :santa:



Our designated walker will be .................................................. .................................................. ..................................................










MeMom :littleangel:


although I don't think she will want much to do with us if we are drinking around the world.:sad2:

Okay, picture this - a hobbling woman, one regular leg and one elephant leg showing between her capris cuffs and her Crocs.
She is corraling in, or attempting to, a giggling group of 'happy' girls. :jumping1:
She is probably not doing a very good job, as some are trying to do this: :tiptoe: to do more of this: :drinking1 http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/10.gif so she resorts to making a purchase of some kind of pretty World Showcase scarves and ties all the girls together by belt loops.
Slowly, but surely, she herds the group out the back gate and leaves them on Beach Club lounge chairs, securing each to their own chair (with the aforementioned pretty scarves ;)) so that they cannot get up and walk alone for a while.

Before she leaves to hobble back to the bus stop....
no, wait...:idea:...
she gets some cab money from the purse of the one with all the tattoos. :thumbsup2
Why should she have to hobble all the way back to the bus stop? :rolleyes1 Before she takes the cab back to Pop, she takes a picture of the Giggly Girl Gang so that they can fully appreciate their evening when they see the pictures the next day. :guilty::scared::crazy::faint:

[uncw89]

I think I agree. Thus, the need for two trips. :)

Not happenin' this year, though. Fall in Magic Kingdom it will be. Christmas will be Disneyed up as best we can at home. Of course, I will not be complaining, because I think a new stocking on the mantle will make things plenty joyful this year. :santa:





Okay, picture this - a hobbling woman, one regular leg and one elephant leg showing between her capris cuffs and her Crocs.
She is corraling in, or attempting to, a giggling group of 'happy' girls. :jumping1:
She is probably not doing a very good job, as some are trying to do this: :tiptoe: to do more of this: :drinking1 http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/10.gif so she resorts to making a purchase of some kind of pretty World Showcase scarves and ties all the girls together by belt loops.
Slowly, but surely, she herds the group out the back gate and leaves them on Beach Club lounge chairs, securing each to their own chair (with the aforementioned pretty scarves ;)) so that they cannot get up and walk alone for a while.

Before she leaves to hobble back to the bus stop....
no, wait...:idea:...
she gets some cab money from the purse of the one with all the tattoos. :thumbsup2
Why should she have to hobble all the way back to the bus stop? :rolleyes1 Before she takes the cab back to Pop, she takes a picture of the Giggly Girl Gang so that they can fully appreciate their evening when they see the pictures the next day. :guilty::scared::crazy::faint:

LOL!!!!!!:rotfl2::rotfl: would like to see this!!

[Kgroo]

Okay, picture this - a hobbling woman, one regular leg and one elephant leg showing between her capris cuffs and her Crocs.
She is corraling in, or attempting to, a giggling group of 'happy' girls. :jumping1:
She is probably not doing a very good job, as some are trying to do this: :tiptoe: to do more of this: :drinking1http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/10.gif so she resorts to making a purchase of some kind of pretty World Showcase scarves and ties all the girls together by belt loops.
Slowly, but surely, she herds the group out the back gate and
leaves them on Beach Club lounge chairs, securing each to their own
chair (with the aforementioned
pretty scarves ;)) so that they
cannot get up and walk alone for a
while.

Before she leaves to hobble back to the bus stop....
no, wait...:idea:...
she gets some cab money from
the purse of the one with all the
tattoos. :thumbsup2

Why should she have to hobble all the way back to the bus stop? :rolleyes1 Before she takes the
cab back to Pop, she takes a
picture of the Giggly Girl Gang so
that they can fully appreciate their
evening when they see the
pictures the next day.
:guilty::scared::crazy::faint:


That is too funny.

I haven't tried any of the beverages in China. That might have to be in my list for march. I love the GGS but it just seems to disappear too quickly. So, something bigger and stronger might do the trick. Great update.

[glennbo123]

Hmm, so I have to add Peach Snap to the list huh? Sounds good.

What was the deal with all of those lights in Italy? They're not there permanently, are they?

Oh, and your chapter title was from The Doors. ;)

[Poolrat]

Our designated walker will be .................................................. .................................................. ..................................................
MeMom :littleangel:


although I don't think she will want much to do with us if we are drinking around the world.:sad2:


Okay, picture this - a hobbling woman, one regular leg and one elephant leg showing between her capris cuffs and her Crocs.
She is corraling in, or attempting to, a giggling group of 'happy' girls. :jumping1:
She is probably not doing a very good job, as some are trying to do this: :tiptoe: to do more of this: :drinking1 http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/10.gif so she resorts to making a purchase of some kind of pretty World Showcase scarves and ties all the girls together by belt loops.
Slowly, but surely, she herds the group out the back gate and leaves them on Beach Club lounge chairs, securing each to their own chair (with the aforementioned pretty scarves ;)) so that they cannot get up and walk alone for a while.

Before she leaves to hobble back to the bus stop....
no, wait...:idea:...
she gets some cab money from the purse of the one with all the tattoos. :thumbsup2
Why should she have to hobble all the way back to the bus stop? :rolleyes1 Before she takes the cab back to Pop, she takes a picture of the Giggly Girl Gang so that they can fully appreciate their evening when they see the pictures the next day. :guilty::scared::crazy::faint:

LOL!!!!!!:rotfl2::rotfl: would like to see this!!

That is too funny.

:rotfl2:( I wanted more smilies but they coun't fit) Holy cow that is too funny!!!! Long pretty scarves and we can all walk in a line and hold on. :rotfl2: You have this all worked out. :laughing:

We would be a sight I tell ya. :rotfl2:



I haven't tried any of the beverages in China. That might have to be in my list for march. I love the GGS but it just seems to disappear too quickly. So, something bigger and stronger might do the trick. Great update.

punkin was all about the peach snap and she was so right!!!

I think I agree. Thus, the need for two trips. :)

Not happenin' this year, though. Fall in Magic Kingdom it will be. Christmas will be Disneyed up as best we can at home. Of course, I will not be complaining, because I think a new stocking on the mantle will make things plenty joyful this year. :santa:

I am Ok with the holiday trip every other year. A bit of the nuttiness that the crowds bring every other year is fine. I appreciate it more when I miss it.

Does it taste like a fuzzy navel? I might need to find that next time. :rolleyes1

Like a fuzzy navel but do I dare say a but more fuzzy? I think there was more Peach schnapps and I am not sure if there was anything else in there too.
Hmm, so I have to add Peach Snap to the list huh? Sounds good.

What was the deal with all of those lights in Italy? They're not there permanently, are they?

Oh, and your chapter title was from The Doors. ;)

Yes make time for the peach snap.

The light in Italy were for the NYE eve festivites. Several countries had DJ's and special drink booths set up. THey started showing up the next day.

+1 :thumbsup2 for the Doors. The title in honor of my Chinese CM and my new favorite drink.

[Captain_Oblivious]

As we walked out I noticed an 'working gingerbread house' like in the GF.

These pictures are making me hungry.

On to Italy, really only a drive by.

I like it better without the scaffolding.

I got Chris’ help once again. WOW - This was yummy. This will be on the WS list from now on. Cheaper that a Slushie. :) Also a bit more powerful.

It's on the menu as a Peach Snap! Do you have to shout when you order it? :confused3

[Poolrat]

These pictures are making me hungry.

No tasting hte gingerbread house, even though the smell is intoxicating.


I like it better without the scaffolding.


It was only up for NYE but it is int he way big time.


It's on the menu as a Peach Snap! Do you have to shout when you order it? :confused3

If you yell, you scare the Chinese girls working the kiosk. Maybe you are suppose to snap your fingers ? :laughing:

[that's nice]

AAARRHHH I lost this entire post.

I am tying this again. Against my better judgement.
The joys of being a DISer! :surfweb:

Man, your gas gage is messed up. Nothing like having that good 'ol needle!



You went for the Peach? I pegged you for a Canto Loopy type of gal! :lmao::lmao:

Great pics BTW! :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[KatGarcia]

I'm all caught up....better late than never, right??

LOVE me a peach snap- my fav epcot drink!!!

Fun start so far!

[vamassey1]

Very informative update. I showed Michelle (21 year old daughter) the drinks list. The peach sounds really good, but I think I want to try the one with mango. I may have to bypass the GGS in favor of this one. I can't do both, cause I'm a total lightweight.

Loved Memom's story.

[KatMark]

All caught up. Love the photos with the Christmas decorations.

That drink does look yummy...I'll have to try it the next time I visit.

[Poolrat]

The joys of being a DISer! :surfweb:

Man, your gas gage is messed up. Nothing like having that good 'ol needle!

It is sure is different. Now that I am tracking it, I actually am seeing a pattern. There is no real pattern to the range info. :lmao: ALso that I know I have a 13 gal tank instead of 10 ( My last non-minivan car was a 10.6 gal) I don't need to panic as I approach 400 miles on a tank.
My inital calculation indicate I was panicing when I still had plenty of gas. At about 2 gal left the light comes on so I theoretically have 80 miles left, well maybe a little less. I usually drive between 30- 50 miles on a normal work day so I have a day. Plenty of time for me toknow the light comes on a 3 bars and plan. :thumbsup2


You went for the Peach? I pegged you for a Canto Loopy type of gal! :lmao::lmao:

Great pics BTW! :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

I actually looked at the Canto Loopy. Sounded like my kind of drink. Cantaloupe is actually on the allergy list even though I used to eat it all the time. :confused3 I may do it next time and chase it with a Bendryl ... just in case.

I'm all caught up....better late than never, right??

LOVE me a peach snap- my fav epcot drink!!!

Fun start so far!

:welcome: Another Peach Snap fan! :yay:

Very informative update. I showed Michelle (21 year old daughter) the drinks list. The peach sounds really good, but I think I want to try the one with mango. I may have to bypass the GGS in favor of this one. I can't do both, cause I'm a total lightweight.

Loved Memom's story.

The GGS is alllll the way on the other side of WS. Walk slow and get a snack and you can totally do both. I have been pretty much a lightweight lately when at Disney. I don't get to practice much at home. :lmao:

There is a frozen Bacardi Mojito at the Refreshment Port near Canada that is now on my list. :thumbsup2

All caught up. Love the photos with the Christmas decorations.

That drink does look yummy...I'll have to try it the next time I visit.

Christmas decorations, even after Christmas are great in EPCOT.
Put it on your list Kathy, it is a keeper.

[that's nice]

It is sure is different. Now that I am tracking it, I actually am seeing a pattern. There is no real pattern to the range info. :lmao: ALso that I know I have a 13 gal tank instead of 10 ( My last non-minivan car was a 10.6 gal) I don't need to panic as I approach 400 miles on a tank.
My inital calculation indicate I was panicing when I still had plenty of gas. At about 2 gal left the light comes on so I theoretically have 80 miles left, well maybe a little less. I usually drive between 30- 50 miles on a normal work day so I have a day. Plenty of time for me toknow the light comes on a 3 bars and plan. :thumbsup2
13 gal tank????? :confused3

I have a 27 gal tank in my tahoe and a 33 gal tank in my Ford E250. I put $100 of gas into my van last night and I didn't even fill it up. :faint:



I actually looked at the Canto Loopy. Sounded like my kind of drink. Cantaloupe is actually on the allergy list even though I used to eat it all the time. :confused3 I may do it next time and chase it with a Bendryl ... just in case.
:lmao::lmao:

[Poolrat]

13 gal tank????? :confused3

I have a 27 gal tank in my tahoe and a 33 gal tank in my Ford E250. I put $100 of gas into my van last night and I didn't even fill it up. :faint:


My minivan had a 25 gal tank. I went from a $70-80 fill up every week or so to $33.00 every 10- 14 days. I love having a hybrid now. :love: So easy on the pocketbook.

[Poolrat]

Found this and it is recent.


We will be upgrading to some new servers over the next 10 days or so
There will be some occasional periods of downtime as we get ready to migrate
Like now
We should be back up in an hour or so

Thanks for your patience
Alex

[MEK]

Found this and it is recent.


We will be upgrading to some new servers over the next 10 days or so
There will be some occasional periods of downtime as we get ready to migrate
Like now
We should be back up in an hour or so

Thanks for your patience
Alex

The DIS does seem to be running a bit faster today! :thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

The DIS does seem to be running a bit faster today! :thumbsup2

I am even saying WOW with how fast it loads.

[Poolrat]

Chris had a mission in China. So we went back towards the store.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2622.jpg

This is what my son had his eye on.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2623.jpg

This boy rarely asks for anything, but when he does it always seems to be an odd choice. I humor him and the hat is his.

Somehow a wooden practice sword also makes it back to the resort. Wonder how we are going to get that home. :rolleyes:

As we leave China I see this.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2624.jpg

We are approaching Norway when I hear a certain Norwegian gnome. Lucky again , we stop for Julenissen.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2625.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2626.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2627.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2628.jpg

As the Story goes on Julenissen get to the part where everyone is asked to moo. A rather loud group of guys goes past. It looks like a bachelor party of sorts. I think there was a groom with groom ears on.

In any event, they were the loudest moo-ers. It actually interrupted the storytelling, but in a good way. Julenissen is pointing to them.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2629.jpg

You can see the backs of them here.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2630.jpg

This would not be the last time we see them.

As we listened, there was a meltdown going on nearby.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2631.jpg

When the story ended, it was time to move on again. Chris had another mission. He said his Spanish teacher had a dolphin and he wanted to get a sombrero for it.

On the way we passed the mariachi band.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2632.jpg


http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2633.jpg

Decorations in Mexico

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2634.jpg

We looked around and found a small sombrero. That was also sent back to the resort. I wanted to go look in the glass shop but we had to cross a line first.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2635.jpg

I was looking for a glass giraffe but did not find one. As we exited I realized the boat ride in Mexico had this unbelievable line.

Up the side of the marketplace.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2636.jpg

Out into the lobby area where the artist painting the wood animals are.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2637.jpg

Once outside in the daylight, we saw our loud boys. They are the ones trying to climb the pyramid.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2638.jpg

Some flowers long the way.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2639.jpg

We approach the EPCOT tree and I make Chris stop for a picture.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2640.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2641.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2642.jpg

Continued next post...

[Poolrat]

Continued from last post

We slowly make our way out.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2643.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2644.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2645.jpg

I guess we went through Innoventions

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2646.jpg

I think we had some time to kill but it was packed. How packed??

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2647.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2648.jpg

It was starting to get dark and while I had my sweatshirt, the ever warm boy had left his in the room. Now he decided he may need it later.
We should have enough time to get back to the room and then over to dinner.

It was about 5:30pm.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2649.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2650.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2651.jpg

By 5:35 we were at the SSR bus stop.
We see this.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2652.jpg

I was a bit confused as to how a guy with luggage was at the EPCOT busses.

We had good luck in EPCOT with storytellers so it was time for all the that good luck to even out.

30 minutes later we have a bus.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2656.jpg

We make it back to the room and drop off the hat and grab the sweatshirt.
We now choose to wait for a DTD bus. I figure it is close and then we can hop a resort bus. The other option would have been to either grab a Magic Kingdom bus and then monorail it. I am guessing the DTD bus came first.
By 6:43 we were here.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2657.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2658.jpg

We opted for Pleasure Island instead of the marketplace and luck was on our side. A GF/ Contemporary bus was right behind us.

We boarded at 6:47. After some conversation, Chris made the comment that there is a path between the GF and the Poly. Why Boy, you have been listening. He was right.

We get off at the GF and walk over to the Poly. We arrive right at 7:30. Yikes. Here I thought we had plenty of time.

We were meeting Memom, Jill and Crew and Anita and big crew for dinner at O’Hana.

I have only a few pictures from dinner.

The boys waiting.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2661.jpg

We were all able to get seated together and the food was plentiful. Brooklynn and Bella both fell asleep on Jill’s lap and Anita’s DGD Harper slept through dinner.

The only food picture I got.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2662.jpg

We ate, we laughed and we were stuffed. As the lights dimmed for the fireworks, dessert came. I had turned around in my chair to watch the fireworks and when the fireworks were done, there was some bread pudding left. I did have room for a bite.

The bill came. We had a good laugh over that. Our “cousin Patty” never did ask how we were settling the bill so it was all on one big tab.
Go ahead guess how much that bill was.
















http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2663.jpg

Now to be fair, the bill says 21 adults. We counted and didn’t have that many. I cannot recall an exact count but maybe 17? Three of the six kids were asleep and did not eat. That took some time and by the time we were all settled it was 11pm. Chris was going back to the room since we were up early. I stayed to settle the bill and went to MK with Anita and Mark to catch our respective busses back. I did not go over to Mk. I was just too full and tired.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2664.jpg

On a bus by 11:40 and back at SSR by midnight.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2666.jpg

Chris left around 10:30 and he opted to go to DTD to transfer. He got back to the room around 11:30. I left the poly a little after 11 and got back at 12am. Two different ways but about the same amount of time.
Of course when we arrived back at the room, I still had to make up the sofa bed.

I neglected to mention that when we arrived at the studio, I found a basket full of linens and things outside our door. It had towels and coffee and shampoo and stuff. We just checked in so I shouldn’t have a towel and trash service. Since this was my first visit as a DVC owner I had no idea what it was. I thought it might be for the unit next to us but it was by our door. Before we left for EPCOT I snagged it.

I pulled out what I thought were the sofa linens but it was just pillowcases.
Then I went to the closet to find the real linens and pillows. By the time we figured out how to get the bed set up we were wide awake.
It was probably 1 am before we settled down to sleep.

Next time- Our first Full day.

[nowellsl]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2663.jpg


:scared1:

Great pictures! You know it's packed when the Mexico ride has a line :goodvibes

[KatMark]

WOW -- look at those wait times!!!!!!!! :scared1::scared1: I don't think I could ever go at that time and deal with those type of wait times.

The guys with the mooing are cute....love the hat.

How in the world did they end up giving you 21 adults? I would have passed out seeing that bill.

I think what they do with the "laundry basket" is put it out for the rooms that they have to do that day and come back later; I've noticed this twice now at OKW.

[Poolrat]

:scared1:

That's what we did!!! It was put face down between Anita and me and Marc dared to pick it up and look. Once we got over the shock , we just laughed. :rotfl2:


Great pictures! You know it's packed when the Mexico ride has a line :goodvibes

At first, I saw the rope and then looked around to see why and what was going on. I could not believe it stretched all the way to the entrance.

[Poolrat]

WOW -- look at those wait times!!!!!!!! :scared1::scared1: I don't think I could ever go at that time and deal with those type of wait times.

That Wed and Thursday were some of the most crowded days. If you plan right you can zag when the crowd zigs. This trip, I had some trouble doing that but the last trip I was better prepared and had no trouble at all.


The guys with the mooing are cute....love the hat.
It was pretty funny.


How in the world did they end up giving you 21 adults? I would have passed out seeing that bill.

Anita had her whole clan at dinner so all but 7 were hers. :laughing: MemOm had 5 Adults in her group and then Chris and I .
Quite a few of us were on the DDP so that helped when we saw the bill.


I think what they do with the "laundry basket" is put it out for the rooms that they have to do that day and come back later; I've noticed this twice now at OKW.

I did look around for housekeeping and I could not see or hear anyone. Since our room was ready, I figured housekeeping had already been around this end so I just swiped it. :eek: We had plenty of towels for our stay. :rolleyes1

It was an odd assortment of items, towles and pillowcases but no sheets. Pack n play sheet and then detergent, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, bowls and plasticware. It did not seem complete to change over a room but it seemed more than trash and towel.
I was a little worried we were going to get charged for the extra items but we didn't.

[Poolrat]

Some of the photpass pictures

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0561FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0562FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0565FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0566FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0569FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0572FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0574FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0577FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0578FourBySix.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0586FourBySix.jpg

[KatMark]

Great photopass pictures, Pat!

[glennbo123]

Very, very nice photopass pictures Pat!

So, has the boy worn that hat since he got back home?

Are you sure Julenissen wasn't pointing at Marv? Kinda looks like it the way he's using that wooden spoon. ;)

Wow, what a dinner bill. :faint:

[BMC423]

Great pictures! I can never get enough of Disney all decked out for the Holidays. Your son looks just like you! Did he find the sombero for the dolphin?!
Your PP pics are beautiful!

[MEK]

:faint: to the 250 minute wait at soarin (or was it 240?)

:faint: to the line in Mexico out the door.

:faint: to the Ohana bill. WTH? Did she think you were all drunk and didn't know how many people ate dinner? That's insane! Plus why the heck wouldn't she ask if you wanted separate bills? :confused3

Lots of traveling around you did. But it sounds like you had a very fun dinner DIS meet.

Great pictures of you and Chris.

I didn't realize this was your first DVC stay. Anxious to hear what you thought of SSR (its one of my home resorts)

[wigdoutdismom]

Well, here's the deal with dinner.
We had ressies for 28.....
I don't think we knew how many for sure were going to show up.
Everyone that was there was on the dining plan so that was a giant relief.
Still an ouch on the tip! :laughing:

[eandesmom]

I can't believe that was the line for DONALD! Wow.

Those are some gorgeous pics of you Pat, the boy doesn't look too shabby either, I love the one of the 2 of you in front of the tree. You are having an exceptionally photogenic trip...you look so happy in your pics, they are just lovely.

Weird about the towel and trash, I thought they actually came in and did that for you every whatever number of days it is. It was funny last spring though, we had 3 linked ressies for 5 nights and even though they were linked, they changed our stuff out pretty much every day. I have another linked ressie coming up this summer, it will be interesting to see if they see it as 5 nights for towel and trash, or as 2 separate stays.

21 adults :scared1: thank heavens you were all on the DDP, that does make it a lot easier but to have to get them to adjust it like that, what a pita. And how can you be THAT off? Out of curiosity, did they make you guys pay for the sleeping kids that didn't eat?

[Wicket's Mom]

I would love to see the parks Christmas decor, but I don't ever want to be there with that many people!:scared1:

I've got to say the boy is a very cute young man. I bet the girls are after him.

Nice photopass pics, they'd make great Christmas cards.

[Poolrat]

Great photopass pictures, Pat!


Very, very nice photopass pictures Pat!

Thank you both.


So, has the boy worn that hat since he got back home?

Not out in public as far as I can tell. :rolleyes: His reasoning was he needed something for summer lifeguarding. I tried telling him a baseball hat might be more practical but ....

Now he does get home from school before me so I cannot be 100% sure it never has been worn.


Are you sure Julenissen wasn't pointing at Marv? Kinda looks like it the way he's using that wooden spoon. ;)

I tried getting a picture with him afterwards when I saw the spoon but they cut the line off. :mad:


Wow, what a dinner bill. :faint:

It was.

Great pictures! I can never get enough of Disney all decked out for the Holidays. Your son looks just like you! Did he find the sombero for the dolphin?!
Your PP pics are beautiful!

EPCOT at Christmas is great. He did find a small sombreo for the Spanish teachers dolphin. I never did get a picture since we sent it right to the room and he took it to school when we got back. :sad2:
Thanks about the pictures.


:faint: to the 250 minute wait at soarin (or was it 240?)

:faint: to the line in Mexico out the door.

That day was pretty crowded.



:faint: to the Ohana bill. WTH? Did she think you were all drunk and didn't know how many people ate dinner? That's insane! Plus why the heck wouldn't she ask if you wanted separate bills? :confused3

Anita said it best but I am surprised she didn't ask. She may have asked the other side of the table (Mostly Anita's crew) and maybe they did not know what to tell her.

What made it more fun was some of the boys- Trent John, Jarvis and Baylor and maybe more guys left after the meal to go to MK. Cousin Patty made it all right in the end but luckily we did not have drinks or it might have taken longer. We were joking that we were going to sleep there and we were already picking out spots.



Lots of traveling around you did. But it sounds like you had a very fun dinner DIS meet.

It was fun. I look forward to doing it again this summer. :goodvibes


Great pictures of you and Chris.

I didn't realize this was your first DVC stay. Anxious to hear what you thought of SSR (its one of my home resorts)

Thanks- he was pretty cooperative with the pictures.

This was the first one with my points. :cool1: We were in the Grandstand section so the first bus stop was great. I wish I really had to totally explore the resort but sadly I did not. We did find our way around pretty easily ... after we found the room the first time. I requested close to transporation and we were so there were oly a few time we wandered.

[Poolrat]

Well, here's the deal with dinner.
We had ressies for 28.....
I don't think we knew how many for sure were going to show up.
Everyone that was there was on the dining plan so that was a giant relief.
Still an ouch on the tip! :laughing:

What she said.... It sure took a while and if she would have asked we might have shaved enough time to actually shop downstairs, but it was all good. A great time.

I can't believe that was the line for DONALD! Wow.

Me either. I had to take a picture of that. :laughing: I don't think I ever , I mean ever- when EPCOT first opened or even 2 years ago during the same time, have seen a line that long.

Now the did have the stanchions in the floor so I assume at one time the line spilled out into the marketplace but not up the ramp and into the first lobby area.



Those are some gorgeous pics of you Pat, the boy doesn't look too shabby either, I love the one of the 2 of you in front of the tree. You are having an exceptionally photogenic trip...you look so happy in your pics, they are just lovely.

Thank you. If the boy would keep his hair under control I would like it better but I don't fuss as long as it is clean. :laughing:
I am happy and I guess divorce agrees with me. :confused3 I am happy and more relaxed and enjoying what life will bring me.


Weird about the towel and trash, I thought they actually came in and did that for you every whatever number of days it is. It was funny last spring though, we had 3 linked ressies for 5 nights and even though they were linked, they changed our stuff out pretty much every day. I have another linked ressie coming up this summer, it will be interesting to see if they see it as 5 nights for towel and trash, or as 2 separate stays.

It threw me and being a DVC newbie I had no idea what to do. I asked Anita at dinner but by then I had grabbed the basket. I never saw housekeeping as we were only there 3 nights, but I made full use of the some of the extra supplies and put what I didn't use in the cabinets.


21 adults :scared1: thank heavens you were all on the DDP, that does make it a lot easier but to have to get them to adjust it like that, what a pita. And how can you be THAT off? Out of curiosity, did they make you guys pay for the sleeping kids that didn't eat?

Memom and crew paid for their meals but some of Anitas crew ( or all ) were on the DDP and I added the DDP for Chris and I since he wanted to eat at WWC and O'Hana it made sense. For the 3 days of the plan, it was fine. I think I barely ate the last 3 days. :laughing:

Cousin Patty did credit us for the sleeping kids meals. We went over with her who was there and she fixed it. I don't thik she asked in the beginning about the bill but were all at one big table.

I would love to see the parks Christmas decor, but I don't ever want to be there with that many people!:scared1:

If you can get there after Thanksgiving and before school gets out you will have lower crowds. If you can't do that then up early and out when it gets nuts and then back for EMH. :thumbsup2


I've got to say the boy is a very cute young man. I bet the girls are after him.

Nice photopass pics, they'd make great Christmas cards.

Thank you. He has an old soul so he does not go for the "typical " high school girls. Or I should say they won't go for him. :laughing:
I may use some of them for a card next year. :idea:

[MeMom]

What made it more fun was some of the boys- Trent John, Jarvis and Baylor and maybe more guys left after the meal to go to MK. Cousin Patty made it all right in the end but luckily we did not have drinks or it might have taken longer. We were joking that we were going to sleep there and we were already picking out spots.




We could have marked Poly off of our list of resorts we have spent the night at without even paying if it had gone much longer. ;)





http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2662.jpg

We ate, we laughed and we were stuffed. As the lights dimmed for the fireworks, dessert came. I had turned around in my chair to watch the fireworks and when the fireworks were done, there was some bread pudding left. I did have room for a bite.

More, please. ::yes::

The bread pudding - I think I dream of that stuff! Yummmmm! I am surprised to hear that there was a bite left. Was that the same pan that Marc, Anita, Jill, and I were eating from?

When we go in July, I plan to go down to Captain Cook's and get Brooklynn's food, since she won't eat the 'Ohana food. I hope they will be okay with her taking up a chair at no charge again, and we will be sure to get the bill straightened out when we first order. :thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

We could have marked Poly off of our list of resorts we have spent the night at without even paying if it had gone much longer. ;)

No joke. We were the last ones out the door.






More, please. ::yes::

WE so need to bring the ziplock bags next time.


The bread pudding - I think I dream of that stuff! Yummmmm! I am surprised to hear that there was a bite left. Was that the same pan that Marc, Anita, Jill, and I were eating from?
I believe so. While I was watching Wishes, you were all digging in to that wonderful dessert. They lowered the lights so nobody noticed you left me a bite. :laughing:


When we go in July, I plan to go down to Captain Cook's and get Brooklynn's food, since she won't eat the 'Ohana food. I hope they will be okay with her taking up a chair at no charge again, and we will be sure to get the bill straightened out when we first order. :thumbsup2

I think we learned a bit on that last trip and hopefully we can make it go more smoothly this time. :teacher:
We may need to adjust the reservation as we get closer because I think that is one of the resturants that will charge for no shows.

[uncw89]

We could have marked Poly off of our list of resorts we have spent the night at without even paying if it had gone much longer. ;)






More, please. ::yes::

The bread pudding - I think I dream of that stuff! Yummmmm! I am surprised to hear that there was a bite left. Was that the same pan that Marc, Anita, Jill, and I were eating from?

When we go in July, I plan to go down to Captain Cook's and get Brooklynn's food, since she won't eat the 'Ohana food. I hope they will be okay with her taking up a chair at no charge again, and we will be sure to get the bill straightened out when we first order. :thumbsup2

I think you can get kid food at O'hana, you just have to ask.

[Poolrat]

I think you can get kid food at O'hana, you just have to ask.

I think so too but will they charge you the buffet price for something you can get downstairs or will they charge an a la cart price???

I found this on Allears.

NOTE: ALTERNATIVE CHILDREN'S SELECTIONS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

[uncw89]

I'm not sure! Probably kid's meal price.

[Poolrat]

I'm not sure! Probably kid's meal price.

That would be $15.99 according to allears. I would hope if all they offer is Mac and cheese it would be less.

[jenseib]

Found this and it is recent.


We will be upgrading to some new servers over the next 10 days or so
There will be some occasional periods of downtime as we get ready to migrate
Like now
We should be back up in an hour or so

Thanks for your patience
Alex

Holy cow on that bill. I can't believe she didn't count right or ask how the bill was to be done. Thats not right.

[Kgroo]

Wonderful pics of you and Chris!!!! You were certainly having a good picture day :thumbsup2 I can't believe the wait for the ride in Mexico - I don't even think that I knew there was a place for a line for that ride :confused3 We have always just walked on.

We love O'hana - can't even fathom that bill though :scared1:

Great pics and update.

[Captain_Oblivious]

This is what my son had his eye on.

He wanted to be a rickshaw driver? :confused3

As we listened, there was a meltdown going on nearby.

This is the happiest place on earth! You will have fun or else!

Once outside in the daylight, we saw our loud boys. They are the ones trying to climb the pyramid.

Been hitting the peach snap, huh? :rotfl2:

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2648.jpg

So who actually gets in that line? :eek:

Go ahead guess how much that bill was.

:eek: :faint:

I hope at the very least you got a TV with it or something. :rotfl:

[Poolrat]

Holy cow on that bill. I can't believe she didn't count right or ask how the bill was to be done. Thats not right.

I was kind of surprised she didn't either but with everything and everyone having a good time, I may not have noticed if she did.
The count may have been brought over by the reservation for 28. I guessed they never did count but with a group of that size, it was a bit nutty.


Wonderful pics of you and Chris!!!! You were certainly having a good picture day :thumbsup2 I can't believe the wait for the ride in Mexico - I don't even think that I knew there was a place for a line for that ride :confused3 We have always just walked on.

Usually I walk right on too. The little queue usually is annoying enought o go through. :laughing: The stanchion poles went into the ground so at one time it was set up for a longer line.


We love O'hana - can't even fathom that bill though :scared1:
Great pics and update.

O'hana is great! Knowing I didn't have to pay the whole bill was enough to make me laugh.

He wanted to be a rickshaw driver? :confused3

Either that or work in a rice field.



This is the happiest place on earth! You will have fun or else!

I tried yelling that out but she was screaming too loud to hear me. :rolleyes1



Been hitting the peach snap, huh? :rotfl2:
They didn't have drinks in their hands but they were probably drinking around the world. :drink:



So who actually gets in that line? :eek:

That is what we were saying when I brought A and B in 2009. People standing in a line for 4 HOURS!!! :eek:



:eek: :faint:

I hope at the very least you got a TV with it or something. :rotfl:

We almost got a night at the Poly. Any longer and we would have had to sleep there. :lmao:
Considering we did not have a big bar tab, the total is pretty impressive.

[Poolrat]

Yikes I had to search for my own TR. :lmao:


Now that the DIS is moving a bit faster ( not now of course) I will hopefully get to an update. Way to busy in real life in my neck of the woods.



Anywho.... Sometime during this trip I got a tip from a CM about the enforcement of FP times. Well it is official. Here is the article.

http://attractionsmagazine.com/blog/2012/02/08/walt-disney-world-theme-parks-to-start-enforcing-fastpass-return-times/

[glennbo123]

Anywho.... Sometime during this trip I got a tip from a CM about the enforcement of FP times. Well it is official. Here is the article.

http://attractionsmagazine.com/blog/2012/02/08/walt-disney-world-theme-parks-to-start-enforcing-fastpass-return-times/

I saw that on another thread a day or two ago. I was hoping that it was just a rumor that wouldn't come to fruition, but it looks like it has. I don't know that it will affect me too much -- I think we pretty much adhered to the return time window anyway, but it was nice to not have to worry about it.

I guess mostly I'm just not sure why they're messing with the system, it seemed to work okay the way it was.

[marvali]

Now why am I telling you this? For 2 reasons-
1- I wanted to update a bit on why the airport fiasco came to be and…
2- To bring you to the top of the next page of course.;)Glenn would be sooooo proud!
My minivan had a 25 gal tank. I went from a $70-80 fill up every week or so to $33.00 every 10- 14 days. I love having a hybrid now. :love: So easy on the pocketbook.Just wait until you have to replace those batteries......... :rolleyes1
We are approaching Norway when I hear a certain Norwegian gnome. Lucky again , we stop for Julenissen.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2626.jpg

That doesn't look like my Sigrid............

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2628.jpg

........but I'm pretty sure that is the same Julenissen!!!

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%201%20Dec%2029th/IMG_2629.jpg

Hey, he's still got MY SPOON!!!!!! :banana:

Are you sure Julenissen wasn't pointing at Marv? Kinda looks like it the way he's using that wooden spoon. ;)

That does look like the way he kept pointing it at me! I bet he still remembers me too........... :laughing:

[Poolrat]

I saw that on another thread a day or two ago. I was hoping that it was just a rumor that wouldn't come to fruition, but it looks like it has. I don't know that it will affect me too much -- I think we pretty much adhered to the return time window anyway, but it was nice to not have to worry about it.

I guess mostly I'm just not sure why they're messing with the system, it seemed to work okay the way it was.


I think they are ready to release next gen FP and that may have something to do with it.:confused3
The article was saying 5 min early to FP window but I think they should stick with the beginning time.
They will have to review people who miss the time and then take time to hear their excuse. ARD, travel, character meet and greet time.

It is my hope ( and only my best guess) that next gen will enable the guest to pick their time. If this happens then sicne you picked the time, you will actually show up during the time.

The negative side right now ( or after March 1 ) is that you potentially will not even pick up a FP if the return time is not convenient.
That can mean:
1 - You don't ride -
2- You wait until the window is at a more convenient time-
3- You ride stand by.

With the addition of mobile apps - perhaps you can get a virtual FP on your phone so actually visiting the FP machine does not have to happen?
That will require verification of enry into the park but hey it could happen.


I guess we shall see.

Glenn would be sooooo proud!
Just wait until you have to replace those batteries......... :rolleyes1



Hopefully that will be along time before I have to think about replacing those batteries.


Hey, he's still got MY SPOON!!!!!! :banana:


That does look like the way he kept pointing it at me! I bet he still remembers me too........... :laughing:

I actually took that picture with you in mind. :goodvibes I realy wanted a picture with him and the spoon but they closed the line after only a couple of kids. :mad:

[Captain_Oblivious]

Yikes I had to search for my own TR. :lmao:


Now that the DIS is moving a bit faster ( not now of course) I will hopefully get to an update. Way to busy in real life in my neck of the woods.



Anywho.... Sometime during this trip I got a tip from a CM about the enforcement of FP times. Well it is official. Here is the article.

http://attractionsmagazine.com/blog/2012/02/08/walt-disney-world-theme-parks-to-start-enforcing-fastpass-return-times/

This will most likely help the standby lines move a little faster, but will make those morning rushes for Soarin' and TSM even worse!

[MEK]

I heard that about the FP times and I have to admit that I am bummed because I do like getting FPs during the day and using them at night from time to time. Most of the time I stay in the window, but sometimes it just isn't going to happen. Oh well. Maybe more people will be giving away their FPs when they know the time won't fit.

[lovegrumpy]

Great photo pass pictures!!!

[eandesmom]

I think they are ready to release next gen FP and that may have something to do with it.:confused3
The article was saying 5 min early to FP window but I think they should stick with the beginning time.
They will have to review people who miss the time and then take time to hear their excuse. ARD, travel, character meet and greet time.

It is my hope ( and only my best guess) that next gen will enable the guest to pick their time. If this happens then sicne you picked the time, you will actually show up during the time.

The negative side right now ( or after March 1 ) is that you potentially will not even pick up a FP if the return time is not convenient.
That can mean:
1 - You don't ride -
2- You wait until the window is at a more convenient time-
3- You ride stand by.

With the addition of mobile apps - perhaps you can get a virtual FP on your phone so actually visiting the FP machine does not have to happen?
That will require verification of enry into the park but hey it could happen.


This will be interesting to see how it plays out. I heard it was definitely related to the next gen fast pass.

I heard that about the FP times and I have to admit that I am bummed because I do like getting FPs during the day and using them at night from time to time. Most of the time I stay in the window, but sometimes it just isn't going to happen. Oh well. Maybe more people will be giving away their FPs when they know the time won't fit.

We stick to the window most of the time but I'm with you, I loved knowing that I could come back and use it later if I needed to. I've probably only done it twice but both were kind of key times and I'd have been sad to have missed out otherwise.

I can't imagine that this is really abused though, the VAST majority of park visitors wouldn't have a clue!

[Poolrat]

This will most likely help the standby lines move a little faster, but will make those morning rushes for Soarin' and TSM even worse!

I have no idea if they had a problem with the lines in the fastpass line getting longer later in the day.
I think mid day it will affect people more. You arrive at 1 and the FP return for let's say SM is 4:30. But standby is 50 min. You have ARDs at 5:30 at resort but the park is open until 1 am. You can't use a FP late so do you get in line and wait or not ride? OR hope if you come back the line will be shorter at night?

[Poolrat]

I heard that about the FP times and I have to admit that I am bummed because I do like getting FPs during the day and using them at night from time to time. Most of the time I stay in the window, but sometimes it just isn't going to happen. Oh well. Maybe more people will be giving away their FPs when they know the time won't fit.



I do the same thing. I usually don't pay too much attention to the end time. At MK for instance there is a real possibilty to have a couple of FP that will come due at the same time and still be across the park. Think BMTRR and SM or Buzz. That could add an element of stress to my touring. :rolleyes:

Great photo pass pictures!!!

Thanks !!

[Poolrat]

This will be interesting to see how it plays out. I heard it was definitely related to the next gen fast pass.

I really hope the next gen is a "pick your time". Way back when we went to Universal and IoA they were introducing a system and it had the option of 2 or 3 windows to pick. That way you can still have a bit of control over the return time.



We stick to the window most of the time but I'm with you, I loved knowing that I could come back and use it later if I needed to. I've probably only done it twice but both were kind of key times and I'd have been sad to have missed out otherwise.

I can't imagine that this is really abused though, the VAST majority of park visitors wouldn't have a clue!

I usually do. Where I get into 'saving' them is return times during meal time. A return time an hour or even two is usually used during that time. A return time 4 or 5 hours later is usually used later.

If they are making exceptions for being at a meal they are going to open themselves up for some people who will be unhappy when they are told no. The inconsistency of being able to do it sometimes is what makes people nuts. I work with the public, I know. :rolleyes1

[Poolrat]

Day 2 Dec 30th
A Disney night becomes a Disney day. With parks opening at 7 and 8 am I opt for one with an 8 am rope drop. I was up and here by 7:15.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2667.jpg

I let the bear sleep.

Morning coffee was on board so I actually remembered to take notes.
The bus went in this order:
Grandstand, Carousel, Paddock, Congress Park and then the Springs.


Where was I going?
DHS

We were just about a t the park. I had a front seat on the bus so I could see the doors. Just as we were going to pull a left into the DHS parking lot, a van cut us off.

YES a van cut off a HUGE Disney bus. The van was so clueless. Suddenly the bus screeched and swerved. I could see the vans tail lights practically at the bus doors. We missed each other by inches. Well if anyone was still groggy from getting up so early that woke us up.
With everyone now like this :scared1: we pullinto DHS


This time we pull over to the SSR stop. Most of my times when I stayed at the values we were left off at the curb by the EPCOT bus stop.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2668.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2670.jpg

It was 7:44 and no lines at the turnstiles but they appeared to be open. Had I miscalculated?

Nope they were open. So I walk right in and say hey to BO.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2671.jpg

No real crowds but clearly the park was open.
There was this nice girl at the end of street making all sorts of announcements and welcoming everyone to DHS.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2672.jpg

Yes, she waved just for me.

Just in case you were wondering, I was in shorts and a sweatshirt. :laughing:


As I walked down the street I hear her announce a flash mob at 2:30 right before the parade.


HA I knew it was a flash mob that I saw in Oct.


Crowds

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2673.jpg

Of course I hustled right to TSM to get a FP.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2679.jpg

I hoped the stand by was reasonable. I was greeted with

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2675.jpg

Score.

Going through the stand by line gave me the opportunity to try to get a better avatar shot

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2677.jpg

Anyone notice ??? I think it is a bit clearer. :confused3

I still have a problem with this crayon. I know in the FP line there is a crayon with the same color name, but it is not the same shade.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2678.jpg

I know silly but Disney does not make that mistake.

I was zooming through in record time. By the time I got here, I told him I was a party of 1.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2680.jpg

Up the right side.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2681.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2682.jpg

I was on the stairs by 8 am. I did ask a CM what time they opened this morning and he said about 7:45. He said we were ready so we opened a little early.

Where else does that happen?!?!?

Then I see John, the CM. You have to trust me on the name, ;) I did not get a picture of the name tag.

This child was on it. Now I say child because

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2683.jpg

Well, he looks twelve. They were pulling everyone in to work.

Don’t let his youthful face fool you. He was moving that line and keeping it all straight. He was keeping the # in the party and the rows to send them all clear and calm. I even told him what a great job he did.

Soon I was off and shooting. My arm was hurting.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2684.jpg

A horrible score. I just needed to warm up.
Even though it was still the best in the car.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2685.jpg

My FP was for 9:25 and it was only 8:15. What else should I do before my FP window opens?

[vamassey1]

What a scary start to your day!:scared1: Better wake call than coffee.

Crowds look fabulous! I think I read somewhere that they were opening the park a little earlier to prevent the big TSMM dash. Hope they are still doing it when we get there on the 20th.

So are you off for a thrill ride? Maybe RRC or Tot?

[glennbo123]

Yikes on that van cutting off the bus. The sad thing is the bus driver would have probably gotten into trouble for that.

Wow! They opened DHS early?! Hard to believe.

I've never noticed that crayon. Strange.

Good going, getting the high-score in your car! :rolleyes:

[Poolrat]

What a scary start to your day!:scared1: Better wake call than coffee.

Crowds look fabulous! I think I read somewhere that they were opening the park a little earlier to prevent the big TSMM dash. Hope they are still doing it when we get there on the 20th.

So are you off for a thrill ride? Maybe RRC or Tot?


During the holidays it was probabaly wise to stop the show and just open early. I cannot believe the attention TSMM still gets after it has been open for so long.

I may attempt a walk down Sunset.... :rolleyes1

Yikes on that van cutting off the bus. The sad thing is the bus driver would have probably gotten into trouble for that.

Some guy on the bus said we actually touched but if we did we would have had to stop. It was close .... real close. No One fell out of their seat but a couple of people dozing woke up real quick. :laughing:


Wow! They opened DHS early?! Hard to believe.

I checked my watch a few times as I walked up. I wasn't going to be real happy if I had to hang out in front for another hour.


I've never noticed that crayon. Strange.

I never seem to get a picture of them both since one is in the stand by line and one is in the FP line. I need to search through my pictures and find them both. It really bothers me. :laughing:


Good going, getting the high-score in your car! :rolleyes:

Considering the vehicle is all 4 sides of the 2 cars... You can see the reflection in the high score picture that it is on the cars behind you and 2 cars move together. It took me a while to realize that. Especially when I rode with soemone and neither of us had the high score in our vehicle.

[MEK]

I am totally impressed with your early HS arrival. :worship: I think I could only accomplish that going solo and perhaps I will try a little solo arrival this summer. I never want to stand in the TSM FP line from hell ever again. :rotfl:

Great pics as usual and that CM does look like he's at least 13! :rotfl2:

[MeMom]

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2668.jpg


It is so nice to be greeted by the beautiful tree to start your day in Hollywood. :wizard: Look at the sunshine and that blue sky! :woohoo:

[MeMom]

I am totally impressed with your early HS arrival.

I have to ask...

what do you think of this early arrival? :laughing:

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6290.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6293.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6294.jpg

This was about 6:40 for a 7 a.m. opening the day after Christmas. Not nearly as inviting a scene as when Pat walked up to the sunshine and blue sky, but wonderful for walking right on rides with zero wait.

Don't tell anyone, though. We want everyone else to keep sleeping in while we enjoy the empty parks at rope drops. :thumbsup2

[that's nice]

I think they are ready to release next gen FP and that may have something to do with it.:confused3
The article was saying 5 min early to FP window but I think they should stick with the beginning time.
They will have to review people who miss the time and then take time to hear their excuse. ARD, travel, character meet and greet time.

It is my hope ( and only my best guess) that next gen will enable the guest to pick their time. If this happens then sicne you picked the time, you will actually show up during the time.

The negative side right now ( or after March 1 ) is that you potentially will not even pick up a FP if the return time is not convenient.
That can mean:
1 - You don't ride -
2- You wait until the window is at a more convenient time-
3- You ride stand by.

With the addition of mobile apps - perhaps you can get a virtual FP on your phone so actually visiting the FP machine does not have to happen?
That will require verification of enry into the park but hey it could happen.


I guess we shall see.
I am so glad we are going in November. I hope all the kinks with this new system have worked them self out by then. :headache:

I think they are going to have to give a bigger window for the return times... possibly 2 hours. Then there are no excuses... but we were a family that returned after the window. We didn't hoard them all till the last minute, but we did use them past the window.

I think the nex-gen system is going to reward Disney hotel guests and make it harder or even non-existant for people staying off property to get a FP. :headache::mad::headache:


WTG! getting to the studios early. Good thing that van didn't hit ya. I have a feeling that would of set you back a few minutes.

You got a beaver with your score! :)

I hope you went and walked on to RNRC or ToT. ;)

[tinacaplan]

My minivan had a 25 gal tank. I went from a $70-80 fill up every week or so to $33.00 every 10- 14 days. I love having a hybrid now. :love: So easy on the pocketbook.

:scared1: Wow...that's for sure an argument in favor of buying a hybrid. My husband has a fairly long commute to work and gas is killing us!

I can't get over the line for Donald OR your bill at 'Ohana. Wow. Pricey.
Thanks for the extra transportation at SSR tips, too.

Your Photopass pictures came out great, too. You look super happy, which always seems to make people even more photogenic. :goodvibes

DHS looks like it got off to a great start.

I've never gone back after the window, personally. Always been a bit scared they'd call me out on on it, despite having heard on the Dis countless times that its really OK. :confused3 We'll see what the Nextgen system has in store, though.

[Poolrat]

I am totally impressed with your early HS arrival. :worship: I think I could only accomplish that going solo and perhaps I will try a little solo arrival this summer. I never want to stand in the TSM FP line from hell ever again. :rotfl:

Great pics as usual and that CM does look like he's at least 13! :rotfl2:

It was nice to get up and get going. Not seeing anyone at the turnstiles freaked me out a bit. However you think I got there early see below.

That CM sure looked young. :laughing:

It is so nice to be greeted by the beautiful tree to start your day in Hollywood. :wizard: Look at the sunshine and that blue sky! :woohoo:

It was a beautiful day. Our weather was great for that trip.

I have to ask...

what do you think of this early arrival? :laughing:

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6290.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6293.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f286/missjill5/Christmas%202012%20Disney%20Trip/December%2026th/IMG_6294.jpg

This was about 6:40 for a 7 a.m. opening the day after Christmas. Not nearly as inviting a scene as when Pat walked up to the sunshine and blue sky, but wonderful for walking right on rides with zero wait.

Don't tell anyone, though. We want everyone else to keep sleeping in while we enjoy the empty parks at rope drops. :thumbsup2

Now that is early. :eek: I did have a choice between a 7 am rope drop at AK and probably MK but I did opt for a 8 am at DHS.

[Poolrat]

I am so glad we are going in November. I hope all the kinks with this new system have worked them self out by then. :headache:

I am sure the rumors are worse than the reality. At least I hope so.


I think they are going to have to give a bigger window for the return times... possibly 2 hours. Then there are no excuses... but we were a family that returned after the window. We didn't hoard them all till the last minute, but we did use them past the window.

That was talked about too. I am just waiting to see how this all works out. Trying to enforce something that has not been enforced is usually very hard and does not work very well.


I think the nex-gen system is going to reward Disney hotel guests and make it harder or even non-existant for people staying off property to get a FP. :headache::mad::headache:

Some rumors say a tiered system- less for value guests and more for deluxe guests. I don't think that would go over very well either. Maybe more for resort guests and a longer window for non resort guests to get another one. Not sure how that would work for AP holders. I have to just hope that Disney has a good plan, they usually do.


WTG! getting to the studios early. Good thing that van didn't hit ya. I have a feeling that would of set you back a few minutes.

You got a beaver with your score! :)

I hope you went and walked on to RNRC or ToT. ;)

Assuming no one was hurt, hitting the van would have made my antsy about the delay. :laughing:

A beaver sure enough... this time, :rolleyes:

A walk down Sunset Blvd. :rolleyes:

:scared1: Wow...that's for sure an argument in favor of buying a hybrid. My husband has a fairly long commute to work and gas is killing us!

I am enjoying it, once I get the gas thing under control. :laughing: Now that I kept track I see a bit of a trend and the bottom line the range is pretty much fiction and even though tI thought I was low, I really had plenty of gas.



I can't get over the line for Donald OR your bill at 'Ohana. Wow. Pricey.
Thanks for the extra transportation at SSR tips, too.

The crowds were there, so at certain times and cartain places they would become eveident. :rolleyes1



Your Photopass pictures came out great, too. You look super happy, which always seems to make people even more photogenic. :goodvibes


Thanks - I am happy and I was having a good time.



DHS looks like it got off to a great start.

I've never gone back after the window, personally. Always been a bit scared they'd call me out on on it, despite having heard on the Dis countless times that its really OK. :confused3 We'll see what the Nextgen system has in store, though.

DHS was nice that morning. As for the FP, I think and hope it will all work out and in the end be a real improvement. :thumbsup2

[Poolrat]

This morning I had the opportunity to run in a fundraising 5K for a cardiac rehab group.

It was a balmy 38 this mroning and since the course was in Charlotte it was hilly.

How did I do? Eh. Not as fast as Disney but Disney was flat. Couple that with the fact that I have not been running like I did prior to the Oct race and I was happy with it.

I blocked out the ages to protect the old. :lmao:

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0103-1.jpg


803rd... :laughing: I finished ahead of the 6 year old but the 9 year old smoked me.

I will say that there was no real 'start' line. I started my app when I crossed what I thought was the start line and stopped well after I crossed the finish and recorded 39:33.

I think the second column is the division finish so 30th in my age group and 431 among the women.

I am glad it is done and this morning probably was the warmest it will be all day. It is still overcast and getting windy. :cold:

[IheartDDuck]

I'm joining! Our trips overlapped a little bit. We arrived on 12/30 (super late though) and left on 1/7/12. Staying at the Poly.

I was completely shocked that they opened TSM early! I have never heard of that before. I mean, good for you though. :goodvibes

[Poolrat]

I'm joining! Our trips overlapped a little bit. We arrived on 12/30 (super late though) and left on 1/7/12. Staying at the Poly.

I was completely shocked that they opened TSM early! I have never heard of that before. I mean, good for you though. :goodvibes

:welcome: Did you spend NYE on the beach at the Poly?

I was a bit shocked too. I thought it was a bit unusual and yes it was good.

Did the crowds go down after the 3rd?

[IheartDDuck]

:welcome: Did you spend NYE on the beach at the Poly?

I was a bit shocked too. I thought it was a bit unusual and yes it was good.

Did the crowds go down after the 3rd?

No, we actually spent NYE at DHS. It was a lot of fun.

The crowds didn't really go down after the 3rd. I was expecting them too, but they didn't subside basically until right before we left. Like the last 2 days, but then it was the marathon. :laughing:

[Poolrat]

No, we actually spent NYE at DHS. It was a lot of fun.

The crowds didn't really go down after the 3rd. I was expecting them too, but they didn't subside basically until right before we left. Like the last 2 days, but then it was the marathon. :laughing:

I planned to make it there after the fireworks.


Somehow I was thinking the crowds would not not go away because of the marathon. I had thought about staying the week as well but since I bought into DVC I used my point there and Chris missed enought school and I was totally convinced I could send him home alone. Sicne we left from the Greenville airport instead of the Charlotte Airport sending him home early was not an option anymore.

[marvali]

Pretty good on the 5k, especially in the conditions. We had to go to a fundraiser of the HS soccer team.....varsity vs. alumni team. It was freezing with the wind blowing like it was.....probably in the 20s windchill.

Drew wants to know what the winning times were for the 5k.

[Poolrat]

Pretty good on the 5k, especially in the conditions. We had to go to a fundraiser of the HS soccer team.....varsity vs. alumni team. It was freezing with the wind blowing like it was.....probably in the 20s windchill.

Drew wants to know what the winning times were for the 5k.

Most of the first half was uphill and the we doubled back so the end was downhill.
My lat mile was actually faster than my first because of that darn hill. Luckily my neighborhood is hilly so I am somewhat used to it. Apparently I am an endurance athlete since I come close to even splitting any time I run. I am still afraid of not being able to make it home at the end. :lmao:


The winner was a 37 yr old man with a time of 16:03. The kicker was the 80 year old Woman with a time of 40:49 so I just edged her out. :lmao:


The wind is whipping up now, so glad it was not windy this morning.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0104.jpg

[MeMom]

I admire all of you runners. I have always hated running. Memories of running the stairs in junior college basketball - around the gym, up and around the bleachers multiple times - haunt me to this day. And that was when I was trim and fit that I still despised it. I love to walk, but a runner I am not. It fascinates me when people say they get a high or a thrill from running, because I cannot even imagine that! :laughing:

It's 22 degrees here this morning. Bring on some more warm Disney Christmas pictures! :cool1:

[Poolrat]

I admire all of you runners. I have always hated running. Memories of running the stairs in junior college basketball - around the gym, up and around the bleachers multiple times - haunt me to this day. And that was when I was trim and fit that I still despised it. I love to walk, but a runner I am not. It fascinates me when people say they get a high or a thrill from running, because I cannot even imagine that! :laughing:

It's 22 degrees here this morning. Bring on some more warm Disney Christmas pictures! :cool1:

I still hate running! :lmao: It is stems from the dryland running we did for swimming. I always had shin splints so it was painful and just not fun. I am a snail when it comes to running but I am doing it to hopefully shed some weight and I need a weight bearing exercise for my bones.

It is funny how we associate the activity with other things that make it a bad experience. I feel the same with long course ( 50 meters instead of 25 yrd) workouts. Always hated them but, but I learned it was because it was always cold when we did those workouts in the summer - 60 degree air and about the same water temp :cold: instead of the actual workout portion.

It wasn't until I got in an indoor pool with warmer water that I realized it was the process of swimming the longer distance that I hated, just being cold.

So now when I do run I keep Disney in my mind and it a better experience.
Even if I am sore today. :lmao:

It is 28 degress this morning. Same as yesterday but the sun is shining. I said yesterday I needed eitherh the sun to be shiing or 5 more degrees to be more comfortable and this mornig as I went out to get the paper, I actually said "this is could run in a whole lot better" :laughing:

But I am not going to. Not today.

[Poolrat]

My FP was for 9:25 and it was only 8:15. I wander back out by the hat and stop to browse the Passholder, VISA and now DVC pins.

Thanks to Marv I knew to look for a New Years pin. You will find out later that I should have shopped more. :sad2:

I ask and found the New years pin. This was one of 2 styles they had.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0096.jpg

This one was a spinner style

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0095.jpg

The other was one where the 1 in 2011 turned around to a 2.
Some of the others that came home with me.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0094.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0090.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0089.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0088.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0087.jpg

The CM talked me into getting a mystery pin for 2.95.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/IMAG0091.jpg

It say Limited edition on the back. Not too bad for a mystery.
Sale completed I was just missing Minnie.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2686.jpg

Apparently that little girls was missing her too.

Hollywood Donald and Daisy came out and the line was short.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2687.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2688.jpg

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Photopass/Photo0605FourBySix.jpg

With still some time to kill I head down Sunset Blvd.


I see where all the people are.:eek:

I start walking up to see the wait time or see the FP return time and then I realize…

The people I am passing are in line for ToT. :scared:

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2689.jpg

The end of the line.:eek::eek:

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2690.jpg

Looks like I am not getting on now. Wait time was 13 min when I started down the street but now it flips to 70 min.

http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee404/patdaly725/Disney%20NYE%2011/Day%202%20Dec%2030th/IMG_2691.jpg

As I walk back towards the hat I realize why.

The wonderful CM at the corner are telling people that there is a 13 min wait.:headache:

Why not try RnR? Well that had an 80 min wait. :headache::headache:

No worries, I had planned on being in the park for EMH NYE, surely I would get to ride then. :rolleyes1


Then I get a text.....

[IheartDDuck]

Love buying the passholder and DVC pins! I didn't actually look at them on my last trip. They were really cute!

The wait time issue seemed to be a problem throughout my trip. It would be posted as something really low and then by the time we'd get there, it would be insane.

[Poolrat]

Love buying the passholder and DVC pins! I didn't actually look at them on my last trip. They were really cute!


Now that I know they exisit I usually try to make sure I check.


The wait time issue seemed to be a problem throughout my trip. It would be posted as something really low and then by the time we'd get there, it would be insane.

I blame the apps. I think when a wait time is short, a rush comes from those checking wait times by phone.
I have encountered a short wait time and made it inside the attrraction quickly only to be greeted with all of humanity on the way out.

I have checked Mobile magic, started walking towards an attraction, refreshed the screen and the wait time triples as I arrive and notice the wait time on the baord outside the attraction changes before my eyes. :sad2:

[MEK]

Congrats on doing the run today. My treadmill is in my garage and its so cold I don't even want to go out there. Brrrrrh! :rotfl:

I'm not sure if I like the new DVC logo. I liked the old one better.

ToT going from 13 minutes to 80 minutes. Yikes!

[jecskc]

I love your pins. We have found that mornings at HS are a good time to get photos with characters. Wow on the 70 min wait on TOT. I have always been too chicken to ride it anyway.

[glennbo123]

Nice job with the run Pat. It was nice to see a picture of your friends from a previous trip.

Wow, I've never seen the ToT line back that far.

[eandesmom]

Frightening wait times but adorable pics with D&D and I love the pins!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Poolrat]

Congrats on doing the run today. My treadmill is in my garage and its so cold I don't even want to go out there. Brrrrrh! :rotfl:

I'm not sure if I like the new DVC logo. I liked the old one better.

ToT going from 13 minutes to 80 minutes. Yikes!

I had the gloves onthe first mile and a half. Shoved them in my pockets untilt he end. After the race as we were hanging around, I got cold again and put them back on. Today is much nicer and the sun is out but still mighty chilly. :lmao:

The new logo is more subtle. I am still used to the moutains and waves.

ToT wait time was :scared1:

I love your pins. We have found that mornings at HS are a good time to get photos with characters. Wow on the 70 min wait on TOT. I have always been too chicken to ride it anyway.

I was lucky to catch them as they were coming out. I love ToT and was a bit bummed that and surprised the crowd swellled that early. My plan was to get there after the fireworks on NYE.

[Poolrat]

Nice job with the run Pat. It was nice to see a picture of your friends from a previous trip.

Wow, I've never seen the ToT line back that far.

Thanks. I am trying to convince them to join me in July.

I have never seen that either. I can't say if the additional line was open. You know the one that leads by the natatorium. :laughing: But I really did walk by all those people actually wondering why they were standing there.

When I realized I had to double back to find the back of the line.

Frightening wait times but adorable pics with D&D and I love the pins!!!!!!!!!!!!

People were up early on that day. Sure didn't help that the CM at the corner was announcing a 13 minute wait. I almost walked up to them and told them it was now 70 min but I didn't. :)


I need to pick up a shadowbox for my 40th anniversay pins and my special AP and DVC pins.

[marvali]

Wow, love some of those pins.....especially the DVC pin with Minnie and Mickey, and the Osborne Family Festival of Lights! Wish I had some of those. Guess I will have to look for those on Ebay!

Now who in the world could be texting you at Disney at New Years??? :confused:

[Poolrat]

Wow, love some of those pins.....especially the DVC pin with Minnie and Mickey, and the Osborne Family Festival of Lights! Wish I had some of those. Guess I will have to look for those on Ebay!

Something was telling me to pick up both NYE pins but I thought I was being a little greedy. :confused3 I should have listened to the voice. ;)




Now who in the world could be texting you at Disney at New Years??? :confused:

At times my poor cell phone was dinging away. :lmao:


Hey don't you have a TR to start???? :rotfl2:

[marvali]

Something was telling me to pick up both NYE pins but I thought I was being a little greedy. :confused3 I should have listened to the voice. ;)





At times my poor cell phone was dinging away. :lmao:


Hey don't you have a TR to start???? :rotfl2:
It's coming.......just want to wait until nobody is expecting it so I can see who is paying attention.......... :rolleyes1 It is written, but I don't want anyone posting a reply before I can reserve that second post for chapter links....... :laughing:

[Poolrat]

It's coming.......just want to wait until nobody is expecting it so I can see who is paying attention.......... :rolleyes1 It is written, but I don't want anyone posting a reply before I can reserve that second post for chapter links....... :laughing:

:surfweb:

[marvali]

Sorry for the double post! Some more "fun with the DIS" going on.......

[BMC423]

Good job with the run! Amazing that you have the discipline to go running in that weather! Love your picture of the "crowds" at DHS :rotfl:



I blame the apps. I think when a wait time is short, a rush comes from those checking wait times by phone.
I have encountered a short wait time and made it inside the attrraction quickly only to be greeted with all of humanity on the way out.


I agree they also have those apps were the users can update the wait time at they wait, they probably have a lag on the update so you get a bunch of people migrating to an attraction because the wait times have yet to update. :confused3

[Poolrat]

Sorry for the double post! Some more "fun with the DIS" going on.......

Apparently so. I shouldn't say but.... let me just say I have not had quite the trouble you have. ;)

Good job with the run! Amazing that you have the discipline to go running in that weather! Love your picture of the "crowds" at DHS :rotfl:

I would have done much better if I really had discipline. Every morning I have been opting for more warmsleepy time under the covers instead of getting up and going out for a run. :laughing:




I agree they also have those apps were the users can update the wait time at they wait, they probably have a lag on the update so you get a bunch of people migrating to an attraction because the wait times have yet to update. :confused3

The crowds even swell before Disney can update. :laughing: I have been using Mobile magic from Disney so their wait times are tied into the posted wait times. Sometimes if I am close enough and quick enough I get there first and by the time I get off the ride I see a crazy line.

This time luck was not on my side. I should have gone straight there but I thought I would be back NYE. :rolleyes:

[vamassey1]

Love the pins and the picture with the ducks. They looks so bright and cheery.

Sorry about the bad news on Sunset.:scared1: Tot is my most favorite ride ever. Hope you made it back there at another time.

Congrats on your race! I admire anyone who can run :worship:. I can walk and sometimes work up to a jog, but it doesn't last for long.

Keep up the good work.

[Poolrat]

Love the pins and the picture with the ducks. They looks so bright and cheery.

Sorry about the bad news on Sunset.:scared1: Tot is my most favorite ride ever. Hope you made it back there at another time.

Congrats on your race! I admire anyone who can run :worship:. I can walk and sometimes work up to a jog, but it doesn't last for long.

Keep up the good work.

ToT is one of my favorites too! I was a bit bummed the line was so long.


I really only started running in Jan 2011. If I can do it any one can. Bad knees bad hips and a general dislike for running but I still do it. :laughing:

I started by walking and working up to a jog. I can now run 5 miles. It ain't pretty or fast but I can do it.

[marvali]

Apparently so. I shouldn't say but.... let me just say I have not had quite the trouble you have. ;)Sometimes two straight posts isn't a bad thing........ ;)

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm impressed at your running! I walk fast and that's it...

So you got a text.

Was it me?

[Poolrat]

Sometimes two straight posts isn't a bad thing........ ;)


Sometimes 2 separated by 5 mins and 1 posts just highlights how slow th DIS can be. :)

I'm impressed at your running! I walk fast and that's it...

So you got a text.

Was it me?

Sometimes I run only as fast as I walk. :lmao: I bet there are times I actually walk faster than I run...

Not that time. I think you were busy packing up and getting people to the airport that morning. :upsidedow

[jeremysdisneymom]

Getting all caught up Pat! Wow, I can't believe those wait times at DHS and Epcot. Not sure I could handle all those crowds. Oh, and the wait for the ride in Mexico.....ridiculous!

Oh, how neat that you got to eat dinner with all the dis friends at O'hana's. I bet it was lots of fun. Too funny about the bill!

I would have snagged the extra towels and stuff outside the room as well. That is the only thing I don't like about DVC.

Love your pictures of DHS early in the AM before the crowds came. I need to see if we have any of those early times for Spring Break.

[Captain_Oblivious]

I start walking up to see the wait time or see the FP return time and then I realize…

The people I am passing are in line for ToT. :scared:

Nice job on the run, Pat!

[marvali]

Nice job on the run, Pat!
She has gotten faster, especially at some things! :rolleyes1 Of course, if she was competing against some in THIS crowd, she would be blowing everyone away........ :lmao:

[Captain_Oblivious]

I'm still amazed at the ToT line. :eek: Imagine what it would be like if the ride was actually fun! :rotfl2:

[Wicket's Mom]

Those wait times were crazy! That's why we go the day or so after Labor Day. When are boys were young we always had to go during Spring Break or in the summer. I don't want to deal with those sorts of crowds ever again!:thumbsup2

[MeMom]

I like all the pins. :thumbsup2

Daisy and Donald are stylin' in their Hollywood attire. ::yes::

I am glad we were in Hollywood when we were (no lines) and not when you were. ;)

[Poolrat]

Getting all caught up Pat! Wow, I can't believe those wait times at DHS and Epcot. Not sure I could handle all those crowds. Oh, and the wait for the ride in Mexico.....ridiculous!

In 2009 I don't think it was nearly as crowded. Maybe I just planned better. :confused3 The wait times were like that in 2009 but I think I maneuvered better than I did this trip.

I have never seen the ride in Mexico like that EVER. :eek:


Oh, how neat that you got to eat dinner with all the dis friends at O'hana's. I bet it was lots of fun. Too funny about the bill!

It was a fun night and I look forward to doing it again. :cool1:


I would have snagged the extra towels and stuff outside the room as well. That is the only thing I don't like about DVC.

I considered it to be a little 'welcome' to DVC gift. :lmao:

Hey if extra towels and things are near my door and they are all clean and folded, I will aquire them. :laughing:


Love your pictures of DHS early in the AM before the crowds came. I need to see if we have any of those early times for Spring Break.

Sometimes just getting an hour jump is all your need to knowck some of the popular things out of the way.

Nice job on the run, Pat!

Thanks it was fun. I just wish it was a bit warmer, or the sun was out. either one would have been perfect. Can't say I would have been faster.... but I would have been more comfortable.

She has gotten faster, especially at some things! :rolleyes1 Of course, if she was competing against some in THIS crowd, she would be blowing everyone away........ :lmao:

It is my cat like reflexes. :lmao:

I'm still amazed at the ToT line. :eek: Imagine what it would be like if the ride was actually fun! :rotfl2:

:lmao::lmao: It is fun, silly boy. I completely understand the lack of fun falling is but I really enjoy ToT. :)

[Poolrat]

Those wait times were crazy! That's why we go the day or so after Labor Day. When are boys were young we always had to go during Spring Break or in the summer. I don't want to deal with those sorts of crowds ever again!:thumbsup2

The week after Labor Day is when I saw a 10 min Soarin' wait time. One of the reasons I was originally going to stay the first week in Jan to hopefully see some low crowds but I ended up leaving on the 3rd.

I like all the pins. :thumbsup2
I see myself coming home with more and more pins. I need to get a shadow box to display them.


Daisy and Donald are stylin' in their Hollywood attire. ::yes::

They were.


I am glad we were in Hollywood when we were (no lines) and not when you were. ;)

The crowds came a little after I got there but not much. I guess most of the early birds at least wait until dawn to go the park. :laughing:

[blessedmom4]

OKay, I really need to read your TR since you are a Charlottean! I will be back! :flower3:



http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1949/1949626jkkzemxarh.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)

[Kgroo]

Pat, Great updates as always. Love the pics of the pins. I love your idea about putting them in a shadow box. I have just recently started getting interested in them. I like using them for my board at work. Makes me happy when I look up to reference something. Can't believe that line at ToT :scared1: We are so spoiled going in Sept/Oct with the crowds. That will all have to change in a few years when Chloe goes to school.