Kids, Disney, Action! Extreme Trip (Report). Three-Peat and Done 7/11
- Thread starter GeorgiaAristocat
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GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
Thanks everyone ~
I am, once again, feeling as if I have abandoned my baby here. BUT, with the holidays and the inevitably sick children, I am AGAIN terribly behind and work.
Strangely, I feel the need to actually catch up with that before going on with this never-ending saga.
So.
I will be back. Soon(ish).
Happy New Year everyone!
I am, once again, feeling as if I have abandoned my baby here. BUT, with the holidays and the inevitably sick children, I am AGAIN terribly behind and work.
Strangely, I feel the need to actually catch up with that before going on with this never-ending saga.
So.
I will be back. Soon(ish).
Happy New Year everyone!
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
Well, as previously stated, the late night before made me believe that making it to MGM for park opening was unlikely. But I still wanted to try. I guess that answers the question posed in the title of this chapter.
There were several factors at play:
1. We were all tired and cranky from the fiasco of the night before.
2. Half of the participants were, on top of that, having to adjust to a 3 hour time change.
3. Boost. Who doesn't show up ANYWHERE on time. Unless food is involved.
Well. Food was NOT involved in our (okay MY) early morning appointment at MGM. What was involved was CROWD AVOIDANCE.
I was up and at ‘em bright and early. That is, sometime before 6:30 a.m. Me and the Shrimp, as usual. I made both coffees (regular for Boost, decaf for me, Grammy could have whichever she wished.) I made chocolate milk for the Shrimp. Actually, I had probably combat loaded a cup the night before. That's what I usually do.
That patio came in really handy all week. Whoever got up early went out there and soaked in the atmosphere. I was up several times that week before the ducks.
In any case, the morning routine was shot. Everyone but NeatKid was up and moving in plenty of time. But. Never underestimate the amount of time that a teenager can spend sleeping. I had forgotten. We finally shook her awake and asked her if she wanted to come with us or meet us there.
She experienced a moment of separation anxiety, I think, and decided to get herself moving.
I had clothes picked out for the kids (those handy ziploc bags!), but the Princess wanted to be a Princess. I don't remember what she picked at first, but I talked her into Belle, because of the live stage show there. I thought it was most appropriate.
And.
It was properly hemmed.
So, we got her dressed, and I pulled her hair up:
Apparently the OLDER princess, aka NeatKid, decided to get dressed up, too. Sundress and stacked flipflops.
I decided that it would be terribly unkind to take a picture of your own relative's shows and send them to badshoe. So I didn't. (Or did I?) But I was sorely tempted.
We finally loaded up and made it to the front gates around 9:45. Not too bad, all things considered.
Coming in the gates, either Grammy or NeatKid had a problem with their ticket. I don't remember which one. Then I commandeered their tickets. For to get fastpasses.
We headed directly for Playhouse Disney. And just missed the entrance to the next show. Insead, we encountered (gasp!) A LINE. I ignored my previously read tips from a certain tourguide, and didn't just go to see the Little Mermaid and forget the possibility of sitting right up front for Playhouse Disney. That was mistake #1. I got fastpasses, though. That was mistake #2.
We waited in the HOT line. But, remember, the Princess is DRESSED. So she got a LOT of comments. Which she enjoyed. A lot. And then we came across some cast members and the kids got to trade pins. Which they enjoyed.
We made it into the show, NoFear had a really good time. The Shrimp sat in my lap and quivered. Because it got dark. Here he is before the lights went down:
After leaving the Playhouse, we headed across the courtyard to Mermaid, and, instead of walking right in (with the rest of the people), we went to the Fastpass entrance. And were stopped. Since our Fastpasses had expired. (Oh yeah, THAT'S why I wasn't supposed to do that. Yes, indeed, this is one of the FEW places that they DON'T just take expired fastpasses.) Instead of just directing us into the MOVING LINE, we were shunted to the side to get us into "the next show."
Instead of taking the initiative and just going with the line, we waited. That was mistake #3 and the strikeout.
We DID NOT make it into the next show, but were let first into the holding room for the show AFTER that. It was (timewise) a costly mistake.
I was chagrined.
The Shrimp was quite frightened in the show. He sat in my lap and quivered.
Afterwards, it was already time for lunch. Grammy let NoFear pick out any princess hat she wanted. I gave the group directions to the ABC commissary. I went to get fastpasses for RNR, just in case, and made it to the commissary before them.
I've got to say, while the pickings at MGM for good counter service are reputedly slim, I quite enjoyed my meal here. I got the Asian noodle thing. It was yummy. Even NoFear enjoyed it:
Lunch took a while, too. Especially once you factored in the bathroom shuffle and the smoking pit stop.
I sort of figured out at this point that EVERYTHING was going to take a while on this trip. And also figured out that I needed to let me stress go. And just enjoy it.
I would need to remind myself of this many times throughout the trip. Because it is really hard to let go of Commando instincts. Especially when they are so intrinsic in my personality.
Next Episode: Ohhh, that Pixie Dust will make you dizzy! (Page 18, Post 265)
There were several factors at play:
1. We were all tired and cranky from the fiasco of the night before.
2. Half of the participants were, on top of that, having to adjust to a 3 hour time change.
3. Boost. Who doesn't show up ANYWHERE on time. Unless food is involved.
Well. Food was NOT involved in our (okay MY) early morning appointment at MGM. What was involved was CROWD AVOIDANCE.
I was up and at ‘em bright and early. That is, sometime before 6:30 a.m. Me and the Shrimp, as usual. I made both coffees (regular for Boost, decaf for me, Grammy could have whichever she wished.) I made chocolate milk for the Shrimp. Actually, I had probably combat loaded a cup the night before. That's what I usually do.
That patio came in really handy all week. Whoever got up early went out there and soaked in the atmosphere. I was up several times that week before the ducks.
In any case, the morning routine was shot. Everyone but NeatKid was up and moving in plenty of time. But. Never underestimate the amount of time that a teenager can spend sleeping. I had forgotten. We finally shook her awake and asked her if she wanted to come with us or meet us there.
She experienced a moment of separation anxiety, I think, and decided to get herself moving.
I had clothes picked out for the kids (those handy ziploc bags!), but the Princess wanted to be a Princess. I don't remember what she picked at first, but I talked her into Belle, because of the live stage show there. I thought it was most appropriate.
And.
It was properly hemmed.
So, we got her dressed, and I pulled her hair up:
Apparently the OLDER princess, aka NeatKid, decided to get dressed up, too. Sundress and stacked flipflops.
I decided that it would be terribly unkind to take a picture of your own relative's shows and send them to badshoe. So I didn't. (Or did I?) But I was sorely tempted.
We finally loaded up and made it to the front gates around 9:45. Not too bad, all things considered.
Coming in the gates, either Grammy or NeatKid had a problem with their ticket. I don't remember which one. Then I commandeered their tickets. For to get fastpasses.
We headed directly for Playhouse Disney. And just missed the entrance to the next show. Insead, we encountered (gasp!) A LINE. I ignored my previously read tips from a certain tourguide, and didn't just go to see the Little Mermaid and forget the possibility of sitting right up front for Playhouse Disney. That was mistake #1. I got fastpasses, though. That was mistake #2.
We waited in the HOT line. But, remember, the Princess is DRESSED. So she got a LOT of comments. Which she enjoyed. A lot. And then we came across some cast members and the kids got to trade pins. Which they enjoyed.
We made it into the show, NoFear had a really good time. The Shrimp sat in my lap and quivered. Because it got dark. Here he is before the lights went down:
After leaving the Playhouse, we headed across the courtyard to Mermaid, and, instead of walking right in (with the rest of the people), we went to the Fastpass entrance. And were stopped. Since our Fastpasses had expired. (Oh yeah, THAT'S why I wasn't supposed to do that. Yes, indeed, this is one of the FEW places that they DON'T just take expired fastpasses.) Instead of just directing us into the MOVING LINE, we were shunted to the side to get us into "the next show."
Instead of taking the initiative and just going with the line, we waited. That was mistake #3 and the strikeout.
We DID NOT make it into the next show, but were let first into the holding room for the show AFTER that. It was (timewise) a costly mistake.
I was chagrined.
The Shrimp was quite frightened in the show. He sat in my lap and quivered.
Afterwards, it was already time for lunch. Grammy let NoFear pick out any princess hat she wanted. I gave the group directions to the ABC commissary. I went to get fastpasses for RNR, just in case, and made it to the commissary before them.
I've got to say, while the pickings at MGM for good counter service are reputedly slim, I quite enjoyed my meal here. I got the Asian noodle thing. It was yummy. Even NoFear enjoyed it:
Lunch took a while, too. Especially once you factored in the bathroom shuffle and the smoking pit stop.
I sort of figured out at this point that EVERYTHING was going to take a while on this trip. And also figured out that I needed to let me stress go. And just enjoy it.
I would need to remind myself of this many times throughout the trip. Because it is really hard to let go of Commando instincts. Especially when they are so intrinsic in my personality.
Next Episode: Ohhh, that Pixie Dust will make you dizzy! (Page 18, Post 265)
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
During lunch, given the heat of the day, I thought I had NoFear convinced that she should change out of her dress into shorts. She was all for it, until she heard that we were going to see Belle at the Beauty and the Beast show. She thought we were going to get a personal interview, a la all the other princesses she had seen up to this point. I couldn't make her understand the difference between the personal meetings and seeing a show. She refused to change. I wasn't going to make it into a battle.
After finishing lunch around 12:30, I knew that I wanted to see the 2:00 showing of Beauty. We had a LITTLE bit of time to kill. So we headed to Muppetvision. I grabbed Fastpasses to Star Tours on the way. Or tried to. Had problems (like at the entrance that morning.) It was obvious to me that at least one of the tickets had been demagnitized. A very nice attendant at Star Tours gave me a Fastpass Pass that was only good for that day to get fastpasses for the ticket that didn't work. Which was wonderful. Crisis (and need to go to the front of the park) averted.
We headed on. And somewhere in this mix, we saw JoJo and Goliath, and then the Little Einsteins.
This was some really good interaction, especially because of the princess dress. Everyone wanted to dance with NoFear - and make her twirl.
A hug for Goliath:
NoFear is all about giving hugs to the characters, I try to "help" by making comments to get even more interaction. At some point while she was with JoJo I said something about Goliath hiding most of the time, so he did! This is NoFear pointing out that Goliath is hiding behind the plant.
They were a lot of fun!
We then moved on to the Little Einsteins.
During all of this the Shrimp was calling out and waving, but otherwise quivering with fear.
We walked through the Streets of America and eventually made it to Al's Toy Barn and ran into Woody and the Green Army men. I like how the Green Army men circulate. And they need to figure out how to make it so you're not standing in the frickin' (NOF) sun to see Woody. Just sayin.
This is the Shrimp after he noticed that the Green Army Man was right behind him:
This is one of my favorites - NoFear had just blown Woody a kiss - he was clasping the kiss to his breast and lamenting the fact that his princess was walking away.
We eventually left, here is a picture of NeatKid and Grammy walking away. And yes, the Green Army man was watching them (well, the niece) in a rather creepy way. She's only 14 after all!
After that, we made it into the Muppets, but missed the preshow.
Now, the muppets are some of my all-time favorites. I was more of the "Muppet Show" generation than the "Wide World of Disney." Although I remember Sunday nights with Disney, I was young. Muppets, however, are strong memories.
Our family ALWAYS watched the Muppet Show. As it turns out, that was probably Grammy's influence over the television station. She CACKLED the whole way through the show, and declared it just as good as when it was on TV.
We walked through the shop afterwards, and NeatKid had reached a critical point in having spent half a day on vacation and not yet buying ANYTHING. She saw something in a window display that she wanted, and a search was on. Of course, the muppet item displayed in the window display at the muppet shop was not actually carried by that shop. Hmmpf.
We headed on to Beauty and the Beast. When we got to the entrance, I sent the rest of them inside with instructions to find a seat, and I went to park the stroller and get some frozen lemonades.
Have I mentioned yet that it was REALLY HOT?
As it turns out, I had forgotten to mention to my party to get seats towards the FRONT. I found them in the last 5 rows. You know, where the sun threatens to shine on you. I got four frozen lemonades. They were gratefully received.
We sat and waited for the show to begin. And ate. The Shrimp liked the show, and no quivering was seen. NoFear was fascinated. Grammy took her tennis shoes off.
Now, class, what do we know about taking our shoes off when it's hot and you've been walking all day? (Bonus points to those of you asking why she wasn't just wearing Crocs.)
Needless to say, this caused a slight delay at the end of the show. Because, while the ENTIRE THEATER was streaming by, we couldn't even take advantage of the fact that we should have been one of the FIRST groups out of there, and snagging prime real estate for the parade. We were putting shoes back on.
We missed out on the prime real estate for the parade, but ended up close. Of course, that's like going for a beach vacation and ending up in a 3rd row house. You're really CLOSE to the good spots, but you have to make some effort to get there, and while you can sort of see the ocean, you mostly can't.
Well, our almost prime real estate was, therefore, in a sunny spot instead of a shady one. But there was some shade close behind. So I told Boost, Grammy and NeatKid to take the kids to the shady area and I would hold our spots at the sunny area (by rolling the double stroller up to the line and then sitting beside it) until parade time. Boost tried to be chivalrous. I shooed him away.
Let me tell you, saving that tapeside seat was totally worth it.
This is where the magic happened for us this day.
Because the princess was STILL in her dress.
And it was duly noted. By almost EVERYONE that passed.
And I have the WHOLE THING on video.
I have Snow White calling out that she loved her dress.
I have Stitch pointed directly at her and then giving her a thumb's up.
I have Burt (and Poppins) waving directly at her.
I could go on and on.
EVERY face character, and a lot of big heads made sure that we knew that they were directing personal attention at us, and then said or did something just for her.
She felt so very special. It was everything I could have dreamed for from a parade. It still brings tears to my eyes. We watch the video fairly often.
After the parade, we still had a little time before our early supper at 50s Prime Time. We went to ride Star Tours (and do the baby swap.) I like the baby swap a lot better here than most places, because you get to stay together through the whole line, and there is not a lot of time wasted walking back and forth to the entrance/exit. I wish Soarin' would do it this way. There's room in the holding bay for someone to stand there through one flight, then pass the baby and wait on the other side. Much more efficient.
Anyway, we survived our journey into space and then took the obligatory Light Speeder pictures.
We still had time afterwards to go catch a glimpse of the cars. (Thank goodness that our pictures have numbers, or I would never have remembered the proper order of things.) As has been stated by others, it was, in general, a massive onslaught to the cars, there is no organization, and it is hard to get close to take any pics, so we just got them as they rolled by:
My favorite picture of "Likening ah-queen" KaChow!
And met some Monsters:
And, while ignoring my rear end, please notice that this MIGHT be where NoFear learned how to hug those characters!
At that point it was time to head to the 50s for some supper. MMMM baby!
Next Episode: Chugga Chugga Choo Choo! (Page 18, Post 266)
After finishing lunch around 12:30, I knew that I wanted to see the 2:00 showing of Beauty. We had a LITTLE bit of time to kill. So we headed to Muppetvision. I grabbed Fastpasses to Star Tours on the way. Or tried to. Had problems (like at the entrance that morning.) It was obvious to me that at least one of the tickets had been demagnitized. A very nice attendant at Star Tours gave me a Fastpass Pass that was only good for that day to get fastpasses for the ticket that didn't work. Which was wonderful. Crisis (and need to go to the front of the park) averted.
We headed on. And somewhere in this mix, we saw JoJo and Goliath, and then the Little Einsteins.
This was some really good interaction, especially because of the princess dress. Everyone wanted to dance with NoFear - and make her twirl.
A hug for Goliath:
NoFear is all about giving hugs to the characters, I try to "help" by making comments to get even more interaction. At some point while she was with JoJo I said something about Goliath hiding most of the time, so he did! This is NoFear pointing out that Goliath is hiding behind the plant.
They were a lot of fun!
We then moved on to the Little Einsteins.
During all of this the Shrimp was calling out and waving, but otherwise quivering with fear.
We walked through the Streets of America and eventually made it to Al's Toy Barn and ran into Woody and the Green Army men. I like how the Green Army men circulate. And they need to figure out how to make it so you're not standing in the frickin' (NOF) sun to see Woody. Just sayin.
This is the Shrimp after he noticed that the Green Army Man was right behind him:
This is one of my favorites - NoFear had just blown Woody a kiss - he was clasping the kiss to his breast and lamenting the fact that his princess was walking away.
We eventually left, here is a picture of NeatKid and Grammy walking away. And yes, the Green Army man was watching them (well, the niece) in a rather creepy way. She's only 14 after all!
After that, we made it into the Muppets, but missed the preshow.
Now, the muppets are some of my all-time favorites. I was more of the "Muppet Show" generation than the "Wide World of Disney." Although I remember Sunday nights with Disney, I was young. Muppets, however, are strong memories.
Our family ALWAYS watched the Muppet Show. As it turns out, that was probably Grammy's influence over the television station. She CACKLED the whole way through the show, and declared it just as good as when it was on TV.
We walked through the shop afterwards, and NeatKid had reached a critical point in having spent half a day on vacation and not yet buying ANYTHING. She saw something in a window display that she wanted, and a search was on. Of course, the muppet item displayed in the window display at the muppet shop was not actually carried by that shop. Hmmpf.
We headed on to Beauty and the Beast. When we got to the entrance, I sent the rest of them inside with instructions to find a seat, and I went to park the stroller and get some frozen lemonades.
Have I mentioned yet that it was REALLY HOT?
As it turns out, I had forgotten to mention to my party to get seats towards the FRONT. I found them in the last 5 rows. You know, where the sun threatens to shine on you. I got four frozen lemonades. They were gratefully received.
We sat and waited for the show to begin. And ate. The Shrimp liked the show, and no quivering was seen. NoFear was fascinated. Grammy took her tennis shoes off.
Now, class, what do we know about taking our shoes off when it's hot and you've been walking all day? (Bonus points to those of you asking why she wasn't just wearing Crocs.)
Needless to say, this caused a slight delay at the end of the show. Because, while the ENTIRE THEATER was streaming by, we couldn't even take advantage of the fact that we should have been one of the FIRST groups out of there, and snagging prime real estate for the parade. We were putting shoes back on.
We missed out on the prime real estate for the parade, but ended up close. Of course, that's like going for a beach vacation and ending up in a 3rd row house. You're really CLOSE to the good spots, but you have to make some effort to get there, and while you can sort of see the ocean, you mostly can't.
Well, our almost prime real estate was, therefore, in a sunny spot instead of a shady one. But there was some shade close behind. So I told Boost, Grammy and NeatKid to take the kids to the shady area and I would hold our spots at the sunny area (by rolling the double stroller up to the line and then sitting beside it) until parade time. Boost tried to be chivalrous. I shooed him away.
Let me tell you, saving that tapeside seat was totally worth it.
This is where the magic happened for us this day.
Because the princess was STILL in her dress.
And it was duly noted. By almost EVERYONE that passed.
And I have the WHOLE THING on video.
I have Snow White calling out that she loved her dress.
I have Stitch pointed directly at her and then giving her a thumb's up.
I have Burt (and Poppins) waving directly at her.
I could go on and on.
EVERY face character, and a lot of big heads made sure that we knew that they were directing personal attention at us, and then said or did something just for her.
She felt so very special. It was everything I could have dreamed for from a parade. It still brings tears to my eyes. We watch the video fairly often.
After the parade, we still had a little time before our early supper at 50s Prime Time. We went to ride Star Tours (and do the baby swap.) I like the baby swap a lot better here than most places, because you get to stay together through the whole line, and there is not a lot of time wasted walking back and forth to the entrance/exit. I wish Soarin' would do it this way. There's room in the holding bay for someone to stand there through one flight, then pass the baby and wait on the other side. Much more efficient.
Anyway, we survived our journey into space and then took the obligatory Light Speeder pictures.
We still had time afterwards to go catch a glimpse of the cars. (Thank goodness that our pictures have numbers, or I would never have remembered the proper order of things.) As has been stated by others, it was, in general, a massive onslaught to the cars, there is no organization, and it is hard to get close to take any pics, so we just got them as they rolled by:
My favorite picture of "Likening ah-queen" KaChow!
And met some Monsters:
And, while ignoring my rear end, please notice that this MIGHT be where NoFear learned how to hug those characters!
At that point it was time to head to the 50s for some supper. MMMM baby!
Next Episode: Chugga Chugga Choo Choo! (Page 18, Post 266)
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
We had a 4:35 p.m. reservation at the Prime Time.
Call it lunner. Or dunch. Whatever.
Now, up to this point we had not yet done the following that I wanted to do: RNR or TOT (me and someone adventurous. Probably just me. Alone.) the Great Movie Ride (not the Shrimp) just to see Grammy cackle at the alien. Indy show, because my Mom LOVES Indy. And Walt Disney: One Man's Dream and the drawing studio afterward. And taking pictures in front of the Narnia backdrop. Yup. That's pretty much it. Okay, so it's a lot.
I didn't think we would be staying for Fantasmic anyway (after the previous evening), so thought we could squeeze in the GMR and One Man's Dream and the Narnia pictures before we left after supper. Everything else would just not get done.
Plans ALWAYS change.
After leaving the Cars crush behind, we wandered slowly to PrimeTime. About 3 doors down is a shop that NeatKid wanted to look in, so we left her and Grammy behind, and went to check in. We were a few minutes early for our 4:35 reservation.
But, when we told them we were there, we were asked if we were REALLY all there. I said that two of us were in the neighboring shop. I was told to fetch the two of us to be seated. So I did.
But when we got back, Boost and the kids had disappeared. INTO THIN AIR. And, when you're at Disney, you can't just walk through the restaurant and scan for people. We eventually met up. Finally. After some stressful moments. I think I even asked a server who said that they had NOT been seated.
Liar.
Okay, that might be a little harsh. In any case, we started perusing the menu. I knew what I wanted. Fried cheese.
Is there anything better than fried cheese?
It is soooooo good.
But, then, two other people decided they wanted fried cheese, including Boost.
And I just can't stand for EVERYONE to order the same appetizer.
So I didn't. I ordered shrimp instead.
How many mistakes am I up to on this day? It was a lot. Too many.
Especially the one about the fried cheese.
Because, as it turns out, he wouldn't share.
NeatKid also ordered cheese, but she was seated a little bit far away from me.
At some point just after the cheese, the time change, the fact that she hadn't had enough water that day, and the stress of being a teenager caught up to NeatKid and she started feeling ill.
Not just headachey ill either. Really ill. Icky ill.
And she stopped eating. (After she had finished her cheese, tfi. I couldn't even steal it from her.)
She decided to go outside to get some air. A few minutes later she came back to report that she had, well, zzubed in the flower bed outside.
Poor thing. (I then wondered if I should tell a CM so that they could clean it up. I was a mass of anxiety about the right thing to do.)
I should mention Aunt Jennifer. Who served us. Who was perfectly playful at all the right times. I asked if Dad caught the shrimp over at Epcot. She would NOT give me a straight answer. (Dad didn't, tfi, Epcot doesn't actually produce enough shrimp to supply all the restaurants with appetizers. If I was not such an idiot I would have thought about that fact.)
Anyway. Aunt Jennifer. She brought our entrees. She threatened us about eating veggies or not getting dessert. Yada yada. Grammy just didn't understand the heights of humiliation that they are willing to heap on people.
Because when she stopped back and Grammy still had lots of stuff on her plate, Aunt Jennifer decided to get her to eat more. But the way she did it . . .
After NeatKid told Aunt Jen that she had thrown up outside (and the look of horror that crossed her face, immediately followed by the "Did anyone see you?" comment, which I thought was priceless), she moved on to Grammy's still rather full plate. We had an empty chair, so Aunt Jen sat herself down. I'm sure that Grammy thought she was going to be expressing some sympathy for NeatKid. Instead, Aunt Jen asked Grammy "Are you done with this?" indicating her plate.
Now, Grammy used to wait tables (many many many moons ago), and thought Aunt Jen was going to be clearing.
Grammy answered "yes."
"Ohhh-kay" says Auntie Jen. And then picks up Grammy's fork and starts dishing up a bite. She starts chanting "Chugga chugga, choooo, chooo!!!" and starts feeding Grammy a couple of bites.
Grammy, being the obedient child that she has always been, opened her mouth, while blushing.
My 60 year old mother can still blush.
Bright red.
It was sooooooooo funny.
I was cackling.
Because I had known what was coming. And I had already hid my meatloaf (about which I had received a previous warning), under my mashed potatoes.
And no one ratted me out.
And Aunt Jennifer didn't notice.
Ha!
(Oh, and, at some point, NoFear had fallen asleep at the table, having played hard and not getting a nap that day.)
Anyway. The train was the highlight of the dinner. Grammy still talks about the humiliation.
But, with NeatKid and her illin' we knew that we were leaving directly after supper. So I looked around the room at my "cousins" and picked a likely set. I then went over to them and gave them my fastpasses for RNR, and explained that even though they were expired, that the attendants would still take them.
We jetted out of there. With NoFear's pizza (she fell asleep before it got to the table) and NeatKid's entree and dessert packed up. So that it could linger in the fridge at the villa for the rest of the week.
We stopped by the front to get the ticket thing taken care of. Grammy was told that she needed to keep her ticket AWAY from the room key and cell phones so that she wouldn't de-magnitize again. (Actually, they reissued both of their tickets just to be on the safe side.) The wonderful CM there noticed our matching "Incredibles" shirts, and gave us all Grand Gathering buttons with the Incredibles on them. My kids still fish them out and wear them sometimes.
We went back "home." The Shrimp probably fell asleep in the car. I know that when we got back I ended up taking NoFear to the pool to master the waterslide. She won the Gold Medal in the Waterslide event for the JUNIOR Olympics. Just ask Zzub. Everyone else stayed behind and rested. We returned eventually and EVERYONE was settling down for the night by 8 p.m.
(Unfortunately, NeatKid was sick ALL NIGHT, and threw up two more times.)
Will the Shirt Make all the Difference? Page 19 Post 278
Call it lunner. Or dunch. Whatever.
Now, up to this point we had not yet done the following that I wanted to do: RNR or TOT (me and someone adventurous. Probably just me. Alone.) the Great Movie Ride (not the Shrimp) just to see Grammy cackle at the alien. Indy show, because my Mom LOVES Indy. And Walt Disney: One Man's Dream and the drawing studio afterward. And taking pictures in front of the Narnia backdrop. Yup. That's pretty much it. Okay, so it's a lot.
I didn't think we would be staying for Fantasmic anyway (after the previous evening), so thought we could squeeze in the GMR and One Man's Dream and the Narnia pictures before we left after supper. Everything else would just not get done.
Plans ALWAYS change.
After leaving the Cars crush behind, we wandered slowly to PrimeTime. About 3 doors down is a shop that NeatKid wanted to look in, so we left her and Grammy behind, and went to check in. We were a few minutes early for our 4:35 reservation.
But, when we told them we were there, we were asked if we were REALLY all there. I said that two of us were in the neighboring shop. I was told to fetch the two of us to be seated. So I did.
But when we got back, Boost and the kids had disappeared. INTO THIN AIR. And, when you're at Disney, you can't just walk through the restaurant and scan for people. We eventually met up. Finally. After some stressful moments. I think I even asked a server who said that they had NOT been seated.
Liar.
Okay, that might be a little harsh. In any case, we started perusing the menu. I knew what I wanted. Fried cheese.
Is there anything better than fried cheese?
It is soooooo good.
But, then, two other people decided they wanted fried cheese, including Boost.
And I just can't stand for EVERYONE to order the same appetizer.
So I didn't. I ordered shrimp instead.
How many mistakes am I up to on this day? It was a lot. Too many.
Especially the one about the fried cheese.
Because, as it turns out, he wouldn't share.
NeatKid also ordered cheese, but she was seated a little bit far away from me.
At some point just after the cheese, the time change, the fact that she hadn't had enough water that day, and the stress of being a teenager caught up to NeatKid and she started feeling ill.
Not just headachey ill either. Really ill. Icky ill.
And she stopped eating. (After she had finished her cheese, tfi. I couldn't even steal it from her.)
She decided to go outside to get some air. A few minutes later she came back to report that she had, well, zzubed in the flower bed outside.
Poor thing. (I then wondered if I should tell a CM so that they could clean it up. I was a mass of anxiety about the right thing to do.)
I should mention Aunt Jennifer. Who served us. Who was perfectly playful at all the right times. I asked if Dad caught the shrimp over at Epcot. She would NOT give me a straight answer. (Dad didn't, tfi, Epcot doesn't actually produce enough shrimp to supply all the restaurants with appetizers. If I was not such an idiot I would have thought about that fact.)
Anyway. Aunt Jennifer. She brought our entrees. She threatened us about eating veggies or not getting dessert. Yada yada. Grammy just didn't understand the heights of humiliation that they are willing to heap on people.
Because when she stopped back and Grammy still had lots of stuff on her plate, Aunt Jennifer decided to get her to eat more. But the way she did it . . .
After NeatKid told Aunt Jen that she had thrown up outside (and the look of horror that crossed her face, immediately followed by the "Did anyone see you?" comment, which I thought was priceless), she moved on to Grammy's still rather full plate. We had an empty chair, so Aunt Jen sat herself down. I'm sure that Grammy thought she was going to be expressing some sympathy for NeatKid. Instead, Aunt Jen asked Grammy "Are you done with this?" indicating her plate.
Now, Grammy used to wait tables (many many many moons ago), and thought Aunt Jen was going to be clearing.
Grammy answered "yes."
"Ohhh-kay" says Auntie Jen. And then picks up Grammy's fork and starts dishing up a bite. She starts chanting "Chugga chugga, choooo, chooo!!!" and starts feeding Grammy a couple of bites.
Grammy, being the obedient child that she has always been, opened her mouth, while blushing.
My 60 year old mother can still blush.
Bright red.
It was sooooooooo funny.
I was cackling.
Because I had known what was coming. And I had already hid my meatloaf (about which I had received a previous warning), under my mashed potatoes.
And no one ratted me out.
And Aunt Jennifer didn't notice.
Ha!
(Oh, and, at some point, NoFear had fallen asleep at the table, having played hard and not getting a nap that day.)
Anyway. The train was the highlight of the dinner. Grammy still talks about the humiliation.
But, with NeatKid and her illin' we knew that we were leaving directly after supper. So I looked around the room at my "cousins" and picked a likely set. I then went over to them and gave them my fastpasses for RNR, and explained that even though they were expired, that the attendants would still take them.
We jetted out of there. With NoFear's pizza (she fell asleep before it got to the table) and NeatKid's entree and dessert packed up. So that it could linger in the fridge at the villa for the rest of the week.
We stopped by the front to get the ticket thing taken care of. Grammy was told that she needed to keep her ticket AWAY from the room key and cell phones so that she wouldn't de-magnitize again. (Actually, they reissued both of their tickets just to be on the safe side.) The wonderful CM there noticed our matching "Incredibles" shirts, and gave us all Grand Gathering buttons with the Incredibles on them. My kids still fish them out and wear them sometimes.
We went back "home." The Shrimp probably fell asleep in the car. I know that when we got back I ended up taking NoFear to the pool to master the waterslide. She won the Gold Medal in the Waterslide event for the JUNIOR Olympics. Just ask Zzub. Everyone else stayed behind and rested. We returned eventually and EVERYONE was settling down for the night by 8 p.m.
(Unfortunately, NeatKid was sick ALL NIGHT, and threw up two more times.)
Will the Shirt Make all the Difference? Page 19 Post 278
NAB
<font color=green>That first page just got too hea
- Joined
- May 31, 2006
Your on a roll Amy.
Love the dress. Isn't it great how they make the little princesses feel so good. I think that is why mine wouldn't take her dress off either when it was so hot out.
DD was totally scared of the characters when she was two almost three. Would wave at a distance but no pictures.
I love the 50's Primetime. Pretty funny with your mom. Sorry about the sick one and the sleepy ones.
You plan but something always changes believe me I know that one.
--
Love the dress. Isn't it great how they make the little princesses feel so good. I think that is why mine wouldn't take her dress off either when it was so hot out.
DD was totally scared of the characters when she was two almost three. Would wave at a distance but no pictures.
I love the 50's Primetime. Pretty funny with your mom. Sorry about the sick one and the sleepy ones.
You plan but something always changes believe me I know that one.
--
UtahMama
Wakey, wakey, Eggs and Bakey<br><img src=http://ww
- Joined
- Jul 4, 2006
YOU ROCK!~!!~!~!!
I LOVED the last three chapters all at once! It's a "THREEfer"!
I SOOO relate with your commando ways! The Beauty and the Beast SHOES-incident would have made me crazy!!!
I just wanted to know if you had the yummy S'Mores for dessert at 50's for dunch??? Hot marshmallows are PERFECT for your tummy on a HOT HUMID day!
Love YA! (and miss you lots!!!!)
I LOVED the last three chapters all at once! It's a "THREEfer"!
I SOOO relate with your commando ways! The Beauty and the Beast SHOES-incident would have made me crazy!!!
I just wanted to know if you had the yummy S'Mores for dessert at 50's for dunch??? Hot marshmallows are PERFECT for your tummy on a HOT HUMID day!
Love YA! (and miss you lots!!!!)
javamom
<font color=green>Rumored Avatar Fairy<br><font co
- Joined
- Jan 11, 2006
Minnie_Moo
Moos-keteer
- Joined
- Mar 30, 2006
So sorry to hear about NeatKid getting sick, Amy.
When I got sick during my New Year's trip I didn't decorate any bushes at WDW, but my friend did -- next to one of the parking lots at POP. And it wasn't due to partying . . .
Thanks for all the new installments! Love your pics.
When I got sick during my New Year's trip I didn't decorate any bushes at WDW, but my friend did -- next to one of the parking lots at POP. And it wasn't due to partying . . .
Thanks for all the new installments! Love your pics.
Backstage_Gal
<font color=darkorchid>Let me rephrase the dog ste
- Joined
- Apr 8, 2005
GaKitty, love the reports!!!!
But I do have one question - after all the searches for Crocs in September, WHY WERE THE KIDS NOT WEARING THEM??????????
But I do have one question - after all the searches for Crocs in September, WHY WERE THE KIDS NOT WEARING THEM??????????
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
Thank you my faithful (and patient) readers!
Marita - the boy wore his crocs every day. The princess, some days, but you really can't argue fashion with a four year old. She wore them most of the time. Personally, I switched off between my tennies and my crocs. The crocs actually rubbed me in a certain place with the straps to the back, which I know is unusual.
Moo - so sorry you got sick on vacation. It really is the pits. I think NeatKid's was compounded by teenageritis. Just a guess.
Java ~ I have a closer picture of her shoes. Shhhhhhhh!
UMa ~ I have missed you too sweetie! Love the new banner in your siggie, btw! And. I always get the angel food cake and berries for dessert. It is one of my most favorite desserts ever. From anywhere. Right after Tiramisu.
NAB ~ I remember that about your daughter - I'm sure it didn't help that she looked so very beautiful in her dress, too, or that her daddy bought it for her! The princess dresses up here at home all the time. There are days that she goes through ALL of her princess dresses. (Let's see, the latest request is Ariel's wedding dress. Apparently having Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and a Tinkerbell costume arent' enough for the spoiled little thing!)
I'll try to put up some more chapters this week!
Marita - the boy wore his crocs every day. The princess, some days, but you really can't argue fashion with a four year old. She wore them most of the time. Personally, I switched off between my tennies and my crocs. The crocs actually rubbed me in a certain place with the straps to the back, which I know is unusual.
Moo - so sorry you got sick on vacation. It really is the pits. I think NeatKid's was compounded by teenageritis. Just a guess.
Java ~ I have a closer picture of her shoes. Shhhhhhhh!
UMa ~ I have missed you too sweetie! Love the new banner in your siggie, btw! And. I always get the angel food cake and berries for dessert. It is one of my most favorite desserts ever. From anywhere. Right after Tiramisu.
NAB ~ I remember that about your daughter - I'm sure it didn't help that she looked so very beautiful in her dress, too, or that her daddy bought it for her! The princess dresses up here at home all the time. There are days that she goes through ALL of her princess dresses. (Let's see, the latest request is Ariel's wedding dress. Apparently having Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and a Tinkerbell costume arent' enough for the spoiled little thing!)
I'll try to put up some more chapters this week!
nicolemarie
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Nov 9, 2005
If this means got it ready and had it waiting in the fridge, that's a good call. And I love the term "combat loaded".
I just spent 30 minutes trying to quote a pic in LaLa's installment. It worked, but I'm not sure how. So I'm not trying it again until I get instructions. ANYWAY - the hairdo in the Belle dress is BEAUTIFUL!!!!
That's awesome!! How many times have you watched the video since you came home? Shame on you if you say "none".
No. There isn't. And I'm sorry you didn't get any.
I've had that same reaction in the flower beds at MGM. Except I was pregnant. I like to think it was that and not the food I had eaten.
Yuck! I hope she's feeling better in the morning!
Love the three-peat installments! And your pics are awesome - especially the ones with you in them!!
Looking forward to a new installment!!
NM
Dreamer & Wisher
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 28, 2006
I am all caught up with your trip report now 
Love the pictures! The dresses are great. I made the same Snow White dress for my DD but I haven't managed to finish the cape part the white collar is difficult! She is 6 now and has decided that she doesn't like wearing princess dresses anymore.
Poor Neatkid (love the nickname) public vomiting is so embarassing
I hope she gets better so she can enjoy her trip.
Can't wait for more!
Love the pictures! The dresses are great. I made the same Snow White dress for my DD but I haven't managed to finish the cape part the white collar is difficult! She is 6 now and has decided that she doesn't like wearing princess dresses anymore.
Poor Neatkid (love the nickname) public vomiting is so embarassing
I hope she gets better so she can enjoy her trip.Can't wait for more!
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
Thank you Dreamer and Wisher (yeah, the collar was a little difficult!), after another long absence I am back.
NAB - you sweetie! Thanks for turning the pages. You are too good to me!
NAB - you sweetie! Thanks for turning the pages. You are too good to me!
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
So, after a pretty rough night for NeatKid, the rest of us woke up fairly early. Grammy and I again made use of the patio in the early morning hours. Grammy never sleeps much, or at least doesn't sleep much in a single stretch of time. Grammy has suffered from back problems most of her adult life. She claims that it stems from an incident when she was around twelve, but that's a story for another time.
Anywho. Grammy prefers to sleep in a recliner rather than a bed. I don't know how many years it's been since she slept in a bed, actually. But, we had no recliner at the OKW villa, and I couldn't figure out a way to fit one into my already overstuffed van. So she jerry-rigged something on the loveseat that roughly resembled a recliner. All I know is that it involved a lot of pillows and blankets. Which I gladly provided.
Sadly, we had much angst the next morning when Grammy was deciding where her loyalty lay. Should she stay behind with my niece who was obviously not feeling at all well? Should she join us in Epcot to lend moral support to me (and distraction for B) since I was supposed to be meeting a whole bunch of kooky internet friends? NeatKid had decided that she would NOT be joining us that day, and needed to rest, but would probably want to eat that evening. I explained to both NeatKid and Grammy how easy the bus system was (even for a 13 year old) and that ALL of us had cell phones which NeatKid could contact us on, and I would rush right back to pick her up if she really didn't want to deal with the bus. Grammy finally decided that NK was old enough to lay in bed by herself. Which was all that she was going to do that day anyway.
We made it to Epcot in time for the opening ceremony. It was, in fact, the ONLY opening ceremony we made all week. Sadly.
But there we were, at the right side of the fountain watching the opening ceremony, and perfectly positioned for a Soarin' dash. And we did. Dash to Soarin' that is. I knew that Grammy would love this one. And would cackle. So we retrieved a baby swap pass and I sent her ahead with B and NoFear. The Shrimp and I first obtained fastpasses for a later flight, then I hopped onto Living with the Land, since I knew that I would have JUST enough time before they ended their flight, and since it was literally a walk-on.
In fact, they were holding a boat when I walked up, and we were the only ones IN the boat. That fact might have reduced my stress level about my child crying the whole way through, if my stress wasn't so high because I FORGOT about the thunder and rain in this ride, which made my child cry the whole way through. Yeah. Big Surprise. The Shrimp was terrified.
I miss having the CM ride in the boat with us, too. So that I could ask inane questions. Like whether any of the shrimp appetizers are cultivated from the Shrimp tanks that we see on the ride.
Anyway, the Shrimp finally poked his head up when we got to the greenhouses. He ducked again when we went back inside, but was distracted by the pictures at the end. He fairly leaped out of the boat when it was over. Poor little guy. He wanted his Grammy, who would NEVER subject him to such terrifying sights.
Then we went back to the Soarin' exit. And waited. And waited. And wondered if I had missed the rest of our party and whether they were wandering around looking for us. So I waited some more, and they finally emerged.
B and NoFear and I took a turn on Soarin'. We avoided the golf ball and landed safely, without even falling into the ocean. It was a close one, since we were on the bottom row. Afterwards, my timing, which to this point was going along nicely, got shot to Hades when both Grammy and B insisted on eating breakfast.
And Grammy, who STILL had not a clue about Disney dining, insisted on paying cash for everything. Well, at least the Sunshine Seasons has a good selection.
And.
It is the meeting place for all and sundry. Especially wayward Norwegian vikings. Wearing matching shirts!
I had mine on. Because this was the day for meeting all of my imaginary friends. My shirt was spotted. First by Javamom and Crashdad, then by Jamal and her friends. I was thrilled to see everyone. B was hiding and ducking. Grammy was Grammy - she can make friends with anyone. I was thrilled to meet these friends for the first time face to face. And hope/wish that I might get to do so again sometime.
The rest of the morning passed without incident. We saw Turtle Talk, the fishes, etc, then headed to Norway to meet a WHOLE BUNCH of wayward Vikings.
Vikings! Maelstrom! (Page 19, Post 279)
Anywho. Grammy prefers to sleep in a recliner rather than a bed. I don't know how many years it's been since she slept in a bed, actually. But, we had no recliner at the OKW villa, and I couldn't figure out a way to fit one into my already overstuffed van. So she jerry-rigged something on the loveseat that roughly resembled a recliner. All I know is that it involved a lot of pillows and blankets. Which I gladly provided.
Sadly, we had much angst the next morning when Grammy was deciding where her loyalty lay. Should she stay behind with my niece who was obviously not feeling at all well? Should she join us in Epcot to lend moral support to me (and distraction for B) since I was supposed to be meeting a whole bunch of kooky internet friends? NeatKid had decided that she would NOT be joining us that day, and needed to rest, but would probably want to eat that evening. I explained to both NeatKid and Grammy how easy the bus system was (even for a 13 year old) and that ALL of us had cell phones which NeatKid could contact us on, and I would rush right back to pick her up if she really didn't want to deal with the bus. Grammy finally decided that NK was old enough to lay in bed by herself. Which was all that she was going to do that day anyway.
We made it to Epcot in time for the opening ceremony. It was, in fact, the ONLY opening ceremony we made all week. Sadly.
But there we were, at the right side of the fountain watching the opening ceremony, and perfectly positioned for a Soarin' dash. And we did. Dash to Soarin' that is. I knew that Grammy would love this one. And would cackle. So we retrieved a baby swap pass and I sent her ahead with B and NoFear. The Shrimp and I first obtained fastpasses for a later flight, then I hopped onto Living with the Land, since I knew that I would have JUST enough time before they ended their flight, and since it was literally a walk-on.
In fact, they were holding a boat when I walked up, and we were the only ones IN the boat. That fact might have reduced my stress level about my child crying the whole way through, if my stress wasn't so high because I FORGOT about the thunder and rain in this ride, which made my child cry the whole way through. Yeah. Big Surprise. The Shrimp was terrified.
I miss having the CM ride in the boat with us, too. So that I could ask inane questions. Like whether any of the shrimp appetizers are cultivated from the Shrimp tanks that we see on the ride.
Anyway, the Shrimp finally poked his head up when we got to the greenhouses. He ducked again when we went back inside, but was distracted by the pictures at the end. He fairly leaped out of the boat when it was over. Poor little guy. He wanted his Grammy, who would NEVER subject him to such terrifying sights.
Then we went back to the Soarin' exit. And waited. And waited. And wondered if I had missed the rest of our party and whether they were wandering around looking for us. So I waited some more, and they finally emerged.
B and NoFear and I took a turn on Soarin'. We avoided the golf ball and landed safely, without even falling into the ocean. It was a close one, since we were on the bottom row. Afterwards, my timing, which to this point was going along nicely, got shot to Hades when both Grammy and B insisted on eating breakfast.
And Grammy, who STILL had not a clue about Disney dining, insisted on paying cash for everything. Well, at least the Sunshine Seasons has a good selection.
And.
It is the meeting place for all and sundry. Especially wayward Norwegian vikings. Wearing matching shirts!
I had mine on. Because this was the day for meeting all of my imaginary friends. My shirt was spotted. First by Javamom and Crashdad, then by Jamal and her friends. I was thrilled to see everyone. B was hiding and ducking. Grammy was Grammy - she can make friends with anyone. I was thrilled to meet these friends for the first time face to face. And hope/wish that I might get to do so again sometime.
The rest of the morning passed without incident. We saw Turtle Talk, the fishes, etc, then headed to Norway to meet a WHOLE BUNCH of wayward Vikings.
Vikings! Maelstrom! (Page 19, Post 279)
GeorgiaAristocat
<font color=purple> Côôl DIS Veteran <img src=htt
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2005
Hmm, after reviewing my photos, I realized that only ONE extraordinary thing happened between breakfast and heading to Norway. My Mom found a smoking area. Yes, indeed, she finally smoked by the rules in Disney. Here's a picture (it's outside the Living Seas.) Trust Disney to make even the smoking areas lovely!
So, after a rather uneventful morning, around 10:40 I had us head to Norway. I could tell that B remained very uneasy about meeting my "freaky internet friends." We were stopped on the way by wdwr(Shelley) who said hello because she recognized my shirt. B's blood pressure went up 20 points. He did NOT think that Maelstrom was a fastpass.
I thought we had enough time to stop in Mexico and ride River of Time, but once we got inside we realized that we didn't, so abandoned that and headed to Norway. Now, prior to this meeting I had met a couple of would-be Vikings (Mark, Rhonda, Wesley and Patti), in addition to the introductions earlier in the day, and I FELT like I knew a whole bunch more. I was excited.
As we approached Norway, I could see a bunch of "us" gathered on a shaded path. Most of the people I recognized from seeing pictures. One of the highlights was Grammyof2 showing up in Sher's "belt" and dancing around. It was hilarious. Also, Jami brought some of the Cookmaster's cookies (YUM!!!) which made everyone, especially the kids, happy. As I stood around and socialized, B separated himself from the crowd and observed. My Mom can get along with anyone, and got into a deep discussion with Grampy about smoking at WDW. I think several others got to speak to her briefly, too.
I can't go through all the conversations I had with everyone (even if I could remember!) but it was wonderful to meet so many people face to face at last! Anyone who has been reading the "Maelstrom" trip reports has seen the picture before, but it always bears repeating!
(By the way, I blatantly stole that photo from Ashclan.)
(Acknowledgements to the following Vikings - it was great to meet you! Marita, Haley, Mr. Silly (and kids), Frickles, Ashclan and hubby, Grammy and Grampy, Sher, Jami, Mark and Rhonda and Wesley, JavaMom and Crashdad, and Horsegirl and KPK89-Kimmie!!!! Who did I miss?)
The photo finally happened after a couple of us, including myself, said we had to go. I, of course, had pressure from B. So we took the photo - it was freakin' hot. Don't even argue Sher!
But we skipped the riding of Maelstrom for then, and backtracked to Mexico. There we found Donald Duck out with one of the Cabaneros. We had not seen Donald yet on this trip, so wanted to get an autograph (or at least NoFear did), but Donald needed to go get a drink (margarita?), so we headed inside to ride the River of Time, and then came back to get some time with the Big Duck. Eventually two of the Cabeneros joined him.
After that, the kids wanted a SNACK. And, well, since we hadn't had lunch yet, we all thought it would be a good idea to buy them ICE CREAM. I love being on vacation. Where rules are meaningless.
The Shrimp greatly enjoyed his:
So did NoFear, but somehow I don't have a picture. Huh.
Off to jolly old England! While we were walking past the pub, I noticed a CM handing out what appeared to be tickets. Knowing, as I did, about the FREE beer seminars, my nose started twitching. Not for myself, as I don't drink beer, but for B. Who had been such a trooper (sort of) that morning, and who I thought could REALLY use a drink. Especially a free one. I signed him up. After getting him settled in, Grammy, the kids, and I headed to the toy store. To find some more characters.
And we did. More pictures:
I think this is also where NoFear discovered the kidcot station. And started a "project." So did the Shrimp.
We knew when B was supposed to be finishing up his "seminar," so headed back outside to collect him. I think the beer made him happy:
Afterwards, he brought his table companions over to meet me since they wanted to know where to get his t-shirt design (I got it from one of the super-talented people on the Creative DISigns board!) So, I got their e-mail and promised to send it to them. After bidding them adieu, I didn't even make any snarky comments to B about "crazy stranger drinking friends." I do have SOME self-control!
We then started to head over the International Bridge - on our way to eat in Morocco. (Yes, ice cream AND beer before lunch!)
Halfway over, we noticed that Snow White and Dopey were greeting down by the International Gateway. As previously mentioned, Snow White was, at this time, NoFear's FAVORITE princess. And, being who I am, I had packed her Snow White dress this day, just in case we got the chance to meet her again. And because it was properly hemmed. So, when we spotted her, we headed back down the bridge, and I started digging for the dress, which was, by then, very wrinkled.
B, the doubting Thomas, had raised his eyebrows to his hairline and shook his head that morning when I packed the dress. He was big enough to admit he was wrong after NoFear's meeting with Snow White and Dopey. Comments were made about being a "twin" and we got a special note on the autograph page. So cute!
After that, we went to Morocco and ate. We were all very hungry. It was, as usual, very good. (Be quiet Mark!)
After eating, I thought I might be able to talk the Shrimp into a nap, so we started to head to America to see Voices of Liberty and watch the show. Before we got there, we ran into Jasmine and Genie.
Obligatory Picture, with the absent Shrimp - given the presence of Genie:
Then we made it to America - what a LONG trip! I videotaped the whole performance by the Voices of Liberty (I just love listening to them!), and Shrimp, predictably, fell asleep in Grammy's arms. When the performance was done, I packed away the camera and retrieved the Shrimp. He then slept through the entire show. NoFear fell asleep, too, but woke up as soon as it was over. Then she went to work at the Kidcot station. Marta, the worker there, gave her FOUR rocking horses, because she was to turn four the next day. NoFear was in love.
Why Bring a Niece if you can't Embarrass Her? (Page 20, Post 290)
So, after a rather uneventful morning, around 10:40 I had us head to Norway. I could tell that B remained very uneasy about meeting my "freaky internet friends." We were stopped on the way by wdwr(Shelley) who said hello because she recognized my shirt. B's blood pressure went up 20 points. He did NOT think that Maelstrom was a fastpass.
I thought we had enough time to stop in Mexico and ride River of Time, but once we got inside we realized that we didn't, so abandoned that and headed to Norway. Now, prior to this meeting I had met a couple of would-be Vikings (Mark, Rhonda, Wesley and Patti), in addition to the introductions earlier in the day, and I FELT like I knew a whole bunch more. I was excited.
As we approached Norway, I could see a bunch of "us" gathered on a shaded path. Most of the people I recognized from seeing pictures. One of the highlights was Grammyof2 showing up in Sher's "belt" and dancing around. It was hilarious. Also, Jami brought some of the Cookmaster's cookies (YUM!!!) which made everyone, especially the kids, happy. As I stood around and socialized, B separated himself from the crowd and observed. My Mom can get along with anyone, and got into a deep discussion with Grampy about smoking at WDW. I think several others got to speak to her briefly, too.
I can't go through all the conversations I had with everyone (even if I could remember!) but it was wonderful to meet so many people face to face at last! Anyone who has been reading the "Maelstrom" trip reports has seen the picture before, but it always bears repeating!
(By the way, I blatantly stole that photo from Ashclan.)
(Acknowledgements to the following Vikings - it was great to meet you! Marita, Haley, Mr. Silly (and kids), Frickles, Ashclan and hubby, Grammy and Grampy, Sher, Jami, Mark and Rhonda and Wesley, JavaMom and Crashdad, and Horsegirl and KPK89-Kimmie!!!! Who did I miss?)
The photo finally happened after a couple of us, including myself, said we had to go. I, of course, had pressure from B. So we took the photo - it was freakin' hot. Don't even argue Sher!
But we skipped the riding of Maelstrom for then, and backtracked to Mexico. There we found Donald Duck out with one of the Cabaneros. We had not seen Donald yet on this trip, so wanted to get an autograph (or at least NoFear did), but Donald needed to go get a drink (margarita?), so we headed inside to ride the River of Time, and then came back to get some time with the Big Duck. Eventually two of the Cabeneros joined him.
After that, the kids wanted a SNACK. And, well, since we hadn't had lunch yet, we all thought it would be a good idea to buy them ICE CREAM. I love being on vacation. Where rules are meaningless.
The Shrimp greatly enjoyed his:
So did NoFear, but somehow I don't have a picture. Huh.
Off to jolly old England! While we were walking past the pub, I noticed a CM handing out what appeared to be tickets. Knowing, as I did, about the FREE beer seminars, my nose started twitching. Not for myself, as I don't drink beer, but for B. Who had been such a trooper (sort of) that morning, and who I thought could REALLY use a drink. Especially a free one. I signed him up. After getting him settled in, Grammy, the kids, and I headed to the toy store. To find some more characters.
And we did. More pictures:
I think this is also where NoFear discovered the kidcot station. And started a "project." So did the Shrimp.
We knew when B was supposed to be finishing up his "seminar," so headed back outside to collect him. I think the beer made him happy:
Afterwards, he brought his table companions over to meet me since they wanted to know where to get his t-shirt design (I got it from one of the super-talented people on the Creative DISigns board!) So, I got their e-mail and promised to send it to them. After bidding them adieu, I didn't even make any snarky comments to B about "crazy stranger drinking friends." I do have SOME self-control!
We then started to head over the International Bridge - on our way to eat in Morocco. (Yes, ice cream AND beer before lunch!)
Halfway over, we noticed that Snow White and Dopey were greeting down by the International Gateway. As previously mentioned, Snow White was, at this time, NoFear's FAVORITE princess. And, being who I am, I had packed her Snow White dress this day, just in case we got the chance to meet her again. And because it was properly hemmed. So, when we spotted her, we headed back down the bridge, and I started digging for the dress, which was, by then, very wrinkled.
B, the doubting Thomas, had raised his eyebrows to his hairline and shook his head that morning when I packed the dress. He was big enough to admit he was wrong after NoFear's meeting with Snow White and Dopey. Comments were made about being a "twin" and we got a special note on the autograph page. So cute!
After that, we went to Morocco and ate. We were all very hungry. It was, as usual, very good. (Be quiet Mark!)
After eating, I thought I might be able to talk the Shrimp into a nap, so we started to head to America to see Voices of Liberty and watch the show. Before we got there, we ran into Jasmine and Genie.
Obligatory Picture, with the absent Shrimp - given the presence of Genie:
Then we made it to America - what a LONG trip! I videotaped the whole performance by the Voices of Liberty (I just love listening to them!), and Shrimp, predictably, fell asleep in Grammy's arms. When the performance was done, I packed away the camera and retrieved the Shrimp. He then slept through the entire show. NoFear fell asleep, too, but woke up as soon as it was over. Then she went to work at the Kidcot station. Marta, the worker there, gave her FOUR rocking horses, because she was to turn four the next day. NoFear was in love.
Why Bring a Niece if you can't Embarrass Her? (Page 20, Post 290)
nicolemarie
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Nov 9, 2005
GACat said:
Is that the same thing as a jimmy-rig? And did it involve duct tape?
Poor little guy.
Great two installments, Ga Kitty! Your pictures are awesome. I always love seeing that meet pic. Looks like it was a blast.
And that Mickey Dawg shirt rocks!! I need a couple of those!!
We missed ya! Glad you are back with some more of your tale!
NM
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