How Do You Think We Stay So Happy?*Final Thoughts & Farewells* 10/7 p100

[2xcited2sleep]

I knew exactly what Christine was up to! She is such a sneak!!!!!
I have to admit, we are slumming it at BLT after Vero Beach We will miss that private entrance but MK will be right next door so we will survive!

Yup. Sneaky, sneaky me. But you know the that is BC. We don't want to let TOO many in on the secret.

Boy we are going to have it rough I mean to stay within walking distance I think one of my favorite things I have ever heard about was from Christine when she was met with warm towels at BC after a rain storm walking back from EPCOT now that is just AWESOME!!!!

I'm hesitant to continue singing the praises of BC but yes, this is true. When it really rains and the pool closes, the lifeguard staff is stationed inside the lobby and hands you some nice dry towels as soon as you come in from the downpour. A very nice touch!

Well, I'm back and all caught up! Can't wait to hear all about your trip- we just had so much fun on ours-

BTW- Mickeysmyboy- what category was your studio? You really did have a great view!

Can't wait to read about the DIS Mom's trip!!

We had some interesting slushie experiences....

We did?

----

As others have pointed out this TR is moving along fast and furious and I love it! I hope no one is offended if I don't respond to every single post. But so glad you're all here and enjoying our stories thus far. And there's SO much more to tell!!!

 

[MEK]

OK - I am going to start this update by staying TGIF!!!!!!! Long Week. Freaky Friday! Every one of my patients was so incredibly needy today. So much drama!

There - now I feel better. PHEW!

I know Melissa hasn't finished describing her solo time, but I know she will. She's busy. She has multiple trip reports going.

I just have one - this one!

So back to Epcot, April 29th. I finally made it to POR and endured a longer than average bus wait at a desolate bus stop. I made it through bag check and I was on the fast track to meet Melissa. Texting, speed walking, and dodging small children and strollers. I was on a mission and I was feeling incredibly guilty that it had taken me so long to get there. There were only two things I wanted this evening - to meet Melissa and to have a rita at the Cave. One of these was about to happen.

Melissa was not my first DIS meet. I felt like an old pro at DIS meets. My first was Christine back in Sept 09. I remember being so nervous to meet C. But as soon as I saw her I relaxed. She had the Disney glow and a great smile and I liked her instantly.

My second DIS meet (which was really a Delaware DIS meet) was with Ellen (Podsnel). She and her sons' met me at a Friendly's in my home town when they were driving home for the OBX last April 2010. I had a great time chatting it up with Ellen and her boys were so polite and well behaved.

Less than a month later I met Ellen again in Disney when she was traveling with all the DIS moms in May 2010. I also met Tracy for the first time that evening. Ironically, both Tracy and I made ADRs at the Wave on the same evening. I think we both arrived to the world on the same day. Totally not planned. But it was so great to meet Tracy and since I wasn't on FB at the time, I had NO idea what she looked like at the time.

I met Tracy again later in the week when she was with Katie (KSchafer) after their slushy lushie meet. We had fun riding EE and visiting Its a Bug's Life. I remember being so impressed at their park touring endurance.

This September I had a DIS meet with Leslie (LL) and Marc. I miss LL's posts here on the DIS board. She and Marc were lovely and such a great couple.

Bottom line - I love DIS meets! And I was about to have another!

Melissa was waiting for me at a table outside the Mexican pavilion. It was a perfect location. Right up the stairs and to the right. Melissa was chilling with a mostly uneaten plate of nachos in front of her. She declared them "not good". We chatted for a few minutes and then Melissa's first phone call came in (well, I'm sure it wasn't here first ). Her kids were missing her badly and they probably weren't sure what to do at home on Friday night without their mom. Just wait Melissa - in a few years they will be flying out the door on Friday night.

Apparently there was some crisis at home, but Melissa handled it like a pro. She was so kind and soothing with the kids. Heck, I wanted Melissa to be my mom after that conversation. While she was chatting, I went to get some of my own "eats" at La Hacienda CS.

I ended up selecting the chicken soft tacos. I declared them "not good". They were pretty much "eh". I'm funny about chicken and this was mostly dark meat. The taco shells were soggy. I normally eat everything (and like 95% of what I eat), but I did not love my chicken tacos. No worries though - they did the trick. I was really hungry, since the last thing I had to eat was a slice of pizza in the airport, so I was happy to take care of my growling stomach.

Before I knew Melissa said, "It's almost time for Illuminations". Clearly I had transitioned from real world time to "Disney time", because the evening was flying by. And a perfect evening it was. I don't think the weather could have been any better. It was cool (but not too cool) with a fabulous breeze. It was purrrrr-fect and I was loving it.

The only thing I was missing at this point was my cave margarita and, unfortunately, that was not to be.

Why? you ask. I mean, afterall, I was only steps away from the bar.

Wellllllllllllllllllllllllll - I did something REALLY DUMB before I left home. Let me explain (and I'll try to keep it brief). It goes like this....

I work in health care
Last spring I got C Diff colitis (ever heard of it? you don't want it. It's not good! I must have picked it up at work)
Flagyl is the drug the treats it
You can't drink when you take Flagyl or you will become DEATHLY ILL!

Fast forward:
I had strep throat right before I left on this trip
I was taking Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin increases the risk of C Diff significantly because it kills off intestinal flora (bacteria)
So - I was at risk for C Diff
SO - I filled a prescription of Flagyl just before I left home - JUST in case I got C Diff again while on Amoxicillin.
I took my Amoxicillin in the morning while I was watching the Royal Wedding

WAIT............NO I DIDN'T.........I ACCIDENTLY TOOK THE FLAGYL INSTEAD OF THE AMOXICILLIN.

DOH! DOUBLE DOH! WHAT KIND OF NURSE PRACTITIONER AM I?

I was so upset that I made this totally stupid mistake. Mostly because I knew I couldn't have any alcohol that day. What a stupid thing to do. But in the grand scheme of things it was just a bump in the road. And even though I really wanted a rita, I knew I would finally get one later in the trip.


So off we went to find an Illuminations viewing spot. We walked right over to Norway and right up to a clear view as the torches were being lit. I told myself I was going to take it easy on the pictures, but do you think that happened??????

NO! So, here goes.........

And Now.........My Favorite Picture of the Whole Bunch................................................................................................................................

I love that picture! Pure Luck!


Illuminations was way too short! It always is! But luckily, it was late EMH so there was no rush to leave the park. Melissa and I set off to walk around the world showcase. We chatted, people watched, and stopped in some of the F&G booths. When we reach the American Adventure we discussed whether to watch the next show or not. It wasn't until 945pm. We decided not to wait.

Of course, I couldn't miss an opportunity to take a fountain picture

Continued.............

 

[MEK]

We did decide to stop and visit Japan. I love this store. There is SO much to see (and take pictures of)

There are so many cool candies and sodas in Japan.

There were also a few very strange food products there. They had bags of tiny dried fish that looked like fish bait. Yuck. Disgusting. Who would actually buy that? Or Eat that?

Pearl time!

Not for Melissa and I, but there were some pearl pickers getting in on the action.

I love watching those girls. I should have taken video because I find them so entertaining. They are so energetic.

When we left Japan I know we were both starting to get tired. I could see it in my pictures.....

The fountains in France

By the time we reached the International Gateway we admitted defeat. We were both tired and I remember feeling a tad jealous that Melissa was going out her private entrance while I had to trek it to the front of the park for a ride to POR.

It was all good though, because I would be at BCV in 36 hours. I could wait that long - right?

So I slowly made my way to the front of the park.

Bye Lotso. I'll be back

I didn't have to wait long for a bus, but I did have to stand. Bummer. After the first stop some nice man gave me his seat and I took it. Can I just say that POR is BIG! I forgot how big, but it seemed like it had to be at least a 1/2 mile from one bus stop to the next. I started to get nervous that the driver had gone right past my depot.

I got back to the room by about 11:30 (Disney time). My luggage had arrived. I decided I should get out my clothes for the next day and try to restore my luggage so Cynthia would have enough room to open hers. I was guessing that she must be getting close to arriving at the airport for her flight.

And Jen - I knew she was in route and I wondered whether she had arrived at the resort or not.

And then - I watched a little Stacy and went to bed.

Up Next - Meeting Jen and Cynthia!

 

[jenjolt]

What beautiful Illuminations pictures!!!

I remember when you first told me the pill switch story....you told it just like a great comedienne and it was hilarious!! I know you couldn't have your rita that night but yes you would definitely get one later!!!

Let's see 11:30pm was I at the resort yet, hmmmmm, probably on my way!! I had to wait a longer than usual time for my luggage and rental car, but by that time I'm sure I was making my way to Disney property!!! SO glad I'm not doing that late trek again this trip!!!!!!

First crisis down for Melissa, hopefully no more to deal with (Wasn't that a horrible shot at foreshadowing!)

Well this lady has to get ready to go to work this morning (I decided that while I'm not bringing work home I'm going to go to work LOL!!!) Oh well!!!! Hopefully then I can convince PP to go see POTC4 with me, he bailed on me last night....

 

[kschafer]

Bottom line - I love DIS meets! And I was about to have another!

I love them too! So sad my christmas trip didn't work out so we could meet again but I am very excited to meet Jen and Anita in June!!

WAIT............NO I DIDN'T.........I ACCIDENTLY TOOK THE FLAGYL INSTEAD OF THE AMOXICILLIN.

NOOOOOOOO!!!! You scared me for a moment worrying it would be a repeat of last year but I am SO relieved it was just a 1 day issue and not the entire trip!

Fantastic pics of Illuminations as always

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Mary Ellen, you take the most beautiful pictures! I adore Illuminations and may be stealing all of your pics. You caught some really terrific shots!!

It's funny, I ate at the Mexico CS last Oct and was also just eh. I think I had the chicken tacos as well. But I've heard the nachos are awesome so I may give it another try. It's always so crowded, though.

How nice not to have to leave right after Illuminations. I love the Japanese dept store too - so many neat finds! I was thinking about doing pick a pearl but didn't. Maybe next time.

That walk home through the International Gateway is priceless!

 

[Queenofallthings]

Great update Mary Ellen! Once again, love your pictures! That's too bad the food was not good for you ladies and even worse that you couldn't make it better with a 'rita

I always dread the walk to the front of Epcot after a full day at the park...and then to have to stand Glad your luggage arrived...I still always worry about that

 

[glennbo123]

You're right Mary Ellen -- that "favorite" Illuminations picture is great!

 

[Disneymom77]

Awesome Illuminations pictures! I absolutely LOVE going to Disney with my kids, but I long for the days when we don't have to do the mad dash to the buses to try and beat the masses and/or a tantrum because one of my girls is exhausted and needs her blankie and a bed ASAP!! I haven't ever eaten at any of the restaurants in or around the Mexico pavillion, but it seems like I'm not missing anything Except a margarita from the Cave! That is a definate must do for me when we're there in November

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

I love that picture! Pure Luck!

I love this picture too!!! How fun!

Oh no, I would have been SO annoyed too about the medication mix-up!! But at least you were able to have a 'rita later in the trip!

Sounds like it was a wonderful Disney evening

 

[MEK]

What beautiful Illuminations pictures!!!

:

Thank you!

I remember when you first told me the pill switch story....you told it just like a great comedienne and it was hilarious!! I know you couldn't have your rita that night but yes you would definitely get one later!!!

Yeah - Like how I remember thinking as I swallowed the pill - "wow - this pill looks smaller". DOH!

I am still pretty far behind on the rita front since I have decided that I must try each one on the menu!

Let's see 11:30pm was I at the resort yet, hmmmmm, probably on my way!! I had to wait a longer than usual time for my luggage and rental car, but by that time I'm sure I was making my way to Disney property!!! SO glad I'm not doing that late trek again this trip!!!!!!

I remember you said you arrived really late. Later than you originally thought. TGF for non-stop flights and reasonable arrival times.

First crisis down for Melissa, hopefully no more to deal with (Wasn't that a horrible shot at foreshadowing!)

I'm pretty sure Melissa's kids called at least two more times that evening. Or one of those calls may have been her husband. I didn't care a bit because I know what its like to have lots of home drama.

Well this lady has to get ready to go to work this morning (I decided that while I'm not bringing work home I'm going to go to work LOL!!!) Oh well!!!! Hopefully then I can convince PP to go see POTC4 with me, he bailed on me last night....

I hope he agrees to see it with you. No bailing allowed. After all, he is going to be missing you when you leave for your two week extravaganza!

I love them too! So sad my christmas trip didn't work out so we could meet again but I am very excited to meet Jen and Anita in June!!

Oh don't feel bad. Even though I have the Dec trip scheduled I feel like its still a bit iffy because we want to take Nick out of school. You and all your boys are going to have a wonderful time. I would take 15 days in June any day. Enjoy all your DIS meets!

NOOOOOOOO!!!! You scared me for a moment worrying it would be a repeat of last year but I am SO relieved it was just a 1 day issue and not the entire trip!

SO AM I! When I told my infectious disease doctor/friend that I was really nervous about getting C Diff again while taking an antibiotic. He said, "I would be too". Very reassuring!

Fantastic pics of Illuminations as always

Thank you!

Mary Ellen, you take the most beautiful pictures! I adore Illuminations and may be stealing all of your pics. You caught some really terrific shots!!

That's Christine. Steal away!

It's funny, I ate at the Mexico CS last Oct and was also just eh. I think I had the chicken tacos as well. But I've heard the nachos are awesome so I may give it another try. It's always so crowded, though.

I lucked out. I got right into a line that was opening. Fortunately my wait was acceptable in length. I was totally antsy to get back to Melissa.

How nice not to have to leave right after Illuminations. I love the Japanese dept store too - so many neat finds! I was thinking about doing pick a pearl but didn't. Maybe next time.

That walk home through the International Gateway is priceless!

It was really nice to be able to take our time walking around the showcase. Plus the weather was perfect. Just gorgeous!!!!!!!

IG is priceless and I am still regretting that I did not waitlist at BWV for December, but I'm letting the boys pick.

 

[Happy Elf]

Great Illuminations pictures! You have some great ones!

 

[TanzUnited99]

Am glad it's Friday for you MEK! Enjoy your weekend!!

on all your DIS meets - how great! Am hoping for a couple of first DIS meets on our trip and can't wait!

Eek at the mexico food - doesn't sound good.

I'm sorry to hear you couldn't have a drink whilst watching Illuminations but there will be plenty of other opportunities, right?

Love the Illumination pics and your favourite is an awesome shot! Also great pics of Japan and France!!

 

[eandesmom]

Love that Illuminations shot!

I swear, your two reports of the food sounds like it hasn't improved at all after the remodel. Jeff, Evan and Taylor gave it the same "not good" verdict back in 09. I admit to never having eaten there but was hopeful as the location is so pretty!

I'd hoped to make it into more of the shops this trip but I've still never even been IN the one in Japan. Pathetic I know. So thanks for the pictures, I always enjoy seeing them.

Let's see 11:30 Disney time. I was not quite at the airport but was on, or about to get on, my way. About then I think we'd just settled our dinner bill and were on our way to the car.

 

[Nermel9]

Yay, your DIS meet sounded like fun!! I have to admit, I have yet to do a DIS meet and I'm a little nervous about it, if the time ever comes, it seems like I'm never there when anyone else that I "know" is! And IF I ever do get the chance to do one, I'd rather be alone and not with my DH...I have a feeling he might think meeting people from the internet was weird...

LOVE the Illuminations pics!!! Thanks to you, Norway is my new favorite Illuminations viewing spot! The Japan pics are beautiful too, I love that store!

Ever since I stayed at the BC, I've been jealous of anyone who gets to use the International Gateway to go back to their resort! WHY am I not staying at BC on my next trip???

 

[pooh'smate]

Mary Ellen, I love your Illumination pictures. Your favorite one in my favorite one too.

 

[MEK]

You're right Mary Ellen -- that "favorite" Illuminations picture is great!

When I showed Denny my favorite he said, "You know what they say about a blind squirrel?"


Nice. Sometimes I wonder about his sarcasm.

Awesome Illuminations pictures! I absolutely LOVE going to Disney with my kids, but I long for the days when we don't have to do the mad dash to the buses to try and beat the masses and/or a tantrum because one of my girls is exhausted and needs her blankie and a bed ASAP!! I haven't ever eaten at any of the restaurants in or around the Mexico pavillion, but it seems like I'm not missing anything Except a margarita from the Cave! That is a definate must do for me when we're there in November

Thank you!

And your day will come when you can enjoy an adult's Disney world. It is fun, but I really do long for the days when my kids got so excited about vacation and loved going places like Disney. My younger son still likes it, but he doesn't love it.

Actually I like San Angel Inn (I have always liked it) and La Hacienda TS was really good, but that CS food was just not great.

Great update Mary Ellen! Once again, love your pictures! That's too bad the food was not good for you ladies and even worse that you couldn't make it better with a 'rita

I always dread the walk to the front of Epcot after a full day at the park...and then to have to stand Glad your luggage arrived...I still always worry about that

Thanks Queen. I can live with the bad food, but I really DID miss that rita. What made it worse was it was due to my own stupidity!

You know - I was really worried about my luggage too. That's one of the reasons I like having a car. It was a relief to find it safe and sound.

And that walk to the front of the park - I think I blanked out during part of it!

I'm sorry I can't do all our replies now, but I am off to my aunt and uncles' 50th anniversary party. See you all tomorrow!!!!!!

 

[KatMark]

All I can say is WOW!!!! What an awesome picture, MaryEllen. The others are great too, but this one in particular is just a WOW.

Great update; can't wait for the next update and meeting up with more DISer's.

 

[manntra]

AWESOME pictures ME!! LOVE the picture that is your favorite!! So cool!!
Very appropriate place for you to meet Melissa but bummer that the ever eluding La Cava and margarita was not to be Although we more than made up for it the rest of the week
Love the store in Japan too. So much to see every time you walk through. One of these days I will do the pearl. I keep saying I am and then never do! My brother and niece have eating some shrimp chips that they sell there. They actually sell them in Wegmans here. I think they do it for the shock value because in no way could they taste good!! LOVE that walk back to BCV. Absolutely priceless!!

Had a customer today that was a former CM....she is now 52 and she worked for Disney for 24 years. Started out working at the Emporium when she was 16. Moved on to other positions in marketing when Epcot opened and then finance. She said when she first started there was just the Contemporary, Poly and a golf resort (she worked there too) and they all said "who will ever be staying here to fill up all of these rooms?" She was originally from up here and her Mom wanted to move back to the area several years ago so she came back. She got it all backwards....she should be moving FROM here TO there!!

Tracy

 

[John's Mom]

PAGE 15! I just found this TR this morning and I'm all caught up. MEK, great pictures.

Kathy