You can take the girl out of Disney, BUT

[Beth D]

We didn't like the first Tiki Room, but loved the version before the fire. DS loves Alladdin, and I think it's because IAGO is so prominently featured in that version? Haven't seen it since the fire last year, maybe next year.

We like Pecos Bill's too. They have a great chicken wrap too!

Jen -I have to confess. My DH is a "big gift" kind of guy for birthdays and anniversaries, but only sometimes. His motto is "I don't do it up big often, but when he does, he does it right!"

For our 10 year anniversary he saved up for a long weekend in Cancun (our first without DS!). The trip wasn't a surprise, but his idea for it was! My bday and our anniversary are only 4 days apart, so I often get combo gifts. My 40th bday /12 anniv gift was a ring. My mom had a special diamond handed down from a great aunt, and he had it re-set into a ring for me!

 

[jenseib]

We didn't like the first Tiki Room, but loved the version before the fire. DS loves Alladdin, and I think it's because IAGO is so prominently featured in that version? Haven't seen it since the fire last year, maybe next year.

We like Pecos Bill's too. They have a great chicken wrap too!

Jen -I have to confess. My DH is a "big gift" kind of guy for birthdays and anniversaries, but only sometimes. His motto is "I don't do it up big often, but when he does, he does it right!"

For our 10 year anniversary he saved up for a long weekend in Cancun (our first without DS!). The trip wasn't a surprise, but his idea for it was! My bday and our anniversary are only 4 days apart, so I often get combo gifts. My 40th bday /12 anniv gift was a ring. My mom had a special diamond handed down from a great aunt, and he had it re-set into a ring for me!

Your DH needs to give a few lessons..

I think Claire liked both versions of the Tiki room....I haven't been a fan of either.

 

[jenseib]

After the Tiki show, Skip had to use the restroom, so Claire and I said we would go have a seat in the smoking area nearby and wait for him.

We passed Aloha Isle and there was basically NO wait at all! So I got right in line and made our order. I had my first dole whip last summer at the Poly. It was just OK. I thought it was too much pineapple flavoring for me. This time I was getting the orange. I decided for the orange float.

We sat down and Claire was asking questions about why I got this, etc. I told her it was something I wanted to try and since it was so big, we could share. She held it out for a picture.

We started eating and it was pure heaven. Claire asked why I have never gotten one of these before, but I had to remind her that I had tried to a couple of times last year and she looked at the line and said no way.

Soon it became clear that I wasn’t going to get much.

I actually had to fight to get my spoon in there…that little bugger.

Skip found us and asked what we had. We told him and he took a bite…”Where did you get that?”….”right over there”. He left us and soon returned with a regular pineapple dolewhip float.

I tasted it and it was darn good too. Much better than the plain dolewhip. I might have to have one of these in Nov…as well as the orange one too. Claire has already said there will be NO sharing.

Claire gave Skip’s a try after she finished off ours and soon he was fighting her for the rest of his as well.

Skip did mention that his feet were so much better today with the inserts. He wishes he would’ve done that the first day.

It was really nice just sitting there. I just had the magical feeling going on, and I mentioned how just sitting in MK was such a happy thing for me….my happy spot. Skip didn’t even make fun of me either.

While sitting there we heard others say that the MK was now going to be open an hour later that night…meaning it was closing at midnight instead of 11. I don’t know when they extended the hours, but I hadn’t heard anything about it earlier that day. Our plan was to watch the 2nd parade, which started at 11, so it really didn’t change our plans much.

We decided to head back over to Splash to use our FP’s. BUT MSEP was going on. The sidewalks were busy, but we pushed through. Once we got to where we would cross it was blocked off. I had never thought about that, but of course they wouldn’t let you through while the parade was going on….or so I thought.


We stood and waited.

We heard a CM telling everyone who wanted to cross to come to a certain area and at a break in the parade we could quickly cross. Soon there was a break and we all went through. It was kind of cool.

We made our way to Splash and got in line.

There was virtually no line….even in standby. Wow, the crowds must all be watching the parade now.

I didn’t get a lot of good shots this trip. It was too dark and I didn’t have a good lens.

We laughed at our picture after the ride. You can’t see me at all….because I am totally ducked down to avoid getting too wet. Claire did enjoy the ride and was happy she did it.

When we got off I decided to make the dash over to Space to use our Fast passes, but Skip and Claire weren’t going to, so I said I would call them when I got off.

I was NOT thinking…The fireworks were going off and I had to make my way through the hub to get there. UGH!

It was soooo crowded, but I pushed on. It’s so funny how so many people totally ignore the CM’s when they say please keep the walk ways clear. I just keep pushing my way through though. I found a family who appeared to be going the same way as I and I stuck to them like glue.

I also found a few things to take pictures of believe it or not.

Once we got to the other side of the hub we all really picked up speed and soon I lost them as they went somewhere else.

As I approached SM I saw a couple walking towards the entrance. I asked them if they were going to ride and they said yes. I told them I had 2 extra fast passes that were good right now if they went right in, and they said thanks, and took them….and then walked in the standby entrance. I kept moving, but hollered back…”those are good for right now”. I never saw them again. Well at least I tried.

I think I took this inside.

The ride was great. And once again it made me think that this is probably too wild for Claire’s liking.

As I walked back towards the castle I saw the Magic and Memories show going on. I love this show, so I stopped off to the side to get a few pictures. I swear it was slightly different than last Aug. I just loved it.

I contacted Skip and Claire and they were on the other side of the castle in the smoking section. I was hoping Claire was able to at least see part of the show. Skip said yes they could see it..

I started making my way there…snapping along the way.

 

[jenseib]

I reached Claire and Skip on the other side of the castle and got to see their view of the Castle show. Not quite as nice…but it was close up.

Claire had to tell me all about how some lady asked Dad for a cigarette because she didn’t have any of her own…then the lady kept talking to Dad. Yep neither of us could ever do anything behind each other’s back with Claire around…she announces it to the world. LOL

At this point Skip just wanted to find a spot to sit and wait for the parade. That actually sounded fine to all of us.

As we left I passed this…the new Sorcerer Mickey interactive game. I had seen people lined up all over the park in certain areas today and it took me a while to figure out what they were doing. I did figure it out though…and it looks very popular, but there was no way we would be waiting in those lines to do it.
This was the first time I could get a somewhat clear shot of it.

We then headed to Liberty Square to our favorite spot to watch the parade. ….usually right near the Christmas shop. It usually is not very busy there……in fact for the 2nd parade it’s often very empty.
We arrived and no one was around. We found a spot and I did double check with a CM that the 2nd parade would be coming through and she said yes. There weren’t even ropes up yet and it was 10:45.
Skip sat down and Claire and I decided to wander into the Christmas shop to browse.

The CM in there followed us around. I can’t stand that. It feels like she doesn’t trust us and we are going to steal, or high pressure to buy something. And I don’t think she was too thrilled I was taking pictures…oh well.

We left empty handed and this was the sight I saw as we walked out so I had to quick snap a picture.

Claire wanted to get in the sleigh for a few pictures, so we did several of those as well.

Notice she jumped to the back seat in this one.

And now we wait.

 

[mom2rtk]

OK...........I want a Dole Whip float.............NOW! I had my first one on our last trip and it really was pure heaven. I can't wait to have one again in December! Probably 2........ I didn't know they did the orange in a float to...... now I can add that to my lis too.......

Loving the "on the fly" night shots. Still sharp as a tack. I also like the shots of the castle at night from the side. I'm gonna have to try that too.

I can't believe that on a busy day like that, you could just walk up and get a spot for the parade, even if it's the second parade.

I saw the comment on your photoshop thread. Did you consider a system restore on your computer? I know it would be preferable to know WHY that happened, but maybe you could at least get them back????

 

[jenseib]

OK...........I want a Dole Whip float.............NOW! I had my first one on our last trip and it really was pure heaven. I can't wait to have one again in December! Probably 2........ I didn't know they did the orange in a float to...... now I can add that to my lis too.......

Loving the "on the fly" night shots. Still sharp as a tack. I also like the shots of the castle at night from the side. I'm gonna have to try that too.

I can't believe that on a busy day like that, you could just walk up and get a spot for the parade, even if it's the second parade.

I saw the comment on your photoshop thread. Did you consider a system restore on your computer? I know it would be preferable to know WHY that happened, but maybe you could at least get them back????

I think the orange is slightly better...but both are darn good!

I have thought about a system restore...but since i got most back I think I am OK and with my luck I will mess more up by doing it. I have done it before on my laptop a few times...but I am always nervous.

 

[petals]

Please keep the walk ways clear.... My video of Wishes from December last year all you can hear is a CM shouting over and over PLEASE KEEP THE WALK WAYS CLEAR!!!

Some of them give you funny looks when you take pics of the merchandise as well.

 

[jenseib]

Please keep the walk ways clear.... My video of Wishes from December last year all you can hear is a CM shouting over and over PLEASE KEEP THE WALK WAYS CLEAR!!!

Some of them give you funny looks when you take pics of the merchandise as well.

I don't get why people think it's ok to NOT follow that rule. So frustrating..and more frustrating is the people who are walking then just stop to watch.
You would think the CM's are used to people taking pictures of just about everything.

 

[vleeth]

I could feel my adrenaline level rise reading your report...trying to get to Splash then trying to get to Space. I love how they took the FastPass and didn't use it. lol Like, okay lets just take this from the crazy lady and smile and walk away. It amazes me how many people don't get the whole FP thing.

Anyways, wonderful update! Makes me think I should do BTMR & Splash during the parade and not make multiple trips over there for FP's. I may have to make some changes to my touring plan.

 

[Caretames1]

Mmmmmmm Dole Whip Now that I had one, I can't understand why we didn't do it before. It's not like it's a closely guarded secret!
I for sure will be getting an orange float!

I feel that same magic when I'm there, I wish I could bottle that up and bring it home with me.


I can't wait to see the M,M,&Y FINALLY! I don't care who's tired, sick, limping....LOL The Castle looks awesome.

Kadence liked playing in that sleigh, she pretended she was Santa, flying.



I think a cattle prod would work nicely in a crowded area!

 

[dizneeat]

Great update, Jen. I applaude you for pushing through the crowds to get to SM!

I have never had a float, a dole whip yes, but never a float - guess it is time to try one in 23 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jenseib]

I could feel my adrenaline level rise reading your report...trying to get to Splash then trying to get to Space. I love how they took the FastPass and didn't use it. lol Like, okay lets just take this from the crazy lady and smile and walk away. It amazes me how many people don't get the whole FP thing.

Anyways, wonderful update! Makes me think I should do BTMR & Splash during the parade and not make multiple trips over there for FP's. I may have to make some changes to my touring plan.

it is a good time to do it. We have done it a few times and the lines are non existant...and if you do it while the fireworks are going off it's very magical.

Mmmmmmm Dole Whip Now that I had one, I can't understand why we didn't do it before. It's not like it's a closely guarded secret!
I for sure will be getting an orange float!

I feel that same magic when I'm there, I wish I could bottle that up and bring it home with me.


I can't wait to see the M,M,&Y FINALLY! I don't care who's tired, sick, limping....LOL The Castle looks awesome.

Kadence liked playing in that sleigh, she pretended she was Santa, flying.



I think a cattle prod would work nicely in a crowded area!

OR who has bathroom problems!
Really I hope that problem doesn't happen for her this year.
One reason we didn't get a float in the past was because of the lines. Now that we know...we'll wait.

Great update, Jen. I applaude you for pushing through the crowds to get to SM!

I have never had a float, a dole whip yes, but never a float - guess it is time to try one in 23 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I bet you are so excited. I wish I was that close!

 

[Caretames1]

OR who has bathroom problems!
Really I hope that problem doesn't happen for her this year.
:

That's it! I going to slip a little prune juice in her drink every morning! Starting a few days before the trip....


Seriously, I'm going to make sure we have some pedi-Lax along this time!

 

[MEK]

Those are great pictures of Claire. I think I know someone who will be getting a Dole Whip every trip now.

Ugh - don't you hate when you give FPs away to people who have no idea what to do with them. What a waste!

You got a lot of great night time shots, but I really love your shots inside Splash Mountain. I haven't been brave enough to get my camera out in there, but I think I'm going to have to try.

Every once in a while I find a CM who doesn't seem to like the picture thing. I wonder why?

 

[jenseib]

That's it! I going to slip a little prune juice in her drink every morning! Starting a few days before the trip....


Seriously, I'm going to make sure we have some pedi-Lax along this time!

Good idea!

Those are great pictures of Claire. I think I know someone who will be getting a Dole Whip every trip now.

Ugh - don't you hate when you give FPs away to people who have no idea what to do with them. What a waste!

You got a lot of great night time shots, but I really love your shots inside Splash Mountain. I haven't been brave enough to get my camera out in there, but I think I'm going to have to try.

Every once in a while I find a CM who doesn't seem to like the picture thing. I wonder why?

We will be so fat when that next trip is over..dole whip floats...one of each...Mickey bars...and a No Way Jose! I can't wait.

 

[jenseib]

I am so excited to say I have all the MK pictures edited. I plan to write up the last installments tonight and hope to get them posted tomorrow. I have one more half day after that. I just might make my goal of being done by the end of July.
I have a couple of other projects I want to work on, but I think I am going to try and get this finished first then I can spend more time on those...which really aren't all that fun, but need to be done. (plus I need to update my blog, which I have been totally ignoring)

 

[jenseib]

Before long we could see the parade coming.

Claire and I had seen this last year in April. I also saw it a couple of times last summer, but this was Skips first time, though he didn’t realize it till the end.

We got a little interaction!

 

[jenseib]

I must say that this parade has grown on me. I am still not a big fan of the music…but I like it better now. I am still a huge Spectro fan though.

Skip made a comment about it being so short. That’s when he realized this was a different parade than what he has seen in the past…and he agreed, Spectro is much better to him as well.

We headed up towards the front. We were in no hurry, but we were ready to leave. So were a lot of other people.

I tried for another balloon shot…note to self……they don’t work well in the dark.

Claire and I needed to do a little shopping though. I was still on the hunt for a 2012 sweatshirt. Claire was on the hunt for anything.

I found one and it was love at first site…..just what I wanted.

This WILL be coming with me in November.

Claire found 2 more Princess Sets….the ones that look like Polly pockets with the rubber dresses. I think she got Alice and Tiana…..and sadly Alice has lost her head. Literally! So we most likely will be buying another one when we go down in Nov. again. This was a very tragic moment when that had happened. LOTS of tears!!

I do not have pictures of those.

We carried our big bag out and found Skip, who had no desire to even set foot in a shop.

We stopped at our locker and picked up our jackets (never needed them this day) and we made our way out.

And I turned and got one last picture of the castle.

We headed to the monorail and Skip thought we would have to take the resort one back since we arrived on it, but I assured him we could take either one and be fine.
Then we hopped a trolley and headed back to our car. It was amazing how empty the parking lot was. It wasn’t too hard to find the car because it was one of the only ones out there.

Soon we were zipping back to the Quality Inn…and someone fell asleep in the backseat. …..though she would never admit it. When we got back to the hotel we woke her up and headed back to the room.

It was late, but Skip still had to watch a bit of TV before going to sleep. I think I caught up on facebook with my kindle. Claire soon griped that some of us in the room were trying to sleep and it would be easier if the TV was off. So off it went and we all quickly went to sleep, totally exhausted from the day. It was such a wonderful day though. It reconfirmed my love of Disney. This whole trip had been fun, but I am still a Disney girl at heart.

And that ends day 4. We still have another half day left! What will we do?

 

[mom2rtk]

So sad to see the day end............. but still, how wonderful to have "found" a Disney Day in the middle of your Universal trip. And to come home with a 2012 sweashirt you can wear back in the same year? Pretty cool.

 

[jenseib]

So sad to see the day end............. but still, how wonderful to have "found" a Disney Day in the middle of your Universal trip. And to come home with a 2012 sweashirt you can wear back in the same year? Pretty cool.

I love the sweatshirt!!!! But as you know I have a little bit of an obssession.