YES, touring Cinderella’s Dream Suite was Amazing!+14 Other Magical Days* Dismeet & Wrap

[emmysmommy]

A few more comments and I'll have to finish up more later!

I'm so jealous of your EMH experience! Any time we try to do pm EMH in the MK, the lines are ridiculously long! You guys got so much done!
I love, love, love the queue at Under the Sea. The way it looks, smells, the extra touches, everything. I know a lot of people aren't a fan of the ride itself, but I think it's an adorable dark ride. Certainly better than Snow Whites Scary Adventure!

Oh my! You must have done EMH when it was particularly busy?? Or perhaps you and the rest of the people in the park were interested in the same rides.

Didn't Disney hit a home run with that queue? And I haven't even seen all of it since we've only done it a few times and it was always walk-on. Definitely better than the old Snow White with the old school props and characters.

"I was taking photos of the resort and the pool area while Em kept walking."

Nonetheless, the photos are simply gorgeous Brenda. Wow.

Poly Peach Wishes is still on my to do list, but as far as I'm concerned, you did that and plussed it. You had pretty much a Wishes cruise!

I'm with you. I so miss “To all that come to this happy place welcome” (brilliantly cut there since the next word was "Disneyland"). I often wonder how many people think he gave that speech at Magic Kingdom.

Oh yeah, Space Mountain in DLand is FAR superior in every way. Unless you're a fan of headaches, then WDW wins.

Yeah, it's sounding like a May opening of the Mine Train. I guarantee it'll be open for Memorial day weekend, so soft opening early May (if not sooner) are VERY likely you lucky duck.

Haha, I remember the soft serve hair backlash.

Oh I don't like that the doorway was open. That's kind of the best part.

I expect you will have a picture of "the door" each trip from now on. If not, you should.

OK... this is spooky. Like REALLY spooky. Here's a photo I took in December... Hello Twilight Zone.

You know me.... stop to take a photo and Em keeps walking. It usually works out! If we'd known our way around the resort it may have worked out better.

Absolutely! It was a modified Wishes cruise. Without the snacks and drinks of course.

It only took me a time or two to be sold on the new Celebrate the Magic show. I loved the sentimental Walt speech. However, as you noted, it makes it appear that Walt was welcoming everyone to WDW. I'm sure he would have since MK is also a "happy place."

My timing could still be off for the Mine Train. We shall see... I may have to wait for the next trip.

Wow! Freaky! Seriously, weird.

We went to ETWB for the first time on our last trip. When you use a fp you miss that first room. Some day we'll have to go standby just so we can see it. We had a little girl in our show that was wearing the blue dress. She looked like a young Belle with her dark hair pulled back with a big blue bow. It was adorable and I think Belle needs to appear in her blue dress more often.

Fantasyland really empties out just before Wishes starts. We were able to walk on Barnstormer without a wait. There is no way I would wait in line for that 30 second ride.

I hope you get to ride the new mine train ride when you are there in late April. Maybe they will even have the fast pass system upgraded a little to give more fp's per day. there are rumors that Disney plans to make some changes once testing is over.

The cottage is so well themed! If there were less people I would have wandered around and taken more photos. I loved all the little details. One of my favorites was a photo of Belle and her mother on the wall. My photo didn't turn out so well but I forgot to post it so I'm including here....

That little girl sounds absolutely adorable. You don't see the blue dress as a costume too often. Most little girls want to be princess Belle and not book worm Belle.

We did Barnstormer for the first time in December and I was surprised at how short it was. A few turns and it was over. I can't imagine waiting more than a few minutes for that one.

I hope they at least have an AP preview or other soft open for the Mine Train. If not, I will try to be patient until the next trip. And I wouldn't mind seeing some expanded options with FP+. I'm sure Disney has received a lot of feedback.

Once again I am loving the pictures. The Magic Kingdom at night is always filled with extra magic with the addition of the lights and your pictures really capture that magic.

Thanks! There's something about MK lit up at night that captures the magic in a different way. It's just more twinkly!

 

[Careree22]

This TR is what got me hooked to these boards! I love love love reading all about your trip and even went back and read the last one too! I can't wait to see how this one ends and hopefully read the next one! Thanks for the addiction!!! hehe

 

[RGirl]

Hi Brenda!

That is so cool that the boat skipper stopped so you could see and take pics of the end of Wishes. I love that!!!!!!

Oh, that picture of your way into MK after the fireworks - I have to admit, that gives me a little anxiety. Those crowds coming at you!

Love the pics from the projection show. We have never seen it……

I agree - the WDW Space is very jerky. All my love is with the DLR version.

I love that you and Em did the Speedway!

I noticed that Ariel’s ice cream cone hair had changed at DCA when we were there in January - the last time it had been totally soft serve!

I really wish we had managed to do ETwB last year. Someday……

You got some AMAZING closing pictures - beautiful!

 

[nfggirl5454]

Great update!

I love Kona dinner, and I'd love to stay at the Poly someday, I think it's so pretty. We debated it for a weekend in August, but the construction is not appealing, especially if the pool is down, so we're doing the Yacht Club. My sister is a kindergarten teacher, so we like to go the first weekend after school starts, since the first week of school is generally really rough. Terrific use of EMH, it sounds like you really fit a lot in. Tomorrowland Speedway is a new must-do for me since I travel with my just turned three year old nephew. I think I'm starting to get used to the smell there!

 

[TinkyCheeks]

Thanks so much for the warm welcome! You guys did look like you were having a great time at lunch that day. I do wish I would have said hello. Maybe we'll run into each other again some day!

Great updates! Kona's bread is so, so good. I'm not sure why they even bother serving other food besides that bread and butter. I sure don't have room for anything else. What perfect timing for the fireworks!

 

[scottny]

I love shutting down Main Street. Nice pics.
Wish I was on an empty monorail right now.
Mission Space I like but have not had the nerve to try orange yet.
Congrats again to Em.
It has been years since we watched the movies in Epcot. Next time we will fix it.
MMM, Kona. Love that place.
Nice pics of Poly. One day I will stay there.
Nice he stopped for pics.
Those crowds I would have pushed my way through in the stores.
Ooh the Peoplemover. So fun and relaxing.
Great pics from Little Mermaid.
Nice departing shots of MK.
All caught up again.

 

[chattadisser]

Ack! I got behind but I think I've finally caught up!

I've never been on the DL version of SM but I will agree it is definately too jerky! And, I'm with MEK...it's a big disappointment to actually see it with the lights on. It just looks like a big erector set. Definately loses the scary factor after seeing it that way.

Christine

 

[livsmom04]

Love the pictures of main street and of the new fantasyland. I would love to be able to shut down Magic Kingdom this year when we go.

And no worries about rescheduling your trip. Hopefully you will still be able to come and enjoy the Food & Wine Festival this year. We are now able to go back to Disney World a little more often now that jason has a new job. And good luck to your hubby for starting a new job. New jobs are great!

 

[emmysmommy]

Oh Brenda! Your pictures of NFL at night are breathtaking....oh I can't wait to see it....just 4 and half more months!!! Sounds like a great evening and you have made me curious to try EMH at MK again! The last time we went, and it was awhile ago, it was a madhouse...but I guess we just have to stay longer

Thanks Jacquie. I'll say that the trip at the end of your countdown is pretty epic considering your plans! You'll love NFL. If you wait until after Wishes the parks starts to clear out. At least that night it did.

Wow you had a wonderful evening, I loved all your photos and you really did close the park down didn't you

Thank you Jo! An afternoon siesta did wonders for helping us to last all night.

Wow! You've been updating like a mad woman.

Something I could clearly learn from.

That's what happens when I neglect everything in my house and try to get that done before Michael comes home and has the impression that I live on the DisBoards!

One of these days we'll be in the same place at the same time, and when we are I'd like for you to teach me how to use my camera as well as you do. I think you've said you use a one step down from a DSLR point and shoot, and since I have a really nice one that my hubby got me for Christmas, I'd love for you to give me some pointers.

Ha ha! Here's my helpful hints... a. Point b. hold still c. shoot Very technical advice!

I got a new Nikon 7700 bridge camera to replace my Sony last year. I have a Nikon D3300 as well but I don't get it out much since I still haven't mastered learning the difference between ISO and aperture.

Your pictures, as always, are so beautiful.

Thank you!

I think it's funny how you and Em get separated from one another when you are shooting pictures. Mackie gets just as frustrated with me for taking too many pictures. She's usually walking ahead of me because of it.

Em knows to just keep walking. I always say that I'll catch up since I don't want to make her pause and wait for me. This particular night I was a little challenged with the layout of the resort property.

I love being in the park at night, there is something so beautiful about it being all lit up and hardly anyone there. I love being able to walk on all the rides and being able to turn around and ride it over and over again if it's something we really love. Mackie and I have been known to do that on Splash and caught Wishes during the ride, the best part is seeing Wishes when you are about to take the plunge down the big hill.

Ahhh I can imagine seeing Wishes during the splash down would be amazing! Wishes started when we were exiting Splash a couple years ago so our timing was almost right on.

You can pretty much walk on in the mornings too, another favorite time of the day for me.
Nothing like starting your day in MK with some thrills right off the bat to wake you up! Get's your blood pumping and adds a great start to your day.

I'm a morning person too so I love the early EMH. My family not so much so I have been known to do solo EMH in the am. I like thrill rides any time so why not start you day off right!

What a nice jaunt back over your resort. When you said you left when you did and got to your resort when you did I was thinking how in the world did you do that?!? But I forgot you were just a stone's throw away from the park, that must be the best feature about staying at BLT.

Staying anywhere that requires a bus is at least a half hour to an hour to get back.

The walk is really only 10 minutes when we are peppy and 15 minutes when we are dragging and tired. Just depends. But yeah, it is definitely a major reason why we love BLT. No need to take transportation.

Y'all still have a few more days to go, huh?

Hi Camille!! My sweet friend!

Gosh, I'm ready to start day 11 of 15 so I still have a park tour, a water park and a tea party to share.

Dinner at Kona sounds and looks delicious! Is it weird that in my mind it’s only a breakfast place?! Bahaha. I’ll have to remember to check it out!!

Anytime anyone mentions Kona I automatically think of breakfast too. I gravitate to the exceptional meal there which will always be those macadamia pineapple pancakes.

Love the pics of the poly at night, and glad you found Em again! Ah Wishes from the beach!! I’ve ALWAYS wanted to do that!! Definitely something I plan on checking out!

With your million trips to Disney you've not seen Wishes from the Poly beach? It's hard to separate oneself from Main Street so we have to book dinner elsewhere in order to justify being away from the park.

UGH CTM!! The lanterns & the “started by a mouse” part seriously tear me apart, like, I’m totes nearly crying now, bahaha. It’s just so amazing!

Isn't it? They need to have little tissue boxes scattered throughout the hub!

…..why have I never thought of going on the speedway strictly to quote ricky bobby…..

It's the perfect setting for quoting that movie! One of these days I'll post video of our driving adventures. I video every time. I may as well post the photo of what not to do while driving....
Disclaimer: There was NO drinking in this photo! It was a joke at DL!

ARIEL DOESN’T HAVE ICE CREAM HAIR ANYMORE?!?!!?

I'm rather sad that her swirly do is gone. It was definitely unique.

Have to agree that I’m just not a fan of enchanted tales, I’ll do it when there’s a newbie with me, but that’s about it…

I'm with you. It's not a must do for me. Although I may take my DH later this month since I want to see him make galloping sounds.

Great nighttime shots around the park!!
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Thanks!

Hi Katt!! My fellow May tripper. Are you still going next month? Sorry for not paying attention of being up to date on anything.

I love your Poly pictures!

EMH in Fantasyland. I love it! What a great way to end the evening.

I remember the ice cream hair! I think that surprised me most when I saw it in WDW for the first time... no, actually I think it surprised me first when I went to DL again and it was "fixed".

I'm glad you didn't panic when you lost Em. Better to stay calm!

Thanks! Even though I don't have your photo skills I was able to point and shoot quite well.

Wasn't that hair great? I didn't see any controversy with it but then again, they didn't ask my opinion.

Ha ha! Yes, I should have a tee that says "Stay Calm and Find Your Kid!"

Somehow my life was so busy I didn't ever start reading your trip report until Friday but I've just read it over the past three days! Fabulous and I've loved it all. Thanks for a fun ride and can't wait for the rest.

Thank you for taking the time to read Aristocath! I'm thrilled that you are joining.

 

[emmysmommy]

Great pictures in this update. Would this be the time to tell you how awesome it was to see Space Mountain with the lights on while ride the TTA on our last trip??

We even got the opposite. We got to ride Space Mountain while the lights on the TTA were on which was very weird because we could kind of see where we were going and all of the bars that were very close to us. It is definitely better the other way around. Can't wait for more!

Thanks Jon! Uhhhh yeah, see? Another Diser that has actually witnessed this phenomenon. I feel so cheated! I just need to keep an eye out for Space Mtn being down and then I need to hop on the PM.

Awesome update, Brenda.

You sure got a lot done during EMH's...very impressive.

I love how you walked right on to Pooh and Mermaid. We've yet to actually see the Ariel with the fins...I have to work on that next trip.

Your pictures around the NFL are absolutely spectacular. It truly is stunning with the lighting.

We have still not seen Enchanted Tales with Belle (not sure if Mary is getting FP for that or not).

Nice that you were able to just "walk back home" and hit the sack.

Thanks Kathy! You mean the girls have not taken you to see Ariel with fins? I have the feeling Mark may like that meet and greet.

I think my camera likes low light. It's definitely not me.

I recommend FP for ETwB if you are going during peak crowd times. It's worth seeing at least once. I love the cottage theming and I love Lumiere. The rest is just great to see because of the little kids that get to participate.

I was glad we were so close to "home" since I would have fallen asleep on a bus for certain!

Brenda, Love your review of Kona. I feel in love with that steak also (and I'm not much of a steak eater) As for the bread, Elizabeth finished it after her meal before her Kona Cone. She mad a face when they tried to take it away after she ordered her cone.
I realized how tired I am when I first read your "NFL". I was trying to figure out how football, MK, and EMH fit together. I will say it came to me before I read on.
Love how empty MK was for you. You and Em got a lot done. Your night pictures of NFL are amazing. Can't wait to see it for myself.

Hi Sandy! Ha ha! Hey, if anyone tried to take away our 3rd serving of bread I would have growled too! Seriously, who needs dessert there? They have the amazing bread with macadamia nut butter.

I'm not sure who decided to abbreviate new Fantasyland that way since "new" isn't going to be the description forever. It should be expanded FL. We did get a lot done thanks to EMH.

I have seen the lights on in Space Mountain - twice, I think. the pictures never do it justice. It honestly just looks like a maze of metal tracks. It looks entirely different than when the lights are down. Kind of cool but not earth shattering. It sort of wrecks the illusion.

OK - that is sort of freaky that you and Rob have the exact same clock picture.

I have never been in the MK that late I wish I could hang that long - it looks so cool that late at night. Your pictures are fab. I love them.

What a great evening! And to be right at BLT. Well, that's just the icing on the cake.

You too? That officially makes me the last Diser to see SM lit up. I suppose I should be glad that my illusions have not be shattered.

Isn't that freaky? It's like we were in the same place at the same time!

My secret to staying up so late is a little thing I call a vacation nap! It was a great late night with more than a few things crossed off our ride list.

I love seeing pics of an empty Magic Kingdom! I just would not be able to stay up to 1:00 to take them.

Hi Credit! Glad I could be in an almost empty MK to share those photos! If we hadn't been at WDW over a week already I would say that our internal clocks said it was only 10pm Pacific Time.

Love your nighttime NFL photos! The wall does look so pretty all lit up like that.

Eeek, I sure hope so!!! Keeping my fingers crossed!

I loved the LM ride at DCA when we went in 2012, but WDW definitely improved on a great attraction with their amazing ride building. It's a shame DCA didn't have a better space to work with, because it's a GREAT attraction!

It has to be so exciting to pass THAT DOOR now and know you have been up there to look around!!

Thanks Kristy! Disney makes it worth photographing all the sites due to their backlighting and such. They do a great job making the park attractive at night.

I heard more good news for us about the MT open. I think we'll have timed our trips perfectly!

MK one upped DCA with Little Mermaid ride for sure but they had the "blessing of size" by using converted space. Still love it though.

Now the nosey part of me will wonder who is staying there.

Congrats on being Mother of the bride!

Congrats to Emily & Jordan, double congrats on a guy who can pick out a beautiful ring like that on his own! I wish them a lifetime of happiness.

You definitely need to drag him over to WDW a time or two! I'm happy you will get to continue the Mother & Daughter trips! I don't get to go with you guys and I would miss them!

Thank you Cassie! You are so sweet.

Em is finally admitting the Disney addict in her is alive and well. I can see a trip to WDW in her fiancé's future.

Nighttime EMH is the time to be in the Magic Kingdom. You can get so many rides accomplished, and the later you stay the emptier the park gets. It's pretty fun to see the park so deserted, almost feels like you have the place to yourself.

I have to agree with you on the Peoplemover; it's set to an odd speed!

I agree Alicia! There's just something about the park late at night. Not to mention the MSEP and Wishes are two must dos at night.

The first time we rode People Mover I was thinking heck, if this thing goes so slow it will take forever to get through it. But then it picked up the pace until I was thinking, hey, slow down.

Great photos. I like the perspective of the castle "tunnel" looking towards Main St/Train Station...artsy!

Thanks Lisann! I didn't really even notice that. So much for my artistic eye!

 

[emmysmommy]

Hi Brenda!! I hoping the same thing about the Mine Ride. We will be there from 4/21-4/25 so fingers crossed for some soft openings. There are rumors that there will be dress rehearsals starting on 4/20. Fingers crossed that this is the case!!

So, when are you going in April?

Thanks for the intel about the MT Sandra. I'm really hoping our timing is perfect.

We'll be there starting 4/28 thru 5/8.

Love all the updates and photos, especially NFL at night. I hope we are able to ride the mine train in May, it sounds very likely !

Thanks Melissa! I think we'll be in luck. At least I hope so. I know my DH may not be as willing to wait in line for that.

Wonderful updates Brenda
I was just looking at the park hours thinking "should we do MK EMH until 1am?" Well you've just sold it

Thank you Linda! I figure even if we get to the park around 10pm we can enjoy a few EM hours. Why not! You only give up sleep right?

Updates galore!! Love it!!

Your night photos are beautiful --- something about the lighting just makes the park so beautiful at night --- like a different place!

Thanks Julie. Disney doesn't let us down at night either. It's even more beautiful with the lighting.

This TR is what got me hooked to these boards! I love love love reading all about your trip and even went back and read the last one too! I can't wait to see how this one ends and hopefully read the next one! Thanks for the addiction!!! hehe

Why thank you Caree! I am glad that you are joining in. No problem. I'm pleased to be your current Disney TR pusher!

Hi Brenda!

That is so cool that the boat skipper stopped so you could see and take pics of the end of Wishes. I love that!!!!!!

Oh, that picture of your way into MK after the fireworks - I have to admit, that gives me a little anxiety. Those crowds coming at you!

Love the pics from the projection show. We have never seen it……

I agree - the WDW Space is very jerky. All my love is with the DLR version.

I love that you and Em did the Speedway!

I noticed that Ariel’s ice cream cone hair had changed at DCA when we were there in January - the last time it had been totally soft serve!

I really wish we had managed to do ETwB last year. Someday……

You got some AMAZING closing pictures - beautiful!

Our skipper was quite a guy, we were pleasantly surprised that he made our first trip on a boat launch enjoyable. I don't think I added that fact in my TR. We'd never been on a boat from any of the MK resorts (other than the boat to and from WL/CR)

Those crowds were like a lava flow! Coming at you and you definitely didn't want to be in their way.

What? You've never seen CTM at MK? You have to stay for that sometime. It is awesome.

Ha ha! You had the pleasure of seeing soft serve hair Ariel too! I didn't know it was called that until Em told me and then it made sense.

Oh, Willow would love ETwB. She would be adorable in her little Belle costume too! Who could resist giving her a part?

Great update!

I love Kona dinner, and I'd love to stay at the Poly someday, I think it's so pretty. We debated it for a weekend in August, but the construction is not appealing, especially if the pool is down, so we're doing the Yacht Club. My sister is a kindergarten teacher, so we like to go the first weekend after school starts, since the first week of school is generally really rough. Terrific use of EMH, it sounds like you really fit a lot in. Tomorrowland Speedway is a new must-do for me since I travel with my just turned three year old nephew. I think I'm starting to get used to the smell there!

The Poly is so lovely. I haven't stayed there in over 25 yrs but I agree, now's not the time to try to get reacquainted. I'm sure many people want to see the construction conclude before booking the resort. I think most people know I'm a fan of YC as well.

Ha Ha!! I'm picturing Disney therapy as necessary for the effects of kindergartners.

I think it's hilarious when you let the little ones drive on Tomorrowland Speedway. I must not have an issue with the fumes since I don't think about that too much. Then again, I love the smell of gasoline so there you have it.

Thanks so much for the warm welcome! You guys did look like you were having a great time at lunch that day. I do wish I would have said hello. Maybe we'll run into each other again some day!

Great updates! Kona's bread is so, so good. I'm not sure why they even bother serving other food besides that bread and butter. I sure don't have room for anything else. What perfect timing for the fireworks!

Why certainly! I usually look back at my photos and get a sense of who was in the background and wonder, hmmmm was it them? I only had photos of the people in the booth next to us and I think a guy at one of the tables nearby. Of course I also wonder were we picking our noses or in a snotty mood too! In any event, it would have been great to meet you. Yes, maybe another time.

Oh man! You know how wonderful that Kona bread is too! They must put something in it make it extra addictive. Kinda like MSG for Disney dining.

We didn't plan it ahead of time but we couldn't have timed those fireworks better. Now the crowds up Main Street are a natural down-side to that.

I love shutting down Main Street. Nice pics.
Wish I was on an empty monorail right now.
Mission Space I like but have not had the nerve to try orange yet.
Congrats again to Em.
It has been years since we watched the movies in Epcot. Next time we will fix it.
MMM, Kona. Love that place.
Nice pics of Poly. One day I will stay there.
Nice he stopped for pics.
Those crowds I would have pushed my way through in the stores.
Ooh the Peoplemover. So fun and relaxing.
Great pics from Little Mermaid.
Nice departing shots of MK.
All caught up again.

Hi Scott!
Oh yeah, all those people NOT in our monorail car missed the show. I'm sure my song and dance was very entertaining.

Ahhh I'd stick with green if in doubt. You don't want to TURN green on that ride.

Thank you!

Yep, love Kona anything!

It's only been 25+ years since I've stayed at Poly. I think it may have changed some.

Nice skipper. He didn't have to do that either. It was appreciated. But those crowds... yeah, the stores would have been a more strategic move.

People Mover should have a sub-title name called "15 minutes of putting your feet up relaxation while touring TL"

Thanks and thanks... glad you are caught up. I must do the same.

Ack! I got behind but I think I've finally caught up!

I've never been on the DL version of SM but I will agree it is definately too jerky! And, I'm with MEK...it's a big disappointment to actually see it with the lights on. It just looks like a big erector set. Definately loses the scary factor after seeing it that way.

Christine

No worries, glad to see you caught up Christine!

I'm sure SM loses some of the mystery once you've seen it in all it's lit up glory. I suppose they say be careful what you wish for. I may never be able to view the ride the same again. I like your erector set description.

Love the pictures of main street and of the new fantasyland. I would love to be able to shut down Magic Kingdom this year when we go.

And no worries about rescheduling your trip. Hopefully you will still be able to come and enjoy the Food & Wine Festival this year. We are now able to go back to Disney World a little more often now that jason has a new job. And good luck to your hubby for starting a new job. New jobs are great!

Thanks Charlotte! It was great to walk down Main Street and be one of the stragglers.

I'm going with Michael later this month into next month and then a girl trip with Em earlier in the summer so I had to move things around to make them earlier in the year. I'm not booked during F&W now so I'm bummed.

 

[Wood Nymph]

Hi Brenda,

I wanted to report back on two things we did on our recent trip because of things you have written in your trip reports. I've lost track of which thread you posted them in, so I'll just add them here.

1. Because of your experiences with dodgy taxi drivers and credit cards, we used cash when taking taxis to DTD and back. There have been some stories like that about taxi drivers here in Chicago pulling a few scams with credit cards, so I don't think these problems are unique to WDW.

2. Crews Cup Lounge at the Yacht Club - I remember your review of the cheeseburger, so on our arrival night at the BC last month, we went over there for dinner. DH had the cheeseburger and it was really delicious. I had the sirloin steak because I was really hungry, and it was excellent. I wonder if they use the same meat at the Crews Cup Lounge that they use at the Yachtsmen? In fact, we loved the food so much we went back for a second time on our last night.

I'm going with Michael later this month into next month and then a girl trip with Em earlier in the summer so I had to move things around to make them earlier in the year. I'm not booked during F&W now so I'm bummed.

I hope you enjoy the Flower and Garden Show. I fell in love with the pink Grey Goose slush at the food booth in France. It is one of those drinks which disguises the booze so well that you don't even know it is there. I like fruity drinks, so it was perfect for me.

There was a lot of good food there. Make sure you try the shrimp and grits. It is very good.

 

[sweetpeaandevie]

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness!!! You really made my girls' day!



please excuse their appearance. they had been playing outside all afternoon since spring has FINALLY arrived!

 

[ememtingle]

WOW! I absolutely love reading about your mom/daughter trip! I think it's fantastic. You two seem like such a great time. I was dying at your 3 Dinosaur ride pictures.

 

[emmysmommy]

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness!!! You really made my girls' day!



please excuse their appearance. they had been playing outside all afternoon since spring has FINALLY arrived!

Oh I'm so glad!! I love the photo, thank you so much for sharing that. I'm still smiling! Your girls are adorable.

WOW! I absolutely love reading about your mom/daughter trip! I think it's fantastic. You two seem like such a great time. I was dying at your 3 Dinosaur ride pictures.

Thank you so much ememtingle!

Ha ha! We were going for the dramatic effect for those ride photos. Sometimes we are not able to pull off what we perceive in our minds to be clever!

 

[emmysmommy]

Monday August 26, 2013: Day 11, Part 1​

The morning started with a lovely sunrise over Bay Lake. No surprise here since most mornings would find me awake early enough to catch the sunrise. It was an interesting sight to see the boat launches heading to their destinations across Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon. The big ferry boat was going towards the campgrounds. I couldn’t figure out where it was going since that was an odd direction. Maybe it was going for a test drive around Bay Lake with a new skipper!

We had a breakfast reservation at the Polynesian this morning. Good thing it is just a short monorail ride away so we can dilly dally up until 15 minutes before our ADR.

A quick photo on the way to the monorail

Looks like it was the Blue monorail for us this morning.

There's that ferry boat!

Breakfast was at Kona Café - still unrivaled as my favorite breakfast place in all of WDW. I'm not talking about just a casual affection for the most amazing thing to be served for breakfast anywhere... but a serious love for those awesome pineapple macadamia nut pancakes. A sigh escapes my lips even now when I think of those pancakes. To read my dining review and to see what Em ditched Tonga Toast to eat, click here.

Don't these look lovely?

Following our breakfast, the green monorail whisked us away to MK

When we arrived at Magic Kingdom, lo and behold within the 8 hours between park close and park open they had started to put up the fall decorations. Very nice! Of course they were also promoting the heck out of the MNSSHP.

We needed some Mickey love so we went straight to the Town Square Theater to see Back Stage Magic with Mickey Mouse. There was a 15 minute stand-by wait which perfectly fine because why??? Yes, there was A/C! I seriously need to travel during the 2 months out of the year when it is not 80+ degrees! Are there even 2 months of the year when the temps don't hit 80+... perhaps not since we were there in early December and you guessed it, it was 80 degrees at least a day or two. Which reminds me, I still have that TR yet to share! I'm so slow at keeping up with this TR let alone all my subscriptions that if I start that one before I finish here it will be a very neglected TR so I'll wait a little longer. Of course the longer I wait I may have 2 other TRs in the queue.

I absolutely love the turn of the century theming of the queue with the old fashioned calculator and other office implements. Every detail of this little ante room is perfectly placed.

We tried to crack the safe with no luck.

I need to take some lessons from Goofy apparently since the motto 'no sleeping in Disney' I appear to have taken to heart.

Cool props. Notice the hidden Mickey with the magic rings?

The crystal ball on top of the shelf is strangely reminiscent of the one in the Haunted Mansion with Madame Leota. In fact, if you can see the book on which the crystal ball is resting it says Leota cyrstals. Hmmmm… me thinks there’s a connection.

There was an adorable toddler in front of us in line who adored Mickey. She repeatedly kissed his nose and was giving him love. The grandmother kept apologizing to us because the little girl didn’t want to leave. It’s moments like this that I love to observe and enjoy. When you see little ones discovering the magic of Disney for the first time and embracing it with their whole heart it is so touching. We told the family no worries Mickey wasn’t due for his magic show yet. The exchange with Mickey was altogether precious.

We were ready to be greeted by Mickey who was ever so dapper in his red pants and yellow bowtie. The photopass photographer captured the memories for us and we were then on our way.

Since I had my PP+ card still out why not pose for more photos – these on Main Street.

Working our way up Main Street we hung a left at the top of the hub and went into Liberty Square. We headed to Fantasyland since we were on a mission to hitch a ride on Peter Pan’s Flight. We grabbed fast passes for the ride which had a return window of 11:25-12:25pm.

Once again, I must point out what a relic this will be before long.

Continued Next Post

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[emmysmommy]

Monday August 26, 2013: Day 11, Part 2​

Across the way, IaSW had not a soul walking that way so we decided to take a boat ride with all of the little children of the world serenading us. We had a boat to ourselves. We’re special like that!

I can totally see that pole stuck in the back of the poor Irish lad. They make these kids dance and sing!

And don't think I didn't notice that the Taj Majal subbed a sheet of plastic for actual water.

60's era technology at it's finest.

After taking about 60 photos during the ride, oh wait I exaggerate, I took 53 photos during the ride, we were deposited back at the dock.

Next up was Haunted Mansion with a 10 minute stand-by wait. Ahhhh to enjoy a ride in our doom buggy while we observe 999 happy haunts.

“...And consider this dismaying observation: This chamber has no windows, and no doors... Which offers you this chilling challenge: to find a way out! Ha ha ha ha ha ha! Of course, there's always my way...”

Madame Leota’s creepy séance scene:
"Serpents and spiders, tail of a rat / Call in the spirits, wherever they're at. / Rap on a table, it's time to respond / Send us a message from somewhere beyond. / Goblins and ghoulies from last Halloween / Awaken the spirits with your tambourine. / Creepies and crawlies, toads in a pond / Let there be music from regions beyond. / Wizards and witches, wherever you dwell / Give us a hint by ringing a bell."

Madame Leota could use a little sunlight for that pale complexion.

I love this expression that I caught!

I was intent on getting the hidden mickey on the table but my photo skills are lacking so this is all I got.

Our doom buggy stalled in the attic scene with the bride holding the hatchet. It was the perfect opportunity to try and capture a clearer photo of this dear sweet lady err murderess. After being encouraged to “come baaack” we scurried out of there but not before snapping a photo of an unmanned ride console. I know, the things that capture my attention.

If your bride shows up to your wedding looking like this, RUN!

It would be a great addition to the attraction if they randomly had some of the doom buggies go off road into the graveyard.

Continued Next Post

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[TinkyCheeks]

Great update! I love the pictures you took of Haunted Mansion. They've made me so homesick for Disney! I just love that ride so much.

How sweet that you were able to watch that little girl interact with Mickey!

I want so badly to go to Kona one of these times for breakfast for those pancakes. They sound so good!

That shade of pink or coral looks really great on you!

 

[emmysmommy]

Hi Brenda,

I wanted to report back on two things we did on our recent trip because of things you have written in your trip reports. I've lost track of which thread you posted them in, so I'll just add them here.

1. Because of your experiences with dodgy taxi drivers and credit cards, we used cash when taking taxis to DTD and back. There have been some stories like that about taxi drivers here in Chicago pulling a few scams with credit cards, so I don't think these problems are unique to WDW.

2. Crews Cup Lounge at the Yacht Club - I remember your review of the cheeseburger, so on our arrival night at the BC last month, we went over there for dinner. DH had the cheeseburger and it was really delicious. I had the sirloin steak because I was really hungry, and it was excellent. I wonder if they use the same meat at the Crews Cup Lounge that they use at the Yachtsmen? In fact, we loved the food so much we went back for a second time on our last night.

I'm convinced it's just better to pay cash. I just posed an update on the live dining thread about our December Shula's dinner where we took a taxi to the Dolphin Hotel and the taxi driver said the transaction didn't go through. Yeahhhh okayyy. I paid cash and then saw that the charge was also on my cc. I contested it because I had asked for a receipt for when I paid cash and I made sure that I got the guy's name and badge number. But what a pain.

I'm glad you enjoyed Crew's Cup lounge not once but twice! I don't think many people know that they have a great little menu. I wonder if they use some of the same meat as Yachtsman and not Captain's Grill. Good question.

Your comment made me think this is a great option to plug a hole in our dining plans later this month. Thanks for the reminder!

I hope you enjoy the Flower and Garden Show. I fell in love with the pink Grey Goose slush at the food booth in France. It is one of those drinks which disguises the booze so well that you don't even know it is there. I like fruity drinks, so it was perfect for me.

There was a lot of good food there. Make sure you try the shrimp and grits. It is very good.

Sorry I missed responding to your post Sue.

This will only be our second F&G time to travel to WDW but the first time since having the food booths. The shrimp and grits sounds familiar... I wonder if they had that for F&W somewhere too or if I'm imagining that.

Oh, I love fruity drinks so I'm glad that you described that. Gotta make a note of the pink Grey Goose slushie. I will definitely report back on that one.

I'm glad you enjoyed your trip!

 

[emmysmommy]

Great update! I love the pictures you took of Haunted Mansion. They've made me so homesick for Disney! I just love that ride so much.

How sweet that you were able to watch that little girl interact with Mickey!

I want so badly to go to Kona one of these times for breakfast for those pancakes. They sound so good!

That shade of pink or coral looks really great on you!

Thank you! I'm sure there are a thousand other details in the HM ride that I've missed since it's too much to take in but I'm a big fan!

Oh my gosh! Best pancakes - EVER! If you ever have the opportunity try them. And you can't get the pancakes that are served with the Big Kahuna, they are not the same.