“IF THIS IS A DREAM, I DON’T WANT TO WAKE UP!” – POP! Goes The Solo Trip **THE END**

[natebenma]

Hey Rob! Finally made it back here!

Caught up on your second day (first full day) of the trip.

I love your description of the excitement of the new RFID entry system. It does feel like a WIN each time it actually works! Especially after reading some of the nightmares during testing. Like the day in mid-August when the turnstile system completely shutdown in all parks!

Your EE ride photos are just hilarious!!! I love your poses and seeing how it is just such a different ride experience for people. My favorite was the boy in the blue in the last or one of the last pictures who looks like he is squirming out of the car.

I saw a post from one of my FB friends. She is a CM and her assignment on Thursday was to ride EE and Dinosaur for 4 hours to test the Photopass Plus system. Looks like you already did that back in April!!! Maybe you should see if Disney will give you a bonus.

I love the pictures you took on the ride. The one looking down on the track is really cool, because I have never seen that- I am always looking out at the EPCOT resorts, EP and HS when I am at that point in the ride.

PHEW on recovering your wallet!!! Can only imagine the panic you were experiencing! I'm glad you got it back in a "relatively" short amount of time (I know it didn't seem it) so that you could continue on with your day.

We have only seen Nemo once. Such a visually amazing show. I'm meh on the songs, I could live with just the storyline, but it doesn't really matter because I can't seem to drag my guys to shows anyway.

I'm so glad you had a successful safari!!! The cheetahs are the most elusive animal on the attraction and you were so fortunate to see one out in the open. And that's a pretty sweet score on the lions! Quantity and Quality.

Moving on to EPCOT (a good move in my opinion)-

I haven't seen where they use the same photo for both faces in "Your future". I like it. Maybe a nod toward cloning?

The illuminations pictures are great. Love your secret spot!

Looking forward to catching up on castle overload next time!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Hey Rob! Finally made it back here!

Caught up on your second day (first full day) of the trip.

I love your description of the excitement of the new RFID entry system. It does feel like a WIN each time it actually works! Especially after reading some of the nightmares during testing. Like the day in mid-August when the turnstile system completely shutdown in all parks!

Your EE ride photos are just hilarious!!! I love your poses and seeing how it is just such a different ride experience for people. My favorite was the boy in the blue in the last or one of the last pictures who looks like he is squirming out of the car.

I saw a post from one of my FB friends. She is a CM and her assignment on Thursday was to ride EE and Dinosaur for 4 hours to test the Photopass Plus system. Looks like you already did that back in April!!! Maybe you should see if Disney will give you a bonus.

I love the pictures you took on the ride. The one looking down on the track is really cool, because I have never seen that- I am always looking out at the EPCOT resorts, EP and HS when I am at that point in the ride.

PHEW on recovering your wallet!!! Can only imagine the panic you were experiencing! I'm glad you got it back in a "relatively" short amount of time (I know it didn't seem it) so that you could continue on with your day.

We have only seen Nemo once. Such a visually amazing show. I'm meh on the songs, I could live with just the storyline, but it doesn't really matter because I can't seem to drag my guys to shows anyway.

I'm so glad you had a successful safari!!! The cheetahs are the most elusive animal on the attraction and you were so fortunate to see one out in the open. And that's a pretty sweet score on the lions! Quantity and Quality.

Moving on to EPCOT (a good move in my opinion)-

I haven't seen where they use the same photo for both faces in "Your future". I like it. Maybe a nod toward cloning?

The illuminations pictures are great. Love your secret spot!

Looking forward to catching up on castle overload next time!

Haha, welcome back Dee!

I really did enjoy the RFID system, but then I'm a sucker for flashing lights.

I know it's hard to believe, but I really do like Everest. Shocking I know. Those ride photos alone made the Attractions Plus pass such a value. It's fun to do your own poses, but I so enjoy looking at everyone else probably more. Some of their reactions are priceless.

Bahaha, I was thinking at the very least I should get some comp for advertising the Attractions+ so vigorously. But wow, now that's a job I could really get into.

Thanks Dee. When you ride it that much, you just have to try to capture all the angles.

I was actually just thinking about that recently too. It was HORRIBLE as you can imagine. I'm not sure I've ever felt more helpless. Thank Mickey I was able to get it back. Disney magic I think.

I guess we're even then on the amount of times seeing Nemo. I really did enjoy it though. It's not as good as FOTLK, but certainly enjoyable. And that stork really blew me away.

Oh totally. I never see the cheetahs so I was pretty stoked. And I didn't even know there were 3 lions.

Haha, yup. It was admittedly a pretty easy decision.

Me neither. I've even seen where I've ridden with someone and only one face shows up. So this was really bizarre, and you may be right on the "cloning". God help us!

Ahh thanks. I have a feeling others will now "discover" that spot. As long as the trees don't grow up too much, it's really fantastic being up above everyone.

Oh you have NO idea.

 

[IheartDDuck]

Hi Rob! Getting all caught up.

I actually haven't been to Coronado Springs since we stayed there many moons ago. It is definitely a beautiful resort.

Nice face on Spaceship Earth! And they doubled it up!

That cupcake is just ridiculous. And absolutely fascinating.

Hahahaha. Tampons in men's rooms don't normally happen?

Wow, you definitely learned some awesome stuff on the Keys to the Kingdom tour. I always hesitated to take it, because I know a lot of the facts, but I'll definitely have to consider it for an upcoming trip.

I've always found the location of the Space Mountain ride photo to be bizarre. Nothing going on and then snap! We always look so dumb. Hahaha!

Ugh. The Deluxe Resort bus situation always drives me crazy. Since we're DVC, we always have to contend with it. Not pretty at all.

That's awesome about your sponsoring Johanna for so many years. It's great that you get to see her growing up.

I've never had an experience like that at Earl of Sandwich, I'm sorry that you did! We've been there in enormous lines and it normally only took minutes to get through.

Wow! A signed Stacey picture! Impressive.

That's amazing that you met someone who was at the Magic Kingdom on opening day.

That little boy basically summed up everything about Disney in just a few words. I never want to wake up from my Disney dream.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Hi Rob! Getting all caught up.

I actually haven't been to Coronado Springs since we stayed there many moons ago. It is definitely a beautiful resort.

Nice face on Spaceship Earth! And they doubled it up!

That cupcake is just ridiculous. And absolutely fascinating.

Hahahaha. Tampons in men's rooms don't normally happen?

Wow, you definitely learned some awesome stuff on the Keys to the Kingdom tour. I always hesitated to take it, because I know a lot of the facts, but I'll definitely have to consider it for an upcoming trip.

I've always found the location of the Space Mountain ride photo to be bizarre. Nothing going on and then snap! We always look so dumb. Hahaha!

Ugh. The Deluxe Resort bus situation always drives me crazy. Since we're DVC, we always have to contend with it. Not pretty at all.

That's awesome about your sponsoring Johanna for so many years. It's great that you get to see her growing up.

I've never had an experience like that at Earl of Sandwich, I'm sorry that you did! We've been there in enormous lines and it normally only took minutes to get through.

Wow! A signed Stacey picture! Impressive.

That's amazing that you met someone who was at the Magic Kingdom on opening day.

That little boy basically summed up everything about Disney in just a few words. I never want to wake up from my Disney dream.

Danielle, welcome back!

It was really pretty, but it did seem really spread out. It looked like a really great "relaxation" resort though.

Why thank you, but I still don't know how that happened.

TOTALLY. And pretty darn tasty too.

Strangely, no. I think Disney should get on that though considering the amount of women that send their significant others to the store to pick up said product. Missed opportunity I think.

Dani, DO IT!!! I can't endorse it enough. Just seeing some of the backstrage areas is so freaking cool, and the UTILIDORS!!!

Bahaha, I think that was the reason for the setup maybe. Everyone's just sitting there staring off, looking bored. They do make for some ridiculous photos.

Haha, well this was my first "Deluxe" bus, but it really did surprise me to see the free for all. Once again the reason I have a car.

Thank you so much. It's been such a joy to be a part of. And because I only get a new photo once a year, the changes are even more pronounced. It's staggering to think this little child will be turning into a *gasp* teenager in just a couple of months.

Yeah, I really do think this was VERY unusual from what everyone has said. I'm certain to give it another shot in the future as the sandwich was wonderful.

Ahhhh I was SO EXCITED!!!!

Oh and he was such a sweet man too. I just loved sitting and talking with him. Too many people dismiss the elderly way too quickly. It was a definite highlight.

And THAT was the absolute best moment ever. Children just get it and just have that ability to condense a feeling into a few short words. It was amazing!

WOW, you did a LOT of reading. Thank you so much for sticking around!!!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

"I’M GONNA RIDE THAT PUPPY... AND I’M GONNA GET WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!"
Day 5 – May 1, 2013 Part 2


After disembarking the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness, I made my way over to Splash to find an even shorter wait.

Splash is always awesome, but Splash with a 5 minute wait... PRICELESS.

This is easily my favorite ride in Magic Kingdom because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want to find their “Laughing Place”?

The theming of Splash is so fascinating to me. Most people have never even seen “Song of the South” in its entirety.

Honestly, I think Splash is as perfect an example of what Disney is than maybe any other attraction.

At its core, it’s nothing but a flume ride.

A FLUME RIDE!

The thing is, it just happens to be way better than any flume ride in the history of ever.

It is simply Disney storytelling at its very best and it's something they do better than anybody on the planet.

One of my absolute favourite spots in the whole wide world right here!!

Now, one of the things I love to do is to make new friends, especially in Disney.

So I couldn’t help but engage in a conversation with one of those new friends sitting beside me as I explained the upcoming drop really isn’t that bad.

Ummmm... OK. I know it may look like I am talking to an empty seat but you just have to believe.

As long as we all believe, then the power of dreams will always triumph.

Remember… We must always believe in our wishes... For they are the magic in the world.


Now… Let's all put our hearts together… And make a wish come true.

MUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCH better.

You see, it's just like I told ya... Wishes can come true... If you believe in them with all your heart.

And seriously, who else would you expect to join me on a water ride?

Extremely satisfied with my Splash experience, I left Frontierland and moved into Adventureland, as evidenced by the following sign,

See... Adventureland!

Where I came upon a roaming pirate out for a stroll.

He came right over to me and attempted to give me his flag to wave and yell some line, which I can’t currently recall.

I declined however, using a quick thinking on the fly sore shoulder excuse to get out of it.

My new pirate friend immediately became so genuinely concerned about my (fake) injury that I felt really bad for making it up.

Disney people are just the kindest souls... Even pirates.

I may have considered doing it if there had been the promise of receiving a Seinfeld “Puffy Shirt” to wear, but sadly none was offered.

So I moved on to Cap'n Jack’s Pirate Tutorial, which is basically the Jedi Tutorial… with pirates.

By being solo, I was free to stop at these little things that I might otherwise pass by, simply because I wasn’t holding anybody up.

Ow... My back!!!

Ow... My... Front!!

YAY PIRATES!

It was actually quite entertaining and funny, so if you get a chance, it’s definitely worth a stop.


CONTINUED NEXT POST
​

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Day 5 – May 1, 2013 Part 2 Cont.


After watching the kids kick some pirate bootay,

And believe me, some of them take it VERY seriously,

I arrived on Main Street just as the Princesses arrived to Dream Along with Mickey.

So I set up in front on the castle (actually a little too much to the side but whatev) to enjoy.

“Gosh Minnie… You’ve always been a Princess to me.”

…And there goes my heart melting again after I just got it fixed!

I would love for this Hook and Smee to appear in the park for meets since they'd be allowed to talk.

Also, the blond dancer behind Goofy just fascinated me; she just had such great facial expressions throughout.

I mean, yes, she’s pretty and all, but there was just something extra special about her and her performance.

I just love this show, I really do.

I know a lot of people complain about the price of a Disney vacation, but honestly, I really can’t think of a better value.

Considering everything you get, I think it's a downright bargain.

And this day was just getting started.



TO BE CONTINUED…
​

 

[courtneybelle]

Got home yesterday. Spiraling into Post-Disney Depression. So I'm starting to write up my TR but I had to take a break to read the new updates! I do have to tell you, though, that Manta changed my life, and I probably wouldn't have ridden it if you didn't give it such a glowing review in your other TR, so thanks!!!

THAT ARIEL PHOTO. I CAN'T EVEN. Actually burst out laughing. But any wish is possible...

The pirate show looked so cute! I'll have to check it out sometime!

DAWM love <3 Great pic of the fireworks going off!

 

[wiigirl]

Great pics!

 

[Tracy161]

The thing is, it just happens to be way better than any flume ride in the history of ever.

It is simply Disney storytelling at its very best and it's something they do better than anybody on the planet.

Your summary of Splash Mountain is pretty much how I feel about Disney World in general... well said.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

MUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCH better.
​

so THAT'S why he wanted to be a real boy ... so he could become a real man!

I may have considered doing it if there had been the promise of receiving a Seinfeld “Puffy Shirt” to wear, but sadly none was offered.
​

But I don't want to be a pirate!

 

[IheartDDuck]

Splash is a flume ride. But definitely one unlike any other!

Many many moons ago (i.e like 1993), we stayed at Fort Wilderness in the cabins, and they played Song of the South at the campfire. That is officially the last time I saw that movie in its entirety.

Hahaha! Lucky guy riding with Ariel.

 

[leopardmickeyears]

LOLOLOL OMG those Splash picutures!

Those are some great pictures from Dream Along with Mickey

 

[wdwgirl03]

I totally agree with you about the theming of Splash Mountain. It is amazing and so much better than any other flume ride. We were actually kind of talking about this the other day with the Tower of Terror. I mean, how many drop/freefall rides are there and how many have awesome theming like TOT?

hahaha, love your ride photo.

I should stop and watch the Pirate tutorial. I always get a kick out of the Jedi Training and watching those kids. I bet the pirate one is cute too.

 

[11point5]

BEST ride photos of life!!! Good thing I was wishing so hard for your friend to appear!
This update had some of the most awesome "feels-like-I'm-really-there" pictures in it, so thank you for that!! My 180day window for my next trip was a couple days ago and I had been all ultra-excited for that day to come but now that it's over it seems like my trip is aaages away...reading TRs is the only thing helping right now! Looking forward to your next post! Maybe you'll do some delicious Disney eating?

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Got home yesterday. Spiraling into Post-Disney Depression. So I'm starting to write up my TR but I had to take a break to read the new updates! I do have to tell you, though, that Manta changed my life, and I probably wouldn't have ridden it if you didn't give it such a glowing review in your other TR, so thanks!!!

THAT ARIEL PHOTO. I CAN'T EVEN. Actually burst out laughing. But any wish is possible...

The pirate show looked so cute! I'll have to check it out sometime!

DAWM love <3 Great pic of the fireworks going off!

I'd say "welcome back", but I know how much it sucks, lol. But since you're back in 3 months, I guess it's not too bad.
Yay for writing a TR though. I'll keep an eye out.
I am SO glad you liked Manta. I truly hate to say that anything non-Disney is the best. But Manta is just so fabulous, it's one of the very few things that qualify.

Hahaha, Thank You!!! Wishes do come true... in Disney.

It really is cute. It's not a must see all the time, but definitely worth checking out.

That show is just so wonderful. I need to watch it more.

Great pics!

Thanks so much!!

Your summary of Splash Mountain is pretty much how I feel about Disney World in general... well said.

Thank you Tracy. It really does apply to all of WDW for sure.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

so THAT'S why he wanted to be a real boy ... so he could become a real man!

Hahaha... nice!

But I don't want to be a pirate!

Bahaha, I was so wondering who would be the first to say that so I left it out. Congratulatons!!

Splash is a flume ride. But definitely one unlike any other!

Many many moons ago (i.e like 1993), we stayed at Fort Wilderness in the cabins, and they played Song of the South at the campfire. That is officially the last time I saw that movie in its entirety.

Hahaha! Lucky guy riding with Ariel.

It's so amazing how they took such a basic (and much done) concept and made it so unique and, well, awesome.

Wow really? I know Disney has been avoiding releasing it for years due to the perceived racism. Interesting that it was actually shown on the resort. I had no idea.

Oh totally. All it takes is a wish and some pixie dust!!

LOLOLOL OMG those Splash picutures!

Those are some great pictures from Dream Along with Mickey

Thanks so much Meg!! I felt so fortunate to ride with royalty! And she was so attentive too!

Aww thank you. I wish I had been a little more centred, but since I arrived a little late, it wasn't too bad. I so love that show!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

I totally agree with you about the theming of Splash Mountain. It is amazing and so much better than any other flume ride. We were actually kind of talking about this the other day with the Tower of Terror. I mean, how many drop/freefall rides are there and how many have awesome theming like TOT?

hahaha, love your ride photo.

I should stop and watch the Pirate tutorial. I always get a kick out of the Jedi Training and watching those kids. I bet the pirate one is cute too.

So very true Sarah. You could really apply that statement to pretty much everything at WDW. ToT is another GREAT example. There really are loads of drop towers around, but nothing compares to ToT. Not even close.

Bahaha, thanks! When you wish upon a star...

It is realy cute. I mean, it's more or less the same thing as the Jedi Training, but some of those kids can get pretty aggressive. It's so comical. I don't know that I would make a special point of seeking it out, but would definitely stop if it was happening.

BEST ride photos of life!!! Good thing I was wishing so hard for your friend to appear!
This update had some of the most awesome "feels-like-I'm-really-there" pictures in it, so thank you for that!! My 180day window for my next trip was a couple days ago and I had been all ultra-excited for that day to come but now that it's over it seems like my trip is aaages away...reading TRs is the only thing helping right now! Looking forward to your next post! Maybe you'll do some delicious Disney eating?

Haha, yes, wishes do come true if you just believe. Only those who have the power of wishes would be able to see the reality of that photo.

Thank YOU for saying that Suzi! I'm so glad you like the photos.

Ahhh, the time will just fly by, guaranteed. Before you know it, you'll be Disney bound.

Delicious Disney eating, eh... Have you been reading ahead?

 

[teekathepony]

The theming of Splash is so fascinating to me. Most people have never even seen “Song of the South” in its entirety.

Honestly, I think Splash is as perfect an example of what Disney is than maybe any other attraction.

At its core, it’s nothing but a flume ride.
[...]

It is simply Disney storytelling at its very best and it's something they do better than anybody on the planet.

You're absolutely right. I forgot that I've never seen Song of the South... yet I love the theming on that ride. Going to have to find me a copy of that movie now!
WOW! You got to ride Splash with Ariel? So cool. I wonder if all the water rides are connected so she can get around easier.
I LOVE the castle stage show! I get goosebumps, it's so fun and sweet. A great way to see lots of characters!

 

[katt789]

Bahahaha nice Splash picture, I believe it, it happened….

I do like stopping to check out the pirates and jedi show, they’re super cute and the kids totally take it so seriously, and you never really know what they\ll do, it’s always a surprise!

AH! I follow a good friend of Wendy’s on tumblr, I may have posted that pic on tumblr as well..Oh that blonde is so cute!! I really liked her last time I saw the show, she’s great! Also, I have to say, not sure if it’s the angle, but man does Aurora look TALL, especially compared to the height difference between Cindy and her Prince!

 

[peachmermaid]

Seriously, that splash photo is the best!!

I love cast members. I always tell people that I go to wdw as often as I do because I don't need to feel weird about being me, about being nice or polite. I love how cast members go the distance every single day. It was very nice of that pirate to be so concerned. Maybe he is a prince in disguise! Someone get Belle so we can find out!

That show looks so cute. I will have to stop next month to see it. Great shots, even from the side of the castle! Soooo cute.