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

[DisneyKid4Life]

Well I'm not sure if they don't make them anymore but last year i asked our fellow Canadians where i could purchase them and they didn't have a clue what i was talking about Ive found some online but as usual shipping to Montreal is ridiculous so i would rather buy them at the world, so since I'm going before you i will report back if i find them this time.

PS. to you also, funny thing we almost went at the same time as you because my mothers birthday is the 11th like your niece.

Haha, it's always surprising when the guest knows more than the CM's. I agree about the crazy shipping cost to Canada in general. When I bought my Snow Globe from DisneyStore online, the shipping was more than the globe. But I HAD to have it, so I sucked it up just that one time. Yes, please do let me know what you find out.

Aww thank you Alice! See, that would have been really cool if you were there at the same time. Haha, look like your birthday won out.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

A BIRTHDAY-XMAS-2013 X-TRAVAGANZA UPDATE


Hi again friends!!

This is just a quick post in between updates to bring you all up to speed on the upcoming BIRTHDAY-XMAS-2013 X-TRAVAGANZA.

I actually don’t have a lot of concrete plans to share at this point, which is rather strange for me;
I haven’t even worked out what parks for each day yet… at least not entirely.

Disney just finished MyMagic+ testing for AP holders using CM’s as testers, so hopefully that means a Magic Band in my near future.

My guess is that is why FP+ finally just became an option for me, so I may play around with that this weekend.

Certainly I will be doing the regular Disney stuff in addition to all the Christmas specific things like the Osborne Lights, etc.

I just haven’t picked firm dates yet.

Nonetheless, there actually are a few things that I can confirm and share, or this post would be pretty pointless…

The first day (December 4th – BIRTHDAY) I plan to start at either AK or MGM, primarily for some Everest or Tower (or maybe BOTH).

The last part of the day though will for sure be at Magic Kingdom as it’s one of the few nights without a Christmas Party.

That means MSEP and, of course, WISHES!!!!!!

There is NO WAY I am not doing Magic Kingdom and Wishes on my birthday.

NO… WAY!!!

The only other concrete Disney plans I have at this point are, of course, the much anticipated Illuminations Cruise on the 7th (which I just realized should also have the Holiday tag included) with Thread of the Month Winner Brenda AKA emmysmommy, as Jess' DCP report is simply considered in its own class now , and MVMCP on the 10th.

I’m even considering another Christmas Party, but I’m undecided currently on that.

The big new thing I really want to share is, previously I mentioned that I was considering a day trip over to SeaWorld.

I had a long, hard look at what is offered for the

And after looking it all over and doing some reading on it, it has to be done, so on Sunday December 8, I will do just that.

The beauty of it is everything is included in the regular daytime pass, so no special ticket needed,

So I bought a one day SeaWorld ticket from Undercover Tourist that is currently on its way.

I did, however, also book a confirmation directly with SeaWorld for reserved seating at ALL the special Christmas shows.

I don’t know how necessary it will be, if at all, but a lot of the various show times are very close together,

And since I’m only there for the one day, I want to make sure to see it all.

Plus, I expect the reserved seating should at least be good seats if not great.

It cost $29.00, but again, at least it pretty much guarantees me good seats.

I plan to spend the day doing the regular SeaWorld stuff including a reunion with my precious…

Otherwise known as Manta!

Of course I will also spend a good deal of time visiting my Dolphin friends as well, since I LOVE DOLPHINS!!

And who knows what else.

The big thing on the agenda is in the evening for the special Christmas events which are…

O WONDROUS NIGHT

-- Tells the greatest story never told, with more than 30 carols, based upon the Christmas Story and told through the eyes of a variety of live animals.

CLYDE AND SEAMORE’S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

-- Features Santa’s helpers, Clyde and Seamore, who bring their own brand of comedy to Christmas. The loveable sea lions, along with a few mischievous otters, a comical elf, and a wintery walrus or two, search for Santa.

SHAMU CHRISTMAS MIRACLES

-- Thrilling seasonal music rings out as whales soar through the air in a performance that will take the audience on a stirring voyage into the heart of the holidays.

WINTER WONDERLAND ON ICE

-- An ice skating extravaganza where Christmas comes to life through towering water fountains, magnificent fireworks and some of the most talented ice skaters in the world.

I’m not really a huge figure skating fan, but something tells me I might really like this show…

HOLIDAY REFLECTIONS FIREWORKS AND FOUNTAINS FINALE

-- Soaring fountains, dazzling lights, and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites.

Also included is the a conversion of the Wild Arctic simulator into the Polar Express (for which I will have front of the line access),

As well as the Sea Of Trees, which includes more than 100 massive trees, each sparkling, lighted and choreographed to classic holiday tunes, making a dramatic display around SeaWorld’s center lake.

All in all, it looks like a very unique and fun time and should make a great addition to any future Trip Report.

You know I’m doing this all for you… right??!!

Finally, one other thing I get pretty stoked about is new characters in the parks, even ones I'm not yet familiar with.

So absolutely no complaints from me with the addition of Anna and Elsa from Frozen to the Norway pavilion.

So that in a nutshell are my plans, limited though they may be at the current moment.

Hopefully soon I’ll get down to planning out all the days with a little more detail and update here as things progress.

As always, THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH for reading along.

The regular Trip Report will continue soon!
​

 

[courtneybelle]

Oh man oh man oh man that all looks SO exciting! The Illuminations cruise is going to be incredible. The SeaWorld Christmas shows look amazing! And I love the Polar Express. And MANTAAAAAAAA!!!! I miss that beautiful coaster!!

 

[emmysmommy]

I had no idea that Sea World had that much going on for their Christmas pageantry. Me thinks you just might enjoy Babes on Ice... errr.. Winter Wonderland on Ice.

I haven't even logged into My Disney Exerpience so I need to get started on that.

This is exciting to start seeing your plans. I think you need to go for the double-header and do AK for EE and then hop over to MGM for ToT and then end the day with WISHES! Do you fly in that day or the day before? I guess it makes a difference.

 

[teekathepony]

Hoping for a Magic Band for you soon! If FP+ is available then it's looking good.
Even though your plans are not very concrete as of yet, they still sound really good! Everest, ToT AND MK sounds like a heck of a way to spend a birthday!
Wow, all the Seaworld stuff going on looks really awesome! I'd say the reserved seating would be well worth it, especially if you want to see everything in one day.

 

[lovelygirl1975]

Hey Rob, your Dec trip sounds like so much fun. I have never been to SW. It's amazing to me how much fun just planning a vacation is.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Oh man oh man oh man that all looks SO exciting! The Illuminations cruise is going to be incredible. The SeaWorld Christmas shows look amazing! And I love the Polar Express. And MANTAAAAAAAA!!!! I miss that beautiful coaster!!

Ahh Courtney, I think the cruise will be super great too. Plus with that Holiday tag which I kind of remember being REALLY impressive. I'm really curious about the Polar Express since I really don't like the regular simulator. But it does look pretty cool.

AND MANTAAAAAAAA!!!!! I can't wait to reunite with my precious.

I had no idea that Sea World had that much going on for their Christmas pageantry. Me thinks you just might enjoy Babes on Ice... errr.. Winter Wonderland on Ice.

I haven't even logged into My Disney Exerpience so I need to get started on that.

This is exciting to start seeing your plans. I think you need to go for the double-header and do AK for EE and then hop over to MGM for ToT and then end the day with WISHES! Do you fly in that day or the day before? I guess it makes a difference.

Me neither Brenda. I was so surprised when I started doing some reading on it. It looks like they REALLY go all out for Christmas.
yes, I may be able to sit though that somehow.

Definitely. I assume you can reuse the Magic Bands you already have? I had been checking it out periodically as I made sure my hotel res and AP were all linked, but I didn't have FP+ until the last day ot so. Now I have to try to figure out what works best and what days to go where. So much work...

Believe me, that's what I'm considering. Maybe FP Tower since Everest has single rider. But I also thought about getting FP for the Electrical Parade (if available). So many decisions. Who knows if paper FP will still exist. I've heard so many conflicting stories.

I fly in on the 3rd to make sure to be well rested and ready to go bright and early on the 4th.

Hoping for a Magic Band for you soon! If FP+ is available then it's looking good.
Even though your plans are not very concrete as of yet, they still sound really good! Everest, ToT AND MK sounds like a heck of a way to spend a birthday!
Wow, all the Seaworld stuff going on looks really awesome! I'd say the reserved seating would be well worth it, especially if you want to see everything in one day.

Ahhh just checked and guess what??!! The ability to customize my band!!!! Now I have to pick a colour. This shouldn't be so hard, lol. Like you, I have to wait until I get there to get it though.

Ah yes, I thought so too. AND, I just looked and AK has morning magic hours, so I could maybe spend the beginning there riding Everest before switching parks. MK will for sure be the ending though.

I agree, and was REALLY impressed with all the offerings. It looks like they really decorate too!

Hey Rob, your Dec trip sounds like so much fun. I have never been to SW. It's amazing to me how much fun just planning a vacation is.

I hope so Nikia! I really do like SeaWorld, and their Christmas looks spectacular. It is fun, but FP+ does create some challenges. It will be interesting to see how it works out.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Your plans, as much as they are at this point, sound great. And you obviously have to end your birthday with Wishes. Like, if you told me you were not going to do that I would have sent you a message asking if you were ok

The Seaworld Holiday event/party sound super fun - and it is great that it is part of their regular entrance fee and not a separate ticket - that is why I haven't pulled the trigger on the Disney parties - with my kids as young as they are I just can't justify the (relatively high) cost of a separate ticket on top if the regular ticket

Have fun planning with FP+ !!!

 

[katt789]

YOU'RE GOING TO GET TO MEET ANNA AND ELSA BEFORE ME AND I AM GOING TO DIE BECAUSE OF THAT!!! Do say hello for me...pretty pleeeeeeaaaaasssee

your holiday plans sound like a blast! i had no idea there was so much to do at seaworld, I really need to get over there sometime!

 

[khaleesi]

Wow, the SeaWorld Christmas stuff sounds absolutely amazing!!! I adore Christmas and I cannot wait to see pictures of all that awesomeness!!!

 

[Queenofallthings]

Wow wow and what the heck, WOW!! I cannot believe everything SW has to offer over Christmas!! Times sure have changed there since our last visit in '05!

Dolphins, my girl loves her dolphins too! We did the dolphin swim at Discovery Cove in '02 and when it came to Shanleigh's turn to be one on one with the dolphin it brought me to tears! He was playing with her (not at all what the trainer was asking of him LOL) and didn't want anything to do with anyone other than her....it was such a magical moment! Sorry, just felt the need to share that with you!

Your plans are shaping up and I can't wait to hear all the nitty gritty!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Your plans, as much as they are at this point, sound great. And you obviously have to end your birthday with Wishes. Like, if you told me you were not going to do that I would have sent you a message asking if you were ok

The Seaworld Holiday event/party sound super fun - and it is great that it is part of their regular entrance fee and not a separate ticket - that is why I haven't pulled the trigger on the Disney parties - with my kids as young as they are I just can't justify the (relatively high) cost of a separate ticket on top if the regular ticket

Have fun planning with FP+ !!!

Thanks Phil. Oh the ending of that day is a no-brainer. There's no way that won't be the plan.

It's pretty impressive for sure. I guess this is a way to compete as they don't really have the pull that a Disney does for separate ticket events.
Yeah, with younger children I can see it being less than a great value for the Disney parties. You either wear everyone out using a regular ticket during the day (plus the added expense for the night), or you have one less park day and only use the party ticket that day. Either way it's still a late night.

Haha, thanks. Just too many decisions!!

YOU'RE GOING TO GET TO MEET ANNA AND ELSA BEFORE ME AND I AM GOING TO DIE BECAUSE OF THAT!!! Do say hello for me...pretty pleeeeeeaaaaasssee

your holiday plans sound like a blast! i had no idea there was so much to do at seaworld, I really need to get over there sometime!

Bahahaha, YES!!! I will ABSOLUTELY say hello for you Katt!!! Hmmm, maybe I can come up with something special.

I was really shocked when I read up on the SeaWorld Xmas. It was just a "maybe" before I saw that. But they seem to really go all out.

Wow, the SeaWorld Christmas stuff sounds absolutely amazing!!! I adore Christmas and I cannot wait to see pictures of all that awesomeness!!!

I was REALLY surprised by it all. I'm really looking forward to it. Hopefully I'll be able to get some good photos.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Wow wow and what the heck, WOW!! I cannot believe everything SW has to offer over Christmas!! Times sure have changed there since our last visit in '05!

Dolphins, my girl loves her dolphins too! We did the dolphin swim at Discovery Cove in '02 and when it came to Shanleigh's turn to be one on one with the dolphin it brought me to tears! He was playing with her (not at all what the trainer was asking of him LOL) and didn't want anything to do with anyone other than her....it was such a magical moment! Sorry, just felt the need to share that with you!

Your plans are shaping up and I can't wait to hear all the nitty gritty!

I know!!!! They're really stepping up. It's so tough to compete with Disney and now Universal that it looks like SeaWorld wants in the game. It for sure looks great. I can't wait to see for myself.

OMG Jacquie, I LOVE that story. To see your little girl (at the time, though I know she'll always be your little girl) having that kind of experience, I'd be in tears too. I hope she remembers it, though I'm sure she does. I just so love dophins. Just magnificent, beautiful creatures.

Thanks Jacquie!! FP+ definitely adds a new wrinkle to planning.

 

[IheartDDuck]

Haha! Love that homemade Canada shirt for Epcot. And there is NO shame in busting the Crocs out man. No shame. We don't judge. At least not to your face.

Test Track has also never been one of my favorites. I honestly don't even need to ride it every trip. Sacrilege to some, I know. But I can take it or leave it. If I'm in Epcot....well, I'd rather do other things. Like, you know, drink.....

Nice plans for your holiday / birthday trip! I'm hoping they open FP+ for us too when the AP testing is opened and complete.

 

[missangelalexis]

Your holiday trip plans sound so fun!! Wishes on your birthday sounds perfect! And wow, SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration sounds great, I had no idea they did that!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Haha! Love that homemade Canada shirt for Epcot. And there is NO shame in busting the Crocs out man. No shame. We don't judge. At least not to your face.

Test Track has also never been one of my favorites. I honestly don't even need to ride it every trip. Sacrilege to some, I know. But I can take it or leave it. If I'm in Epcot....well, I'd rather do other things. Like, you know, drink.....

Nice plans for your holiday / birthday trip! I'm hoping they open FP+ for us too when the AP testing is opened and complete.

Ha, thanks Dani. You know you're right about the crocs. They are comfy AND mine are pretty darn stylish!

I don't think it's sacrilege at all. Different strokes for different folks, ya know. Bahaha, Drunk Little Cucumber.

Thank you and I think the AP testing is done. Right after I posted that little travel update, there on MyDisneyExperience was the option to customize my Magic band and pick FP+. So I think you'll be good to go.

Your holiday trip plans sound so fun!! Wishes on your birthday sounds perfect! And wow, SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration sounds great, I had no idea they did that!

I'm really hoping so Alexis. Of course Wishes on that day is an absolute must!! I can't even imagine doing anything else. And you're so right, The SeaWorld Christmas is pretty darn impressive. I really hope it's as good in person!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

SPHERES, FLOWERS, AND GARDENS… AND A CM IN EVERY PORT!
Day 6 – May 2, 2013 Part 2



Just a really quick note before the next update.

Right after I posted the December trip update, I went on MyDisneyExperience and I’m now able to customize my Magic Band.
I’ve narrowed it down to Blue or Orange, but haven’t chosen yet.
I’m leaning towards Orange, but just can’t make up my mind, so I’m curious as to everyone’s opinion.
What would your vote be?
And, your vote may or may not influence the final outcome... Just like a real election!

ALSO... TALKING MICKEY MOUSE!!!!! IS NOW MEETING GUESTS AT MAGIC KINGDOM!!!!!


***********************************************

After Test Track, some topiaries, and The Seas, it was now time for Soarin’.

In 2009, my father absolutely fell in love with this ride, so I always think of him when riding.

Whenever I or someone else mentions to him a Disney trip, his only question is “Did they (you) go on Soarin’?”

Everything else is irrelevant.

I hustled back over to The Land, down the stairs, and on towards the Fastpass return queue.

Side note… Why does Disney force us to climb the Everest like hill into The Land only to then have us go downstairs once inside?

Another side note… I swear I will never understand all the people heading into the Stand-By Entrance.

It says 70 minutes people!!!!!!! And that’s short for this ride.

Pssst, I have an apparently well kept secret. Over on your right… you too can get a spiffy little Fastpass.

Actually, you know what, I should really stop that.

I’ve been known to yell at the TV whenever Stacey explains Fastpass, shouting,

“STACEY!! STOP TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT FASTPASS!!!!…
um… Sweet-Heart… Sweetie-Pie… Princess…
I'M PERFECTLY HAPPY TO HAVE THE IGNORANT MASSES OCCUPYING THE STAND-BY LINE LEAVING MORE FASTPASSES FOR THE REST OF US!!!!

Also… I Love You!”

Stacey talks about it; The park maps talk about it; And yet, I still can’t help but shake my head when I actually see this.

If DVC is somehow still “Disney’s Best Kept Secret”, then FastPass must apparently be equivalent to Area 51.

Honestly, if people can’t get this concept, then FP+ is going to be VERY interesting.

Anyway…

I grabbed another Fastpass before entering the queue.

THANK YOU for your complete and utter ignorance people!!!!!! See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya!!
(yes, I'm 5)

Before long I was stationed in my spot, which incidentally was B-1… i.e. the BEST SPOT aka first row middle.

I then patiently awaited my instructions courtesy of everyone’s favourite flight attendant Puddy… I mean Patrick.

Remove those ears dude!

“Nice work Pal!”

I’m usually alone in this, but I ALWAYS burst out laughing at that line. Patrick’s deadpan style just cracks me up.

This is easily one of my favourite pre-ride videos, and no matter how often I’ve seen it, it always brings me joy.

Sufficiently informed, we were brought in to our waiting seats and before we knew it, we were in the air.

I… Love… Soarin’! I’ve never done it where people didn’t applaud at the end.

Yes, the print is getting worn, and Yes, sometimes the smells don’t work, and YES, an updated film would be nice.

But my GAWD, there is just nothing like it anywhere.

I’m also a HUGE fan of the “simultaneous seatbelt unbuckle click”.

You know what I’m talking about, and it never fails to elicit a chuckle from me.

And thank you for letting me Soar.

It was just a tad early for lunch, but knowing I would be going to Sunshine Seasons, I jumped onto Living with The Land since it’s right there.

I think this ride is somewhat underrated, though many on the DIS do seem to like it, and rightly so.

Plus… Hidden Mickeys!!

By the time our boat docked, I was ready for lunch.

As mentioned, I was dining here.

This is one of my very favorite CS spots on property, offering a lot of healthier options than the standard fare.

It’s just a nice change.

I decided on the Sweet n Sour Chicken, which was very different in that there was no batter at all,

And a Strawberry Shortcake for dessert.

Strawberry Shortcake is a serious passion of mine; It’s like a perfect food.

I long for the day when we will be able to plant and grow Strawberry Shortcake. Get on that Epcot!!!

I remember a Florida trip back when I was a kid down in Tampa, where a particular restaurant offered All-You-Can-Eat Strawberry Shortcake.

I’m pretty sure that after we left, they probably never offered that ever again.

They for sure lost money that day.

After my delish lunch, I headed outside and decided to do something I had only ever done once, and that once was a long time ago.

Surprisingly, there was no line.

The only thing I really remembered was the Monty Python moon, which frankly is kinda creepy, but awesome at the same time.

OK, yes it’s cute, but I think it will be a while before I return.

After wandering a bit and checking out Mouse Gears, I headed back to the Land to use my second Soarin’ Fastpass.

I was again seated in B-1 (sa-weet), and again had an amazing ride, and once again chuckled at the simultaneous seatbelt unbuckle click.

I grabbed yet another Fastpass for later,

Before heading out to spend some quality time in the World Showcase… and to embark on a sequel adventure…

One that I’m determined is going to catch on and even surpass “Drinking Around the World.”



TO BE CONTINUED…
​

 

[missangelalexis]

Living with the Land is definitely underrated! I am quite a fan of it! Yay for Soarin and having a FP to ride it again!

 

[Tracy161]

I’m usually alone in this, but I ALWAYS burst out laughing at that line. Patrick’s deadpan style just cracks me up.

I'm with ya, completely, Rob! And the simultaneous seat-belt thing... priceless.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Fully agree with you regarding fastpasses - only issue is when they are all gone like they were well before noon both days we went to EPCOT this trip.

Actually saw a funny one on Jungle Cruise in that the fast pass return time was sooner than the standby line would have gotten you to the ride. Um, what?

And Living With the Land is one of our favority. My favorite hidden Mickey on the ride is the hops plant in the shape of a Mickey head