4 Parks + 5 Staples in the Baby's Head = 9 Magical Days!! (9/17 The Last Hurrah!)

[thecapells]

With some hugs and waves, we separated for our big experiment.
The morning split was fun but it was only half an hour.
This would be much more time and even include meals.
So, off we went!

The girls drifted out of site as I strapped X into the stroller (and even let DS ride as well).
It was time to PAARRRTY!!

So, what does one do in Magic Kingdom with a trio of young boys?
That’s a no-brainer. Blast off into the future, of course!
We headed straight into Tomorrowland to grab a FastPass for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.
I figured we’d then get a bite to eat and come back.
However, and I’ll say it again, it dumbfounds me how people don’t utilize FastPass.
I get to “Dad’s Magic Secret Entrance Machine” (that was my explanation to DS) and noticed the entry time was 12:55.
I checked my watch – 12:50.
Anyone else see the possibilities here?
I grabbed the fastpasses and headed over to stroller parking.
After we got everything settled, we walked right past a full line of patrons in stand-by and right up to Mr. Buzz himself.

We then loaded X and DS into our Space Ranger Cruisers and headed off.
X wasn’t too happy:

But this is DS’ favorite ride in the Magic Kingdom (and WAS his favorite in all of WDW before Soarin’).
Can you tell from this picture?

I had read up on some of the easter eggs and bonus points, so I tried to call out to DS throughout the ride and tell him what to shoot.
His aim was a bit off but he was only 6. So, needless to say, I beat him badly.

On the way out, we checked our pictures and the CM explained if you angle your camera just right without the flash, you can take a picture of the screen.
I tried and got this – a bit blurry but not bad considering…

Grumpy and on the verge of tears because he “lost”, DS was melting
We had a talk about practicing to get better and how Dad has been playing video games since before DS was born.
I even suggested that maybe we can do it again.
His eyes lit up instantly and he even was willing to pose next to Booster from the Buzz Lightyear of Star Command series.

He wouldn’t, however, pose with the Evil Emperor Zurg but I had to take a picture anyway.

We headed out, around the corner, and over to the fastpass machines.
Fastpass time: 1:05. Watch check: 1:02.
We grabbed our passes and headed right back into the line.
Once again, we bypassed a full line of stand-by riders.
I just don’t understand…

This time I had DS take a picture with the cool Martian background:

Once again, we had fun and DS did much better and listened carefully to what I told him to shoot at.
Every once and a while, X would spin us randomly and I had to counter but it made for a more fun experience.
Over by the batteries and the spinning wheel of “Z’s”, the ride stopped.
We noticed that in the cruiser behind us was a CM holding a long stick with a gripper at the end.
Apparently, every once and a while, he comes through and cleans up anything that was dropped.
He gave us some pointers at what to shoot for throughout the ride and we both beat our scores from last time by a lot!
However, I still won. Let the drama commence.

I told DS that we wouldn’t do this ever again if this was his reaction each time and he got over it quicker this time.
I also realized there might be a blood sugar issue by this point so it was definitely time for lunch.

I strapped X into the stroller and we headed off towards Main Street for a quick guy’s lunch in the bleachers!
Get your scorecard out and come join us!!

 

[DisneyMom5]

However, and I’ll say it again, it dumbfounds me how people don’t utilize FastPass.
I get to “Dad’s Magic Secret Entrance Machine” (that was my explanation to DS) and noticed the entry time was 12:55.
I checked my watch – 12:50.
Anyone else see the possibilities here?
I grabbed the fastpasses and headed over to stroller parking.

That's amazing! I've never seen fast pass return times so quick! That means absolutley no one was getting fast passes.
Love the "Dad's Magic Secret Entrace Machine."

Enjoying the report, as always!

 

[BevMacKenz]

After bugging you all day...I've finished it...and I have even logged on, so I can subscribe.

 

[thecapells]

After bugging you all day...I've finished it...and I have even logged on, so I can subscribe.

Welcome aboard Bev!
Now I really better write some more...

 

[thecapells]

I’ve always wanted to try Casey’s Corner and I thought it would be perfect for our “Guy’s Adventure!”
We arrived on Main Street and DS informed me that X was asleep.
So I wheeled the stroller into Casey’s and ordered two hot dog combo’s.
I paid and then pushed the stroller over near the toppings bar and went back for the food.
After loading up on ketchup, sauerkraut, relish, and cheese sauce (mmmmmm ) for both the fries and my dog,
I tried to get creative about how to move us all to the seating area.
Luckily, a friendly CM approached and offered to take our food.
I grabbed the drinks and the stroller and we rolled over the bleachers.
Gotta love Disney CM’s!!

I’ve never been to Casey’s before and this bleacher section was great!
It was nicely themed as a baseball stadium of sorts and the “field” was a large screen television airing old sports cartoons with Mickey and the gang.
We watched everything from Goofy Golf to baseball to football to skiing.
DS was having a blast hanging out in the bleachers:

And why not?
Hot dogs, cartoons, and the guys – what a combination!!
I had to a have pic of the “boyz” so I asked one of the “bleacher bums” to help out - too bad DS didn't take his eyes of the cartoons!

And we can’t forget Sir Sleeps A lot:

All in all, Casey’s was a fun experience.
The hot dogs were really good and the new whole grain buns weren’t horrible – especially with melted cheese all over them.
The prices were cheap – so much so that I opted to charge it to the room rather than use a Dining Plan Credit.
The Grand Slam All Beef ¼ lb. Hot Dog comes with the dog, free topping bar, and French fries – all for only $5.79.
And I used 2 snack credits for the soft drinks.

It was just fun to hang out in the bleachers and watch some old Disney clips.
I will definitely do this one again – probably when I head back for my convention in May.
It’s a perfect quick, cheap, and easy location.

Anyway, around 1:30/1:45, I figured we should head out.
We first stopped at the nearest restrooms for an interesting experience.
Since I had to use the restroom as well, I had to veer the double stroller in and around all the corners and then park it for the duration.
Very odd experience but we were fortunate that the restrooms over by Casey’s had large door openings.

And finally, we were ready for more adventures.
Next up was DS’ big surprise for the day (to hopefully offset some of DD’s activities).
If you recall, our Fairy Godmailer sent DS a postcard from Jack Sparrow before we left saying that Jack couldn’t wait to meet DS.
Well, now was the time (although I didn’t tell DS that yet).
I told DS to ride in the stroller (since he doesn’t usually get to ride with his sister around and this way I could walk faster).
He grabbed his Sprite and hopped in - he was thrilled to have a grown-up sized drink and how he was just one of the guys and not a kid.
And off we went towards Adventure! Adventureland that is!!

 

[kafitty]

mmmm...hot dogs...is it sad that i drool over processed meat and real meat fairly equally? especially when doused with ketchup, mustard, and sauerkraut...mmmmmmm.

 

[dtr_angel]

still loving your trip report! We just got back on the 22nd so I'm very depressed to be back home in 40 degree weather, lol. I was about to eat a PB&J but your post about Casey's made me change my mind. We ate there last June and it was very good. We had too many other CS places we wanted to try so we didn't eat there this trip. Cheese sauce FTW!

 

[MagicShell]

I am caught up. It is hard to carry a food tray with a stroller, isn't it? I am glad you got some help with that.

My son can't stand to loose either. He thinks he should always win. I don't understand about people not using Fast Pass either. We certainly do use it.

Congratulations on your upcoming trips!

 

[All7OfUs]

Well, you can't escape your fans- even when they're in Dubai instead of Kazakhstan Caseys gets a 2 thumbs up from our family every time. We voted it "most fun" eatery that deserves "tradition" status. Good cheap food, what can be better?

HA! The bathroom "adventure" was very funny! I can picture all of the other guys snickering, and all the nearby moms laughing even harder at you behind your back! We moms have to do that stuff every day!

From a very odd place...All7OfUs

 

[thecapells]

Well, you can't escape your fans- even when they're in Dubai instead of Kazakhstan Caseys gets a 2 thumbs up from our family every time. We voted it "most fun" eatery that deserves "tradition" status. Good cheap food, what can be better?

HA! The bathroom "adventure" was very funny! I can picture all of the other guys snickering, and all the nearby moms laughing even harder at you behind your back! We moms have to do that stuff every day!

From a very odd place...All7OfUs

Yeah, my bathroom "adventure" definitely makes me think of what Mom goes through in random places.
And I think the other Dads in the bathroom were quite confused.

As for Casey's, I'll definitely head back when I hit the World for my convention.

Have fun in Dubai!!

 

[John Paul]

Hey Mr. Capell,
Just where in DTD? did you get the light sabres made? My two boys want to do this! TY
JP

 

[thecapells]

Hey Mr. Capell,
Just where in DTD? did you get the light sabres made? My two boys want to do this! TY
JP

Hey there! Welcome aboard!
The lightsabers can be made in Tatooine Traders in Disney Hollywood Studios or in Once Upon a Toy at Downtown Disney.
We chose Downtown Disney so we didn't have to lug them around the park.
It's also less crowded in Once Upon a Toy.
Hope that helps!
And, for what it's worth, we still love our sabers!!!
Oh, and make sure a CM checks it to verify that you got all your pieces.
I didn't realize I was allowed a couple of things and the CM added them for me when I checked out.

 

[*DisMom*]

I am finally caught up on your TR. I had to stop reading awhile back, but now i am back!! love it, love it, love it. y'all seem to be having such a great time. i miss my home away from home and cannot wait to go back...too long!!!!

 

[thecapells]

I am finally caught up on your TR. I had to stop reading awhile back, but now i am back!! love it, love it, love it. y'all seem to be having such a great time. i miss my home away from home and cannot wait to go back...too long!!!!

Welcome back and glad you are enjoying yourself.
The fun stuff is about to begin!

 

[John Paul]

Hey there! Welcome aboard!
The lightsabers can be made in Tatooine Traders in Disney Hollywood Studios or in Once Upon a Toy at Downtown Disney.
We chose Downtown Disney so we didn't have to lug them around the park.
It's also less crowded in Once Upon a Toy.
Hope that helps!
And, for what it's worth, we still love our sabers!!!
Oh, and make sure a CM checks it to verify that you got all your pieces.
I didn't realize I was allowed a couple of things and the CM added them for me when I checked out.

Thank you so much...great trip report!!! I to do most of the planning not very good on reporting on our trips. Maybe I will try this year.

 

[thecapells]

Ahoy matey!
The lads and I took off in search of adventure on the High Seas
I was sailing our stroller at full sail with DS giggling and X snoozing.
It was about 1:50 and I had to be in the Carribbean by 2:15 so we were having fun.
Finally, we docked in Tortuga (the Pirates of the Carribbean for those not in the spirit) and I began searching for the entertainment.
I heard tell of the Pirate Tutorial but had no idea of whereabout the scoundrels would appear.
I discovered what looked like a stage but it didn't seem right.
By the POTC gift shop, I asked the photographer and he suggested the Frontierland entrance.
So, first we posed with the original Captain for probably my favorite picture of the week:

Then we headed over to Frontierland but, alas, me hearties, we found nothing.
Another kind stranger (CM) pointed us back to Carribbean Plaza.
That CM in turn pointed us towards the other end of POTC.
Finally we found a CM who directed us around the corner of POTC.
This looked more appropriate although I noticed a large group of scalywags with orange shirts loitering in the area.
I wanted to make sure my little buccaneer saw the show and the large crowd worried me a bit.
However, the fates were on me side as the crowd dispersed right before the show.
A pirate named Mac wandered out and laid down a rope which noone was allowed to cross.

DS and I sat directly behind it with X sleeping in the stroller next to us.
Mac went on to pick several “helpers” and I urged DS to volunteer which he did finally but not very emotionally and too late.
Too bad as I thought he’d have an advantage with his Pirate shirt on.
Mac completed setting up his area and then began to talk about the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow.
Mac was apparently a member of Captain Jack’s crew and had lots of stories to tell.
In the middle of one, a lone figure wandered in the mix behind Mac and then tiptoed up to the wheelbarrow-contraption.

ARGH! it was Captain Jack himself.
The crowd started laughing and pointing as Jack settled in to watch his first mate.

Mac finally whirled around to see his Captain and played the part of surprise rather well.

Sparrow then hopped down and took over the tall tale.

He looked and acted the part as I doubt DS could tell that this was not, in fact, Johnny Depp.
He swayed and he moved as if really drunk and accented his words a la Depp.
He talked a bit about the Pirate Code as everyone was now crowded around.
Jack definitely draws more of a crowd than some random pirate named Mac.
And that’s even considering how Mac bellowed to all of the Carribbean to come and see the show.

At this point, X stirred and woke up so I unstrapped him and help him up to watch the show.
Jack was just starting to explain how to fight.
1) Lunge left with your sword
2) Lunge right with your sword
3) Point to the sky and exclaim “Look, the Governor’s Daughter!!”
4) While your opponent is distracted, run away
Jack explained how pirates are smart enough to realize when they can’t win a fight and they are better off running away to steal and plunder another day!

Mac brought up his 4 volunteers as this point and they ran through Jack’s Pirate Training Steps with provided practice swords.
Mac defended nicely and played his part well and little buccaneers tried their hardest as Jack shouted directions.
Jack himself fought the 4th volunteer to the delight of the crowd and everyone laughed.

Jack then called all the remaining children to come up and join his crew.
DS needed lots of encouraging but I finally got him to join the rest of the kids.

He was handed a parchment scroll and told to raise it above his head.

Jack then recited the Pirate Oath and made the junior pirates repeat after him.
Once completed, he declared them all honorary pirates and members of his crew.
He would sail with any of them given how trustworthy they all were.

Next, Mac and Jack broke into song and what song would that be?
Do you really have to ask?
Click on the video to hear the end of the song and the finale to the show.


Good to his word, the Captain showed off his training and disappeared.
This was true to character and made for a nice exit but I imagine many were disappointed not to get pics or autographs with him.
DS was a bit confused and wasn’t sure what to think but I thought it was a great show.
Afterwards he spoke highly of the show so I guess it just needed to sink in –
most likely he was still a bit embarrassed by having to stand up there.

And, for the record, here’s the Pirate Certificate that DS was awarded for his troubles.
It’s pretty cool if you ask me (maybe I can join the crew next time!!) Savvy?

So now, with my only “scheduled” guy event completed, we were on our own.
Everyone was awake and rarin’ to go so I thought some music may be in order.
Come West with us into the Great Frontier for a spirited (and furry) jamboree!

 

[DisneyMom5]

It IS a fun show, isn't it! My kids loved it. Good thinking to take the boys over for that.

 

[Happy Elf]

What a great pirate show! I'll add that to the list of things I would like to see. Can't wait to hear more!

 

[thecapells]

It IS a fun show, isn't it! My kids loved it. Good thinking to take the boys over for that.

Yeah, I figured it was the perfect excursion for DS as he was getting pretty jealous of all the princess stuff and attention DD had been getting.
Baseball, Cartoons, and Pirates. Talk about a boy's adventure!
And we're not done yet...

 

[MagicShell]

I'm glad your guy's adventure is going well. We have never seen the Pirate show but it sounds like something fun to do.