A Christmas Quickie...*COMPLETE PG 8*

[2xcited2sleep]

So back to the lobby I went. I know. You may be screaming at your computer, “how can she not be heading to the parks??” But, honestly, it was rainy and cold ( I was still in my New England clothes – tried to put on my flip flops and put my socks back on!), I am lucky enough to visit often enough that I don’t feel the pressure to fit everything in.

So me, my book, and my glass of wine got comfy again. It was easy to do in this lobby with such a view. I got up close and personal with the totem pole… both with and without the flash…

Someone… I think it was MeMom… said you could stomach as many WL lobby pics as I could post. About to test that theory…

Close up of tree ornaments

The front desk… I love mission style lamps!

I made sure to rub Humphrey’s nose for luck… I can use all the luck I can get!

Window shopping

Inside the store I was surprised to find 2010 merchandise….the end of the year has snuck up on me… I’m not ready!!!!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Some more lobby sights:

At some point I got hungry and made my way to the Territory Lounge

Keeping in theme with the whole resort, it was dark in there! Too dark to read my book so I made some TR notes and basically just people-watched. I had pulled pork flatbread and I think it was the best thing I ate for the whole trip! Unfortunately I did not get a food porn pic.

After my yummy dinner, I explored the lodge at night

When I went back inside the lobby I sat for a little bit and watched the Christmas cards in progress. Photopass sets up in front of the tree and I could tell there were some beautiful pictures being taken. I thought about taking pics but ultimately didn’t think it was appropriate to take and post pictures of other peoples’ kids. But I did see a princess in full costume getting her picture taken, a brother and sister in matching red plaid pajamas and what I presume was a single dad posing with his three kids all piled on top of him all in front of the tree. I wish I could have signed up to receive those cards!

Up next: the much awaited Marty Sklar seminar

 

[onelilspark]

She doesn't look like she's having a nice time...

 

[kschafer]

The front desk… I love mission style lamps!

I can't say exactly why but I love the picture of the garlands strung on the railings!

I don't have LL's love of light fixtures but I do LOVE the whole craftsman/mission/arts & crafts design. On my "if I ever win the lottery" list is to hire an architect to build my own custom built home in this style (I think I will add in a porch with garland a la the WL!)

 

[luv2travell]

wow!! very nice thak you for sharing the pic

 

[2xcited2sleep]

She doesn't look like she's having a nice time...

You're right! I hadn't noticed but she seems to be sporting quite the 'tude!

I can't say exactly why but I love the picture of the garlands strung on the railings!

I don't have LL's love of light fixtures but I do LOVE the whole craftsman/mission/arts & crafts design. On my "if I ever win the lottery" list is to hire an architect to build my own custom built home in this style (I think I will add in a porch with garland a la the WL!)

I think I need an "if I ever win the lottery list!" I would love a home in this style too. I'd just need more lamps to be able to read. The lodge is DARK!!

wow!! very nice thak you for sharing the pic

My pleasure. I'm glad you're enjoying them!

 

[manntra]

Hi Christine! Love all of your pictures! Keep em coming! My bedroom is mission style so I do appreciate the lights too. The lobby is beautiful with all of the decorations and a perfect place for a book and some wine.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

We were asked to report to the Dolphin hotel by 8:30am for the seminar. Setting the alarm on vacation is not usually something I allow but for Marty Sklar, I made an exception! I was nervous about transportation so decided just to take a cab. It was ~$25 including tip and worked really well.

I’d never been inside the Dolphin and wasn’t sure what to expect. I have to be honest. I wasn’t wild about the tree. It was made of poinsettia plants… that was pretty cool but I think it was just too modern/art deco for my taste.

We were asked not to take pictures in the seminars but I can share with you the couple of funny stories I remember. First up was Lee Cockerell who has a new book, Creating Magic, and was VP, Operations at Disney World. His son, is currently the Vice President of Epcot. His presentation and book were about leadership strategies that worked at Disney World but could really be employed in any area of your life including parenting. I thought he was very engaging and personable. Some of his stories:

Why is WDW the happiest place on earth? Because it is the happiest place on earth OR ELSE. Meaning that very clear expectations are set with the cast members for what behavior is expected.

He talked a bit about the crisis command center and how it is better outfitted than just about anything you’ve ever seen. In fact he joked that if, god forbid, another “situation” were to emerge be it a hurricane or anything else, we might want to think about getting down to WDW and checking in. He referred specifically to 9/11 and also mentioned there was once a hostage situation at Yacht & Beach Club!

I really liked his primary message which was that you have to treat everyone with respect and remember that we all have the ability to influence someone's life every day with simple kindness. That and "just do your best" everyday. Words to live by!

After Lee spoke we had a 45 min break. As we were heading down the escalator to try to find some snacks, who was coming up the escalator but Marty Sklar himself! Missy was brave and told him that we would be coming to see him and were excited for his presentation. He seemed very appreciative if not still a little amazed that people recognize him.

Marty’s presentation consisted of playing a variety of video clips (including the last video Walt made before his death) and then he’d comment a bit on what we had watched. It was cute, he’d smile as he watched – especially when Walt was on the screen. Can you imagine the memories he has??

He shared that Walt used to like to go off-script in the videos. He showed one where John Hench was showing Walt a model of a restaurant and also there was one of the VIP guides. Walt ad-libbed and teased John, “do you know her?” And then said to the camera something like “he sure gets around!”

Marty also did a Q&A session where we learned a lot. His favorite rides are It’s a Small World (for the overall message of peace) and Space Mountain.

He said he’d never ever asked himself “what would Walt do?” or “what would Walt think?” He said he was and continues to be asked that a lot but that he thought that it was important to move forward and that while Walt’s ideas and messages could be guides they weren’t blueprints.

He mentioned how after Walt died Imagineering was in real “trouble” and it wasn’t felt like the new bosses understood the mission of Imagineering. Marty explained that this was because they had never set foot in the Imagineering building… because they hadn’t been allowed! It was Walt’s place, he explained.

I’m sure there were many, many more tidbits but this TR is titled A Christmas Quickie so I’d best move this along! For more check out the DIS blog that has a great article on Marty.

After the seminar it was finally time to hit the parks! And I was off to Epcot via my beloved private entrance. Heather and Missy would be meeting me shortly over in Mexico for lunch. It was, unfortunately, still rather grey and cool out. But thankfully not raining!

This view of the Yacht Club always catches my eye. I saw a wedding here last year. Lovely!

Of course, since I was passing right by, I couldn’t resist popping home to check in…

This year there were some new additions. How cute are Chip and Dale?

I just love the Beach theme. Can’t wait to stay here again in October!

More Beach Club pictures coming later in the day… turns out I’ll need a spot to warm up!

Met a friend walking over to my private entrance (also known as the International Gateway)

And speaking of my entrance… there sure were a lot more people using it this time. You guys aren’t telling everyone about it are you?

First stop… who wants to guess?

Breaking news from the champagne stand… they were using a digital picture frame to highlight drink specials including the French cosmo from F&W and also a pomegranate kir.

Next I ran over to the American Adventure pavilion because I had heard that artist Jim Shore was there signing his figurines. He was indeed there and had quite a line. I almost got one but then held myself back- sometimes I get caught up in the moment and I really don’t need a figurine as cute as they are.

Andy Garcia would be narrating the Candlelight Processional later that night… I adore him!

It was then time to meet Heather and Missy for lunch! YUM!

A quick photo on my way over. So nice to be back in World Showcase… definitely my favorite place in the World!

Feliz Navidad! I love this pavilion!!! Even more so with Christmas lights!

I only took a couple of food photos but lunch was delicious. First of all, I am pleased to report that the chips and salsa are much better! No more Tostitos pureed (sp?) salsa- now it is warm chips and a fresh chopped salsa.

We also got a side of guacamole and the crab tostadas for an appetizer. These were as good as I remembered from the tequila tasting in Sept. For my entrée (yes, I was eating like a piglet!) I had the enchiladas verdes. SO yummy.

I think, I hope, that Heather and Missy enjoyed lunch as much as I did. Yummy food and great conversation. Missy had actually never been in the pavilion at all before!

Up next: wandering around the World

 

[luckylady]

Wonderful pictures. Haveing stayed at WL,BC,AKL and Polly and I think it's a tie between Polly and WL as my favorite. I enjoy loking at all the Christmas decorations they are beautiful. And the food ....yum.

 

[Charleston Princess]

All of your photos of the Wilderness Lodge are just lovely. You really captured the beauty of it! I love all the Marty Sklar stories -- how neat to be able to listen to him!

World Showcase is so gorgeous with its Christmas decorations!

 

[cdotla]

Hmmmm....after hearing all the bad reviews of San Angel I had written the place off. But those pics look mighty appetizing. And I certainly trust your judgment Christine as we seem to like so many of the same things! So I may have to give that one a try!

A little secret of mine is that I actually *like* the Mexico counter service! So sometimes it pays to throw caution and poor restaurant reviews to the side and stake out on your own!

As for the Lee Cockerell/Marty Sklar event, was there much mixing and mingling with the other Dissers? And was this where they taped the podcast from? I haven't yet listened to it as I have the Christmas music on Sirius going 24-7 these days!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I didn't go this year but did go last year... have a super trip. Can't wait to hear all about it!!

Night vision

So, so pretty! I'm excited to see what Kidani looks like too - I haven't searched for any pictures yet...I just might resist and be surprised!

Wonderful WL shots! I really like this one of the totem pole, such beautiful detail.

and what I presume was a single dad posing with his three kids all piled on top of him all in front of the tree. I wish I could have signed up to receive those cards!

In your WL shot you can really see the "Bear Face", very cool!

And I find it cute that the Dad had his kids pile on top of him for the picture! I bet that made a really great card.

The seminar sounded amazing!!!! I am so far behind on Podcasts, but I think I should just skip ahead and hear their report of it all. You said there was a blog too on Marty? I must have missed that one...gotta find it!

I found it really interesting that he said Walt's ideas are guidelines, not blueprints. I figured they were always thinking "What would Walt do?" Makes sense though-times are much different now, they have to cater to today's world to keep current....

I am very happy to read a positive review of the Mexico TS! I read somewhere that it changed, and your update was proof positive! Those chips and salsa look delicious. I really hope they have changed for the good! YUM!

 

[MeMom]

You got a great 'capture' of the bear face at Wilderness Lodge!

The Beach Club tree is cool. I very much want to stay there someday!

I would love to hear more stories from the seminars. I know that was fascinating.

The World Showcase pictures are great. The lights in Mexico add to the festive atmosphere.

I'm going to be taking about ten thousand pictures next week. There is so much to see, and I want to keep it all to see again and again!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Hi Christine! Love all of your pictures! Keep em coming! My bedroom is mission style so I do appreciate the lights too. The lobby is beautiful with all of the decorations and a perfect place for a book and some wine.

Your bedroom sounds pretty. I really like the mission style. And yes, it was absolutely the perfect setting for a rainy, cold day!

Wonderful pictures. Haveing stayed at WL,BC,AKL and Polly and I think it's a tie between Polly and WL as my favorite. I enjoy loking at all the Christmas decorations they are beautiful. And the food ....yum.

I haven't stayed at the Polynesian yet... maybe that is next on my list! I've heard only rave reviews from there!

All of your photos of the Wilderness Lodge are just lovely. You really captured the beauty of it! I love all the Marty Sklar stories -- how neat to be able to listen to him!

World Showcase is so gorgeous with its Christmas decorations!

Makes one think about visiting at Christmas... It really is a magical time of year to visit - despite the unpredictable weather.

Hmmmm....after hearing all the bad reviews of San Angel I had written the place off. But those pics look mighty appetizing. And I certainly trust your judgment Christine as we seem to like so many of the same things! So I may have to give that one a try!

A little secret of mine is that I actually *like* the Mexico counter service! So sometimes it pays to throw caution and poor restaurant reviews to the side and stake out on your own!

As for the Lee Cockerell/Marty Sklar event, was there much mixing and mingling with the other Dissers? And was this where they taped the podcast from? I haven't yet listened to it as I have the Christmas music on Sirius going 24-7 these days!

I love the Mexico counter service too! And I like the "new" one even more. They made one of the F&W booths permanent. Approaching from Future World/Canada, it is on the left hand side before the pavilion. It has the most delicious tostadas.

There was mixing and mingling. They had coffee and water in the back and during the breaks there was lots of chatting and meeting. I'm not sure if that's the exact same room they used to tape the podcast (I didn't attend that) but think they did use the same hotel. The DIS really knows how to throw an event!

So, so pretty! I'm excited to see what Kidani looks like too - I haven't searched for any pictures yet...I just might resist and be surprised!

I am so looking forward to all your pictures!



Wonderful WL shots! I really like this one of the totem pole, such beautiful detail.

It is amazing. So immersive - definitely feel like you're in another world.


In your WL shot you can really see the "Bear Face", very cool!

True confession - that was totally unintentional! I'd forgotten about the bear face and didn't even notice it at the time!

And I find it cute that the Dad had his kids pile on top of him for the picture! I bet that made a really great card.

it was so adorable I can't even tell you. You could just tell they were all having so much fun together.

The seminar sounded amazing!!!! I am so far behind on Podcasts, but I think I should just skip ahead and hear their report of it all. You said there was a blog too on Marty? I must have missed that one...gotta find it!

Yes, go check it out. The seminar was great.

I found it really interesting that he said Walt's ideas are guidelines, not blueprints. I figured they were always thinking "What would Walt do?" Makes sense though-times are much different now, they have to cater to today's world to keep current....

I thought it was interesting too. I'm sure it was everyone's first instinct to as what Walt would do. In fact he said that a lot of people couldn't function anymore without Walt telling them what to do and commented how sad that was.

I am very happy to read a positive review of the Mexico TS! I read somewhere that it changed, and your update was proof positive! Those chips and salsa look delicious. I really hope they have changed for the good! YUM!

I say give it another try!

You got a great 'capture' of the bear face at Wilderness Lodge!

The Beach Club tree is cool. I very much want to stay there someday!

I would love to hear more stories from the seminars. I know that was fascinating.

The World Showcase pictures are great. The lights in Mexico add to the festive atmosphere.

I'm going to be taking about ten thousand pictures next week. There is so much to see, and I want to keep it all to see again and again!

I am over the bear face. I can't believe I got that by accident!

Let's see... more stories from the seminars...

Marty mentioned the story behind space mountain in FL. Did you know it is a 1/3 larger than any other Space Mountain? Anyway, I guess at the time there was an existing contract with RCA and $10M on the table if Disney could figure out how to incorporate them into an attraction. Their first pitch to RCA was a disaster. The Chairman would apparently only sit in a certain chair that they realized too late would have its back to their story boards, and in the middle of the meeting the Chairman passed around a note that made it's way to Marty and read "who are these people??" Well there's a year of work down the drain! Marty said he went back to California and said "that's it; I'm done." His boss said, "there's $10M on the table, I don't think so, try again." So he said he went back to square one, approached it as what does the park need rather than how can we incorporate RCA, and when he went back to pitch again insisted the Chairman sit in a different chair. Turns out that was no problem- no one had ever asked the Chairman to move!

Someone asked him a question about balancing the story and imagineering with the inevitable financial restrictions/budget. The person asking the question specifically referenced being able to see hotels on the horizon over World Showcase and behind the Eiffel Tower. Marty answered that of course the budget was always going to be a restriction. He said on the hotel issue specifically that they had mocked it up in pictures for Michael Eisner, taken him to the park and mocked it up "live" to show him, and that Michael agreed that under "any other" circumstances they would never do it but apparently the hotel developers or architects or someone was about to sue and this was the only alternative.

He talked about the new Cars Land being developed for California and said that alone was going to be worth the price of admission!

MeMom- I will now be expecting AT LEAST 10,000 pictures from you. And don't think I won't count!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Next up we were doing some wandering around World Showcase. Off to Norway… where there was a 30 min wait for Maelstrom!!

China

Germany

Snow White’s wishing well. I was surprised this was filled in. Guess it makes sense- having your kid fall down the well would probably ruin vacation but makes it hard to throw a coin in and make a wish!

Inside the shops:

Even the train village is decorated for Christmas!

Oh, look – a wedding!

I love Italy. Do I say that about every pavilion??

Inside a shop:

A restaurant I will most definitely be hitting on my next visit based on recent reviews…. Tutto Italia

Up next: still more wandering, Y&B Club lobbies and Illuminations

 

[ILuvCrush]

Ok... the face on the building freaked me out a bit...didn't see that coming!

lovely update C! The seminar sounds terrific!

P

 

[onelilspark]

I love how they decorate Germany's train village...it's so festive!

 

[manntra]

Thanks for sharing some of the highlights from the seminar. That must have been so interesting to be there.
Also thank you (as does CP) for the sign in France regarding the Cosmo slush. I know you didn't care for it but I thought it was very, very tasty. The pomegranate kir sounds like I should give it a shot too.
I agree with you on the poinsetta tree....it is very interesting how it was made but I am not a modern decorating kind of girl at all.
Train village very cute!

Tracy

 

[Charleston Princess]

I am with Tracy, I want to try the Pomegranate Kir!

More pretty World Showcase decorations!!! How adorable that the train village was even decorated!

A 30 minute wait for Maelstrom? That's crazy!!!

 

[manntra]

In your honor I had a glass of Prosecco last night for our work Christmas dinner I was only going to have one drink at the start of the night because I was driving so I wanted to make it a good one.

Merry Christmas Christine!! ​

Tracy