Goofmeister
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Oct 17, 2003
- Messages
- 213
Cast:
Sam (30) - the Planner, (1985,1987,2000) Trip # 4
Angie (30) - Eeyore nut and researcher, (2000) Trip # 2
Samantha (3.75) (2000) Trip # 2
Day 3, Sunday December, 1st 2002
Lucky Hat.
Weather: Very Nice, high 60s
Plan: Animal Kingdom, Rainforest Café, OHanas
Despite Mickeys urging about big doings going on we slept past our 7am wake-up. However, we made it to the 9am opening of AK despite ourselves. On our last trip (on advice to arrive first at KS or risk missing it) we stiff-legged-it to the safari. Our poacher hunt and capture was less than impressive. We were left wondering what was the big deal was about KS. Angie swore she would never again race to an attraction.
Which explains why we strolled to the Legend of the Lion King, stopped to take pictures of the Alligator Rock waterfall, Daisy leading some scouts, and Mickey and friends fishing. The LotLK theater was already seating people.
If you have not been to LotLK, you sit in one of four areas, Elephants, Lions, Giraffes and that other one. (I think its Warthogs). As part of your audience participation, you are requested to make the sound of your particular section. They ask for audience volunteers to lead the section, and demonstrate the sound. Usually this person looks real silly (or cute) trying to make the animal sounds. And everyone has a good laugh. Its fun, but Im suspicious about the Warthog sound. Im not sure its very Pumbaa-esq.
I picked the first section on your left as you enter. Angie said wed be in the giraffe section, but I remembered this as the elephant section. Giraffes were way on the other side. I didnt want to be a giraffe, or an elephant. I wanted to be a lion (ROAR!), but that section was full. Samantha now noticed that this was a theater, and not a ride. She loudly announced that she didnt want to see ANY shows. We forced her to stay by making idle threats through our gritted teeth. You will have fun young lady even if we had to make you. We chose seats near the front of the section hoping Samantha would be chosen to lead our group.
As it turns out my wife was correct, again. We were giraffes. And, to add insult to injury, Samantha was NOT chosen because we made room for other guests as instructed by the CMs. She was disappointed, but interested in the show now. The little girl that they did choose was sitting very close to our original spot, but they ignored the instructions to move down. (Grrr!) What sound does a giraffe make? I know, but Im not telling you. Heres a Hint: It doesnt sound like a lion with laryngitis.
We called the animals, and were treated to a fun show of singing dancing, acrobatics, and fire. Ooohhh, fire! We all had fun, even Samantha. See parents do know what they are doing.
Exiting the theater, we stopped by Camp Minnie-Mickey. We met Suzy mouse, who is larger in person than I expected, Daisy and Minnie. I liked this a lot better than I thought I would. To me standing in line to get autographs and pictures with the characters sounded like a poor use of our time, and a little boring. I consented because it would be fun for Samantha, and shed be cute interacting with the characters. The part I was dreading, waiting in line, was quick and efficient. Plus the characters were out for only a short period of time (about 20-30 minutes). That forced us to pick wisely. And when they left, we moved on too. There were a few people who were very gung-ho about meeting ALL the characters. Apparently you need several people to stand in various lines, walkie-talkies, hand signals, GPS system, and a professional photographer. I actually heard one Dad yelling: Go! Go! Go! Suzy mouse has no line. I repeat, Suzy mouse has no line.
We took a long stroll to KS. We waited about five minutes, and had a much-improved ride. It was great. The water was going, and the bridge worked, and the animals were out. But I think what made the biggest difference was our guide. The CM didnt hurry us through, and this gave us a lot of opportunities to see more animals. I can almost believe these animals are free to come and go as they please. It could use a little more excitement at the end, but its still a great ride.
Next, we walked through the nearby Pangani Forest Trail. I like animals, and these were very accessible. The only problem I had with this is the guests were in way too big of a hurry. I felt like I was being rushed. I was also a little concerned about the aviary. Birds shouldnt be allowed to fly over people without teeny-tiny birdy diapers. The gorillas and meerkats were fantastic, and so close. The lake was a neat effect because you could see surface and shore, as well as underwater views of the turtles and fish. When we finished the trail, it was nearing our noon PS for the Rainforest café.
I was really impressed on our first visit to the Rainforest in 2000. I think the fish tanks archways are mesmerizing. The thunderstorm and audio-animatronic animal performances are cool. We found out later that this is a chain restaurant. There is one in Dallas where my sister-in-law lives. Whenever wed visit her wed go for a quick WDW fix.
Back to WDW 2002: For Christmas, the elephants and gorillas were wearing comical Santa hats. The food is good, but the volcano desert is better. We had quesidillas, Bamba chicken wraps, and a Samanthas cheeseburger. I decided I wanted a T-shirt, and Samantha and I shopped a little. We decided to pick something up when we were leaving.
Back into the AK, we decided to see ITTBAB with some trepidation. We had read that this show could be intense for some pre-schoolers. I thought it would be Ok because the insects were more cartoon-like than realistic. That, and the fact that Samantha isnt afraid of many bugs. We watched the show, and for some reason Samantha sat on Mommys lap. I thought I understood why after the effects started. I didnt realize I was being set-up. Lets just say, I was surprised in the end. I looked at my wife and daughter in shock and realized that they were watching me, and laughing. Id say we liked the show, but it wasnt one of our favorites. I think Hopper could be a little too menacing for some children, and Angie was a little freaked out by the spiders. Overall, it was not scary at all, and we had a good laugh at my expense.
It was time to treat Samantha to the Boneyard. I will always remember this. Samantha had a wonderful time climbing and sliding and running around. Overprotective Dad was only steps away, always with one-eye on his child. She scurried across and up a net ladder that was twenty feet off the ground with no troubles. The second time through, some bigger kids accidentally bounced her, and she froze in terror. I coaxed her off, and thought I had convinced her to go a different way. This is when I learned that my dear daughter will tell me what I want to hear, and then do whatever she wants to do. Before I could catch her, she got stuck again, and this time was screaming and crying hysterically. Now Im trying to help her. First, I try to talk her down. Then, I try to rescue her, but I cant get to her without some other kid getting in the way. The final straw was when Helpful Stranger shows up, and tries to rescue my kid for me. Suddenly I am seperated from my poor terrified daughter by every child at Disney and this trying-to-be-helpful woman. Finally, I was able to squeeze past the mob, scoop her up and carry her down. I was doing a great job consoling her when Very Angry Mom shows up to whisk Samantha away. Of course I feel like a heel, the worst Dad ever, I deserved Angies wrath. But what could I have done differently? Maybe I shouldve tried harder to keep her away from the nets? Could I really not let her try? This incident put a damper on our afternoon.
Samantha and Angie went to ride Triceratops spin. I followed glumly behind. We all rode together. Well in a manner of speaking, Mom and Samantha were in the front. However, It was safer for everyone to have Loser Dad in the back seat where he cant hurt anyone. We slowly erased the bad memories of the Boneyard with some ice cream, and some carnival games. I think the stuffed snake I won Samantha at the basketball toss finally did the trick. She loved this toy, and it is still one of her favorites. Mom seemed to finally forgive me. We were all in a better mood when we headed to the parade route stopping in a few shops (chocolate crayons) along the way.
Before we made it to the parade we stopped at the Discovery Island Character trails and met Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet, and Pooh. Samantha loves Piglet, and all because of their special time together at 1900 Park Fare last night. She waved at him, and he came over and gave her a hug and kiss.
We were lucky enough to have a bench of our own. Everyone was thirsty; so we got various frozen drinks. We ended up sharing the bench with an Asian woman before a spilled drink made us rethink our spot. We moved across the street, and found a shady place underneath a tree. It was just big enough for the three of us. We had a great time with the other families near us. We enjoyed the company of a little girl about Samanthas age. The two girls were cute, blonde, and standing next to each other. This ought to be the right combination to attract some parade magic. It did. It was like a moth to the flame.
Ever conscious to stay behind the white line the two girls would stand side by side and wave. Samantha had developed this shy little wave. Shed hold her hand up next to her cheek, and open and shut it as the characters passed. Dale and Brer Rabbit came up and gave her hugs while many others were content with high fives, and handshakes.
Samantha attracted playful Disney characters; I attracted pooping birds. The lady next to me said that in her country it was considered lucky to have a bird poop on your hat. I told her she could have it then. She, however, must have had all the luck she needed because I still have the hat. Apparently, bird poop isnt as desirable as she claimed.
While Angie stood in the huge line and purchased the family picture with Tigger, Samantha and I picked out goodies from the Rainforest Café. I bought the T-shirt I had been eyeing, and Samantha got a stuffed mommy and baby monkey toy. We waited outside the park, watched the waterfall from the Rainforest Café, and helped take some pictures for a couple of newly weds.
Samantha fell asleep on the bus back to ASMo. So, we decided to reschedule OHannas for Saturday. I did some laundry and enjoyed a beer by the pool while the girls relaxed and rested in the room.
When Samantha woke up we had dinner at the food court: taco salad, pepperoni pizza, and mac and cheese. We had M&M cookies and brownies for desert.
Samantha and I walked around while Angie snuck out to buy the huge Cinderellas castle play-set from the hotel gift shop. This was one of Samanthas Christmas presents. She also grabbed a copy of the Spectromagic music, All-Stars Resort magnet, Mickey Mouse stencil set and a magnetic bumper sticker. Why this is important, I dont know but it was on my receipt.
When Samantha and I got back, I found out (through hand gestures) that it was my job to disguise the behemoth box hidden in the shower. I performed another amazing bathroom trick, and wrapped the monster in two huge WDW resort bags. Samantha kept knocking on the door asking if I was all right.
Me: Of course I am, (I had to lie) Im just going potty. Its real stinky so, STAY AWAY! This worked for a little while, but her curiosity got the best of her.
Samantha: Why is it so stinky Daddy? I was not prepared for an elaborate discussion about my make believe body functions.
Me: I dont know. Ask your Mom. Ive discovered this little gem by accident. It works pretty well, but it can backfire so beware.
Mommy: Because Daddy is a stinky boy. Shoo whee. Stinky.
Me: (announcing my departure from the bathroom) Im opening the door.
I hid the wrapped package on the shelf for your luggage. She never even noticed. I wonder how long will be able to keep fooling her before she catches on. Samantha finally notices Im out of the bathroom.
Samantha: (Pointing to me and laughing) Its the stinky boy!
To which I think to myself: I hope its a long time before you change your mind about boys.
We turned in soon after that because Cinderella was expecting us for breakfast tomorrow.
Highs: FotLK, winning a stuffed snake, and the Jammin Jungle Parade.
Lows: The Boneyard, Pooping Birds.
Tips Learned: Find a parade spot that is protected from people pushing in on you, but stay away from bird prone areas. Kids will do what they want, and require constant vigilance, gentle guidance, and you to let go just a little every once in a while. Giraffes were on the left. My wife is often correct. Character trails arent as bad as I thought.
Part 7.
Sam (30) - the Planner, (1985,1987,2000) Trip # 4
Angie (30) - Eeyore nut and researcher, (2000) Trip # 2
Samantha (3.75) (2000) Trip # 2
Day 3, Sunday December, 1st 2002
Lucky Hat.
Weather: Very Nice, high 60s
Plan: Animal Kingdom, Rainforest Café, OHanas
Despite Mickeys urging about big doings going on we slept past our 7am wake-up. However, we made it to the 9am opening of AK despite ourselves. On our last trip (on advice to arrive first at KS or risk missing it) we stiff-legged-it to the safari. Our poacher hunt and capture was less than impressive. We were left wondering what was the big deal was about KS. Angie swore she would never again race to an attraction.
Which explains why we strolled to the Legend of the Lion King, stopped to take pictures of the Alligator Rock waterfall, Daisy leading some scouts, and Mickey and friends fishing. The LotLK theater was already seating people.
If you have not been to LotLK, you sit in one of four areas, Elephants, Lions, Giraffes and that other one. (I think its Warthogs). As part of your audience participation, you are requested to make the sound of your particular section. They ask for audience volunteers to lead the section, and demonstrate the sound. Usually this person looks real silly (or cute) trying to make the animal sounds. And everyone has a good laugh. Its fun, but Im suspicious about the Warthog sound. Im not sure its very Pumbaa-esq.
I picked the first section on your left as you enter. Angie said wed be in the giraffe section, but I remembered this as the elephant section. Giraffes were way on the other side. I didnt want to be a giraffe, or an elephant. I wanted to be a lion (ROAR!), but that section was full. Samantha now noticed that this was a theater, and not a ride. She loudly announced that she didnt want to see ANY shows. We forced her to stay by making idle threats through our gritted teeth. You will have fun young lady even if we had to make you. We chose seats near the front of the section hoping Samantha would be chosen to lead our group.
As it turns out my wife was correct, again. We were giraffes. And, to add insult to injury, Samantha was NOT chosen because we made room for other guests as instructed by the CMs. She was disappointed, but interested in the show now. The little girl that they did choose was sitting very close to our original spot, but they ignored the instructions to move down. (Grrr!) What sound does a giraffe make? I know, but Im not telling you. Heres a Hint: It doesnt sound like a lion with laryngitis.
We called the animals, and were treated to a fun show of singing dancing, acrobatics, and fire. Ooohhh, fire! We all had fun, even Samantha. See parents do know what they are doing.
Exiting the theater, we stopped by Camp Minnie-Mickey. We met Suzy mouse, who is larger in person than I expected, Daisy and Minnie. I liked this a lot better than I thought I would. To me standing in line to get autographs and pictures with the characters sounded like a poor use of our time, and a little boring. I consented because it would be fun for Samantha, and shed be cute interacting with the characters. The part I was dreading, waiting in line, was quick and efficient. Plus the characters were out for only a short period of time (about 20-30 minutes). That forced us to pick wisely. And when they left, we moved on too. There were a few people who were very gung-ho about meeting ALL the characters. Apparently you need several people to stand in various lines, walkie-talkies, hand signals, GPS system, and a professional photographer. I actually heard one Dad yelling: Go! Go! Go! Suzy mouse has no line. I repeat, Suzy mouse has no line.
We took a long stroll to KS. We waited about five minutes, and had a much-improved ride. It was great. The water was going, and the bridge worked, and the animals were out. But I think what made the biggest difference was our guide. The CM didnt hurry us through, and this gave us a lot of opportunities to see more animals. I can almost believe these animals are free to come and go as they please. It could use a little more excitement at the end, but its still a great ride.
Next, we walked through the nearby Pangani Forest Trail. I like animals, and these were very accessible. The only problem I had with this is the guests were in way too big of a hurry. I felt like I was being rushed. I was also a little concerned about the aviary. Birds shouldnt be allowed to fly over people without teeny-tiny birdy diapers. The gorillas and meerkats were fantastic, and so close. The lake was a neat effect because you could see surface and shore, as well as underwater views of the turtles and fish. When we finished the trail, it was nearing our noon PS for the Rainforest café.
I was really impressed on our first visit to the Rainforest in 2000. I think the fish tanks archways are mesmerizing. The thunderstorm and audio-animatronic animal performances are cool. We found out later that this is a chain restaurant. There is one in Dallas where my sister-in-law lives. Whenever wed visit her wed go for a quick WDW fix.
Back to WDW 2002: For Christmas, the elephants and gorillas were wearing comical Santa hats. The food is good, but the volcano desert is better. We had quesidillas, Bamba chicken wraps, and a Samanthas cheeseburger. I decided I wanted a T-shirt, and Samantha and I shopped a little. We decided to pick something up when we were leaving.
Back into the AK, we decided to see ITTBAB with some trepidation. We had read that this show could be intense for some pre-schoolers. I thought it would be Ok because the insects were more cartoon-like than realistic. That, and the fact that Samantha isnt afraid of many bugs. We watched the show, and for some reason Samantha sat on Mommys lap. I thought I understood why after the effects started. I didnt realize I was being set-up. Lets just say, I was surprised in the end. I looked at my wife and daughter in shock and realized that they were watching me, and laughing. Id say we liked the show, but it wasnt one of our favorites. I think Hopper could be a little too menacing for some children, and Angie was a little freaked out by the spiders. Overall, it was not scary at all, and we had a good laugh at my expense.
It was time to treat Samantha to the Boneyard. I will always remember this. Samantha had a wonderful time climbing and sliding and running around. Overprotective Dad was only steps away, always with one-eye on his child. She scurried across and up a net ladder that was twenty feet off the ground with no troubles. The second time through, some bigger kids accidentally bounced her, and she froze in terror. I coaxed her off, and thought I had convinced her to go a different way. This is when I learned that my dear daughter will tell me what I want to hear, and then do whatever she wants to do. Before I could catch her, she got stuck again, and this time was screaming and crying hysterically. Now Im trying to help her. First, I try to talk her down. Then, I try to rescue her, but I cant get to her without some other kid getting in the way. The final straw was when Helpful Stranger shows up, and tries to rescue my kid for me. Suddenly I am seperated from my poor terrified daughter by every child at Disney and this trying-to-be-helpful woman. Finally, I was able to squeeze past the mob, scoop her up and carry her down. I was doing a great job consoling her when Very Angry Mom shows up to whisk Samantha away. Of course I feel like a heel, the worst Dad ever, I deserved Angies wrath. But what could I have done differently? Maybe I shouldve tried harder to keep her away from the nets? Could I really not let her try? This incident put a damper on our afternoon.
Samantha and Angie went to ride Triceratops spin. I followed glumly behind. We all rode together. Well in a manner of speaking, Mom and Samantha were in the front. However, It was safer for everyone to have Loser Dad in the back seat where he cant hurt anyone. We slowly erased the bad memories of the Boneyard with some ice cream, and some carnival games. I think the stuffed snake I won Samantha at the basketball toss finally did the trick. She loved this toy, and it is still one of her favorites. Mom seemed to finally forgive me. We were all in a better mood when we headed to the parade route stopping in a few shops (chocolate crayons) along the way.
Before we made it to the parade we stopped at the Discovery Island Character trails and met Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet, and Pooh. Samantha loves Piglet, and all because of their special time together at 1900 Park Fare last night. She waved at him, and he came over and gave her a hug and kiss.
We were lucky enough to have a bench of our own. Everyone was thirsty; so we got various frozen drinks. We ended up sharing the bench with an Asian woman before a spilled drink made us rethink our spot. We moved across the street, and found a shady place underneath a tree. It was just big enough for the three of us. We had a great time with the other families near us. We enjoyed the company of a little girl about Samanthas age. The two girls were cute, blonde, and standing next to each other. This ought to be the right combination to attract some parade magic. It did. It was like a moth to the flame.
Ever conscious to stay behind the white line the two girls would stand side by side and wave. Samantha had developed this shy little wave. Shed hold her hand up next to her cheek, and open and shut it as the characters passed. Dale and Brer Rabbit came up and gave her hugs while many others were content with high fives, and handshakes.
Samantha attracted playful Disney characters; I attracted pooping birds. The lady next to me said that in her country it was considered lucky to have a bird poop on your hat. I told her she could have it then. She, however, must have had all the luck she needed because I still have the hat. Apparently, bird poop isnt as desirable as she claimed.
While Angie stood in the huge line and purchased the family picture with Tigger, Samantha and I picked out goodies from the Rainforest Café. I bought the T-shirt I had been eyeing, and Samantha got a stuffed mommy and baby monkey toy. We waited outside the park, watched the waterfall from the Rainforest Café, and helped take some pictures for a couple of newly weds.
Samantha fell asleep on the bus back to ASMo. So, we decided to reschedule OHannas for Saturday. I did some laundry and enjoyed a beer by the pool while the girls relaxed and rested in the room.
When Samantha woke up we had dinner at the food court: taco salad, pepperoni pizza, and mac and cheese. We had M&M cookies and brownies for desert.
Samantha and I walked around while Angie snuck out to buy the huge Cinderellas castle play-set from the hotel gift shop. This was one of Samanthas Christmas presents. She also grabbed a copy of the Spectromagic music, All-Stars Resort magnet, Mickey Mouse stencil set and a magnetic bumper sticker. Why this is important, I dont know but it was on my receipt.
When Samantha and I got back, I found out (through hand gestures) that it was my job to disguise the behemoth box hidden in the shower. I performed another amazing bathroom trick, and wrapped the monster in two huge WDW resort bags. Samantha kept knocking on the door asking if I was all right.
Me: Of course I am, (I had to lie) Im just going potty. Its real stinky so, STAY AWAY! This worked for a little while, but her curiosity got the best of her.
Samantha: Why is it so stinky Daddy? I was not prepared for an elaborate discussion about my make believe body functions.
Me: I dont know. Ask your Mom. Ive discovered this little gem by accident. It works pretty well, but it can backfire so beware.
Mommy: Because Daddy is a stinky boy. Shoo whee. Stinky.
Me: (announcing my departure from the bathroom) Im opening the door.
I hid the wrapped package on the shelf for your luggage. She never even noticed. I wonder how long will be able to keep fooling her before she catches on. Samantha finally notices Im out of the bathroom.
Samantha: (Pointing to me and laughing) Its the stinky boy!
To which I think to myself: I hope its a long time before you change your mind about boys.
We turned in soon after that because Cinderella was expecting us for breakfast tomorrow.
Highs: FotLK, winning a stuffed snake, and the Jammin Jungle Parade.
Lows: The Boneyard, Pooping Birds.
Tips Learned: Find a parade spot that is protected from people pushing in on you, but stay away from bird prone areas. Kids will do what they want, and require constant vigilance, gentle guidance, and you to let go just a little every once in a while. Giraffes were on the left. My wife is often correct. Character trails arent as bad as I thought.
Part 7.
