Adventures of a DisneyWORLDholic! Updated1/24 I was an unofficial WDW tour guide.

[TinksThree]

The tour sounds fun but the parking lot drama not so much! DH and I *never* have our share of meltdowns!!

I think they are simply trying to protect Tinkerbell's reputation!

 

[dismagiclover]

Lots of interesting tidbits. I have mixed feelings about whether I'd want to do this tour or not. I like the idea that WDW is magical. I know it's not, but i dont want to neccesarily see proof of it! I hope you make your photo shoot.

 

[jmskinner]

Yeah! An update!

I think the guy who has to make the burp-smell for Stitch may be a contender for worst job! And I'm not quite sure I would get in line for the waste management position on Kilimanjaro Safari.

Dude! It's Tinkerbill!

Sorry to hear that there was a bit of non-magical interaction in the parking lot!

I have seen that pic before. Wonder if Disney made a change now that cameras have such great zooms on them and are able to take great pics at night. I'm about 99% sure the last few times I have seen Tink, she was Tinkerbell and not Tinkerbill.

The tour sounds fun but the parking lot drama not so much! DH and I *never* have our share of meltdowns!!

I think they are simply trying to protect Tinkerbell's reputation!

Not happy that you have meltdowns, but it nice to know we aren't the only ones.

I have wondered how many details we were told that are true, or as you say just protecting Disney's reputation.

Lots of interesting tidbits. I have mixed feelings about whether I'd want to do this tour or not. I like the idea that WDW is magical. I know it's not, but i dont want to neccesarily see proof of it! I hope you make your photo shoot.

I know what you mean. Since attending the Youth Program and going backstage at HM, it has really changed my view of a lot of the rides. Not just HM, but Winnie the Pooh changed for me.

Thanks everyone for sticking around. Sorry I haven't updated, but will do so now.

 

[jmskinner]

I ended with me and the hubby on our romantic, busy weekend having a meltdown. Part of Jonas' problem was not only did he want a nap, but he wanted to do some packing since this was our last night.

The nap won and he was in a better mood after it.

He decided he wouldn't drink on this night, so we decided to drive over to WL for our Photoshoot.

I had seen this in other TR's, so I was glad I finally got a pic for myself:


Something you only see if you come from the parking lot.

Now, I was use to entering the resort from the bus area, so I was completely turned around once in the lobby. I made a comment about not being in this portion before, which then Jonas, in not such a nice way, explained that we were right in front of WCC, one of our favorites. Geez, I'm getting old.

We finally found the photopass counter and met Alex. Or at least that is what his nametag said. He introduced himself, "Hi! I'm not Alex, I'm Felix." He went on to explain that his nametag was in the car when he left home, arrived at work and it wasn't there. I've had that happen with stuff a few times.

He was a great guy and photographer. Was even very careful to point out that we shouldn't lean on railings outside during the photoshoot because everything was still wet from the earlier rain. And here are our shots.

This was taken up on the 4th floor balcony:


Outside overlooking the pool:




Out by the boat dock:






Inside the WLV lobby:


Felix's favorite hidden Mickey:


We were trying to think of more poses, when I came up with that one. Not the greatest, wish I had just thought to sit in a chair and see how many notice the hidden Mickey. And I didn't pay for that one, Felix was nice enough to give it to us since he knew I liked Hidden Mickey's.

After our photoshoot, Felix said it would take about 30 minutes or so to upload the pics. We decided to head back to our hotel and do some packing.

Once back at WL, we had to go into the gift shop to get a sales receipt for the photo package that was to be included in our package. We got that, got our pics, and headed over to the Contemporary for California Grill.

Oh, almost forgot. While previewing our pics, Jonas and I were commenting on how good this one shot of me was. Jonas always says that I either looked drunk or stoned in my pics. While this pic was up I commented "Wow, I don't look drunk or stoned." Then Felix said "Hi, officer." I'm thinking he is kidding...nope. Right then I turn to see a police officer, not security, walking through. Oops!

Ok, after my embarassement, we made it to CG which was one restaurant I was really looking forward to. Heard some many amazing things about it. Now, the first thing I noticed was how people were dressed. I had a hard time figuring out what to wear this night because CG was one restaurant that seemed to have a strict dress code. Not as strict as V&A, but still a dress code. While checking in, I saw a lot of people not dressed that well. No one in baseball hats and t-shirts or anything, but those at the Yachtsman were dressed nicer. Oh well, we were going to have a nice dinner.

We decided to sit at the bar and I had a drink, and Jonas had a coke. Finally it was time for our table. We ended up seated overlooking the roof of the Contemporary. Jonas can't stand sitting with his back to a room or a door (side effect of being in Iraq), so he got the nice comfy bench and I got the chair. I was ok with that, but my view wasn't that great. While sitting there, I noticed a fog rolling in. It was now dark and now I couldn't even see the lights from the TTC.

Our waiter had greeted us and then disappeared. Eventually a manager came up and took our order, because our waiter, Mike was having a ticket issue. Jonas said he had been watching him the whole time and could tell he was trying.

By this point, you are probably wondering what we had, and I apologize for there not being any food porn, but it was so dark, I knew the pics wouldn't turn out without a flash and I didn't want to disturb people.

Jonas chose the Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Cambozola Blue, Mushroom Cream, Horseradish, and Tempura Shallots $13 as his appetizer. I had the Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Pesto, Shiitake Mushrooms, and Basil $14. We both had the Filet $44 each and for dessert, I had the Tanzanian Chocolate Crème Brûlée $12 and Jonas had the Baked Pecan Tart $12.

Total price of meal $194.54 with tip of $30.76 (OOP) and my drink, which was a Twisted Mai Tai (OOP). That Mai Tai was very good.

On top of how everyone was dressed, and by the way, we were just about the most dressed up people in there, the restaurant was really loud. Maybe it was all the people there for conventions, but it just seemed really loud. I had thought it would be very quiet.

The waiter came over while we were enjoying our appetizers and said the fireworks were about to start. Jonas mentioned I was finished with my appetizer and the waiter then said he could keep Jonas' warm for him. One problem, I wasn't done. From Jonas' position, it looked like I was done, but I still had half of the ravioli to finish. It was one large ravioli. (Vickie will get a kick out of that comment.)

We went out to view the fireworks, but first I stopped in the ladies room. No little kids to crack me up this time, but I did open the door to exit at the exact moment this little old lady was trying to enter. She almost fell down. I felt so bad. I found Jonas out on the observation deck, which they have two if you haven't been out there before.

Here is how it looks when you look straight down:


And this is what MK looked like when we first got there


It was a little chilly and Jonas gave me his jacket. Very sweet.

Now remember how I said the fog had rolled in and I couldn't even see the TTC from my seat in the restaurant, well that same fog arrived in MK. We watched as it took over Space Mountain, then the Castle disappeared. Finally Wishes started, but you couldn't even see the fireworks. That ravioli was calling my name, so I asked if we could go in. Jonas kept apologizing because he knew I wanted to see the fireworks from there, but honestly, I really wanted that ravioli more.

We get back to our table and there is Jonas' flatbread covered up and my plate gone. Guess the waiter really listened to Jonas. Oh well, it was good while it lasted. The Filet's and the dessert were all really good.

We finished our meal and headed back to POR. I would recommend the food at California Grill, but if you want something romantic, not so much. Still like the Yachtsman much better.

So, that was the last night of our belated Anniversary trip. At least we were talking to each other again.

 

[ScotsMinnie]

Loving your trip! You just got to do so many special things during your stay. cant believe you squeezed them all in. Such a shame the fog spoiled your fireworks viewing.

 

[natebenma]

Great pictures from your photo shoot!

That's too bad about the fireworks- sorry it was "fogged-out"

on the premature removal of your ravioli! I usually eat every bite of food put in front of me, so that would have driven me crazy!

That is too funny about the security officer showing up at just the wrong time when you were reviewing your photos.

What an amazing bunch of experiences you too had- goes to prove that even if you can visit WDW frequently, there is still something new to see!

 

[TinksThree]

Love the pictures! Glad you guys were on "good terms" again....makes the night better!!

 

[rebecca06261]

While we were back stage, Dave did show us exactly where Tinkerbell ended up after her flight. Also, he mentioned how a lot of people think Tinkerbell is a man. Well, he said Tink has to be shorter than 5 feet and weigh 90 lbs. "How many men do you know that can meet that?'" We did get to see video of the Tink at DL practicing in the Nevada desert and that was a woman. But this was during a special presentation for AP's.

When I did the Keys tour- our guide confirmed that it was indeed a Tinkerbob then again, she also said "Disney will never get rid of the McDonald's fry-cart."

 

[jmskinner]

Loving your trip! You just got to do so many special things during your stay. cant believe you squeezed them all in. Such a shame the fog spoiled your fireworks viewing.

Thank you. It really was a nice, grownup time at WDW. Honestly, the only place I want to see Wishes or any fireworks show at MK is from the front of the castle. The way it was meant to be seen.

Great pictures from your photo shoot!

That's too bad about the fireworks- sorry it was "fogged-out"

on the premature removal of your ravioli! I usually eat every bite of food put in front of me, so that would have driven me crazy!

That is too funny about the security officer showing up at just the wrong time when you were reviewing your photos.

What an amazing bunch of experiences you too had- goes to prove that even if you can visit WDW frequently, there is still something new to see!

I noticed something just this past weekend I hadn't noticed before. Of course it always helps that they are constantly refurbishing.

That ravioli was very good.

Love the pictures! Glad you guys were on "good terms" again....makes the night better!!

Thank you! Think we were just extremely tired by that point. And the good news, we are still on "good terms" with each other.

When I did the Keys tour- our guide confirmed that it was indeed a Tinkerbob then again, she also said "Disney will never get rid of the McDonald's fry-cart."

 

[jmskinner]

Had a hair appointment today, then some shopping at Wal-Mart, so this day is shot as far as getting things done around the house...let's update the trip report then.

Jonas and I woke up the next morning to pack. While doing so, I got the bill from the resort and as I am reviewing it I notice we were charged for the photo session. Of course this sends me into panic mode, that's $50! Jonas tells me to go take care of it and he will finish packing. Not sure if you remember, but we are in the last room of the resort, so it wasn't a short, quick walk, but a long, quick walk. Of course the CM helping has no idea about the premium package, but the one next to her did, so they credited me the amount. Don't know why I panic, I know they are great about fixing their mistakes.

Get back to the room and Jonas is about done loading up the car. We climb in and head over to:










And we were at the Polynesian for this:


I had heard and read so many good things about Kona and their breakfast. Specifically the Tonga Toast. I thought Jonas might like that, but he ended up getting regular breakfast food.

I did get the Tonga Toast:


This picky-eater really enjoyed it. Here is me afterwards:


Probably all the food from the previous 3 days contributed to that look also.

Now while we are eating, I get a text from Facebook on my phone. It is Jonas' post, "So my wife believes the Mary Freakin Poppins was going to come by and magic all our stuff into the suitcases and car...0900 and I'm already tired". Now, didn't he "tell" me to go fix the bill and "he" would take care of it. See, can't win.



After breakfast we headed over to MK to use up all of our snack credits, we still had 13!

We checked out Space Mountain, we were there earlier enough to get one ride in. From there we headed over to the Confectionery to put those snack credits to good use, but I had to stop for pictures of the performers








The best time to go into the Confectionery is first thing in the morning. We had 5 or 6 CM's helping us since we were the only ones in the shop. They kept trying to get us to get fudge, but I had made my Velveeta fudge for Christmas and still had a lot left.

Here is our loot:


We stopped over in Guest Relations to see if our next tour was still taking place. Any guesses or anyone remember what the next tour was? Would we even make it in time?!?!

 

[TinksThree]

Thank you! Think we were just extremely tired by that point. And the good news, we are still on "good terms" with each other.

That is very, very good news that you are still on "good terms"! Especially since there isn't a magical Mary Poppins!!

Your last morning matches what I am thinking about doing! I have heard about the Tonga Toast and I am considering checking out of POFQ and heading to the Poly for breakfast before getting on the long road home. So was it good enough to put that in my plans???

 

[jmskinner]

That is very, very good news that you are still on "good terms"! Especially since there isn't a magical Mary Poppins!!

Your last morning matches what I am thinking about doing! I have heard about the Tonga Toast and I am considering checking out of POFQ and heading to the Poly for breakfast before getting on the long road home. So was it good enough to put that in my plans???

Are you sure there isn't a magical Mary Poppins? The car was packed really well.

As far as including Kona as a last meal, I'm not a breakfast eater, don't eat banana's (one of those things I will taste the rest of the day, sorry for the TMI), but I would go back. I really did enjoy that breakfast and think Jonas did also. If you are in a hurry, ask for the ticket way in advance. One thing I noticed, all the other breakfasts gave us the orange juice when we asked for it along with the coffee (part of the meal plan), but Kona had us pay extra. I know the meal plan only covers one drink, but I thought that was odd.

I thought I would forewarn all of you, my behavior may get really loopy the next few months. We are waiting on orders for the next move and trying to figure out what to do with the house. Anyone wanting to move to Florida can get a great deal on a house right now, which is bad news for us. So, we are really starting to freak out.

Hope things are well for the rest of you and you have a great day!

 

[natebenma]

Kona is my favorite breakfast in the world (not World) to quote a famous trip report writer. The Pineapple Macadamia pancakes knock my socks off!

I forget what you said the next tour is, and I'm not going to cheat and go back to see if you said it. Looking forward to hearing about it.

Sounds like you will have your hands full as you await the news and make plans in the next few months.

 

[dismagiclover]

I love the pictures from the photoshoot. That is cool to have pictures of just the 2 of you. Maybe I'll try and fit a photoshoot into our couple trip. Looks like you used those snack credits wisely too! There is just so much food on the premium plan!

 

[jmskinner]

Sorry I have been MIA so much. I feel like such a horrible Dis'er. Been working on the house, since we finally have orders to the DC area. Hope to have our home on the market in the next week. Anyone need a house here in FL? And I thought I had at least responded to posts and I see I even failed there, so here I go.

Kona is my favorite breakfast in the world (not World) to quote a famous trip report writer. The Pineapple Macadamia pancakes knock my socks off!

I forget what you said the next tour is, and I'm not going to cheat and go back to see if you said it. Looking forward to hearing about it.

Sounds like you will have your hands full as you await the news and make plans in the next few months.

I'm wondering if I should try to book Kona again before we leave FL. I'll mention it to the hubby.

And I promise that tour post is coming, it was a real adventure.

I love the pictures from the photoshoot. That is cool to have pictures of just the 2 of you. Maybe I'll try and fit a photoshoot into our couple trip. Looks like you used those snack credits wisely too! There is just so much food on the premium plan!

I really enjoyed the photoshoot. Something I would like to do again.

And yes, there is way too much food on the premium plan.

And by the way, the sale of this house is not really stopping me from going to WDW. Gas prices are, but Jacob and I are going tomorrow for one night. It is Spring Break and my neighbor and her boys have two days left on their tickets so I am going to be an Unofficial Tour Guide once again.

May 20th, we will be 3 more crazy people in line for Star Tours. We are staying at Shades of Green. Originally had Pop booked, but SoG had a special and for a few bucks more, were able to do it. Thought a 2 night stay would be a good test. We also have the Yachtsman booked for dinner. I've emaild the special diets to see about getting Jacob some chicken tenders, but haven't heard from them.

And then in July, we plan to pack up, go to WDW July 22nd and then head North. Jonas is attending another Lord of the Rings Tournament there at WDW. Going to try to get POR since it will be our last stay for awhile.

Hope everyone is have a fantastic Spring and that those storms rolling across the country are skipping all of you!

 

[TinksThree]

Okay a little envious of the papers to the DC area! If I had to leave Florida, that would be the location I would want!! I have friends in the Marines stationed there and it is their 3rd time to be located in the DC area. She loves it!!

Good luck on the sell of the house....wish I could move to Florida!!

We will be in Disney the weekend after you hit SSW!!

 

[JPFamilyMom]

hey catching up over here, read the last day of your couple trip, need to go back and read the rest. can't wait to find out if you made that last tour

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Okay...been feeling REALLY REALLY REALLY guilty that I haven't done anything about our BFF trip...and now I see you haven't had much time for trip-reporting, either!

However, I'm thinking I might start it soon...how's your free time?

 

[carissanboys]

Miss seeing you on FB! Wanted to stop by here and see how everything was going with you and preparing for the move etc. Hope you're hanging in there.

 

[jmskinner]

Okay a little envious of the papers to the DC area! If I had to leave Florida, that would be the location I would want!! I have friends in the Marines stationed there and it is their 3rd time to be located in the DC area. She loves it!!

Good luck on the sell of the house....wish I could move to Florida!!

We will be in Disney the weekend after you hit SSW!!

Sorry I am going to miss ya. We will head back ourselves the weekend of the 3rd to get our free Star Tours Lanyard they are offering for AP holders. About time they do something for us AP holders. (Sorry, they haven't done anything in awhile and they use to have something about once a month.)

I am very excited about DC. We leave to go househunting in 3 weeks. We are looking in the Loudoun County area. I like Florida, but as soon as I heard DC, I got very excited. I really did love that area and so miss seeing the trees turn and all the different seasons.

Sadly, probably won't be selling the house here. The market is really, really bad. I knew it was bad, but man is it bad. Good for those wanting to buy a home.

hey catching up over here, read the last day of your couple trip, need to go back and read the rest. can't wait to find out if you made that last tour

At the rate I'm going everyones going to think I'm still trying to make that tour.

Okay...been feeling REALLY REALLY REALLY guilty that I haven't done anything about our BFF trip...and now I see you haven't had much time for trip-reporting, either!

However, I'm thinking I might start it soon...how's your free time?

I've been thinking about that TR. Good to see you out here. Get it started and it will make me move on this one. Just haven't been on the Dis much. Think I am preparing myself for the WDW withdrawals.

Miss seeing you on FB! Wanted to stop by here and see how everything was going with you and preparing for the move etc. Hope you're hanging in there.

Hey girl! Been wondering about you, miss seeing you on FB. I've been making myself not get on it as much as I use to. Also, I may send you a PM about your house purchase experience.

It is so great to still see some of you out here. I am so sorry for not doing any updates and just for not Dis'ing. The house is all clean now, but tomorrow the hubby is off work, so we are going to spend the day out and about. Kobe Japanese Steakhouse here we come. Friday we leave for SWW at 6:30am. Yes, per Jonas' request we are taking Jacob out of school. He would never allow me to do that, but for Star Wars he is. Goofy man.

Then next week I am chaperoning the band to Islands of Adventure. We leave about 7:30am and don't get back until after 8. I have a feeling I will be exhausted. Good thing nothing is planned for the following weekend.

Hope everything is well for you all and I really do plan on finishing up my belated anniversary TR and continue with all the other crazy stuff I have done this year.