After 3 years, we went for a visit! Updated 5-27 -It's a Wrap

[llurgy]

While I finished packing the suitcases, Scott (DH) packed the truck, then he went and got the kids out of school early. We left the house at 1:45pm, 15 minutes early. We stopped to pick up Gram and finished loading the truck there. We were off. Traffic was good and we were making good time. The kids and I took a little snooze. I sat in the back with John and Aly and the plan was to have Aly in the middle in her car seat. Now, we have had this truck for 7 years and just a couple weeks ago realized that there was not a shoulder belt in the middle of the back seat, so she couldn't be there. Guess who go the middle. Yep, yours truly. The middle is not that comfortable. By the end of the trip I was so glad to get there. We made our first rest stop just the other side of Pensacola. This is when the office called Scott, hunting me. For some reason the front office didn't have my current cell number. After that call, I tried to sew to take my mind off of what was going on back home. I was still working on Aly's shirts to wear. On the drive down, I was working on her High School Musical shirt. We stopped at McDonalds for dinner. Can't remember what town we stopped in.

After dinner we drove some more and Aly and I took another nap. We arrived to Lake City at 9:45pm. We stayed at the Best Western there. It's an older hotel, but kept up rather well and since I had a good rate and we were only there for one night, it worked for us. The breakfast was really good the next morning also.

LOL....Gram and Scott dont look to happy to be photo-ed



Mandy

 

[eyor44]

LOL....Gram and Scott dont look to happy to be photo-ed



Mandy

I know, what a happy bunch I had with me. It gets better.

 

[eyor44]

We got up early, had breakfast at the hotel and hit the road. I was sewing again and the kids were watching movies. We stopped once on the through-way and arrived to the Wilderness Lodge by 11:00am. When we entered Disney Property I called the scooter rental company, (Randy's) to let them know we had arrived per instructions. "Your an hour early", he says. He obviously doesn't know me. I told him any time for delivery would be fine, just letting them know we were there. The hotel is lovely and everyone was excited to be there. One of the few not so magical things happened when checking in. I had requested connecting rooms as Gram has balancing issues and was just getting over a broken arm. (She fell on her front porch and had a hard time getting to the phone to call someone.) They told me it was impossible as they were sold out but we would be next to each other. I had it added to my reservation, I called and I sent a fax just as instructed. The desk manager came over and said that I should have called some special office and they would have sent a note and then he would have to give us connecting rooms. I did ask what was the difference. IF they were sold out, then what would my calling some other office had done? He said they would have made him give us connecting rooms? We just made some adjustments in how we stayed in the rooms. Aly and I ended up staying in the room with Gram.
Second problem. Gram snores, loudly, and I am a very light sleeper. She didn't sleep well the entire week, so neither did I. One of the few reasons I was glad to go home. Normally I would chalk this up as a lesson learned, but it didn't help that one of our rooms was a connecting room and the family in the other room was there for the same lenght of time we were. and they couldn't put us in that room? Oh well.
On the way to the room, we stopped for a picture in the lobby.

These little guys were waiting for us. I didn't know they were tooth brush holders. The mousekeeper had to show me.

Before we had even finished unpacking the truck, the scooter arrived. Yeah!
We finished unpacking and had lunch at the food court before hitting our first park. We had the Deluxe Dining Plan and it was worth it for us. Lots of food and we did have a few meals left over, but it was nice not worrying about what something cost.
After lunch, off to the buses and Magic Kingdom.

First, we had to get Gram on the bus.

We have arrived. See, everyone looks happier now.

First ride? Carousel of Progress. We all love it.

and after that? Get Aly a Mickey Bar!

then we see Tigger and Pooh by Pooh's Garden

and then off to Dumbo. The wait wasn't really that long. About 20 minutes.

for dinner, we went to the Crystal Palace. We all really enjoyed the food and the fun.

I had been playing phone tag with Tabi all afternoon to pick up the stroller that we were sharing. She brought it to us right at the end of dinner. Her daughter is just adorable. The link to the stroller swap is in my siggie if anyone is interested.

after dinner we rode a few more rides and then went back to the WL. We discovered the mousekeeper had been back by. Aly's friends were riding in a canoe.

A great ending to the first day.

 

[llurgy]

We got up early, had breakfast at the hotel and hit the road. I was sewing again and the kids were watching movies. We stopped once on the through-way and arrived to the Wilderness Lodge by 11:00am. When we entered Disney Property I called the scooter rental company, (Randy's) to let them know we had arrived per instructions. "Your an hour early", he says. He obviously doesn't know me. I told him any time for delivery would be fine, just letting them know we were there. The hotel is lovely and everyone was excited to be there. One of the few not so magical things happened when checking in. I had requested connecting rooms as Gram has balancing issues and was just getting over a broken arm. (She fell on her front porch and had a hard time getting to the phone to call someone.) They told me it was impossible as they were sold out but we would be next to each other. I had it added to my reservation, I called and I sent a fax just as instructed. The desk manager came over and said that I should have called some special office and they would have sent a note and then he would have to give us connecting rooms. I did ask what was the difference. IF they were sold out, then what would my calling some other office had done? He said they would have made him give us connecting rooms? We just made some adjustments in how we stayed in the rooms. Aly and I ended up staying in the room with Gram.
Second problem. Gram snores, loudly, and I am a very light sleeper. She didn't sleep well the entire week, so neither did I. One of the few reasons I was glad to go home. Normally I would chalk this up as a lesson learned, but it didn't help that one of our rooms was a connecting room and the family in the other room was there for the same lenght of time we were. and they couldn't put us in that room? Oh well.
On the way to the room, we stopped for a picture in the lobby.

These little guys were waiting for us. I didn't know they were tooth brush holders. The mousekeeper had to show me.

Before we had even finished unpacking the truck, the scooter arrived. Yeah!
We finished unpacking and had lunch at the food court before hitting our first park. We had the Deluxe Dining Plan and it was worth it for us. Lots of food and we did have a few meals left over, but it was nice not worrying about what something cost.
After lunch, off to the buses and Magic Kingdom.

First, we had to get Gram on the bus.

We have arrived. See, everyone looks happier now.

First ride? Carousel of Progress. We all love it.

and after that? Get Aly a Mickey Bar!

then we see Tigger and Pooh by Pooh's Garden

and then off to Dumbo. The wait wasn't really that long. About 20 minutes.

for dinner, we went to the Crystal Palace. We all really enjoyed the food and the fun.

I had been playing phone tag with Tabi all afternoon to pick up the stroller that we were sharing. She brought it to us right at the end of dinner. Her daughter is just adorable. The link to the stroller swap is in my siggie if anyone is interested.

after dinner we rode a few more rides and then went back to the WL. We discovered the mousekeeper had been back by. Aly's friends were riding in a canoe.

A great ending to the first day.

Its a shame that there was a mix up with the connecting rooms and everything, especially when you had done everything that was required of you to get it just right.
You never feel on top of the world if you are not getting enough sleep.

Glad to see the park day went well and that everyone enmjoyed themselves, smiling faces all over

I love the things that the Mousekeepers do with the towels, lol, I wonder if they ever run out of ideas? Luv the toothbrush thingy-mi-jigs too, they are novel.

Character piccies......awwwww......Me just adores Eyeore, I wanna take him home with me.

 

[eyor44]

Day three brought us to Hollywood Studios. I am still getting used to the new name. We had an early morning breakfast at Hollywood and Vine. The bus picked us up and was suppose to go to a couple other resorts. At the first one no one else got on so the driver asked if we had breakfast reservations. We said yes, and she said, "Well, you have just acquired yourselves a private bus" and took us directly there without going to any other resorts. How nice it is to enter the parks without hardly anyone else there. Only problem, I was always rushing us to the restaurant so we didn't get time to stroll and look. I am going to work on that next trip. I really need to slow down.

Inside Hollywood & Vine

Goliath came for Aly to dance with him

After a wonderful breakfast we rode the new Toy Story ride. It was fun. We had to wait for a special car for Gram to ride in. It was really neat the way they brought it over to us. Then we went our seperate ways for a while so Scott and John could ride ToT and Rockin Roller Coaster.
Aly saw Lilo and Stitch

Stitch kept taking her hair ribbon out of her hair. I fussed, but he didn't seem too sorry.

I tried to convince Aly to see Playhouse Disney but she wouldn't for some reason. We did see Quincey and June outside.

Then one of the highlights of the trip. I made Aly an outfit like the cheerleader outfits worn in HSM 3. She absolutely loves HSM and knows all of the songs. (I do too from listening to them so much in the car.) I didn't tell her much about the show as I didn't want her to get her hopes up. But when they came around I was able to get her front and center. While she was bouncing and singing one of the girls came and got her to dance with them.

She was THRILLED.
After all that dancing she needed refresment.

We did some rides, Star Tours, Muppets, BackLot Tour (John tried to volunteer but you have to be 16) One Man's Dream (I love that), and the Great Movie Ride.

John's shirt I made.

Then we had an early dinner at the Brown Derby. I liked it. The food was good and the restaurant impressive. The service was slow. Really slow. Just our server though. There were people who were in after us and left before us. The server never had to wait for us to make a decision nor did we ask for anything "special". A couple of times we were just sitting with empty plates, waiting. Once the manager even walked by and asked if everything was okay. I don't think that was a good thing. We did the Fantasmic dinner package and thought we would have plenty of time after dinner, but before the show to use our fastpasses for ToT, but it didn't work out that way. Finally I sent Scott and John to ride while I took care of the check, which I had to ask for twice. When the waiter finally brought it, he didn't have our cards with him. He left the checks, we had to wait for him to come back to get them and then go back for our cards. When I asked where our cards were he said he kept them to run them again for the tip. I explained I always tip in cash. For me, that was the last straw. Off he goes again to get our cards. Where he left them I have no idea. Now I normally tip well, but I believe a tip is earned based on service given. He did not receive a good tip and I wrote a note as to why. Then off we went to Fantasmic!

Up,up,up the hill and into the stroller parking and then to our "special" seats. After we sat down, we had a few minutes, so I decided to straighten up my bag. First I got out the glow braclets I had brought for Aly and let her pass out the extras to children around us. Everyone was thrilled to get them and couldn't believe we were sharing. ($1 a container of 15 at Target, what a bargain and crowd pleaser) Then I realized I didn't have my card with me. I searched every where. Not in my pockets, not in my bag. So, I figured it must have fallen out in the stroller. So I explained to the CM at the rope and he said go look and come back to him, he would let me in. To the stroller and it has moved. Found the stroller and no card. I had left it at the restaurant,... with the waiter ....with the bad tip. Oh great! I had to explain to the CM at the gate what had happened and she said to go but I might not be able to come back in. Whatever. I had to find my card. I stopped half way down the hill to search my bag again. I never leave my cards. Glasses yes,... keys, it's happened. But never a card. A CM walked over and asked what was wrong. I explained again. She to me to come back in the CM entrance and she would bring me back when I returned. Precious girl. I won't give her name out, don't want her to get in trouble. But this is Disney magic I have come to expect. Off I run to the restaurant and then meekly to the Hostess table. I just know they all know I left a bad tip and now them are holding my card hostage. Would you believe she just asked me my name and handed me my card? It was right there waiting for me. Sometimes God smiles on me. I guess he realizes I do try hard. Things just don't work out much. But will I make it back in time for the show. Back down a very crowded street and around to the CM entrance. As I walk through I am just waiting for someone to bust me. When I finally got to the top of the hill, someone different is there and they don't want to let me in. Now I am horrible at remembering names, but this time I did. "Mike said to come back to him when I returned." That was the magic phrase and I was through the gate and made it to my seat right before the show started. Everyone loved it. Very impressive. I'm glad we were at the top, I think you can see more from up there.
After the show we waited for the crowd to clear a bit and then I went to find the stroller. It had been moved again. After a couple minutes of searching and hearing lots of muttering, I finally announced very loudly, "Oh let's just all grab one, they all serve the same purpose." A few people laughed, but one woman looked so horrified.
I finally found mine and everyone was relieved that their strollers were safe.
Then we rode ToT one more time. I have to mention that this trip was a lot of firsts for me. This was the first trip I ever rode ToT. I loved it. I do think the ride is much too short. After that, we made our way to the buses and back to WL.
What did we find when we got there?

A towel indian!
Aly was so excited that I wrote the mousekeeper a note thanking her and I did leave her a tip.
End of day three, tomorrow....Epcot and the Princess breakfast.

 

[llurgy]

I had to LOL when you wrote about the bad service and the poor tip, well not the bad service and poor tip but the having to show your face again after leaving the poor tip......Poor you!! Worst nightmare.

I was relieved that they finally let you in to see the show, I was scared that you would have to wait outside for the duration.

TOT.....You are a braver person than I

I just love the stuff the Mousekeepers do

 

[eyor44]

I had to LOL when you wrote about the bad service and the poor tip, well not the bad service and poor tip but the having to show your face again after leaving the poor tip......Poor you!! Worst nightmare.

Yes, if it is going to happen, it is going to happen to me. But the good thing out of it was walking so much and so faster I worked off the fabulous dinner I had just eaten.

and I was already planning what I would do if they wouldn't let me back in. Ride TOT over and over until the show was done. I am actually quite afraid of heights. I don't mind the up and down and dropping, I just never was comfortable with the doors opening up so high. If I can't see it I am fine. I'm no good on roller coasters. I love the speed and loops, but not the clack, clack, clack, going up the hill. Rockin Roller Coaster is great as it starts off fast at the bottom, but I can't handle how fast it actually takes off. Messes up my equilibrium (?).

I often drive to Houston on I-10 and have to go over a couple of high bridges. Tried taking detours once and just ended up on narrower but just as high bridges. I just get in the middle lane, hold on tight, focus......and pray. Once I got stuck on the top of the Baton Rouge bridge. The very top. At least I was in the middle, but I just kept thinking it was a very looooooong way down. My grandmother was becoming a bit concerned about me. Thankfully we started moving again before the panic attack became full blown.

 

[eyor44]

Day Four, Monday, had us going to Epcot. I had a reservation at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall for the Princess Breakfast for Aly, Gram and myself. Scott and John were not included in this one as so many princesses + plus Scott with a camera = embrassment for John. I let them off. We were out to the bus in plenty of time, but for some reason the wait was very long. When the bus arrived I told the driver we had a breakfast reservation as instructed, but he insisted that he had to go to two other resorts first. One we sat and waited and waited but no one got on. Not sure what we were waiting for. Everyone who has ridden a bus to Epcot knows there is a bit of a walk from the bus stop to the entrance gate. At the gate the breakfast reservation entrance was on the far side. We had to wait behind a lady whose reservation wasn't for a full hour, but was arguing to be let in. We finally got in and the walk was much further than I remembered. Now remember Gram is on a scooter and I had to wait for her. She said she was shaking and tired by the time we got there because "we" were "walking" so fast. Yeah. I checked in and then took Aly to the restroom to change into her Belle dress. It was chilly out and she opted for pants for the ride over. As soon as we came out they had us get in line for pics w/Belle. How wonderful those came out. I only wish they would have added them to the photopass. I understand the picture package comes with the meal, but I would have liked to of shared them. Here is what I took.

Belle was so sweet to Aly. Of course, she asked had Aly been in her closet and found her (Belle's) dress from when she was a little girl. Aly didn't know what to think about that. Then Belle reassured her it was okay that she was very happy Aly chose to wear a dress alike so they could match.

During breakfast this is who we saw:
Sleeping Beauty

Snow White

Jasmine

Mulan

Scott and John chose Test Track as their first ride of the day and then they made their way to Mission Space.

After that we met up to get Fast passes for Soarin and then rode The Seas with Nemo and Friends. We went from there over to Universe of Energy. As we were leaving the stroller parking in front of Nemo I saw another Diser. I noticed the green Mickey Head on the stroller, but alas did not introduce myself. Not sure why I do that. But she was with a large family group and they were all wearing red shirts. So if you happen to read this, HI!
We rode Ellen's Energy Adventure and at the very end where it's the last quesion of the Jepordy game, the film stops. I mean just as Ellen is about to give her answer the film stops and they can't get it back on. So one of the CM's finished the show.
We debated what to do next and Aly decided she was tired and wanted to go back to the room for a while. Not unusual, it means she is bored and more likely tired of the crowds. I told her we had to do one more thing before we left. She and I made our way over to Innoventions West to look for the special photo meet and greet they have for Disney CC holders. We found it and had a bit of a wait, but talked to a really nice family and watched a group learn how to use Segways. Those look neat, I would like to try it one day. Aly didn't know what we were waiting for. It's really neat how they do it. You wait in line and they have you go in the room one family at a time. You do have to show your card for entrance. There is a photographer in there who starts snapping pics as soon as you enter the room. They don't tell you who is in there so you are completely surprised.

This is who we saw

I was allowed to take several pictures and so did the photopass photographer. They did not rush us at all. I went to the photopass pickup and was allowed to choose one 5x7 for free. I love free stuff.

On the way to the bus we needed a snack. What do you think Aly chose?

We got back to the hotel without incident and much slower than when we arrived. After a bit of rest Aly begged to go into the pool.

She loves pools and slides. I didn't go in, but stayed right at the edge. There are life guards everywhere.
Now here is something no one has mentioned about the Wilderness Lodge, at least not that I have found. Every day at 3:00 (sharp mind you) they have a pool party. Complete with games and music and dancing. We had seen an area roped off with a sign that said "Pool Party" the day before, but thought maybe someone had reserved an area for something special. Should have asked. See, our room was on the lower level at the end right by the pool. It was very quiet when we arrived and at night even with the bar right there. We didn't think any thing of it. Until they decided to set up the pool party right outside our room. And one of the lifeguards had a bull horn. Not the way to be woken from a nap for sure. Should you ever stay at the Wilderness Lodge and like to go back to the hotel for a mid day nap you do not want to stay on the lower level pool side by the bar.
After Aly's brief swim (it was still chilly) we got dressed to go back and meet everyone at Epcot for dinner. We ate at the Garden Grill. We had a bit of a wait after checking in and then sat on the upper level. It was different and the food was okay. We all had plenty to eat.
Here is who we saw.

When Mickey came by he got Aly's word search and challenged John to a game. It was fun and I was amazed he took so much time at our table. Mickey won. John complained that Mickey had an unfair advantage, that he probably did the same one every day, we just told John he needed to pay more attention in English. Mickey agreed.

After dinner we decided to go back to the hotel for the rest of the evening.
Next up: Islands of Adventure and Universal. Toto, we weren't in Disney any more.

*I couldn't get all of my pics loaded from photo pass today, something is up with the site, so I'll try to finish tomorrow.

 

[MrsHeg]

Day Four, Monday, had us going to Epcot. I had a reservation at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall for the Princess Breakfast for Aly, Gram and myself. Scott and John were not included in this one as so many princesses + plus Scott with a camera = embrassment for John. I let them off. We were out to the bus in plenty of time, but for some reason the wait was very long. When the bus arrived I told the driver we had a breakfast reservation as instructed, but he insisted that he had to go to two other resorts first. One we sat and waited and waited but no one got on. Not sure what we were waiting for. Everyone who has ridden a bus to Epcot knows there is a bit of a walk from the bus stop to the entrance gate. At the gate the breakfast reservation entrance was on the far side. We had to wait behind a lady whose reservation wasn't for a full hour, but was arguing to be let in. We finally got in and the walk was much further than I remembered. Now remember Gram is on a scooter and I had to wait for her. She said she was shaking and tired by the time we got there because "we" were "walking" so fast. Yeah. I checked in and then took Aly to the restroom to change into her Belle dress. It was chilly out and she opted for pants for the ride over. As soon as we came out they had us get in line for pics w/Belle. How wonderful those came out. I only wish they would have added them to the photopass. I understand the picture package comes with the meal, but I would have liked to of shared them. Here is what I took.

Belle was so sweet to Aly. Of course, she asked had Aly been in her closet and found her (Belle's) dress from when she was a little girl. Aly didn't know what to think about that. Then Belle reassured her it was okay that she was very happy Aly chose to wear a dress alike so they could match.

During breakfast this is who we saw:
Sleeping Beauty

Snow White

Jasmine

Mulan

Scott and John chose Test Track as their first ride of the day and then they made their way to Mission Space.

After that we met up to get Fast passes for Soarin and then rode The Seas with Nemo and Friends. We went from there over to Universe of Energy. As we were leaving the stroller parking in front of Nemo I saw another Diser. I noticed the green Mickey Head on the stroller, but alas did not introduce myself. Not sure why I do that. But she was with a large family group and they were all wearing red shirts. So if you happen to read this, HI!
We rode Ellen's Energy Adventure and at the very end where it's the last quesion of the Jepordy game, the film stops. I mean just as Ellen is about to give her answer the film stops and they can't get it back on. So one of the CM's finished the show.
We debated what to do next and Aly decided she was tired and wanted to go back to the room for a while. Not unusual, it means she is bored and more likely tired of the crowds. I told her we had to do one more thing before we left. She and I made our way over to Innoventions West to look for the special photo meet and greet they have for Disney CC holders. We found it and had a bit of a wait, but talked to a really nice family and watched a group learn how to use Segways. Those look neat, I would like to try it one day. Aly didn't know what we were waiting for. It's really neat how they do it. You wait in line and they have you go in the room one family at a time. You do have to show your card for entrance. There is a photographer in there who starts snapping pics as soon as you enter the room. They don't tell you who is in there so you are completely surprised.

This is who we saw

I was allowed to take several pictures and so did the photopass photographer. They did not rush us at all. I went to the photopass pickup and was allowed to choose one 5x7 for free. I love free stuff.

On the way to the bus we needed a snack. What do you think Aly chose?

We got back to the hotel without incident and much slower than when we arrived. After a bit of rest Aly begged to go into the pool.

She loves pools and slides. I didn't go in, but stayed right at the edge. There are life guards everywhere.
Now here is something no one has mentioned about the Wilderness Lodge, at least not that I have found. Every day at 3:00 (sharp mind you) they have a pool party. Complete with games and music and dancing. We had seen an area roped off with a sign that said "Pool Party" the day before, but thought maybe someone had reserved an area for something special. Should have asked. See, our room was on the lower level at the end right by the pool. It was very quiet when we arrived and at night even with the bar right there. We didn't think any thing of it. Until they decided to set up the pool party right outside our room. And one of the lifeguards had a bull horn. Not the way to be woken from a nap for sure. Should you ever stay at the Wilderness Lodge and like to go back to the hotel for a mid day nap you do not want to stay on the lower level pool side by the bar.
After Aly's brief swim (it was still chilly) we got dressed to go back and meet everyone at Epcot for dinner. We ate at the Garden Grill. We had a bit of a wait after checking in and then sat on the upper level. It was different and the food was okay. We all had plenty to eat.
Here is who we saw.

When Mickey came by he got Aly's word search and challenged John to a game. It was fun and I was amazed he took so much time at our table. Mickey won. John complained that Mickey had an unfair advantage, that he probably did the same one every day, we just told John he needed to pay more attention in English. Mickey agreed.

After dinner we decided to go back to the hotel for the rest of the evening.
Next up: Islands of Adventure and Universal. Toto, we weren't in Disney any more.

*I couldn't get all of my pics loaded from photo pass today, something is up with the site, so I'll try to finish tomorrow.

Great report, I love all your ideas for making "Disney" money.

 

[eyor44]

Great report, I love all your ideas for making "Disney" money.

Thanks, and thanks for stopping by. I am going to look for your trip report.

 

[eyor44]

Today is the day we took a break from Disney (DH insisted) and visited Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.I wasn't quite sure how long it would take us to get there and we didn't get as early of a start as I would have liked. Good thing since the park opened a full hour later than I thought it did.

The first park we decided to visit was Islands of Adventure. We first stopped at the ticket booth to pick up the Express Plus passes I had purchased on line. These are like fast passes except you pay for them, but they get you to the front of the line on most of the popular rides. Funny thing was, the parks were so empty we really didn't need them, but with doing both parks in one day, I wanted to make sure we got to do all the big stuff.
First ride, Spiderman. It was fun as usual. After Spiderman, we split up with Scott and John doing all the roller coasters while Gram and I took Aly to the kids area.
Suess Landing

Showing off purse Mom made to match her shirt.

Aly rode Caro-Seuss-el

Then we rode The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride; One fish, Two fish; and the Cat in the Hat.
While we were in Seuss Landing we saw a litte thief attempting to steal some candy. I tried to get cashier's attention, but she didn't seem to understand what I was saying. Here is the thief:

The door was open to the shop and this little guy just scurried right in and climbed up the candy shelf. The first shelf held Skittles. He sniffed around and then went to the next shelf which held the Snickers. He grabbed one and started out the door. Since the cashier just stared at me in disbelief, I grabbed my camera for a picture. As I was following the squirrel a manager came around the corner and stopped. The squirrel stopped, looked at him and went off into the bushes with his prize. After I explaine what had happened the manager wanted to know how the squirrel knew which ones had nuts in them. My guess, he could smell them.
Next we walked around a bit waiting for the guys to ride the coasters. We ended up in Toon Landing. Aly decided she wanted to ride a water ride. She and Scott rode Popeye and Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges.

They got a bit wet.

Thankfully I always carry extra clothes.
While Scott and John rode the Hulk one more time, we waited for them by the entrance. Some neat photo ops.

Then it was time for lunch and we ate at Margaritaville in the City Walk. We had a 1:00pm ressie, but at 11:30 were able to walk right up and be seated. The atmosphere and food was great. We will definitly go back.
John found his "lost shaker of salt"

After lunch we headed to Universal Studios. It was a bit more crowded here, but with our Express Plus passes we were able to do everything. We rode all of our old favorites and a couple new ones. We even saw Barney.

We were in the KidZone area waiting for the Barney Show. First Aly wanted a Mickey Bar. I had to explain that Mickey Bars are only at Disney, so we looked for the next best thing, a Dove Bar. Cart after cart had a picture of Dove Bars but didn't have any in stock. After one particular rude cashier, I made the comment "Toto, we certainly aren't in Disney today". That didn't when me any awards just a really dirty look. One thing Universal does have that Disney doesn't is an indoor playground. It's not real big but enough to occupy the kids for a little while. Aly and I were to the back of the playground by the doors that you exit after the show. I heard the door open and looked around a tree to see what was going on. Who should stand there but Barney. He waved and I waved back. I got Aly off of the slide and whispered for her to go look around the tree. She was so excited (don't tell any of her friends, she'll deny it). She got a private meet and greet with Barney. After that we went to find Gram and got in line for the show. Now this is the funny thing. A large group of people who couldn't really speak English were in line and doing all kinds of pushing to get in the front. The stage is in the middle with seats all the way around. The show is interactive with all the original Barney songs. Aly and I were the only ones who knew all of the songs and sang and danced along. People were looking at us like we were crazy. They just kept screaming "Barney, over here, over here" like they were at a rock concert. And they thought we were crazy.
The last ride of the day was ET. It was great as always.

We ended up leaving the Universal area around 5:00pm. Both parks and a sit down meal and it was only 5:00. We went back to the hotel for dinner as we didn't have an ADR for that night. I really thought we would be there longer. MK was open for a late EMH so John was campaigning to go there. It was cold and we didn't want Aly out late as we had a big day planned for tomorrow. So being the good mom I am, I agreed to go with him for a little while.

A little while turned into a long while. Who would have thought it would be so crowded so late. Finally he wanted to ride Space Mountain. I don't ride Space Mountain, but the wait wasn't too long, so I told him to go ahead and I would ride the TTA and then the Carosuel of Progress. I figured both rides would be warm. The TTA broke down for some reason and wasn't real warm. I kind of closed my eyes enjoying the quiet when all of the sudden I heard, "Please remain seated" and it wasn't the usual TTA voice that you here. The people in front of me were trying to change seats or something. One of them started to stand up again and we heard louder "PLEASE remain seated". Then the ride started back up and it really isn't that warm of a ride after all. So I decided to go to the CoP. Now that was nice and warm and not too crowded. I found a seat right in the middle of the back row. I love CoP. I got all comfy and started singing along. Then we moved to the second scene and I hummed along. I don't remember going to the third scene and any after that. The next thing I knew a CM was waking me up going "Ma'am, I'm sorry, but it is time for us to close the ride now". Yup, you got it. I had fallen asleep. The CM assured me though. When they realized that I was asleep, they just left me there and didn't put anyone else in that part of the theater. How's that for Disney taking care of their guests? How long did I sleep? About 40 minutes. But it seems, I'm not the first one to fall asleep in there. When I came out John was there going "Why weren't you answering your phone?" Oh, the laugh he had.
Trying riding BTMRR in the dark, it's really great that way and the Haunted Mansion even seems different. That was the end of that very long day. I was really glad to get to bed that night.

 

[MrsHeg]

Thanks, and thanks for stopping by. I am going to look for your trip report.

There is a link in my signature, it's mostly cut off but still there.

 

[eyor44]

you know what it's like to type for an hour and then have it all disappear? That's what just happened to me and I can't figure out why. I'll try again tomorrow and will type it in sections. I was trying to do the whole day in one and I had a lot to say. Maybe it was too long.

 

[lovesdumbo]

Aly's friends were riding in a canoe.

A great ending to the first day.

Enjoying your TR! Love the towel canoe!!!

Your HSM outfit was adorable too!

 

[eyor44]

If anyone happens to stumble over here and read's this and you are a praying person, please read this trip report and pray for a very special little girl.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1979336

 

[eyor44]

I am going to try this again, but do this day in stages. I think maybe I had too many pictures the first time.

Day Six had us going to Magic Kingdom and it was The Day. The day of our special visit to the Castle. The day I had planned so carefully so my little princess could have the full "princess" experience. And guess what. She didn't want to go. I made up an invitation and had it in the room the night before. I read it to her, she got very upset and said "No Thanks, I don't want to go." I'm thinking she just didn't understand what it was all about. She begged me to call and cancel. I told her castles don't have phones, so we would have to go by there in the morning and cancel in person.
I was determined that we would not be late today. We all got to the bus stop about 7:00 and were taken straight to MK. We were the second family in line at 7:20. About 7:40 we were let through the ticket counter and into another line that began at the train bridge. We were still second family in line. At 7:50 we were allowed into the MK. What surprized me here was that there weren't any CMs checking a list to see if you had an ADR before the park opened. There also weren't any PP Photographers out. That was a bit of a disappointment. We did take this photo.

We split here and John and Scott went to the Crystal Palace for breakfast while Aly, Gram and I went to the Castle. We were first in line at the Boutique door. Aly kept saying she wasn't going to do it, but then 5 ladies came up behind us with a little girl Aly's same age and they were all very excited about it. A little of their excitement may have rubbed off on her. When the door finally opened she was in awe of the place. She was handed her hairstyle brochure and taken to the princess closet. When she saw the shoes, she was in heaven. I told her to get shoes, she had to pick out the whole outfit. She finally chose the red Belle dress. We were taken back to the dressing rooms and they did the presentation for Aly along with the little girl who had been behind us at the door. Here she is in the dressing room.

We had to change to the yellow Belle dress as the red one was itchy.

Changing dresses wasn't a problem. I got a peek in the store room and you should have seen all of the princess dresses!

Next Aly was taken to her Fairy God Mother-In-Training. I love how everyone curtsies and speaks to the children. It really adds to the allusion.

She looks happier now.

then it was time for makeup and nails. She didn't want makeup, but was excited about nail polish.

a little pixie dust.....

the sash...

and the reveal.....

and Lourdes....Aly's wonderful FGMIT...

The we walked across the castle breezeway and were just in time to check in for breakfast. We were at the front of the line for pictures when Aly needed a restroom. Princess dresses are very tricky. When we came out, we were at the end of the line. Our table was ready before we were. Finally Aly got to meet Cinderella.

Then upstairs to the dining room.

The food was good. Just right for us.
Jasmine stopped by. I really liked this Jasmine. She got Aly up and twirled her around. Told her how beautiful she looked in Belle's dress. Then she got Aly to pose like her.

Then we saw Belle. She looked at Aly and said "So that's where my dress was this morning. You got it before I could." Aly looked a little puzzled and said, "No, remember? This is one of your dresses from when you were little." Good thing Belle "remembered' their conversation for a couple days before.

We also saw Aurora and Snow White.

After Breakfast Aly wanted to change because she was getting itchy. I remembered what Maroo had said Lauren did of putting a tshirt on under her tink outfit, so we went to Tinkerbelle's Treasure and I was able to get a yellow Belle tshirt. Problem solved. Thanks Maroo!
We rode a few rides and every where we went people were telling Aly how pretty she was.

 

[eyor44]

After we left the castle, we met up with Dad who was very appreciative of his princess. We rode Small World and a few others in FantasyLand, then Dad went for a few rides with John and we decided to have lunch at Cosmic Rays. On our way to lunch we passed by Belle's Garden. A CM greeted us out front and invited us into the garden. He said "Come meet the Evil Step-Mother and Step-Sisters. Just as Aly was getting out of the stroller, the Step-Mother walked to the front of the stage and said, "Don't tell them that. I don't want them to come in here." Aly sat down fast and said "I'm not going in there. She's mean." Nothing the CM nor I could say would make her change her mind.
So we went on to lunch. Boy was Cosmic Ray's busy. So busy there was a line queued outside to get in. I went around by the doors facing Space Mountain and got in right before they closed those doors and made them exit only. I found a table while Scott stood in line for food. Was it ever crowded. When I went for my food, I went all the way back by the doors that I entered. The chicken & ribs line. The one all the way to the left was EMPTY! I didn't have to stand in line. I asked for a water instead of dessert and of course, I had a new CM who didn't know but was willing to ask. He stepped over to the next CM and wasn't gone more than 10 seconds when another CM (a manager I think) walked up and apologized that I was waiting so long and offered to finish my order. When I again asked for a water instead of dessert he said, "Of course you may. Anything is possible at Disney World." That's my kind of CM!
After lunch, Scott and John went to do something, can't remember what and we agreed to meet up front as we still hadn't done Aly's pictures and the portrait studio. We had to wait a few minutes, but it wasn't bad. It wasn't crowded and it was quiet, so it was a nice break.
Aly wasn't into it too much at first.

we kept getting the fake smile

I just wasn't happy and couldn't figure out what to do when another photographer walked up. It was time for shift change. I asked him to stand behind the photographer taking pictures and make faces at her. I wanted som real smiles and she just wasn't responding.
This is what we got.

It's not that the other photographer wasn't good, he was, he took great pics, sometimes Aly just needs a little something extra to help her relax and respond. I'm just grateful the second one walked up when he did.
I got the portrait packege and we went outside to wait for Scott and John. While we were there, a CM walked over and started talking to Aly. Now all day people had been talking to her, telling her what a beautifu princess she was. One CM even stopped an entire group of people when I was waiting to cross a side walk. He held up his hands and called out. "Stop, everyone must stop. Make way for the princess." He bowed real low to her and then "escorted" us across the sidewalk. Aly was embarrassed by all the commotion. So when this new CM started talking to her, she wouldn't answer him. I finally told him, that I have trained her so well, not to talk to strangers, that she won't even when I am there. He looked at Aly and said "and we are just all in your face all the time, aren't we?" This she answers yes to.
Well, he asked her who her favorite princess was and she answered Belle. (She was dressed as Belle) The CM says, "guess what, I'm friends with Cinderella. Do you like Cinderella?" Of course, she says yes. Then he asked if she would like to meet Cinderella. Aly says "Oh, I already met her at breakfast." He then says he is really good friends with Cinderella and can arrange a private meet and greet for us. (Yes, we were talking to a Dream Wisher CM.) I knew this, but just thought he was passing the time talking to us. I told him, we love to, but we were waiting for DH & DS and they would be along any minute. No problem, we'll wait for them. They arrive, another CM arrives and off we go.

Aly was so happy.
Cinderella asked Aly if John was her prince. She answered, "no, he's my brother. He's a beast."

After Cinderella, we went back to the WL for a swim and rest.

 

[eyor44]

For dinner, we had an ADR at Liberty Tree Tavern. They were running a bit behind so we had to wait about 20 minutes past our ADR time. We were seated near the kitchen and the characters starting coming 'round right away.

Pluto messing up Gram's hair

We were not very impressed by LTT. The food was okay, but the service just wasn't there. We were right by the kitchen, yet our server kept disappearing. It wasn't like he could avoid us. We weren't sure what was going on, we just didn't see much of him. So things like refills on drinks and food didn't really happen.
After dinner we rode BTMRR a couple of times. (Aly is a convert now.) and John and I decided to go to Animal Kingdom. AK was having late hours. Scott, Aly and Gram stayed at MK to watch the fireworks.
It was another cold night.

In my defense, Disney World is not a fashion show. Since I am not allowed to go into any more warm rides at night, I figured I better dress warmly.

We saw Stitch who said John is a bit crazy.

First ride, Expedition Everest. Now I had watched a couple videos of this ride on You Tube and thought it looked rather tame. Looks can be decieving. We waited in line about 15 minutes. I would have liked to of walked a bit slower through the building, just to be able to see all of the props a bit better. We asked for the back of the train as usual and our wish was granted. We were talking to the CM there and I mentioned the cold. He said "Oh I'm not as cold as you are about to be." I wondered about that statement until we took off. I'm thinking they pump cold air at you when you leave the station. Up, up, up we went. Now I am afraid of heights and I didn't realize just how high it went. We were on the back of the train which doesn't go all the way into the moutain when it stops. We were sitting out in the open and could see for a really loooong way. Then we went backwards. Now that doesn't bother me, but I realized that the back of the train becomes the front of the train. But it was still good. It was a fun ride, but I just don't like the one part where you are sitting so high up. John loved it. I let him ride it again while I went to find something warm to drink. We then rode Dinosaur a couple of times and that was it. There really isn't much going on there at night. I love being able to walk around at night, but it was much to cold. So we went back to the WL. This was on the bed when we got back.

That canoe just kept getting bigger.

 

[eyor44]

Thanksgiving Day. I was very thankful. We were all well and we were at the World!
For breakfast we ate at the Whispering Canyon Cafe. Our waitress was in perfect character and the food was really good. We had an early ADR so we didn't have to wait to be seated or served. When we came out of the cafe a little girl walked up to Aly and asked if she would like her Mickey Ballon. They were leaving and she couldn't take it on the plane. That was very sweet of her. We were leaving to go to a DVC tour so we asked Gram if she would take it to the room for us. Gram was staying at the hotel to rest while we were gone. We went out and the van was waiting to take us to the Saratoga Springs Resort where the DVC office is.
Now Scott has talked about the DVC for years. Doing the math, I really couldn't see how it was cost effective. I didn't know about all the extras (discounts) that come along with it. I discovered that some of our friends are owners and they shared their literature and I did a bit of research. I was sold. The way DH talked, I thought we were going to buy. The kids went to the kids club and we spoke to a representative. Two hours later DH changed his mind. Why? I don't know. other than he wants to put in a pool at home and it would be one or the other but not both right now. We collected the kids, John was not happy. He had been promised video games and they only had one game (bowling, which he likes) but he said another kid hogged the game the whole time he was there. Oh well, at least we got some fast passes to make up for the time we spent. We had just enough time to get back to WL, collect Gram, go to the bus and get to our lunch ADR at Epcot.
When we arrived at WL I went straight to the room and no Gram. The scooter was there, but she was not. So I called her on her cell phone. She was in the lobby, we had passed by her and we didn't see her and she didn't see us. I told her wait there, I was coming with the scooter, we had to get to the bus stop. When I arrived back to the lobby, guess what. Yep, Gram was holding the balloon. When she went back to the room the mousekeeper came by so Gram went to the lobby to wait and fell asleep. (see it runs in the family). I asked why she still had the balloon? She didn't know, she just carried it with her. So, I sent them all to the bus stop and told them to get on the bus and head to Epcot. I would catch up with them. Off, back to the room I went. Then back to the bus stop. On my way, who do I see? Scott and the kids coming out of the game room. Ummmmm, aren't you all suppose to be at the bus stop? DH didn't see the problem in playing a few games since he knew it would take me a few mintues to get to the room and back. Okay well Gram will be at the bus and it takes a few minutes to get her loaded. 'Round the corner...and what is this? The Epcot bus pulling away? and Gram still sitting there.......Oh No!

 

[maroo]

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!

I am loving your TR! How have I missed it!?!?!

I have laughed and laughed. Falling asleep at the CoP? the dream meet with Cindy? You have had some good meals!

Was it just totally crowded?

Aly took AWESOME BBB pictures! I have never seen really good BBB pictures. The kids are always smiling so forced...you know what I mean?


But...Uh...now I need to know where Gram is!?!?!?!