An Instagrammable and Dole Whippy 4th of July Trip Report!**UPDATED 3/4

[DisneyKid4Life]

I am really looking forward to seeing AKL. I think it might be dark by the time I get to it though since it's gets dark so early in December. I hope I can still see some animals.

Awww poor Emme. How terrible to be sick in Disney.

Oooh those chicken tenders look GOOD with the light breading!!!

 

[JulieODC]

Great updates! Love the parade photos --- we never manage to stick around long enough to see the parade.

Those chicken fingers from DTD look delish too!!

 

[rachel09985]

Ok, so about the bats. Those things creep me the F out. (Excuse MY inappropriateness.) I have never stopped long enough to look at them, but seriously, the fact they have full heads of hair is what freaks me out the most. Just NO on so many levels.

Lol, they are creepy and freaky. I have only looked at these because they are caged but when a bat flies over your head outside, that creeps me out!

Great giraffe pictures back at your resort...love those animals.

Our AK day is December 4.

Sorry Emme was sick...hope she got better quick.

Oh, you went to WPE...love that place! We have never done Cookies of Dublin.

And you had my favorite dessert at the ice cream place--Hot Fudge Sundae.

Oh our AK days are different. Hopefully we will still run into each other. That hot fudge sundae is delicious!!!

You are moving right along here!

Loved the AK parade photos - especially the Minnie jeep. Bad Rafiki, terrorizing you when you were a kid!

Kali River Rapids is a shorter version of the California Adventure's Grizzly River Rapids ride. (And includes the eco political stuff that is missing from CA.) I've only ridden it once in all our trips so that should tell you that we're not the biggest fans. It is probably really refreshing on a hot day though.

WPE with Ghiradelli - sounds like the perfect meal!

I hope we get to watch the parade together. The christmas one is better! I probably won't go on it again unless it is the dead of summer. It was fun but too short!

I am really looking forward to seeing AKL. I think it might be dark by the time I get to it though since it's gets dark so early in December. I hope I can still see some animals.

Awww poor Emme. How terrible to be sick in Disney.

Oooh those chicken tenders look GOOD with the light breading!!!

Are having dinner at AKL? Even if you can't see the animals it is worth taking a trip around and even going outside. I know I felt bad for Emme.

Great updates! Love the parade photos --- we never manage to stick around long enough to see the parade.

Those chicken fingers from DTD look delish too!!

I love that parade! It is so small and a little more intimate than the MK parade- I can't wait for the new parade however

 

[rachel09985]

This morning was another MK day. Luckily Emme felt better so they were going to meet us. She spent all night in bed and Patty was up the entire night with her, so she was tired.

We got on the bus to MK at 9:27.



We stopped and got some photos together since we actually looked cute. I skipped the bag today since we planned to leave MK after lunch to swim.



We saw the Dapper Dans pass in their summer gear.

I love this photo!



I stopped and got Starbucks, I believe an iced white mocha and then we made our way to Splash.

The line wasn't too bad.



Of course we went down and got soaked yet again. We have had bad luck with Splash this trip.





We were in the front row and Corey did a superman pose.



Patty and Emme were just getting to the park at this time so we asked if they wanted to ride Big Thunger Mountain with us. They did but needed to stop at Starbucks first. So we went into Adventureland- Corey wanted a dole whip!

I saw Jasmine and Aladdin out so I had to meet them!! Corey sat on a bench right outside with his dole whip of their meet and greet.

I don't even remember what our conversation was but it was hilarious!

They asked if I was alone and I said I was with my boyfriend but he was too busy eating a dole whip. Jasmine and Aladdin then made fun of him and were talking to him through the ropes. It was funny.

This picture Aladdin went up closer to Corey and there is me laughing









I had to get a picture of them. They are so cute.



Patty and Emme showed up right after this and followed us onto Big Thunder. I was worried Emme was going to vomit in my hair lol because they were right behind us! She was fine. She was a little scared but she enjoyed herself. They were sliding all over the seat though.





After Big Thunder we went into New Fantasyland. Patty and Emme went on Little Mermaid while Corey and I walked around.

We goofed around in Gaston's.





Oops- I did take my bag. I take that back!



This chandelier is cool.



then we looked around the gift shop. I looked at their pin board. At AK I traded for an orange bird pin and I am pretty sure it was fake and I realized it after I took it. It was very light and didn't have that metal design on the back. So I wanted to trade it out.

I got this one.



After this it was basically time to eat so we headed to Be Our Guest to eat our lunch!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Wow, I think I am actually starting to get used to the new MK sign colours. At first I just hated it.

Haha, great Splash photo. Superman... and Lois holding on for dear life.

I've heard some great things about the Aladdin and Jasmine meet in MK. Strange that I don't think I've ever met Aladdin.

 

[KatMark]

Sorry we were out of town to see the kids for the weekend and work has been crazy...so slowly catching up.

I really like your photopass pictures.

Smart girl stopping at Starbucks first.

You guys sure got wet on SM a lot this trip.

Love the character interaction with Aladdin and Jasmine...we had a lot of fun with them too.

Glad Emme was okay on Big Thunder.

 

[rachel09985]

Of course the line for Be Our Guest was all the way backed up. But, that was okay, because we didn't have anything else to do.

A few minutes into the line it started to rain pretty hard. Patty was worried about Emme getting wet because of how cold it is in the restaurant. She didn't want her to get sick from being wet and cold. So Emme stood under one of the CMs umbrellas while it rained. It was so cute watching her standing with the CM.

We finally got into the restaurant and I was so excited for Corey to see it, since it was his first time! He really liked the restaurant.

I ordered the croque monsier along with Corey. I also got a strawberry cupcake and corey got a chocolate creme puff.





Corey was really worried about the different kinds of cheese sandwich (he is awfully picky) but he ended up LOVING the sandwich! I love it as well. There is now nutrition facts for BOG lunch and it is scary to see the nutrition in the sandwich.

While we were eating Corey and I were giggling at Emme because she was literally chewing her food for 10 minutes and wouldn't swallow. She must not have been very hungry because she didn't want to swallow that food. We felt so bad because she started to CRY! I felt so bad for making her cry!

Dessert was wonderful! I can't wait to try the master's cupcake.







Another solid counter service meal! I just love this place for lunch.



Since it was time for us to say bye to Patty and Emme, we gave them a parting gift of fastpasses. We all got fastpasses for the Little Mermaid ride so they could go on twice. Patty loved that since it is her favorite ride.

We were leaving the MK for now, but we would be back!



We were heading to the AKL pool! Since I paid all of that money for AKL I had to use the pool!

When we got back to the room we spotted a stow a way!



One of the birds escaped the penned in area! We got to watch the CMS try to get the bird back in. This bird was pretty tall so it was entertaining to watch. You could tell it was kind of dangerous because when the bird made sudden movements the trainers backed away quickly.



This trainer was waving his arms behind the bird to try to get it to go into the gate. There was another training behind the gate calling it.











They finally got him! Quite entertaining to watch this.

It was time to get ready for the pool now. I skipped the sunscreen which was a mistake.

The pool was packed but we found two chairs that were squished in.



I loved the zero entry pool.



I indulged on a mango margarita. I thought it was refreshing but lacking on the foam. I also hate those paper straws.





It was just soo nice by the pool. We were only out for an hour but it just nice to relax and swim a little bit. Swimming after the parks feels amazing!

After the pool we explored a little bit since this was the last pool time we had.







We went to one of the viewing areas to see the animals and there was a CM there who told us lots of interesting facts. He said that they had to cut the grass a certain exact length because one of the animals grazed on a certain length of grass only. After they were done, another animal grazed on their leftovers, because that was a certain length that they ate from. He also told us about the feeding times at certain areas. They do this so the animals get around to all the rooms. It was very interesting.

We said thank you to our informant and went back to our rooms to change for dinner, which was at 'Ohana, our favorite restaurant!

 

[rachel09985]

Wow, I think I am actually starting to get used to the new MK sign colours. At first I just hated it.

Haha, great Splash photo. Superman... and Lois holding on for dear life.

I've heard some great things about the Aladdin and Jasmine meet in MK. Strange that I don't think I've ever met Aladdin.

Yeah I think it is rare to meet Aladdin. I am not sure if he is always there or what. I can't wait to see your poses for your Dec trip!

Sorry we were out of town to see the kids for the weekend and work has been crazy...so slowly catching up.

I really like your photopass pictures.

Smart girl stopping at Starbucks first.

You guys sure got wet on SM a lot this trip.

Love the character interaction with Aladdin and Jasmine...we had a lot of fun with them too.

Glad Emme was okay on Big Thunder.

I know, I can't believe we got so wet every time! They must do something different in the summer, because we were soaked. I think there was only one time we didn't get too wet. Starbucks is delicious! I need that espresso first thing in the morning to get me through.

 

[rachel09985]

After we got ready we wanted to explore a bit in our resort. We also had a photoshoot!



We went across this bridge and it was really neat to look out over the entire resort.

Have I mentioned I love Animal Kingdom Lodge!?? I am staying there again in March!



As you can see, I am little flushed. I got slightly burnt!! It was not enjoyable to carry my bag.





I spy a hidden mickey





I liked this fabric on the wall but the light shone right in my face, so it looks weird.



Out at the bus stop a bus came very quickly for us, which seemed to be the theme of this trip. The disney bus gods were looking down on us.

We took the monorail to the Poly and it was pretty empty.





I checked us in and we were given a pager. I decided to look around a bit in the shop and I found this cute shirts.





I really liked them but I don't have a strong connection the polynesian besides eating there so I passed.

When we got sat we were right by the fire pit, which was kind of nice. The only bad part was we were right by the kitchen entrance.



Bread- I don't care for their bread. I normally have one or two bites and that is it.



Salad- I was so worried about the new salad with the mango dressing but I really enjoyed it. I was in love with the honey lime dressing but this was very good as well. I didn't care for the papayas in the salad.



Small plate of wings and postickers. I don't touch the wings but I eat ALL of the potstickers plus more. When Patty and I go to Ohana in December we are going to need like 6 orders of potstickers because we both love them.



Noodles and veggies- I eat all of the veggies because they are so flavorful and cooked perfectly but once again, I don't touch the noodles. They are way too sweet for me.



Chicken- we both love the chicken here. It is so flavorful and delicious. Corey probably eats like two skewers himself.



Steak- as you can tell, our first round of steak was extremely fatty to the point where it was inedible. I just pushed it aside and asked for more steak.



Shrimp- I am in love with these puppies. I just love their flavor and the fact that they are butterflied now makes it soo nice to take the peel off. Yeah your hands get messy but that is what the towels after are for.



Pork- I am not a fan. It is very dry to me.



Our second round of steak was slightly better fat wise but still well done which is too done for me.



We asked for more steak and this round was perfecttt! I should have asked for more.



You just gotta be picky with the meat here. Keep asking for more because each batch changes with the steak.

And now, our favorite dessert! The bread pudding. We are both obsessed.





When we get ahold of this, it is like we haven't ate in months. We devour it.

All in all a pretty good meal! The steak was a disappointment, but it got better so it is all good. Everything else was great.

On the way out I took photos of the flame pit.



I accidently left my lens cap there, so I had to go back and get it, luckily it was still there.

 

[emmysmommy]

That was wild with that bird on the loose! What a show. Ahhhh relaxing with a drink at the pool. That's one thing we didn't take the time to do while we were at AKL. How exciting that you will be back in March. Gotta get the use out of your AP!

I haven't been to 'Ohana since February so I'm craving that bread pudding. Talk about obsessed, I'll join you on that one.

 

[MEK]

I have to agree that the bread pudding looks plenty fantastic!

So - I am about a month behind on everyone's TRs, but really enjoyed your last update. Since we just stayed at AKL last month count me as another loyal fan. But, I have to agree - the pool was ridiculously crowded. The chairs were covered with more towels than actual people. Rather annoying.

Your drink looks yummy!

An empty monorail?

I will slowly catch up over the night couple weeks!

 

[WDWaddictt]

I love AKL too! Beautiful resort all around, it was hard to leave and go to the parks some days.

I have never been to Ohana but maybe next time we go. It looks so yummy!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

I am actually looking forward to trying BOG for the first time. Thankfully I was able to get a FP+ for it. But I definitely don't want to read the nutrition list. I caught a glimpse and YIKES! It's a good thing it's vacation rules.

I didn't know you already had a March trip booked. And AKL again? Nice!

 

[marDgreen88]

Omg, how crazy about the bird! I'm glad he didn't go crazy and attack the trainer... then you would've REALLY gotten a show. Yikes!

Ahh the beautiful AKL. Lucky you with all these upcoming trips!

Oh my goodness, 'Ohana. I'm obsessed with their potstickers and chicken, too. SO good.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[Britard]

I've heard so many mixed reviews for Ohana at dinnertime. It is nice to know that you can just ask for more and get a different batch. That may make all the difference! Thanks for the tip!

 

[JessicaKnits]

Nom nom nom! I love Ohana and can' wait to go back! What are your dates in March? I will be there till March 5th!

 

[Miss Potts]

Haven't commented in a long time! I hate when real life cuts into dis time! Love all your updates! Can't believe your next trip is almost already here!!!!

 

[KatMark]

I hope to try BOG for lunch in June with the girls.

Love your pool time at AK, and then your photo shoot there as well.

I'm glad you enjoyed your meal at Ohana. Unfortunately we didn't care for it at all and won't be going back. However, Mark would agree with you on the dessert; he devoured that entire plate.

 

[rachel09985]

That was wild with that bird on the loose! What a show. Ahhhh relaxing with a drink at the pool. That's one thing we didn't take the time to do while we were at AKL. How exciting that you will be back in March. Gotta get the use out of your AP!

I haven't been to 'Ohana since February so I'm craving that bread pudding. Talk about obsessed, I'll join you on that one.

It really was a show! I wonder if that is a common thing or what. It was hilarious. My March trip is my last trip with my annual pass I am not going to renew it this year because I have spent so much money. Ohana! I can't wait! Thankfully Corey likes it there as much as I do.

I have to agree that the bread pudding looks plenty fantastic!

So - I am about a month behind on everyone's TRs, but really enjoyed your last update. Since we just stayed at AKL last month count me as another loyal fan. But, I have to agree - the pool was ridiculously crowded. The chairs were covered with more towels than actual people. Rather annoying.

Your drink looks yummy!

An empty monorail?

I will slowly catch up over the night couple weeks!

Thats ok! Don't worry about catching up! Good- I am glad to hear you enjoyed AKL! I loved it so much! This month I will be at boardwalk and Yacht Club so I will see which one I like the best. Yes- the chairs were covered with towels! It was annoying. We came late in the day so it wasn't too bad but it was crowded, especially in July!

I love AKL too! Beautiful resort all around, it was hard to leave and go to the parks some days.

I have never been to Ohana but maybe next time we go. It looks so yummy!

Yes I highly recommend Ohana! It is so good! AKL was amazing. I loved everything about it.

I am actually looking forward to trying BOG for the first time. Thankfully I was able to get a FP+ for it. But I definitely don't want to read the nutrition list. I caught a glimpse and YIKES! It's a good thing it's vacation rules.

I didn't know you already had a March trip booked. And AKL again? Nice!

I got a FP plus too! I didn't even know what I wanted. I wanted like three entrees at the time.

Omg, how crazy about the bird! I'm glad he didn't go crazy and attack the trainer... then you would've REALLY gotten a show. Yikes!

Ahh the beautiful AKL. Lucky you with all these upcoming trips!

Oh my goodness, 'Ohana. I'm obsessed with their potstickers and chicken, too. SO good.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

I know, I am lucky with these upcoming trips. I gotta get my time in now because no annual pass next year. Gotta start saving for a house. I am glad I didn't witness a bird attack. Yum! Potstickers. I loooove those things.

I've heard so many mixed reviews for Ohana at dinnertime. It is nice to know that you can just ask for more and get a different batch. That may make all the difference! Thanks for the tip!

Yes, it is good that you can get a different cut, especially with steak. Some of the steak is just really fatty. I love Ohana so much but I understand some people don't!

Nom nom nom! I love Ohana and can' wait to go back! What are your dates in March? I will be there till March 5th!

I will just miss you!! I will be there March 8th-14th!

Haven't commented in a long time! I hate when real life cuts into dis time! Love all your updates! Can't believe your next trip is almost already here!!!!

I know, me neither! Not sure if I let you know but i loved your live updates from your last trip!!

I hope to try BOG for lunch in June with the girls.

Love your pool time at AK, and then your photo shoot there as well.

I'm glad you enjoyed your meal at Ohana. Unfortunately we didn't care for it at all and won't be going back. However, Mark would agree with you on the dessert; he devoured that entire plate.

I know, I remember you said that! That is sad. At least one of you liked the dessert! I really enjoy BOG lunch as well! Not sure if I would like BOG dinner but I am trying it in march so I guess we will see then.

 

[rachel09985]

Tonight, with our bellies full, we were spending time in the Magic Kingdom!

Our first stop once we got in was Monster's Inc Laugh Floor. I actually really like this attraction. I love when they pick on "that guy".

We were worried no one else was in here and that we would be picked on for sure but we were actually one of the first for the next show. And it really filled up.



One of the jokes that made me laugh hard was something about a banana. The MC said something about a bunch of bananas and then they panned to a brazilian tour group that was all wearing yellow shirts. It was hilarious.

Then, we witnessed one of the most hilarious things ever seen at Disney World.

The kids the MC talked to in the front were these two little boys and you could tell they were troublemakers! We kinda knew something was going to happen.

So the little guy on screen asks the older brother to say a joke.

He says, and I quote, "Your mamma is so fat, not even Dora can explore her!" OMG. The entire crowd just died of laughter and the guy on the screen just stood there with his mouth open in shock! Next the little monster says, " I would ask him another joke but I have a feeling it would be even dirtier." Lol, one of the funniest moments ever! I can't believe that little kid said that!

Since it was still light we went on the people mover next.





We must have went on Splash Mountain after this because I have one picture but it is really bad so I don't want to post it.

It was one of the last nights of the special week long 4th of July fireworks so we wanted to watch it. When we headed over to the fireworks area it was packed! We wanted to get right by the partners statue but it was too crowded so we just stood to the right of the castle.

Not too long into standing Celebrate the Magic came on.





Then the fireworks came on!

There was this couple next to us with the woman in a scooter. The man got on his phone right before the fireworks to tell his kids to meet up. So he was on the phone with his kids the entire time because they couldn't find him. He went off to the side to find them and never came back. His wife was left behind and she was on some sort of off brand ipad taking pictures the entire time!! She probably took about 500 pictures and they were awful. I just don't get ipads and pictures.

My pictures aren't great this time because I didn't have my tripod but I took this time to enjoy the fireworks.