Basking in the Glow of the (not so) Creepy Clown -2/11-Pictures, Final Thoughts, PTR!

[PopArtGal]

I've eaten that cookie quite a few times. It is good

 

[MaryAz]

Great update!! We tried out that playground for the first time in Dec. Most more managable temp wise!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I've eaten that cookie quite a few times. It is good

Or maybe it was your TR where I read about it! All I know is I'm glad I tried it. Yummy!

Great update!! We tried out that playground for the first time in Dec. Most more managable temp wise!

That is very true! Back in December 09 we had Henry all bundled up in that playground. It was weird being in there without the fans and the water misters.

 

[MEK]

No idea when it became cool!! From what most people say it's terrible compared to what it used to be, but we liked it! You'll have to give it a try again, you will capture some awesome action shots I'm sure! (and there is a possiblity our trip will be delayed into May--so if we end up there the same time as you, I'll ride with you!)

!

What's this? A possible trip delay? I certainly don't want you to have to delay your trip, but I would totally love to be there at the same time as you. I know we all would!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I think I need to squeeze in a little update before I call it a night.

First - personal update! A few of you have heard my rumblings of the Feb/March trip that you see in my ticker possibly NOT happening. Before Christmas I got a random call from a company where a friend of mine works - they pretty much told me they wanted to hire me--WOW! Fantastic! So I went in for an "interview" only to find out I'm not exactly qualified for the job. I have done software support in the past, this is for tech support--which I know I can do, but there would be a learning curve. (They obviously didn't read my resume too well) However, they still liked me and pretty much left it all in my hands. I took a few days to think and pray about it and decided that yes, I am going to go for it. I emailed the company the next day and the manager was on leave (I knew that though) through the new year. Well, we are a week in and I haven't heard back. I also called them and left a voicemail -- nothing. My friend who works there spoke to one of the guys on the team and he said they want me still, but that was days ago.

So.......who knows.

If I get the job (or a different one), we most likely will have to push the trip back to May (dates undecided-probably early May). I would not feel comfortable taking time off so quickly and for the tech support job late Feb/early March is going to be a VERY busy time for them because the entire company is moving offices.

We are currently going forward like we are going on the trip though and that means, I gotta finish this TR!!! 49 days!

We left off after spending some time in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground. We started to meander down the Streets of America.

I like the little sign on the light pole for the Statue of Liberty.

I'll take the W or the D train anyday. As MeMom pointed out, it most likely stands for Walt Disney. I never even thought about that! One thing I notice in this picture is it says the Elevator at PAR St. PAR. Hmmmm. Does that stand for anything? It sure has nothing to do with Manhattan that I'm aware of.

We eventually ended up at Star Tours

We approached the CM to have Henry measured. If he was tall enough that day we would all have time to ride before our lunch ADR. For it being the last day that the ride was open, we were surprised to see a VERY short wait. Henry wasn't tall enough today, but we determined we still didn't have time to Baby Swap it, so instead we just headed over to....

This is a fun gift shop - so many random things to look at!

Is the gift shop still open even though the ride is closed?

He really liked the Ewoks!

And the light sabers. I'm certain one of these will come home with us at some point in the future.

I posted this on Facebook - anyone remember this???!?! BAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

Henry found a little ride vehicle toy and was having a good 'ol time on the counter with it and his bus!

After a short while we left the store and made our way to our ADR location...

Mama Melrose's!

We had made an ADR here several times, but had always ended up canceling it. We were excited to try it especially since I had read several very positive reviews around here lately!

Continued in next post

 

[brookelizabeth]

Continued from previous post

The waiting area - it has such a nice atmosphere.

Inside the dining room

As soon as we sat down we felt like we were in for a good meal. And we were right! We had great service - just the right speed and always around when we needed him.

Yummy bread and oil.

Henry's choice - chicken, pasta and fruit.

Mine - Chicken Parmigiana

Joe's - Sausage Ziti - I don't see it on the menus anymore.

Both meals were very good. It's not "knock your socks off" food, just good basic Italian. It reminded us of about the same quality as the Olive Garden (but without that amazing salad and breadsticks!). Joe and I tried a few bites of each others and we both preferred our own.

Even though we were stuffed full on the tasty pasta dishes, I just had to squeeze in some tiramisu - and Henry, well, he's 3, you don't even have to ask him. There is ALWAYS room for ice cream!

When our waiter brought out the desserts they had a special little surprise for the Birthday Boy...

He was elated with that candle and a big "Happy Birthday!" from our waiter.

This was Henry's first "Make your own sundae" and he loved creating it!

He's concentrating so hard on making a perfect sundae that he's biting his bottom lip.

The finished product!

And just as he started to dig in, our waiter stopped by and plopped this on Henry's head

He was THRILLED! That little gesture made this Sundae Making Chef very, very happy. It's those little touches that make Disney so special. A candle and a paper hat. Easy. Makes kid happy, makes parents happy.

Much ice cream mixing and sprinkle-adding was done. I think he played with the sundae more than he ate it. But, all well - he enjoyed it, and we enjoyed watching him enjoy it!

And my pretty...

Yep, not a drop was left. Good, good stuff.

On our way out of the restaurant I snapped a couple more pics because I just liked the atmosphere of it all so much.

Looking down the hallway from the waiting area to the dining room, which is to the right.

Once outside I could hear some familiar music that immediately determined our next move...

 

[brookelizabeth]

What's this? A possible trip delay? I certainly don't want you to have to delay your trip, but I would totally love to be there at the same time as you. I know we all would!

Yep! I have been tempted to contact you ladies being our trips just might overlap now and if they do, I want to meet up!!!

I explained it all in my personal update above. If our trip does move to May we most likely will have to cut it a bit shorter too, but we'd have more money to spend! There are positives and negatives to both--so we'll see what happens...I'll keep you posted.

 

[Charleston Princess]

I think we need The Imagineer's Guide to Disney Hollywood Studios to decipher the mystery of the Par Street Entrance.

I hope you were able to ride Star Tours later in the day! Ah, Henry with the Ewok and lightsaber -- my inner Star Wars geek approves! I love that stormtrooper shirt with TK 421 on it -- I can almost hear the scene where Han Solo and Luke are rescuing Leia from the cell block detention area.

Mama Melrose's looks so neat! So many cool things to look at!

 

[MeMom]

If I get the job (or a different one), we most likely will have to push the trip back to May (dates undecided-probably early May). I would not feel comfortable taking time off so quickly and for the tech support job late Feb/early March is going to be a VERY busy time for them because the entire company is moving offices.

We are currently going forward like we are going on the trip though and that means, I gotta finish this TR!!! 49 days!


We approached the CM to have Henry measured. If he was tall enough that day we would all have time to ride before our lunch ADR. For it being the last day that the ride was open, we were surprised to see a VERY short wait. Henry wasn't tall enough today, but we determined we still didn't have time to Baby Swap it, so instead we just headed over to....

Is the gift shop still open even though the ride is closed?

And the light sabers. I'm certain one of these will come home with us at some point in the future.



Mama Melrose's!

We had made an ADR here several times, but had always ended up canceling it. We were excited to try it especially since I had read several very positive reviews around here lately!

As much as I want you to get the job that you want, I'll be sorry that you can't come to the Small World meet.

Too bad you guys could all ride Star Tours together. When it opens back up, Henry will have gotten taller, and I bet he will love it!

Watching little boys and grown boys intently making those light sabers always makes me smile. Men do like to shop in Disney World. They just like to shop for specific things - swords, Legos, Star Wars stuff....

I'm guessing the store is still open and doing a good business. Someone who has just been there can enlighten us. I just can't see them turning down an opportunity to make money, and I bet that shop makes a little.

We've put Mama Melrose on our list a couple of times and scratched it, but we'll get there eventually. I think your meal looks pretty good, and both our girls like all kinds of pastas.

There are so many details on the back streets, and they're usually not crowded.
Except for during Osborne Lights.
Then they can get crazy.

 

[jenjolt]

Isn't Mama Melrose's such a great restaurant!! I have eaten there are my last few trips and haven't been disappointed! The food, service, and atmosphere was great!!!

LOL I learned something new today...I love when that happens!! I have never noticed that WD on the subway station before.....that is awesome!! Huge thanks to MeMom for pointing that out! Just made me smile!!! The Streets of America are awesome for all the little details just like that!!!!!

Can't wait for more!!!!!

 

[lauren_elizabeth]

Good luck with the new job situation! I know that whatever is meant to happen, will

Too bad Henry wasn't quite tall enough for Star Wars! I bet he would've loved it. It's just another reason to have to go back to Disney World!

Mmm, Mama Melrose's sounds delicious! We've only done 50's PT and Sci-Fi at DHS. Maybe we'll have to give Mama Melrose's a try on our next trip!

 

[DWGal210]

Happy Saturday, Brook!

Mama Melrose looks GREAT! I haven't eaten there before, that will go on the list for sure! Sometimes, basic food that's good is a good thing. Sometimes in the World, you don't want a supreme culinary experience ALL the time....you just want a nice, comfort food meal that's tasty. I'm getting hungry just typing that.

I hope you hear about the job soon! That's frustrating of them not to call you back yet.

Did you guys gets lots of snow yesterday? I heard it was snowing in your neck of the woods again.

 

[brookelizabeth]

I think we need The Imagineer's Guide to Disney Hollywood Studios to decipher the mystery of the Par Street Entrance.

I hope you were able to ride Star Tours later in the day! Ah, Henry with the Ewok and lightsaber -- my inner Star Wars geek approves! I love that stormtrooper shirt with TK 421 on it -- I can almost hear the scene where Han Solo and Luke are rescuing Leia from the cell block detention area.

Mama Melrose's looks so neat! So many cool things to look at!

Jackie, you are TRULY showing your inner Star Wars geek! I love it! I don't even know what TK 421 means. However, I do think the Star Wars stuff looks cool!

As much as I want you to get the job that you want, I'll be sorry that you can't come to the Small World meet.

Too bad you guys could all ride Star Tours together. When it opens back up, Henry will have gotten taller, and I bet he will love it!

Watching little boys and grown boys intently making those light sabers always makes me smile. Men do like to shop in Disney World. They just like to shop for specific things - swords, Legos, Star Wars stuff....

I'm guessing the store is still open and doing a good business. Someone who has just been there can enlighten us. I just can't see them turning down an opportunity to make money, and I bet that shop makes a little.

We've put Mama Melrose on our list a couple of times and scratched it, but we'll get there eventually. I think your meal looks pretty good, and both our girls like all kinds of pastas.

There are so many details on the back streets, and they're usually not crowded.
Except for during Osborne Lights.
Then they can get crazy.

I know - I REALLY want to be at that Small World meet! I will be able to meet MEK and other lovely ladies on the "East meets West" trip should we go in May, so I won't be DISMeet-less.

I think Henry is going to love Star Tours as well. He'll probably think "What have you been hiding from me Mommy?" and we'll soon own all the movies. That time is rapidly, rapidly approaching.

I am guessing the same with the store. It's such a unique and fun store, I can't imagine them closing it-unless it too is getting a big revamp.

But during Osborne Lights those streets are extra magical, so it's worth the crowds!

Isn't Mama Melrose's such a great restaurant!! I have eaten there are my last few trips and haven't been disappointed! The food, service, and atmosphere was great!!!

LOL I learned something new today...I love when that happens!! I have never noticed that WD on the subway station before.....that is awesome!! Huge thanks to MeMom for pointing that out! Just made me smile!!! The Streets of America are awesome for all the little details just like that!!!!!

Can't wait for more!!!!!

It was your and LL's review I believe that put me over the edge, booked the ADR again and refused to change it! So thank you! It was great! We will repeat it in the future at some point!

I really enjoy the Streets of America for all those little details as well. I always see something new!

Good luck with the new job situation! I know that whatever is meant to happen, will

Too bad Henry wasn't quite tall enough for Star Wars! I bet he would've loved it. It's just another reason to have to go back to Disney World!

Mmm, Mama Melrose's sounds delicious! We've only done 50's PT and Sci-Fi at DHS. Maybe we'll have to give Mama Melrose's a try on our next trip!

Thank you for the well-wishes on the job! I found two others that I'm going to apply for. One is a long shot, but sounds really challenging and interesting, the other one I'd be a shoe-in. I hope to get my resume in with those today. Writing a cover letter always stumps me.

I would recommend Mama Melrose! It was comfortable and tasty. And I don't think it's wildly popular, so easier to snag an ADR at too.

Happy Saturday, Brook!

Mama Melrose looks GREAT! I haven't eaten there before, that will go on the list for sure! Sometimes, basic food that's good is a good thing. Sometimes in the World, you don't want a supreme culinary experience ALL the time....you just want a nice, comfort food meal that's tasty. I'm getting hungry just typing that.

I hope you hear about the job soon! That's frustrating of them not to call you back yet.

Did you guys gets lots of snow yesterday? I heard it was snowing in your neck of the woods again.

Yes, exactly! It was basic and predictable food--which is sometimes a RELIEF on vacation.

It is very frustrating (and I'll say it - a bit unprofessional of them) to completly ignore my requests. If they changed their mind, just tell me! I told my friend I sorta gave up on it and am moving on. Maybe I'll get offers on these 2 others I'm going to apply for and can pick!

We did get some, but not much - it didn't stick. The snowflakes were HUGE though! It was beautiful! I was about to go out and get a picture...but then it stopped.

 

[Charleston Princess]

Jackie, you are TRULY showing your inner Star Wars geek! I love it! I don't even know what TK 421 means. However, I do think the Star Wars stuff looks cool!

Don't worry! I will be more than happy to fill you in -- and I was mistaken about the scene.

Apparently since all the stormtroopers are just clones, they don't get real names, just letters and numbers. In The New Hope (which in my mind will always be the very first Star Wars movie regardless of the fact that they call it Episode IV now), the Millenium Falcon gets pulled into the Death Star. Luke and Han are able to secure stormtrooper outfits and pretend to be troopers. I will see if I can find a clip of it. LOL!

Yep, I am all about Star Wars geekiness.

 

[MEK]

Wow - so much to comment on!

New job - I like your attitude - just roll with it. You contacted them. You wrote a follow up letter, I'm sure, so the ball is in their court now. You got positive feedback. That's awesome! Even if you don't get the job, it sounds like it was a good interview experience and just prepares you that much more for the next job. You may just be dealing with the post holiday, snow delays that I am sure are affecting everyone.

Good plan to keep moving ahead with your trip as planned, but if you have to change it would be great to see you. Some of us are arriving 4/29 and leaving 5/5. The others are arriving 4/30 and departing 5/6. So there's plenty of room for overlap!

Your last update made me really want to visit MM again. I have always liked that place despite the iffy reviews. I think I am especially fond of it because it was my first ever Disney TS ADR for the fantasmic package. We had such a fun time writing on the wall.

 

[Charleston Princess]

Found it!

It's a long clip, but if you start it around 3:30, it happens soon after that!

The Origin of TK 421

 

[glennbo123]

Hmm, I wonder what PAR street could be?

Mama Melrose's was where we had our big family meal when my parents took us all (them, us, and my sisters' families...18 of us) to Disney in 2001. It was pretty good!

 

[pooh'smate]

Okay-so I just noticed your ticker. 3 weeks until your 15 day trip and it's your FIRST trip AND you are keeping it a secret from your DD I assume?!??! How freaking FUN! Oh my word. She is gonna FLIPPPPP! And 15 days?! Hooo yes! Seriously. Rockin'. I'm so excited for you!

And yes, that carrot cake cookie is NUMMY!!

Actually my ticker is a day late now because it was cheaper to catch a late flight the night before in stead of the day we were originally going to leave. Yes it is a secret from Alexia. We keep debating if we are going to tell her now or wait until we get to the airport. She knows we are going on vacation and she knows that we are flying to where ever we are going, but that is it. I asked my dh if he wanted to stay in mod or deluxe or stay for longer in a value. He chose to stay longer because he thinks this is the only time we are going to go to WDW (silly man).

 

[Tinker_Tam]

Great update!!! Sorry to hear that you may have to move the trip back but if this job is the one that makes you happy I am sure the wait won't seem long.

Jon is a HUGE Star Wars fan and of course the ride was closed when we went. There must have been some private event there while we were at DHS on one of our days because they had a bunch of storm troopers (guys in white??? I know nothing) standing around visiting with some guests in a roped off area at the ride. Jon stood there taking it all in and suddenly one of the storm troopers motioned him over and Jon was able to get his picture with the guy. Made Jon's night! I am so glad the guy thought of my poor hubby... stuck outside the fun! LOL And yes, the store is still open during the redo! That is where Jon spent some of his fun money on himself... He even did the light saber at DTD.

Had the same Dinner as you at MM and it was yummy. Nothing over the top like Le Celier but you can't compare the 2. Still a very yummy dinner!

 

[KatMark]

Brook, I am finally caught up. It sounds as if you had a great day at the Studios thus far. I love the "slide" picture every year; it's sad when they "move on to the next step".

The pictures with Mike and Scully are terrific and I love Henry's man "capris"--he looks adorable.

We love Mama Melrose...it is our favorite at the Studios and I definitely think we need to go back this year (we missed it the last two).