DDF & SP Conquer the World...And Want to Live There..Updated 10/16

[MAJ RN]

I am really enjoying your report. You both look like you are having a great relaxing time. I can't wait to read more.

Melissa

 

[scooby9932]

I Love all the pics. you really got some great shots! I don't know why but I thought your hitchhikers were going to be some kind of bug or live critter , glad that wasn't the case, I'd much rather have Mickey and Minnie along for the ride! and they look so cute on the back of your scooter!!

Ew, bugs & live critters! It wouldn't have been too much of a stretch coming from the Louisiana countryside as we do. I'm glad it was Minnie & Mickey, too!

The bus driver story sounds like something out of an old twilight zone episode, that would freak me out! I wonder how he new her name?

I know - it was very weird - DD couldn't figure it out & still talks about it.

I love your writing style, feel like I'm there with you! Keep up the good work

Thanks! I wasn't sure I'd have much fun or be very interesting when I started this thing, but it's a ton of fun! And it's therapeutic, too - helps with the Disney homesickness I feel every time we get back from a trip.

I am really enjoying your report. You both look like you are having a great relaxing time. I can't wait to read more.

Melissa

Thanks for reading! I'll be posting some more in a bit, so stay tuned! We did have a great time & with all the advance planning were able to relax & have fun while still getting all the "must do" things done!

 

[scooby9932]

Day 4: Part Two: Magic Kingdom EMH & The Search for a Stuffy

Okay, where was I? Oh, yeah. We were ready to head out to MK for the Extra Magic Hours. We hoped to catch most of our “Must Do” rides/attractions so that when we went back on Wednesday. MK is the most crowded of the parks & on a scooter can be a downright nightmare!

We headed over to the bus stop around 7:30 p.m. and caught the next bus out to MK in just a few minutes. We arrived at MK just at 8 p.m. – right on schedule! We made it through the bag check & then queued up immediately to get our EMH wrist bands.

Within moments we were in the Happiest Place on Earth! I just love this park. It reminds me of my childhood every time I first step (or scoot) onto Main Street & smell that unmistakeable “Magic Kingdom” smell – ahh! There were quite a few people leaving the park as we were coming in, which boded well for us! We decided to go into the Town Square Exposition Hall to get some photos with the cut-outs. Every time we’ve tried to do this, there’s always been crowds & wait times to get to the cut-outs, but we just bopped from one display to the next. SP took some time to get pictures of the old camera equipment in the display cases. Being a photographer, she collects old cameras, etc. and just loves to look at them!

We headed out of the Exposition Hall and made our way down Main Street. We made notes on the shops we wanted to stop into on our next MK day along the way.

As it was getting closer to 9 p.m. & the first of the 2 Spectromagic Parades that night, we decided to go to Tomorrowland to avoid the crowds. It was a great idea! We walked right on to all the rides we chose. We’d not been to the Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor before, so we decided on this one first. We tried texting a joke in to be included in the show, but I think SP forgot the buzz word, so it didn’t go through. This show is super cute! I just love how they pick on “that guy” the whole time. All of the people they picked to participate were so funny. This is a definite must do for us now.

After the Laugh Floor, we made our way to Buzz Lightyear’s Ranger Spin. We both scored about the same this time, since SP now knew to aim for the Z’s. She just randomly shot at things last time & couldn’t figure out how her score was so low!

Next up, we got on the TTA – one of SP’s favorites, and cruised around awhile. She wanted to see the inside view of Space Mountain as she’d decided that she would go on it with me this year. I usually have to skip it since no one ever wants to ride roller coasters with me, but I’d decided I was going this year regardless. SP was worried there would be a drop on the ride, but I was pretty sure there were no big drops. When we went through Space Mtn. on the TTA, we were in luck – the ride was down temporarily & she could see there weren’t any big drops.

Next – Space Mountain! For people on scooters, you have to transfer to a wheelchair for this ride, so I parked my scooter & SP started pushing me through the queue. Oh, my gosh! This is one LOOONG, up & down queue. SP couldn’t control the wheelchair very well on the way down – we were going so fast I thought I was going to fly right out of the chair!

The people in the stand-by line started calling out to us as we sailed past, “Ah, man – you’re so lucky you’re in a wheelchair!” SP & I had to laugh – where else would you hear people say that? If they could only hear themselves! I didn’t take offense as I knew they had no idea how bad that sounded! Like anyone is lucky to be disabled! Sheesh. On the upward portion, I had to push myself & hold the wheels tight when stopping since SP wasn’t strong enough. I was worn out by the time we made it to the top!

We finally boarded – SP was a nervous wreck – and I decided to take the front seat to help calm her nerves. I forgot how much fun this ride is! SP was screaming like a banshee behind me & laughing at the same time. I was whooping it up, too – until my lanyard (with my KTW card in it) flew up & almost took my glasses off with it! Luckily I caught them in time! I spent the rest of the ride holding on to my glasses & lanyard in my hands – I couldn’t see a thing! It was still a lot of fun! Woo Hoo - 2 rides in one - first the wheelchair ride from HE?? and then Space Mountain.

SP loved, loved, loved it! She wanted to get right back on – but I said let’s wait awhile. You see, I’m not really supposed to ride thrill rides much. My silly doctors are way over protective – it’s not like I have any heart/back issues, or even any of the health issues they warn about on the ride warning boards! So, I decided to ride some of the rides I really want to, but not over do anything. You only live once! And I was good & didn’t ride RNR or TOT, which I think might have been too much for me!

When we got out of Space Mountain, we heard a bunch of booms & looked up to see the last of Wishes over the castle. We were going to watch Wishes on our next MK night, so we weren’t concerned. I decided it would be a good time to ride Winnie the Pooh while the crowds got out of the way. We walked right on & then spent some time in the gift store trying to find the perfect stuffed animal for SP.

Backstory:

SP had been trying to find a stuffy since day one because she accidentally left her snuggly bunny behind. This is the stuffed animal her fiancée gave her when they first started dating. Now, you’d think at 19 she wouldn’t miss a stuffed animal to sleep with, wouldn’t you?

She tried, she really did. But she was miserable without something soft & snuggly to hug while sleeping, so we’d been trying to find just the right candidate (within our budget) since getting to Disney World. SP has exacting standards when it comes to stuffed animals she sleeps with. They have to be super soft. They have to fit well (curve into her neck). They can’t have any hard parts. Well, after endless stuffy auditions, she finally decided on a super soft Eeyore stuffy.

She had picked this one up at nearly every store we’d gone into, but kept deciding against it, cause she doesn’t like the Eeyore character. But he was still the front runner! So, to get her to make up her mind & get him already, I said that tonight was the last night I’d buy her a stuffy since any later it would be too late in the trip to justify the cost. Needless to say, she snapped him right up! Ah, decision made. She LOVES this thing! I think he takes a permanent spot in her bed beside snuggly bunny. So funny!

With Eeyore in tow, we made our way over to the hub for the 11 p.m. Spectromagic parade. There would be no Spectromagic on Wednesday, and we consider this a Must Do.

Just about everyone had disappeared from in front of the castle by the time we got there at 10:45 p.m. & we were able to get a great spot right in front in the hub. This parade is so much fun! There was a family sitting beside us with 2 kids, a boy around 5 and a girl around 8. They had been there eating some hot dogs from Casey’s when we got there. I guess they’d been waiting quite awhile.

Just before the parade starts down Main Street, one of “those moms” came along & plopped her kids & herself right down in front of the little girl! The girl’s mom asked her if she could move as her daughter couldn’t see, but she acted like she didn’t hear her & just kept sitting there taking video of the parade. The girl’s mom again asked if she could move – a bit more forcefully, but still polite – and the woman looked like she was going to argue about it when SP said, “Yes, you’re in the way – they were here before we were & we were here for at least 15 minutes before you. You should move.” Then she turned to the little girl & said, “Do you want to sit in my spot? I can easily see over you.” Go, SP! She makes me so proud sometimes. Needless to say, the woman moved over & everyone was happy again.

The parade was great as usual. I’m really sad to hear they’re going to be replacing this parade with something else. I can’t see how another one would be any better than this one.

Anyhoo, as soon as the last of the parade passed us, we started for Adventureland. It was surreal how deserted everything was. Since we’d never tried Aladdin’s Magic Carpets, we decided it would be fun to try since there was no line. I let SP have control of the stick & she was nice enough to avoid the camel spitting! Next, we got right onto Pirates of the Caribbean and loved it as usual.

We stopped in the tunnel between Adventureland & Frontierland so SP could use the restroom & call David. I got to see the Spectromagic parade again from this spot. Twice in one night! After the parade had passed, we moved on & passed through Frontierland to Liberty Square. Wow – I don’t think we’ve ever just walked this area without crowds. It was super neat!

We got in the handicapped line for Haunted Mansion (you go through the back down a hallway & wait for entrance to the shrinking room). We were the first in the room & talked a bit with the cast members – they were very in character this night! Then they let the regular queue in. The CM “maid” had been circling the group & when the lights went off she sneaked in among the crowd & was standing in front of some guy just staring at him when the lights came back on. He was so startled, he yelped! It was really funny.

We among the first three people to get on the ride. The changes are great! I love all the updates & was super glad they hadn’t changed the crystal ball image. It’s a little more spooky than before, but still very kid friendly. We loved it.

When we got off HM, I looked over at SP and could see her head nodding and her eyes drooping a bit. She was still holding Eeyore & was rubbing on his tail and getting sleepier & sleepier. By this time it was around 12:30 a.m. and I told her we could leave if she wanted. SP’s eyes got wide & she said, “NO! We need to ride all the rides! I’m not sleepy!” I told her maybe we should let Eeyore ride in my scooter basket. She said, “Yeah, I think that’s the problem. I keep rubbing on his fur & getting really sleepy.” Hee Hee.

We headed toward Fantasyland & wanted to ride Peter Pan. Ah, so that’s where everyone had gone – to Peter Pan. The line snaked along the whole queue! We looked over at It’s a Small World & there was noone there! So we made a beeline for that ride & rode in a boat all by ourselves! Again, surreal.

I'll only bore ya'll with one picture from IASM (my favorite critter):

After IASM, we looked at Peter Pan & it was still really crowded. There were no other “Must Dos” on our list, so when I looked at SP & could see she was really tired at this point, I told her I was ready to leave. SP agreed. We headed down Main Street & saw that the bakery was open. We decided to drop in & get the next morning’s breakfast before heading to the buses.

I got a cinnamon roll & SP got a cherry turnover. I also got a hot cocoa for the trip home. Nothing puts me to sleep faster than hot cocoa. We’d been filling my mug with it in the food court every night. Since the food court would be closed by the time we got back, it was a good decision to go ahead & pay for some.

We headed to the buses & were happy to see there were only 3 people in line. Then we got to the handicapped entrance line to find 2 other scooters there ahead of us. Uh oh. They can only take 2 at a time, so I knew we’d be waiting quite awhile before getting on a bus. SP sat down & pulled Eeyore into her lap for the wait. I believe she even snoozed a little while waiting. I drank my hot cocoa & worked hard to keep my eyes open!

The line was getting long & people were worn out. The bus came about 20 minutes later & they started loading the scooters. Oh, no. These 2 ladies were both either exhausted or had little to no experience on loading their scooters onto the bus. It took the driver plus the MK CM about 15 minutes to get them on & situated. The crowd was getting really antsy by this time. The park had closed & the line for POR was LOOONG.

Once they’d loaded the bus completely full, the MK CM came to apologize, but I told him I understood – only 2 at a time. He then told me that he’d called in for another bus since he knew we’d been waiting there longer than most. I said no problem. There were still quite a few people waiting in line & we chatted while waiting for the next bus. I overheard some people grousing about the scooter & how long it took the others to load. I was determined to get on & secured as quickly as possible. This is normally not a problem for me as I have a few years experience, but you never know. Anyhoo, the bus pulled up & the CM came over to me again & asked if I was okay to load. I told him I was a pro at this & he laughed & said “I sure hope so. The line is getting restless!”

Well, let me tell you – I pulled onto that bus (it was a newer one, thank goodness) and had that scooter parked in one practiced move. The line outside actually cheered when they saw how fast I was in & secure. Then the people started loading & as they passed me I got lots of compliments. One guy said “That was the fanciest driving I’ve ever seen – car or scooter!” I was beaming with pride!

SP was already leaning against me fast asleep! We got back to the resort at 2:45 a.m. and made our sleepy way to the room. We both took quick showers & then fell into bed.

It was a great day & we were both excited to have managed all of our “must dos” at MK.

Next up: Day 5 – EPCOT – The World Showcase

 

[MAJ RN]

Great update! I always forget about the cutouts for pics in the exposition hall. We will make that one of our must do's for this trip. Can't wait to read more!!

Melissa

 

[MomsOf2boys]

Great updates! Love all the pictures...especially the hat ones! I about died when I read.....

Next I decided I needed a pit stop, so we stopped to use the companion restroom in Africa. SP got the door & I drove in & then she closed it. I said, you got the door? She said, yep. Well, just as I was doing my business, the door opens wide & this guy is standing there. He quickly closes it, but not before I see several people look to see why SP had gasped. Yes, folks, if you were in Africa on May 3, you might have been subjected to a view you wish you hadn’t. I wish you hadn’t as well. SP then realized that the “lock” she turned was a false lock & she needed to turn a dial to show “Occupied” on the outside. Lemme tell ya – she didn’t make that mistake again, nor will she ever.. Ahem. Moving on.....


Ohmygoodness! So very glad you don't have pictures of that to share. Oh wait... you could have held the camera to get pics of the people looking in the door! Oh my!!!

 

[scooby9932]

Great update! I always forget about the cutouts for pics in the exposition hall. We will make that one of our must do's for this trip. Can't wait to read more!!

Melissa

Thanks! You should definitely stop in for the pictures - I think it's probably less crowded on the off hours, but it's worth it for the unique picture opportunities. They also had a couple of Photopass photographers at 2 of the sets, but we didn't like the sets so moved on.

Great updates! Love all the pictures...especially the hat ones! I about died when I read.....

Next I decided I needed a pit stop, so we stopped to use the companion restroom in Africa. SP got the door & I drove in & then she closed it. I said, you got the door? She said, yep. Well, just as I was doing my business, the door opens wide & this guy is standing there. He quickly closes it, but not before I see several people look to see why SP had gasped. Yes, folks, if you were in Africa on May 3, you might have been subjected to a view you wish you hadn’t. I wish you hadn’t as well. SP then realized that the “lock” she turned was a false lock & she needed to turn a dial to show “Occupied” on the outside. Lemme tell ya – she didn’t make that mistake again, nor will she ever.. Ahem. Moving on.....


Ohmygoodness! So very glad you don't have pictures of that to share. Oh wait... you could have held the camera to get pics of the people looking in the door! Oh my!!!

Oh, my gosh! Pictures! I'm already scarred for life without any picture reminders! I can laugh about it now, but, boy was I embarrassed at the time!

 

[scooby9932]

I've been a bad DISer! No posts for 2 days!

In my defense, it was my birthday on Wednesday and I was in the garden until late & then fell into bed after my shower last night. I know, not good enough, but, hey that's my story & I'm sticking to it!

I'll be posting some more this weekend.

Happy Friday!

 

[DisneyDreamnDeb]

After the Laugh Floor, we made our way to Buzz Lightyear’s Ranger Spin. We both scored about the same this time, since SP now knew to aim for the Z’s. She just randomly shot at things last time & couldn’t figure out how her score was so low!
My family is very competitive I'm going to keep this tip to myself!

The people in the stand-by line started calling out to us as we sailed past, “Ah, man – you’re so lucky you’re in a wheelchair!” SP & I had to laugh – where else would you hear people say that? If they could only hear themselves! I didn’t take offense as I knew they had no idea how bad that sounded! Like anyone is lucky to be disabled! Sheesh.:rotfl
This is an example of why people should take two seconds and think before they speak.

Just before the parade starts down Main Street, one of “those moms” came along & plopped her kids & herself right down in front of the little girl! The girl’s mom asked her if she could move as her daughter couldn’t see, but she acted like she didn’t hear her & just kept sitting there taking video of the parade. The girl’s mom again asked if she could move – a bit more forcefully, but still polite – and the woman looked like she was going to argue about it when SP said, “Yes, you’re in the way – they were here before we were & we were here for at least 15 minutes before you. You should move.” Then she turned to the little girl & said, “Do you want to sit in my spot? I can easily see over you.” Go, SP! She makes me so proud sometimes. Needless to say, the woman moved over & everyone was happy again.

Yeah, for SP, hope we don't experience anything like this, but from reading these boards it sounds like it's pretty common.


We decided to drop in & get the next morning’s breakfast before heading to the buses.
I like this idea, I may do that on our MK day

Well, let me tell you – I pulled onto that bus (it was a newer one, thank goodness) and had that scooter parked in one practiced move. The line outside actually cheered when they saw how fast I was in & secure.

Good for you!

I have been working 12 hr shifts, so I have been to tired to get on here! Love all the pics.

 

[MomsOf2boys]

I've been a bad DISer! No posts for 2 days!

In my defense, it was my birthday on Wednesday and I was in the garden until late & then fell into bed after my shower last night. I know, not good enough, but, hey that's my story & I'm sticking to it!

I'll be posting some more this weekend.

Happy Friday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Did you enjoy your day?

 

[gbpackfan9]

Oooh, you get to go in October! Are you going to the MNSSHP? I wish I could go then. Halloween's my absolute FAVORITE holiday!

We went to the MNSSHP a couple of years ago. I don't know if we'll get back there this time or not.

 

[MAJ RN]

Hope all is well, can't wait to read an update!! Have a wonderful evening.

Melissa

 

[scooby9932]

I have been working 12 hr shifts, so I have been to tired to get on here! Love all the pics.

I know what you mean about the long days! I've been bogged down with work and when at home with taking care of the garden & such until it's past time to go to bed! Daylight Savings Time is great, but boy does it mess with my schedule! I always thinks it's a lot earlier than it really is.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Did you enjoy your day?

Oh, thanks so much! Yes, I had a great day - once I got home! I had meetings at work starting at 7:30 a.m. (meaning I got up at 5 a.m. & in to work at 6:30 a.m. to prepare) & they kept going one after another until 4 p.m. Meetings exhaust me! But I had a wonderful authentic taco dinner & homemade chocolate cake waiting for me at home! Yum!

We went to the MNSSHP a couple of years ago. I don't know if we'll get back there this time or not.[/QUOTE]
If you do go, enjoy some trick or treating for me!

Hope all is well, can't wait to read an update!! Have a wonderful evening.

Melissa

I have an update all typed up & ready to post - now I just need to find the time to post it. The home computer has been hijacked recently by SP who had a lot of finals. I guess her finals are more important than my trip report - but just barely! Finals are over now, so I think I should be able to get something up tonight. Cross my fingers.

 

[scooby9932]

Just a small OT post. I'm feeling down today & being on the DIS makes things better somehow.

Why the doldrums?
I have to start chemo again Friday afternoon & while it's not the 1st & won't be the last time I go on this stuff, I'm a bit depressed about it.

I know I have to have it - the alternative is REALLY depressing.

Just call me Chemo Sobby.

I'm usually really chipper - even when sick, but I guess I've been a bit of a bear this week. I felt bad last night - SP told me she knows I'm going on chemo, but what's with the 'tude?

So, how to get over this funk? Ooh, I know! I can start planning my next vacation! It's still a little early for the May 2009 Disney trip yet, but just last night my parents started talking about a trip this fall. I think it'd be fun to go leaf peeping in New England! I love the autumn season!

We don't get much change of seasons here - it goes from boiling hot (Late Spring, Summer & Fall) to uncomfortalbly warm (early Winter) to just warm (late Winter, Early Spring) & back again!

So, now I have a plan in place. A plan to make a plan! You see - this fanatical Type A planning stuff is good for the soul! Yessiree, DISers - don't let anyone tell you any different!

Thanks for the time out. I feel a bit better now. Depressing post over. On to the good stuff....

I should have something up tonight on our World Showcase day!

 

[DisneyDreamnDeb]

Just call me Chemo Sobby.

You have a great sense of humor, keep thinking positively, and if you don't feel up to posting for a while thats fine, we will wait, or if you want to get anything off your mind we're here to listen.
When you are getting your treatment mabee you can let your mind drift back to your wonderful trip! Just omit the AK bathroom scene! Unless your seeing the humor in it now, then mabee it would be good to rehash just for a laugh! Planning a trip is also a great idea to get your mind off of everything.
Hope you are feeling better soon.

 

[MomsOf2boys]

I know what you mean about the long days! I've been bogged down with work and when at home with taking care of the garden & such until it's past time to go to bed! Daylight Savings Time is great, but boy does it mess with my schedule! I always thinks it's a lot earlier than it really is.

Oh, thanks so much! Yes, I had a great day - once I got home! I had meetings at work starting at 7:30 a.m. (meaning I got up at 5 a.m. & in to work at 6:30 a.m. to prepare) & they kept going one after another until 4 p.m. Meetings exhaust me! But I had a wonderful authentic taco dinner & homemade chocolate cake waiting for me at home! Yum!

We went to the MNSSHP a couple of years ago. I don't know if we'll get back there this time or not.

If you do go, enjoy some trick or treating for me!

I have an update all typed up & ready to post - now I just need to find the time to post it. The home computer has been hijacked recently by SP who had a lot of finals. I guess her finals are more important than my trip report - but just barely! Finals are over now, so I think I should be able to get something up tonight. Cross my fingers. [/QUOTE]


Glad your day was wonderful! Mexican food is sooo yummo! We are going to MNSSHP for the first time in September. Not really sure if the boys will feel too old for it or not but whatever, got the little tickets in my measly hands.

 

[MomsOf2boys]

Just a small OT post. I'm feeling down today & being on the DIS makes things better somehow.

Why the doldrums?
I have to start chemo again Friday afternoon & while it's not the 1st & won't be the last time I go on this stuff, I'm a bit depressed about it.

I know I have to have it - the alternative is REALLY depressing.

Just call me Chemo Sobby.

I'm usually really chipper - even when sick, but I guess I've been a bit of a bear this week. I felt bad last night - SP told me she knows I'm going on chemo, but what's with the 'tude?

So, how to get over this funk? Ooh, I know! I can start planning my next vacation! It's still a little early for the May 2009 Disney trip yet, but just last night my parents started talking about a trip this fall. I think it'd be fun to go leaf peeping in New England! I love the autumn season!

We don't get much change of seasons here - it goes from boiling hot (Late Spring, Summer & Fall) to uncomfortalbly warm (early Winter) to just warm (late Winter, Early Spring) & back again!

So, now I have a plan in place. A plan to make a plan! You see - this fanatical Type A planning stuff is good for the soul! Yessiree, DISers - don't let anyone tell you any different!

Thanks for the time out. I feel a bit better now. Depressing post over. On to the good stuff....

I should have something up tonight on our World Showcase day!

I have never done Chemo so I can't say I know what you are up against, but we do care here. Don't worry, take your time, we will keep your thread going when you aren't able to. Drop us a little note saying how you are or cuss us out in proper board language if you need to that day. Hang in there and get a couple good books to keep your mind busy.

 

[scooby9932]

You have a great sense of humor, keep thinking positively, and if you don't feel up to posting for a while thats fine, we will wait, or if you want to get anything off your mind we're here to listen.
When you are getting your treatment mabee you can let your mind drift back to your wonderful trip! Just omit the AK bathroom scene! Unless your seeing the humor in it now, then mabee it would be good to rehash just for a laugh! Planning a trip is also a great idea to get your mind off of everything.
Hope you are feeling better soon.

I have never done Chemo so I can't say I know what you are up against, but we do care here. Don't worry, take your time, we will keep your thread going when you aren't able to. Drop us a little note saying how you are or cuss us out in proper board language if you need to that day. Hang in there and get a couple good books to keep your mind busy.

Thanks so much for your kindness! It's so nice to come back to the boards after a long absence & you guys just make it that much more enjoyable!

I've been through the ringer these past 11 days, but am on the mend some. The chemo was the worst I've ever had. This round caused the usual digestive distress, but the worst has been the nerve damage. This is a common side effect of one of the drugs I'm now told & they're not sure if it'll be permanent or not. The pain is something awful!

The left side of my body is covered in what looks like sores/rash (kind of like shingles) and I can't feel the bottoms of my feet very well (tingling & such). The rest of me is just sore & tired. I'm using my forearm crutches to get around now. Hopefully I'll be on my own 2 feet soon.

I've been to the neurologist now & have some Rx to help. They're also going to adjust the dosage of the evil drug & add a 3rd chemo drug to the cocktail next time (June 27) so I'm hoping that will alleviate the problem. Please keep your fingers crossed for me!

I'm back at work today. I was getting nervous about missing all last week, so that's an improvement. Plus, I was getting mighty sick of my bedroom!

You're right, though, laughter is the best medicine! I CAN laugh about the AK bathroom incident now, plus we've been reliving other funny moments from our trip. Disney works magic even from afar!

I've been watching funny videos & playing MadLibs with SP & that's helped keep my mind off the negative stuff. I definitely recommend MadLibs & any episode of Frasier!

Thanks again for the well wishes. I have the next day's write up done & just need to upload the photos with the text. Hopefully by tonight!

 

[scooby9932]

Here I go again - going off topic! It's been an awful couple of weeks in our household. You all have heard about my health issues, but I just wanted to let you know about poor SP and ask everyone to send good thoughts & Disney pixie dust her way. If you believe in prayer (as we do), those are also very welcome! She's truly heartbroken.

The night before I went on chemo, she & her fiancee called it off. He'd been acting strangely for awhile & she hadn't wanted to share much of their troubles, but I knew something was off. Well, after much talking, crying, etc., they broke up. She's having a really hard time of it. My Sparkly Princess is a lot less sparkly these days.

It's so hard to watch your child go through something like this. I know we all have our heartbreaks in life and I know she'll get through this, but in the meantime it just stinks! I feel so helpless! Sometimes I wish she were a little girl still so an ice cream cone & some silly distractions could make all the hurt go away. I miss those days.

Sorry, again, for the depressing post. I'm hoping bright skies are soon to come & push our little black cloud away.

 

[TigerKat]

I'm signing on here late, just found your TR! Prayers and PD for you and your SP for sure. I've just got to tell you that I was when I read about SP smelling the grouper, that was TOO funny!!!!

 

[scooby9932]

Day 5 – Monday, May 5 - World Showcase, A Rant, and Future World Do-Overs

Not surprisingly, we slept in a bit this particular morning. We’d planned to try to get to Epcot for 11 a.m. when the World Showcase opened, but when the alarm went off at 9 a.m., I hit snooze. SP didn’t stir a bit. After hitting snooze until 10 a.m., I finally managed to roll out of bed. I tried waking SP by moving around & making some noise, but she was out.

Finally, I turned on the TV to Stacey & she couldn’t sleep through that! We were both pretty sluggish and so getting ready took longer than it should have. We both ate our pastries from the night before – I think the cinnamon roll would have been a lot better fresh & warm, but it was still really gooey & delicious. SP was ravenous & ate all of her cherry turnover (it was HUGE) and then ate a Donut Stick. “Real good start to the day, pastry girl,” I joked. SP replied, “Oh, hush. I also had orange juice – so that counts as fruit. Plus the cherries count as fruit.” At my look, “They do!” Uh-huh, sure!

We finally managed to get all our stuff together & get out the door by 11:30 a.m. After stopping at the mail drop & to fill our mugs with more lemonade, we headed over to the bus stop. It took forever for an Epcot bus to show up. Three AK/Typhoon Lagoon & 2 DHS/Blizzard Beach buses went by before even 1 Epcot bus showed up. This is what happens when you repeatedly hit snooze, people!

When the bus finally started around the bend, I could see they’d picked people up from other bus stops first, so I was a bit nervous there wouldn’t be room for my scooter. Well, the bus driver sees me & I nod to show I needed to load and he pulls the bus over & starts toward the back to let the ramp down. When the rear door opened, I could see that there was plenty of room for the scooter, plus everyone waiting to load. But, there were 2 people sitting in the seats reserved for scooters/wheelchairs.

Now – here’s my first of only 2 rants for this TR!

There is a sign on these seats that clearly states people sitting here have to move if a wheelchair/scooter needs to load. I would probably feel bad if there were no other seats available & someone had to move, but when there are a bunch of seats open, I don’t.

Now, here’s what happened. When the rear door opened, I could see the driver ask the 2 ladies to please move so he could secure the seat section to the side & load my scooter in that spot. For those who don’t know, there are 2 spots on every bus with tie downs built into the floor so your wheelchair/scooter can be tied down – this is for everyone’s safety. Who wants a flying wheeled contraption on a bus?

Anyhoo, this is where I started to get upset. One of them shakes her head no, turns to glare at me, and then refuses to move. The driver pointed to the sign to indicate that she must move, and she again shook her head no & this time pointed to the collapsible wheelchair she was holding onto. The lady next to her had an arm in a cast, but nothing else that was obvious. I started to think, “Oh, well she must have some disability & can’t move very easily.” But it was clear she’d gotten to her seat without benefit of the wheelchair since she wasn’t in the wheelchair. I was getting confused as to why her companion was shooting me really hateful glares & refusing to move.

SP was watching this & said, “Wow. She doesn’t want to move! What a _____” I shushed her & said maybe there was something wrong we just didn’t understand. Well, guess what? After the driver again asked them to move, the woman in the cast gets up & walks to the very back of the bus to take a seat!! Her companion (the one arguing) picks up the collapsible wheelchair and follows her. Why is this important, you ask? Because you have to climb steps to go to the very back of the bus! And she could have shifted just 2 seats down to let the scooter on instead of walking ½ a bus length. So why was she arguing about moving? And why all the dirty looks? I’ve always assumed people with disabilities & their friends/loved ones were more understanding than the average person because they have to live with all that comes with a disability – including needing a scooter. Again,

After I loaded my scooter on, SP whispers, “Wow, Mom. Is that a lime green lanyard on her bag?” I say, “No, it couldn’t be. DIS people are nice! Quit looking at her – she seems likely to cause a confrontation.” SP: “Mom, I swear, she has a lime green lanyard that says “..." - text not printed here to protect the innocent - you know, me - from flamers!

I looked & sure enough, definitely someone from the Disboards. W o w. My first sighting of a fellow DISer and it wasn’t a good one. I was really sad & disappointed. I mean, both SP & I were wearing our LGMH necklaces, my scooter had a lime green cover with LGMH embroidered on the back. It had to be obvious we were from the DISboards. As much as that one woman glared at me you’d think she could have seen those details. Ah, well. Never can tell with people.

Anyhoo, we decided to just laugh it off. SP started to refer to them as the “mean seat hoggers” every time we’d see them – and it did seem like we saw them EVERYWHERE that day, including the bus ride back that night! Where they again walked right on the bus & sat in the very back. I decided to send out blessing to them – they obviously needed it.

This is the only time I’ll mention anyone being rude to me due to my scooter – and it made the biggest impression because (1) one of them shared a disability issue and (2) at least one was a DISer. Every other rude comment/behavior is par for the course when riding a scooter & I have since forgotten most of them. I try not to let it bother me since I’m in Disney & without my scooter wouldn’t be able to go at all. Besides, when someone does/says something rude/mean, SP gets upset enough for both of us! And she tends to be vocal about it. Not a thing like anti-confrontational me.

Ok, rant over. On to the fun!

Once we got to Epcot & unloaded from the bus (super nice driver, by the way), we made our way into the park.

Here I am getting off the bus:

SP on the way into EPCOT:

We didn’t see anyone along the way until we get to bag check. What is that? We were figuring it would be easy peezy lemon squeezie since we were so late in getting there. Oh, well, we were soon on our way.

SP really wanted to go on Spaceship Earth again so she could send a postcard home, so we made our way there first. After waiting about 10 minutes in the wheelchair entrance, we were led onto the ride. The plan was I’d get to push the buttons on the screen this time, we’d both look straight at the camera this time, and when the ride was over, SP would run on ahead of me to the kiosk to select our pictures for the postcard. I chose options that had us exercising in the future. The cartoon was so cute! We were both giggling like schoolgirls during the whole thing. As planned, SP went ahead of me since I’m so slow with my knee brace & have to retrieve my scooter at the end of the ride. By the time I got to the kiosk, she had already sent one postcard (to David, of course) and then I had her send another one back home so we could see it. Really cute!

Once we got out of Spaceship Earth, I suggested that we get Fast Passes to TT. We headed over to get the FPs and had a return time of 5:45-6:45 p.m. Perfect! Next we headed around the first aid center toward Mexico & got a few pictures of the beautiful flowers & lake & topiaries.

We went into Mexico & rode the Gran Fiesta Tour (old El Rio de Tiempo). We both like this ride & have fun watching Donald Duck travel through Mexico. After the ride, we did a little shopping. SP really wanted one of the embroidered shirts, but couldn’t decide if she should get it. So I suggested that we eat dinner in Mexico and if she still wanted it, we’d pick it up then.

Happy to have time to make up her mind, we made our way out of Mexico and on to Norway. We saw there was no wait for the ride, The Maelstrom, so we decided to give it a try. We’d never ridden this one before as it’s always been down for repair or rehab. It’s a cute ride, but not one I’d figure to be a FP ride. The part where it looks like you’ll plunge backwards was a little scary for SP. She looks at me & says “Mom, they wouldn’t, would they? You promised there’d be no big drops!” I look back & say, “There’s no way – you didn’t see anything outside where boats were splashing down, did you?” SP: “No…well, that’s just stupid, then.”

After we survived the ride, we skipped the movie as this is what usually gets SP’s motion sickness going & we had forgotten our Psi bands this time around. I wanted to see the Kringla Bakeri and try the school bread I’d heard so much about. I figured SP wouldn’t be hungry after her huge breakfast. I was wrong! She got one look at the cherry danish there & just had to have one! The customer in front of me got the last school bread in the case, but they had more, so the CM went in the back to get me one.

SP whispered to me: “Oh, my! People from Norway are CUTE! Did you see our server?”
Me: “Yep. He’s a cutie.”
SP: “Wow, wish they grew them like that in Louisiana!”

Then we got in line, and I hear SP giggle. I look over, and she’s grinning ear to ear and she whispers again, “Oh, wow. Check out the cashier! He’s even cuter than the other guy!” After a bit of hesitation, she says, “But don’t tell David!”

I said, “Hey, you’re engaged, not dead. Even an old broad like me is looking at the hotties in here.”

SP: (insert teenaged embarrassed tone) “Mom! Hotties? Really, did you just call them hotties? Jeez.”

Me: Giggle.

After some mild ogling of the cuties, we made our way out to the tables. SP grabbed some napkins & forks & we each dug into our treats. Oh, wow! School bread is delicious! It’s so, so, so good! The only problem was it was also so, so, so big! It’s definitely enough for 2 or more people to share. SP had a few bites of mine & declared it yummy. I saved ½ of mine, but SP scarfed down her danish – not a crumb left on her plate. That kid loves her pastries – the count was up to 3 for the day already. Yummy Pastries = happy SP! Yummy Pastries + Hotties = Giggly, Happy SP!

We headed out of Norway & made our way to China. We stopped along the way to look at the hats. I bought the little collapsible hat and SP found a cute solar powered keychain for David that flashed his name on a little screen in English on one side and had the Chinese version written on the back.

We then took some pictures of the bonsai trees.

SP got a few pictures of the pretty architecture and statuary around the pavilions.

We then spent way too much time just perusing the shops in China. Oh, the shops in China! But, surprisingly, we didn’t buy a thing this time. We headed back out along the showcase soaking up the sun & enjoying the beautiful day. We took some pictures along the way of the topiaries, lake, etc.

We stopped along Africa (which I think they need to add to – but I doubt they ever will since it’s so well represented now in AK). I love banging on the drums & embarrass poor SP every time with my shenanigans. I was pounding away on the drum singing an off key version of Hakuna Matata when I sense someone watching me. I turned around to find a Photopass guy taking my picture! Well, hello! At least it wasn’t a video with sound! After he took a few shots of both of us pounding on the drums, we moved on.

We took our time strolling along toward Germany and Italy, but didn’t stop in those countries this time. I figured we’d get to them later – but we never did. We completely skipped Italy, Germany & Canada this trip. And that’s with going to EPCOT 3 times! See what happens when someone decides they love TT?

By this time, it was almost time for the Voices of Liberty show in the American Adventure, so we headed that way. We rode the elevator up to the 2nd floor & watched the singers from the balcony section. Uh, oh – what’s that I see? The “mean seat hoggers”! We drove as far away from them as we could & enjoyed the songs just as much this time as ever.

There were 2 first families chosen – they were 2 couples traveling together to celebrate their 50 year anniversaries. The choir sang a special love song just for them. It was really sweet. After the singing was over, we were directed into the theater to watch the show.

I love this show. I’m very patriotic & have to see this show & the Hall of Presidents at MK every time we visit. I know it’s silly, but his show always makes me a little teary eyed, especially the part where the woman sings “Two Brothers.” I wish I could find a recording of that song! After the show was over, we went into the gift shop & I tried to find a recording of that song, but all they had was the other music & some CDs from Voices of Liberty. Darn it all! I love that song!

When we got out of the shop, it was getting so hot outside! We decided to get some ice cream & take a short break in the shade on a bench. SP called David & I enjoyed the band playing rockin’ oldies in the American Theater.

We then headed over to Japan, our very favorite in the WS. SP’s favorite because it has a whole big section of Hello Kitty. She’s been the biggest HK fan since she was 4 years old and we’d go to the mall & get a grab bag at the Sanrio store. They closed the store when she was 7 and she still laments its demise. Her room & car are both covered in HK paraphernalia!

After spending about 30 minutes watching her debate between this nightshirt or that, this pair of capris or that, this….I wandered away & started looking at the different beauty products from Japan. This always amuses me – the writing is all in Japanese & I never know just what is in those packages. From the pictures, you can’t tell where you’re supposed to put some stuff (on your face?, on your feet? Other places?) There’s no way I’d buy something when I couldn’t even read what it said! My luck, I’d put anti-fungal foot cream on my face!

SP finally joined me & we looked through all of the shops. When we got to the part with kitchen wares, etc., she found some black bamboo placemats that matched her new china (she’s moving out soon) & we just had to get them. It was a bargain, too, at only $6.95 for a set of 4. I also bought my mom some bamboo coasters for Mother’s Day (6 for $4.95). I then played with the Buddha boards and listened to all the CDs they had on sale. SP told me I couldn’t buy anything for myself since she was taking notes on what I liked & would return later to get my Mother’s Day gift.

We finally wandered out of Japan and by this time it was getting to be late afternoon. We took a quick tour of France & the UK (where I saw some teaware to add to my collection – a collection that is seriously threatening to overwhelm my storage space).

What's that I spy?

Something's caught my eye!

Oooh- gimme, gimme!

Still and all, I resisted, and didn’t buy a single tea thing the whole time! I do love the gardens at the UK! Especially tidbits that celebrate tea!

SP bought a British candybar (Aero) and enjoyed it very much! We then headed out & SP was super excited to see that The British Invasion was playing. She’s a big Beatle’s fan – I don’t care for them, but I humored her & we watched for awhile.

Here's SP, with the whole world on her shoulders! Looks like she can take it, though!

We then decided it was time for some dinner. We were going to stop at the Boulangerie Patisserie for some croissant sandwiches, but I thought it would be best to get something else since all SP had had all day was pastries, pastries, and more pastries! We decided on the Cantina de San Angel in Mexico. We both like the food there & the prices are super reasonable (well, except for charging $2.95 for a small plastic container of guacamole). Also, we wanted to be back to TT in time for our fast passes, so we skipped Canada & made our way back around the lagoon to Mexico.

I grabbed a table while SP queued up for our order. I watched the various ducks and other water birds as they aggressively moved among the people getting bits of food. One actually jumped on a table where people were still eating & grabbed a piece of churro from the woman’s plate! I joked with her that I’d have been glad to sacrifice a chip or piece of tortilla, but the birds better leave my churro alone! She laughed and said it was a good thing she was full already and wasn’t going to eat it.

After waiting for about 25 minutes for SP to return, I began to get worried. Just as I was preparing to get back on my scooter & go in search, she came around the corner with our food. She had ordered the chicken taco salad with a side of black beans and had ordered the Tacos al Carbon for me with a side of guacamole. I loves me some guacamole! She also got a churro for each of us – more pastries!

We each stuffed ourselves and then sat back & enjoyed the view over the lagoon while letting our food settle. Neither of us wanted to go on TT with stomachs freshly full of Mexican food!

About 5:45, we headed back towards TT. The FP lane was nearly empty & we walked right on the ride! We had a cute couple behind us who hadn’t been on before. The girl was screaming her head off at the fake barrier test! We zoomed around & it was just as awesome this time as the others we’d ridden. This is now a Must Do for both SP and me.

It was getting later & SP & I had debated going to Fantasia Gardens to golf that evening. We decided to skip it for now and instead went back to the Spaceship Earth and then played on the games in the downstairs pavilion. SP had wanted to try the shuffleboard game. The place was closing by that time, though, so they kind of kicked us out. I had forgotten Future World closed at 7 p.m. SP really dislikes Illuminations, so we hadn’t planned on seeing it this time around. Neither of us felt like going to play golf at that point. So, we decided to head back to the resort for the evening. We were both still pretty tired from the late night before, so it was a good call.

It turned out to be an even better call, because it was a good 45 minutes before a bus came to take us back to the resort! I know people complain about POR buses, but we’d not had issues with wait times til that day. The buses between Epcot & POR just plain don’t run as often as they should. I don’t know what the difference is in their schedules, but we found this to be true each time we traveled between the two. All other POR to themepark buses were great. Again, we saw the “mean seat hoggers” on this bus, but didn’t pay them any mind. By this time, we had made quite a joke of it all.

Oh, and more pastries! While waiting on the bus, I hear a crinkle, crinkle sound & look down to see SP opening a Nutrigrain bar (Strawberry). I leaned down & said in a mock serious voice, “Control yourself!” SP: “It’s not a pastry – it’s a fruit bar.” Me: “Yeah, and that’s why Kellogg’s calls it the portable morning pastry.” SP: “Well, what can I say? I love me some pastries!” We both still laugh about her “Day of the Pastry.”

We got back to the resort around 8:45 p.m. and spent a little time in the gift shop before heading to the food court for hot cocoa for me and Cherry Coke for SP. We then took the long way around to our building, just soaking in the atmosphere. POR really is a very relaxed, beautiful resort.

After we got to the room I caught up on my record keeping while SP showered. I’d been lax the day before with all the park hopping / late hours. After finding out where all the money had gone (isn’t always amazing to see how quickly you go through that stuff at Disney World?), I did the ritual cleaning of the packs, repacking of the packs, charging the scooter, room straightening, etc. By this time, SP was out of the shower, so I had a turn.

We watched some Will & Grace reruns & I fell asleep around 11 p.m.

Tomorrow – Day 6 – Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Fantasia Gardens, the Boardwalk, and Epcot (Again!)