DisneyAunt's Much Needed Solo Trip **DAY 3 Complete Page 2**

[DisneyAunt]

PreTrip

Just a little background as to why I needed this trip sooo badly. In October my father was diagnosed with cancer and my mother and I have been the primary caretakers. If anyone out there has had to care for an elderly sick parent then you know what I was/am going through. To add to that I also have my own business that I must be there in order to make money that pays the bills. Since that just doesn't create enough chaos in my life I am VERY involved in many different community activities and committees.

I had planned a trip in November with the whole family all 8 of us. We weren't sure if we would go with my father being sick. But we decided to go and had a wonderful time. We made lots of memories!! And that is what its all about.

I originally planned on going in Janaury but had to cancel that trip due to Dad's treatments. Then I planned on February but had to cancel that trip too because Dad was not doing well at all and was in the hospital for 3 weeks. At that point I was literally about to have a nervous breakdown. I was so stressed out that I got sick and landed myself in the emergency room. And I really hate the ER. Did I mention I was in the medical profession? Oh and did I mention I hate the ER? It wasn't my choice to go, my doctor gave me two choices while I was sitting in his office. I could drive myself to the ER or he would call an ambulance. What??? That serious!! Yes....but long story short I survived and thank goodness...I knew several people in the ER that day and was in and out very quickly....How quickly you ask within 4 hours I was resting comfortably at home. And I had had the million dollar work-up. That's quick for an ER....usually they let you bleed or throw up all over their waiting room for 4 hours before they take you in.

You get to a point when you feel that all the walls are going to come crashing down on you. That's when I realized if I didn't get away I would be useless to everyone else. I had the challenge of making sure my father would be ok and organizing his home care. In fact I wasn't sure if I would even be able to go until the last minute.

I knew I really needed to go especially when business acquaintances began noticing my change in my mental state. And when my doctor wrote on a prescription pad that I needed a vacation. You get the idea!!

I decided on foing March 17 to 21. So I manage to get a flight for $158, a rental car for $85. I called to get my room I didn't want to blow all my DVC point on Friday and Sat stay so I decided to try a value resort after all I was by myself and wouldn't have to hear anyone complain.. I would be staying at POP Century for my Friday and Saturday Night stay with the AP rate and then I was going to OKW for Sunday Monday & Tuesday.

Since I have an AP and DDE card this was going to be a economical quick trip for me. And unlike my many Disney trip I really didn't plan any activities....I was going to fly by the seat of my pants. Well actually I lied....I did plan one thing.....Spa Day with my best friend who lives in the area. (can't wait to tell everyone about that.)

So those are the grounds that I had to take this get away!! Stay tuned for more...I will keep it all on this thread to make it easier for everyone.

 

[antree]

I am so sorry about everything, I hope this trip worked out great for you. Can't wait to hear more.

Maria

 

[pumba]

I know what you mean about needing to get away......we are waiting patiently for our Disney trip coming up soon...My sister has a terminal illness and it is very mind boggling........please know that getting away even for a few hours is very important for you and for me......
Thanks for the prelude of your trip

 

[TLinden16]

I can understand what you have gone through. I can't wait to hear about your trip! I hope you had a nice, relaxing getaway!

 

[DisneyAunt]

Thanks for the replies. Sometimes it helps to know that you are not alone going through things like this.

The purpose of this trip report is to hopefully encourage anyone who is hesitant on going by themselves. It was truly a relaxing and "mind cleansing" experience.

So without further adue ( I think I spelled that right?) here is Day 1.

Day 1---Flying out

Before I could escape to solitude I needed to work a full day, acutally a few more hours more than my typical full day. It was going to be busy at work since two of my staff personal also took vacation however they both decided to leave before me and come back a day after I would....but that's another story.

I awoke at 5:30am...I had actually gone to bed at 1am I was trying to get the last of the laundry done and get packed. It felt like I was running in circles and couldn't get myself organized. I was so tired the night before that I fell asleep on the couch.....well when I woke up...let me tell you my back was screaming!!!

I'm thinking no big deal I'll just get some ice on it and take a hot shower and I'll be fine. But I'm not lucky like that. Anyway....ignoring my back pain...I went about my morning routine. Finished packing and was ready to start the day by 7am. I head to mother's for my morning coffee.....yes....Mom calls me everymorning and insists on making me coffee, isn't that sweet of her. I actually have to stop by their house to check on my Dad in the mornings. So it has become a routine. As I am having coffee and a bagel with them....Dad was feeling pretty good...so I reminded him that I was leaving for Florida for a few days. That was a BIG mistake....he was very upset....and he wanted to go to. I tried to explain to him that I am not going where his sister and other family members were and that I was goign to WDW by myself. It just made him get into a foul mood. So now the guilt comes.....I'm thinking....maybe I shouldn't go.....I feel bad that Mom has to stay and deal with his mood swings and take care of hime by herself. ( I forget to mention that Dad also has some dementia and has "rages" every once in a while) I only wish I could take her away from all of this for a few days....but one of us needs to stay with him. Dad storms off to watch his morning shows in the den and mom and I start talking. I expressed my concern about leaving. She assured me she would be ok.....and that I need to go. My tears start flowing.....and I really start feeling guilty because I know that Mom needs a trip by herself just as much as I do, only she would never be brave enough to go anywhere by herself. So she tries to assure me that it's ok for me to go....because she doesn't want to have to committ me to the pysc. ward. I finish my coffee and head for the office....I'm thinking I doubt I will be able to get on that plane tonight only because either my father will do something that will cause me to bring him to the ER or the guilt will keep me from going.

I get to my office about 7:45am and I am the first one there. I figure I could knock out a bunch of paperwork my dear staff left me on my desk. The few hours alone weren't as productive as I thought they would be...my mind just wasn't there. I wanted either to go home and crawl into bed or just go get on that plane. The rest of the staff comes in and of course everyone has some kind of problem that I have to deal with......it was truly one of the most stressful days I have had at the office in a long time. I couldn't wait until it was over.

Thank goodness 12:30 rolled around I was able to escape at lunchtime for a few hours. I was a woman on a mission....I had to head back to my house to pick up my suitcase. The plan was that I would leave my car at my office and my friend drive me to the airport...and the same friend would pick me up when I returned. But before I was to go home....I needed to make a pit stop....a much needed one...I had to visit my chiropractor.....yes he is my savior. He took one look at me and said....you can not go back to your office this afternoon....you need to rest so that you can have a pain free trip. I looked at him and with great respect.....cause I do respect him...I told him...with the amount of time I missed from my office with Dad being sick ...I can't really not be there this afternoon....and I am going to be gone for 4 days. Well ....I got the lecture of you know better than that....and I don't want to hear you had a terrible trip because of your back....blah...blah...blah. So I leave his office...assuring him that I felt better.....which I did slightly...not enough to tap dance. I did promise him that I would at least where a back support.

I venture to my house and take one look at the suitcase that is sitting on my bed. I think to myself how the heck am I going get this down the stairs and into my car. I'm thinking to myself......"very carefully" . Somehow I managed to get all my "stuff" into the car without incident. That's always a good thing.

Next stop...Mom and Dad's for lunch ....I walked in and they were already having lunch. Dad was not talking to me and was in a nasty mood. My told me not to worry about and have a great trip. I wasn't even hungry...I hated seeing my father that way. I decided not to have lunch and figured I could grab something at the airport alter if I was hungry or maybe go over to PI when I arrived for something to eat....it was of course St. Patty's Day and I could have corned beef and cabbage and a beer at Raglan Road. I'm a "good" catholic and since the archdiocise of NY gave special dispensation to eat Corned beef on this Friday during lent for St. Patty's Day...I was going to do it. Anyway I said my goodbyes and Dad ignored me...which really made me feel bad, more so because I was leaving him with Mom in the bad mood he was in. So as I drive to work...I'm thinking there is no way I could leave.

I get to my office by 2:30 and all is calm.....I was slated to have a busy afternoon....and was to leave by 6:15pm for my 8:25 flight. My back was killing me....it actually felt good sitting but when I got up from a sitting position I couldn't stand up straight....I'm thinking .....how the heck am I going to walk around WDW. I then remembered that I had my father's handicapped placard in my car.....well I thought .....that is coming with me...I think I could use it. I also remember I had some Darvocet from my little ER incident, I had only used one out of the a bottle of 20.....I threw those in my purse just in case. Now...if you knew me I don't even own a bottle of tylenol. I don't take any medication and I have a very high pain tolerance....but I took them just in case.

I made it through the afternoon without and catastrophes. As I am getting ready to leave....literally walk out the door.....I was told I had to take one last phone call. A million thoughts are running through my head.....something has happened to Dad....but surely Mom would have called on the cell.....no I told her I was turning it off. I'm literally sweating as I answer the phone.....the voice on the other end says to me "Are you walking out the door to the airport"......I immeadiatley recognize him.....it is my doctor. How do you like that....he called to make sure I was leaving. How sweat!! He told me not to worry about anything if something should happen I'll find out when I get home. LOL....sure easy for him to say. (he is also Dad's primary doc too) He told me to have a good time.....and clear my mind. You all must be thing what a nice doctor...and how come your doctor doesn't do that. Well he is a wonderful doctor who spends a ton of time with you but he is also a friend, I don't think he does this with all his patients.

I finally make into my friends car....and it is freezing outside....I did not want to lug my winter coat with me so I left it at the office. Anyway...my friend puts the seat warmers on high for me....well...you know what it really helped my back I felt much better by the time we got to the airport. ANd might I ad we got to the airport very quickly. The speed demon.....must have thought I was going to be late or something. I guess the important thing is I made in one piece.

I arrive at the airport...and I had already printed out my boarding pass and all I had to do was check my luggage which required me to stand in a long line....it was fine because I still couldn't believe that I was going to get on that plane and really I wans't in a rush to go anywhere...I had plenty of time....More so than I thought. I check the luggage without incident. I'm a pro at going through the airport usually I have small children with me....this is a breeze. I make it through the long line in security. Although I was mesmorized by the collection of lighters allong the security poles. Anyone who leaves out of Newark...will understand. There were a ton of them don't people know by now you can't bring a lighter on a plane. Anyway...made it through without incident.

I managed to get to the gate....my back was feeling pretty good by now..maybe because I was starting to relax. As I get to my gate I notice that there aren't many people in my gate area....hey maybe it's not a full flight....myabe I will have 3 seats to myself.....wouldn't that be nice. As I was day dreaming....I realized I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast. I need something to tide me over until I got to WDW. There were quite a few places to choose from...but I didn't want to eat meat...unless it was going to be corned beef. So I had a slice of pizza...it wasn't the best but yet it ws the most expensive piece of pizza I have ever had...it was almost $5. Thank goodness I had a few bottles of water in my back pack so I didn't have to buy a drink. ANd people complain about Disney prices.

Anyway...as I eating and waiting....I spy a celebirty!! Yes an honest to goodness one. I'm thinking...hey that guy looks like Bobby Flay from the food channel.....hmmm.....how am I going to look at this guy without staring....all of sudden we make eye contact. Now I normally don't stalk but....I wasn't sure if it was him or not...and I wanted to meet him. Well he gets up and starts going to that pizza place that I got my slice from. I'm thinking if he gets food from that dump...it's not him. Well sure enough he only buys a drink....the more I stared the more I came to the conclusion it was him. What a great diversion for me!! It was really helping me relax and keep my mind of things. Can you see why I really need to get away???

Anyway...I left him alone for a bit.....partly because I was wondering why we weren't boarding....it was almost 8pm....and we were schedule to leave by 825pm. Please don't tell me we are delayed. Darn it....I knew it. As I was chatting with this nice gentlemen by the gate.....over comes the celebrity patiently waiting by the first class ropes. I whisper to my new found friend ...do you know who he is?? He looks at him and says no. I then proceed to tell hime who he is. Oh....looks so much different in person....he doesn't look friendly, he says. I reply c'mon...it's Bobby Flay "Boy Meets Grill" he is really sweet. As we are having this quiet conversation and I am contemplating going over and saying hello. Another gentlemen approaches him and asks him something about the gate and departure time...and Boy Meets Grill was very rude to him. What my celebrity rude!! Well my new found friend says to me ....you still want to say hello. How disappointed I was. Now I can't even watch his show anymore. Oh well maybe he was having a bad day.

We finally make it on the plane and pull fromt he gate it is now 8:45pm. and we begin to slowly taxi and then stop....slowly taxi and then stop...you knw how that goes. Then the pilot comes on and says folks...we have a bit of traffic.....why was I not expecting good news. ....he proceeds to tell us that we are 25 in line for take off and to figure about 2 minutes per plane....I have never heard some many groans on a plane as I did that night. I wasn't happy but hey I was on a flight bound for sunny Florida by myself who cares when I get there as long as I get there.

We finally take off....the flight was uneventfull and we land at MCO at 11:45 some how we made up some time somwhere.

I must continue the rest another time as it is a Friday night at 8:15pm and I am still at my office. Stay tuned!

 

[pumba]

thanks so much for your great departure.......I am bummed too that Bobby Flay was a brat.....shame on him.......thanks again for everything and YES I do understand about the parent being mad at us for going to Disney again.....My mom is 92 and my Mil is 90......ya think we were going for the rest of the winter.......geesh....Hope you have fun

 

[OhMari]

I am contemplating a solo trip next fall, so I am waiting to see how you liked going solo.

 

[DisneyAunt]

I hadn't planned on posting again tonight but since I am procrasting getting my paperwork together for my accountant to do my taxes this seemed more appropriate.

Lets where did I leave off.

Oh yes....we landed at MCO at 11:45pm. Didn't see my celebrity since he was in first class and I was practically sitting in the bathrooms in the back of the plan. He was probably home in bed before I got off the plan. It took forever...not sure why but it just did. No rush though because you still have to wait for your luggage. I figured by the time I get to baggage claim my bag will be spinning around. NOT!!

Once I got off the plane and really started walking I realized that my back pain flew with me. Darn it...and I thought it went away. I'm not sure what I looked like but the friend I met early at the gate offered to carry my backpack. I noticed he had a wedding ring on......I graciously declined. LOL....yes..I was looking. I'm single and in search for the right guy. All kidding aside even if he didn't have a wedding ring I probably wouldn't have anyway. It was very nice of him and I let him know that I appreciated it. The more I kept walking the straighter I become....I was feeling a bit better by the time I got the "train". I made it to baggage claim and my suitcase was not how imagined it....in fact I waited a good 30 minutes before it came through. I have never been to MCO and had my suitcase come out quickly....it always takes forever. But you know what I really didn't care at that point....I was here....and I couldn't believe it. It ws really finally happening. I really began to unwind. So here comes my bright blue suitcase with my DVC luggage tag on it. It's hard to miss....I bought new luggage last year and almost bought DIS green....but it was a bit to bright and since I don't always travel to Orlando....I thought it might not be so practical....so the blue one it was.....I can spot it from a mile away. It really stands out amonst all those black suitcases. I never realized how many people have black suitcases. And no one seems to know which is theres. I left people searching for the black bags and made my way downstairs to National Car rental. No line, how wonderful is that....I showed the agent my resvervation number....he informed I could go straight to the emerald isle and pick my car.

I was hoping there was a nice convertable.....my luck there would be mini vans. You see I almost didn't get a rental an almost took magical express, but I reserved and intermediate car for 4 days for $85....now that's a deal. I get to the emerald isle and start looking for a car....they all look alike...no minivan's, no convertables, there were buicks everywhere. I am used to driving a large SUV and I get a bit nervous in small cars. I choose one of the Buicks....not sure what is was but after I loaded my luggage and all my other junk in...I sat in the drivers seat and attempted to adjust the seat....well I must say...it was the most uncomfortable car I ever sat in....I am not a tall person...I am 5'1" and as I was trying to get myself comfortable because of my back....I hit my head on the interior roof of the car....what heck. Let me try this again......oh no...this isn't going to work...I need to get a different car. So I began looking and I found a Toyota Camry....now I have driven those often....I'll take. I unload my stuff and quickly put it in the Camry...and off I go. As I am making my to 417....I notice the road is really dark....that is strange and oh no.......what happened to the road...it went completely black. I put my brakes on and I realize....I didn't have my lights on. Silly me...my SUV turns them on automatically. Whewww....I set the Camry's to do the same so that wouldn't happen. I was really awake then. I pay the tolls and make my way to Osceola Parkway...never having gone to POP century I was following the directions I was given. Unfortunately I was slightly distract when i got off 417 and made a left instead of a right and realized I goofed after i had gone 6 miles out of the way. It is about 1am and I am getting really tired and I just want to go to bed. I manage to get myself back on the right track.

I must confess something....when I drove under the WDW arches....I began to cry. I couldn't believe I was here. I promised myself that I would really try and relax and make the most of this getaway. I found POP without a problem. Now to make it to the Check in desk. I thought it was really neat the way the resort was designed....except that parking stinks. I pulled out my handicapped parking and managed to find a spot 2 miles away from check-in. I'm probably exagerrating but with my back that's what it felt like. The lobby was decorated really nice and I wasn't so tired I would really take my time to appreaciate what was there...but my mission was to get a room and go to sleep. There was no wait and I had a a Korean "student" check me in. His name was Devon. I am convinced that Disney make them change their names. He hardly spoke english...and I can't imagine him trying to pronounce Devon. I did make an observation on my bill ....his real name was on it. His real name was Yeung. Of course now that I began to unwind I jokingly asked him....he smirked and didn't respond. He assigned me a room and being the experienced DIS person...I confirmed that it was non-smoking. He informed that there were no Non -smoking rooms left. Now....I almost ...said that's ok.....i really can't stand the smell of smoke...it makes me ill. I always tell I need a Non-smoking for medical reasons. I told Devon that I had requested a non for medical reasons. He disappears in the back and comes back after 10 minutes. We have a room. What?? Where did that room come from? I was hoping they would ship me to AKL, but no such luck. I had a non-smoking room and I was happy. I did ask him how he got it. He said shhh don't tell anyone...but you see those people over there this was there room. Oh no.....those poor people. I felt terrible for them....they did not look like experienced Disney people. But...I was tired and I need sleep and my back needed a nice comfortable bed.

I was in the 70's Room 6253 he instructed me to park in the 90's section and showed the "short cut" to the room. It was very late and I was very tired....I drove to the 90's lot which during the day I realized was the next parking lot over. I drove around looking for a parking spot......any parking spot....and I drove around and around and around....kinda like you do at the mall during christmas time.....but who was i kidding it's almost 2 am and no one is going to be leaving. The only thing that was empty was a spot that was mark PARGO parking only ( I think that is the way you spell it) What the heck is that I thought to myself? Hmm...there is a handicapped car parked in one of those spots.....could it be some type of handicapped vehicle. Oh well that was the only place I could put the car and I figure they wouldn't tow anyone with a handicapped placard. So I parked the car and hoped for the best. I unloaded my junk and managed to find my room. What I noticed was there was an awful lot of people out at that hour. People sitting outside their rooms drinking beer. I have never seen that at Disney....made me a bit uncomfortable. I had to stop myself from getting paranoid ...this is Disney..people are friendly. POP reminded me of an upscale Motel 6....now I know I will probably get flamed for that but...that is what it reminded me of.

I was excited because my building was right in front of the BIG WHEEL and the Giant Mickey Phone. I'll have to take a picture in the morning I thought to myseld. Right now I need to get to bed. I find my room and open the door....and realize wow....the bed is awfully close to the door. The room was cute...it was clean and it had a bathroom and not one but 2 beds. That's all I needed for now. I cleaned up....unpacked a bit....got into my PJ's and settled in. I put the TV on and it stayed on all night. I tried to get comfortable but couldn't...my back was killing me. I could feel the springs on this bed...it was terrible. I was so tired that I thought to myself.....Tomorrow I will try the other bed...it must be better....and that's all I remember because I fell asleep it must have been past 2 am.

I think that was enought procrastinating....I need to get back to my taxes....I have to see how much the IRS wants back this year.

 

[DisneyAunt]

It's almost 4am and I am having a bit of insomnia.....gee that hasn't happened in a while so I figured I would try to continue my trip report. I'm not HappyHaunt or ZZub but I hope that someone finds my trip report useful or inspirational for them.

Day 2 First Full Day Alone

You would think that I would sleep until at least 9 or 10 am because I was so tired and I never have the luxury at home of sleeping past 6:30am. But my internal clock got the best of me....I woke up at 6:15am. I tried to force myself to go back to sleep but my back was really bothering me. I made a mental note that I needed to get to a grocery store to get an ice pack and maybe some Motrin....mind you I never take any OTC meds or prescription meds for anything....high pain tolerance, but this time I wanted to be comfortable while walking around. Then I remembered I brought that Darvocet with me.....Hmmm....can't take that now it would knock me out for the rest of the day and I needed to get out in the sun and begin to unwind. I had a hard time getting out of bed, I made it to the bathroom and jumped into the shower....well not really jumped in but sort of slithered in. I took the hottest shower possible....even though I know that heat is not good most of the time for back pain like I had.....it felt good at the time. I literally stayed in the shower for 30 minutes. it was wonderful since I again don't have that luxury at home. It's always a quick shower and out the door. Not this trip...this was my trip..I was taking care of myself. I did feel better after the shower and got my self ready. I had no idea where I was goiong to go or what I was going to do.

Since I had not planned on being on a schedule I reminded myself that I was flying by the seat of my pants. I really needed some coffee ....I looked around the room and no coffee pot. I must admit...I am spoiled by DVC and the Deluxe hotels I have stayed at. I really need my cup of Joe to get me going. I got all my things together that I thought I would need for the day and headed out of the room. I had my camera in hand and looke like a tourist.....but I really wanted to take some nice pictures of the resort. I don't have a digital camera...I have a phobia with them...I have my big Minolta 35mm....I love that camera and it takes the best pictures. I only brought one lense with me...just because I really didn't want to carry a bag full of camera equipment. I took a picture of the Big Wheel...it was realy cool and big! I took Mickey's phone, and bunch of others. I was even asked to take a picture of a family by the potato head family. The woman said she wanted to ask me because I looked like I knew how to take pictures and she didn't have a digital camera either. After walking around I decided I needed to get my breakfast and coffee . oh...I almost forgot....remember last night I had parked in the strange parking spot....well my car was still there...and I found out what the Pargo thingy was....it is one of those extended golf carts that transports people and luggage. Who knew!! I always thought they were golf carts. Never knew they had their own name or parking spaces.

I almost skipped breakfast and went straight to MK...but I decided that I should go to POP's food court.....It was crowded but not to bad....I got breakfast and my coffee and paid....and of course I was able to use my DDE card....love getting 20% off. I took my time eating and drinking coffee and really enjoyed people watching. No one seemed to notice I was by myself...frankly I didn't care. People were in such a rush.,...I think that is what we look like when we go as a family.....this trip so far has taught me one thing....our next family trip was going to be laid back...no commando style. I finshed breakfast....refilled my coffee and strolled through the shop at POP to see if there was anything interesting.....there were a few things...but I wasn't ready to buy anything yet.

I made my way to the car.....my back still bothering me...yes...I was parked in handicapped....since I still felt it handicapped. I realized that walking didn't bother me so much...but getting from a seated postion to a walking one was a killer....it took me a good 10 minutes to be able to walk without pain after getting up from a seated position. I get in my care adjust the radio and get myself comfortable.....I pause for a second and try to figure out where I should go for the day. Anywhere I would go would be fine with me. I decided to head over to MK since EMH was at Disney Studios and hopefully MK wouldn't be crowded it was afterall a Saturday. I hadn't planned any schedules using my unofficial guide or tour guide mike... but i was a veteran Diser and knew the ins and outs so again I felt comfortable flying by the seat of my pants. I arrived at the MK parking lot and was being directed to handicapped parking....if anyone has every parked there they would know it is a LONG walk to the monorail. I know enough not to park there but instead asked if I could get an end spot....and of course they leave all those end spots for that specific reason. Timing couldn't have been better....I park and take the tram that seems to be waiting for me. I walk over to it....almost hunched over in pain with my coffee in hand, and make myslef comfortable. I promised myself that I wouldn't carry anything into the parks so I had a tiny wallet in my pocket with my necessities...AP, DDE card, DVC card, CC, Drivers LIcense and some money oh yes...also my cell phone...even though I turned it off. Just the basics. We arrive at the monorail and I thought should I take the monorail or the ferry. We normally don't take the ferry because it takes to much time and we have always been on a commando schedule. Not this time....I spied the ferry pulling in and docking..perfect...besides the last thing I wanted to do was sit. I found a great spot and leaned over the railing enjoying my coffee. It was such a perfect day someone was truly looking over my shoulder and making this trip a great one for me. I really felt relaxed and didn't think about anything else but unwinding. As I see the MK....I get this almost giddy smile on my face...I think I may shed a tear or two....I really didn't care what people thought...I didn't know them...and they didn't know me.

The ferry arrives without incident and I make my way through the turnstiles and enter the MK......I can't explain the feeling I had when I saw Main St. It was a feeling of sadness mixed with elation. I was sad that I didn't have anyone to share this experience with but I was happy to be by myself and had no "responsibility" of any sorts except for myself. I really enjoyed taking int he scenery...I took my time...people watched and I did something I never get to do when I am with family...I strolled in the shops....and "noodled" around. I made mental notes of what I was going to purchase on my way out of the park today. It was great. I was in no rush to go on any rides those were going to be a bonus this trip. I was going to things that I never get to do when I am with the family. I managed to catch the end of Cinderellbration....I have seen it quite a few times and really enjoy watching it. I then headed to Tommorland and went on the COP. I love this ride and I hope they never get rid of it...although I would like to see them update it a bit. While I was in COP there were these teenagers sitting in front of me...who obviously were here on spring break and who obviusly were never in WDW. It was interesting to hear there conversation they were talking about fast pass and if it was worth them using it...they weren't quite sure what it was and how to use it.. Can you imagine...I thought everyone knows about fastpass. Well normally I would guide them and teach them...but this time...I kept my big mouth shut....and just enjoyed listening to them. It was nice to hear these teenagers say that they enjoyed the ride and wanted to see it again. Maybe I should fill them in on fastpass......not....I really didn't feel like striking up a conversation.

I made my way to the people mover......I wanted to hear...paging Mr. Morrow....Mr. Tom Morrow...that always puts a smile on my face and besides. It was just so relaxing.....you'll hear me say that through this trip report....it was really a great trip. After the people mover I strolled, yes literally I took my time to smell the roses. I made my way to Fantasyland....what was I going to do next...most of the rides had a 20 minute wait...and I really wasn't pressed to ride any of them...so I went to Mickey's Philermagic....my favortie 3d. It was a about a 5 minute wait for the doors to open....not to bad....and besides I wasn't in a rush...and I wanted to sit in the way back so that I could judge for myself on how it looks from the back rows. I found a seat and I was back row and center. I had a young girl college age sitting next to me....she worked for Disney and she had a group of kids with her...she explained to me that Disney has some type of educational program for kids of different ages. If I could remember what it was called I would tell you but I can't. She was excited for me that I was there alone. I was excited for myself. I have seen Philermagic at least 10 times and every time I spot something different in it. I love it.

After philermagic...I thought I would ride IASW but it had a 30 minute wait...no big deal. I head of to ride the Haunted Mansion.....I have been dying to ride this last time the kids didn't want to go. There was a 10 minute wait and I was going. This was Spring break week...I am never in Disney at this time....because I don't like the crowds....but I seemed to be avoiding them. At HM...I managed to be next to another group of teenagers...who were very nice and polite. There was one boy he look about 14 or 15 who was literally sweating....because he didn't know what to expect on this. His friends were teasing him especially this one particular boy. I whispered to the sweating kid....don't worry you will enjoy this it's not that scary. he looked at me and smiled. As we enter to the "dead center" of the room somehow....I managed to stand next to the kid who was teasing the sweating boy....well...I never laughed so hard when this kid screamed..I literally had tears running down my face....as the room moves there are 2 disney cast members dressed to the part....one of them puts both his hands on this kids shoulder...well he screamed like a little girl it was pretty funny. That's what you get for making fun of your friend. I enjoyed the ride..strolled around liberty square for a bit. I managed to go into the hall of presidents....and I thouroughly enjoyed that....this another thing that I am never able to do with the kids there.

I had decided earlier that I would leave the park by noon time and go to the pool at the hotel. It was about 11:30am and I was just a little hungry. I love the LTT and decided I would have lunch there. How long for a party of 1 I asked.....she replied not long. Ok so I waited...I had forgotten that they announce your name, how many in your party and where you are from when they call you for your table. I was a bit nervous at first because I didn't want anyone to know I was by myself...then I thought who cares....I don't know them and they don't know me. After about a 5 minute wait...I get my table and no the waiter did not scream my name out...partly because I saw him grab just one menu and I knew it was for me....and stodd close enough to him that no on noticed I was alone. He gave me a great table in the corner by the window. I knew exactly what I wanted...I ordered the salad with grilled chicken...I love their salads...very light, tasty and refreshing.

While I was waiting for lunch to come I decided to check my messges. I had one message it was from my cousins son....who lives in the area and wanted to know if I would like to meet them for dinner. Sounds nice...so I called him back...and he wanted to know if he and his fiance should come out earlier than dinner time...to "hang out" with me. Now this took courage for me....because I normally have a problem saying no....but this time....I explained to him that I wanted to be by myself...and I had planned to spend the afternoon by the pool. I would meet them for dinner, but I didn't want to give them a time...since I hadn't planned on scheduling anything. I did mention to him that I wanted to go see Fantasmic tonight. He said they would join me....since they had never seen it...that was fine with me. So I left it that I would call them later in the afternoon and tell them what I wanted to do. They were planning on spending the afternoon in the parks anyway. So that sounded ok to me. ...I needed peace and quite it didn't mean I was going to be anti-social.

I enjoyed my lunch and made my way out of the park..it was about 12:30 when I reached POP...and on my way back to the room I noticed the Hipp Dippy pool was very crowded and noisy. I had a bright idea...I am a DVCer why not drive to SSR and enjoy that pool. Great idea!! But first I want to lay down for a few minutes to rest my achin' back.

I leave you with this for now because...my insomnia seems to be wearing off...and maybe I could get a few hours sleep before I have to get up and unfortunately it's Saturday I have to do into the office. So I need my sleep whatever sleep I can get.

 

[RadioFanatic]

great story - good for you, taking a much needed, much DESERVED trip for yourself. can't wait to read the rest.

 

[twotoohappy]

Great report so far! I know how you felt entering MK. I walked in alone, was so happy, but still a bit sad to be alone. The sadness wore off as soon as a heard this young boy having a melt down and knew that it wasn't my problem (I smiled and then strolled merrily along). I'm glad you got to get away. Can't wait to read more.

 

[pumba]

I am soooo enjoying your report.....My husband and I go to Disney alone and sometimes we take the grandkids......We are just disney nuts....We have a 35 mm minolta and one of the lens is HUGE......but it does take the most awesome photos ......I am glad that you had enough courage to say.....I VANT TO BE ALONEEEEEEEEE......you need it .....and we enjoy that DDE card too...sure does come in handy for our eating....
thanks again

 

[heaven2dc]

So glad you took the time for yourself - you definitely deserved and needed this vacation! Anxious to hear how the rest of the trip goes. (and those boys in the HM - what a scream! ) Someday I'll get brave and go solo too.

 

[Minniespal]

Enjoying reading your report ~ Sounds as though it was a well deserved vacation.

 

[mom2my3kids]

You know that Bobby Flay just seems like a cocky butt to me anyway. I dont care to watch him on television. Now bring on Tyler Florence..lol

 

[slk537]

You know that Bobby Flay just seems like a cocky butt to me anyway. I dont care to watch him on television. Now bring on Tyler Florence..lol

HAA!!!!

I agree on both points!!!

I am also really enjoying your report - on our next trip I am thinking it might be fun to take the boat over to the MK by myself when my boys are in the pool at VWL...you have inspired me! Who knows? It could be really, really fun! As long as I have my cellphone to call them, I'm good.

Hope you got some sleep and look forward to more!

 

[DisneyAunt]

Thanks for the great feedback!! Doing this trip report helps me escape the real world. My father announced today that he is only going to live until June and wants me to take him to the bank so he can take all his money out and disperse it to the children. Hmmmm....children...where is my other sibling while I am taking care of Dad. I'm sure he will be front and center for the payout.

Anyway I told Dad that he can't die in June...I plan on taking him to FLorida to see his sister then. Little does he know that I am trying to plan another get away for myself in May. I think I might just tell him I have a conference to go to....He'll never know and it will save us all from his nasty comments.

I'll try and post some more of my trip later tonight.

Thanks again everyone!!

 

[DisneyAunt]

Day 2 Full Day Alone Con't

So I was going to rest my achin' back. But the it was such a nice day that I just wanted to get changed and make my way to the pool. I got into my bathing suit and put my favortie pool/beach shorts and T-shirt on. I can't seem to get rid of them..they are so comfortable and you know what I really don't care what they look like..they are comfortable. So if anyone saw me in ratty tatty shorts stop staring I'm comfortable! I took my last bottle of water with me. I made a mental note that I needed to head over to the grocery store, I also wanted to get an ice pack for my achin back. I figured I would head to the grocery store after I baked in the sun for a bit.

I arrive at SSR without incident. I felt like a snob when I checked in with security....here I was with my dark sunglasses on, my baseball cap, and my ratty tatty shorts & t-shirt.....I here to use my pool, I said and I showed him my DVC card and the nice little old security guard smiled and said "welcome Home". I felt like I was entering my home. No I don't have a gate or security guard in real life. I just got the warm fuzzy feeling when he said welcome home and I felt like I owned the place. Well actually I do, .0000012% of it. Ha HA....I wish I owned the whole place. I parked by the place where they sell you your DVC....I can't for the life of me remember what it's called. I walked towards the pool and I realized it's a Saturday during spring break on a beautiful day at 1pm....what in heck makes me think I will get a lounge chair!!!

I came to that realization when I saw a bunch of people laying on their chairs in shade on the walkway between the 2 buildings. Oh great...this will be a waste of a drive over I thought. I walked into the pool area and started scanning for a chair in the sun. Oh...I see one.....on no there is a towel on it....could someone have forgotten it. There was this woman there with her 3 kids and what look like her mother. Maybe the chair is one of her childrens....Would they give it up for someone with an achin' back. I walk over to them.....excuse me but is this chair taken. We were just leaving she replies. Great!!! I get myself together and plop myself on the chair. The family gets their stuff together and leaves. You know what.....I was really mad at them. Because they didn't clean up after themselves....they left about 5 towels on the ground and on chairs. They had several newspapers on the ground. How dare they leave their garbage for others to clean up. It really annoyed me. I almost got up and cleaned it up except that a CM beat me to it. No wonder why our maintenance fees have gone up. Although one good thing out of it...I did put their newspapers to good use...I was able to read them. I layed in the sun about an hour or so....and then went in the pool and did some stretching for my achin back. I was enjoying people watching. I most especially enjoyed watching "kids" go down the slide. It was pretty funny....I was watching this group of kids having a great time going down the slide, and I thought I would love to try that...but I didn't want to embarass myself. As I am thinking this.....this woman of pooh size comes flying down the slide screaming....the pool went to a dead silence to stare at her. Well made a huge spalsh and when she bobbed her head out of the water she was hysterical laughing.......and at the side of the pool were her 2 darling kids cheering her on. Without hesitation and without noticing we were all staring at her....she gets out of the pool to give it another go at the slide. She must have gone down about 10 times, I give that woman credit...I could never do that..especially being there alone and with so many people looking. So if it was anyone on this board....I APPLAUD YOU!!! I love to see people having fun.

I got out of the pool to dry off and get some sun. Afterall I had to look like I went to Florida. Actually....after a long snowy winter here in the northeast my milk colored skin needed a little color. Before I new it was 4pm. So I got my things together and made my way to the car.

My plan was to go to Walmart on 535 but as I was driving there I suddenlt became tired and I decided to just stop at CVS, So I picked up some water, a couple of bottles of soda, some snacks and my best friend my ice pack. I checked out and hobbled to my car. Those lounge chairs didn't help my achin' back.

I made it back to my room and turned on my cell phone to check messages. My cousins son was at MGM and was waiting for me to call him for the evening plans. I called him and told him I would meet them around 6-6:30 for dinner and then we would catch fantasmic. He informed me that Fantasmic was cancelled for the night because of technical difficulties. Darn I really wanted to see it. Oh well I'll catch it another night. I asked him if he wanted to meet me in Epcot instead, he said sure. So it was a plan....Epcot and then Illuminations. But first I had to chill my ice pack. I went to get ice from the ice machine and stuck my ice pack in the ice bucket and then I put water in the ice bucket. There that should be nice and cold by the time I get back. I got cleaned up and dressed and made my way to Epcot.

I met them right by the photo place. When I say them...I mean him and his fiance. They are young and he is still in college and she works. If you ask me to young to make a committment like that. But that's my opinion. We said our hello's and we were gossiping about family. We decided to see if we could ride Soarin' of course there was a 90 minute wait....I have become spoiled I will not wait more than 20 minutes for a ride. We decided to ride Living with the Land ride...I absolutely love it. And they were making fun of me because I had e-mailed them a picture of my prototype of the mickey head so I can frown my own mickey shaped pumpkins. After the ride we checked to see if Soarin' time had decreased, it hadn't it was actually longer.

I haven't been to the living seas area in a while and they told me I have to see Turtle Talk with crush. Ok...I'm game as we are walking over there, I kept scratching my right chest area.....what's that about I'm thinking. Maybe I got to much sun. Yeah that's probably it. As we wait for the next show we start to gossip about family again....C'mon...every does it. It makes me laugh when we talk about my family and the stupid things they do. There's that darn itch again. It's our turn to go in.....and the room fills very quickly we take the seat in the last row. Unfortunately...I was very uncomfortable sitting so I stood in the back. It was a cute show...however I missed a portion of it. Why you ask.....because I was busy looking to see what was causing my itching. Let me paint this picture for you...I am standing behind my cousin's fiance, and she had just turned around to make sure that I was ok standing, when she caught me looking into my shirt with my hand in my b**bs. Well low and behold I found the cause of my itching...it was a HUGE bug. I didn't scream....but I whispered there is a big a** bug on my b**b. She almost went pale because she hates bugs. I'm not a fan of them either but...my concern was getting it off of me. So I did what any woman would have done...I flicked it off. The only problem was that she thought it landed on her and she screamed. LOL....I couldn't stop laughing. Even Crush made a comment about the scream. The bug landed on the floor and was probably trampled. It was hysterical....I laughed so hard the my achin' back ached. Needless to say I have to see Turtle Talk again.

After that incident we made our way to the world showcase. We were all quite hungry by now, but we didn't know what to eat. I suggested Chinese since I had never eaten in China. That was fine with everyone. We had a long walk since we had started by Canada. It seemed to have gone by quickly and we were are the CHina Pavilion in no time. We asked for a table for 3 and we were seated right away. It was pretty busy and our waiter was not the friendliest. He had no sense of humor and was rushing us. Since I was very relaxed by this time and had no thoughts of what was going on at home, I was about to let some dumb waiter rush me or ruin our evening. The food was great and very plentiful. Our dinner talk was a wide range of topics, these two are young but very mature for their age and I do enjoy talking to them. One of the many conversations we had was about ATM and debit cards and carrying cash with you. They tell me they never carry cash, that they use their debit card all the time. To me that's crazy, it's wither cash or nothing for me. I am probably the only person who doesn't have an ATM card or Debit card. They couldn't believe it. I don't even know how to use an ATM card. I should have guess wher this conversationw as going....when the bill arrived no one made a motion for it except me. Not even...i will leave the tip. Of course that can't leave a tip they have not cash on them!! Oh well I hope they enjoyed their dinner.....I didn't even get a thanks for dinner.

We were making our way back we had to stop and get a pretzel for his fiance in Germany. And I watch her pay for it with a debit card...that amazes me you can't cary $20 bucks with you for smal little things. I don't think I will ever understand. I suggested we watch Illuminations as close to future world as we could get for a quck exit. They agreed with that.

Now I have to tell you Illuminations is not my favorite show however...when we were there in November we had an Illuminations Cruise and got the full story and explanation of the show...it was wonderful. I don't think I could ever appreciate illuminations like I did that night. So watching it from where we were did nothing for me. We left before it was over, we said our goodbyes and we went on our way. It was about 9:30 and I was tired.

I was glad to be going back to the room with my ice cold Ice pack waiting for me. I managed to find a parking spot this time. When I got out of the car I could hardly walk....and was in a lot of pain. Uh ooo...all the days adventure is catching up to me. I slowly made it back to the room. Got into my PJ's, got my beloved ice pack and attempted to get comfortable in bed. I could not for the life of me get comfortable. I was feeling every spring that bed had. I even checked the other bed same thing. My back pain was getting worse and I was having serious spasms, and it was passing my high pain tolerance thershhold. Then I remembered...I had Darvocet with me. Now...I am not used to taking any sort of medication. I couldn't tell you the last time I took tylenol. When I took the Darvocet from my ER incident it made me naseous but it also made me sleep....so I figured why not at least I would sleep. I took one....and tried to get myself comfortable with my many pillows and ice pack. Well I was right it did make me sleep. I was also right it did make me naseous. So nauseous that had to get up and run to the bathroom to throw up like I have never thrown up. And my back still hurt. Now I have to tell you something....I know this has happened to every one of at least one time, so don't laugh at me. While I was throwing up.....I......um.......I ....
pee'd all over myself. There I said it. I'll give you second to laugh...go ahead keep laughing. Finished....ok. I was like great not only, am I in pain, but I just threw up nice dinner, and pee'd on myself. Now I had to get cleaned up and changed. I thought oh my god I'm going to die here in the Disney Motel 6. I took a few sips of the Sprite I bought earlier and my stomach started settling down. It was about 2am now...and I really wanted to get some sleep.....and I planned on sleeping late the next morning too. My bed was so uncomfortable that I took the blanket from the second bed and put it on my mattress and then I took the sheet from the other bed and put that on top it. It was decent but I couldn't wait to go to OKW tomorrow and sleep in a real bed. I managed to fall asleep about 3am or so. I didn't sleep well probably because I was anxious to pack up and go to OKW.

I hope that everyone is enjoying this report. I never realized how long it would take to write. Now I know why HappyHaunt and ZZub took forever to write theirs.

 

[pumba]

thank you so much.......and yes you made me roar with laughter.....I have had the bug incident only being from Maine I screamed.....we are the other couple that does not do atm or debit or whatever the heck they are called....we pay ....thanks again for your day in the parks

 

[roberrl187]

Your report is great. Keep up the good work.

I had your vomiting experience recently with a bad case of the flu. I was so embarassed. But then I really had to laugh at myself. I was a pitiful sight.