"ENCHANTED TALES with ROB" - A Birthday/Christmas DISer Celebration! **NEW TR LINK**

[TheMaxRebo]

Great tribute to Walt Rudi g the two mountains. While Walt died before Slash was designed that is one attraction I know he would love.

First thought I had when you mentioned being "green" to enter was that it was Disney's way of saying "you are now free to spend money here"

Quite the tease of a post, with all the ".... but I will get to that later" .... not like we aren't already psyched to read more already

 

[nataliej_vk]

I always love reading a trip report by a fellow Canuck! And your report is taking me from this polar vortex that is dumping on us here, helping me survive my 21 days till we leave for the Magic!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Rob, I just can't help but smile the whole way through your updates. You're just so upbeat and positive.
Your pictures really capture the excitement of walking into Magic Kingdom first thing in the morning. Love it!
The Happy Birthday Walt signs are awesome, I can't believe all the CMs didn't know his birthday! Your idea for the CM screening questions sounds good to me.
No wait on Splash ftw!
No shame stalking Big Al. He rocks.
No Small World? I would be really upset about that. I have such a soft spot for iasw, it's a sentimental favourite and it just wouldn't be a Disney trip without it for me!

(p.s. -- heading your way Saturday for a day trip! Have to get some retail therapy in!!)

Aww Wendy, you're making me blush How sweet of you to say that.

Thank you. I just love that first walk in so much. I really just enjoy taking my time, especially solo, not in a rush to get somewhere.

Thanks for that too!!! It was so odd to me, it really was. Honestly I'll even, (reluctantly) give up the Stacey question since it is more of a Disney resort thing. But coming to work and not knowing it's Walt's birthday is inexcusable I think.

Totally. See, no need to rush.

God love that bear.

Hahaha, as you can plainly see, I was devastated.

OHHHH YAY for me catching up on TRs. I'm just working my way through!

I still have a bunch to get through but, yeah, at least it's a start.

ANYWAY. HOORAY FOR A DISMEET! That's always fun! Mine was with my friend Rachel who is near and dear to me... and we ate Dole Whips and went on Pirates. It was the best. And now, I've run into many different DISers, which is awesome.

HAHA is it wrong for me to admit I laughed at the Adult Stacey? Though it's SO WRONG.

I WANT SNOW! We have had such a lack of it this winter in the PNW and it's driving me crazy... but I doubt at this point that we'll see any, wompwomp.

I love that you chose to eat chicken nuggets over seafood because you'd just met Ariel, hahahhaa. But those chicken nugs are the best, so I can't argue.

I've yet to see Cinderella Castle with the Christmas lights yet. Only Sleeping Beauty. I don't know when I will see it in WDW though because we LOVE going to Disneyland during Christmas so much! It's a quicker and easier (and less expensive) trip for us, so yeah, it's kind of hard. But Cinderella Castle IS absolutely gorgeous. I'm sure one day we'll make it there though!

Your issues with all of the people remind me of our issues we had in Disneyland with the crazy amounts of people waiting for the Christmas parade. Let's just say we found ourselves running all over because they had EVERYTHING roped off. It was a weebit annoying... and stressful. Plus cutting across the street during the parade... Crowds in Disney parks are not my favorite, so if I'd been in your position I'd probably have run away, hahaha.

It's always a mega bummer when things don't work out in Disney, so I'm sorry that happened to you. But I have a suspicion that you'll get to see it here soon.. Plus, now you have a reason to go back during your birthday, right?!

SPLASH MOUNTAIN. My favorite... and I am DETERMINED to one day meet Brer Rabbit and Brer Bear. Determined. But I always just miss out. Wompwomp. One day I will!

WOW, you are a machine!!! and also

You know you have to start somewhere. Now if people would stop updating you'd be all set, lol.

And my first one too!!!! (But certainly not last). Honestly, those are the things I love about these boards the most. Yes, I love reading, and ESPECIALLY love writing, but to meet "strangers" and have them not really be "strangers" is remarkable. And your description of your first sounds a lot like one I have yet to come.

Haha, no it's not wrong... it's WRONG!!!! Actually I admit I had a giggle as well.

NO YOU DON'T!!!!!! We are just getting killed this year. And when you see snow in Georgia and Florida, you know Elsa's not happy. BUT, can I just add how much I love seeing a Dani "wompwomp" on my TR.

OMG I am addicted to those nuggets. I don't know why, I just am. But nope, no seafood.

I can totally get going to D-Land for the holidays for you of course. But you NEED to see the Dream Lights. You can look at all the pictures in the world and it will not prepare you. It is one of a kind gorgeous.

That was a lot of the problem for me too Dani. All the people PLUS all the ropes. And I'm just not aggressive enough in general to push my way through. But really, it was just poor timing and poor planning, so totally my fault. But I was able to turn that disappointment around and into one of my fav trips ever.

Aww thanks Dani and your suspicion is valid. Not only will I see it, but I will have one of my most amazing and fun nights in Disney... ever. Haha, and yes, any excuse to return for a birthday trip. Maybe that was my plan all along.

Oh me too!!!!! I have met Brer Rabbit (Animal Kingdom in 2009), but no Brer Bear yet. Of course my goal is Big Al. Gee, I hope I get to meet him someday...

AHHHH two Dani "Wompwomp's" in one comment.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Rob, you in front of the closed Small World brings a tear to my eye

I bet you were like "best trip to the Magic Kingdom, ever!"

Oh, btw, I was thinking about our last trip and came up with a really easy way for you to do "CM's around the world" next time. We took passports for our girls and stopped at all of the Kidcot stations, which were staffed by the real deal CM's from other countries. Easy peazy, dude.

(Plus, they were all pretty easy on the eyes)

Looking forward to the next update!

Bahaha, it is indeed a pitiful sight.

Noooo, I was heartbroken, lol.

You know, I almost used the KidCot Stations as a source in the past. I actually ended up not because some of those CM's (certainly not all, but some) looked like they would rather be anywhere else but there. They just did not look happy, so I stayed clear.

However... I may make an exception...

Those signs were perfect!

I have to say that I don't think it is a coincidence that your birthday and Walt's birthday are so close.

Teresa

Aww THANK YOU!! I knew I had to do something and this just made sense.

Haha, you know, I was born at sometime between 11 and 12 at night, so depending on the timezone, we kind of do share a birthday. At least that's what I like to point out to people, lol

That is so crazy that no one knew it was Walt's birthday....do they even know who he is? Good grief people that is a bit sad.

Splash Mountain first thing in the morning in December, very brave of you! I rode only one time this December and got soaked.....the water seemed more abundant then in past trips did you notice that or was it just me? BTW ummm the country bear characters are creepy and I will probably have nightmares now because of your post. LOL!

I saw your planned shirt for the day and the first thing I thought was "oh no he did not know about the rehab!" Poor Rob. This is one of my DD favorite rides and I freaked a little when I saw it was going to be down in December,until I noticed that it would be open on our last day. That stinks though...sorry that you missed that boo...hiss!

OMG Jenn, it really was sad. I can forgive a lot of things, but seriously, not this. So very sad. But I assure you, a lone CM will redeem them all in my eyes.

You know, that morning if I remember correctly was pretty warm, so not too bad. I do think Disney has the ability to turn up or down the water volume (I know for sure they can on Kali at AK) depending on the temperature. So it is very likely what you've described.
Bahahahahaha, OMG I'm so sorry. I just love those bears so much. I guess I just grew up with them so I have a real attachment.

Oh no, I was VERY aware of the refurb. Small World scares me. Just like the country bears for you, those small world dolls terrify me. PLUS... that song... over and over... and over and over... and it's so slow... Haha, THAT is the source of the I Survived shirt. I don't ride it... I merely survived it. I'm sure it would be different if had kids though.

UUURRGHH STTTAAAAHHHPPP with that title #uglycry

Man I really need to start taking more pictures from the monorail! Yours are great!! Uhm…that girl in the front of space looks like she’s legit dying, like the ride hasn’t even started yet….WHOOPS

Also, like *** cast members, how do so many of them not know when it’s Walt’s birthday? Well, I guess that kidna makes sense, Steven said that yesterday no one had wished Aurora a “happy birthday” and she was super excited once he did…guess people aren’t up to par with their Disney knowledge?

Aahaha oh you just love big al, hey? That frontierland hoedown is just the weirdest thing, a friend that’s in it said I’m not missing much by having never seen it, but like, what even is it?! Lol

Wait, what the heck Peter, you’re not supposed to like Wendy all that much…. Also that was the best friend of peter that steven & I met all that week, and we met like, 6….

BAHAHA

….my only reaction to that closing picture….

#perf

Haha. That title was picked for a very specific reason (other than the obvious birthday) as you will see.

Aww thanks Katt. I don't always do it, but sometimes I just can't help it. That whole ride is so much part of my childhood that I just feel it necessary to capture some of that.
Bahaha, Oh I know. Space Mountain photos I swear are some of the best because... NOTHING'S HAPPENED YET!!!! And still some people have the strangest reactions. And you can tell the "fake" ones from the real ones, and she was 100% real.

Honestly I was appalled. I was really expecting to see more references or something, and just nuthin'. EXCEPT for something later on. But still, IT'S FREAKIN' WALT DISNEY'S BIRTHDAY!!!! If I was a cast member I would check every day to see if there was anything significant that particular day. Awesome for Steven to do that with Aurora.

Oh I so do. Hopefully I'll get to meet him. You know I haven't even seen the hoedown. I tried in April, but they must have cancelled it. I don't think it's on the times guide, but is in the CM guide, which is how I got the times. But then it never happened.

Haha, capturing Peter down on one knee just cracked me up. Not really sure what was really going on. Oh yes, Buff Peter is absolutely the best.

You can just feel the disappointment can't you?

How can anyone be in Disney or even work for Disney and not know that that day was his birthday! This is why I should work in Disneyworld….sigh…if only

Also That's so cool to see the Country Bears all walking about! I don't think I've ever seen that happen.

Hahahahaha at the Small world refurb being closed…another huge disappointment on this birthday trip…man you can't catch a break..

RIGHT??!! I would make it a point to check every day if there was anything that might be significant. There's just no excuse for this and it really made me sad. I wasn't even angry... just sad. But it will be made up for later, I assure you.

I think it happens at times throughout the day as they do some kind of hoedown though I have yet to see it. It was cool though.

Seriously, just one catastrophe after another.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Rob, the CMs must not be taught the important stuff like Walt's birthday in their Traditions class. Sadness. At least you were there to educate them.

Your psychic abilities are truly remarkable. Glad that you were able to send a shout out for Walt's birthday. Well done!

Awww Peter on his knee by Wendy. Wendy looks like she's thinking... I don't see a ring there buddy!

You are not having luck my friend. First Wishes and now IaSW. So sorry for another disappointment. I'm sure your luck has to turn around.

And you know this is a pretty important piece of info too. What made it even worse though was when I did educate them, they didn't seem to care, like it was no big deal. That's what really made me sad. But don't you worry Brenda... redemption is coming.

Thank you. Who knew I had those abilities aided only by a small piece of almost irrelevant information. And THANK YOU!! I wanted to make sure to get photos on those 2 since the only other ride photo is Buzz, and that one just isn't the same.

Bahahaha, yeah, she didn't look all that eager.

Just one thing after the other Brenda. But the tide she is a changing in a big way.

Wow, it looks like it was a gorgeous day weather-wise! Good morning so far....though the IASW photo...

Julie, the weather for the entire trip was fabulous. Not one drop of rain and beautiful sunny skies. All except for the cloud of sadness hovering over Small World of course.

well jokes aside Riley was really sad that we missed small world ,but she was very happy to meet you and says that's better than Small world anyday! I'd have to agree

Awww Well Carrie, I can guarantee that as much as Small World scares me, I would have ridden for Ry, no question.

Haha I love your Small World shirt, too funny!

Getting a front row spot is a sign its going to be an amazing day!

You are totally right, the Mickey wreath at the Comptemporary is the best Christmas decoration ever, so big!

I love the ride photos with the signs, I think they are great! And what a wonderful tribute to the man that started it all! I can't believe the CMs didn't know what day it was, you'd think that would be in their training or something.

Splash Mountain definitely deserves the nickname happiest cruise that ever sailed, such a fabulous ride. Its so well done and I love how long it is. I'm very sad I only got to ride it once last trip : (

Fan-girling over Big Al to funny!

Haha I definitely wasn't that bummed when I saw Small World was closed that week

Ahhh thanks Jess.

Yes, totally agree. Also means it was early, lol.

I remember the first time I saw it. I just couldn't get over it. So big and beautiful. I want one!!

Aww THANK YOU!! It was just necessary and the only thing I could think of. Honestly, I would think there would at least be something when they arrive for work that tells them of anything significant for that day. Just appalling really.

It really is too and so long. You don't find rides that are anywhere near that long anymore. I never got on it much either for probably the same reason as you. It's always broken.

Haha

Yeah, I somehow was able to get over it, lol.

That was so nice of you to share the monorail

Gosh I love those Christmas Mickey & Minnie statues in the windows!

Love all the Splash photos. Omg so many cool characters when you got off! BIG ALL WOO HOO!

HAHAHA great photo to end the update

Haha, thank you. I was in a giving mood that morning.

Aren't they cute??? I've surprised I don't actually take a lot of window photos, but these just felt necessary.

Aww thanks. And MY GOD, there was a lot of characters. But of course they were quickly forgotten when I spotted Big Al!!!!

Hahaha, I knew long time readers would enjoy that. That was one photo taken specifically for this TR.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

IASW it's not a fave but I hate going without riding it. I was there once during a rehab and I was sad.

You know, I totally get people's love of it (or even like of it), I really do. I certainly appreciate it and its message and its Walt connection. But I just can't do that song over and over. I just can't, lol.

Great update!

Thank you so much!!!

Ah, yes. I'm sure you faced complete and total devastation over IASW being closed. I know I would ... not... have shed a tear.

Bahahahaha, yeah it was AWFUL!!!!! Just oh so devastating. How I managed to keep it all together I'll never know.

That's really sad that people working there didn't know it was Walt's birthday. You'd think that would be plaster all over the utilidoors or something. Balloons..Anything????

I've been during Walt's birthday and there's always been a sense of it being extra special (at least to me, but I'm sentimental).

Awesome you saw the B'rer's .... I have yet to ever see them

EXACTLY!!!!! I can't believe that nothing was done and seriously there's no excuse. It makes me really sad that the company seems to be getting further and further away from acknowledging Walt directly.

See, it's up to US to keep that going. But I'm up to that for sure. And there are a few CM's I encountered that still get it.

So cool. I got a picture with Rabbit years ago but never Bear or Fox. At least I don't think so. It's possible I have some when I was a kid. Hmmm, I'll have to look.

All caught up...really enjoying your TR!! Helping me wait out the time until I will be there in April (79 days to go!!)

Yay and more than that THANK YOU! So glad it helps fill the time until your upcoming trip. Ahh I need an upcoming trip, lol.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

"Simple questions like “When is Walt Disney’s birthday?” or “Do you know who Stacey is?”
Would really help weed out the undesirables."

But...yes. All of the above.

See Meg, this is why they should be consulting us on any and all hiring.

I LOVE the huge Mickey wreath! I actually caught a few glimpses of it when riding the PeopleMover, but unfortunately couldn't get a pic.

Toy soldiers

Whaaaaaat CMs that don't know when Walt's birthday is? Lame.

The picture of the empty Splash boat makes my heart hurt. I should be there! Two of my friends are at WDW this weekend, so the not-at-WDW depression is hitting hard.

Love that you got to see some Country Bears, but I'm all about Brer Rabbit!

Never Say Never Land

Hahaha, love the Small World pic! I can see how devastated you are that it's closed.

Isn't it wonderful??? I remember the first time I saw it and was just... WOW!

Oh God they're awesome, especially now that I've seen that video. Makes me appreciate all the hard work they do.

L to the AME Courtney! I'm still in shock over that. And some gave off a vibe that it wasn't that big of a deal anyway. And a lot of them were older CM's too. Redemption is coming though. Just you wait.

Ahhh such a good feeling walking up there and seeing empty boats knowing there will be no line. I feel your pain. I've seen so many people at or heading to the World recently. IT SHOULD BE ME!!!!

It was nice to see them all. I'd met Brer Rabbit before, but not the others... at least at that point.

Still waiting on Wendy's response there.

Oh it was just so much pain, I don't know how I managed to carry on. But I did!

Yay for a super close parking spot at the TTC!

Thanks for sharing the monorail with the rest of us... you are far too kind! But no seriously, can you imagine if that monorail was only there for one person and we all just had to stare longingly at it as it drove by.

The Mickey Christmas Wreath at the Contemporary is one of my favorites, too!

Space and Splash first thing in the morning = But, that makes me sad the CM's didn't know it was Walt's birthday

I'll tell you, when you're driving it feels SO GOOD to park so close. Great way to start a day.

Hehe, I was in a giving mood. It was Walt's birthday after all. OMG I wouldn't even want to imagine that Lauren. That's the blessing and curse of the monorail. So close, and yet so far.

It is so beautiful and simple. I think that's what I love most about it is its simplicity.

Definitely a great one-two punch to start. But my GOD how these people didn't know what a special day it was did sting a little. BUT, just you wait...

I enjoyed your updates! I love the double Mickey picture at the Contemporary.

Help me out on the timing, here. Regular or EMH morning? You were at the front of the TTC parking lot. Were you there at rope drop? Opening show or were you by the archways at the entrance?

OK, I'm going to play devil's advocate here and defend the CMs. Do you know the birthday of the founder and or president of the company you work for? (please don't kick me off your trip report) I know, I know, it's Walt.

However, ITA with you about Stacey. You HAVE to know who she is and I am so sad for those who don't.


YAY! Space!

YAY! Splash!

YAY! Big Al & Company- I don't think I have seen that particular hoedown.

Thanks Dee. That shot was just a fluke, but I like how it turned out.

It was just regular hours, but I just missed the rope drop. But because it was a party day, the park was REALLY quiet. Party days are wonderful for low crowds.

That's it, you're banned.
Actually I honestly thought about that too. But as you said, it's Walt. I certainly wouldn't expect acknowledgement of Iger's birthday, lol. I think what really bummed me out a bit was when they were told, they really didn't seem to care. Truthfully I probably just have a much more romanticized version of CM's than the reality. But in fairness, you're right. WDW has 65K+ employees, so not all of them are Disney freaks. BUT, I would feel MUCH better about it all later on, so no harm done.

Bahahaha, RIGHT!!?? It's funny but I actually (begrudgingly) give some a small pass on that only because many probably have never stayed on property before. Of course, that's a whole other issue, lol.

YAY MOUNTAINS!!!

You know, I have yet to actually see the hoedown myself. This is the second time it happened while I was riding Splash only to catch them all leaving. My timing there is not so great.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Priceless! Gotta love your T-shirt!

Yes - I agree that Stacy and Walt's Birthday should absolutely be part of the screening process. How nice of your to pay homage to Walt, even though the rest of the park was clueless. You know that WE appreciate it!

Bahahaha, I had that whole thing planned before I even left home.That was definitely on my Stacey Must Do's.

Aww thanks Mary Ellen. I guess being on the DIS, things like Stacey and Walt's birthday are a much bigger deal than in the "real world". It's easy to forget that with 65 thousand employees, not all will be as Disney obsessed as we all are. Still sad though, but redemption is coming in a big way!

Hooray for a close parking spot!

Seriously, the Cast Members didn't know Walt's birthday? I should say MULTIPLE Cast Members didn't know that it was their place of employement's namesake's birthday. I find this a bit ridiculous. They sold pins celebrating this day, for pete's sake.

A ride on Splash Mountain in the morning...sounds fun!

Hahaha, so funny too since I was just reading your comment replies. I also count the cars and am usually the lucky one who gets to start a brand new row.

It was disappointing for sure. Not so much that they didn't know, but moreso that the ones I encountered didn't seem to care. I still love CM's though, and this will be made right later on.

It was, and thankfully plenty warm enough.

Wow what a great spot! You lucked out. I love riding the monorail. Going through the contemporary will never cease to amaze me. And agreed, the mickey wreath is one of the best decorations on property!

It should be a rule that only disers are hired by disney. It's clear that we know more than some of these cast members.how could you not know that it's Walt's birthday?! I'm sure that there are CMs that were more informed, but knowing Walt's birthday should be a no brainer! Thank you for schooling them with your sign, Rob!

Aaaahhhhh it's Big Al!! Happy belated birthday to you! It's always fun to see them hanging out.

Can't wait to hear more!

It was awesome especially considering I was a little later than planned. I agree. That ride just turns me into a little kid as I remember doing that when I was a little kid. Special memories for sure. And that wreath, well, I want one.

Haha, I could get on board with that rule. It just seemed so weird to me, but then I was surprised many didn't know Stacey either. I guess it's easy to forget not everyone has the same affection we do. BUT, all is not lost as you will see in a big way.

Oh God I was such a little kid in that moment. I just love that bear so much. I wish he did Meet and Greets... hmmm... maybe he did.

WOW! Some "nevers" in this segment..

I have never seen "It's a small world" closed...

I have never seen The Country Bears out and about.

I love the "Happy Birthday Walt" sign! Way cool!

Haha, I knew it was down before I even got there (heartbroken of course). It was just a short refurb, but the funniest part was the dates were exactly my dates.

I'd only seen them once before. They do a hoedown a few times a day but I've still yet to see it.

Thanks Marcie. That sign will come into play later on IN A HUGE WAY!!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

I love getting to the Magic Kingdom so early that you don't need to take a tram to the TTC...yes, the little things like that make me happy! Parking close to the TTC!

Going on the monorail is always enjoyable, I wonder if there are actual people who exist and just look at it as a way to get to and from the parking lot?

Yay Splash Mountain! I feel like I've missed it on so many of my recent trips, I don't know why! It's either closed or the line is too long...next time, it will be my first stop!

OMG I never see the Country Bears just wandering around, that's so awesome! Actually, no, wait, I think I have seen them in front of their Jamboree, waiting for the MVMCP parade to start. But still, it's fun to see characters walking around the parks, since they do it so rarely now!

Oh no, IASW was closed!!! It was closed when I was there too, and my husband was actually happy about it, because it meant that I couldn't drag him on there! How rude!

Oh me tooooooo!!!!! Honestly, it is such a small thing, but it FEELS SO GOOD. VIP!!

You know, they probably do exist, but they suck, lol. The whole monorail thing was designed the way it is for a reason... as a magical entryway into the Magfic Kingdom.

It is closed A LOT!!! It's starting to get concerning because I love it so much! It was closed a lot this trip too. That's part of the reason I always try to get there first thing... just in case.

Exactly!!! It's hard to imagine that once upon a time, characters roamed. obviously too hard to do that now because little Mary would be heartbroken if she didn't meet the Princesses, so they had to organize. But that makes it all the more special when it does happen.

Yeah... I was crushed.

We had the same issue with Small World being down the plan was to have that be Landon's first ride but it didn't work out. It made us sad. At least you did a public service and helped the cast members lear something that they really should have known in the first place.

Haha, I have a feeling I wasn't as broken up as you were Alex. But for a child's first ride, I honesty can't think of a better one. That sucks that you didn't get to do that.
Haha, right??? Believe me though, that sign will pay off in spades later on.

Great tribute to Walt Rudi g the two mountains. While Walt died before Slash was designed that is one attraction I know he would love.

First thought I had when you mentioned being "green" to enter was that it was Disney's way of saying "you are now free to spend money here"

Quite the tease of a post, with all the ".... but I will get to that later" .... not like we aren't already psyched to read more already

Thanks Phil. Yeah, I have no doubt he would have adored Splash Mountain.

Haha, well there is that too. I guess I never thought of it since we have Monopoly money (aka multi-colored).

Awww gee thanks.

I always love reading a trip report by a fellow Canuck! And your report is taking me from this polar vortex that is dumping on us here, helping me survive my 21 days till we leave for the Magic!

And I love welcoming a fellow Canuck, Natalie!! Hasn't this winter been insane? But I will do my very best to help you pass the time until you arrive to the Magic in... 3 weeks? Jealous.

 

[emmysmommy]

Hi Rob! Letting you know that you made a guest appearance in our live dining thread here.

Since I haven't had time to start my December TR I'm sure you'll continue to make a few appearances in this thread.

 

[leftaslide]

You know, I almost used the KidCot Stations as a source in the past. I actually ended up not because some of those CM's (certainly not all, but some) looked like they would rather be anywhere else but there. They just did not look happy, so I stayed clear.

However... I may make an exception...

You know, now that you mention it, that is correct from what I remember. Except for Japan. The girl from Japan was really sweet and took the time to teach the girls a few words and did a nice drawing for them. But yes, for the most part, they were watching the clock.

 

[scottny]

Great pics inside Little Mermaid.
Peoplemover is one of my faves as you will see in my TR we ride a million times. LOL. Try to control those crowds with you on the ride. LOL.
Too bad about not getting there on time.
Hey you got Stacy. Woo-hoo.
Ooh back at MK again. We were in AK this day.
Beautiful pics of the park.
I was so bummed about IASW.
All caught up. Great updates and pics.

 

[Scoobymoons]

Hi Rob!

Hope you don't mind me joining in from over the pond - your report is making me chuckle a great deal - thanks I experienced my first Dis meet on my trip last summer - totally unexpected and smile-inducing. Looking forward to reading more.

 

[IheartDDuck]

Okay, time for a mega catchup after being gone!!!! READY......SET....GO!

What exactly was that pastry you ate back at POP that was covered in frosting? Looks interesting.....

You never saw the movie?! Wow. I actually never bypass the movie at One Man's Dream, because it's so good.

Yay, you met Katt. Awesome first DISmeet.

You got the cowboy! Awesome!!!!

Wow, a guy proposed on Tower of Terror?! I think my heart just exploded. That would rank as my favorite picture ever too.

Okay, duly noted. Rob does not like the Sofia meet and greet.

You are absolutely correct that Disney chicken nuggets are the best. They are typically a staple for me. Mmmmm...

Blankets and tape? For shame Disney.

I too love Big Al. He is just the best.

Oh no! I'm so sorry about missing Wishes! I'm shocked you couldn't fit anywhere! That just absolutely stinks.

Honestly, I am constantly surprised by how little some CM's know about Disney. I encountered it a few times on this past trip. I think I make the fatal error of thinking that they would have to love it as much as I do. Then I take pride in the fact that they are clearly the weirdos, and I'm the normal one.

 

[librarygeek]

I love your shirt! And such lovely pictures of MK in the morning. Looks like the sun was shining brightly for you!

How cool that you got to see those Frontierland Friends! I don't know that I've ever come across them like that.

I'm with you on IASW. I can appreciate it for what it is and how important it was to Disney history, but it personally doesn't do much for me. I normally don't ride it unless we're feeling rather bored. Plus, after reading Kingdom Keepers I'm always afraid the dolls are going to come to life and attack me...

 

[librarygeek]

I love your shirt! And such lovely pictures of MK in the morning. Looks like the sun was shining brightly for you!

How cool that you got to see those Frontierland Friends! I don't know that I've ever come across them like that.

I'm with you on IASW. I can appreciate it for what it is and how important it was to Disney history, but it personally doesn't do much for me. I normally don't ride it unless we're feeling rather bored. Plus, after reading Kingdom Keepers I'm always afraid the dolls are going to come to life and attack me...

 

[Pluto0809]

Hi! I hopped over here from Cheekypoppins TR and am now all caught up. I realized too that we have crossed paths on a lot of different TRs.

Way too much to comment on but I am loving the TR so far. I will say that I am soooooo jealous that you got to see Big Al! I would love to meet him someday.

I'm going to try to keep up but considering I leave for the World in 5 days , I'll probably end up getting behind.

 

[Linda67]

Rob, I just love your TR
You are taking me right back to WDW on a cold evening in the UK with your wonderful photos

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Hi Rob! Letting you know that you made a guest appearance in our live dining thread here.

Since I haven't had time to start my December TR I'm sure you'll continue to make a few appearances in this thread.

Brenda, THANK YOU SO MUCH for the link. I know you explained the dining thread to me, but since the Dining Board is uncharted territory for me and those live dining threads are HUGE, I had no idea where to go. So I followed your link, and did a little backtracking and picked up where everyone was leaving for the World. Thank you so much again. I'm really looking forward to seeing and hearing all the stories from everybody especially since I wormed my way in to some of it. Plus, maybe I can snipe some photos that may be useful, lol.

You know, now that you mention it, that is correct from what I remember. Except for Japan. The girl from Japan was really sweet and took the time to teach the girls a few words and did a nice drawing for them. But yes, for the most part, they were watching the clock.

Haha, obviously it doesn't apply across the board, but if there was a sour looking CM in the Showcase, it was usually at the KidCot table. Some of them seriously do not seem to like kids... or people in general, lol. I so agree with you on Japan though. Without a doubt the most universally pleasant CM's in the entire showcase.

Great pics inside Little Mermaid.
Peoplemover is one of my faves as you will see in my TR we ride a million times. LOL. Try to control those crowds with you on the ride. LOL.
Too bad about not getting there on time.
Hey you got Stacy. Woo-hoo.
Ooh back at MK again. We were in AK this day.
Beautiful pics of the park.
I was so bummed about IASW.
All caught up. Great updates and pics.

Thank you Scott, I really do like that ride.

Peoplemover is somewhat under-appreciated by many, but certainly not on the DIS where it's universally loved. And rightly so.

Thanks. It sucked, but other things will more than make up for it.

Haha, well there's one of the things.

I spent a lot of time in MK this trip, but why not, it's my fav.

Thank you!

Haha, I was ok with it.

Hi Rob!

Hope you don't mind me joining in from over the pond - your report is making me chuckle a great deal - thanks I experienced my first Dis meet on my trip last summer - totally unexpected and smile-inducing. Looking forward to reading more.

Haha, that made me chuckle as well Claire.. Not only do I not mind, I'm positively delighted to have you join in, not too mention from the UK. I'll tell you, never in my wildest dreams did I expect to have such amazing DISmeets. They made my trip without a doubt. Thanks so much for being here.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Okay, time for a mega catchup after being gone!!!! READY......SET....GO!

What exactly was that pastry you ate back at POP that was covered in frosting? Looks interesting.....

You never saw the movie?! Wow. I actually never bypass the movie at One Man's Dream, because it's so good.

Yay, you met Katt. Awesome first DISmeet.

You got the cowboy! Awesome!!!!

Wow, a guy proposed on Tower of Terror?! I think my heart just exploded. That would rank as my favorite picture ever too.

Okay, duly noted. Rob does not like the Sofia meet and greet.

You are absolutely correct that Disney chicken nuggets are the best. They are typically a staple for me. Mmmmm...

Blankets and tape? For shame Disney.

I too love Big Al. He is just the best.

Oh no! I'm so sorry about missing Wishes! I'm shocked you couldn't fit anywhere! That just absolutely stinks.

Honestly, I am constantly surprised by how little some CM's know about Disney. I encountered it a few times on this past trip. I think I make the fatal error of thinking that they would have to love it as much as I do. Then I take pride in the fact that they are clearly the weirdos, and I'm the normal one.

OK, I'm ready.

That was actually none other than a regular Cinnamon Bun, nothing more. Other than being completely loaded with frosting that is.

Up until that point, nope. And I am terribily ashamed. I'm normally in a group that just isn't interested. But this was the perfect opportunity and I will NEVER miss it again. My God I loved it.

YAY Indeed!!! So Awesome!! AND, It was a perfect first meet too given the back story.

OMG I was happy about that!!! This is for sure something only DISers would appreciate.

Right??!! Like seriously how awesome is that??? I want to see that picture so bad!

Haha, scared me more than the dolls of Small World. There's evil there I tell you. EVIL!!

Honestly, they need to be their own food group.

This was one of the funniest things I ever saw. "OK, we need to cover up those windows". "Um, I saw some old blackets and duct tape in storage. Would that work?" "Of course it would work. Who could anybody possibly get past THAT??!!"

Seriously, pre-teen at a Bieber concert.

Aww thanks Dani. If I REALLY tried and was forceful, I probably could have snuck in somewhere, but the crowd was so tightly packed that I would have had to stand directly in front of someone. And I know how much I hate when that happens to me, especially at the last second. I just couldn't do it. But no worries, it'll all work out in the end.

Yeah, I think that's it exactly. For many, it's a job and considering Disney World is the largest single site employer in the US, it shouldn't be surprising that not all have the same love we do. And yet, it still surprises me. But yes, rest assured... THEY are the weirdos in this scenario.

I love your shirt! And such lovely pictures of MK in the morning. Looks like the sun was shining brightly for you!

How cool that you got to see those Frontierland Friends! I don't know that I've ever come across them like that.

I'm with you on IASW. I can appreciate it for what it is and how important it was to Disney history, but it personally doesn't do much for me. I normally don't ride it unless we're feeling rather bored. Plus, after reading Kingdom Keepers I'm always afraid the dolls are going to come to life and attack me...

Thank Becky!! It's easily my favorite of the homemade Disney shirts. Certainly the one that gets the most attention. I'll tell ya, the weather for the entire trip could not have been better.

This is I think the second time I've come across them, but both times it was when they were going back in. My timing sucks in that regard. Still cool to see them all in that environment though.

I wish I could handle Small World because of it's history, but I just can't. I'm sure if there was a small child in my group or something like that I would do it, but other than that, um, nyet. Ooh, Kingdom Keepers is something I've been wanting to read and I'm already terrified of those dolls.

Hi! I hopped over here from Cheekypoppins TR and am now all caught up. I realized too that we have crossed paths on a lot of different TRs.

Way too much to comment on but I am loving the TR so far. I will say that I am soooooo jealous that you got to see Big Al! I would love to meet him someday.

I'm going to try to keep up but considering I leave for the World in 5 days , I'll probably end up getting behind.

Hello right back Ariana. I am quite familiar with you via those many posts, particularly our friend Katt, and of course, Carrie.

Aww thank you so much and thank you so much for joining in. I loved seeing Big Al, and a quick little tip... you "may" see him out meeting at the Christmas Party.

OMG you're so lucky; have a blast!! I have no trip planned right now and it's awful. I guess I'll just have to renew my AP so I have no choice but to plan a trip.

Rob, I just love your TR
You are taking me right back to WDW on a cold evening in the UK with your wonderful photos

Aww gee Linda, THANK YOU!! I'm so delighted to hear that.