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

[DisneyKid4Life]

I'm getting more and more jealous of all your DIS meets! In and out of Disney.

We're slated to stay at the Polynesian for June 2015 with my in-laws once all that construction is finished or at least nearly finished. Looking forward to seeing the finished product.

And I wonder if anyone has tried to take a bite out of the gingerbread house in GF?

Haha, when it rains, it pours Dave. Get one out of the way, and the floodgates open.

Yeah, it'll be nice when it's done for sure. There's just been so much construction around the Lagoon lately, than it'll be nice to see that all done.

Hmm, I'm willing to bet yes.

Yes, "Pix or it didn't happen"

Oh man, I would love to just wake up in Disney and randomly add another party night.

NEVER TOOK THE BUS TO MK?!?!? I understand the perks of not taking the bus, but even when we used to rent a car when we went back in the day... ALWAYS bus to parks. Plus, bus BGM >>>

"Conversations with complete strangers just happen organically, almost as if it is a direct part of the Disney package."
This is so true. I'm no where near as shy as I was when I was little/middle school/high school/ and what the hell even college...but I still feel like a different person down there when I'm surrounded by others who love the place.

I would LOVE the see that tree in person

FDEJsfkerdnfkeasdjfcnekdjsf GFlo + Monorail pic

That is indeed the rule Meg!!!!

It was incredibly random too. I knew my "planned" party night would have compromises, so I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to get some stuff done.

Never. But in fairness, this was only my second time staying on Disney property. And MK has the best bus perk of bypassing the TTC despite also bypassing my beloved monorail. But for time savings, it's HUGE!!!

Exactly. I am actually a pretty shy person, but there I'm just not.

AHH so pretty!!!!!

I ALWAYS love taking that photo of the Monorail and the GFLO. It just looks... right.

Wow, what a great Dismeet you had with Wendy and her hubby! makes the time in between trips a little easier when things like that happen I bet, huh?

Your G Flo pictures are fabulous! I've actually never been inside and need to take care of that severe oversight ASAP! The gingerbread pictures just make the place seem all the more special. And wow, I just want it hug that man working outside.

As always, a wonderful update, Rob.

It was so very cool. When I found out they were coming to town, it was just necessary.

Aww thanks Tracy. Not bad for my first time. It just seemed required at Christmas. And that man, I SO wanted to talk with him, but he was occupied so I couldn't.

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

You know I think this was total awesomeness. So glad you got to meet Wendy & Johnny. I just missed them in Disney World by a few days and I was totally bummed. Sigh! I bet you guys had a great time visiting.

Well put! You know these are fighting words on some DIS threads.

He is ABSOLUTELY the cutest little old man! I bet he loves his job!

Beautiful picture!

Oh I so very much agree Mary Ellen. I did feel bad since they missed a lot of shopping time, but I enjoyed it so much. They are wonderful.

Hahaha, no doubt.

OH GOD he was precious. I so wish I could have met him. I bet he has amazing stories.

Aww thanks. It'd be hard to screw up that picture.

Your POP and AOA photos are gorgeous!

Touring the resorts at Christmas is so much fun because Disney does the decorations right! It was neat seeing the small differences in the decorations on the Gingerbread House as compared to when I was there in 2012. I really liked the little ornaments hung along with the lights.

I'm not sure who is cuter, the little guy at the GF or the little guy that works at Peter Pan.

Aww THANK YOU!!! I was just glad I made some time to take it all in for a bit.

They really do. I really like how the trees have the same sign and such in all the resorts (at least those I was in), but the trees themselves are so unique to each resort.

I just wish I had been able to talk with him. I'm sure his story is a keeper. I want to do that when I'm that age.

That was so nice of the CM and the cupcake looked good.
Nice pics of Fantasmic.
I think for a lot of CM’s it is a job and not like it used to be when they REALLY loved their job and doing it.
Nice you met the tow of them. They might make an appearance later in my tr too.
Love those lights on the sidewalk in Epcot.
You had a great evening.
Nice pics around POP in the morning. We were at All Star Sports at this time starting our resort tour. LOl
This was a day of firsts for you.
Nice tour and pics of GF.
I am all caught up again.

It really was Scott, and I really needed that. Plus, AWESOME cupcake.
Thank you. Love that show.
I think you're right. I find a lot of the College Program people have a bigger love of the parks.
It was awesome!!!! I loved every minute.
Ahh me too. I can't pass them by ever.
It was one of my favourites ever.
Haha, I loved how the lake looked that morning. Just breathtaking.
It was indeed!!! Amazing how that can happen after dozens of trips.
I was pretty in awe of the place I have to say.

 

[USAFdad]

Before too long though, the bus started to fill up, but certainly not to the point of sardine-land.
A family sat down next to me and the kids were super adorable… and very chatty.
They told me all about their love of the thrill rides, which I thought was awesome.

This really is one of the things I most love about the whole Disney World experience...
Conversations with complete strangers just happen organically, almost as if it is a direct part of the Disney package.
People are so willing to share information about themselves than they would at a trip to the mall.
They all really helped pass the time, and before long we arrived at the gates of Magic Kingdom.


I know it may be shocking to many (it certainly is to me), but I had never set foot in the GF ever before.
So, what better time to have my first look than when it is all decked out for Christmas?




CONTINUED NEXT POST

I love talking to strangers in Disney... sounds odd when I say it like that... Oh well. We met one family from Canada on the bus that was pretty cool.

I personally think the only time to go to the Grand Floridian is during Christmas but that's me I know other people disagree with that.

 

[natebenma]

Slowly getting caught up here!

Dec 5:

Day 3, Part 4

Has anyone mentioned that is an AWESOME TOT ride photo???

Wow, what a fantastic encounter with the CM from Rosie's!

Holy Crowds, Batman- I can see why you put off the lights for another night.


Day 3, Part 5

What a great chalk tribute to Walt's Birthday!

Loved everything about your meeting with Brenda and Emmy, but now I am getting concerned. Will they be asking me to keep repeating

"I Pahk my Cah in Hahvahd Yahd?"

when we meet in July?

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

I love talking to strangers in Disney... sounds odd when I say it like that... Oh well. We met one family from Canada on the bus that was pretty cool.

I personally think the only time to go to the Grand Floridian is during Christmas but that's me I know other people disagree with that.

Haha, I know what you mean Alex, but then a stranger's just a friend you haven't met And OF COURSE the Canadian family was cool.

Well as it currently stands, the only time I have been is during Christmas so I'm just going to agree with you. And I can't lie; I have no burning desire to return.

Slowly getting caught up here!

Dec 5:

Day 3, Part 4

Has anyone mentioned that is an AWESOME TOT ride photo???

Wow, what a fantastic encounter with the CM from Rosie's!

Holy Crowds, Batman- I can see why you put off the lights for another night.


Day 3, Part 5

What a great chalk tribute to Walt's Birthday!

Loved everything about your meeting with Brenda and Emmy, but now I am getting concerned. Will they be asking me to keep repeating

"I Pahk my Cah in Hahvahd Yahd?"

when we meet in July?

Aww that's very ok... you've been away...

Haha, why yes, a few may have mentioned it.

Awww Dee you have no idea. I was just so grateful.

Holy Moley it was nuts! Of course me and my genius brain went with the Fantasmic crowd, but what can you do. Well, you leave and come back another night.

No Words on this one Dee. That writing just totally floored me.

It was AWESOME beyond anything I could ever imagine. And YES I would expect a little accent questioning. Be prepared.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

CHARACTER MEETS AND HOLIDAY TREATS, THAT'S WHAT MVMCP IS MADE OF
Day 4 – December 6, 2013 Part 2



After exploring the Grand Floridian for the very first time, I arrived back at Magic Kingdom.
The park was closing at 7 pm for that night’s VERY SOLD OUT Very Merry Christmas Party, which I would now be attending.

While I do understand the sign’s intent, it still makes me laugh.
“Tonight’s party is sold out, but if you’d like to find out what you’ll be missing, stop by City Hall or call this number. We’ll be happy to rub it in.”

After entering Town Square, I took the opportunity to photograph some of the decorations which I’m sure requires no explanation.

Today was the first day of the Disney Parks Christmas Parade taping which mostly consisted of taping the performances on the castle stage.
The parade itself would be taped the following day.

After watching Lara Spencer read, and re-read, and re-read, and re-read from the teleprompter, I moved on.
I did enjoy watching the show on Christmas day and exclaiming excitedly when she said that line on the broadcast.
“I WAS RIGHT THERE WHEN SHE SAID THAT!!!!!... Only I saw her say it about 50 times.”

I had a lunch FP that was still a bit away, and ride FP’s even further away, so I decided to head into Adventureland for an old favorite.
I went through Liberty Square first and passed by the following store, which this time of year is known simply as “Ye Old Shoppe”,

Before arriving at the almost Christmas themed Pirates of the Caribbean.

You missed out Disney… So close… All you had to do was change the second “Y” to an “H” and BAM, Instant (and cheap) Christmas Overlay.

HIRE ME!!!!!!!!!!!

While my photos aren’t great, I’m still endlessly impressed with the low light ability of my little camera,
Which incidentally is a Canon Elph, so… Christmas themed!!!!

When I arrived outside, Jack apparently had snuck by me and was now doing his new career of stand up comedy.

“What’s the deal with planking?”

CONTINUED NEXT POST
​

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Day 4 – December 6, 2013 Part 2 Continued


After a visit with an animatronic Depp, and a human Depp, I was soon back in the Hub where there was some more filming going on.

I wonder if these folks work with road crews holding up the stop signs in the off Christmas season.

Finally I got to actually see some performing, as the current American Idol champ Candace Glover took the stage.
I stopped watching AI years ago, so I really didn’t know at the time who she was, but thankfully I overheard someone mention it.

She sang “O Holy Night” and it was truly stunning.
This happens to be my absolute favorite Christmas song, so this got top marks from me.
While I was watching and listening and swaying and signing along, I noticed a famous CM standing just a few feet away doing the same.

There was no chance I was passing up the opportunity to have a photo with the one and only, Dancing Barbara!!

My God she is just too fabulous and just cool as cool can be.

I still had about a half hour before lunch, so I headed into New Fantasyland to wait; On the way though, I passed the Stepsisters out meeting again.
The line was really long or I would have absolutely jumped in, but I was compelled to grab a few photos anyway.

Seriously, these so called “Ugly Stepsisters” were ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!!
Prince Charming really missed out here, and I would have made sure that glass slipper fit their feet one way or another.
Not only were they absolutely beautiful, but they’re funny as well… The total package.

Finally it was time to cash in my Lunch FP+ and finally dine at Be Our Guest for the first time.
I checked in by simply giving my name at the booth, and was sent on my way towards the castle, completely bypassing the long line waiting standby.

I placed my order and was sent on my way to find a table.

Normally they give you a rose to identify your location, but now with Magic Bands, they can find you with those.

All the rooms were open, but I decided to sit in the ballroom.
Being alone, I found a small table at the end of the room which gave me a GREAT view of the ballroom.

I posted on Facebook, simply:
”Nice Ambiance... “

The view from this spot was spectacular, and I found that over the course of my meal, many others coming back there to take photos.

In a short time, my food arrived at my table which I just find so amazingly cool, referring to it as some form of “witchcraft”.
They of course refer to it an “enchantment”.

Potato… Potahto…

Without getting into too much detail and since Dining Reviews are definitely not my forte, I’ll simply say that my food was fantastic.
I had the Carved Prime Chuck Roast Beef Sandwich, and I loved it; It really was a nice change from the normal QS options.

But obviously the real draw here is the atmosphere and it has that in abundance.
After I finished, I wandered around and took some photos of the ballroom ceiling,

The Rose Gallery, which would probably be my last choice of dining room locations,

Then finally, the West Wing.

I had heard about the thunder and lightning and the change the picture makes so I definitely wanted to see that.
I was just kind of milling about waiting when a little girl who was dining with her mother decided to tell me the whole story.
She explained how it all worked and also gave me a very useful tip.
When the effect happens and the picture does it’s quick change to Beast, about 5-10 seconds later, it does it again!
She was just too adorable and so very excited to share her vast knowledge.

I chatted with them for quite a while waiting for the momentous occasion, when finally it happened.
After the first Change, the little girl exclaimed, “OK it’s gonna change again in just a few seconds”.
She was more excited than I was; even though they had watched it happen I’m sure many times throughout their meal.

And she was absolutely correct, and thanks to her I was able to grab at least a reasonable capture of the moment.

I was a little off to the side talking to them, so it was far from perfect, but I was still pretty satisfied with the result.
I showed her the result of her expert coaching, and she was OVER THE MOON excited with what I had captured.
I can only imagine what it would have been like if I had actually gotten a really good photo.
After a high five to the little girl for her help, and a big thanks to both of them for entertaining me while I waited,
I exited Be Our Guest to head out for some more Magic Kingdom fun.

… But not before a photo of stained glass Belle and her Pants-Less Prince.

Seriously Disney, you really might want to re-think the color scheme you have going on there… There are children present.



TO BE CONTINUED…
​

 

[Jennifer84]

I absolutely LOVE the step-sisters! My son is really looking forward to meeting them on our upcoming trip (he thinks he's too cool to meet characters, but not them apparently). They do look beautiful in your photos!

I just can't get over how awesome BOG looks! We also have FPs for lunch, so I'm excited to finally see it in person. We will have to check out the picture, too. My kids would love that.

 

[Viva Las Disney]

Slowly catching up...

I was beyond moved by that young lady at Rosie's for her sheer enthusiasm for this day, which renewed my faith a little.
And finally, a great big HUGE THANK YOU to the CM’s of the UK Pavilion for restoring that faith completely…

For being the reason I had absolutely no choice but to stop…

… And for bringing a tear to my eyes AGAIN on this trip.

I stayed there for a bit and just... smiled.
Finally there was something public acknowledging this day and it was simply one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.

It's a bit surprising the parks don't make a bigger deal about Walt's birthday. Glad you ran into a few CM's to restore your faith. I'm a huge fan of Walt Disney and I'm ashamed to admit I completely forgot also, and I was at WDW on his birthday.

I walked the very short distance when I noticed a pair of lovely ladies sitting in front of the fountain…

…And when they moved out of the way, I saw Brenda and Emily.

That was hilarious, best laugh I've had in a while.

Amusingly, one of the first things out of BOTH of there mouths was “Do you have an accent?” “Do you say EH?”
They will swear to the contrary, but I don’t believe I have or do either.
That was followed by “Say… ABOUT”… “Say it again”… “Again!”

Yeah… This went on for a while.

I know this feeling well, I grew up in ND about an hour from the border, when I moved south everyone loved my "Canadian" accent and I must have said "bag" and "sorry" a thousand times because my friends thought it was so funny.

They are both such incredible people and sadly I don't think there are enough adjectives to truly explain them properly.

But I will add that dear old friends who bring presents are in fact the best kind.

The fact they were generous and thoughtful enough to bring Birthday presents to someone they were meeting for the first time in person says it all - good people!

One other thing that truly impressed me was Brenda’s addressing any and all CM’s directly by name.
They do wear those name tags for a reason, and I just adored that she took the time to add that extra personal touch.
It became less and less surprising why these two receive all the pixie dust they do.

And this confirms it - good people!

Makes me wish I was more thoughtful to others, I need to work on that.

Happy Birthday Walt, and THANK YOU for inspiring this wonderful place that allowed me to have such a wonderful and magical day.

Another great Rob installment, love your PTR's!

 

[katt789]

Ahaha never thought of the sign that way! Man, I’m still surprised we didn’t manage to see each other ONCE that night, but we were doing all the characters and didn’t care about the fireworks & stuff the second go around!

Wow when we walked past the stage there was NO crowd out and about, someone was singing, but I couldn’t tell you who.

YIIIIIAAAAASSSSSSSSSS BARBRAAAAAA!!! Only the BEST of all the cast members!!

That Anastisia is seriously gorg, like, so cute. Nerver seen that Drizella…lol. And of course, Lady T is just perfect, like, PERFECT.

Glad that you liked BOG, and wow that was the perfect table location, that’s for sure! Lol. Adorable story from the little girl, that’s super cute!

 

[ElenaJane]

Had me laughing out loud again!

I am so excited to try BOG on my next visit! I may blush walking by that stained glass Prince though. Goes against my delicate sensibilities!

And, you totally need to some how cash in on the "Yo Ho Ho Ho" idea!!!

 

[teekathepony]

Yikes to sold out parties! I don't deal well with crowds (it's why I live in the middle of the woods! I'm halfway to hermit!)

While I do understand the sign’s intent, it still makes me laugh.
“Tonight’s party is sold out, but if you’d like to find out what you’ll be missing, stop by City Hall or call this number. We’ll be happy to rub it in.”

Yeah that is somewhat cruel! Hahaha

Oh those Christmas decorations, so incredible!!
Despite the crowds, it would be awfully cool to get to see the parade and shows being taped.

(I rave about the little Canon Elphs! I'm sad that Canon is dropping their low-end point and shoot line, theirs are the best by a mile.)

Dancing Barbara!! I love her! I love that you got a picture with her, I'm quite jealous I must admit!
You're right, those are some really pretty "Ugly Stepsisters"... if that's considered ugly, then I have to go home and eat some chocolate and cry a lot.
From the view from your table at BOG, I'm thinking that we sat at the one small table closer to the door. Hard to tell though. We were no farther than the next table, if not the same one! Glad to read another good review of the good, there are so many sub-par food reviews of BOG. We loved ours!
The little girl telling you all about the West Wing sounds so cute, and you did get the Beast so she definitely knew what she was talking about!
Leave the pantsless prince alone, he's there for any single ladies or gentlemen to enjoy a little!!

 

[Credit Man]

Great updates! Pantless Prince...I will never be able to look at that the same way again!!!

 

[amazingact21]

I must be living under a rock, because I had no clue the picture in the West Wing changed. That's pretty cool. How sweet of that little girl to explain the timing to you. It's so fun to see little kids get excited over all things Disney.


A pants-less Beast?!?



The Christmas Party was sold out the night before, as well. (the 5th.) I guess everyone visiting the world really wanted to attend MVMCP. I'm very curious to hear how your experience with a sold out party went...

 

[Marsheliz]

Bog!! Omg!! I have to try it on my weekend trip in June!! Do you know If I'm just doing a weekend trip- if I'm eligible for fast passes and FP plus?
Since we are only doing MK- I think it would be smart to do so.

I've heard the pics don't even do BOG justice!!

 

[missangelalexis]

Love seeing all the Christmas decorations! And how cool that you got to see a part of the Christmas parade taping

YAY for lunch at BOG! You certainly got a great seating location! What a cute girl you encountered in the West Wing!

 

[Pluto0809]

I seriously need one of those Mickey head wreaths for my door at home! I wish they sold a version of them in the parks.

So cool that you got to see some of the taping of the parade! Although it sounds like it was a bit boring by your description.

Love all of your pictures from Pirates. I think I have the same exact picture of the dog with the keys. That's my favorite scene and I tend to photograph it endlessly.

I have yet to spot Barbara in the parks but I see her in a ton of TRs. Maybe I'm just not paying attention?

Don't you just love BOG! How far out did you get your lunch FP? I've been trying but as of right now it's telling me there are none available. I've eaten there three times now for dinner so I want to try lunch this time.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks the Prince looks half naked! I actually have a phone case that is very similar to that picture but luckily the princes pants are white.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

That's cool that you got to see some of the parade/special taping. Also love when one gets to see a bit of how those things are made. Though I am disappointed to see that it is written out for Lara Spencer to say that she finds Aulani to be "stunning" and isn't her actual opinion. I mean, I figured if it was on television you could trust it, right?

I am torn on if more of the rides should do overlays. Definitely don't want half-baked ones. I think the Jingle Cruise was a good idea, but picking a couple more rides would be cool - be in Pirates or Big Thunder Mountain or something (figure let DL have the Haunted Mansion one)

Yeah for the picture with Dancing Barbara! And fun story of your interaction with the little girl in BOG. Glad you finally got to see the place. Definitely a step up from the standard quick-service - both as far as food and decor

 

[deedee2177]

Yet another great update!! I LOL'ed when I read the pantless remark...to the point I spit my water out that I was drinking!!!

So, do you have any other Disney Trips planned? I know I'm so pushy...I just enjoy your TR's!! LOL

 

[courtneybelle]

MK's Christmas decorations are so stunning!

I always say I'd like to see the taping, but I'm not sure I'd have the patience to watch it over...and over...and over...with the exception of the NPH opening number, which I did watch repeatedly at home.

Oh man, missed opportunities at Pirates!! You're too much.

Geez, the stepsisters do look great in the photos you got!

BE OUR GUEST <3 I'm glad you picked the ballroom. The West Wing is amazing for sure, but the ballroom is just so iconic to me that I always sit there.

That little girl sounds absolutely precious!