Estrogen Overload - The ladies hit WDW 6/17 - 6/23 *updated 7/13 with PICS*

[catherines_mama]

Okay, a little background to start this off with…

Our little group

Primary – stayed at POFQ
Me (29) single mom to DD below. I’m a project manager and Disney addict. I went to WDW tons as a kid since I grew up in Polk County, FL.
DD (5) is my little sweetie. This will be her 4th Disney visit.
Andi (32) my bestfriend who lives in Bradenton. I’m slowly working on turning her into an addict also.

Additional crew – stayed at Orange Lake Country Club (timeshare)
Connie – Andi’s Mom and timeshare owner
Faith (11) – Andi’s neice & Connie’s granddaughter (through Andi’s younger brother)
Ashton (5) – Faith’s lil’ sis
Corie – Faith & Ashton’s Mom
Carrie – Corie’s bestfriend
Lindsey (6) – Carrie’s sweet little girl

See, we aren’t really a “little” group .

So anyway… DD and I did a big week at Disney in Feb 04. We’ve done a few weekend trips with Andi while we were there on vacation, but I was not planning another big week for some time. After this past Christmas we did our annual trip to FLA to see my grandparents and Aunt Andi & Uncle Chris. We decided to go over to WDW for a couple days. While there Andi told me that her mom & fam were coming down in June and “what a great idea, I should go to!”. GREAT idea! You should have seen how much arm twisting I needed to get in line and upgrade to Annual Passes. So I got home and made the ressies. Now, Connie had a Timeshare we COULD have stayed at, but I’m a self-admitted Property snob. I just LOVE the benefits of staying onsite, AND I like my own space (and bed) while on vacation. Timeshare would have meant the couch for me and floor for DD, no thank you.

So, tickets – CHECK. Ressie at POFQ – CHECK! ADRs – CHECK! Plans made – CHECK! And guess what? This is the week of my BIRTHDAY! YAY! …turning 29… woohoo! Why POFQ? Well we’ve stayed at POP and ASMo, I really wanted to try something different. It would be summer and HOT so a nice pool was a MUST.

1 month away from the trip, tragedy struck. On May 19th my dad was in a serious car accident. For 2 wks he remained in a coma. Thankfully he DID wake up, and began to make some great progress. To actually take this trip, was a really tough decision, but knowing dad, I knew he’d really be mad at me for not taking us on this trip. The day before we left for this trip, he moved out of the hospital, into the rehab center. I knew he’d be okay, and felt much better leaving for vacation. The one thing that DID change during this time, little things weren’t as important anymore, I honestly did not look at my schedule ONCE (except ADRs)! The crazy planning freak that I am, really didn’t care any longer (and it was pretty much committed to memory LOL)– and you know what, we still had a GREAT trip.

(( Just for an update, Dad is doing GREAT! I spent Monday with him at rehab and he’s making tremendous progress! Release date is now July 25 – YAY ))

Okay – so night before we leave, I review the schedules. The additional crew was only there for 3 days so I had a different schedule for them. Friday night, we all go out to eat. They tell me they want to change their schedule, GREAT! Go home, take the dog to the sitters, drive to my moms to sleep (its 1 hr closer to FL) and then stay up til 1am reworking the schedule. My mom asked me why I’m so worried about it. I really don’t know. I just NEED to plan it. I don’t have to follow the plan, I just need one. I totally am my mothers’ daughter. I didn’t need to sleep. But it was all done J YAY! Get up at 4:30am, the coffee pot wakes Mom up at 5am so we sit and chat for awhile (I’m really gonna miss her and Dad this week), and leave by 6am! YAY!!!!

** Keep checking in.. Next is arrival at WDW, my POFQ rave, an interesting boat ride and evidence that I’m an old lady **

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 1 – Saturday May 17

Welcome back! I’m SO glad you are reading this, really I am! I love reading reports and really don’t think I’m very good, but I do my best! Okay... on to the story. Wait, 1st, just to let you know, I’m trying the whole picture thing, so bear with me!

Okay, so its 6am *yawn* and I’m driving. The drive went really well. DD slept for awhile, and when she was awake, she was really laid back. Okay men, ya’ll will LOVE this! 8 HRS FLAT BABY! Woohoo! This was my personal BEST! , I pretended to adjust myself, spit and went on my way to check in! DD and I were bouncing we were so excited!

We got into line (not really a line, just us) to check in! I could NOT stop smiling! We got a CM ‘earning his ears’, but he was great. I always throw CMs with my spending line. I am anti-credit card, so put cash down for my spending line. It tripped up this CM, but he got help with it, and in the end, he learned something new Then over to Guest Services to have him look up my ADR numbers (I TOTALLY forgot to write them down). He was wonderful, and helped me really quickly. About that time, Andi got there, so we found our room together and got things upstairs. Our room – 1347 was wonderful! It had a view of the courtyard with a fountain. We had several towel animals waiting for us! It was really nice!! Okay 1 negative, this was the furthest (okay, 2nd to furthest) room from the elevator. It really did not bother me, but it was a pain some nights.

POFQ is just beautiful. You really feel like you are in New Orleans. You aren’t being choked with DISNEY, but you know you are there b/c you aren’t in reality, that’s for sure. Everything is close and although we were in the furthest building we were close to everything!

So we unpacked – yes, I am an unpacker! I have to unpack – I’m a dork – I know! After unpacking we headed to the pool. We walked to the pool via the river walkway, it was SO pretty. The pool was a lot of fun, and DD loved the slide, and had a good time at the pool. I did get the “bad mommy”. She swims well, but hasn’t in MONTHS thanks to winter (stupid season). So she was a bit clingy. We DID get her to do the slide, which she loved. Well after several trips down the slide (with me meeting her at the bottom) she went up and after several minutes and seeing the same kid twice, I was worried she was up there scared. So I told Andi to watch for her while I went to check on her. JUST as I was getting out of the pool, down she came. Andi didn’t have time to get to the bottom of the slide until AFTER she hit the water. Well, she freaked out that I wasn’t there and cried. She was never in danger, and Andi got her just as she was coming up.. but I was the ‘bad mommy’ for the day After about 30 minutes of swimming, we got ready to head back. DD fell in LOVE with the shower by the pool. She’s not a shower kid, so having a cool shower made it really fun. I should have brought soap and shampoo! LOL We then headed back upstairs to change and head to DTD. At this point, DD gets her 1st surprise of the trip… PAL MICKEY! And I bought myself one too! I wanted in on all the fun! LOL I had bought them previous and had them in my suitcase. She was really excited!

We head to the boat dock, and luckily one was about to pull away, so they held it for us. We sat right behind the captain.

DD was a little weary of the boat thing, but WAS enjoying the ride. A bit of wind came up and blew the captains clipboard off its peg. Hope you see where this is going… the clipboard, hit DD L Luckily the flat side hit her, and not a corner or the clip, but yeah, she was pretty wigged out. He was wonderful about it, stopped the boat to make sure she was okay – which she was, and took a few minutes with her when we docked. He gave her a co-captain button. Can we just say, she didn’t want to take the boat ever again! LOL

We got to DTD, small bruise but A–OK, and stop at RFC to put our name in. 90 minutes – we put Andi’s name in and check the bar. There was 1 seat open, so Andi held it while DD and I went potty. Andi got attitude from someone else trying to get bar seats, and DD wasn’t a fan of the storm, so we decided to leave. Starving and bruised we headed over to Earl of Sandwich. On the way DD wanted to watch the performer, he was cool, but we were hungry. Off to Earl of Sandwich and I really enjoyed it. I got the Caesar salad – YUMMY, and DD got the grilled cheese – not yummy. Andi got some Beef Blue (?) and gave it a ‘so so’.

After dinner we head to the toy store. DD had some money to spend, and was ready to spend it. I warned her not to spend it the 1st night, but who listens to their mother? So she bought a cute little Ariel jewelry box. Then off to World of Disney where I got her an autograph book and a Minnie t-shirt. Andi bought DD some Minnie ears and off we went. We really wanted some ice cream but the line at Girradelli’s was WAY too long. (btw – I KNOW I spelt that wrong, oh well). Instead we got a small cone for DD from McDonalds and went to the stage area. They were doing a really cute kids program. It was a dance contest and we got there just in time for the boys competition. Can I tell you these little boys were hysterical! Some of those kids, WOW, it was great! We then watched a hola hoop contest then headed out.

Okay, we really wanted to take the boat back, but DD was very hesitant – hmm, wonder why? LOL we promised her we’d sit in the back. We were 1st on the boat so luckily we got the back row (aka the no flying clipboard row). DD found a friend in front of us, and they listened to Mickey tell jokes all the way back. Has anyone sat in this back row? Anyone? The seat vibrates – honest! It was hysterical! DD had to potty so she stood up most of the time. Heehee Back at POFQ, we headed upstairs. This is where I become an old lady. At 10pm, we were asleep.. zzzz – good night

** UP Next: Epcot EE, Storybook breakfast and a tour around the world **

 

[Minniespal]

Enjoying reading ~ Looking forward to more.

 

[TLinden16]

What a wonderful first evening at the world! I love going to Downtown Disney, and the Earl of Sandwich. That clipboard thing was freakish. Glad your dad is on the mend.

Thanks for posting!

 

[Disney owl]

Thanks for sharing

 

[averill94]

Thanks for posting, what a great start!

 

[tkd lisa]

I'm enjoying your report. Looking forward to more please!

 

[pumba]

thanks so much for your report.......Sorry about dd getting the clip board. I am glad that she gave it another shot though......Kids bounce back better then us adults...
earl of sandwich is our all time favorite fast food place....YUMMY.....cna hardly wait for another go at it

 

[AshClan]

Great start, DeeDee! Can't wait to hear the rest.

And, if you are a dork, then I am too. I HAVE to unpack on vacation. Always the first thing I do. Can't enjoy myself until I feel "settled". And I LOVE the Earl of Sandwich. I'm really looking forward to getting back there! (Well, actually, I really looking forward to getting back to WDW in general, but, that's near the top of the "specifics" list.....)

 

[missj1975]

Great report so far. Can't wait for the rest

 

[arizonacolbys]

Great report so far - glad to hear DD is OK after the clipboard incident! LOL Can't wait to hear more!

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 2: Sunday May 18 Epcot EE
Okay, so where did we leave off.. Going to bed early on a Saturday night!

Stitch called at 6:30am to wake us up. ( Side comment: When will Stitch be gone from the wake up call? I seriously do not want Stitch to wake me up I want MICKEY to wake me up! BLAH )

Up at 6:30, breakfast bar for the kid, Diet Dr. Peppers for the ladies and off we go. This is the 1st time we tried to go strollerless (check in on how that went). Off to the bus at 7:30 to be at Epcot for EE (8am).
Here is sleepy girl waiting for the bus

So we get to Epcot before the turnstiles were open, after bag check we got into line. The line moved SO slow once the turnstile opened. This is a trend for us, we were bad line pickers this week. I totally forgot the DIS line rule.
With the rest of the sea we headed to the right towards Soarin'. I had prepped DD, showed her video and she was ready! Next to Character Connection we took a shortcut through some planters and off to Soarin we were! The line took maybe 5 - 10 minutes. We were in the 2nd row. Well DD was no longer a fan of this ride. Andi and I LOVED it, but DD sat with her head buried under my arm. Granted, she often peeked out, but she did cry most of the time (bad mommy, I know). Once off, she said "Never again" and recovered pretty good. By 8:30 we were walking to Test Track. Another ride DD had watched and was really excited about. While in line, nope, she decided that she no longer trusted me. Andi had ridden it before so they went out the chicken exit and I got to enjoy TT for the 1st time. WOW! It was FUN!!!
I met up with the girls outside and it was just a little after 9am so we headed to character connection. This place is AWESOME! At this hr there were no lines and we had some great interaction.
Here is Minnie & Minnie

Chip and Dale were great! Chip took Catherine's Minnie ears and put them around his ear. Since it was slow, we had a lot of fun with them.
We thought we were done and were heading out. THEN we found Gipetto, Gideon, Goofy & MAX. What fun! These guys were all fun since there were no lines.
Okay, right now its like 9:40 and we have to get to Norway by 10am. SO we high tailed it over there and got there really quickly. Just after 10am we were called in. Now, this was a first for us! We'd done the Crystal Palace breakfast, and although we enjoy it and do it again this year, it does give you a rushed feeling. This breakfast is GREAT! The family style gives you a very relaxed feeling. You get to eat slowly while the princesses make rounds, and they come by after you'd had time to complete your meal. It was really nice and VERY fun! We all gave it 2 thumbs up.
Here is Catherine with Snow White, she LOVES Snow White & had a dress in the room but didn't want to wear it, so OKAY (we're on vacation, I wasnt fighting her)

After a wonderful breakfast we got out just before 11am and were at WS for rope drop (the 1st ones through actually!).
We enjoyed the countries as they were so empty and we just mandered the paths and peaked around all the corners. By Morocco DD's feet were hurting and I was cursing leaving the stroller in the room. Here she is taking her "break"

come UK we came upon a very fun street group so sat and enjoyed that for some time. They were cheesy, but really funny!
It was just after 12:30, so home we headed. Back at POFQ we went for a swim and grabbed a small snack from the food court. A late breakfast is a great idea b/c you really stay full for some time!
We had a good long nap! (we're old ladies remember) we got up and got ready for MK. YAY! Once at MK we headed Left into Adventure Land & Frontireland! We grabbed Jungle Cruise FPs (only like 30 min from then) and rode Aladdin's Carpet several times.

then enjoyed the Jungle Cruise. DD was kind of tired and was not open to the joy of Jungle Cruise. She sniffled through most of it. I asked her, "honey what is it" She said "I know they are fake, but I'm scared". She's a total Dork and again, I'm a bad mommy.
We then headed to Thunder Mtn. yet another one DD had watched several times and could not WAIT to ride. Of course, she sits and says "I don't wanna". So we had a chat (read as bribery occured) and she got on it, and guess what folks. SHE LOVED IT!!!! We grabbed a FP to ride again then headed to Goofy's Barnstormer (via the train) We then hopped back on the train to ride Thunder Mtn. Wait was 20 min, so we waited in that line rode it once, then rode it again with the FP. DD sure loved this ride! Maybe she'll believe me from now on (or not)! LOL
After our last ride on BTMRR we went over and found a great spot for Spectro, right in front of the Town Hall. Andi and I took turns running down to the Riverboat Landing to get our EMH wristbands. I was because I had to bring Catherine with me, I really could have traveled faster w/out her (and her flipflops). Oh well! We were excited about the night ahead!
DD ready for Spectro!

We loved Spectro - AS ALWAYS! It is a great show and was lots of fun. After Spectro we booked it over to the Tomorrowland bridge to watch Wishes! This was our 1st time viewing it from off Main St and it is a GREAT view. Tink was RIGHT over our heads, wow DD loved that! This show always makes me cry, LOVE IT so much. And this time I sat with my DD wrapped around my back. She sat in her stroller and I sat in front of her with her leaning on me, so sweet!
Wishes was over! Thanks Blue Fairy!
As the park thined out we took a potty break in Tomorrowland. ICK moment: the woman in the stall next to me, removed her flip flops and was in the bathroom barefoot - yuck! We scoped out the current Space Mtn line and weren't fond of it, so headed to Fantasyland. We stopped in and enjoyed PhillarMagic, always a favorite! We then went and enjoyed Small World for the 1st time in YRS! Oh it was wonderful! I love the changes, it is so beautiful! I love all the updates they'd made. After IASW, we split up. DD and I go enjoy Indy Raceway
as Andrea goes on Space Mtn. Again, DD and I pick the wrong line for the Raceway. We waited much too long for our car. Oh well, we had a great time! Andi was waiting for us at the exit, so they headed off to the Teacups (evil laugh, as I hate the teacups) while I went to ride Space Mtn. Space Mtn was great as always, until the last turn! Yup! It broke down. Lights came on - FUN STUFF. I sat and looked around to follow the track and figure out where we came from. Interesting stuff! So this guy came and pushed us into the unloading area. We were told that we'd be met by someone who would tell us what to do (get back in line, FP whatever) Well nobody was seen along the path out. So I talked to the girl manning the line outside and she said that I should have been talked to already - no- but did I want to wait? It was not 12:30am and no, not really. So she gave me a group FP to use later in the week. I met up with DD and Andi and we decided it was time to go to bed. The lines for the bus was not bad, and we realized that WOW this trip to POFQ from MK is short! DD of course slept all the way back and crawled into bed as soon as we got home. Andi and I chatted a bit about the next day, and went to bed ourselves (around 1:30am).

It was a really great 1st FULL DAY at MK. No, we never ate a real dinner, but had popcorn and soda during the parade LOL Hey, we're on vacation!

* Next up: Day 2 - Animal Kingdom, MGM, and Animal Kingdom EMH*

 

[daisy_77]

I am loving your trip report! Your daughter is so cute!! She is a fraidy cat like me...lol!

I look forward to reading more! Thanks for sharing!

 

[Tanya90210]

great trip report... can't wait to read more

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 3 - Monday May 19 AK

HI! Okay so back from the 4th Holiday (hope you all enjoyed it)! And time to start back up on this report. Quick update: Dad is doing great! His discharge date is 7/18 - YAY!

Okay so back to WDW my "happy place". Last we checked in we ended a EMH night at MK. Monday it was up and out at 8am. We wanted to be at AK for 9am opening. Andrea had to go pick her mom up from the airport, so we said "see ya later" and headed our own ways. The rest of the crew arrived Sunday night, but were sleeping in today.

This was our 1st experience having to stop at all the stops at POR, AND we had to stop at Blizzard Beach, not fun, but oh well. We get to AK and after running to the potty, get in line for the turnstiles. As the rest of the park was heading right to EE, we turned left for Safari. (DD isn't ready for EE yet). There were no characters out on our way to the safari (you know.. Stitch and Flick are usually on that walk) so we went straight there, there was a posted 20 minute wait (longest we'd ever waited for Safari 1st thing in the morning). It was odd for me because you push the stroller through the queue. Okay 1st off, it was more like 40 minutes and 2nd it was H-O-T HOT!

We loved the Safari as always and there were some great shots of the animals. The Giraffe was RIGHT next to the path, it was awesome! After the safari we made our way to Asia. Here I grabbed some FPs for Kali, this would be a first for us, but I wanted to wait until I got wet! DD and I then walked by EE to check it out, the detail is SO amazing. Then off to DinoLand for some time in the Boneyard.

She loves this place and it gave me a minute to call Andi to see what her status was. They were coming over to AK sometime soon - cool. After Boneyard DD and I headed to lunch, our usual spot - Pizzafari. On the way we stopped to visit with Pooh & Friends on the landing. We had some great interaction and an enjoyable time down there.

At Pizzafari, we did the usual, and as always it was really good! By now it was around 11:45 and super HOT. So we decided to head to Kali, get wet, & cool down. We had packed our flipflops in the stroller so we change shoes and head downt the path. DD was a bit timid but as we got closer she got more excited. We got into our raft and had some Kali experts with us. I was asking them where the drop was etc, and they would not tell us So far DD was loving it! We get to the drop and start spinning, I said , keep spinning keep spinning, so YAY we were not facing backwards, then... it turned again! Yup! We went down in the wet spot, and DD LOVED IT!!! She threw her hands up and said "Awesome"! It was a winner!!

At this point I called Andi and they were on their way. So DD and I made our way out of AK and found a bench to rest. We air dried and played Eye-Spy unil the rest of the crew arrived. When they got there we did a quick "hi-bye" "call ya later" and headed out. DD and I needed a rest. The plan WAS for 50s ADR and Fantasmic. DD and I head back to POFQ and after a quick dip in the pool, curl up for a nap. zzzz

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 3 part 2: MGM / AK

So we left off with half the crew in AK and us (DD and I) swimming and napping back at POFQ. DD and I wake up from our nap around 4:00 and head out to MGM. Since we'd be park hopping and going to AK we figured to drive. At MGM we were close enough to walk up to the entrance. We had 7:00 ADRs at 50s Primetime, with a plan to stay on for Fantasmic. With the rest of the crew at AK and it being AKs EMH, I was torn in what to do. I thought that I would rather ride EE then see Fantasmic again. DD and I went straight to 50s Primetime in hopes we could get a walk-in seating. The wait was about 20 minutes so we watched the parade from across the lake. We got seated in a side room with 4 tables and had a great 'sister' waiting on us. DD loved the rules (she's such a rule freak). We ordered Fried Chicken with Grn Beans (instead of summer greens) to share and a choc. milk shake. DD LOVED the Grn Beans and ate them all, mine and hers, while I ate the mashed potatoes.

We both loved the chicken. Since we were "good" and MOM was proud of us, we got to order dessert. DD was told to share the dessert menu so as soon as she looked at it, she walked it over to the next table LOL - did I say she loves rules! The Smores were AMAZING! and SO yummy.
DD and her "I'm SOO FULL" expression - what a cheese ball

After a wonderful dinner we went shopping a bit then decided to head to AK. We got to AK around 7:00 and met Andi and Faith (her neice who was staying with us at POFQ) at ITTBAB so we could pick up EMH bands. Since the rest of the crew was hot and tired they went back to the hotel to relax. DD decided to go with them, since we were just going to be doing grownup rides. BYE HONEY!

1st stop - EE! We got FPs then waited in line. Wait was posted 60 min but it did not even take 15! Queue is great and the display cases are just really cool. We get up to loading and get assigned our rows - Andi and Faith , with me right behind them YAY! Then.... empty cars come and go There was rain and lightning in the area so they shut down for awhile. We sat down and just chatted for awhile. About 20 minutes later - YAY! Its open again! We get up and head on for our 1st ride on EE EVER! (okay, andi being a FL Resident and AP holder - rode it during preview week, but it was my 1st AND Faiths 1st coaster period).

EE was GREAT!! OMG! Job well done Disney, this was great great great!

So off and back on! WOOHOO! Another 15 min wait, and we were on again! Too much fun! Lets just look back to my dinner.. milk shake, smore... needless to say - I was feeling SICK after 2 rides on EE. So we take a break and head over to enjoy Dinosauer. While in line for Dino I realized I needed to sit down and have a glass of water. EE ontop of all that food wasn't good. So I sit out of Dino while the girls enjoy it. After Dino the ladies were hungry so we headed over to Flame Tree while they ate, I sat and continued to regain my stomach. Mealtime over and we head back to EE. I realize I cannot do it, so sit and wait for them by the bridge. I notice there are no trains going up or coming out of EE. Humm? Interesting. 10 minutes later the girls come back shrugging, Oh well! Yes, EE was broken. They actually had to walk passengers down the mtn. They told us we could use the FPs the next day, so we decided to head home.

While walking back to the entrance Andi called the crew to let them know we were enroute and I had her check on DD. When she asked how things were with my DD, she was silent for a few mintues. My MOMMY-DAR went off, something was wrong! Andi finally gets off the phone and says "I don't want to tell you". Whatever woman.. TELL! Well, not good. DD had been running down the hallway at POFQ and when Corie told her to stop, she did, and turned around quickly. At that point, she tripped over her own feet and face planted Her lip was split and her gums were bleeding MY BABY!!!! Needless to say, when we got into the car, I drove pretty fast back to POFQ. The crew met us in the parking lot and I scooped up my darling. Her gum was purple by now and her lip was so big. Poor baby! That's what she gets for running when she should not!

So, we head out to lead the crew from POFQ to their timeshare as they were afraid they'd get lost. That done, we stopped at Walgreens. I wanted to get DD some Motrin and Andi wanted to get a spray fan for Connie (her mom). Then Faith, DD, Andi and I head back to POFQ and head to bed. Good night! Poor DD.

** Up Next : Day 4 - AK again and MK **

 

[averill94]

Oh no your poor daughter!!! I hope she was ok.
SHe is a doll- quite the hambone in the pics

Thank you for the flip flop tip for Kali. Sorry to say I never thought of it!

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 4 : Tuesday May 20 - AK & MK AND a special celebration

so YAY! We wake up early (I don't remember what time) to the alarm. Yeah, no Mickey, no wake up call. I'd rather wake up to the alarm then Stitch (yuck).

DDs little lip was still so swollen but her gum was much better. Her teeth (the front 2 on top) WERE (and still are) loose, one more then the other. Sniff sniff, my baby is gonna lose a tooth soon!

All girls are up and dressed, we all grab a granola bar and head out the door. Andi, Faith, Cat and I head over to AK (by car) and get what we like to call rock-star parking (front row). We're at the turnstiles when they open. The rest of the crew was just behind us and arrived maybe 5 minutes later. In the gate and we all go left (Safari). The rest of the gang didn't do much the previous day because it was so busy and so hot. This time we get to see Stitch on the way! So 1st thing, we get the safari and it is a true 20 minute wait. This time I left the stroller out by Tusker House so I wouldn't have to push it through the queue. We had a great time on the safari.

We leave there and head through Asia to ... EE. On the path we got to see DeVine! This was really cool, especially for the rest of the crew who hasn't before. I love DeVine, but just want to know why she has to look so stuck up? Yeah, you ARE cool, but no need to look it. Ya know! Anyway.. So half the gang caught a bench while the rest of us headed to EE (we had our FPs from the night before). EE without all that food on your stomach, MUCH BETTER! We had lots of fun. That was all we wanted to do at AK, so out we went. It wasn't late at all, so we hoped in the car and headed to MK. Once in MK we were hot and wanted to cool down. SO the little girls enjoyed the splash ftns in ToonTown.

At this point, I was ready for lunch and DD was hot and tired. We left the rest of the crew in MK for their 1st real day in MK while we went back to POFQ to nap and shower - we had big plans at 5:20. Around 3:30 Andi, Faith and Connie showed up. Faith and Andi did a quick swim while I got ready. At 4:30 we left to head back to TTC and walked to the Poly! We had a 5:20 ADR at Kona IT was my BIRTHDAY dinner!

I had the Mahi, DD had the Grl Cheese (shocker) Connie had the PrimeRib, can't recall what Andi had, but Faith had a burger. The rest of the crew was supposed to join us but were too hot and tired and went home to rest. After dinner we did some shopping at Poly and Connie turned my DD into a Pin Fanatic <great> LOL

Pin clad and ready to go, we hopped the monorail to MK. At 7pm we were meeting up with the rest of the crew and .. there they were We went in and headed left to hit Thunder Mtn Andi and I were the only big kids who wanted to go on Thunder, and all the girls wanted to go. Corie and Carrie decided to go to Hall of Presidents while we took the girls on Thunder Mtn (we talked Connie into going too). We each took a kid and DD rode with Faith. Carrie's DD (Lindsey) wasn't a fan, so I just held her tight the entire time. Everyone else loved it, Connie could have done without. SO after that trip everyone wanted to go again. Connie happily sat out with Lindsey while the rest of us went on it again. FUN! (as always). Then we headed to Liberty Square to meet Corie and Carrie for SpectroMagic. They really enjoyed their kid-free time! We sat right there at Hall of Presidents and just relaxed while waiting for Spectro.
DD and I waiting for Spectro to start. See her new pins and Lanyard! Also, see her beautiful lip

Has anyone realized the attidude of parade watchers changes as you get to different locations. We've watched from Main St. 1 time and everyone there were so tense and regimented. I was fussed at about the stroller and stepped on several times. Since then I've always watched from Liberty Square or Frontierland, and since then its been so much more laid back, not sure why, but people just really are more chilled out out west (as in west side of MK). Okay.. side comment over, just an observation.

After Spectro (LOVED IT - as always). We went to our new favorite spot for Wishes. (tomorrowland bridge) Andi and I got thumbs up from the crew for placement and if you are keeping track, this is Wishes viewing #2 of the trip What can I say, I LOVE this show!

After WISHES we decided to split up. Andi, Faith and I wanted to use my Space FP (from when it broke down on me at EMH), so we headed that way, and the rest of the crew headed to Small World. SPACE was great and the newbie to coasters (Faith) loved it!

We went to meet the rest of the crew in "our spot" outside City Hall. and realized we were about to be roped out of our meeting spot by the 2nd Spectro! YIKES! So we got there in time, but were worried about the rest of the crew. Finally we see them hurrying our way and jump up down!

We all hurd towards the boat to get back to TTC. At this point I got a bit upset. We're in an insane crowd for the boat to TTC and in this huge line, is a woman smoking! Are you kidding! I coughed SO loud and said "honey I'm sorry someone is rude enough to smoke here.. we'll be out soon" as if I was talking to DD. Seriously, how RUDE! So we cattle hurd into the boat and move all the way forward (like they tell you too) and nobody ever cares to get out of the way for a stroller w/ a sleeping kid in it. We totally lost our entire crew. As soon as we hit the dock we unloaded and pulled over to the right to meet up with the rest of the crew. Finally off that boat we slowly made our way up the ramp. We were not rushing to go wait in line again.

We were in Dopey parking lot and the attendants told us we were better off walking, so tired as could be we trudged to Dopey and finally made it to the car

We loaded up in our car and headed to POFQ, while the other crew headed to their timeshare.

At home we decided to take the girls (DD and Faith) swimming. Yeah, it was 12:10, the pool closed at 12am but there were a lot of older kids (early - mid teens) there being much louder then we were with our girls. The girls swam and played for about 30 minutes before we headed upstairs to hit the sack.

** Next up : The LONGEST DAY OF THE YEAR - really June 21st is the longest day of sunlight on the day AND... MY BIRTHDAY!!!!
MK & the best birthday gift EVER **

 

[catherines_mama]

Day 5 : June 21st - MY BIRTHDAY another MK day

Yeah, we love MK. So although its MY BIRTHDAY we got up early and were at MK for opening. Andi and Faith went to EMH at MGM to hit RnR and TOT, then were planning to meet us at MK. The rest of the clan was planning to be at MK for opening, but were running a little late.

SO DD and I are in line to go in early, but missed the opening ceremonies. After a stop at City Hall for my button and a BIRTHDAY wish from Goofy, we went straight for Fantasy Land and immediately got in line for Dumbo. The rest of the crew called me while we are on Dumbo and they were on their way in the gates. We'd meet them eventually, DD and I were enjoying doing our own thing. While we're on Dumbo I notice the Gratto opening. After Dumbo we ran to see Arial. We waited while she took a 'break' then were the 2nd Family to go in and see her. DD LOVES Arial, she's by far her favorite. Arial wished me a HAPPY BIRTHDAY (that was the 4th one today- YAY). After Ariel we book it over to Toon Town and get there at about 10:10, so it had not been open long. We check with the crew and they were in the park and doing Fantasy Land. DD and I get in line for the princesses (hoping to see Cindy) and were in within minutes. Although it was great, we saw the 3 we'd seen before (Belle, Sleeping Beauty and Snow White). While waiting to see Snow White, I dropped my camera and .. IT broke

After the Princesses we rode Goofy's Barnstormer. I got my 7th and 8th "Happy Birthdays" there And after 1 ride and no line we ran back and got the FRONT ROW, DD loves the front on Goofy's. After Goofy's we walked to Dumbo to meet the crew. Half were in line the others were just relaxing at some tables. Disney had done them in it seems. At that moment, Andi called me and they had just gotten to MK. They were headed for Splash. Nobody else wanted to SPLASH so DD and I booked over to meet them there. No, DD wouldn't do Splash, so Faith and Andi grabbed FPs and we rode Thunder 2x. After 2x on Thunder we went to Peco Bills for lunch.

After lunch it was time for their FPs so DD and I took a spot on the 2nd bridge and waited for them to come down. The crew called me then and they were going to country bears so we said we'd meet them outside there after Splash (Faith was missing her mom *sweet* ). We got to see Andi and Faith come down Splash, and they got soaked! HAHA!

The drowned rats met up with us and we headed to Country Bears. We then learned that country bears was down, they had a grumpy bear who needed a time-out. The crew was in the pioneer shop right there so we all sat and planned for awhile. I was ready for a much needed break. This longest day of the year was HOT! The ladies wanted to shop, SOO Andi and I decided to take ALL the little girls with us and go to the pool. The ladies planned to meet us at DTD later.

We took all the girls back to POFQ and luckily they all fit in DDs swimsuits. We went to the pool for a good hour and had tons of fun. After the pool we went upstairs to get dry and dressed, then headed to the boatdock to go get icecream and meet the moms. The boat was not running b/c it had rained a little earlier, so we packed the girls up in the car and went to DTD. While in line at Ghirraldis (I can and will never spell that right) the other ladies showed up. We got 2 tables and really enjoyed our icecream - YUM!

We split up to do some shopping. We headed to Paws & Tails b/c I needed to get my dogsitter something. While shopping I got THE BEST birthday gift EVER.

Now a quick recall: On May 19 (i mos before my trip) my dad was in a car accident and spent 2 wks in a coma. Although he was in rehab now he's still been very out of it and was yet to speak.

While shopping my phone rang, Caller ID said "Mom" and the voice on the other end was MY DAD. He said "Happy Birthday Kiddo" I broke in to tears right there! It was SO WONDERFUL to hear his voice. I gave DD the phone to tell her Grandpa she loved him and she started to cry too. We bought our purchases and went to sit by the lake. I was fine after a moment but DD just could not contain herself. I asked her if she was okay, or if she needed anything to stop crying. She said "Mommy, my heart is just SO happy right now. My prayer came true" She's so cute. We then met back up with everyone. I knew that one reason DD could not "calm down" was because she was without nap. So as they all wanted to shop more, we decided to take the bus home. SUCH a MISTAKE! OMG! So the bus picks us up at Market Place. It then stops at West Side and PI, then it stops at Typhoon Lagoon. Then it drives PAST POFQ and stops at all the POR stops. WHAT? an HOUR later, we're home and DD is SOUND asleep on the bus.

By now, Andi was back and packing up It was time for her to get back home and to work *pout*. BYE ANDI, see you in a few days. The rest of the crew was also leaving as they were going to Andis to visit the beach before they drove back to Iowa. BYE GUYS! It was just me and DD now. We laid down for a good nap. When we woke up we headed out to explore Kissimee and find a WalMart so I could get a new camera. Didn't find it but got hungry and decided to go to Outback - YUM. I was still a bit full from my icecream so just had a salad and some Coconut shrimp - YUM. On our way out I ask the guy up front where WalMart was , oh just 2 miles from where I gave up..GOOD! Decided to do that tomorrow and head to MK.

Yup, back to MK, we just had not seen WISHES enough. Being DD and I's 1st night alone, I really just wanted to hold my girl and enjoy the show. We parked at POFQ near the bus stop and caught the bus to MK. We walked in MK as Spectro was finishing up. We found a spot on the hub, and settled in. As Wishes got closer we realized we'd have to stand, no big. Wishes from the hub is so different from Wishes from the bridge or even from the other end of Main St. It was a beautiful show and DD and I both had a tear at the end. She said "Mommy, my wish came true. Grandpa is gonna get better" sniff sniff.

As soon as the lights were back up we booked it out of MK. We got to the bus stop a few minutes after the last bus and were the 1st ones there. We waited about 5 minutes and headed back to POFQ. Since the bus was full, DD curled up in my lap and fell asleep. Once home i put her to bed and packed up our stuff. Since Connie's condo was held thru Sunday, I decided to save some $ and stay there until we left Orlando on Friday. I layed down for my last sleep at Disney. Goodnight Birthday!

** Next Up : leaving POFQ and a day off at the pool **

 

[catherines_mama]

Before I pick my report back up I want to take a moment to pass some positive thoughts onto a dear friend of mine. My friend Holly, whose family we are going to WDW with in December, lost her mother to cancer this morning. Holly, you are a beautiful person inside and out. You are blessed with an amazing family and I know you will make it through this difficult time. I love you my grimgrinningghost *KISSES*
Holly helped me SO much with planning this trip and there was not a day I didnt think of her. Love you Holls!!!

Day 6 : June 22nd *aka the day after the coolest day of the year*

So I did something I rarely do - LEFT THE BUBBLE! The rest of the crew left this morning to go to Bradenton for a few days SO we went to stay in their condo and save myself a $100 or so.

8:00 we get up without any alarm, DD watches some TV (shocker the Disney channel) while I do the last of the packing. There weren't any luggage buggies around so I enlisted DD to help with the pulley bags and we quickly packed up the car. Have I mentioned I brought WAY to much stuff

We drive over to the main bldg and check-out. I was really pleased that I got a good amount back from my spending money, I did really good In the immortal words of London Tipton "YAY ME!".

Money in hand we drive over to Winter Wonderland for a little game of putt putt, DD LOVES to play putt-putt so this was on my MUST list With DDs AP we got 1/2 off YAY and played the winter course. It was really fun! I'm really glad we did it, and I think I'd like to try the Fantasmic course next time to see if its AS FUN as Winter Wonderland was.

We finished up around 11:30 and went and grabbed some lunch at McDs. After lunch we headed over to *gasp* the timeshare at Orange County Country Club. Driving down 192 today I really noticed all the distruction from the fires a few weeks previous. WOW. I couldn't imagine what it was like at the time.

We get to the condo and unpack. I had packed my suitcase with our dirty clothes, and DDs with the clean. I started laundry, then repacked a small bag for the weekend in Bradenton. Perfect timing my friend Kym showed up to go for a swim. She and hers live in Tampa and had come over to see us. Her DDs are 5 yr old twins and her DS is my godson - He'll be 3 in a month!

With the arrival of the troops we hop in Kyms truck and head to the pool. Orange County has some fun pools. We picked the middle one for its cool kids pool. The kids had a blast and we were there for over 4 hrs. Around 5 we decided to go get dressed and head to dinner. We had NO plans so this gets fun.

After everyone showers and gets dressed we hop back in the truck and just drive. Now my friend is a great person - wonderful, but she's pregnant and HORRIBLE at deciding where she wants to eat. It took us 1.5 hrs of driving around in the crossroads area to pick a place, and we picked Olive Garden. That's cool, I love Olive Garden! But 1.5 hrs! YIKES

We get the birthday dessert "YAY ME!" and head out around 10:30 - yes 10:30! But hey, we had fun! They drop us off and after potty breaks, they head home.

DD curls up for bed while I finish laundry and packing, and laying out the next days clothes.

I know.. today was boring.. not much DISney, sorry

** Next up: Tomorrow will be fun - MK before opening, CP, and DDs picks the fun we have!**