Ever, Ever After: The TR Formerly Known as Wishing You Were Here- May 2011

[PirateKate]

Great update! As I was reading I found myself cheering you on...like Woo Hoo, another victory under her belt!

I love your pics around the resort....there sure is a lot there to keep the boys attention!

Thanks for cheering me on! I do think getting the boys dinner that night without any incidents was a bit of a victory.

I was actually kind of surprised by how interested the boys were in all the Pop stuff. I hadn't expected them to be that into it, but I guess seeing gigantic, colorful things everywhere you look is exciting for toddlers.

Your narration of what the boys think always cracks me up I always think when I was little I wanted to run around and never nap...boy if I could have saved the stroller rides and naps for now as an adult

Seems like you did a great job balancing your food at Everything POP which is quite an accomplishment, because that place is usually difficult to get around as it is, everytime I go it is packed in there Looks like everyone enjoyed the cheesecake too

Thanks! Little kids never appreciate the finer things in life, like naps and having someone to push them around. I just hope Landon keeps his enthusiasm for walking once he's too old for a stroller.

Everything Pop actually wasn't too bad that night. There was no line for anything and there were plenty of empty tables. Not too many people refilling mugs, either. Maybe it was peak park time. We certainly did enjoy that cheesecake.

Need to try that tie dye cheesecake on my next vacation. I heard so much about it.
You should be very proud of your boys. I love it how they sit and eat without throwing a fuss

I love cheesecake and red velvet cake and foods that look colorful and cheery, so I always thought the tie dye cheesecake would be something I'd like. I hope you get a chance to try it sometime.

I am very, very proud of my boys. I could go on and on about all their merits and qualities, but I'll refrain. I will say, that they both have good appetites and tend to enjoy their food, so that probably makes it easier for them to sit nicely during meals.

Kate, I just love the way you tell us of your trip...it just keeps us glued to our seats. I think the boys did great on their first meal with mom alone, anjd they got to see two really big yo-yo's too!

Thanks! I think the boys did really good on our first meal, too. I guess they do eat breakfast and lunch alone with me most days, so we're pretty comfortable dining together. I thought it was cute how impressed they were by the giant yo-yos. That's something they'd never seen before.

Good job getting the food back to the table with no mishaps! I'm pretty klutzy without adding in a stroller and food tray, so I'm sure it wouldn't have ended well for me!

Good job also with the sippy cup trickery, I may just steal that move for our next trip.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who wished that they would build the legendary years. I really wanted to stay in a turn of the century room. It would be like bargain basement Grand Floridian!

Thanks! The tray was really pretty steady balanced on the handlebar. It worked well. I just figured as long as it didn't fall on the boys' heads, it would be fine, one way or another.

Before our trip, I was searching everywhere for Disney sippies that looked sort of like a refillable mug. I finally found those at K-Mart. Steal away.

Ooh, a turn of the century room would have been really cool. I bet a lot of people would have liked a cheap Grand Floridian alternative. Maybe they thought the Art of Animation would appeal more to kids.

I'm sweating from just reading about your endeavours with the two kids. Glad you all liked the tie-dye cheesecake

Transporting Carter and Landon around can be sweat-inducing. That was okay, I had the air conditioner turned cooler in the room.

I thought we'd like the tie-dye cheesecake, and I was happy to find that we did. It's a cool dessert.

I totally agree; wish they'd just stuck with the Legendary Years theming! I'd have def. chosen a 40's or 20's room! Imagine all the possibilities with the music, and icons!! WAH!

A 40's room would have been really cool, too! It would have been fun to see what giant icons they could have come up with for all the legendary years. Maybe they were concerned the 30's would be too depressing.

 

[oOJulieOo]

Just read through all of your TR so far and it's wonderful!

You are so very brave, taking both boys by yourself. I don't know if I could handle that with just one, but it sounds like you did great!

The boys look so different from your last TR. It's amazing how much they change so quickly!

 

[Nermel9]

I love your pictures of Pop, it looks like such a fun resort! I'm kind of sad they aren't building the Legendary years either, I would have loved to stay in a 20's themed room! I think the Art of Animation sounds fun too, but the Legendary years was so original!

Pop's food court sounds like it has some good choices! I would love to try that cheesecake someday! So cute how you tricked the boys with the sippy cups, great idea!

 

[afwdwfan]

I'm impressed not only by your ability to maintain peace while defeating the dreaded bedrails, getting the room in order, obtaining food, and eating but on top of that you were taking pictures of the boys as you went. I only have 1 to deal with and when we sit down to eat, I look at it as a victory if I get to eat my food before he decides to pull a Houdini and try to escape from his high chair.

It looks like you're off to a good start and getting along well with the new stroller, even if Landon doesn't appreciate it as much as you do.

 

[amazingact21]

I'm glad that dinner went smoothly for you three. The tie dye cheesecake looks very good.

It looks like you guys also had a pleasent walk to dinner. Your view outside your room is really nice!

 

[*Seanaci*]

I just LOVE they way you tell your story. So much fun!!

The boys look like they had a great time at dinner. And that cheesecake sure does look tasty!

Also...I love how Carter was chilling in the stroller with one leg in the air. Too cute!

We are crossing our fingers and hoping like mad that we get to stay at Art of Animation next year.

 

[PirateKate]

Just read through all of your TR so far and it's wonderful!

You are so very brave, taking both boys by yourself. I don't know if I could handle that with just one, but it sounds like you did great!

The boys look so different from your last TR. It's amazing how much they change so quickly!

Hi! Thanks for taking the time to read through my TR! I'm sure you're pretty busy these days. How's Switzerland?

Thanks! Carter and Landon are two pretty easy kids, so I felt fairly comfortable taking them alone, especially since it was just for a couple days.

They do look different now, especially Landon. He's starting to look less babyish already. I think Carter's haircut makes him look a lot older, too.

I love your pictures of Pop, it looks like such a fun resort! I'm kind of sad they aren't building the Legendary years either, I would have loved to stay in a 20's themed room! I think the Art of Animation sounds fun too, but the Legendary years was so original!

Pop's food court sounds like it has some good choices! I would love to try that cheesecake someday! So cute how you tricked the boys with the sippy cups, great idea!

Carter and Landon had a lot of fun at Pop. I was kind of surprised by how nice the lake was. I'm used to value resorts being all about gigantic colorful things.

The Legendary years would have been pretty cool. I wonder if maybe they were afraid the Legendary years would soon be outdated and full of stuff that no one could actually remember. Maybe Art of Animation will be nice, still.

I liked Pop's food court. There was a lot of variety, even though I ended up going with a meal I was sure the boys would like. And I did enjoy having a chance to try that cheesecake. I'm glad the boys fell for the sippy cup trick. No way I was losing my mug again.

I'm impressed not only by your ability to maintain peace while defeating the dreaded bedrails, getting the room in order, obtaining food, and eating but on top of that you were taking pictures of the boys as you went. I only have 1 to deal with and when we sit down to eat, I look at it as a victory if I get to eat my food before he decides to pull a Houdini and try to escape from his high chair.

It looks like you're off to a good start and getting along well with the new stroller, even if Landon doesn't appreciate it as much as you do.

Thanks! It really wasn't too bad getting everything done by myself. And the picture taking wasn't a big deal because the boys usually like having their pictures taken. Sometimes, when they're grumpy, I can pull out the camera and it cheers them up. I think they find themselves very handsome.

Landon's been working on his Houdini act, too. He tries to squirm out of his high chair, car seat, and shopping carts. I think he might have a future career as a magician. He could do it.

I'm glad that dinner went smoothly for you three. The tie dye cheesecake looks very good.

It looks like you guys also had a pleasent walk to dinner. Your view outside your room is really nice!

We really enjoyed our cheesecake. I try to limit how much sweets the boys eat at home, but at Disney, I let them live it up a little.

It was a very pleasant night at Pop. For a value resort, it's actually kind of pretty. It was good to be out of the room and out of the car.

I just LOVE they way you tell your story. So much fun!!

The boys look like they had a great time at dinner. And that cheesecake sure does look tasty!

Also...I love how Carter was chilling in the stroller with one leg in the air. Too cute!

We are crossing our fingers and hoping like mad that we get to stay at Art of Animation next year.

Thanks! It's fun to remember exactly how our trip went.

They had a very nice time at dinner. Carter and Landon are good eaters and they were definitely hungry that night.

I don't know what he was doing with that leg up. He did look cute, though.

I hope you all are able to get in at Art of Animation next year. I would think you'd have a good chance, since you'll be keeping track of when they start booking.

 

[tinacaplan]

Another update where all I can do is sit here in awe at your Mommy magnificence! I remember when Max was between the ages about nine months and two (ish) and he just would not sit in a stroller. Of course, he had to at times, but he was not happy about it. Nor did he want to be carried. He wanted to walk everywhere! Now, at nearly four, he's got no problem rolling along in his stroller and he is often asking to be picked up. And you're right...they do get easier!

 

[leshunlenese]

That cheesecake looks yummy! i miss pop food court i found myself eating there more this past trip than ever. we ate dinner there 3 out of the 5 days we were there.

 

[PirateKate]

Before leaving Everything Pop, I stopped to refill all our drinks so that we wouldn't have to come back any more that night.

I also made the boys browse through the gift shop with me. I saw lots of things I liked, but nothing that I liked to buy.

I spotted the Vinylmation trading box and hurried over to do my first trade of the trip. I pulled out Clock Cleaners, the one I had decided to trade first.

"I'd like to trade this one for number 24, please."

I was trying out a new number-selecting method- starting with the last number on the first day, followed by the second to last number on the second day, and so on.

The CM pulled out the Vinylmation behind number 24. I didn't recognize the character exactly, but it looked distinctly Muppety.

I liked it well enough, although I'd most likely trade it in the morning.

I wheeled the boys outside and considered what to do next. Judging by the sun, it was already getting to be late. No chance of making Epcot tonight.

Carter and Landon had not had too much playtime, between being in the car so much and being stuck in the stroller. I felt sort of sorry for them.

I decided we would spend some time playing outside. It had cooled down during dinner and felt too cold for the boys to go swimming or splashing, so I figured we'd look for the playground or any grassy place with room to run.

I walked back to the path along the lake, first of all. Watching the sun setting over the lake was kind of cool.

I admired the flowers growing along the path.

Everything was so beautiful. I felt so happy to be there, walking along with my boys.

The lake and the sky started to take on a pinkish tone.

While I was enjoying the peaceful walk, I knew the boys were antsy to get out and play. When I saw the giant Foosball field, I set them both free to explore.

Carter was instantly intrigued by the Foosball goalie.

Landon crawled over to check it out, too, so of course, Carter moved on to something else.

After pulling up and standing there for a minute, Landon got bored and went off to do something else.

Carter walked back over. "Big Guy!"

"I know! It's so cool, Carter. Look, there's a whole field of big guys."

Carter looked at them all, but his favorite was the goalie.

Landon was interested in the net. It made a good noise when he banged on it.

Suddenly, I heard someone from a third story balcony, apparently talking on a cell phone.

"Everything here has a freakin' Mickey on it! Freakin' Mickey shirts, Mickey cups, Mickey napkins, Mickey soap, and a Mickey phone. Freakin' Mickey!"

What did she expect to see at Disney World? Freakin' Gryffindor scarves?

Despite having just had dinner, Landon picked up a piece of mulch.

"Landon, that's not good to eat. It's not tasty."

He looked at me disdainfully and shoved the mulch in his mouth.

He made a terrible face and spit it back out and looked at me like it was all my fault that his snack hadn't been yummy.

"Well, I told you not to eat it."

"Big Guy!"

Carter was still fascinated by the giant goalie. Landon came over to check it out again, in case he missed the allure the first time.

Landon lost interest and crawled off down the sidewalk. I grabbed the stroller and told Carter to see if he could catch Landon and we went off to see where Landon would lead us.

Along the way, Carter spotted the giant Big Wheel. I could see the wheels turning in his head, but there was no way he could ride it.

"Dat!"

"That is a giant tricycle, Carter. Maybe it belongs to Big Guy. He'd be the right size for it."

We went pretty far, following Landon, because I knew he wouldn't follow us. We passed the playground, but it looked crowded and better for older kids.

Eventually, we wound up at Goofy's pop jets. There was a sign up and I wanted to go see what it said. Landon had other ideas, but I picked him up and carried him over to see what it said.

Apparently, the jets were not operating right now. Rats. That had been one of the main things I was looking forward to at Pop Century.

Since the boys didn't know that there was supposed to be water, they were perfectly happy with the Goofy.

I wished Landon could walk. The ground was kind of rough on his knees.

Carter and Landon were having a great time, but they kept being interrupted by parents insisting on taking their kids pictures. I tried to do the polite thing and move my boys from the picture, but it got old.

The kids getting their pictures made didn't even want to half the time. Their parents were making them pose there and interfering with my boys' fun.

Once a line developed for the photo opportunity, I had had enough. It was getting late and I could probably start getting the boys ready for bed.

I made them both get back in the stroller, despite Landon's protests, and strolled back to our room, number 3133, without even consulting my camera.

I got Carter and Landon changed and into fresh jammies. Carter got concerned when he saw he was getting ready for bed.

"Daddy?"

"Daddy still has to work, buddy. But, in a couple of days, Daddy's going to get up and leave work and get in his car and drive down here to see us and then he'll be with us the rest of the trip."

Carter looked at me skeptically. "Daddy car home."

Wow. I had had no idea that Carter would realize that Jeremy's car was still at home and not with Jeremy in Jacksonville. I considered how best to explain the concept of one way rental cars.

"Well, yes, Daddy's car, that he usually drives is still at home. You're right about that. But in a couple days, Daddy is going to...borrow a car. He's going to drive the other car here and then he'll return it and be with us the rest of the trip and ride home in Mommy's car."

Carter looked at me sadly and I could tell he wasn't buying it. "Daddy car no go work."

"You don't need to worry about Daddy's car. Daddy is planning on coming back in a couple days. I promise."

Before Carter could object, I changed the subject. "Carter, would you like a juice box?"

His eyes lit up and he smiled big, which I took for a yes. I got him his juice box and a bag of Teddy Grahams, and gave some to Landon, too.

I let the boys stay up a little longer, finishing their snacks and playing some more. I was a little nervous about bedtime, but there was nothing to do but see what happened.

We read a bedtime story and I had the boys brush their teeth and then we all got into our beds and I turned out the light.

I waited in the dark, nervous I would hear simultaneous screaming at any moment.

"Shoes off. Carter shoes off."

I hadn't actually put Carter to bed with his shoes on, had I?

"Carter shoes off, Bear shoes off. Blue Dog shoes off."

I was certain that I hadn't put Bear and Blue Dog to bed with shoes on.

"Carter shoes Lightyears. Shoes Lightyears, cool Carter. Pirate pillow, cool Carter."

I had to agree with him there. He is one cool Carter.

Once Carter finished talking, the room was quiet. I could hear Landon's sleepy breaths and it wasn't long until I could tell Carter was asleep, too. Our first day was a success.

 

[jc040404]

How sweet.. Carter does seem pretty cool to me, too. Poor Landon's knees though! That must've been rough for him, not that little ones ever let on when they have that freedom. He's adorable. How's the walking going now? I know he'll have it down next time!

Way to go on first day success! I can't wait to see how this goes once you get into a park with them.

 

[amandaw]

I'm really loving your trip report! I was completely surprised by your photos of Pop Century's surroundings. I have to admit that I never would've thought the landscaping & views would be so pretty at Pop. And I loved Carter talking himself to sleep - so, so sweet!!!

 

[TeresaG]

Aww, so sweet. Looks like they had a great time exploring!! I can't wait to hear your first park update. I still think you're superwoman for doing this at all.

 

[Mrs. Gumdrop]

It is amazing the way kids take all they know about their world and draw conclusions. Carter put two and two together and decided Mommy wasn't making any sense! Everyday is a chance to learn something new, for little kids and big kids at heart too.

Congrats on your first trade of the trip! I would say that Clock Cleaner for Muppets Scooter is a great start. I am wishing you a trading experience devoid of Big Babies and Animation Phils!

 

[amazingact21]

Yay on getting through the first day! The boys looked like they were enjoying themselves. I had to giggle that Landon insisted on copying everything Carter did. I remember being a kid and getting frustrated when my younger brother did the same thing and wanted to join me. Carter looks like he handles it pretty well, though.

Can't wait to see how the following morning went!

 

[afwdwfan]

Alright, a new Vinylmation! I wondered how long it would be before you traded. I love the pictures of walking around POP Century. I love that resort! I always enjoy seeing the oversized toys, so I'm sure they were extremely impressive to Carter and Landon. I feel sorry for Carter missing his Daddy, but I'm sure he'll be extremely excited to see him once he gets there.

 

[CandleontheWater]

Great update! Glad to hear that Carter and Landon had fun exploring Pop! The pictures of them with the Foosball men are really cute!

I also agree that it is tough with a crawler to find a good place to play. On our Oct trip I let Everett crawl around on the ground at SSR once, and he managed to scrape his feet and wrists. I felt like such a bad mommy!
Luckily on your next trip you'll have two walkers, not that I think it will be any easier!

 

[pinkxray]

It looks like the boys had a great time exploring. I just love all the pictures, especially the one with Carter looking up at the Big Wheel.

Too bad people kept interrupting the boys play time with Goofy. It really stinks that the pop jets weren't working during your trip. They always seem to be a big hit with little kids on all the trip reports I see.

It is so adorable that Carter talked himself to sleep.

 

[Shannon84]

Now I know the people at work must think I have gone crazy...I am laughing in my office reading your report I loved the comment about the lady and all the Mickeys...I mean really...what did she think was going to be on everything And Carter talking himself to sleep is too funny..he is a cool Carter!

 

[cadek]

You do have a beautiful view there! Glad you got to take the time to enjoy it. I hope all of your meals go as well as that one!

The Vinylmation trading has begun! You are the reason I'm going to try it. I just ordered some online for the boys, to give to them on the drive down. I might have to sneak a peak at them first though!

As for the questions about Daddy and his car being at home... isn't it amazing the things they pick up on! I don't know if we can ever really explain things to them. My 4 year old makes me repeat my explanations many times, and they get me no where! I wonder why I bother, or if I'm speaking a different language!