first trip as dvc members 08
- Thread starter finallydvc08
- Start date
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
Somehow, the kids actually let us sleep in until 9:00am or so. That overnight drive must have really done a number on all of us. But here we are, the day of reckoning.
I have wanted to join dvc for about 10 years, but only recently did it actually become an option . . . and that is because of great sacrifice on my account. With the current payrate of my new job, taken for the sole purpose of paying for membership, I have approximately 2 1/2 years of indentured servanthood until my debt is paid. And yet, in a few short hours it will all be worth it when I walk in the doors of VWL with my cherubic kiddos and dreamy husband. No more wishing upon a star for me. I will be living it, baby!
We all get dressed and eat. DH and I muddle over what time we should leave since check-in time isn't actually until 4:30pm. My good friend's hubby reminds us that he works in concierge of Pop Century and has "connections." Unfortunately, these connections can't get us an earlier check-in time but they can help us figure out what to do with our immense amount of food while we are waiting for our room. A call or two is made and we are assured that whenever we arrive, our groceries will be kept refrigerated until our villa becomes available.
Once we are told this, all previous notions of taking it slow are quickly abandoned. I stress to DH that we should leave as soon as possible so that we have a better chance of getting our room request. So we clean up from our meal and repack the car. Thankfully, DH is feeling more chipper today and is moving at a satisfactory pace. And while the children are slightly anxious about leaving, the mezmerizing graphics of the Disney Channel keep them from pestering us too much. Hannah Montana, Zach and Cody, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse have already begun to emotionally transport them to the mecca of all Disney fans, and we are able to pack in peace.
Then with a couple group snapshots and affectionate gestures (excluding little viral girl), we pile up in the minivan for the last leg of our pilgrimage. I promptly begin to play Disney music as ritual dictates, but I am shockingly affronted by DD8. "Mom," she says, "I am not complaining or anything, but you have been playing Disney music all day long, every day for many months now. Could we please listen to something else?" I consider this truth. Since I have discovered Mouseworld Radio, Dis Radio, Sorcerer Radio, Dis Unplugged and Mouse Junkie Radio online, I truly have been streaming it almost constantly. And some might say that when your children are able to differentiate between the Old Key West Resort background music and the Adventureland background music as mine can, it is time to broaden their horizons musically. "But DD8," I calmly explain, "it is our tradition to play Disney music on our way to Disney World." "I know," she says in a tone that lovingly assures me that her loyalties still lie with the great mouse, "It's just that we have already listened to these songs so much that I am a little tired of them." I truly take her concerns to heart, but then I recognize we are at the top of a slippery slope. If we allow them to play non-Disney music on our way this time . . . OUR FIRST TIME AS DVC MEMBERS . . . they may want to play non-Disney music the next time and the next time and the next time. Such blasphemous practices just can't be tolerated. I have to nip this in the bud before we find ourselves in an apathetic state-of-mind. "DD8," I say in a very loving but firm voice, "it is very important to play Disney music on our way to Disney World. It helps us get excited about arriving there. Think of how wrong it is to see the huge welcoming Disney World banner and pass under it while listening to something that has nothing to do with Disney. Now in past years, the rule has been to play only Disney music for the whole time we are in FL. This year I already broke that rule. We have been in FL for a whole day, and I haven't played any Disney music. But now is the time. We are actually driving to Disney, and we must play Disney music." DD8 understands this logic and is pacified with a promise that after our vacation I will not stream so much Disney radio at home until a month or two before our next vacation.
As we begin seeing road signs indicating that Disney World is not so far away, I flashback to past Disney trips when we have made the drive all night and arrived at the World fresh off the asphalt. Those trips involved me emerging from our minivan in sweatpants and heavy sweaters, the remnants of a colder climate. Hair would be in dissarray and make-up would resemble that of some of Disney's scarier parade characters. If our room wasn't immediately available, I would have to stake out prime property in the resort lobby bathroom to change, freshen up, and (on a few ocassions when shaving was forgotten prior to leaving) take to the difficult task of removing excess hair in an awkward position near the bathroom sink. Those days of blushing and profusely apologizing to fellow guests seeking relief from overburdened bladders were gone. We had taken the higher road this year.
I loved that I would now arrive stylishly, pre-shaven and immediately ready to roll.
And then we see it . . . the Disney World banner! Who would have thought that a concotion of paint and steel could arouse such ecstacy within a person?! Immediately the volume of the minivan erupts into extreme decibels of high-pitched squeals. At this point, my two reading children find it necessary to verbally expouse the written directions of every road sign we approach while DD3 is content to echo everything they say. DH finds that he can no longer remain indifferent as he laughs heartily at the grand commotion taking place in the back half of our van. And I affirm that 7 years of indentured servanthood would be worth this moment.
We pull into the parking lot of the Wilderness Lodge. The huge presence of this vast structure is truly awe-inspiring. The kids leap from the van in an attempt to rush the building, but before they take even two steps toward it, they hear the booming voice of Disney Mom. In true neurotic fashion, video and still cameras are whipped out before you can say "Yee-haw." Once the film is rolling and the bulbs are flashing, the family receives Mommy's blessing to approach the great timbers of the Wilderness Lodge.
I have wanted to join dvc for about 10 years, but only recently did it actually become an option . . . and that is because of great sacrifice on my account. With the current payrate of my new job, taken for the sole purpose of paying for membership, I have approximately 2 1/2 years of indentured servanthood until my debt is paid. And yet, in a few short hours it will all be worth it when I walk in the doors of VWL with my cherubic kiddos and dreamy husband. No more wishing upon a star for me. I will be living it, baby!
We all get dressed and eat. DH and I muddle over what time we should leave since check-in time isn't actually until 4:30pm. My good friend's hubby reminds us that he works in concierge of Pop Century and has "connections." Unfortunately, these connections can't get us an earlier check-in time but they can help us figure out what to do with our immense amount of food while we are waiting for our room. A call or two is made and we are assured that whenever we arrive, our groceries will be kept refrigerated until our villa becomes available.
Once we are told this, all previous notions of taking it slow are quickly abandoned. I stress to DH that we should leave as soon as possible so that we have a better chance of getting our room request. So we clean up from our meal and repack the car. Thankfully, DH is feeling more chipper today and is moving at a satisfactory pace. And while the children are slightly anxious about leaving, the mezmerizing graphics of the Disney Channel keep them from pestering us too much. Hannah Montana, Zach and Cody, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse have already begun to emotionally transport them to the mecca of all Disney fans, and we are able to pack in peace.
Then with a couple group snapshots and affectionate gestures (excluding little viral girl), we pile up in the minivan for the last leg of our pilgrimage. I promptly begin to play Disney music as ritual dictates, but I am shockingly affronted by DD8. "Mom," she says, "I am not complaining or anything, but you have been playing Disney music all day long, every day for many months now. Could we please listen to something else?" I consider this truth. Since I have discovered Mouseworld Radio, Dis Radio, Sorcerer Radio, Dis Unplugged and Mouse Junkie Radio online, I truly have been streaming it almost constantly. And some might say that when your children are able to differentiate between the Old Key West Resort background music and the Adventureland background music as mine can, it is time to broaden their horizons musically. "But DD8," I calmly explain, "it is our tradition to play Disney music on our way to Disney World." "I know," she says in a tone that lovingly assures me that her loyalties still lie with the great mouse, "It's just that we have already listened to these songs so much that I am a little tired of them." I truly take her concerns to heart, but then I recognize we are at the top of a slippery slope. If we allow them to play non-Disney music on our way this time . . . OUR FIRST TIME AS DVC MEMBERS . . . they may want to play non-Disney music the next time and the next time and the next time. Such blasphemous practices just can't be tolerated. I have to nip this in the bud before we find ourselves in an apathetic state-of-mind. "DD8," I say in a very loving but firm voice, "it is very important to play Disney music on our way to Disney World. It helps us get excited about arriving there. Think of how wrong it is to see the huge welcoming Disney World banner and pass under it while listening to something that has nothing to do with Disney. Now in past years, the rule has been to play only Disney music for the whole time we are in FL. This year I already broke that rule. We have been in FL for a whole day, and I haven't played any Disney music. But now is the time. We are actually driving to Disney, and we must play Disney music." DD8 understands this logic and is pacified with a promise that after our vacation I will not stream so much Disney radio at home until a month or two before our next vacation.
As we begin seeing road signs indicating that Disney World is not so far away, I flashback to past Disney trips when we have made the drive all night and arrived at the World fresh off the asphalt. Those trips involved me emerging from our minivan in sweatpants and heavy sweaters, the remnants of a colder climate. Hair would be in dissarray and make-up would resemble that of some of Disney's scarier parade characters. If our room wasn't immediately available, I would have to stake out prime property in the resort lobby bathroom to change, freshen up, and (on a few ocassions when shaving was forgotten prior to leaving) take to the difficult task of removing excess hair in an awkward position near the bathroom sink. Those days of blushing and profusely apologizing to fellow guests seeking relief from overburdened bladders were gone. We had taken the higher road this year.
I loved that I would now arrive stylishly, pre-shaven and immediately ready to roll. And then we see it . . . the Disney World banner! Who would have thought that a concotion of paint and steel could arouse such ecstacy within a person?! Immediately the volume of the minivan erupts into extreme decibels of high-pitched squeals. At this point, my two reading children find it necessary to verbally expouse the written directions of every road sign we approach while DD3 is content to echo everything they say. DH finds that he can no longer remain indifferent as he laughs heartily at the grand commotion taking place in the back half of our van. And I affirm that 7 years of indentured servanthood would be worth this moment.
We pull into the parking lot of the Wilderness Lodge. The huge presence of this vast structure is truly awe-inspiring. The kids leap from the van in an attempt to rush the building, but before they take even two steps toward it, they hear the booming voice of Disney Mom. In true neurotic fashion, video and still cameras are whipped out before you can say "Yee-haw." Once the film is rolling and the bulbs are flashing, the family receives Mommy's blessing to approach the great timbers of the Wilderness Lodge.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
Well, ya'll have given me the courage to make this a short story. So I went back and improved the rough copies of my previous posts.
I am dedicating this non-fiction piece to Megveg, the one person who would actually pay money to read my tale if some publisher were crazy enough to make a legitimate book out of it.
So here is the edited and expanded version of . . .
TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A NEUROTIC, DISNEY MOM: One Family's Story of Their First Trip as Disney Vacation Club Members
written by JL
The family of a neurotic, Disney mom is always an interesting one. They have to be in order to love and embrace the idiosyncrasies that are becoming of such a person. My family is no exception.
First in our family is Dear Husband (DH). DH was first introduced to Disney by me. I took him to the Magic Kingdom as a high school graduation present to myself. I introduced him to the entire World in 97 when we honeymooned there. Ever since then, I have slowly but surely been transforming him into a Disney fan. However, this process has been very slow, and he has not fully arrived yet.
Next in line is me. I am the neurotic, Disney mom. Born and raised in FL, I was birthed in Disney culture. My best family memories always took place in Disney. Couple this along with exposure to the New Mickey Mouse Club as an impressionable tween, and I was hooked for life.
DD8 is a special person in our family. This chick is my mini-me. She is already an obsessive planner in the making, specializing in Disney vacations. Her Disney trivia is nearing perfection. And this year she intends on scrapbooking for the first time. The subject of her scrapbook? Our Disney vacation, of course!
Then there is DS6. This guy is like no other. While his interests in Buzz Lightyear and Pirates of the Carribean are common enough, his support for his mommys love of Disney takes a unique spin. He regularly reduces me to a pile of warm fuzzies by presenting me with all the money he receives for gifts and chores to help pay for our Disney Vacation Club membership.
And, finally, there is DD3. She cut her teeth on Disney due to the obsessive Disney nature of her siblings and mother. And she puts almost all topics of conversation within the context of Disney. This occasionally makes for amusing misunderstandings which cause DH to shake his head and say, The brain washing is now complete. All this contributes to the fact that she is the most dynamic personality of the group. She has the ability to force all other family members to either join her in uninhibited giddiness (such as The Mad Hatter) or despairing gloom (such as Eeyore), depending on what her mood is at the moment.
This year our family is planning a trip to Walt Disney World (WDW). Our family has been to WDW before. But we just joined the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) recently, and this will be our first trip as members.
We are planning on going to the Magic Kingdom (MK), and this will be DD3 first time there. It will also be the first time that my DS will remember his visit since he was only 2 years old last time around. Naturally, this fact brings a certain element of excitement to the trip because it is always special to watch someone experience MK for the first time.
Also, I am particularly excited about our lodging this year. We have reservations at the Villas of Wilderness Lodge (VWL). I have wanted to stay in this resort since I was a teen, but I never really thought that I would ever get to do it. Now I finally will.
I have noticed that throughout the planning stage of this trip, I get a little overwhelmed with anticipation of all these firsts. It is a little difficult to take it all in sometimes. Needless to say, this particular planned adventure has a very heightened sense of anticipation for all in our family.
So with this, I invite you to join our brood as we embark on this milestone in our familys Disney journey and listen to the true confessions of a neurotic, Disney mom.
I am dedicating this non-fiction piece to Megveg, the one person who would actually pay money to read my tale if some publisher were crazy enough to make a legitimate book out of it.
So here is the edited and expanded version of . . .
TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A NEUROTIC, DISNEY MOM: One Family's Story of Their First Trip as Disney Vacation Club Members
written by JL
The family of a neurotic, Disney mom is always an interesting one. They have to be in order to love and embrace the idiosyncrasies that are becoming of such a person. My family is no exception.
First in our family is Dear Husband (DH). DH was first introduced to Disney by me. I took him to the Magic Kingdom as a high school graduation present to myself. I introduced him to the entire World in 97 when we honeymooned there. Ever since then, I have slowly but surely been transforming him into a Disney fan. However, this process has been very slow, and he has not fully arrived yet.
Next in line is me. I am the neurotic, Disney mom. Born and raised in FL, I was birthed in Disney culture. My best family memories always took place in Disney. Couple this along with exposure to the New Mickey Mouse Club as an impressionable tween, and I was hooked for life.
DD8 is a special person in our family. This chick is my mini-me. She is already an obsessive planner in the making, specializing in Disney vacations. Her Disney trivia is nearing perfection. And this year she intends on scrapbooking for the first time. The subject of her scrapbook? Our Disney vacation, of course!
Then there is DS6. This guy is like no other. While his interests in Buzz Lightyear and Pirates of the Carribean are common enough, his support for his mommys love of Disney takes a unique spin. He regularly reduces me to a pile of warm fuzzies by presenting me with all the money he receives for gifts and chores to help pay for our Disney Vacation Club membership.
And, finally, there is DD3. She cut her teeth on Disney due to the obsessive Disney nature of her siblings and mother. And she puts almost all topics of conversation within the context of Disney. This occasionally makes for amusing misunderstandings which cause DH to shake his head and say, The brain washing is now complete. All this contributes to the fact that she is the most dynamic personality of the group. She has the ability to force all other family members to either join her in uninhibited giddiness (such as The Mad Hatter) or despairing gloom (such as Eeyore), depending on what her mood is at the moment.
This year our family is planning a trip to Walt Disney World (WDW). Our family has been to WDW before. But we just joined the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) recently, and this will be our first trip as members.
We are planning on going to the Magic Kingdom (MK), and this will be DD3 first time there. It will also be the first time that my DS will remember his visit since he was only 2 years old last time around. Naturally, this fact brings a certain element of excitement to the trip because it is always special to watch someone experience MK for the first time.
Also, I am particularly excited about our lodging this year. We have reservations at the Villas of Wilderness Lodge (VWL). I have wanted to stay in this resort since I was a teen, but I never really thought that I would ever get to do it. Now I finally will.
I have noticed that throughout the planning stage of this trip, I get a little overwhelmed with anticipation of all these firsts. It is a little difficult to take it all in sometimes. Needless to say, this particular planned adventure has a very heightened sense of anticipation for all in our family.
So with this, I invite you to join our brood as we embark on this milestone in our familys Disney journey and listen to the true confessions of a neurotic, Disney mom.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
DAY 1
I have been packing for at least a month now in preparation for our trip. All the suitcases have just been sitting in DS room, waiting to be loaded into our minivan. And daily, I have been acquiring things from the store that the ULTIMATE DISNEY PACKING LIST says I should have.
But here we are--the day of departure--and there is still so much to be done!
My children have a medical condition that requires them to be on a strict medical diet. Most of the foods that they eat are not consistently found in grocery stores. And this complicates our preparation for vacation considerably.
Since I cant risk getting to Orlando and not finding their approved foods, we have to grocery shop prior to leaving. We then have to pack an entire weeks worth of groceries for the trip. Unfortunately, almost everything my children eat is perishable, so virtually none of these food items can be purchased or packed much before the day of departure.
My husband seems to be dragging his feet. I know that he is excited to take this trip, but his attitude can really stink when he has to help out with something like packing. I understand that it is particularly laborious, but I am so anxious to get going, that his snail-pace-with-grumpy-face manner is irritating me beyond description. Doesnt he know that going to Disney invokes blissful joy that overcomes all other dislikes? His apparent lack of understanding this basic principle somehow renders me incapable of invoking this gleeful state as well. His contagious cranky spirit is stealing my happiness, and this irritates me further as I acknowledge the hypocrisy of being irritated by someone elses inability to overcome irritability. I find myself in a vicious downward spiral at this point that drags me into the dark recesses that hide in every neurotic, Disney moms mind.
We have to make a 13-hour trip in one big drive straight through the night to reach our Disney destination. Particular family factors dictate this type of traveling:
1) As I already mentioned, almost all our groceries are perishable and need to get to a refrigerator as quickly as possible. Night-driving provides a cooler temperature along with less traffic, giving our food items a better chance of arriving in Orlando unspoiled.
2) My childrens diet requires that their meals be made from scratch. These types of meals are difficult to serve on the road, and stopping in at random restaurants is not an option due to a lot of unknowns concerning the restaurants food preparation. Since the children dont eat during the night hours, this almost entirely eliminates this difficulty for us.
I am a little anxious about having to make this drive because I know that DH will not be much help when I am ready to occupy the passenger seat. He is incapable of driving for more than an hour or two at a time. He gets road hypnosis or something and goes right to sleep, and it scares the snot out of me since he could kill us all. This, obviously, means that the brunt of the journey falls to me. And I find myself getting more irritated as I think about my impending duty as primary driver.
I was hoping to feed the kids, clean up from dinner and get on the road by 7 pm so that I could get a good portion of the trip covered by the time sleepiness hits me. But DH's poor attitude is prolonging the process to an extent that makes me want to pull my hair out.
We finally get in the car about 9:30pm and pull out of the drive-way. DH then tells me we have to stop at Walmart to get some more last minute things. I am not amused. After our stop at Walmart, we finally begin our trip at 10:30pm . . . 3 1/2 hours behind schedule! This is not a good start according to an anal Rabbit-type
person such as myself. My DD8 (mini-me) is a little frustrated as well.
DH offers to start the drive. I turn him down because I know that I will have to take over for him within the hour, and that would only further irritate me. Also, I know that my current inner-turmoil will serve us well as I tend to drive a little faster when I am cranky.
So off we go. I am conquering the road at an exciting pace. DH promptly falls asleep. DD8, DS6, and DD3 are squished but quiet and content as they watch a movie together in the lone, bench seat of our van.
DD8 is crammed up against the side of the van because the two carseats of her siblings occupy the vast majority of the bench seat. At one point DD8 whines a little about being uncomfortable. Even though her frustration is valid, she is quickly barked at by her lunatic mom who has not yet relinquished her grudges against the vacation-menacing dad. "I don't want to hear one syllable of complaint, I exclaim. I am working a job for the sole purpose of financing these wonderful Disney vacations, and being cramped in the car like this is the only way we can do it. If I hear even one whimper of complaining--so help me--the
complainer will not go on any of the Disney trips in future years. He or she will stay home with Grandma because only happy people are allowed in Disney World!" In my mind, I am fully aware that if this were entirely true, I would be the first one eliminated at this point. But being the neurotic, Disney mommy that I am, I tend to say these hypocritical and guilt-inducing things in times of high stress . My empty threat works, and there are no complaints henceforth.
Once the movie is over, it is time to turn off the TV and allow my sweet offspring to dream away the miles between us and our blissful Disney destination. Since the cars sound system is no longer occupied by the screen-play of Treasure Planet, I put on music in the front of the van and keep blazing a trail on the interstate.
As I immerse myself in the consuming world of radio, I begin to sing away my frustration over the challenging start to our trip. Slowly, all becomes right in my world again. With each note I slowly evolve into the compassionate, loving, comforting, fun-filled, doting wife and mother that I usually am on WDW trips. So I continue to sing and sing and sing with a smile as I think about my now inevitable arrival in Orlando . . . if I can just get through this drive.
Apparently, I hit some kind of groove and find myself driving without the faintest sign of impending exhaustion. The states go by, and I am still going strong. Around 6:30 am, I begin to feel a slight inkling of reduction in energy and my vocal chords are hoarse from the relentless abuse of an 8-hour singing marathon.
I am truly pleased as I acknowledge my Disney World driving record in duration and speed. I have taken us from central VA past the FL border and somehow shaved 2 hours off of our trip. With this badge of honor worn proudly on my sleeve, I relinquish the wheel to DH who awakes and is in awe of me. I smugly tell him that I can take the wheel back should he tire in an hour as he usually does. He smirks at my snootiness and assures me that he is capable of handling the
remainder of the drive.
As I snuggle into the passenger seat, my slight reduction of energy becomes complete exhaustion. I happily go comatose in an uncomfortable, upright position, knowing that in a few hours I will wake up at my friend's house in Kissimee, and I will be only one day away from arriving at WDW.
I have been packing for at least a month now in preparation for our trip. All the suitcases have just been sitting in DS room, waiting to be loaded into our minivan. And daily, I have been acquiring things from the store that the ULTIMATE DISNEY PACKING LIST says I should have.
But here we are--the day of departure--and there is still so much to be done!
My children have a medical condition that requires them to be on a strict medical diet. Most of the foods that they eat are not consistently found in grocery stores. And this complicates our preparation for vacation considerably.
Since I cant risk getting to Orlando and not finding their approved foods, we have to grocery shop prior to leaving. We then have to pack an entire weeks worth of groceries for the trip. Unfortunately, almost everything my children eat is perishable, so virtually none of these food items can be purchased or packed much before the day of departure.
My husband seems to be dragging his feet. I know that he is excited to take this trip, but his attitude can really stink when he has to help out with something like packing. I understand that it is particularly laborious, but I am so anxious to get going, that his snail-pace-with-grumpy-face manner is irritating me beyond description. Doesnt he know that going to Disney invokes blissful joy that overcomes all other dislikes? His apparent lack of understanding this basic principle somehow renders me incapable of invoking this gleeful state as well. His contagious cranky spirit is stealing my happiness, and this irritates me further as I acknowledge the hypocrisy of being irritated by someone elses inability to overcome irritability. I find myself in a vicious downward spiral at this point that drags me into the dark recesses that hide in every neurotic, Disney moms mind.
We have to make a 13-hour trip in one big drive straight through the night to reach our Disney destination. Particular family factors dictate this type of traveling:
1) As I already mentioned, almost all our groceries are perishable and need to get to a refrigerator as quickly as possible. Night-driving provides a cooler temperature along with less traffic, giving our food items a better chance of arriving in Orlando unspoiled.
2) My childrens diet requires that their meals be made from scratch. These types of meals are difficult to serve on the road, and stopping in at random restaurants is not an option due to a lot of unknowns concerning the restaurants food preparation. Since the children dont eat during the night hours, this almost entirely eliminates this difficulty for us.
I am a little anxious about having to make this drive because I know that DH will not be much help when I am ready to occupy the passenger seat. He is incapable of driving for more than an hour or two at a time. He gets road hypnosis or something and goes right to sleep, and it scares the snot out of me since he could kill us all. This, obviously, means that the brunt of the journey falls to me. And I find myself getting more irritated as I think about my impending duty as primary driver.
I was hoping to feed the kids, clean up from dinner and get on the road by 7 pm so that I could get a good portion of the trip covered by the time sleepiness hits me. But DH's poor attitude is prolonging the process to an extent that makes me want to pull my hair out.
We finally get in the car about 9:30pm and pull out of the drive-way. DH then tells me we have to stop at Walmart to get some more last minute things. I am not amused. After our stop at Walmart, we finally begin our trip at 10:30pm . . . 3 1/2 hours behind schedule! This is not a good start according to an anal Rabbit-type
person such as myself. My DD8 (mini-me) is a little frustrated as well.
DH offers to start the drive. I turn him down because I know that I will have to take over for him within the hour, and that would only further irritate me. Also, I know that my current inner-turmoil will serve us well as I tend to drive a little faster when I am cranky.
So off we go. I am conquering the road at an exciting pace. DH promptly falls asleep. DD8, DS6, and DD3 are squished but quiet and content as they watch a movie together in the lone, bench seat of our van.
DD8 is crammed up against the side of the van because the two carseats of her siblings occupy the vast majority of the bench seat. At one point DD8 whines a little about being uncomfortable. Even though her frustration is valid, she is quickly barked at by her lunatic mom who has not yet relinquished her grudges against the vacation-menacing dad. "I don't want to hear one syllable of complaint, I exclaim. I am working a job for the sole purpose of financing these wonderful Disney vacations, and being cramped in the car like this is the only way we can do it. If I hear even one whimper of complaining--so help me--the
complainer will not go on any of the Disney trips in future years. He or she will stay home with Grandma because only happy people are allowed in Disney World!" In my mind, I am fully aware that if this were entirely true, I would be the first one eliminated at this point. But being the neurotic, Disney mommy that I am, I tend to say these hypocritical and guilt-inducing things in times of high stress . My empty threat works, and there are no complaints henceforth.
Once the movie is over, it is time to turn off the TV and allow my sweet offspring to dream away the miles between us and our blissful Disney destination. Since the cars sound system is no longer occupied by the screen-play of Treasure Planet, I put on music in the front of the van and keep blazing a trail on the interstate.
As I immerse myself in the consuming world of radio, I begin to sing away my frustration over the challenging start to our trip. Slowly, all becomes right in my world again. With each note I slowly evolve into the compassionate, loving, comforting, fun-filled, doting wife and mother that I usually am on WDW trips. So I continue to sing and sing and sing with a smile as I think about my now inevitable arrival in Orlando . . . if I can just get through this drive.
Apparently, I hit some kind of groove and find myself driving without the faintest sign of impending exhaustion. The states go by, and I am still going strong. Around 6:30 am, I begin to feel a slight inkling of reduction in energy and my vocal chords are hoarse from the relentless abuse of an 8-hour singing marathon.
I am truly pleased as I acknowledge my Disney World driving record in duration and speed. I have taken us from central VA past the FL border and somehow shaved 2 hours off of our trip. With this badge of honor worn proudly on my sleeve, I relinquish the wheel to DH who awakes and is in awe of me. I smugly tell him that I can take the wheel back should he tire in an hour as he usually does. He smirks at my snootiness and assures me that he is capable of handling the
remainder of the drive.
As I snuggle into the passenger seat, my slight reduction of energy becomes complete exhaustion. I happily go comatose in an uncomfortable, upright position, knowing that in a few hours I will wake up at my friend's house in Kissimee, and I will be only one day away from arriving at WDW.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
DAY 2
I wake up somewhere in Kissimee. My DH has miraculously driven more than two hours, and I find myself totally refreshed. The sun is bright; the air is hot, and I am rejuvinated as I imagine my pasty, white VA skin transforming into a beautiful FL tan. Life is good, and it is about to get better because we are staying overnight at the home of a friend of mine that I haven't seen since high school. Upon arrival, the plan is to feed the children, recover from the drive, catch up on 14 years in 24 hours and get "insider tips" since she and her husband both work at Disney.
Finally, the house is found. MapQuest has successfully led us to the front steps of my long-lost friend. DH and I get out of the van, stretch our legs, lovingly smile at each other and stroke our egos as we comment on a drive well done. The three restless children, who haven't moved in 11 hours, are freed from their back seat bondage. And we freshen them up as best we can, considering that the conditions for freshening are 95-degree temps and blinding sunshine. As the humidity assaults their unaccustomed compositions, I can see them bite their tongues in an attempt to hold back objections to the weather. "After all," I remind them, "Disney World is the 'happiest place on Earth'. If they allowed cranky people to come, it wouldn't be the 'happiest place' anymore. So we need to be worthy of entrance."
I ring the doorbell with great anticipation. This was one of my best friends in high school. We recently reunited through e-mail, and I am very excited for our families to meet. We have discussed how wonderful it will be for our husbands to pal around and our children to play together, and now the day has finally come.
The door opens. We are greeted by my dear friend and her husband who look as if they were the ones who just made the 11-hour trip. They excuse their appearance and explain that their DD2 has a flu bug and has been vomiting, continuously, all night.
I immediately see visions of my three beauties spending our precious days at Disney on the tile floor of our villa bathroom, taking turns puking in the commode. Is it too late to run? Can I somehow pretend that I am not actually her long-lost high school buddy but a look-alike that has mistakenly ended up on her front step and must be going now? Fourteen years of friendship doesn't compare in value to six blissful days of Disney, so I figure if she is really offended, the loss will be worth it.
But where will we go? I have got to get these groceries in a refrigerator because they are not going to last in a steaming, FL car. I also need a kitchen because it is nearing 10:00am, and my kids need their breakfast prepared. Where could I find a nearby hotel with such accomodations? Is it possible to get an instant 2nd mortgage on the house to buy more DVC points on the spot, giving us a chance to add todays occupancy of our villa to our reservation?!
Quickly I realize that there is no backtracking. We must proceed into the germ-infested abode of my welcoming friend but not before I describe her daughter's condition to my little mouseketeers as something akin to the Bubonic Plague and warn them to stay on the opposite side of the house as the sweet, viral darling. I hold my breath, cross my fingers, heart, eyes, say 7 hail Marys, rub my lucky rabbit's foot, sprinkle pixie dust over each family member and humbly pray to God for protection from viral infestation as we take our first steps inside the lovely, Kissimee dwelling. Any prior dreams of seeing my children playing with my friend's children will be put on hold for another year.
I am more at ease as we settle in for the day. The kids get fed, vitamins are dispersed with an extra dosage of vitamin A and C, and the viral little girl does seem to be perking up and refrains from vomiting.
My friend and I laugh over old memories and relay things that have happened to us since we have grown up. She tells me all about working at Disney . . . the casting process, employee perks. And then she flatters me by affirming that I meet all the requirements for being hired as a Disney princess. "Aww shucks!", I blush and encourage her to go on. I breathe in every word of Disney wisdom that she is willing to give me and look ahead--in my mind's eye--to the fun that awaits.
During this time, my kids quickly throw themselves into a tride and true WDW trip tradition . . . consuming endless hours of Disney Channel viewing. And DH goes in and out of consciousness as he nestles into the overstuffed sofa.
After a while, the kids and I try out my friend's enormous trampoline. When I discover that I no longer have the skill of jumping and holding my bladder simultaneously, we all retire for a couple hours to recuperate from our trek through the night.
We wake up in the late afternoon, get some more food and wrap up the day with a relaxing walk through the neighborhood to a beautiful lake. DH and the kids enjoy a swing that someone has put up in a willowing, cypress tree, and I walk out to the end of a rickety pier on the lake. I sit down on the very tip and try to "be one" with the peaceful water, but this is a difficult thing to do for a neurotic, Disney freak who is on the verge of entering the nirvana of Disney's holy ground. Nevertheless, I see some merit in slowing down, smelling the flowers and taking it all in. In this moment, I realize I should try not to obsess about conquering Disney during our vacation. It may serve us well to refrain from going "commando" at least some of the time.
The family joins me on the pier, and we all snuggle and watch the sun setting over the water. Then we very briefly do a little fishing--a first for all my kids--which ends with lots of squeals and giggles over the wiggling fish and the huge, white heron we feed them to.
We return to my friend's home, bathe, get in PJs and drift into Slumberland, knowing that tomorrow is the day we have all been waiting for.
I wake up somewhere in Kissimee. My DH has miraculously driven more than two hours, and I find myself totally refreshed. The sun is bright; the air is hot, and I am rejuvinated as I imagine my pasty, white VA skin transforming into a beautiful FL tan. Life is good, and it is about to get better because we are staying overnight at the home of a friend of mine that I haven't seen since high school. Upon arrival, the plan is to feed the children, recover from the drive, catch up on 14 years in 24 hours and get "insider tips" since she and her husband both work at Disney.
Finally, the house is found. MapQuest has successfully led us to the front steps of my long-lost friend. DH and I get out of the van, stretch our legs, lovingly smile at each other and stroke our egos as we comment on a drive well done. The three restless children, who haven't moved in 11 hours, are freed from their back seat bondage. And we freshen them up as best we can, considering that the conditions for freshening are 95-degree temps and blinding sunshine. As the humidity assaults their unaccustomed compositions, I can see them bite their tongues in an attempt to hold back objections to the weather. "After all," I remind them, "Disney World is the 'happiest place on Earth'. If they allowed cranky people to come, it wouldn't be the 'happiest place' anymore. So we need to be worthy of entrance."
I ring the doorbell with great anticipation. This was one of my best friends in high school. We recently reunited through e-mail, and I am very excited for our families to meet. We have discussed how wonderful it will be for our husbands to pal around and our children to play together, and now the day has finally come.
The door opens. We are greeted by my dear friend and her husband who look as if they were the ones who just made the 11-hour trip. They excuse their appearance and explain that their DD2 has a flu bug and has been vomiting, continuously, all night.
I immediately see visions of my three beauties spending our precious days at Disney on the tile floor of our villa bathroom, taking turns puking in the commode. Is it too late to run? Can I somehow pretend that I am not actually her long-lost high school buddy but a look-alike that has mistakenly ended up on her front step and must be going now? Fourteen years of friendship doesn't compare in value to six blissful days of Disney, so I figure if she is really offended, the loss will be worth it.
But where will we go? I have got to get these groceries in a refrigerator because they are not going to last in a steaming, FL car. I also need a kitchen because it is nearing 10:00am, and my kids need their breakfast prepared. Where could I find a nearby hotel with such accomodations? Is it possible to get an instant 2nd mortgage on the house to buy more DVC points on the spot, giving us a chance to add todays occupancy of our villa to our reservation?!
Quickly I realize that there is no backtracking. We must proceed into the germ-infested abode of my welcoming friend but not before I describe her daughter's condition to my little mouseketeers as something akin to the Bubonic Plague and warn them to stay on the opposite side of the house as the sweet, viral darling. I hold my breath, cross my fingers, heart, eyes, say 7 hail Marys, rub my lucky rabbit's foot, sprinkle pixie dust over each family member and humbly pray to God for protection from viral infestation as we take our first steps inside the lovely, Kissimee dwelling. Any prior dreams of seeing my children playing with my friend's children will be put on hold for another year.
I am more at ease as we settle in for the day. The kids get fed, vitamins are dispersed with an extra dosage of vitamin A and C, and the viral little girl does seem to be perking up and refrains from vomiting.
My friend and I laugh over old memories and relay things that have happened to us since we have grown up. She tells me all about working at Disney . . . the casting process, employee perks. And then she flatters me by affirming that I meet all the requirements for being hired as a Disney princess. "Aww shucks!", I blush and encourage her to go on. I breathe in every word of Disney wisdom that she is willing to give me and look ahead--in my mind's eye--to the fun that awaits.
During this time, my kids quickly throw themselves into a tride and true WDW trip tradition . . . consuming endless hours of Disney Channel viewing. And DH goes in and out of consciousness as he nestles into the overstuffed sofa.
After a while, the kids and I try out my friend's enormous trampoline. When I discover that I no longer have the skill of jumping and holding my bladder simultaneously, we all retire for a couple hours to recuperate from our trek through the night.
We wake up in the late afternoon, get some more food and wrap up the day with a relaxing walk through the neighborhood to a beautiful lake. DH and the kids enjoy a swing that someone has put up in a willowing, cypress tree, and I walk out to the end of a rickety pier on the lake. I sit down on the very tip and try to "be one" with the peaceful water, but this is a difficult thing to do for a neurotic, Disney freak who is on the verge of entering the nirvana of Disney's holy ground. Nevertheless, I see some merit in slowing down, smelling the flowers and taking it all in. In this moment, I realize I should try not to obsess about conquering Disney during our vacation. It may serve us well to refrain from going "commando" at least some of the time.
The family joins me on the pier, and we all snuggle and watch the sun setting over the water. Then we very briefly do a little fishing--a first for all my kids--which ends with lots of squeals and giggles over the wiggling fish and the huge, white heron we feed them to.
We return to my friend's home, bathe, get in PJs and drift into Slumberland, knowing that tomorrow is the day we have all been waiting for.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
DAY 3
Somehow, the kids actually let us sleep in until 9:00am or so. That overnight drive must have really done a number on all of us. But here we are, the day of reckoning.
I have wanted to join DVC for about 10 years, but only recently did it actually become an option . . . and that is because of great sacrifice on my account. With the current pay-rate of my new job, taken for the sole purpose of paying for membership, I have approximately 2 1/2 years of indentured servanthood until my debt is paid. And yet, in a few short hours it will all be worth it as I walk in the doors of VWL with my cherubic kiddos and dreamy husband. No more wishing upon a star for me. I will be living it, baby!
We all get dressed and eat. DH and I muddle over what time we should leave since check-in time isn't actually until 4:30pm. My good friend's hubby reminds us that he works in concierge of Pop Century and has "connections." Unfortunately, these connections can't get us an earlier check-in time, but they can help us figure out what to do with our immense amount of food while we are waiting for our room. A call or two is made, and we are assured that whenever we arrive, our groceries will be kept refrigerated until our villa becomes available.
Once we are told this, all previous notions of taking it slow are quickly abandoned. I stress to DH that we should leave as soon as possible so that we have a better chance of getting our room request. So we clean up from our meal and repack the car. Thankfully, DH is feeling more chipper today and is moving at a satisfactory pace. And while the children are slightly anxious about leaving, the mesmerizing graphics of the Disney Channel keep them from pestering
us too much. Hannah Montana, Zach and Cody, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse have already begun to partially transport them to the mecca of all Disney fans, and we are able to pack in peace.
Then with a couple group snapshots and affectionate gestures (excluding little, viral girl), we pile up in the minivan for the last leg of our pilgrimage. I promptly begin to play Disney music as ritual dictates, but I am shockingly affronted by DD8. "Mom," she says, "I am not complaining or anything, but you have been playing Disney music all day long, every day for many months now. Could we
please listen to something else?" I consider this truth. Since I have discovered Mouseworld Radio, Dis Radio, Sorcerer Radio, and Dis Unplugged, I truly have been streaming it almost constantly in our home. And some might say that when your children are able to differentiate between the Old Key West Resort background music and the Adventureland background music as mine can, it is time to broaden their horizons musically.
"But DD8," I calmly explain, "it is our tradition to play Disney music on our way to Disney World." "I know," she says in a tone that lovingly assures me that her loyalties still lie with the Great Mouse, "It's just that we have already listened to these songs so much that I am a little tired of them." I truly take her concerns to heart, but then I recognize we are at the top of a slippery slope. If we allow them to play non-Disney music on our way this time . . . OUR FIRST TIME AS DVC MEMBERS . . . this could set an ill-advised precedent. They may want to
play non-Disney music the next time and the next time and the next time until all future Disney trips are corrupted by music of the outsiders. Such blasphemous practices just can't be tolerated. I have to nip this in the bud before we find ourselves in an apathetic state-of-mind.
"DD8," I say in a very loving but firm voice, "it is very important to play Disney music on our way to Disney World. It helps us get excited about arriving there. Think of how wrong it is to see the huge, welcoming, Disney World banner and pass under it while listening to something that has nothing to do with Disney. Now in past years, the rule has been to play only Disney music for the whole time we are in FL. This year I have already broken that rule. We have been in FL for a whole day, and I haven't played any Disney music. But now is the time. We are actually driving to Disney, and we must play Disney music." DD8 understands this logic and is pacified with a promise that after our vacation I will not stream so much Disney radio at home until a month or two before our next vacation.
As we begin seeing road signs indicating that Disney World is not so far away, I flashback to past Disney trips when we have made the drive all night and arrived at the World fresh off the asphalt. Those trips involved me emerging from our minivan in sweatpants and heavy sweaters, the remnants of a colder climate. Hair would be in disarray and make-up would resemble that of Disney's scarier parade characters. If our room wasn't immediately available, I would have to stake out prime property in the resort lobby bathroom to change, freshen up, and (on a few occasions when shaving was forgotten prior to leaving) take to the difficult task of removing excess hair in an awkward position near the bathroom sink. Those days of blushing and profusely apologizing to fellow guests seeking relief from overburdened bladders were gone. We had taken the higher road this year. I loved that I would now arrive stylishly, pre-shaven and immediately ready-to-roll.
And then we see it . . . the Disney World banner! Who would have thought that a concoction of paint and steel could arouse such ecstacy within a person?! Immediately the volume of the minivan erupts into extreme decibels of high-pitched squeals.
At this point, my two reading children find it necessary to loudly exclaim the written directions of every road sign we pass while DD3 is content to echo everything they scream. DH finds that he can no longer remain indifferent as he laughs heartily at the grand commotion taking place in the back half of our van. And I concede that even SEVEN years of indentured servanthood would be worth this moment.
We pull into the parking lot of the Wilderness Lodge. The huge presence of this vast structure is truly awe-inspiring. The kids leap from the van in an attempt to rush the building. But before they take even two steps toward it, they hear the booming voice of Disney Mom, WAIT!!!. They take on the characteristics of human statues, frozen in time, for it is a dangerous thing to cross a neurotic, Disney mom once she has fully consummated her Disaholic personality by passing through the Disney World banner. Then, in true neurotic fashion, video and still cameras are whipped out before you can say, "Yee-haw." And once the film is rolling and the bulbs are flashing, the family receives Mommy's blessing to approach the great timbers of the breath-taking mother of all log cabins.
Somehow, the kids actually let us sleep in until 9:00am or so. That overnight drive must have really done a number on all of us. But here we are, the day of reckoning.
I have wanted to join DVC for about 10 years, but only recently did it actually become an option . . . and that is because of great sacrifice on my account. With the current pay-rate of my new job, taken for the sole purpose of paying for membership, I have approximately 2 1/2 years of indentured servanthood until my debt is paid. And yet, in a few short hours it will all be worth it as I walk in the doors of VWL with my cherubic kiddos and dreamy husband. No more wishing upon a star for me. I will be living it, baby!
We all get dressed and eat. DH and I muddle over what time we should leave since check-in time isn't actually until 4:30pm. My good friend's hubby reminds us that he works in concierge of Pop Century and has "connections." Unfortunately, these connections can't get us an earlier check-in time, but they can help us figure out what to do with our immense amount of food while we are waiting for our room. A call or two is made, and we are assured that whenever we arrive, our groceries will be kept refrigerated until our villa becomes available.
Once we are told this, all previous notions of taking it slow are quickly abandoned. I stress to DH that we should leave as soon as possible so that we have a better chance of getting our room request. So we clean up from our meal and repack the car. Thankfully, DH is feeling more chipper today and is moving at a satisfactory pace. And while the children are slightly anxious about leaving, the mesmerizing graphics of the Disney Channel keep them from pestering
us too much. Hannah Montana, Zach and Cody, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse have already begun to partially transport them to the mecca of all Disney fans, and we are able to pack in peace.
Then with a couple group snapshots and affectionate gestures (excluding little, viral girl), we pile up in the minivan for the last leg of our pilgrimage. I promptly begin to play Disney music as ritual dictates, but I am shockingly affronted by DD8. "Mom," she says, "I am not complaining or anything, but you have been playing Disney music all day long, every day for many months now. Could we
please listen to something else?" I consider this truth. Since I have discovered Mouseworld Radio, Dis Radio, Sorcerer Radio, and Dis Unplugged, I truly have been streaming it almost constantly in our home. And some might say that when your children are able to differentiate between the Old Key West Resort background music and the Adventureland background music as mine can, it is time to broaden their horizons musically.
"But DD8," I calmly explain, "it is our tradition to play Disney music on our way to Disney World." "I know," she says in a tone that lovingly assures me that her loyalties still lie with the Great Mouse, "It's just that we have already listened to these songs so much that I am a little tired of them." I truly take her concerns to heart, but then I recognize we are at the top of a slippery slope. If we allow them to play non-Disney music on our way this time . . . OUR FIRST TIME AS DVC MEMBERS . . . this could set an ill-advised precedent. They may want to
play non-Disney music the next time and the next time and the next time until all future Disney trips are corrupted by music of the outsiders. Such blasphemous practices just can't be tolerated. I have to nip this in the bud before we find ourselves in an apathetic state-of-mind.
"DD8," I say in a very loving but firm voice, "it is very important to play Disney music on our way to Disney World. It helps us get excited about arriving there. Think of how wrong it is to see the huge, welcoming, Disney World banner and pass under it while listening to something that has nothing to do with Disney. Now in past years, the rule has been to play only Disney music for the whole time we are in FL. This year I have already broken that rule. We have been in FL for a whole day, and I haven't played any Disney music. But now is the time. We are actually driving to Disney, and we must play Disney music." DD8 understands this logic and is pacified with a promise that after our vacation I will not stream so much Disney radio at home until a month or two before our next vacation.
As we begin seeing road signs indicating that Disney World is not so far away, I flashback to past Disney trips when we have made the drive all night and arrived at the World fresh off the asphalt. Those trips involved me emerging from our minivan in sweatpants and heavy sweaters, the remnants of a colder climate. Hair would be in disarray and make-up would resemble that of Disney's scarier parade characters. If our room wasn't immediately available, I would have to stake out prime property in the resort lobby bathroom to change, freshen up, and (on a few occasions when shaving was forgotten prior to leaving) take to the difficult task of removing excess hair in an awkward position near the bathroom sink. Those days of blushing and profusely apologizing to fellow guests seeking relief from overburdened bladders were gone. We had taken the higher road this year. I loved that I would now arrive stylishly, pre-shaven and immediately ready-to-roll.
And then we see it . . . the Disney World banner! Who would have thought that a concoction of paint and steel could arouse such ecstacy within a person?! Immediately the volume of the minivan erupts into extreme decibels of high-pitched squeals.
At this point, my two reading children find it necessary to loudly exclaim the written directions of every road sign we pass while DD3 is content to echo everything they scream. DH finds that he can no longer remain indifferent as he laughs heartily at the grand commotion taking place in the back half of our van. And I concede that even SEVEN years of indentured servanthood would be worth this moment.
We pull into the parking lot of the Wilderness Lodge. The huge presence of this vast structure is truly awe-inspiring. The kids leap from the van in an attempt to rush the building. But before they take even two steps toward it, they hear the booming voice of Disney Mom, WAIT!!!. They take on the characteristics of human statues, frozen in time, for it is a dangerous thing to cross a neurotic, Disney mom once she has fully consummated her Disaholic personality by passing through the Disney World banner. Then, in true neurotic fashion, video and still cameras are whipped out before you can say, "Yee-haw." And once the film is rolling and the bulbs are flashing, the family receives Mommy's blessing to approach the great timbers of the breath-taking mother of all log cabins.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
Hi JMSkinner.
Right now my husband is wishing that I did not write like me. I am having a lot of fun with this, but he doesn't like that not much else is getting done around the house
.
Sigh. Apparently, I have discovered another idiosyncrasy of a neurotic, Disney mom . . . all else becomes secondary to writing the trip report/book until it is complete.
So I hope I have the stamina to follow through to the end and that you have the stamina to hang me with me until I do .
Right now my husband is wishing that I did not write like me. I am having a lot of fun with this, but he doesn't like that not much else is getting done around the house
.Sigh. Apparently, I have discovered another idiosyncrasy of a neurotic, Disney mom . . . all else becomes secondary to writing the trip report/book until it is complete.
So I hope I have the stamina to follow through to the end and that you have the stamina to hang me with me until I do
.
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
Since the nature of a neurotic, Disney mom (NDM) is to maximize the few days she is given in her laughing place, efficiency is paramount. Her family quickly learns this concept and adopts the practice of divide and conquer. So, as all competent partners of a NDM should do, DH dashes to the check-in line to secure a position while I lag behind with the three short-legged persons of our crew.
Ooohs and Aaaaws are whispered as we discover the imprints of wilderness creatures embedded in the sidewalk. Then we scope out our surroundings in hopes of spotting one of these creatures. Suddenly, DD3 screams wildly, Look, Mom! We all turn in the direction of her little finger and enthusiastically run to the source of her excitement. Good fortune has decided to shine upon us today, for right in front of our eyes stands a behemoth-sized, buffalo bush and her baby. We recognize the rare occurrence of viewing such animals and commence with the inevitable mini photo-shoot. Once every angle of the chia-pets has been photographed, we proceed to the lodge entrance.
Exceptionally calm and happy park rangers who extend a welcoming gesture towards the lobby doors greet us. The large, glass doors magically slide open when we approach, and we all join hands and enter with great anticipation.
Walking into the great expanse of the Wilderness Lodge lobby proves to be more difficult than we had considered. We are unable to take more than five steps in because the upward movement of our eyes along with the drop of our jaws somehow halts the forward motion of our feet. Fellow guests, hoping to enter the lodge as well, find our stricken family to be a significant obstacle in their path. But little can be done for the moment because the immense and wondrous atmosphere of the lobby has removed all consciousness of the existence of others.
A gentle park ranger encourages us to take a few more steps so that the walkway can be free flowing once again. This breaks the spell of the lobby, and I remember that DH is about to check-in. I quickly hurry the children to the designated cartoon-viewing area for all VWL occupants. Then, with stunning grace, I pass all the people who are waiting patiently in the check-in line and join DH at the counter.
I arrive just in time as the check-in lady gives us the option of taking a room that is immediately available or waiting for the room category she sees as requested. DH looks as if he is tempted to relinquish the coveted pool view, so I quickly take charge of the situation. He doesnt know of the many hours I invested in reading detailed reports of room categories and their particulars. He hasnt pleaded with fellow listmates on various Disney boards to share their experiences of VWL. All this has been done so that a wise decision could be reached on this delicate matter, and I am not about to let my hard work be wasted.
I motion to DH that I will handle this detail and explain to the patient check-in maid that we will hold out for the pool view on the 3rd floor. She confirms that I have chosen the better option since all other views consist of inert trees. Inert trees do not allow for observing others in Disney action during the rare moments that oneself is not engaged in it, so such a view is unacceptable to a true NDM. I breathe a sigh of relief that disaster has been avoided by my timely arrival at DH side.
We are handed a folder containing all pertinent information for VWL residents, a phone number to call periodically for the updated status of our villa, and gift bags for our angelic offspring. And then it happens. The words that I have so longed to hear are spoken. Welcome home, the hospitable clerk chirps. My heart soars, for hearing this phrase marks the realization of a long-awaited dream. I am home. I have arrived. This is real.
Armed with our newly acquired check-in tools, we are prepared to begin our wilderness adventure. Once again, divide and conquer is the tactic we utilize. DH treks back out into the parking lot to find capable park rangers who will help him transfer our groceries from the warm minivan to the safety of refrigeration. I gather my little ones, and we embark on an exploration of our temporary settlement.
The thrill of being here is palpable, and we scurry from place to place.
DD3 declares that a bridge in the lobby, spanning the width of a creek and a bubbling hotspring, is her favorite. She requests a photo of herself on it so that the memorable location will be secured in a family scrapbook. DD8 is impressed by the etchings on the gold elevator doors. And DS6 seems ready to set up camp near the lanyard and pin kiosk since the shiny ornaments call to his collecting instincts.
I am unable to select a feature that appeals to me above the others. There is a great stone fireplace whose presence compliments the gargantuan rocking chairs that face it. We see a mercantile off to the side that serves as a perfect place to beckon passers-by to purchase a caricature drawing. And not to be overlooked, carefully placed Mickey Mouse heads remind you that even in the wilderness, our great hero is not forgotten. I cant help but love everything I see from the towering, totem poles to the boisterous noise exuding from the Whispering Canyon Café, for it all comes together in a beautiful arrangement.
The kids and I tramp through each floor. We want to see this great room from every angle. And we are rewarded as each level provides new views that would otherwise have been missed. Overlooking the railings, we find animal carvings in the large, supporting framework. The carpet and wallpaper reveal small Mickey figures upon closer observation. And there are cozy retreats sporadically hidden for occupants who want to read a book or take in spectacular views of Bay Lake.
We move on to discover the extending areas of the lobby. In an annex, off of the lobby, there is a table, strategically located, which advertises the virtues of being a DVC member. I conceitedly walk by since I no longer am in need of such information. I already am a member. The lyrics of their club song have proven to be true. I did believe in magic, as the melody suggests you should, and now I belong.
A few more steps bring us to an upward, sloping ramp to the Territory Lounge and Artists Point (an upscale restaurant). Since neither of those places is of immediate interest we take a downward, sloping ramp to the Roaring Forks (a quick-service eatery). DH rejoins us since the helpful park rangers have now assumed responsibility of our edible possessions, and we entertain the idea of having a snack since we all are getting hungry.
I check out the food options in this rustic café. To my surprise, they have a couple types of fresh produce available for consumption. Finding a fruit that is acceptable for my children, we inform them that they will be able to satisfy their carnal longings and participate in the business of an actual WDW eating facility! This is a rare treat since meals made from scratch are not regularly provided outside of our kitchen. I say a quick prayer of thanks to the Disney-powers-that-be for carrying a few healthier food choices than the routine burger, fries and soda. And the children ingest their fruit as quickly as their mouths allow. We dispose of our trash and decide to see what the pool has to offer.
We walk outside into the courtyard. The pool is close by, and its surrounding scenery is lovely. Huge stone formations emerge from healthy bushes and flowers. Shade trees hang over a shimmering creek that begins in the lodge but empties into a large free-form pool. Little bunnies play hide-and-seek with willing guests, and ducks enjoy their company, too, since the pool has no species restrictions . Laughter is heard in the air as an endless line of adults and children take turns sliding down a slippery rock. But the suffocating heat and humidity force us to recede back into the comfort of the air-conditioned lobby.
It is time to make a phone call. My little angels are quickly devolving into miserable beings due to missing their scheduled nap. It becomes obvious that our initial exploration of the Wilderness Lodge facilities has ended, and we find ourselves longing for the comfort of personal space.
The entire family huddles around DH in the lobby phone booth as he converses on the phone with those whom hold our fate in their hands. Much information is exchanged, and DH hangs up the phone. He announces that we have finally been granted permission to take up residence in room #3517. Magically, my irritable munchkins become happy park rangers and jump up and down in celebration.
We march out of the lobby and down the path towards the area of the villas. The building we come upon is very inviting with a beautiful, open room housing a large birdcage and some stuffed, leather rocking chairs. I note that entry to the fitness center, Sturdy Branches, is located here but know this is one area of the resort that I doubt I will investigate. Off to the side of the atrium is a room with tables set up for checkers and chess. Train models, replicating those of Walt Disneys personal collection, compliment the décor of the room too. It looks so inviting, but right now the call of our room is stronger.
When we find the location of our room, I cant believe how perfect it is. The kiddos are delighted that the view outside our front door overlooks the atrium, and I soon discover another unexpected perk. The view off our balcony not only provides sights of the pool but also a small walkway. This should provide plenty of opportunities for people watching, and I am so pleased with what we have been given. Of all villa rooms, we are the closest to the bus stop, the main lobby and the elevators. I doubt that our placement could have been more ideal.
As we familiarize ourselves with the layout of our 1 bedroom villa, our luggage and groceries are delivered. I glance at the clock and realize that there is no time to lose. We have plans to attend Chip and Dales campfire sing-a-long and movie at Fort Wilderness, and this is to begin in a few hours. DH takes his position in the kitchen, unpacking the groceries and starting the preparation of our dinner. Like a headless chicken on steroids-- the most familiar speed of a NDM--I run between the bathroom, bedroom, living room and closet, placing all items in their designated positions for the week.
The meal is served, but the pace is rushed because the clock is ticking. We are not going to make it! Hurry! Hurry, I coax the family, We still have to change. The campfire begins at 8:00pm, so I cleverly deduce that we should put on warmer attire and bring jackets so that as the sun goes down we wont be troubled by the dropping temperatures and chilling breeze. DH, DD8 and DS6 declare that they dont want to bother with changing outfits. I try to influence them to choose wisely and not make a decision they will regret, but they hold firm to their way of thinking. OK, I surrender, but dont blame me when you find your clothes are inadequate. I concede that some people have to learn their lessons the hard way, and I change DD3 (who is not old enough to refute my wisdom) into jeans and long sleeves.
We run out of our room, past the dormant geyser and down to the marina. I am thoroughly prepared as I recall the information I have gathered from countless hours of online investigation. I know that we are seeking boats that fly the flag of blue, for these are the boats that travel between the Wilderness Lodge, the Contemporary Resort, and Fort Wilderness. Making the mistake of boarding a red flag-flying sea vessel, the boats bound for MK, would be fatal to our evening schedule. So we are careful to veer to the right side of the marina, and we search anxiously for any incoming ships.
It is not long before we hear the pleasant horn of our designated boat. With excitement, we greet our skipper and pick a seat. Once the boat leaves port and we are clipping along the water, I quickly recognize that these boats will become one of the highlights of my vacation. There is something very calming about sliding across the waves with the wind blowing through your hair, as the evening sky grows dimmer. I know that I must return to this activity on another evening.
We reach the port of Fort Wilderness, exit the boat, and begin our search for the location of the campfire. I briefly notice that the air is not as cool as I had anticipated for late May, but I brush the observation aside since it will certainly grow cold when the sun finally sets. The greater task of finding the campfire is rather pressing at this point and climate conditions are secondary.
The family flits from place to place . . . no great campfire is within sight. The quick pace of our endeavor is elevating my body temperature, and I feel slightly uncomfortable. We seek guidance from a local country store and are informed that we must navigate a difficult bus system to arrive at the campfire . . . not only that but the desired spot for boarding the bus is still a slight distance away. What?! How can this be? There is no time for such inefficiency!
We leave the store with much haste. At this point, all facades of proper decorum are dropped. We break out into a run that any cross-country athlete would envy, dodging horses, carriages and unfortunately placed pioneers. I look down at DD3 who is holding my hand. Little beads of sweat are forming on her hairline because for every step that I take, she has to take two or three, but I rationalize this will be justified once she is in the presence of Chip and Dale.
Somehow, we locate the desired bus stop and bus. The tension builds, though, as we make visits to many other bus stops before reaching ours. Finally, we reach our destination and disembark. A quick look around shows us that our journey is still not complete, for there is no sign of a campfire. We, apparently, must trek further into the wilderness if we hope to enjoy the companionship of the beloved, furry friends.
Again we resume our accelerated pace. I see that DD3 now looks as if someone had poured water on top of her head and she is turning the color of a kickball. Why were the temperatures not dropping? How can I expect this child to sit near a campfire under such conditions? This was all going wrong . . . terribly, terribly wrong!
As we pass by smarter campers, dressed in as little clothing as possible, I become acutely aware of their troubled glares. DD3 appearance gives much cause for concern, and I realize that--as embarrassing as it may be--the only humane course of action is to strip her down. As DD3 goes topless, many families look at us disapprovingly. But I feel backed into a corner at this point. The humidity is overbearing, and there is not even a wisp of wind. They should be thankful that I have shown enough restraint to keep myself from going topless.
The campfire area is now within sight. Amazingly, we arrive before the show has started. There is still an empty bench awaiting the weight of our backsides, so we oblige it by sitting down . . . half-naked child and all. In an attempt to regain some composure, I hang DD3 shirt across her chest and tie the long sleeves around her back. She makes it known that this is not her preferred style of dressing, but I suggest that maybe she will start a new fashion. Although she continues to object, she becomes distracted by the song leader who now takes her place on the platform.
In no time, Chip and Dale make their appearances to the delight of everyone. And after a few rounds of Its A Small World and The Hokey Pokey, we are a little more relaxed albeit hot. We are then informed that the movie of the night is Homeward Bound. DH and I glance at each other and telepathically communicate thatas cute as it may bethis film is not worth enduring the breezeless atmosphere of the campground any longer. The children agree, so we make our exit.
Once back on the boat, the wind becomes more available. We start to cool now that the sun has disappeared. I curse the day that long sleeves were invented, but at least the weather conditions finally allow DD3 to resume the social practice of wearing clothes.
The vessel is more full than usual, so we take our places up near the skipper. The skipper taps DS6, who is seated right next to him, on the knee and quietly asks him if he would like to drive the boat. DS6 looks around to see if anyone has overheard this invitation. No one has, and DS6 feels safe to respond. He does not speak but only nods in agreement so as not to betray the secrecy of their plan. So when the boat is launched and on its way, the skipper discretely explains the operation of his ship behind the view-impeding engine. Under the cloak of darkness, my little captain takes the wheel and ably takes us to the next port.
DS6 wears a smile that beams even in the night. It becomes clear that he has found his calling in life. Any previous thoughts of growing up to be a paleontologist, firefighter or architect seem empty. He was born to be a skipper, navigating the waters of Bay Lake.
Our boat makes a stop at the Contemporary Resort first, so we disembark once again to look around a bit. To our delight, High School Musical is being shown on the beach. This more mature film is appropriate fare for our DD8 who believes she is already a tween, and DS6 and DD3 like the idea of being near the sand.
We are lucky enough to find lounge chairs right in front of the screen, so we make ourselves comfortable under the twilight. DD8 and I become totally immersed in the drama unfolding before our eyes, but the other family members quickly grow restless. It is time to fall back on the unfailing practice of divide and conquer.
DH gathers DS6 and DD3 and heads for the marina. DD8 and I make the most of our unexpected mother-and-daughter moment, snuggling together in a shared lounge chair while we watch on to learn the fate of Troy and Gabriella. In the distance, I see the Electrical Water Pageant on the lake. It seems certain that DH and the younger critters are enjoying that spectacle from the marina since boat transportation stops for the duration of the show.
Gratefulness wells up inside my heart as I hug DD8 a little more tightly. These are the memories I had hoped we would make. It has been a busy day, but it has been a fulfilling day.
Ooohs and Aaaaws are whispered as we discover the imprints of wilderness creatures embedded in the sidewalk. Then we scope out our surroundings in hopes of spotting one of these creatures. Suddenly, DD3 screams wildly, Look, Mom! We all turn in the direction of her little finger and enthusiastically run to the source of her excitement. Good fortune has decided to shine upon us today, for right in front of our eyes stands a behemoth-sized, buffalo bush and her baby. We recognize the rare occurrence of viewing such animals and commence with the inevitable mini photo-shoot. Once every angle of the chia-pets has been photographed, we proceed to the lodge entrance.
Exceptionally calm and happy park rangers who extend a welcoming gesture towards the lobby doors greet us. The large, glass doors magically slide open when we approach, and we all join hands and enter with great anticipation.
Walking into the great expanse of the Wilderness Lodge lobby proves to be more difficult than we had considered. We are unable to take more than five steps in because the upward movement of our eyes along with the drop of our jaws somehow halts the forward motion of our feet. Fellow guests, hoping to enter the lodge as well, find our stricken family to be a significant obstacle in their path. But little can be done for the moment because the immense and wondrous atmosphere of the lobby has removed all consciousness of the existence of others.
A gentle park ranger encourages us to take a few more steps so that the walkway can be free flowing once again. This breaks the spell of the lobby, and I remember that DH is about to check-in. I quickly hurry the children to the designated cartoon-viewing area for all VWL occupants. Then, with stunning grace, I pass all the people who are waiting patiently in the check-in line and join DH at the counter.
I arrive just in time as the check-in lady gives us the option of taking a room that is immediately available or waiting for the room category she sees as requested. DH looks as if he is tempted to relinquish the coveted pool view, so I quickly take charge of the situation. He doesnt know of the many hours I invested in reading detailed reports of room categories and their particulars. He hasnt pleaded with fellow listmates on various Disney boards to share their experiences of VWL. All this has been done so that a wise decision could be reached on this delicate matter, and I am not about to let my hard work be wasted.
I motion to DH that I will handle this detail and explain to the patient check-in maid that we will hold out for the pool view on the 3rd floor. She confirms that I have chosen the better option since all other views consist of inert trees. Inert trees do not allow for observing others in Disney action during the rare moments that oneself is not engaged in it, so such a view is unacceptable to a true NDM. I breathe a sigh of relief that disaster has been avoided by my timely arrival at DH side.
We are handed a folder containing all pertinent information for VWL residents, a phone number to call periodically for the updated status of our villa, and gift bags for our angelic offspring. And then it happens. The words that I have so longed to hear are spoken. Welcome home, the hospitable clerk chirps. My heart soars, for hearing this phrase marks the realization of a long-awaited dream. I am home. I have arrived. This is real.
Armed with our newly acquired check-in tools, we are prepared to begin our wilderness adventure. Once again, divide and conquer is the tactic we utilize. DH treks back out into the parking lot to find capable park rangers who will help him transfer our groceries from the warm minivan to the safety of refrigeration. I gather my little ones, and we embark on an exploration of our temporary settlement.
The thrill of being here is palpable, and we scurry from place to place.
DD3 declares that a bridge in the lobby, spanning the width of a creek and a bubbling hotspring, is her favorite. She requests a photo of herself on it so that the memorable location will be secured in a family scrapbook. DD8 is impressed by the etchings on the gold elevator doors. And DS6 seems ready to set up camp near the lanyard and pin kiosk since the shiny ornaments call to his collecting instincts.
I am unable to select a feature that appeals to me above the others. There is a great stone fireplace whose presence compliments the gargantuan rocking chairs that face it. We see a mercantile off to the side that serves as a perfect place to beckon passers-by to purchase a caricature drawing. And not to be overlooked, carefully placed Mickey Mouse heads remind you that even in the wilderness, our great hero is not forgotten. I cant help but love everything I see from the towering, totem poles to the boisterous noise exuding from the Whispering Canyon Café, for it all comes together in a beautiful arrangement.
The kids and I tramp through each floor. We want to see this great room from every angle. And we are rewarded as each level provides new views that would otherwise have been missed. Overlooking the railings, we find animal carvings in the large, supporting framework. The carpet and wallpaper reveal small Mickey figures upon closer observation. And there are cozy retreats sporadically hidden for occupants who want to read a book or take in spectacular views of Bay Lake.
We move on to discover the extending areas of the lobby. In an annex, off of the lobby, there is a table, strategically located, which advertises the virtues of being a DVC member. I conceitedly walk by since I no longer am in need of such information. I already am a member. The lyrics of their club song have proven to be true. I did believe in magic, as the melody suggests you should, and now I belong.
A few more steps bring us to an upward, sloping ramp to the Territory Lounge and Artists Point (an upscale restaurant). Since neither of those places is of immediate interest we take a downward, sloping ramp to the Roaring Forks (a quick-service eatery). DH rejoins us since the helpful park rangers have now assumed responsibility of our edible possessions, and we entertain the idea of having a snack since we all are getting hungry.
I check out the food options in this rustic café. To my surprise, they have a couple types of fresh produce available for consumption. Finding a fruit that is acceptable for my children, we inform them that they will be able to satisfy their carnal longings and participate in the business of an actual WDW eating facility! This is a rare treat since meals made from scratch are not regularly provided outside of our kitchen. I say a quick prayer of thanks to the Disney-powers-that-be for carrying a few healthier food choices than the routine burger, fries and soda. And the children ingest their fruit as quickly as their mouths allow. We dispose of our trash and decide to see what the pool has to offer.
We walk outside into the courtyard. The pool is close by, and its surrounding scenery is lovely. Huge stone formations emerge from healthy bushes and flowers. Shade trees hang over a shimmering creek that begins in the lodge but empties into a large free-form pool. Little bunnies play hide-and-seek with willing guests, and ducks enjoy their company, too, since the pool has no species restrictions . Laughter is heard in the air as an endless line of adults and children take turns sliding down a slippery rock. But the suffocating heat and humidity force us to recede back into the comfort of the air-conditioned lobby.
It is time to make a phone call. My little angels are quickly devolving into miserable beings due to missing their scheduled nap. It becomes obvious that our initial exploration of the Wilderness Lodge facilities has ended, and we find ourselves longing for the comfort of personal space.
The entire family huddles around DH in the lobby phone booth as he converses on the phone with those whom hold our fate in their hands. Much information is exchanged, and DH hangs up the phone. He announces that we have finally been granted permission to take up residence in room #3517. Magically, my irritable munchkins become happy park rangers and jump up and down in celebration.
We march out of the lobby and down the path towards the area of the villas. The building we come upon is very inviting with a beautiful, open room housing a large birdcage and some stuffed, leather rocking chairs. I note that entry to the fitness center, Sturdy Branches, is located here but know this is one area of the resort that I doubt I will investigate. Off to the side of the atrium is a room with tables set up for checkers and chess. Train models, replicating those of Walt Disneys personal collection, compliment the décor of the room too. It looks so inviting, but right now the call of our room is stronger.
When we find the location of our room, I cant believe how perfect it is. The kiddos are delighted that the view outside our front door overlooks the atrium, and I soon discover another unexpected perk. The view off our balcony not only provides sights of the pool but also a small walkway. This should provide plenty of opportunities for people watching, and I am so pleased with what we have been given. Of all villa rooms, we are the closest to the bus stop, the main lobby and the elevators. I doubt that our placement could have been more ideal.
As we familiarize ourselves with the layout of our 1 bedroom villa, our luggage and groceries are delivered. I glance at the clock and realize that there is no time to lose. We have plans to attend Chip and Dales campfire sing-a-long and movie at Fort Wilderness, and this is to begin in a few hours. DH takes his position in the kitchen, unpacking the groceries and starting the preparation of our dinner. Like a headless chicken on steroids-- the most familiar speed of a NDM--I run between the bathroom, bedroom, living room and closet, placing all items in their designated positions for the week.
The meal is served, but the pace is rushed because the clock is ticking. We are not going to make it! Hurry! Hurry, I coax the family, We still have to change. The campfire begins at 8:00pm, so I cleverly deduce that we should put on warmer attire and bring jackets so that as the sun goes down we wont be troubled by the dropping temperatures and chilling breeze. DH, DD8 and DS6 declare that they dont want to bother with changing outfits. I try to influence them to choose wisely and not make a decision they will regret, but they hold firm to their way of thinking. OK, I surrender, but dont blame me when you find your clothes are inadequate. I concede that some people have to learn their lessons the hard way, and I change DD3 (who is not old enough to refute my wisdom) into jeans and long sleeves.
We run out of our room, past the dormant geyser and down to the marina. I am thoroughly prepared as I recall the information I have gathered from countless hours of online investigation. I know that we are seeking boats that fly the flag of blue, for these are the boats that travel between the Wilderness Lodge, the Contemporary Resort, and Fort Wilderness. Making the mistake of boarding a red flag-flying sea vessel, the boats bound for MK, would be fatal to our evening schedule. So we are careful to veer to the right side of the marina, and we search anxiously for any incoming ships.
It is not long before we hear the pleasant horn of our designated boat. With excitement, we greet our skipper and pick a seat. Once the boat leaves port and we are clipping along the water, I quickly recognize that these boats will become one of the highlights of my vacation. There is something very calming about sliding across the waves with the wind blowing through your hair, as the evening sky grows dimmer. I know that I must return to this activity on another evening.
We reach the port of Fort Wilderness, exit the boat, and begin our search for the location of the campfire. I briefly notice that the air is not as cool as I had anticipated for late May, but I brush the observation aside since it will certainly grow cold when the sun finally sets. The greater task of finding the campfire is rather pressing at this point and climate conditions are secondary.
The family flits from place to place . . . no great campfire is within sight. The quick pace of our endeavor is elevating my body temperature, and I feel slightly uncomfortable. We seek guidance from a local country store and are informed that we must navigate a difficult bus system to arrive at the campfire . . . not only that but the desired spot for boarding the bus is still a slight distance away. What?! How can this be? There is no time for such inefficiency!
We leave the store with much haste. At this point, all facades of proper decorum are dropped. We break out into a run that any cross-country athlete would envy, dodging horses, carriages and unfortunately placed pioneers. I look down at DD3 who is holding my hand. Little beads of sweat are forming on her hairline because for every step that I take, she has to take two or three, but I rationalize this will be justified once she is in the presence of Chip and Dale.
Somehow, we locate the desired bus stop and bus. The tension builds, though, as we make visits to many other bus stops before reaching ours. Finally, we reach our destination and disembark. A quick look around shows us that our journey is still not complete, for there is no sign of a campfire. We, apparently, must trek further into the wilderness if we hope to enjoy the companionship of the beloved, furry friends.
Again we resume our accelerated pace. I see that DD3 now looks as if someone had poured water on top of her head and she is turning the color of a kickball. Why were the temperatures not dropping? How can I expect this child to sit near a campfire under such conditions? This was all going wrong . . . terribly, terribly wrong!
As we pass by smarter campers, dressed in as little clothing as possible, I become acutely aware of their troubled glares. DD3 appearance gives much cause for concern, and I realize that--as embarrassing as it may be--the only humane course of action is to strip her down. As DD3 goes topless, many families look at us disapprovingly. But I feel backed into a corner at this point. The humidity is overbearing, and there is not even a wisp of wind. They should be thankful that I have shown enough restraint to keep myself from going topless.
The campfire area is now within sight. Amazingly, we arrive before the show has started. There is still an empty bench awaiting the weight of our backsides, so we oblige it by sitting down . . . half-naked child and all. In an attempt to regain some composure, I hang DD3 shirt across her chest and tie the long sleeves around her back. She makes it known that this is not her preferred style of dressing, but I suggest that maybe she will start a new fashion. Although she continues to object, she becomes distracted by the song leader who now takes her place on the platform.
In no time, Chip and Dale make their appearances to the delight of everyone. And after a few rounds of Its A Small World and The Hokey Pokey, we are a little more relaxed albeit hot. We are then informed that the movie of the night is Homeward Bound. DH and I glance at each other and telepathically communicate thatas cute as it may bethis film is not worth enduring the breezeless atmosphere of the campground any longer. The children agree, so we make our exit.
Once back on the boat, the wind becomes more available. We start to cool now that the sun has disappeared. I curse the day that long sleeves were invented, but at least the weather conditions finally allow DD3 to resume the social practice of wearing clothes.
The vessel is more full than usual, so we take our places up near the skipper. The skipper taps DS6, who is seated right next to him, on the knee and quietly asks him if he would like to drive the boat. DS6 looks around to see if anyone has overheard this invitation. No one has, and DS6 feels safe to respond. He does not speak but only nods in agreement so as not to betray the secrecy of their plan. So when the boat is launched and on its way, the skipper discretely explains the operation of his ship behind the view-impeding engine. Under the cloak of darkness, my little captain takes the wheel and ably takes us to the next port.
DS6 wears a smile that beams even in the night. It becomes clear that he has found his calling in life. Any previous thoughts of growing up to be a paleontologist, firefighter or architect seem empty. He was born to be a skipper, navigating the waters of Bay Lake.
Our boat makes a stop at the Contemporary Resort first, so we disembark once again to look around a bit. To our delight, High School Musical is being shown on the beach. This more mature film is appropriate fare for our DD8 who believes she is already a tween, and DS6 and DD3 like the idea of being near the sand.
We are lucky enough to find lounge chairs right in front of the screen, so we make ourselves comfortable under the twilight. DD8 and I become totally immersed in the drama unfolding before our eyes, but the other family members quickly grow restless. It is time to fall back on the unfailing practice of divide and conquer.
DH gathers DS6 and DD3 and heads for the marina. DD8 and I make the most of our unexpected mother-and-daughter moment, snuggling together in a shared lounge chair while we watch on to learn the fate of Troy and Gabriella. In the distance, I see the Electrical Water Pageant on the lake. It seems certain that DH and the younger critters are enjoying that spectacle from the marina since boat transportation stops for the duration of the show.
Gratefulness wells up inside my heart as I hug DD8 a little more tightly. These are the memories I had hoped we would make. It has been a busy day, but it has been a fulfilling day.
DisneySunflower
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 16, 2008
- Messages
- 193
I am loving your trip report! 
MEK
DIS Legend
- Joined
- May 8, 2005
- Messages
- 20,088
Nice, nice job! I, too, just experienced my first trip as a DVC member, but I know I can't begin to capture the details as eloquently as you have. I will recommend that you try Vero Beach during one of your stays. It would be perfect for your kids' ages. It was also very pretty. The beach, with Disney flavor!
wigdoutdismom
Disney Driven in every way.
- Joined
- Jun 25, 2008
- Messages
- 8,082
New DVC member here too! Your trip report is fantastic, I know that I will never be able to remember all of the details as you have. Let me tell you though I felt as though I was right there with you, (breathing a sigh of relief) when you could finally put clothes back on your poor sweating child.....
finallydvc08
<font color=red>I am the original NDM<br><font col
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2008
- Messages
- 163
Hi ya'll.
Thanks so much for all the encouragement. It really has been a great motivator to keep writing this in spite of the time it is eating.
My DD3 is really sick right now, so I have to put off the rest of the report for a bit. I'll get back to it, though, as soon as I can.
Keep me on your subscribed threads so that you can be notified when I put up the next installement.
Thanks so much for all the encouragement. It really has been a great motivator to keep writing this in spite of the time it is eating.
My DD3 is really sick right now, so I have to put off the rest of the report for a bit. I'll get back to it, though, as soon as I can.
Keep me on your subscribed threads so that you can be notified when I put up the next installement.
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