How Do You Think We Stay So Happy?*Final Thoughts & Farewells* 10/7 p100

[kschafer]

For Sheree

I looked for that little beauty and never found it I wanted to bring home a mug but I never found one I liked as much as this

 

[TanzUnited99]

Great WS pics Christine!

I'm glad you all enjoyed Chefs as we have an ADR here for our upcoming trip!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I looked for that little beauty and never found it I wanted to bring home a mug but I never found one I liked as much as this

I will look for it in October for you!

 

[kschafer]

I will look for it in October for you!

You're awesome C!!!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

You're awesome C!!!

. No problem. I love having shopping missions. And doesn't hurt that the store we found them in is across from the Dawa bar. . Could be the best margarita. Ever.

 

[kschafer]

. No problem. I love having shopping missions. And doesn't hurt that the store we found them in is across from the Dawa bar. . Could be the best margarita. Ever.

And I thought you were being selfless In that case, you have to drink one for me too!

 

[SoonerGirl]

I'm with you Christine, how in the world do they keep that sand sculpture from getting damaged by the rain? I wonder if they spray it with something to keep it together Whatever they did, it looks awesome!

 

[sunny_stace]

Glad to hear you got a cute waiter at Chefs De France C! I can't imagine what the meal would be like without one!

TSI looks so nice...I really need to make sure I get there this year. I always enjoy it! And those photos were very beautiful! You certainly showcased it very nicely!

 

[cdotla]

Melissa....I can't believe that drama with the limo company!!! CRAZY! Can't believe you didn't get a personal call from the owner. If charging $2000 in unauthorized charges on someone's credit card doesn't deserve a personal call back I don't know what does!!!

MEK - great photos as usual. Glad you got a visit in to see the MK, and of course, the new que at HM...isn't it great? I can't wait to take the kiddos. Plus, I still haven't found the ring. Always reason to return, right?

Christine - good for you for getting in a "wog" during the trip. I seem to recall a certain someone (me) saying to you during our trip last Oct that I would be starting up an exercise program "pronto" upon returning home. Hmmm....do you think 9 months later qualifies as "pronto"?

 

[Queenofallthings]

Like Kathy, we have never been over to TSI...your pictures tell me I must get there on our trip! They are so crystal clear and gorgeous....they really tell a story! Great job ME!!!

 

[tinacaplan]

More fun updates and pictures! Yay! You and Cynthia's pictures (from her August trip) now have me totally convinced that we have got to get out to TSI while we're there, which is not something I would have even considered had it not been for the great pictures and reporting,

Just curious...what time of day were you there that it looked so empty?

 

[wigdoutdismom]

. No problem. I love having shopping missions. And doesn't hurt that the store we found them in is across from the Dawa bar. . Could be the best margarita. Ever.

I'm a fan of the "Lost On Safari" from that same bar.....

 

[Charleston Princess]

I'm a fan of the "Lost On Safari" from that same bar.....

I think on my next trip to AK, I am going to just hang out at the Dawa Bar and drink several!

A girl can dream, right?

 

[SoonerGirl]

I think on my next trip to AK, I am going to just hang out at the Dawa Bar and drink several!

I may just do that in October!

 

[MEK]

I am so far behind on our TR. ARRRRRRGGHHHHH! Will I ever catch up? Maybe a little tonight.

We had lots of fun in WV. It was an action packed twenty four hours. We got to watch Nick play soccer yesterday morning. They had a game in the football stadium. I can honestly say I have never stepped foot in a big east football stadium before. It was pretty cool.

Nick liked the assistant coach who was assigned his team. I think Nick also realizes he definitely wants to try to play college level soccer. It won't be at a D1 school like WVU, but I think he should be able to find a school somewhere.

In other news, I booked a treehouse villa for 6/10 - 6/15/2012. I am looking forward to meeting Anita, Mark, and Baylor AND seeing Jen again. I hope there will be some other DISers there during that time. We won't be cruising, as I originally hoped. But I think we will either visit Daytona Beach or go to Vero Beach for a few nights. Personally, I would like to do both - 2 nights in Daytona and maybe 3 in Vero. A 10 night trip sounds great, doesn't it?

Promise to get to replies very soon.

 

[MEK]

Oh I will always have some very very fond memories of Blue Zoo and I so look forward to eating there again!!!

Well I too am not the right person to ask, I went down twice within 4 weeks of each other am going back in October and maybe again in Dec LOL!!! So I'm not a bias judge!!

Glad Nick had such a great time!! That is fantastic for him!!!

BlueZoo was great. I look forward to my next meal there, whenever that might be.

And - yes - going twice in 4 weeks might be a record. If not, pretty close.

Nick had a wonderful time!

I thought I responded yesterday to the updates.

Mary Ellen thanks for sharing your weekend pictures. Sounds like another really busy weekend. Loved the shots of the MK especially the castle. I'm so glad you had a good morning.

You're welcome! It was a fun weekend. Actually, some of those pictures were taken earlier, but they seemed like fun ones to post.

I had an awesome morning in MK.

Melissa enjoyed your catch up. Of course the more I read about the limo charges the madder I got. I would have been freaking out. I think they should have refunded you the whole amount too. It's on thing to make a mistake but to not go above and beyond to fix it is even worse.

I agree completely. That's a huge mistake and one that should be fixed and then some.

Mary Ellen you have truly asked the wrong people. Whenever possible I say go to Disney. Showing someone around for the first time is the best. I love sharing the Magic.

I know. but here's the thing - if I can resist the enablers on the DIS boards, then I can resist anyone!

Mary Ellen, you have quite the quandry, to go or not. I would love to make all of those trips, but life does intervene at times to mess with our good times.

Do what your gut tells you & you won't go wrong. Your friend will understand if you decide not to go. Paying for college is a big obligation, I know we paid for 4. It was worth every penny.

I know whatever you decide it will be right for you.

I think you are very wise in telling me to follow my gut. If I listen to my gut, it keeps saying no. That advice definitely helps.

I'm enjoying your TR & pictures as usual.

Thank you!

I'm sorry that her dad is giving her the run-around. I know I would certainly be upset. It does sound like a good opportunity for you to get another trip in for tour guide duty! It would be nice if you could just make a long weekend out of it or something! It would be fine to check out Universal Studios too. I thought about doing it this year to check out the Harry Potter additions, but I just can't justify the amount of money I would spend in one day to see one small area. Nothing else has changed since I was there a few years ago so I think I'll wait it out some more. We've got the new Harry Potter movie next week so that should tide me over until I have another chance to get there!



::

I feel so bad for her. I don't know why her dad doesn't want to participate. I would love to be tour guide. I really would. If she had gone earlier while my AP was active, I think I could have justified a quick trip. But, as it stands, I just can't wrap my head around it. I have been spending a lot of money buying Brian stuff he needs for college. It's fun shopping, but it all adds up. There's a trip right there!

I would love to see HP, I will admit!

MEK - I don't think the sunlight hindered your HM queue photos one bit! I think they were great! I liked the one of Captain Culpepper, how the sunlight is streaming in over the top - very cool! I am soooooooooooooo excited to see it in person! I understand what you mean about not being able to resist things that make noise. If it makes noise or if there is any kind of button I can press - I'm all over it!

Thank you!

When I used to shop for my nephews (and my own kids), I was always pushing the buttons on all the toys. I can't help it. Can't resist. I still say it's because I didn't have enough toys when I was growing up. My mom always laughs when I say that.

 

[tinacaplan]

YAY for booking a treehouse! That's exciting!

 

[MEK]

Want me to tell my SIL to pick up 2 if she finds it???? I'd send it to you!!!

I think this mug is becoming the official mug for DISers everywhere. It really is a fun mug!

Hope your knee gets better soon!

MEK - those pictures are lovely - such great colors!! What a nice way to spend your time! I'm looking forward to getting back and seeing the changes. They had started to change HM when we were there in March. The queue hadn't changed yet, but the hitchikers were changing.

The queue is so cool. Imagine what it will be like during the Halloween parties. Pretty down right creepy, if you ask me.

I think if you feel in your heart (and checkbook) that it's just not the right time, you should pass on the trip. I know it sucks to be responsible, but like you said, college bills are coming... Your friend will understand and while it would be nice to help her out, it's really not your responsibility, it's just something that if it had worked out, would have been great. Tough decision to make for sure! I always have a hard time turning down any travel opportunity, let alone a WDW trip!!!

You're right. I know she does understand. I just feel so bad because as long as I've known her that's all I've talked about - Disney, Disney, Disney, and now its her first trip and I can't go. It's the worst of timing.

So my SIL will be there next week. I'm a little jealous, as I am with everyone else's trips. But I do remember last July when we went, and how hot it was. I'll be more jealous of all the DISers I know going in October!!! That's when I want to go!! But it will be October 2012 most likely when I go back. Sigh. It seems very far away.
But I do have Disneyland Paris in March to look forward to. All I can say is it BETTER work out. If that plan gets messed up, I'll be hoppin' mad!!!

DLP is going to be fabulous. How many people can say they have been there?

I hear ya about October. Even though I am going to HH, I REALLY wanted to go to F&W. I am definitely going in 2012 and I hope to spend all my time as DIS meets. I definitely think we need a giant PTR/planning forum for that so I know what everyone is up to.

I have never been out to TSI - you got some really great pictures out there Mary Ellen! Almost looked like you had the place to yourself too.

I think I did! There were people with me on the raft, but I went in a different direction from them so I hardly saw anybody. It worked out well for pictures. I was also too lazy to explore the entire island.

So my big regret is not getting to Tom Sawyer Island this past trip... these pictures make it worse. My kids asked, but we ran out of time/the heat. They would love to explore!

I haven't been to TSI since 2002 - 9 years. It's just one of those attractions that's easy to ignore because you have to take transportation to get there. I am glad I finally explored because I have been wanting to go for the last several trips.

That looks like the perfect mug Just the right size and shape, the handle is "comfy" and the glaze is nice and slippery inside. I'm so picky about my mugs and Disney has so many that are "just right!"

This mug is a little rounder and holds more than the average Disney mug, but you're so right - all the Disney mugs feel so right in your hands. If you need an extra big hit of coffee in the morning - this mug will do it.

Okay, caught up again. Mary Ellen, it would be so hard for me to say no to a request like that, but sometimes we just have to do what we know is best for us and our budget and have peace about it. I know you'll do the right thing for you.

It's so nice to know that everyone understands what's its like to be presented with a trip that is just wrong in terms of timing. I'm still torn, but I feel better about it. Thanks.

Fun pics at TSI! I think I've been over there once and just peeked in the cave with the kids for a little bit, then sat it out - I really should explore it some time!

I think the photo ops are endless there. It's cool to see all your favorite attractions at such different angles. I love that. I probably could have taken a ton more pictures, but decided to stop.

Great pictures, as always, ME! I haven't been to TSI in probably ~30 years so it is fun to get a look around. I remember being scared of those caves as a kid.

Well, truth be told - I was a little freaked out about going in a cave by myself, so I didn't. I did watch a few kids really enjoy it.

As for a "bonus" trip, as others have said you should follow your gut. There are lots of ways to help your friend and ensure they have a great time without being with them (as fun as that would be!). Good luck with your decision.

You are so right. I am trying to help her with planning her touring schedule and meals and things. I just wish I could help her more.

Oh man, I know I'd be torn about going in September too! I'd definitely say go with your gut. I don't get to go to Disney as frequently as that, so I'm always like "let's go, let's go!", but I know if I was feeling that much hesitation about timing, I would definitely take that into consideration.

I think the advice to follow my gut is definitely sound. Because that's whats really driving me. I wish I could just chuck caution to the wind and say, "sure", but its just not that simple. Timing is everything.

I loved your pics of the HM queue! I don't think the sun was that big of a problem (at least, it didn't seem like that!), you got pictures of the details really nicely! Ahhh you got a picture of the hanged man. I'm usually too busy telling DBF to look up with me and then getting freaked out and holding onto him. Funny enough, I just found out about him around a year ago, I never knew he existed until then! DBF and I watched a youtube video of it, and I had pretty much the same reaction!

I can't believe I got the hanged man cause I can never really see it that well. That was pure luck and I am very excited. It really is great to get some good pictures of a favorite attraction and its good to know I did them all flash free.

And Jen is going to go in Dec around the 1-6 so she can hang out with me and DH! We can float in the WL quiet pool!





It is! UGH! My doctors office stinks at things like referrals and authorizations! It's a giant pain in the rear! My doctor used to be on her own and about a year ago she joined a practice. The practice is known for these kind of problems! I'd change doctors but I love my doctor and the PA! I've been going to them for 13 years! I called yesterday and left a message with the girl at the desk and left a not so nice message with the coordinator! DH was actually there yesterday too and mention it to the PA and she knew about it already. So hopefully it's getting taken care of!

I can see why you're torn! I would be too. But perhaps you should just explain to her, honestly, what your reservations on going are and offer to help her make plans!

Sometimes a little push is good Mama! We had to push Johnny into doing sailing lessons this year (it was the first year he was old enough) and he LOVES it!!! He's talking sailing talk with DH now! LOL! I've also seen a increase in his self esteem since he started!!! I bet Nick is glad you pushed him to go!

Now Jen is going with you???? Arrgghhhh! I really considered going early like that, but I had a feeling Nicholas would miss a bunch of work if we went right after Thanksgiving. Then I had the weekend of the 12th picked but remembered I had to do the Compassionate Friends Memorial service, so I pushed it back again. I do remember feeling pretty rushed around Christmas, but I will just plan better before I go.

Sounds like your doctors office needs a department just for referrals or a referral hotline. That's too frustrating. Hope it gets taken care of.

I am glad I pushed Nick to go. He had such a fun time and they loved him and said he can go back to Uncle Joe's cabin anytime. The soccer camp was also cool because it was a really high level of play. He enjoyed and benefited from that.

The trip - well - seems that my timing is off all over the place this year!

 

[MeMom]

Great pictures of Tom Sawyer Island and of Epcot/Flower & Garden Festival. I, too, would love to make it to F&G every year. I think I'm going to miss out next year, though, as Jill is being forced to go to WDW with John's parents in February or March. (Can you imagine Jill dreading a Disney trip???) Maybe I can talk Trent into a short trip.

I know I have pictures of the AK mug from previous trips, but I think I saw it again on this past trip at Mombosa Market/Ziwani Traders.

 

[MEK]

I got a little behind on this TR, but I'm all caught up now!

Ugh, that's a tough situation with the possible September trip, MEK! I'd say if you can find decent airfare, go for it, but I understand about the timing too. Since my trip is coming up soon, and this is the first time in 3 years that we won't be there for Christmas, I'm desperately trying to find a cheap way we can go over Thanksgiving weekend, but I'm not sure it's the best thing to do right now! It's so hard to say no to Disney!

It is SO hard to say NO to Disney. If I could find really cheap airfare I would probably go. Or if I could get 2 or 3 weddings or funerals, but that's not going to happen. Oh Well!

Thanksgiving weekend - fun, but CROWDED!

I love your Haunted Mansion pics! Especially the ceiling one-I have to try to get a picture like that!! And Tom Sawyer Island looks so nice when you take pictures of it! When I was there a year ago, I was so bored, I mean, it's cute, but it was so hot and we were tired of walking around already, but now you have me wanting to go back and explore it again! I love that you do things alone, I really have to get up the courage to go to a park alone on my upcoming trip. I love being with my DH, but it would be nice to just wander by myself for a few hours!

I think I totally lucked out on the HM picture! I bet I can't duplicate that, although I am certainly going to try.

I do like wandering around by myself. I think its a good thing to do because its all about YOU! I do love touring with my DH probably better than anyone. He's so flexible and he goes whereever I want to go. Selfish, but I love that!

I hope you manage to decide what to do about the possible trip in September. I agree with others on that go with your gut instinct. If you do decide to go think you may be there whilst we are at Disney!

Really? ARRRGGGHHHH! There's so many people I would love to meet up with. But, even if I went, it would be really hard to do DIS meets when I am staying off site with my friend. I think our whole entire touring plan will be dictated by her children. He youngest is going on 5, so that could definitely slow things down.

Love the HM pics! Lol am the same with anything that makes a sound. Me and my sister went to the build a bear shop the other day and pressed all the sound buttons!

I am glad I am not the only one who can't say 'NO' to a sound button. I just can't help myself!

Cool TSI pics! I keep seeing great pics of that area and am now thinking that we have to pay it a visit on our trip

I think its a totally cool place for a kid, but I really went for the photo-op. I just had to see it up close because I haven't been over there in 9 years!

I'm not sure what the rest of the gals thought but this was one of my favorite meals of the trip. I just love Chefs. I didn't take one picture, however, so I'll have to depend on the others. Although we did not have a hot waiter, we did have champagne, good food and lots of laughs. And Chef Remy seemed to find us quite amusing as well!

Chefs was totally a fun meal. I can see why its a favorite lunch stop for many DISers. It's bright and airy. The food is good. The entertainment is great! No worries - I am sure Melissa and I got plenty.

I love you sand sculpting pictures. Very cool. I never even saw that.

ME, in over 20 visits to Disney, we have NEVER gone to Tom Sawyer's Island, so thank you for the great pics. It does look as if you had the park to yourself in many of your pics.

There really weren't too many people there. Everyone went there own separate ways. I bet its lovely over there when the weather is cooler. I recommend it to every DISer....research and all that!

Christine, I love the sand sculpture for the African Cats movie.

I agree - that it totally cool!

Wow, I just spent a good two hours getting caught up on about a hundred updates! What a nice way to spend some time, with all of you lovely ladies!


Seems like you're all having the perfect combo of solo and together time...I'm jealous!

It is really hard to follow a multiple trip report, isn't it? Glad you got all caught up.

I really did feel like this trip was a perfect combo of solo and group time. It worked out really well.

I love blue zoo...I think I may have had my best WDW meal ever there.

That really was one of my favorite meals of the trip. It was a great way to spend the evening.

Love the HM picks, Mary Ellen! Also nice to see you didn't let me peer pressure you into riding Splash Mountain without your scuba gear on

Exactly - scuba geer is mandatory ( or at the very least, a dollar store poncho.) I should show you a picture of my September visit to Splash. You would get a good laugh out of that.

This is a really fun TR. Sort of like watching a soap, where each character has her own plotline, but that plotline crosses that of the other characters now and then!

Yes - a soap opera without tons of drama - no adultery, no pregnancy scares, no cat fights. Just plenty of food, booze, and good times!