I Knew There Was A Reason Why I've Always Hated My Birthday - COMPLETE

[marDgreen88]

Can I just 'hug' you? I am so sorry about what you're going through. I honestly wish I could offer up some sort of comfort, or something to say other than I'm sorry.

I'm glad you got a hammock hug. And I know you felt guilty for not being there, but I KNOW, just from how you described him, that he knew how much you loved him.

This is bringing back so many memories from when my cat died a few years back. Speaking from experience, though, I'm glad that your last memories and moments with him were good ones. You don't have to look back and remember him suffering and you will always remember him as being a happy and healthy dog. (Okay, I typed that before I read that you literally wrote the same thing. I have a bad habit of typing before I'm done reading. Must work on that.)

I sincerely hope that your next birthday won't be filled with memories of your last and that you can really and truly enjoy it. I hope that you'll be able to feel like yourself again soon. Not that this really means anything coming from me, but you are a really hilarious and awesome person and I'm glad that I (kinda sorta) know you. Thanks for sharing this with us, no matter how hard it was for you.

Your song was beautiful. I said it already, I'll say it again. You crack me up. Also, please remember we're all here for you!

 

[ronnmel]

I'm crying now. I remember when I was 20 years old and lost my dog. She was 13 y.o. and had been my best friend for as long as I could remember. When I felt down I would just hug her. She would always be so happy to see me whenever I got home. Sometimes I'd even put her front paws on my shoulder (she'd be as tall as me then) and we would dance. In the days leading up to her death I refused to believe she was that sick and would not agree to putting her down. Finally even I had to come to the conclusion that she was suffering too much and we needed to let her go to a more peaceful place. The night before she died I slept on the floor curled up to her. I miss Canelle a lot, but at least 10 years and two lovely cats have eased the pain. I'm sorry you couldn't be there with Riley before he passed away.

 

[Tracy161]

I'm sending a million hugs to you right now!!! I know exactly how it feels to lose a beloved pet and it's just about the worst feeling ever. And to experience that hurt and pain and Disney where you're so far away is just awful. I'm so sorry to hear that you are going through such a rough patch right now. I think, for starters, it can be a ver scary time in one's life in general, trying to decide what direction your life is taking and where to go to get there. I definitely went through that too, but it gets easier, I promise! At some point, things usually fall into place... or at least a little better anyway. Just know how much all your friends here are rooting for you!!! You are bright and talented and you will get everything on track soon, I'm sure of it

 

[Grumpy's Wife]

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's never easy losing a pet. I lost "Gracie" about a year and a half ago. Everyone kept telling me to get another dog but I didn't want it to feel like I was trying to replace her. Fast forward about six months and we did get another dog. It really was the best thing for my children and honestly for myself. While "Eillie" will never replace our first dog we all have enough love in our hearts to spread around. She's such a joy and brings life back into our house.

I wish you the best and I hope your next trip you'll have a very happy belated birthday meal at O'hana.

 

[coltsfanatic]

And you are so not alone. I am right there with you. Sometimes it really is creepy how we mirror each other. Especially with the loss of our dogs and depression. The way you described yourself is me exactly. Sometimes I'm seriously just like why should I even get up today, I'm not going to Disney World. Really. Before we left, when my mom was still kind of not into the idea of going on a trip right before Christmas, I was explaining this all to her so she understood why I HAD to go to Disney RIGHT AWAY and not for my birthday or for F&W next year, NOW. And she said something about how lucky I am that I have something like Disney in my life that can pull me out of any funk. And she is so right. Because a lot of depressed people are alone and hopeless and have nothing. And I mean really as soon as I got there it was as if God started snapping his fingers in my face saying IT'S TIME FOR YOU TO WAKE UP. So just hang in there. I know July seems far away but you know how time flies.

I'm so sorry you had to go through losing Riley at Disney. I have absolutely no idea how I would handle such a monumental experience of mixed emotions but I imagine I would need a sedative of some type.

Also, you are the best for many reasons, but especially because of things like this that never fail to crack me up:



AND THE 'OHANA SONG?! I can't handle it. You are an absolutely gigando name in entertainment, my friend.

Remember... if you need to talk just message me! Feel better.

I'm so sorry to steal Lia's quote, but this is exactly what I was thinking.
Even on the worst of days, my dog Ange is the only one who can cheer me up! I had the same regrets you did when my very close relative died a few years ago. My dad was visiting her the night before she died and noticed she was extremely weak. She was already on meds so there was really nothing he could do. Her nursing home was, of course, oblivious to her pain, and unfortunately early the next morning she suffered a heart attack and later passed. Something inside of me always says, "why didn't you just drive a mile down the road and say your last good-bye" but then I always respond with "that was her fate-God wanted me to remember her in a good way."

Again, I'm so sorry. You will get through it. You will gain success in your amazing career and have a happy family.

 

[MarieTheCat24]

Thank you all so much for the sweet comments! They really do mean a lot to me.

First, foremost, and most importantly: I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU.

And you are so not alone. I am right there with you. Sometimes it really is creepy how we mirror each other. Especially with the loss of our dogs and depression. The way you described yourself is me exactly. Sometimes I'm seriously just like why should I even get up today, I'm not going to Disney World. Really. Before we left, when my mom was still kind of not into the idea of going on a trip right before Christmas, I was explaining this all to her so she understood why I HAD to go to Disney RIGHT AWAY and not for my birthday or for F&W next year, NOW. And she said something about how lucky I am that I have something like Disney in my life that can pull me out of any funk. And she is so right. Because a lot of depressed people are alone and hopeless and have nothing. And I mean really as soon as I got there it was as if God started snapping his fingers in my face saying IT'S TIME FOR YOU TO WAKE UP. So just hang in there. I know July seems far away but you know how time flies.

I'm so sorry you had to go through losing Riley at Disney. I have absolutely no idea how I would handle such a monumental experience of mixed emotions but I imagine I would need a sedative of some type. Around the time my dog died, I simply just didn't feel like a person anymore. Just a robot going through the motions of life. In a way I think you are lucky that you weren't there when it actually happened because I was and there are no words for how terrible it really was. On the other hand, I can understand you not feeling like you have closure and that is difficult too. No matter how you slice it, it's an unbearable part of life. Just know that I am here for you and so are many other DIS friends. And I am going to try so hard to come in July to help make your next trip the BEST trip of all time.

Also, you are the best for many reasons, but especially because of things like this that never fail to crack me up:



AND THE 'OHANA SONG?! I can't handle it. You are an absolutely gigando name in entertainment, my friend.

Remember... if you need to talk just message me! Feel better.

Aw I love you too! I go back and forth as to how much I believe in fate, destiny, and all that jazz, but I really do think we were meant to know each other. Like you said, our similarities are uncanny. And not just in a 'We're the same age and we both have unhealthy obsessions with 30 Rock' kind of way. For whatever reason, when I'm at my most anxious/depressed, I tend to lather on the "I'm the only person in the whole wide world who has ever felt like this and nobody could possibly understand what I'm going through and sometimes everything is just the worst, Kenneth" thoughts thick, so knowing that I'm not that much of an anomaly at all is incredibly reassuring.

I'm slowly starting to break out of my funk, but I think that my July trip will provide the closure I've been searching for. If everything works out, we'll be arriving at WDW on July 6th, exactly one year after losing Riley. I want to use the next six months to regain some semblance of normalcy. Then, when the Disney magic washes over me, I'll be able to let go and move on. I'm only 21. I have my whole life ahead of me. I'm not going to be sad forever.

I really hope that you (and Jess and Kristen) can be there! It would be the most fun ever.

You think I'm an absolutely gigando name in entertainment? I think that's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.

Can I just 'hug' you? I am so sorry about what you're going through. I honestly wish I could offer up some sort of comfort, or something to say other than I'm sorry.

I'm glad you got a hammock hug. And I know you felt guilty for not being there, but I KNOW, just from how you described him, that he knew how much you loved him.

This is bringing back so many memories from when my cat died a few years back. Speaking from experience, though, I'm glad that your last memories and moments with him were good ones. You don't have to look back and remember him suffering and you will always remember him as being a happy and healthy dog. (Okay, I typed that before I read that you literally wrote the same thing. I have a bad habit of typing before I'm done reading. Must work on that.)

I sincerely hope that your next birthday won't be filled with memories of your last and that you can really and truly enjoy it. I hope that you'll be able to feel like yourself again soon. Not that this really means anything coming from me, but you are a really hilarious and awesome person and I'm glad that I (kinda sorta) know you. Thanks for sharing this with us, no matter how hard it was for you.

Your song was beautiful. I said it already, I'll say it again. You crack me up. Also, please remember we're all here for you!

You are too kind! And do an incredible job of making a girl feel better about herself. Honestly, just knowing that my random TR makes people smile helps to bring me out of that depression. I'm so glad to have found the DIS and that I have lovely people like you to share my Disney obsession with.

I'm crying now. I remember when I was 20 years old and lost my dog. She was 13 y.o. and had been my best friend for as long as I could remember. When I felt down I would just hug her. She would always be so happy to see me whenever I got home. Sometimes I'd even put her front paws on my shoulder (she'd be as tall as me then) and we would dance. In the days leading up to her death I refused to believe she was that sick and would not agree to putting her down. Finally even I had to come to the conclusion that she was suffering too much and we needed to let her go to a more peaceful place. The night before she died I slept on the floor curled up to her. I miss Canelle a lot, but at least 10 years and two lovely cats have eased the pain. I'm sorry you couldn't be there with Riley before he passed away.

That's exactly how Riley and I were. He was a constant source of comfort for me. I'm glad to hear that time and new furry friends will help ease the pain.

 

[MarieTheCat24]

I'm sending a million hugs to you right now!!! I know exactly how it feels to lose a beloved pet and it's just about the worst feeling ever. And to experience that hurt and pain and Disney where you're so far away is just awful. I'm so sorry to hear that you are going through such a rough patch right now. I think, for starters, it can be a ver scary time in one's life in general, trying to decide what direction your life is taking and where to go to get there. I definitely went through that too, but it gets easier, I promise! At some point, things usually fall into place... or at least a little better anyway. Just know how much all your friends here are rooting for you!!! You are bright and talented and you will get everything on track soon, I'm sure of it

Thank you! I feel like I've been hit with the perfect storm of challenges, but I'm incredibly glad to know that it gets better. I know that someday pieces will start falling into place, I've just gotta ride it out. If Disney has taught me anything, it's that everything works out in the end.

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's never easy losing a pet. I lost "Gracie" about a year and a half ago. Everyone kept telling me to get another dog but I didn't want it to feel like I was trying to replace her. Fast forward about six months and we did get another dog. It really was the best thing for my children and honestly for myself. While "Eillie" will never replace our first dog we all have enough love in our hearts to spread around. She's such a joy and brings life back into our house.

I wish you the best and I hope your next trip you'll have a very happy belated birthday meal at O'hana.

I know exactly what you mean. I'm so worried about getting a new dog because I'm afraid it won't be the same. I'm happy to hear that your new furry friend has brought joy back into your life!

Thank you!!

I'm so sorry to steal Lia's quote, but this is exactly what I was thinking.
Even on the worst of days, my dog Ange is the only one who can cheer me up! I had the same regrets you did when my very close relative died a few years ago. My dad was visiting her the night before she died and noticed she was extremely weak. She was already on meds so there was really nothing he could do. Her nursing home was, of course, oblivious to her pain, and unfortunately early the next morning she suffered a heart attack and later passed. Something inside of me always says, "why didn't you just drive a mile down the road and say your last good-bye" but then I always respond with "that was her fate-God wanted me to remember her in a good way."

Again, I'm so sorry. You will get through it. You will gain success in your amazing career and have a happy family.

I'm sorry to hear about your relative. When my grandfather was dying from cancer, he didn't let my cousins and I come visit because he wanted us to remember him as healthy and happy. I've never really thought about it like that before, but Riley must have felt the same way.

 

[lauren_elizabeth]

Hey girl! I just read your trip report from the start to your latest update and I am loving it

The pool at CSR looks so inviting and fun! Now I want to stay there just to go swimming!

Yay for turning 21... AND being at Disney World to celebrate!!

I am so sorry to hear about Riley

 

[__disneygirl]

Thank you all so much for the sweet comments! They really do mean a lot to me.

Aw I love you too! I go back and forth as to how much I believe in fate, destiny, and all that jazz, but I really do think we were meant to know each other. Like you said, our similarities are uncanny. And not just in a 'We're the same age and we both have unhealthy obsessions with 30 Rock' kind of way. For whatever reason, when I'm at my most anxious/depressed, I tend to lather on the "I'm the only person in the whole wide world who has ever felt like this and nobody could possibly understand what I'm going through and sometimes everything is just the worst, Kenneth" thoughts thick, so knowing that I'm not that much of an anomaly at all is incredibly reassuring.

I'm slowly starting to break out of my funk, but I think that my July trip will provide the closure I've been searching for. If everything works out, we'll be arriving at WDW on July 6th, exactly one year after losing Riley. I want to use the next six months to regain some semblance of normalcy. Then, when the Disney magic washes over me, I'll be able to let go and move on. I'm only 21. I have my whole life ahead of me. I'm not going to be sad forever.

I really hope that you (and Jess and Kristen) can be there! It would be the most fun ever.

You think I'm an absolutely gigando name in entertainment? I think that's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.

Aww, I think we were meant to know each other too! I think you will definitely get what you are looking for from Disney and more. I feel that way after having just been there, like I got refreshed and I can just start over.

I want to go in July SO BAD. I already have the whole thing priced out. Do you know where you are staying? I obv should just go with a value, but I'm suddenly obsessed with POFQ. I like how I have no idea if I can even go and I'm like hmm, should I splurge for the more expensive resort? Oh, Disney.

And YES you are. It's Planet Hollywood, AMC Theatres, and you... you being the MOST gigando.

 

[cindianne320]

Oh, Kara. I am so sorry. My heart just breaks that you had to go through losing Riley from so far away. Pets are so special, and can never be replaced. I am hoping you are healing, and I can't wait to hear about your July trip and Ohana.

 

[PlutosRHM55]

First and foremost, I have to say I'm SUPER sorry I haven't commented on your TR in awhile. With school and everything DISTime has plummeted and now I'm nearing the end of my vacation I finally have time to catch up on all the amazing TRs and I gotta say I really enjoyed catching up on this one. Seriously all these off-tangent little allusions and other shenanigans, I swear we are telepathic or something, I'm pretty sure I think up crazy things like this when I'm in the world, especially things like your little interaction with the Frog Fish... though I think I have those same interactions every day with my Guinea Pig... okay, going off on a tangent again, lemme just comment on the last update...

I think this update deserves a first. I completely understand how you feel. I've grown up with animals my whole life and I'm pretty sure I'm closer to them then people at times. Hearing your story about Riley, just breaks my heart. Disney could never remedy the fact of a pet being ill for me. I'd be optimistic like I am, but I couldn't over the fact. Anyways... I would like to let you know, even though they are gone they are never truly gone. You will always have the memories of all the great times with Riley as Riley will have for you in a much better place for him. Also, I'm sure Riley would hate to see you all upset now so be happy for Riley as I'm sure that's what he would've wanted. I hope this helps ease the pain and that you will always find comfort in your family and friends. Again and some to brighten your day

I wish I had something nicer to transition this comment but I hope you had a lovely Christmas and to have a very Happy New Year!

 

[MarieTheCat24]

HAPPY 2012, DIS FRIENDS!! I hope this new year brings you much happiness, good health, and many Disney trips!

Hey girl! I just read your trip report from the start to your latest update and I am loving it

The pool at CSR looks so inviting and fun! Now I want to stay there just to go swimming!

Yay for turning 21... AND being at Disney World to celebrate!!

I am so sorry to hear about Riley

Welcome! Thanks for joining in!

That's a great way to describe the CSR pool. It is inviting and fun!

Aww, I think we were meant to know each other too! I think you will definitely get what you are looking for from Disney and more. I feel that way after having just been there, like I got refreshed and I can just start over.

I want to go in July SO BAD. I already have the whole thing priced out. Do you know where you are staying? I obv should just go with a value, but I'm suddenly obsessed with POFQ. I like how I have no idea if I can even go and I'm like hmm, should I splurge for the more expensive resort? Oh, Disney.

And YES you are. It's Planet Hollywood, AMC Theatres, and you... you being the MOST gigando.

YAY!! I think we're going to stay at Port Orleans Riverside, so if you do splurge, we'll be close.

Oh, Kara. I am so sorry. My heart just breaks that you had to go through losing Riley from so far away. Pets are so special, and can never be replaced. I am hoping you are healing, and I can't wait to hear about your July trip and Ohana.

Thank you so much! I can't wait to get back to Disney. I am more than ready to have insane amounts of fun again.

First and foremost, I have to say I'm SUPER sorry I haven't commented on your TR in awhile. With school and everything DISTime has plummeted and now I'm nearing the end of my vacation I finally have time to catch up on all the amazing TRs and I gotta say I really enjoyed catching up on this one. Seriously all these off-tangent little allusions and other shenanigans, I swear we are telepathic or something, I'm pretty sure I think up crazy things like this when I'm in the world, especially things like your little interaction with the Frog Fish... though I think I have those same interactions every day with my Guinea Pig... okay, going off on a tangent again, lemme just comment on the last update...

I think this update deserves a first. I completely understand how you feel. I've grown up with animals my whole life and I'm pretty sure I'm closer to them then people at times. Hearing your story about Riley, just breaks my heart. Disney could never remedy the fact of a pet being ill for me. I'd be optimistic like I am, but I couldn't over the fact. Anyways... I would like to let you know, even though they are gone they are never truly gone. You will always have the memories of all the great times with Riley as Riley will have for you in a much better place for him. Also, I'm sure Riley would hate to see you all upset now so be happy for Riley as I'm sure that's what he would've wanted. I hope this helps ease the pain and that you will always find comfort in your family and friends. Again and some to brighten your day

I wish I had something nicer to transition this comment but I hope you had a lovely Christmas and to have a very Happy New Year!

I totally understand. Life can get pretty hectic sometimes.

Exactly. He might be gone physically, but he's never truly gone. That's a great way to look at it.

I hope you had a wonderful holiday season as well!!!

 

[JessicaFaye508]

Oh my gosh. Kara I just want to hug you. I am really, sincerely sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine what you went through, but girl you really are strong. Losing a pet, especially one that you are incredibly close to, is incomparable to any other situation.

But you know what? You are so blessed to have those memories. You are so lucky that you were able to connect with your dog like that. Having something that special is really such a gift in life, and it's always important to remember that Riley loves you very, very much! And he always will!

I'm so sorry you haven't been feeling yourself, don't know what you want to do in life, and have to wait months for Disney. But trust me, everything is going to fall into place. I promise you. Someday everything is going to click and you're going to realize what you need to be doing and why everything worked out in a specific way. And know that you always have friends here that will have your back and support you through anything.

And going to Disney after all this time is going to be incredible. A good old trip to the happiest place on earth! It's time to make some memories. It's time to watch some Stacey. It's time to eat some ohana food. And it's time to see your most favorite frumps who are going to give you the biggest hugs EVER!!! And we're going to devour that kitchen sink! Just bet on it.

Everything is going to turn out fine. I just know it will. College is a sucky time, and I am really figuring that out. But it's the stepping stone to life and we have to go through it. But there are so many opportunities, something is bound to make sense eventually. You are such a great person, and great people deserve all of the best. I know it's hard to think of now, but you will be okay. You really will! And Riley will always be with you in your heart, and nothing can ever take that away from you!

I love you, girly! Thank you for sharing your story with us, and I really hope that everything turns around for you. I'm sure it will!

And PS I love your Ohana song. You really should get it copyrighted. Because that is FANTASTIC.

 

[MarieTheCat24]

Oh my gosh. Kara I just want to hug you. I am really, sincerely sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine what you went through, but girl you really are strong. Losing a pet, especially one that you are incredibly close to, is incomparable to any other situation.

But you know what? You are so blessed to have those memories. You are so lucky that you were able to connect with your dog like that. Having something that special is really such a gift in life, and it's always important to remember that Riley loves you very, very much! And he always will!

I'm so sorry you haven't been feeling yourself, don't know what you want to do in life, and have to wait months for Disney. But trust me, everything is going to fall into place. I promise you. Someday everything is going to click and you're going to realize what you need to be doing and why everything worked out in a specific way. And know that you always have friends here that will have your back and support you through anything.

And going to Disney after all this time is going to be incredible. A good old trip to the happiest place on earth! It's time to make some memories. It's time to watch some Stacey. It's time to eat some ohana food. And it's time to see your most favorite frumps who are going to give you the biggest hugs EVER!!! And we're going to devour that kitchen sink! Just bet on it.

Everything is going to turn out fine. I just know it will. College is a sucky time, and I am really figuring that out. But it's the stepping stone to life and we have to go through it. But there are so many opportunities, something is bound to make sense eventually. You are such a great person, and great people deserve all of the best. I know it's hard to think of now, but you will be okay. You really will! And Riley will always be with you in your heart, and nothing can ever take that away from you!

I love you, girly! Thank you for sharing your story with us, and I really hope that everything turns around for you. I'm sure it will!

And PS I love your Ohana song. You really should get it copyrighted. Because that is FANTASTIC.

Thanks, Jess! You are too sweet!!

The funny thing is that the disaster that my life has become is starting to push me towards a career in mental health counseling. Because I know firsthand just how miserable mental illness can be, I feel like I'd be able to get through to patients in ways that other psychiatrists/counselors cannot. I have always felt that I'm supposed to do something important with my life, so maybe this is it. Maybe everything I've gone through hasn't been for nothing.

Aw, I can't wait for frumpy hugs! And the Kitchen Sink!

 

[MarieTheCat24]

JULY 6TH PART ONE: You're clear to break plates! Sir, yes, sir!
After a rough night’s sleep, I awoke at the crack of dawn (aka my usual 7 AM) feeling incredibly overwhelmed. There was a large part of me that wanted nothing more than to curl up in the fetal position and cry all day. However, I knew that I’d regret not trying to have at least a little bit of fun, so to the shower I went.

Katie and Wade were up EARLY and left for Hollywood Studios at 7:30. They were the first people at their turnstile. I was so proud.

Dad’s Magical Express pickup was scheduled for 9:15, so Mom and I stayed back with him. We were INCREDIBLY grateful that Dad was able to snag a spot less than 24 hours in advance. It saved us what, I’m assuming, would have been a ridiculously high cab fee or Mom having to waste her entire morning driving him to MCO. So, thanks, Disney!

Once Dad was off to the airport, Mom met me back in the room (I was too lazy to walk with them to El Centro) and we headed out to catch a bus to Hollywood. We didn’t have to wait long at all and were passing through the turnstiles at 10:00 AM.

Here are a few pictures I took as we walked from where the bus dropped us off:

The Hollywood Tower Hotel! It looks totally normal and not at all like the kind of place where bad things happen. I bet the employees are perfectly friendly and the elevators are in tip-top shape.

Palm trees! Pink trees! Snazzy vending machines!

I grabbed a park map and Times Guide because, even though I’ve known my way around the World since I was four, it’s habit. Also, they make excellent fans. Keep that in mind, summer travelers.

We saw a random film crew set up on Hollywood Blvd.

I have no idea if this was a real film crew or theming, but they were there.

The hat! Which was awkwardly blocked by that random rigging. Since *NSYNC was not waiting in the wings to film another Disney Channel concert special, it served no purpose and should have been taken down immediately.

We met up with Katie and Wade at Toy Story Mania. Because Katie is the most awesome sister ever and knows me well, they grabbed a set of FP for us in the earlier melee before riding themselves (and then getting awesome temporary tattoos from a little stand somewhere). Our Fastpasses were already usable, so we got another set before splitting back up. Katie and Wade headed to the Tower of Terror and Mom and I jumped in the FP line.

I love Toy Story Mania. I can say with certainty that it’s my favorite ride in all of WDW. Sorry, Space Mountain and Jungle Cruise. Though I can also say with certainty that I would like nothing more in life than to be a Skipper, so you’re still very important to me, Jungle Cruise. There will always be a place for the majestic Backside of Water in my heart.

Anyway, back to Toy Story.

Think of the most fun you’ve ever had. Now, multiply that by 20. That’s how much fun I have on TSM. There’s nothing better than laughing hysterically as I pull the gun like a maniac while my favorite toys shout out instructions/encouragement and “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” plays in the background.

YOU’RE CLEAR TO BREAK PLATES! SIR, YES, SIR!

LAUNCH YOUR RINGS TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!

KEEP SHOOTIN’, BUCKAROOS!

It’s perfect.

Unfortunately, it’s also perfect for A LOT of other people, so I can’t just ride it over and over all day. Bummer.

Here’s an idea, Disney. How about instead of 24 hours in the Magic Kingdom, you offer 24 hours on TSM? Just bring me a Mickey Rice Krispy Treat every few hours and I’ll be fine.

These people weren’t happy enough. The proper way to board a TSM ride vehicle is to flail your arms wildly, jump up and down, and squeal as you sprint into your seat. Standing there all nonchalantly just doesn’t cut it. It’s Toy Story Mania not Toy Story Mild Enthusiasm.

Here’s a blurry picture of our scores:

Mine is the one on the right, obviously. It’s not my best, but it’s not too bad. I’m determined to break 200,000 this summer. I told my dad he needs to create some sort of pull-string contraption so I can build up my arm strength. I have weak arms. I’d probably do better if I was pulling with my toes, but I think that would sufficiently creep everyone else out, so arm strength it is!

After our ride, Mom and I decided to head to Starring Rolls.

Well, I demanded we head to Starring Rolls.

After lusting for months over pictures of the cupcakes online, I was determined to finally try one for myself.

We got a bit sidetracked, though, as some of my favorite characters were out for meet and greets in their finest Hollywood garb. They had minimal lines, so we just couldn’t resist.

Here I am with Chip and Dale:

Dale and I aren’t looking at the camera, but I’m too lazy to scan the much better Photopass picture we bought. Just pretend we’re looking in the right direction. Or focus on how awesome they look in their little fedoras.

Look, it’s the hat from a weird angle! So exciting!

Here I am with my girl, Minnie!

She has the best clothes. And gives really good hugs. And I feel tall-ish when I stand next to her. All qualities I look for in a friend.

After Minnie, I was back in my Cupcake. Stomach. Now. zone so we headed that way.

Wait. We stopped to take these first.

Mom loves these guys. Frankly, I’m surprised they haven’t yet popped up in our backyard.

But I’m sure you don’t care about my parents’ fondness for gardening and lawn ornamentation. You want to hear about the cupcake, so without further ado…

THE RED VELVET CHEESECAKE CUPCAKE!!!

Do you hear the choir of angels? It’s included in the price.

This cupcake is one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. It’s served cold which is perfect for me as I don’t really enjoy room temperature cake. I much prefer cake that has been sitting in the fridge for a while. Also, that gross, super sweet frosting that’s popular on cupcakes is replaced with cheesecakey goodness.

It was DELICIOUS. And I miss it. A lot.

I made Red Velvet cookies topped with cream cheese frosting and crumbled Heath bar for Christmas attempting to fill the void this cupcake left, but it really just made me long for one even more.

Why is it not July yet?

UP NEXT: We sing Aerosmith songs and become animators

 

[foodrocksluver]

Though I can also say with certainty that I would like nothing more in life than to be a Skipper, so you’re still very important to me, Jungle Cruise. There will always be a place for the majestic Backside of Water in my heart.

This is so funny. When my boyfriend and I went out for the first time he said to me, "If you could do anything, what would it be?" And without even thinking I blurted out, "Become a Jungle Cruise Skipper of course!"

Kindred spirits, you and me.

 

[Grumpy's Wife]

I so want that cupcake! The butterfinger one that keeps popping up in trip reports is also on my list to try. I just hope they are really as good as they look.

 

[lauren_elizabeth]

I'm sorry you were still feeling down that morning, but I'm glad your dad was able to get a flight home so fast!

MGM... Hollywood Studios! That Tower Hotel picture makes me want to go ride Tower of Terror right this instant. Gosh, I miss that ride.

I absolutely LOVE your enthusiasm for Toy Story Mania... and the way you enter your ride vehicle! That's the only way to do it!

Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh. That CUPCAKE! Heaven on a plate. Absolutely delicious. Yummmmmmmmmm!

 

[danimaroo]

Okay, I just HAVE to reply. Number one, I love your writing style; I've been lurking this TR forever and I just finally decided I have to say hi and stuff. But um, yes, I love all of your references to random dorky things that I totally GET.

Number two, I'm so sorry about your dog. That is literally a nightmare to me and I have two dogs who I love very very much that I have a hard time thinking about life without them... I'm just really sorry and I can't even imagine the pain you've gone through/are going through. Just hang in there, things will get better over time. (I know everyone else has said similar things but I just had to chime in, because, yeah..)

Number three, I AM SO EXCITED FOR THE RED VELVET CUPCAKE, TOO! I am going to Disney World in 2 weeks yay and this is seriously one of the top items on my list. I LOVE red velvet cake, I LOVE cupcakes (yes, we had cupcakes at our wedding with Wall-E and Eve as our cake toppers), soooo basically I am going to run and take out whoever I have to upon entering HS so I can have my cupcake. (And yes, I just pictured me taking out some lady on a scooter and some poor little kid, and I may/may not have just laughed. A lot. Does that make me a bad person?)

Anyway, I just wanted to say I've read this ENTIRE TR (more like I played catch up and stuff) and wanted to say hi and let you know how much I've enjoyed following along, through the ups and the downs.

 

[tinkerbellandeeyor]

I am so sry about ur dog and sry ur dad had to miss the rest of the trip