I Told You Driving Was Bad For Your Health! *2/2* NEW TRIP REPORT LINK P102

[IheartDDuck]

I'm still sad for you Mary Ellen. Max held a special place in your heart, and he always will.

Ha! You tried to take the picture. I'm a pansy. I just can't do it!

Yup. Hot hot hot in the Sistine Chapel. And you're not supposed to talk. Sssssshhhhhhh.

Stupid Judy!

I reserve Universe of Energy for very specific reasons.

1) I'm bored
2) I'm melting
3) I'm freezing
4) I'm suffering from aching feet

DOH! The frozen beer, THAT's what I meant to get in July. Man. Just another thing for my list next year. I wouldn't expect it to be sweet, because it's Kirin beer, which is standard beer in Japan. In non-frozen form of course.

 

[MEK]

Thanks for sharing Max's story with us. What a handsome cat and a beautiful friendship. My heart goes out to you

.

Thanks Dee! I can't believe its been a week already. It certainly has been quiet here, but much less stressful. I didn't realize that Max's constant cries for food were starting to get to me. It seemed like no matter what I did he would always want more food. That's just not normal.

I enjoyed your EPCOT update. Love, love, love Space Ship Earth. Great pictures. I had read about the hieroglyphics but never saw the evidence. .

Well, now you have! I really should go back and look for my original picture that I took several years back. I think its such a cool little detail.

I remember Ellen's ride before Ellen. From our first visit to EP in 1983, to a few more trips before our boys came along, my husband and I always visited the Universe of Energy. The dino part of the ride was better, no people and as others have mentioned, great smells- swampy and brimstone..

That version of the ride sounds so very cool. I wish I could have had a chance to see it. I am going to post a cool video I found on it.

But the movie at the end was a real snooze-fest. The addition of Ellen, Bill Nye, Jeopardy and of course, Stupid Judy, is a HUGE improvement.

Stupid Judy is pretty funny and who doesn't love Bill Nye the Science guy? I have to admit, I was never a fan of Ellen but seeing her in this attraction made her much more endearing to me.

I'm still sad for you Mary Ellen. Max held a special place in your heart, and he always will.

Thank you Danielle! Max was such a sweetie. I will always miss him, but he will always have a very special place in my heart.

Ha! You tried to take the picture. I'm a pansy. I just can't do it!

Really? I've only taken the picture twice and both times have been when the ride is not busy. I like to have empty cars behind me when I flash!

Yup. Hot hot hot in the Sistine Chapel. And you're not supposed to talk. Sssssshhhhhhh.

I forgot about the not talking part. As much as I would like to see it those environmental conditions might be more than I can bear.

Stupid Judy!

I reserve Universe of Energy for very specific reasons.

1) I'm bored
2) I'm melting
3) I'm freezing
4) I'm suffering from aching feet

All really great reasons to go say hi to Ellen!

DOH! The frozen beer, THAT's what I meant to get in July. Man. Just another thing for my list next year. I wouldn't expect it to be sweet, because it's Kirin beer, which is standard beer in Japan. In non-frozen form of course.

Darn - well you will just have to try it in June OR in May!

I know it was silly of me to imagine it sweet. There was no basis for that. Overall I really enjoyed it for a different beer experience.

 

[mickeystoontown]

I was behind but, thankfully, I had already offered my condolences on Max's death. You know that your fur baby is in a much better place and is purring and happy and healthy.

On to the happier things, your pictures on Spaceship Earth turned out so good. Mine are always blurry or crappy or both. Mostly both.

Do you not like Ellen's Universe of Energy? I guess because I'm a fan of Ellen DeGeneres, I like it. It cracks me up every time she says Stupid Judy.

Frozen beer? Not so sure that I'd like it because I'm not a beer drinker but I'm thinking that John might want to give it a try.

 

[MEK]

I was behind but, thankfully, I had already offered my condolences on Max's death. You know that your fur baby is in a much better place and is purring and happy and healthy.

Thanks Lisa! He really is in a better place. I can't believe its been a week already. I miss him a lot but I hated how sick he was for the past several months. I guess knew he wasn't long for this world.

On to the happier things, your pictures on Spaceship Earth turned out so good. Mine are always blurry or crappy or both. Mostly both.

Thanks. And stop - don't say that about your pics. You always have the best candid shots. Indoor shots in low light are always a challenge for everyone.

Do you not like Ellen's Universe of Energy? I guess because I'm a fan of Ellen DeGeneres, I like it. It cracks me up every time she says Stupid Judy.

Did I sound like I don't like it? I actually enjoy seeing it about every other trip, but i made that joke about 42 minutes (I think its actually 43) because they say that about 100 times before the ride vehicles load. I do think the ride that Doris described sounds really cool. I would have liked to see the old version.

Frozen beer? Not so sure that I'd like it because I'm not a beer drinker but I'm thinking that John might want to give it a try.

I enjoyed it. The beer is rather light in taste, but the whole concept of frozen foam was a lot of fun.

 

[MEK]

In my last update there were some comments about the hieroglyphics picture I took in SSE. I have a better one that I took about 4 years ago. Here you go:




There was also some discussion about the old Universe of Energy. Thanks to Doris I did a little research.

Here what I found:

Universe of Energy

Here is a Youtube link (short version)


And here is a youtube video long version This video is fascinating. But it is 52 minutes long so only watch it if you have time.

On to the Update: Show Me a Sign

In my last update we were here



while I was enjoying a frozen kirin and Denny was enjoying some other Japanese beer. After Denny fished his beer, and I was down to almost foam, we continued our journey through the world showcase.

Our next stop was France













We stopped to look out at the water.

Backstory - for those who have followed my previous TRs you know that a DISer from our community lost her battle with cancer last December. She was fortunate enough to have an amazing trip just 6 weeks or so prior. France was one of her favorite countries.



As we gazed out over the water I said to Denny, "This was Tracy's favorite spot and I really believe she is here. Come on Tracy. I know you're out there. Give me a sign!".

Nothing.





One last look at France and we continued on.



We were headed here.



If you guessed Rose and Crown, you are correct. For my last several trips I have made ADRs here and I have canceled each and every one. I was bound and determined to eat here this time. No cancellations allowed.

We got a lovely patio seat.



It was fairly empty outside when we sat down.





What a great view



So what did we order?

Well, in keeping with the beer theme I ordered a Boddington's. I love this beer!



I'm not sure what Denny ordered, but I believe he ordered beer as well.

I was craving some greens and this really hit the spot

English Chicory and Watercress Salad - with apples, blue cheese, candied walnuts nuts and Craisins Dried cranberry vinaigrette $7.99




My entree

Rainbow Trout - with green beans, almonds and lemon caper brown butter $18.99



Both choice were SO yummy!

Denny's entree

Slow-cooked Chicken Curry - with vegetables, raita, Basmati rice and pappadam $17.99



Not really sure if Denny had an app. If he did I don't have a picture of it.


Continued In the Next Post

 

[MEK]

Continued From Previous Post

We skipped dessert. I guess we drank too much beer. Lol!

During dinner I decided to text Anita (wigdoutdismom). I knew she and her husband Mark were leaving at the end of the week to go to Vero Beach. On the spur of the moment I thought - hey if they are over at the BC now why not go over and say hi.

Amazingly Anita was there. She had just woken up from a nap but agreed to meet us in the lobby. We decided to walk over to the BC by way of the BW.



When we got right about here Anita texted that they were heading down to the lobby



So we turned around and headed to the lobby.

But here's another close up of the YC first!



And how can one pass up on the opportunity to take a picture of the Boardwalk?



I was looking for a sign. Was this it?



Denny and I met Mark and Anita in the lobby and sat and talked for awhile. They were excited about their upcoming plans to visit Vero Beach with meMom and her crew.

While we were chatting look who came through the lobby.





And this was our FB picture



Getting to see Kathy, Mary, and the girls again was a total bonus.

I glanced at the time and realized it was getting dangerously close to 9pm. Uh Oh! Denny and I had to head back into the park because we were parked at the front. We said good-bye to everyone and walked back to the IG.

I took a few hasty pictures on our way back into the park.



What a perfect night



We may have only done two rides on this day, but we had a seriously perfect Disney day!

People were lined up for Illuminations, but we just kept on walking.





We decided not to stay and watch Illuminations. It started just as we started to head to the front of the park. It was impossible not to look over my soldier for some pictures.







Not your typical Illuminations pictures, but that's what you get.









Further up the path














Continued In Next Post

 

[MEK]

Continued From Previous Post









A last look at the finale





I don't have any more pictures from this evening but here's where something interesting happened.

I was walking happily along. As we approached SSE Denny said, "there's your sign."

"Huh. What?"

"Your sign. Look up there".

I looked straight up and saw a lone white bird flying high. It was over the palm trees, but not quite as high as the top of SSE. It was a medium sized bird and it was flipping over on its back and doing 360's. I had to careen my neck back as far as it would go and spin around to watch the birds path. The bird almost glowed in the light of SSE. It was moving so quickly in a rather erratic pattern. The bird looked happy, if that's possible. Almost like she was showing off.

At the time I remember thinking that this white bird was definitely a sign from Tracy. I was so excited and really impressed that Denny saw "my sign" which I almost missed. I guess I'll never know for sure, but I'll always believe her spirit is alive and well in Epcot.

Coming Up Next - Animal Kingdom and a fated DVC encounter.

 

[Wicket's Mom]

I really like the idea of the white bird. Funny thing, I was thinking about her the other day. I was wondering if it had been a year since she passed.

 

[Moira222]

Funny that you only did two rides because you did have an awesome day at Epcot!

How cool that Denny saw your sign -- it sounds as if watching this bird was something rather unique as well. Very cool.

Nice bonus meetups at the BC and you got some neat shots of Illuminations. Theres one with almost dotted lines of color in the sky & the monorail silhouetted.awesome.

 

[rentayenta]

So special. I remember reading about your friend Tracy and seeing the video. Isn't amazing how this little ole place has brought so many wonderful people together? I believe it was a sign too.



Your Illuminations photos looks like mine. Both times I've had obstructed views. It doesn't help that I'm a shorty.


Rose and Crown is on my must do list. Every trip we mean to try it and it just doesn't work out. I love English food.

 

[teekathepony]

I guess it takes a little time to organize a sign from above
That's a really nice story about the happy white bird in Epcot. I'm sure it was a sign. Glad Denny spotted it.
Rose and Crown looks great! Love the view from the patio, so relaxing.
Very cool that you got to have some expected and unexpected Dismeets!
Your fly-by pics of IllumiNations are really awesome! Man I love that show.

 

[dawnbu40]

I love that your sign was the perfect ending to your wonderful Disney day!

 

[Wood Nymph]

[
If you guessed Rose and Crown, you are correct. For my last several trips I have made ADRs here and I have canceled each and every one. I was bound and determined to eat here this time. No cancellations allowed.

We got a lovely patio seat.
...
So what did we order?

Well, in keeping with the beer theme I ordered a Boddington's. I love this beer!

I was craving some greens and this really hit the spot

English Chicory and Watercress Salad - with apples, blue cheese, candied walnuts nuts and Craisins Dried cranberry vinaigrette $7.99

My DH drinks Boddington beer at home. I didn't realize that they had it at Rose and Crown. I just made an ADR there for our March trip. I would love to sit by the water and eat the English Chicory salad. It looks so relaxing there.

Your story about seeing the sign gave me chills. When I saw your picture of the sky, I thought this was the sign. Maybe Tracy really gave you two signs.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

We got a lovely patio seat.

Wow, that looks like a great spot for a meal.

Well, in keeping with the beer theme I ordered a Boddington's. I love this beer!

Hmm...never tried that one.

And how can one pass up on the opportunity to take a picture of the Boardwalk?

I don't see how that's possible.

While we were chatting look who came through the lobby.

Wow--Mega DIS meet!

We decided not to stay and watch Illuminations. It started just as we started to head to the front of the park. It was impossible not to look over my soldier for some pictures.

That's quite a lot of pictures for not watching the show.

At the time I remember thinking that this white bird was definitely a sign from Tracy. I was so excited and really impressed that Denny saw "my sign" which I almost missed. I guess I'll never know for sure, but I'll always believe her spirit is alive and well in Epcot.

 

[Poolrat]

I don't have any more pictures from this evening but here's where something interesting happened.

I was walking happily along. As we approached SSE Denny said, "there's your sign."

"Huh. What?"

"Your sign. Look up there".

I looked straight up and saw a lone white bird flying high. It was over the palm trees, but not quite as high as the top of SSE. It was a medium sized bird and it was flipping over on its back and doing 360's. I had to careen my neck back as far as it would go and spin around to watch the birds path. The bird almost glowed in the light of SSE. It was moving so quickly in a rather erratic pattern. The bird looked happy, if that's possible. Almost like she was showing off.

At the time I remember thinking that this white bird was definitely a sign from Tracy. I was so excited and really impressed that Denny saw "my sign" which I almost missed. I guess I'll never know for sure, but I'll always believe her spirit is alive and well in Epcot.

Coming Up Next - Animal Kingdom and a fated DVC encounter.

I did get all teary reading this. all caught up and all your EPCOT pictures are get me pumped for Food and Wine.

I may have a shot at the R & C in Oct. with Rosie and the group. Maybe it will work out.

 

[KatMark]

I should not have read your update at the office as I have tears streaming down my cheeks. Denny for finding Mary Ellen's sign. I think it was the perfect sign for Tracy.

It was so fun meeting up with you again (although you could have left the picture out of me with my big mouth open ). And thanks to the guys for taking those pictures for us.

Mark had the exact same entree at Rose & Crown and absolutely loved it.

 

[dizneeat]

Your white bird "sign" just gave me goosebumps! I am a strong believer in those signs.

Love your R&C dinner - they really have nice food. And how nice to run into Mary and Kathy again while having a DISmeet. Doesn't get any better than that.

 

[MEK]

I really like the idea of the white bird. Funny thing, I was thinking about her the other day. I was wondering if it had been a year since she passed.

It was very unexpected and the way the bird was flying was so unusual. It hasn't been a year yet. Rather, she passed away last December. Her last trip to the world was last October.

Funny that you only did two rides because you did have an awesome day at Epcot!

We had an awesome day all the way around. Our way of enjoying a Disney vacation has really morphed over the years. We are really more into the "stop and smell the roses" experiences.

How cool that Denny saw your sign -- it sounds as if watching this bird was something rather unique as well. Very cool.

I'm so glad he saw it because I really would have missed it. It was an unusual sight and it just seemed so out of place. I mean, when do you see a bird that late in the evening - especially one showing off.

Nice bonus meetups at the BC and you got some neat shots of Illuminations. Theres one with almost dotted lines of color in the sky & the monorail silhouetted.awesome.

I was happy we got to meet up with Marc and Anita and it was great to see Kathy, Mary and the girls again. It really was a bonus!

Glad you like my almost "walking backwards" pictures. I do like that one with the color. I didn't expect that to turn out.

So special. I remember reading about your friend Tracy and seeing the video. Isn't amazing how this little ole place has brought so many wonderful people together? I believe it was a sign too.

It really is. I always feel like Disney world is my neighborhood and all my DIS friends are my neighbors. I know that my spirit will be spending time in Epcot after I pass from this world to the next, so it only makes sense that Tracy would.

Your Illuminations photos looks like mine. Both times I've had obstructed views. It doesn't help that I'm a shorty.

Part of me want to stay and try to take "real" pictures, but there really wasn't time to get over to my usual spot in Norway. I figured we had just seen it two nights before so we might as well get a jump on the park exit crowd. But I just couldn't stop turning around and trying to get a few shots.

Rose and Crown is on my must do list. Every trip we mean to try it and it just doesn't work out. I love English food.

I have eaten there twice (both times outside) and I enjoyed it both times. It's a nice atmosphere. The bar area is great. Someday I just want to go and hang out at the bar.

I guess it takes a little time to organize a sign from above

I think you are right! I mean, Tracy could have been hanging out anywhere in this world when I asked he for a sign. She had to stop what she was doing and come to Epcot.

IThat's a really nice story about the happy white bird in Epcot. I'm sure it was a sign. Glad Denny spotted it.

I am too. It's really funny that Denny was open to that. It was a really cool bird. All the motion really distinguished it from your every day garden variety bird!

Rose and Crown looks great! Love the view from the patio, so relaxing.

It's a great spot. I loved it there. Even though we had an early ADR and we weren't staying for Illuminations it was still a perfect night to sit outside.

Very cool that you got to have some expected and unexpected Dismeets!

Anita and Marc were definitely a bonus DIS meet. And it was great to see Kathy and Mary again! Plus Mary's girls are just TOO cute. I always love seeing them.

Your fly-by pics of IllumiNations are really awesome! Man I love that show.

Thanks. It is a GREAT show and almost sacrilegious that we left early. Oh well! We probably won't be walking out during the actual show for awhile.

I love that your sign was the perfect ending to your wonderful Disney day!

It really was and I can't tell you how excited I was when Denny pointed out that bird. I just stopped dead in my tracks. That bird was just crazy with all her flipping around. It was neat.

 

[englishrose47]

We may well be eating at R & C in 13 days !! I have eaten there before and LOVED the food . I do wish they had Bangers and mash on the dinner menu , as that is true british food . The scotch egg is too. Lovely pix of your day, I am thinking an outside table might be very nice !!

 

[Wicket's Mom]

We need to try Rose & Crown again, didn't like it when we dined there. It always sounds good, but I'm still leery about going again.

Our trip this time was really a stop & smell the roses trip also. Made for a more relaxing & fun trip for us, would visit a park, ride a couple of things, then leave.

Your leaving Epcot back shots of Illuminations were spot on, better than a lot of sitting there photos.