May 2011: The Year of Surprises! [TR]

[pinkxray]

Wow, Pirate's League looks amazing! DD would have loved to do the mermaid make over. I have never looked into the PL b/c I have seen some of the kids that have all the paint all over their face and knew Caitlin would not like that.

I hope they decide to keep the mermaid option. I think they will get a lot more girls that way. Your DD looks beautiful and I love the gift bag she got.

I don't get the shattered top coat stuff either. Why do I want my nails to look chipped?

 

[Lidian]

I've seen a couple of TR's with The Pirate League and EVERYONE has raved about it. The kids look great and what a fun experience. And what a great mom and dad!

Thanks Kathy! We all had a blast! Well, DH was bored, I think he nodded off once or twice. But he didn't immerse himself into the experience like I did!

Wow, Pirate's League looks amazing! DD would have loved to do the mermaid make over. I have never looked into the PL b/c I have seen some of the kids that have all the paint all over their face and knew Caitlin would not like that.

I hope they decide to keep the mermaid option. I think they will get a lot more girls that way. Your DD looks beautiful and I love the gift bag she got.

I don't get the shattered top coat stuff either. Why do I want my nails to look chipped?

When you say "paint all over their face" ... that's exactly what happened ... later. But the girls is more makeup than paint. But if she wanted the skeleton look or something.... Yeah, that's paint, and it does smear when touched.

I agree, I think having just one option for a girl isn't so much fun. Perhaps they'll see the girls are preferring the mermaid look? And they may even pick up some BBB girls.

Speaking of BBB, I saw another girl come in and she did BBB that morning. Why not do TPL on another day? Just kind of seemed like a waste to not run with the same look all day. But that's just be.

I think they shoudl have just used a glitter top coat - since Shatter has glitter in it. I don't get it at all ... but I don't make the decisions.

 

[lbuzz52]

Well, honestly, I don't know. It seems to work differently about every day. When it works the way I like it best, it takes me to the first post that I haven't read. But I've had it skip multiple posts before when I click it. And what really gets me is when I scroll back up (I always scroll up or page back to make sure I'm caught up), half of the time, it indicates the post(s) above the one it took me to are new as well.

And I go from desktop to laptop to phone as well (all in one day sometimes), but it still doesn't affect it. I still have the same issues even if I just use my desktop all the time (for instance, still same issues and have only been here on desktop the past week).

So ... I dunno. But I hate that I can't trust clicking it, and have to scroll up or click previous page.

I'm irritated by this- at least when i'm on my phone. i open a thread, try to remember what page number i might have been on, guess wrong, guess wrong again, etc. its not a quick loading thing as it it. glad to hear its not just me though.

To
Lol, sounds like your dh was looking for long attractions in the air conditioning! Tiki room, IASM, Philharmagic, yep, long and air conditioning!

this made me laugh

DS picked Multi-eyed Jack. The Pirate asks if he can keep his eyes closed and be still long enough for them to paint his eyelids. He states he doesn't want paint on his eyes. (At this point, he's a bit confused.) The Pirate says that he'll have to choose another design. DS didn't want any other designs, he wanted the Multi-eyed Jack. So I tell the Pirate we'll do the MEJ look, but without the paint on his eyes. I was then informed that we'd HAVE to take another look if he wasn't going to allow them to paint his eyelids. Seriously? So DS burst into tears. He didn't want paint on his eyes and he didn't want any of the other looks. I told the Pirate to put him down for Captain Hook instead.


you can sure tell when people haven't been around kids. what a butt!

DD is excited, because she's next and it looked like fun to spin the wheel and then check the book! Pirate Lonnie explains to her that her name is THE perfect mermaid name and sits her down. He then proceeds to tell her a story. I couldn't hear any of it, as he was focused on her, and acting like it was a secret. They were whispering. (Sure, I could have moved closer and could have heard, but I was too busy watching the kids to think about things like moving, and my camera.)

so what is the naming process?


I asked him why he didn't get permission from me for a tattoo. Pirate Jenn chimed in that he's a pirate now and doesn't need his mommy's permission. lol DS loved it!


great, just what a 5 year old needs to hear


Pirate Sara painted DD's nails with Mermaid Tears. (That is the actual name of the color, made by OPI. And she got to keep the full sized bottle of it.)

Maya would love this!


Pirate Jenn had just finished the outlines for DS's face and moved on to the paint. The paintbrush tickled, so I helped remind him to be still so she didn't "scribble-scrabble" on his face. (It's what the PK teacher referred to as coloring poorly and/or outside of the lines.)

ours too calls it scribble scrabble

]

I turn to check on DD. She's having her eyeshadow applied. She was so quiet, and so still. I was amazed!

this is amazing!


Isn't it stunning?? I asked her how they applied the scales, and DD said that Pirate Sara had a little tool and used a cotton ball over top of the tool. (I'm guessing stencil was applied and a cotton ball with eyeshadow was run across the stencil.)

- continued in next post -​

- continued from previous post -​

The entire time she was doing the oath, the phrases to repeat were real short. Then she came into one stretch where she began to speak as quickly as she could for several minutes. DS just stared at her. So she said, "I'm sorry, did I say it too slow?" DS raised a brow at her and then responded. "Yes." She burst into laughter and finished the oath with him. I absolutely ADORED how well Pirate Jenn did with DS. After he was sworn in, she spun his chair around for all to see, yelled: "ARGH! YO HO! We have a new pirate! I now present Johnny Bilgerat!" Everyone cheered and DS felt adored.


This sounds really fun! and Jenn seems like a great CM!

ARRGGHH!


there was a Pirate Photopass photographer. I don't remember his name, but he was amazing with the kids! He talked to both kids and let them explore

i think this sounds great. i like that they take them afterwards. i felt like the PP process at BBB was a bit chaotic.

They also told us about the Pirate Parade.

how fun! where does this go?

i'll be back, i missed clicking on the patty post

 

[lbuzz52]

I open my eyes. One open ... wait a minute. UGH! Okay, so now my right eye is completely matted shut. It won't open at all. (Yes, gross, I know.) I hobble out of bed and grab a washcloth and soak it in hot water. Finally, my eye opens. It's still pretty red, and seriously has the same look as pink eye. (For the record, it is not pink eye. Just to be clear. )

Yuck! i hope it cleared up quickly!

She asked "Who here likes to walk?" Very few people chimed in. "You're on the wrong vacation!" "If you're having a good day, say YEA-YUH!" She was loaded with information. She said if you're ever late for an ADR, blame your bus driver. If they ask who it is, tell them you can't remember, or if you do, you'd only know their first name. She said there was 7 Patty's, so we could blame her. Most of the tips she gave, any good DISer already knew, but it was nice to hear someone spread them! She said she'd unload us as close to the gate as she possibly could without her getting into too much trouble. And then she said if anyone is going to ____(I forgot)____ for breakfast, to sit tight, it was her next stop. I've never heard a driver offer to take guests to the next stop with them. I think she said WCC, but I truly don't recall. She unloaded us soo close to the front, so we didn't have much of a walk to the gate.


She did the same for us! and oddly enough, the tip to blame an ADR on the bus driver is the one that stood out to me too! she offered to take others along to her next stop. She also was the only one who dropped us off at the front stop. i think buses should be able to drop off at the closest available bay.

yeah-ya


DH suggested we watch the Tiki Room show. I asked him if he ever listens to me when I talk about the parks. (Apparently not, since I told him several times what rides would be closed.) !

Are we married to the same guy? I get tired of hearing "you nevr told me that" or "well, you should know better than to tell me something while the tv is on!" lately, he's been coming home and talking about work for an hour or more straight. the other night I finally broke in and asked him something about our trip to clairfy my report notes, and he actually rolled his eyes at me!


oh- what are the prices at the pirates league?

 

[lovethattink]

The pirate league pics look so fun!! Your dd was explaining all about the nail polish to me and I was clueless. After the pics, I understand about the shatter polish she was telling me about. She probably thought I was pretty dumb, not "getting" it. She was very proud of her loot in the bag!

I'm so glad you went into so much detail about the transformation! I think Anakin would like to do this some time! And your report makes it very helpful for me to explain the process to him ahead of time. But there is no way I could share the spoiler with him!

 

[Lidian]

I'm irritated by this- at least when i'm on my phone. i open a thread, try to remember what page number i might have been on, guess wrong, guess wrong again, etc. its not a quick loading thing as it it. glad to hear its not just me though.

No, definitely not just you.

this made me laugh

The sad part is, it's probably very true.

you can sure tell when people haven't been around kids. what a butt!

I don't know if he was a jerk or if he was playing his character too well.

so what is the naming process?

OH! Silly me kept typing and forgot to explain it. Well, they have a treasure chest box with a wheel (like a pirate steering wheel). DS got to spin the wheel (and thus the treasure chest) several times. Pirate Lonnie kept cheering him on! "Spin it again!" DS loved spinning the wheel. It wasn't a real easy task for him, as it was kind of heavy. But he had a blast being cheered on and feeling strong for spinning it. (He spun it about 4 or 5 times.)

Once he was done spinning the wheel/box (think of it like Bingo - you turn the crank and it mixes up the letter balls in the basket), Pirate Lonnie took the "lock" off the treasure chest and reached in. There were two large dies (dice? dies? which is the plural for dice?) inside. He laid them on the table, pulled out this massive book and asked DS the month he was born (March). He turned to a page labeled March and checked the dice and offered him a choice of two names. I don't recall the other one.

great, just what a 5 year old needs to hear

I know, right? Every 5 year old needs to be told they don't need to listen to mommy anymore. Thankfully she was just being in character and didn't seriously mean it. But he totally got a kick out of it, especially when I acted devastated he got a tattoo.

this is amazing!

Isn't it? I'm not biased at all!

This sounds really fun! and Jenn seems like a great CM!

Both Jenn and Sara were great! But Jenn really put on a wonderful show! I have never seen DS so animated!!

i think this sounds great. i like that they take them afterwards. i felt like the PP process at BBB was a bit chaotic.

I wish they had gunners at TPL, to be honest. And not just in the secret room and outside ... I would have loved to see tons of pics someone else took of my kids. Plus, I was struggling to keep up with both of them.

I guess since they didn't have gunners, the ones they did have were more relaxed and laid back. It's great when you meet CMs who truly love their jobs ... and some of those Pirates.... they LOVE their jobs!

how fun! where does this go?

They just parade around outside of TPL and PotC attraction. It also leads up to the last Pirate Tutorial of the day. I think its supposed to be like the BBB Princess Parade they do at DTD.

i'll be back, i missed clicking on the patty post

I'm not going anywhere.

Are we married to the same guy? I get tired of hearing "you nevr told me that" or "well, you should know better than to tell me something while the tv is on!" lately, he's been coming home and talking about work for an hour or more straight. the other night I finally broke in and asked him something about our trip to clairfy my report notes, and he actually rolled his eyes at me!


oh- what are the prices at the pirates league?

Well, if we're married to the same guy, you can keep him tonight. He's in the doghouse. (He's not really in the doghouse, I just like to claim he is. lol)

He was really mad at me last year for not telling him that M*V3D was under refurb - even though I stressed it over and over and over since I knew it was one of his Must-Dos! DH doesn't watch much TV, but he does play games. But I always approach him and ask, "Do you have time to listen?" If he says yes, then gloves are off! I did find that he's talked about our trip quite a bit. He's even talked about it at work. But everytime I mention next year, he's all "But I don't wanna go back!" I think I'm slowly wearing him down.

The prices were really fair! It was about $30 per kid, plus $15 for the printed picture (and if you buy the print, you can have it added to your PP CD as well).

Okay, I'll spill ... we paid about $103 for both kids, both pictures, a hook, and DD's nail polish. Costumes can be purchased in their shop, but they were really expensive. I know some people brought their own from home.

The pirate league pics look so fun!! Your dd was explaining all about the nail polish to me and I was clueless. After the pics, I understand about the shatter polish she was telling me about. She probably thought I was pretty dumb, not "getting" it. She was very proud of her loot in the bag!

I'm so glad you went into so much detail about the transformation! I think Anakin would like to do this some time! And your report makes it very helpful for me to explain the process to him ahead of time. But there is no way I could share the spoiler with him!

The Shatter polish is hard to explain. She didn't think you were clueless at all. She was VERY proud of her loot!

I'm glad that you found my posts useful. Feel free to show Anakin the pictures and parts of the thread if he needs to understand the process a bit better with visuals. And totally don't share the secrets! They were so much fun for the kids! I was glad I didn't know about them either! All I knew ahead of time was that no cameras were allowed in the Treasure Room.

 

[PixieMama]

TPL looks like so much fun! My DDs loved POTC 4 and would love to do this... but it's not around for very long, right?

 

[Lidian]

TPL looks like so much fun! My DDs loved POTC 4 and would love to do this... but it's not around for very long, right?

It was a blast! If they want to do it, then go for the Emporess look! They'll look like the girl ... ugh, what's her name? I even asked a CM what the new girl pirate from the movie was named. Angelica? Does that sound right? I saw a girl getting her pic taken with her after her TPL experience and it as adorable!

I think the Official TPL thread said that it was only there for like 6-8 weeks or something and the CM confirmed in the thread that they were still on target. They ordered limited supplies. But that doesn't mean someone in the big chair doesn't see $$$ and decide it would be profitable to keep around. I'd recommend watching the thread if you're interested.

And if you guys do TPL, I'll totally be looking forward to hearing about your experience!!!

 

[dtr_angel]

Great update! TPL looks like so much fun! I can't believe how grown up your DD looked with that makeup on. I want to be a mermaid now!!! Your DS looked so cute as captain hook, but I don't blame him for being skeptical on what they were going to do to him LOL. I'm sorry he cried, but it looks like Pirate Jenn totally made up for it! I've seen that crackle nail polish and now I really want some. I had no luck just now finding it online, I wonder where they sell it at. I just got a pedicure and didn't see the POTC OPI collection, or the new Justin Bieber collection LOL.

 

[PixieMama]

I think the Official TPL thread said that it was only there for like 6-8 weeks or something and the CM confirmed in the thread that they were still on target. They ordered limited supplies. But that doesn't mean someone in the big chair doesn't see $$$ and decide it would be profitable to keep around. I'd recommend watching the thread if you're interested.

And if you guys do TPL, I'll totally be looking forward to hearing about your experience!!!

Ah, well... we don't plan on having another family trip until 2013! Which is a little further than 6-8 weeks away, LOL!

 

[Lidian]

Great update! TPL looks like so much fun! I can't believe how grown up your DD looked with that makeup on. I want to be a mermaid now!!! Your DS looked so cute as captain hook, but I don't blame him for being skeptical on what they were going to do to him LOL. I'm sorry he cried, but it looks like Pirate Jenn totally made up for it! I've seen that crackle nail polish and now I really want some. I had no luck just now finding it online, I wonder where they sell it at. I just got a pedicure and didn't see the POTC OPI collection, or the new Justin Bieber collection LOL.

I was impressed, shocked, and a bit scared to see DD looking all grown up! It really made me realize she IS growing up!

I totally would go back and do the Mermaid look in a heartbeat!

DS was a big scaredy-cat this trip. He balked up at EVERYTHING we did. We had to convince him to ride stuff that was mild. (There's a big outbreak over a ride later in the week.) So having to really reinforce that there was nothing scary got him through the makeover. Jenn was just amazing with him!!! Honestly, if we went back, I'd hope that Jenn was there and would take care of DS next time.

I googled the OPI PotC nail polish and it seems Amazon (and other places) have it online for purchase. I can't imagine any of my local salons stocking PotC polish either - but they do stock OPI. Now I need to schedule a mani/pedi and check.

Wait a minute ...

Did you just say Beiber?

Seriously?

 

[dtr_angel]

I was impressed, shocked, and a bit scared to see DD looking all grown up! It really made me realize she IS growing up!

I totally would go back and do the Mermaid look in a heartbeat!

DS was a big scaredy-cat this trip. He balked up at EVERYTHING we did. We had to convince him to ride stuff that was mild. (There's a big outbreak over a ride later in the week.) So having to really reinforce that there was nothing scary got him through the makeover. Jenn was just amazing with him!!! Honestly, if we went back, I'd hope that Jenn was there and would take care of DS next time.

I googled the OPI PotC nail polish and it seems Amazon (and other places) have it online for purchase. I can't imagine any of my local salons stocking PotC polish either - but they do stock OPI. Now I need to schedule a mani/pedi and check.

Wait a minute ...

Did you just say Beiber?

Seriously?

How old is your DD? And your DS? Somewhere along the line either I didn't read it, or I already forgot. Sorry!

Oh no, not a meltdown. I hope it was easily remedied again! It would be really nice to have Pirate Jenn again, since DS liked her so much. Do you have another trip in the works?

I did see it on amazon, but none of it is prime eligible since it's sold by merchants other than amazon. I guess I might have to suck it up and pay for shipping, LOL. I didn't say Bieber, I don't know what you are talking about.







No for real, there is a Bieber collection
http://www.nicolebyopi.com/collection/one-less-lonely-girl-collection

 

[Lidian]

How old is your DD? And your DS? Somewhere along the line either I didn't read it, or I already forgot. Sorry!

Oh no, not a meltdown. I hope it was easily remedied again! It would be really nice to have Pirate Jenn again, since DS liked her so much. Do you have another trip in the works?

I did see it on amazon, but none of it is prime eligible since it's sold by merchants other than amazon. I guess I might have to suck it up and pay for shipping, LOL. I didn't say Bieber, I don't know what you are talking about.

No for real, there is a Bieber collection
http://www.nicolebyopi.com/collection/one-less-lonely-girl-collection

DD9 and DS5.

I think I only mentioned it in our introductions. Oh, hey! It's also in my siggy. Forgot about that.

But guess you'll just have to keep reading to see if it was easily remedied ... and what it was.

We've not scheduled anything official, but I'm hoping for a May 2012 trip. Once we get some things sorted out and I can sit down with dad and pick dates, I'm hoping to get it etched in stone. But I'm planning for May 2012 ... but not sure when.

OH, I didn't look to see if it was Amazon or merchants via Amazon. I just saw it was available through them. I think if its listed on their site, it should be eligible. But they don't let me make the rules.

I actually googled the Bieber collection last night .... the colors that I noticed were too vibrant IMO. But that's just bottle color, which is different than applied. I'm sure the tweens are hysterical over the colors though.

 

[Becc1]

Loved the second part of your TPL experience. I'm definately going to book it for my boys next trip and my DD too if I can convince her

 

[Lidian]

Loved the second part of your TPL experience. I'm definately going to book it for my boys next trip and my DD too if I can convince her

YAY!

Can't wait to hear how much you guys love it!!!

 

[jm106]

the pirates league looks like a great time! Something we want to try next time(whenever that might be) since younger ds was too young. You daughter looked so cute and happy!

 

[Lidian]

the pirates league looks like a great time! Something we want to try next time(whenever that might be) since younger ds was too young. You daughter looked so cute and happy!

It was an amazing time - for both me and the kids!

I highly recommend it to any pirate loving family! They are real strict about the age - because of the makeup they use - it's for children ages 3+. However, if any child wants to go through the experience without the makeup, they do that as well (same price, no discounts for unmade faces).

DD was absolutely proud of her face. It drew lots of attention (which I'll be getting to soon).

 

[Lidian]

We left off with just finishing our amazing Pirate League experience. During our TPL visit, I received a text from lovethattink stating she was checked into Pop and would be heading to MK soon. After we were done, I text her back to see if she had arrived yet. They were on the bus. So we decided to use our Jungle Cruise FPs.

We absolutely love Jungle Cruise - but really, its the CM who makes the experience. We've been lucky and always had super CMs. This year was no exception. I don't remember his name, but he was hilarious. I really do think that he's working to do stand up comedy, because he told jokes the entire time. lol

DS was afraid there would be noise ... and he didn't want to put his hook and sword down. What does he do?

Yep! He sticks the hook and sword into his ears. I kept trying to explain to him that there was nothing to be scared of, but he didn't believe me until we had exited the ride.

We decided to head to Buzz to use our FPs while waiting for Tink. She had arrived and was at the Mickey M&G seeking out sl_underwood. I text her that we were heading to Buzz, but stopping for our very first ever Dole Whips.

I ordered two, so DD and I could split and DH and DS could split. The guy gave us one. Really? But I ordered two. Since he was sooo slow making the first one, I told him to just forget it and we'd all share the one.

DH didn't like it. At all. DS didn't care for it. DD and I thought it was okay ... but really don't see what the hype is about. Sure, it was refreshing, but so is a soda when you're hot.

Tink texts back and we decide to meet at Buzz. We walk across the park and start looking for shady stroller parking nearby. I see strollers, but no Tink and Anakin. I stand there like an idiot, DH is getting frustrated because he's just clueless (since he doesn't listen to me), and decide to text Tink. Next thing I know, her and Anakin are standing in front of us. YAY! My first ever DISmeet!

Anakin was just adorable! Tink offers to use her GAC so we could all ride Buzz at the same time. I ask DH to put the FPs in his pocket, we'd use them later. So he does. Then he pulls them back out and hands them to the CM. Silly man not listening. Again. lol

Tink and I both giggle at clueless DH. If only he was a DISer.

So we all ride Buzz. DD whipped me! I've always done really well at Buzz and TMS compared to the rest of my family. No one has ever come close to my scores. But she beat me! Not by a little, but by a TON!! I think she beat me by like 75,000 points or so. It was insane!

I snapped a pic of the pic they took. It's horrible quality, I know. lol

After Buzz, Tink asks if we want to ride again. Neither of my kids were that interested, so I offered to go on the People Mover. As we were getting into line, a CM stops us and comments on DD's face. He said he was impressed with her makeup, most of the girls he saw looked real scary looking - just like in the movie. I hadn't seen the movie, so he covers his mouth and apologizes. Okay. We get to the top, and the CM splits us up. But again, DH doesn't listen. I was hoping he would take DS in one car, and DD and I would ride with Tink and Anakin so we could visit a bit.

DS had other plans. He wanted to stick with us. So in car 1, it was Tink, DD, DS on one side, Anakin and I on the other. DH was stuck in the car behind us, that another family had climbed into. lol He said they chatted with him and they laughed about him getting kicked out of the family. He really is a good sport and didn't mind in the least that he was left behind. I did feel bad, as I know Tink did as well. But wow, he just doesn't listen. rofl

During our ride on People Mover, after we FINALLY exit Space Mtn, I look over and Anakin was curled up in his seat. Immediately, I start to panic, as I thought something had happened to him. Tink was quick to jump in and explain he doesn't like the dark. (I don't either. It's creepy!) I was afraid he had a seizure or something and was worried that all the excitement of meeting up and being around my kids, had triggered something. I felt better once Tink explained things and he sat back up, perky as could be.

I hadn't rode People Mover since last April, but it really seemed that the time inside Space Mtn was much longer. I even commented on it to Tink. Anyone else felt the same way? Had they changed it?

After the People Mover, Tink and Anakin went their own ways.

I will totally confess. Anakin was absolutely ADORABLE! He was the SWEETEST little boy, and both of my kids were fascinated with him. He was very animated with his speech, and was fun to be around. I really enjoyed meeting him and Tink that evening, even if it wasn't for very long. Hopefully we can meet up again next year!

DD and I decided it was time to use our Space Mtn FPs. DH and DS decided to kill time on the Tomorrowland Speedway. DD and I scamper over to the FP entrance. The CM stopped DD to admire her face, and I asked if it was okay if Mermaids went to space. She said that it should be fine. lol Once in line, I'm walking as quick as my exhausted legs could go through the windy queue (really, why does the FP queue have to be so long?). There was a little girl behind us ... I'll guesstimate her age to be around 6, who kept clipping the back of DD's heels (she was literally on top of DD), I finally pull DD aside to let the little girl pass. This kid ran the entire queue. I'm not so sure why, as she only ran just to wait in line. At first, I thought maybe she was catching up to her party, but that was not the case. She was alone.

So we wait in the short queue for our turn. We board and ride. I remembered it being more fun last year. It seemed more jerky this year than last as well. I recall it bothering my back this year (but no complaints last year).

I looked for our picture, but never could find us ... and I hate making DH wait (like he really needs something else to whine about), so we ran over to Tomorrowland. We had perfect timing, as I saw them crossing the bridge as we were arriving. I waved them over and we decided to go hit up BTMRR.

Earlier, DS had cried when I mentioned us all riding, so I only got FPs for DD and I. DH said that while we rode, he'd get DS a treat. Perfect!

DD and I hop the train. I totally missed all the decorations. I dunno if I wasn't paying attention on the ride or what ... but I never saw the man in the tub or anything. I did put my hands up and scream WEEE the whole time, and DD followed suit. After we got off, I spot DH quickly. DS was on the ground with a frozen lemonade. I ask him for a bit, but he didn't want to share. He almost gives me a taste (he tried to feed me this miniscule bite). DD commented she'd like something, so DH took her to get a treat. I took a few bites of DS's and I was golden. She came back with a soda, so I took a sip of her Sprite. I check the time and it was right at 4pm. Drat, we missed the Pirate Parade and the last Pirate Tutorial.

We decided to head over to Main Street to grab FPs for the Princesses. When I originally read about the FP machines, I was confused with their placement. I didn't think I'd ever find them. However, I spotted them quickly and easily on Sunday, so I knew just were to go. I grabbed our FPs and we decided to do some shopping. Our ADR was for 5:05, so we only had a little bit of time to kill. We wandered through most of the shops on Main Street. I had never been in any of the stores on our past visits, so it was really nice to see them.

I just knew that this was the year I'd find my Mickey ears. The years that just call to me. So I was focused on ears, but was still browsing other things. Of course, everything the kids saw, they wanted. lol

After our quick window shopping trip, I saw a Photopass Photographer. I have NEVER had my picture taken in front of the castle. And was sad that I only had one of the kids. So I stopped him and asked if he would mind taking our picture. He commented that he loved my shirt (I was wearing my Lady & the Tramp shirt - especially for our ADR). He took some pictures and then we made our way over to Tony's Town Square. I originally made the ADR for 6 since our "World of Warcraft" friends were supposed to join us. When I checked in, I told her that it would only be the four of us. She couldn't find our ADR. Finally, she did find it. However, the entire time, she was hateful and snappy. Okay, so you don't like your job. Quit and find something else to do. Really, that's no way to act in the customer service industry.

She gave us a pager and said it was about a 15-20 minute wait. I was a bit perplexed as the dining room was empty, and so was the lobby. But I wasn't about to argue with her. I just sit down and get comfortable when the pager goes off. 15 minutes, eh? Whatever.

We were shown to our seats. Our server was not the friendliest, but he was outstanding in other ways. We never had to ask for a refill. EVER. He could read our minds and knew exactly what we wanted and was on time with bringing it. Don't get me wrong, he wasn't unfriendly, he was just ... I don't know, very serious maybe? He asked for allergy information, and I pointed out DD has an intolerance for milk products.

He took our drink orders, rootbeer for the kids and myself, and a lemonade for DH. DH regretted the lemonade. I offered to swap, as I regretted the root beer (I never drink root beer, not sure why I thought it sounded refreshing). However, DH refused to swap. I think he was being spiteful since I made him get his picture taken. lol

I took pictures of the kids while waiting for our drinks.

Our server came back, and I ordered the NY Strip Steak (medium rare). It came with potatoes and something else.

The potatoes were the best thing on the plate. I ate all of them. The menu said something about Red Wine butter, but if it was supposed to be on the side, it wasn't there. Maybe it was just cooked in it? I dunno. And the green and orange things ... wasn't sure what it was. The orange things were pretty good, but couldn't place it. Maybe carrots? I dunno. Any guesses? The steak was just okay, nothing spectacular. It was just like what I'd get at Texas Roadhouse - which was fine. I did expect it to be seasoned better or something, but it was fine, and I did enjoy the steak. I shared it with DD.

DH had the Braised Lamb Shank with Parmesan Polenta, Chianti Demi-glace, and seasonal Vegetables (broccoli).

He devoured that thing. He offered some to me, but it didn't look appetizing at all.

The kids both had fish.

DD got a fruit cup instead of the yogurt parfait.

We all enjoyed our meals here. Very good food. (Like I said, my steak was good, just wasn't better than what I'd get at Texas Roadhouse, which was a slight disappointment.)

Our newlywed friends dined here earlier in the week. It was the only TS meal they planned. Her favorite movie is Lady & the Tramp. So they shared a plate of spaghetti, Lady & Tramp style. Their pictures are adorable.

Anyway ... after dinner, it was time for dessert.

I had the cheesecake. I don't recall the menu's wording, but it was like a Mocha cheesecake.

I loved how they dusted Lady & the Tramp onto the plate with cocoa! That was just too sweet! At first, I thought that it was etched onto the plate, but when I touched it, the cocoa came off onto my finger and the plate was barren. So it was really neat!.

DH was disappointed in the dessert menu. I know the website said it had a Pistachio Creme Brulee, but it was not offered. He debated between a couple of desserts, and then settled for the Gelato.

We can't remember what flavor it was ... maybe vanilla bean? DH and DS enjoyed it. I didn't try any of it, I was too obsessed with the cheesecake. DD wanted to try it, as she saw me drooling over it. I allowed her a small taste and she loved it as well. DH and the kids ate the coffee beans on the plate. I wasn't aware that they were really "edible". lol

After dinner, DH took DS to wash his face. The black paint was EVERYWHERE. He said it came off easily with the soap in the restroom. I was worried he'd have issues and had been stressing since I forgot makeup remover. (I pulled it out, just didn't get it into the bag.)

DD and I sat on the porch and watched MiSiCi Street Party coming through.

After DH and DS returned, we decided to use our FPs for the Princesses.

We were first greeted by Cinderella who "oohed" and "ahhed" over DD's face.

Then she saw DS and was afraid of the pirate who might kidnap her and DD. DS was proud to announce that he was a friendly pirate and he'd protect Cindy and DD.

Since he was a nice pirate and he'd protect his Princess sister, she hugged him and posed for a picture.

I asked if we could get a family photo as well. Most characters are like "sure, whatever", but she was very happy that I asked and stated she wouldn't have it any other way. She was one of the best Cindy's we encountered!

(So my PP CD will hopefully be here sometime this week and I'll do extra postings of just PP pictures.)

After saying goodbye to Cindy, we met Jasmine! We have never seen Jasmine before (well, we've seen her out, but with long lines). So we felt absolutely lucky! I will confess, she was probably the best Princess interaction we've had (and I thought Cindy was great!). We ended up having a line formed behind us, she spent so much time with the kids.

She loved DD's face! And then she saw a pirate! She played with DS and made sure he was a nice pirate!

After she posed with the kids, I asked if we could get a family one as well. I felt awful for the line of people waiting, but I am NEVER in any photos. She loved that I asked and happily posed with all of us. DH was a bit uncomfortable with the Princesses, but I think he was doubly so with Jasmine due to her wardrobe.

There wasn't a third Princess, but there was a 3rd PP photographer. She asked if we'd like to have a family picture done. I had seen most of the other families keep walking, but I really wanted pictures of me this year. So I thanked her for offering and asked her to get some great ones of us! I think she was just happy that someone took her up on the offer.

After we left the Town Square Theater, we decided to ride the WDW RR. DS absolutely loves trains.

We arrive to the boarding area and the train had just left. We wait for the next one, and DS starts to cry. He doesn't want to ride the run-away train. I explain to him that this isn't really a ride - like BTMRR, this is a REAL train, like Thomas! Only this is Mickey's train. It's not going to run away, it will stay on the track, and its just going to circle around the park.

He finally settles down once the train arrives and he sees that its a real train. We board and everyone is okay. And silly me left my camera in my pocket the entire trip. Grrrr!

We had to stop and refill the water for the train, so we got to stare at the posters for the new circus area that will be coming soon. Why didn't I get a picture of the posters? I don't know. I'm ashamed of myself. And I didn't get pictures of the construction area either.

After we arrive back at Main Street, we ask the kids what they wanted to do. They both wanted to ride Buzz again, but the line was too long. We catch another Monsters Inc show and decided to call it a night. I wanted to add our TPL pictures to our PP cards, so I went looking for a kiosk. I followed the map, but the one I want to didn't exist. I finally stopped a CM and asked for directions. I was totally confused with what he wanted to say. So I tried to follow his directions, but I was at the wrong place. Thankfully, I just had to cross the street.

I get there, ask a CM if I was in the right place and she pointed me to the line. Ugh!!! We stood in line for 30 minutes to get the pictures added. It turned out, the PP guy to assist us was the one who took our pic on Main Street. He asked if I wanted to see the pictures, but I really just wanted to go to bed. I politely declined, said that I trusted he had an amazing shot of us, and explained that I was wore out and had planned to leave the park at least 20 minutes ago. He acted hurt, and I did feel bad, but I really didn't care. Plus, there was nothing I could do at the time anyway ... I wasn't going to order prints that night, and it wasn't like he could retake it if I hated it.

We made our way to the bus station and arrived back at CSR.

This was the only time anything remotely cute was done with the lovies. And really, the Pillow Pet was just wearing a hat.

We all scrubbed up and climbed in bed.

Stayed tuned for the next installment: Does the Crankypants ruin the day?

 

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Your princess interactions sound great, I especially love how Cinderella acted afraid of your DS and that he was going to kidnap her.

 

[jm106]

What fun, i love following along.
We didnt have anything too special in the room either. No wait, We did get a rollled up wash cloth with rubber bands around it and eyes stuck on. Ods looked at it and said What is this? I have no clue. I will say however, Ods had decorated Mousekeeping envelopes, with stickers and glitter glue and day one, he got a nice note of thanks from the mousekeeper