Mommy...Why does Crush talk like you? Final thoughts and summary 10/15

[DisneyJo]

The feet photo is so cute and hilarious that you took it Good idea to know she stayed where she was meant too though

 

[HHBG]

The other side of the story...

Spencer and I got up and going pretty quickly in the morning and headed off. When we got to the bus stop, the buss showed up right away. All in all, it was a pretty smooth start to the day. Our good luck mostly continued - we got to Animal Kingdom in time for the rope drop.

Once we got inside, I managed to guide Spencer into a relatively safe location (standing on a bench). But, pretty soon, the crowds were really pushing hard. Sadly, the teenagers next to us were well behaved, but a couple of 50 year old ladies climbed up on the bench too and started pushing Spencer off. I finally put him on my shoulders. I'm not sure what goes through people's minds during rope drop, but I'm not sure that I recommend bringing kids.

When the park finally opened, it seemed like the entire crowd walked straight to the safari and got into line. It was like being in a sea of spandex wearing lemmings driving motorized wheelchairs and pushing double strollers. Fortunately there was no cliff at the end.

We (and everyone else in the park) started funneling through the super long holding area for the safari. I hadn't actually been through it all before. There are lots of neat touches like airports, travel offices, and stuff. They must open a half-mile of extra line space in the mornings just to accomodate everyone at the rope drop.

A bunch of rowdy teenagers sat next to us. They didn't know any of the animals, so Spencer decided to educate them about each of the animals. Spencer's favorite kind of ride - one with a captive audience. A great time was had by all, and we headed off to Hollywood studios to meet up with the girls.

 

[jordanyosh]

Thanks HHBG for your side of the story. Rope drop.....what's that?

 

[HHBG]

Thanks HHBG for your side of the story. Rope drop.....what's that?

Prior to the park opening in the morning, everyone is lined up behind the gates to go in. This is a lot like a race where there is a rope at the front. At some point, the rope is dropped indicating the start of a race. At Disney, this event looks like the New York Marathon - people sprinting to be first in line on the rides, double strollers careening around corners, crazed parents 'boxing out' other people and forcing them into walls. Not exactly a magical beginning to a relaxing day at the park - but it is kind of interesting in the 'day after christmas' shopping frenzy kind of way.

 

[whogirl'smom]

That's pretty bad when grown-ups are crawling up on benches and knocking little kids off! We got there for rope drop last time, but I don't remember it being that bad--of course we were going toward EE, so maybe that made a difference? Thanks for your side, HHBG!

 

[irene_dsc]

Prior to the park opening in the morning, everyone is lined up behind the gates to go in. This is a lot like a race where there is a rope at the front. At some point, the rope is dropped indicating the start of a race. At Disney, this event looks like the New York Marathon - people sprinting to be first in line on the rides, double strollers careening around corners, crazed parents 'boxing out' other people and forcing them into walls. Not exactly a magical beginning to a relaxing day at the park - but it is kind of interesting in the 'day after christmas' shopping frenzy kind of way.

Heh - we only made one rope drop (MK). I think I'm kinda glad we sort of hung back and didn't actually try to rush. Of course, a lot of that had to do with ds' tantrum after hearing dh say that today was his sister's day. Oops. Said tantrum lasted during the frenzied part of rope drop and was resolved by deciding to split up - and then assuring ds that dh was referring to the surprise dinner with Cinderella that night, not that the entire day was to be spent catering to her.

Anyhow, glad you guys survived rope drop!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I agree with everyone-the feet picture is adorable.

And what the heck is up with no Sweedish Chef and Beaker?! They are my 2 favorites. Followed by the grumpy old guys in the balcony who's names I can never remember.

Do they have anything Sweedish Chef?

 

[lazydoxy66]

The other side of the story...

Spencer and I got up and going pretty quickly in the morning and headed off. When we got to the bus stop, the buss showed up right away. All in all, it was a pretty smooth start to the day. Our good luck mostly continued - we got to Animal Kingdom in time for the rope drop.

Once we got inside, I managed to guide Spencer into a relatively safe location (standing on a bench). But, pretty soon, the crowds were really pushing hard. Sadly, the teenagers next to us were well behaved, but a couple of 50 year old ladies climbed up on the bench too and started pushing Spencer off. I finally put him on my shoulders. I'm not sure what goes through people's minds during rope drop, but I'm not sure that I recommend bringing kids.

When the park finally opened, it seemed like the entire crowd walked straight to the safari and got into line. It was like being in a sea of spandex wearing lemmings driving motorized wheelchairs and pushing double strollers. Fortunately there was no cliff at the end.

We (and everyone else in the park) started funneling through the super long holding area for the safari. I hadn't actually been through it all before. There are lots of neat touches like airports, travel offices, and stuff. They must open a half-mile of extra line space in the mornings just to accomodate everyone at the rope drop.

A bunch of rowdy teenagers sat next to us. They didn't know any of the animals, so Spencer decided to educate them about each of the animals. Spencer's favorite kind of ride - one with a captive audience. A great time was had by all, and we headed off to Hollywood studios to meet up with the girls.

Thanks for sharing this info. I was wondering how bad the line was for the safari after rope drop. When I called to request FD on my package the CM and I were chatting and she told me to make sure I went on the safari first thing. I plan on swinging by EE first to get FPs. Then we'll go stand in line for the safari. Is rope drop pretty crazy at every park??

CC - The feet, the feet. Too adorable!!

 

[heatherlynn444]

so maybe I am a total loser but I just found your TR and read the whole stinkin thing! on a friday night! ya we are boring. (actually DH is sitting behind me on the other computer playing world of warcrack...yes..he shares the addiction...and is a full time law student...go figure)

wanted to make some comments

1.)the pool incident. what the heck? that lifeguard makes me mad...I agree with what I think your DH said. the kids were so used to life vests they thought nothing of jumping in the deep. thats how I almost drowned at age 5, thjought I had my vest on...poor mom jumpe din fully clothed/shoes etc. to save me.

2.)love your writing style and all the great pics, what a fun trip!

3.)we are looking forward to trying flying fish in september, and now I am even more excited! cant wait to hear more!

 

[HeatherSue]

I just love that other parents carry their children over their shoulders when they are throwing a tantrum.

Yet another restaurant that will be crossed off my list...

Poor Brianna, almost getting trampled! What are people thinking, anyway?

The whole ride was in the dark on TOT? I'm not sure what you mean. You mean, you didn't get to see out the little "window type things" when you dropped? If so, how weird!

Oh my gosh, how hilarious are you, taking pictures of Brianna's feet while you're on the toilet?!

I can't believe HHBG and Spencer had the same issues with kids getting trampled at rope drop!

 

[jordanyosh]

 

[brookelizabeth]

Hello?

 

[Hedy]

 

[camelotcats]

Hey guys. Sorry. Life here has been rough. HHBG and I are home with no income right now and living on our savings. he is writing his book and I am trying to find a job, but am not really qualified for much.

I'll update soon. Promise.

 

[ForeverDance]

I hope everything works out for you.

We'll be here when you're ready to update.

 

[irene_dsc]

Been wondering how you are - I hope HHBG's book goes well, etc.

 

[Charleston Princess]

 

[brookelizabeth]

Great to hear from you! I hope HHBG's book goes well and you find a job that is more a joy to do than a JOB.

I'll be here when you are able/ready to update!

 

[KatGarcia]

Hey guys. Sorry. Life here has been rough. HHBG and I are home with no income right now and living on our savings. he is writing his book and I am trying to find a job, but am not really qualified for much.

I'll update soon. Promise.

Hey! Nice to see you !!! You have my # if you need anything!

 

[winkers]

Thanks for checking in! I miss you!

I've been there with the unemployment before, it sucks!