Mother/Daughter Fun Trip - September 2010

[catra121]

This is my first attempt at a Disney Trip Report...so please bear with me. I apologize in advance for my wordiness...I can't seem to help myself when it comes to writing. If I can figure out how to post pictures...there will be quite a few of them as I have a ridiculous LOVE of taking photos while on vacation.

Background:

This was a VERY special trip for me and one that I had been looking forward to for YEARS. In September 2008 my parents renewed their wedding vows at Disney World. It was a trip that included my parents (obviously), my brother, my boyfriend, my grandma (for part of the trip), and of course me! That was a sort of strange trip but overall just a wonderful and special experience.

As a family we have been going to Disney since I was a year old (my brother is 10 months younger than me so we are very close in age). We have been probably 20+ times to the World and in all those trips I don't remember there every being a bad vacation. Growing up all of our resort stays were off property except for one trip to the Dolphin when I was very young (and unfortunately don't remember very well). Mostly we stayed at the Marriott World Center because my dad traveled a lot for for (like M-F every week for most of my life) so we had tons of hotel points and those stays at the hotel were always free.

But in 2004 I paid for a vacation for me and my boyfriend to go to Disney in February (it was his Christmas and Birthday present). He's never been and since Disney was such a big part of my life I wanted to share it with him. We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside and this was my first true on property stay in my life. We did the magical express and used resort transportation and I now cannot imagine staying off property ever again in my adult life.

So when my parents decided to renew their vows in 2008 at Disney I encouraged an on property stay. We stayed at Coronado Springs Resort and it was wonderful. I would say that I liked POR better...but there's something about the magic of staying on property that just can't be beat. The "weird" part of that vacation was that my 5lb poodle was staying with my boyfriend's mom while we were all down in Disney and she ran away and was lost in the forest preservce for 3 nights. My boyfriend tried to keep it from me...but that lasted all of a few minutes before I told him he needed to tell me what was wrong. So he flew back to Illinois to look for her. By some miracle...they found her and she was okay except for her paws being a little worn. Boyfriend made it back to Disney in time for the vow renewal and I was able to really enjoy the rest of the trip. I did not tell my mom what was going on because she LOVES my dog and would have flown back to look for her vow renewals be darned. But once the dog was safe and sound I was able to tell her and the rest of the trip was fabulous. The renewal ceremony was SO beautiful. We were on the dining plan this trip and I decided I loved the convenience of it so much that I would never do any trip without in the future.

I only tell this info to give a background of my Disney experiences which led up to my trip in September. During the vow renewal trip in 2008, mom and I started talking about taking a trip with just the two of us. I LOVE family vacations...but after doing a trip with just my boyfriend and me I understood the value of a Disney trip that was not about run, run, run and try to fit in everyone's favorites and those inevitable neverending discussions that start with, "What do you want to do?" "I don't care. What do you want to do?" And then they go on and on and on with no one wanting to make a decision. Plus...the "boys" (by which I mean my dad and brother because my boyfriend was just there because I wanted him to be and really didn't care about what we did) had this tendency to drag us around the parks from one end to the other and then back again without taking into consideration that some of us don't appreciate a lot of unnecessary walking. We also got deserted by the boys a couple of times like when they didn't want to stay and watch Illuminations and when they spent a day at Universal. Those moments with just me and mom were very special and that's when we started talking about taking a trip to Disney with just the two of us. And over the years the topic has come up on a number of occassions.

In July 2009...I got seriously injured at work. I now have a very bad condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and it is in my left ankle. I had to relearn to walk at the age of 25 and not a moment goes by when I am not in pain. But I am a fighter and despite the pain I worked really really hard to push through the pain and regain a sense of normalcy. I'm in pain...but I can walk. And my biggest motivation...or the goal that I had in mind to help me keep pushing through was that I want to be able to go to Disney again and be able to walk through the parks. Some people found that to be a very strange goal...but it kept me going.

By May I had reached a point where I could walk and work again. Still in a lot of pain, but I could do it. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is a condition that can spread to the entire body. In 10 years...I may have it in my whole body. I hope not...but it's a reality that I need to consider. So the time for putting things off for some future date has passed. There are many things that I may never be able to do...but this "someday" trip for me and my mom became a "we're going to do this now" sort of trip.

So...I started pricing out trips. I have 5 weeks of vacation at work and when I went to visit my mom in Nashville for her birthday in June I told her that we were going to book our trip that week for THIS year. And we did. By coincidence, I got a flyer from Disney shortly before my June trip to Nashville and it seemed like it was just fate.

So...budget was really tight for both of us and we decided that a value resort was our best option. After lots of research we decided on Pop Century...mostly because it had its own dedicated bus service compared to the All Star Resorts. We also spent a lot of time debating over dining plans. We knew we wanted to do one...but deciding on which was hard. It was free dining...but we knew we were going to upgrade to either regular Dining Plan or Deluxe. Last time we were there in September 2008, appetizers were part of the regular dining plan...but not anymore. The plan was to arrive early in the morning and leave late at night after check out. Plus, we wanted to try some signature restaurants. So Deluxe ended up being our choice. We knew we wanted to dine in the castle since we've never done that before and after looking at menus we decided on Jiko as our other 2 meal restaurant. So we booked the trip and made those 2 reservations while I was in Nashville and we were on our way.

Most of the rest of the planning fell on me since she lives in Nashville and I live in Chicago. Obviously there were TONS of phone calls...but we were both on the same page and just looking for a very stress free, fun vacation. The plan with the dining plan was to use not 3 meals a day, but to use some on the first and last day, plus to two 2 meal places, and to spread it out that way. I pretty much planned most of the days based on what shows/parades were which days and also on out 2 reservations at Cinderella's table and Jiko, and a little with extra Magic Hours. It was a September trip, so I wasn't very worried about crowds. Once I knew where we would be each day, I started making dining reservations...all sit down places. We've never really eaten at many sit down places and mom and I felt like this would be a great opportunity to try them out. Plus, with mom's rhuemetoid arthritis and my condition...the sit down breaks assured that we would be able to rest and not push ourselves too hard every day. With how many times we've been to Disney, it's not like we felt the need to hit every ride in the parks and we just wanted to have fun and relax. And, without spoiling anything, that's exactly the trip we had. It was really wonderful.

 

[catra121]

Since my post count is too low I can't post pics yet...but hopefully I can add them later. Okay...so...we referred to this trip and the Mother/Daughter Fun Trip for months and months and months and I am sure it will forever be called that. So here's who we are:


Me - Nicole. 27 years old (26 at the time of the trip). Major Disney fan and lover of Disney World and many Disney movies. Favorite Disney movie: Three was tie between Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid.

Mom - Debbie. 55 years old. Another major fan of Disney World. Favorite Disney film: Sleeping Beauty.

This was a trip that we had been talking about for years...and now it was finally happening. Just mom and me. Both of us have physical limitations, though neither of us want to have to use EVCs or wheel chairs if we can help it. So the plan overall was to take our time, sit when we needed to, and just enjoy the atmosphere of being at Disney World. We also wanted everything to be as conveient as possible so that we had zero stress on our trip.

I made all of our dining reservations in advance because I knew from my research that this is now must for table service restaurants. Not a big deals since I am fairly computer savvy. I also planned where we would be based on what nights the shows, parades, and fireworks were. Cinderealls's Royal Table and Jiko were reservations we made before anything else so we also needed to plan around those.

So here was our plan:

Monday:
-Flight from Chicago departs at 6:55am and arrives at MCO at 10:30am
-Check in at Pop Century
-Head over to Epcot
-2:05pm Reservation at Coral Reef Restaurant
-Head over to Magic Kingdom for Parade and Wishes

Tuesday:
-Animal Kingdom
-11:30am Lunch at Yak and Yeti Restaurant
-6:00pm Dinner at Jiko at Animal Kingdom Lodge
-Head over to Downtown Disney

Wednesday:
-Epcot
-12:20pm Lunch at Rose and Crown Pub
-8:00 pm Dinner at Nine Dragons (and watch Illuminations from there)

Thursday:
-Magic Kingdom (AM Early Magic Hours)
-2:00 pm lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table
-Disney Hollywood Studios
-Fantasmic! (My favorite show)
-10:00pm Dinner at Cap'n Jacks in Downtown Disney

Friday:
-Disney Hollywood Studios (Rope Drop)
-11:35am Lunch at 50s Prime Time Cafe
-4:20pm Dinner at Sci-Fi Dine in Theater
-Epcot (PM Magic Hours)

Saturday:
-Magic Kingdom
-12:55pm Lunch at Libery Tree Tavern
-Flight Departs at 7:20pm and arrives in Chicago at 9:05pm

As you can see...lots of dining reservations and a solid plan on where we would be going. But the plan going in was that if we didn't feel up to something then we weren't going to worry about it. No real pressure to be somewhere at a specific time, just planned the food around which parks we would be at. Trying a lot of new places to eat. The only ride that we were really excited about was Toy Story Mania because we had never done it before and it sounded like a lot of fun. So with a plan in place...all that was left was for the trip to start...

 

[catra121]

Mom surprised me with a special treat the night before the trip. She had ordered matching hoodie sweatshirts and baseball caps that had MDF 2010 embroidered on them (MDF standing for Mother/Daughter Fun). So of course that's what we had to wear the first day of the trip!

So...the taxi was scheduled to pick us up 4:30 am to take us to the airport. We woke up at 3:30 am and were sitting outside on the driveway by 4:00 am. Do you think we were excited? Nah...lol! And I don't know if everyone else ever feels this way...but there was this moment of panic while we were waiting that was like, "what if the taxi doesn't show up?" Geez...we were super hyped up. I even took pictures of the suitcases while we were waiting.

The taxi DID show up on time so that was a relief. It was sort of a funny cab ride because the cab driver asked US for directions to the airport. Ummm...was the GPS on the windshield just for show? Lol! But whatever...it was just sort of funny. Nothing was going to spoil our excitement.

I was really worried about the airplane ride because with my condition air travel is very painful. But again...I was going to DISNEY WORLD!! I just kept my focus on that. We grabbed something to eat at the airport since out lunch reservation wasn't until 2:05...and I am the sort of person who is ALWAYS hungry...lol!

Plane landed early which was sort of a nice treat. We walked on down to the Magical Express area and it must have been some Disney magic because we walked right onto the bus with no waiting. Talk about GREAT timing. We were the second stop on the Magical Express bus. They showed a really cute Donald Duck cartoon on the bus...gotta love the classics. And then we arrived at our resort of choice for this trip...Pop Century.

I had called a couple weeks before to make some requests for the room (top floor and facing the lake). We had done online check in...but the online check in line was longer than the regular check in line. Not a big deal or anything...just sort of struck me as odd. Our room was ready when we checked in...first floor and facing the lake. So not really my request but I was totally fine with it. I think the woman checking us in was in training because there was someone else there looking over her shoulder and who checked to see if there was a top floor room available. I really didn't care that much, but nothing was available. I didn't really need them to check but the woman who I think was in training didn't seem very "magical" and it seemed like the other woman was trying to show her how to try to make a guest feel special. I didn't mind as am a manager at a big box retailer so I understand the whole training thing. But the room being ready was definitely a very nice thing and I would rather have had that then waiting for something else. And given the physical limitations of my mom and I...first floor probably was a better option anyway. We were facing the lake and not the pool so it was a very quiet room. The only issue I had at all was the bugs that were on the walls near the floor. I don't know if there would have been less on a higher floor...but I think I read that somewhere and that was why I requested a higher floor. But I didn't tell my mom about them and she never noticed. They weren't spiders so I wasn't freaked out by them...just noticed them is all.

The room was definitely smaller than the ones at the moderates...but I knew that going in. My mom and I knew that we were not going to be spending a lot of time in the room and for 2 people it was totally fine. We had a refurbished room and it was very clean. I liked the layout...though I can see where if you had 4 people in the room that it would be really tight. There wasn't a lot of drawer space...but I just kept all my stuff in my suitcase and it was fine for me. I'm not a very high maintenance guest.

We only had the one towel animal when we got there...the little puppy. It was cute and while I had hoped for some more animals just to add to the magic, I understand that it's not something everyone gets. More important for kids to get them I think. I'm an adult and I can deal.

What I loved most about the resort was the lake and the walking paths. It was wonderful to walk around the resort in the evening and sit on a bench by the lake while I talked to my boyfriend every night. We're very close so we talk every day. I missed him...but hey...I was in DISNEY WORLD! But for a value resort I though the grounds were wonderful. It wasn't very busy or crowded...so I can imagine that would make a difference. We stayed in the 60s building on the back side. The walk to the lobby and Everything Pop and the buses was not very long at all. I was VERY happy with this resort as it was perfect for the kind of trip we planned to have this time around.

 

[catra121]

So after dropping off our carry on bags in the room and checking the place out...we headed off to the busses to catch one to Epcot for our lunch reservation at Coral Reef. The amazing thing...it was only 11:30! Or plan was supposed to land at 10:30 and landed a little early...but to already be heading to the parks by 11:30 was just incredible. And we had our second bit of Disney magic of the trip...we walked right onto an Epcot bus with NO WAIT! How cool is that? And there were only like 4 people on the bus so it was definitely a comfortable ride to the park.

Now...I had pre-purchased a photopass CD and photobook so mom and I knew that we were going to take every opportunity to get a photopass picture. With only two of us...we wanted lots of pictures with BOTH of us in them. This was another first for us on a Disney trip and it helped make the trip special. So at every park we took advantage of every photopass photographer we saw.

Obviously we made it to the park well before our lunch reservation so we did what any Disney fan would do...went for the rides. I like to think that I have a good understanding of the fastpass system and mom and I took advantage of this during our trip. So after getting our photopass picture at the gate, we headed to Soarin' for a fastpass. We then rode Living with the Land. Let me tell you...it's been so long since I rode it that it felt like the first time for me. Not an exciting ride...but I'm glad we did it.

Then we headed over to Figment...or I'm sorry...Journey into the Imagination. I always just call it Figment because I absolutely LOVE Figment. I miss the original ride but this version is definitely better than the first change that they made to it. I swear I could ride this ride over and over again just because of that adorable little dragon.

We then walked back over to Soarin' and used our fastpasses. It's a really great ride...though I have to admit that mom loves it a lot more than I do. Don't get me wrong...it's great...but if I took a trip and didn't make it on the ride I would not be disappointed.

Then it was time for lunch at Coral Reef. This is a place that we have never eaten before. Before I went online to make reservations...I didn't even know that it existed. Let me tell you...the food was AMAZING! I know there were a lot of mixed reviews about it but I totally LOVED the food. I like a lot of seasoning though so maybe that's why I enjoyed it. I know a lot of people like more bland food so I can see where it may not be everyone's taste. We were in a booth probably as far away from the tank as possible...but it worked out okay because I prefer a booth where I can prop up my bad ankle. And being far away meant we got a view of the entire tank. I had the corn chowder soup...very great. Then the NY Strip Steak which was perfectly cooked and seasoned. My favorite dessert of the entire trip was the Cheesecake Napolean that I had here. It was so light and just perfect. Mom had something chocolate for dessert and she felt it was heavy. This was a lesson for both of us that when eating appetizers, entrees, and desserts that you need something light for dessert as opposed to something heavy. But I will definitely eat here again on a future trip. The waiter was just so-so. I hate to keep referring to the fact that I am a manager at a retailer...but he was one of those people that shuffles around a lot to look busy but really doesn't do very much...lol! My mood was so wonderful though that I don't think I could have been annoyed by anything and only found stuff amusing all day.

After lunch we got our picture taken with Chip and Dale. I cannot remember the last time I had my picture taken with characters...but it just seemed like something that would be really fun. This was not a photopass picture...but my camera is so awesome that the picture turned out fabulous. Dale kept kissing me and mom and I were laughing so hard. THIS is what a Disney vacation is about. You can be silly, have a good time, and just enjoy each and every moment. There was a line to see them but it was definitely worth it.

Mom, unfortunately, is a smoker so we spent a lot of time looking for those designated areas. But it gave us both a chance to sit and relax throughout the day so I never really minded. After our little break, we went over to Captain EO! I remember this from when I was really little. What I remember most was when my brother thought that Michael Jordan was in the show as opposed to Michael Jackson (his reading skills were not the best at that age...lol). But it was a fantastic trip down memory lane. I am SO glad we got the opportunity to see this show again now that I am an adult. It was definitely a highlight of the trip.

After Captain EO we decided to head over to Magic Kingdom because we wanted to see the parade and the fireworks. But of course we had to stop at Spaceship Earth on our way out. This is another one of my favorites. But this was the first time I had been on it since they added the little future video thing. I thought that was a lot of fun and it was a very cool surprise for me.

Decided to take the monorail to the Magic Kingdom...because how can you go to Disney and NOT ride the monorail? And yet again...that Disney magic seemed to still be with us as we walked right on to the monorail and were able to sit down in a car by ourselves. I know that September is a slower period at Disney, which is why we chose to go then, but mom and I were both amazed by how much we were able to do in our short time at Epcot...and this being the first day of the trip! So now we were off to the Magic Kingdom....

 

[catra121]

Monorail trip went super smooth to the Magic Kingdom. No problems with the transfer and again walked right on.

Usually our family tradition is to all buy hats at the parks on our first day...but since mom had already gotten us hats and hoodies we decided to skip that this time around. Arriving at the Magic Kingdom we decided to take a stroll through the stores on Main Street. This is one of my favorite things to do at Disney since I am a Disney freak. On a side note though...I was rather disappointed overall at the lack of variety at the stores throughout the different parks. There used to be some uniqueness among the stores where you could find things in one park that weren't at another...but this time everything seemed to be the same. Not a big deal...just took away a little from my love of poking around in all the stores.

We then decided to hit some rides as we were super early for any parades or fireworks. Hit Pirates first as this is one of my favorites. Then we headed over to the Haunted Mansion. This was my first bad experience of the trip. It seemed like everything was fine getting in and doing the stretching room...but this was the first time EVER that when we left the stretching room there was a MOB outside waiting to get onto the buggies. I can't remember a time where we didn't walk straight through to where the buggies were with maybe a short line in the stantion area. This was literally a mob packed in light sardines in a big hallway...no line. Very strange and I probably wouldn't have been so upset by it except that someone kicked my bad ankle 3 times while we were there and the pain was so bad I almost passed out from it. I seriously couldn't walk and had to hang onto my mom until we got to where there was a railing. It's not like the person who kicked me could have known...but this was the first thing that really dampened my spirits. But mentally I know with crowds there was always the possibility of something like this...I just felt like Disney make a mistake letting so many people in like that. If there was a problem with the buggies they should have left the line outside instead of pushing people in and creating the mob scene in the hallway where there was no line or organization at all. Plus...it's dark in there and hard to see. Not good planning on their part...but mistakes happen. Left me a little crippled for the rest of the day though and I needed a lot more rest than I had earlier.

Next we went to Philharmagic. Sitting down was definitely good for my ankle. I think this is one of the best "newer" attractions at Disney World. It's such a great show that uses some amazing movies and songs in a creative way. Plus...it''s a chance for Donald to shine. Donald is my boyfriend's favorite so I now have a soft spot in my heart for the duck.

Then we headed to our spot for the Electrical Parade. I just love this parade. I always take hundreds of pictures of it. Some people say, "How can you enjoy it if all you do is take pictures?" But I LOVE taking pictures and I get such a thrill of getting good shots. It's so beautiful...I want to take it home with me. And I do...with my pictures. To each his own I guess. But my mom is the same way...so it was funny comparing our pics once we got them developed at home to see who got the best shots. Mom was so jealous of the camera my boyfriend got me the first year we were dating that she got a newer version of the same thing just a year ago. Mine still takes better shots...which is wierd because it's only a 5MP with a 10X optical zoom and my mom's is a 7MP with a 12X optical zoom...but I have come to the conclusion that mine just takes better pics than a lot with higher MP counts. Off track...sorry...but so much of my Disney vacation has to do with taking pics and having a blast doing it. We had a great location right on the curb for the parade...we always go for a spot near the entrance on main street...in the circle area. Don't know why...but it's our go to spot.

After the parade we had some time to call my dad and let him know how things were going. He was very happy that mom and I were taking this trip together. He knew how special it was for us. After the call we decided it was time for another photopass picture...our first ever picture in front of the castle at night. We had never thought of that before...but I read it somewhere when I was researching the photopass CD to see if it was worth it and I thought that it would be really cool. The pictures ended up coming out a little fuzzy...but it was still an awesome picture especially in wallet size.

Then we watched Wishes from main street. I took tons of pics. I've never had much success getting fireworks pictures to turn out on my camera because I just couldn't get the right setting (FYI - the "fireworks" setting sucks). But I tried the Museum setting this time and...WOW...I got some amazing pictures. I have to admit that this time my mom did get some really great pictures...though all hers were farther away while mine here like close ups of the castle with the fireworks right there. But the last pic I got...that was the money shot. I got an 8x10 of that one because it was just stunning. Last pic too...weird how that works out sometimes.

After the fireworks we headed out. I wanted to see the water electrical parade floats. I'd never seen them that I could remember and I wanted to see them. This was a trip of firsts after all...lol! I was definitely...underwhelmed by it...but I am glad I saw it. Some day I would love to stay at a hotel where you can see them float by from the hotel. Not worth rushing out of the part to see though. I obviously took pictures but their not high on my list of favorites.

The wait for the busses was typical...long. But what do you expect at park closing? I find it amusing where you hear people complaining about the wait...seems like you should just enjoy the atmosphere and remember that you're at DISNEY WORLD! My ankle was still hurting quite a bit from the Haunted Mansion disaster and unfortunately it was about to get worse. We were towards the front of the line for the bus finally. The people in front of us seemed like they had friends that were just about to get on a bus and then, without warning, they guy in front of me swung under the railing and nailed my bad ankle with the full force of his body weight. I grabbed onto the railing to keep from going down and I could not stop the tears. He was totally oblivious. I just hung on to the railing for dear life until it was time to move and hopped along when it was time to move forward. I was very upset that someone would do such a thing. But I think one of his friends had an accident...fainted or something...and he was rushing over there to see what happened. So I couldn't be too upset at him...and it's not like he could have known what sort of pain he caused me...but he could have just stepped under the railing instead of swinging and then I would not have been hurt. But I didn't make a fuss. I don't want to be one of those people. And it wouldn't have changed anything. I still wouldn't been in pain so I just let it go.

After we got back to the resort I decided to try to walk off the pain (after taking my meds of course). This was where I really appreciated the Pop Century resort. It was quiet and there were lots of benches. I found a bench overlooking the lake and this became my go to spot for the trip to call my boyfriend at night and let him know about my day (and for me to hear about his too). The bench was nice because I could prop my ankle up. Finally got to bed about midnight. Overall...it was a VERY nice day.

Tomorrow was Animal Kingdom...

 

[catra121]

Since we got to bed late after a very long first day at the World...we woke up a bit later than we originally planned. Mom and I are usually early risers...but apparently not today.

Our plan to make the Deluxe Dining Plan really work for us was to use our snacks and refillable mugs for our breakfasts. Neither one of us are big breakfast eaters. So we usually got a muffin or croissant for breakfast. Mom got coffee in her mug and I opted for hot chocolate each morning. This worked out really well. Sometimes we ate at the food court and sometimes we took the food to the room so we could each eat while the other person got ready. Using the mugs and snack credits this way meant that we each had another snack credit to use for a bottle of pop later in the day. Some people say they always have a lot of snack credits left at the end of their trips but using them this way I think we only had 2 left on the last day that we used to get pop for our trip/wait at the airport. Worked out perfect.

Now...this day is a bit of a blur for me because I was in so much pain from my ankle injuries the day before that I doubled up on my pain meds. I can see in the pictures from the day that my eyes look very glassy and I remember not feeling like I was in control of my feet and where I was walking. It was very strange...but it did help with the pain. So I have mixed feelings about whether or not I made the right decision there. But I still had fun.

We arrived at Animal Kingdom around 10:00 I think. We got our photopass pictures taken in front of the Tree of Life. Never done that before and I was really enjoying teh photopass experiences. I knew mom and I would have some really great pictures of the two of us when we got home. In all the times that I have been to Animal Kingdom...I have never seen any of the shows there. So mom and I decided that this time we would see them both.

Festival of the Lion King was the first one we saw. Mom and I were both impressed and thought that it was a great show. Even though I liked it a lot though...I don't feel like it's something that I need to see again. I am super glad we did it and I enjoyed it...but it's sort of like a movie that you enjoy but once you've seen it you don't need to see it again. I took lots of pictures, of course, and I think I got some really great shots.

Next we went over to Expedition Everest. We got some photopass pictures taken on the way with Everest in the background. And...man...if my eyes weren't so glassy those would have been some great pictures...lol! Ride was great of course...and we some how ended up in the front. I don't think I've ever been in the front before and it was pretty cool. After we got off we grabbed some fastpasses for it so we could ride later.

Then it was time for lunch at Yak and Yeti. This was a really cool experience. Took the elevator up since I really struggle with stairs even when I'm at my best these days (which is like a 6 out of 10 on the pain scale). It's sad that I don't remember what it's like to not be in pain. But I wasn't going to let that ruin my trip. The server at Yak and Yeti was probably tied for my favorite server at any of the places we ate. He had a lot of energy and was very knowledgeable about the food. Foog was good. I had the fried green beans, baby back ribs, and fried wontons for dessert. I have never had anything like that for dessert....but they were delicious. I decided early on that with the deluxe dining plan I was not going to try to force myself to eat everything on the plate during the meal. I always left room for dessert and I am so glad I did here. It has occurred to me that if I ever stay at a DVC resort I will definitely do the deluxe dining plan because then I could really take advantage of the leftovers. I'm the sort of person that will eat 10 times a day if I can and I would defintely take advantage of a fridge and microwave to have leftovers later...lol!

So after an excellent lunch experience, we went over and got fast passes for Dinosaur. This is my favorite Animal Kingdom attraction so I wanted to make sure we went on it. Then we headed over to It's Tough to be a Bug. I love this show and a chance to sit down was great. Unfortunately...I think I nodded off during it a couple of time. But I love it anyway. I think the walk through the line to get there is one of the coolest things in the park. I love looking at the animal carvings...and taking pictures of course.


Then we headed over to the Finding Nemo show. Now...this is a VERY cool show. I took a ton of pictures...but yet again I found myself nodding off. This was definitely the meds at work because I NEVER nod off like that. I found it easier to watch the show through my camera than straight on. But it's such a fabulous show. I'm really glad we saw it. But like the Festival of the Lion King...I doubt I will see it again unless I go with someone else who wants to see it.

After the show we used out Dinosaur fastpasses. Walked right on with zero wait. Very cool. The ride is a little tough on my ankle...but I just love it. Then we did Expedition Everest again with the fastpasses and walked right onto that one too.

We did a little bit of shopping after the ride. Mom bought me sunglasses because some how I forgot to bring mine. And I thought I was so prepared...lol! But it was SO sunny and I have to admit that the sunglasses made me look slightly less medicated. Animal Kingdom was the one park that seemed like it had some more unique merchandise. I bought myself a bucket hat there with a pink mickey head in the middle. I don't know why I bought it...but I really liked it. When I showed my boyfriend when I got home he said that it looked like a good fishing hat...lol! I might agree if it wasn't white...fishing can he dirty sometimes when you get a big one on...lol!

We decided to go after that. Animal Kingdom is such a humid park and we felt like we had done the things that we really wanted to. Mom wanted to go on the Kali Rapids water ride but I really didn't feel up to it. I told her I would but she could tell I really didn't want to so we decided to leave the park and head back to the hotel to change. We had a reservation at Jiko and didn't want to be in our sweaty clothes that we wore at the park.

The bus ride back was pretty long because it stopped at two other places: Disney Hollywood Studios and Blizzard Beach. We didn't pick anyone up at either place...but we still had to stop there. But that's how the buses work and I really wasn't bothered by it. I love the convenience of the busses and not having to drive anywhere. I can't imagine driving a car and parking at the resorts and parks and all that. I'd rather just use the disney transportation system and not have to worry.

 

[catra121]

So we made it back to the resort and got ready for our dinner at Jiko. Not that we got super dressed up or anything, but brushed our hair and put on some clean clothes. I put on some nicer jeans than the ones I had been wearing at the park. I wore jeans every day of this trip because my ankle cannot handle cold and I know that everywhere you go inside would be air conditioning...which I can't handle without protection. So it was jeans every day. But I had nicer ones for when we went to Jiko that weren't ratty or anything. Mom didn't like that I wore jeans but oh well. Different generations. I still looked nice and she it's not like we fought about it.

We decided to take a cab to Animal Kingdom Lodge instead of taking busses from one place to another to get there. It saved us a lot of time...but boy are those cab rides EXPENSIVE. Worth it though. I tell you...we were all about convenience this trip. And honestly...if you expect to go to Disney and not spend money and have that convenience...you're crazy. I take convenience over cheap any day. And it's not like I have lots of money to throw around otherwise we would have been staying somewhere nicer...but I knew the costs going in and decided it was worth it.

So we got to the hotel a little early and decided to walk around a bit. Checked out the pool area and the lobby. It seems like a HUGE hotel...but definitely gorgeous! It's definitely on my list of resorts that I want to stay at some day. We got a little lost trying to find the restaurant...lol! But I guess a 6:00 reservation is an early one and when we got there a little early we just had a small wait in their sitting area. Definitely a beautiful restaurant. When we were seated it felt like we were the only ones in the restaurant. We had a table right next to a window with w beautiful pond/stream next to it. Gorgeous! And after the humidity in the parks and the hustle and bustle of the day...this was a very relaxing atmosphere. We both loved it.

Our server here was tied with the one at Yak and Yeti for best server. She was very different...not that high energy sort...but very knowlegeable and personable. Which was very much in line with the feel of the restaurant. I tried some food here which was very unique and not what I had originally planned. I ended up getting boar for appetizer, halibut for entree, and cheesecake for dessert. This cheesecake was not as good as what I had at Coral Reef...but all the food was really excellent. I wouldn't recommend it to someone who is not adventurous with their food selections...but this was a fabulous meal. And just the opportunity to relax with my mom in such a beautiful place. By this time I was definitely more alert and feeling better. Mom and I will both remember this as a great moment in our trip together.

After dinner we headed to their gift shop. They have some really cool things in there and it was a lot of fun to look around. Then we headed over to the bus stop and caught a bus to Downtown Disney.

We always have a good time at Downtown Disney. I mean...who doesn't love the World of Disney store? And we also love going to the Christmas store. My absolute favorite though it always the Art of Disney store. If I had the money...I would spend it on some of those wonderful pieces. Years ago I bought a very special anniversary present for my parents. It was a Lady and the Tramp lithograph that is motion sensored so that when you walk by different characters light up and say stuff or sing songs. Some day I want to get something for my home. Don't know how the boyfriend would feel about that...lol! But I love looking anyway. Especially some of the new Kinkade pictures...stunning. I do cross stitch and they now have kits of those artworks but the detail just isn't there so I won't stitch them. But I may buy a print some day. So many neat things in that store.

We didn't buy anything though this trip to Downtown Disney. But just poking around can be a lot of fun. Afterall...the point of the trip is just for us to spend time together and walking around DTD is always enjoyable. Sort of stinks that the Marketplace bus stop is closed. It was the last time we were there which makes it difficult for those of us who have trouble walking. But then again...I knew there would be a lot of walking involved in this trip so what's a little more?

Caught a bus back to Pop. Went to my bench overlooking the lake again and spent some time talking with the boyfriend. It really was a beautiful spot. Next up was our day at Epcot...

 

[catra121]

Got another late start this morning...got up around 8:30. Did our usual breakfast at the food court using our mugs (we definitely got our use out of these things which I really wasn't convinced we would at first). Caught the bus to Epcot around 9:45 and managed to get onto the first one even with a little bit of a line.

Since we managed to get on a lot of rides our first day at Disney World we did not feel a lot of pressure to run around to hit everything today. First thing we did was get fastpasses for test track. Then we went and rode Mission Space and then Ellen's Energy Adventure. I know a lot of people feel like they can pass on Ellens Energy Adventure. I mean...after you've seen it once it's not like the jokes are all that funny and you know what's going to happen...but for some reason this is a ride that I always feel like I have to go on. Don't know if it's a nostalgia sort of thing or what...but I always make time for it even though it's a long ride. Then we used our fastpasses for Test Track.

And now it was time for lunch. Well...actually it was a little early for lunch...but I was hungry. So we made our was to the Rose and Crown Pub. Originally I tried for a reservation in the evening so we could watch Illuminations from there...but there was no availability. I really liked the menu though and we have never eaten here before so I made the lunch reservation. OMG...the food was SO good. They had a new menu so it wasn't exactly what I has seen online...but it was frigging AWESOME. I had the Potato and Leek soup which was just incredible. I rarely finish soups but this one I went all the way with...lol! And I had the beef fillet which was just OUTSTANDING. The waitress was very pleasant but seemed confused by the new menu because she didn't know if the beef fillet was available for lunch. I heard her ask the manager who sort of looked at her and was like, "It's on the lunch menu, of course it's available." New menu I guess I can forgive confusion. Like I said...I'm not high maintenance. I notice stuff like this but it doesn't really bother me. My mom tried one of their signature drinks and really seemed to enjoy it. I don't drink alcohol...just coke with no ice for me everywhere...but mom really like it. It was pink and I think Rose was in the name somewhere but after all this time I really don't remember what it was called. She got to keep the glass though and that was sort of cool. I'm SO glad I decided to make a reservation here. This is another one that I definitely want to do again.

After lunch we went to the Mouse Gear store. This was about the time that I started to get really disappointed by the "sameness" of all the stores in the parks. I remember being able to find some really cool stuff at this store in the past and now it was like there was nothing special. On a family vacation there early in my relationship with my boyfriend (he wasn't with that time) I found this really great fleece pull over that I bought him. He wears it all the time and it actually fits him which is rare because he is 6ft 6in tall and usually things that hit him in the arms are HUGE in the waist because he slim. But this one fits him perfect. He's not a Disney fan...but it really brings joy to my heart to see him wear it. Anyway...Mouse Gear was the only place I saw it. And now they just seem to have same old same old. But all trip long I kept eyeing frames because I knew I was going to buy some at some point because obviously with all the pictures I take I wanted to display some and I always invest in a few nice Disney frames.

After Mouse Gear we did something I don't think we have ever done in my life...we went to the Epcot Character Spot for pictures. I had bought the photopass CD and we had so much fun with Chip and Dale that first day that we thought, "Why not?" There was a short line...but it was so much fun. We got so many great pictures. It was REALLY special. I liked all the characters except Minnie. She just seemed so stand offish. But Donald was definitely one of my favorites. He was lots of fun. And so was Pluto. Those two really stood out for me...but it really was a blast. Next time we go as a family I think we should definitely do it.

Since we did all the other stuff in Future World that first day, we decided to make our way to the World Showcase. Now...we ALWAYS start at Mexico and go around that way. But this time...we were rebels...lol! We started in Canada. It made sense since we had a dinner reservation at Nine Dragons in China. In one of the stores in Canada we had the unique pleasure of overhearing a conversation some teenage girls were having about how they wanted hooters and beavers. Um...mom and I couldn't help but find that hilarious. What can I say...we have a dirty sense of humor and those girls really had no idea how what they were saying sounded. This was not the first odd conversation we would hear for the day.

We hit all the countries except Mexico. This was only because my mom didn't want to go. Since she gave up the Kali Rapids for me...I was more than willing to give up Mexico for her. I love the World Showcase. Epcot is probably my favorite park...though I love them all. There's just something about traveling around the world in Epcot that I find so relaxing and fun. My favorite thing there is the Norway ride. It's sort of corny...but I love it. I have never bought one of the troll dolls in the store there...but someday I will. They're so ugly that they're cute.

We also got a bunch of photopass pictures taken around the World Showcase. Some came out nice and others not so much. But it was fun none the less. We wanted a night shot in front of Spaceship Earth. Unfortunately...it wasn't really dark when we got there. The lights for evening were on though and it was getting dark. So we got our picture taken from the back side with the lit up fountain behind us. Those were some really neat pictures.

And then it was time for dinner. We were eating at Nine Dragons. Nine Dragons is a tradition for my family although it's usually our lunch spot. But this trip mom and I wanted to try something different. We thought it would be neat to watch Illuminations from the restaurant where they pipe in the music in the restaurant. I knew that Nine Dragons is not the BEST place to do this...but it can be done. So when we got there we requested a table by the window. The hostess said they normally wouldn't because there are just the two of us and those tables are bigger...but they weren't that busy so we got our window seat. Yay! I have to admit that I ate rather slowly to stretch out the dinner so that we could watch Illuminations. The food was okay. I think their lunch food is better...and the dessert is so so. But watching Illuminations was really spectacular. Usually when we sit outside and watch it I can see the low stuff really well but there usually seems to be something in the way of the higher fireworks. Well...we got an awesome view of both. Don't think I've ever seen them that close up (which is funny because we were IN a restaurant). But they dim the lights and pipe in the music. The only thing we couldn't see well was the ball that lights up in the middle...but I've seen that so many times that I wasn't disappointed. And...the biggest plus...I was sitting in a chair in a restaurant instead of on the ground outside. I'm glad we tried this. I wouldn't recommend it to a first timer seeing the show...but as someone who has seen it many many times...this was a great way for ME to see it.

We took our time finishing dessert after Illuminations was over and then mom stopped outside to have a smoke break. We took our time and let me tell you...this was probably the first time that I left Epcot at night there I wasn't in the mob that all exits at the same time. Of course this meant that the bus lines were LONG when we finally made it there...but I'll take that trade off any day. And you really notice the details and the lights in the concrete on the ground when there's no mob. I have to say that I like Epcot that way...you know...without the mob...lol!

So then it was back to the hotel. Big day planned for tomorrow at the Magic Kingdom...

 

[catra121]

Thursday was a day that mom and I had both been looking forward to all week. Not that we weren't enjoying every day so far...but we had some big plans for today.

Today we got an early start because there were early morning magic hours at the Magic Kingdom and we wanted to make it there for rope drop. I cannot remember ever being at a park for rope drop, although I'm sure it happened at some point in my life when I was little. Anyway...we were at the Magic Kingdom by 7:10am. Early morning magic hours started at 8am...so we were there in plenty of time.

We also somehow made it to the front of the line where the rope actually was. Don't know how that happened but I swear we didn't do anything pushy to get there...lol!

We went to Spece Mountain first thing and walked right on. Then we did all the rides in Tomorrow land except Stitch (we loved it when it was the scary alien version but the Stitch version just doesn't do anything for us). I love the Buzz Lightyear ride and the Carousel of Progress. And the People Mover is a must for us every trip.

Next up was Fantasy Land. This is my favorite part of the Magic Kingdom. We got fastpasses for Peter Pan (my dad's favorite and definitely one of my top favorites). We rode Whinnie the Pooh and Snow Whites Scary Adventure. Skipped Small World because I tend to just find it annoying.

By the time the park opened for everyone else we had completely finished Tomorrow Land and Fantasy Land. Next up was Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We didn't want to do Splask Mountain yet since we were going to have our late lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table. We WERE hungry though so we headed to the Main Street Bakery and Split a sandwich and chips meal...just to tide us over.

Then we went back through some of the shops in tomorrowland, fantasy land, and liberty square that we had passed up. Again...same old same old. Now we got fast passes for Splash Mountain to use after our lunch in the castle. Then we checked out the Hall of Presidents (which I don't remember ever seeing though I'm sure I did at some point in my life), Haunted Mansion (which was much better this time), and Peter Pan again.

And now it was time for our lunch reservation at Cinderella's Royal Table. The check in process was a little confusing...but no biggie. My mom seemed more frustrated by it than me. I just sat down on a bench but she kept pacing. The coolest thing though was seeing all the girls who had been to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. WOW...I would have loved that when I was little. Those girls really had a magical experience and it was so much fun to watch them. I don't want kids myself...but seeing kids enjoying that Disney magic is so much fun.

When we finally got in I was really impressed by the entry hall where you get your picture taken with Cinderella. The woman playing her was wonderful. But I loved the stained glass and the tapestries. But my favorite part was that up on one of the walls, sort of tucked away, were the two mice. Gus and...I can't remember the other guy's name. But how CUTE is that?!

The stairs up to the dining hall were a challenge for me. I probably could have told them about my ankle and taken an elevator...but then I would have missed the details in the stairway. I didn't check out the bathroom (I'm not one who uses public restrooms) but I was tempted just to see what sort of detail they had in there. But once we got to our table I totally felt the magical experience. We were seated right at the window overlooking Fantasy Land. OMG...I couldn't have asked for more. I don't think I would have enjoyed the tables in the center of the restaurant. But our spot was fantastic.

They gave my mom and I each wands which was very fun. I wasn't expecting fabulous food or anything but I came into this just expecting to have a very fun experience. The food was surprisingly good. I guess when you have low expectations it's always a nice surprise when the food is good. But the princesses were fabulous! We saw Snow White, Ariel, Aurora, and Belle. We got some nice pictures with all of them. It was REALLY a fun experience. I don't need to do it again...but I am so glad that I got to do this with my mom on this trip. It was a really special experience.

Now that lunch was over...we headed over to Splash Mountain. Then we decided that it was time to head over to Disney Hollywood Studios. On our way out though we stopped and got our pictures taken in front of the castle by a photopass photographer. This was the only guy that had us do any fun poses with tinkerbell. It was fun...and we still had our wands.

 

[catra121]

I decided that instead of going back to Pop and then to Hollywood Studios that I would take mom to Port Orleans Riverside where my boyfriend and I stayed that one time. I thought she would enjoy seeing it. So we took a bus there, walked around a little bit, and the caught a bus to Hollywood studios.

This was the only night that Fantasmic was showing while we were there and since it's my absolute favorite night time show I made sure we got there to see it. Mom got a phone call from her mother right after we arrived at the park. My mom didn't want her mom to know we were at Disney World because her mom doesn't understand our love of Disney and it would end up being a lecture. The conversation went on for a while by we made our way to the Muppets show. When the call finally ended we went in. This is another favorite of mine and the sitting down was a good thing after a busy morning at Magic Kingdom.

Then we went to see The Little Mermaid. Another of my all time favorites. Not surprising since it's one of my favorite movies. Afterwards we went to the ABC Commissary and split a meal. I know it's sort of a waste of the Deluxe Dining Plan...but who cares. It was convenient and no reservation required. We had a late reservation at Cap'n Jacks in DTD...but we decided to see the late show of Fantasmic and skipped the reservation. Maybe next trip.

We rode the Tower of Terror after our meal. It was one of the GOOD rides. I'm disappointed sometimes with some of them...but this one was a good sequence.

And then it was time to get in line for Fantasmic! Now...at this point in the vacation I had come to the conclusion that I DO NOT like waiting in line. And the experience waiting for Fantasmic! was TERRIBLE. By the time we got seated the show was just about to start and we got in line EARLY. This was the first time I have been to the show when they didn't run it every night or have the seperate entrance for the dinner package. What a mess. As much as I LOVE the show...I don't think that I will ever see it again unless it goes back to the every night showings. The line experience was just so unpleasant that I just don't ever want to go through it again. Maybe it's an overreaction...but I'm just not going to put myself through that again. People who got in line later didn't get seated until AFTER the show started and it was distracting. I don't remember anything like that in the many times I have seen the show. If it's just 2 shows a week next time I go...I'll be skipping this show.

Surprisingly...we didn't have to wait too long for the bus to Pop since we saw the second show of Fantasmic. We caught the second bus back to the hotel. In the morning we would be heading back to Hollywood Studios for our second rope drop of the trip...

 

[catra121]

Friday was our last full day and we had a big day planned. We wanted to make rope drop at Hollywood Studios. Managed to get to the park by 8:30. We weren't at the very front of the rope drop like we were at the Magic Kingdom...but we were close enough. And when that rope dropped...for two people with mobility issues...we made impressive time hauling it to Toy Story Mania for fast passes. I have to say that I was impressed by how well Disney handles the whole mob that heads for Toy Story Mania. It's very organized and those army guys are a great touch. We got our fast passes for 10am. Not bad. No way were we waiting in the stand by line. Holy cow...never seen anything like that before.

Fastpasses in hand we headed over to Rock and Roller coaster where we walked right on. Then we headed over to Tower of Terror where we again walked right on. Then it was teh Great Movie Ride. Apparently now that Toy Story Mania is there, the morning leaves all these other rides wide open.

But now it was time for Toy Story Mania! I was very excited because this was a new ride for me and I had heard great things about it. The Stand By line was already over 2 hours...I would never wait that long for a ride. Not ever...but we had our fast passes. There was still a wait of course...but it wasn't very long. Plus, it gave me a chance to check out the stuff they had for decorations. They did a GREAT job with the theming of this attraction. And OMG...I totally get the hype for this ride. It was really a lot of fun! Not worth a 2 hour wait...but worth getting up early and hauling your behind to get a fast pass at rope drop.

I was player 2 there...lol! So much fun!

After riding Toy Story Mania we went and got Fastpasses for Rock and Roller Coaster. Then we decided to spend some time relaxing and shopping. We had a bit of fun in the stores.

My mom in the best hat ever:

My in my Mad Hatter hat:

Then we had our lunch at The 50s Prime Time Cafe. I'd never eaten there before but it seemed like it would be a fun experience. I really loved the atmosphere. Our waitress was nice but she definitely was not into the Schtick. That's alright though...mom and I didn't mind. The food was alright...but at this point we were feeling the effects of having so much food for the past week. Overall a good experience but I am not sure that I will make a point to come back.

After lunch we went and rode Rock and Roller Coaster again. Then we picked up some fastpasses for Tower of Terror.

I was having some trouble walking at this point so mom and I decided to head back to the hotel for an afternoon rest. Mom took a nap at the hotel but after a short sit down rest I decided to walk around just a little bit and sit on my favorite bench for a while. Took some pics of the resort (big surprise, right?). When mom woke up she discovered that she lost the lens to her back up set of glasses. Took a while but we eventually found it. She lost her regular glasses as soon as we arrived at Disney World. Very typical for her...lol!

So then we went back to Hollywood Studios. Rode Tower of Terror first thing. I don't know...do you think we like this ride or what?

Then it was time for lunch at Sci-Fi Dine in Theater. The food here is just so-so. But I just LOVE eating here. Those old clips from old B movies...so funny. The waiter here was fun and he was nice enough to take a picture of me and mom in the car. I make it a point to eat at this place every time I go because it's just so much fun.

And that was pretty much the end of our day at Hollywood Studios. But on the way out we stopped at a store where they had this really neat frame that looked like a film strip that holds 7 wallet sized photos. I thought it would be a really cool way to display a bunch of our photopass photos from the trip. It worked out GREAT and I have it displayed in my family room. Doesn't take up a lot of space and I get to show off a bunch of pics.

Now it was off to Downtown Disney to spend some money...

 

[catra121]

So I have to say that this trip we spent much less time at Downtown Disney than usual. Not really sure why...but it being the last full day of the trip there were a few things that we wanted to pick up.

Mom had been eyeing this really large Eeyore stuffed doll for years...like since her vow renewal. And I finally talked her into buying it. She wanted it...so why not? Mom also bought me a hoodie that I had been eyeing for a while this trip. I wasn't sure if I wanted to spend the money on it but I finally gave in...and then SHE paid for it. Gotta love moms. I bought myself a tiny version of the Eeyore that she got. He looks so sad...keeps losing his tail. But he is displayed in out family room too with the pics from the trip.

We went back to the room and dropped off our purchases and then it was off to Epcot for evening magic hours. We were able to walk right on to Figment, Mission Space, and Spaceship Earth. There was a 20 minute wait for Soarin when we got in line and it was great. When we got off the wait was 80 minutes...yikes! Rode figment again and they took our picture since there was no one else there.

The wait for test track was ridiculous so mom and I went in the single rider line. It's a nice ride...but it wasn't as fun with us being in seperate cars. Took a few pictures at night around the park.

I stopped at one of the stores on the way out and finally bought the frames I had been looking at all trip and a photo album. When we got to the hotel I finally bought a sippy cup and stuffed toy for my boyfriend's nephew. This turned out to be an awesome thing because the kid was very skeptical of me before and after I gave him the sippy cup and Pluto...he loves me now. Totally worth it.

Then it was back to the hotel. Now...the entire trip there were zero problems with my mom and I sleeping in the same room. This particular night...OMG...the SNORING. I couldn't sleep at all because it was so LOUD. You could hear it outside the room. The worst part was that I woke her up a few times thinking maybe if she shifted positions that it would stop. Oh no...there was no stopping this. And every time she woke up she told me she hadn't been sleeping. By the end of the night I was so slap happy from zero sleep that I was literally laughing uncontrollably. She went for breakfast herself in the morning so I could finally get an hour of sleep. All trip she was fine and then suddenly this happened. I blame the large Eeyore she was sleeping with...it was all his fault...lol!

 

[catra121]

So after I finally got some sleep from 6:30am to 7:30am...I took a nice bath to wake myself up and calm down. Then it was time to get everything packed up. This really didn't take too long since I pretty much kept everything in my suitcase the entire time. Just needed to check the room for anything that I may have set down on a table or anything and to pack up the toiletries. Took mom quite a bit longer to pack as she likes to spread out in a hotel room.

Had to call to pay our bag fees so that we could do the airline check in from the hotel. That was ridiculous because I literally had to call 7 times because they were too busy to take calls. But we had express check out and airline check in and that was all a breeze. I was actually surprised how small the hotel bill was since I charged everything to the room (tips and my few purchases). I guess when you pay for all the dining up front you take care of the big costs ahead of time.

We left our carry on bags with baggage assistance and then headed back to the Magic Kingdom. We grabbed a meal at the main street bakery. Mom was surprisingly unhelpful and I ended up dropping my sandwich. I was a little annoyed but really how mad can you get when you're at Disney World. I ate my food over by Space Mountain and when I was done we went on that. Then we went on Buzz Lightyear again...I won this time. Then hopped on over to Pirates and then saw the Country Bears.

Then we went to the Haunted Mansion. Another good experience this time...don't know what was going on the first day. Funny though that every time we rode the Haunted Mansion this trip we ended up with the tall ghost. Guess it was supposed to remind me of my boyfriend...lol!

Then we had our lunch at the Liberty Tree Tavern. This is another place we never ate at before. Honestly...I didn't even know it existed. But the food was really very good. Again we had a really nice server. I would definitely come here again.

Did some last minute shopping on Main Street. My mom wanted to get a present for my dad and after many days of debating...she ended up getting the only one they had left of the ones she was looking at. Talk about fate. Made the decision easy...lol!

Then it was back to the resort. We still had a couple of meals left so we bought stuff we could take with to the airport and eat while we were waiting for the plane. We knew we were getting there 3 hours before our flight and by then I would be hungry. Then it was time for us to get on the Magical Express and leave the World.

For some odd reason my mom left her headphones at home. We noticed this on the airplane ride to Florida because we weren't able to watch movies together on my ipod. So while at MCO we found her a pair of headphones that were not ridiculously prices. On the plane ride home he watched The Tudors.

My mom was renting a car once we got back to Chicago because she was going to stay for a week and wanted her own car. This meant no one had to pick us up which was a good thing. Only problem was that we waited over an HOUR for the rental car bus to pick us up. It was RIDICULOUS! But just another thing to laugh about once it was over. Our plane landed at 8:50 but with the rental car issues we didn't get home until 11:30.

 

[catra121]

I know all that was really long an detailed. I spared you the majority of my pictures as there were something like 600 of them. Since my netbook doesn't have a CD drive I didn't post any of the photopass pictures either but I have to say that if you are taking a trip where you want lots of pictures of all the people in the group...this is definitely worth considering. I LOVE that I have so many pictures of both me and my mom from this wonderful trip.

I also preordered a photobook. This was an interesting experience. I like photobooks and the Disney system works really well. However...when I got my photobook they printed the pages in the wrong order. I was VERY disappointed. I sent an email with the issue which was very politely worded explaining the problem. Basicaly I got a response that stated their policy about non refundable and I could send it back to them for a reprint...blah blah blah. So I felt the need to send a much stronger worded message about how this was not MY fault...not a typo I made or something to do with the quality of MY pictures. THEY made the mistake and if they wanted the thing back then they could send a prepaid box for me to send it back in because why should I PAY to send it back for THEIR mistake. I understand that mistakes happen...but I was very frustrated that I needed to be so forceful with them to get a proper resolution. I even told them that if they just needed proof that the book was printed wrong I would be happy to email them pictures. They sent me a new book free of charge and it was perfect. Love the book but next time I will probably opt for just the CD and them use another site for the photobook using those pictures on the CD and my own.

But this is a trip that I will always remember. In the past few months my issues with my ankle have taken a severe turn for the worse and I find myself thinking about my next Disney trip as my motivation to get better again. I don't know when that will be...I've even considered taking a trip by myself some day. But I need to be able to walk first. Memories of this wonderful trip with my mom keep me moving and focused on getting better.

I know people go to Disney with many different types of trips in minds. Some people go just for the rides and they want to fit as much in as possible. Some go for the character moments. Some go for their kids and mix shows, rides, and pools. This trip for me and my mom was all about food, convenience, and relaxation. And in my mind it was 100% a success. I LOVE Disney World and I just can't wait to go back!