My aunt had surgery so I went to Disneyworld. Update 5/23 Final Thoughts

[tazdev3225]

Our trip was great, we loved it. I have been trying to post photos on Facebook but FB is giving me trouble, I will try again tomorrow, thanks.

I look forward to seeing them. A cruise is not in my future. Jim doesn't like boats. Almost did the Disney out of NYC last year but the kids had other ideas.

 

[tazdev3225]

Day 5

OK Time to just finish this thing off.

Sadly this was the day I went home. I was up early, showered and packed. I had coffee to give the day a kick start and chatted with my mom and aunt. They had plans so by 9:00 I had said my good byes, thanked my aunt for letting me stay with her and was on my way. My aunt gave me a chocolate chip muffin to eat on the way since I didn't want to eat.

As I was sitting at a red light I realized for the first time that the little car I rented had a sun roof. It would have been nice to use while stuck in traffic a few days. A little before 10 I was here


In case it's hard to tell I ended my trip at Hollywood Studios. By a little after 10 I was seeing this


I entered through the new RFID turnstiles here


They are going to be so easy once people get used to them. I had few plans here. So I was taking my time. Took a few pics.

Didn't know if I should Stop or Go


Love the old cars and made me think of a some friends. One LOVED his picture taken with the cars in October


I was headed to


The wait time was fairly long so I got a FP and moved on. I was headed to the Art of Animation but made a detour at the Great Movie Ride. I know everybody gets this pic


Took a few but did like this


There are figures in the gangsters car. Did I get that side?

This made me think of my DH home at work. he's a Deputy Sheriff so visits these places a lot


I asked and scored the Cowboy side




I really had no plans to take pics on this ride either but this was too good to pass up. I was sitting right there.


Loved this movie as a kid


No offense to Mayim Balik, Amy Farrah Fowler on Big Bang Theory, but the wicked witch really reminds me of her.


After the ride I took some pics of the foot prints outside.
One of my favorite singers/actresses


Have to get Goofy


Han Solo


Carol Channing. When I was around 13 my grandmother took me to see a talk show that was filmed in Philadelphia. Carol Channing came out of the building and ran right into me. She looked scared. I was thrilled. A real life actress made me fall down.


My next stop


I got to the Animation Academy just as they were getting ready to close the doors. I was happy because I did not want to wait for the next show. Now I have to say I am not an artist. I could never draw a stick figure. Somehow I manage to do OK here. The character we drew was Tigger and I amaze myself. I think he turned out OK


More to come.

 

[Lesprivate]

I have not gone to the Animation Academy as of yet, no one in my family wants to try it maybe in August. I only got the cowboy one time but still enjoy that ride everytime.

 

[dmoore718]

I'm here and from Philly too!!! My DH is actually a Philly firefighter So sorry about your Aunt and the corrupt cleaning lady.

 

[jwgm2012]

Just found your TR today and am all caught up!

Thanks for your pics at F&W at EPCOT - it's so easy to breeze by so many of the little details - but you captured many! One of your pics made me LOL - it's of pluto but Mickey's hand made it's way into the frame and it looks like Mickey is spanking Pluto's booty! Don't know why that made me laugh - maybe my kids' sense of humor is rubbing off on me...

Thanks again for your TR and pics!

gina

 

[tazdev3225]

I have not gone to the Animation Academy as of yet, no one in my family wants to try it maybe in August. I only got the cowboy one time but still enjoy that ride everytime.

You really should try and get there in August. It really is a lot of fun. I asked for the cowboy side and was happy they were running it. I do enjoy it too.

I'm here and from Philly too!!! My DH is actually a Philly firefighter So sorry about your Aunt and the corrupt cleaning lady.

My DH wanted to be a firefighter. In fact our first date ended at Engine 36.

Thanks, I am trying to come to terms with it all. I'll have aan update on all that in my last segment.

Just found your TR today and am all caught up!

Thanks for your pics at F&W at EPCOT - it's so easy to breeze by so many of the little details - but you captured many! One of your pics made me LOL - it's of pluto but Mickey's hand made it's way into the frame and it looks like Mickey is spanking Pluto's booty! Don't know why that made me laugh - maybe my kids' sense of humor is rubbing off on me...

Thanks again for your TR and pics!

gina

Your very welcome. I really was trying to get the little details since I could go at my own pace and not feel like I was holding anybody up. I'll have to go back and look at the pics for the Mickey spanking Pluto. Don't know how I missed that. I have an off beat sense of humor and that would make me laugh too.

 

[jecskc]

Yay for the Cowboy scene !! We have only gotten that one once.

I love the Animation Class. We are definitely doing that in September.

LOL that you noticed the sunroof on the LAST day.

Susan

 

[rndmr2]

My DH is the opposite. Once we hit Disney property the car doesn't move for a week. He drives for a living and is very content to let someone else do the driving.

This is me. I drive a lot for work too (I am a home health nurse), and my DH doesn't drive at all and that means I am the driver ALL the time. So when I am on vacation I look forward to a week or so without having to drive anywhere if I can help it.

Love the GMR, I haven't seen the Cowboy side in a few years.

I really want to try the Animation Academy one of these days.

 

[tazdev3225]

This is me. I drive a lot for work too (I am a home health nurse), and my DH doesn't drive at all and that means I am the driver ALL the time. So when I am on vacation I look forward to a week or so without having to drive anywhere if I can help it.

Love the GMR, I haven't seen the Cowboy side in a few years.

I really want to try the Animation Academy one of these days.

I think that is one of the best parts of staying on property. The car gets parked and then we can rely on Disney to get around. I'm sure driving could get us places faster but I like the stress free, I'm in nu hurry feeling.

I asked for the cowboy side. It was a nice change of pace.

I love Animation Academy now. It makes me feel so talented.

 

[tazdev3225]

Yay for the Cowboy scene !! We have only gotten that one once.

I love the Animation Class. We are definitely doing that in September.

LOL that you noticed the sunroof on the LAST day.

Susan

Meant to multi quote. I really need to pay attention.

Ask for the Cowboy scene. That was what I did,

I love that class too. I seriously cannot draw. never could but that class makes me feel like DaVinci.

I know in the car for 5 days and I never notice the sunroof. I would have so liked driving with that open.

 

[tazdev3225]

I had just finished my wonderful rendition of Tigger. Where did I go next? Tower of Terror. I had never been on this ride til about 3 years ago. My DH and kids love it. I was content to sit and wait for them. I really wanted to see what it looked like inside so I told my DH that he was going on and I would take the chicken exit. I have back issues and was always worried how it would be. Well on that trip I decided to take the "plunge". I have never looked back. I did take a few pics




Got the ghosts again


And the ride pic. I am in the back with the camera in my face


It's a running joke with my family and friends that when they snap that pic so do I. Unfortunately I haven't gotten the picture I want yet so I will keep trying.

After TOT I headed over towards TSM. One Man's Dream was on the way so I did a quick walk around. Never knew Walt's boyhood hero was Lincoln


My youngest DD shares a birthday with Lincoln and always liked him for that reason. TSM had an hour wait posted so I skipped it. FP was out too as the return time was after I had to leave. Thought about the Jack Sparrow attraction but heard how bad it was and a 30 minute wait was more than I was willing to waste. So I headed to


Not being in the scooter I could take the back row and see some of what is there


There was no movie to watch while we waited and the preshow was just an explanation of special effects. I love the preshow and watching some poor person getting soaked. Took my time walking to the loading zone and just missed a tram. No big deal. Took a picture or two


I really don't like this attraction anymore except it's an opportunity to sit, The whole dialogue is "canned" and the person in the front is just there to tell people to keep seated. It was so much better years ago. The American Film Institute exhibit changed.

West Side Story script


Sound of Music marionettes


Titanic props


After looking around I was off to Streets if America
A tea Room



Loved the no horn blowing


Continued in next post

 

[tazdev3225]

After my little walk through San Francisco and New York I decided that I needed to take a journey to a far away place. I got a FP and then went in the stand-by line. I haven't been that way in awhile and it was hard with the ankle which was swelling and not liking the walk. I did get a few pictures






This guy yelled at me for holding up the line


Hope the luggage makes it




I used my FP as soon as I got off for a second ride. I really need to watch all of my Star War movies again. I know I had 2 different scenes. One had I love Yoda and one had Don't like Darth Vader. I know on one trip we went to a planet with snow and ice and At-At Walkers and on the other we were underwater and I think Jar Jar Binks was in it. You would never know that I saw all of the movies and was a Star Wars junkie many years ago. I know the main characters and then I'm lost.

I have a mission before my next trip. I am watching all of the movies again so I know what is going on and then spending my day on Star tours til I get sick of it trying to see how many different scenes I can do.

I knew I was eating while here so I wandered around debating what I wanted to get. I thought of seeing if I could get seated at Sci Fi or 50's Prime Time but in the end just headed over to ABC Commissary. I ordered the 1/3 lb Angus Cheeseburger and Fried Shrimp with fries and a large Iced Tea. with tax it was $13.19.


While I was eating my youngest DD texted me to tell me that Annette Funicello had died. I was saddened by the news as I remember her from the original Mickey Mouse Club and all of the Beach Blanket movies. As sad I was I was also glad that she was out of pain. After I finished eating I headed to the Writers Stop for a cookie to take with me to eat on the plane ride home. I then headed back to One Man's Dream. I wanted to say good-bye to Annette and Don Grady who had also passed away earlier in the year.




Seems silly I know but I was really saddened by the news and just wanted to see the exhibit there as I had skipped it earlier. I still had a little time before I had to leave so I went over to Animation Academy one more time. I had a short wait and this time we drew


I was shocked at how well Eeyore turned out. As I was drawing away I kept telling myself that no one would see this one. He didn't turn out to bad in the end. Then sadly I had to get moving. One last picture of the Sorcerers Hat


The long sad walk to the exit


Maybe next trip for these guys


It was getting late and the rental car had to be turned in at 5 PM. Sadly by 4:20 I was following this towards the airport


I lost the bus at a toll booth. I had to pay 2 tolls for a total of $2.50. At 5 PM I was at the Hertz return lot. I had a discussion with the girl over the gas tank not being filled. When I rented the car I opted for the Hertz refill at $3.10 a gallon. Much cheaper than on the road. I had it on my receipt but the girl checking the car in didn't have it on her paper work. Showed her mine and we were good to go.

I did curbside check-in and was on my way to security. I did way to much walking on the ankle so I was using my cane at this point. I had NO issues with TSA in Orlando unlike Philly. They were so helpful getting me through the scanner and on my way. I got a chicken wrap and drink at McDonalds and was at the gate to await my flight home. I was still preboarded and was happy about that as I could get a seat without dealing with people banging my ankle. I had 2 boys about 12 as seat mates. They amused each other and played video games. No pics going home because I just wanted to read my book.

Once we landed I called my DH and hobbled to baggage claim. Last trip he came in to help me this trip he let me struggle on my own. He also came to get me in my car not his truck. I hate when he drives my car as he messes up all my mirrors and the seat. Somehow he forgot he was picking me up til the last minute and forgot to get gas,

Overall it was a great trip. Last update will be some final thoughts.

 

[Lesprivate]

What a great solo trip, you got a lot done on that last day. I have never gone on TOT and never will . I wish they would do something with the backlot tour it is so lame now.

 

[tazdev3225]

What a great solo trip, you got a lot done on that last day. I have never gone on TOT and never will . I wish they would do something with the backlot tour it is so lame now.

It really was a great trip. I swore I would never do TOT and didn't for the longest time, now I enjoy it.

Backlot Tour is beyond lame. It used to be enjoyable now I don't know. I only did it to see whether they improved it after the later refurb. They didn't.

 

[scottny]

I love IASW. Classic.
That cup is cute but a little pricey.
Lucky you eating there.
Nice pic with Ariel.
Dumbo ride pics are good. Love the character pics with you in them.
I have been told all of those on COP also. I have taken pics with no flash and also videotaped the entire show.
You and Vinny need to ride Buzz together. Who can get the lowest score. LOL
I couldn’t see who was doing Push when I went.
I missed the Country Bears this trip. Nice pics there too.
Yum. Love Pecos Bill.
Yikes! 45 minutes for POTC.
I hate rude teens.
LOL. Walrus’.
LOL. He hung up the phone. Mikey is fun.
LOL. I know that person who was obsessed with every car and yet he will not drive one.
Hey. She does not look like Amy. LOL.
I love me some Star Wars. Episode 1 is on Spike tomorrow night. Not the greatest but still technically SW.
That idea of riding and seeing how many scenes you is awesome.
It does seem like you had a great time.
All caught up again.

 

[tazdev3225]

OK Time to wrap this TR up. I have some final thoughts to share.

On site vs off site - There are some positives and negatives to both. Staying on site is more expensive, that is the biggest negative. However, the convenience and the total experience of being in Disney make it worthwhile. Off site means driving and dealing with traffic. You do get to pass under the entrance every day though. I will not stay off site again unless it means I get to stay with my aunt. That was the best experience. Family means more than anything to me. Since the premise for the trip was my aunt's surgery I am happy to report she healed beautifully.

A word of warning to all who rent a car. Fill the tank yourself. I was charged $82.00 for 8 gallons of gas. I fought the charge and thankfully rented through AAA who intervened with Hertz. They refunded $41 as that what was the estimate on my receipt but it was still more than the $3.10 a gallon I was quoted.

Flower & Garden - It was everything I remembered and more. The topiaries are beautiful. The Flower Power Concert was, to borrow Mikey's phrase, AWESOME! Adding the F&W to it was pure genius. I hope to get to Disney again just to experience this again.

Weather and Crowds - What can I say it was perfect. One day of rain and then beautiful blue skies with temps in the 70's. The only thing I need to remember is that this is Florida. I will sunburn - even in rain. Wear Sunblock!!! The crowds were low or I just didn't notice them. It was a perfect week.

Pictures - This was a big part of my trip. I annoy my family with my picture taking. I am told often that taking pics on the rides is a waste. I will admit I enjoyed the rides without taking pics but I will go back to taking them. I enjoy the challenge of getting a great picture on a dark ride.

Going Solo - I love traveling with my family. I enjoy spending time with my DH but honestly I absolutely loved being alone. I did what I wanted at the pace I set. If I stopped and took pictures of butterflys for an hour I didn't feel like I was being an annoyance to anyone. I saw what I wanted to see and didn't get upset if I missed anything. I am honestly hoping to go solo again one day. It was amazing.

And an update on my aunt who had me under so much stress that I needed this trip. She spent 3 more weeks in rehab after I came home. She was discharged to her house and has gone back to the hospital twice since then. The cleaning lady is taking care of her. I am barely being spoken to because I dared to question her treatment and the cleaning lady. I also think the cleaning lady has turned my aunt against me. I have had a hard time coming to terms with this as I feel that I let her down and not protected her. I have slowly come to realize I can't protect her from herself. She has made her choice and I have to live with it. She has been given less than 2 years to live and that is hard. I want her to be happy. If the cleaning lady is doing that fine. I am not happy but I am fighting a losing battle.

So overall my trip was a huge success. I got away from all of the stress I was under for a few days and had a blast. I am sad it had to end so soon. BUT if you look at my signature you can see that I will be going back in time for Christmas decorations. I rented DVC points for the first time and am really looking forward to that. I'll have some time alone with my DH and will be spending time with some wonderful friends. So look for a TR again sometime in December.

All that read this, and especially all of you who took the time to comment, thanks for joining me on my trip. I really hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed sharing it.

 

[tazdev3225]

I love IASW. Classic.
It really is classic.

That cup is cute but a little pricey.
Lucky you eating there.
I hope to do lunch there again in December and yeah cute but not worth that much

Nice pic with Ariel.
Dumbo ride pics are good. Love the character pics with you in them.
Thanks I really hate the pics with me in them but then I have always hated having my picture taken. Could be why I like TAKING pictures instead.

I have been told all of those on COP also. I have taken pics with no flash and also videotaped the entire show.
I have too.

You and Vinny need to ride Buzz together. Who can get the lowest score. LOL
That would be a contest. We both are lousy at that ride

I couldn’t see who was doing Push when I went.
I looked and actually heard him talking as I passed him

Yikes! 45 minutes for POTC.
I love POTC but not enough to wait that long.

I hate rude teens.
I do too.
LOL. Walrus’.
Seriously there are signs around that say what is in there.

LOL. He hung up the phone. Mikey is fun.
I love my Mikey. I told him the story I put in the TR and he just laughed.

Hey. She does not look like Amy. LOL.
I love me some Star Wars. Episode 1 is on Spike tomorrow night. Not the greatest but still technically SW.
I will have to check it out.

That idea of riding and seeing how many scenes you is awesome.
Join me. You can help me ID the characters.

It does seem like you had a great time.
All caught up again.

I had a great time. Can't wait til December now. And you are behind again as I posted my closing thoughts after this.

 

[jecskc]

Bummer that your trip is over.

I am glad your aunt that had surgery is doing well, but that is sad about your other aunt.

I can't ride Star Tours it makes me sick.

I rode Tower of Terror with DS a few trips ago and I was shaking for 30 minutes afterwards. I might be better if I try it again now that I know what to expect.

I loved all of your photos !! They were really nice.

The weather really was beautiful.

$82 for a tank of gas ??? What the ....?? It seems like you are always hearing a story these days of the car rental places screwing some one over.

My ankle is always killing me, still. I feel like it will never heal even though it has come a long way. So I know how you feel when you say it was hurting and swelling. Keep me posted on your progress.

Looking forward to reading about your trip in December and seeing some more of your amazing photos !!

 

[tazdev3225]

Bummer that your trip is over.
I hate when the trip ends but at least I knew I had a date to go back.

I am glad your aunt that had surgery is doing well, but that is sad about your other aunt.
Thanks it was minor surgery and she did bounce bacl quickly. My other aunt has really had me down. I just feel angry and helpless at the same time. Then I get angry because my parents cannot understand my feelings and tell me to just forget it all.

I can't ride Star Tours it makes me sick.
I'm curious to see how many times I can ride before I get sick. I just really want the challenge.

I rode Tower of Terror with DS a few trips ago and I was shaking for 30 minutes afterwards. I might be better if I try it again now that I know what to expect.
I always hated those types of rides. Now I get so focused on taking a picture right before the drop that I forget it happens.

I loved all of your photos !! They were really nice.
Thank you. I love taking pictures and it's another one of those things that my family doesn't get. I am planning a trip to England with my mom and she has banned my camera. It's going anyway.

The weather really was beautiful.
It really was. A great time of year to visit

$82 for a tank of gas ??? What the ....?? It seems like you are always hearing a story these days of the car rental places screwing some one over.
Yep, that was for just slightly over 8 gallons of gas. They did cut the price in half to the estimated price for 13 gallons so I was still over charged. Won't make that mistake again.

My ankle is always killing me, still. I feel like it will never heal even though it has come a long way. So I know how you feel when you say it was hurting and swelling. Keep me posted on your progress.
I have been back in the boot for almost 6 weeks now and it is still swollen and sore. It's also making a weird clicking by the tendon. I go back to the ortho on wednesday so we'll see what he says then. Hope yours is feeling better soon.

Looking forward to reading about your trip in December and seeing some more of your amazing photos !!

Thanks I can't wait til the December trip. All the Christmas decorations and some time with my DH alone. I also have a few things planned to surprise him. There will be plenty of photos.

Thanks for reading along Susan.

 

[Lesprivate]

I will have to remember the gas tip if we ever rent a car $82 for that little car

DVC is the best, I would rent out points except I never have enough we actually ran out of points this year for our August trip so we put Emily, Eian and Andrew in ASMovies.

I love taking photos but it annoys my family. Can't wait to see your the photos from your December trip.