My DSD came for a visit & didn't stay for our trip to WDW??? Update 1/13Kadani Villag

[SimmerBaggins]

Don't tell him, Melissa --!! I don't think he even knows it exists!

ScotsMinnie, you are a good guesser -- I am impressed!

Okay...I don't have time today, but I will try to get to it tomorrow...!! Thanks for posting.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Well, it has been guessed: next up:

Despite the nice, wet area of the garden, and the fact that we had just stopped by the store to pick up an item, we were still hunting shade and cooler temps. When we saw this, I didn't want to miss what they had done with this exhibit from the first movie.

We did see the first movie's exhibit, where the wardrobe opened and you walked into a snowy forest -- then you had an encounter with the White Witch, who was very convincing. But that was pretty much it...and a long wait for it, too. So, I was anxious to see that they had done MORE, this time. There was a line to get in, already, but there seemed to be TWO lines, the second of which didn't appear to have anyone in it. So, we asked the nearby CM what was up with the second (non-existent) line, and he told us that was to see Prince Caspian.

Who wouldn't want to see Prince Caspian?? Those people in the OTHER line, that's who!! (well, maybe they had already seen him...) So, we got in the other line, and the door opened...and there he was.

Very charming, indeed. He put my girls completely off...they were used to Princesses, but Princes??

He was an utter doll with them...check out my DD's face.

We ended our enchanted time with the Prince, who had oo'ed and ahh'd over my girls, and got in line for the event. Suddenly, I spotted a possible sniper on the building!!

Thankfully, we ducked inside for the pre-event. There wasn't much to see...some sketches, a screen...eh.

Once inside, it was mainly clips of the movie; since we had already seen the film, there wasn't too much excitement over it, anymore. But, once the table cracked, that was pretty kewl.

Then we were turned loose to look at the costumes, and such.

I really liked this costume; then again, what woman hasn't imagine herself in leather and chainmail, ready to do battle???

And, the wicked wand!!

More to come...!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Well, we were tired -- it had been a long day, and we still had FPs for RnRC for 9:15pm. We headed out of the park...it seemed kind of strange to be by ourselves after having most of the week with the Skinners.

We decided, before we left the park, that we would check with customer service to see how many food credits we had. My DH had a good time teasing the CMs.

You know, I just bought a book the other day -- the Unofficial guidebook to WDW, With Kids. It tells you to go take a nap. Look at my family...we are the only ones in the line back to AKV, and the kids look absolutely beat. (My DH looks rejuvenated by his lively discussion with the CM)

So...can you guess what's next? Well, my DGD, who rarely EVER decides she's tired enough to sleep...(and this is the afternoon, mind you):

Even my DD curled up into a cocoon and went to sleep. Gladly.

After our glorious rest, we went down and grabbed a bite to eat at The Mara. We visited the little restroom by the pool, and I snapped a shot of my lively girls.

Next up, RnRC! Now, let me explain again, in case you forgot:

My DGD always has a case of "can't be left out" -- which is so strong, she'll go on any ride, and did -- go on every ride. Now, we told her this ride was extreme -- more extreme than EE. We described it to her...over & over & over, because she kept asking about it. Here's my kids, posing in front:

When we went on ToT, she was TERRIFIED. She pretty much said she would not go on it again...that day. Maybe some other day. But, she swore she liked it...and swore and swore she liked it. We ALL KNEW: she liked the fact that she was ALIVE after the ride. But you really couldn't convince her of this, because she has that issue that I described.

Here's my DD, posing:

Now, my DD and I were pumped, and we were infecting my DH, who was excited to go on RnRC, too. My blood's pumping, just thinking about it!! DD and I were talking excitedly, laughing, etc...and here, we get to see Aerosmith, telling us they were going to send us a limo to get us there...!

OMGosh...we were so excited. We went into the next room, and I am hurriedly putting away my stuff, and we see the next coaster. I told Emily: Watch it!! Then, they take off -- SCREAMING!! Jordan and I can hardly contain ourselves -- fear & excitement!!!! Emily doesn't have much to say about it, but she's still a "go."

We get into the gates, and she looks at her papaw, and says, "I think I changed my mind."

"Oh, no," says my DH, "You are going. I want to go, and I'm not going to miss this -- you wanted to go, said you were going, and now you are going with me." So, without much more fuss, Emily gets in the coaster, and we all begins stowing our stuff, hurriedly, breathlessly, excitedly!!! The coaster rolls into position, and I can't hear anything but that music, and I'm looking at Jordan, and then we are leaning back, jamming to the music and watching those lights....and when we take off, I am SO READY!!!! Woohoo!!!!

I heard afterward that Emily screamed, "I AM TIRED OF THIS RIDE!"

Jordan and I yell out at each other, scream and woohoo our way through the ride!! And afterward, Emily is ready to get away from that coaster...and ever afterward declares that that ride was her favorite. But we all know: because she lived through it.

More later!!

 

[jmskinner]

It's kind of sad that they haven't done more with the Narnia attraction. I'm guessing it won't be there much more since they dropped the 3rd movie. Heard another company was making it though.

That so sounds like Robert to perk up giving someone a "hard" time. He loves to pic on people. At least he isn't as bad as my Dad, he told a CM "Pull my finger and let's see if we can clear out this line!" Yup, Robert would never do something like that, but he does like to pick on people.

Love the pics of the girls crashed back in the room. I love that benefit of staying onsite. I know if we stayed offsite, we wouldn't want to drive back.

Emily's reaction to RnRC, . So she likes the ride if she lives through it. Well, she must like them all. I didn't realize you ended up being there that late.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Oh, yeah, and we aren't done, yet!

Emily did like everything she rode, with the exception of the Stitch ride. Her explanation of why she didn't like it: the smell of the chili hot dog. I laughed -- who doesn't like a chili hot dog, even if it's second hand?

I can hear your dad saying that to the CM -- classic. It would have been good to see him.

I am so looking forward to naps at Kadani village. What nap can be better??

 

[SimmerBaggins]

After RnRC, we decided to look around and take advantage of the low attendance at The Magic of Disney Animation. I love small lines! We went right up to the front of the theatre to watch this guy talk about Mushu.

We've seen it before, but I like how they interact with each other...even though it's scripted.

Afterward, we went into the "studio" and looked at a lot of the Princess & the Frog stuff -- this was before the hype had really started, so we had no idea what we were looking at. Sorry about the quality of the pictures -- I had turned the flash off so I wouldn't get that in the glass.

This one came out pretty good - and you can see my hubby in the glass.

I've heard that the animators really used to come here and work (and you could watch them work), but that they didn't use it anymore. So I was really surprised to see someone at work...maybe they changed their minds? It was neat, though.

So, you can see the sign on the wall -- it makes you wonder if that is a real sign for workers, or just for us to see...?

There was a set-up for the movie "Up" -- the last time we were there, it was for the movie "Cars."

Then, came my most favorite part of this section, where you can go draw at the direction of a CM artist!!! We've done it three times, now -- the first time was Donald Duck, second time was Mickey Mouse (Robert was the oldest in the room and got to choose the character, and the CM gave him his autographed picture), and this time it was Pooh! I love this!

The girls liked it, too. I would recommend doing this if your family has any artistic talent at all.

Jordan's favorite Up character:

It was late, and because the show was completely overcrowded and ridiculous to wait for (people lined up in the main street to get into it), we decided to skip it and go. We stopped at the villian store and used up our snack credits to get some treats, and when we came out, I saw this billboard. As it looked like my DGD, I snapped the pic.

Our last pic in the park:

Tomorrow is still another day at WDW, even if we don't have park tickets...so, more to come!

 

[jmskinner]

Ok trying this from my phone while waiting on Jacob in therapy. We have never done that drawing with the CM will have to try it. Of course Jacob just likes to draw Transformers. Wonder what you did with the rest of your trip.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

As much as Jacob likes drawing, he might really like that -- they go really slow, and allow you to keep up with them (but they don't ask if everyone is done with each step -- I think that would take too long).

We had a late afternoon flight the next day, so we went back and packed our stuff for the night. Even though we knew we had a little time left the next morning, it was bittersweet, nonetheless.

Along with the stuff we had bought along the way for ourselves and for others, we packed back up the little items I had brought for the kids' surprises in the mornings. If you remember, I had bought some Disney merchandise before the trip (got some great deals on T-shirts online), and every morning, they would wake up to some new treat. Jordan was used to this routine, and it was harder to give her things that made her excited, but Emily wasn't aware that it would be happening -- she caught on, quickly. Pretty much all the Disney t-shirts you saw them wearing were gifts, and there were stuffed Mickey merch, and pins, etc. As our funds were limited somewhat for this trip, those little things made the trip more special for them.

I had all the photos from the list I had created at work for my co-workers -- mission accomplished!

The two things I kept bugging my DH about was that I wanted to see the rest of Animal Kingdom Villas -- the Kadani part, since we had stayed in Jambo the entire time -- and, the Bay Lake Towers. This was right before they were open...we had heard that they were having a special showing of BLT for DVC sales, so even though we had NO intention of buying, I still wanted to look at them.

So, just to forwarn you, this will be what the rest of our trip will be like. This, truly, is fun for us -- just like looking at a new house! Not only that, but we knew the DVC salespeople (are they called CMs? I can't remember!) are very warm, friendly people...and so they will be!

Join us soon for a trip around DVC properties...hope you will enjoy it!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

We packed up our suitcases and left them with the bell hop -- checked out, and took our necessities with us (you know, a monkey, a few snacks, camera, etc). I was excited to walk over to the Kadani part of AKV -- it was a nice little walk. I would say that Kadani is a much smaller version of Jambo; although it's newer, I wouldn't say it was better, except for one notable difference (later).

This is the entrance inside of the lobby.

This is the view, turning around. I found that Kadani is more PEACEFUL feeling. It's quieter. More serene than Jambo.

Can't you feel it? You really feel closer to the savanna.

We went up to the DVC salesperson and asked to see a room. They are more than accommodating to show you the rooms -- we didn't pretend anything...we told her that we had just stayed in Jambo, owned points at AKV, and wanted to see the differences in the rooms between Jambo and Kadani.

While we waited on the room, we walked around and saw Sanaa.

The decor was beautiful...

And here we go to the room:

And, what do you know? I goof and don't get a picture of the room! Well, it looked pretty much like our other room except for two small details: there was a little bar in the kitchen with two stools, AND -- a second bathroom!! Who couldn't use a second bathroom?? So, trust me, if you want to stay at AKV and can't decide on Jambo or Kadani -- there are pros and cons. Pros at Jambo: you're close to all the resort action, you're close to breakfast, and the two good restaurants as well as the large pool. Negative for Kadani on those. Pros for Kadani: TWO bathrooms for the 1 Bdrm, and you have a really cool water park -- now, you can go to either pool when you stay at AKV, but you're closer to the kid's stuff at Kadani. Both have their own bus stop...and Kadani's stop is always first.

Now, after the room, we went to see the water park. We still had our room keys, which were supposed to work on the gate...but the gate wouldn't open. This made me feel funny, like we weren't supposed to be here...and suddenly, I realized there was some guy on his room balcony, yelling at us!!

I stopped and tried to figure out what he was saying, as he didn't seem to be telling us to get the heck away from the gate! He was yelling for us to reach over the gate and pull the latch...I did so, and he seemed relieved. Then, he told us he'd had to tell several people to do this, because the gate was messed up! I was relieved, too!

There is a lot to look at in the Kadani water park. So much, in fact, that looking was all I did. So, I'm gonna try to use Allears.net's photos and make up for my silliness...

I think Jacob would like this water cannon fort!

I was impressed with Kadani's public restroom by the pool.

More, later!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

We finished up at the pool, and decided to head over to Bay Lake Towers. The bus stop for Kadani was right across the street. It's not nearly as huge as the one for the Jambo house is, and there was no one but ourselves, for the moment. Here we are, waiting for the bus...(I know, not really exciting!):

Here is Emily's choice for her last snack at WDW. I think she was really happy to get it out, and was savoring her moment with it.

Here we are, on the bus (video). Of course, because the bus comes first to Kadani, we had to stop by the Jambo House. Just a little light fun...!

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[jmskinner]

Hey girl! Finally caught up again. Love the pics. This is the one we are staying at in June right? Jacob will love the pool area, if we don't end up at the parks we can just take him there, get us some drinks and hang out. We are already trying to plan our weekend together in June folks. Wish I could stay longer in June but Jacob will still be in school and we are already having to take him out of school early on the last day because Kara's graduation is 8:00am on Friday morning.

I have actually persuaded Jonas to go to MK this weekend, but I haven't been feeling well the past couple of days. I think the sunshine will help though. The funny part is, we have to figure out how to get there. Due to the farmers draining all of the underground water to protect their crops we have sinkholes popping up all over this one area and it happens to be on the way to WDW. I4 is down from 4 lanes to 1 lane just outside of Tampa, so not going that way and then this morning one of the alternate routes had a sinkhole show up, so it is now closed.

Looking forward to the pics of BLT Vickie and as always, a great report!

Hey, do you think you will do one for the next trip?

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Yes, this is where we'll be staying...I'm so EXCITED!!! And, yes...I will blog. I wonder if my camera skills will be improved over this trip. I definitely will be more aware of "this will be great for the blog" moments!

Actually, one picture I didn't show is a really cool bar by the pool, so when you take Jacob to the water park, you'll have drinks at hand!

I am sorry you're not feeling well...hope you feel better soon, esp if MK is on the line!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

We got off the bus at MK. Do you know how really sad it is to go by, and know you cannot go in? It would be different if we could go in but didn't...but we were glad to see the Kingdom, if at but a distance.

Happily, we were greeted by a very beautiful view, harolded by a vivacious mockingbird.

We missed the monorail by a few seconds. I find that I am picture happy.

I find it interesting that Emily must always be looking into the lens of the camera when I snap the shot, even at her own peril.

Once on the monorail, Jordan and I take our small joy at hearing the phrase we memorized years ago, both in English and in Spanish:

"Please stand clear of the doors...por favor mantenga se alejadro de las puertas." (spelling could be off...)

I'm loading the video of entering the Contemporary Resort...soon edited & linked!

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[SimmerBaggins]

Once we got off the monorail, we weren't sure how we were going to get to BLT. We went down to the mall level and looked around.

We didn't need to worry -- DVC had a large setup just waiting for folks to come speak to them! There were little chairs sitting around some tables with a tv ... a nice, friendly guide came to talk w/us. He was from England, and informed us that we had missed the mass invitation to view the rooms. However, we could still see the rooms (yeah, we knew that wouldn't be a problem), and he would be happy to get us in to talk with a salesperson (not that we really WANTED to, but we were curious what the deal was).

On the way to the bridge to BLT, here's the sign that said there was still construction going on.

In order to get onto the bridge, the host had to give a code; not sure if that still exists. There was even a guard! Here's a shot from the bridge...beautiful views!!

A quick view of the other side of the bridge:

And a better view:

The whole bridge has speakers, which DURING THE FIREWORKS (!!), you can hear Jiminy Cricket speaking!! I couldn't believe they pipe that in...so incredible! Here's a shot of one of the speakers:

We made it over into the building! Not terribly exciting, and I didn't get a picture of the elevator, but nonetheless --!

Here's a shot from the elevator lobby (the other view from where those people were standing):

This is the backside view of the towers -- note the shiny monument telling you the room numbers. I love the font.

Here's what my DH was looking at!

Next, on to the room!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

This is our DVC host; he was really nice and talkative...see the empty hall behind him? That's where we're going. There's very few folks around.

Just think about it -- this whole, big building, and a handful of people (including us) are here...wow.

Did you see the hidden Mickeys?

I LOVE this font (yes, I said it again!). But I thought it was rather humorous that they have the number of the room twice. Yes, yes, I know it's for the blind (the braille part), but did they need to print the number again, as well?

Let me just say: if one of you gets this room, I'm extremely jealous.

They stun you with the huge open window in the living room -- yes, this is the suite.

Everything is very mod -- I know this isn't a great picture, but you get an idea of how big the kitchen is, and how they used the recessed lighting for effect.

This picture looks like I'm standing on a stool...I'm not that tall. So, probably, there's a raised area and the den is sunken.

This is obviously a "lake" view suite.

This is the master balcony. Note that you can access it from the den as well as the bedroom. (I believe I pulled aside the curtain to see this)

The master...

(the not-so-hidden Mickeys, along with the "comfortably" hidden Mickeys)

Okay, I've run outta time tonight...more later!!

Vickie

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Turning around from the master bed, you see -- into the master bath! If...you...can focus...to the right...uhhh...

My DGD has an invisible umbilical cord to the camera!

And look at der bunny on der faucet!! Hee...!

And here is the master shower. What I have after that is a video, which I don't show, showing that this has a DUAL shower head. That's right, folks -- what everyone wants when there are TWO peo-- uh, what everyone really wants in their shower!

And here we go, up the stairs to the other bedrooms!

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And look -- you can look down on the goings-on in the den without leaving your bedroom!

Pretty cool view from the second story:

I think my family was a little tired of looking after this...not that they didn't have fun! But the little couch here looked inviting...I believe I joined them after this photo.

Next, they told us they would escort us to the lounge to look around and wait for the salesperson, who would tell us what the "deal" for the day was...well, okay.

 

[jmskinner]

Great pics Vickie and thank you for the tour. Hopefully I will get to stay there one day. Hmmm trying to set up something with all of Jonas' family, some of us could fit in there. Don't see that happening. Looking forward to hearing about the lounge.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Thanks!! I'm hoping to get done with the rest of this by the end of the week...then do we start a PTR on our upcoming June trip? I'm afraid my TR will be much bigger on that end than your part... Actually, just a weekend for you guys is par for the course!

I'm still trying to find out if Jordan's friend is coming with us. Her parents aren't talking to me, much.

 

[jmskinner]

Wait, did I read that correctly, I know I am getting old and probably need glasses but did Vickie just mention a PTR???? Start it any time girl, you know I am there!!!! And hopefully some others will follow.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

The lounge was beautiful -- that modern look is kind of retro, if that makes sense! Kind of like the Jetsons.... There are a few people hanging around from the vestages of the huge viewing they had scheduled for the day, so we were right at the tail end of the process.

Disney comes up with some of the most amazing chandeliers (sp?)!!

This mural is amazing -- you can see right through it in the daytime. Very unique of Disney to use the monorails to convey a "spacey" kind of feel (again, Jetsons!). The place right in front of it is the bar. They had a couple of people who were giving away free non-alcoholic drinks, and when they saw us newbies, one asked if we were hungry. Hungry? Oh, yes! They went back and got us some excellent finger foods, which did wonders to revive my family.

I don't know what ever happened to Irky, but here's a picture she wouldn't like. Our guide had us step out of the lounge to the patio, where there were some tables and an excellent view of MK. This is where a bunch of people now gather every night (in addition to that nice bridge) to watch the fireworks. But for now, it was mostly populated by these large crows.

I call them the "negative birds." Mainly because their distinctive call is "UH-uh." When I was in field training at Tyndall AFB a LONG time ago, there were hundreds of these negative birds, telling me it couldn't be done..."Uh-uh!!" I had to strive to keep positive thoughts.

Anyway, back to the patio! Here is a video of what we are looking at...along with the fact that I keep getting distracted by the birds. Don't laugh.


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