Nothing to See Here...

[bumbershoot]

Wowie, that's a great reply from the Disney lady!!!!!

 

[Disgram23kids]

Wow Sherry!!! That's great that they are giving you a "free" night and the extra nights at such a reduced rate. I'd definitely take advantage of that.

Really enjoying your trip report. Love the trash can incident. I'm so graceless that I'm sure the trash casn would have landed in the street with a big bang and everyone looking at me.

Loved all the decorations at Reindeer Round Up and sorry we just didn't make it there during our visit. If my DGS hadn't gotten sick, we would have been able to get so much more done. Can't wait to read more.

 

[JH87]

That's great news about PPH Sherry!!!
You have sooo many pictures! I feel like I've experienced DLR at Christmas without even really going!
Of course, I am still planing on making it there for the 2011 Holiday season

You know what I was wondering...seeing your photos of the ducks at DLR....do these animals know exactly where they live? I mean, they live in Disneyland! They chose a pretty amazing spot to live.

 

[bumbershoot]

You know what I was wondering...seeing your photos of the ducks at DLR....do these animals know exactly where they live? I mean, they live in Disneyland! They chose a pretty amazing spot to live.

You should see the birds at WDW. Ducks, and cranes and egrets and all sorts of "exotic" to me birds.... Lucky birds!

 

[Belle Ella]

Sherry got a stealing!! Sweet!!

 

[Sherry E]

Well, you’ve heard about the Ice Cream Episode. You’ve heard about my excellent, totally unexpected ‘gift’ from the PPH to make up for their mistake, and are hanging in there as I post many, many photos and installments.

Okay, so it’s time for me to hunker down here and reply to the fine folks who have stuck with me (or just joined in) on this TR.

I hope no one is minding the sort of 'ongoing-ness' of it all...and all the endless photos...because...well, I have many, many more photos and stuff to share! We're only on Day 2 of this baby, and we are still early into Day 2 at that! We still have window displays to conquer. We still have my pitiful attempt at trying to capture the faint traces of 'snow' on camera. I think I even have some more GCH stuff that's coming up.

Day 3 will involve the DLH, ToonTown, NOS, the IASWH area, and whatever else I threw in there. Somewhere in there I have DTD photos too, but I can't recall if those were Day 2 or 3!

Day 4 will have the last little trickle of photos - mostly from DCA.


You all understand, I'm sure. Last year I only did 2 one-day trips and the reports could only go on for so long or have so many photos given the time constraints. This was my first 'real' DLR trip in 2 years, with multiple days, and my first-ever trip that included 2 all-solo days. So I made up for lost time with my photo-taking, as you can tell!

But I find that, generally, most people have a 'the more photos, the better' attitude, so I don't think I will disappoint in that area. So you'll forgive me if my 12/12 - 12/15/10 DLR Trip Report carries into December 2011!!

[I'm now waiting for the screams of terror and the sound of rapid footsteps as people run from my TR and never look back.]

.... I am a person who does not like to stay at the park very late at night (like around 11 to midnight). Than I can go first thing in the morning since most of the guests won't show up until around 11am to noon. It is so nice to be in a park when you can take so many pictures without any people in the background.

When I look at touringplans.com for that weekend, it is low crowds that week and it should be enjoyable. I just checked the current refurbishments and attraction closures on mouseplanet and saw that IASW will be closed during my visit. It said that it will be closed from Jan 18-27.

I'm about to read part six of your TR.

Bret - I agree. It's so nice to not have any people in the background of photos. When I was at DLR a couple of weeks ago, I was actually talking to another guest in NOS about that very thing. Her group saw me aiming my camera at something, and she tried to get out of the frame so I wouldn't have them in my picture. I appreciated that she tried to step out of the way because a lot of folks don't even try. I know we all end up in other people's photos accidentally sometimes, as they do in ours, but most of us, when we clearly see that someone is taking a photo, we will step out of the way. Some folks, however, can see what you are doing and they will not even move around you. They just tromp on through! I said to her, "It's all right. It comes with the territory in Disneyland."

And I have a much harder time staying up late too. I am more of an early riser, so the early MM's work for me.

That's interesting to hear about the dates of the IASW closure. So they are leaving up IASW Holiday up until 1/18, it sounds like, while they take down Haunted Mansion Holiday. I thought it always took more time to dismantle the IASWH stuff. I'm glad they can get it done in 9 days now!

Yay for you!

I am one who says HH, because I doubt that most would appreciate "good yule" or "have a fabulous solstice!" And I HATE that some people think that HH is ONLY for those trying to be PC. Nope, it's to be *inclusive*. Saying just the one phrase is exclusive, but so many different groups of people have something to celebrate during this time period that I think it's nicer to be INclusive....

Molly - I was just picturing the perplexed looks on some faces if someone said "good yule" or "Have a fabulous solstice"!! If people are rubbed wrong by Happy Holidays - even though it is the holiday season - I can't imagine the reaction to those other two greetings! (Although my Wiccan friends will totally get it!) Happy Holidays is totally inclusive, as you said. It is the holiday season - encompassing many holidays - and we can't assume which holidays anyone celebrates - so saying Happy Holidays is perfectly appropriate! I mean, personally, I don't mind if someone says Merry Christmas to me because that happens to be what I celebrate. But it's 2011, almost, and you can't assume that everyone celebrates that - or only that. Maybe people are super excited for Thanksgiving and New Year's too - should they be left out of the greetings because it's not Christmas?

I am truly enjoying your trip report. I am sorry about the pain, I know how pain can make a trip kind of unbearable.

Michele - You know first-hand what it's like to be ailing on a DLR trip. I can deal with some pain - I deal with it every day - but sometimes it gets to a certain level that is beyond acceptable, and then it's hard to push through. When it's pain that directly affects my walking around, then a day at Disneyland is not going to help it!

Ever since Jazz mentioned it this has been on my LIST. Glad to hear you liked it too. Just can't decide if Colton's first Jungle Cruise should be day or night? Any opinions from the two of you that have done it at night?

Sherri - I do really enjoy JC at night, but I would think for a young child's first time it should be daytime. Of course, you are already at DLR now - and will be back soon - so you have already done JC by now. Was it daytime?

Merry Christmas Sherry!!



I'm not too easy to get rid of, lol

Um, I'm not sure if it was me. My MM strategy is to always go on a Saturday if it's available whether it's your first day or last day. It's usually the earliest opening time with a MM so I feel like there are less people there than a Sunday, Tuesday or Thursday and because it's a weekend it's usually more crowded after opening so it helps me feel like I got a lot done on that day. If that makes any sense. It I'm not there on a Saturday I prefer to use it the first day so that I don't accidentally sleep in on my last day and miss it altogether.

Thank you - and belated Merry Christmas to you!

Yes, Jazz, that's what I remember - your comment about using the MM on the first day instead of the last for fear of sleeping in. I think that's a good outlook, and it makes a lot of sense. People are probably much more gung-ho to do a lot of things at the beginning of their trips than a few days in!

And I like the early Saturday MM's too.

Like you said Jazz if you only have one MM, I would choose the weekends since the park regular hours start at 8am and I would definitely go in the park at 7am if I have a MM. But if you are staying on-site, the extra hour does make a big difference if you want to go on specific rides. I thought that we should do MM for the first day in the morning since we will be tired later during the trip.

I agree, Bret - I was much more inclined to want to hit the MM on my first day at DLR than to do the second one. I think people get tired and then their plans for what they are going to do sort of change a bit as the trip goes along.

Merry Christmas Sherry!

I see I have a lot of catching up to do. It will have to wait, though. I just turned the computer on specifically to pop in here and wish you a Merry Christmas and to tell you that my husband gave me "The Year Without A Santa Claus" for Christmas! Guess he figured that if I'm going to have to pay a $2 late fee to the library we might as well own it to keep that unnecessary fee from happening again.

OK, off to pop a ham in the oven...

deej - Thank you and belated Merry Christmas to you, too! Your husband obviously knows what the priorities are in life!! Everyone must have "Year Without a Santa Claus" (and the Miser Brothers) in their collection!! I have it - but on VHS. So, really, it's like I don't have it! I have to get it on DVD or whatever new format has emerged by the time I get it.

I was so pleased to see that Build-A-Bear in DTD was honoring "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" with a display in their store, and some of their stuffed creations, I think, were from that Rankin Bass classic.

Did you catch any of the Rankin Bass marathon on ABC Family on, I think, Christmas Eve day? I put it on and couldn't stop singing, "I'm Mister Heat Miser" to myself, even though I identify with his brother!!

I appreciate your sticking with the TR even though you have been busy.

at parenting - in the parks especially! Ummm, I don't know how I do it either! I can say that the mommy drinks in DCA and DtD / hotels help tremendously

I agree w/you about Pooh and Monsters Inc. Totally cute rides that are just as good (if not betterIMO) as the rides in Fantasyland. Location , location , location !

Jungle Cruise is the BEST at night

Tania - If I were a mommy, I would probably have some mommy drinks nearby from time to time! I really feel for some of the parents - in DLR, especially. When your child decides to throw a tantrum and plop down on the floor/ground in the middle of the Emporium or in front of POTC, and you have to be the one to calm them down and pull them up as thousands of people are stepping all over or around you, I think a mommy drink is called for!

Yep - I think the Pooh ride would do much better in terms of lines if it were in FL, and Monsters, Inc. would do better if it moved into DL and out of DCA. It is tucked away where no one sees it. Then again, I am happy to be able to walk right on Pooh or Monsters, Inc., so I guess I'm glad that they are where they are!

It makes me wonder how the Little Mermaid ride will ultimately do in DCA. I think it seems misplaced in DCA. I think they need to have a Little Mermaid ride, for sure (21 years overdue), but I feel it would be a much better fit in DL. They can't put it there so it has to go in DCA. So I wonder if the location of it will work for it or against it in the long run. I know that it will be huge when it first opens because it's brand new. And it will probably have hideous lines during all of 2011 and 2012. But when the dust settles in DCA - literally and figuratively - and all the work is done, and people get used to all the new stuff so it's not as much of a novelty anymore, I wonder if the Little Mermaid will still have horrible lines or if it will lose its luster.

Excellent TR Sherry!!!
And I agree with what you said about the "Happy Holidays" thing....and the Merry Christmas guy.... kind of annoying when people don't repect the other holidays going on.
Can't wait for more!!

Hi, Jillian!! Thank you so much for joining in. I was surprised to see you here!

Yeah, that guy with his snarky "Merry Christmas" was funny. Silly man.

It is funny how different the decorations are between the two hotels. Does that car move? Or is it just decoration? Your view was amazing and that tree antennae topper is so cute. You need to send me a message on fb about how much I owe you and everything.

Michele - About the car at the GCH. I don't think it moves, but I could be totally wrong on that. Whenever I have seen it, it is sitting in the same spot. It reminds me of this one little pink hotel in Catalina that has a tricked out, old fashioned golf cart sitting in front of it for decoration year-round. The one at GCH seems as if it's there just for decoration, but who knows? Maybe after hours the valet guys take it for a wild spin!

.

Same thought! Not sure how I do it. And when I'm dealing with a problem child, it's almost always food related...which means that if hubby's there too, he's also probably having a food related problem. Which means that I'm dealing with two problems.

I gotta start bringing a flask with me to Disney parks...or making sure they both get proper food on a regular basis...nah, flask would be more fun.

Sorry Sherry, I can't read your day 2 yet, or what came below yet...just wanted full disclosure so you didn't feel sad that I didn't comment. I'll read it, just not right now.

It's okay, Molly! I appreciate you popping in to catch bits and pieces or comment here and there. You have a long WDW TR to work on. Lots of times what I have to do for other TR's is pop in to the current installment, and then when I am done with that, I go back and see what I missed. I never like to be too far behind, but I don't like to get too far ahead when I have older installments to read!! So if you're anything like I am, it's constantly an issue of finding time to rewind and fast forward, or fast forward and then rewind!

I think the idea of a flask at the Disney parks is one that could catch on like wildfire!! Do they sell any flasks with Mickey icons on them at any of the liquor-serving Disney parks?

Goo morning from DL! Don't stp th TR cuz I'm. Gone I popped in last night (about340am) keep thse stories & pics coming. Hope everyone had a merry Christmas you can all read about ours this weekend.

Belated Merry Christmas, Sherri! I have plenty more photos to come. At this rate, I really have no clue how long it will take me to finish this TR. It just may keep going on and on!

I hope you've been having a wonderful time at DLR. Have you seen the Rankin Bass/Rudolph display in Build-A-Bear?

Hey Sherry!

Just popping in for a quick sec - can't stay - great TR - will make specific comments later -

Merry, merry everyone! (One day late).

I'll be back later in the week. My mom has been here and it will take me few days to recover.

ETA: Oops, Happy, happy, I mean. Ha ha.

amamax2 - I can't wait for the specific comments, whatever they are! Belated merry, merry to you as well! Or happy, happy!!

I love the photos from the GCH! I am absolutely in love with that place. It's pretty cool how different so many trees can be. I'm more a fan of the GCH one.

Jazz - one thing I would say is that, if you have time during your epic DLR trip this week, try to catch the PPH tree in person before they take it down. Even though I'm sure you will still prefer the GCH tree, I think you will agree that the PPH tree looks much more beautiful and striking in person than it does in pictures. The blue and green-ish lights really glow and stand out in person - even from the parking lot, we noticed them. But they don't show up that way in photos. As for the DLH trees, eh....They've had better trees in the past. I saw most, if not all, of the DLH trees and I wasn't all that impressed.

....I did make a brief post several days ago but I wanted to get back and make some more comments. I was pleasantly surprised to see that I had some new material to read on this here report!

I just got through uploading one photo over at Photobucket and I do have to say that I do not like the "new and improved"! I am usually that way about most things anyway. It is very seldom that I find much of anything "new and improved" really much of any improvement at all. Why can't companies just leave things alone???? Anyway, I have to say that you must have a lot of patience to work so hard on getting all your photos uploaded with all the trouble you had. Whatever it takes for the report, right?

Funny how easy it is to get started on one thing and then find yourself taking photos of more of the same sort of things without even trying. I seem to go in cycles from one sort of item to another. For part of the day I might be smitten with foliage. Then I might get off on characters or architectural details, etc. That's one of the great things at DL. There is never a shortage of picture taking subjects! Gotta tell you that I will definitely have some pictures to add to some of the assorted quests if I ever finally get started on my trip report. I'm pretty sure I've got some of every one you've mentioned... even light fixtures like deejdigsdis suggested!

I love your way of celebrating the holidays in the park as you described it. If I were single and closer to DL I think it would be the perfect way to spend the holidays!

I am so glad you got to make it this year AND spend multiple days. I am happy for you that Shawn did end up going with you and the two of you got to enjoy each others company like some of your better days in the past. I am also really very excited that you went ahead and worked up the courage to become a solo park goer! It sounds as though you discovered the park in an all new way which I think will really be great for you whenever you look towards future trips. This way if you have any trouble finding a travel companion you will have no doubt in your mind that you can take on the park alone! Maybe next time you can even work up to that full week!


I've told you this before but after your great plug for Pioneer Pier, oops, I mean Paradise Pier I still think you really need to get a job in public relations! Your positive review of the hotel really makes it sound so appealing. I like the idea of a bright cheery place and always wonder why so many hotels choose to go with the dim, dark rooms? I've looked at the GCH and it looks very dimly lit. Not so sure I would like that. We may find out someday but I will save the details for later. I do agree for sure that PPH's tree is gorgeous! And, I also had no idea that you could end up with such a great view of CA from there!

I totally agree with you that arriving at the park via Main Street is the only sure way to get that magical feel! The monorail is handy for heading into DTD for lunch. However, the long wait in line usually ends up being just as long as it would take to actually go ahead and walk on down to the main gate. Needless to say, we don't ride the monorail all that often. As you know we seldom make it to the park in time for all the park opening festivities but it is still always special to start the day off on Main Street no matter when you arrive. Speaking of Main St. and magical... I loved seeing your photos with the cms and their Mickey gloves welcoming everyone in the morning! Too funny about the guy who you thought wasn't taking any pictures and the magical way they appeared on your camera! Sneaky fellow, wasn't he?

So what's up with Shawn and her dislike for princesses? I suppose she likes the more cuddly sort, right? My DD is not usually all that interested in the princesses either but she did surprise me this year and wanted to go see them at Ariel's. I was really annoyed after that lcharacter meal because I didn't check the settings on my camera from the night before so my pics didn't turn out so hot. Darn it! I should have shelled out the big bucks for the Disney package! Just like you wanted your Pluto pic from Goofy's. You would think we would learn! Thankfully you took plenty of photos and ended up with some nice ones.

I totally understand! Even with our extended trips no matter how much I get done I don't think I will ever be satisfied that we did enough! Guess that's a good thing in some sort of weird way so that it keeps many of us coming back for more. Now that you have figured out how to do this solo thing I am thinking that you are really going to find the extra alone time very beneficial to getting so many more things done on your to-do-list.

Thanks for the tip! I didn't end up using the Disney theme because it wouldn't let me put enough pictures on it but I did end up using some of their different templates and some of my Disney photos and ended up with a great personalized calendar for just the cost of shipping. You should go post the link on the coupon thread!

I had the same problem when we rode Storybookland! I know we must have rode it at least 1/2 dozen times and every time I ended up on the same darn side! The one time we had a somewhat uncrowded boat where I could actually see the side across from me I didn't bring my camera! I learned my lesson after that and took my camera no matter whether I wanted to or not!


Good one!
Another tip along the same line of doing things early in your trip.... get your Photopass pictures/group shots taken early in your trip! We put it off and ended up hardly getting any taken. The few that we did end up with were okay but not fantastic. We didn't end up with many to choose from which is really sad considering the amount of time we spent in the park! I wanted to get at least one night time shot in front of the castle but we kept putting it off and when the last day finally came we were so tired by the end of the day that no one wanted to take the time to stop before dragging ourselves back to our room. Another lesson learned!


Yep! I do indeed agree! Totally worth it for that 5 or 6 minutes of fun! LOL! I think I have decided that another part of the reason why we are willing to wait and so many others are too is simply because there is such a limited number of rides to ride in the park. If you don't go ahead and jump right in line you may find yourself wandering around with nothing else to do anyway! It will be interesting to see if after all the new improvements and new rides are finished if the line to TSMM will ever get even slightly shorter.


It was on my list but can you believe that I still have never made it in there! I keep thinking that I want to do the bread or tortilla tour too but so far they always end up getting displaced by a ride, a meal or our break for the day. Next time maybe I will at least get in one!


Evidently I've missed something!!!! I have't heard anything about this! When is this supposed to take place? No doubt Disney will do a new film right but I know my entire household loves this ride and will miss the original film if it goes.


So sorry that your body was being uncooperative. I generally end up with my share of pains too but you are exactly right that if you keep pushing yourself it does eventually usually get better.


I am enjoying revisiting your trip with you! A good way to get a Disneyland fix if you can't be there in person! It appears as though you have mastered the new camera. You have some really great pictures scattered throughout your report. I'm ready for the next installment now! Bring it on!

Hi, Marie! Belated Merry Christmas to you!

Thank you for taking the time to post. I find the same thing - when I need a DLR fix, it's good to follow along with long TR's.

I don't know if I have mastered the camera, but I just sort of have to tap in what photographic instincts I used to have long ago and try to get the camera to do what I need it to do. But there are still tons of features on there, as you know, that I have to figure out. Thank you for the compliment – I’m glad some of the photos are coming out all right.

Unfortunately, this pain issues I have are an everyday thing. It’s just that certain things aggravate it more – like a trip to DLR! And sometimes the pain is absolutely unbearable and sometimes it’s bearable. Sometimes I can push past it and sometimes I can’t.

I don’t know exactly when the Soarin’ film is supposed to change – or IF it will change for sure. But it’s something that has been rumored for the future – Soarin’ Over the World.

Oh, the tortilla and bread tours are fast walk-throughs! I mean, you can stand there and watch the film or do the stuff that takes time if you want, but basically, if need be, you can grab your bread sample or grab your tortilla sample and run!! It’s amazing to think that you were at DLR for 2 weeks and still missed out on things, and yet, it happens. As energy levels and enthusiasm levels dwindle during a trip, I think less gets done. Same idea for PhotoPass – it’s good to do it early on, because as the days wear on, people have lost that ‘gotta get in PhotoPass pictures’ enthusiasm.

The TSMM line had gotten down to about 30 minutes for a while (like last year) and maybe 40 minutes on some days. But when they closed TSMM for a month and a half this year to do something to it, when it reopened the line for it was horrendous, as if it was brand new again. I think that eventually the line will die down a bit, as there are more things to see in DLR and in DCA, specifically. But not any time soon!

I got the tip about the Snapfish calendar from someone else on the DIS – I can’t even remember who at the moment (maybe perlster?). They had a thread about it in the Community section.

Yes, always have your camera with you at DLR – you never know what you will see to photograph!

I don’t know why Shawn doesn’t care for the Princesses. She isn’t really gung ho on photos anyway. I am not a Princesses person, either – I have zero interest in doing the Ariel’s meal- but I will gladly pose with them when they approach us at Goofy’s. They never know who they will be approaching when they get an all-adults table, so I try to be as friendly as possible.

Yes, I think that entering DL via Main Street is the ‘real’ way to do it. There is so much to see on Main Street, anyway. I love the CM’s in their Mickey gloves, greeting everyone as they come in! I wouldn’t have known to look for that if deejdigsdis hadn’t told us about it in her TR. I think that is such an excellent little touch to make everyone smile.

You know what else I love (even though I have not been so fortunate to see it myself yet)? I absolutely ADORE that all the characters in DL come out as Disneyland is closing, and they wave goodnight to the guests. They stand up by the train area and some of them have their pajamas and nightcaps on! It’s their bedtime goodnight to everyone! What an adorable, magical idea to do that! That is another thing – just like having the CM’s greet the guests with Mickey hands at the start of the day – that is a special touch to bring smiles to the guests’ faces as they leave the park.

The GH is very dimly lit. You said you may find out about it in the future – are you thinking of becoming DVC members? The PPH is very nice, even though it is not as large as the DLH or GCH.

I tell you – if only Disney could hire me in PR, I could write up their Press Releases and their general information!

I didn’t really need courage to be at DLR alone so much as that I just needed to know for sure if friends were going or not, so I could either get in the mindset to be alone or be with other people! I was taking solo trips (to Catalina) 20 years ago! I love me some alone time! LOL! Sometimes I feel like being totally alone and sometimes I feel like I want company. The thing is, when I feel like I want company or want someone to go, people are flaky! Or when I haven’t figured in money for transportation, that’s when people will flake out. I already knew I would be perfectly fine to be alone at DLR for two whole days and that I would get tons of photos – and realistically, I probably could have done 2 more full days alone! Certain things I prefer to have company for – like character meals and rides. I wasn’t sure if I would feel weird about eating alone, and I felt a little odd, even though I have done it before in other places. But as for having the hotel to myself – excellent! As for having all kinds of time to roam freely and snap 1600 photos – excellent! I only wish I had gotten everything done that I wanted to do!

I was sad to not be able to see Jackie at all on this trip. That felt unnatural! But I was glad that Shawn snapped out of her weird mode long enough to show up. I won’t hold my breath about her for next year, though!! LOL!

But, thank you, Marie – I know you have been in my corner all along, and have been sending good thoughts to me so I would get to DLR. You’ve been one of my biggest supporters!

You are right – there is no shortage of things to take photos of in DLR. Anywhere you turn, you can find more things to photograph. So it’s easy to just jump ship and switch to something else when you get bored.

I can’t wait to see what kind of TR you come up with for the 2 week trip! We have to get that one going!

Oh, I hate Photobucket. I know I have been giving them a lot of activity in the last few days. I am sure I am about to get one of those pesky “Bandwidth Exceeded” messages. And my photos will be held hostage for a month. But I have to try to keep posting until that happens. I have way too many photos to NOT post!!

Pretty pretty pictures!

Thank you, Jazz!

I am cracking up at the plant guy and the security guy comments I think a lot of people don't get it when you take photos of anything else than your family/companions.

Tania – Not only did I have the plant guy and the security guy look at me strangely and make comments about my choice of photo subjects, but I had a couple more guys comment about other photos…we will call them the Window Guys. That’ll be coming up soon. And then a woman passed me in the GCH and commented on a light fixture I was shooting!! And there was some woman on Main Street who spotted me shooting something and commented on it!! The commenters were everywhere! It’s a good way to meet people and strike up conversations, I guess! At one point, when I ran up to get a picture of a little Christmas tree, I saw a CM looking at me oddly. I explained Tree Quest, and she smiled and nodded knowingly…as if I hadn’t been the first Tree Quest person to ever cross her path!! She even said, “Oh, you might want to get a photo from over here…this angle is better!”

I love being taken on the light fixture tour. Thank you. Great pictures.

I’m glad you like the lights, Michele! Again, that’s all thanks to deejdigsdis – the real light fixture aficionado who inspired me! I am only a temporary Light Quest person, but I can’t see it being an ongoing thing for me!!

Sherri, I am following your trip report and you have taken some wonderful photos. I think someday I would love to go by myself and take photos. I scrapbook and love to look at all the photos of those special little details that most people walk right by. Great job!!

Thank you again, Disgram23kids, for joining in! And thank you for the compliment. Going solo is definitely the best time to get all those photos of details. I’ve got some more goodies coming up that I think you’ll enjoy!

I used to think that scrapbooking was right up my alley because I love photos and photo albums and collecting souvenirs, etc. But I find that I don’t have the patience to do it and do it well. I see some of the amazing scrapbooks that others have done and I admire how creative they are. I know I could get into the creative aspect if I applied myself. I do have a creative side. I just don’t have a lot of patience for projects. I used to do a lot of photo projects in the old days but I don’t think I could do it now. Photo gifts are the best gifts, though, and scrapbooks are the best way to showcase the highlights of a trip or special events!

OK, I know this was a comment from a while back...but that is really funny! (Scrolling down with squinty eyes.)

Ahhhh...I'm all caught up! Sherry, I am loving your report and all of your pictures. So many comments to make...where should I begin...

First...your "moment". The "I am here!" moment. That is usually my moment as well, but my last trip it was the "Here You Leave..." for some reason. But in the past it has often been stepping onto Main Street, when it is still early and "shiny", and you can clearly hear the music and the train and... mmmm .

What a fantastic view you had during your stay at Pioneer Pier! Almost looks like you can reach out and slap hands of people as they roar past on California Screamin'. And yay for the upgrade!

The Mickey Hand-wearing greeters...I love them. They really do look genuinely happy to see you. Did you run down the line and slap all of their hands as if you were on the same sports team like we did?

OK, staring-off-into-space-picture-taking-guy. That was so funny. He really got some great pics for not paying any attention!

Glad to see a return of the Thumbs Up. I remember seeing the pics from that portion of your previous trip but I can't remember the story behind the thumbs up. I'll have to go back and refresh my memory.

Goofy's Kitchen pics...that is really funny about Shawn's aversion to the princesses. There's one of you and Goofy where it totally looks like his whisker is poking you in the eye.

Soggy Butt Syndrome. You can bet I'll be using that phrase in the future.

The Saturn-ish light from BLAB. I LOVED that! No, I don't have that one. I've never even noticed it before. That is a really great one.

Lamp Quest at GCH. I absolutely love that black light fixture with the Mickey Head cut-outs. I would love to have that one in my house. I also loved the lanterns and the poinsettias on the GCH tree. Very pretty. I loved the outside poinsettias as well. How funny about the man commenting on your taking a picture of them.

Well, it sounds like overall it was a great day with Shawn. That is so interesting about her suggestion to book a hotel now for next year! And I don't mean interesting in the way that I usually mean interesting! Wow. And an AP to boot. It will be interesting () to read whether or not anything comes about in that department.

I'm sorry you were in so much pain. That can really put a damper on the quality of your experience, but it sounds like you handled it well.

Here's some craziness. My sister (D36) wants to go to Disneyland next month. She got an AP as we were on our way out of DL in Oct. She is feeling the pull to go use it for the first time. She's not sure about the whole solo thing, though. She's kind of worried that she'll back out at the last minute. I was looking for a place for her to stay, letting her know what the park hours were during her tentative visit, letting her know what rides would be down, etc. Then she said, "You know, you could come too. You wouldn't have to pay for a hotel because I'm already going. You have an AP. That leaves food and your flight. And I'll pay for half your flight..." Whoa! That is so tempting. What to do, what to do.

Anyway, can't wait for more TR and pictures.

deej – Thank you for taking the time to read and get caught up! I hope all the pictures aren’t annoying everyone – but that’s what people seem to like in TR’s, so I’m giving the people what they want!

Well, I guess the ‘moments’ we know we are in Disneyland seem to begin around the same area. Yours starts on one side of the tunnel and mine starts on the other side of the tunnel – but Main Street and the train and the general entry way to DL seems to be integral to the whole thing. It would be interesting to hear if anyone said their ‘moment’ was when they get in the queue for Space Mountain or something.

The PPH room I had really did have a surprisingly good view. I was very pleased.

I didn’t run by and high five the CM’s wearing the Mickey hands. I thought about it, but didn’t do it! I opted for the photos instead! That is a great thing they do – very sweet!

Oh yes, the Thumbs will probably work their way into many photos for a while to come. We can’t retire that completely!

Shawn mentioned that in the photo it looked like Goofy’s whisker was in my eye, but her problem is that she doesn’t speak up before taking the photo. She takes it even though it looks that way, when she could have asked me to lift my head!

Soggy Butt Syndrome! It was so appropriate for this specific ride on POTC. This was the first time I ever had water inside my pants, dripping down my leg long after I got off of the ride! Shawn was not amused with the SBS at all.

That was the first time I had ever noticed the Saturn light in the BLAB queue. I’m sure it’s been there all along. I just never bothered to look up! But now it has me wondering what other kinds of light fixtures may be in ride queues that I haven’t noticed before!

I think I have some more Lamp Quest photos coming up. I literally can’t recall. I know there is a light at the PPH I got a photo of. I just can’t recall what else I took pictures of. I am kind of surprising myself as I go through the Photobucket albums!! I also love the black one at the GCH with the Mickey icons. That’s been there since 2001 – I remember it from then, and I tried to get a photo of it back then but my old camera died!! This was my chance to get a proper photo of it!!

I have been on trips with Shawn before where she says “next year we will do this or that,” and she has made comments about hotels and things in the past. She says things in the moment, but she loses interest or shifts focus and doesn’t really follow through. If I never mention another thing about splitting a hotel bill in the future, she won’t remind me that she ever offered to. She acted as though we should be paying for a room now, and have it paid off by the end of the year, but I bet that if I were to email her today and say, “Okay, let’s start paying something,” she would not do it. It’s unfortunate that she is so moody when it comes to DLR, but we did have fun on this last outing.

As for the AP, I’m not sure if Shawn will do that. She should. She lives 5 minutes from DLR. She would never, ever do a solo trip there, but she has other friends and family who may want to go there with her. She knows that the subject of DLR will come up with me every year. It only makes sense for her to get an AP. She can just do the monthly payments like I am. But I don’t know if it will happen.

I did the best I could with the pain I was in for the whole trip, but it was tough. I had to just call it a night after a bit and not try to push myself to do too much. Sometimes it’s best to not try to push myself and just rest. And the regular ‘I’ve been walking around Disneyland all day’ pain didn’t help the leg pain, but I expected that. It’s just that having both kinds of pain at the same time is a bit much!

When in January does your sister want to go to DLR? Are you leaning towards saying yes? I assume that the main reason why you would hesitate is that you don’t want to leave your family again (especially since your son wants to hurry and get back there for Halloween Time). Well, it’s a free hotel and you have an AP. And you’d only have to pay for half the flight….. That’s awfully tempting!!!

I’ve got a looooooooong way to go in this tome! There will be many photos and installments to come! Stay tuned!

Very nice pictures of the stores plus the trees and wreaths.

I know that this is late that you asked me when I was at WDW and see if the Main Street Bakery at the MK has a Christmas tree inside. When I checked inside the MS Bakery, there were only garlands and a wreath inside the Bakery. So in the end, the MS Bakery didn't have a Christmas tree as DL Blue Ribbon Bakery.

Thank you for the compliment, Bret! Yes, I’m glad you reminded me about the tree in the bakery at WDW. Thank you for checking that for me. No tree, huh? Wow. I know I read in the past that they had a tree with pastries on it – probably like the wreath that hangs in DLR’s Blue Ribbon. I’m surprised they got rid of it. Some of the other trees at WDW were kind of interesting, from what I saw in your photos. The Christmas tree in AK is pretty cool.

So...you saved the camera, the trash can, AND the ice cream?

Do you know how few people in this universe could have done all that?????? Amazing!

Molly – Yes, ma’am, I did! You should know by now…that’s how I roll!

Seriously, I am the biggest klutz on two feet. That’s why this all happened in the first place (well, that and because of the stupid peppermint ice cream). I was shocked that I kept the ice cream from toppling over, saved the trash can from flying into the street and kept the camera from hitting the ground – and if anyone saw me, they said nothing! All of that and I managed not to fall over in the process!! My camera got a little nick on it from when it kind of touched the trash can as it landed on my knee, but it’s better than smashing on the ground. I would have been sooooooo upset if that had happened!

exactly!

Tania – I amazed myself. I doubt it would ever happen again, but it never should have happened in the first place!! LOL!!

Sherry, I have been keeping an eye on your Trip Report and I'm loving it. Makes me want to go back!

Love the photos of the ducks. DS14 and I always joke about the "animatronic ducks". People think we're Dopey or Goofy when we do that.

Love the ice cream story. Save the peppermint! That is something I would totally have done (and probably not as successfully).

I purchased several things you took pictures of, like the Gingerbread Mix with the Mickey cookie cutter. I haven't used the mix but did use the cutter making sugar cookies. I bought the tree in the little green tube for my brother, who lives in China with his Disney-loving wife. Their attempts at a tree over there have been hilarious.

Awaiting more ... in between refereeing my kids, entertaining the guests, and taking down Christmas decor.

PHXscuba

PHXscuba!! Glad you’re still here! I have more duck photos coming up, I think. I saw many ducks on this trip – more than I ever have before. I love how they are so comfortable with people. They are not nervous at all to just waddle on by, in the middle of tons of people. Deejdigsdis has some great duck photos in her TR – with the babies. So cute!

Oh you know I was saving that peppermint! I had waited and waited and waited to eat peppermint ice cream at Disneyland. No way I was letting my costly peppermint-encrusted cone go plummeting to a horrible death on the ground. I only got lucky that I was successful. If I had something similar happen at home, I’m sure the ice cream, camera and trash can would have ended up in pieces!

I love that gingerbread mix cookie cutter, but I especially love the little Christmas tree in the tube! I wanted to get that for myself but I didn’t. I hope they sell it again next year.

I hope you get to make another holiday trip to DLR in the near future – I know you were very impressed with this one and agreed it was magical! Oh, and thanks to seeing your photos, I went and sought out Santa’s spot in the DLH. He wasn’t there, of course, but I did get photos of his photo area…coming up soon!!

I’ve got tons more to share! Thanks for taking the time to follow along in the midst of the busy season!

Oh gosh I love the decorations from Frontierland. They are just so cute and old fashioned. All of the red checkered ribbons and such. And I really do like seeing the light fixtures.

Michele – I got more lights coming up for you! And I got more Round-Up stuff too! It’s a really cute little gem, the Round-Up is. I love the old-fashioned look of it too.

Ok, I haven't had time to comment on anything so far, but I just HAVE to for this:

WOW oh WOW oh WOW!

That is fantastic!!!! I don't think I've ever even seen the PPH for that price- EVER - in all our years of going to DL.

I'm so happy for you - after all the things you have been through, you deserve this pixie dust!

You must go back and take advantage of that price - gosh - invite some friends and have each pay a night, lol. Sherry Quest 2011! I'm in.

amamax2 – I know, I’m still waiting for the promised specific comments!! LOL!!

Thank you – the last couple of years have not been the greatest for me, really, so getting a nice ‘gift’ such as the free PPH night and the $99 for each extra night is totally exciting. And I see it as a ‘sign,’ of sorts, that I should plan another holiday trip in 2011. I might have not tried for a hotel next year. I might have only done one day. It would depend on what money I have or don’t have as the year goes along. But I feel that this offer they gave me is like a ‘You’d better get your butt back to DLR for the holidays’ message to me. It’s not going to get any cheaper than that offer, ever. So if I don’t use it in 2011, I would be a fool. The thing is, I am going to try to have it paid off in advance, with regular cards and not gift cards, so that I can avoid all of that mess at check-in with blocking a huge chunk of money. Even if they made a mistake (which they did) when I was there in not telling me about that hold, I don’t want to even risk the possibility of it happening again. And it shouldn’t if I have the whole thing paid off ahead of time.

Wowie, that's a great reply from the Disney lady!!!!!

Molly – Yes, it was! The fact that I reminded them that I’m a mod on a well-known message board for Disneyland planning and that I was going to tell everyone what happened may have had something to do with it, because they sure did not respond this way back in 2008, the last time I had to complain!! LOL! And I did tell you all what happened, so now everyone else can beware of that, but I still didn’t expect to ‘get’ anything from it. Not at all. That never even crossed my mind. The only thing I would have expected to ‘get’ is a reimbursement of any bank fees incurred if it had gone into overdraft areas. And they would have paid that if it had happened. Fortunately, it was narrowly avoided. Otherwise, it never dawned on me that I would get a free night or a great rate!

So now they (DLR) can be happy that I told everyone how they handled the situation after the fact!

Wow Sherry!!! That's great that they are giving you a "free" night and the extra nights at such a reduced rate. I'd definitely take advantage of that.

Really enjoying your trip report. Love the trash can incident. I'm so graceless that I'm sure the trash casn would have landed in the street with a big bang and everyone looking at me.

Loved all the decorations at Reindeer Round Up and sorry we just didn't make it there during our visit. If my DGS hadn't gotten sick, we would have been able to get so much more done. Can't wait to read more.

Disgram23kids – I will most definitely take advantage of that PPH rate. How could I not? Even if I just went for a day, it would be utter nonsense to not at least use the free night!

I am graceless too, so it was a true miracle that I got out of that ice cream mess without more damage and people looking at me!

There will be more photos from the Round-Up coming! That’s too bad you didn’t get back there during your trip. Getting sick on a trip is so awful, especially at a place like DLR that is so fun for kids. I hope my Round-Up photos will kind of paint a good picture of what’s there.

Thank you again for joining in!

That's great news about PPH Sherry!!!
You have sooo many pictures! I feel like I've experienced DLR at Christmas without even really going!
Of course, I am still planing on making it there for the 2011 Holiday season

You know what I was wondering...seeing your photos of the ducks at DLR....do these animals know exactly where they live? I mean, they live in Disneyland! They chose a pretty amazing spot to live.

Jillian – I hope you don’t mind all the photos! I’ve got soooooo many more to go, from all different areas. The good news is that I think I missed a lot of stuff too, if you can believe it!! And DLR will keep adding more stuff to the season so there will be more to see.

I hope you make it there for the 2011 holiday season! Hopefully, by then you will have forgotten all of my photos and it will still be surprising for you when you get there!!

I would guess that the ducks are treated very well. If you are going to live anywhere, Disneyland is probably one of the better places. They seem so comfortable. I’m surprised that the thousands of people stomping past them every day doesn’t scare them, but they are hanging in there! And there seem to be many more of them than I recall in the past. They are busy having lots of babies, apparently! I saw one duck that looked kind of sick or sad. It just stared off into space as the other ducks played in the water. I felt so bad for it. Poor thing.

 

[Sherry E]

You should see the birds at WDW. Ducks, and cranes and egrets and all sorts of "exotic" to me birds.... Lucky birds!

Molly, I saw a crane at DLR and I was surprised. It doesn't surprise me that they hang out at WDW, however. But I bet they have tons of interesting species there.

Sherry got a stealing!! Sweet!!

Yes, I did, Jazz! (Secretly, I am counting it as a make-up for the poopy water incident from a couple of years ago!) But after the ice cream incident, the pain, the stress of trying to get this trip together and make it happen and the whole debacle with the PPH and my PayPal card....I can't say that I'm unhappy that I am getting a free night at the PPH at all. I'm not at all unhappy! I need something good to hapepn to me for a change - and this was not expected, so it is all the more delightful!

 

[JH87]

Sherry - i don't mind the photos at all!! I LOVE them! It gets me more excited to see this stuff in person! Photos make TRs fun

 

[Belle Ella]

Yes, I did, Jazz! (Secretly, I am counting it as a make-up for the poopy water incident from a couple of years ago!) But after the ice cream incident, the pain, the stress of trying to get this trip together and make it happen and the whole debacle with the PPH and my PayPal card....I can't say that I'm unhappy that I am getting a free night at the PPH at all. I'm not at all unhappy! I need something good to hapepn to me for a change - and this was not expected, so it is all the more delightful!

I totally get needing something good to happen to you. I've been in the same camp a bit myself. I hate when we things just start to fall down around us and cruddy thing after cruddy thing just seems to happen. So you totally deserved it although it's still lame all the junk you had to go through to get the awesome deal as a sort of compensation for your troubles.

 

[kaoden39]

You know I was getting teased about my mad quoting skills. All I can say is that I learned from watching the best.

 

[Sherry E]

Sherry - i don't mind the photos at all!! I LOVE them! It gets me more excited to see this stuff in person! Photos make TRs fun

Jillian - Oh good! 'Cause there's lots and lots more coming! This is the most photos I've ever had from one single DLR trip. That's what happens when I'm left alone with a camera. I am a woman possessed! Of course if Photobucket suddenly gives me the dreaded Bandwidth Exceeded message, then my photos will be missing for a few weeks. But I will carry on with the TR until that happens!

All of the holiday things at DLR will look much better when you see them in person, up close. Photos are nice, but they don't really do them justice. Like, for example, what I was saying to Jazz earlier about the PPH tree - that's a perfect example. It looks pretty in photos, but when you see it in person, with the glowing blue lights, it is much more beautiful. That beauty doesn't translate on camera as well. And the snow - I was trying to get a good snow picture for deejdigsdis. I came to find out that the snow has 'shrunk'! In the past, the snow was a bit bigger and easier to get on camera. Now, the 'snow bubbles' are so small that it is hard to catch them on camera.

So I think that's the case for a lot of the decor and holiday touches around DLR - great in photos; better in person!

You saw that post from Dizneydaz about this being the busiest holiday season at DLR, ever? Even though I don't think we will actually get confirmation on the numbers until after 2011 begins, I definitely believe it. Last year was the busiest season in 10 years, and this one seemed to be even more crowded, all season long (ncluding November)., from all the reports we got. Also, I talked to a CM at the Round-Up for a while (with Liza - funatdisney) and the CM told us that there really had not been any slow points this season at all. It's been non-stop crowds. Of course, the crowds get worse on certain days, but the 'quiet' days of the past are long gone, it seems.

I totally get needing something good to happen to you. I've been in the same camp a bit myself. I hate when we things just start to fall down around us and cruddy thing after cruddy thing just seems to happen. So you totally deserved it although it's still lame all the junk you had to go through to get the awesome deal as a sort of compensation for your troubles.

Jazz - You're certainly due for some fun and good things. Not to make light of it, but how many times has that car been stolen or attempted to be stolen at this point? I mean, really. Even one car theft would be enough stress for anyone. But a second time...and then wasn't there a third attempt or did I miss a piece of the story somewhere? And then, of course, other stress at work and what not... Sometimes it's just too much.

It does seem like a bunch of cruddy stuff happens at one time, doesn't it? We all go through those phases where one bad thing after another keeps happening. Or one major 'change' after another keeps happening. And then there may be a year where lots of good things happen.

You know I was getting teased about my mad quoting skills. All I can say is that I learned from watching the best.

Michele - A regular quotin' machine, eh? I kept meaning to reply to people here, but as you know, I wanted to make some progress on the TR since we are still only on Day 2! So by the time I went back to see what I had to reply to, I realized it was a lot! Might as well knock it all out in one swoop, I thought!! Without the quote feature, I'd never remember what or who I had to reply to, for heaven's sake!!

You keep quoting up a storm!! Use that quote feature like it's going out of style!! Quote Quote Quote and then Quote some more!!

 

[mvf-m11c]

Bret - I agree. It's so nice to not have any people in the background of photos. When I was at DLR a couple of weeks ago, I was actually talking to another guest in NOS about that very thing. Her group saw me aiming my camera at something, and she tried to get out of the frame so I wouldn't have them in my picture. I appreciated that she tried to step out of the way because a lot of folks don't even try. I know we all end up in other people's photos accidentally sometimes, as they do in ours, but most of us, when we clearly see that someone is taking a photo, we will step out of the way. Some folks, however, can see what you are doing and they will not even move around you. They just tromp on through! I said to her, "It's all right. It comes with the territory in Disneyland."

And I have a much harder time staying up late too. I am more of an early riser, so the early MM's work for me.

That's interesting to hear about the dates of the IASW closure. So they are leaving up IASW Holiday up until 1/18, it sounds like, while they take down Haunted Mansion Holiday. I thought it always took more time to dismantle the IASWH stuff. I'm glad they can get it done in 9 days now!

When I did DL during October when I stayed at the GCH and the character breakfast last month, it was very pleasant to take pictures of the park when there are a few people in the park. It made it worth my time to take pictures of the buildings and rides when there is no one in the backgrounds. I would like to do it again and hope to get pictures of rides and buildings without any guests in the way.

I like to stay up at night on my cpu and read and write on the forum. But I just can't stay up that late at any Disney parks. It is a good thing to not stay at the park until closing and than go to the parks first thing in the morning. Some people can do that, but I am not one of those people who like to stay until the park closes at midnight and get up first thing in the morning when the parks open.

I'm a little bit surprise that DL will close IASWH at 1/18. The HMH will be closed on Monday and than reopened 10 days later. That is really fast for DL to take down the overlays of both HMH and IASWH in less than 10 days and open the regular rides.

I agree, Bret - I was much more inclined to want to hit the MM on my first day at DLR than to do the second one. I think people get tired and then their plans for what they are going to do sort of change a bit as the trip goes along.

I thought it was great to do MM and enjoy the park that is not that crowded. But since I can't enjoy it since I am an AP and don't stay on-site, I don't mind it but it would be great to do more MM at DL. It is good to do MM first on your trip instead of doing it later because you have more energy than later during the trip.

Thank you for the compliment, Bret! Yes, I’m glad you reminded me about the tree in the bakery at WDW. Thank you for checking that for me. No tree, huh? Wow. I know I read in the past that they had a tree with pastries on it – probably like the wreath that hangs in DLR’s Blue Ribbon. I’m surprised they got rid of it. Some of the other trees at WDW were kind of interesting, from what I saw in your photos. The Christmas tree in AK is pretty cool.

After you said that there was a tree in the MS Bakery, I thought it would be good to take a photo of it just like what we did during the Tree Quest at the DLR. Here is a photo from the MS Bakery.

I can't wait to go back to DL during the slow season next month.

 

[funatdisney]

Hi Sherry! Hi you all! Just wanted to pop in and say that I have been very busy since Christmas, and could only check in quickly here and there. Boy do I have lots to catch up here.

Had a very electronic Christmas. I got a Galaxy 2 smart phone and a laptop. I have been getting used to each one and even have been following the Christmas thread on my new phone while out and about!

Anyway, here I go again, hi-jacking Sherry's trip report. So off to page 89 to continue Sherry's wonderful TR


Everyone have a great night.

 

[mariezp]

Yay! Glad to hear your phone is up and working again. Even better than that.... congratulations on the awesome phone call you got with the amazingly sweet PPH freebie and discount. If I did my adding correct you will be able to stay next time 6 nights for just a few dollars more than your 3 night stay this time. Is that correct? You may sure enough get that full week you've been wanting! Gotta love Disney customer service when it works in your favor! It was a shame the ordeal that you had to go through with Paypal but I am imagining right now it ain't feeling so bad after all!

Thanks for taking us on a tour of the GF. I have only passed through there in route to Storytellers or Whitewater Snacks but we never tarried long enough to really notice many details which means that all your photos from there are some I have never had the honor of taking before. I'd love to go to the Mandarin Spa one of these days! That would have to be a little bit of heaven after a few long days put in at the park.

Also, I don't think I have ever really paused very long to take in the Christmas decorations in DTD much either. I know they are there but other than the lit up trees I guess I have just been neglectful in giving it the proper attention it deserves! I travel with a bunch that hurries everywhere we go. I must inform them that we are going to have to slow down cause there are just too many things we are missing!

So funny that your photo taking was drawing so much attention. Even the security guards! Are you sure you weren't standing on your head or something while you were taking some of your shots?

Now, when we get to the photos you have taken inside the park it is fun to look at all the photos and think I know where that is! or I took a photo that looks like that one.... and that one.... and that one! Still, even when you've seen it before it's never too much! Plus seeing it from someone else's perspective is so often just ever so slightly at a different angle.

OMG! I can just imagine your trashcan/camera/ice cream incident! I would have done the exact thing as you and looked around after it was all over to see how many people were staring at me. You did indeed pull off an amazing save! And, really the picture of the ice cream cone still came out pretty good. Looks pretty tasty to me!

Wish I had seen these! Going to have to snatch one up next year!

My DD has never really been a big fan of Woody or Jessie. I think she finds their oversized heads just a little creepy. Maybe that's why I have never paid much attention and noticed that Jessie has a rather unusual sort of hairdo. That's some big strands of yarn!

Yep - I think the Pooh ride would do much better in terms of lines if it were in FL, and Monsters, Inc. would do better if it moved into DL and out of DCA. It is tucked away where no one sees it. Then again, I am happy to be able to walk right on Pooh or Monsters, Inc., so I guess I'm glad that they are where they are!

I totally agree that Pooh and Monsters at first thought seem out of place. But the more I think about it I am not so sure just where any better place would be. Pooh on one hand seems to sorta belong in Fantasyland but then again I rather think of the rides there as based on some of the earlier Disney characters. He is a character from way back but not exactly the same. Monsters is just too recent to me to fit into Fantasyland. IMHO, I like the idea of the earlier characters in the original park so it makes sense to me that some of the newer characters have found their home over in CA. So the more I think about it I sorta do like Pooh where he is. Splash is for the big kids so that corner of the park really does need something for the younger ones. And as for Monsters, Inc. I am glad they have at least one ride in that corner of the park in CA.

Here's some craziness. My sister (D36) wants to go to Disneyland next month. She got an AP as we were on our way out of DL in Oct. She is feeling the pull to go use it for the first time. She's not sure about the whole solo thing, though. She's kind of worried that she'll back out at the last minute. I was looking for a place for her to stay, letting her know what the park hours were during her tentative visit, letting her know what rides would be down, etc. Then she said, "You know, you could come too. You wouldn't have to pay for a hotel because I'm already going. You have an AP. That leaves food and your flight. And I'll pay for half your flight..." Whoa! That is so tempting. What to do, what to do.

Girl, I can tell you what I would be doing!!! Hello, American Airlines!

Why can't I have a sister like that???

You know I was getting teased about my mad quoting skills. All I can say is that I learned from watching the best.

They make fun of people like that? Some of us around here like that that just can't help ourselves! Personally, I your mad quoting skills! I'm kinda fond of quoting too.

 

[funatdisney]

Ok, I am all caught up now. Sherry, all I can say is delightful delightful delightful. Delightful pictures, delightful stories and delightful reading.

I can understand your desire to stay longer next time, and with your awesome offer by the Disney lady that can now happen. I am so happy for you. I wanted to jump for joy when I read your update. It couldn't have had happened to a nicer person. Now consider this: when DCA's remodel is complete, you will need to have a longer stay to give you enough time to take pictures of all the DCA changes during Christmas!


I certainly wouldn't have minded if you wanted to take some pictures the day I went to pick you up. In fact, I did take the liberty of sneaking off at the Round Up to take some shots while you were chatting with that charming CM. (I really liked her and will be on the look out for her when I visit DL). But I do get your point. It isn't the same as when you are not feeling like you are imposing on someone.


The ducks are really cute! You should see them when they are crossing their little ducklings across some walkways in the spring. That is one picture I would like to get.

 

[amamax2]

amamax2 – I know, I’m still waiting for the promised specific comments!! LOL!!

Ok, guess I can't keep you waiting any longer. Now if only I can remember the specific comments without going back through ten pages.

See, this is what I meant before when I said it moves too fast....by the time I can spend some time writing (rather than just reading), I feel like most of things I wanted to say are no longer relevant..that the conversation has moved on....so everyone else please forgive me if the subject is long gone...Sherry wants commenst!

PPH: Free upgrade - woohoo! And what a great view! The first time we went to DL and stayed over night, we stayed at GCH. It was awesome and my DH still asks each time we go if we can stay there again (uh, that's a big N-O). We then stayed mainly at Embassy Suites or DLH with an AP rate. Then one time tried PPH because of the better AP rate - it is now our on-site hotel of choice (although this past year, we've branched out to CCI and HOJOs to save money). We love the bigger room and the walk is no farther than from DLH. And they've always treated us well there. In May, for our 25th anniversary, we splurged and did both a view room and concierge. Wow, did they spoil us.

Shawn: So glad it all worked out with her! I don't know all the "interesting" back story, but she came through this time and I am so happy for you. I *thought* I remembered reading at one point that she didn't like the character picture taking, so was thrilled to see her in so many. Except for Soggy Butt Syndrome (cannot wait to use this in a conversation, btw), seems like she was a trooper.

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays: Yes, that whole thing bugs me too. I celebrate Christmas (but also Tday, NYE, ha ha), but you are right - it is a whole season of things to celebrate. Sometimes Hannukah overlaps Christmas Day. And Christmas is just ONE day, so really, we should ONLY say Merry Christmas on the 25th if you want to be technical, otherwise it is like saying Happy Birthday to someone all month long. I do understand that some feel "Christmas" is being forgotten in the chaos of shopping, other holidays, etc, but isn't the whole point joy, remembrance, good will? All these occasions occur at the same time for a reason - to have a universal time of good will towards others. So if you are upset that you think your particular event is being ignored, why is it OK to ignore others events? Stepping off soapbox now....

Parents at DL: Anything where the expectations (and cost) is high, trouble will come. As a young mom, I made many mistakes when it came to vacations with the kids with disasterous results. But I've learned a few things: if you are taking little ones, the trip has to be about them, not you (so rest, take naps, feed them, go at their pace, ride the rides they can enjoy etc etc); they throw tantrums for a reason - figure it out; be willing to leave wherever you are if necessary, even if the trip is ruined (been there, done that...several times). I feel so lucky that my DH's job is such that we can go in the off-season for vacations, but it is also a choice we make (which I do understand not everyone even has the choice). So, at DL, we rarely get to see parades, fireworks, have only seen F! once, always have short hours etc etc, but it also eliminates all the crowd/noise/heat issues that contribute to kids behavior. But if you must go when there are crowds, remember it affects your kids too. Just like you, sometimes they need a good cry, a hug, or a quiet place. I'm not trying to sound like I am a perfect parent (I traumatized many a park goer at Yosemite one time with my own tantrum over my kids behavior), but I think parents sometimes get so caught up in wanting this magical once-in-a-lifetime we-saved-for years experience at DL, they forget that their kids aren't perfect at home either.

Shoot, I've used up my time...got to go pick up the kids from a friend's house...I'll be back....

 

[amamax2]

Just got a call...don't need to pick them up for another 30 min, so let's see if I can get this done, ha ha.

Pictures: Sherry, just loving all your pictures! And I know I've said this before in other threads, but I just cannot believe how much I missed in my days there! You have so many things that I didn't even see - both places I went (like the Reindeer Round-up) and places I didn't make it to. Please keep posting more and more - I'm definitely of the camp that there cannot be too many pictures. I love the ones you got of the PPH tree because you got it in the daytime, and the lighting was so much better - you also got a shot with it reflected in the glass elevator - yay.

No, I didn't make it to IASW..we tried one night but the crowds wee so enormouse, we couldn't even get close! They had crowd control just directing people away from there and towards Toon Town; no one was moving except against the wall that goes by the PFF. We ended up making an U-turn. I also didn't make it to Bug's Land in DCA. I didn't spend as much time as you solo, but did spend a good chunk of time just taking pictures, but there was still so much I didn't cover. I really think when you add extras in to a DL trip, you just need so much more time. We did the candy canes viewing, hotel hopping (though even that was brief), fireworks, TOT and AA marathons, etc, so ended up not having the time to do so many other things.

So, yes indeedy, please keep posting pictures so I can see all the things I missed. I need to go back through them again and pull out some specific ones that I loved to comment on.

OK, one last thing for now (I'm going to have to go back and see if there was more, but these are the things that stuck out in my mind), regarding the characters lining up to say goodbye when it closes.....

Does DL do that EVERY night? Or just during the holiday season? I've never heard of it (that's why I LOVE this board - even a "seasoned vet" finds out new things) till lapdwife posted pictures, and now you mentioned it. If it happens every night, I cannot believe I've missed that!

 

[Sherry E]

amamax2 - I just wanted to reply to a few things real quickly (and then I hope to get more photos posted in this TR, and then hopefully more replies to everybody later).

I can't imagine that the characters come out and wave goodbye/goodnight in their pajamas every night, unless we have totally been clueless this entire time! We would have heard of this by now, I'm sure. More folks would be posting photos of it on the DIS. I realize that not everyone can stay awake until midnight, so a lot of people would miss it. But surely someone would have caught a photo or two before now. Maybe it's something they only do on certain nights? Maybe they only do it on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day night? Maybe a few nights a year? Whatever the case, I think it's adorable and a very nice touch to end the day with. I don't know if I could ever stay awake long enough to see it, but I think it's so sweet.

Okay, so I'm not the only one who missed A Bug's Land on this trip. As I explained earlier, I had every intention of getting into DCA and spending a lot of time on this past trip. And then I felt that pressure to hang around DL on Monday and Tuesday because of the CM parties, so my DCA time ended up being very limited. I didn't even get a photo of their big Christmas tree this year (of course I have it from other years, but not this year)! I really wanted to make a point of seeking out any holiday touches that might be overlooked in DCA, because it doesn't have as much in the way of decorations as DL does to begin with. I never got to accomplish that goal. Given the sneaky way DLR operates in removing things over the years, I hope I didn'tmiss my last chance to get A Bug's Land holiday photos! By the time I got into DCA on my last day, it was time to meet up with funatdisney/Liza.

I just couldn't go to IASWH at night, either, of course. It's too much of a madhouse back there that it's hard to enjoy looking at the facade when there are so many people in the way. I think that sometimes, no matter how much you plan for things, those huge crowds will just throw a wrench into everything.

 

[tdashgirl]

You know I was getting teased about my mad quoting skills. All I can say is that I learned from watching the best.

I am not super good at it ... Sherry ... you are at the multi-quote ... ... but I do love that feature .. it helps me to remember what I meant to comment on

I did remember this though ... your offer for the PPH! That is SO awesome!!!! You so deserve it.

 

[PHXscuba]

Sherry, the free night at the PPH has to be the best after-Christmas present ever! I'm always saying that you have to be your own best advocate and tell people when there's a problem to give them the opportunity to fix it, otherwise how do we learn? Great resolution, very Disney of them.

I'm sorry your back has been given you such trouble. DH had a herniated disc for several years that gave him horrible sciatica and a numb foot. He finally had back surgery almost 2 years and it has been night and day for him. The pain went away, he started sleeping again, 99 percent of the numbness went away and his stress (and blood pressure) went way down. I just remember how miserable he was even when he was pushing through the pain. I hope you feel better and get some relief, temporary or permanent.

PHXscuba