gopherit
I'm not in the book, you know.
- Joined
- Sep 21, 2003
On the Ninth Day of Disney, Mickey gave to me:
Nine-ty missing dollars,
Eight seats at Beaches,
Seven hours of showers,
Six panting pirates,
Five Prin- cess- essssssssssss!!!!!
Four soggy swimmers,
Third place on Millionaire,
Two rooms at Boardwalk,
And a night in the BCV!
Cast of Characters:
Cindy (thats me, 37 yr old Mom, obsessive-compulsive planner of these trips!)
Rich (DH, 38 yrs young Dad, basically wonderful and easy going, but occasionally known to slip into the less-loved persona, Mr. How Much is This Going to Cost Me?)
Evan (9 yrs old, our deep thinker and comfort seeker)
Ryan (8 yrs old, our tireless spark on an endless thrill quest)
Caroline (4 yrs old and already has the role of drama queen mastered!)
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FIRST DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SECOND DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE THIRD DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FOURTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM DAYS 1 THROUGH 4!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FIFTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SIXTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SEVENTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE EIGHTH DAY!
THE NINTH DAY
We always try to save one day, near the end of our trip, for what my kids call the fifth park: Downtown Disney. DH and I have often mused that we could probably convince our kids to vacation at DTD in lieu of the parks, and use our park ticket money towards purchases there instead! The kids were saddened to see the Typhoon Lagoon day be cancelled from our plans thanks to Charley, but amazingly, given the option of a day at TL versus a day at DTD, they chose DTD! Perhaps we had all seen enough of a REAL typhoon that week
<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/28/28_2_2.gif' alt='Hurricane' border=0></a>
Anyway, after a leisurely breakfast, we made our way to the bus stop. We dressed the kids in their bathing suits and took along some dry clothes and a few towels, too. We knew that the lure of the fountains would be far too great for our kids to resist! Once we arrived at DTD, DH and BIL manned the older kids at the fountains over by Once Upon a Toy, while SIL and I browsed through the shops. My brothers wife had recently had their 3rd son about a week before our trip, so I wanted to get him his first Disney outfit as a gift. In the all-Pooh shop (whatever its called) I found a nice 2 piece set and took it to the register. I handed the CM my Disney Rewards card, and noticed that the CM was waiting on me to do something like, give him more money. Huh? The CM politely told me I needed to give him about 10 more dollars, as my rewards card was now empty. How can that be the rewards card had $200 at the start of this trip, and all I had used it for were some strollers and that one purchase in MouseGear at EPCOT waitaminute waitaminute something is ringing a bell here -- MouseGear! I recalled how they had tried twice to ring up my $45 purchase and twice had failed before finally getting it through. I recall that I had asked hastily if they had cancelled the other 2 charges, and they had assured me that indeed they had why those MouseGear rats! I paid for the outfit with my ToysRUs visa (I could have used my Disney VISA, but I didnt. I guess I was making a statement, small though it may be ). I was a bit ticked off and it probably hindered my shopping mood, so to speak. I didnt buy anything in Team Mickey, and normally I always get a shirt for DH there every trip. Honestly, though I also confess I didnt see anything that we didnt already have either I have bought that man a lot of shirts or they just arent making anything new. And why are they ALL gray? From there I went over to World of Disney and poked around a bit. Finally I radioed DH, who now had the kids over at the Lego place. I asked if any of the kids wanted to do their shopping yet with their money, and DH responded that while wild horses couldnt drag the boys away from LEGO-land, Caroline was quite ready to shop.
I took mlady by the hand and led her into World of Disney, where she rifled through the countless pink aisles, sorted out the stuffed toys, browsed through the jewelry and accessories in short, she cased the joint. When she was done, she selected a pink Aurora purse, a penny press book, a necklace that said Caroline in pretty script on a porcelain heart with tiny princess faces on it, a Walt Disney World coloring book, and Princess markers. She was so proud of her purchases, and the CM made a big deal about each item and what a big girl Caroline was, selecting such ideal choices with her money. I should have known this was going wayyyyy too well and youll just have to read later in the week to find out why I say that now, but just trust me when I say that never again will I let my daughter do her shopping on any day other than THE LAST DAY, as we are LITERALLY leaving the Orlando area! Nuf said for now, anyway.
I took Caroline back over to LEGO-land to show off her purchases to her daddy and see if the boys were ready to shop. They were deeply involved with their LEGO cars and engrossed in racing them. I t was at this point that I discovered that there had been a miscommunication between SIL/BIL and us apparently they had heard me mention to DH that I had made reservations at RFC for a late lunch, and they presumed I meant today. (The reservation was for later in the week, after they would be gone). So they kept thinking we were heading over to RFC for food. In truth, we hoped to eat lunch back in the villa. We had quite a stocked pantry to unload, and tomorrow they would be leaving we neither wanted the food to go to waste, nor did we particularly want to lug it! Learning that we had no dining plans at DTD, SIL decided to grab some quick food over at McDonalds. DH decided to head back to the villa for a swim (for which of course the shopped-out dd was more than happy to join him). I told DH I would take the boys on a quick fly-by through World of Disney and Once Upon a Toy, and then head for the villa as well for lunch.
The boys browsed through the LEOG store and Ryan selected a small item for purchase, while eyeing about 5 other, larger items that he might want to get before we left Orlando 4 days later. Evan found a Stitch fanny pack he thought was cool, and a stuffed Stitch toy that he had admired in the parks earlier that week. But neither boy seemed particularly moved to buy anything. Evan asked if, by any chance, we planned to go to Animal Kingdom. I was curious, and responded, Yes in three days but why? Somehow, I think I knew what he wanted before he even told me. On our last trip, he saw a shirt at Animal Kingdom that tickled him immensely. You probably have seen it its Pooh bear, analyzing a Bengal tiger with a magnifying glass and posing the question, Tigger Is that you? Like so often happens, however, we just never did run across that shirt in a shop and buy it, though, and honestly, he hardly mentioned it after the trip. About 6 months later, a local discount shop had some Disney tank tops on sale for dirt-cheap. I picked up a Blizzard Beach shirt for Evan, a Typhoon Lagoon for Ryan and a Tigger, Is That You? for Caroline. (I made these choices based on the fact that in each childs size, that was the only shirt style they had.) Evan remembered the second he saw it. Publicly, Evan was happy for his sister, and he delights in reading the words using his best Pooh Voice every time she wears it, but privately, I think he covets it beyond all green-eyed reason!
So standing there in DTD waiting for the bus, Evan told me that while he knew that Dad says I have too many shirts, and it probably wasn't the "best use" of his money, he really wanted that Pooh shirt from Animal Kingdom. I told him that sometimes, when its something we want, and have wanted for a long time, logic and rational thought just doesnt apply! And he could have 53 thousand shirts, but if this was the one he really wanted, the 53 thousand wouldnt matter. In short -- it's YOUR money, so stop seeking everyone's approval -- just GO FOR IT! Now years from now, when hes spending all his money on stereo gear or electronic gadgets or such and his dad and I ask him to spend more wisely, or save more for the future, Im sure hell use my Disney shopping speech against me. Ill instantly regret my words and curse his photographic memory! But for now he is simply pleased at the thought of buying something he truly wants, with his own money; he is "at peace" with his decision to buy the shirt at Animal Kingdom, no matter how many shirts he owns.. because after all, he doesn't own THAT one, and that is the very one he has wanted for so long. With smiles, we board the bus together.
Unfortunately, smiles on Evan are short-lived. The ear was still a nuisance for him today. He complained off and on about it, and it was realllly beginning to worry me that the pain persisted. He joined us at the pool for a short time, but I could clearly see he wasnt feeling his best. At 4pm, we got ourselves ready for our dinner over at Wilderness Lodge. I made a quick call to the lovely Disney Bank One Visa they informed me that yes, they could clearly see three charges within 7 minutes of each other, all for the same amount, all at MouseGear. But the burden of correction lay with me I must now call someone at Mousegear to reconcile the situation and have the 90+ bucks returned to my card. That took a few more minutes, and some phoning around I finally found a direct phone number to Mousegears (its NOT the one on your receipt!). Someone there said they would take a message and have someone get back to me later Have a Magical Day! Grrrrr .
The sky was looking particularly ominous as we left the BWV. By the time we boarded the MK bus, the rain was just pouring down. Evan clutched at his head now and then. Sometimes he would smile at something someone said, and then he would frown and hold his head, as if the act of smiling hurt too much. I think what pained me was the fact he WASNT really complaining about it its like he didnt want to rain on anyone elses parade, or egad, was it that he just didnt think, by now, that anyone believed in him, in his pain? Oh now if THAT'S true... then I felt REALLY crappy myself! Poor Kid!
We got to MK and the water was everywhere I suppose the ground was still soaked from the recent weather events, and this downpour had nowhere to go, or at least, not fast enough. We faced a formidable pond to cross in order to get to our boat, which was waiting at the dock already. Rats, why did I have to wear THESE sandals, I thought, as I waded through the calf-deep waters. I love these shoes, and this water is probably going to ruin them. (They were Lands End slides in fuscia pink ladies if you dont own a pair, try em they are so comfortable! But please -- skip the water-walking with them. Not good.)
I scooped up Caroline and transported her across the pond; I turned around and retrieved a floundering Evan next. (Ryan, of course, had just bounced right through I doubt he even noticed! Water? What water? There was water back there?) We got on the boat and realized just how soggy we all were especially our feet. I wished I had brought socks for us to don at our destination the Whispering Canyon air conditioning would be the ice-aged death of us all. I had some dry clothing and a towel or two, but nothing really for wet feet. Once we arrived at the Wilderness Lodge Dock, we squish-squish-squished our way up the path towards the Lodge. The rain was subsiding, thankfully, but too little too late for our feet. Inside the Lodge, we try to shake ourselves like dogs to some semblance of dryness. We take off our ponchos and wad them up, as best we can, into a soggy heap. We then make tracks for the main lobby.
I am always amazed by how the visual impact of the Lodge that first view you catch as you enter into its greatness -- takes my breath away. I am always in awe, no matter how many times I see it. And oh how Ive missed this lodge! On our last trip, we stayed here, and it almost feels like youve cheated on your love to admit now that youve come to Disney and you made a conscious choice to NOT stay HERE! How could this have happened -- WHAT were we thinking? The gang wanders around a bit enjoying the ambiance of the lodge while I head for the WCC check-in podium. Fairly soon, they are calling our name, although it seems then again, just as suddenly, they recant false alarm, back to our places! Then they call it again ok, whats the deal here? Are we in or out, now I ask ya? Its not easy herding 8 folks and a baby! We get to our table and my BIL and SIL are a bit out of sorts, trying to get their babys snap-together high-chair situated. They are snapping at each other as well as the chair, at this point. Our server comes over and I tell her to just hang on part of our group is a wee bit StReSsEd, if she knows what I mean. She seizes the opportunity to help by introducing my SIL to the drinks menu. (Trouble is, SIL couldnt take her up on the grand idea she was 2 month pregnant at that point, so it was a sadly wasted gesture! Too bad she didn't try the bar sales pitch with me. I would have probably caved for something good...) Our table was situated near a window I swear I think we had the same table last trip! The kids seemed to like their surroundings and made quick meal choices while they colored. Evan seemed ok, but started to complain about how cold his feet were. We were all a fair bit wet, and wet sandals sure didnt feel good, so I could commiserate with him there. My own precious pink slides were soaked all the way through ugh.
DH seemed bummed that our server wasnt more lively as Ive said before, perhaps we have tattoos visible only to Disney staff that say, THESE FOLKS CANT TAKE IT! Truth is, we can but we certainly didn't let the tameness of our server spoil our meal. We enjoyed watching the other livelier tables, and of course, Bobby the Kid (if thats his name or Crazy Guy with the Tigger Hat, as my kids called him -- CGWTH for short). The kids did get to haul ketchup and crayons all around, and rode in the stick horse race. Our meals were as good as ever I was bummed to see that the ribs as a separate entrée arent on the menu now, but my pork chops were very, very good. DH had the skillet and his only complaint was that it took too long to get refills. Everyone else enjoyed their meals as well (more pork chops, a steak, and kids had burgers or grilled cheese or hot dogs typical kid fare). I think personally the highlight of the meal was the birch beer my kids love this and we just cant get it in West Birch-beerless Virginia. We always stock up when we visit northerly relatives! And root beer, my friends, just AINT the same.
It was towards the end of the meal that I noticed Evan hadnt eaten a thing oh, perhaps ONE bite of his burger. And he loves their burgers, so what was with that? The look on his face told it all Ear-ore was back. He said it hurt too much to chew. Well, that did it. I turned to the rest of my party and said I didnt care if anyone thought it was foolish or not Im taking this kid, here and now, to a medic. I went down to the WL desk and the CM was SO helpful, showing me my options and best route to take, etc. Even though it was already 7 pm on a Sunday night, I decided to grab Evan and at least attempt to squeak into the Florida Centra Care on South Apopka-Vineland. Failing that, I would just head to the ER. I returned to the table Evan seemed absolutely thrilled to be leaving and jumped at the chance to go. That alone spoke volumes to me I was making the right choice. He knew the rest of the gang would probably get dessert and then be swimming that night at WL (pool hopping is one of those privileges that comes with DVC membership or at least, for now, anyway) And yet he was overjoyed to leave with me instead, and to go to a doctors office, of all places. This kids in pain.
We grab the boat in good order, and make our way back across MK towards the busses. The pond is now gone just a puddle remains. We snag a bus and are the only ones on it back to BWV. The driver asks us how were doing, and I confide Not too well were trying to get to BWV as fast as we can to grab my car and get a doctor. The bus driver says, ILL SAY what happened to your FEET?!? On the bus, my sandal was slightly off one foot as I cradled Evan. Ev and I both looked down and gasped ourselves EGAD! My feet were fire red. After the initial shock of my barbequed feet wore off, I realized ah yes -- the sandals. When I sloshed through the rain in them, the dye leached out into my wet feet. Let me just say it was far less than lovely. The same dye that makes for a pretty shade of sandal made a horrendous, almost bloody-looking, skin tone. I could only imagine how my feet would have looked in the black sandals . The bus driver recovered nicely from the shock, and in the end, he was quite helpful. He took us straight-away to BWV, no other stops, discussing our medical options as we went. By this time Evan has his head on my lap and is in VERY visible pain. I ponder whether it has just flared up, or if the poor kid has always been in this much pain and just somehow hid it. Hurry, dude, hurry, I think, sending my mantra mentally to the bus driver. (From my mind to his gas pedal and Godspeed!)
Once we arrive at BWV, I am ever so glad that I already have my purse and hallelujah! my car keys! We grab the van and manage to find the Florida Centra Care fairly easily. It is now 7:53 however would they take us? The Centra Care building is confusing I cant tell which door is IN. We quickly open a side door and dart inside, finally spotting someone in medical garb. We have apparently come in the wrong door, and have by-passed check-in, so this person politely guides us to the front, where we now see them locking the doors (Wow what timing WE have!) While I fill out the forms, they take my son in the back. Now frankly, this bothered me. In the interest of time, I see the merit in it, and he is a very scholarly 9 years old and certainly capable of telling someone what is wrong, but Im not ready to relinquish the Dr. Mom role yet, thank you! I felt like I needed to be there to insure this doctor whoever he/she was knew all the details and timeline, etc. When I complete the lengthy paper work, they bring me around into the exam room where Evan sits on the table looking super-bummed. The doctor who rather fashions himself as Noah Wyle from TVs ER , was quite jovial, explaining that Evan had swimmers ear, and that he had prescribed some drops for his ears, but if that didnt work, his best suggestion was to bop him on the back of the head a couple times a day with a whiffle bat or 2 by four and that should do it. I looked at Evan who was clearly NOT laughing about this and looked back at the Young Doctor Carter and said, Ya know he feels pretty crappy, so Id say an attempt at humor is pretty much lost on him right now. And what about his eardrum was there any fluid, that you could see, behind the drum? Dr. Carter (thats not his name, by the way just play along) responds with GREAT authority that no, its simple swimmers ear, no fluid. He tells me I can continue to give him pain relievers, he should feel better soon, oh and by the way NO SWIMMING. None. Nada. Zip. Well that certainly explained Evans expression, too. This doc looked to be younger than me and since I dont consider myself very old, that kinda bugged me, too. A whiffle bat? Was he serious? (Obviously, not but still Evan was so very NOT amused!)
Nonetheless, I take the prescriptions and head back to the front desk to pay a lovely $130 for our 5 minute visit. We have insurance, but folks a word to the wise your typical quick care folks wont take it. They want the money upfront you can mess with insurance reimbursements on your own time. BRING PLASTIC. I can only imagine how quickly a "quick-care" could deplete a family of their vacation cash! I then went to the pharmacy that was attached to the clinic. Normally, I would have headed for some unaffiliated drug store, hoping for a better price, but honestly, their prices for OTC certainly seemed no better or worse than the Walgreens down the road, and since it was a Sunday night, I figured one-stop shopping beats endless searching on the streets of Orlando, or waiting yet another night to get this resolved. We wanted drugs... and we wanted them NOW! The pharmacist called me over to the side.
Pharmacist: (motioning me over to him) Pssst come here.
Me: Yes?
Pharmacist: (softly) Ummm, you have insurance, right?
Me: (just as softly) Yes Why?
Pharmacist: Well, we dont take it here, so youll have to pay full price and then work out the reimbursement at home. I just wanted you to know that this drug the doctor has prescribed is powerful stuff, but its also pricey. If you have insurance, you probably havent seen the real price of a drug in a long time, and I just didnt want you to get sticker shock at the counter figured Id better give you a heads-up first.
Me: Oh, thats kind of you, but Im sure Ill be fine. Whats the price?
Pharmacist: (holding up a 1.5 inch tall bottle) This little bottle here will cost you about $130.
Whoa! Is that in US dollars? Man -- $130 for the 5 minute visit, and another $130 for about 1 milliliter of medicine I went into the WRONG profession. As I curse my years of college spent on a PhD in obviously the WRONG field of chemistry, Mr. Pharmacist continues on, still under hushed, almost secretive, tones. It reminded me of the shady guy on Sesame Street who opens up his trench coat to sell fellow muppets a black-market alphabet. Psst .. Hey lady... wanna buy a letter "Q"? Only this guy did seem nice about it not shifty in any way, mind you -- more like he was looking out for us and our best interests. He pointed out some silicone ear plugs, so Evan could at least get in a pool (no diving and such, of course). He said I could buy them anywhere, so it's not like he was just trying to drum up sales -- he showed me the type he carried as an example. He noted that doctors "had" to use the "no swimming" clause, but with great care and common sense, a kid could still be a kid with swimmer's ear and survive. He said all this stuff REALLY quietly perhaps he was afraid Dr. Carter might hear him and give him the whiffle bat treatment. The pharmacist also packed us a bag of cotton balls for free (so we wouldnt have to buy a whole bag) to use with the medicine. He then gave me advice on how best to instill the drops in Evans ear for optimal results.
Evan and I left there at about 8:20 and actually got home before the rest of the gang. At this time I noticed there was a message on my phone -- aha! Mousegear had located the error of their ways and would be issuing a 90-some dollar credit to my account. Well at least THERE'S some good news, I thought. SIL and the baby wandered in at around 9:00 pm, and our respective DHs and kids came in soon after at 9:30. Evan seemed truly happy that by tomorrow, he should be feeling better, despite the fact that now he seemed to really be feeling the pain. I gave him some Motrin and got him and the rest of the kids settled down for the night.
DH and I then set about to the task of packing. Tomorrow we would be leaving BWV and parting company with our guests. BIL and SIL had flights homeward, while our fam of 5 would be relocating to Saratoga Springs for the next 3 nights. I always like to have at least a little time with just our immediate family; it gives us time to regroup and enjoy each other more closely. I had originally had reservations for BWV for those days, but the allure of SSR was just too strong. Besides, last time when all the extended family left, the kids just kinda moped around the room. I figured a change of scenery might make this last part of the trip seem fresh and new! After loading up some clothing into bags, assessing the refrigerator, and gathering the stray items into yours / ours piles, I checked Evan again he was sleeping, but fitfully. Truth is he seemed to be in agony, even unconsciously. Man, I thought sure glad I went to a doctor tonight! Hopefully that 24 karat gold antibiotic will kill this thing in time before he suffers too much longer. I felt extremely guilty, however, for not taking him sooner why hadnt I done this last week?!? I probably could have avoided this altogether. Perhaps he wouldnt have stressed out over the rides maybe he would have had the time of his life, 24/7 maybe he would have ridden RnR and loved it if ONLY I had taken him to a doctor I was surely getting out of control with my thinking, but hindsight is always 20/20, and honestly, his pain was so intermittent, and I have never had swimmers ear, nor have I known anyone who had it, not DH, none of my kids this was new turf to us. But if only I had hooked up a laptop to the internet and researched ear pain last week, I might have known
And so I kept on going, beating myself up pretty well (and in truth I havent stopped yet, and its 3 weeks later!) I went to bed that night with a heavy head, but even heavier heart and conscience. It was not going to be a good nights rest, not for Evan or for me. I crawled into bed and lay down in-between a snoring DH and sighing dd oh well. At least THEY would sleep well tonight!
COMING SOON THE TENTH DAY... (click here!)
Saying Goodbye to family, and Hello to a new Disney Home!
Nine-ty missing dollars,
Eight seats at Beaches,
Seven hours of showers,
Six panting pirates,
Five Prin- cess- essssssssssss!!!!!
Four soggy swimmers,
Third place on Millionaire,
Two rooms at Boardwalk,
And a night in the BCV!
Cast of Characters:
Cindy (thats me, 37 yr old Mom, obsessive-compulsive planner of these trips!)
Rich (DH, 38 yrs young Dad, basically wonderful and easy going, but occasionally known to slip into the less-loved persona, Mr. How Much is This Going to Cost Me?)
Evan (9 yrs old, our deep thinker and comfort seeker)
Ryan (8 yrs old, our tireless spark on an endless thrill quest)
Caroline (4 yrs old and already has the role of drama queen mastered!)
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FIRST DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SECOND DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE THIRD DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FOURTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM DAYS 1 THROUGH 4!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FIFTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SIXTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SEVENTH DAY!
CLICK HERE TO READ THE EIGHTH DAY!
THE NINTH DAY
We always try to save one day, near the end of our trip, for what my kids call the fifth park: Downtown Disney. DH and I have often mused that we could probably convince our kids to vacation at DTD in lieu of the parks, and use our park ticket money towards purchases there instead! The kids were saddened to see the Typhoon Lagoon day be cancelled from our plans thanks to Charley, but amazingly, given the option of a day at TL versus a day at DTD, they chose DTD! Perhaps we had all seen enough of a REAL typhoon that week
<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/28/28_2_2.gif' alt='Hurricane' border=0></a>
Anyway, after a leisurely breakfast, we made our way to the bus stop. We dressed the kids in their bathing suits and took along some dry clothes and a few towels, too. We knew that the lure of the fountains would be far too great for our kids to resist! Once we arrived at DTD, DH and BIL manned the older kids at the fountains over by Once Upon a Toy, while SIL and I browsed through the shops. My brothers wife had recently had their 3rd son about a week before our trip, so I wanted to get him his first Disney outfit as a gift. In the all-Pooh shop (whatever its called) I found a nice 2 piece set and took it to the register. I handed the CM my Disney Rewards card, and noticed that the CM was waiting on me to do something like, give him more money. Huh? The CM politely told me I needed to give him about 10 more dollars, as my rewards card was now empty. How can that be the rewards card had $200 at the start of this trip, and all I had used it for were some strollers and that one purchase in MouseGear at EPCOT waitaminute waitaminute something is ringing a bell here -- MouseGear! I recalled how they had tried twice to ring up my $45 purchase and twice had failed before finally getting it through. I recall that I had asked hastily if they had cancelled the other 2 charges, and they had assured me that indeed they had why those MouseGear rats! I paid for the outfit with my ToysRUs visa (I could have used my Disney VISA, but I didnt. I guess I was making a statement, small though it may be ). I was a bit ticked off and it probably hindered my shopping mood, so to speak. I didnt buy anything in Team Mickey, and normally I always get a shirt for DH there every trip. Honestly, though I also confess I didnt see anything that we didnt already have either I have bought that man a lot of shirts or they just arent making anything new. And why are they ALL gray? From there I went over to World of Disney and poked around a bit. Finally I radioed DH, who now had the kids over at the Lego place. I asked if any of the kids wanted to do their shopping yet with their money, and DH responded that while wild horses couldnt drag the boys away from LEGO-land, Caroline was quite ready to shop.
I took mlady by the hand and led her into World of Disney, where she rifled through the countless pink aisles, sorted out the stuffed toys, browsed through the jewelry and accessories in short, she cased the joint. When she was done, she selected a pink Aurora purse, a penny press book, a necklace that said Caroline in pretty script on a porcelain heart with tiny princess faces on it, a Walt Disney World coloring book, and Princess markers. She was so proud of her purchases, and the CM made a big deal about each item and what a big girl Caroline was, selecting such ideal choices with her money. I should have known this was going wayyyyy too well and youll just have to read later in the week to find out why I say that now, but just trust me when I say that never again will I let my daughter do her shopping on any day other than THE LAST DAY, as we are LITERALLY leaving the Orlando area! Nuf said for now, anyway.
I took Caroline back over to LEGO-land to show off her purchases to her daddy and see if the boys were ready to shop. They were deeply involved with their LEGO cars and engrossed in racing them. I t was at this point that I discovered that there had been a miscommunication between SIL/BIL and us apparently they had heard me mention to DH that I had made reservations at RFC for a late lunch, and they presumed I meant today. (The reservation was for later in the week, after they would be gone). So they kept thinking we were heading over to RFC for food. In truth, we hoped to eat lunch back in the villa. We had quite a stocked pantry to unload, and tomorrow they would be leaving we neither wanted the food to go to waste, nor did we particularly want to lug it! Learning that we had no dining plans at DTD, SIL decided to grab some quick food over at McDonalds. DH decided to head back to the villa for a swim (for which of course the shopped-out dd was more than happy to join him). I told DH I would take the boys on a quick fly-by through World of Disney and Once Upon a Toy, and then head for the villa as well for lunch.
The boys browsed through the LEOG store and Ryan selected a small item for purchase, while eyeing about 5 other, larger items that he might want to get before we left Orlando 4 days later. Evan found a Stitch fanny pack he thought was cool, and a stuffed Stitch toy that he had admired in the parks earlier that week. But neither boy seemed particularly moved to buy anything. Evan asked if, by any chance, we planned to go to Animal Kingdom. I was curious, and responded, Yes in three days but why? Somehow, I think I knew what he wanted before he even told me. On our last trip, he saw a shirt at Animal Kingdom that tickled him immensely. You probably have seen it its Pooh bear, analyzing a Bengal tiger with a magnifying glass and posing the question, Tigger Is that you? Like so often happens, however, we just never did run across that shirt in a shop and buy it, though, and honestly, he hardly mentioned it after the trip. About 6 months later, a local discount shop had some Disney tank tops on sale for dirt-cheap. I picked up a Blizzard Beach shirt for Evan, a Typhoon Lagoon for Ryan and a Tigger, Is That You? for Caroline. (I made these choices based on the fact that in each childs size, that was the only shirt style they had.) Evan remembered the second he saw it. Publicly, Evan was happy for his sister, and he delights in reading the words using his best Pooh Voice every time she wears it, but privately, I think he covets it beyond all green-eyed reason!
So standing there in DTD waiting for the bus, Evan told me that while he knew that Dad says I have too many shirts, and it probably wasn't the "best use" of his money, he really wanted that Pooh shirt from Animal Kingdom. I told him that sometimes, when its something we want, and have wanted for a long time, logic and rational thought just doesnt apply! And he could have 53 thousand shirts, but if this was the one he really wanted, the 53 thousand wouldnt matter. In short -- it's YOUR money, so stop seeking everyone's approval -- just GO FOR IT! Now years from now, when hes spending all his money on stereo gear or electronic gadgets or such and his dad and I ask him to spend more wisely, or save more for the future, Im sure hell use my Disney shopping speech against me. Ill instantly regret my words and curse his photographic memory! But for now he is simply pleased at the thought of buying something he truly wants, with his own money; he is "at peace" with his decision to buy the shirt at Animal Kingdom, no matter how many shirts he owns.. because after all, he doesn't own THAT one, and that is the very one he has wanted for so long. With smiles, we board the bus together.
Unfortunately, smiles on Evan are short-lived. The ear was still a nuisance for him today. He complained off and on about it, and it was realllly beginning to worry me that the pain persisted. He joined us at the pool for a short time, but I could clearly see he wasnt feeling his best. At 4pm, we got ourselves ready for our dinner over at Wilderness Lodge. I made a quick call to the lovely Disney Bank One Visa they informed me that yes, they could clearly see three charges within 7 minutes of each other, all for the same amount, all at MouseGear. But the burden of correction lay with me I must now call someone at Mousegear to reconcile the situation and have the 90+ bucks returned to my card. That took a few more minutes, and some phoning around I finally found a direct phone number to Mousegears (its NOT the one on your receipt!). Someone there said they would take a message and have someone get back to me later Have a Magical Day! Grrrrr .
The sky was looking particularly ominous as we left the BWV. By the time we boarded the MK bus, the rain was just pouring down. Evan clutched at his head now and then. Sometimes he would smile at something someone said, and then he would frown and hold his head, as if the act of smiling hurt too much. I think what pained me was the fact he WASNT really complaining about it its like he didnt want to rain on anyone elses parade, or egad, was it that he just didnt think, by now, that anyone believed in him, in his pain? Oh now if THAT'S true... then I felt REALLY crappy myself! Poor Kid!
We got to MK and the water was everywhere I suppose the ground was still soaked from the recent weather events, and this downpour had nowhere to go, or at least, not fast enough. We faced a formidable pond to cross in order to get to our boat, which was waiting at the dock already. Rats, why did I have to wear THESE sandals, I thought, as I waded through the calf-deep waters. I love these shoes, and this water is probably going to ruin them. (They were Lands End slides in fuscia pink ladies if you dont own a pair, try em they are so comfortable! But please -- skip the water-walking with them. Not good.)
I scooped up Caroline and transported her across the pond; I turned around and retrieved a floundering Evan next. (Ryan, of course, had just bounced right through I doubt he even noticed! Water? What water? There was water back there?) We got on the boat and realized just how soggy we all were especially our feet. I wished I had brought socks for us to don at our destination the Whispering Canyon air conditioning would be the ice-aged death of us all. I had some dry clothing and a towel or two, but nothing really for wet feet. Once we arrived at the Wilderness Lodge Dock, we squish-squish-squished our way up the path towards the Lodge. The rain was subsiding, thankfully, but too little too late for our feet. Inside the Lodge, we try to shake ourselves like dogs to some semblance of dryness. We take off our ponchos and wad them up, as best we can, into a soggy heap. We then make tracks for the main lobby.
I am always amazed by how the visual impact of the Lodge that first view you catch as you enter into its greatness -- takes my breath away. I am always in awe, no matter how many times I see it. And oh how Ive missed this lodge! On our last trip, we stayed here, and it almost feels like youve cheated on your love to admit now that youve come to Disney and you made a conscious choice to NOT stay HERE! How could this have happened -- WHAT were we thinking? The gang wanders around a bit enjoying the ambiance of the lodge while I head for the WCC check-in podium. Fairly soon, they are calling our name, although it seems then again, just as suddenly, they recant false alarm, back to our places! Then they call it again ok, whats the deal here? Are we in or out, now I ask ya? Its not easy herding 8 folks and a baby! We get to our table and my BIL and SIL are a bit out of sorts, trying to get their babys snap-together high-chair situated. They are snapping at each other as well as the chair, at this point. Our server comes over and I tell her to just hang on part of our group is a wee bit StReSsEd, if she knows what I mean. She seizes the opportunity to help by introducing my SIL to the drinks menu. (Trouble is, SIL couldnt take her up on the grand idea she was 2 month pregnant at that point, so it was a sadly wasted gesture! Too bad she didn't try the bar sales pitch with me. I would have probably caved for something good...) Our table was situated near a window I swear I think we had the same table last trip! The kids seemed to like their surroundings and made quick meal choices while they colored. Evan seemed ok, but started to complain about how cold his feet were. We were all a fair bit wet, and wet sandals sure didnt feel good, so I could commiserate with him there. My own precious pink slides were soaked all the way through ugh.
DH seemed bummed that our server wasnt more lively as Ive said before, perhaps we have tattoos visible only to Disney staff that say, THESE FOLKS CANT TAKE IT! Truth is, we can but we certainly didn't let the tameness of our server spoil our meal. We enjoyed watching the other livelier tables, and of course, Bobby the Kid (if thats his name or Crazy Guy with the Tigger Hat, as my kids called him -- CGWTH for short). The kids did get to haul ketchup and crayons all around, and rode in the stick horse race. Our meals were as good as ever I was bummed to see that the ribs as a separate entrée arent on the menu now, but my pork chops were very, very good. DH had the skillet and his only complaint was that it took too long to get refills. Everyone else enjoyed their meals as well (more pork chops, a steak, and kids had burgers or grilled cheese or hot dogs typical kid fare). I think personally the highlight of the meal was the birch beer my kids love this and we just cant get it in West Birch-beerless Virginia. We always stock up when we visit northerly relatives! And root beer, my friends, just AINT the same.
It was towards the end of the meal that I noticed Evan hadnt eaten a thing oh, perhaps ONE bite of his burger. And he loves their burgers, so what was with that? The look on his face told it all Ear-ore was back. He said it hurt too much to chew. Well, that did it. I turned to the rest of my party and said I didnt care if anyone thought it was foolish or not Im taking this kid, here and now, to a medic. I went down to the WL desk and the CM was SO helpful, showing me my options and best route to take, etc. Even though it was already 7 pm on a Sunday night, I decided to grab Evan and at least attempt to squeak into the Florida Centra Care on South Apopka-Vineland. Failing that, I would just head to the ER. I returned to the table Evan seemed absolutely thrilled to be leaving and jumped at the chance to go. That alone spoke volumes to me I was making the right choice. He knew the rest of the gang would probably get dessert and then be swimming that night at WL (pool hopping is one of those privileges that comes with DVC membership or at least, for now, anyway) And yet he was overjoyed to leave with me instead, and to go to a doctors office, of all places. This kids in pain.
We grab the boat in good order, and make our way back across MK towards the busses. The pond is now gone just a puddle remains. We snag a bus and are the only ones on it back to BWV. The driver asks us how were doing, and I confide Not too well were trying to get to BWV as fast as we can to grab my car and get a doctor. The bus driver says, ILL SAY what happened to your FEET?!? On the bus, my sandal was slightly off one foot as I cradled Evan. Ev and I both looked down and gasped ourselves EGAD! My feet were fire red. After the initial shock of my barbequed feet wore off, I realized ah yes -- the sandals. When I sloshed through the rain in them, the dye leached out into my wet feet. Let me just say it was far less than lovely. The same dye that makes for a pretty shade of sandal made a horrendous, almost bloody-looking, skin tone. I could only imagine how my feet would have looked in the black sandals . The bus driver recovered nicely from the shock, and in the end, he was quite helpful. He took us straight-away to BWV, no other stops, discussing our medical options as we went. By this time Evan has his head on my lap and is in VERY visible pain. I ponder whether it has just flared up, or if the poor kid has always been in this much pain and just somehow hid it. Hurry, dude, hurry, I think, sending my mantra mentally to the bus driver. (From my mind to his gas pedal and Godspeed!)
Once we arrive at BWV, I am ever so glad that I already have my purse and hallelujah! my car keys! We grab the van and manage to find the Florida Centra Care fairly easily. It is now 7:53 however would they take us? The Centra Care building is confusing I cant tell which door is IN. We quickly open a side door and dart inside, finally spotting someone in medical garb. We have apparently come in the wrong door, and have by-passed check-in, so this person politely guides us to the front, where we now see them locking the doors (Wow what timing WE have!) While I fill out the forms, they take my son in the back. Now frankly, this bothered me. In the interest of time, I see the merit in it, and he is a very scholarly 9 years old and certainly capable of telling someone what is wrong, but Im not ready to relinquish the Dr. Mom role yet, thank you! I felt like I needed to be there to insure this doctor whoever he/she was knew all the details and timeline, etc. When I complete the lengthy paper work, they bring me around into the exam room where Evan sits on the table looking super-bummed. The doctor who rather fashions himself as Noah Wyle from TVs ER , was quite jovial, explaining that Evan had swimmers ear, and that he had prescribed some drops for his ears, but if that didnt work, his best suggestion was to bop him on the back of the head a couple times a day with a whiffle bat or 2 by four and that should do it. I looked at Evan who was clearly NOT laughing about this and looked back at the Young Doctor Carter and said, Ya know he feels pretty crappy, so Id say an attempt at humor is pretty much lost on him right now. And what about his eardrum was there any fluid, that you could see, behind the drum? Dr. Carter (thats not his name, by the way just play along) responds with GREAT authority that no, its simple swimmers ear, no fluid. He tells me I can continue to give him pain relievers, he should feel better soon, oh and by the way NO SWIMMING. None. Nada. Zip. Well that certainly explained Evans expression, too. This doc looked to be younger than me and since I dont consider myself very old, that kinda bugged me, too. A whiffle bat? Was he serious? (Obviously, not but still Evan was so very NOT amused!)
Nonetheless, I take the prescriptions and head back to the front desk to pay a lovely $130 for our 5 minute visit. We have insurance, but folks a word to the wise your typical quick care folks wont take it. They want the money upfront you can mess with insurance reimbursements on your own time. BRING PLASTIC. I can only imagine how quickly a "quick-care" could deplete a family of their vacation cash! I then went to the pharmacy that was attached to the clinic. Normally, I would have headed for some unaffiliated drug store, hoping for a better price, but honestly, their prices for OTC certainly seemed no better or worse than the Walgreens down the road, and since it was a Sunday night, I figured one-stop shopping beats endless searching on the streets of Orlando, or waiting yet another night to get this resolved. We wanted drugs... and we wanted them NOW! The pharmacist called me over to the side.
Pharmacist: (motioning me over to him) Pssst come here.
Me: Yes?
Pharmacist: (softly) Ummm, you have insurance, right?
Me: (just as softly) Yes Why?
Pharmacist: Well, we dont take it here, so youll have to pay full price and then work out the reimbursement at home. I just wanted you to know that this drug the doctor has prescribed is powerful stuff, but its also pricey. If you have insurance, you probably havent seen the real price of a drug in a long time, and I just didnt want you to get sticker shock at the counter figured Id better give you a heads-up first.
Me: Oh, thats kind of you, but Im sure Ill be fine. Whats the price?
Pharmacist: (holding up a 1.5 inch tall bottle) This little bottle here will cost you about $130.
Whoa! Is that in US dollars? Man -- $130 for the 5 minute visit, and another $130 for about 1 milliliter of medicine I went into the WRONG profession. As I curse my years of college spent on a PhD in obviously the WRONG field of chemistry, Mr. Pharmacist continues on, still under hushed, almost secretive, tones. It reminded me of the shady guy on Sesame Street who opens up his trench coat to sell fellow muppets a black-market alphabet. Psst .. Hey lady... wanna buy a letter "Q"? Only this guy did seem nice about it not shifty in any way, mind you -- more like he was looking out for us and our best interests. He pointed out some silicone ear plugs, so Evan could at least get in a pool (no diving and such, of course). He said I could buy them anywhere, so it's not like he was just trying to drum up sales -- he showed me the type he carried as an example. He noted that doctors "had" to use the "no swimming" clause, but with great care and common sense, a kid could still be a kid with swimmer's ear and survive. He said all this stuff REALLY quietly perhaps he was afraid Dr. Carter might hear him and give him the whiffle bat treatment. The pharmacist also packed us a bag of cotton balls for free (so we wouldnt have to buy a whole bag) to use with the medicine. He then gave me advice on how best to instill the drops in Evans ear for optimal results.
Evan and I left there at about 8:20 and actually got home before the rest of the gang. At this time I noticed there was a message on my phone -- aha! Mousegear had located the error of their ways and would be issuing a 90-some dollar credit to my account. Well at least THERE'S some good news, I thought. SIL and the baby wandered in at around 9:00 pm, and our respective DHs and kids came in soon after at 9:30. Evan seemed truly happy that by tomorrow, he should be feeling better, despite the fact that now he seemed to really be feeling the pain. I gave him some Motrin and got him and the rest of the kids settled down for the night.
DH and I then set about to the task of packing. Tomorrow we would be leaving BWV and parting company with our guests. BIL and SIL had flights homeward, while our fam of 5 would be relocating to Saratoga Springs for the next 3 nights. I always like to have at least a little time with just our immediate family; it gives us time to regroup and enjoy each other more closely. I had originally had reservations for BWV for those days, but the allure of SSR was just too strong. Besides, last time when all the extended family left, the kids just kinda moped around the room. I figured a change of scenery might make this last part of the trip seem fresh and new! After loading up some clothing into bags, assessing the refrigerator, and gathering the stray items into yours / ours piles, I checked Evan again he was sleeping, but fitfully. Truth is he seemed to be in agony, even unconsciously. Man, I thought sure glad I went to a doctor tonight! Hopefully that 24 karat gold antibiotic will kill this thing in time before he suffers too much longer. I felt extremely guilty, however, for not taking him sooner why hadnt I done this last week?!? I probably could have avoided this altogether. Perhaps he wouldnt have stressed out over the rides maybe he would have had the time of his life, 24/7 maybe he would have ridden RnR and loved it if ONLY I had taken him to a doctor I was surely getting out of control with my thinking, but hindsight is always 20/20, and honestly, his pain was so intermittent, and I have never had swimmers ear, nor have I known anyone who had it, not DH, none of my kids this was new turf to us. But if only I had hooked up a laptop to the internet and researched ear pain last week, I might have known
And so I kept on going, beating myself up pretty well (and in truth I havent stopped yet, and its 3 weeks later!) I went to bed that night with a heavy head, but even heavier heart and conscience. It was not going to be a good nights rest, not for Evan or for me. I crawled into bed and lay down in-between a snoring DH and sighing dd oh well. At least THEY would sleep well tonight!
COMING SOON THE TENTH DAY... (click here!)
Saying Goodbye to family, and Hello to a new Disney Home!
Better go back to WDW.
