Pocahontas1
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Nov 17, 2002
- Messages
- 362
Princess Squidge is taking a long nap, so I had some extra time to type during daylight hours.
Enjoy...
Part 2: Theres got to be an easier way
Cast of Characters:
Me: 35 year old major Disney fan. DH bought into DVC in 2002, so I now get to go at least once a year.
Omi: My mom. She is 59 and enjoys Disney (but not nearly as much as I do), but she was wiling to go to spend time with the grandkids.
Tater: DS Almost 5 years old (to be exact he is 59 months old this became important later on in the trip). Has been to Disney about 6 times. Knows exactly what he wants to do.
Princess Squidgy: DD 13 months old. This is her second Disney trip. Walks everywhere, but not independently. Has just begun to have major temper tantrums.
Now that we have parked, we all get out and enjoy a good stretch. Its been a long morning (not of course for Tater and Squidgy since they slept most of the way). There is a Disney Cruise Bus loading as we get there. I really want to take a cruise. We were saving our points toward a cruise, but then Squidgy came along and now we will just have to wait until she is four.
We really like what we see of PO-R so far. It is beautifully landscaped. The lobby is bright and spacious and has the prerequisite kids area. Tater is looking at it longingly and I tell him it is ok to go watch TV with the other kids. The little chairs are so cute! Omi has to check in since the reservations are in her name. It would be so cool if a room was ready. Then we could unload and take a rest before heading to buy PAPs for Tater and I and pick up my DDE card (letter). Im not optimistic since there seem to be a lot of people checking in.
I wander through the lobby (actually Squidgy is holding my finger, dragging me) while Omi waits in line. When it is her turn, I go up to the window just to make sure she does everything right. The CM asks if we have a building preference or if we would just like an available room. In all honesty, it is not that important to us to be near the food court or the main pool, so we tell her any building and room would be fine (we learn our lesson here and do not make the same mistake at OKW). She asked us if we preferred AB or the mansions and honestly, it doesnt really make a difference, although I think the mansion are prettier.
She checks the computer and tells us there is a non-smoking room available and gives a map with our room number written on it 3435. Yup, that is building 34 and it looks to be a long way away from everything. We get our folder with all our information and decide to head for the room.
I think I mentioned something to Omi about having them bring the luggage, but if the thought went through my mind, it never came back. I ask Omi to watch Squidgy while Tater and I head to the store. I ordered Guest of Honor badges from the Christmas store and they are supposed to be waiting for me at the store. But, there are a lot of people picking up packages and I really want to get to the room so we can unpack and head out. It is a little after noon and Im getting antsy. We round up Omi and Squidgy and head back to the van.
Let me tell you, building 34 is a long way from everything. I feel like Im driving forever. Found a parking space pretty close to the building (or so I thought I parked near building 35). We pulled out the double stroller since Squidgy is just too heavy to carry. AB is really a pretty area of the resort. Lots of trees not a lot of stairs to the second floor of the hotel. Thats right, when we said any available room, we neglected to mention the first floor would be nice. Yes, this part of the resort has no elevators. So, after we wander around the hotel trying to find some stairs (we finally do), we have to drag Squidgy up the stairs, still in her stroller. Now, it is just drizzling a little bit and is not that hot, but boy is it humid.
We finally find the room. I can see condensation on the glass. It must be really cold in there. I walk in a collapse on the bed. Tater walks in and says Wheres the living room. Yes, we usually stay in a villa. He then goes to the bathroom and asks where is the big tub. This could be a long trip. We have a great view from our room. We overlook a little pond with a bridge. Im kind of thinking though, it might be nice to overlook the parking lot, cause it sure is along way back.
I head back to the parking lot while Omi supervises Squidgy. Tater follows right behind. He says he is going to help very doubtful. I drag out my two giant suitcases (thank goodness they have wheels), Taters Buzz Lightyear Suitcase, Omis rolling bag, the cooler, the diaper bag, the camera bag, the food bag and assorted blankets and toys. Now that I have made it from the parking lot to the first floor, I still have to drag all that stuff up the stairs and around the building to the room. Long story shorter version by the time I finished 30 minutes later, I was dripping sweat. Boy did I feel nasty.
So, Omi and I each took a shower while the other watched the kids. Im really getting nervous. Its almost 2pm and we still have to go to DTD to get tickets. The concierge at PO-R says he cant sell PAPs. I tried to buy them on line and over the phone, but couldnt do that and get my DVC discount. I have to go to guest services. After we get those, we still need to go to Epcot to get the DDE card (after I order it of course). Omi sure is taking a long time she has to dry her hair and then straighten it. Who does she think she is going to run into? Does anyone really care if her hair is curly? All I care about is not being late to CM. Lets go, please.
Im probably more irritated than I need to be, but in our tradition, we turn on the WDW channel as soon as we hit the room. I knew they had changed their Top Attractions program, but I wasnt prepared for this. The new girl is really annoying and very loud. Unfortunately, Tater wants to watch this again and again so he can decide what he wants to ride. Can someone please tell me why the remote (ok, not the remote since for some reason this room didnt have a remote kept forgetting to tell the front desk. Hope they dont think we stole it) is automatically set to Channel 18. We see her every time we turn on the TV.
For some reason the message light is blinking on the phone. Weve only been checked in for two hours. What could it be? The front desk says I have a FedEx package. Yeah!!!! My KozyKarrier arrived. There had been some mix up and it had to be shipped to the resort. I was going to be lucky if it got there by 4:30pm on Friday, but it made it a whole day early. I cant wait to use this to carry Squidge. She is so heavy .and wiggles a lot, too.
Tater and Squidgy have been playing on the bed (with the comforter left on), but it is time to head to DTD. We get back in the van and head that way. Its about 2:30pm hope well be ok on time. Well stop quickly by the front desk and pick up my package and then head out. Omi runs (read hobbles) in to get the package. Once again, she is gone for a long, long time. But eventually she turns up with the package. Ever tried to open one of those FedEx overnight envelopes? Not easy without a pair of scissors We head out on the open road and follow the well marked signs to DTD. Its not that the roads arent well marked, its just that I dont think they necessarily take you the shortest way to your destination. I know there is a back way to come in by WestSide, but instead, I feel like I drive forever and come in at the main parking lot.
This part of the trip could be difficult. Tater really wants to go to the Lego store, Once Upon a Toy, ride the train, ride the carousel, and shop at the giant Disney Store. Maybe if we can just slip in and out, only going to guest services, he wont realize they are there (yea, right). Anyway, find a parking spot a ways away from everything and get ready to make our trek.
Ive decided to use the KozyKarrier to transport Squidgy. It is a short (or so we though) trip and I didnt see the need in getting out the stroller. If you dont know, a KozyKarrier is an Asian baby carrier. Just a big piece of material with four strips coming off it. You tie two around your waist and then the other two come over your shoulders, cross around your chest and tie under the babys behind (if you wear the baby on your back). Now, Im not sure if Squidgy is going to like this since she is very opinionated. After all, she is a princess. Anyway, Omi and I fight with this thing in the parking lot of DTD and eventually get Squidge strapped in and on. Omi is very worried about the fact she doesnt look comfortable. Her legs are spread too wide, she can see well, it looks like she cant move her head. Now, if Squidge didnt like this, we would know. She would be yelling her head off. Instead, Squidge is just sitting quietly and enjoying the ride. Im not inclined to mess with a thing. If it isnt broke dont fix it.
First, let me preface this by telling you that Omi and I have dreams of being on the Amazing Race. We even applied, but CBS never called their loss. The following is just one of the many examples of why we would have been eliminated on the first leg. I have a general idea of where guest services is (or should I say was) at DTD. I remember it is off to the side sort of near a restaurant and some bathrooms. I dont want to waste a lot of time, since we have to be somewhere by 5:30 so I check the map. Yup, right where I (erroneously) thought. We came in at the World of Disney store and head off in the general direction of Rainforest Café. Well we hike and hike and end up by Once Upon A Toy Store. Tater really wants to go inside, but I tell him no, well come back later in the week (at the time, I had no idea I would be lying to the kid). He handled it like a champ and said ok. We get to Rainforest Café and there still is no Guest Services. I check the map and some how, we walked right by it. So, we turn around and walk back again and finally reach Guest Services only there is a sign on the door that tells us it has relocated. Im really getting cranky and worried about time and Squidgy is kind of heavy. I a bit out of shape and carrying and extra 25 lbs on my back is taking its toll.
Where is the new Guest Services you might ask? We walked right by it when we first went to DTD. Has a big sign and everything Guest Services. So, I impatiently wait in line while Omi and Tater watch the robotic arms air brush t-shirts. He was very impressed, but being the patient child he is (and he even told me, Look Mommy, Im being very patient) did ask for a shirt, he said he would wait until later. You might be wondering if Squidgy was enjoying her ride? Oh, absolutely, she has fallen dead asleep. Must have been comfortable despite of what you thought, huh, Omi. Over $700.00 later, we have PAPs in hand and are ready to travel next stop picking up or DDE card.
As soon as we get to the van I call DDE and order my card. The very nice CM has no problem getting my temporary card ready and tells me I can pick it up at Guest Services at Epcot after 5:30. I ask if there is any way I could pick it up earlier since we have dinner at 5:30 and I really hoped to use the discount. Not trying to be pushy and she has gone out of her way to help me so far, but I sure would like to save that $17.00 dollars on the meal tonight. She tells me she works in a small office and there is no way for her to get it there until she drops it off after she gets off work. Nice person that I am, I volunteer to go by and pick it up. No can do, she informs me. She works in a secure location. Now Im not sure what that means, but Im envisioning retinal scans to get in. No biggie, well just get it after dinner.
That leaves us with extra time, since it is only about 3:30pm. We decide to tour some resorts. Omi mentioned she has never been to the Boardwalk so we head over there. Tater and Squidge conk out in the car (actually, she never woke up, remember she fell asleep in the KozyKarrier). We reach the Boardwalk and head out just to walk around, but were feeling kind of hungry. Been a long time since those blueberry pancakes this morning. We wander across the Boardwalk Bakery ok, since I knew exactly where it was, I guess we didnt wander (Omi thought it was an accidental discovery, though). Tater is still asleep, but Squidge is just enjoying the ride. We decided to grab a quick snack to hold us over until dinner. What yummy choices there are in the case Omi and I compromise on the Chocolate Mousse Cake (with a diet coke). Since we share, it only had half the calories so Im feeling pretty good about that. Tater wakes up and I give him some money to go in and buy a cookie. I feel like it is ok to give him some independence, as long as he is closely supervised. He does a great job, but forgets to pick up his change no problem, the nice CM calls him back to get it. It was so quiet and peaceful there on the Boardwalk. We just enjoyed sitting there watching the boats. The servers from ESPN were playing football on the Boardwalk with the kids. Tater wanted to play, but he was recovering from a broken arm and I didnt want to take a chance on re-injury.
Well, enough Disney down time on to Chef Mickeys. When we get there it is only 5pm and our PSs arent until 5:30pm. No problem, they give us a blinky thing as Tater calls it. Omi heads off to a gift shop and I hit the restroom to give Squidge a quick change. When I come out, Omi has bought Tater an autograph book (cause I forgot to bring the old one) and a princess hair scrunchie for Squidge. Now, this is funny cause at 13 months old, Squidge doesnt have enough hair for me to tape a bow to her head. No where near enough for a scrunchie.
Omi wanders off again and I ask Tater to wait on the bench for them to call us while I wander with Squidge (who is very insistent she has to walk). Next thing I know, he is talking to the hostess. I go and fuss at him for bothering people because he will talk to anyone and immediately feel bad because he did exactly what I asked him to do. The blinky thing went off and he told her it was our turn (bad, bad Mommy for fussing at your child for no reason). After greeting Donald in the lobby, we head back to our table.
Ive eaten at Chef Mickeys before and to be honest, I dont think you go there for food. I think it is the atmosphere and the chance to meet Mickey and friends. Tonight is no exception. The food is fine, just not Wow. Tater eats very little, but doesnt miss a chance to get an autograph or for a picture with the characters, also participate in the napkin dance two times. Squidge ate nothing except dry cereal, Teddy Grams, crackers, etc. One point to note, she was terrified of the characters. All they had to do was look at her and she screamed. Most of the character were fine with that and went to visit with Tater when we told them she wasnt very friendly. The fact that she was screaming and trying to get out of her chair should have been a clue. I try to earn back some of the major Mommy points I lost for fussing at Tater by standing between Squidge and the characters. That settled her a little bit. Things were going pretty well until Pluto insisted, he could get Squidge to like him. He tried to be playful and make silly faces, but she just cried even more bad dog, Pluto!!!! No terrorizing small children.
The rest of the meal was kind of a blur. Nothing stands out as being good or bad, just kind of food. Omi and I ended up taking turns sitting with Tater while the other walked around the food bars with Squidge. Tater impressed some guest from Japan by counting from 1 10 in Japanese (he takes Karate). They seemed to be really impressed. I pick up the $75.00 bill (no DDE discount sadly).
Now we hop on the monorail to head for Epcot. While were waiting (were first in line), Tater asks if we can ride up front (good boy, Ive trained you well the Disney Force is strong in this one). The CM says if there is an opening, no problem. Hooray, were being flagged to the front. Wait, something is wrong, the driver comes out and is telling us to go back. The nice CM explains that if there are technical difficulties, they dont let anyone ride up front. Now I dont know about you, but Im not to sure I want to ride on a monorail with technical difficulties. If we get stuck, how do we get down? I know I dont want to be trapped in here with a crying Squidge (trust me, you dont want to be trapped, either).
Well, we wheel right on and Tater stands next to the door (wont sit). Squidge wants out of her stroller, but doesnt want to be held. Instead she wants to stand on the seat or walk around holding someones hand. The other ladies in our car, think she is cute, how can they be so wrong theyve never seen her in a moment of pure tantrum.
Arrive at Epcot and take the monorail tour. Way cool since they are just finishing up Flower and Garden Festival. Lots of awesome topiaries. We could see the butterfly houses. Makes me think of dumping Omi and taking Tater to the parks since we have PAPs and its only 6pm. I must have spoken out loud since she kind of gives me a dirty look. Well guess well just wait until tomorrow (sigh oh wait, more dirty looks, that must have been out loud, too).
Get off the monorail, go to guest services and pick up my letter. Turn around to get back on the monorail and guess what the *#*$& stroller wont fit. This cant be right, it fit on the way over. No amount of forcing will get it in the car while it is open. Lets pull Squidge out and close the stroller. (Thank you to the very nice gentleman in the red shirt who helped me load and unload the stroller if you are reading this). Transfer at TTC (note to self: since only one monorail picks up from here, take the bus to MK on Saturday). While in line, we mention to the CM that our stroller didnt fit (another note to self: always use the wheelchair accessible car). Finally leave the Contemporary about 7pm. The big folks are tired so we decide to head back to the room.
Everything is just as we left it yes, the TV still turns on to Channel 18. As we are getting ready for bed, I realize I left at home: my contact solution (no problem store them in water), Squidgys diaper cream loss of mommy points, Taters new Power Ranger toothbrush and special toothpaste loss of more mommy points. After wiping up the tears, I let him use my toothbrush sans toothpaste. Ill have to erase that from my memory when I brush my teeth tonight sharing toothbrushes gross!!!!. What mothers will do for their kids. We put Squidgy in the Pack-and-Play behind the curtain. She needs a dark alone space not necessarily quiet to sleep. Omi, Tater and I watch the Princess Diaries and plan our trip to MGM tomorrow. I call for wake up call and hope for Mickey rather than Stitch.
Its been a good and busy first day. Everything hasnt gone smoothly, but were at the happiest place on earth, and lucky mother that I am, Tater chooses to sleep with me (sigh I was hoping he might sleep with Omi since he kicks a lot and talks in his sleep).
Enjoy...
Part 2: Theres got to be an easier way
Cast of Characters:
Me: 35 year old major Disney fan. DH bought into DVC in 2002, so I now get to go at least once a year.
Omi: My mom. She is 59 and enjoys Disney (but not nearly as much as I do), but she was wiling to go to spend time with the grandkids.
Tater: DS Almost 5 years old (to be exact he is 59 months old this became important later on in the trip). Has been to Disney about 6 times. Knows exactly what he wants to do.
Princess Squidgy: DD 13 months old. This is her second Disney trip. Walks everywhere, but not independently. Has just begun to have major temper tantrums.
Now that we have parked, we all get out and enjoy a good stretch. Its been a long morning (not of course for Tater and Squidgy since they slept most of the way). There is a Disney Cruise Bus loading as we get there. I really want to take a cruise. We were saving our points toward a cruise, but then Squidgy came along and now we will just have to wait until she is four.
We really like what we see of PO-R so far. It is beautifully landscaped. The lobby is bright and spacious and has the prerequisite kids area. Tater is looking at it longingly and I tell him it is ok to go watch TV with the other kids. The little chairs are so cute! Omi has to check in since the reservations are in her name. It would be so cool if a room was ready. Then we could unload and take a rest before heading to buy PAPs for Tater and I and pick up my DDE card (letter). Im not optimistic since there seem to be a lot of people checking in.
I wander through the lobby (actually Squidgy is holding my finger, dragging me) while Omi waits in line. When it is her turn, I go up to the window just to make sure she does everything right. The CM asks if we have a building preference or if we would just like an available room. In all honesty, it is not that important to us to be near the food court or the main pool, so we tell her any building and room would be fine (we learn our lesson here and do not make the same mistake at OKW). She asked us if we preferred AB or the mansions and honestly, it doesnt really make a difference, although I think the mansion are prettier.
She checks the computer and tells us there is a non-smoking room available and gives a map with our room number written on it 3435. Yup, that is building 34 and it looks to be a long way away from everything. We get our folder with all our information and decide to head for the room.
I think I mentioned something to Omi about having them bring the luggage, but if the thought went through my mind, it never came back. I ask Omi to watch Squidgy while Tater and I head to the store. I ordered Guest of Honor badges from the Christmas store and they are supposed to be waiting for me at the store. But, there are a lot of people picking up packages and I really want to get to the room so we can unpack and head out. It is a little after noon and Im getting antsy. We round up Omi and Squidgy and head back to the van.
Let me tell you, building 34 is a long way from everything. I feel like Im driving forever. Found a parking space pretty close to the building (or so I thought I parked near building 35). We pulled out the double stroller since Squidgy is just too heavy to carry. AB is really a pretty area of the resort. Lots of trees not a lot of stairs to the second floor of the hotel. Thats right, when we said any available room, we neglected to mention the first floor would be nice. Yes, this part of the resort has no elevators. So, after we wander around the hotel trying to find some stairs (we finally do), we have to drag Squidgy up the stairs, still in her stroller. Now, it is just drizzling a little bit and is not that hot, but boy is it humid.
We finally find the room. I can see condensation on the glass. It must be really cold in there. I walk in a collapse on the bed. Tater walks in and says Wheres the living room. Yes, we usually stay in a villa. He then goes to the bathroom and asks where is the big tub. This could be a long trip. We have a great view from our room. We overlook a little pond with a bridge. Im kind of thinking though, it might be nice to overlook the parking lot, cause it sure is along way back.
I head back to the parking lot while Omi supervises Squidgy. Tater follows right behind. He says he is going to help very doubtful. I drag out my two giant suitcases (thank goodness they have wheels), Taters Buzz Lightyear Suitcase, Omis rolling bag, the cooler, the diaper bag, the camera bag, the food bag and assorted blankets and toys. Now that I have made it from the parking lot to the first floor, I still have to drag all that stuff up the stairs and around the building to the room. Long story shorter version by the time I finished 30 minutes later, I was dripping sweat. Boy did I feel nasty.
So, Omi and I each took a shower while the other watched the kids. Im really getting nervous. Its almost 2pm and we still have to go to DTD to get tickets. The concierge at PO-R says he cant sell PAPs. I tried to buy them on line and over the phone, but couldnt do that and get my DVC discount. I have to go to guest services. After we get those, we still need to go to Epcot to get the DDE card (after I order it of course). Omi sure is taking a long time she has to dry her hair and then straighten it. Who does she think she is going to run into? Does anyone really care if her hair is curly? All I care about is not being late to CM. Lets go, please.
Im probably more irritated than I need to be, but in our tradition, we turn on the WDW channel as soon as we hit the room. I knew they had changed their Top Attractions program, but I wasnt prepared for this. The new girl is really annoying and very loud. Unfortunately, Tater wants to watch this again and again so he can decide what he wants to ride. Can someone please tell me why the remote (ok, not the remote since for some reason this room didnt have a remote kept forgetting to tell the front desk. Hope they dont think we stole it) is automatically set to Channel 18. We see her every time we turn on the TV.
For some reason the message light is blinking on the phone. Weve only been checked in for two hours. What could it be? The front desk says I have a FedEx package. Yeah!!!! My KozyKarrier arrived. There had been some mix up and it had to be shipped to the resort. I was going to be lucky if it got there by 4:30pm on Friday, but it made it a whole day early. I cant wait to use this to carry Squidge. She is so heavy .and wiggles a lot, too.
Tater and Squidgy have been playing on the bed (with the comforter left on), but it is time to head to DTD. We get back in the van and head that way. Its about 2:30pm hope well be ok on time. Well stop quickly by the front desk and pick up my package and then head out. Omi runs (read hobbles) in to get the package. Once again, she is gone for a long, long time. But eventually she turns up with the package. Ever tried to open one of those FedEx overnight envelopes? Not easy without a pair of scissors We head out on the open road and follow the well marked signs to DTD. Its not that the roads arent well marked, its just that I dont think they necessarily take you the shortest way to your destination. I know there is a back way to come in by WestSide, but instead, I feel like I drive forever and come in at the main parking lot.
This part of the trip could be difficult. Tater really wants to go to the Lego store, Once Upon a Toy, ride the train, ride the carousel, and shop at the giant Disney Store. Maybe if we can just slip in and out, only going to guest services, he wont realize they are there (yea, right). Anyway, find a parking spot a ways away from everything and get ready to make our trek.
Ive decided to use the KozyKarrier to transport Squidgy. It is a short (or so we though) trip and I didnt see the need in getting out the stroller. If you dont know, a KozyKarrier is an Asian baby carrier. Just a big piece of material with four strips coming off it. You tie two around your waist and then the other two come over your shoulders, cross around your chest and tie under the babys behind (if you wear the baby on your back). Now, Im not sure if Squidgy is going to like this since she is very opinionated. After all, she is a princess. Anyway, Omi and I fight with this thing in the parking lot of DTD and eventually get Squidge strapped in and on. Omi is very worried about the fact she doesnt look comfortable. Her legs are spread too wide, she can see well, it looks like she cant move her head. Now, if Squidge didnt like this, we would know. She would be yelling her head off. Instead, Squidge is just sitting quietly and enjoying the ride. Im not inclined to mess with a thing. If it isnt broke dont fix it.
First, let me preface this by telling you that Omi and I have dreams of being on the Amazing Race. We even applied, but CBS never called their loss. The following is just one of the many examples of why we would have been eliminated on the first leg. I have a general idea of where guest services is (or should I say was) at DTD. I remember it is off to the side sort of near a restaurant and some bathrooms. I dont want to waste a lot of time, since we have to be somewhere by 5:30 so I check the map. Yup, right where I (erroneously) thought. We came in at the World of Disney store and head off in the general direction of Rainforest Café. Well we hike and hike and end up by Once Upon A Toy Store. Tater really wants to go inside, but I tell him no, well come back later in the week (at the time, I had no idea I would be lying to the kid). He handled it like a champ and said ok. We get to Rainforest Café and there still is no Guest Services. I check the map and some how, we walked right by it. So, we turn around and walk back again and finally reach Guest Services only there is a sign on the door that tells us it has relocated. Im really getting cranky and worried about time and Squidgy is kind of heavy. I a bit out of shape and carrying and extra 25 lbs on my back is taking its toll.
Where is the new Guest Services you might ask? We walked right by it when we first went to DTD. Has a big sign and everything Guest Services. So, I impatiently wait in line while Omi and Tater watch the robotic arms air brush t-shirts. He was very impressed, but being the patient child he is (and he even told me, Look Mommy, Im being very patient) did ask for a shirt, he said he would wait until later. You might be wondering if Squidgy was enjoying her ride? Oh, absolutely, she has fallen dead asleep. Must have been comfortable despite of what you thought, huh, Omi. Over $700.00 later, we have PAPs in hand and are ready to travel next stop picking up or DDE card.
As soon as we get to the van I call DDE and order my card. The very nice CM has no problem getting my temporary card ready and tells me I can pick it up at Guest Services at Epcot after 5:30. I ask if there is any way I could pick it up earlier since we have dinner at 5:30 and I really hoped to use the discount. Not trying to be pushy and she has gone out of her way to help me so far, but I sure would like to save that $17.00 dollars on the meal tonight. She tells me she works in a small office and there is no way for her to get it there until she drops it off after she gets off work. Nice person that I am, I volunteer to go by and pick it up. No can do, she informs me. She works in a secure location. Now Im not sure what that means, but Im envisioning retinal scans to get in. No biggie, well just get it after dinner.
That leaves us with extra time, since it is only about 3:30pm. We decide to tour some resorts. Omi mentioned she has never been to the Boardwalk so we head over there. Tater and Squidge conk out in the car (actually, she never woke up, remember she fell asleep in the KozyKarrier). We reach the Boardwalk and head out just to walk around, but were feeling kind of hungry. Been a long time since those blueberry pancakes this morning. We wander across the Boardwalk Bakery ok, since I knew exactly where it was, I guess we didnt wander (Omi thought it was an accidental discovery, though). Tater is still asleep, but Squidge is just enjoying the ride. We decided to grab a quick snack to hold us over until dinner. What yummy choices there are in the case Omi and I compromise on the Chocolate Mousse Cake (with a diet coke). Since we share, it only had half the calories so Im feeling pretty good about that. Tater wakes up and I give him some money to go in and buy a cookie. I feel like it is ok to give him some independence, as long as he is closely supervised. He does a great job, but forgets to pick up his change no problem, the nice CM calls him back to get it. It was so quiet and peaceful there on the Boardwalk. We just enjoyed sitting there watching the boats. The servers from ESPN were playing football on the Boardwalk with the kids. Tater wanted to play, but he was recovering from a broken arm and I didnt want to take a chance on re-injury.
Well, enough Disney down time on to Chef Mickeys. When we get there it is only 5pm and our PSs arent until 5:30pm. No problem, they give us a blinky thing as Tater calls it. Omi heads off to a gift shop and I hit the restroom to give Squidge a quick change. When I come out, Omi has bought Tater an autograph book (cause I forgot to bring the old one) and a princess hair scrunchie for Squidge. Now, this is funny cause at 13 months old, Squidge doesnt have enough hair for me to tape a bow to her head. No where near enough for a scrunchie.
Omi wanders off again and I ask Tater to wait on the bench for them to call us while I wander with Squidge (who is very insistent she has to walk). Next thing I know, he is talking to the hostess. I go and fuss at him for bothering people because he will talk to anyone and immediately feel bad because he did exactly what I asked him to do. The blinky thing went off and he told her it was our turn (bad, bad Mommy for fussing at your child for no reason). After greeting Donald in the lobby, we head back to our table.
Ive eaten at Chef Mickeys before and to be honest, I dont think you go there for food. I think it is the atmosphere and the chance to meet Mickey and friends. Tonight is no exception. The food is fine, just not Wow. Tater eats very little, but doesnt miss a chance to get an autograph or for a picture with the characters, also participate in the napkin dance two times. Squidge ate nothing except dry cereal, Teddy Grams, crackers, etc. One point to note, she was terrified of the characters. All they had to do was look at her and she screamed. Most of the character were fine with that and went to visit with Tater when we told them she wasnt very friendly. The fact that she was screaming and trying to get out of her chair should have been a clue. I try to earn back some of the major Mommy points I lost for fussing at Tater by standing between Squidge and the characters. That settled her a little bit. Things were going pretty well until Pluto insisted, he could get Squidge to like him. He tried to be playful and make silly faces, but she just cried even more bad dog, Pluto!!!! No terrorizing small children.
The rest of the meal was kind of a blur. Nothing stands out as being good or bad, just kind of food. Omi and I ended up taking turns sitting with Tater while the other walked around the food bars with Squidge. Tater impressed some guest from Japan by counting from 1 10 in Japanese (he takes Karate). They seemed to be really impressed. I pick up the $75.00 bill (no DDE discount sadly).
Now we hop on the monorail to head for Epcot. While were waiting (were first in line), Tater asks if we can ride up front (good boy, Ive trained you well the Disney Force is strong in this one). The CM says if there is an opening, no problem. Hooray, were being flagged to the front. Wait, something is wrong, the driver comes out and is telling us to go back. The nice CM explains that if there are technical difficulties, they dont let anyone ride up front. Now I dont know about you, but Im not to sure I want to ride on a monorail with technical difficulties. If we get stuck, how do we get down? I know I dont want to be trapped in here with a crying Squidge (trust me, you dont want to be trapped, either).
Well, we wheel right on and Tater stands next to the door (wont sit). Squidge wants out of her stroller, but doesnt want to be held. Instead she wants to stand on the seat or walk around holding someones hand. The other ladies in our car, think she is cute, how can they be so wrong theyve never seen her in a moment of pure tantrum.
Arrive at Epcot and take the monorail tour. Way cool since they are just finishing up Flower and Garden Festival. Lots of awesome topiaries. We could see the butterfly houses. Makes me think of dumping Omi and taking Tater to the parks since we have PAPs and its only 6pm. I must have spoken out loud since she kind of gives me a dirty look. Well guess well just wait until tomorrow (sigh oh wait, more dirty looks, that must have been out loud, too).
Get off the monorail, go to guest services and pick up my letter. Turn around to get back on the monorail and guess what the *#*$& stroller wont fit. This cant be right, it fit on the way over. No amount of forcing will get it in the car while it is open. Lets pull Squidge out and close the stroller. (Thank you to the very nice gentleman in the red shirt who helped me load and unload the stroller if you are reading this). Transfer at TTC (note to self: since only one monorail picks up from here, take the bus to MK on Saturday). While in line, we mention to the CM that our stroller didnt fit (another note to self: always use the wheelchair accessible car). Finally leave the Contemporary about 7pm. The big folks are tired so we decide to head back to the room.
Everything is just as we left it yes, the TV still turns on to Channel 18. As we are getting ready for bed, I realize I left at home: my contact solution (no problem store them in water), Squidgys diaper cream loss of mommy points, Taters new Power Ranger toothbrush and special toothpaste loss of more mommy points. After wiping up the tears, I let him use my toothbrush sans toothpaste. Ill have to erase that from my memory when I brush my teeth tonight sharing toothbrushes gross!!!!. What mothers will do for their kids. We put Squidgy in the Pack-and-Play behind the curtain. She needs a dark alone space not necessarily quiet to sleep. Omi, Tater and I watch the Princess Diaries and plan our trip to MGM tomorrow. I call for wake up call and hope for Mickey rather than Stitch.
Its been a good and busy first day. Everything hasnt gone smoothly, but were at the happiest place on earth, and lucky mother that I am, Tater chooses to sleep with me (sigh I was hoping he might sleep with Omi since he kicks a lot and talks in his sleep).
) I meant it the first time, and I really mean it now... you ARE a very talented writer... you could publish yourself with the "Unofficial But Very Real Disney Expierience!" 
