POFQ Dec. 17 - 24 Days 5 & 6 Added + Pictures

[budbeerlady]

We were at POFQ 12/10-12/17 in building 5, we loved it (5246!!!!!!!) and had a great time also!

 

[Tammi67]

Day Three – Monday – Animal Kingdom & MGM

We were up again and out the door by 0810, same routine as yesterday. We got to AK in time for the opening show. When the rope dropped, everyone else went to Dinoland and I headed to get FPs for KS. Everyone seemed to be going this way. After I got the FPs I headed to Dinoland through Asia. There was no one on this side of the park. I strolled leisurely, videotaping as I walked. It was very calm and serene. When I got to Dinoland it was virtually empty as well. The kids and John were just getting off of Triceratops Spin. John, Bob and I rode Primevil Whirl. Nicholas was not big enough for this. I have no idea why this ride is 48” . They played in the Boneyard while we rode. Next we were off to Dinosaur. We had a brief wait in the preview area. I warned Alyssa that this would be loud and bumpy. She didn’t care for it and covered her eyes most of the time. But she never cried !

By this time we were getting hungry and decided to beat the lunch rush. We got BBQ sandwiches at Flame Tree. I also need to mention that this was the coldest day of the week. It didn’t help that there was absolutely no sun. We should have picked a place to eat where we could sit inside. While we were eating there was a huge flock of duck/birds that came around scavaging. Of course the kids had to feed them what they could, and they got a kick out of that . The kids, not the ducks .

As this was going to be a late night, we decided to head back to FQ for a nap. On the way out we stopped and got Stitch's autograph. Lilo was on a break. Once back at the resort we all slept for awhile.

After our naps we were up and off to MGM and Mama Melrose’s. We got to MGM just as the Hollyday Parade was coming down the street. We stood in the back of the crowd, since we couldn’t make our way to MM, which was fine,we were early. John put Nicholas on his shoulders so he could see. Alyssa was content just to peep through everyone’s legs. I guess she felt “safe” this way. Of course the hit of the parade was the Power Rangers. When they got to our location, they began walking toward the crowd, shaking hands and doing high 5s. The White Ranger shook Nicholas’ hand. What a treat that was. Nicholas thought that was just the greatest . I didn’t get a picture of it but I have it on video. It was a cute parade and I couldn’t get that song out of my head. Now I can’t think of what it was.

Our dinner at Mama Melrose’s was fantastic! The food was delicious. Kevin, our server, was quite entertaining as well. It took a little longer to get through all of the courses than I would have liked though, and we had to rush to get to Fantasmic. We were seated at Fantasmic at 6:30 for the 7 show. I had bought glow sticks at the dollar store at home so I wouldn’t get sucked into paying gobs of money for those light up spinner things that they sell while waiting for the show to start. Guess what…I forgot them in the room, and ended up paying gobs of money for those light up spinner things . I will definitely remember those $1.00 glow sticks tomorrow night when we go to MVMCP. Fantasmic was just as good as it always is. The kids and Bob and Donna loved it.

Next we decided that since everyone was still awake and the park was open until 8, we would head to the Osborne Lights. We didn’t see this last year, other than in the daylight, and I must say that I was blown away . It really got me in the Christmas spirit, with the Christmas music playing, the snow, and the simple festive atmosphere. We had a great time just strolling down the street enjoying it all. I am so glad that Disney is not politically correct when it comes to this. When we were leaving we headed out down Mickey Ave. , past WWTBAM and stuff. The street was empty. It was like we had the whole park to ourselves. It was very peaceful . Another perfect ending to a perfect day.

 

[disneyeveryyear]

Nice job, Tammi.

I can't wait to read the rest.

 

[Blueeyes101817]

sounds like a great day!! i loved seeing the osbourne lights this year

 

[PNO4TE]

When we were leaving we headed out down Mickey Ave. , past WWTBAM and stuff. The street was empty. It was like we had the whole park to ourselves. It was very peaceful . Another perfect ending to a perfect day.

That is how we left the Osborne Lights too, Tammi. It was a very peaceful way to end the evening, I agree!

 

[Tammi67]

Day Four – Tuesday – Epcot & MVMCP

This was the only day that we had a problem with Disney transportation . It wasn’t really a problem, it seemed like forever for the Epcot bus to come. This is why they say to give yourself and hour to get there I guess. Anyway, we still made it to Epcot for the opening. John was the FP volunteer this time, and went to get them for Soarin’. The rest of us made our way over to TT. By the time he caught up with us we had maybe a 10 minute standby wait. Now it was on to M:S. I was really nervous about riding this. John rode it last year with my dad. We discussed whether to take Nicholas on it, and since I hadn’t ridden it yet, I couldn’t say. So we decided that John, Bob and I would ride and then decide on Nicholas. Donna had no interest in this. So, we rode, and I didn’t get sick . I didn’t like the fact that the air kept blowing in my face though, because it really dried out my contacts and I was constantly blinking. The ride was amazing, but I don’t know if I would do it again. BTW, Nicholas did NOT get to ride. Had it not been for that terrible incident last year, my thoughts might have been different, but you always think “what if…”

We made our way to Ellen’s Universe of Energy. This was a bit boring for me but the kids liked seeing all of the dinosaurs. This might be great on a hot, crowded day, but for me it was just to slow.

It was time for our FPs so we went on Soarin’ again. I didn’t even need to butter up with the CM and ask for a front row this time. It happened automatically. It is so cool how they do this. I love the smell of the pine and oranges. On our way out of Soarin’ we decided that we were ready for lunch so we stopped and had a light meal at the Sunshine Café, or whatever that is there next to Soarin’. After lunch we were heading out but first had to stop at Innoventions’ Character Connection to get some autographs. Again, Alyssa wouldn’t even go in the place. Back to the FQ for a nap.

Before 3PM we were out the door heading to MVMCP. We got halfway to the bus stop and I realized I forgot our tickets . I was so used to just having my KTTW. Thank goodness I remembered before I got on the bus! So I ran back to the room to get them and back to the bus stop, just in time for the MK bus. Whew. We had an ADR at LTT for 4:10. Now I had explained to Alyssa that there were going to be characters here. She didn’t want to go and said “I only want to eat with the princesses.” But I thought that I had calmed her down. So we get seated and everything is fine, until she sees, and I don’t know which one it was, either Goofy or Minnie. I was on one side of her and Donna was on the other. She had no where to go……except down under the table. Yep. She slid out of her seat right down there. Let the crying begin . I finally got her on my lap but couldn’t get her back in her seat. And she did NOT want to eat. She wanted to go. That wasn’t going to happen. Our server was so nice and concerned. She offered to box Alyssa’s dinner up for us. I can’t remember what it was, but whatever it was it would not have kept. Our server then offered to bring us a PBJ pocket and some grapes. I accepted. At least Alyssa picked at this and what she didn’t eat we were able to take out. I felt bad for Nicholas because I think with Alyssa’s fear it really hindered the interaction he got from the characters. I finally got her back in her seat when Dale comes by. He sees her hide her face and cry. He backs off, gives me the “wait a minute” signal, and opens a drawer that is next to where we are. Inside is pixie dust. He grabs a handful and offers it our way. I explain to Alyssa what he is doing and she takes some from him. After some gentleness she starts to touch Dale, feeling how soft he is. He offers more PD and starts to sprinkle some in her hair. A CM sees this and comes over sprinkling PD in Dale’s hair. Now Alyssa is warming up. She agrees to give Dale her autograph page to sign. I ask her if she will hug Dale so I can take a picture. She does! What a breakthrough! Unfortunately it was our only one. After that it was “I only like Chip and Dale.” And then when we would see them elsewhere in the parks and I would ask her if she wanted to go see them she would say “I only want to see them at the restaurant.” I don’t get this kid. Rollercoasters, ToT, HM……but no costumed characters. SHEESH.

After dinner it was off to Fantasyland and Small World. This was under refurbishment last time we were here. We all loved it and sang the whole way through. I do think the colors look brighter and more vivid now. We made our way to get the wristbands for the party and then to the first showing of Twas the Night Before Christmas. This was very cute. We made our way back to Fantasyland and rode the TeaCups. We did some character meet/greets and danced at the Holiday Hop. (I knew I'd figure out a way to use this smilie!) This is such a fun time for the kids. Well, all kids except Alyssa .

It was getting close to Wishes time so we made our way to the Tomorrowland Bridge and scoped out our spot. We had not seen this last year and I must say I was goosebumply by the time it was over. I stood there, holding Alyssa, just thinking how truly magical the season is, as well as WDW . What a great time to be there. Unfortunately after Wishes we went through the Hub over to the Haunted Mansion. In hindsight, I think it might have been better to go around the backside of the castle. There were hoards of people. Both kids wanted to go on HM and they did very well. Nicholas was a little scared, but Alyssa loved it. The kids and the men then rode BTMRR while Donna and I saved seats across from LTT for the parade. I so enjoy this parade. I wish I had gotten a picture of Alyssa watching the parade. She had one hand over her eyes, one eye peaking through her fingers, and waving to the characters with the other hand. Too cute! After the parade we started making our way back to Mainstreet. Bob and Donna saw that the Country Bear Jamboree was going to start in 3 mins. and asked if we wanted to go. I really don’t like this, but it was one of the few things that they asked to do, so I said sure. By the time we were leaving the park it was after midnight. The kids did exceptionally well, being up so late, but both fell asleep promptly on the bus. By the time we got into bed it was 1AM. Good thing we get to sleep in tomorrow.

 

[Blueeyes101817]

I was so glad to see another day up!! Im glad that Alyssa let dale near her--even if it was the one character she would! looks like they are having fun!

 

[PNO4TE]

It was getting close to Wishes time so we made our way to the Tomorrowland Bridge and scoped out our spot.

ARGHHHHHH... we were SO close! We started to head for the Tomorrowland Bridge and saw that there were very few people sitting in the Tomorrowland Noodle Station. Headed over there and had front row seats. Tink flew right over our heads! We were not destined to meet up this trip, that is for sure, Tammi!

 

[OhMari]

Did you know that a special Ferry Boat runs between DTD and POFQ. I don't know if you knew that. I know if it is cold and raining out the don't run they ferry, plus I think it has a time table too.

Thanks for posting, and don't forget to finish.

 

[Tammi67]

ARGHHHHHH... we were SO close! We started to head for the Tomorrowland Bridge and saw that there were very few people sitting in the Tomorrowland Noodle Station. Headed over there and had front row seats. Tink flew right over our heads! We were not destined to meet up this trip, that is for sure, Tammi!

OMG - I can't believe it. We saw that too, but there was a sign that it was reserved for such and such people. AAA diamond guest or something. I guess they never check!

 

[Tammi67]

Did you know that a special Ferry Boat runs between DTD and POFQ. I don't know if you knew that. I know if it is cold and raining out the don't run they ferry, plus I think it has a time table too.

Thanks for posting, and don't forget to finish.

Yes, we took it to DTD one night. Took the bus back though.

 

[Tammi67]

Thanks to everyone who is reading and for all of your nice comments.

 

[rosiejo]

Sounds like another great couple of days Tammi. I'm glad Alyssa got a bit of a Belle moment with Chip and Dale. She'll come round on future trips you'll see.

MVMCP sounds amazing - I really want to go - hmm maybe in a couple of years time when we've paid off the wedding trip!

So the noodle bar - is it reserved for AAA only and do they check? There were quite a few seats there when we saw Wishes in November - but we saw the sign and thought we couldn't go in.

 

[Tammi67]

Evidently not! Elin made it in. Of course, she could be one of the "special" people and we dont know about it. wink wink.

 

[PNO4TE]

Evidently not! Elin made it in. Of course, she could be one of the "special" people and we dont know about it. wink wink.

Oh, I am special! And I am a AAA member, but I have no idea what you all are talking about! There were no signs posted that prohibited anyone from entering. After all, they were serving hot chocolate and cookies at the Noodle Station so I assume it was avaialble for all.

We have looked at that seating area for years and always it has been packed hours before the fireworks were to start. We looked over there about 8:30 and it was almost empty. So, we went over, grabbed two tables, went and got hot chocolate and cookies and settled in for a lovely show.

 

[rosiejo]

Aahh - hang on a minute is the noodle bar the counter service place? that is only recently a noodle bar?? I'm thinking of the chairs and tables right down by the river - the entrance is next to the noodle bar and that was roped off with the sign about AAA only...

 

[Tammi67]

DAY 5 - Wednesday - DVC Tour & AK

Today was the day that we got to sleep in, after our night at MVMCP. We woke up around 8:45 and had coffee and danishes in our room. The kids lounged around watching the Disney channel. DH and I knew that we wanted to look into DVC further, but really had no big block of free time in our schedule, other than this morning. I decided to call and see if they had anything available for today. I was able to get an early appt. The very nice CM was able to arrange a pickup at our resort for 11:10. Once we got to SSR we had a bit of a wait, but there was coffee, tea, granola bars, and cookies to keep us busy. The kids went to the babysitting area (forget the correct term) and Scot MacDonald took us on our tour. I was pretty well versed on the DVC, thanks to this board, and knew what it was all about, but DH was pretty clueless. Scot quickly got him up to speed, and we were both impressed with Disney's "Best Kept Secret." When we were finished, Scot provided us all with 2 FPs apiece, good for 48 hrs. These come in handy tomorrow. We then made our way to the ice cream parlor. I recommend going on the tour simply for this. When we were finished our driver took us to AK, in time for the last showing of Festival of the Lion King. This is by far my favorite show. I love those monkies! After this we found a spot to watch the parade. We grabbed a snack and conferred on what to do next. John wanted to go see ITTBAB, but Nicholas didn't want to smell the stink bug. John, Bob and Donna went to it and the kids and I walked around. We made our way to the Maharajah Jungle Trek, and spent a little time in there observing the bats, tigers and birds. After this we headed out to the busses. When we finally get down to our bus lane, Alyssa announces that she has to go potty. ARR! So, I take her all the way back to the entrance. Meanwhile, we miss the bus, however everyone else gets on it. By the way, we are on our way to AKL and Boma's for dinner. So, after we "take care of business", she and I eventually make it to AKL and catch up with the rest of our party. We were a bit early, I planned it this way, so we had time to check out the resort and the animals from some of the overlooks. It reminds me of WL. DARK.

We eventually make it down to Boma and get seated. We all agreed that the food here was delicious, some things more than others. This was a restaurant that we will definitely be coming back to. After dinner, we caught the bus back to our resort, got the kids in bed, and talked about DVC, should we or shouldn't we.

All in all this was a pretty quiet day, and we needed it.

 

[Tammi67]

DAY 7 - Thursday - MGM, Hoop Dee Doo & Spectro

As usual, we were up and out the door at 8AM and off to MGM. With the FPs that Scot provided us yesterday, I was able to obtain FPs for all of us for RnRC (except kids, too small) and ToT. So since we didn't need to wait for either of these thrill rides, we headed over to the first Power Ranger meet/greet. Nicholas about freaked out! He was so excited , especially when they come out in their car, with the engine revving and all. It really was pretty cool. There were only a handful of people here, so he was able to get autographs from everyone, the Green, Pink, Red, and White Rangers.

From there we walked onto The Great Movie Ride. The 2 girls that were our guides were awful. Oh well, it's still fun to walk down memory lane through all of those old movies. After this we all did Star Tours. None of us had ever rode this and we thought is was pretty lame, compared to all things Disney. Since it was quickly approaching the lunch hour, we headed over to ride RnRC and ToT. We wanted to get those done before lunch. Donna chickened out of both, so Bob, John and I rode RnRC. Neither child is big enough for this. Then on to ToT, which we all did. Nicholas rode this last year and loved it. Alyssa wasn't big enough then, but was this time. Her response was "That wasn't very good!" She didn't like it. But it was fun watching her face!

Since we were all very hungry we headed over to the Backlot Express and had burgers. We spent quite a bit of time waiting in line here. As we were heading away, the kids spotted the face painters and asked to get theirs done. Alyssa picked out Rose Princess and Nicholas got the Dragon Mask. They really looked good.

After lunch we needed some tame things so we strolled through One Man's Dream and watched the movie. When we exited Little Mermaid was getting ready to start, so we dashed in there. This is a cute show.

We then headed over to Beauty and the Beast. I knew we were going to be pushing it for this, and all the seating that was left was in the outside bleachers. Sitting so far away really detracted from the show. You don't feel like you are a part of it. Oh well, at least we got to see it.

Since I hadn't yet had a Mickey bar , we decided to stop for snacks on the way out. Alyssa had to be different and get an Itzakadoozie.

We had a 5pm ADR for Hoop Dee Doo, so we took the bus to Ft. Wilderness. We were a bit early so the kids ran around in the grass and visited all the ponies. This is such a funny show. We were seated almost in the very back. Last year we were right up near the stage. The food here is very good too. I love their chicken.

We took the boat over to MK for the 8pm Spectromagic Parade, and got a good spot on Main Street. I was really afraid that we wouldn't make it in time, but luck was on our side. This is by far my favorite parade. It put everyone in such a festive mood, with the snow and all on Main Street, that we decided to stay for Wishes. I didn't think the kids would last, but they were rarin' to go. We found a spot next to the Noodle Station. The kids spent some time trying on silly hats, and I snapped a few pictures. I get goosebumps just thinking about Wishes and what a beautiful display it is. Afterward we made our way down Main St, which was very crowded, and waited about 20 minutes for a bus back to FQ. This was truly a magical evening.

 

[Blueeyes101817]

sounds like another 2 great days tammi!!

 

[disneyeveryyear]

Thanks for more. I love to read them.