Sabotage de la Diet - *9/10* Amish Grace

[stitch09]

now go fly down the wire to Tomorrowland and make me cry. Love you.

I.Love.This.

I'm loving your trip report!! so entertaining!

 

[PrincessCaitlin]

I say DIS the idea My family's dream resorts are Boardwalk and Beach Club but we never thought we would actually stay there and now on our next trip we are staying at both. You never know how awesome those pin codes will be so you might as well try

Uh oh Tinkerbell is getting into some trouble don't introduce her to the bump it and tanning booths or we might have a new Snookie on our hands

I am sorry about the boat ride! It's aggravating how impolite people can be!

 

[creativeamanda]

LOL, I forgot to tell you to Dis the GF, NOT DISS.

But of course, you know you are not getting a completely unbiased set of opinions over here, right?

 

[Beka]

DIS the GF! How fun!

 

[Dsnygrl1205]

Loving the TR! You're cracking me up. I didn't get a lot of work done this afternoon once I found it:Can't wait to read more!

 

[Mich123]

I completely disregarded this earlier. Unfortunately I don't have any TRs or dining reviews. But I did get to try Club 33 during my last visit...maybe I should do an extremely delayed report. I was only there for a day, so I think a return trip is in the cards.

Three awful days at work and here you are three pages later...eeks!

Club 33!!!!!! WOW! That is totally worth a report.

 

[jakenjess]

I was a good Red Sox fan growing up in New England. Jose Canseco was my hero before I discovered Joan Crawford.

I hope you're still a Red Sox fan!

I need to know if the counsel would ever let me in. Then i'd get to put up these banners of giraffes, and pigs with mouseears. What are those all about? Are they sacrificed?

They'd be lucky to have you. Aren't those banners adorable? I certainly hope they're not sacrificed!

Before pressing on, I gotta be kind and rewind. If the SO and I had not run into Lady Tremaine and her daughters in the Magic Kingdom back on Day 2, I never would have been able to share it in this trip report, and I never would have discovered that they all appear at a character dinner over at the Grand Floridian. Get. Out. Where have I been? To quote Addams Family Values, “Get out of the cabin, I mean, I think I’m gonna kill myself.” Out of excitement! I know, morbid, but it thrills me to no end. Cinderella who? And then – GET THIS – Cinderella and Prince Valium appear too! All one big happy reality-TV family. Can you imagine the drama? I wonder if it’s anything like “Tony and Tina’s Wedding”. Real Housewives of New Jersey move over. I am so hanging with the stepsisters, they my peeps, yo. And I’ve always thought that stepmother was the cruelest villain of them all. When she figures out the crap that’s been going down in her house behind closed doors and locks Cinderella in the tower? That’s real life people, not magic. Real life bites. Real life is scary. Lady Tremaine is a VILLAIN. And I can’t wait to hug her and pose for pictures.

Aren't the stepsisters and Lady Tremaine the best?? We braved the truly awful 1900 Park Fair food once just to dine with them. They are hysterical. We met them in the MK once, I think it was at a Pirate and Princess Party, and they were the highlight of the evening.

If Disney summons that 40% discount in January during the cheapie-cheapie period, you can all look forward to my next trip report. Me in the Grand Floridian? I mean, in the words of Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa (who I want to be when I grow up), “How bad could that be?” I have had dreams about walking into that lobby and flying like Mary Martin.

Ooo, ooo, ooo, Ina is going to be here in my humble little town, I think it's this weekend, doing a fundraiser for a gubernatorial candidate who I can't remember at this moment . . . ok, ok, so I'm not big on the details, but anyway, I think she's awesome!!

And I will be 30 next year. Agh. So, there’s that. Loathe to admit it, but it crept up on me. What better way to celebrate than by finally going over to that Victorian palace on the lake? I leave it up to my fellow Dis’ers. Should I DIS or DISS this idea? I don’t want to be an astronaut, I don’t want to climb Mount Everest. I do want to have afternoon tea in a restaurant resembling a Titanic café. It’s psychological… the "need to stay there" clause. In the last analysis, a pricey hotel stay coupled with GF meals is honeymoon trajectory. Might as well collect oneself til then and go all out.

Well, I think that's just the best idea ever! Turning 30 at the GF? Yeah, baby! I have stayed at the GF AND celebrated my 30th B-day at the World (ok, so they were two separate trips, but you get the idea). Yes, you must find a way! We honeymooned at the GF and I LOVE THAT PLACE! Now that we've joined the DVC way 'o life I don't see us getting back there (but you never know -- celebrating the big 20th anniversary next year ). I would be first in line to read your trip report!

After the sugar cookie ice cream sandwich pit stop at Sassagooooula Floatworks, we tied our bags of Potter goods onto two newly acquired Firebolts from Dervish and Banges and sent them off to our room. Naturally a few people asked what happened and we reassured them that it was all a part of the Disney magic. Tinker Bell was pissed we'd outsourced alternative pixie dust, but she got over it. And if she wanted to hold a grudge, I told her I'd stop clapping. That got her attention. But really Tinkerbell, when I saw a commercial for your new Fairies franchise accompanied by Green Day's "Time of Your Life" I lost my fluff. You are supposed to be a mischievous little James Barrie character, not something out of The Hills. And your role is silent! Here's a "bell" to "tinker", now go fly down the wire to Tomorrowland and make me cry. Love you.

Oh. My. God. I am on the floor.

Wouldn't you know that the ENTIRE boat ride, ringleader flipflop girl and her DS/SIL/BFF/whatever proceeded to talk about how “Sally and Madison could have TOTALLY got on the boat because there was room before they got on.". Oh it sucks to be the "they".

These people should be banned from the World, I say, banned!! They obviously can't play nicely with others.

I must have forgotten that earlier WDW video from my childhood, the one that preceded the Delta-sponsored epic commercial entitled “A Dream Called Walt Disney World”, which I’m sure has found a place on the internet by now. It featured the treehouses (I know the originals have rotted and dissolved, but these looked perfect to me) and exotic Florida peacocks, and the brassy musak of dining aboard the Empress Lily. And that’s where we here headed! No, not Fulton’s, but we were headed to Downtown Disney. Yay!!![/COLOR][/SIZE]

I HAVE THAT VIDEO!!!! We pull it out every once in a while, just love it. "Just park the car, grab the kids, and go! Cause getting there is half the fun!" Love it! The DH and I actually had dinner on the Empress Lily back on our very first trip together.

Incredible update, Billy. I laughed, I cried, I felt so much.

 

[MarieTheCat24]

You absolutely should stay at the Grand Floridian!! Isn't Disney all about making dreams come true? Especially if your wildest dream is becoming poor. They are REALLY good at making that happen. But seriously, if you can get a good deal, you should totally do it. The Grand Floridian is gorgeous, and even though I've never stayed there, I think you'll enjoy it.

I am so sorry you had to deal with those kind of people on the boat. I hate when big groups refuse to split up. The world isn't designed for you to constantly travel around with 80 other people. And God forbid your aunt's uncle's best friend's daughter's dentist can't ride on the same boat as you. It's not like you're abandoning him forever. People are just ridiculous.

 

[Bridora]

Well. Grand Floridian? You could always stay for a night or two and then move on. Or you could just go for a day visit, you can still dine with Lady Tremaine & Co. and have tea, take a stroll along the beach, etc. Or is it all or nothing?


Oh my, to that group waiting on a boat. Crazies!

Ah, the Treehouse Villas...I would love to stay there! You know, one day you'll be staying there on your very own DVC points...

 

[Disneygrl36]

You are hi-larious..... Your bit about the firebolts & pixie dust & Tink......great writing!!!!!

I say DIS the GF....you only turn 30 once & it's a big bday. Treat yourself. We have never stayed there, but love doing afternoon tea there. I WILL stay there one day myself too!!!!

Ding-bats on a boat Why are people so ridiculous?

 

[Sassagoula Billy]

Great update. It truly aggravates me that people make a "they" issue. When you are traveling with a big group, then you have to expect to possibly split up from time to time.

I love the boat ride to Downtown Disney, but if she had somewhere she needed to be, she would have been better off taking the bus.

Sigh, she was one of those lemmings one must deal with every so often. The rules to other lemmings - groups of 5 at the most - also applied to her, dagnabit! And don't forget that she also had Biff with her. (If Biff saw anyone try to get in front of his darling gathering, he'd probably have thrown them in the Sassagoula river.)

I just hope when they got to their priority seating at T-Rex that a dinosaur ate them. Thanks for reading!

I.Love.This.

I'm loving your trip report!! so entertaining!

They could tear down the geosphere, close Peter Pan's Flight, or turn Le Cellier into Victoria and Alberts II. But if they ever stopped Tinkerbell from screaming her way into Tomorrowland, I'd never forgive them! Glad you're enjoying the report!

I say DIS the idea My family's dream resorts are Boardwalk and Beach Club but we never thought we would actually stay there and now on our next trip we are staying at both. You never know how awesome those pin codes will be so you might as well try

It just feels like a real possibility. I've got the right rate, the right occasion, and the most understanding traveling companion. Now I'll plan it into the ground and drive myself crazier than usual!

Uh oh Tinkerbell is getting into some trouble don't introduce her to the bump it and tanning booths or we might have a new Snookie on our hands

Lol!!! Seriously!

Aw, you guys get my humor. Do you know how amazing that is? Disney boards across the net never made me feel so connected before.

I am sorry about the boat ride! It's aggravating how impolite people can be!

That's the only aspect of a WDW trip that makes coming home remotely tolerable. Hello Empire State building, should one of those tourists who kept me waiting an hour for a boat to DtD EVER stop me in the street and ask how to get to you, I'll tell them to wait for the next New Yorker. Watch out Biff, I'll point you towards the Upper West Side where multitasking mamas will run you over with bugaboo baby carriages on their way to the Reebok Sports Club. Or better yet, I'll get Kelly Ripa to kungfu your behind on Central Park West. Or I'll drop you off between the WTC site and Wall Street at lunchtime. And you thought Animal Kingdom was claustrophobic.

Raaaawr!!!

LOL, I forgot to tell you to Dis the GF, NOT DISS.

But of course, you know you are not getting a completely unbiased set of opinions over here, right?

It's gonna happen, all there is to it. It must!

DIS the GF! How fun!

Might as well make a grand expenditure...sound like fun! Thanks for reading

Loving the TR! You're cracking me up. I didn't get a lot of work done this afternoon once I found it:Can't wait to read more!

Thanks so much! I need to get my nose to the grindstone too!

Three awful days at work and here you are three pages later...eeks!

Club 33!!!!!! WOW! That is totally worth a report.

If I ever go back to Club 33, you will see a report! I'm hoping to take the SO, so maybe within the next two years.

I hope you're still a Red Sox fan!

Once a Catholic!

They'd be lucky to have you. Aren't those banners adorable? I certainly hope they're not sacrificed!

They look mysterious, like something from an M. Night Shamalamalan movie. I wonder if DVC'ers make crop circles. But they're pretty! (the aminals, not the crop circles)

Aren't the stepsisters and Lady Tremaine the best?? We braved the truly awful 1900 Park Fair food once just to dine with them. They are hysterical. We met them in the MK once, I think it was at a Pirate and Princess Party, and they were the highlight of the evening.

I am soo jealous!!! But now I know why I've never heard of 1900 Park Fare. It's craptastic! Oh well, we'll just fill up on afternoon teacakes and Sally Lunn's Soul. Do you know how many times I've read that menu? I also hope the tea is something out of The Witches, minus the whole diabetic grandmother and Anjelica Huston. Although if they showed up, I can guarantee you the SO and I would pee our pants.

Ooo, ooo, ooo, Ina is going to be here in my humble little town, I think it's this weekend, doing a fundraiser for a gubernatorial candidate who I can't remember at this moment . . . ok, ok, so I'm not big on the details, but anyway, I think she's awesome!!

AAHHH!! Are you going? Republican, democrat, who cares -- Ina is God. Have you ever seen anyone so just, like, well, make a black blouse look so stylish and yet casual? Why can't I be her gay best friend? I mean, how hard is it to put some flowers in a box and line the thing with vintage wallpaper? If I can pass it off as a gift, I have a 99% change of swinging a meal out of it with she and Jeffrey.

Well, I think that's just the best idea ever! Turning 30 at the GF? Yeah, baby! I have stayed at the GF AND celebrated my 30th B-day at the World (ok, so they were two separate trips, but you get the idea). Yes, you must find a way! We honeymooned at the GF and I LOVE THAT PLACE! Now that we've joined the DVC way 'o life I don't see us getting back there (but you never know -- celebrating the big 20th anniversary next year ). I would be first in line to read your trip report!

You honeymooned at the GF? Look at this, Ina Garten and now our love for the GF. I'm telling you, it's a radio show on NPR waiting to happen. Congratulations-in-advance on 20 years with the hubby! Maybe our GF trips will overlap? I'll just keep telling myself this trip could work... a dream is a wish your creditors make. But Lori, I don't want to turn 30. It looks so.. 30. A young summer intern at work today didn't know the song "The Girl from Ipanema", and I thought.. despite anyone telling you how young you look, it's impossible that anyone could NOT know that song. In which case, you're getting older... if that makes sense. Oh, and someone on the Theme Parks and Attraction boards said 29 was too old to ride Space Mountain without it feeling bumpy and uncomfortable. It's like when Judy Garland turned 26 and was called a has-been. I can't take it!

These people should be banned from the World, I say, banned!! They obviously can't play nicely with others.

They should be put in a room with Lotso the bear.

I HAVE THAT VIDEO!!!! We pull it out every once in a while, just love it. "Just park the car, grab the kids, and go! Cause getting there is half the fun!" Love it! The DH and I actually had dinner on the Empress Lily back on our very first trip together.

Wait! That's my favorite part, except I misquoted it for YEARS. "Just leave the kids, grab the car and go!" There's magic in all the things you can do... and when you're done and you think you are through... you TURN around and then there's more than you ever dreamed of!

And then Winnie-The-Pooh's nose moves. And then and then... um, and then it goes into split screen like something out of Carrie. But then it goes into four screens. And I love that Valley of the Dolls Broadway dinner show in the Contemporary, and the obnoxious girl laughing at Hoop-De-Doo. Dick Clark and Richard Chamberlain in line for EVERY ride. Okay, so it isn't them.

Yeah... love that video. Makes me want to put on bellbottoms and an orange angora sweater, and head on down to the boat dock for a thrilling and terrifying journey aboard...the Jungle Cruise.

Incredible update, Billy. I laughed, I cried, I felt so much.

Thanks Lori!

You absolutely should stay at the Grand Floridian!! Isn't Disney all about making dreams come true? Especially if your wildest dream is becoming poor. They are REALLY good at making that happen. But seriously, if you can get a good deal, you should totally do it. The Grand Floridian is gorgeous, and even though I've never stayed there, I think you'll enjoy it.

I am so sorry you had to deal with those kind of people on the boat. I hate when big groups refuse to split up. The world isn't designed for you to constantly travel around with 80 other people. And God forbid your aunt's uncle's best friend's daughter's dentist can't ride on the same boat as you. It's not like you're abandoning him forever. People are just ridiculous.

Yes, Grand Floridian is my new daily affirmation, well, one of many... but it's there. I affirm that it can happen, even if for a night, and I plan on it happening soon.

And here's to the aunt's uncle's best friend's daughter's dentist waiting in line just like the rest of us! Talk about root canal! Leave your work at home for god's sake.

Well. Grand Floridian? You could always stay for a night or two and then move on. Or you could just go for a day visit, you can still dine with Lady Tremaine & Co. and have tea, take a stroll along the beach, etc. Or is it all or nothing?

Lady Tremaine & Co. That sounds like the most perfect store everywhere. They could sell greed, venom and ADRs to Le Cellier. It would be the first existential Disney shop on Main Street. And I would be their biggest client. But yes, even if we don't stay at the GF, I'll make sure to just get over it and walk through the doors... unashamed. But, unfortunately for me, it's all or nothing. A trend in my life, really. OCDis'er to the end.

Oh my, to that group waiting on a boat. Crazies!

You know when you're enjoying yourself at Disney and suddenly nasty people swallow up the happy in the room? Well, this was no room.. it was a river. And they managed to devour all the joy along the entire Sassagoula.

Ah, the Treehouse Villas...I would love to stay there! You know, one day you'll be staying there on your very own DVC points...

Classic Disney. I want to see armadillos and spotted ibis or Scarlet, I don't know what they're called... it's on the old Disney vacation video. And I want Florence Henderson to make franks and beans. And hopefully there'll be a tether ball thingamajig. For all of that, I would gladly invest in the DVC empire!

 

[Sassagoula Billy]

You are hi-larious..... Your bit about the firebolts & pixie dust & Tink......great writing!!!!!

I say DIS the GF....you only turn 30 once & it's a big bday. Treat yourself. We have never stayed there, but love doing afternoon tea there. I WILL stay there one day myself too!!!!

Ding-bats on a boat Why are people so ridiculous?

Thank you, Tink's been so troublesomely handled lately! And I'm so glad to hear nice things about the afternoon tea. Have you ever done a TR on it? I don't know, I've kind of stayed away from GF threads too, don't want to be spoiled. And that goes for the restaurants, too. But you don't see Citricos and Narcotics all that often. I know, I'm going to hell... but that's how I always read that last restaurant. Sure takes the romance out of it, right?

And I love the ding-bats on a boat smiley!

 

[LuluLovesDisney]

I totally agree about Tink! She is supposed to tinkle not talk!

But onto more important issues

You have to stay at the GF!! And have almost-Titanic but better because it is Disney and will not sink Afternoon Tea and Spa time and V&A's and everything!! DON'T put things off because you never know. When opportunity comes, take it. What if Walt had said, I won't build this idea yet, it is too soon? You will make MORE dreams to come true later! Do this one now!

(On a downer note, my good friend who came to my wedding this past Nov. passed away at age 32 in Feb. and I am so glad he was able to come to the wedding now. We can't predict the future, so live life to the fullest now!!)

Lady Tremaine is waiting for you!!

 

[jakenjess]

AAHHH!! Are you going? Republican, democrat, who cares -- Ina is God. Have you ever seen anyone so just, like, well, make a black blouse look so stylish and yet casual? Why can't I be her gay best friend? I mean, how hard is it to put some flowers in a box and line the thing with vintage wallpaper? If I can pass it off as a gift, I have a 99% change of swinging a meal out of it with she and Jeffrey.

Oh, I wish! But one, I think it's probably a bit out of my budget, and two, I have this little thing I have to do called picking the kids up at summer camp. I doubt they'd find it humorous if I dumped them for Ina.

Congratulations-in-advance on 20 years with the hubby! Maybe our GF trips will overlap? I'll just keep telling myself this trip could work... a dream is a wish your creditors make. But Lori, I don't want to turn 30. It looks so.. 30. A young summer intern at work today didn't know the song "The Girl from Ipanema", and I thought.. despite anyone telling you how young you look, it's impossible that anyone could NOT know that song. In which case, you're getting older... if that makes sense. Oh, and someone on the Theme Parks and Attraction boards said 29 was too old to ride Space Mountain without it feeling bumpy and uncomfortable. It's like when Judy Garland turned 26 and was called a has-been. I can't take it!

Thanks! It would be oh-so-cool if we were at the World at the same time. Methinks a couple of margs at La Cava?? I tell you, turning 30 is SO much easier when you're ensconced in the magic. As someone who is let's say just a few years older than 30 I still love Space Mountain! "A Dream is a Wish your Creditors Make" oh, my gosh I'm glad I didn't have a mouth full of coffee when I read that; it wouldn't have been a pretty sight!! It's my life motto!!

Wait! That's my favorite part, except I misquoted it for YEARS. "Just leave the kids, grab the car and go!" There's magic in all the things you can do... and when you're done and you think you are through... you TURN around and then there's more than you ever dreamed of!

And then Winnie-The-Pooh's nose moves. And then and then... um, and then it goes into split screen like something out of Carrie. But then it goes into four screens. And I love that Valley of the Dolls Broadway dinner show in the Contemporary, and the obnoxious girl laughing at Hoop-De-Doo. Dick Clark and Richard Chamberlain in line for EVERY ride. Okay, so it isn't them.

Yeah... love that video. Makes me want to put on bellbottoms and an orange angora sweater, and head on down to the boat dock for a thrilling and terrifying journey aboard...the Jungle Cruise.

Leave the kids!! (There'd be mutiny) Yeah, I don't think I have the quote exactly right either. I need to get it out and watch it again. The DH and I actually saw that dinner show on our first trip together! It was at the Top of the World Lounge (now known as the Cali Grill), and I got tears watching the fireworks from the observation deck and from then on I was hooked. The rest is history . . .

 

[Sassagoula Billy]

The old man and the Sassagoula river brought us to our destination at the Downtown Disney Marketplace boat dock near Cap'n Jack's. The SO and I managed to scurry forth past Biff and his ladies (the ringleader was on the phone making a distress call back to the French Quarter, wondering how and when the rest of her caravan were all going to meet up). It felt like the Amazing Race, and the looks on the two girls' faces gave one the feeling that there was a cash prize awaiting them at the finish line. Maybe they could use these winnings to buy lingerie straps that went under their clothing rather than over it. Unless it's a Lady Gaga thing, in which case, ra ra ooh la la, want your bad romance.

Okay, so our options. I've never been to Cap'n Jacks, and never heard anything good about it. There was Fulton's. When last I went there in 2003 or so I don't remember having as enjoyable a time as I had previously. I've been hearing good things again, but I decided against it. Plus, we'd already spent a fortune that week on dining, and a dinner at Fulton's will set you back. T-Rex was spectacularly horrid last year. Portobello Yacht Club, now just Portobello (hey, if Cher can do it), was always lovely but pricey. Heavy Italian just wasn't cutting it after a long day at Harry Potter. Yes, this is the SAME day. How long can I possibly go on about ONE day. Do you know how much I have to cover at the end of all this?

That leaves Rainforest Cafe.

And I'd like to say that in the tradition of all my Rainforest Cafe-going (two times in 2004, and that was it), we were able to jump the line. Now maybe it's just here at Downtown Disney and this wouldn't apply to the one at AK, but there's something here that I'd like to call... drumroll please...the Velvet Mafia.



Yes, sometimes the Velvet Mafia will find you a room upgrade or a window seat at the California Grill, maybe even bring you a free drink. But it's all a matter of luck, timing, and how good your hair is looking. Or in the case of the SO, how good his buzz is looking; and since it looks good all the time, I'd say he's set. In any case, it is CONSISTENTLY in the works at the Rainforest Cafe-Downtown Disney. This is scientific research, people.

First I'll tell you about 2004. My best friend and I walk up to the girl at the podium who tells us there is a two hour wait. I don't remember if Priority Seatings were accepted then, but regardless, how outrageous is that (for the first week of December no less)? Who waits two hours for freakin' Rainforest Cafe? But we'd never been, and I thought the waterfall and volcano looked fun. I still think the volcano's... well, the store is... oh whatever. Anyhow, we take three steps away from the podium and voila, a chipper CM (Rainforest Cafe worker) walks up to us and says "If y'all don't mind a 10 minute wait, I'll find you boys a table." And we had a table.

Now, the second time this happened was later that same trip. Why did we go back? The coconut shrimp. We had ordered it as an appetizer and wanted to go back to get it as our entree. The second time wasn't as good as the first, but getting into the restaurant was a breeze! We walk up, the guy at the podium says there's a 90 minute wait. "It's pretty crowded for December, isn't it?" He picks up the phone and covers the mouthpiece, "there's a free table on the patio that should be cleared in 10 minutes". So we sit out on the patio. Not as fun as inside, but it beats waiting an hour and a half. I felt guilty both times, but thought, why fight it? We're here for the shrimp.

Fast-forward to 2010. The SO looks up at the restaurant and we're both in awe. Not because it's extraordinary or anything, but because we haven't had a meal all day. And then we're in awe of the crowds. "Don't worry", I told him as I made sure my hair looked presentable, "shouldn't be a problem". Okay so they now take ADRs. Bah. This time, the podium has two CMs, a boy and a girl around the ages of 22-25. Might be a toughie.

"How long's the wait?"

"About 45 minutes".

Not so bad especially for a hot summer evening. But the SO and I think that maybe we should just cut our losses and go to the Earl of Sandwich. But then, the guy says, "Just take this, go inside to the front of the line and you'll be seated."

Okay. So, we pass all of these people waiting in line and we're in the restaurant in, what, 5 minutes? What's going on here? I can only attribute it to the velvet underground. Either that, or we've been insanely lucky. Why couldn't it be for something cool like... I can't think of anything now. But, hey, it's something right? I'm sure the party of 2 factor doesn't hurt things. Now, the girl who brought us to our table was absolutely adorable. She led us around that restaurant like we were taking measurements. It was like chutes and ladders. Up one aisle, down another. Soon I spot a table underneath a painted rainbow. Oh no. Please no.

"Where are you taking us?", I said out of the corner of my mouth.

She smiled, "To my favorite table."

Oh no. Please not the rainbow please not the rainbow. Phew, past the rainbow. Set for Track Course B after all. So we keep walking. I wonder what her favorite table is. We spot ahead of us this cozy little nook of a booth/table framed by a large wavy aquarium. She explained it was her favorite place because the table number spelled out the word "Love". I don't know if she meant numerology or what, but it was probably the most romantic moment of the trip. And at the RAINFOREST CAFE, what is it with this place? How can I ever rag on it? Though I always laugh at people who avoid gay days for reasons beyond the crowds (78% of the workforce plays for my team, so don't worry, you're surrounded), Rainforest Cafe must be the mother ship. We had the most precious little seat in our own corner with our own private Finding Nemo aquarium. I don't know if that movie spawned a royal blue tang invasion, or if they were always there before, but they're everywhere, right?

Here's the SO having a serious moment with the fishies:

More fishies:

Our server was like something out of AI: Artificial Intelligence. Robotic but well-meaning. He asked what we wanted to drink and I said, "Something that blinks or lights up and has alcohol in it." This disrupted his pre-programming, and he started rambling off drink names that meant absolutely nothing to me. "Do you have glow cubes?" I was on a glow cube kick. He asked me what I meant. I told him it's the Rainforest Cafe, they've got to have a drink that lights up or blinks and has alcohol in it. He flipped over my menu and pointed to the drinks. Ugh. Okay, so I found the light-up drink and ordered it. The SO opted for an iced tea, teetotaler that he is.

And then....

"There's your drink, Billy."

This wasn't just a delicately colorful concotion, this was Close Encounters of the Third Kind ON ACID. I think I was going into epileptic shock. Quick, where's the off button! The SO and I got used to it, once we found the off button, but hey... I mean, it's a chain restaurant on vacation. Give me unrecognizable sugar and alcohol in a sparkly cup and I'm a happy camper. What did it taste like? Like corn syrup and alcohol. Pineapple? Rum? Who knows from that? But if you're in the mood for a swizzle stick and some cheap liquor they do it well.

When our robot boy returned to take our orders, I found it brilliant that he confirmed our selections by announcing their full names. So, I ordered the cheeseburger, and he said "Okay, one Jumpin' Jungle Hoedown with Mojo Sauce". I can't think of a better smiley. The SO ordered, jeez what did he order? I think it was the Turkey Wrap. Which was probably the "Jungle Party Turkey". As an appetizer, we ordered the chimichanga/spring rolls which our server confirmed as the "Chimi cha-chas".

"Will that be all? Can I interest you in the Kowabunga Platter for Two?" Does this guy need a reboot? The SO loved the little rainstorm that happens every 20 minutes or so. I did too. It reminds me of the opening sequence to Living with the Land, same smell too from the air conditioning. That stale, copywritten air conditioning.



After a few sips of fun, Hayley Joel Osment reappeared. "Here are your chimi-cha-chas. Enjoy." Crunchy and soaked in oil, my first chimi-cha-cha didn't seem to be cha-chaing too well with that flashy corn syrup and alcohol. The chicken and corn had a nice spice to it, though. Just as soon as we were through with our appetizer, our sandwiches arrived. My rubber bacon burger was massive and dry. The mojo sauce definitely needed viagra. But hey, at least we were eating. I think the turkey wrap was a winner with the SO though. I don't remember the fries, but I know that our plates were clean lickety split because we were hungry. But you got that T.G.I.F. salt overload aftertaste which is especially noticeable after a week of fine dining.

We had asked for water but it wasn't brought out to us until after our bill arrived. I guess it was a Flash update he hadn't yet installed, or a system software something or other. I wish the podium crew also worked the tables. I took a few sips of vile Lake Buena Vista agua, my first glass of water that day, and off we went. First we spent a few minutes, okay, a few seconds in the Rainforest Cafe store to do a puppet show with one of the treefrog plushes. I was like, "look isn't he great". The SO did his trademarked sad laugh which translates to "I really don't want to watch this movie." Besides, it was time to find dessert, I thought that after the sparkly drink cup, the volcano sundae at Rainforest Cafe might be pushing it. So off we went beneath an overcast sky.

There are variations of the Disney bakery/fudge counter throughout not just WDW but now, even Universal. Honeydukes, Main Street, Villains in Vogue, they all have this pre-fabricated counter. And we all line up for chocolate covered everything don't we? I wouldn't be surprised if they started offering chocolate covered ADRs. I wonder if the new World of Disney store in Times Square will have a Goofy's Kitchen counter. Can you imagine? I'd be sabotaging la diet every weekend. Truly though, Disney should think about expanding this idea. 5 bucks for a piece of fudge is a nationwide rollout goldmine. Anyhow, the one foodstuff we didn't find at Honeydukes, Main Street or Villains, were the giant cookie domes that are slightly raw in the middle; the ones I wrote about earlier in the TR. We'd been examining each counter to no avail. So when Kona Cafe was a no-go, the true purpose of a return trip down the Sassagoula was the great goofy cookie hunt.

 

[PrincessCaitlin]

I hate it when you can see girls bras straps I really hope they won!

Awesome luck at the Rainforest Cafe! The comment about the mojo sauce needing Viagra was hilarious!

No trip to DTD is complete without a stop at Goofy'S!

 

[Sassagoula Billy]

I totally agree about Tink! She is supposed to tinkle not talk!

Hopefully not all over the audience! Kidding.

You have to stay at the GF!! And have almost-Titanic but better because it is Disney and will not sink Afternoon Tea and Spa time and V&A's and everything!! DON'T put things off because you never know. When opportunity comes, take it. What if Walt had said, I won't build this idea yet, it is too soon? You will make MORE dreams to come true later! Do this one now!

Oh, I don't want to put it off, but I just have to make sure my wallet can handle it! But there's another ingredient in the mix, it's wanting to make sure I can really appreciate and "take it all in".

(On a downer note, my good friend who came to my wedding this past Nov. passed away at age 32 in Feb. and I am so glad he was able to come to the wedding now. We can't predict the future, so live life to the fullest now!!)!

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. You really do re-examine the time you carve out to spend with loved ones. We get so wrapped up in work and achievement, but the downtime is especially important.

Lady Tremaine is waiting for you!!

I hope she gives me a hug. Probably not, but here's hoping. Thanks for reading Lulu!

Oh, I wish! But one, I think it's probably a bit out of my budget, and two, I have this little thing I have to do called picking the kids up at summer camp. I doubt they'd find it humorous if I dumped them for Ina.

But I'm sure Ina could work it into one of her shows. Like, "Surprise the Kids at Summer Camp with Baguettes and Cheese!" So what if they have to wait 'til the counselors light the tiki torches. It's character building.

Thanks! It would be oh-so-cool if we were at the World at the same time. Methinks a couple of margs at La Cava?? I tell you, turning 30 is SO much easier when you're ensconced in the magic. As someone who is let's say just a few years older than 30 I still love Space Mountain! "A Dream is a Wish your Creditors Make" oh, my gosh I'm glad I didn't have a mouth full of coffee when I read that; it wouldn't have been a pretty sight!! It's my life motto!!

Did someone say La Cava? I am so there sister. I want to try the flight of margaritas next time. Game? We can celebrate the Always-30 Birthday Party. Keep the credit card companies in business.

Leave the kids!! (There'd be mutiny) Yeah, I don't think I have the quote exactly right either. I need to get it out and watch it again. The DH and I actually saw that dinner show on our first trip together! It was at the Top of the World Lounge (now known as the Cali Grill), and I got tears watching the fireworks from the observation deck and from then on I was hooked. The rest is history . . .

You got the quote right! A brown cadillac pulls up to the TTC parking lot and the happy family trots off. I am again jealous that you were able to do these fabulous things. The Top of the World Lounge? Did they sing "As Long As He Needs Me" or was it all Gordon Lightfoot? Either one works for me. No, I really really wish I could have seen that show. Did you also see the Luau show at the Poly?

I hate it when you can see girls bras straps I really hope they won!

Awesome luck at the Rainforest Cafe! The comment about the mojo sauce needing Viagra was hilarious!

No trip to DTD is complete without a stop at Goofy'S!

What Not To Wear has got to do a show at Disney sometime. I never got the fashion gene myself, but sometimes I want to walk up to people and say, "I demand an explanation." Thanks to Rita Rudner for that.

And yes, Goofy's kitchen in the next update!

 

[MagicStitch]

I have absolutely ADORED your TR. It is one of the best I have ever read! It has been so entertaining that I have had to bite my lip to keep from laughing out loud in the middle of the office!! You rock!!!

I started reading about your HP adventures over on the Universal board and I was delighted to find your full report here!! Thank you so much for all the awesome pics of HP. I am a huge Potter fan and am planning on going down in September and can't get enough!! I too am not a big Universal fan. I have been twice in my life, once when I was pretty young and again on my Senior Trip (I won't say how long ago that was! ). I remember some really cool rides but that was back when Back to the Future still existed and there was no IOA. I am definitely ready to give it a chance (anything for Harry..lol), but I am such a Disney girl at heart that I am a bit scared! However, after reading your report, everything sounds amazing and I can't even wait... now I just have to convince my not to eager DH.. that he wants to go to Disney/Universal... sigh.

Can't wait to read the rest of the report and hear how the great cook hunt turns out!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Dsnygrl1205]

*The SO and I managed to scurry forth past Biff and his ladies (the ringleader was on the phone making a distress call back to the French Quarter, wondering how and when the rest of her caravan were all going to meet up). *It felt like the Amazing Race, and the looks on the two girls' faces gave one the feeling that there was a cash prize awaiting them at the finish line. *Maybe they could use these winnings to buy lingerie straps that went under their clothing rather than over it. *Unless it's a Lady Gaga thing, in which case, ra ra ooh la la, want your bad romance.

So funny! Somebody (maybe you) should start a dos and don'ts of WDW fashion. Like the one in the back of Glamour Magazine!

 

[KrazyKat4DIS]

Another reader coming out of lurkdom here!

I am really enjoying your TR! I followed you over from your dining report (I know, I am such a stalker!), and I am loving all of it. I especially like it because you guys seem to have similar taste to DBF and me and we're planning our first WDW for the upcoming future (we're late 20s, early 30s, or as I like to point out to him, I'm still in my 20s, but he's a grown-up ). We decided to not to the dining plan as well, as we will have days currently at Disneyland (we go there often) where we eat sugar cookies, etc all day and only have one "real" meal. Well for me, it's more like Mickey pretzels and churros, but whatev...

I know one of our fav places will be La Cava! I love nothing better than a margarita. and your review made me salivate!

Can't wait for more!