Sailing with the Gang...DCL magic, Feb. 2016

[mom2rtk]

I was amazed they didn't have anything for a family of 5 or 6.

I'm really surprised by that. I guess the only larger families they want are the ones with enough cash for 2 rooms!


Ok, I am lost here. Are you talking about the new light versus the old Chihuly. The new light is ugly in my opinion. Just not my style. I worry they will do the same to the Wonder this fall. Hopefully Disney has listened to all the complaints.

Yes, that's the one I was talking about. So ugly. So strange! I can't imagine ever taking time to complain about a light fixture, but that one just might get me to!


I love lighthouse shots and was pretty happy with these.

So do you now retire on top? Or do you keep taking lighthouse pictures?


It's an amazing show. I wish we could still take pictures.

You know I was going to mention that, but decided I was probably starting to sound like a broken record.



It was cold. This whole cruise was colder than my Alaskan cruise. LOL. though you may have liked it...Cass loved it.

Yes, I would probably like it!


I love the cruise ships. I am wishing I was rich so I could sail a few times a year.

I haven't been even once but still wish I could!


Well nothing wrong with that except I might puke after from being too full. hahaha

I still might give it a try!


I do have a tendency to get motion sick. Usually with bonine I am pretty ok. As I have gotten older I feel it more though. It was pretty darn rocky. I pray in Oct we have smooth seas as my sister gets sicker than I do. And little Abby (who will be 7 when we go) does too.

After all these cruises, I can't believe I didn't know that about you! I'm sorry your cruise was particularly rocky. Sounds like it could be an interesting cruise in October. Fingers crossed for smooth sailing!


Me too. I hate having to head right back. The plan now is to do that in Oct, though the flights are a lot cheaper the next day and you know how Disney Math works. I just can't find a cheap hotel for the night though. Plus with Mom with me, I think she won't understand Disney Math.

Sounds like your mom needs some tutoring in Disney math!

 

[mom2rtk]

So which resort did you like better, All Star Sports...... or the Poly?

I would have been disappointed in the sports theming on a Disney trip, but can sure see the draw for parents of young boys. I think it was smart for you to stay there on a one night stay. Now you can go stay at all the rest knowing the least Disney resort is marked off your list!

 

[TestingH2O]

What's the quality like at a value resort? I have to say, the photos I see around make it look like a motel.

 

[jenseib]

It looks like a nice and relaxing day. The photos reminded me just how much I dislike the theming of that resort. Shame that the parents did not supervise the kids.

Corinna

I know many who love this resort and it's not a bad place. Just not for me.

ASSports - my least favourite resort! Like you, that is one theming I really don't care for.

I am so not into sports so it is all lost on me. LOL.

And saying goodbye to a friend is never easy, especially since you spent so much time together.

It was sad to say goodbye. Cass lives soooooo far away from me, so it's not as easy to see her. Brook lives far away but I have been able to get together with her over the years about 4 or 5 times. We were going to travel again this summer together...but she went off and planned a European vacation with her family. LOL. I guess I would take that over a work trip too.

And ...... thanks to you I learned something new today. I never knew you were not allowed to bring a suitcase onto Disney transport. Guess since we always drive and usually transport our luggage yourself it never crossed my mind. But good to know. Thank you!

Yeah, it's not allowed but I have read where other people have done it. I am guessing mid day it's not as big of an issue since the buses are not as full. But officially they are not supposed to allow people with suitcases on. And this girl didn't have 1. She had a couple.

Sounds like your mom needs some tutoring in Disney math!

She does.! hahaha. But in reality, when I priced out places, the only one coming up in an ideal price range is Sports. I really don't want to repeat it. I would love if Music was my option as that is my last Value to conquer. I would repeat Movies or Pop too. I am not ready to buy air yet anyways. Like you, I need to spend the money I have wisely and first I have to finish paying off the cruise. If it comes down to air being 150 or more cheaper to stay another night then I might bite the bullet and look at Sports again. But sleeping in a double bed with Claire also does not come highly on my fun things to do list!

So which resort did you like better, All Star Sports...... or the Poly?

Um....that would be Poly! I liked it much more than I thought I would. I just loved the location. Being on the monorail ROCKS!!!

I would have been disappointed in the sports theming on a Disney trip, but can sure see the draw for parents of young boys. I think it was smart for you to stay there on a one night stay. Now you can go stay at all the rest knowing the least Disney resort is marked off your list!

If I was going to be in the parks the majority of the time over a longer trip, then it wouldn't be bad. But no one in my family is a sports lover.

What's the quality like at a value resort? I have to say, the photos I see around make it look like a motel.

I am not sure what you mean by quality.
All the Value resorts are pretty much motels, but at Disney all are called resorts.
The rooms are smaller than a mod or deluxe, but I have never found them too small for us. The pools are always nice and they have good food courts. Yes there is a different feel there compared to deluxes and even mods. We love Pop Century as a family. We have stayed there about 4 times I think. I have never had a bad room and they tend to update them every few years. Rumor is Pop rooms will be getting a complete makeover in the next few years. I saw some concept photos and I personally didn't like the look, but I know others did.
If you plan to spend a lot of time in your room or at your resort then I don't think a Value will work for all. The worst part about Value is that they are double beds verses queens at all the other resorts. That can be a deal breaker for some. When we have stayed in the past, my husband and I each took a bed and my daughter would switch back and forth and sleep with each of us. Actually she did that when we stayed at OKW too. It's kind of a vacation thing we do (except on cruises...she has to sleep on her own on a ship) and I think it's something she looks forward to. She is now 11 so the year of sleeping with mom or dad for fun are probably coming to an end.
I would say for anyone who is a self proclaimed hotel snob, they probably would not like the Values so much. I am pretty easy going and though I like some places over others (and of course who doesn't like nicer rooms) I am pretty happy at all Disney resorts. For me with the Values I just tend to like theming at some over the others. I have never had a bad bed at a Value and I have a bad back. I have heard others complain about them...and of course some at mods and deluxes. When it comes to beds though, it depends on what you like and it's hard to please everyone.

 

[TestingH2O]

Thanks for the details. I guess when I see motels, I immediately think of bad beds, not as clean, poor lighting, not a great shower, etc.

 

[jenseib]

Soon I was at Disney Springs.


springs1 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs2 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs3 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs4 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs5 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I tried to get a lot of shots as it has been awhile since I have been here, but I still never made it very far and missed a lot of the new stuff. We plan to spend half a day here in Oct and I hope to do more exploring and perhaps even bowl a game.


springs6 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I went into Earl and placed my order and got a little buzzer.


springs7 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs8 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs9 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I tried to take pictures while in line but they obviously didn’t turn out well.


springs10 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I didn’t pay attention to the chips I picked up and got the baked ones. ICK. I never am a fan of these.


eos1 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I got the tuna…one of the best tunas ever. I just love them from Earl and it had been a few years since I had one last.


eos2 by Jenseib, on Flickr


eos3 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I sat and enjoyed my lunch. I think I called Skip and then played on my phone a bit. I also listened to the people around me talking about their trips. It’s kind of fun to eavesdrop sometimes.


After lunch I had a mission. I was in search of maps. I had been collecting them prior to the cruise but I still needed some more and some for Disney Springs. (I know it sounds weird but yes I do use a LOT of maps for something so I pick them up every time I come to Disney).

springs11 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs12 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs13 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I headed over to World of Disney.


springs14 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs15 by Jenseib, on Flickr


The store has been totally changed around since the last time I was there…which was probably 2 years ago.


I made a few purchases for the family. I can’t remember what all I got, but I know I bought a package of different kinds of popcorn because Skip and Claire love popcorn. I also once again checked out the 2016 sweatshirts. I usually buy one each year if I can and this years selection was not wowing me. I liked the black one but in the end decided not to get it. I later bought it when I got home when the Disney store had 30% off and free shipping so I am glad I didn’t get it in the end.

I also was being careful on what I bought because I knew I had limited suitcase space. Mr. Tippy was only a carry on size. Coming down he was filled with gifts for my co-workers, so that pretty much emptied that, but I had bought several things already and my big suitcase was already at its limit coming down.


After purchases were made I went again in search of maps.


springs16 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs17 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I found them in this building. I don’t think I have ever gone in here before? I think it is newer and can’t remember what it was before.


springs18 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I believe it is now called the Marketplace co-op. it was kind of neat in there, but I didn’t spend much time in there.


After I took all the maps I needed I headed towards the bus stop.


springs19 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs20 by Jenseib, on Flickr


springs21 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Now you are probably wondering how I was going to get all those heavy stacks of maps home? I was smart…well actually I got this idea from one of my co-workers….before I left I went online and printed out a priority mail shipping slip. I also brought down a box folded flat and a small roll of packing tape. I was going to put all the maps and anything else I could fit in it and send it home. It worked perfectly and arrived about a day or 2 after I got home.


I got on the bus back to Sports and a friend had asked me what my new purse looked like so I took a picture for her.


dcl purse by Jenseib, on Flickr


I love this purse.


dcllogo by Jenseib, on Flickr


While traveling back to Sports, Michelle, the owner of our wonderful little company texted me. She was at Mk and wondered if I was there. I let her know I was coming soon and we could meet up later.


sports sign by Jenseib, on Flickr


Once back, I did have to run ALL the way back to the room to leave my purchases. There was no way I was lugging those around for the rest of the day.


Then back to the bus stop to wait for a MK bus.


sports bus stop by Jenseib, on Flickr


sports47 by Jenseib, on Flickr


sports48 by Jenseib, on Flickr


The bus stops now have a monitor that tells you when the next bus is coming. Sadly they are not in a great spot and hard to see from where I was standing. It was pretty accurate and if the bus was running later or earlier it would adjust the time.


sports bus sign by Jenseib, on Flickr


And here’s my bus!


sports bus by Jenseib, on Flickr


sports49 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Up next… Just enjoying Magic Kingdom on my own.

 

[jenseib]

Thanks for the details. I guess when I see motels, I immediately think of bad beds, not as clean, poor lighting, not a great shower, etc.

LOL. I think most Disney resorts have poor lighting actually. They tend to use those bulbs that need to be on for awhile to get brighter. Our rooms at Values have always been clean. You can get a bad room though anywhere if the Mousekeeper/housekeeper isn't doing their job correctly. (I actually see this more often on cruise ships believe it or not). Showers have always been great, and they now have the curved shower curtain rod so it gives you a bit more room to wiggle and dance while showering. LOL.
I would never push a Value on someone who is totally worried though. For some it doesn't work. One of my Dis friends stays at CBR every trip. She decided to try Pop for half their trip this year to save money. She ended up moving back to CBR after a few nights. She said it wasn't bad at Pop, but just wasn't for their family.

My husband would stay in a bug infested dive and not care. LOL. So I know he could care less what type of room we stay in, but I do notice when we have something nicer he does seem to appreciate it.

 

[mom2rtk]

Of course you know I'm loving the Earl of Sandwich shots! It may be early, but now I want one. Thanks.

Loving that bag!

Also loving that empty bus stop line!

I thought when you mentioned a bus stop "monitor" I thought you meant a person standing there to watch and make sure people behave!

I've mailed stuff home just like that before. I use the medium flat rate boxes and buy postage ahead of time, then drop them at the front desk to mail on my way out. It works like a charm!

 

[mom2rtk]

LOL. I think most Disney resorts have poor lighting actually. They tend to use those bulbs that need to be on for awhile to get brighter. Our rooms at Values have always been clean. You can get a bad room though anywhere if the Mousekeeper/housekeeper isn't doing their job correctly. (I actually see this more often on cruise ships believe it or not). Showers have always been great, and they now have the curved shower curtain rod so it gives you a bit more room to wiggle and dance while showering. LOL.
I would never push a Value on someone who is totally worried though. For some it doesn't work. One of my Dis friends stays at CBR every trip. She decided to try Pop for half their trip this year to save money. She ended up moving back to CBR after a few nights. She said it wasn't bad at Pop, but just wasn't for their family.

My husband would stay in a bug infested dive and not care. LOL. So I know he could care less what type of room we stay in, but I do notice when we have something nicer he does seem to appreciate it.

I agree with that. We've stayed at a value resort a number of times and never had issues with them not being clean. I love that the lower price means we can stay longer. Heck, we spend all day in the parks anyway. But I always felt like they were clean.

 

[Flossbolna]

We were going to travel again this summer together...but she went off and planned a European vacation with her family. LOL. I guess I would take that over a work trip too.

Yes, I am over the moon excited to see her and her family in July here in Germany!! So, your loss is my gain. Sorry!

 

[jenseib]

Of course you know I'm loving the Earl of Sandwich shots! It may be early, but now I want one. Thanks.

It's never too early for Earl of Sandwich. In July I fly out at 5:30 AM and I was thinking...gosh if Earl is open then (there is one at the airport I am flying out of) I would get one for breakfast....but I am pretty sure it doesn't open that early. Though I may go online and double check.

Loving that bag!

I love this bag. It is so cute and functional. I took it to a wedding last night. LOL.

Also loving that empty bus stop line!

I love empty bus stops....but it was late morning..so they usually are empty then.

I thought when you mentioned a bus stop "monitor" I thought you meant a person standing there to watch and make sure people behave!

That's funny. Some people need one though.

I've mailed stuff home just like that before. I use the medium flat rate boxes and buy postage ahead of time, then drop them at the front desk to mail on my way out. It works like a charm!

I don't know why I never thought of it before. Another box is going down with me in Oct. I will collect maps and send it off before I cruise. I just need to remember to tell Skip to expect to see the box so he grabs it and brings it in the house.

I agree with that. We've stayed at a value resort a number of times and never had issues with them not being clean. I love that the lower price means we can stay longer. Heck, we spend all day in the parks anyway. But I always felt like they were clean.

Yes, the low price is always nice....and if it equals more days then that is a total plus!

Yes, I am over the moon excited to see her and her family in July here in Germany!! So, your loss is my gain. Sorry!

You lucky bugger! I was going to try and talk her into doing both but I think they overlap....and in reality, I knew I would go for Europe over this work trip too. I actually have been invited to a couple of different work related trips this year, but I had to pick and choose because I can't do or afford them all and I have to keep my husband and daughter somewhat happy. When I told them about the summer work trip (which is to Jamaica!!!) my daughter got tears in her eyes. Once I explained the schedule I think she realized this is not going to be a fun and games trip.

 

[rndmr2]

Nice solo day so far. I haven't eaten at the Earl before but I really want to. It was on the plan for our trip in 2010 where we had the QS dining plan but hubby decided as we were getting off the boat that he wanted to try the Rainforest (OOP) instead.

I think AS Sports is my least fave too but I wouldn't ever rule out staying there if the price was right. My Fave Values are POP and AS Movies. I like the values for their price, definitely but I think they usually have good food courts too. We are never in the room and rarely have time to swim anyway.

 

[Timon]

It took basically hours for Brook to get to her car and then get it out (it was blocked) at the offsite parking area. I don’t remember which place it was but I have noted to myself to never use it.

Oh no! I didn't know that What exactly happened?? I would be so mad if it took us hours to get a car

Good thing you came with me, eh?

I have 3 bags and one is Mr. Tippy who falls over if you look at it cross-eyed.

LOL, Mr. Tippy sure did misbehave! But at least we still had fun with it

I had a new band for this part of the stay, but they somehow linked everything to the band from the Poly. I have no clue why as both were in my MDE and this one was for Sports.

I found out that trip as well that if you have a different band from the one you are issued with that particular resort stay (even if it's all linked and activated) that you must stop by the actual hotel and have it activated to open your room door PITA!

We said goodbye and I had a pang in my heart as Cass walked away. If this was a movie, I would have ran back to her and hugged and cried and we could spend another week together because I just got a text that that I won the lottery. But that didn’t happen, unfortunately.

OMG, that made me

It was tough saying good-bye to you.

I think it was doubly hard because I don't know when I will get to see you again

Now I was on my own. What was I going to do without Cass with me. Yes I had been with all the girls throughout most of the trip, but I had been with Cass since Day 1 and we really just gel together well.

We do gel

That doesn't happen often for me, that's why I was on the verge of

When I win that damn lottery, you are I are spending another week together in DL and then our families can join us for a second week

I liked the black one but in the end decided not to get it. I later bought it when I got home when the Disney store had 30% off and free shipping so I am glad I didn’t get it in the end.

Was it the one with the music notes all over it??? After Rob read my trip report saying that I had wanted it but decided against it because it was too expensive, he asked his parents to pick it up while they were in AZ for me for my birthday in March.

It's pretty comfy but my fave is still our Disneyland one

Glad your tuna sammy was good! I had Earl's a few times before you got here and it was delish!!!

Texting you while I was at the airport sucked! I wanted to be back in Disney with you

 

[jenseib]

Nice solo day so far. I haven't eaten at the Earl before but I really want to. It was on the plan for our trip in 2010 where we had the QS dining plan but hubby decided as we were getting off the boat that he wanted to try the Rainforest (OOP) instead

Something about those sandwiches are just so wonderful! Do try to get there if you can.

I think AS Sports is my least fave too but I wouldn't ever rule out staying there if the price was right. My Fave Values are POP and AS Movies. I like the values for their price, definitely but I think they usually have good food courts too. We are never in the room and rarely have time to swim anyway

I do think the Values have the best food courts...except AoA. I wasn't a fan of their menu, but I think some of it has changed.

Oh no! I didn't know that What exactly happened?? I would be so mad if it took us hours to get a car

Good thing you came with me, eh?

It took forever to get a shuttle over to start and then when she got there her car was blocked in and they seemed to not know how to unblock it or something like that. She ended up talking to the owner who was very apologetic and gave her a voucher or something for a free parking next time. I want to say I was at Disney Springs before she was even leaving.

LOL, Mr. Tippy sure did misbehave! But at least we still had fun with it

There is nothing more irritating when traveling than having a Mr. Tippy. LOL. I have been upgrading our luggage supply at home and I think right now we should have a good set for eeach of us for the most part. The most important is that Claire and I each have good rolling, non-falling over luggage. LOL. The big test will be in Oct.

I found out that trip as well that if you have a different band from the one you are issued with that particular resort stay (even if it's all linked and activated) that you must stop by the actual hotel and have it activated to open your room door PITA!

That makes sense. I still think this whole text about room being ready is kind of dumb. You really need to stop at the desk anyways. Especially if you have a dining plan linked. I have heard some have had no issues. but I would say 90% of the people I know do have issues with the dining plan working if they don't stop at the desk first.

OMG, that made me

It was tough saying good-bye to you.

I think it was doubly hard because I don't know when I will get to see you again

I hate goodbyes!!! We WILL see each other again and it will be like no time has gone by. Too bad you didn't live in Windsor. LOL. That's only about an hours drive. Think Rob will move?

We do gel

That doesn't happen often for me, that's why I was on the verge of

When I win that damn lottery, you are I are spending another week together in DL and then our families can join us for a second week

Well I like that plan!

Was it the one with the music notes all over it??? After Rob read my trip report saying that I had wanted it but decided against it because it was too expensive, he asked his parents to pick it up while they were in AZ for me for my birthday in March.

Yes, the one you have messaged me before I arrive. I kept debating and just decided not to spend more money in the end. Then I regretted it when I got home and when I saw it on sale plus free shipping, I snatched it up. I also got that DCL hard sided rolling carry on sized bag with that sale (for Claire). What it came down to was basically paying for the suitcase (which of course because it is DCL it is high dollar) and making the sweatshirt free.

It's pretty comfy but my fave is still our Disneyland one

I love that Sweatshirt the best. I love the look and it is comfy. I wish they would bring back that design style again....maybe in different colors if they want to change it up. But it is a sharp looking sweatshirt.

Glad your tuna sammy was good! I had Earl's a few times before you got here and it was delish!!!

I love Earl!!!

Texting you while I was at the airport sucked! I wanted to be back in Disney with you

I was shocked how you went shopping and could fit stuff in your suitcase that was already pretty full. LOL.
It was weird being totally along. And the parks were crowded. If I had someone to wait in line with me, I probably would have rode more.

 

[jenseib]

After my fairly short bus ride I was at the Magic Kingdom. Now I had been here already earlier in the trip, but this time I was on my own and could do what I wanted.


mk1 by Jenseib, on Flickr


My band worked perfectly fine and soon I was walking down Main Street USA.


balloon shot by Jenseib, on Flickr


castle shot by Jenseib, on Flickr


Honestly, for me, I don’t even have to do much while in MK…just being there makes me happy.


mk2 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk3 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I messaged Michelle that I had arrived and just went on my merry way taking pictures and enjoying myself.


mk4 by Jenseib, on Flickr


A show was going on on the castle stage and I took a few distance shots of it.


mk5 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk6 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk7 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk8 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I really like this next picture I took.


mk9 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk10 by Jenseib, on Flickr


And it’s not a castle picture without a crane in it. I think right before I had arrived the week before Michelle had posted a picture online that had the crane actually gone for like 1 day.


mk11 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk12 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Still construction going on.


mk13 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I think I went and checked out the Mine Train wait and it was much longer than I was willing to wait for.


I passed by the Fairy Godmother and took a quick shot.


mk14 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk15 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Now I think while on the bus I had gone in and made some fastpasses. Since I couldn’t get my tickets till my arrival to WDW, I could not make FP+ ahead of time. Then when I made them for my earlier park days I did them with friends on the fly. I never thought ahead to make more because honestly I wasn’t sure what I would be doing.

I no longer remember what I made them for, but just whatever was left open and used them here and there.


I walked around New Fantasyland and took pictures.


mk16 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk17 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk18 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk19 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I peaked in some stores and browsed and kept on my way.


mk20 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I debated on the Little Mermaid ride but I don’t think I could find out how long the line was and kept going.


mk21 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk22 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I decided it was time for a snack and I went with a pretzel.


mk23 by Jenseib, on Flickr


And it was getting close to the parade time and I really wanted to see it once again so I found a nice spot and plopped down and ate my pretzel.


After a bit the pre-parade band came by.


mk24 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk25 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk26 by Jenseib, on Flickr


And then another, and I think this one was playing Uptown Funk but I could't get my phone out to record fast enough.


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While sitting there a mom and daughter came by looking for a spot and I had enough room to fit them in and they said dad was coming too and I said no problem. Daughter could even stand in front of me if needed. We were right next to a snack stand and our taped off area angled right into the stand. We had just enough room for us.

Then some other family comes along and tries to stand directly in front of the stand. The CMs would tell them to move every so often and they would come right back. I think some of the parade CM’s just didn’t feel like dealing with them and let it go. It annoyed me and they kept trying to squish in and I would squish back if needed.


This is the family…See the pole? You aren’t supposed to be anywhere past it as the snack stand was there…that lady with her back to us is actually trying to climb over some of the family sitting there.


parade1 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Oh well…I am not going to worry about it…the parade is about to start!!!!



Up next….Fantasy of Festival

 

[cruisehopeful]

I got on the bus back to Sports and a friend had asked me what my new purse looked like so I took a picture for her.

I love the new designs. I was so tempted to buy one on my recent cruise, but I already have a DCL Dooney and I rarely use it, so I passed. I just kept telling myself that if I didn't buy one, I'd be that much closer to another cruise. I'm happy to live vicariously through yours.

I decided it was time for a snack and I went with a pretzel.

Those are so good. I could take a bite out of the picture.

 

[Timon]

I want to say I was at Disney Springs before she was even leaving.

Wow! Wow!!! I refuse to take any of those free shuttles anymore! I will gladly pay $10-$20 on a taxi and not wait for an hour or more and not arrive at a rental place (or elsewhere) when everyone else does Crappy about being blocked in though!! I know who she used and I won't be recommending them ever

That makes sense. I still think this whole text about room being ready is kind of dumb. You really need to stop at the desk anyways. Especially if you have a dining plan linked. I have heard some have had no issues. but I would say 90% of the people I know do have issues with the dining plan working if they don't stop at the desk first.

I guess that's why it's important to use the band they send you. Makes sense because they don't know which band you will be using and some people have dozens of bands! We peons up North don't even get our bands shipped anyway so we always have to check-in first

I hate goodbyes!!! We WILL see each other again and it will be like no time has gone by. Too bad you didn't live in Windsor. LOL. That's only about an hours drive. Think Rob will move?

Windsor? HA! Ummm no thanks, even if Rob said yes

I was shocked how you went shopping and could fit stuff in your suitcase that was already pretty full. LOL.
It was weird being totally along. And the parks were crowded. If I had someone to wait in line with me, I probably would have rode more.

I had an almost empty carry-on and stuffed it all in there

It looks like you did almost the same as me when I was all by my lonesome at MK, strolled around, enjoyed the atmosphere, took some photos and ate

Honestly though, when I am alone, I enjoy the non-park stuff more, checking out the resorts, Disney Springs, etc. Parks are awesome but I find it very sad to do the rides alone

I didn't even notice that they changed the name of the shop! Wasn't it called Pooh's Thoughtful Shop before?

Then some other family comes along and tries to stand directly in front of the stand.

It's one of the reasons why I hate parades!! There's always that one family, or sometimes, many, many families who think they rules don't apply to them or that they feel entitled to a great spot at the very last minute! HATE HATE HATE that

 

[jenseib]

I love the new designs. I was so tempted to buy one on my recent cruise, but I already have a DCL Dooney and I rarely use it, so I passed. I just kept telling myself that if I didn't buy one, I'd be that much closer to another cruise. I'm happy to live vicariously through yours.

I have several Dooneys now. I just can't get enough. LOL. I switch them out. of course when I bought the first big one I justified the price with the quality and how long it will last. haha.

Those are so good. I could take a bite out of the picture.

It was nice not to share it too. Whenever we get one with Claire we share and she is a bit greedy.

Wow! Wow!!! I refuse to take any of those free shuttles anymore! I will gladly pay $10-$20 on a taxi and not wait for an hour or more and not arrive at a rental place (or elsewhere) when everyone else does Crappy about being blocked in though!! I know who she used and I won't be recommending them ever

I agree. For some things putting out that 10 -20 is worth it to make life easier. I used to be all about the cheapest this or that, but over time I have found that sometimes paying a little more is worth less hassle and you have more time to enjoy the things you really want.

I guess that's why it's important to use the band they send you. Makes sense because they don't know which band you will be using and some people have dozens of bands! We peons up North don't even get our bands shipped anyway so we always have to check-in first

It was so confusing as I had 2 bands sent and I used the right one for the Poly and packed it away and had the Sports one out for this leg, but of course the Sports one didn't work. I really think someone at tech messed it up. I had called a while back as I was having issues in the account and she fixed it. She mentioned only needed one band and I said no, I want 2 and I already had it customized. I am wondering if she didn't care what I said and tied them all to the Poly band anyways.

Windsor? HA! Ummm no thanks, even if Rob said yes

I don't blame you one bit on that one. LOL.

I had an almost empty carry-on and stuffed it all in there

Aha! Yeah I have a hard time having anything empty. I am already trying to think of how to pack light for Oct and I just know I won't. My goal is for Claire and I to each have our carryons, and then we each will have a big bag and I think I will do another carryon sized checked. I am Hoping that will cover us all. I think mom plans to bring 2 checked as well ,but she is famous for over packing and often looks to me to put stuff in. LOL.

It looks like you did almost the same as me when I was all by my lonesome at MK, strolled around, enjoyed the atmosphere, took some photos and ate

It's nice to just roam and not have a real plan.

It's one of the reasons why I hate parades!! There's always that one family, or sometimes, many, many families who think they rules don't apply to them or that they feel entitled to a great spot at the very last minute! HATE HATE HATE that

I love parades but those last minute families drive me insane. I have been burned a few times...like when a lady asked if her kids could sit next to Claire and then she hauled her big butt up and pushed Claire back. I was not happy that time. Now I say something if they are in the way. Before I tried to keep the peace.

 

[jenseib]

The parade arrives…..I love this parade….and I start taking pictures with my point and shoot. 2 bad things….1 is…. after a couple of shots my battery on my camera dies, so I had to dig in my purse for the replacement all the while trying to take some with my phone with the other hand. And then… the sun was behind the parade and it really made it hard to get pictures and see.

But I still enjoyed it and it was still amazing.

I will let the pictures talk now.


mk27 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade2 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk28 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk29 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk30 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk31 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade3 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade4 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade5 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade6 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Some one-handed video. LOL.


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parade7 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk33 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk32 by Jenseib, on Flickr


This picture kind of cracks me up as it looks like she is holding up the bird house.


mk34 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade8 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk35 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk36 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade9 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk37 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade10 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade11 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk38 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk39 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk40 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk41 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk42 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk43 by Jenseib, on Flickr


And the dragon was blowing fire!!!!!


parade12 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk44 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade13 by Jenseib, on Flickr


parade14 by Jenseib, on Flickr


He seemed to be blowing it a lot more often this year that I had seen him doing 2 year ago.


parade15 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk45 by Jenseib, on Flickr



Continued….

 

[jenseib]

mk46 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk47 by Jenseib, on Flickr


And some video of him blowing.


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mk48 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk49 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk50 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk51 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk52 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk53 by Jenseib, on Flickr


I really scored on the close ups of characters this time.


mk54 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk55 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk56 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk57 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk58 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk59 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk60 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk61 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Mega close up! LOL


mk62 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk63 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk64 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk65 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk66 by Jenseib, on Flickr


This is such a fantastic parade. It is most definitely my favorite now, especially since my 2 other favorites are gone…Spectro-magic and Jamin’ Jungle.


During the parade, Michelle had been messaging me. She was now heading up to the Starbucks on Main Street, so I headed that way.


I laughed when I passed this new area…and all the people taking naps.


naptime by Jenseib, on Flickr


I walked up Main Street and I was looking at my phone, reading messages and emails….and Michelle messages me and says…”You just walked past”. LOL. Oops. I wasn’t even paying attention. So I turned around and joined her in line and I got a strawberry Frappuccino and she got what she wanted.


starbucks by Jenseib, on Flickr


She only had a little bit of time now as she had to meet her husband and son for a dinner reservation at Boma, so we just walked to the front and chatted. It was nice to spend a little extra time with her. Sadly it was time for her to go and also for me….as I also had a dinner reservation to get to.


I walked back into New Fantasyland and checked in for my reservation.


mk67 by Jenseib, on Flickr


Be Our Guest. Yes, I know this is still the “hot” place to get, and I also know a lot of people don’t think the food is all that great. I am not one of those people. This seriously is one of my favorite food spots. I really have never had a bad meal here…and let’s face it, the cupcakes are to die for. I have like 3 or 4 favorites there and it’s hard to decide which to get. Maybe someday they will get smart and open up a stand to sell just the cupcakes.


When I checked in, they asked me my phone number for a text. They then told me to go across the bridge and wait for my text. They said someone would direct me where to go.


So I did just that. The CM there asked if I got my text and I said no, they just told me to come here and wait and she said ok.

I sat down and waited.


mk68 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk69 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk70 by Jenseib, on Flickr


mk71 by Jenseib, on Flickr


While I sat there, several people would come through the gates and say they got their text and then a CM would come out and take them to their table. After a bit I asked the CM who was there outside why they had told me to come directly across the bridge if they weren’t ready for me yet and she said they probably did since I was just a solo dinner and I wouldn’t be in the way sitting up here. OK, that works.



Up next… My Dinner!