S
SpottyDog
Guest
Stripes On Tour
Previously on Spottys holiday
1.The night before
2.The Journey
3.Me first full day
4.Thered better not be any queues
5.We've time fer a coffee
6.Yesterday, we went to EPCOT
7.MGM
8.Wet n Wild and Bomas
9.Kennedy
10.Chef Mickeys;Gatorland;Boggy Creek Airboats;Disney Quest
11.Clearwater Beach via Busch Gardens
12.Clearwater; A Dolphin Encounter
13.Goodbye,Clearwater
14. Busch and back home
Another County, another pool and yet another beer- good here, init?
I really enjoyed Clearwater but the wellin-up feelin I got as we drove back through them gates said it all.
We left the Gulf Coast around 8.30 and made our way back to Busch without incident (well, I shouted at V twice for not reading the map fast enough, but thats normal) and we were parked and at the gate for 9.30 openin.
Kumba was still off and we went straight for Rhino Rally. The water section was still down but we did the dry rally as we havent done this ride before. We thought it was good, though short with a section missed out. The driver was very good, informative and funny. We hoped theyd get the water problem sorted before the day was out and headed for the water rides as it was hot already.
As we hadnt had breakfast we had our usual early lunch on the way chicken strips and fries for me, V and Gaz and strips/corn dog combo for me little girl. Shed wanted to try one but wont be getting one again! She said the corn dog was ok but it felt like eatin a doughnut with a sausage in the middle.
Fed and watered we went on Congo River Rapids first as there was no queue at all. V declined to join us, as shes nervous of owt that goes round and round and has the merest hint of a drop. She nervously enjoys the Rapids at AK but has never done this one, declaring that the drops and twists look too fierce for her.
Anyways, we got hit by the water cannons early on but didnt get too wet, just nicely cooled. There was still no queue when we got off and all wanted to go again. We coaxed V on this time and she loved it. We got a little wetter but V was ok and wanted another go so we stayed on. We rode another three times, getting wetter each time which added to the fun. Boy, it was hot!
We squelched our way to the log flume and V sat on a bench as the Rapids are the extent of her thrill ride capabilities. Me and J sat at the back with the boy takin up the pilot position forad. When the log dropped into the water off the conveyor belt it sank so deep at the back that the boy was up in the air , like one of them cartoon capers, and we werent makin contact with the next belt to pull us into position, so we just sat there me and J down one end and The Boy up the other. Everyone seemed to think it was very funny and I had to tell The Bairn to lean forward as it was clearly her weight that was weighin us down. We got the balance right in the end and finished the circuit eventually learnin to lean forward to bring the log into contact with the belts as required.
Time for Tidal Wave and, as I was already soaked ,I went on with the kids, who love this ride to bits. I enjoy the end drop but normally miss this out as the windin river ride bit is boringly tedious after the first time. We had a good crew , mainly Brit blokes and the banter was good as we meandered our way round the river. Coz it was mostly blokes, and the biggest of us all seemed to be on the right hand side, the boat had an interesting tilt to it as it sailed along. As we rounded the bend at the top of the slide the boat dipped to the right with the weight and we shipped in a few gallons which was fun. The American lads behind us (we were front row) were complainin about their shoes getting wet it was their first time.
They neednt have worried. We hit the water at the bottom so hard everyone, front to back, got soaked. The double-whammy was the way we dipped down at the front coz of the higher weight (not just me little girl, the other blokes as well) meant we went under as we hit the backflow of the water and the first two rows (includin them poor lads shoes again) took it in waist high how we howled with laughter it was one of them you had to be there moments. Now, thats what I call a wet ride!
We were so wet I stood on the bridge with the kids and Id thoroughly recommend that experience too, if yer already soaked or want a refreshin shower.
Time for free beer, I reckoned, so we went to Hospitality and found a seat in the blazin sun to dry out. V found a new drink- Doc Ottiss alcoholic lemon and she was well pleased.
Split-up time now as me and Gaz were doin Gwazi next, so V and Julie made their way to look for the Koalas. There was only a train full ahead of us, so we had choice of cars and chose the back. Gaz loves this ride coz its got a floor and doesnt go upside down. Coz of me physique, the bar doesnt come down on me legs, like its meant to do, but hovers above me beer supply. This means I spend as much time out of me seat as in it and gives the ride a Tower of Terror feel most of the way round. We could have gone round again but Gaz said he didnt want to yet as he felt a little dizzy. Dizzy? (I get to find out why and solve a little coaster problem later in the holiday but cant tell yer just yet.) He asked if we could do it again before we left though as he really enjoyed it. Course we can, Son. Lets do Montu then.
The Boy wasnt havin any of it but would sit and watch for me triumphant return if I liked? Hes still scared of feet danglers though he has said hell have a go on Hulk as his mates have confirmed that that one is dead smooth and dead good and dead everything, like. Id told him that but, for some reason, he doesnt take much notice of my recommendations any more.
This was another walk on and another choice of rows for the next beast. Now those that know me know that its the thrill of survivin these feet dangly monsters that gives uz the buzz. When I did this on Sunday, I had wondered if I was at the end of me coaster bravin days, coz Id havent been so terrified since me very first upside down ride last year. All I could think of all the way round and round and upside down was what if this belt comes loose?
Well, Coaster God must have realised I was close to retiring coz I chose, by accident, the fat boys seat in the middle of row 5. Not only does it have a slightly wider seat, which saves a lads proportions bein squeezed, but it had TWO clicky belts. I was so relieved, I enjoyed the ride again. Surely, they wouldnt both come open! So I relaxed and watched me feet go over the outside loop. Trouble is, do I need the fat boys chair all the time now?
We met V at the skyline station as planned. Id taken the precaution of showin Julie the place on the map and told her to get her Mam there for 2.15 or ask an adult to take them there if she was lost. We planned to take the Chairlift to Timbuktoo (as yer do) coz its Vs sort of ride and would give me some nice video footage of the park. We were near the front of the line when they had to close it for high winds, which was shame. Oh, and V and J hadnt seen the Koalas as theyre not at Busch anymore, which was another shame.
We walked briskly (its me only pace V loves it so!) to Timbuktoo for the dolphin show and just caught the end of the Mime artist so funny. Julie was thrilled theyd beefed up Clyde the sea lions part and it was a highlight of her day.
The plan was to do the whole Rhino Rally on the way back but the water section was still out of commission, so that was a third shame.
It was so hot now it was tiring just walkin, even at a leisurely(ish) pace, so we decided it was nearly home time. Me and Gaz went for our second Gwazi ride while the girls went to say tarra to the Meerkats. It was another walk on and me and The Boy laughed our way round again. He was enjoyin the ride all the more for one of them little attention things that CMs can do that just make you enjoy the experience all the more.
Now this probably wont come over right but Im gonna add it into me report for our own reminder of one of them only in Florida special moments that makes us want to come back time after time.
For them that dont know it, Gwazi is a wooden coaster in the traditional fairground style. You have a seat belt and a pull down lap bar and theres a grab handle in front for them that need to hang on. On our first ride this mornin, as the CM came up the car, doin his safety checks, our Gaz was sittin forward holdin onto the grab handles- as yer do ready for the off. The CM stopped ; looked at him and said in a strong drawly accent
Youll not be holdin that there bar, Boy. Them theres for little girls.
The Boy giggled at the idea and attention and sat back. He did grab at the handle a couple of times on the way round as we raced and twisted but made sure he has his arms high in the air as we re-entered the station.
What made it more special was when we came back to ride again two hours later the CM didnt make any comment this time but just looked straight at Gaz as the train passed him, pointed at the grab handles and shook his head and finger in a knowing way and smiled. His face was a picture to be recognised and given such a friendly gesture by a real CM! Its these special moments when CMs do more than their job that make for special days and so special memories.
We met the girls outside The Myombe Reserve and walked our last bit of the park the Gorillas. Like me Hippo, this glass screened area offers excellent views of the Gorillas in as near a natural habitat as they can have in captivity.
We left Busch around 4 and were approachin WDW just before 5. Wed been comparing notes and thoughts on Clearwater on the way and agreed it had been lovely and wed been pleased with the choice of hotel and its location thanks again Keith and Carol.
Yes wed do that again.
Then our first Disney landmark came up on the left the Mickey Ears electricity pylon just before you turn off the I4.
We got a little excited!
Off the I4 and onto the WDW approach road, round the corner and there they are! the Walt Disney World Gates.
I swear I was more excited drivin back inside them gates than I was when we got here 10 days ago.
Clearwater? Nice place, but its not home.
The kids had enjoyed the hotel pool and the dolphin trip but are glad to be back to their All Stars pool. Theyre waitin for Bryn and Carys to come any time now. They (Gaz and Julie) get on well together (for brother and sister anyway) but I think theyre looking forward to havin a little brother and sister each to look after.
So well sit here with the odd Bud waitin for Astrid to arrive. Vs gone to do the laundry and Im sittin watchin the kids and savin a table for us to sit round and catch up on all the gossip once Astrid gets here.
Tough job but someones got to do it.
Previously on Spottys holiday
1.The night before
2.The Journey
3.Me first full day
4.Thered better not be any queues
5.We've time fer a coffee
6.Yesterday, we went to EPCOT
7.MGM
8.Wet n Wild and Bomas
9.Kennedy
10.Chef Mickeys;Gatorland;Boggy Creek Airboats;Disney Quest
11.Clearwater Beach via Busch Gardens
12.Clearwater; A Dolphin Encounter
13.Goodbye,Clearwater
14. Busch and back home
Another County, another pool and yet another beer- good here, init?
I really enjoyed Clearwater but the wellin-up feelin I got as we drove back through them gates said it all.
We left the Gulf Coast around 8.30 and made our way back to Busch without incident (well, I shouted at V twice for not reading the map fast enough, but thats normal) and we were parked and at the gate for 9.30 openin.
Kumba was still off and we went straight for Rhino Rally. The water section was still down but we did the dry rally as we havent done this ride before. We thought it was good, though short with a section missed out. The driver was very good, informative and funny. We hoped theyd get the water problem sorted before the day was out and headed for the water rides as it was hot already.
As we hadnt had breakfast we had our usual early lunch on the way chicken strips and fries for me, V and Gaz and strips/corn dog combo for me little girl. Shed wanted to try one but wont be getting one again! She said the corn dog was ok but it felt like eatin a doughnut with a sausage in the middle.
Fed and watered we went on Congo River Rapids first as there was no queue at all. V declined to join us, as shes nervous of owt that goes round and round and has the merest hint of a drop. She nervously enjoys the Rapids at AK but has never done this one, declaring that the drops and twists look too fierce for her.
Anyways, we got hit by the water cannons early on but didnt get too wet, just nicely cooled. There was still no queue when we got off and all wanted to go again. We coaxed V on this time and she loved it. We got a little wetter but V was ok and wanted another go so we stayed on. We rode another three times, getting wetter each time which added to the fun. Boy, it was hot!
We squelched our way to the log flume and V sat on a bench as the Rapids are the extent of her thrill ride capabilities. Me and J sat at the back with the boy takin up the pilot position forad. When the log dropped into the water off the conveyor belt it sank so deep at the back that the boy was up in the air , like one of them cartoon capers, and we werent makin contact with the next belt to pull us into position, so we just sat there me and J down one end and The Boy up the other. Everyone seemed to think it was very funny and I had to tell The Bairn to lean forward as it was clearly her weight that was weighin us down. We got the balance right in the end and finished the circuit eventually learnin to lean forward to bring the log into contact with the belts as required.
Time for Tidal Wave and, as I was already soaked ,I went on with the kids, who love this ride to bits. I enjoy the end drop but normally miss this out as the windin river ride bit is boringly tedious after the first time. We had a good crew , mainly Brit blokes and the banter was good as we meandered our way round the river. Coz it was mostly blokes, and the biggest of us all seemed to be on the right hand side, the boat had an interesting tilt to it as it sailed along. As we rounded the bend at the top of the slide the boat dipped to the right with the weight and we shipped in a few gallons which was fun. The American lads behind us (we were front row) were complainin about their shoes getting wet it was their first time.
They neednt have worried. We hit the water at the bottom so hard everyone, front to back, got soaked. The double-whammy was the way we dipped down at the front coz of the higher weight (not just me little girl, the other blokes as well) meant we went under as we hit the backflow of the water and the first two rows (includin them poor lads shoes again) took it in waist high how we howled with laughter it was one of them you had to be there moments. Now, thats what I call a wet ride!
We were so wet I stood on the bridge with the kids and Id thoroughly recommend that experience too, if yer already soaked or want a refreshin shower.
Time for free beer, I reckoned, so we went to Hospitality and found a seat in the blazin sun to dry out. V found a new drink- Doc Ottiss alcoholic lemon and she was well pleased.
Split-up time now as me and Gaz were doin Gwazi next, so V and Julie made their way to look for the Koalas. There was only a train full ahead of us, so we had choice of cars and chose the back. Gaz loves this ride coz its got a floor and doesnt go upside down. Coz of me physique, the bar doesnt come down on me legs, like its meant to do, but hovers above me beer supply. This means I spend as much time out of me seat as in it and gives the ride a Tower of Terror feel most of the way round. We could have gone round again but Gaz said he didnt want to yet as he felt a little dizzy. Dizzy? (I get to find out why and solve a little coaster problem later in the holiday but cant tell yer just yet.) He asked if we could do it again before we left though as he really enjoyed it. Course we can, Son. Lets do Montu then.
The Boy wasnt havin any of it but would sit and watch for me triumphant return if I liked? Hes still scared of feet danglers though he has said hell have a go on Hulk as his mates have confirmed that that one is dead smooth and dead good and dead everything, like. Id told him that but, for some reason, he doesnt take much notice of my recommendations any more.
This was another walk on and another choice of rows for the next beast. Now those that know me know that its the thrill of survivin these feet dangly monsters that gives uz the buzz. When I did this on Sunday, I had wondered if I was at the end of me coaster bravin days, coz Id havent been so terrified since me very first upside down ride last year. All I could think of all the way round and round and upside down was what if this belt comes loose?
Well, Coaster God must have realised I was close to retiring coz I chose, by accident, the fat boys seat in the middle of row 5. Not only does it have a slightly wider seat, which saves a lads proportions bein squeezed, but it had TWO clicky belts. I was so relieved, I enjoyed the ride again. Surely, they wouldnt both come open! So I relaxed and watched me feet go over the outside loop. Trouble is, do I need the fat boys chair all the time now?
We met V at the skyline station as planned. Id taken the precaution of showin Julie the place on the map and told her to get her Mam there for 2.15 or ask an adult to take them there if she was lost. We planned to take the Chairlift to Timbuktoo (as yer do) coz its Vs sort of ride and would give me some nice video footage of the park. We were near the front of the line when they had to close it for high winds, which was shame. Oh, and V and J hadnt seen the Koalas as theyre not at Busch anymore, which was another shame.
We walked briskly (its me only pace V loves it so!) to Timbuktoo for the dolphin show and just caught the end of the Mime artist so funny. Julie was thrilled theyd beefed up Clyde the sea lions part and it was a highlight of her day.
The plan was to do the whole Rhino Rally on the way back but the water section was still out of commission, so that was a third shame.
It was so hot now it was tiring just walkin, even at a leisurely(ish) pace, so we decided it was nearly home time. Me and Gaz went for our second Gwazi ride while the girls went to say tarra to the Meerkats. It was another walk on and me and The Boy laughed our way round again. He was enjoyin the ride all the more for one of them little attention things that CMs can do that just make you enjoy the experience all the more.
Now this probably wont come over right but Im gonna add it into me report for our own reminder of one of them only in Florida special moments that makes us want to come back time after time.
For them that dont know it, Gwazi is a wooden coaster in the traditional fairground style. You have a seat belt and a pull down lap bar and theres a grab handle in front for them that need to hang on. On our first ride this mornin, as the CM came up the car, doin his safety checks, our Gaz was sittin forward holdin onto the grab handles- as yer do ready for the off. The CM stopped ; looked at him and said in a strong drawly accent
Youll not be holdin that there bar, Boy. Them theres for little girls.
The Boy giggled at the idea and attention and sat back. He did grab at the handle a couple of times on the way round as we raced and twisted but made sure he has his arms high in the air as we re-entered the station.
What made it more special was when we came back to ride again two hours later the CM didnt make any comment this time but just looked straight at Gaz as the train passed him, pointed at the grab handles and shook his head and finger in a knowing way and smiled. His face was a picture to be recognised and given such a friendly gesture by a real CM! Its these special moments when CMs do more than their job that make for special days and so special memories.
We met the girls outside The Myombe Reserve and walked our last bit of the park the Gorillas. Like me Hippo, this glass screened area offers excellent views of the Gorillas in as near a natural habitat as they can have in captivity.
We left Busch around 4 and were approachin WDW just before 5. Wed been comparing notes and thoughts on Clearwater on the way and agreed it had been lovely and wed been pleased with the choice of hotel and its location thanks again Keith and Carol.
Yes wed do that again.
Then our first Disney landmark came up on the left the Mickey Ears electricity pylon just before you turn off the I4.
We got a little excited!
Off the I4 and onto the WDW approach road, round the corner and there they are! the Walt Disney World Gates.
I swear I was more excited drivin back inside them gates than I was when we got here 10 days ago.
Clearwater? Nice place, but its not home.
The kids had enjoyed the hotel pool and the dolphin trip but are glad to be back to their All Stars pool. Theyre waitin for Bryn and Carys to come any time now. They (Gaz and Julie) get on well together (for brother and sister anyway) but I think theyre looking forward to havin a little brother and sister each to look after.
So well sit here with the odd Bud waitin for Astrid to arrive. Vs gone to do the laundry and Im sittin watchin the kids and savin a table for us to sit round and catch up on all the gossip once Astrid gets here.
Tough job but someones got to do it.
