The ABC’s of a Springtime Saunter-J is for: Jungle Cruise; A Deep, Deep, Deep Dive (7/18)

[Steppesister]

E is for: Everyday Is Better When It Begins with a Safari!!
April 24, 2026- Pt. 1​

Since I posted my last chapter, a lot of life has happened. My knee surgery was successful as far as I can tell, but it may also be a bit too premature to really know. I am able to go up and down stairs with alternating legs (as opposed to one foot up or down followed by the other to the same stair) and the swelling is down, as are the sutures out. Glad to have that behind me. In fact, while it’s never good to get laid off, it has opened up the time and opportunity to get a lot of healthcare maintenance done that I’ve been procrastinating on, like eye exams, mammo, and C-scope. As an NP, I’m really encouraging you to get those preventative screenings done- they do save lives.

I started my new job at a rural health clinic which is federally subsidized as a rural clinic. A good number of our patients are farmers (I’ve learned it’s time for first wheat harvest) and I’d guess the vast majority have not ever traveled further than the next 1 or 2 counties over. But here are the uber cool things about my clinic that I LOVE:

• There are no loud staff tossing F-bombs loud enough for patients to hear nor any inter-employee drama grossness (that I can tell so far).
• There is a Psych NP on-site and one of our NPs does almost all of our Peds care.
• We are attached to a Denal Clinic on-site, so our patient population has amazing access to good dental care.
• We also have a licensed Social Worker and a Certified Community Health Worker in office during all business hours. How cool is that?! Diabetes Education- check!; assistance with insurance- check!; prescription help- check!
• It’s a growing business and there are patients a-plenty!
• Pay is better than I was making before.
• Oh sure, the 1-hour each way commute sucks but goes way faster with a good audiobook.

Ok, enough drivel on the life-front end of things, let’s get on with the content you are all here for!

Now, imagine if you will… 5 days of glorious “Bubble Time” lies ahead and you wake up with your favorite park on tap. You have a new AP burning a hole in your pocket and you are ready to get moving after a fully wonderful, excellent night’s rest. Was I worried about my fresh layoff? No way, Jose! I had scored a new job within a week and was already collecting unemployment and had a smashing banger of a vacation after this. Life was shining down on me in so many amazing ways!

I contemplated all of that as I sat with my free pastry that Caroline had snagged from the Delta Lounge on her way down and some notoriously gross coffee from the Food Court. I know they can make a latte now, but for the most part, I went without bougie coffee the whole trip. No, really it IS me, and I have not been abducted or replaced. The opportunities for better, or even good, espresso just didn’t present themselves.

​

We did not hurry; there was no rush whatsoever that morning. We allowed life to be lived at a vacation-style pace rather than a Rope Drop Rush, probably due to both the fact that we have APs and can go a bit more often and that we had LLs to help do the things we most wanted to that day. I guess it goes without saying that, and I can only speak for myself, I can’t go at the pace I used to even just a few years ago. I don’t need to nor do I want to. The atmosphere of AK alone, the music, the landscaping, the animals, the theming, keep me more than entertained and fill my soul with refreshment. I don’t need to run from attraction to attraction riding them over and over anymore.

Speaking of the atmosphere and music: Here is a bit of ambiance to play while you enjoy a photographical journey through Harambe while you read along.

​

We stepped into Animal Kingdom around 9:40. Remember, we were moving over to the Swan that night, so needed to pack up and also get our bags to Luggage Services before we took the bus to the park.

As we made our way through the entrance and on into The Oasis, I lamented that I didn’t see any sign of DeVine. Caroline mentioned that she seemed to recall that she regales herself a bit more elegantly during the Flower and Garden Festival. I suggested we circle back again to see if we could find her before moving on. We had a LL pretty soon, but we were not having any worry about missing that and had plenty of time to look for a few off-the-beaten-path things that make this park so perfect.

(Liking the kora music?)

Back near the area over by the stroller and WC rentals is a little inlet that leads to some backstage areas. Just as we got there, we saw a character just finishing up (I don’t remember who) and another handler came into view from the gate behind- it HAD to be DeVine, I just knew it!

​

It was!! And sure enough, she was all decked out in her flowery finest! She was as lovely as ever and it’s always a treat to see her gliding along in that signature elegance she embodies. DeVine, you truly are!

Mission accomplished, it was time to move on to catch our Safari. Harambe makes me smile like a hoarder at a garage sale. We didn’t really linger as we sailed through the queue to our walk-on adventure.

Loads of large mammals were out lounging and munching in the sun and our feathered friends made use of the morning to preen and soak up the rays.

​

Even the baobob trees, though faux they may be, stood tall and proud. Experience says that if you want the best views of the baobob, sit on the right side of the truck. IYKYK, right @buzzrelly

​

I don’t know if this is true or not, and maybe I’m just seeing things, but I swear the Imagineers have purposely made this rock as you get closer to the elephant enclosures to look LIKE an elephant! Am I the only one who sees this?! An elephant walking away from you? Sloped back with one hind leg a bit further back as if it’s walking?

​

A successful photographic hunt behind us, it was time to explore the Gorilla Falls Trail. Looooove me some AK trails. I’ve noticed them getting busier lately, which selfishly makes me a bit sad. They used to be my quiet AK hidey-hole. Nevertheless, we did find a few things, both new to the both of us and good old stand-by’s.

Did you know you can pull out the drawers in the Naked Mole Rat and reptile/bug house?! We did, and it revealed several species of wonderful specimens of creepy crawlies. There are quite a few drawers and I’ll wager that any littles (or geeks like me) would love to explore more in there. Honestly, in the past I’ve sort of just breezed on through without paying much attention. Mostly because naked mole rats are disgusting.

​

The CMs are fun, and once in a while you’ll find a little hidden something here or there in the parks. Today’s cute surprise was a mini rubber ducky in one of the displays above the bugs. Can someone please explain this bizarre new phenom with the rubber duckies?! What IS that?! I saw them all over the Balkans and am at a loss. (Speaking of which, the next chapter is up on my private blog for that trip. For those who’ve known me a bit, you might be quite interested in this chapter…. PM me for a link.)

​

The hippos were in the rearview before we got to the aviary where the Rollers and Weavers were busy doing all the things birds do. No one was pooped on in the making of this chapter.

​

The gorillas weren’t very active; in fact, we didn’t even see any in the main viewing area where the glass is. Further on, a couple of the silverbacks were busy doing absolutely nothing, which is exactly what I like to do on any given Saturday morning. Or any given evening after work, for that matter.

​

I recall we chatted it up with a Gorilla CM about the 2 troops but can't recall the info they shared with us. I do remember it was interesting, but apparently, it wasn't enough so to put it to memory.

The trail gave way to Harambe proper where we spent a few minutes enjoying the sights. The kora player was out doing what he does best- playing gorgeous music on this 21-stringed beauty. Whether I got some video or not, I’ll never know. I wiped my phone of photos and videos of this trip prior to leaving for my Europe one and I guess any videos I had are gone. Ah well, if you were a diligent reader you’ll have pressed start on the track of kora I provided.

​

I had wanted to see if we could do a drawing class at the Conservation Station however, even if the train is a short walk away (see, it even says so!), it was not running at all.

(The train's a short walk away)​

Apparently, the Conservation Station is/has? undergoing a major refurb turning it into Bluey’s Wild something or rather. I don’t know much about it at all, and at the time of this writing, I have zero gumption to research it either. I DO know if they got rid of the Animation classes, I’ll be really perturbed. And a vague recollection of the conversation with the CM that day tells me that that is indeed true. I think now the only place to get drawing experiences will be at DHS and AoA resort. Boooo! If anyone has any deets on this, let us know…

The next 2 photos I took strike WAY too close to home. As I mentioned, my new commute is an hour each way, which super sucks. I mean, it’s new, it’s summer, ect… so not too bad right now, but come winter after I’ve had to do it daily for months, I guarantee I’ll view it as pure drudgery. That said, I’m actively looking for a room to rent T-Th nights so I can stay there during the work week.

See?! I’m not the only professional lady looking for a room to rent.

​

But the good news is that my Swahili-speaking friends agree:

(Literally, every door has a key. Proverbally, every tough situation has a solution. - I like it!)​

And now.... I'll part with hoping you all:

​

 

[disneyAndi14]

I think with the whole dinosaur area being closed AK feels so crowded now! Makes me sad
Yes, the drawing classes are no more in AK. They will return in DHS Animation Courtyard with Olaf
The animator will not be a CM anymore but rather a video! Not sure I like that!
it was wonderful to see DeVine in all her glory!
The whole rubber ducky thing just random acts of kindness is what the old internet says. It just went viral apparently!


People leave rubber ducks everywhere primarily as a random act of kindness to make strangers smile.

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

Your AK update was very timely indeed for me. I will come back later to comment but right now I am waiting on my granddaughter to arrive and we are going to the zoo.
Both sets of grandparents clubbed together and bought my wee grandson a “zookeeper for the day” experience for his 8th birthday ( you have to be at least 8) so Sophia and I are going to visit him “at work” later.
His day ( his mum will accompany him) starts at 10am and finishes at 3ish but it’s a wet aul day here so my husband and I are going to bring Sophia up a bit later and hopefully catch a glimpse of him. To say he is excited would be an understatement! To be fair I’m pretty excited for him . Have a lovely Sunday

 

[Wood Nymph]

Your new job sounds nice. They seem to provide a lot of medical services. Dental and psych can be hard to get.

It's nice to be able to enjoy WDW without rushing around, trying to do everything. We are at that point, too.

Back near the area over by the stroller and WC rentals is a little inlet that leads to some backstage areas. Just as we got there, we saw a character just finishing up (I don’t remember who) and another handler came into view from the gate behind- it HAD to be DeVine, I just knew it!

That is where we usually find her.

Did you know you can pull out the drawers in the Naked Mole Rat and reptile/bug house?!

I'm one of those people who rush through this building. I'll have to check the drawers.

 

[buzzrelly]

Oh my gosh, I've missed so much! I didn't realize you had been laid off...what a bummer! I cannot even imagine having lay-offs in my corner of the world sicne there seems to be always a shortage of health care workers for the amount of patients. I'm so glad you were able to find such a great new job! I love Audiobooks but don't forget about podcasts too since they are free to listen to. My favorite is listening to trip reports on WDW Prep. It's like listening a Disboard pre-trip and trip and Shannon's voice is very calm and soothing. I imagine you can get through a bunch of those in your travels.

Love the Baobab tree shout out! Still my favorite safari ride ever!

 

[Steppesister]

I think with the whole dinosaur area being closed AK feels so crowded now! Makes me sad
Yes, the drawing classes are no more in AK. They will return in DHS Animation Courtyard with Olaf
The animator will not be a CM anymore but rather a video! Not sure I like that!
it was wonderful to see DeVine in all her glory!
The whole rubber ducky thing just random acts of kindness is what the old internet says. It just went viral apparently!

View attachment 1077043
People leave rubber ducks everywhere primarily as a random act of kindness to make strangers smile.

I think you're right! And it's going to be that way for a very long time, at least until Tropical Americas opens in 2027. :/

Olaf...? for real? <hard eye roll> and video at that. Brother.

Yes, DeVine is so pretty; I'm glad we circled back!

I guess so. But the ones in EVERY touristy $hiTShop area of Croatia, Hungary, etc... had the bigger ones. I see them in Jeeps a lot too. So weird! Maybe I'm too stingy to swing a load of dough for a duck. LOL!

 

[Steppesister]

Your AK update was very timely indeed for me. I will come back later to comment but right now I am waiting on my granddaughter to arrive and we are going to the zoo.
Both sets of grandparents clubbed together and bought my wee grandson a “zookeeper for the day” experience for his 8th birthday ( you have to be at least 8) so Sophia and I are going to visit him “at work” later.
His day ( his mum will accompany him) starts at 10am and finishes at 3ish but it’s a wet aul day here so my husband and I are going to bring Sophia up a bit later and hopefully catch a glimpse of him. To say he is excited would be an understatement! To be fair I’m pretty excited for him . Have a lovely Sunday

WOW!! What a wonderful and meaningful gift! I love the gifts of experiences over "stuff". This is a core memory maker for sure!

Sunday is so delightful- even if I did pull out the old work laptop for a bit... But the hummer-feeders are fresh, my deck fountains are on with some old school R&B on, and I even splurged on some shopping for myself. My shoe-***** alterego needed a new pair. LOL!

Let us know how the zoo keeping goes!

 

[Steppesister]

Your new job sounds nice. They seem to provide a lot of medical services. Dental and psych can be hard to get.

They do, it's really a very nice clinic. Now... to just get a handle on this new-to-me charting system!

It's nice to be able to enjoy WDW without rushing around, trying to do everything. We are at that point, too.

It's amazing how much is still yet unexplored though too. Like I've never mini-golfed. Never gone to a water park. Still haven't stayed at several of the resorts. So much and most doesn't need rushing.

I'm one of those people who rush through this building. I'll have to check the drawers.

I'll dig a bit more next time too.

 

[Steppesister]

Oh my gosh, I've missed so much! I didn't realize you had been laid off...what a bummer! I cannot even imagine having lay-offs in my corner of the world sicne there seems to be always a shortage of health care workers for the amount of patients. I'm so glad you were able to find such a great new job! I love Audiobooks but don't forget about podcasts too since they are free to listen to. My favorite is listening to trip reports on WDW Prep. It's like listening a Disboard pre-trip and trip and Shannon's voice is very calm and soothing. I imagine you can get through a bunch of those in your travels.

Love the Baobab tree shout out! Still my favorite safari ride ever!

It a totally shocking event and a very emotioally painful one at that. No warning and no closure. But brighter days are ahead! Honestly, I think my old clinic got too big for its britches and there are signs its in a bit of trouble. Glad I'm out.

Yes, I generally am doing podcasts for Family Practice or Internal Med in the AM on the way there to keep my skills fresh, and do "lighter stuff" on the way home.

Let me know if you want the link to my blog for the other TRs. You might be interested...

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

My knee surgery was successful as far as I can tell,

Brilliant news! Glad to hear you are healing well.

while it’s never good to get laid off, it has opened up the time and opportunity to get a lot of healthcare maintenance done

You really did make good use of that unexpected time off and your health insurance while you had it. Always good to get up to date with these things. Well done you!

I started my new job at a rural health clinic

It sounds like a great place to work. Love that there are so many experts on site to help clients take care of their needs.

Now, imagine if you will… 5 days of glorious “Bubble Time” lies ahead

How lovely this sounds

I sat with my free pastry that Caroline had snagged from the Delta Lounge on her way down

Caroline is one clever lady!

We did not hurry; there was no rush whatsoever that morning.

Perfect

(Liking the kora music?)

Yes, very much so. Thank you.

DeVine, you truly are!

DeVine looked absolutely fabulous decked out in her flower and garden best!

maybe I’m just seeing things, but I swear the Imagineers have purposely made this rock as you get closer to the elephant enclosures to look LIKE an elephant!

I totally think that rock looks like an elephant walking away and I’m betting they planned it that way!

A successful photographic hunt behind us,

Great photos as always.

Did you know you can pull out the drawers in the Naked Mole Rat and reptile/bug house?

I had no idea about this. Reminder to self to be a bit more curious next visit.

Can someone please explain this bizarre new phenom with the rubber duckies?!

I have heard there’s a thing about Jeep drivers leaving them on other Jeeps but really no clue otherwise. I don’t see them here much but some people leave painted/ decorated rocks out and about to cheer you up. We also have a thing where ”secret knitters” , I kid you not, decorate lampposts or postboxes with their art. Some of it is amazing and definitely brings a smile to my face. I’ll photograph the next one I come across to share with you if you like?

No one was pooped on in the making of this chapter.

I’m actively looking for a room to rent T-Th nights so I can stay there during the work week.

Wishing you luck . Hopefully you get something sorted soon

(Literally, every door has a key. Proverbally, every tough situation has a solution. - I like it!)

Me too!

The animator will not be a CM anymore but rather a video! Not sure I like that!

That is so sad to hear. CM are so important to any experience and a video cannot interact with those present. I think this is a mistake on Disney’s part.

WOW!! What a wonderful and meaningful gift! I love the gifts of experiences over "stuff". This is a core memory maker for sure!

I prefer to give an experience if I can. Kids especially have so much stuff. I like to think that doing something wonderfully out of the ordinary will stay with them for life.

Sunday is so delightful

Yours sounded wonderful.

Let us know how the zoo keeping goes!

He absolutely loved every minute of it! We were able to see him make up food boxes for the meerkats and feed them (and some otters) plus he fed and did a tongue inspection of the anteaters which was fun to watch. He also learnt so much about caring and feeding the gorillas and chimpanzees and loved telling me how they place the food in different types of containers to enrich the experience for the animals.
Apparently it was “the best day ever “! He even enjoyed mucking out some of the animal enclosures
I really think this kid will end up working with animals in some way as an adult. He has always shared a love of nature and all its creatures and is so comfortable and happy in their presence. I know I am more than a wee bit biased but he is the kindest, most sensitive soul

It's amazing how much is still yet unexplored though too. Like I've never mini-golfed. Never gone to a water park. Still haven't stayed at several of the resorts.

Finally I’ve actually done something you haven’t.
I’ve been to both water parks ( all 3 if you count River Country) and played a couple rounds of mini golf over the years. Seriously though this is what I love about Waltdisneyworld- there are always new things to experience and they don’t always involve standing in a long queue. There are so many resorts I’ve not stepped inside that I hope to visit someday.

ETA Something that might be of interest to you ( and that I don’t remember having seen before). There is a memorial to 10 American Airmen towards the top of Belfast Zoo. Their plane crashed there on 1st June 1944 during WW2. It made for a reflective moment but I was glad to see that they were remembered and commemorated there.

 

[pkondz]

My knee surgery was successful as far as I can tell, but it may also be a bit too premature to really know.

Do a cartwheel. If your leg falls off, it wasn't a successful surgery.
If it stays on, but you wipe out, it was a successful surgery but you can't do a cartwheel.

Let us know how it goes.

I am able to go up and down stairs with alternating legs (as opposed to one foot up or down followed by the other to the same stair)

Sounds like progress.

I’d guess the vast majority have not ever traveled further than the next 1 or 2 counties over.

This always boggles my mind. I think most people don't travel, but... there's so much world out there!

There are no loud staff tossing F-bombs loud enough for patients to hear

nor any inter-employee drama grossness (that I can tell so far).

"so far" being the key term in that sentence.

Give it time.

We are attached to a Denal Clinic on-site

I've decided to read that as a Denial Clinic.
"You're sick."
"No I'm not!"

We also have a licensed Social Worker and a Certified Community Health Worker in office during all business hours. How cool is that?! Diabetes Education- check!; assistance with insurance- check!; prescription help- check!

Impressive.

Pay is better than I was making before.

Well, heck! There ya go!

let’s get on with the content you are all here for!

A discussion of Star Trek vs Star Wars! Okay!!

Was I worried about my fresh layoff? No way, Jose! I had scored a new job within a week and was already collecting unemployment and had a smashing banger of a vacation after this.

You're definitely on a roll.

for the most part, I went without bougie coffee the whole trip.

Who even are you?!?!?

No, really it IS me, and I have not been abducted or replaced.

Prove it!
So far there is great doubt.

We allowed life to be lived at a vacation-style pace rather than a Rope Drop Rush,

<sigh>
Due to the rarity of my visits, I tend to do both Rope Drop and park close.

probably due to both the fact that we have APs and can go a bit more often

I had an AP once... I do remember the feeling.

I don’t need to run from attraction to attraction riding them over and over anymore.

(Liking the kora music?)

Well... yes, but there's an awful lot of chit-chat...

it’s always a treat to see her gliding along in that signature elegance she embodies.

She's awesome.

Harambe makes me smile like a hoarder at a garage sale.

Related to bongo drums

I had a pelican case once...

Nice shot! Love those and their so hard to find at AK (I've found.)

Experience says that if you want the best views of the baobob, sit on the right side of the truck. IYKYK, right @buzzrelly

Am I the only one who sees this?! An elephant walking away from you? Sloped back with one hind leg a bit further back as if it’s walking?

I see it.

Looks like a rock.

Looooove me some AK trails. I’ve noticed them getting busier lately, which selfishly makes me a bit sad. They used to be my quiet AK hidey-hole.

Well, you've been putting the word out and people are listening.

Did you know you can pull out the drawers in the Naked Mole Rat and reptile/bug house?!

in the past I’ve sort of just breezed on through without paying much attention. Mostly because naked mole rats are disgusting.

Tell us how you really feel!

Can someone please explain this bizarre new phenom with the rubber duckies?! What IS that?! I saw them all over the Balkans and am at a loss.

Right??
I saw tons of stores in Amsterdam. What is the deal!?!?!?

No one was pooped on in the making of this chapter.

That's good. You really don't want hippo poop flung on you.

Such a cool shot. Other than the top right corner, you can't even tell there's water.

Further on, a couple of the silverbacks were busy doing absolutely nothing, which is exactly what I like to do on any given Saturday morning. Or any given evening after work, for that matter.

I recall we chatted it up with a Gorilla CM about the 2 troops but can't recall the info they shared with us. I do remember it was interesting, but apparently, it wasn't enough so to put it to memory.

Welcome to middle age!

The kora player was out doing what he does best

Playing checkers?

playing gorgeous music on this 21-stringed beauty.

Still list.... oops! It just ended.

Ah well, if you were a diligent reader you’ll have pressed start on the track of kora I provided.

I did!

(The train's a short walk away)

I thought it said "This way to the egress".

Apparently, the Conservation Station is/has? undergoing a major refurb

I've heard that...

turning it into Bluey’s Wild something or rather.

...did not know this, though.

I think now the only place to get drawing experiences will be at DHS

I can live with that. That's where it started, afterall.

See?! I’m not the only professional lady looking for a room to rent.

[][/]

The animator will not be a CM anymore but rather a video! Not sure I like that!

Well, that's not okay.

 

[vamassey1]

My knee surgery was successful as far as I can tell, but it may also be a bit too premature to really know.

This is great news!

I started my new job at a rural health clinic which is federally subsidized as a rural clinic.

The new job sounds like it's going well.

[][/]

She is so beautiful! I'm so sad I never saw her in her F&G glory.

I don’t know if this is true or not, and maybe I’m just seeing things, but I swear the Imagineers have purposely made this rock as you get closer to the elephant enclosures to look LIKE an elephant! Am I the only one who sees this?!

I can see it now that you pointed it out.

Did you know you can pull out the drawers in the Naked Mole Rat and reptile/bug house?!

I did know this. There are some beautiful and scary looking bugs in there.

No one was pooped on in the making of this chapter.

Luck you! Dennis and I both got pooped on before and was told it was good luck.

 

[Steppesister]

F is for: Fictional Lands, From Far-Away to Fantasy
April 24, 2026- Pt. 2

​

Readers,

You are welcome, but you don’t have to wait! Just come on in, put your feet up and enjoy some time at Animal Kingdom with me.

We last left off with a nice, long exploration of Harambe including its wilder side on the savannahs and in the highlands. Animal Kingdom was intended to lead its guests into “wild” exploration by intentionally creating multiple paths to keep folks guessing at what was around the next bend. It truly is a masterpiece at encouraging a bit of unscripted wandering and that’s part of why I love this park so much!

As we left Harambe, we were gently reminded that “quiet brings blessing”. This has so much truth to it. My work days are so busy, so noisy. It is exhausting and makes me physically tired. The quiet I find on my weekends is truly a blessing to me that I look forward to all week.

​

I had wanted to see if any of the Tree of Life trails were open but as we got a ways down the trail that features the wallabies it was blocked off. Foiled again. I am starting to wonder if those trails will EVER open again. No wonder AK was feeling very crowded! DinoLand, closed; ToL trails, closed; the train and Conservation Station, closed. Geez, Louise!

(This was as close as you get; taken over a fence.)
​

Caroline suggested we go and see the new Zootopia show; it was new to me so I eagerly agreed. We just missed a show so had to wait a bit. That's okay, I took the time to get some snaps of a few of the animal carvings along the way:

​

I also got a few of the storyboard posters in the pre-show area:

​

I noticed the giant ball and assumed it was a huge poo rolley-polley:

​

It is not.

Here is what it really is:

(Zoom in! It reminds me of the (sadly gone) Fountain of Nations)
​

Cute addition to the story-telling, as are the hamster trails:

​

By the way, when we saw that show back in April, I hadn’t seen Zootopia 2 yet. Disney Plus was available on my trans-Atlantic in May, and I watched that and Avatar 2, both of which were okay. Not amazing, but okay, with Avatar slightly edging out the other by a little. Just my opinion, feel free to argue. Anyway, yes, in hindsight I think the show would make a ton more sense after watching the movie.

I didn’t take any photos really during the show itself and just enjoyed it while mostly just trying to figure out the plot.

All that trekking worked up a hankering. Would I eat again shortly?

Well… YEAH!

Do you think I cared?

Yeah, no.

I’d had my eye on a relatively newish snack (at least to me) at the park that you can get at Flame Tree BBQ. It’s been ages since I’ve had anything from there at all. I stopped going there when they discontinued the delicious, enormous fruit platter they used to have. Once upon a time there were some healthier options there. Ah well… sometimes you just have to find better eats and right now that is at Satuli for me. As a side note on AK dining, I am eager to see what the new place in Tropical Americas might have when they open.

​

So, let’s head over to Flame Tree and pick up that order!

(Please take note of the images on the table too for later discussion on this TR)
​

Key Lime Pie Pop: Dipped in Dark Chocolate with Graham Cracker Crumble. Served on a Stick- $6.29

​

I think if you like Key Lime Pie, you’d probably like this. A cold, dark choco-covered pie on a stick. Did I like it?

Not really.

Caroline helped me out which was nice. I hate tossing food (but do it fairly regularly now at Disney when it’s just me solo). I think I would have liked it a lot more had I gone in with accurate expectations. I THOUGHT it was a going to be like a key lime soft-serve covered in choco. No, it was a rich, thicker-than-I-expected, cheesecake-like stuff and just too heavy for my taste. Personally, I don’t think I’d get it again, but YMMV.

The best two things about this snack were:

This gorgeous edible print on the bottom. I honestly really loved this surprise!

​

And, of course, who wouldn’t love this view while resting?!

​

This has been my primo, go-to place for a mid-morning break for years. Most of the time I grab my latte and ham and cheese croissant from Starbies if it’s before 11:00; if it’s after 11:00, I’ve often gotten some iteration of the Mac n Cheese from 8 Spoons.

*RIP Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce Mac n Cheese and may a pock smite all decision-makers who discontinued this.

I hit one of my oft-used potties. Heck, I use them ALL of them multiple times every trip. That is a bit of TMI. But, for my friends who share the scourge of TTBS, you get it, my kindred spirits. In terms of the *SPRS© this is a solid 6/10. The décor is its strong suit, but has been “discovered” now so it’s lost some of its rating in the last couple of years. It’s loud a lot of the time now too with the hip-hop dance party blaring just a few feet away. This could work to your advantage in some cases. Just sayin’.

​

*Steppe’sPottyRatingSystem©

By the time we had finished, it was time for our Navi Lightning Lane. This is definitely my 2nd favorite attraction in AK. Especially when I get a boat of quiet people. *refer to earlier discussion about blessings in quiet

I’m always on the look out for Hidden Mickeys. This one is doubtful, but it did catch my eye:

​

We only waited a few minutes before boarding our reed boat with a front-row view. YUS! No random head shadows in my photos!

​

I always find a new detail and the color palette is so soothing, as is the soundtrack.

​

That day I was able to get the clearest, best shot of the Shaman of Songs I’ve ever gotten. She is absolutely mesmerizing!

​

By the way, she still VASTLY outshines other large animatronics in terms of fluid movement, but is tiny compared to some others! Even compared to the infamous “Yeti that Never Works” she is small.

A comparison:

Animatronic Figure	Theme Park / Location	Scale & Key Fact	Status
King Kong	Carthageland (Tunisia)	42 feet tall / 55,000 lbs	Operational
Argentinosaurus	Zatorland (Poland)	115 feet long / World's longest dinosaur animatronic	Operational
The Yeti	Disney's Animal Kingdom	25 feet tall / 8,000 lbs	Broken (Strobe-light "B-Mode" only)
Frankenstein's Monster	Universal's Epic Universe	9 feet tall / 800 lbs	Operational (Highly dynamic)

And:

Animatronic	Height / Length	Weight	Degrees of Freedom (Movements)	Focus
King Kong (Carthageland)	42 feet tall	55,000 lbs	Low to Moderate	Scale & Impact
The Yeti (Disney)	25 feet tall	8,000 lbs	19 Degrees of Freedom	Power & Speed
Shaman of Songs (Disney)	10 feet tall	375 lbs	81 Degrees of Freedom	Lifelike Realism

Kinda of makes me want to go to Tunisia.

Again.

We waved good-bye to her, and she waved back. Nice of her.

It probably won't shock you that we hit up another potty before making our way towards the park entrance.


The perfectly placed water station near that potty at Satuli:

(Lordy, I love the free cold water Disney gives out!)
​

Oops! Time for another ©SPRS Review…

This is definitely NOT a favorite of mine! It’s always crowded with people coming off of FoP and with a sea of humanity in the area for Satuli’s and the snack kiosk. The theming is poor too. For a higher ©SPRS experience, head towards the entrance/exit of Moara Valley (the main one, not the “Africa” side), where you’ll find a much lovelier potty which is usually quiet with no wait and far better decor.

Caroline wanted to do some looking in one of the shops on the way out. While she browsed, I began the first bit of my intense research project in the Discovery Island area. I’m going to give you the first shots of my hefty collection I’d build over the course of this trip. In fact, my plan is to dedicate an entire chapter to my findings, but that’s not for many chapters from now. I did discover during this initial recon that there is one whole “room” in the Island Mercantile that is themed with elephants. Loads of actually wonderfully carved, colorful elephants are on display in there and the room is accented with cutout silhouettes of ellies as well. Another “room” features bees.

​

The last one I took was of a couple of snakes hovering over a spider. What could these animals/scenes have in common? You know me; I’m a huge sucker for the intricate backstories and theming at the Disney parks. My mission is to make a believer out of you too!

​

I’ll let it rest here now and pick it up next time as we park hop to the 2nd of 3 that day. Yes, 3 parks in one day! We’d done a lot, but were just getting started!

 

[Steppesister]

Brilliant news! Glad to hear you are healing well.

Each day is a little better. Still sore if I walk too much and almost back to pre-surgery pain. So should be getting better than before starting soon.

You really did make good use of that unexpected time off and your health insurance while you had it. Always good to get up to date with these things. Well done you!

I sure did!! I mean I got 6 weeks of WITH pay, plus unemployment, plus time to get my medical stuff done, AND 2 trips in there. C-scope Monday early afternoon. Prep commencing in T- 15 hours. Just ugh.

It sounds like a great place to work. Love that there are so many experts on site to help clients take care of their needs.

I like it so far. I will say there is a bit more micro-managing than I am used to so will have to guard my irritation from that.

Caroline is one clever lady!

Indeed!! <raises a toast>

Yes, very much so. Thank you.

DeVine looked absolutely fabulous decked out in her flower and garden best!

Yes, she is sooo pretty and even moreso during the Spring.

I totally think that rock looks like an elephant walking away and I’m betting they planned it that way!

See?! I thought so too!

I had no idea about this. Reminder to self to be a bit more curious next visit.

Good!!! I love sharing Disney knowledge and have learned so much here on the Boards.

I have heard there’s a thing about Jeep drivers leaving them on other Jeeps but really no clue otherwise. I don’t see them here much but some people leave painted/ decorated rocks out and about to cheer you up. We also have a thing where ”secret knitters” , I kid you not, decorate lampposts or postboxes with their art. Some of it is amazing and definitely brings a smile to my face. I’ll photograph the next one I come across to share with you if you like?

I definitely know about the painted rocks. It was a thing at the RV park I was in while I snowbirded in Tucson. Fun little thing. But knitters... that's a whole new level! LOL! I'd love some photos!

Wishing you luck . Hopefully you get something sorted soon

Nothing yet, but I'm getting the word out.

That is so sad to hear. CM are so important to any experience and a video cannot interact with those present. I think this is a mistake on Disney’s part.

I agree. Big mistake. I think they will see numbers go down and eventually the whole experience will be nixed. BOOOOO!

I prefer to give an experience if I can. Kids especially have so much stuff. I like to think that doing something wonderfully out of the ordinary will stay with them for life.

Me too! I've gotten zoo or science museum memberships for the grandkids for a few years now.

He absolutely loved every minute of it! We were able to see him make up food boxes for the meerkats and feed them (and some otters) plus he fed and did a tongue inspection of the anteaters which was fun to watch. He also learnt so much about caring and feeding the gorillas and chimpanzees and loved telling me how they place the food in different types of containers to enrich the experience for the animals.
Apparently it was “the best day ever “! He even enjoyed mucking out some of the animal enclosures
I really think this kid will end up working with animals in some way as an adult. He has always shared a love of nature and all its creatures and is so comfortable and happy in their presence. I know I am more than a wee bit biased but he is the kindest, most sensitive soul

What an absolute treat for him. I can just imagine his little face glowing with pride and excitement over his day. He sounds like a real leader who will make a wonderful difference in our world.

Finally I’ve actually done something you haven’t.
I’ve been to both water parks ( all 3 if you count River Country) and played a couple rounds of mini golf over the years. Seriously though this is what I love about Waltdisneyworld- there are always new things to experience and they don’t always involve standing in a long queue. There are so many resorts I’ve not stepped inside that I hope to visit someday.

Wow!! Even River Country, which was for certain before my Disney time. I go a bit less now that I have in the past years, but I will never tire of going. I just want to branch out a bit while I still physically can.

ETA Something that might be of interest to you ( and that I don’t remember having seen before). There is a memorial to 10 American Airmen towards the top of Belfast Zoo. Their plane crashed there on 1st June 1944 during WW2. It made for a reflective moment but I was glad to see that they were remembered and commemorated there.

OH that's really neat! I love that. I am hoping to visit Ireland someday. Truly! Maybe I can combine that sometime with a jaunt to the Scottish Highlands where my Grandparents came from. But it'll have to be down the road a bit, but Belfast would definitely be on my list.

 

[Steppesister]

Do a cartwheel. If your leg falls off, it wasn't a successful surgery.
If it stays on, but you wipe out, it was a successful surgery but you can't do a cartwheel.

Let us know how it goes.

I did. I'm writing this from the ICU.

This always boggles my mind. I think most people don't travel, but... there's so much world out there!

And it's interesting and beautiful. Most of all, travel changes your perspective, can make one more grateful, and can give a broader knowledge base. I would never trade my travel for more money or more stuff.

"so far" being the key term in that sentence.

Give it time.

Yes, I have never, ever known one single job situation where there has not been some. I've had lots of jobs on my lifetime and there are always a$$h0l$ who are power hungry, or bad-tempered, or jealous. There are cliques, mean girls, you name it.

I've decided to read that as a Denial Clinic.
"You're sick."
"No I'm not!"

HAHA, nice play!

Well, heck! There ya go!

A discussion of Star Trek vs Star Wars! Okay!!

STAR TREK!!!!

Who even are you?!?!?

Look, I CAN give up my lattes if need be in exchange for a smoother park morning.

<sigh>
Due to the rarity of my visits, I tend to do both Rope Drop and park close.

I get that too. And I can do that given an adequate amount of rest breaks and a sit down meal somehwere in there. And not for more than 3 days in a row.

Well... yes, but there's an awful lot of chit-chat...

Yeah, sorry about that. I actually posted the wrong one.

Related to bongo drums

He could play 4 at at time if he laid on his back and the drums were suspended above him.

Nice shot! Love those and their so hard to find at AK (I've found.)

Thanks! And yes, they are usually waaaaaay back and hiding along the fence in the shade.

Looks like a rock.

You, Sir, are in the minority here.

Well, you've been putting the word out and people are listening.

Oops.

Right??
I saw tons of stores in Amsterdam. What is the deal!?!?!?

The amount in Old Town Budapest was astounding and there were even MORE in Dubrovnik!

Such a cool shot. Other than the top right corner, you can't even tell there's water.

Thanks!! I was super happy when I was editing with that one. Not often I get a real winner.

Welcome to middle age!

Did I mention I'm getting my C-scope Monday? Going to be rather crappy weekend.

I thought it said "This way to the egress".

Silly.

If memory serves, It think "treni" is the same word in Italian for train.

I can live with that. That's where it started, afterall.

That's true, but WHY with a video? That's just stupid!

 

[Steppesister]

This is great news!

The new job sounds like it's going well.

So far, so good.

I can see it now that you pointed it out.

I knew it!

I did know this. There are some beautiful and scary looking bugs in there.

I'll bet those sweet grandsons of yours would love it in there!

Luck you! Dennis and I both got pooped on before and was told it was good luck.

Oh, I've been pooped on in there too over the years. LOL! Part of the adventure.

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

(Zoom in! It reminds me of the (sadly gone) Fountain of Nations)

One of my favourite things! Miss it alot!

And, of course, who wouldn’t love this view while resting?!

Gorgeous view.

Steppe’sPottyRatingSystem©

good to know!

C-scope Monday early afternoon. Prep commencing in T- 15 hours. Just ugh.

Hideous prep but worthwhile nonetheless.

But knitters... that's a whole new level! LOL! I'd love some photos!

Will add them at the end. Need to figure out how!

What an absolute treat for him. I can just imagine his little face glowing with pride and excitement over his day. He sounds like a real leader who will make a wonderful difference in our world.

I adore this kid! He is one of my most favourite humans

I will never tire of going. I just want to branch out a bit while I still physically can.

Maybe I can combine that sometime with a jaunt to the Scottish Highlands where my Grandparents came from.

It would be so easy to do both

 

[vamassey1]

No wonder AK was feeling very crowded! DinoLand, closed; ToL trails, closed; the train and Conservation Station, closed. Geez, Louise!

I hope the situation is better when we get there. The train and Conservation Station will be open, so that should help.

Cute addition to the story-telling, as are the hamster trails:

We did this in December and I got a kick out of these.

By the way, when we saw that show back in April, I hadn’t seen Zootopia 2 yet. Disney Plus was available on my trans-Atlantic in May, and I watched that and Avatar 2, both of which were okay. Not amazing, but okay, with Avatar slightly edging out the other by a little. Just my opinion, feel free to argue. Anyway, yes, in hindsight I think the show would make a ton more sense after watching the movie.

I haven't watched Zootopia 2 all the way through yet and need to in the next week. We saw the new show in December but were in the theater with a crowd of middle schoolers. They were so loud I could not hear the show so did not understand any of it.

And, of course, who wouldn’t love this view while resting?!

[][/]

Best spot ever!

For a higher ©SPRS experience, head towards the entrance/exit of Moara Valley (the main one, not the “Africa” side), where you’ll find a much lovelier potty which is usually quiet with no wait and far better decor.

I totally agree with this assessment.

Loads of actually wonderfully carved, colorful elephants are on display in there and the room is accented with cutout silhouettes of ellies as well. Another “room” features bees.

Now I'm going to have to look for these.

 

[Steppesister]

One of my favourite things! Miss it alot!

I have the soundtrack on now. I discovered Yani and his amazing music through the Fountain. Sigh....

Hideous prep but worthwhile nonetheless.

Exactly.

enjoying my last cup of coffee (with milk) now and I imagine the rest of the day will be... uncomfortable. :/

Will add them at the end. Need to figure out how!

Whoa! That is certainly something.

It would be so easy to do both

Someday... I think for now I need to be a bit careful about asking for time off and probably safest only doing one week at a time off for now.

 

[Steppesister]

I hope the situation is better when we get there. The train and Conservation Station will be open, so that should help.

I think Panora boosted this park's attendance and also as the park "matures" into what it was supposed to be when designed it's gotten more attention. Now that a big chunk is closed it just can't hold the crowds as well. My prediction is that when Tropicals opens it won't get any better because of the Indy Ride. Plus it'll attract more kids too. I think the gig is up there.

Poop.

We did this in December and I got a kick out of these.

So cute!

I haven't watched Zootopia 2 all the way through yet and need to in the next week. We saw the new show in December but were in the theater with a crowd of middle schoolers. They were so loud I could not hear the show so did not understand any of it.

Ugh, just ugh. Soooooooo annoying. And so rude. I'd have asked for my money back.

Best spot ever!

I totally agree with this assessment.

Some people do food/dining reviews. Some people do Resort Reviews. Steppe does potty review.

Now I'm going to have to look for these.

In a nutshell, there are 4 THEMES on Discovery Island and each one is supported by the art. I'm excited to go into depth, but towards the end of my TR.