The ABCs of Another Steppe Into Adventure!- Last Africa Ch. + World Showcase Pt. 2

[pkondz]

You're both wrong. A new black, full length, backless gown would come with a brand new tiara as well.

Well, of course. I just assumed that was a given.

I have 5 days off in a row now.... Imma party with bill paying, laundry (again), cleaning toilets...

Wow! You really know how to party!!! Woot!!!!!

Oh heavens no. I rocked my ancient granny undies. (And prayed like never before I'd not get in an accident in which anyone'd see them)

I don't think I'd let one do that. Ever. People confuse animals with humans and think they think like humans do. Animals still have their animal instincts. Respect them for what they are. I think they are fascinating and often times very pretty in coloring and pattern. Some are even nice to touch. Just my humble opinion, realizing it's very different than most other folks'.

I agree. I think a dog is a pet. A cat. A snake? It's not affection... it wants warmth. You could be a hot rock in the sun for all it cares.
Again... just my opinion.
I think they're kinda cool... to look at. But not for petting or cuddling.

Yes, I am. Well... not demanding, but... requesting? Perhaps I should put 50s on the should-try list.

Only if you want. If all you want is fried chicken and don't want the antics, then you probably could stick with the Plaza. But... those rings... Yum! And you don't always get antics. It just depends on the server. Like anywhere.

Me neither. Seems somewhat (ok, a lot) immature.

And dangerous. "That guy cut me off! <flips the bird>....." later... "So, after I wake up from surgery, a cop is there telling me not to flip off Hell's Angels."

Seriously, road rage (for example) isn't going to be helped by flipping someone off.

No, I want both, in the form of a frozen marg.

Smart!! Ditch it is.

NO, but assumed it was fresh from somewhere? Perhaps naive.

It could be? But I have my doubts.

Not bad for a good old educated guess!

Seems to nowadays. The art of debate and having differing opinions on matters seems to be lost.

Too true. If you have a differing opinion, you're insulted or reviled.

Okay, fine. Minced up tiny in stuffing. Not whole on skewers.

Still counts.

Dang, that's well said.

 

[pkondz]

I apologize for the fewer than normal replies on your threads.

No worries! You've certainly been working hard!

So!!!! That means it's time to start writing tomorrow.

Yay!

 

[mom3sonstt]

I’m not sure where the weird number formatting came from with all my cutting and pasting. But my answers are below...except the designated PM only ones.

3) Would you order a meal at the Sunset Room? If so, what would you have had (at least 3 items)? (gimme points)

1. I’ll take the spring chicken, autumn salad and some apple pie please

1. 
   
2. 4) Tate had one more snack at DHS that day. What was it?
3. a. Mickey bar
4. b. Popcorn
5. c. Ice cream cone
6. d. Cream cheese pretzel

Classic mickey bar

1. 5) Did Steppe buy any souvenirs while at DHS?

Nah

1. 6) Story time for a point: What is your favorite tradition on Christmas Day or Eve?

I don’t know if it’s considered a tradition or not. But our Christmas morning gift passing out consists of my husband giving each of the boys gifts one at a time. This makes shopping/wrapping a chore because I have to keep the number of packages the same for all 3 of them. This means sometimes someone (usually Ryne) gets a couple items wrapped up together because they like multiple inexpensive gifts, and other people (usually Sean) getting a box of Mac n cheese as a gift because they want a more expensive gift. I also try to keep the total spent on each of them about the same. . Did I mention my boys are 24 - 28?


Oh, I also always get Mark some sort of Chicago Cubs ornament(s).


There is always a Lenox Kermit the frog ornament on our tree in memory/honor of my brother. (He played Kermit in high school when they did Sesame Street as a musical) there is also always a lenox Kermit sitting on a bench and a precious moments boy on a riding lawn mower as table decorations for my brother and dad at moms.


Tanya

 

[docsoliday1]

Oh, I also always get Mark some sort of Chicago Cubs ornament(s).


There is always a Lenox Kermit the frog ornament on our tree in memory/honor of my brother. (He played Kermit in high school when they did Sesame Street as a musical) there is also always a lenox Kermit sitting on a bench and a precious moments boy on a riding lawn mower as table decorations for my brother and dad at moms.


Tanya

On my phone, so pertinear (that's southern for almost) impossible to multi quote...

Want to adopt me? I like Cubs ornaments too!

Cool story about your brother with Kermit memorabelia. Sorry for your loss, but nice way to remember/honor him.

 

[mom3sonstt]

My brother died the day before thanksgiving 2008, I bought all 3 boys the Kermit ornament so when they had trees of their own they would have one. So far only one of them has moved out, but Kermit is on his tree too. The Kermit on a bench is holding a bouquet of flowers with my moms birthstone. I got that for her the next mother’s day.


I was going to post a pic of our tree, but it said the file was too large. But our tree used to be covered in random ornaments that I’d purchased at craft fairs, the kids had made, Disney ones, every square inch was covered in ornaments. As years went on and I was getting worn out (kidney failure-dialysis for about 5 years before my transplant) I did less and the boys did more. Then mark said if he had to put the tree up he wanted to decorate it his way. He used only the cubs ones that we had, plus a couple for the rest of us (jack sparrow for me, Elvis for his dad...) and he went and bought some cubs garland and a few more ornaments. Since then I’ve kept my eye out for new ones. Our tree toppers is a Cubs Santa hat. In 2016 it was upgraded to a cubs World Series champion Santa hat. He’ll be all set for a tree if he ever gets his own place!
[GALLERY=][/GALLERY]

 

[Steppesister]

Just a point of clarification on Contest Question #1. I was intending for you to count the times the word (or any part of it, including a single letter) "Hollywood" appears in PHOTOS. If you would like to go back and re-so the question now is the time. If you have NOT guessed on this chapter at all, get 'er done. Chapter goes up tonight.

 

[Steppesister]

*** A word of caution: This post is not full of badly written attempts at humor or feely-good Disney moments. This post takes on a more serious tone; one in which every now and then might be refreshing. ***

I was extremely reluctant to go the way I did with this chapter given recent events and the political climate we live in. Remember, these are my own opinions and observations and I not only realize, but respect that yours could be quite different. I didn’t write these lines with intent to pick a fight, cause strife among friends, or begin a debate. Again, I will emphasize here that I also fully realize we have much work to do to make positive changes, but that the opinions on the best ways to approach them vary widely. These are just my own feelings on an evening spent at my favorite place… so now, without further explanation…

is for:
In Honor of My Country​

Probably a lot like you all, I have a long Bucket List of Disney-Dos. On this particular day, the stars (and stripes) aligned, and I was able, by sheer dumb luck, to scratch off and thoroughly enjoy two of them.

Coincidentally, both share a theme.

I know many of my readers are from other countries, so please excuse me while I gush a bit about ‘Murica.

I consider myself to be a fairly patriotic kind of gal. The more I travel internationally, the happier I am that I am blessed enough to live in a place that, perhaps contrary to what you may read, and at the same time arguably in a fragile state, is fairly stable. For the time being there are no active acts of genocide, no groups of armed militants sweeping through small villages raping and killing their way to the next, and no chemical bombs being dropped in its citizens. All opinions and controversies aside, we live in an unimaginably wealthy country, where even our homeless have socks, where we have incredible natural resources, and gorgeous landscapes that make up “home”.

I will make no apologies when I proudly stand for my flag and take a moment to pause to say a silent bit of thanks for living in a place where we have garbage service, orderly traffic patterns, tap water that’s drinkable (yes, I’m aware of the Flint issue), and a medical care system that doesn’t make a 10-year old boy wait months for cancer treatment. I’m all too aware of the ongoing need to work on making things better; please don’t misunderstand me. But by comparison, we live in a pretty damn good place.

Given that, and the fact that I was about to be slammed with coming face to face with a place in this world that lacks 100% of what I just described, I was thrilled to have stumbled across something I’ve long wanted to do- the Flag Retreat in the Town Square. For years, I’ve always seemed to just miss it by the time I remembered it was going on. I guess my touring style doesn’t usually find me in that area around 5:00 PM. And that’s when the Flag Retreat happens. Every single day that the Magic Kingdom is open.

But on this day, because I’d park hopped for a Very Merry Party, I found myself there. Honestly, I didn’t really know what to expect, so when Joe Hursh announced that it was to imminently begin, I hustled on over and got a front row piece of concrete- as close as I could get without the CMs maintaining a perimeter scolding me. With quite some (appropriate) pomp and circumstance the Walt Disney World Marching Band entered from the Train Station side escorting the Veteran Guest of Honor to the Flagpole area. While he, and several other veterans I noticed, saluted, the band played a glorious rendition of The National Anthem as the flag was lowered by a uniformed security guard in reverence. At its conclusion, the flag was folded, and then presented to the selected Vet. Yes, I got teary. Yes, it was somewhat emotional. Yes, it’s still appropriate, in my humble opinion, to give respect to those who’ve fought and died for our freedoms and to pause to reflect in genuine gratefulness on the good we still have here in America. Perhaps I’m too much a glass half-full kind of gal, but I’d so much rather focus on the positive and be grateful than always look at the negative and whine and complain.

After the flag was presented, the WDW Band, loads of CMs, and the Vet marched parade-style up Main Street towards the castle. Their final destination I know not. Do I need to make sure to catch this every time? No. Am I glad I have seen it once? Absolutely. It was very moving. I was impressed with the respectful vibe of the crowd. Hats were off, hands were on hearts, it was reverently quiet, and most even sang the words to the Anthem. Refreshing. Enjoy the few photos I managed to get:











Contemplative, I made my way up the now darkened, but festively lit, Main Street, and it wasn’t long afterwards that it was almost time to meet Cinderkelly and pkondz. We all had our own agendas mostly, and Cinderkelly had her family with her, so I wasn’t counting on a long Meet. Casey’s was our rendezvous point, so I sauntered over thataway. A few Christmassy photos along the way:



It was fantastic to catch the Castle Lighting, another something I've very long wanted to see!









And a couple more from Main Street:





And a place I could very easily watch the whole set. I've not seen many other CMs like Jim who so obviously love their job.



It wasn’t long that the 3 of us met up and warm hugs were shared. A few gifts were exchanged, and a bit of friendly conversation was enjoyed. (A photo does exist, but it was taken on Kelly's phone and she didn't post it?? I went back to her thread but didn't find it.) Kelly’s family was antsy to get moving (it was a party, so that was very much expected!). I had some things I absolutely wanted to do like the parade, the fireworks, and see the snow on Main Street, but I was in no hurry to do anything but take in the atmosphere and all of those events were hours off yet. That’s when “patriotic” opportunity #2 struck. Pkondz asked what my plans were, and I told him I was really in no rush other than to take photos and enjoy the evening.

“I have an ADR at LTT, I’m sure they could seat you too. Ever been there?”

“Why no. No, I haven’t. But I don’t want to crash your dinner.”

“If you’ve never been and you’re hungry, you should give it a try.”

Truth be told, I was hungry, and I was fairly intrigued about it too- especially the Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake that everyone raves about. So, we headed off in that direction stopping along the way to take some photos (which I’ll share in a later update). And, since this was a holiday party of sorts, why not celebrate and include a holiday-style meal? It just doesn’t get any more traditional than this: A gigantic platter of roast pork, turkey, and beef, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, mac and cheese, and rolls. I am not a very big eater, and this was far, FAR too much food for lil ol’ me. I tried everything, and it truly was all very delicious. The turkey was juicy, the beef tender. If I had any complaints, the pork was a bit too salty for my taste and the stuffing was a bit too moist, but everything else was just right. The green beans were tender-crisp, and the cranberry sauce was the chunky kind, not jellied. Yum! In addition to the prix fixe menu items, I ordered a mimosa to sip during dinner.


Sorry for the pretty horrible food pix:



I've had much better salads. The lettuce was pretty wilted.











The only thing about this meal that made me go, "Hmmm..." was as they called each party’s name, the CMs all clapped and cheered for the group. It was just… odd and seemed out of place.

For me, it’s the little things aside from the food that makes a meal. The plates were shaped like triangles in an artistic salute to the tri-fold hats of the Minutemen. All of the little serviceware, including the gravy boat on the table, was crafted of faux pewter and the tables were made of distressed wood to add an antique, Colonial touch to the place. Portraits of the Founding Fathers hung on the walls amidst more pewter serviceware and other antique knickknacks.

After I put myself into the WAY-too-full category, it was time to head out to get my merry on. Things to see, stuff to do! I was glad I’d accepted the invitation- If I hadn’t, it’d been a dismal array of burger and hot dog options (which I try my best to avoid for the most part while at Disney. Unless I have Corn Dog Nuggets planned- which I did. But that was for much later on in the night….) and people watching instead of nice dinner conversation. All too soon dinner was over, but the evening still held many wonderful things. The party, as you’ll see in another chapter, is well worth the money.

I hope this weekend finds you happy and healthy. I miss a lot of you. I'm not sure where the majority of my "posters" have gone, but you are missed. To those of you still commenting and having fun with me, thank you!!! You make a TR worth writing!


Only one contest question this round. Where is this Mystery Photo?




Letter H Contest Questions:

1) How many times does the word "Hollywood" or parts of it appear in this update? Updated to clarify: In the photos of this Chapter.

12, I also gave credit for 13 because one of those on the menu was super blurry, so still gave credit for answers of 12.

2) List all of the different types of classic Christmas items in the decorations you can- 1 point for each kind. (example... bows, stars, etc...)

I just counted up what you gave me. No ice cream doesn’t count, @Captain_Oblivious .

3) Would you order a meal at the Sunset Room? If so, what would you have had (at least 3 items)? One point if you listed 3.

4) Tate had one more snack at DHS that day. What was it?
a. Mickey bar
b. Popcorn
c. Ice cream cone
d. Cream cheese pretzel

D- And it wasn’t even that good. Won’t get another unless it’s the jalepeno variety.

5) Did Steppe buy any souvenirs while at DHS?

No. Steppe really doesn’t like shopping all that much.

6) Story time for a point: What is your favorite tradition on Christmas Day or Eve?

We have loads of peoples over and I cook. All day. If I’m not cooking I’m cleaning up. But, we have a more fun one of my giving the kids one gift to open on Christmas Eve. Sometimes it’s pajamas or winter scarves and mitts, or a game or movie for us all to enjoy.

7) Your Letter H Mystery Photo... (your answer will be somewhere ON Disney Property and begins with Letter H.

Where is this?

At the Dawa Bar in Harambe. It’s delicious!

Your answers:

Poolrat: 10, 12, menu 3, Cream cheese pretzel, no shopping, Tradition- cooks Eve meal, Harambe- 17
Terra Nova Guy- 12, 10, Menu 3, Mickey Bar, yes shopping, Tradition- parade, Harambe- 14
Docsoliday- xx, 13, menu 3, pretzel, yes shopping, tradition- Christmas movies, Harambe- 18 *see PM
Pkondz- 13, 13, menu 3, Mickey bar, no shopping, tradition- Midnight Mass, Harambe- 18
Franandaj- 12, 15, menu 3, Mickey bar, no shopping, Tradition- yummy breakfast, Hararmbe- 20
Captain Oblivious- 6, 12, menu 3, pretzel, yes shopping, tradition- Waffle House in jammies, Harambe- 16
Mom3sonstt- 11, 13, menu 3, Mickey Bar, no shopping, Tradition- Kermit ornaments, Harambe- 17

Totals to this point:

pkondz: 17 + 18 = 35
franandaj: 14 + 20 = 34
docsoliday: 13 + 18 = 31
Captain_Oblivious: 11 + 16 = 27
Mom3sonstt: 5 + 17 =22
Terra Nova Guy: 3 + 14 =17
Poolrat: 0 + 17 = 17
Chrystmasangel: 13 + 0 = 13
Princess Leia: 9 + 0 = 9
Amazingact21: 3 + 0 = 3
Rndmr2: 3 + 0 = 3

 

[DonnaBeeGood]

.

 

[Steppesister]

Well done Steppesister - it's always nice to hear people proud of their country and the reasons why. Sometimes it's hard to find the right tone in the midst of tragedies and politics; I think we are all learning things in this information age and how to research and balance our knowledge.

Admittedly, this was a tough one. I am a bit reticent waiting for responses and it could come back to bite me, so hope it doesn't come across as offensive or anything.

I didn't know about the flag ceremony; I am usually deeper in the park at that time of day, but will try to remember that for next month.

I think most folks are, unless they are leaving the park for dinner around then.

Glad you enjoyed LTT - I know it would also be too much food for me, so we went at lunch and I enjoyed 2 appetizers instead. But I missed all the plate details!

It was a fluke and has never been really on my radar. Glad it worked out this time around!

ETA: The lit up castle has been my phone screen saver for years!

It was so beautiful; kind of had some "shock value" in a very amazing, wonderful way!

 

[GreatBiscuit]

Awesome job on the night shots. I LOVE the castle / fireworks shots!

Well Done!

That meal looked mighty tasty too!

 

[Steppesister]

Awesome job on the night shots. I LOVE the castle / fireworks shots!

Well Done!

That meal looked mighty tasty too!

Thanks GB! It was so pretty with all the Christmas lights up and sparkling. And the castle all icicle-y and shining with a million diamonds was stunning IRL. Loved it!

 

[Flossbolna]

Slowly getting back on the DIS... I did some catch up reading yesterday and just read your recent update! So, here I am - you asked about the lost readers and I am sefish enough to consider myself one of them!

I am happy that you got so much positive energy out of the flag retreat! I think patriotism is great if it inspires one to want to work towards improving one's nation. And that is very much the vibe that I got from your post.

I only ever had lunch at LTT, but your dinner looks good, too. I just remember being very annoyed when they cancelled the characters there (they had Minnie and Mickey in colonial outfits) and did not adjust the price at all. Ever since then the dinner has been filed in the category "way overpriced" for me. To be fair, most other Disney restaurants kind of joined LTT, but maybe because it was the first in that category, it stuck the most?

I don't think I am going to join the contest that late in the game!

 

[jedijill]

Catching back up.

As a veteran, the flag retreats moves me too and I'm glad Disney recognizes veterans in that way.

LTT is good...glad you got a chance to try it! The Colony salad is my favorite though!

Jill in CO

 

[pooh'smate]

We have watched the flag retreat also and it was so moving. We have only eaten at LTT for lunch but we enjoyed it. I really wanted to eat there for supper but when they took away the characters we moved our adr to lunch.

 

[mickeystoontown]

I enjoyed the latest update and I think that you did an excellent job conveying your thoughts and opinions. I, too, am one that normally sees the glass as half full. So glad that you were able to see the flag retreat (something that we have yet to see in all of our 24 trips) and meet up with some fellow Disers. It's been years since we have eaten at Liberty Tree Tavern but I may just have to remedy that in the future.

 

[mom3sonstt]

I've had the privilege of seeing the Flag Lowering ceremony twice, and a 3rd time I came across the procession marching in to a "side street" off Main Street (right side of the street as you are going towards the castle). One time I made a point to be there for it, the other time I lucked in to it while Ryne was visiting Mickey and TinkerBell.

We haven't been to Liberty Tree in a long time. It used to be a somewhat regular choice, but since it's been mostly just me and Ryne we haven't gone there.

AUGH I knew I should have changed to 12...I wonder which ones I missed. And I actually think I skipped the blurry one on the menu, but I did count the one one the chocolate "Derby", and the logo on the bell.

I'm kind of hit and miss being on here. Going through something a bit unexpected here at home that has kept me a little pre-occupied. (No details but....Nobody's sick, nobody's getting married or having babies, and it looks like we're getting close to the other side of it...with a happy ending, so all's well)

 

[Steppesister]

Slowly getting back on the DIS... I did some catch up reading yesterday and just read your recent update! So, here I am - you asked about the lost readers and I am sefish enough to consider myself one of them!

I have been thinking about you a lot lately! I was going to text Marv, in fact, to see if her knew if you were even okay or not. I knew you had some very big things going on so figured that you just took some time off to adjust. But then it went so long that I hadn't heard from you that I did begin to worry a bit. Glad you're slowly coming back; you've been missed! Yes! You are one of my readers that was lost that I had wondered about- not selfish at all.

I am happy that you got so much positive energy out of the flag retreat! I think patriotism is great if it inspires one to want to work towards improving one's nation. And that is very much the vibe that I got from your post.

I was hoping that that was what was portrayed.

I only ever had lunch at LTT, but your dinner looks good, too. I just remember being very annoyed when they cancelled the characters there (they had Minnie and Mickey in colonial outfits) and did not adjust the price at all. Ever since then the dinner has been filed in the category "way overpriced" for me. To be fair, most other Disney restaurants kind of joined LTT, but maybe because it was the first in that category, it stuck the most?

If the characters is what drew you in, and then they disappeared without a change in the price- yes, I'd be annoyed too! It was fairly pricey, but was a lot of food too. If a big eater goes, s/he would certainly get their money's worth. Not being a big character at meals fan, I was happy without, plus not having had them to begin with, I didn't miss them. IF that makes sense?

I don't think I am going to join the contest that late in the game!

No worries- it's there just for fun and for those who want to play. I'm just glad you're back!!

 

[Steppesister]

Catching back up.

As a veteran, the flag retreats moves me too and I'm glad Disney recognizes veterans in that way.

I can imagine for Vets it'd be very honoring- I really think it's done in a classy, genuine way. I know Walt was very patriotic and I'm glad Disney has stuck with this tradition for so long. And I"ve not ever thanked you if memory serves... THANK YOU for your service. I truly appreciate anyone who gives up all they do/did. I know they are not small sacrifices seeing my son and his little family having to deal with all that service in the military is.

LTT is good...glad you got a chance to try it! The Colony salad is my favorite though!

Me too!! And I went back to look at the lunch menu to see what is different about it.... that salad looks amazing!! I love everything listed in it!

 

[pkondz]

*** A word of caution: This post is not full of badly written attempts at humor or feely-good Disney moments. This post takes on a more serious tone; one in which every now and then might be refreshing. ***

Okay. Thanks for the warning. Teflon armour donned.


This better be worth it. That armour chafes!

I was extremely reluctant to go the way I did with this chapter given recent events and the political climate we live in.

What a world we live in...

Probably a lot like you all, I have a long Bucket List of Disney-Dos.

Nope! Got 'em all done. Polished off the last two on the last trip.

the stars (and stripes) aligned,

Nicely done.

to scratch off and thoroughly enjoy two of them.

I would like to do that with instant win lottery tickets.


But all I ever get is "Please play again".

I know many of my readers are from other countries, so please excuse me while I gush a bit about ‘Murica.

Perfectly all right. I think there's nothing wrong about being proud of your home.
I'm proud to be an American too! And I bet any Argentinian, Bolivian, Brazilian, Chilean, Ecuadorian, Guyanan, Mexican, Paraguayan, Peruvian, Surinamian, Uruguayan or Venezuelan would say the same!

I consider myself to be a fairly patriotic kind of gal.

With a child in the military, I can see that even more.

and no chemical bombs being dropped in its citizens.

I've dropped a few chemical bombs in my day.... really need to apologize for those.... but I usually try to look innocent and blame it on someone else. Or the dog.



As far as having one dropped in me..... I keep telling you, I haven't been to Taco Bell yet!

we have incredible natural resources, and gorgeous landscapes that make up “home”.

I will make no apologies when I proudly stand for my flag

Nor should you. I get that feeling when I see my flag raised.

a medical care system that doesn’t make a 10-year old boy wait months for cancer treatment.

Any news on Abu? Last I saw, he got his passport.

Given that, and the fact that I was about to be slammed with coming face to face with a place in this world that lacks 100% of what I just described,

I was thrilled to have stumbled across something I’ve long wanted to do- the Flag Retreat in the Town Square.

I'm glad you got to do this, but....

Not being from the US, that's never been on my radar. If I stumbled upon it while it was happening..... I'd probably just walk right past.

I hustled on over and got a front row piece of concrete- as close as I could get without the CMs maintaining a perimeter scolding me.

Interesting. I see from your photos, but I would not have thought they'd block off an area.

With quite some (appropriate) pomp and circumstance the Walt Disney World Marching Band entered from the Train Station side escorting the Veteran Guest of Honor to the Flagpole area. While he, and several other veterans I noticed, saluted, the band played a glorious rendition of The National Anthem as the flag was lowered by a uniformed security guard in reverence. At its conclusion, the flag was folded, and then presented to the selected Vet. Yes, I got teary.

And that's okay. It sounds like it was a very moving ceremony.

Perhaps I’m too much a glass half-full kind of gal, but I’d so much rather focus on the positive and be grateful than always look at the negative and whine and complain.

That's what we love about you.

After the flag was presented, the WDW Band, loads of CMs, and the Vet marched parade-style up Main Street towards the castle. Their final destination I know not.

They were led straight to the back of the park and out the secret back door where they were ground up into pixie dust. This is Disney's ugly secret that it doesn't want people to know about.

Enjoy the few photos I managed to get

I did! Thank you!

It was fantastic to catch the Castle Lighting, another something I've very long wanted to see!

This is something else that I did not have on my list. It just seemed..... garish. Too much.
But when seen with everything else... and the festive nature of the park.... it fit. I liked it.

Man, that guy is awesome.
I jokingly said that I don't have anything left on my bucket list and of course that's not true.
But one item that is on my list.... I'd love to grab a table nearby, with a nice drink at my elbow, and listen to his set.

Pkondz asked what my plans were, and I told him I was really in no rush other than to take photos and enjoy the evening.

“I have an ADR at LTT, I’m sure they could seat you too. Ever been there?”

I don't think I was that forward! I asked you what your plans were, and asked you if you had an ADR for that day and you said no. (I think because of the party, maybe?)
Since you didn't have one, that's when I asked if you'd like to join me.

And, since this was a holiday party of sorts, why not celebrate and include a holiday-style meal?

I am not a very big eater, and this was far, FAR too much food for lil ol’ me.

And I'm glad you said yes! I would have left an embarrassing amount of food on the table. Between the two of us, we still left a fair bit.

the stuffing was a bit too moist,

Interesting, because I liked it most like that. I don't care for it if it's too dry.

I've had much better salads. The lettuce was pretty wilted.

I don't remember that.... but I had higher food priorities that day.

The only thing about this meal that made me go, "Hmmm..." was as they called each party’s name, the CMs all clapped and cheered for the group. It was just… odd and seemed out of place.

Yeah, I can see that. I'd been before (years and years ago) and had forgotten. But... for whatever reason, it didn't seem all that odd to me.

For me, it’s the little things aside from the food that makes a meal. The plates were shaped like triangles in an artistic salute to the tri-fold hats of the Minutemen. All of the little serviceware, including the gravy boat on the table, was crafted of faux pewter and the tables were made of distressed wood to add an antique, Colonial touch to the place.

I don't remember any of that! You've got a good eye for detail.

Portraits of the Founding Fathers hung on the walls

Well, then there's the foreigner's perspective "Oh, those must be photos of supposed family members to bring a homey touch to the room."

and people watching instead of nice dinner conversation.

I wouldn't have been insulted if you'd said "No"! I certainly understand the fun in sitting and people watching for a while.

The party, as you’ll see in another chapter, is well worth the money.

I'm interested to hear what you did and why you feel it's worth the money. (I'm not saying if it is or isn't.)

To those of you still commenting and having fun with me, thank you!!! You make a TR worth writing!

Only one contest question this round. Where is this Mystery Photo?

PM sent.

D- And it wasn’t even that good. Won’t get another unless it’s the jalepeno variety.

Dang. Only one I got wrong. I had one in DL and was highly underwhelmed (I didn't even finish it... which is saying a lot), so didn't think you would go that route.

And I see you had the same reaction to it.

pkondz: 17 + 18 = 35
franandaj: 14 + 20 = 34

Still out front, but Alison is closing fast!

 

[Terra Nova guy]

I stumbled upon the flag retreat on the last day of my family's last trip. We were leaving early to get back to the resort to pack up for our early morning flight. Being Canadian, although it's not "my flag", I still find it's a ceremony that demands respect. Obviously there are differences between our countries, but there are a great many similarities with my brothers and sisters in the south. Despite being in a bit a rush, I asked my family to stop and watch the flag retreat that day. It was a moving and somewhat fitting end to our trip.