Welcome home, Glynis! I cannot wait to hear about your impressions of the World!
CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN ON FINISHING THE HALF!
One of the questions that Kate asked me was, "do you feel like a fish out of water?" My answer was, "YES!" I can do DL with my eyes closed and one arm tied behind my back. I know where everything is, and can get you there the shortest route. I know all the tips and tricks, and can really maximize my time there.
MK was a different story! Everything is in a different place, and it's HUGE! I know, laugh at the new girl! Anyway, we had a really good time, but I kept getting frustrated with Alan and his brother and sister. None of them are Disney fans like me, and they were SO SLOW!!! We were supposed to have a full day at MK, but by the time the 3 of them got up and going it was already 9:00. We were supposed to be at WWOS to pick up our marathon packets, and then off to MK. I knew we'd get the MK after opening, but there was nothing that I could do about that. We got our marathon packets in good time, but then I couldn't drag the other 3 out of the Expo! They wanted to try out all the goodies, and spend all their time there. Finally I dragged Alan off to one side, reminded him that this trip was for MY 40th birthday, and I was not having a good time! He convinced his siblings to leave and we were off to MK. Unfortunately, Alan's brother decided he was hungry and had to have something to eat NOW! I tried to convince him that he could find food at the MK, but he refused to wait any longer. So, we pulled into the nearest McDonald's and had lunch.
Finally, we were off to MK. I had tried for several weeks to get everyone together to form a game plan, but they all just wanted to wander and not commit to anything. Arrrgh!!!!! So, I got out my bossy hat and just took over. I told them that I absolutely had to see POTC, HM, Philharmagic, and anything else we had time for. They all insisted that we'd have time for everything. I kept reminding them that we had to leave for WL by 4:15, but they ignored me. I bullied them into Pirates, and it was ok. I do have to say that I feel that the ride is better in DL. I just kept waiting for a drop and there never was much of one. Oh well, at least I got to see Capt. Jack!
Next we hightailed it to BTMRR. The line was long, so I snagged some fast passes and we went on. Carrie and Scott had never heard of fast passes, and were amazed that I knew about them. Duh! Don't they know I'm a Disney fiend???? On to HM. Good ride! It's pretty much the same as DL, but I liked the new overhaul at DL. It kind of gives a better story line to the ride.
Back to Big Thunder and a wonderful ride! I always like this ride. I think this one might be a bit better in Florida. It seemed like there were more twists and slopes! Very nice.
We then journeyed to FL and on to Mickey's Philharmagic! Excellent movie!!! I love 3D movies and this one is spectacular! I wish that they would get rid of Honey I Shrunk the Audience in DL and put this in it's place.
We wanted to try to hit SM, but I wasn't too sure if we could timewise. The wait time was over an hour, so I nix'ed it, and suggested CoP. It was a nice break, and kind of fun to watch. I was able to talk to Lynn at this point, and was disappointed to find out she wouldn't be at dinner. Oh well. Maybe another time.
After CoP, I insisted that we leave for WL. It was like trying to herd alligators! They were so slow!!!!! By the time we got to the car it was already 4:45 and I knew we would be late. Thankfully, Scott let me out at valet parking, and I was able to get inside while he and Alan parked the car. Finally, I got to meet Kate and Ellen! It was just like a big family reunion! I felt like I had known them forever!! It was so fun to meet their families, as well! I can't begin to tell you how enjoyable those 3 hours were! We talked and laughed and told stories non-stop!
We finally realized that if we were going to get up at 3:00 to make it to the marathon start, we needed to leave.
Next time, I will definitely just take charge of planning the whole day, and take no prisoners. At DL, you can fly by the seat of your pants, but you really need a game plan for WDW.
More to come later!
DH ended up having to go get DS from camp that day, it was the biggest mess I have ever seen. Next time I will go the week before so I have wiggle room if it is crowded!
I'll be praying for you Jennifer and your family!!
She was on her way to pick up Olivia from her mom, then they were going to go break the news to her Grandma. 
