Cass
www.casshew.com
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The Fatten'em Plan: A Trip Report w/ pics
- Thread starter Cass
- Start date
I am loving your report! A VIP guide will never be in my budget so to read about your trip is the next best thing! It sounds like an incredible day! We were at MGM on the 17th too!
And I recall seeing some CMs in the plaid vests throughout the week but I didn't know who they were or what their job was.
Keep it coming, such an incredible trip you all had!
Allyson
And I recall seeing some CMs in the plaid vests throughout the week but I didn't know who they were or what their job was.
Keep it coming, such an incredible trip you all had!
Allyson
Cass
www.casshew.com
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 6,805
So now it's time to let the girls in on today's intinerary.
The first thing I tell them is that they will be splitting up from each other for a few hours.
"What?!?!" both girls say in unison
and then they clutch and hug each other like I just told them the world was ending and they had 15 minutes to live.
I explained to them that I had something booked for Noel and I to do, but it was only for ages 13 and up, so Megan (who is 12) wasn't allowed to do it.
'But why??' Noel whines, "Why can't Megan go too"
I just explained that. She is not old enough.
The girls are still clutching each other for dear life.
I elaborate
"Noel, you are coming with me and Megan, you and your Mom have something special you'll be doing at the Magic Kingdom, then we will all meet back at the hotel about 2pm."
"Okay?"
The girls, still holding each other reluctantly agree to separate for a few hours and go with their respective mothers. It was like a scene from Sophie's Choice with all the drama.
What are Louise and Megan doing? you may be wondering.
For them I have booked "Mickey's Magical Milestone Tour' and it starts from the MK City Hall at 9:00am. It's a 2 hour tour and they will be riding the train, learning to draw mickeys, having a private meet and greet and having some fun in Toontown. Then they are going to hang out at the MK for some Mother/Daughter fun.
For Noel and I, well it's something I am looking forward to and I know Noel will love it too.
"Dolphins in Depth" at EPCOT!!
our tour starts at 9:45am.
We have lots of time as it is only just after 8:00am now, so we check out the Concourse level an have a look in the shops. Soon it is time to say goodbye to the CR and each other and we catch the monorail.
Noel and I leave the train at the transportation and ticket centre to change to the EPCOT Monorail. We wave goodbye to Louise and Megan as they whiz off to MK via the hotels.
Noel and I follow the signs to the next train and I am getting lots of Birthday wishes because of my button.
Noel is a little put out, she did not get nearly as many on her BD and she tells me to take it off!
Not a chance, kiddo!
So she still doesn't know what we are doing this morning and I start giving her clues.
Me: 1) we will be getting wet
Noel Guesses: We are going waterskiing on the lake in Epcot
ME: 2) what lives in the ocean and starts with D?
Noel Guesses: Dudes!! (She is thinking of Turtle talk with Crush)
3) the tour name is D I D - can you guess?
Noel Guesses: Death in Disney, Disaster in Disney, Dying in Disney, Disney is Dumb?
Me: Dolphins, Noel. we are meeting Dolphins!
Noel: Oh, we are going to Discovery Cove??!??
Me: No, to the Seas at EPCOT, sheeeesh DID is Dolphins in Depth
Noel: but can we go to Discovery Cove later?
Me: No
We arrive at EPCOT and it is just about 9:00am so we check in for our tour at Guest Services and then get a drink and sit in the sunshine. What a gorgeous day it is, sunny and mild again. It is so strange to be without Louise and Megan, we have been together all week - nonstop. Noel says she misses Megan and wishes she was with us.
I am having a mother hen complex wondering about Louise and Megan and if they're okay, or lost. 
Time ticks on and at 9:30am the instructors from the Dolphin in Depth program arrive to say hello.
We have to sign releases, have our photo IDs checked (they make sure Noel is 13) and get name tags before coming backstage into the facility. During our walk backstage we are given all kinds of information about the size of the aquarium, how the salt water is made and filtered, the animals that live here etc... For instance, did you know the the EPCOT golfball could fit inside the aquarium and leave room to drive a truck around the sides? Something like 1500 olympic sized pools, crazy big.
We gather backstage and one by one the instructors introduce themselves and share their backgrounds and how they came to be working with the Dolphin program at The Seas. Really nice, down to earth ladies.
Then one by one we are asked to introduce ourselves to the group and explain why we booked this tour. There are only 8 of us. A Mom (in a wheel chair) with her 20-ish year old daughter, a husband and wife (her birthday as well), 2 girl friends in their mid 20s and Noel and I. Noel makes sure to mention it's her 'birthday week' and this is part of her present.
Finally we are let inside and are taken to the Dolphin area. There are 4 bottle nosed dolphins living at EPCOT, their names are Calvin, Ranier, Malabar and Thyber. We are taken to what is essentially their bedroom, a small pool area where they sleep at night and hang out until they are released in the large pool. There are 2 large square pools with 2 dolphins in each pool. We are on the side with Calvin & Rainer.
We watch them for a while and learn about thier anatomy, habits, food, history. The instructor is great, very friendly and fun. She holds up a plush toy dolphin and asks what it is? Everyone says 'it's a dolphin' and she says
"No, it's a toy from the gift shop - I can see you are not too bright a group' and rolls her eyes. LOL
We ask all kinds of questions and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. We see their food & toys and learn about their daily routine and relationships with each other. They are very sexual creatures and although they are all male they sometimes interact with each other. They are also trained to deliver sperm on demand, I didn't think that was such a big deal - most men are LOL
Soon we are taken into the main pool area for a tour of the facility and they show us where were will be entering the water to meet 2 the Dolphins up close and personal. We are shown a film on training techniques they use and how they have come such a long way with new technology.
Noel is excited that she will be going in the water but she whispers to me she doesn't have her bathing suit. I open my purse and she sees it tucked away inside. Amazing that I remembered to bring it considering how early we were out the door this morning.
Next we go back outside and to another area of the building and up an elevator, it is quite a maze of hallways and areas. There is high security, our guide/instructor has to swipe her card to get us into every single hallway, door, gate or elevator. We did quite a bit of walking and it was tough on the lady in the wheelchair, but her daughter and all of us helped when we could.
We are taken to a casual conference type room, wicker chairs around a large table, with a film screen, projectors, tv's, books, charts, maps, photos, animal skulls, all kinds of neat stuff to look at. There are also refreshments, soda, cofee, water etc... we all help ourselves to a drink and sit down for a presentation on dolphins in the wild and their interaction with man.
We see photos of injured dolphins that were hit by propellers and hear sad & tragic stories about dolphin deaths due to being caught up in fishing lines or being abused/harrassed by boaters, also enviornmental issues. We see pics of a lady who lost some fingers teasing wild dolphins with food out the side of a boat. Score one for the dolphins!
After the slideshow/presentation we are taken back the the dolphin bedroom/work area and watch them being worked with for object recognition.
They are doing a project for the Navy, they are being tested to see how they remember things - something to do with why they beach themselves for no apparent reason. Anyway, Calvin is being a wise guy and doesn't want to cooperate.
We are told to ignore him, turn away and not look at him. He sees no one is paying attention to him and has a little tantrum trying to get us to look at him again. Just like a kid
splashing and carrying on. Looking to see if we are looking.
After this we are taken to some really nice change room facilities, I am very impressed. We each are given a bag with our names on it, and inside it is our booties and wetsuit and we each have a key to a locker to lock away our personal items. We are instructed to remove all jewelry, hair clips, anything sharp.
Let me tell you, the 8 of us are all shapes and sizes, from tiny Noel to the lady in the wheelchair who is quite large. All of the wetsuits were the perfect size for each of us with no issues period. They just magically size you up when you are not looking and deliver the perfect suit to you in your bag.
We are all suited up and I have to tell you, the booties were so comfy, I would have liked a pair for the parks, they were spongy and when we walked outside back to the aquarium building my feet felt like a million bucks
We all looked wonderful (NOT) in our skin tight wetsuits LOL and we went back in to the main large pool and were instructed to walk down the metal ramp and into the water, which was quite chilly.
The water was about up to my waist, for Noel it was up to her chest. There was a bench under the water to sit on which brought the level up to Noel's neck lol.
Ranier and Calvin were released into the pool and did some jumps and tricks for us in response to their handlers signals.
Soon Calvin was very close to us and we came to meet him, stroking his body, he was so warm to the touch, just beautiful with a twinkle in his eye that he was trouble with a capital T. One by one we were each taught a signal to make Calvin do different things, my signal made him spin around in the water. Noel's made him speak in those little dolphins squeaky sounds, so cute. The other people had him jumping and waving his flippers and tail, it was a lot of fun we were all laughing.
We all were given a few minutes one on one with Calvin, and then some photos were taken. We were allowed one photo each, Noel asked me if she could have my spot so she could give Megan a photo. Sure I said, so Noel got 2 pics done of this pose.
Soon Ranier was over too, having a look at what we were doing. The trainer brough Ranier in close to us so we were able to stroke him and say hello. He was just as beautiful as Calvin. Everyone was in awe of these animals you could see people getting emotional as they touched them, it was really a dream come true for the lady in the wheelchair.
All too soon our encounter was over, and we were off to the change rooms to have hot showers. They have shampoo, conditioner, body wash, tons of towels. There were containers for us to leave our wet suits. They think of everything, it was very well done.
After we were dressed we were taken back up to the conference room and given a Tee Shirt each, our photo and a A Magical Moments Certificate.
Again Noel asked if I could get my Tee shirt in a childs size so Megan could have one. No problem, I'm not a tee shirt kinda girl anyway.
This tour was included as part of the platinum plan but I highly recommend it to everyone for a fun and educational few hours. I think it's around 150.00 pp normally but meeting and touching a dolphin is priceless. All proceeds from this tour go to the conservation fund to protect animals like the dolphin.
After we thanked and said good bye to our instructors we were escorted back to the entrance of the Park. It was 12:45pm so we went straight back to AKL for a rest and to meet up with Louise and Megan.
We discovered we were suddenly hungry so we stopped into Mara for a bite. I had the olive/chicken flatbread and Noel had pizza. Both of us had cherry coke and a cookie. At the register the girl said we also had sides so to take some chips or something...soooo much food. We didn't even open the chips and we saved the cookies for later.
Coming Up next, reunited with Louise and Megan and the best seat in the house at California Grill.
The first thing I tell them is that they will be splitting up from each other for a few hours.
"What?!?!" both girls say in unison
and then they clutch and hug each other like I just told them the world was ending and they had 15 minutes to live.
I explained to them that I had something booked for Noel and I to do, but it was only for ages 13 and up, so Megan (who is 12) wasn't allowed to do it.
'But why??' Noel whines, "Why can't Megan go too"
I just explained that.
She is not old enough.The girls are still clutching each other for dear life.
I elaborate
"Noel, you are coming with me and Megan, you and your Mom have something special you'll be doing at the Magic Kingdom, then we will all meet back at the hotel about 2pm."
"Okay?"
The girls, still holding each other reluctantly agree to separate for a few hours and go with their respective mothers. It was like a scene from Sophie's Choice with all the drama.
What are Louise and Megan doing? you may be wondering.
For them I have booked "Mickey's Magical Milestone Tour' and it starts from the MK City Hall at 9:00am. It's a 2 hour tour and they will be riding the train, learning to draw mickeys, having a private meet and greet and having some fun in Toontown. Then they are going to hang out at the MK for some Mother/Daughter fun.
For Noel and I, well it's something I am looking forward to and I know Noel will love it too.
"Dolphins in Depth" at EPCOT!!
our tour starts at 9:45am.We have lots of time as it is only just after 8:00am now, so we check out the Concourse level an have a look in the shops. Soon it is time to say goodbye to the CR and each other and we catch the monorail.
Noel and I leave the train at the transportation and ticket centre to change to the EPCOT Monorail. We wave goodbye to Louise and Megan as they whiz off to MK via the hotels.
Noel and I follow the signs to the next train and I am getting lots of Birthday wishes because of my button.
Noel is a little put out, she did not get nearly as many on her BD and she tells me to take it off! Not a chance, kiddo!
So she still doesn't know what we are doing this morning and I start giving her clues.
Me: 1) we will be getting wet
Noel Guesses: We are going waterskiing on the lake in Epcot
ME: 2) what lives in the ocean and starts with D?
Noel Guesses: Dudes!! (She is thinking of Turtle talk with Crush)
3) the tour name is D I D - can you guess?
Noel Guesses: Death in Disney, Disaster in Disney, Dying in Disney, Disney is Dumb?
Me: Dolphins, Noel. we are meeting Dolphins!
Noel: Oh, we are going to Discovery Cove??!??
Me: No, to the Seas at EPCOT, sheeeesh DID is Dolphins in Depth
Noel: but can we go to Discovery Cove later?
Me: No
We arrive at EPCOT and it is just about 9:00am so we check in for our tour at Guest Services and then get a drink and sit in the sunshine. What a gorgeous day it is, sunny and mild again. It is so strange to be without Louise and Megan, we have been together all week - nonstop. Noel says she misses Megan and wishes she was with us.
I am having a mother hen complex wondering about Louise and Megan and if they're okay, or lost. Time ticks on and at 9:30am the instructors from the Dolphin in Depth program arrive to say hello.
We have to sign releases, have our photo IDs checked (they make sure Noel is 13) and get name tags before coming backstage into the facility. During our walk backstage we are given all kinds of information about the size of the aquarium, how the salt water is made and filtered, the animals that live here etc... For instance, did you know the the EPCOT golfball could fit inside the aquarium and leave room to drive a truck around the sides? Something like 1500 olympic sized pools, crazy big.
We gather backstage and one by one the instructors introduce themselves and share their backgrounds and how they came to be working with the Dolphin program at The Seas. Really nice, down to earth ladies.
Then one by one we are asked to introduce ourselves to the group and explain why we booked this tour. There are only 8 of us. A Mom (in a wheel chair) with her 20-ish year old daughter, a husband and wife (her birthday as well), 2 girl friends in their mid 20s and Noel and I. Noel makes sure to mention it's her 'birthday week' and this is part of her present.
Finally we are let inside and are taken to the Dolphin area. There are 4 bottle nosed dolphins living at EPCOT, their names are Calvin, Ranier, Malabar and Thyber. We are taken to what is essentially their bedroom, a small pool area where they sleep at night and hang out until they are released in the large pool. There are 2 large square pools with 2 dolphins in each pool. We are on the side with Calvin & Rainer.
We watch them for a while and learn about thier anatomy, habits, food, history. The instructor is great, very friendly and fun. She holds up a plush toy dolphin and asks what it is? Everyone says 'it's a dolphin' and she says
"No, it's a toy from the gift shop - I can see you are not too bright a group' and rolls her eyes. LOL
We ask all kinds of questions and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. We see their food & toys and learn about their daily routine and relationships with each other. They are very sexual creatures and although they are all male they sometimes interact with each other. They are also trained to deliver sperm on demand, I didn't think that was such a big deal - most men are LOL
Soon we are taken into the main pool area for a tour of the facility and they show us where were will be entering the water to meet 2 the Dolphins up close and personal. We are shown a film on training techniques they use and how they have come such a long way with new technology.
Noel is excited that she will be going in the water but she whispers to me she doesn't have her bathing suit. I open my purse and she sees it tucked away inside.
Amazing that I remembered to bring it considering how early we were out the door this morning.Next we go back outside and to another area of the building and up an elevator, it is quite a maze of hallways and areas. There is high security, our guide/instructor has to swipe her card to get us into every single hallway, door, gate or elevator. We did quite a bit of walking and it was tough on the lady in the wheelchair, but her daughter and all of us helped when we could.
We are taken to a casual conference type room, wicker chairs around a large table, with a film screen, projectors, tv's, books, charts, maps, photos, animal skulls, all kinds of neat stuff to look at. There are also refreshments, soda, cofee, water etc... we all help ourselves to a drink and sit down for a presentation on dolphins in the wild and their interaction with man.
We see photos of injured dolphins that were hit by propellers and hear sad & tragic stories about dolphin deaths due to being caught up in fishing lines or being abused/harrassed by boaters, also enviornmental issues. We see pics of a lady who lost some fingers teasing wild dolphins with food out the side of a boat. Score one for the dolphins!
After the slideshow/presentation we are taken back the the dolphin bedroom/work area and watch them being worked with for object recognition.
They are doing a project for the Navy, they are being tested to see how they remember things - something to do with why they beach themselves for no apparent reason. Anyway, Calvin is being a wise guy and doesn't want to cooperate.
We are told to ignore him, turn away and not look at him. He sees no one is paying attention to him and has a little tantrum trying to get us to look at him again. Just like a kid
splashing and carrying on. Looking to see if we are looking.After this we are taken to some really nice change room facilities, I am very impressed. We each are given a bag with our names on it, and inside it is our booties and wetsuit and we each have a key to a locker to lock away our personal items. We are instructed to remove all jewelry, hair clips, anything sharp.
Let me tell you, the 8 of us are all shapes and sizes, from tiny Noel to the lady in the wheelchair who is quite large. All of the wetsuits were the perfect size for each of us with no issues period. They just magically size you up when you are not looking and deliver the perfect suit to you in your bag.
We are all suited up and I have to tell you, the booties were so comfy, I would have liked a pair for the parks, they were spongy and when we walked outside back to the aquarium building my feet felt like a million bucks
We all looked wonderful (NOT) in our skin tight wetsuits LOL and we went back in to the main large pool and were instructed to walk down the metal ramp and into the water, which was quite chilly.
The water was about up to my waist, for Noel it was up to her chest. There was a bench under the water to sit on which brought the level up to Noel's neck lol.
Ranier and Calvin were released into the pool and did some jumps and tricks for us in response to their handlers signals.
Soon Calvin was very close to us and we came to meet him, stroking his body, he was so warm to the touch, just beautiful with a twinkle in his eye that he was trouble with a capital T. One by one we were each taught a signal to make Calvin do different things, my signal made him spin around in the water. Noel's made him speak in those little dolphins squeaky sounds, so cute. The other people had him jumping and waving his flippers and tail, it was a lot of fun we were all laughing.
We all were given a few minutes one on one with Calvin, and then some photos were taken. We were allowed one photo each, Noel asked me if she could have my spot so she could give Megan a photo. Sure I said, so Noel got 2 pics done of this pose.
Soon Ranier was over too, having a look at what we were doing. The trainer brough Ranier in close to us so we were able to stroke him and say hello. He was just as beautiful as Calvin. Everyone was in awe of these animals you could see people getting emotional as they touched them, it was really a dream come true for the lady in the wheelchair.
All too soon our encounter was over, and we were off to the change rooms to have hot showers. They have shampoo, conditioner, body wash, tons of towels. There were containers for us to leave our wet suits. They think of everything, it was very well done.
After we were dressed we were taken back up to the conference room and given a Tee Shirt each, our photo and a A Magical Moments Certificate.
Again Noel asked if I could get my Tee shirt in a childs size so Megan could have one. No problem, I'm not a tee shirt kinda girl anyway.
This tour was included as part of the platinum plan but I highly recommend it to everyone for a fun and educational few hours. I think it's around 150.00 pp normally but meeting and touching a dolphin is priceless. All proceeds from this tour go to the conservation fund to protect animals like the dolphin.
After we thanked and said good bye to our instructors we were escorted back to the entrance of the Park. It was 12:45pm so we went straight back to AKL for a rest and to meet up with Louise and Megan.
We discovered we were suddenly hungry so we stopped into Mara for a bite. I had the olive/chicken flatbread and Noel had pizza. Both of us had cherry coke and a cookie. At the register the girl said we also had sides so to take some chips or something...soooo much food. We didn't even open the chips and we saved the cookies for later.
Coming Up next, reunited with Louise and Megan and the best seat in the house at California Grill.
mlill
Tagless since 2000!<br><font color="red">Tagless,
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What an awesome trip report!!! It sounds like you guys had a great time!!! My daughter, Brenna would love to do the Dolphins in Depth tour! I'll have to remember that for our next trip! 
WoW! I can't wait to read more!
Happy New Year!
-Michelle
WoW! I can't wait to read more!Happy New Year!
-Michelle
Blueyed Girl
HAKUNA MATATA!
- Joined
- Dec 3, 2006
- Messages
- 4,427
Oh my gosh, I have tears in my eyes after reading the dolphin story! This is one of my dreams!! I can not wait till I get to do this. Hopefully in the near future.
Thanks for sharing your TR. I am having a blast reading it. I already have so many idea's for our next trip.
Thanks for sharing your TR. I am having a blast reading it. I already have so many idea's for our next trip.
Cass
www.casshew.com
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 6,805
After Mara, Noel and I waddled up to the room to sit on the balcony to watch the animals on the savanna.
The mousekeeper knew it was someone's birthday and left a birthday cake towel animal on the bed. It had one of the girl's light up necklace around it and looked cool when we came into the darkened room.
Within a few minutes Louise and Megan came bursting into the room to tell us about their morning. They enjoyed the tour and the private meet and greet with Mickey at his house in Toontown. They were so happy to get a chance to ride the steam train because we didn't have time the other day when we were there.
Their tour had tons of trivia - did you know that originally Dopey was going to be used as the Sorcerer instead of Mickey?? Can you imagine a Fantasmic with Sorcerer Dopey? They also saw lots of Hidden Mickeys in the park and learned about one in the Ariel Grotto scene in Mickeys Philharmagic, which they also went to see. They had to draw a mickey, step by step on a moving train!
They were given really nice nametags, personalized Mouse Ears and said they enjoyed themselves.
After the tour they had lunch at Casey's and they tried to buy a snack at the main street bakery on their cards but were told (once again) the platinum plan doesn't include snacks. Disney really needs to get that sorted out.
Noel told megan all about the Dolphins and gave her the DID tee shirt & pic as a souvenier. The girls were happy to be together again, I have to say I am very proud of them both for how well they have gotten along, shared, and spent time together. It was nice to see - no arguments, just good times together and looking out for one another.
Well, I am suddenly weary again. Don't know why because I really didn't do much today but I contemplate the rest of our day and consider some changes.
We have a 5:30pm ADR for California Grill. I ate here 2 years ago on my 40th Birthday with SuAnne, Hayley & Noel. Our meal was excellent but we were not at a good table and the restaurant was so crowded and loud. The girls had not been on their best behavior and didn't even want to see the fireworks with SuAnne and I when we went outside to the viewing deck.
SuAnne and I, however, got all sappy and hugged and cried a little when watching WISHES on my 40th BD together.
So, now with my weariness setting in, did I really want to go to Contemporary again (we just had breakfast at Chef Mickeys this morning) and then to MVMCP or did I want to just go down to Boma here for a relaxing dinner and go over to MVMCP at 7pm.
I talked to Louise and she said it' was up to me, either way is fine with her.
I mulled it over and looked at the time. It was coming up for 4pm so I still have time to rest at AKL before leaving. Okay, I decided. California Grill it is, and everyone started to freshen up for dinner.
You probably noticed I'm more of a taxi girl than a bus girl.
I'm like this at home too. I figure time is money and why leave 90 minutes ahead to go to your meal by bus when you can leave 20 minutes ahead and cab it. Yes it costs more but it's an investment in some relaxation for the extra time you get at your resort and it takes the worry & stress out of wondering if you will be on time.
So after a little rest at AKL and a drink in the lounge we took another cab to the Contemporary. It was 5pm - about 10 1/2 hours since our last ride over there
We arrived at 5:10pm and took the escalator to check in at the desk. There was a man in front of me asking if he could have a window seat to see the fireworks at 6pm. The CM said she would see what she could do.
Then I checked in and the CM wished me a very Happy Birthday, gave me a buzzer thingy and told us to wait for the next elevator. We were all whisked up to the restaraunt and I recieved another Happy Birthday from the fellow in the elevator.
California Grill doesn't start seating people until 5:30pm so there were a few guests waiting but the tables were all still empty. The restaurant is just beautiful and with no one at the tables you can really appreciate that.
3 more CM's welcomed us and wished me a Happy Birthday, the manager came out and shook my hand, actually all of our hands (even the girls) and said hello. I told him that I had been here exactly 2 years ago for my 40th and he welcomed me back.
The sun was starting to set, it was gorgeous up there so I grabbed my camera and took this pic one of my favourite photos this whole trip.
We waited for a few minutes as the servers readied the tables.
One server went over to 'the table'
you know,
the-table-that-has-the-most-awesome-view-of-MK-that-everyone-wants" ?
yeah that table, and she sprinkled confetti all over it.
'That's your table' said Louise, 'she's getting it ready for you'
'No way' I said 'That would just be too much'
'It's yours, I tell ya' said Louise
A second later my coaster thingy started buzzing and we went over to the desk.
The manager smiled at me and said
'we have the best table in the house for you tonight, Happy Birthday' and he led us over to it.
I felt like crying, I really did, I was overwhelmed. It was the most beautiful view and I thanked him profusely, I was very touched.
Our table
Our waiter was Ron, he arrived with the menus and to take our drink order. what a character he is - and I don't mean goofy. He has his masters in History, he's an ex marine and a medic, a civil war buff and he dreams of running a horse farm in kentucky one day. He was great with the girls, tells them to go to college and never trust boys
Louise orders a Cosmopolitan, I order a margarita, the girls get coke and sprite. We start out with a plain cheese flatbread, because the girls don't like pesto or anything weird. Wowza, the flatbread was awesome and we enjoy it as the sun sets behind the Grand Floridian.
Ron is back to take our appetizer order. Louise & Megan ordered the caesar salads and I ordered the endive salad with candied pecans, goat cheese and pomegranite dressing. Holy cow, what a salad, it was terrific.
Our salads had just arrived when the restaurants lights dimmed and the fireworks began. It was the regular WISHES show, which we had not seen yet. The music was piped it and it could not have been better, the view of the fireworks is really special from here.
Megan was enjoying her salad so much, she wouldn't stop eating it to watch and we were teasing her. Turn around and watch, but she just kept eating. lol
Noel was busy drawing on the table cloth (paper) Hey, that's a picture of me !
After the fireworks we started eating in earnest and Ron came back with two complimentary glasses of wine for us. It was super sweet and bubbily like a dessert wine, I loved it.
At the next table to us, a proposal was occuring. The server brought out a domed platter and placed it in front of the girl. The fellow got down on one knee and the server lifted the dome. It was a plate with a ring box in the middle and written in chocolate was 'Will you marry me?'
Awwwwww.....
She said yes and they hugged and kissed. Louise started dinging her glass until the whole restaurant joined in and they had to kiss. We started to eat again but Louise said she couldn't eat until she saw the new 'rock' so she went over to the table and asked to see the ring
She called me over and we both gawked at the pretty square diamond. The server passed by and I asked for the same domed dish to come to my table.
Salads were cleared away, and on with the main course.
Megan had grilled plain chicken breast with roasted potatoes
Noel had Mac and cheese
Louise and I both had the oak fired fillet or whatever it's called.
The fillet was so tender it melted in your mouth and you didn't even need a knife to cut it. It was served with brocollini and a gratin' potato. Everything was delicious. All of us enjoyed our meals.
I had another Margarita after finishing my first one AND my wine AND Louise's wine because she thought it was too much with her Cosmo and I couldn't be rude to Ron, so I drank it too.
Ron arrived with desserts that we didn't even order. He just took it upon himself to bring us dessert. We were okay with it because we had to get over to MVMCP soon.
Birthday cake for me
Chocolate and raspberries and more chocolate for louise
Both the girls received sundaes.
the next little surprise was a gift from Ron, who said the manager told him to give it to me. It is a cast member frame, given to them by disney for good service. They had some extras and just decided to give me one. I will take a pic when I have a chance (it's still in the box) I was touched, a very nice thing for them to do.
On the way out the manager asked me if I liked the frame and I said 'of course!' and thanked him.
Well it was a great birthday dinner, I could not have asked for anything more. We all left full and happy and took the monorail over to MVMCP for some more fun.
Coming up next, our second WISHES of the day and to those following along, thanks for reading.
.
The mousekeeper knew it was someone's birthday and left a birthday cake towel animal on the bed. It had one of the girl's light up necklace around it and looked cool when we came into the darkened room.
Within a few minutes Louise and Megan came bursting into the room to tell us about their morning. They enjoyed the tour and the private meet and greet with Mickey at his house in Toontown. They were so happy to get a chance to ride the steam train because we didn't have time the other day when we were there.
Their tour had tons of trivia - did you know that originally Dopey was going to be used as the Sorcerer instead of Mickey?? Can you imagine a Fantasmic with Sorcerer Dopey? They also saw lots of Hidden Mickeys in the park and learned about one in the Ariel Grotto scene in Mickeys Philharmagic, which they also went to see. They had to draw a mickey, step by step on a moving train!
They were given really nice nametags, personalized Mouse Ears and said they enjoyed themselves.
After the tour they had lunch at Casey's and they tried to buy a snack at the main street bakery on their cards but were told (once again) the platinum plan doesn't include snacks. Disney really needs to get that sorted out.
Noel told megan all about the Dolphins and gave her the DID tee shirt & pic as a souvenier. The girls were happy to be together again, I have to say I am very proud of them both for how well they have gotten along, shared, and spent time together. It was nice to see - no arguments, just good times together and looking out for one another.
Well, I am suddenly weary again. Don't know why because I really didn't do much today but I contemplate the rest of our day and consider some changes.
We have a 5:30pm ADR for California Grill. I ate here 2 years ago on my 40th Birthday with SuAnne, Hayley & Noel. Our meal was excellent but we were not at a good table and the restaurant was so crowded and loud. The girls had not been on their best behavior and didn't even want to see the fireworks with SuAnne and I when we went outside to the viewing deck.
SuAnne and I, however, got all sappy and hugged and cried a little when watching WISHES on my 40th BD together.
So, now with my weariness setting in, did I really want to go to Contemporary again (we just had breakfast at Chef Mickeys this morning) and then to MVMCP or did I want to just go down to Boma here for a relaxing dinner and go over to MVMCP at 7pm.
I talked to Louise and she said it' was up to me, either way is fine with her.
I mulled it over and looked at the time. It was coming up for 4pm so I still have time to rest at AKL before leaving. Okay, I decided. California Grill it is, and everyone started to freshen up for dinner.
You probably noticed I'm more of a taxi girl than a bus girl.
I'm like this at home too. I figure time is money and why leave 90 minutes ahead to go to your meal by bus when you can leave 20 minutes ahead and cab it. Yes it costs more but it's an investment in some relaxation for the extra time you get at your resort and it takes the worry & stress out of wondering if you will be on time.
So after a little rest at AKL and a drink in the lounge we took another cab to the Contemporary. It was 5pm - about 10 1/2 hours since our last ride over there
We arrived at 5:10pm and took the escalator to check in at the desk. There was a man in front of me asking if he could have a window seat to see the fireworks at 6pm. The CM said she would see what she could do.
Then I checked in and the CM wished me a very Happy Birthday, gave me a buzzer thingy and told us to wait for the next elevator. We were all whisked up to the restaraunt and I recieved another Happy Birthday from the fellow in the elevator.
California Grill doesn't start seating people until 5:30pm so there were a few guests waiting but the tables were all still empty. The restaurant is just beautiful and with no one at the tables you can really appreciate that.
3 more CM's welcomed us and wished me a Happy Birthday, the manager came out and shook my hand, actually all of our hands (even the girls) and said hello. I told him that I had been here exactly 2 years ago for my 40th and he welcomed me back.
The sun was starting to set, it was gorgeous up there so I grabbed my camera and took this pic
one of my favourite photos this whole trip.
We waited for a few minutes as the servers readied the tables.
One server went over to 'the table'
you know,
the-table-that-has-the-most-awesome-view-of-MK-that-everyone-wants" ?
yeah that table, and she sprinkled confetti all over it.
'That's your table' said Louise, 'she's getting it ready for you'
'No way' I said 'That would just be too much'
'It's yours, I tell ya' said Louise
A second later my coaster thingy started buzzing and we went over to the desk.
The manager smiled at me and said
'we have the best table in the house for you tonight, Happy Birthday' and he led us over to it.
I felt like crying, I really did, I was overwhelmed. It was the most beautiful view and I thanked him profusely, I was very touched.
Our table
Our waiter was Ron, he arrived with the menus and to take our drink order. what a character he is - and I don't mean goofy. He has his masters in History, he's an ex marine and a medic, a civil war buff and he dreams of running a horse farm in kentucky one day. He was great with the girls, tells them to go to college and never trust boys
Louise orders a Cosmopolitan, I order a margarita, the girls get coke and sprite. We start out with a plain cheese flatbread, because the girls don't like pesto or anything weird. Wowza, the flatbread was awesome and we enjoy it as the sun sets behind the Grand Floridian.
Ron is back to take our appetizer order. Louise & Megan ordered the caesar salads and I ordered the endive salad with candied pecans, goat cheese and pomegranite dressing. Holy cow, what a salad, it was terrific.
Our salads had just arrived when the restaurants lights dimmed and the fireworks began. It was the regular WISHES show, which we had not seen yet. The music was piped it and it could not have been better, the view of the fireworks is really special from here.
Megan was enjoying her salad so much, she wouldn't stop eating it to watch and we were teasing her. Turn around and watch, but she just kept eating. lol
Noel was busy drawing on the table cloth (paper) Hey, that's a picture of me !
After the fireworks we started eating in earnest and Ron came back with two complimentary glasses of wine for us. It was super sweet and bubbily like a dessert wine, I loved it.
At the next table to us, a proposal was occuring. The server brought out a domed platter and placed it in front of the girl. The fellow got down on one knee and the server lifted the dome. It was a plate with a ring box in the middle and written in chocolate was 'Will you marry me?'
Awwwwww.....
She said yes and they hugged and kissed. Louise started dinging her glass until the whole restaurant joined in and they had to kiss. We started to eat again but Louise said she couldn't eat until she saw the new 'rock' so she went over to the table and asked to see the ring
She called me over and we both gawked at the pretty square diamond. The server passed by and I asked for the same domed dish to come to my table.
Salads were cleared away, and on with the main course.
Megan had grilled plain chicken breast with roasted potatoes
Noel had Mac and cheese
Louise and I both had the oak fired fillet or whatever it's called.
The fillet was so tender it melted in your mouth and you didn't even need a knife to cut it. It was served with brocollini and a gratin' potato. Everything was delicious. All of us enjoyed our meals.
I had another Margarita after finishing my first one AND my wine AND Louise's wine because she thought it was too much with her Cosmo and I couldn't be rude to Ron, so I drank it too.
Ron arrived with desserts that we didn't even order. He just took it upon himself to bring us dessert. We were okay with it because we had to get over to MVMCP soon.
Birthday cake for me
Chocolate and raspberries and more chocolate for louise
Both the girls received sundaes.
the next little surprise was a gift from Ron, who said the manager told him to give it to me. It is a cast member frame, given to them by disney for good service. They had some extras and just decided to give me one. I will take a pic when I have a chance (it's still in the box) I was touched, a very nice thing for them to do.
On the way out the manager asked me if I liked the frame and I said 'of course!' and thanked him.
Well it was a great birthday dinner, I could not have asked for anything more. We all left full and happy and took the monorail over to MVMCP for some more fun.
Coming up next, our second WISHES of the day and to those following along, thanks for reading.
.
Not that our trip 2 years ago wasn't great, but this sounds awesome.
Cass
www.casshew.com
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 6,805
SuAnne said:Now... do I sense some "commandoism" from you my girl?
Yes! I was like a whole new person when I was responsible for the touring plans of others. Don't worry, I'll go back to my lazya$$ self when I travel with you again
Quacktatty
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 28, 2006
- Messages
- 1,311
I want to go on vacation with you!!!!!!!
Cass
www.casshew.com
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 6,805
So we left the beautiful California Grill and took the elevator down to the monorail.
As you may recall, I was having some trouble with sore feet and blisters this trip, well I can tell you that after two margaritas and two glasses of sweet bubbily wine, I couldn't even FEEL MY FEET.
I felt no pain, anywhere and even suggested walking over to MK from CR to which my travelling companions said 'shut up and get on the train'
Dinner had taken a fair bit of time and it was past 8pm when we arrived for MVMCP. In fact, the streets were all clear because the first parade was coming through
Perfect timing for us, so we went up the stairs on top of the train station and had an awesome view.
The crowds were much lighter tonight then the Dec 15th party and I didn't have any particular itinerary, so I asked Louise & Megan if there was anything they really wanted to do.
'What about those cars we saw?' asked Louise
'Cars?' I repeat
'Yeah, those little cars you drive around the track, we saw them the other day'
'oh, those cars'
(The smelly, low tech, noisy cars of the past that is pretty well the worst attraction next to stitch's escape?)
'Yep, those cars'
So off we went to tomorrowland and as we passed by the cookie and hot chocolate station, I had an idea.
'How about we get our cookies and HC and take a quick ride on the TTA?'
Well Megan and Louise didn't know what the heck the TTA was - but Noel did and was all for it
So with our yummy treats in hand we boarded the TTA for a spin around Tomorrowland, and then another and then another - 3 times round because it is so nice at night. We all loved it.
During our 3 ride round, Holiday WISHES started exploding inthe sky, very cool, we had a great view of it. As we left the TTA WISHES was still going on and we watched it as we lined up for our ride at tomorrowland speedway.
The 4 of us stood there together, inhaling diesel fumes & exhaust and watching the show tears came to my eyes (but it was just the carbon monoxide) I secretly wondered if we would all explode if a spark came down.
So as you have probably guessed, I pretty well hate this ride, I'm just doing it for Louise. We get in our cars and putt putt around the track, once we got going and got a bit of a breeze to take away the fumes it was rather enjoyable. Certainly better than on a hot August day at 1pm with the heat shimmering off the pavement.
Afterwards we walked into Fantasyland and Noel and Megan did the teacups while Louise went for a smoke somewhere. I was all alone when 2 cast members approached me.
They had red noses and antlers and asked if I was interested in becoming an honourary reindeer. Sure, why not, it's my birthday afterall.
CM #1 - raise your hoof and repeat after me
I honourary Reindeer
Me: I honourary Reindeer
Promise to be a good reindeer
Me: Promise to be a good reindeer
and to pull Santa's reindeers
Me: and to pull Santa's.......................sleigh?
Oooops - I mean to pull Santa's sleigh
Me: to pull Santa's sleigh
Whenever he asks
Me: Whenever he asks
and to play nicely at the reindeer games
Me: and to play nicely at the reindeer games
Congratulations
Me: Congratulations
No, you don't have to say that
Me: No you don't have to say that
Now make your antlers as a sign of acceptance
Me: Now make your antlers as a sign of acceptance
Stop repeating me, we're done -you're a reindeer
Me: Stop repeating me, we're done -you're a reindeer
Stop that
Me: Stop that
The exasperated CM then gave me two stickers for my trouble. I was hoping for a $14,000.00 Disney Cruise or a Castle stay but I'm not complaining because it was fun.
I looked around for my party, no Louise but the girls were back at the sword and stone trying desperately to pull it out. Noel was obsessed with this thing and every time she had a moment in fantasyland she was back at it again. If I ever had the choice of a wish for my DD, I would have her be the one to take that sword out.
Louise was back and the girls wanted to do the carousel, just then I spotted the reindeer CM's and said - first you have to go become reindeers. So I took them over and the two CM's were like (OMG not that repeating lady again)
I asked them to officiate Louise, Megan & Noel as honourary reindeers and stood back to watch.
Now we all had stickers and Megan & Noel did the carousel. While they were doing that I called home to check in on things and Paul told me that one of our employees son 15 years old, had been jumped by a gang after school and stabbed. He was in the hospital and his parents, of course were freaking out.
I felt like the world was spinning, I was standing here with carousel music and christmas lights, people in crazy hats holding hands with their kids, smiles and laughter and in my ear this phonecall giving me this dose of reality. I actually had to sit down for a few minutes to collect myself. Disney really is an escape from the 'real' world, sometimes I wish I could stay there forever.
The girls were back and we did some more things, saw Belle in her Christmas dress, she was so beautiful. This was our last night, our last time to MK, it was getting a little bittersweet for me. I suggested Louise and Megan do IASM together one last time and off they went. Noel and I just sat and people watched, so many little princesses wandering around in gowns tonight.
It was about 11pm now, and we could have went over to Frontierland or Aventureland, but we decided just to have one more stroll down main street and head for home.
Our flight tomorrow is not until 8pm, I have plans for a breakfast at Boma - finally! Some shopping at Down Town Disney and Tea and the Grand Floridian, it doesn't actually work out this way - but we do become our very own Dream Team.
and someone calls me "Sir"
.
As you may recall, I was having some trouble with sore feet and blisters this trip, well I can tell you that after two margaritas and two glasses of sweet bubbily wine, I couldn't even FEEL MY FEET.
I felt no pain, anywhere and even suggested walking over to MK from CR to which my travelling companions said 'shut up and get on the train'
Dinner had taken a fair bit of time and it was past 8pm when we arrived for MVMCP. In fact, the streets were all clear because the first parade was coming through
Perfect timing for us, so we went up the stairs on top of the train station and had an awesome view.
The crowds were much lighter tonight then the Dec 15th party and I didn't have any particular itinerary, so I asked Louise & Megan if there was anything they really wanted to do.
'What about those cars we saw?' asked Louise
'Cars?' I repeat
'Yeah, those little cars you drive around the track, we saw them the other day'
'oh, those cars'
(The smelly, low tech, noisy cars of the past that is pretty well the worst attraction next to stitch's escape?)
'Yep, those cars'
So off we went to tomorrowland and as we passed by the cookie and hot chocolate station, I had an idea.
'How about we get our cookies and HC and take a quick ride on the TTA?'
Well Megan and Louise didn't know what the heck the TTA was - but Noel did and was all for it
So with our yummy treats in hand we boarded the TTA for a spin around Tomorrowland, and then another and then another - 3 times round because it is so nice at night. We all loved it.
During our 3 ride round, Holiday WISHES started exploding inthe sky, very cool, we had a great view of it. As we left the TTA WISHES was still going on and we watched it as we lined up for our ride at tomorrowland speedway.
The 4 of us stood there together, inhaling diesel fumes & exhaust and watching the show
tears came to my eyes (but it was just the carbon monoxide) I secretly wondered if we would all explode if a spark came down.So as you have probably guessed, I pretty well hate this ride, I'm just doing it for Louise. We get in our cars and putt putt around the track, once we got going and got a bit of a breeze to take away the fumes it was rather enjoyable. Certainly better than on a hot August day at 1pm with the heat shimmering off the pavement.
Afterwards we walked into Fantasyland and Noel and Megan did the teacups while Louise went for a smoke somewhere. I was all alone when 2 cast members approached me.
They had red noses and antlers and asked if I was interested in becoming an honourary reindeer. Sure, why not, it's my birthday afterall.
CM #1 - raise your hoof and repeat after me
I honourary Reindeer
Me: I honourary Reindeer
Promise to be a good reindeer
Me: Promise to be a good reindeer
and to pull Santa's reindeers
Me: and to pull Santa's.......................sleigh?
Oooops - I mean to pull Santa's sleigh
Me: to pull Santa's sleigh
Whenever he asks
Me: Whenever he asks
and to play nicely at the reindeer games
Me: and to play nicely at the reindeer games
Congratulations
Me: Congratulations
No, you don't have to say that
Me: No you don't have to say that
Now make your antlers as a sign of acceptance
Me: Now make your antlers as a sign of acceptance
Stop repeating me, we're done -you're a reindeer
Me: Stop repeating me, we're done -you're a reindeer
Stop that
Me: Stop that
The exasperated CM then gave me two stickers for my trouble. I was hoping for a $14,000.00 Disney Cruise or a Castle stay but I'm not complaining because it was fun.
I looked around for my party, no Louise but the girls were back at the sword and stone trying desperately to pull it out. Noel was obsessed with this thing and every time she had a moment in fantasyland she was back at it again. If I ever had the choice of a wish for my DD, I would have her be the one to take that sword out.
Louise was back and the girls wanted to do the carousel, just then I spotted the reindeer CM's and said - first you have to go become reindeers. So I took them over and the two CM's were like (OMG not that repeating lady again)
I asked them to officiate Louise, Megan & Noel as honourary reindeers and stood back to watch.
Now we all had stickers and Megan & Noel did the carousel. While they were doing that I called home to check in on things and Paul told me that one of our employees son 15 years old, had been jumped by a gang after school and stabbed. He was in the hospital and his parents, of course were freaking out.
I felt like the world was spinning, I was standing here with carousel music and christmas lights, people in crazy hats holding hands with their kids, smiles and laughter and in my ear this phonecall giving me this dose of reality. I actually had to sit down for a few minutes to collect myself. Disney really is an escape from the 'real' world, sometimes I wish I could stay there forever.
The girls were back and we did some more things, saw Belle in her Christmas dress, she was so beautiful. This was our last night, our last time to MK, it was getting a little bittersweet for me. I suggested Louise and Megan do IASM together one last time and off they went. Noel and I just sat and people watched, so many little princesses wandering around in gowns tonight.
It was about 11pm now, and we could have went over to Frontierland or Aventureland, but we decided just to have one more stroll down main street and head for home.
Our flight tomorrow is not until 8pm, I have plans for a breakfast at Boma - finally! Some shopping at Down Town Disney and Tea and the Grand Floridian, it doesn't actually work out this way - but we do become our very own Dream Team.
and someone calls me "Sir" .
Cass
www.casshew.com
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 6,805
He's okay and out of the hospital but did not return to school. His mother will NOT send him back there. The police are investigating the whole thing and they are trying to find a new school to put him in.
The gang that attacked him all wear blue and he was wearing a red jacket and hat - apparently the rival gang wears red so they thought he was a member. The boy goes to a Catholic School and the gang was from a public school, they were all underaged and can't be charged with anything serious.
It's a real mess and runined this family's Christmas although they feel lucky he was okay.
Thanks for asking, it really threw me for a loop. I don't know what I would do if something like this happened to Noel. She goes to a private school and only had 13 kids in her class.
The gang that attacked him all wear blue and he was wearing a red jacket and hat - apparently the rival gang wears red so they thought he was a member. The boy goes to a Catholic School and the gang was from a public school, they were all underaged and can't be charged with anything serious.
It's a real mess and runined this family's Christmas although they feel lucky he was okay.
Thanks for asking, it really threw me for a loop. I don't know what I would do if something like this happened to Noel. She goes to a private school and only had 13 kids in her class.
brookelizabeth
Jambo Wildbunch Gang
- Joined
- Jul 20, 2006
- Messages
- 11,271
WOW CASS!
What an amazing trip!!!
What an amazing trip!!!
brookelizabeth
Jambo Wildbunch Gang
- Joined
- Jul 20, 2006
- Messages
- 11,271
So glad to hear the boy is okay too...I can't even fathom how scary that would be.
disneytraveler
<font color=purple>will the real celeb please step
- Joined
- Feb 6, 2005
- Messages
- 3,983
Wow the pictures of the parade are wonderful! I really like the Party and the soliders are terrific.
I had to laugh when you were sworn in as a reindeer repeating what the Cm said .
I had to laugh when you were sworn in as a reindeer repeating what the Cm said .
Leslieann1024
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Aug 22, 2006
- Messages
- 224
Okay, Cass . . . . are you coming over to clean up the Cabernet Sauvignon that I just spit all over my monitor ?!?!?!?!
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