The Fixer and The Cookmaster:major pixie dust*IT'S FINISHED*EPILOGUE UP!!#389
- Thread starter jamal
- Start date
Katy Belle
DIS Veteran
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- Jan 20, 2004
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It's Saturday here Jamal!!!! Dinner time! I could use some positive energy after this extremely busy weekend I've just finished! I look forward to your next post, even if its morning for me.
Katy
Katy
jamal
<font color=blue>Nutwing #4<br><font color=deeppin
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I'm so sorry Katy. You are a loyal fan. I was so sad about THE trip report (Mel's) ending yesterday I was too upset to post. That said, I will be ready to tell you more about our adventures later today or tonight (might be Monday for our middle eastern readers!). Disney has more in store for The Fixers!
Off to church and such, then back to Dis,
Jami
Off to church and such, then back to Dis,
Jami
horsegirl
<font color=red>I feel blonder than a cocker spani
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Dearest Jamal! Your heart is like mine! I would have felt the same about those parents interested in meeting their own needs on their first trip.
I am so sorry your friends had to leave! Cannot wait for you to continue! Carry on brave soldier....
I am awaiting your next installment!
I am so sorry your friends had to leave! Cannot wait for you to continue! Carry on brave soldier....
I am awaiting your next installment!
Katy Belle
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 20, 2004
- Messages
- 4,013
Hey Jami, what is your report doing over here on pg 2????
I'm bumping you back to page 1!!
Katy
I'm bumping you back to page 1!!
Katy
jamal
<font color=blue>Nutwing #4<br><font color=deeppin
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2003
- Messages
- 1,552
Part 15, still day 7
I am so sorry I am so slow to post between installments. I know this is true of every last one of you, but I have to squeeze in the trip report when real life gives me more than 5 minutes. I really do think about you reading and waiting and will continue to post these little tales. I have so much more to tell you and I want to give details!
Onward:
The CookMaster and I, fresh from our encounter with the suffragette sisters, scurried back to Tomorrowland with Ethan and Sallies new monogrammed ears. Cledus and co. were patiently waiting for us. We had a few more minutes and the boys wanted to try to squeeze in a ride on Goofys Barnstormer. The Gatelatches had not ridden it on their previous trip, so off we went (Tick tock; tick tock. The Airport!! Pay attention!).
For some reason, my boys really like the ole Barnstormer. I mean, I understand DS6 enjoying it as it is geared to his age. I think DS12 just wants to experience any ride that has a coaster track. Shrek took a fastpass on the Barnstormer but we talked Cledus into getting in line. We had warned the Gatelatches about the length of the Barnstormer. Honestly, can you even say the word three times fast before its over? I call it a two-yawn neck-jerk. The only pleasing aspect for me is hearing my boys laugh around that track.
As we neared the final boarding area, Cledus started making noises about waiting for us with Shrek. The CookMaster told him to GET ON so he stepped right into the little plane then walked right through and kept walking. No flight through the barn for the CarpetMaster. Sneaky and smart, that one.
Wow that was quick. 46 seconds from takeoff to landing.
It was time to eat the Gatelatches remaining 100,000 counter service meals for lunch. We tried, we really did, but the Fixers just werent hungry yet! The CookMaster gave me her Key to the World for us to eat their remaining meals later that day. That CookMaster is so generous, and Cledus could breathe again with the knowledge that he had not paid for unconsumed food.
I know I have posted this poor misguided soul before, but I have saved one of the pictures we took. We did, in fact, see her on this day, on our way to Cosmic Rays for the Last Lunch. I posted the other pic earlier to explain the Inappropriate Dress Tally. So, stop reading now if you think me a false-out-of-order-poster. Im not getting paid for this. Im no John Rosemond.
When we saw her, C helped me take pictures. We were laughing so hard and I didnt want her to know we were taking her picture. So, be careful, people. If people are laughing with cameras in front of their faces, they just might be laughing and snapping at y-o-u. Thats why its blurry. Laughing and being sneaky will do that to an image. Anyway, I told C to pose as if I were taking his picture. He complied, several times in fact. So I saved this one for you now because it included my laugh with my friend C and this gals shoes.:
We hated to let the Gatelatches go. We had so much fun together! All eight of us have said, during and since the trip, that our families are terrific traveling partners. We understood our vacation needs and goals, thoroughly enjoyed each others company, laughed until our sides hurt every day, watched our children SHARE magic (!!!), and appreciated our oh-so-similar parenting philosophies. Cledus and Shrek had a great time together and even needed to go back to the Poly for naps at the same time each day. We realize this time was a gift. We know we are blessed to have happy marriages, healthy children, the means to travel, kind boys, and excellent friendships. Were ready to do it again!
We were bummed but managed to have more adventure in the MK after the Gatelatches left. Actually, I am not sure what we did for the next hour or so b/c I didnt even write it down! I must have been in mourning. Maybe we shopped. That must be it because I know I felt better later. I do know we made our way to Pecos Bills and used the last of the Gatelatches counter service credits. Let me tell you, though, that place was s-l-o-w! It was also hot and crowded so the boys secured a table while I waited for food. Of course, it took forever for me to find them; then we shared our lunch with some greedy ducks AND the rudest child I have ever heard! I mean, this kid fouled the lunchtime air! We could not believe the way this boy, age 7 or so, was talking to his parents. He called them stup*d, complained about the day, etc. We would have moved if there had been another table. I was not as eager to rescue him as I was the little girls with the restaurant-connoisseur parents earlier in the day. This kid needed a whos-in-charge check, and fast.
After Pecos Bills we headed back to the Poly where all three boys fell fast asleep. I couldnt let A sleep long, though, for the two of us had an appointment with a Cast Member at MGM!
When we went to Disney last year with two other families, we had the pleasure of meeting a Cast Member who is in Guest services management. He grew up with one of our traveling friends and their families have stayed in touch (note: they are from Kentucky, so they might be related. Oooh my friend is gonna be mad when she sees that!!!!). Well, she emailed him (remember, last trip, before you all had to read my Dis-drivel) and he agreed to join our party of 14 at California Grill one fine May evening.
Thomas is a wonderful guy. He oozes pixie dust and passion for his role as a cast member. He has worked his way up in the company from bartender at Pleasure Island to his mgmt position today. He clearly loves his job and was eager to let us ask questions all night. He was also very interested in our opinions of the resort and wanted to know all about our resorts (the families were staying at 3 different resorts), the Dining Plan, and new attractions like Mickeys PhilHarmagic. We had a delightful, memorable evening atop the CR in my favorite restaurant.
Fast forward to this March. My friend was kind enough (this was before I made the KY comment) to email Thomas for us before our trip with the Gatelatches. He and I emailed, traded cell phone numbers, and planned to meet over the course of our trip. It finally happened this day. My A was especially anxious to talk to him as he has his sights set on a Disney career.
Thomas office is at MGM park. In fact, many of the execs have moved into the former animators area behind Playhouse Disney. That is sad, I think, as it makes me pine for the day Disney animators actually created films there as we enjoyed the park.
We met for a Coke at the ABC Commissary. Thomas was so friendly and helpful. He asked us if we had ridden EE at AK; we reported how much we loved it. I spent much of our time gushing over the incredible experiences provided by cast members during our stay. He was bug-eyed over our itinerary and the spreadsheet I had emailed him. He listened to Andrew and encouraged him to keep drawing, do well in school (thanks!) and consider the summer intern program in college. He talked about the work of the imagineers and how story is the major component of every attraction. We had a delightful 30 minutes together before he had to get back to work. We so appreciated his time and let him know our family never tired of a Disney vacation.
A was more motivated than ever after our meeting. We had some time before we needed to get back to E and Shrek, so we decided to hit some of the MGM shops. A had been eyeing Goofy statues and animator sketches, so I told him we could look around. We ducked into that little bookstore/coffee shop behind Sci-Fi restaurant. He grabbed a seat and was immediately immersed in The Imagineering Way. I have always told him I would buy any books he wanted to read, so I told him to get it! He spent his cash on some Mickey bookends for his room. Here he is with his nose in the book as we waited for the bus back to the Poly:
Up next: The Fixer immortalized, Princesses, and my favorite Wishes spot.
I am so sorry I am so slow to post between installments. I know this is true of every last one of you, but I have to squeeze in the trip report when real life gives me more than 5 minutes. I really do think about you reading and waiting and will continue to post these little tales. I have so much more to tell you and I want to give details!
Onward:
The CookMaster and I, fresh from our encounter with the suffragette sisters, scurried back to Tomorrowland with Ethan and Sallies new monogrammed ears. Cledus and co. were patiently waiting for us. We had a few more minutes and the boys wanted to try to squeeze in a ride on Goofys Barnstormer. The Gatelatches had not ridden it on their previous trip, so off we went (Tick tock; tick tock. The Airport!! Pay attention!).
For some reason, my boys really like the ole Barnstormer. I mean, I understand DS6 enjoying it as it is geared to his age. I think DS12 just wants to experience any ride that has a coaster track. Shrek took a fastpass on the Barnstormer but we talked Cledus into getting in line. We had warned the Gatelatches about the length of the Barnstormer. Honestly, can you even say the word three times fast before its over? I call it a two-yawn neck-jerk. The only pleasing aspect for me is hearing my boys laugh around that track.
As we neared the final boarding area, Cledus started making noises about waiting for us with Shrek. The CookMaster told him to GET ON so he stepped right into the little plane then walked right through and kept walking. No flight through the barn for the CarpetMaster. Sneaky and smart, that one.
Wow that was quick. 46 seconds from takeoff to landing.
It was time to eat the Gatelatches remaining 100,000 counter service meals for lunch. We tried, we really did, but the Fixers just werent hungry yet! The CookMaster gave me her Key to the World for us to eat their remaining meals later that day. That CookMaster is so generous, and Cledus could breathe again with the knowledge that he had not paid for unconsumed food.
I know I have posted this poor misguided soul before, but I have saved one of the pictures we took. We did, in fact, see her on this day, on our way to Cosmic Rays for the Last Lunch. I posted the other pic earlier to explain the Inappropriate Dress Tally. So, stop reading now if you think me a false-out-of-order-poster. Im not getting paid for this. Im no John Rosemond.
When we saw her, C helped me take pictures. We were laughing so hard and I didnt want her to know we were taking her picture. So, be careful, people. If people are laughing with cameras in front of their faces, they just might be laughing and snapping at y-o-u. Thats why its blurry. Laughing and being sneaky will do that to an image. Anyway, I told C to pose as if I were taking his picture. He complied, several times in fact. So I saved this one for you now because it included my laugh with my friend C and this gals shoes.:
We hated to let the Gatelatches go. We had so much fun together! All eight of us have said, during and since the trip, that our families are terrific traveling partners. We understood our vacation needs and goals, thoroughly enjoyed each others company, laughed until our sides hurt every day, watched our children SHARE magic (!!!), and appreciated our oh-so-similar parenting philosophies. Cledus and Shrek had a great time together and even needed to go back to the Poly for naps at the same time each day. We realize this time was a gift. We know we are blessed to have happy marriages, healthy children, the means to travel, kind boys, and excellent friendships. Were ready to do it again!
We were bummed but managed to have more adventure in the MK after the Gatelatches left. Actually, I am not sure what we did for the next hour or so b/c I didnt even write it down! I must have been in mourning. Maybe we shopped. That must be it because I know I felt better later. I do know we made our way to Pecos Bills and used the last of the Gatelatches counter service credits. Let me tell you, though, that place was s-l-o-w! It was also hot and crowded so the boys secured a table while I waited for food. Of course, it took forever for me to find them; then we shared our lunch with some greedy ducks AND the rudest child I have ever heard! I mean, this kid fouled the lunchtime air! We could not believe the way this boy, age 7 or so, was talking to his parents. He called them stup*d, complained about the day, etc. We would have moved if there had been another table. I was not as eager to rescue him as I was the little girls with the restaurant-connoisseur parents earlier in the day. This kid needed a whos-in-charge check, and fast.
After Pecos Bills we headed back to the Poly where all three boys fell fast asleep. I couldnt let A sleep long, though, for the two of us had an appointment with a Cast Member at MGM!
When we went to Disney last year with two other families, we had the pleasure of meeting a Cast Member who is in Guest services management. He grew up with one of our traveling friends and their families have stayed in touch (note: they are from Kentucky, so they might be related. Oooh my friend is gonna be mad when she sees that!!!!). Well, she emailed him (remember, last trip, before you all had to read my Dis-drivel) and he agreed to join our party of 14 at California Grill one fine May evening.
Thomas is a wonderful guy. He oozes pixie dust and passion for his role as a cast member. He has worked his way up in the company from bartender at Pleasure Island to his mgmt position today. He clearly loves his job and was eager to let us ask questions all night. He was also very interested in our opinions of the resort and wanted to know all about our resorts (the families were staying at 3 different resorts), the Dining Plan, and new attractions like Mickeys PhilHarmagic. We had a delightful, memorable evening atop the CR in my favorite restaurant.
Fast forward to this March. My friend was kind enough (this was before I made the KY comment) to email Thomas for us before our trip with the Gatelatches. He and I emailed, traded cell phone numbers, and planned to meet over the course of our trip. It finally happened this day. My A was especially anxious to talk to him as he has his sights set on a Disney career.
Thomas office is at MGM park. In fact, many of the execs have moved into the former animators area behind Playhouse Disney. That is sad, I think, as it makes me pine for the day Disney animators actually created films there as we enjoyed the park.
We met for a Coke at the ABC Commissary. Thomas was so friendly and helpful. He asked us if we had ridden EE at AK; we reported how much we loved it. I spent much of our time gushing over the incredible experiences provided by cast members during our stay. He was bug-eyed over our itinerary and the spreadsheet I had emailed him. He listened to Andrew and encouraged him to keep drawing, do well in school (thanks!) and consider the summer intern program in college. He talked about the work of the imagineers and how story is the major component of every attraction. We had a delightful 30 minutes together before he had to get back to work. We so appreciated his time and let him know our family never tired of a Disney vacation.
A was more motivated than ever after our meeting. We had some time before we needed to get back to E and Shrek, so we decided to hit some of the MGM shops. A had been eyeing Goofy statues and animator sketches, so I told him we could look around. We ducked into that little bookstore/coffee shop behind Sci-Fi restaurant. He grabbed a seat and was immediately immersed in The Imagineering Way. I have always told him I would buy any books he wanted to read, so I told him to get it! He spent his cash on some Mickey bookends for his room. Here he is with his nose in the book as we waited for the bus back to the Poly:
Up next: The Fixer immortalized, Princesses, and my favorite Wishes spot.
J and R's mom
DIS Veteran
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- Apr 13, 2005
- Messages
- 1,664
Katy Belle
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 20, 2004
- Messages
- 4,013
Thank you Jami!!!! Loved it. So sad that your friends had to fly home without you. So great that you have such a compatable family to travel with.
Looking forward to the next installment. Thanks for taking the time to share with all of us.
Katy
Looking forward to the next installment. Thanks for taking the time to share with all of us.
Katy
Beana9802
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 25, 2006
- Messages
- 1,407
jamal said:Part 15, still day 7
I have always told him I would buy any books he wanted to read, so I told him to get it! He spent his cash on some Mickey bookends for his room. Here he is with his nose in the book as we waited for the bus back to the Poly:
Up next: The Fixer immortalized, Princesses, and my favorite Wishes spot.
As a teacher, thank you. We need more parents out there like you.
Grammyof2
<font color=deeppink>Best Woo Hootier that ever wo
- Joined
- Oct 27, 2005
- Messages
- 2,934
Jamal - As always, your trip keeps me coming back for more. You are obviously a wonderful friend and family.
Your ability to visit with all these CM's has me just a teeny bit jealous. I once had a CM say "Good Morning" and I was thrilled.
Your ability to visit with all these CM's has me just a teeny bit jealous. I once had a CM say "Good Morning" and I was thrilled.
jamal
<font color=blue>Nutwing #4<br><font color=deeppin
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2003
- Messages
- 1,552
Faithful readers, I cannot tell you how much your comments motivate me to write more. It is a pleasure to read your kind words! Thank you so much for reading our family's little story. I appreciate every comment and read each one more than once!
Now, I have a small request. I am trying to encourage The CookMaster, faithful lurker, to join the DIS and share her comments with you. She does almost everything I tell her to do, but she has not joined yet. You might be able to encourage her! You will love her even more when you read her words!
My Kentucky friend I referenced from our last trip is still speaking to me. She may have to join, too, to clear herself.
More to come this weekend! Kids are out of school and time is back on my side!
Find a reason to skip today,
Jami
Now, I have a small request. I am trying to encourage The CookMaster, faithful lurker, to join the DIS and share her comments with you. She does almost everything I tell her to do, but she has not joined yet. You might be able to encourage her! You will love her even more when you read her words!
My Kentucky friend I referenced from our last trip is still speaking to me. She may have to join, too, to clear herself.
More to come this weekend! Kids are out of school and time is back on my side!
Find a reason to skip today,
Jami
Grammyof2
<font color=deeppink>Best Woo Hootier that ever wo
- Joined
- Oct 27, 2005
- Messages
- 2,934
Hey Cookmaster
Please come and join us on a voyage. We would love to hear side B. I am old and refer to 45's. Some don't recognize the term.
Plus I may be your neighbor so we really should get aquainted. I too cook alot. We probably have alot in common. We could swap recipes, and cookies, and anything else you may have. I have guano
Please come and join us on a voyage. We would love to hear side B. I am old and refer to 45's. Some don't recognize the term.
Plus I may be your neighbor so we really should get aquainted. I too cook alot. We probably have alot in common. We could swap recipes, and cookies, and anything else you may have. I have guano
lauren_elizabeth
Disney World Lover
- Joined
- Feb 1, 2006
- Messages
- 3,223
princesslibby
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2004
- Messages
- 871
I would love to read what The Cookmaster has to write about y'alls trip. 
libby
libby
jamal
<font color=blue>Nutwing #4<br><font color=deeppin
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2003
- Messages
- 1,552
lauren_elizabeth said:I'm all caught up on your trip report and I absolutely LOVE it!
I have a question about the infamous crocs because it's different for everyone. How'd they do for your boys? Were they comfortable for the whole day? I'm thinking of getting a pair....
Keep posting! LOVE IT!
My boys love their Crocs. They wore them all over Disney and still wear them now. We especially liked them for Disney b/c they go from wet to dry so well.
DS 12 just told me to add the Banana Guy:
He said a bunch. Get it? A bunch of Banana Guys. Now he is complaining about my cheesy pun. You can't buy good help.
So, The CookMaster is not thrilled about the idea of posting here. She keeps saying she is 'unfit.' Sigh...I told you she was humble.
Keep trying.
Next post up tomorrow!!!!
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