The One with the Empty Stretch Limo... (May 2-11th)

[tink2020]

Saturday, May 5th

I woke up bright and early, looked at the alarm, and realized it was about 5am. I couldn't get back to sleep, so I decided to quietly shower and get ready for the day. I took a walk around the outside of the sleepy resort, took some photos, etc. It was so much fun to watch everything wake up!

I made my way to the beach, searched high and low and eventually found a dry bench, and had a little quiet time. Afterwards, I watched longingly as various runners went by. This weekend was the Minnie Marathon, and I had originally been signed up to participate.

After a relaxing hour or so, I went to the Beach Club Marketplace. It wasn't open yet, so I walked to guest services to ask a few questions about mail and internet, and walked back to the market. I was able to quickly return the DVD we had borrowed, as well as get some breakfast (chocolate chip croissant and something else equally as delicious), and some hot chocolate. I woke Kyle up around 7:30, and we enjoyed our breakfast before he got ready to head to the Magic Kingdom.

Our leisurely morning made us just miss the MK opening, including the song I have titled "The Most Magical Place on Earth", which is an absolute must for me! Alas, we headed into said Magical Place just after the crowds, and slowly made our way through the train station. The trolley was just on the other side, so we decided to go for a ride down Main Street, USA. When we reached the castle, we heard The song playing, and got to see the entire opening show right there on main street! I didn't realize they did that, but it made my morning. We sat on a curb near the bridge to Tomorrowland and enjoyed so many of our favorites

Once we got to Tomorrowland, we started at Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. While waiting for our vehicle to begin, I discovered a secret (which is probably not much of a secret), that allowed me to do my very best ever on this ride. I even beat Kyle!

Next, we entered with no wait for Monsters Inc, Laugh Floor. We were really excited to see this attraction, and ended up deciding to join in the fun and text a joke or two. Thankfully, we had Pal Mickey to supply us with horribly corny but smile-worthy, Disney friendly jokes -- perfect for the show, I'm sure!

The attraction was very cute, but it's somewhat embarrassing when a 23-year old and 27-year old from Cincinnati are the ONLY two to text in jokes. We felt pretty awesome. Not quite as cool, though, as the teenage girls next to us that debated (loudly) whether Africa was a country or a continent.

We rode Space Mountain next, and exited the ride IMMEDIATELY after a Dream Squad member handed out his last Dream Fastpass

Kyle and I made our way to Fantasyland next, got a fastpass for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and "rode" Mickey's Philharmagic. (Rode? Saw? Experienced?

When we got to Small World, there was a 10 minute wait posted. As we walked in, though, it was clear that the right queue was open with nobody in it -- our very own Fastpass! Of course, many followed, but not before we walked right on our boat!

Next were Pooh and a fastpass for Peter Pan's Flight, then it was time for lunch at Pinocchio Village Haus. The service here was the slowest I've had anywhere, but the restaurant was cute and the food was good enough. Apparently, Kyle had told the Blue Fairy the he wanted, "a sell fone pleez"

After lunch, we didn't really feel up for Peter Pan's Flight, considering even the fastpass line looked long. We were getting tired, and didn't have the motivation in the heat and crowds to stand around waiting in line. Boy, were we realizing how spoiled we had become

 

[tink2020]

Saturday, cont'd...

On our way to Liberty Square, we made sure to duck into shops for protection from the heat and humidity. {Editors note: After the last several days in Cincinnati, with temperatures of 101+ and heat indices of 110-teens, with humidity equal or greater than that in Florida, I'm laughing that I was so miserable in the "heat" of 90-95 However, since I find notes from every day about the heat, I'll continue to write in that spirit )

We rode Haunted Mansion fairly quickly, and then Kyle wanted to explore Tom Sawyer Island. The raft dropped us off, and we engaged in a quick (although it turned out to be not-so-quick) game of checkers. How surreal, to be sitting down on a remote island dock playing checkers while in Walt Disney World. The pace of this trip was truly something I was not used to, but I was finding ways to enjoy it every day! :

(Kyle won. As in, completely destroyed me.)

After roaming through some caves and finding "secret" escapes in forts, we sought refuge in the air-conditioning of the Country Bear Jamboree. Finally, it was time to seek out a spot for the Disney Dreams Come True parade. I sent Kyle to do just that, while I waited in line at Aloha Isle for that glorious snack they call Dole Whip.

There were 2 lines at AI, about 6 people deep. There was no surprise that it was crowded, but I was shocked that I had waited in line about 25 minutes when things went from bad to worse! When I was 2 people away, the cashier at my window just disappeared. Walked away, never to return. We waited about 10 more minutes (literally), and finally the lady in front of me all but yells at the other worker, trying to get some service. We are told that the other cashier "was done for the day". What?! It would have been nice for her to inform us of that, or for the remaining CMs to let us know that our entire line was not really going to ever get served.

Boy, it's a good thing I love Dole Whips, because this one took over an hour to get. How ridiculous is that?! I got so caught up in it, that I didn't really keep track.

Dole Whip in hand, I practically had to run to meet Kyle just in time for the parade.

I don't frequent the boards as much as I used to, so I don't know the "general consensus" on anything. So, what is it these days on the Disney Dreams Come True parade vs Share A Dream Come True? I know people didn't like the snowglobes, which I couldn't care less about. But I do not like the music of this new parade. Oh well, it was still enjoyable.

On my way out, ironically enough, I was asked to do a survey about my food service experience in the Magic Kingdom today. Cool! I let them have it, as positively as I could That's all I ever want, is to be able to provide feedback. That made my day that it worked out as such!

As we boarded the monorail to head back to the car, Pal Mickey says he is "tuckered out". Me too buddy, me too....

 

[tink2020]

Saturday, cont'd...

Back at the Beach Club Villas, we crashed on the bed in the air-conditioning, and just relaxed all afternoon. At this point, we marveled at how we ever survived on our honeymoon. For 3 days of our trip (which was oddly enough not centered around WDW ), we went from open to close in the heat and crowds of Peak season (mid June). Amazing what a little perspective will do...

We finally had a chance to experience Stormalong Bay from about 4:30-6:00pm, and it was absolutely wonderful. We loved the sand bottom, the 'whirlpool' area, everything about it! It was surprisingly empty! We can only guess that maybe folks were heading in to get ready for dinner? Whatever the reason, it was a very pleasant afternoon!

After our swim, we showered and got ready for our evening at Ohana. We had an ADR for dinner, then planned to walk the beach at the Polynesian and watch the Electrical Water Pageant. I have attempted to watch the EWP every trip since our honeymoon, and have been unsuccessful every time. Tonight would be no exception...

When we got to the podium, they had no record of our ADR! I provided them with the confirmation number, as well as a printout from the hotel that we received upon check-in, and still nothing. Aagh! They told us they would honor our time since we had documentation, but I'm quite sure that got lost from one person to the next, because it was almost an hour and a half before we were called to be seated.

Once we finally got seated, our table was fantastic! A table for 2 with a view of Cinderella's Castle and the Seven Seas Lagoon, as well as the open part of the kitchen, the gentleman performing Hawaiian folk music -- it was wonderful! The food here was excellent, and we had wonderful service. We even got to watch as the EWP passed by, although we had quite a precarious angle, and only the noise of the restaurant as background music. Not quite the same as enjoying from the serene beach, but at least we got a bit closer!

After what felt like an extremely long evening, we were ready to go back to the hotel and back to bed!



Due up: The Empty Stretch Limo, and a ridiculous meal in the United Kingdom...

 

[tink2020]

Just as an FYI...

One of several reasons that I have not been posting this as quickly as I would like (probably the only legitimate reason ) is that my desktop is seriously on the fritz. It is incredibly frustrating to use it, so I have only been able to upload pictures thus far in the report. I figured it might never get done if I wait on that computer to behave, so the pictures from the next several days will have to wait. Sorry!

 

[KMH1]

Friday, cont'd

This encounter was fun, and the kids asking questions of the animal keepers was hysterical. About halfway through the demonstration, Kyle pointed out the "Animal Encounter" sign to the left of the stage. The silhouette on the schedule sign was CLEARLY that of a Fennec fox. If you've ever been to the Cincinnati Zoo with me (ok, which would only be one DISer).... or if you've posted on the community board thread a while back about, I don't know, cute animals or something, then you know of my affection for the Fennec Fox. We even agreed to take our small miniature pincher after declaring that we didn't ever want a small dog, solely based on her resemblance to said species of fox. It's pretty much, in my opinion, cuter than any other creature that has ever or will ever walk the face of Planet Earth. Ok, except maybe for human children. But still.... look at this adorable animal!

That's me!

Saturday, cont'd...

I don't frequent the boards as much as I used to, so I don't know the "general consensus" on anything. So, what is it these days on the Disney Dreams Come True parade vs Share A Dream Come True? I know people didn't like the snowglobes, which I couldn't care less about. But I do not like the music of this new parade. Oh well, it was still enjoyable.

Not a fan either. Bad music!

Due up: The Empty Stretch Limo, and a ridiculous meal in the United Kingdom...

Hey, did you run spell check? Cause, I miss your cute rediculous!

Take care of yourself Jen. Hope to see you soon!

 

[tink2020]

That's me!



Not a fan either. Bad music!



Hey, did you run spell check? Cause, I miss your cute rediculous!

Take care of yourself Jen. Hope to see you soon!

Hmm... no, no spell check. I guess I just spell it right sometimes when I'm paying more attention

 

[Tinkaroo]

Saturday, May 5th

Our leisurely morning made us just miss the MK opening, including the song I have titled "The Most Magical Place on Earth", which is an absolute must for me! Alas, we headed into said Magical Place just after the crowds, and slowly made our way through the train station. The trolley was just on the other side, so we decided to go for a ride down Main Street, USA. When we reached the castle, we heard The song playing, and got to see the entire opening show right there on main street! I didn't realize they did that, but it made my morning. We sat on a curb near the bridge to Tomorrowland and enjoyed so many of our favorites

Once we got to Tomorrowland, we started at Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. While waiting for our vehicle to begin, I discovered a secret (which is probably not much of a secret), that allowed me to do my very best ever on this ride. I even beat Kyle!

After lunch, we didn't really feel up for Peter Pan's Flight, considering even the fastpass line looked long. We were getting tired, and didn't have the motivation in the heat and crowds to stand around waiting in line. Boy, were we realizing how spoiled we had become

I love that song, too!

Do tell! I am TERRIBLE at Buzz - I need any ammo I can use (literally and figuratively) to at least not be the butt of DH's jokes!

DVC and more frequent trips will do that to ya. I often marvel at the marathon trips I would take with my family in mid-July as a kid. It wasn't until I was at least 10+ that we would even take an afternoon break, and the parks used to be open until at least midnight back then.

Loving the recap so far! Just think, it's not too long until you're back there again.

 

[tink2020]

Sunday, May 6th

After going to bed at a decent time the night before, waking up for morning EMH was no trouble. I know, I know, any good DISer should avoid the park with EMH. But we were only staying a couple hours anyway, so we figured we would try to get a few rides in early.

We got to the Studios and got front row parking! Woohoo! One of the highlights of my entire trip thus far, was that we took the tram anyway, because it was there and the CMs were asking us to board. But not only were we in the back of a completely empty tram, the CM talking (immediately behind us) still used the microphone system.

As we walked up to the park, we saw the women running in the Minnie, and cheered them along. It brought back such great memories of Marathon Weekend, as shocked as I am to say that

We approached the gates, and became extremely skeptical that there was virtually nobody around. A few stragglers came, but were escorted in quickly for a birthday party. I called guest services, and it turns out the EMH scheduled changed a few weeks early. I hadn't looked at any schedules for months, because this trip was so neglected One lesson - Confirm stuff before you leave! (I can't believe I'm having to say that )

So anyway, we debated for a few minutes and decided to just wait it out. Kyle and I perched ourselves at the turnstiles and cracked open Steve Barrett's Hidden Mickey's guide and Passporter Treasure Hunts to pass the time. While waiting there, we struck up a conversation with Tim, a CM from guest services. In a few minutes, we found ourselves entering "Celebrity Corner" behind guest services as the First Family!

In this room was lots of Walt and Disney memorabilia, as well as an old TV playing Walt Disney's "Disneyland" special. We enjoyed beverages and awaited our next instructions from Tim. When he came to get us, we made our way down the Boulevard toward the sorcerer hat, taking advantage of some wonderful photo opportunities! We sat on a bench and had a wonderful conversation with Tim, before our car came for us. The car used for the opening scene at the studios is the same model that Walt himself chose to get across the studio lots in California. Did you know that the idea of Grand Marshalls and First Families (for the Disney Parks) were Walt's ideas? Cool!

After practicing repeatedly and successfully "shooting" our super important, amazingly difficult line ("Hollywood, Here we Come!") we were whisked away down Sunset Blvd to the Rock n' Roller Coaster, where we got a car all to ourselves! Everyone along the way welcomed us by name... it was great!

 

[tink2020]

After parting ways with Tim, we headed for Tower of Terror. We were on in 13 minutes, and then experienced One Man's Dream for the first time in several years. We also saw Voyage of the LIttle Mermaid, and rode the Great Movie Ride before lunch.

We decided on ABC Commissary for our meal, and very much regretted it. I literally couldn't eat my meal. Oh well, more room later for ice cream!

We gave up on the Stars & Motor Cars parade because it was so crowded, and opted instead to go back to the hotel. After resting for a bit, I headed to Fed Ex Kinko's to mail a few packages for Mothers Day and Anniversaries, and spent about an hour in Downtown Disney. Back to Beach Club Villas for about an hour, and then Kyle and I headed to the International Gateway for our dinner ADR at the Rose & Crown.

This meal was probably the best I had eaten in a very long time. Unfortunately, it was so big that I took half of it back to the hotel and, as I now recall, it didn't get touched the rest of the trip In some form or another, we had steak, fish, lamb, scones, apple crumble, a variety of cheeses, nuts, fruit, puff pastries, potato soup.... I'm so hungry right now! Our server's name was Jennifer, who left us with a "thank you" card with tidbits of information from her village in Ireland. It was really a great experience, in all aspects!

We then visited the gorgeous gardens in the Canada Pavilion, and hung out with Aladdin and Jasmin in the Morocco pavilion before returning to the room.

Before sleeping, we played a little cards, watched some TV and allowed ourselves to wind down (and digest! ).


Due up: A run at the gym, incredible crowds and a behind the scenes listen to Fantasmic ...

 

[aepecoraro]

That is so cool that you were able to be the First Family!! At least getting up early paid off!! I have always wanted to do that, My dream would be at the MK since you get to ride the train with all the characters or EPCOT since you get to ride in the test track car!

 

[tink2020]

I love that song, too!

Do tell! I am TERRIBLE at Buzz - I need any ammo I can use (literally and figuratively) to at least not be the butt of DH's jokes!

DVC and more frequent trips will do that to ya. I often marvel at the marathon trips I would take with my family in mid-July as a kid. It wasn't until I was at least 10+ that we would even take an afternoon break, and the parks used to be open until at least midnight back then.

Loving the recap so far! Just think, it's not too long until you're back there again.

Ok, ok, I'll tell. You can't laugh though, because it's so simple that most people I'm sure already do it. I used to pull the trigger as I aimed at each target, and I learned this time that you can hold it down and have a near-continuous fire. Just that little change, and I swear I quadrupled my average!

 

[tink2020]

That is so cool that you were able to be the First Family!! At least getting up early paid off!! I have always wanted to do that, My dream would be at the MK since you get to ride the train with all the characters or EPCOT since you get to ride in the test track car!

I totally agree! It was a wonderful experience, but mostly because Tim was such a phenomenal CM. The "show", the interaction that we participated in itself was maybe not as exciting as the big to-do at the other parks, but he certainly made it special, and we know we were very lucky!

 

[bethbuchall]

I loved the newest updates! What a great trip!

 

[tink2020]

As I type out the next installment, I have my desktop working overtime in safe mode, as I try to fix it. Maybe pictures will follow.....? I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

 

[tink2020]

Monday, May 7th

You know what they say, "It's all down hill from here"...

Actually, I woke up the morning of May 7th thinking that same thing, as we were halfway through our trip. Immediately though, I was shocked that we still had an entire second half, considering all we had done! What a wonderful treat, to be in the World for such a lengthy trip (for us)

I woke up at about 7am, and decided to relax on the balcony, having my quiet time while enjoying my "Epcot" view (random woods). Kyle wasn't up for a run or swim, so I decided to check out the fitness club, Ship Shape. To my surprise, it was absolutely packed! I chose one of the last couple machines, biked about 10 miles and called it quits. I headed back to the marketplace technically, my notebook actually uses the word "mosey", no lie. I'm not sure why I just told you that ). I refilled our mug and went back to the room.

I picked up around the room a bit, watched a little television, and decided to wake Kyle up at 8:30. It was then that I realized I myself would need to get ready as well, so all of a sudden we were running a bit late.

Eventually, we were off to Epcot! I have decided that one of my favorite strolls anywhere in the entire Walt Disney World resort, is alongside the canal towards the International Gateway. The music was playing moderately loud on a very quiet morning, and it was just invigorating. Well, and relaxing at the same time. Try and explain that one.

We secured fastpassess for Test Track, and rode Mission:Space (the original version of course, one of the attractions we still find most fascinating!). We contemplated riding Universe of Energy at this point, but I just cannot bring myself to riding such a long ride. I still cannot get over a single attraction lasting over 45 minutes. I'm 23 and have a decent amount of patience, and I just about lose it on that one. Still, Kyle has NEVER ridden it prior to this trip, so we'll have to tackle it at one point or another...

We spent a few minutes in Innoventions East, went to the Fountainview Cafe for a great big, tasty pastry, and walked right by said cafe when we saw it was closed. Still, or again. Whichever, we were bummed.

Sans tasty pastry, we explore Minnie's butterfly Garden (very cool, if you ask me), and went to Pin Central to finally pick out a Flower and Garden Festival pin. We were right by Electric Umbrella (and, of course, without our tasty pastry), so we decided to beat the lunch crowd. Here, I rediscovered the talking trashcan (which, truthfully, entertains me as much as the toddlers I work with each day ) and proceeded to play with the garbage receptacle for several minutes. I've said it before... I'm easily amused.

As we were leaving after lunch, we barely avoided being trampled by the crowds piling in the opposite direction. Good choice on our part to come early!

We played next in Innoventions West, including trying our hand at the Nintendo Wii again. Man, we really need that. We also did the mini-segway... experience? It's really not much of anything, but we're obsessed with Segways, so it was enough to whet our palate for our real tour later in the week!

Finally, we conquered Ellen's Universe of Energy. I can check that one off of my list for the next several years..........

Last stop in Future World was Club Cool, where I had a cup or two (or 3...4....?) of my all-time favorite beverage, Kinley. People-watching of course takes precedence at this particular attraction, as the unsuspecting masses try everyone else's all-time favorite beverage, Beverly.

On our way through World Showcase, we watched a few songs by Spelmann's Gledje, and caught the last half of Servuer Amusant. He still cracks me up, although I miss Bubble Nicolas!

Mid-afternoon, we went back to BCV to relax.

 

[tink2020]

Monday, cont'd

At 5pm or so, we walked around Crescent Lake to Spoodles to see if we could get a table despite not having an ADR. We were going to dine in the Magic Kingdom, but wanted instead to stay close to "home" for a little while longer. We were told it wouldn't be difficult to be seated, so we waited just a few minutes in Sweet Tooth "admiring" the various Miss America's that have graced the Jersey boardwalk, and were seated just before 5:30.

For dinner, we had 4-cheese flatbread, Red Snapper with Couscous and spicy tomato sauce, Lamb Kebab, Rigatoni, etc. I'm a bit disappointed that there was no babaganous amongst the various dips/spreads, but the meal was pretty good.

We went finally to the Magic Kingdom to see Spectromagic, my favorite parade Unfortunately 2.5 hours before the parade was to start, there were literally no spots. This is why I never go to the Magic Kingdom on a Monday! Ugh! I was totally shocked, and incredibly frustrated. We decided to hit a few rides instead, and hoped for a better outcome for Spectro and Wishes on Thursday.

It's amazing how different Epcot feels, being so much larger (well, and the fact that it was just a better day for that particular park). The ride lines hit 60-80 minutes, but it never once felt crowded.

Back to the Magic Kingdom...

Since everyone in the entire WDW Resort was sitting on a curb waiting for Spectromagic, the lines were not bad throughout the Magic Kingdom. Pirates boasted only 5 minutes, but as we were walking on a CM said "There's nobody in the right line"... making our wait less than 1 minute for the front seat of an empty boat! We were able to ride the front car of BTMRR in less than 10 minutes.

Our very own little "dream", though, would be granted while walking through Fronteirland. A roped off area was being open as a group that was slated to be there did not end up needing the space. We got a wonderful seat for Spectro afterall!

After quite a long wait, it was time for my favorite parade! I swear, each time I notice more and more detail in this parade, that was once just captivating because of it's lights and music. In my opinion, this is one of the most brilliant parades in Disney history. I know, that is blasphemy to some. I was fortunate enough to see Main Street Electrical parade, and I realize that it was ground-breaking -- but I cannot ever get enough of Spectromagic.

After retrieving my headband from Mr. Smee , the parade was winding to an end.

We cut through to Adventureland for a Dole Whip (of course) and realized we were never going to get a good spot for Wishes. We started to watch from Fantasyland, but that of course proved to be a completely ridiculous idea. We knew better, we were just hoping to find SOMEWHERE to watch this wonderful show. Don't get me started on my opinions on TGM, that was covered in a previous trip report.

We walk out from Adventureland, down Main Street USA, and at least listened to the wonderful soundtrack of Wishes as we walked out of the park. Since this is my favorite aspect anyway, I am still moved to tears, even with my back to the castle and fireworks. I'm such a sap!

We hopped on the resort monorail, rode back to the TTC and headed for home to sleep.

Just before turning onto Epcot Resorts Blvd, we hear noises that at first we cannot make out. After turning off the radio and rolling down the windows, we hear that it is Fantasmic! We pull off to the side of the road, and just listen to the Finale of my OTHER favorite nighttime spectacular. It was so unique an experience, to be almost equally as entertained by the music without even seeing the wonderful effects of this show. Hmm... I have typed and deleted repeatedly now, and cannot put into words this seemingly silly but really cool few moments. Eh, I tried. Just take my word for it, we had a great time!

Finally, it was actually time for bed. Not at all the evening I had planned, but an interesting and wonderful one nonetheless.



Due up: Mouse Quest and a Mouse on the golf course!

 

[tink2020]

Tuesday, May 8th

This morning was one we had been waiting for with much anticipation... it was time for Mouse Quest!

DVC Members received some information a few months prior regarding a few tours offered to members by the Disney Institute. I was really excited, because I assumed the DI tours would be geared more towards adults, and I (falsely) assumed they would be well organized, given that they cater to business and people paying good money for their seminars. Not that we aren't paying good money for our WDW trips, but... well, nevermind. For whatever reason, I assumed these tours would be top notch.

So anyway, Mouse Quest is the tour I found most interesting. It was touted as a scavenger hunt through the Magic Kingdom geared towards adults (or at least older children), so Kyle and I thought it would be fantastic!

I'm going to try and review this quickly, without bringing down the entire trip report. I was extremely upset at the end of this tour (well, and throughout almost the entire thing), but I think I've debriefed enough by ranting about it with other DVC DISers

The concept was brilliant. A scavenger hunt for adults a la the Amazing Race is something I could really enjoy. The biggest problem, however, was that rules were given and not at all enforced, and that - even in Walt Disney World - people are jerks and cheaters. Teams were saying they would combine, only to work separately and do only half the work each in half the amount of time. People were getting tokens ("points") long after the specified time, although it was presented in the rules that at 11:30:00 you would be SOL. We were told we could not ask CMs for answers, yet we ran into at least 2 groups (one of which being the group that decided to divide and conquer) getting the answers to several questions from various rides, while we had to "waste" the time riding them in order to appropriately collect the information.

Now I am as competitive as the next girl (ok, maybe a lot more competitive than her, and than most other girls) ... so I would have been "bummed" had we not won, regardless of the situation. I'll give you that. But this was ridiculous.

About halfway through, I was supremely motivated to kick this particular team's collective #$(*@ in this game, and not because I was competitive, but because the Justice League girl in me was furious that they could not play nicely. At this point in the tour, I couldn't actually care less if Kyle and I won, so long as they did not. So long as ANYONE won, except them.

There were families with small(ish) children playing. There were lots of people there to have a good time, all of whom paid quite a large sum of money (per person) to participate in this 3-hour-tour. It was extremely frustrating that because there were lots of things that weren't planned for at all, and - worse - some that were just completely ignored, it was absolutely impossible for us to compete in this game with the same odds as other teams.

"Because it's Disney, everyone [got] a prize!" (from their literature). True, but it was a bit of a slap in the face. The winning team got a price valued at about $400. They hooted and hollered and literally rubbed it in the face of the 10-year-old onlooker who told his mother that they (his team) "never stood a chance". The rest of us got a pin that, no lie, doesn't even qualify for official Disney pin trading. It's 100% bendable, has no "Disney" printed on the back, had no card back, etc. It's a joke.

Ok, so that's about the only time (I hope) that you'll hear me complain, and just leave it as a complaint. I don't really have anything positive to spin or look back on in this regard. Believe me, The Disney Institute and DVC Member Services have heard my complaints. This was such a wonderful opportunity, but ended up being such a giant flop. Until they can step up and make people follow the FEW rules they set forward, people will always continue to cheat, and it will be an absurd waste of a large chunk of vacation money for everyone else with a few morals.

 

[tink2020]

Tuesday, cont'd...

Now, back to your regularly scheduled Disney programming...

After the never-again-to-be-mentioned morning activities, we went back to the hotel for about an hour and a half to sleep. In the morning, we had secured the very closest spot in the Minnie parking, and we did not want to take a chance on losing it since we were coming back to the MK later that afternoon. Therefore, we hopped on the monorail to the TTC, then transfered to the Epcot monorail, then walked through Future World to World Showcase, and through World Showcase to the International Gateway to the Beach Club Villas. I had read this "tip" on the DIS, and it's one I'll pass on next time. It was scenic, sure, but took us absolutely forever to get home!


After our little nap, we waited a while at the (really pretty! ) BC bus stops for a ride headed back to the Magic Kingdom. We finally arrived, and decided just to wander and do a few more Passporter Treasure Hunt questions before dinner. It was really starting to feel like the trip was winding down.

(Side note: Have you ever read the "Certificate of Citizenship" in Mickey's Country House? Find it next time, it's hilarious!)

When we got to Tony's for our ADR, the line was literally out the door of Exposition Hall and down Main Street USA! We worried that we would be there a while, but were seated in about 5 minutes. I guess those poor folks had no ADR? They were going to be awfully hungry...

Dinner was fantastic! The Pesto was absolutely to die for. They had no wedding soup (bummer!), so I opted for Butternut Squash soup. It was all right, but I have to admit - it was not the same as DCL's version! Dinner was Chicken Florentina and Spaghetti and Meatballs, both of which were outstanding. The Chocolate Bomb and Cinnamon Gelato were excellent, the service was excellent... it was a wonderful meal, from start to finish!

After dinner, we rolled ourselves out of the Magic Kingdom, walked out to our ridiculously close car and drove to Fantasia Gardens miniature golf. Now I grew up on Mini Golf, so I was stoked for this evening, and to finally try out two of Disney's courses!

First, it cracked me up that there were "tee times", but - in true Disney fashion - they knew what they were doing, and it allowed for a wonderfully paced round with no pressure from crowds too close in front of or behind us. We received an additional 15% off on top of our AP or DVC discount, because 3 holes in the Gardens course were under refurbishment.

We played the Gardens course first, which was really cute! If you haven't been, this course is described as follows: ".. turns miniature golf into a symphony of fun for the whole family. 18 holes of whimsical challenges take the pplayer through five orchestral moevments of the Disne yClassic, Fantasia. dancing Fountains, Musical instruments and animated statues add to a golfing fantasy you'll always remember". The course was very clearly laid out, nicely kept (no surprise), and well-detoured Kyle and I shot 42 and 45 respectively, so I - of course - had to challenge him to the other course.

The Fairways Course is described as "a unique golfing experience, [which] provides the chalenging thrills of a full-sized course. Enjoy bpure golf on a small scale, complete with water hazards, grassy roughs, and dog-leg bends that demand skill form the most seasoned of players. 18 beautifully landscaped hols creat a setting unklike any course you've ever played". Let me reiterate -- it's a real freaking golf course, just minus the distance of the initial drive. This should be interesting, since Kyle (the doctor) golfs, and I "golf" about once every 4 years and take a stroke limit on just about every hole.

It was truthfully a very tricky course, but I was somehow on fire. I shot 67 to Kyle's 83, and was only 4 above the course record for the day! At about hole 9 on this course, we were joined by the cutest little field mouse, who proceeded to practically follow us (or call out all of his friends, but I'm thinking the former ) for the next 3 holes.

It was a beautiful night, the first night it had actually started to cool down to the temperatures we were expecting (80ish...). We had an absolutely wonderful time at this course, and will definitely be back!

Now though, it's time to call it a night. This practically-professional golfer chick was beat!


Due up: Making a towel "animal", forest fire haze, and realizing we are just getting old....

 

[tink2020]

Wednesday, May 9th

This was undoubtedly our laziest morning yet. We slept until about 8 and lounged around the room until 10ish, watching Mike & Mike and doing a whole lot of nothing. We had debated what to do on this particular day, throwing around ideas such as a trip to Celebration, a trip - gasp! - off-site (I should have known that idea would never really last in my brain )... finally, we ended up settling on an old favorite. We grabbed a mug full of soda at the Beachclub Marketplace, and we were off to Downtown Disney with no agenda.

Before making it to our car, we saw that it was time for Towel Animal Class in the BCV lobby! I, of course, wasn't walking by without joining in Kyle waited patiently as I made my towel basket. I think I missed my calling Basket safely back in the room, we were really leaving.

Before making it to our car rolleyes1 ) we were stopped in our tracks after walking outside to the lot. Rolling in from the forest fires blazing dozens of miles away, smoke and the smell of burning leaves were so thick that we wandered the grounds a bit, just taking it all in. Then, of course, we needed to return to the room to make sure I was well-equipped with my inhaler.

Finally at DTD, we decided on Earl of Sandwich for lunch. Apparently, so did everyone.

We strolled through DTD, still unable to find a Beach Club Villas pin (or ANY Beach Club pin!). We made a few more purchases and were on our way to the Studios. We watched the Streetmosphere Performers, answered a few treasure hunt questions and enjoyed "Sounds Dangerous".

I tried to get a milkshake, which sounded like the greatest thing ever at the time, only to be told they didn't have any. The CM at the would-be shake shop said that Scoops, near the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, had great ice cream and "the biggest scoops you've ever seen".

I'm here to tell you that Scoops - at least on that particular day - served the smallest scoops of ice cream I have ever seen OR imagined. The ice cream was good though, and hit the spot on an afternoon which saw the return of the ridiculous heat.

We watched Four for a Dollar (which brought back wonderful memories of when they serenaded us on our honeymoon ), then Beauty and the Beast. After the show, Kyle got a frozen raspberry lemonade which was infinitely better than my ice cream. I should say, rather, that Kyle AND I got said lemonade, which of course we shared equally

We staked out a spot for the Stars & Motor Cars Parade about 45 minutes early, only to have one rude family after another park themselves directly in front of us. We decided, instead, to take the Friendship boat back to the hotel.

We enjoyed Stormalong Bay for about 45 minutes, and then relaxed in the villa playing a game or two before returning for our dinner ADR. In the meantime, my friend from back home (who is now a special friend of Goofy's!) called and we tried to arrange a time to meet up later, since our trip was nearing an end.

 

[tink2020]

Wednesday cont'd

We returned to the Studios for dinner with our older cousin Jason at the 50's Prime Time Cafe. Before we were even seated, Kyle was being reprimanded - "Hats off in the house, please, you were raised better than that!".

Our server was a wonderful balance between over the top and boring, and did at least one thing perfectly. He realized, right from the start, that I could do no wrong!

Kyle and I both ordered the fried Boursin appetizer. We have never anywhere ordered 2 of the same thing, but Boursin cheese is one of our greatest vices. It lived up to its expectations, and will single-handedly draw us back to this restaurant! I also had fried chicken and vegetables, Kyle had the meatloaf. Dessert was some sort of cobbler for Kyle, and the greatest dessert I can remember having anywhere, the 50's PTC version of S'mores. This thing was unbelievable!

We sat for quite a while on a bench under The Hat, just taking in the wonderful atmosphere that is Walt Disney World. This had been such a phenomenal trip, mostly because we had so much time to sit and just enjoy being there.

Eventually, it was time to head to the amphitheater for Fantasmic. We got there about 1.5 hours early, and got our choice of any seats, anywhere. No joke! We took a wonderful row near the front in the center, and waited for my favorite nighttime show. It had been entirely too long since I had seen it! It was wonderful, as always, and we had never seen it from such a fantastic vantage point.

As we got on the tram to our parking space, it started to rain. For the first time all week it rained, and just now as we were turning in for the night. What a wonderful trip ....

As we got in the car, my phone rang. It was Jon, trying to catch up with us (after losing track of time ). He wasted absolutely no time putting us in our place and reminding us that we are so not in college anymore....

JO: "So what are you guys up to?"
Jen: "Well, we're just now leaving the Studios."
JO: "Oh, what did you do?"
Jen: "We had dinner, wandered around a bit and watched Fantasmic. Now we're heading back to the hotel, we're exhasuted!"
JO: "Oh, so you're staying in for the night?"


Um.... Noooo..... we went to Fantasmic, weren't you listening?! It's almost 10:00, Jon!

(Ahh, I remember the days when 10:00pm was time to get a shower to go out. )


Due up: Segway-ing around the World, Raspberry Diet Coke and Rappers Delight on the Piano...