There's No Place Like Home......

[thornton0511]

Isn't CSR massive???? I've never stayed but I did visit, and while absolutely beautiful, wow, so big. That's great that your room worked out.
yeah it's such a large resort!! so glad we got the location we did because given everything else there it could have been a make or break thing if we had ended up like in the very back
"For some reason we always end up running late when we have dinner at the Polynesian" C'mon Jenn, JUST at the Poly?
bahahahahaha!!! okay you got me!!
Don't feel too bad. Party season throws so may additional wrenches into the mix, it's almost impossible to keep it all straight. What works perfectly well most of the time just does not September through December.

yeah I know. I was just kicking myself because I knew about the party I had just forgotten and did not realize how our timing would effect things

Ground floor, brave. LOL. I just think of snakes sneaking in. Nice room.
stop it Scott!!! lol I seriously had a major snake phobia after reading that thread here on the disboards like 2 years ago and had forgotten until you bring it up again lol!!
WOW! The group that gathered waiting to get into the park. Glad they let everyone in.
yes it could have easily turned into an angry mob of people with Olaf fan's instead of pitch forks and torches...thankfully they decided the heck with it and let us all in
Love the photobomb while waiting for TGMR.
kids...gotta love em
I ate in a limo at Sci-Fi. LOL.
HA!! nice
Too bad the donut dessert was not good, it looked appealing in the photo.
my DH loved it so I think for me it just was not my thing.
I would have said something about the luggage and having to go get it.
lol well I will say that there will be more to that later in the story. We always try to give the benefit of the doubt when it comes to Disney but sometimes well......
Great pics around Epcot.
thank you! We always start with the first country and then I feel guilty if I do not include all of the others
Tokyo Dining is a good place to eat. Those kids plates were $49 when they came out, not sure if they sell them or not.
are you kidding me? You do realize that now I am going to have to try and buy some
I have to remember to do that Visa 5X7.
you know it is really hard for us to remember for some reason. We were really on top of it when we first got our Disney Visa but now for some reason we just forget lol! I totally forgot all about it the entire time we were in DL last summer and then a week later, after we were home, I remembered and I was so mad at myself
Love taking boats at Disney. If I ever move down there I would love that job.
oh they are so wonderful aren't they I love a boat, and so much better than a sardine packed smelly bus lol!
All caught up again.

thank you so much for sticking in there with me

I need to catch up better, but couldn't help commenting on your frustrating trip to the Poly. Ugh! Sometimes trying to use Disney transportation to get to any of the resorts on the monorail loop or WL is just SO frustrating. I don't think I've ever made it to any reservation on time.
lol no worries! Glad to know that I am not alone!!
I hope you are able to get checked into dinner without any problems.
oh yeah it all worked out like usual!!
Love your pics of CSR. Such a gorgeous resort!

it really is beautiful

I'm glad you liked your location at CSR! We also lucked out when we stayed and got practically the perfect location based on my multiple requests. They do seem to pay attention to those requests!
yes we were really happy about that!! Glad to hear that from you as well and that meeting request is maybe more of a common thing here!
Although I wasn't enamored with CSR, I did LOVE that pool! It was one of the first vacations where we visited the pool more than once. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
the theme was perfect! A very fun pool
Ah, the joys of Disney transportation. I really like using Disney transport, however, it can be really frustrating when you're trying to get somewhere by a specific time. Throw in a special ticketed event and extra crowds and it becomes a major headache. I am excited by the fact that the bus depots at the resorts now have those screens that estimate when your bus is coming - nothing was more frustrating to me than wondering when the bus I wanted might arrive!
oh I agree 100% especially if you don't know if you just missed the bus you were wanting to take, that is the worst because you assume it will be another 20+ before another comes lol. As bad as it can be I absolutely shutter at the idea of getting in a car and driving myself anywhere in the world...it just seems so un Disney
I don't feel bad that our break in trips meant we missed most of the Poly construction. I hope your dinner makes up for the crazy journey to get there!

oh they had walls everywhere!!! And honestly if you go knowing all of this construction is going on you really cannot be mad but oh my goodness walls EVERYWHERE!! lol. I just wish that they would pick one project and have everyone work on that one thing and then move to another instead of working like 50 areas all at one time. But still it's Disney and better than being at home so.....

 

[thornton0511]

Dinner at Ohana and Fireworks on the Beach


We made it to Ohana by 8:15pm. Thankfully being late, again, was not an issue whatsoever and within minutes we were having our picture taken by the tikis and escorted to our table.....but not by the tikis....they were just there....people actually took our picture and escorted us to....goodness nevermind lol



We ended up being sat almost in the same area as we had a few years ago but not right at the entrance so we still felt like we were eating in the restaurant lol! It turned out to be a great location because we were far enough away to not be in the middle of all of the activities and chaos, but at the same time did not feel detached from everything going on.



We were greeted by our friendly sever and immediately started off with the wonderful welcome bread….oh how I love you Ohana welcome bread!!



Next we were brought something new that we had not seen before at Ohana. Some type of lettuce wraps. I am guessing this is what replaced the salad. The salad they used to serve was very very good. It had some sort of poppy seed dressing….nom nom nom. These were not so great. The good thing is that there is so much wonderful food here that this was not a big deal AT ALL!



Thankfully they had not replaced the sticky wings and potstickers. Some bad things would have happened if these had been replaced lol!



It seemed that this dish had been changed a bit too. The noodles had a bit of a different taste than usual and the veggie medley seemed different as well. This was not a bad thing at all, just different.

I did not get any meat pictures only because it’s hard making those not look gross on your plate lol. They had, in fact, changed the chicken to pork and honestly it was not a big deal at all. We are a chicken loving family but the steak, pork and shrimp were all wonderful so the chicken being gone was not missed.



Around the time that we were finishing the main part of our meal, they called all the kids to do a coconut race so Sydney volunteered to give it a go! It was so fun watching the kids run around! Now it was time to return and have dessert!



And oh my goodness this is what I look forward to all year long people….BREAD PUDDING!!!!!!



And one with the banana fosters….it does not get any better than this!!!



Because my kids are insane and do not like bread pudding our server was kind enough to bring them each a cupcake instead. I want to point out at this point that I have heard several negative reviews about how the service here has gone down over the years and everything feels rushed to get you in a out as soon as possible. Our service was not bad at all, and everyone seemed pleasant. Now, I will say that it does seem like these poor CM’s are running around like chickens with their heads cut off but that is not their fault. And I’m not sure what might have changed to cause the chaos that they seem to be working in but that was the only not great thing that I noticed from this experience, and we noticed it too last December. It does not make me upset in any way other than just feeling sorry for the staff. They should not have to run around so much!



Anyways one of the best parts of this whole experience is at the end when they bring you the warm towels. Ahhhhh it is so nice!!! LOL!

So by the time we had finished it was just about time for Hallowishes to start at MK and I was hoping that we could go and watch this from the beach. Since we had run a little late tonight with getting here we did not have time to sit around, we had to hustle! The second problem was finding the way to the beach, in the dark, with construction walls everywhere! Eventually we did find our way and found a spot to catch the show just in time!



And oh my goodness was it ever spectacular!!



I really do think that the MK fireworks were made not for the castle but for the beach at the poly! The entire horizon was lit up with fireworks and it was just as magical as being in the park right up front!!

It was now time to head back to our resort and so we caught the monorail back to MK.



Since the party was still in full swing it was neat to see all of the effects at the park entrance that they incorporate into MNSSHP, especially since we have not quite make a party in our travel plans yet. Maybe one day! But the kids did want to stop for a spooky pumpkin picture none the less!!

It had been a very full and fantastic day. So much so that it wiped both kids out,



And they have quite the Disney stamina too. We got back to our room, cleaned up, and crashed. Tomorrow another adventure awaited!!

​

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Awww good for Sydney joining in on the coconut race. I think things like that are such a HUGE part of the experience for the kids AND for the parents.

Oh my, that is STILL one of my to dos. To see the fireworks from the Poly beach. It really does seem like the absolute perfect location. I am so crazy excited to do the Pirate cruise coming up to see the fireworks from the Lagoon. I think the experience will be similar and I can't wait.

Well, you know you had a successful day when the kids are wiped out. Mission accomplished!

 

[SimplyGoofy]

What a great meal at 'Ohana! I'm glad the travel issues didn't keep you from having a fun meal.

I don't mind most of the changes they've made, but I did really like that salad. It appears from other recent pictures that it may be available now (either in general or upon request)? As long as they don't take the potstickers, wings, and dessert, however, I'll be fine!

Those pictures from the Poly beach look amazing! It's even better that you got to see Hallow-wishes! When I stay at a monorail resort this May I may have to make my way over there to watch the fireworks. There is no such thing as too many viewings of Wishes!

Those kids are DONE! I bet they slept well - good job, Mom, by squeezing so much fun into one day!

 

[thornton0511]

Awww good for Sydney joining in on the coconut race. I think things like that are such a HUGE part of the experience for the kids AND for the parents.
yes I agree and we are sadly down to one kiddo who will still participate....they are just growing up way to fast
Oh my, that is STILL one of my to dos. To see the fireworks from the Poly beach. It really does seem like the absolute perfect location. I am so crazy excited to do the Pirate cruise coming up to see the fireworks from the Lagoon. I think the experience will be similar and I can't wait.
oh it was wonderful! I was just so excited to see another magical way to watch wishes Oh wow you are going to do the Pirate's cruise?! How exciting!! I cannot wait to hear all about it when you get back!!!
Well, you know you had a successful day when the kids are wiped out. Mission accomplished!

absolutely

What a great meal at 'Ohana! I'm glad the travel issues didn't keep you from having a fun meal.
oh yeah we had no problems and it was very yummy lol
I don't mind most of the changes they've made, but I did really like that salad. It appears from other recent pictures that it may be available now (either in general or upon request)? As long as they don't take the potstickers, wings, and dessert, however, I'll be fine!
Ha! That is exactly how I feel about Ohana!! That is interesting about the salad. I will be sure and try to request that next time, thank you so much for the heads up!!!
Those pictures from the Poly beach look amazing! It's even better that you got to see Hallow-wishes! When I stay at a monorail resort this May I may have to make my way over there to watch the fireworks. There is no such thing as too many viewings of Wishes!
yes it was very magical and I was so happy that we were able to time it and experience it! What monorail resort are you going to be staying at in May? That sounds soooo exciting!!!!
Those kids are DONE! I bet they slept well - good job, Mom, by squeezing so much fun into one day!

LOL!! yes they were wiped smooth out!! That is what a day of Epcot, swimming and a full belly from 2 TS restaurants in one day will do to ya!

 

[thornton0511]

An Early Start to a Very Magical Kingdom Day

We got up bright and early today because it was MAGIC KINGDOM DAY!!



This was our first time to the MK since the 7DMT had opened and we were aware of the new rope drop policy and how it was being compared to the rope drop at DCA. Since we had recently had lots of experience with this exactly in June with our Disneyland trip we knew how this was going to go. We wanted to be one of the first ones in line at the tunnel under the train station, so we made sure to arrive at MK one hour before park opening.



We made really good time and there were only a handful of people there this early in the morning lol. This was my first time to see the fall decorations for the Magic Kingdom and I instantly fell in love! My favorite holiday is Christmas but after seeing both sets of décor for the Disney parks I definitely prefer the pumpkins over the Christmas tress.

So here is how this morning was going to work. We were told that CM’s were instructed to hold a rope at each of the 2 tunnel entrances and everyone is to follow behind those ropes. This is exactly how it works for Cars Land at DCA, except they only have one rope since there are not two entrances. Both lines would merge together at Main Street and then those who wanted to hit the 7DMT were to go with the line on the right hand side, and those who wanted to meet Anna and Elsa were to go with the line on the left hand side. So we knew that the right hand side tunnel was the one we wanted to be at waiting under.



Since we had gotten here so early we did breakfast on the go and ate while waiting by the tunnel. It’s how we roll.



While we were waiting this guy showed up lol. He visited with the kids that were all standing in this area and had a really great personality and love of Disney. He was also from New Jersey and had an incredible Jersey accent lol!



He took a special interest in Cory and declared that he was officially Magic Kingdom’s Honorary Citizen of the Day lol!



These were the items that Cory received from the Cast Member that I took later at lunch when we had time to slow down . Being an honorary citizen did not really do anything for him but it was still really neat and cool to hang on to.

At this point it was getting close to the time when the welcome show was going to begin. A handful of CM’s dressed in blue came out.



One of them went over the new rules of how rope drop was going to go down and how we should all behave and follow the rules.



We then waited for the welcome show to begin. I was a bit sad that we did not really have a view of the show, but we had other priorities this morning and also, thankfully, we have seen the show before so it was not a big deal. We could still hear and sing along though!!!!



The time had finally come and we were escorted by the rope into the park lol. Our plans had worked out great with our timing and we were literally right behind the rope!



Down Main Street we went. I will say that this entire process was extremely organized and worked very well. It just makes me sad that it has come to this and that this is how you have to walk down Main Street now….because people cannot behave and control themselves.



Anyways we got to the part where we continue right with a new set of CM’s who led us to the mine train. We went around the right side of the castle toward Mad Tea party and passed between it and the Cheshire Cat snack kiosk. Then we came around to the entrance of 7DMT on the right. It was really simple.



I could not believe that we were finally getting to ride this!!! I will say that we were super rushed through the line so we did not have time to pause and interact with all of the cool stuff in the queue this time around, but oh my goodness the details in this line are AMAZING!! It was just as perfect as everything else that they have built for New Fantasyland!!!!



We literally walked right on the ride….and we ended up at the very front of the train with DH and Syd right up front and Cory and I right behind! The first thing I did notice is that the seats do not leave much room. I could see why some people were posting that it was uncomfortable. But this ride…..you guys it was fantastic!!! Forget all of the negative things you have heard because they are just silly lol! Listen, here is the truth, if you go into this with the understanding that it is essentially a new generation of a Disney Dark Ride, as opposed to a thrill ride, than you will not be disappointed. IMO that is what this ride was intended for. It’s not BTMRR or Everest. It’s more like Snow White’s Scary Adventures 2.0 lol! We really did absolutely love it, all of us!!

Everything happened so fast from the time that the welcome show ended that I do not know exactly what time they let us into the park for the 9am opening, but I did look down at my phone as we were walking out of the exit for the mine train and it was exactly 9:03am. You just can’t do much better than that. The line for the ride when we got off was already so long and the wait time was well over 30 minutes. It was totally worth getting to MK as early as we did, for us anyways..



We immediately headed to Peter Pan’s Flight at this point, and thanks to the combination of September’s non existent crowds , and the fact that everyone was either in line for 7DMT or A&E we just walked right on to this ride too lol!



It was just after 9am and we were flying over London in our magical pirate ship!



No Disney vacation really starts without this classic ride!!!




We tried to catch the kids in their pirate ship!!



This is the best we could do lol!



After our flight to Neverland we backtracked a little. We noticed a camera crew filming someone talking about the new ride on our way. Either this happens all the time here and Disneyland, or we just always happen to run into this kind of thing when we visit, because we see this all the time!


Up next was another family favorite! Winnie the Pooh which had a 5 min posted wait time. But in reality that means walk on…HA!!



We were really in no rush whatsoever and the park seemed so empty!! The kids took a few moments to play with the germ infested honey waterfall lol!



Then we boarded our honey pot and bounced like Tigger through the Hundred Acre Woods. Disney is so much fun!!!

Up next we run into a very special duo for the first time ever!
​

 

[BellaBaby]

Snow White's Scary Adventures 2.0…LOL! ITA!!

I have been following along but not commenting much lately, too much going on with the Holidays etc. but now things should slow down some. We are starting to plan our return to WDW for end of May. We are starting out at AOA, Finding Nemo Suite for 4 nights, using the Spring discount. Then we will move offsite to a pool home in Windsor Hills for 10 nights. I found a great discount for a combo ticket to Seaworld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens and we will have 8 day tickets to WDW. So the lower cost to stay at WH will help us do more things!!

Interesting to see how rope drop works with 7DMT. I hope to get a FP+, but if not this is the way to go! DH and I rode at the end of August for our Anniv. trip, but the kids have not yet and we really want them to experience it!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

WOW. Who knew all that DCA experience was going to come in handy in MK? You could almost write off that trip as a training expense.

I am seriously jealous that Cory got to be Magic Kingdom’s Honorary Citizen of the Day. Despite that lack of perks, that is one cool honour.

You know, that is so true. The fact that it is necessary to have a rope walk is kind of sad. On the other hand, it is hard to have a rope drop without a rope. I'm conflicted. LOL

Hmmmmm... THAT is a great way to look at it, a new generation of a Disney Dark Ride. I really like that. That actually helps me like it more.

 

[thornton0511]

Snow White's Scary Adventures 2.0…LOL! ITA!!

I have been following along but not commenting much lately, too much going on with the Holidays etc. but now things should slow down some. We are starting to plan our return to WDW for end of May. We are starting out at AOA, Finding Nemo Suite for 4 nights, using the Spring discount. Then we will move offsite to a pool home in Windsor Hills for 10 nights. I found a great discount for a combo ticket to Seaworld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens and we will have 8 day tickets to WDW. So the lower cost to stay at WH will help us do more things!!
Oh that sounds so exciting!!! And it sounds like you have a good plan too I hope you guys have a blast
Interesting to see how rope drop works with 7DMT. I hope to get a FP+, but if not this is the way to go! DH and I rode at the end of August for our Anniv. trip, but the kids have not yet and we really want them to experience it!!

I have not heard if this is how they are still doing things on a daily basis or not but at any rate that is how it was being done when we were there and this did work out for us great

WOW. Who knew all that DCA experience was going to come in handy in MK? You could almost write off that trip as a training expense.
HA! wouldn't that me awesome
I am seriously jealous that Cory got to be Magic Kingdom’s Honorary Citizen of the Day. Despite that lack of perks, that is one cool honour.
yeah it was neat of the CM to do that for him, even if I could not get my almost teenager to wear the prince sticker with Prince Charming on it lol. He was a good sport about it all...I'll give him that
You know, that is so true. The fact that it is necessary to have a rope walk is kind of sad. On the other hand, it is hard to have a rope drop without a rope. I'm conflicted. LOL
ha ha so true and yet so confusing
Hmmmmm... THAT is a great way to look at it, a new generation of a Disney Dark Ride. I really like that. That actually helps me like it more.

anything to help! We loved it!!!!

 

[thornton0511]

A Star Struck Momma, More Fun Rides, and a DH Reunited with his Happy Place

We made our way over to Mad Tea Party. DH and myself were not quite up for so much spinning at this time of the day so the kids ran ahead and got in line. We had planned to just watch from the sidelines. After the kids had ran ahead , and we headed to the side by Cheshire Cat, we bumped into some important people…



Alice and the White Rabbit to be exact! They had a family with them and proceeded to the front of the line. Then , to my surprise, a CM showed up with two more very important guests that I had never before seen in person (and no it was not Mariah Carey and her kids lol)……



But it was the Tweedles!!!

I was literally star struck lol! I had never ever seen them in person and inside I was jumping up and down like a 5 year old!!!



The characters got on the ride with the family that they escorted, and were the only ones allowed to ride this time around. I am guessing that this may have been like a make a wish thing or maybe it was someone important that we did not know? I don’t know exactly but the family was having a blast and it was neat to see them having such a great experience!



And these two were a riot!!!

After they exited the ride we watched our kiddos have their go around and then we headed toward Tomorrowland.



Cory wanted to take a spin on Space Mountain. Sydney is still not quite up for this one yet, and apparently neither was DH this early in the morning so we split up and Cory and I proceeded to the standby line for Space.



This ended up being a walk on as well as we made our way down the claustrophobic hall



We ended up getting thorough so fast that I asked Cory if he wanted to go around for another time. He seemed shocked that I would even suggest a back to back SM lol! Apparently neither of us knew where the ride camera was, and I also have to give a shout out to the guy in front of us and his support of Canadia lol!!!!



We made our way back around to the front and walked right back on for ride number two!!



This time around Cory had mastered the art of knowing where the camera is, where as I still am totally clueless…it's hopeless for me and these things I am afraid.

Meanwhile not too far away Sydney and DH were having a little adventure of their own.



They decided a more relaxed approach was in order in the form of the Peoplemover, which also happens to be one of Syd’s favorites in all of Disney lol!



Since we were already on this neck of the woods we decided to have a go at Buzz Lightyear.



Syd and I rode together because we are not so great at this ride, typically, and more enjoy spinning around and around until we get dizzy lol. We, did not too bad this time around and I think maybe we are finally catching on to the concept of aiming the little red light thingy…ha!

After our mission was complete we headed around to the ride photos. DH and Cory have all but mastered the art of this for this ride….



And it’s just a hopeless cause for Syd and I……I am afraid lol


We were pretty much done with Tommorwland but we had to make one more stop first.
If there is one thing you should remember about my family it’s that my DH has obsession with a snack here at MK.



And physically being in Tomorrowland without stopping here is not even a option lol.



That’s right ….Auntie Gravity’s smoothies



At this point…..he becomes completely unreachable as he goes into a subconscious Disney state lol. It’s his happy place!



The kids like them too. Just not at the same level as the DH lol. Plus it is a great use of a snack credit!! And perfect for the hot Sept weather!



With our smoothies in hand we headed back around through Fantasyland and in the direction of Liberty Square.



We had to ,of course, walk through what one of my DIS friends have officially declared as the Tangled Tinkle Spot! And I have to admit that it is very suiting.



I resisted my urge to actually go in and give a photo description of the restrooms but they are so perfectly done! It is my absolutely favorite place for a bio break, just incase you needed that info lol!



So anyways moving ahead we found ourselves in front of the Haunted Mansion. Sydney’s first time ever on this ride was last December and she was so brave. Since then she has been on the one in DL, a few months prior to this trip, but had not had a return yet to the WDW counterpart.



She did not seem to concerned about this ride now lol



We made our way through the interactive queue, which is so well done, and waited by the entrance of the mansion to be let in.



While we were waiting we caught a glimpse of old blinky and his creepy open and shut eyes lol.

I am happy to say that Sydney once again did very well with this ride. And though it’s not her favorite she also no longer fears it and that is good enough for me! We had really had a successful morning and essentially every ride had been a walk on for us. These Sept crowds were definitely spoiling us rotten!!

Up Next Frontierland!!
​

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Oh wow, the Tweedles!!!!! They are pretty rare. How cool to see everyone on the ride. I've never seen this before. I know the Tremaines will ride the carousel, Aladdin and Jas on the carpets, etc, but I've never seen that in person. Totally jealous.

I wish your SM photo was a little clearer, because that shirt actually looks like one of mine, lol.

Ha, Cory totally nailed the Buzz ride photo. That one is wicked!

Tangled Tinkle Spot, What What!

 

[thornton0511]

Oh wow, the Tweedles!!!!! They are pretty rare. How cool to see everyone on the ride. I've never seen this before. I know the Tremaines will ride the carousel, Aladdin and Jas on the carpets, etc, but I've never seen that in person. Totally jealous.
It was really cool to see. I have seen characters ride with kids before but usually it's ones that we see roaming around all the time. Seeing the Tweedles out made it so cool
I wish your SM photo was a little clearer, because that shirt actually looks like one of mine, lol.
lol it probably is
Ha, Cory totally nailed the Buzz ride photo. That one is wicked!
yes the ride photos that the boys in our family do remind me of your great ride photos. It truly is an art lol.
Tangled Tinkle Spot, What What!

you know this!!!

 

[thornton0511]

A Perfect Afternoon in MK Part 1



We continued with our touring and found ourselves in Frontierland in front of one our family’s favorites! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This ride will never ever get old for us!!!



After another walk on with BTMRR is was 11am and I could not believe how much we had accomplished this morning! Sine we had also not had much of a breakfast we found ourselves a bit hungry and decided to head back over to Village Haus for a bite to eat.



After trying this place out in Disneyland I was so thankful to be back at this one! The one there was nothing like WDW’s version. The food was so not great….and so much better here!


We grabbed our food and found our usual table open by the small world window.




The boys has decided to each go with a Chicken Caesar Salad, and one with chocolate cake and the other with chocolate gelato.



And Syd and I decided to split a pepperoni pizza and chocolate gelato. 3 QS credits used.



After we all ate the kids took their usual games with the people below. This has become a bit of a tradition here for our family. This time the name of the game was to see how many people in each boat you can get to wave back at you, using any means necessary to get their attention lol.



After lunch , since we were already there, we decided to go ahead and get the mandatory one ride per trip on IASW over with. No one in our family likes this ride except for Sydney and unfortunately for us, she loves this ride with all of her heart, so we have to make a one ride per trip exception for her.



It was noon the day after Labor Day in a very uncrowned Magic Kingdom, so why in the world were there so many people on IASW? It was truly mind boggling lol.



After finally getting out of there we decided to try something new and went for a boat ride onboard the Liberty Square Riverboat. Why not?


We got some really great pics of BTMRR from an angle we had never seen before.




And there were things that I suppose one cannot see without being on this riverboat too!










cont next post.....

​

 

[thornton0511]

A Perfect Afternoon in MK Part 2

When I left off we were taking a ride on Liberty Square Riverboat....

The kids got bored fairly quickly and Sydney entertained herself by finding ways to annoy her little brother



It was also getting quite hot and this boat was just not going fast enough to keep us cool. It was like a sauna!! We were so ready to get off this boat when it docked lol!



After this there was only one perfect solution to our heat exhaustion we had incurred on that riverboat lol! And thankfully for us we had timed it perfectly with our first FP+ for the day!!



SPLASH MOUNTAIN!!! Yes please!!



This ride had a pretty good size line and I would assume with the high temps and the fact that it was now the middle of the day that made total sense. I had been right on with scheduling this FP for this time as we bypassed all of the people in standby…..sorry guys!

We did not even mess with the ponchos. The last time I did this in Dec I got drenched in the front row with my MIL. This time around I did not even care, that is how hot it was lol. But, just as a precaution I still made sure other family members took the front this time! And wouldn’t you know it we did not get wet at all!!



Go figure!!!



This also happens to be the only ride that I seem to know when it takes your picture too lol!



After Splash we decided it was time for a break and made our way to the exit of MK. But we stopped for a few snacks on the go before heading out. Sydney got her Disney popcorn that she always looks forward to…



And I headed to Adventure land to get my fix…



Oh Dole Whip how I have missed you!! And I went to my happy place as we made our way out of the park and back to the resort.

​

 

[BellaBaby]

Same here. Splash is the only one where I know where the camera is also. I think it's the big flash and obviously the drop!!

Such an awesome time to visit WDW--very low crowds . Weird that IASW was busy!

Great update! Looking forward to more!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

You did get a ton done in such a short time. The one (and only) thing I will miss about September.

I just noticed Sydney's shirt... Is Mickey blowing a bubble?

I quite like the Village Haus even with the Small World view. I always enjoy watching all the tourists heading off to their impending doom.

OK Jenn... Who won the game?????

You know what. Since Sydney loved it so much, why doesn't she just marry it? Seriously, despite my well documented disdain for it, I do fully support all of you riding for your daughter. When you have a little that loves it that much, you do it. I have this sinking suspicion that I might end up doing this soon.

I think everyone should ride the riverboat at some point. There really are some great alternate views from there, so it is absolutely worth doing at least once. Just not when it's hotter than the surface of the sun.

Great planning on just your first FP. Get stuff done when it's quieter, then FP when it gets busier. Solid!

And a Dole Whip capper!! That is how you do it!

 

[thornton0511]

Same here. Splash is the only one where I know where the camera is also. I think it's the big flash and obviously the drop!!
lol yes the fact that they let you know with the obvious flashing lights is why I know to strike a pose
Such an awesome time to visit WDW--very low crowds . Weird that IASW was busy!
yes the crowds were amazing!! Not sure what was up with IASW? Very bizarre
Great update! Looking forward to more!

thank you

You did get a ton done in such a short time. The one (and only) thing I will miss about September.
ha ha...what you won't miss that weather Rob?!
I just noticed Sydney's shirt... Is Mickey blowing a bubble?
lol yes! I found it at Old Navy like a year ago when they suddenly had a great line of vintage Disney shirts. He is blowing a bubble!
I quite like the Village Haus even with the Small World view. I always enjoy watching all the tourists heading off to their impending doom.
lol Rob! They should have some doom music pipped into that area of the Village house for suspense as you watch everyone go in
OK Jenn... Who won the game?????
Oh Rob I am sure it was tie! Actually I do remember Sydney getting quite a few more waves from boats when it was her turn.
You know what. Since Sydney loved it so much, why doesn't she just marry it? Seriously, despite my well documented disdain for it, I do fully support all of you riding for your daughter. When you have a little that loves it that much, you do it. I have this sinking suspicion that I might end up doing this soon.
lol it's all about sacrifices Rob....and IASW might just be one that you have to make then...may the force be with you
I think everyone should ride the riverboat at some point. There really are some great alternate views from there, so it is absolutely worth doing at least once. Just not when it's hotter than the surface of the sun.
NO KIDDING!! note to self....ride in Winter lol
Great planning on just your first FP. Get stuff done when it's quieter, then FP when it gets busier. Solid!
I was quite happy with how our day had turned out! Scheduling a water ride in the afternoon and making it the last ride you do before heading back to the resort was the way to go!! Even if we did not get soaked like prior times
And a Dole Whip capper!! That is how you do it!

Absolutely!!!

 

[thornton0511]

Back to Magic Kingdom for an Evening of Fun!


After an afternoon break of relaxing and swimming at the resort we headed back to MK for some more magic and fun!



Since we were entering this time without the escort of cast members and a rope I took the time to finally notice and enjoy all of the fall decorations.


Oh how I loved the colors and the pumpkins!!! So awesome!



And we even managed to get a pretty good shot with the kiddos too!!



We made our way to Adventureland but got sidetracked by all of these ducks lol!! They were everywhere!!



Don’t worry we got back on track within no time! I love walking into Adventureland this way….totally cool!!



The family wanted to ride to what I refer to as the Magic Carpet Ride of Death. The standby wait time was 15 minutes.



I always lose this battle and have to ride this. Sigh. It is really only a matter of time before the carpet will eventually tilt to far and I will fall to my death.



After surviving we decided to try our luck against all sorts of beasts on the most dangerous cruise through the Jungle. This is not a ride that we hit every trip but it has been awhile since we had seen the backside of water, and the standby was also 15 minutes for this ride, so we figured why not!



After Jungle Cruise we made our way over to Pirates. We got in line and but for some reason we got out of line. I’m not sure if the line was unusually long or what caused us to not stay but we didn’t.



Instead the boys took a bio break and Syd and I played around in this area by the restrooms. This made for a killer game of I Spy!



After the boys returned we decided that is was time for dinner, and since we had no ADR’s this evening it was totally up to us on where we would eat. It had been sometime since we had eaten at Pecos so that is where we headed!

We had no issue getting our food and finding a table. I had forgotten how much I love the theming in here! Now for the food, and I apologize for the horrible Iphone pics.



Cory went with the adult BBQ Pork Sandwich. Since he is not a huge fan of FF or corn on the cob he went with Apple slices instead. Not sure how he also ended up with grapes though lol. He said it was really good!



DH and myself both went with the Deluxe Angus Cheeseburger complete with bacon and onion ring. Holy cow this was so much on one burger lol! We also went with chocolate and carrot cake. And never forget the plastic cheese that you can get to put on your fries! This meal was a heart attack waiting to happen. Only acceptable in Disney people!!


And last but not least Sydney went with the child’s BBQ pork sandwich with fries and grapes. She also said that the sandwich was very good!

I have too many pics in this post so I have to split it up...
To be continued……​

 

[thornton0511]

Back to Magic Kingdom for an Evening of Fun! Part 2



After dinner we headed over to BTMRR for our second FP+ of the day! Nothing says fun like a runaway train at night! Also DH gave the kids each a glow ring that he had found , I think, at Target before we left for our trip and thought the kids would enjoy them at night on our trip.

The line for BTMRR was pretty much non existent and I feel so silly even using the FP line when standby is a walk on, but whatever.



After our scheduled ride we decided to walk back around and go again through the standby line lol. It’s almost a crime to not do this ride twice in a row when the line is a walk on!!!



We honestly probably would have rode a few more times but it was now time for our last FP+ of the day…and we did not want to miss this one!!



Since we had enjoyed our first ever ride this morning we were super excited to ride again a night time to see how it’s different all lit up! Being able to ride this both first thing in the morning at rope drop using Standby and then again at night with as a FP+ is definitely the way to go if you want to get more than one ride in a day and also get to experience the ride during the day and night IMO.



Even though the crowds were low the line was still about an hour long for this ride...and it was nearing the time for fireworks too!! So I was happy that we had the FP+ otherwise we would not have gotten to ride. We literally walked right on!



I love love love the new generation of animatronics!



This ride is beautifully done even if it is not as long as I would hope!



GAH cannot get enough!!



I especially love the scene a the end with Snow White and the Wicked Witch right outside her cottage!!

Now I want to mention something that we discovered on our ride this time. Thanks to the couple that was sitting behind us, they informed us that if we all work together to swing the car that you are sitting in that it makes the ride more fun. I will say this is no easy task and like rowing a boat. Everyone in the whole set has to work together and lean to the right and lean to the left in unison to make the whole car section swing side to side…..but I gotta tell ya it was awesome!! Especially when you are coming down on a hill and can manage to get everyone to lean in the same direction of the hill as you are coming down (you want to lean in the direction the track is going) we had a blast!! I will also mention that the cars are easier to rock if the person you are sitting next to has a little weight to them. I was sitting next to Sydney and it was quite a workout to get ours going. If you have ridden this ride and not tried this you really should give it a try next time!



So after enjoying another ride on 7DMT we decided to go for a spin on the teacups! This is so much fun at night!!! The kids took a cup and DH and I went on one ourselves since there was no one in line for this lol!
Apparently DH got spun around a little to much and we had to stop and take a break afterward so he could get his bearings back lol…..poor DH!!



Since he was still a little nauseous we decided to go with something a little more tame and headed to people mover….plus it’s Sydney’s favorite ride lol. She is so silly.



This would end up being our last ride for the evening as it was getting quite late at this point and we were pretty darn exhausted. We had a very successful day today and managed to basically ride everything we wanted, some even multiple times. Tomorrow morning would bring a new adventure that we had never experienced before and we were super excited, well most of us anyways!



See ya real soon!!!









​

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Ha, well that is quite the different entrance from earlier. I like arriving later in the day since it feels more relaxed somehow.

You kill me with the "Magic Carpet Ride of Death". At least my fear of Small World has psycho killer dolls.

I'm the same in that I don't need to ride Jungle Cruise every trip. But at 15 minutes... yeah you do it. And boy do I have a Jungle Cruise story. But... no spoilers.

I am really looking forward to riding 7DMT again. I got a FP for late, so it should be dark. I think that will make a huge difference.

Hmmmm... that is an interesting teaser for the next day there Jenn.