They Tried To Make Me Go To Rehab, But I Said No No No! Updt 11/7: Solo no more Pg.27

[earthfaries]

Great update! We love both of those rides, they're great. I love the fireworks too

Oh, I'm going to miss visiting Epcot next month...it's okay though I keep telling myself...we just spent 2 days at Epcot just 7 little months ago...this next trip is a bonus trip, we don't have to go to Epcot...

We LOVE Epcot!!!

Great pictures, like being there again

Can't wait for more, and I'm glad you got your photobucket account fixed. I had no idea you had a limit , then could upgrade!

 

[jake&samsmom]

Great update! We love both of those rides, they're great. I love the fireworks too

Oh, I'm going to miss visiting Epcot next month...it's okay though I keep telling myself...we just spent 2 days at Epcot just 7 little months ago...this next trip is a bonus trip, we don't have to go to Epcot...

We LOVE Epcot!!!

Great pictures, like being there again

Can't wait for more, and I'm glad you got your photobucket account fixed. I had no idea you had a limit , then could upgrade!

Hi! I am lovin' me some Epcot too!

I was thinking that so far, this has only been about my first 6 hours in Epcot, and there's so much more photos to come!

MNSSHP in 34 days?! I am excited for you!

 

[snowwhite325]

I am all caught up Your WS photos are gorgeous...I didn't get to spend much time there on my trip but your pictures make me feel as if I am there

 

[jake&samsmom]

Now that I have finished touring the World Showcase, I head on towards Future World:

After a few hours in the WS, I was actually beginning to "miss" FW! The Epcot ball seemed to get bigger and bigger as I got closer -- it made me feel like an old friend was was there waiting for me with open arms.

Now I am in a familiar place, and my feet lead me to one of my family's favorite Epcot rides:

Test Track!


It was around 4:30 pm, and (surprise!) the standby line was over an hour long. Fortunately, TT has a single rider line, and I purposefuly get in it (another perk of being a solo traveller ) I get to the vehicle loading dock in no time. Yay!

I love TT because I generally like rides that are speedy and exciting but do not like the corkscrews, falls or loops associated with roller coasters. Hence, TT is perfect for me! I remember how scared I was during my first TT ride, and I almost took the chicken exit. But encouraged by a much older lady who boarded the car before me, I rode on and had one of the best ride experiences of my life!

I'll post my new TT ride photo when I get my photopass CD

Next, I hurry on to:

Another favorite WDW ride of mine!

Too bad there's no single rider line, no more FP's for the day, and the standby wait was over a hundred minutes

I mentally kick myself in the behind, regretting I didn't get a FP before I had lunch at Le Cellier.

I linger around The Land pavillion, hoping for a miracle......

And came it did in the form of a pair of Fast Passes handed to me by a nice couple about to exit the Land. They were headed back to their resort, tired and needing naps, and could not wait 30 more minutes for their FP's to be current!

In a few minutes, I get to ride in the center area, third row. I leave my crocs on the ground and I begin to soar....I am Soarin' over beautiful California.

I smell the exhilirating scent of fresh oranges, the soothing scent of pine trees....I pretend to dip my feet in the foamy waves in Malibu...and best of all, I get a VIP view of the fireworks finale at DL! I Soarin'!

In honor of the boys, I head on to:

And ride the clam-mobile

I get to enjoy this ride without distractions, and I savor the sight of every undersea creature featured here, real or otherwise.

I also had time to see:

But after seeing it three or four times last October, it sadly didn't seem as funny as I remembered. The jokes were fairly similar to last year's, and Crush's accent wasn't as "Califorinia surfer dude" as before. However, I still think it's fun to see, esp. for the kiddies.

I decide to take the elevator upstairs to see the Manatee:

We always skip the second floor of The Seas; so now (without the boys), I could take my time and see the sea life exhibits.

I tried to take pictures of the sharks, angelfish, turtles and rays, but the reflection of the aquarium walls foiled my photography plan I go through the observation tunnel - it gives one a feeling of walking underwater, a very unique experience.

I glance at my watch, and it's almost time for my Royal Banquet Dinner at Akershus in Norway.

But wait....Surely I couldn't meet the Princesses dressed like pauper in a sweaty t-shirt?! That would be an awful shame So I freshen up in one of the restrooms close to the Seas' elevator (very clean and roomy, btw ). I change into the shirt I picked out months ago for the upcoming royal occasion.


Up next:

Thanks for staying tuned!

 

[jake&samsmom]

I am all caught up Your WS photos are gorgeous...I didn't get to spend much time there on my trip but your pictures make me feel as if I am there

Thanks for being here so soon I hope you had a blast! I can't wait to read more of your TR

 

[jake&samsmom]

I leave The Seas pavillion, ready for an encounter of the Royal kind.

As I walk, I scope out my favored Illumnations viewing spot which is located right in the very front of the Showcase Plaza, between FW's two boat docks.

I overhear some people in the crowd say that they'll be hanging out in the outdoor patio area of Cantina San Angel and watch Illuminations from there.

I reach my destination right on time:

This is the awning above the entryway:

An upclose view of the Queen's proclamation:

I check-in at the podium, and am called to be seated in less than 5 minutes.

I overflowing with delight. It has been one of my dreams since I was little girl not just to meet the princesses, but to be one of them!

I notice the empty throne at the entrance to the main banquet hall:

I impatiently wait for my turn to take my first princess photo -- with Belle!

She calls me "your royal highness" and I make polite conversation about how I left the Princes at home She signs my autograph book (the one I "borrowed" from the boys) and I marvel at her beautiful ballgown.

I then had to say goodbye to Belle, and I was lead to my seat by a waiter.

A view from my table:

The character handler comes by and asks me (with sincere compassion in her voice), "Are you by yourself?"


I happily answer that I was Then she reassures me that she'll make sure all the Princesses come and visit with me at my table.


In a few minutes, Princess Aurora stops by:

Followed quickly by Jasmine:

Isn't she just so gorgeous?!

I meant Jasmine, y'all!


My meal arrives. I ordered the Lamb Stew which was excellent, except for the very little amount of lamb it contains. Maybe at best it had 5 very small pieces. It's OK, I was still full from Le Cellier anyway, and too excited to eat. There was Royalty to meet, afterall! (btw, I even skipped the appetizer/salad bar!)



Continued in the next post

 

[jake&samsmom]

As I partake of my meal, I observe the other Princesses making their rounds:

Cinderella:

Then {gasp} Ariel!!!

My favorite Princess makes her way to my table and asks me where I was from and did I swim all the way from Houston? I reply I had to fly in since it was too long of a swim.

I show her my Ariel crocs jibbitz, and she says, "Wow, I'll always be walking with you!" That was so cute. I love the way the Princesses are in full character mode, not just for the children, but also for a child-at-heart like me.

We take a photo together:

Then she walks away....


Finally, Cinderella comes by and signs my autograph book. I have an orange sharpie, and she comments on how the color is the same as her pumpkin back home at the Castle She also says my autograph book is so fancy, did my fairygodmother give it to me? I am a loss at how to answer her, so I shyly reply, "sometimes you have to be your own fairygodmother." She pauses, and smiles widely at me.

Whenever I look at this photo above, I am almost embarrassed at how huge my grin is. It does capture how truly happy I was.

How I wished the moment could have lasted longer.....it was pure Disney Magic.

I am given a photo package which is included in all Akershus meals. It is a matted 8x10 and some 4x6's of my first photo with Belle at the entrance. An awesome momento of my wonderful experience here.

Having met all the Princesses and also finished my dessert (which was really good, by the way) I head out, but take one final look at the majestic tapestries and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling:

I could not leave the royal banquet hall until I had a photo of the rightful occupant of the Akershus throne:

As I walk outside, I smell the sweet scent of fresh schoolbread baking at the Kringla bakery just in front of Akershus:

How did they grow grass on the bakery's roof?

I joyfully walk towards FW to reserve my place for Illuminations.....



Up next:
Illuminations, of course!
How a real commando does EMH at Epcot.
Stay tuned

 

[Backstage_Gal]

Great update and fabulous pictures.
Thanks!!

 

[tonilea]

I am loving your TR!

 

[kathleen27]

Great updates & photos!!!
Glad you enjoyed your meal with the princesses.
You do look so happy to meet them. Wonderful!

Sounds like you fit a lot in!!!
How nice to be given a fp for soarin'!!!

We'll have to add Voices of Liberty to our to do list!

 

[Kat73]

Oh I'm really enjoying reading your TR! Your solo day at Epcot has me really looking forward to my own solo visit next year. So much to see that I've missed in all the other trips! And the princess dinner pics are adorable

 

[Disney Brat]

Hi! I just found your TR and I am loving it!! Great job, and I am along for the ride!!

 

[BellaSoleil]

I've been waiting for Akershush!

You had really beautiful princesses! We are going child-less in January. I'm sure I will be just as excited and child-like as you.

 

[jake&samsmom]

I've been waiting for Akershush!

You had really beautiful princesses! We are going child-less in January. I'm sure I will be just as excited and child-like as you.

You will enjoy it! The dessert is TDF!

Hi! I just found your TR and I am loving it!! Great job, and I am along for the ride!!

Thanks, I hope you continue to enjoy the trip!

Oh I'm really enjoying reading your TR! Your solo day at Epcot has me really looking forward to my own solo visit next year. So much to see that I've missed in all the other trips! And the princess dinner pics are adorable

A solo trip!! Yay! I think it is so fulfilling to do anything and everything you want to do without being held back by group dynamics Something to try at least once.

Great updates & photos!!!
Glad you enjoyed your meal with the princesses.
You do look so happy to meet them. Wonderful!

Sounds like you fit a lot in!!!
How nice to be given a fp for soarin'!!!

We'll have to add Voices of Liberty to our to do list!

I hope you do get to see them, you won't be disappointed!

I am loving your TR!

Thanks for reading along....

Great update and fabulous pictures.
Thanks!!

Thank you so much for your encouraging words!


You all motivate me to keep on writing. Update coming up really soon...

 

[jake&samsmom]

There are plenty of good viewing spots for Illuminations around the WS lagoon. But the most perfect IMHO, by far, is the World Showcase Plaza located between the two boat docks/gift shops. You get a centered and symmetrical view of the show as the imagineers intended it. (To me, watching Illuminations from another location is like sitting at the rear or side of a concert stage.)

This area fills up quickly, so I get there an hour before the scheduled 9pm start. Btw, everyone in this area is requested by the CMs to stay seated so no one's view is obstructed.

I strike up a conversation with a family sitting beside me, two sisters and the one sister's two little girls. The sister with the daughters was attending a convention at the Contemporary, and the other sister was watching the kids for her when she was in meetings. The company was paying for their stay at the CR (some guys have all the luck ). I told them I was solo-ing it (at least for now) and how much I was enjoying not having to deal with the drama that comes with the kids. They said they understood exactly what I meant - the little girls had meltdowns regarding the heat, afternoon rain, crowds - but overall they were having a great (first) visit to the World so far.

Close by us sat a whole group of Brazillian teenagers (perhaps numbering more than 60 or so, I knew they were from Brazil because of their flag/emblem on their shirts). They started to stand up, sing, chant, jump, dance and cheer. I silently prayed that they would stop and sit when Illuminations started. I was worried. The CMs ask them to sit. They do so for the time being.

The rain also came and went in light drizzles, but I had my trusty umbrella, and I kept opening it, then storing it as the night progressed.

The lights go dark and the announcement begins....

"Good evening, and welcome.
We've gathered here tonight,
around the fire,
as people of all lands have gathered
for thousands and thousands
of years before us,
to share the light and to share a story
an amazing story,
as old as time itself
but still being written.
And though we each of us have
our own individual stories to tell
a true adventure emerges
when we bring them all together as one.
I hope you enjoy our story tonight --
Reflections of Earth."


{Whenever I concentrate really hard, I can still clearly hear it in my head}

A few minutes into the show, the group does stand up, partially blocking my view. I decide that no one is going to ruin this for me, so I make my way through the horde of standing people, and plant myself in a small empty spot in front of them.


A final display of fireworks at the end:

A beautiful send-off, encouraging all of us to embrace the future!


I had some friends who stayed at the BC last summer, and never "saw" lluminations nor Wishes. They said why fight the crowds would they could comfortably view Illuminations from their balcony? I just smile at that statement. Some people just don't get it.

Illuminations is much more than a fireworks show. It is a spectacle -- an extravaganza of lasers, lights, water and fireworks set to a symphonic world-music score.

To say that Illuminations is merely fireworks is a travesty in my book.


Up next:
Commando-ing Epcot EMH
Stay tuned!

 

[Nicole786]

I love your illuminations photo, reading that paragraph gave me chills, I can hear it as I read it!! David and I do that part sometime and than we "blow" out the candle like at the end. Yes, I have it on my iPhone and we've practically memorized it lol

 

[tonilea]

Illuminations is much more than a fireworks show. It is a spectacle -- an extravaganza of lasers, lights, water and fireworks set to a symphonic world-music score.

To say that Illuminations is merely fireworks is a travesty in my book.


Up next:
Commando-ing Epcot EMH
Stay tuned!

You have really captured the wonder of Illuminations. I love it so much.

 

[DisneyTiger]

You kept your cool more than I would have with those people standing in front of you!

Illuminations is truly a spectacle. The first time I saw it, I remember being so emotional. My dad had passed away unexpectedly about a year prior to the night I was there and for some reason it just made me feel closer to him. Every time that I've seen it since, I get the same feeling. I really do tear up just thinking about it. We're going next month for the first time with our kids and I can hardly wait to share the experience with them. It will be another emotional night for me, I'm sure!

I'm sure you have already been asked this, but what kind of camera do you have? It took such great pics of the fire works. I'm in the marker for a new one. Thanks and LOVING the TR!!!

 

[jake&samsmom]

I love your illuminations photo, reading that paragraph gave me chills, I can hear it as I read it!! David and I do that part sometime and than we "blow" out the candle like at the end. Yes, I have it on my iPhone and we've practically memorized it lol

I got a new iPhone (from DH) too! Oh Nicole, its so complicated for a low-tech older gal like me! It took me days to figure the basics! Anyhow, I'm going to copy you and try to get DH to upload the Illuminations anouncement for me.

You have really captured the wonder of Illuminations. I love it so much.

I love it too, thank you for the generously kind comments

You kept your cool more than I would have with those people standing in front of you!

Illuminations is truly a spectacle. The first time I saw it, I remember being so emotional. My dad had passed away unexpectedly about a year prior to the night I was there and for some reason it just made me feel closer to him. Every time that I've seen it since, I get the same feeling. I really do tear up just thinking about it. We're going next month for the first time with our kids and I can hardly wait to share the experience with them. It will be another emotional night for me, I'm sure!

I'm sure you have already been asked this, but what kind of camera do you have? It took such great pics of the fire works. I'm in the marker for a new one. Thanks and LOVING the TR!!!

I am also an emotional person, and Illuminations also leaves me sobbing, it's quite embarrassing!

Thank you for sharing your story about your Dad. I'm sure he'll be there, viewing Illuminations right along with you and his precious grandchildren.

I have a Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS 8MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom in Chocolate Brown (phew, that's a mouthful!) I really love its' compactness! Not to mention how easy it is to point and shoot (very important esp. for a technologically-challenged person like me! )

 

[jake&samsmom]

I linger around the WS Plaza, waiting for the crowd to thin out. It will be my first ever EMH! Yay! Btw, I always almost follow UG's recommendation to avoid parks with EMH's because they get really congested - my boys (Jake, Sam and esp. DH) have very low tolerance to big crowds.

But since I was going solo.....

First stop was the Odyssey Center (photo taken earlier in the day):

To get my EMH wristband from a station there.

This place is now used for private functions. And being nosy, I peeped in and saw a sweet 16 party in full swing. Wow, I hope that kid appreciates how lucky she is to have parents who can afford a celebration like that! And deep inside, I hope that in the future, I could do something similar for my own children (Heck, I can dream big, I'm in Disney! )

Right beside Odyssey is TT, and when I get there, the single rider line is virtually empty, so I walk-on to the vehicle! Yay again! I finally figure out where the camera for the ride photo is, so I make sure to smile nicely this time (PP photo to be posted later).

On the speedy part of the ride I raise both arms up in the air, and one of my rings nearly flies off! Oh, and my hair goes flying in every direction (shoulda tied it), it takes a long time to comb it through.

At this point I realize I hadn't called OKW to check if my room was ready (LOL, it was past 10pm!) I assume it was, but call anyway to make sure Of course it was all set to be occupied. But I wasn't done with Epcot yet.....

I was getting thirsty so I headed to Club Cool, but was surprised to see it closed. I guess I didn't do my Dis homework and mistakenly assumed it would be open for EMH. So, I walk to The Land's Sunshine Seasons to grab a cold bottle of water.

If you get the chance to go to Sunshine Seasons at The Land pavillion, look up at the hot air balloons in the center of the dome. These four balloons represent the four seasons, and this particular one represents Spring:

I see that The Land boat ride has no one in line. I get on a boat with three other people. I sit in the front row

One of my favorite parts of this ride is the Biotechnology lab:

And later on, I ask a CM of it was a real working environment, or is it just for show. I was told that the Lab is a real sterile research environment where several USDA scientists actually work on-site, performing research on crop improvement.

I still had an extra FP to use for:

So I walked over there after The Land boat ride. The FP line was non-existent , so I approached a CM to ask where to go. The CM asked me to wait a few minutes, then ushered me (and a few others who had FP's) to a door that leads to the backstage of the Behind the Seeds tour. We take a "shortcut" through the back of the pavillion to get to the holding area right before the Soarin' theater! It was so cool to see the building from that perspective. I saw where the scientists enter the lab from the outside. And all the unpainted/unadorned areas of the Land Pavillion. I wanted to take photos but I wasn't sure if it was allowed, so I didn't.

I get to ride on the topmost row of Soarin' this time....barefoot as always.

After Soarin' I suddenly felt exhausted, and was ready to go "home" to OKW.

On my way out, I pass by:

With no lines, I gave in to the commando instinct, and rode on

I thought the initial history-filled minutes were interesting, but enjoyed the last moments of the ride best. It was cool to see my vision of tomorrow in animation with my face photoshopped in it!

I say goodbye to the huge golfball, and walk unhurriedly to the OKW bus stop.

I look back and reflect on my first solo day.

I leave Epcot with a deep sense of fulfillment.




Up next:
Gorgeous OKW
Stay tuned!