Three Sisters Skipping Down Main Street - Final shot(s) 3/28

[Suzflee]

Part I – It’s all about the planning

How do you prepare for a visit to the Mouse? Well, we all know the answer to that but my silly sisters thought you just go to MapQuest to get driving directions or book a flight, throw some shorts, sunglasses and maybe a light jacket into your suitcase and away you go.

I had to do the real work and spend hours upon hours getting blood-shot eyes while reading strategies and tips, and traumatizing myself by listening to live radio 365 while hunting down park hours, parade times, EMH days and ride closings. I was the planner! I was on a mission.

I learned from the experts back in 2004 when our family (DH, DD, DS) spent a week soaking in the Magic. I planned the most perfect vacation with the sage advice (advise? that one always gets me ) of the wise Dis’ers. Really, Zzub and Kay wouldn’t have liked that report because nothing, literally nothing went wrong.

Well, there was panic when we lost our camera bag with car keys (it was immediately found at a merch cart) and when I left my pouch (on a string) by the deserted Sorcerer’s hat (met the CM who found it as I sprinted back down Hollywood Blvd to retrieve it) and when the car window wouldn’t roll up when we parked at Epcot (handyman DH had it fixed in a snap!) and, well, we were chosen to be Family of the Day at Epcot (big reward, not a little Lala certificate) and were given the Test Track fastpass for the day! Really, it truly was a Magical week!

So, since I was taking on the responsibility of making this trip a forever memory for our first sisters-only vacation, I had work to do.

I scoured the Strategies and Adult boards for weeks. Took notes, printed out Haunted Mansion & Hidden Mickey tidbits and little know facts about the parks and read everything I could until my DH reminded me that he was out of socks and the light in the frig was working really well…could have been because the shelves were bare?

OK, so I knew it all. I could take a break….for a day…until I happened upon the Trip Reports. Oh my! I stumbled upon the funniest lawyer on the Dis (‘cuz I’m a penny pincher and I liked his title). Some lady’s responses to his posts had me so when I reached the end of his I started with her PSA’s. Another mom had two kids similar to mine so I then ventured over to her TR. UtahMama’s length was a little intimidating for me to but loved her responses to everyone else's posts.

Zzub, Kay, Lala and now Nebo had me laughing and spewing food at my monitor at all hours. I was hooked – I was addicted. “No, really sweetie, I haven’t been in this chair since you left for school 9 hours ago. I just put my PJ’s back on a little while ago…”

Could I still write with some creative flair? Did everything my wonderful Catholic grammar nuns teach me still reside somewhere in my brain?

So here you have it – three sisters do Disney.

No kids, no spouses – bring on the Mouse!

 

[Suzflee]

How does one leave the kids behind to go to the World?

Back in October, Big Sis (BS) sends Little Sis (me) an email. You know the one…”sisters are your sisters. Girlfriends are your sisters. Love your sistahs, do lunch, go somewhere…” So I hit that ever so convenient reply button and type, “So where are we going?”

The ball gets rolling and I’m thinking. “NYC, baby!” but the good Lord had other plans because it just so happens that Middle Sis (MS) has a conference in Orlando in February, BS is only a 3 hour drive away and LS (me) has frequent flyer miles. Throw in a cousin who works for ESPN and we’re ready to plan Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride!

“What a great vacation,” you’re thinking. “No crowds in February, perfect weather, how many days do you have?”

Well, I have learned that one should be grateful – no matter what – so don’t ask about days, ask about hours. Due to family and work schedules and an incredible opportunity to spend non-stressful, non-holiday time with our parents down in Miami, we have fourteen hours. That’s right, 14 hours to do it all.

Now do you see why I had to spend so much time researching?

Back to the characters

BS – Florida resident, kids all grown, getting ready to take Grandkids to Disney (I volunteered to be her tour guide)

MS – conference girl, hoping her feets get some rest ‘cuz we got us some walking to do. 2 DD’s – one in college, one at home

LS – me – the baby in the family, by A LOT! No ages necessary but MS is in my decade for a few more months then I’m alone here. I leave a DD and DS behind who know their mama is loco en la cabeza for the Magic.

That equals 3 princesses ready to have some fun.


All DH’s left at home. Thanks guys!

Next up – Travel Day

 

[princessjv]

I'm on board!

I can totally understand the pain that the trip boards bring...I mean pain in my butt. I get up aftere reading and OUCHIE...my rear hurts from ... They are great, aren't they! Bring you back to and we are not even there!

Bring it on...

 

[Suzflee]

Princessjv - thanks for posting! My first reader

Totally relate to the pain, my knees too but we're packing for another trip (snow instead of sun this time) so I can only sit for so long.

Thanks for reading and I'll check yours out also as your BOGO (my BS's DH's favorite phrase) caught my attention

 

[Grammyof2]

I'm in!

14 hours? How many chapters is that

 

[Suzflee]

Grammy - welcome! I've seen your posts elsewhere and love the pic of you and your sig other along with your grandkids. Stay tuned for how I plan to take mine (OK I'm a long way off since oldest is only 12...) to the Mouse!

With the upcoming chapter on people watching I've been able to stretch it to almost 10. We definitely made the most of our time!

Thanks for reading

 

[DisneyObsession]

I'm with ya!!!

Can't wait to hear how it went, as I am heading to Disney in Nov with 4 friends...three of which are leaving husbands behind!

 

[NMAmy]

Fourteen HOURS?? Ok, this I gotta read.

 

[mvazul]

14 HOURS??????? I had a hard time with only being able to spend 2 days and only 2 parks at Disney. I don't think I could do it in 14 hours!! Of course, if I had the chance, you can bet I would not turn it down!! And if I could do it with my sister? Well, that would be awesome!! I'm trying to find a way for my sister, mom and I to go alone with no guys or kids. Maybe one of these days!

Looking forward to reading more!

 

[Suzflee]

I am heading to Disney in Nov with 4 friends...three of which are leaving husbands behind!

Hmmm - and does the one husband know he is the only husband? Is he a golfer? Boater? Hanging out by the pool by himself?
That trip report would be an interesting read...

Fourteen HOURS?? Ok, this I gotta read.

Yes, sad as it may be, but we survived!

14 HOURS??????? I don't think I could do it in 14 hours!! Of course, if I had the chance, you can bet I would not turn it down!! And if I could do it with my sister? Well, that would be awesome!! Maybe one of these days!

Well, we didn't quite do it all but I was amazed with how much we accomplished. Especially after the Sis' complimented me on not feeling rushed.
Don't wait until "one of these days" - just do it!
Welcome aboard!

 

[Suzflee]

Part III – Getting to the World

I’m flying. (I can fly, I can fly, I can fly...try to get that out of your head) When was the last time I was on a plane? Post 9-11 but I can’t remember the exact date. What’s with the Ziploc bags? 3 oz of shampoo? Take my shoes off? OK, I’m a veteran flier. I was blessed with a Daddy who worked for the airlines and I got to travel. Money was tight when all the big bros and sis’ were little but by the time I came around (I told you it was A LOT) I was spoiled.

Forget the Ziplocs. I’m going out on a limb and checking a bag. Don’t think I’ve ever checked the bathroom essentials…you never knew when us standbys would be stranded in an airport overnight. So along with the Unofficial Guide, notebook, computer printouts and maps, I packed a change of clothes in the carryon, just in case…

Got to the airport plenty early with my SWP – Secret Water Plan. My H2O bottle should be attached to my hip as it goes wherever I go. How would I survive not having water?

“Buy a bottle after you go through security,” BS says when she called to taunt me with “We’re in the room!” while I’m still 5 hours away.

Are you crazy? Remember why Zzub’s TR grabbed my attention? I don’t pay for water – it should be FREE! That would be $2.49 that could go towards the elusive Dole Whip!

So here’s the plan. Bring my small 8 oz bottle with me. Hang out in the main lobby as long as possible, drink my fill and send an empty bottle thru the scanner.

Score! It worked! Now to find a water fountain…

First one, dry as a desert (not to be confused with the desserts waiting for me in the parks), 2nd one, barely a dribble. 3rd one – yes, thank you! Good thing cuz you know how warm it is when everybody first gets on the plane and the vents just blow hot air? Major coughing fit attacks me, but I’ve got my water. My window seat partner is grateful too since I was on the verge of coughing up a lung.

I’m guessing you know what’s coming up….8 oz of water, cup of Sprite during the flight…that’s right, we’re getting ready to land and I’ve had my fill – and then some!

As we land, the Flight Attendant asks those of us with later connections to please let the ones on a tight schedule go first. I’ve got 20 mins and only have to go from Gate 17 to gate 12, but my bladder, I mean schedule is very tight so I’m out of there!

While sitting at the gate waiting for my next flight, I engage in a little people watching. DD definitely got my genes there but DH thinks we’re crazy. We can hear conversations several tables away at restaurants and she doesn't miss a detail on the accessories - "Did you see her belt? Mom, I need a pair of shoes like that!"

Airports - one of the best PW spots around.

What do I notice most? I’m checking out what folks are doing. I should probably reveal that I’m a counter (I teach 3’s, I’m constantly counting heads). Out of those who are doing something other than talking or PW, we’ve got a ratio of 17:6. 17 Techies, 6 readers. Yup, several of those techies are multi-tasking techies. Cell phones, blackberries, laptops.

6 readers – SIX! And in reality it’s truly only 4 since two have chosen those highly informative sleazy mags. Hmmmm…what is this world coming to?

Leg two of the trip is uneventful. Sat next to another reader. First partner only looked up from Michael Crichton long enough to make sure my lung wasn’t in my lap. This one was enjoying the in-flight magazine. Me, I'm writing furiously, trying to let him read over my shoulder so he'll ask me where I'm going.

"What am I writing? Funny you should ask...it's a TR, that's a Trip report, for the Disboards, which would be where you can find out anything you want to know about Disney. You should read them sometime. You'll be , especially if you find Zzub's."

"Who's Zzub? He's a fan of Buzz Lightyear."

"No, he's a grown man, actually. At least, I think he is..."

Next up - Can I say where we stayed?

 

[Suzflee]

Part IV - The suites named after a horse

We actually land early, my luggage is in the first 10 bags on the conveyor belt and the sisters pull up right on cue.

They’ve already checked into our hotel so we stop at UNO to eat. Yummy gargonzola salad with a spinach mushroom pizza that we split 3 ways for under $10 each. My kind of meal.

Am I allowed to write about non-resort accomodations?

Only ones I’ve read on TR’s have been on-site. We stayed at the Palomino with a 1 bedroom suite just outside DTD for the Manager's $79 rate. More than adequate breakfast buffet, (but go early before the non-gloved attendant moves the muffins by hand and refuses to refill the water because it's too far to go) quiet halls and comfy beds. I posted a review with pics if you want to check it out.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1372608

The sis’ are a little apalled about how early I want to be out the door in the am but I’m in charge so we hit the hay and have dreams of princesses dancing in our heads.

Stay tuned for Pin trading fever.

 

[hjd0411]

Part III – Getting to the World

Airports - one of the best PW spots around.

I know - I work at one, and it is fabulous to watch the people go by!! Couldn't work in a better place!!

Love your trip report - I'll be interested to see how much you are able to fit into 14 hours at WDW!! When I go I'll be there for 16 days - and I'm not sure how I'll fit everything in!!

Keep on writing - thanks.

Heather

 

[thptrek]

I do a lot of flying and I just laugh at the whole "let people who have tight connections off first." It's every person for themselves!!!

 

[Suzflee]

HJD - thanks for posting. I love airports. Delayed flight? - no biggie - I always have a book and the entertainment is free!

thptrek - better be the first one to stand up and get in the aisle or you're out of luck. Thanks for joining!

 

[Suzflee]

HJD - forgot to mention....

16 DAYS? - that's one serious birthday party

 

[Suzflee]

Part V - We only have 14 hours; let’s go!

Of course, we were not out the door on time,
(couldn’t have been because the bathtub wouldn’t drain or cuz BS couldn’t find her sunglasses and forgot the snacks that she was in charge of and had to take the four flights of stairs two times since the elevator was too slow…)

but the delay could have been because I wowed them with a present from Mickey to welcome them to his world….

(this is actually what the lanyards looked like at the end of the day!

Yup, that's it, must have been because they were so excited to get their new pins. Mickey thought they’d have a good time pin trading and boy, did they!

BS and MS relished in the hunt once they caught a glimpse of the options that were available. We each managed to score a pin with the three princesses and they ended up buying more halfway through the day because they only had “keepers” on their lanyards and wanted to continue trading.

I love trading because it’s a great way to interact with the CM’s. Disney Dan blessed us with his words when he traded with two of us (which got him a compliment card. Did you know that in Guest Relations on Main Street across from Expo Hall you can submit info for a CM to be recognized for his/her service?)

So Disney Dan in the Buzz store handed me my pin and said, “Do you know why this pin is so special?”

“Because it will make you even more beautiful than you already are!”

Yes, cue the gag response at the corniness but what middle-aged (did I really just type that?) woman wouldn’t smile at the compliment?

Anybody ever get a good trade from this guy? (Great idea MS!)

Coming up next – MGM here we come!

 

[tiggerbell]

I'm in!!! Love reports where sisters go together!

I also noticed there were 3 lanyard gifts - and as another "much younger" youngest (26 years between the oldest and myself), I applaud you. I'm making gift bags for the next trip - there's 4 of us going - and there will be 4 gift bags!

I can't put the pictures of them up on my pre-trip report before we go though, my sister will see them! (But I also think Mickey will want some pin trading to occur!)

 

[Suzflee]

Part VI - We still have 14 hours – Are we there yet?

We’re starting at MGM since BS and LS haven’t done it as much and MK is an EMH day (remember those hours of research? And to think we were going to begin the day at MK!)

I have to trade in our vouchers from our well-connected cousin and what kind of passes come out?

Cinderella for BS princess, Dopey for Dopey-loving MS and Mickey for me. How did they know? BS thought I made special requests. That’s the Disney magic for you!

We arrive in time to stand on Hollywood Blvd for the rope drop, not at the rope mind you, but since we’re not the overly adventureous kind we aren’t going anywhere near Sunset Blvd. I lead them to Star tours where MS almost gets blasted by a Storm Trooper when she uses an unauthorized FP machine.

On to the Muppets to show off my wisdom acquired from the Masters here.

I love this fountain! Totally missed it on our first visit. Ms. Piggy is so cool!

LS - “Hey, MS, look over here…anything under the mat?”

MS – “WOW – it’s a key. But it’s glued down.”

CM – “Who found the key?”

I hold my tongue cuz out of the corner of my eye, on the podium, I see it. The famous Lala certificate. I think, surely if MS is the first to find the key today, that must be worthy of the golden fastpass….Surely this will be a dream come true!?

But, alas, it’s just the certificate and now MS gets to try to keep it dry and flat for the next 6 hours. But she’s excited and once again, I pay homage to the all-knowing Disboarders.

We’re moving on to the pre-show but not before I notice this sign

that I don’t remember anyone talking about before. Cute – and one of those signs you’d pass right by. Pause a moment to read and have a chuckle.

In the pre-show I’m more interested in the prop boxes and stuff in the rafters than the video so I apologize if you were in there and with me and I distracted you with,

“Look at this one!”

"and this one!"

“See the net full of jello?”
(I read somewhere that it was green jello and I was confused when I tried to explain to sis' how Annette was green but it's really a mixed bag of jello.)

“Don’t those guys look like soldiers from IASW?”
(who are those guys in the rafters?)

The doors are opening and unknowing MS and BS head in so I have to grab them so we don’t get forced to the end of the row.

What’s this? Did she really say that? Sit anywhere? Choose any seat? Feel free to allow your children to sit where their view isn’t obstructed?

Gotta love an empty theater!

We all enjoyed the show and naturally, due to my impeccable timing, we were right on schedule for our FP at Star tours.

The rest of the day went exactly as planned - well, I did try to re-Fast Pass Star tours but we opted to walk on Little Mermaid instead and missed our time.

If you don’t have a desire to do ToT or RnRC and you want my plan to do almost everything in MGM before 2 pm, send me a PM and I’ll reveal my strategy to you.

My faves - Great Movie Ride (I don't even think the witch would like this pic)

Backlot tour (this was closed in '04 so it was my first time)

How did we stay dry?

Can we stretch this to be a Hidden Mickey?

and the walkthru inside of all the costumes and props...
this definitely looks like an HM to me...

One Man's Dream
(bonus points to anyone who can name which Dwarf's name almost got changed because Walt thought it was too "modern")


Little Mermaid was cool too - not just for Ariel lovers,

Star Tours

"Sweetie, I was standing in line in front of you...yes, I want my picture on the speeder for my son...no, I am NOT too big...."

And walking thru San Francisco and New York - another street we totally missed last time.

This sooooo looks like a real building from the front...

...but looks can be deceiving... "i before e except after c? why"

Get your taste buds ready…Dining at the Derby

 

[AshClan]

Great start, Suzflee! I love the sister trip idea. Actually, I went with my younger sister for 4 days in November (to prep her for her first trip with her little ones - 5 and 3), and we had a great time! But I would just LOVE to do it with both sisters some day. Hopefully, though, it would be for more than 14 hours! Can't wait to hear what you managed to fit in!!