TR w/4000+ Pics/Disney on Ice w/184 Pics!!

[GoofySon'sMom]

Sounds like a great day! Cool pics on Pirates! Mine never come out!

Very cool that Anthony got picked for the show! I have to say that that was the one thing we really didn't enjoy all that much. As much as I love corny that show was over the top even for me! Wish we were at your show ... Anthony being in it would have definitely made it more enjoyable for us!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Sounds like a great day! Cool pics on Pirates! Mine never come out!

Very cool that Anthony got picked for the show! I have to say that that was the one thing we really didn't enjoy all that much. As much as I love corny that show was over the top even for me! Wish we were at your show ... Anthony being in it would have definitely made it more enjoyable for us!

I had seen a youtube video of it & knew it was right up our alley.....love those music/dance sappy skits.....lol Anthony is like the Golden child at Disneyland...he gets picked for everything!!

 

[Sherry E]

My old computer is taking a really long time to load these latest pages, so I haven't been able to comment much. I'm surprised my PC even still works.

Just wanted to say that I noticed you have the Kitchen Sink coming up. I referred another DIS-er to the PCH Grill specifically so her family could get that Kitchen Sink. They just got back a few days ago from their DLR trip. Do you know that the Kitchen Sink was "not available" on the night they went to the PCH Grill?! How could it not be available? The only thing I can think of is that they ran out of ice cream or some of the toppings. But talk about disappointing - you go to a restaurant solely for one item and one item only, and that item is not there!! Luckily, she said the food was pretty good and they had a good kids menu so it worked out.

Even though you had trouble getting Jack Sparrow photos, I can't believe you got the POTC shots that you got. And you have a point and shoot? You took those all without a flash, I assume. They came out much, much better than I would expect for a P&S without using a flash.

Great ToonTown shots! I have always loved ToonTown since it opened in '93. I tend to think that the people who mainly love DLR for the rides only avoid ToonTown if they don't have kids because they assume it's only for kids, or they see that it's packed with people and they get scared off. But anyone who is a true fan of photography (amateur or pro), is detail-oriented and really loves to find those overlooked gems and details all around DLR knows that ToonTown is one of the best examples of the famous Disney attention to detail out of anywhere in the resort. It's chock full of inside jokes and hidden gems - which are built, literally, into the ground, into the walls, into the structures, etc. Not to mention that ToonTown is extremely colorful, bright and photogenic. A Bug's Land is quite a good example of the famous Disney details as well. I always think it's a shame when people dismiss TT because there are really a lot of great things to see.

 

[DizNee Luver]

My old computer is taking a really long time to load these latest pages, so I haven't been able to comment much. I'm surprised my PC even still works.

Just wanted to say that I noticed you have the Kitchen Sink coming up. I referred another DIS-er to the PCH Grill specifically so her family could get that Kitchen Sink. They just got back a few days ago from their DLR trip. Do you know that the Kitchen Sink was "not available" on the night they went to the PCH Grill?! How could it not be available? The only thing I can think of is that they ran out of ice cream or some of the toppings. But talk about disappointing - you go to a restaurant solely for one item and one item only, and that item is not there!! Luckily, she said the food was pretty good and they had a good kids menu so it worked out.

Even though you had trouble getting Jack Sparrow photos, I can't believe you got the POTC shots that you got. And you have a point and shoot? You took those all without a flash, I assume. They came out much, much better than I would expect for a P&S without using a flash.

Great ToonTown shots! I have always loved ToonTown since it opened in '93. I tend to think that the people who mainly love DLR for the rides only avoid ToonTown if they don't have kids because they assume it's only for kids, or they see that it's packed with people and they get scared off. But anyone who is a true fan of photography (amateur or pro), is detail-oriented and really loves to find those overlooked gems and details all around DLR knows that ToonTown is one of the best examples of the famous Disney attention to detail out of anywhere in the resort. It's chock full of inside jokes and hidden gems - which are built, literally, into the ground, into the walls, into the structures, etc. Not to mention that ToonTown is extremely colorful, bright and photogenic. A Bug's Land is quite a good example of the famous Disney details as well. I always think it's a shame when people dismiss TT because there are really a lot of great things to see.

That is really weird about the Kitchen Sink...... but the food over there is very good...so glad they weren't super disappointed!

Yes my camera is a point & shoot....AND NO FLASH!!! lol It has a setting for really quick shutter speed & that's what I used for the nighttime & dark ride pics as well as lots of action. It worked out really well. Sometimes I forgot to reset the camera & got some grainy day time pics....but oh well!!

Love going into ToonTown to take pics....as you said...hidden gems & very colorful....I always leave happy!!

 

[kelmac284]

Love the latest installment. We too have never seen that drawn to animation show either. Isn't it funny I have been to DL hundreds of times and it just goes to show there is STILL stuff I haven't seen or done but I think it is mostly because at this stage we are so into doing the rides etc that for our particular group we don't stop to take the time to do it although I have to say that is what I LOVE about doing the ladies trips!!! When mom and I go it is a WHOLE different ball game. We have been SO many times and done it all that we don't feel the need to go on all the rides hundreds of times and we literally sit back and enjoy everything. In fact the last two years I think we only went on a handful of rides each time.

We did some things with the gals that I had never done like the gospel brunch at House of Blues and mom and I take a LOT of time to just sit around and people watch and shop and just enjoy ourselves and not rush around. It is nice. I must admit I am getting too old to be running around LOL. And every time someone says, you are going AGAIIIIINNNNN I can literally say, see there are still things I HAVEN'T done yet!! I didn't even see the Billy Hill show till just a few trips ago and I know there are probably other things I haven't seen or done and with ALL the new stuff coming there is ALWAYS something new to see!

Glad Anthony had fun and as always am anxious for the next installment!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Love the latest installment. We too have never seen that drawn to animation show either. Isn't it funny I have been to DL hundreds of times and it just goes to show there is STILL stuff I haven't seen or done but I think it is mostly because at this stage we are so into doing the rides etc that for our particular group we don't stop to take the time to do it although I have to say that is what I LOVE about doing the ladies trips!!! When mom and I go it is a WHOLE different ball game. We have been SO many times and done it all that we don't feel the need to go on all the rides hundreds of times and we literally sit back and enjoy everything. In fact the last two years I think we only went on a handful of rides each time.

We did some things with the gals that I had never done like the gospel brunch at House of Blues and mom and I take a LOT of time to just sit around and people watch and shop and just enjoy ourselves and not rush around. It is nice. I must admit I am getting too old to be running around LOL. And every time someone says, you are going AGAIIIIINNNNN I can literally say, see there are still things I HAVEN'T done yet!! I didn't even see the Billy Hill show till just a few trips ago and I know there are probably other things I haven't seen or done and with ALL the new stuff coming there is ALWAYS something new to see!

Glad Anthony had fun and as always am anxious for the next installment!!

They offer so many of those little shows, it would be almost impossible to take it all in on one trip or even two & like you said, they're always adding stuff. I think these small little shows are what makes DL special.....they're not like second rate, last minute shows but well thought out & expertly done. Disney definitely has the market on talent!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Hey, we're on to Day 4, July 29!!!

We decided to sleep in & get to the parks in time for our 9:40 reservation at the Carnation Cafe. It was kinda nice not rushing & getting up early. We were able to leisurely walk over to DL & not be on the run for something. We checked in about 9:30 & were asked to wait on the wall.....lol They also had a stand-by line & one guy because he had a GAC thought that he should get seated immediately....with no ressie. They told him he'd have to wait his turn for an opening. Get real buddy....just cause you use a scooter because you are large does not mean you have permission to take away others places & reservations. I thought he had some nerve. If that had worked I would have trumped him because I had 2 GAC's......lol Anyways, back to breakfast......we had a wait of about 15 mins because they were trying to get 2 tables next to each other. They aren't able to accomidate large groups because it is a very small terrace seating area. It was fine....because we were next to each other & that worked out fine.

Here we are:

We ordered Shyann the fruit & yogurt parfait....it was huge & looked very good!!

Addy got the Jr Scramble & Anthony got the Mickey Waffles:

Derek got the Cinnamon Roll French Toast & Tyler got the Croissant Benedict:

Nick got the Apple Pancakes & I got the Oscar's Choice Cafe Scramble:

Mike also got the Croissant Benedict & Betty also got the Oscar's Choice Cafe Scramble:

Chef Oscar was there today & making the rounds. He stopped by the boys table & graciously posed for a pic with them.

He then came to our table where I mentioned these were the best potatoes ever!! He tried to explain how they made them: You saute the onions, you grill the potatoes until they're about halfway cooked. You combine both with salt & pepper & put them into a shallow baking pan. Cover with foil & bake in a 350 degree oven for about 15 mins (until done). I haven't tried this yet....but Mike's ready to give it a shot! We also had our picture taken with him. If you don't know who he is.....you're missing out on a Disneyland legend!! I believe he started at the Carnation Cafe in 1959 & has been there ever since. He told Mike that a few places in Las Vegas has tried to lure him away & he said he always turns them down.....Disneyland IS his home!! Such a sweet man!

6 ADULTS, 2 KIDS, 1 PARFAIT, 6 DRINKS + TAX + TIP = $119.96 with 15% AP Disc. = $105.79
This is a great place for breakfast & I've heard the lunch & dinners are just as good....especially the baked potato soup!! $100 bucks for 10 people not too shabby & worth every penny!! This restaurant is all outdoor seating & limited, so reservations are highly suggested!

Next post will be mommy & daughter time!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

After breakfast, we all broke off into different directions. Mike & Betty wandered up Main Street stopping & sitting in the Carnation Plaza in a nice shaded area with the twins, Tyler & Derek went off to do some rides, Nick took Anthony hoping to get him to the Jedi Academy show & I took Addy for some much needed mommy & me time.

Our first stop was Pixie Hollow. Something I noticed that I found disturbing was the water wasn't as "pretty" as normal. I know they've had some icky weather in Southern Cali, so not surprised to see a bit of green-ness to it....but to see garbage floating in it was not what we've come to expect of DL. Our wait was about 30 mins.....which isn't bad.

They usually take one family in at a time but this time they were stopping families at certain spots to wait to move to the next stop. So you don't really get alone time before you have another family on your heels. I kinda like the way we did it last year....keeping it private. The first pixie we met was Fawn. This is the same one we saw last year. I know Addy was hoping to meet a different one....but seemed to forget soon enough.

We turned the corner & found Tinkerbell! They warn you when you line up that Tink may or may not be there....so I was kinda thinking we might find another fairy besides her. Addy loves Tink, so it all worked out great!!

Next up Princess Fantasy Faire!

 

[DizNee Luver]

After leaving Pixie Hollow we headed up to the Princess Fantasy Faire.....I was sad I had missed it the day she was dressed up as Jasmine. (I had baby nap duty) So I wanted to experience this with her. I have never seen the line that short.....ever!! The sign said 30 mins....but I don't think we even waited 20 mins. We turned the corner & saw Tiana, Belle & Ariel. The same exact 3 Addy saw 2 days ago......lol I was really hoping Addy could meet a rare Mulan or Pocahontus or a favorite: Snow White or Cinderella. Addy seemed a tad disappointed but she never showed it when speaking with them.

First up was Tiana:

Next was Belle:

And finally Ariel. Ariel remembered Addy, so that made her feel pretty special!:

When we were done at the faire, we stopped in their gift area to look around. We bought a couple small tiaras on combs....worked good with Addy's ponytail....but I didn't have anything for the comb to grab on to.....no princess for me.....lol. We went back to the Plaza to reconnect with Mike, Betty and the twins.

When I got there, Mike told me that Nick had texted him to tell them Anthony got picked for the Jedi Academy!! This was the first time he had ever gone & I had spent time explaining to him that he probably wouldn't be chosen. We had read that you needed signs, etc to catch their attention & know of tons of people that have gone many times & their child has never been picked! I tell you....that child is golden in DL!! Here are a few of the pics:

Next up the rest of Jedi Academy!

 

[kaoden39]

Two wonderful breakfasts!! Yay!! I love breakfast!! It is my favorite meal of the day. Next trip I get to go to Carnation Cafe, even if I have to go alone. I am going to try the potatoes. I love that show and I am thrilled to see Anthony got picked!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

These are the rest of the pics Nick got at the Jedi Academy.

Anthony ended up fighting Darth Maul & at the end of the "training" the kids all graduate & receive a certificate. Anthony was pretty excited when they met back up with us!!

Next post will have the DL Band and a few afternoon pics.

 

[DizNee Luver]

Two wonderful breakfasts!! Yay!! I love breakfast!! It is my favorite meal of the day. Next trip I get to go to Carnation Cafe, even if I have to go alone. I am going to try the potatoes. I love that show and I am thrilled to see Anthony got picked!!

I always look forward to breakfast there.....I need to try a different meal but I like to mix things up & don't want to give up my breakfast!!

I was shocked when Mike told me that Anthony got picked!! I was so happy for him!

 

[kaoden39]

Oh wow how great for Anthony. Getting picked for two shows that is wonderful!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Tyler & I were on nap duty today, so we made our way up Main Street & found the Disneyland Band playing at the Flag Pole.....I wish I could have sat & listened for a while, but the babies were ready for lunch & naps. Nick decided to go with us back to the motel.

On our way back to the HoJo, something on the top of my foot started to burn & sting.....I have no idea what I did, but it hurt like crazy & was swollen & discolored by the time we got to our room. So after I got the girls down for naps.....I elevated my foot on the bed & iced it as I caught up my journals & checkbook. Nick returned to meet back up with the rest of them. Not really sure what they did, but Derek did return to the motel around 2pm. In the pics for the afternoon I see they spent some time up at Grizzly River & the kids look to be having fun in the "Splash Zone"!!

About 3:45 they wandered back to the motel so we could drive over to the Paradise Pier Hotel for our dinner......which you guessed...will be next!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Oh wow how great for Anthony. Getting picked for two shows that is wonderful!!

Very lucky!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

With everyone back at the motel & changed out of their wet clothes....we packed into the van & drove over to the Paradise Pier Hotel. When you enter the lobby.....surfer Goofy is there to greet you.....Photo Op!!

Like these since they have all 7 of my kids in them!

Tyler snapped a few pics as we waited for the restaurant to open for dinner (our ressie was for 5:30pm):

The menu:

The sign for the new character breakfast hosted by Mickey Mouse:

Decor:

We were seated & they got our drink orders & drinks out to us very quickly!! Here's one of the smoothies (I do remember Derek getting a Smoothies, but the waitress dropped it right behind him & it splattered all over....the people at the table behind us got the worst of it....but I had it on my legs & I was across the table from Derek).....oopie!!

Ty & yet another self portrait....lol:

Ty was bored or found something interesting on the drink menu:

Some random pics of the family as we waited for our dinners:

Next post will have the kids making their own pizzas & hamming it up for the camera!

 

[DizNee Luver]

So the kids chose to do the Make your Own Pizzas!! Last year Anthony did this & he had so much fun....Addy remembered & wanted to do it as well this time. No funny chef hats this time......sniff sniff.....lol

Here's Anthony's pizza:

Here's Addy's pizza:

Here the kids are taking their pizzas up to the chef to cook them in their brick oven:

I'm not sure who did these with the kids....but they cracked me up....what a bunch of hams!!

*+*+*+FOOD PORN*+*+*+ next post!!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

The chef & manager came out to speak with us about Shyann's special needs & sent back out this plate just for her.....no charge!

Addy's beautiful sausage pizza with a side of green beans:

Anthony's spicy pepperoni pizza with a side of fruit:

Derek & Betty both ordered the Hawaiian Pizza:

Tyler order the Works pizza:

Ty & Derek split their pizza's & swapped:

Nick got a sausage pizza but I don't seem to have a picture of his....think Addy's pizza but a tad bigger!!

Mike got the Big Kahuna Burger:

I got the Fish & Chips (had these last year...yummy):

More random pics of my crazy family:

Last post for Day 4 coming up!!

 

[kaoden39]

Such fun pictures.

 

[DizNee Luver]

I remember telling everyone to make faces...but going back & looking at these....you'd think we were all punch drunk.....lol What a crazy group!!

So we've never done it before....but decided it was time to order.........THE KITCHEN SINK!! It's a huge sundae with 10 scoops of ice cream, chocolate & caramel topping, Chocolate chip cookies, Brownies, Nestle Crunch Bar, Sprinkles, Cherries & Whip Cream......a big sink filled with deliciousness!!

This is what was left......10 people is just about the right amount of people to tackle this bad boy!!

6 ADULTS, 2 KIDS, 3 NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS, 3 SMOOTHIES, 1 KITCHEN SINK + TAX + TIP= $168.21 less 15% AP Disc = $150.70
PCH Grill is a hidden gem in the Paradise Pier Hotel. I think people miss coming to this restaurant since it's not in the parks or DTD. They may come for the character meal....but both times we've done those here....it's a very small group of people. The food & service is very good. They dub themselves as California style food....very very tasty & affordable pricing for large families. Once we found this restaurant last year...it has become a favorite of everyone in our family (of picky eaters!!)

These pics were taken outside as we waited for the Valet to bring the van around:

After we got back to the motel....Tyler, Mike, Anthony & Addy went back over to the park. They rode BTMRR, the train, Space Mtn & Buzz Lightyear. Tyler went back to the motel & Mike ran kids to DCA to check out the Glow Fest & then brought them back for bed.

This concludes Day 4!!! The next set will be from an Off-Disney day as we try out Knott's Berry Farm.