Trip+Dining: Why can't we live here? -Photo Heavy!- 12/30 updated

[Singledad]

Auntie is finally out of the hospital, so YAY!

Okay, so last we were on day three, and we had just finished at Chef Mickeys. I gave DD the choice of taking a bus right to where we were headed, or taking the monorail first, then a bus.

She picked monorail!

So, up to the monorail we went. I will say this, the waiting platform is not made very well to accommodate a line plus people coming off the elevator to get into said line. There was some sort of hold up with the monorail, so there was quite a back up on the waiting platform. I felt bad for not taking DD out of the stroller and making her stand and wait, however she was already saying how tired her legs were and I knew that she just couldn't handle that crowd of people without the safety of her stroller.... a long wait later, we got on the monorail and road to the TTC. There we went off and got into line for the bus for Disney Hollywood studios! Wow, there wasn't much shade while waiting for that bus! but since there was very little line there, it wasn't a big deal to sit on the bench way back and stay in that sliver of shade.

Got on the bus after a small wait, and off we went!

I will say, I think this was the 2ed hottest day of our trip. I was baking! But thankfully this didn't effect my mood at all, you however will see some not so happy looking DD pictures during the worse of the heat.

The first thing we did went we got there was to get some awesome photopass photos! I have to say, I finally have some photos of our little family that I really really love!

After that we wandered toward the hat and noticed some CM's tossing a bunch of hula hoops onto the ground. DD asked me what they were doing, I told I don't know, and she asked if she could ask them... so she did and was told they were there for her to play with. So play with them she did!

If I would have let her, she would have stayed there ALL DAY. but the sun was being brutal, so we moved on... This is where she made what I think was one of her best purchases of the trip. She bought herself a stuffed Stitch. I was a bit surprised she had taken so much to him, as she was quite afraid of him and the rest at Disney on Ice... and she never stopped gripping me while being forced to watch it by me. However, she decided she wanted him, and he has gone *everywhere* since. Of course, who do we see less than 5 min after she buys this plushie? Only Stitch himself!

She, of course, had to show him that she bought... him!

you could tell he thought it funny and cool. This was the first (and one of the few) times that i didn't have to step in and 'speak' for either DD or the character. I could and did just stand there and take it in. (and snap pictures!)

If this isn't disney magic, I don't know what is:

Oh, and during this time, we had him all to ourselves! No one was waiting in line behind us, so I didn't feel rushed.

after one final hug...

We spotted none other than Donald AND Daisy Duck!

These two did feel a bit more rushed, as DD was trying to ask if she could kiss them on the bill, but no one heard her (or me either.) or at least, acted like they heard.

as you can tell, she didn't mind terribly, she still was happy to see Daisy! (and Donald.)

I am going to post this, and keep going, but don't want to lose any of this...

Next Posting

 

[Singledad]

So, after meeting Daisy and Donald I decide we should check out our first ride. Since she did so well on rides at MK with Liam, I figured to try her out on the Movie ride.

I would have loved to get my picture taken with this prop, but the line moved too fast to do so.

DD did good even with the gangster jumping into the tram (and we were in the front seat, RIGHT near him too!)

She asked where the lady went, and kept yelling WELCOME BACK, at her after she returned until she heard DD and said thank you!

After, the tram guide was on the unloading platform as well and DD had to go up and ask her if she could give her a hug. After a hug to make sure she was safe, and the guide saying she had just gone to get some popcorn (cause DD asked why she left like that.) we moved off to explore some more.

DD was pretty hot and grumpy, as I couldn't figure out where to go to get anywhere. Eventually we found and rode Star Tours. DD said she liked it, but when asked if she wanted to ride it again said NO.

We then got to see The little Mermaid, and then rode Toy Story Mania the first time. that is right, we rode this multiple times...

Every time we rode DD would ask if she won. Of course I said she did. I mean, she won HER games... even if she didn't beat my scores.

I think she did awesome though.

After one time on TSM, it was getting close to our ADR for Hollywood and Vine , so off we went!

I will post about that and link it here... just let me say, this was my favorite ADR and a MUST DO for our next trip. Even *if* she may not still enjoy the toons, the food was perfect for us!

After stuffing ourselves silly, we went back to watch Little Mermaid again. This time we sat closer so she could see better. I'll tell you that the waiting area to get into the theater get pretty packed, and people will sit on the floor, so moving a wheelchair or a stroller as wheelchair in this area can be a bit nerve wracking. esp. since no one wants to move an inch to make room for you.

After that we discovered something fun in the 'streets of america' area. The fire hydrants!

To say she was soaked would be an understatement. However, as I said.. the sun and heat was brutal that day.

We took some photos:

Then we went and found the muppet show:

I am sorry, I chuckled at this sign in the waiting area.

After that we took some more fun pictures before going back to ride TSM two more times. (in a row.)

Then she found another fire hydrant to play in.

this one didn't spray as much as the other one, so she asked to go back to the other one... where she proceeded to get soaked again.

posting again as I am out of allowed photos.

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[Singledad]

Can you see why it took me so long to work the nerve up for this posting? nearly two hours later and I am so not done yet.

So, DD got soaked again. We still had an hour until our dinner ADR, but we both were starting to get hungry. Not thinking much about it, I headed over to Sci-Fi Dine in, just to inquire how hard it may be to get in a little early for supper. I was thinking maybe being told to come back in about a half hour, letting DD dry out in the sun for that time... However, they just gave us a buzzer thing and said they would call us when a table was ready. I was headed towards the door to let soaking skye back in the sunlight, when the buzzer went off!

So... off we went and got seated. about 5 min later, DD said she was cold, and I did a facepalm. She was soaking wet, and sitting in the AC!?! I am such a bad bad parent! But we were seated, early even (per my misguided request.) and now I was wishing I had just waited till she was dry to ask.

So, I snuggled her and hugged her, and had my legs on her, trying to warm her up. I asked her if she wanted to stay in the cold and eat right now, or leave and get warm and eat later. She picked eat now. If I wasn't worried about the cost, I would have left long enough to buy a towel, or blanket for her. I didn't have *anything* to cover her with.

So this meal was super rushed in my wish to get DD fed and into the warmth.

I got a milkshake which I shared with DD.

This is when I felt even worse... Being wet, having just come in from extreme heat, into cold AC... then inhaling a milkshake on top of that? "I'm going to throw up!" *grab kid, stand up, panic not knowing where the bathroom was, saw a waitress, quickly asked, 'excuse me, kid about to be sick, nearest bathroom!?' then rushed her to it. got there in time! *

So yes, feel free to tsk tsk tsk at me.

However... post being sick, DD seemed much happier.

DD ate everything she ordered, fairly quickly too. (she was still cold.)

I snapped a picture of my steak, but I too ate quickly so as to get her back into the warmth.

got a quick photo before our bill arrived:

We skipped dessert, and rushed DD out to the heat again. We headed over to the toy story area again, for another ride on TSM.... However, we spotted Woody and Buzz in the building across from it, and jumped into line. after being in line about 10 min, is when I noticed... in my rush to get DD warm again, I forgot my backpack at Sci-Fi dine in!

I really didn't want to leave the line to go get it, but I also didn't want it to end up in some lost and found at the very front of the park and me end up having to run all around the park to get it back.
So, I asked the CM working there (I can't believe I can't remember her name this moment. Sandy, Sandra.... ) I am sorry, I just realized I left my backpack back at the Sci-Fi Dine In restaurant. do you know if there is any way to call over there and let them know I do plan to come back there and get it, I just don't want to lose our spot in line to do it right away." She said she wasn't sure, but that was a very good question and she will try to find out. about 10 min later, a supervisor looking guy came over and asked me which restaurant it was I forgot my bag at, and what it looks like. I told him, and he disappeared for a while. He came back, told me they have my bag there. By this time I released that by not having the bag, I also don't have her autograph book! Nor my camera, which with photopass wasn't a big deal. I then asked if there was any way to either save my spot in the line for me to go get it, or for someone else to get it for me. He asked for more details about the bag (as in, a way to make sure it really is mine) I told him where to find a paper that states my name, etc inside the bag. He disapeared... about 20 min later, there he is with my bag!

Now that was some Disney magic! We didn't lose our spot, and we got the bag back, with everything intact, and in time for DD to get her book 'signed'. (buzz has a stamp.) Now, also while that was going on, the same CM I had asked about the calling over informed the whole line that chances are high that by the time we made it up Woody wouldn't be there anymore, as he was due for a break within x min. He would be gone for 15 to 20 min, then return.

I saw quite a few people decide to not get into line, or leave the line knowing this information. I explained to DD that the cowboy most likely wouldn't be there by the time we got up there, and asked if that was okay. She was very disappointed, but still wanted to see buzz anyway.

I am going to start another post, as I want to not worry about going over photo/smilies limit....

Next Posting

 

[Singledad]

So, we get up there and sure enough, it is just Buzz. I'll let the pictures do the talking here.

Now, I explained to Buzz how at first she was very scared of him, until she watched his movie and learned he was a super hero and a good guy.

You could tell he was touched by hearing that, and was equally as proud of DD for not being scared of him any longer.

Now.... that alone is magic.

However, the pixie dust is about to fall...

Remember that CM who was at the start of the line when I noticed my missing backpack? Well, she was now working inside. As I was standing there letting DD get her hugs and kisses in with Buzz, She (the CM) pulled me to the side and whispered to me... If you are around here in about 20 min, and I am still inside, come to the back door here and I will let you in to see Woody. If I am not inside, find me, and I will get you in.




Okay, She didn't even know that the soul reason for us getting into line was because DD saw woody. Buzz was okay, but Woody "The cowboy" was her goal.

So, once we were done with Buzz and said our goodbyes, I made SURE we were there by the time woody got back.

While waiting we rode toy story mania a few MORE times in a row. All told we rode it 5x that day. Not bad for her saying she didn't want to try it at first!

So, I didn't even tell DD what the CM had told me, and 20 min later, I went to the exit. after the next people came out, I waved to the CM, she smiled, and waved us in. She then explained to the next people in line that DD was next and they will get their turn after that.

DD saw Woody, and jumped out of her stroller and RAN to him.

At that point I fully admit I had pixie dust in my eyes. I know they were a bit watery.

I admit, I am choking up just looking at these photos... I mean, look at her smile! she looks like she is about to float!

I made sure to let guest relations know that this CM made our trip. I don't cry easy, I don't get choked up. I was close to sobbing from joy at seeing DD getting to see Woody.


I need a small break now... how about you?

 

[Singledad]

Okay, here are a few photos that I had not linked earlier, but still wanted to share.

These next ones I took because it is the wheelchair car. Watching this car being used nearly made me cry. Why? because I couldn't stop thinking about my sister (she pass away a few years ago at age 33), and how much she would have LOVED to been able to experience that with DD. I mean, for Erica to have been able to just roll right into the car, no having to transfer.... and sit next to DD and play the games with her.... It just really really made me miss my sister, and think about all the things we will never get to do.

I miss you sis. I really do.

So, after seeing woody and buzz, we rushed off to the buses. See, that morning I had forgotten to bring our gift for Liam, and I had planned to meet with them at DTD to give it to him. So, we took a bus to our hotel, ran to our room, grabbed the gift, and jumped onto a bus to DTD. It was pretty darn late already, most people were leaving DTD at the time. I handed it off, and we got back onto a bus to go back to ASMu and SLEEP!

Next posting shall be our hollywood and vine ADR....

Next Posting

 

[PrincessInOz]

WOW! What a magical day at Hollywood Studios. You and your daughter did great with:

• the photopass pictures
• the character meet and greets
• the fabulous cast members with such pixie dust
• getting into Sci Fi
• TSM - 5 times??? and without Fast Passes?? Ridiculous and unheard of!!!!

Can't wait for your update on H&V.


ps. Glad your aunt is out of hospital. Is she better? I also hope that you're feeling less stressed.

 

[Singledad]

WOW! What a magical day at Hollywood Studios. You and your daughter did great with:

• the photopass pictures
• the character meet and greets
• the fabulous cast members with such pixie dust
• getting into Sci Fi
• TSM - 5 times??? and without Fast Passes?? Ridiculous and unheard of!!!!

Can't wait for your update on H&V.


ps. Glad your aunt is out of hospital. Is she better? I also hope that you're feeling less stressed.

Aunt is getting better. She had a liver transplant, and her body is slowly recovering from the effects of needing a liver. Her kidney function is returning... and she has gained 14 lbs in the last 2 months. so yeah, on the mend.

I hope to post Hollywood and vine tonight (as in, thursday night my time.) while at work. I highly doubt it will take me the three hours to put together as I did with the above update. (ie: DHS)

 

[Chaitali]

Wow, that really was a magical day! I love all the photo pass pictures, especially the ones of you guys on the bench with Mickey and Minnie. I've never seen those before. And the photos of your daughter with Stitch and Woddy are so precious! I have a soft spot in my heart for Stitch too and I love what the movie has to say about family.

 

[cindianne320]

I thought I commented. Anyway- What a magical day you had! I was tearing up over your Woody story!

And how in the world did you ride TSM so many times?! Awesome!

 

[sue_88]

I enjoyed the photos of playing in the water from the hydrant. It is always a suprise to find simple things that shape a vacation day.

 

[lovethattink]

Wonderful pictures! I love hearing about that Disney Magic! Hurray for the extra pixie dust!!! So glad you got your bag back! And it's awesome that THEY brought it to you!!! So sweet and heartwarming about Woody too!!

 

[Singledad]

I know i've seem to have lost most my readers and am thankful for those sticking around. Between work, taking DD to appointments etc, I just haven't had time to post more yet. here though is a small glance as to why.

This last weekend was pow-wow weekend.

This is my tribe. I am a direct descendant of the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe, Band of the Mohican. For more information on my tribe, and the area feel free to check out the tribe's website www.mohican.com .

Our pow-wow grounds are part of a park, and also has campgrounds. Here are a few photos of the park areas.

oh, and here is a very very old (and yes I am fat.) photo of me out on a rock in the river. Rock jumping is a traditional pow-wow pass-time.

So now you can see it is a wonderful looking place, here are a few photos from this year's pow-wow.


This is the grounds before Grand Entry.

See, the stadium 'seats' are made right out of the hill around it. perfect and natural.

The middle part is the drummer's pavilion. it is covered so those awesome drums are protected from the rain that is a normal part of the annual veterans pow-wow. and also the brutal sun.

My daughter in her Fancy Shawl regalia, waiting in line for grand entry.

Men's Traditional entering the grounds...

My daughter entering the grounds...

The smallest ones getting their tobacco before entering the grounds....

All dancers are in the arena

Papoose contest: Walkers up to 3 years old (aka toddlers)

of course, the best part of Papoose contests is seeing how many 'walkers' refuse to be put down, or wander off... or get distracted by a ribbon in the grass. Ah, kids!

Papoose contest: Walkers ages 4, 5 and 6. (My daughter is 5.)

Lined up afterword:

Second dance for the older walkers:

Winners:

more dancing:

Youth Dancers:

and, I am ending with my grinning girl!

 

[cindianne320]

Very cool! Thanks for sharing!

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your WDW trip when you have more time!

 

[sue_88]

I'm still around too. Nice real life update!

 

[deenbrad]

Love the pow-wow pics! Thanks for sharing!

 

[kmedina]

I just started reading the trip report and am still on Day One. It looks like you had a great time.

 

[Singledad]

we sure did! welcome to the report! still in progress. Might end up doing a quick H and V posting compared to what I want to do... just to get the update in there.

 

[PrincessInOz]

I missed the maybe update on the pow-wow! I just assumed people were catching up!!!!

Anyways.....that's a great event that you've shared. Must be nice to be able to attend cultural events like that?

Glad to see you back on the boards.

 

[kmedina]

I am all caught up now. It looks like your stroller choice paid off. Seeing your DD sleeping so peacefully in it is nice. DS#2 was born shortly after you started your trip report (which is why I arrived so late, sorry). Since DS#1 will not walk all around WDW, we recently ordered a double (yikes). DS#1 seemed a little big for it. Hopefully, it works out.

The boy’s feet concern me too! Your DD is glowing in every picture. That is awesome. We were so looking forward to CP this trip. I am also concerned with the lack of food choices. My husband agrees with you on LTT, so I am glad you tried it. I am always nervous about bringing our camera to the pool too.

DS is most eagerly awaiting a return to CM. That picture of your DD with Minnie is beyond adorable. My son will be tall enough for TT this trip. We are all excited. It looks like your DD enjoyed it. Those hoops look fun. She actually scored pretty high each time on TSMM for her age. It looks like you really enjoyed it. I never noticed the hydrants did that. That is another place at DHS for my son to get soaked. He will love it just as your DD did, I bet.

Your DD looks like she had a lot of fun at the Pow Wow weekend. There are not many things like that where we live, so it is always nice to see pictures.

I cannot wait to read the rest. No rush though.

 

[Singledad]

Wow.... how did I never end up with the H and V posting yet?! I promise that update will happen BEFORE next year ! (aka in the next week or two.)

I took my photopass CD to my dads to show him, and keep forgetting them there!