Two moms get away to act like teenagers...or do they? The End! (Feb 18-21, 2011)

[jmskinner]

Love that title Vickie and boy did we ride. Oops, getting ahead of myself.

First random photo of the day


My one complaint about BLT, the hallways. Actually I think I have this complaint for all deluxes (or at least the ones I have stayed at). You leave your room to walk down a hallway. I love the moderates since you walk into the beautiful Disney landscape. At least some Disney artwork would have been nice. Sorry, I'll get off my soapbox now.

How many times had we used the elevator the day before and didn't notice this view


And I am always trying to get good shots of the monorail


Wow, empty bus stops




In case you haven't heard, all the painting being done on Main Street is to bring Main Street back to the original colors of opening day.

I wouldn't have known they had ever been changed since I only started going in 2005.





And I always have to get a pic of the castle (As I type this I can hear hubby "how many pics do you need?")


And this is where we had our photopass pic taken, but didn't order it


But the very nice CM took one with mine:


He then reminded us to take a photo of our photopass card in case we lost it, which I did.



Park wouldn't be looking like this much longer


Me trying to take pics of line


And of course, on the ride


Don't worry, I didn't use my flash, that was the only pic I got. I can't remember if it was this ride or the later one, it may have been both, but I think I was sitting in front of Vickie, and we would scream or laugh, but never at the same time. That made us laugh even more.

And I had hoped you could add the photo to your photopass card like at TT, but you have to pay for it and then they add it to your card. At this point we were acting like teenagers without Momma's credit card.

 

[MEK]

Ladies - Love your TR so far. Having just come back from a girl's trip, it is so fun to read about other's experiences.

I stayed in BLT in September - so you mean the sink is actually IN the bathroom now????? That is awesome.

Was that a standard view. I like it. It's a very pretty view.

I will try to get caught up tomorrow.

OH - and I am so happy to hear your breast cancer treatment went so well. That must be such a relief.

 

[lbuzz52]

Oh my. The iPhone. I would have cried. My iPhone is like my third child.
The crowd levels se nice. I thought they would be crazy for presidents day weekend.

 

[jmskinner]

Ladies - Love your TR so far. Having just come back from a girl's trip, it is so fun to read about other's experiences.

I stayed in BLT in September - so you mean the sink is actually IN the bathroom now????? That is awesome.

Was that a standard view. I like it. It's a very pretty view.

I will try to get caught up tomorrow.

OH - and I am so happy to hear your breast cancer treatment went so well. That must be such a relief.

The view was nice, I know Vickie was upset that looking directly out was the other half of the resort, but once on the balcony it was a nice view.

Too funny about the sink. I understand why they originally had the sinks outside of the bathroom, makes it easier for two to get dressed at once, but wasn't a good idea to put it in the kitchen area. I did use the mirror in the kitchen and a little cabinet area to do my makeup.

Glad you had a great time on your trip too.

Oh my. The iPhone. I would have cried. My iPhone is like my third child.
The crowd levels se nice. I thought they would be crazy for presidents day weekend.

I think those of us with smarthphones are all addicted to them. You don't realize how addicted you are until yours doesn't work.

I think this was an EMH at MK and it was still really early, believe me, those President's Day eventually caught up to us.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

Ladies - Love your TR so far. Having just come back from a girl's trip, it is so fun to read about other's experiences.

I stayed in BLT in September - so you mean the sink is actually IN the bathroom now????? That is awesome.

Was that a standard view. I like it. It's a very pretty view.

I will try to get caught up tomorrow.

OH - and I am so happy to hear your breast cancer treatment went so well. That must be such a relief.

I had heard a lot of flack about BLT -- how the furniture wasn't up to par, things already looked worn, and then the bathroom/kitchen thing. I really cannot say there was anything I was disappointed with, other than the fact that the studio is a bit smaller than I was used to. But we were fine with it!

As for the treatments -- I think I take them lighter than my doc would wish (just got chewed out today for trying to take some days off from them)...I have never had any fear over this thing, and that can be good in a lot of respects, but bad when I don't "feel" the gravity of it, I guess.

Oh my. The iPhone. I would have cried. My iPhone is like my third child.
The crowd levels se nice. I thought they would be crazy for presidents day weekend.

I LOOOOOVE it when the park is like that !!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

We decided we would head North. You might be wondering, well, to what ride? I think we were really on autopilot at that point, but we knew the other targets -- two other mountains to conquer == were on the other side of the park. We had a long walk ahead of us, and we kept alert for what would make us deviate from our path.

We walked by the go-carts...not even a glimmer of interest. Here come the teacups -- no question, neither of us are fans of getting dizzy and nauseous. I took note of the construction, but didn't pay much attention to that.

And around the corner was Pooh!

Construction was newly complete, and not many people were in line, so we dropped by Pooh's house and checked to see if he was home.

Hmmm...by the looks of the honey on the table, he had just left. I felt a momentary bit of envy for the shorter visitors who could just walk on in and make themselves at home, but we would have looked silly going in.

This contraption, I didn't fully understand.

Ah, here was Pooh. He was thinking of things to do. I guess he hired some construction workers after he thought of them.

Suddenly, I had a fit, or convulsion or something, and took a weird picture of the sun, rising over Pooh's new spot.

OMGosh -- decision point!! Are we children, or are we adults?? We're in between -- how do we resolve this??

I shall be telling this with a sigh, somewhere ages and ages hence...two paths converged in a garden and I -- I took the path...(sigh)

...that did not include all the fun stuff.

Look! This section looked all lonely...did we have to take the path more traveled by?

We climbed aboard our honey pot, and have a rather eventful ride...isn't it a beautiful story?

We stumbled out of the clever shop, meant to make us go, "aww!" -- which we did -- and found ourselves in the sunshine again.

Nothing else really called to us to ride behind the castle, although I love Peter Pan...don't believe we rode that one. At some point along in this area, Melissa asked me the question for the first time:

"Are we going to eat lunch at Columbia Harbour House?"

Yes!! I love that place, and we eat there every time, regardless. Satisfied for the moment, Melissa led on.

Suddenly, I spied something --

No, not the stroller parking. It's the house in the background -- that used to be the place where the skyway ride (whatever it was called) would have riders come back to, or get on at. I should know more about this obscure piece of Disney history, but I don't feel like looking it up and regurgitating it like I've always known it. I just LOVE that this is still here!!

Then, Melissa points out a door that CMs use...hmmm...

But back to that house. I'm thinking, what are they doing with all that landscaping and house and stuff now??

Part of it looks like it's been chopped off:

And, the pathway up to it is closed off by items they have just blocking the path. It's really an odd area.

Hmmm...what would we do next?


I know, short update, but I felt like doing something today!!

 

[jmskinner]

Now I was excited to check out the new Pooh queue. So here are my pics






And of course I attempt ride photos, but this is a hard one because the vehicle is always jumping around




Random crowd pic






Now, the reason I pointed out that door CM's use, is because my DS and I took one of the Science educational classes last Summer and got to go behind the scenes through that door. We got to check out the Haunted Mansion from behind the scenes. All we saw were the computers and stood in the back of the dining room scene. I highly recommend those classes if you can fit them in, but you have to buy a park ticket even though you have an AP. And that park ticket is only good that week. The only downside to the program.

Back to you Vickie.

 

[SimmerBaggins]

The reason for this title is that I know that we ended up getting FPs for BTMRR and Splash Mountain, but my pictures are sporadic from this point on. So, while I have memories of riding BTMRR, I can't remember when it happened, or how many times. I just know -- and am telling you now -- we rode it and had a great time.

Now, I am basing the rest of my story on the photographs, and Melissa will have to tell you where to insert BTMRR or anything else I've forgotten because I didn't take a picture of it.

I know, I'm a sad case. Chalk it up to months delay in reporting, and subsequent "chemo brain"!!

On our way to the Mountains, I saw this graffiti that I had never seen before -- too cute!

Melissa likes to take pictures of Splash, so when I saw this interloper, I pointed him out to her:

Suddenly, there were two!

We had our FPs in hand, and came back around to ride Haunted Mansion!

They were just beginning to put the new enhancements to the ride, so I was taking extra pics...

What a dear old lady with a rose...

Something happened during this ride...did Melissa point something out to me? She had gone through the "behind the scenes" tour. I did read somewhere that the Imagineers didn't take into account mirror images when they created the dancing ghosts -- therefore, the ladies are leading the men!

After this, hunger for second breakfast kicked in. Doesn't everyone have second breakfasts? They are suggested for those folks who are trying to increase their metabolism. There was a snack area just outside of Haunted Mansion, close to the Hall of Presidents -- as we neared that area, Melissa worried,

"Did you still want to eat at CHH?" Maybe she thought I was deluding my luncheon appetite.

"Absolutely, yes!" I responded. And so, permission seemed to be granted to enjoy a pre-CHH snack.

Don't be thinking I eat like this all the time. But I like to think I am somewhat healthier than an average Texan...

Melissa ate a healthy snack, too, but don't remember what it was.

Next up, making a splash!

 

[jmskinner]

I need to get busy doing more packing and cleaning out of the house, but thought I would update in case Vickie is waiting on me. I honestly don't remember what all we did either, but hopefully my pics will allow for the story.

I took the same pic as Vickie of the grafitti




Love pics of empty parks


One of the things I will miss about living in FL is the wildlife


I think we got FP's to Splash and rode BTMRR. I'm really not sure about the FP's but I know those pics of the birds on top of Splash were taken while in line for BTMRR, because this is part of the queue area






And here is the proof that we rode


Vickie's holding on again!



Now, you notice I didn't get pics of those birds on top of Splah, that's because my lens doesn't have a good zoom, I have another I didn't bring this day.

But I had to stop for pics of Splash




Or wait, maybe I did try to get a pic of the bird


Hmmm, didn't take pics at HM, guess I was too busy talking. I was actually pointing out several hidden Mickey's while on HM. I didn't tell Vickie any of the secrets I had learned while on the science tour with Jacob. Part of it has spoiled several rides for me.

And since Vickie posted a pic of me eating my apples, here she is


And I was worried about her not wanting to eat at CHH. I was really hungry and looking forward to it. Guess I am use to the hubby, if he eats breakfast, he doesn't want lunch.

Ok Vickie, back to you now.

 

[Minnie&Nana]

OMGOSH!! I absolutely LOVE all of y'all's pics!! LOVE!!! And how much fun you had!

Funny, when I saw the pics of BLT hallway, I was thinking how much I missed the CR hallways and it made me want to stay there again (CR, haven't tried BLT yet - which still makes me think of a sandwich. ). I like what you said about the mods and the pretty walks to the rooms; My fave walk would be at FQ.

Anyway, what I love about your pics, besides the ones of the two of you, is that the pics take me back and I can almost hear and smell the MK. My last visit was not so great - no strolling through, taking in all the sights and sounds - next time for sure.

Had no idea they were painting the MK so it would look like it did when it opened! Cannot wait to see it in 2012, looking like the old days.

Happy that they've so far kept the old skyway bldgs, but from your pics it's looking to be falling a part, so it may be gone soon. Wish it would be brought back, rather than demoilished.

GREAT TR!!!!

 

[LuluLovesDisney]

I am absolutely loving your TR!! I hope my best friend and I are lucky enough to have a girls trip together someday!

My mom had breast cancer in 1998 and she is doing great today so I just want to send you some <3 there.

Well you guys made me laugh with your balloons and your teenager drama but also tear up. I am really glad you decided to share this with all of us.

I also LOVE the Contemporary so I was overjoyed to see so much of BLT. It looks amazing!

Those nachos and drinks don't look half bad either!

 

[burly]

Just Read the whole thing. What fun! Looking forward to more.

 

[jmskinner]

OMGOSH!! I absolutely LOVE all of y'all's pics!! LOVE!!! And how much fun you had!

Funny, when I saw the pics of BLT hallway, I was thinking how much I missed the CR hallways and it made me want to stay there again (CR, haven't tried BLT yet - which still makes me think of a sandwich. ). I like what you said about the mods and the pretty walks to the rooms; My fave walk would be at FQ.

Anyway, what I love about your pics, besides the ones of the two of you, is that the pics take me back and I can almost hear and smell the MK. My last visit was not so great - no strolling through, taking in all the sights and sounds - next time for sure.

Had no idea they were painting the MK so it would look like it did when it opened! Cannot wait to see it in 2012, looking like the old days.

Happy that they've so far kept the old skyway bldgs, but from your pics it's looking to be falling a part, so it may be gone soon. Wish it would be brought back, rather than demoilished.

GREAT TR!!!!

Good to hear from you!!! I thought I saw something about them removing that skyway bldg, but I may be wrong. It's a pretty area and seems like they could do something with it, a ride or show or something.

And is that a goof on your countdown, thought you were going for your 30th birthdays.

I am absolutely loving your TR!! I hope my best friend and I are lucky enough to have a girls trip together someday!

My mom had breast cancer in 1998 and she is doing great today so I just want to send you some <3 there.

Well you guys made me laugh with your balloons and your teenager drama but also tear up. I am really glad you decided to share this with all of us.

I also LOVE the Contemporary so I was overjoyed to see so much of BLT. It looks amazing!

Those nachos and drinks don't look half bad either!

Glad your mother is doing great! And you and your BFF should make that trip.

Those nachos and drinks were good!

 

[jmskinner]

Just Read the whole thing. What fun! Looking forward to more.

You posted just as I was posting. Thanks for following! We still have a lot more to come.

I'm sure Vickie will be out here soon. She has her nephew this weekend and I bet she has her hands full.

 

[PoohGal05]

I am enjoying yall's trip report! Sounds like it was an amazing trip and I can't wait to read more!

 

[JacquiBee]

Love this TR. Went back and read the PTR too, sounds just like the way we travel!!! You've inspired me to think about a girls-only WDW vacation. Only problem is I have no friends who have been there as much as me, certainly none who love WDW as much as I do... Oh well, I'll plan it and then find someone who wants to go...ha ha ha. Can't wait for the next installment!

 

[TinksThree]

Your chosen path this day sounds much as I would do it!! I loved the new Pooh queue but since we were all "grown-ups" we chose to not play along as we went...plus there was no line!!

I love pictures of empty parks too!! And I CHH!!! It is almost a must for me too!!!

I hope the two of you are having a Happy 4th!!!

 

[punkin1763]

I'm in!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

OMGOSH!! I absolutely LOVE all of y'all's pics!! LOVE!!! And how much fun you had!

Funny, when I saw the pics of BLT hallway, I was thinking how much I missed the CR hallways and it made me want to stay there again (CR, haven't tried BLT yet - which still makes me think of a sandwich. ). I like what you said about the mods and the pretty walks to the rooms; My fave walk would be at FQ.

Anyway, what I love about your pics, besides the ones of the two of you, is that the pics take me back and I can almost hear and smell the MK. My last visit was not so great - no strolling through, taking in all the sights and sounds - next time for sure.

Had no idea they were painting the MK so it would look like it did when it opened! Cannot wait to see it in 2012, looking like the old days.

Happy that they've so far kept the old skyway bldgs, but from your pics it's looking to be falling a part, so it may be gone soon. Wish it would be brought back, rather than demoilished.

GREAT TR!!!!

I know what you mean about the pictures -- I really like looking at OLD pictures of WDW, too! Doing this TR really makes me want to get planning on the next great WDW adventure. (I think of the sandwich, too! )

I am absolutely loving your TR!! I hope my best friend and I are lucky enough to have a girls trip together someday!

My mom had breast cancer in 1998 and she is doing great today so I just want to send you some <3 there.

Well you guys made me laugh with your balloons and your teenager drama but also tear up. I am really glad you decided to share this with all of us.

I also LOVE the Contemporary so I was overjoyed to see so much of BLT. It looks amazing!

Those nachos and drinks don't look half bad either!

Thanks so much! I love this forum and the ability to share our stories with others -- I know if we had done this sooner (I take responsibility), it would have been a better TR, but so glad we are doing it now.

Thanks for the well-wishes -- I'm amazed how many people have gone through this disease and come through it stronger.

And, omgosh, I would love some of those nachos and that margarita about now!!

Just Read the whole thing. What fun! Looking forward to more.

Thanks for joining! Looking forward to telling more!

I am enjoying yall's trip report! Sounds like it was an amazing trip and I can't wait to read more!

Thank you!! I wish I had more detail, but that's the sad part...I've learned my lesson: tell a TR earlier rather than later!!

Love this TR. Went back and read the PTR too, sounds just like the way we travel!!! You've inspired me to think about a girls-only WDW vacation. Only problem is I have no friends who have been there as much as me, certainly none who love WDW as much as I do... Oh well, I'll plan it and then find someone who wants to go...ha ha ha. Can't wait for the next installment!

Oh, go out and convert them! Thanks for reading up on us! I never would have thought Melissa would have become so hard-core on WDW as she is, but knowing her to be a park fanatic, I knew she'd take to it like a duck to water. Now, if I can just get her to go on a cruise...

Your chosen path this day sounds much as I would do it!! I loved the new Pooh queue but since we were all "grown-ups" we chose to not play along as we went...plus there was no line!!

I love pictures of empty parks too!! And I CHH!!! It is almost a must for me too!!!

I hope the two of you are having a Happy 4th!!!

I know, right?? I've almost come to think of it as the Mountain tour path...

We had a great 4th of July -- a coworker invited us to his cabin out at Leakey on the Frio River, and we really enjoyed just being outdoors and swimming in the river. No fireworks, tho... Too dry.

I'm in!

Thanks for hopping aboard...more to come soon!

 

[SimmerBaggins]

And since Vickie posted a pic of me eating my apples, here she is


And I was worried about her not wanting to eat at CHH. I was really hungry and looking forward to it. Guess I am use to the hubby, if he eats breakfast, he doesn't want lunch.

I look like I'm singing into that carrot.

Do I look like I skip a meal in favor of another?