Bloodhound
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Hey there BH, you can call me Mom, Java, Steph... hey you.... whatever!
Thanks for the birthday greetings!
Thanks ...then mom it will be
Ultimate Kool-Aid Shot: Gearing Up for that HOT DATE - New 1/1
- Thread starter javamom
- Start date
Thanks ...then mom it will be
javamom
<font color=green>Rumored Avatar Fairy<br><font co
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Day 3 Contined
Crashdads Adventures Without Me
According to Crash, they did head over to Little Mermaid as was discussed. Then they headed over to the Sith area to see if they could find some dated souvies for Star Wars Weekends 2008. He looked and looked and asked and asked, and everyone was out of dated pins. He was really disappointed, and now, perturbed that they are now on Ebay for sell. Kinda sucks when you pay money to attend an event and cant even score one pin to remember it by because joysuckers gotta go and buy them all to sell for profit, JMTickedOffO.
Pinless, they wandered around and saw Darth Vader, or rather watched other people with Darth Vader. Crash said that there was a very small boy in a wheel chair, wearing a Make A Wish button. He asked if he could hug Darth Vader. According to Crash, Vader sorta looked around like to see if anyone was watching and he walked over to boy and gestured to the boys guardian to see if it was OK, and got the nod to pick up this tiny little guy and gave him a big hug. He said that the little guy was in tears he was so happy, as was much of the crowd that watched this transpire.
I wish that I had seen it. We are sooo blessed. That could easily have been our Peter in that chair. Not that that would be the end of the world, it certainly wasnt for this little guy! For those not aware, we almost lost our Peter when he was 10-days old to congestive heart failure, brought on by a heart defect. He had surgery when he was 11 days old to repair the defect. You would never know it to look at him, other than that he is a little smaller than his peers and always will be, to some degree. He has more stamina and energy than his heart-healthy sister, no doubt. Hes not hyper-active, just driven.
Ok off that rabbit trail where was I? Yes Vader. Ok next, they asked Daddy about a million times. When is Mommy going to be back? At some point they hooked back up with Jack, as he had gone off to ride Rockin Roller Coaster. According to Belle, they sat on a bench and waited for Mommy to call
Which of course, I did as soon as I entered the park again. Soon, we were reunited and headed off to ride Muppets 3D.
This time I remembered to look for the key, but somehow I missed the doormat
go figure, so I screwed that up somehow. Muppets 3D is always a good time ;-) Peter thought it was way cool that they fixed the damage so fast
LOL!! Not sure if he really fell for that, or just really thought it was cool whether it was real or not; and thus, he didnt care either way.
Next, it was on to The Great Movie Ride. Not sure if they changed this ride, or if I had always been in the same group car for each time that I rode it before. Usually, I see the gangster interactive movie scene. This time we saw a cowboy interactive movie scene. So I am thinking that it depends upon whether you are in car A, or car B, as to which performance scene you are going to see? At any rate, I still like this ride, particularly the Wizard of Oz scene. I also think that the montage at the end was a little different this time, updated a little methinks.
Next, I made everyone go back to Little Mermaid because I wanted to see it, and Jack had never seen it. I told him it was pretty neat, and again, I am sure that he doubted me (just like last trip when he thought the same thing about Beauty and The Beast show). He did think it was neat, but the cool and the serene lighting made him doze a couple of times. So I suppose, coming from Darth Brotherous, that is high praise!
We wandered over to Toy Story Mania, but it was 101 (down for repair, or it might have been some other 101 code given the throngs of people that wanted to ride). Sadly, we never did get to ride this really cool new ride on this trip heh, yeah, there WILL be another one dontchaknow! Yay! Yay? This is what happens when you watch way too much Zach and Cody with your kids
We wandered back over toward Muppets as it was time to check-in for our Fantasmic Dinner Package meal at Mama Melroses. We got checked-in, and I excused myself to use the ladies room. By the time that I exited, my family was already seated.
The Fantasmic Dinner Package gets each person an Appetizer, Entrée, Dessert, and a pass for advanced seating for the Fantasmic show later. The kids had a kids menu to chose from. They could chose form a couple of set plates, or do a mix and match of their own. So, we each had several choices to make.
Appetizers:
I wanted the Mozarella and Tomatoes, but of course, there were no tomatoes to be had. Darned, cursed Real World reached in got me!! So, I ordered the Caesar Salad. Crash ordered the Mixed Greens, Jack ordered the Artisan Breads and Spreads. Belle ordered Garden Salad, and Peter picked the Minestrone Soup. These were all good, but I wished that I had ordered the Breads too, so that there would be more to share. We all shared a bit of the appetizers around the table.
Entrees:
Crash and I both ordered the Charred Butcher Tender Steak, Jack got the Penne Alla Vodka, Peter chose the Cheese Pizza, and Belle picked the Penne Pasta with cheese sauce. I have ordered the steak before, so I knew that it would be good and the polenta that comes with it is delish. Everyone liked their picks.
Here is a pic of the Penne Alla Vodka
Desserts:
I ordered the Honey Hazelnut and Ricotta Cheesecake, Crash got the Warm Chocolate Truffle Cake, Jack picked the Crema Limone, and the kiddos both got sundaes. But, it took forever for our desserts to come out. The waiter came and told us they were on their way, but it still didnt come. He also stopped refilling our drinks, which lost him a good tip. The DDE card isnt applicable to the Fantasmic Package, so no discount this time. The desserts here are their weakest point, IMHO. With our Fantasmic pass in hand, we paid and left.
Next we made our way over to the take in a little of the Hyperspace Hoopla. This was in the same place that the Jedi Academy was earlier. This was already in progress as we neared and it was packed with people. There were Star Wars characters all over the place signing autographs within the crowd watching the Hoopla. I place Peter on my shoulders as he watched them do the Jawa Dance or as it has become known at our house, the Ooo-chee-nee(!) Dance To the right, to the left, arms up and back with an Ooo-chee-nee! Reverse, and repeat. This became Peters new favorite thing. We decided to head to the near-deserted Star Tours queue for another ride. Peter Ooo-chee-need in the emptyish queue.
Finally, it was time to head for Oscars to use our Fantasmic pass. We were let in right away, and we headed down the path the leads to the Fantasmic amphitheatre. There were only a handful of guests heading down this path (waaaaaay better than the cattle call of waiting for the regular ropes to drop for regular seating), so Peter Oooo-chee-need his way down the whole way, with a huge grin on his face. You had to grin back, he was having a great night, and his enthusiasm was contagious. We found good seats quickly and settled in to wait for the show to begin. Belle made an instant friend in a little girl sitting in front of us. They were inseparable until time for the show. Turns out that her Dad used to live in the burbs near us, some years ago. We talked small-town, small-talk for a few minutes. "It's a small world..." and now that you have that stuck in your heads...
Finally, the show started. I still dont get the Pocahontas part. Also, has that part with the animals at the beginning always been there as well??? Anyway, Fantasmic was fantastic again! As we exited, we hit the bathroom just in time because on our way out of the bathroom a line had formed to get in. We wandered toward the entrance and I couldnt help but recall our last trip and the night that we were leaving Studios quite slowly. We stopped at some stores and bought hats and such, as if we were just trying to make the great night last a bit longer. This was a great night too, but there would be no lingering tonight. Crash was hurting a bit, so we needed to get back to the Boardwalk. So, we headed post-haste to the boat dock.
In short order, we were on the boat. This time, we would stay on all the way to Boardwalk instead of getting off at the Swan and walking back over the bridge. As we docked at the Yacht and Beach Club docks, a call came over the pilots radio that they were looking for a lost little boy. The boy was not among us. When we docked at the Boardwalk, we saw his family standing at the top of the gangway, waiting for word. I never did find out if they found him???
Saying a little prayer for the family, I pointed my troops toward the room. In no time, we were seated on the balcony enjoying a glass of wine.
Ahhh, this was bliss ;-) Better than bliss, this was bliss with Pinot Noir!
Sorry, so blurry, blame the wine!!!
You guessed it, showers and bed. We have a date with a Palace in the AM!
Up next: Breakfast has a rope drop?!!
According to Crash, they did head over to Little Mermaid as was discussed. Then they headed over to the Sith area to see if they could find some dated souvies for Star Wars Weekends 2008. He looked and looked and asked and asked, and everyone was out of dated pins. He was really disappointed, and now, perturbed that they are now on Ebay for sell. Kinda sucks when you pay money to attend an event and cant even score one pin to remember it by because joysuckers gotta go and buy them all to sell for profit, JMTickedOffO.
Pinless, they wandered around and saw Darth Vader, or rather watched other people with Darth Vader. Crash said that there was a very small boy in a wheel chair, wearing a Make A Wish button. He asked if he could hug Darth Vader. According to Crash, Vader sorta looked around like to see if anyone was watching and he walked over to boy and gestured to the boys guardian to see if it was OK, and got the nod to pick up this tiny little guy and gave him a big hug. He said that the little guy was in tears he was so happy, as was much of the crowd that watched this transpire.
I wish that I had seen it. We are sooo blessed. That could easily have been our Peter in that chair. Not that that would be the end of the world, it certainly wasnt for this little guy! For those not aware, we almost lost our Peter when he was 10-days old to congestive heart failure, brought on by a heart defect. He had surgery when he was 11 days old to repair the defect. You would never know it to look at him, other than that he is a little smaller than his peers and always will be, to some degree. He has more stamina and energy than his heart-healthy sister, no doubt. Hes not hyper-active, just driven.
Ok off that rabbit trail where was I? Yes Vader. Ok next, they asked Daddy about a million times. When is Mommy going to be back? At some point they hooked back up with Jack, as he had gone off to ride Rockin Roller Coaster. According to Belle, they sat on a bench and waited for Mommy to call
Which of course, I did as soon as I entered the park again. Soon, we were reunited and headed off to ride Muppets 3D.
This time I remembered to look for the key, but somehow I missed the doormat
go figure, so I screwed that up somehow. Muppets 3D is always a good time ;-) Peter thought it was way cool that they fixed the damage so fast
LOL!! Not sure if he really fell for that, or just really thought it was cool whether it was real or not; and thus, he didnt care either way.Next, it was on to The Great Movie Ride. Not sure if they changed this ride, or if I had always been in the same group car for each time that I rode it before. Usually, I see the gangster interactive movie scene. This time we saw a cowboy interactive movie scene. So I am thinking that it depends upon whether you are in car A, or car B, as to which performance scene you are going to see? At any rate, I still like this ride, particularly the Wizard of Oz scene. I also think that the montage at the end was a little different this time, updated a little methinks.
Next, I made everyone go back to Little Mermaid because I wanted to see it, and Jack had never seen it. I told him it was pretty neat, and again, I am sure that he doubted me (just like last trip when he thought the same thing about Beauty and The Beast show). He did think it was neat, but the cool and the serene lighting made him doze a couple of times. So I suppose, coming from Darth Brotherous, that is high praise!
We wandered over to Toy Story Mania, but it was 101 (down for repair, or it might have been some other 101 code given the throngs of people that wanted to ride). Sadly, we never did get to ride this really cool new ride on this trip heh, yeah, there WILL be another one dontchaknow! Yay! Yay? This is what happens when you watch way too much Zach and Cody with your kids
We wandered back over toward Muppets as it was time to check-in for our Fantasmic Dinner Package meal at Mama Melroses. We got checked-in, and I excused myself to use the ladies room. By the time that I exited, my family was already seated.
The Fantasmic Dinner Package gets each person an Appetizer, Entrée, Dessert, and a pass for advanced seating for the Fantasmic show later. The kids had a kids menu to chose from. They could chose form a couple of set plates, or do a mix and match of their own. So, we each had several choices to make.
Appetizers:
I wanted the Mozarella and Tomatoes, but of course, there were no tomatoes to be had. Darned, cursed Real World reached in got me!! So, I ordered the Caesar Salad. Crash ordered the Mixed Greens, Jack ordered the Artisan Breads and Spreads. Belle ordered Garden Salad, and Peter picked the Minestrone Soup. These were all good, but I wished that I had ordered the Breads too, so that there would be more to share. We all shared a bit of the appetizers around the table.
Entrees:
Crash and I both ordered the Charred Butcher Tender Steak, Jack got the Penne Alla Vodka, Peter chose the Cheese Pizza, and Belle picked the Penne Pasta with cheese sauce. I have ordered the steak before, so I knew that it would be good and the polenta that comes with it is delish. Everyone liked their picks.
Here is a pic of the Penne Alla Vodka
Desserts:
I ordered the Honey Hazelnut and Ricotta Cheesecake, Crash got the Warm Chocolate Truffle Cake, Jack picked the Crema Limone, and the kiddos both got sundaes. But, it took forever for our desserts to come out. The waiter came and told us they were on their way, but it still didnt come. He also stopped refilling our drinks, which lost him a good tip. The DDE card isnt applicable to the Fantasmic Package, so no discount this time. The desserts here are their weakest point, IMHO. With our Fantasmic pass in hand, we paid and left.
Next we made our way over to the take in a little of the Hyperspace Hoopla. This was in the same place that the Jedi Academy was earlier. This was already in progress as we neared and it was packed with people. There were Star Wars characters all over the place signing autographs within the crowd watching the Hoopla. I place Peter on my shoulders as he watched them do the Jawa Dance or as it has become known at our house, the Ooo-chee-nee(!) Dance To the right, to the left, arms up and back with an Ooo-chee-nee! Reverse, and repeat. This became Peters new favorite thing. We decided to head to the near-deserted Star Tours queue for another ride. Peter Ooo-chee-need in the emptyish queue.
Finally, it was time to head for Oscars to use our Fantasmic pass. We were let in right away, and we headed down the path the leads to the Fantasmic amphitheatre. There were only a handful of guests heading down this path (waaaaaay better than the cattle call of waiting for the regular ropes to drop for regular seating), so Peter Oooo-chee-need his way down the whole way, with a huge grin on his face. You had to grin back, he was having a great night, and his enthusiasm was contagious. We found good seats quickly and settled in to wait for the show to begin. Belle made an instant friend in a little girl sitting in front of us. They were inseparable until time for the show. Turns out that her Dad used to live in the burbs near us, some years ago. We talked small-town, small-talk for a few minutes. "It's a small world..."
and now that you have that stuck in your heads...Finally, the show started. I still dont get the Pocahontas part. Also, has that part with the animals at the beginning always been there as well??? Anyway, Fantasmic was fantastic again! As we exited, we hit the bathroom just in time because on our way out of the bathroom a line had formed to get in. We wandered toward the entrance and I couldnt help but recall our last trip and the night that we were leaving Studios quite slowly. We stopped at some stores and bought hats and such, as if we were just trying to make the great night last a bit longer. This was a great night too, but there would be no lingering tonight. Crash was hurting a bit, so we needed to get back to the Boardwalk. So, we headed post-haste to the boat dock.
In short order, we were on the boat. This time, we would stay on all the way to Boardwalk instead of getting off at the Swan and walking back over the bridge. As we docked at the Yacht and Beach Club docks, a call came over the pilots radio that they were looking for a lost little boy. The boy was not among us. When we docked at the Boardwalk, we saw his family standing at the top of the gangway, waiting for word. I never did find out if they found him???
Saying a little prayer for the family, I pointed my troops toward the room. In no time, we were seated on the balcony enjoying a glass of wine.
Ahhh, this was bliss ;-) Better than bliss, this was bliss with Pinot Noir!
Sorry, so blurry, blame the wine!!!
You guessed it, showers and bed. We have a date with a Palace in the AM!
Up next: Breakfast has a rope drop?!!
Charleston Princess
DIS Legend
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Lovely update! That bit about the little boy and Darth Vader made me tear up -- how sweet! I hope the other little boy was reunited with his parents! That is so scary!
Wonderful way to end the day with wine on your balcony and a gorgeous view!
Wonderful way to end the day with wine on your balcony and a gorgeous view!
Charleston Princess
DIS Legend
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I think the forums are embracing their inner Yoda.
Or should that be:
Embracing their inner Yoda, the forums seem to be.
Yes, I think they are since my reply to your latest post was posted before your update -- so it makes me look all ESPy!!!!
Backstage_Gal
<font color=darkorchid>Let me rephrase the dog ste
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Great update, Steph! Sounds like you had a wonderful day.
Bloodhound
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Bloodhound
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Bloodhound
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Very nice update...I really loved Fantasmic ...what no ToT..? R n RC was down for rehab...next time 
Bloodhound
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The last few pictures I posted were designed by rumblytumbly for printing transfers to make t-shirrts... she really likes to see the finished product if you have the time to post on her thread if you use one... and she has hundreds to chose from ....a link is in her siganture
javamom
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Very nice update...I really loved Fantasmic ...what no ToT..? R n RC was down for rehab...next time
Oh nope, no one wanted to ride it.
But Jack managed to get his RnR fix.
Great update! The story of Darth and the MAW child is just what Disney Magic is all about.
Your view is amazing! I want to stay there someday! Someday!
And I vow to see Fantasmic this next trip. We've always had intentions but have never made it to see in the past.
Keep em' coming!
Allyson
Your view is amazing! I want to stay there someday! Someday!
And I vow to see Fantasmic this next trip. We've always had intentions but have never made it to see in the past.
Keep em' coming!
Allyson
Bloodhound
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I found this and thought you may like it...designed by Lisabelll
Bloodhound
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Hmmm stuf gets deletaed off photobucket ...oh well it was star wars mickey scene inside of a mickey head
Happy Independance Day Everyone
javamom
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Thanks Allyson! Oh do, see Fantasmic! As my son said in our last trip report when he saw it, "This place should just be called Awesome World!"
javamom
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Day 4 Monday, June 9th Breakfast Has A Rope Drop?!
Stitch called and woke me up again, so that I could wake everyone else. I was really excited this morning because we were going to Crystal Palace. I had to miss this last trip, because I stayed in the room with our ailing Jack. So, I rallied everyone to get up and get dressed. Yes, I am pretty sure that I made sure that they were dressed. Yes, I was a little excited and wanting some of that breakfast lasagna!
We made it down to the bus depot, only to find out that we had just missed a bus to Magic Kingdom (MK). So, we were faced with a choice: wait for another bus and possibly be late to our 8:05 ADR for Crystal Palace, or hail the nearest cab. We chose, of course, the cab. After a couple of moments confusion as to whether we should really transport 5 people in the back of a sedan (WTHeck), we were off to the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC). Another about 12 bucks well spent. Soon, we were on the monorail toward MK with a tired-looking cast member in route to the Grand Floridian.
Finally, the monorail pulled up to the MK and we were through bag-check and waiting in the Character Breakfast line to get through the turnstiles. Someone at the head of the line was having some sort of problem that was holding up the line. Your guess is as good as mine as to what the trouble was? Could have been anything from lack of ADR to lack of/problem with park ticket/s.
We made it through the turnstiles; only to be queued behind ropes and this queue was quickly running out of room. I did not know that there was a rope drop for breakfast??! Crashdad didnt fill me in on this info from the last trip. It wasnt that big of a deal, but had I know about it, I would have tried to get us there earlier to be at the head of this line. I really, really, wanted to get an empty shot of Main Street with my kids walking toward the castle. Oh well.
Soon, we were seated at the Crystal Palace and our waiter informed us that we were seated at the first table that the characters would visit on this side of the restaurant. Cool! Here are a few shots from our table:
The Rotunda
Peter giving Dad bunny ears
Tigger!
Piglet!
Eeyore!
My 2 Eeyores
Food:
Our meal was yummy, even the breakfast lasagna. Word of caution, it is very, very rich. A little bit goes a long way. If you like bananas, berries, pudding, and pancakes, you will like this. This dish reminds me of Joey Tribbiani though. As I was eating it, I could hear him saying, Bananas good, berries good, pudding good peas Oh wait that last part was on the show not on my plate. Picturing Matt Le Blanc wasnt too bad either.
Ok where was I? Oh yes, food was good. Used the DDE card again, and even tipped our waiter a little extra as he was really good. Which is saying something because I normally dont tip much at a buffet meal. We waved goodbye to Tigger and friends and headed onward. We decided to split up for a bit and send Jack off to Tomorrowland to grab fastpasses for everyone for Space Mountain. The rest of us headed toward Adventureland.
There was no line for Aladdins Carpet and we had never tried this ride, so we hopped on. Peter and I rode up front and Belle and Daddy rode in the back. Their control didnt work, though, so we did not tilt forward and back. Peter and I did make our carpet rise and fall though. We did not get spit on by the camels.
Next we headed to Splash Mountain. I have never ridden this, nor has Crash. Belle loved it last trip and had been begging her Daddy to ride with her ever since. So they had an agreement that she would ride Test Track with him, if he would ride Splash with her. So it was time for Daddy to make good on his promise.
But first a side story: You may remember that we had survived the maniacal clown slide, Pennywise, at the Boardwalk. Well, I found out (after the fact) that Crash had never been on a water slide and he had been afraid of them. But, this trip, he decided that he would conquer this fear and stare down the clown. He loved the slide! So, as we are rounding through the queue, I realize that Crashs anxiety level is rising. He is conquering another fear. Several times I ask him if he sure that he wants to ride, and that he doesnt HAVE to ride. But, board a log we did and soon we were off to our Laughing Place.
Crash loved Splash! I loved it too, but I got SOAKED. I mean really soaked. We were in the back row, nuff said. I had wet underwear. Yuck. Still, I have a permagrin on my face and it gets bigger when I see the permagrin on Crashs face. We HAD to buy the ride photo!
If I get a chance to scan it in, I will post it later. We both look constipated.
Anyway, Splash is conquered and everyone is happy-go-lucky. This ride would set the theme of the day as several of us would periodically be found either singing or humming the following little modified ditty, Oh everybodys got a Laughin Place, a Laughin Place, a Laughin Place. Oh ho-ho-ho, everybodys got a Laughin Place and mines at Disney World.
We wandered over to see if the rafts to the island are up yet for a little paintbrush findin, but they arent yet. We meet back up with Jack, and he wants to ride Splash with Peter. So, the rest of us waited in the dump shop while they rode.
We waited, and waited, and waited. I bought a Mickey Mouse clip-on fan for my room (yeah that didnt work out too well). Finally, I called Jack only to find out that they are stuck at the bottom of the last ramp up on the ride. The cast member at the dump shop told us that it happens all the time. Sometimes the ducks will get on the track areas, or a lizard will get on the ride photo camera. Eventually, they emerged each bearing special any-attraction-any-time fastpass good for the next 30 days.
With one mountain down, the natural next choice was to tackle another. So, off we headed to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Expect that Crash had hit the end of his adventure streak and opted to sit out this ride with Belle, who wanted no part of it. So Peter, Jack, and I headed toward the 20 min stand-by line. When we got off, I told Crash that it wasnt any worse than Test Track (which he loves). So, now he is disappointed that he didnt ride it. While we rode, Belle got a little Dream Moment of her own. A cast member was nearby and asked her if she would like to pan for gold. She sifted and found some Mickey head gold and received a Dream Certificate.
We decided to head toward Tomorrowland by way of Liberty Square, and then Fantasyland, hitting rides along the way. First up, was Haunted Mansion, with a 10-minute stand-by line. I was given a lanyard upon entry to give to the cast member upon being seated on the ride, this in order for them to update the wait time. I am not even sure that we waited 10 mins, as we were in the dead center of the room and then seated pretty quickly. Anyway, we were curious to see what changes the rehab had brought to this favorite. We all agreed that the Madame Leota crystal ball scene was improved, and glad to see that they had replaced the spider thing too. My favorite scene will always be the ballroom/dining room scene. I think that I could sit there and watch that for hours. Its soo cool. It looks like fun, dancing down there.
Peter enjoyed this ride more this time than he did last trip, when I think he just found it to be weird. This time, he seemed to really enjoy the Happy Haunts. But he really was anxious for us to get to his favorite, Peter Pans Flight. So, we hung a left and hoofed it toward Peter Pan. The line was enormous, so we got Fastpasses for it and continued on toward Space Mountain to use our first set of fastpasses.
As we are trudging through Fantasyland, it suddenly occurs to me that it was hotter than Hades in Fantasyland and there was NO shade to be had. Wow lets fill up the hottest part of the park with families with little kids at 10am. Fantasyland is the Easy Bake Oven of Magic Kingdom, hands down. It was cooler in every other part of MK than Fantasyland. So word to the wise, for those with little kiddles, get to Fantasyland early in the AM if you dont want to bake. I really felt sorry for these families that had just arrived and were baking in the long lines. OUCH!
We got the heck out of Fantasyland as fast as we could, and beat feet to Space Mountain. If you read my last report, you may remember that we got no Space love last trip. It was 101 every time we went to try to ride it. So, we were excited to get to ride it. Well, most of us were. Peter, Jack, and myself were pumped to check off that third Mountain of the MK Mountain Trifecta. Crashdad has really wanted to ride it, ever since he was a kid. But yes, there was a little fear there. It was time to slay another dragon. Since Belle wanted no part of Space Mountain, (after her bad experience on RnR last trip) we decided to do child swap. I rode first with the boys, while Crash waited with Belle. Then Crash rode and we waited for him, where they had him wait for us. He was all grins, when he got off the ride. Yay, another dragon slain!
Peter liked Space, but I wasnt so sure that he would ride it again. But he just informed me that he cant wait to ride it again. I gave my little guy a big high-five, and a little cabbage patching for completing the Triple Mountain Trifecta!!! I think that Belle was a little jealous that she didnt ride Big Thunder.
After goofing and cooling off in the dump shop, we headed back toward the Easy Bake Oven to use those Peter Pan fastpasses. We had to wait under the light bulb for a couple minutes until our fastpass return time came. There were some Dads in line waiting to use their Im-really-more-important-than-you-fastpasses and they were not happy that they had to wait a few minutes like the rest of us. Yeah that Easy Bake light bulb has some undesirable effects upon people. Soon enough, we were riding our flying pirate ship over London and waving to the Lost Boys. Peter was grinning from ear to ear.
We bid farewell to Fantasyland and pointed ourselves down Main St. to the exit for a much needed break from the crowds and heat. We would return later when the rest of the crowds were baked and gone for the day. Soon we were on a bus headed back to the Boardwalk.
Yep, a rest was in order.
Sometimes when you watch your kids sleeping, I swear its almost like you can see into their souls. You can almost see everything they have been, all that they are, and all that they may one day become. It happens to me almost every time I see Peters scars from his surgery. I swear that I can still see him lying in that isolette, and then so small in that hospital crib, with tubes and wires extruding from every inch of his body. Then in a blink of an eye, I can see him running around making me dizzy; and then again, grown and strong and every bit the good guy that I know he is growing up to become, much like his Daddy. Crash is one of the good guys, and he loves his family deeply. We ARE his Laughing Place, and he is ours as well.
Soon we were back to the room, and I was serving up simple grilled cheese sammies from the kitchen. We snacked on them on the balcony and relaxed. Soon the Easy Bake Oven was nothing but a faint memory. Loved, loved, loved, having the kitchen and the washer and dryer on this trip! It just made things so much easier, from the packing to the snacking. I loved not having to tote home a bunch of stinky clothes to wash. I think there was a short nap of some sorts as well. Then we headed downstairs for some more time with the clown pool.
Refreshed and relaxed, we eventually headed back to MK to take in Wishes and Spectromagic. We arrived on Main St. and decided to quench a Caseys craving. So, we scrounged around for a table and chairs (people were already snatching them up to watch Wishes) and shared a couple of Casey dogs, fries, and drinks. It was a nice snack, and quenched that Caseys craving.
We decided to head over to Fantasyland again to take in Philharmagic. Wow, Fantasyland is soooo much nicer without that Easy Bake Florida sun. Philharmagic is a favorite, and it was great as usual! What happened next, was not so great. As we got up to leave, I did my usual, sweep of the aisle to make sure everyone has everything. Guess what was missing again, even? Yep, the backpack. MY backpack, that had oh just my life in it: camera, cell phone, a little bit of money, etc The rest I could have cared less about, but really needed that camera and cell phone. So, we needed to hoof it back to Caseys as that is where it must have been left.
There was a problem with this plan. The first Spectromagic parade of the night was in progress and we were on the wrong side of Main Street. We squeezed our way through the maddening crowds of the castle hub area to get across Main, ASAP. The parade was just ending, thankfully, but that only made the crowds of humanity swell in all directions. Mercifully, we finally managed to cross Main St. Seriously, nothing but my camera and cell phone would force me to endure that torture. We entered Caseys only to find that the backpack was not where we left it. Oh joy So, I headed to the counter to ask about it. Eventually, I got a cast member to comprehend what I was saying, Yes, it is a blue backpack.. blue, yes thank you. Someone disappeared in the back, someone else came back out and reaffirmed, Yes, it is blue. This someone disappeared again and told me that they did not have it, and to check with City Hall. Oh great.
At this point, I left the family so that they could go grab our usual spot for Wishes, and headed down Main St USA toward City Hall. They were concerned that I would not find them later, since I did not have my cell phone. I told them to go to our usual place to watch, and if I didnt get my backpack, I would at least still be able to find them in that general vicinity. I headed to City Hall, dreading the worst, and hoping for the best. I got there and blurted out something like, I have lost my backpack and it had my whole life in it. The cast member asked me to describe it and where I lost it, etc I told her it was a blue DVC backpack, with a vinyl flap with the DVC logo. She asked me if it was canvas? I told her no, it was navy blue twill, with a leather/vinyl flap. She nodded, and headed back through some doors. Moments later, she arrived holding my life. Everything was still there, even the small amount of cash, and there was an inventory of sorts pinned to it that listed its contents. I was elated, and thanked the cast member.
I headed back up Main St. to meet up with the crew for Wishes! Later, it was decided that the reason that we kept losing the backpack, was because we kept trading it back and forth between us for various reasons. Therefore, since neither of us was used to holding it all the time, we were losing it. So, Crash remained the backpack bearer for the duration of the trip, and we didnt lose it again.
Soon Wishes started, and Tinkerbell flew from the castle. Jack shot the following footage, which I love. Its not so much for the fireworks themselves, but the ending where my big, grown, cell-phone-talking-facial-hair-donning man shows that there is still a part of him that will forever be my Kiss-Me-Darling little boy.
Wishes 6/9/2008
Think hell ever forgive me for posting that? Hee! Yeah, he will.
Anyhow, with Wishes over, we turned and headed to the corner of Main St to find some curb for the second Spectromagic Parade. It wasnt easy, but we did manage to find some unoccupied street. So, we sat down and watched the mass exodus of people leaving after Wishes. It was actually a bit sad. We watched people just trudge along and throw down their trash all over the street. Seriously people, there are trash cans every few feet. Use one, will ya?
We watched them clean up the street to prepare for the parade, and in no time at all it started. Here are some pics:
And here is some video!
Spectromagic 6/9/2008 Part 1
Spectromagic 6/9/2008 part 2
After Spectro, we decided to linger for a while. We headed toward the shops on the opposite side of Main St than we normally do, so that we could see some new things. We looked at glass slippers, Lenox wares, jewelry, and even swords. We stopped to buy a gift for GAKitty, which the kids picked out for her. This is also where I found another really great ice-cold AC vent. Right smack-dab in front of where the glass blower/iron mongers forge was setup. Having prolonged the evening as long as we could, we headed for the busses. Soon, we were back in our home away from home.
Stitch called and woke me up again, so that I could wake everyone else. I was really excited this morning because we were going to Crystal Palace. I had to miss this last trip, because I stayed in the room with our ailing Jack. So, I rallied everyone to get up and get dressed. Yes, I am pretty sure that I made sure that they were dressed. Yes, I was a little excited and wanting some of that breakfast lasagna!
We made it down to the bus depot, only to find out that we had just missed a bus to Magic Kingdom (MK). So, we were faced with a choice: wait for another bus and possibly be late to our 8:05 ADR for Crystal Palace, or hail the nearest cab. We chose, of course, the cab. After a couple of moments confusion as to whether we should really transport 5 people in the back of a sedan (WTHeck), we were off to the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC). Another about 12 bucks well spent. Soon, we were on the monorail toward MK with a tired-looking cast member in route to the Grand Floridian.
Finally, the monorail pulled up to the MK and we were through bag-check and waiting in the Character Breakfast line to get through the turnstiles. Someone at the head of the line was having some sort of problem that was holding up the line. Your guess is as good as mine as to what the trouble was? Could have been anything from lack of ADR to lack of/problem with park ticket/s.
We made it through the turnstiles; only to be queued behind ropes and this queue was quickly running out of room. I did not know that there was a rope drop for breakfast??! Crashdad didnt fill me in on this info from the last trip. It wasnt that big of a deal, but had I know about it, I would have tried to get us there earlier to be at the head of this line. I really, really, wanted to get an empty shot of Main Street with my kids walking toward the castle. Oh well.
Soon, we were seated at the Crystal Palace and our waiter informed us that we were seated at the first table that the characters would visit on this side of the restaurant. Cool! Here are a few shots from our table:
The Rotunda
Peter giving Dad bunny ears
Tigger!
Piglet!
Eeyore!
My 2 Eeyores
Food:
Our meal was yummy, even the breakfast lasagna. Word of caution, it is very, very rich. A little bit goes a long way. If you like bananas, berries, pudding, and pancakes, you will like this. This dish reminds me of Joey Tribbiani though. As I was eating it, I could hear him saying, Bananas good, berries good, pudding good peas Oh wait that last part was on the show not on my plate. Picturing Matt Le Blanc wasnt too bad either.
Ok where was I? Oh yes, food was good. Used the DDE card again, and even tipped our waiter a little extra as he was really good. Which is saying something because I normally dont tip much at a buffet meal. We waved goodbye to Tigger and friends and headed onward. We decided to split up for a bit and send Jack off to Tomorrowland to grab fastpasses for everyone for Space Mountain. The rest of us headed toward Adventureland.
There was no line for Aladdins Carpet and we had never tried this ride, so we hopped on. Peter and I rode up front and Belle and Daddy rode in the back. Their control didnt work, though, so we did not tilt forward and back. Peter and I did make our carpet rise and fall though. We did not get spit on by the camels.
Next we headed to Splash Mountain. I have never ridden this, nor has Crash. Belle loved it last trip and had been begging her Daddy to ride with her ever since. So they had an agreement that she would ride Test Track with him, if he would ride Splash with her. So it was time for Daddy to make good on his promise.
But first a side story: You may remember that we had survived the maniacal clown slide, Pennywise, at the Boardwalk. Well, I found out (after the fact) that Crash had never been on a water slide and he had been afraid of them. But, this trip, he decided that he would conquer this fear and stare down the clown. He loved the slide! So, as we are rounding through the queue, I realize that Crashs anxiety level is rising. He is conquering another fear. Several times I ask him if he sure that he wants to ride, and that he doesnt HAVE to ride. But, board a log we did and soon we were off to our Laughing Place.
Crash loved Splash! I loved it too, but I got SOAKED. I mean really soaked. We were in the back row, nuff said. I had wet underwear. Yuck. Still, I have a permagrin on my face and it gets bigger when I see the permagrin on Crashs face. We HAD to buy the ride photo!
If I get a chance to scan it in, I will post it later. We both look constipated.
Anyway, Splash is conquered and everyone is happy-go-lucky. This ride would set the theme of the day as several of us would periodically be found either singing or humming the following little modified ditty, Oh everybodys got a Laughin Place, a Laughin Place, a Laughin Place. Oh ho-ho-ho, everybodys got a Laughin Place and mines at Disney World.
We wandered over to see if the rafts to the island are up yet for a little paintbrush findin, but they arent yet. We meet back up with Jack, and he wants to ride Splash with Peter. So, the rest of us waited in the dump shop while they rode.
We waited, and waited, and waited. I bought a Mickey Mouse clip-on fan for my room (yeah that didnt work out too well). Finally, I called Jack only to find out that they are stuck at the bottom of the last ramp up on the ride. The cast member at the dump shop told us that it happens all the time. Sometimes the ducks will get on the track areas, or a lizard will get on the ride photo camera. Eventually, they emerged each bearing special any-attraction-any-time fastpass good for the next 30 days.
With one mountain down, the natural next choice was to tackle another. So, off we headed to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Expect that Crash had hit the end of his adventure streak and opted to sit out this ride with Belle, who wanted no part of it. So Peter, Jack, and I headed toward the 20 min stand-by line. When we got off, I told Crash that it wasnt any worse than Test Track (which he loves). So, now he is disappointed that he didnt ride it. While we rode, Belle got a little Dream Moment of her own. A cast member was nearby and asked her if she would like to pan for gold. She sifted and found some Mickey head gold and received a Dream Certificate.
We decided to head toward Tomorrowland by way of Liberty Square, and then Fantasyland, hitting rides along the way. First up, was Haunted Mansion, with a 10-minute stand-by line. I was given a lanyard upon entry to give to the cast member upon being seated on the ride, this in order for them to update the wait time. I am not even sure that we waited 10 mins, as we were in the dead center of the room and then seated pretty quickly. Anyway, we were curious to see what changes the rehab had brought to this favorite. We all agreed that the Madame Leota crystal ball scene was improved, and glad to see that they had replaced the spider thing too. My favorite scene will always be the ballroom/dining room scene. I think that I could sit there and watch that for hours. Its soo cool. It looks like fun, dancing down there.
Peter enjoyed this ride more this time than he did last trip, when I think he just found it to be weird. This time, he seemed to really enjoy the Happy Haunts. But he really was anxious for us to get to his favorite, Peter Pans Flight. So, we hung a left and hoofed it toward Peter Pan. The line was enormous, so we got Fastpasses for it and continued on toward Space Mountain to use our first set of fastpasses.
As we are trudging through Fantasyland, it suddenly occurs to me that it was hotter than Hades in Fantasyland and there was NO shade to be had. Wow lets fill up the hottest part of the park with families with little kids at 10am. Fantasyland is the Easy Bake Oven of Magic Kingdom, hands down. It was cooler in every other part of MK than Fantasyland. So word to the wise, for those with little kiddles, get to Fantasyland early in the AM if you dont want to bake. I really felt sorry for these families that had just arrived and were baking in the long lines. OUCH!
We got the heck out of Fantasyland as fast as we could, and beat feet to Space Mountain. If you read my last report, you may remember that we got no Space love last trip. It was 101 every time we went to try to ride it. So, we were excited to get to ride it. Well, most of us were. Peter, Jack, and myself were pumped to check off that third Mountain of the MK Mountain Trifecta. Crashdad has really wanted to ride it, ever since he was a kid. But yes, there was a little fear there. It was time to slay another dragon. Since Belle wanted no part of Space Mountain, (after her bad experience on RnR last trip) we decided to do child swap. I rode first with the boys, while Crash waited with Belle. Then Crash rode and we waited for him, where they had him wait for us. He was all grins, when he got off the ride. Yay, another dragon slain!
Peter liked Space, but I wasnt so sure that he would ride it again. But he just informed me that he cant wait to ride it again. I gave my little guy a big high-five, and a little cabbage patching for completing the Triple Mountain Trifecta!!! I think that Belle was a little jealous that she didnt ride Big Thunder.
After goofing and cooling off in the dump shop, we headed back toward the Easy Bake Oven to use those Peter Pan fastpasses. We had to wait under the light bulb for a couple minutes until our fastpass return time came. There were some Dads in line waiting to use their Im-really-more-important-than-you-fastpasses and they were not happy that they had to wait a few minutes like the rest of us. Yeah that Easy Bake light bulb has some undesirable effects upon people. Soon enough, we were riding our flying pirate ship over London and waving to the Lost Boys. Peter was grinning from ear to ear.
We bid farewell to Fantasyland and pointed ourselves down Main St. to the exit for a much needed break from the crowds and heat. We would return later when the rest of the crowds were baked and gone for the day. Soon we were on a bus headed back to the Boardwalk.
Yep, a rest was in order.
Sometimes when you watch your kids sleeping, I swear its almost like you can see into their souls. You can almost see everything they have been, all that they are, and all that they may one day become. It happens to me almost every time I see Peters scars from his surgery. I swear that I can still see him lying in that isolette, and then so small in that hospital crib, with tubes and wires extruding from every inch of his body. Then in a blink of an eye, I can see him running around making me dizzy; and then again, grown and strong and every bit the good guy that I know he is growing up to become, much like his Daddy. Crash is one of the good guys, and he loves his family deeply. We ARE his Laughing Place, and he is ours as well.
Soon we were back to the room, and I was serving up simple grilled cheese sammies from the kitchen. We snacked on them on the balcony and relaxed. Soon the Easy Bake Oven was nothing but a faint memory. Loved, loved, loved, having the kitchen and the washer and dryer on this trip! It just made things so much easier, from the packing to the snacking. I loved not having to tote home a bunch of stinky clothes to wash. I think there was a short nap of some sorts as well. Then we headed downstairs for some more time with the clown pool.
Refreshed and relaxed, we eventually headed back to MK to take in Wishes and Spectromagic. We arrived on Main St. and decided to quench a Caseys craving. So, we scrounged around for a table and chairs (people were already snatching them up to watch Wishes) and shared a couple of Casey dogs, fries, and drinks. It was a nice snack, and quenched that Caseys craving.
We decided to head over to Fantasyland again to take in Philharmagic. Wow, Fantasyland is soooo much nicer without that Easy Bake Florida sun. Philharmagic is a favorite, and it was great as usual! What happened next, was not so great. As we got up to leave, I did my usual, sweep of the aisle to make sure everyone has everything. Guess what was missing again, even? Yep, the backpack. MY backpack, that had oh just my life in it: camera, cell phone, a little bit of money, etc The rest I could have cared less about, but really needed that camera and cell phone. So, we needed to hoof it back to Caseys as that is where it must have been left.
There was a problem with this plan. The first Spectromagic parade of the night was in progress and we were on the wrong side of Main Street. We squeezed our way through the maddening crowds of the castle hub area to get across Main, ASAP. The parade was just ending, thankfully, but that only made the crowds of humanity swell in all directions. Mercifully, we finally managed to cross Main St. Seriously, nothing but my camera and cell phone would force me to endure that torture. We entered Caseys only to find that the backpack was not where we left it. Oh joy So, I headed to the counter to ask about it. Eventually, I got a cast member to comprehend what I was saying, Yes, it is a blue backpack.. blue, yes thank you. Someone disappeared in the back, someone else came back out and reaffirmed, Yes, it is blue. This someone disappeared again and told me that they did not have it, and to check with City Hall. Oh great.
At this point, I left the family so that they could go grab our usual spot for Wishes, and headed down Main St USA toward City Hall. They were concerned that I would not find them later, since I did not have my cell phone. I told them to go to our usual place to watch, and if I didnt get my backpack, I would at least still be able to find them in that general vicinity. I headed to City Hall, dreading the worst, and hoping for the best. I got there and blurted out something like, I have lost my backpack and it had my whole life in it. The cast member asked me to describe it and where I lost it, etc I told her it was a blue DVC backpack, with a vinyl flap with the DVC logo. She asked me if it was canvas? I told her no, it was navy blue twill, with a leather/vinyl flap. She nodded, and headed back through some doors. Moments later, she arrived holding my life. Everything was still there, even the small amount of cash, and there was an inventory of sorts pinned to it that listed its contents. I was elated, and thanked the cast member.
I headed back up Main St. to meet up with the crew for Wishes! Later, it was decided that the reason that we kept losing the backpack, was because we kept trading it back and forth between us for various reasons. Therefore, since neither of us was used to holding it all the time, we were losing it. So, Crash remained the backpack bearer for the duration of the trip, and we didnt lose it again.
Soon Wishes started, and Tinkerbell flew from the castle. Jack shot the following footage, which I love. Its not so much for the fireworks themselves, but the ending where my big, grown, cell-phone-talking-facial-hair-donning man shows that there is still a part of him that will forever be my Kiss-Me-Darling little boy.
Wishes 6/9/2008
Think hell ever forgive me for posting that? Hee! Yeah, he will.
Anyhow, with Wishes over, we turned and headed to the corner of Main St to find some curb for the second Spectromagic Parade. It wasnt easy, but we did manage to find some unoccupied street. So, we sat down and watched the mass exodus of people leaving after Wishes. It was actually a bit sad. We watched people just trudge along and throw down their trash all over the street. Seriously people, there are trash cans every few feet. Use one, will ya?
We watched them clean up the street to prepare for the parade, and in no time at all it started. Here are some pics:
And here is some video!
Spectromagic 6/9/2008 Part 1
Spectromagic 6/9/2008 part 2
After Spectro, we decided to linger for a while. We headed toward the shops on the opposite side of Main St than we normally do, so that we could see some new things. We looked at glass slippers, Lenox wares, jewelry, and even swords. We stopped to buy a gift for GAKitty, which the kids picked out for her. This is also where I found another really great ice-cold AC vent. Right smack-dab in front of where the glass blower/iron mongers forge was setup. Having prolonged the evening as long as we could, we headed for the busses. Soon, we were back in our home away from home.
NAB
<font color=green>That first page just got too hea
- Joined
- May 31, 2006
- Messages
- 14,918
Yay for trying rides for the first time.
Peter's breakfast is my favourite. Mickey waffles...yummy.
That is a great way of describing the heat of Fanastyland. Easy Bake oven and a the light bulb.
So glad to here you found your backpack, but it is so easy to do.
Love picture of the kids on the bus. Angels indeed. Still can't get over how grown you oldest looks. He looks like a great big brother. Videos are so cool too .
Peter's breakfast is my favourite. Mickey waffles...yummy.
That is a great way of describing the heat of Fanastyland. Easy Bake oven and a the light bulb.
So glad to here you found your backpack, but it is so easy to do.
Love picture of the kids on the bus. Angels indeed. Still can't get over how grown you oldest looks. He looks like a great big brother. Videos are so cool too .
Backstage_Gal
<font color=darkorchid>Let me rephrase the dog ste
- Joined
- Apr 8, 2005
- Messages
- 11,536
Great update, Steph! Loved the videps and so cool to have Jack on the soundtrack! Yay for finding your backpack, whew!
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