Well imagine my surprise!June 2009 PTRw/pics 7/7 pg. 76 NEW TR started link on pg. 76

[IluvXU]

Over the weekend, we have been coming up with a list of things that we definitely want to experience at Disney this trip (I will post those later) BUT we have a list of things that we are on the fence about and were hoping for some advice/guidance from our loyal readers....

1.Block Party Bash at DHS? Is this parade worth staying in the HOT June heat to see?

2.Character spot in Epcot...with all the character meals we have planned, is this necessary?

3. Country Bear Jamboree...the boys have never seen this, Bryan and I have but it has been years? Will the boys like it?

The boys have been begging us for our last 3 trips to do the sea raycers/water mice. Can Bryan and both boys go together? Are they fun? The boys love fishing from a boat but are they even tall enough to see out and really experience it?

Thanks to all of you for your help!

Last but not least, I am sooooo excited, Bryan finally ordered a new computer and it should be here within the week!!

1.I am doubtful we will see the block party bash... my kids are not pixar crazy.... and the heat is brutal. (we did watch the old Stars and Cars from a shaded spot and loved it however).

2. The character connection has been great for us when we hit it quick in the morning. Just see who you are missing and what pics you have and go from there. I like the background and lack of food and plates in the pics too... plus the photopass option - are you getting one/doing a share? Let me know cause we could do one if you want to maybe.

3. I thought the country bears were painful to watch last summer, however Hannah liked them. Your boys are older... but this could be the last time they might like it and it is a cool break from the heat.

Enjoy the new computer... and I know nothing about the water mice... sorry!

 

[disneyhockeymad]

Over the weekend, we have been coming up with a list of things that we definitely want to experience at Disney this trip (I will post those later) BUT we have a list of things that we are on the fence about and were hoping for some advice/guidance from our loyal readers....

1.Block Party Bash at DHS? Is this parade worth staying in the HOT June heat to see?

2.Character spot in Epcot...with all the character meals we have planned, is this necessary?

3. Country Bear Jamboree...the boys have never seen this, Bryan and I have but it has been years? Will the boys like it?

The boys have been begging us for our last 3 trips to do the sea raycers/water mice. Can Bryan and both boys go together? Are they fun? The boys love fishing from a boat but are they even tall enough to see out and really experience it?

Thanks to all of you for your help!

Last but not least, I am sooooo excited, Bryan finally ordered a new computer and it should be here within the week!!

The only one I can really help with is the first one... we watched BPB in the June heat when we went and I got so burnt it was unfunny! It was an awesome parade but definately to be watched with plenty of water and a shady spot... but they go very quickly... as it goes on for a very long time as it takes a while for it to get to you, and then with the various stops for it to all get passed you!!! But definately worth it though!!

 

[Trentmom]

We only saw a few mins of Block Party Bash. It was neat, but in the June heat, I don't think I would watch it unless I could find a super shady spot and everyone has a bottle of water.

I have not seen Country Bear Jamboree since the 90s, so not much help on that. But like another poster said, be a good way to take a nice air conditioned break


Never done the CHaracter connection at Epcot, but have seen people's pic. There background are so colorful. They make for great pics!!

We did the water mice on our honeymoon. While it was fun, it was tiring.



woo hoo on the new computer

 

[lmillercrew]

While the Country Bear Jamboree is cheesy, it's cute. It's been around a while, so to me it's a Disney World classic. It's a nice place to go when it's hot. Just sit inside, cool off and enjoy a cute show.
We've done Character Connection too. But, you are right when you say that you are doing a lot of meals and you'll probably see the same characters at your meal. I think that you can poke your head in and see who's in there. It's air conditioned, so it's cool too.

 

[carissanboys]

Well, we're not big parade people and we're usually leaving the park at the time. But, I think this year we might try and hit one or two.

We haven't seen the Country Bear show and from what I've heard, we aren't missing anything.

We've never done the Character Connection at Epcot and I don't think we will this time around either. We'll be seeing Mickey and Donald and friends enough at our character meals - much easier than standing in line.

I thought only two people could ride on those things at a time, but I'm not sure.

 

[OhMari]

Well, we're not big parade people and we're usually leaving the park at the time. But, I think this year we might try and hit one or two.

We haven't seen the Country Bear show and from what I've heard, we aren't missing anything.It's worth doing if you need a 10 minute power nap.

We've never done the Character Connection at Epcot and I don't think we will this time around either. We'll be seeing Mickey and Donald and friends enough at our character meals - much easier than standing in line.I saw the lines in November and they were huge, and Epcot was empty that day. When Character Connection was in it's old spot, no one knew where it was, so you could get your pictures taken fairly fast, but not anymore. Character Connection is betwen Soarin and Test Track and lots of people stop and get in line. Don't wait around, it isn't worth it.

I thought only two people could ride on this things at a time, but I'm not sure.

Finally got to the pre-trip boards. I see you switched to BWV. You can still eat at Boma's. Plan a day when the MK open early. Take the bus to the MK and then a bus to the Animal Kingdom.
M.

 

[kaysmommie]

Over the weekend, we have been coming up with a list of things that we definitely want to experience at Disney this trip (I will post those later) BUT we have a list of things that we are on the fence about and were hoping for some advice/guidance from our loyal readers....

1.Block Party Bash at DHS? Is this parade worth staying in the HOT June heat to see?

2.Character spot in Epcot...with all the character meals we have planned, is this necessary?

3. Country Bear Jamboree...the boys have never seen this, Bryan and I have but it has been years? Will the boys like it?

The boys have been begging us for our last 3 trips to do the sea raycers/water mice. Can Bryan and both boys go together? Are they fun? The boys love fishing from a boat but are they even tall enough to see out and really experience it?

Thanks to all of you for your help!


Last but not least, I am sooooo excited, Bryan finally ordered a new computer and it should be here within the week!!

Block Party Bash we missed it so I can't give and honest opinion on that. Character Spot would not be a must do unless the kids want to see the characters that are there again. I guess if you could fit both of those in your schedule then I would. Country bears is pretty lame, Kaylee liked it wehn she was 2.5 but DH and I were since it was so bad. But who knows somebody must like it. Sea racyers fit 2 people in them so looks like you will be going to. I would definately add this to the list the boys will probably love it! Congrats on the new computer.

I need your opinion on build your own Light Saber in DTD. Thomas wants to buy one so I thought we might make time to go there and let him make his own. Do you think it will be easy for a just turned 5 year old? Also do you happen to know the price? I also thought about the store when you exit Star Tours, do you they have ones you can buy there? Wondering what else they sell there because I can't remember. Thomas doesn't care if he builds it himself he just wants a light saber. Thanks, thought you were the one to ask about this stuff .

 

[Chris]

YIPEE! I just finished your pre trip report! You're an amazing writer!!!

the only things I can help with would be the Country Bears, we went in August and it was still as cheesy as it was 15 years ago! LOL!!!
The Sea Racers has 2 people per boat so have fun!!

Can't wait to hear if you got all your reservations! Sounds awesome!!!

 

[dddisrunner]

1.I am doubtful we will see the block party bash... my kids are not pixar crazy.... and the heat is brutal. (we did watch the old Stars and Cars from a shaded spot and loved it however).

2. The character connection has been great for us when we hit it quick in the morning. Just see who you are missing and what pics you have and go from there. I like the background and lack of food and plates in the pics too... plus the photopass option - are you getting one/doing a share? Let me know cause we could do one if you want to maybe.

3. I thought the country bears were painful to watch last summer, however Hannah liked them. Your boys are older... but this could be the last time they might like it and it is a cool break from the heat.

Enjoy the new computer... and I know nothing about the water mice... sorry!

Thanks Laura! I am super excited about the new computer! I think we will "try" to catch Block Party Bash being there for 2 weeks, we should be able to fit it in! Thanks for all the other advice too

The only one I can really help with is the first one... we watched BPB in the June heat when we went and I got so burnt it was unfunny! It was an awesome parade but definately to be watched with plenty of water and a shady spot... but they go very quickly... as it goes on for a very long time as it takes a while for it to get to you, and then with the various stops for it to all get passed you!!! But definately worth it though!!

Thanks for the heads up!

We only saw a few mins of Block Party Bash. It was neat, but in the June heat, I don't think I would watch it unless I could find a super shady spot and everyone has a bottle of water.

I have not seen Country Bear Jamboree since the 90s, so not much help on that. But like another poster said, be a good way to take a nice air conditioned break


Never done the CHaracter connection at Epcot, but have seen people's pic. There background are so colorful. They make for great pics!!

We did the water mice on our honeymoon. While it was fun, it was tiring.



woo hoo on the new computer

Thanks Kelly! We might do the water mice on our day off at DTD! The boys REALLY want to!

While the Country Bear Jamboree is cheesy, it's cute. It's been around a while, so to me it's a Disney World classic. It's a nice place to go when it's hot. Just sit inside, cool off and enjoy a cute show.
We've done Character Connection too. But, you are right when you say that you are doing a lot of meals and you'll probably see the same characters at your meal. I think that you can poke your head in and see who's in there. It's air conditioned, so it's cool too.

I guess we will play the charater connection by ear! Thanks for the tips!

Well, we're not big parade people and we're usually leaving the park at the time. But, I think this year we might try and hit one or two.

We haven't seen the Country Bear show and from what I've heard, we aren't missing anything.

We've never done the Character Connection at Epcot and I don't think we will this time around either. We'll be seeing Mickey and Donald and friends enough at our character meals - much easier than standing in line.

I thought only two people could ride on this things at a time, but I'm not sure.

I think you are right Carissa, now that I have done a little more research, only 2 per boat!

Finally got to the pre-trip boards. I see you switched to BWV. You can still eat at Boma's. Plan a day when the MK open early. Take the bus to the MK and then a bus to the Animal Kingdom.
M.

Welcome!!! Thanks so much for all your help and advice!

Block Party Bash we missed it so I can't give and honest opinion on that. Character Spot would not be a must do unless the kids want to see the characters that are there again. I guess if you could fit both of those in your schedule then I would. Country bears is pretty lame, Kaylee liked it wehn she was 2.5 but DH and I were since it was so bad. But who knows somebody must like it. Sea racyers fit 2 people in them so looks like you will be going to. I would definately add this to the list the boys will probably love it! Congrats on the new computer.

I need your opinion on build your own Light Saber in DTD. Thomas wants to buy one so I thought we might make time to go there and let him make his own. Do you think it will be easy for a just turned 5 year old? Also do you happen to know the price? I also thought about the store when you exit Star Tours, do you they have ones you can buy there? Wondering what else they sell there because I can't remember. Thomas doesn't care if he builds it himself he just wants a light saber. Thanks, thought you were the one to ask about this stuff .

Hey Nichole! Glad to see back here! Thanks about the computer! I definitely think you should let Thomas do build your own lightsaber. I think it is around $20-$25 but the people who work there are VERY helpful and Thomas will get to piock a sith or jedi pin at the end and it is included in the price. The store outside of Star Tours doesn't have Build your own lightsaber but they do sell the "Ultimate Light Saber" which is basically the same thing BUT it cost more in the shop then the build your own plus it isn't as much fun AND you get the pin! Since you will be at Saratoga, I would take the trip over to DTD and let him ake one especially because it is his birthday! Did you request anything at SSR?

YIPEE! I just finished your pre trip report! You're an amazing writer!!!

the only things I can help with would be the Country Bears, we went in August and it was still as cheesy as it was 15 years ago! LOL!!!
The Sea Racers has 2 people per boat so have fun!!

Can't wait to hear if you got all your reservations! Sounds awesome!!!

WOW! Welcome and thank you sooo much for your very sweet compliments!! Thanks for the info on the water mice too! I get to call on March 23rd for our dining sooo stay tuned!!

 

[dddisrunner]

I just saw this on another thread! Very interesting if it is true! I guess this way people will need to be sure to show up for there ADR'S have a look! What do you think? It is NOT confirmed yet BUT it looks to be possible!

http://www.wdwanswerguide.com/News/WDWNewsletter.html


I can't imagine all the time it would take to give the credit card info after each seperate ressie...especially when making 23 like we will be doing I think we would miss out on some ressies just for the sheer amount of time it would take up to repeat that info over and over!

 

[Charleston Princess]

I just saw this on another thread! Very interesting if it is true! I guess this way people will need to be sure to show up for there ADR'S have a look! What do you think? It is NOT confirmed yet BUT it looks to be possible!

http://www.wdwanswerguide.com/News/WDWNewsletter.html


I can't imagine all the time it would take to give the credit card info after each seperate ressie...especially when making 23 like we will be doing I think we would miss out on some ressies just for the sheer amount of time it would take up to repeat that info over and over!

Wow! That would be a pain in the neck!!! I bet it would cut down on no-shows though!

 

[carissanboys]

I would really hope that isn't true. There have been a few times that we've had an ADR, but just weren't able to make it. As busy as the restaurants always are and as many people that walk up without an ADR, can they really be losing money??

What makes me nervous is the statement that charges could be incurred if not cancelled with sufficient time. What would constitute sufficient time? Sometimes we don't know until right before the meal that we won't be able to make it. But, if you don't make an ADR, then forget about getting in to a TS restaurant.

 

[dddisrunner]

Wow! That would be a pain in the neck!!! I bet it would cut down on no-shows though!

People really seem to be in favor of it. I think it is a good idea in theory BUT there are some logistical issues for sure. How much to charge? At what point are you considered a "no show" Can you call and say you are running late? Should be interesting to see what happens. Hopefully nothing until after March 23rd

I would really hope that isn't true. There have been a few times that we've had an ADR, but just weren't able to make it. As busy as the restaurants always are and as many people that walk up without an ADR, can they really be losing money??

What makes me nervous is the statement that charges could be incurred if not cancelled with sufficient time. What would constitute sufficient time? Sometimes we don't know until right before the meal that we won't be able to make it. But, if you don't make an ADR, then forget about getting in to a TS restaurant.

It will be interesting to see how this works out? Maybe they should start out with getting Credit Card holds for people staying off site first and see how that affects things? I think it might work better for peak times too such as Christmas, Easter , July 4th? Although they are already charging a premium rate just to eat at Disney during that time?

 

[CRSNDSNY]

Yeah, that will be a pain if a CC is required for all reservations. But I can only imagine how unruly no shows are for those managing the restaurants. I think this will open up a lot of tables around the World but also make counter service very very crowded.

I have mixed feelings about this!

I just saw this on another thread! Very interesting if it is true! I guess this way people will need to be sure to show up for there ADR'S have a look! What do you think? It is NOT confirmed yet BUT it looks to be possible!

http://www.wdwanswerguide.com/News/WDWNewsletter.html


I can't imagine all the time it would take to give the credit card info after each seperate ressie...especially when making 23 like we will be doing I think we would miss out on some ressies just for the sheer amount of time it would take up to repeat that info over and over!

 

[lmillercrew]

I don't mind the idea. It kinda makes sense because think of those who try to walk up and are turned away. Then, when there's a no show, the restaraunt loses money where it could've been made with the walk up. (I'm not sure I said that clearly, but you get the point)

 

[kaysmommie]

Thanks Diane on all the info on the light saber. Ithink if we have time well just go to DTD and make one there.

 

[dddisrunner]

Yeah, that will be a pain if a CC is required for all reservations. But I can only imagine how unruly no shows are for those managing the restaurants. I think this will open up a lot of tables around the World but also make counter service very very crowded.

I have mixed feelings about this!

It will be interesting to see how this all plays out!!

I don't mind the idea. It kinda makes sense because think of those who try to walk up and are turned away. Then, when there's a no show, the restaraunt loses money where it could've been made with the walk up. (I'm not sure I said that clearly, but you get the point)

I understood you!

Thanks Diane on all the info on the light saber. Ithink if we have time well just go to DTD and make one there.

No problem Nichole! Are you getting excited about SSR?

 

[tinkgurl]

HI! Just found your TR and thought you'd like to know we'll be getting to WDW June 22nd!

 

[kathleen27]

Hi Diane!

Haven't been able to get on the DIS much in Nov/ Dec so I'm just reading now.

Two weeks sounds great!

Lots of ADRs! Should be some great meals.

Poor Eric, I can imagine how upset he was about missing Star Wars weekends. I would have liked to go at the end of June next year for it. But if they keep those dates we will never be out of school in time. They should have made the announcement MUCH earlier. Doesn't Disney realize how far in advance we plan these trips.

I think you mentioned SW flights, I was on their site last night, and they are currently listing flights opening up on Jan 29 for travel thru mid August. The date is on the special offers page.

The boys look as cute as ever! Sounds like a fun Christmas.
How nice to get away to Atlantic City, and f&W sounds great too!

 

[NMAmy]

Holy cow! How did I miss the change to BWV??? I know you'll love the area, Diane. I'm so excited about trying the villas myself.

About the credit card thing--they've always done this for holidays. I remember having to use a credit card for the reservations for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day. We weren't on the dining plan, though. It seems odd that they'd require a cc for someone on the dining plan but I guess it would cut down on the overbooking.