We've Bounced Back like Tigger SB09 TR NEW 9/11 CLOSING TIME....

[ladybugmom]

Hi Julie!! I'm FINALLY caught up!! I read the entire 39 pages of your PTR & TR and I'm LOVING it! I can totally relate to your organization and planning and your family is just precious! I can't wait to read more!!

 

[mousescrapper]

I can't wait to hear about your day 6.

1st part coming soon....

Hi Julie!! I'm FINALLY caught up!! I read the entire 39 pages of your PTR & TR and I'm LOVING it! I can totally relate to your organization and planning and your family is just precious! I can't wait to read more!!

Hi Becky....



I can't believe you read thru the whole thing...you are awesome

 

[mousescrapper]

Day 6) Tuesday, March 31 Animal Kingdom


After a long day of shopping, a crazy bus drive, touring of MK, and an extra hour of fun, including Spectromagic we needed a good rest of sleep!

The possible plan was to sleep in this morning and head over to AK in the late morning. So here is a quick recap of our day's PLAN:

*sleep in

*Breakfast at Pepper Market (CS credits)

*Arrive at AK by 11:00 am

*Tour till park closing at 6:00 pm

*Pool at night back at CSR or go mini golfing at WinterSummerland or possibly both



We did sleep in and all starting getting out of bed sometime after 8 am, as everyone was getting ready to head out for breakfast (we went in shifts of 2 again) I (can you guess) organized a ton of stuff in our suitcases/bags in preparation for our departure on Thursday

We had a nice hot breakfast at the PM, it was hardly crowded at all which is always nice. Matt and I had one of the scrambled plate specials: eggs, potatoes, and a side of meat I had bacon and he had sausage. It was just OK. I don't have notes of what everyone else ate, but the kids probably had a combo of waffles and pancakes, I'm guessing Michael may have had scrambled eggs too.

We took a quick pit stop back at the room (why? I don't know why since we were just right by the bus stop after eating...)

Waiting at the bus stop at CSR

According to my notes I think we did arrive at AK right around 11:00 am. We were on target w/ the plan, but not w/ touring....

there were a ton of PEOPLE still arriving at AK and the park was equally packed and to top it off we realized we forgot Michael's sound canceling headphones...UGH!

I can remember back to some of my original planning and was thinking of burning the candle at both ends at arrive at AK at opening even w/ the late night at MK the night before, (kinda like Heidi said too) but then later I (we) changed my (our) mind(s), feeling we really needed an easy going morning...and then pretty much right at the start of this day, I realized I made a critical WDW rookie mistake!

Onward safari troop..though the wild we must trek!

Before entering the park we stopped to get our “trip” picture of the kids in front of the AK welcome sign:

It didn't turn out great, but at least it will show how big the kids were then. (Michael is not crying the sun was bugging his eyes)

As we emerged from the Oasis and the amazing ToL

was looming in front of us I got everyone to stop so we could get a couple Photopass pictures taken:

Look who joined us for this picture!


as we were all posing, I over heard one guest comment “oh look how cute, they all match in green” Pretty cool to me!

But then later as I was looking thru the PP pictures I noticed this:

Now come on people, or should a say RUDE DUDE! That is just so low ball....why would you do that? Seriously!!?? Lucky enough it was not one of the best pictures, but still very annoying!

I had to adjust our TP quite a bit right off the bat. Originally I wanted to:

Split up for EE, kids and Matt look around, find maybe a Kid Discovery Club area or characters

KS

FoW

Matt-Dinosaur

rest-Boneyard

Dine Restaurantosaurus

Tree of Life

Parade at 3:45 pm

Pangani Trail

Maharaja Trek

Camp M& M to meet characters

FotLK
CS if time allowed


So the big question is how many of those things did we do...

but we headed over to KS first...but as long as you didn't mind the 1000 + other people completely smashed together around you, and squeeze up to the entrance which probably would take just as long as the ride...you are all set....

It was such a huge back-up, I figured it was just nutty for us to all squeeze through there, and I also thought the standby would be too long for Michael, so I knew the GAC would be our best option here, but w/ our lack of luck using it for all “8” of us yesterday at LF, I decided to get 2 FP's for my parents on 2 of the kids tickets that way we could get FP's right away for them and myself for EE.

So I weeded my way all the way through the massive crowd to the right line to get in line to retrieve two stinking (sorry) FP's...which to my major annoyance later upon our return and going through the FP line a few hours later at the ticket check where you're suppose to give the CM your FP's...we get to this very cranky old grump of a CM Mr. Grumpy for sure...and I'm first in our group and show the GAC and very politely say “this is for the 6 of us” and point behind me...he grunts and brushed us off, like we were such a huge hindrance to him and he didn't even look at my parents' FP's


Ok I know it was HOT & Crowded, but hey we did our part, he should do the same...after all that, we didn't even need those FP's it felt like...blah!

So anyways, back to me before my timeline tangent, I got the FP's and weeded my way back through the crowd to find my family and they had found some musical instruments to play:

so the best part of that icky ordeal was this:

isn't that just a great shot of her..me thinks


after the kids got into the Jungle groove fr a little bit longer, oh and guess who DH got a glimpse out of his eye while they were waiting for me to come back and who had the camera (me) but DeVine...oh well.

I decided next we had better go and get those FP's for EE next, so that is where we headed ...but we got a bit turned around

Help we are lost in Asia!​

Here are some pictures DH took along our trek:

We made our way finally over to EE and on our way stopped at some ice cream cart to get some water (I think) but the cart wasn't open yet. The CM said Aldine could radio in the opening on the walkie talkie and then help serve the first order..so we thought what the hey..it would only take a few minutes...it actually took longer due to some technical glitch, but they finally got it all together and she enjoyed her little magical moment.

Cont: next post...

 

[mousescrapper]

I got the 3 FP's for a returning time after our time for KS, so it would work out well. Next we headed over to Dinoland and I took the kids in the Boneyard while my Mom rested and Matt and my Dad went to go do Dinosaur, the standby was longer than my Dad wanted to stand in so he ended up coming back and hanged out w/ me and the kids.


The kids had such a great time playing and climbing and hanging out. I had never been in here w/ the kids so it was a bit of a treat for me. Though at the same time a little stressful trying to track all 4..basically keeping the younger 2 w/ me but an eye on Michael and Aldine. I'm always worried some little thing could tip Michael the wrong way and he could freak out and say something totally not cool for a 9 yr old boy to say to another kid...Like Hey...grrrr or Don't touch me...etc.

One of the hardest parts of Aspergers is social ignorance, where you [the Aspie child] can't always gage whether a look or small bump doesn't warrant WWII.

But luckily no issues were had and in the end, when my Dad came in I was able to have him play w/ Mae in the digging area (Margaret didn't like the little pebbles on her feet and they get in your Crocs and she didn't understand how you had to keep your shoes on. And I had an easier time watching just 3.

Here area few great pictures of the kids having some dino-tastic fun!

I can do it myself!

It worked out that we were heading out just as Matt was walking up as he got off Dinosaur. We walked back over to where my Mom was waiting on a bench in the shade, which happened to be near a DVC info stand. We happen to start up a conversation w/ one of the CM's who was from the Chicago subs like us as the kids pin traded and that led too........


Up NEXT: how many things did we do at AK and........well you'll just have to come back and read!


Thanks for reading as always,

Scrappie (J-)

 

[DisneyMomLiz]

Up NEXT: how many things did we do at AK and........well you'll just have to come back and read!

A cliffhanger?!? Ok in hand looking forward to the next update.

Sounds like everyone is having a great day in AK so far. I may have to check out the Boneyard this year with DS...never have made it there in past trips. But will I ever get him out?!?!

 

[mousescrapper]

A cliffhanger?!? Ok in hand looking forward to the next update.

Sounds like everyone is having a great day in AK so far. I may have to check out the Boneyard this year with DS...never have made it there in past trips. But will I ever get him out?!?!

Hi Liz

the boneyard is alot of fun, Margaret then 2 1/2 just loved the little slide area w/ her older siblings as you can see. Just set a limit of time ahead of time to keep everyone on track. I say a 1/2 to 45 minutes is a good time frame.

Your trip is coming fast...do you have free dining?

 

[PracPerfPatricia]

I love your AKL photos-I know it isn't a lot of people's favorite park but I just think it's lovely and so beautifully themed...

BTW-it is kind of creepy not to mention immature that someone felt the need to put their hand in your photo-really sad for them if that's how they get their kicks but you have a lot of really awesome ones anyway...

 

[MEK]

I just found your TR and I've only read the first and last couple of pages, but I really like it. Your kids are so cute and it sounds like you had a wonderful time. And the DVC Kiosk...... I bet I know what that means? I also love the picture of the boat at the AK. I want to steal it for my TR!

 

[MRYPPNS]

AK at 11am huh?
I hope I don't jinx it but Michael seems to be doing well in AK without his headphones . Love the picture of Mae.

 

[ladybugmom]

Oh wow!! GREAT AK pics!! The Boneyard looks really cool!! Your kids look like they are really enjoying themselves! So you were talking to a CM at the DVC info stand, huh?! Wondering if this leads to anything. . . Can't wait to read more!!

 

[mousescrapper]

I love your AKL photos-I know it isn't a lot of people's favorite park but I just think it's lovely and so beautifully themed...

Hi again!


BTW-it is kind of creepy not to mention immature that someone felt the need to put their hand in your photo-really sad for them if that's how they get their kicks but you have a lot of really awesome ones anyway...

tell me about it....

I would have been if it was a favorite shot...

I just found your TR and I've only read the first and last couple of pages, but I really like it. Your kids are so cute and it sounds like you had a wonderful time. And the DVC Kiosk...... I bet I know what that means? I also love the picture of the boat at the AK. I want to steal it for my TR!

Well hi and

thanks for taking a peak and glad you said hi too! We really have been having a wonderful trip this yr...so many cool new things and that's what I love about Disney! feel free to "steal away" no copyright infringements here...I used w/ permission of course a picture from someones TR in a scrapbook of mine

AK at 11am huh?

I know I know... next time listen to Ms. Poppins!

I hope I don't jinx it but Michael seems to be doing well in AK without his headphones .

for the most part yes...Whew!

Love the picture of Mae.

Thanks me too...those PP guys did fine by me this yr!

Oh wow!! GREAT AK pics!! The Boneyard looks really cool!! Your kids look like they are really enjoying themselves! So you were talking to a CM at the DVC info stand, huh?! Wondering if this leads to anything. . . Can't wait to read more!!

Hi Becky...

Thanks for the picture compliment that means alot coming from you the ultimate WDW picture Queen...seriously!

They had a ton of fun in the BY this time and Mom too.

The DVC story is to be coming soon....

 

[KathyRN137]

I'm always worried some little thing could tip Michael the wrong way and he could freak out and say something totally not cool for a 9 yr old boy to say to another kid...Like Hey...grrrr or Don't touch me...etc.

One of the hardest parts of Aspergers is social ignorance, where you [the Aspie child] can't always gage whether a look or small bump doesn't warrant WWII.

I just love this action shot of the three siblings... they look like they're having so much fun and really enjoying each other!

I know exactly what you mean with the social confusion. It's sooo hard to explain to other children... not to mention some adults!

Billy was swimming the other day and scared the wits out of a 7 or 8 year old boy who was splashing nearby. Billy got mad and started yelling, "Knock it off! No splashing!!" He's pretty big and the younger boy thought he was going to hit him!

So did the boy's mother.

I had some 'splainin' to do.

Just another adventure...

Kathy

 

[mousescrapper]

Hi Kathy

I just love this action shot of the three siblings... they look like they're having so much fun and really enjoying each other!

Yes it is one of my favorite pictures too

I know exactly what you mean with the social confusion. It's sooo hard to explain to other children... not to mention some adults!

Billy was swimming the other day and scared the wits out of a 7 or 8 year old boy who was splashing nearby. Billy got mad and started yelling, "Knock it off! No splashing!!" He's pretty big and the younger boy thought he was going to hit him!

So did the boy's mother.

I had some 'splainin' to do.

Just another adventure...

Kathy

Yes not too long ago, the Harry Potter thing....

well he was a bit self conscious about wearing his robe to the muesum even though I reassured him no one would make fun of him....but as he was putting it on in the parking lot, some boy looked at him and he yells out
What are you looking at!"

there have been other occassions too, sometimes I wonder if I should have some of those Autism awarness cards in my pocket like DisMomAmy...

 

[lisalonglash]

Great updates, J! I love all the pictures - my fave is definitely the one with the twins and Margaret I know what you mean about just waiting for a possible problem to develop; Tigger has said/done things like that

I'm afraid to let my boys even KNOW about each park's playgrounds - we'd never get anything else done

 

[mousescrapper]

Hi Lisa!

Great updates, J! I love all the pictures - my fave is definitely the one with the twins and Margaret

thank you and thank you...

I know what you mean about just waiting for a possible problem to develop; Tigger has said/done things like that

good to know we are not alone....

I'm afraid to let my boys even KNOW about each park's playgrounds - we'd never get anything else done

Yes they have their advantages...but draw backs too...we've used the BY pretty much every trip as the thrill ride waiting place...as I like EE DH doesn't and he likes Dinosaur and I don't...so for that reason alone...let's go play!

 

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey Julie,

I just went back in your thread and took the link over to your page describing the book you made for Michael and I am in awe...

I may make a simpler version for David for next month-my time is running...he would love the visual of seeing what is coming up next and I need to get him used to using lists-he needs to start to get himself ready for school in the fall-without constant nudging he'd be reading in his room or playing legos...

I have come to the conclusion that David has AS...(I have 3 different opinions-one yes, one maybe and one I don't think Asperger's is a real diagnosis...)

It's been difficult getting a diagnosis nailed down for him because he isn't "clearly" Aspie-sometimes, usually when he's with his family-he just seems like a precocious little guy (he's very smart)...he is usually very optimistic and flexible...but he is very distractable (daydreamy), very literal-although he has a great sense of humor

(I thought he might have ADD-but it isn't that...), he doesn't have a lot of sensory issues-oddly other than a sensitivity to strong smell-probably his two biggest challenges are anxiety-not about things like rides-lol-he'll ride anything he is allowed on but when he isn't sure what's happening he gets panicky and socially-he is friendly and social but sometimes doesn't pick up the subtle social cues...(ie. he gets too close, he can be too honest, etc.) These issues come forth much more at school when he isn't with us...

He's needed OT for handwriting and we've sent him for social skills classes.

When I think about it-I think my dad had/had Asperger's too...

Anyway sorry for the ramble-I'm just trying to get it all straight in my head and want to do the very best things for him...

(Ironically I was already training for Advocacy before this came up-but its actually just made it all the more poignant for me...)

 

[mousescrapper]

Hey Julie,

I just went back in your thread and took the link over to your page describing the book you made for Michael and I am in awe...

I may make a simpler version for David for next month-my time is running...he would love the visual of seeing what is coming up next and I need to get him used to using lists-he needs to start to get himself ready for school in the fall-without constant nudging he'd be reading in his room or playing legos...

I have come to the conclusion that David has AS...(I have 3 different opinions-one yes, one maybe and one I don't think Asperger's is a real diagnosis...)

It's been difficult getting a diagnosis nailed down for him because he isn't "clearly" Aspie-sometimes, usually when he's with his family-he just seems like a precocious little guy (he's very smart)...he is usually very optimistic and flexible...but he is very distractable (daydreamy), very literal-although he has a great sense of humor

(I thought he might have ADD-but it isn't that...), he doesn't have a lot of sensory issues-oddly other than a sensitivity to strong smell-probably his two biggest challenges are anxiety-not about things like rides-lol-he'll ride anything he is allowed on but when he isn't sure what's happening he gets panicky and socially-he is friendly and social but sometimes doesn't pick up the subtle social cues...(ie. he gets too close, he can be too honest, etc.) These issues come forth much more at school when he isn't with us...

He's needed OT for handwriting and we've sent him for social skills classes.

When I think about it-I think my dad had/had Asperger's too...

Anyway sorry for the ramble-I'm just trying to get it all straight in my head and want to do the very best things for him...

(Ironically I was already training for Advocacy before this came up-but its actually just made it all the more poignant for me...)

HI!

thanks for sharing and you are too sweet about Michael's books....

feel free to pm for anyhelp or to talk more about your son David...I am no expert, but I find talking w/ other Mom's especially here on the boards (ironicaly enough) is a huge support. Before Michael was diagnosed...I didn't even know what Autism was let alone Aspergers....and yes for us too, most of his "issues" were mainly at school, but then we began to see this downward spirl and how it was effecting him and home and beyond.

It's hard to have this "label" but it has been a blessing...we have a wonderful set of doctors for him and now instead of fumbeling thru the darkness in this big puzzle we can search our way thru w/ a better understanding and the right tools...

Blessings to you and your family as you seek the best and right ways to make David's life happy and productive for him and you

I'm going top pop over to your TR and take a peek soon

thanks for reading mine

J-

 

[mousescrapper]

Hi all....

before I get back to AK and Day 6)....

Today is my 13th Wedding Anni w/ my wonderful DH Matt

we actually celebrated yesterday, w/ going out to eat at a Mongolian Stir fry place w/ some old g/c we had found and then walked around the Naperville (suburb of Chi-town) River Walk area

before we headed over there and my Mom came over to watch the kids we had a little Family Croquet game...it was FUN! DH won! Michael came in 2nd and I made a triumph come back from last place to place 3rd

This day was a bit of a Blast to the Past for DH & I....

we used to play croquet all the time when we were first dating and newlyweds w/ our freinds at my parents home. My Dad was cleaning up his garage when he came across our old set and brought it too us. Plus the Riverwalk, was another place we frequented alot back in the day...we don't think we had been there since 1999 before the twins were born. Have no idea why, but we had a great afternoon and evening!

Plus my Mom gave Matt & I a card w/ 2 Borders (bookstore) g/c's in it and we stopped there on our way home and I got:

The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World by Susan Veness co 2009

and

Today in History Disney by Eve Zibart co 2006 A daily dose of Disney Magic for every fan & fanatic!

today July 20th

(1941) "At the Hollywood premiere of The Reluctant Dragon, Disney's first part-live action, part-animation feture, a riot broke out. It began as a protest by studio animators who, egged on by labor negotiators, had already taken to the picket lines; with all the publicity, the strikers became unruly.
Though it did not recoup its $600,000 costs, The Reluctant Dragon has some great moments, such as film of Ward Kimball animating Goofy. That is a clue to the times, since Goofy was primarily the creation of Art Babbitt. Yet Babbitt was on the strike's front lines, and Walt would never forgive him."

"DISNEY QUIZ: Who founded the Walt Disney Archives and is author of Disney A to Z: The Official Encyclopedia?"

Scrappie

 

[jmamom]

Happy Anniversary!!!!!! Can't wait to hear if you like the Hidden Magic book, I saw that and almost bought it.

 

[mousescrapper]

Happy Anniversary!!!!!! Can't wait to hear if you like the Hidden Magic book, I saw that and almost bought it.

thanks!

and I will, starting reading the foward last night...but I'm trying to finish re-reading Yr 6 of Harry Potter before we go see the movie next Monday....

then I will for sure dive in!