Trip Report A Collection of Things that are No More: November 2011

Okay, so I am currently Disney deprived, and I am going bonkers!! Somebody send for help! I just recently came across my 2011 Disney World pictures; they were in a folder on my ancient computer that is about to blow up. Not kidding! I began clicking through them and started feeling nostalgic. The memories came flooding back, has it really been four years??? Along with my insane amount of photos and my OCD note-taking skills, I felt like I could relive this trip moment to moment. I thought to myself, what is a better way to save these photos and memories than on the internet in a trip report?? YOU FEEL ME??

In all honesty, I reallyyyyyyy want to have a new trip planned to lovely Walt Disney World, but have finally moved out of my parent’s lovely abode and am becoming a real life adult. Disney does not look doable for 2015 but maybe next year? PLEASE?? 2016 hopefully brings me Rivers of Light, Frozen, and a new trip! I have been torturing myself looking at dining menus, and construction photos, and I think it’s about time I get a life! What’s a girl to do with no trip to plan? I’ve got it! In the meantime, I bring you a trip from the past.

1

For those who don’t know me, I’m Nicole. I am a DISNEY FREAK. Ask anyone. I am a full-grown child, and it’s only getting worse. Oh, and Ariel is my favorite. Been in love since 1989.

Once upon a time, wayyyyyyyy long ago, I took a trip to WDW in November 2011. This trip is unusual because it was not with my best friend! OH THE HORROR. It was with my boyfriend! I know, I know... this is not what you are used too! We went to the world from November 7th to November 12th, 2011. 2011 was a rough year for us… My boyfriend’s younger sister passed away unexpectedly and we both needed to get away from everyday life. Sometimes you just have to splurge and take that vacation; you never know what life is going to throw at you.

We stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort because I wanted to stay somewhere it seemed tropical! November is usually pretty cold in the Northeast, so a Caribbean escape to Florida seemed like a wonderful alternative.

The very week before my trip, a freak snowstorm hit NJ, and since there were still leaves on all the trees, it wreaked havoc all over the state. Branches fell, roofs caved in, power was out for over a week, and Halloween was cancelled. CANCELLED. I was legit packing up my clothes for Florida by candlelight. I had an unrequested weeklong vacation from work before my scheduled Disney vacation… It was like a vacation to the 1800s. Verdict? Don’t ever go.

Left work early, and had to get pushed out of the parking lot.

9

Forget the Tower of Terror… this is true fear!

10

My mom's poor Halloween decorations!

2[/url
]

[url=https://flic.kr/p/w1zr4d]3

Got a little stir crazy!

5[/url
]

[url=https://flic.kr/p/vJAkEh]6
Social media by candlelight!

7

The pole that saved the day, power is restored!

8

Back to the point though, as I reminisced through these old photos, I figured why not share? And it truly surprises me how much of this DOES NOT EXIST anymore. Now, I complain as much as the next Disney fanatic when I say I want new attractions, new shows, new restaurants, new experiences, etc, etc., but looking back into the past, it’s crazy to see how much really HAS changed.

Join me in my time machine.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We flew out of Newark airport and took an early morning flight… the only way I travel. I need all the time I can get in the World!

DSC00275

Here we come!

The airport was uneventful, and thankfully my boyfriend is not directionally challenged like myself, and was able to read the map like a true intelligent human being. Me, I still don’t know my left from right.

Hopped aboard the Magical Express, watched the welcome show, and drove through those glorious gates. I was HERE!!!! I was HOME!!

We pulled in to our resort and I just remember being instantly transported. The music on the bus was jammin’ (we in Jamaica mon!), and the bright colors just brought out the allure of the Caribbean. It definitely didn’t feel like a snowpocalyse anymore! This resort was properly themed; you don’t feel like you’re in Florida anymore!

DSC00277

This trip was long before the days of Magic Bands, and maybe even online check-in. If not, I was an amateur back then and had not discovered the incredibly informative forums! We had to go to the desk, get our welcome packet and find out where our room was located. My how times have changed! Wow, I sound like an old pro!

DSC00278

DSC00279

The Cast Member assisting us said we could take the internal resort shuttle to our room which was located in Jamaica. YEAH MON! This was my first time at a moderate resort, and I was in complete awe! A BUS THAT TAKES YOU ALL AROUND? WHAT IS THIS LIFE? The detail and the themeing cannot be justified in words. Descriptions I read online cannot compare to my memories.

We were over the bridge in room 4629, and I personally loved our location. I do agree that this resort is large, but it is beautiful. We didn’t have to walk far at all to the bus, and to get to the dining area and pool we simply had to cross the bridge. As mentioned before, the resort also offers an internal bus shuttle. This option seemed like heaven after walking the parks all day!

It was nice to wander around the tropical plants, and circle the lake, and simply be away from the usual “hustle and bustle”. I was accustomed to the All Stars, and though I love them dearly, you could definitely tell you were at a moderate. I thought the entire resort was peaceful and I would sincerely recommend the Caribbean Beach resort to anyone traveling to WDW. You get so caught up with the “go, go, go” mentality and I think this resort offers an element of true relaxation. It’s a nice change of pace when travelling to the World. Heck, there even was a beach a few feet from our door!

carribean

DSC00280

DSC00281

DSC00282

DSC00283

DSC00284

Our room was immaculate, and it felt wonderfully cool. Just a few hours ago I was freezing my tush off waiting for my power and heat to come back on, and now I was thankful for air conditioning! We didn’t stay inside for very long though! There were places to go! Where would I take my “never been to Disney before” boyfriend first? Could I convince him to love Disney as much as I did?[/url][/url]

 

[prfctlyximprct]

Before running off to the parks, it was time for some lunch. A girl’s gotta eat! We wandered over the bridge to the main area of the resort! Thank goodness my bf can read a map; otherwise I’d be circling the resort on the internal bus! The quickest way anywhere, Nicole, is a straight line.

The Old Port Royale food court was beauteous! Bright colors, Calypso music, you felt as though you were still outdoors! I loved how everything was painted in vivid, tropical beach vacation colors. There were four unique counter service locations and it gave the impression that you were really out on a street! If you’ve been inside the Mexican pavilion, you will understand what I’m trying to say. Disney can make you go indoors and feel more outside than if you were standing in a wide open field. Disney, oh you melt my heart with your details.

DSC00285

DSC00287

DSC00288

DSC00289

Again, back in the day, I was an amateur, so I do not have food pictures from my first meal of the trip. I had a cheeseburger and fries (lame!)… so please forgive me! Ya’d think I’d be adventurous and try some jerk chicken.. but noooo!

DSC00291

We had gotten our refillable mugs at lunch and wanted to drop them off back at the room. Trekked over the bridge and back to our new home! Made my man watch some Stacey, because you aren’t really there until you hear her must do’s! I think this definitely amped up the excitement factor. Or maybe I am just partial to my girl.

DSC00292[/url
]
Selfies on our vibrant blanket! I don’t even think “selfie” was a word in 2011!

DSC00293
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
Now where do dreams come true? Where does everyone, no matter what age, become a child? Where do you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy?

There’s only one place on this big blue globe, and that’s the MAGIC KINGDOM.
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00294
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00296
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
Wreaths!! Wreaves?! I present you exhibit one of things that don’t exist anymore.
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00297
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
It is not officially a Disney trip until I take a million pictures of the castle! I was so happy to watch my boyfriend’s face light up. There’s just nothing like seeing this icon for the first time. Watching someone else experience the Disney magic just warms your heart and soul. And another one bites the dust! That Disney bug is contagious!

DSC00298
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
One thing we failed at this trip was getting a good castle photo. They all are strange! Did photopass exist back then?
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00299
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
What would our first ride be? I wanted to kick off this trip with a bang! Or maybe the right word is a blast?

DSC00300
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
I wish I had gotten this back then! Fast forward a few years and this beauty would be mine! Better late than never.
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00301
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
The first ride of the trip was none other than Space Mountain! My bf could not get over the queue; I think that’s one of the hardest things to explain to people who have never been to Disney. Waiting in line is themed. Waiting is an experience all on its own. It’s unlike any amusement park you’ve ever been too. It’s Disney.
https://flic.kr/p/vLA8Ka
DSC00302[/url
]

November crowds were pretty low; we waited about 20 minutes tops for Space. We screamed, we laughed, we immediately wanted to switch career paths and become astronauts. Okay, that is extreme, but it was an excellent start to the trip!

Next on the agenda was Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin! We battled it out and I lost. Well Zurg lost! Take that, Zurg! I still do not know how to become a Galactic hero! HELP!
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
DSC00303
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
Next was Carousel of Progress. Am I one of the only people who still love this attraction?? THERE’S A GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL TOMORROW SHINING AT THE END OF EVERY DAYYYYYYYYY.

Started heading back towards Main Street just in time to catch the end of Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade. Exhibit two of things that don’t exist anymore!
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
Cindy
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
DSC00305
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
Our doppelgangers. I know, Ariel and I are twins.
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
DSC00308
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
An incredible start to an unbelievable trip, day one was chalking up to be just what we needed.

“No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.”
https://flic.kr/p/uPzvom
DSC00309

 

[FlaggNL]

Hej there! So you are about to ge a real adult lol! Hope you have a great place to stay! Great that you share this older trip! And I am sure you find a way for 2016! And in meantime do it with 2011 and our PTR's and TR's! Off course following along!!

 

[TheMouseFan]

Loving it!! Love seeing pics of Caribbean Beach Resort. My hubby and I honeymooned there back in 1998. We were also in Jamaica, but room 4651. I absolutely love it there, and can't wait for us to take the kids there in June. And yes, they did have PhotoPass in 2011, because we used it for our Oct. 2011 trip.

Can't wait to read more!!

 

[Longers]

Yey another trip report!
Sorry about the circumstances but can't believe you were there at the same time as me! Damn we could have met in person but maybe in 2016 that might happen.
Following along and keeping my fingers crossed you can get back to the world next year. I will look for myself in the photos - lol

 

[prfctlyximprct]

Hej there! So you are about to ge a real adult lol! Hope you have a great place to stay! Great that you share this older trip! And I am sure you find a way for 2016! And in meantime do it with 2011 and our PTR's and TR's! Off course following along!!

Thank you! Being a real adult stinks! Where is Peter Pan to take me to Neverland?? Haha! Thanks for reading!!!

Loving it!! Love seeing pics of Caribbean Beach Resort. My hubby and I honeymooned there back in 1998. We were also in Jamaica, but room 4651. I absolutely love it there, and can't wait for us to take the kids there in June. And yes, they did have PhotoPass in 2011, because we used it for our Oct. 2011 trip.

Can't wait to read more!!

Love that Photopass picture! What an awesome memory! I wish I was more Disney educated back in 2011! Caribbean Beach Resort is stunning, and there are so many activities you can do! Your kids will have a blast! Maybe I can convince my boyfriend to honeymoon there? Muahha

Yey another trip report!
Sorry about the circumstances but can't believe you were there at the same time as me! Damn we could have met in person but maybe in 2016 that might happen.
Following along and keeping my fingers crossed you can get back to the world next year. I will look for myself in the photos - lol

How crazy is it that we were there at the same time!? If only we were both WDWmagic forum members back then! 2011 was a pretty rough year, but I honestly think the break at Disney did us a world of good. And thank you for keeping your fingers crossed, I am doing the same! Crossing my legs, toes, fingers arms, eyes.. I must get back to Disney!!

 

[prfctlyximprct]

It was soon time to explore more of Magic Kingdom. Where to next?? So many lands to travel around! How about a riverboat cruise? With elephants, and corny jokes, and the backside of water!

“We’re on the Nile, and the Nile is over 4,000 miles. It goes for miles, and miles, and miles. If you don’t believe me you’re in de-nile!”

You gotta love those skippers, real knee-slapping good humor there. Am I the only one hoping that the new restaurant in Adventureland has this wonderfully dry Jungle Cruise humor? I can’t wait. I would most definitely book my advanced dining reservation today!


DSC00310[/url
]

DSC00314
https://flic.kr/p/vJhc7u
DSC00315
https://flic.kr/p/vJhc7u
DSC00316[/url
]

After laughing until my stomach hurt, it was time to leave my stomach atop a mountain... as my body plummeted down a hill. What’s one less vital organ? To the laughing place!

https://flic.kr/p/vJhbeh
DSC00320
https://flic.kr/p/vJhbeh
We made it out of the briar patch and it started to drizzle. Big Thunder was still queuing up, so we decided what the heck! Let’s join the masses! Little did we know, whipping around those bends in a runaway train while water pelts you in face is not the most enjoyable experience! Again, we were in hysterics. Sometimes, having the time of your life is painful!

DSC00321
https://flic.kr/p/vJhbeh
DSC00322[/url
]

The rain wasn’t letting up, so I thought it’d be the perfect time to sit and enjoy a show. I tried explaining to my boyfriend the Hall of Presidents, and he thought I was insane. “All the presidents together in one room? You’re nuts, Nicole. It’s gotta be a TV screen.” Man, I love being right!

We were both mesmerized by the show. Even though it wasn’t my first time seeing it, you still leave with that “WOW” factor. I get goosebumps listening to our country’s history… I am a nerd. To think about all these great men coming together, and discussing the good of the nation could bring me to tears. You are truly transported to a scene that can only be found in your dreams.

We left feeling immensely patriotic and appreciative for the men who fought to make this nation the magnificent country it is today. Disney should have been my history teacher.

“For over two centuries, the Liberty Bell has symbolized Liberty to most of America. Cast from the same mold, this bell is a “second generation” of the original bell that hangs in Philadelphia. It was cast for Walt Disney World Resort in 1989.”
https://flic.kr/p/uPAbEN
DSC00324

We stopped and saw the second Liberty Bell! I now live in Philadelphia, so I’m glad I got this photo! I recently visited the original as well, and though it was extremely interesting… nothing beats the Disney version! It’s the atmosphere I tell ya…

“Past this gateway stirs a new nation waiting to be born. Thirteen separate colonies have banded together to declare their independence from the bonds of tyranny. It is a time when silversmiths put away their tools and march to the drums of a revolution, a time when gentlemen planters leave their farms to become generals, a time when tradesmen leave the safety of home to become heroes. Welcome to Liberty Square! “

If I could choose a land to live in, Liberty Square just about tops Fantasyland for me. The historical detail, and the charm of our countries beginnings… it feels like home to me. As mentioned before, I am a history nerd; I’m usually reading historical fiction, or daydreaming of living in another time period. The charm found within this land just speaks to my old soul.
DSC00325

“The Court of Flags: Thirteen proud and colorful flags, fly high today to honor the original states which became united under our country’s first constitution. A replica of the first national flag used in 1787 symbolizes the forming of the states to (begin?) our first union.”
https://flic.kr/p/uPAbEN
DSC00326
https://flic.kr/p/uPAbEN
We then made our way over to another one of my all time favorite attractions. Are you keeping track of how many times I claim this? Don’t… I think I say it for every one!

DSC00327
https://flic.kr/p/uPAbEN
DSC00328[/url
]

We made it out alive… but the Grim Grinning Ghosts tune was stuck in our head! Maybe the ghouls had won after all! 999 happy haunts with room for one more… take my boyfriend! Muhaha…

Next up was the happiest cruise that ever sailed!

https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00329
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00330
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00331
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
When I used to dream of WDW as a child, it always conjured up mental images of a scene that you’d find in It’s a Small World… Catchy tunes, a kaleidoscope of colors, people from all over the globe living in harmony. It’s a Small World captures the true essence of Disney: Childhood innocence and a glimmer of hope that all people of the world can get along peacefully and experience true happiness. It makes you strive for a better tomorrow. I'm a mush, don't tell me!
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00333
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00334
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00336
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
DSC00337

My teeth look like they are glowing! Like that episode of Friends where Ross uses whitening and then goes under a black light! Oops! LOL

DSC00338
https://flic.kr/p/vLYzqa
You can’t help but hum along and travel back to your childhood imaginings when riding IaSW. The days when anything was possible, and everything was easier, and the belief that deep down everyone is good. As we grow older, we seem to become bitter and frustrated with the world that we live in, and it is a breath of fresh air to hop aboard the “happiest cruise the ever sailed” and forgot that all for a moment.

 

[Ciara]

I'm loving it! You must take awesome notes, I'd never believe this was 4 years ago. It's just as good as your other reports!! Can't wait for more

 

[sheriffwoody]

LOVE! I can't wait to read the rest. Nothing better to beat the Disney blues than to re-live a trip

 

[prfctlyximprct]

It didn’t look like the Small World tune was leaving our heads anytime soon… DSC00339

DSC00341

A cruise around the world can really make a girl hungry! The very first time I went to Walt Disney World, I ate at Liberty Tree Tavern for my first “on property” meal. I remember falling deeply in love at that very moment, so I figured I should do the same for my boyfriend! The food, the dessert, the service… it was the epitome of Disney dining. In 2005, however, it was character dining, and though I missed my friends in their Colonial outfits, the food was just as I remembered. I’M DROOLING.

LTT

DSC00342

DSC00343

DSC00344

We were stuffed; we were elated; we felt as if we had traveled back in time to the very first Thanksgiving. We may have eaten enough to satisfy every Pilgrim that ever existed. To this day, Liberty Tree remains one of my favorites; it will always hold a special place in my heart.

We then wandered around the Christmas Shop… had to walk for awhile so we didn’t get “the itis” as we like to call it! You know the feeling… it’s like you must lie down and rest after consuming so much food. Truly just like Thanksgiving!

Fireplace

DSC00345

We started making our way back towards Main Street. We wanted to watch “The Magic, the Memories, and You!” It was the predecessor to the new castle show, “Celebrate the Magic.” They would flash Photopass pictures (guess it did exist!) over the castle to music, images of guests enjoying their day at the park. It was cute, and I so wished our photo had gotten up there!

I would compare it to what they do now at DHS for the Frozen firework preshow, showcasing Olaf enjoying his summer day with guests. Now they ask you to use a hash tag, and tag your photos on social media to be selected, back then they just randomly flashed pictures. Another thing that unfortunately does not exist anymore but the technology lives on.

I can never take enough pictures of the castle as it is, and seeing it all decorated for the holidays just made my paparazzi stalker photo skills even worse!

DSC00346

DSC00347

DSC00348


DSC00349[/url
]

It’s absolutely gorgeous in every single color, but purple is my favorite!
https://flic.kr/p/vKZwAN
DSC00353
https://flic.kr/p/vKZwAN
DSC00354
https://flic.kr/p/vKZwAN
DSC00355[/url
]

And then the icing on the cake to the most perfect day, Wishes! Once one sees Wishes, or any Disney firework show, all hope is lost. Small town fireworks will never ever be the same again. If there is no background music, should you even bother watching? Can you laugh, and cry, and become a kid again at any other show? Disney has ruined fireworks anywhere else for me, and I was so pleased to make my boyfriend feel the same way. Now we are both spoiled Disney firework snobs… but at least we can judge together!
https://flic.kr/p/vLXPbt
DSC00360
https://flic.kr/p/vLXPbt
The bus line was surprisingly short for our late night drive home. It actually wasn’t even that late, Wishes was at 8 PM! That’s the only negative about the November schedules, everything closes so early! We were exhausted, so it really was a good thing that we were forced to go back to our resort and rest up. My previous trips had both been in August, so I was accustomed to the midnight or later park closing times. I guess there are pros and cons to each visiting season, summer means higher crowds but longer hours, and winter means lower crowds but shorter hours. It’s all just a matter of your preference! Any day in Disney is a good day to me.

We got back to our new home, and I never realized until looking through these photos just now, this cute little cruise ship! Magic touches Disney’s attention to detail… it just cannot be surpassed.

DSC00361
https://flic.kr/p/vLXPbt
We also arrived home to a new little friend. He was our little fishy… or at least that is what we thought he looked like! You never can be too sure with towel animals.
https://flic.kr/p/vLXPbt
DSC00362
https://flic.kr/p/vLXPbt
Changed into our pajamas, hopped into bed, and watched some Stacey. Let’s do the must-dos! Where to tomorrow? It was around 9:30, and we were used to going to bed much, much later! It would be an early morning for sure! It’s crazy how you despise your alarm clock all week long going to work, but in Disney you look forward to the sun coming up! In everyday life, your body actually fights you to stay in bed, just five more minutes, or ten more minutes…SNOOZE, SNOOZE, SNOOZE. Disney is the only place where I can beat my alarm clock awake, and scream “HAHA!” when it goes off and I am already out of bed. Even your internal organs know you are in the happiest place on earth. I swear I go to bed with a big cheesy grin, and I wake up the same way. Only in Disney World.

 

[KathyJetson]

I'm so glad you decided to do this report! I'm loving it so far

 

[prfctlyximprct]

I'm loving it! You must take awesome notes, I'd never believe this was 4 years ago. It's just as good as your other reports!! Can't wait for more

Thank you so much! I have a whole folder of stuff from this trip, I really am a hoarder! So excited for your upcoming trip! And I'm so jealous!!

LOVE! I can't wait to read the rest. Nothing better to beat the Disney blues than to re-live a trip

This is definitely helping with my Disney blues! I have made myself crazy as of late, so I needed a distraction!

I'm so glad you decided to do this report! I'm loving it so far

Thank you so much!!

 

[prfctlyximprct]

Day 2

We woke up refreshed and ready to take on another day in Disney! I was starving, the story of my life. We headed over to the food court for some breakfast and to fill up our mugs. I couldn’t resist taking a classic self-timer photo before we were on our way!

DSC00363[/url
]
We both had bagels with cream cheese and split a chocolate chip muffin. Again, food photo fail. I was not as crazy as I am now, I suppose!

Hopped on the bus and we were off to let the memories begin! Where do the memories end?
https://flic.kr/p/vtYGss
DSC00364[/url
]

I never have patience when snapping photos. Some people take their time and set up the perfect shot; I am not some people. I go “picture happy” and just snap away without thinking! My anticipation just gets the best of me and I want to capture that feeling of first seeing the park’s unique monument. I swear I get goose bumps once that big golf ball comes into my sight line. This is one thing that hasn’t changed since 2011!

Can’t you just feel the rushed excitement???
DSC00366
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00367

After an easy entrance, we hurried over to my favorite pavilion, The Land!
DSC00368
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
I just found out that those four balloon represent the different seasons! Who knew? Spring, summer, autumn, and winter! Thanks to the See Ya Reel Soon YouTube channel and I becoming more educated in all things Disney!

I had been talking up my favorite ride for weeks now, so I couldn’t wait for my boyfriend to finally understand my enthusiasm. A ride that actually lets you hang glide? THIS IS THE COOLEST ATTRACTION EVER.

DSC00369
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00370
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
We even played the interactive games in the queue. I love watching everyone’s arms go all crazy as we wait in line trying to complete the challenges. I love that Disney adds this extra special feature. In today’s day and age, people are constantly looking at their cell phones, checking their social media, or keeping in constant contact with friends and family. It’s refreshing to see people put down the phone, and join in a game with strangers. I would rather pass my time playing games with my fellow Disney souls than by checking my cell. Look at Disney, interactive queue games back in 2011! Bringing Disney fans in line together for a common good.
DSC00372
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00373
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00374
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00375
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00376

The verdict? My boyfriend LOVED Soarin’. The wind, the wanting to put your toes in the water, the smell of fresh oranges, the fright you get when that golf ball comes zooming passed your face. He enjoyed every minute. We hurriedly got a paper fast pass so we could ride again in a little bit. (Another thing that does not exist!) It’s just an amazing thrill that will probably never be duplicated in real life. Hang gliding seems like such a farfetched idea, but Soarin’ makes it possible.

Since we were already inside “The Land” it was best that we went to see how to live with it! The quotes make my heart melt into ooey gooey pieces.
DSC00379
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00380
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
I adore Living with the Land and it reminds me of an Epcot I never knew. After stalking these forums for years, I get the notion that in the 80s and 90s, EPCOT was a place that had a mixture of education and entertainment, or “edutainment”. Living with the Land seems reminiscent of these days. As much as I love Disney and Pixar movies and characters, I like the fact that EPCOT offers original themes, and experiences you cannot duplicate in any other theme park. I love Frozen as much as the next Disney enthusiast, but I sadly agree it does not belong in my beloved EPCOT. Okay, back to LWTL.. making science and agriculture fun!

DSC00381
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00382
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00383
https://flic.kr/p/vLzXCr
DSC00384[/url
]
After LWTL, we headed into The Circle of Life. This film is about nature and conservation, and I thought it was particularly enlightening for kids and adults alike. It made me want to make a difference on this planet. I think this film is fun, yet still informative for young children. It reminded me of a childhood science class…Don't tell the kids that though!

We went from high in the sky, to living with the land, and now it was time for the seas! Let’s go find Nemo!
DSC00387
"Mine!" "Mine! "Mine"
https://flic.kr/p/vKZq1U
DSC00388[/url
]

"The seaweed is always greener, In somebody else's lake. You dream about going up there but that is a big mistake! Just look at the world around you, right here on the ocean floor...such wonderful things surround you...What more is you lookin' for?
Under the sea!"

Oops, wrong movie!

 

[FlaggNL]

Thank you! Being a real adult stinks! Where is Peter Pan to take me to Neverland?? Haha! Thanks for reading!!!

Someday you will find out that being a real adult can also be nice having the oppurtunity to visit WDW 3 years in a row..... LOL And about Peter..... well you have to use your imagination even more... Peter was here last night and the flight to Neverland was quite bumpy but we came there And even Julia was there in here role as Tink

 

[Mom@disney]

So glad you are reminiscing with us on an old trip! You have a great memory. I liked your comment about living in liberty square...I always say that I would love to live atop of Pecos bill restaurant in Adventureland! I would spend my afternoons on the verandah eating a Dole Whip and people watch. Looking foward to more

 

[jjbuster2]

Don't tell The Big Cheese but 2011 was the year we skipped. Thanks to your report I can check out what was going on at the time. We went to Tampa Busch Gardens instead and it was very nice but definitely a different experience than Disney.

 

[worldfanatic]

Looks like this trip was just a week or so before my 1st & only Xmastime WDW trip. Seeing the decorations and hearing the holiday background music is such a treat.

I wouldn't care if the report was 20 years old. Your Disney enthusiasm is infectious..... I'm in!

 

[prfctlyximprct]

Someday you will find out that being a real adult can also be nice having the oppurtunity to visit WDW 3 years in a row..... LOL And about Peter..... well you have to use your imagination even more... Peter was here last night and the flight to Neverland was quite bumpy but we came there And even Julia was there in here role as Tink

I will try to be more like you and use my imagination as much as possible! Sometimes I lay in bed and pretend I'm laying in bed at POFQ or Wilderness Lodge.. is that strange?! LOL.. and hopefully being a real adult just means being a big kid!

So glad you are reminiscing with us on an old trip! You have a great memory. I liked your comment about living in liberty square...I always say that I would love to live atop of Pecos bill restaurant in Adventureland! I would spend my afternoons on the verandah eating a Dole Whip and people watch. Looking foward to more

Isn't it nice to dream about living in the Magic Kingdom! How cool would it be if both our dreams came true!.. I would most definitely be dropping by your verandah and stealing a spoonful of Dole whip. Thank you for following along!! Now let's get on those moving plans LOL

Don't tell The Big Cheese but 2011 was the year we skipped. Thanks to your report I can check out what was going on at the time. We went to Tampa Busch Gardens instead and it was very nice but definitely a different experience than Disney.

2011 was my first time back since 2006 so it seemed like a lot had changed! And now when I look back, it seems like even more so has change! Guess the only constant in WDW is change! Glad to share 2011 with you! I've been to that Busch Gardens and remember a man cursing his head off at a bird that stole his food... great memories... Muhaha!

Looks like this trip was just a week or so before my 1st & only Xmastime WDW trip. Seeing the decorations and hearing the holiday background music is such a treat.

I don't care if the report is 20 years old. Your Disney enthusiasm is infectious..... I'm in!

I wish I had waited a week for Christmas in the parks to be in full effect! It was strange because some stores still had Halloween things, and then the rest were full on Christmas. I want to get to the parks during the holidays once in my life! Glad you had an awesome trip way back when, let's start planning new ones

 

[prfctlyximprct]

One of the best parts of this trip was watching my boyfriend’s eyes light up. Going with a first-timer is so enjoyable; you really cannot comprehend what Disney is all about until you experience it firsthand. He was amazed that there was a full blown aquarium after the Nemo ride. We could have stayed all day in the Seas, just watching the fish and sea creatures.

Me fail
DSC00389[/url
]
I feel like I look so young and strange in these photos...
DSC00390
https://flic.kr/p/vJgZsN
Jelly fish
DSC00391

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming! Who’s excited for Finding Dory?! A nice stranger offered to take this of us, it looks sort of like we're underwater.. right??
https://flic.kr/p/vJgZsN
DSC00397

Whatever this thing is, no thank you!
DSC00400
https://flic.kr/p/vJgZsN
DSC00401[/url
]
Now, he's more my style!
DSC00402
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
Is that you Nemo?!
DSC00403
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00404
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00405

Love me some seahorses! They look so majestic, and they remind me of the Little Mermaid. I want to ride on one...
DSC00406
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00407
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
This thing looks like an army helmet. DSC00408
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00409
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00411
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
Parachute jumper or jellyfish? You decide!DSC00412
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00413

We found the "hidden" Mickey! DSC00414
https://flic.kr/p/uPzeBS
DSC00415

Manatee’s hold a special place in my heart, these gentile giants just do something to me! I could watch them forever.

DSC00416

I loved watching them eat, and I kept thinking that this area must have been where the Disney Boy Meets World episode filmed! I'm pretty sure Cory and Topanga are in the Seas and then go to eat at Coral Reef restaurant. I could have watched the manatees chomping away on their lettuce all day, you get lost in their beauty and lose all track of time. At least that is the way I feel! My boyfriend had to drag me away, there was still so much to see and do! "Hello, Nicole.. first-timer here!"

 

[prfctlyximprct]

I was being forcibly dragged away, but look who I found! NEMO!

Dozens and dozens of Nemos!

DSC00417

DSC00418

We stepped back out into the sunshine and unknowingly caught a musical number at the Fountain of Nations. I always just thought this was any old fountain, but after becoming the Disney obsessed freak that I am, this fountain has become one of my all time favorite places in WDW. The cultural meaning and significance behind this fountain of water is so much more than meets the eye.

The International Ceremony of the Waters, and the dedication of the Fountain of Nations took place here when the park first opened. Cultural representatives, selected by their countries, traveled to Epcot with a container of water from their homeland and poured it into the fountain during the dedication.

World Showcase, and Epcot in general, embrace the idea of a peaceful existence, and living in harmony with your fellow man. I love the fact that World Showcase endorses the understanding and friendship of cultures from around the globe.

Here's a little tidbit I found that just blew me away!
“The bodies of water represented include: The Adriatic Sea, the Arctic Ocean, the Bodensee from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, the Caribbean Sea, the Cuaca River from Columbia, the Cho Jong Yak Soo, an underground river found in Korea, God’s Water from the Ise Shrine near Osaka, Japan, Harrison Cover in Barbadoes, Lake Geneva, Lake Inari from Finland, the Mananares River from Spain, the Meuse River from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, mineral springs water from Morocco’s Sidi Ali, the Mississippi River, the Nile River, the Philippine Sea, the River Thames, the Sea of Japan, the Seine, the Senegambia River, Denmark’s Tivoli Gardens Lake, the Trevi Fountain in Italy, Mexico City’s Xochimilco, the Yangtze River, and Zeplin Dam from the former Czechoslovakia.” (from frontierlandstation.com)

This list just astounds me. What a cool concept! What an amazing event! I wish I was there to witness it, or even alive to hear about!

DSC00419[/url
]
“These waters will flow together as a symbol of oneness of humankind and the hope for peace among nations, making this truly a fountain of friendship.” – Card Walker, CEO of The Walt Disney Company 1976-1983

And if ya don't know, now ya know!

Okay, enough with the sentiment Nicole, on with the show! Next up was Mission Space! Who doesn’t dream of becoming an astronaut one day?
https://flic.kr/p/vu6SA8
DSC00420
https://flic.kr/p/vu6SA8
DSC00421
https://flic.kr/p/vu6SA8
DSC00422
https://flic.kr/p/vu6SA8
DSC00423[/url
]

We decided to go all out and try the orange team… why not experience the full effects of the ride? The last time I had been was before these teams existed, so I was not too nervous. Otherwise, I would have been a mess!
DSC00424
DSC00425
https://flic.kr/p/vu6RL2
DSC00426
https://flic.kr/p/vu6RL2
DSC00427
DSC00428
DSC00429[/url
]

We made it successfully to Mars! And the Orange team didn’t effect either of us, we had a great trip in space!

We then headed over to Universe of Energy to join Ellen on her energy adventure. I love Ellen and Bill Nye, and I like to say all that I know about energy is thanks to this pavilion. Thanks Disney!

DSC00430[/url
]
We stopped to smell the flowers, and spotted a lizard! Can you see it? The flowers were so beautiful… I just love these small details.
DSC00431
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
DSC00432
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
Up next was none other than Spaceship Earth! My boyfriend was surprised to learn there was an attraction inside. It is pretty amazing to think about the intricate ride design in a giant ball... It's a ball on pillars.. Mind boggling!
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
DSC00434
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
DSC00435
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
DSC00436
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
DSC00437
https://flic.kr/p/vtYy77
We enjoyed planning our future which included living together, eating healthy while our robot vacuum cleaned the floor, and traveling. Now with this future traveling… it is the future now, can this mean a Disney trip is in store?? SPACESHIP EARTH PREDICTED IT. IT MUST BE TRUE!