Our Character Crazy Trip Report

As you may have seen from my preTR, we have been planning this trip for a couple of years...and minus a few issues here and there- it was as magical as we'd hoped for- and then some. Sure, we only did a fraction of what we had planned, but that was to be expected with a trip only a week long and two young kids. Probably the only thing I couldn't plan for was DD2 to finally hit the terrible 2s on this trip- thankfully, DD4 who is normally Meltdown Mama - was pretty good. I also apologize in advance if my references aren't all spot on- i.e. if I don't know all of the proper names for things- I know a lot, but I'm no expert. I also apologize for some of my sub par pics- I had issues on and off all trip. So, here goes (with the holidays- please be patient as it may take a little longer for me to update this)...

Day 1

We left IAH in Houston around 7:45am on Dec 7th for arrival at MCO around 10:40am. Aside from it being very chilly by TX standards (low 30s) and the crabby hag who told me to make DD2 shut up (crying b/c I insisted she wear her seat belt for landing), it was a fairly uneventful flight + I was able to pick out Epcot from the air. We made our way to the DME area pretty quickly and didn't have to wait too long for a bus.

The drive seemed to last forever, especially since we weren't the first stop (and b/c DH and both girls were doing the whole “are we there yet” bit). Thankfully, it wasn't too long before we arrived at WL and the tree/decorations had enough to keep them preoccupied for a while (after a while, DD4 started demanding to see Mickey in the lobby of the hotel).

We checked in online, but we still waited close to 30 min to get our keys, etc. At least our room was ready, so we headed upstairs. The girls really loved the towel creations- even though they couldn't quite grasp that one of them was supposed to be mouse ears (they lost interest by day 2 of towels).

We got all of our stuff situated and headed over to MK after a quick stop by the front desk for 1st Visit buttons (they were out – so I got “I'm Celebrating” and used a Sharpie to write in “my 1st Visit.” I wanted the first ride over to be by boat, I just wasn't planning on it being so cold and windy. We froze for a while, but the girls tried to make the best of it (aside from refusing to wear coats).

The boat arrived pretty quickly, and we were off! The boat would become our FAVE means of transport for the whole trip. The girls were pretty psyched to be on a boat; so, not much needed to entertain them. The tree outside of the Contemporary got the first big reaction,
but as predicted- the castle was the WOW factor. DD4 already had a pretty good idea of where we were after going in the main gate and going through the MK gate on the DME bus. In fact, after that first “Wow, it's the castle...”

...my follow up questions to make sure she knew where we were and what it was happened to be greeted with a “yes, I know, now stop asking.”

Good thing DD2 was more in shock and awe.

Love how DH had to shift her head to see it

THE CASTLE!!!

 

[LeafsFanNL]

We got to the bottom of the platform ramp and some guy was coming off- griping about how he'd been waiting for a monorail for over 30 min and there have been no trains. We took our chances, got on line, and wouldn't you know it- we started moving and several monorails came through. Then, as we were nearly at the front of the line, everything came to a screeching halt. We stood in the same spot for ages...saw several trains come by that were either filled to capacity or having technical difficulties. By this point, we were late for our ressie. I tried to call, but I was getting no reception. So, we kept waiting b/c the kids were hungry. Finally, another train came and people were able to get on, but not without some line cutting- screaming- etc. We didn't make this train, but we were at least in the “we'll make the next one or second one” spot. Sadly, two trains came through after all of that and didn't stop due to technical issues and the five minute wait we were promised kept turning into another five minutes. DD4 now had to go potty and it was well after 9pm. We parted the seas, made our way off the platform, and took a boat back to WL and just gave up on trying to make it to 'Ohana. I'm sure we're not the only ones who missed out on good dinner ressies that night.

I am not sure if you are aware there are launches which take people from MK to the Poly and GF. Its the boat with the yellow flag. The launches are our first choice, as the thrill of the monorail is over for us.

 

[LeafsFanNL]

While I got my FastPass, DD4 found something to play with to pass the time.

They also checked out the Siamangs. They were still cold and just “chillin'” out, but they'd be swinging later. The girls are used to this as this is what the Siamangs at the Houston Zoo do as well.

We then headed back to the area we came from to take our first safari. While the safari is nice and it was the girls' first time seeing hippos and a black rhino (who was having too much fun chasing the birds to be photographed), we were all a little bit bored with it since we're members at our local zoo and go quite often.

At least the girls were a little more into it than mom and dad- so it was all justified.

I know AK is much more than a zoo and we will return b/c we missed things this trip, but with the Houston Zoo being in the top 10 zoos in the nation (I believe it ranks two spots ahead of AK and is expected to move up with their new Africa exhibit), AK from the animal aspect of it all wasn't so much more spectacular to really keep the girls interested. I felt bad, but while everyone ooooo'd and ahhhhh'd over mandrills and Ankole cattle, we were pretty unphased. At least I got a few other OK (not great, but OK) pics.

After the safari, we took a restroom break and the girls played on a bench. A very nice CM came over, and while he was a tad awkward, the girls loved him calling them princesses and he gave us a great tip to pick out a spot in this area for the parade later on. So, the girls just played around until daddy came back (with hot cocoa)...
(I think they're sorting out their Disney silly bandz)

(ahhh- taken just before DD4 decided to shove her on the ground- good times...good times!)

(I think she's saying CHEESE)

This was our first touring day when we went to MK for rope drop. It was the only cool day for us. I remember getting a Coke and the cold drink made my hands pretty cold

 

[HouCuseChickie]

Nice. There is a stereotype about Canadians being polite, but if someone pulled that when my wife was around, they would remember it.

Reminds me of a Canadian joke. "How do you get 50 Canadians out of a pool? Say Can you please leave the pool."

Thanks for the WL Christmas pics. We wanted to get over there but didn't get a chance to do it.

Nice Joke!!! :ROFLOL:When I get to the last day of my TR, we run into the plane lady again. Good stuff!

I am not sure if you are aware there are launches which take people from MK to the Poly and GF. Its the boat with the yellow flag. The launches are our first choice, as the thrill of the monorail is over for us.

Funny you mention it- we were about 35 min into our wait when that crossed my mind. We were opting for the monorail b/c it was in upper 30s that nt and windy, but after that wait, the launch seemed like a good idea. Of course, by that point- the launch seemed like a good idea to a lot of people- so we stayed in the monorail line. They were running limited boats due to the temps- so the line for that was not pretty. Either way- that will be my first choice next time. We really want to stay at the GF our next big trip- so the boats are going to become our friend!

This was our first touring day when we went to MK for rope drop. It was the only cool day for us. I remember getting a Coke and the cold drink made my hands pretty cold

We had the girls' winter coats with us this morning, but as you can see from the pics- it was just sweaters by about 10am. Living in south TX, the girls are usually cold in anything below the low 60s (we're supposed to have a high of 85 today ), but i think the low temps on the 7th and 8th made them think the moderate warm up was a shift into spring. :lol: The running around like little crazy people probably helped as well.

 

[HouCuseChickie]

I snapped a couple pics inside the restaurant...

...and then it was princess time. I was up at the buffet, so DH snapped pics of the girls with Aurora (no clue if she was personable or not- that's what I get for trying to eat!).

Shortly after that, Cinderella approached our table. She asked DD4 if they'd met before since she looked very familiar. DD4 nodded her head and I told Cindy that we met her at the Castle a couple of days ago (of course it was a different Cinderella). Cindy then told the girls that she'd be back later to take pictures and sign their books, but asked if they'd join her in their parade/processional. The girls looked a little scared and confused at first, but I reassured them it was OK. Cindy took them by the hand and led them off. I found it hard to get good parade pics, but here they are.

(I know she doesn't look excited yet, but I don't think she grasps it all at this point)

(I'll spare you all the 40+ pics I have of this)

Considering Cindy is DD4's fave, this completely made her day. In fact, I think this trumped CRT for her. I still preferred being in the castle vs. the Akershus setting, but this experience was one of my biggest MAGICIAL WOW moments of the trip. We were not expecting Cindy at Akershus - period - but to have her do this for the girls still turns me into a sappy mess. Worth every little bit of $$$ and time away from the park!

A side note- I felt bad- I snapped a few pics with kids in the background (including one very sad little girl in a Cinderella dress) who didn't get to the parade in time and weren't invited by a princess- the saddest sweet little faces I've ever seen. I didn't notice it until I was going through my pics- but had I see at the time, I would have tried to help work them in just so they could enjoy too.


Snow White came up to the table after this. This was our first and only Snow White meeting this trip, so I was really glad we booked this meal – just for this (since deep down I was hoping DD4 would have opted to be Snow White on her BBB day- DD2 was set on Snow White for her costume before the trip, but called an audible while shopping on day 1- so sad). She spoke in that sweet high pitched Snow White voice and we discussed the dwarfs a bit before she moved on.

Cindy was back and DD4 was super happy. DD2 didn't initially want to come down from the table, but this Cinderellas was SOOOOO sweet and DD2 joined pretty quickly. Of course the pics with just DD4 were better, but at least I got one with both girls. We also made sure to thank Cindy for everthing earlier in the meal.

Next up was Ariel. We had a great discussion with this Ariel. First we talked about getting in trouble for using dinglehoppers, we talked about Sebastian and Flounder, and then about how silly Scuttle is...DD4 kept yelling to ask her about the “eagle”- i.e. the SEA GULL- good thing she did, b/c I never would have remembered. Ariel also noted that the pic we used for her in the girls' autograph books was the dress she wore the first time she dined with humans. Good stuff!

 

[HouCuseChickie]

Now on to the main courses. DH got the chicken sandwich and just kept raving about it.

My dad and I got the kjottkake (the waitress tried to give me pronunciation lessons- at least she got a good laugh out of it). They weren't anything special- just filling.

My mother got the mushroom ravioli and couldn't stop talking about how great it was.

I guess at least the appetizer buffet was semi-decent for me. I got some more smoke salmon, salami and cheese- so that made up for my entree.

And after DD2 managed to drop a plate on the floor- it was dessert time. It was OK- not great.

Unfortunately, we didn't get anything accomplished after lunch since it was a very LONG lunch- especially with the wait. DH thought about getting DD4 on Maelstrom after lunch. The line was nothing before lunch so he didn't FastPass and by the time lunch was over, it was 35 min to ride. We had FastPasses for TestTrack from my brother and SIL (they did not join us for lunch), but I just gave them away since there was no way we were riding it at this point. So, we just headed back to WL for a nap.

DD2 was super cranky the entire bus ride back to Epcot (I know- it was getting old for us at this point too!). Some wonderful people on the bus offered me their seats and several people tried helping make her happy. The man seated next to me showed her pics of his dog and this seemed to really hit the spot. So, a big thank you to the man with the schnauzer named Moosie (sorry if I spelled it incorrectly). It was dark by the time we got back to Epcot.

We immediately hopped on Spaceship Earth.

We were in a hurry and couldn't stick around to see our pics up on the big screens, so I tried to snap a few flashless pics during the ride. It cut off DD2's head, but you can kind of see me (and all of the fingerprints on the screen – I used my hand sanitizer right after this!).

(it's really sad- this is the BEST pic of me from the entire trip!)

At least the girls REALLY enjoyed this. All I heard were WOWs through the ride.

We checked out the fountain water choreography to the holiday music before heading over to the WS. We caught a little bit of the holiday story telling in Norway, but the girls were super cranky this evening – even with a 3+ hour nap (this is where DD4 lost her chance to ride Maelstrom- DH felt bad and told me he still wanted to let her ride, but the girls were already off their routine and being indulged way more than usual).

We gave up on trying to do anything major and just headed over to Rose & Crown for dinner and hopefully- Illuminations.

 

[HouCuseChickie]

DD4 was now fine and toured some stores with DH, but DD2 was a mess. The R&C hostess gave her some stickers after we checked in, but it didn't help. I pulled out some glowsticks (bought a bunch of these and LED jewelry wholesale pre-trip) and that started to help.

Oddly, what really turned it around- we started finding trash cans with stars while in England and she counted the points. At one point, a group of people trying to figure out what to do next stopped and watched her count the points- like it was her own little counting show. She got a round of applause.


I was hoping to time this R&C meal with Illuminations, but 7:40 and 7:45 were the best times I could get (we were two parties of 4). I didn't request a seat outside since everyone had noted that people seated inside would be escorted outside before Illuminations started...plus the tables on the side patio had the plastic covers down. We weren't seated until 8:10, so things were looking up. They were also kind enough to find us two tables right next to each other. Now we just had to order enough to pass the time. We started out with the Imperial sampler...and after the way the girls were acting – WE NEEDED IT! We also got them drinks with glowing Tink and Buzz to help keep the peace.

DH really would have preferred the scotch sampler, but he'll be getting something along those lines for Christmas- so we stuck with beer/cider.

My parents, brother and SIL started off with the cheese plate and DH and I shared the sampler with the girls (no, not the Imperial one). It had Scotch eggs, beef pasties, and soup (potato leek). The soup was so/so, but the Scotch eggs and pasties were great. Sorry- no pics.


After a while, our entrees arrived. I had the surf and turf. I never got a pic of DH's bangers and mash.

I'd soon learn that I can't take a good steak picture. Like so many steak pics, they all came out looking gray and unappetizing. The actual food was very good. The steak, while a tad sinewy, had nice flavor and was nice and rare. The fish was super yum!!!


Everyone seemed to be enjoying things (pardon the blurriness), but I'd later find out that my mom's food (fish and chips) didn't sit well. My dad and brother got the sheperd's pie and didn't really care for it.

Now on to dessert...DH got the scotch cake. He really liked it, but it did nothing for me.

I got the sticky toffee pudding and enjoyed it.

(funny- noticed the bottled water in the background...we drank beer much of the meal, so our server suggested a bottled water to cover our included beverage for the meal- GOOD CALL!)

It was around this time that I noticed the torches lit for Illuminations. My brother said that the server told him she'd make sure we were moved to a spot to watch, but as time passed- I realized that wasn't happening. Our server had our cards and we were just waiting on her to bring them back so we could sign...And then BOOM- Illuminations had started and we were still sitting inside. My first instinct was to take the girls and run outside to see if we could find any open space on the patio. DH was a bit ticked off at me about this b/c he got called back in to sign the check.


My Illuminations pics are awful b/c the seating we found had a bit of an obstructed view, but here's what we got...

I know- two pics of the globe- BIG DEAL! I took some video, but I really was just so upset and it was all such a mess that I was in no mood to be taking pics.

And now time for me to rant a bit- I had been trying since June 10th to get a well timed dinner ADR at R&C for Dec 10th. I expected the place to be packed since nothing better than what we already had ever came up. The inside seating was about half full – same goes for the outdoor seating. Maybe it was b/c it was a cold night, but it really ticked me off that the place was soooo empty throughout our entire meal, yet I tried soooo hard to improve our ADR time. Secondly, lots of people stated prior to our trip that they'd bring people outside for Illuminations who were seated inside. While it may happen for some people, I wouldn't count on this. We didn't see a single inside party get taken outside- regardless of seating time. In the end, my parents were happy we did this b/c they were freezing and the shelter R&C provided was right up their alley + we got an extra flashing Tink from all of the chaos, BUT never again! I would eat at R&C again- the food was really good, our server waw incredible, and I even saw the Hat Lady on a trip to the bathroom- I just won't ever try and time it with Illuminations.

At least DD2 is now happy. I got a shot of Canada on our way out of the WS and it was off to try and ride Living with the Land again (evening EMH).

 

[HouCuseChickie]

So, we got to Living with the Land and this time we walked right on. The girls actually really liked it! I'm still sad about the lack of the old music, but what can you do? (whine, cry, complain?)

We walked around a bit- sad that we never made it on Universe of Energy, but I had to walk by just to see the entrance (silly- I know).

There wasn't much running that the girls could ride, so we headed over to the Epcot Character Spot after watching the fountain again for a little while.

The girls were wired and I was tired- couldn't hold the camera straight. We waited about 20 min, but as soon as DD2 was given the green light – she bolted for Mickey. I seriously thought she was trying to tackle him. For 11pm this Mickey was great...even twirled the girls around – too bad DD2 isn't quite coordinated enough to twirl.

Then it was hugs from Pluto. I was so tired that I even missed Pluto putting DD4's head in his mouth.

Minnie was sweet, and Donald and Goofy a bit rushed.

(sorry- never got the red eye out of this one b/c it just add to that crazy look the girls had in their eyes all night- I know - just awful- LOL)

(hmmm-need to remember that the sparklies and color fade on DD4's shirt does not photograph well)

 

[HouCuseChickie]

DH and I were ready to drop at this point...so, it was off to the bus. It was freezing (at least it felt that way- it may have been the exhaustion), so I made the girls wear the hats I bought for their trip. DH started joking about the news reports that could follow if someone used DD2's had for a robbery...ALERT- Be on the lookout for a bandit donning a Minnie Mouse mask! She's cute and dangerous!

At least it brought some late night levity to all of us waiting for the bus- especially since a handful of us couldn't fit on the bus waiting there when we arrived.

DD4's hat just isn't as much fun. She wanted a Minnie one too - at first- and then she realized how much more comfy hers is.

We got back to WL around 12:20am and it's off to bed. We also just decided we're skipping morning EMH at Disney Hollywood Studios.:sohappy: At least I remembered to put the Do Not Disturb Sign on the door (more about this later). :snore::snore::snore::snore:

 

[LeafsFanNL]

If I am reading this right, your Epcot Day was Friday right? If that's the case, we were dropping a pot of money at the Premier Outlets that morning. When you were at Akershus, we were at the R&C pub, we were in the hot tub that afternoon, saw the Osborne lights and ate at Yachtsman. It was a much warmer night than the night before.

 

[LeafsFanNL]

Yes that's right, we made it to EMH at the studios, then again we were in bed by 10 pm

 

[HouCuseChickie]

If I am reading this right, your Epcot Day was Friday right? If that's the case, we were dropping a pot of money at the Premier Outlets that morning. When you were at Akershus, we were at the R&C pub, we were in the hot tub that afternoon, saw the Osborne lights and ate at Yachtsman. It was a much warmer night than the night before.

Our Epcot day was Dec 10th. It was odd- we didn't really notice a cool down until some time after 11pm. I still think it had something to do with us being so tired. I recall thinking that I could lock the stroller wheels, redo the pack/diaper bag so the diapers were on the outside to serve as a pillow- and rest it on the stroller standing board, and use my coat as a blanket.

 

[HouCuseChickie]

We slept in until a little after 8 this morning. I hated missing morning EMH at DHS, but we soooooo needed the rest- especially since today was a day where I wanted DD2 to nap in the stroller. At least we were still pretty full from dinner the previous night and felt no need to even stop for a snack.

We got to DHS by 10:30am. We took the bus with my parents and eventually met up with my brother and SIL. Just like the previous morning (sorry- never really got into that)- it was just a mess trying to get in touch with everyone, but it all worked out (I think I had one of those- I'm going and hopefully they'll be there too - kind of moments). As I was going in, we canceled our 11:05 ressie at 50s Primtime – although I STILL want that milkshake I missed out on. The last thing I wanted to do was enter the park and head straight for lunch after missing so much the previous day.

At least DHS has a really nice tree...significant b/c DH had been complaining that he really didn't care for Epcot's and AK's trees.

Our first stop was Toy Story Midway Mania. As expected, the FastPasses were all gone and the wait time was 70min (changed to 80 just after we got in line). I actually wanted to see the queue more than ride the ride, so we decided to wait for it and snap pics along the way (although DH really questioned my decision here). Nobody else wanted to wait with us- so my parents went off with my brother and SIL to do their own touring.

Mr. Potato Head ROCKS! (although, those animated eyes creep me out!)

70-80 min turned out to be about 45. The ride itself was fun, but not worth the wait. I had DD2 with me who didn't score a thing. My score was pretty pathetic.

DH did better- around 129k...of course, he claims it would have been MUCH better if he hadn't been trying to help DD4.

We both agreed that TSMM is a decent ride, but not really worth more than a 15-20 min wait. I think we enjoyed the queue more than the ride... talking about reels we owned for our respective Viewmasters, playing Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders, and how Mr. and Mrs. Potatohead parts are still hidden all over our house. At least this was one of the queues that would REALLY keep the kiddos entertained (that, and the little boys behind us on line). I don't think the girls even cared about the ride- I think they were more interested in us getting a car with the Alien on it. Oh well.


DD4 wanted a pic with an Army man on her way in- I told her she'd have to wait until after we were off the ride (she and DH were not happy about this), but we honored that wish on the way out.

The line for pics with the other characters was way too long and we were so far behind that we skipped it. Of course I got to wait around with Little Miss More Fun than a Barrel of Monkeys while DH took DD4 potty.

Seriously- why did she have to hit the terrible 2s on this trip!?!?!?!?

DH and I were having a tough time findnig our groove this morning. We worked really well as just the 4 of us, but then got thrown off our game when everyone else arrived...and now that it was just us 4 -well, it took us some time to regroup. I think we were also bothered that we got to do sooooo little at Epcot the previous day. After deciding the Backlot Tour wasn't in our plans, we made our way to Backlot Express for brunch. In hindsight, I wish we had headed over towards Beauty & the Beast and Tower of Terror, but not much we can do about that now.

Oh well- I got a grilled veggie sandwich with marble cheesecake. Not too bad, but it really needed some seasoning. DD2 liked it though- she said it was “Alicious.”

With young kids, we figured Honey I Shrunk the Kids would be a hit...and since we were right next to it, it seemed like a no brainer to stop.

(someone really needs to cut the grass)

 

[HouCuseChickie]

We lost DD2 underground for a little while (actually, DH lost her- he came out and I was like "where is she???" and he said she crawled off into an area too small for him, but she'd surely come out at some point. I didn't know where everything went in there, so I got down on hands and knees- crawled in there- and started calling for her. She came out almost instantly. Whew!)

but the film slide was a hit.

(of course these kids only know digital cameras- "mommy, what is film?"

Then on to the ant rodeo! I don't think they want a horse anymore!!!

We walked through the unlit Osborne Lights to scope out some good taping and viewing spots...this is when DD4 decided it was time to sing.

We headed to MuppetVision after this. Even thought the 3D on this is only so/so, I love it- just like I loved it back in 1992. Anything with the Swedish Chef, Statler and Waldorf, and Beaker is a hit with me. DD4 managed to keep her glasses on this time and said was AWESOME, but DD2 refused. DH wasn't impressed.

I didn't want to stray too far b/c we had a 3:50pm ressie at Mama Melrose (Fantasmic pkg)- it's slow going with 2 little kids in tow, so we headed over to Voyage of the Little Mermaid. DD2 was back in meltdown mode, but a fine mermaid monkey helped. A man from another family also talked to her – just sweet silly things – and that helped as well. Part of me felt bad that so many strangers had to help turn meltdowns around, but I've been in the reverse position and know that a stranger is sometimes more effective than people the kiddo knows. Still frustrating. At least she didn't melt down during attractions and character meetings (even though some scared her). I still kept an eye on the exits in case I needed to rush out in the even she became disruptive.

I really liked this...as did the girls. I found myself starting to cry during Under the Sea. I also really liked the under water effects with the green lasers. DH wasn't overly impressed, but it may be all of the princess movies he's subjected to on a weekly basis.

We headed back to the Great Movie Ride. This was the first thing I rode back in early 1992. I was disappointed then and I was disappointed this time as well. At least we didn't have to wait and DD4 loved seeing the ruby slippers. Surprisingly, she also wasn't freaked out by the Alien portion. I thought for sure this would have scared her. We were at the very back of the car, so we were also pretty far back from most potential fear causing aspects. I actually would have skipped this one, but DD4 kept seeing the banners with Dorothy and saying "look mama, it's Darfee"- so I felt obligated to take her on and see (she was Dorothy for Halloween).

What's funny- aside from DD4 not being scared, she didn't think much of the ride either.

 

[LeafsFanNL]

DD4


I was hoping to time this R&C meal with Illuminations, but 7:40 and 7:45 were the best times I could get (we were two parties of 4). I didn't request a seat outside since everyone had noted that people seated inside would be escorted outside before Illuminations started...plus the tables on the side patio had the plastic covers down. We weren't seated until 8:10, so things were looking up. They were also kind enough to find us two tables right next to each other. Now we just had to order enough to pass the time. We started out with the Imperial sampler...and after the way the girls were acting – WE NEEDED IT! We also got them drinks with glowing Tink and Buzz to help keep the peace.

Who had the Guinness?

 

[LeafsFanNL]

It's funny how we were in the same park, or at least for a while on two days in a row. We bailed over to AK about 11 am I'd say, probably just as you came in. I just scanned your Hollywood and vine pic to see if i could see us, I did not. I did notice the Disney Channel Rocks on the go in front of the GMR. We walked by the show as we left the GMR on the way out. That's pretty freaky!

 

[disneygirl1]

What a wonderful TR!!! Your girls are adorable!!! We stayed at AKL the 1st week of Dec. We loved it!!! BOMA was GREAT too!!!

 

[brifraz]

Absolutely loving your trip report. Brings back a lot of memories of our first trip with DD (then 2, now about to turn 7). DW and I had been a few times prior, but it was the wonderfulness of that experience that got us to buy DVC. (although, reading about your Epcot evening has made me pine for Rose and Crown - our favorite Disney hangout)

Thanks for posting and can't wait to read the rest!

 

[HouCuseChickie]

Who had the Guinness?

I did! I love the stuff. Too heavy for DH.

It's funny how we were in the same park, or at least for a while on two days in a row. We bailed over to AK about 11 am I'd say, probably just as you came in. I just scanned your Hollywood and vine pic to see if i could see us, I did not. I did notice the Disney Channel Rocks on the go in front of the GMR. We walked by the show as we left the GMR on the way out. That's pretty freaky!

It is kind of funny how so many of us could be around the same place at the same time, but totally miss each other. I have some friends from home and college who were there at the same time as well...never saw them once.

What a wonderful TR!!! Your girls are adorable!!! We stayed at AKL the 1st week of Dec. We loved it!!! BOMA was GREAT too!!!

Thank you!!! I really liked our evening over at AKL. Hope you guys had a great trip! :wave:

Absolutely loving your trip report. Brings back a lot of memories of our first trip with DD (then 2, now about to turn 7). DW and I had been a few times prior, but it was the wonderfulness of that experience that got us to buy DVC. (although, reading about your Epcot evening has made me pine for Rose and Crown - our favorite Disney hangout)

Thanks!!! I've always loved going to WDW, but a trip with two young children opened up a whole new world of Disney to me. DH isn't on board for DVC, but he's good with another big trip in two or three yrs and some mini trips when we visit my parents in S FL. Funny w/Rose & Crown- I'd read so many mixed reviews (including the ones from my parents and brother/SIL), but DH and loved it and totally go back again- although I think we'd prefer a kid free day so we could spend more time indulging in the beer offerings in the pub. :lol:

Thanks for posting and can't wait to read the rest!

 

[HouCuseChickie]

Sorry Brifraz- my reply ended up incorporated in your quote. Another reason why I shouldn't multitask!:hammer:

 

[HouCuseChickie]

When we got out, Block Party was starting up. We were standing in the second area for the show, so we just waited. My bright yellow jacket enabled the rest of my family to find us in the crowd. A couple next to us told us that a CM said it was a good spot to watch, so we stayed. The waiting was too long for DD2 and she only wanted me- so we took a walk. Technically, this is when she was supposed to nap in her stroller, but there was just too much going on for her to allow that to happen- figures!


We made our way back to the group once they started moving to our area. Never having seen Block Party, I didn't know what would stop in front of us, but I figured it must be good if a CM told that other couple it was. Sadly- we watch Toy Story keep walkin on by. Of course DH couldn't get a single shot of Boo when all of the Monsters, Inc. crew went by (I take that back- I did find a itsy bitsy tiny bit of a super small part of her costume make its way into a corner of one photo). So, no Monsters Inc for us either. I could see the A Bug's Life crew making their way towards us but, they stopped well before us. We were left with an Army guy and a bunch of dancers.

I REALLY didn't love our spot and the girls were bored to tears. I think DD4 felt a little slighted in that she wasn't asked to hula hoop with some of the other girls around us- of course, she doesn't know how to use a hula hoop. I guess at least we got Mrs. Incredible- yay Elastagirl. At least my brother was able to catch a few balls at the end of it all.

It's funny, minus my very first trip to WDW, this is really the only time I've ever stopped riding to watch parades. Also funny that I can also hear the music from that first 1985 parade in my head - went something like "Thank you Mickey, Thank you Donald...we're so glad you're here. The whole world wants to thank you - thank you..."- MK parade. OK- back on track.

We got to Mama Melrose just on time...of course, they were running late- just as most reviews said they would be. We entertained the girls with coloring. One of the hostesses brought over some extra sheets and crayons to help. The place was pretty packed, but I guess the wait was due to us being a larger party.

(nothing like coloring on the floor)

We finally got a table, but everthing seemed to take forever. I actually went back out to take more pics of the waiting area while we waited some more at our table.

For appetizers, DH and I each got the mozzarella and tomatoes and my parents got the wood fired mussels. For our entrees- DH and I each got the steak. I hadn't seen this on the Allears menu, but was happy to see it as nothing else was really jumping out at me. The steak was big and very good. The cabernet sauce with it was excellent...my grayish steak pics just don't do it justice.