Trip Report Return of the Noob......Fuzzy Memories part 2? Now Playing.

I know this is really delayed but I finally have my pics uploaded and soon enough this will begin. Just have been so worn out form work and trying to do projects and running to after school stuff not much time to just sit down and relax. Let alone try to compile 2000+ pics and videos. This TR will rely more on pics than video just because my upload speed is so slow.
 
Click to expand...
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

We reach the theater a little early and just hang out in the Rivers of Light area waiting for the rest of the party.
DSC00301 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Strollers were everywhere. With it being noon and our next FP not until 5 We needed to get some lunch.
DSC00302 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I lead the group to everyone's favorite Flame Tree Barbecue. Katie took the kids to go find a table. After ordering I was stuck at the counter with our drinks waiting for our food. There was confusion in the wait staff because this place was a mad house. Heather left with her food and said she would have Katie come back and help me. I did get some text messages that barely described the seating area and that was all the help I received.

So, I venture off with a tray full of food and drinks for three trying to find the group. I carefully balance the tray while trying to scan each area for my party. I continue down to next area and farther down to no luck. "Where could they be?" I finally reach bottom and head all the way back to the top of the seating areas back to the restaurant. At this point I was not in a G rated mood as I started lap 2 of the Flame Tree seating area.

Lap 2 I had more luck because I finally see Katie sitting in the first seating area to the left. I was happy to find them but was not in the best of moods for a little while. Here is an artists representation of the path I took to get to lunch table.
flame tree safari by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

It was packed. Full of people just standing and waiting for a table and birds all waiting for scraps. We all enjoyed our meals and made a game plan for the rest of the afternoon. We decided to head back to Dinoland because the girls wanted to ride the spinner and maybe Primeval Whirl. For us Animal Kingdom was going to be a full day park.
 
Last edited:
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

After lunch we backtrack again into Dinoland to see Chester and Hesters roadside tourist trap. I was explaining why it looks like this and the backstory to Katie and Heather. In short it was just a cheap way to fill space and get a few dollars from the carnival games at the same time. On our way to Triceratops Spin we see another meet and greet. This time it is for Goofy and Pluto. I tried to entertain myself by finding the little details in this open queue.
DSC00303 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I do not remember the temperature but it was freaking hot. This was not correct. With high humidity the atmosphere was unstable and a few light showers moved through while we were under cover. According to my weather app MK was getting the heavy showers.
DSC00304 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00305 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Playing with the panoramic setting. It did have some trouble with the stitching of this image but gives you an idea of where we are.
DSC00306 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We were in that line for at least 43 minutes. That is just the time stamp difference from the first image to the first image of the charcters. The line starts at the gas pump! That does not include what ever time it took me to get bored enough to start taking pictures. I figure at least an hour to be in that little hot area. These were good characters to meet but the guest interaction was almost to much.

I had to wait an hour in the heat to get them so you are going to have to at least scroll through them.
DSC00307 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920242 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920243 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920244 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920245 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I thought the way Pluto had to sign the books was comical. Resting them on his nose is the only way he could make it work.
AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920246 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00309 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920247 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00310 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr


AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863601 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863604 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I had the hardest time keeping my eyes open or my mouth would look weird because I was talking to the characters while getting the "good" pictures.
AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863605 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938897852 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938897856 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

With the meet and greet done lets go take trip in the flying dinos. We all had fun even with the blazing sun and humidity. After that Katie and Allie did not want to ride Primeval Whirl so I take Heather and Jordynn for a spin. This is the first and only ride for all of us. I thought I had taped the entire ride but must have forgot to hit record in the excitement or bumpiness of the moment. I had to flip the screen backwards and remember it bending the wrong way after one of the sudden stops. But it thankfully survived my despite mistakes.

 
fractal

fractal

Well-Known Member
Uncle Lupe said:
Day 3 AK cont:

After lunch we backtrack again into Dinoland to see Chester and Hesters roadside tourist trap. I was explaining why it looks like this and the backstory to Katie and Heather. In short it was just a cheap way to fill space and get a few dollars from the carnival games at the same time. On our way to Triceratops Spin we see another meet and greet. This time it is for Goofy and Pluto. I tried to entertain myself by finding the little details in this open queue.
DSC00303 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I do not remember the temperature but it was freaking hot. This was not correct. With high humidity the atmosphere was unstable and a few light showers moved through while we were under cover. According to my weather app MK was getting the heavy showers.
DSC00304 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00305 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Playing with the panoramic setting. It did have some trouble with the stitching of this image but gives you an idea of where we are.
DSC00306 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We were in that line for at least 43 minutes. That is just the time stamp difference from the first image to the first image of the charcters. The line starts at the gas pump! That does not include what ever time it took me to get bored enough to start taking pictures. I figure at least an hour to be in that little hot area. These were good characters to meet but the guest interaction was almost to much.

I had to wait an hour in the heat to get them so you are going to have to at least scroll through them.
DSC00307 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920242 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920243 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920244 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920245 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I thought the way Pluto had to sign the books was comical. Resting them on his nose is the only way he could make it work.
AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920246 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00309 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938920247 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00310 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr


AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863601 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863604 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I had the hardest time keeping my eyes open or my mouth would look weird because I was talking to the characters while getting the "good" pictures.
AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938863605 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938897852 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_DINOCHAR1_20170918_404938897856 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

With the meet and greet done lets go take trip in the flying dinos. We all had fun even with the blazing sun and humidity. After that Katie and Allie did not want to ride Primeval Whirl so I take Heather and Jordynn for a spin. This is the first and only ride for all of us. I thought I had taped the entire ride but must have forgot to hit record in the excitement or bumpiness of the moment. I had to flip the screen backwards and remember it bending the wrong way after one of the sudden stops. But it thankfully survived my despite mistakes.

Click to expand...



Lots a smiles in the photos and videos! 45 minutes in the heat and humidity paid off.

Your map cracked me up!
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
fractal said:
Lots a smiles in the photos and videos! 45 minutes in the heat and humidity paid off.

Your map cracked me up!
Click to expand...
Memory Maker is not a cheap option but I feel we got our ROI. So many shots we would have missed if we just used our camera.

That map was not an exaggeration. Reminds me of my Sunshine Seasons experience but to the next level.
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

Since we have milked Dinoland for all it was worth we head north to Kilimanjaro Safaris. Our FP for Flight of Passage was after 5 so i figure we just make the circle tour and land in Pandora in a few hours. I'll spare you the video of the safari. I have over 20 minutes of video between the safari and gorilla trails. Too much to upload. Katie tried to take pics so here are some of those.
DSC00312 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I'm filming.
DSC00315 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00323 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Was about the worst time to ride KS. It's after midday, hot, and nasty meant not many animals out doing much of anything.
DSC00330 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00334 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00336 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We did see the baby elephant.
DSC00340 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00342 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00347 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

After the safari we take the Gorilla Falls walking trail.
DSC00355 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00357 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00364 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We spent more time on this trail then was needed as a way to avoid one of the light showers that had moved into the area while we were on safari. The covered areas were a nice place to linger and wait out the passing rain.
DSC00369 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The two young ones were just playing everywhere.
DSC00376 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00377 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr


DSC00380 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00382 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00383 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00385 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

With the rain moved on and our FP window coming closer I urge the group to turn south and toward the most anticipated ( for me ) part of Animal Kingdom, Pandora.

Our last visit NFL was still under construction so we missed that until this trip. Back in the 90's Islands of Adventure was being constructed and still have never been there yet. So for me to experience something just built was going to be freaking awesome. I also wondered how the kids and adults which have no idea what anything was about would enjoy this new area? I had kept myself from watching ride spoilers but had seen a walk through of the land. I new enough but not too much not to see it with all the wonder of a child.

I forgot I even skipped past some of the last @fractal TR to avoid Pandora spoiler pics. I need to go back and read that sometime.
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

After the rain subsided we exit the Gorilla Falls trail to head south. We were ahead of schedule on our march from the African plain and nothing could stop us except a bug. No wait it's just Flick. I'm not sure where this is in the park but last time he was doing this around the Tree of Life. I guess we have time for a meet and greet.

Just noticed that lady in line has a nice taste in shoes.
DSC00387 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00388 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942262187 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277000 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277005 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277010 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Again my eyes are closed.
AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277015 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277018 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277023 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277048 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_CREATCOM_20170918_404942277554 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

You didn't think you were getting off without a video did you?


I hope after this we finally get to Pandora. What else is there to do in this half day park?

Sorry if some pics are not loading. Flickr is acting a little buggy today. LOL.
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

We finally make it to Pandora in the late afternoon. This was more for me than the others in our group. It was amazing to see this in person after watching it be built over the years. I lead the group across the bridge as the music fades away and the natural sound of Pandora take over you are easily immersed in the land. The scale is very impressive and no picture can due it justice as the floating mountain tower over you.

Join as we enter for the first time and take in briefly some sights as we head straight for Flight of Passage.


When we encounter the giant plant at the beginning of the land people had no clue what to do except me. People were getting pics in front of it and looking confused. There is no signage as what to do so I rush in to save the day. Fortunately, I was a vlogger and knew what to do in this situation. I direct the kids where to rub the plant and get everyone wet in the process.
DSC00392 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr
On the way out a few days later I got a guy really good doing this but he was not as amused as I.

DSC00393 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00394 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00396 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We push deeper into the land and find rest stop to dewater before our trip up the mountains.

I think Katie was taking some of these pics. I don't remember but the focus is just off unfortunately.
DSC00399 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00401 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00403 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00404 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Really like this shot. A little less sky would have been better.
DSC00406 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I wanted a good pic of those magnetic arches.
DSC00407 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The only sounds you hear are that of the wildlife in the distance, waterfalls and crowd noise. Just let yourself go and you are really transported to this land.
DSC00408 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_PANDORAENTRANCEICON_20170918_404943326937 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The PhotoPass opportunities change during the evening so if you get one in the daytime it is not the same as at night.
AK_PANDORAENTRANCEICON_20170918_404943326938 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Why did the stitching have such a hard time with this photo? Maybe all the small details.
DSC00409 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

That sun on Pandora is a killer.
AK_PANDORAENTRANCEICON_20170918_404943326943 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_PANDORAENTRANCEICON_20170918_404943326948 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_PANDORAENTRANCEICON_20170918_404943327501 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr
 
Last edited:
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

I can't get over the detail of this land. For all this to be outdoors I am curious to how it will hold up in the elements.
DSC00410 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Where are we heading?
DSC00411 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The kids have no idea about the movie. So I explain that we are on an alien planet and we are going to ride something like Soarin'.
DSC00413 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This was hilarious to me. My late mother had an arrangement in our house growing up that had these in it but the natural color. I don't know what they really are but was a fun surprise to find in Pandora.
DSC00415 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00416 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Allison could hardly contain her enthusiasm.
DSC00417 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00418 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

You can already see the debris growing on these guys. Wonder if that will be allowed to stay or will it be maintained?
DSC00420 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The sign said they respond to motion but it seemed totally random to me. It was the Soarin' games all over again.
DSC00421 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

For the first time in FoP I put away the cameras and just soak it in this first ride. We had our FP's so we skipped a huge queue and were flying in no time.

To say this is Soarin' 2.0 is an injustice . This ride was a huge leap forward in the entire experience from the preshow. To how you are linked and magically on the back of a banshee. A very clever way to distract you from the mechanical working of the load and it worked on me the first ride. Again don't try to figure things out just enjoy the experience.

I loved it! It was a long enough ride, great effects, beautiful scenes and the 4-D was a total shock

I was worried about the glasses being too big. They were huge for the kids but they managed. I could hear Jordynn yelling that she was scared. I was hollering like fool having so much fun. To me every drop and swoop felt real. Allie was holding on with one hand and the glasses with the other hand. Katie and Heather even enjoyed it and did not get motion sickness. I think the worry about the restraints was a little silly. I fit just fine even with my muscular frame. I'm 6'3" 210, packed on a few in the winter after this trip but would still be no worry. No knee, kankle or belly problems. The small world boats or Barnstormer is a more difficult fit.

I was so proud to have pulled this one off. All the advanced planning had made this a great day.

After FoP we spent sometime in the gift shop looking at all the over priced merch. Jordynn found the make your own necklace station and then Allie wanted one also. It is easy to get caught up in retail fever with the FoP afterglow still showing but a more pressing matter was food I thought. I was wrong. Making these necklaces was the important matter. Heather bought Allies necklace which was a small relief to me. Katie and Allie had used their $200 in Disney gift cards on pins already. I did not have an actual budget for souvenirs but nothing here was calling to me.

Up next was the hunt for food. Unfortunately, I knew nothing in this land would be good for our crew. As I explained Satuli Canteen along with some other offerings and after some frustrating exchanges. I saw the mech suit and I called a timeout. Who wants a daiquiri? Yes, this called for immediate refreshment.

One only?
DSC00422 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Better make it a double.
DSC00423 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

And one for the kiddos.
DSC00424 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00425 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I'll drink to this! Does it get any better?
DSC00427 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Still drinking. The boba balls were a weird touch and are a little off putting after a while.
0918171815 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

As we leave Pandora for the moment, it was an excellent time. We decided to go north to Pizzafari the long way.

Didn't we already get this shot. Who cares it's already paid for so let's use it.
AK_TRPLAZA_20170918_404946520242 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_TRPLAZA_20170918_404946520248 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

AK_TRPLAZA_20170918_404946418651 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr
 
Last edited:
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 AK cont:

As far as dinner Pizzafari was a good choice I guess. I have no notes good or bad so it was a forgettable dinner. Which after a day in the heat is always a good thing in my book. Simple food and a cool place to relax.

On the way to Rivers of Light we cross this bridge and I stop in my tracks. "Katie I have to get this picture." I had seen this in so many TR but never had seen it in real life.
DSC00429 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Hard to get the right angle when nobody else understands what you are going crazy over.
DSC00430 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Oh forbidden mountain you are calling to me but we have a date.
DSC00431 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We make our way to the FP entrance and I was thinking of @prfctlyximprct would be totally jealous.
DSC00432 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

So after years of planning, saving, making FP's 60 days in advance and planning an entire day around this show. This is where planning gets ya. Behind a freaking pole!!
DSC00433 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Our group is seated and we are assured that our view is not obstructed that everything happens out on the water. After a few minutes of us rumbling to ourselves we decide to be bold and make a choice. We get up and seat ourselves at the other end of the section and dare anybody to try and move us.

Now our new view, that's much better.
DSC00435 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Let me take a selfie. ( Find that song by the Chainsmokers, Selfie, you can hate me later)
0918171951 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Take another selfie.
0918171951a by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I took video of the show but again will be better versions already out there if you are wondering what it is. It fell totally flat in our group. I can appreciate the interpretative elements and that fact that you don't want loud explosions of pyro. If I never see this show again I would be totally fine with that. Only thing it does is suck, up the crowds. When we left the show EE only was show a 5 minute wait. So that is the time to ride. Let RoL lure in the suckers and enjoy other nighttime offerings of AK. If the IP's are held at bay for long it will surprise me.
 
Last edited:
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 3 Ak cont:

Even after all the anticipation and going in with no spoilers this show was a let down. Rivers of Light was a one and done event for us and we moved on to better things. I want World of Color way before Rivers of Light.

What do 3000 people do in AK after a night show is over? Everybody races to Pandora. Disney had CM's with signs directing traffic as soon as you left the theater. If you ever did the march of the toys this was a very similar.

We went to Pandora hoping to ride Na'vi River Journey but at the very least see it at night. With our camera this should photograph well.
DSC00436 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00441 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00442 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We reached the land very near closing. FoP was still a crazy wait and we were not going to wait in that line. We just took a casual stroll around the land and decided it best to go see River Journey to see if it was still open. It was and we entered the queue at 8:57pm with park closing at 9:00pm I was surprised they let us go but they did and I was thrilled. We were in line so this is a cheap but effective strategy.

The kids were unsure what to expect and I tried my best to explain but that was a hard ask. The ride is so short just as you are really enjoying your journey it's over. We waited maybe 15 minutes total. That is about the max I would wait. Great concept just way to short for what it is and could use some things that are not projections. I believe even the waterfall is a projection. But riding it a at night is a better option as it is a continuation of what you are experiencing outside.

Ride FoP whenever you can. Ride Na'vi River Journey at night. Kids enjoyed themselves at Pandora even with no prior knowledge and we had made Animal Kingdom a full day. Never thought I would type that about AK. We still did not get to "do" everything.



Still no new hat and I have not seen a single vlogger. I quit actively looking for YouTubers and just focused on us.

Kwaherini
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 4 Hollywood Studios:

Wow, day 4 already. This would be tale of two parks but one big problem. It was our Halloween party night so we started off the day in Hollywood Studios.

First time seeing this view in years. No BAH in the way but no Great Movie Ride. This was another ride that I was never able to experience in person and I very much regret that outcome.
DSC00443 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

No matching shirts but Katie had us in coordinating outfits. Star Wars... nothing but Star Wars!
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952089659 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We need some new poses. But it still works.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952089660 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This PhotoPass had some ideas of her own for us to use. Me looking my normal buff self. OMG! I have that ladies same orange shoes for work. Didn't notice that until now.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952089661 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Then she told us to do a pose using the force. I unknowingly crossed that with a young Elvis I guess.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952089662 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Now a random unsolicited magic shot.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952089663 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We had no idea what we were getting until later when the shots showed up in our accounts.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952091333 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952091327 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952091330 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Heather still has a hat.
STUDIO_HBTAILOR_20170919_404952091331 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00444 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

These are always fun to find.
DSC00445 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00446 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We hear some ominous music and see these guys doing a sweep of the crowd.
DSC00448 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00447 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

As they picked the girls I shamelessly pushed my way through the crowd, filled with happiness and jealousy.
DSC00449 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00450 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

They are asked the usual run down of questions and I am trying to position myself to be picked.
DSC00451 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Unfortunately they are pleased with what they find and decide to move on to other territory as do we. We have a Toy Story FP, Frozen sing along and ToT. Although I knew the kids would not want to go on ToT it was a FP just to use up the first three because we were switching parks later.

We make it to Toy Story before our FP window and the standy was a low time for this so we jump in the queue.
DSC00452 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Always monkeying around.
DSC00453 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 4 HS cont:

DSC00454 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Wait, that's not Toy Story. Exactly right. While waiting in line one of the tracks goes down and this is only 9:30 am. We wait for a little bit but because we have a FP for later we bail and decide to get on something that would be fast to entertain the kids. As I check the MDE it shows that ToT is also experiencing down time. The freaking park as only been open 30 minutes and is a shell of its former self and 2 headliners are down together. :mad:

Anyway. Little Mermaid is still a fun show but it is showing it's age. A neat mixture of live action, puppetry, screens, lasers and iconic music. It kept the adults and the kids entertained. What else could one want?

Ok so what else is there to do in this park?
DSC00455 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We missed this last time and it was now or never to see this show. The girls are at the upper end of this demographic but it was available so we went.

Never said she was perfect all the time.
DSC00456 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00457 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Hey what are you doing back there besides misbehaving?
DSC00458 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00459 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This show is for little kids and seating is directly on the floor. In elementary school it was easy but as an adult this was a test of endurance.
DSC00462 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Allie wanted a pic of everything. I have way more pics of this than anybody would ever want.
DSC00463 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00471 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00473 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Hey Doc.
DSC00478 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00489 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

The show has three main parts and is cute but really amied at younger kids of the Disney Junior. But ours played along and had fun.
DSC00488 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

With that over we continue to stay in the same spot and join a meet and greet.
DSC00494 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This PhotoPass was cracking dad jokes and made it really fun while I waited for the feeling to return to the backside.

Doc just came off a break and her interaction was great.
DSC00495 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00497 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330306 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330308 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00499 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330311 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 4 HS cont:

Hey look my eyes are closed for a change and I am in mid sentence.
STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330313 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330315 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330317 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_PLYDSCHAR4_20170919_404954330322 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

After getting our checkup we head back to Toy Story to hit the FP window.
DSC00502 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00503 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00504 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Here is where again the disadvantage of a party of 5 hits. Our group is split and I am lone man out much to the dismay of Katie. I was fine with it, I was not going to sandwich three of us on one side of that machine. So I ride with a group of 3. Two girls and the young grandmother. Woosh! Off we go and I feel that I dominated that ride. Again for all the wrong reasons. I had fun but it was a little strange riding with another family. I just wait at the unload for my group.
DSC00505 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I rejoin my missing toys after a short wait even though they were in the car directly behind me they were a few minutes making it to unload. Long enough for me to get that picture.

Now it was time to find some food for an early lunch that could satisfy everybody. Again I used the app with much success and we landed at the Backlot Express. We made it just in time to avoid another light rain.

A we ordered food Heather and I split up to speedup the process and while I am trying finish my order there is yelling and celebrating over at Heathers line. I had no clue what was going on but she seemed happy. Was it her birthday? No.

She got the red tray. Tadaa! Which is a big deal I guess around here and they give you a free dessert. How have I never heard of this?
DSC00506 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Allison had the kids chicken and waffles.
DSC00507 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I had the bacon cheeseburger
DSC00508 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

While eating I notice something moving.
DSC00509 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I study it for a second and realize it was the Indiana Stunt Show sets moving. Neat thing to see while eating.
DSC00511 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

I thought the food was really good. For what it is and where I would go back anytime. I'm no foodie but it was a good hamburger.


After lunch we are nearing time for the next FP the Frozen Sing Along. But first being the eyes on the ground for the boards I wanted to document this refurb.
DSC00512 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Standyby is for Noobs. That is not us today.
DSC00513 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

VIP please.
DSC00514 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We enter and are pleased to be waiting undercover in an open area but we can see the standby line building off to the side. When it gets closer to showtime they let the standby people enter and everybody is smashed to the front. This gets much worse one the doors open and you are almost pushed in this mad rush to get through that bottom door. You would think this was some sold out concert, it was nuts. Even with the upper door not even being used everybody wanted through that lower door. We all hold on to each other and flow into the theater and find our way to our seats. Maybe let the FP people enter before letting standby, just a thought.

I recorded the entire show but have this cut down for your viewing pleasure. This was a fun show. I know it is billed as the Frozen Scream Along. If a theater full of kids having a blast is misery to you then don't go. This show it worth a watch especially if your kids are in that age group. I had a fun time singing along and laughing at the jokes. At the end you are being sprayed with fog, snow and chills from the music. I would love to watch this show again.

Join us in my biggest production to date. See Doc McStuffins then join the race to find a seat at Frozen. See some show highlights and the big finale. I'll have to save the uncut 32 minutes of footage for @marni1971 video archival purposes in the future. If you have never watched his videos they are amazing.
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
fractal said:
Jealous of the tie-fighter shirt!

Would never consider watching the Frozen show - you may have changed my mind.
Click to expand...
I wanna say that shirt was a Target find. The show was fun and I was singing along just as much as any kid. Anytime you can spend 40+minutes in that Disney AC is a good time.
 
Uncle Lupe

Uncle Lupe

Well-Known Member
Original Poster
Day 4 HS cont:

Now that we are official citizens of Arendelle we were nearing the end of our park time and with mixed ideas of what to do next. Once we leave Frozen we see that Olaf is doing a meet and greet. The kids want to do this. Katie and I want to use our ToT FP. Heather offers to take the girsl to see Olaf and let us go to the Tower. She did not want to do that so things worked out in that respect.

As we slink off in the light drizzle that had started I realize we are close to Star Tours. I figure we could do this also if we hurry.
DSC00515 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00516 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This was not the droid we are looking for.
DSC00518 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

DSC00520 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

A CM sees our struggling and offers to take a picture for us.
DSC00522 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

This was my first experience of the latest edition of Star Tours. I still love this ride and it will always have a special place in my youth. But after riding the other simulators on property you see how old this really looks and feels. When compared to Soarin' and FoP it is falling behind and I see why it may not survive long after Galaxy's Edge opens.

Now that we are back on earth we only have to make it clear across the park to the Tower of Terror. While we were speed walking to the ToT the others were waiting to see Olaf. They had a 30 minute wait but they said it was a fun time. Olaf did not do autographs but had pre signed cards to hand out to people. The girls did say his arms were different. Looks like he has been hitting the gym.

While we were waiting for out departure this was happening.
STUDIO_CELEBRITYACHAR_20170919_404958635696 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_CELEBRITYACHAR_20170919_404958635697 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_CELEBRITYACHAR_20170919_404958635699 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

STUDIO_CELEBRITYACHAR_20170919_404958635750 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

We made it to ToT where we both ride and are nervous. We are seated in the same seats we had 6 years ago. Maybe we really had stepped into the twilight zone. I'm totally chill, just putting on a show. :rolleyes:
STUDIO_TOWEROFTERRORARIDE_20170919_8099189839 by Uncle Lupe, on Flickr

Memory Maker


This ride is still and emotional experience. I still hate drop rides but this is a Disney must do. Your filled with fear and wanting to get it over. But at the same time it is fun to be a little scared. I remember we had good sequence of drops this ride. Especially with one long sequence starting at the bottom to top and while in hang time all the way back to the bottom.

We get off the ride and find a few of the Hollywood Players in the basement avoiding the rain. They were posing as statues trying to scare people. I tried to tape them for a few minutes but it was hard to get their antics on tape. Actually while I was taping one of them creeped up behind me and gave me a small fright when I turned to leave.

We leave and call Heather to and make plans to meet back toward the front gate. My noob mistake hear was not getting a FP for Rockin' Rollercoaster. That was the one ride Katie wanted to ride. I did all the planning and figured I had a better chance of getting the girls on ToT vs a big coaster. Not getting Katie on RnR was a sore spot for the rest of the trip. I was informed that I should had made the coaster FP intsead. Maybe that is not so much of a noob mistake as it is just being a man.
 
Last edited:

Register on WDWMAGIC. This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.

Back
Top Bottom