Totally Different Kind of Trip...

[Magical JenK]

Ok, I'm back. I'll post much more w/photos later this week but for now know...
1) I'm back...arrived at my home at 4am on Monday morning due to a "sabatoged toilet" causing my flight to be 4 hours delayed. Glad I took Monday off from the get go!

2) We had a great time, don't get me wrong, it was just totally different...on many different levels. I knew it would be different, but I didn't know how much different it would be. All good...some bad, but mostly good.

3) LOTS of food photos for all of us to drool over. I never take that many food photos w/DH around, so I really took advantage of no one looking at me like I was crazy!!:p

4) As Traci stated, met up w/Traci & Janet & we LAUGHED & LAUGHED & LAUGHED! And btw...Traci's daughter is just about the sweetest thing I've ever met & so dang funny!! That girl's got SPUNK. And what's so sad...I didn't get one photo of her!! (My camera did start to die towards the end of the night...must have been all the food & drink photos I took.) Oh & her DH is pretty dang sweet & funny as well! Drove us around to SSR & back to our resort! That's pretty nice! (Thank you Kevin!)

5) Weather was half good, half bad....more on that later.

6) Crowds were INSANE!! I missed my September crowds big time! Just made me VERY grateful for the fact I'm going back (& REALLY hoping my December crowds won't be like April!!)

7) Oh we shopped! And shopped! And shopped! And shopped!! And shopped!! So much so I had buyer's remorse at one point, but I got over that pretty quickly!! :angel:

8) DH is doing well w/the knee. They took the stitches out last Friday & he needs to continue to wear the brace until this Friday. Then he can start putting whatever pressure he can on it. He's off work through May 4th & then he'll go to light duty (in Investigations I think) for a few weeks. My trip was great for him because he got to stay at his parents' house while I was gone. She made him breakfast every morning & someone (mom, dad, nephews, neices, sisters, etc) was ALWAYS there so he wasn't ever alone to sit & worry about his knee. This is EXACTLY what he needed. When I went back to work last Tuesday he called me & said he was getting depressed & what if he never was able to run like he could before & he couldn't do his job. Poor thing. So honestly, it was really good that he was kept busy w/people while I was gone. Cuz if I hadn't gone, I still would have gone to work & he would have been home alone.

Ok, speaking of work, I best get back to it! Lots of emails to weed through.

I'll try to post tonight...but I haven't done any laundry yet & the house is still a disaster from the painting & such prior to the knee injury!! Agghhh...wish I was still in the Happiest Place on Earth, but I am happy to be back!

Missed you all & hope you had a good week!!
Jen

[Hedy]

Welcome home. Can't wait to hear more!

[linanglab]

Welcome back! Can't wait to see pictures!

[wilsonfamily4]

o, Jen that was just a tease! We have all been awaiting your return! No, I am glad you are back safe and can't wait to hear more. Traci wouldn't tell us anything because you were going to tell it all. She was very good.

[Blessing and Miracle]

Glad you're back, Jen! We missed you and the forum wasn't the same without you!:)

Glad DH is feeling better!

Can't wait to hear about all of the goodies you purchased!:)

[askomsky]

WOW sounds like you had a lot of new expeirences! Glad DH is doing well and was pampered while you were gone. I can't WAIT to see the pics!

[icartjetta]

Jen I'm so glad you finally made it home even if it was 4:00 a.m.!
Dang toilet, couldn't everyone just hold it the whole flight?:rotfl:
I can't wait for your trip report!

[mia214jia]

WB Jen... Glad you had a good time!

[spring]

Thanks for taking the time to give us a preview of good things to come. Can't wait for your TR and pictures. Welcome home!:sunshine:

[lmroyea]

Welcome home Jen! Can't wait to hear more.

[JillyFish]

Oooooh!!! Sounds very intriguing! Can't wait to hear all the details and see all the yummy photos!

[Alice28]

Welcome back Jen! I can't wait to hear all the deets!

[pbhall13]

Welcome back Jen.......cannot wait for your TR

[3dog2kidmom]

Hey Jen!! Welcome home :) I'll look forward to your TR!

[LuvMyBoys]

So looking forward to your report and all the pictures!! :cooldance: It is funny how a trip to WDW can be totally different depending on who you go with! :)

Glad to hear that DH is recovering as well, bet he's glad to have you home! :)

[Magical JenK]

Going to be awhile before I get this really going...thought I'd give you at least this message! :p

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f123866c6200000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

[linanglab]

You got to hold the sign! Cannot wait for the rest!

[pbhall13]

Thanks for the cute photo!!!!

Looking forward to the rest!

Pamela

[disney_girl]

Can't wait for more!! What a fun picture!!

[JillyFish]

Awwwwww!!!! How fun is THAT?? :mickey:

[Magical JenK]

Ok, you all know I'm a photosl*t & this trip was NOOOOOO exception!! Nearly 400 photos for only 5 days!! I've got issues!! Ok, let's get started shall we??


Flight out of MN was at 6am, so I got up at 230am, picked up around the house a little, got ready (or as ready as I possibly could) & was done just in time for my dad to pick me up at 4am. No issues at all w/the flight there, w/the exception I just can NOT sleep on planes...I was so tired & nothing. I was a wiggle worm the entire flight. I couldn't wait until we landed!!

We decided not to do the yellow DME tags & picked up our own luggage...of course it took some time, but at least we had our luggage. We went downstairs to DME & checked in & told to stand in line 3 (I think) & it was the LONGEST line there. The LONGEST & slowest moving! This really should have been a warning sign for me then & there...but NOOOOO...I had faith in my trip! It was going to be great....right?...right!

We arrived at CSR w/no issues at all, our room was ready (Casitas building 1--but later moved to building 4) & we were headed to DTD for lunch at Earl of Sandwich (my first time) & a shopping spree at World of Disney! Woo hoo!

I had the Club Sandwhich & Amy had the Chicken Ceasar wrap. We both chose the cupcake for dessert...check out the size of it compared to my cell phone! I couldn't believe it. I LOVED LOVED LOVED the bread of my sandwhich. I could have eaten only the bread & been totally happy. My sandwich was good, but the bread really made it wonderful! (Sorry in advance, I thought I had a photo of the Chicken Ceasar wrap, but I don't) Also, never did eat the cupcake...brought back to the room, but never was hungry enough to eat it...sad.

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After lunch at Earl's we went to WORLD OF DISNEY!!!! http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f10cb2ade900000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb I have been sooooo looking forward to this shopping trip & shop I did! I got a lot! I mean a lot a lot...and that was only the first stop in our shopping weekend! :0) During the course of the trip I got a few tshirts, a couple sweatshirts (because it was FREEZING!!), a pair of really cute boxers, some PJ pants, some staitionery, a really cool pen, some scissors that make MICKEY HEADS!!, two key chains, a Yeti (for Howie), some pasta, CDs (Fantasmic & Main Street), lord...I bought a lot. Some items were for DH too...but I did buy myself a lot. I have issues...I LOVE Disney items! Especially tshirts!! AND I did get a lot of good deals at the Disney outlet store too..so it really sounds worse than it is. PLUS, I did start to just say no Jenny, you don't NEED it...and I'd put back the super cute 3/4 length sleeve Mickey Ringer Tee (which is my biggest weakness). So I thought I showed some strength there...but that was on Friday...and on Saturday we went to Epcot...well...that will be another post...but let's just say the ONE item that was my mission I finally found...at the airport Disney store! Ha!! I was determined to find that dang thing!! (More on that later).

I'm sure most of the tshirts & two of the sweatshirts you'll see in the photos...I'm just like a little kid...get something new MUST wear it RIGHT AWAY!! So I did.

Ok, so first night is here....off to dinner at Kona Cafe followed by Princess & Pirates Party!!

[lmroyea]

Sounds great so far, can't wait to hear more. Wow, you really DO like to shop, I guess I should prepare myself for the MOA trip!:rotfl:

[fourfoxesinpa]

Oh man, that sandwich looks gooooood!!!! :scarf:

[m 'n c]

Sounds like a blast Jen. Can't wait for more food pictures and disney gear!

[Magical JenK]

Remember, we were both working on VERY little sleep & thought there would be time in between shopping & dinner to shower & rest...but well, we shopped a little too long, & then moved rooms, so I decided no shower...but I'll just buy a cute hat to wear instead. I must say, it was cute!!

Dinner at Kona Cafe was fabulous! I had been there one other time & Amy had never been. We were both very hungry & in desparate need of a few Diet Cokes since we KNEW it was going to be a late night (PPP closed at midnight). We were seated right away & had a FABULOUS server! He was funny & totally on top of Diet Coke refills which is very important to me & Amy!! At one point she even had one "in the wings"!!
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We also got some drinks as we felt they were really needed. I think I got the Mai Tai & Amy got the Bluetini (I think...). Dang, you'd think I was drinking now....I'm not...I promise. Both drinks were good! In the sake of only posting 4 images, I'm cheating on this one & you can see both drinks in this photo...http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f11b4ded8500000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

I ordered the Beef Teriyaki & Amy ordered the Filet Mignon...(my apologies for some of the already eaten food photos--I forgot sometimes)...both came w/yukon gold mashed potatoes...and they were sooooo good. We both loved our meals! Yummm!! Oh & the broccoli was perfect!
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On to desserts....

[Hedy]

Waiting for more.

[disney_girl]

Yay! So far so good!! I LOVE Earl of Sandwich- I knew where that sandwich was right away! drool DH and I dream of owning a franchise. lol Just 12 more days til we get to eat there!!

Can't wait to read more!!

[nurseminnie76]

Great start -- Can't wait to read more! :sunshine:

BTW, I love the sign picture you posted first. Toooo cute.

[Magical JenK]

For dessert I had the Kilauea Torte & Amy had the Banana-Chocolate Creme Brulee. Again, we both very much enjoyed our choices! I love Kona Cafe. It's a very fun, but casual atmposhere & great food. Amy really liked it too. Yay!! A hit!!
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After dessert, we headed over to MK for the PPP!! Now, a little side note to the Party...we were able to get in for FREE!! I had read on the dis that Disney would honor the Sept 14th 2007, MNSSHP tix for a one day MK pass or sometimes PPP tix! Well, since we already had park tix, I contacted them & asked if I could get PPP tix. A very nice CM contacted me & gave me the info on what to do (bring the MNSSHP tix & my client profile number). It was so easy & painless & FREE!! And best part...it didn't rain! :0)

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I'm soooo glad we went! At first I was a little amprehensive because of the MNSSHP experience I had...but it was the best! Very little crowds, great weather (oh wait, it was FREEZING...I had to go buy a sweatshirt to wear because it was so dang cold...everyone was cold, everyone was buying sweatshirts, everyone was wearing the SAME SWEATSHIRT!! It was pretty funny!! But they were really picked over so I had to settle for a XXXL...but it kept me warm & that's ALL that mattered!!) This was the only night we were able to do everything we wanted to do at MK!! (I still can't believe how busy it was the rest of the time we were there...ugh. More on that later.)

Time for another post for more photos....

[Magical JenK]

This was the trip of many firsts....for example, FIRST Disney trip w/o DH, FIRST PPP, FIRST time ever seeing the fireworks in FRONT of the castle! DH & I seem to have the worst luck when it comes to seeing the fireworks straight on! :0) While the parade was going on, I was shopping (ahhh warmth) & when it was over many people left. Well we were RIGHT in front of the castle! I LOVED these fireworks! The "battle" scene was amazing! Sadly, I didn't get that part on video, but I was able to get some photos & a video for DH to see the fireworks straight on! It was AMAZING!!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f11506edc900000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb Cute hat don't you think? Does it look like I've been up nearly 20 hours at this point?? Nahhhh...it's the hat! I swear!! :0)

They may not have turned out clear, but I still like them!
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After fireworks we headed to Future World & found a character stop of Mickey, Pluto, Donald & Goofy all in Pirate gear! Soooo cute! Those are on photopass, so I'll post those another time if you'd like. But know the costumes they were wearing were so cute!

After photos, we rode some rides....like...our faves....

[Magical JenK]

Tea Cups of course!! :0) Well it's MY favorite, not Amy's....Sadly, only time I rode it this trip. But that's ok. It was great fun!

Amy's fave rides are the Haunted Mansion & Pirates...she's a HUGE Pirates fan & did the photo spot w/Captain Jack Sparrow while I was on a sweatshirt mission! (See, we TOTALLY got each other this trip...she wanted to meet Jack, I wanted warmth...we just split up & did our thing & then met back up!! PERFECT!) Anyway, Cpt Jack photos are AMAZING!! Those are also on the photopass so I'll post those another day if you like.

Did a few more rides & then it was midnight. Time to do some more shopping while they closed the park!! :0) Then we also did some more photopass photos in front of the castle at night. They're funny...you can tell we are soooo tired. But then we did our own photoshoot...again, FIRST time I've ever had these photos taken!! That other photo I posted earlier today...I've NEVER seen those signs/people before! I LOVED that!! But I won't repost the photo to spare you boredom of photos of me again! But I want to know...who else has seen them before!! Are they just there very late into the night?? I guess we've never been there that late before!

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[disney_girl]

Love that last castle photo!!! What was the temperature like for the trip??

[Magical JenK]

Love that last castle photo!!! What was the temperature like for the trip??

Thanks! I was pretty proud of myself w/that one!! :p

Wed & Thurs NO humidity, high 60s in the day, sunny, but windy. At night probably 50s...but I packed for HOT humid weather...like I'm used to. I'm not normally a freeze baby, but dang, once that sun went down I was crying like a 5 year old. Nothing $60 can't fix though!! :rotfl:

Fri-Sun HUMID :love: & mid to high 80s, sunny during the day. At night, probably 60s-70s...it was LOVELY!!

[lmroyea]

I also LOVE the castle photo. (Maybe you should blow it up, frame it, and sell it on ebay:rotfl:)
We had always gone to WDW, and mostly in the summer, so hot, humid, sticky is definitely the weather you're gonna get. I was shocked when we went to DL in 2006. We were actually in Vegas in June 2006, and it was 90-100 everyday. We rented a car to drive to DL one day and we were FREEZING when the sun wasn't even down yet. Mom and I both got new sweatshirts that day! I think Disney makes their $ on bad weather...ex. the regular tshirts aren't that bad, but ponchos, sweatshirts, umbrellas, jackets, they're all very expensive...hummmm, just a thought.

Anyways, love the TR so far, and LOVE all the pictures. I'm bad about taking pictures, but I like to see them, so thank you, and let us know where to see the photopass. Just waiting for more. When do you meet up with Janet and Traci?

[spring]

Great TR, Jen! Can't wait for the next installment!

[linanglab]

You have me on the edge of my seat! Can't wait for more!

And I have to say...you do look GREAT in your cute hat! Hats and ears....gotta love them!

[Magical JenK]

And I have to say...you do look GREAT in your cute hat! Hats and ears....gotta love them!

It's a gift...I look good in hats!! :rotfl:

[Magical JenK]

When do you meet up with Janet and Traci?
Not until the 2nd to last day...sorry! I'll try to make my TR shorter so we can get there faster as I'm only on day one!! :rotfl:

[LuvMyBoys]

Great TR so far, although I was a little concerned with the beginning.....you made it sound like there might be rough water ahead!! :confused:

Can't wait to read and see more! :)

[Hedy]

The PPP looks like fun.

[pbhall13]

Jen...

loving this! thanks for the food pictures (I do it too, and the people who are usually with me just roll their eyes!) Loved the banana creme brulee that your friend had (just had that in march)...really good.

Great pictures.........isn't it great when it's not that crowded and you can get some pictures that you don't normally get to take!!

Pamela

[Magical JenK]

Day Two...
After we slept in just a bit (we didn't get to bed until 2am...nearly 24 hours after I got up...uggg) we headed to Animal Kingdom. We really just wanted to do Expedition Everest, have some lunch & do the safari. The wait for EE was 70 min I think...this was my first taste of the rest of the week! I couldn't believe it! 70 min?! The FP was either already out or much later than we knew we would be there (headed to MK for the night). I'm used to 20 min...that are actually more like 10. This was quite a shock. A lot of my photos are of the crowds I just needed to show DH. He wasn't going to believe it either!!

Anyway, we did the single ride line for EE. I've never rode like that before. DH & I always sit by each other, so this was another FIRST!! :0) But I did it & it was fun! I tried to take photos while on it...some turned out, others did not!
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When we were done w/EE, another FIRST appeared....barely...Devine!! She's so good! I couldn't believe it! I didn't get the best photos of her, but I did get to see her & that was cool!
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Did Tough to be a Bug & then got a fast pass for the safari & headed to lunch. Ate at Pizzafari (another FIRST). It was really good!

[Magical JenK]

I had the pepperoni pizza & Amy had the cheese pizza. We both got the apple pie for dessert.
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I really liked the crust of the pizza, but didn't care too much for the sauce. It was really tangy. But it was still good. Amy loved her pizza & we both LOVED the apple pie! Dang that thing was good! But my biggest surprise w/eating at AK this time is the STRAWS!!! I was soooooo excited to see that they now allow special biodegradable straws! I NEED straws w/my diet coke & AK used to not allow straws...we were told because of the animals. So color me happy! I got a large diet coke & a straw!
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Ahhh the little things in life! :0)

After lunch we had some time before the safari, so we decided to check out the shops...real surprise I'm sure! I found a lot of stuff there & Amy found the hat she wanted that we didn't find at WOD the day before! We were both happy!! Another successful shopping experience!! Ha!! Come on..when isn't a Disney shopping experience successful when I'm involved?!

After shopping we decided we were ready to go & didn't want to do the safari. So while we were leaving we found a couple just coming into the park & asked them if they were going to do the safari today. They had no idea what it was & I said, well here, go check it out!! Our fast pass was starting in about 5 min & good for one hour. I hope they did it & had a good time!!

AK isn't my favorite park, but I do like it. What I don't like is that for whatever reason people cannot figure out how to walk there. Groups of 6 were walking side-by-side so no one could move. Then BAM! They stop in the middle of whatever path we were on. And don't get me started on crowds & strollers! I've never used a stroller & I'm sure it's beyond frustrating to try to manuever it w/a large crowd, so maybe I'm dense, but I just feel badly for the kids in the stroller when the parents are trying to push the stroller through the crowd...umm..the kids are right there...butt level of all these hot sweaty people! GROSS! Plus, settle down we're all going to get out of there, no need to keep hitting me on the back of my legs w/your stroller. But again...this was just my first taste of the whole crowd thing & it was warm...(still not humid though), so maybe I was just a bit testy...but I doubt that was it...

Back to the room to get ready for Magic Kingdom & dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern....

[icartjetta]

Great TR Jen, I love the food pictures!
Does anybody remember when MK only had those paper straws? You would get done with about half of your drink and they would almost melt. The paper straw has come a long way!:rotfl:

[linanglab]

I am SO glad that they now have straws at AK! That always bugged me that they didn't have them....I understand the reasoning, but I like my straws!

And you got to see Divine! Haven't seen her yet! Hope to next year!

That pizza looked pretty good....I am getting a bit hungry....Is it lunch time yet?

[wilsonfamily4]

but I just feel badly for the kids in the stroller when the parents are trying to push the stroller through the crowd...umm..the kids are right there...butt level of all these hot sweaty people! GROSS! ..

We gave our kids disposable cameras last time we went. Most of the pictures are of bottoms and feet. :) They were in strollers some of the time and those were the times they used the cameras! Thankfully it was never MY bottom. No need to see what it really looked like in WDW. :rotfl:

[askomsky]

Oh jen I'm so enjoying your experience!!!!! I don't like crowds either, when we went in Nov the first half we waited no more then 10 mins to board a ride then the 3 days before Thanksgiving it was 70 mins! Thankfully we got to ride all the ones we wanted (several times!) during the MVMCP and the first few days we were there. I swore to DH when we go back it won't be during a busy season!

We purposely left the stroller at home, just turned 4 DD didn't appreciate it much by the 3rd day of parking and hopping on the tram car she was crying my legs hurt and we had just gotten there! But I was proud of all the kids bc they lasted and walked all day each day and was able to "hang".... :)

[lmroyea]

AK isn't my favorite park, but I do like it. What I don't like is that for whatever reason people cannot figure out how to walk there. Groups of 6 were walking side-by-side so no one could move. Then BAM! They stop in the middle of whatever path we were on. And don't get me started on crowds & strollers! I've never used a stroller & I'm sure it's beyond frustrating to try to manuever it w/a large crowd, so maybe I'm dense, but I just feel badly for the kids in the stroller when the parents are trying to push the stroller through the crowd...umm..the kids are right there...butt level of all these hot sweaty people! GROSS! Plus, settle down we're all going to get out of there, no need to keep hitting me on the back of my legs w/your stroller. But again...this was just my first taste of the whole crowd thing & it was warm...(still not humid though), so maybe I was just a bit testy...but I doubt that was it...

Back to the room to get ready for Magic Kingdom & dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern....

I completely agree. Something about the way the park is laid out, people don't seem to have a sense of direction. I always seem to feel really sick there too. It usually feels hotter than the other parks, and I think the combo of heat and smells just gets to me.

[deana]

Jen, great report so far!!! Can't wait to hear more! Did you ever eat at Boma? (just noticed an older post when you said you might be going there...) Curious how you thought it was.

[askomsky]

I completely agree. Something about the way the park is laid out, people don't seem to have a sense of direction. I always seem to feel really sick there too. It usually feels hotter than the other parks, and I think the combo of heat and smells just gets to me.

Same here, it was our least favorite bc of the layout and honestly were members of the Phila Zoo which is the oldest zoo and has great habitats. I felt like it wasn't as good as our zoo in the sense of seeing hte animals.

[Magical JenK]

Once we arrived for our evening at MK, I immediately stopped & looked for Janet, Dude's & my brick! Guess what!! We're all brick neighbors! If you look at this photo, Janet's brick is in the foreground & Amy's foot is on my brick & Dude's is right in the middle! So fun! SR Brick Neighbors!!

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We wanted to ride Space Mountain, but the wait was 40 min...didn't feel like waiting that long. So then we saw this REALLY long line...
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For the TRANSIT AUTHORITY!!?? We were so confused!! But it turns out they had it shut down for some reason for a little bit. Ha!! After we did ride the Transit Authority (which I love), we headed towards the Tea Cups...http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f16526edd100000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb nope too long of a wait...the Haunted Mansion...nope too long...Thunder Mountain...nope too long...so then we decided to just wait for dinner at Liberty Tree.

[Magical JenK]

As always, Liberty Tree Tavern is one of my favorite meals! Amy's too, so we were both very much looking forward to this meal. She doesn't care for the mac n' cheese (WHAT?!) so it was ALLLLLL MIIIIINNNNEEEE!! Everything was tasty! Wonderful salad w/the best cherry tomatoes ever! Rolls w/honey butter!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17864ad0500000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f178ceadaf00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb
Turkey, Beef, Ham (which I don't care for), stuffing, mac n' cheese, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans...ahhh I could totally go for that meal again!! There was apple crisp for dessert, but totally forgot to take the photo...but know it was G-O-O-D!!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17f346cfe00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

And while everything was JUST as I expected & remembered & soooo good...something didn't sit well with me & the only thing that I ate that Amy didn't was the mac n' cheese....hmmm??? Not sure...but the rest of the night I was the proud finder of many a bathroom!! :0) (Sorry if that was TMI, but we're all friends right?!)

Well after dinner we had planned on watching the Spectromagic Parade & Wishes since this was the only night they were going to be done while we were there. Well we decided instead to...shop...well not really, we mostly just kinda hid in the pin shop (Amy collects pins!!) in Frontier Land while the parade was going on & then made our way towards Future Land to ride Space Mountain...can't be THAT long of a wait right?? WRONG!!

We could barely get through to Future World because there were soooo many people!! It was almost scary how crowded it was. The CMs were directing people & stopping crowds at points to allow the cross "traffic" filter through...one CM was saying that it gets like this because people are leaving from the parade & others are coming to get a seat for Wishes & yet others (like us) were trying to get to the other side of the park...WOW! At least they knew how to control it, but many people were freaking out...shoving strollers into the back of my legs of course, trying to keep w/the rest of their group, etc...

[Magical JenK]

I know this probably isn't new to many of you, but it was to me & I just couldn't help but take photos...
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17d636ca800000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17d716cba00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17dbf6c7400000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17347edbb00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

In some of the photos you can see the CMs using their blue glow sticks directing the traffic...I still can't get over it. I'm sure it's busy like this in the summer, but I honestly wasn't expecting it. It was like being at a concert or a ball game & everyone is trying to get out the door at the same time...

Well, needless to say, we didn't get on Space Mountain...too long of a line, we walked around some more during Wishes (my favorite, but was totally ok missing them--kinda weird, but they are "DH's & mine"--just not the same watching them w/Amy for some reason) & then just decided to head out.

Quite a crazy night...not much accomplished at all...oh I think we did ride Pirates once...walked right on...but that was it...oh well.

Oooh next day is Friday...we rented a car (sorry Traci), went to the outlet mall, did some more shopping...mostly at the Character Outlet & then headed over to Downtown Disney for more shopping (and a few returns/exchanges).

Then for lunch we took the boat from DTD to POFQ & had lunch there! It was so fun! Had a hot dog (totally craving one) & beneigts...sooo good!! We had dinner plans at Boma that night so after lunch, we took the boat back to DTD, drove the car back to CSR & relaxed after a HEFTY day of shopping & made some phone calls home!!

Decided to drive to AKL since we had the car & put a whopping 15 miles on it!! I like driving around Disney...I totally feel like I belong there...makes me feel like I could live there & be no problem at all!!

Ok, next installment...dinner at Boma!!

[wilsonfamily4]

Yuck, who likes crowds. I was thinking about trying Liberty Tee but I am not sure after your "problem." :)

[Magical JenK]

Yuck, who likes crowds. I was thinking about trying Liberty Tee but I am not sure after your "problem." :)

Oh no Dee! Still go there! I'd still TOTALLY recommend it! This is the first time in 5 different times eating there that I've had a problem!! It's sooo yummy I didn't really care too much...ok, I did, but still...it didn't last too long!!:p

[Hedy]

What did you get at the character outlet?

[Magical JenK]

What did you get at the character outlet?

Oooh Heather...what DIDN'T I get?! :angel: Hmmm...I got 2 t-shirts (one that has the dates of when the parks open...I always liked that one & it's long sleeved so I love it!! the other Tshirt I wore the night I met Janet & Traci...you can see the photo in Janet's TR), 2 pairs of PJ pants (one for me, one for DH...they have little mickeys all over them), & 1 sweatshirt (also worn the night I met the girls)....I think that was it...:blush:

Elsewhere in the outlet mall I bought a pair of navy chuck taylors (not that I couldn't buy those at home--duh jenny) but I LOVE them!!

[Blessing and Miracle]

Jen, love, love, your TR! Sounds like you had a wonderful time! Great pictures and that one of the castle, oh my, it's awesome! None of my night pics of the castle came out good.:(

The crowds were worse than that last July, not to mention the heat!!! The news weather man said it was record breaking! Well over 100 degrees each day, but well worth it. :)


Can't wait to read more!

[arob414]

I love Liberty Tree Tavern :love: , it is one of must have to sit downs. I really need a roll and honey butter, right now.

[Magical JenK]

Our ressie for Boma was at 705pm...we arrived at 615 thinking we'd stroll the lobby & such since neither of us had been to AKL before. However, we were seated right away!! That was a nice surprise. We went downstairs & found the hostess stand & they brought us back & back & back...we were literally the furtherest seat in the house!! Ha!! It was kinda funny, but it was really nice because while the restaurant was busy, at least we didn't have anyone walking past us a thousand times to get to the food!

Here are some photos of the food.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f1776c6ca200000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f176a42cf200000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f28af3cd3f00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f28b940cf000000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

My comments on the food...I wasn't sure I would like much on the menu. However, I was surprised at what I did & what I didn't like! I LOVED the pasta salad, which was full of mustard I'm guessing & I HATE mustard. I LOVED the hummus & these cracker things, I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the Chicken & Corn Chowder soup! Ooh & I LOVED the corn bread...although it wasn't called corn bread...but I'm certain that's what it was...African Corn Bread! :0)

My surprise was that I didn't care for the prime rib at all. I love prime rib! But this stuff had too much of a smokey flavor for me. Now, Amy on the other hand, LOVED the prime rib! I guess it all depends on what you like & what you don't. There was still plenty I did like & I had plenty to eat. There was pulled pork & chicken too....I liked both of those.

Now for the desserts...you know those Zebra Domes everyone always raves about...I was sooooo ready to love them....but I didn't. They were just ok, nothing I'd come back for that's for sure! I'd rather have the soup or hummus!! :0) But to each their own. We both tasted coconut (& as many others have said we hate coconut, but LOVE Somoas Girl Scout Cookies!!!), & we figured it was the liquor that's in them....Malibu Rum maybe?? Probably not as that's not very Africian themed, but at any rate, we both thought they were just ok. I would, however, have that little cheesecake in the middle of the plate...it was pineapple upsidedown cheesecake...YUMMMM
Now THAT was good!!

After dinner we walked around the lobby & outside! It was very cool!

[Magical JenK]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f1774dedb300000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f17094adf100000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

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Oh another thing I didn't really like...as with many buffets...there really wasn't a good "flow" to the stations....the carving station was at one end, then it was some sides, then the soups, then the salads, fruits, then breads, but then desserts....just didn't flow right so while you could make a line at the carving station, the rest you kinda just butt in line...odd.

After dinner we walked the grounds, saw the animals & decided it was time to head back to the resort to take the bus to Epcot for some shopping. See, we had a plan...we KNEW we were going to Epcot Saturday afternoon, but we also knew we were going to want to shop...but I REALLY wanted to do World Showcase. So our theory was...go to Epcot while Illuminations was going on & shop MouseGears & then when we go to Epcot on Saturday we'd have our shopping over....we're so smart!!

It worked out really well...until I found THE item I MUST have & of course MouseGears didn't have it in my size...so we knew, just knew Saturday would be some shopping involved...oh darn!! (I'd put an angel smiley here if I could!!)

[linanglab]

That chicken corn soup looks YUMMY! And the combo of cheesecake and pineapple would have been heavenly! YUM! We might have to try Boma's next time we visit WDW. How much is it? I cannot remember prices from the website.

[Sunni]

Wow Jen! I have really enjoyed reading your TR. Thank you for sharing your wonderful pics. The food all looks so delicious. It sounded like a very busy and fun trip. I would love all that shopping. I can't wait to hear more.........especially that one item.?????

[disney_girl]

Still enjoying your TR!! And I agree that soup looks sooooooo good! Yum!

[spring]

Wow, Jen, you managed to get a lot done so far in a few short days! I LOVE your TR. Keep it coming!:sunshine:

[Magical JenK]

Ok, our plan for Saturday was drop off car at Dolphin, take boat to Studios, do RnRCoaster since it was down in September, ToT for Amy & Muppets 3D because I've never seen it as DH has a big ol' phobia of Muppets!! :0) THEN after we do our MUSTS at Studios, take the boat over to Epcot & enter through the International Gateway (another FIRST) for World Showcase fun & then onto dinner w/Traci & meeting w/Janet after dinner...busy, busy day!!

We arrived at Studios at 930am...it had EMH in the morning that day so it had been open since 8am. We headed to RnR & were greeted w/a shock (which really shouldn't have been a shock considering...)
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2807d4c8400000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb
The wait for RnR was 40 min! Fast pass time was 1250-150...which we knew we weren't going to be there for. I couldn't believe how busy it was again! The park hasn't been open long?! You know in the Unofficial Guide they're always saying to avoid parks w/EMH in the morning because it's going to be packed ALL day!? I never understood that, but they are soooo right. Use the EMH to your advantage & then LEAVE!! That night MK was so crazy was an EMH morning too!

Anyway, we opted for the Single Rider line again which was a nice 20 min!! I LOVE this ride! I was VERY happy to ride!! :0) While we were in line we found out that at EMH opening EVERYONE went to RnR & they were told it was not working yet, so then EVERYONE went to ToT instead & then went back to RnR. So when we got out of RnR Amy wanted to ride ToT, but again the wait was 50 min but they don't have a Single Rider line at that one, so she passed. She'll be back in December too so she was ok with it. And I must say, knowing that I was going to be back rather soon I was totally ok w/not doing a lot of things!! Kinda fun & doesn't take the magic out of not doing everything that time you know??

Did Muppets 3D...DH would have hated it!! :0) I thought it was cute & am glad I finally saw it (another FIRST)! Then onto the boat we went.

Arrived in Epcot & of course in the little shop right there is THE item....background:
for almost 4 years I have LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the Epcot Mickey shirt:
http://www.laughingplacestore.com/images/products/5612M.jpg One year I even went as far as trying it on & thinking it was cute, but I'd prefer a longer sleeve...those dang junior sizes!! Well this year, my mission, THE item, was a lightweight hoodie sweatshirt w/those Mickeys ALL over it! At Mousegears the largest they had was a M...I didn't even bother...I KNEW it wasn't going to fit....those dang junior sizes!!

Well anyway, we arrive at Epcot & what do I see?? THE sweatshirt! Right there! Waiting for me! But alas it was another M...and the only other sizes they had were smaller than that...so my eyes were peeled the rest of the day looking for that dang thing...never did find my size. :0(

Another first & something that I've always wanted to try was the Fish & Chips in England! And this trip I got to!! Yay!! They were quite good! We got a nice little table outside & were able to sit & enjoy the long awaited fish & chips. On the dining plan I could get shortbread or something else...I chose the shortbread, but never did end up eating it. HUGE thumbs up for my fish & chips!!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2bf800cfe00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

After lunch in England, we headed over to France to enjoy a yummy treat! I had the Napoleon & it was just as good as I remembered from a few years ago! That custard is YUMMMY!! This is a snack credit btw!!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2cabc4c6000000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

[linanglab]

So hope you get that shirt you want! I KNOW how it is to find something you want and NEVER find it. If I am going shopping "just because" I find 1000 things I want. If I am looking for a particular item - cannot find it.

Loving your TR!

[Hedy]

Sounds like fun. Having done free dining previously, what do you think of the new DDP?

[askomsky]

LOVING IT!!!!!! I'm so enjoying your report, but not the crowds, I really feel for you!

[Magical JenK]

Sounds like fun. Having done free dining previously, what do you think of the new DDP?

Oh thanks Heather! I've been meaning to post on that....I have been on the dining plan before so this was my first time being on the plan w/o appetizers & tips included. I must say, it was painless and the FIRST time I didn't gain any weight on my trip!! :rotfl: Must have been those appetizers!!

But honestly, I did miss some of my faves, but it was totally ok since that was A LOT of food for one person before. As for the tips, yes it was much more convenient before when it was included, but we'd always tip more anyway. I'm sure many of you have been paying attention to the disboards & probably already knew this, but on your receipt they actually calculate what 15% and 20% would be...no math involved!:p (Amy took a photo of that...I can post if you like.) Which I thought was rather nice. I did see at a few restaurants there was a little blurb about what is common practice on leaving a tip & that was in multiple languages.

Another first for me this trip was putting a CC on file to use the room key as payment. For the tips/drinks I thought this was ideal & soooooo painless! I may have to insist on doing this come December, but DH is always a little leary of anything when he hears the words "credit card." However, we did run into one little issue that I didn't even notice until I got home & honestly am surprised it didn't happen more than once....one of the counter service meals was charged to the room rather than off the dining plan.

We never looked at the room charges prior to check out since they just can charge it & you can leave....easy pleasy...well this is probably why I won't do that again if I ever charge to the room! :) I noticed it after I was going through all the receipts. So I sent an email to the address on the sheet & was contacted in less than 24 hours & they said no problem, we're crediting back your account! Now THAT was painless!

Funny thing that I'm sure you all will appreciate...on the email back to me the CM stated "It is our hope that you will return to the Walt Disney World Resort, and that your future visits will be filled with special memories." :rotfl:

I wrote back & said, have no fear we will be back!! :0)

[askomsky]

LOL that's funny Jen bc I knew your response back to him before I even read it!

[zoodoyle]

OK......... a Muppet phobia?!!??!! My love for Disney is only second to my love for Jim Henson!!!! In fact, just got home from buying a new "Animal" shirt at Kohl's. :love: The Muppet 3D show is a must for me. What can I do to help ease this phobia? :p

BTW, loving the TR - looking forward to trying Boma dinner ourselves in August!

[chipndale]

Great trip report - looking forward to reading more!

[linanglab]

Oh Jen...I am SOOO disappointed! I have found our difference! I do NOT like the muppets. Never have.....I guess I can overlook it if you can! LOL

[Hedy]

FWIW, you can charge to the room and pay it off in Disney dollars. Just go to the desk. :)

[Magical JenK]

FWIW, you can charge to the room and pay it off in Disney dollars. Just go to the desk. :)

Oh yes, I knew I could pay it at the desk rather than on the card...but see if it's on the card I GET Disney Rewards for my next trip!! :rotfl: Boy did I rack them in this month!! We put everything on the room & then Amy just paid me...NICE!!

[lmroyea]

Jen, I can't believe 2 of your 1st's are 2 of my MUST DO's! Muppet Show is an absolute must for me (sorry Angela) and of course, fish and chips in England! They're my absolute favorite and we can't have a single trip without them. My other fav used to be CS in Japan, BEST chicken and beef skewers I've EVER had in my life. But when we went in Sept. and I was all excited for DH to finally try, they had changed :( Chicken was still excellent, but no more beef cubes, it was more like a shredded pile with other stuff in it. Oh well, everything changes right? Unfortunately, us WDW fans are NOT fans of change :rotfl:

[disney_girl]

Yumm.... the fish and chips is definitely a MUST do for me as well!! So, is the sweatshirt just like the one you posted? What size should we be on the lookout for??:) Have to agree on the one you posted- I really like that shirt, but not the sleeves!

[icartjetta]

Jen, Where is the rest? Janet, will be done before you.


Love the TR and I am learning how this whole DDP works!

[Magical JenK]

After our YUMMY snacks we walked around the WS. I just love looking at all the different countries. And while we did pass through & didn't take TOO much time there, I was still happy!! I love WS!

Amy had watched the Samantha Brown's favorites & tried the Grey Goose slushy...she thought it was good, but not good enough for $8...oh well.
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Amy's one request for the whole trip was to do an clam & get a pearl. We went to Japan & she picked hers out...she had a very hard time finding "the" one...she had heard the smaller the clam the bigger the pearl..
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2cc114cce00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2cd790c3e00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

Well her theory did pan out...she got a verryyyyyy bbiiiiiiiiiiiigggggg onnnneeeee as the CM told us.
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Amy decided not to get it set just yet, but she'll be back in December!!

We did the updated Mexico boat ride & the Malstrom. Amy had never done either! So that was HER first!! After we did the countries we strolled through some nice vendors...and of course did some shopping...didn't mean to, but there was this one vendor Larry Doston & he had the most beautiful prints of paintings he's done of various Disney resorts/parks/etc. I ended up getting one of the castle in Canada where LeCellier is...it's sooo pretty, Amy got one of the Haunted Manison. He was there & I asked him if he had any of Main Street or POFQ...he didn't, but both are on his list. He took my email address & will let me know when those will be available! I'm very excited!! He also said that by December he hopes to have his work in both DTD & Epcot...that art store in Epcot you know?? Anyway, I LOVE it!

[Magical JenK]

After our little bout of imromptu shopping, we headed back to the resort to get ready for our SR dinner date w/Traci. Oh but what's ahead?? Oh yes, it's the Flower & Garden festival...can't leave w/o taking some photos of that can we? Here's my favorite:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2db258d5900000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

Ok, now to the MEET UP!! Met Traci at Spoodles on the Boardwalk! We had been texting all day so she knew what I was wearing...easier to pick me out that way rather than yelling JEN! JEN!! Where are you JEN!! :0) None of us had been to Spoodles & it was PACKED! Thank goodness we had ADRs! We got seated pretty fast as we said we'd be ok w/sitting outside. It was a nice night out & people watching was fun. Our view
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We had some drinks http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2df460c0800000015110EbuHDhq1Zsb & then proceeded to have dinner over more laughs...oh wait, I hadn't mentioned that yet?! Traci is sooo funny! Now, remember Amy was with us & she's not a SR member (gasp!) but we all felt totally comfortable w/each other & while I was getting a SR forum update for most of the dinner we all had so much fun & laughed a lot!!

Traci ordered the cheese flatbread, I had the rigatoni & Amy had the pork chop. I really liked my rigatoni, Amy liked her pork chop...but not the beans that came w/it & Traci...well, I'll let her comment on her flatbread because she's reading this TR just like you!! :0)

No worries...photos of food to come in next post....ran out of room here.

[Magical JenK]

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For dessert, Traci passed (no wonder she's so dang skinny), but I had cheesecake & Amy had the balklava. My cheesecake was so-so & Amy liked her balkava, but not the fruits that came with it:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d227cdc700000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

[Magical JenK]

Ok, now the meet...after dinner Traci's DH & DD met us on the Boardwalk (they were at Epcot watching the Beatles in England) we drove over to SSR to meet Janet! Poor Janet! She was so tired & here we were wanting to be entertained! But being the gracious host that she is, she gave us a tour of her "home"

Of course I had to take a photo of the gift shop:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d31b8d6300000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

And aren't the light fixtures Janet picked out just delightful?? She's got great taste:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d3940cdc00000015110EbuHDhq1Zsb

The pool was lovely, it was dark out, but we were able to still look at it!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d3bd8dc500000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

Then we went inside & had some drinks outside of the Turf Club. It was a lot of fun & there were lots of laughs & some drinking involved. Everyone had a great time!

I must say I was a bit nervous about meeting Traci & Janet simply because I've never met anyone from the internet before!! YIKES!! j/k of course I wasn't worried about them being serial killers or anything, but what if we didn't "click" in real life you know?! Well NO worries there at all! Janet & Traci (& her DH & DD) were just as great in person as I expected & much, much more fun! I cannot wait for the MOA July meet up!! I owe Janet at least 2 drinks...and it's going to be so much fun to meet other SR members!! Can't wait!!

After we basically got kicked out of the "not really a bar" outside of Turf Club, we giggled our way out & to the car. Said good byes to Janet & then Traci & her great family were kind enough to bring Amy & I back to CSR! How nice is that? We totally could have gone to DTD to hop a bus back to CSR, but they brought us "home"!! Soooo nice!

After some hugs & good byes & listening to Kylie telling me I should come over to her house for the night, we left & made plans for December!! :0) It'll be here before we know it Traci!!

Once back at the resort, Amy & I packed :0( so we would be ready for our checkout & our 'Ohana ADR in the morning!!

Ok, good night all! Last day coming up!!

[lmroyea]

Still a great TR Jen. I know what you mean about being nervous, I kind of feel that way about MOA. I know I have nothing to worry about, I'm sure we'll all get along great, but you still kind of worry. At least you've met Janet now. Guess it's just gonna be me and Angela who are new to this. (Have you ever done a meet before Angela?) Well, I'm enjoying your TR and glad you guys had such a great meet.

[deana]

Great trip report Jen! It is 330 in the morning (I am at work :() and your food photos are making me hungry!! :eat:

[linanglab]

Can't wait for the last day! And Lisa - I have never done a meet before either. I am a bit nervous about it! Not that I think you all are crazies! LOL But the whole "clicking" thing. But hey, we are all SR members! What's not to like, right?

[pbhall13]

great TR Jen........oh that drink at Spoodles looks soooo good!

Pamela

[icartjetta]

Skinny???????? Love ya Jen.

[ligrumpygirl]

Amy had watched the Samantha Brown's favorites & tried the Grey Goose slushy...she thought it was good, but not good enough for $8...oh well.

WE HAD THE ORANGE ONES AND LOVED THEM!!

but there was this one vendor Larry Doston & he had the most beautiful prints of paintings he's done of various Disney resorts/parks/etc. I ended up getting one of the castle in Canada where LeCellier is...it's sooo pretty, Amy got one of the Haunted Manison. He was there & I asked him if he had any of Main Street or POFQ...he didn't, but both are on his list. He took my email address & will let me know when those will be available! I'm very excited!! He also said that by December he hopes to have his work in both DTD & Epcot...that art store in Epcot you know?? Anyway, I LOVE it!

LOVE THIS GUY ALSO! I HAVE A MEXICAN PAVILION ONE BC WE GOT ENGAGED THERE. JUST BOUGHT A CASTLE ONE AND ILLUMINATIONS ONE. ASKED ABOUT A SSR ONE.

Ok, now the meet...after dinner Traci's DH & DD met us on the Boardwalk (they were at Epcot watching the Beatles in England) we drove over to SSR to meet Janet! Poor Janet! She was so tired & here we were wanting to be entertained! But being the gracious host that she is, she gave us a tour of her "home".

YES MY HOME AWAY HOME - I LOVE TO SHARE!



And aren't the light fixtures Janet picked out just delightful?? She's got great taste:

I TRY TO PLEASE EVERYBODY.



I must say I was a bit nervous about meeting Traci & Janet simply because I've never met anyone from the internet before!! YIKES!! j/k of course I wasn't worried about them being serial killers or anything, (NO JUST A LITTLE STRANGE!)but what if we didn't "click" in real life you know?! (THEN I WOULD HAVE LEFT YOU WITH THE CHECK AS I SLIPPED AWAY TO THE LADIES ROOM :rotfl: )Well NO worries there at all! Janet & Traci (& her DH & DD) were just as great in person as I expected & much, much more fun! I cannot wait for the MOA July meet up!! I owe Janet at least 2 drinks...and it's going to be so much fun to meet other SR members!! Can't wait!! ME TOO!!

After we basically got kicked out of the "not really a bar" outside of Turf Club, we giggled our way out & to the car. (FIRST TIME THAT I WAS EVER ASKED TO LEAVE A "SORT OF BAR"!)

After some hugs & good byes & listening to Kylie telling me I should come over to her house for the night, we left & made plans for December!! :0) It'll be here before we know it Traci!!
IF YOU HAD GONE, YOU COULD HAVE SEEN THE CHA-CHA SHOE COLLECTION!

[Hedy]

What fun! :sunshine2:

[linanglab]

I would love a painting or 2. How much are they? I have a Disney spare bedroom, but it isn't very Disneyish yet. Some nice prints would help!

[ligrumpygirl]

I bought 5x7 prints - they were $20 each. I think the larger ones were $45?

[Magical JenK]

And he even had bigger ones & real paintings...beautiful!! Here's his website:
http://www.larrydotson.com/

Not sure what, if anything, he has on the site as he told me that he couldn't post any photos of what he does for Disney due to copyrights, but they are beautiful!! I could take a photo of mine & send it to you if you'd like...but I don't want to get him in trouble so I won't post it here...


Janet-Which one did you get? I LOVED the Castle w/the Christmas Tree, but I really can't wait for one of Main Street!

AND...he puts hidden mickeys in them!! FUN! He was the nicest guy & he even signed mine...Jen-Disney Memories! Larry Dotson!

Oh & they're matted already!

[ligrumpygirl]

And he even had bigger ones & real paintings...beautiful!! Here's his website:
http://www.larrydotson.com/

Not sure what, if anything, he has on the site as he told me that he couldn't post any photos of what he does for Disney due to copyrights, but they are beautiful!! I could take a photo of mine & send it to you if you'd like...but I don't want to get him in trouble so I won't post it here...


Janet-Which one did you get? I LOVED the Castle w/the Christmas Tree, but I really can't wait for one of Main Street!

AND...he puts hidden mickeys in them!! FUN! He was the nicest guy & he even signed mine...Jen-Disney Memories! Larry Dotson!

Oh & they're matted already!

You can see a lot of the pictures on his website - in a "tricky" way.

I have one of Mexico already - that is where we got engaged. I just bought the castle one and the Illuminations one. DH LOVED the xmas one also but we don't go at that time of the year so I didn't want to get it.

We are going back in July and he will be in EPCOT again - I wil check out if he has anything new.

I didn't know the hidden mickey thing - now I have to go check!

[eaglesdare]

LOVED reading your trip report! gets me ready for jun 15th!

[Magical JenK]

Ok, LAST day...:0(

We woke up in plenty of time to not rush & shower, get to check in for the flight, check our bags, give bell services our carryons, then to catch the bus to MK for our 'Ohana ADR breakfast...or so we thought....

When we got to the airline/bag check in at CSR, we had 30 min before I wanted to catch the bus to MK...PLENTY of time. HOWEVER, the family in front of us & the ONE person working the flight/bag check in did not feel the same way. There were at least 5 family members, but only 2 were checking the people in. Then they were all confused about something & I was getting a bit ticked off because that was wasting 15 min of my time. THEN just as we were about to get helped, the family realized that some of the bags weren't marked correctly AGGGHHH!!! So just as we were trying to find my name (hyphenation tends to cause some issues), our person had to go to the family's bags & I'm like...SERIOUSLY?! Well then someone else came to work the flight/bag check in & our person came back & completed our check in & away we went to catch the bus...10 min late, but we're still ok right?

WRONG!!! We got to the bustop & I couldn't believe how many people were there!!?? Clearly busses had not come or at least the busses people wanted/needed didn't come yet. So we waited a bit & a CM was there trying to answer people's questions, but it's not like she's driving the busses. A couple busses came for Studios, a few for Epcot, one for DT...nothing for MK..and the crowd was HUGE.

So we decided to walk to another bus stop because we 1) couldn't stand sitting there any more & 2) this was the last stop, so if there was this many people at this stop, imagine how many were at the other 3. So we walked to a bus stop & as we almost there the MK bus pulled away...grrr...but just as soon as we got up there, another MK bus pulled up & we were the ONLY people on it...for about 4 min! Then we headed to the bus stop we just left & a ton of people got on...and that's when it happened...I've now seen EVERYTHING!! A woman got on the CROWDED bus & was breast feeding her child right there while getting on the bus & then of course the whole ride to MK. Now, I'm not a mom & have a very big aversion to public breast feeding, but still realize, a baby's got to eat...but while walking & getting on a bus?? Of course we would find out that this was the same family that decides to get their stroller ready right when they get off the bus, you know where everyone else still has to get off the bus?? So no one else can really get off the bus because they're holding up the line?! Yep, same family!! (Traci, Amy & I had that very conversation the night before so I thought it was quite funny!)

Well now we are 30 min late for our ADR & we had over to the monorail & it occurs to me that what if they don't seat for breakfast after 11am? It was now 1120 & our ADR was at 1050. Sure enough, they stopped seating at 11am, so we never got to have our breakfast w/Stitch & Mickey:( We decided to wait until noon & eat at Kona for lunch & then head over to MK for the rest of our day until our DME pick up of 530.

Lunch at Kona was good. I didn't take any photos, but I had the potstickers & crab cakes that were sooooooooo good. Amy had a club sandwich & sweet potato chips that she said were very, very good!

[Magical JenK]

After lunch, we headed to MK. We decided we were going to give all the rides we wanted a max wait of 30 min. We headed over to Space Mountain & there was no time up...we were confused & it seemed like there was a line, but there wasn't, just people milling in front of where Space Mountain is...so we head up to the line & walked RIGHT ON!! Apparently they had shut it down for some reason & just as we got there, the re-opened it. It was awesome! NO WAIT at all!

We decided to get IMMEDAITELY back on...well by the time we got off the ride & back in line...it was a 30 min wait...couldn't be we said, we were JUST in there...well, it was closer to 40 min by the time we got into a "rocket" & then just as we got seated, they shut the ride down again because of some issue...all I kept saying was please, do not shut it down while we're on it!! We were waiting about 10 min before we started going & had a great ride! When we got outside again, the wait was now 70 min!!

Another busy day at MK. Tea Cups 40 min, Haunted Mansion 35 min, Thunder Mtn 40 min, Dumbo 50 min, Pooh Bear 75 min!! Needless to say, we didn't hit one other ride. I was bummed, but ok with it. We decided we should take the train around the park. We waited for it by Splash Mtn & it was just sitting there...but it didn't move...for 15 min it didn't move...but people kept coming up to the wait platform...and basically felt the need to wait right ON TOP of me...you know when you can feel their breath on your neck...so I was getting a bit irritated & needed to get out of there, so we left & decided that we should do the last of our shopping & then head back to the resort...sure it was early, but considering the bus waits & the ride waits today I didn't want to chance anything!!

The last of my shopping was to pick up some Mickey Rice Crispy treats to bring home! I love using my snack credits on our last day to do that...this time I had to pay out of pocket for them, but it was still fun to have them for Steve when I got home!!

Said goodbye to our brick & then headed to the CSR bus stop.

Here are some photos of our last day at MK:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d4bccd5f00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d4f6cd1500000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

My last snack credit:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d5c50c8e00000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb
Very last view from bus stop:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da03b3127ccea8f2d58a8df100000016100EbuHDhq1Zsb

Got to the resort in no time & had an hour wait before our DME bus was there...but there was a DME bus there already & the bus driver said we could take that one if we wanted. I remembered last year Steve & I waited for a long time before the DME bus got there & everyone was freaking out that they were going to miss their flights. So I said, yeah let's just take it. We can go to the airport, have dinner somewhere & then not have to worry about rushing!!

There were about 7 of us on the entire DME bus ride home & it was so nice & quiet & just really relaxing! Even the driver mentioned how much he enjoys those kinds of bus rides, it really makes for the trip home nicer!!

We decided we were going to eat at Tony Roma's for dinner. But first, we had to check out the Disney store at the airport!! Come on...did you really think we were DONE shopping?? :0) There are actually 2 Disney stores there & we went to one & got nothing & then headed to Tony Roma's & saw the other store & went there first. And while everything there looked like everything else I had seen for the last 5 days of course I have to go over the entire store as if I had never seen these items before!! :0)

And what do I find...in the faaaarrrr corner of the store....what's this?! Could it be?! I bet they don't have my size.....

[Magical JenK]

Drum roll please............................................ .................................................. ..............




http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da11b3127ccea8b980b615f200000015110EbuHDhq1Zsb
THE item! The MUST have item! THE MUST HAVE ITEM THAT NO ONE HAD IN MY SIZE is here at the airport Disney store of all places! And guess what?! They HAD MY SIZE & even a size bigger!! Woo hoo!! I was soooooo happy! :cooldance: I immediately put it on & even though I said I was done shopping I yelled to Amy & said, "don't think I'm NOT getting it!!" After I bought it I put it on & wore it until I got home!! I couldn't believe it! Magic was on my side! Yay!! Mission accomplished!!

Dinner at Tony Roma's tasted extra good (probably because of my new hoodie) & after dinner we headed to Gate 36...which would be my place of residence for the next 6 hours!!

Our flight got delayed (another FIRST for me!) due to a "sabotaged toliet" yet they still had us all board, then had us wait one hour before allowing us to sit in the airport (which was VERY nice of them). About another hour later they told us that we would be doing a plane swap, but the play wasn't coming in for awhile...yeah, like 2 hours awhile!!

We took off at 1220am....it was a very quiet flight, but I cannot sleep on planes. I tried, I tried so very hard & just when I almost finally fell asleep a kid in the next row started coughing something so awful & often that it woke up quite a few people...and then I looked at my watch...we had another 2 hours on the flight!! Aggghhhh!!

Finally touched down at 225am, my dad was kind enough to still come get me!! And I had him bring Amy to her home because I didn't want her taking a cab home at that hour!!! So after waiting for our bags & bringing Amy home, I finally walked into my house at 4am!! :0)

It was a great trip, just totally different than any w/DH I had taken before. Lots of FIRSTs & lots of fun, lots of crowds & lots I didn't get to do...but LOTS of shopping (that's not a first really, but it was still fun!!)!! We both had a great time & meeting Janet & Traci was the biggest highlight!!

Thanks for reading & hope it was entertaining!! Now I can't wait to start planning my December trip!! Woo hoo!!

[Hedy]

Sorry about Ohana. :(

[Hedy]

Ooh, yay hoodie.

I'm glad I wasn't on the flight...I would have been giggling at sabotaged toilet.

[JillyFish]

Love the hoodie Jen!!! Thanks for the report!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it. :)

[linanglab]

So glad you got your hoodie! I LOVE hoodies! And that one is adorable! Sorry it was so crowded for you. But I hope you had a great time.....just a different kind of great time than previous trips! Thanks for the report!

[wilsonfamily4]

Thanks Jen. I loved reading it all! I am so glad you found that impossible item.

[DisneyMa]

I love trip reports w/ pics!! All the food looks soooo yummy:eat:

It makes me want to go back to DL:mickey:

[DisneyMa]

:blush:oops! forgot to say thanks Jen:D

[ligrumpygirl]

YEAH! So happy to read the rest of your trip! Now I have to finish mine...

LOVE the sweatshirt...so happy you found it!!

[askomsky]

great report Jen! Loved reading about all your adventures! lol

Love the sweatshirt too! Glad you finally found it.

[spring]

Thanks for a great TR, Jen! I know I'm a little late posting, but I've only had sporadic internet access the last four days.:sunshine:

[MamaO]

Thanks, Jen. It was almost like being there myself. We ate at Earl of Sandwich for the first time last December, and I'll definitely be back there. That bread was just the best!

[faithhope]

Thanks for the trip report Jen! It helps keep me going between my own trips.

[lmroyea]

I'm so glad you found your sweatshirt. Thanks so much for the great report!

[chipndale]

Just finished reading your TR and I am so glad that you found the hoodie - it is very cute. Makes me anxious for December to get here.