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John Brokaw -- May 2002 -- Walt Disney World (OKWR)May 25-June 1, 2002 Cast:
Weather: Partly Cloudy, Mid 80's. Very Nice...hope it stays this way. Crowds: Seems fairly heavy. Cannot really judge as we didn't make it to any parks today. Well, Here we are!! Quite a day. We woke at 4:30 as we needed to be at the Houston airport by 6:00. Our flight was at 7:50. We parked at around 5:30, and caught the shuttle into the terminal...Don't you just hate that they use the word, "Terminal" for the place where you board a plane? We ran into a colleague and her children and visited for about 30 minutes. Our flight departed right on time. Pretty non-eventful save for the out of control kick the seater in front of us. Muffin called breakfast. We arrived at MCO just after 11:00A.M. Picked up luggage quickly, and were off to pick up our car on the Emerald Aisle. The EA was fully stocked, but nothing above intermediate. Our car is nice, but doesn't lock. Will return to National at WDW tomorrow and trade. All of you Disney Club folks out there...Heads Up...I had entered the "One weekend Day Free" code with my reservation, and as I was driving out today they asked for the coupon...I have used this before, and never had a coupon... in fact, I don't remember seeing a coupon...Is there one?? My sister and her husband weren't due in until 2:10, so John and I were off to find a Super Wal-Mart to get some groceries for our home. Returned, met family, then off to WDW!! WooHoo. Is the Magic Gone?? Um, well...NOPE!! Driving through the gateway to the World and hearing my son shriek with delight!! Cool!! Arriving at Old Key West, having the security check the list and return to tell you, "Welcome Home." Yes!! Checking in with CM Chelle...incredibly helpful, joyful, fun...What Disney is all about. Went out of her way to make us feel welcome. Managed to get us into Building 46 which is on the canal from OKWR to Downtown Disney. Absolutely gorgeous view. More Magic?? You need more? How about Chef Mickeys? WOW!! We have never been there. It will now be a regular for us. The characters were a hoot. They were funny, energetic, cuddly, tolerant, just all around great Characters. Goofy and Donald were greeting in the waiting area. Mickey, Minnie, Chip, and Dale greeted at the tables. CM Jennifer offered impeccable service and did it as though she was excited to serve us. The food was unbelievable. Salad bar, ribs with a mango/orange sauce. Southwestern Baked Chicken, catfish with a lobster sauce...I am allergic to lobster, and they happily cooked some fish for me without the sauce. I guess a highlight for me today, other than John the Smaller being so excited to be here, was watching my low-key, fairly unemotional brother-in law, rave about the food, laugh at the characters, want to have his pic taken with Donald, etc. Wow!! The Magic Lives!!! Tomorrow...Magic Kingdom, MGM, Fantasmic Dinner at Brown Derby. Can't Wait!!! Day 2 Cast: John, DVC Member, been around the block once or twice. John, 8, Son; If you need a Disney tour guide he's your man. Carol, My sister and her husband Javier aka Hobby. Weather: Mostly cloudy, but not rainy. Very pleasant afternoon temperatures with highs in the mid to upper 80s. Lovely evenings with most welcome breezes. John and I were up bright and early to catch the bus to Magic Kingdom for a PS at the now infamous Cinderella's Royal Table. There are now busses running specifically for early Priority Seatings. Seems new since last we were here, but I am often clueless. Since we were going so early, the bus dropped us at TTC rather than at the MK. That was a surprise, and kind of threw a kink into plans. We were to meet the people with the PS at the MK bus area. Fortunately we found them outside of the security area, and went on in. I love being able to enter MK early. I got a great picture of the Walt and Mickey statue with no one in the way. Breakfast was okay...I am not real fond of CRT breakfast food. The characters were Cinderella, Alice, Snow White, Belle, and a strange bedfellow for CRT, Mary Poppins. The characters were very fast, which is normal for this location. After, as we walked downstairs, we noticed Jasmine greeting in the lobby. WooHoo!! After wiping the drool from my face, I got in line for an autograph and a picture. Smaller wouldn't have anything to do with her, but no problem. That just meant I had her to myself. After breakfast plans were to meet Sis and Hubby, Hobby at City Hall. We headed that way, and stopped to get a pic of John touching to slipper for all of our online DVC friends. We arrived at City Hall in time to see a tour group coming out. They had Cruella with them. They were saying their names and favorite characters, and anyone who said something other than, "Cruella" was severely chastised. I loved her guest interactions . My sister and Hobby arrived right on time, and we made our way to Adventureland. I could tell already that it would be a short lived day at MK, as it was early, but getting very crowded already. We were able to whiz through Adventureland. We stopped for photos and autographs with Aladdin as we entered the land. My Brother in Law, age 64, said he was getting his for his grandkids...Um, yeah, right, Hobby, the grandkids...that's the ticket. We then went to the Tiki Room, followed by Ali's Magic Carpets...Hey!! It's Dumbo in disguise with no more than 10 minute wait. Sorry, Dumbo, but Ali's gets my vote. At the end, my BiL asked, "Is that all?" Well, uh, yes! Note: Hobby is 64 and in the past year has had a mild stroke and a heart attack. He just passed a stress test with flying colors, but his Dr. said no coasters. Oh well. We left Ali's for Jungle Cruise but opted for the Fast Pass for 30 minutes later. The next stop was Pirates of the Caribbean which was a walk on. John the S is still a bit afraid at the beginning of this one. After, we shopped a bit. John had filled one Stretch Penny book, and we needed to buy a new one. We then sat for a few while waiting for our FR time. While waiting, a security officer noticed John's Texas A and M shirt and came to chat with us. She also swore John in as WDW Security with the instructions being to have a good time and to tell on any adults who were not. While visiting with us, someone on the next bench lit up, and this security CM excused herself and went and directed them to the smoking area...My Hero!!! She is the first CM that I have seen enforce the policy. It was time for our Jungle Cruise by now, so off we went through the Fast Pass line. I know that there are those who do not like using FP, but I love them. It is nice to get one, then return and fly through a line. When we were finished in Adv. Land, we headed toward Frontierland. The lines at Splash Mtn and Big Thunder were prohibitive, and the FP times were later than we planned on staying at MK, so we moved on. Stopped in to see the Country Bears, rode Haunted Mansion, passed through the mess that was Fantasyland, then left. Note: There was a line at It's a Small World. Not shorter than 20 minutes...I realize that 20 minutes is a fairly short wait, but not at IASW. I have never waited for that ride. We took the bus back to OKWR and took a 2 hour break before heading to MGM for the evening. The Studios were crowded as well, but we did accomplish quite a bit in a short time. The first order of business was to get Fast Passes for Millionaire. We then went and checked in for our Fantasmic seating at Brown Derby. The food here is wonderful <IMO>. I had a salad, and pan seared salmon. Very nice. My sister had a steak, and Bro in Law had the half chicken with Yam. We were all very happy with our meals. After dinner we went to Millionaire. I made top 10 once. I was pushing those buttons just as the light appeared, but apparently that isn't fast enough....Geesh!! Next we rode the GMR...Great Movie Ride. I always enjoy this one, though it is aging. I found a Hidden Mickey I had never seen....Left side of the Gangster Seen...Windows at top of set...there's Mickey. I love it when I find one that I didn't know about. Our next stop was "Sounds Dangerous," then we made a stop at the Candy Store before Fantasmic, We had excellent seats near center, and 3 rows up. John the Smaller found a seat on the front row. He was almost pushed off by 3 little girls who were also sitting there. I really do need to get him some assertiveness training...they could of shoved him right off, and he would of just gathered himself on the ground with no response. We only arrived at the theater 30 minutes early. Like Fast Pass, I feel the PS for Fantasmic is worth it. Well, it was now time to get back to OKWR and rest up for another day. This was a great day. Crowded, but fun. It is great being here. Day 3 Cast: Well, you know that already...same folks as yesterday. Weather: Partly Cloudy. A small bit of rain, not much. Breezy. Mid 80's during the day. Still very, very nice. We're home...well, at our Disney Home. Got in around 6:30. Spent 9 hours at Epcot today. That is a record for me, but it was a great day. As we entered the Park, the first thing noticed was the incredible topiary work right at entrance. WOW!! Absolutely beautiful. A photo spot traffic jam to be sure. The Character Bus was also in the front, bus just in front of Spaceship Earth, and characters located throughout the cemetery...Okay, that's just my opinion...characters located throughout "Leave a Legacy." We went straight to Spaceship Earth. I must say that the monitors at the beginning didn't bother me. I don't understand how they help, but hey, I'm at WDW and life is grand...mostly. Oh, have you ever seen the hidden Mickey just as you enter the Renaissance room? On the left, on the first tabletop as you enter...there it is. Cool. After SE, John and I went to get Fast Passes for Test Track. The return time was 12:40, and our lunch PS was 12:30, so I was pretty sure we would not get back by 1:40. We'll see. We then went to see, "Honey I Shrunk the Audience." This was a first for Hobby, and he enjoyed it. Dear Sis however is another story. Her reactions were fitting an Academy Award, or a winning spot on "Funniest Home Videos." She was hilarious...you had to be there. I of course kept my feet up for the mice...way too real for me, and closed my eyes for the snake...don't like big ol' snakes hissing in my face. John the smaller was pretty neutral. Closed his eyes as necessary. Poor little boy behind us was scared to death. Hey folks...this really is pretty intense. Just wanted to let you know. Some kids are fine, but many are not. We next went to "The Land." I really, really wanted to take Brother in Law on "Living with the Land," but the line was already pushing 45 minutes, and we already had a Fast Pass. So, we went to the cardboard cutout "Food Rocks." This too is getting old, but DS loves it. Our next stop was a trip to the AP holders lounge. I am sure this has been mentioned before, but you can bring one guest per passholder. The lounge was packed. Not just a few people, but picture if you will kids on top of each other in the video room...I kid not. We got our comp drinks, and found one empty couch for a brief break. Very comfortable spot for a quick break, but way too busy to spend much time in today. Did meet someone from the various Disney Boards on the elevator. Pretty neat meeting folks from cyberspace while visiting the parks. After AP lounge, we left for the "Living Seas." There was a line just to get into the movie/hydrolators. Yes, a line out the front door. I know this is a holiday, but I have never, ever experienced these kinds of crowds. Just haven't. We got in long enough to look in the tanks before lunch. Lunch today was at the Coral Reef. I enjoy the atmosphere here. Very calming. We all had fish, go figure. John the Smaller and I had Mahi Mahi grilled with a Teriyaki/Orange Glaze and served on a spinach/mashed potato bed. Carol had Halibut just for the halibut, and Hobby had Blackened Catfish. Carol has had soup at all the restaurants so far, and has loved all of them. Also received a 10% AP discount. We did get out of lunch with a few minutes to spare before our Fast Passes were to expire, so we hurried over to TT. Hmmm, I don't think I like that abbreviation...Test Track. When we got there the Fast Pass line was equal to the Standby line, so we opted for Single Rider which we had never done. I felt okay because there were three of us, so with me in the front, I could be waiting for John the Smaller when he got off, and with my Brother in Law behind there would be someone there when John got on. I don't think I would so this with just John and I...I don't want him waiting by himself at either end...call me the doting, overprotective parent, but I am not going to risk losing him at WDW. The Single Rider line worked great for us today. About a 5 minute wait, and John was in the same car with me, just back row. This is definitely the way to go at Test Track if it is not your goal to get the family photo at the end of the ride. At this point we would normally return to our resort to crash for a bit, but everyone seemed okay, so I continued our tour. It was time for my favorite part of Epcot, World Showcase. First stop was of course Mexico. The Rio Del Tiempo was a walk on...go figure. We compared prices, Plaza vs. Mexico, and the were off. We will eat at San Angel on Tuesday night. Next was of course Norway. John played for a bit on the Viking ship. We spent a bit of time in the Stave Church Replica at the front of the pavilion. Checked out the standby for Maelstrom, then got a Fast Pass. While we were waiting for our FP we went to China. John insisted that he had to buy one of the puppets they sell there. I tried to dissuade him, but could not. It will be interesting to see what happens when he breaks the bank in the next day or so, and sees something he really wants. Bummer. We are doing economics 101 this trip. Going to be told, "No" when he asks me for something after he's broke...It is going to be oh so hard not to crater, but he needs to learn. We watched the acrobats for a bit, walked through the shops, and checked to menu at Lotus Blossom before leaving for Maelstrom. Again, Fast Pass came through. The stand by line was out to Akershus, and FP was a walk on. Enjoyed the ride, watched the movie, then dreamed in the shop of buying one of the awesome sweaters they sell. As we left Norway, we made our way to Germany where we perused the shops, then to Italy where we arrived just in time for Masquerade. It was then time for dinner, and we returned to Lotus Blossom. Standard take out fare, but fairly tasty, and a good values as well. Our next stop was Ice Station Cool where John and I excitedly proclaimed to Carol how much we loved "Beverly." "Oh, try this, it's my favorite," I said. "Mmmm, this is great," John W. says as he drinks a decoy drink...Well, we succeeded. She swallowed the bait...well not completely...it went into her mouth, and the right back into the cup. Hehehe;0) Last stop, well before that porcelain ride just outside Spaceship Earth, was back to the Land. Nope, no go, line was still extremely long. Going to have to make it early one day. Hobby loves plants and gardening, and I want him to see this. Maybe we can take the walking tour. All in all this was a wonderful day. CMs continue to be wonderful...Thanks guys, you're great!! The weather is still fantastic, it's fun to run into people I know...well sort of know. The Flower and Garden Festival gardens are incredible, and the food, yes, the food...does anyone else love eating at WDW?? Tomorrow, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Illuminations Cruise. Day 4 Cast: Still John, John the Smaller, Sister Carol, and her Hubby Hobby...Hehehe...I love saying that. Weather: Still absolutely, without a doubt gorgeous. Upper 80's, nice breezes here and there. Crowds: YUCK!! Thought it might get a little better this week once Memorial Day Weekend was over. Forget it!! It is crowded. Parks are very uncomfortable to navigate. We're having a great time, but seeing much less than normal, even with fast passes. Rumor Mill: Area where 20,000 Leagues was to become Little Mermaid themed something. Today, as all others this trip, have continued to be Magical. I do have a few guest complaints, but about other guests, not CMs. Like, don'tcha hate it when you have been waiting for the tram and others who came after you shove in front of you and you miss the tram?? Or how about this, you get to a show, oh say Festival of the Lion King to get a first row seat behind the disability reserved seats. Next thing you know, the disabled seats are filled with extremely healthy, extremely tall people who ignore CMs who ask them to move. Okay, end of brief rant. Cuz, you know what?? We're at Disneyworld. We arrived at Animal Kingdom today at about 9:00. Longest entry lines I have ever seen here. I know that according to some I should be expressing deep sympathy and understanding with Disney over cuts made, but when it is this crowded...and it is...it is a bit irritating that 2 out of the 4 main parks are still closed by 7:00. The first thing we did before entering the park today was to buy the Meal Package. This was $10.99 plus tax for adults, and $5.99 plus tax for kids. This includes a bottled drink at any location...water, soda, or Powerade, Lunch at the counter service locations including drink, and choice of ice cream or popcorn...we discovered later that these were well worth the cost. Once inside the park, we went directly to the Festival of the Lion King show. I said or did something after we were seated, and the Cm in our section said, "Aren't you one of the performers?" ROLF...I used to be a performer at Six Flags, but that was a long time ago sonny...those days are gone for this body. I love this show, and it is a must see for all of our trips. It was also a good opportunity for John the Dancer to see guys dance, (there are about 200 students where he studies, and he is the boy), and to reinforce the 8 count pattern in most dance. After FOTL, we went to Africa to pick up a Fast Pass for the Safari. The FPs were for about an hour later, so we had time to visit Rafiki's Planet Watch. We had not done this since AK cast preview. We enjoyed looking for hidden Mickeys on the mural as you enter the main building. Watched an aspiration needle biopsy being performed on a snake, had pictures with Rafiki and Meeko, sister and hubby as well, it's for the grandkids you know? ;0) John then spent some time with the exotic goats and sheep. Found a ram he liked, and spent some time hanging with him. We left Planet Watch for our Fast Pass around 12:15. Again, FP saved the day. We were on Kilamanjaro Safari within 5 minutes. Our guide was just plain bad...hopefully she was new as she really stumbled over her words a lot. Also, you know that thing about riding early...the earlier the better?? You know?? It's true. We usually ride this at 9:00, and see many animals. Today we rode the virtually animal free version of the attraction. Quite a bummer. Oh well. Next time. After the safari we went for lunch. Flame Tree BBQ was open!!! I had the BBQ Platter...3 ribs, chicken breast, corn, coleslaw, roll, and Large drink. Smaller had PBJ sandwich with chips and drink. Total: $15.30. Drinks earlier were $5.50. Still had ticket for ice cream or popcorn...another $2.50 each...so, total $25.80 for something I paid about $19 for. I hope they keep this program. Would love to see them expand it. We ate our lunch down by the water, and were serenaded by a group with guitars and steel drum. Nice addition to lunch. Just prior to lunch we had picked up Fast Passes for It's Tough to be a Bug. They were perfect for finishing lunch, then heading on over. Were in the trunk of the tree in no time, and entered the theater in about 10 minutes. Did I ever say how much I like Fast Passes? However, I felt sick...Yucky Yucky, and went straight through the theater just in case. Met others at the exit after the show. Apparently my sister was a bit shaken by this one too. Geesh...I really need to get her to Small World and Winnie the Pooh quickly. Our next stop was the AP lounge at AK. It is located at the back of Pizzafari if you are looking. Had a water cooler, TV, tables with comfy chairs, video arcade games for free, board games, etc. I had heard they had FPs sometimes so was hoping to score a couple for either Dinosaur or the new coaster thingy, but they had none. They did have reserved seating passes for Lion King, and special viewing area passes for the parade. Were we going to be there long enough I would have taken the parade pass. It was about 2:00 now, so we needed to go for our midday break. We decided to stop for our ice cream now. Oh Nooooo!!! I did not have my ice cream ticket...I still had the meal ticket...The CM had taken my ice cream ticket for lunch, and the ice cream man wouldn't take the lunch ticket for ice cream. Waaaa!!! Smaller got an ice cream, Carol got an ice cream, Carol's Hubby Hobby got an ice cream...I was the only one who didn't get an ice cream and I could tell it was going to be a Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day...sorry...I couldn't resist. Anyone else know that book?? So, crybaby that I can be, I marched my self right into Guest Relations with that left over meal ticket. I explained what happened to a very understanding GR CM, and asked her if I was going to have to just, "Eat it," so to speak. She very graciously offered me a coupon to pick up my ice cream at Epcot later. I like her best. She also cancelled our Mexico dinner...Javier from Mexico didn't want Mexican food...Humph!! Fine...We'll go to Germany. We left AK and took that long journey to the parking lot. Might I say that leather interior in the Florida sun will burn your butt...just thought I would let you know. After a 2 hour break, a bit of snoozing, a bit of watching shaved headed ladies on Ricky Lake, it was time to go to Epcot for dinner...Why in the world is the "S" next to the "D" on the keyboard...I am constantly spelling, "Sinner," instead of, "Dinner." I was planning on driving to Epcot, but had a DUH before we left...Okay John, you drive to Epcot, walk out the World Showcase entrance to get your Reflections of Earth Boat, are dumped back at Yacht Club after, Epcot is closed, car is there...um, then what?? So, we took the bus to Epcot and scurried in a hurry to Germany. We were seated quickly, and were at the buffet quickly. This is another one of those things we do every trip. The food is good, not great, but we love the atmosphere and the show. After dinner we made our way toward the Yacht Club marina. Met our driver, Scott...Scott is awesome. Great guy!! Parks director for the largest park in the county by day...bigger than Epcot, and Reflections of Earth captain by night. We enjoyed visiting with him, and he allowed John the Smaller to drive the boat between MGM and the Swan/Dolphin. He had also managed to get our boat in the spot where Breathless in normally parked. Dead center, in the front. This was an extremely special time for sister and her hub...I am so glad I was able to do this for them. Ask for Scott when you book the Cruise...You'll be glad you did. At our request he dropped us at the MGM dock so we could catch a bus back to Old Key West, and there ends another day at WDW for the Johns and supporting cast. Tomorrow...Looking like an MGM Day. Lunch at Prime Time. Thanks for Reading. Day 5 Cast: John, DVC Member, John the Smaller, DS, age 8. Carol, sister and her husband. Weather: Looked like some major storms were headed this way, but they missed us. Still mid to upper 80s. Still a nice breeze. Crowds: Somewhat less crowded than earlier in the week. Still high moderate, and still more than I have ever experienced during the same week previously. This morning Carol decided to sleep in. The rest of us decided to open MGM. It was nice arriving in the morning. I picked up a Fast Pass for Tower of Terror. John the Smaller will not ride this, so I figured I would take advantage of having another adult along and ride. We then went and took a gander at the line at Rock n Roller Coaster...Whew...Long. So, no go. We stopped in the hat to pick up a new lanyard and a couple of new pins for John. I asked the CM there what could be done about 100 Years of Magic pins that I am unhappy with. The backs have broken off on one, the new batteries were dead, and the just haven't worked real well. He said we could trade them in, so I will check on that while here. After leaving the hat we decided to ride Star Tours. Note: there is currently no Fast Pass for this attraction. It appeared to be temporary, but I am not sure. The line was about 15 minutes. Hobby, Carol's hubby decided not to ride. I wish I had made that decision...This ride makes me a bit ill. I made it through about half, then closed my eyes for the rest. For the rest of the time until Carol arrived we just walked around. We visited New York Street, then into the area by the prop shop. I ran into Ali's Mom again...she is a poster on Intercot. Talked with her awhile. As we were getting ready to leave that area, we saw a very lonely Goofy and went for Autographs and Pics. As we left the area, we went in for a quick visit with Mickey, and caught Tigger and Pooh with very short lines as well. They were outside of their trailers in front of the production buildings. It was now close to time to meet Carol at the entry, and my Fast Pass was burning a hole in my pocket. As we headed to the front, we noticed Alice, Belle, Hercules, and the Snow Queen in the area in front of the hat. I had never seen the Snow Queen out. Cool...Not time to stop though. Maybe later. I was able to get right on ToT with my Fast Pass...I love Fast Passes...have I mentioned that before? The ride was wonderful!! The current drop sequence has a bit of Tigger to it. Very bouncy. Great Fun!! I then rejoined the group up front. Carol arrived, and we trudged through the park to Muppet Vision 3-D. Finally, we found a 3-D movie that Carol could handle. The others she was not fond of. Once finished there we went back to the area where Snow Queen was. The line was fairly short, and I couldn't pass this one up....Oooooo, is she ever mean? We finished our photo, and she said, "Leave Now!" YIKES...We did. I got a picture of my brother in law practically running away from, her...LOL...it was funny. Lunch was at 50's Prime Time today. I enjoy eating here, but usually it is just John and I and the servers don't play the part for us. Today we had cousin Patty, and she was great. The other server in our area was super as well. We had one couple next to us who were very hesitant to get into the theme, but by the end they were there. Everyone in the room played along, and it got to be a lot like a gathering of my family...loud, arguing, a lot of eating. It was a blast!! I had the meatloaf...YUMMMY!!! Served with mashed potatoes and green beans. I cleaned my plate and was bragged on. She told the room my name was, "Hoover." No Denial here. Our next stop was ,"One Man's Dream." I love this attraction. It is very informative, and at times very moving. This is a wonderful addition to MGM. I understand that some have been surveyed as to the fate of this. I hope that they keep it. It is unique. We spent about 45 minutes here. After One Man's Dream we decided to return to Old Key West for our afternoon repose. We took about 3 hours off, and spent the evening at Downtown Disney doing Pre-Shopping...Looking at everything, thinking about what we might want, and returning later to make our purchases. I am leaning toward some posters for the game room in our house. There are a couple of watches I would like to add to my collection...Alas, I have no idea what we will get this trip. I always try to buy keepsakes vs. clothing, hats, cheap toys, etc. We were back at OKWR by 9:30. It seems like we didn't do much, but it was another nice day. We are mid-trip here, and a bit sluggish. Tomorrow is planned to be a very laid back day. Tomorrow...Carol and Hobby take the day off. The John's play it by ear. Day 6 Cast: The John's...John and John the Smaller. Carol, my sister, and her husband. Weather: Nice until late afternoon, and then it all broke loose. Wow!! Awesome storm. Crowds: Yup!! Still here. Today was actually a split day. Sis and Hubby only bought 5 Day Hoppers, so they took today off to shop. They spent most of their day at Downtown Disney and came back to the resort with a lot of loot. John and I went to Animal Kingdom to try to hit the new Primeval Whirl along with Dinosaur and Triceratops Spin. When we got to AK, we went straight to Dinorama. Okay, it is a bit cheesy, maybe even a bit Six Flagish, but the finished product is kind of fun to look at. We were able to walk right onto Primeval Whirl. It was a lot of fun!! Yes, it is a basic Wild Mouse ride. The cars seat 4, but 4 my size would not fare well. The first half of the ride there is no spinning. The second half, the cars whirl...we rode once with just Myself and Smaller, and we spun some...Later, we rode with 2 others, and we whirled and whirled...thought I might hurl. It was really a fun ride. Carnivalish, but different enough. After our first Whirl, we walked onto Dinosaur twice. We rode Triceratops spin once, another ride on Whirl. We did all of this in about 45 minutes. It was 10:00 now, and since I hadn't eaten breakfast, we decided to go ahead and eat lunch. We went back to Flame Tree BBQ. Got the Meal Package again...total cost for the pack is $18, lunch alone was $15. I figured we would buy drinks later anyway, so this saved a bit. Probably around $5 in savings this time. Next we decided to get a Fast Pass for the Safari. Went to the Flights of Wonder show. This is a show that I feel is worth seeing. It is about 15 minutes long, and easily overlooked. Before going for our safari, we walked through the Maharajah Jungle Trail. We were hoping to find some Thai CMs as we have lived there. No luck. We did see the tigers though. Love the giant fruit bats as well. We decided to skip Kali River...just didn't feel like wet undies today. Our safari was pretty good. Wild driver...Whew!! Hang On!! Saw a lot more in the animal line than we had before. It was getting hot, so we returned for our break at 1:00. We had dinner plans for Olivia's at 5:00. Olivia's is the restaurant at Old Key West. They have a good menu, excellent service, and food. I had a Maui Mahi on greens with roasted potatoes...very good. Carol had Pork Chop dish, Hobby, Chicken, and John the Smaller had, Hmmm...I forget...He has had a lot of PB&J this week. I made him vary from that, but I forget what. Because the weather was so bad we just returned to the room. Later in the evening we rode over to Celebration to drool over the homes. Maybe someday; oh wait, I'm a public school teacher...never mind. Notice how our days have gotten a bit slower...Whew!! I am going to need a vacation after vacation. Tomorrow: Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Day 7 Cast: John, 41, Wonderful Single Dad and DVC Member. John, aka Mini Me, 8, Incessant arguer/debater. Carol...My sister, 56, 2nd real trip to WDW. Javier, aka Hobby, Carol's Husband, 64, first trip to WDW since 1982 Crowds: YYYYIIIIIKKKEEESS!! Borderline not worth it. MK was packed by noon...Epcot was also extremely crowded. i.e....Living with the Land had a 90 minute wait time posted...It didn't look that long, but it was long. Weather: Gorgeous morning. Very nice...temps Mid to Upper 80's, maybe tweaking at 90. Late afternoon Thunder shower, but very nice temps after...maybe 70s. Today we had intended to spend the entire day at Magic Kingdom. The park had closed at 7:00 all week, so we were hoping to get in the parades, Spectro, Fireworks, Dinner at Tony's. We arrived to open the park. While waiting to enter, a CM came by asking people what resort they were staying at...seems, or so she said, they are re-looking at early entry. I also heard this rumor from our Illuminations Cruise captain, so, maybe. We went straight to rope drop at Fantasyland. Rode Winnie the Pooh, walked on Peter Pan, It's a Small World, then Snow White. We left Fantasyland, John and Hobby hit the Tea Cups, I went and made a PS for Tony's for dinner. As we entered Tomorrowland it was obvious that we would not be staying in the MK. Tom Speedway had a full queue that made it's way out, and toward Space Mountain. We grabbed Fast Passes for Buzz Lightyear, then took a run on TTA. After TTA, we had a bite at the Bakery...also packed, then rode Buzz...Carol has declared Buzz her favorite ride. As we exited MK, we caught the monorail to TTC to Transfer to our new park for the day, Epcot. At TTC we asked for the Cockpit. Hobby was so excited. He kept saying, Jay, Jay...translated Yea!! I think his favorite ride was the monorail. Our pilot was Thurman...Been there 19 years. Very talkative. We enjoyed riding with him. Uh Oh!! As we were leaving the monorail, I noticed I was without the backpack...Autograph Book x 3 trips, stretch penny folder about 1/4 full, pennies and quarters, camera...Bumming all the way. Anyway, we had GR at Epcot check, and no luck. Oh well...It will show up, or it won't. I was going to enjoy Epcot. I cancelled our PS at Tony's, and made a PS for Le Cellier. Our first stop outside of GR was Imagination. The rumors online were that the ride was open, and yea verily, It was...Walk on. I really enjoyed the ride. Yes, it has a few holdovers from the previous version, but the new story, and the return of Figment are a huge improvement over what was. We give it 2 thumbs up...there are others who will not...I guess that's okay:0) Next we stopped in at the Land for lunch. The lines here were all long as well. I waited about 30 minutes at the Sandwich stand in the food court. Had a nice Italian Sub. John had his standard PB and J. After eating, we went to World Showcase to see the few areas we had not yet. Canada was first. Victoria Garden was beautiful Took several pictures. Watched O Canada. It is okay. I am not a big fan of the country movies. Also, me and my getting queasy...I did. We worked our way to Great Britain next...Stopped to see if I could find us in the Family history section...Found my brother in law's, but not mine, no sir, it ain't there. Next we passed briefly through France on our way to America. I had wanted to see the Voices of Liberty, but they were off. Saw some country/folksy group. They were okay, but not the V.O.L. We stayed for the American Adventure. Had a baby/toddler a couple of seats over who didn't get it. LOL...I guess she really couldn't, but some things just aren't for little kids, and the baby took away from the show...at least for those of us in the immediate area. NOTE: I am in no way saying that people shouldn't take their babies/toddlers...John the Smaller took trip 1 at 15 months, and is now on trip 14. It was time to hurry back to Canada for our PS. Of course it was also time for the storm to hit. So, by the time we walked into Le Cellier, we were a bit damp. I was in the running to win the wet t-shirt contest. We started out with the Cheddar Cheese soup. One of my favorites. I also had a salad...for some reason I am addicted to salad since having surgery last fall...I dunno. John , Carol, and I had Prime Rib. It was good, but not great. Not a Wow meal. I wish we had eaten somewhere else. The soup is the clincher at Le Cellier, other than that, I have enjoyed my meals there, but they are fairly basic.<imo> After dinner, I decided to go back to GR to check on the backpack. I sent the rest of the group packing to Ellen's Energy Adventure. John really wanted to do this, and I saw an opportunity to avoid it. I find this attraction/ride, well, tiresome. John loves it. He is G/T; I am not. Maybe that makes a difference. Meanwhile back at GR, no word on the backpack. I make it my quest to find said backpack that very night. I met the rest of the group at the Ellen Exit. We spent some time in Mouse Gear, then I sent them to the bus, and I returned to the monorail to continue my quest. I knew the following...I had the backpack at the potties outside City Hall just before leaving MK. It was either on a bench there, or on the MK-TTC monorail. I asked the CM at the Epcot station...she called, and ALAS!!! Backpack was at the MK Station. She told them I was on my way...Yellow Train, Yellow Shirt. I arrived at the MK station, inquired about the backpack..."Oh, we just sent it to Epcot." Okay, not prob. Back to Epcot, and backpack retrieved. I made my way back into Epcot, purchased 2 posters I have been wanting...Mickey doing the Rockwell self portrait thing, and Mickey thanking the firefighter...These are for our game room. Will buy the frames at Wal-Mart and save a ton. Next I went with my 100 Years of Magic pins to have someone at the Pin Center check them with new batteries. She poked around on one for a bit, then told me to go pick up new pins...She tossed the others, and gave me new pins...WOW!! I was taken aback, but a very happy camper...even bought the one we didn't have. It was time for me to return to OKWR. I hit the bus stop right on time. As I entered our "Home" with the backpack there was great joy and celebration. Other than the crowds at MK, and the lost backpack, all was well with the world. This has been an excellent trip. Day 8 Cast: A very tired John, DVC member; John, age 8, not tired for some reason; Carol, my sister, and her hubby Hobby. Weather: Getting hotter. Partly cloudy. Crowds: Not many at our room. Well, this is the end. Today we spent the morning getting ready to head back to Houston. John and I started with breakfast at Olivia's. I was hoping "our" morning crew would be in as we hadn't seen them this trip. Breakfast was kept to the room except for Day 2. Only one of the regulars was there though. Oh well. Our next job was to get packed. We planned on leaving our room just in time to check out at 11:00. Flight was not until 5:50, so it was going to be a long day. After checking time and time again in drawers and under beds, we moved all of our luggage to the car. We went to the Hospitality house to clear the bill, then to Downtown Disney for a couple of last minute purchases. Lunch was at Denny's in Kissimmee. Not Disney, but not bad food and service. We arrived at the airport about 2:30. Turned in the car, and sat in the Terminal for 2 hours. It was very nice to just sit for awhile. John the Smaller gave us a Disney quiz from his "Disneyworld For Kids, By Kids Book." In true Alex Trebeck fashion he would announce the score..."Dad with 6 points, and Aunt Carol still with nothing." LOL...I was kicking butt!! Of course Uncle Hobby was saying nothing...he usually doesn't. Our flight made it gracefully to Houston at about 7:00P.M. I panicked as I looked for my parking ticket. I finally gave up and went to the window. Just as she asked for my ID to fill out a report, I found the ticket...Whew!! About the trip...Let's get the yucky out of the way...I was very disappointed with the hours. It was crowded at WDW folks. I have been this same week 7 times, and it has never, ever been this way. This bordered on Christmas, and the crowds were larger than last July/August when we were there. Yet, E-Nights were cancelled, of course we all know about Early Entry, and take it a step further, AK of course closed at 6:00, but other then Memorial Day and Friday, Magic Kingdom was closed at 7:00. This left 2 parks open for the evening with large crowds. I know, I know, the crowds are down and this is off season. Whatever! Now, Magic... It was fun being with my sister and her husband and getting to experience things through their eyes. Not a lot different that watching John in his early days. The food was good everywhere, but outstanding at Chef Mickey's. The characters were everywhere. The character interaction was excellent. The Cast Members were all in all going above and beyond in the interactions with the guests. Yes, we saw the occasional Crabby Patty, but are you always 100% "Suzy Sunshine" at your job? I know I am not. Our room was immaculate, and the location on the canal, perfect. I really like the meal package thingy at Animal Kingdom and would love to see it expand. The AP lounges are a nice diversion. The one at AK I liked much better than the one at Epcot, but it was because the one at Epcot was packed when we were there. I enjoyed Primeval Whirl, and even thought that the whole area turned out okay. So much more, but I need to end. As I reflect back over the week, this was one of our best trips yet. Other than what I would consider bad hours, I can think of no other negative experience. So, "Is the Magic Gone?" many ask. My response is, "The Magic is Alive and Well at Walt Disney World." Thanks so much for reading, and for the many kind words as I wrote. Until Next Time... John and John the Smaller...who is getting bigger. John Brokaw jobro912@yahoo.com Mail a Comment to John Brokaw |
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