Disney + Birthday= An Incredible Gift! (PTR- May 18th - May 24th) About This Page:

[OhToodles!]

So sweet of your boys!! The Boardwalk was a good choice! Dinner sounded delicious!

[lovewdw2]

So okay it is now more than a month since I posted! Unfortunately I had to deal with poison ivy for the last 3 weeks. Thank you to my skin, I get allergic reaction when ever I get poison ivy. Then this past week I experienced (another) food allergy! It sounds like I am making up excuses, I wish I was but nope.

So yesterday I got up at 8am and typed ALL DAY my trip report! I finally got it done last night! So yep I will be posting shortly. First I need to get my pictures for the albums.

I would say that today everyone will get to read my ENTIRE Trip Report!

Yeah!

[Tara O'Hara]

Awwwww! That stinks about the poison ivy and your allergies!!. Tons of that you are 100% better!! I am excited to hear about your adventures!!

[lovewdw2]

May 19th- Tuesday:

This was the day I was supposed to leave Philly, but I am so glad that I came the day before. I got up super early at 5:30am- I think it was the excitement that today was the 1st day at the Parks! I had set the alarm for 7am. I was still tired from yesterday but I need to get up and out the door. I opened the balcony door and the sun was not up yet- so beautiful! I saw people waiting for the DME bus, so early!

As I was getting ready for Magic Kingdom I realized I didn’t bring an extra pair of capris! I will make do! I got down at the bus stop at 8:30am, but the bus did not come until 9am! A lot of people were going too. I walked from the bus stop and got through security quickly. I stopped to get a Birthday Button and then walked down Main Street! What a Beautiful site! I went to the bathroom over by Casey’s Corner, because I know the water there is the coldest. From there I took the long way to get to Peter Pan’s Flight. When I did get there the wait was 25 minutes, but I had a fast pass. I love this ride! When I got off the wait was now 60 minutes. Then I did Philharmagic, Winnie-the-Pooh, Carousel of Progress, which a baby cried through the 2 first scenes and I was getting mad about that! I went on the Haunted Mansion basically no line. Every so often the rides stop, and this happened on HM. It stopped 2 times, but the second was so magical! I ended up backwards, the doombuggy was going backwards into the grave yard- it stopped right there. This happened once when my kids were with me, and at that point it was creepy. It was still creepy when it happened again on this trip 2015! I survived!

I did not go to Peco’s Bill, but to Cosmic Ray which was around 11:15am; something new or at least something I haven’t tried in a long time. I got the pulled- pork but no roll. They served it in a cup and I asked for a plate. So at the fixing bar I took lettuce, tomatoes and grilled onions. Then I ate the “salad” with the pulled-pork. It was very good and I did not get the French fries, instead got the apple slices. Perfect Lunch! I was sitting inside and could see the castle! It was also not very crowded but by the time I left it was getting very crowded!
My last fast pass was for the Dwarf Mine at 11:50am, but since I just ate I decided to let me stomach rest. Rode the People Mover I got off and went to see the Dwarf Mines, it was down at 12:24pm. It had been down awhile and of course no one knew when it would be up running. So I decided to go to Tom Sawyer’s Island. It has been awhile since I had been on the island and it was getting hotter too. I walked around but didn’t do any of the tunnels. I did the 2 bridges and one was tricky! I decided I was done for the day and felt like I had done what I wanted to do. I did not go back to the Dwarf Mine, because I was too hot and tired. I walked past Crystal Palace and saw the family from last night. Too funny! They remembered me and I remembered them! Before I left I went into the Confectionary store (my favorite) and decided to buy a cake pop and pink cotton candy. Took a bite of it, the ears are marshmallow and the cake part was chocolate. Very good! I ate the whole thing!

Then I decided to ride the train all the way around. Tasted the cotton candy, which I swear tastes best at MK! The ride cooled me down but I was still tired. I was suppose take the Ferry to the TTC, but I was just too tired and hot. I took the bus back to Boardwalk, dragged my body back to my room. I went to the pool thinking it would cool me, which it did. The pool was very nice and little crowded too. I laid on a pool chair in the shade and fell asleep for 25 minutes. I woke up read some of my book, went back to the room. My dinner reservation for the Yachtsman Steakhouse wasn’t until 6:30pm. I took a shower and got ready; I packed a pair of shorts but changed my blouse. I wore my sandals to give my feet a break. I walked to the Yacht Club and it was a very nice walk.

I got to the Steakhouse early again. This time they made me wait. Then my name was called and I was sitting at the table. Lulu was my server and she was Fantastic! She brought rolls; sour dough and onion rolls with butter and roasted garlic. The garlic was still in the cloves. I tried it but as much as I love garlic I thought it was just too strong for the bread. I ordered the Caesar salad, the fillet with au-gratin potatoes (it came with mashed but I wanted something different) asparagus and grilled onions. I ordered iced tea and they brought the little caddy of 3 kinds of sugar but also a little holder for sugar-water. It was cute. The Caesar salad was really good and the croutons were focaccia. The filet was so tender, the au-gratin was a lot but very good, the sautéed onions were great but it came in a huge container (I could not eat them all), the asparagus was the Greatest. Why? Because first they were grown in Epcot and they were the biggest asparagus I have ever seen. There was blue crab meat and lemon curd. I was a little weirded out about the lemon curd, because that is used for pies. However just a little of it gave it a clean taste, added to it made it taste even better! I would have never thought of adding it to a vegetable. I of course was so full that I could not eat everything. No dessert either, but my server brought a little piece of cake, I ate half. Plus during the dinner the lights kept getting brighter than got dimmer. It was kind of annoying. At one point it was too dark. I still had a Great experience and would definitely return. (The dress code says “business casual” and mostly everyone I saw was dressed appropriate, but this one older couple came in wearing shorts! Really? Didn’t they know?)

I changed back into my shorts and walked to Epcot. I heard live music at United Kingdom and went to listen. Then I walked to France to see if my “friend” Ana was still in the Dior shop. She was but it was her day off. I found out later that I had been talking to her boss- of course not knowing at the time I was ranting all about Ana- loved her and my experience last May! I was told that Ana would be there on the 21st with the engraver- Great that was my Birthday! I left and went to see what flavors were at the ice cream in France. I ended up getting 2 scoops- Caramel and Chocolate! I didn’t eat it all- still full from dinner.

I stood on the bridge for the fireworks. I ended up meeting a couple from Memphis and they shared with me their trip experiences. They left while the fireworks were still going, because I told them it was a mob house if they left right after. I hadn’t seen these fireworks in awhile. It was good! I was walking at about 9:16pm to the boat. The 1st stop was Boardwalk! I was tired but not as tired as I was when I got back from MK. I cancelled fast passes at AK – scheduled for Friday. I realized there were still some things I needed to do at MK and my plans did not include going in the am to MK. I tried to get the fast passes for Friday but they were all late times. I would try in the morning.

I went to bed at 10:30pm! Long day but a Great one!

[CinderAbby]

I'm sorry to hear you had to battle the poison ivy so long - I was wondering as I started the iPad this morning how you had been doing. Now I know. What a great day though. You're making me hungry with the food photos. Of course by the time I go, I will have forgotten what I saw so I won't be able to get it myself.

Did you think of us as you rode the train? That was fun riding that and Small World with you. It's a shame you don't go in the summer so we could meet up again but I get why people don't go then. Abby loves Peter Pan too. I too would have been mad at CoP with a crying baby. I understand that they can't just get up and leave but that's a good amount of time to let the child cry.

As for the rest of your TR, we'll be here whenever you get the chance to post it (of course I've been waiting impatiently for it but I'll survive)

[lovewdw2]

Darlene, I could always text you to remind you!

I did think of you and Abby! Of course I didn't do the Its a Small World- because of my time I did it with you, Abby, and Lenny! I just couldn't. It was like I wanted that to be my last time with you and your family- it was special to me! This is why I probably should do a short trip in August just so I can go on IASW...right? Make another memory!

[chezp]

Good grief, you have had a rough time of it - glad you're feeling better now and are back to posting again!

[lovewdw2]

May 20th - Wednesday:

I woke up at 6:30am, but stayed in bed until 7am. I tried to get past passes for Friday morning and was able to get them early enough! I called the Front Desk to find out when the pool opened and he said 9am and I made a comment saying that was too late. I asked about the Turn-down service and the price was $15.00 a night. I thought that might be a mistake since all I wanted was the bed to be turned down, why was there a price for that? I would check that out later. I hung up and the phone rang it was the Front desk person and he told me that he made a mistake about the pool opening and that it opened at 7am. Anyway I got my suit on and grabbed my towel and walked down to the pool. All I wanted to do is sit in the hot-tub to get my muscles relaxed before going about my day.

No one is at the pool except the man who was cleaning the chairs. He told that the pool did not open until 9am. But I told him I just wanted to sit in the hot tub for 10 minutes and he let me do that! He turned the tub on and I got in. It was a little hot at first but it felt great too! His name was Ariel but I believe he was from Puerto Rico or some Spanish speaking country, but he was so very nice. He explained to me about the schedule; he has a meeting at 7am then has until 9am to clean the pool area before it opens. I got out and dried off and again thanked him!

Got back to the room and got ready to go to Downtown Disney for the morning. I decided after the last trip I had to go during the morning to do the shopping, instead of fighting the crowds at night. I am glad I did! The bus to DTD took longer to pick me up. In fact it was packed by the time I got on and when the 1st stop was Typhoon Lagoon, which is when I was able to get a seat. I did a little shopping first in World of Disney and then got hungry for lunch.

I decided to try Cookes of Dublin. I walked inside and started reading the menu, but had a very hard time making a decision. (That is the one thing I hate is not making a decision quick enough). I decided to get a beer-battered cheeseburger, onion rings and a coke. I asked for not a roll for the burger, but it was very good, and the onion rings were beer-battered too. It was hot outside so sitting inside in air-condition was very appealing. I did buy these cookies too; they looked like chocolate crinkles but they were chocolate with orange, which I thought was different. Even the cashier though they were strange- and when I said “chocolate crinkles” she knew exactly what I was saying. I thought the chocolate crinkle cookie was American but not because Ireland has them too! I left and headed back to do a little more shopping.

I was too full from lunch to have some ice cream at Ghirardelli- and I really wanted to eat there again but just couldn’t. I did go into the store and got a free mini piece of candy, which I ate! It smelled good but just couldn’t fit anymore into my full stomach.

I walked to the bus stop to go back to the Boardwalk. It was getting hotter too. I dropped my packages off and changed my sandals to my sneakers and walked towards the boat. Once I got outside and I saw a bride with her 3 bridesmaids and I said something like “Congrats”. The bridesmaids’ dresses were a light blue and the bride had this blue belt around her middle of her dress. As they got to the boardwalk they stopped. There was bag pipe player playing and they followed. What a hot day to get married, they were headed to take pictures at the gazebo past the ESPN restaurant. I continued to walk to the boat. I got on and got off at Hollywood Studios. My 1st fast pass was Toy Story Mania, which was always a longer wait if you waited in line, 70 minutes. The fast pass line went quickly. Once I got into the spot to get in car, a cast member saw my button and wished me a happy birthday. I asked him how he was doing and he said “has worked 85 hours in one week and his next day off was not until the following Friday!” OUCH! He didn’t seem angry. When I got off I had 58,900 points. I wished I was able to go on again right away, but who wants to wait 70 minutes? Not me! I then went on the Great Movie ride. This ride needs a serious upgrade. The “driver” wasn’t very good either as far as acting. When she “disappeared” the gangster got on the car- he looked at me and said “what are you looking at? ” I just laughed. Then I went to One Man’s Dream to pay my respects at Mr. Walt Disney. I did stay for the film and so enjoyed listening to his story of growing up. I was supposed to see Indiana Jones, but I decided not to. It was hot and humid, so I just walked back to the boat and took it to Epcot because my dinner at Via Napoli was at 6:20pm. The boat ride was very nice and relaxing. I got off and walked to Italy.

I got there early again for my dinner reservation, but it is better to be early than late. She asked to wait and I turned around and watched the server get some desserts ready! It was a big glass window and I could hear the noise coming from the dining room. I could even see the cooks making the pizzas too. Then they called me and I followed to where I would be sitting. It was a quaint table for two. I sat on the booth side, so I could look around. The room itself was big and art on the walls. It was quite noisy too, but I didn’t mind since I was by myself. My server came over (I don’t remember his name) and I was looking at the menu. I know that Via Napoli is famous for their pizza, but if you wanted something like pasta, limited menu. I had thought I would get something pasta, but I decided right there and then I would get the pizza! So glad I did!

I decided to order the Caesar salad- which was huge; 2 people can share this but I ate most of it. I didn’t eat the bitter pieces of romaine, which was in the salad. I ordered a Blood Orange juice, but not a juice really more of water with flavoring. It was very good and a nice change! (Found out they were not considered to be a refill- $6.00 a piece- I had 2!) I ordered a individual pizza with pepperoni and onion! It was so good! I have had great pizza at home, but this was even better. The crust had a nice taste to it, not overly doughy either. If I had this at home I would probably not eat the whole thing since I had salad too, but I did! I even ate the crusts which at home I never do.

While I was thoroughly enjoying my pizza, I met a couple who were sitting to the right of me. We first were talking about the pizza and then I learned through talking with them; they had been living in Hawaii for quite a long time, then moved to Wisconsin (weather shock!), then to Celebration last September. I think the husband was retired but told me that he decided to get a part-time job for Disney. He now is selling DVC and gets all the perks, because his wife was enjoying them too. They have a daughter that still lives in Wisconsin and I think there was a trip planned for her (and family) to come down to visit them.
Then when I was done, my server asked if I wanted dessert and I didn’t have any room. I said no and asked for the check. He then brought out a plate with a cookie with whipped cream and a candle. Sang Happy Birthday in Italian! I ate it but not all of it. Paid the check and gave the server a nice tip (I did this a lot because each experience was just Fabulous!). I said my goodbyes to the couple and walked outside. I realized as much pizza I ate I did not feel full. No feeling so full that I wished I had not eaten all of that pizza! I was amazed by it.

I decided to do something crazy- I headed to the monorail to go to Magic Kingdom! At this point it was a little after 7:30pm, I already saw the fireworks at Epcot, and so what did I want to do? Go see Magic Kingdom at night! I got on the monorail and when I was at the TTC, this was my chance to ride the ferry boat to Magic Kingdom! I have never done this before because when I am at Disney I never rent a car (even when the kids were little either). It was during sunset and the pictures I got were so beautiful. To see the boat going towards MK were spectacular. A lot of people got off and I went upstairs to find a place to stand, but I ended up sitting. I have to remember for next time to stand at the front of the boat. Anyway as I was sitting I ended up meeting a family and I think the grandmother was from Russia and she was watching her 2 grand-daughters. Apparently the Mom was bringing the strollers onto the ferry. She came and sat down a little later. Her English was very good and we were talking for a bit. I was watching the girls, one kept going to side where the rail was and I think Grand-mom was little afraid. I need to do this ferry again and these times try to not make any “friends” because I tend to miss out on things like this! I get through security pretty quickly! Then I get to the ‘magic band’ turnstiles and in front of me is a father with a double stroller. In front of him was one girl who was using one of them, he didn’t want to move up because he said “he didn’t want to lock her in”. So his turn, he uses the one closest to him, which meant he blocked the other one! I could not get up there. I was angry! So I got up in front of the stroller to use the one that he was not using. Yes he couldn’t move his stroller until I was done! Kind of like karma right back to that guy! He was mad, but so what! What he should have done, was push the stroller through and used the first one so I could use the second one. That would have been the smart and courteous way, but no not this guy. Just hate rude people!

3 parks in one day and new record for me! I felt good and still wasn’t feeling full from dinner. At this point people were lining up for the parade and I was headed to get ice cream at the Plaza. The line wasn’t too long and I ended up getting a scoop of strawberry with whipped cream and a cherry. I don’t normally eat strawberry ice cream, but I just wanted something a little different this time. I ate it while watching the parade. I checked my phone and saw that my youngest, Ryan had called a few times and there was a message from my parents. I listened to the message, but could barely hear it since the parade was going past the Plaza. I would listen to it again when I got back to my room. I called Ryan while I was still at MK and the 1st thing he said was “he had bad news”. Freaked me out because I thought there was something wrong with his brother, Philmore or something is wrong with the house or my parents. It was about Ryan trying to get out of going to school on Thursday! I told him to never say that again! But apparently there was a awards ceremony going on and he didn’t want to sit through it. He was really very agitated about it. In fact I talked to Philmore too and he said he has never seen his brother so excited about something that he didn’t want to do! Funny! As I was talking to Ryan I could hear Philmore laughing in the back ground. And as I was talking to Ryan I was walking down the sidewalks of Magic Kingdom trying to get out as quickly as possible, because the parade was over and everyone was waiting for the fireworks. It was surreal! So with Ryan’s “problem” I couldn’t allow him to miss school for Thursday because he already asked about skipping for Friday. Friday was Senior skip day! As it turns out the award ceremony was at NIGHT not during school hours. Let the jokes begin! Phewwww! Too much drama!

I get on the bus at MK and go back to Boardwalk! 3 Parks in one day! When I got back to my room, I basically was tired and fell asleep!

[Tara O'Hara]

Wow! You are having an amazing time!! Your first two days sound magical, Kate, and I can't think of a better way to spend your birthday!!

[lovewdw2]

Thursday, May 21st:

Today was my 50th Birthday! The alarm woke me up at 7am! Remember I was waking up before the alarm! Not this morning though. I opened the curtain and the doors and in the distance I saw 3 hot-air balloons! I saw that my Mom texted me, Dad texted me- said something about lying about my age because it would make my parents look younger (it was a joke), and got a text from both my sister, Jenn and my brother Rob! I did listen to that message from my parents. (The night before Philmore reprimanded me because I was not suppose to listen to the message until my birthday!) The message was all four of them singing: Mom, Dad, and Philmore & Ryan. It was so cute and unexpected. I had to be out of my room by 8;30am because the horseback riding started at 9:30am. (Actually it was at 10am but they asked me to be there by 9:30). I caught a cab because the bus would have took longer and I would have had to get up earlier too. The far cost me $15.60 and I gave him a $20.00. It was nice to take cab instead of a bus!

He drops me off near the horse ranch. I walk over to the office. The weather at that point was cool and sunny, but then again it was early morning too. I had to be weighed so that I was not over 250 pounds. However it was a good thing because I had lost 2 pounds while being in Disney since Monday! I guess with all the walking! So I paid the cost which was $46.00 for a 45- minute ride.

Getting there early ended up making me wait for awhile. I was the 1st but then 8 more people came up. Then Meredith came up, she was one of the 2 people that would be helping us. We all had to wear helmets. I adjusted mine. There were lockers which you had to use if you had backpacks and no cell phones either on the trail. Meredith said we could take pictures after. Anyway since I was 1st I got a horse named Dash. He was a big white horse. He was little antsy and didn’t like to wait. Getting on him was not a problem. Of course it has been quite a long time since I last rode a horse. Meredith led him over to the gate with me on him, as we both waited for everyone to get on their horses. At one point there was another horse next to me, Cooper and the young woman was from United Kingdom. We chatted briefly and she said to me that I had a “good seat” LOL! Something made me a little scared, Dash either jumped or his hind legs went out, but I got scared either way. He tried opening the gate with his teeth. I kept reassuring him. It was getting hot in the sun too. Finally Kevin, who was leading us and Meredith, was in back, we started riding. We had to cross the road, so the cars had to stop and it freaked me out because I was afraid that Dash would get scared too, but he didn’t. Prior to riding we were told that there were plenty of “snacks” along the way and we had to curb our horse to not part take. They showed us how to use the reins too. So on the trail, it was pretty much shaded, saw real grass and bushes and trees. At one point the trail was grassy. Dash did take 2 snacks; the 1st one I wasn’t paying attention to him and he knew that! 2nd time- it was hanging over his head so he had to grab it. I asked questions about the horses to Kevin. I heard Meredith talking and she was funny. Halfway through the ride, I started to get a headache and normally don’t really get them. I moved my helmet a bit and it stopped. I did see 2 butterflies.

Dash was a good horse! It was a very beautiful ride even for my Birthday! I was glad I made plans to do this! But getting off the horse was another story. During the ride I didn’t realize that my inner thighs and legs were not relaxed, holding on. Meredith brought Dash back to where the landing was and I was having trouble swinging my leg over the saddle. I finally got off, but my legs were very sore along with the muscles too. But then I was able to get my cell phone, not sure how I made it down the few steps, but then back up the steps all so Meredith could take a picture of me and Dash. After everyone got off the horses, I asked questions about the horses to Kevin & Meredith. They loved their jobs! I thought how lucky they were able to say that and to do what they enjoy most too. The horses that do the trail riding will get baths. On the 3rd day is the horses’ day off. They were the 2 nicest “cast members” I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with and loved their humor too. So I collected my backpack out from the locker and noticed on my left palm, there were 2 bite marks, which were swollen. Also it itched and hurt at the same time. I poured some water on it. I went to the bus stop and waited for the bus that would take me to the boat. The bus was empty and was walking towards the boat. I stopped in the bathroom near the Hoop De Doo to wash my hand. Came back out and headed down to dock. I had not been on one of these boats since 2012. What a beautiful ride, with the sun shining on the water and I sat at the back of the boat. Of course when I got on the boat the Captain (she was the only one driving) saw my button and sang happy birthday to me, with everyone else on the boat too. It was sweet! I got off at the Contemporary and took the monorail to Epcot.

I was getting hungry and headed to Japan. I went into the Katsura Grill and ordered Teriyaki chicken with veggies and rice. I got a salad with the sesame dressing (my favorite) and a Coke. (I needed some caffeine and sugar). Well I was unpleasantly surprised because the chicken was awful. It looked like it was rejected dark meat; leftovers. I didn’t bother eating it. But the white rice, veggies, and the salad were just delicious, even the Coke too! What a huge let-down about the chicken teriyaki! I even ate with chopsticks too! I sat outside too, under a tree and umbrella. It was very relaxing too to be out of the heat and having some down time too. After lunch I went into the Japan store- the big one. I didn’t see anything I truly needed, so I left and decided to get a Kaki Gori. I got the rainbow one and as I was waiting in line it started to rain. I ended up finding a dry spot under the overhang at the Kaki Gori place, and shared it with 4 other people. My fast pass for Character meet was at 1pm I just didn’t feel like I wanted to walk back and I was too tired and hot. The timing was off! So once the rain stopped I walked towards France, I wanted to see Ana. But before that I stopped at Morocco to get a Henna, for my Birthday! I couldn’t find one I liked, so she created one and included a butterfly! She added glitter too.

But I decided to let my Henna dry, so I sat in the corner of France, back where Aurora is stationed, but past her there are benches; on the other side of the stores, like Dior. I needed to do some writing in my journal, catch up with what I did. As I was writing this very nice cast member, who collected trash, came over to where I was and we had a very nice conversation. At the end he told me I was beautiful! We parted and I continued to write. I guess it was 15 minutes later; he came out and went over to me again. Yeah I was still writing! We had a 2nd conversation. He will be turning 40 on October 24th, doesn’t look 40! He has been working for Disney for 15 years, they gave him a pin. We chatted about what he does and where he eats that isn’t Disney. He likes Subway! Then when we parted again, he called me beautiful again. For the life of me I cannot remember his name! I will make sure to go in that area again when I go back to Disney, to see him again. He was VERY sweet!

I then got up after writing and realized how stiff I became but I went into the Dior store and who do I see? Ana! That was one of the Best things for my Birthday! I am not sure if she remembered me, but it seemed like she did. I told her how I came in on Tuesday night, thinking that she was there that night and found out it wasn’t, but glad because she didn’t look like Ana, but you never know. It was her manager I was speaking too and told her all about my experience with Ana from last May 2014! Anyway we started talking about perfume. Last year I fell in love with Dior’s Addict (perfect for me, right?). This time I fell in love with Dior’s Blooming Bouquet. The engraver was there too. So I bought it and he was engraving it. Of course I never wear either one to work, only on the weekends and on my own time. I was able to get a picture of Ana and me! It was a VERY good time and well worth my money, which is for sure.

I left France and walked towards United Kingdom. It was hot and humid at this point and I was getting tired. I went into the many shops and was looking for the kids. I ended up buying something for my Mom and sister. I walked out to the back and noticed there was a short line for Mary Poppins. I thought why not? So I did! Got in line and she was just so “supercalafragilisticexpialladoses” (I had to get Ask.com to get that spelled right!). Her handler took pictures, which was strange because I have never done a character meet before! Thanks Abby! You were my Inspiration!

When I got out of United Kingdom, I thought about where I wanted to go next. I didn’t want to do rides, plus I was just so tired and hot. I just didn’t feel it anyway. So I headed to the boat. As I was walking I see 2 young women; one was standing by the trashcan and the other was taking a picture. I walk by them but then I ended up turning around and asking them if they needed me to take a picture. Well, we ended up having a Great conversation! They were drinking Grey Gooses and that is how we started talking. Actually they were here for the day and then onto a cruise the next day. But we talked about their work: So Megan was the one wearing the sunglasses and I was in the middle, then Mikaela was next to me without sunglasses. Megan was a pharmacist in Wisconsin and Mikaela was a pharmacist tech but here in Florida. Mikaela’s boyfriend went to school with Megan, but now both girls are good friends. We chatted about Life and choices. They were inspirational to me as I hope they learned something from me! The picture of me with them, my face looks very happy and relaxed. I have not seen a picture of me that shows that! I of course do not like pictures of me anyway, but I actually like that one. There are a few that I took this trip that I also like.

Anyway we left Epcot, and boarded the boat. They were going to DHS and I was going back to Boardwalk. They did not have a place to stay for the night, but I am sure they found something. I left them and went back to the room. When I opened my door there on the bed was a present with a red Mickey balloon. It was bag that was red and yellow, but the yellow part was where you could put an ice pack. Inside was all kind of goodies; pretzels, jelly beans, crackers, and cookies. It was from my sister and her husband and my niece. It was a VERY nice surprise! I then took a shower and changed my shorts and wore my sandals.

The bus from the Boardwalk was very crowded. I got to Fulton’s Crab House and they sat me in the bar area. I was okay with that. The seats were high but it was still comfortable. My server brought this creamy cheese spread with flat crackers! Delicious! I ordered a Sunset Punch (no alcohol) and it was just so good. I ordered the Caesar salad, King Crab legs which came with corn-on-cob and red potatoes. He brought out bread and told me it was okay to make a mess because the bread was a sour-dough! I was going to get a refill on the Sunset Punch but no refills; it would cost me another $5.00. (I should have gotten another one, but chose an iced tea). There were a lot of crab legs, and I found out that when my server went back to get my dinner- there wasn’t enough crabs and he asked the kitchen to put an extra one. No wonder I couldn’t finish them. I usually can eat them all but not that night. I dipped the red potatoes into that creamy cheese spread- OMG! Then of course I couldn’t eat any dessert, but he brought out a piece of cake. He said I could just stare at it! It was chocolate with raspberry, but the middle had a chocolate- vanilla pudding. I dug that out and ate it. It was covered in rainbow sprinkles too. I was very much filled!

I left and headed back towards the bus stops. It was VERY crowded at DTD, but not surprised. I called my Mom and was watching this “car” in the water, but it was a boat too. So since couldn’t take a bus from DTD I took the bus to the Polynesian. While on the bus I met a couple from Buffalo they just arrived today. When they left it was in the 40’s, of coming here it is HOT! It was a family wedding at the Grand Floridian the next day.

I walked into the Polynesian and immediately I was not happy about the centerpiece of the lobby! OMG! It went from huge to tinny tiny! Water trickled in the front, but not in the back. Very strange! It was like the floor and furniture was more important than the centerpiece. Whereas before the centerpiece was the attraction! So then 2 Photopass photographers came up to me and they felt the same way as I did. Talked a bit with them and then one of them took my picture with my phone to give it scale. I did see a Mickey icon on the floor. It didn’t really belong there. I went into the store and thought about not going to MK, but decided I should see fireworks on my Birthday!

The fireworks were Awesome! There were a lot of people waiting too. But I didn’t really like the show with the fireworks. I missed the one where the castle changed with the screens. The Fireworks were Great just not the show part. I was disappointed. Anyway I found this little stoop over by the Confectionery and sat. I waited for the crowds to leave, massive people. By the time I did make it to the bust stop I saw more people waiting for the boats than the buses.

I walked to my room and basically passed out! It was a Great Birthday too!

[chezp]

So glad you had such a wonderful birthday!

[lovewdw2]

May 22nd- Friday

One word: Sore! The muscles in my butt and thighs were so sore; it was hard to sit down anywhere the whole day. I decided to not take anything. My sister had texted me and told me to sit in a bath, not going to happen. My thought was how would I get out of the tub, since I was so sore when I did sit! LOL Also today was the 24 hour at Magic Kingdom. Last year I avoided the park, but this year I was going to go.

I got to Magic Kingdom by 9am because I wanted to do the things before it got too crazy and hot. I walked into the Confectionary and received a free sample of Blue cotton candy. I know it was 9:22am and I was eating it! It kept sticking to the paper, but it was still good. My first pass was the Tea Cups. I have not been on this ride in a VERY long time, plus I don’t like turning rides. But you should not have cream on your hands, because you need to hold the medal holder with both hands. The cup tries to turn you, so I used my hands and thighs to stop it from turning. It is very strong too, but I was stronger! I did allow it to turn but very slowly. I would do this again.

Next ride was the Dwarf Mines. I was able to reschedule this fast pass. I forgot how fast it went and the drops too. I still like this ride better than Thunder Railroad Mountain; it is much smoother ride too. 11:35am was Little Mermaid, but too early to be there, so I rode the Carousel. It has been a LONG time since I rode that. Not even a long line either and I got a horse on the outside too! There was a little girl next to me, who was celebrating her birthday and she was turning 7. She told me that she was having dinner at the castle! Exciting for her!

I then went on the People Mover, forgot how relaxing this ride can be. I got off and headed to the Laugh Floor. This was so funny, I had forgotten how comical it was, so Thank you Darlene for reminding me to hit this one! The poor guy they kept picking on too. I will have to remember to make this a must-do for every trip! Then I walked back to Big Top area and sat in the shade. A band came by playing. I was taking a rest. Then went on Little Mermaid and that was the last one for the day. I did take some pictures of me with the Belle’s Castle and Cinderella’s Castle.

Then I noticed how crowded it was getting! I decided that I needed a break from the crowds and the heat, so I decided to head over to the Polynesian for lunch. Before I left MK, I popped into the Confectionary. I was eyeing the counter again. This time I bought a ginger-bread cookie and a blue sugar- red velvet cake pop! The ginger cookie was soft and yummy. I took a bite of the blue sugar cake pop and was VERY sweet, but I actually like the chocolate cake with just the chocolate-dipped. I only ate half. But I was headed to the Poly for lunch- Captain Cook’s. I again had a tough time deciding on what I wanted again. But I got pulled-pork nachos! OMG! The best Lunch! And of course a Coke too. I didn’t have jalapenos and this spicy mayo was on side too. Wait until you see the picture- these nachos were the best ever! It filled my stomach and cooled me off since I was sitting outside under a umbrella. The place was right by the pool so I bet that is why it was so cool to eat there. With the refills of Coke, I noticed I could refill 2 times but it had a specific times on it- like when it expired. I did not need 3 refills of soda! However I did check out the pastry selection and did end up getting a chocolate-croissant. It wasn’t your basic one; this was long gated and twisted with glaze added on top. Also very good too! Then paying for it became a hassle! Of course everyone else had the same idea as I had to come there for lunch. A very long line and I am glad I came when I did, but there was some problem with the registers, but then I was out in the lobby sitting and trying to not eat the entire croissant. In the middle part of the lobby they were filming a commercial, for Disney.

So yeah after eating lunch and drinking Coke and eating the croissant, I ended up getting a headache. I got back on the monorail, got off, and then took the bus back to Boardwalk. It was just too hot to do anything. At this point the heat got to me. I got back to my room and thought maybe the pool would cool me down, and then take a nap too. The water wasn’t refreshing and I couldn’t fall asleep, so I went back to the room. I closed the drapes, set the alarm to wake me up in 30 minutes. Amazing what a 30 minute nap did for me. I took a shower and got ready to leave for dinner. No more headache either! On my way to the boat, I stopped at the Front Desk- wanted to ask about the turn down service. The cast member was very helpful! The turn-down was free and he set that up for me for Friday and Saturday. The $15.00 fee is for people that need their room freshened up, if they missed the maids in the morning.

My dinner was at Chef De France at 6:00pm. I walked to Epcot and went right to France. Again I was early and I had to wait. I was sat at this little table for 2, but so close to the family that was on my left. I wasn’t very hungry but I could eat though. I ordered light this time. Plus it was very noisy too, hard to have a conversation. I ordered the French onion soup with a salad with a vinaigrette, French bread and a iced tea. Well I was very disappointed with the French onion soup. I counted 4 onions! I didn’t eat it all, because it was mainly broth and some cheese. The salad had brown dressing but that was good and so was the bread with butter. I was glad that I ordered lightly, but still the soup should have been better. As I was eating I was checking out the family next to me. It looked like they got the meal deal; where you ordered an appetizer, meal, and dessert- a paid meal which included all of this. However I was really checking out their desserts. There were 4 of them and they all ordered 4 different desserts. I did not have any room for dessert, but my server brought something out for me anyway. It was a pastry shell with ice cream in the middle and lots of chocolate sauce too. I ate very little because I was still very full from lunch too. This dinner was the only meal I was disappointed with and may not come back. I was done by 7pm.

I made my way back to the boat, but I ended up getting a sweatshirt for me, a zipper one. Then I was onto to the boat. I was headed to DHS because I wanted to see the fireworks for the Star Wars weekend! The fireworks did not start until 9:30pm. I had plenty of time to shop, which I did. There was music playing and lots and lots of people, right down the main street. I ended up watching it on the big screen. When it started they brought out the characters from all of the movies, of Star Wars. Then the Fireworks started with the music! Let me just say one word: AWESOME! I videoed tape some of it… just fantastic! Thank you Wanda for telling me about this! I just watched it again and I got chills. The music is just so great and with the fireworks and watching it in Disney! What a powerhouse! I waited until the crowds left, because it was way too crowded for me. Of course when I got to the boat, there was a long line. I could have walked back to Boardwalk but I was tired and was not interested in walking. I ended up having a conversation with the man in front of me, who brought his mother and daughter to Disney. They were from Buffalo. I didn’t wait too long, then when I did get on the boat, I had to stand, or actually lean. I met another family and they were from Scotland, her accent was so pretty.

When I got back to Boardwalk and into my room, before collapsing- both beds were “turned-down”. The pillows were standing up, all 4, and a card with 4 salt water taffy- 4 more on the other bed, that I was not sleeping in. the card was black and white and had some inspiration written on it. I was hoping for chocolates! I guess that is another resort! I ate the rest of my cake pop and chocolate croissant.

Then I collapsed! Another Great Day!

[CinderAbby]

What a great trip you're having Kate. I'm glad you're doing all the things you like to do - horseback riding, the meals you like, getting youself the perfume. It doesn't matter the quantity of things you do, it's the quality and I can tell you enjoyed your leisurely paced trip. I'm enjoying it too. I'm sorry you missed out on the character spot but I'm glad you saw Mary Poppins instead. When I get home, I'll have to remind Abby that she inspired you to do that. I hope you did other character greetings too over the rest of your vacation but that I'll find out once you post the rest.

As for the text and the food, you're right. You're going to have to do that for me (if you think of it) A lot of what you're having looks really good but some of the TS locations aren't where we're going so you'll have to remind me of the QS and snack stuff.

[lovewdw2]

May 23rd- Saturday

My last park day!

Since I had to cancel my fast passes for Animal Kingdom and use those at another park, Epcot I decided to go early to do some shopping. It was going to be another hot day! It was crazy busy at AK. I was at the tree of life at 9:17am and there tons of people coming down towards it. I am glad I was planning to stay. I was able to find some great stuff. The safari had a 20 minute stand- by but I just couldn’t take that chance, plus I knew that time would change and it would be a lot longer too. I went to the Rainforest Café because I was looking for umbrellas- they were out. But I got some great photos of the water. As I was leaving AK, I noticed the massive of people waiting to get into AK. It was already so hot too. I walked back to the bus stop and waited to get to Epcot. There were others waiting too. 15 minutes later this BIG bus pulls up, it looked like a DME bus but nothing on it. I asked him if he was going to Epcot and he says yes. I thought it was a joke, but the people started to get on it. So I did too. He was really going to Epcot. He told us that they didn’t have enough bus drivers because of the 24 hour at MK. It felt like an airport bus and I was not ready for that just yet! I met the people on the bus they were from Virginia. They were very nice people.

My first fast pass of the day was at Soarin’ at 11:30am. It was 80 minutes at the stand by when I got there. The fast pass line was long and I had to wait. Then I got pulled because I was a solo traveler, a perk for me. In fact where I sat was right in front! Yeah! I know this ride will have a new movie, but it is still fun to see. When I got off I decided I was hungry for lunch. I stopped at Seasons. I chose the Sweet & Sour chicken, with a Coke and cookie.

I sat down and started eating. Okay so again the chicken was not so good, but better than at Katsura Grill. I did eat a little more and the rice was good. I used chopsticks again. The coke was good because I needed some sugar. I was going to save the cookie for later but I ate it! I left and it was HOT outside. It was about 12:30pm. I did Ellen’s- funny I forgot. I did Spaceship Earth. The Character meet wasn’t until 2:30pm, so I decided to go to World Showcase. I went to Norway- It smelled so delicious there! I walked out right by the ride- and at the waterfall it was boarded up. So Sad! There were these 5 people that were posing in front of the ride itself. It was quite comical but then again I felt for them too! I will post the picture of it. I went to the American Showcase, and wanted to hear the singing. I had to wait but it was nicely air-conditioned inside. But it was well worth it! Beautiful voices! It was 3pm when I left and I just didn’t want to walk back to where the Character meet was, just too tired and hot. (I guess with making fast passes, what you don’t figure in is the weather, how tired you are, and where you are when it is time).Then I got another Henna with a butterfly on my other arm. I left after that to get back to the Boardwalk. My dinner was at 5:25pm at Olivia’s.

I got back to the room and changed my sneakers, and took another shower. I got to the bus stop at 4:30pm. By 5pm I was still waiting for a bus to go to MK. I called the restaurant to let them know that bus was late and I certainly was going to show up. They said they would not charge me. Finally at 5:27pm the bus showed up. I don’t know what happened. I sat in between 4 sisters. The one to my left had just finished her 1st year of college, the 2nd sister was a senior in high school, the 3rd sister was sophomore and the youngest was in middle school. But she looked older! I met their Mom too! All so Beautiful! They were headed to dinner at GF Narcosses. I found the bus to Old Key West and again waited for the bus. Met a couple who was going to the same place as me, they were staying at the Polynesian. Finally the bus comes and the driver of the bus starts telling the 3 of us about the theater in DTD, where you can order food right at your seats. Of course he is talking about the food and I am getting hungrier. He was really promoting it. Once we got to OKW we still had a few stops before getting to the main part. Finally we get off and that is when the wife invites me to sit and eat with them. That has never happened! So I agree. I tell the girls at the desk that I am sitting with them, and everything is good. I made sure that my check was separate because I didn’t want them to be burden with it and plus it wasn’t like that anyway. I know the wife did it because of the company. The couple I had dinner with was Dan & Barbara. They were from Kansas City, Missouri. We had a Great conversation over a great dinner. I did not order a salad, but I did get Buttermilk Chicken (boneless chicken with a thick coating), with mashed potatoes w/ gravy, and steamed green beans with a few carrots. The bread was sweet but good. I got the sweet tea and it wasn’t overly sweet. Dan had the special which was pot roast with mushroom gravy with mashed potatoes and green beans too. Barb had the cob salad with shrimp, maybe tuna, and bacon- it looked massive. Barb was venting about her job, and it was good to know I wasn’t the only one that had problems at work! We were there for an hour. We paid our bills (it was a cheap meal for me- under $20.00) and got up and went into the store. Barb and I were still talking. I got a group shot of all 3 of us. Plus Bar and I exchanged emails too. (We have already communicated through email). We took the bus back to MK and they weren’t sure what they were doing but I headed to Mk itself. They weren’t leaving until Monday. It was very pleasurable to eat a meal with another adult.

When I got inside of MK I didn’t have any time to do any rides- which is what I wanted to do. I did go back into the Confectionary and buy some cake pops to bring home. I wanted to get out of MK before the parade started. I did! I took some pictures of me in front of the train. I took the bus back to the Boardwalk. Got back to the room and realized I didn’t get my boarding pass printed. So I went back down to the front desk. A cast member was in training and he printed my pass. Came back up and started packing. I was tired!

Another Great day- the last Park day too!

[lovewdw2]

No worries Darlene.... I will remember to text you!!

Maybe you could email me your schedule, so I know what snacks you can try or not.
Nothing detailed, just like what parks on that day... I am excited for your Trip too!

Your right I did exactly what I wanted and needed to do... had to be slow pace because it was just so dang hot and humid, EVERY DAY! LOL