Sing with me...California Here We Come! Days 7 & 8, updated 12/20
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lauren-roxy · 12-16-2006, 10:16 AM

Sounds like a fantastic day at Universal!! The tour sounds and looked really cool!! LOved the pictures!!! Can't wait for more!!!!

**DebiDebiDebi** · 12-16-2006, 12:51 PM

Your report is so cool. I love the whole Grand Marshall story...I have often wondered how families got chosen, and now I know!

**DyanKJ130** · 12-16-2006, 02:02 PM

Your days have been absolutely perfect!! Can't wait to hear about your second Disney day!

**DrDolphin** · 12-17-2006, 10:21 AM

Wonderful update!! Now I am excited about our US day coming in February!!

DawnDenise · 12-17-2006, 12:55 PM

What a great day at Universal!! Love all the character interactions. Looking forward to more Laura!

Meggera · 12-19-2006, 12:45 AM

Day 4 – November 2, 2006 – Part 1

Side note: My dad is very ill in the hospital, so I am trying to complete this TR very quickly before I leave to see him. This is the ENTIRE Day 4 in one update. It is long. I leave on Thursday. I am going to try to get this finished by then. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

On with the report….

Maxine decided to relax at the hotel today. So, DH, DD, and I got up, ate breakfast, and were out the door to make it to Early Entry at DL. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img]

We were excited to be going back to DL. We took the bus to Disney, got in line and waited for the park to open. When it opened, we took a walk down Main Street. I took a photo of the firehouse without its Halloween décor. Can you spot the Mickey pumpkin they forgot to remove? [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

We were stopped at the rope and waited some more. We forgot that only certain areas of the park would be open, and when the rope dropped, we headed to Frontierland. Ooops! Not open. We knew that Fantasyland would be packed with little ones, so we went to Tomorrowland. Guess what we rode first? Buzz Lightyear. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img] Then we rode Star Tours. We can take or leave that ride. But we rode it anyway. We rode Space Mountain again. What a thrill!

We decided to go on over to Fantasyland, and on our way we found King Triton and Ariel’s shell.

There was a cute White Rabbit statue on the way into Fantasyland.

I had to get a picture of the Matterhorn Bobsleds since that was as close as we would be getting to it all trip. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img]

We asked what time the Storyland Canal Boats opened, and the CM told us at noon.

So, we decided to ride Alice in Wonderland. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img] We were all excited about this ride since it isn’t at WDW.

Alice was the cutest ride! We had such a great time riding it.

We rode Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride again and then decided to ride Snow White. I was really looking forward to this ride, too, since it is darker and scarier than WDW’s. I was disappointed when they changed the one at WDW. Oh well.
Then we rode Pinocchio’s Daring Journey. Too cute! We loved all of the different rides not available at WDW.

DL was really getting busy, so we decided to go to DCA in order to ride some of the rides that Maxine can’t ride. As we were leaving, Cruella was in the hub. We stopped to say hello. Victoria asked her how her dalmation coat was coming along, and Cruella glared at Victoria and said, “Oh why did you have to bring that up? It is such a sore subject. It is not going well at all. Not at all!”

It was so funny! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rofl2.gif[/img]

We left Cruella and walked over to DCA. No more candy corn CALIFORNIA. Instead, CALIFORNIA was now candy canes!

Once inside, we went straight to Paradise Pier.

The first thing we rode was California Screamin’. What a great coaster! We all thoroughly enjoyed it.

Victoria and I then rode King Triton’s Carousel of the Sea. The animals were so cute!

Next up, we rode the Sun Wheel. Good grief did I make a mistake! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/foreheadslap.gif[/img] I really wanted to ride one of the moving cars. Oh my goodness! I did not enjoy it at all. I was so ready to get off that thing. It felt like the longest ride in the world. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img] But, I did get this good picture of the bear rock from the top.

I survived the rocking car, and we went to ride the Maliboomer. The CM was great and was so excited that we were going to ride his ride. He was so much fun, we just had to get a picture with him. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

We [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/love.gif[/img] loved the ride! What fun! We made sure to ask the CM when we were done what the shields over our faces were for. He started laughing and asked what we thought they were for. I guessed that they were barf catchers. He said no, that they were actually scream blockers! He said that the hotel had complained about all of the screaming coming from the ride, so they had the shields installed. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rofl2.gif[/img]

We bid adieu to the nice CM and went to the Orange Stinger. Michael and Victoria rode this.

As we left the Orange Stinger, Lightning McQeen and Mater were leaving, but I was able to get pictures as they rode away.

Since we were next to Mulholland Madness, we took a ride on it. It was okay. Not much to write home about.

We then rode the Golden Zephyr. It was a very nice, cool ride. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

I took pictures from the GZ.

When we got off the Golden Zephyr, who did we see? Phyllis! The lady in blue who was manning the treat station on Halloween night. We went up to her and said hello. She couldn’t believe that we would actually find her and say hello. We talked with her for a really long time and another CM in blue joined us. His name was Perry. Now, we really like pins, but we aren’t huge traders. We get ones we like and keep them. A little boy ran up to Phyllis and Perry and asked if they had any lanyard pins. They said no. So, the little boy ran off. We asked what he was talking about. Phyllis said that a lanyard pin is a pin that only CMs get, and they can’t be bought. Then, she searched through her pouch and pulled out a ton of different lanyard pins and showed us that they have a hidden Mickey on them. Then, she let Victoria pick one out to have. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img] Victoria picked one that was the Aristocats. Too cute! Thanks a bunch, Phyllis! We thanked Phyllis and said goodbye to both of them. It was very nice seeing her again.

We couldn’t get over the Christmas decorations that were already going up. I had to snap a shot.

We left Paradise Pier and decided to make our way to A Bug’s Land. This totem pole was somewhere around Golden State.

A Bug’s Land is the cutest place! I took pictures of Victoria with all of the statues of characters from the movie. The first thing I wanted to do was ride Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train. I read so much about how cute it was. The entrance to Flik’s Fair was ready for Christmas, too.

On to the Chew Chew train. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

It was so cute, and it smelled so yummy! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]

Victoria then rode Tuck and Roll’s Drive ‘Em Buggies. Cute little bumper cars.

The restrooms…

We left A Bug’s Land.

I was ready to go to Boudin Bakery and Mission Tortilla Factory. We walked over and were disappointed to see that the Tortilla Factory was closed. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img] So, we went to Boudin, got our free sample of sourdough bread [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/yuma.gif[/img], and watched how they make bread. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

We then made sure we rode Soarin’ and were on the top row. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/waytogo.gif[/img]

We hadn’t been to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot at all and decided to check it out. We ran into Pluto in Sunshine Plaza. He was so playful!

Off to Hollywood Pictures Backlot…

While there, we saw Mr. and Mrs. Incredible.

Then we saw Gideon. He kept hugging Victoria and wouldn’t let her go. Maybe he got really excited that someone actually knew his name. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rofl2.gif[/img]

We went into Disney Animation to look around and go to Turtle Talk. TT had just begun so we had a look around. There were neat backdrops, great for photos!

We decided to come back to TT with Maxine and wanted to ride Monsters, Inc. Outside, we saw Goofy all dalled up.

Monsters, Inc., was just too cute. I loved everything about it. Here are quite a few pics of the outside and of the ride itself.

Roz asked Victoria at the end if those were her real ears. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img] Too cute!

After our ride through Monstropolis, we saw Gepetto and got his autograph.

We were going to see Aladdin on Saturday here at the Hyperion Theater.

The Tower of Terror was beckoning us. How could we not give in to its call?

What a rush! We enjoyed the differences from the one at MGM. We loved the whole experience. Victoria swears it is faster than the one at MGM. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

After ToT, California Screamin’ was screamin’ for DD and DH. We went back to PP. I was getting a headache, so opted out of riding. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img] But, I happily took pics of my family on it.

We walked back to Pacific Wharf to see if the tortilla factory was open. It wasn’t. :sad: However, I did catch a whale of a fish. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

We walked past A Bug’s Land and saw Flik, so we had to stop and say hello.

We decided to go back to DL before our dinner reservations at Rainforest Café. We were going to go back to the hotel to pick up Maxine for dinner. On our way out of the park, Michael thanked a CM who was sweeping up garbage for keeping the park so clean. He said she did a great job. Well, she was just thrilled to be recognized for her job and pulled out all of these stickers to give to Victoria. The best ones were "Honorary Sweeper" stickers. Too cute! Victoria put them all over her shirt.

It was amazing how quickly Disney got rid of the Halloween décor. They even had a new Mickey up.

When we went inside, we saw our parade driver from Halloween night, Vern. We stopped to say hello and get a picture with Vern and the fire engine. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

We left Vern and decided we needed to see Critter Country since we hadn’t been over there yet. So, that is where we went. We got to see Pooh.

And then Tigger…

And we were told that Eeyore would be coming back out. So, we waited and waited and waited. No Eeyore. Michael found a CM to see if Eeyore would be coming back, and they said no. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cry.gif[/img] I was so sad. But, I did get my picture made with his banner. It was some consolation, but not much.

Michael said he would go on back and get Maxine and would meet us at the Rainforest Café. What a sweetie! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/thanx.gif[/img] Michael!

On our way to the front of DL, Victoria and I decided to go on the Jungle Cruise. It was awesome in the dark. We had a great tour guide and made it safely back to civilization.

We made our way to the front of the park and then headed to DTD. Rainforest Café is all the way at the end of DTD from the park side. We enjoyed our walk though, and it was Victoria’s first time in DTD here. There was a cool display of POTC stuff.

World of Disney looked fantastic. I couldn’t wait to go in there and really shop.

And, the trees were decorated for Christmas. Very nice.

We finally found the Rainforest Café, and I checked us in.

We weren’t there five minutes when Maxine walked up. She said Michael was parking the car. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img] No sooner did Michael walk up, then we were shown to our table on the second floor.

We ordered our drinks and ordered the pita quesadillas appetizer. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/yuma.gif[/img] As for our meal…

Michael ordered some sort of special with steak, coconut shrimp and ribs.

Victoria ordered Jurassic Chicken Tidbits.

Maxine ordered the Fish and Chips.

And I ordered the Shrimp Platter – Shrimp Scampi, Coconut Shrimp and Shrimp Embrochette with sweet mango and lemon butter sauces. It was all excellent!

We enjoyed it all very, very much. We had notified our waiter that we were celebrating Victoria’s birthday this week, and they brought her a special birthday treat. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

We settled our bill and decided to head back to the hotel. It had been a very long, eventful day.

The best thing today was the thrill rides!
The worst thing today was ummm…[img]/ubb/images/graemlins/ukid.gif[/img]….I guess not getting to see Eeyore.
The funniest thing today was Gideon hugging and hugging Victoria. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]
Today we tried the thrill rides!
And the result was we loved it!
The most magical moment today was experiencing different aspects of DL that aren’t at WDW and thanking the sweeper for doing such a great job! Her response was awesome!

Up Next: The San Diego Zoo and a big blister. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/ouch.gif[/img]

**chezp** · 12-19-2006, 01:53 AM

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grouphug.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img]

Another wonderful day - and I can't believe how quickly all the Halloween decorations came down and were replaced by the Christmas ones either. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502no_prv.gif[/img]

scottjs · 12-19-2006, 01:59 AM

Great story. I had no idea about Wendy's cups!!! I just went to Disneyland. Loved it.

**Colexis Mom** · 12-19-2006, 09:45 AM

Great update and great pictures!

Tons of pixies for your Dad [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grouphug.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img]

Meggera · 12-19-2006, 12:07 PM

Day 5 – November 3, 2006

After our long day yesterday, you’d think we would sleep in. NOT! We’re on vacation! We must arrive home more tired than when we left! We woke up bright and early. However, I woke up with a HUGE, painful blister on my left foot. You see, I had sprained my left ankle one week before we were to go on this trip and had stayed off of it for a week. I guess with all of the walking we had been doing, a blister was inevitable. I would just have to deal with it. I put bandaids on my blister and took more with me just in case. We all ate breakfast and were our the door by 8 a.m., headed for the San Diego Zoo. Victoria was still tired and slept in the car on the way there.

We arrived around 10 a.m., and Michael dropped us off at the gate, and he parked.

We got Maxine’s wheelchair and learned that the bus tour was included in our tickets. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img] We knew we wanted to do that right away. So we went in search of the boarding area. (I am going to go by the pictures as to what we saw and when we saw them. I am not writing as detailed as I normally would.) On the way we saw the flamingos.

We walked through a beautiful Japanese garden where there were huge goldfish in a pond with some ducks and turtles.

We loved all of the different plantlife at the zoo. They had plants from all over the world. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

We kept walking towards the tour loading area and noticed that it would be a few minutes before the next tour left, so we kept walking and ran across some cute koalas. They were sleeping.

Then we saw my favorites – elephants! I [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/love.gif[/img] elephants!

Next to the elephants were some llamas. I love their fur. Soooo soft! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]

We started walking back to the tour bus area and saw these cute little critters – the South African Banded Mongoose.

We hit the tour area and got in line. We had to wait for one bus to load up and leave before we were able to board. We were told that a group of school children were going to be on the top level of the bus so we decided to sit on the bottom. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] One of the first animals we saw was a tiger!

We rode on and saw some other animals, then we came to the polar bear. This isn’t the best picture but it is the only one I got because I got too busy videoing this guy. He played and played with that fake ice block in the water. He was so active and had a great time in the water. We stopped and watched him for a really long time. It was great!

Not really sure what this animal is. A yak?

This might be a gazelle. Sorry. I didn’t take notes. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img]

A big bird…[img]/ubb/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img]

I’m pretty sure this is a zebra. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Hmmmm…long neck, long legs, vegetarian…must be a giraffe! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

This one stuck his tongue out at us! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img]

This was a baby giraffe. So cute!

These next animals are all in a circle. Each one is facing a different direction…N, S, E, and W. In the center of their circle is a baby. They face different directions in order to detect any predators that may be on the prowl and to protect the baby. How cool is that? (You can barely make out the baby in the pictures.)

This cute bear was enjoying a morning swim. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]

I think this is the spectacled bear.

I was happy to see a rhino up and about. It looks like he may have been in the water at some point, too, that morning.

We loved the tour and were glad to get a feel for the layout of the zoo. It is HUGE, and we wanted to see as much of it as we could. My bum foot wasn’t going to help too much. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img] Thankfully, now I could take pictures of the signs so I would know what animals I was seeing. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

First up on our journey by foot was the lowland anoa. He stuck his tongue out at us, too. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

Then we saw a fossa. He was sleepy.

More plantlife.

We were in the big cat section now and stopped to see a Siberian lynx. There were three in the cage. We couldn’t get over how short their tails are.

We saw other big cats, but pictures were hard to get because of the fences. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img]

Victoria!

One of Maxine’s favorite animals, and the one she was most looking forward to seeing, was the panda bears. We made sure to head right over there. First, we learned a little more about them. Victoria is in a stump of a tree that a panda might call home.

We had to wait in a line and be very quiet since pandas don’t like noise. It was soon our turn to see the cute pandas.

Mother and baby.

After the pandas, we were all pretty content as to what we had seen. I was walking slow but steady. (I was in a lot of pain. Oh well. The price you pay on vacation. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img])

We came to a bridge and below us were the cutest little monkies. This one has a baby wrapped under her belly. She carried that little monkey all over the place. A zookeeper came around and began feeding them, and every now and then you could see a tiny hand reach out and grab something to eat. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img]

Also over here were the hippos.

We crossed back over the bridge, and as we were leaving this area, I saw the monkies again, and the baby had left its mommie!

We walked up to a bus stop to catch the bus to another stop so I wouldn’t have to walk to much. Thank goodness for the buses! There was a lovely pond with a lot of different birds. We saw lesser flamingos, mallards, African spoonbills, spur-winged geese, shelducks, herons, egrets, cormorants, African darters, saddle-billed storks, red-billed pintails, and whistling ducks. (Impressed yet? [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img])

We rode the bus to another area of the park near the Skyfari. Michael, Maxine and Victoria walked on around to see some other animals. I decided to hang out by the Skyfari. My foot was killing me. They saw a Sichuan takin.

Ah ha! The big bird is a marabou stork. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] He was in an exhibit with the Nubian soemmerring’s gazelle.

Michael saw this bird when he went to Africa. I think it is a crested something or other. Technical, huh? [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img]

The Speke’s gazelle.

After they had seen the gazelles, they joined me where I had been watching this cute parma wallaby digging away in the dirt.

I had also been watching several zulu suni. They ate and ate and ate and ate. They look like teeny tiny deer.

I then pointed out to Michael some reindeer I saw way over on another hill. He digitally zoomed way over there to that hill and actually got a pretty decent picture. I must say, I was impressed. (You have no clue how far away these reindeer were!)

We boarded the Skyfari and loved our ride to the other side. Michael was able to get a good picture of this bell tower that could be heard chiming every hour.

When the Skyfari trip ended, we went towards some bird exhibits. We especially wanted to see the hummingbirds. I decided this would probably be my last exhibits to see. My foot was really aching by now.

We saw more ducks.

Then we found the hummingbird exhibit. Victoria and I went in to find out if Maxine could get in here with her wheelchair. This bird flew up onto the railing. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

There was a little bird in here who whistled the prettiest little tune. He was so cute. We found the tiny hummingbirds and watched them a bit. I went outside and told Michael that Maxine could come in through the exit. I sat down outside and waited for them. This is the bird who whistled so prettily.

And, some hummingbirds.

They left the exhibit, and Michael and Victoria went to the reptile exhibit while Maxine and I waited outside for them. They got to see this huge Burmese python inside!

They also went to see some apes.

On the way back, Michael saw this peacock wandering around. (I think it is a peahen.)

And, he got to see some baboons.

Michael and Victoria joined us, and we all agreed we had seen what we had wanted to see and were ready to leave. We went shopping first in the gift shop. I found a great magnet and some postcards. Michael found a hat and t-shirt he wanted. Victoria got me a cute elephant figurine for a display box I have at home. I’m not sure if she got anything for herself. I don’t remember. Maxine found some things she liked, too. We paid for our things, and Michael went to get the car. Victoria turned in Maxine’s wheelchair, and we walked to the front of the zoo.

Soon, we were in the car and leaving the zoo, Balboa Park, and San Diego. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/zcry.gif[/img] We really want to come back again one day and explore more of Balboa Park next time.

We did eat lunch somewhere in there during the day. I just don’t remember what or when.

We made it through San Diego just fine. I think we left around 3:30 p.m. We had decided to ride home along the coast, and Michael knew which exit he wanted to take. We were glad to know we would be getting out of this traffic. (We hoped.)

We took the exit and didn’t see the Pacific. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img] But, we did enjoy seeing some rather wealthy real estate and towns. We had never before seen Rolls Royce, Ferrari or Bentley dealerships before. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/jawdrop.gif[/img] This must be how the other half lives. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]

We found a place we could pull over and go to the Pacific. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] This is at Aliso Beach Park in Orange County.

Okay, so Michael didn’t do as well with the picture taking. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/blushing.gif[/img] Oh well. I’m still keeping this photo.

This is my attempt at holding the camera steady to get the homes overlooking the ocean. Not too too bad.

We left the beach and were ready to get home and find something to eat. I am pathetic and have no clue what we had for dinner. I think my throbbing foot led to loss of memory.

Anyway, I do know that I soaked my foot in a nice hot tub. DH, DD, and I crashed around 8:30 p.m. (Yes, we were that tired.) Poor Maxine got out of the shower and entered the room to three sleeping beauties. We needed our sleep. Tomorrow was our last day at Disney, and we would be there from 8 a.m. until midnight!

The best thing today was seeing all of the animals!
The worst thing today was the horrible blister on my foot.
The funniest thing today was seeing the animals stick their tongues out at us!
Today we tried the San Diego Zoo!
And the result was we loved it!
The most magical moment today was[b] seeing the little baby monkey leave his mama and eat. It was so sweet!

Up Next: Our last day at Disney. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/zcry.gif[/img]

lauren-roxy · 12-19-2006, 01:41 PM

Great updates Laura!! Your pictures are amazing!! I hope your father is doing better. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img] [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/fairy2.gif[/img]

Meggera · 12-19-2006, 02:19 PM

Thanks for the pixies y'all! He really needs them. Hopefully, I'll have my last day at Disney up by this evening. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

**Colexis Mom** · 12-19-2006, 03:19 PM

What a great day at the zoo! And great pictures! I'm definitely including that in our plans when we go to SoCal [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]

More please [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

**DrDolphin** · 12-19-2006, 09:02 PM

Sorry to hear about your dad, and the blister -- but you've posted such wonderful updates!!! I can't wait for the SD Zoo in Feb!!!

Meggera · 12-19-2006, 10:00 PM

Day 6 – November 4, 2006

Sorry this is so long. But, I did want to get it up. I normally would not write so much or post so many photos at one time. I hope it isn't too boring.

Once again, we woke up bright and early. Thank goodness, my blister didn't hurt me at all today! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img]

We had tickets to get into Toontown an hour earlier than ordinary folks. Yes, we are special. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] We got dressed and headed for the bus. No breakfast at the hotel this morning. This morning, we were eating at Blue Ribbon Bakery. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/yuma.gif[/img]

When we got to DL, the lines to get in were HUGE! Good grief! But, no matter. We patiently waited and made it through the turnstiles. We got Maxine’s wheelchair and headed for Main Street.

People were waiting at the rope so we popped into the bakery to get a huge cinnamon roll for Michael and me to share. Victoria and Maxine wanted a croissant. We also got a couple of OJs and some milk. The cinnamon roll was okay. It was a little too sweet for us. I think we would rather have had a croissant. But, it was still good.

We went to wait for the rope to drop and then headed straight back to Toontown. No stopping. No passing go. No collecting $200. Well, we would have stopped to collect $200, but no one offered.

Anyway, Toontown here just can’t be beat! This was our first glimpse of it. We were enthralled. WDW could learn a little something from DL about how to create a magnificent Toontown. Our family plays Toontown online, and I see now where they get so much of their influence. Right here at DL!

When we walked in, no one was there. I mean no one! We realized that everyone was at Town Hall. Apparently, there is a grand opening ceremony. Since we don’t have a small child, she was up for enjoying the rest of Toontown while she had it all to herself. So, I took a few pictures of City Hall, and then we made our rounds with no one else around. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Goofy’s House…

Donald’s House…

Mickey’s car...

Chip and Dale’s treehouse…

While we were at Minnie’s house, we explored. Her house was just too cute. We couldn’t get over all of the Christmas decorations everywhere, too!

Victoria made a wish into Minnie’s wishing well. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Then we heard everyone running over and knew the ceremony must be over, so we quickly got in line to see Mickey at his house. We were the second ones in line. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/waytogo.gif[/img]

Then we got to explore his home.

We then made sure to get a picture of Mickey’s house since we had not gotten around to doing that yet.

Then we saw Donald, Pluto, and Minnie.

We got in line to ride Gadget’s Go Coaster. What a fun ride!

After the ride, we went to explore Donald’s boat.

Then we saw Goofy at his home.

I loved the “toonhole.” [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rofl2.gif[/img]

Michael, Victoria, and I had to get a picture on the trolley like our toons sit when we play Toontown. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

We had one more stop to make in Toontown – Roger Rabbit’s Toontown Spin. What a fun ride! We all got in our own little taxi and had a great time spinning through Toontown.

Michael was bad and was put in the dog pound.

Once a ham, always a ham…our little ham.

We thoroughly enjoyed getting to play in Toontown before it was opened to the mob. We did everything in under an hour! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img] So, we headed to Fantasyland. I couldn’t wait for Maxine to see some of my favorite rides.

First we rode Alice in Wonderland. I was successful in getting only one good picture.

Next up was Pinnochio’s Daring Journey.

We rode Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Snow White, and Peter Pan. Maxine loved them all, as did we all. They are wonderful rides!

We still had not ridden BTMR, so we headed over there. The wait was really short. We wanted to save the fastpass until we actually needed it. So, we waited about 10 minutes and were on the mine train. What a great queue! I think it is much better than the one at WDW. The ride was just as great!

A nice family in front of us took our picture for us. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/thanx.gif[/img]

I am the only person who had ever been on the riverboat, so we decided to hop aboard the Mark Twain and take a ride down the Rivers of America.

I made sure to get a picture of the Sailing Ship Columbia. It looked as if they would be taking her out soon.

We enjoyed our ride, and Victoria was anxious to go to Tom Sawyer’s Island. Since she had never been, I thought this would be a great place to go…the original. Victoria and I had the best time explorin’ Injun Joe’s cave and Tom and Huck’s treehouse. We had a great time. Maxine was very limited in her wheelchair, and Michael really didn’t care if he got to look around or not. So, he took her through Injun Joe’s Cave and then couldn’t figure out how to get out. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rofl2.gif[/img] So, when I found them, I guided them through the cave the wrong way. I had to keep telling people that a wheelchair was coming through. It was very funny! Some pics…

Sure enough, when we were on the island, we saw Columbia sail by. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

We knew that Storybookland Canal Boats opened at noon, and we wanted to get over and be sure we rode them. So, we left Tom Sawyer’s Island. We headed over to the Canal Boats and boy was that line long. But, with a wheelchair, we bypassed the line and got to ride in the first boat of the day. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

I loved going through Monstro the Whale!

Sadly, I can’t remember what all of the little houses belong to. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img] If anyone knows, I would certainly appreciate the information to put in my scrapbook.

This is from Snow White, I believe.

Is this from Wind in the Willows?

Jasmine’s castle and the lamp.

Cinderella’s village and the castle…

I’m not sure what these are from…

Is this Pinocchio’s village?

This is definitely from the Little Mermaid…Prince Eric’s boat and castle.

I wish they had this ride at WDW. I loved it so much. It is precious.

I finally decided to buy my first set of Mickey ears ever. (Well, Minnie.) I had really been admiring the silver Minnie ears, and we saw a little shop, so I decided to get them. Maxine decided she wanted the gold ones. I think they are very cute and am happy I got them.

We left the shop and ran into Woody and Jessie.

We were headed towards Critter Country to ride The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

We got to ride in a giant beehive, not a honey pot. I did miss the bouncing honey pot though. The ride was very cute.

We had lunch reservations at the Blue Bayou at 1 p.m., so we went to New Orleans Square. I [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/love.gif[/img] loved how it was decorated. It looked fantastic.

We had to wait in a line and be very quiet since pandas don’t like noise. It was soon our turn to see the cute pandas.

I got us checked in at the Blue Bayou and requested to be seated next to the water. She said it would be a 30 minute wait. I said that was no problem. So, I took some pictures, and Michael and I went shopping.

The Blue Bayou…

Michael and I went into a little shop full of crystals and saw these adorable little figurines sitting on cubes that sparkled in the sunlight. Michael asked if they had one with Tinkerbell on it, and they did in the back room! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img] We got it for Victoria and took it to her. She was thrilled!

No sooner did Victoria open her present, then we were called to our table. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img] I walked in and gasped. It was beautiful! Of course, we had seen it two days ago when we rode POTC, but I guess I had forgotten how lovely it was inside. We were seated right next to the water. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img]

Our server arrived and took our drink orders and gave us time to look over the menu. I knew I wasn’t too hungry. So, Michael and I decided to share the Le Special de Monte Cristo. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] The server arrived with our drinks and took our orders. This is what we had.

Victoria started with carrots and celery with ranch dressing. Then she had the prime rib with potatoes.

Maxine ordered the New Orleans Gumbo and the Monte Cristo with potatoes

Michael and I shared the Monte Cristo, but he got gumbo and I ordered the Cajun-inspired wedge salad.

May I say, it was fabulous! Michael said this was his favorite restaurant of the entire trip. I have to agree. It was incredible! We would definitely eat here again.

My pirate.

Michael finally got a good shot of the POTC boat. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

We had told the server that we were celebrating Victoria’s October birthday and Maxine’s November birthday, so they brought them both a birthday sundae.

Michael and I couldn’t be left out in the dessert department, so we ordered the Flying Dutchman Cookie Boat ~ a warm chocolate chip cookie boat, served with vanilla-bean ice cream, caramel and chocolate sauce and it came with the fabulous sail. It was beautiful and good, too. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/yuma.gif[/img]

Our server was kind enough to take our photo.

Then, we were off. What a great meal! We thought we would take a nice boat ride on Pirates, but the wheelchair line was HUGE! And, look at the normal line!

So, we headed to the Tiki room instead. I have been looking forward to seeing this again. I was tickled pink. Michael and Maxine went via a wheelchair lift. We would have to meet them inside.

Once inside, I was taken back to a show I remember from childhood and miss very much. There is nothing like the original. I wish they still had it at WDW. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/pout.gif[/img] Everyone else enjoyed it, too. Dare I say that Michael may even like it better than the new one at WDW?

DL closed at midnight tonight, so we knew we would be coming back and would ride POTC with Maxine later in the evening. DCA closed at 8 p.m., so we wanted to get over there and do a few things we hadn’t done yet. Plus, we had tickets to see Aladdin, and the last show was at 4 p.m.

We left DL and went to DCA. I just love the park hopping at DLR!

Some of us needed restroom breaks, so I took a quick pic of Michael waiting on us. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img]

We went straight to A Bug’s Land to see It’s Tough to Be a Bug. I thought the orange trees were so neat to see in bloom in November!

We got our bug eyes and waited for the doors to open.

I think Maxine got tickled with all the antics of the bugs and the little things that sting you in your seat. We didn’t warn her about any of it. She loved it!

We went to the Hyperion and saw Aladdin. Best show ever!!!!! Hands down!! I wish we had seen it more than once. We left Aladdin, and the Block Party Bash was getting ready to get started, so we staked out a good spot. My husband is the greatest. Maxine and Victoria were getting chilly, so Michael said he would run back to the hotel and get them a sweatshirt to wear. What a sweetie! So, he missed the party, but I filmed it for him. I was able to get a few pictures, too.

The Block Party Bash wasn’t quite what I was expecting. The floats floated on until they came to a resting stop. So, whatever float you happened to be sitting in front of was the one you saw and the people you danced with. Well, no characters were in front of us…just your ordinary people. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/roflmao.gif[/img] Had I known this, I would have picked a better spot. Oh well, you live and learn. Victoria still had fun dancing with the dancers.

We left the party and headed to Muppets 3D. I was able to call Michael and let him know where we were. He met us there right before we were let in to the theatre. I loved the queue to this show better than MGM’s. It was just too cute!

I took a quick picture of the Tower of Terror at night. We only got to ride it once, but it was a great ride!

It was time to leave DCA for the final time. I was sad. But, I was heading back over to DL, so I wasn’t too sad…yet.

Victoria wanted some cookies and milk from Blue Ribbon Bakery, so we got those for her.

We were all excited about seeing the fireworks, but more importantly, about seeing Fantasmic. I told Michael that I was going to walk over to the first showing of Fantasmic and stake out the best spot. Michael, Victoria, and Maxine stayed back to watch the fireworks. I don’t think I have ever been to Disney when it was so crowded. You could hardly walk through all of the people. It was a madhouse!

The first Fantasmic was going on, and I walked and looked and staked. I figured out where I wanted to go to get the best seats for my family. While I was walking, I found the Dole Whip booth. Oh my gosh! I just had to get one of those. I have read so much about them but have never gotten one. I got the Dole Whip Float. It was so yummy! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/yuma.gif[/img] But, I think I would have liked just the Dole Whip better.

Fantasmic ended and a mad rush of people left the area. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img] I walked down to the very front area that is in front of POTC. I sat down on the cold ground and stretched out my legs. I had staked my claim, and NOBODY was taking my spot.

Wishes began. Oh! It was so beautiful! I loved it, even from my seat it was just lovely. Michael videoed it. When it was over, a mad rush of people started getting ready for Fantasmic. Michael called me every now and then to let me know where they were. It was really difficult maneuvering a wheelchair in the plethora of people. Victoria finally found me and ran back to tell Michael where I was. Maxine couldn’t come to where we were because of her wheelchair, so Michael put her in a great spot, and she began talking to the people around her right away. Michael and Victoria joined me, and we waited with bated breath for the show to begin.

It began. It was wonderful. It made me cry. I loved how close everything seemed. I liked the location better than at MGM. It was fabulous!!!! What a great way to end our magical trip to DL. I didn’t take any pictures. I was too mesmerized. Michael did video it though. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/woot.gif[/img]

But, seeing Fantasmic, I knew our time there was short. I started crying. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/zcry.gif[/img] I wasn’t ready to leave. I did not have enough time there. I was very sad.

After a few tears, we saw that the throng of people mostly headed out. Michael was really chomping at the bit to try a Dole Whip, so I went to the Dole Whip place and got him a regular one. It was oh so yummy. He really liked it, too.

We decided we wanted to ride Haunted Mansion one more time. We walked right on.

Then, it was time to ride POTC. The wheelchair line was non-existent. We walked right through and right onto a boat. It was fabulous. I love the new additions of Barbosa, Jack and Davy Jones. I liked the ride better than the one at WDW. It was longer and had so much more going on. It was awesome!

When POTC was over, we knew it was time to go back to the hotel. We were beat. It was around 11:30 p.m., and the park closed at midnight.

I made sure to get pictures of the CALIFORNIA as candy canes.

We took the bus back to the hotel, and once again, we all crashed. We were exhausted.

The best thing today was Aladdin and Fantasmic!
The worst thing today was the crowds that evening.
The funniest thing today was getting Maxine out of Injun Joe’s Cave the wrong way!
Today we tried the Blue Bayou!
And the result was that it was absolutely fabulous!
The most magical moment today was seeing Fantasmic.

Up Next: A day of relaxation and shopping.