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[PrincessSharon]

Thanks for all your nice comments!

Originally Posted by lexiemom

It looks like you had a great time at the party! I just love all of your pictures. All of your pictures with the Villains came out great, I especially like the one with Dr. Facilier.

Lexi is really into the Tinkerbell movies right now, and the outfit Tink is wearing looks like the one from Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure which is set in the Fall, so maybe she is wearing it because its her Autumn look?

Oh, and thank you for the Truffle recipe! It looks so easy to make I am going to try those out at Christmas time this year.

Thanks! That makes sense about Tinkerbell.

Originally Posted by honeybee723

All caught up! That chocolate seminar looked wonderfully chocolatey!!! Looks like you were really able to enjoy yourself at MNSSHP. I've still never been to this party, since Halloween isn't really my thing, but now that I have a child, I can see that changing in the futurel



I just had this same exact conversation with a friend of mine who was trying to find a costume of Wendy to wear with her family at MNSSHP. Wasn't possible because there was no innocent versions of the costume only slu ...sexy costumes.

Halloween isn't my thing either, but MNSSHP is definitely my favorite party. You just get to do more special, party only stuff than any other party. And next year I should open a costume shop that sells only non-sexy costumes. I'll make a fortune!

Originally Posted by mcc0313

Looks like a delicious afternoon at the F&WF. I too am not a mac & cheese person for the very same reason. I won't eat the box stuff, if it is too creamy, bright yellow orange not for me either...but give me some good baked mac and cheese, with some hot sauce and I am good to go.

The chocolate seminar sounded so interesting (and yummy) at the same time. Thanks for supplying the recipies and I am so glad that Jasmine's negative review did not ward you off from trying the mole. From what I have heard it is all about the preparation, I have told this to Jasmine so I am hoping she gives it another try one day (will have to let her see your review )

Great fun at the party, love all the villan meets, Tink is wearing her outfit from teh great fairy rescue, it is more like her traveling outfit (yes I own and have seen them all repeately....I blame it all on Angel )

I knew some smart Passporters out there would be able to answer my question about Tinkerbell. Another question? Are the movies worth seeing?

Originally Posted by disney_duke

Looked like a great time at MNSSHP!! I agree on the photos of the parade. It's hard to figure out flash or no flash, especially with the giant, blinding spotlights they have scattered along the route. But your shot of the horse is awesome! Oh, and I noticed the same thing with the slu... too sexy costumes too. I don't get it.

Oh yes, the spotlights make it even more difficult! Luckily, the spot I found this time didn't have one shining right at me.

Originally Posted by Caldercup

Oh, I was *waiting* for that!!

I tried to be subtle this time. But you know, I think I may be Clara Cluck's biggest fan. If I ever spotted her in the parks, I would freak the freak out!

Originally Posted by shnewell

Sounds like a great afternoon at Epcot. That Belgian waffle looked so good I wanted to reach through my computer screen and grab it.

The chocolate seminar sounded fun. How long did it last?

MNSSHP looked like a blast. You got to see and do quite a bit! And I'm cracking up about your description of "Mini" Mouse. I don't understand that trend in women's Halloween costumes at all. This year, I dressed up as Hermione from Harry Potter -- big, loose black robe, white shirt, Gryffindor tie, jeans and sneakers. Now that's my idea of a good costume -- loose and comfy!

The seminar was about 2 hours I guess. And see my above comments about my non-sexy costume store.

Originally Posted by KMB733

Sounds like a great time at the party!! I saw some of those sexy costume at Disneyland. Although, I didn't see a Mini Mouse one. Your decription had me cracking up!

I think she's the worst I've ever seen. Most people try to tone the sexiness down, not ramp it up!

Originally Posted by ilovedisney247

It sounds like a great party! We saw some rather "unfortunate" costumes on Tuesday night! I'm just glad we had the good sense not to be one of them! I agree that the Halloween fireworks are the absolute best of any that I've seen so far. Although, Fantasy in the Sky is on my To Do list--but I think the Studios only does them on NYE and 4th of July, so I don't know that I'll ever want to brave those crowds.

Thanks so much for the easy Truffle recipe--I think I'll try making them for a treat for my coworkers for Thanksgiving.

I've seen Fantasy in the Sky, but not the special holiday versions. It's my dream to spend NYE at the parks at least once, but I doubt I'd pick the Studios as the park I'd want to be in.

Originally Posted by goofyboysmama

How can the Boo to You Parade be my favorite when I've never seen it in person?!

Because it's awesome! I love the music, too!

Originally Posted by goofyboysmama

I'm lol because of your trick or treat haul - I just read jennie622's TR where she says things like "slim pickings" and "diddly squat" to describe her loot!

We definitely had different experiences! Maybe because I did it later in the party, I had better results?

Originally Posted by cubfancolleen

You got a good amount of candy in your bag! Nicely done!
Thanks for the truffle recipe - I may try making them as gifts for Christmas I think.

And the slu...inappropriate Mini-Minnie?! I think she should be banned from Disney for life! Fishnet thigh highs and stilettos?!?! Seriously?!?! Mickey would have a CORONARY!

OMG, I can imagine poor Mickey's reaction to seeing her. He'd turn sixteen shades of red!

Originally Posted by Big Baloo

Thanks for posting the recipes--I will definitely be making the truffles!
Looks like you had a lot of fun (and walking!) during the party--great pics of Dr. Facilier (sp?) I would love to go there some time during a holiday! Any holiday. Arbor Day, even!
Looking forward to more!

Even the non holidays are great to spend in Disney.

Originally Posted by disneydani

Okay, let me be the first to wish you a happy birthday....three days late...

Chocolate seminar sounds absolutely delish and I am definitely going to give those recipes a try....thanks for posting them.

Sounds like an awesome night at MNSSHP, glad your parade wasn't plagued with problems.

Danielle

Thanks for the birthday wishes. I think a lot of people will try the truffle recipe because it's so easy! Even me!

Originally Posted by MosyBliss

Okay, your candy bag was way better than mine was last year! I pretty much got smarties and werthers....in fact I think I still have some stuffed in a drawer somewhere. I just can't bear to throw away anything from Disney World even if it is just crappy candy.
I love all the pictures...I never think of meeting all the villains...I usually just kinda walk around in a fog taking everything in.
So a side note to your slu...sexy "mini" mouse. Last year we saw a lady with her two young kids at the party. I am not sure what she was dressed as but her dress was lace...just lace. She had some very tall stiletto boots. So we're standing there nonchalantly...just hanging and and she comes over and asks us where the bar is! Umm, this is main street USA not Bourbon street! I politely informed her that there was no bar in the MK and she said "Well, where can I just get a beer?" Now I understand wanting a drink BUT didn't you spend money on these tickets lady?! Didn't you realize the host of the party was Mickey Mouse?! I think maybe there was some mis-communication...somewhere.

Can't wait to read more!

Last year I got a lot of wacky candy. I got a ton of those weird gummy hamburger things. Ugh! And the only chocolate were those chocolate eyeballs and shapes, which were nasty! Oh, and lots of Tootsie Rolls. This year was MUCH better. Can't imagine what that woman in lace was thinking. Some people!

Originally Posted by jennie622

Um, happy belated birthday to you!!!!

how did you get so much candy in such a short amount of time??? We went thru every line and got like nothing. I know, I know I sound like a whiner but I hadn't been t or ting in over 20 years so I was super excited. Maybe waiting in those crazy long lines for Jack and the Dwarves caused us to lose out on loot but it was worth it in the end.

Your descriptions of Mini Minnie were hysterical. Makes you wonder what folks are thinking?? Makes you kinda glad that adults can't wear costumes year round doesn't it??

Thanks for the birthday wishes! And it's funny we had such different TOT experiences. Maybe the CMs felt sorry for me? I think it was because it was so late (and my bag was completely empty at first). I did have one or 2 CMs give me like 2 pieces. I wanted to tell them not to be so stingy, but I didn't want them to tell ME not to be so greedy! And yes, I'm really glad adults can't wear costumes outside of the parties. Yikes!

Originally Posted by lauriep

Ooh, great photos of the party! I love your new sig pic-- are you losing a lot of weight? How is this possible when you're always at WDW or DLR or ITALY??

It was the August trip with the family! It was so hot I had like no appetite. And I'm happy to say I didn't put the weight back on. Disney diet!

Originally Posted by chezp

What a great time at the Party - you certainly packed a lot in! I see nothing's changed with the costumes, as that was our experience the last time we were there. We were staggered by the skimpiness of some outfits, especially as you say for a family event.

Right, it's the family event part that really makes me scratch my head! Think people!

Originally Posted by goofysdtr

Okay, that seminar sounds wonderful! I almost licked my screen.

Oh, & you had me clucking along with the parade! I'm such a nerd.

I was clucking too, so I won't call you a nerd.

Originally Posted by Principessa_di_Fata

I almost started crying when I saw the kielbasa and pierogie... I'm dying for that again. And wow, what a good haul of candy from the party. We did fairly well, but not nearly as well as I'd have hoped - but then again we focused on characters and rides - something I'll change up a little next year!

I hardly did any rides. It's hard to do rides, parades/shows, characters AND candy. Usually you have to pick one thing that isn't important.

Originally Posted by JoanneS

Thanks for the recipes! Your candy haul was much better than mine. I went to the party the Tuesday after your party. I got all of 4 pieces of chocolate and the rest of the candy was airheads, tootsie rolls (lots of tootsie rolls) and smarties. I think I got hosed.

I guess I scored then! But I like Tootsie Rolls, so I wouldn't have minded some of those. Just not those nasty eyeballs and all those stupid gummies and the little chocolate foil-covered shapes that they gave out last year. So cheap!

Originally Posted by OhToodles!

First, happy belated birthday!

What a great chocolate seminar! When we went to the Dominican Republic we got to try hot chocolate made from cocoa beans that hadn't been refind or anything.
And looks like you did well at MNSSHP. It was difficult with 10 people to navigate.

Thanks for the birthday wishes. Did you like that hot chocolate? Was it sweet?

Originally Posted by HollyH

Ooooo...I'll be making those truffles for sure! And it does say right in the recipe "best if eaten on the same day" so I have an excuse for gobbling them all up right away . , Sharon!

Ah, Clara Cluck. I'm giggling now at the silliness of "Ghost Riders In the Sky" being clucked. I first heard that thanks to your Eat, Play, Cluck TR. I must go to MNSSHP again just so I can experience that in person.

Yes, needing to eat them while they're fresh will cause them to disappear quickly at Christmas. Of course with my family, needing them to set up for a long time wouldn't matter - they would still disappear quickly. And if you ever saw me watching the parade and clucking along, you'd probably crack up!

Originally Posted by ilovedisney0_0

If you are pushing around a stroller with a child in it, you should not be dressing like a hoe-bag! Just sayin'. And you KNEW I was going to ask to see the picture! Because I would've taken one. When DD and I were on our cruise in March, there was some mom in her mid-to late-30's dressed like a hoe-bag pirate. Wanting to take a picture with her husband and kids. SERIOUSLY? This is a family enviornment, think about that stuff before you get dressed! Sheesh! In fact, EVERY person in line was trying to stealthily (I think I made up a word ) take a picture of her. It was so bad!

I think your haughty look was perfectly perfect! You could definitely be the next evil princess with that look, if you so choose!

Amy, you just cracked me up so hard! I was trying to be all polite and you just bust out and call her a hoe-bag. I'll be scaring tourists on the subway tonight with my random spurts of laughter when I keep thinking about it!

Originally Posted by Coop

Yay! All caught up! The MNSSHP sounds like fun! The chocolate seminar sounds great too! I make truffles every Christmas - thanks for the new recipe! I know what you mean that chocolate can be hard to pair with wines. I just found the wonders of milk chocolate with a cabernet. (I usually do a cheap version of Hershey Drops with a Beringer Cab - California. It is very yummy). Now time to catch up on all the other TR's before starting mine. Just got back yesterday. TR coming soon - keep an eye out!

Glad you had a good trip! I'll be watching for your TR!

Originally Posted by mom2twingirlies

I actually think it is hard to find an adult costume that isn't slu.... sexy. I had to order one on the internet last year, just to get something "kid friendly" in my size.... very sad

That non-sexy store would make me a fortune! I've had other people tell me the same thing.

[PrincessSharon]

Day Four – Monday, October 17
Eating around WS with Heather and Brandon

I hadn’t set a wakeup call, but I was still up fairly early. I puttered around a little, getting on the internet (I used the in-room wifi, which worked very well while I was using it). Then I got ready and walked to Epcot.

I arrived a few minutes after opening and took my time getting to Soarin’. I didn’t think there would be a long wait, but I figured if there was a long wait, I’d grab a FP for later. I was able to walk right on. And bonus, front row, dead center without having to ask! Woohoo!

Then I walked over to the Seas. I didn’t really care to ride Nemo, so I went in through the gift shop. The CMs were really surprised to see me coming in, especially that early in the morning! I had a look at the tank, which was looking, sadly, a little empty.







Next I did JIYI with Figment. I decided to get some photos of the queue, because I don’t think I have a single one.





And now I have two! I’ll have to get more next time. When I came out, I headed next door to see Captain EO again. When I came out, it was almost time for WS to open (and the eating to begin ). I noticed something peculiar. Belle was there, in her yellow dress, signing autographs. Too weird! I took a photo to show you how she was just plopped into the middle of nowhere.



I’d heard from Heather that they were on the ground so I knew it wouldn’t be too much longer before they joined me. But I started without them. That’s not too rude is it? I’d been wanting to try (after hearing many raves) the pork slider, so I started in Hawaii.


Hawai’i – Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour Dole Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise

Holy cow, was that good! Definitely in my top 3. My only complaint is that they were a little skimpy with the chutney on my portion, but it was so good. Lots of interesting flavors that went very well together. Big thumbs up.

While I was eating, sitting on a nearby bench, I spotted a Hidden Mickey, so I grabbed a pic of it.



Then, Greece. I came close to the souvlaki, but the salad has always been a favorite, so I ended up choosing that. I’d heard good things about the griddled cheese with honey, but I have an allergy to honey, so I figured getting it without wouldn’t be the same experience.


Greece – Greek Salad with Pita Bread

It had more veggies in it than I remember, which is a good thing. This is still a winner, even though it’s a simple thing.

I didn’t want to get too full before Heather and Brandon arrived, so I figured I’d do some other stuff that didn’t involve eating. I started with O Canada. I like this film a lot, and it always makes me want to visit Canada. I’m thinking of Niagara Falls (the Canadian side) for some time in 2013 maybe.

Then I did a bit of window shopping and more strolling. When I got to Japan, I figured I needed to get something, but I didn’t want to fill up, so I got an adult beverage.


Japan – Tokyo Sunset

My guilt at drinking an adult beverage before noon was compounded by the CMs cheerfully saying “good morning!” to me. Why can’t they just say “hello” and let me indulge in my sketchy behavior in peace? After that, I decided not to drink before noon, so I wouldn’t have to hear them be all, “Good morning, alky, here’s your cocktail!”

My gift card was running low, so I took the opportunity to refill it while the lines were short everywhere. The CM who helped me asked me about what I tried and highly recommended the seared beef in South Africa. Noted!

Next up was a must do for me, the Voices of Liberty. My timing was perfect – they came out about 2 minutes after I arrived.





I think it was a little dusty or something in there, because my eyes kept watering for some reason.

Then, I stuck around for the American Adventure show.



Continued…

[PrincessSharon]

I stopped for a bit in Italy to watch Sergio’s act. He’s quite good at juggling, and I always envy people who know how to juggle, because I’d love to do it myself. I can juggle two balls at a time, so I’m not very good.

I wandered over to Germany to look in on the miniature residents celebrating their mini Food & Wine Festival.























Too cute! I figured Heather and Brandon should be getting to the park soon (we’d been texting back and forth), so I decided to make my way to the FW/WS plaza and meet them there. However, I couldn’t pass South Africa without getting the seared beef. After all, I’d promised that one CM I’d talked to!


South Africa – Seared Filet of Beef with smashed Sweet Potatoes and Braai Sauce

I thought it was delish! The beef had a bit of heat to it, and the sweet potatoes were nice and fluffy. Another good choice.

In Mexico, I went inside and did El Rio del Tiempo. It’s sorta cheesy, but I enjoy it (and I love the catchy tune and usually end up singing it for a while after riding). As a tribute to Donald, Panchito and Jose Carioca (I guess mostly Panchito, because he’s Mexican), I had to sample something from the Mexican kiosk.


Mexico – Crispy Shrimp Taco (Chipotle Lime Mayo and Cabbage on a Flour Tortilla)

Hoo boy! That was delish! The shrimp were nicely crispy without being rubbery. Very good. Another top three item! I had so many good things, it’s hard to single out one as a favorite, but this would make the short list – even with the cabbage, which I don’t love.

Heather and Brandon were entering the park, so I found a place to sit and wait for them. When they arrived, we exchanged hugs (it’d been too long since I’ve seen them). Heather had a very cool voodoo doll for me. again Heather! I figured I’d done enough eating that I didn’t care what we hit, so I let Heather make all the decisions from this point on.

I don’t remember exactly where we stopped first, but I’m pretty sure it was Australia. Heather already wrote this part up in her TR, so I’ll just add what I ate.


Australia – Lamington (Chocolate and Coconut Covered Yellow Cake)

It was good, but after a few bites, the coconut got to be a bit much. I wish I’d had a smaller portion. I also had some of the potato-goat cheese salad that comes with the grilled lamb chop. It was very good, even if the texture of the potatoes was a little off.

We hit Mexico next, and though I was tempted to get another shrimp taco, I was determined to try at least one of everything on my “to try” list before getting repeats. Unfortunately, I never got to everything on my “to try” list, and I didn’t get any repeats of my favorites either. I’m thinking I may have to rethink this strategy next year.

We found a table inside to eat, and I think Heather and Brandon liked the shrimp taco as much as I did (though there were a few murmurs about the non-juicy lime slices we’d received).

The next place I got something to eat was South Korea. I got the lettuce wrap. I don’t seem to have a photo of it (not bad, I only forgot once!), so I’ll steal Heather’s photo!


South Korea – Lettuce Wrap with Roast Pork and Kimchi Slaw

This was another winner. Top 3 for sure. The pork was so good, and the kimchi slaw added just the right amount of heat (I am kind of a wimp ). Mmm-mmm-mmm!

I remember we often had trouble finding a table, but I will admit that there seemed to be more around than last year. It’s just that they really can’t put enough tables in and still leave room for people to be able to walk around.

We stopped in the U.S. and Heather and Brandon got something to eat. I remember commenting to Heather and Brandon that Disney really cheats with the vegetarian options. It seemed like there was at least one vegetarian option available at each kiosk, but upon closer inspection, it was usually a dessert. I think that’s dopey – I like my desserts to always have meat in them. Seriously, though, it was a huge cheat and they bragged about vegetarian options but I don’t really think they tried. But it seems like they’re aware that people want an option, so perhaps things will get better next year for my vegetarian friends out there (hey Laurie ).

Heather wanted to do Impressions de France (note to self: burn Heather’s CD). I enjoy the film a lot, and as a bonus, you get a comfortable seat inside. We poked around the gift shop, checking out the little berets with “France” on them. I can totally see a French person wearing that!

Heather and Brandon were ready to head back to AKL for a break, and I was ready to head to the MK for the evening (H&B would be meet me at the MK later). We all walked out together, stopping to check out some ears for Heather. I have to say I’m disappointed that Heather didn’t buy a set of ears, because I love seeing her collection grow (and also, they look pretty dang cute on her ).

We parted ways at the entrance – they headed for the bus stop and I hopped on the monorail, hoping to meet up with Melanie again.

Up Next: An evening with PassPorter friends

[disney_duke]

Mmmm, yum, lots of good eats around the World! I also loved that Pork Slider from the Hawaii booth... Man, that was good!! You squeezed in some classics while in the WS too. Sounded like a great time!

[DawnK]

Loved the close up pictures of the Germany scene. We never just stop and look at that. The food looked awesome (somehow my pizza rolls won't compare to that ). Seeing this just makes me want to do the Food and Wine Festival even more..someday, someday.

Oh and the drinking thing? As the saying goes...It's 5:00 somewhere!! Right?

[goofysdtr]

Mmmm . . . hungry now. Should've known better to read this than just before dinnertime. Sounded really good, though!

[disneydani]

Yum, yum, and yummy....how lucky the top three are all in one post!

I really have to make a plan to be there for F&W and try to sample the food, too....sadly, I am usually on a whirlwind fall weekend with the kiddos and browsing the booths isn't on the top of their list....

Danielle

[truenancy]

Or you can say "it's beer-30" as DH has been known to do. Great photos, and lots of PP meets! Yay!

Just a side note, do your research before hitting Niagara Falls. The Canadian view might be better but you're closer on the American side. And it's not horrendously built up with casinos and tacky souvenir shops. The American side has a fabulous walking park, and you can look at Canada and practically feel the heat from the lights. Just depends on what you're looking for...

[Caldercup]

Originally Posted by PrincessSharon

My guilt at drinking an adult beverage before noon was compounded by the CMs cheerfully saying “good morning!” to me. Why can’t they just say “hello” and let me indulge in my sketchy behavior in peace? After that, I decided not to drink before noon, so I wouldn’t have to hear them be all, “Good morning, alky, here’s your cocktail!”

You'll have to adopt Jill's approach to drinking before noon -- drink enough and you won't care that they think you're an alky!!

Yummy looking food. Yummy scrummy!

[KMB733]

What a wonderful time eating around the world with Heather and Brandon! I really want to try that dessert from Australia

[WeRDisneyFanatics]

I love the tagline on your current siggy pic! I too was a big fan of the slider from Hawaii and the filet from South Africa - yummo!

[Tconst]

Hi:

Love this trip report (& all your others I've read)! Please open a non-sexy Halloween costume store. Just imagine what it's like trying to find an appropriate costume for a 16 yr. old girl who still trick or treats with her friends! A nightmare!

As someone who lives about 30 min. from the American side of the Falls, we always go the the Canadian side. They have it landscaped so pretty over there. Of course they have a whole street of "tacky" touristy things as well. If you go, don't forget your passport or enhanced driver's license or you won't get back in!

[Big Baloo]

I agree with Heather--that is a great tagline! But did you notice that there still doesn't seem to be enough seating?
Sorry about all the "mini-ho's" at the party--here's hoping they stayed at the hotels for your evening with friends.

[cubfancolleen]

Oh, definitely go to Niagara Falls, but the US side is SO much better! It's a national park, so just nice walking paths, great views, etc. the Canadian side is beyond tacky with blocks and blocks of horror museums, believe-it-or-not type places, etc. we did stay in a hotel on the Canadian side and it was fun to walk down to see the light show and fireworks at night.

Never feel badly having a drink when you want one. If it was wrong, they wouldn't sell them! That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.

[HollyH]

Great update. Looks like some yummy choices at the F&WF again. Sounds like a good afternoon hanging out with Heather and Brandon.

I have been saying that I want to spend NYE at the world some day, too. It's my bday and I think it would be fun to spend my bday at Disney at least once.