The CLQ Heads West - Even Eileen!! About This Page:

[lauriep]

, Zack! What an awesome thing to do (and to be ABLE to do)! Terrible that they didn't have GF desserts for Eileen. I've heard about the difficulties with allergies at DLR as compared with WDW, and it's really too bad.

Where is the Dessert Party held these days? I did the party 20 years ago when it was on the balcony that's part of the Dream Suite now. That was awesome! Seeing DLR with Karen is definitely the way to do it!

[chezp]

Hmmm.... maybe I will have to look into the Dessert Party for this trip, never having seen Fantasmic in Disneyland before. I also love the idea of the Nemo subs after dark - something I'd never thought of doing before.

[Principessa_di_Fata]

Phew, that'll teach me to come in late on a CLQ TR! I'm caught up finally, and loving this TR! I hope that one day we have the opportunity to meet the Koenigs. I'd love to see Meri and Maddie side by side... I think all that spunk in one place would create some hilarity.

I'm reading all of the DL parts with special intensity, as we'll be there in just seven weeks and one day! (but who's counting?????) But I'm enjoying all of this, and you people just slay me with your antics and commentaries!

[PrincessSharon]

Now that I have a little more time, I can respond to some of your comments.

Originally Posted by zacksmom_1993

P.S. It was indeed Mary Louise Parker. I didn't even notice her (and I was looking at the group for celebrities since they were plaid-accompanied.) In fact, about two hours later I saw Jill's Facebook post while waiting at the Blue Bayou and I turned to her all excitedly and said, "You saw Mary Louise Parker?!" Jill laughed at me, A LOT, since I was RIGHT THERE. A lot, a lot.

Oh, that made me laugh!

Originally Posted by mcc0313

What a great day...starting off with, who does not report losing $1000, I mean I would have been at the front desk in tears. I cannot imagine not being in tears unless it was my pocket change...but even still I would have headed to the front desk to report it

Very filling day, love that there is a doable line at TSMM, no line sounds amazing. Love the look of Carsland...I really hope we make it there sooner rather than later.

POC is one of those rides I am excited to ride because I heard it is so much better at DL, of course Jasmine reads to much on the internet and insists she will not be riding as the drops at DL are huge (according to whatever post she read)...think we will just have to drag her on.

Maddie is too funny, her comments are just hysterical. Glad you got to spend some time with Jeannie, sounds like a wonderful day, Eileen joins the group, PP meets, good food and fireworks and PJs. The perfect combination.

That money is such a mystery. We tried looking for someone who looked upset (as most people would be when they discover they've lost $1,000), but we didn't see anyone like that. The drops on DL's version of Pirates are bigger, but hardly Splash Mountain stuff.

Originally Posted by dutchdisneyfamily

Lol about your reputation! Not that it's a laughing matter of course, but your comment was funny! What another perfect ending to a fantastic day. About that was of money, I'd be freaking out. I kept wondering if he'd be on that show, What Would You Do?

My reputation is serious business! It's just odd about that money. Then I was thinking about an episode of that old show The Honeymooners where Ralph found all this money and it was counterfeit! THAT would be a reason somebody wouldn't worry about losing it.

Originally Posted by ilovedisney247

Just getting caught up after my very brief staycation at OKW. I cannot believe that someone wasn't freaking out about losing that $$. I was headed towards the elevators at the Beach Club a few years ago and found a roll of $20s on the floor. I noticed that the father in the group ahead of me had his backpack unzipped and the money had probably fallen out. I was thanked profusely over and over again in the elevator. In German.

Great day at the parks and wonderful to get to spend some time with another PassPorter!

I just love seeing all your smiling faces all together!

I had a smiliar situation, only the tourists weren't German, and the money hadn't fallen out yet, it was just hanging out. Also, it was in NYC and not WDW. Actually not very similar at all. Speaking of spending time with PassPorters, I need to send you a PM!

Originally Posted by Dlandmom2

You definitely did get a ton accomplished in a short amount of time! I'm sad I won't get to see the differences between the two Snow Whites and Toontowns now. I wish I had taken more time to explore both on my last trip, but I was focused on things that were only in WDW and not DLR.

The group picture with Mickey is great! So were the ones at Minnie and Friends...I really do need to try a character breakfast at DL someday!

Yes, I imagine if DL is "your" park and you're visiting WDW, you'd skip the stuff at DL (especially the stuff that's better at DL, like Toontown). There's just so much other stuff you need to see. Too bad, but at least you've still got the DL versions to see.

Originally Posted by lexiemom

Oh man! You are gonna make us wait, not fair.

It looks like you guys had a full day already! I can't believe how much you packed in. I wish more buffets at WDW were like The Plaza, getting the bill out of the way and not having to wait for drink refills. It looks like Mary Devall enjoyed her Birthday breakfast!

The photos of Mickey and Minnie swing dancing are just too cute!

Mickey and Minnie were expert swing dancers! Who knew? They were really fantastic!

Originally Posted by Caldercup

I'm catching up after losing 'net access for a couple of days while switching from my old, cranky laptop, to my new zenlike Asus Zenbook!

So,... I'll just say a couple of brief things:

It was FABU to meet Jeannie. Sharon had raved about her so much, I knew we'd like her -- and we did!! (But... oh, that sad and cranky horse. I so wanted to pet him, but he wanted nothing to do with guests.)

And... I don't think I went onto Space Mountain. I was having too much trouble with my knee on rides and I honestly think Screamin', the Little Mermaid, and the Cars ride were the only rides I rode the whole trip.

I can now die in peace: sleeping with Sharon was everything I had always dreamed it would be. Better even.

Yes, that horse looked like he wanted peace and quiet. And I'm glad you think I was worth the wait.

Originally Posted by ilovedisney247

What a magical morning you guys had! I absolutely love the photo of Mary and Maddie with Dale!

NO purchases? Sharon has lost her shopping mojo!

Don't worry, I made some purchases the next day.

Originally Posted by kangelop

I have never been to DL, and always thought that since I have visited WDW I didn't really need to. . . I am starting to rethink that position.

Hurry back. I love surprises!

Don't be silly, you need to see both!

Originally Posted by Caldercup

As can't-look-awaaaaaaay fun as it was to watch Karen go all WitchCon5 on the CM who didn't know what to do other than to say "sorry" and offer excuses for the lac of (promised) non-GF dessert options, it was actually perfectly fine to me that I didn't have something safe for me to eat. (I have to say: I did not find Disneyland to be nearly as accomodating as WDW for my GF needs.)

And you just can't beat DLR's Fantasmic! Not only is it an exceptional show, but it totally amazes me how they can do so very, VERY much with so little. Compared to WDW's F! show (where they have acres and acres of land, a ginormous stage, and a huge venue), DLR's F! is mind-blowingly, seriously good. There is absolutely nothing like having the big, Sailing Ship Columbia come 'round the bend with a fabulous pirate battle going on in the riggings (not to mention a float of Tick Tock the croc following behind!)... and then finishing up with the full Mark Twain paddleboat crammed full of characters.

*sigh* I just love it!

What I didn't love where the crowds. I had the worst time with people not seeing my cane/limp in the dark and trying to zig and zag and cut in front of me. Lemme tell ya, stopping short or having to turn quickly to avoid smooshing some racing kid is totally NOT good for a bum knee.

Anyway, it was another great day at Disneyland and I thoroughly enjoyed myself!

I think we were all more disappointed than you were that you didn't have a lovely GF platter.

Originally Posted by Two4Disney

Growing up 8 miles from Disneyland, I gotta say - I'm mighty proud of you all doing Disneyland just the way it should be done. I worried that my WDW friends would be disappointed with DL, so I'm thrilled to see you having such a good time. But then, you've got a pro in Karen with you!

Interesting comments comparing DL Fantasmic to WDW - I couldn't imagine not having the Columbia, etc sailing by so I skipped Fantasmic at WDW and wondered if I was missing something. The main downer are the crowds - in that small space, you really feel them.

The first time I saw Fantasmic was at WDW, and I loved it, but then when I saw it at DL, I loved it even more! But these days, I won't go out of my way to see it at DHS. I would defintely go out of my way at DL!

Originally Posted by lauriep

, Zack! What an awesome thing to do (and to be ABLE to do)! Terrible that they didn't have GF desserts for Eileen. I've heard about the difficulties with allergies at DLR as compared with WDW, and it's really too bad.

Where is the Dessert Party held these days? I did the party 20 years ago when it was on the balcony that's part of the Dream Suite now. That was awesome! Seeing DLR with Karen is definitely the way to do it!

I did the dessert party on that balcony, too! It was terrific. Now there's a section along the river that is for dessert party guests. The view is almost as good!

Originally Posted by chezp

Hmmm.... maybe I will have to look into the Dessert Party for this trip, never having seen Fantasmic in Disneyland before. I also love the idea of the Nemo subs after dark - something I'd never thought of doing before.

You MUST see Fantasmic! I insist!

The next update will be up later today!

[mpwife153]

Loving the TR.

[honeybee723]

Wow...I'm impressed with Zack and his awesome crane skills. I honestly didn't know that DL had so many different things to offer that WDW doesn't. Like Dumbo and Tinkerbell fly??? Had no idea.

[WishIwasinDisney]

I was totally torn on spending the money for the Fantasmic! package, but I think you've convinced me.

I just love your report and its getting me so excited for my upcoming trip!

[pamcarey]

What awesome surprises from Zack and Karen!!

[Coop]

Way to go Zach! That's awesome that he won the DS! I once won an Ipod Nano at an arcade in Cedar Point. DH was floored! Then everybody wanted me to win them one!

[PrincessSharon]

Originally Posted by honeybee723

Wow...I'm impressed with Zack and his awesome crane skills. I honestly didn't know that DL had so many different things to offer that WDW doesn't. Like Dumbo and Tinkerbell fly??? Had no idea.

Tink's flight is much better. She doesn't just fly in a straight line from one point to another - she flies all around the castle, and more than once!

Originally Posted by WishIwasinDisney

I was totally torn on spending the money for the Fantasmic! package, but I think you've convinced me.

I just love your report and its getting me so excited for my upcoming trip!

I definitely think the F! package is worth not having to camp out for hours (and having a chair is a very nice bonus).

Originally Posted by Coop

Way to go Zach! That's awesome that he won the DS! I once won an Ipod Nano at an arcade in Cedar Point. DH was floored! Then everybody wanted me to win them one!

Cool! I am awful at arcade games. Mary Devall checked out the machine and tried to convince Zack to get her a video camera, too.

Next update is coming right up! WARNING: Lots of photos in these next few posts!

[PrincessSharon]

Day Five – Tuesday, July 31
A photo tour of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street

Everyone was sleeping in this morning, but I’d decided that if I woke up early enough, I’d go to DCA for EE, but just to take photos without tons of people in them. Y’all know me, I was up early enough.

I even had time to grab a quick breakfast in the lounge (which opened at 6:30, I believe). I didn’t want to get to the park right at 7, because I knew there’d be a huge influx of people then, so I timed my arrival for 10-15 minutes after 7:00.

My strategy was a good one – three seemed to be a lot of people at the entrance…



But the line moved quickly and the crowds all headed right in, so the front part of the park was virtually empty. So I got to really take in the details of Buena Vista Street.










The monorail passes through the park on the overpass














I just this statue!







Continued…

[PrincessSharon]

Cars Land was virtually empty!




























A local celebrity






Those people standing to the right of Red the fire engine are in the standby line for Radiator Springs Racers!




The place is just crawling with celebrities










The queue is Luigi’s showroom





Continued…

[PrincessSharon]

Radiator Springs Racers wasn’t operating that morning. From what I’ve heard, it usually takes a while to get going in the morning.




This is the area I talked about earlier, where FP distribution will eventually be










The cars are all empty because they were still testing




I look at this shot and can’t believe I took it inside a theme park!

I haven’t said much about Cars Land, but it truly is amazing. It’s certainly Imagineering at its best. I felt like I’d stepped right into the movie. I am big on the little details and there were certainly lots of little details. It’s worth a trip to Disneyland just to see Cars Land.

Continued…

[PrincessSharon]

I got a few more pictures as I passed through the Pacific Wharf area…








And a Bug’s Land, which wasn’t yet open.










I took this photo especially for my BFF Eileen







I found myself, completely by accident, in front of the Tower of Terror.







With a 13-minute wait, how could I not ride?





I can say that the TOT at DHS is absolutely the best of all the ones around the world. It’s the only one with the 5th dimension scene, where your elevator travels through the building. Also, at WDW, they had the space to really maximize the themeing, and the grounds are fabulous, the approach is incredible, and the building itself is initimidating. Not so at the other parks, where it just sort of sits there in the middle of whatever park it’s in. But there is one advantage at DCA that I discovered this day. There were so few people riding that the CM offered us a chance to stay seated in our elevators for another ride – without having to see the preshow again (which I’ve seen so many times, I know every word by heart).

I only got up to change my seat to the front row. I was hoping I’d have the elevator completely to myself, but there was one other guy with me, way in the back. So because the elevator doesn’t move around inside the building, you board and unload in the same spot, and thus can stay on for another ride. Sweet!

After my second drop, we had to get off, but I was pleased with my very productive morning. Now it was time to join the sleepyheads and start the day. I checked out the gift shop and spotted a really cute TOT t-shirt. It was black, and I’ve promised myself I’d stop buying black t-shirts. But it was so cute, I couldn’t pass it up. I decided to buy it anyway. And because I knew it’d be a while before I could wear it in Orlando, I decided to put it on, so you you’ll see me wearing it in photos from this day.

On the way out, I decided to stop in Elias and Company, the big shop at the front of the park. I found a nice brown hoody with the new Partners statue (which is called Storytellers) on the back. I love it so!

Continued…

[PrincessSharon]

I returned to the DLH to find everyone awake (except Eileen ). After putting on my new t-shirt, I hung out in the lounge while everyone had breakfast. I discovered that Maddie’s first words upon waking that morning were “Did Zack use all the tokens last night?” Of course he didn’t.

Once everyone was ready and fed, we headed to Disneyland. We started in Tomorrowland this time, and our first stop was Buzz Lightyear. I like it better at Disneyland because you can lift up the blaster gun or whatever and aim better. Of course, I don’t know where any of the big targets are. I can’t remember my score but it wasn’t anything to brag about. Something like 68,000 or something. Zack, remember his two humiliating defeats on TSMM, beat me soundly and made sure to let me know it.

After that, we grabbed FPs for Autopia and then split up a little. Karen, Jill and I walked over to Splash Mountain to put our ride photo from the day before onto the Photopass+ (we didn’t have it with us when we rode). We weren’t sure they’d find it, but because we had the number, it was easy, peasy.

When we returned, we found the group in the arcade. Maddie was thrilled because Zack had won her a tiger in the crane game using his leftover tokens. Then we went over to Space Mountain and used the standby line, waiting about 40 minutes I guess. I know it was the longest wait we had the entire trip, and for July at Disneyland, I’d say that’s pretty dang good!

Maddie was brave enough to ride with Mary Devall!


Cute even if it’s blurry

Then our Autopia FPs were ripe, so that’s what we did next. It’s so much better than the Tomorrowland Speedway at WDW. It actually feels like you’re going for a little drive, rather than just riding on a dumb track.

The girls and Zack wanted pizza so we stopped at Redd Rocket’s Pizza Port and got them some. The rest of us were holding out for something at Flo’s V-8 Café, which had a tasty-looking menu.

With that, we’d done practically everything at DL, so we left the park and strolled over to DCA. We stopped at the fountain and I got this shot of the rededication plaque.





We didn’t go to Radiator Springs, we went to Monstropolis instead. The Monsters Inc. ride is a cute dark ride, and I especially love Roz. She always has something snarky to say about someone in each car, it’s so funny. I remember all the talk about how sophisticated the Mr. Potato Head AA was and how many phrases he says, but all I ever hear him do is sing that stupid “one-potato, two-potato song.” It’s disappointing.

Anyway, where were we? We grabbed some FPs to ride TOT later. Then we went over to Flo’s. Karen had mentioned a turkey meal, and since then, I could think of nothing else so obviously, that’s what I got! And I also got a specialty beverage.


Mater’s Tulsa Tea


Citrus Turkey Breast

The Mater’s Tulsa Tea was sweetened green tea with tropical fruit foam (I guess foams are the new Disney trend). I wish I’d had room for one of the awesome-looking pies, but I couldn’t even finish my turkey!

Maddie had gotten the kids meal that comes in a little (well, not exactly little) car, and she went to the empty table behind us to play with it. Karen actually didn’t know this and thought there was a family sitting there because there was so much conversation going on. With different voices and everything! Love it!

After lunch, we saw Red the fire engine.


Now you see them…


Now you don’t

We went to A Bug’s Land. We were in line to ride Tuck & Roll bumper cars when I decided to skip it and take photos instead. No sooner had I left the line than the whole ride went down. So we went over to Flik’s Ladybug Boogie. I had a huge coughing attack (my allergies were kind of bad the whole trip), so I had to leave the queue to get a drink of water, but I made it back in time to ride.

Then, back over to the bumper cars, where I didn’t even bother joining the line that time. Karen stayed out with me and I got photos, but because everyone was kind of in a huge pack, not as good as I’d hoped.





Then it was time to use our TOT FPs. Maddie was sitting this one out, so Thom took her to ride something else, I think. Mary Devall was full of questions because she knew the ride was a bit different and she couldn’t tell when she’d be dropping. She sat next to me and I promised her I’d let her know when the drop was coming. She kept asking, “Now?” And I’d say, “After the little movie.” And she’d say (2 seconds later) “Now?” It got to the point where she was like, “Now? Now? Now?” like the seagulls in Finding Nemo. Finally, it was time, so I said, “Okay, get ready!” And we dropped. I’m not sure Mary Devall liked it as much.

After that, we all headed out. There was some shopping to be done. I did a little window shopping but made no more purchases.



I checked the DLH gift shop to see if they had a magnet – they did not. And I forgot about it at my stay at the Paradise Pier, so I never even checked. Although, now that I think about it, I’m sure the resort gift shop was closed the entire time I was there.


The lobby of our tower, the Adventure Tower

Up Next: A fabulous dinner, a fabulous show