The Twist My Arm Trip-Spring Break 2005-COMPLETE 11/9
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Tink and co. · 05-07-2005, 01:17 AM

Day 2---Continued

At some point during this very long day, we rode Autopia and hopped on Indy and Thunder Mountain again. I also remember the kids riding the teacups. Somehow those got left out!

Anywho---I had checked in for our PS at Blue Bayou and a few minutes later, the tagalongs came off of Pirates, and then a few minutes later, the rest of our party. We were told that we’d be seated at 2 tables next to each other which such a large party, but when we were seated, we were all at one really long table. Everyone took their seats, and the kids all sat on the side facing the water. Who says kids aren’t smarter than adults?! None of us figured it out until after dinner!

No sooner had we sat down, and the tagalongs were complaining about the price of things, but no one acknowledged their complaints, so they stopped! I ordered the prime rib which was incredible, and about the size of a small roast. The potatoes (kind of like augratin) were so yummy. My favorite was the vegetarian jambalaya. Mmmm...I’m getting hungry just thinking about it. Janet had salmon, and Penny tried the Cajun spiced tri tip. We all split an order of calamari (except me, I’m a seafood weenie). The kids really liked it. The girls all had the kid’s meal pasta, and Jack had mini corn dogs (I swear you can’t take the kid anywhere!). It was a most delicious and relaxing meal. I’d never eaten dinner there before (I’d only had the Monte Cristo for lunch.), and it was well worth it.

We heard the fireworks go off while we were eating, and the first showing of Fantasmic! When we emerged from the restaurant, the crowd was just starting to move. It was ugly. We somehow made it over to Thunder Mountain again and took a spin. After that I said I’d stake out a spot for Fantasmic! So, Janet and I started talking with cast members to get some opinions on where to sit. I’d never been to the second showing before, and had no idea I’d have a choice! Woo Hoo! We found a superb spot on the second teir up from the river. There were some people standing up in front of us, but it was marked as a sitting only area, and we were assured by the cast members standing there that everyone in the area would be sitting when the show started.

One man directly in front of us refused to sit down when asked and the cast member went to get security. Security never came, but a supervisor did. The guy got really belligerent with the supervisor who was a tiny little woman, so nothing happened. The cast member told all of us to stand up so that we could see as well. I really thought they should have moved the guy. His behavior was uncalled for, and I expected Disney staff to stand by their rules. And there was plenty of standing area, there were thousands fewer in the crowd for the second show. Anyway, the kids couldn’t see over the guy and just kept getting closer and closer to him. He was pretty well surrounded. That would scare most people off! Jack had been lovingly holding his new whoopee cushion all evening, and was letting some rip with it. The guy kept turning around and looking at Jack. I don’t think he ever realized it was a whoopee cushion and not the real thing! Too bad they didn’t smell…
Ah, well Fantasmic! was wonderful as usual, and brought tears to my eyes. It’s just so incredible. A large part of the story and the pachyderm portion (which I really like), and the pirate ship were missing when we saw it at MGM. The Disneyland production is just so much better. Although, I wouldn’t mind it if they added Pocahontas at Disneyland. It’s one of my favorites. I like how they actually use the Mark Twain for the show at Disneyland as well. The little boat they used at MGM just wasn’t right, and there weren’t very many characters on it. I do like the seating there though!

The show left us all energized and rejuvenated (not really, but the line was so short!), so we were off to Indy for one last ride. I’m sure it’s faster at night! We then headed back to the hotel where we made our plans to meet Janet, Penny, and the girls at 9:00 AM, and the tagalongs would meet with us at 9:15 at the gate. Tomorrow was time for California Adventure, and my first spin on California Screamin’. Would I actually ride it?

The kids tumbled into bed, and after I laid everything out for the next day (I really missed dad at this time of day!) I did too. It was about 1:00 AM. How many hours of Disneyland fun?! I’d already made a mental note that we’d split from the group on our next Disneyland day. We wanted to see characters and spend some time in Fantasyland and Toontown.

Next up—Chili and a tummy ache

Fantasmic! kid · 05-07-2005, 02:02 AM

YAY! You saw Fantasmic! I can get off the computer and go to sleep now!

I can't believe that one guy wouldn't sit down.... and the fact the CM's actually gave up (considering that was nothing compared to what they had to deal with on the 5th-- that was a nightmare!)

snoozy · 05-07-2005, 03:36 PM

Why is it there is always one guy who wants to ruin things for others? I'm so happy you had a fun time watching Fantasmic. I have really got to see this show.

loobyoxlip · 05-10-2005, 09:54 AM

Heh! I missed you updated this a few days ago. Yay!!

We have yet to eat at the Blue Bayou. Hopefully some day

More, please

PrincessSharon · 05-10-2005, 10:52 AM

Sounds like a fun trip. Every time you mention the tagalongs, I think of Girl Scout cookies. Your trip report is making me hungry!

Tink and co. · 05-19-2005, 10:31 PM

Day 3—California Adventure

Our day began with a wake up call at 7, and a hop in the shower. By 8:30 we were all up, showered, dressed, and ready to go check out the continental breakfast at the hotel. We trekked over and discovered a small assortment of Danish (which my kids love) coffee and pink lemonade. Milk and cereal could be purchased for $1 each. We made our selections and discovered that the Danish was mildew tasting---YUCK! So we opted for the croissants which were okay, the kids had a cup of Sanka (they really love coffee, thanks to my grandma) and I bought a container of milk. We met up with everyone downstairs about 9:15 to head out for the day. When we got to the park, there was a short line, so we queued up and watched for the tagalongs to arrive. They opened the gates and Soarin’ at 9:30, but our friends were no where to be seen (They were supposed to meet us at 9:15.). So we cruised the gift shops at the front of the parks, called their cell phone, left a message and waited…

Penny voiced the irritation that we were all feeling, and we decided to head over and at least get Fastpasses for the ride. I’m glad we did, as there was already a 60 minute wait! I must note that we’ve never waited in line for something at DCA for more than 15 minutes, but it looked like today would be different! It’s such a different experience going off season. We much prefer it! As we were returning to the gate for one last check, the tagalongs rounded the corner, fuming about traffic, parking attendant, and a toothache (the comment was, even Vicadin won’t work anymore! From the driver! OMG!). We told them we already had Fastpasses, so they got theirs, and we made our way down the path to Grizzly River Run. It had a 30 minute wait, and we hopped in line after stowing stuff in the free lockers. What an incredible ride! It was Jack’s first time and he liked it too! Janet and I were weenies once again with the ponchos; however, we still got a little wet around the ankles! We discussed getting Fastpasses for a return trip, but we had too many other possibilities. We made our way to the Boardwalk area next and got right on to the Golden Zephyrs. We were all seated and buckled in when they announced that it was too windy to operate the ride, and it would be closed. After our turn, right? Wrong! We had to get off without riding. So we went to the Jellyfish next where there was a 60 minute wait. So, we kept moving and tried Mulholland Madness next. It was a 40 minute wait, so we got in line, and it wasn’t long before Katie wasn’t feeling well and her tummy really hurt. She didn’t want to ride, and this isn’t one of my favorites, so I took her to get a Sprite and we looked for crackers with no luck. She was miserable by the time her mom got off the ride! Penny volunteered to take her back to the room and let her rest. The remainder of us traveled on, but I for one, was sad Katie was missing out. The girls rode Orange Stinger next, while Jack and I played on S.S. Rustworthy, and Mr. Tagalong ran for California Screamin’ Fastpasses. Then on to the Maliboomer, which I wanted to try, but Zoie and Leah opted out. So, I placed them at the exit with Jack, and braved this for the first time myself. It was surprisingly tame. I didn’t much care for the “puke shield” though. It made it really hot inside, and I was in need of a mint apparently…&#61514;

The line was very long for the Ferris wheel, so we skipped, and at this point doubled back to Soarin’ to use our Fastpass. It was a wonderful ride as usual, and we made a pact to bring Katie and Penny on it when they returned, or even tomorrow, if necessary. We decided on the Taste Pilot’s Grill for lunch, and here we encountered the longest line of our entire trip. Luckily, the food was wonderful. Zoie had ribs, Hallie and Jack had a hot dog kid’s meal, and I had chili cheese fries and diet coke. Heaven, I’m in heaven…oh, sorry, the only thing I like better than cheese on French fries is ice cream. And the shakes here looked heavenly, but I would have ice cream later in the afternoon. I must pace myself! While enjoying this wonderful culinary delight, two things happened. First Penny called, and she and Katie were on their way into the park. Yeah!!! And Mrs. Tagalong began weaving her chili tale. She described in detail her bout with food poisoning from eating chili at a local buffet, and then went on to discuss the Wendy’s finger in the chili incident. Hello, I may barf on you if you continue! Any who…

Katie and Penny rode Soarin’ while we finished our lunch, and then we made our way to California Screamin’. We didn’t have enough Fastpasses for everyone, so Penny graciously offered to stay with Jack, since he didn’t want to ride anyway. I’d never been on this ride, and I got pretty nervous in line. Between my nerves and the chili tale, my stomach wasn’t feeling too good by the time we boarded the coaster. It was awesome!! Other than the stomach ache, I enjoyed it immensely. I called Rob at home when I got off to brag. He thought I’d chicken out at the last minute!

We had decided to see the Aladdin show before the day was up, so we began the trek to the other side of the park. We stopped off for It’s Tough to be a Bug (which wound up being Janet’s favorite) and Muppetvision 3-D on the way. Neither one had a wait. Of course, the tagalongs whined, yawned, etc. They just didn’t want to be flexible. They only wanted to do things they wanted to do. It was very annoying. They really complained about the Aladdin show as well, but the rest of loved it and agreed it is worth the price of admission all by itself. We had Fastpasses for Tower of Terror to use after the show, so that was next (finally! &#61514

. Jack and Penny did not want to go on this ride, so they wandered to the Disney Animation attraction while the rest of us rode. Oh, I just love this ride! It was so much fun. I think the theming was a tad bit better at MGM, but the ride seemed about the same to me. We didn’t get to wind our way through the lobby using a Fastpass, so that may be why I feel that way about it.

When we were finished, I pointed out that I had 2 Fastpasses that we hadn’t used, and I was going to give them to someone in line. You know, Random Act of Kindness. Mr. Tagalong would have nothing to do with it! He snatched the tickets, and handed them to his daughters, and said “go ride again.” I was livid! But at Disney, I can be happy just sitting on a bench, so I just turned around and walked away. We made our way to A Bug’s Land, and the kids had a ball going on all the little rides in the dark. It was really neat all lit up. Even the lights were creative! We played there until it was time to find a seat for the Electrical Light Parade. We found seats easily and claimed them. Then we took turns going to the Food Court type area in the Pacific Wharf to grab dinner. Jack had a taco kid’s meal from the Mexican place and the girls had clam chowder in a bread bowl. I had broccoli cheese soup in a bread bowl, and a souvenir mug (TOT) with hot chocolate. Katie and Hallie drank it all up for me. I just wanted the cup. We munched while watching the parade which was much better than I remember. We all really enjoyed it, and a good time was had by all. After the end of the parade went by, we made our way back to California Screamin’ so the kids could ride it in the dark. I stayed with Jack this time and watched him ride King Triton’s Carousel, at least 3 times. The fireworks went off over the castle right then and it was spectacular. I couldn’t wait to see them the next night!

Jack and I still had our Fastpasses for California Screamin’ so I gave them to Hallie and Katie to ride again. I waited for them while the rest of the gang ran off for one last ride on the Maliboomer. Zoie and Leah rode this time, and enjoyed it. The girls went next to the Ferris wheel where they rode in a sliding car. We could hear them screaming every time it moved! I went on the Ferris wheel once, and I believe it’s the scariest ride I’ve ever been on. It really freaked me out! I don’t think I could ride it at night! We were the last ones in the Boardwalk area, and when the girls got off, we made our way to the front of the park and back to the hotel.

We crashed almost instantly, what an exhausting, but exciting day.

Next up…yep, we ditch ‘em, and add another to the party!

loobyoxlip · 05-19-2005, 10:39 PM

That stupid Golden Zephyr is closed for like 2mph winds.

We've gotten to ride it a whopping 2 times in 5 trips that equaled over 25 days!!

Taste Pilots Grill does have awesome food

Did they have any pop culture references in Aladdin this year? Last year the Genie talked about William Hung and sang "She bangs, she bangs" ... they year before that he talked about 'The Bachelor' Those lines totally crack me up!!

I still laugh when I hear people say that ferris wheel scares them (my mom is one of those people)

I love that ride

Great installment. Thanks

PrincessSharon · 05-20-2005, 09:48 AM

Great installment! Kudos to you for braving Maliboomer by yourself! And I'm really happy to hear you finally managed to ditch the tagalongs!

Diz · 05-20-2005, 05:02 PM

Boy, it sure is different reading a trip report from DL - I'm not familiar with anything you're doing! But it all sounds like so much fun! I can't wait to visit so I'll have it all pictured in my mind!

Interesting family - those tagalongs you've got! Glad the father came in handy with the fastpasses, but wow! You sure have been patient with them!

How did you like your hotel - sorry about the mildew taste of the danish! How was the pool? Swimming is very important to me!

Despite the tagalong problems, you've really had a fun spring break! Everyone sounds so happy!

Can't wait to read more.

lauren-roxy · 05-20-2005, 09:24 PM

I just got all caught up with your trip report and it really is great!!!! Count me in as someone who does not like ferris wheels!! Can't wait to read more!!!!!!

MAria R · 05-21-2005, 10:27 AM

[ QUOTE ]
Boy, it sure is different reading a trip report from DL - I'm not familiar with anything you're doing! But it all sounds like so much fun! I can't wait to visit so I'll have it all pictured in my mind!

[/ QUOTE ]

That is what I was thinking! Great update!!

snoozy · 05-21-2005, 11:43 AM

I really

DCA, it gets alot of bad press but, we always have a blast there.

We have never been on the Zephyr either, it is always closed. Also the ferris wheel, the lines are always so long and move so slow. Oh well one of these days.

I would not have the patience you had with your tagalongs. This is why I only take people outside the family that have the same look on Disneyland as we do.

All in all it sounds like you had a good time.

**Colexis Mom** · 05-21-2005, 06:23 PM

More great updates

Tink and co. · 11-09-2005, 12:06 AM

Day 4—Back to Disneyland

We had our wake up at 6:00 this morning, and we all showered and were out the door shortly after 7. We stopped at the convenience store in the parking lot of our hotel and bought powdered sugar donuts and chocolate milk for breakfast…mmm, the breakfast of champions! Then we made our way across the street, where we met my friend Janice in the plaza. She lives in SoCal, and whenever we’re at Disneyland, I give her a call, and she meets us for a day.
She was waiting for us, and a few minutes later, Janet, Penny, and the girls showed up and we lined up at the entrance. The tagalongs showed up a few minutes later, and when the gates opened, we made our way to Indy for a ride. After that we got fastpasses for Splash (It must have been really crowded because our return time was for 2:30!). At this point, the tagalongs wanted to repeat all of the thrill-type rides, we’d done on Tuesday. We decided to head to Fantasyland instead where we rode all of the rides except for Dumbo and Alice.
Then we made our way on Big Thunder trail, stopped at Thunder Mountain and then on to Tom Sawyer’s Island. We had a great time there! Tom and Huck were out and messing around with the kids. We got some great pictures. The kids played for about an hour. It was wonderful.
We were getting hungry, so we stopped at the Hungry Bear for lunch. We had pretty average burgers here, nothing special, and Jack had a hot dog, of course. We had a little time before our fastpass return time, so we rode Pirates and Winnie the Pooh. We met up with the tagalongs and got in the fastpass line. Mrs. Tagalong was obviously quite angry about splitting up. She wouldn’t speak to us and then insisted her kids ride with her when they wanted to ride with their friends. The kids were all poking each other, and she yelled at them all. I was glad when we were separated at the loading area. We had a great ride as usual—and then we had 2 fastpasses left over, as Jack and Janet didn’t ride. We had them passed off to a honeymooning couple before they could be snatched away from us! At this point, we parted from the tagalongs for good—Mrs. was openly hostile, and we couldn’t deal with it anymore. And we hadn’t been to Toontown yet!

We trekked over to Toontown and rode got a fastpass for Roger Rabbit. The kids met many characters here, and we got lots of photos and autographs. I remember Goofy, Pluto, and Chip and Dale. I know there were others, but I can’t remember who! We also visited the store where we all parted with a good chunk of money. We didn’t do Gadget’s Go Coaster; the line was just too long.

At this point, we split up and the big kids went on the Matterhorn again, and Jack and I hit the teacups. Then we decided a priority was the fireworks for the evening, so we stopped for some dinner at Pinocchio’s Village Haus and then did some shopping on Main Street. About an hour before the show was to start, Jack, Janice, and I staked out a spot right in front of the castle, everyone else returned about 20 minutes before the show when they announced that the fireworks were cancelled for the evening due to high winds.

We were all pretty pooped at this point, so we walked to the entrance, bid Janice good bye and went back to the room where we crashed. Well, I packed up for the next day, and then I hit the sack too!

Up next…Knott’s Berry Farm and a trip home…
[img]/ubb/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

**Colexis Mom** · 11-09-2005, 05:50 AM

Another great day [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/zwavin.gif[/img] Of course except for the tagalong's mood [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

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