{"id":57,"date":"2016-06-24T02:48:16","date_gmt":"2016-06-24T02:48:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dpfamilytravel.com\/dp\/?page_id=57"},"modified":"2017-05-10T18:32:16","modified_gmt":"2017-05-10T18:32:16","slug":"57-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dpfamilytravel.com\/dp\/travel-blogs\/57-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Spray it with Lysol 2"},"content":{"rendered":"

Pre-Trip Report: Nana and Bop Take on 2 Teens and The World - without Avis!<\/h3>\n
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Pre-Trip Report: Nana and Bop Take on 2 Teens and The World - without Avis!<\/h3>\n

Pre-Trip Report<\/p>\n

May 29\u00a0 - June 2\u00a0 2016<\/p>\n

Nana and Bop Take on 2 teens and The World<\/p>\n

I don\u2019t normally do a pre-trip report, but I have really enjoyed reading them and received so many good ideas, I thought I would give it a go for this trip.\u00a0 In all honesty, as I begin this I have five (5) more sleeps until travel day and I am so excited, so this writing is my calming therapy until \u201cgo-time\u201d.<\/p>\n

Let me introduce our scenario, the players and our plans as we dive into the fun:<\/p>\n

Background:<\/strong>\u00a0 My DH and I are in our 50\u2019s -60\u2019s (yes, he\u2019s older than me) and have five (5) grandchildren.\u00a0 We try to take them to Disney or on a cruise each year, but only two at a time, unless mommy and daddy tag along, so we rotate between the five.\u00a0 This year, the lot landed with our two oldest, so with two teens in-tow this trip will be quite different than when we were chasing down princesses or Jake and standing in line for Dumbo\u2026 or will it?<\/p>\n

Cast Members:<\/p>\n

Nana (Penni)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 58<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am a Disney addict and have been since age 5 before I ever stepped foot in a park.\u00a0 My children and grandchildren have no doubt that I whistle while I work and dream of Disney.\u00a0 I love the planning almost as much as trip itself.<\/p>\n

Bop (Dennis)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 64\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>He loves me so he endures the World with a smile and truth be known actually enjoys it with the grandchildren (and even just me) once he is there.\u00a0 Otherwise, pixie dust rarely enters his mind.<\/p>\n

Kelsi \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 16\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Loves all things Disney and has since I introduced her to the World at age 4.\u00a0 She rode TMRR on that trip and as we came off the last hill exclaimed, \u201cBop, this is fun\u201d -\u00a0 she was hooked.\u00a0 This is either trip 7 or 8 for her<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 14\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Loves being at home and creating in her own artsy world, but loves to experience family time and Disney also.\u00a0 It has been a while since she has made a trip to The World, and is super excited to experience some new rides and thrills.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a few of our favorites:<\/p>\n

Favorite Park:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hollywood Studios<\/p>\n

Nana\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Epcot<\/p>\n

Kelsi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Magic Kingdom<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0 Magic Kingdom<\/p>\n

Favorite Disney Character:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rapunzel (well maybe just when she smacks Flynn with the skillet)<\/p>\n

Nana\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Pocahontas<\/p>\n

Kelsi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It used to be Ariel year after year \u2013 I will have to see if this has changed<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0 Sophia the 1st<\/sup> (and yes, we are having breakfast with her on our first Park morning).<\/p>\n

Favorite Restaurant:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Whispering Caf\u00e9 , Cape May Seafood Buffett, or Liberty Tavern (He\u2019s my foodie)<\/p>\n

Nana\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Whispering Caf\u00e9 or Cape May Seafood Buffett<\/p>\n

Kelsi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Nine Dragons<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0 Cinderella\u2019s Castle<\/p>\n

Favorite Ride:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Splash Mountain, People Mover, Test Track<\/p>\n

Nana\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Space Mountain<\/p>\n

Kelsi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tower of Terror, Space Mountain<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0 Space Mountain<\/p>\n

Itinerary<\/p>\n

I failed to mention earlier that we only have 4 nights, 2 park days\u00a0 and 1 off day (to enjoy the Resort):<\/p>\n

Arrival: Sunday evening, (dinner time) May 29, 2016<\/p>\n

Resort: Port Orleans, French Quarter<\/p>\n

Monday\u00a0 A.M.\u00a0\u00a0 Hollywood Studios: (3 Fast Passes: Tower of Terror, Rocking Roller Coaster, Star Tours)<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Breakfast with Sophia the First (Lauryn\u2019s pick) at Hollywood and Vine<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A few more rides of choice (Great Movie Ride, etc)<\/p>\n

Monday P.M.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 EPCOT<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Lunch \u2013 somewhere in the World Showcase \u2013 Counter Serv or Flower & Garden Food \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 stands.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Dinner \u2013 Nine Dragons<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stand in line (cause I know a FP will not be available by mid-day Monday) for Soarin\u2019 and<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Track (guess I could hope for some pixie dust).<\/p>\n

Departure Day is finally here and I am typing this in the truck somewhere on I-75, still in Ga. It has been an eventful month already and today just capped it off.\u00a0 Bop had 2 kidney stones (did you know the price for having those externally blasted is $38,000)??\u00a0 Thank goodness for Insurance, although they tell me I will still owe after Ins pays, of course \u2013 what else?\u00a0 And several other family car issues erupted. Then today: well, the story is too long to recount -\u00a0 but just read this.\u00a0 It is a complain letter I just finished emailing to Avis Customer Service\u2026\u00a0 For those of you who read my blog for our family cruise back in September \u2013 yes, de ja va all over again.<\/p>\n

This is not a question but a complaint. I am a travel agent and have personally used and recommended Avis for years.\u00a0 After today, I cannot say that I will ever do that again.\u00a0 I reserved a car at the Thornton Rd Lithia Springs Ga Avis facility - I have rented here several times before.\u00a0 My reservation was for 12:00 noon on Sunday.\u00a0 The sign on the door says they open at 11:00 a.m. and the website said 11:30. So Noon should have been fine.\u00a0 We arrived at 11:35 to find people standing outside waiting with the doors locked and said they were told that they (workers) had gone to lunch and would not be back until 12:15.\u00a0 Strike one - not good, but ok - since I was early anyway, We went back home, got all our luggage and had someone bring us back to pick up the rental SUV for our vacation (that we had been planning for a long time)!\u00a0 We arrived back at 12:25 to pick up our car and first of all, were greeted with and unfriendly \"do you have reservation\" (no hello, no welcome to Avis, no may we help you). Then they proceeded to tell us they did not have a vehicle available for us.\u00a0 A renter (now sitting at the facility) had a vehicle rented for yesterday(Sat) but didn't show up until today. So they had to give her the car, and left us stranded.\u00a0\u00a0 That is horrible customer service. If they rented her car out yesterday, then she should have had to wait.\u00a0\u00a0 We came on time, expecting a vehicle and were packed with grandchildren ready to leave on vacation.<\/em><\/p>\n

What is the purpose in reserving a car?\u00a0 After we left and got on the road (in our vehicle that we had not planned to drive) - they called us to let us know they had a vehicle they could get for us about 8 miles away (too late - we are already gone - but more importantly, if that vehicle was available, why was it not sitting there waiting for us)?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not happy with Avis -\u00a0 your reputation just took a very big hit with me.<\/em><\/p>\n

You definitely do not try harder.<\/em><\/p>\n

So we are in my husband\u2019s wonderful BIG red Ram truck. We really love it \u2013 and it\u2019s roomy \u2013 just not good on gas.<\/p>\n

Ok \u2013 Here we gooooooooooooooo!<\/p>\n

Oh, and if you are wondering where the title of this Blog came from \u2013 that would be my wonderful grandchildren making fun of my obsession with Lysol \u2013 you\u2019ll hear more about that later J<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Could we go any slower<\/h3>\n
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Could we go any slower<\/h3>\n

Sunday May 29, 2016<\/p>\n

Lola (our GPS) timed our arrival at 8:05 (or in that vicinity)since we left Austell. We were passing through Ocala, Florida around 6:30, light traffic, making great time, and happen to look up at the GPS and she said , \u201cArrival Time \u2013 10:05\u201d ?\u00a0 What ?\u00a0\u00a0 We were about to get on the Turnpike when this happened, and the GPS showed all lanes closed on the Florida Turnpike South.\u00a0 I called 511 (State Patrol Road Conditions) and they agreed with the information from Lola and gave us a detour route.\u00a0 That delayed us by an hour and we finally arrived an hour late, at 9:00. \u00a0 Starving, we knew the sister resort at Port Orleans, Riverside, had a sit-down restaurant, so we made quick reservations and at a quick dinner! \u00a0Good food - Dennis and Kelsi had Crawfish Etouffe \u00a0and Lauryn and I split Steak and Crawfish Macaroni.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Disney\u2019s new \u201cOn-line Check-In\u201d with Magic Bands is wonderful.\u00a0 They texted me our room # and we were able to go straight to our room, by passing the front desk all together.\u00a0 With the luggage in the room, Kelsi and I made a quick trip to the front desk to pick up a package and her birthday button and came back to the room where Dennis was sound asleep\u00a0 - lights on, glasses on, \u00a0he just hit the bed and crashed.\u00a0\u00a0 We were all tired and planned to do a quick un-pack and go to bed. Tomorrow would come soon and we had a busy day, but first things first.\u00a0 Where\u2019s my Lysol ?<\/p>\n

Lauryn was sitting on the bed, cracking up, with Kelsi, as I opened all the drawers and sprayed Lysol in each, then the bedspread (no, I didn\u2019t spray Dennis), bathrooms, and sink area. \u00a0The shoes we had worn all day had walked through dirty service stations and rest areas, so I sprayed the bottoms of each before storing them under the bench in our room at The French Quarter Resort.\u00a0 And yes, teasing ensued \u2013 but hey, I\u2019ve been to Disney one time when everyone got sick and I don\u2019t care to repeat that \u2013 so caution is better and I\u2019ll take the ribbing about being the Lysol germ-a-phobe.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Nothing else for this day \u2013 it\u2019s bedtime \u2013 we have a breakfast date with Sophia the First in the morning \u2013 but first\u2026. Oh my how am I going to sleep tonight? And Why did I promise Kelsi I would ride \u201cTHAT\u201d ride tomorrow\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Holy Terror, Here We Come!<\/h3>\n
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Holy Terror, Here We Come!<\/h3>\n

Monday May 30, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n

I was the first one awake early Monday morning.\u00a0 As I opened my daily devotional and thanked the Lord for providing for us, and to really hear from HIM today, the scripture was like an angel in my ear, as I read Psalm 56: 3-4<\/p>\n

When I am afraid,\u00a0I put my trust in you.
4\u00a0<\/sup><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In God, whose word I praise\u2014
in God I trust and am not afraid.
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>What can mere mortals do to me?<\/em><\/p>\n

Ok \u2013 maybe you think it is silly to pray for how I was feeling about getting on a ride, but I take every little concern to God, including this \u2013 If I am getting on this ride, I want to know it\u2019s ok with my Father in Heaven and my best friend.\u00a0 Upon Kelsi\u2019s insistence and her love for \u201c Tower of Terror\u201d at Hollywood Studio\u2019s, I promised her I would ride it.\u00a0 And yes, I was having 2nd<\/sup> thoughts.\u00a0 But God\u2019s Word really did comfort me and in some strange way, give me comfort and peace \u2013 like a \u201cseal of approval\u201d.<\/p>\n

I researched this ride for the last two months \u2013 I knew how the pulley\u2019s work, I knew where the handles are at your side to hold on to, and I knew that when we entered the room where the temperature changed to warm, the first drop sequence was about to begin. So this was the setup for this morning\u2019s agenda. We had a 9:00 fast pass for Tower of Terror at Disney Hollywood Studio\u2019s.<\/p>\n

We were at the bus stop around 8:15 a.m. at our resort, and I had a few Ritz crackers and some bottled water while we waited on the bus. Breakfast would be at 10:00, after Tower of Terror and wanted just a little something on my stomach before riding\u2026 but not much!<\/p>\n

We arrived at Rope Drop and had to wait about 20 minutes.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Arriving at Tower of Terror, we were too early for our Fast Passes, and I asked about the stand by time because it said 20 minutes but everyone was just going straight in \u2013 the cast member said it was more like five (5 minutes) so we decided to go ahead and ride it. Good \u2013 I was weary of the anticipation \u2013 let\u2019s get on with this!!\u00a0 The line was short and before long we were entering our elevator.<\/p>\n

Cute story line and very well done, entering the Twilight Zone, with Ghostly characters and movement into dark corridors of the old hotel. You could feel slight movements of ascending slowly in an elevator. Finally we passed through an area and into a box like compartment (elevator shaft) where the temperature changed (warmer) and we were pulled up quickly then pulled down \u2013 it is not a drop, because you can feel the pressure of being pulled downward. Then pushed up, pulled down \u2013 not bad, I\u2019m still breathing; this is fun!\u00a0 Then I realized we had completed the 4th<\/sup> sequence, and we were pulled up and plunged down again \u2013what, ok, breathing a little heavy now\u00a0 this is # 5 and I \u201cthink\u201d the doors opened (window at the top of the tower) this time \u2013 surely, it\u2019s over, nope after that drop, pulled up one more time \u2013 then pushed down. Final time. Whew, I made it.\u00a0 Fun? Yes!\u00a0 But that was enough for a little while for me.\u00a0 I will ride it again, definitely,\u00a0 It is probably in my top 7 rides on my list. Thank you, Kelsi for insisting I conquer my fears \u2013 Holy Terror, I did it!<\/p>\n

My head is down, so you can't really see me in this picture \u00a0(middle row 3rd from the end on the left - Dennis is beside me and that is Kelsi to my left and Lauryn beside her)<\/p>\n

(see that death grip? - yeah, I have a battle scar from that - bruise on my right upper arm)<\/p>\n

Rockin\u2019 Roller Coaster was close-by so we went to check the stand-by line, 40 minutes, hmm \u2013 we didn\u2019t really have time before breakfast.\u00a0 It was right at our original Fast Pass time for Tower of Terror, so Dennis, Kelsi and Lauryn took the elevator to the 13th<\/sup> floor for a second time.\u00a0 I\u2019ll wait until next trip to revisit.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Next up \u2013 time for breakfast reservations at Hollywood and Vine with Jake, Sophia, Doc McStuffins, and Handy Mandy. This buffet is really good and at some point during the meal, Kelsi declared, \u201c this is the best breakfast I have ever had\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0 Kelsi called Christian when Jake passed by our table and face timed him so he could see.\u00a0 Pictures and autographs with characters \u2013 never too old J\u00a0 it\u2019s a Disney tradition \u2013 gotta do it.<\/p>\n

It took a little while for all of the characters to pass by and pose for the obligatory picture, so by the time we had paid our bill, and walked out \u2013 our food had time to settle before the next ride.\u00a0 We said good bye to one of the cast members, Mikey, from Puerto Rico that we had been talking to before breakfast \u2013 nice guy.\u00a0 He was telling us about having to learn the language when he first moved here and how kids in his class at school tricked him on the meaning of some words\u2026\u00a0 got him a trouble a couple of times \u2013 uh oh!\u00a0\u00a0 You can strike up some interesting conversations with Disney cast members.<\/p>\n

Somewhere around 11:30 \u2013 fast pass time for Rockin\u2019 Roller Coaster. As we took off in the big limousine to the pulsing Aero Smith concert, the G-force (0 to 60 in about 5 seconds) is strong \u2013 the last 2 seconds I began to think \u201cok \u2013 enough of this\u2026\u201d as our first inversion happened and then I was fine, as the force from the blast off lifted away. This ride is totally in the dark, and it was my first time, so I had no idea what was coming.\u00a0 Drops, Spirals, and shooting upwards \u2013 very fun! Glad I rode it \u2013 once, I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll be riding that one again.\u00a0 I really liked the roller coaster ride, just not the blast off.<\/p>\n

Shaky legs for a couple of seconds as I exited the ride \u2013 it\u2019s intense, and the jerkiness bothered Dennis\u2019 neck some, but we are impressing our grandkids \u2013 ha! JTruth is, we like these rides, our bodies just not so much.<\/p>\n

A few minutes left before time for our 3rd<\/sup> fast pass, so we popped into the Great Movie Ride.\u00a0 Settle back and just relax and catch my breath for a few minutes for this slow, classic ride through the movies ride.\u00a0 Always love seeing the Wicked Witch of the West legs and ruby slippers under Dorothy\u2019s house, and of course, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Harrison Ford.<\/p>\n

Time now for Star Tours \u2013 my favorite ride at Hollywood Studio\u2019s. It is a simulator ride, but Disney does an excellent job making it feel and look so real.\u00a0 After exiting, Dennis snapped a few photos of Dark Vader on stage to send to Christian. Here ya go, buddy, just for you!<\/p>\n

We made our way to the exit of The Studio\u2019s and found the bus to Epcot for the rest of the day, but not before getting a couple of Frozen Lemonade\u2019s.\u00a0 It is HOT,\u00a0 gotta stay hydrated.\u00a0\u00a0 See you over by the big White Spaceship Earth!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Asleep at the Wheel - or in the Queue (Monday P.M. - Epcot)<\/h3>\n
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Asleep at the Wheel - or in the Queue (Monday P.M. - Epcot)<\/h3>\n

Monday May 30, 2016<\/p>\n

Asleep at the Wheel \u2013 or in the Queue<\/strong><\/p>\n

I\u2019m getting better at maneuvering on and off the Disney Bus Transportation with my scooter.\u00a0 I rented for the entire length of stay from Buena Vista Scooters. Good company, and I would highly recommend them \u2013 they are very reasonable (less than half price of renting at the parks) and the price includes Damage Waiver and Insurance.\u00a0 Within 10-15 minutes, we arrived at Epcot.\u00a0 My finger scan didn\u2019t work at the entrance, but a cast member with an I-Pad had me fixed in no-time and we were off to our next adventure: Lunch. We went to Sunshine Seasons Counter Serve in \u201cThe Land\u201d.\u00a0 Lauryn and I ate a kids meal, just something to hold us over until Dinner. Dennis had a chicken sandwich, that was 90% bread, and Kelsi ate weird fish taco\u2019s (her description). \u00a0Well, not great \u2013 but we didn\u2019t spend a fortune and we were satisfied- sort of, so now to the important stuff: Soarin\u2019 is OPEN!<\/p>\n

Just a quick news byte on Soarin\u2019 to those who may not be Disney Nerds like me: This ride has been down for the installation of a new film and redesign, with a re-open date announced for June 17. Two weeks before we left, I received news from my Disney Travel Agent Site that the original (old) film would re-open on May 27th<\/sup>!\u00a0 Perfect, just time for our visit.\u00a0 I love the old film \u2013 nothing wrong with soarin\u2019 over California, excited to ride it again.\u00a0 Wait time = 90 minutes; not surprised, and the wait was in the air conditioned, \u201cThe Land\u201d building, so we waited\u2026and waited\u2026. (foot is beginning to\u00a0 ache now).\u00a0 At one point after we had been standing completely still for some time, the man standing beside Dennis touched his arm to move him along, because, he (Bop) was\u2026.. asleep! Ha, standing up. Think we are a little tired?<\/p>\n

Well, the wait was worth it.\u00a0 Love that ride.<\/p>\n

at the 15 minute mark<\/p>\n

At the hour mark<\/p>\n

We decided to go ride the relaxing, slow boat \u201cLiving in the Land\u201d ride, while we waited on our fast pass time.\u00a0 We stopped for a giant warm pretzel with cheese, to split \u2013 it was so good, much better than the microwaved quickie pretzels from the gymnastic meet concession stands.<\/p>\n

Now, time for Dennis\u2019 medical visit to \u201cMission Space\u201d.\u00a0 Last time he rode this and had a kidney stone, it took care of it immediately \u2013 let\u2019s see if we can have a repeat performance. Spinning and G-Force , I\u2019m sitting this one out \u2013 I can\u2019t do spinning.\u00a0\u00a0 I really wanted a Cr\u00e8me Brulee for dessert tonight but we are eating dinner in China, at \u201cNine Dragons\u201d and France is on the other side of the lake.\u00a0 Kelsi and I discussed and made a plan.\u00a0 Since I am not riding Mission Space, I will take my scooter (ECV) to France while they ride Mission Space, get 2 Cr\u00e8me Brulee\u2019s (Kelsi and I) and meet them in China at 6:15 for our dinner reservations.<\/p>\n

I love walking (or in this case, riding) through all the countries, so took my time and enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells of each one.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Topiary in France of Beauty and the Beast<\/p>\n

The \u201cSpinners\u201d (60\u2019s \u2013 70\u2019s group) were in concert in the \u201cAmerican Gardens\u201d as I passed by and I stopped to listen to 2 songs : \u201cMaking my way back to you\u201d, and \u201c I\u2019ll be around\u201d,\u00a0 they still sounded great, what fun.\u00a0Passing Germany and Italy, I rounded the curve to the large, colorful Pagoda.\u00a0 Bop, Kelsi and Lauryn were walking towards me, laughing and all looking at their i-phones.\u00a0 They had a recording they wanted me to see: A Cast member had spotted Kelsi\u2019s birthday button and had stopped to serenade her. He had stopped her in the middle of the Epcot walkway between Mexico and China and said, \u201c\u2026 wait, let me serenade you\u201c, to which she looked confused and said \u201cwhat does that mean\u201d -\u00a0 (hope her English teacher is not reading this).\u00a0 It was cute as he sang a very formal \u201cHappy Birthday\u201d to her.<\/p>\n

Dinner was good: Kelsi, Lauryn and I had Orange, Sesame Chicken with Fried Rice (Lauryn had Broccoli). Dennis had Steak and Shrimp.<\/p>\n

Creme Brulee' for desert and Chinese for dinner: Frinese for dinner!<\/p>\n

We came out to a wet sidewalk, which meant a wet scooter.\u00a0 The Lotus Blossom Quick Serve stand was nearby so napkins will dry the seat and we are on the way.<\/p>\n

After dinner, we had one more ride we wanted to try and conquer without a Fast Pass and I knew the line would be long. Kelsi\u2019s app said 75 minute wait, so since this was our last ride at Epcot, we decided it would be worth the wait. Always sounds like such a good idea, until you have been in line with hundreds of other people for over an hour, then weariness begins to set in.\u00a0 Finally, we made it to the design (pre-ride) staging room.\u00a0 Dennis and Kelsi designed a sleek powerful car, and Lauryn and I designed a red, turbo charged sports car with super efficiency; both red.\u00a0 We should have snapped a screen shot of our car design, but they were both red and looked cool. Doors are opening now and time to ride.\u00a0 I love the ending of this ride as hair blowing in the wind, we raced around the track a couple of times.<\/p>\n

8:45 p.m.\u00a0 and we were done! Exhausted and a quick bus ride back to the French Quarter and time for a swim. The water felt so good and we stayed about 30 minutes when lightening started in the area and they closed the pool. Tomorrow is our \u201coff-day\u201d.\u00a0 Swimming, shopping and spending time with our family, the Johnson\u2019s, who live about 45 minutes away from the Mouse.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Holy Terror, Here We Come!<\/h3>\n
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Holy Terror, Here We Come!<\/h3>\n

Monday May 30, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n

I was the first one awake early Monday morning.\u00a0 As I opened my daily devotional and thanked the Lord for providing for us, and to really hear from HIM today, the scripture was like an angel in my ear, as I read Psalm 56: 3-4<\/p>\n

When I am afraid,\u00a0I put my trust in you.
4\u00a0<\/sup><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In God, whose word I praise\u2014
in God I trust and am not afraid.
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>What can mere mortals do to me?<\/em><\/p>\n

Ok \u2013 maybe you think it is silly to pray for how I was feeling about getting on a ride, but I take every little concern to God, including this \u2013 If I am getting on this ride, I want to know it\u2019s ok with my Father in Heaven and my best friend.\u00a0 Upon Kelsi\u2019s insistence and her love for \u201c Tower of Terror\u201d at Hollywood Studio\u2019s, I promised her I would ride it.\u00a0 And yes, I was having 2nd<\/sup> thoughts.\u00a0 But God\u2019s Word really did comfort me and in some strange way, give me comfort and peace \u2013 like a \u201cseal of approval\u201d.<\/p>\n

I researched this ride for the last two months \u2013 I knew how the pulley\u2019s work, I knew where the handles are at your side to hold on to, and I knew that when we entered the room where the temperature changed to warm, the first drop sequence was about to begin. So this was the setup for this morning\u2019s agenda. We had a 9:00 fast pass for Tower of Terror at Disney Hollywood Studio\u2019s.<\/p>\n

We were at the bus stop around 8:15 a.m. at our resort, and I had a few Ritz crackers and some bottled water while we waited on the bus. Breakfast would be at 10:00, after Tower of Terror and wanted just a little something on my stomach before riding\u2026 but not much!<\/p>\n

We arrived at Rope Drop and had to wait about 20 minutes.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Arriving at Tower of Terror, we were too early for our Fast Passes, and I asked about the stand by time because it said 20 minutes but everyone was just going straight in \u2013 the cast member said it was more like five (5 minutes) so we decided to go ahead and ride it. Good \u2013 I was weary of the anticipation \u2013 let\u2019s get on with this!!\u00a0 The line was short and before long we were entering our elevator.<\/p>\n

Cute story line and very well done, entering the Twilight Zone, with Ghostly characters and movement into dark corridors of the old hotel. You could feel slight movements of ascending slowly in an elevator. Finally we passed through an area and into a box like compartment (elevator shaft) where the temperature changed (warmer) and we were pulled up quickly then pulled down \u2013 it is not a drop, because you can feel the pressure of being pulled downward. Then pushed up, pulled down \u2013 not bad, I\u2019m still breathing; this is fun!\u00a0 Then I realized we had completed the 4th<\/sup> sequence, and we were pulled up and plunged down again \u2013what, ok, breathing a little heavy now\u00a0 this is # 5 and I \u201cthink\u201d the doors opened (window at the top of the tower) this time \u2013 surely, it\u2019s over, nope after that drop, pulled up one more time \u2013 then pushed down. Final time. Whew, I made it.\u00a0 Fun? Yes!\u00a0 But that was enough for a little while for me.\u00a0 I will ride it again, definitely,\u00a0 It is probably in my top 7 rides on my list. Thank you, Kelsi for insisting I conquer my fears \u2013 Holy Terror, I did it!<\/p>\n

My head is down, so you can't really see me in this picture \u00a0(middle row 3rd from the end on the left - Dennis is beside me and that is Kelsi to my left and Lauryn beside her)<\/p>\n

(see that death grip? - yeah, I have a battle scar from that - bruise on my right upper arm)<\/p>\n

Rockin\u2019 Roller Coaster was close-by so we went to check the stand-by line, 40 minutes, hmm \u2013 we didn\u2019t really have time before breakfast.\u00a0 It was right at our original Fast Pass time for Tower of Terror, so Dennis, Kelsi and Lauryn took the elevator to the 13th<\/sup> floor for a second time.\u00a0 I\u2019ll wait until next trip to revisit.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Next up \u2013 time for breakfast reservations at Hollywood and Vine with Jake, Sophia, Doc McStuffins, and Handy Mandy. This buffet is really good and at some point during the meal, Kelsi declared, \u201c this is the best breakfast I have ever had\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0 Kelsi called Christian when Jake passed by our table and face timed him so he could see.\u00a0 Pictures and autographs with characters \u2013 never too old J\u00a0 it\u2019s a Disney tradition \u2013 gotta do it.<\/p>\n

It took a little while for all of the characters to pass by and pose for the obligatory picture, so by the time we had paid our bill, and walked out \u2013 our food had time to settle before the next ride.\u00a0 We said good bye to one of the cast members, Mikey, from Puerto Rico that we had been talking to before breakfast \u2013 nice guy.\u00a0 He was telling us about having to learn the language when he first moved here and how kids in his class at school tricked him on the meaning of some words\u2026\u00a0 got him a trouble a couple of times \u2013 uh oh!\u00a0\u00a0 You can strike up some interesting conversations with Disney cast members.<\/p>\n

Somewhere around 11:30 \u2013 fast pass time for Rockin\u2019 Roller Coaster. As we took off in the big limousine to the pulsing Aero Smith concert, the G-force (0 to 60 in about 5 seconds) is strong \u2013 the last 2 seconds I began to think \u201cok \u2013 enough of this\u2026\u201d as our first inversion happened and then I was fine, as the force from the blast off lifted away. This ride is totally in the dark, and it was my first time, so I had no idea what was coming.\u00a0 Drops, Spirals, and shooting upwards \u2013 very fun! Glad I rode it \u2013 once, I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll be riding that one again.\u00a0 I really liked the roller coaster ride, just not the blast off.<\/p>\n

Shaky legs for a couple of seconds as I exited the ride \u2013 it\u2019s intense, and the jerkiness bothered Dennis\u2019 neck some, but we are impressing our grandkids \u2013 ha! JTruth is, we like these rides, our bodies just not so much.<\/p>\n

A few minutes left before time for our 3rd<\/sup> fast pass, so we popped into the Great Movie Ride.\u00a0 Settle back and just relax and catch my breath for a few minutes for this slow, classic ride through the movies ride.\u00a0 Always love seeing the Wicked Witch of the West legs and ruby slippers under Dorothy\u2019s house, and of course, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Harrison Ford.<\/p>\n

Time now for Star Tours \u2013 my favorite ride at Hollywood Studio\u2019s. It is a simulator ride, but Disney does an excellent job making it feel and look so real.\u00a0 After exiting, Dennis snapped a few photos of Dark Vader on stage to send to Christian. Here ya go, buddy, just for you!<\/p>\n

We made our way to the exit of The Studio\u2019s and found the bus to Epcot for the rest of the day, but not before getting a couple of Frozen Lemonade\u2019s.\u00a0 It is HOT,\u00a0 gotta stay hydrated.\u00a0\u00a0 See you over by the big White Spaceship Earth!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Asleep at the Wheel - or in the Queue (Monday P.M. - Epcot)<\/h3>\n
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Asleep at the Wheel - or in the Queue (Monday P.M. - Epcot)<\/h3>\n

Monday May 30, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n

I\u2019m getting better at maneuvering on and off the Disney Bus Transportation with my scooter.\u00a0 I rented for the entire length of stay from Buena Vista Scooters. Good company, and I would highly recommend them \u2013 they are very reasonable (less than half price of renting at the parks) and the price includes Damage Waiver and Insurance.\u00a0 Within 10-15 minutes, we arrived at Epcot.\u00a0 My finger scan didn\u2019t work at the entrance, but a cast member with an I-Pad had me fixed in no-time and we were off to our next adventure: Lunch. We went to Sunshine Seasons Counter Serve in \u201cThe Land\u201d.\u00a0 Lauryn and I ate a kids meal, just something to hold us over until Dinner. Dennis had a chicken sandwich, that was 90% bread, and Kelsi ate weird fish taco\u2019s (her description). \u00a0Well, not great \u2013 but we didn\u2019t spend a fortune and we were satisfied- sort of, so now to the important stuff: Soarin\u2019 is OPEN!<\/p>\n

Just a quick news byte on Soarin\u2019 to those who may not be Disney Nerds like me: This ride has been down for the installation of a new film and redesign, with a re-open date announced for June 17. Two weeks before we left, I received news from my Disney Travel Agent Site that the original (old) film would re-open on May 27th<\/sup>!\u00a0 Perfect, just time for our visit.\u00a0 I love the old film \u2013 nothing wrong with soarin\u2019 over California, excited to ride it again.\u00a0 Wait time = 90 minutes; not surprised, and the wait was in the air conditioned, \u201cThe Land\u201d building, so we waited\u2026and waited\u2026. (foot is beginning to\u00a0 ache now).\u00a0 At one point after we had been standing completely still for some time, the man standing beside Dennis touched his arm to move him along, because, he (Bop) was\u2026.. asleep! Ha, standing up. Think we are a little tired?<\/p>\n

Well, the wait was worth it.\u00a0 Love that ride.<\/p>\n

at the 15 minute mark<\/p>\n

At the hour mark<\/p>\n

We decided to go ride the relaxing, slow boat \u201cLiving in the Land\u201d ride, while we waited on our fast pass time.\u00a0 We stopped for a giant warm pretzel with cheese, to split \u2013 it was so good, much better than the microwaved quickie pretzels from the gymnastic meet concession stands.<\/p>\n

Now, time for Dennis\u2019 medical visit to \u201cMission Space\u201d.\u00a0 Last time he rode this and had a kidney stone, it took care of it immediately \u2013 let\u2019s see if we can have a repeat performance. Spinning and G-Force , I\u2019m sitting this one out \u2013 I can\u2019t do spinning.\u00a0\u00a0 I really wanted a Cr\u00e8me Brulee for dessert tonight but we are eating dinner in China, at \u201cNine Dragons\u201d and France is on the other side of the lake.\u00a0 Kelsi and I discussed and made a plan.\u00a0 Since I am not riding Mission Space, I will take my scooter (ECV) to France while they ride Mission Space, get 2 Cr\u00e8me Brulee\u2019s (Kelsi and I) and meet them in China at 6:15 for our dinner reservations.<\/p>\n

I love walking (or in this case, riding) through all the countries, so took my time and enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells of each one.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Topiary in France of Beauty and the Beast<\/p>\n

The \u201cSpinners\u201d (60\u2019s \u2013 70\u2019s group) were in concert in the \u201cAmerican Gardens\u201d as I passed by and I stopped to listen to 2 songs : \u201cMaking my way back to you\u201d, and \u201c I\u2019ll be around\u201d,\u00a0 they still sounded great, what fun.\u00a0Passing Germany and Italy, I rounded the curve to the large, colorful Pagoda.\u00a0 Bop, Kelsi and Lauryn were walking towards me, laughing and all looking at their i-phones.\u00a0 They had a recording they wanted me to see: A Cast member had spotted Kelsi\u2019s birthday button and had stopped to serenade her. He had stopped her in the middle of the Epcot walkway between Mexico and China and said, \u201c\u2026 wait, let me serenade you\u201c, to which she looked confused and said \u201cwhat does that mean\u201d -\u00a0 (hope her English teacher is not reading this).\u00a0 It was cute as he sang a very formal \u201cHappy Birthday\u201d to her.<\/p>\n

Dinner was good: Kelsi, Lauryn and I had Orange, Sesame Chicken with Fried Rice (Lauryn had Broccoli). Dennis had Steak and Shrimp.<\/p>\n

Creme Brulee' for desert and Chinese for dinner: Frinese for dinner!<\/p>\n

We came out to a wet sidewalk, which meant a wet scooter.\u00a0 The Lotus Blossom Quick Serve stand was nearby so napkins will dry the seat and we are on the way.<\/p>\n

After dinner, we had one more ride we wanted to try and conquer without a Fast Pass and I knew the line would be long. Kelsi\u2019s app said 75 minute wait, so since this was our last ride at Epcot, we decided it would be worth the wait. Always sounds like such a good idea, until you have been in line with hundreds of other people for over an hour, then weariness begins to set in.\u00a0 Finally, we made it to the design (pre-ride) staging room.\u00a0 Dennis and Kelsi designed a sleek powerful car, and Lauryn and I designed a red, turbo charged sports car with super efficiency; both red.\u00a0 We should have snapped a screen shot of our car design, but they were both red and looked cool. Doors are opening now and time to ride.\u00a0 I love the ending of this ride as hair blowing in the wind, we raced around the track a couple of times.<\/p>\n

8:45 p.m.\u00a0 and we were done! Exhausted and a quick bus ride back to the French Quarter and time for a swim. The water felt so good and we stayed about 30 minutes when lightening started in the area and they closed the pool. Tomorrow is our \u201coff-day\u201d.\u00a0 Swimming, shopping and spending time with our family, the Johnson\u2019s, who live about 45 minutes away from the Mouse.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

\u201cMore Milkshake\u201d? ... \u201cJust a little, please\u201d \u2026 \u201cSuuuurrre\u201d!<\/h3>\n
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\u201cMore Milkshake\u201d? ... \u201cJust a little, please\u201d \u2026 \u201cSuuuurrre\u201d!<\/h3>\n

Tuesday May 31, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n

A lazy morning, we slept in and took our time getting ready to go to the Sassagoula Float Works Food court at our resort. Beignets were calling my name \u2013 it has been over five years since I have had one, and I am ready.\u00a0 Unfortunately, they were not as good as I remembered, still good \u2013 but I think the dough was over worked \u2013 a little tough (according to Alton Brown\u2019s theory).\u00a0 Anna Grace or AG (Johnson) had a teacher work-day today and was coming to join us.\u00a0 Laura (AG\u2019s mom) and little sister, Abbi and AG met us right after breakfast and joined us for a couple of hours at the pool.<\/p>\n

\u00a0Laura and Abbi headed home before lunch and the rest of us rode the ferry boat from our hotel to Disney Springs (new name for Downtown Disney) for lunch.\u00a0 We had a couple of coupons for Earl of Sandwich, so that was our pick for lunch.\u00a0 Kelsi bought a Minnie Ears Red Shirt and we window shopped for a while before heading back to get ready for dinner. Five (5) people (4 girls and 1 guy) need showers before leaving for our dinner reservations.\u00a0\u00a0 One person in the shower,\u00a0 one getting ready to hop in, one coming out into the dressing area (love the privacy curtain in the dressing area that sections off the bedroom and TV section of the room).\u00a0 Our assembly line worked well and we left on time.\u00a0 Took a Resort Bus to the Magic Kingdom, and then planned to take the Ferry across Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake to the Wilderness Lodge for dinner at Whispering Canyon.\u00a0\u00a0 As we neared the queue area waiting on our boat, we could see the top of our ride rounding the corner to the dock \u2013 perfect timing!\u00a0 Except for the jagged streak lighting up the sky amidst dark skies.\u00a0 The Skipper at the dock explained to us that they just radioed to say they were taking our boat out of commission because of lightening in the area. The Disney boat masters were sending another boat \u2013 the large ferry that could still operate in lightening, but it would be a few minutes before it arrived.<\/p>\n

I texted Laura since her family had arrived early and she let the dining room know what was going on and that we would be few minutes late.\u00a0 Her family explored the Wilderness Resort and joined in on a Hidden Mickey Scavenger Hunt. This resort is beautiful, yet rustic \u2013 very cool.\u00a0 A little over my budget, but I love to visit here and this dinner tonight has become a Disney tradition for us; especially when we are with first-timers; so much fun.<\/p>\n

We finally arrived about 10 minutes late and were seated quickly after arriving. Settling in, we ordered our food. This restaurant is by Southern terms, a hoot!\u00a0 Loud and fun, while waiting on our food, Abbi sucked on a lemon (her mom\u2019s doing\u2026) and Sam and Lydia joined in the pony race (Stick horses) and the Hokey Pokey.\u00a0 Most at our table ordered the Family Style Skillet (pork, beef, chicken, ribs, corn and potatoes, with salad). Lauryn and I ordered Ribs.<\/p>\n

(Spoiler Alert below \u2013 if you have never been to Whispering Canyon)<\/p>\n

As soon as our food arrived, Sam asked for Ketchup (we prompted him to ask) and the waitress \u201chollered\u201d loudly, \u201cWe Need Ketchup\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0 Three bottles arrived (people bring them from their own table), then two more, then a few more \u2013 whoa \u2013 enough! Everyone was laughing. The food is so good here and we enjoyed our visit here with our family, the Johnson\u2019s.\u00a0 The waitress came around asking for refills and asked me if I wanted more Milkshake, and I motioned that I just wanted a little more, and Sam ask for a Large refill of ice water and in her Southern drawl smiled and said, \u201cSuuuurrrre\u201d! \u00a0<\/p>\n

The waitress appeared back with a tiny 3-4 inch cup of vanilla milkshake for me and a giant 1.5 liter glass of water for Sam. We laughed so hard and Sam kept mimicking her over and over saying \u201cSuuuurrre\u201d!\u00a0 Sam kept eating \u201cmore potato\u2019s and sausage, please\u201d and insisted he needed to finish his very large water.\u00a0<\/p>\n

I told him when he went to bed that night he was just going to blow up.\u00a0 As we were settling the bill and preparing to leave \u2013 guess where Sam was - yep, restroom as right around the corner!\u00a0 I have a feeling he may have had to stop again on the way home.\u00a0 Lauryn and Kelsi of course had to share how many times I sprayed our shoes with Lysol. Laura just shook her head \u2013 she knows me and loves me anyway J<\/p>\n

For a rest day, we stayed pretty busy, and with lightening in the area, and a busy day planned for tomorrow, we turned in early.\u00a0\u00a0 Night all!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

An Indian Princess and Cake Pops (Wed a.m.)<\/h3>\n
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An Indian Princess and Cake Pops (Wed a.m.)<\/h3>\n

Wednesday June 1, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n

Up early again on Wednesday morning, headed to Animal Kingdom.\u00a0 We had made our 3 Fast Pass reservations for later in the day at Magic Kingdom, so our plan here was to arrive early, ride three (3) rides and leave in time to make our lunch reservation at the Beauty and Beast Castle at 12:45.\u00a0 We arrived again by rope drop and the girls headed off to ride Expedition Everest as soon as the park officially opened, while Dennis and I stopped by Starbucks for breakfast \u201cCreature Comforts\u201d. The Mickey Ears Cinnamon roll was so good and of course, I had to have my Vanilla Bean Frappuccino, Yum.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Now my turn to find my favorite princess: Pocahontas. My great grandmother was full blooded Indian, and supposedly Indian Princess so the story goes from my paternal grandmother\u2019s side of the family. She married my great grandfather, Reuben Levi Daugherty.\u00a0 Like I said before, when at Disney \u2013 never too old to find the pixie dust moments:<\/p>\n

While we were standing in line, Dennis took his camera out of the bag to shoot a few practice photo\u2019s in the jungle type environment we were walking through when he discovered that there was no SD card in the camera. Uh-oh, my bad!\u00a0 Working on my blog, Tuesday night, I had loaded the SD card into my computer to download the pictures from the last couple of days and left it in the slot when I shut it down for the night. \u00a0Dennis walked to the nearest souvenir shop to buy one, quickly, $40! Ouch \u2013 there went the budget for the day.\u00a0 Thankfully, we had been running under budget on prior days.<\/p>\n

Kelsi and Lauryn were also riding Primeaval Whirl and then we were to meet up at 11:00 a.m. at Kali River Rapids in the Asia section.\u00a0 Dennis and I were early so I sent a text to Kelsi to let her know we were there waiting on them, whenever they were finished riding.\u00a0 About that time, they walked around the corner, so Kelsi and I hopped on the wet rafting ride, while Bop and Lauryn opted to stay dry.\u00a0 The day was already proving to be hot with a strong summer sun overhead, so the idea of getting wet was appealing to me.\u00a0 We both only got heavily sprinkled as we watched a guy on our raft and a small boy get drenched.<\/p>\n

(monkeys surround us)<\/p>\n

The girls had not had breakfast yet, so we stopped back by \u201cCreature Comforts\u201d (aka Starbucks), and they opted for a Frappuccino and Cake Pops\u2026 interesting choice (that is allowed when you are on vacation and with Nana and Bop, I suppose).\u00a0 Time to exit now and onto the Magic Kingdom! \u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Pass the Whip, please<\/h3>\n
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Pass the Whip, please<\/h3>\n

Wednesday June 1, 2016<\/p>\n

In past years, bus transportation did not route park to park, you had to stop at a resort first. Now, thankfully, that has changed, and just a quick bus ride from Animal Kingdom and we arrived at the Magic Kingdom around 11:45. We had one hour before our lunch reservations so no rush, and maybe we could sneak in one ride before lunch.\u00a0 Crowds were thick here.\u00a0 I love this park, and even though Epcot is my favorite Disney park, the Magic Kingdom, as Kelsi says, just feels like the real Disney \u2013 she\u2019s right, it really does.\u00a0 We walked down mainstreet and through Cinderella\u2019s Castle. Lines were long, and a quick glance at the MDE(my Disney experience Wait times) app, showed nothing under 40 minutes and that would push our lunch time.\u00a0 The cute 4 D show, PhilHarMagic had a reasonable wait time (10 minutes) and a 15 minute show \u2013 that would work perfect, plus it would keep us out of the intense Florida summer heat.\u00a0 I love how everyone in the audience reaches for Donald that is sitting 2 inches from our nose \u2013 well, when you have the special glasses on J<\/p>\n

We walked across the bridge to the Beauty and the Beast Castle and checked in for lunch and issued the \u201cRose\u201d pager. Within five (5) minutes, it lit and we walked into the castle where we placed our orders at the kiosk, paid, and set off to find a seat in one of three individually themed dining rooms: a) the ball room\u00a0 - where the \u201cBe Our Guest\u201d dinner took place and Belle and Beast danced; b) The West Wing (with the Enchanted Rose) C) The Rose Room.\u00a0<\/p>\n

We opted for the dark and forbidden West Wing, where lightning and thunder echo and flash throughout the room and the illuminated rose with petals falling sits as the centerpiece of the room.<\/p>\n

Dennis, Kelsi and I ordered the Croque Monsieur (French for ham and cheese), and Lauryn\u00a0had Shrimp and Broccoli. I love the atmosphere of this restaurant, probably more than the food \u2013 it\u2019s just hmm \u2013 a ham and cheese sandwich.\u00a0 We finished lunch, took some pictures and then exited for our first Fast Pass of the day on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.<\/p>\n

What fun -\u00a0 this is a new ride for all of us (it had not opened when I was here last), very well themed, and a smooth roller coaster ride \u2013 perfect.\u00a0 We had a little time before our next FP, so the girls grabbed a quick ride on the Carousel while we waited on a special \u201cscooter\u201d time given to us for \u201cIt\u2019s a Small World\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That song always gets stuck in my head.\u00a0<\/p>\n

(weird bit of Trivia here on Small World - see Kelsi's name on the screen - this was near the end. \u00a0Disney tracks you through a radio frequency on your Magic Band (RIFD technology) and knows where and who you are throughout the park. Some rides will use this to flash a hello or goodbye to you - FUN, but a little strange).<\/p>\n

\u00a0Next up, across the park to Frontier Land for Splash Mountain.\u00a0 We kept to the right of the walking paths to avoid the line-up for the 3:00 p.m. parade and were on shortly after entering the line\u2026 always an exciting ride.<\/p>\n

It was very hot but we were managing to stay relatively cool on rides and in stores or inside queues. What better way to stay cool than hydrate with a yummy Dole Whip Float at Aloha Isle. We ordered three (Kelsi, Lauryn and I) and Dennis opted for the Dole Whip in a cup. \u00a0This has to be my favorite Disney snack ever! Time for my favorite ride and of course, I got a FP, for this one \u2013 Space \u2013 Mountain style!!<\/p>\n

Afterwards, we took a slow spin on People Mover and then onto Buzz Lightyear.\u00a0 Dennis beat us all with a score of 100,000.\u00a0 I think I scored about 18,000 and Lauryn had 7,000 \u2013 truth, I like to spin the car more than shoot the targets J.<\/p>\n

Time for Dinner and a short break from the park as we made our way out of the Magic Kingdom and over to the monorail toward the Grand Floridian.\u00a0 After traversing through the Contemporary and Polynesian resorts we arrived at our destination and took the elevator down to the Grand Floridian Caf\u00e9. \u00a0Lauryn sat down, looked at the menu and quickly announced,\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve been eating kids meals for the last 2 days\u00a0 (her choice, by the way) I\u2019m having steak tonight \u2013 the NY Strip\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0 She said it tasted great.\u00a0 I had Mushroom Chicken, Bop \u2013 the Pork Chop Dinner, and Kelsi had the Shrimp and Penne Pasta.<\/p>\n

We arrived back at the park in time for the night-time Electrical Parade and found a great place to sit along the curb right in front of the Train Station. The lights on the floats were pretty, but this parade seemed lacking somehow, just a few main characters and just missing the punch of \u201cpixie dust\u201d and magical imagination.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Afterwards, we climbed the stairs to the top of the Train Station to view \u201cWishes\u201d \u2013 the nighttime fireworks.\u00a0 I had read this is a coveted spot by many repeat Disney lovers, so decided to give it a try.\u00a0 Apparently, many people know about this little secret because it was fairly crowded, but we did find a place to sit, just had to move around once in a while to see Wishes; good view.<\/p>\n

About half way through Wishes,\u00a0 Kelsi and Lauryn went to visit Ariel in her grotto (it\u2019s a tradition that began almost 13 years ago).<\/p>\n

\u00a0Kelsi and Lauryn with Ariel<\/p>\n

a very young Kelsi with Ariel (2004)<\/p>\n

Then onto Thunder Mountain Railroad Rollercoaster (TMRR).\u00a0 Bop and I met them at the exit of TMRR (after we passed through Adventure Land one more time and split another Dole Whip Float).\u00a0 Kelsi and Laruyn, wanted to ride Splash Mountain again, but I didn\u2019t want to get wet again, but we would make our way back over there after a ride on Pirates of the Caribbean.\u00a0 While on Pirates, as we were floating calmly through the ride with all 4 of us in the very front of the boat, we came to the incline and small drop.\u00a0 We hit some serious speed with our weight in the front of the boat and got soaked!\u00a0 Ok \u2013 so may as well ride Splash with the girls now \u2013 I\u2019m already wet.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

It is about 11:45 p.m. now and the second Electrical Light Parade was passing through Frontier Land.\u00a0 Once it finished, we crossed the street to head toward Splash, and sadly it was closed.\u00a0\u00a0 We were tired, and wet and Kelsi had developed some type of rash on her legs that was beginning to itch, so the girls initiated the \u201cwe\u2019re done \u2013 let\u2019s go\u201d about midnight.\u00a0 Walking toward the exit on Main street, we stopped to have a picture made and of course, had to stop at the Confectionary for a chocolate covered strawberry in honor of Ick (Ick\u2019s favorite memory of DW).<\/p>\n

note - Kelsi googled information on her rash and found out it is called a \"Disney Rash\" \u00a0caused by the heat from the pavement and the sun, bursting small blood-vessels near the skin.\u00a0<\/p>\n

It was a great day and we accomplished everything we had set out to do and more.\u00a0 Tomorrow, we wave goodbye to Mickey and head for the beach!\u00a0 It\u2019s been fun \u2013 and I have my Disney fix now until time to take the younger ones.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

One Final Spray<\/h3>\n
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One Final Spray<\/h3>\n

Thursday June 3, 2016<\/p>\n

Returning the scooter (ECV) to bell services, and packing up after a lazy morning sleeping in on Thursday, we prepared to leave about 9:30 a.m.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Ensuring everything was out of the bathroom and dressing area, and emptying the dirty clothes pop-up hamper, with Lysol can in my hand, we opted for a last picture in the Disney Resort room at the French Quarter \u2013 One Final Spray (of Lysol).<\/p>\n

Chick-Filet was the breakfast of choice that morning as we left the World of Disney Resort area, then a quick stop by Wal-Mart for souvenirs for the three grandchildren at home.\u00a0 Two Disney 2016 Beach Towels for Savannah and Kayna and a Darth Vader Beach Towel for Christian.\u00a0<\/p>\n

With that all taken care of, we headed out on I-95 toward Jacksonville.\u00a0 Now, get me to the beach!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Don't Drink and Drive, Eat a Pita to Stay Alive - Good bye from Jacksonville Beach<\/h3>\n
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Don't Drink and Drive, Eat a Pita to Stay Alive - Good bye from Jacksonville Beach<\/h3>\n

Friday June 3, 2016<\/p>\n

Lunch on the way in as we arrived in Jacksonville was at Olive Garden.\u00a0 A few months ago when Lauryn and I had been out shopping together, I had picked up two gift cards from the restaurant of her choice for us to use on the last day of vacation; always a good choice and delicious as usual.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Jacksonville Beach is beautiful! Hard packed and easy to walk on, much like Daytona Beach, but without the cars on the beach, pristine clean, white sand; populated, but not crowded- near perfect.\u00a0 We drove to the Hampton Inn and Suites\u2026.but it was not on the beach! Uh-oh, we chose the wrong location when keying into our GPS. We quickly re-routed and were only 10 minutes away from the correct Hampton Inn and Suites, Oceanfront. We had a corner room, with a nice ocean view, right over the gorgeous pool below, complete with water fall. \u00a0<\/p>\n

As soon as we neared Jacksonville this morning, I told the girls the stories of when Bop and I used to come to Jax every year for the Pastor\u2019s conferences, and every Sunday afternoon after church and lunch, my friend Kathy Rainwater and I would head to the beach for a few hours.\u00a0 It was in January and too cold to swim, but we would sit on the beach and watch the waves, and God\u2019s beautiful handiwork and enjoy visiting. We both love the beach and no-one else in our group cared for it, so we made this our yearly tradition.<\/p>\n

When we would pass a souvenir shop, or a particular public beach entrance I would say something about, \u201c I remember that shop, Kathy and I shopped there for your gifts one year\u201d\u00a0 or \u201c this is where Kathy and I parked to enter the public beach area\u2026.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 Lauryn and Kelsi love to make fun of me and this presented the perfect opportunity\u2026 \u201c it\u2019s Kathy again\u2026. It\u2019s all about Kathy \u201c, they taunted.\u00a0\u00a0 That became a running joke while we were at the beach.<\/p>\n

We spent some time on the beach and the water was so clear and warm.\u00a0 Waves were a little strong and I had a hard time standing on my injured leg (Achilles tendon) in the shifting sand for long periods of time, so Dennis and took turns holding the camera and splashing in the water with the girls.\u00a0 Up to the pool for a few minutes, and the water was just as warm and inviting. This pool, complete with waterfalls and Jacuzzi was beautiful.<\/p>\n

We all took quick showers and while Dennis waited on the rest of us to get ready, he used my new laptop to cruise through restaurants in the area.\u00a0 He found a couple of interesting places and Kelsi went over to the computer to look at one and for some reason, touched the screen \u2013 it moved!\u00a0 \u201cNana, look \u2013 here, put your finger here and move!\u00a0 You have a touch screen!\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cA what?\u00a0 Really?\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We called Dennis over there and asked him to touch the screen and he was as shocked as were\u00a0 - my laptop doubles as a tablet!\u00a0 We had no idea we were getting that feature when we bought it last Saturday!\u00a0 What a prize!<\/p>\n

We settled on Salt Life for Dinner.\u00a0 Again, the girls made fun of me because I said I had never heard of \u201cSalt Life\u201d.\u00a0 Well, I have now, and their food was delicious!\u00a0 On the way to dinner, we saw the funniest advertisement sign on a restaurant that specializes in Pita sandwiches:<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t drink and drive, eat and Pita to stay alive\u201d!<\/p>\n

\u00a0Lauryn and Kelsi loved that and kept saying it over and over.\u00a0 Lauryn snap- chatted it and changed it to \u201cdon\u2019t text and drive, eat a Pita to stay alive\u201d.\u00a0 Hilarious - every time we passed the sign, we all began chanting the rhyme\u2026. Guess you had to be there to appreciate the real humor.<\/p>\n

At Salt Life Caf\u00e9, Kelsi and Lauryn had:<\/p>\n

BEACH BOIL<\/p>\n

shrimp, snow crab legs, sausage, corn, onions and potatoes served in our seasoned boil.<\/p>\n

Bop had<\/p>\n

SOUTHERN FRIED SHRIMP 14.99<\/p>\n

seasoned hand-breaded shrimp, fried to perfection served with fries and our famous shack sauce.<\/p>\n

And I had this wonderful dish:<\/p>\n

SHRIMP BRO CHETTE\u2022 15.99<\/p>\n

large shrimp wrapped in applewood-smoked bacon, grilled with pineapples and brushed with hawaiian teriyaki glaze. served with tropical fried rice. garnished with sesame seeds.<\/p>\n

Yum \u2013 O : \u2018nuff said<\/p>\n

We shopped quickly after dinner at a nearby store (yes, the one Kathy and I had been to in year\u2019s past) but didn\u2019t find anything of interest except we did pick up a crab net.\u00a0 We went back to the beach for a while to try crabbing, and Lauryn did find a crab fossil and some interesting shells in-tact. We swam in the pool until about 9:20 (told Dennis we would be back by 9:00 \u2013 oops, didn\u2019t mean to run a little late \u2013 he was a little worried).\u00a0 Girls tried to make hot tea in the complementary drink area in the lobby, but the water was cold, so skip that \u2013 time for bed!<\/p>\n

The next morning, we all grabbed a quick bite for breakfast from the complimentary offerings at Hampton, and made a quick visit back to the ocean and finished up at the pool.\u00a0 I grabbed a quick nap while drying off, then upstairs to pack and out by 10:30 a.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n

We stopped by the Salt Life store in town to pick up a gift for Lauryn\u2019s friend, Wade, and she bought a strap for her glasses.\u00a0 Homeward bound!<\/p>\n

Arriving home about 6:45 p.m. we met Kristi and family at Rodney\u2019s BBQ for dinner and swapped the girls, for my mom (she had been visiting Kristi while we were away).\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Maybe it wasn\u2019t perfect, maybe it cost a little more that I planned, but until Jacksonville and the last day, we stayed mostly under budget, so Bop and I call this trip a rousing success and a whole lot of fun!\u00a0 Traveling with these two girls couldn\u2019t have been any better.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ll end this the way it started with a few of our favorite things:<\/p>\n

Favorite Character Experience:<\/p>\n

Kelsi and Lauryn\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ariel<\/p>\n

Penni\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Pocahontas<\/p>\n

Favorite Ride:<\/p>\n

Kelsi and Lauryn\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tower of Terror<\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tower of Terror and Star Tours<\/p>\n

Penni\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Space Mountain and Star Tours<\/p>\n

Favorite Meal:<\/p>\n

Penni\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Salt Life (Jax Beach) and Hollywood and Vine<\/p>\n

Bop\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Whispering Canyon Cafe<\/p>\n

Lauryn\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Grand Floridian Caf\u00e9 Steak<\/p>\n

Kelsi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hollywood and Vine or Whispering Canyon Caf\u00e9<\/p>\n

Thanks for following along \u2013 I love sharing our Disney Family experiences with all of you. Christian has already claimed his turn (probably with Savannah) next, so we\u2019ll be back (2018)?<\/p>\n

Until then,\u00a0 have a magical day!\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

\n
\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
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