Sue Holland
10-01-2009, 03:58 PM
Who/When/Where:
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – turning 23
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple),
Dates: September 18 - 20, 2009
Travel Method: Personal car
Resort: Disney’s Bay Lake Tower
Experience: Very experienced – first stay at this resort
INTRODUCTION:
My last trip to WDW ended Sept 8th so this trip came up in no time at all – especially considering I was only home 5 nights before leaving for Gainesville. At the end of my work week there we head back to WDW. This time we’re staying at Bay Lake Tower (BLT) and celebrating Chris’ 23rd birthday. This “free” birthday promotion is costing me a small fortune but that’s what money & dvc points are for!
Originally I had a free dining reservation at Pop Century and a lake view studio at BLT. I figured Chris could sleep at Pop, we’d stay at BLT and we’d all enjoy the meal credits. But, Chris mentioned bringing friends and those rinky dink value resort rooms would be awful if 4 adults were sharing one. In addition we had made plans to celebrate his birthday (a night early) at Hoop Dee Doo Revue so I called to book him a studio at BLT since it made more sense to be there. I then canceled the free dining reservation – getting “free” meals isn’t worth staying in a value when there’s BLT!
When I called for Chris I was surprised to find standard view available, so I booked that figuring he & his friends would never be in the room anyway. The plans are for Chris & 3 of his friends to drive up from Ft Myers while SB & I will be coming from Gainesville. Friday night we have the 7:15 Hoop Dee Doo Revue – it includes bud light draft at no charge, so Chris’ friends can drink without paying anything. SB loves the food & corny show, and I enjoy it also. I’ll be sure to point out Chris when they ask about birthdays during the show! Saturday the young people are going to Magic Kingdom, and that’s where we may head as well – mainly for the convenience. That night SB & I have an early dinner reservation at Kona Café – first time for him and it’s been many years since my last visit. I do want to see the Electric Water Pageant out on the lake and would like to get up to the lounge for Wishes. It’s a short trip, so there’s not much time to fit a lot in! But, we’ll be back the following weekend and then the weekend after that for a longer trip.
Saturday evening Chris & his friends plan to watch some of the Gator game at ESPN and then head to City Walk at Universal. He invited us to come along, but neither of us were interested – too old, and it’s not Disney <g>. Sunday I think Chris & his friends may pool hop (perk of being dvc) somewhere before going home, while SB & I will probably hit Downtown Disney and maybe have lunch at T-Rex. That’s if he doesn’t just want breakfast at Puck’s again.
I’m not looking forward to the weather – it’s still brutally hot down here. With free dining going on the restaurants will be madhouses, but we’ll survive. It’ll be fun to try the new resort, although I did come check it out 2 weekends ago. It’s not somewhere I’ll stay often, but it’s worth doing once in a while for a relatively short trip. It’s just not convenient to anywhere but Magic Kingdom.
As recently as last weekend we weren’t sure when SB would be getting back from baseball. His team made it into the playoffs, and had they gone all the way it could have not ended until a day or so after this trip ends! As it turned out they lost during the 1st round and he flew back to FL and drove to join me in lovely Gainesville this past Monday. So, he hasn’t been home yet <g>.
The plans so far are:
Friday 9/18: Work Gainesville, c/in BLT, Hoop Dee Doo Revue
Saturday 9/19: Magic Kingdom, Kona Café, Wishes
Sunday 9/20: Downtown Disney, Drive home
DAY 1 – Friday 9/18/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – turning 23
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple)
Plan: Work Gainesville, c/in BLT, Hoop Dee Doo Revue
Actual: I was out the door just before 11 and drove back to Homewood to pick up SB. I thought he’d be waiting in the lobby, but there was no sign of him. This morning I’d suggested we load the car before I went to work, but he insisted he could handle it. Well, after 10 minutes he calls saying he needs my help (grrrr). I met him at the elevator and took the luggage cart from him. We loaded up the car as my work cell phone was ringing. I couldn’t deal with it just then, though. We got in the car and the GPS was blaring away when my personal cell rang – only 1 person has both numbers so I answered to see what Michael needed & took care of an issue.
We arrived on Disney property around 1:30 and drove to the Contemporary to check in. I’d done online check in so that went pretty quickly, but I had to go to the concierge to get the tickets for Hoop Dee Doo Revue tonight. The cast member said “oooh you got the good seats”, meaning category 1. Category 1 is a whole $5 more than category 2, and to me it’s totally worth it. I’d skip Hoop before I’d buy a category 2 or 3 seat.
We parked over at Bay Lake Tower and brought our stuff up to the room. We’re on the 8th floor, north wing but on the inside. The view directly outside is the south wing, but I turn to the left I see the pool and lake beyond that. This is NOT an impressive view at all – assuming I stay here again I’ll be requesting an outside room vs this inside studio. The studio itself is in great condition and looks very nice. The balcony is very large compared to the other resorts. The bathroom has a sliding door, but that’s hardly the end of the world. The combo kitchenette and bath sink doesn’t bother either one of us – again, life’s too short. There’s plenty of storage space in here – and the studio does feel smaller than most of the other studios.
I unpacked somewhat and we decided (his idea) to head down to the pool bar. However, when I mentioned an air conditioned bar he thought that was a better idea. We wandered around BLT (missed the bridge at first) and eventually found our way over to the Contemporary. We were headed to the Outer Rim (or what’s left of it) but it wasn’t open. We tried CA Grill but as expected that wasn’t open either. Finally we went out to the pool bar at the Contemporary, and although they had some air conditioning it was still pretty warm.
We were the only 2 sitting in there, although others came in from the pool to order drinks. The bartender wasn’t your typical cast member. He was an older guy with horrible teeth and a strange personality. SB had a couple Michelob ultras (at $6.50 each) and I had a couple banana cabanas (at $7.25 each). He also had a hot dog and later had a turkey sandwich. All together it was over $50 – only at Disney!
We left there around 3 or so and decided to visit Animal Kingdom. The bus came fairly quickly and stopped at the Polynesian next. We ended up being the only people on the bus after that so the driver asked if we wanted him to stop at Blizzard Beach. Of course we said no, and were thankful to not have to stop there.
At Animal Kingdom we had no wait to get in – I’d wisely not taken a bag with me, but there weren’t any real lines at the bag check. It was hotter than hell, with very high humidity – just miserable. We walked back to Harambe and SB stopped to get a bottle of water but the line was moving too slowly for his patience so we continued on. At the safari we walked right on even though only 1 boarding area was still open. It was warmer than I’d like butit was a good safari. Later in the day certain animals are more active it seems.
After the safari we walked to Camp Minnie Mickey and had about 10 minutes to wait for the doors to open for the 4:30 Festival of the Lion King. The show was perhaps half full, and we were seated right near the front at the end of a row next to where the cast enter the theater. SB loves this show and I enjoy it too – I just don’t see it unless I’m with him since that’s often enough. It’s very impressive and not what you expect from a theme park show!
When the show ended it was after 5 and the park was closed so we headed out to our waiting Contemporary bus! Unfortunately this time we stopped at Blizzard Beach, but since we had no wait it wasn’t a big deal. We had a short time to relax in the room & enjoy the frigid temperature. SB thought it was cold, but I was so hot earlier I loved the cold air in here!
Just before 6 I called Chris and found they were still on the road! We agreed to leave at 6:30 to get the boat, and they ended up arriving around 6:20. Marie came up to our room (I went down to get her) so she could change her clothes while Chris & Andrew went to check in. When they finished that they went to the marina and waited for the rest of us.
SB, Marie & I walked over to the marina at the Contemporary and I didn’t recognize Chris at all. I saw 2 guys but had no idea they were Chris & Andrew – Marie recognized them. Chris was wearing a baseball cap, which he seldom does. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a familiar face but walked by until I realized it was Bill/Major Woody! Since retiring he works as a Wishes cruise captain, and he knew we’d be here. He offered us a private ride to Fort Wilderness, which we gladly accepted. It was wonderful and such nice special treatment!
Bill had a birthday Wishes cruise to do, but the people weren’t due to arrive until later. We checked in for Hoop Dee Doo Revue and it was then that I learned Chris didn’t have a 3rd friend. So, I paid for 6 people but we were only 5. Had I known earlier, I could have invited a local friend. Chris joked to find someone here, and SB was horrified at the idea of having to sit with a stranger <g>. So, we kept it the 5 of us and they just removed 1 of our chairs. We had about 15 minutes to kill so we went to Crockett’s Tavern where SB bought a round of drinks. I passed, since I’d have sangria inside Pioneer Hall. We hung around outside until the doors opened and the line started moving.
Our table wasn’t exactly ideal – it was right up against the stage but in the far corner. As a result, our view was somewhat sideways and depending on where the actors were standing my view of the actor speaking/singing was blocked by another. But, I’ve been here many times – it was the first time for Andrew & Marie. When the cast came in I was pleased to see Jennifer Broussard as the Claire character. Chris recognized her from her old Comedy Warehouse days. The Six Bits guy was the same as last time but I think the others were different. They did a great job – this show is so corny but it’s so much fun!
The food was excellent tonight – everything was great. In the past sometimes something would be under par, but tonight it was all delicious. We started with salad & corn bread. For drinks I had sangria, SB had lemonade, Marie had soda and Chris & Andrew had beer. The hot food was fried chicken, bbq ribs, baked beans, and mashed potatoes – all excellent. There’s a lot of interaction with the audience and our table was included a couple of times.
At one point one of the cast told Andrew to come up on stage, along with a few others. They did the final skit and Andrew was the brave Indian, lol! He had no idea, but he did great and Chris loved it! Afterwards they brought him a couple photos of himself onstage, which was very nice (& funny). Overall it was a great time – and very nice birthday for Chris. Little did we know it wasn’t over yet.
Outside we waited for restroom breaks to be taken then wandered towards the marina. Several people were sitting at tables on the beach waiting for the Electric Water Pageant. Many more people were lined up on the dock waiting for boats. Did we join the line? Heck no, thanks to Bill! Turns out his birthday cruise didn’t show up so he came back to give us the cruise instead!! People were asking him if he’d take them somewhere, but he said no – the boat’s reserved <g>. It was so nice to find him there and we eagerly climbed back onto the boat! We were too full for the sodas, waters & chips, but we enjoyed riding around the lake and Seven Seas Lagoon before stopping outside the Magic Kingdom. At 9:30 the music and narrative with the fireworks began (it was broadcast on the boat’s speakers) and we got to see Hallo Wishes up close! They were pretty spectacular, and there’s no way you’d get the whole view of them from anywhere inside the park! The fireworks extended along boths sides of the Magic Kingdom and were so impressive! SB thought they were great too and I know the young people realized how lucky we were to do this!
After the fireworks we headed back to the Contemporary. We’d seen most of the Electric Water Pageant earlier but we were on the back side without the music. Bill gave Chris all the balloons from the boat. The young people went to move their car and bring in their stuff and I talked with Bill until SB & I went to Bay Lake Tower. He went up to the room & I waited for the others.
I’d booked a standard view studio for Chris, so he should have been on the bottom 2 or 3 floors. Well, he ended up on the 12th floor with a direct lake view – it was beautiful!! The Electric Water Pageant was getting ready to start so the 4 of us watched it from their balcony. Afterwards Marie came down with me to get her bag and then they headed to JellyRolls while SB & I went to bed.
Today was a magical day in so many ways. I asked SB what his favorite thing was and he surprised me by saying the fireworks! I’d say the whole evening, but the fireworks cruise was a big part of it. We are so lucky to be here and to be staying somewhere like BLT rather than offsite or at a value – it’s just a totally different world! Chris wore his birthday button and got a kick out of all the birthday greetings he received – it was fun.
Tomorrow we’ll start at the Magic Kingdom with the others, and then split up later. SB & I have an early dinner at Kona Café. I know he’s interested in following some fight online tomorrow night so maybe I’ll wander back to MK after dark to soak up the atmosphere.
DAY 2 – Saturday 9/19/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – 23 today
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple)
Plan: Magic Kingdom, Kona Café, Wishes
Actual: I’d set my phone alarm for 6 and got up then. The bed here is very comfortable even with the cheap Disney sheets <g>. Comfort wise these dvc beds have come a long way since OKW! I took my shower, dried my hair and rejoined SB in bed for a while as the sun rose. Around 7:30 he got up to shower, we dressed, I had some cappuccino and after 8 we walked over to the Contemporary.
Since we’d been to Contempo Café once before we knew how it worked. A cast member came over just as we’d finished ordering (guests order via touch screen) to see if we needed help but we were ok. We ordered and adult and kids’ scrambled egg & bacon meals with a side of turkey sausage. SB got an orange juice and I drank the water that came with my kids’ meal. I was shocked by how small my portion of breakfast looked – small scoop of eggs and 2 bacon strips on a mostly empty plate! His came with potatoes & a biscuit and filled the larger plate. He didn’t care for the turkey sausage but the rest was pretty good – at least good enough.
I’d been calling Chris and they kept saying they’d be down but they were running slow. We finally said we’d meet them downstairs in the lobby when they said they’d eat something later in the park. We waited down there at least 15-20 minutes. I asked the dvc person if she’d hold Chris’ birthday paper for him and she agreed. When I called to tell him this they were in the elevator so we waited for them. They’d gone to both Jelly Rolls and then Atlantic Dance last night, leaving there around 2am! They had fun though.
We made the very hot walk over to Magic Kingdom, with some minor grumbling from SB since he likes to avoid walking at all cost. We got there around 9:10 and I was surprised to see hardly any lines at the turnstiles or guest services. Andrew & Marie bought a 1-day ticket at guest services while Chris went to the will call booth to get his free birthday admission. In no time at all we were in the park.
Growing up Chris hated anything with a hill – even Pirates of the Caribbean. However, today he planned to ride the mountains. We headed to Splash Mountain first and heard an announcement that it was starting motion. I decided to sit this one out, as I HATE big drops. I took everyone’s passes and got fastpasses for Big Thunder for 10:05. As I was getting them the others came back saying Splash Mountain was broken.
There was no wait at Big Thunder so we did that as a walk on and got the 2nd car from the back. Everyone enjoyed this! When we got off the ride we noticed Splash Mountain had just started back up so they went to ride that before the line got long. I stood on the bridge to get a picture of them just starting out and then moved to the other area to get them after they came down the big hill. I had quite a wait, but finally I spotted them. SB & Chris were in the front row because Andrew wisely stepped into the 2nd row to avoid getting so wet, lol! It was funny listening to SB at the bottom of the hill – “OH…..OH…..OH”, lol! I went back and met them at the exit and both Chris & SB were pretty soggy (SB’s sleeve was dripping).
Next was Pirates of the Caribbean, where we walked on without any wait. Unfortunately the boat seemed to be leaning towards the right, lol! Chris said a very large person was seated there in the back row, and the tendancy is to move to the right anyway, so this boat was definitely tilted. As a result it was very jerky as the boat would hit the side rail and jerk itself back. Thankfully we didn’t sink or capsize!
After the ride Marie looked for some sunglasses but didn’t find any she liked. Our fastpass window for Big Thunder was open, and since we were in the area we decided to do that. SB didn’t understand the point in repeating a ride – that just seemed very bizarre to him & he wasn’t interested. I laughed & told him when I come without him I might ride something 3 times in a row <g>. Guess there’s a reason I take solo trips! He got some popcorn and a soda & sat in Frontierland while we went back to Big Thunder for our ride. While over there the others got another fastpass for Splash Mountain for later.
We met back up with SB and went to Haunted Mansion. There was a 5-minute wait posted but it was really less than that. Marie hadn’t been on this in almost 20 years, and we all enjoyed it. Of course in September any air conditioned ride is wonderful! Afterwards we went to get something to eat. They were starving, and Chris wanted Columbia Harbor House so we went there.
SB and Marie got the clam chowder and both enjoyed it. I got the kids’ chicken nugget meal figuring SB would help me eat it. The kids’ nuggets were in fact different than the adult chicken – they were good but not AS good as the adult version. Chris and Andrew each got the fried fish and chicken combo. It wasn’t busy yet so we had a nice cool quiet lunch!
After lunch we headed into Fantasyland and decided to ride It’s a Small World. This was the longest wait of the trip – posted as 5 minutes but more like 10. I love how they redid the outside area so it looks more like the Disneyland version in terms of the colors. When we got off the boat Fantasyland was mobbed, so we continued walking through. They were planning to go to Toontown because Chris wanted to ride the Barnstormer, lol! They also planned to do the teacups, Buzz Lightyear and Splash again. We parted ways near the entrance to Toontown and SB & I continued on to Tomorrowland.
The Tomorrowland Transit Authority (PeopleMover) was busy but there wasn’t a wait. We rode that and he enjoyed being inside Space Mountain with the lights on. There wasn’t much to see beyond the hill area because of the construction walls. I guess I’ll have to fight the crowds at the MK during Thanksgiving weekend so I can check it out!
After our spin on the TTA we decided to head out of the park. It was only noon but felt like late afternoon! We walked down Main Street and made a quick stop in the Confectionary for a chocolate medallion pop. We exited MK and took the waiting resort monorail back to the Contemporary.
Here we ran into another set of parents who left us scratching our heads. The parents (along with a stroller that’s probably prohibited) hopped on the escalator and left their young daughter behind to fend for herself. Well, she freaked at the moving stairs and screamed, frozen in place. The dad from the family in front of us quickly just picked her up and set her on a step, and held her hand until they got to the bottom. Her parents thanked him – SB thought they were incredibly stupid to leave their little girl alone like that. Back in my day we took care of our kids, lol!
We walked back to Bay Lake Tower and went up to the room to COOL OFF for a while. He found a college football game so he was happy. Turns out one of our former pitchers is now a quarterback for Boston College and he was playing. I updated the report and just when I finished SB starts with “Let’s go to Epcot – I want to go to Epcot”. I decided to call his bluff and say “ok, let’s go”, lol! Thank goodness he didn’t really want to – because I’ve had enough of hot sweaty theme parks and I’d planned to wander around the resort once the report was updated <g>.
Around 1:30 I grabbed the camera and headed out to look around. I guess I do like this resort, but I don’t like being on the inside of the C unless it’s in the very middle. I have BLT booked for mid January, so I’ll have to call member services to state my requests more clearly. I wandered around the pool area at both resorts and then went back to BLT to ask about being let upstairs to the observation deck. Evidently it really opens at 5 along with the lounge but a security cast member offered to take me up there.
She pointed out how idiot parents were sitting their kids on the ledge (as I’d read online) and they’re thinking of putting a rope up to prevent people from getting close to the wall. I hope that doesn’t happen, as it punishes the decent people for the actions of the morons but evidently it’s a workload issue having to stop all these idiots. Personally, I’d rather see them ban kids completely – families can book a room with a MK view or use the 4th floor observation deck next door. Or, they could put tall ugly railings up – so a camera lens would fit through but not a child.
From the observation deck there were great views of MK (past the ugly parking lot), Grand Floridian & even the Poly, Wilderness Lodge and Swan. The security cast member said her favorite rooms are the lake view, as the MK view is only good during the fireworks – and I agreed. The lounge was not open but I could see it through the glass and it’s pretty small but very attractive. Unfortunately there’s not time to visit there this trip, but hopefully in January.
I thanked the security cast member and went downstairs to the studio to cool off again. SB was sleeping through his football game, but I’m sure if I changed the channel he’d wake up instantly <g>. I chose to hang out online to pass my time. It was too hot for the balcony, so I stayed in the studio until the chilly air conditioning had thoroughly chilled me. Then I sat on the balcony to warm up (SB was under the covers asleep) and fell asleep out there.
Before 4 I woke up & came back inside and then around 4:20 we left for dinner. We walked over to the Contemporary and took the monorail 2 stops over to the Polynesian. SB said he wasn’t hungry at all, even though he hadn’t eaten since chowder at 11. At the Contemporary we boarded the waiting monorail and even found seats together. The monorails were pretty packed, with lots of people standing. We got off at the Poly and checked in at Kona Café even though it was just past 4:30. They gave us a beeper and we headed for the Tambu Lounge.
I should mention SB thought this was absolutely great – hopping on the monorail (or “tram” as he called it) and then walking a few steps to the restaurant, lol! At the Tambu Lounge our friend Clinta was working. It was pretty busy and he didn’t see us at first so another bartender took our order. He got a bahama mama and I went with a glass of wine the bartender suggested (some sauvignon blanc). We both liked our drinks.
At one point Clinta turned our way and did a double take when he saw us. He came over and we chatted whenever he wasn’t busy. He’s married to my friend Nancy, and SB had met him on an earlier trip so they “knew” each other. We sat at the bar until our beeper went off at 5pm. We thought we’d be back after dinner, but ended up not staying.
Kona Café was terrific, and I like the décor. I remember it as the old Coral Isle Café, but that was decades ago. The seater took us by the bakery kitchen where they had most desserts displayed and then seated us. Our server did a great job and the food was outstanding. SB ordered another bahama mama but barely drank half of it.
He started with the chicken noodle soup which was good but a surprisingly small portion for over $6 <g>. For his meal he had the shrimp & scallops and I had the coconut crusted chicken. His was a pretty small portion for him – small scoop of rice, 3 fried shrimp and 3 scallops. He said they were excellent but he would have eaten a lot more of them! It was ironic but while his dinner was small mine was massive! The chicken breast was huge and there was a mountain of salad. I immediately cut off at least half of the chicken and added it to his plate, along with a mound of salad. It was all excellent – we both loved it. We also really liked the fresh warm bread with the honey macadamia butter!
He was stuffed, and I was full too but I wasn’t leaving without trying the Kona Cone. Thank goodness this is smaller than it used to be, because it was plenty! They take a waffle cone and add vanilla & chocolate ice cream and a dark chocolate Mickey. There are 4 small cups of assorted toppings and a mound of cotton candy. It was very good, but how can a person eat all that alone??? We managed to eat most of it – no way was I leaving much, lol! But, now that I’ve had one I’m satisfied – I don’t need to do it again.
Our dinner was very reasonable by Disney standards - $62 including the 1 bahama mama. It was good food, good service and we were full. We walked outside and boarded the waiting monorail – our luck with transportation was outstanding this trip. We got off at the Contemporary, walked back to Bay Lake Tower and hung out in the room for a bit. I left him there and walked back over to the Magic Kingdom for a little while.
I rode the train from Main Street around to Toontown and walked over to Tomorrowland. I rode the TTA one more time and then meandered towards Main Street. In the jewelry store I looked for a tie tack or tie clip but didn’t see either. The street was lined with people waiting for Spectromagic at 8 so I headed out of the park and walked back to BLT.
While we were in the studio I heard SB exclaim “what the hell is that” and saw a green laser light dancing around next to him at the head of the bed. I knew it was Chris and sure enough, he was on his balcony and had seen SB when I turned a light on, lol!
At 8:30 I went up to the observation deck and was less than thrilled to see young kids running and screaming like wild banshees. How about a little serenity to enjoy the beautiful night??? There were also some kids in pajamas – sorry, but that’s to completely tacky & wrong. The lounge was very busy – almost every table was taken, and I didn’t expect that based on recent internet reports. Some people got drinks and took them outside to the railing, too.
Right before 9 more people arrived, but there was room for everyone. The soundtrack is piped in and it’s just like watching from the park but without the mob <g>. The fireworks are off to the side, too – over Space Mountain. If I can’t do a fireworks cruise I’ll settle for the observation deck, lol!
As soon as Wishes ended I headed for the door hoping to beat the crowd and went back to the studio. SB is not getting out of that bed – in a way I don’t blame him because it’s so comfortable. I’m avoiding getting under the covers out of fear I won’t get back up for the Electric Water Pageant.
Around 9:30 I made some cappuccino and took it out to the balcony. I guess this room isn’t so bad. If I request something on the outside I might not get the Electric Water Pageant at all. I’m torn between the unobstructed lake view, the lake/Contemporary view or this one in the middle of the C.
At 10 the water pageant started and SB came out to see some of it. He’s watching yet another football game – they’re all the same to me. When he’s away I sure don’t miss all the sports on tv! After the pageant left I showed him the photos and then finished up the report and headed to bed.
Today was another nice day. SB commented he’s really enjoying this trip. I wonder if it’s the football on tv, lol! It’s been a nice change to stay in this location, which is something that wouldn’t work for me for a longer trip. But, for the weekend it’s fine. We enjoyed the MK with Chris & his friends this morning, other than the heat. Dinner at Kona was wonderful and I’m glad we gave it a try. I can see us eating there when we’re staying at BLT. I’m glad I got to try the observation deck and watching the electric water pageant from my room. In January I’ll be sure to spend time in the lounge having a drink and light dinner!
Tomorrow will be a short day. Instead of T-Rex for lunch we’ll do our usual early Earl of Sandwich and head home. SB mentioned “we” have a lot of unpacking to do. Hmmm, I have a small suitcase and a garment bag, so he must think I’m unpacking his stuff or something. I’ll need to do laundry and pack for next weekend’s trip <g>.
DAY 3 – Sunday 9/20/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Plan: Downtown Disney, Drive home
Actual: Well, after napping much of the afternoon and most of the evening (while I was awake), when I went to turn off the tv at 11:30 SB wasn’t happy. An argument ensued, and poof went the magic of the past 2 days. I really like my solo trips – no crap! If his name is missing from future trips that means we didn’t resolve it satisfactorily.
I got up around 7:15 but really hadn’t slept well. I showered, dressed & had some cappuccino as I sat at the table watching the boats sailing out on the lake. It’s humid and awful outside on the balcony, but it’s so pretty. We didn’t have that much to pack up and most of that was done yesterday.
Housekeeping came and knocked on the door around 8:45 so I told her we weren’t gone yet. I’d taken the bill inside but didn’t put out the privacy sign, so it’s understandable her checking to see if she could do the room. Shortly before 9 I asked SB when he was getting up. He got up and went into the shower without speaking – should be a wonderful day.
We both played the silent game for quite a while. I was impressed how far he took it – when needing directions he would silently point in a direction & raise an eyebrow. That left me with nodding slightly, lol.
We somehow got to Downtown Disney and parked at the Marketplace after getting gas across from Pleasure Island. It wasn’t busy yet, so parking was a breeze. Earl of Sandwich opens at 8:30 for breakfast, but they serve everything. The breakfast sandwiches end at 11am. I ordered the caprese and he got the full montague. The food was ready by the time we paid for it, thanks to an incredibly slow moving line at the register. SB blamed the worker but I think it was the idiot guests. He did just fine (very quick) on us and the couple in front of us.
We ate our sandwiches in silence and returned to the car. We did try to settle it in the car, so the day wasn’t a total waste. We got home in about 3 hours, unpacked the car, did laundry and settled in for the rest of the day.
The photos from this trip are on snapfish at
http://www1.snapfish.com/share/p=444201253476050594/l=2823749016/g=5159584/cobrandOid=1000143/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB
The next trip starts in 5 days! It’s a very short 1-night stay to see our friends Larry from Scotland, his wife Robin and friends Tom & Leanne. We’ll also get to sample the Food & Wine Festival on the arrival day even though it’ll be mobbed. Then we’re back the following weekend for a real trip.
Until next time – thanks for reading.
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – turning 23
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple),
Dates: September 18 - 20, 2009
Travel Method: Personal car
Resort: Disney’s Bay Lake Tower
Experience: Very experienced – first stay at this resort
INTRODUCTION:
My last trip to WDW ended Sept 8th so this trip came up in no time at all – especially considering I was only home 5 nights before leaving for Gainesville. At the end of my work week there we head back to WDW. This time we’re staying at Bay Lake Tower (BLT) and celebrating Chris’ 23rd birthday. This “free” birthday promotion is costing me a small fortune but that’s what money & dvc points are for!
Originally I had a free dining reservation at Pop Century and a lake view studio at BLT. I figured Chris could sleep at Pop, we’d stay at BLT and we’d all enjoy the meal credits. But, Chris mentioned bringing friends and those rinky dink value resort rooms would be awful if 4 adults were sharing one. In addition we had made plans to celebrate his birthday (a night early) at Hoop Dee Doo Revue so I called to book him a studio at BLT since it made more sense to be there. I then canceled the free dining reservation – getting “free” meals isn’t worth staying in a value when there’s BLT!
When I called for Chris I was surprised to find standard view available, so I booked that figuring he & his friends would never be in the room anyway. The plans are for Chris & 3 of his friends to drive up from Ft Myers while SB & I will be coming from Gainesville. Friday night we have the 7:15 Hoop Dee Doo Revue – it includes bud light draft at no charge, so Chris’ friends can drink without paying anything. SB loves the food & corny show, and I enjoy it also. I’ll be sure to point out Chris when they ask about birthdays during the show! Saturday the young people are going to Magic Kingdom, and that’s where we may head as well – mainly for the convenience. That night SB & I have an early dinner reservation at Kona Café – first time for him and it’s been many years since my last visit. I do want to see the Electric Water Pageant out on the lake and would like to get up to the lounge for Wishes. It’s a short trip, so there’s not much time to fit a lot in! But, we’ll be back the following weekend and then the weekend after that for a longer trip.
Saturday evening Chris & his friends plan to watch some of the Gator game at ESPN and then head to City Walk at Universal. He invited us to come along, but neither of us were interested – too old, and it’s not Disney <g>. Sunday I think Chris & his friends may pool hop (perk of being dvc) somewhere before going home, while SB & I will probably hit Downtown Disney and maybe have lunch at T-Rex. That’s if he doesn’t just want breakfast at Puck’s again.
I’m not looking forward to the weather – it’s still brutally hot down here. With free dining going on the restaurants will be madhouses, but we’ll survive. It’ll be fun to try the new resort, although I did come check it out 2 weekends ago. It’s not somewhere I’ll stay often, but it’s worth doing once in a while for a relatively short trip. It’s just not convenient to anywhere but Magic Kingdom.
As recently as last weekend we weren’t sure when SB would be getting back from baseball. His team made it into the playoffs, and had they gone all the way it could have not ended until a day or so after this trip ends! As it turned out they lost during the 1st round and he flew back to FL and drove to join me in lovely Gainesville this past Monday. So, he hasn’t been home yet <g>.
The plans so far are:
Friday 9/18: Work Gainesville, c/in BLT, Hoop Dee Doo Revue
Saturday 9/19: Magic Kingdom, Kona Café, Wishes
Sunday 9/20: Downtown Disney, Drive home
DAY 1 – Friday 9/18/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – turning 23
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple)
Plan: Work Gainesville, c/in BLT, Hoop Dee Doo Revue
Actual: I was out the door just before 11 and drove back to Homewood to pick up SB. I thought he’d be waiting in the lobby, but there was no sign of him. This morning I’d suggested we load the car before I went to work, but he insisted he could handle it. Well, after 10 minutes he calls saying he needs my help (grrrr). I met him at the elevator and took the luggage cart from him. We loaded up the car as my work cell phone was ringing. I couldn’t deal with it just then, though. We got in the car and the GPS was blaring away when my personal cell rang – only 1 person has both numbers so I answered to see what Michael needed & took care of an issue.
We arrived on Disney property around 1:30 and drove to the Contemporary to check in. I’d done online check in so that went pretty quickly, but I had to go to the concierge to get the tickets for Hoop Dee Doo Revue tonight. The cast member said “oooh you got the good seats”, meaning category 1. Category 1 is a whole $5 more than category 2, and to me it’s totally worth it. I’d skip Hoop before I’d buy a category 2 or 3 seat.
We parked over at Bay Lake Tower and brought our stuff up to the room. We’re on the 8th floor, north wing but on the inside. The view directly outside is the south wing, but I turn to the left I see the pool and lake beyond that. This is NOT an impressive view at all – assuming I stay here again I’ll be requesting an outside room vs this inside studio. The studio itself is in great condition and looks very nice. The balcony is very large compared to the other resorts. The bathroom has a sliding door, but that’s hardly the end of the world. The combo kitchenette and bath sink doesn’t bother either one of us – again, life’s too short. There’s plenty of storage space in here – and the studio does feel smaller than most of the other studios.
I unpacked somewhat and we decided (his idea) to head down to the pool bar. However, when I mentioned an air conditioned bar he thought that was a better idea. We wandered around BLT (missed the bridge at first) and eventually found our way over to the Contemporary. We were headed to the Outer Rim (or what’s left of it) but it wasn’t open. We tried CA Grill but as expected that wasn’t open either. Finally we went out to the pool bar at the Contemporary, and although they had some air conditioning it was still pretty warm.
We were the only 2 sitting in there, although others came in from the pool to order drinks. The bartender wasn’t your typical cast member. He was an older guy with horrible teeth and a strange personality. SB had a couple Michelob ultras (at $6.50 each) and I had a couple banana cabanas (at $7.25 each). He also had a hot dog and later had a turkey sandwich. All together it was over $50 – only at Disney!
We left there around 3 or so and decided to visit Animal Kingdom. The bus came fairly quickly and stopped at the Polynesian next. We ended up being the only people on the bus after that so the driver asked if we wanted him to stop at Blizzard Beach. Of course we said no, and were thankful to not have to stop there.
At Animal Kingdom we had no wait to get in – I’d wisely not taken a bag with me, but there weren’t any real lines at the bag check. It was hotter than hell, with very high humidity – just miserable. We walked back to Harambe and SB stopped to get a bottle of water but the line was moving too slowly for his patience so we continued on. At the safari we walked right on even though only 1 boarding area was still open. It was warmer than I’d like butit was a good safari. Later in the day certain animals are more active it seems.
After the safari we walked to Camp Minnie Mickey and had about 10 minutes to wait for the doors to open for the 4:30 Festival of the Lion King. The show was perhaps half full, and we were seated right near the front at the end of a row next to where the cast enter the theater. SB loves this show and I enjoy it too – I just don’t see it unless I’m with him since that’s often enough. It’s very impressive and not what you expect from a theme park show!
When the show ended it was after 5 and the park was closed so we headed out to our waiting Contemporary bus! Unfortunately this time we stopped at Blizzard Beach, but since we had no wait it wasn’t a big deal. We had a short time to relax in the room & enjoy the frigid temperature. SB thought it was cold, but I was so hot earlier I loved the cold air in here!
Just before 6 I called Chris and found they were still on the road! We agreed to leave at 6:30 to get the boat, and they ended up arriving around 6:20. Marie came up to our room (I went down to get her) so she could change her clothes while Chris & Andrew went to check in. When they finished that they went to the marina and waited for the rest of us.
SB, Marie & I walked over to the marina at the Contemporary and I didn’t recognize Chris at all. I saw 2 guys but had no idea they were Chris & Andrew – Marie recognized them. Chris was wearing a baseball cap, which he seldom does. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a familiar face but walked by until I realized it was Bill/Major Woody! Since retiring he works as a Wishes cruise captain, and he knew we’d be here. He offered us a private ride to Fort Wilderness, which we gladly accepted. It was wonderful and such nice special treatment!
Bill had a birthday Wishes cruise to do, but the people weren’t due to arrive until later. We checked in for Hoop Dee Doo Revue and it was then that I learned Chris didn’t have a 3rd friend. So, I paid for 6 people but we were only 5. Had I known earlier, I could have invited a local friend. Chris joked to find someone here, and SB was horrified at the idea of having to sit with a stranger <g>. So, we kept it the 5 of us and they just removed 1 of our chairs. We had about 15 minutes to kill so we went to Crockett’s Tavern where SB bought a round of drinks. I passed, since I’d have sangria inside Pioneer Hall. We hung around outside until the doors opened and the line started moving.
Our table wasn’t exactly ideal – it was right up against the stage but in the far corner. As a result, our view was somewhat sideways and depending on where the actors were standing my view of the actor speaking/singing was blocked by another. But, I’ve been here many times – it was the first time for Andrew & Marie. When the cast came in I was pleased to see Jennifer Broussard as the Claire character. Chris recognized her from her old Comedy Warehouse days. The Six Bits guy was the same as last time but I think the others were different. They did a great job – this show is so corny but it’s so much fun!
The food was excellent tonight – everything was great. In the past sometimes something would be under par, but tonight it was all delicious. We started with salad & corn bread. For drinks I had sangria, SB had lemonade, Marie had soda and Chris & Andrew had beer. The hot food was fried chicken, bbq ribs, baked beans, and mashed potatoes – all excellent. There’s a lot of interaction with the audience and our table was included a couple of times.
At one point one of the cast told Andrew to come up on stage, along with a few others. They did the final skit and Andrew was the brave Indian, lol! He had no idea, but he did great and Chris loved it! Afterwards they brought him a couple photos of himself onstage, which was very nice (& funny). Overall it was a great time – and very nice birthday for Chris. Little did we know it wasn’t over yet.
Outside we waited for restroom breaks to be taken then wandered towards the marina. Several people were sitting at tables on the beach waiting for the Electric Water Pageant. Many more people were lined up on the dock waiting for boats. Did we join the line? Heck no, thanks to Bill! Turns out his birthday cruise didn’t show up so he came back to give us the cruise instead!! People were asking him if he’d take them somewhere, but he said no – the boat’s reserved <g>. It was so nice to find him there and we eagerly climbed back onto the boat! We were too full for the sodas, waters & chips, but we enjoyed riding around the lake and Seven Seas Lagoon before stopping outside the Magic Kingdom. At 9:30 the music and narrative with the fireworks began (it was broadcast on the boat’s speakers) and we got to see Hallo Wishes up close! They were pretty spectacular, and there’s no way you’d get the whole view of them from anywhere inside the park! The fireworks extended along boths sides of the Magic Kingdom and were so impressive! SB thought they were great too and I know the young people realized how lucky we were to do this!
After the fireworks we headed back to the Contemporary. We’d seen most of the Electric Water Pageant earlier but we were on the back side without the music. Bill gave Chris all the balloons from the boat. The young people went to move their car and bring in their stuff and I talked with Bill until SB & I went to Bay Lake Tower. He went up to the room & I waited for the others.
I’d booked a standard view studio for Chris, so he should have been on the bottom 2 or 3 floors. Well, he ended up on the 12th floor with a direct lake view – it was beautiful!! The Electric Water Pageant was getting ready to start so the 4 of us watched it from their balcony. Afterwards Marie came down with me to get her bag and then they headed to JellyRolls while SB & I went to bed.
Today was a magical day in so many ways. I asked SB what his favorite thing was and he surprised me by saying the fireworks! I’d say the whole evening, but the fireworks cruise was a big part of it. We are so lucky to be here and to be staying somewhere like BLT rather than offsite or at a value – it’s just a totally different world! Chris wore his birthday button and got a kick out of all the birthday greetings he received – it was fun.
Tomorrow we’ll start at the Magic Kingdom with the others, and then split up later. SB & I have an early dinner at Kona Café. I know he’s interested in following some fight online tomorrow night so maybe I’ll wander back to MK after dark to soak up the atmosphere.
DAY 2 – Saturday 9/19/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Chris, son – 23 today
Chris’ friends – Andrew & Marie (married couple)
Plan: Magic Kingdom, Kona Café, Wishes
Actual: I’d set my phone alarm for 6 and got up then. The bed here is very comfortable even with the cheap Disney sheets <g>. Comfort wise these dvc beds have come a long way since OKW! I took my shower, dried my hair and rejoined SB in bed for a while as the sun rose. Around 7:30 he got up to shower, we dressed, I had some cappuccino and after 8 we walked over to the Contemporary.
Since we’d been to Contempo Café once before we knew how it worked. A cast member came over just as we’d finished ordering (guests order via touch screen) to see if we needed help but we were ok. We ordered and adult and kids’ scrambled egg & bacon meals with a side of turkey sausage. SB got an orange juice and I drank the water that came with my kids’ meal. I was shocked by how small my portion of breakfast looked – small scoop of eggs and 2 bacon strips on a mostly empty plate! His came with potatoes & a biscuit and filled the larger plate. He didn’t care for the turkey sausage but the rest was pretty good – at least good enough.
I’d been calling Chris and they kept saying they’d be down but they were running slow. We finally said we’d meet them downstairs in the lobby when they said they’d eat something later in the park. We waited down there at least 15-20 minutes. I asked the dvc person if she’d hold Chris’ birthday paper for him and she agreed. When I called to tell him this they were in the elevator so we waited for them. They’d gone to both Jelly Rolls and then Atlantic Dance last night, leaving there around 2am! They had fun though.
We made the very hot walk over to Magic Kingdom, with some minor grumbling from SB since he likes to avoid walking at all cost. We got there around 9:10 and I was surprised to see hardly any lines at the turnstiles or guest services. Andrew & Marie bought a 1-day ticket at guest services while Chris went to the will call booth to get his free birthday admission. In no time at all we were in the park.
Growing up Chris hated anything with a hill – even Pirates of the Caribbean. However, today he planned to ride the mountains. We headed to Splash Mountain first and heard an announcement that it was starting motion. I decided to sit this one out, as I HATE big drops. I took everyone’s passes and got fastpasses for Big Thunder for 10:05. As I was getting them the others came back saying Splash Mountain was broken.
There was no wait at Big Thunder so we did that as a walk on and got the 2nd car from the back. Everyone enjoyed this! When we got off the ride we noticed Splash Mountain had just started back up so they went to ride that before the line got long. I stood on the bridge to get a picture of them just starting out and then moved to the other area to get them after they came down the big hill. I had quite a wait, but finally I spotted them. SB & Chris were in the front row because Andrew wisely stepped into the 2nd row to avoid getting so wet, lol! It was funny listening to SB at the bottom of the hill – “OH…..OH…..OH”, lol! I went back and met them at the exit and both Chris & SB were pretty soggy (SB’s sleeve was dripping).
Next was Pirates of the Caribbean, where we walked on without any wait. Unfortunately the boat seemed to be leaning towards the right, lol! Chris said a very large person was seated there in the back row, and the tendancy is to move to the right anyway, so this boat was definitely tilted. As a result it was very jerky as the boat would hit the side rail and jerk itself back. Thankfully we didn’t sink or capsize!
After the ride Marie looked for some sunglasses but didn’t find any she liked. Our fastpass window for Big Thunder was open, and since we were in the area we decided to do that. SB didn’t understand the point in repeating a ride – that just seemed very bizarre to him & he wasn’t interested. I laughed & told him when I come without him I might ride something 3 times in a row <g>. Guess there’s a reason I take solo trips! He got some popcorn and a soda & sat in Frontierland while we went back to Big Thunder for our ride. While over there the others got another fastpass for Splash Mountain for later.
We met back up with SB and went to Haunted Mansion. There was a 5-minute wait posted but it was really less than that. Marie hadn’t been on this in almost 20 years, and we all enjoyed it. Of course in September any air conditioned ride is wonderful! Afterwards we went to get something to eat. They were starving, and Chris wanted Columbia Harbor House so we went there.
SB and Marie got the clam chowder and both enjoyed it. I got the kids’ chicken nugget meal figuring SB would help me eat it. The kids’ nuggets were in fact different than the adult chicken – they were good but not AS good as the adult version. Chris and Andrew each got the fried fish and chicken combo. It wasn’t busy yet so we had a nice cool quiet lunch!
After lunch we headed into Fantasyland and decided to ride It’s a Small World. This was the longest wait of the trip – posted as 5 minutes but more like 10. I love how they redid the outside area so it looks more like the Disneyland version in terms of the colors. When we got off the boat Fantasyland was mobbed, so we continued walking through. They were planning to go to Toontown because Chris wanted to ride the Barnstormer, lol! They also planned to do the teacups, Buzz Lightyear and Splash again. We parted ways near the entrance to Toontown and SB & I continued on to Tomorrowland.
The Tomorrowland Transit Authority (PeopleMover) was busy but there wasn’t a wait. We rode that and he enjoyed being inside Space Mountain with the lights on. There wasn’t much to see beyond the hill area because of the construction walls. I guess I’ll have to fight the crowds at the MK during Thanksgiving weekend so I can check it out!
After our spin on the TTA we decided to head out of the park. It was only noon but felt like late afternoon! We walked down Main Street and made a quick stop in the Confectionary for a chocolate medallion pop. We exited MK and took the waiting resort monorail back to the Contemporary.
Here we ran into another set of parents who left us scratching our heads. The parents (along with a stroller that’s probably prohibited) hopped on the escalator and left their young daughter behind to fend for herself. Well, she freaked at the moving stairs and screamed, frozen in place. The dad from the family in front of us quickly just picked her up and set her on a step, and held her hand until they got to the bottom. Her parents thanked him – SB thought they were incredibly stupid to leave their little girl alone like that. Back in my day we took care of our kids, lol!
We walked back to Bay Lake Tower and went up to the room to COOL OFF for a while. He found a college football game so he was happy. Turns out one of our former pitchers is now a quarterback for Boston College and he was playing. I updated the report and just when I finished SB starts with “Let’s go to Epcot – I want to go to Epcot”. I decided to call his bluff and say “ok, let’s go”, lol! Thank goodness he didn’t really want to – because I’ve had enough of hot sweaty theme parks and I’d planned to wander around the resort once the report was updated <g>.
Around 1:30 I grabbed the camera and headed out to look around. I guess I do like this resort, but I don’t like being on the inside of the C unless it’s in the very middle. I have BLT booked for mid January, so I’ll have to call member services to state my requests more clearly. I wandered around the pool area at both resorts and then went back to BLT to ask about being let upstairs to the observation deck. Evidently it really opens at 5 along with the lounge but a security cast member offered to take me up there.
She pointed out how idiot parents were sitting their kids on the ledge (as I’d read online) and they’re thinking of putting a rope up to prevent people from getting close to the wall. I hope that doesn’t happen, as it punishes the decent people for the actions of the morons but evidently it’s a workload issue having to stop all these idiots. Personally, I’d rather see them ban kids completely – families can book a room with a MK view or use the 4th floor observation deck next door. Or, they could put tall ugly railings up – so a camera lens would fit through but not a child.
From the observation deck there were great views of MK (past the ugly parking lot), Grand Floridian & even the Poly, Wilderness Lodge and Swan. The security cast member said her favorite rooms are the lake view, as the MK view is only good during the fireworks – and I agreed. The lounge was not open but I could see it through the glass and it’s pretty small but very attractive. Unfortunately there’s not time to visit there this trip, but hopefully in January.
I thanked the security cast member and went downstairs to the studio to cool off again. SB was sleeping through his football game, but I’m sure if I changed the channel he’d wake up instantly <g>. I chose to hang out online to pass my time. It was too hot for the balcony, so I stayed in the studio until the chilly air conditioning had thoroughly chilled me. Then I sat on the balcony to warm up (SB was under the covers asleep) and fell asleep out there.
Before 4 I woke up & came back inside and then around 4:20 we left for dinner. We walked over to the Contemporary and took the monorail 2 stops over to the Polynesian. SB said he wasn’t hungry at all, even though he hadn’t eaten since chowder at 11. At the Contemporary we boarded the waiting monorail and even found seats together. The monorails were pretty packed, with lots of people standing. We got off at the Poly and checked in at Kona Café even though it was just past 4:30. They gave us a beeper and we headed for the Tambu Lounge.
I should mention SB thought this was absolutely great – hopping on the monorail (or “tram” as he called it) and then walking a few steps to the restaurant, lol! At the Tambu Lounge our friend Clinta was working. It was pretty busy and he didn’t see us at first so another bartender took our order. He got a bahama mama and I went with a glass of wine the bartender suggested (some sauvignon blanc). We both liked our drinks.
At one point Clinta turned our way and did a double take when he saw us. He came over and we chatted whenever he wasn’t busy. He’s married to my friend Nancy, and SB had met him on an earlier trip so they “knew” each other. We sat at the bar until our beeper went off at 5pm. We thought we’d be back after dinner, but ended up not staying.
Kona Café was terrific, and I like the décor. I remember it as the old Coral Isle Café, but that was decades ago. The seater took us by the bakery kitchen where they had most desserts displayed and then seated us. Our server did a great job and the food was outstanding. SB ordered another bahama mama but barely drank half of it.
He started with the chicken noodle soup which was good but a surprisingly small portion for over $6 <g>. For his meal he had the shrimp & scallops and I had the coconut crusted chicken. His was a pretty small portion for him – small scoop of rice, 3 fried shrimp and 3 scallops. He said they were excellent but he would have eaten a lot more of them! It was ironic but while his dinner was small mine was massive! The chicken breast was huge and there was a mountain of salad. I immediately cut off at least half of the chicken and added it to his plate, along with a mound of salad. It was all excellent – we both loved it. We also really liked the fresh warm bread with the honey macadamia butter!
He was stuffed, and I was full too but I wasn’t leaving without trying the Kona Cone. Thank goodness this is smaller than it used to be, because it was plenty! They take a waffle cone and add vanilla & chocolate ice cream and a dark chocolate Mickey. There are 4 small cups of assorted toppings and a mound of cotton candy. It was very good, but how can a person eat all that alone??? We managed to eat most of it – no way was I leaving much, lol! But, now that I’ve had one I’m satisfied – I don’t need to do it again.
Our dinner was very reasonable by Disney standards - $62 including the 1 bahama mama. It was good food, good service and we were full. We walked outside and boarded the waiting monorail – our luck with transportation was outstanding this trip. We got off at the Contemporary, walked back to Bay Lake Tower and hung out in the room for a bit. I left him there and walked back over to the Magic Kingdom for a little while.
I rode the train from Main Street around to Toontown and walked over to Tomorrowland. I rode the TTA one more time and then meandered towards Main Street. In the jewelry store I looked for a tie tack or tie clip but didn’t see either. The street was lined with people waiting for Spectromagic at 8 so I headed out of the park and walked back to BLT.
While we were in the studio I heard SB exclaim “what the hell is that” and saw a green laser light dancing around next to him at the head of the bed. I knew it was Chris and sure enough, he was on his balcony and had seen SB when I turned a light on, lol!
At 8:30 I went up to the observation deck and was less than thrilled to see young kids running and screaming like wild banshees. How about a little serenity to enjoy the beautiful night??? There were also some kids in pajamas – sorry, but that’s to completely tacky & wrong. The lounge was very busy – almost every table was taken, and I didn’t expect that based on recent internet reports. Some people got drinks and took them outside to the railing, too.
Right before 9 more people arrived, but there was room for everyone. The soundtrack is piped in and it’s just like watching from the park but without the mob <g>. The fireworks are off to the side, too – over Space Mountain. If I can’t do a fireworks cruise I’ll settle for the observation deck, lol!
As soon as Wishes ended I headed for the door hoping to beat the crowd and went back to the studio. SB is not getting out of that bed – in a way I don’t blame him because it’s so comfortable. I’m avoiding getting under the covers out of fear I won’t get back up for the Electric Water Pageant.
Around 9:30 I made some cappuccino and took it out to the balcony. I guess this room isn’t so bad. If I request something on the outside I might not get the Electric Water Pageant at all. I’m torn between the unobstructed lake view, the lake/Contemporary view or this one in the middle of the C.
At 10 the water pageant started and SB came out to see some of it. He’s watching yet another football game – they’re all the same to me. When he’s away I sure don’t miss all the sports on tv! After the pageant left I showed him the photos and then finished up the report and headed to bed.
Today was another nice day. SB commented he’s really enjoying this trip. I wonder if it’s the football on tv, lol! It’s been a nice change to stay in this location, which is something that wouldn’t work for me for a longer trip. But, for the weekend it’s fine. We enjoyed the MK with Chris & his friends this morning, other than the heat. Dinner at Kona was wonderful and I’m glad we gave it a try. I can see us eating there when we’re staying at BLT. I’m glad I got to try the observation deck and watching the electric water pageant from my room. In January I’ll be sure to spend time in the lounge having a drink and light dinner!
Tomorrow will be a short day. Instead of T-Rex for lunch we’ll do our usual early Earl of Sandwich and head home. SB mentioned “we” have a lot of unpacking to do. Hmmm, I have a small suitcase and a garment bag, so he must think I’m unpacking his stuff or something. I’ll need to do laundry and pack for next weekend’s trip <g>.
DAY 3 – Sunday 9/20/09
Who: Sue (50), DVC member
SB (52), Sexy Boyfriend
Plan: Downtown Disney, Drive home
Actual: Well, after napping much of the afternoon and most of the evening (while I was awake), when I went to turn off the tv at 11:30 SB wasn’t happy. An argument ensued, and poof went the magic of the past 2 days. I really like my solo trips – no crap! If his name is missing from future trips that means we didn’t resolve it satisfactorily.
I got up around 7:15 but really hadn’t slept well. I showered, dressed & had some cappuccino as I sat at the table watching the boats sailing out on the lake. It’s humid and awful outside on the balcony, but it’s so pretty. We didn’t have that much to pack up and most of that was done yesterday.
Housekeeping came and knocked on the door around 8:45 so I told her we weren’t gone yet. I’d taken the bill inside but didn’t put out the privacy sign, so it’s understandable her checking to see if she could do the room. Shortly before 9 I asked SB when he was getting up. He got up and went into the shower without speaking – should be a wonderful day.
We both played the silent game for quite a while. I was impressed how far he took it – when needing directions he would silently point in a direction & raise an eyebrow. That left me with nodding slightly, lol.
We somehow got to Downtown Disney and parked at the Marketplace after getting gas across from Pleasure Island. It wasn’t busy yet, so parking was a breeze. Earl of Sandwich opens at 8:30 for breakfast, but they serve everything. The breakfast sandwiches end at 11am. I ordered the caprese and he got the full montague. The food was ready by the time we paid for it, thanks to an incredibly slow moving line at the register. SB blamed the worker but I think it was the idiot guests. He did just fine (very quick) on us and the couple in front of us.
We ate our sandwiches in silence and returned to the car. We did try to settle it in the car, so the day wasn’t a total waste. We got home in about 3 hours, unpacked the car, did laundry and settled in for the rest of the day.
The photos from this trip are on snapfish at
http://www1.snapfish.com/share/p=444201253476050594/l=2823749016/g=5159584/cobrandOid=1000143/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB
The next trip starts in 5 days! It’s a very short 1-night stay to see our friends Larry from Scotland, his wife Robin and friends Tom & Leanne. We’ll also get to sample the Food & Wine Festival on the arrival day even though it’ll be mobbed. Then we’re back the following weekend for a real trip.
Until next time – thanks for reading.