Steve Russo - POFQ & BWV - October 25-30, 2008

[srusso100]

October 25-30, 2008

Port Orleans – French Quarter & Boardwalk Villas Resort

The Cast

Steve – That would be me. Handsome; dashing; heroic in every way; yadda, yadda, yadda - you know the story.
Barb – The woman that walks on the ground I worship.

Planning

I won’t give you a lot of the gruesome planning details that went into this trip. Suffice it to say that we had enough issues for a lifetime and came very close to canceling or postponing on several occasions. When we booked this trip last November, my Dad was about to be hospitalized for a surgical procedure. Little did we know that 11 months later he’d be living with us and back in the hospital after his 3rd surgery. This latest procedure kind of kicked his butt – he is 93 after all. We felt we couldn’t leave while he was hospitalized and he was showing little sign of improvement. Fortunately, about 10 days prior to leaving, things turned around and it looked like we were OK. He did so well he was discharged to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation and therapy and, again fortunately, it was the one place he actually liked.

Our 3 kids were agreeable to taking care of our dog and Pop while we were gone so… the trip was on. Another wrinkle appeared when we received and accepted an offer to sell Pop’s home. The closing will come in mid-November and we have a ton of stuff to get inventoried and moved or sold in a fairly short period of time.

To top things off, my management decided that the 3 days just prior to leaving would be a great time for me to attend a seminar. So instead of spending my last 3 days cleaning things up so I could leave with a clear conscience, I spent them in a class and worked after hours on clean up.

Any goals this trip? Not really. This is our first real vacation since January and we really need it. The last trip didn’t seem that relaxing to us. For some reason we seemed to take more of a Commando mode into the parks. We wanted this trip to be a little more relaxing.

Friday, October 24, 2008 – Departure Day minus one

Once again, I need to play the Southwest game for Boarding Passes. For those who don’t know, you can check-in and print your Boarding Passes exactly 24 hours in advance of your flight. The Boarding Pass numbers control when you board and are assigned, sequentially, when you check-in.

Our flight leaves at 8:05 AM tomorrow so, at 8:03 I’m on Southwest’s web site and have keyed in our reservation number and my first and last name. From here, it’s a click on ‘Check-In’, receive a message stating I’m too early, hit the ‘Back’ button and repeat. The entire process takes 1-2 seconds.

So it’s click-Back, click-Back, click-Back for about 2 minutes when the screen takes me to our reservation. I quickly select a box for me, then Barb and click ‘OK’. I’m greeted with ‘A’ Boarding Passes labeled 30 and 31. How the deuce did 29 people beat me? I know there used to be several Web sites that would check you in electronically but I believe they’re now gone. Ah, well.

I get home from work and begin to pack. This is usually done by now but I really just haven’t had the time. For some reason our TSA-approved luggage locks aren’t lining up with the available keys. Barb runs to Staples to buy new ones while I continue packing. She returns with new locks but they aren’t labeled ‘TSA’ so we need to exchange them. Never send a woman to do a job… never mind.

I finish loading the suitcases, having packed batteries and charger for every electronic device known to man. We decide to head out for a quick dinner. We hit Staples first and Barb exchanged the locks for the correct ones. We then head to our favorite local Italian restaurant and find that it’s packed. Not wanting to wait for a table, we head to the Sports Grill instead and decide on splitting a couple of appetizers as dinner.

We return home and I find the old TSA luggage locks that are matched to the keys. They were cleverly disguised as luggage locks – locked onto the suitcase zippers. D’oh! But we decide to use the new ones anyway. I decide to weigh the suitcases on our high-tech bathroom scale. One comes in at 37 pounds but the other (larger) one is 50.2. I’m not looking to pay that exorbitant fee for an overweight case so we switch a pair of my pants and an electric razor into the lighter case. That dropped it to 47 pounds so they must be some heavy pants. No wonder I weigh so much at the doctor’s office.

Then it’s off to bed.

Saturday, October 25, 2008 – Indy, Hydroseeding and a Taste of Africa

True to form, I’m awake before the alarm goes off. We take care of the dog, get some coffee in us and shower before heading out at about 6:00 AM. It’s a 20-minute trip to the airport where we park in the garage and walk our bags to the terminal.

We head downstairs to the Southwest counter to check in at the semi-manual kiosks. The Southwest agent that assists us just happens to know Barb. He was a Guidance Counselor at our local high school where Barb worked for a number of years. I sometimes think she ran for Mayor without my knowledge because she seems to know every man, woman and child in our town. We once attended a high school football game together. After getting in without charge (she knew the ticket taker), she would walk through the stands waving and talking to practically everyone. I guess that makes me the “First Dude”.

The ex-Guidance Counselor checks our bags and the larger one weighs in at 47.2 pounds which says my bathroom scale is pretty darned accurate (Dammit! I was secretly hoping it read 10 pounds high). We make our way through security which has really become a Royal Pain in the Butt. I need to place my watch, ring, keys, change, etc. in my carry-on, take off my shoes, take the laptop out of the bag, display my Boarding Pass, display my drivers license (out of the wallet), part my hair on the left side, stand on one leg while whistling the Battle Hymn of the Republic… you get the idea.

We spend a few minutes downing a coffee at the Coffee Beanery before heading to Gate C2. The new Southwest boarding procedure is fairly orderly – you now line up by number rather than a mad dash of numbers 1-30, 31-60, etc. We find that there’s a group with numbers 1-5 and then it skips to number 20. I’m not sure why they don’t assign 6-19… anyone? I guess that (sort of) explains why I could only get 30 and 31.

We board and snag the exit row with only 2 seats. I’m in awe, each time I fly, of the larger and larger suitcases people are carrying on board to be literally stuffed into an overhead compartment. I can’t imagine what it’s like on those airlines that now charge extra for checked luggage. I have to believe people are carrying on steamer trunks.

We were all on board so the crew announced we would leave 5-minutes early at 8:00 AM. It was a good flight and Barb and I watched the newest Indiana Jones DVD – Indiana Jones and the Temple of Metamucil. It was just OK and did make the time fly by (pun intended) but… with about 30-minutes remaining in the movie, we paused it to use the restrooms. When we got back, we got a battery low reading on the laptop so we decided to bag it there. I think I’d rather watch this movie on the big screen anyway so we’ll save it for when we get home.

We landed at about 11:00 to cloudy skies and 80 degrees. The skies cleared rapidly and it was quite warm and humid the remainder of the day. The forecasted thunderstorms never materialized.

We de-planed at 11:05 and made our way to the Magical Express counter. It was fairly crowded but there were lots of agents there so the line moved very quickly. After about a 3-minute wait to check-in, we boarded a mostly full bus. The bus left at 11:33 and, after a stop at Port Orleans – Riverside, we were checking in at French Quarter at 12:05. Does anyone know why they drive past French Quarter, stop at Riverside, then drive back to French Quarter? There must be a reason but it escapes me.

We were quickly checked in and our room was 7129 (first floor) and… it was ready!

We checked out the room (typical for a moderate) then walked around the resort a bit. We toyed with taking the boat to Downtown Disney for lunch but one pulled away as we were approaching the dock so we decided to have lunch in the Float Works food court. We split a Club Wrap, a Fruit Cup and a bottle of water and used the Disney Dining Experience (DDE) card for 20% off.

After lunch we decided to head back to the room to see if the luggage had arrived. Neither of us expected it to be there so soon (it was only 1:00) and we were really surprised to find it when we opened the door. I have to say that after 4 or 5 uses, Magical Express has provided stellar service for us.

It was hot enough that a change into shorts was in order so we did that, and some minimal unpacking, and headed to the bus stop. Our plan was to take in Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade at the Animal Kingdom - something we had never seen.

The Animal Kingdom bus was along in less than 2-minutes. At the park, I was reminded that I could use the “Guests Without Bags” path through Security if I held my camera in my hand while holding open the case (on my belt) as I walked through. That can be a real time saver.

We were a bit early for the parade so we hit It’s Tough To Be a Bug first. I always enjoy this show but, this time, I noticed there was very little odor from the stink bug. Either it’s malfunctioning or someone complained and they toned it down. Hopefully, it’s the former and they just need to re-load the stink. We also noticed that the cloud of mist that emits when they spray the bug killer into the audience was much larger and thicker than previous visits – but that might have been due to us sitting closer to the screen than usual.

We walked through Asia to Harambe and found the wait time for Kilimanjaro Safaris to be 40-minutes, exactly what we had remaining before the parade. I checked with a Cast Member (CM) to see if it was over-stated but, he thought that based on where the line ended, 40-minutes was about right. We decided to skip the Safari for today.

We did a quick check on the schedule and found that a Flights of Wonder show had just begun so we hustled over there and found seats just before the show started. This was a great show (it almost always is) with the best Guano Joe I’ve seen yet. The guy really had flair.

There’s a part in the show where they bring an audience member up on stage to sit there, camera at the ready, while they have something large and scary fly right at him or her, landing on a perch just behind the seat. Our volunteer was a woman and the show’s host kept throwing those humorous cautions up at her. She finally said, “I have 7 kids. You can’t scare me.”

We walked back to Harambe, looking for DeVine on the way, and took up a table in the DaWa bar. I got us a couple of drinks (Safari Lager) and we had an excellent view of the parade while sitting at a table, nearest the street, in the bar. I’ve probably said before that I’m not really a big parade lover but I did enjoy this one. I also noticed that 3 or 4 floats had guest families in them. I also noticed that each of the guests was wearing colored ear plugs so I would guess things might be a bit loud up on those floats.

While watching the parade, I had my Interesting Guest of the Day (IGD) sighting: a young guy, otherwise normal looking in most respects, save for his blue-green hair. I was about to comment that his head looked to be the color of a lawn after hydro seeding when Barb asked “Did someone hydro seed his head?”

After the parade passed us, we gave it 10-minutes or so, then joined the crowd as we Disney-waddled our way out of the park. We caught an Animal Kingdom Lodge bus in just a few minutes and, after a quick trip, spent some time exploring the savanna and snapping a few photos of the new Kidani Village (DVC resort).

We were a bit early for our 7:00 reservation so we grabbed a couple of seats at the Victoria Falls lounge where Barb had a Margarita and I a Manhattan. I texted daughter Stephanie to ask how Pop was doing (she was visiting him this afternoon). She responded back quickly that he was doing great and in very good spirits. I should explain here that I am an infrequent “texter”, just in case anyone thinks I have the flying thumbs of a 15-year old girl. I find it an efficient means of getting an answer to a simple question although it takes me 5 minutes to type “howz pop” on my numeric keypad, including the use of the ‘backspace’ key some 12 times. In 60 seconds, I get a three paragraph response from Steph who is much more adept than I. Plus her cell phone has a QWERTY keyboard.

Our bartender, Eric, is OK but not very attentive. He ignores my empty glass and successfully avoids eye contact while he attempts to look busy. I finally get his attention for a second Manhattan. I had two because Manhattans are like breasts; one’s not enough and three are too many. I can now hear the groaning and the comments: “Hasn’t he used that line in at least two other trip reports?” Well… yes, I have but I use it again for two reasons: 1) I like it and; B) it will play into this trip report again, a bit later.

As I order the second drink, barb indicates she’s heading to the Ladies Room, which is on the first floor, and she will check us in at Jiko. She returns a few minutes later with a pager and… about 5 minutes later, we’re being seated.

Our server was Darlene and she was excellent. She was informative, made recommendations and had a great sense of humor. We chose one of her appetizer recommendations, the Barbecue Chicken Flatbread, to share. Seriously, I don’t think I’ve seen an appetizer at Disney World that wasn’t more suitable for two people. The flatbread had barbecued chicken, grilled onion, apple, African barbecue sauce, and four cheeses. It was excellent.

Barb had the Spiced Crusted Pork Tenderloin (with Roasted Mushrooms, Gold Potatoes, and Sweet Onion Jus). She really liked it and the one slice I was able to steal from her plate was very good. I had the Kenyan Coffee BBQ-Braised Beef Short Rib with Crushed Potatoes and Onion-Garlic Sauce. Excellent. The meat fell easily from the bone and it was very tasty.

Barb had a glass of Riesling although the brand isn’t in my notes. I had a glass of Graham Becker Shiraz. Both wines got a thumbs up. We again used the DDE card and the bill, with tip, came to $98.

This was our first time at Jiko and we liked it a lot although Barb was less enthusiastic than I.

We were beginning to experience that first day meltdown – the one that comes from a 4:00 AM wakeup and several hours of traveling. We decided to take our chances with Disney Transportation back to PO-FQ, rather than a taxi. The first bus we saw was heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS) so we hopped aboard.

On arrival at DHS, Barb decided she needed a restroom break so we went in through Security and she used the Ladies Room just outside the turnstiles. Back to the bus stops where we soon caught a bus to POFQ – which once again drove past French Quarter to Riverside, made 3 steps then went back to French Quarter. Anyway, the entire trip, from Animal Kingdom Lodge to French Quarter, with stops at Hollywood Studios and Riverside, and including a bathroom break, took all of 45 minutes. Not bad.

Back at our room, we learned the World Series was delayed by rain so I downloaded some photos to the laptop, watched a little news and called it an early night at around 10:30.

By the way, there was a rather disturbing item on the local news. Apparently, a gunman hijacked a Magical Express bus and driver and demanded to be taken to Downtown Disney. The driver complied and the gunman got off the bus and vanished. He (the gunman) reportedly had some beef with Disney (still undisclosed) and vanished into the Downtown Disney area. The authorities were searching but, thus far, nothing.

Things I Think I Think:
I think it’s worth the effort to get an early Boarding Pass on Southwest, just to get the exit row. I think Magical Express is a fine service that hasn’t yet disappointed me. I think French Quarter is a very nice resort. I think this is the first time I’ve been in Animal Kingdom past the lunch hour. I think Jiko’s is very good and I would visit again. I think I’m either very lucky or others have unreasonable expectations from Disney’s transportation – we just never seem to have a real problem with buses, boats and monorails. I think it’s been a long day and I’m tired.

Sunday, October 26, 2008 – Early Wake-ups, Runaway ECVs and a Group I Never Heard Of
We woke up this morning to the alarm and there are two things wrong with that: 1) We didn’t set the alarm, and; 2) It went off at midnight. There’s nothing worse than being roused from sleep when you’ve only been asleep for a couple of hours or less. I’m guessing this was probably a mistake of the previous guest or, more likely, Mousekeeping setting the alarm inadvertently. I suppose though, it could have been a warped practical joke by the previous guest and that does give me an idea...

Sleep finally came again and we awoke, on our own this time, around 6:00. The forecast today was for sunny and low 80s and it lived up to that prediction. This is now the second time we’ve stayed at French Quarter and there’s one thing that’s very consistent – the coffee sucks. I don’t mean it’s bad or tastes funny – it truly is hideous. It may be the tap water or it may be the French Roast they supply gratis but it’s very, very bad. I’ve made coffee at other resorts and, while I wouldn’t call it great, it was OK. And to give you an idea of how demented I am, I had a second cup.

We showered and re-packed our bags for the move to the Boardwalk Villas. At 7:00 we wandered outside and I asked Valet to call us a taxi. The taxi, a van, showed a few minutes later and we had a pretty scary ride. Our driver was racing around ramps to cut off buses and taking turns on 2 wheels – fun. I just pretend looking out the window is like watching a movie – it’s not real and I’m in no real danger.

We make the trip to the Boardwalk in about 30 seconds and it costs me $10 including the tip (I think the meter read $7.70 but I was too shook up to read it accurately). I check us in with CM Michael. He asked if I have any requests so I said that an upgrade to a Grand Villa would be nice. He mashes a few keys and announces “Done!” but I’m pretty sure he was kidding. When my request for a room that was ready now couldn’t be satisfied, I simply requested something on the second floor so we could avoid the elevators. That’s all I could think of. He gave us our keys and a number to call to determine if the room is ready.

We stored our bags with Bell Services and headed out to the Boardwalk. I resisted the urge to call to see if the room was ready and, instead, suggested breakfast. We walked over to the Yacht Club and were seated quickly at the Captain’s Grille. We both had the Eggs Your Way breakfast and coffee (good coffee here and they leave the pot on your table which is a nice touch, thank you) and once again used the DDE card for a 20% discount.

After breakfast, we walked counter-clockwise around Crescent Lake, spent a few minutes looking around in Thimbles and Threads on the Boardwalk. It’s amazing to me how little DVC merchandise is available these days. I would have to believe past inventory hadn’t sold well. We continued on to Epcot. Our Annual Passes gave us no problems at the International Gateway and we joined a small crowd for rope drop. We entered at 9:00 and made our way through the UK and Canada to the Land pavilion.

I got us two Fastpasses for Soarin’ at 10:02 before we entered the Standby line together. It seems that most groups enter the Standby line after sending one of their party off for Fastpasses. It then seems that there’s a never-ending flow of the ‘Scuzemes’ making their way through the queue saying “Scuze me” over and over until they rejoin their group. We typically have our group wait and we all enter the queue together but I’m beginning to think that “When in Rome…” but, to be honest, I would not feel right excusing myself past dozens of people to rejoin my group. It just goes against my principles.

Barb and I got the top row and enjoyed Soarin’ as we always do. I did notice more than a few spots on the screen during the ride. I’m guessing this is digital projection so it wouldn’t be spots on the film. At first I thought it was on the screen but they would disappear. I then thought maybe it was dust on the projector but, again, the spots might be there for one or more scenes, then disappear altogether. Someone with a better understanding of the ride technology might be better equipped to explain this.

After Soarin’ we decided to try Spaceship Earth. When we rode this in January, the photos they take never seemed to work for us. The end of the ride that featured the video of our future only had the cartoon characters. Same thing here. Maybe it’s us or the face recognition technology can’t recognize someone that already looks like a cartoon character.

One of the constants of riding Spaceship Earth is that, when we get to the scene of the destruction of Rome, with that burning odor, Barb always comments that she hates that smell. Every time. I waited for it but it never came. Later, she asked me if they removed that part of the ride. She missed it completely.

In the post show, we managed to snare back-to-back seats for a racing game. You had to drive somewhere quickly while overcoming obstacles thrown your way by a villain. I don’t recall the name of the game but I do know I beat Barb soundly. You needed to complete the adventure in less than 5 minutes. I was done in 3:53 and Barb went into overtime. She’s buying lunch.

From there we walked to Test Track but there was a 45-minute Standby line so we got a couple of Fastpasses for later and rode Mission: Space (green side) with a 5-minute wait. This was a pattern we saw all week: Soarin’ had a wait of 45-60 minutes, Test Track was 30-45 minutes and all others were less than 10 minutes or complete walk-ons.

We enjoyed Mission: Space. I maintain that the green side (non-spinning) is as enjoyable as orange, without the nausea or disorientation. But that’s just me.

We decided to try something in Innoventions next. With the exception of the Segway primer and the Ultimate Home Theater, I admit to being less than impressed with what’s in Innoventions these days but… I had heard or read some good things about the hurricane exhibit (Storm Struck).

The CMs there advised us a show would be starting in 10-minutes so we joined a small queue and waited. In a minute or so, a couple came in with the woman’s mother – “Mom” was driving an ECV. We were just around the bend of a 180-degree turn in the queue when they pulled in behind us. Mom looked none too adept at piloting the chair and she caught my attention immediately.

When she was asked to move up, she hit the gas on this thing – it must have been on ‘full power’ – and didn’t get the wheels around quick enough so she rammed the far wall at about 60 mph. Her attempts to back up just continued scraping the wall as she apparently had no clue what “reverse” was. Another guest intervened and manually pulled her chair away from the wall for her.

She was now asked to pull up to the door to be admitted first. She pulled up and stopped short. When she was told to maintain that position because the door opened outward toward her, that was her cue to accelerate into the wall just right of the door. I felt badly for her but this woman should not have been driving this thing. I don’t know how a person is checked out on a rented ECV but she had no clue how to operate it and was, in my opinion, an accident waiting to happen. I just hope she didn’t run over a small child or take the legs out from an elderly person. She really was a danger to others and herself.

The show was fun but not something I’d repeat. It was a 3D (with glasses) look at being in a hurricane and then the audience gets to vote on the construction aspects of the scene. Your suggestions are put into place and the hurricane strikes again so you can see first-hand if your improvements were the right ones.

When the show ended, we made sure to hustle out of there before “Mom” climbed back on the ECV from hell. We wanted to be nowhere in striking distance when she attempted to exit that theater.

It’s a football Sunday and I need to watch my Jets so we decided to head back to the Boardwalk and try for a table at the ESPN Zone. Along the way, we ran into another notable walking style although I think I may have already categorized this under another name (the Wanderer?). I called this one the Drifter – they continually drift to the right (or left) as you’re trying to pass them forcing you to apply the brakes and re-try the pass on the other side.

We checked on our room but it wasn’t yet ready so we got in line at ESPN. We did snare a table in front of a smaller TV carrying the Jets-Chiefs game. The larger TVs were carrying the Tampa Bay game due to lots more fans (locals?). We shared an order of Dingers (boneless wings) before the game started and ordered lunch later. I had the Triple Play Turkey and Brie Sandwich (Turkey, Brie, Greens, and Cranberry Mayonnaise on Multigrain Bread served with Cucumber Salad) – very good. Barb had the Home Run Hot Dog and Fries. It’s a half-pound hot dog which she’s never finished and, true to form, she at less than half of it.

In mid-game, our room was ready so Barb left, got our luggage and unpacked. The game ended with several Jets fans standing behind me as the Jets hung on for a “more difficult than it should have been” 28 – 24 win.

I joined Barb in room 2070 – a handicapped accessible room with a view of the Luna Park pool. We’ve had an accessible room here before and had little complaint but… to make extra space in the studio, the room was missing some key features. The regular villa has a separate sink and vanity, outside of the bathroom. This room had only a sink inside the bathroom. There was no closet, which meant no safe. It had a zero entry shower, but this leads to water seeping outside the shower to the bathroom floor (from past experience). It also had a hand-held showerhead that was not useful if left in its mount. No matter how much I tightened it, it pointed straight down (I didn’t learn this until the following morning). The shower stall was fairly small and included a fold-down seat. The seat was folded up but the metal hinge protruded 6-8 inches from the wall and significantly reduced the standing space one would have (and, as I later learned, could deliver a fairly strong blow to the knee if you weren’t really careful).

On the plus side, it did have a more open floor plan and a larger balcony. We also noticed that the balcony furniture (in all the rooms) had been upgraded since we were here last January. In any event, we decided that complaining before we “gave it a try” wasn’t right so… we gave it a try.

I set up the laptop and used the supplied cord for network access. I was greeted with a Boardwalk screen asking for my concurrence with a $9.95 per day charge with another comment stating that DVC Members would not be charged. I accepted the terms but was wary. I envisioned being billed and having to get it corrected at the front desk but, it worked properly and I never saw a charge.

We decided to walk over to the nearby Hess station – something we’ve been meaning to do for some time to check out their prices on beer, soda, English muffins, butter, etc. We just wanted to see if they charged less than the typically exorbitant prices at the Screen Door or the Beach Club’s Marketplace. The answer is “yes”. I purchased a 12-pack of beer for $7.49. A 6-pack had cost around $13 at the Marketplace in January. By the way, the gas was $2.659 per gallon.

A word of caution here for anyone considering this trip: the walk down the Boardwalk driveway is fine and mostly on a sidewalk. However, you then need to sprint across 4 lanes and a median to get to the Hess station’s driveway and it’s a large open expanse with no cover and buses, taxis and cars whizzing by at the speed of light. Be very careful.

We priced a number of other items and determined that the prices here were indeed much less expensive than at the resorts. Just something to file away for when we’re here with more than the two of us.

We brought the beer back to the room and put it in our refrigerator then headed back to Epcot where we rode both Soarin’ and Test Track with the Fastpasses we had picked up earlier in the day.

It was time for a little dinner so we made our way back to World Showcase and decided to walk clockwise beginning in Mexico. Barb claimed she wasn’t very hungry (after eating a quarter of her hot dog at ESPN). Me? I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t hungry. I stopped for a Quesadilla con Chorizo at the Mexico City booth. I also asked for the Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon but was told they were out (Barb was waiting until we could find a Riesling somewhere). From behind me, a voice kept repeating “Petite Syrah. Get the Petite Syrah.” It was a recommendation from another guest. The Quesadilla was OK (6 out of 10 colanders) and the Petite Syrah was very good (9 out of 10 corkscrews) and, once again, I did not do a very good job of tracking prices so let’s just say it was about a grand (it *is* Disney after all).

We continued around World Showcase and I kept suggesting some items but Barb wasn’t hungry at all. We finally got to the America Gardens Theater and we were only a few minutes away from the start of a show by Expose so… in we went. The theater wasn’t crowded so we grabbed a couple of seats on the aisle toward the back.

I decided I might have enough time to head out for some food and drink. I knew the San Francisco booth was nearby and Barb thought she could have a Merlot if I couldn’t find a Riesling so off I went. There was no line at the booth but it was a pretty good walk from our seats.

I got a Seared Beef Medallion with Cheddar Cheese Polenta and 2 Dynamite Vineyards Merlots (about a grand). I made the mental note to tell Barb it was really Dyn-o-mite Vineyards and it was owned by Jimmie Walker – just to see if she’d make the connection. It was a long walk to get here and an even longer walk back to our seats in the theater as I tried to juggle the 3 items. There was no good way to carry them so I took it slow and did my best to avoid the countless people that cut in front of you. I almost lost it all walking across the back row of the theater when there was a guy walking toward me while his head was turned talking to his family back in their seats.

I made it back without spilling a drop of anything and (naturally) then realized I could have poured both wines into one glass, then put that glass into the empty one and re-poured when I got back. D’oh! The Seared Beef was very good (8 out of 10 spatulas) and the Merlot was, well… Merlot (7 of 10 grape skins).

When I saw that Expose was appearing during our stay, I shrugged and just figured it was my luck of getting another group I never head of. It’s 3 women and they were, apparently, big in the 1980s. They had a pretty good sound and harmonized well. It wasn’t long until they announced a song from “our third album”. I know. I was shocked too. I looked at Barb and mouthed “Third album?” And then they sang “I’ll Never Get Over You Getting Over Me” and I recognized it. It’s weird how I could sing along to it but had no idea who Expose was. Have you ever watched the show with Wayne Brady where contestants attempt to finish the lyrics to popular songs? I’ve seen pieces of it and they would put up a song title and artist and I would have no clue about either. Then the song would start and I can sing along with the music and know every word. Weird.

So Expose was pretty good. At the least, they were eye candy – particularly the one in the micro-mini, although she got all girly and teared up during the “Getting Over Me” song. Probably high maintenance.

It was getting closer to Illuminations: Reflections of Earth so I was suggesting dessert and coffee. Barb still wasn’t very hungry but I knew she couldn’t resist something from the Boulangerie Patisserie. We walked back there and joined a pretty good line. Now… have you ever been in a long queue with a small child behind you? The child is naturally curious and they spend the entire time encroaching on your space so they can see ahead – to see “what’s next”. Well, I had one of these behind me in line but it wasn’t a child – it was a 40-ish woman. After a few minutes of her nudging me so she could get a look at something ahead, I almost asked her to go ahead of me. Geez, lady. Have a bit of patience. In 30 seconds you’ll have the view I have now.

It took a long time to get our “stuff” (a Napoleon for Barb, a slice of Chocolate Cake for me, and coffee) due to a young girl ahead of us that had sampled a bit too much of the vino. She was borderline hammered and being a pest – and taking forever with her order. In the meantime, the impatient woman behind me jumped across (the Boulangerie Patisserie has 2 sides with identical items) to the other side, cut in line, and was now paying for her food. Dammit!

We finally made it through and took our desserts outside where there were no, zero, zilch, nada tables available. We sat on the wall of one of the planters and ate. The chocolate cake was a solid 9 out of 10 soup spoons and the Napoleon came in at an 8 (Barb let me have her leftovers – and I couldn’t finish it). The coffee was also good.

With a few minutes to spare we walked over to the UK to use the restrooms then walked back over the bridge (I know) to Morocco where we grabbed a spot by the wall and, once again, enjoyed Illuminations. I really love this show and seeing it for the first time on any trip is special to me.

When the show ended, we walked back to the Boardwalk. That is, to me, the single biggest benefit of staying at an Epcot resort. You don’t queue for a bus, boat or monorail – just stroll back. We spent a few minutes on the Boardwalk watching a magician/juggler. I’ve probably seen 3 or 4 different ones here now and they’re all really good with humor and crowd interaction. It’s always an enjoyable show – and it’s FREE! At Disney!

When the magician finished up, we visited the Screen Door for some milk for coffee (couldn’t find any Half & Half) and once outside, watched a few minutes of Wishes which is just visible over the top of the Beach Club across the lake.

Back in the room, I spent a few minutes dealing with some email and some work stuff on-line then we had a beer out on the balcony before calling it a night.

Things I Think I Think:
I think I like French Quarter but I like the Boardwalk more. I think the Captain’s Grille has never disappointed me for breakfast or lunch – I’ll need to have dinner there sometime. I think I enjoy the Food and Wine Festival. I think Expose was OK and I have tons of useless information, such as song lyrics, taking up what otherwise could be valuable real estate in my brain. No wonder I don’t recognize my kids any longer. I think I could close every day with desserts and coffee from the Boulangerie Patisserie… and Illuminations… and a Boardwalk magician… and a beer on the balcony.

Monday, October 27, 2008 – Packing & Unpacking (Again), Network Problems and Rocket Red
Today’s forecast is sunny and warm with a high in the 70s – really a beautiful, almost perfect Disney day. The forecasters were calling for a cold front to come through on Tuesday. Sound the sirens ‘cause the highs will be in the 60s and we were warned to get our leather jackets ready. They really take cold fronts seriously in Florida.

We didn’t like the room. You could see that coming though couldn’t you? The lack of a closet, safe and outside vanity was a problem but the clincher was the shower. In my opinion, it would only be comfortable if I used the seat. With the seat folded up, every time you moved or turned, you risked banging or cutting a knee against the hinge. The showerhead was also an issue. It worked OK when you held it but the bracket wouldn’t support it or hold it in place. I probably could have called Maintenance for it but that wouldn’t have resolved the rest of the issues so…

I called for a room switch. I explained to the CM on the phone what my reasons were and asked (not “demanded”) if another room was available. The initial response was “Why didn’t you say something at check-in?” and, for a moment, I stopped being nice. I explained that we were fearful but decided to give it a try and after one night, we realized it would be less than ideal for us. She finally conferenced me in with a Room Assignor who was very nice and promised a call back in 10 minutes.

She called back in 5 and said she had another room for us but, it wouldn’t be ready until this afternoon. She suggested we store our bags with Bell Services, go to a park, and then check back at the front desk later. We were already checked in but we’d have to pick up new key cards and the new room number. It sounded like a good plan to me and I thanked her for her efforts.

We packed up again – we were getting pretty good at this and walked our bags down to the lobby (a short walk really) and stored them with Bell Services. We then went to the Belle Vue Room which offers a Continental Breakfast. We grabbed a blueberry muffin for me and a croissant for Barb, 2 coffees and sat down at one of their tables where they also provided a complimentary USA Today. It’s pretty rare that we actually see a newspaper at Disney World and we’re both obsessive about a daily newspaper at home.

As we were getting our breakfast items, there was another woman there that had grabbed breakfast for 2, then had to return everything when she learned it wasn’t free. She said she didn’t bring any money because she thought the breakfast items were complimentary. Hah! At Disney World?

After breakfast we made the walk to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This may sound strange but, I really enjoy this walk. It’s just under a mile and, in the early morning, it’s very quiet and peaceful walking on the sidewalk along the water. There’s the typical wildlife around, views of the Swolphin on one side and the Boardwalk on the other, then the view of DHS as you get nearer. Heck, it’s usually a quiet and peaceful walk at any time of the day as most people still use the boat.

We got to DHS and they were already letting people in through the turnstiles. There were a few lines and, off to the right, I noticed 3 turnstiles with their green arrows lit up and no one using them. That happens all the time. I think a lot of people are fearful of being the first one through. We zagged over to them and got in quickly. We were held at the intersection of Hollywood and Sunset for a brief Streetmosphere routine to open the park. The rope drop at was at 9:00 and we walked (some ran) back to Toy Story Midway Mania (TSM). It now seems that 60-70% of the early crowd heads this way with the rest down toward Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror. I’d wager that a year ago, only 20% of the crowd bypassed Sunset Boulevard.

Before heading in, I joined a short line at the FastPass machines and secured two for 9:50. We then joined the Standby queue and entered the building. As we walked inside, a CM was informing everyone that the ride was experiencing “technical difficulty” and was not yet up and running. They had no idea when it would be operating. We spent about 10-minutes inside, enjoying the queue and reminiscing about how many of the toys and games we actually remembered or owned as children. I certainly remember playing Candyland, Chutes and Ladders, using a ViewMaster (one of my favorite toys) and a few others. I could remember seeing those hooked monkeys (heh, heh, monkeys are always funny) but can’t remember the name of the toy.

We really wanted to ride twice (once Standby and once FastPass) to get the feel of the ride but finally gave up at around 9:20. We just didn’t see the value in wasting time in this queue, not knowing if the ride would be up in 10-minutes or 2 hours. We made our way through the crowd to an exit door.

We decided to ride Star Tours next which was a complete walk-on. I did find the Kermit the Frog robot in the queue this time and got a photo of him. Our CM was a young fellow for whom English was obviously a second language. We could decipher most of his safety spiel but not all. It was a bit humorous when he closed with “May da foce be widchoo”.

Next up was MuppetVision 3D – always fun. When we exited, it was time to check again on Toy Story Mania but we found it was still down. We walked down the street and entered One Man’s Dream. Just as we entered there was a Dream Squad CM standing with a mother and young daughter. He told us they had just won Dream FastPasses and we should congratulate them which we did. He then said that we had too. I’ve won these Dream FastPasses twice now and both times at this location.

We spent some time with the exhibits and in about 15 minutes, we joined a small crowd for the excellent film on Walt’s life. This time I noticed that the introductory comments from Julie Andrews sounded very muddy. I wondered if there was a speaker or soundtrack problem but the muddiness went away after Julie’s part. Strange.

Next we visited the Great Movie Ride. We first rode this in 1990 and until approximately 2003(?), we had only seen the cowboy side. I didn’t know the gangster side existed outside of other’s trip reports. We finally saw the gangster side and, since then, we have not seen the cowboy again.

Barb was convinced we’d get the gangster again but, based on where we were, I was pretty confident in the cowboy so I bet her lunch. We got the cowboy.

We walked back to Toy Story Mania and it was up and running! It also had an 80 minute Standby time posted. We used our earlier 9:50 FastPasses and were on the ride in about 10-minutes. I need to see a schematic of this building to fully understand why we need to climb stairs, walk over a bridge that spans the load/unload area and then walk back down some stairs. I might be wrong but those stairs look to me to be an accident in the making. There will be lots of small children in this line and I can see a few of them taking a fall at some point.

I beat Barb 128,000 to 55,000 but neither score was all that great. I liked the ride but my review will probably not be as glowing as many I’ve read or heard previously. It was fun and I’m in awe of the technology – the 3D interaction is extremely realistic. I think it’s better than Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin but I’m not sure I’d rate it higher than Universal’s Men In Black – different and enjoyable but not better.

We then stopped for lunch at the ABC Commissary and I will just say – never again. This used to be a regular stop for us – for breakfast. We tried it for lunch a couple of years ago and it was awful. I remember getting a Cuban sandwich that I didn’t finish – and if you knew me you’d know how rare that is. I had a burger and fires and Barb had the fish and chips. With soft drinks this came to $19 and it was pretty bad – although I think my cheeseburger was worse than Barb’s fish.

We left the Commissary vowing never to return and went back to Toy Story Mania. This time we used our Dream FastPasses and boarded after about a 10-minute wait. I expected to be better this time but our scores were 120,000 – 60,000. I got a little worse and Barb a little better. At this rate, she’ll beat me in 2047.

Almost time to head out but we needed a ride on Tower of Terror first. We used our Dream FastPasses here but, to be honest, they weren’t needed. It looked like the Standby wait was no more than 5 minutes. We had a great ride with lots of drops and more air time than I think I’ve ever had before. It felt like I was out of the seat more than in it.

We did a little shopping on the way out while looking for a suitable couple to transfer the remaining Dream FastPasses to. What was left, if I remember correctly, was Star Tours, Lights, Motors, Action: Extreme Stunt Show, Indiana Jones, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and…? Was that it? Anyway, Barb gave them to a young couple that had just come through the turnstiles and they knew immediately what they were and were very appreciative. In past giveaways, we seen indifference (not even a “thanks”) and disbelief (What are these, are they real, is this a scam?).

We did spend a few minutes in Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind. It’s a great place to look but I’ve never made a purchase there nor have I ever seen one being made. Kind of like the Wyland Gallery on the Boardwalk.

We saw an approaching boat as we exited so we took that rather than walk. Our rationale was taking our time because our new room probably wouldn’t be ready yet. On the boat, I watched as the woman in front of me removed several catsup stains from the sleeve of a white sweatshirt using one of those stain “sticks”. I couldn’t see a brand name but it did a great job.

We stayed on the boat for stops at the Swan/Dolphin, Yacht Club, then the Boardwalk. We went to the front desk and CM Stephanie said our room wasn’t yet ready but asked if I wanted her to try for another room. Sure. In just a minute, she was producing new key cards for room 3113. 3113? Sound unlucky to you? We figured the CM that gave me a hard time this morning probably arranged this. I fully expected the elevator to plunge on the way there.

We gave Bell Services our card and room number and they said they’d bring the bags right up. It turns out that 3113 was a fine room, a longer walk from the elevators but we didn’t mind that. Our balcony offered a view (if you can call it a view) of the front of the Boardwalk. That location did, however, provide a few positives: we could see most of the Illuminations fireworks from our balcony; and, when heading to the Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom, we could simply walk down 3 flights of stairs and out a nearby exit door and walk directly across to the bus stop. No need to walk back to the lobby first.

Our luggage arrived in just a few minutes and we unpacked for the 3rd time. Barb was a little beat and decided on a nap while I tried to get online. I was having problems finding the network and nothing I did was working so I thought it might be a bad cable. I called Disney’s Network Services and talked to a techie-type guy who tried several things and couldn’t see this node on their network so he would have to dispatch someone. I expected someone delivering a cable in 5-minutes but he said it may be a couple of hours but, we didn’t need to be there.

I did what I could do offline while Barb napped. In about 30 minutes, she woke up and 10 seconds later there was a knock on the door. I let in a guy who was wearing a cool shirt with “Disney’s Network Services" on the chest. My first thought was “How can I get one of those?”

The connection is on the wall by the small table – where the laptop is. He looked around for a few minutes then went over to the nightstand by the bed and pulled it away from the wall. He fumbled back there for a minute, mumbled something about something being unplugged and asked me to try again. Whatever he did worked but I never pulled the nightstand out to see what was back there.

We had decided on heading to the Magic Kingdom tonight so we did the stairs/front exit thing and waited about 5 minutes for a bus. There were 2 couples on the bus with us – a couple on our right and one across from us – and they were chatting. The couple across from us looked to be about 40 and had a 3 or 4 year old daughter with them. They told the other couple that she was the youngest of 6 and the oldest was out of college. They must have started young because they could have passed for 35. The guy did have that look of being one of Tony Soprano’s button men. Barb later suggested he was probably from New Jersey and in “Waste Management”. She later corrected that to “owner of a construction company”. We did run into them several more times on the buses.

At the Magic Kingdom, we called home to check in, first talking with Stephanie and then Michelle. Michelle gave us some great news that is not 100% official and I’m not supposed to share but, I can say that there’s a good chance that the number of grandchildren we have will soon double. (That should be ambiguous enough to confuse everybody, shouldn’t it?)

We walked up by the Castle and into Fantasyland and a pretty crowded Mickey’s Philharmagic. We spent a few minutes in the external queue before being allowed into the lobby. Here’s where I watched a guy in a Cincinnati Reds cap push his way through to be right at the doors. That’s when I made the usual bet with myself and, after 10 minutes, I watched as the doors opened and he grabbed his group, raced into a row and… stopped halfway across and sat down. I win again.

Even though the lobby appeared to be packed, the theater was only about 80% full. We always enjoy this show and this time, we sat in the second row – kind of close. We both commented after the show that it seems that the 3D effects are better up close. I’m not sure why that is but I recall having the same thoughts one other time. We usually try to sit toward the rear but for this show, it seems like closer is better.

We walked through Fantasyland where I successfully steered Barb away from “it’s a small world” with a promise to return later. We walked on and joined the queue at the Haunted Mansion. The Standby sign read 20-minutes but we were in the stretching room in 15. While in line, we were treated to the antics of Autumn and Mark. Two-year old Autumn escaped several times and Mom would send three-year old Mark to retrieve her – once by tackling her to the pavement. Then we had a constant stream of “Mark. Stop that.” “Mark. Don’t do that.” “Mark. Stop hitting your sister.” Mark also felt obligated to loudly crash the tops of every trash can he came in contact with.

After the Haunted Mansion, I was ready for some food but, once again, Barb said she wasn’t hungry. So… we walked on over to the Jungle Cruise, which we decided to skip after seeing it had a 45-minute Standby. Pirates of the Caribbean listed a 10-minute wait so we tried that. Most guides will tell you that, as a rule, people faced with 2 lines will choose the line on their right. My personal observation is that, while that’s probably true, it doesn’t hold at Pirates. As you enter the queue, most people seem to enter the one on the left so… we went right and it was just about a walk-on.

When we exited, things in Frontierland and Liberty Square had gotten pretty crowded waiting for SpectroMagic. We took that as our sign to get out of Dodge and headed for the exits and the bus stop.

A bus was along in just a few minutes and, after we boarded, we watched as our driver loaded two older gentlemen using ECVs. This was a newer bus so all the driver had to do was deploy the power ramp at the back door and watch as they drove the scooters on and parked them. They then walked to a seat while the driver secured the scooters with straps. The whole thing only took 3-4 minutes. I was very impressed as they each drove onto the bus through the back door, turned right down the aisle, then parallel parked them by reversing toward the windows on the left side. I was reminded of the woman in the ECV at Storm Struck. If she had to park that ECV on this bus, I’d still be there. I also wondered how they got off the bus. There didn’t seem to be enough room to turn them around and there’s no room to back up any further past the door. They must have to back them off?

On the bus, we discussed where to have dinner. We talked about either Picabu or Il Mulino but neither of us was really hungry. After looking at their menu, we settled on Big River Grill and Brewing Company. We approached the podium and were told it would be a 10-minute wait. We took our pager inside where I got us a Steamboat Pale Ale (Barb) and a Rocket Red (me). There was no room at the bar so we took a chair at the “counter/bar” that sits between the bar and the door. It’s a little shorter than the bar but does have some chairs/stools.

In a few minutes, we were joined there by two guys and a girl. They looked to be with one of the conventions that were here (nametags worn with technology-like company names). The first guy was pretty big as in about 6’ 9” and 275 pounds. He tried to settle into a seat at one end but kept pushing back to give himself more room. As he kept pushing farther, he engaged another chair… then another… and another… until he had a train of 5 or 6 chairs that eventually reached Barb and began to move her. Thankfully, he stopped then or she may have wound up in the kitchen.

In 5-minutes our pager went off so Barb went outside to the podium while I gathered up our drinks. Then she was led back inside and I followed to our table.

Our server was Lisa and she did a great job. We ordered two Chicken Caesar Salads and they were fine which is about the best praise I can offer for Chicken Caesar Salad. Unfortunately, Big River refuses to offer a discount for the Dining Experience, Annual Pass, DVC, AAA… anything. At one point, I asked for a refill on my beer. Lisa asked what it was and, when I said “Rocket Red”, she winked, gave me a thumbs up and said, “Good man.” I wasn’t sure how to take that.

Our bill here was right around $30 and it was fine for both of us, in terms of quality and quantity, which is why the Dining Plan will never be a good idea for us.

We spent some time on the Boardwalk watching another magician. This guy was pulling children from the crowd to be his assistant and he chose a couple of gems. He had a little boy, maybe 7, that was the biggest ham I’ve ever seen. He was laughing like crazy and taking full bows whenever there was applause. It was really funny.

Eventually, we headed back to the room, watched a little Monday Night Football then off to bed.

Things I Think I Think:
I think I’m tired of unpacking. I think the Boardwalk handled the room issue very well, with the exception of the first CM I spoke with. I also think I like the new room’s location. I think I like Toy Story Mania – but maybe not quite as much as I thought I would. I think I’ve had my last non-breakfast meal at the ABC Commissary. I think I love shopping at Sid Cahuenga's but will probably never buy anything there. I think I want a Disney’s Network Services shirt. I think I like Rocket Red but I’m not sure why our server did. I think we’ll never get the Dining Plan – it just doesn’t fit our style. I think I love staying at the Boardwalk.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 – Cold Fronts, Big Heads, Icicles and Little Bears

Cold front’s here and it’s 47 degrees at 6:30 AM. And it’s windy. I’m looking for my leather jacket.

We just have coffee in the room this morning. I should mention that Barb has purchased two 64-ounce bottles of Dasani just for making coffee. It’s funny but the coffee from tap water seems OK to me at the Boardwalk but hideous at Port Orleans. Barb thought it was better but not good thus, the Dasani. At Disney’s prices, I maintain it’s cheaper buying coffee from the Boardwalk Bakery but I learned a long time ago not to argue with She Who Must Be Obeyed (SWMBO).

We take the stairs and head out to the bus stop and just as we’re walking toward the bus stop, we see a Magic Kingdom bus pull away. Darn it. That means it’s probably a 20-minute wait for the next one.

In 2 minutes, another MK bus pulls up. We reach the Magic Kingdom in time for the opening ceremony. Now I took my cue this morning from the little woman who’s always right on regarding dressing for the weather. She always has a sweater or jacket when needed, etc. This morning, she assured me that shorts would be fine. And I wore a golf slicker over my shirt as something I could take off later “when it warmed up”. So we watch the opening ceremony in 47 degrees with a 30 mph “breeze”. It was downright nipply. I tell SWMBO that I think she blew this one.

We head over to the Jungle Cruise and walk through an empty queue to a waiting boat… with one other couple on it. After 2 or 3 minutes, with no one joining us, our Skipper (who’s in hat, overcoat and gloves) asks “Shall I go?”

So off we go. Five brave souls in search of humor and adventure in the jungles of several continents. I wasn’t expecting much given the small audience but our Skipper came through with a great trip. He used all the corny lines and had a few new ones for us. There was one minor issue when we got to Schweitzer Rock (not Falls). There was no falls and instead of the “back side of water” we got the front side of air.

As we disembarked (or deboated) I heard our Skipper tell someone that there were no Falls. The response was “It comes on automatically and should be on now.”

Next we walked on to the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and were 2 of 6 people on board for this ride. It was kind of eerie how few people were there. It was very close to a visit we made a few years ago, on a rainy November 1 morning, the day after Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party. I have pictures in Fantasyland with 4 people in them.

We could have stayed on Big Thunder for more rides (probably for hours) but we chose instead to get a couple of muffins and coffees from a kiosk in Frontierland. I asked what kind of muffins they had and the response was “Chocolate chip.” I said “And…?” and she said “Chocolate chip”. I said “I’ll have 2 chocolate chip muffins please.”

We took the muffins and coffees inside Pecos Bill’s. It’s strange being in there with absolutely no one else.

After this “breakfast” we headed to Tomorrowland and took a spin on Buzz. I won another lunch but only managed 89,000 points. It was a poor effort on my part but all I needed to beat Barb’s paltry 25,000.

Next up was the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club or MILF (didn’t anyone at Disney think about this before naming it?). We joined a fair crowd in this indoor queue. I figured everybody was inside trying to stay warm (did I mention we were wearing shorts?). We took our seats and then, a couple of minutes later, had to get up, slide over and sit again to make some more room. That was probably good because the guy that sat in my first seat became “That Guy”. This was our third visit to MILF and it seems to be getting a little better each time.

We hit Mickey’s Philharmagic again, sat 3rd row and re-verified the closer is better theory.

Next was “it’s a small world”. There was no way out. I had to do it. It was OK. I actually like it except it’s a week and half later and I STILL CAN’T GET THAT SONG OUT OF MY HEAD!!!

We decided to leave the Magic Kingdom at this point. On the way out, I wanted to shop for a hat. Now you should understand that I am not a “hat person”. I don’t particularly like hats and hats don’t look good on me. So why would I buy one you ask? I do wear them when I play golf… and it rains. And… if I’m going to wear a hat, it might as well be a Disney one.

The problem now is to find one that fits. You see, I have an enormous head. Yes, it’s that big. When I was younger and thinner, it completely overshadowed my body and would actually have me listing in one direction under the sheer weight of the thing. Typically, I would list in relation to the Earth’s rotation. Since I’ve gotten older, and heavier, the proportions have normalized but it’s still a big head. I could argue that it’s a contributing factor to my enormous intellect but it’s really just a big head.

Finding a hat that fits well is difficult. You know how most are marked “One size fits all”? That should be modified to “One size fits most”.

Some of you probably doubt this saying “It can’t be that big”. Let me share with you the story of my sainted mother, forced into swapping hats on baby outfits so she could buy the smaller size for my body while securing the larger hat that would fit my melon. I can only guess at how many candles she lit and novenas she said for those transgressions. And somewhere, years ago, were tiny toddlers in outfits that fit perfectly but hats 2 sizes too small that stunted their intellectual growth and made them look like Baby Huey – but I looked good.

Anyway, I did find a “Disney Golf” hat that carried a tag that said “AHead” telling me that it would ensure a fit for even the most ginormous of heads. I tried it on and… it fit. I even checked it in the mirror – trying it at several rakish angles – and I’ll be damned if I didn’t look good. Did I buy it? Of course not. Why pay $24.95 here when I can buy it at World of Disney at a 10% Annual Passholder discount? Can you see it coming?

We exited the Magic Kingdom, hatless, and rode the monorail to the Contemporary. I took a few photos of the pretty impressive new DVC resort, Bay Lake Towers (BLT – C’mon. Disney does know we use abbreviations, don’t they?)

Then we monorailed to the Transportation and Ticket Center, switched to the Epcot monorail, entered the park and went to Mousegear where we shopped for hats. Obsessed? Me? I came up empty here. There were a few “AHeads” but nothing I liked.

We walked back to World Showcase and decided on lunch at the Food and Wine booths. This time Barb was set on a Riesling. We stopped at the Vienna booth and each tried a Leth Gruner Veltliner Leth Riesling (8 out of 10 bungs). We stopped in Capetown for a Durban Spiced Chicken but they were out and it would be 10-minutes before they had more. Instead we split a Chicken Brewat Roll (7 of 10 ladles) and a Kefta (8 of 10 soup spoons) from Marrakesh, Morocco. I also snagged the Spicy Tuna Roll from Tokyo (9 of 10 hibachis). The tuna roll had 3 pieces and I did give Barb one.

From there it was off to the Rose and Crown for what has become a tradition – taking each other’s photograph with a beer. This way we can see how much we’ve grown year by year ;-)

I had a Boddington’s and Barb a Stella Artois. Now everyone repeat after me… You know you’re at Disney when you shell out $16 for 2 beers and it doesn’t ruin your day. We found a table, sipped, snapped photos and ordered a fish and chips from Harry Ramsden’s next door (they deliver). This was a first for us and I can’t tell you why. I thought it was good (7 of 10 minnows). I had seen reports that said the fish was kind of greasy but ours wasn’t greasy at all. While we ate, and sipped, I watched the World Showcase Players enacting King Arthur and the Holy Grail outside, all the while wishing I had gone out there and recreated my starring role as King Arthur. I gave a virtuoso performance and yes, the crown fit (I knew you’d ask). It’s a “One size fits all” crown.

When we finished, we visited a few shops in the UK and spent some time researching names. We couldn’t find Russo but did find Riley (Barb’s maiden name). It said something like “destined to marry greatness”. It’s amazing how accurate these things are.

We walked back to the Boardwalk and to the room. I decided it was time for a workout. What? What’s so funny? I work out. I changed into my leopard skin leotard and headed to the gym downstairs. We made arrangements to meet in 45-minutes at the pool. Wait? Didn’t you say it was 47 degrees and windy and cold? And you’re going to the pool? Actually, it’s up to 60 and we planned on using the hot tub which is by the pool. See? It all makes sense now, doesn’t it?

I hit the gym hard. It was me and some old guy who was straining so hard I thought he’d pop a blood vessel in his neck. Wait, I was in there alone. That must’ve been a mirror.

Once I was adequately pumped up, and glistening with just the right amount of sweat for proper muscle definition, I ventured out to the quiet pool. There were three people there. Two were covered with towels for warmth and sleeping on lounge chairs. The third was Barb who was walking toward the Jacuzzi.

It had warmed to a balmy 63 degrees but the breeze kept it just cool enough for comfort. Perfect for swimming so I decided to take a dip before Jacuzzi-ing. This pool is usually heated to 84 degrees. I’ve commented in the past that it was too warm. Today? Not so much. Someone forgot to pay the gas bill because there was ice floating in there. I waded in and when the water reached a certain, er… level. I sprang straight up into the air and sprinted for the hot tub.

While the hot tub was relaxing, and warm, it was easily apparent that this had not been a good idea. After 10-minutes or so, we picked up our things, knocked icicles from each other and went back upstairs.

We showered, dressed (in khakis and sweater this time, thank you) and went down the stairs and out to a waiting Magic Kingdom bus. I’ve had good “bus luck” on many of our trips and this was no exception. We were headed to Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian for dinner (and I’ve heard but haven’t confirmed that Narcoossee’s is a Native American word that means “little bear”).

The Waste Management guy and his wife were on the bus. At the MK, we walked to the monorail platform and watched as a tow vehicle was slowly dragging the Express monorail out of the station. As a result, the Resort monorail station was packed so we decided on the boat.

Back down the ramp and the boat showed in just a few minutes and sported a pilot/captain with the worst personality I’ve encountered at the World. Check that. It was more like “no personality”. “Get on board. Watch your step” was delivered in pure monotone with an attitude that said this is a job – nothing more.

The boat took us over to the Grand Floridian. We had never been to Narcoossee’s and wondered how we would find it. Not to worry, it’s the circular building nearest the boat dock. We followed one other couple in and judging by them, we were woefully underdressed. She was in a dress and heels, he wore a suit. I was in Dockers and a golf shirt. Inside, I felt much more comfortable as the prevailing dress seemed to be resort casual.

We were a few minutes early for our 6:30 reservation and, when we checked in, we indicated we would have no problem waiting at the bar. Our hostess assured us it would be no problem and we would be seated in just a few minutes. I did see a bar but it looked to be vacant of guests or bartenders. As we were seated, I then saw the 2 bartenders were chatting with the only 2 guests around the corner of the bar – hidden from the entrance.

We were shown to a table on the upper level which is toward the center of a mostly circular dining room. The lower (outer) level is nearest the windows which present a very pretty view of Seven Seas Lagoon and the Magic Kingdom. I was impressed.

Our server was Rita from Rabat, Morocco and she continued our run of great service. She was knowledgeable and made some nice recommendations for us. We started with a drink (no surprise there, eh?) and I had the usual Makers’ Mark Manhattan while Barb opted for a Riesling. I had suggested 2 or 3 to her and Rita suggested a Fess Parker. It was one of the least expensive on the Wine List and Barb loved it. I tried hard but I couldn’t work a Davy Crockett joke in there.

We decided to share an appetizer (a pattern) and chose the Crab Cakes with Green papaya and Remoulade sauce. Rita put that order in while we enjoyed our drinks and contemplated the rest of the menu. I’m not a seafood lover. I enjoy most shellfish but turn up my nose at anything I think is a little too “fishy”. Weird, I know. The crab cakes were good but a little too fishy for me. But I still ate my half.

For our entrees, Barb chose the Free range Chicken Breast with "loaded" mashed potatoes, baby spinach, and Nueske's Bacon vinaigrette. I had the Grilled Filet Mignon with potato gratin, broccolini, and choron sauce. Both were excellent. I mean tasty, melt in your mouth excellent.

I cut myself off after a single Manhattan, thereby destroying any credibility I had with the “like breasts” line. I did, however, have a glass of something red but I neglected to make a note of it (and I actually was taking notes at the table – something I never do). I remember it was a wine I’ve had before and, if memory serves, it was a Chateau St. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon – but I could be wrong.

While the dessert menu was tempting, we passed but did have their Premium Signature Blend Coffee, brewed and pressed at the table. Very good. We used the Dining Experience card here for 20%. We were very impressed with Narcoossee’s and it’s joined the California Grill and Yachtsman Steakhouse in our Top 3 Disney World restaurants. I’d be hard pressed to pick a winner among the 3.

We left and made our way to the dock but there was no sign of a boat or any other people. I honestly didn’t know if the boat service was still running so we walked back to the main building to grab the monorail. While in the main building, we bounced around a bit checking out the other restaurants. Eventually we monorailed to the Magic Kingdom and caught a bus back to the Boardwalk. We were the only 2 people on the bus, outside of the driver of course, so that was a bit odd.

We made it to the Boardwalk lobby at 8:46 and I thought we could still make Illuminations. It was still rather cold outside and Barb wanted to change into something warmer so we hit the room, she changed and we made it to the bridge by the UK in Epcot by 8:57. Yes, we were hustling.

We watched Illuminations and slowly made our way back to the Boardwalk. We checked in with (daughter) Stephanie to see how Pop was doing and she said that his therapists have said he’s doing very well and could be released to come home next week. It’s nice closing out a day with good news.

Things I Think I Think:
I think I can no longer trust Barb when it comes to dressing for the weather. Shorts were not the right choice today. I think I should have bought that hat at the MK. I think the pool and the Jacuzzi were a mistake. I think we’re having very good luck with Disney transportation this trip. I think I like Narcoossee’s – a lot. I think staying at the Boardwalk means you can see Illuminations every night.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008 – Fruit Bats, Sundaes and Double Fireworks

I was up around 6:15 making coffee and noticed they had slipped our Magical Express return reservation under the door. The bus will pick us up at 2:50 tomorrow afternoon. I really didn’t need this reminder that our vacation was ending already.

After coffee and showers, we headed downstairs and across the front of the resort to a waiting Animal Kingdom bus. We have had really good luck with buses this trip. We launched into that half-jog that would, hopefully, indicate to the bus driver that we were looking to board his bus. It worked and he waited until we got there.

I should mention that it’s another cold day today so, following Barb’s lead again, we’re both in jeans and sweatshirts today. Good move.

We reached the Animal Kingdom at around 7:55 and decided on breakfast at the Rainforest Café. We walked in and asked the girl at the podium for a table and she informed us they don’t open until 8:00. Okay… we spent 5-minutes in the gift shop, just browsing, and then returned and were seated right away.

I had the 3-egg breakfast with bacon and Barb went for the Tonga Toast. It was a “slab” of French Toast but had the bananas (and strawberries) surrounding it rather than inside. She said it was pretty good. We managed to get a discount here through DVC and used the turnstiles in the back of the gift shop to enter the park.

We walked back to Harambe and entered the queue for Kilimanjaro Safaris. It was pretty much a walk on. Our safari was good except we only saw one elephant. The “Wilson and the poachers” story line is still there although now there’s no specific mention of Big and Little Red.

We had never been to Rafiki’s Planet Watch so we boarded the train for the short, and kind of boring, trip out there. As we walked to Conservation Station, a CM was outside holding a fairly large vulture. She cautioned us not to get too close as this vulture was young (9 months) and still learning how to interact with people. I heeded that advice. I don’t mess with vultures. We watched and listened for a few minutes then left the small crowd to enter Conservation Station.

The veterinary lab immediately caught my eye. We walked over and there were 2 CMs watching through the glass. As we approached, they gave us their vantage points and explained what was going on. It was a general check-up day for 6 African Fruit Bats. It was interesting as we watched them handle two. The bats were mildly sedated and they were placed on a table where they had their vital statistics taken (pulse, blood pressure, etc.) and had blood drawn for testing. Fascinating stuff that you certainly don’t see every day.

We spent a few minutes there then wandered the other exhibits looking at all sorts of nasty snakes and insects. We did spend a few minutes listening to the sounds of the Rainforest in one of the booths. We had little interest in the petting zoo area so we walked back to the station to wait for the next train back to Harambe.

We were looking to head to Downtown Disney for some shopping and decided that the best way to transfer would be through the Animal Kingdom Lodge. We did this one other time and used the “first bus that gets here” system and wound up going to the Contemporary – a mistake. We boarded an AKL bus in just a few minutes, made the short trip and joined about 100 others at the AKL bus stops. It appeared that a lot of folks had been waiting quite a while for buses.

The first bus we saw was for Downtown Disney which made about 4 of the 100 happy – the other 96, not so much.

At Downtown Disney, we made the usual stops at the Christmas Store, Team Mickey and the World of Disney. We bought a glow-in-the-dark Mickey-eared pumpkin, Cars pajamas and a snow globe for our grandson but there was nothing else we could find. And if you’re paying attention, I could not find a hat I liked.

We walked back through Pleasure Island where I took a few photos of the destruction walls that were up. It’s really pretty sad what’s happened to the Island. I really hope Disney does something worthwhile with it and not just more shopping opportunities.

We walked back to the Marketplace and stopped into Ghirardelli’s for a sample. While we were there we decided to maintain the Russo tradition that says that each trip, at least one meal should be replaced by ice cream. Barb ordered the Gold Rush (Peanut Butter Hot Fudge Sundae - Vanilla ice cream with hot fudge and melted peanut better throughout, topped with whipped cream, roasted peanut halves, cherry and Ghirardelli Squares milk chocolate) while I had the Haight AshBerry - Very Berry Sundae (strawberry cheesecake ice cream smothered with sliced strawberries under a layer of blueberry cheesecake ice cream, blueberry topping, whipped cream, our chocolate-covered blueberries and a chocolate dipped waffle roll). You just gained 4 pounds reading that didn’t you? We grabbed a table and devoured our “lunch”.

We wanted to check out the new T-Rex restaurant so we walked over. It’s a fairly large structure with a very large dino-skeleton draped over the exterior. It has a sign telling you not to touch it – it bites. Inside, it’s a lot like the Rainforest Café with a gift shop on one side, a bar on the other and several dining rooms. There’s an animatronic life-size T-Rex as you enter. I’m guessing when he comes to life, more than a few diapers will be filled.

We took a seat at the bar and resisted their offer of menus for lunch – not once, not twice, but three times. Barb ordered a soda and I had an iced tea. We sipped, looked around and got a feel for the place. There’s aquariums, dinosaurs and a meteor shower every 20 minutes or so.

My take on T-Rex? It looks to be fun, but… Holy crap is it loud! We could barely carry on a conversation at the bar. Having a meal in there would, in my opinion, be painful. And it gets louder during the meteor showers when all the animatronics come to life. One other interesting touch… our bartender ( a female) spoke with an Australian accent. I don’t know if that was by design but it did give things a certain Jurassic Park feel.

On the way out, we spent a few minutes in the Art of Disney store, as we always do. Then it was off to the bus stops where we waited about 10 minutes for a Boardwalk bus. This was easily the longest wait of the trip.

After we boarded the bus, I noticed our Interesting Guest of the Day. A young guy with long scraggly black hair and beard, in black tee shirt, pants and boots. The pants were tucked into the boots giving him that paratrooper look and he was wearing black leather wristbands with about 2 inch metal spikes coming out of them. I thought maybe there was a Raider game nearby.

Back at the Boardwalk, we hit the Screen Door so Barb could buy some taffy to bring home with us. I checked for hats. Nothing.

Back at the room, we waited for 5:40 so I could check us in with Southwest. I did and we received A25 and A26 Boarding Passes. At 5:45 we took the stairs and walked across to wait for a Magic Kingdom bus.

Before our bus arrived, we saw something that I had never before seen at Disney World. There was a Downtown Disney bus pulled up to the stop that was loading a passenger in a wheelchair. Soon, a second Downtown Disney bus pulled in behind. That driver waited for a few minutes then got off the bus and shouted “Downtown Disney” at the folks waiting at the stop. He probably hadn’t realized the bus in front of him was a Downtown Disney bus because, really, how often do you see one, let alone two, at a bus stop?

Then it happened; the “hat trick” of Disney transportation. A third Downtown Disney bus pulled up. This driver, seeing the traffic jam at the stop, pulled around the other two buses and up to the stop where he stopped and waited to see if anyone approached. When no one did, he took off. But for the briefest of moments, we had three Downtown Disney buses at the same bus stop – that’s a rarer sight than Brittney Spears at a PTA meeting.

In just a few minutes, we were heading to the Magic Kingdom. As we were boarding the bus, an older woman came from the side and absolutely cut me off as I was boarding behind Barb. It wasn’t a big deal as we were the last to board but I just wondered why she did it. I held back and invited her husband to board after her. He looked a bit embarrassed and told me to go ahead. I insisted. He insisted. I finally won and he boarded with me bringing up the rear.

The Magic Kingdom was already roped off for SpectroMagic. We were thinking about some dinner and we walked over to the podium at the Plaza Restaurant. I said, “I think I know the answer already but, I have to ask. Do you have any tables…” The CM cut me off, apologizing, and informing me they were booked solid all night. Gotta love the Dining Plan.

We walked over to the Tip Board and I asked the CM there if she knew when the Columbia Harbour House closed. She checked and found it was one hour before closing so that meant 7:00. Our last few trips, I can recall it closing at 6:00 so we speed-walked over there half-expecting it to be closed. It was not and, surprisingly, it wasn’t packed.

I had my usual Anchors Aweigh which is the white tuna with lettuce and tomato on toasted multigrain bread. I have to say, it’s one of the best tuna sandwiches I’ve had anywhere. I also had a bowl of Vegetarian Chili that was excellent. I really like the Harbour House. Barb had the BLT Salad, mixed greens with crispy chicken, bacon, egg, and tomato. We typically take our food upstairs here but the stairs were roped off so had to sit with the riff-raff downstairs. It wasn’t bad but it seems we had a lot of crying babies.

Speaking of children… We both commented this entire trip at the large numbers of school age children that were here. There are way too many bad parents taking their children out of school for Disney vacations. Stop that!

We visited the Haunted Mansion, which had a 5-minute wait, then joined a fair crowd in Liberty Square for SpectroMagic. We’re adults, and reasonably tall, so standing behind a 4-deep to see a parade is no big deal. However… it never ceases to amaze me how so many people will get to the viewing area just as the parade starts and somehow push, nudge and squirm their way through people that had been waiting much longer. It’s really annoying. One other thing that frosts my flakes… I have no problem with a Dad, back in the crowd, putting a young child on his shoulders so the child can see. But if you’re in the front row, there’s nothing blocking your child’s view. Elevating them onlys serves to block the view of others. If people would only consider the impact of their actions on others…

When SpectroMagic ended, we decided to avoid the crowds by taking the long way back to Main Street, through Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. That was made a bit tougher with detouring around the areas in Fantasyland that were roped off as debris zones for Wishes.

We found a nice spot, smack in the middle of Main Street, to view Wishes. From the conversations around us, there are tons of UK people here. It seemed 2 out of 3 people in the MK that night had a British accent.

We enjoyed Wishes and then joined the heavy crowd waddling out toward the bus stops. We were on a bus in just a few minutes – Barb got one of the last seats while I stood. We exited at the Boardwalk, made a restroom stop for Barb off the lobby and made it into Epcot and at the UK bridge by 8:47.

We took a spot by the back railing. On my left were two young moms, their mother, and 3 of their children – all under the age of 3: Blake, Colin and I didn’t catch the third one’s name. Within 3 minutes, Blake smacked Colin in the face with a light saber – hard. Colin was screaming. The third one emptied a juice box on to the ground then followed that with a baggie full of Cheerios. Then he and Blake decided that stomping and pulverizing the Cheerios was a good idea. All this time, the 2 moms were laughing and swapping stories like, “You think that’s bad? Last week he set the sofa on fire…”. We moved up to the front railing – even if it was 3 deep.

After Illuminations we decided that a drink at the Belle Vue Room was in order. For some strange reason, we haven’t been in there for a cocktail in something like 3 trips. That needs rectifying. Allen was still the bartender – he’s been there since our first visit in 2001. He does a great job of tending the bar and waiting tables without missing a beat or letting someone go too long waiting for a refill.

Barb had an Amaretto and I a Manhattan. We quit after only one so I, once again, have destroyed the breasts line. Back to the room where we learned the Phillies had won the World Series.

By the way, did I remember to buy that hat at the Magic Kingdom tonight? Uh… nope.

Things I Think I Think:
I think Conservation Station can be an interesting place, depending on your timing. I think we’ve had really good luck with the buses but, I have never seen 3 Downtown Disney buses together before – and may never see it again. I think Ghirardelli’s may become a regular stop for us – the sundaes were THAT good. I think considerate people are in the minority at Disney World and it’s unfortunate. I think I enjoy the Boardwalk – I know I’ve said it before but, where else can you catch Wishes at 8:00, Illuminations at 9:00, hit the Belle Vue Room at 9:30 and be in your room at 10:30?

Thursday, October 30, 2008 – Homeward Bound

The last day is typically kind of depressing but this one isn’t so bad. We’re coming back in January with part of our family so that softens the blow.

Up at 7:15 today. It seems we wake up later each day on every Disney World trip. Plus… we have nowhere we have to be today so… Barb went to the Belle Vue Room and brought back coffee and cheese Danish. I swear the Danish must have weighed 2 pounds.

We packed everything up and brought it down for Bell Services to store. I also stopped at Guest Services where they kindly printed our Boarding Passes for us. We entered Epcot, via the International Gateway, at 9:30 and headed for the Land.

I grabbed Soarin’ FastPasses that were good for 10:21 and then we entered Standby which had a posted wait of 20-minutes. We were off the ride in 23. We then walked down and rode the Seas with Nemo but didn’t stick around for Turtle Talk with Crush.

We walked over for a last ride on Spaceship Earth, and to see if the ride’s cameras would finally cooperate but, as luck would have it, the ride was down.

The forecast for today was still cool but warming as the day went on. That, plus the fact we’d be flying home into 30-degrees, meant we opted for jeans again today. Well, by 10:15, I had taken off the sweatshirt and was wishing I’d worn shorts. Oh, well.

We walked up by the Tip Board and noticed Spaceship Earth said “Open” so their problem must have just happened. We thought about a ride on Ellen’s Energy Adventure but that was down also. Sheesh! OK, it’s 10:20, let’s use our Soarin’ FastPasses.

We entered the FastPass queue and walked all the way down to where we were just short of the CM station. We were held there for a minute and, glancing around, the woman behind me looked familiar. Now, I had never met Sue Holland before but, I have seen her photo. I was pretty sure this was her but… not 100% certain, if you know what I mean.

I turned and asked, “Sue?” I must have caught her by surprise because she said “What?” and I was fairly certain she started reaching for the pepper spray in her bag. I said “Are you Sue?” and braced myself for the mace to the face followed by the brass knuckles to the mid-section. She said “Yes” so I introduced myself, and Barb, and was relieved when she didn’t run screaming for Security.

We had a nice, but brief, chat where I expressed my admiration for the way she writes her trip reports each day. She said it was easy. “I just write that I went here, rode this, ate that…” Soon they we calling for a “party of two” and we said a quick goodbye. It was a pleasure meeting Sue and now that I know who to look for, I’m certain we’ll run into her again. Of course, now she knows what I look like so she may be a bit harder to find.

We enjoyed Soarin’ for the last time this trip then walked over for a ride on Mission: Space – green side of course. When the ride finished, we began to exit and had to step aside for 3 or 4 CMs armed with mops, brooms and dustpans. I’m guessing a protein spill in aisle 4.

Next up was Mousegear where I didn’t find a hat I liked but, we did pick up some gifts for the kids – Disney calendars, salt & pepper shakers, stuff like that.

Barb had been eyeing a Mickey Mouse watch all week but hadn’t yet pulled the trigger. She had seen it back at the Boardwalk so we thought we’d look there. We walked back through World Showcase where we stopped for a Churro and Chocolate Sauce in Barcelona (very small serving but OK and 6 out of 10 salad tongs). We also stopped so I could devour one last Spicy Tuna Roll from Tokyo.

Then it was back to the Yacht Club and the Captain’s Grille for lunch. I had a cup of New England chowder and a tuna sandwich while Barb had a hamburger. Both were good.

We hit the screen door where Barb decided against the watch (because of the strap) and I still couldn’t find a hat. I did, however, find the Soarin’ soundtrack I had been searching for. It was part of the Four Parks – One World CD. I didn’t think I wanted the CD and $25 was steep for just the Soarin’ track but I bought it anyway and… I’m glad I did. It’s got songs from the pre-shows and attractions from all 4 parks and is really pretty neat.

We headed upstairs where the Boardwalk was keeping with their annual tradition and had carved pumpkins out on display for their competition. Each area (housekeeping, food services, front desk, etc.) submits one and there are several that are really well done and quite elaborate.

We took some seats by the fireplace and those hideous “Little Girl Chairs”. The clown’s head at the Luna Park pool scares some people - these chairs give me the creeps. They were taken from 19th century European carousel where, apparently, the parents sat while their children would sit on the carved animals. I also learned that the elephant on the mantle was actually modeled after an elephant hotel built back in the 1930s. Guests would climb stairs, housed in the elephant’s legs, to small and oddly shaped rooms (14 or 15 of them) in the elephant’s body.

It was here I also met today’s Interesting Guest of the Day. She had bright orange and black hair and had one arm and the opposite leg completely tattooed – as in every square inch covered with some elaborate artwork.

Eventually, we wandered outside, retrieved our bags and made it onto our Magical Express bus. Gas at the Hess station was now $2.399 as we drove by.

At the airport, we visited a Skycap to check our bags. I endured 3 trips through the Security scanner after removing my watch, belt, and finally, the 2 quarters in my pocket. Our flight left 30 minutes late but landed just about on time. It was 30 degrees. Another trip in the books.

Wrap-up
I think we achieved our goal of having a more relaxing time this trip. While we visited the parks each day, they really weren’t a focal point. We didn’t feel as if we needed to ride every ride. We were content to hit a few favorites while not fighting crowds.

Highs: Just being there. We really enjoyed both Jiko’s and Narcoossee’s. Toy Story Mania is a great new attraction. We always enjoy our favorites (Soarin’, Mickey’s Philharmagic, Illuminations, etc.).

Lows: Not much really. 3 room changes and a few inconsiderate people. And let’s not forget the ABC Commissary.

Our next trip will be a week in January with 2 of our 3 children, their significant others and our grandson. Until then… thanks for reading.

Steve

Questions or comments? Email me at srusso@nycap.rr.com. Just put ‘Trip Report’ in the subject line or risk being washed away with the spam.

[tdelaney_98]

Absolutely delightful. Narcoossee's must be on my next must-do list. I'm trying Captain's Grille next month. Seeing Sue must've been cool! Thanks for taking the time to write.--always enjoy your reports.

[Sue Holland]

Wonderful report, Steve - as usual!

I believe Southwest holds the first 15 numbers for the fools paying a business class rate. I'm surprised you saw 5 of them - I've seen 1 after many flights. Also, if some started their flight earlier but were connecting with your flight - they would have been given their numbers before you were able to check in.

Sounds like we almost met on Sunday. I also walked from BW to HS, and also was at the rope drop, and got a fastpass (9:45), and missed Toy Story due to the technical difficulties. I was out of the park before it started operating.

I'm looking forward to trying that bbq chicken flatbread at Jiko next trip - I've yet to hear anything but raves about it!

Looking forward to your next great report in January!

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by Sue Holland

Wonderful report, Steve - as usual!

I believe Southwest holds the first 15 numbers for the fools paying a business class rate. I'm surprised you saw 5 of them - I've seen 1 after many flights. Also, if some started their flight earlier but were connecting with your flight - they would have been given their numbers before you were able to check in.

Sounds like we almost met on Sunday. I also walked from BW to HS, and also was at the rope drop, and got a fastpass (9:45), and missed Toy Story due to the technical difficulties. I was out of the park before it started operating.

I'm looking forward to trying that bbq chicken flatbread at Jiko next trip - I've yet to hear anything but raves about it!

Looking forward to your next great report in January!

Thanks. It sounds like you, me and Laura Galbreath were all at Toy Story Mania during that breakdown. Should have had a RADP meet.

[arnoldvb]

Hi Steve,

Thanks for another great trip report. As we've noted over the years, your park touring philosophy and ours are so much alike. When I read your trip reports, it's like reading one of my own -- except that you have a much keener sense of humor in your writing.

Helena and I will be visiting Disney World again this Christmas, staying off-site and planning to spend alot of our time touring the resorts. We have reservations for meals at at least five resorts, including Jiko, Whispering Canyon, and others we've never experienced before. We did take your suggestion (in an earlier email correspondence) to also plan some park time.

In your current report, I was struck by the many encounters that you had with unacceptable guest behavior. Unfortunately, it's a trend that seems to be growing.

I look forward to your future report on your January family trip.

Arnold

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by arnoldvb

Hi Steve,

Thanks for another great trip report. As we've noted over the years, your park touring philosophy and ours are so much alike. When I read your trip reports, it's like reading one of my own -- except that you have a much keener sense of humor in your writing.

Helena and I will be visiting Disney World again this Christmas, staying off-site and planning to spend alot of our time touring the resorts. We have reservations for meals at at least five resorts, including Jiko, Whispering Canyon, and others we've never experienced before. We did take your suggestion (in an earlier email correspondence) to also plan some park time.

In your current report, I was struck by the many encounters that you had with unacceptable guest behavior. Unfortunately, it's a trend that seems to be growing.

I look forward to your future report on your January family trip.

Arnold

Hi Arnold,
Yes, I think I've made comments before about the similarities in our families and touring style. Regaring the comments on "unacceptable guest behavior", I honestly can't determine if there's more of it, I'm noticing it more or I'm including more of it in my reports. I'm hoping it's just one of the latter two.

Thanks for the comments. I'm looking forward to your next report to see how Jiko, and the others, went.

[Pammer]

Terrific report as always, Steve!

FYI...I believe the 'hooked monkeys' you mentioned are called a 'barrel of monkeys'...I had some when I was a child!

[EJ4Disney]

Great trip report Steve. I always look forward to yours.

Thanks agian,
Ellen

[njtravelerof6]

Really enjoyed reading your trip report, Steve (you are one of my favorite writers here). Thanks for posting and look forward to your next report!

[jmb910]

I was so excited when I saw this trip report pop up. I have been waiting for it . Can't wait to read the next installment. Congrats on the "unofficial" doubling of your grandchildren!

Jennifer

[Silvercat]

Hey Steve - great report, as always. I really enjoy reading your reports, they make me laugh and are really interesting.

I last visited WDW in October last year, and my long and family-fuelled rant can be found elsewhere on this board. However, through work (I work for a large bank) I have been given the opportunity to go to Florida at the beginning of December to work as a volunteer with a children's charity from the UK that grants wishes to terminally-ill children. The children and their families will be staying at the Give the Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, whilst the volunteers are staying at the Buena Vista Suites hotel. I am really looking forward to this, as my previous visits to WDW have obviously given me lots of insights into fun things to do and see, and I want to be able to impart some of this to the families, most of whom have not been to Florida before.

Anyway, the point of this ramble is that unfortunately I don't think I will be able to do a trip report for this trip, as it would be insensitive to the families concerned, which is a shame really as I do enjoy producing trip reports. However, this week in Florida is not about me, it is about giving a sick child the holiday of a lifetime, and the family some memories to treasure.

Thanks again for your report Steve - here's to the next one!

[SJF510]

Loved the trip report.

I think I can help clear up a bit more of the Southwest Seating Mystery. In addition the "business" fares which hold the first 15 seats, they also have an "A Level" program which allows frequent fliers (32 plus trips a year, I believe) to have seats assigned before check in (usually A, but not guaranteed). Bascially resulting in them not having to check in early. I traveled way too much this year for work, so I am a member of this program. The boarding passes that I've gotten usually have me in the low 20's. So those are some of the other bodies taking up valuable boarding numbers.

[srusso100]

To all that have replied...

Thanks for the kind words. It's appreciated.

[relaaxedwheniamthere]

Things i like about steve russo. P.o.f.q. Just love it . Your ability to catch busses how the h%#l do you do it ? Tuna sandwich @habour house excellent. Narcossee @ grand floridan one of my top 3 res. Next time try & get there 1 hr. Early & tour lobby & get you & barb a adult bev. & sit in one of the plush chairs & listen to the piano player & the band on the second floor & watch the world go by. Wish i was their right now & i will be in t- 14 working days for all the xmas beauty ! Rose & crown pub . Things i could do with out ? My dumplin thinking she should be treated like barb...................

[Jim Pertierra]

Steve,
And what to my wandering eyes did appear?

I just got done reading Sheri's trip report from the 7th Circle of Danteland..and here is another in the Adventures of Steve and Barb (Hi Pop!) (You and I are old enough to remember that).

Thanks for the prep before we pass in the airport on January 10.

We paid the bill yesterday so now all is offical for 47 days from now!!

Best/Jim

[FortWilderness IsHome]

Hi Steve,

Wonderful trip report as always!!!! I so enjoy reading about your adventures at Disney. All the humor that you include is just a bonus!!!
I have also vowed NEVER to return to the ABC Commissary....UGH....just terrible food. I mentioned it in my Nov. 2006 trip report and have kept my word, never again!!!!
I laughed when I read about "Mom" on the ECV incident. We had a similar incident while touring Independence Hall in Philly back in April.....lucky for us, we survived with all of our limbs intact!!!
I was happy to read that you didnt have any unruly Patriots fan this year at the ESPN zone.....I clearly remember your experieince a few years ago!
We leave for Disney next week, I have my fingers crossed that we dont have any of those Florida "cold fronts" come through!
As always thanks again for sharing your trip with us, I know how much work goes into them, but they are so fun to read!!! I will be looking forward to reading about your trip in January!
Thanks, Heidi Commerford

[MRSMOLE]

Your reports are always so fun to read. Thanks for sharing with all of us.

[testrack]

Excellent report, enjoyed as I always do.

Nearly put my back out of whack reading about the evc.

Question, the CD of Soarin you said has the pre shows music from all 4 parks, does it include Illuminations pre show music.

I have been looking for the CD for Illuminations and the pre show but never find it when I am there. And by the way I leave in 19 days so reading your trip report made me even more anxious to get out of dodge and arrive to my second home.

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by Jim Pertierra

Steve,
And what to my wandering eyes did appear?

I just got done reading Sheri's trip report from the 7th Circle of Danteland..and here is another in the Adventures of Steve and Barb (Hi Pop!) (You and I are old enough to remember that).

Thanks for the prep before we pass in the airport on January 10.

We paid the bill yesterday so now all is offical for 47 days from now!!

Best/Jim

Looking forward to yours. Which airport will we pass in - MCO or ALB?

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by FortWilderness IsHome

Hi Steve,

Wonderful trip report as always!!!! I so enjoy reading about your adventures at Disney. All the humor that you include is just a bonus!!!
I have also vowed NEVER to return to the ABC Commissary....UGH....just terrible food. I mentioned it in my Nov. 2006 trip report and have kept my word, never again!!!!
I laughed when I read about "Mom" on the ECV incident. We had a similar incident while touring Independence Hall in Philly back in April.....lucky for us, we survived with all of our limbs intact!!!
I was happy to read that you didnt have any unruly Patriots fan this year at the ESPN zone.....I clearly remember your experieince a few years ago!
We leave for Disney next week, I have my fingers crossed that we dont have any of those Florida "cold fronts" come through!
As always thanks again for sharing your trip with us, I know how much work goes into them, but they are so fun to read!!! I will be looking forward to reading about your trip in January!
Thanks, Heidi Commerford

Thanks, Heidi. Don't sweat the cold fronts - a cold day at Disney beats a... ah, you know the rest. Have a great trip.

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by testrack

Excellent report, enjoyed as I always do.

Nearly put my back out of whack reading about the evc.

Question, the CD of Soarin you said has the pre shows music from all 4 parks, does it include Illuminations pre show music.

I have been looking for the CD for Illuminations and the pre show but never find it when I am there. And by the way I leave in 19 days so reading your trip report made me even more anxious to get out of dodge and arrive to my second home.

The "4 parks" CD does not have Illuminations pre-show music. I know you can by the Illuminations CD (I have it on the Millenium CD). I have listed the pre-show music in my most recent column (http://www.mouseplanet.com/articles.php?art=mo081114sr). You could search for it online (iTunes, etc.). Good luck.

[arnoldvb]

The "4 parks" CD does not have Illuminations pre-show music. I know you can by the Illuminations CD (I have it on the Millenium CD). I have listed the pre-show music in my most recent column . You could search for it online (iTunes, etc.). Good luck.

The 2001 CD "Epcot: Tapestry of Dreams" includes the Illuminations: Reflections of Earth soundtrack. I saw this CD at Mousegear in Epcot, Downtown Disney, and Saratoga Springs Resort as recently as April 2008.

[testrack]

Thank You very much. The CD will be the first on my list of shopping items.

Again, Thank You

[marclichon]

I always look forward to your reports, Mr Russo! I've mentioned this before, I've only published one (written two) but take inspiration from your style. Also, I still think we should start a Russo Disney fund so your trip reports can be more frequent!

[srusso100]

Originally Posted by marclichon

I always look forward to your reports, Mr Russo! I've mentioned this before, I've only published one (written two) but take inspiration from your style. Also, I still think we should start a Russo Disney fund so your trip reports can be more frequent!

Thanks so much.

I love the idea about the Send Russo to Disney Fund. I'll do whatever I can to help ;-)