Author: Libby Withnall

Post party we all had a nice sleep in (well 8am is very much a sleep in) and relaxed morning.

It was a much cooler morning, which top expect temp of only 18C. From the forecast our nice warm days are behind us – which is a shame as I’d have liked to have more time by the pool. But as long as it’s not raining we won’t complain. We’ve had such great weather so far.

Shortly after 1pm we finally set out to catch, not one, but two monorails over the EPCOT. We walked over to the Contemporary Resort and caught the first monorail over to the ticket & transport center, then changed to the EPCOT monorail.

It’s a fun thing to do – even if you don’t want to go into EPCOT – and gives you a good view of the surrounding areas – there is so much nature still.

And I love how the monorail winds it’s way through part of EPCOT before you get to the station.

As you can see it was a beautiful day. It was nice entering from the front, as this is what we are most used to.

We had wanted to ride Guardians of the Galaxy again but I only remembered at 1.04pm that we were supposed to get a ticket at 1pm so of course we missed out and there were none available to buy. Oh well, at least we got to ride twice the other day.

Since Spaceship Earth had a 5min wait we decided to go on that first before getting some lunch. Kevin & I decided to do an “alternate us” for our future, though for some reason our photo wasn’t taken so I ended up as a cartoon and Kevin ended up with no face !!

From here we went over to the Connections Cafe. Kevin mobile ordered our lunch and then went, with Christy, to Starbucks to get some drinks. I had a dragon drink (surprise, surprise), Kevin had his usual iced chai latte and Christy had a hot chocolate (along with a croissant). I once again really enjoyed the vegan curry veg pizza. I got Kevin to try some today and he agreed it was really good.

We waited here while Christy went to ride Test Track. Though we all had a DAS pass Kevin and I weren’t too interested in riding again. We’ve discovered we’re not into the rides as much as we used to be – not the fast/coaster ones anyway – except for guardians :-). We then met her over at Soarin’. For the reason, even with the DAS pass, we ended up with a quite a long wait, then we got like the worst seats on the ride – bottom row right at the side. Still a good ride though.

We then for a third ride on Living with the Land – and spotted things we hadn’t seen before. On our next trip to WDW we’re going to do the Behind the Seeds tour.

Without being able to do Guardians we had done everything in the park we wanted to (that didn’t require a long walk into World Showcase) so we headed towards the entrance, though Christy did go to ride Finding Nemo, while we waited outside and people watched.

We then exited the park and caught the two monorails back to our resort, though this time on the resort monorail we went past the Polynesion and the Grand Floridian (both of which we are going to visit tomorrow).

We got a nice view of our resort and were treated to a very nice sunset.

We did receive some sad news as we walked back to the room. We’d had a vet from Rest Your Paws out to check up on Bailey and give him some more pain meds (as our vet refused to do so without seeing Bailey). Sadly they felt it was almost time for him to be put to sleep. It’s not unexpected (he’s now 14.5 years old) and I even said a special goodbye to him before we left (in case I didn’t see him again). We called with Mum (who was pretty upset) to talk with her. The vet will go back out on Monday and see how Bailey is fairing. So it ended up being a bit of an odd night. Kevin cooked us some pasta for dinner and we watched YouTube (before I started falling asleep before 8.30pm. Christy went to back to EPCOT and was able to ride Guardians twice so she was really happy.

I was awake by 8am this morning and though I missed the sunrise (as I have most days) it was still very pretty when I got up.

Unfortunately I had plenty of fibro pain this morning but luckily we had no plans until late in the afternoon. Kevin & I already decided not to go to Hollywood Studio this morning as planned. Christy still headed off though for her first proper solo trip of the holiday.

Kevin went for a bath mid-morning and I had one after him. It did help with my pain but I also took some extra pain meds. The bath is being very well used by all of us and is so luxurious. I finally managed to finish my book while I was in the bath. Because I keep falling asleep after just a few mins, it’s taken me 10 days to read this book – and it is a good one !!

Shortly before 12pm the forecast rain arrived. Definitely a good afternoon to be snuggled up inside – though it actually still warm out. Kevin and I were still hanging out in bed, with me trying to write up 2 days of blog posts.

Christy arrived back around 1.30pm slightly damp but having managed to avoid the heavier rain. For lunch I made Kevin and I a yummy salad – with the salad I had bought from Wholefoods the other day and some other things that we had. Kevin is never keen when I suggest salad but then always says I make a good one.

I still wasn’t feeling great but eventually got ready to head to our second Christmas Party. I took some more pain meds which thankfully worked (and I was actually pretty good all night). Kevin ended up having some last minute work to do, then Christy rang Nan & Pop and then Kevin had to ring our vets (to try and get some more pain meds for Bailey, then finally were out the door about 5.45pm. So though we were later than planned we were still early for the party (which officially starts at 7pm).

After our short 6 min walk we were in the gates and back into the Magic Kingdom. Being a bit later most of the day crowd seemed to have left. We made our way over to Pirates, which was straight walk on. We managed to get the front row – which is definitely the best way to see the ride.

We picked up cookies (and eggnog for Kevin) and headed to was Big Mountain Railway – so fun to experience this at night.

On way over to the Haunted Mansion we came across some the Jamboree Bears having a dance. It’s always fun to stumble across something unexpected like this.

We stopped by Columbia House for cookies and hot chocolate and found a dry seat to have a little rest while Christy drank the hot chocolate. Kevin & I were way too hot, steamy and sweaty to want something warm to drink. With the grounds so wet from all the rain it was really humid.

The Haunted Mansion had an expected wait time of 20min but it was straight walk on. Who on earth does the wait times these days? They are very rarely right.

After another photopass photo (we’ve made such good use of these) . And I was super excited to spot the Rapunzel lantern photo spot as I’ve been wanting one of these photos.

We then went on It’s a Small World – which was again a walk on. We requested front row and ended up with an entire boat to ourselves – which is the perfect way to experience this ride – though Christy did talk a lot throughout the ride !!

With the wait times so often wrong we decided to do Peter Pans Flight with a 20min wait time. This was during the time of the 1st parade so Fantasy Land was fairly empty. The line goes through The Darling home – which I don’t recall ever seeing before so that was nice. The wait time ended up being just over 20mins (which is a lot less than the usual 60min + that this ride always tends to be even on a party night). It’s a cute ride but we don’t understand who would wait this long for it !

After Peter Pan we collected some more cookies and hot chocolate (Kevin had one this time) from Pinocchio’s – which is one of the cutest places to eat. We stopped for another rest.

It was nearly 10pm now so while people were waiting for the fireworks show we thought it would be good to try and meet the Pooh gang – which was one of the things I wanted to do at the party. Along the way we saw Aurora and her Prince dancing while waiting for the next guest for photos. Another cute moment.

As we approached the Pooh photo area they were all just leaving for a break. Knowing they would be back in about 5 mins we got in the short line just as the fireworks started – so we were able to enjoy a mini fireworks show (of the ones we could see) while we waited.

Then it was our time to meet the gang. First up a cuddle with all of them and then a photo. They are all cute dressed in their Winter scarves.

Of course we then had to go on the Winnie the Pooh ride (with no wait).

I nearly always get something in the ride gift shop and tonight was no exception – I got some cute summer jammies.

Then another item on my list. We haven’t been on Autopia (I think that’s what it’s called) since the kids were young but in 2019 I’d seen it had Christmas lights so I wanted to go on it. While waiting we got a glimpse of Tron testing – looks so cool at night. Just as we were about to get into our car it started raining harder so we debated whether to stay or get out of the rain. Kevin felt the rain wouldn’t get any heavier so we got into our car. And honestly within minutes it has stopped completely. Kevin found the car very hard to steer so just ended up letting it bounce around on it’s track.

We stopped by another cookie place – this time getting ginger cookies – Kevin asked for an extra one and was given two more. Time to ride the peoplemover again. Such a better experience when I’m not in pain.

It was after 11pm now and time for our last ride of the right – Space Mountain. However, I forgotten just how long the walk to and from the ride is so we’ve decided to remove this from our riding list in the future. It was fun to do with Rock Christmas Music and lights but we all agreed Guardians is similar and so much better.

Time to leave and thankfully the parade was still going so we were able to make our way down Main Street behind all the people watching the parade.

As we were on our way out we noticed that meet Mickey only had a 5 min wait. So we decided to do that, which was the perfect way to end a very special evening. Mickey was so cute escorting Christy to put her bag down, giving us all a nice big hug , laughing when I didn’t get his motions about Christy’s tower or terror ears and on the way out he grabbed my hand and kissed it. What a sweetie !!! Such a great meet & greet.

As we exited we saw the parade was still going (though almost finished) and we were able to leave the park ahead of the crowds. Not long after we were back in our room. Even though it was almost midnight I enjoy some chips/crisps and cold drink while we watched just ONE video on YouTube. I then started on my new (Christmas) book and at 1pm it was time to go to sleep.

After going to bed in the early hours of the morning I was definitely the first one up about 7.30am (giving me about 5.5 hours sleep). Kevin and Christy woke around 10am but we still lazed the morning away until after midday when we finally got out the door and headed to Disney Springs.

Thankfully it was SOOOO much quieter than on Saturday. Our first, and most important stop, was World of Disney. And this time we could move freely and have room to actually look at everything. I ended up buying a mug and Kevin got a backpack to replace the one he’s been using at the parks – which is falling apart.

After doing mobile checkout we took some photos…

before going into Basin – which always smells so amazing.

We spent some time smelling different bath bombs and other bath products. We also used the scrub to wash our hands.

After making a very purchases we wandered through more stores, stopping at this great little photo pass place.

I also spotted a gorgeous little Golden puppy who was training to be a service dog. We made a few purchases including a nice dress that will be part of Christy’s xmas gift.

At 2.20pm we made our way to the Rainforest Cafe for our 2.30pm lunch booking. Though I asked for a quiet table, the restaurant was at about 50% capacity and not noisy at all (which was great).

The only noisy time was during the thunderstorm when all the animals make noise.

We had a lovely waitress who was pleased to learn we were loyal visitors (we always have lunch here during our trips). I ordered my usual China Island Chicken Salad without the chicken, Kevin order steak and raviolli and Christy had a kids toasted cheese sandwich with mashed potatoes. We all loved our meals.

After lunch it was time for some more shopping, starting with the Art of Disney, where we bought 2 prints – a Thomas Kincade 50th celebration and one by a new to us artist, Rob Kaz, who was there and able to sign the print for us. I just love the style of his work.

Next was the Christmas shop but we’re all a little disappointed or maybe we’re just more discerning, and aren’t finding much that we want to buy.

Christy wanted to visit the Lego Store so I had a little sitdown while she went inside and Kevin went to get a drink from Starbucks. We also stopped in at Erin McKenna’s (vegan) bakery but I was too full post lunch to think about eating anything from here. We’ll just have to come back.

We then slowly made our way right to the other end of Disney Springs, with me stopping to take photos of everything, including the special themed Christmas trees.

Finally we got the Cirque du Soliel big tent. Thankfully we didn’t have to wait to long to enter, but we did have a bit of wait until we could go our seats. Kevin got me a drink and we found a spot to sit while we waited.

Eventually we were let into the theatre and it wasn’t long before there was some pre-show entertainment. I took a few photos here since we were not allowed during the show (I think).

The show was fabulous. I wasn’t sure what to expect as ticket sales don’t seem to be as good as expected (from what I know) but it was incredible. I always come away from a cirque show saying I haven’t seen that before. This show was very female heavy with performers doing things in fancy flowing skirts that you usually see guys doing. I’m sad I could film any because I’d love to rewatch – I can probably find some clips on YouTube.

When we came out of the theatre it was dark and Disney Springs was all lit up and looking beautiful. It was also noticeably busier than it had been at 5pm (it was now after 7pm).

We also came across a great performer who was playing the didgeridoo and guiter (he’s American, we checked). I’d be happy to see his whole “show” if we get the chance.

As we were driving back to the resort I looked up what time the fireworks were going to be on. It was 9.10 and they were going to be at 9.15pm. Thinking we might be able to see them from outside the resort entrance, Kevin dropped us off before going to find a parking spot. When we heard the piped in music we knew we were in the right place and, though the music was soft and we couldn’t see the castle, we certainly had a wonderful display of fireworks – without the need to stake out a spot or battle the crowds.

When they were finished we headed up to our room. I microwaved some dinners we had bought had wholefoods the other day and we ate them (in bed) while watching some YouTube. I then tried to get my book finished but was too tired and couldn’t quite manage it.

We all really struggled to get moving today. My fibro pain was worse – I assume to doing too much yesterday. I woke up around 7am but didn’t get moving till 9am when I went for my shower and to start packing. Luckily packing up was fairly straight forward as everything just had to fit into our bags (and we were using our spare bag for souvenirs /gifts. Once all our bags were packed Kevin called for them to be picked up and transfered over to Bay Lake Towers (so helpful not to have to move them ourselves when changing resorts). I then ate my Amy’s tofu scramble for breakfast while last minute pantry items were being packed. Just after 11am we left the room and drove around 20mins to Wholefoods.

Finally I got the chance to have a slow shop at Wholefoods and pick up some items that I wanted and some stocking stuffers for the kids. Also our groceries for the next week. We didn’t pick up everything though – no frozen items (we found out later the resorts will not only store fridge items but also frozen ones).

We were here for over an hour. Christy wanted to know what was the nearest thing we had to Wholefoods in Australia and there is NOTHING. After we loaded the car with groceries Kevin spotted a Dunkin’ Donuts right next door and wanted to get a drink to try. He got frozen chai latte which he really enjoyed but found to be about 80% ice. He got me Strawberry Dragonfruit refresher with coconut milk – which I did enjoy but not as much my dragonfruit drink from Starbucks.

We then drove back into the Disneyworld bubble and to Bay Lake Towers.

It was funny having mostly groceries to check in – but I think they are kind of used to that – and they have the trolley for the job. They look it all away to store until our room is ready.

Since our room was obviously not ready we had a quick little explore around the pool area before heading across the linkway to the Contemporary Resort where we checked out gingerbread house display and explored some shops

before having lunch in the Contempo Cafe. I had the tofu bowl – it was pretty good and I mainly ate the rice, tofu and bean mixture. Kevin had the kids burger.

I was super happy to see the magical Mary Blair murals. I just love her art style. Hard to believe they are 50 years old.

After lunch we checked out the other stores – not buying anything – and then found a table in the lounge to just sit and rest and wait. Luckily we were able to move to a more comfy lounge not too long after – which also gave a great water view and a rainbow off in the distance.

We were getting a bit antsy to head to the Magic Kingdom for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party so about 3.45pm we walked back over to Bay Lake Towers to find out how our room was going. It was apparently waiting for inspection so we took a seat in the lobby to wait.

Just before 4.30pm we got a text to say our room was ready. Kevin asked for our luggage at the Bell Services desk before we headed up and luckily our luggage was already here from Riviera (they say before 7pm). Our room is really nice but the resort overall is not as nice (to us at least) as the Riviera.

We again have a one bedroom which means plenty of space and seperate area for Christy to sleep, though it’s a sofa bed this time.

Our luggage and groceries arrived quickly so we were able to put stuff in the fridge, gather what we needed and prep the room ready to fall into bed sometime after midnight. Then we set off for the Magic Kingdom, which is just a 6 minute walk away. It did seem odd not taking the ferry across as that’s what we usually do to get to the Magic Kingdom.

Security was a straight walk through and only a few people in line at the entry booths. We got our party wristbands and walked so we could get our first look at the castle and main street.

We then went around to the party entrance, where we received a very nice and unexpected xmas ornament.

We were going to use our advance DAS pass to go on Haunted Mansion but got stopped by our first ever calvacade (little mini parade they started doing during the pandemic). Then it on to Haunted Mansion. This is one of our favs but some reason this trip all the rides seem to be over so quick.

We then headed to Pecos Bills for an early dinner before the party officially starts at 7pm. I had another rice bowl – this one was nicer with black beans, capsicum, onion and rice. I ate it ALL. Kevin had a fajitas plate and Christy had some tortillas. We did find out later that Pecos Bills is open during the party but I still think it was good to have eaten now.

We walked over to Big Thunder but unfortunately it was down. So we entered Adventureland to ride Pirates (one of our favs)

We picked up our first (free) cookie, then rode on Aladdin’s magic carpet before wandering (without any plan) over to the main hub. It’s so beautiful at night with all the Christmas lights on.

Then it was over to Tomorrowland for the Transport Tourist Authority. Unfortunately I was not feeling good at this point. Fibro pain all over – I took some more pain meds which will hopefully work. This meant I didn’t enjoy this ride as much as I normally do but it’s okay we’ll go it again at some stage.

Since I wasn’t doing too good we went to watch the Monsters Inc Laugh Floor (though ended up having wait a good 10-15 min until we took our seats. This was a funny show and we all enjoyed it.

We then did Buzz Lightyear, which was a walk on. The ride stopped midway through but you were able to keep shooting so both Kevin and Christy maxed out points at 999,999.

Christy then rerode since she wanted to get a proper score. Kevin and I found a nearby seat. Sadly I still wasn’t feeling good so we decided to prioritise watching the fireworks and parades and leave the rides until the next party. So we made our way back to the main hub arriving just as the parade was starting past. So we had to wait for that to be finished before we could get some seats to wait for the fireworks. It wasn’t where we’d been heading too but it was fine. We were beside a garden area which meant no-one could stand right in front of us and we had a seat to sit on while we waited the 45mins until the fireworks. I enjoyed some popcorn that Kevin had gotten for me earlier and did plenty of people watching. I made a trip to the toilet and made a friend when the lady in front of my starting chatting when she heard my accent. We have found all the Americans here to be so friendly – always chatting in lifts or at least saying to have a great day. I don’t really remember this from previous trips but maybe that’s because we didn’t stay onsite. I don’t know. It was the same at Universal. Thankfully I was slowly starting to feel better. Maybe thanks to my pain meds but also thanks to a more restful time.

At 10pm it was time for Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks which were spectacular. Even though we had a pole in front it didn’t bother us. It was so nice seeing all the projections on the castle from almost front on.

We thoroughly enjoyed both the music and the fireworks. When they were done we sat back down for a bit to let the crowds disperse before going to find a spot to watch the parade. We usually watch from up in the front entrance but I thought it might be quieter for us and also more likely for us to find a seat if we headed to Frontier Land (where we have seen parades from in the past). We found an almost perfect spot that was roped off so no-one could stand in front of us and there was a garden fence behind us – which we could lean against. It was opposite the Christmas Shop if anyone wants to know. And we realized just how good a spot it was when we (esp. Christy) had LOTS of character interactions during the parade because there were so few people around us (and no-one behind). Christy loved the parade while Kevin and I did enjoy it, but there little that was new since we last saw it in 2019.

The other thing about this location was that the parade passes by earlier and since it’s much less crowded it’s easy to get around. If we’d been planning to hit a few more rides before the park closed this would be perfect. As it was we decided to browse the shops as we made our way towards to front of the park. Starting with the Christmas store, before making our way to the Main Street stores (the parade was still moving along Main street but people poured in the shops as the parade finished.

It was hard to have a leisurely look but we managed. Kevin was determined to get a Caramel Apple before we left. While we waited for Kevin, Christy and I watched a lady making fairy floss (or candy floss as it’s called here) which was quite fascinating.

One last photo stop

Then the short walk back to Bay Lake Towers (probably the best thing about this resort) and into bed with a cup of tea. I ended up reading until about 2am as I was too awake after such a special evening.