Category: Travel

Today was supposed to be a “rest” day so we had a relaxed morning. Everyone slept as long as they wanted (though I was up about 5am after a good 8 hours sleep),Kevin & Athena went on a Starbucks run, I cooked breakfast including some hash browns and we eventually headed out the door about 9.45 to do some shopping at the Outlet Mall.

Most of the shops we just weren’t interested in but we did visit Kippling (where the kids both got bags and I now regret not getting one), the Disney store (which I was dissapointed in but I guess it just depends what you’re looking for – Athena picked up a few things)…

and Build a bear – loved these cute reindeers…

There we a few other stores before we stopped for a break in the food court. I promptly spotted a sign for a peppermint bark iced choc. I LOVE these so much and we don’t get them in Australia.

I just wanted a small one but it’s probably a medium in Australian sizes so I only drank about half. It was so good.

We then went to sketchers, Forever 21 (where Thee got a few skirts), Crocs (where everyone but myself got some new shoes), Lane Byrant (where I made my first purchase of the day) and finally Bath & Body Works.

I was so excited and pleased to see that Peppermint Twist is still available and pretty much got one of everything in that range. We also got LOTS of the pocket backs – about 30 I think!!

Kevin was kind enough to help carry all the bags.

We left about 1.30pm happy with our purchases. I still can’t believe I bought so little – obviously my new minimism tendencies have stayed with me :-). I know just two years ago I would have bought a lot more things.

We decided to get a quick lunch at Taco Bell which was just across the road. Christy wasn’t feeling the best and we were all keen to get home and have a rest.

I had a vegetarian fiesta salad bowl – which was rather yummy – it had refried beans at the bottom.

Then it was back home to put our feet up for a bit. Kevin was the only one to have a snooze.

Then at 5pm we headed back out for an evening at the Magic Kingdom. We were parked WAY at the back of the lot so Christy and I caught the tram, while Kevin walked with Athena on the scooter.

 

Once again we caught the ferry across and it was lovely seeing the end of the day from the water with all the lights on.

By the time we entered the Magic Kingdom is was full dark.

and VERY busy.

Athena bought a purple Mickey balloon.

And we had our photo taken on Main Street.

We battled the crowds to the Jingle Cruise, which we thankfully had fast passes for.

Cute ride but it was rather hard to hear all the commentary.

With our next fast pass not until 9pm we decided to head over to Tomorrowland in search of burgers (Athena’s request) for dinner. On the way we got the see the transformed castle (we had been too late in arriving to see the Frozen Wishes show at 6.30pm).

Simply stunning.

There was an empty table outside Cosmic Rays which we were able to grab before pulling up the menu on the app and deciding what we wanted to eat. Kevin was then kind enough to go inside and order for everyone. I had the falafel burger (which was really rather yummy for a plain – just had falafel and tatziki on it – fast food burger). Kevin and Athena also had a burger and Christy just had fries.

It’s a Small World had a short wait and it’s one of our favs, so we headed over there to ride.

I don’t think this one ever gets old.

And we love how they know our names (well not Kevin’s). Kevin asked one of the cast members how it was done but the only answer given was “pixie dust” :-).

Mickey’s PhilharMagic also had a short wait. But I didn’t enjoy this as much as I had in the past. Not sure why really.

Athena couldn’t fit in this selfie so we just got their fingers.

Finally it was time we could ride Space Mountain. Athena had to transfer to a wheelchair but no-one warned us it was a LONG walk/push to the ride with uphill and downhill parts. On the downhill part the handle covers of the wheelchair started to come off and there was a bit of panic with trying to get the breaks on so Athena didn’t go hurtling down the ramp. Of course, this brought on a bit of an upset/panic attack. Luckily by the time it came to ride Athena had calmed down and was able to enjoy the ride. I must be getting old because I used to love this so much (dark roller coasters are my favs) but I found it jerky and not as enjoyable to ride.

The noise and crowds were having a big effect on Athena and they were in immense pain so we decided to head out before the fireworks. This meant we hit the crowds on main street but once cleared of the castle end it wasn’t too bad. Christy was in a bad mood at having the miss the fireworks, which meant we left the park with two rather unhappy teenagers. However things worked out and before we got on the ferry we realized we would have a reasonable view of the fireworks (without the crowds and noise) from outside the park. We could still hear the soundtrack and see of the show (just not the castle itself).

As always, the fireworks were incredible and I was happy we got the see them. And not have to deal with the crowds afterwards. So I said, everything worked out and we all got the ferry much happier. Though my feet were in a LOT of pain by now and I was worried about how I’d feel in the morning. It was another trip back across the lagoon looking at all the lights and the castle all lit up. Christy and I once again caught the tram but Athena and Kevin beat us back to the car this time. Then it was back home and swiftly into bed (though Kevin stayed up watching TV for a little while). I read till about 11pm due to being in pain but was eventually able to get to sleep.

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I woke up at 4.30am this morning, which meant I’d only gotten 5 hours sleep at the most. Unfortunately fibro pain meant I was unable to go back to sleep. But it was a good opportunity to get all caught up on blog posts and start editing the first vlog.

Right on time at 8am we set off for Animal Kingdom.

We got through the bag check and ticket gate and only had to wait about 10mins before being allowed to head into the park.

The always amazing Tree of Life.

First ride  was Expeditition Everest. But unfortunately is wasn’t working so after waiting about 15mins we decided to come back later.

The kids then rode the River Rapids. I didn’t feel I would enjoy this ride after the recent tragedy in Australia and Kevin didn’t want to get wet. They had fun though and got to ride twice.

We then headed back to Expedition Everest.

I had forgotten just how amazing this ride is. So fun. We rode once on standby and once using our fastpass.

My touring plan had gone a bit astray by this time so we went to do It’s a Bug Life 3D before Flights of Wonder.

We’d missed this the last few trips so I was keen to see it, but it really wasn’t anything all that special. The main host was VERY hard to understand. I did enjoy seeing the birds though.

By now it was midday and time for some lunch. Even though it was another expensive sit-down meal I really wanted to go to the Yak & Yeti as the menu looking great.

Kevin had ribs, Athena the kids Chicken Teryiki and Christy had the kids mac n cheese. Again, I LOVE that Disney have no problem with all ages ordering off the kids menu. I had vegetable low mein – which was delicious.

We then headed to Dinoland…

to ride Dinosaur. Not my fav. ride but it’s okay.

Kevin really wanted to buy this hat but I wouldn’t let him (guess we’ll be hearing about that for the rest of trip!)

On our way over to the Nemo Musical we bought some Dibs. Don’t know anywhere else to find these and we love them.

The Nemo musical is great. Love how the performers are clearly seen alongside their puppets. So clever.

Then it was time for Primeval Whirl (which we got stuck on on our last trip when it broke down).

Unfortunately we’d all forgotten just how rough the ride is (not really surprising for a mighty mouse type ride) but one go was more than enough and we all vowed not to ride ever again.

I think my expression says it all :-).

We were getting really tired by now (it had been a very hot day at 30C) so while Christy went back to ride Expedition Everest in the single line we checked out a few shops and this guy who was awesome (if anyone knows who he is please let me know)

and saw where the entrance to Pandora will be when it opens next year…

before stopping at the Nomad Lounge.

Such a hidden gem (for now) that you’d be lucky to find if you didn’t know about it. We got some comfy chairs…

and ordered drinks and appetizers from our awesome waiter. Don’t I look relaxed? 🙂

I had the veggie summer rolls – yummy, but almost too spicy for me.

Athena had chicken wings, and Kevin shared some of each.

Christy met us after 3-4 rides and, since Athena wasn’t doing so great, we decided to skip the Safari and head for home. On the way we met Tarzan…

saw a tiny flamingo…

and I posed for this photo since I was wearing my flamingo top :-).

We headed out, with Christy and I once again taking the tram. We were back home about 5pm. I had been wanting to see the nighttime show at Animal Kingdom but was very happy to have a nice relaxing bath instead. My poor feet were sore (I’m sure they are in shock being stood on for so many hours every day) but otherwise my fibro pain is ok (only bad for the first hour or so of the day before my meds kick in) so I’m complaining “too much”.

It was definitely good to have the evening to unwind. Athena fell asleep almost as soon as we got back, only waking up to have some dinner (tonight we shared some Amy’s pizzas). Christy wrote up her trip diary, I edited a vlog and uploaded photos and Kevin watched TV/read facebook. I think I was asleep by 9pm.

Tomorrow is our first “rest” day :-).

This morning I awoke at 6.30am feeling somewhat more refreshed. By 8am we were out the door and on our way to EPCOT.

Our first ride was Spaceship Earth, which opened just after we entered the park. We always enjoy this.

Especially making our own futures at the end. Afterward the kids played a quick “power the city” game.

Then it was onto Mission Space.

I opted out of this one (having ridden before) but the others reported that even the Orange version seemed much tamer than before.

Then it was fastpass time for Test Track (which was reporting a 70min wait).

The kids programmed up their cars (Christy’s ended up being the best performer).

Athena’s…

Christy’s….

Fun times and messy hair

We visited the Mousegears Shop (one of my favs)

on our way to Starbucks as Kevin was really wanting a coffee. However the line was too long, but on our way to Ellen’s Universe of Energy (which we’d planned to skip but Athena really wanted to do) he came across this.

Kevin enjoyed it but didn’t realize it cost him of US$12 !!!!

Universe of Energy was just as I remembered – rather outdated now and since we’ve seen it so many times now, not even very funny.

Time for our lunch reservation at the Rose & Crown.

We have dined here EVERY trip and always love it.

I ordered the Vegetarian Cottage Pie which was delicious.

Kevin got Bangers & Mash, Athena had the kids steak & chips and Christy got Mashed Potatoes (shaped in a Mickey head) and 2 yorkshire puddings. Everyone LOVED their lunch.

Athena also got this awesome looking triffle with the kids meal.

We then wandered through the UK shops, where Kevin actually dozed off in this chair (waiting while Athena did some colouring).

We made a few purchases in the Tea Shop (including a new wallet for myself), then it was on to France.

Of course, Kevin was most excited to finally get the crepes he had been talking about all trip.

I also got some to share with Athena but neither of us were all that impressed and gave most of ours to Kevin. They definitely weren’t as nice as before because they were reheated and not freshly made like they used to be.

Last stop for today was Japan. Anyone who knows EPCOT will realize we missed Canada and Morocco, but we’ll visit them on one of other trips to EPCOT.

Christy has been so excited to visit the store here to see all the Anime stuff but didn’t actually buy anything. I, however, bought some more bowls and plates (I still love the ones I got on our last trip).

Last “ride” of the day was the friendship boats. Haven’t been on these since our first trip in 1999 and know I remember why. Very slow to ride and quick trip across the lagoon. Definitely much quicker to walk but it was nice to give the feet a little rest.

As you can see some clouds were rolling in but we never got any rain.

Time to head out and back to the apartment for a rest.

My feet were VERY sore by this stage but was it was nice to head down to the lazy river and float around in the water for a while. It wasn’t as warm as the pool the other night but was really perfect for a refreshing, relaxing swim.

After doing a few rounds we headed back to our room where I put my feet up and worked on catching up on blog posts.

Shortly after 6pm I heated up some more Amy’s dinners and, after we ate, set off in search on the nearest Super Walmart. But before we’d left the carpark we saw some fireworks going off. Not sure where they were (possibly the Magic Kingdom) but they were lovely.

We had a fun time in Walmart and were there for over 2 hours. However all came out with VERY sore feet.

It was after 10pm by the time we arrived back and got the groceries put away. I made a cup of tea and enjoyed that while blogging. Then it was off to bed, where I read for a bit (not feeling all that tired) before I finally went off to sleep around 11.30pm.

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Finally the day had come to head to the Magic Kingdom. We were up and out the door by 7.45am, taking bagels with us to eat later on (though Kevin had cereal before we left).

Once we parked and headed to the Ticket and Transport center, we caught the ferry – which we think is the nicest way to arrive at the Magic Kingdom for the first time.

And see this view as you arrive – getting your first peek at Cinderella’s Castle.

It was through bag check and the metal detector (for Christy and myself), then waiting for the Welcome show.

Before heading past this sign…

and onto Main Street – which is always stunning, but even moreso when decorated for Christmas.

With the scooter we had a bit of a slow, difficult trip but eventually made it the hub.

Then it was onto Adventureland…

where we spotted the cutest little squirrel,

before heading to our first ride of the day.

This is a definite family favourite.

Next…

Then Splash Mountain

Luckily none of us go too wet.

Then it was a relaxing journey on the Riverboat.

where I tried out my new Pirate ears.

Then another family fav, the Haunted Mansion, which we had a fast pass for.

We then watched Great Moments in History with the Muppets – which is a very cute show.

Before having lunch at the Columbia Harbour House. This trip we are mainly doing quick service dining so will be going to quite a few new us places like this one.

I had the lighthouse sandwich – hummus, coleslaw and tomato sandwich with chips, which was very tasty (though the bread a little dried out). I actually only ate half as I ended up having Christy’s corn cob.

Love the Christmas cups.

We then spent a bit of time wandering around some shops.

Before heading back to ride Big Thunder. The wait earlier had been 25mins and it still was but we had discovered that quite a few rides had seperate lines for the scooter access – which was helpful to Athena as it eliminate standing in line or walking long distances.

Such a fun ride – we all really enjoyed this.

We then made our way back towards the front of the park to find a spot for the parade. Kevin was kind enough to go and find popcorn for me, icecreams for the kids and chocolate banana for himself.

The parade was amazing. One of the best I’ve seen I think.

Flynn Rider has his eye on Athena’s tiara and was flirting with them :-).

And both the rabbit and Alice came up to Athena who was holding her new bunny.

After the parade we went to see Tinkerbelle, which had a 4min waiting time advertised, but we think took about 20mins. She was lovely though and chatted to both the kids.

We then used our fast pass to meet the Talking Mickey Mouse.

Then it was time to head home, quite a bit later than planned. We hopped on the ferry since it was there and just after it left, we realized (thanks to Christy) that Mickey had forgotten to return our autograph books to us. So Athena and I got off and headed back to the car, while Christy and Athena returned to the Magic Kingdom. Kevin used the opportunity to get his third chocolate banana of the day and refill the popcorn container ($1.50 for refills).

Finally we got back to the apartment about 5.30pm and I heated up everyone’s dinner. Later I had a tea (in my new mug) and some Disney shortbread. We all did our own thing (I was downloading photos and working on a blog post) and then headed to bed around 9pm.

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