Christmasing on Long Island

As I drive along Sunrise Highway and listen to the seasonal music pumping from my speakers, I can't help but notice the many symbols of the holiday emblazoning my path.

Almost every city has a tall tree or pole covered in lights and many even light up a menorah and take the time out to make sure they have the appropriate candle lit for the days of Hanukkah. A little attention to detail that goes a long way to remember those of the Jewish faith. The way a town makes sure to include other faiths during Christmas is an important trait of true Christmas spirit. The individuals that argue to keep Christ in Christmas are those who believe they are truly loyal to their faith, however they are acting as a complete contradiction to their religion. The God that I know accepts all people, all beliefs and all cultures. He does not pick and choose who and what to love. He finds a tiny place for every single individual in His heart and His love is omnipresent. It is the same way that Santa Claus finds a moment of his time for every child at midnight on Christmas. He does not discriminate because even if a child is naughty, they still receive the gift of a Christmas lesson that is priceless: treat others as you would like to be treated, for you will ultimately be judged and you will receive what is just deserved.

Unfortunately, with the hustle and bustle at this time of year, people remember their credit cards and forget their manners. And with this year's recession, it is mutual respect, not money, that is more absent than ever. So, when you spot someone rushing through the mall or the parking lot, just take a moment to be thankful that you can savor the joys of the season, and maybe even stop and smell the cocoa. You will be happy you did because Christmas is not about what you buy, it's about what you give, whether it's a donation, a hug, a kiss, a handwritten note, a tray of cookies or a 55" LED TV. You are actually giving someone their smile and showing them you care. So, turn up the sides of your mouth and smile back, that's what Santa and Jesus would do. As a result, you will be filled with the holiday spirit that just might last the whole year through.

An Art Stroll

Today I was in Patchogue again for an art event because the Patchogue Arts Council keeps planning excellent events. I do love art events, free ones. This one was. It was the Walking Arts Tour of Patchogue for the Patchogue Autumn Arts Fest. I couldn't stay for the poets and musicians because of my sister-in-law's birthday dinner, but I was able to partake in the Arts Tour. There were pieces in the windows along Main Street displaying the creations and collections of local artists. There were wool sculptures that were just so impressive that I thought they deserved their own exhibit. The paintings were very interesting and involved, with an array of colors and techniques. There is a new small gallery called C Squared that has an exhibit with a painting of an elephant that I absolutely love. It is very expressive and it was created by an artist named Dan Wooster. The colors that he uses are so bright and vivid but the image of the elephant is so exact that they just pair wonderfully. I really enjoyed viewing the art and am once again glad that it all came to my neighborhood.

WDW Day 8

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Highlights: Hollywood Studios, Downtown Disney, Havana Cuban Cafe

Our last full day in Walt Disney World and we are free to park hop and do whatever we want. So, TK and I went to Hollywood Studios to grab a fast pass for Toy Story Mania and then Downtown Disney for lunch. I checked with Guest Relations to make sure we could check in for our flight prior to lunch and sure enough, we could. So we decided to grab a bite at Earl of Sandwich because he needed to try the Hawaiian BBQ sandwich I had a few days prior because I knew how much he would love it. I had the Earl's Club with cheddar instead of Swiss and it was delicious. I don't think there is a sandwich on their menu that isn't delicious. You can't go wrong. After lunch we checked everyone in for our flight and did a little souvenir shopping for Kaitlyn and TK's work friends. Then we headed back to Hollywood Studios to make sure we get on Toy Story Mania for the last time. We had fun and I lost to TK...again! We returned to the resort to prepare for our last dinner in Orlando and Dad said it was out of the resort area but, we would love it.

When we got to Havana Cuban Cafe, it looked like just a regular restaurant in a strip mall on International Drive but, the food was spectacular. I even got to introduce Cuban food to TK and he loved all of it. CG was reading the menu and came to Mofungo. It is a dish where they use fried plaintains and smash them up with pork grinds and put sauce or chicken or whatever you want on it. We didn't eat it but CG and TK are obsessed with the word and I hear it is actually delicious and fattening, like all tasty things are. They started using Mofungo in every sentence: "The car is parked all the way in Mofungo," "How Mofungo was that ride?", etc. Ridiculous. Anyway, we had a combination plate of delicious fried foods and I had Ropa Vieja which is shredded beef with white rice and red beans. It was all so good, especially with Sangria.

After dinner we all headed to Downtown Disney to have our dessert. At Ghirardelli I ordered a Gold Rush for myself and one for TK because he would not share. The Gold Rush was a delectable mix of vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, peanut butter and whipped cream topped with a peanut butter Ghirardelli chocolate square. It was sheer creamy perfection!

Back at the room, we played cards and sat around a little bit, laughing and joking with each other because we knew it would be our last night all together and we really cherish the fun we all have. I wouldn't trade family vacations for anything.

The next day we were going to get on our flight to leave the happiest place on earth and I knew it would be another heartbreaker for me. It always is. So, our Disney family vacation of 2009 was over. We had a lot of fun but, it went way too fast and I want to go back already...

THE END

("See ya real soon!")

WDW Day 7

Friday, August 21, 2009
Highlights: Disney's Hollywood Studios, House of Blues, Downtown Disney, Ghirardelli

The number one objective for Hollywood Studios was to ride Toy Story Mania before all the fast passes ran out. We entered the park and headed straight for the attraction in Pixar Place. There was an enormous line just to get fast passes and they limited it to one person per party to obtain them. Of course, that was me. Who else cares that much? So, fast passes were pocketed and some of us headed to Rockin' Rollercoaster to get it in early and the others rode the Great Movie Ride. I really love the speed of the initial blast off and the fact that the whole ride runs with a soundtrack. I wonder if "Love in an Elevator" is the only song that plays while you ride?? (Let me know.) It is my favorite coaster for that reason. Afterward, we went to Starring Rolls Cafe to grab a quick bite because us youngsters did not have breakfast. The chocolate muffin was yummo. Then we all headed to the Chronicles of Narnia attraction which was a big waste of time even though I like the movie. Then we decided to head through One Man's Dream that we all love because it reminds us where Walt Disney World came from and shows us the man behind all that makes us happy. The Magic of Disney Animation is a favorite too because I am an artist even though I do not play one on TV. I wanted to be a cartoonist when I was a kid and now I just do graphic design and draw here and there. We got to see a trailer for Disney's next animated feature, "The Princess and the Frog," and it looks good. I have a profound appreciation for the art of Disney. It is still a dream of mine to create for them. So, after dreaming and being awe-inspired, we headed to American Idol Experience to check out this new attraction. Of the three people that performed, the girl who won was the best. It was cool to vote and be closer to the process than you are at home. After the show we headed to Toy Story Mania to finally ride and it was awesome. We all had so much fun. Then we headed to Muppetvision 3-D and then to Pizza Planet for lunch. After lunch CG, TK and I tried to get on Rockin' Rollercoaster again and the parents all went to the Backlot Tour. Of course the wait was too long so, we enjoyed shakes at Min & Bill's. Finally, we decided to go back to the resort and the parents went to see the Beauty and the Beast show.

At the resort, we relaxed and then got ready for our dinner reservation at House of Blues. We took the bus to Downtown Disney and it started to pour so, we all put ponchos over our heads and made it to House of Blues with minimal damage to our ensembles. To begin, I had a Flirtarita and shared the crab and artichoke dip with Mom. Then for my entree I had a Cobb salad which was enormous. After dinner we trekked back through West Side, Pleasure Island and Downtown Disney until we got to the World of Disney Store. I really wanted to ride Characters in Flight but the weather would not permit it. While walking around the store aimlessly, I realized I didn't see anyone I was with and headed back to the room. We closed out the night by playing a little cards. The next day was going to be a free-for-all so there was no particular time we had to awaken.

WDW Day 6

Thursday, August 20
Highlights: Magic Kingdom, Tony's Town Square Restaurant, Epcot

My family took my advice and did not head to Magic Kingdom during a weekend or at the beginning of the week because that is when I heard everyone else goes. Well, I was slightly correct. When we got into the park, we headed straight for fast passes for Thunder Mountain Railroad. I always miss it because the wait is always so long. Then we headed over to The Hall of Presidents and it was amazing to see the likeness that the imagineers created for Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama. It was really moving. After the show we went to the Haunted Mansion and I laughed and fake screamed the whole time. TK knocked on AR and UG's doom buggy to frighten AR, and he did. It was a lot of fun. After leaving Liberty Square, we headed to the Country Bear Jamboree to see if the we could waste some time before our fast passes were ready. It was cute but it needs a slight update. Then we headed to Splash Mountain to wait on line to get soaked. We always get pretty wet and enjoy seeing who got the wettest. We made ridiculous faces when the photo was taken before the plunge. I just love the song, "How do u do! Pretty good sure as your born!" After getting drenched and not being able to save our silly picture to our photo pass, we headed over to Thunder Mountain to use our passes. With Space Mountain closed, we had to make sure we rode this coaster. Riding with TK is not as bad as riding with my brother. When we were younger he would squash me against the side with every turn of the train. I think I felt my ribs touch in the center at one point. When we were finished riding, we headed over to Fantasyland and watched TK, CG and Mom spin in the teacups. They were making me nauseous just watching them spin. Mom loves it though, I don't really get it. I did enjoy the soft pretzel I had in the meantime though. All of the rides in Fantasyland had too long of a wait so we traveled to Adventureland for the Tiki Room, which I love, and Pirates of the Caribbean, which I love the most. I am a BIG fan of pirates, fact and fiction. That ride has the best queue too with the cool dark cement caves and flickering lanterns. It is perfectly themed. We got pretty embarrassed on the ride because we got stuck under Davy Jones and held up a whole line of boats. Oops! By the time we got out of Pirates, it was time for a snack so we got ourselves some Dole Whips and they are the BEST dessert in all of WDW. Cool, refreshing and pineapple...perfect. After our treat we had to head to Tomorrowland and try to gain some fast passes for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin. That is a family favorite. While we waited, we took a rest in the Carousel of Progress. "It's a great big beautiful tomorrow, shining at the end of every day!" Another song that gets lodged in my head after a visit to Magic Kingdom but, I love it! Then we walked right into the Laugh Floor Comedy Club. We sat in the front row and the show was really funny. When we were done laughing, we headed back to Buzz Lightyear and took our Space Ranger Spin. TK always kicks everyone's tail. I think he cheats because he turns the car just as I am shooting Zurg. It is just not fair!

By the time we were done playing around, it was time for our lunch reservation at Tony's Town Square Restaurant in the front of the park. We had never eaten there before so we were excited to find out what it was like. It was themed after Lady & the Tramp and serves Italian food. For starters, I had the cheesy bread with bruschetta and tasted AR's cream of tomato soup. Both were very good. Then I had the shrimp scampi but it was a bit under-seasoned so I was satisfied but not delighted. Then for dessert, I shared the ice cream bomb with TK and it was a great ending to a good meal. Mom's dessert was more interesting because there was a picture of Lady & the Tramp made of chocolate dust on her plate. Nice touch!

After lunch, we left and went back to the resort. We got refreshed and headed back to Magic Kingdom to squeeze in some last minute rides. We were able to see Mickey's Philharmagic, It's a Small World and took a ride on the Tomorrowland Speedway. Then...it started to thunder and lightning. I wasn't too effected but the Spectromagic Parade and Wishes Fireworks Spectacular were. We headed back through the stores, which were packed, to get to the front of the park. No fireworks this vacation...darn!

When we got back to the resort, I decided I would head back to Epcot for extra magic hours by myself. So, I sat at the bus stop as bus after bus passed by and then...here comes Dad. He didn't want me to have to walk around Epcot alone so he kept me company. The bus finally came and we made our way around the countries first stopping at Mexico to ride the Gran Fiesta Tour practically alone and then continued through the countries to ride Maelstrom in Norway. It was nice to spend some time with my Dad alone. That usually doesn't happen on a family vacation of 9+. We got back pretty late and went straight to bed. Tomorrow we are heading to Hollywood Studios pretty early. Ready to ride my favorite...

WDW Day 5

Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Highlights: Animal Kingdom, Tusker House, Fantasia Gardens mini golf, Artist's Palette

No more relaxation. We were heading to Animal Kingdom and for early extra magic hours. When we got in, the turnstiles were broken so there was a very large crowd gathering at the entrance of the park. They dealt with the problem rather quickly and before we knew it, we were in and making our way around Discovery Island. We headed straight for Expedition Everest to get our fast passes and were actually able to get more than we needed because half of my family was not interested in riding. After that we took a ride and said "Jambo" at Kilimanjaro Safaris. It was early in the morning so I was hoping we would see more animals than we would later in the day. Sure enough, I was right! I got a bunch of good photos of elephants, giraffes, Thompson's gazelle and a lazy warthog, among others. The safari is always a family favorite. Afterward, we headed back to Expedition Everest to ride twice. I got a little queezy going backwards the second time but was a trooper. After riding, we headed to Finding Nemo - The Musical to meet the rest of our family. They were already sitting in the crisp air-conditioned auditorium so we found some room next to them and were ready for the show. The costumes and scenery had such vibrant colors and the puppets were so animated. It was Dad, Mom, AR and UG's first time seeing it and they really were pleased. After the show, I needed food. We had burgers at Restaurantosaurus and they really hit the spot. Then we hit Dinosaur, Festival of the Lion King and It's Tough to be a Bug. Then we decided to walk through Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and view Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade before our reservation at Tusker House. It is the first Disney parade I have actually seen in a few years.

At Tusker House, Dad made a lot of disappointed noises while eating. He is really not into the African food that they serve there. I liked some of it but would have rather eaten at Boma or Jiko. The hummus was a little too watery for my liking but I had a bottle of Safari Amber that I could only get at Animal Kingdom or AK Lodge so, that was pretty special. With that, Animal Kingdom came to a close and without riding Kali River Rapids, unfortunately.

Back at the room, I passed out for a little bit on the couch but got up with enough time for TK and I to go play mini-golf at Fantasia Gardens. We played the fairways course and it was HARD. I wasn't expecting to win and almost had a temper tantrum because I was not playing up to par, pun intended. After a hurtful loss, we headed back to the resort and I took a walk down to Artist's Palette to scoop up a snack for TK and I. I got TK a chicken and artichoke flat-bread and myself a pepperoni flat-bread and refilled my refillable mug with Coke Zero. I even got a free sugar cookie because our flat-breads took way too long and one of the chefs felt bad for me. After my walk back to the room with heat lightning darting across the sky, we ate and headed to bed. Tomorrow we are going to Magic Kingdom with another wonderful time to be had.

WDW Day 4

Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Highlights: Saratoga Springs Spa, Downtown Disney, Spirit of Aloha Luau

It is a great feeling when you wake up in the morning and know you are headed to a spa to get pampered and have the ability to concentrate on your personal health and wellness. That is how Tuesday began. Mom, AR and I headed to the spa for our appointment to relax and revitalize and TK, Dad, UG and CG headed to play golf at Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. Mom and AR were receiving the Disney Vacation Club package that included a massage, a facial, a pedicure and a manicure. I signed up for the Mystical Forest Therapy which included a massage and reflexology. We were shown to our lockers and changed into the robes and slippers provided for us. Then we went to the lounge to wait for our separate appointments. My massage was nice. She covered my back, neck and head. Then she started on the reflexology which focuses on your feet. I felt bad for Amanda, who was my masseuse because she had to rub my feet after a day at Epcot and a day at Typhoon Lagoon. My piggies were not looking or feeling their best. She used a special Mystical Forest Lotion that smelled like mint and a garden after it had rained. She even gave me the remainder in a little cup so I could use it for the next few days. After my services were done I went back to the locker room to wait for Mom and AR to finish. I knew it would be about an hour until they were done so I put my bathing suit on and enjoyed the sauna (so hot), steam room (could barely breathe) and the jacuzzi (lovely). I enjoyed each twice and showered before I went in the jacuzzi each time. Then I sat on a chaise lounge with a magazine about rich Floridians and pretended I could afford to visit the spa once a week. One can dream, especially in Disney. Finally the ladies were done and I showered for the last time, washed my hair, did my hair and got ready to go, using all of their complementary toiletries of course. Then we headed back to our respective rooms to drop off our bathing suits and prepare for a little visit to Downtown Disney.

We walked to Downtown Disney and stopped at the Earl of Sandwich for lunch first. I got the Hawaiian BBQ sandwich and it came with grilled chicken, ham, pineapple, cheddar cheese (because I hate Swiss) and barbecue sauce. It was sooooo delicious. I also got a Strongbow cider to wash it down because I just love that stuff. It was pretty inexpensive for the sandwich but I had to be crazy and add an alcoholic beverage and a bag of salt and vinegar potato chips to it so it got a little more pricey. Then we trolled around the shops and found ourselves heading into Ghirardelli for a little ice cream. We weren't hungry enough for a sundae so we all got cones and kept walking. I had Rocky Road and it had real mini-marshmallows in it. The only negative was that it started melting immediately after exiting the ice cream shop. It even dripped on my flip flops at one point. Oops!

When we returned to the room, the guys were already there and we all started to get ready for the luau. We were all decked out in Hawaiian gear. TK and I even had ensembles straight from our Hawaiian honeymoon. When we got to the Polynesian resort I was excited to cross an item off of my life list: Drink a cocktail out of an actual pineapple. They sell a drink at the Tambu Lounge in the Polynesian resort called Lapu Lapu that is served in a pineapple. TK and I bought one for everyone which cost us a small fortune (even with the Tables in Wonderland discount) and then we all headed to the luau pavilion. We received itchy yellow flower leis, which I inherited from the rest of my family because they couldn't take the itchiness around their necks, and took a family photo upon walking in. I completely loved the show and the food. The pineapple bread was so soft and sweet and the salad was so tart and tangy that I would have been content eating them all night but knew that the ribs were on their way. The ribs were moist and delicious, much better than the ribs we had prior at Whispering Canyon. We also had veggies, chicken and rice. I enjoyed the fact that the Bud Light was all you could drink and did just that. The dessert was a little volcano called a Kilauea Volcano Delight and a delight it was not. I was not a fan. The show was great though and I strategically went to the bathroom at the exact time they asked if there were any couples celebrating an anniversary. I have gotten pretty good at avoiding eye contact at attractions as to not get chosen to participate in any embarrassing stunts. CG actually called me on it during the luau but it still worked. I saw an actual Hawaiian luau in Maui on my honeymoon and enjoyed Disney's version slightly more. I mean it was amazing just being in Maui but Disney just made their luau more fun. So, after the luau and the numerous photos in front of the Polynesian foliage, we headed back to the room to get to bed before our next day at Animal Kingdom. Aloha!!

WDW Day 3

Monday, August 17, 2009

Highlights: Contempo Cafe, Fishing, Typhoon Lagoon, Maya Grill

We woke today and headed to the Contemporary Resort. We had a fishing reservation but had to eat breakfast first. My family doesn't miss a meal. We went to the Contemporary Cafe (annoyed they didn't accept our Tables in Wonderland card) and I had waffles with caramel and bananas. Delicious! Then we went outside to the marina to wait for our boats. TK, CG, and I started chatting with one of the guides and we knew she wanted to hang with us and not the older folks. So we boarded our boats and let the challenge begin ... parents vs. kids. The trip was fun because our guide was a down-to-earth professional angler and I pet a wild bird who hung out on our boat for a little bit. We ended up not actually winning but, I am not sure if my Mom counted the turtle she hooked as a fish. Poor thing ...

After fishing, TK and CG headed back to the resort, and the rest of us headed to Typhoon Lagoon. By this time, the park was packed and hot. We started out by scoping out a spot and then we hit the lazy river. I asked a cast member where I could find an opening to the river and after I got my answer, he sprayed me with his water bottle. Funny way to flirt with a married woman that was dressed like a lifeguard but, whatever works for you. The lazy river was fun, but definitely not lazy. UG was pushing me under waterfalls and Dad was spinning me around and bumping me into Mom. After all that laziness, I was starving so Mom and I went to grab some lunch. I had a yummy chicken wrap and skipped the fries. Then we headed into the wave pool for a bit. My Dad loves it and UG always swims way too far in. I, on the other hand, always get punched when I duck under the waves. When we had enough, we decided to hit the Crush N Gusher and then head out. Dad, UG, and I went to wait in line and picked up a three-person tube on the way up. When we got up to the top the cast member told us to get in the tube with the lightest in the front and the heaviest in the back and after that, we knew we were going to fly through the ride. And, we did. I thought we were going to tip over at every turn, but had a great time. It was Dad's first time on it and he loved it. We then reconvened with everyone else at the lockers and left the park.

When we arrived at the resort, TK and CG were heading out to the pro shop to hit some golf balls. I went up to the room and got ready for dinner. We had a reservation at the Maya Grill in Coronado Springs. We all got dressed and headed to Downtown Disney to catch a bus to Coronado Springs. TK and CG got to Coronado Springs before we did because there were a few too many stops to bear before we got there. I had the Caesar salad to start and it was like a romaine heart with dressing. It was one of the best salads I have ever had. Then I had a seafood platter and the Churro dessert with vanilla ice cream. Everything was good but the salad was the highlight. After dinner, we headed back to the resort to relax and get ready for the day to follow. Tomorrow is our spa day ...

WDW Day 2

Sunday, August 16

Highlights: Epcot, Whispering Canyon Cafe

Up early on a weekend to head to Epcot Center. One of my favorites. We took the bus to the park for Extra Magic Hours and started at Future World. We made sure to head to Spaceship Earth first because it had been refurbished and I cannot remember the last time we actually rode it. We enjoyed the end when our photos got placed on cartoons that we could email to ourselves. Then we scooped up fast passes for Test Track but headed to Soarin'. I do love that ride but didn't wear flip-flops so the wind couldn't blow through my toes. The scents and the breeze are my favorite parts of that ride. 

Then we headed back to the other side of Future World and did Energy, Mission Space, and by that time, our fast passes were ready for Test Track. We were done with all of Future World that we cared about by 1 p.m. and were shocked. So then we traveled to the countries, which I love.

We started from Mexico but just viewed the countries from the outside because we were starving. My Dad said we never ate lunch in the countries and decided on China for our midday meal (I would have chosen the Electric Umbrella if anyone asked me, but have to branch out). I ordered the vegetable stir-fry and was very displeased. Tofu lovers would be happy with this dish but I think tofu tastes like a dish sponge so I was not a fan. Good thing Mom got a funnel cake in the U.S. and AR got a Grand Marnier smoothy in France. I mooched off of both. My Dad actually saw a friend of his from back in NY while in France. What are the chances? The only country attraction we partook in was America and we saw the Voices of Liberty while we waited for the show to begin. They can make some crazy faces while singing but have very beautiful and powerful voices. I enjoy their rendition of Oh Susanna when they make banjo noises with their mouths. It is great. Then the American Adventure show made me get a little misty, especially when I saw the images of 9-11. Good thing it was dark in there or I would have been made fun of. 

After America, we walked through the other countries and did a little shopping. We stopped at the Rose & Crown, of course. I love it there. I ordered a Cider & Black because I love Strongbow, TK ordered a Black & Tan, and UG, CG, and Dad ordered beers. We never eat there, but we do drink! After we finished our beers, we headed to Innoventions to see if the characters were there for our Disney Visa photo shoot, and THEY WERE! We took pictures with Mickey and Pluto, and they even made TK get down on one knee like he was proposing to me ... again. He was embarrassed. Then we left the park to return to our resort.

After relaxing for a little bit, we got ready for dinner and headed to the Wilderness Lodge. I had never been there but knew exactly what I wanted to see when I walked in: the humongous fireplace, Humphrey the Bear at the bottom of the totem pole so I could rub his nose, and the Fire Rock Geyser. I checked in at the podium and waited forever, but that just meant I had enough time to sightsee and to build my ravenous hunger. After sitting on a rocking chair in front of the fireplace for a bit, TK and I took a walk to see the geyser and it went off just two minutes after we got over there. I felt kind of lucky. The Wilderness Lodge is just immense and amazing. It is a huge atrium with wood carvings, dark fabrics, and a rock formation pool. If I had the money, I would choose to stay there. Then, my pager went off.

We ordered our drinks, which came in a mason jar, and the skillet. It began with a bowl of salad, cole slaw, and cornbread. The salad had a wonderfully tart vinaigrette dressing that I really enjoyed. Then they brought the big bowl of meat. It had pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and chicken. The pulled pork was my favorite and the ribs weren't messy enough for me. The skillet also came with beans and mashed potatoes. TK is a mashed potato aficionado and he thought they were some of the best he has ever had. Then the games began. CG asked for one too many sodas so the waitress brought him a huge jug of Coke Zero. Then he tossed AM's fork on the floor and the waitress brought over a huge wooden fork. We were cracking up but were prepared for the antics. After we filled our bellies and said, "see y'all" to the Wilderness Lodge, we returned to our room and played cards well into the night. Tomorrow we are going fishing.

Disney Trip Report

It has been a week and a half since I returned from Florida and Walt Disney World. It just went too fast because we only stayed for eight days. We had a great time and laughed a lot. Read on to find out what we did every day. Here is my first installment...

Participants:

TK = My husband

Mom

Dad

AR = Aunt Rosie

UG = Uncle George

CG = Cousin George
AA = Aunt Annie
AM = Aunt Marie

Saturday, August 15

Highlights: Saratoga Springs, Turf Club, Jellyrolls

Our flight was pretty early to Orlando so when we arrived it was about 11 a.m. We went on the Magical Express and left our bags for the ME to collect for us. We headed straight to Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa to check in and see when our room would be ready. None of our family was there yet. Our room was not ready so we decided to go to the Artist's Palette and have lunch. I had the Toga Wrap and New England Clam Chowder. The chowder was watery but the wrap was delicious, so I made a mental note that if we had to eat lunch at the resort again, I would repeat this experience. We purchased the refillable mugs, which we bought at a discount because my Dad is a Tables in Wonderland dining discount cardholder. Big plus! 

Another big plus was the appearance of Coke Zero as a choice of beverage. Then we changed into our bathing suits, which we wisely stowed in our carry-ons, and enjoyed the High Rock Springs main pool. It is a rocky zero-entry pool with a slide. I went down the slide and my dad waited for me at the end. All of the other parents were gathered around waiting to see their children come down and here I came, almost 30 years old. It was fun though! Then my mother and I took a dip in the jacuzzi. TK wouldn't go in the pool because he was relaxing, so he decided we should get a drink up at the pool bar. Then Dad told us that UG and AR arrived, so we headed back to the lobby to greet them. They were able to get their room and I was able to transfer mine and TK's tickets to our room key so we only had to carry around one card. So, we waited for our room to be ready in UG and AR's room. We got to see what our two-bedroom suite looked like and I listened to my iPod chock full of Disney songs while I sat on the balcony. 

We finally got our room and our luggage so we could get ready to go to our dinner reservation at Turf Club Bar & Grill, which was located in our resort. At dinner, I shared the steamed mussels and tomato bisque appetizer with TK. It had the right amount of tang and creaminess, and the goat cheese was a great touch. For my entree, I had prime rib which was very moist and Yukon mashed potatoes which were tasty. After dinner, TK and I ordered the apple pie dessert and then we headed to Jellyrolls at the Boardwalk Resort. It is a dueling pianos bar where the audience can request songs and sing along to well-known tunes. TK kept telling me to request ridiculous songs like One by Metallica and Bawitaba by Kid Rock. I had just arrived at Disney so, I decided to wait a little while before being embarrassed. They played the Unicorn Dance song and everyone got up like they knew the words and the dance but, I just improvised. A bunch of my family members ordered some Sex on the Beach drink that was 32 ounces and looked like it came in a bucket. I just ordered a few Blue Moons. When they discovered the drink was too sweet, they kept pouring it into my AM's cup when she wasn't looking. She wondered how her drink was so full and walked in a zig-zag to the bathroom as we giggled watching her. So the jokes and antics began ...We went "home" soon after I had scream-sang to enough songs to give TK a headache. We were ready to get to the parks the next day with Epcot first on the list.

Quite Meticulous

I am in the process of packing for my upcoming vacation. The packing method for me is a pretty lengthy one. It actually starts months in advance. Here are the steps I take to prepare myself for some time away:

1. When I know a big trip is coming up, I start going on websites, like WalMart.com, and start requesting samples for shampoo, conditioner, lotion, detergent, etc. This helps because I hate filling up little travel bottles with the shampoo and conditioner that I use on a daily basis and these samples are free! I collect them in labeled Ziplock bags in my linen closet and then pack enough to last me my entire vacation.

2. A couple of months before the trip, I start looking on clearance racks for clothing. This includes tanks, shorts, skirts, etc. It is best to shop for these items when the back-to-school items first come out because stores are trying to get rid of their summer stuff. I save these items in a plastic bag in my closet until it is time to pack them.

3. Then, the actual packing starts a couple of weeks before the trip. I make lists of bottoms and tops and match them up to my itinerary to see what I want to wear on what day for what activity. Usually, I have a day outfit and a night outfit because when I travel to places with hot or humid weather, I have to shower midday to doll myself up for the night.

4. Then, I make a spreadsheet that includes the itinerary, the outfits and a check box to make sure each item is packed on the list. After all outfits are scheduled for their appropriate day, I iron them all and pack them chronologically, with the first outfits of the week on top and the following days' outfits underneath, in order of appearance. This is just in case I do not take my clothing out of my suitcase the entire trip so I do not wrinkle anything searching through my packed items for that day's outfit. Pajamas are not put in order though. They are paired top with bottom and folded in the corner of the suitcase, un-ironed. Also, undergarments and bathing suits are tucked into the pockets of the suitcase to be grabbed at will.

5. Then the toiletries are packed in my toiletry case, with some things in Ziploc bags so they do not leak (The samples included). The toiletry case also gets all of my jewelry, which is mostly fake and cheap because I wear the expensive stuff on my person when I travel.

6. Then I make sure I have my bag that I will take on the plane all set with a book, my iPod, magazines (but I usually buy these at the airport), gum for motion sickness, socks (for when my feet get cold on the plane), a sweatshirt and playing cards. This year I will have to pack a bathing suit in my carry-on as well because our luggage may not arrive in our room as scheduled. I actually have a Vera Bradley rolling duffle for all this fun stuff, with matching travel organizer and toiletry pouch.

7. Repeat steps 1-6 for TK. I have samples of deodorant, shave lotion, etc. for him as well.

I know this all seems like an insane and scrupulous process but, it is what keeps me from getting severely unhinged when I am on vacation and trying to have the time of my life. It also saves time while I am on vacation so I do not have to worry about wasting time looking for something when I could be out the door in a jiff!

Presently, I am up to step 4 with less than a week to go so, I've got time.

Misty for Disney

I belong to a group called All Ears that is through Yahoo! Groups where I get all of the information on Walt Disney World and Disneyland through moderators and participants. They have a website too that is chock full of Disney information (www.allearsnet.com) and it is one of my favorite sites to visit whether I am going to Disney or not. I am obsessed.

Well, recently, there have been a lot of posts relating to Disney cast members going above and beyond for guests. I found myself getting a little misty reading some of the stories. It just shows that despite all of the incidents and accidents in the news lately, Disney is keeping its magic alive.

For instance, there was a post about a man whose child slipped and fell on the way to the restroom at the Rainforest Cafe. He said she was screaming her head off and some cast members came to her rescue and called an ambulance. The paramedics determined that the little girl just had a bruise on her forehead so, the manager of the restaurant asked the little girl if she wanted to go to the doctor or eat some food. She chose food and he gave her a tiara and a wand because he overheard the family discussing the little girl's birthday meal she would be having at Cinderella Castle the following day. Then the manager sat them without a wait next to the animatronic gorillas so that the little girl could see them move every time it "rained. He also checked on them repeatedly during their meal. The manager even told her that Cinderella was anxiously awaiting her visit! With that news, the little girl forgot all about her little accident and just imagined the princess waiting in the castle for her to show up.

It is stuff like this that keeps me going back to Disney every chance I get. Not only do you get to be the child you keep inside, but you get to feel the excitement and the magic that Disney is famous for. It warms the hearts of many. Even my dad, who shares my love for Disney and is pictured above with the castle at Magic Kingdom.

18 days until I am there again. It will be my 13th time.

My Shiny New Bike

Saturday morning, I ran out to do a few things but when I returned, my hub was actually awake and told me he had a surprise for me. He said he felt bad that I haven't bought anything for myself in a while and wanted to buy me something I would really enjoy. So, we headed out. He slowed down in one area while driving because he wanted to go into a store that was no longer there. Just our luck! So, he kind of had to tell me what he wanted to get me because he didn't know where else to find it. He said he wanted to buy me a mountain bike! So we went to a bike shop that wasn't too far away and picked out a nice, new, shiny, red, expensive Raleigh mountain bike. It is really nice. I may need to adjust it a little bit but it is great. I took it out yesterday for about an hour, just riding up and down the streets in my development. It is meant for like 70% street and 30% trails, which is what I will be doing. I enjoy it immensely and it is another way to exercise my excessively large rear. Also, do I need a helmet? I haven't worn a helmet on a bike ever. I just figure, if I am dumb enough to fall off of it by doing something I shouldn't be doing, then I deserve to get hurt. I still have to get completely comfortable on it because I haven't ridden a bike in almost 20 years. But, it is true, riding a bike is like riding a bike.

"A 20/20 Vision of Our Diverse Society"

Last night, John Quinones, from ABC's "20/20" and "What Would You Do?," spoke at St. Joseph's College and it was very interesting and insightful. He made remarks about racism and ignorance and how people had a genuine lack of respect for one another that he feels is actually improving now with Obama's presidency. He feels that people are communicating more because our president is communicating more. However, according to his show, "What Would You Do?" people have a blatant disregard for those who are in distress. They have a hidden camera show that deals with ethical dilemmas and whether or not people will come to a person's aid or walk on by. Quinones even showed a clip of the show and it was pretty disappointing and then heartwarming. It made a few people in the audience cry, not me but, a few people. There was an instance of an actor who played a homeless man who collapsed on the sidewalk. People just walked on by, they counted 86 passersby. Then a homeless woman with a cane walked right on up and asked people to use their cell phone to call 911 for the man. 24 more people passed until one woman did what she had asked. It was touching how kind the woman was and so many viewers were inspired by her that ABC gave her a home and the medication she needs to live. They even started a Facebook page in her honor.

Quinones made you think about what you are doing to help those around you and if you have the ability to be someone's hero. I was slightly disappointed in myself because I wasn't sure if I could step in front of a stranger with a bat to stop him from hitting another person out of fear but, what if that person would die from their injuries and I was the only one who could stop it? It is a really difficult scenario but, I do hope that if it came to stepping up or not that I will and I will be proud of myself for doing so. I had his book, "Heroes Among Us" signed by him and he wrote, "Be a hero." I just hope that maybe, one day, I can be.

I am a travelin' woman!

So, I love traveling. I have never been to Europe but it is on my list. I love to experience new things, see new sights and taste new food. By new I mean, new to me. People have probably been eating some of the things I have just tried for hundreds of years but I have been ignorant to it. Like poi for instance, I ate some while in Maui and it was actually a nice addition to marinated steak. As for sightseeing, I was excited to see Alcatraz and Fisherman's Wharf in 2005 when we took a trip to San Francisco. I am a real seaside type of person. I am a fan of the small towns on the water and that is why I enjoy the Hamptons. There are galleries, museums, shops, restaurants and gardens. It is just cute and quaint. I do not enjoy snobby people but that is a rare few who think they are better than everyone else. There are a lot of people who are just making a living or enjoying their summer on Long Island.

This year, like I think I have said in a prior post, I will be heading to Walt Disney World with my husband and family. I cannot wait. I have been researching and organizing the information I have for the trip. I am like a Disney encyclopedia by now because I have already read 3 tour books and one dining guide. I am prepared and I do not even know who is going yet...I just know that I am.

Sorry if I get a little winey...

Tonight I went to a wine tasting party and tried to buy a bottle of wine because I love it so much but the lady didn't have what I wanted in stock. Aw well! I learned a lot about tasting, like what to do when tasting a wine for the first time. First, you hold the glass up to check out the color and guess when the wine was bottled. Then you hold the glass to the side to check its legs, which ultimately tells you the extent of the alcohol content. Then you smell the wine by sticking your entire nose into the glass. Then you sip the wine and swirl it around your tongue to get the real taste of it.

I find it amazing that most wine comes from grapes but they all taste very different according to the other ingredients and fermenting process. Also, supposedly wine tastes bitter when you eat a grape first and then sip the wine. I didn't seem to mind though. Even though I enjoy a sweeter bottle of wine, like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, I will drink whatever is around because I like to try new things. I also like to taste different food with wine to see how the taste of the wine changes. It is all very interesting and slightly intoxicating so the intelligent conclusions that I come up with does escape me after one too many. Oops!

Oh, it started at a young age

Today, while reading posts from the Disney listserv I belong to, they asked an interesting question: What actual moment did you fall in love with Disney?

To which I answered, with Disney geek acronyms:

My mother could probably answer this better than I but, I believe I first fell in love with Disney when I was about 3 years old. My Poppy (my mother's father) taped all of the Silly Symphonies for us to watch and I would just play it over and over and then I would put Snow White in the equation and that would be on repeat as well. At 3, I had already taken over the living room along with my pal Disney. I was obsessed and still am at 28.

I feel that Disney has always been a part of my life and my parents are to blame. They had their honeymoon in WDW in 1976 and stayed at the Contemporary. My older brother's first stuffed animal was an odd looking Winnie the Pooh that they purchased during that trip. In 2007, my husband and I got engaged in Cinderella Castle. Just this December, my parents and aunt and uncle just became DVC members. We are going again in August and I cannot wait. I know there are plenty of things I have not done yet. So, to date, I have been to WDW 12 times and Disneyland once. We also have plans to travel to the new DVC property in Hawaii in 2011. I know everyone will laugh at me because I still travel with my parents on vacations at 28 years old but that is what Disney means to me. It is all about family and not having to be a grown up.

I can't pinpoint a date and time but, I know how it all began...