I have posted a video of green house section of the land. I’ve always loved The Land and it’s easy to see why when you watch this video. I find all of the technology they use to be fascinating and often wonder why it’s not used elsewhere. However, if you have an aero garden you are using some of the very technology used at the Land.
The video was taken in December 2008 and can be viewed HERE.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Epcot Runs Out of Nachos
Disney cast members are trying to figure out what has caused the sudden surge in nacho orders at the quick service location in the Mexico Pavilion. Orders have more then tripled in two weeks causing the location to run out of nachos, infuriating patrons.
“It’s really odd. People have been inconsolable when they find out we’re out of nachos. It’s like someone brain washed them into thinking they can’t live without them,” stated a cast member who works at the pavilion.
We’ve had few cases of people trying to drown themselves in the lagoon when we inform them we’re out of nachos. One guy even tied himself to the Illuminations barge,” stated another cast member.
Experts have been offering theories on what is causing this odd behavior. The most popular theories are:
The nachos are laced with an addictive drug.
Mike Newell brain washed all Mouse World Radio listeners with his mind control software into thinking they need nachos.
There is a new flu that makes people want nachos really bad.
Compounding the problem is the fact that the WDW Today podcast has labeled the nachos as one of the best quick service meals available despite the fact that Mike Newell nearly died after eating them (the 20 pounds of food he ate after the nachos had nothing to do with it).
Due to the nacho shortage a nacho black market has sprung up. Members of the WDW Mafia have been reportedly selling nachos for upwards of $50 a pound. Further proof of their involvement was provided when Buzz Lightyear and his friend Woody ended up in the hospital after a nacho deal gone bad.
Regardless of the cause, Disney has increased their supply orders and hope to catch up to demand within a few weeks.
“It’s really odd. People have been inconsolable when they find out we’re out of nachos. It’s like someone brain washed them into thinking they can’t live without them,” stated a cast member who works at the pavilion.
We’ve had few cases of people trying to drown themselves in the lagoon when we inform them we’re out of nachos. One guy even tied himself to the Illuminations barge,” stated another cast member.
Experts have been offering theories on what is causing this odd behavior. The most popular theories are:
The nachos are laced with an addictive drug.
Mike Newell brain washed all Mouse World Radio listeners with his mind control software into thinking they need nachos.
There is a new flu that makes people want nachos really bad.
Compounding the problem is the fact that the WDW Today podcast has labeled the nachos as one of the best quick service meals available despite the fact that Mike Newell nearly died after eating them (the 20 pounds of food he ate after the nachos had nothing to do with it).
Due to the nacho shortage a nacho black market has sprung up. Members of the WDW Mafia have been reportedly selling nachos for upwards of $50 a pound. Further proof of their involvement was provided when Buzz Lightyear and his friend Woody ended up in the hospital after a nacho deal gone bad.
Regardless of the cause, Disney has increased their supply orders and hope to catch up to demand within a few weeks.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Captain EO
It’s hard to imagine that Michael Jackson is dead. Then again he wasn’t what I’d call healthy, for a long time.
When I was a kid I had Thriller on an actual record. It’s hard to imagine having ever owned an actual record. I played that record until it just wouldn’t work anymore. I remember watching the Thriller and Beat It videos on a TV channel that played music videos called MTV. That was before MTV only played trashy, immoral, reality TV shows.
What really stood out though was captain EO. My parents took my sister and I to Disney World the year it was released at the Imagination Pavilion in Epcot. It’s hard to remember just how big Michael Jackson was unless you remember that show. To call it a production is an understatement. You will never see anything like that in any theme park ever again. The cast and production crew was like an all-star team. You shake your head when you hear some of the names involved in that show. Michael Jackson, Angelica Huston, Francis Ford Coppola, and George Lucas were all involved with the show.
It was the first show that I know of to do 4D. 4D is a 3D movie with a layer of interactive or independent effects outside the screen. Captain EO had fog machines and lasers that worked in harmony with the movie. That is now a standard for all 3D attractions in major theme parks.
In the end I have to say Michael Jackson wasn’t right in the head. He had major issues. However, he was still very talented and for a while was the biggest celebrity in the world. Maybe that’s what drove him nuts.
When I was a kid I had Thriller on an actual record. It’s hard to imagine having ever owned an actual record. I played that record until it just wouldn’t work anymore. I remember watching the Thriller and Beat It videos on a TV channel that played music videos called MTV. That was before MTV only played trashy, immoral, reality TV shows.
What really stood out though was captain EO. My parents took my sister and I to Disney World the year it was released at the Imagination Pavilion in Epcot. It’s hard to remember just how big Michael Jackson was unless you remember that show. To call it a production is an understatement. You will never see anything like that in any theme park ever again. The cast and production crew was like an all-star team. You shake your head when you hear some of the names involved in that show. Michael Jackson, Angelica Huston, Francis Ford Coppola, and George Lucas were all involved with the show.
It was the first show that I know of to do 4D. 4D is a 3D movie with a layer of interactive or independent effects outside the screen. Captain EO had fog machines and lasers that worked in harmony with the movie. That is now a standard for all 3D attractions in major theme parks.
In the end I have to say Michael Jackson wasn’t right in the head. He had major issues. However, he was still very talented and for a while was the biggest celebrity in the world. Maybe that’s what drove him nuts.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Big Thunder Mountain Video Posted
A video of Big Thunder Mountain has been posted. This video was taken in December of 2008. You’ll notice we got stuck on one of the lift hills in the dark. My camcorder is awful in low light so you really don’t see much while we were stuck. You might hear a few comments but that’s about it.
You can view the video HERE
On a side note I finally had a chance to update many of the posts with photos so feel free to scroll through the blog to see the new pics.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
The Electric Water Pageant Video Posted
I have posted my video of the Electric Water Pageant.
The Pageant has been playing every night on bay lake almost as long as Disney World has been open.
This is a great show that I’ve seen many times. I remember seeing this show when I was a young kid on my first trip. My grand mother took my cousins and I to the beach at Fort Wilderness to watch it.
This edition was taken from high up in the Contemporary Resort in December 2008.
The video can be viewed HERE
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
100 Posts – What a Fun but Colossal Waste of Time!
First of all I want to thank everyone who has inspired my love Disney World, my rants, demented stories, and fake news. I’m talking about:
My Wife (for not reading this blog because she’d kill me if she did)
Len “The best alien you’ll ever meet” Testa
Matt “It’s A Conspiracy” Hochberg
Mike “Everyone’s Favorite Cyborg” Scopa
Mike “Da Criminal Mastermind” Newell
Annette “Overlord” Owens
Deb “Merryweather” Wills
Ricky Brigante
“Skipper” Ben
Jim Hill
Lou “When do we eat?” Mongello (I’ll do post for anyone who knows where that quote is from – you pick the topic)
Samantha Brown
The entire gang at the DIS
Nathan Rose
Van at Netcot
The Burping Troll of Walmart
The people in the Rochester NH Police Log (always good for a laugh)
My parents for going into debt up to their eyeballs to take my sister and I to Disney World when we were kids
Deb “Debinator” Hawes for laughing even when my ideas stink
Mara “Frosts My Bananas” Robertson
Robin “Re Re” Rainville
Oh and of course I have to thank everyone who’s wasted their valuable time reading my crappy blog. It makes me happy!
For my 100 post I thought I’d do a review of the previous 99 posts. Some, I forgot I even wrote, some made me laugh (how sad is that), and some made me want to delete them but if I did I wouldn’t have 100.
This is a great time to catch up if you haven’t already!
Post #1
Bob Iger’s Bonus….Your Alcohol Purchases at Work…or Maybe Not
This was a critical overview of the outrageous alcohol prices in Disney World and I offered some creative, maybe offensive, and possibly illegal ways around them.
Post #2
Disney and Miracle Ear – The Conspiracy to Deafen America!
This was an attempt at explaining why many of the rides in Disney World are so insanely loud. I offered a number of humorous and obviously fake explanations.
Post #3
I’ll look that gift horse in the mouth!
A true story about what I got during the “Year of a Million Dreams” promotion. This is also the first post where I express my dislike for most parades.
Post #4
YEEEAAA!! Oh wait….it’s a parade…
I explain why I don’t like most parades and I also list the Disney World Parades….Epcot still has the best one.
Post #5
Podcasts
I review all of the podcasts I listen to and rank them on a number of factors include “cheese.” I’ve only started listen to one other podcast since this post. That makes eight of them…I think. I need to get a life. That’s as much as 14hrs a week and growing all the time thanks to Lou.
Post #6
Rides That Need to Retire
This post was about rides that I can’t stand, have been ruined by Disney, or have become outdated.
Post #7
Yak and YACK and Yeti
This was my first restaurant review. Review isn’t a good description. Rant might be better. Easily one of the worst meals I’ve had in a long time.
Post #8
We Need to be PC Because It’s PC to be PC
One of my person favorites – this post was an overview of PC gone crazy. Warning this one might offend you.
Post #9
The California Grill
This was my second restaurant review which is a real review and not a rant. This covered our dinner at the California Grill which turned out to be the second best restaurant we’ve ever eaten at.
Post #10
The Hall of Presidents, Brought to You by Depends!
Another of my favorites – this post offered a number of potential sponsors for rides based on an effective product – ride match. This one is rather demented.
Post #11
HOLY POO FLINGING MONKEYS! It’s Dark Wing Duck!
I reviewed the mania that is character greeting in this post. This post had a number of firsts including my first use of the term “Poo Flinging Monkey’s” in my blog. It was also the first time I expressed how I find face characters creepy.
Post #12
Rides You Will Never See
I do an overview of rides that you will never see in Disney World even though some of them would be great! If you don’t like dark humor avoid this post. One of the ideas is rather…mean…
Post #13
The Deluxe Dining Plan – My stomach hurts…
I do a review of the Deluxe Dining plan and offer suggestions that are not cost effective but allow you to use all of your credits. If you are a member of Weight Watchers – don’t read this post.
Post #14
Disney Worlds Unofficial Marathons
I explain what the unofficial marathons are, where you can join them, and even offer a few new ones that will soon catch on. I believe this is the first time I make fun of WDW Today regular and Unofficial Guide co-author Len Testa.
Post #15
Citricos…Where’s the Burping Troll When You Need Her?
In my review of Citricos I explain why it was an unpleasant, awful end to our vacation. I also mention the Burping Troll of Wal-Mart for the first time in this post.
Post #16
It Got a Flat Tire so We Bought a New Car
In this post I criticize Disney for canning rides that beloved for good and not so good reasons.
Post #17
I Don’t Even Like Hats…
This is a classic case of self deprecation. I make fun of myself for always buying a hat when I go to Disney World. I don’t wear hats. I don’t really like hats but I always end up with a hat. I go over the hats from the bad to the just plain awful!
Post #18
It’s Good…Let’s Ruin It!
My first Disney restaurant view for a restaurant I had previous experience with. This is a review of Artist Point and how someone flushed it down the toilet.
Post #19
It’s the Little Things
An overview of how the small things make all the difference in Disney even when big things are overlooked.
Post #20
The Liberty Tree Tavern
My review of the Liberty Tree Tavern located in the Magic Kingdom.
Post #21
Finding a Gem
My personal experience of being totally blown away by rides I thought were going to stink worse than rotting meat.
Post #22
Are you 23?
I do a completely demented list of possible predictions for D23. Warning this one may offend some people.
Post #23
Mmmmm…Tonga Toast….
My review of the Kona Café and one of the best foods I’ve ever eaten. I should have worn my stretchy pants that day.
Post #24
The Burping Troll of Walmart
My first non-Disney Post – This post explains who the Burping Troll of Wal-Mart is and how she got that name.
Post #25
That Music Is AWFUL…but I Love It
I discuss the music found in Disney World and why we like it.
Post #26
What’s up With the World Showcase?
I whine about how the world showcase hasn’t added a county in recent years. I also recommend some new countries. Some are serious some are total jokes. Warning this one has some very dark humor in it.
Post #27
The Hochberg Conspiracy
Part One in the WDW Today series - The now legendary story about Matt Hochberg’s so called wedding, the offer of a lifetime, and a violent death race across Disney World. This was the first time I made fun of Matt. This post also spawned a number of other posts, each focusing on a different member of the Disney Community. This was also the first post that received a comment. Matt has the dubious distinction of being the first ever commenter. I still have no idea how he found it.
Post #28
How to fix the worst ride in the “World”
In a very serious post I explain how Disney can fix Stich’s Great Escape without blowing a lot of money. I’m serious. There is hope for this ride.
Post #29
Where’s the Booze?
One of my personal favorites – In this post I explain why no alcohol is served in the Magic Kingdom. Keep the kids away from this post. Do not read this post if you are an alcoholic as you may find some of the humor offensive.
Post #30
Narcoossee’s: The Best Restaurant at the Grand Floridian
This is my review of the second best restaurant in Disney World.
Post #31
D(ouh!) 23
A rant about what D23 ended up being.
Post #32
The DVC Era
I do a serious overview of the Disney Vacation Club, how it works, and who should consider it.
Post #33
Don’t Forget the Gold Bond!
Despite the name this is a serious post. It offers a number of good recommendations and reminders to maximize the enjoyment and minimize bad stuff during your vacation.
Post #34
American Idol is in Disney World! Great…
I make fun of the new American Idol attraction. As if that was difficult…
Post #35
Mickey’s MMA Festival
Yes this is as insane as it sounds. I propose a number of MMA bouts between Disney characters and propose fake reasons for them.
Post #36
Meet and Greet areas are EVIL!
I complain about character meet and greets…sounds great doesn’t it?
Post #37
How to Fix D23
I give some very valid suggestions to make D23 far more profitable and far better.
Post #38
It’s Prime Time
This is my review of the Prime Time Café.
Post #39
The Tower of Terror Cover-up!
One of my personal favorites - This is a hybrid post. It relates a very humorous true story involving the tower of terror and then adds a ridiculous post story follow up.
Post #40
The Wow Factor
I review a few of the things that make you say “wow” in Disney World.
Post #41
Girl Power!
This is a very goofy post about a proposed video game involving female Disney characters fighting each other. I know that sounds perverted but it’s really not.
Post #42
Disney’s Untapped Asset
A humorous post about how Disney can increase their profits during an economic downturn by utilizing their surveillance footage.
Post #43
Rides I’ve Never Been On
A surprising list of rides I’ve never ridden and why I’ve never ridden them.
Post #44
The Animal Kingdom
I do a review of the Animal Kingdom. I list the good and I list the bad. Overall I defend Animal Kingdom as a valid member of the Disney Theme Parks.
Post #45
Pleasure Island
I offer recommendations for the now defunct Pleasure Island
Post #46
Mike Scopa’s Dark Secret
Part Two in the WDW Today series - In an over the top work of fiction I reveal the truth about Mike Scopa’s age and his troubling past.
Post #47
Disney Books You’ll Never See
Keep the kids away from this one. This is one of my personal favorites. It’s a list of just plain demented fake Disney books.
Post #48
I’m Not Fat, I’m Big…Ah who am I Kidding…
I make fun of myself for being over weight but I also blame Disney for making everything smaller….
Post #49
Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy...
I relate my experience with Happy Limo.
Post #50
How to Survive a Tough Economy
I offer some ideas on how Disney can survive a bad economy. None of the ideas are serious. None are even feasible.
Post #51
Disney’s Movie Club
I review the Disney Movie Club and weigh the pros and cons.
Post #52
New England Isn’t a Country…It’s Not a State Either
This is the first post that was inspired by Matt Hochberg’s inability to pronounce anything Native American. I explain what New England is and give some details of the states that make it up.
Post #53
Len Testa – Tequila – The Shocking Connection
Part Three of the WDW Today series – In this ridiculous piece of bad fiction I explain why Len is the way he is and explain his love of tequila. Just keep him away from the Moxie. Somehow Len found this post and left a comment making him the second commenter ever. I shall call you number two!
Post #54
Splash Mountain
I do a scene by scene overview of my favorite ride.
Post #55
Photo Pass
I do an overview of Disney’s Photo Pass and compare it to the photographers found on cruise lines.
Post #56
I Took the Wrong Right
This is a post that was inspired by one of Mike Scopa’s blog posts. I relate an outrageous story about accidently finding myself in the ultilidors while looking for a bathroom.
Post #57
“Flip for Helmets” Innovations Newest Attraction
This is my favorite post. I smile when I read it. One reason I like it so much is because the opening line was used almost word for word a week later when the new Raytheon exhibit was announced.
Post #58
Paak Daa Kah Ova Deah – A Pronunciation Guide
The second post influenced by Matt Hochberg’s complete inability to pronounce New England names. I give an over view of how to speak New England. I was originally going to do a third installment for Matt but someone left a not so pleasant comment on this post.
Post #59
The Dark Side of Being a Character
This is a fake, Hard Copy style report of the hazing and gangs that can be found among the Disney characters.
Post #60
One Big Dysfunctional Family
This is a review of WDW Today’s April live show.
Post #61
New Addition to Star Wars Weekends
This is a fake news release of a new Star Wars attraction at DHS.
Post #62
Don’t Mess With Mike Newell!
Part Four in the WDW Today series – This dark story explains the demented genius that is Mike Newell.
Post #63
Remy Killed in Tragic Misunderstanding
Keep your kids away from this one! This is a piece of dark humor revolving around Chefs De France that some (term used loosely) might find offensive.
Post #64
The Relocation Program
Here I explain how we can save some of the attractions that have been rumored to be on the chopping block.
Post #65
The Plus Side of a Bad Economy
In this post I explain why the bad economy has a sliver lining.
Post #66
The Problem With Deluxe
Here I explain why the deluxe resorts are a double edged sword.
Post #67
Three Little Pigs Placed Under Quarantine
In this fake news flash I explain how the Three Little Pigs have been incarcerated and a massive manhunt is on for Piglet because of Swine Flu frenzy.
Post #68
Don’t Say No
In this post I relate some experiences related to volunteering at Disney World attractions.
Post #69
We Can Do Better Than Water Boarding
Don’t worry it’s not as offensive as it sounds. I offer humane forms of torture related to Disney World.
Post #70
How to get Banned for Life and Possibly Arrested in Disney World
This is one of my favorites – I explain a number of fun yet dangerous ideas of things to do in Disney World. Basically a bunch of things the voice in your head tries to get you to do.
Post #71
Special Report – It’s a Small World Overhaul
I break the news about the upcoming “Small World” overhaul. Yes it’s fake and yes it’s demented.
Post #72
The Return of Flash Mountain
I discuss the news that the photo filter guy is being removed and its possible consequences.
Post #73
Annette Owens – Butt Kicker
Part Five in the WDW Today series – I explain the truth about Annette Owens and her Army.
Post #74
The Apps
I do a review of a number of iPhone Apps currently available in the iTunes store.
Post #75
The Contemporary
This is my review of my favorite Disney resort, the Contemporary resort.
Post #76
The Hit or Miss Ride
This is a review of some amazing experiences on the Jungle Cruise.
Post #77
Going Green with Pig Poop
This is a fake news story about Disney’s newest power plant.
Post #78
The Wave – Tree Hugging Hippies Unite!
My review of the Wave restaurant. As you can tell I was impressed…
Post #79
The Mascot
I explain who the dog on the main page of my the blog is.
Post #80
Things That Amaze Me Volume One: The Omni Mover System
Here I talk about the Omni Mover System and why it’s one of the best ride systems ever!
Post #81
Violence Erupts at Star Wars Weekends!
An over the top fake news story that anyone who loves Star Wars will love!
Post #82
The First Video!
I announce my first YouTube Disney video which was created win photos I took on my trip. It’s better than it sounds….really!
Post #83
Second Video Now Loaded!
I announce my second YouTube Disney video. This one is better than the first one. At least it got more hits.
Post #84
The Gap
An unintentionally depressing post about the odds of The Cousin Mickey Doesn’t Talk About making it back to Disney World.
Post #85
How Does Deb Wills Do It?
A sequel to the WDW Today series – I explain how Deb Wills does so much and reveal her true identity.
Post #86
Things That Amaze Me: Volume Two – The Monorail
I do an overview of the Monorail system and relate a couple of experiences.
Post #87
What About Lou?
In this demented, humorous story we learn how Lou became a Disney trivia mogul and why he likes to eat so much.
Post #88
Disney Announces Who Their Actual Fans Are
This is a humorous fake news story that makes fun of Disney and accuses Annette Owns of trying to weaken Disney in an attempt to take it over.
Post #89
Up
My overview of some of the most powerful scenes from the Disney / Pixar animated film “Up.”
Post #90
Kermit and the Muppets vs. Mickey and Friends
I describe a parade I’d actually watch in this post. This isn’t a joke. I think it’s a great idea J.
Post #91
Top Ten Disney Music
In this post I explain what my top ten Disney Music tracks are and also award honorable mentions.
Post #92
Things That Amaze Me Volume 3: Hidden Details
In this post I cover some of the overlooked details like the color of the walk ways and how the entrance to the Magic Kingdom is similar to a movie theater.
Post #93
Authorities Track Maple Syrup Abuse Trend to Disney Community
One of my personal favorites, this post is a fake news story about an epidemic of maple syrup abuse across America.
Post #94
Some People Are Idiots!
A rant about people who have been complaining about Tiana in the new Princess and the Frog movie.
Post #95
The Elderly and the Parks
This one is a touching (it’s my only touching post) overview of whether to bring elderly relatives with you when you visit Disney World.
Post #96
Pirate Arrested for Urinating in Public
A humorous fake news story about an alcoholic, audio-animatronic pirate with apparent bladder problems.
Post #97
The Curse of Stich
I reveal an amazing connection between the Boston Red Sox and the Disney character Stich.
Post #98
Theme Parks at Night: Epcot
This is the first of a series of posts regarding the theme parks at night. Originally the Magic Kingdom was going to be the first but I accidently deleted the draft and have to rewrite it.
Post #99
The DIS – WDW Mafia’s Legal Front
This is an outrageous, factious, story about the WDW Mafia and their legal front, the gang at the DIS.
Monday, June 22, 2009
The DIS – WDW Mafia’s Legal Front
Every day that passes more and more people sign up on the DIS Boards, the DIS Unplugged, or sign up for a podcast cruise. Most people overlook the fact that most of what the DIS does is done at no cost. How could the DIS possibly afford to maintain everything they do?
I looked into it.
I thought that maybe Dreams Unlimited was the source of the funding and they were just very generous. I was wrong. Dreams Unlimited was not capable of carrying that kind of load. I kept looking and found out something odd. Most of the names of the people from the DIS Unplugged were changed within the last 10 to 20 years. All of them use to have Italian names like Gotti and Corleone.
When I followed their real names back I found out that they all had connections to organized crime and that’s when it hit me. The DIS is a front for the infamous WDW Mafia which, as everyone knows, was started by Oswald the Bunny.
Oswald the Bunny was upset about being left behind by Walt when he branched out on his own. To retaliate he started a gang which escalated into a full scaled crime syndicate.
Over the years you can see the evidence of the Mafia’s influence. For example – the birds in the Tiki Room refused to pay their protection fees so two of the low level members of the crime family were installed as “managers.” Another example – Stich, a prominent member of the mafia, wanted his own attraction. Under threat of “action” Disney closed down Alien Encounter and opened Stich’s Great Escape.
The DIS isn’t just a legal front. They also work the system. If a restaurant doesn’t pay their security fees on time guess what happens? John shows up and has a meal. Half of the time this works and the restaurant pays up. If they don’t there will be a nasty review on the DIS Unplugged within a couple of weeks. This has been a very effective tool to date.
When a hotel refuses to pay the Mafia sends Pete out. 90% of the time the hotel manager sees Pete get out of the car and they pay up. If they don’t a world famous rant is just a podcast away.
In the rare case where the negative publicity doesn’t work, the Mafia sends in their enforcer, the DIS’s own Julie Martin. You don’t mess with Julie. Most people say that they have never heard a bad thing about Julie. That’s because no ever survives to complain.
I looked into it.
I thought that maybe Dreams Unlimited was the source of the funding and they were just very generous. I was wrong. Dreams Unlimited was not capable of carrying that kind of load. I kept looking and found out something odd. Most of the names of the people from the DIS Unplugged were changed within the last 10 to 20 years. All of them use to have Italian names like Gotti and Corleone.
When I followed their real names back I found out that they all had connections to organized crime and that’s when it hit me. The DIS is a front for the infamous WDW Mafia which, as everyone knows, was started by Oswald the Bunny.
Oswald the Bunny was upset about being left behind by Walt when he branched out on his own. To retaliate he started a gang which escalated into a full scaled crime syndicate.
Over the years you can see the evidence of the Mafia’s influence. For example – the birds in the Tiki Room refused to pay their protection fees so two of the low level members of the crime family were installed as “managers.” Another example – Stich, a prominent member of the mafia, wanted his own attraction. Under threat of “action” Disney closed down Alien Encounter and opened Stich’s Great Escape.
The DIS isn’t just a legal front. They also work the system. If a restaurant doesn’t pay their security fees on time guess what happens? John shows up and has a meal. Half of the time this works and the restaurant pays up. If they don’t there will be a nasty review on the DIS Unplugged within a couple of weeks. This has been a very effective tool to date.
When a hotel refuses to pay the Mafia sends Pete out. 90% of the time the hotel manager sees Pete get out of the car and they pay up. If they don’t a world famous rant is just a podcast away.
In the rare case where the negative publicity doesn’t work, the Mafia sends in their enforcer, the DIS’s own Julie Martin. You don’t mess with Julie. Most people say that they have never heard a bad thing about Julie. That’s because no ever survives to complain.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Theme Parks at Night: Epcot
Epcot is one of the most unique theme parks I’ve ever been in. It is nothing like the Magic Kingdom. It really does stand out in a way that Animal Kingdom and DHS never could. When nighttime comes it has some truly jaw dropping sights.
1) Spaceship Earth: How could I not mention Spaceship Earth first? During the day it’s amazing. The way the monorail circles it is awesome. At night it truly rivals Cinderella’s Castle. In my opinion, it’s better. When it’s lighted in the peach, pink, and purple few manmade objects can match its beauty.
2) The Fiber Optics: During the day they are invisible. At night the walkways around Spaceship Earth light up with thousands of pin points of light. Words don’t describe it well. I’ve never seen this in any other theme park.
3) The France Pavilion: The France Pavilion during the day is nice. At night it’s amazing. From the fountains to its location by the river it’s really amazing.
4) Test Track: The end of test track is exciting during the day. Put the in dim light of night and you feel like you are moving even faster. If you scare easy, don’t forget your depends.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
The Curse of Stich
Some people don’t believe in curses. Other people have seen irrefutable proof that they exist. I’ve always lived in NH which means I grew up a Red Sox fan. Red Sox fans know a thing or two about curses. For generations the “Curse of the Bambino” wasn’t just an urban legend it was a fact. People saw the proof of it year after year. The Red Sox could not win. They’d get so close and then implode over and over again. The final blow came in 2003. All we needed was a few outs and the Yankees would fall and we’d be in the World Series. We lost.
Little did we know that something else happened in 2003 the broke the curse. According to legend to break a curse you need to appease the person who set the curse or another greater injustice needs to occur. In the later case the curse will be pulled from its current subject and thrust onto the new subject.
In 2003 “Alien Encounter” in the Magic Kingdom was closed. When a good, ground breaking ride dies, a massive void is created. That void pulled the curse off of the Red Sox and onto the Disney character Stich.
The evidence came in 2004. The Red Sox mad history, they came from three games down to defeat the Yankees in the greatest ALCS of all time. Shortly after, Stich’s Great Escape opened.
There was no doubt that the Great Escape was the worst attraction in Disney World. It remained the worst attraction until an attempt was made to break Stich out. When the Supersonic Celebration debuted it was evident that the curse hadn’t just landed on Stich, it was worse than ever!
The curse isn’t dangerous; it’s just very painful to watch. If anymore Stich rides come out, avoid them at all costs. You’ll just be disappointed.
Little did we know that something else happened in 2003 the broke the curse. According to legend to break a curse you need to appease the person who set the curse or another greater injustice needs to occur. In the later case the curse will be pulled from its current subject and thrust onto the new subject.
In 2003 “Alien Encounter” in the Magic Kingdom was closed. When a good, ground breaking ride dies, a massive void is created. That void pulled the curse off of the Red Sox and onto the Disney character Stich.
The evidence came in 2004. The Red Sox mad history, they came from three games down to defeat the Yankees in the greatest ALCS of all time. Shortly after, Stich’s Great Escape opened.
There was no doubt that the Great Escape was the worst attraction in Disney World. It remained the worst attraction until an attempt was made to break Stich out. When the Supersonic Celebration debuted it was evident that the curse hadn’t just landed on Stich, it was worse than ever!
The curse isn’t dangerous; it’s just very painful to watch. If anymore Stich rides come out, avoid them at all costs. You’ll just be disappointed.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Pirate Arrested for Urinating in Public
An audio-animatronic pirate who works on the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in Walt Disney World was arrested yesterday afternoon after he was caught urinating into the attractions water.
“It appears the pirate has a drinking problem. We found piles of bottles around him and every time we asked him a question he responded “It’s plunder we be seeking!”” stated an Orange County police man who responded to the scene.
It appears that the pirate has been regularly relieving himself into the attraction water but people thought it was the bilge pump for the pirate ship. After all Disney is known for its attention to detail.
The pirate was caught when a member of the Disney Community whose last name can be used as a greeting or a curse word, noticed the “new detail.” He approached a cast member and was informed that there had been no recent updates to the attraction. A supervisor checked the security camera footage and caught the pirate and then called the authorities.
The pirate was released on $500 personal recognizance bail and has entered a rehab program. When contacted for comment the pirate stated “It’s plunder we be seeking!”
The pirate’s lawyer, a fellow audio animatronic pirate, was also contacted. He responded “We wants the redhead!” to all of our questions.
“It appears the pirate has a drinking problem. We found piles of bottles around him and every time we asked him a question he responded “It’s plunder we be seeking!”” stated an Orange County police man who responded to the scene.
It appears that the pirate has been regularly relieving himself into the attraction water but people thought it was the bilge pump for the pirate ship. After all Disney is known for its attention to detail.
The pirate was caught when a member of the Disney Community whose last name can be used as a greeting or a curse word, noticed the “new detail.” He approached a cast member and was informed that there had been no recent updates to the attraction. A supervisor checked the security camera footage and caught the pirate and then called the authorities.
The pirate was released on $500 personal recognizance bail and has entered a rehab program. When contacted for comment the pirate stated “It’s plunder we be seeking!”
The pirate’s lawyer, a fellow audio animatronic pirate, was also contacted. He responded “We wants the redhead!” to all of our questions.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Elderly and the Parks
When planning a Disney vacation should you consider inviting your elderly relatives? It depends on the individual but I have to say we never thought twice with my grand mother.
At 64 she rode Space Mountain. She got off and told my dad “There’s no line, lets go again!” So they got back in line. After that ride, they got back in line again. After that the cast member stopped them and told my grand mother that she was too old to keep walking around and he sent her through without having to wait in line. After two more rides she finally got off.
She loved Epcot, especially the World Showcase. She loved going to the pub in the UK and grabbing a beer or a gin and tonic. She had to pace herself because Epcot is so large. I think that was her excuse to grab a drink at many of the countries.
At 84 she couldn’t ride Space Mountain anymore. She couldn’t walk large distances either. She still loved the parks. My mom would push her in a wheel chair and she’d still go on Splash Mountain and other rides. She also loved getting her photo taken in Disney. The last photo of her in Disney was taken by a cast member. It was of her, my mother, my sister, and my niece, four generations in front of Cinderella’s castle.
She had a stroke two months later. Before she died she never recovered. However she loved Disney. At her funeral it was brought out how she loved to travel but Disney World was her favorite.
Just remember to keep the camera going when you’re in the parks. Some of your best memories will be there. It doesn’t matter if they don’t like or cannot go on rides. Even if they can’t do as much as they used to, for many just being with their families is worth the price to get in.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Some People Are Idiots!
Some people suffer from a chronic case can cranial – rectal inversion, also known as – head up your butt syndrome. Why do I say this? I’ve come across some websites and blogs that are complaining about Disney’s newest princess Tiana.
Tiana is the star of new animated movie “The Princess and the Frog.” Why is she drawing such attention – because she’s an African American.
I couldn’t help but think “who gives a Remy’s backside” when I saw people complaining and calling the whole thing racist. I think those same people are the ones who have been complaining for years that Disney only had white princesses.
To be honest I thought people would complain more a bout princess Jasmine. She’s Arabic and runs around half naked. That’s normally enough to get Al-Qaida foaming at the mouth.
Why didn’t people complain when Disney released the new Tinker Bell movie? Is it ok to have an African American fairy but not an African American princess?
Can you imagine what people could accomplish if they focused their time and effort on reducing pollution, trying to find a cure for cancer, or save the whales instead of whining about a cartoon?
From what I can tell Tiana is done tastefully. We’re not talking about another Uncle Remus here. Can’t we just stop and remember we’re talking about a cartoon and Disney is trying to be a little more diverse? Keep in mind that Disney changed her name already because people thought the first name was too cliché. I normally don’t defend Disney but in this case I think it’s warranted.
Tiana is the star of new animated movie “The Princess and the Frog.” Why is she drawing such attention – because she’s an African American.
I couldn’t help but think “who gives a Remy’s backside” when I saw people complaining and calling the whole thing racist. I think those same people are the ones who have been complaining for years that Disney only had white princesses.
To be honest I thought people would complain more a bout princess Jasmine. She’s Arabic and runs around half naked. That’s normally enough to get Al-Qaida foaming at the mouth.
Why didn’t people complain when Disney released the new Tinker Bell movie? Is it ok to have an African American fairy but not an African American princess?
Can you imagine what people could accomplish if they focused their time and effort on reducing pollution, trying to find a cure for cancer, or save the whales instead of whining about a cartoon?
From what I can tell Tiana is done tastefully. We’re not talking about another Uncle Remus here. Can’t we just stop and remember we’re talking about a cartoon and Disney is trying to be a little more diverse? Keep in mind that Disney changed her name already because people thought the first name was too cliché. I normally don’t defend Disney but in this case I think it’s warranted.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Authorities Track Maple Syrup Abuse Trend to Disney Community
Authorities, who have been battling a new trend of teens abusing maple syrup, have finally tracked the origins of the trend.
Near the end of last year children, teens, and even some adults began drinking maple syrup straight out of the bottle in an attempt to get a sugar high. Authorities immediately tried to stifle the troubling trend which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and even death.
“What first brought our attention to the problem was a shortage of maple syrup at the grocery store,” stated an Orange County FL detective and Disney favorite, Goofy. “Next we noticed an unusual number of fat kids, followed by a jump in diabetes.”
Abusers started using new slang to hide what they were doing. Terms such as “Going to the last country on the right,” “Would you like a Testa Shot,” and “The Finish Line,” have become common.
“These terms were all clues that helped the authorities track the origins of this crisis,” stated an outraged, professional cow tipper who calls central FL home.
Following the clues, testimony from recovering addicts, and maple syrup dealers, authorities discovered that the first documented case of maple syrup abuse was during the taping a WDW Today podcast episode called “Sip, Snack, Sic.” In the episode a group of unscrupulous individuals attempted to “eat around the world” or eat a food item in every country in the World Showcase in Disney’s Epcot theme park. After a brazen display of gluttony one of the individuals, WDW Today regular Len Testa, drinks maple syrup out of the bottle because his stomach was so distended he could not eat another food item.
“After reviewing this podcast I’m amazed things aren’t worse,” stated a magical frog named Tim. “This podcast had gluttony, maple syrup drinking, binging, attempted purging, and what could be considered hazing. I’m not letting my tadpoles ever listen to this podcast again!”
It is unknown if any legal action will be brought against WDW Today or any of the participants in the shenanigans of that fateful day. However, the consequences of that day’s actions are far reaching and have affected the lives of tens of billions.
Near the end of last year children, teens, and even some adults began drinking maple syrup straight out of the bottle in an attempt to get a sugar high. Authorities immediately tried to stifle the troubling trend which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and even death.
“What first brought our attention to the problem was a shortage of maple syrup at the grocery store,” stated an Orange County FL detective and Disney favorite, Goofy. “Next we noticed an unusual number of fat kids, followed by a jump in diabetes.”
Abusers started using new slang to hide what they were doing. Terms such as “Going to the last country on the right,” “Would you like a Testa Shot,” and “The Finish Line,” have become common.
“These terms were all clues that helped the authorities track the origins of this crisis,” stated an outraged, professional cow tipper who calls central FL home.
Following the clues, testimony from recovering addicts, and maple syrup dealers, authorities discovered that the first documented case of maple syrup abuse was during the taping a WDW Today podcast episode called “Sip, Snack, Sic.” In the episode a group of unscrupulous individuals attempted to “eat around the world” or eat a food item in every country in the World Showcase in Disney’s Epcot theme park. After a brazen display of gluttony one of the individuals, WDW Today regular Len Testa, drinks maple syrup out of the bottle because his stomach was so distended he could not eat another food item.
“After reviewing this podcast I’m amazed things aren’t worse,” stated a magical frog named Tim. “This podcast had gluttony, maple syrup drinking, binging, attempted purging, and what could be considered hazing. I’m not letting my tadpoles ever listen to this podcast again!”
It is unknown if any legal action will be brought against WDW Today or any of the participants in the shenanigans of that fateful day. However, the consequences of that day’s actions are far reaching and have affected the lives of tens of billions.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Things That Amaze Me Volume 3: Hidden Details
Disney is famous for their attention to detail. People have written entire books on how in depth the detail in Disney World is. Most of the detail is in front of you but there are some things that you just wouldn’t catch unless someone pointed it out or you are unbelievably observant.
Here are some of the details that most people never see or just overlook:
1 – The Entrance to the Magic Kingdom: Most people just think it’s an entrance. Guess again! After you get through security and start to walk through the tunnels stop and think. What are you doing? Look around for a second. Most people notice the amazing posters for the rides but they don’t realize what they are. Look closely. They’re not really ride posters, they are movie posters. The entrance to the Magic Kingdom is the same as an entrance to a movie theater. Both have posters for current “attractions” that are playing. If you’re in a movie theater what comes next, the concessions right? As soon as you are through the tunnels what is the first thing you see and smell? It’s an old fashion popcorn maker. In old movies what was the beginning of the movie? Before Star Wars all movies played their credits at the beginning. As you walk down Main Street USA you’ll notice there are names on all the windows…get it? You are seeing the opening credits for the Magic Kingdom. Welcome to the show.
2 – The Walk Ways: Have you ever noticed the walk ways in most theme parks? Typically it’s tarmac or concrete. Good old stand gray. Ever notice the walkways in the Disney parks? The walk ways are a salmon color. Why would you want that? Did someone just really like salmon? No. When you look at the color wheel what color is almost opposite from pink or salmon? Green is. When you put the two colors next to each other they don’t blend together. This causes the greens to look brighter than they actually are. That’s one reason why everything looks brighter and healthier in Disney World.
3 – DO NOT OPEN / It is Only for Show: A good rule of thumb in Disney World is; if it says “do not open,” open it. You’ll find all sorts of hidden funnies by doing this. I’m not going to tell you where they are, you’ll have to go look for them. Another fun detail is all the things that look like they are just decorations. If you see an old fashion phone, pick it up. If you see a pay phone in the middle of the park…it’s not really a pay phone in most cases. You can hear some really funny conversations by picking these up.
4 – Gags: There is a sign in the queue for Muppet 3D Vision that says “Key under mat.” They are not kidding. There really is a key under the mat if you take the time to pull the mat up. Yes it is bolted to the floor. Muppet 3D is full of gags. Ever notice the net hanging from the ceiling? It’s not full of foam. It’s full of Jell-O. Do you get it? A-Net-Full-of-Jell-O. Just think of the original Mickey Mouse Club and you’ll figure out the play on words. Ok, I’ll break it down more – ANET-FULLOFJELLO. Say it that way and you might get it.
5 – Hidden Mickey’s: At this point everyone knows about the hidden Mickey’s in Disney World. They are all over the place. The largest hidden Mickey ever created is no longer viewable. If you have an original map of DHS, turn it upside down. DHS in its original form was a massive hidden Mickey. There are also some hidden Mickey’s that are more than just the famous ears. In the steamboat scene on Splash Mountain you’ll notice the clouds form a little more than just mouse ears.
6 – Don’t leave too fast: People tend to bolt for the doors as soon as a show or attraction is over. If you always do this you’ll miss some classic moments. One example is the Tiki Room. If you stick around long enough you’ll hear the birds make fun of another attraction. One of them says he’s tired and is going to go to the Hall of Presidents to take a nap. It’s not the funniest statement in a Disney World attraction. That has to go to the old guys from the Muppet Show. “Hey look at the guy in the Goofy mask.” “That’s not a mask!” “Sorry lady!”
Here are some of the details that most people never see or just overlook:
1 – The Entrance to the Magic Kingdom: Most people just think it’s an entrance. Guess again! After you get through security and start to walk through the tunnels stop and think. What are you doing? Look around for a second. Most people notice the amazing posters for the rides but they don’t realize what they are. Look closely. They’re not really ride posters, they are movie posters. The entrance to the Magic Kingdom is the same as an entrance to a movie theater. Both have posters for current “attractions” that are playing. If you’re in a movie theater what comes next, the concessions right? As soon as you are through the tunnels what is the first thing you see and smell? It’s an old fashion popcorn maker. In old movies what was the beginning of the movie? Before Star Wars all movies played their credits at the beginning. As you walk down Main Street USA you’ll notice there are names on all the windows…get it? You are seeing the opening credits for the Magic Kingdom. Welcome to the show.
2 – The Walk Ways: Have you ever noticed the walk ways in most theme parks? Typically it’s tarmac or concrete. Good old stand gray. Ever notice the walkways in the Disney parks? The walk ways are a salmon color. Why would you want that? Did someone just really like salmon? No. When you look at the color wheel what color is almost opposite from pink or salmon? Green is. When you put the two colors next to each other they don’t blend together. This causes the greens to look brighter than they actually are. That’s one reason why everything looks brighter and healthier in Disney World.
3 – DO NOT OPEN / It is Only for Show: A good rule of thumb in Disney World is; if it says “do not open,” open it. You’ll find all sorts of hidden funnies by doing this. I’m not going to tell you where they are, you’ll have to go look for them. Another fun detail is all the things that look like they are just decorations. If you see an old fashion phone, pick it up. If you see a pay phone in the middle of the park…it’s not really a pay phone in most cases. You can hear some really funny conversations by picking these up.
4 – Gags: There is a sign in the queue for Muppet 3D Vision that says “Key under mat.” They are not kidding. There really is a key under the mat if you take the time to pull the mat up. Yes it is bolted to the floor. Muppet 3D is full of gags. Ever notice the net hanging from the ceiling? It’s not full of foam. It’s full of Jell-O. Do you get it? A-Net-Full-of-Jell-O. Just think of the original Mickey Mouse Club and you’ll figure out the play on words. Ok, I’ll break it down more – ANET-FULLOFJELLO. Say it that way and you might get it.
5 – Hidden Mickey’s: At this point everyone knows about the hidden Mickey’s in Disney World. They are all over the place. The largest hidden Mickey ever created is no longer viewable. If you have an original map of DHS, turn it upside down. DHS in its original form was a massive hidden Mickey. There are also some hidden Mickey’s that are more than just the famous ears. In the steamboat scene on Splash Mountain you’ll notice the clouds form a little more than just mouse ears.
6 – Don’t leave too fast: People tend to bolt for the doors as soon as a show or attraction is over. If you always do this you’ll miss some classic moments. One example is the Tiki Room. If you stick around long enough you’ll hear the birds make fun of another attraction. One of them says he’s tired and is going to go to the Hall of Presidents to take a nap. It’s not the funniest statement in a Disney World attraction. That has to go to the old guys from the Muppet Show. “Hey look at the guy in the Goofy mask.” “That’s not a mask!” “Sorry lady!”
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Top Ten Disney Music
Everyone real Disney fan owns at least one Disney theme park music CD. Some people own a few. Some people even have multiple versions of the same song, one from before an overhaul and one after.
The key to the music is its tie to a memory. Chances are when you hear that track you can see yourself there. If you played a lot of the Disney music for someone that has never been to Disney Would they’d think it was trash or at least have a lesser reaction.
I thought it would be fun to come up with my top ten. Remember, this is my top ten. It’s not in order of historical importance or anything like that. No hate mail please (not that I’ve ever gotten an email from this blog).
10 – Golden Dream from the American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot
9 – O’Canada from the Canada Pavilion in Epcot (original - no longer played)
8 – Epcot Entrance Medley from Future World in Epcot (no longer played)
7 – Tiki Room (the original) – The Enchanted Tiki Room – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom (no longer played)
6 – One Little Spark – Journey Into Imagination – Imagination Pavilion – Epcot (no longer played)
5 – Listen to the Land (original) – Listen to the Land – Land Pavilion – Epcot (no longer played)
4 – Impressions de France – Impressions de France – France Pavilion - Epcot
3 – Grim Grinning Ghosts – The Haunted Mansion – Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom
2 – Theme from Soarin – Soarin – The Land Pavilion- Epcot
1 – How Do You Do? – Splash Mountain – Frontier Land – Magic Kingdom
Honorable Mention
Yo Ho a Pirates Life for Me – Pirates of the Caribbean – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom
Swisskapolka – Swiss Family Tree House – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom
There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow – Carousal of Progress – Tomorrow Land – Magic Kingdom
The Tree of Life Theme – Discovery Island – Animal Kingdom
Theme to Honey I Shrunk the Audience – Honey I Shrunk the Audience - Imagination Pavilion – Epcot
Spaceship Earth Medley – Spaceship Earth – Furture World – Epcot
It’s Fun To Be Free – World of Motion – Future World – Epcot (no longer played)
Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah – Splash Mountain – Frontier Land – Magic Kingdom
Universe of Energy – Universe of Energy – Future World – Epcot (no longer played)
Electric Water Pageant – Electric Water Pageant – Bay Lake – Magic Kingdom Resort Area
You will notice that some famous tracks are missing. That’s because it’s my list. I think I’d rather listen to a dog bark than listen to “It’s a Small World.” There are also some other oldies that just didn’t make it. Anyone remember – Veggie, Veggie, Fruit, Fruit, Veggie, Fruit…
The key to the music is its tie to a memory. Chances are when you hear that track you can see yourself there. If you played a lot of the Disney music for someone that has never been to Disney Would they’d think it was trash or at least have a lesser reaction.
I thought it would be fun to come up with my top ten. Remember, this is my top ten. It’s not in order of historical importance or anything like that. No hate mail please (not that I’ve ever gotten an email from this blog).
10 – Golden Dream from the American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot
9 – O’Canada from the Canada Pavilion in Epcot (original - no longer played)
8 – Epcot Entrance Medley from Future World in Epcot (no longer played)
7 – Tiki Room (the original) – The Enchanted Tiki Room – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom (no longer played)
6 – One Little Spark – Journey Into Imagination – Imagination Pavilion – Epcot (no longer played)
5 – Listen to the Land (original) – Listen to the Land – Land Pavilion – Epcot (no longer played)
4 – Impressions de France – Impressions de France – France Pavilion - Epcot
3 – Grim Grinning Ghosts – The Haunted Mansion – Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom
2 – Theme from Soarin – Soarin – The Land Pavilion- Epcot
1 – How Do You Do? – Splash Mountain – Frontier Land – Magic Kingdom
Honorable Mention
Yo Ho a Pirates Life for Me – Pirates of the Caribbean – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom
Swisskapolka – Swiss Family Tree House – Adventure Land – Magic Kingdom
There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow – Carousal of Progress – Tomorrow Land – Magic Kingdom
The Tree of Life Theme – Discovery Island – Animal Kingdom
Theme to Honey I Shrunk the Audience – Honey I Shrunk the Audience - Imagination Pavilion – Epcot
Spaceship Earth Medley – Spaceship Earth – Furture World – Epcot
It’s Fun To Be Free – World of Motion – Future World – Epcot (no longer played)
Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah – Splash Mountain – Frontier Land – Magic Kingdom
Universe of Energy – Universe of Energy – Future World – Epcot (no longer played)
Electric Water Pageant – Electric Water Pageant – Bay Lake – Magic Kingdom Resort Area
You will notice that some famous tracks are missing. That’s because it’s my list. I think I’d rather listen to a dog bark than listen to “It’s a Small World.” There are also some other oldies that just didn’t make it. Anyone remember – Veggie, Veggie, Fruit, Fruit, Veggie, Fruit…
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Kermit and the Muppets vs. Mickey and Friends
If you didn’t know, I dislike most parades. If you want to know why, go back and read the post I did on parades. This post is about a parade I would watch.
This parade would have to be in DHS. Here is the premise. Two large trucks are driving towards each other. You can’t see who is driving either one. They stop in front of each other and start honking at each other in front of a big screen. After a few seconds the door opens on the first truck and Mickey steps out. Mickey says he’s on his way to meet Minnie and he needs the other truck to move. The door on the other truck opens and Kermit steps out. He tells Mickey that he needs to move because he’s on his way to pick up Miss Piggy.
After the first exchange Kermit and Mickey say the only way to settle the problem of who needs to move is with a showdown and the people watching will decide who wins.
Mickey pushes a button on his truck. Flaps fall down revealing a colorful sign for the Mickey Mouse Club. The music starts and he leads everyone in a sign along of the Mickey Mouse Club Theme.
Next it’s Kermit’s turn. He pulls a lever, the rear of his truck opens and a bunch of Muppets, including the huge Muppets come out. The music starts and Kermit leads everyone in a sign along of the Muppet Show theme.
Mickey responds by pulling a lever on his truck. The top of the truck opens and Ariel laying on a rock appears and the characters from The Little Mermaid come out the back. The music starts and they lead everyone in a sign along of Under the Sea.
Kermit grabs a cell phone. The next thing you know a second truck pulls up behind the first. The sides fall out, the top opens up and the entire Muppet Band including Animal, appear. They do some famous song and of course it takes a while to stop Animal at the end.
Mickey grabs a cell phone and before you know it a giant mining cart pulls up. The Seven Dwarfs pop out and lead everyone is a sign along of Hi-Hoe.
Kermit makes another call and a bus pulls up with every Muppet not there already. They do a big musical number.
Mickey makes another call and a bus pulls up with dozens of Disney Characters and they do a musical number.
After that a number of the Disney villains show up on the screen behind the two trucks. They say that they’ve had enough and are going to take over Disney World.
The Muppets and Disney Characters group up and lead a cheer to scare the villains away. After that they do a big musical number together and everyone is happy.
Once the final musical number ends Minnie and Miss Piggy pull up in cabs from each end. They are both upset because they never got picked up. When they storm out of their cabs, everyone panics. The Muppets jump back in the bus and burn rubber to get out of there. The Characters do the same thing. The mine cart and band truck both take off too. The remaining characters pile into their respective trucks. Only Kermit, Mickey, Minnie, and Miss Piggy are still out in the open. Minnie and Miss Piggy make some funny comments about their boy friends to each other.
Finally Kermit and Mickey sneak over to one of the trucks and take off. Out raged, Minnie and Miss Piggy jump in the other truck and chase after them. Rizzo the Rat appears on the screen with Remy and they say everyone should scatter before Miss Piggy and Minnie come back and they also say thanks for coming, enjoy the rest of your day!
I’d call the parade “Kermit and the Muppets vs. Mickey and Friends.” It might not be a conventional parade but it would be fun.
This parade would have to be in DHS. Here is the premise. Two large trucks are driving towards each other. You can’t see who is driving either one. They stop in front of each other and start honking at each other in front of a big screen. After a few seconds the door opens on the first truck and Mickey steps out. Mickey says he’s on his way to meet Minnie and he needs the other truck to move. The door on the other truck opens and Kermit steps out. He tells Mickey that he needs to move because he’s on his way to pick up Miss Piggy.
After the first exchange Kermit and Mickey say the only way to settle the problem of who needs to move is with a showdown and the people watching will decide who wins.
Mickey pushes a button on his truck. Flaps fall down revealing a colorful sign for the Mickey Mouse Club. The music starts and he leads everyone in a sign along of the Mickey Mouse Club Theme.
Next it’s Kermit’s turn. He pulls a lever, the rear of his truck opens and a bunch of Muppets, including the huge Muppets come out. The music starts and Kermit leads everyone in a sign along of the Muppet Show theme.
Mickey responds by pulling a lever on his truck. The top of the truck opens and Ariel laying on a rock appears and the characters from The Little Mermaid come out the back. The music starts and they lead everyone in a sign along of Under the Sea.
Kermit grabs a cell phone. The next thing you know a second truck pulls up behind the first. The sides fall out, the top opens up and the entire Muppet Band including Animal, appear. They do some famous song and of course it takes a while to stop Animal at the end.
Mickey grabs a cell phone and before you know it a giant mining cart pulls up. The Seven Dwarfs pop out and lead everyone is a sign along of Hi-Hoe.
Kermit makes another call and a bus pulls up with every Muppet not there already. They do a big musical number.
Mickey makes another call and a bus pulls up with dozens of Disney Characters and they do a musical number.
After that a number of the Disney villains show up on the screen behind the two trucks. They say that they’ve had enough and are going to take over Disney World.
The Muppets and Disney Characters group up and lead a cheer to scare the villains away. After that they do a big musical number together and everyone is happy.
Once the final musical number ends Minnie and Miss Piggy pull up in cabs from each end. They are both upset because they never got picked up. When they storm out of their cabs, everyone panics. The Muppets jump back in the bus and burn rubber to get out of there. The Characters do the same thing. The mine cart and band truck both take off too. The remaining characters pile into their respective trucks. Only Kermit, Mickey, Minnie, and Miss Piggy are still out in the open. Minnie and Miss Piggy make some funny comments about their boy friends to each other.
Finally Kermit and Mickey sneak over to one of the trucks and take off. Out raged, Minnie and Miss Piggy jump in the other truck and chase after them. Rizzo the Rat appears on the screen with Remy and they say everyone should scatter before Miss Piggy and Minnie come back and they also say thanks for coming, enjoy the rest of your day!
I’d call the parade “Kermit and the Muppets vs. Mickey and Friends.” It might not be a conventional parade but it would be fun.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Up
I saw Up this weekend. By far Up is the most mature Pixar film I have ever seen. Sure the are a lot of typical antics that keep kids entertained and laughing but Up has some of the most emotionally powerful scenes I’ve seen in any movie this year.
I have to warn you now, if you have not seen this movie and do not want to know what happens do not read any further. I’m not going to explain everything that happens but I am going to list some of the most powerful scenes in the movie. There are a number of scenes that are so powerful that the audience goes silent. You can hear a pin drop.
1 – The OBGYN – I’m guessing anyone who has tried to have children and can’t would be crushed by this scene. As someone who is not in that position this was still a sad scene.
2 – Ellie collapsing on the hill – When you see this you know that it’s not good. It kind of hits you in the stomach.
3 – The hospital room – Anyone who has had to say good bye to a friend will find this scene hard.
4 – The Funeral – When you see two people who loved each other so much separated it’s very difficult.
5 – The court summons – You know it’s not going to be good and sure enough Carl, who already has lost so much, loses everything he has.
6 – The Pictures – When you see the decorations and pictures from the life Carl and Ellie spent together it really hits home.
7 – When the Russell talks about the curb – When Russell first explains that his parents are divorced it didn’t hit me too much. When he talks about sitting on the curb you can’t help but feel bad for the kid.
8 – When Kevin breaks her leg – It’s one thing that she’s hurt. It’s another when she tries to walk on her injured leg to get back to her kids.
9 – When Carl finally opens the Adventure book – When Carl opens the Adventure book and finds that Ellie had added a number of things after the “Things I’m Going to Do” page, it really hits you. When he found the final message there was hardly a dry eye in the theater.
10 – When Russell’s dad didn’t show up – I was less sad and more outraged. It didn’t last long but it was tough.
11 – The Credits – What a happy ending. To see all the adventures Carl went on to have with Russell was great.
There are a lot of other happy moments that are great and a lot of really funny moments. This is one of the best Disney / Pixar films I have seen. I don’t think it’s fair to compare it to WALL-E. They both excel in different ways and both were amazing films. If you get the chance, go see up.
I have to warn you now, if you have not seen this movie and do not want to know what happens do not read any further. I’m not going to explain everything that happens but I am going to list some of the most powerful scenes in the movie. There are a number of scenes that are so powerful that the audience goes silent. You can hear a pin drop.
1 – The OBGYN – I’m guessing anyone who has tried to have children and can’t would be crushed by this scene. As someone who is not in that position this was still a sad scene.
2 – Ellie collapsing on the hill – When you see this you know that it’s not good. It kind of hits you in the stomach.
3 – The hospital room – Anyone who has had to say good bye to a friend will find this scene hard.
4 – The Funeral – When you see two people who loved each other so much separated it’s very difficult.
5 – The court summons – You know it’s not going to be good and sure enough Carl, who already has lost so much, loses everything he has.
6 – The Pictures – When you see the decorations and pictures from the life Carl and Ellie spent together it really hits home.
7 – When the Russell talks about the curb – When Russell first explains that his parents are divorced it didn’t hit me too much. When he talks about sitting on the curb you can’t help but feel bad for the kid.
8 – When Kevin breaks her leg – It’s one thing that she’s hurt. It’s another when she tries to walk on her injured leg to get back to her kids.
9 – When Carl finally opens the Adventure book – When Carl opens the Adventure book and finds that Ellie had added a number of things after the “Things I’m Going to Do” page, it really hits you. When he found the final message there was hardly a dry eye in the theater.
10 – When Russell’s dad didn’t show up – I was less sad and more outraged. It didn’t last long but it was tough.
11 – The Credits – What a happy ending. To see all the adventures Carl went on to have with Russell was great.
There are a lot of other happy moments that are great and a lot of really funny moments. This is one of the best Disney / Pixar films I have seen. I don’t think it’s fair to compare it to WALL-E. They both excel in different ways and both were amazing films. If you get the chance, go see up.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Disney Announces Who Their Actual Fans Are
Thousands of dejected people pulled off their mouse ears last Friday when Disney made a formal announcement that only certain guests are actually considered fans finally ending the long charade that anyone could be a fan.
“Only D23 members, who are Disney Vacation Club Members, who are Annual Pass holders, who own actual Disney Company shares, who buy the dining plan, who are rabid pin collectors, who own every Disney Movie available on Blu-Ray, and who cruise on our disgustingly over priced cruise line, are official fans,” stated a company representative.
Disney went on to say that there is no such thing as a “Disney Community,” that all unofficial websites are “sub standard,” and that people should “pay more and complain less.”
The announcement infuriated long time Disney fans who found it hard to believe that only the wealthy could qualify to be official fans. Message boards have exploding, new websites have been developed, and one group is trying to start an insurrection to take Disney over from the inside.
There have also been rumors that this is move by Disney was forced by an outside source. Many feel that the outside influence is the dreaded overlord Annette Owens who is trying to weaken the company in an attempt to take it over.
Regardless of the reasoning behind the announcement it is clear that the fallout will continue for some time to come.
“Only D23 members, who are Disney Vacation Club Members, who are Annual Pass holders, who own actual Disney Company shares, who buy the dining plan, who are rabid pin collectors, who own every Disney Movie available on Blu-Ray, and who cruise on our disgustingly over priced cruise line, are official fans,” stated a company representative.
Disney went on to say that there is no such thing as a “Disney Community,” that all unofficial websites are “sub standard,” and that people should “pay more and complain less.”
The announcement infuriated long time Disney fans who found it hard to believe that only the wealthy could qualify to be official fans. Message boards have exploding, new websites have been developed, and one group is trying to start an insurrection to take Disney over from the inside.
There have also been rumors that this is move by Disney was forced by an outside source. Many feel that the outside influence is the dreaded overlord Annette Owens who is trying to weaken the company in an attempt to take it over.
Regardless of the reasoning behind the announcement it is clear that the fallout will continue for some time to come.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
What About Lou?
(The following story is fake...as if you needed me to tell you that)
Anyone who has listened to the WDW Radio Show knows two things. Lou Mongello likes eat and he knows far too much about Disney. At first I thought that Lou just liked Disney trivia and that was how he could remember so much. After all Jim Hill also has a ridiculous amount of Disney knowledge in his head.
After I thought about it something hit me. Jim Hill is a Disney historian and relates events and stories. Lou Mongello can relate endless, useless facts about Disney. That’s not natural. That motivated me to do what I do best. I looked into (J).
It turns out that a few years before Lou graduated law school he was diagnosed with the rare condition know as “brain rot.” People with brain rot can’t remember things and slowly forget what have already learned.
After the diagnosis Lou traveled to China. The Chinese have been experimenting with various genetic therapies and extreme treatments for years. That’s what drew Lou to China. He was going to get a brain transplant.
The Chinese doctors scanned Lou’s brain and uploaded his memories into a computer. After his memories were verified, they attempted to swap out his brain with a suitable donor. The operation failed. In a panic the doctors used the next best thing. They grabbed an orangutan brain and implanted it. Amazingly the brain took hold. The doctors then scanned all of Lou’s memories into the new brain.
After Lou woke up everything seemed fine. He responded well to the entire battery of tests the doctors put him through. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief until they took him outside. As soon as Lou was outside he started climbing trees and swinging from one branch to another. No one was able to get him out of the trees. When ever someone tried he’d screech and jump to another tree.
One of the doctors grabbed a tranquilizer gun and shot Lou in the butt. Within a couple of minutes Lou passed out, fell out of the tree, and landed on one of the doctors pinning him to the ground. It took ten minutes to get Lou off of the doctor and back inside the building.
The doctors kept Lou in a medical coma until they could figure out what to do. One of them came up with an idea. They would implant a large hard drive into the orangutan brain and program it as a storage device and a program that would block the orangutan traits. Ever since, Lou has been able to remember an insane amount of information.
Lou decided to try and earn some of the medical expenses back by writing a couple of Disney Trivia books and a yearly trivia calendar. They were somewhat successful. It seemed like everything was going to be fine until it was discovered that the hard drive started leaking. There was no memory loss or other adverse symptoms apparent. However, Lou developed an enormous appetite. He started eating everything that wasn’t nailed down. At his worse he ate four buckets of KFC in one sitting. He had the runs for a week after that binge.
Lou started working out to avoid gaining a ton of weight. The only problem is the hunger keeps increasing. Last month Lou ate 14 turkey legs in ten minutes and then washed it down with a gallon of coke. An hour later he ate a dozen Dole Whips and then passed out from brain freeze.
It is estimated that within five years Lou will have gained enough weight to appear on Jerry Springer and then do the entire talk show circuit. In the mean time Lou has been training to join the competitive eating circuit and may enter the 4th of July hotdog eating contest at Coney Island, NY.
One thing that has seemed to help is heat. It helps to curb Lou’s appetite. This explains his recent move to the Orlando area. Then again he used to live in NJ. That would be reason enough to move.
Anyone who has listened to the WDW Radio Show knows two things. Lou Mongello likes eat and he knows far too much about Disney. At first I thought that Lou just liked Disney trivia and that was how he could remember so much. After all Jim Hill also has a ridiculous amount of Disney knowledge in his head.
After I thought about it something hit me. Jim Hill is a Disney historian and relates events and stories. Lou Mongello can relate endless, useless facts about Disney. That’s not natural. That motivated me to do what I do best. I looked into (J).
It turns out that a few years before Lou graduated law school he was diagnosed with the rare condition know as “brain rot.” People with brain rot can’t remember things and slowly forget what have already learned.
After the diagnosis Lou traveled to China. The Chinese have been experimenting with various genetic therapies and extreme treatments for years. That’s what drew Lou to China. He was going to get a brain transplant.
The Chinese doctors scanned Lou’s brain and uploaded his memories into a computer. After his memories were verified, they attempted to swap out his brain with a suitable donor. The operation failed. In a panic the doctors used the next best thing. They grabbed an orangutan brain and implanted it. Amazingly the brain took hold. The doctors then scanned all of Lou’s memories into the new brain.
After Lou woke up everything seemed fine. He responded well to the entire battery of tests the doctors put him through. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief until they took him outside. As soon as Lou was outside he started climbing trees and swinging from one branch to another. No one was able to get him out of the trees. When ever someone tried he’d screech and jump to another tree.
One of the doctors grabbed a tranquilizer gun and shot Lou in the butt. Within a couple of minutes Lou passed out, fell out of the tree, and landed on one of the doctors pinning him to the ground. It took ten minutes to get Lou off of the doctor and back inside the building.
The doctors kept Lou in a medical coma until they could figure out what to do. One of them came up with an idea. They would implant a large hard drive into the orangutan brain and program it as a storage device and a program that would block the orangutan traits. Ever since, Lou has been able to remember an insane amount of information.
Lou decided to try and earn some of the medical expenses back by writing a couple of Disney Trivia books and a yearly trivia calendar. They were somewhat successful. It seemed like everything was going to be fine until it was discovered that the hard drive started leaking. There was no memory loss or other adverse symptoms apparent. However, Lou developed an enormous appetite. He started eating everything that wasn’t nailed down. At his worse he ate four buckets of KFC in one sitting. He had the runs for a week after that binge.
Lou started working out to avoid gaining a ton of weight. The only problem is the hunger keeps increasing. Last month Lou ate 14 turkey legs in ten minutes and then washed it down with a gallon of coke. An hour later he ate a dozen Dole Whips and then passed out from brain freeze.
It is estimated that within five years Lou will have gained enough weight to appear on Jerry Springer and then do the entire talk show circuit. In the mean time Lou has been training to join the competitive eating circuit and may enter the 4th of July hotdog eating contest at Coney Island, NY.
One thing that has seemed to help is heat. It helps to curb Lou’s appetite. This explains his recent move to the Orlando area. Then again he used to live in NJ. That would be reason enough to move.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Things That Amaze Me: Volume Two – The Monorail
When the Monorail was built it cost a million dollars a mile. It was an amazing technology and seemed like something out of a sci-fi movie. Years later little it’s only gotten better. Not only does the monorail look like something from the future, it now also instills a great deal of emotion in people.
You know you’re in Disney World when you step on a monorail. When I was a kid I rode it so much that I memorized the Spanish warning that plays before the doors closed. I didn’t know any other Spanish and I’m not sure how that would have helped me if I was stuck in a Spanish country but I thought it was important to remember.
Over the years the look of the Monorail hasn’t changed a lot but the technology has continually advanced. Instead of the old buttons and levers they now have a high tech operating system. They’ve also gotten greener over the years. They’ve always been green. People forget that they are electric. There are not many public transit systems in the US that move that many people with no fossil fuels.
The Monorails come in a number of colors. Some people go nuts over that. They have to own all the models and collect all the pins for the different colors. Visibly I believe that’s the only difference between the different Monorails.
The other amazing thing is the speed. If seems like you are going fast but you’re really not. I don’t think you ever go faster than 45 miles an hour. However, they are faster than taking the bus. The buses have to stop at lights and yield to traffic. The Monorail stops for nothing, unless of course one of the tires pops and then bursts into flames. That’s happened before. If you’re afraid of heights you wouldn’t like that. You have to climb out the roof and onto the tracks. If Matt Hochberg reads this he’ll never ride the Monorail again.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
How Does Deb Wills Do It?
Deb Wills runs Allears.net. All Ears is a massive website that houses an unbelievable amount of Disney information. All Ears is the website Disney should have made and should be aspiring to match.
How does she do it? There is just so much information on there that it boggles the mind. It seems like it’s just impossible to create, never mind maintain such a database.
Deb has a few secrets!
First of all Deb has a small army of helpers including everyone’s favorite cyborg – Mike Scopa. All of the bloggers and researchers have banded together done crank out an amazing amount of data every year.
Even considering that it still seems inadequate to explain the end result. That’s because of Deb’s second secret.
After lengthy research (nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more) I discovered that Deb Wills is a fake name. Maybe not fake in the true sense of the word. Maybe calling it a screen name or pen name is better.
For security reasons, Deb has to hide her real identity. Many people don’t know this but she is in a form of the witness protection program. Years ago Deb worked for Disney. She was rather famous and Disney didn’t want to let her go. Deb wanted to move on but Disney refused and threatened “action.” Not legal action but “action.”
Many people don’t know this but King Louie is actually an elite hit man. Disney pays him well to ensure no one escapes unless Disney wants them to escape. The code word for what he does is “action.”
Knowing there was no easy way out, Deb used her talents, changed her appearance, and said goodbye to her dear friends Flora and Fauna and then disappeared.
If you haven’t figured it out already Deb’s real name is Merryweather. That’s right, Deb is the blue fairy from Sleeping Beauty and that explains how Deb does what Deb does.
She uses her fairy magic to augment all of the hard work her helpers do.
You might think that’s odd because you’ve seen Merryweather in the parks. That is an imposter. It’s no the real Merryweather.
The fact that Deb is Merryweather also explains why Annette Owens has not been able to conquer All Ears. Despite Annette’s army and having the mind control known as Mouse World Radio under her control, she cannot overcome Deb’s magical prowess!
How does she do it? There is just so much information on there that it boggles the mind. It seems like it’s just impossible to create, never mind maintain such a database.
Deb has a few secrets!
First of all Deb has a small army of helpers including everyone’s favorite cyborg – Mike Scopa. All of the bloggers and researchers have banded together done crank out an amazing amount of data every year.
Even considering that it still seems inadequate to explain the end result. That’s because of Deb’s second secret.
After lengthy research (nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more) I discovered that Deb Wills is a fake name. Maybe not fake in the true sense of the word. Maybe calling it a screen name or pen name is better.
For security reasons, Deb has to hide her real identity. Many people don’t know this but she is in a form of the witness protection program. Years ago Deb worked for Disney. She was rather famous and Disney didn’t want to let her go. Deb wanted to move on but Disney refused and threatened “action.” Not legal action but “action.”
Many people don’t know this but King Louie is actually an elite hit man. Disney pays him well to ensure no one escapes unless Disney wants them to escape. The code word for what he does is “action.”
Knowing there was no easy way out, Deb used her talents, changed her appearance, and said goodbye to her dear friends Flora and Fauna and then disappeared.
If you haven’t figured it out already Deb’s real name is Merryweather. That’s right, Deb is the blue fairy from Sleeping Beauty and that explains how Deb does what Deb does.
She uses her fairy magic to augment all of the hard work her helpers do.
You might think that’s odd because you’ve seen Merryweather in the parks. That is an imposter. It’s no the real Merryweather.
The fact that Deb is Merryweather also explains why Annette Owens has not been able to conquer All Ears. Despite Annette’s army and having the mind control known as Mouse World Radio under her control, she cannot overcome Deb’s magical prowess!
Monday, June 1, 2009
The Gap
People who read this blog know that I went to Disney World in December of 2008. That was my first trip in ten years. Why was there such gap between trips?
I graduated high school in the spring of 1998. I didn’t really find a job that fit me until a year later. It goes without saying that Disney wasn’t an option during that time. When I started at my job I barely had two pennies to rub together. I could get by but not much else. When you don’t make much, Disney isn’t really an option.
I got married two years later and for the next few years our vacations were cruises. Disney was never an option during that period. One big reason for that is that my wife doesn’t like Disney. She says she does but if any Disney fan engaged her in a conversation about Disney they would quickly realize that she’s not a fan. She went once when she was a teenager with her sister, brother in law, and her niece. They didn’t stay on property. She wasn’t really impressed by the experience.
I brought up Disney a few times over the years but always got the same response. She didn’t say no but she didn’t have to. Her look said it all.
In December of 2007 I booked a trip for December of 2008. That gave me a year to try and sell my wife on the idea. I managed to get her to somewhat excited by selling her on the dining.
She made fun of me for booking the Hoop Dee Doo. She kept calling it the Whoop Dee Friggin Doo. She kept doing that until I informed her that it was all you drink wine or sangria. That changed her tune a little.
We did the trip and we stuffed ourselves silly. We had some good dining experiences, some bad dining experiences, and some average dining experiences. I also ran her into the ground. She was so wrecked by the experience that she had to take another vacation a couple months later to recover.
Did she have fun? In some ways she did. It wasn’t her idea of a vacation. She liked the food and did end up enjoying the Hoop Dee Doo.
Are we going to go back? I wanted to take advantage of the deals they are running in the fall however; with my wife’s work it’s impossible. It would take an act of god to get me to go back during the Christmas season. Summer is not an option. The crowds and heat would kill me. That leaves January to April. Take out school vacations and spring break and the window is small.
This year we are going on a cruise. For a Disney fan like me that’s hard to get excited about. Honestly, I get far more excited thinking about a Disney fantasy then a cruise that is completely paid for. I don’t know why. I’m sure the cruise will be fun but any Disney fan knows it’s not Disney.
Knowing the costs and people involved, it wouldn’t surprise me if another ten years passed before I make it back to Disney. Until then I have the podcasts, websites, pictures, and videos to keep me going.
I graduated high school in the spring of 1998. I didn’t really find a job that fit me until a year later. It goes without saying that Disney wasn’t an option during that time. When I started at my job I barely had two pennies to rub together. I could get by but not much else. When you don’t make much, Disney isn’t really an option.
I got married two years later and for the next few years our vacations were cruises. Disney was never an option during that period. One big reason for that is that my wife doesn’t like Disney. She says she does but if any Disney fan engaged her in a conversation about Disney they would quickly realize that she’s not a fan. She went once when she was a teenager with her sister, brother in law, and her niece. They didn’t stay on property. She wasn’t really impressed by the experience.
I brought up Disney a few times over the years but always got the same response. She didn’t say no but she didn’t have to. Her look said it all.
In December of 2007 I booked a trip for December of 2008. That gave me a year to try and sell my wife on the idea. I managed to get her to somewhat excited by selling her on the dining.
She made fun of me for booking the Hoop Dee Doo. She kept calling it the Whoop Dee Friggin Doo. She kept doing that until I informed her that it was all you drink wine or sangria. That changed her tune a little.
We did the trip and we stuffed ourselves silly. We had some good dining experiences, some bad dining experiences, and some average dining experiences. I also ran her into the ground. She was so wrecked by the experience that she had to take another vacation a couple months later to recover.
Did she have fun? In some ways she did. It wasn’t her idea of a vacation. She liked the food and did end up enjoying the Hoop Dee Doo.
Are we going to go back? I wanted to take advantage of the deals they are running in the fall however; with my wife’s work it’s impossible. It would take an act of god to get me to go back during the Christmas season. Summer is not an option. The crowds and heat would kill me. That leaves January to April. Take out school vacations and spring break and the window is small.
This year we are going on a cruise. For a Disney fan like me that’s hard to get excited about. Honestly, I get far more excited thinking about a Disney fantasy then a cruise that is completely paid for. I don’t know why. I’m sure the cruise will be fun but any Disney fan knows it’s not Disney.
Knowing the costs and people involved, it wouldn’t surprise me if another ten years passed before I make it back to Disney. Until then I have the podcasts, websites, pictures, and videos to keep me going.
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