To Boldly Go...

This past Friday I finally got myself to a theater to see the new "Star Trek" movie. I am not a "Trekkie," though my mother is. It's odd I'm not a trekkie as she went into labor with me after watching an episode of "Star Trek: The Next Generation." But there are a few movies you know you have to see and this one was one of them.

The creative team has called this movie a "reboot," so it is not necessary to know the franchise in depth. The story follows a young James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) as their childhoods--Kirk being raised by his mother after his father's heroic sacrifice and Spock balancing his human and Vulcan sides--lead them to Starfleet. Eventually, their paths cross aboard the USS Enterprise, along with Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy (Karl Urban), Lt. Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Hikaru Sulu (John Cho) and Pavel Chekov (Anton Yelchin). After an event that changes the course of Star Trek history, Spock and Kirk fight for command of the ship and to fight the Romulans. Along the way, Scotty (Simon Pegg) and an old ally join them to aid this fight as Spock and Kirk finally form a friendship.

The movie grabs you from the first scene and holds you until the end. In fact, I was disappointed to realize we were at the climax of the movie and felt it was too soon. I was surprised to leave the theater over two hours later. The casting was spot-on for this movie, both talent-wise and appearance wise. There is a scene where we can compare Quinto against Nimoy (both as Spock) and it is apparent that the two greatly resemble each other. The other cast members are able to capture the spirit of their original portrayers and at the same time, recreate them as well. There are a few moments that will surprise even the most casual Star Trek viewer, such as the big event that shapes the movie's premise.

While the cast was stellar, the heart of the movie was Pine and Quinto's chemistry as the epitome of buddies--Kirk and Spock. Yelchin was also wonderful as Chekov, and the scene of a giddy Chekov running down to help with a difficult transport is particularly memorable. At the showing I went, some of the classic Star Trek references were applauded, like Bones' "Dammit, I'm a doctor, not a (fill in appropriate title here)."

I'd highly recommend it for anyone looking for a good movie and who I bunked with under that rock housing the people who hadn't seen it yet.

Only You...Three

Last week on “Any Dream Will Do”: It was Memorial Day weekend and so BBC-America didn’t air a new episode, opting for “A Fish Called Wanda.” Two weeks ago, Craig was booted off, much to the despair of Number One Fan Bill. Four Josephs remain, who will turn in his coat at the end of tonight’s (not-so) live semi-final? Let’s find out.

Graham suit watch: Purple suit and gold shirt. At least it isn’t purple and green. Ooh, Barney flashbacks. Seriously, John and Denise, jazz hands? Anyway, the Final Four enter to perform “Jacob and Sons/Joseph’s Coat”…Oh, this one again? Look, I’m sorry I thought last time’s arrangement was bad. But you couldn’t have done another song? “Stone the Crows” maybe? Either way, the four boys are spectacular. Look, it’s Antony and Chris B! Hi, boys! Graham reminds us that tonight is the last time Webber can save someone from elimination. He introduces the rest of the panel (John, Jazz Hands, Bill and Zoe). Wait, did the audience just boo Webber? The power cuts out and Webber admits he’d be happy to see any of the remaining four win.

Graham reminds us that Joseph ended up into slavery before turning it over to Keith. He’s thrilled to be in the semi-finals. Ooh, Keith in a loincloth. I still haven’t forgiven the producers for denying us that Joseph mission. Keith performs “Could It Be Magic.” Webber wants Keith to use his eyes and then he and Graham exchange Joe puns. Where are the tomatoes when you need them? Keith has a wonderful voice, especially for someone so young. He goes before the judges and is just happy to be there. He says he wants to hear “Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic” from John. Does a pretty good American accent. John responds with his Welsh accent with “Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.” He says he judges the boys by the goosebumps on Denise’s arms. Okay…Bill loves Keith and how he engages an audience but to work hard on the songs. Denise thinks Keith is fantastic and then discusses her hairy arms. Webber thinks Keith has it and needs only one thing, but he doesn’t say what.

Coming Up: Ben’s shy? What?

Ooh, they are bringing over “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?” I didn’t see it, so this will be exciting. And here I was worried about what I would recap now that the regular season is over.

Up next is Ben. He celebrates making it into the semi-final and recalls how close he was to getting eliminated. He has loved entertaining people. We’ve loved being entertained, Ben. He sings “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz. I think Webber is remembering Austin’s performance from “Grease: You’re the One That I Want.” And Michael Jackson wasn’t the only one who sang this song, Webber. Now, go apologize to Stephanie Miller. A very upbeat song that allows Ben to be an entertainer, though I don’t think he has the soul needed to fully perform that song—not like Austin, who blew the audience away with his version.

Ben goes in front of the judges and he admits he’s a very shy person. But he knows going on stage is just doing his job. Graham goes to Zoe, who is surprised to hear he is shy. She says he is a showman and a star. BUT…She is not sure he can entertain while just sitting still. Ben admits he’s worried about the pressure and Denise says that there is no more pressure than an opening night. John defends Ben, saying he has the star quality they are looking for. Bill says his gut doesn’t think Ben is Joseph. John puts it into the public’s hands. I love it when the judges fight. Webber wanted easing on down the road.

Coming Up: Can Lewis handle bad reviews?

Graham says the Josephs have been teamed up to sing classic Webber songs. Keith and Ben go up first. We see them meeting Webber to practice their song. He calls Keith a strong singer; Ben is also called a good singer. Ben and Keith talk about Ben’s weak vocals. (Holy crap, who would give Octo-Mom her own show? Oh, good, no network yet). The boys sing “Only You” from “Starlight Express.” You know, for a show about a TRAIN, it has some great songs. I think I’m going to have to make a visit to my favorite supplier for the two singing this song. Now, about the performance, while Keith is clearly the stronger singer, I think Ben is the stronger performer and actor. He steals the song. And they both still look like they could play teenage versions of Jack and Ianto on Torchwood.

Graham says he was hoping for skates. Webber praises both for following his directions. And for Ben playing an older man. Denise is asked who had the advantage. She says her eyes went to Ben, but ear went to Keith. Why does Ben always argue back? Shut. Up. Take the compliments. John agrees with Denise and praises Ben for singing a ballad.

Lewis follows the duet. He is happy to have made the semifinal. Lewis talks about everyone seeing him cry. Oh, yes, we’ve seen you cry. He says he’s going to go for his dream. He performs “Sweet Caroline,” which is already on my iPod. The people I sat with at my cousin’s wedding were impressed my sister and I knew all the words. Okay, everyone, clap along. I don’t know if the tune fits with his vocals. But he can hold a stage. He finishes strong.

Graham says that Lewis’ journey took a toll—they show a picture of Lewis with gray hair. He then reveals that was during the Joseph mission. He’ll be 18 by the final. Graham starts with John, who liked his performance. He still wants to see some fire. He asks if Lewis wants to be Joseph or if he wants the fame. Lewis responds he wants to be Joseph. Bill says it’s about inspiration. And then about growth and then about direction. Point, Bill? Oh, I think it was a thumbs up. Denise follows. She and Zoe agree he has improved and Denise says she saw the fire. Graham pre-empts another judges’ fight by going to Webber. He says he’s worried about if Lewis woke to find horrible reviews. Bill says he’ll get good reviews.

Coming Up: Something goes wrong in Lee’s performance.

Oh, crap. Recapping Maria means another casting episode. Blech, I hate them.

The last Joseph up is Lee. He talks about being an understudy. He wants a part of his own.  *Sighs at own pun.* Aww, he’s crying. He says he’s ready to play Joseph. Lee sings “Living on a Prayer.” Woot! Bon Jovi! I’ve seen them—at Zootopia 2002. Though he had some annoying fans in back of us who started screaming for him…while Celine Dion was still on stage. Anyway, sing it, Lee! Come on, you know the words “We’re halfway there, woo-ooh, living on a prayer…” Wait, where’s the second part about Gina wanting to run away? Is he behind the music? It’s still a great performance. He gets thrown off again but recovers for his big finish. What was up with the song?

Lee says he wants the part. Zoe goes first and asks what happened there. She says its okay for him to be scared and says he covered himself brilliant. But she doesn’t praise the performance. Craig’s Number One Fan mentions his golden boy and then praises Lee, calling him an international star. Webber corrects Zoe’s guess that Lee fell out of step with track and says the band is live. He praises Lee.

Coming Up: Zoe loves the duet.

Graham introduces the next duet, sung by Lewis and Lee. Lewis is worried that singing with Lee isn’t a cursed as in the trio, both Craig and Daniel were voted off. He hopes there isn’t a curse of the Lee, like there is a curse of the coat. They sing a song from “Evita.” They get “O What a Circus.” Ladies and gentlemen, the competition. Both hold their own on the stage and have great vocals. I think, though, that Lee handles the fast part at the end (Sing You Fools) better than Lewis.

Graham asks Webber about the performance. He says that he was impressed by the boys as he swats away a fly. Zoe calls them kicking.

Coming Up: Each guy is Joseph.

Graham cues the “shameless self-marketing” so the boys could get the public’s vote. Lewis is Joseph. Lee is Joseph. Keith is Joseph. Ben is Joseph. Got the picture? Graham talks to the boys as if they were on his talk show. Ben and Lewis talk about being in the sing-offs and being confident. Lee and Keith talk about never being in the sing-off and agree they aren’t in a secure position. The boys get ready for their group number. Appropriately, it’s “Under Pressure.” You know, these boys could be their own boy band…if it were the 90s, when boy bands were cool *Hugs Backstreet Boys poster.*

Coming Up: JOSEPH MISSION!

Graham introduces the Joseph Mission—the boys go to visit the cast of the Lord of the Rings musical. They enter through the stage door and go to wardrobe. James Loye, who plays “Frodo” shows them around. He shows them his dressing room. Ben holds a pair of Hobbit feet and compares them to Keith’s feet. Ben asks one of the actors how they would feel if someone like them, a reality show winner, came into their production. He responds that the person would have to prove themselves. They give Lewis Gandalf’s hair and he says he knows what he’ll look like at 65. He plans on being an elderly hippie?

Not Joseph: Zoe says it’s either Ben or Lewis and chooses Ben. Bill chooses Ben. Denise chooses Lewis. John says his choice is Lewis. Two Bens and Two Lewises.

Coming Up: Elimination.

ELIMINATION! Graham reminds us this is the last time Webber can save a Joseph. Lee could be Joseph and is through to the final. YES! Lewis is in the sing off and goes to stand by Graham. That leaves Ben and Keith. Keith joins Lee in the final, meaning Ben is in the sing off again. Lee and Keith hug. If it were up to the public, Ben would be out. But he could still be saved. They have the boys sing “I Dreamed a Dream.” Good luck. Webber tells the boys to dream big. Oh, this is so hard, they are both good. Oh I do not envy Webber. Good luck, Andrew!

The boys go before Webber. He says that he worked with them both the past week as actors and singers. He says he’s considering that and chooses Lewis. On first watch, I wasn’t sure if it was a wise move seeing how England seemed to be in a grudge match with Webber and Lewis. Upon second viewing, it seems it was the same with Ben. He says he’s had the time of his life on the show. He goes to sing his farewell.

The final three sing “Poor, Poor Joseph” and Ben launches into “Close Every Door.” Lewis and Keith defrock Ben before he runs up the stairs. He sings the last words and cracks. And that’s when I thought, “Yeah, Webber made the right call.”

Still Could Be Joseph: 

Rob

Lee

Chris B

Daniel

Craig

Keith

Seamus

Antony

Lewis

Johndeep

Ben

Chris C

Next week: It’s the (not-so) live final! Who will be Joseph? Lewis? Lee? Keith? Find out!

Quote of the Episode:

“The fate of his musical is in your hand…Is he mad?”—Graham.

Agree with the Final Three? Think that Ben just needed more time like me? Looking forward to the final? 

67 Days to Go: Coronado Springs Resort

Since I finished off the value resorts, I thought I'd make entry number four in my Disney hotels series another moderate resort like the Caribbean.

Coronado Springs Resort is designed to evoke a Southwestern spa resort. It is also designed to evoke a Mexican heritage, shared in the Southwest United States. The rooms come with double queen beds, a TV, coffee makers (ooh, another Disney tip), refrigerators, and other amenities that are making me wonder if I want to stay in Pop Century.

Besides finding various food in the market place, there is also the Maya Grill. There are several pools, complete with their own snack bars. A fitness center and spa is also located on property in case you want to work away all the time spent in the parks. Believe me, they can be draining.

You know, doing these series and seeing how short some of these entries are because I haven't been to the resort have made me make a resolution: I will stay at all Disney resorts. I promise.

68 Days to Go: Poll Results!

Though only one person voted in my poll, I'll still report the winner. And it was the Magic Kingdom.

Dad, was that you? I know it's his favorite park.

Keep your eyes open for some future polls and if you have any suggestions, I'm all ears. (Pun intended).

A Trip to the Second City

This week, Samantha Brown spends a weekend in the Windy City, Chicago!

We start with Sam biking on Friday. Sam comments about how she is going to get letters about her not wearing a helmet. True, Sam, true. She goes to see some of Chicago’s art, including a sculpture dubbed “The Beam.” She goes to a fountain complete with giant faces watching you frolic. Sam meets up with other cyclists, just talking in one of Chicago’s plazas. They also go biking on a route, which only a few people know. Sam meets him and the bikers are off!

Sam goes to replace the calories she just burned off and gets to use a fire torch on meat at Moto. The kitchen looks like a science lab but everything is used to save energy. They are being eco-friendly and delicious! Sam is surprised to see roadkill on the menu and moves quickly to desert. Which is a purple pancake. Sam makes a grapefruit sorbet over frozen nitrogen. It looks like the frozen balls the people at the Liberty Science Center like to break during their frozen nitrogen demonstrations. Sam finishes her meal, gets a plate instructing her to eat her cigar.

We come back to Saturday morning. Sam goes to visit Second City, that comedy club where many comedians got their start. Despite not having her hand up, Sam volunteers to be part of the improv. Sam and partner Patrick get a scene in a graveyard, on a first date. Sam is pretty good at this improv stuff, the audience loves the duo. Now, on to Sam’s ongoing love affair with alcohol, she goes to have a beer. They challenge her to name the country of origin. She challenges the owner, who impresses her. The bartender says the locals are the rowdiest of the bar’s international clientele.

At sundown on Saturday, Sam goes to a steakhouse. She gets to visit the meat locker. She learns that they let the meat age, like a fine wine. Personally, that makes me a bit sick. I think I’d rather have fresh meat…wait, I don’t eat beef when I go out. Don’t age the chicken and I’m fine. Sam gets a feast to relish. She continues her night with a visit to Buddy Guy’s Blues Club. The performer tells Sam about the difference in Chicago blues, saying the weather helps—particularly how cold the city gets.

Sunday morning dawns over Chicago as Sam makes her way to Wrigley Field. Actually, she’s across the way from Wrigley Field, on a rooftop decked out as extra stadium seats. The fans don’t know who the Cubs are playing nor that at this point, they were in first place. But, as someone else says, not for long. The Chicago Cubs are the new Boston Red Sox since 2004. Sam goes to get a hot dog. I don’t blame her. I may not eat beef when I go out, but when I went to see the Staten Island Yankees, I got a hot dog. What’s a baseball game without one? And she’s probably finding out where that other woman got her white wine. As the weekend ends, Sam still defends New York.

Quote of the Episode:
“It’s like a wine tasting and we all know how much I like my wine.”—Sam. Yes, Sam, we do.

Next week: Boston! Hey, I’ve been there! Looks like we're just getting one show per week now.

69 Days to Go: The All-Stars

In my third entry to my Disney hotels series, I discuss the other three value resorts: All-Stars Sports, All-Stars Music and All-Stars Movies.

Each resort is dedicated to a different theme, spelled out clearly in its title. However, the music resort focuses specifically on five different sytles: Calypso, jazz, Broadway, rock and country music. The rooms are set up the same: two double beds, tv, and a bathroom. I have never been to these resorts--not even for a visit, unlike other resorts on Disney property--so I cannot expound any more.

70 Days to Go: Disney Memories (#1)

I figured I'd share with you some of my favorite Disney memories, every ten posts.

The first one is actually one of my earliest, from when I was a little girl. It's of an Epcot restaurant called the Odyssey. Designed in a futuristic decor, the restaurant also provided entertainment. You could watch Disney characters (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, etc) dance around in space suits that looked like they were made from tin foil. Since I was so young when I went, I can hardly remember the music or the food served, but I do remember that I loved to go there. And that lasts longer than anything else. It tugs my heart every time I pass the building that housed the restaurant, now vacant.

Dear Disney, Bring it back! Love, Me.

71 Days to Go: Caribbean Beach Resort

In entry number two for my Disney hotels series, I go to another hotel with significance to me: the Caribbean Beach Resort. My family and I stayed here for a couple years and then I stayed here with my class on our senior trip.

The Caribbean Beach Resort, like Pop Century, has rooms divided into sections. However, this time, they are named after islands in the Caribbean. Last time I stayed there, we were in Aruba. They are designed to look like hotels you would find in the islands, complete with their own man-made beaches next to a lake. There is also an island that serves as a bird sanctuary, which you most likely will have to go through to get to Old Port Royale, the market place. The market place has various food places and a gift shop. There is a pizza place in Old Port Royale which will deliver to your room.

The room contains two beds, a TV, a table and a bathroom. You can get adjoining rooms.

One of our running jokes in my family is that we no matter which island we stayed on, it was always the last one the bus went to. Of course, that changed once I was in a group of 40-something teenage girls. We'd board the bus and the driver would turn around to ask us where we were going. And Aruba was then always the first stop.

The Caribbean Beach Resort is classified as a moderate resort and an Epcot resort, meaning its close to Epcot (it's actually closer to Hollywoodland in my opinion).

72 Days to Go: Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue

Located in the grounds of the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, a show for families of every sort.

Here is an article written by MousePlanet columnist Steve Russo about the show and whether it is worth viewing. (Note: He says that you can take the "Boone" and "Crockett" buses. I don't know how old Mr. Russo's map is, but those buses were discontinued nearly a decade ago. It would now be either the purple or orange bus).

The show plays at Pioneer Hall, located next to Trail's End, and home to Melvin the Moose from the Country Bear Jamboree. As you dine on either fried chicken or prime ribs, you are entertained by the Pioneer Hall Players: Flora, Jim Handy, Claire de Loon, Johnny, Dolly and my favorite Six Bits Slocum. They perform songs from America's vaudeville and western traditions and involve the audience greatly. My personal favorite number is "Clementine," particularly for Six Bits' contributions.

And children will love their parts in the show--let's just say it involves making a lot of noise.

So, if your iternary and budget allow, plan for a visit to the Hoop-Dee-Doo revue.

73 Days to Go: Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

Welcome to my hotel series! My family may prefer to stay at the Pop Century Resort for our own reasons, but there are plenty of other hotels. And they may prove more suitable for your trip.

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground was our old stomping grounds and one of my favorites. The rooms are actually cabins set up in loops off the main road. Each cabin contains a kitchen (complete with refrigerator and stove), a living room with a Murphy bed, a bathroom, and a bedroom with a king and bunk beds. One can easily fit a family of about six to eight (or just a party of that many).

The resort is set in a beautiful outdoor setting, complete with a view of the lake. There are trials that you can bike along or take a golf cart as well. Guests can also rent jetskis or boats to go on the lake with. Each loop comes wth their own pools (where laundry services are also located) for a swim. My family loved to go there for a late night, post-park swim.

The Trading Post serves a store for souvenirs to a grocery. Located near the Trading Post is Trail's End, a buffet serving good old American food. My sister loves their ribs, I love their fried chicken.

Tomorow: The Hoop-de-Doo Revue, also housed in Fort Wilderness.

74 Days to Go: Downtown Disney

Are you a shopaholic? Do you have a long list of people to buy souvenirs for and don't want to visit every park to get something for them? Well, there's a solution: Downtown Disney.

Downtown Disney is home to the World of Disney, a store with every souvenir for everyone on your list. Many things that are sold in the various stores throughout the parks are also sold here. If you have a AAA card, you can also get a discount on your purchases. If you need Christmas souvenirs, like how my family buys a yearly Disney Christmas ornament for our tree, Disney's Days of Christmas store is your destination. Legoworld and Ghirardelli's Chocolates are also located in this part of the World.

If you are a collector of the Disney Trading Pins, and I mean you have books of these things like my cousins, then you will love the Disney Pin Trading Hut. If you are new to the world of Disney pins, this also a good place to begin your collection, even if it ends up being a dozen or so pins on a few different lanyards like mine.

Downtown Disney was also the site of Pleasure Island, which was several night clubs with various themes. However, they closed last September. Disney plans to put in more stores and restaurants in their place.

The West End of Downtown Disney hosts La Nouba, a show presented by Cirque de Soleil. There is also an AMC movie theater--but who honestly goes to Disney to go to the movies? A giant Virgin Megastore also is located in the West End. The big attraction here, though, is Disney Quest--a five floor building which hosts many interactive games children can play. Admission, like most of these, is separate from your Disney ticket (though admission to Disney Quest is on the premium annual pass). A favorite of mine in Disney Quest is the Cyber Space Mountain, which allows you to not only make your own roller coaster but ride it as well courtesy of a hydraulic chamber.

Downtown Disney is also good for dining options, but I'd recommend the Earl of Sandwich. It serves delicious sandwiches and salads. A warning--this place is very popular and has limited seating. My father usually leaves his order with one of us and then goes to stake out a table.

So I would definitely plan a day to go to Downtown Disney. And stay tuned for Disney Secret #2 (coming soon--I don't know how often I want to give these out) for a way to make shopping easier.

Who This Man Could Be...

The results of my poll are in! And you're favorite "Any Dream Will Do" judge, with 75% of the votes, is John Barrowman! Denise van Outen came in second, with 25% of the vote. There was no love for Bill Kenwright, Zoe Tyler or Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Once again, BBC-America did not air "Any Dream Will Do" today, airing "A Fish Called Wanda" instead. The (not-so) live semi-final airs next week. Tune in!

75 Days to Go: Disney Secret (#1)

Now, most people don't like to reveal their vacation secrets. I'm one of them--if you know our secrets, than that works against us doesn't it? But I'm feeling generous with a few of them.

This is one for you late risers. Of course, my usual definition of "early rising" is 12 noon, so "late rising" in Disney gets shifted to about 10:00 AM. The parks open at 9 AM each day, unless one has the extra magical hour in the morning. For Epcot, though, only half the park opens at 9. The World Showcase opens later, at 11 AM. And there is the secret!

Because Future World opens first, everyone who got there early is already wandering around this part of Epcot. They are waiting on lines, have Fast Passes to redeem, etc. If you arrive around 11 AM, you can Fast Pass Soarin' first, because that will be a three hour delay anyway. At 11 AM, make your way to the World Showcase. Because everyone is busy with Future World, the World Showcase will be fairly empty for the next couple hours. Lines are non-existant and you can find a seat for eating. By the time you finish your trip around the world and head to Future World, those who got there at 9 are now heading over to the World Showcase. You'll have diminished lines for the afternoon.

Shh! Don't let everyone know.

Rock-A-Hula Luau

Expedia and the Travel Channel send Sam to Hawaii, specifically the Big Island (also called Hawaii). I’ve been to Hawaii, but to Oahu and Maui.

Sam starts off her Hawaiian weekend with a helicopter tour of the island. See how blue that water is? You can go in and see straight down to the bottom. We mainland tourists were mesmerized. Sam flies by a beautiful waterfall which the pilot tells her is taller than the New York City skyline. Sam gets dropped off there so she can go on a hike in the Kahala Forest. They reboard the helicopter to see one of Hawaii’s volcanoes, most of which are underwater and continue to expand the islands—the only state that continues growing. Her guide tells Sam that this volcano is the home to Madame Pele, the Polynesian volcano goddess. She can also be seen in the Enchanted Tiki Room in Disney. Sam gets to see lava, which is beautiful…when viewed safely from my couch.

Sam goes to a lesson to learn about native music. Her teacher plays the conch or “poon” and teaches her to play it. This is all to prepare Sam to be part of that night’s luau. Sam holds a coconut while her instructor threatens to cut it with a huge knife. He doesn’t. At dinner time, Sam tries to blow the poon but the crowd doesn’t appreciate her efforts. Third time’s the charm and they applaud. Sam hits the buffet. She watches her instructor perform the fire dance.

We come back to Saturday morning and Sam joins Michelle in picking coffee beans. She introduces her father. They have three minutes to pick as many beans as possible—the one with most beans and heaviest bucket wins. Sam dives right into the competition. She leaves to meet her friend Daniel, who introduces her to a master canoe builder. Who she met already as a tattoo artist. Okay. Skeet, the canoe builder/tattoo artist, teaches Sam how to make the canoe. Sam goes to a canoe blessing that will allow them to take it out to sea as it is 100 years old. She goes paddling along.

We return, passing Hawaii’s observatories. Sam heads 1400 feet above sea level. Their guide tells them some side effects of altitude sickness—nausea, vomiting, etc. It makes Sam “cranky”—she hasn’t had her alcohol yet this episode. They finally make it to the top in time for the sunset. They don parkas to keep warm. That is a beautiful sunset. Also, the mountain is where Hawaiians believe to have come from.

Sam goes to get some drinks, particularly an herbal one that acts as a stress reliever. The server tells her how to drink it—clap once, chug and clap twice. She warns it can sedate you so to drink it in moderation. She ignores her own advice as she gets comfortable with her new drinking buddies. She joins him in feeding the eels. And there they are, complete with an eel fight over some meat.

Sam finishes the weekend with a trip to a hula class for children. Sam joins them, trying to get the hula down. She learns it’s a lot harder than it looks. She watches their flexibility and tries to do it herself. They have to help her up. And so endeth Sam Brown’s trip to Hawaii!

Aloha ‘Oe!

Quote of the Episode:
“The site for girls gone mild.”—Sam’s drinking buddy

The second half-hour is a repeat of Sam’s trip to Philly. Next week’s episode, Sam spends a weekend in the Windy City!

76 Days to Go: Other Transportation

In another post, I discussed the monorail, but there are other ways of getting around Walt Disney World.

You can bring your own car and drive it on property--each park has it's own parking lot with appropriate sections (ie Epcot has "Imagination," "Innovention; Magic Kingdom has a "Dopey" lot and a Minnie lot). Trams will pick you up and take you right to the gates when you arrive and back to your lot when you leave. My favorite tram experience had to be at the Magic Kingdom when the driver sang, "When you wish upon a star, now you're off to find your car..."

I mentioned the ferry in the monorail post. That ferry leaves from the Ticket and Transportation Center and goes straight to the Magic Kingdom. There is also a ferry between the Magic Kingdom, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground as well as the Wilderness Lodge. Another ferry runs from MGM to the Beach and Yacht Club as well as the Boardwalk Hotel. All offer refreshing trips and good views of the property.

The most common form of travel? The buses! Buses from from each hotel to each park, as well as Downtown Disney. If you take a bus, you will be brought directly into the Magic Kingdom, bypassing the Ticket and Transportation Center. Disney stopped this because they noticed the buses were filling up with guests who were not staying on property rather than resort guests. If you travel between hotels after the parks close, you will have to go to Downtown Disney and transfer to a bus heading to your hotel. A bit of a hassel, but it still gets you where you are going.

So, don't worry about bringing your car or renting one--Disney has you covered!

77 Days to Go: Animal Kingdom

We go to the baby of the Disney parks--Disney's Animal Kingdom.

This won't be long as while my family and I go to the Animal Kingdom, it does not rank high on our list of "to-do." In fact, it's rare we make a second trip back in a vacation. We do ride the the Dinosaur ride, even if it scares the bejeebus out of me. The day of our visit to the Animal Kingdom, we don bathing suits so we can ride the Kali River Rapids. Splash Mountain may get you wet, but the Kali River Rapids will get you soaked.

The newest ride at the Animal Kingdom, Expedition: Everest, is a thrilling roller coaster through Yeti country. There are dips and twists throughout the ride, but the true highlight comes when you begin to do the ride backwards! My mother wasn't too thrilled with it, though.

My parents also like to do "It's Tough to be a Bug" in the Tree of Life. However, I have such an intense fear of bugs that seeing animated ones in 3-D sends me into panic attacks. So, my sister and I often sit this one out. This time, we shall try some of the rides in Dinoland, USA, especially the Primevial Whirl.

As we don't spend as much time in Animal Kingdom, we've never had to eat there, so I can't comment on the food. I can comment on the walkways, which are extremely narrow. It forces nearly everyone to walk in a single file line and is laid out in such a convoluted way so that one can easily get lost.

But the most important aspect of the Animal Kingdom are the animals themselves! They are in habitats and easily seen from the walkways. There is also a safari, allowing you to view the animals from a very close position. When my friends I did the safari, we were stalled because a giraffe was standing in the path, just enjoying his breakfast. We were able to get some good shots of the giraffe and we learned its tongue was black!

So, if you have an animal lover, I suggest you definitely go to the Animal Kingdom.

78 Days to Go: A Moment of Silence

Today's post will be short and won't actually deal with my upcoming Walt Disney World trip.

The Walt Disney Co. has announced that Wayne Allwine, the voice of Mickey Mouse, passed away. Allwine began voicing the famous mouse in 1977 and continued being the voice of Mickey for the next 32 years. He has been heard in the many movies and TV shows featuring Mickey in the past 3 decades as well as the Disney parks. He was the third man to give life to Mickey, following Jimmy MacDonald and the original Mickey Mouse--Walt Disney, himself.

Allwine is survived by five children as well as his wife, Russi Taylor. Taylor is the voice of Minnie Mouse. He was only 62 years old. It is unknown at this time who will succeed him as the voice of Mickey Mouse.

Condolences to Russi Taylor and Allwine's children, as well as the Disney family.

79 Days to Go: Hollywood Studios

We next visit the park formerly known as Disney-MGM Studios. Now called Hollywood Studios, this park still celebrates the movies, television and Hollywood.

To quote a Disney castmate, "So, have you done all our big rides? All three of them?" Yes, Hollywood Studios is a bit lacking in the ride department. The three big rides are the Rock-n-Roller Coaster, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Star Tours. The Rock-n-Roller Coaster features the music of Aerosmith and creates a twisting, turning highway you must travel to get to the band's concert across town. The ride uses technology that allows the ride to start quickly, going from 0-60 in about 3 seconds. It also contains shoulder harnasses as the ride contains corkscrews and loops. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror puts you into an episode of the Twilight Zone, where you board an elevator in the haunted Hollywood Tower Hotel, where five people mysteriously disappeared. It is a simple freefall, but programmed so that there are 8 different ways you can fall.

A word--don't get off the ride and ask your party on the ground "Did you see me?" The answer is "NO." You go too high up and often have a giant sign in front of you.

Star Tours is a ride through the Star Tours universe, when your vehicle gets lost on the way to the moon of Endor. You get caught in a tractor beam and have to ride through the Death Star. It's been one of my favorite rides in Hollywood Studios and back in Disneyland, I made my parents ride it about 10 times. George Lucas and Disney is teaming up for a sequel, so keep your eyes peeled!

The other three major rides are The Great Movie Ride, MuppetVision 3-D and Sounds Dangerous. The Great MOvie Ride takes you right into some of the greatest movies of all time--from Singin' in the Rain, to the Underworld of the gangster movies to Indiana Jones to Oz itself, this ride celebrates the movies that have made up American pop culture. The ending film, featuring clips from famous movies and the stars that have dazzled us through the years, is a must-see. MuppetVision 3-D stars the Muppet gang as they demonstrate their 3-D capabilities. Bean Bunny just wants to help out but ends up creating bigger messes than ususal. The show is in 4-D and some Muppets are even out in the audience--like the always grumpy, always snarky Waldorf and Statler. Sounds Dangerous is a test show for an undercover show, where we follow a hapless officer (played by Drew Carey) as he tracks down a smuggler. Unfortunately, the camera cuts out and most of the show is spent in the dark with just sounds. It's amazing how the imagination can fill in the rest and is a better journey into your imagination than the ride in Epcot.

Hollywood Studios has its share of shows for you to see--like Indiana Jones' Stunt Spectacular. I haven't seen it since when I was four, they mentioned "guns" and I hightailed it out of the show, my parents rushing after me. I catch the Beauty and the Beast show and we often see "The Little Mermaid," which some have said is superior to the Broadway production. As I haven't seen the Broadway production, I will hold off comments. The tour of the Magic of Animation is interesting to take but was a lot better when they still animated movies at the studios.

I haven't seen the stunt show or American Idol. There is also the Toy Story Midway, which I will try in August.

Food wise, I would suggest the Prime Time Cafe. You step back into a 1950s TV show, where mom's cooking, your cousins are serving you and manners are observed. My family's favorite story is when we watched a young boy leave his vegetables and order dessert. The server came back out iwth the veggies in a bowl with whipped cream on top. The mother laughed so hard, she nearly fell over! Another good choice is the Brown Derby, though it is a bit pricey.

Hollywood Studios is not a park you can spend all day at, like the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. I suggest pairing it up with another park or consider chilling at the hotel room afterwards.

80 Days to Go: The Monorail

This countdown post will be a quick one, just to touch on one of the most famous modes of transportation in Walt Disney World--the monorail! I have already discussed the two parks it is connected to--the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Walt Disney loved trains and he saw the monorail as the transportation of the future. They are quick and add to the Disney experience. The monorails are centered around the Ticket and Transportation center, also the parking lot for the Magic Kingdom. You can also catch the ferry to the Magic Kingdom from this center.

The monorails are also connected to the Polynesian Resort, the Contemporary Resort, and the Grand Floridian. I would advise visiting these other resorts and eating at them as well (more on that later).

For a real thrill, ask a castmember if you can drive the monorail. They allow families to sit with the captain and help drive. All you have to do is ask!

Correction: Another One's Off the Market

I was skimming through some postings where people have linked to my recaps of "Any Dream Will Do" (thanks, guys!) when I notice one pointed out I mentioned that Lee and Denise married in France. the poster pointed out I needed an atlas (by the way, I'm a girl). I was wrong. I didn't have the article opened when writing since I wasn't linking to it and I just wrote off the top of my head. My memory was wrong. They were married in the Seychelles.

Taking a Leap of Faith!

Last week on “Any Dream Will Do”: Everyone was amazing, no lie. For their mission, the boys had to seduce Denise. In a moment that I’m sure Denise and Lee that find funny, he failed that mission. In the end, Webber chose to save Lewis over Daniel and I got mad. Who goes next? Find out on tonight’s (not-so) live show!

Graham suit watch: Blue and orange again. He’s repeating colors! What’s with Denise and John doing jazz hands? Anyway, the final five Josephs sing a mix of the “Prologue” and “A Pharaoh Story.” It’s an…interesting…combo. I think Lee is overpowering the other four a bit. Scratch that. Lee’s just overpowering the other four. The boys leave the stage as the cameraman focuses on the Chrises. Graham introduces the panel (Zoe Tyler, Bill Kenwright, Denise van Outen, and John Barrowman) as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber. Graham says the Josephs have to handle different perspectives.

Lee is up first, as a dreamer. Lee remarks that Webber has seen his intense side. You think? So he says he has to find his “dreamity”—actual quote—and thinks of his Nana, who took him to shows. He performs the Monkees’ “Daydream Believer.” Webber says he needs to switch up from last week’s dark song. To help him get “dreamer,” wardrobe put him in pajamas! Hmm, for some reason, I remembered my view and thinking Lee fell short of the “dreamer” part. But re-watching it, I think he got it. Either way, this song’s already on my iPod. Hey, is he singing to his girlfriend? The one the camera just got?

Lee says he was surprised to see Daniel go and that its proved that anyone could go. Zoe thinks that Lee has learned to relax and she’s happy with his vocal. John compares Lee to a glass of lemonade on a summer day. Webber loved Lee.  I won’t repeat his “mojo” joke.

Coming Up: Ben blows a note or two.

Graham says that Ben has arrogance sorted but Ben needs to show his vulnerable side. Ben says that he doesn’t want his vulnerability to come out on the outside. But Webber wants to see it. Ben says he’s biggest fear is being in the middle of an ocean. So he goes to an aquarium and faces his fear, complete with a shark. He crawls out. Webber feels the song Ben has tells a journey and is about vulnerability. Ben sings “Crying.” The vocal starts off well. And I think vulnerability is getting through. Oh, here are the flat parts. Ouch. I don’t think Ben’s voice was ready for this song just yet. Oh Ben…I think Webber and I are making the same face. But he’s nailing vulnerability if not the notes. Please…please, end the song. Please, I can’t take anymore.

Oh thank God. Graham notes that “Crying” could be the Josephs theme song because of all the tears. See: Barton, Chris. And he says he felt more vulnerable in the fish tank. Bill starts. He apologizes for the song choice and notes the bad notes. But he liked how Ben kept the song simple and that he kept the story. He thought Ben gave a great vulnerable performance. He lets Zoe talk about the notes. She says he did improve and he did work on the song. She wants to work on his vibrato but that Ben did well enough with such a hard song. John reminds people that Joseph will never have to sing so high and that Ben did well enough with his song choice. He feels Ben could go the whole way. Webber thinks that Ben did have a hard song and Bill’s impressed with Ben’s last note. He tells him to stick through the competition.

Coming Up: Craig’s smile.

Graham says that next is betrayal. Craig has that one! He says he loves being with the boys and living in the Joseph house. He said he doesn’t like to betray his friends and starts trash talking the others. We get a shot of Lewis crying and Keith flipping over a banister. Webber wants him to tell the story and doesn’t want him to smile through the entire act. Craig sings “Suspicious Minds.” It looks like Craig struggles not to smile while he sings. However, I do believe there are times where he smiles with his eyes, Tyra’s favorite talent. He has a good vocal. Oh, there’s a smile. I think he just slipped into Cabaret mode to me. And another smile. At least his parents left the creepy Craig masks home this time.

Craig says he had doubts in the beginning but now believes he can be on the West End. Craig’s Number 1 Fan Bill goes first and, surprise surprise, praises Craig. He thinks Craig had a twinkle—you know, smiling with your eyes. Bill wants Craig in the semi-final. Denise finally gets a critique. She’s impressed and felt he acted it all the way through. Webber spotted the smile and decides to forgive him for it.

Coming Up: John v. the Audience

Lewis is up to show courage. Lewis talks about being in the bottom two…again. He cries. And cries. Webber says he needs to prove he deserves to be there. Lewis says letters from fans give him courage. Lewis sings “Hero” and Webber defers any comments till after the performance (only saying that this was the theme song for the FDNY after 9/11 and calls them heroes). Unlike the other three before him, he gets a Josephine. It’s a lovely song, Lewis gives a lovely vocal performance, but how does this show courage? I would think Mariah Carey’s “Hero” would be a better choice. This is more of a confidence/romantic side song. Courage =/= confidence.

Lewis jokes about his tears. Graham reminds us that Lewis is one of the youngest Josephs there. He says he has to move on while Graham says “No business like Jo business.” He cringes at the pun. Zoe comments first. She feels that Lewis should be a pop star but wants him to remain in the competition. John agreed with me—Lewis should’ve gone home over Daniel. But he felt that Lewis sang the song better. John thinks that Lewis would be a better pop star than West End actor. Denise reminds him what they are looking for, but John thinks he doesn’t have the star quality like Justin Timberlake. The audience boos as Bill tells Lewis to go for his dreams. Webber is just as confusing. He says Lewis has charm but not strength. Just angst. But he does have charm. Lewis says he could go all the way.

Coming Up: More Keith comparisons to famous people!

Graham says that the boys were able to sing with Josh Groban, but only one could sing with him. Webber puts Groban in a secret room to spy on the Josephs as they think they are recorded some tracks. Webber surprises the boys with Josh Groban and Keith declares his love for the singer. Groban announces the winner is…

FAKE OUT! Graham introduces Keith, who has to be arrogant tonight. The other boys say that Keith has a bit of a strut and can nail arrogance. He doesn’t think he’s cocky. Webber wants Keith to entertain us. So, he sings “Let Me Entertain You.” SING OUT LOUISE! Oh, wait, it’s not that one? Oops…Keith has Josephines as well. I can understand Keith this week, always a plus as we know his diction problems. He also has grabbed that stage and is not letting go. Wonderful vocals and I think he has found his cocky side.

Graham says that it’ll be a fun night in the Joseph house after that package. Graham mentions the Liza Minnelli comparison. But a fan thought Keith looked more like Tommy Steele…it is uncanny. Poor Keith. John thinks that Keith is one of the strongest competitors but told Keith to watch out when he does dance moves—he loses focus. Zoe loves Keith’s vocal. Bill thinks that Keith is still on a journey to West End star but he’s on his way. Keith promises to show it to him. Graham turns to Webber. He thinks that Keith could handle the last ten minutes of the show well and that Keith is a great Joseph.

Coming Up: Hope no one is afraid of heights!

The Josephs tells us about their weekly schedules. Rehearsals on Sundays, Mondays off, Tuesday has more rehearsals, acting class, choreography, fitting fun into the schedule, food fights, Wednesday features shirtless soccer—sorry, football—while Thursday has costume fitting, Saturday is the live shows.

JOSEPH MISSION! Webber admits to being scared of heights, like me. But he tells the boys that they stick Joseph in a cherry picker at one point, so he sends them to test their dealing with fun. Lewis jumps while screaming “Nana!” After doing a regular jump, they send the boys up a 50 foot pole to sing “Any Dream Will Do.” When the finish, they must then jump to a pole a few feet ahead of them. Ben, Craig and Lee make it while Keith just misses. Lewis goes next and makes it.

The Final Five sing “Born to be Wild.” I think these guys need to work on harmonies a bit. Craig’s voice is perfect for this song! So is Ben’s! If I weren’t watching the second showing at midnight, I’d have cranked that up. You need to when this song comes on—it’s law, like “Wild Thing.”

Coming Up: Who gets to duet with Josh Groban?

Josh chooses Lee to sing with. He says he was surprised and happy to get chosen. Keith is devastated because he is a big fan. And the other four have been relegated to back up singers. Josh and Lee sing “You Raise Me Up.” I love Groban’s voice, especially “Believe” from the movie “The Polar Express.” He should NOT have had to duet that with Beyonce at the Oscars. Good job being back up, boys! I think I can see why Josh chose Lee as the winner—besides having a great voice, they are both in the same range and mesh well.

Coming Up: Elimination!

ELIMINATION! Graham reads off the results. Lewis is safe. Lee is also safe. Ben is in the sing off. That leaves Craig and Keith. Keith is safe so Craig joins Ben in the sing-off. They must sing “I Made it Through the Rain.” Sorry, Craig (and my sister), I think Ben is the better bet to keep. While Craig might be the stronger vocal, Ben is the better actor. The boys finish and go before Webber. Who does he save? The audience votes for Ben. Webber agrees. Sorry, Craig. Ben hugs his fellow Joseph before leaving the stage. Webber also didn’t see acting. Craig’s family cries. He says he has grown, thanks Bill, and thanks the public.

Craig sings his good-bye as Bill cries. Craig gives a lovely rendition of “Close Every Door” as Lewis and Ben take his coat.

Could Still be Joseph: 

Rob

Lee

Chris B

Daniel

Craig

Keith

Seamus

Antony

Lewis

Johndeep

Ben

Chris C

Next…Wait, it’s not next week? TWO WEEKS? Anyway, the final four compete in the (not-so) live semifinal. TWO WEEKS?

Quote of the Episode:

“Joseph was handsome and clever, a bit like John. The problem was that he knew and his arrogance sickened his brothers, who ended up betraying him—a bit like John. Sold to slavery,  Joseph dreamed like becoming extremely rich and powerful, a bit like Andrew. But he courageously fought back and become one of the most powerful men in Egypt, a bit like Bill.” –Graham.

Agreed that Ben should’ve stayed over Craig? Well, don’t worry about Craig, you’ll learn that Number One Fan Bill helped him out. Anyway, see you guys in two weeks due to Memorial Day weekend (you really don’t show ANY new episodes over this American holiday. We’re too busy barbecuing, hitting the beaches and just welcoming spring. Oh, and remembering those who died in battles. That too). But once again, TWO WEEKS.

Damn you, BBC-America. 

81 Days to Go: World Showcase

It's time to go around the world in 80 minutes!

The World Showcase in Epcot was created to promote cultural understanding...and tourism. Eleven countries make up the showcase, with America at its center. The other ten countries are Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom and Canada. Germany, Italy, Japan, Morocco and the United Kingdom don't have attractions but do contain examples of the country's architecture, goods and food.

I have never seen "Reflections of China" and "O Canada!" because they are 360s. My mother gets motion sickness and now I fear I will get it too. The last time I saw "Impressions de France," comprised of various scenes of France set to famous French compositions, I was dizzy even though it's a 180! If these viewing styles do not bother you, I suggest you see all three films.

The Mexican Pavilion is designed to resemble a Mayan temple on the outside, but a plaza on the inside. Souvenirs are sold like in a market place while the San Angel Inn allows diners to always have an open-air, evening dining experience. My father and sister will be dining there this time while my mother and I are dining at the Rose and Crown over in the United Kingdom. The attraction was recently updated from the old "River of Time" to "Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros." Panchito and Jose take you on a search throughout Mexico to find the wayward Donald, the third Caballero. The ride ends in Mexico City, perhaps during a Cinco de Mayo celebration, and a concert by the Three Caballeros.

The Norway Pavilion evokes a Norwegian village, complete with the replica of a stave church. The main attraction here is Maelstrom, a boat ride through Norway's history and mythology. It does have some high speeds and a drop, but it is a fun ride. At the end of the ride, there is a short video about Norway. And trust me, this is the reason why my family wants to go to Norway. We watch it at least once a trip. The exit is through a series of souvenir shops filled with Norwegian goods. I have to hurry through this as there is one section dedicated to perfumes, which I am allergic to. My mother, though, often stopped to sample some of the perfumes. She liked one in particularly and finally treated herself to a bottle the last time we were there. She was using it sparingly, so when a family friend asked if we wanted any Christmas presents from Disney, my dad gave him money to buy another bottle for my mother. She was surprised and thrilled to open that present!

The American Adventure plays at the American Pavilion, a thirty-minute show zipping through American history. While it jumps over things and tends to gloss over, it does show slavery and our harsh treatment of the Indians. Hosted by audio-animatronic figures of Ben Franklin and Mark Twain, paintings, songs and other audio-animatronics tell America's story from the arrival of the Pilgrims to World War II. After that scene, a final musical montage takes over, entitled "Golden Dream." It covers the last half century of American history, important events and people. It was recently updated in 2007 to address recent events, such as 9/11 (portrayed using the shot of the firefighters raising the American flag over the rubble that once was the World Trade Center and a shot of Peter Jennings reporting that day). They also added important Americans such as Rosa Parks, Sandra Day O'Connor, Tiger Woods, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Lance Armstrong, Yo-Yo Ma, Oprah Winfrey and others. If you go see the American Adventure, try to get there early enough to hear the Voices of Liberty, Disney's a cappella group. They perform songs from America's musical history and explain certain events. I love listening ot them.

The American Adventure is where we also eat in the World Showcase, featuring good old American food. I have also eaten in the Chinese restaurant, but was sick so I can't give a good review.

The last thing you should do in Epcot is stay for Illuminations, a fireworks and lights display promoting global unity. It's a beautiful presentation and they light up the entire World Showcase. Good views can be scene from the United Kingdom as well as Future World.

82 Days to Go: Future World (Epcot)

Everybody has their favorite park. My dad loves the Magic Kingdom. I myself prefer Epcot Center. EPCOT--or Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Walt Disney imagined EPCOT as the ideal town, a future utopia. This original design can be seen on the WED-way over in Tomorrowland, housed inside the Carousel of Progress. Overtime, EPCOT became Epcot, a place where the world of today met the world of tomorrow.

The world of tomorrow is represented in Future World. The center piece of this world and the symbol of Epcot is Spaceship Earth--AKA the Giant Golf Ball. It houses its namesake ride, a journey through the history of communication. This is one of my favorite rides...and yes, I was a communications major. Though only a few years ago did I realize that in the Ancient Greece scene, the play being performed is the tragedy Oedipus Rex--particularly the scene where Oedipus learns he killed his father and married his mother! Spaceship Earth has gotten an update, replacing the narration by Jeremy Irons with Dame Judi Dench (I love Irons' voice and am going to miss it) and putting an interactive ending. For us who remember Horizons, it will be a trip down memory lane.

The Land promotes going green and has done so long before it was cool. In Livin' with the Land, we follow the history of man's relationship with the land as well as the different ecosystems found on the earth. The ride ends with a tour of Disney's farming labs, where they are working on different ways to improve farming so as not to disturb the ecosystems. They also have sustainable fish farms, which helped me pass my Environmental Studies final. In fact, this entire ride helped me pass. Everything grown in this farm is eaten in Disney restaurants. Also in the Land is "The Circle of Life," billed as an "environmental fable." Simba (Matthew Broderick reprising his role) tells Timon and Pumbaa (Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella) a story about how human progress destroyed the environment in order to explain how important the circle of life is. It ends with humans realizing we were wrong and trying to right it. All footage is from 1994, so the latest green fad is not included.

Also housed in The Land is one of Epcot's three big rides--Soarin'. Imported from California, Soarin' puts guests on gliding seats that take off over a giant screen. You are then "flown" over California, flying over Death Valley, Monterey Bay, and others. The ride ends, naturally, in Disneyland just as the nightly fireworks begin. It is a definite Fast Pass ride as this one can have a waiting time of 3 hours! The other two big rides are Test Track and Mission: Space. Test Track, once sponsored by GM (which they recently pulled for obvious reasons), allows guests to experience the tests their cars are put through before they get out on the road. The highlight of this ride is the 60 mph hairpin turns. Test Track does have a history of breaking down, so be careful. If you can't Fast Pass this lane and your group is full of older guests who wouldn't mind being broken up, go on the single rider lane. It's faster than stand-by. Mission: Space takes you on a journey to Mars, guided by Gary Sinise. There are two versions of the ride. In the Orange version, you will experience all the feelings astronauts feel in outer space thanks to g-forces created by spinning. The green ride is the same with just simulations and no spinning. You will want to Fast Pass the orange ride, but the green ride generally has a five minute wait period.

Epcot also hosts The Living Seas with Nemo and Friends, Journey into Your Imaginations, the Universe of Energy, Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, and Innovations. In the Living Seas, you board a clam mobile to try and find Nemo. In the end, images of the characters appear to be swimming with the actual fish living in The Living Seas. I love just watching these fish swim about. There is also Turtle Talk with Crush, like the Monsters Inc Comedy Floor. It allows the audience to interact with the sea turtle of the movie. Innovations holds different inventions and interactive activities for children to do.

Journey into Your Imagination takes guests on a tour of Imagination Labs, dedicated to the study of the imagination. However, the planned tour is hijacked by Figment, the purple dinosaur, and he reminds us what using your imagination is all about--thinking up new things and looking at the world in a different way. This replaced Journey into the Imagination, which was quickly shut down as guests complained how bad the ride was crafted--an expample of Disney screwing a ride. The original Journey into the Imagination featured Figment with the Dreamfinder, a man who traveled the universe to find things that could spark a person's imagination. It's song "One Little Spark" remains one of my favorites to this day. Next to this is Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. It replaced Magic Journeys and Captain Eo (starring one Michael Jackson in his "Thriller" days). Wayne is receiving an award but due to some mishaps, shrinks the audience. It is 4-Day, so you do feel some of the effects. My family hasn't done this in a while as it is an old attraction and you can only see it so many times.

The Universe of Energy plays "Ellen's Energy Adventure," starring Ellen Degeneres. She dreams she ends up on Jeopardy! (On the real set, circa the mid-90s, hosted by Alex Trebek still sporting his mustache) competing against Albert Einstein and her old college roommate (Jamie Lee Curtis), an expert on energy. All the categories are about energy and Ellen is losing by the time Double Jeopardy comes around. She freezes her dream and neighbor Bill Nye the Science Guy pops by to see Einstein. He offers to help Ellen, bringing her back to the start of time to see where energy comes from. He tells her about the different energy options humans have, from coal to water to wind to solar to nuclear. This ride is informative without being preachy and the journey through the world of the dinosaurs is a thrilling experience.

Foodwise, you can eat in the cafeteria of the Land, with some healthy and delicious offerings. There is also the Garden Grill, which rotates and allows views of Living with the Land. Because it rotates, we've never eaten there. The Living Seas has a seafood restaurant I heard is great (I don't eat seafood). My family, though, usually ends up at the Electric Umbrella. It once served pizza, but now is hamburgers and chicken. Or it was the last time we went--menus at Disney change constantly.

Tomorrow: We cross the bridge into the World Showcase. Bring your passports!

Hauntings and Dancing Down South

We’re getting some ghosts as Sam visits Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC.

Sam starts off in Charleston. She goes on a ghost tour to the old city jail, built in 1801. He shows them a torture device, which Sam calls the first pilates machine. He next brings the group in a prison cell, still period. He tells them of Lavinia Fisher, who was convicted of murdering people in her husband’s inn. She asked to be hanged in her wedding dress and took requests for messages to the devil. Sam notes there are hand marks on the walls, surprising even her guide. Sam’s cameraman dares her to go inside and then pranks her. She tries to attack him.

Sam wakes up at an ungodly hour to go work out with the US Army. Why? She goes for a jog. She then joins the cadets for stretches. Sam does manage to hold her own against the military. They even start the singing. You can tell this is the South and the Army, the cadet keeps calling her “ma’am.” As the sound editors cue up “As the Caissons Go Rollin’ Along” as Sam continues the workout from hell. They reward her with breakfast.

She goes from running to riding, joining a hunt. But there will be no real fox chased during this hunt—they will just place something with a fox’s scent down for the dogs to chase. She follows the jumpers in the hilltop group. That is one tiny horn. We see dogs run, horses chase and that small horn again. They hold a cocktail party and give Sam her favorite thing—alcohol.

Sam goes to dance lessons to learn how to do the Charleston. I learned how to do the Charleston in elementary school. We did a show—music in the last 150 years (1848-1998) to commemorate our church’s anniversary. Some girls got their dance teacher to teach them how to the Charleston and then they taught it to the rest of us, even us who weren’t in the number! (Like me, I was in the Twist number). After mastering the Charleston, Samantha heads south to Savannah. She goes to a local music venue, Jinx. And don’t let the tattoos fool you—they are Bingo freaks. Except with a bit of twist. The emcee keeps drinking while Sam makes friends with Chris, a tattoo artist. He thinks Sam should get a globe on her ankle. Sam gets Bingo. Her prize—whiskey and emcee duties. She goes to meet the emcee. She gets into some banter with the emcee, calling themselves the “sick version of Regis and Kelly.” She holds her own.

Sam goes to face her greatest fear: bees. Two hundred forty thousand to be exact. The beekeeper explains that yellow jackets sting, not really honey bees. They use smoke to relax the bees and prevent them for sounding the alarm. A bee gets into Sam’s net, scaring her. She gets a reward for being brave by tasting pure, fresh honey straight from the hive. He gives her some bees to hold. I wouldn’t do that. She holds them for half a minute, calls them adorable and shakes them off.

Cemetery! My sister is skived out already. Sam goes to visit Bonaventure Cemetery. Her host brings her to Gracie Watson’s grave, a little girl. She is buried alone and Sam gives her some candy. Sam asks her about paranormal activity. Her host tells Sam that there are reports of French ghosts, but other stories are cut short by storm winds. Sam leaves the cemetery and goes to do a murder mystery theatre. I did one of those at school. It was fun even if I wasn’t right. The actors also double as servers. So whodunit? Sam Brown did! The sleuth calls her a “talk show host.” She corrects him, saying, “Travel show host!” Good job, Sam!

Now, Sam goes VIP in Atlanta, GA.

Sam meets up with a fashion show host to go visit Atlanta’s oldest jewelry store. Sam apologizes to husbands for any ideas their wives get after the scene. Sam picks some pieces out to try on. Sam admires her diamonds. She is worth $300, 000 with the jewels on. They allow Sam to borrow some pieces and even give her security. She has her own little secret service! They drop Sam off at…

Atlanta’s fashion show Hotlanta! Anyone can go to Hotlanta because it is a benefit. She meets a designer who is putting her on the red carpet. She wears a beautiful black dress with the jewelry. And her body guard is behind her. She meets another designer who will put her on the catwalk. She learns how to walk—call Ms. J! Sam hits hair and make up, sadly not done by Sutan or Christian. Sam learns she is opening the show and is needed in five minutes. So they speed her through. And she hits the catwalk to applause.

Sam goes to the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium on the planet. She goes on a backstage tour. She sees the exhibits. Her guide talks her into going into the water and swimming with the whale sharks, which can only swallow something the size of a quarter. Sam gets her gear and dives in. She worries still about becoming scum as one swims by. She screams so loud, the sound guy can pick it up on land. But she is glad to have done it.

So, from the aquarium she goes to an underground mall. She goes for some dance lessons with Swagger. She impresses them with the Roger Rabbit. But they teach her some of their hip hop moves. She even gets an audience but asks Swagger to dance. She passes their test.

ATLANTA! Sam goes to eat at Rathbun’s to meet one of the best cooks in the city. Sam gives him a challenge to make a dish with a pumpkin. He asks Sam to help him and give him a mud bath as a prize. He creates a few dishes with the pumpkin and they name them. When some guys tells her he is on his third martini, she gives him one of the dishes. She finds other guinea pigs who like their dishes. Sam goes to meet up the fashion host and her friend to go to a nightclub in an opera house. She gets appetizers in a private room. They bring a giant cup, fill it with ice and give them a lot of champagne. So, appropriately buzzed, she goes to try out her dance moves.

Sam finishes her time in Atlanta by first eating at Varsity, a drive-in burger joint. Her serve sings the menu and orders, like they used to do. She gets her order and then goes to visit the Atlanta Braves. She calls this a present to the men who had to suffer through her Breakfast at Tiffany’s moment. The Braves give her her own jersey. She gets pitching lessons but needs catching lessons. Sam uses some of her dancing lessons to help get the footing right. Some fans cheer for her. Sam goes to apologize to her cameraman after nearly clocking him with a ball. She goes to meet some of the wives of the players, who dish about their husbands. She then goes to a pep rally before the game. They give her a drum and she performs. That’s some pre-show. They then give her a t-shirt gun to fire into the crowds. I loved that when I went to Shea Stadium.

And so ends Sam’s tour of the South. Next week: Hawaii.

Quote of the Episode(s):

“A drag hunt does not involve drag queens.”—Sam, getting ready for a hunt in Charleston

“You are a woman’s best friend.”
“Actually, I’m her husband’s best friend.” –Sam and the Jeweler in Atlanta

83 Days to Go: Tomorrowland

We're winding down our time at the Magic Kingdom by blasting off to Tomorrowland.

At the heart of Tomorrowland Plaza is the Tomorrowland Transit Authority, also known as the WED-way. It's a medium ride that takes you on a trip around Tomorrowland and through the rides in this land. For fun, listen as you approach the Carousel of Progress for a page for a "Mr. Tom Morrow." The Astro-Orbiters are also located next to the TTA hub, a ride I have yet to do. It's Tomorrowland's answer to Dumbo.

The Carousel of Progress first opened in the World's Fair back in the 1960s and was a big success. It now ushers in guests at Walt Disney World to take them on a trip of electricity and the American family. In scenes set in the 1900s, 1920s, 1940s and today, we see the progress inventions have made in improving the lives of the American family. From gas lamps to a voice-activated lamp, from a phonograph to virtual reality, the one thing that doesn't change is the family dynamic and the hope for an even better tomorrow--hence the ride's theme song, "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow."

"Monsters' Inc Laugh Factory" is the most recent addition to Tomorrowland. A door transports you to the world of monsters, who have learned that human laughter is a better power source than our screams. So Mike emcees a comedy show that the audience does actually interact with. Revel in watching fellow audience members getting funny sayings placed under them and hope for the chance you will be "That Guy." It's hysterical and different due to the interactions every time you go. Next door is Buzz Lightyear's Galatic Spin, in which you travel throughout the universe in pursuit of the evil emperor Zurg. There's always friendly competition on this ride to see who in the family gets the higher score. Just don't ride with my sister. She's a crazy driver.

"Stitches Great Escape" and "The Tomorrowland Raceway" are two other rides that I don't particularly ride. Stitch was originally the incredibly scary "Alien Encountered" watered down for family fun. I have no desire to go on it. I did the raceway once and didn't enjoy it, especially since I was constantly scolded by cast members for bumping the person in front of me despite the fact that he continually kept stopping short. Since then, I have had no desire to get back in the car. I'll take my chances on the Floridian highways.

The big attraction in Tomorrowland is Space Mountain. It's a roller coaster in the dark, sending you down twists and turns around the galaxy. It's a fun experience and not that scary a thrill ride, so new riders will have no problem riding it. My grandmother even rode it once.

Food wise, my family always makes a stop at Cosmic Ray's, a counter service place with chicken sandwiches along with the usual Disney fare. In the eating area, an alien named Ray entertains you as you eat in a Vegas-lounge singer style. He is even accompanied by invisible back up singers.

With that, we board the monorail and head to Epcot tomorrow, starting with Future World.

84 Days to Go: Toon Town

Let's face it: While Disney is on a whole a very family-friendly place, the Magic Kingdom is the most little child friendly. However, there are still parts that your toddler or Preschool Disney lover won't particularly care for--Haunted Mansion's a bit too scary, they are too small for the Mountain Ranges. There is one place in Disney for the under 48'' crowd--Toon Town.

Being that my sister and I are over 60'' tall, it has been a long time since we've been in this land. It is where the characters live and you can go visit the individual houses. Minnie's house is easily recognizable--it's the pink one, you can go to Mickey's house, Donald's boathouse and Goofy's unique dwelling place. You can even go help judge the Toon Town county fair! There are plenty of opportunities to snap pictures of your little princess or pirate with their favorite Disney character.

Also there for a little daredevil is a small roller coaster, a great introduction to the larger thrill rides they may one day favor. So, you can bring your little Disney-goer there with no worries!

85 Days to Go: Fantasyland

The most famous land in all of the Magic Kingdom has to be Fantasyland, the central point of the park. Cinderella's Castle is the entranceway to this park and leads you out into a land designed from an old fairy tale.

Fantasyland's center is Cinderella's Carousel, a testament to the ride the Disney girls were on while their father conceived his theme parks while sitting on a nearby bench. Dumbo is also at the center, where you can fly with the famous elephant. My family though swears that Disney pays people to stand on line as it always has a long wait. But worth it at least once.

Located on the border between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland are the teacups and Winnie the Pooh. The teacups are a fun ride, but I know my time with them is limited. I have motion sickness and it gets worse as I get older. So, I'm enjoying it while I can. Winnie the Pooh is a cute ride for the tots and/or Winnie the Pooh lovers. Most of us old timers at Disney have a love-hate relationship with it as it did replace the awesome, if underappreciated, ride known as Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. This often has a two hour wait, so using Fast Pass is advised. Another definite Fast Pass ride is Peter Pan's Flight, in which you ride in enchanted pirate ships over London and Neverland, following the story of Peter Pan.

Snow White's Scary Adventures allows you to follow Snow White's ride and glow in the dark if you are wearing white. Mickey's Philharmonic plays all day. Donald and Mickey's sorceror hat takes the duck on a trip through some of Disney's best music scenes, all in 3-D. Enjoy "Be Our Guest," or "Part of Your World" or be apart of "The Sorceror's Apprentice."

For the last ride, I apologize in advance for putting the song in your head. Go ride the happiest cruise to ever sail around the world. Audio-animatronic children dress in traditional clothes of each nation and remind us that "it's a small world." It's a great trip and the line moves quickly. Unfortunately, the song does tend to get stuck in your head.

Food wise, there is a counter service restaurant known as Geppetto's which serves the usual fare. But if you're lucky enough, you might get a seat by the windows, which allow you to look out at "it's a small world." So, when you ride it, wave to the people. They love it and it's Disney--everyone waves back! For sit down service, there is King Stephan's Banquet, which is a meal with the princesses. However, since it is so popular, the serving quality suffers. We barely had anything to eat at our character breakfast. For snacks, Mrs. Pott's cupboard has you covered with delicious ice cream.

Side note about Top Model: Thanks to the other person who agrees with me that Sutan should be America's Next Top Model!

Stomping to the Win

Last week on “America’s Next Top Model:” Paulina took the four remaining girls to a samba lesson and then made them samba. Celia won for faking the best. Tyra took the girls into the jungle for a bird photoshoot. She and Mr. Jay were nearly attacked by the world’s largest moth. In the end, Celia was sent home, leaving Aminat, Teyona and Allison to battle it out for the dubious honor of “America’s Next Top Model.” Who wins the kit-n-caboodle? Find out!

Wanna be on top?

SAO PAOLO! TYRA MAIL! “Be on point tomorrow or you can kiss this competition good-bye.” Aminat discovers scripts and the girls get excited for their Cover Girl commercial. Aminat says she’s nervous as she’s the underdog. She and Teyona practice, loudly,in the bathroom. Allison crawls under her covers and studies, looking lonely now that BFF Celia is gone.

The final three meet Mr. Jay. It’s the commercial/photoshoot standard! And the winner’s print ad will be in Wal-Mart. He introduces last cycle’s winner McKey, who mumbles about the lipstick they’ll be shilling. The girls hit hair and make-up. McKey talks more about the lipstick as Aminat is up first. She reminds us she has no room for mistakes. Mr. Jay tells her to be expressive. Mr. Jay and Elyssa watch her and give each other looks. I don’t think those were good looks. Aminat heads to her shoot with Jim de Yonker.

Allison is the second one up. She’s nervous because she bombed the last Cover Girl commercial. But to be fair…so did everyone else. She starts and forgets her lines. She just blanked in front of the camera. Mr. Jay calms her down and she gets through the commercial. Jim de Yonker loves Allison’s look.

Teyona is the last one. She trips over the script, unlike Allison who just blanked. Mr. Jay tries to slow her down and gets her to sing the song she made up to memorize the script. She forgets that too and has a near melt-down. Never mind, she has a meltdown as we head into commercials.

SAO PAOLO! Teyona cries as she knows it’s her nerves. She nails the shoot later and Mr. Jay sends her to Jim de Yonker for her photoshoot. He loved all the girls!

TYRA MAIL! Someone’s going home. Allison and Teyona, Allison and Teyona. Please, Tyra, I’m still not sure why Aminat is there! The girls are nervous. Teyona continues crying in confession while Allison hits the hay.

Morning comes to Sao Paolo and the girls report to panel. I love Allison’s outfit. Tyra informs them the final two will be walking in a Rosa Cha fashion show, with the creative director of said line as their guest judge. Holy crap, kill Ms. J’s tie! Teyona goes up first. At least they don’t show her crying, but they show her tripping over her lines. The judges note she was nervous and Tyra tells her how to cover it up. They love her picture. Allison follows Teyona and is much better than Teyona’s. The judges aren’t too thrilled with her pacing, but Paulina loves her voice. Tyra says that Allison is not just high fashion, but commercial. Aminat finishes this panel. Nigel golf claps and Tyra praises her commercial. But her film didn’t impress them. Tyra doesn’t think Aminat can harness her potential. Time for deliberation! Teyona and Allison, Teyona and Allison.

Time for SPEAK UP MCKEY! It’s her swan song. And she mumbles about living her dreams.

SAO PAOLO! The judges deliberate. Teyona: Love photoshoot, hate commercial. Paulina calls her one-dimensional. They talk about carrying oneself and proportions when it comes to Allison. Tyra thinks Aminat is still in her head. ELIMINATION! Allison is the first called and in the final two. Oh my god, for a girl I had to prep myself for every episode because I thought she’d go home, I’m so proud of her. Teyona and Aminat come forward. Aminat: “The Body,” but got stronger as the competition progressed. She had the strongest commercial. Teyona: “Edgy Beauty,” she had great pictures—she had three weeks of best picture (so did Allison, BTW). But the commercial was a disaster. And I called it! Final two: Allison and Teyona! Tyra tells Teyona that she worked hard and deserves to be there. Then she hugs Aminat and tells her to relax and be strong. Aminat says her good-byes.

She is grateful for her time on the show and promises to keep modeling. 

Still in the Running: 

Celia

Aminat

Tahlia

Kortnie

Isabella

Nijah

Allison

London

Sandra

Natalie

Fo

Jessica

Teyona

Teyona and Allison go to meet with Ann Shoket to take their possible front cover pictures for Seventeen Magazine. Allison says it feels insane she is in the top two. Teyona says it feels amazing. Ann calls the competition tight.

The Brazil Bus brings Allison and Teyona to meet Mr. Jay to prep for their runway. They go to a musical school/home of Brazil’s orchestra. They hit hair and makeup—look, there’s McKey. Hey, are they giving the girls the same girls they had to model a few photoshoots back? Teyona has purple while Allison has pink. She talks to McKey, saying she’s trying not to psyche herself out. Tyra comes to encourage Allison and Teyona. Tyra mentions the “Brazilian Stomp.” Teyona also preps herself.

Okay, I’m a little worried for Allison as the catwalk—not her strong suit.

SAO PAOLO! Say hi to Fernanda Motta, hot of Brazil’s Next Top Model and a guest judge. Allison is a little nervous because it’s swim suit. Teyona tries to remain calm. Look, an actual audience. The panel begins, with the Capoeira fighters following. Mr. Jay cues the music and McKey opens the show. Teyona flaunts her feathers. Maiera, winner of Brazil’s Next Top Model 2, is also in the show. Allison follows and the panel thinks she looks awesome. Her walk has improved! Time for the second go-around. They shove Teyona and Allison in an elevator with Anda. Teyona informs us they will be samba dancing down the aisle. Teyona goes down while Allison fakes it down the runway. Tyra thinks it was cute. What is Ms. J doing? Final trip time! They are covered in mud and Mr. Jay threatens to beat anyone who touches him. Teyon, Allison, give him a big hug when you are done! The models crawl down the runway and I don’t know what they are doing. Allison accurately calls it “performance art” while Teyona loses her weave. But she works it. The panel is impressed.

Tyra calls the girls “amazing.” She sends them to get clean and some more hair. And she says she’ll see them to crown America’s Next Top Model.

FINAL PANEL! They are still in their bikinis. Prizes: A contract with Elite Modeling, six page spread and cover of Seventeen Magazine, and a $100,000 contract with Cover Girl. Tyra starts with the fashion show and with Allison. They were surprised that Allison did so well as they thought the same I did. Teyona is next. They think she has a good walk but needs to work on her movements. Photoshoots! They start with week 2, self-lighting. Paulina thinks Allison’s was stronger. She is praised for knowing the lighting and her look. But Tyra likes Teyona’s pose. They go to the color shot—oh, Teyona was yellow not purple. Most of the panel prefers Teyona’s photo over Allison. In the Ciara shot, the girls get praised. They follow that with Carmen Miranda photoshoot. Tyra loves Teyona’s take on Carmen Miranda. Paulina calls Allison a “50’s pin up.” They finish with the bird photoshoot. Tyra loved shooting Allison. They think Teyona was good but it could’ve had more.

Ann Shoket was right, this is close. Someone call for a pizza, the panel’s going to need some time.

Top Models in Action! Cycle 10’s Fatima is up next. She has been on covers and done numerous photo shoots. Yay, Fatima.

We get back to panel. They were really surprised by Allison. Tyra loved Allison playing along with Ms. J, while Teyona gave Tyra chills during the mud-wrestling thing. Ms. J thinks Teyona wants it more but that Allison will go further. Paulina thinks that Allison has come the furthest. Paulina isn’t sure about Teyona’s personality but Nigel thinks she deserves to be there. She has been consistent.

It’s Judgment Day. Tyra calls them strong but that someone had a little something more. America’s Next Top Model Cycle 12 winner is Teyona! Allison gives her a hug. Tyra follows. She says Teyona worked hard and the judges took notice. She then goes to comfort Allison. Tyra says that Allison had a transformation and is no longer the weird girl. Allison says she wanted it and is disappointed but is proud she made it this far. Ms. J sends Teyona to do a photoshoot with Tyra and Nigel. Mr. Jay gives her a hug. Tyra blathers on about how she discovered Teyona.

America’s Next Top Model: Teyona!

Anyone surprised by the final two? The eventual winner? I must admit, though I was a huge fan of Allison, I’m not upset that Teyona won. We’ll see Allison again. I know it.

So, that was Cycle 12! See you all again for Cycle 13 coming this September. And keep an eye on my blog for other recaps and reviews!