Only For Now

Come September, another Tony-award winning musical will face the final curtain.

Playbill announced today that "Avenue Q," the irreverent look at life in an outerborough often called "the adult Sesame Street," will close Sept. 13th.

"Avenue Q" follows the adventures of new graduate Princeton, optimistic and buying his first apartment. He winds up on Avenue Q, where he meets a wide range of characters, including a closeted gay Republican, his suspicious roommate/object of his desires, a potential love interest and Gary Coleman. The show follows Princeton has he struggles with love, money and the Bad Idea Bears and tries to find his purpose in life.

Some well known songs from the show include "If You Were Gay" and the ever popular "The Internet is for Porn."

"Avenue Q" currently plays at the Golden Theater.

42 Days to Go: Michael Jackson

It's a surprise--Michael Jackson died today. He played a part in Disney history.

Prior to "Honey, I Shrunk the Audience," another 3-D spectacular played at Epcot. It was called "Captain Eo" and starred Jackson as a bumbling space pilot sent on a diplomatic mission. It was corny but it had a great soundtrack. And some signature Jackson moves from the Thriller era.

Enjoy his performance, courtesy of YouTube.

Part I

Part II

43 Days to Go: Common Courtesy (Sidewalks)

So, you've spent a lot of money to go to Disney? Well, so did every other person in the park, so please remember that your manners are not also on vacation. Some common courtesies everyone should remember:

-Though for the most part Disney has wide sidewalks, that is not an open invitation for your party to take up the entire space. Please remember to keep to the right.

-Try to give a bit more berth to those with strollers. However, if you are one with a stroller, that doesn't mean you now have free range of the sidewalks.

-If you use an electronic scooter, please learn how to operate it--for your safety and the safety of others.

44 Days to Go: Top 5 List

Top 5 Attractions in Hollywood Studios

5. MuppetVision 3D

4. Great Movie Ride

3. Tower of Terror

2. Star Tours

1. Rock-n-Roller Coaster

Honorable Mention: None, really. It's too small a park.

BREASTS, SEX and DEATH!

Last season on “The Secret Life of the American Teenager”: Nice girl Amy discovered she was pregnant at the age of fifteen, fathered by the school manwhore Ricky. Meanwhile, she fell in love with good boy Ben, whose friends Henry and Alice had sex issues of their own. Good Christian girl Grace started the season dating Jack, dumped him when she caught him with bad girl school slut Adrian, dated Ricky and then somehow ended up back together with Jack and best friends with Adrian. Adrian and Ricky yo-yoed between each other, with a side dalliance of her step-brother. Grace’s brother tried to marry his sweetheart, sending Josie Bisset and John Schneider into panic mode. Amy’s parents split up and sister Ashley moved in with her dad. In the end, Amy gave birth to a baby boy named John and Mr. Molina is still the sanest character on this show despite being married to a pregnant nutcase.

Phew.

We start this second summer season with Amy trying to balance motherhood, student life and making herself dinner. Ashley comes over just to taunt her it seems before leaving. Molly Ringwald enters and Amy pretty much calls her mother fat. Turns out, Molly’s not fat—she’s preggers! (In real life too). Amy’s a bit upset because, well, the one person she should be able to lean on is now in the same boat as she. They argue before we segue into…

Amy’s Dad’s house, where Mimsy is staying over. They comment on how Molly is obviously pregnant and Mimsy tells him to warn Amy about how she’s dressing. She says she remembers conceiving Molly after the end of World War II, though we all know Molly isn’t THAT old. Mimsy excitedly leaves with the hot bus driver, after declaring she likes Amy’s Dad’s house better.

Next, Ben seems to be going on about breasts. Running theme, it seems. Apparently, the Sausage King found a new girl of his own. But Ben’s freaking out and Henry and Alice are not helping. Henry ribs his girlfriend who leaves as we learn that the Sausage King’s girl is…

JENNIFER COOLIDGE? Tom’s prostitute “friend” from last season? She tells Sausage King that she’s a court report and they’re just cute. Even if she’s a prostitute.

Meanwhile, Adrian’s mom and dad are getting closer, which leaves Ricky and Adrian without a place to have sex. They are trying to work it out when Adrian gets another call. It’s Grace, announcing she’s having sex with Jack and Adrian tries to talk her out of it.

When did Grace and Adrian switch personalities?

We come back to Ricky bringing Molly something other than soup. He quiets John so that Amy can berate her mom about the baby. When did this world go topsy-turvy? Ricky’s excited to hear about the baby, but Amy’s not. She actually has realistic concerns that Molly clearly can’t believe that her teenage daughter is smarter than she.

Meanwhile, Adrian goes to stop Grace’s planned night with Jack. Remember every conversation Grace and Adrian had last season? Flip it! You have that scene.

Meanwhile, Amy’s Dad and Ashley end up at the same restaurant as the Sausage King and Jennifer Coolidge. They talk and Ashley recognizes Jennifer for what she is—a prostitute. She even proves it when Ashley tells her the baby’s name is John and she mistakes it for…well, you know. Meanwhile, David (Molly’s boyfriend) walks in and Amy’s Dad spills the beans about the pregnancy. David is shocked to say the least and wonders if the baby is really Amy’s Dad. He replies, “Nope, I’ve been neutered.” And I do recall something to that affect being uttered by Molly last season. Mazel tov, David!

Ben stops by, which Ashley told us in the last scene he does whenever Ricky is there. Ben wonders if John will be moved into the nursery because he’s uncomfortable with Ricky in Amy’s room. Ben smells the steak and worries that Ricky is trying to worm his way into Molly’s heart. And then Amy catches him staring at her breasts, he comments that she’s showing too much than asks for sex. Ricky enters and excuses himself quickly. Amy reminds Ben she just had a baby and goes to thank Ricky for helping with John. He offers to stay but Ben replies he’ll be doing that. Amy calls time out on the alpha male fight. Ricky leaves and the baby cries.

David calls Molly, clearly schnockered. He asks if he can come over and then asks if she’s pregnant. Molly can hear the booze in his voice. Molly’s surprised when he replies that Amy’s Dad will give him a ride.

It seems John Schneider is going to a third world country on another physician’s jet plane. Tom thinks that’s unfair but then spills the beans about his sister’s plans with Jack. Josie doesn’t believe him and calls Grace. Apparently, she and John are fighting. She hangs up with her mother and there’s Jack, in naught but his boxers. He confirms that she wants to do this and we fade to black.

Ricky goes to visit Adrian, much to dad’s displeasure. She and Dad argue and Ricky leaves because he suddenly has no urge to have sex with Adrian. Ricky wonders why dad’s so concerned when he (Ricky) knows more about Adrian and claims to be a better father than he. He hypotheses that dad blew the proposal and that’s why he wasn’t allowed to be in Adrian’s mother. When did the teens get wiser than the adults on this program? Hello?

The Sausage King wakes his son up to tell him he’s in love. Will someone tell him what Jennifer Coolidge really does? Please? He warns Ben so that he won’t be surprised when he sees Jennifer at the breakfast table and then asks Ben for a condom. Ben has a whole drawer full. The King takes two.

Amy’s Dad and Ashley are surprised to find Molly asleep on his kitchen table. She sends Ashley to bed and then denies she’s pregnant. She makes sure that his vasectomy worked. He says ten years should be proof enough. He then offers his bed so that she can get some rest and volunteers to go help Amy with the baby. He congratulates his soon-to-be ex, who is still reeling from shcok.

Jack is getting dressed and asks if Grace is okay. She’s a bit…surprised. So’s he…turns out she’s the aggressor. They both liked sex. Wait, did Jack go all the way with Adrian…I thought they only had oral…I’m confused. Anyway, Jack makes sure that Grace is fine emotionally. Aww, he’s so sweet for a sixteen years-old. He even proposes—when they turn 18, of course. None of this Ben and Amy not-marriage. Jack comes down to discover a distraught Josie Bisset. OH GOD THEY KILLED JOHN SCHNEIDER! Dear John, Stop taking roles where you die! Love, Me and my sister.

We come back to a happy John, a clean kitchen, a tire Amy’s Dad and an impressed Amy. Dad implores his daughter to be nice to her mother now that she’s pregnant, reminding her of what’s been thrown in our face all episode: the roles are now reversed. I think now that John Schneider was killed off, Amy’s Dad is now one of my favorite characters—along with Mr. Molina. Anyway, Amy’s Dad says that there is bad news. She goes straight to Ashley, but is comforted. We cut to Ricky knocking on Adrian’s door. He asks if she’s seen the news and she replies she hasn’t. He tells her there was a plane crash and she worries immediately about her mother. Once assured mom’s fine, she jumps to terrorist attack. Once assured the nation’s fine, he tells her that it was a private jet. She puts two and two together as we go straight to the Sausage Royal Castle. Ben thinks dad struck out with Jennifer Coolidge, but the King tells his Prince there’s bad news. He immediately asks about Amy and John and is soothed to know it isn’t them.

We finish with Tom trying to comfort his distraught mother, saying he’ll be the man of the family and take care of Josie. She wonders who will take care of Grace, who is crying uncontrollably on her bed. My sister thought that’s when Adrian comes in, I had money on Jack but instead it’s…the credits.

Coming Up This Season: Amy and Ben have difficulties, Molly adjusts to being pregnant, Grace and Jack have problems.

So, what’s up with this season? Isn’t it like we stepped into the Twilight Zone, particularly with Adrian and Grace? And why kill of John Schneider? It’s a bit dramatic, isn’t it? Have sex and your dad perishes in a plane crash! And why can’t I stop the niggling feeling that Schneider really isn’t dead?

45 Days to Go: Disney Tip (#4)

Time for another tip...

If you're staying for an extended time, don't worry about packing clothes for every day. Every Disney hotel comes with its own laundry room, usually located by the pool. So, you and the family can go for a dip and leave with clean clothes.

46 Days to Go: Trip Update

So, I've been writing non-stop about Disney, but not so much my preparations for the trip.

Right now, I've been dumping my wallet of change (and trust me, I tend to accumulate it) and storing it in my old piggy bank. A few days before we go to Disney, I'll bag it and take it down to Commerce to exchange it for bills. I don't know how much I've accumulated so far or how much more I'll accumulate before Aug. 1, but I hope it's enough for a good sized portion of spending money.

Maybe I should go cushion fishing for some more.

47 Days to Go: Top 5 List!

And now we have another Top 5 list...

Top 5 Attractions at Epcot!

5. Maelstrom

4. Test Track

3. American Adventure

2. Mission Space

1. Soarin'

Honorable Mention: Universe of Energy

Green is as Green Does

Samantha returns to Hawaii. That was fast. This time though she’s on Maui and going green! In honor of that, this entry will go green...fonted.

Sam joins a bus tour along a very beautiful and winding path. They stop to see “rainbow” trees. It looks like someone painted the trees. Sam and her busmates play “Guess Your Carbon Footprint.” One has a large footprint but feels the bus lessens it a bit. Sam’s going green! They arrive at one very beautiful view before finishing with a stop by the ocean. It’s a scene out of nature film. Sam points out that her driver left the bus running with the air conditioner running. He says it was for their comfort. Makes sense. Sam admits she created the whole in the ozone layer as her busmates look like they want to be anywhere but on her bus. Sam is excited to be on the black sand beach and Sam apologizes to nature. She hits the surf before running out for fear of jellyfish.

She stops at an organic farm. They even grew their own coffee! Sam wonders why there’s a bike in the middle of store. Turns out, that’s what operates the blender. So, when Sam orders a smoothie, guess who puts the pedal to the metal? Sam Brown, that’s right. She enjoys the fruits of her labor and decides to make everyone smoothies! Sam turns in since she says tomorrow is a busy day.

Sam starts her day at my weekend/vacation bedtime—2 AM—to go see the sunrise. She has some fun with her director, who falls asleep on the way up. But they make it and the sunrise rises while some woman sings an ancient chant to welcome the sun. Sam grabs another bike to get back down the hall. She enjoys the scenery and her low carbon emissions.

Sam arrives at the bottom to hear about the Hawaiian Olympic games which celebrated the crops, not victories. They give Sam a spear. Oh boy. She watches father and son battle it out for which stick they shoot at. They grab arms and hop on one leg. Okay…You could’ve just flipped a coin. We learn Sam didn’t do jauvelin in high school as she misses her mark each time until her last one. Next, they call a ladder a sled and go down the hill on it. It looks painful. Sam wipes out and the company groans accordingly.

Sam goes to visit a farm and sinks as it is watery. She helps harvest the main ingredient of the dish Poi as fire ants attack. Sam celebrates that she’s a farmer with the Kashi representative/nutritionist. The real farmer is thinking, “Sweet, free labor!” Sam then learns how to make Poi. She skins it, boils it and mashes it. Then they add water and mix it.

Sunday dawns and Sam finds herself in the water. She goes snorkeling. I tried to go snorkeling on Maui but got too seasick. They threw me in the water with a raft just to get my stomach to calm down. It actually works. So, folks, if you get seasick, get yourself into the water. Sam drags along a water proof camera and gets shots of Hawaiian fish and reef.

Sam finishes off her weekend in Maui by making a PSA. It’s actually pretty funny and true to Sam—she tells a shower hog that they’ll miss happy hour. Hey, Sam actually didn’t consume any alcohol on this vacation. Wow. Sam boards a canoe and paddles off into the sunset. Actually, to the airport.

That finishes Sam’s trip to Maui. So, we say “aloha” to my favorite Hawaiian island and gear up for when Sam goes to Sundance next week.

Quote of the Episode:
“You try being nice to Mother Earth and sometimes she just kicks you in the butt.”—Sam, after her wipeout

48 Days to Go: There Is Life Outside Disney

No, really, there is. Not that my family's found it, but we know it exists. We've had to venture out into the great world known as Orlando, Fl, for a few things. Okay, mostly for Mass, but we usually end up eating lunch out on the outside as well. Don't be afraid to venture outside of Disney's boundaries for a meal or two, if you can. I wouldn't advise taking a car service because those fares make DISNEY look like a bargain. But there is a rental car service on property if you don't bring your own car. My family's eaten at the Olive Garden and Sizzler down there. And the Sizzler was a real treat because honestly, they don't exist up here in New York anymore. I remember when I graduated kindergarten, half my class ended up celebrating there. But I digress...

So, get out. You'll need the stretch.

And the change of food.

49 Days to Go: Birthdays in Disney

I'm sure by now you've seen the "What Will You Celebrate?" commercials and realized that "Time of Your Life" is almost as catchy as "it's a small world." But celebrating birthdays isn't something Disney just thought up--it's been going on for a long time now.

It's quite easy. Just find a cast member and tell them it's your birthday. They can provide you with a special pin that you wear and watch the special treatment pour in. And don't forget to enjoy a birthday cake at whichever restaurant you choose to eat at on your special night. Don't worry if it's the Liberty Tree Tavern. They've eliminated the characters as part of the dinner so you won't have Goofy ringing the bell till the cows come home.

So, happy birthday to you! And go ahead--splurge. Get that Disney item you really want.

50 Days to Go: Disney Memories (3)

This Disney memory is courtesy of my 2004 trip, which was my class' senior trip!

On our day in Hollywood Studios, we were given dinner and group seats to the show "Fantasmic!" The dinner was not the greatest, which made me wonder if Disney chefs cooked it at all or if they brought in outside food (because seriously, that food was bad). We were a bit too high for great views (or pictures) but the show was magical itself. As the April night wore on, we got chilly. Being seniors in high school, we hadn't developed the foresight to bring our jackets with us before leaving our rooms, so we were huddling together and shivering. The ever courteous Disney staff saw this and cast members handed out table clothes for us to use as blankets. And we watched Mickey save the day, wrapped together in table clothes and happy. Upon returning to the room(s), my friends and I decided to order pizza. A few of us went to pick it up (and I went to refill my cup) and ate it in our room while we planned our next day. The teacher came to pick up our room keys so we couldn't sneak out and wished us a "good night."

A few days later, we were thanked by the same teacher for never giving her a problem as some girls had been caught sneaking out. She knew we followed the rules and made our own after hours fun in the rooms (normally planning sessions that just evolved into gabfests). Those were some of the best nights ever.

51 Days to Go: Top 5 List

Because who doesn't love a top 5 list?

Top 5 Magic Kingdom Attractions:

5. Haunted Mansion

4. Splash Mountain

3. Pirates of the Caribbean

2. Thunder Mountain

1. Space Mountain

Honorable Mentions: Buzz Lightyear and Jungle Cruise

If you have an ideas you want to see as a top 5 list, let me know!

52 Days to Go: Winter Summerland

Fantasia Gardens isn't the only mini golf course in Disney. And this year, my family's giving "Winter Summerland" a go.

The theme for this course is that half is winter and the other half is summer. The legend is that Santa's elves built it, split into teams to design their preferred location--the North Pole or Florida (where they went on vacation. Because, honestly, where else would Santa take his elves?) Hopefully, I'll give a better view of this course once we've returned.

Winter Summerland is located near Blizzard Beach, appropriately.

53 Days to Go: Fantasia Gardens

My family absolutely loves to mini-golf. We do it every summer, no matter where we are. And Disney is no exception. The last time we were there, we went to Fantasia Gardens.

The course is located behind the Swan and Dolphin Hotels (not part of my Disney hotel series because they are not official Disney hotels), the course is themed from the movie "Fantasia," particularly the gardens course. Characters and the elements of the movie are incorporated to the holes, such as a dancing hippo or mushroom. The holes aren't so challenging, but there are a few--such as one toward the end where the ball will more likely end up in the water than the hole. The other half of the complex is an 18 hole course made to look like a real golf course. The par is 61, which ranked it one of the most challenging.

So, if you're in for a little old fashioned mini golf fun, head on over! It's a great time.

The Love Boat

Tonight, Sam goes on a cruise! Again! And it’s longer than a weekend!

The sun rises on Fort Lauderdale and Sam takes pictures of the Carnival Freedom. We meet Sam’s mom as they board the ship. That…is a nice ship. Mom loves the room and they enjoy the view. We meet Sam’s friend Liz and her husband. Hey, will we ever see Sam’s husband? Liz and Hubby start off the cruise with alcohol. I can tell why she and Sam are friends. Pete and K are playing on the deck, leaving Sam alone. She finds her mother and alcohol. The ship leaves the dock as they find Liz and Hubby. Her other friends are dancing. There are ships that sail out of Bayonne, NJ. I see them every so often sailing under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge while I ride the bus home from work.

Sam starts her next day with a work out before joining the girls for breakfast. Liz said her hubby was surprised to wake up to water. He and Pete are playing…Bingo. Seriously? But the men are having fun. Unfortunately, they don’t get Bingo.

Sam and her mother hit the Beauty Salon to get ready for Elegant Night, to meet the captain. That is a great view to see during beautification. Liz and Hubby get dance lessons, specifically to learn the Cha-Cha. Sam’s movement is limited to changing the settings on the massage chair.

The gang hits Elegant Night and starts with pictures. My family chronicles our life with our Disney picture, our friends do it with their cruise pictures. They finish and go to meet the officers. The captain looks confused at the gang. They get to dine with him. Sam warns him about K. She asks if she can guide the ship, thinking it is driven by a wheel. The captain gets a laugh. Sam and the gang dance with the officers after dinner as Liz and Hubby impress them with their Cha-Cha.

The next day, they go on a sky ride to view all of St. Thomas. Sam finds artists at work on the top, including one who lives on a sail boat in the harbor. Mom goes to hang out with the birds. They try more alcohol. K is able to go up and stir a ship. She and Pete have signed up to ride submersible scooters—scooting on the harbor’s floor. Those helmets are hysterical. Meanwhile, Sam tries to get Hubby to buy something for Liz, claiming it’s his tenth anniversary. Liz reminds Sam she was at their tenth anniversary party. Sam laughs. Pete and K hit the town to see some sites.

They all meet up on the ship for drinks.

At the marriage game, we realize Sam was really off about Liz and Hubby’s anniversary. They’ve been married for 14 years. Sam gets to help with the game as Liz and Hubby play. It also allows her to tease her friends. Each couple though gets champagne and a trophy.

They disembark in Antigua. Sam and Pete head for the center of the island. Sam gives Pete a little history on Antigua before they get their ATVs. After donning their helmets, they take off for a tour of the island. Liz, K and Hubby go to visit Antigua’s rain forests. They ride a zip line. Liz looses steam halfway through and has to pull herself along. Sam and Pete spot windmills. The two try to leave but Sam’s run out of juice. K, Liz and Hubby are surprised to come across a zip line 200 feet up and 325 feet down. Liz screams all the way down. K screams “I’m king of the world” on her ride down. They all meet up to go on a tour of the rum distillery. Hey, where’s Mom? They even get to try some aged rums. Pete chugs his.

Mom’s onboard, watching the sunrise.

The gang plays games where losers must go down the killer water slide. Seriously, it’s the type of slide I close my eyes to go up so my fear of heights doesn’t stop me to ride. After Ping-Pong, they hit mini-golf. My family and I love to mini golf. Hubby, Sam and K lose and must go down the slide. What a terrible price. (End sarcasm). Sam enjoys her plunge to the bottom. Sam then takes Mom out for afternoon tea. Mom is just glad to be out of snowy New Hampshire. Sam and Liz play “Where’s Waldo?” with their Elegant Night pictures. Mom though heads for the jewelry.

That night—more games! Though, this is casino night. They wager 50 bucks as a start. Sam wins big at the craps table. K follows suit at blackjack. She goes all in—including her jewelry. Meanwhile, the guys are at Roulette. Hubby’s pile is bigger than Pete’s. Sam shows off hers as Liz and Mom hit the slots. Liz wins. Sam and Pete finish up the night with a game of basketball. I could join in that game—I can’t get the ball in the hoop either! Sam gets on Pete’s shoulders in order to do so.

Their next stop is the British Virgin Islands. Sam, K and Mom go to the smallest island for a hike. They keep stopping so K could take pictures. They find the beach which is absolutely beautiful. Sam goes to find the baths. She wants some alone time. Mom reads on the beaches while K plays in the surf. Liz and Hubby go for some couple time on the beach on the main island. They go to meet and play with dolphins.

They pick up Pete for a mile walk to raise money for breast cancer. They meet a survivor who is walking around. Breast cancer is a cause close to my heart as a few members in my family have had it and I know I can get it. After walking for a cause, Sam goes for a cooking lesson. She helps to make tiramisu.

They finish on Nassau. CARNIVAL! They visit a center, where we learn this Carnival is not held on Shrove Tuesday but after Christmas. Sam tries on a Carnival costume. They hold a mini Carnival with noise makers and a line dance. Liz and Hubby want fritters so they go to find some with Sam and Mom. K and Pete go on a carriage ride around the island. They go down the Queen’s Steps before returning to the boat.

For the last night, they go to the ship’s fanciest restaurant for dinner. They toast their vacation. Sam leaves to go make their dessert. It’s a sampler and Mom is impressed. The gang decides to go dancing and raid their closet for the most 70’s items they have. Pete even has an afro wig. They boogie the night away.

Quote of the Episode:

“The bald guy needs a hair net?” Sam at the distillery.

54 Days to Go: Blizzard Beach

If you don't feel like going to Typhoon Lagoon but still want to spend a day in a water park, the other Disney option is Blizzard Beach.

The story behind Blizzard Beach is that once upon a time, a freak snowstorm hit Florida. Excited, the state rushed to build its first ski resort. However, the weather soon returned to normal and the ski runs were turned into water slides. The snowy effect was kept and Blizzard Beach was born. The park is broken into sections based on slopes: Red Slope, Purple Slope, and Green Slope. There is also a ground level with its own lazy river. My family loves lazy rivers--it's just an awesome way to get wet and just lounge around.

There are places for eating in Blizzard Beach and coolers are welcome inside the park.

55 Days to Go: Disney Tip (#3)

Hmm, I've been thinking about which tip I wish to bestow on you this time around...Hmm...

So, you've arrived at the parks and you can't decide what to do first? You know you want to fastpass some rides, but wait are the wait times? What rides are closed today? Is there a place to find this all out? Yes, there is. Each park as a board set up that will tell you the wait times for each ride and whether or not the ride is closed. In the Magic Kingdom, this board is located right on Main Street, USA, as you approach Cinderella's Castle. In Epcot, it is a high-tech electronic board located near the Imagination Pavilion, near the entrance to the World Showcase. Hollywood Studios' can be find on either Hollywood or Vine. As for the Animal Kingdom's...well, we're not there often enough for me to note.

So don't be afraid to search out these boards. They can be helpful. Though, don't always take them at their word. Sometimes a ride goes down temporarily and it takes a while for the cast member in charge of the board to return it's status to "open."

56 Days to Go: Typhoon Lagoon

In addition to the various parks and hotels making up the Walt Disney World Resort, there are also two main water parks. The first one is Typhoon Lagoon.

The story of Typhoon Lagoon is that a once beautiful and clean tropical island fell victim to a typhoon, leaving debris and ships everywhere. The main ship is Miss Tilly, perched on top of Mount Mayday. Besides Typhoon Lagoon, the park is made up of different sections. The part known as Typhoon Lagoon hosts the world's largest outdoor wave pool. Miss Tilly is located in the Mount Mayday section and houses the park's water slides. For those who just want to relax by a beach, Hideaway Bay offers such an opportunity and also hosts a water coaster for the thrill seekers dragged there by family/loved ones. Shark Reef is comprised of reefs and snorkeling is available in the section. These are all connected by Castaway Creek, a lazy river ride that also serves as a mode of transport around the park.

Typhoon Lagoon can be an all-day excursion, so there are places to eat there. You can either buy food from the counter service or provide your own picnic lunch. My family and I tend to shy away from Typhoon Lagoon though we normally go in the summer. It is often very crowded and if we needed some aquatic time, we'd just jump in the pool or take a tumble down Splash Mountain.

57 Days to Go: Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

And with this entry, my Disney Hotel series ends. The final installment is the last of the "Big Three" and considered the Disney flagship resort: the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

The resort is designed to model those of the Victorian era, ones the rich would've flocked to for a summer along the beach. It is known by its white walls and red roofs and can be spotted along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon. The lodges that hold the rooms are named after islands in the Florida Keys. The Grand Floridian also hosts the wedding chapel on the Disney property (though it costs an arm and a leg to get married there!).

In keeping with the Victorian theme, the main dining experience there is Victoria & Albert's, named after the royal couple. There is also a spa contained within the grounds.

Like the other "Big Three," the Grand Floridian is located on the monorail line. It is also a Magic Kingdom resort and considered in the "deluxe" price range.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Today is the one year anniversary of when I start this blog! And it's been an adventure, I'll say. Thanks to everyone who has given it a glance over, a serious read and, especially, commented.

58 Days to Go: Contemporary Resort

The second in my "Big Three" Disney Hotels here in the Hotel series: The Contemporary Resort!

I often wonder if the designer of this resort was ever bored while thinking of a "contemporary" designed and started playing around with objects on his desk. He saw a matchbook, put it upside down and thought "There's my hotel!" This is the Contemporary Tower and there are wings which house additional rooms. This is the main building and also houses the Grand Councourse. The concourse is decorated with mosaics.

The Contemporary is home to the California Grill, a restaurant dining experience that also offers exquisite views of the fireworks from the Magic Kingdom. It also has my family's favorite restaurant, Chef Mickey's, a buffet where there is always something to celebrate! My mother chose to celebrate her birthday there and enjoyed when the characters came out to bring her her birthday cupcake.

The Contemporary is linked to the monorail system, the trains run right through the Grand Concourse. It's one of the things that has given my family pause about staying there, but others who have swear you do not hear the monorail. It is a Magic Kingdom resort and considered in the "deluxe" range.

Give Him His Colored Coat!

(Once again, sorry for the delay. When given the option between the Tonys and Any Dream Will Do, I'm sure you all understood I'd go for the Tonys--even if I ended up missing Bret Michaels' beaning himself on a piece of scenery).

Last week on "Any Dream Will Do:" It was the (not-so) live semifinals. The boys soared to new heights but in the end, Ben fell short of the final. Keith, Lee and Lewis now battle it out to be Joseph on the West End stage. Who will wear the technicolor coat? Find out on last night's (not-so) live finale!

Andrew Lloyd Webber begs the public to pick the right guy--it could make or break someone's career. Graham's voiceover tells us that now, the public is entirely in control.

Graham suit watch: Gold suit and red shirt. He welcomes us to the (not-so) live finale and introduces a children's choir. All 12 Josephs sing "Go, Go Joseph" one last time along with the children. For a while, it looked like they were showing the order the Joes were kicked off in, but that got screwed up when Rob followed Antony rather than Chris B. The Not Josephs pile their coats in Graham's arms and let our 3 finalists take center stage. Graham introduces us to the Brentwood Primary choir. For the confused Americans, the BBC ran a contest in which children choirs were allowed to submit themselves to be considered to perform at the final. The public voted for the school. Did they cut out his "They're like people only smaller" line? I loved that line! Anyway, we have our panel (Zoe Tyler, Bill Kenwright, Denise "Jazz Hands" van Outen and John Barrowman) as well as a powerless Webber. As the Phantom overture ends, the chandelier behind Webber's head falls. He then stops short of agreeing that all 3 finalists could be Joseph. Hmm.

We find out the final 3 went to...Majorca! Webber and the boys do a Bond send up, complete with Weber stroking a (fake) cat. Wait, he couldn't use one of his own? The guys enjoy thier vacation but talk about the show. Ooh, David Tennant's in the audience. I miss not having a regular Doctor Who season. Back to 2007, Graham gets in a Paris Hilton joke before we go to Lewis' package. He was so glad to get to the finale. He cried just making the final 12! He talks about the criticism, the self-doubt, the crying. But since Webber's saved him, he knows he must have something. I still think Webber and England are in a grudge match. Webber wants Lewis and the others to be showmen. You kicked the showman off last week, Webber. Anyway, Lewis sings "Kiss." All I can picture now is "Happy Feet." And he's competing with Hugh Jackman in my mind. But vocally and stage-wise, Lewis brings his A-game. I forgot Lewis is a dancer. I'd think he'd be better in a singing-and-dancing role, which Joseph isn't.

Graham contragulates Lewis on his 18th birthday and Lewis says he has to believe in himself. John liked Lewis' number but wished he had done it earlier. Bill calls hm a star and a winner. Webber says he liked Lewis' journey.

Coming Up: Zoe loves Keith.

We come back to Keith's package. He reminds us he was working in a grocery store and ended up in Joseph School. He thought he blew it when he forgot his song, but thanks them for saving him. We see praise, praise and then questions about his age. But he wants it so bad. Webber wants showman. Get used to that word. Keith sings "For Once in My Life." Well, after Ben, Keith is a great showman. It's a great performance. It's also a perfect choice for the finale.

Keith can't believe he's there and feel's lucky. Zoe says his is the voice of Joseph. She's really impressed. Denise says he can lead a West End company. She also praises the fact that his voice didn't show he was battling tonsilitis. Webber thinks he could be Joseph.

Coming Up; Denise finds Lee sexy. *Cue the Wedding March*

Lee finishes us up with his package. He reminds us that he was an understudy and was taking a great risk. We see Lee being hard on himself but then deciding to just enjoy himself. He wants to be Joseph. Webber wants showman (again) and telling a story. Lee sings "Devil in Disguise." Any surprise he's wearing black? Didn't think so. I think once my laptop is back, I'm getting this version of the song. Love it, love him! He can command the stage and tell a story.

"Meady Rocks"? Wha?

Graham calms the audience and Lee says he wants the role more than anything. John calls him a super star and a leading man. He and Graham go to Zoe for tuning issues. She says she's been hard on Lee but everything is forgiven tonight. Bill praises Lee's ability to make a song his own while Denise reminds us her future husband is sexy. Webber asks about Lee's missed note but then praises him.

Coming Up: Lewis is legal!

We get a performance recap before going back to...MAJORCA! The boys go to meet with Webber. He offers advice. He tells Lee to be a comedian, showman (again!) and singer all at once. Keith gets told to continue to show maturity and authority. Webber comments on Lewis' journey and he (Lewis) says he's grown. They all celebrate Lewis' birthday and he toasts the final three. We go back to the studios and Graham says they'll perform Big Band songs. Webber mentions the code word of the day: Shomanship. I believe you Pee-Wee's Playhouse fans know what do now.

Lewis sings "Beyond the Sea." His voice fits the Big Band era perfectly! Lewis tells the voters at he has the drive to be Joseph. Zoe comments on his vocals. She says she's proud of him. Bill mentions Nana Jean and says not to write Lewis off. Webber says that Lewis would be a young Joseph and an interesting one to watch during previews.

Coming Up: Bill thinks Lee is a West End star.

Keith sings "Moon Dance." I ask my sister if her school jazz band played this and she thinks they might have. Chris B and Ben clap along. While so far, Keith and Lewis are excelling at Big Band, I would love to see Ben tackle a song. Keith finished strong. That, ladies and gentlemen, was a power note. Keith tells the votes that he's taken direction well and he can be Joseph. Denise calls him "hot, hot, hot!" She praises his movement. John praises his ballad singing and that he's grown into a leading man. Denise calls him a young John. I'M NOT ALONE! Webber isn't as sure about Keith.

Lee gets my hometown's Big Band ballad--"New York, New York." And he does the Big Apple proud. I'm just going to drown in his vocals. Be back. That was the very definition of "showstopper." Another for the download list. Lee tells the voters that Joseph was his first show and that drives his passion. He's given up so much for the role. Bill apologizes for not recognizing Lee's talent earlier, only making him an understudy. He calls Lee a West End star. Zoe continues to just sing praises as does Webber. He thinks Lee can make any song work.

Coming Up: The first elimination Webber has no control over!

The final three perform one last time together, singing "Maria" from West "End" Story...Graham coreects himself and says "West SIDE Story." I swear, the panel turned around in unison. This Bernstein-Sondheim ballad is absolutely gorgeous even in a trio. Honestly, I think Lee and Lewis shone in that one. But now, we have ELIMINATION! Lee is the first through to the final. He celebrates. That leaves Keith and Lewis to sweat it out. The third place Joseph is...Lewis. England finally won it's second grudge match with Webber after Ben's booting. The audience loves Lewis and he thanks everyone. Lewis declines to name a winner from our final 2. Webber praises Lewis but the not Joseph sings our last "Close Every Door." Keith and Lee are joined by the children's choir. Lee and Keith struggle to get his coat off but Lewis finishes.

Bravo, sir.

Coming Up: Lee v. Keith

Graham promises us a Joseph within the next half hour. Lewis says its been an amazing experience. He thanks Webber. He joins the other Not Josephs. Graham reintroduces the panel and when he gets to Webber, they play "I've Got the Power!" "No, you don't," Graham remids him. There's another Joe pun before we get recaps of Keith's and Lee's performances. The two finalists will sing encores of their best performances. Wisely, Keith performs "Always on my Mind." It's still a lovely ballad. John's right--these are his strong suit. Paging Stephen Schwartz! Lee follows that with "Paint It Black." Duh. Once again, our poll winner! Between these two performances, it's hard to pick a winner. Good luck, 2007 England!

Coming Up: Lee's Mum!

Graham goes into the audience to talk to Keith's mother, Denise's future mother-in-law, and Jason Donovan. The mothers talk up their sons. Graham turns to Jason, who likes them both. He leaves it to the public to decide. Graham brings the 10 Not Josephs out to sing "The Boys are Back in Town." They could go on tour as their own show!

Coming Up: Bad criticisms all around!

Webber praises Tim Rice's lyrics for "Jesus Christ Superstar" and doesn't comment much after that. Keith and Lee perform the song. Sorry, Keith, I think Lee just blew you off the stage. They hug at the end as the audience goes nuts. Graham announces that the two will sing for votes no more. He sends us back on the journey. Appropriately, they play "Under Pressure" for the crying. Ooh, HOT GUYS IN LOINCLOTHES! I'm still mad at you, producers.

Coming Up: THE WINNER!

It's the moment of truth. Keith and Lee come down to hear the results. Three million votes were casted that night. And Joseph is...milking it...LEE MEAD! YES! (Alright, I knew. It's still great to see). Keith hugs Lee and then joins his family. The audience is still going nuts. Lee gets a hug from Graham. He tears up. Stop it, the show's run out of tissues. He thanks his supporters and promises a great show. Is Webber happy? Yes, he is. Graham sends Lee to get his coat and thanks Webber, John, Denise, Bill, Zoe and the band.

We finish with Lee singing "Any Dream Will Do" in his coat of many colors. The panel sings along. As do the Not Josephs. Sing it, Lee! The Not Josephs storm the stage and lift Lee hight, chanting his name.

And thus, the West End has it's star. Congrats, Lee!

Quote of the Episode:

"It's the end of the series, they'll be lots more." Graham on the Joe puns.

Well, it's the end! Happy with the results? Once again, I'll be recapping "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?" I hope you all come back for those. They should start soon. Also, I will be giving updates on the Josephs, hopefully once my laptop comes back. Thanks to all those who read and commented, especially Chrissi! Thanks also to the people at the Ben James-Ellis fan website and The Stage Blog who linked to my blog and who read it.

59 Days to Go: Polynesian Resort

We reach the "Big Three" as I like to call them in my Disney Hotel series. This one is the Polynesian Resort.

Sitting along side the Seven Seas Lagoon, the Polynesian Resort is designed to evoke the feel of the islands of Polynesia. The main building, the Ceremonial Lodge, is Tahitian in design. It's the closest you can come to feeling like Hawaii without leaving the mainland. This point is proven by my mother when she and my father went to Hawaii for their honeymoon. She said it felt just like the Polynesian Resort, a sentiment echoed by my sister and I twenty years later. My father snapped not to say that because he could spend less to take us to Disney World rather than Hawaii. Guest rooms are housed in eight longhouses named after Polynesian islands, much like the Caribbean Resort.

The main restaurant at the Polynesian is Ohana's (Fans of Lilo and Stitch will remember that "Ohana" means family). My family has eaten there, but I haven't. I do believe we will be making a stop there on our vacation. Besides the pool, there are several other activities for you to do if you wish to spend time enjoying the hotel. There is the Never Land Club for kids and a spa for the adults.

The Polynesian is a Magic Kingdom resort. It, along with the other "Big Three," is connected to the Magic Kingdom on the monorail line. It is also serviced by a ferry and buses. Once again, it is a deluxe hotel.

Any Dream Will Do: Delayed

Sorry, Joseph fans! Due to the Tony Awards tonight, I taped the final of Any Dream Will Do and will be recapping it tomorrow.

Also, I will start my recaps of "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria" tomorrow as well.

I do have one winner to announce--the results of my polls! Eighty-one percent of you voted Lee's "Paint It Black" as the best performance on the show. The 19% voted for Ben's "Help Yourself." Congrats!

Tony Round Up!

Neil Patrick Harris as tonight's Tony host? One word: Legend...wait for it...

Congrats to tonight's big winners: Angela Lansbury, Marcia Gay Harden, Gregory Jbara, Alice Ripley, Karen Olivo, the producers of The Norman Conquests, Gods of Carnage, Hair and Billy Elliot the Musical, and to the three Billys who made Tony History by sharing their Best Actor in a Musical Tony win.

I think that was one of the best, if slightly confusing, openings ever.

And now some of my favorite quotes:

“Go presidential. Barack of Ages. Phantom of the Oprah. She’s practically president. Bama Mia.” –NPH’s tip to Broadway producers.

“Wait, I may not be Andrew Lloyd Sondheim…”—Rock of Ages

“That was me playing Barry Gibb in Our Town the Disco Version”—John Stamos.

“Oh, that’s my Oscar acceptance speech”—Frank Langella, pulling cards out of his pocket

“And they managed to keep their clothes on and everything.”—Kristin Chenoweth, about the cast of Hair.

“Coming out for the second time this month—David Hyde Pierce!”—NPH introducing Pierce as a presenter

...dary.

60 Days to Go: Disney Memories (#2)

With the last entry reminding me about my character breakfast at the Wilderness Lodge, I've decided to share some other character dining experiences:

--At an ice cream social held at the California Grill, Chip comes over and tries to pull my dad's shirt off. It takes a few minutes to realize he's actually tugging at the emblem on the shirt. My dad worked for ABC when it was taken over by Disney and we had one company picnic (One. Disney, I love them, but boy are they cheap!). At the picnic, everyone was given a shirt with the Disney gang printed on them. Chip was trying to pull at himself to show that he was on my dad's shirt! My dad and Chip then started to get a few laughs at mocking how cheap Eisner was.

--At Chef Mickey's, we were with a large group of friends when they started to giggle. My back was to the main room so I didn't know what was going on. Suddenly, I feel my hair start to be mussed with--pushed on top of my head and then over my face. I turned around and there's Dale, playing with my hair.

--A few from the Liberty Tree Tavern: Keeping with the theme, Chip signed my sister's autograph book and then threw it into the fireplace. Our last trip, Dale tried to run off with my poncho after posing for some pictures. And finally, we learned you should never give Goofy a bell. As some cast members brought out a cake for a lucky birthday patron, Goofy rang the bell so hard and so often, our ears were ringing by the end of the celebration.

And one from trips past, told often by my parents:

At Fort Wilderness, there was once a breakfast with Melvin the Moose (when he isn't at Country Bear Hall, he lives in Pioneer Hall). The Country Bears were part of the breakfast and when they came in, my dad said he had never seen my toddler self move so fast. I crawled over him and away from where the bears were.

So, I would suggest doing a character meal at least once during your foray to Disney. Memories will be made and the food's good!

The Other Side of Beantown

When I went to Boston, my family and I focused on the history. Sam’s weekend in Boston is entirely different.

Sam starts Friday night at an Italian festival in East Boston. She learns how to toss a pie but enjoys chowing down more. She joins a biachi game before…entering a sausage eating competition?? She takes her place with a bunch of guys at the table. Let’s see if Sam is still standing after ten minutes. She stares in awe at her competitors as she takes her time with her sausages. At the end of the competition, Ian won. Someone get Sam some anti acid.

Sam meets up with an old friend, Glen, for a yoga class. She even gets a private lesson. He guides her through some of the poses. She thinks this is payback for some childhood taunting. Sam says good-bye to Glen and goes to find more food.

But first, she takes a trip to the Boston Commons to view a dragon dance by some Chinese Bostonians. They let Sam join after telling her how women wouldn’t have been allowed to do this in ancient times. Sam gets to play with the giant drum before going to Revere Beach for the food. She goes to Kelly’s and gets to go into the kitchen. They let her use the deep fryer, frying clams. Why am I not surprised? They next let her handle the window. We even get treated to a Bostonian accent when Sam asks for the tartar sauce.

After the rush, Sam goes to hang out on the beach. She watches people come to watch the sunset over the beach.

After the sun goes down, Sam goes to a swing dance club. She partners up with Rick, who guides her through the dances. She tells us that while the dancing was fun, her feet hurt. So what does Sam do? She goes to the bar, duh. Hey, the bartender mentions mocktails! We used to have those served at events at my college. I loved our strawberry daiquiri mocktails. She feels she’s in trouble because her bartender can make some great drinks.

Sam starts Sunday with a private sailing lesson at the Boston Sailing Center. They get the boat ready and wait for the wind to take them out to Boston Harbor. She and her instructor have to watch out for ships as it is an active harbor, much like boating around New York Harbor. She asks to see the USS Constitution and we get a shot of Old Ironsides herself.

Sam finishes at the Suffolk Downs, visiting the race horses. She tries to pick a winner. She watches as they parade the horses around and gets some advice from the locals. She puts money on horse number one. She was originally going to bet on “She’s on Fire,” who eventually wins the race. Sam goes to throttle the nice locals who encouraged her to switch. She bets on her friend’s horse, Hint Hint Hint. The horse comes in sixth. Sam’s determined to win. She bets on 2,5,6,9. Sam doesn’t win again. By the way, congrats to those who bet on Summer Bird at the Belmont and sorry to those who picked Mine that Bird.

Next week: Sam brings her mother and some friends on a cruise. Will they all survive?

Quote of the Episode:
“I’m getting into some rough waters with Gilligan.”—Sam at swing dancing

If you want to read about my trip to Boston last summer and/or see my pictures, they are right here on my blog under my August 2008 entries!

61 Days to Go: Disney's Wilderness Lodge

From one lodge to another, the next entry in my Disney Hotels series is the Wilderness Lodge (not to be confused with Fort Wilderness).

The Wilderness Lodge is designed to evoke the spirit of the American Northwest. It looks like a place one might stay while visiting Yellowstone or Yosemite National Parks. The Disney artists were also heavily influenced by the Native American tribes that roamed the Northwest and this influence is prominent in the lodge. The lodge also has a working geyser, like Old Faithful, and hot springs. Like the Animal Lodge, it also has a concierge level for those who wish to be extra pampered.

The Wilderness Lodge boasts two restaurants. The first is Artist Point, which specializes in dishes inspired by the American Northwest. For a family atmosphere, Whispering Canyon Cafe is noted for its funny wait staff and how they keep the children entertained. I once attended a character breakfast there with my family. That's when I fell in love with the hotel and swore I would stay there one day.

The Wilderness Lodge is connected to the Magic Kingdom and Fort Wilderness Resort by a ferry boat.

It is considered a deluxe hotel and part of the Magic Kingdom resorts.

62 Days to Go: Animal Kingdom Lodge

Love animals? Have a child that does? Then book yourself into the next hotel in my series, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. 

Designed to evoke a lodge in the African wilderness, the hotel property also houses a wildlife preserve. Guests can see various animals from their windows and while out on the property. I always joke that the vultures perch outside the guests' rooms. "Oh, you're up? Never mind then." If you're worried about coming too close to an animal, don't worry. There are little barriers to prevent this from happening. A friend of ours likes to stay on the 6th floor (the concierge floor) of this resort and loves to tell the story of giraffes coming up to fences that don't even reach their knees, but turning around because something's in their path. We visited the resort once while he was there, going swimming in their pool (and sliding down their water slide). While we were splashing each other, a giraffe poked its head out from some trees, looked around and then seemed to think "People in the watering hole again." He pulled his head back in and we rushed out of the pool due to a surprise rain storm. 

While visiting our friend, he took us to Boma: Flavors of Africa. It's a buffet of African cuisine and is absolutely delicious. Just don't ask what you're eating. No, seriously, that's what the people working the place told my family when we went. I just asked to be pointed to the poultry and figured I was safe. Please don't pop my bubble. 

As the name suggests, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is next to the Animal Kingdom. It is also considered a deluxe hotel. 

63 Days to Go: Boardwalk Inn

In the next installment of my Disney hotel series, we go across from the Beach and Yacht Club to Disney's Boardwalk Inn Resort.

Designed to evoke the feel of the 1900s, the Boardwalk was designed after the boardwalks that sprung up in Atlantic City and Ocean City, which grew in popularity as people flocked to the Jersey shore in order to escape the heat and crowds of the city. The rooms are built around the boardwalk, which over looks the lagoon that separates it from the Beach and Yacht Club as well as the back entrance to Epcot.

Even if you don't stay at the Boardwalk, I suggest a visit to it. Along the boardwalk are several restaurants, including the ESPN Club and Big River Grille and Brewing Works. My family loves to eat at the Big River Grille, which also houses its own brewery. You can dine and watch them brew the beer at the same time. The last time we went, the building was under refurbishment so Big River had been relocated to the Atlantic Dance Hall (which turns into a dance club every night). My mother and I had grilled chicken over penne covered in marinara sauce which was delicious.

The Boardwalk is listed as an Epcot resort and falls under "Deluxe" on the pricing list.

64 Days to Go: Disney's Beach and Yacht Club

Continuing with my Disney hotel series, I've finally moved on to the Deluxe level of hotels--for those who want to pay the big bucks and/or make the most of their Disney vacation. First up is the Beach and Yacht Club.

These are technically two separate hotels but share amenities and staffs. They are often combined in reference as well. The Beach Club is styled to look like a turn-of-the-century seaside resort. There is also a fifth floor concierge level for those willing to pay the price and want to be treated like VIPs. One of the main attractions of the Beach Club that I want to go to is the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. It is a burger joint and ice cream shoppe. They have a specialty called "The Kitchen Sink Sundae" because it includes everything plus the kitchen sink (no joke, the ice cream is served in a kitchen sink). I don't have a big enough stomach to handle such a task (unless about ten people want to split one with me. Any takers?) so I'll just have a regular sundae.

The Yacht Club is designed to make guests feel like they are staying aboard a ship. The hotel comes with a fancy restaurant called the Yachtsman Steakhouse and a less-formal dining experience called the Captain's Grille. It also shares Stormalong Bay with the Beach Club, a beach along one of the lakes inside Walt Disney World.

Besides the bus to and from the parks, you can also reach the Beach and Yacht clubs by boat. A ferry runs between the hotels, the Swan, the Dolphin, the Boardwalk, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Epcot is also a five minute walk from the hotels. Guests can access the park via the International Gate. This will lead you to an area between the France Pavilion and the United Kingdom pavilion. Because of this, the resort is labeled an "Epcot" resort.

65 Days to Go: Disney Tip (#2)

Time for my second Disney Tip!

This one will help you shopping around the World. See something you like? Something that would be perfect for even the most finicky person on your "Souvenir" list? Don't want to carry around that bag all day, on and off rides? Staying in a Disney resort? There is a solution!

As long as you are not checking out within the next 24 hours, you can ask the cashier at any Disney store to send the packages to your room. They will take your hotel information (provided it is only a Disney resort) and send your purchase the next day. You can ask at the hotel where you would pick up the packages, but it is usually at the hotel store.

So, shop without worrying about what you are going to do with your baggages. Disney has them taken care of.

66 Days to Go: Port Orleans Resort

In the last hotel in the moderate range, the Port Orleans Resort is the next installment in my Disney Hotel Series.

Port Orleans Resort opened in 1991 to reflect the architecture of New Orleans' French Quarter. In 2001, it was renamed Port Orleans French Quarter. It was then merged with Disney's Dixie Landings, which was renamed Port Orleans Riverside. This part of the resort was styled to represent an antebellum South, particularly along the mighty Mississippi River. It's two sections, Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend, were kept intact. This resort is located in the Downtown Disney section of the World.

Besides the Riverside Mill Food Court (Riverside) and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (French Quarter), the resort also have a sit-down service restaurant called Boatwright's Dining Hall. Each resort that comprises Port Orleans has its own music hall--Riverside has the ragtime club called River Roost while the French Quarter has a jazz club called Scat Cat's Club.

The resort also has Ol' Man Island, a recreational area that houses a pool hall, a playground, and Port Orleans' pool. It also features a fishing hole for those who wish to bond with their families while fishing.

Once again, I haven't been to this resort though my dad stayed at Riverside when it was still Dixie Landings. I had a Dixie Landings shirt for a few years until I outgrew it. I think I need to replace it with a Port Orleans' shirt.