tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20870195883673194682023-11-16T01:56:52.677-06:00Ashleigh Makes A WishAworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-86980951725312187012008-08-19T09:53:00.007-05:002008-08-19T10:38:56.055-05:00GKTW Castle of Miracles<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236247844947773362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyH9AeFZrAB5OgS3RlxIgCCRJKpQi1s5LHs6ZX6gjBkp11hBQGmcklFoHlojMyXOAxR3ntnfF4fDvn87dS0p7Gn73VUvhNVTz5fpFzhNHxtPKYzhKLMu1qquLCopPCO9cObUvhC8-_743/s320/0380+Castle+of+Miracles.jpg" border="0" />This was probably the neatest place at GKTW. There were so many things in this one building so check out. First of all, it is decorated as an old fashioned castle and the Carousel is attached on the outside covered with a mushroom cover. There is even a moat with a lochness monster guarding things.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236247858829802882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxhY7O7YdeIMdfDvUwDKbnBaYXl8EdiX6_Y6L-i_ffhZznowgE01MeYQz3FVhy250WOQyPp1CVZNEE0lQf1n-aL6KaVCuLZUsxNoiJ6GhYkb2YP4LyZEBbBgpe1zPN_w_rmM4sTrPCWFg/s320/06240049.JPG" border="0" /><br />When you enter the Castle, you are greeted by a coat of armor. His name is Rusty!</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236247851359601250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHoedemQ5tigJDlQRArujUy5b6Z8_fNU00wjM1Dm4AvPGLloqbO19wbn_GYGOnOJg4dZwOim8ZjE4VHL_G8Jeu5mipBScrnOyUh5_fcEJkgPvHVWSfw8MgN0VfQULJQ8MiMqGL0I6qbXu/s320/0410+Castle+of+Miracles+-+Rusty.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>To your right is a "game" room. They call it the Fe Fi Fo Fun room. It has a "control center" where you can put different animated characters on the screen and make them move with different buttons and switches. There is a television playing kids movies, and lots of toys for the little kids. The coolest thing to me was the giant peeking in through the ceiling!</div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236248487666160306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEr5DpJYQ8p-Y3TAw3zpPsc9o6JddNyuTjRI2hG8eK0V_VqubKsk_nlVNHpGctE1JwVAT1n5igcR9fTEoV1xlFoAnrqiJUsHf1ALZ5oCQnI-5JXCijWpbugnxrvSxJthf4eZiWhukIu4X/s320/06240050.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236248485142925906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zywo32DS-k5ivYlAL89cw8lZuwuxGGfyCuR6VAEuQUQMKlDR5skTVx_ldoWGISCm0p5bISb8w-nc1w-BuWIMj9UjbsZEi53C5eICpNVwXzavfhF6ia2aBjH29w2ytJemWRdA_T9ckZK8/s320/06240051.JPG" border="0" /> The main room of the castle is where the stars of all the wish kids are. They are all over the ceiling and they have had to add banners to hold more stars. (I have already posted pics of this earlier). Ashleigh's star is on the first banner. This is where the king and queen thrones are. During the Christmas celebration, we met Mrs. Claus here.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236251017359625266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqpUygqy_RBluC2vLOOAxdqJ6W8cU3KPu-rj88ogz_THfbxbeO2oNKJ0NG-CsrnWYrkTZI6g9Xv0HypedLvv3rIDagiPo-XEYfMiRx4_CGSZrS9UrHdegieqZ-Z6-dHRAg873b84EyzsB/s320/06240060.JPG" border="0" />Just to the left of this big room is another play area. They have a few tables for coloring and drawing. My favorite is the wishing well. There is a bucket full of pennies. You can help yourself and throw some into the well. Sometimes, you hear nothing but the clink of the coins, but other times you hear the sound of breaking glass, or someone yelling or my favorite, someone burping! It was pretty silly. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236250128780956466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhr9XQb8I3jmS9YlWlE7pw-D4TRcfSAvMRyozKgIL1YnXoeRGxrKFa-X_VS1P33PKs6rtmXeAuoA8BN_qWz3zEuATmyqEmq0R5LomfseIBgnaeACCbUzPUFhy5dZJMkV-SQtn02_5cjWz/s320/0490+Castle+of+Miracles+-+Wishing+Well.JPG" border="0" /> There is a wall with tons of drawers. You could open them. Some of them had toys inside and some of them made a noise.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236247861815713730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKLe6Dr-ZcwyKnxibbSwyVH3tNgZfy44x22RR-LLApWVun_ZfpK7Oo5eq3uS4b7I2R6IWtH80ngGWbQBASyM4a8chlCpoeAonQIx3WK29Gptg0ebChLg4wtU61JihqeMihrT0usy_b4hw/s320/0500+Castle+of+Miracles+-+Silly+Doors+and+Drawers.JPG" border="0" /> They have a miagic pillow machine here also. Each child is given a coupon to make a magic pillow. The machine squeeks and rattles and blows bubbles as the child tries to "control" it. Then it spits out a special pillow just for the child. It is really cool!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236250116191021186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjh6UtpF1uwc5aii9E8FyWSna7whd4GFGPaje_6PeXoqxvXdWAvR5QevfnFrZL-NU9548FtAIPN1VV1ZTJmES3f3ZwT-wcKP1baX2NDdYOiaOYfTvewOjZiUjghGuElaHAvNqerlWDLN2/s320/06240087.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236250117122271298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkwAMMsFQb7kxYnZnuuYZ-7LbkM6jblTCDk69OTPYZ8WF41AAUd5L5haCDZQkFTwYGiBFbsF6Md7WnhcMigWe_rjgALIHCahlEFQ0IAIISVoElm0WluR0NGLHYmPsgvvLSzly15WZnFcRJ/s320/06240088.JPG" border="0" /><br />This area also has a really cool magic mirror. "Mirror, Mirror on the wall, Who's the fairest of them all?" Pull the lever, and suddenly your image is complete with a crown and royal cape!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236248491313743826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoiOSYItE5XfSsckWXzOD5OU35kJiquHKIV-LYCgfLBare1csrfTpZV0AcgAQyKXTZhM_xghglw9Oql1MrIgdt2Yie35BsszM8FTmsLS_BjVpre5NwbMe88gMTn5lPpfZxGNLPMwc-29pG/s320/06240056.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236248493316405202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThiomy3nd1ArxEaRYr-QSDkoYYe5JPiNqG3ua3ZdC9oY4iWLQBP47wLIw4LUFSbNkLG258KoWL3w1_2kKSY1uyr0PZtIohsP5wXZYVFaUt8yn_qCpcu-D3mpMnUe03q0txocbreitvGZ7/s320/06240057.JPG" border="0" />In the back of the castle is a little activity room with a tunnel and slide called the Jolly Hollow. It is decorated like a forest, and has little peepholes where you can peep in and see a family of mice. You can hear crickets chirping and when you enter the tunnel, it sounds like bees are following you! There are lighted footprints that lead up to the slide. Our girls were a little big for this area, but Ashleigh did try out the slide once.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236251018864321858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttlscjg80P5iCSQ-oSUipFZHIP5k9e4C7iPKVWiKsNAl4FWSAqam6DUBlIferk2Tq-X3gkIFSXl_2XXOcXCs6nUhaHY3bPGeGVmzz6LBYaXCNCd1k2ddrKoaALIRfk1sbUg6XxFZm7Gy7/s320/06240066.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>It was a really neat place, and every morning when we left our villa we could see the back of it, we were that close!</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-71801456482584887732008-07-30T07:18:00.006-05:002008-07-30T08:06:38.505-05:00GKTW Odds and Ends (part 1)<div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_jOlpxOzUJQefNWfqe_7svPJkzvBnBKX4QvorP1PzoIwjLbvrCBqML_VjLFpZ9zYq81ic-9KAyspkKznbgByN4n9nIIXtovb4CgufrVkirm8sc7zEnxRmL3p4cVRSjwj2XIY7F_vPEUW/s1600-h/06240042.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228782810839700898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_jOlpxOzUJQefNWfqe_7svPJkzvBnBKX4QvorP1PzoIwjLbvrCBqML_VjLFpZ9zYq81ic-9KAyspkKznbgByN4n9nIIXtovb4CgufrVkirm8sc7zEnxRmL3p4cVRSjwj2XIY7F_vPEUW/s320/06240042.JPG" border="0" /></a> Do you know what this is? It's a trash can! There are several of these characters around the campus, and all of them say "I Love You" on them. I believe there is a slight suction to them to help the trash go in. We had to keep Ashleigh away, she kept putting her hand in there! (she thought it was funny). </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228782815713331554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJBW9Jdyhr7mdEIKeLd1ludystkr1LV3Amb0KGMJkq1LszWxlierbv9YrOaLtncbKg0jmy2WZJQ5QwTr7dFT2sbBpk0q4xbVvbi5ys9UmjunL0uZHWIw8EZ-LDXhZmCm_IiFaTuqRi8nw0/s320/06240046.JPG" border="0" /> Here is a park bench that looks like it was created by a child or children. I was not able to find out the history of it, but there are also several of these around the campus. It could be a child who has passed away, or it could be donated by kids for kids. One thing I have learned, everything on the campus has a "story", but you don't always figure out what it is.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228782814464492674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYGlGKd7h9PCmei6AVQm9w3NVrliuJUpko8_VUUI5BJFiKKqWQNcPwEjOmpP9T8_VwXIjTrN334VhSQDBgat4Au2ZXof9tn_MuGaLUWqYReJBrwsnxeHGnehf7YCRdUnoUZy6YEFpYMiI/s320/06240043.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><p>This was a cool wall that we passed often on our walk to the many evening events at the theater. It is a mural, and it depicts many of our holidays. Thanksgiving, Halloween, Easter, Valentine's Day, Independence Day, Hanukkah and Christmas. The use of the animals was cute.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228786415258986258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZu8HYSL63oRgwELxZUROrOt20fGkC_oQF3dRuNJyzp-QxFp3XcCIuuEUynLAylByyxVL90Sg-SQUFRJTMQ7QV-zwqcrrK-su0TYVOcVQy2_9lB5poRhjaIIZ_WZ_hGXmM6gjQC55U6qP/s320/0340+Seasonal+Holiday+Wall.JPG" border="0" /></p></div><p>We saw these personalized stones in many places along the walkway through the main campus. I asked Alex one day if he had heard anything about these stones, but he had not. I believe he found some information later on their website. This is another way they raise funds. You can purchase a brick for $200 and have an inscription put on it. I think it is a really neat idea, and we plan on doing this, probably next year.</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228788173106865618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHUD5rO7AvdoR2Sjy7sVge5btFnUMAlGxW02E8j9GZWKruRpsEOvb52Znvn2jg4Mn0H_86AqdqnI2a9SACh99zHeGRhUjIsefNjcJ1dnFAujpN411p8a55SUKcoNKn-3SFixzuIQebsL9/s320/06240044.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>The House of Hearts is the first place you see when you drive through the entrance and past the guard house. It is the administration building. You check-in, attend orientation, rent a movie, get a camera, relax in the tv room, or ask any question! They are open 24 hours a day, so you can always get help if you need it. They have their processes down, and everything runs really smoothly. This is where I would take my laptop to update this blog while we were there because they have a high speed internet connection here. The people working here were great and we really appreciate them!</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228790530345794018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBuev9SaljhuOysKw1WzpXCWBPeXvIrWDeIRkbUcKSi1xFaOOiMmm8T_Nx5OlaBUa2S3Rl8k5PJwv73BN8PjadM-T9e9rQymlTbcOwCh1CRkEBHCo6ALfB9QMU4wJBHPKRxRjPFQ4bE1o/s320/06240017.JPG" border="0" />Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-55322529081095603242008-07-25T07:42:00.006-05:002008-07-25T08:28:46.234-05:00GKTW Movie Theater<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFZxAPmze7FkLqFWTpWYomxaH1ME2GuAKUuV3Jasq6Q7l7RMXDYjvPRChhILcQ-Mn48-o7jXG1hRRdQx6uZUfgXLFqej49PIc19FH_ZSUiIxMPsaJz3fdguF4h5Ci5mu5s8PXJLUWzLvF/s1600-h/06240027.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226933651584339746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFZxAPmze7FkLqFWTpWYomxaH1ME2GuAKUuV3Jasq6Q7l7RMXDYjvPRChhILcQ-Mn48-o7jXG1hRRdQx6uZUfgXLFqej49PIc19FH_ZSUiIxMPsaJz3fdguF4h5Ci5mu5s8PXJLUWzLvF/s320/06240027.JPG" border="0" /></a> Julie's Safari Theater is the main place for all the activites that happen on campus. Inside there are character meetings and pictures, Christmas pictures and presents, movies, the CandyLand party and games. Outside the theater is the main gathering place for more character meetings and parties. There is more space outside, but the theater is used in case of rain. We met many characters here, had the Princess and Pirates party and presentation and enjoyed face painting. The girls only ended up watching 1 movie here, we were too busy! They offer free refreshments anytime the theater is open including popcorn, icees, candy and sodas. Ashleigh could never pass up a trip to the refreshment counter!<br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226936480760217330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSBtz8aDgEE9oKn9X8y1bPxXPbVZubm4XmE-BtjhCmm-DqW30kCTMbS8Uuf0dNq4JgO_qaILMrRy26uo3T8VHjJ52KSddhJRLZnACaHz9g196cAgQVbPOR-BB2pxfyh7jb3ro8JUr2dH8/s320/0310+Julie%27s+Safari+Theater.JPG" border="0" />When I first saw the theater inside, I wondered how they fit everyone because I am used to a regular theater filled to capacity. Surprisingly, we never really had problems finding space. When there were parties, the kids would alternate between inside and outside and the movie that the girls went to (Enchanted), there was only 1 other person in there. During the character meetings, they have a line up to the stage to meet characters, and then you leave. The do have a ramp available up to the stage, so kids in wheelchairs can always meet the characters. Outside the theater, designed into the ground, is a medallion that has a picture of a child and the phrase "Make Today Count for Our Children." (If you look at the first picture above, you can see some of it on the ground in front of the theater). There is a design around the medallion that looks like sunshine rays. I didn't notice at first, but there are tiny "spots" in the rays and at night they light up. It looks like little stars and is really a beautiful sight as you walk around.</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226940567163519474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3NLuXjeVsCzIF55RDC5JCM1qvKSMbgRFCqUDfozwfEqjlZ5dDfMDSaqPfpgVE0u0gV6EDn2wqgHMVc82PENu_SDcLbUd5vVCzUJKlCJU2bMzVR3wg1s-ueXYQm3BFufw1buBF3OM0TYx/s320/06240102.JPG" border="0" />Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-24366998063838862362008-07-24T08:49:00.004-05:002008-07-24T09:02:29.494-05:00Universal Studios Islands of Adventure<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUE__1IywSejL56wSIzv3a423JIyL1oW0QZQqW5_VdiYK6BBDV91RdGcr8P7xMOjAZfSVBJ1N4WgKteJF8S4rAULHrG5-LceyKnkvwmdSo3jND5u7nVkrQhVFg_nMgmRThFxBLLYwtWML2/s1600-h/06290010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226580117477674338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUE__1IywSejL56wSIzv3a423JIyL1oW0QZQqW5_VdiYK6BBDV91RdGcr8P7xMOjAZfSVBJ1N4WgKteJF8S4rAULHrG5-LceyKnkvwmdSo3jND5u7nVkrQhVFg_nMgmRThFxBLLYwtWML2/s320/06290010.JPG" border="0" /></a> The last theme parks we made it to were Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Because of all the 3D and strobing and flashing lights, we did not spend a lot of time at Universal Studios. Ashleigh enjoyed Islands of Adventure though, and we were able to ride a lot of rides there. We started out at Jurassic Park with the pterodactyl ride. <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226579775094539970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkPiIM_IDjK0QH-QlkR_7uV_VgKHrFdRrNJboQFQcZaMDvXhzfWnfG_gCGgdLl-1iZbJvVYm-QIIeBA-ze7iPTLumhW75ZSVlh1wy-XllLTg0Xa7yHbc4y25hWPlVyOlgMXwiTZf3jygx/s320/06290012.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>It was a lot of fun, you could see most of the park while you were flying around, but it was so short! Because the regular line was at least an hour wait, and we were able to get right on with our pass, we only rode 1 time. We didn't want to cause much more delay for the people who waited patiently. We found a great roller coaster, the unicorn ride, and the girls loved it. It was tame compared to the Kraken, but at least we all rode together this time!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226579776610676162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5u3XtILarkzJl4Jk-UK63FrJQV1Xq5Vggvzooq9nc3Y2qdk7Du1iqkVXC3JA0kQEvye6ngu1GxpYnCweM2PcXbj630Ou0zOveevBTMaD4Tlygf2jdb5z48pYvXw5xpDW9l4pFMDuRo8Bv/s320/06290022.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226579784312760210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6CikJfvG1f3xnxG6OgAMOH4zTMgZx4JNvNJU9hsuLd8wTCV3cgqkrXWVk_bCe7G0pLRPCSmp3f1qaQ8VwqS7DB6JoJPcKGxPBOHUzHbl-KFEanFe_8-CoKQq-81FhLZz3fiKI-5alBJp/s320/06290023.JPG" border="0" /> Our favorite area was the Dr. Seuss section. Everything is Seuss-like, and the attention to detail was amazing. Street signs, rides, shops and decor all stuck to the theme. We rode everything in this land, and it was a lot of fun. After a quick jaunt to Universal Studios to see if we could ride one or two rides, we returned here for some funnel cake before we left for the day. Yum!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226579781995173138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9Zv3gl4QBlLMOEUz6f3WjwtEunNELgLXWQXKA2-slwV-oJAQWBro5Ji8wvrq2aMtsKqlHV1Zr8-vPo2YXoa17FseGIobCRRRvadhndnPP_CeJ-0SNPUX8W5esyFDMpSapfyWUagQ-8BM/s320/06290024.JPG" border="0" />Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-62843034317413174612008-07-22T07:14:00.004-05:002008-07-22T07:26:39.052-05:00GKTW Chapel<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkVGbPmCTds9H1zeifJWtbCbaId2CBs5pDx1ymYIxjzd-VCXwXe3UP9NXKH5kmHnF_CH6lwFpI0we_GkJTrGqP4NhnKkjszky45o9uUZ2SLoQWZclWQP_wfIh8hIrM3ULvSBV6ISMIJ4_/s1600-h/0640+Chapel.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225812956282061170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkVGbPmCTds9H1zeifJWtbCbaId2CBs5pDx1ymYIxjzd-VCXwXe3UP9NXKH5kmHnF_CH6lwFpI0we_GkJTrGqP4NhnKkjszky45o9uUZ2SLoQWZclWQP_wfIh8hIrM3ULvSBV6ISMIJ4_/s320/0640+Chapel.JPG" border="0" /></a> This beautiful chapel was built for families to have a quiet place to come and meditate or pray. Unfortunately, there are no formal services here. It is a small circular room, with a ceiling made to look like the sky. It is surrounded by beautiful stained glass windows depicting Faith, Hope, Love and Peace (GKTW calls them the "four seasons"). I posted these 4 windows on the sidebar to the right. We didn't spend much time here, but we did come and look around during parents night out. The windows are just gorgeous, and there are several books for guests to write in. We found several prayers written by young people who had returned to GKTW. It was very touching! <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225812963615639586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWprDnh6x8M46qUAphELs3YlMsixSCVVkb2ksICM0cvVV0Yyc2FNe64RfCXjmLLfc0_9J3VNJsUsyEz394U3hn-fAZdJKX4O_2wDg34EkJ9QaAtIkXulvVIdLjDpBAWLOE-9lKG99Jug6E/s320/0650+Chapel.JPG" border="0" /></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-69812810391425234962008-07-18T07:10:00.004-05:002008-07-18T07:19:07.842-05:00GKTW Animals<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sjGO8V7Xc8RSBJ30wkXfjuasP5zyMC_87Rg1qy5FoCF7pA3tpgYDZmhm4UhzSbfIXpJfnV8fM75RMa2MV-SOdTXMKSS5M0qLoUw81_55kASYjYfBwL_orNt0e3QJpu8wydsCy4k6wRHe/s1600-h/GKTW+squirrel.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224327260530972866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sjGO8V7Xc8RSBJ30wkXfjuasP5zyMC_87Rg1qy5FoCF7pA3tpgYDZmhm4UhzSbfIXpJfnV8fM75RMa2MV-SOdTXMKSS5M0qLoUw81_55kASYjYfBwL_orNt0e3QJpu8wydsCy4k6wRHe/s320/GKTW+squirrel.jpg" border="0" /></a> When we first checked in at GKTW, they mentioned that we should not feed any animals that we saw roaming the campus. I was worried we might meet up with an alligator or such, but we never saw anything like that. The most prevalent animals were lizards (sorry mom, granny and susie!). They were skittering everywhere! The day we were leaving, as Alex took me around to take pictures of the different villas, I saw this little guy sitting on a fence. He didn't seem too concerned about me, and sat still while I photographed him. My camera was zoomed in, but I was still surprised at how close he let me get.Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-62378869965813558562008-07-17T08:05:00.004-05:002008-07-17T08:24:14.123-05:00The Wish Lounge at Magic Kingdom<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0ScsVYEq4ehcyhG2PKrvYIVtaI6cWo1ea9uhUwL92A5vhJO7vBnJOMAkk7IrwUAijgxeBmhnM9Y5qLoQm5RpUnYAbZoALl2GexEcg4g2JIfltDnIeBOO1P1VOX8NkiddurADyU8yP_X_/s1600-h/06270112.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223970641473315554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0ScsVYEq4ehcyhG2PKrvYIVtaI6cWo1ea9uhUwL92A5vhJO7vBnJOMAkk7IrwUAijgxeBmhnM9Y5qLoQm5RpUnYAbZoALl2GexEcg4g2JIfltDnIeBOO1P1VOX8NkiddurADyU8yP_X_/s320/06270112.JPG" border="0" /></a> While we were at Magic Kingdom, we checked out the Wish Lounge. They added this lounge for wish kids and their families when they come to magic kingdom. The girls found a huge stuffed chair and watched part of a movie. The lounge was decorated with many Disney touches, and provided a great place to cool down and relax.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223970637607171506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6M_WXXcH6HXuC9kKb93Tv7FaXBjZrG_AuF71Z2OVH9AzU9spD629dRqKdPL1NfAM6-xsNvn7YEogwxI0WiqWRe-wHuYSiwz07x8r8S_xyRRU64C0dsCRKTg8SNJHphooyxwUXn-NfNF1M/s320/06270111.JPG" border="0" /><br />Alex and I almost fell asleep while we were in there. We really appreciate Disney for creating this special retreat. I can imagine that there are many wish children who need this space and it is great that Disney took up some of their valuable space to help these kids enjoy their trip even more. Thanks Disney!<br /><br />There was one more lounge we tried to visit, but we lost track of what day it was. Saturday we went over to Epcot to check out the Hewlett-Packard lounge at Mission Space. On our way, we remembered that it was Saturday, and realized that all the lounges were closed on the weekends. Alex sure was disappointed. He wanted to visit all the lounges, because once the trip was over, we would no longer have our special pass. I'm sure the HP lounge was awesome as well, and we appreciate the fact that we could have gone in during the week. Thank you Hewlett-Packard!Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-74157550457713590112008-07-16T07:06:00.003-05:002008-07-16T07:22:46.451-05:00The GM Lounge at Epcot<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlS1jSuFHi2B9-hyy1Z96fg1C0S9hb7gYONBZsGW5-7IMVxasUn-IO8CJDZisCte0U7cy2Sfell4V5HKeF2vPsUlp0XiM_IkOmbtnGOVaI3DZKPvvebm7DwdRvPiKuF7Q8wsP5-DoJQ7HT/s1600-h/track.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223585017280048066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlS1jSuFHi2B9-hyy1Z96fg1C0S9hb7gYONBZsGW5-7IMVxasUn-IO8CJDZisCte0U7cy2Sfell4V5HKeF2vPsUlp0XiM_IkOmbtnGOVaI3DZKPvvebm7DwdRvPiKuF7Q8wsP5-DoJQ7HT/s320/track.jpg" border="0" /></a> Once we found the Siemens lounge, we wanted to visit all the lounges! One of Ashleigh's absolutely favorite rides is the Test Track race car ride. General Motors sponsors a lounge here, so we found our instructions and made our way inside. It was raining when we went in, and the guys at the desk warned us that the ride was currently closed. We didn't mind, we were enjoying the experience. We got a soda and started looking around. There were some displays of neat cars and the Test Track ride, but I have to say that the view was the coolest part of this lounge. Looking at the picture above, you can see that on ground level you enter the ride. Most of the ride is on the inside of the building, but once you "crash" through the barrier wall, you end up on the race track going 65 mph. The race track is above the ride, right above the Test Track sign. Above the race track is the lounge. We could look down out of the window and see the race cars as they went by on the track (you didn't have to look, you could also hear them very well!). We sat here and really enjoyed a bird's eye view of Epcot.<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223585022127846354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Quwienr82spOTETSOPTi7EuH5hTFApJffA4wLjVjUApzMt6DgUjwxvbOwmBwNiIlk0t7jlQS2TpB95JlwM2ECcMRglxyaipq83-l7GvwpGntNXZrGVugatpJVKXDrGranKRJrxk_23u/s320/06250038.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>Ali kept a sharp eye on the line waiting for the ride to open, and when she could see people going in, she told us. We went back to the desk and asked one of the guys to check for us before we went down. He said that they had opened the ride, and showed us the back door right to the platform. Before we left, we asked for a picture, and he graciously agreed. Another wonderful lounge visit. Thanks General Motors!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223585022538968098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8Yqr1vW4mkBhDD0RBA1XKwu3ovzSZ3tGDxMevm9h9zVm_TSdHDdl9Ff3-Ag17xwdtRE1U4OTz1YvP0kl0EbYrCGBXwq3eix8rU7y4nBCw8glnc8UqHAZVrxqqIiw99VbaR6GVwygnh8R/s320/06250041.JPG" border="0" /></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-71677370915734355342008-07-15T10:01:00.005-05:002008-07-15T10:30:15.054-05:00The Siemens Lounge at Epcot<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVaXe_vFVcoXrhL_CZPXvBYDoxQTanqgsbOIOe0_5bWd3jOQJQXv3hkOTZzTw9jQpWhNXxA7XVC8c591PCiid08I0bJDXMoi-HgzbSEaGceIDdnGZJFUxI6XXfRqtO4pb7sr-JXm9EP3t/s1600-h/06250022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223260186789164434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVaXe_vFVcoXrhL_CZPXvBYDoxQTanqgsbOIOe0_5bWd3jOQJQXv3hkOTZzTw9jQpWhNXxA7XVC8c591PCiid08I0bJDXMoi-HgzbSEaGceIDdnGZJFUxI6XXfRqtO4pb7sr-JXm9EP3t/s320/06250022.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />We really enjoyed being able to take a break and cool off in the private lounges. We really appreciate Disney and the sponsoring companies who allowed us this special privilege. As best I can tell, these lounges are only for employees and retirees of the sponsoring company. We approached the Siemens lounge and the computer asked for our passcode. We looked on our tickets (where our instructions said it should be), but we couldn't find it. While we were standing there trying to figure it out, someone came through with their badge and were kind enough to let us in. We signed in and visited with the person at the desk. She was very helpful and kind. She found a couple of battery operated Siemens fans for the girls. We had a soda and looked around. This place is really neat. They had a cube with questions on all the sides, and when you placed the cube on the special console, the answer would show up on a screen. You could turn the cube and get the answer to a different question. The windows and doors were frosted glass and when they were opened, the glass would become clear. While we were sitting in the lounge, the woman working the desk came over with a laptop. The floor near us looked like a grid, and the laptop had a program that could change the color of the floor! The girls took turns picking colors. <div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223260191614724626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwk7-_Qo9qTQEuapE1f59dex5vzf5Blpa4MRQU6lGIo5DHXQeUd_hK2_EBFoEgBLN-c2yTPQFRUIMai0dmooM0Oi6gDnPfJzM_A9fn__SfyLVH8xhFVWdr-_Io_L1ZUL8jyfjqcHB57nE/s320/06250023.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>What a neat place! When we were ready to leave, she showed us a way to return to the Spaceship Earth ride, but we decided to go on out and head to test track. Thank you Siemens!</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-38449129304499595602008-07-14T07:45:00.006-05:002008-07-14T08:36:24.148-05:00What a Character!<div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAG1R1JwnRHMIxQ489kgUiwESnrEqMntDsOf5Z4hafEVX9u83xvaIr0LfMHIrwTbvog0fs18gBbqtuSEAnFzrovAF3h226zuLNplFoeGKWOJePDyJ9b_emN2yw3nBU4xNbUPIceTN1Qlb/s1600-h/The+kids+meet+Dora.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222856022908908162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAG1R1JwnRHMIxQ489kgUiwESnrEqMntDsOf5Z4hafEVX9u83xvaIr0LfMHIrwTbvog0fs18gBbqtuSEAnFzrovAF3h226zuLNplFoeGKWOJePDyJ9b_emN2yw3nBU4xNbUPIceTN1Qlb/s320/The+kids+meet+Dora.JPG" border="0" /></a> One of the biggest thrills for the kids is to meet the Characters. We all know that these characters are costumes, but there is something about meeting them that you seem to forget this. Maybe it's Disney "Magic" (although, not all GKTW characters were Disney, Universal also had some characters). Anyway, there will be lines all over the parks for a chance to meet the character, get an autograph and get a picture with them. GKTW invites several characters to come meet their kids privately on the campus several times a week. This allows these special kids a chance to meet the characters without the crowds, and without having to leave campus (if they are not feeling up to it). </div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222858116531038498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFuT8yY5o1plpJDZZVkGh0VqmTy8YLCQwfkcr55F5V0e2js9yCQQgE-ErlBcQt7LqpBcXBpeJ8gz1IxkpdkRNaxg_k5nOhBfz2X8MpY6cBgiF63OXA2gwSdekAMSLSiSqvuJ7J2J3xTkO/s320/06260010.JPG" border="0" />Disney has strict policies regarding how the characters must "act" and it is fascinating to see it up close. All the full costume characters (typically these are animated characters) are not allowed to speak. I imagine it is difficult for many people to do the voices, such as Donald Duck, but I'm not sure if this is the reason. So, all the costumed characters show all their responses through hand motions. They do a great job of this! It was amazing to watch how the characters could hug on Ashleigh, and greet her and dance around, then turn around and gently caress the knee of a child in a wheelchair, who you could see did not feel well, or touch their cheek to try to bring a smile to their faces. I truly appreciate these cast members for loving these kids enough to come and treat them so special. The characters who are not in a full costume (like Cinderella) are allowed to talk, but I believe they have to talk "in character" while they are dressed in character. We met Belle (from Beauty and the Beast) and she always spoke with a "Belle" voice. This has to get tiresome! They also have certain poses they do for the photos that helps them be in character. One thing we know, Disney does not miss any details!<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222858836853855058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFS1c2Q3tavoGRdOV-tv2MgNHoOD2P2NvSNbsgFoaKnuvpOoCjotS_xFA5J2DL91e42Pcy-nl2_sN2yc5ZCGCFLuU3-d71CqYmHNY8-332Hd8DpifdKfUmgf06L2OfEiM651t9cLCk4XO1/s320/06300003.JPG" border="0" />Our "magic button" as we started calling it (Ashleigh's GKTW button) was to be used to help us get on the rides quicker, and for parking passes. We quickly learned that each experience actually depended on the response of the cast members. The characters spots, where you can line up to meet the castmembers, were not one of the places guaranteed by our button to get us to the front of the line. We had heard stories of parents (who had waited in long lines) getting upset when Wish kids moved right to the front. Usually, we didn't try to get up front, but we also didn't have to go to a lot of these, since the characters came to GKTW. We went to Epcot, and Ashleigh wanted to get some signatures really bad in her autograph book, so we checked out the character spot. I went up to ask the cast member what characters were there, and she saw Ashleigh's button and took us right in. We moved through quickly, and were able to see 5 different characters at once! While we were in Magic Kingdom, Alex saw Chip and Dale as we were getting ready to leave. He walked up to the castmember and asked them about seeing the chipmunks, and they spoke with the parents at the front of the line. Those parents were kind enough to let Ashleigh go ahead. Those 2 chipmunks fussed all over her! They hugged her, twirled her around and just treated her so sweetly. </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222858117953077442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUJgBWCkNg9fc7LAta61gSYZrdzlBMhggnNAClxIvAH05YjIXvkj1UFYYU6jWaT7uAXQAtmptMoLoJMpwlhmr0qsfyhe8e63FUyB39Af0Q024mN980Q2wadlythixlfGZfV4g4hMOhyphenhyphenkq/s320/06270116.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>It is funny to watch these characters sign the autograph book. Because of the costume head, they have to hold the book up to one of the eyes to see, and usually end up resting it on the top of their nose while signing it.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222859677779708114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlRgsUcuPCq5e1zkhwxII6dSwwYlaMQLD-qC_SLOEFSf4tF-eOq8L65tI1orm2ATePKnIgVpyRw0kEd2zOdn9lkIyS5Egkz996UcnsF9e3Aulz1ZA_r8C6ePg67lEJT2GWXM7doNDAd_3/s320/06300001.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-8512462272108722742008-07-12T07:45:00.005-05:002008-07-12T08:25:40.477-05:00Enjoying the Gimmicks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMJyszYjHildYx6140nNKawALTJSQThWJ-YpFgCMd601GkG0BLYFzSoKfIDFVjFzbozHWYSN1xg1KKlKKzT540bVmqq69hfibHjW5Qpl-Bss2zS4gQ4MqL2UZSEyi250tolkvBLz8mbbV/s1600-h/07120007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222117351686976802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMJyszYjHildYx6140nNKawALTJSQThWJ-YpFgCMd601GkG0BLYFzSoKfIDFVjFzbozHWYSN1xg1KKlKKzT540bVmqq69hfibHjW5Qpl-Bss2zS4gQ4MqL2UZSEyi250tolkvBLz8mbbV/s320/07120007.JPG" border="0" /></a> There are many things that can get your money. One of the gimmicks we decided to participate in is the pin collecting. We received 2 lanyards and pins when we went to Disney World in 2004, but didn't do anything else. This time, we decided to get a pin for each park we visited. They have thousands of these little pins with all kinds of designs and characters. Sometimes the hard part was decided which one. We had a miscommunication with Ali, and one of the pins we bought for Ashleigh, she thought was hers. She didn't like the one she "picked". We told her to find a castmember and try to trade. Many castmembers through the parks have their own lanyards and pins. If you ask them, they may trade with you. The trick is making sure you don't trade an expensive pin for a cheaper one. Ali made a trade to get rid of the pin she didn't want, and then she was hooked. Everywhere we went, she was checking out the lanyards and analyzing the pins.<br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222117350142008450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 237px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 163px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="150" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdoCLw341yV5wCRyxcuXZMw8QgCX7JuEpg3KtaMrbTVfmxreRP5Y1Dt3CWPoX5cWVTv0GOS9E7q_g6sShYCwAgaMDGSo6N7y006BAQV7IsJcA4BXKI6ROVsOUDKplzQCuqjHTVW4dW_hI/s320/07120006.JPG" width="237" border="0" />One night in Magic Kingdom, we decided to get Ashleigh on the Pooh ride. We asked a castmember in the gift shop where we should go with our special badge, the exit or the fastpass lane. While we were talking to her, the girls were looking at the pins. Ali found a pin and made a trade. Ashleigh pointed out a Chip (from Chip and Dale) pin, but we had not yet setup Ashleigh's lanyard with pins, so she had nothing to trade. This sweet castmember let her have it anyway. When we exited the ride (many of the rides exit through the gift shop, another gimmick!), we found this castmember again. She (and Pooh) had gotten "ready for bed", and we got a picture and thanked her again for being so sweet. <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222114529966927458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9OIyP2JjRBunLCQODzfVV1AaUBVoy-LBKkaB76fljLZRLVJc8omipCsRCXGTOytFMobmolm3lRQasnJXcZfOx-75w45viv0dTcJwf9YfsBXhQe-cfK4-kGS0QgpNqwo9T_iGTeiagbvr/s320/06280063.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-40959391751364244242008-07-11T08:55:00.000-05:002008-07-11T09:06:46.209-05:00The Mayor's House<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadkuaUPIqseoikaCRk2zfo6Pt5-Ix7VleFB4ZOanFxeLOZefbr3u5coArH7Lr9T5TY6BuyM-S29txNve07KbtNxMBNPR_CdIvpC2Bw2pI-gbF8GjgTKtA-zIh07_q4yTQEc_TbZbxJiM-/s1600-h/06300025.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221757269601899730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadkuaUPIqseoikaCRk2zfo6Pt5-Ix7VleFB4ZOanFxeLOZefbr3u5coArH7Lr9T5TY6BuyM-S29txNve07KbtNxMBNPR_CdIvpC2Bw2pI-gbF8GjgTKtA-zIh07_q4yTQEc_TbZbxJiM-/s320/06300025.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />This is the Clayton's House. Mayor Clayton and Miss Merry are seen all over GKTW. This cute cottage is near our villa, and we stopped by to see it on our way to check-out and head to the airport. <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221757277629683666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu08ikFMwUaulFBOYRfx7qoa8WnKi6glCXiGdn0zvowGqlOmBxa3EsDkVoaf6UR1NLJlahUX2L7GCis3rXGf1uA3tMaREvPMMb95eC0jpIDqPZMLWknhoHWXsem60GepUuZr6MN36gBA56/s320/06300026.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The girls were trying to see if they could go in, but I think it is just for looks. It was a neat place for some pictures of the girls (see pics on the right). We didn't see anyone home, but I got the feeling that the Clayton's were too busy "hopping" around to be home much!</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-7117858186620237252008-07-10T06:42:00.000-05:002008-07-10T07:06:14.408-05:00The Ice Cream Palace<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDTf71VkPhYpQrnZlZjRS5XpKayUsAQGBFxi5k8U6NtCu1fmM5bZQEg_hsjl62hUCpNUQfxNWBGol7KMTqiecwjzN1GEKdWOVtmtv3eu9KxyuPwe2LlnzIksbr9mgptCvLPjCTTDU8Xj9/s1600-h/0350+Ice+Cream+Palace.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221351360909111874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDTf71VkPhYpQrnZlZjRS5XpKayUsAQGBFxi5k8U6NtCu1fmM5bZQEg_hsjl62hUCpNUQfxNWBGol7KMTqiecwjzN1GEKdWOVtmtv3eu9KxyuPwe2LlnzIksbr9mgptCvLPjCTTDU8Xj9/s320/0350+Ice+Cream+Palace.JPG" border="0" /></a> The ice cream palace has a special place in our hearts because it is the first place where we went when we arrived. The check-in line was long and one of the employees asked us if we had eaten lunch. When we said we had not, she suggested we go ahead and head over to the ice cream parlor where they also had sandwiches and hot dogs for lunch. She said when we finished lunch the registration line should be gone (and it was). We loved this cool place! We had hot dogs, sandwiches, pasta salad and drinks. Of course, we had to try out the ice cream for dessert. Just like all the places at GKTW, it is decorated so cute! <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221351365490992354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDW4QTou7oADlqImZUqR6hkKZm59YMfU6JQ1Hv68EFjC_KoTfIoc6O8eel8NJfPFcbEKDRkAcIII_QqCKoto04wDBHDD17V9U8xOvbg9SyYzqMYlaS13OaG6ICnQ86Fcuajyt8FxUj1xKf/s320/06240020.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The tables are made to look like ice cream cones, there is a cute mural on the wall, and they have a wall size mural of the GKTW version of Candy Land (sorry, I don't have a picture of it). During orientation, the hostess mentioned that they had the ice cream palace and it was open all day. She said that the Gingerbread House served great breakfasts, but that it was ok here to have ice cream for breakfast instead, so try it out! We got a great laugh, but I wonder if anyone took her up on that offer!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221351371596384802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpfFRkDIpnlBdNQgdf16rry3BYyNXWp-sxsYdGRvs3_Sh4plFNB3YoEXr6kIwEHWN_Y0-7XPGuCeIAiEXMf_lMNfZ1Q6NzlZvbQFOBWkLCNNGP_cu1cczyqAgpKTApz6tZ0ptSVrDKkVk/s320/06240021.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>We didn't visit the ice cream palace as often as we thought we would, even though it is open from 8am to 9pm each day. I'm kind of glad since Alex was filling up on frozen bananas at the parks. He and Ali did sneak away for one last banana split the night Ashleigh was not feeling well. It was a nice father daughter moment for those two.</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-2456640756424350862008-07-09T06:59:00.000-05:002008-07-09T07:44:55.479-05:00Our home away from home<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHsE6YJIQW1lPqorjcDKQJF_h8VQWtGnJvtABWm2Zl6rpj9kj1I3jSQjg9dAVWOMI1lu_apOrBBk9mFzrawqUBjaXuXfw1fIeweaVkFbclq3r_Tgr51XraFF8tbSq2U8mE5PnY7B3Ntfp/s1600-h/06300022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220987031249558034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHsE6YJIQW1lPqorjcDKQJF_h8VQWtGnJvtABWm2Zl6rpj9kj1I3jSQjg9dAVWOMI1lu_apOrBBk9mFzrawqUBjaXuXfw1fIeweaVkFbclq3r_Tgr51XraFF8tbSq2U8mE5PnY7B3Ntfp/s320/06300022.JPG" border="0" /></a> The GKTW villas are each unique. We really enjoyed our time in this cute cottage home and talked about retiring to a place like this. The villa is built like a duplex, two "homes" connected into one building. What is deceiving about our villa is that both the front windows you see in the above picture belong to the left side (we are the right side). When you walk into our living room, there is no front window to the left. However, there is a couch that folds out into a bed. The girls enjoyed movies on the pull out sofa complete with popcorn! The picture below is taken from the breakfast room, looking toward the front door.</div><div> </div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220988904117066146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSqZR_VVoruYVqfP9NyX-pdBImSWyetpKJQD8mb8pYY58aGBw45MzVSL1fb7RthJTzSZvBFmAcXcK2q17ZMK9_oeOxmlIHMMkiUcZR8gu4bIxOJ7ByAAXjxy2XJGa8yykJ702nKWsynhG/s320/06300019.JPG" border="0" /> We think that the villa is actually split almost on a diagonal, because our bedrooms are on the backside, and they run across the full length of the back of the villa. When we were first driven to our villa, they put our name on the bunny sign so that each day we were welcomed "home" (and to help us remember where we live!). You can see our wonderful front porch that was great for reading in the evenings (when the mosquitos weren't biting). All of the areas on campus were non-smoking except for the villa porches.<br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220988521572822162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH3mq9qTxvsKnRSq_LbEGF8XxRWxQHgL9ZP5Xbw4Fmf-jrRxGrMNaHKCALFgvpj5tyeJ1lsKpCBxc1CF4PH5dXtkLD6RfBdcCnuLE6Fe8f4YREvLbLNT0nHyT-hbzhLxq2G-sut1jYv_wR/s320/06300021.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>There is a main living room, kitchenette (fully stocked) and breakfast area. When we arrived, they had some drinks, milk and donuts in the refrigerator to "get us started". In this picture you can see our backdoor. This leads directly to the pool! Unfortunately, the girls only got to swim once. We were too busy!</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220988911670368962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUIhXVxmiY3LHlXgOuQBbNE5zSwWeW9S9Qy0ZPWz5w1LZtFToP7juYMsDExFkHQI1S_EgLGpjdxqyZbS6dOItR8gus7yB0X01nkMQjc9PRGJD6H5VuRTf03JR0xHd-QuxQE5AZhLLzcCr/s320/06300016.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>There are 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Remember, this place was built for the kids. The LARGE bedroom is decorated for the kids with 2 twin beds, and the HUGE bathroom is wheelchair accessible with a large shower, jacuzzi bathtub and double sinks. </div><div> </div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220991430422180786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzC4ZecBYfOIbF9JRJ4Fim8YxTzy36snE5iR6vZvTNlgc2kHJVgbv61U9NScu77Un2pxO8oaL2Mzk5X0PX8yl7t15PZqyuwsZ7D7Ajh9NYCVkJy6Veus6UcXct7qd8Gxsvd-GCrXN4ID-y/s320/06300009.JPG" border="0" />Mom and Dad's bedroom is a nice size complete with a king size bed (yea!), and we have a great tv cabinet with tv (and cable, yea HGTV!). Our bathroom however, was tiny! Single sink, and you have to get in and close the door to use the shower. We usually went to the girls bathroom and it wasn't a problem for the 4 of us to share that one bathroom (see below this wonderful room). What I loved most, and have always wanted in my own home, is a square master bath. I don't like the narrow feel of a rectangle shaped bathroom.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220991435909881394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a_DOTxyuwT5nm1W8zIOCJrWDOfDSHOG4aBwPOQfYxuh0u36DjGq5K5n_iDvYdKG2jYnUFrnL-okDBGzZ0juILzCMChZDHUrp6-MbBCKH__ZkO79zhXqbOgU5MAAoc8nsExbpZTolQ1XK/s320/06300010.JPG" border="0" />We also had a stackable washer and dryer stocked with detergent and dryer sheets. They do not provide maid service, so we washed our towels each day before heading to the parks so they would be nice and dry when we got home. That is all the work we had to do. When we check out, Disney will allow housekeeping to take all the linens to their facility and wash them (if I am remembering correctly).<br /><br />Each night when we would return to the campus, we had to come in through the entry gates. We would show our parking card, and they would always say "Welcome Home" as we were allowed through. They really make this a warm experience and they do all they can to help you "forget" that your child is sick while you are here.<br /><br />We took some pictures of other villas (see photos on the right). While they are each unique in design, there are 2 or 3 of each design throughout the campus. I believe right now there are about 95 villas, but they are in the process of clearing land to add more. About 6 months before we arrived, they were at 80% capacity. When we were checking in, we found out that they were at 110% capacity, and some families had to stay at a nearby hotel. We were very happy to be able to stay on the campus.Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-80339111435347867642008-07-08T07:32:00.000-05:002008-07-08T07:43:23.173-05:00Animal Volunteers<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42n6rihnmBj462_9wVjvHo8oMGMrgQdvpMRwfYhI45dKJYjTyHyr-wlLwviB1IM89xQSORiOBpaolU4STMyI0oZfnEQDkaZXmsHKuOYudKqgcxIj8t3_kGMCoo_8cKzMNmc8M-ec6jTV0/s1600-h/06250001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220621956789257858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42n6rihnmBj462_9wVjvHo8oMGMrgQdvpMRwfYhI45dKJYjTyHyr-wlLwviB1IM89xQSORiOBpaolU4STMyI0oZfnEQDkaZXmsHKuOYudKqgcxIj8t3_kGMCoo_8cKzMNmc8M-ec6jTV0/s320/06250001.JPG" border="0" /></a> There were many times where we met some unusual volunteers on the GKTW campus. This sweet volunteer was from New York and she had with her a special volunteer named Charlie. Charlie was a stuffed monkey, complete with his own name tag, who met the kids and made them smile. </div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220622655870052946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy916ISIhCaoixZYMiknoNmxf8oBkmrMuy19gjCi1VwQIVYHfcXe_OJftFlJINfdLf2k4Emezviiw6DUkujiNa6bLAAcuZsBmxhGB8h65klB1WLCe_C8lfs5fxk9ME46hcnTQiYIXszX5e/s320/06250051.JPG" border="0" />We also met many dogs who walked around with their owners and met the kids. All the dogs were very comfortable with the kids hovering around them and petting them. These dog owners usually lived in the area and would bring their dogs to the campus just for the kids. The kids loved seeing the dogs and it really brightened up their day.Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-77763186224705997392008-07-07T07:26:00.000-05:002008-07-07T07:50:34.052-05:00Edd and Penny<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6ASUlf0kf1ow8hgRDEzf9O_mf1N9NRgesCuso5v0wTsMAKe5KBMlu3pR1-fPLME2xPn16VMSCJfk8_QkVPDlcImd7W1eijCUC64lweolos_jSrCHBeFI2NWVhL7_GaJ1SiOgl9bT7NgY/s1600-h/Ashleigh+and+Edd.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220252834432101874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6ASUlf0kf1ow8hgRDEzf9O_mf1N9NRgesCuso5v0wTsMAKe5KBMlu3pR1-fPLME2xPn16VMSCJfk8_QkVPDlcImd7W1eijCUC64lweolos_jSrCHBeFI2NWVhL7_GaJ1SiOgl9bT7NgY/s320/Ashleigh+and+Edd.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />One thing we learned very quickly was how wonderful the volunteers at GKTW are! Edd was assigned to meet us, help us with the rental car and get us on our way to GKTW. We hit it off immediately! Edd's wife Penny was there also, meeting another family who arrived on our plane as well. Since we were lucky to be sitting near the front, we were off the plane quickly, and Edd was pleased. He started an unofficial "race" to get us through the process faster than his wife! <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220252836770930770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOOCCrIqTPc_iKlT-z-aTA9tfErpd9zngb-u-YyT0mFnA85-khzZkFwc0i9l6d7Z69I4Fbt90Ncii7UXd6thqqYBg6XbYgaAVYAZyAxWy518Ox4IU5f2qsK4J7yOPHycHGbZyTUsQIJGP/s320/06240008.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>They are both from the UK, and I really liked listening to their accents. We saw them again the next morning at breakfast, and they greeted us warmly. They were working the food line one evening for dinner, and we made sure we were in their line so we could see them again. We didn't see them again until our last dinner at GKTW, and gave them big hugs and sweet good-byes. We sure are going to miss these wonderful people. Monday morning as we are navigating the bag check line in the airport, someone said "A man wants to talk to you". We looked over, and Edd managed to find us and said good-bye one more time over the barrier. He was there picking up another family, but took the time to find us and wish us well.</div><br /><div>Volunteers are the only way GKTW can survive. I believe in our orientation they told us that there are about 130 employees, and 85,000 volunteers who help make things work. We saw several youth groups working on the campus as their mission trip. It is amazing how these volunteers are always smiling! We also heard time and time again from workers at the Disney parks how they also volunteer at GKTW or their children volunteer at GKTW. I think they get more out of helping than we do. We are hoping in the future to be able to return and volunteer our time.</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-12123193644412740462008-07-06T09:38:00.000-05:002008-07-06T10:06:07.312-05:00GKTW Carousel<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219913445821116290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbi1d16zxlLz_AkXLiPQkUUPo3cmN5WRONnB_mhE-KE9cwlzxgeZ3FQt7RwI1gISkRXsAUVOHTYnLropzruT0ZUVnKBm6J9mw6PU3rgG5XWHLHtAqojNji0niGViwkbVaYTFL27h_j8eyb/s320/06240075.JPG" border="0" />We really enjoyed the carousel at Give Kids the World. This beautiful ride was brought over from Holland. It sits under the mushroom next to the Castle of Miracles, and is handicapped accessible.<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219913981647986882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpLPQWOUZg3hAd061QAHHZsB-JCzaafjkJK1d2lwJk1nu_xRuifeRbWmG4eDV-1AjS9GPZh1z2gFzClQ4NxFGbbJjeRJnZzKLtI8S36brz_B4NVPJZ28k1NIy4MIPnVbP7DzrE2EdY_rB/s320/06240076.JPG" border="0" />The snail that I am riding is an example of this. The floor of the snail is level with the floor of the carousel, so a child in a wheelchair can wheel into it and buckle in for a great ride. The carousel is open all day, so many times after the girls finished breakfast, they would head over for a ride. Alex and I would enjoy a few minutes alone while he finished his coffee. One particular morning, Ali came running up to me asking for the camera. She wanted to get a picture of Mayor Clayton riding the carousel. It is such a simple ride, but the girls rode it almost every day and really enjoyed it!</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219913445578089154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpzEnusNE_IvW3W5uhWe39D1uqPXJRWvRT7hPXNptI5SlVBwAkRvtb5cvvt_ZcQx4rD020H6_e_vlWQ5rdXDjzMhVCOq7lCNTCxxtJwnL9-EfBFVDAHweMTAGRJ3yelPxx0fUBP6O9HPe/s320/06280002.JPG" border="0" /></p>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-48991294600316608902008-07-05T08:45:00.000-05:002008-07-05T09:08:57.655-05:00Ashleigh gets tucked-in<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9SDkWXPXKrjqSIjweE984gpPus-NG9I1a8k8SrXETaq1wlDKa3xhu_Bsni4L_IukNyV3qbMF8vKV7QbOx2E14vrLZ1lDIDAk3wdANwByV3RVctWrwccLq1xy42KQEmcQQsoqinBmqR7-/s1600-h/06250005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219529965741441666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9SDkWXPXKrjqSIjweE984gpPus-NG9I1a8k8SrXETaq1wlDKa3xhu_Bsni4L_IukNyV3qbMF8vKV7QbOx2E14vrLZ1lDIDAk3wdANwByV3RVctWrwccLq1xy42KQEmcQQsoqinBmqR7-/s320/06250005.JPG" border="0" /></a> One of the neat things they have setup at GKTW is to allow each child a chance to be tucked in by either Mayor Clayton or his wife, Merry. Ashleigh chose Miss Merry, and we signed her up for Friday night. It was so cute. Miss Merry arrived in her pajamas and greeted Ashleigh with a big hug and an autographed picture.<br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219528759997232322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdycxdD9dATqLOhTWSmoagZgxhWPo7XaCyn1bwf89ETjlaSxZH4qFwRupKnPGBplO44ev6wM4aFm_Lmv41qJBEaEjbxnv0t9A8TjC7RPITyWqN-pjgdI_tuYBA8IpqHmRD97A4Zztmiq_u/s320/06270147.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Then they headed back to Ashleigh's room. Miss Merry got on her bed and tried to get Ashleigh to bounce on her knees (jump on the bed). Ashleigh wouldn't do it! I guess we got that rule through to her too well! Then Miss Merry adjusted the covers and pulled them over Ashleigh's head. Then she laid down right next to Ashleigh like she was going to sleep here tonight. The GKTW worker who came with Miss Merry told Ashleigh she needed to tickle Miss Merry to get her out of the bed, but Ashleigh's arms were tucked in the covers too tight and she couldn't get them out to tickle her! Finally, she gave Ashleigh a kiss and we turned out the light. Ali missed all the excitement. When I signed Ashleigh up, they also ask how many kids will be there, and I believe that Miss Merry would also have tucked in Ali. However, this 12 year old turned teen was hiding out in the bathroom playing around in the jacuzzi tub. We just let her be and she was as happy as Ashleigh. </div></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-91836889565724360082008-07-04T07:59:00.001-05:002008-07-04T08:06:56.128-05:00Old Elmer at GKTW<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJSR2t1BzW6qFCW2bQD-qTipjyR0Qoi6SkokhW2dJLKoHDVwIVPU4egxT8cnGd20kbfWNs07JjUAhXyqUksgX2AL47tBdZ88iZxm62skd12MNw8QX_3-JWbDqBiq2jKcdcgDGOITzqyKO/s1600-h/06240068.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219143877321124802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJSR2t1BzW6qFCW2bQD-qTipjyR0Qoi6SkokhW2dJLKoHDVwIVPU4egxT8cnGd20kbfWNs07JjUAhXyqUksgX2AL47tBdZ88iZxm62skd12MNw8QX_3-JWbDqBiq2jKcdcgDGOITzqyKO/s320/06240068.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />This silly tree always facinated me. We passed it everytime we walked over to eat at the Gingerbread house. I would often just stop to listen to him. It is a fake tree and it spends 24 hours a day snoring! The snoring was calm and methodical, and I think it was in some strange way, soothing to me. I would often stop and listen for a minute before continuing on my way. Below is the plaque posted beside him.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219143877356718674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhskLVvdktb7LXOcEy6s-RWPmst_L7QGj1v24k5j5tW1RGbVxnzhs3qys4ZF3aPF-Ex86YdGQ9o5k7FThyphenhyphenEyF8lw38E5uYRg3vI-H9vNUMuyJxhFEBzdbEz7gpcK2ROagCXrzeb0ZJzdLD/s320/06260102.JPG" border="0" />Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-84291602141157362512008-07-03T06:55:00.001-05:002008-07-03T07:07:33.711-05:00What is this?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pH7Ud0XPtWjJva1J5wolpkcj9hmGeMM2rL1PW5ksZHpPnSzBE7H42ME62gqskmPKWpV1aQxKkqoP1AwJ1V_q9gXPP-iZwRiq48SpD-rT53fYYL9ho-pfKlCXKDjFpvyuRisSJJhc41tL/s1600-h/07030001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218756990161932178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pH7Ud0XPtWjJva1J5wolpkcj9hmGeMM2rL1PW5ksZHpPnSzBE7H42ME62gqskmPKWpV1aQxKkqoP1AwJ1V_q9gXPP-iZwRiq48SpD-rT53fYYL9ho-pfKlCXKDjFpvyuRisSJJhc41tL/s320/07030001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>On our first trip to Epcot, while getting some snacks, Alex purchased 2 of these for our girls. Ali wanted it because of all the flags of the countries. This was one of those few purchases where we bought something for the girls just to spoil them. Alex didn't ask the price, didn't ask what it was, he just knew the girls wanted one. After walking away from the sales booth, I asked my family what it was. I thought it was a lanyard for the collectible pins we saw all over the park. The problem was, the loop at the bottom of this thing is solid. There is no way to hook anything to it like a badge or keys. Now, some of you are rolling your eyes because you knew immediately what this was, but we really couldn't figure it out! TWO days later, while we were at animal kingdom waiting in line for the Lion King show, I saw a woman wearing one of these and finally realized what it is! My first clue should have been the booth where we bought it. They only served drinks and small snacks. This is a bottle holder. The small black loop goes around the neck of a bottle, the black circle adjusts so you can close the loop around the bottle neck. You wear it just like a lanyard and your hands are free from holding the bottle all day. Who knew this trip would be educational!</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-47154713518574965712008-07-02T07:15:00.000-05:002008-07-02T07:26:53.643-05:00Ashleigh's Star<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp6yTfUC4UYeqe53lg1hyphenhyphenhO_tUX8B6Oxji9wVtg9vnpgwvwAwva5OcL4DJOlens7JdIx3Yx-EtBLUMYUzRp5qCGzpjmZqDkQBv12MDoSgKfV3hdmzEkuChQmqx0igcLNPkpIlTOw0rYP9/s1600-h/IMG_0021.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218390955346100210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp6yTfUC4UYeqe53lg1hyphenhyphenhO_tUX8B6Oxji9wVtg9vnpgwvwAwva5OcL4DJOlens7JdIx3Yx-EtBLUMYUzRp5qCGzpjmZqDkQBv12MDoSgKfV3hdmzEkuChQmqx0igcLNPkpIlTOw0rYP9/s320/IMG_0021.JPG" border="0" /></a> Each wish child is given a special star. They write their name on it, and put it into a slot and close the lid. An animated star fairy comes on a screen and "takes" their star to put it with all the others that will stay in the Castle of Miracles. As you can see in the picture, Ashleigh had trouble fitting her name on the small star, so the "h" on top of her name is the one that is supposed to be at the end. When she runs out of room, she just starts a new line! This is a special memory for all the wish children who come to Give Kids the World. The entire ceiling is now covered with stars, and Ashleigh's star is located on banner number 1. They had to add some banners to hold the stars because the ceiling is now completed covered. She was also given a commorative star to keep at home. It gives me mixed feelings looking around at all the shining stars. I am saddened that so many children are afflicted with life-threatening diseases. I am tearful wondering how many of the "stars" are now angels. I am blessed knowing that Ashleigh's star shines bright with hope.Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-11400966993516005682008-07-01T07:35:00.000-05:002008-07-01T08:34:04.684-05:00The Gingerbread House<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg58QFGLFsnZjnPIz0vmpxF_SStDpIyYxCLqLaG7YXhGlsAhUpl0cndrT_9ZBOADR00qbKvC-LhdDjo2ZbwOIHXzV8FjfFz9zGk9lOFtk0nsxmjFymS7ikbZo6VLKV08KR-DE_Ph9gBW8/s1600-h/0580+Gingerbread+House+Restaurant.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218037645798413538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg58QFGLFsnZjnPIz0vmpxF_SStDpIyYxCLqLaG7YXhGlsAhUpl0cndrT_9ZBOADR00qbKvC-LhdDjo2ZbwOIHXzV8FjfFz9zGk9lOFtk0nsxmjFymS7ikbZo6VLKV08KR-DE_Ph9gBW8/s320/0580+Gingerbread+House+Restaurant.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div>This is where we ate breakfast and dinner each day. This dining hall is the perfect example of the fact that this place was built for kids. Like everything here, no detail was left out. ALL the tables and chairs are closer to the ground than normal. Not quite like a child's table and chair set, because the seats are normal size (they do have to fit grown-up bottoms!), but definitely shorter. Alex and I figured the chairs legs are about 12-18 inches long. The table tops are designed with 27,000 real peppermint candies. All the glasses are child-size so kids have no problem handling them. (Adults can ask for to-go cups that hold a little more). All food is served by volunteers and they have volunteers waiting to help you carry your tray. There is always a kid buffet in case you don't like the main dish of the day. The ceilings are lined with stuffed animals donated to GKTW, except in the back room which is lined with toy trucks! It took us several days to realize this room is designed like a cupcake. The doorway is made to look like a giant took a bite out of it. A piano that plays music all by itself (player piano?) entertains the kids while they eat. We watched one child sit at the piano and pretend to play. He did pretty good following his fingers with the keys as it played a tune. It was cute! Our only compaint was they did not have any iced tea. Juice and milk for breakfast and soda and milk for dinner. Thankfully, they do serve coffee. Oh yea, they ALWAYS have dessert!</div></div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-53154791678178221372008-06-30T20:20:00.000-05:002008-06-30T20:35:53.597-05:00Time to Go!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUJgVyfz7xfWdIasTl97ugVW2N_0YBpodxA4rFnX4ioNWnXCyBMzs78tFTBG4fumJ5yHLJNC7tXPBxUUn_7Jz2ezN-25tMKyK4e8bP6XTw7fx0_Y0B9cJsSQp3klHbY05wMx440-N5qW1/s1600-h/06300004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217852797843104306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUJgVyfz7xfWdIasTl97ugVW2N_0YBpodxA4rFnX4ioNWnXCyBMzs78tFTBG4fumJ5yHLJNC7tXPBxUUn_7Jz2ezN-25tMKyK4e8bP6XTw7fx0_Y0B9cJsSQp3klHbY05wMx440-N5qW1/s320/06300004.JPG" border="0" /></a> Well, it's time to go home. We are all tired and ready for our own beds, but really we don't want to leave this extra special place. We got up in time to meet some characters that came to GKTW for the kids. One of them was Donald, and we were told that it is rare to see him here, so we got lots of pictures. He liked Ashleigh's new tinkerbell shirt that said "Attitude!" After breakfast, we let the girls swim in the pool for a little while since we have not had time to swim all week. Alex and I took turns watching the girls and packing. We had 2 suitcases full of souvenirs and gifts! We had to consolidate our clothes and expand all our luggage to fit it all. We finally checked out and headed to the airport about 11:15 am. After going through all the security (yuck!), we had just enough time to buy some hamburgers and stuff them in our carry on bags! We ate them after we leveled off in the air. I felt for the guy next to me, i'll bet he didn't appreciate that, all he got was peanuts.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Our driver was waiting for us with a large black van with dark tinted windows. I felt like we were going into protective custody! It was a quiet ride home. Once we got home, Alex made us unpack and divide our clothes for washing. Then we divided all the goodies between the girls. Then off to pick up our Annie girl! (the dog). A nice dinner of mexican food, and we were in for the night by 7:30pm. </div><br /><div>I have so many pictures and stories that happened on our trip. I decided that each day until I am out of pictures (or I can't remember anything else), I will post a picture and little story about it. So, keep checking back for more!</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-56907548388086682112008-06-30T19:45:00.000-05:002008-06-30T20:15:23.094-05:00Our Last day!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgymhJ-QzpdKOUAjcvZ0nztPWAqGGKLy4IwczMXCkLFfo1aXX85JG7AfId1mNyoTenvpuLFWOGquGW_Eng-LuLjot4510Au6-G6a_5dCXEJxRJD5oZiR-q8DeDxI86yQH_Fk9oucABbFI/s1600-h/06290027.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217843780531169938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgymhJ-QzpdKOUAjcvZ0nztPWAqGGKLy4IwczMXCkLFfo1aXX85JG7AfId1mNyoTenvpuLFWOGquGW_Eng-LuLjot4510Au6-G6a_5dCXEJxRJD5oZiR-q8DeDxI86yQH_Fk9oucABbFI/s320/06290027.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I forgot again to mention that the girls found stuffed versions of Mayor Clayton waiting for them we we returned to the room Saturday night.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>We are not looking forward to leaving this wonderful experience, but we can't overstay our welcome. Unfortunately, our last full day has had it's bad moments. We slept in because of our late night at Magic Kingdom. We decided to take it easy today and just spend a few hours at Universal Studios since we were given a 2-day pass to the parks. We started in the Islands of Adventure park. The past few days have been sweltering, with no afternoon rain to cool things down in the afternoon. Today was no exception. We picked out the rides Ashleigh would like, and focused only on those. The ride host/hostesses were wonderful, and got Ashleigh on quickly and with a smile (thanks Universal!). We spent the most time in the Dr. Seuss area. It is amazing how detailed things are and the rides were perfect for Ashleigh. She kept pointing to the Incredicle Hulk ride, but I was able to talk her out of it. I just couldn't handle another looping, twisting roller coaster! We were ready to leave, but decided to venture over to Universal Studios. We rode a new ride, the Simpsons, and ventured over to the Men In Black Alien ride. Turns out that this ride has a lot of strobing, so Ashleigh had to sit this one out (strobing and flashing lights can trigger siezures in epileptics). We decided we were done with the heat, so we headed out. Ali and I took off for some funnel cake, and Alex and Ashleigh returned the stroller. When we went to meet up, we couldn't find Alex and Ashleigh. Turns out Ashleigh had a seizure and Alex took her to the car to cool down. I guess we let the heat and fatigue get too bad. Her stomach hurt most of the night (happens often when she has seizures) but she is feeling better today. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>We headed back to GKTW for the life size CandyLand game, but it was cancelled due to bad weather (they only have room outside to set it up). They still had the party, but moved it into the theatre. We met some assistance dogs in training (many volunteers bring their dogs to meet the kids her at GKTW), and the girls got an "autograph" from Charlotte the dog. They even let our girls walk the dogs a little bit. Then we went on to the party.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Ali and Alex played CandyLand with one of the volunteers, and Ashleigh did the limbo with Mayor Clayton, Miss Merry and the Gingerbread man. After a while, the noise and lights were bothering her, so we retired to the villa to let her rest. </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>In our room for the girls tonight was a candyland board game, GKTW version and 2 lightweight backpacks from Universal.</div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2087019588367319468.post-32222454113894260842008-06-29T21:12:00.000-05:002008-06-29T21:37:27.785-05:00Day 3 (Magic Kingdom)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFl-fzccmdc1FpN-zgJOwGrMzGv2wSMaH4JzbPlEEFH4092Ht5JK7CiB29XGGYcgg-xhlH-HwMU9AHpn1PfEq_B-urZZi9mjQQwAlSaVPUmH4RdzqQqhOxEXLMImSBmr2u6G54xM_nQdW-/s1600-h/06280020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217496629147326610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFl-fzccmdc1FpN-zgJOwGrMzGv2wSMaH4JzbPlEEFH4092Ht5JK7CiB29XGGYcgg-xhlH-HwMU9AHpn1PfEq_B-urZZi9mjQQwAlSaVPUmH4RdzqQqhOxEXLMImSBmr2u6G54xM_nQdW-/s320/06280020.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Saturday was Magic Kingdom day. Except for a quick trip to Epcot, we were in Magic Kingdom from 9:30am till 12:30am. It was amazing. We started off with a ride on the monorail, in the cabin with the pilot. In case you didn't know, you can ask to ride with the pilot anytime (no special passes required). If another family has already asked, you can wait for the next train, or wait till another time. It was really fun, and you have a great view! We started off in TomorrowLand, riding most of the rides, and then had some lunch. We decided to hop over to Epcot for one of Ashleigh's favorite rides, test track, and were disapointed to remember that the special lounges were closed on Saturday. We made it to 2 of the 3, not bad. While at Epcot, Ashleigh wanted some signatures for her autograph book, so we checked out the character spot and the cast member there got us through very quickly. We were able to see Micky, Minnie, Chip&Dale, Pluto and Goofy! She was very happy! We also rode the new ride Soarin' again. Ashleigh was so happy that we let her take her shoes off for the ride. If you have sandals or flip flops that can come off, they ask you to remove them. Ali had to take hers off, so Ashleigh "needed" to take hers off too. After a quick trip to the World Showcase for McDonald's fries (yes, McDonald's), we returned to Magic Kingdom to finish the night. We rode almost all the rides in FrontierLand and Liberty Square. Alex wanted to ride the River Boat and the ferry to Tom Sawyer's island, and these are the only ones we didn't make it to. He said we will have to make another trip so he can ride them! Then we headed for FantsyLand for some dinner. While we were eating, it finally rained and cooled things off. It stopped when we finished, and we rode all the rides in this land also. Amazing! The cast members are so great! We found Ariel's grotto, where you can meet Ariel, but they said she was getting ready for the parade. When they saw Ashleigh's button, they talked to Ariel and she said she had time for Ashleigh! She gave Ashleigh and Ali special attention, and it was really sweet! We rode the thunder mountain roller coaster again and finally got onto splash mountain, then it was fireworks time. We were told that a great spot that is not too crowded is near the Dumbo ride. It actually was not that great because we kept having to turn and look at the different sets fireworks because they shoot them into 2 different areas. However, we were able to see Tinkerbell when she flew around the castle, and that was Ashleigh's favorite. We never saw her in the park so Ashleigh could meet her, apparently she is hard to keep down!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We walked through Cinderella's castle on our way to the front and I almost lost my family! What a scary feeling to not know where everyone is in such a big place with so many people. We did hook up again, and all is well! We shopped for some pins (we are collecting a pin from each park), and settled down on the sidewalk for the 11pm parade. It was beautiful, especially from the great seats we had. When Ariel came by on her float, she did a double take at Ashleigh, recognized her and blew her a kiss! It was a magical night for Ashleigh - just as is should be. </div>Aworlowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834830543104770619noreply@blogger.com1