Scenes From The T

Christina's Tops for 2009

2009-12-31T20:56:00.000-06:00

As I have done for the past few years, without any more adieu, is the annual roundup of a few of my favorite things. I've included a few new categories to this year's listing. Enjoy! I'll see you in the New Year!

Best Movie: Wow, 2009 was a great year for movies. From J.J. Abram's "Star Trek" revamp which was a Trekkies dream to the Disney lovers faves like "Up" and "The Princess and The Frog," there are still quite a few movies I'm looking forward to in the last few days of the year. I'm very excited for the musical extravaganza "Nine" led by Daniel Day-Lewis and Kate Hudson and "Up In The Air" starring George Clooney and "Twilight"'s Anna Kendrick.

Worst Movie I Paid For: Couples Retreat. While I love Vince Vaughn, this movie just didn't have it. Besides the Guitar Hero scene, catch it on DVD. It's an ensemble cast you just can't love.

Best DVD Rental: Well, we pretty much got rid of rentals this year and switched to Netflix. I'm in love with the on-demand features that stream directly to our Mac. We've seen loads of great movies so it's hard to pick only one.

Best Song: I think for the second year in a row - it would have to be anything by Taylor Swift. Screw Kanye West. She's making the gold records.

Song I Couldn't Get Out of My Head: Miley Cyrus, you little hit maker. Between "Ice Cream Freeze," "Hoedown Throwdown" and "Party in the USA," she left sugary pop songs stuck in my psyche and in my car's CD player in '09.

Best New Restaurant I Tried: Flat Top Grill in Wauwatosa. Pick your own stir fry meal with noodles, rice (brown or white), then add veggies, meat and an array of sauces to customize your dish. It's fresh, fast and never full. It also has a great brunch on weekends that includes pancakes, French toast and eggs the way you like 'em. Beats Stir Crazy in Brookfield hands-down!

Best Moment: Getting hired on full-time at Children's Hospital. I am so lucky to work with the talented women that I do. I love my job.

New Year's Resolution: To not see a doctor for at least the first quarter of '10. I'm sick of being sick.

Cool "tilt shift" video from the Disney folks

2009-10-11T09:40:00.000-05:00

The folks at Walt Disney World put together this really cool video using tilt shift photography techniques. It's a day in the life of the Magic Kingdom. It uses a mixture of miniature models and real photos. Check it out!

This originally posted on the new Disney World blog at http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog.

What a great day for a run!

2009-10-11T09:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Brett and I took part in Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital. I was amazed at the turnout on such a cold day in Milwaukee!

Approximately 15,000 people came out to participate in the 8K run and 3- or 5-mile walks through downtown. Children's Champions, former and current hospital patients, cheered on runners across the course. I had chills and was choking back tears as some of the Champions braved the cold and held up signs thanking the participants.

Marquette University's Pep Band, Men's Basketball team and cheerleaders were all on-hand to greet runners. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee cheerleaders and Victor E. Panther met participants near the 4-mile mark.

I can't say enough how proud I am of the people who came out. We saw license plates from all across the country. Thank you for supporting the great work that Children's Hospital of Wisconsin does!

Check out my guest blog on DisneyFoodBlog.com

2009-09-23T21:41:00.000-05:00

AJ over at DisneyFoodBlog.com asked if I could write a quick review of Tokyo Dining. Check it out over at the site!

In case you haven't checked the site out before, it's a great resource for everything food at WDW. Because we all know that food is the biggest attraction there!

Haven't had much to say...

2009-09-17T12:20:00.003-05:00

So sorry I haven't posted lately. I was just clicking through and noticed I actually have comments from people who follow me. Thanks so much for reading! I never thought my life was actually that interesting, but what do I know?

Well, I'm going to be guest blogging over at DisneyFoodBlog.com next week. I'm stoked for that. I'll be writing about Tokyo Dining at Epcot's World Showcase.

I promise I'll try and be better at updating this for the rest of the year. There's quite a bit going on...my 10-year reunion in a few weeks, the diet plan and, of course, keeping you updated on Disney news.

Funny thing - Brett wants me to start a side job. Planning other people's Disney vacations. I feel strange about taking people's money for something that I just love to do. But I can offer a complete service from start to finish from planning day-to-day itineraries, offering restaurant hints, and offering tips for scrapbooking to creating video montages (thanks to the new iMac).

What do you think? Is he right?

Scary thoughts

2009-05-19T19:31:00.002-05:00

I've been undergoing tests the past few weeks. I wish I could say it was for something happy like I'm about to have a baby. But no. These aren't happy tests. They're actually kinda scary.

I almost collapsed at the gym two weeks ago. I thought I was having a really strong asthma attack. My arms were tingling. My head was fuzzy. My eyes were blurry. I couldn't even sit up. I felt like I had the weight of the world on my shoulders.

I went to the doctor a few days later. She started taking my oxygen levels. My blood pressure. My pulse. Something just wasn't right.

She came back saying that I have slight anemia. Nothing new. I've been taking iron pills to help my iron levels for about six months now. I've always had a blood clotting problem.

But, she was worried that this incident just wasn't another asthma attack. My inhaler hasn't been helping. I've been fatigued for the past few weeks. No energy. Sleeping most of my free time. I'm out of breath just walking a short distance. I can't carry groceries. I can't stand up from my bed without getting dizzy. It's been a complete 180 from the person who just finished a 5k run in March.

As I sat waiting in the doctor's office by myself, it was like sitting in some movie. "I'm worried it could be a blood clot..."

The words just trailed off...echoing in the back of my head.

I'm screaming inside, "What?!?"

"You need some more tests. I'd like you to get a stress test, get a chest x-ray and get some blood drawn," my doctor said.

The worry that goes through your head is unimaginable for a diagnosis such as a blood clot. "What could happen to me?" "I just got married..." "How did this happen?" "What about my family and friends?" "How can I stop it?"

Now, I have to go back for more tests. The scary, worrisome thoughts are coming back even stronger. I was up at 3 a.m. in a cold sweat, crying in fear that something will happen to me in my sleep. "What happens if I have a clot and it moves?"

I know nothing has been officially diagnosed. But this is such a terrifying experience for me. Why do I not have any energy? Why am I having so much difficulty just breathing? When can I go back to exercising?

I have to undergo a test on Friday called a ventilation/perfusion scan. I have to breathe in some low doses of radiation and also get injected with radiation. Then the radiologists will check to see if my blood vessels are moving blood and if my lungs are moving air. If they see the radiation pooling in areas, they can tell if I have a pulmonary embolism, or clot. Read more about the procedure.

I can't wait for the next few weeks to be over. I want the these scary thoughts to go away. I just want to be OK.

Help the kids at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin

2009-05-04T16:23:00.005-05:00

This year's Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital of Wisconsin is Saturday, Oct. 10, in Milwaukee. Take part in one of the largest combined run/walk events in the United States. Your donation goes directly to the patients at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. You can take part in a 3- or 5-mile walk, or 8k run along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Donate now or learn more at www.alsrun.com!

Forming team for Sarah's Stride 2009

2009-03-31T21:37:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,

This year's Sarah's Stride to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Milwaukee is taking place on Saturday, May 16, in Hart Park in Wauwatosa. If you're interested in joining the team, please contact me via e-mail or Facebook before April 15. Registration is $20 for individuals and an additional $75 for teams. Fees are due on May 4.

When you sign-up, you receive a long-sleeve wicking T-shirt, drawstring backpack and goodies, finisher medal and refreshments. Distances are a 5k (3.1 mile) run or 2-mile walk.

Learn more at www.rmhcmilwaukee.com or www.badgerlandstriders.org. Please consider helping this great cause! You don't have to be a professional runner! Trust me, I'm far from it!

Dining Review: Liberty Tree Tavern

2009-03-17T21:40:00.001-05:00

We had ressies at 8:40 for Liberty Tree Tavern. We were all suddenly really hungry after waiting in line for Splash Mountain for almost an hour.

Brett and I had done this one for our honeymoon but John really wanted to try it again. The restaurant was not nearly as full as it had been previously for the character meals.

The food hasn't changed much in a year. It's still the same traditional family-style meal. Starters include a garden salad with raspberry vinaigrette, hot rolls and butter. Then, turkey with gravy, stuffing, ham and a mustard sauce, roast beef, mashed potatoes and Stouffer's mac & cheese. Then, apple cobbler with vanilla ice cream for dessert.

It was a filling meal but no sparks were flying. We were stuffed by the end and needed to find a bench before heading off to Extra Magic Hours.

A huge family from Australia was next to us. At least 12-14 people. It was loud! We could obviously tell they hadn't had root bear before because they were all passing around one glass and saying how much is wasn't like sasparilla and how it tasted like medicine. If medicine tastes like that in Australia, I need to move there.

Our server did a great job of refilling items for us. He was almost too quick with getting drink refills.It's a good meal for picky eaters. But the drawback is the price. They haven't changed the price since getting rid of character dining. It just isn't worth the price minus the extras now. I'd go back in the future, but only if they reduced the price or brought back the characters.

Dining Review: Tokyo Dining

2009-03-17T20:12:00.002-05:00

We originally were supposed to eat at Narcoosee's on Saturday night after the 5k. But we were tired and didn't want to spend as much money with the current state of the economy. So we decided to insert an alternative table service in its place on our last day. Well, we managed to fit two table service meals in its place and probably came about even if we had gone with our original plan.

One of the restaurants we decided to try was Tokyo Dining for sushi. We've recently been on a huge sushi kick and enjoy finding new places that have exciting, experimental choices.

None of us had ever actually been to the Japan pavilion at World Showcase, so there were a lot of firsts. There are beautiful ponds and gardens in the pavilion. The large ceremonial temple still has scaffolding and a huge tarp around it due to renovations. The Cast Members in the entire area were the nicest I have encountered.

Tokyo Dining is located on the second floor above the Mitsokoshi shopping area. It shares the space with Teppan Edo. There were definitely more people trying the teppanyaki-style dining experience where the teppan chefs prepare your food in an entertaining way for you.The CMs at the entry all wore traditional kimonos. They bowed as they greeted you (your servers did as well).

A large picture window overlooks the lagoon (it must be great for Illuminations.) A center dining area has tables and gives a front row seat of the sushi chefs and a large plasma screen that plays calming images of flora and fauna.

Our waitress was so sweet! She bent over backwards for any needs. First, she brings a warm wash cloth and instructs you its to refresh your hands. The menu isn't extensive as some places but there are a few new sushi items that we haven't seen elsewhere.

We each end up trying something different. I tried the Bento box (a mix of tuna sashimi, seaweed salad, steamed rice, teriyaki beef and tempura veggies). It was fabulous. The fish had a great flavor. The seaweed salad was a nice surprise. It was very refreshing. The tempura batter was one of the lightest I have ever tried. It actually stuck to the veggies well and had a great crunch.

Brett had a Spicy Philadelphia Roll, yellowtail sashimi and salmon roll. John had tempura shrimp, squid sashimi, and yellowtail. Everything was amazing. The Spicy Philly roll was something we haven't seen anywhere else. I normally don't like cream cheese in my sushi, but the smoothness of the cream cheese provided a great cooling effect to the spicyness of the rest of the roll.

Tokyo Dining also provided us with a special anniversary dessert slice of chocolate ginger cake. It was really good! I love ginger so much and never thought it would be such a great compliment to chocolate. It wasn't too decadent. (Photo)

Overall, Tokyo Dining is now one of my favorite Disney dining destinations and one of the hidden gems at World Showcase. The entire experience was fabulous. The only downside was the price. It wasn't quite as competitive as other choices you could make at the world or in comparison with other sushi restaurants, but service and ambience more than make up for it. We will definitely be back!

Dining Review: Boma (breakfast)

2009-03-17T19:29:00.002-05:00

Brett and I had already enjoyed Boma's dinner buffet during out Disneymoon last year. We still can't stop raving about it. So, when we started planning this trip, we knew we wanted to go back and try breakfast. John was a little apprehensive about it, but I think he warmed up to it pretty nicely.

We had a 7:50 ressie on Friday, March 6. We were running a bit late anyways, but it didn't help that Security was amped up (I heard rumors Britney Spears was staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge during the same time so they limited incoming guests) and they were checking our driver's licenses and calling the restaurant to confirm our dining reservation even though we gave them a confirmation code.

The restaurant was barely full at that time of morning. We could see the pool from our table, steam still rising off the water's surface. I'm still amazed at how gorgeous the lodge's architecture really is from the thatched roof to the savannah. I was carefully examining all the kitchens and the space that Boma takes up is immense.We were taken to our table promptly.

The Cast Member gave DH and I a "Celebrate Today!" card for our 1st anniversary signed by all the CMs in their native languages. It was really touching.The layout of the buffet is similar to dinner.

On the far right hand side is the carving station (it had cured ham and corned beef for breakfast) and traditional African fare such as bobotie (it seemed like a spicy version of grits to me) and fried tomatoes.

There was an area that had waffles, sausage, bacon and already prepared eggs and omelettes. But there was also an made-to-order omelette station. I had the chef make a bacon, mushroom and cheddar omelet. It was huge, but well worth it! There was a large selection of dry cereals, breads and muffins. The banana bread was excellent. Brett and John both really enjoyed the sausage. They said it had a great smoky flavor.

Boma's signature juice - a mix of guava, mango and papaya was a great starter for the morning. I also love the paper straws they have at the lodge and at Animal Kingdom park. Finally, our server brought Brett and I special dessert to celebrate our anniversary. (Picture with our card.) Even if it was only 9 a.m., they were fantabulous!

Overall, I really enjoyed breakfast at Boma. There's enough of a selection for even the pickiest of diners. The restaurant was still barely full by the time we left, so I think it's a nice quiet option for adult travelers or those with older children. I would go back in a heartbeat for both meals!

Dining Review: Cape May Cafe

2009-03-17T19:11:00.001-05:00

We visited Cape May Cafe on our first night (Wednesday, March 4). We had a 7:30 ressie. John and I absolutely love Yacht & Beach Club for its ambience. It was Brett's first trip there, so I hope he liked it just as much. None of us had ever been to CMC.

Brett and I have lived in Boston, so we have all had a traditional New England clambake. While this isn't "traditional," the fare was average. There were ample amounts of selections on the buffet for both seafood and non-seafood eaters.

The Cast Members who greeted us were energetic and gave us the lay of the land. They showed us the designated areas for soups, salads, seafood, kid's choices and **of course** dessert!

The colorful inside is a beach theme with beachside umbrellas and awnings, sandcastles, and light wood finishings. The tables were covered in large white pieces of paper and crayons were stocked in little metal buckets. (I had a ball coloring a little Cinderella castle with fireworks and a dog! See picture.)

There was everything including mussels, clams, herb-baked salmon, corn-on-the-cob, fruit salad (it had a little too much mint for my taste), barbecued chicken and prime rib.

The items that stick out to me was the clam chowder. It's hard to get a good clam chowder, but I liked that there's had a hefty amount of meat (you could actually tell they were clams) and there was even the grit of the sand (I like that...I know others who don't.) I also really enjoyed the Oreo Bon-Bons. It was an Oreo sandwich cookie covered with a vanilla/chocolate mousse and then covered in milk chocolate. Really good! The cookies on the dessert bar were a tad dry. I like a chewy cookie. But, the Key Lime pie tarts were a tasty and spring-like alternative.

Overall, our service was a bit spotty. It took awhile to get beverages refilled. The food was good, but nothing to really write home about. I think you can get a better deal at other buffets such as Boma or Crystal Palace in regards to both food, ambience and service. If we were pressed for ADRs on a future trip, I would give it a try, but it's not on my "must-do" list.

Trip report - Pt. 2

2009-03-15T20:23:00.002-05:00

Sunday, March 8

Our last day. We slept in a bit until around 8-ish. Then, we parked over at Beach Club around 10 a.m. to walk over through the International Gateway at World Showcase.

Brett and I toured the shops around the UK pavilion while John found a quaint little bench in front of Rose & Crown before other areas opened. I played around with a trivia game in one of the UK shops before Brett and I went to see the O! Canada movie. I haven't seen the new Martin Short version or heard the new song sung by the Canadian Idol winner, but I liked the changes.

Afterwards, we leisurely walked around to Mexico for a ride on The Gran Fiesta Tour (I still miss Cheech Marin in El Rio del Tiempo!). I was getting hungry and something was smelling amazing at the couter service outside the pavilion. We were able to walk right on the Maelstrom before our ressies for lunch at Tokyo Dining.

I have never actually gone in the Japan pavilion but was really surprised at the shops and the food was amazing! We had a great experience and the sushi was really good. Before we left Epcot, we made one last trip on Spaceship Earth. Then, we took the Monorail over to MK for the rest of the day and night. John was well involved in starting his pin trading, so Brett and I were able to catch Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! on Main Street. We walked right on to POTC. Then, we had a 50-minute wait for Splash Mountain. While we were standing in line, a little boy in front of us stepped to the side of the line and started peeing in some bushes. Really gross!

We had ressies at Liberty Tree Tavern at 8:40 so we were able to catch Country Bear Jamboree during Spectromagic. I'm surprised they didn't change the price of the meal after getting rid of the characters. We also had a LARGE family from Australia next to us -- maybe 12-14 people. It was loud to say the least. They were very adamant about the root beer tasting like medicine.

There were Extra Magic Hours until 1 a.m. so we were able to do Haunted Mansion and a few other attractions with no problem. The crowds were just a bit overwhelming. It seemed like a lot of people were being turned away for not having Key To The World cards which caused the lines to be a lot longer. We also saw paramedics carting a guy off in Tomorrowland. Very eventful evening. By the end of the night we were wasted. But, it was a great ending to the trip.

Monday, March 8

Our last day. We had to get up early to get the rental car back and get a shuttle to the airport. I managed to get some last minute souvenirs at the airport (a really cute crystal and silver Mickey ring and some chocolate covered coconut Mickeys).

It is so sad when you're riding the tram to your terminal. It's like the last ride you get in Orlando. We had a connecting flight in Atlanta. We were supposed to get home at 2 p.m. but we were delayed by four hours and had three gate changes. We were beat when we finally made it in. Plus, I had to work the next day. Note to self: Take day off after Disney vacay.

Overall, I was very satisfied with our trip. It was a lot shorter than we normally would take but the focus for me was mainly on the run, which I'm very happy to have finished. The All Star Moviews served it's purpose as a room, but for more amenities, such as better transportation, I think I'll stick with the moderates in the future. I hope we can stay at one of the deluxe resorts on our next stay.

I really enjoyed Toy Story Mania. I can see why it's such a hugely popular ride. The Table Service meals that we did have were great. (I'll post those reviews shortly...) I can't rave enough about Tokyo Dining -- the service was impeccable and the food was top-notch. The only downfall was it was a bit expensive if you're not on the Disney Dining Plan. We can get similar food at home, not the same service, for a fraction of the cost.

All in all in was a great trip away from the cold Wisconsin winter.

Hope you all enjoyed the trip reports and I can't wait to go back!

Disney Trip Report

2009-03-13T19:21:00.002-05:00

Day 1 - Wednesday, March 4

We had an 11 a.m. flight on AirTran (our first time using this airline) to Orlando. We got in to town on schedule and picked up our rental car. I could barely sleep the night before. I was like the little “I’m too excited to sleep” kid. We drove to ASMo for check-in. Luckily, we made it right before a huge busload of ME riders. Art, the castmember who helped us, was awesome. He was totally talking up the new American Idol attraction at DHS.

We weren’t able to get a room in our first picks – Toy Story or Fantasia – but we were actually really happy with our location in the Mighty Ducks building. For the future, the Mighty Ducks buildings at ASMo are MUCH closer to ASMu’s main building and bus stop.

This was our first time at a value resort and we were very surprised. The rooms weren’t as small and dank as some reviewers have made them out to be. We were able to comfortably fit three adults in our room. The bathroom was a little hard to concentrate with the psychedelic wallpaper with filmstrips and spinning stars. The bedroom was decked out in a Mighty Ducks motif and the bedspreads had crazy and colorful images of everything from Buzz Lightyear to 101 Dalmatians.

We were all starved from the flight and didn’t have reservations for dinner until 7:50 p.m. at Café May Café. So, we got our refillable mugs (love the new designs!) and some quick bites at the food court. We didn’t use the food court that often but it had the necessities. The Mickey waffles were tasty in the morning. The garden salad was freshly made. Brett liked the breakfast sandwich and John liked the burger fix. I actually really enjoyed the kid meal’s quantities. It was more than enough for my appetite, a lot cheaper, and it came with an extra beverage. Otherwise, we stopped at the grocery store (Yay Gooding’s at the Crossroads) for some morning treats.

We relaxed for a bit in the room. There’s just something about turning on your Disney TV and being inundated by Stacy’s Top 7 must-dos at WDW. It’s hokey, but addicting. Really, I could just watch the Disney cartoon channel all day long. I can never get tired of it!

Finally, it was about that time to head over the Beach Club for dinner. We didn’t have to wait at all. It was our first time trying this buffet. It wasn’t a true New England-style clambake, but it was still yummy. All I need to say: Oreo BonBons. (I’ll have more in-depth about the food shortly).

After dinner, we were pooped from a long day. Plus, we have an early day at Animal Kingdom and the Studios on Thursday.

Day 2 – Thursday, March 5

It was up early to make park opening at Animal Kingdom. We wanted to make sure we saw all those great animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

We were on one of the first trucks out for the ride. We got some great shots of giraffes, cheetahs and crocodiles. That pesky lion – why does he have to sleep for 20 hours each day?

Afterwards, we walked through the Maharaja Jungle Trek. The gorillas are just so beautiful in there. We got some amazing shots. It’s like they were almost posing for us.

Then, it was on to Expedition Everest. That ride is still awesome. I prepared myself with the ginger pills for the motion sickness. I was surprised how many little ones were on the ride – like almost to the point that they seemed too small for it. But, that ride just takes my breath away. We requested a front row of the train. (I think it helps with the motion sickness thing.) My eyes and my mouth were so dry after, but it was well worth it. Plus, it was only a 20 minute wait in the standby line.

We hit lunch at Flame Tree Barbecue and then caught the Village Beatniks for a few. Then, Brett and I went to catch Finding Nemo: The Musical. What a great show! I could only imagine how much greater it would be on Broadway. The talent and the puppets were so whimsical and fun. Talk about bringing a movie to life!

After that, we were pooped, but we had to make it to Hollywood Studios tonight. John decided to go back to the hotel, but Brett and I kept going. It was our only chance to catch Fantasmic. We first went to Rock ‘N Roller Coaster so Brett could ride. I got some good pictures (and some free fries at one of the stands – Yay anniversary buttons!). Then, we booked it to the new Toy Story Mania! It was great! The themeing is some of Disney’s best. The ride was even better. I’m so glad we were able to ride twice. I averaged about 113,000 for both attempts.

Fantasmic was a bit of a letdown. The entire time it seemed off. Characters seemed to be missing their cues and showing up early. And then in the finale, Mickey didn’t get to square off against the dragon. It got stuck in the door, so Maleficent had to come back out and Mickey slayed her instead. It was really disappointing since we weren’t going to be able to see it again. But, no one else around us seemed to notice anything was wrong.

Well, Friday is off to Epcot and Magic Kingdom. Plus, we have to pick up race packets at Wide World of Sports.

Day 3 – Friday, March 6

Another early day in the parks. We had ressies at Animal Kingdom Lodge at Boma for breakfast. We loved our dinner there last year on our honeymoon, so we really wanted to try the breakfast. No characters, but lots of great culinary options. We were running a little late and it didn't help that we were being super-checked by security. Turns out Britney Spears and Kevin Federline were on vacay with their kids and staying at the lodge so they were limiting traffic to the resort. I guess that's why Brett saw a huge entourage the night before at MK...

Breakfast was awesome! Lots of African flavors, just like dinner. Plus, they had a special gift for us from all the cast members. They made a card for us signed in all the native African languages and gave us a special dessert. Sure it was only 8 a.m., but Zebra Domes are good at any time of day!

We drove over to Epcot and were able to tackle most of Future World. Of course, we went to Spaceship Earth first. I really do like the changes, especially with Judi Dench as narrator now. Even though, I felt I should see Daniel Craig popping out in one of the Roman scenes, but that’s probably just me.

I hung out and played some games in the post-ride area with John while Brett got Fastpasses for Soarin’. In the meantime, we went to Test Track. The standby line was only 20 minutes. The ladies behind us were hilarious. At one point right before you go on the outside track one of them said “I’m getting too old for this kinda stuff!” So funny. We tried to get some character pictures at the Character Spot near Innoventions but the line was ginormous. So, we went to the Land to hang out before our Fastpass time.

Soarin’ was a 60 minute wait for standby. We went on Livin’ with the Land. There was a cool fish display toward the end. It looked like they were using the water from the fish tank to hydrate the plants. We also saw how they create the Cinderella pumpkins that are shaped like Mickey ears.

We did some people watching outside Soarin’ for a half hour. It’s amazing how busy that pavilion is now with that ride. I remember about 10 years ago when it was empty. No one went near Food Rocks or the Sunshine Seasons Food Fair. What a 180.

We’ve done Soarin’ before in Cali. So, it was nothing new. We weren’t about to wait in line for an hour. We’re OK doing it every five years or so. I wish they would do Soarin’ over Florida or the world…make this one different.

We made our way over to Wide World of Sports to get our registration packets for the Royal Family 5k. I hadn’t been there before and didn’t realize how big Braves spring training was. Tickets were a bit steep (I could see a Brewers regular home game for the same price.) We got stopped and interrogated by a guard for how we met and got married (he saw the anniversary buttons). It was kinda cute. But, there were way too many people for me to want to stay and take a look at any of the vendors. Phew! The patience some of those people must have had. After, we went back to rest at the hotel for an hour.

Then, off to MK. We parked at Grand Floridian and took the Monorail over. When we got to the park, Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! had just started on Main Street, so we went into the shops. We grabbed a light dinner at Cosmic Ray’s. I was really happy with my Chicken Caesar Salad. We only did a few attractions. Mickey’s Philharmagic is so adorable. I had my first Dole Whip. And it was all I could ever hope for! We caught Wishes, although, it was obstructed by a tree. We got back to the resort, grabbed some hot cocoa, and got into bed. Up early for the 5k in the morning.

Day 4 – Saturday, March 7

Up at 5 a.m. for my first 5k! I’ve been training for months. We caught the bus to the Epcot parking lot for the start. So many people dressed as princesses! One guy even dressed as Prince Charming and another as Minnie Mouse! It was a great ambience for my first race. But, the problem was my legs were already gone from being in the parks the past two days.

I tried running at first but my shins were killing me. I wasn’t even to the first mile marker by the time the first runners finished. Brett stuck by me. I finally was getting warmed up as we hit the World Showcase. I started doing some spurts of running. I finally ran from around the fountain to the finish line.

My time was 54:18! Not quite my best but a start. I’m so happy I finished. I’ve never been a runner so this is a huge thing for me. I have my finisher’s medal at my desk now.

At the finish line there’s was sports drinks (thank goodness!) and bananas. We just loaded back into the bus instead of waiting for the kids races to start. I was famished so we grabbed breakfast at the food court. Thanks Mickey Waffles! We then got changed into our swimsuits and hung by the pool. It was soooo nice!

We went to Downtown Disney for the afternoon. Lunch at the Earl of Sandwich. Love that place!! Overwhelmed by shopping at World of Disney. I’m surprised there aren’t more meltdowns by kids there. That is sensory overload for adults even.

It was just so nice enjoying the warm weather. Any place was better than Wisconsin last week!

We had ressies at Narcoosee’s at Grand Floridian but didn’t feel up to it, so we canceled. We ended up trying to find somewhere to eat on I-drive. Not a good idea. Finally, we wound up back at Crossroads eating in the Taco Bell parking lot.

But, was my sleep awesome that night!

Only one day left in the parks…

Pet therapy program brings fluffy friends to hospital

2009-02-04T09:13:00.003-06:00

Maggie Mae and her trainer brings smiles to kids at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Check out this video from the JSOnline:

Christina's Top List of 2008

2008-12-30T22:43:00.003-06:00

I've been doing a "top 10" type list for awhile. So, here is this year's version:

Best Movie: "The Dark Knight" was probably the best movie of the year for all its qualities from acting, writing and stunts. But, my favorite movie of the year was by far "Twilight." I think you'll notice a theme this year with the vampires. Really, wizards are soooo 2006.

Worst Movie I Paid For: "Hairspray" and that was only a DVD rental. I could only make it 38 minutes into it. The songs were far from catchy and Zac Efron can only make girls swoon to a box office success so far.

Best DVD Rental: "Iron Man" was an awesome guilty pleasure movie. Robert Downey Jr. is a total bad ass super hero. Gwyneth Paltrow was even bearable.

Best Song: Taylor Swift was churning out the hits this year. She might have been dumped by that stupid Jonas Brother, but she had how many top 10 hits? Yea, "Our Song" was in my head most of the year and overplayed on the iPod. To the Jonas Brother who dumped her: you're a moron like Tony Romo.

Song I Couldn't Get Out of My Head: Tie: "I Want It All" by Ashley Tisdale on the "High School Musical 3" soundtrack and "Spotlight" by Mutemath on the "Twilight" soundtrack. Two completely different songs, but both get me pumped to do my runs.

Best New Restaurant I Tried: Mekong Cafe. The Vietnamese, Laotian, Thai restaurant on the Tosa/Milwaukee border makes great pho noodle soup and bubble tea.

Best Book I Read: Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga is amazing. Finishing almost 2,000 pages in like two weeks during the busy summer months is a record for me. I'm absolutely in love with Edward Cullen and have strange fantasies about fictional characters. Any book that can kick Harry Potter from the New York Times best seller list has to be good.

Best Moment: Getting married? Yea, getting married would undoubtedly have to be the best moment of the year. I can't believe it's been almost a year! Between the planning, the ceremony and the honeymoon, it has been a whirlwind adventure for us. I can't wait to see what 2009 has in store for the newlyweds!

New Year's Resolution: Finishing my first 5K run.

Spinning the tunes...

2008-12-25T18:23:00.020-06:00

Since I'm at the station for my Christmas night, I thought I'd share some of the highlights with you all.

11:22 p.m. - Can't believe I've resorted to looking at TMZ.com.

10:54 p.m. - I'm in some sort of reggae Christmas hell...Please send help...

10:21 p.m. - Reminiscing about Animaniacs and how amusing that show was in 7th grade. I wonder if that's on DVD...

9:33 p.m. - Does anyone else feel that Mannheim Steamroller is highly cliched? And really, what is a steamroller from Mannheim?

9:30 p.m. - We're finally rockin' around the Christmas tree with Brenda Lee.

9:19 p.m. - Dear Rob Pattinson, How could you cut your hair off? Was the thought of my fingers in your tousled locks too much to bear on this Christmas? Please grow it back in time for "New Moon." Love, your biggest fan.
(Photo thanks to Twilighters Anonymous)

9:07 p.m. - Does anyone know what Kenny G.'s last name is?

8:12 p.m. - Sick of my travel mug dripping every time I take a sip. I keep looking like I wet my pants.

7:29 p.m. - Really? Johnny Mathis singing "Jingle Bell Rock"?

7:23 p.m. - Trying to figure out what Andrea Bocelli is singing about in this song with Celine Dion.

7:10 p.m. - Just gave the forecast for tomorrow to a guy who sounded disappointed that it will be in the 40s.

6:46 p.m. - Starting to write the great American novel. Be careful, you might end up in it.

6:33 p.m. - Talked with Brett to tell him how great he is.

6:28 p.m. - Wondering what happened to actor Brian Bonsall who played Worf's son and was on "Family Ties."

6:24 p.m. - Michael Bolton is singing "White Christmas". I can't say it's "Steal Bars" or "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You," but it is definitely not Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby. On the tube, a "Star Trek: The Next Generation" marathon is leftover from the last producer's shift. Currently Lt. Worf is in sickbay with a paralyzing back injury. Captivating.

6:01 p.m. - ABC News is reporting that Eartha Kitt died today. Play "Santa Baby" in her memory.

My "Twilight" review

2008-11-25T20:52:00.002-06:00

It's been almost 10 years since I graduated high school. So, I'm slightly removed from what contemporary high schools are like but I have a feeling there will always be the girls striving to be perfect, the over-achieving academics, and the jocks out for all the attention.

Catherine Hardwicke's record-breaking new film "Twilight" starring Kristen Stewart ("Panic Room" and "Into the Wild") and Robert Pattinson ("Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire") lead the cast of the film based upon Stephenie Meyer's teen vampire love saga of the same name. Stewart and Pattinson, along with co-stars Taylor Lautner ("The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl"), Nikki Reed (Hardwicke's "Thirteen") and Kellan Lutz (tv's "90210"), portray the Teen Vogue-esque cast that embodies beauty, brawns, and flaws of adolescent angst.

Unlike other books-turned-films of recent past, most notably the "Harry Potter" series, "Twilight" is lucky to have a strong adapted screenplay penned by Melissa Rosenberg ("The O.C." and "Ally McBeal") that captures the true essence of its author's work. The 498-page epic novel translates nicely into a two-hour film escape that works for everyone from 'tweens to their "Twilight moms." Even guys can find something to like whether its the bad ass vampires or the hottie girl eye-candy.

Some of the high school scenes make "Twilight" uncomfortable to watch. But, in retrospect, most of high school was uncomfortable. You can empathize with the new student, Bella Swan (Stewart), as she tries to make friends at school, or not hit the cute boy in her gym class with a wickedly spiked volleyball. Hardwicke and her cast seemlessly portray the gossiping and joking natures that have made up high schools for years, and will surely continue to invade for years to come.

What makes "Twilight" successful is the chemistry between Stewart and Pattinson. Bella's love for the century old Edward Cullen comes alive on-screen. As an avid reader of the "Twilight" saga, my heart raced as Edward says "There's one thing I've always wanted to try," and leans in to kiss his true love.

While the forbidden love story between mortal and vampire is probably the biggest draw, there are elements of comic relief, surprise, and action. A vampire baseball game propelled with the help of British alt-rockers Muse and their song "Supermassive Black Hole" will get you geared up for opening day and cheering for the Forks, Wash., baseball team. The culminating sequence between Edward and James (Cam Gigandet) demonstrates the power that these unconventional vampires possess. Plus, the film will leave you wondering just what is up with werewolves?

There won't be any best actor or best film Oscars coming from this film, but don't be surprised if you see a best adapted screenplay nod coming when nominations are announced. Plus, you have three more films to wait for. Summit Entertainment has announced a green light on at least two of the last three "Twilight" saga novels. Stewart and Pattinson will be making $12 million each for "New Moon," an increase of $10 million.

That said, I'd go back to high school in a heartbeat if there were guys with impossibly perfect coiffed hair, hypnotically smooth voices and ivory-toned skin like Rob Pattinson.

"Twilight" trivia

Rob Pattinson contributes two songs to the film's soundtrack and he plays the piano on "Bella's Lullabye".
Author Stephenie Meyer makes a cameo in the film in a sequence in the diner (she orders a salad and is working on a laptop).
The opening weekend gross of $70.6 million is the most for any female director.
Kristen Stewart picked the prom dance song that Edward and Bella dance to "Flightless Bird, American Mouth" by Iron & Wine.

March Disney Trip Update

2008-10-26T07:38:00.005-05:00

We have been waiting for ages to make our dining reservations for our anniversary trip/Princess 5K trip to Disney World in March. Since they're revamping the reservation system (you'll eventually be able to make your reservations online starting in mid-December), it's put a hold on the normal 180-day mark to call. Today was the first day we could call for March vacations. And, it paid off! We got everything we wanted even if it took two phone calls.

Since we're not on the Disney Dining Plan this trip, we're only trying three table service meals out-of-pocket, and then a few counter services around the parks. We're also getting a rental car, so we can easily eat off-site if we want to.

But, here is the lowdown on our choices:

Wednesday, March 4 - Cafe May Cafe

Dinner will be at Cape May Cafe at Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resort. This all-you-care-to-eat New England Clam Bake features crab legs, mussels, clams, barbecue ribs and chicken, salad, soups, a kid's buffet, and a dessert selection. There are no characters at this meal. The airy, beach-theme should be nice and relaxing for our first night.

Friday, March 6 - Boma: Flavors of Africa
We tried Boma: Flavors of Africa for dinner during our honeymoon. We were originally going to go to 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, but decided two meals in one trip there was a bit much. So, we opted to go to Boma to try their African-themed breakfast. Plus, the great view of the savannah, will be awesome in the morning. I can't wait to try some of the crusted ham or pork loin and even if I'm not a coffee drinker, the Kenyan coffee sounds amazing!

Saturday, March 7 - Narcoosee's

Our 1st Anniversary is just two weeks before our trip. We're having a special dinner at Disney's Grand Floridian at Narcoosee's, a seafood restaurant that sits on the edge of the Seven Seas Lagoon and overlooks Cinderella's Castle and Tomorrowland. We're very excited about this one. They have an extensive wine list and feature fresh seafood. We will also be in touch with the resorts bakery to recreate our wedding cake for this special anniversary dinner.

Well, only about 130 days left until we leave. I'm busy training for the 1st Princess 5K. Brett and I bought new shoes last week (thanks Fleet Feet in Brookfield!) I'm down to a 17:10 mile. I need to shave off a little over 2:00 minutes before race time, but I'm confident that I will do it. We received the race course -- we'll be racing through Epcot on Saturday morning. Plus, there's a health and running fare. I'm very excited to be doing this race! My only goal is just to finish in 45 minutes or under so I can get the finisher medal. I would hate to have the little golf cart come and pick me up because I couldn't keep up with the pace.

We also have our tickets for the Pirate and Princess Party at the Magic Kingdom on Sunday night. The park closes to regular guests and stays open to transform into a wonderland of Pirates coves and Princess kingdoms. There's a special parade that stars Jack Sparrow and the princesses. I'm so psyched about this trip! I can't believe it's coming so fast!!!

Join Briggs & Al's Run and Walk for Children's Hospital

2008-08-05T14:12:00.002-05:00

Join this year's Briggs & Al's Run and Walk for Children's Hospital of Wisconsin on Saturday, Sept. 20 in Milwaukee.

Help the patients at the hospital by running and walking. If you can't run or walk, contribute to the cause by clicking here.

We hope you can join our team and fighting childhood illnesses!

Well, we're going again...

2008-07-31T20:14:00.006-05:00

I'm excited to say that we're going to Disney World again in March.

"What," you say. "Didn't you just get back?"

Well, yes, young grasshopper. We did just get back. And, we're planning on going again in March to run in the inaugural Princess 5K Run. It's only a "long" weekend trip for four days, but it's enough to get us by until our next "big" trip at Christmas 2010.

So, this time we'll be down at the World from Wednesday, March 4, until Sunday, March 8. We're staying at the All-Star Movies Resort, a Disney-themed "value" hotel that includes large icons of 101 Dalmations, Toy Story, Fantasia, The Mighty Ducks, and Herbie: The Love Bug.

Photo courtesy: www.wdwinfo.com

Photo courtesy: http://www.wdwinfo.com/

Unfortunately, we can't do the dining plan with the special deal we're getting on the room rates and ticket discounts, but we do have some initial plans in mind for our upcoming meals.

We're thinking the following table service meals on these days:

Wednesday night: 'Ohana (means "family" in Hawaiian) - a family-style restaurant at the Polynesian Resort. It specializes in meat skewers, tropical fruit, and other flavors of the island.

Photo courtesy: http://www.wdwinfo.com/

Thursday night: Tokyo Dining - This new sushi eatery at Epcot's World Showcase has an extensive sushi menu. The entire staff are women. The large picture windows overlook the World Showcase lagoon for specatular views of Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, the nightly fireworks and laser show.

Photo courtesy: http://www.wdwinfo.com/

Friday morning: 1900 Park Fare - The Supercalifragilistic Character Breakfast features Mary Poppins, Burt, giggly penguins, the Mad Hatter, Alice in Wonderland, and more friends at the Grand Floridian Resort. The buffet is extensive with everything from make-your-own omelettes to Mickey waffles and a sundae bar. There's also a turn-of-the-century calliope that hangs from the wall playing festive music to entertain guests.

Photo courtesy: http://www.about.com/

Saturday night: Narcoosee's - This upscale dining room at the Grand Floridian overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon (a manmade lake that the GF, Contemporary, Polynesian, Fort Wilderness, and Wilderness Lodge, all share the banks of). Specializing is rich seafood and meat entrees, the chef staff does everything from salmon fillets to filet mignons. The top-end wine list includes wines from around the world to complete a perfect anniversary meal.

CSI: No William Petersen

2008-07-17T19:13:00.002-05:00

So, I haven't had the change to blog a lot recently with the new job. But, I have some freetime tonight at work and thought I would publish my musings in the past few weeks to the world.

Well, the first topic to tackle is the news at the CSI: set that William L. Peterson (Gil Grissom) will only be on for half of next season. The veteran actor is supposedly going to be replaced by one of two actors: John Malkovich or Lawrence Fishburne.

While they're both very talented actors, I don't think they have quite the je nais se quois that Gil has. However, I am leaning toward Fishburne since in other CSI: star news Gary Dourdan, who plays Warrick Brown, will be written off the show. If you watched the season finale, you'll know why. And if you read a newspaper, you'd know that Dourdan is in trouble with the law for a little drug violation late last spring.

This is all on-top of Jorja Fox (Sara Sidle) leaving the show last year to pursue other acting jobs. Her character, as well as Lady Heather and the Miniature Killer, will be back for guest spots to send Gil Grissom off into the sunset.

So what does this all mean?

Well, no offense, I don't think Marg Helgenberger can carry the #1 rated TV drama by herself, let alone with D-list names like George Eads and Eric Szmanda (a Milwaukee-area native, by the way).

An actor like Fishburne or Malkovich will be needed to keep CSI: for an 11th season. Otherwise, it's buh-bye good CSI's and hello David Caruso's bad acting and counting how many times he can bend over a body and take his sunglasses off. Honestly, I don't think that man has done an autopsy in six seasons.

Dear Rain Clouds...

2008-06-12T22:11:00.003-05:00

Dear Rain Clouds,

I'm not sure if you're the same clouds that brought us over 100 inches of snow this past winter, but I'd like to introduce myself. I'm not happy. I'm wet. My umbrella has been overused. There's a tree down in my backyard.

It's very hard to enjoy spring, or in a few days, summer, when it rains every two seconds. I don't have the means to build an ark, nor do I really want to since I have no idea how to use a hammer with any accuracy.

I feel for the meterologists who are starting use colors like cyan and magenta in lieu of green and yellow. When the scale of colors gets to black I think it's safe to say that we've come to Armageddon. Would someone just please warn me when the swarms of locusts and wasps are on their way?

This is absolutely ridiculous. Who did Wisconsin piss off to deserve the last six months of absolutely ridiculous weather. Maybe I was lucky to have planned a winter wedding.

Please, let it stop!

Sincerely,

A very soaked Midwesterner

Harry Potter prequel

2008-06-12T21:26:00.002-05:00

JK Rowling has written a two-page prequel to Harry Potter.

Read it here

Click 'Read out author's stories' and then her name to access the story that is in no way to be confused with her writing a new book. The actual card was auctioned off.

Jeff Dunham Christmas Show!

2008-06-10T20:41:00.002-05:00

After a few days of constant persistence I was able to come away with two tickets for the Comedy Central taping of Jeff Dunham's Christmas Show at the Pabst Theater on Saturday night. If you care, it'll be airing on Nov. 16th.

So, I have to say, it was a brilliant show. I haven't had the chance to see a comedian live before, but this was amazing. It was an intimate show. He even had a Q&A afterwards (at 2 a.m. Sunday) with his puppets that'll air as an extra on the DVD version.

If you haven't seen Jeff Dunham before, he's best known for his puppets - Peanut, Walter, Achmed the Dead Terrorist, Bubba J, and Jose the Jalapeno on a Stick just to name a few of his ingenious creations.

Brett loves Dunham's comedy, so when I found out about the show on Friday night I had to get tickets no matter what (it didn't hurt that I had also gotten paid). So despite all the rain and crappy weather, I kept calling the ticket office every hour and logging on to tickets.com to see if extra seats were released. Alas, they finally were and we landed seats next to the producers. Besides, I owed Brett since not having time with starting a new job to get him a birthday present next month.

Well, I don't want to ruin the show since I know jokes that you don't. But, if you google "Jingle Bombs" you'll see a little bit of what I'm talking about. If you don't laugh your ass off, something is really wrong with. Enough for me to say...

"I keeeeeelll you!"

My new favorite Milwaukee restaurant

2008-05-19T20:42:00.002-05:00

I highly recommend Mekong Cafe on 60th/North Ave. on the Milwaukee-Tosa border for those of you who love Asian cuisine. It's run by a mother/daughter team of Laotian descent. All of the food that I've tried is excellent.

Click here to read the article in MKE.

X Files 2 has a title!

2008-05-04T08:46:00.002-05:00

Chris Carter announced in April that the very hush-hush "X-Files" sequel is titled "The X-Files: I Want To Believe."

Blogs are a-buzz with plot spoilers saying that Mulder and Scully are back and in search of a monster killing woman in the Virginia wilderness.

Amanda Peet, Billy Connolly, and Xzibit also co-star in this second film installment of the uber-popular Fox TV series that ended six years ago.

Bootleg trailers are online and rumors were flying that an official teaser would be in-front of this week's "Iron Man," but that proved false. Stay tuned for an official trailer.

The film opens in the U.S. on July 25.

The Ultimate Honeymoon Report

2008-04-26T21:08:00.003-05:00

The following is the report that I posted on Intercot, the discussion board I write on. So, to make some abbreviations more understandable for non-Disney folk, here's a quick guide before getting started:

DH = Dear Husband
CBR = Caribbean Beach Resort
DDR = Disney Dining Plan
DME = Disney Magical Express
ToT = Tower of Terror
MK = Magic Kingdom
RnR = Rock 'N Roller Coaster
EE = Expedition Everest
CM = Cast Member

Day 1 – Arrival Day

I was having one of those “I’m-too-excited-to-sleep” months (yes, not just a night, a month) waiting for our trip to the World. My last trip was in 2001 so needless to say I was due for a fix even after going to Disneyland in ’05.

Surprisingly, I was able to sleep the night before our flight. I guess my excitement just wore me out. But, our flight was at 7:30 that morning. There had been a lot of problems with our airline (Midwest) earlier in the week doing checks of their MD-80 planes. So, many flights to the Orlando area were canceled. There had also been some heavy fog that canceled flights leaving a lot of people scrambling to get out of Milwaukee early on a Saturday morning.

Thank goodness my Dad instilled a “get-to-the-airport-three-hours-early” rule in me because I have never seen so many people at Milwaukee’s airport before. It took us a half hour to check-in plus another 45 minutes with the TSA. We barely had enough time to get breakfast (there’s a Cinnabon at our airport so it’s a kind of treat when I fly) and say goodbye to my brother and Dad.

The flight made it off the ground on-time (without some passengers who had yet to make it through security). DH hates flying so he gets really tense and anxious. But finally the 2.5 hour flight was over and we made it to sunny Orlando.

I just love being greeted by an airport tram that has the smell of wet athletic sock and a dirty diaper, but at least I was somewhere 40 degrees warmer, right? Plus, we’re on our honeymoon. Even better!

This was our first time using Disney’s Magical Express. In retrospect, DH and I probably won’t fly on a Saturday again since it seems like the busiest time. But, we didn’t actually wait long at all to get on a motor coach to Caribbean Beach Resort. We got lucky and were put in the line that was the next to get out of the airport.

So, we made it to CBR around noon. There was quite a line of people out the door of the Custom House (the registration building at the resort). There were also a lot of people waiting to catch a DME back to the airport. My only gripe with registration is that they didn’t seem to have a lot of people working – only four with a line of people going out a door. It took us at least 45 minutes to an hour before we were all checked in. Our room wasn’t ready, but the Cast Member gave us a number to call at 3 p.m. to find our room number in Trinidad North.

So, we took the Internal Bus on over to Old Port Royale (the main hub with the food court, shopping, arcade, concierge) to get our refillable mugs and relax for a bit. I’ve never gotten a refillable mug before, but I’m so glad I did! It’s one of the best buys in the all of the world. I don’t think I drink more lemonade than I do when I’m in the World. It was great because DH is an early riser. He would head to OPR while I was still asleep or in the shower, get me some lemonade, and it was just a great start of each day.
Once our room was ready, we called Bell Services. They had all of our bags, even the ones from DME. So, we were able to freshen up before dinner that night. (But, still remember to pack a carry-on, folks!)

We had dinner ressies that night at Boma (feel free to read my post on that over in the Dining Section). I was very surprised. I went in not knowing a whole lot about African cuisine and came out loving many of the new and bold flavors.

I was also very impressed by the grandeur of Animal Kingdom Lodge. With its large picture window overlooking the savannah, artifacts from African tribes, and knowledgeable cast members, DH and I would definitely think about staying here on a future trip. We have some amazing pictures of the Watusis and the zebras in the savannah. Plus, there’s cozy seating around a fireplace where you can hear native storytelling. There’s even a certain aroma to the building that whisks you across an ocean to a different continent.

After dinner, we decided to head to the Boardwalk. We wanted to enjoy some dueling pianos at Jellyrolls, but apparently they were closed for a private party that evening. So, we just strolled along the area peeking into shops. We loved the Wyland gallery even though we can’t afford anything right now. I was a little disappointed with the arcade at ESPN Club. I remembered something bigger, but it was packed with screaming kids and even louder adults trying to restrain the kids.

So, after that we were beat and decided to call it an early evening at head back to the resort. Since it was still warm, we went for a swim in the quiet pool of Trinidad North. It felt so nice since it was heated. There were a few families enjoying a night swim, but most were still in the parks. That would be us tomorrow since it was a first full day in the theme parks and, of course, we’re headed to the Magic Kingdom!

Day 2 – Magic Kingdom

We didn’t feel we needed to be to the park at rope drop since Extra Magic Hours was going to keep us there until 3 a.m. So, we slept in until about 8 and had a semi-relaxing breakfast at OPR’s food court. There isn’t that much of a selection. The usual Mickey waffles, French toast, eggs, sandwiches, grab ‘n go, etc. The Mickey Waffles were surprisingly fluffier than I remembered and the strawberry sauce they came with added a nice sweetness.

This was our first time on the Disney Dining Plan so we were still getting the hang of things. We didn’t realize that you could get four juices for two people. It was a lot of OJ! I guess they expect people to get a coffee and a juice. But as we found out, the DDP gives you a LOT of food that sometimes is hard to get through it all. And trust me, I like to eat.

Finally, we boarded a bus for MK. As the music started playing, I couldn’t help but feel like a little kid again. Then, you see the top of Space Mountain. You can see a glimpse of the Main Street Railroad Station. You finally know your months (even years) of planning are done and you’re home. I couldn’t help but get a little teary-eyed walking under the train station, looking at all the attraction posters, smelling the popcorn and cotton candy from a nearby vendor. Hearing the laughter of a little girl getting a balloon, made me remember getting one of those rubber Mickey-shaped happy toys when I was her age.

But no time for nostalgia…rides!? Where are the rides?!? Then, my ADD kicks in. We have to do this, this and this. Get a Fastpass for this. DH is having problems keeping up. He always jokes how he needs one of those harnesses for me like some parents have for their kids because I’ll just run off on my own.

It’s tradition for me to ride the Tomorrowland Transit Authority first. Get the lay of the land. Plus, it was DH’s first ride. It was a bit chilly our first few days, so it got breezy overlooking Stitch’s Great Escape, Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin and other attractions. But, then you hear those screams coming from Space Mountain! What a thrill!

Since the park was open so late in the evening for resort guests, we were able to get a lot done during the day even with a mid-afternoon rain storm. We enjoyed a nice nap at the hotel before heading back to dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern (see Dining section for review).

I think the highlight of my day was having my first turkey leg. I’ve always seen people with them and laughed. But, I wanted to see what the whole hub-bub was about. Man, was it the juiciest, biggest turkey leg I’ve ever shared. There is no way that one person can finish that thing by themselves. I don’t know what kind of turkeys they use or what they inject them with, but they’re good. One is enough per vacation. But at least now I know there’s a picture of me with oil dripping down my arm gnawing on a large piece of poultry.

Spectromagic was as amazing as always. But, Wishes was a tear-jerking experience. The music and the beauty of seeing fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle, it’s just something everyone needs to see. I swear I saw some of the explosions look like Mouse Ears, or maybe that was the turkey leg brine talking, but it was pure magic. Having my hunny hold me and seeing him even wipe a little tear away was one of the best memories of our vacation!

We tried out best to make it to 3 a.m. How many people can say that they were in the Magic Kingdom past bar time, right? Well, we hit a wall somewhere around 1 a.m. and riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. So, we’d have to wait another day to finish the MK mountain range. It was just too chilly for Splash Mountain and Space Mountain you have to get me on a good non-motion sickness day (I also had an inner ear infection while I was on vacation. Not fun).

So, up next is fun at Epcot’s World Showcase and Fantasmic!

Day 3 – Epcot’s World Showcase and Fantasmic!
Since we had such a late night, we slept in. What a treat! Normally, I need to be up by 4 a.m. for work. DH is generally an early-riser, but even he took a few extra hours in stride. We decided we’d take Epcot slow, doing bits and pieces since it’s so spread out and it can be a bit overwhelming and overload the senses.

Brett was in the mood for sushi, but since no counter service sushi places in the Japan pavilion have an extensive menu and are covered by the DDP, we decided to try Lotus Blossom Café in the China pavilion. Honestly, as much as I love Epcot, I’ve never been to the China pavilion to eat. The menu is small, but I had the sesame chicken. Nothing spectacular, but it was filling with the large amount of white rice, plus a dessert of red bean ice cream. I really enjoyed the ice cream. DH had the ginger ice cream and it was really tasty with huge chunks of ginger. Very refreshing! Plus, they had boba tea (or bubble tea), a very cool and refreshing, almost slushy-like drink that has gelatin or tapioca beads in the bottom. You need to use a spoon or really large straw to drink it. It hasn’t really caught on everywhere, I’ve found, except cities with large Asian populations, so it’s a real treat when I can find it.

After lunch, we backtracked to Mexico to take a ride on the Gran Fiesta Tour. I have to say I miss El Rio del Tiempo. It was kitschy but it had Cheech Marin in it! The new take is even more colorful and at least it introduces new generations to the Three Caballeros. The shops in the pavilion are pretty much as I remember it – the woven ponchos, sombreros, random knick-knacks, glassware, and tequila. Still, there’s a bit of magic when you walk inside a fake Mayan pyramid to find it to be dusk in the middle of Orlando.

We then made our way to Norway to experience the Maelstrom. I don’t know why I always get tense before I go on that ride, but I do. It’s not at all scary, but I always think those tricky goblins are going to make the drop worse than it really is. The wait was about 20 or 30 minutes. But since I hadn’t been on it in nearly seven years, it was worth the wait. I just couldn’t seem to remember where the hidden Mickey was on the large mural in the loading area. For some reason DH thought it was on one of the ships, but I didn’t have time to see it. Oh, well. We bypassed the movie. I doubt it’s been changed in a few years, right? So, I did some browsing in the shops. I absolutely LOVE the Norwegian wool sweaters. I have a fake one but it’s just not the same. But, I can’t bring myself to spending close to $300 on something I’ll just wear during the winter.

Finally, it was nearing our dinner ressie. I made a semi-early ADR at Le Cellier in the Canada pavilion. So, we made our way over there to gander at the gardens and the shops. I think the second-level shop facades should really be open. Otherwise, I didn’t find much to do besides the O Canada! Film. We checked in a few minutes early and were seated fairly quickly. The restaurant was far from full. You can read the full review in the Dining section. I was very impressed. DH and I both agreed that Le Cellier will be on our must-do next trip to see if it’s just as good.

When dinner was over, we hopped on one of the boats outside the International Gateway to Hollywood Studios (I kept slipping the entire trip wanting to call it MGM). We decided to fit in Fantasmic! It was just about 7 p.m. when we got to the Studios and we saw a huge line outside Tower of Terror. We quickly found it was the line to the Fantasmic amphitheater. The theater filled up really fast when they opened the doors up 90 minutes before the 8:30 p.m. show. My butt fell asleep as we waited so long. We didn’t have much to do just being two of us, so we called our families while we waited. There was also a family in front of us with a very obnoxious teen son who kept yelling at his parents and siblings trying to save an entire row of seats for about 5 people. I thought the vein in DH’s head was going to explode if this boy shouted one more time.

But, it was all worth it once the lights went down. We’d seen Fantasmic at Disneyland, but it’s not the same. Everyone crowds around the Rivers of America sitting on the ground. I liked being able to be elevated. I felt I could see more of the show. There were a few minor differences, but otherwise it was just as spectacular. I always get a little verklempt when the steamboat rolls buy with all the characters and Steamboat Willie is steering.

It was a pretty fabulous and full day. We ended it by going to our room and watching old Disney cartoons on Channel 98. By the end of the week, we cycled through all the cartoons but it was fun nonetheless since I hadn’t seen most of those back when the Disney Channel played old cartoons on Mousterpiece Theater. (Bet you haven’t thought about that show in a long time!)

When we came back to the room, someone from the hotel had left an envelope on our bed. It was a certificate from the Disney Wedding people congratulating us on our honeymoon. It was really cute. So we put it next to the signed picture we got the day before from the CM in the CBR gift shop of Mickey and Minnie.

Day 4 – Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios

It was up early today to be at Animal Kingdom for park opening. Let me say: It was freakin’ cold! I was bundled up in a hoodie and long cargo pants. It took until at least 2 p.m. for the sun to burn off the chill. But, I’m glad we braved the Arctic!

Kilimanjaro Safaris was amazing! I’ve been on it once before when the park first open in 1998. We barely saw any animals. But, this day animals were EVERYWHERE! Our truck even got stopped by a bunch of rhinos in the road. They had to call ahead to get them cleared so we could safely pass. The only thing we didn’t get a good glimpse of was the lion. So, score one point for it being cold that day because the animals like the briskness!

Brett was like a little kid on the safari. He took SO many pictures (this is why I have over 800 photos to go through now for a scrapbook). He got some amazing candids of the lowland gorillas on the jungle trek. And there are some other great shots of the tigers.

After the safari, we jetted over to Asia to grab Fastpasses for Expedition Everest. We had about two hours to spare, so we grabbed lunch at the new Yak ‘N Yeti counter service. The portions were ginormous! They serve up Asian-style food in take-out containers. I had about a quart of rice, veggies, and ginger chicken. I barely made a dent in it. But, it was still yummy. I was really nervous about riding EE so I took my ginger pills (someone on Intercot recommended I take that instead of Dramamine and, surprise, it worked wonders!)

Finally, the wait to ride was over. The CM in the loading zone made us wait so we could have the front row. It was amazing! The view from the front is absolutely incredible. We could see resorts, parks, miles and miles. It was so gorgeous! But, then….

The speed and ferocity of the ride took me by surprise. I barely caught a glimpse of the Yeti except for a claw, or maybe it was a leg. I still don’t know. By the end of the ride, my mouth was all dry from pure shock. Now, I’m not a huge coaster fan and I have a huge fear of heights, but I’d definitely go on it again, but I’d have to ride close to the front. I definitely recommend asking a CM to sit in front. It’s just amazing what you see!

My ear infection didn’t do too well with all the jumbling about, so we passed on Dinosaur. It was too cold to go on Kali River Rapids. But, we decided to take in The Lion King Show. Brett’s seen the Lion King on Broadway and he loved the AK show. I really liked the tumble monkeys. They were really fun especially when they did some of the tricks on the high bar. DH and I were both pretty beat from EE, so we decided to head back for naptime.

We watched some more cartoon before heading back to DHS for dinner at 50’s Prime Time Café. Man, it was packed! I’ve never seen the place so loaded. The hostess said a stand-by wait time would be three hours (and that was around 7 p.m.) The food was OK, nothing spectacular. You can read the whole in-depth analysis in the Dining section. I was just a little peeved that our waitress kept thinking we were from Michigan. Oh, well.

After dinner we strolled through some of the shops before beating the Fantasmic crowd to the busses. We made it a pretty early night since we’d be back to the Studios in the morning.

Day 5 – Hollywood Studios and Epcot

It was another early morning for the newlyweds. DH finally needed his thrill ride fill. Me, not so much. So we got to Hollywood Studios for park opening. I could really see any of the little soiree with the family yelling, “Lights, camera, action!” and what not, but we ready to make a mad dash for Tower of Terror and Rock ‘N Roller Coaster.

The plan was: Brett would get in line for ToT while I get a Fastpass for him for RnR. Worked pretty well. He had a return time for about 10:40 a.m. so when he got done with ToT (I had a chance to browse the gift shop at the exit and grab a coffee), we did the Great Movie Ride.

DH is a huge movie buff. If my vice is Disney, his is movies, in general. He’ll just go to Best Buy to see what’s new on DVD. Anyways, the ride was a little of a disappointment to us both. I think we only counted in the last montage about six, maybe seven, movies from 2001 to the present that have been added. Alas, it’s still cool to feel like you’re on the runway with Rick and Ilsa from “Casablanca”. But, I felt old when I heard a kid behind me say, “Dad, ‘I’ll be back’, that’s from that ride we went on at Universal!”

Oh, kid…if you only knew where that line came from…

When we got out of GMR, the High School Musical 2 show was about to start. Yes, I’m an HSM2 fan! So, I was lined up with all the kiddies singing the songs. It was fun since a couple parents were singing along with me. I didn’t feel as dorky. LOL.

Finally, Brett’s time to ride RnR was up. So, I found a nice shady spot and waited. He loved it (as I figured). He swears I’ll be able to do it since it’s in the dark and the loops, “aren’t that bad.” Righhhhht.

By then, we were getting hungry, so we took the Friendship boats again over to World Showcase. We decided to do The Land first. So, we had lunch at the Sunshine Seasons Food Faire. This has always been one of my favorite CS stops. I must admit I like the changes. I had a very large portion of roast pork with mashed potatoes and carrots, plus this excellent fruit tart (they called it a fruit star). Plus, the CM at the bakery gave us free chocolate chip cookies! What a sweetie! They were quite yummy since dinner wasn’t until 8.

We made it through the Future World attractions except Soarin’. There weren’t any Fastpasses left and I wasn’t waiting three hours. I figured I’d been on it in Cali, so I was good to go. Plus, Mission: Space probably wasn’t good for my ear. We did get through the Seas with Nemo & Friends. I was a bit disappointed. It seemed more like they took scenes from the movie and just put them in the ride. I thought you’d actually learn more things during the portion on the “clam”-mobiles from Mr. Ray and the class than trying to find Nemo…again.

But, the aquarium was a lot of fun to look at. I could just stare at the fish for hours. I even overheard a guy say, “Why don’t they have fish like this at the Milwaukee County Zoo?” DH and I turned around, laughed, and he mysteriously disappeared before we could say something to him. If you’ve ever been to our zoo, you would have laughed, too.

As for the new Imagination, I like that there’s a lot of Figment and some of the changes are pretty cool. But, I guess I’ll always have a special place in my heart for Dreamfinder. We also made it a point to take today to look more closely at some of the Flower & Garden exhibits. I really enjoyed the hydrangeas in France. They looked identical to my wedding bouquet (which was silk). And, of course, we stopped to look at the train between Germany and Italy. I never noticed how much detail there really was – like the little green house.

But, my highlight for the day was the American Adventure. I’ve never been one for really getting into history all that much, but now that I’m older I find myself reminiscing about things a lot more. I was always kinda bored by the attraction, but I felt immersed in the storytelling. It may be a watered down version of our country’s history, but I was still very proud to watch it. And since I haven’t seen it post 9/11, it was hard not to get teary-eyed when you see the WTC towers up in smoke.

The other highlight of my day was dinner at Rose & Crown. (You can read the whole review in the Dining section) We had a waterside table just in time for Illuminations. It was one of our most romantic meals ever! Despite it being very chilly, I couldn’t have wished for a better night!

Day 6 – Free Day

We had early ressies for Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom. And with EMH, that meant 8 a.m. So, up bright and early again! There was a little problem with finding our ADR, but with the confirmation number it got sorted out. It looked like there were a few families having problems with the system saying they were booked for the next morning.

DH absolutely loved it! Eeyore took the cutest picture with him, draping his ear over him and his Red Sox hat. Then, there was the cutest little boy next to us, Warren, who was celebrating his birthday. He was soooo precious! Brett is still saying how he wished he could take a picture with him, but then is like, “Is it weird to want to take a picture with someone else’s kid?”

We didn’t have a set plan for the day, so we decided to do some attractions in MK again plus finish some attractions like Mickey’s Philharmagic. I absolutely loved the new 3-D show. It has all the best Disney songs plus it’s really funny. I was amazed at how they had transformed that space from the Lion King show that was there previously. We decided we’d save Splash Mountain and Space Mountain until the next day, so we went back to chill by the pool since it had finally warmed up!

After our relaxing time by the pool, we ended up eating a quick dinner in the resort food court. The double-bacon cheeseburger was pretty good before heading to Fantasia Gardens where we got attacked by a bird on the 9th green. I guess there’s a nest there and the mother bird is very protective. She hit DH in the arm and me in the back. Needless to say, I just threw my ball instead of hitting it on that hole. I think the golfing Gods will let me take a Mulligan on that, right?

By that point, I was over the bird attack, and we ended up going to Downtown Disney Marketplace. It seemed like it took forever since we had to stop at all the Epcot area hotels – Swan & Dolphin, Yacht & Beach Club, and Boardwalk. I don’t remember all of them sharing a bus before. I could only guess they’re trying to save on gas.

But, we strolled the shops but it was a sensory overload with all the different shops with colorful Mickey icons and screaming children. My feet, shins, and knees were aching by this point in the week. So, I was whining all the way to the West Side. I remember when there was a bus stop at West Side. To my surprise, it wasn’t there anymore, so we had to back track back to Pleasure Island. Loooong walk when you’re legs are throbbing in agony. Finally, after another lengthy bus ride we made it back to the hotel so I could sleep it off for our last full day!

Day 7 – Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios

Well, only one full day left in the World. We slept in a bit before heading to MK. Today was the day to conquer the last two mountain ranges – Splash Mountain and Space Mountain.

First up, Space Mountain. Not being a huge roller coaster nut, I’ve only been on it once before in 1998. I just remember a lot of screaming as I rode with my best friend from high school. I did better this time around, not so much screaming, but instead, I was just huddled next to the lap bar trying to maintain my center of gravity. It’s really funny how in the dark you seem like you’re going so much faster in that ride, when you’re going no where near as fast as a ride like EE. But, I was a big girl. I made it through one ride. Off to my least favorite mountain next…

Splash Mountain and I have always had a love/hate relationship. I like the furry, lovey dovey animatronic story that relates to the Briar Patch, but then all of a sudden the singing birds and bunnies are gone and you head up that long lift hill to be tormented by a bunch of vultures before that tumultuous drop.

Again, the wedding buttons came in handy (or so DH thinks). The CM puts us in the front of the log. Needless to say, I was glad it had finally warmed up during the week, because we were soaked from the waist down.

Well, we accomplished everything in MK. It was time for one last spin on the train and some a leisurely stroll along Main Street. It’s always so sad when you have to leave MK for the last time. We got some spectacular photos of the castle that day since it was so sunny with clear blue skies. We even managed to get a cute photo in front of the garden by the train station. One of the few “couple” photos of the week. But, now it’s off to the Studios to experience Lights, Motors, Action!

It was nearing the lunch-hour peak and we were getting hungry. So, we made a “quick” stop at Toy Story Pizza Planet. The line was ginormous. But, we ended up finding a semi-quiet table outside and quickly devoured our pizzas. Surprisingly OK. I probably liked the crusts the best. Now, just need to jet off to LMA!

I thought such a popular new attraction would have more showings than two or three per day, but LMA! didn’t. Even so, the large crowd and being seated in the upper five rows of the theater still surprised us. DH was excited to see some burning rubber. I liked seeing Herbie the most, and honestly, some of the stunts were kinda cool, even for someone who doesn’t live for action movies. I thought the whole premise that they were shooting a movie was unnecessary, but whatever works for the plot. I was most impressed to see that they had several different “hero” cars, and that some were driven from the back seat, while others were remote control. Very interesting if you want to know some ins and outs of Hollywood.

When we were done with the stunt show, we decided to take in the Backstage Tour. I must admit that I was very disappointed. I felt that in the amount of space that they take you in the trams, you could have walked the distance faster. Besides Catastrophe Canyon, you don’t really see much besides the “boneyard” of old props. While I did enjoy seeing the bone cages from “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” and the ship from “Flight of the Navigator,” I don’t think I’d do this again for a long time. I just miss seeing the old facades of houses that you used to drive by (eg. The Golden Girls house).

Finally, our time in the parks was up. Back to the hotel to freshen up before dinner. Tonight was our splurge. Off to Artist Point at Wilderness Lodge. The ride to dinner was fairly seamless except for a little wait at Epcot for a bus. But, we got to the lodge a bit early so we were able to look at the babbling brook that starts in the lobby and then makes its way out the building to form the pool area.

We checked in at the desk and we only waited about five minutes for our table. We didn’t have a seat overlooking the erupting geyser, but we did overlook a cute little courtyard. Our waiter, Jim (I hope that’s his name), was absolutely amazing! He was helpful, courteous, and really helped to make our last night magical. His wine selections for our wine flight were spot on and he even knew how to recommend the perfect cooking temperature for DH’s buffalo steak. I go a lot more in-depth in the food aspect in the Dining Section, so be sure to check that out!

I was just so amazed at our experience. I’m glad we waited until the last night for this one. It was a special and romantic time that really took the whole Disneymoon to the next level for us. From the personalized menus to the complimentary champagne toast, CM’s at Artist Point (and across the World) go above and beyond to make your time a magical one.

We lingered at the hotel a bit looking in the shops. Our bus ride back to the hotel was an adventure, but we didn’t mind it taking so long since it was our last night and we didn’t have any pressing engagements. All in all, it was one fabulous last day and evening!

Day 8 – Departure Day

This is always the saddest part of a Disney journey. The day you have to check out. Especially after such a great last day and night, we really didn’t want to have to finish packing up and say goodbye to our home away from home. In an effort to prolong our stay, I managed to book a 7 p.m. flight back to Milwaukee. That meant we didn’t have to be at CBR to pick up the DME until 4 p.m.

So, we were all packed and ready to go by 10 a.m. Bell services picked our bags up and stored them until we needed them that afternoon. And off we went for our last shopping binge at the Marketplace.

We picked up some really cute kitchen towels and a Mickey chip and dip platter for our new place. DH also picked out a set of ornaments at the holiday store that has one for each park. We also both bought a Mickey polo shirt. I was hoping to get one of the Vera Bradley-esque paisley print bags, but they didn’t have the pink pattern in the size I wanted and the blue was too much like the purse I have at home. (DH already thinks I have a bag issue.) We also picked up the final souvenirs for our family members. We got our nephew one of those cute and cuddly “My First Disney Bears” that was dressed like a pirate. So adorable!

My hunger pangs were kicking in and we had been dying to try the Earl of Sandwich. The crowds had been huge there all week, but we braved it anyways. We both really enjoyed the food here! If there was one of these in Milwaukee, we’d be in trouble. The bread had this crunchy, toasty outside but was soft and warm on the inside. It was like magic in my mouth with the bleu cheese and the roast beef combining. But DH one this battle of ordering with a spinach and creamed mushroom chicken sandwich topped with parmesan. It was this ooey-gooey goodness. Plus, the cookies that we could get with the DDP were soft and huge!

Well, we didn’t have any more shops to hit, so we decided to head back to the hotel and chill at Old Port Royale. Got a few more dollars worth out of those refillable mugs. Strolled the little shops. People watched as other guests were checking in for a week of magic just like we had done seven days before.

Finally, the time rolled around. DME was ready to get us. There was a little snafu and somehow the bus was overbooked. DH and I didn’t have a seat. Hey! No problem. I didn’t want to go home anyways. Oh, right…need money to pay for my next trip, so guess we do have to go home. The driver asked a family in the front to put their daughters in their laps, and then we were off.

A few hours later we were back in Milwaukee. Tired, exhausted, beat. But, not wanting to be home. Our honeymoon was absolutely mousetacular (Is that a word? If not, I’m coining it!) I couldn’t have asked for a better time. Even with some chilly weather to start the week and some transportation mishaps every now and then, the hiccups couldn’t outweigh the quality time I got to spend with my hunny.

I hope you all enjoyed reading our trip report because I really enjoyed writing them!!

Artist Point Review

2008-04-24T21:42:00.003-05:00

Day 7 - Artist Point

Well, if you've made it on this culinary journey, we've tried everything from African and Canadian to family fare and more. Now, it's the sad point in this trip...our last review.

We wanted a special night to remember for our last full day at the World. We decided to go for Artist Point at WL with its northwest feel.

Everything about WL is huge. The building itself is designed to resemble both Yellowstone's Old Faithful Inn, and also a bear. Our waiter, I believe his name was Jim from Orlando (I'm awful with names), was super-friendly and helpful. Whenever we asked about an ingredient or something about the meal, he knew the answer or would go check. Even the dining room manager came to check on us several times.

I guess I knew this would be a special evening when I looked at the menus. On the bottom was printed "Artist Point would like to Congratute the BrewCrew26 Party on your recent marriage!" Well, it didn't say "brewcrew26" but it actually had our last name on there. But, it makes for a great keepsake!

Jim brought us a complimentary champagne toast to start the evening. While the dining room manager brought us a complimentary appetizer of the potato chive pot sticker with edamame, spinach and soy vinaigrette. It was so tasty! The pot sticker was oozing with potatoey goodness while the soy vinaigrette added a nice punch.

This was the one night we would splurge. So, DH started off with the smokey portobello soup with roasted shiitakes and chive oil. All I can say is, "Wow." This soup was so incredibly good. The smoothness of the soup's texture and then the flavor that the shiitakes added. There were actually several different types of mushrooms and some of the chunks of 'shrooms were quite hefty.

I started off with the Duck Confit with the pear anjou frisee salad with a cherry vinaigrette and duck prosciutto. I was surprised by the taste of the prosciutto. It tasted so much like traditional Italian prosciutto and nothing like the richness of the duck. You basically get 1/4 of a duck that is crispy, juicy and fork tender. It was enough to be a meal on its own.

For entrees, DH had the buffalo steak with sweet potato gratin and sweet onion jam. The sweet potato gratin was crunchy and filled with hazelnuts. It was a great accompaniment to the buffalo steak that was done medium rare. Jim suggested nothing over a medium for the buffalo since it cooks different than beef. It was so tender and not-at-all gamey.

I enjoyed the beef tenderloin with potato truffle fries and wild mushrooms. The mushrooms were very earthy and flavorful compared to a traditional button mushroom au jus. The truffle fries were a decadent surprise that nearly melted in your mouth. And the beef was done to perfection and topped with a wild mushroom butter that added even more to the grilled flavor.

For dessert, we shared the Artist Point Cobber made with seasonal berries and homemade black raspberry ice cream. The cobbler was ideal with a crunch almost like a tart shell. The ice cream would be a dessert itself but paired nicely with the fresh berry assortment of blackberries, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.

We also indulged in the wine flight. My favorite was the Three Rivers Late Harvest Gewurztraminer from Walla Walla Valley. It was a sweet, almost ice wine that tasted nothing like a wine. It was almost like a very sweet fruit juice.

I would go back to Artist Point in a heart beat. The service and the food were nothing short of amazing. It can be hard to find this kind of restaurant in some large cities. My hat's off to the chef staff.

Well, I hope you enjoyed our TS round-up! Thanks for reading even if it was a little long-winded!

Crystal Palace Character Breakfast Review

2008-04-24T21:42:00.001-05:00

Day 6 - Crystal Palace Character Breakfast

Our day started off with a little confusion. Crystal Palace lost our ressie. But since we had a confirmation number they were able to accomodate us. From observation, it looked like several other families were having problems with their ressies that day. One woman was on the phone with WDW-DINE while talking to a host trying to figure out what happened to their ressie.

Even with the confusion, we were seated just after 8 a.m. right near the windows. There was another newlywed couple right next to us. The CMs put Mickey pixie dust in the shape of hearts on both tables. The other couple (who had a different waiter) also got a signed picture from Winnie the Pooh and friends. DH was a little bummed that our waiter didn't have one for us.

The Crystal Palace buffet is mostly the same favorites - pancakes, waffles, bacon, egg, fruit, cereal, breads and muffins. I really enjoyed the corn beef hash fritatta. It was light and fluffy. There was a touch of onion, too. My other favorite (I went back three times for it) was Pooh's Puffed French Toast. The best way to describe it is like a beignet but instead of powdered sugar it has granulated sugar. It was so light and fluffy and mmmmm (I'm almost drooling on my keyboard)

The waiter told us it could take up to an hour to get through Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore and Piglet. But they were going through tables pretty fast. If you happen to be in the buffet line and not at your table, they won't stop and wait for you. So, if you see them getting close, make a run for the table otherwise you'll have to wait for them to make another round trip.

There's was a cute little parade with the characters carrying hunny pots and balloons and the kids following them. At one point there was a back-up and Eeyore had to nudge some kids along. We also enjoyed the little boy, Warren, next to us who was celebrating his birthday. He was just adorable! The look on his face when Pooh stopped at his table was priceless!

It's been a long time since I had eaten at Crystal Palace and was happily surprised with the outcome. We were done a little after 9 a.m. so we were pumped to get through MK attractions again before the huge crowds made it into the parks.

Up next: Our last meal at Artist Point...

Rose & Crown Pub and Restaurant

2008-04-24T21:41:00.002-05:00

Day 5 - Rose & Crown Dining Room

I had made an 8 p.m. ADR in hopes of getting a seat on the waterfront in time for Illuminations (my favorite nighttime show!!). We got to the restaurant about a half hour ahead to check in and see what are chances were.

We got lucky. It was a pretty chilly evening. Being from Wisconsin (and DH is originally from Vermont), we're used to cold. But, we didn't expect it to get this cold in Central Florida. Thank goodness I had my sweatshirt and long pants on. DH still only had shorts and a polo shirt on. Of course, he wouldn't listen to me and get a sweatshirt at one of the nearby shops.

But, anyways, we got seated around 7:45 p.m. on the waterfront. There was a light standard in front of us, but it didn't really impede our vision of the show. Plus, right next to us, there was an awning that had heat lamps so DH could stand under there to thaw out.

Our waiter was amazingly helpful. He gave DH complimentary tea throughout the night to keep him warm. He also stopped to chat with us about his hometown and to tell us a little bit more about the food.

We started out with the cheese platter (we were on a cheese kick for a few days). There was a cheddar, a stilton in a puff pastry and one other cheese that I can't remember. Served with crackers and fruit. It was a great starter. I enjoyed the stilton a lot while DH enjoyed the cheddar. Stilton is very bleu cheese-like and pungent so if you don't like bleu cheese or gorgonzola types, this will definitely be a lot stronger and less to your liking.

For entrees, DH tried the Bangers & Mash. I was surprised how flavorful the "bangers," or sausages were. Coming from an area with heavy German immigrants, our bratwursts tend to be on the spicy side to gain flavor, but the bangers were still flavorful, but not at all spicy. I enjoyed the Leg of Lamb served with mixed greens. It was a bit fatty and the greens, like mint and sage, added most of the flavor to the dish.

Our dessert came just as Illuminations was starting. DH had a warm pudding dessert (he tried all efforts to stay warm!). While I indulged in the guinness cake. Since it was so chilly out, the desserts got cold fast and as we were watching the show and not paying attention to food, the cake got a little cold and tough. I assume when it's piping hot it's amazing.

It was probably one of the most romantic nights of our trip. Being able to sit with my hunny, sip a nice glass of wine, eat really good food, and watch an incredible show. I'd definitely recommend other couples try to land a seat on the patio for the show. But if it's chilly remember to pack a blanket or the proper clothing!

To my surprise, DH didn't get sick (or at least not yet) from turning into a human icicle.

Up next: Crystal Palace character breakfast...

50s Prime Time Cafe

2008-04-24T21:41:00.001-05:00

Day 4 - 50's Prime Time Cafe

50's Prime Time Cafe is a must-do for my family every trip. I don't know if it has to do with a sado-masochistic nature of being verbally assaulted by your server, or just having a light-hearted time, but we always enjoy it!

I have never seen the restaurant as full as this night. We had 7:05 ressies. The Tune-In Lounge and lobby area, plus the outside, were packed with families waiting to get a seat. We overhead the hostess say that without an ADR the wait would be three hours. Three hours!? The park wasn't even open that long but people seemed to want to wait and see.

We were finally sat after about 15 minutes in a room in the back of the restaurant. Our table was in a corner next to some windows that were a bit drafty. I was wishing I had worn longer pants and had to wear my jacket during the meal.

The service, while insulting and funny, was a bit overwhelmed. Our CM would disappear for long spurts of time and then forget that she needed to bring a refill or that she needed to take someone else's order in the section. But, she was very good in making it known that we were newlyweds. There was also a couple for Texas who had gotten married a week before. The CM would try and see what couple was more lovey-dovey and point it out to the rest of "our cousins". Too bad she kept calling us the couple from Michigan (we're really from Wisconsin).

...Maybe there's a Milwaukee, Michigan?...

As for the food, we indulged in the fried cheese served with crackers and grapes for an appetizer. It was so tasty! It wasn't like a fried mozzarella stick, but it was a spreadable herb cheese. Maybe like a Rondele or a cream cheese herb dip. It was a great way to start the meal. Plus, DH had a chocolatey milk shake (tasted very Hershey's-like) and I enjoyed the cherry cola. There's nothing like real cherry syrup in a Coke compared to the fake stuff!

For our main course, DH had the fried chicken. The skin was so crispy and good. The mashed potatoes were lumpy and also quite tasty. I enjoyed the pot roast. The fork-tender beef melted in your mouth. The vegetables were soaked in the gravy goodness and the mashed potatoes paired perfectly underneath it all.

For dessert, DH attempted to eat the S'Mores. I think he got chocolated-out with the shake. But he did pretty well. The serving size of the S'mores is a lot smaller than I remember it. I remember back in the mid-90s a huge plate full of maybe 12-16 S'mores vs. the 6 that he got. I ordered the apple cobbler, which was more apples than cobbler. And, the cobbler was more just toasted oatmeal than a real crust. It pretty much just turned into a soupy mess once I tried to get through it.

I'd definitely have to re-think coming here again. It's food that I could make at home and it probably would taste better. You're mostly just going for ambience. Plus, the menu hasn't really changed since the first time we ate there nearly 15 years ago.

Up next: Rose & Crown...

Le Cellier Review

2008-04-24T21:40:00.002-05:00

Day 3 - Le Cellier

This is another of the new restaurants for me to try (others being Boma, Artist Point). I was very impressed with the service, atmosphere, and the quality of the food.

Being on the DDP, this was such a great find. You're basically breaking even with one meal plus you get high-quality food that rivals the steaks from other more well-known restaurants.

We had a 4:50 ADR for Le Cellier. So after enjoying some of the World Showcase (we needed to relax after a long day and night in MK), we made our way to the Canada pavilion. Not only is the landscaping breathtaking and great for pictures, the CMs in the area are so friendly.

We checked in at the podium and waited less than five minutes to be seated. In the dining area, we were seated in the "Ontario" section. Our hostess said that all the areas are separated by one of the Canadian provinces. I couldn't really tell the difference by any noticeable architecture. It all looked like deep tones of wood, with the flickering of candlelight upon white linen table cloths.

We were seated next to a gentleman vacationing alone who was very nice and we talked to him a bit about the DVC and how the steaks are aged in the basement. He makes it a point to come several times a trip.

We started off by sharing a bowl of the cheddar cheese soup made with the Moosehead ale. It was amazing! I could eat bowls of it and not want to eat anything else. Add on top of that the pretzel breadsticks (there's also sourdough and multi-grain, also exceptional) and you have an uber-incredible dipping sauce. The hint of bacon and the rich cheese lent so much flavor. And unlike many beer cheese soups I've had, you aren't left with a heavy beer aftertaste which can sometimes be bitter and overpowering.

DH had the mushroom filet mignon served with a wild mushroom risotto and fried onions. I enjoyed the 14-oz NY strip with baby yukon potatoes and a side of asparagus. Both steaks were incredibly done. Cooked to perfection. The tenderness was almost unreal. You barely had to chew. The beef almost melts in your mouth. DH's risotto was creamy and the wild mushrooms lent another level of flavor to his dish. The asparagus, all five stalks, was a little pricey for a side dish costing more than a pound would at the grocery store. It was also a tinge overdone and had lost its "bite," or crispness.

For dessert, DH enjoyed the adult-version of the chocolate mousse, while I indulged in the child's "chocolate moose", a cute and almost too picture-perfect to eat indulgence. But, the maple leaf cookies for antlers were crispy. A red shortbread tongue was tasty along with the decadent mousse filling. And the chocolate cake that topped the mousse was moist and tasty.

Overall, Le Cellier will probably be one of the restaurants we stop at every trip now. I hope the DDP higher-ups don't remove it from one of the participating restaurants because it presents a high-class service environment to families who normally wouldn't be able to enjoy such fine cuisine.

Up next: 50's Prime Time Cafe...

Liberty Tree Tavern Review

2008-04-24T21:40:00.001-05:00

Day 2 - Liberty Tree Tavern

This was our first full day in the parks and probably our longest since EMH kept MK open until 3 a.m. Well, we tried to burn the midnight oil, but we hit a wall by 1 a.m.

I also forgot to mention in my first post that this DH's first time eating TS on property. And for those who didn't know, it was also our honeymoon trip.

We had dinner ressies at Liberty Tree Tavern for 7 p.m. So after enjoying a mid-day nap at the hotel, we made our way back for dinner. We were welcomed to quite a large line of families at the entry way, but were kindly escorted inside since we had ADRs.

The lobby, with all of its revolution-era kitchen equipment and furniture, is fun to look at. I enjoyed just taking pictures of the light fixtures. From the waiting area, you can see a second floor landing that leads to the restrooms. Flanking both sides are two large dining rooms, mostly filled with large groups of families.

LTT serves up family-style fare. A pre-fixe menu includes family favorites like a tossed mixed green salad with a house strawberry vinaigrette, roast turkey, carved beef, pork in a honey glaze, green beans, mashed potatoes, Stouffer's macaroni and cheese, stuffing, and an apple cobbler with vanilla ice cream.

I think the triptophan in the turkey led to us hitting our early wall during EMH, but at the time, it tasted just like Mom's on Thanksgiving. The gravy that accompanied the turkey was smooth and didn't taste like it came from a jar.

But, my favorite was actually the beef. Tender, done to a perfect medium, with a little au jus. It paried great with the mashed potatoes and the green beans.

The only let down, not to LTT's fault, is the Stouffer's Mac & Cheese. DH and I used to LOVE Stouffer's frozen entrees as a special weekend treat, but they recently changed their recipe sans trans fat. It just isn't the same leaving a grainy cheese texture that rivals fake, or no-fat cheese. Plus, you can't get a good brown crust with the new recipe. If you're a mac & cheese purist, I'd pass on it.

The dessert was a traditional apple cobbler with ice cream. Nothing special. But the characters, like Minnie, Goofy, Chip & Dale made the experience more special and probably enhanced the food.

If you're looking for a good way to meet some of the big name characters, I'd suggest LTT. Especially since they're wearing Colonial-era clothing that you can't see elsewhere in the parks.

Up next: Le Cellier....

Boma Review

2008-04-24T21:39:00.000-05:00

It has been so hard for me to write these posts. It finally means that vacation is over and I'm really home.

But, we had some incredible TS meals during our stay April 12-19. These are going to be "fairly brief," but if anyone wants more information on something I'd be happy to share since food is my other obsession!

We were on the DDP, but didn't use it for Boma in lieu of using 2 credits for Artist Point on our last evening.

Day 1: Boma, AKL
We had a 5:05 ressie. Got to the lodge early so we got some great pictures. It's so massive and breath-taking. We're definitely thinking of staying here our next trip. We checked in around 4:40 before the restaurant opened. The CMs were singing and beating drums to get everyone pumped up. The food smelled amazing!

Our waiter was so helpful. He sat down with us to explain the set-up with the pods. The main entrees like beef and fish on the far right, sides and salads in the center, a kid's island, fruits and then desserts on the left.

Some of the highlights for me were the couscous salad, black bean hummus, spiced chicken, fufu (it was kinda like a sweet potato), and the banana bread pudding. I absolutely loved it.

The meat was so tender and juicy all across the board. DH enjoyed the prime rib which had an incredibly flavorful rub. The chicken had a crispy skin, not at all spicy, but the earthy rub was amazingly bold and different. We were surprised how you didn't need to salt or pepper anything which is the indication of a highly-skilled chef.

The soups were also delectable. I thoroughly enjoyed the bean soup. It wasn't like a traditional split-pea soup, but it had several different layers of flavors which defintely made my mouth happy. DH raved about the carrot soup, which was almost dessert like, with its creamy texture and sweet attributes.

I wouldn't recommend Boma for someone who isn't that adventurous of an eater or who's finicky. It's a great place for large families. There are several large tables that seat more than 6 or even 8 people. The large windows make for great views of the pool area. And the thatched roof makes it seem like you're really in a hut.

Stay tuned...up next is Liberty Tree Tavern!

The Grand Slam Revolution

2008-04-03T13:38:00.002-05:00

I think everyone who reads this knows my affinity toward pancakes, especially on the weekend. Well, on Sunday I was really hankering for some good 'ole Denny's pancakes, so I took Brett for a late breakfast when I got out of work.

We haven't been to Denny's in a while and normally it isn't the best of service. But today was an even worse exception for the rule. I felt so bad for our waiter, Lorenzo, who was one of like 12 employees doing all the work. He was helping both sides of the restaurant while the rest of the female employees sat around the register gabbing and texting with the what-I-would-assume-to-be manager on-duty. It took us at least a half hour before we got drinks and had our order taken.

Now, normally I would probably leave if no one acknowledges our existence, but this was just such an extreme case of poor restaurant management that we stayed to see how bad it could get. Well, let's just say it didn't get bad, it got weird.

Somewhere between eating my Meat Lover's Skillet and my side of buttermilk pancakes, the French and American revolutions walked into the restaurant.

No lie...

I looked up with a dribble of maple syrup on my chin to see a man dressed as Napoleon carrying a sword and wearing a wig asking for a table for 12. Right behind him came George Washington, some French debutante (equipped with a peacock feather fan), and what I could only guess was some American revolutionary-era dressed woman.

Everyone stopped and just stared. I could overhear the manager saying, "When did the Pilgrims land?"

Brett just continued eating like nothing was wrong, or at least strange about this image. Twelve grown adults dressed in a specific era of clothing (and might I add that some of the men had quite nice looking legs to pull off the white tights) ordering "Moons Over My Hammy" isn't something you wake up in the morning expecting to see.

When I asked Brett if he would take a picture of me with his cell phone and the guy with the sword, his response was, "Let Napoleon eat in peace."

Good grief. Can't a girl even get a picture with a historic figure and some pancakes?

Needless to say, we won't be going back to that Denny's in a while. It took us until 3:30 to finally get out and pay after seeing one of the chefs literally walk out of the restaurant carrying a double cheeseburger and a cigarette.

I think that Denny's has entered the Twilight Zone...

Dear Winter...

2008-03-24T15:06:00.002-05:00

Dear Winter 2008,

I don't think we have officially met even though you begrudgingly have taken it upon yourself to make a great impression on my life this winter. I would like to take this opportunity to come to a compromise. While many people in southeastern Wisconsin would like to see at least 13 more inches (to reach the snowfall record) of snow fall upon this great white tundra, I do not.

I may speak only for myself, but I really don't believe that I do. I have had it with your intolerant nature. Your inability to lead us into spring, into a time where the trees begin to bloom, the birds begin to chirp, and once again, I can see out my bedroom window.

For too long you have held your white and fluffy grasp on us. We have had it! It was all nice and cheery when children were playing in their yards in piles of snowdrifts up to their waists in November. It was lovely having a white Christmas and an even whiter New Year's. But cries of sorrow fill my heart as we now have seen Easter come and go. Wearing a chunky parka instead of a sleeveless Easter dress to Church, it just doesn't feel right.

You have messed with the heads of millions this year placing your voodoo charms on our minds. Luring us into a false sense of security a few weeks ago with temperatures nearing the 60 degree mark, only to bring us 15 inches of snow on the first day of spring!

You have had your last laugh Winter 2008. Spring and Summer will prevail! Their strength and determination to bring us sultry sun and loud, booming thunderstorms will overcome this tyranny you have exalted for the past five months. I refuse to let you ruin Opening Day tailgates by forcing thousands of people to grill bratwursts in frigid temperatures or down snow-covered cans of Miller products.

I hope we may come to an agreement, Winter. While you bring light to the eyes of many, we hope you go away peacefully. I wish you a very well hibernation.

Sincerely,

A Disgruntled Midwesterner

People Making a Difference in the Community

2008-03-13T12:07:00.001-05:00

Click Here to Read my profile of Maria Lopez Vento from the Helen Bader Foundation.

Need some Luck 'o the Irish

2008-03-13T12:00:00.002-05:00

Check out this week's Threeview of Brocach Irish Pub and Restaurant.

Click Here to Read My Review

Honeymoon Pre-Trip Report

2008-03-11T17:19:00.002-05:00

In an effort to cure my boredom today (and because we're exactly one month to our honeymoon), I've decided to post our pre-trip report.

Here is the background:

Who:
Me, a WDW veteran, with over 20 trips under my belt. Last visit 2001.
Brett, also a WDW veteran, with two trips. Last visit 1998.

Accomodations:
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort with the Disney Dining Plan.
Due to financial concerns, we decided to switch from a Disney "deluxe" resort to a "moderate" level. I'm not too concerned since really we'll be in the parks a majority of the days but I was slightly disappointed to have to move from the Animal Kingdom Lodge. This will be Brett's first stay at an on-site hotel, while I have previously stayed at Fort Wilderness, Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter.

The Disney Dining Plan includes one snack (a popcorn, ice cream, cookie, etc), a counter service meal (value meal or entree, beverage and dessert), and a table service meal (entree, dessert and beverage) for each day of the hotel stay for each guest.

Tickets:
(2) 2-day Park Hoppers - Given as gifts for my graduation and Brett's birthday in May from Mike and Jody
plus
(2) 4-day Park Hoppers for the rest of the stay
Park Hoppers allow guests to "hop" from park-to-park for the length-of-stay. They also include certificates for special recreational perks like using the water sprites or visiting Planet Hollywood at Downtown Disney.

Day 1 - April 12 - Arrival Day
We leave Milwaukee for "The World" early in the morning. Check-in isn't officially until 3 p.m., but we're hoping that a room is available when we get to the resort around noon. If it isn't, we'll check our bags with bell services and explore the resort and the Downtown Disney area for the lunch hour. We have ressies at Boma: Flavors of Africa, a buffet at Animal Kingdom Lodge for dinner. I'm really excited about that because I haven't seen the hotel and I really want to try their signature dessert: the Zebra Domes, a coffee flavored mousse covered in ganache. After dinner, we're heading to Disney's Boardwalk to visit Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar, ESPN Club for some competitive air hockey, and Atlantic Dance Hall, if Brett brings his dancing shoes.

Day 2 - April 13 - Magic Kingdom
We don't have our ressies yet, but we're planning on doing the Keys to the Kingdom tour in the morning. The tour takes you behind-the-scenes and beneath the Magic Kingdom to the "Utilidors" to see the inner workings of all the magic. Then, they tell you stories about the creation of the park and some tidbits about the Disney family. There's also lunch included at the Columbia Harbour House. Since there's Extra Magic Hours that evening until 11 p.m. we'll head back to the hotel to lay by the pool during the afternoon. Then, we have 7 p.m. ressies at the Liberty Tree Tavern at MK. The colonial-era family-style service includes all-you-can-eat ham, pot roast, and Stouffer's Mac & Cheese. After, we'll grab a spot for Wishes, the nighttime fireworks show and Spectromagic, while experiencing the rides and attractions -- I can't wait to ride Buzz Lightyear's Spaceranger Spin again!!

Day 3 - April 14 - EPCOT/Downtown Disney
Since we're having such a busy MK day, we can sleep in today. Brett will have enough time to go for a swim, or take a walk around the lagoon's 2.5-mile path at the hotel. Then, we'll make it to EPCOT a little before noon to experience the Future World attractions like Mission: Space, Soarin', and Test Track. We have early dinner ressies at Le Cellier in the Canada pavilion at World Showcase. The restaurant is a steak house that features Canadian favorites like the Beer Cheese Soup and the Chocolate Moose, a chocolate mousse in the shape of a moose with antlers. How cute! Then, we'll take the ferry over to Disney's Port Orleans Riverside for some beignets and to enjoy the musical stylings of Bob Jackson before taking the ferry down the Sassagoula River to Downtown Disney for an evening at the Adventurer's Club, a 1930's comedy club with talking masks that adorn the walls and interactive games with cast members.

Day 4 - April 15 - Animal Kingdom/Disney's Hollywood Studios
Since neither of us has really experienced Animal Kingdom, we have an early morning ahead of us to get to the park before opening. We'll grab fast passes for Expedition Everest before heading on the Kilimanjaro Safaris and other attractions like the Lion King live show and Dinosaur. Then, it's back to relax by the pool before we take the bus to Disney's Hollywood Studios for dinner at the Prime Time '50s Cafe, a restaurant that features Mom favorites like Fried Chicken and a Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake. Make sure you save enough room for the S'mores for dessert and keep your elbows off the table. Then, it's over to Hollywood and Vine to catch a seat for that evening's 8:30 show of Fantasmic!, a light and water spectacular into Mickey Mouse's dreams...and nightmares!

Day 5 - April 16 - Disney's Hollywood Studios/EPCOT
We don't have a lot of time for attractions at the studios the night before, so it's back to the studios for Tower of Terror (that's all Brett), Rockin' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith (again, all Brett), the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, Pizza Planet, and other movie-inspired attractions. Then, we'll take the ferry over to EPCOT's World Showcase for dinner ressies at the United Kingdom pavilion's Rose & Crown Dining Room just in time for a water-side seat for Illuminations: Reflection of Earth, a nighttime fireworks and water show on the World Showcase Lagoon.

Day 6 - April 17 - Free Day
It's up early today for an early character breakfast at MK's Crystal Palace with Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore and Friends. Then, it's back over to AK or EPCOT to catch up on our favorite attractions or one's we missed. In the evening, we'll be cutting up the greens at Fantasia Gardens adventure mini-golf with a few friends from Intercot, a Disney message board that I belong to. And finally, a quick stroll to Disney's Beach Club for dessert at Beaches & Cream. I don't think we'll be able to finish the "Kitchen Sink," scoops of their 21 ice creams, every topping in the place, and it's served (literally) in a kitchen sink. Don't know how I could get that past the TSA...

Day 7 - April 18 - The last full day - Magic Kingdom
As is customary, it's back to the Magic Kingdom for the last full day of fun and excitement. We have a photo shoot in the morning with Stan Kelley, an area photographer, at the Magic Kingdom. I hope he can get us on Cinderella's Carousel! Then, a little rest at the hotel after some more fun on the attractions -- gotta take one more ride on Pirates to see Jack Sparrow. Then, we have ressies at Disney's Wilderness Lodge at Artist Point for a romantic dinner overlooking a geyser at a 1920's-style National Park Lodge restaurant. I've got my eye on the Cedar Plank Salmon and the Northwestern U.S. wine flight. Then, maybe a stroll down to the dock to take in that evenings Water Pageant on the Seven Seas Lagoon.

Day 8 - April 19 - Departure Day (sniffle...)
It's always a sad day, but we made sure our flight was late in the day back to reality. Check-out is at 11 a.m. so we'll get the bags to Bell Services before heading over to Downtown Disney for some last-minute shopping at the world's largest Disney store and lunch. Then, we gotta catch our bus to the airport and back home.

As you can tell, I'm the master of overplanning. All of this is subject to change to my feet hurting, wanting to do something completely different, and weather! But, it's fun to look at isn't it?

Of course, we'll have loads of pictures to bring back and I'll have detailed food reports for every meal!

P.S. If anyone is planning a Disney vacation soon, I'd be happy to help plan it for them. I think I'm looking into doing this to get some side money, so you can recommend me to friends and family!

Harry Potter 6 Trailer!

2008-02-21T21:58:00.001-06:00

Well, we haven't quite come to where a real trailer for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince has come out, but an eager fan has made a trailer out of legos!

Enjoy!!

The Wedding Round-Up

2008-02-21T09:39:00.002-06:00

Well, it's almost been an entire week that I can say that I have been married. What the !@#$

Who let that happen!?

Kidding aside, not much has changed. Everyone keeps asking how much different it is to be married. When you've been together as long as Brett and I, we were essentially married already. The biggest change that I've been having trouble with is calling him my husband and saying I'm someone's wife now. It was easy saying he was my fiance, but making that switch to "husband," it's like...whoa...back the truck up a second. I suppose somewhere along the way I'll get to used to it.

Just like I have to get used to hyphenating my name and having an exceptionally long signature. I was never one to scour pages of notebook paper with signatures but I found myself doing that yesterday. But I think I have come to terms with my 'F's and we can come to an accord where I like how loopy they look.

I'm just happy that the wedding went off without a hitch...mostly. I only had a slight bridezilla moment a few minutes before the wedding when I thought we lost the toss bouquet. We didn't. I was just confused about how many bridesmaids I had. I kept doing that all week.

Brett and I also noticed as we were cutting the cake that someone poked their finger in the frosting. I hope that doesn't show up in the pictures. Yes, the cake was real. Simma's did a fantabulous job! I hope everyone else enjoyed it as much as I did.

It was such an exhausting week, but so well worth it. I loved seeing all my best friends and family all week. They helped keep me sane (I only cried a little bit walking down the aisle...but they were those happy tears). But only if they could have helped me from getting the giggles during the vows in the ceremony. I suppose it wouldn't have been my wedding without the giggles, huh?

After an exhausting 96 hours, it's no wonder I slept for nearly 48 hours straight on Sunday and Monday. I got up for about 6 hours to eat, watch the news, and open a few presents.

But, all in all...I'm happy to be a married person now. I don't have to plan to biggest party of my life anymore. I can start looking for jobs full-time again, going to the gym, and finish planning the honeymoon (the best part!!!) in April. Plus, we have a fondue pot and a new "Bride and Groom" cookbook, so we're all set to have the wickedest cool dinner parties...ever!

Chris's Highlights from the Wedding Week:

Seeing Brett stand at the altar all flustered and sick
Hanging out with Imaeyen for the first time in forever! (Represent the Chester!)
Literally taking a jello shot from a syringe at Lucille's
Dancing with my Daddy at the reception
Shorty teaching Evan how to ask girls to dance
The hibachi lunch and how the chef threw food at Imaeyen's boob
Everyone all together...priceless!

Restaurant Review: Quimera Cocina Boricua

2008-02-09T08:36:00.000-06:00

Here's my latest restaurant review from Quimera Cocina Boricua:

Click Here to Read

New Bond Film Plot, Title Released

2008-01-24T22:44:00.001-06:00

For those of us waiting anxiously for the follow-up to Daniel Craig's follow-up to "Casino Royale," the wait it a little less now that a title and plot have been released.

The story takes place about an hour after Casino Royale ends leaving Bond betrayed by his true love. Titled 'Quantum of Solace,' the movie comes from Ian Fleming's collection of stories "For Your Eyes Only."

Filming began a few weeks ago in Europe. The film promises to have more action, blood, and grit than the first. French actor and Oscar-nominee Mathieu Amalric plays the new villain who has been described as a cross between former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

The film is directed by Monster's Ball director Marc Forster. The film is due to be released later in 2008. (yay!)

Can I Change the Wedding Cake?

2008-01-24T22:28:00.001-06:00

This is the coolest cake...ever!

The crew from the show 'Ace of Cakes' on Food Network made this cake resembling Hogwarts Castle for the staff over at Pottercast and The Leaky Cauldron.

Helpful Tips for Brett About Me #2

2008-01-24T20:38:00.000-06:00

Here is another helpful tip for Brett as he enters into marriage...

Tip #2 - I like food.

I don't think it takes a rocket scientist to know that I like food. Wait, let's correct that. I love food.

I could never be an anorexic. I like to eat. I like to cook. Brett will never have to worry about me being that 'skinny girl,' ...ever.

All I ask is that you feed it when its hungry. I'm like a little kid. If you don't feed me, I get cranky. I'm not picky. A few Goldfish crackers, maybe a fruit roll-up, even some Cheerios. Just keep something in your pocket and reward me when I do something good.

Wait, it's worse. I'm like a puppy...

HELP!!! I can be the ultimate Disney cast member!!!

2008-01-17T21:31:00.000-06:00

There's currently a promotion being run by CareerBuilder.com and Disney to be the Chief Magic Officer at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland California for the next year.

What does this mean?

The winner would get the chance to grant wishes during the "Year of a Million Dreams" contest on selected weekends throughout the next year. The job entails a salary, airfare and limo transfer to and from the airport, lodging at a Disney resort, plus several trips for my family and friends during the year.

How cool is that???

So, what do I have to do?

First, I need to submit a sixty second video telling why I would be the best person for the job...

...duh...

We all know I'm the hugest Disney nerd....ever!!

So, once you get past that point -- the public votes on the top 20 videos that are submitted. The ones that get the most votes (that's where you and all your friends and family come in to help me get this awesomest job ever!!!) during an online voting period.

Then, they select the final 20 and they give you the means to create another video to garner more votes from the public.

Finally, they select the top Magic Officer!

So, you guys in to help me get my dream Disney job!?!?

Click here for more information

30 Things About Me: Tips for Brett

2008-01-10T22:38:00.000-06:00

Since we're so close to the wedding, I thought I'd take this time to blog about myself as a way for Brett to understand what he's getting into when he utters those two words: "I do".

I call this little segment "30 Things About Me...Tips for Brett". This is a way for me to share those things that he may (or maybe not) know about me. A kind little gesture so he won't be frightened by my little intricacies. I'll try and be good and do one a day (I built in a little room for error since we're 36 days away from the big day).

Today...

Tip #1 I love stuffed animals.

I have always loved stuffed animals. I think it has to do with not being in the womb long enough, or perhaps its because I was essentially an only child growing up since there was such a huge age difference between me and my siblings. Whatever the reason, I have to sleep with something fluffy and cuddly at night.

Before my dad sold our house a few years ago, I had to go through all of my little friends and decide which ones I had room enough to keep and which ones had to go to Goodwill and be passed along for another child to love. Miraculously, I was able to keep two entire garbage bags full of stuffed animals. But sadly, the fate of six other bags is still unknown. I hope that they have made amends with little Suzy or Bobby, the drooling problems of a large German Shepherd, or the dirty habits of families that don't clean the house enough.

I have managed to stay close with Gorilla (he's been with me since day one), Mojo (Ann gave him to me my freshmen year of college when I was in the hospital), Edgar (a fluffy dog wearing a train costume that I got for a birthday), Puggle (a little pug/beagle mix that Brett bought me for our first V-Day), and Lumpy (the best X-Mas present ever!), just to name a few.

I'm sure I could go to bed at night and sleep soundly without Lumpy or Gorilla, but a piece of me doesn't want to. I know I will have Brett next to me at night (and he's quite furry enough), but it's just not the same. Sometimes the quiet, silent stares, the unjudgemental touch, and the unconditional love that my stuffed animals provide me is more than anyone else can. They've heard secrets that no one else knows. They've been with me as I cried myself to sleep at night.

Many people would say that I have attachment issues, but I don't look at it that way. I feel that my childhood memories are something that should be cherished. For as long as I have my stuffed animals, I remember things from when I was a little girl. I want to be able to give Gorilla and Lumpy to my own children one day and I hope they live on and on for generations.

You've Been Deleted

2008-01-03T21:47:00.000-06:00

As per my Facebook status message recalled yesterday, I have a new cell phone. The LG just couldn't take the strain of me not answering calls anymore, so I had to upgrade to a Motorola RAZR.

Because I'm cheap, I wasn't going to pay the $10 that Verizon charges to transfer my hundreds upon hundreds of contacts, messages, ringtones, and videos to my new SIM card. (Might I Add: That is whack!)

So, I spent about an hour this morning keying in all the contact information for everyone who is important in my life.

It's so weird. You really take for granted the amount of people you add to your contact list. Like for instance, why do I have Jason Lee (star of "Alvin and the Chipmunks") as a contact? Or, why do still have that kid from junior year of college that I interviewed for UWM's hottest guys in there? No need for that. A majority of the people that are in my phone, I probably haven't spoken to in over a year (if not more).

As I started hitting delete and as the screen posted 'do you really want to erase this contact?' I felt as if I were losing a part of my life as I randomly just deleted a part of my life. I know they're just phone numbers, but there was a time when I probably dialed them a few times a week or even a few times a day.

I wonder what happened to some of those relationships. Was it something I did? Was it something someone else did? Were we never really that close at all? I guess I'll never really know why some people come in and out of our lives (or our cell phones).

Christina's Top List of 2007

2008-01-02T21:33:00.000-06:00

Christina's Top List of 2007
I wanted to take this opportunity to say goodbye to 2007 (yea, it's been gone for two days now, and I realize I'm a little late).

So, here is a list of some of my favorites (and not-so-favorites) of last year...

Best Movie: Disney/Pixar's "Ratatouille" made rodents cute and cuddly and good chefs. Patton Oswalt from TV's "The King of Queens" stars as Remy, a budding rat-turned-chef, who helps a not-so-competent dish boy turn into the next Jacques Pepin. The graphics are incredible (don't blink as you take a ride down the Rhine or past the Eiffel Tower) and the human figures are only getting better.

Worst Movie I Paid For: "License to Wed" starring Robin Williams and Mandy Moore was hit or miss. Wait to get it on DVD. The jokes could come or go depending on your humor. The only redeeming factor was a hilarious look at plastic babies pooping in a department store.

Best DVD Rental: "Driving Lessons" starring Rupert Grint and Laura Linney was an under-appreciated coming-of-age film about a teenage boy who has a born-again Christian mother who lives with her divorced husband and a mute. Grint's character must look after an unemployed actress who teaches him the important things about life and love. It wasn't released in the Milwaukee area and it isn't in a lot of rental locales, but it's highly worth while and touching if you can find it.

Best Song: I found myself jamming out to Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" a little loudly in my car. But what can I say, the girl can sing. I don't know what Tony Romo was thinking, but he needs to get his head examined.

Song I Couldn't Get Out of My Head: Any song where Fergie starts spelling was engrained in my brain this year. Add it to the list of 'bananas', I'll never forget how to spell 'Fergalicious'.

Best New Restaurant I Tried: KA in Franklin gets my nod as the best new restaurant in the area. It's extensive martini list and great small plate items are great for after work or on the weekend with the girls. Be sure to try the apple/cranberry/walnut brie -- absolutely amazing!

Best Book I Read: It might have come out a few years ago, but Nicholas Sparks' "The Notebook" was even better than the movie. I was crying for nearly two hours. I don't know if two hours of crying means a better story, but his character development and ability to make characters you care about is both touching and endearing and tugs at your own personal heart strings.

Best Moment: Um, like...getting engaged. So, I'm getting hitched in less than 50 days, but it wouldn't be unless I said yes on May 12, 2007. How can I forget that no one took any pictures and the waiter at the Cheesecake Factory who was like, "Dawg, did you just ask her to marry you? ...Right on..." I can't make this stuff up.

Worst Pop Culture Moment: Britney Spears. She's a train wreck. 'Nuff said.

Movie Review: Sweeney Todd

2007-12-27T11:20:00.000-06:00

I have to admit I'm not one for musicals. But with the recent renaissance of films like "Chicago," "Moulin Rouge," "Hairspray," and "Phantom of the Opera," the musical film has made a gigantic comeback to the big screen.

The new Tim Burton film "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" is based upon the Stephen Sondheim Broadway musical. But its history goes well beyond the Great White Way.

The first telling of the murderous barber goes back to 19th Century London. Thomas Prest, a popular writer of the era would pluck true stories from The Times and then have them printed in pennies (magazines sold for a penny). Sweeney Todd could arguably be found in one such publication called "The People's Periodical" in November 1846.

Since then, this macabre tale filled with lore has been made into films and then Sondheim's musical starring Angela Lansbury ("Murder, She Wrote") and Len Cariou which came to the stage in 1979. In 1998, Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley starred in a version that aired on the BBC.

As the story goes, Benjamin Barker (Johnny Depp) is falsely accused of a crime and sent away for over a decade. During his departure the evil Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman) pines for his beautiful wife and young daughter, Johanna.

Returning to London a completely different man, we are introduced to Sweeney Todd, a man with revenge in his heart. With the help of Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter), the maker of some of London’s worst meat pies, they devise a bloody good plan to get even with every man who took Barker’s idyllic life away.

The dark, almost monochromatic canvas that Burton uses comes to life with vivid caricatures portrayed by Depp, Bonham Carter, Rickman, Timothy Spall (“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”), Sacha Baron Cohen (“Borat”) and newcomers to the big screen Jayne Wisener (Johanna), Ed Sanders (Toby), and Jamie Campbell Bower (Anthony).

Depp is at the top of his game after another jaunt as Capt. Jack Sparrow in this year’s earlier hit “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”. Probably one of the best actors of his generation, Depp has only added another successful notch into his acting resume with this exuberant, dark, and melancholy performance that demonstrates his singing ability. Bonham Carter, who is also director Burton’s girlfriend, had the most difficult musical part to play with fast passages and a high soprano key. While none of the key actors have a musical background, it would be hard to tell. Arguably they could jump from Hollywood to Broadway without a second glance.

Rickman’s portrayal of evil continues in this role as Judge Turpin. Looking wearied and in much need of a shave, Turpin imprisons Barker’s daughter with the help of Spall’s character “Beadle Bamford”. Probably the most out of his comfort zone, Rickman seemed strained while singing, of course that could have been the Spandex pants holding him in.

It’s hard to find a bad Tim Burton film going through his resume except for maybe “Planet of the Apes,” which coincidentally is where he met Bonham Carter. “Sweeney Todd” has only put him in the higher echelon of directors with a niche for creative and great film-making. Not for the squeamish or faint-of-heart, “Sweeney Todd” turns the musical genre on its head. And really, “Sweeney Todd” is just a horror flick, but it’s a successful, unconventional slasher flick with a great score and cast that is still amazing audiences nearly two centuries from its dark origins.

10 Weeks Until the Wedding!

2007-12-08T11:19:00.000-06:00

I'm somewhat scared that only 10 weeks are left until the wedding. I feel like nothing has gotten accomplished or that I'm doing stuff completely wrong.

Case in point: I forgot to put on the postage on the return envelopes for the response cards. Thanks Brett for remembering the next day as I'm brushing my teeth. Very helpful.

Today, I'm picking up my dress. I'm very, very scared that it's going to look hideous, well...that I'm going to look hideous. I don't even have shoes picked out yet. I don't know how I'm going to do my hair and make-up. My flowers are kinda set, but I'm worried about those, too.

I just feel that things are whirling out of control very fast. We're trying to find wedding readings that are meaningful to us and our personalities. It's been very difficult finding things that are humorous, yet poignant and loving, and reflect our relationship and time as a couple. If anyone has any ideas, please let me know. I've scoured most Nicholas Sparks book, JRR Tolkien, movie quotes, whatever.

please hold...work calls...

We also don't have clothes for the groom (and groomsmen) ordered. I just feel like its getting very late and soon we'll hit some point-of-no-return and he'll end up wearing a taffeta tuxedo in lavender with ruffles reminiscent of the late '60s.

I'm trying to maintain my composure and not get all worked up, but I feel that all these people have a certain image of what our wedding is going to be and my image and their image doesn't match-up and they'll be utterly disappointed. It's so hard to change someone's preconceived notions of what a wedding should be and how I or Brett want things to be. It just seems that everyone wants something else for us (all while meaning well), but it's just not what we want.

I wish I knew how to tell people without being mean that I respect their opinion but this isn't their decision to make.

Is it awful that I just want this wedding to be over? I'm having nightmares at night about it. I wake up in a cold sweat over dreams like one I had the other night (I was slugging Brett in the chest with the yellow pages because he wouldn't get married at the courthouse). Then, there's the some nights where I don't sleep at all.

I've never wanted a complicated wedding with lots of people. I want it to be simple and small, which I think, in theory, is what we're doing. But, all these other small details are starting to linger over my head and make it seem like I'm just doing something wrong. Does that make any sense at all, or am I just a crazy bride?

Up Next: Packers vs. Patriots and Christina vs. Brett

2007-11-18T06:12:00.000-06:00

Like a good Packer fan, I hope they can make a run for the Superbowl. And the way that it's going for the Patriots, it just might be possible for a SB rematch for the two teams in February.

Well, that would be a week before the wedding.

Pitting a Packers fan against a Patriot fan.

A cheesehead against a, uh, what do they call Pats fans?

A Brett Favre-follower against a Tom Brady-lover.

Good versus Evil.

While I love my future husband-to-be. We agreed within the first month of dating to never talk about sports to each other. We've pretty much staid that course throughout the three years that we have been together. But, now that the stars may align for this monumental event pitting a veteran quarterback and America's Team against the heir-apparent to a GQ cover, this could place the early weeks of our marriage in turmoil.

Yesterday, I piqued the possible scenario to Brett: "If the Packers were to win the Superbowl versus the Patriots, could your groomsmen wear Packers jerseys?"

To which I received a very adamant "NO!"

How dare you woman speak of having Patriots fans wear the Green and Gold? What is this nonsense that you speak!? This is heresy!

I even put out the stipulation: "Well, if the Patriots win, my girls will wear Patriots jerseys."

"No!"

My brother agrees that this is a creative way to bring the two families together. However, Brett wants no sports near his wedding day.

Deep down...

I think he's afraid that the Packers just could be having a miracle season...

Review: Pepe's Rockn' Taco Shack

2007-11-07T14:14:00.000-06:00

You can't go wrong with $2 margaritas during Happy Hour in Milwaukee.

Located a few blocks south of the hussle on Farwell and North Ave., Pepe's Rockn' Taco Shack has invigorated the space that once was Sol Fire in the 2000 block of N. Farwell Ave. on Milwaukee's east side.

Brightly colored pinatas and Corona posters adorn the dining and bar areas, but you'll also find retro prints of Mexican flicks with hombres wearing sombreros and fighting monsters or riding donkeys.

The waitstaff wears t-shirts (available for $16 in men's and women's styles) emblazoned on the back with the phrase: "If it ain't Pepe's, it's crap."

Too often have I gone into a cookie-cutter Mexican restaurant to find bland food from South of the Border. But at Pepe's if you like spice, you'll be in for a real treat. Starting off the K-Suh-Dea's, $5 plain, extra if you order with meat, (or quesadillas for the Spanish-speaking inclined) is filled with monstrous slices of jalapenos peppers, diced tomatoes and onions. Then you can have it with "grilled yard" (chicken) "ground cow" (ground beef), "steak'd cow" (beef steak), or "sea monkey" (shrimp).

One of the trends recently in the area is guacamole freshly made at the table. Habanero's in Wauwatosa is one of my favorites, but it is surely overpassed by the quirkiness of Pepe's version. Instead of having one of their staff mash the avocados, cilantro, onion, garlic, lime and other ingredients, they hand over the tools to the guest to make it a great anger management test.

The dinner menu isn't as diverse as some Mexican restaurants in the area, but it makes up for that with some of it's titles of dishes like the "Chimi...Whatever", $7 for plain, extra for meat. Or, the "O.R.E.," short for One Round Enchilada, $8. The steak version ($2 extra) had potential, but it was served luke warm with only one side of green rice.

The most promising entree seemed to be the "Devil Shrimp," $16.50, topped with diced cucumbers, fiery sea-monkeys, and served with rice. But the shrimp was underdone and reeked of a fishy taste that even the spices couldn't mask.

To cool off after some spicy dishes, we chose the flan, $4, the churros, $2, and my personal favorite -- the Choco Tacos, $3.

I expected the flan to be a little less hard and have more of a caramel flavor. Instead, it was drenched in a syrup and coconut dressing that seemed almost bitter. The churros were the last of the evening, slightly dry, but still sugary and good. And alas, the Choco Tacos weren't served all nice and pretty with whipped cream and chocolate shaving like I would have imagined them for $3, but they were served in the wrapper like I could have received at a 7-11.

Pepe's Rockn' Taco Shack has already surpassed some obstacles. It was forced to change its name from the "Pink Taco," reason for that is still unknown -- my bet is the derogatory nature, other's say that the Hard Rock Cafe's Las Vegas bar with the same name played a part.

The staff seems to be trying hard with great specials every night of the week from $2 margaritas from 4 to 7 p.m. during Happy Hour, or All-You-Can-Eat tacos on Tuesdays for $10-12, or even Sunday Game Days with five Coronitas for $10 or 20 tacos and a margarita pitcher for only $25.

But, it may struggle during the cold winter months if not enough North Ave. bar revelers venture down Farwell far enough to get some late night eats on the patio which is closed for the season. Only time will tell if this Mexican hot spot can outlast in this neighborhood.

The First Oscar Contender of the Year!

2007-11-01T23:09:00.000-05:00

I haven't even seen it yet but I'm predicting that Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman, and Sasha Baron Cohen will come away huge at the Oscars in '08.

The Tim Burton-directed flick adapts the Stephen Sondheim Broadway musical to the big screen. Not like your "Hairspray," "Dreamgirls," or "RENT," Sweeney Todd is dark and dreary, and possibly downright gory story of a man (Depp) who's life is taken away by a judge (Rickman). Sweeney returns to England after being sent off to Australia, his family gone.

With revenge in mind, he joins forces with a baker (Carter) to create some meat pies that are all the rave -- but do you really want to know the secret ingredient?

Depp et al. all do their own singing. Be sure to wait around for a duet between Johnny and Snape....er, Rickman.

Make sure you see Sweeney Todd -- opening in theatres on Dec. 21st. You can watch the trailer here: http://www.sweeneytoddmovie.com

X-Files Sequel Release Date Named

2007-11-01T22:08:00.000-05:00

For those of you who can just feel my excitement exuding from your computer screens, the sequel to "The X-Files" movie will be released on July 25, 2008.

The film brings back the characters of Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) to the big screen. Shooting begins Dec. 10 in Vancouver according to Fox execs. A majority of the series was filmed in Canada before relocating to LA.

When we last left the FBI duo, they were on the lam after Fox's "abduction" by aliens and Scully's supposed alien-baby birth. We've already found out what happened to his sister, Samantha. So, what could be in store for the next film...?

Fox says that the film will be a stand-alone piece written and directed by the series creator, Chris Carter. It looks to be more of a horror story than delving into the depths of conspiracy in our government -- I guess we get too much of that already in real life, huh?

The sequel's predecessor was released in 1998 and grossed over $189 million. The show ended a nine-year run on Fox in 2002.

The Best Cookies in the Air Now Available In Stores!

2007-10-31T12:17:00.001-05:00

For all of you loyal Midwest Airlines passengers who can't seem to get enough of those chocolatey cookies, well today is a great day for you!

Starting today, at six area Sendik's stores -- including Wauwatosa, Franklin, and Mequon -- you'll be able to buy packs for 32 frozen cookies for $8.99.

Time to get those ovens rared up for some cookie goodness!

Do I Have to Turn Into Bridezilla?

2007-10-28T10:12:00.001-05:00

We get a letter yesterday from Hotel Metro. Mind you, we signed our contract for our wedding and reception over a month ago. They have yet to put our deposit onto our credit card.

Well, the Director of Sales sends us a letter. First, and most annoyingly, he addresses it to Ms. Christina Relacion and Mr. Brian Fiennel.

OK...if you're going to send me correspondence -- get my future hubbie's name right! (Especially if his last name is spelled "Finnell" under the comments area about how we want the signs to read to direct our guests).

Anyways, it states that the price for our deposit which we signed our contract for is no longer valid and that we owe $500.

Did I miss something? Isn't what you sign the contract to "contractually bind" you and the place of business to that said price? Maybe I'm just imagining things, but that's what I thought it meant.

This is already on top of us having our first Event Coordinator MIA for the first three months. Don't get me wrong -- Michelle -- our new EC is absolutely amazing. But...I'm really starting to get scared by the incompetence of this place.

We think we may have to start researching and visiting new places for the ceremony and reception to have a back-up plan. Or, we may be going with a completely alternate plan that I really don't want to have to do -- it involves a court, us getting married without all of our friends, and just having a fun weekend with whoever can come, me not wearing a dress, and then having everyone come to our crazy-cool Disney reception in three or five years (depending on when you think the world is going to end -- if you believe Nostradamus is 2011, if its the Mayan calendar -- you have another year -- longggg story...)

On other kinda happy news, my dress is in. I haven't had time yet to go in and have my first fitting. Who knows if I'll actually need it now...

Can someone answer this T-Ball Question?

2007-10-27T11:03:00.000-05:00

Brett was telling me a funny little story yesterday about how he lost his hat during a T-ball game when he was living in Illinois. But, that's not the point right now...

The point is...

Why is there a pitcher's position in T-Ball if you're using tees?

Isn't that sort of redundant? Can someone shed some light on this for me? Maybe it's that I was never on a T-Ball team as a kid (y'know, I went straight into slow-pitch softball...)

Dumbledore's Secret

2007-10-25T23:06:00.000-05:00

In case you've been living in a cave for the past week, Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling outed one of her most beloved characters last week at an event at Carnegie Hall.

To the surprise and applause of many of her fans, she announced to a packed house that Albus Dumbledore -- the former head of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry -- is gay.

Ok...

Did anyone else see this coming?

Now, I'm probably one of the biggest Harry Potter fans out there. I've read all the books at least twice (I'm in the process of my second time with #7 right now) and I don't think Dumbledore's sexuality ever came into question for me. Perhaps, Voldemort's sexuality, but not Dumbledore.

I had always thought that secretly Albus had lost a love from long ago and that's why he had always told Harry about how important it is to love. I guess in a way I was right. I just never thought that it would have been with Gellert Grindelwald -- the wizard who was kicked out of Durmstrang for his use of underage Dark Arts.

Since I've started reading "Deathly Hallows" again I have noticed a few tidbits that Jo has thrown in there to hint at this long-lost love affair that took place when the two talented wizards were 17. But beyond that I think mostly that she has just announced that she is working on a prequel that will focus on the life and lies of Albus Dumbledore (yes, it will probably be named just like Rita Skeeter's seething biography from Book 7).

In other HP news, filming has begun for "Half-Blood Prince." If you search online you can see pictures of the outside facades of the house that will be used for Horace Slughorn's home in the beginning of the film. Reports from the set have announced that this week, Dan Radcliffe and Ralph Fiennes are filming a few of their scenes.

Also, a few new actors have been linked to Film 6. Most notably, (and this has not been confirmed by the studios or the actors themselves) Naomi Watts's name has surfaced as a fore-runner to play Narcissa Malfoy (wife of Lucius - played by Jason Isaacs, sister of Bellatrix Lestrange -- played by Helena Bonham Carter, and mother of Draco Malfoy -- played by Tom Felton, who has to be like 30).

Jim Broadbent has been named as the actor portraying Horace Slughorn. Most recently he was in "Hot Fuzz".

Also being linked to the film, are Bill Nighy. I have heard that he could play either Fenrir Greyback (the werewolf known to have a blood thirst for children and Weasleys) or as the new Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgeour. There have also been reports that "Pirates of the Caribbean" and BBC star Jack Davenport (Admiral Norrington) has been offered an unspecified role.

It seems that the only Brits who haven't signed on to the Harry Potter series are Judi Dench, Patrick Stewart, Orlando Bloom, Geoffrey Rush, and Joseph Fiennes...

Err...Actually, Joseph Fiennes (Voldy's younger brother who's famous for the Oscar-worthy "Shakespeare in Love") has also been linked to an unnamed role.

I guess with all those death eaters roles to fill, they need to keep it in the family. My hope is that Johnny Depp will take the role as Sirius Black's brother and Voldemort follow, Regulus A. Black.

This Took Me Back...

2007-10-25T22:55:00.000-05:00

I was uploading some music to use as bumper's for Sunday's shows and I found this one video from back in high school.

I used to bop to it. I hate to admit that I actually liked it. I remember going to see the movie with a group of friends and during the credits I got up and started doing the dance from the video. So embarrassing!

What is this little ditty?

Oh, check the link to find out...

The Rumpledoodle

2007-10-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

Last night, Brett and I watched one of our favorite movies...ever!

"Pooh's Heffalump Movie"

I know. I know. You're probably laughing at us right now. What? No drama? No adventure? Your favorite movie is an animated Disney feature?

I didn't say it was, like, our favorite movie of all time. But, it has a soft-spot in our heart. Back at our days when we stayed at "The Chester," we first watched this cute little heart-warming story in the middle of the hottest and longest summer ever in 2005.

I still remember coming home from work one afternoon to find Lindsay and Kristin sitting on the futon mattress in the living room (we couldn't find a frame, but that's another blog completely) crying their eyes out yelling at me, "We hate you Relacion!"

Anyways, the movie still holds a sentimental place in our hearts and we had nothing better to watch last night, so we popped it in the DVD player and grabbed the two kids (Huggles and Lumpy -- our pseudo-children -- again, another blog completely).

About an hour later, Brett's t-shirt was completely soaked in both my tears and my snot. (Note: He did change his shirt) It's just such a freakin' cute movie and I'm not afraid to admit that I get choked up in it like a little school child who just had their dog run over by a semi-truck.

Well, on the DVD features there's a recipe to make "Rumpledoodles," a little biscuit-like cookie that are a heffalump's favorite. So, I decided to make a batch today for the Lumpster. And...lemme say they're not half bad. I'm going to have to tweak the recipe just a tad because they're a bit oily but for the most part they're a sweet, crispy cookie made with oatmeal, coconut, raisins and molasses.

I guess if anyone wants a rumpledoodle you know where to find me!

Wow, its been a while...

2007-10-18T23:15:00.001-05:00

I haven't had the chance to post on this in such a long time. Maybe I'll try to post on here more or link it somehow to my MySpace blog that already has a bunch of loyal readers...

I'll have more shortly...

Sausage Audio

2006-07-28T17:25:00.000-05:00

So, here's some props from WTMJ host Jessica McBride at my horrible attempt at being a sausage. Click Here:

Why I Went to J-School

2006-05-03T12:13:00.000-05:00

I've spent more than half my life wanting to become a journalist. I think anyone who knows me well can attest that it has been my passion to aspire to be a top-notch writer or reporter or producer or director. As a kid, I would sit in front of the bathroom mirror pretending I was a news reporter on the scene of some breaking news story. When I got older in high school, I would sit on the sidelines of the basketball games with a little tape recorder and do play-by-plays.

Then, I went off to college. I spent four years of my life working at the Journal Sentinel. I took some time to intern at 'KTI and 'TMJ radio in their promotions departments. Then, I went off to Boston. In search of that Master's Degree in Broadcast Journalism. Now, I'm three years out of having my BA from UWM and I still really don't have the "Dream Job" that I would have hoped for. I'm still a semester away from having my Master's. But it would seem that something is holding me back...

I went to journalism school for a reason. But why? I guess deep down I really feel that talented people (and I'll throw some shout-outs here in a minute...) that I have come in contact with after my seven years in two different journalism schools...I think those people really can make a difference if they don't get stuck amid all the crap and muck that's out there.

I know it's hard to make a difference when ratings are always on your back, news directors are hounding you, and what-not. But, I feel that the business can change. There needs to be a dramatic shift in the dynamic. I felt this for awhile and news is going somewhere that it shouldn't, and I don't feel as if I'm the only one who gets this feeling. Case in point: Why else would my extremely talented boyfriend be working as a bank teller instead of sending out tapes? And I'm not just saying that he's talented because he's my boyfriend.

I guess what it all comes down to is passion. Why did the reporters, anchors, writers, photographers, editors, news directors, et. al get into the business to begin with? Why are they still here? Have they lost that passion that brought them into the journalism field? Sometimes I feel that people stay too long in one field and that's why they get bored. They stop loving what they do. They pretend that they love it and fool themselves, but all the while they don't give 100% of themselves.

When I heard yesterday that Mike Gousha was leaving TMJ4 after 25 years there I was shocked. (To read more on his announcement: http://www.todaystmj4.com/_content/tmj4/goushaannounce.asp ) Mike Gousha is a legend in Milwaukee. He's the face of WTMJ. I have spent the past 25 years of my life watching that station because of him. I respect him as a journalist and growing up tried to emulate his success.

His departure of WTMJ is monumental. While they are still keeping Carole Meekins in the other chair and adding Mike Jacobs (another longtime Milwaukee veteran and well-respected journalist), there will be such a dynamic change at the station. I can't help but think what a loss it is.

I can't begin to imagine what his thought-process is or why he's making this life altering decision. Maybe he's lost the passion? Maybe he needs new challenges? Maybe he wants more of a family life? Who knows...

The recent changes at WTMJ have been sudden -- gone are Kevin Hunt, Kimberly Kane, Scott Friedman, Jim Ott...so many talented newsmakers that I grew up with. Just talking with people around town, they're not happy with the changes. The more flashy "Breaking News Now" and "Extreme Slam Jam Alerts" haven't taken off as successfully as I think was perceived.

I just hope that the scene changes, soon and for the better. There are so many talented journalists out there that I have come into contact with -- many who I hope share the same passion for news as I once did and who went to J School for the same reason I did -- to make a difference.

So to Katie, Amber, Amy, Imaeyen, Angela, Rachel, Brett, Melissa, Anthony, Jake, Evan, Alicia, Todd, Tony, Stephanie, Iris, Chuck, George, Will, Jessy, Lindsay, Dave, Dan, Nathan, Mary, Rose, Ryan, Doug, and everyone else with a passion for change in j-schools like UWM, Marquette and Emerson...I hope you guys keep on with your dream to make an impact.

And the reason why I'm still working on this degree, even though it seems that I have lost my passion... I want to go into teaching. I found my passion lies now in teaching young people with dreams of being in journalism about theory and methods. Without good teachers, the future of journalism has nothing to look forward to.

It's that time again...

2006-04-27T11:05:00.000-05:00

...for reunions and weddings!

I have a little under eight weeks (June 24th to be exact) before the Panther Vision Reunion is being held at Miller Park. I wanted to try and lose some weight for this shindig, but in all realism, I think that wish went running out the door (the window, the fire escape, the mouse holes, and maybe even is starting to dig its way out with forks) a long time ago.

Still, I haven't seen a lot of these people from my PVTV class in almost three years. That isn't a long time, I know. But you know how reunions are -- you have to try and be all happy to see people, bring along your significant other, talk about that great job you have, blah blah blah.

Unfortunately, in the back of my head it's more like -- I look fat, I still don't have my Master's Degree, I look fat, I have a great boyfriend but its being overpowered by the fact that I look fat, blah blah blah.

I know, I know. I should just...instead of typing on this stupid thing go run or exercise, start a diet and feel better about myself because I have the eight weeks to lose the weight. I'm sure I will start to do that in the next week or so anyways...It's just you have to kinda go through the grumbling of the whole ordeal anyways because it's a reunion and that's what you do, right?

My other comment...why aren't any of my friends getting married yet? I'm 25 now. This is the time people start to have weddings to go to every weekend of the summer. I haven't been invited to a wedding in five years!! It's not like my friends aren't in great relationships, but why aren't they getting married? (I suppose you could say the same for me, too...)

It's not like we're not planning anything, because we have talked about it. Side note: try and keep like 2010 openish for a fun time in Disney world.

Sorry, just a little rant...Now, I have to go track down some more brunch stuff....Grr!

The Homeless Man by the Freeway

2006-04-20T11:58:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to write about this for awhile...There's this man who stands off of the 68th/70th St. offramp and I-94 Eastbound. He's usually holding one of those signs that says "Will work for food." I'm not going to make some snide comment about the guys sign.

But one day when I was coming home from work and was stopped at the stoplight, there was a minivan stopped in front of me. It was a kinda crappy day out, sorta rainy and gross. The kind of day where I wouldn't stand outside with a sign even if I were poor because you'd probably end up with pneumonia. Anyways, I digress...

So, the van driver opens the window up and hands the man something. It took me a minute to focus on what it was. But do you know what it was???

A milk chug of Nestle Quik...and the strawberry kind! I'm not saying that in a good way, either. That stuff is nasty. Now, if you're trying to be nice to the guy...fine, that's one thing. But, Strawberry Quik? C'mon now...didn't you have some tiny goldfish crackers or a granola bar or something in your car?? I almost wanted to hand the guy the cake I had in my backseat to make up for the Quik, I felt so bad for him.

I remember once when I was in Boston, Imaeyen and myself were waiting for the T and a homeless man came up to us asking for food. We both carried our lunches or snacks with us to school and work. So, she gave him some cereal and I gave him some grapes.

I bet he was glad he didn't get Strawberry Quik!

Fire alarms at 6 a.m.

2006-03-21T12:09:00.000-06:00

Normally, I don't mind funny little quirks that enter your day. But at 6 a.m. when a loud horn starts blaring outside your apartment door...That's a completely different monster.

My problems didn't just start at 6 a.m. At 1:45 I got up to go potty, and the water was turned off. My brother and dad, both perplexed by the fact that we had no water, were also trying to use the facilities. When I was going to go check the laundry room, a sleepy boyfriend chimes in, "There's a sign above the mailboxes that says the city is doing some work," and falls back to sleep.

Thank you for telling us, honey.

So, I go upstairs in my pajamas and slippers to read the note. Yes, in fact the city turned off the water at 10:30 last night and it won't return until "sometime in the morning."

Well, sometime in the morning turned out to be about 6 a.m. When the city turned on the electricity to the water portion of the building, a power surge ensued causing the box that contains the fire alarm to overheat and go off. Thus, leaving us with aforementioned blaring horn noise.

To make matters worse, we couldn't get a hold of the landlord, so we had to call the fire department to get them to come and turn it off.

Meanwhile, during this whole fiasco, I haven't been able to sleep a wink. Very close right before the alarm, but no. Mostly, I was freaking out about my upcoming summer and trying to finish my Master's Project (more on that later).

Finally, I got some sleep once that voodoo-cursed alarm was shut off (THANK YOU FIRE DEPARTMENT!) only to be woken up my editor's phone call at 10 a.m.

And so my day begins......

My New Job

2006-03-21T11:54:00.000-06:00

Well, finally after all the effort of sending countless resumes, interviewing, re-interviewing, peeing into a cup, and filling out those lovely W-2s...I am now officially a producer.

What you say? You're a producer?

Yes I am.

I'm now currently working part-time (like most good producers do) for Wisconsin's news and sports leader -- AM 620 WTMJ (you can listen by clicking here). While, I'm still training for a good part of the next few weeks, when I'm finally done with the teaching phase, I will be producing a few shows a weeks (Thursdays from 6 p.m. to midnight and Sunday from 6 a.m. to noon) plus producing agency commercials for the station.

Ahh...no more Cold Stone...

But in a funny turn of events, my brother has applied for the Waukesha store's manager position and there will soon be a need for a new manager in Oak Creek. Stay tuned for more info has it happens.

Searching the World for a New Job

2006-02-09T13:32:00.000-06:00

Why is it so difficult to find the ideal job? I've gone on like three or four interviews in the past few weeks and I still haven't found anything that I truly think I'd want to stay doing for a long time.

I guess I'm asking for too much when I want a position that allows me to travel and cook and write and still go to school and not be bored all the time. C'mon, that position has to exist somewhere. It just has to.

Yea, I dunno. Who knows if I'll ever find a job that I really will ever love. Does anyone really love their job? I'm really beginning to wonder that question. It's like sometimes you just have to take something just because you need the money. Maybe that's just where I'm at right now. I just don't want to be stuck at this point forever, y'know?

I wish the perfect job would just come flying out of the sky and say, "Pick me! You're perfect for the position!" But it hasn't yet.

Ahh...back to the job boards...

My Daniel Radcliffe Obsession

2006-02-09T13:27:00.000-06:00

Ok, so since I've started watching these Harry Potter films...that Daniel Radcliffe kid is pretty hot.

I know. I know.

I'm 25. That's so not right to think a 14-year-old is hot. But he really is an attractive kid. I just spent twenty minutes on Daniel Radcliffe fan sites. How strange is that? Am I like a wide-eye middle schooler again?

Oh well...Just think Demi got Ashton and no one thinks that weird or nothin...

Recap of the last six months...

2006-01-09T22:58:00.000-06:00

Well, it hasn't exactly been six months, but pretty darn close. And, because I love to use bullet points, that's what you're getting. So here goes --

Moved back to Milwaukee with Brett in tow around Labor Day weekend
Subsequently, moved into a teeny, tiny two bedroom apartment with Brett, my brother and my Dad
Started working at Cold Stone where they promised me my own store sometime in January up in Menomonee Falls
Started freelancing for MKE. See www.mkeonline.com Just search for my name and you can find a few of my articles. (The Harry Potter one is the best!)
Brett started working for CompUSA
My brother started working for The Discovery Channel Store
Brett quit CompUSA
The Discovery Channel Store let my brother go because they didn't need help after Christmas
Brett started working at Chase Bank after New Year's
Cold Stone says they can't open my store up because of budget concerns
I'm looking for a new job (I interviewed for a newscaster job at AM 620, so waiting to hear back on that)
My dad's going to the Philippines for awhile and won't be back till March
I still want an I-Pod
Brett applied for a few jobs here in Milwaukee doing sports at TMJ4 and Fox 6.
Did I tell you I'm working for $8 an hour at Cold Stone and I'm not getting my store? Yea, I'm kinda dwelling on that. Because it sucks!

So, that's pretty much the last few months since we moved back here from Boston. Yes, Milwaukee is a completely different animal than Boston. But it is home for me. I really do miss the city a lot, though. It's funny. I didn't really think I would. But, I do. I guess it meant a lot more to me than I really thought it would. I just miss walking everywhere.

Hearing the noises. That really gets me. It's like Milwaukee isn't a small city by any means. But it's so quiet compared to Boston. Boston was just...there was like a hum to it and it constantly was there. You could always hear something. Be it the guy peeing under my windowsill late at night or the T running a few blocks away. There was always some sort of noise. I miss that. I don't miss the smell, though. There was that weird smell to the city sometimes.

Plus, I've gotten wicked fat out here. Not walking and driving everywhere has made me put on some serious weight. I just can't get rid of it. And I'm trying everything. It's almost impossible. Another reason why I just need to get away from Cold Stone. Damn hell hole.

So, yea. It's good. I miss the city, but at least I have Brett with me. That means a lot just to have him here with me. He's the bestest boyfriend in the world, but you know that already. I just liking saying it outloud because I'm so lucky to have him. :)

Only 10 days left...

2005-08-19T13:36:00.000-05:00

This is so sad. I'm sitting, trying to pack up everything in this apartment of mine today. Ok, I'm really not working all that hard on it because I'm so frustrated, but still, that's not the point.

The point is how sad this is. Trying to pack up and move my life -- again.

Wasn't I just doing this last summer with our house? Now, I have to do this with my apartment to move into an even small apartment. Eeesh.

I've come to a couple conclusions today:

1) I'm not a good packer

2) I have less stuff than when I started

3) Even though I have less than I started with, I don't know where to put it all

4) Packing sucks when you're not a spatially conceptual person

5) Moving is like the bane of my existence (even more than Samantha Brown on "Great Hotels")

So, anyways...I finally gave up and I'm sitting here. I just ate some sushi. Cleaned the bathrooms. And swiffered half of the kitchen.

I feel rather spent actually considering I only got about five hours of sleep last night. Don't you just love stress-induced insomnia?

Shirts say the world...

2005-08-10T08:36:00.000-05:00

So, I was walking home from the Prudential Center to the Hynes Convention Center T stop last night when I saw the best shirt on this kid standing outside the fire department on Boylston St.

"Your village called, they're missing their idiot."

I couldn't help but smile as I was walking up the street. Not even the L. Ron Hubbard creepy scientologists giving out stress tests on Mass Ave. could make me stop smiling. I think they might have been slightly creeped out by the cheerfulness in my "no thank you" as they tried to give me a complimentary L. Ron Hubbard book.

Sorry, but this kid isn't converting to the religion also known as You-Turned-Tom-Cruise-Crazy-and-Now-We-Must-Save-Katie-Holmes-Because-of-You-Loopy-Lemmings.

It's been a while...

2005-08-10T08:31:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know it has been an unusually long time since I have written in this creepy, yet somehow interesting manifesto that I call my life. Partially due to the fact that I don't have a computer of my own with internet access. Former roommates -- don't you love it when they just take modems out of your bedroom and then move out? I know I do.

Actually, after this weekend, I will have this lovely (totally sarcastic there) apartment all to myself. Lindsay's moving out this weekend. Well, there is the subletter, Kori, but she really isn't here all that much, so for the sake of saying that I have this place to myself, I have the place to myself.

I guess I've just been busy working lately. Getting ready to move outta this place in a few weeks. I can't believe I'm only down to a few weeks left and then its back to Milwaukee. I am slightly saddened by this. I can't say that I haven't loved Boston. Because it has been an incredible experience for me over the past two years. Really, it has. As much as I complain about the crappy T, stupid Emerson, and even the crummy weather...it still has been my home for two years.

I guess most of all I'm going to miss all the people who I have met over the past two years from school and all the great kids at Cold Stone. It'll be weird not seeing their faces everyday anymore, y'know?

But things change and this is the next change in my life.

Brett is moving back to Milwaukee with me...eventually. We're going to try and find an apartment and talk with dad about everything (he moved back from San Diego -- LONG story). All in all...we're starting a new life together.

And I'm totally cool with that.

Happy Belated Bunny Day!

2005-03-28T19:03:00.000-06:00

So, I had a pretty great weekend. I guess anything that involves eating a massive amount of meat, a great night out with friends, and an Easter egg hunt has to be pretty darn good.

We ended up going to this place over by BC called Eagle's Deli. They specialize in these massive burgers from a pound up to five-pounds. The guys wanted to see who could actually gorge themselves into oblivion by eating the three or the five pounder. But the counter dude gave us wicked attitude over ordering something that big so they just ate the one-pounders. Which nonetheless was a shit-load of meat.

Afterwards, we ended up going to Big City (I was actually about to say Axel's for some odd reason...hmm...wonder what I'm thinking about). We hung out and played some pool and watched the Illinois vs. Arizona game.

Then, after that me and Brett came back to my place. I had set-up the house for a special Easter Egg Hunt for him. It's probably one of the most creative things I have ever done for someone...and for once it actually went over well. I put cute little things in the eggs that he could redeem like I'll watch Lord of the Rings with him or make him dinner, etc. I'm psyched because now he can start redeeming the things. It's really cute and I think he really enjoyed it. I just love how he gets all excited when he sees me and just his huge smile. He's so adorable.

So, I'm glad we had a good weekend. :)

Isn't It Sweet?

2005-03-21T20:07:00.000-06:00

UWM is going to the Sweet 16!! Woo-Hoo!! I'm so psyched. I love March Madness. It's like the three or four weeks of the year that I just totally love. And to think...my undergrad university's basketball team has now made it to the elite field of 65 teams, down to 32, now down to 16.

Albeit, that have to take on Illinois in their regional in Chicago, but I think it will be a close game. Sure, Illinois has been ranked the #1 team in the nation and has some crazy 20 straight game winning streak or whatever the hell they did this year. I know it's a lot to wish for...but it would be sweet to see the Panthers make it to the elite 8.

GO PANTHERS!!

SPRING BREAK!

2005-03-06T14:49:00.000-06:00

Woo-Hoo! It's spring break! I'd flash my boobs, but what's the fun in that?!?

So, I'm spending the first half of my break working, working, and working. Ok, I'm also trying to get rid of this virus and inner ear infection that I have that's causing me to get really bad cases of vertigo. Yea, not fun. I've just spent the past 18 hours sleeping. No lie. No one's at home, so I figured I'd take this lovely opportunity to become one with my bed. I don't think I've gone to bed at 6:30 since I was in like first grade.

Brett's in Florida 'til Wednesday night covering spring training. So, I don't have him to bug. When he comes back we're going up to Vermont for a nice, long weekend. I get to meet his sister, Cory. She's home on break from Ohio.

Oooh...Brett told me he loved me. How sweet! I'm so psyched! I'm just so in love with him, too. As scared as I am about the next few months, I think we'll figure something out to make it work -- at least I really hope we do (that is, when we finally have this long-awaited talk we've been putting off).

It's just going to be fairly tough, I think with him graduating and getting a job. Plus, I'm probably going to moving home at the end of the summer. I think I've decided to take a leave of absence for a semester or two and just work a little while to catch up financially. I just don't have the means to move across town into a new place right now...not to mention I don't have the energy, patience, or manpower to do it. I just think right now that that's the best option for me.

Brett needs a place to live after the end of next month. I don't know if that's going to play any part in anything. Imaeyen and Melissa are subletting so if he wants to move in, he can. I just don't know how he feels about moving in with me. Bill and Todd were nice enough to offer him a place to stay, too.

It's just been really hard the past few weeks. I'm so scared that this is all going to go away, so I'd rather not even have the conversation, y'know? I'd just kinda like to avoid the whole thing. I've been so happy with him the past couple of months. It's been absolutely amazing. I really do love him. I just don't think I should be a factor at all in his future plans, though. He shouldn't have to worry about a girlfriend right now. He has the rest of his life for that. I dunno. I'm just really nervous about the whole thing.

I want to promise him the world. But I can't even promise him a month from now. I really wish I could try, though. I've never felt like this before. It's like we always talked about doing all these things together and I just want the chance to do them. I want to ride the ferris wheel at Navy Pier with him. I want him to meet my family. I want to be the one to take him to California for the first time. I just want the chance.

Long Time No Post...

2005-02-13T21:55:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I realize it has been almost two months since I really last blogged. It really is such a blur. A lot has happened.

The quick recap:

Graduating next December because I couldn't find a chair for my thesis topic

Went back to Milwaukee for two weeks

My dad moved to San Diego

My brother George is in the hospital for some weird skin infection

Me and Brett are officially a couple...YAY!

Went to DC to cover the inauguration

Went to Vermont to meet Brett's family

I got promoted to Asst. Manager at Cold Stone...LOL

Did I mention me and Brett are officially a couple?

I'm now 24 and hitting my quarterlife crisis

I'm producing a class documentary on Chinatown...shoot me, please

I'm interning at "Frontline" for WGBH

Yea, it's been a blur. Yet so crazily amazing...much in part to Brett. Yea, I don't know. It's not like we expected this to happen. But it is so amazing and we're both so happy.

The week I spent in Vermont...As worried and scared as I was, I really enjoyed my time up there. For one, it was so incredibly relaxing and beautiful. This gorgeous house overlooking a valley...how can that not be beautiful? And just having the chance to meet his family and see this other part of his life...It's like...He's letting me into his life and wants me to be a part of it. I guess I just didn't have that before.

He makes me feel so unbelievably special. I just can't get enough of him. I guess I've never really longed for someone before, but when we're not together, I just crave him so much. Like its so hard to not see him with our busy schedules. I want him to be the first person I see in the morning, or the last voice I hear at night, y'know? I get this funny tingle down my spine when he holds my hand as we walk down the street. I get tongue-tied when we're alone together and its just so hard to find the right words to express just how much he means to me.

It's kinda like that.

As for the rest of it...I'm still pretty busy. Work, work, work. While I only really have one technical class per week, I seem to always be at school. Otherwise, I have my internship over at Frontline, which is pretty cool. I'm working in the post-production department. This past week I got to help with a re-edit of a Donald Rumsfeld profile. Kinda cool.

This documentary on Chinatown is probably going to kill me. One, because I just don't have the time I need to dedicate to being as good of a producer as I know I probably can be. Two, I just don't have people who want to work hard on it. Little thing called senior-itis, I guess.

Dad moved to San Diego a few weeks ago. He's actually leaving for the Philippines tomorrow morning, so I really won't talk to him for another month or so when he's back. I wanted to go out to SD for spring break, but I just don't think I'll have the money for it. Hopefully, I'll have the time this summer to go there and Milwaukee...and bring Brett with me, so he has the chance to meet my crazy family now.

Ahh, so much going on...Ok, hopefully I'll be better with posting again... sigh...

Cereal Day or Night

2004-12-02T07:43:00.000-06:00

This is such an awesome concept... check out Cereality's website at www.cereality.com

I don't know why I haven't thought of this -- ok, I probably have, but I just haven't acted upon my business ventures. I can't wait to visit the store in Chicago, or perhaps, I'm just crazy enough for a roadtrip to Philly to eat cereal.

And honestly, you know I would do it, too. Does anyone remember the pilgrimage to Chicago just for Superdawg? Well hell...that was gosh-darn awesome hot dog. This must be really good cereal.

Wow, this just totally set the tone for my day...I'm psyched!

No Silly Title

2004-11-28T21:26:00.000-06:00

I just want a cherry Slurpee right now...Yea, random. I know.

Chris's Life Lesson #3

2004-11-01T09:12:00.000-06:00

Chris's Life Lesson #3

Part I. Don't think because you want to impress the guy you like, means that you can handle drinking Wild Turkey shots.

Part II. And don't swish it around in your mouth first.

Your stomach will not like you the next day, or even two days later. There's a strong burning sensation and, really, burning is not fun.

It's better to impress that person you like with your wit, intellect, and fun smile. Not by trying to drink them under the table. Not that I even could come close.

But, I do have to admit that I do have a lot of fun even if he's trying to pick drinks for me that will make me nauseous twenty minutes later.

I'm too smitten...

It's Not Easy Being Shy

2004-10-31T21:05:00.000-06:00

Apparently, it's a character flaw for one to be shy. Ok, maybe not a character flaw per se, but at least some sort of flaw, or possibly hinderance is a better word.

Ah, well...Who knows I could've made out with a boy last night if only I had more guts. Instead, I'm putting a lot of faith into him to make a move.

Still, last night was fun...especially that part where we were holding hands. {Insert big, glowing grin here}

Yea, well...Someone is supposed to call me tonight when they're done with a midterm and if they want to hang out. And honestly, I'm just tired. I'm going to take a nap...

I Have a Show!

2004-10-29T00:11:00.000-05:00

YAY!

Dear Sally...

2004-10-26T22:37:00.000-05:00

I guess when your heart gets broken, you sort of start to see the cracks in everything. I'm convinced that tragedy wants to harden us, and that our mission is to never let it.

--Sally Reardon (Janeane Garafolo), "Felicity" (1998)

It's Been a Few...

2004-10-26T00:05:00.000-05:00

It certainly has been a few days since I last wrote. So, in a nutshell...It hasn't been a good 72-96 some hours. It's actually been quite painful. It is so hard watching people that I care about hurt so, so much by the events that have been happening. I just want to reach out to them and let them know that I'm there for them -- one person in particular.

God, it just isn't fair.

Why? It doesn't make sense. I know some things never will make sense, but this just isn't fair. Why her? Why now? I wish I could take all the pain away from everyone who is hurting right now...but, I can't. It is so hard to watch them trying so hard, and working so feverishly to the point of exhaustion.

I am honestly very, very worried about their health and their sanity. I don't know what to do. It's breaking me up inside because I want to say something, but I don't know if it's my place to say something, y'know?

It's like I care so much for this person and I can't even tell him. I don't even know how -- or when -- he started to mean so much to me. And honestly, I don't want to mistake the feelings that I'm having right now from friendship or into something else...because I just don't know what they are. I am so confused. I'm trying to be there, but then at the same time, I know (and I feel) that I'm pulling away. I'm trying to run again. And I'm scared.

I see things on his face that I've seen on another face. They're things that scared me three years ago and made me run then. I'm sick of running. But at the same time...this wasn't in my plan. I don't need this stress and the added pressure and drama. I just want to be. I just can't stop thinking about him, though, and I guess that means something...somewhere. I just don't know what.

I'm so afraid I'm falling for him. I can't believe I just said that. How can I possible be falling for someone who I have yet to even go on a date with? That isnt' possible, is it? I am so scared by the feelings that I am having.

I just want to run again...

Hmm...Part Deux

2004-10-20T00:19:00.000-05:00

I think I have a quasi-date on Friday. I don't exactly know how, but I think...somehow...said boy finally asked me out. It's actually quite a blur at the moment (it also happened like six hours ago before a huge game six).

But yea...He asked me to go out on Friday night after we got done with some stuff at school. I have no idea what that really entails. I'm so super nervous right now. I can't imagine how this is going to be on Friday.

I've been waiting how long for him to ask me out? I've been waiting patiently every time he couldn't go somewhere, or I couldn't go somewhere...and now...it's actually...it might seriously actually happen?

What does one do?

I am so nervous...I don't want to act like an idiot in front of him. My, my...It's all that I wanted...to hang out with him... alone ...for one night...and now it's happening.

Please...just let this go right...

Silly Bear...

2004-10-19T10:04:00.000-05:00

Late-night phone calls to tell me the Sox are back in the game...

DILUSIONAL

Alas, you're cute anyways...

Weekend Update

2004-10-18T16:15:00.000-05:00

Yah, so...this weekend didn't go exactly as planned. Really, when does it ever, though? I guess I put to much emphasis on some things to happen (that obviously didn't happen), which resulted in me totally getting let down. Which again, am I really that surprised?

Shout out request from someone to themselves: "Hey Angela!"

Anywhoooo....Yeah, this weekend...very perplexing.

OK...so news of the moment: Apparently, I have to keep Friday open. I don't know. I'm again, very perplexed. I think I'm going to go think or something productive...

Peace out, kidses

More perplexion

2004-10-16T08:37:00.000-05:00

Is perplexion even a word? It rhymes with complexion, though, if that's any consolation.

Anyways...

Yea, talking about sports till 1:30 in the morning with aforementioned boy. That was interesting. At least I got him talking for an hour, I guess.

It's like I had the perfect opportunity to tell him what I've been feeling, but I totally blew that chance. Like he asked me if I was mad yesterday (I was acting really pissy after the sports show and totally ignored him, didn't say goodbye-type thing), and instead of telling him that I'm frustrated and that I get speechless around him...I just choked.

As usual...

I get to see him today at the double-header soccer game. I'm a "tv consultant" for the athletic department and he's doing play-by-play. Fun, fun, fun. I'm hoping since the Sox are playing the Yanks tonight, and he has his apartment all to himself this weekend, that he'll invite me over to watch the game with him...

Hmm, is that too much wishful thinking?

My head hurts...

2004-10-15T00:29:00.000-05:00

I think two pitchers of sangria is my limit. Wow. I'm fuzzy. I don't really know what just happened. Good feeling, but fuzzy. And really, I have to go potty again. Ok, so I sound like a two-year-old with an irritable bladder, but still...it was good sangria.

And after the hellish sort of day that I just had. It was well worth it all.

Wow. What a day. My head is spinning...and I can say that on multiple levels, honestly. Figuratively and physically, my head is spinning.

Why are guys so perplexing? Can someone please explain that to me? Why are they so wicked cute in their little suits when they're dressed up and crap? Ugh. Why do they have this way of drawing me back in just when I think I'm OK without them?

Why do they have this way of making me feel better when I'm feeling kinda down? Ugh. How do they do all of these things without even knowing it, y'know? Honestly, it must be something they pull them away in shop class to learn.

"Here, Tommy...Today, instead of learning how to solder this piece of metal to make your bookshelf, we're going to teach you how to reel a woman in with your boyish good looks and chivalrous charm."

Yea, that day I apparently missed in Mr. Sheeley's tech ed class...

Does anyone know a carpenter?

2004-10-13T23:40:00.000-05:00

Ok, does someone know how to get rid of a fence? Really, I'm not into this whole concept of "fence-sitting." Honestly, it isn't working for me. C'mon...you either "do" or you "don't." There really can be no in between, and if there's an "in between," let's just be decisive, please.

I dunno...

What the hell happened today? Why do I have to hear about some chain-smoking girl with some sort of STD (well, not really, but that's how she came across in the description) who's all over him? I don't need to hear that. It's really juvenile. If you're trying to make me jealous that other girls are all over you...Yea, it worked. I'm jealous.

But, what do you want me to do?

I'm not going to fawn all over you. I'm not going to start feeling you up in the middle of your apartment. I'm not going to do a lot of things. That just isn't me.

Plus, why would I? I don't have any indication that you feel something -- anything -- for me. But, yes...I am jealous. It makes me seethe to know that other girls are getting to feel your leg up, or whatever is going down on that couch. I want to be the girl who's all over you on your couch. I don't need some image roaming around my head about some other girl. Yea, it helped to hear that you were annoyed by it, but...Ugh. This is just so frustrating.

I don't know what I have to do different. I don't want to do anything different. I just want to be me. I want him to like me for me. I'm not going to change for a guy. I've never been that kind of girl and I'm not about to start that now. I just...I have this knack for picking the shyest guys in the world who don't know how to outright say things. And honestly, I'm not going to outright say how I feel...I just can't do it yet.

If you read this...then yes, you have seen how I really feel. But, I'm just not ready to say it outloud yet. I want to. I honestly wish I could. I just want it to be in person. But we never have that chance together. I want to ask you out. I want to tell you that I want to spend more time with you to get to know you better. I want to tell you...I want to tell you so much. I just can't. I am so utterly scared by how I am feeling right now and by how much I don't want my feelings that I have to jeopardize whatever we do have now.

I see you all the time and you think it would get easier. It doesn't. I'm finding that every time I see you, it's getting harder and harder to be around you. It's more and more nerve-wracking. More frustrating. My heart beats faster and faster and the thoughts just disappear from my head and I turn into a babbling idiot.

I wish there were a way to say that all...A part of me wishes that you would see this...

Go Yankers!

2004-10-12T23:02:00.000-05:00

I'm a winner, and as such, I only root for winners.

Yankees take series 1-0 over Red Sox.

Next game: tomorrow................

What is persistence?

2004-10-12T23:01:00.000-05:00

Random question of the day: What is the definition of persistence?

I wish I knew because apparently that's what I need to be. Well, that's if I listen to someone close to you-know-who. I dunno. I don't know what to even believe anymore, or what I should be doing vs. how I'm doing it. I just...I just want things to work out. I want something to happen.

Everytime that I convince myself I don't need said boy, someone comes back and tells me that I need to continue pursuing him because he's on some fence, or because they think I can win him over, or some bull sh*t to that extent.

It's like they lure me back in to think that I really can win him over. But, every time I try to be "persistent," I feel like I'm just being annoying, or coming across as needy and desperate -- which I most definitely am not.

I genuinely like this person. I do want something to come from our friendship, y'know. There's something there...sure. I just don't know what to do about it. If I should do anything at all, y'know? He makes me smile and has this way of making my day seem that much brighter when it sucks or something like that.

It's all so juvenile. I wish I could just slip him a note under the table that says "check 'yes' or 'no' if you like me." But, for some reason I don't think that would fly. It didn't work with me in sixth grade.

I can't give up on this since I do feel so strongly for him, but at the same time...how can I trust what someone else has been saying about him, when it hasn't been him who's necessarily been saying it?

I know what I want now...

2004-10-11T00:17:00.000-05:00

A CUDDLE BUDDY!!!

Yes, you heard it right, kids. I want a cuddle buddy. Someone who I can text message and be all like, "Cuddle?"

That's not being too whore-ish, is it?

How did I come to this realization? Well, we were talking about the aforementioned "cuddle buddies" at work today. And I thought, "Hey, that's just a pretty dang good idea." There's no real commitment. No heavy duty relationship. Just someone to cuddle with on those long, cold, lonely New England nights (that, of course will be coming in due force soon). So yes...I want a cuddle buddy.

I'm just unsure of how to go about asking said boy if he wants to be the designated cuddle buddy.

Drunk Dial Update

2004-10-10T01:05:00.000-05:00

Remember how I drunk-dialed someone the other night? Hmm. Yea, I still don't really know the outcome of that. Well, I do...but, hmm.

Why are there always more questions? Can't I just get a yes or no...or just something resembling...anything, I guess.

So, yea...I think he actually said to me on Thursday (when I saw him) that I only call him when I'm drunk. Not exactly true, but fairly.

The answer why: I get way too nervous in person or when I'm sober. I can't talk to him otherwise. It is so absurd. I get tongue-tied and nothing comes out right. Not that when I'm drunk things come out right, but at least something comes out, I guess.

How did I let things get this way? I am so into this guy and I'm just setting myself up for the hugest letdown in the world. What do I really think is going to come from this anyways?

I don't want a relationship right now. I don't think he does. We're both graduating in, let's see here...oh, like seven months. We have no idea where the @#$% we'll be after that. I'm a complete mess when it comes to relationships. Not to mention I'm afraid of intimacy.

Plus, he's a normal (or seems to be normal), college-aged guy. How does that work with me? I can't put another guy through what I am, and how I act (or lack of act). It isn't fair, I know. But, I am so afraid of letting people in. It's like I wish I could just say to him, "Hey, let's have some fun. No expectations. Nothing after graduation. Just whenever we feel like it." But I can't. That isn't me and that probably will never be me.

What on Earth could I possibly want from this guy?

You know, if I knew that answer...I'd be the richest person in the world. Maybe I am just lonely. Maybe I just need to make-out with someone. Maybe I just want a friend. I DON'T KNOW. All I know is that every time I am with him...I'm smiling on the inside. I'm happy. And everytime I don't see him, or don't hear from him, I'm waiting anxiously for the next time I will see him.

I don't know how that happened and I don't know if he remotely feels the same.

I am so afraid to risk the friendship that we do have (mainly because of my last experience with trying to have a friend turn into "more than friends"). But, it's like I want to risk it. I just want to know how he feels. I am so afraid to make the first move. I know mutual friends have said that he's just clueless and needs me to make that first move, but I don't know if I can, y'know? I don't want to feel like an idiot. What if this is only some stupid crush? But then, what if it isn't...

Highlight Fun

2004-10-10T00:44:00.000-05:00

Ok, remember back in the day when I wanted to be the next Suzy Kolber on ESPN? Yea, that was a LONG time ago. Proby back in high school when I was still covering basketball games for West Side Stories . Yes, that long ago. I don't think I've really had an inkling since about then to even be on-air. But for a few brief moments on Friday, I really wanted to be an on-air personality again.

Who would've thought that doing 7 minutes of Boston Red Sox highlights would have me wanting to be a sports anchor again?

Well, the dream is short-lived, but it was most definitely fun and enjoyable. I can't say that I want to do highlights for a living (by any means). It was just cool to live that lifelong dream (or whatever you want to call it) of actually -- almost -- really being on ESPN.

I can't say that I won't ever do highlights again...I wonder what the chances of me taking over WEBN Sports is???

Axel's Revisited

2004-10-07T09:21:00.000-05:00

So, it's been over a year since I last hit Axel's on Oakland back in Milwaukee. Remember those days with Katie #3, Amber, Kevin, and Chris? Nights after closing the TV lab down, before the PVTV shows, and getting unnecessarily sloshed?

Those were the days...

How can I forget some of those nights? The ones where we'd end up back at Johnston Hall, roaming the floors, trying to find a ghost (which turned out to be KC under a stairway). Or, the nights where I couldn't even drive home and ended up on someone's couch? Or, just sitting and talking about absolutely nothing and trying to see how many times Rick Springfield's "Jesse's Girl" could play in a row on the jukebox.

Yes, I've been trying to recapture those days for a long time...

And, I think last night was the first time that I have reasonably even come close since being in Boston. I don't think I have been that utterly wasted (for no good reason) since UWM (and that may be a good thing).

But, it started out innocently enough at the White Horse with a Miller and some pool. But once the party migrated to Big City and the shots and pitchers of sangria started coming -- all bets were off.

Thanks to Lins for taking my glass away from me...but, really...I totally would've drunk that whole glass of sangria-fruity goodness. Unfortunately, that outcome would not have been pretty. And really, the one that did end up following was amusing, but not my best moment.

It's always great when you drunk-dial someone who you like, is it not? Yea, I'm not quite sure what I said in his voicemail, but I'll find out in a few hours, I guess. Otherwise, it's not good when you find yourself sitting on your bathroom floor. But, that is a first for me.

Hmm...Good times...

Stressed!

2004-10-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

Dear Blog Reader:

Christina is losing it momentarily. She has to produce two 1:45 play-by-play segments of games one and two of the Sox vs. Angels series by Friday.

Tough task?

Well, yes. Since a) she is not a Sox fan b) has never done shot sheets before and c) doesn't have a VCR to tape game 2.

Thanks to Brett...at least I have game two slightly covered for highlight purposes. But, he has a midnight bedtime and the game won't be done by that time. I owe him BIG time for helping me out with this. And now I know why it makes sense that I'm friends with the sports director, eh?

Alas, I'm still losing it because I'm freaked out about my practicum show, too. If anyone cares to help shoot some video or knows anything about graphics, please see me ASAP. You will be compensated.

Sincerely,

Management

Stood Up

2004-10-03T00:25:00.000-05:00

Yup. My luck. Now, I'm listening to Britney Spears....Thanks a lot.....