Tue., Jan 8/13

Wow! The temp is 10 degrees above normal – it will be in the low 80’s for the next week. The Orlando area has not had any freezing weather yet.

LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) were off shopping with another visit to Legoland. Previously they were out of wheels and axles – this time they picked up a huge container and more kits. Another stop for LNM was a flea market. The destination for Charlotte and I was Universal Studios.

The theme parks are so motivated to make money they divide the parks into sections and charge for “park hopping”. The parks don’t even list a single day ticket. When we requested a single day they spent a few minutes trying to convince us to get a multi-day pass.  To lessen waits, they also charge extra for passes give you, in a sense, the right to skip into lines. This is a handicapped for large families who saved all year just to get here.

Our first stop was Cinnabon for our breakfast treat – a huge pecan covered bunch of sweetness ….mmmmm good!

Our reason for coming, since we had been to Universal here (and in California) several times before, was to visit the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction. Of course, it was at the extreme end of the park, so we set off making it our first attraction destination.

Of course, all the popular attractions have long waiting times. We waited a half hour for the 10 minute wizard’s demonstration in Ollivander’s Wand Shop before entering Dervish and Banges where Charlotte found a wand. Naturally, as they say, the wand picks the wizard. Charlotte was picked by the Luna Lovegood (Brown Box) wand.

We are past the roller coaster riding time of life. We asked if we could tour Hogwarts (castle) without going on the ride (hanging roller coaster). We were pointed towards a parallel line entrance. Actually, this is a good option for all. The ride line moves continuously and does not really give enough time to enjoy each exhibit along the way. If you want the ride, I suggest do the walk-thru first where you can stop and enjoy the exhibits then go to the ride line later.

All that walking worked up a thirst – time for a Butterbeer! The lines at the cart closer to Hogwarts is shorter than those at the first cart as you enter the Harry Potter section of the park. There are 2 versions – regular and frozen. We opted for the frozen – delicious. The butterscotch flavoured beverage was an excellent refresher.

As we worked our way back to the front of the park we stopped to take in Poseidon’s Fury which is a special effects guided tour of his “ancient temple”. Charlotte enjoyed the effects – even though we were in the front row and could feel the heat of the flames and were splashed (a little) several times.

It was now mid-afternoon and the Cinnabons had worn off. We spotted the Mythos (Grotto of the Gods) Restaurant. In keeping with the ancient island theme of the Lost Continent the restaurant in a water-worn grotto carved out of the rock. The sinuous walls give the impression they were carved by the subterranean streams that flow throughout the restaurant. 

The large, flowing pillars are shaped like gods and goddesses. 

The regal purple decor is lavish (and really heavy). I could hardly push Charlotte's chair in as I assisted her in seating at the table. The chair metal almost appears to be pewter. I was surprised to hear the hostess say; "I haven't seen that for quite a while".

This is a full service restaurant that has received the Top Restaurant Award for Theme Parks (Worldwide) for the past 6 years in a row. It was a treat. The restaurant features seasonally available items on their menu. 

Everything is prepared to order – fast food it ain’t!

We arrived during the Festival of Mushrooms. Charlotte enjoyed Blue Crab and Mushroom Sliders which were pan sautéed and served on mini-rolls with lettuce and remoulade sauce, accompanied by potato salad and a watermelon-tomato medley (which was excellent).

My entrée was Wild Mushroom Meatloaf which was a combination of beef, pork and wild mushrooms, roasted garlic, caramelized onions and ricotta cheese served with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, Jack Daniels gravy and Tabasco onion rings. This was also excellent. With the park having early closing hours this restaurant was only open from 11 am to 4 pm today. On exit we found other folks were disappointed to find it closed.

This was a nice change from all the fast food usually available in theme parks. The interior grotto décor, great service and excellent food was a welcomed and relaxing break from the hustle-bustle of the park.

As we continued towards the park exit our next stop was Seuss Landing.  At last a ride we could enjoy: “The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride”. 

We really enjoyed the leisurely ride as the trolley train wound its way around (and above) Seuss Landing. The highly stylized and colourful buildings and rides in this area were a treat for the eyes.

We then continued towards the Port of Entry (in this case, Exit) with a stop on the bridge to watch the twists and turns of the Incredible Hulk Coaster ride. It sounded like all on the ride were exercising their lungs to capacity as the ride “screamed” by our vantage point.

Park closing was 7 pm today. Our exit at 6 pm, although busy, avoided the rush. It only took about 20 minutes to arrive back at the RV. LNM were already at the RV when we returned. Later in the evening, Lynda, one of our travelling RV buddies who came to Florida in our “convoy” came for a visit from her site elsewhere in Fort Wilderness. Liz made Natchos and popcorn for a treat as we chatted outside. We also enjoyed seeing the larger fireworks that were going off at the Magic Kingdom.

Another fun day way had by all.

Note: The next blog may not be for a day or two. LNM will be leaving for the trek back to the cold at 4 am on Thursday. This blog will go out Wednesday as we leave Fort Wilderness to return to the KOA in Apopka, FL to pick up our motorhome. We will leave from there for our long term stay at the Clermont RV and Gold Resort.

Mon., Jan 7/13

This morning I left with Nick to bring his new R/C (Remote Control) Truck back to Graves R/C Hobbies in Orlando, FL where it was purchased. Nick could not get it to work.

This is a huge store with a great selection of planes, helicopters, car, trucks and boats as well as parts to service everything.

The salesperson remembered Nick and soon set about checking out his R/C truck.

In a few moments it was running. Apparently there is a control to protect Lithium Ion batteries from totally discharging completely. It had to be shut off when using regular rechargeables. The salesperson showed how to program this and to make other adjustments to the unit. Good service is always a bonus.

Our next mission was to find a rechargeable battery for Marty’s R/C car. We tried everywhere from Walmart to Radio Shack to a battery specialty shop – no luck on that mission.

When we returned to the RV a note told us that Charlotte, Liz and Marty had headed to the Meadows and the Settlement stores – both in the Fort Wilderness campground. They walked to both and Marty rollerbladed. They returned by bus and saw Nick who had gone out on his bike to see if he could find them. Nick returned a few minutes after they arrived back at the RV.

Sandwiches for lunch. Liz did some laundry. Even the squirrels got fed (acorns) that Liz picked up around the campground then put out for the squirrels near our site.

This was a good day to recharge our batteries as well. Cloudy and cool. I had an afternoon nap.

Nick made hot dogs on the BBQ for supper (Charlotte and I) and LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) had one to hold them over until they had supper later in the evening at Medieval  We had seen this show a number of times and passed on the offer to join them. Instead we headed to the beach at the settlement to watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom.

As we left the bus at the transportation stop a lovely couple offered us a ride on their golf cart to the boat launch. They suggested we go over to the Magic Kingdom and watch from the transportation center – which we did. We enjoyed their company on the boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom. Their friendly generosity and conversation made our day.

We actually enjoyed a better view of the fireworks from the entrance than when we saw them from within the park a few days ago. We were on the first launch back to Frontierland and soon were back at the RV. LNM arrived not to long after. They had a fun time at Medieval Times. Marty returned with a broad axe and shield as souvenirs.

A little TV and soon it was bed after another enjoyable day at WDW (Walt Disney World).

Sun., Jan 6/13

Liz made a pancake breakfast for all after we had showered. A yummy way to start the day.

LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) put on their bathing suits and headed for Typhoon Lagoon.

I took the "Yellow" Bus to use the Wi-Fi at the check-in office.

First I did business by catching up on the banking - Whew! We still have money!

Then I did the blog for Friday and Saturday. I also started today's blog (Sunday); but won't publish it until later after the day's activities are complete.

I returned on the Yellow bus to return the computer to the RV and pick up Charlotte.  We then set out using the transportation system connections to take the monorail. First, we took the launch to the Contemporary Resort.

Then the monorail to the Polynesian Resort to see if we could find our "Brick" with our family names on it. 

The concierge at the Polynesian couldn't give us details for our brick location. I could get them at guest relations at The Magic Kingdom. We then set out by monorail to the The Magic Kingdom where we picked up a map and our brick location number.

We decided to take the boat to The Grand Floridian where we relaxed for a while in the entrance foyer and enjoyed several tunes from the grand piano. When that pianist left we went up to the second floor where a quartet was playing lively "Rag Time" tunes. Then we were off to catch the monorail back to the Polynesian. 

After a little bit of a walk along the beach at the Polynesian we located our "Brick". It was less worn than many of the others along the walk. It was located at the side  of the path near the trees and flowers. Folks tended to walk in the center or closer to the beach side of the walk. This spared our brick a lot of abrasion. 

I few pictures and we were on our way taking the monorail to the Contemporary Resort and then the boat launch back to Fort Wilderness.

LNM and Charlotte went to watch the evening movie near the pool. I remained and worked on he blog. I find it quicker to type it up and then paste it into the blog when I take the computer to the Wi-Fi hotspot at the Fort Wilderness check-in.

Another fun day was had by all at Disney!

Sat., Jan 5/13

Up a little later (8:30 am). Today will be a rest day for Charlotte and I. After breakfast in the RV LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) where off for a bike ride. They stopped at the office to pick up the “Chip ‘n Dale” they bought yesterday in the Magic Kingdom. 

A feature for Disney guests is that they do not have to carry their purchases around with them all day. They will be delivered to their accommodation office for pickup.

Charlotte went for a walk while I worked on the blog using Microsoft Word. I decided to type it up in the RV.

When I go to the Fort Wilderness Campground Check-in hotspot I will just have to paste it into the blog. This will save a lot of time as well as the computer battery.

Yummy pasta and meat sauce for Charlotte and I in the RV for dinner.

Nick and Marty worked on constructing some of the LEGO kits purchased at Legoland. Amazing how quick they are at this.

LNM were off again in the afternoon. Some sun, some clouds and no rain until this evening. A good day for Charlotte and I to rest and recharge.

LNM returned after doing some shopping. Clothes, food and a huge radio controlled truck of Nick. They went all the way back to Apopka (our KOA before Disney) to the store near the park to buy the TRAXXAS truck and all the accessories. The E-Maxx 4x4 Monster Truck is the Ultimate!

Nick did steaks on the BBQ for supper…… mmmm good!

TV until 10 pm – then we all hit the sack.

Fri., Jan 4/13

At 9:30, after breakfast,  we left with LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) and headed for the Magic Kingdom. After a short “Yellow” bus ride from our RV’s location we arrived at the Settlement Depot Boat Launch where we would  take the “Green Flag” Boat to the Magic Kingdom. LNM already had their tickets so they went on while we bought tickets at the at the Whoop-de-Doo Review Dinner Show ticket counter at the Depot.

Here I also added to our “Flat Penny” collection with another “Fort Wilderness” penny before heading down to the boat. Since our roller coaster days are behind us; we planned a day of touring our favourite (easy) rides and exhibits.

After walking down “Main Street” we headed for Tomorrowland. We did not find Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor particularly funny. There were not a lot of laughs from the younger crowd either.

Our next stop, The Carousel of Progress, has changed a little since its introduction at the World’s Fair in the early 60’s – mostly with an adjustment to the last (late 20^th century) tableau. It is always a favourite.

Next we took a ride on the People Mover around Tomorrowland to view the theme changes of the rides and attractions in this area.  There was an unexpected delay in Space Mountain for several minutes before it continued the circuit. We were both happy to not be in here on the roller coaster.

Our next venture brought us towards Frontierland with a stop at the Hall of Presidents on the way. We were interested in seeing how they updated the display with the last series of leaders; since we hadn’t stopped at this attraction since Jimmy Carter was in office.  

Frontierland is our traditional eating spot in the Magic Kingdom (The Land is its counterpart at Epcot). It was almost noon and time for a turkey leg. They are not only cooked to perfection – they are huge. We shared one and a drink for dinner before moving on to our next destination – Adventureland.

The Pirates of the Caribbean - originally (I think) inspired by “Treasure Island”– has received a boost from the newer movie trilogy of the same name. Although we have done this attraction every visit (at least 25 – including Disneyland) this is the first time that I noticed one of the skeletons had a mermaid’s spine and tail. The real attraction of Disney is in the details.

Then we were off around the corner to the Enchanted Tiki Room. Thankfully they have returned the “Birds” to their original script, music and style after a horrible and ill-fated effort (our opinion) to update this attraction several years ago.

The Haunted Mansion was next. This is our favourite ride style – a continuous moving line with a smooth, entertaining ride. I always get a kick out of the tombstone epitaphs as we enter and exit the mansion.

In the same vain, our next stop, “It’s A Small World” is always a treat. Like the “Pirates” we found the entrance and exit of the boats into the water a little rougher than usual. Maybe it’s just “old bones” (although a teen in the seat ahead gasped – “Oh! That Hurt!”)

We missed one of our favourites – Peter Pan’s Flight – as the in-line wait time was well over an hour and the “Fast Pass” return was over 4 hours later.  Instead we slipped into “Mickey’s PhilharMagic” which was a real “3D” treat accompanied with a few special effects (squirts of water).

Continuing on to the “New” Fantasyland where they have replaced Mickey’s house (etc.) with the Beauty and The Beast, Ariel, The Little Mermaid and “Circus” attractions. Passing on The Barnstormer (a roller coaster ride) we chose Under the Sea –Journey of The Little Mermaid.

This turned into a huge wait. It took well over an hour just to get close. Dozens of people ahead of us passed us as they left. I asked one of the cast members if there was a technical problem. The answer was no – it was a “guest” problem. Someone made an unauthorized exit from the ride which stopped it for safety reasons. This would normally cause a delay for a few minutes as everything is checked (again, safety first) and the ride is reset. Unfortunately, the delay caused a “domino effect”.  An impatient guest left during the first delay – causing the cycle to repeat. This happened several times as other guest left making the delay extremely long. Once things settled down the ride progressed normally returning to the quick, continuous movement intended.

We then took the WDW Railroad from Fantasyland. We stayed on the train at the Main Street Station and continued on to Frontierland. It was now time for supper. We each had a burger at “Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn and Café”. 

Then it was out the front door to watch “Disney’s Light Parade” (6 pm show) which was longer than usual and absolutely fantastic. Proportionate to the extra Christmas crowds, the park stays open longer, features more attractions and longer parades.

As the parade finished we just had enough time to proceed to Cinderella’s Castle for the 9 pm light show. Our last light show was 8 years ago. Wow! This one was beyond description. Technology has improved so much that the whole castle was illuminated. The exterior look changed several times from appearing to be made out of red bricks to looking like a jungle and everything imaginable in between.

Aat the end of the show Tinkerbell made her familiar flight from the top of the castle to a landing somewhere in Tomorrowland.

 It was only a 10 minute wait until the evening fireworks began. We moved to the carousel area in the middle of Fantasyland which provided a better view of the fireworks display.  LNM spotted us in the crowd and we watched the remainder of the fireworks together before they headed to “Beauty and the Beast”.

I thought I would be smart and take the WDW train again from Fantasyland avoiding the return rush along Main Street. Ooops! I didn’t realize the train stopped running at 8 pm. We had to walk back to Main Street and on to the Main Street Train Station. We arrived just in time to get a good viewing spot on the top level balcony from which to watch Disney’s Light Parade again (10 pm show).

This is our traditional parade watching spot. We discovered years ago that all the parades start from the large doors at the right of the Fire Station in the Town Square.  Being located at the curb near the Fire Station usually guaranteed a greeting for the kids (Liz and Kat) by all the characters as the parade started. . In later years, we moved up to the top level of the Train Station. Arriving early meant we could usually pull up a chair to the railing and watch in comfort. Best view in the park!

With the extended park hours (until 1 pm) during the holiday season the crush to leave for return transportation was not as heavy as when the park closed shortly after the fireworks or last parade. It was just a short walk from the Station to the launch area for the boat ride back to Fort Wilderness.

As we waited we were treated to the night time Electric Water Pageant.

A flotilla (actually 2 boats, each pulling several barges) display patriotic emblems accompanied by music. 

These then become several creatures of the sea which included a Sea Serpent,

a whale and a tortoise,

to jumping dolphins. This nightly event was supposed to be a 1 night opening extravaganza for the Polynesian Resort when it opened (1971). Happily, it still occurs nightly – over 40 years later.

At this time of night, as we discovered, the regular “Yellow”, “Orange” and “Purple” buses do not run throughout Fort Wilderness. Instead the “Fort Wilderness” or “Wilderness Lodge” buses freelance throughout the park. The first bus that arrived was going in the other direction in the park from where we were located (1600 section). We watched 4 deer grazing a short distance away as we waited for the next bus which took us to our stop.

LNM arrived back at the RV about 10 minutes after we had returned. We were all tired from a busy day. Soon everyone was asleep. Even with the day long, off and on,  light rain - Disney was fun!

Thu., Jan 3/13

Up early again - so to speak - to get ready for breakfast.

To save time sharing a single bathroom and shower - we all went to the camp bath house just a short walk away. We all had our own individual shower and soon we were all back at the RV  in less than a quarter of the time it would have taken if we all took turns in the RV.

Then we were all off to celebrate Nick's birthday at the Cape May Cafe at the Beach Resort. (Nick's birthday is really tomorrow - we made a mistake in the booking date - so we went anyway.)

It is a nice breakfast buffet that features visits from Donald, Minnie and Goofy as we eat.

Pictures and autographs from all at different times during the meal.

Nick blew out the candle on his (cup)cake as we sang Happy Birthday!

Later we went shopping in the Beach Resort Marketplace (Charlotte bought a Dizpin) and then it was off to Downtown Disney.

Our first stop was the LEGO store.

LNM bought a number of large kits at the LEGO store. They continued shopping in Downtown Disney while Charlotte and I went through the Disney store. Here, in a special section, half a dozen or more "Princesses" were geting their hair done in "Royal" fashion (including sparkles) to match the princess gown they had just purchased and were wearing.

Nick had to make a trip to the truck with several huge LEGO parcels. We agreed to meet "near the flowers" later when their shopping was done. Charlotte and I shared a cool Mango drink while we "people watched" as we waited for their return.

We were back at the RV by mid-afternoon. A little KD (Kraft Dinner) as a snack/lunch and LNM were off to mini-putt. They dropped me at the check-in center so I could access the Wi-Fi and do the blog, I will catch the "Yellow" bus from here back to the RV.

It's easy to have fun at Disney World!

Wed., Jan 2/13

Up early (7:00 am). Time to shower then get everything ready to head to Fort Wilderness at Disney World.

Charlotte packed a travel bag with clothes, necessities and our meds. We will be putting the motorhome into storage here at the KOA then driving in the Del Sol to Disney. We will be staying with LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) in their 5th wheel.

Lynda is also going to Fort Wilderness where she will meet her son and husband who are flying down to join her. Bob came to say good-bye as he has a campsite reserved at Fort Lauderdale, FL.

After breakfast we brought over some perishables that were left to Liz's RV as well as some travel items. Then I put the motorhome into the storage parking area.

I mapped out the route on the GPS in the Del Sol last night. Soon we were on our way. The toll road, a few miles south of the KOA, was easy. Not only was it shorter - there was little traffic compared to the I-4.

In less than an hour we were parked in the Fort Wilderness waiting area. We could see the entrance road from our parking spot. we saw Lynda arrive. Then LNM came about 15 minutes later. We pulled over into line behind them. A short wait in the entrance staging area until our site was ready and we followed LNM to their lot in the 1600 section.

Only 1 vehicle is allowed per lot. After unpacking other items from the car I returned the Del Sol to the overflow parking area. Liz picked me up and soon I was back at the campsite.

A number of the RV's are decorated for Christmas. The "Yellow" route bus stop is right across from our campsite. We took it around Fort Wilderness - then transferred to the "Orange" route to check out the decorations. We returned to our area again by taking the "Yellow" route back to our site.

The award for Christmas Decorations definitely goes to the lot right across the road from our spot. It has a huge number of decorations with many being animated. Santa, by the roadside, sings Christmas songs and greets all who come near. A LED lighted path guides visitors through the decorations. Wow!

This has been a tradition for the RVer at this site for several years. He adds more each season and is in the process of converting all the lights to LED's so he can power even more lights next year. It is amazing what he has done with a standard 50 amp service that also powers his motorhome.

Liz made a great snack style supper. A little TV and then Charlotte and I retired to the pull-out sofa that will be our bed for our stay. It is always a treat to stay at Disney!

Tue., Jan 1/13

This was a recovery day!

Charlotte and I just took it easy in the RV. I caught up on internet items like this blog, banking, emails and area info. I also set up the GPS for the trip to Disney and our later trip to the Clerbrook RV Resort where we will spend at least a month.

Each trip had to be set up using waypoints. The GPS wanted to send us the quickest way which would also be the busiest. Going to Disney I will catch the Toll road (SR-429) less than 3 miles south of the KOA off US-441. This will save driving thru Apopka to the I-4 near Orlando. We will miss all the stoplights through Apopka and the 3 lanes of steady traffic on I-4 from Orlando to Disney.

The toll road will be less busy and the small cost will be offset in fuel savings with the shorter distance, not to mention the time saved.

CR-535 will take us from the toll road to Vista Blvd. Less than 2 miles on Vista and we will be at Fort Wilderness.

Charlotte charged up both our Walkman MP3's then took hers for a walk around the KOA.

LNM (Liz, Nick and Marty) headed off to Old Town in Kissimmee. Old Town is a tradition. When we first took Liz, Old Town and the motel next door were outside of Kissimmee. They were the last buildings on US-192 and away from everything at that time. We came almost every year for 20 years. Each year we were greeted with more buildings, more roads and more traffic.

Marty loves the state of the art adventure course with its 4 story Ropes Challenge Course, an incredible ‘out and back’ Zip Line and a 35 ft adrenaline rushing Rock Climbing Wall. You woldn't have caught me on a Zip line 40 feet in the air when I was only 7 years old.

Marty was also looking forward to finding a pearl in an oyster. The adventure course is new; however, Liz, Kat and Mom each good pearls when we first came years ago. Some things never change.

Charlotte made pork (chops) and beans (maple syrup flavour) for supper. A touch of home.

TV and bed by 11 pm. Tomorrow we will be putting the RV in storage here until after we visit Disney.

Mon., Dec 31/12

Charlotte was up and ready early and departed with Liz for their 9:30 am appointment to get their nails done. I told Charlotte to treat Liz. Liz had the same idea and treated. Great children are a blessing - we are blessed with Liz and Kat.

The girls returned before noon. Charlotte was now sporting dark cherry coloured toenails - all set for sandals. They also did some grocery shopping.
.
Today the temp is in the low 70's F and sunshine.  There is a light breeze and a few very light clouds. Temps will be moving up to the high 70's by Wednesday. LNM headed for the outlet malls in Orlando a few minutes before we took the top off the Del Sol and set out to explore area RV resorts for our long term stay.

We had a few choices that we had explored on the internet. We also stopped at several that we spotted along the way, We were looking for a park with a high proportion of RV's. We found that this would mean a more active and friendly resort. Whne the resort is mostly park models they tend to be filled with older, less active folks that are also less likely to mix.

We found a few parks that had most of the amenities; however, we were looking for the "deal maker" - quilting. We settled for Clerbrook Golf and RV Resort - an Encore Resort near Clermont, FL. They had a nice list of activities including a day (Friday) for quilting.

We toured the RV resort on our own and picked out several potential sites. We were looking for shade and a lot that did not point the huge motorhome windshield into the sun. Rather than wait until we left Fort Wilderness (Disney World's RV park) we decided to book and pre-pay today to get the ideal site while it was available. We though the little extra for the premium lot was well spent for the location we reserved.

Another bonus is the Clermont area (US-27) isn't in a traffic overload situation. It will be easier and more enjoyable to get out and go places compared to the 24/7 crush of traffic around 1-4 near Orlando, Kissimmee,  and the Disney World area. We will be an easy half hour drive to the Disney Entrance at World Drive.

I knew Charlotte was too tired to cook after such a busy day touring (I'll use anything for an excuse) so we stopped at Golden Corral on US-192 just north of the I-4 (near the Disney World turnoff) for supper. Nothing like a great buffet to fed a hungry soul.

After eating our fill (literally) we were back at the RV in less than an hour. Again, a little TV before bed.

We are tired from the fresh air and sunshine and won't make it until the Ball Drops in Time Square!

Happy New Year Everybody!!!

Sun., Dec 30/12

All 4 RV's pulled out from Ocean Grove RV Park at the same time \(mid-morning) all heading for the Orange Blossom KOA in Apopka, FL.. As usual traffic and stop lights soon seperated us.

For the most part I was only a few cars behind LNM when I wasn't directly behind. Bob was soon a good distance back and Linda was nowhere in sight. We took SR-312 to US-1 to I-95 and the I-4 at Daytona Beach, FL.

The travelling was good. Despite the heavy traffic there were no slow downs. LMN pulled off I-4 about 10 miles from Apopka. We thought they were headed off to gas up.

We arrived at the KOA first. LMN (Liz, Nick & Marty) were in a few minutes behind us. There GPS just took them on a different route.
Bob was right behind them - his GPS took him on a route different than both of us. A few minutes later Lynda was in line at the registration office as well.

Our lot was beside LNM and Bob and Lynda were at other lots somewhere else in the park. We couldn't be all together as the park was full. We got the last 4 availabe sites. Soon we were set up. We and LNM were right across from the office & pool.

I came in a different way than LNM and spotted a Harbor Freight (Tools, etc.) a few miles before arriving.

Naturally, I did my duty and told Nick and soon we were off shopping. We both made purchases there and at Lowes. Next a stop at Walmart for some food items. We were too late at the quick lube for Nick to get an oil change for his truck. The front was open; but they were in the process of closing early and the back (entrance) was locked.

Back at the KOA I helped Nick wash his RV. We just kept on going and washed the Del Sol and then my motorhome.

Charlotte made supper in the RV - Macaroni Tuna Casserole - mmmm good! The we watched a little TV.

Later Marty knocked on the door to tell us they were having a campfire. We were sorry we could not accept the offer as  we were tired and were just heading to bed. Charlotte had to be up early as Liz made an appointment for both to get their nails done. A well deserved treat for the ladies.

The campground is right beside a major road (US-441). The traffic is continuous - even throughout the night. The rhythm of  the tires "slap-slapping" over the highway "seperator strips" was almost like rain on the roof. Being tired we were soon asleep.

Sat., Dec 29/12

We are at Ocean Grove RV Park until tomorrow.


LNM (Liz, Nick & Marty) left early in the morning to hit the St. Augustine Outlet Malls.

We didn't make the same move until almost noon. So nice to have the top off on the Del Sol allowing us to enjoy the warmth of the sun.

"Old Town" St. Augustine was packed. Folks come here not only for the Outlet Malls; but also for the "Nights of Lights" and the Fireworks on New Year's Eve.

It was much easier today navigating through the Outlet Malls without the 60 feet of motorhome with car in tow. A lot easier in the car. Our lesson from yesterday - go to the west entrance to avoid the "crawl" at the first entrance; but come out the East Entrance as it has a traffic light which the wst entrance does not.

Walked the mall and had a slice of pizza at the food court for lunch. Our only purchases were silicone oven gloves at the kitchen store and a set of Pyrex bowls at the Corningware store.

My plan for the "Nights of Lights" in Old Town was to stop at the Visitor Center (straight east (SR-16) from the Outlet Malls to Ponce De Leon (US-1). Here there is free parking and if you buy your ticket before 5 pm for the Old Town "Holly Jolly" Trolley it is $8 each not $9. A shuttle picked us up and brought us downtown to the "Nights of Lights" departure at the old town parking garage.

For the tour each person receives "Magic Glasses" that turn the over 2 million decorative lights into "Snowflakes". The glasses turn all lights into snowflakes - the best are the traffic lights. If you move your head "side to side" slightly the snowflakes will rotate a little in each direction.

The trolley snakes in and out of the streets (many - narrow and one way) in Old Town. A few stopping points let folks off and on. One venue offers free hot cider and cookies. The historic Bed and Breakfast homes were all beautifully decorated.  The trolley plays upbeat christmas songs and many join in singing. Everytime we pass a restaurant or other trolley everyone shouted "Happy New Year".

The shuttle returned us to the visitor center. From there we were able to take US-1 to SR-312 an avoid the crush of traffic in Old Town.

SR-312 at US-1 has virtually every major chain restaurant that exists. We ate at Chili's.

SR-312 to AIA and back to Ocean Grave RV Resort. Although we both travelled  on our own LNM arrived back within minutes of our return. They also enjoyed the  "Nights of Lights" Trolley Tour.

Soon we were bedded down as we had a busy day and will need to be up early to prepare for departure. Liz reserved for all 4 RV's at the Orange Blossom KOA in Apopka, FL.

Wed., Dec 26 - 29/12

Wi-Fi was bad last night. Everybody in the park was probably on-line. Waited until this morning.

We made it safely to Florida. We are now in St. Augustine for another day - then ???

Liz, Nick & Marty made it as well - we are beside them - they are on our right. Two of their friends that followed them are on our left.

 

Day 1 - Wed., Dec 26/12 (Boxing Day)

We made it through to the first Flying J (New Milford, PA) with no problems. We skipped breakfast there at Denny's as the storm was coming in from Ohio.

When the storm hit it was freezing rain. There were 2 solid lines of traffic going south on I-81. When we weren't stopped we moved at between 5 and 15 mph.

 

It was like this for the next 3 hours. A dozen or more cars in the ditch when we went through.

Finally, the snowplows were out in Maryland near Hagerstown. The roads were just wet and we were back up to 55 mph. Amazing how salt and moving traffic clears the roads.

 

Unfortunately, Maryland in this section is very narrow - less than a half hours worth of travel. West Virginia wasn't quite as good; but at least plowed. WV is only about 15 minutes wide in this section and soon we were into Virginia.

Filled up at the Flying J (Clear Brook, VA). It was now raining. This created 4-6 inches of wet slush.

We pulled into our traditional Walmart SuperCenter stop at Winchester. Liz pulled in about 15 minutes later. All 4 RV's were in within a half hour. Another 2-3 RV's here with us. This is not a "No Stay" Walmart - it is a "No permission" Walmart. For legal reasons they can't give "permission" to stay. In other words - don't ask - just stay! 24 Hr. SuperCenters - especially on the first night - allow us to shop or use the washroom at any time - great! We don't leave with anything that freezes so it was Walmart shopping for these essential items.

Nick got an email picture from Bernie (neighbour) - Wow! We just made it out before the major dump!!! Hwy 401 and Hwy 2 were closed, as well. Don't mind missing a few feet of the white stuff!

Day 2 - Thu, Dec 27/12

Another tradition - breakfast in Liz's trailer before we head out - mmmm, good!

Normally, we wave good-bye to Liz where I-66 to Washington, DC meets I-81 and we head to Arizona. This year we are going to Florida for a change.

I-81 to I-66 then US-17 through Warrenton, VA to join I-95 at Fredericksburg, VA is the best route for RV's. It gets us out of the mountains and potential snow quicker. It is also a lot less of a strain as the terrain is a lot more level and we miss the crush of traffic around Washington.

This just means less time in the crush. It was 3 lanes of stop and go traffic on I-95 from Fredericksburg until to near Ashland, VA. No accidents - just real slow downs at every on ramp. I-95 at Richmond isn't too bad on the weekends. We take I-295 around being this is a weekday. Travel from here was fairly normal except for a few slowdowns to 5 mph due to rubberneckers. One slow down was 8 miles long due to them slowing down to look at a cop with a car in the median - unbelievable!

We filled at the Flying J at Kenly, NC and had a late lunch at their Denny's (2 pm). The food has improved at Flying J's since Pilot bought and brought then out of bankruptcy. This lead to many getting Denny's as well. NC also has the cheapest gas - $3.09 a (US) gallon.

Good driving all the way into another tradtional stop - Walmart at Walterboro, SC. Still down to freezing at night. This Walmart does not allow Transports - RV's are OK. There were around 30 RV's in here for the night.

Day 3 - Fri., Dec 28/12

On the road again for day 3. We filled up at the Flying J in Brunswick, GA just before the FL border. Florida fuel is more expensive. We all met at the Florida Welcome center. Then all left for Camping World at St. Augustine. Amazingly - I was the only one of the group that didn't make a purchase - I must be slipping. I'll catch up soon.

 

We had lunch in the Food Court with Liz & Family at the Outlet Mall near Camping World. There is a much larger Outlet Mall on the other side of I-95 as well. We went in with the RV before going to Camping World. It was totally packed. No room for an RV to park. One RV that did park had cars park directly in front and behind leaving them no space to pull out. So considerate!?

 

We decided to reserve 2 nights at Ocean Grove RV Resort in St. Augustine, FL for a break.

 

 

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the USA. Ponce De Leon landed here looking for the "Fountain of Youth". It was stop and Go through "Old Town". St. Augustine is rated by National Geographic as one of the Top 10 places in the world for Christmas Lights. Once under Spanish rule, this 16th-century city fetes its heritage. Single white candles once flickered from colonists’ windows; during Nights of Lights, the 144-square-block historic district twinkles with two million bulbs (each white, per city ordinance). November 19-January 31. (See Attachment)

 

Day 4 - Sat., Dec 29/12

Liz is off to the Outlet Malls at I-95. We may decide on our next stop tonight or tomorrow. We plan to visit the lights in Old Town this evening.

Next update - probably from our next stop on Sunday - someplace south of here ????