WDW Memories Podcast: Come Relive Your Walt Disney World Memories

Memory 062 - Walt Disney World Monorails

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: **34:12**
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Well I’ve got some exciting news. Well not news really, but it could be. So Traci and I were talking this week, and we’ve both got the itch to return to Walt Disney World. Now it so happens that work might be sending me down to Orlando for one of two conventions this year, and if it works out, Traci may accompany me down just for a couple of days before the convention begins, and we’ll probably go to Walt Disney World for a day or two. So I may have some new audio to start incorporating into the memories.

In the meantime, I’ll have to continue to satisfy the WDW itch with my current memory collection. And today’s memory is a Walt Disney World classic. Our request for today’s memory came from Laura in Pennsylvania. In a continuation of her email (she requested the World Showcase Players) she said:

My last request is audio of a ride on the monorail around the Magic Kingdom hotels. That may sound strange, since the ride is really made by what you're seeing, but honestly it's nice to just hear it and then imagine what you would be seeing.

Laura, I don’t have an uncut version around the complete resort loop. But I do have others that are still just as cool. In fact this is going to be a long memory as I’m probably going to include a bunch of good stuff. I also tossed it out to Facebook, Google+ and Twitter, and all I got was a “That would be pretty cool” from Dan, and a couple of likes on Facebook. I would love to hear what you all think of the monorails.

Anyways, let’s get to the memories. We’re going to start off where everyone wants to start, by going to the Magic Kingdom. It’s 2006 and I’m at the parks by myself after work. I’ve hopped the monorail at the TTC to get to the Magic Kingdom and we’ll join up right as the monorail is pulling away. Pay attention and you’ll get to hear the special Disneyland Anniversary announcements in the monorail spiel. Next, we’ll jump to September 2010. The family has been having fun in the Magic Kingdom but now we are headed to Epcot for a couple of hours before we go back to finish out the evening at the Magic Kingdom. We’ll hop the Monorail from the Magic Kingdom to the TTC, and then strait into another monorail from the TTC to Epcot. Once we arrive at Epcot I’ll jump to our final memory, a special return trip from Epcot to the TTC. This memory is from our anniversary trip in 2006, and it’s actually our Anniversary day. Traci and I have taken it easy and are headed over to the Magic Kingdom for a little while to wait for our dinner reservations at the California Grille. And to make this ride even more special, we were able to ride in the front of the Monorail. So the audio today is from that now lost special treat of riding in the front with the driver.

Memory 061 - World Showcase Players

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural & Mono Audio **
Time: 26:43
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Let me start off with an apology. Two weeks ago, my extended family all returned back to the home we grew up in to celebrate Christmas and my Dad’s birthday. It was a wonderful weekend, but in the process of planning and packing for the trip I totally forgot that I was supposed to release a podcast. I had contemplated putting something out, but after returning things were just crazy and I never got around to it. So that brings us to this weeks memory.

This week, we’re going to listen to some older memories of a troupe of performers that can often be found in the United Kingdom, and on occasions, Italy in Epcot’s World Showcase. If you haven’t guessed it, we’re going to listen to the World Showcase Players.

Our request for today's memory came from Laura in Pennsylvania. She wrote in an earlier email:

My second request is the street show in Great Britain in Epcot. You know, the one with King Arthur? I figured you would probably have that audio since every one of your shows ends with the end of that show.

Well, she’s right you know. Since starting this podcast, I’ve featured a brief clip from the World Showcase Players to honor the true stars of the podcast, the memories. So Laura, your request will be granted.

So for this memory I’m going to feature the audio that I pull the clip from (so don’t assume the podcast is over when you hear it the first time), then we’ll catch a second memory recorded at a much later date. Memory 1 is from August of 1998, and in Mono. As always, I’ll tweak it some to make it sound in stereo, but it’s not really. It was a gorgeous day, and I was enjoying my day by myself in the parks. My family doesn’t usually stop for shows in the streets as we’re sprinting to the next attraction, so I was determined to stop for these guys this time. I started the recording just seconds into the show. Memory 2 we weren’t so lucky. We arrived late and missed a few minutes at the beginning. It’s 2006 and Traci and I are on our Anniversary trip again. It’s our first day and we’ve been having a great time in Epcot when we round the corner and see the large crowd congregated there, we slide up and we’re into the show.

Memory 060 - The Enchanted Tiki Room

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 44:44
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Well so it’s been a few weeks since I last released a podcast, but I first wanted to start off by saying Happy New Year to everyone. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas or whatever you celebrate. Our family had an iteresting one to say the least, but I’d have to say I love watching my kids open up the gifts we got them, and then playing with everything while watching the Disney Christmas Parade on TV was probably the highlight of my day.

So this last year we lost a beloved version of an attraction... Ok, maybe not so beloved, but there were some people that liked it. Take for example Christopher. He wrote me this wonderful story:

I've recently found your podcast and I'm really enjoying it. You have sparked a lot of memories of year past when I was a child. My birthday and the school winter vacation always coincided and that is when my parents to the family to Florida and we stayed at my Grandparents house. Can you imagine spending every childhood birthday at Disney World, that was what I got. Well I'm 45 years old now and my parents are gone now. So thank you very much. You have brought back many memories I have forgotten.

I was wondering if you have any memories of the Tiki Room including the out side cue area. that was one of my favorites because it was out of the weather (heat or rain) and we got to sit down and enjoy the music and the AA birds. Some people don't enjoy this attraction as much as the others but this one has so many memories for me. The original was what I grew up with but the new under new management version is just as nice.

I’ve said it before, this is exactly the point of this podcast, to help spark those memories of ours. Some of those memories may be from a week ago, and others may be decades old, but there is something still amazing about listening to that attraction again that will bring a smile to everyones face. As I said in an email to Christopher, his story is very similar to mine. With a birthday just days after Christmas, often times we’d be down in Tampa visiting family for Christmas, and we’d take a day and head over to Disney World to spend a day there. So I’m sure our memories of the parks are quite similar.

So Christopher, I hope this memory is a good one for you. We’re going to get 2 attractions today in fact. I don’t have the recent re-released version of Enchanted Tiki Room from Walt Disney World, but I do have the Under New Management version, AND I have the original Enchanted Tiki Room from Disneyland. So that’s what we’ll get to hear instead.

We’ll start off with the original version in Disneyland. It’s a beautiful day in June 2010. We’ve been at Disneyland all day and Susie is starting to tire. We decide who wouldn’t like some Dole Whip and a show, so we go inside the waiting area as the preshow has already started. I’ll be walking around looking at all the tiki gods, trying to follow along to the narration, then we’re ushered into the show, which is surprisingly full for what everyone considers a classic attraction.

From here we’re going to jump to a memory from our Anniversary trip in 2006 again. It’s been a slightly rainy day which is bad because we were planning on staying for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, but that’s another story. We’ll enter into the pre-show area well before the show begins. You’ll hear the music gently playing in the background behind the waterfall. We’ll turn to the left and make our way in to an empty tiki room and take our place for the show.

Memory 059 - Here Come The Muppets

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

** Mono Video **
Time: 17:28
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Merry Christmas!

I love this time of year, snow, presents, time off... what could be better. I know, MUPPETS!

So it’s been Muppet mania every where you look right now. It seems the Marketing guys are getting bonuses for the number of different ways they can push their product, and I think they’re going to get a big bonus. So I figured that this would be a perfect time to share with all off you an old video I have of a long lost attraction. I didn’t realize how unique this attraction was when I first saw it, or even until recently.

Here Come The Muppets was a temporary stage show featuring all your favorite pals in one place. Today’s memory was from Summer of 1990. My dad, brother, sister, and I are back in the Disney-MGM Studios. We’ve seen a few attractions already and decided to see this new Muppet thing. I’d read somewhere that Disney and Jim Hensen were working on a collaborative thing, but that would still be in the future, so this show as a little surprise to me. In any case, we’re going to join this memory in the waiting lobby. There is a small TV, which is a little hard to hear, but we’ll start by watching that. Then we’re ushered in to the main auditorium where we turn the camera back on, a few seconds into the show. You haven’t missed much but Kermet walking on stage.

Memory 058 - Celebrate! A Street Party

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 24:40
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So today kind of snuck up on me. As I went to bed last night I realized I had never sent out a message seeking comments on Twitter, Google+, or Facebook. So sorry about that folks, but I figured you’d rather have podcast. So I’m just rolling with the initial request I’ve got.

Today’s request is from Kyle (you know, the same Kyle from Memory 048). He had also requested Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it! As I explained to him, not living in Florida causes some limitation as to what I can record, one of those being the latest parades. So I decided to share the parade I do have, and it’s actually from Disneyland and not Walt Disney World.

This is our California trip for my brothers wedding in June of 2010. It’s our second day in California. We’ve had a great day at Disneyland already, but as much as it pains me, we must leave before closing. We are still on Eastern time, and while it might be 7PM here in CA, it’s 10PM to our bodies, and two-year-old Susie hasn’t napped all day. We’ve had a great time but we decide it’s best to head out, however to get out we must negotiate the parade crowd who’s waiting already. So half-way down Main Street, the parade begins and we’re stuck. We decide to just stop and watch. I take Susie out of the stroller and put her on my shoulders, then try a couple of different spots, but get told we’re blocking the path, or we’re blocking an entry way. So finally, we decide we should try to make it to a bathroom for Susie before the parade ends and everyone else does the same thing. Don’t worry, we don’t actually go in, but instead find a spot in front of the Carnation Cafe, and finish out the parade there.

Memory 057 - The Voices of Liberty 2

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 20:37
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With Thanksgiving being celebrated here in the United States, my time has been completely consumed. We’re cleaning and cooking, picking up family and laughing at the kids. It’s a time of joy and... well... thankfulness. I thought what better thing to be thankful for than good music, and patriotic music at that. So today I’m going to visit a memory I haven’t shared yet, the Voices of Liberty.

We’ve heard the Voices of Liberty before, back in Memory 011, but that was before I recorded this memory. On a trip to Epcot for Flower and Garden in 2007, we got to enjoy this phenomenal show once again. It’s been an entertaining day, filled with flowers and butterflies. We’ve just finished lunch at the Germany Pavilion where we got to enjoy some great German food, and heard the band there at the end of our meal. We’ll be joining this memory as we’re walking over from Germany in hopes that we can make the next set of the Voices of Liberty. We arrive just a few bars into the first song of the set, and take our seat on the floor as close as we can get.

Memory 056 - Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor and The Timekeeper

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
** Mono Audio **
Time: 52:54
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Well like last week, I’m scrambling to get caught up. I think the recent changes to Google+ have taken too much of my attention, and now I’m behind in my planning for our next memory. So I actually had to get up early this morning and still write the script before I could even record. Thankfully it’s about some recordings I’m very familiar with.

So today’s memory is a unique one and does require a bit of introduction. It all started with a request from Chris in Montreal, Canada. He wrote:

...also if you could manage to get The new attractions in all 4 parks and compare them with old attractions that'd be awesome.

Well Chris let me choose which comparison I wanted to do, so I got to do one that I’d been waiting for since I’ve started this podcast journey years ago. I decided to showcase Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club and it’s predicessor The Timekeeper. I know, there have been more attractions prior to this, but sadly these were the only two I have recorded. So that’s as far back as I could go.

So sometime after reaching that decision, I also received an email from Laura in Pennsylvania. She wrote:

I actually have three requests, and they really have nothing to do with each other, so if you only do one, I'll completely understand. The first is the Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. I know that it changes slightly every time, but one recording would probably be a good representative, right?

Laura, I sadly can only give you one recording. I think I might have seen this attraction twice, but I only have one recording to work with, so I guess that works out for us right.

So when I tossed the topic out on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+ I got the following responses. On Facebook Robert said:

Timekeeper was one of the best shows ever!

and Daniel Said

Monster inc. to me is very good and different. My little boy has to see it every visit!

and Dan said:

Monster inc.would be different...

And on Google+, Pat wrote:

Having only been to WDW five times, my experiences are very limited. My first time was in 87, and my last time was last year. (my next time is next year). One thing that Disney does better than everyone else is putting an imprint on your memory with every attraction they create. Although I only saw the Timekeeper once, it is such a dominant memory. I would love to hear that memory. Thank you for your hard work.

Thank you all for the comments, I can agree with all of you. The Timekeeper was such a great attraction, but I think it was so underrated in the parks. I don’t remember ever seeing a line for this attraction, which is probably the reason I only ever rode it once myself. I assumed it was some lame attraction, or didn’t even know it existed because there never was a line or much of a sign to begin with. But once I saw it, I always looked for it to be open again, in hopes that I might be able to get back in there and see it one more time. Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor is a good attraction in it’s own right, and definitely a unique one in the Magic Kingdom. Even if you don’t see the full backstory, or know the movie, you can still enjoy the attraction, and I know Susie sure did. Anways, on with the Memories.

So let’s start off in the present, or with the current attraction at least. We’ll begin on what has been a beautiful spring day in 2007. My wife and I were joined today by her parents. We’ve spent most the day in Epcot, and have park hopped over to the Magic Kingdom for the evening and a couple of staple attractions. We actually began our evening by turning right in the plaza, and heading down to Tomorrowland, and this was our first stop. The crowds aren’t too bad today, so our wait is minimal. We’re going to jump into this memory as we’re standing in the queue area waiting to enter the attraction. As a bit of interest, as we’re waiting to enter the attraction, I actually comment to Traci about how this attraction replaced the Timekeeper.

Our second memory goes a bit further back. In this one, we’re going to jump back to August of 1998. This was one of those trips were my family and I came over from Clearwater, FL for a day at the parks. It’s been a full day hopping between Disney’s MGM Studios, Epcot, and now Magic Kingdom. We’ve seen a lot, even though wait times on the average have been over 30 minutes. Sadly, I don’t have any more of this attraction other than when we were let into the show, so we’ll jump into this memory just as we’re let into the room.

So our Memory from 2007 is in Binaural, so headphones on, however our memory from 1998 is in a Modified Monaural, so it may sound stereo, but it’s not. You may not need to have the headphones on for that one, but I still would, as you might miss some of those special audio details.

Memory 055 - Haunted Mansion 2

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 18:53
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So this week got turned on it’s perverbial ear, and I sadly didn’t get to ask you what you thought about our next featured memory, so instead I’m going to update a previous memory. Today we’re going to stick with the time of year we’re about to celebrate and catch a new ride on the Haunted Mansion. This time, the sound system has been upgraded, and you’ll really hear the affects. It’s much improved over the recording I featured on Memory 019.

In September of 2010, Traci, Susie, and I joined my dad and sister on a day at the parks. We’ve had a full day, but there are a couple of more mature attractions my sister and I hoped to ride. So we split up. Susie, Traci and my dad headed over to Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor and my sister and I headed over to do Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion. We’ve already walked on Space Mountain, and now are walking up to the Haunted Mansion. Crowds are light, as they have been all day, and we’re shortly ushered into the portrait room before being ushered into the stretching room, and our adventures begin. To kind of play with the binaural sound, I actually answered a phone call from my dad as we leave the stretching room (I think I’ll probably leave that in).

Memory 054 - Favorite Walt Disney World Memories

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: **32:14**
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Well as you know, Walt Disney World and specifically the Magic Kingdom turned 40 this past week. Sadly I wasn’t able to swing a trip down there to attend the festivities, though from what I’m reading and seeing from the day, I’m not sure I missed much. Still, it’s a time to celebrate and remember these 40 special years, and what better way than through you the listeners. So I threw the question out on Twitter and Facebook and got some great responses. I’m not going to read all of them, but if you’d like to see what others had to say, stop by our Facebook page (you can find the link on the WDW-Memories.net website).

Let’s start with a story from Calum. He posted on Facebook:

Two years ago when we went, we decided to go see the parade one more time on our last night and we were up front watching where it all starts. Well, they picked my youngest to help carry the pole at the end of the parade (he was 9 at the time). Half [way] to the castle he let my oldest (just turned 16 while we were there) take and carry it which was awesome.

This year we took advantage of our early Magic Hours and headed straight for Space Mountain. Well, we rode it, then fast passed it,then rode it again and again...next thing you know in a lil less than 1.5hr we had rode it 7x times straight! [It] was a TON of fun as we would pose for the cameras with our "7s" held up with all 6 of us from our group.

Then there was this story from Lynn also on Facebook:

The earliest memory I have of WDW is when they were celebrating 15 yrs. I believe I was 8 yrs old. I still remember the theme song for the parade "15 years, we're having a party" and remember the floats. I also remember that they were giving things away as you entered the park. I wanted to win one of those hat visors that had lights on it. I never got it but my mom won a free ticket to the MK which we used a couple years later. My first visit to WDW was in 1983 but my first real memory of it was during the 15th anniversary. Now I can't count how many times we have been and all the memories I have, my husband and I were even married at the [Wedding Pavilion] in 2007 and I have 3 children and 2 of them have celebrated their birthdays at WDW and my youngest, 19 months, just celebrated his first trip to WDW and first hair cut at WDW about 3 weeks ago.

Next, Kastin shared a great story, again on Facebook:

January 2009 my boyfriend and I spent the day at Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom and Epcot for my 24th birthday. It was an amazing day that ended in Epcot with a dinner at Le Cellier steakhouse and fireworks it was an amazing birthday. Then in August of that year we went to Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom for his 25th birthday. We had an amazing day. The weather couldn't have been more perfect surprisingly for a august day in Florida is wasn't that hot. Every time we got off a ride he would check his pockets I thought it was strange but didn't think anything of it. Later that day we ended with fireworks in front of the castle and after they were over my boyfriend got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Of course I said YES! It was the most amazing day I've ever had at the Magic Kingdom! Before we left we made sure to get a Disney themed picture frame with the year so we could always remember that day :) And last month we purchased annual passes! We plan on celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary in march at the all 4 Disney parks.

And finally my favorite came from Jennifer. She posted this on Facebook too:

This year we visited in February with our whole family (myself, husband, daughter, mother, father & mother in law). We were in Magic Kingdom the last night during extra magic hours when everyone decided they were ready to leave early. My daughter (9) and I wanted to stay. We rode several rides and played like we were the only one in the park. We had no idea what time it was when we decided to come back through Cinderella Castle towards Main Street. When we got to the bridge we saw a group of people standing looking up at the castle. We turned around right as the clock up on the castle "struck" midnight. We decided to chime the hour and everyone standing there joined in. The moment was kind of surreal making us feel like we had been the princess and our [coach] was getting ready to turn into the pumpkin. With that we decided to call it a night which was a perfect last night to our vacation.

So, like all of you, I too have had so many memories in the parks, it really is hard to just pick one. And to be honest, I think really my favorite memory changed every time, because I think that things have honestly gotten better every time. I remember going there in 86 (I think this was my first time by the way) with my family. We are avid amusement park goers and this was definitely more special than anything we’d seen before with sights and smells that you just don’t find anywhere. On a subsequent trip, I remember wandering around Tomorrowland in search of Alien Encounter which was new and I’d read about, but we couldn’t find it. The park closed and we were on our way out of tomorrowland, and a Cast Member said, “last show, come on in”. I didn’t know what it was, but shoot, it was the last show, so we can’t pass up a bonus ride on something right?! Once we got inside I realized we’d found it, making this such an amazing end to an already awesome day. Another trip I got chosen to be a part of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and was asked to to the diabolical laugh (boy do I wish I had my recorder at that time). Then standing just feet away from the action is still just awesome to me.

But the greatest memory for me has to be meeting the Mice with Susie here in Walt Disney World. Now, she has already met both of them in Disneyland, so it wasn’t her first time, but it was the first time here in Walt Disney World. When we were let into the room, Susie almost sprinted ahead of everyone, as if Mickey and Minnie were just waiting for her to arrive. When it was finally our turn, she was almost speachless, but you could see her excitement. She tried talking to them, and giving them hugs and kisses. When the rest of the family went up, both Mickey and Minnie took a moment to point to Traci’s baby belly, and another memory was created for us.

So today, I’m going to let you all join in this memory with us. We’ll jump in this memory as we walk through Mickey’s house, into his back yard, and into the judges tent. Susie is in Grandpa’s arms and enjoying the cartoons while we wait. It’s been a fun morning, but we’re all getting a little hungry now, and our breakfast reservation is still a little ways ahead of us. Finally we’re lead back to our room where Mickey and Minnie are waiting. We’re the last family to enter, but this works out in the end as we don’t get shoved out by the next group entering. Instead, we get a fair amount of time to really enjoy interacting with the pair, taking photos with the immediate family, and then with everyone else too. Now, during the pictures I actually take the microphones out and let them hang down my back, so the sound isn’t always in true binaural, but it still sounds really good, so I’d still suggest headphones.

Memory 053 - DINOSAUR

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
** Stereo Audio **
Time: 31:49
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I can’t believe what I just witnessed. I’m a huge sports fan, and in particular a baseball fan. Sadly my team, the Orioles have been out of it since opening day, but waking up this morning to find out they played spoiler, in addition to Tampa pulling off the comeback of the season to clinch the wild-card... just an awesome morning. But this podcast isn’t about baseball, it’s about one of my other great passions, Disney. And today, we’re going to be revisiting a polarizing attraction, one that seems to have many lovers and haters. We’re going to be catching a ride on DINOSAUR.

Now many of you might love this thrill ride, while others don’t enjoy the fear factor, or maybe it’s even the ride vehicle itself throwing you around. And the rquests alone were many and their reasons were varieed. In fact, our attraction today was requested by no fewer than 5 different people. It was originally requested by Mandy from Newcastle, UK. She wrote:

I would like to make a request for DINOSAUR at animal kingdom as its the best attraction at the Animal Kingdom and one of my favourite attractions. I love the audio, suspense and thrill of the ride. I would really appricate if you could do this.

Then Jared wrote in saying:

I have one request for a WDW Memory. Dinosaur. Whether you remember the old "Countdown to Extinction" or the current Dinosaur, this is one of my favorite attractions in Animal Kingdom.

Of course, there’s Mary’s reason for requesting it:

Can you make a recording of Dinosaur please? My family loves that ride and to this day, we still like imitating our friend's face when we took her on it.

I also got an email from Jessica in Homestead, FL saying:

I was wondering if we can hear Dinosaur which I just love and remember when I was a kid it was called "count down to extinction"

And finally I got one last email from Brendan saying:

...I was wondering if you could do the dinosaur in animal kingdom.I remember my first time riding it.I was in the front row and was so scared because the big t Rex was roaring in my face and started chasing us and it banged us around so much my head was spinning by the time I got off and my heart pounding...so I sort of need this podcast to make me forget the time for when I go with Cameron in april so that I can ride it and not be as scared as I was.

So as you can see, even our thoughts and memories are pretty diverse. On Facebook I heard from Daniel who probably summed it up best by saying:

The first ride we ever rode at AK. Extremely loud, extremely Big, and extremely Fun!

I personally enjoy the ride. It’s not my favorite, but it’s definitely thrilling. That said, as a dad of 2 little ones, it will be a LONG time before we get to ride this as a family. In the mean time, there’s always child swap and fast passes.

So now let’s get to the reason we’re all here really, our memories. The memory today we’ll be sharing is from December 2006. It’s that anniversary trip again. Traci and I splurged and got a room for her parents who lived in Florida at the time but had never stayed in an on-property resort. So this morning, they were joining us for a bit of holiday fun in the parks. We started out our day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and have done quite a bit already. I’ve been debating weather or not to take them on this, as I know they haven’t seen the movie, and the story or the thrill aspect might be lost on them, but we go on anyways. We had picked up Fastpasses earlier, and are now heading back to utilize them. We’re going to join this memory as we apprach the Dino Institute. You’ll hear us discussing the little red badge the Cast Member gave us. We make it up to the front of the fastpass wait area, and it appears the attraction broke down, so we’ll get to listen to a bunch of the queue audio. Finally they let us down the hall to the pre-show area where we finally our back story, and from here a short wait and we’re on the ride.

Now, if that’s not enough for you, I’m going to throw some bonus audio in also. In December of 2001, my family and I took a day trip over to the parks, and one of our early stops was DINOSAUR. The reason I’m including this memory is for what’s missing. As we pulled away from the loading area, it’s become pretty apparent that somethings missing. Apparently Dr. Seeker didn’t make the trip, so we’re left with no narration, and nothing but the attraction audio and our own fears. It was actually more intense in my opinion, but you’ll be able to tell from listening to everyone else on the ride what they thought too.

While the audio from 2001 is only in stereo, the audio from 2006 is in Binaural, so in either case, headphones on.

Memory 052 - Pirates of the Caribbean

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
** Stereo Audio **
Time: 30:37
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Today’s memory was requested by Bret in Chicago, IL. His original email from January 2010 said:

I went on my first trip without the bulk of my family this past June, and my brother told me about your podcasts while we were there, I've been listening to them on and off since then and especially the past few days... I was wondering if you had a recording of Pirates of the Caribbean before it was changed to add Jack Sparrow. It has been one of my favorites since I was little, even before all the movies, so I'd love to get a refresher as it used to be.

Now, you might be thinking “didn’t I already hear Pirates of the Caribbean?” and you’d be right. Back on Memory 13, I released my binaural recording from 2006, featuring Captain Jack Sparrow. But Bret wanted to hear it before the addition of Captain Jack Sparrow, so that’s what we’re going to do. In fact I’m going to, as a bonus, re-release the binaural audio with Captain Jack, this time with more of the queue line audio included.

So to begin, we’ll start out in 2003. It’s a day trip for my family and I. It’s still early in the morning, and we’ve hit a couple of headliner attractions in the Magic Kingdom when we decide that we haven’t seen Pirates in a while, so we head that way. We’ll join in on this clip as the family is nearing the boarding area. We’re loaded into the boat and off on our journey.

After this memory, we’ll jump ahead to 2006. It’s December, and this time it’s Traci and I on our Anniversarry trip. It’s the middle of the afternoon, and the lines are still short. So we’ll actually join this memory as we’re walking into the fort. It’s a very short wait, and we’re on our boat.

Now memory 1 is in Stereo, but memory 2 is in binaural, so in either case headphones on.

Memory 051 - Country Bear Jamboree

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 23:00
Download

It’s another early morning here in my “studio” and once again, I’m up before the sun. But thankfully today, we’re going back to a memory that is full of enough energy and happiness that it’s sure to pick me up. Today, we’re going to return to Frontierland to watch the Country Bear Jamboree.

I know some of you are probably thinking “didn’t he already do that?”. Well not really. In Memory 042, we did get to see a special Christmas edition of the attraction, but I still haven’t fullfilled the request for the traditional show audio. So it’s time I did that.

Today’s request is from Dan in Soo, Michigan. He emailed me:

Maybe when you next visit WDW you could get audio from The Country Bear Jamboree, that would be awesome as it's one of my very favorite attractions.

Well Dan, today’s your day. I hope you stuck with me since you emailed me in 2009 for this attraction (I guess I’m not as caught up as I thought). In any case, as before, I’ve tossed the attraction out to Facebook and Twitter to see what people thought, and this is what I got back.

On Facebook, Skylar wrote:

I liked it, very vintage. I have not seen the seasonal ones, but I loved the magic about it, the performance.

And Chris wrote:

Can't believe they made a live action movie about them. Have not seen them in many years. Probably won't see them again until in have little ones to take to the show.

You know what Chris, I can’t believe they did either. Sadly, I own the DVD and still haven’t watched it. I don’t know why really, I guess I’m scarred it’ll just disappoint me. Anyways, I personally think this show is so underrated. Yes, it’s great for kids, but I think it has some magic that creates kids out of any old adult. There’s something infectious from the very first Yehaw! that catches you and changes your age, and you quickly forget all the adult things you’re supposed to do, and are glad to be a kid again.

In fact, today’s audio is from December of 2006, our anniversary trip, so it’s just Traci and I, with no kids yet. It’s been a great day in the parks, the crowds are light, and the afternoon parade is going on, so we duck inside the Country Bear Jamboree and wait the minute or so till the next show. As we wait, I slip back outside to take a few pictures of the passing parade from in front of the building, and then just step right back in as the doors have just opened. We are ushered into the auditorium and take our seats. This is where we’ll join the podcast. We’ll sit for a minute till everyone has found their seats (there aren’t that many of us today because most folks are watching the parade outside) and then the show begins.

Memory 050 - Test Track

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 20:12
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It’s finally here, 50 shows. It seems like only yesterday I began this podcasting journey. In reality it’s been almost 5 years. You may not know this, but I released my first episode back on September 21, 2006. I started out with good intentions, hoping every week I would release a new show, but I quickly realized that took far more free time than I had, and I quickly attempted to switch to a bi-weekly format. Sadly over the years I’ve released on a very inconsistent schedule, and that get’s us to where we are today, 50 shows (plus some bonus ones) in 5 years, but I’ve hopefully found a rhythm now, and feel like things are getting more consistent. And it seems to be paying off too, as our numbers are starting to grow. So I thought I’d take this moment to welcome all my new subscribers, and maybe reintroduce myself and this show.

So to recap, my name is Lou. I’ve been a lifelong Disney fan, but it really took hold probably in my teenage years. Our family began making day trips to Walt Disney World when we’d go to beach in Clearwater, FL every year, and I soon came to love everything that the parks had to offer. The music, the rides, and the theming are always the gold standard I compare everything too, and it became a hobby of mine to keep up to date on rumors, to read all I could on the history of the parks and Walt Disney himself, and to collect all the pictures I could find of the parks. Then technology caught up, and a personal website was born. I could share my pictures and thoughts on the parks. I also became a Disney Store Cast Member, and continued to fan the flame of my passion there. At some point, I earned a free pass to the parks through work, and decided before I went over that I wanted to record some of the musical acts that I loved in the park. I picked up a MiniDisc recorder, and a cheap microphone and went to the park. I got a few good recordings of the live acts, but thought I’d try it out also on a couple of attractions, and soon discovered I could see the ride in my “minds-eye”, and feel just like I was there while I was listening. I’ve upgraded equipment over the years, now using Binaural Earbuds to get a true life representation of what I hear, and now I don’t take a trip to the parks without my recorder running.

Through the years I’ve shared these recordings online through many different sources, but when Podcasting came along, I soon realized this was my ideal medium for sharing. I began this podcast as a way to share my time in the Parks, riding rides, or catching shows in a live format as a way to allow you the listenter to experience it as if you were sitting right there. I don’t actually live in Orlando, so my recordings are not always up to date, but I like to think that they are still timeless really. So if you have a favorite show or ride, going back to the past even, I might have some recording of it somewhere.

So that’s enough about the past, let’s get on with this weeks memory. Today we’re going to visit that great thrill attraction at Epcot, Test Track. This request was from an email I received an email from Brendan back in February. He wrote:

I love the roar of the motors and the wind blowing on my face and screaming in my ears as I go whizzing around the track.although my favorite part has to be when you supposedly go through a wall and they snap your picture ,although I always have my head down.

Now Dan pointed out on Facebook that this doesn’t really translate to an audio only podcast, but that’s the beauty of using your memories in conjuction with my audio. I want you to close your eyes and in your minds eye you’ll be able to relive that memory too.

Daniel on Twitter thought:

Absolutely the GREATEST ride in Epcot!! Can't wait to hear this!!

Richard said on Facebook:

I would like to hear it

Robert said on Facebook:

Awesome

Personally, I’m with all of you guys. I don’t know why I love this ride, but I do. I have a car, I drive it on the highway every day, but for some reason I love riding this ride. I guess who doesn’l love hi-banked turns at 65 mph in a convertible? Or maybe it’s the wind whipping through my hair? I don’t know, but it’s pretty much a don’t miss when in Epcot.

Anyways, today’s recording is in Binarual as usual. It’s May 2007, and Traci and I are joined today by my in-laws. It’s been a beautiful day and we’ve been having a great time at the Flower and Garden Festival in Epcot, and are planning to Park-Hop over to the Magic Kingdom for some fun this evening. We’ve done quite a few rides and shows as crowds are light, but we’re still going to utilize our FastPass for Test Track, and get to jump strait to the pre-show pens with no wait. We’ll join this memory outside the pre-show area as they’ve got a large group of us waiting for the doors to open. Soon, they open up for us, and we cram into the littleroom to see the pre-show video explaining what’s about to happen. We’ll stick with the audio in the following short queue (I may cut some of it out) and then we’ll take our exhilarating ride around the GM Testing Facilities with Test Track.

Memory 049 - 2010 Walt Disney World Trip Report and The Seas with Nemo & Friends

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 43:59
Download

In September 2010, my family (consisting of my dad, sister, Traci, and Susie) all went to Walt Disney World for the day. This was Susie's first trip into a Walt Disney World park, and she loved it. Today's podcast is a 3 parter. First we're going to relive the day with various audio clips from the park as I recount the days activities.

Then we'll get to hear what Susie thought of her first trip to Walt Disney World. Finally we'll finish with a special ride on The Seas with Nemo and Friends in Epcot (Susie's favorite part of the day). I hope you enjoy listening to me as I remember a great day in Walt Disney World.

Memory 048 - Festival of the Lion King

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Stereo Audio **
Time: 37:10
Download

I’m not sure about you, but it’s hot here. We’re in the midst of a record heatwave, something that reminds me a lot of Walt Disney World, and in my opinion the hottest of the parks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom. However, thanks to modern technology, our memory today can be enjoyed from the comfort of a highly air-conditioned room, sipping your favorite cool beverage. What’s worse (and thankfully I never experienced this) our memory today is of a show that used to be in an outdoor arena in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I’m speaking of course of Festival of the Lion King.

Our request today is still from a ways back (we’re catching up though) and was sent in by Kyle. He wrote:

“...I would love to request Festival of the Lion King ... I guess the reason is that I love the lion king and seeing all of the songs performed in a huge show is just fantastic!... And the tumble monkeys haha”

Of course I tossed the topic out to Facebook and Twitter again and got the following responses. Chelsea said “she’s never been” and Dan said:

“No no please no....sorry to be so blunt”

Sorry Dan, but Kyle asked, and personally I like it. Purely from a talent stand point, there are some phenomenal singers in this show, and depending on the day, you can get a great show, or just a so so one.

This memory, I think is somewhere in the middle however. It’s Christmastime in 2001, the parks are pretty quiet (September 11 was just 3 months prior) and we actualy arrive just as the show is about to start. We’ll actually jump strait in. My Dad, brother, sister, and I are seated in the Warthog section, just about where the bleachers reach the floor. The music starts, the singers emerge, and our show begins.

Memory 047 - El Rio del Tiempo / Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 28:32
Download

We’re rolling along through our request list still, and it’s feeling good. I’ve had so many requests over the years, and I’m glad to finally be getting caught up. And to celebrate the United States Independence Day, let’s visit that very patriotic pavilion... Mexico in Epcot.

Yeah ok, so not so well planned out on my part, but this request has been waiting for a while. Once again, we’re going back a few years (to 2009 to be exact) to a request from John on the Jersey Shore in New Jersey. He wrote:

I would like a hear a podcast of the Mexico ride in Epcot, originally El Rio del Tiempo - The River of Time, and now reopened as "Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros!". It's is a very colorful, festive and pleasant ride and [a great way to] unwind after a long day at Disney World and it is one of my favorites when we visit.

Later, I got an email from Stan saying:

We have a request. Could you please do “The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros”? It is one of our favorite rides. We love the relaxed, fun atmosphere that the boat and animation offer and enjoy watching for the hidden Mickey at the volcano.

And just recently I received another email, this time from Amanda in Barcelona, Spain saying she too would love to hear El Rio del Tiempo. So finally it’s time to fulfill these requests.

Like last time, I tossed it out to our Facebook Page members and Twitter followers to see if there was any thoughts and this is what I got back.

On twitter @DPackerFan says:

After WDW, Mexico is one of my favorite destinations. [Gran Fiesta Tour] gives me a little bit of that.

So let’s get to it. We’re starting off our memory in spring of 2006. I’m on a solo trip after work, and have headed over to Epcot for a bit of fun (and food of course). We’re going to join this memory as I’m walking up to the building. You’ll hear me climb the stairs into the pyramid, making my way down to the loading area, and it’s a quick walk right up to the boat as there was no wait. At this point in time, we’re still riding the classic El Rio del Tiempo, so you’ll hear some very old sounding audio.

Our second memory is from Susie’s first Walt Disney World trip in September 2010. We’ll again join Susie, Traci, my dad, my sister, and myself as we are moving inside. We just lucked into a meet-n-greet with South American Donald outside, and got our pictures taken with him. Again, the ride line is short due to low crowds this time of year. You’ll hear us discussing the changes, as it’s the first time on Gran Fiesta Tour for my father and sister, and the very first ride on either for Susie. Listen closely for her little voice as we try to point things out to her.

Memory 046 - "it's a small world"

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 42:49
Download

Watch out, I’m on a roll here folks. It’s been only two weeks and I’m back with yet another Memory. At this rate, I might be caught up on my requests by... oh... next year. Ok, so I’ve still got a ways to go, but this is a good start right?

So this is yet again another “old” request. Initially, Chris (our requester from Memory 45) also requested this attraction back in 2009. Since then, I’ve received another request from Andy in NY for a recording of “it’s a small world” from before 2000 (which unfortunately I don’t have).

And again like last time I threw the question out to Twitter and Facebook and got the following responses.

On our Facebook page Barbara wrote:

I love the clock... it opened when I was standing right in front of it.

And we got some feedback on twitter this time, from @DanielWalker116:

one of the all time classics. It isn't a trip unless you ride this!

Thank you all for writing and commenting. I too love this classic attraction. Yes, the song gets stuck in your head, but listen to the words. They have a message that even today still ring true, and how often can you say that of a 60 year old attraction.

So instead of two versions of the attraction over time for Andy, we’re going to catch two rides over space. Today, we’re going bi-coastal. We’re going to start out with a night trip to the Magic Kingdom in January of 2007. Traci has a convention at the Contemporary Resort this week, and after checking in, we head to the Magic Kingdom for some casual fun. It’s not that crowded, considering it’s just a couple days into the New Year. We do have a short wait, and we’ll join up with this Memory in the queue, just before it our turn to ride.

After we finish in Walt Disney World, we’re going to take a jump to our June 2010 trip to Disneyland. It’s been a gorgeous California day. We out here for my brothers wedding, so the whole family decided to take a day at Disneyland a few days before the wedding. We’ll join the group in line again as we’re coming down the ramp to the boats. You’ll hear lots of conversation between the whole group, and unfortunately that doesn’t stop in the ride either. I guess that’s what happens when you get 11 friends and family on a boat all to themselves. Remember what I said about the words, listen to our conversation. We’ve ridden this attraction dozens of times over the years, but it finally hit us.

And this is my first time seeing the new Disney Character Figures that have been added and they are fantastic. I didn’t think I would like them initially, but boy was I wrong. These dolls fit in beautifully, and don’t detract from anything that already existed.

Memory 045 - Ellen's Energy Adventure

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: **39:34**
Download

Hey, it’s been only 2 weeks and I’m already putting out a new show. I know... it’s a miracle. Well I know how much you all appreciate the shows, so I really want to keep this momentum going. So I’ve got my coffee, my computer is warmed up, and the audio is ready to roll, now let’s get this going.

Today’s memory was requested by Chris, in Montreal, Canada. He wrote:

I'm Chris, from Montreal, Canada, and I LOVE your show as well as LOVE WDW and the Disney theme parks, is there a possibility that you have or can you manage to get a copy in binaural of Ellen's Energy Adventure with Cast Member Spiels to go with the Attraction

And For fun, I thought I’d also toss out the question to the Facebook and Twitter followers to see their thoughts on the attraction, and here’s what I got back:

On our Facebook page Tara Lyon wrote:

It's one of our favorites. I just love everything about it. It's cool when you're hot and Jamie lee Curtis is funny!

And on Twitter.... nothing. I guess that’s what happens when you only have 19 followers on Twitter. So come help me grow that number please.

Anyways, thanks Chris and Tara, I’ve been waiting for someone to request this ride. I personally believe it is overlooked far too often, and pretty much utilized for naps and escapes from the extreme weather in Florida.

Unfortunately, as I looked through my archives, I discovered I too have apparently been skipping this attraction. I’ve only got one recording to choose from, and it’s from a solo evening trip in 2006. I’ve been at work all day, and this evening I headed over to Epcot to have a little fun in the parks. I’m actually going to mix in a few seconds from a prior stereo recording because this binaural recording misses the very first line from Ellen. After that, Ellen takes over and introduces us to our back story. Soon a dream begins, and we’ll join Ellen on her adventure.

Memory 044 - Living With The Land

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 27 May 2011 09:00:00 +0000

** Stereo Audio **
** Binaural Audio **
Time: 35:08
Download

I firstly have to apologize for my lack of posts, both on the blog and on the podcast. I think it would be an understatement for me to simply say that life has gotten busy. Between a 5 month old who is now teething, and a 3 year old who has patiently waited for daddy to complete her new swing set, there has been little free time to write and record a new podcast. So I’m trying something new. Instead of my daily 5AM trip to the gym, this week I’m going to try and record an episode and hopefully be able to edit it down during breaks, in order to get it out sooner rather then later. So if I sound a little groggy still, that’s the reason. So let’s get to the reason we’re all listening.

Today’s memory will be one that was requested quite a while ago, and by a few people. Today, we’re going to take a ride on Living With The Land. I have received requests from Dan, Shayne, and Daniel to relive this memory. To make it up to all of you for the delay, I’m going to actually include two memories in one.

Memory one will be from November 2003, and is in Stereo only. Now if you think about it, in 2003 they were still being narrated by a live Cast Member. It’s a rainy day, and my family and I are enjoying a day at the Parks. We’ve been waiting for a while in the queue, and this is where we’ll join the memory. We’re standing in the loading area, and another boat is just pulling away, then it’ll be our turn. You’ll hear my dad, brother and sister all laughing because my dad and I are pretty cramped in the front seat with a couple other people. Anyways, the boat pulls away and the ride begins.

Memory two is from May 2007 and is in Binaural. The recording again begins as we’re waiting to board. It’s flower and garden festival time at Epcot, and Traci and I are waiting to board with her parents. It’s early in the morning, and you’ll hear us discussing what we want to do or see in Epcot today as we look over the brochures. Soon, our Cast Memberless boat arrives, we board into our row and we’re off.

Farewell Mickey’s Toontown Fair

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:00:00 +0000

It seems to me that everyone in the Disney community is bidding farewell to Mickey’s Toontown Fair right now, and I figured I should also offer my thoughts. Ironically, until about a year ago these thoughts and opinions would have been totally different. But now, I have 2 small children.

As I’ve said before, I’ve been traveling to Walt Disney World for many years, mostly trying to cram in as much as we could into a single day. So, for a bunch of adults and teens, a kiddy land with no real rides was a waste of space in my mind. In fact, I’m not sure I even knew how to get to the land for the first few years of its existence. On longer trips (more than a day) with friends or family who had never experienced Disney World, I would bite the bullet and take them in to ride Goofys Barnstormer, and then quickly back out to the “real park” so we wouldn’t miss any more time on the mountains. Then three years ago, that all changed with the birth of my daughter, and on our last trip, I definitely see the value.

Firstly, I love Goofys Barnstormer, and I’m so glad it’s not leaving but just being repurposed. As a kid, I can still remember the first time I got to ride a “real” coaster, and it was one of those coming of age moments in my life. “I am finally big enough to ride an adult like ride, even if it is a smaller scale.” Now the Barnstormer isn’t a great coaster, it’s barely a good one. But on our last visit, Susie looked up at it and asked to ride. Now unfortunately she’s still too small, and I had to tell her not yet. You should have seen her face melt. This is a land for her, how could she not get to ride it? I’m just so glad that it will return in the next version of this land, and someday Susie and Mikey will get that moment where they’ll get to ride a grown-up ride.

Secondly, a closed in play area goes a long way. I never understood why this was so great. What I mean to say is, everyone has parks at home, why would Disney “stoop” to just filling in a space with some things to climb and slide on? Then I took Susie to the parks and I realized, if you spent the day in lines, hearing “don’t climb on that”, “stop pushing them”, “stand here”, or “no running” when that’s what you usually spend your day doing, you’d go mad too. We spent 30 minutes letting Susie run around the playground, and that was the wisest thing we could have done. Here, she was in control of herself, and she could run and do what she wanted, all the while, I could sit and watch her. Then she was a little more willing to stand still when she needed to, because she got to let out some of that pent up energy.

Finally, visiting the houses of the mice and then saying hello to them is magical. If you’ve ever gotten a chance as a kid or an adult to let your imagination go, and believe that this house is where Mickey lives, and that’s he’s just out back waiting to meet you, it will change your outlook on this land. I saw this in my daughter, as we wandered though the houses, and eventually got to meet Mickey and Minnie in the flesh. Susie was just ecstatic, and so was daddy. You could see her trying to envision him sitting on the chair, watching the TV. You could almost hear him singing as he worked in his garden out back. And then when you get to give him a hug in the tent, the image is complete. This was his home.

It’s funny how having a child will change how you look at things. Who knows if I ever would have spent more than five minutes in this land on my own. But now I can now truly say I am sorry to see Mickey’s Toontown Fair go. Farewell Mickey’s Toontown.

Memory 043 - Tomorrowland Transit Authority

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 10:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 16:04
Download

So it’s been snowing out here a lot, and it’s got me thinking about that warm and magical place we all know and love. Yes, I’m dreaming about Walt Disney World again, and dying to relive another memory with you. So as I return to my request queue, I see that this memory is going to be another favorite of mine. Today we’re going to hop a ride on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.

So our request came in a couple of years ago now (yes, I’m that far behind) from Mark in England. He wrote:

Could I please request a recording of the TTA, I know it is out of service for a while but maybe you have a back log of recordings.

He went on to list in a later email some of the reasons why they like the TTA:

We have so many happy memories of this classic ride.

We always say "It's not a holiday until we have been on the "People Mover" as we still call it.

Always our 1st ride in the MK after going for Space Mountain Fastpasses.

We love the relaxing nature of the ride and I love to catch a sneak peek of Space Mountain, especially if the lights are on.

"Tom Morrow" always makes us laugh.

I love Walt's vision of the future scene, I want to live there :-)

We have probably ridden the TTA many hundreds of times over that last 17 years or so.

We cannot resist bouncing on the travelator that takes you up to the loading station

Well Mark, this one has been a long time coming, but here it is finally. Today’s recording is from a single night trip in January 2007. It’s late in the evening, and the Christmas decorations are still up around the park. Traci and I have no wait (as usual), and we’ll begin by stepping onto the ramp and hopping on the loading carousel before being whisked around Tomorrowland on a very relaxing and fun ride.

Becoming more 'Tangled' up in Disney

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:00:00 +0000

So I’m sitting at my desk, digging through code while listening to podcasts on my phone, and up pops the Reduced Shakespeare Company Podcast Episode 212, Disney’s ‘Tangled’ Rapunzel and Episode 213. Epic Two-Parter. It got me to thinking about the night I saw this movie, and the impression it made on me.

Let me begin with why it was so memorable. You see, Traci and I saw Disney's Tangled on a date night, only hours before our son was born. His arrival was a bit of a surprise too, as he was about 2 weeks early. The whole weekend leading up to that Monday night, we had been talking about taking a date day on Friday, and maybe doing some Christmas shopping, but there was something kind of hinting in the back of our minds that maybe we shouldn’t count on that. So throughout the day Monday, we decided we should try to go out that evening. The grandparents were game for watching Susie, Tangled was playing at a perfect time for us to watch it and get back at a decent hour, it was all falling into place.

Dinner was nothing special, a quick stop at a local deli, just so we could make it to the theater in time. We actually arrived about 5 minutes late, and expected that we might have problems with seats. We hustled in from the cold wet night, quickly got tickets and our 3D glasses, and ran back to the theater (well as fast as a 8.5 month pregnant woman could go). Of course, the theater was about as far away as was possible, but we made it. As we headed in, the trailers were still running, “great we haven’t missed anything” I thought, and as we rounded the railing we discovered that seats would not be a problem. The theater was completely empty. We figured out the optimal seats for us, settled in, and put on our 3D glasses. Not another soul joined us all evening. It was great! We could talk out loud and not disturb another person.

The movie was Excellent! Throughout, I couldn’t help think “I’ve seen this before”. This movie to me, was built on great story lines from previous Disney movies. For example, Mother Gothel, reminded me a lot of Judge Claude Frollo from Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame, with the subtle psychological games she’d play with Rapunzel. At another time, I believe Rapunzel was singing, and I could almost see Ariel from The Little Mermaid. Now, there’s nothing wrong with this. These are all great movies as far as I’m concerned, and when you have a good movie with a good story, you’re bound to have similarities. All that to say I don’t think it took away anything from this movie, but quite the contrary, I thought it helped. As it finished, Traci and I looked at each other and both of us were smiling. It was fun, predictable, and romantic, a perfect date movie, and one I’m looking forward to adding to my collection.

As we headed home, neither one of us anticipated that this was our last time out, but thankfully we were both content if it was. Our evening was perfect, a nice dinner, and movie to our selves, and being able to laugh and cry with Disney just hours before the birth of our son is a memory I’ll never forget.

My Disney Memory for 2010

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 15:18:00 +0000

So as the year 2010 comes to a close, I had to stop and ponder what my favorite Disney Memory was from this year. There were so many to choose from. Was it the time I took Susie into the Disney Store in our mall, and all the tears of an active tantrum ceased, and were replaced by a smile that just lit up the room? Was it sitting on the couch with Susie and watching Dumbo for her first time? Nope, neither one of those. This memory was bigger. This memory was huge. This Disney Memory will forever be locked in my head, so I can see it as if I were right there. I’m of course talking about Susie’s first ride on a Disney Attraction, which of course was Dumbo The Flying Elephant in Disneyland. I’ve really already covered this memory back in Memory 041, but I have to touch on it again, because it was so big for both Susie and I. (You could always go back and listen again if you wanted to refresh your Memory)

So the Summer of 2010 brought us to California for my brother’s wedding. Susie had practiced at home, and was all set for her flower girl duties. She was very excited to get out there and do her part. We arrived at the Ontario airport on a Wednesday, and spent the day relaxing with friends, because tomorrow we were going to Disneyland.

Thursday morning arrives, and I’m so excited (and still on East coast time) that I’m awake by 5AM. Both my wife and I get ready, and we’re on the highway headed to Anaheim by 7AM. We’re at the parks after rope drop and make a bee-line back to our first attraction, Dumbo. Susie is a bit fussy, and I can’t really blame her, she was kind of hungry and still not totally awake. As we stand in line, you can see on her face the sort of curiousity as to what is about to happen. What are those elephants doing? Why are all these people climbing in them? What’s this little black feather for? She of course hadn’t seen Dumbo the movie yet, so her understanding of whom Dumbo is, and how the mouse on top of the ride relates to him was only from what I told her. Never the less, she is still a little excited about a ride.

When it’s finally our turn, Susie spirits appear to be better. We let her choose which elephant she wants to ride (pink of course) and we’re off in short order. As we let her control the elephant up and down, the grin is growing bigger and bigger across her face. As the elephants all climb for a final time, she is laughing and doesn’t even realize she no longer has control of Dumbo. When we land, she bounces along the side walk towards the exit. As we exit, the question always has to be asked “So what did you think?” Her answer of course was an enthusiastic, “That was fun!”

There is no other place on earth that I’ve experienced that continually brings a smile to your face. And it’s not just my face, but I’m sure yours as well, as you imagine your loved one bouncing along after their favorite ride, giving an enthusiastic “That was fun!” This is why I share these memories.

So how about you? Do you have a Disney Memory from 2010? Please feel free to share below, I know I'd leave to hear what was your favorite Disney Memory.

Memory 042 - Country Bear Jamboree Christmas Special

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:00:00 +0000

** Mono Video **
Time: 13:13
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For our special Christmas Memory this year, I'm digging deep for one that is really special. So I have recently begun the work of migrating all our old video tapes to DVD. This has unearthed a plethora of special memories, and I found one that is perfect for our special Christmas Memory. This video is of the MIA Country Bear Jamboree Christmas Special.

As I mentioned, I'm converting a bunch of our old family video tapes to DVD, and this tape was probably the reason for my Disney addiction. We used to watch it every week, so there aren't many parts that I don't have memorized. I've been thinking about showcasing this video for a while, and figured this was a perfect time. This tape was from our family trip in 1986, yes, that's almost 25 years ago. So you'll have to forgive the quality of the picture and audio. Digital cameras with stereo audio were not available yet. Also, tapes weren't nearly as cheap, so my father will cut the recording every now and then to save on tape, so it's not a complete recording, but still most of it is here.

So imagine with me a cool evening (daytime temperatures in the 60's). The day is wrapping up, and we're all wearing down. The family is reuniting for one last attraction, catching a family friendly showing of the Country Bears. It's a full house, and we're seated towards the back. The lights dim, and a singular voice to our right begins the first verse of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer". This is where we will join up with this memory.

So I hope you enjoy this video from my childhood, and it reminds you of your very own Walt Disney World Memory. Merry Christmas!

Remembering a Wish

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 09:00:00 +0000

The Holiday Road Podcast (a great Disney binaural podcast) recently released HRP 017 – Wishes. As I was listening to it, I couldn’t help but remember the many fun times I’ve had watching Wishes. I remember watching it with friends on various trips. I remember watching it by myself while in Orlando for Business. But mostly, I remember one very special memory. It was on our Anniversary trip in 2006, and Traci and I actually got to watch Wishes three times on this trip.

The first time was actually from atop the Contemporary Resort as we finished our Anniversary dinner at the California Grille. I had planned ahead, knowing full well a window seat during Wishes would be magical, so at the 90 day mark, you better believe I was calling. I got the reservation, and even though we weren’t garunteed a window seat, I was going to play that Anniversary card as many times as necessary to get it. Sure enough, it worked, and we had a wonderful spot overlooking the Magic Kingdom. We had a most amazing dinner (that’s a story for another post), and after they had served us a special desert, the lights dimmed. We scooted our chairs close, and as the music began, we had a perfect romantic view from our table by the windows.

The second time on this trip we were actually planning to participate in the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and because of that we went to the Magic Kingdom that evening. We were supposed to go to Ohana for dinner earlier (this will play in later), but opted to skip it in lieu of more time in the parks. Well it rained, and rained, but that didn’t cancel Wishes that evening. They began, and again we huddled together to fight off the rain and cold while we watched from the Rose Garden. After a few minutes, it was clear this would not be the best showing, as the smoke and low clouds obscured the view of almost all fireworks beyond the castle, but we didn’t care. Even as it rained, we were happy to be with each other watching Wishes.

After that showing, we realized most of the MVMCP would be canceled since it was raining, so we wanted to see what could be done. The guest services office was packed with other like-minded people, but they worked their way through the people. When it was finally our turn, they were gracious and offered us an exchange for a one day pass to the parks. So as we left the Magic Kingdom we just realized how hungry we were. We decided to just try and see if Ohana would let us in. As we walked up to the check-in desk, they were just turning someone away because they didn’t have room for anyone without a reservation. We explained we missed our reservation (by 3 hours now), and they said no problem. Two minutes later we were seated, next to the windows, with a great view of Cinderella Castle. And to our surprise, as we began our appetizers, the lights dimmed, the music came up, and Holiday Wishes began. We hadn’t missed it after all.

If these were the only memories I had of Wishes, I’d be happy. But this past September, we got to take Susie for her first trip to Walt Disney World. We’d had a busy day, and were quite tired. So we staked out a spot on the bridge to Tomorrowland about 15 minutes before the start and just relaxed. As the fireworks began, I picked Susie up and held her in my arms as we watched. With the finish of each movement, she would just applaud and smile. But when Tinker Belle flew right over her head, you would think she was going to float away as she just bounced with joy, pointing skyward at Tinkerbell. As the last firework faded, Traci and I gave Susie a hug, and she said “those were some good fireworks”. I will never forget these memories and will cherish them always.

As a reminder, you can always listen again to Memory 10 - The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular for my Memory of Wishes, or make sure you check out HRP 017 – Wishes of the Holiday Road Podcast.

So how about you? How has the magic of Wishes touched your life? Do you have a favorite time watching it with a special someone? Make sure you tell me about it below.

Reliving a Chocolate Memory

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 22:00:00 +0000

One thing I wanted to do with my blog is also comment on other podcasts that trigger a memory of my own.

This week, on the Inside the Magic podcast, Ricky took a weekend trip up to Hershey Park. In the show, he talks about his time in the parks, but specifically spends a good portion talking about the Hershey Factory Tour. I kind of equate this tour to riding Imagination at Epcot. It has a hokey and fun attitude towards the subject matter, not taking itself too seriously, but keeping it entertaining for all ages. In any case, watching the video and listening to Ricky discuss his trip quickly triggered many memories for me of Hershey Park.

I can remember one trip that was around Christmastime of 2003. My good friends and I took a trip, and headed over to Hershey Park in PA for the day. It was kind of cold and wet, so the park was relatively empty. The park is no Disney, that’s for sure, but it’s still a great deal of fun. On this day we got there, did most of the rides that we wanted too (those that wouldn’t freeze us), caught some of the shows, and called it a day. On another trip, I can still remember the day started out cool, and quickly went to COLD. By midday, everyone had run to their nearest shop and bought a blue Hershey’s Sweatshirt. I’d say 2 out of every 3 guest that day was wearing one by the end of the day. I bet they blew through most of their inventory that day.

So tell me, what do you think of Hershey Park? Do you have a favorite memory?

Memory 041 - Disneyland Trip Report and Dumbo

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 21:00:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 39:38
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Earlier this year we took a trip to California which included 2 days at the Disneyland Resort. In this memory, we revisit that trip with commentary by both Lou and Susie (Traci opted out this time). After the trip review, stay tuned for a special audio clip of Susie's first Disney ride, Dumbo the Flying Elephant.

Memory 040 - Mickey's PhilharMagic

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 16:02:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 21:15
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It’s another beautiful day, and my plans have already changed. I was thinking this would be a fun time to review my days at Disneyland, but that’s going to have to wait, at least for one more week. Instead I’m going to bring you another request. This one came from a pair people. Both Chris from Montreal, and Denise. And Denise was kind enough to share her memory of Mickey’s PhilharMagic with us:

I was in Disney World in 2000 for my honeymoon and I did not get back until I went with my Mom and Aunt in Feb 2006. It was a very long 6 years to wait. I had Mickey's Philharmagic (and others) on a mp3 download that I found on the web and listened to them ALOT. When we finally got there, this was the first thing that we did when we arrived. As I was sitting there watching it, I was remembering how many times I had sat at my desk, listening to it and now I was actually sitting here watching it in person. I did start to tear up..... So this will always be one of my favorites because it was the first memory of a long over due trip.

Well Denise and Chris, here’s your request. We’re visiting a memory from 2006, and it’s the anniversary trip. Traci and I have barely begun our day in the Magic Kingdom, working our way around from Tomorrowland. We stop in and only have to wait for a short period before it’s our turn. We’ll jump into the memory as we start walking up through the queue area, and into the holding space just before the doors open automagically towards us.

Memory 039 - Prairie Drifters

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 01:20:00 +0000

** Mono Audio **
Time: 28:37
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So I’m back from California and boy what a trip. Disneyland is really a special place, and I think I have managed to fall more in love with Disney California Adventure, even without seeing the new World of Color show. But my trip report is for another podcast. Let’s just say, I’ll take Walt Disney World over Disneyland, but take either one of those way before the next park.

So today is going to be a special show, but before I forget yet again, let me start off with some housekeeping. I’ve been branching out on the social media realms a lot recently. It first started by getting my own fan page on Facebook (Facebook.com/WaltDisneyWorldMemories). Then I branched out to Twitter (@WDWMemoriesLou). Now I’ve even got my own voicemail line 336-WDW-MEM0 (336-939-6360). So you now have many ways to reach me, leave me feedback, find out what I’m doing, and of course make a request. So feel free to reach out to me through any of these mediums, and don’t hesitate to pass the word around. I’d love to see our fan base grow.

Now on with the actual memory. Today’s memory is one of my own requests. I was looking through my audio collection, trying to find something patriotic that I haven’t done before, and finally found something. As I figure, Frontierland is kind of Old Americana, so I thought “What can I do from there that’s different”? Have you ever heard of the Prairie Drifters? I’m not sure where these guys ended up, but back in 1998 they could be found in the Diamond Horseshoe. This was a daily show consisting of 4 guys playing 4 stringed instruments (Guitar, Banjo, Fiddle, and Bass). They were some of the most talented musicians I’ve seen, and well worth the catching the show. In fact, on the night of this memory, I caught them twice.

So back in 1998, I was in Orlando for a convention, so of course I went to the parks in my spare time. This evening, I had gotten a Turkey leg, and gone upstairs to watch from the balcony as the show happened. I started the recorder just as the show began, but unbeknownst to me, my battery was low, and halfway through the show, it died (that will be the end of our first memory). I realized later my audio was cut short, so I decided to return to see the Prairie Drifters again that evening. The next show I was ready, but again audio troubles plagued me, and I managed to overwrite some of my audio, losing a good chunk of the second set. So this isn’t the best audio, or even a full show. It’s not even in Stereo, but it’s something that is gone and very much missed, and a bit of the American Old West.

Memory 038 - Reflections/Wonders of China

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 29 May 2010 20:44:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio ** ** Stereo Audio **
Time: 44:28
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Well it’s been a long time. My work has been absorbing all of my week days, meaning the weekends go to my family, so that unfortunately has left me with little time left over for hobbies. But that’s beginning to change, and I’m hoping to get back to my every other week format of podcasting, but we’ll just have to see.

Now before we get into the memory, I have a big announcement. I’M GOING TO DISNEYLAND. That’s right, not Disney World, Disneyland. In June I’ll be making a trip to California for my brothers wedding and our family vacation. Part of that, will of course be a couple of days in Disneyland, where I hope to collect some memories that I can share with you.

But back to the the show. Today we’re back to our orignial format, and that means requests. Today’s request completes that email from Brian. His last request was for the Wonders of China movie. And I do believe he hasn’t been the only one to make that request. So this is one we should all enjoy. It’s going to involve two stops at the China Pavilion in Epcot. The first one is in December of 2001. This is a stereo memory, in which we’ll jump right in to the movie. We’ll meet up with my family just as we’re getting the last of the warnings about the theater, and the movie begins. The second memory is from May 2007. In this binaural memory (headphones on) we happen up on Si Xian who is playing some folk music before the movie begins. My wife, my inlaws, and I take our spot and the movie begins again.

Now you may ask, why 2 versions. Well in 2003, Disney changed the movie from Wonders of China to Reflections of China. The moves have some similarties, but there are noticible differences. It’s not quite as drastic as say Canada, but it is noticeable.

Memory 037 - A Free Day Trip Report

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 22:03:00 +0000

** Binaural Audio **
Time: 47:15
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So I’m branching out a little bit this time. Today, we’re not going to have a show completely devoted to audio like we normally do. This time, we’re going to have a quick trip report.

On this past December 27, I had the privelage of spending my birthday at Walt Disney World… sort of. A Few years ago we took a chance and actually went into the parks on my Birthday and that was a big mistake. We made it to the Animal Kingdom early, but by the time we made it to Epcot before Noon, the crowds were already getting Crazy. I’ll never forget that Soarin’ had a 210 minute wait, and we later found out all the parks but Epcot had closed their gates that day. So we opted not to do that again, and try getting some of that Disney Chritmas Magic just by going to the various Resorts and seeing their decorations. I’m going to try my best to recap for you the days events as my family, consisting of my wife Traci, our daughter Susie, and her Grandma and two Grandpas wander around the resorts.

Memory 036 - American Vybe Christmas

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 19:52:00 +0000

** Stereo Video **
Time: 15:01
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So today is Christmas, and as is my tradition, I like to do a little something special. This year, I’ve been going through a bunch of the old family video tapes and came across a video of our trip to Walt Disney World in Christmas of 2000, and smack in the middle of the tape is a recording of the entire show of American Vybe. The best part is, I have the audio recording for this video (you can see me sitting on the floor right in front)

So, it’s two days after Christmas, the parks are busy, and they’ve got a full house. The video actually starts off behind the singers, but my brother quickly realizes he won’t see anything from back there, so he moves around front. The audio is a combination of the two feeds (from the camera and from my mike) and is in stereo sound.

Memory 035 - O Canada!

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:46:00 +0000

**Binaural **
Time: 28:22
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Today’s request came from a couple people. First, this attraction was mentioned in the same email I received from Brian in episode 34. But it was also requested by Denise. Again these requests came in a long time ago, but I’m glad to be able to get to them now. Their request was for O’ Canada at the Canadian Pavilion in Epcot. Denise said:

I remember hearing about the change to the movie in Canada before we went down there. And as much as I like the rides and shows to stay the same, sometimes it is good when they are updated. And I was really looking forward to the new movie with Martin Short.

Well Denise, I’m sorry but I haven’t been down to Disney World since the recent change in the movie to Martin Short. In fact, today’s binaural memory comes from my last trip to Disney. It’s a perfect spring day in May 2007. Traci (who’s 4 months pregnant) and I are joined by her parents today. We arrive a little bit before the doors open, so we get to sit on the barrels and wait. Our hostess will welcome us, warning us about the feeling of motion, and then lets us in. You’ll hear my father-in-law mention the sound from the old projectors, and my wife comments about the quality of the pictures compared with the then new Planet: Earth series. I can only imagine the redone video has improved some of these things. In any case, the lights dim and we’re treated to what was probably my favorite 360° show in all of Epcot.

Memory 034 - The Hall of Presidents

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:07:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 40:04
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Today’s request comes from my good friend Brian, again about a year ago (I sound like Hotchberg). His request was for Hall Of Presidents (amongst others). His request was simple, just a

I’d Like to hear the Hall of Presidents

Well it’s a little late, but it couldn’t be more appropriate. As we American’s give thanks for our country, it’s great to reflect on the freedoms that were and are being defended by our leaders. This show, while some consider boring *caugh Iago*, I personally find it interesting. It’s not my favorite attraction, and often times I’ll just use it to avoid a storm, but I always come out grateful for the 30 minutes I just spent inside.

So today’s audio is a special one. I sadly haven’t been back to WDW in almost 3 years now, so I don’t have the latest incarnation. To make up for it, I’m sharing the previous two editions. We’ll start by revisiting a stereo memory from August 1999 on a trip with my family. The current narrator is Maya Angelou, and President Clinton gives a speech. We’ll then jump to a binaural memory from that same 2006 anniversary trip with my wife, and get to hear the narration by J. D. Hall and a speech given by President Bush. Both audio clips start as the show begins. Sadly I haven’t realized how much fun just hearing the queue/wait areas are yet, and just started recording right when the show begins. It’s still good audio though.

Memory 033 - Muppet Vision 3D

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:18:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 31:03
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LOU'S NOTE: I just realized I call this Memory 31. It's actually #33. Don't worry you haven't missed something.

Today’s request comes from my good friend Jessica, oh… about a year ago (sorry Jessica). Her request was for MuppetVision 3D. She wrote:

“I also have one request. I would love to hear any audio you have from Muppetvision 3D in Hollywood Studios… I used to watch the Muppet Show when I was little, it was one of my favorite shows. When I went to Disney for the first time in 2002, that 3D show was the first show that I saw. Not only was it a hilarious show, but it was my first exposure to the amazing 3D technology that Disney uses and I was completely impressed with the quality of the show. It is one of my favorite shows in WDW. I also think that the preshow before hand, with the three televisions in the queue room, is so funny! My little sister loves to quote from it.”

Of course I’m with you Jessica. MuppetVision is far more than just a 3D movie and is truly one of the funniest attractions in the parks. There is so much to see and do here. As a word of advice, take your time and walk through the queue looking everywhere. Check out all of the waiting room during the pre-show, and catch the whole pre-show. If you have to wait a cycle to see it, just do it. It’s so worth it.

In any case, the audio we’ll hear today is from the infamous anniversary trip to Walt Disney World in 2006. We’ve just stepped inside the show building and the pre-show has already started. Sadly we missed the very beginning with the guys getting the sponsor logo strait, and on walks Scooter looking at the 3 different screens. The show progresses from there, and we’re ushered into the main auditorium shortly after, and the laughs continue. The show goes off without a hitch and we exit out to the right.

Memory 032 - The Magic of Disney Animation

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 21:23:00 +0000

**Mono Audio**
Time: 11:50
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Today's memory is for me. With the death of Walter Cronkite, I thought it would be fun to listen to one of the attractions in which he had been featured, The Magic of Disney Animation. Today's audio is from 1998, and not that great, but it's one of the only recordings out there that I know of. I recorded it on a solo trip, and it was part of the reason I began recording attraction audio.

Memory 031 - Jungle Cruise

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 09 May 2009 20:50:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 41:20
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So today’s request came from 2 people. First was Jason and his family from Ramsey, MN:

Our family (wife and daughter (age 8)) really enjoy listening and reliving the happy memories of our past trips. We especially like the Carousel of Progress memory. We are wondering if you would be willing or able to do a Jungle Cruise memory?

I later received this request from Lottie in Wiltshire, England:

I would like to request a well loved ride for you to release. I really like Jungle Cruise, and the way the tour guides crack their' own personal jokes that makes the ride that little bit different and special each time. The ride includes lots of fun scenarios that I can never get enough of, and I consider it as one of my most entertaining rides in the whole of WDW. I remember one time when a crazy driver let me control the boat... I was scared silly, but it was really fun!

First off, thank you both for writing in. The Jungle Cruise is a classic attraction, which is one that is made by the captain of your boat. A good captain, and you won’t want to get off. A bad captain, and you’re apt to jump out and just swim back (by the way, I don’t suggest doing that unless you want to see how quickly you can leave the Magic Kingdom). Again, this is another of my favorite attractions, and a must do on every visit to the Magic Kingdom.

Because of my delay in getting this out, I’m going to throw in two memories for the price of one. The first memory came from our great trip to WDW for our anniversary in 2006. It’s a beautiful afternoon and we’ve slipped into a short line to catch a ride on the Jungle Cruise. We are lucky today and get a great skipper named EJ. He does a bunch of the classic jokes, but some of his own hit the mark too. Just listen to the rest of the boat, they’re obviously enjoying it. The second memory came a month later on an overnight trip in January 2007 where we went to the Magic Kingdom for a few hours of fun. This time we’ll get more queue audio, and again we get a skipper who keeps us laughing as he deviates a little more from the script.

Memory 030 - Expedition Everest

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 01:43:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 7:40
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So today’s request came from both Andrew and Silvio. Andrew wrote:

next time you go back to WDW can u get a recording of Expedition Everest. It has to be my favorite ride in all of WDW because of how dark it is when you go backwards. i love the g-forces, because that’s just what i am known for. but the drop is just as amazing. it was my first big roller coaster.

And Silvio said:

The sound is just great. I was wondering if you have any recordings of Expedition Everest? Expedition Everest is my favorite ride.

First off, thank you both for writing in. This is probably one of my all time favorite roller coasters. From the moment I heard about it, I was intrigued.

Well today you get to join Traci and I as we take our family for our first ride on Expedition Everest. It’s a cool morning in December 2006 and we quickly make our way back to the back of the park for our first ride. We have never ridden before, but seen all the TV specials and heard other riders experience. However, this doesn’t change our enjoyment level.

Memory 029 - Off Kilter

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:50:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 1:04:21
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Today’s request came from Kirsty of Norwich, England. She wrote:

A second request is Off Kilter, we saw these guys in kilts on our last day … I'd never heard anything like the sound of bagpipes in a rock/celtic band! It was a great 20 mins to end our trip in Walt Disney World!

So for those of you who think the name sounds familiar, yes Christy was one of our requests in episode 26 for the Dapper Dans. This request for Off Kilter is something I’ve been waiting for. Off Kilter is one of my favorite bands at Epcot, and all of Disney World for that matter. Their style and sound is something very unique and not heard almost anywhere else.

So today, we’re going to slip into 3 different memories. Our First, was recorded back in 1998 on a trip with my family. The audio is not great as I only had a mono microphone. I’ll do some editing to make it appear in stereo, but it’s not true stereo. Our family was walking around World Showcase and the concert started, so we’ll get to hear the first couple of songs, then we move on. Memory two is also from 1998. The audio is again in mono, and I will adjust that again. This time we’ll get to hear the entire set, start to finish. Finally, Memory three is from 2006 on our anniversary trip, and therefore in Binaural, so headphones on. From what I can remember, the band has not changed at all since 1998. There is some new music, but like before, it’s just pure fun in Canada.

Memory 028 - Impressions de France

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:21:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 25:24
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Today’s request came from Brian Hendricks of Springfield, IL. He wrote:

I have a MAJOR request: I would LOVE to hear the "Impressions de France" movie at Epcot. It is a classic, and it was one of the inspirations behind my choosing France as the honeymoon site for me and my wife 5 years ago. Even if I can never get a video copy of this movie, the music of "Impressions de France" is the main reason I am requesting it. It is outstanding. In fact, Disney had received so many questions about the music for this movie that they issued a memo / press release that showed all the titles that were used. I would be forever grateful to you for doing this one!

First off, Brian, thank you for your patience. To give you all an idea how long he’s been waiting for this audio… well let’s just say my baby girl isn’t that old. So Brian, at long last, here’s your request.

Today’s memory is from the spring of 2007. Traci and I took a day trip with her parents to Disney from their house in Tampa to enjoy some of the Flower and Garden Festival, and the evening at the Magic Kingdom. This memory is in Binaural, so headphones on. We’ll start out in the waiting area where we’re seated on the carpet as we get the announcement that the doors are about to open and we can enter. Shortly the curtains open, and we’re transported from our seats in Epcot to the countryside of France.

Memory 027 - Fantasyland Dark Rides

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:51:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 19:25
Download

Now, this weeks Memory was requested by Chris. This is the same Chris that requested Fantasmic, back on Memory 23. He wrote:

do you have any plans of doing any of the other dark rides? Maybe a show dedicated to all of the Magic Kingdom’s dark rides…

Well Chris, here you go. Today we’re going to visit the three remaining dark rides in the Magic Kingdom, just because they’re all so short.

We’ll start with The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. We’ll jump into this memory on a beautiful sunny day in December 2006. We find ourselves standing in a short line, just about to board. When it’s our turn, we hop in the back of our car quickly, and we’re wisked off on an adventure through the pages of Winnie the Pooh.

Next we’ll jump into a memory from a cool evening on a day trip in January 2007. As we enter this memory, we find ourselves in line for Snow White’s Scary Adventures. Again, the line is quick as everyone is staking out spots for the upcoming fireworks. Then it’s our turn, we hop in the back seat again of our mine car and we’re off on an Adventure as Snow White.

Finally, we’ll end this show with a return to a memory from December 2006. It’s a cool evening, and the line has shrunk enough that we’re going to catch a ride on Peter Pan. We jump into this memory as we’re nearing the front of the line and about to board. As we climb into our ship, the excitement builds as we’re about to ride my favorite dark ride. Then we’re off, out the window, and into the London night sky.

Memory 026 - Dapper Dans

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 03:36:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 14:04
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Alright, it’s been almost a month, and I’ve been slacking off. I’m sorry. In any case, today’s Memory is a good one. It was requested by Kirsty of Norwich, England. She wrote in and said:

My request is not a ride or an attraction, so to say, its more of entertainment; my request is the Dapper Dans. Again, during my recent visit, we saw these guys for the first time, on the last day of our holiday. They were so great, even posing for photos while they were singing!

Kirsty also went on to ask for a second musical act which we’ll get to in a later show. Unfortunately Kirsty, the Magic Kingdom is the one park I don’t have much as far as street entertainers from. I will recommend my buddy Brian from the Mousin’ It Up Podcast as a great resource for these guys. That said, I do have some audio of the Dapper Dans. In fact, I’ve got two memories for us to enjoy.

The first memory is in stereo and is an abbreviated one. It was recorded on a trip I took back in 2001. It was a blustery afternoon with a storm rolling in as I entered the Magic Kingdom. After passing under the Railroad, and around the main square, I saw them up ahead on the corner. They were already started, so I missed the beginning of the set. And unfortunately because of that storm, I had to leave early, so we’ll get a couple of songs.

The second memory is also an abbreviated one, though this one’s from the anniversary trip in 2006, and therefore in Binaural. It’s a beautiful morning as we enter the Magic Kingdom, and like every other morning, you’ll find the Dan’s singing to guests as you walk down Main Street. Again, we stop only for a few songs, cause otherwise we’ll have to wait forever for Space Mountain. Of course as we walk up, the Dans started talking to us, asking us where we’re from. They’re just so much fun. Unfortunately they couldn’t think of any songs about North Carolina, but that doesn’t stop them from singing.

The Mousin’ It Up podcast can be found at: http://bbdp.libsyn.com/

Memory 025 - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:17:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 23:21
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Today’s Memory was requested by Nick from London, he wrote:

As for a request I would love to hear Big Thunder Mountain (including queue music) also definitely if you could walk down the tunnels of Space Mountain!! So I would definitely like to request Big Thunder and Space Mountain!!

He went on to explain:

I personally like Big Thunder and Space Mountain for the inside queue area music are among the best at WDW! Firstly Space Mountain – I don’t think you can beat the sounds of the tunnels as you proceed towards the loading area – it is so deep and mystic! Brings back a flood of memories from when I first went on it at 9 years old – both petrified and excited. Same goes for Big Thunder – I love queuing here especially early in the morning as the day warms up!, the sound of bluegrass and the distant sound of trains and the Mississippi river boat horn just put you in the old west!

Nick, your wish is my command. I’m with you. I just didn’t realize how much that music puts me back in the Magic Kingdom. It’s so simple, but that’s what I’m trying to share here. It’s these Memories that trigger emotions and thoughts of fun and happy times, be it from child hood, or your trip last week. It’s always fun to go back and look forward to your next return.

So today’s memory is again in Binaural, so headphones on. It was recorded on our anniversary trip in 2006. As we slip into this memory, we’re just entering the line and walking up the hill. You’ll hear the music pick up as you look out over sculpted mountain that resembles something from Monument Valley National Park. As you watch a couple coasters fly by, reaching a top speed of 40 miles per hour, you’ll hear the screams of the riders. I think we had fast passes, cause we don’t spend too much time in line, and we’re soon being ushered into our spots, but let’s take the very front instead. So we get to wait an extra cycle, and then we’re off.

Next we’ll be transported to our second memory of the day, a ride on Space Mountain. It’s mid-day and the sun was bright, so as we get inside, you’ll hear Traci and I discussing how dark it really was inside. You’ll get to hear about 2 minutes of queue music, and then I’ll cut us to the front of the line. It’s our turn to ride this attraction build first for Walt Disney World. We climb in and are taken up to the top of the track, past the space men, then it’s blast off into the darkness, only reaching a top speed of 28 miles per hour this time.

MoustGuest Weekly podcast can be found at: http://www.mouseguest.com/

12 Memories of Christmastime: Memory 12 - Christmas Tree Lighting

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 15:35:00 +0000

**Binaural Video**
Time: 10:54
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12 Days of Christmas, Memory 12, Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree Lighting: On the night of our Anniversary in December 2006, we had a bit of time before our dinner reservations at the California Grille, so we rode the monorail over to the Magic Kingdom and caught the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony that occurs at the head of Main Street.

12 Memories of Christmastime: Memory 11 - Candelight Service

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 13:16:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 54:41
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12 Days of Christmas, Memory 11, Epcot Candlelight Service: Today we’re going to attend the Epcot Candlelight service. It’s a beautiful evening and we take our seats in the middle of the theater near the trees. Our guest host tonight is one of mine (and Traci’s) favorite Christian artists, Steven Curtis Chapman. The announcer comes on, and the orchestra begins their holiday medley as the show begins.

Join us tomorrow for our Final Christmas Memory.

Find Steven Curtis Chapman at: http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/

12 Memories of Christmastime: Memory 10 - 4 For A Dollar

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 16:53:00 +0000

**Binaural Audio**
Time: 13:58
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12 Days of Christmas, Memory 10, 4 For a Dollar: As we exited the backstage tour, what do my wondering ears should hear but 4 men singing in perfect harmony. That’s right 4 For A Dollar was performing in the flatbread grille area, to a less than enthusiastic crowd. Traci and I quickly high-tail it over and take a seat near the front. The guys sing 3 more songs to which Traci and I are quite amazed. Afterwards, all four of them walk over to us and chat with us for about 2 minutes (which you’ll get to hear at the end of the recording). Fortunately for us, nobody else was really paying them much attention, because they are one of the best musical groups in all of Walt Disney World, and we got almost a private showing. Anyways, here’s 4 For a Dollar.

Join us tomorrow for our next Christmas Memory.

Find 4 For A Dollar / Return 2 Zero at: http://www.return2zero.net/

12 Memories of Christmastime: Memory 09 - Lumberjack Nowell in Canada

Podcast@WDW-Memories.net (WDW-Memories Lou) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 13:24:00 +0000

**Stereo Audio**
Time: 7:24
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12 Days of Christmas, Memory 09, lumberjack Nowell: We are seated right in front of his speaker as the lumberjack comes around the corner. He makes his way up to the platform and begins to change clothes. He looks kind of familiar to me, don’t you think?