May 2008 - Just not coming Fast enough - Pre trip Report

[libinatorsmom]

:confused: Well this is my 1st attempt at a pre-trip report - but after reading all the great trip reports I figure maybe someone will benefit from mine like I have from others.... Granted its still 11 mos until we venture - I have a lot to plan... dont I:confused3 This will be our 1st WDW trip as a family... my DH and DD 1st trip ever... This will alway be my hubbys and my 1st vacation together EVER!!! We have been maried 6 years... never had a honeymoon or anything...

THE CAST:

Me: Janel - DW 29 I have been to Disney 3 times as a kid - last time in 1996 with my mom and little brother - I have never stayed on site and cant wait!!!! I cry when i watch the Disney Planning DVD - thinkng about sharing such a magical place with our dughter.

DH: James - 31 - never been to Disney - hes about as excited as I am - he is looking forward to EATING - at all the wonderful Disney Resturants - cant wait to see our daughters look on her face when she sees the castle. :cutie: i dont think he relizes what hes in for and how much he will enjoy himself!!!

DD: Libby - 4 - (she will be 4 when we go...) she is obessed with everything PRINCESS!!! :wizard: and is all girl... and we love it... I do hope she enjoys this trip as much as we think she will.. and we hope she grows two more inches before we leave... shes at 40 inches right now - and I noticed a lot of the rides have a 42 inch cut off... ;)

Dates: We are planning on going May 9, 2008 through May 17, 2008.

Excitement Level: We are excited already and cant even book our trip yet officially!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :rotfl2:

I need to figure out how to post pictures!!! and Get you my info posted - :woohoo: Wish me luck!!!! I will post our planning ideas and guides and would love opinions!!!!! How do I post my Trip Report to my signature????

Goals: have a great trip, DW to loose at least 10 pounds :yay:, get 1000 posts before our trip on DIS boards!!!!

:confused: May 2008 is just not coming fast enough!!!! Will it ever get here...

[ILMICKEY]

Hey!! Let me help. Now you only need 998!!

Wow, that IS a long time away. But you are right, it is never too early to plan.

Where are you going to stay?

No, it will never get here!! I am going in November and it still isn't here, so I am sure May 2008 will never come either:rotfl2: !! I know, it seems like forever. This gives you plenty of time to plan everything perfect!!

[libinatorsmom]

Hey!! Let me help. Now you only need 998!!

Wow, that IS a long time away. But you are right, it is never too early to plan.

Where are you going to stay?

No, it will never get here!! I am going in November and it still isn't here, so I am sure May 2008 will never come either:rotfl2: !! I know, it seems like forever. This gives you plenty of time to plan everything perfect!!

We hope to stay at Beach Club - though its been a pain in the rump as hubby and I cant totally agree on that one... LOL... I keep telling him we will have a great time no matter where we stay.. BUT... LOL... :rolleyes1

we have been planning for about a year already!!!! I know crazy - I just want to book it!!! then I will feel like its really real!!!! :rotfl:

[libinatorsmom]

:confused3 Ok where do we stay.... that is the question:confused: :confused: :confused:

We are staying on site for sure... We have watched the planning video 100 times.... :sad2:

Hubby is stuck on Beach Club - looks fine to me - but I think we might enjoy the Poly or WL better???? closer to MK... I like the water/pool area at BC but really how much time will be spend there??? is it worth the extra expenses??? DD wants to stay in Cinderellas Bedroom... LOL so thats an negative on her request... :dance3:

:confused3 Anyone have suggestions :confused3 - we will probably end up at the BC... I really want to have a nice relaxing vacation with stuff to do at night... but a place to go relax in a quite atmosphere as well away from the hub-bub at the parks...

[libinatorsmom]

Here is what we have put together for our ADR - we our going to use the DDP on our trip - and will probably have to take a meal or two OOP - but we are looking forward to eating some good good food... :eek: We are hoping to have a nice relaxing trip.... :lmao: yeah right I know... lol...

:banana: ::::::::Our Ideas::::::::: :banana:

Friday
D: Yacht Club Galley (depending on flight time in)

Saturday Epcot Day
B: Akershus
L: Nine Dragons
D: Coral Reef

Sunday MGM Day
L: Quick Service
D: 1900 Park Fare

Monday Magic Kingdom Day
L: Quick Service
D: Ohana

Tuesday Blizzard Beach/DTD Day
B: Cape May Café
L: Quick Service
D: Cap'n Jack's

Wednesday Animal Kingdom Day
L: Tusker House
D: Les Chefs De France

Thusday Typhoon Lagoon/Epcot
L: Quick Service
D: Biergartan

Friday Magic Kingdom Day #2
Quick Service
Yachtsman Steakhouse

Saturday Open
Open (depending on flight time)

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated!!!!

[ILMICKEY]

I have 1 suggestion. If your daughter can't spend the night in the castle, she should at least eat there!!

On Wednesday you have AK. Tusker house for lunch and France for dinner.
That means you are planning to back to Epcot that night. If so, then you should stay at Beach Club. Only a hop skip and jump away.

That's why we are staying at the Boardwalk. We absolutely LOVE Epcot. I want to spend a lot of time there.

Everything sounds good!!

[libinatorsmom]

Thanks for the suggestions - we have been trying to figure out if we can but a meal at the castle in - i thought it was quite expensive... and with her eating at the Norway Princess breakfast I hoped that would safice for her... I would love to eat at CRT though... myself.. LOL

[libinatorsmom]

Working on park plans... granted they will be followed loosely!!!! Here are the ideas I have had o try and get in everything we all want to do... we will have some time I think to go back to a park and redo someting or catch something we missed...

Disney Plan.....

Walk down mainstreet to Castle - walk through castle
Cinderellas Carrousel
Dumbo
Areils Grotto
Minnies County house
Toontown Hall of Fame
Mickeys County house
Goofys Barnstomer
Donalds Boat
Many Advntures of Pooh
Story Time with Belle
Snow Whites Adventure ????
Mickeys Philharmagic 3-d show
Peter Pans Flight
It’s a small world
Haunted Mansion
Tom Sawyers Island
Big Thunder Railroad
Splash Mtn
Priates of the Carribean
Jungle Cruise
Enchanted tiki room
Magic Carpets of Addlin
Swiss Family Tree house
Monsters Inc Laugh floor
Buzz Lightyears Space Ranger
Carsol of Progress
Tommorw Land Speedway
SpectoMagic Parade/Fireworks


Be Honest... :) are open to a loose schudle i just wanted some kinda of a game plan so we are not totally lost... :scared1:

[Avivasmom]

WOW you have a lot planned already.

I guess deciding where to stay depends on how much you want to spend. We have stayed in moderates our fave is PFQ been there 3 times. We have done AKL going back for DD 7th bday in Jan. But our upcoming trips we rented DVC pointsin July will be at Boardwalk Villas and in Nov will be at Beach Club looking forward to the pool area there.

We have taken DD since she ws 2 and we never did the break in the middle of the day because she would nap in her stroller. But everyone is different. But we were not there at rope drop...I guess because we live close and go 3 to 4 times a year we now go to just what we want to ride! No more commando for us.

Looking forward to reading your plans.

[libinatorsmom]

Thanks for the advice.... :) We are so excited to go... I think we are going to try and add a meal at Cinderellas castle... is the expense justified???

[disneyaddicted]

Wow, you have lots planned. It's always good to have plans before you go, even if you don't stick to it 100% it's less overwhelming to have some kind of an idea.
I honestly think any place you choose to stay is going to be great, Disney is so magical you can't help but make the best of everything.
I don't know if I am more excited for your DD to be going to WDW or for you who gets to see the magic through her eyes.

[libinatorsmom]

Wow, you have lots planned. It's always good to have plans before you go, even if you don't stick to it 100% it's less overwhelming to have some kind of an idea.
I honestly think any place you choose to stay is going to be great, Disney is so magical you can't help but make the best of everything.
I don't know if I am more excited for your DD to be going to WDW or for you who gets to see the magic through her eyes.

I keep telling my husband that We could stay in a box at WDW and have a great time... so I think anything will just be awesome... and a magicall expereince...


I ALREADY tear up thinking about seeing my daughter outside of CInderellas Castle... and meeting the princesses for the 1st time... I AM DOING IT NOW WIRITNG ABOUT IT!!!! I cant wait to share this with her and my DH;) It will be something we will never forget!!!!!

[Database]

Just wanted to help you get to the next page. And add to your goal of 1000 pre-trippie posts! :goodvibes

We just booked Board Walk Villas for January and I was considering a pre-trippie. Since I see you're starting for May... it might not be too early for me.

Have you considered one of the WDW Passporters for your trip planning?
I was just looking one and trying to determine if I want to part with $22.

Good luck with your pre-trippie... I'll check in from time to time and see how it is going.

[libinatorsmom]

Funny you mention the passporter!!!! I just bought it on amazon - I think it was 15.00 on there... :) I have heard alot about it so I picked one up finally... I have the Unoffical Guide and have liked that but wanted another source of info... just waiting for it now!!!!

[Married_Him_@_Disney]

Helping you get to 1,000! Wow, you do have a lot of planning done! But, I think it's much needed since it's your DHs and DDs first trip!!! Keep the planning coming!!!!! :thumbsup2

[libinatorsmom]

Helping you get to 1,000! Wow, you do have a lot of planning done! But, I think it's much needed since it's your DHs and DDs first trip!!! Keep the planning coming!!!!! :thumbsup2

I dont want too much planned - if that makes sense... :) I just hope it all works out... I am sure we will have a magicall time no matter WHAT!!!!

[BubMunkeyBles]

I'm getting married May 10, 2008 at Shades of Green on property. Maybe we'll see you around. Will be at ASSports May 6-8, SOG May8-12 and Caribbean Beach May 12-27. :) You will have an awesome time... And I feel your pain on feeling like its gonna take forever to get here... My fave delux hotel is the Poly btw... It's super nice and more exotic... plus its on the monorail line. :)

[disneyaddicted]

one post closer to 1,000.

Have you ordered your free Disney planning DVD or your personal park maps? I watch the DVD once a week, it doesn't really help too much with the planning, it just gets me excited and I get to work on my itinerary. But your DD might really enjoy it. And you can order new maps every 6 months which is nice because they print 2 parks on each map (front and back) My DD Reese and I enjoyed customising ours to our favorite rides.

[disneyaddicted]

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/myVacation/index?id=MyVacationIndexPage&myDisneyVacation

Here is the link to the customized maps. I hope this works.

[libinatorsmom]

:sad2: one post closer to 1,000.

Have you ordered your free Disney planning DVD or your personal park maps? I watch the DVD once a week, it doesn't really help too much with the planning, it just gets me excited and I get to work on my itinerary. But your DD might really enjoy it. And you can order new maps every 6 months which is nice because they print 2 parks on each map (front and back) My DD Reese and I enjoyed customising ours to our favorite rides.

Yeppers I have... LOVE IT... I wonder when the 08 video will come out... :) I cry while watching it... YES I AM A BIG DORK!!!! :rotfl: :rolleyes1

We did get the maps too and they are pretty used by now... we will need to get new ones in a few months... before we go...

We just want to get it booked... AHHHHHH

[libinatorsmom]

Well we have all been pretty set on staying at Beach Club... But I have been thinking and reading!!!! (GOT MY PASSPORTER AND OFFICIAL GUIDE TO DISNEY FROM AMAZON YESTERDAY) and I am thinking about The Poly instead.. what are everyones thoughts??? the price is similar... closer to WDW??? any cons???

[acellison]

I think if you can afford it I would stay at the Poly. With a DD at 4 years of age, the convenience of the monorail would be valuable for trips to MK and EPCOT. You could easily take breaks during the day and go back to the room.

On the other hand, I just got back from MK with my DD3 and DD2 and they both slept together in a double stroller for an hour.

My DD3 is also all about the princessesprincess: . This was their first trip to WDW and we were selected to have private meeting with Cinderella by a CM when we walked throught the front gate of MK. Talk about magical:wizard:
I am so excited for you and I'm gald someone else feels like the time is going very slowly. But planning is half the fun, right?:hourglass

[libinatorsmom]

I think if you can afford it I would stay at the Poly. With a DD at 4 years of age, the convenience of the monorail would be valuable for trips to MK and EPCOT. You could easily take breaks during the day and go back to the room.

On the other hand, I just got back from MK with my DD3 and DD2 and they both slept together in a double stroller for an hour.

My DD3 is also all about the princessesprincess: . This was their first trip to WDW and we were selected to have private meeting with Cinderella by a CM when we walked throught the front gate of MK. Talk about magical:wizard:
I am so excited for you and I'm gald someone else feels like the time is going very slowly. But planning is half the fun, right?:hourglass

I am having a blast planning - I just wish we could book it... :) I am ready!!!!

I am going to see if I can convince hubby to do the Poly... I think it might be better for us... though hes set on the BC!!!! :love:

[acellison]

I am just trying out my signature:)

[libinatorsmom]

I am just trying out my signature:)

Looks GREAT!!!! :cool1:

[libinatorsmom]

Just wanted to post quick before I went to work... Just got done checking the website... no 08 rates yet... boo boo boo... it sucks... I hope they get it up soon before I go nuts... :rotfl:

HOTEL UPDATE:
Hubby and I discussed it last night... and I lost.... Hes stuck on BC - which I guess - hey I will be in Disney who cares where I stay!!!! :)

[acellison]

You're right. As long as you're on Disney property who cares where you stay.:thumbsup2 The BC looks wonderful. I have never actually stayed there but I have walked around the resort.

[libinatorsmom]

You're right. As long as you're on Disney property who cares where you stay.:thumbsup2 The BC looks wonderful. I have never actually stayed there but I have walked around the resort.

I told my hubby just that just last night.... who cares which disney resort we stay at!!!!!!!!!!:thumbsup2

[libinatorsmom]

I WANNA BOOK MY TRIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Come on Disney let me book my trip... PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :rotfl2: :surfweb: :scared1:

[libinatorsmom]

how do you post pictures....

[libinatorsmom]

I was reading about this in one of my trip planning books... any one have any insight on them... can you only buy them at DISNEY??? I think I want to get one from my daughter

[libinatorsmom]

WE ARE BOOKED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM SOOOOO EXCITED..... My hubby just called me with our confirmation number!!!!! I just cant tell you how excited I am... May 9 - 17 Beach Club - with Dulx Dinning Plan.... We are expecting the trip of a lifetime... I am so excited!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is just amazing... I am sitting here at work crying...

[ILMICKEY]

I am so happy for you!! But you probably shouldn't be crying at work!

Let the planning really begin now! :dance3:

[libinatorsmom]

I am so happy for you!! But you probably shouldn't be crying at work!

Let the planning really begin now! :dance3:

LOL its a good think no body saw me.... he he he... :thumbsup2

[mousescrapper]

I ditto you on it's never early enough to start planning....

I'm right behind you going 1 month later in early June of 08 and I've been planning for over a year too, first with the time period and now non-stop since we got back from this year's beach vacation. I'm excited too now that the 08 rates are out and we can book our vacation.

I think you'll love going in May, that's when we went in 05, and had really great weather and not huge-huge crowds, especially on eve EMH.

We are staying at the Poly this time and can't wait. I ditto the excitement as I read through your posts.

I'm all about pre-planning out each day too, and deciding the order of how to go through the parks, that way you're not standing there for 20 minutes deciding which way to go. I recommend pacing yourself though since this is your DH and DD first time, take the time to take it all in and feel the magic. Always take the time for characters and lots of pictures.

Just to warn you, (though it may not be this way anymore), but because of the mid day show at MK you cannot walk through the castle anymore, the stage blocks it, at least that is how it was with Cinderbration, but I believe they are changing the show to some new MM one. I know I was so disappointed with that back in 05.

As far as your ADR, I recommend going to Chef Mickey's at the CR, it is such a blast! Also our new favorite find at MK is Columbia Harbor House a CS place. It has alot of seafood choices, but we sat upstairs and it was practically empty up there, it was such a nice peaceful break.

Another highlight, very unexpected suprise was doing the Family Tour at MK it lasted about 2 hours and was just so awesome. I don't want to give away the ending (don't want to spoil the magic) but I HIGHLY recommend it!

Our DD #2 was 2 1/2 when were there in 05 and she napped pretty good in her stroller except the last 3 days of our trip I think she just had enough, our other diz kids then 6 (twins) did really well, we planned on taking breaks each day, but it just didn't work out that well or seem too practical with the bus travel, but use them if you need them, it's no fun anymore when you have a cranky child...:headache:

This time because we'll be at the Poly we are planning on breaks and pacing ourselves better because our youngest #4 will be 18 mo and just recently our DS was diagonised with ADHD and Aspergers disorder and we just don't know how his days will go.

I'll keep checking your planning and I'd love to hear about the BC, we ate at the Character bfast at Cape May back in '94 and just loved looking around that resort.

Happy planning and check out my PTR too.:dance3:

Here's the link if I did it right, otherwise it's called 08 will be great at the poly...

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1540090

[mousescrapper]

:rolleyes1

[libinatorsmom]

Too cool - ok fill me in on the "family tour" what is that... we are changing our meal plan slightly because of the Dulx DInning Plan that we have know booked.. WOO HOO I am so excited about the Dulx Dinning... we have a few breakfasts planned but we arent big breakfast eaters and having enough credits to do the 2ts meals now... :)

We are super excited... I am sure it will be here before we know it... and we just cant wait... we got our confirmation email from Disney - It feels so real now... - just have to finish paying for it... EEEK....

[libinatorsmom]

:eek: With the new Dulx Dinning Plan that we decided to book we have done some tweaking to our Dinning plan... here is the lastest...

Friday
Dinner Flying Fish Café

Saturday
Breakfast Akershus
Lunch Nine Dragons
Dinner Coral Reef

Sunday
Breakfast Cape May Café
Lunch
Dinner Spoodles

Monday
Breakfast Crystal Palace
Lunch
Dinner Cinderellas Royal Table

Tuesday
Breakfast Cape May Café
Lunch Quick Service
Dinner Capn' Jacks

Wednesday
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner Les Chefs De France

Thursday
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner Biergartan

Friday
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner Yachtsman Steakhouse

Satruday
Breakfast
Lunch

Would love suggestions opinions etc... :eek: :dance3:

[mousescrapper]

Hi sorry I haven't stopped by lately....you still planning the trip of a lifetime? :confused3

Anyhow, realized you had asked me about the Family Tour, w/out giving to much away, becuse thats really what made it so special for us all. :ssst: It's about a 2 hour excursion throughout the WHOLE MK with a terrific ending! You're on a mission or a quest from the Big Cheese himself with a very nice tour guide and some other Disney families. Be prepared to get invloved and have a TON of FUN! Check it out, it's really one of the only true family tours there that includes the under 15 crowd, really any age, even our then 2 1/2 yr old loved it. And it really is reasonably priced too.:thumbsup2

Well hope to see some more of your fun planning and we can piggy-back ideas togehter as we're only 1 month apart.party:

[twinmom319]

Really enjoying reading your pre-trip report! I just talked DH into going again in early may, probably around the same time as you!! We were there last may, and even with the show there were times of day you could walk through the castle, just depended on where you were. In fact my girls liked staring at the mosaics in the castle - we spent a lot of time just standing there!

I love it that I am not the only crazy person planning so far in advance! :banana:

[myAAbatteries&aTD]

I'd been reading your pre-trippie, but hadn't posted yet..... we LOVE the Pal Mickey! My girls each have one and he gets played w/ at home ALL the time! I like to listen to what he says in the park, too - just as much fun for me as it is them!

Can't wait to hear more!!!

[libinatorsmom]

I'd been reading your pre-trippie, but hadn't posted yet..... we LOVE the Pal Mickey! My girls each have one and he gets played w/ at home ALL the time! I like to listen to what he says in the park, too - just as much fun for me as it is them!

Can't wait to hear more!!!

I think I am going to get her one for christmas... or her birthday.. they sound super cute.... :)

[Phedre]

Hiya,

I like your trip report so far.. You've got some great food schedualed! You are going to love Beach Club so don't worry about that at all.. I think its one of my top 3 resorts at WDW :D And since you didn't get to Poly this time, you can always schedule a trip later so you can experience for yourself and decide which you like better :D

Oh, I love my Pal Mickey... the only problem is he gets kinda heavy to haul around the parks so I've been leaving him at home a little more often. I'm getting into the mode of bringing as little stuff as possible in with me. I used to be a packrat and haul ALL sorts of stuff in so I've been trimming down in the last few trips :D He is a good time and I think he'd make the first trip really fun for your family :)

[DreaminDisney]

I enjoyed your pre-trip report. May will be here before you know it. It's a great month to go too.

If I can make a suggestion...... Make a breakfast ADR for CRT!! If your daughter is into the princesses she'll love it. My DD was 2 the first time going there and LOVED it and now she's 7. She isn't into the whole princess thing like she once was but still wants to go back to CRT for breakfast again. Fortunately I was lucky enough to get an ADR for CRT breakfast on Christmas morning. Even DS (10) is fine with it.

I'm looking forward to more of your trip planning!!!

[libinatorsmom]

I enjoyed your pre-trip report. May will be here before you know it. It's a great month to go too.

If I can make a suggestion...... Make a breakfast ADR for CRT!! If your daughter is into the princesses she'll love it. My DD was 2 the first time going there and LOVED it and now she's 7. She isn't into the whole princess thing like she once was but still wants to go back to CRT for breakfast again. Fortunately I was lucky enough to get an ADR for CRT breakfast on Christmas morning. Even DS (10) is fine with it.

I'm looking forward to more of your trip planning!!!

Is the breakfast better then the dinner????

[DreaminDisney]

Is the breakfast better then the dinner????

Our family likes the breakfast better then the dinner there and I don't think you get all the Princesses at dinner either.

[libinatorsmom]

I think I may change to the breakfast... :) thanks for the tip

[libinatorsmom]

well with the addition of the Dulx Dining Plan that we have selected to do... and some other informtion and suggestions we have made some Revisions to our Dining Plan.... Any suggesitions?????

Friday - Arriveal Day
Dinner - Flying Fish Café

Saturday - Epcot
Breakfast - Akershus
Lunch - Nine Dragons
Dinner - Coral Reef

Sunday - Waterpark
Breakfast - Cape May Café
Lunch - Quick Service
Dinner - Spoodles

Monday - Magic Kingdom
Breakfast - Crystal Palace
Lunch -
Dinner - Cirtrocos or Narcoocess (2)

Tuesday - Animal Kingdom/DTD
Breakfast
Lunch - Quick Service
Dinner - Capn' Jacks

Wednesday - Waterpark
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner - Les Chefs De France

Thursday - MGM Studios
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner - Biergartan

Friday - Magic Kingdom
Breakfast -
Lunch - Cinderella Royal Table (2)
Dinner - Yachtsman Steakhouse

Satruday - Depature Day
Breakfast
Lunch

[libinatorsmom]

We got our plane tickets today.... :) woo hoo... Hubby went to the travel agent today at lunch and brought the tickets home... I am sooo excited... one more thing off this list.. and they were about 60 under budget... woo hoo to that too... :)

We are Flying Delta - will arrive in Orlando about 515pm Friday evening... return home flight leaves at 130pm.... Saturday

[ILMICKEY]

Woohoo for you!! Doesn't seem like things are happening now?? It will be here before you know it. Today is 1 month, 1 week for me. Some days it seems like it's taking forever, others it seems like it's flying!! The tickets are what made it seem like we were really going!!

[eyenjeff]

Great report!! It is fun hearing about others plans too! We are leaving in 21 days for my 6th trip, my husbands 3rd trip, our son's 3rd trip, and our daughter's 1st trip! We are meeting up with relatives who are visiting from England and they can't wait either.

I am glad that I am not the only one who "overplans" Disney. I think the planning is almost as fun as the trip itself!! Today I am getting down the luggage to start putting all the little things aside. I also have to write out my "LIST" of things to bring and do before we leave.

We recieved our final paperwork yesterday in the mail and NOW it seems like it is REAL.

I also purchased the passporter and have it all filled out so I can write notes while we are gone so I can write a trip report when we get back.

We also have a My Pal Mickey. We have the original one and I just bought the Sorceror Mickey on ebay( along with some additional clothes to change him into to! LOL). It is an updated version. My son and husband both love him. My husband loves to play the games...even at home...LOL!:rotfl2: We like that he tells us what itsnt crowded at this time, and then we can go to that attraction. My daughter who is 13 months picks him up and hugs him and then he turns on and she loves that! I think it is a fun thing to have, and if you rent a stroller, you can always store him in there if he gets to heavy.

There is no place like DISNEY for vacation! It really is the most magical place on earth and all who enter can become a child again in a second! LOVE that! You will love it and make sure to have that camera waiting for your daughter's face when she sees the castle for the first time.

Also, I didn't notice if you had any ADR's for MK early in the am. If you can make one for before the MK opens then you get in when no one is there and main street and the castle foreground is totally empty for some great photo ops!! We are doing this for the first time with an ADR at the crystal palace at 8:20am and the MK doesnt officially open til 9am. We can't wait to see it all empty and clean and no one in our view!! It might be an idea for you if you can swing it. Makes for great pics!!

Have lots more fun planning and a great trip!

[libinatorsmom]

Thanks for the ideas... we have a Crystal Palace Breakfast planned... I will have to make it as early as possible... hope I can get them all up...

Can you get the My Pal Mickey on Ebay - I might have to do that... :)

[eyenjeff]

Thanks for the ideas... we have a Crystal Palace Breakfast planned... I will have to make it as early as possible... hope I can get them all up...

Can you get the My Pal Mickey on Ebay - I might have to do that... :)

I got the sorcerer Mickey on ebay by searching my pal mickey. I think I paid around $25 for him and I think he is over $60 at the park. Try it ! You may get lucky!

[libinatorsmom]

My husband just got off the phone and we have our ADRs for our trip in May we are soooo excited it makes it feel so much closer... we are under 6mos to go... woo hooo.... We are on the Dulx Dinning Plan and we are sooo excited... :cool1: :banana: :yay:

THis is what we ended up with

Saturday
Open
Akershus 8:30pm
Coral Reef 6:00pm

Sunday
Cape May Café 8:00am
Quick Service
Yachtsman Steakhouse 6:30pm

Monday
Crystal Palace 8:05am
Quick Service
Narcoocees 6:30pm

Tuesday
Open
Quick Service
Flying Fish Café 5:45pm

Wednesday
Open
Quick Service
Biergartan 6:30pm

Thursday
Spoodles 9:00am
Quick Service
Artist Point 5:30pm

Friday
Mainstreet Bakery
8:00 Bippity Boppity Boutique - Magic Kingdom
Cinderellas Royal Table 12:05pm
Le Cellier 6:30pm

Saturday
Cape May Buffet 8:55am

[libinatorsmom]

A friend of mine is going to Disney in January and she is going to get me our pal mickey.... :) I will give it to my daughter for her birthday on 1-31

[libinatorsmom]

I just have to get her one of these.... my daughter will freek... when and where... HELP... AHHH

How do I get her one... I just can imigine her reaction -- hubby and I have already decided her head will probably explode when she sees cinderellas castle and man when she meets cinderella - I know I will be crying...

[winkers]

enjoying your report!

[libinatorsmom]

Well got Libby (DD) her princess suitcase as a gift from her aunt and uncle (My brother) and we bought two outfits for her for our trip... TWO ADORABLE PRINCESS THEMED OUTFITS!!!!

We still need to get all our our goodies for the trip too!!! This is going to be sooo much fun...

PLUS NOW I AM DIETING!!!!!!! my goal is 20 pounds by the 9th of may - WISH ME LUCK

[mousescrapper]

Hi,

trying to get caught up on some of PTR's and was glad to get re-aquainted with yours. We just made all our ADRs too a month ago. It sure does make it feel like it's getting closer not to mention now it's 2008. The year of our trips.

Your "Cinderella" Day sounds just wonderful with a visit to the Boutique for a makeover and then lunch with Cindy herself. Your DD will just be thrilled to end her trip with that!

Happy Planning and I look forward to reading more.

[i_heart_disney85]

We just returned from a 5 day 4 night wonderful Disney vacation. We stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and it was AMAZING!!! I highly recommend it to your family and anyone! For being the cheapest of the Deluxe resorts, it doesn't miss a thing! Everything is themed to a tee, the restaurants are phenominal, and the animals are everywhere, what more could you ask for?!?! I want to try other resorts, (especially the Polynesian & the Grand Floridian) but I don't know how they could top the AKL! We will definatly stay there again.

I also HIGHLY recommend the deluxe DDP, especially since your hubby is excited for the food. It saved us about $250 in 5 days! Great value!!!

My Disney companion is fine dining chef himself, so its hard for him to be impressed by food. The places that WOW!ed him were California Grill and Jiko. Best meals of the trip. 50s Prime Time Cafe was also a very good & fun meal. Based on the atmosphere alone, Coral Reef (the food was not very good, disappointing but the restaurant was beautiful) and Sci-Fi Dine-In (just an overall awesome theme) were also stand-out spots for us.

Hope this helps! Have a blast on your Disney Vacation, we sure did!!!

[Jacklynn]

Hey! I just wanted to stop by and say that my husband and I are also planning a May 2008 trip, ours is an anniversary/make up honeymoon trip. We are currently child-free... but hoping to possibly change that on our trip :)

We are going May 7th-14th. We aren't really sure where we are staying yet, we haven't booked yet. Either WL or POFQ depends on when DH makes up his mind.

[libinatorsmom]

Ok all you WDW goers... we want to make sure we have everything planned we need to - we are 102 days out from our 1st WDW vacation and cant be more excited.... and I am just double checking to make sure we have all planned that we need.... just looking for expirenced HELP...

We have all our ADR's planned
Booked Magic Your Way Tickets with Dulx Dining + Park Hopper + Waterparks
Bippity Boppity Boo-tique for DD4

Still have to:
Get Cinderella Slipper Des ordered for DD for Narcoosies dinner (when should we do this)


ANYTHING ELSE?????

[libinatorsmom]

Hey! I just wanted to stop by and say that my husband and I are also planning a May 2008 trip, ours is an anniversary/make up honeymoon trip. We are currently child-free... but hoping to possibly change that on our trip :)

We are going May 7th-14th. We aren't really sure where we are staying yet, we haven't booked yet. Either WL or POFQ depends on when DH makes up his mind.

SOO COOL - I hope your "plan" works out... HE HE HE -- GOOD LUCK and have fun... :cutie: ;) :hug:

I have heard Wilderness Lodge is VERY NICE and we have thought about switching there.... but are thinking BC is a better fit for us...

[mousescrapper]

Ok all you WDW goers... we want to make sure we have everything planned we need to - we are 102 days out from our 1st WDW vacation and cant be more excited.... and I am just double checking to make sure we have all planned that we need.... just looking for expirenced HELP...

We have all our ADR's planned
Booked Magic Your Way Tickets with Dulx Dining + Park Hopper + Waterparks
Bippity Boppity Boo-tique for DD4

Still have to:
Get Cinderella Slipper Des ordered for DD for Narcoosies dinner (when should we do this)


ANYTHING ELSE?????

How's your Park Tour Plan look? are you doing EMH's or trying to avoid....feel free to indulge us on your park plans it's always fun to see what others do....

Start your packing lists.... it's never to early in my opinion. Going to plan to wear any matching shirts or colors or even make your own shirt designs??? Have fun with that.

[Marshay]

I just joined your PTR and enjoying the planning.

We are going May 3-12 at Beach Club Villas, so maybe we'll see you there. Your daughter will go wild over the SAB pool -- my 2 yr old loved it! That is the #1 reason to choose BC.

We stayed there in Sept and plan to go back again in May since we liked it so much. My favorite used to be Poly but now that we are DVC members :cool1: BCV is #1 for us.

Our strategy is generally to avoid EMH since we are not early risers but we are going to try the AK EMH at night since I've never been in AK past 5pm.

[libinatorsmom]

How's your Park Tour Plan look? are you doing EMH's or trying to avoid....feel free to indulge us on your park plans it's always fun to see what others do....

Start your packing lists.... it's never to early in my opinion. Going to plan to wear any matching shirts or colors or even make your own shirt designs??? Have fun with that.

Its so funny you mention the park plans... I keep telling hubby we need some kind of a park plan (just general plan) and he thinks I am crazy... errrr... wonder how I can talk him into this one... :)

My daughters suitcase is already started to be packed... LOL... I bought her a couple outfits SPECAIL for the trip (so I hope they still fit...) and they are in there... plus we made mousekeeping envelopes (she decorated them) and they are in there as well.... she also got some b-day money I told her to put in there so she can use it at disney... :) I STILL NEED TO BUY A SUITCASE... I was trying to loose some wait before the tirp... NOT HAPPENIND SO FAR... EEEK

[libinatorsmom]

I just joined your PTR and enjoying the planning.

We are going May 3-12 at Beach Club Villas, so maybe we'll see you there. Your daughter will go wild over the SAB pool -- my 2 yr old loved it! That is the #1 reason to choose BC.

We stayed there in Sept and plan to go back again in May since we liked it so much. My favorite used to be Poly but now that we are DVC members :cool1: BCV is #1 for us.

Our strategy is generally to avoid EMH since we are not early risers but we are going to try the AK EMH at night since I've never been in AK past 5pm.

We are avoiding the EMH as we are sitting right now... I think one day our sch matching an EMH.... I am guessing we wont take advantage... BUT MAY... depending on how we are feeling... :) we are hoping to relax a little bit...

Two days we have Waterpark trips planned and that may change a bit... with SAB I dont know if we would just rather hang out there then go to the water parks but I am sure we will check them out at least... and I dont think we would be there all day... so might hit a evening in another park if it works out... :)

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Great PTR !! :goodvibes

MAY is awesome!! We went last May and are going again this May to celebrate our 10th anniversary!!

I've been booked since last summer too. Got our airfare last month. Not long now. . . 92 days for me! :wizard:

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Yes, I say avoid EMH's at all costs!! We did this last May and never waited more than 15-20 minutes for anything (except Dumbo!) !

[libinatorsmom]

We just changed to POFQ Resort for our May Trip and I am trying to find info on it... :) Would love some reviews from you all.... its our 1st WDW Trip... We were staying at BC but we changed our mind... and changed it this morning.... from what I have read it will fit with our family better... :) I may have to change a few ADR's better get on that huh... lol since we have a couple resturants 2x and a spoodles breakfast I can live without...

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Stayed at POFQ last May. You can look through my TR for info and lots of pictures! :goodvibes

[figment fan21]

We just changed to POFQ Resort for our May Trip and I am trying to find info on it... :) Would love some reviews from you all.... its our 1st WDW Trip... We were staying at BC but we changed our mind... and changed it this morning.... from what I have read it will fit with our family better... :) I may have to change a few ADR's better get on that huh... lol since we have a couple resturants 2x and a spoodles breakfast I can live without...

I haven't been there for a while... last time we stayed there it was still dixie landings lol.... but for what its worth the grounds are very beautiful

[Marshay]

POFQ is a nice place. They have a good food court and nice swimming pool area (you can also use the Riverside pool too), the boat ride to DTD is nice and relaxing. We stayed there in 2004 with a Grand Gathering and everyone in our group had a good time. However, our room was next to the Food Court area so it was very easy to get to lobby, pool, food, laundry, etc. If we had a room further out, we may not have had the same experience. Room size is 314 sq ft.

Last year we stayed at BC and let me say POFQ doesn't come anywhere close to the luxury, fun and convenience of BC -- however, you also don't have the large price tag$$$$. BC gives you the extras -- larger room, rooms are not as spread out over the resort, STORMALONG BAY is a must-do! and the ability to walk into Epcot and not have to worry about parking or busses is HUGE in my book if you are spending anytime at Epcot, which I assume you will be doing for the Flower Show. A big downside is that BC does not have a food court (they have a marketplace for soup/sandwiches). Room size is 380 sq ft.

Also, BC has lots of entertainment along the Boardwalk (a short walk) and you can watch some of Illuminations w/o going into Epcot. They have movies on the beach or you can take a stroll around the lake. You can also walk or boat to DHS.

If money is not a factor, then it's BC all the way -- wouldn't even consider POFQ twice. However, if I could only afford a moderate and don't plan to go to Epcot or use SAB, then POFQ is my #1 choice.

You'll have a good time at either!

Anyway, there's my 2 cents.

[libinatorsmom]

Stayed at POFQ last May. You can look through my TR for info and lots of pictures! :goodvibes

Oh cool - on my way to look... :) I really think we made the right decsion to change...Hubbys not to sure though...I hope hes not unhappy with it

[libinatorsmom]

Stayed at POFQ last May. You can look through my TR for info and lots of pictures! :goodvibes

Oh cool - on my way to look... :) I really think we made the right decsion to change...Hubbys not to sure though...I hope hes not unhappy with it

[libinatorsmom]

Well with the change of our Resort to POFQ :goodvibes I decided to change two of our breakfasts... the spoodles breakfast an the 2nd Cape May Breakfast... so I called this afternoon (honestly I just hung up the phone with a very nice CM)

Got a 10:30am Breakfast at Chef Mickeys (hope we know what we are in for)

And a 9:20am Breakfast at 1900 Park Fair the last day of our trip

I think these are good changes.... :)

[lakelandcallsme]

hi.. love your trip report. port orleans FQ has the best food court hands down and the grounds are beautiful. they do a really cool river boat cruise for the kids 4 and up no mommies or dads allowed the kids sail down the river and learn to be a court jester they get a lunch and lots of treasure and treats my dd4 loved it. i loved it for the 1 and 1/2 hours child free to eat breakfast in peace:rolleyes1 . also you should look into the My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea at the GF wow wow wow every little princesses dream very expensive but well worth it for all the stuff they get the doll is great and you can buy extra clothes for her... have fun:cheer2: :cheer2:

[libinatorsmom]

As some of you know I am all for the Dining Plan and the Dulx plan... well dut to the boss being gone today :rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 I finally had the chance to sit down and figure out what we are saving... so hear you are....

9 Day 8 Night Stay: (3 X 8 = 24credits) 2 Adults: $69.99(2) X 8 = $1119.84 1 Child(4): $19.99 X 8 = $159.92 = $1279.76 (TOTAL)

We have 14 ADRS: totally 19 Credits (leaves us with 5 credits each for other meals (ie counter service etc)

We have 5 Signature Meals: Yahtsman Steakhouse, Narcoosees, Flying Fish Cafe, Artist Point, & Cinderellas Royal Table (Totally 10 credits)

We have 9 Other ADRS: Cape May Buffet (Dinner), Askerhaus, Coral Reef, Cape May Buffet (Breakfast), Crystal Palace, Biergratan, Chef Mickeys, LeCellier, 1900 Park Fair (Totally 9 Credits)

Doing the WHAT WE THINK WE WOULD EAT senerios using online menus and prices: DH: $549.39 (plus 5 additional credits) ME DW: $513.87 (Plus 5 additional credits DD(4): $195.14 (Plus 5 additional Credits) = $1258.40 (PLUS 5 Additional MEAL CREDITS)

PLUS we get the 2 snacks (2 X 8 = 16 so 16 X 3(estimate) = $48 so $48 X 3= $144) & the Refillable Mug (3 X 12.99 = $38.97) = $182.97 (Snacks and Mug)

SO we have "spendt" $1258.40 + $182.97 = $1441.37

Taking the Price of the Plan $1279.76 and figuring our "spent" $1441.37 - We have already SAVED: $161.61 BUT WE STILL HAVE THE 5 remaing Credits EACH!!!! To be used to fill in meals throughout the stay Breakfast's and Lunches (all dinners are ADRs) = so figure we get appox $10 out of each credit remaining $10 X 15 credits = $150 (this is an estimate) we are saving $311.61 for our meals: plus have tax included (yes we have to pay tips --- but I prefer this as I tip on service - give me good service i will give you a GREAT tip) PLUS we have the ease of all meals being PAID up front and we ARE saving in my eyes a great deal... Our daughters meal plan is essentionally FREE + additional savings for us!!!!!!!!! WOO HOO :banana: :yay: :woohoo:

OK THATS MY STORY AND I AM STICKING TO IT!!!!!!!!

[libinatorsmom]

I so wanted to do the Tea Party for my daughter but I just cant see spending the $$$$ for it... EEEK... so I scratched it off the things to do... SIGH... maybe next time we head to disney we can sneak it in there... as I am hoping i can convince my family to do a GRAND GATHERING in a few years!!!

[mousescrapper]

libinatorsmom,

Things are looking good for your trip!

I think you'll really enjoy your latest changes for those 2 brfasts. We really love CM's. It 's so fun and lively! Were doing dinner at 1900 PF for our trip and our looking forward to that too.

I don't have much to say in regards to the resort change BC vs POFQ, as I haven't stayed in either. But in 05 we stayed in POR and we really enjoyed it. We didn't get a chance to take advantge of the resort ammenties, but really enjoyed taking the boat to DTD a couple times. It was a nice and relaxing trip.

Speaking of the tea party. There is also one w/out the doll. Just for girls (not sure of min age) but it is at GF w/ Alice and the Mad Hatter. My DD then 6 did it on her first trip (it was a suprise) and really enjoyed it. It's under $30 w/ tax and includes a photo, and lunch. Just so you know.

I liked your DH's comment about having a tour plan. I just said to my DH this morning we need to sit down agian and go over some more Disney stuff....DH :confused: "thought we figured everything out already"....:headache: they just don't get it huh?

Keep it coming!

[libinatorsmom]

libinatorsmom,

Things are looking good for your trip!

I think you'll really enjoy your latest changes for those 2 brfasts. We really love CM's. It 's so fun and lively! Were doing dinner at 1900 PF for our trip and our looking forward to that too.

I don't have much to say in regards to the resort change BC vs POFQ, as I haven't stayed in either. But in 05 we stayed in POR and we really enjoyed it. We didn't get a chance to take advantge of the resort ammenties, but really enjoyed taking the boat to DTD a couple times. It was a nice and relaxing trip.

Speaking of the tea party. There is also one w/out the doll. Just for girls (not sure of min age) but it is at GF w/ Alice and the Mad Hatter. My DD then 6 did it on her first trip (it was a suprise) and really enjoyed it. It's under $30 w/ tax and includes a photo, and lunch. Just so you know.

I liked your DH's comment about having a tour plan. I just said to my DH this morning we need to sit down agian and go over some more Disney stuff....DH :confused: "thought we figured everything out already"....:headache: they just don't get it huh?

Keep it coming!


I will look into the other tea party... :) thanks...

Oh hubby is soo funny hes like why dont we just go... lol... :) maybe I am obsessing to much but I want it to be fun... I just want some kind of a plan... :)

CM looks really fun and I totally think its the right decsion.. we got the water park and more optition on our ticket but dont know how much of that we will use... might just relax those days and maybe hit a major park for a few hours instead... :)

We are also debating about the Priates and Princess Party.... Just not sure... :confused3

[mousescrapper]

I will look into the other tea party... :) thanks...

Oh hubby is soo funny hes like why dont we just go... lol... :) maybe I am obsessing to much but I want it to be fun... I just want some kind of a plan... :)

CM looks really fun and I totally think its the right decsion.. we got the water park and more optition on our ticket but dont know how much of that we will use... might just relax those days and maybe hit a major park for a few hours instead... :)

We are also debating about the Priates and Princess Party.... Just not sure... :confused3

I got DH to go through our oop food expenses while were there last night (were just on the basic DDp w/ 1 child under 3 not on the plan) this I'm afraid was mostly a one-sided conversation....;) I figure if I get at least 2 good Disney conversations a month w/ him were doing good.

WE ARE SO MAJOR BUMMED WE MISS the P&PP by just 1 day. It's only offered one day in June and of course it'd have to be the day before we arrive. (Flying so can't really change those flight out) It'd be better if we missed it by weeks....KWIM??

Glad to see both our tickers winding down....:goodvibes

MouseScrapper

[libinatorsmom]

I got DH to go through our oop food expenses while were there last night (were just on the basic DDp w/ 1 child under 3 not on the plan) this I'm afraid was mostly a one-sided conversation....;) I figure if I get at least 2 good Disney conversations a month w/ him were doing good.

WE ARE SO MAJOR BUMMED WE MISS the P&PP by just 1 day. It's only offered one day in June and of course it'd have to be the day before we arrive. (Flying so can't really change those flight out) It'd be better if we missed it by weeks....KWIM??

Glad to see both our tickers winding down....:goodvibes

MouseScrapper


I really would love to do the P&PP but hubby has vetod it... I was thinking about talking to my parents ands ee if they would slurge on it for us... :) as a gift --- so then we could not have an excuse not to go... my mom said she ws going to send us some $$$$ before we leave for "spending money" but I am thinking about asking her if she would mind just doing that... i dont know.... :confused3

[libinatorsmom]

well I am working on the PLAN... man this is tough... i bet it keeps me busy for a while... how to get from here to there and there to here... without causing major stress on family.... AHHHHHH this will be a feet in itself... I am just gald I thought about it now... I really dont want to be standing somewhere and thinking... ok we have 30 mins to get to our dinner ressie how do we get there... bus, cab, boat, walk, etc.... and wasting valuable time...

anyone want to help me.... :surfweb:

[eyenjeff]

well I am working on the PLAN... man this is tough... i bet it keeps me busy for a while... how to get from here to there and there to here... without causing major stress on family.... AHHHHHH this will be a feet in itself... I am just gald I thought about it now... I really dont want to be standing somewhere and thinking... ok we have 30 mins to get to our dinner ressie how do we get there... bus, cab, boat, walk, etc.... and wasting valuable time...

anyone want to help me.... :surfweb:

Sure, let us know your schedules and what days you are doing what etc.. and I am sure we can all help you figure it out. Especially those of us who have been there many times!

Also, on the P&PP, I haven't been to that particular party, but I have attended MNSSHP and MVMCP and both have been sooooo worth it. Even if for just the rides alone. We are going to MVMCP again this yr in Dec. The park is far less crowded and we walked on almost every ride, and some you can ride over and over again without getting off. The themes for the MNSSHP and MVMCP are really cool and they have parades and fireworks and special shows just for the parties. It is so worth the money. Maybe you can convince your husband instead of buying extra souveniers you guys can enjoy a great night at MK with so much to offer! I think for the price, there is so much that they offer and just the availability of the rides that during reg hours you wait an hour or more for, and to walk on or wait minutes for, and be able to see parades and fireworks with less people in park is also a great deal.

Let us know what your schedule is and we can see if we all can help you with your transportation dilemas.

Good luck and have a great trip!!!!

[libinatorsmom]

thanks...

[mousescrapper]

be happy to help. Just let us know which particular transpo issues are freaking you the most...

It's a great idea to plan those things especially when your resort hopping or don't have a direct route.

I'll never forget getting "lost" trying to get to the Boardwalk once....it was a long night.:faint:

[libinatorsmom]

be happy to help. Just let us know which particular transpo issues are freaking you the most...

It's a great idea to plan those things especially when your resort hopping or don't have a direct route.

I'll never forget getting "lost" trying to get to the Boardwalk once....it was a long night.:faint:

HA HA HA I am sure we will get "lost" several times... lol and not just in the physical sense :rotfl: :lovestruc princess:

[AnnieDan_Artlover]

Hi!

Just catching up!
I noticed you'll be in the World at the same time we'll be, and not only that, but we'll be at the same resort! :eek:

Me and Mama will be at POFQ from april 29th to May 16th!:goodvibes

I'll be sporting a lime green croc (Faolan)... oh, and sitting in a tartan blue wheelchair... :headache:
Say hi if you see us! :wave:

It's coming soon!
Hope you have a wonderful trip!