A Disney fanatic is back for Free Dining**Lots of Pics!! Updated 9/13!

[PISCESANGEL]

I’m baaack! And if you read along with my first trip report you already know that I am a Disney-loving mom, but now I’m planning a fantastic 6 night trip with FREE DINING, and I’m ready to take all of you along for another trippie!…


First, let me start by telling you how I became the Disney-fanatic that I am…

It began with me living in Orlando when I was only six, and my mom worked at the Hotel Royal Plaza. At the time, there was a Michael Jackson suite and a Bob Hope suite.

The important part, for my story, was the Michael Jackson suite. This was during MJ’s Thriller days, and I was the girl with his poster on my wall, an MJ pin on my jean jacket, and absolutely every album to date, so I was super-pumped every time we went to the hotel. :yay: I always loved the stories my mom would tell about him calling down to order his own room-service. :drinking1

… So one night, we got the brilliant idea to go down and walk the halls of his floor, to see if we could catch a glimpse of him. :idea: Imagine my surprise – we did see him, and his whole entourage! It was a very cool moment. ::yes::

Well, the next day, or somewhere thereabouts (I was six, my memory may be a little fuzzy) my mom actually spoke to him, and he invited me and my whole family to go out to dinner with him! :woohoo: Oh, we went all out and got new clothes and really got excited! But alas, before we go any further I will say, it was not to be. :sad2:

My mom’s boss told her that she was not allowed to mingle with the guests off-property or she would lose her job. :mad: Looking back, I wish my mom would’ve told her where she could stick her rules, but my mom backed down. So, what does this have to do with Disney World you ask?


My parents thought of a very effective way of cheering us up. They took us to the MK for the very first time! In this case, it was certainly love at first sight and at the time I felt luckier than I have ever felt. :lovestruc You see, we moved there from Ohio and it took a long time for my parents to recover from the costs and the loss of income when we were first there. They were both working two jobs and still didn’t have a lot of money. My parents, two older brothers and myself lived in a 2-bedroom apartment. We literally lived on beans (and vegetables when we could afford them), and my brothers and I would wear hand-me-down jeans with holes in the knees. It was bad. But, this was the best day of my life! :banana:

We never did get to go back again, and we eventually moved back to Ohio when my grandfather became very ill. It would be several years, until the love I felt for all things Disney would be awakened, but it was, and in a very big way!

Fast forward several years, I graduated High School, got married, my daughter is now 5 years-old. It is time to take her to Disney World. We only visit the MK as a side trip on our way to Clearwater Beach. It is wonderful, just as I remembered.

Then, I have my son and he is 2, and we take him and my daughter to the MK, as part of another trip. Are you sensing a theme here? We had never stayed on-property (nor did I have a clue what on-property even meant!) and we had never ventured into any of the other parks.

And then it happens- I pored over planning videos, books, you name it! And I found out that a new property was just opened called Pop Century, and we could actually stay there for about the same price I was paying to stay elsewhere (no, I don't sound brain-washed there do I? :rotfl2: ). I watched the part in the video about Pop Century so much that when we we first turned into the driveway to check-in, I had tears streaming down my face. I couldn’t stop saying, ‘I can’t believe we’re actually here!!’ And that was the day my love of all-things-Disney was born! :goodvibes


Up next, how did this trip come about?

************************************************** ***********
Trip Report starts here:


http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27411221&postcount=135
Day 1 - Is it time to go yet???

http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27417800&postcount=141
Day 1 - Swimming and such...

[stagemomx3]

I'm here, but you have to stop making me get all teary eyed!

[PISCESANGEL]

I'm here, but you have to stop making me get all teary eyed!


Aww...it'll get better I promise! Thanks for coming over to read Michelle! :goodvibes

[stagemomx3]

Aww...it'll get better I promise! Thanks for coming over to read Michelle! :goodvibes

No problem, but I am totally jealous that you get to go back so soon!

[PISCESANGEL]

No problem, but I am totally jealous that you get to go back so soon!

You'll see how it came about... it wasn't my easiest sell! ;)

[gbpackfan9]

You'll see how it came about... it wasn't my easiest sell! ;)

I'm back for your next report. Have you ever looked into DVC? We stayed on site for a number of trips before checking it out and I'm kicking myself for taking so long to join. Staying on site is the best. Transportation and meals are so convenient. Being a DVC member give us a great excuse (as if you need one) to travel to WDW 2-3 time per year.... Looking forward to your new report.

[PISCESANGEL]

I'm back for your next report. Have you ever looked into DVC? We stayed on site for a number of trips before checking it out and I'm kicking myself for taking so long to join. Staying on site is the best. Transportation and meals are so convenient. Being a DVC member give us a great excuse (as if you need one) to travel to WDW 2-3 time per year.... Looking forward to your new report.

I've thought about the DVC, but I haven't been able to figure out how points work, etc. to see if it would be a value for my family. I certainly agree that staying on property is the best, I wouldn't do it any other way now! :wizard:

Thanks for coming back to read my next report! :goodvibes

[kathleen27]

Looking forward to hearing about this trip too!


:yay: For free dining!

[MomofCKJ]

You need to tell me you are starting a new pre trippie! I was just cruising by the PTR board and saw you! What? A new report? I had no idea! Glad I found you! And so glad you are writing another one!

Allyson :)

[PISCESANGEL]

Looking forward to hearing about this trip too!


:yay: For free dining!

Thank you for coming back!! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

You need to tell me you are starting a new pre trippie! I was just cruising by the PTR board and saw you! What? A new report? I had no idea! Glad I found you! And so glad you are writing another one!

Allyson :)

Allyson- I'm happy you found me! This time around we have twice as many places to eat!! I can't wait to write this one! :yay: :yay: :yay:

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay, so now you probably want to know how it came to be that I convinced my DH to spend another six days in Disney World, when we just got back in April! :confused:

Well, this story all started last April. Tax refund time to be more specific… We got a pretty nice refund last year, and after thinking about how we could best spend some of that money, we decided we could put it towards a vacation. We talked it over with my oldest brother, my mom and my stepdad, and they were all thinking of heading to Disney in June for Star Wars weekends. My brother is the **ultimate** Star Wars fan! (And obviously, I didn’t need to be convinced!) So, we decided to go ahead and buy 7 day park hoppers with the Water Parks & More option, as well as the no-expiration option. With 7 days you get 6 days of the Water Parks & More, so with all those days to do water parks, DisneyQuest, etc. we would definitely need the no-expiration option. This trip was only going to be for 5 days!

:stir: Side note: Now, I don’t ever try to be underhanded but secretly I’m thinking, ‘wow, whatever we don’t use this time around would make the perfect excuse to go back, since we wouldn’t need to buy tickets the next time around…’ You get my drift? :stir:

So, we go to Disney with the fam in June. We used 3 park hopper passes, 1 water park pass, and 1 pass for DisneyQuest. It was a wonderful trip, and DH decided he really liked Disney water parks… ;)

Then……along the came the announcement for FREE DINING 2007! I immediately called DH and said, ‘We wouldn’t need to buy tickets see, so it would only cost xxx, see?? What do you think???’ He went for it! (Although I may have had to mention the lazy river at Blizzard Beach) We had another trip booked, and we hadn’t even left for the June trip – I told you I’m a fanatic!! :banana: Thus, we spent 4 days in Disney last September. We used 1 more park hopper pass, as well as the required 1 day pass that we had to purchase with the package, and 1 more water park pass. This left us with a grand total of 3 more park hopper passes, and 3 more Water Parks & More passes! Are you still with me? :rotfl2:


Fast forward to February this year and it is time to get itchy for a vacation. The kids are about to go on Spring Break and my DH is thinking, ‘I need to go to the beach!’ Sooo, I compromised and said, ‘how about a couple days in Daytona, and then maybe, just maybe darling, we could spend a couple of days in Disney, seeing as to how we already have tickets??’ He agreed. Man, does my DH love me or what? He must know how much I love Disney and how happy it really makes me. I am like a big child when he says yes, I just get a huge grin on my face and it lasts all day! :goodvibes

Okay, moving on... We return from our April trip with 2 park hoppers left, and 3 Water Parks & More Days. I did add dining to our package again, so we got another 1 day pass with the package, which is why we only used 1 day from the original 7 day pass. I hope this all makes sense!!

And I know what you’re thinking, ‘Enough with the math already woman!’ Get on with the trip!! :moped:

So, I ask my DH, literally the day we return, ‘If they offer Free Dining again, what are the chances you would want to go back in September?’ He said, ‘if it’s what you want, sure…’ Two days before, I read on the DIS that it is indeed going to be offered. Bad news is, the day before, my DH tells me he lost his job. Oh, what to do, what to do???? :confused3

I already had the $200 deposit saved, so I asked DH if he thought we should still go for it, or I should do the mature, responsible thing and save that money to pay bills, just in case. He told me to go for it. Did I mention how much I love that man? :love:

So I was up at the crack of dawn (ok, 10 minutes till 7) and I fired up the computer. By 7:03 am, the deed is done. I booked 5 days at the time at my first love Pop Century, Sunday through Friday, and later added Saturday after doing the math and seeing that Disney actually pays us by feeding us that extra day rather than staying in a random hotel the first day.

And, so our trip with Free Dining is born!

Okay so, do you want some ADR info? It’s up next!

[irky416]

I'm in.


Glad your DH was so easy to convince! I can't wait to see what your ADR's are!

[stagemomx3]

That is some very awesome Disney Math, I'm impressed!

[PISCESANGEL]

I'm in.


Glad your DH was so easy to convince! I can't wait to see what your ADR's are!


Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! pixiedust:



And you know, I thought my DH would be a lot harder to convince. You know, I was just sure he would say 'ENOUGH Woman!' But really... he must really, really love me... :goodvibes


Hey to all you lurkers, feel free to stop by and say 'hi!' :wave2:

[PISCESANGEL]

That is some very awesome Disney Math, I'm impressed!


Sometimes I can't decide if I'm really clever, or just plain crazy! :lmao:

[stagemomx3]

Sometimes I can't decide if I'm really clever, or just plain crazy! :lmao:

:rotfl2:

[MomofCKJ]

Wow, what a story! I'm impressed with how many trips you've squeaked out in the last 2 years! And your DH, whoa I wish mine was so on board with trips. Nice work!

Can't wait to hear your ADRs! I just know there's a Kona in there somewhere!

I'm still bummed that I am missing you by just a week! It would have been a blast to meet in person!

Allyson :)

[PISCESANGEL]

Wow, what a story! I'm impressed with how many trips you've squeaked out in the last 2 years! And your DH, whoa I wish mine was so on board with trips. Nice work!

Can't wait to hear your ADRs! I just know there's a Kona in there somewhere!

I'm still bummed that I am missing you by just a week! It would have been a blast to meet in person!

Allyson :)


Oh, I am so bummed I am missing you too! I would love to meet you as well!! :goodvibes

[disneychard]

I am looking forward to reading more.

:banana: :banana: :banana:

[PISCESANGEL]

I am looking forward to reading more.

:banana: :banana: :banana:


Welcome! Thanks for reading and joining in! :wizard:

[the4princesses]

sign me up!! I know what you mean about the wdw bug bite!!
Were hooked on wdw toooo!!
We are going back in Sept. with free dining!!
Can't wait!!:banana:
Kathy:dance3:

[PISCESANGEL]

sign me up!! I know what you mean about the wdw bug bite!!
Were hooked on wdw toooo!!
We are going back in Sept. with free dining!!
Can't wait!!:banana:
Kathy:dance3:


Oh Yay!! Thanks for joining in!! pixiedust:


Yes, I think once you've been bitten, there's no turning back... :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, as you've read in my last installment, my DH lost his job back at the beginning of April. It has been 2 long months and I have been going back and forth about whether I should keep the trip. :scared1:

So, this past Wednesday my DH was called into a second interview in a machine shop he was really hoping to get. He called me within 20 minutes and said it wasn't an interview, that they called him in to show him around and find out when he wanted to start! :yay:

It gets better. He started his new job on Thursday morning. And on Thursday afternoon, I was offered a promotion to Senior Accountant at my job! So the last few days have been a whirlwind of good news for us, and I am feeling the best I have yet about our upcoming trip! :cool1:

Just wanted to share my joy and as promised, I will tell you all about my ADRs soon!! ;)

[stagemomx3]

Congratulations to both you and your DH. That is great news!:cool1:

[irky416]

Congrats on all your good news!! :cool1:

[PISCESANGEL]

Congratulations to both you and your DH. That is great news!:cool1:



Thank you! I can finally breathe a sigh of relief... :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Congrats on all your good news!! :cool1:


Thank you very much! I am so jealous though, your ticker says 11 days - lucky you!! :woohoo:

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, as I said in my last installment, I had the green light to book this trip a couple of days before free dining was opened up to the public. I thought I would beat the crowds possibly by booking my ADRs before I even had my hotel reservation! Obviously, I knew I could just cancel them if it didn’t work out, but if my plan succeeded I would be eating at every place I wanted to this trip!:lovestruc


Let’s just say, the plan worked. Here is what I ended up with (all are for dinner):


Day 1-Grand Floridian Café

Day 2-'Ohana

Day 3-Boma

Day 4-LeCellier

Day 5-Kona Café

Day 6-Crystal Palace

I am obviously very excited about all of them, but I could not believe it when I got the LeCellier reservation!! :yay: I just have to experience that one for myself after all I’ve heard! Not to mention the ressie is about an hour and a half before Illuminations – it is perfect! :thumbsup2

After making these ADRs I was so pleased that I told my DD no matter what DO NOT let me change them! Of course that didn’t include GFC because I didn’t make that until later since we added the extra day. Sooo, I actually have been trying to see what else is available that day (it’s the only one I’m still a little unsure of ). I have called Disney Dining a couple of times, and each time I always have to confirm all of my ADRS just to be sure!! Is that too control-freakish? ::yes::

So there you have it. ADRs are (mostly) set in stone. We’re staying at the Pop Century, and we already have tickets. We’re all set! :moped:


Next up, what will we do after we finally get there…

[wdwgirl03]

Hey to all you lurkers, feel free to stop by and say 'hi!' :wave2:

Hi!!! Sounds like a great trip and I can't wait to read more! I am going to have to live through other people's trips for a while since I don't know when I'll be going back. :(

[PISCESANGEL]

Hi!!! Sounds like a great trip and I can't wait to read more! I am going to have to live through other people's trips for a while since I don't know when I'll be going back. :(


Thank you so much for saying Hi!! pixiedust:


I hope you get to go back soon too!

[kathleen27]

Congratulations on the promotion & the new job!!!:cool1:

The ADRs sound great!

[PISCESANGEL]

Congratulations on the promotion & the new job!!!:cool1:

The ADRs sound great!

Thank you very much! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Hey everyone!

I just wanted to check in and say that I would be open to some ideas if anybody has them for that first day possibly? :confused: We have eaten at Grand Floridian Cafe and I know they have wonderful food. I was just hoping for something more...I don't know, special on our first day...

We don't plan to go into any parks that day as we will be driving all night the night before and I really don't want to push it. This is going to be a relaxed, take our time, eat what we love and spend time together (whether the kids like it or not!) trip! :lmao:

So, any suggestions on that first day for a TS restaurant on the dining plan, not in the parks, that may be something new and fun for us to try?....

Thanks in advance for your help! :thumbsup2

[irky416]

Hey everyone!

I just wanted to check in and say that I would be open to some ideas if anybody has them for that first day possibly? :confused: We have eaten at Grand Floridian Cafe and I know they have wonderful food. I was just hoping for something more...I don't know, special on our first day...

We don't plan to go into any parks that day as we will be driving all night the night before and I really don't want to push it. This is going to be a relaxed, take our time, eat what we love and spend time together (whether the kids like it or not!) trip! :lmao:

So, any suggestions on that first day for a restaurant on the dining plan, not in the parks, that may be something new and fun for us to try?....

Thanks in advance for your help! :thumbsup2

I have no idea if it's on the dining plan or not, but what about Rainforest Cafe or Earl of Sandwich? (I want to say one of the two Rainforest Cafe's is on the Dining Plan from reading, but since I've never used it, I have no idea.)

[PISCESANGEL]

I have no idea if it's on the dining plan or not, but what about Rainforest Cafe or Earl of Sandwich? (I want to say one of the two Rainforest Cafe's is on the Dining Plan from reading, but since I've never used it, I have no idea.)


Oh yes! I forgot about Earl of Sandwich- have you eaten there? Do you like it? I'm pretty sure that one is a CS so I think we were going to try to do that for lunch one day possibly... I think we would probably like to get TS probably that first night.


And I'd be interested in knowing if Rainforest Cafe is on the plan...I'm not sure I've heard either way on that one...does anyone know about that one?

Thanks for your suggestions! :thumbsup2

[stagemomx3]

Earl of Sandwich is awesome! Go even if the line looks long, it moves fast!:thumbsup2

[PISCESANGEL]

Earl of Sandwich is awesome! Go even if the line looks long, it moves fast!:thumbsup2

Good to know!! :thumbsup2

[MomofCKJ]

First off congrats to you and DH on the job news! That is wonderful!

And how about trying the new Wave at the Contemporary? Then you can tell us all how it is!

Allyson

[PISCESANGEL]

First off congrats to you and DH on the job news! That is wonderful!

And how about trying the new Wave at the Contemporary? Then you can tell us all how it is!

Allyson



Thank you for the congratulations - I truly feel blessed. :goodvibes

And I looked up the new Wave on All Ears, and man, that place is beautiful! I didn't see it listed as a DDP restaurant though...does anyone know if it is included in the plan? :confused3

I'm definitely putting that one on the list to try one of these days if it isn't!

[gbpackfan9]

Congrats on the new job and promotion:yay: We too like to make a 2-3 trip a year to WDW. Good for you.... I don't know if RFC is in DDP or not. I've never used it, being that we are DVC members we do not pay extra for our rooms. Wolfgang Puck Cafe and Raglun Road in DTD are good but I don't know if they are on the DDP or not

[MomofCKJ]

I did a search on Wave DDP and found a recent thread. It is on the DDP and it is 1 TS. You should go for it! It looks yummy!

Allyson

[PISCESANGEL]

Congrats on the new job and promotion:yay: We too like to make a 2-3 trip a year to WDW. Good for you.... I don't know if RFC is in DDP or not. I've never used it, being that we are DVC members we do not pay extra for our rooms. Wolfgang Puck Cafe and Raglun Road in DTD are good but I don't know if they are on the DDP or not

Thanks for coming by and for the good wishes! :goodvibes

I will have to check the menus out for RR and WPC too...



And thanks to everyone for all of the great ideas. :idea: After I get a few more, and find out if they are part of the DDP of course, I will go back to my family and take a vote...then it's off to make a call to Disney Dining to see what is available!

Keep those ideas coming! :thumbsup2

[PISCESANGEL]

I did a search on Wave DDP and found a recent thread. It is on the DDP and it is 1 TS. You should go for it! It looks yummy!

Allyson


Thanks so much for checking into that! I have to show DH the menu and see if he will go for it because that one looks kinda different on AllEars... he is rather on the picky side... ::yes::

As for me...I'm all for it! :thumbsup2

[tiggerbell]

I'm IN!!! :thumbsup2 - we are also there that week! :cool1:

[PISCESANGEL]

I'm IN!!! :thumbsup2 - we are also there that week! :cool1:

Thank you so much for joining!! :goodvibes


Do you have a pre-trippie for your upcoming trip? ;)

[tiggerbell]

Thank you so much for joining!! :goodvibes


Do you have a pre-trippie for your upcoming trip? ;)

Self promotion is good for the soul, I believe!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1682692

[2xcited2sleep]

Another one climbing aboard. popcorn:: Free dining sounds awesome. I have yet to try that but one of these days! And congratulations on the work news for both you and DH... that makes the trip even better - no worries to take along with you!!

[PISCESANGEL]

Self promotion is good for the soul, I believe!*http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1682692

I agree! :goodvibes

Another one climbing aboard.* popcorn::* Free dining sounds awesome.* I have yet to try that but one of these days!* And congratulations on the work news for both you and DH... that makes the trip even better - no worries to take along with you!!

WELCOME! pixiedust: *

I do hope you get to try free dining sometime, though you may never want to go back to WDW without the DDP again!* We always feel so spoiled!!* :cloud9: Thank you for the congratulations too, two words come to mind...

HAKUNA MATATA!** :rotfl:

[PISCESANGEL]

Well... it's been a little while. With my promotion I am working alot of hours and coming home exhausted! :faint:


It doesn't help that I can't even get to the Disboards at work, because they placed a web filter on our internet and apparently we aren't allowed to look at message boards anymore...not that I did when I was working of course, but I definitely liked to on my lunch break. :badpc:

Oh well, moving on...


Today I got a text message from my daughter that said:

DD: It dawned on me today...U are taking me to Disney World! U r the greatest mom in the world and i love u!
Me: Aww i love u2 ur the best!
DD: So are we eating at the Wave?
Me: Not sure yet
DD: We should...it sounds fancy and fun
Me: I will have to call and c if it is available...
DD: k

Sooo....I came home from work and got on the phone. I got a lovely CM. I asked to make sure that the Wave is on the dining plan. She said yes (of course! how could I ever doubt you Allyson?!) ;)

Then I asked her about availability for the date of our arrival for dinner. She gave me a whole bunch of choices! I was pleasantly surprised and I got the exact time I was hoping for! :thumbsup2

So we're all set. Day 1 we hit the Wave and I can't wait! :banana:

[MomofCKJ]

WHOOOO HOOOOOO!

I am excited you are going! It looks really cool and the Podcast had a review and they really loved it! I can't wait to hear all about it! I'm tempted to try it myself. Oh so tempted!

Sorry they are keeping you out at work. That is a bummer. I work from home and I usually have work in one window and the DIS in another. It is a dangerous thing! LOL!

Allyson

[PISCESANGEL]

WHOOOO HOOOOOO!

I am excited you are going! It looks really cool and the Podcast had a review and they really loved it! I can't wait to hear all about it! I'm tempted to try it myself. Oh so tempted!

Sorry they are keeping you out at work. That is a bummer. I work from home and I usually have work in one window and the DIS in another. It is a dangerous thing! LOL!

Allyson

Thanks again for the suggestion! You shouldn't completely rule it out...it might be really wonderful...


And I am so jealous that you get to stay connected all day! I miss the Disboards terribly! :(

[stagemomx3]

Love the text messages!

[PISCESANGEL]

Love the text messages!



Thank you, me too - that first one from my DD just made my day!


:goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay, so we have transportation figured out. We plan to rent a car the afternoon before and pack it up before our kids get out of school that day. Then we'll probably eat some dinner and get on the road. :moped:

The way I figure it, we will be driving all night and arrive very early the next morning. I haven't completely figured out what we want to do when we arrive, but I have a feeling it will involve some McD's and a chair by the pool... :goodvibes

After we are able to check in and get our room we will probably just stay at the hotel and get some rest. That night is our first (free!) DDP dinner, and I am really looking forward to heading to the Contemporary to check out the new restaurant The Wave! :banana:

Our second day we are just going to play it by ear... We are still considering whether or not we would like to use a park pass this day, but we are also thinking of going to a water park. This is all dependent on what Angie (my DD16) and JB (my DS9) want to do that day because they would like to look at the pool schedule for the week. If there are any games they are really interested in on day two or day three, they would like to spend that day poolside. :cool1:

So, talk about compromising the control freak in me, but it's okay because I have blocked off those first two full days as open for change. I've come to realize that if everybody doesn't get enjoyment out of the trip, we're missing the point. So I'm hoping everyone will get to do at least one thing they really wanted to this time around. ;)

Dinner on day 2 is 'Ohana. I can't wait to try the new menu and see if my family still likes this one. I like the idea of the noodles, but I'm really just hoping the bread pudding is still there!! :lovestruc

Dinner on day 3 is Boma. We love us some Boma. :love: Enough said!

On to day four, we are looking at spending the morning at HS and having lunch there. I would really like to get here at opening as we never have made it in time, but I guess we'll see... After lunch, we will probably take a short break and head to Epcot. This night, I can't wait for dinner because we are finally going to try LeCellier... I know that it has changed alot and I have heard mixed reviews of the changes, but I'm still anxious to see it! I'm also putting on my list to look for that grey goose slushie and the schoolbread!! :bitelip:

Day 5 is another off day. We may do a water park or just stay poolside. We may even take my DH on a fishing excursion... As you can see, this is going to be our 'relaxed, take our sweet time, do whatever we want and eat LOTS of yummy food' trip! On one of these off days though I do want to fit in a CS at either Wolfgang Puck's Cafe or Earl of Sandwich, and an evening of shopping in Downtown Disney. Who knows when, but that's okay!
Dinner on day 5 is KONA. Can I just say 'yum!!' ;)

Day 6 is our last full day. We are definitely doing the MK this day and they have EMH that day so I really hope it isn't crazy busy. Again, it will be my goal to get here early enough for the good morning show, but with my family, you never know... This evening's dinner will be at the Crystal Palace, and we are definitely looking forward to this one as well, as this is another one we have never tried!

Day 7 is check out day, and sadly we will be in the car the whole day, only to collapse in our beds at about 3am again. Now...if only I could speed up these next two months just a smidge...

:rotfl:

[stagemomx3]

All your dinners sound great!

[irky416]

Your dinners and plans sound wonderful!

[PISCESANGEL]

All your dinners sound great!

Thank you. ;) It's taken a few trips now to narrow it down to our must-do dinners for this trip!

Your dinners and plans sound wonderful!

Thank you very much. :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

As you can see, this is going to be our 'relaxed, take our sweet time, do whatever we want and eat LOTS of yummy food' trip!


Sounds absolutely perfect! :goodvibes

[Step]

Subbing.

Looks like you have the same taste in restaurants we do. Seems you're in for a yummy experience!

[PISCESANGEL]

Sounds absolutely perfect! :goodvibes


Aww... thank you! I'm really looking forward to this trip! :goodvibes

Subbing.

Looks like you have the same taste in restaurants we do. Seems you're in for a yummy experience!


I see you are heading down at the same time - I will make sure to come over and take a look at your PTR too! :thumbsup2

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay, so my DD Angie has always been intrigued by the Coronado Springs resort. Can anyone tell me if we are able to go there one day for lunch? Has anyone been to the Pepper Market that could tell me if it would be worth a trip there?

Also, can we just look around the hotel after lunch? Just wondering...

Thanks for any input you can give! :thumbsup2

[MomofCKJ]

Your itinerary sounds great! Lots of delicious places on there and nice that you are keeping this a relaxed laid back trip! I bet you'll all enjoy that! How long of a drive is it for you to get there?

We are staying at CSR in January. I have both good and bad on the Pepper Market. I'm excited to stay there though. Looks like a beautiful resort!

Allyson :)

[PISCESANGEL]

Your itinerary sounds great! Lots of delicious places on there and nice that you are keeping this a relaxed laid back trip! I bet you'll all enjoy that! How long of a drive is it for you to get there?

We are staying at CSR in January. I have both good and bad on the Pepper Market. I'm excited to stay there though. Looks like a beautiful resort!

Allyson :)

The drive is roughly 17-18 hours (16 when DH pushes it!) so I'm thinking we'll arrive between 10am - noon.

CSR does look like a beautiful resort - I guess we'll just try the Pepper Market and see! ;)

[MomofCKJ]

Rescuing you from like page four!

Come back, anything new?

Allyson :)

[PISCESANGEL]

Rescuing you from like page four!

Come back, anything new?

Allyson :)

Allyson - thanks for the rescue!! ;)

As a matter of fact, I do have one minor update: my trip is officially paid in full as of today! :woohoo:

Other than that, I've just been very busy at work and totally losing track of time! I can't believe I'm only 50 days away now!!

Hopefully, I'll be able to get back on my 'Dis track' again soon... I need to catch up on everyone else's TRs!

Thanks to everyone who is still reading for hangin' in there... :goodvibes



.

[stagemomx3]

As a matter of fact, I do have one minor update: my trip is officially paid in full as of today! :woohoo:

:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: Congrats on paying off the trip!:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[PISCESANGEL]

:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: Congrats on paying off the trip!:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:



I was worried for a little bit there, so I appreciate this trip even more!

Thank you so much for your congratulations! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Remember when I said that we were leaving those first 2 days open for changes?...

Well, I'm thinking about having a girl's day on that first full day that we are there. I started to realize it would be like DAY 4 (!) before we would even be in a park!! What was I thinking??? :lmao:

So, I thought about offering it to the guys to come along, but if they just want to stick around the pool, that is okay by me. Me and Angie need our park time in a big way! :hyper2: I have a feeling it will be a while before I get to go back again, so this is the trip to do as much as possible!

My girl and I were talking and we think we may start the day in the MK to get things started, then head over to HS for a while to do a few of our favorites. I mostly want to spend our time in Epcot this day though so that we can really take our time in the countries. I never get to do that for some reason.

But I also like Allyson's idea on her PTR (if you haven't been there, you should go read hers too!) about just getting on the first bus that pulls up. I know my DD is down with trying just about anything and that just might work for us too. Decisions, decisions!

So, that's the latest. I am getting so anxious now! :banana: :dance3:

[Lady Lallie]

I've caught up on your PTR. I think we are going to be there the exact same time, it's our first time for free dining and I am really excited. You just have to love FREE dining. :goodvibes

Your ADR's look great, I have changed my a bazillion times so I am really impressed your have done the ADR shuffle. :thumbsup2

[MomofCKJ]

First of big YEAH on paying off the trip! Doesn't that always feel good? And now you can do the "run to the mailbox is the Disney mail here yet" thing! I keep checking, it has to be soon! I'm at 39 days now!

And I think a girl's day is a wonderful idea! You two should hit the parks together! Maybe you should be real crazy and try to set foot in all 4 parks in one day, just hitting a few faves each time!

Allyson

[kathleen27]

A girl's day sounds great!
I'm sure you'll be happy you are in the parks that first day!

Congrats on paying the trip off!!:cool1:

[PISCESANGEL]

I've caught up on your PTR. I think we are going to be there the exact same time, it's our first time for free dining and I am really excited. You just have to love FREE dining. :goodvibes

Your ADR's look great, I have changed my a bazillion times so I am really impressed your have done the ADR shuffle. :thumbsup2

Yes, I agree - FREE dining is awesome! :love: And I probably would have changed my ADRs a hundred times if it wasn't for my DD - she keeps me on track! Thanks for reading! :flower3:


First off a big YEAH on paying off the trip! Doesn't that always feel good? And now you can do the "run to the mailbox is the Disney mail here yet" thing! I keep checking, it has to be soon! I'm at 39 days now!

And I think a girl's day is a wonderful idea! You two should hit the parks together! Maybe you should be real crazy and try to set foot in all 4 parks in one day, just hitting a few faves each time!

Allyson

I am just thrilled that I have paid off the trip, but I forgot all about the excitement of looking for my Disney mail!! Thanks for the reminder! :thumbsup2

Girl's day should be great fun...I've just decide to let Angie (my DD) make an itinerary for us, and it will just be a surprise for me! :goodvibes

A girl's day sounds great!
I'm sure you'll be happy you are in the parks that first day!

Congrats on paying the trip off!!:cool1:

Yes, I think it would feel strange not to be in the parks on the first day, so I'm happy I figured that out before I got there... :lmao:

Thanks for the congratulations - I'm so happy to have that worry behind me! :woohoo:




Thanks everyone for reading and for your responses - I'll be back soon... :wizard:

[PISCESANGEL]

So I sat down with Angie (my DD16) last night to do some serious Disney trip planning! :teacher: We decided it would be fun to have a Disney movie marathon in preparation of our upcoming trip! :happytv: Here is the line-up for this week:

Monday: Peter Pan (the animated version of course!)

Tuesday: The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Wednesday: Robin Hood (again, the animated version)

Thursday: Hercules

Friday: no movie - we usually go out for family night ;)

Saturday: DOUBLE Feature Night** Pocahontas, Pocahontas II

We figured we really haven't seen a lot of these movies in a long time, so every week leading up to vacation we are going to watch them... I'm really looking forward to it! :yay:


Also during the course of our discussion we made a packing list (ok, another packing list!) and realized we are pretty much set, other than buying some cereal for the room and some snacks for the car. I'm considering buying a new digital camera because I would love to have GREAT pictures to share with all of you...but I'm also thinking that it may cut into my Disney spending money $$$... dilemmas, dilemmas... :confused3


We also made sure to have printed menus to add to our DISNEY BINDER*, and even went so far as to discuss what we will be ordering and where! :lmao:

Our final list was must-have snacks!! This is the most important list of course and includes:

Strawberry Swirl
Dole Whip Float
Mickey Rice Krispy Treat
School bread
Grey Goose slushie
Soft pretzel
Bucket of popcorn
Funnel cake
Hard-serve ice cream cone
French toast loaf

I think that is all we came up with so far, but of course we left room to add more! :rotfl:

side note: *The DISNEY BINDER is a collection of all lists, confirmation numbers, confirmation letters, plans, itineraries, menus, etc. etc... that I use to keep all of our trips organized. My girl Angie made it for me for my birthday last year and I just continue to add to it - I love it! :lovestruc

So, there you have it... Disney planning is back in full gear! It's almost time for that Disney mail now!! :wizard:

[stagemomx3]

Those are some of my favorites. Peter Pan is going to be on ABCFamily Saturday night.

[PISCESANGEL]

Those are some of my favorites. Peter Pan is going to be on ABCFamily Saturday night.


I belong to the Disney Movie Club and they recently had a 60% off sale, so I stocked up!! :goodvibes

[kathleen27]

Strawberry swirl doesn't sound familiar.
Sounds good though! What/Where is it?

That's so sweet that your dd is planning the first day!
What a nice surprise!!!

The movie marathon sounds great.

How do you like the movie club?
Do you have to send a card back every month?
I don't do well with those.
A lot of our old videos could use an upgrade to DVD.
Plus there are plenty we don't have.

[PISCESANGEL]

Strawberry swirl doesn't sound familiar.
Sounds good though! What/Where is it?

That's so sweet that your dd is planning the first day!
What a nice surprise!!!

The movie marathon sounds great.

How do you like the movie club?
Do you have to send a card back every month?
I don't do well with those.
A lot of our old videos could use an upgrade to DVD.
Plus there are plenty we don't have.

The Strawberry Swirl is at the Enchanted Grove snack stand in Fantasyland, closer to ToonTown... it's a delicious vanilla and strawberry sherbert swirl reminiscent of the Dole Whip :cloud9:

Yes, Angie took her job seriously and has been hard at work on getting the first day's itinerary put together - I can't wait to hear what she has come up with!

I love the Disney movie club! I don't usually do well with those sorts of things either, but you can also reply online and they give you plenty of time. They will send you a postcard too which is usually my reminder, but then I just go online and in one click, I'm done.

After you fulfill your original obligation you get free shipping for life as a VIP, and they have great deals a couple of times a year. For example, when I purchased my most recent movies I just paid full price for the first movie and the rest were 60% off! I got to really update my collection for not a lot of moula! :3dglasses

If you are interested feel free to PM me with your name and e-mail and I will refer you on their website, which they will then send you an e-mail and give you a deal for signing up. Either way, I highly recommend it!

Thanks for reading! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay, so I decided to go through my old photos of our previous trips to Disney World (of course!) and I found this pic of our son's first trip:


http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/jbsfirst.jpg


(Looky Michelle! I color-coordinated my family too! ;) And isn't it funny how both of our DH's just go their own way... )


And here are a few more...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/JBdaddy.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/angiejb.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/daddycoke.jpg

I just thought I'd share a few pics, as I am less than 5 weeks away now and I can't wait!!

Oh, and here is next week's movie line-up:

Monday - Who Framed Roger Rabbit

Tuesday - Lilo & Stitch

Wednesday - Monsters Inc.

Thursday - Finding Nemo


I can't believe how quickly the time is going now! I have my fanny pack ready now and I've even got my toiletries packed... it won't be long now! :dance3:

[stagemomx3]

(Looky Michelle! I color-coordinated my family too! ;) And isn't it funny how both of our DH's just go their own way... )

:lmao: I like the red!

[Step]

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/daddycoke.jpg

I just thought I'd share a few pics, as I am less than 5 weeks away now and I can't wait!!


Ok, I am LMAO at this picture. Funny how two people in WDW years apart can take the same photo!

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn211/richarsj/DisneyMoon2006/DSCN8893.jpg

Less than 5 weeks here as well! :cool1:

[PISCESANGEL]

:lmao: I like the red!

Thank you! And I just came across my DS' little Mickey shirt a few days ago...I can't part with it - it is just too cute! :goodvibes

Ok, I am LMAO at this picture. Funny how two people in WDW years apart can take the same photo!

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn211/richarsj/DisneyMoon2006/DSCN8893.jpg

Less than 5 weeks here as well! :cool1:


:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: I can't believe our pics are the same!! I showed my DH and he got a kick out of that... ;)

Congrats on being less than 5 weeks away as well! :cheer2: :cheer2:

[the4princesses]

HI WAS THE COKE AT MGM?
THAT'S NEAT!!:banana:

[PISCESANGEL]

HI WAS THE COKE AT MGM?
THAT'S NEAT!!:banana:

Yes, it is! It's a little off the beaten path, but if I remember correctly it's near the Backlot Tour... ;)

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, we are down to only 27 days!! I received my Disney mail which was a highlight of my very busy week! :scared:

Speaking of Disney mail...I don't know if anyone else has the Water Parks & More ticket option or not, but in our package there was an insert about the options changing. As of Sept. 28th, all of the nightclubs in Pleasure Island will be closed. They are now offering a 9-hole round of golf at Disney's Oak Trail golf course.

We still have 3 days left for the Water Parks & More, but I've never played golf so I'm not sure that's something we would use, but hey, maybe some of you will be interested in that! :thumbsup2

As for planning around here - I just booked my car rental and got a really great deal! ;) We are getting a full size car this time around because the last time we had an SUV it seemed to be even more cramped than a car! And we don't want to go the mini van route with the way gas prices are these days!!

So now I have a full on teenage girl and a 9-yr-old boy sharing the back seat for about 17-18 hours! :scared1:

On a dining note...it might be the control freak in me, but I called Disney dining today and confirmed all of my ADRs as well. :lovestruc There is nothing more satisfying for me than to hear them read off my ADRS, because I think I'm looking forward to the food the most! :yay:

As for the movie schedule this week, I think I am going to be less ambitious and try to at least watch The Little Mermaid and Toy Story. We have mostly kept on track with our movie schedule, but it's hard to find time for all of us to sit down and watch a movie together... so I'm just playing that by ear this week!

Well, time seems to be flying, and not going fast enough all at the same time these days. I think I've done everything possible, aside from actually packing my bags at this point.

I ... can't ... wait... :rotfl:

[Step]

I called to change our ADR on our last night at Disney, and also had them recite every ADR to me at the end of the call, lol.

[PISCESANGEL]

I called to change our ADR on our last night at Disney, and also had them recite every ADR to me at the end of the call, lol.


A girl after my own heart... LOL! :goodvibes

[MomofCKJ]

Just popping in to say HI! Hope all is well! It won't be long now!

Allyson :)

[Grace and Mickey]

:wave2: hi just read your trip report, you have lots of good plans. We will be going in Sept too but not until 2009. We are looking at some of the resturants you are eating at, so am looking forward to reading your reviews. We live in Ohio too. It will be our grandson 1st trip.

[PISCESANGEL]

Just popping in to say HI! Hope all is well! It won't be long now!

Allyson :)

HI! :wave2:
It won't be long for either of us!! :teleport:

Thank you for stopping by... :goodvibes

:wave2: hi just read your trip report, you have lots of good plans. We will be going in Sept too but not until 2009. We are looking at some of the resturants you are eating at, so am looking forward to reading your reviews. We live in Ohio too. It will be our grandson 1st trip.

:welcome: Thank you for coming by and reading! I hope to have a lot of details, not to mention pictures! I will be happy to answer any questions you have when I return as well...

So what part of Ohio are you from? How old is your grandson? I'm sure the time will fly by and it will be here before you know it! :thumbsup2

[Grace and Mickey]

HI! :wave2:
It won't be long for either of us!! :teleport:

Thank you for stopping by... :goodvibes



:welcome: Thank you for coming by and reading! I hope to have a lot of details, not to mention pictures! I will be happy to answer any questions you have when I return as well...

So what part of Ohio are you from? How old is your grandson? I'm sure the time will fly by and it will be here before you know it! :thumbsup2

Thanks for the welcome. My grandson will be almost 3 when we go. I call him Grandma's little mickey. We will also have dd ( his mother) my sil#1 and dd #2 and sil#2 and my hubby or poppa ( as grandson call him)
We live in Kent ( the college town) We will be celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary on our trip.

[irky416]

Glad to hear things are coming together for you!

I just watched Who Framed Roger Rabbit for the first time last week.

[PISCESANGEL]

Thanks for the welcome. My grandson will be almost 3 when we go. I call him Grandma's little mickey. We will also have dd ( his mother) my sil#1 and dd #2 and sil#2 and my hubby or poppa ( as grandson call him)
We live in Kent ( the college town) We will be celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary on our trip.

That is so sweet. I hope you all have a wonderful trip! :goodvibes

Glad to hear things are coming together for you!

I just watched Who Framed Roger Rabbit for the first time last week.

Thank you! I am getting so anxious!!

And I would have to say that I liked WFRR a lot more as a child - but it is still a good one! ;)

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Hi there,
Have just started reading your PTR, great pics!!
I'm so jealous, your DH is great - where can I find one just like him!
Keep posting!

[PISCESANGEL]

Hi there,
Have just started reading your PTR, great pics!!
I'm so jealous, your DH is great - where can I find one just like him!
Keep posting!


Welcome! pixiedust:

Thank you for your kind comments...
and please, keep reading! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Well....we're getting close here - only 11 days!! :yay: :yay: :yay:

I don't think it has really hit me yet that it is so close. I have been doing all of the usual things to prepare. I started my pile of things that need to go with us... coffee maker, coffee cups, coffee (yes coffee is important!), snacks for the kids in the car, bottled water, cans of soda, juice boxes, chargers, etc.

But it still doesn't feel real just yet. I need to remember to pull out my cds. I simply couldn't forget the Bananarama cd, or it may throw off the whole mojo of the trip! KWIM? :goodvibes

I have been tracking the weather as well. Good ole Fay. I really hope that the rain will lessen a bit by the time we are there, but I am going to remember the ponchos as well, just in case.

I'm waiting on a new bathing suit from the Disney Store online too. I found the Mickey tankini swimsuit for only $9.99! It is adorable, and I was in need of a new suit, so this one is perfect! (Not to mention, I found a cute Jasmine t-shirt as well!)

I think that is all for now. It is still too soon to pack although I have started to organize a section of my closet for clothes that definitely need to go with me. I even have the shoes together in a little section on the floor in my closet! I'm so glad I have you DISsers to tell because the average person might think I'm a bit crazy!!! :laughing:

I hope everyone is having a great week, and I hope that any of you heading down sooner won't be too affected by Fay.

Until next time... :flower3:

[irky416]

11 days!!!! Hopefully Fay will be gone by then.

I love packing! Just reading about yours makes me sad I have no reason got pack for awhile!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

You must be so excited!! Only 10 days!! :dance3:
And I don't think you're mad - I'm restraining myself from packing just now. I'll probably start packing everything the week before, but I keep running through in my head everything we'll need - you need to be organised!

But it still doesn't feel real just yet.

I know how you feel, for me I don't think it will be real until we're sitting on the plane!!

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you re Fay :love:

[PISCESANGEL]

11 days!!!! Hopefully Fay will be gone by then.

I love packing! Just reading about yours makes me sad I have no reason got pack for awhile!

Well, it's never too soon to start planning a trip back! ;)
And yes, I do hope Fay will be gone, and all other tropical storms/hurricanes.... :rolleyes:

You must be so excited!! Only 10 days!! :dance3:
And I don't think you're mad - I'm restraining myself from packing just now. I'll probably start packing everything the week before, but I keep running through in my head everything we'll need - you need to be organised!


I know how you feel, for me I don't think it will be real until we're sitting on the plane!!

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you re Fay :love:

Yes, I am WAY excited - we are hitting single digits tomorrow! It won't be long now!

I'm so jealous that you're flying!! :goodvibes



Thank you both for your well wishes about Fay!

[Step]

11 days for me too! WOOOOOHOOOOOO!
:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[PISCESANGEL]

11 days for me too! WOOOOOHOOOOOO!
:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

I'm so happy for you too!! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay, well, I got my new bathing suit today...and the Jasmine t-shirt. Let's just say there are some size issues! :confused3

First of all, I was thinking of ordering the bathing suit in my usual size. Then I thought, hmmm... that sure looks small on the model there so maybe I will just go up one size, because I sometimes wear jeans in that size when I'm not feeling so skinny... ;) But, when I opened the package, it was HUGE! I'm talking, totally sagging off of me! I thought to myself what should I do? There is barely going to be time for them to send a replacement, let alone send this one back first.

So, I called the Disney Store guest services. I explained that I was leaving next week (!) and that I would like to see if I could go ahead and purchase another one and not be charged for shipping, and then I would send this one back and pay for the shipping. The CM was so lovely! She said, don't worry about sending that one back, and we will send you a new one in the size you would like!! You can just give the other one to charity because it is going to cost you more to ship it than to get another one.

What?! Did I hear that correctly? I was going to get a replacement, for FREE! She ended the conversation by saying, 'have a magical day!' pixiedust:

Oh yes, I did have a magical day!

So, now the replacement is on its way, and I am super happy. But, then we get to the Jasmine shirt. I ordered a large. But guess what? It was a little girl's size large! :rotfl: I haven't decided if I should just pay the kindness forward and bring the shirt along with us to Disney? I could find some random little girl and just give her the shirt? Or should I just give that to charity as well? There are tags on it and everything so it doesn't look used or anything. I need my DISsers to tell me what you think! I don't want to look like a stalker or anything! :lmao:

By the way... I'm in single digits now... yes! Single Digits!!!!! :banana: :banana:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Single digits!!!!!:cool1:
That was so nice of the CM to do that! Truly Disney rule! :worship:
I know what you mean about the T shirt - it would be lovely to give it to a wee girl at WDW - you would just have to explain to the parents at first.
But giving to charity is always good :angel: . Is there a children's hospital/hospice near you? I'm sure they would appreciate it. :hug:

[Step]

This is why I never buy clothes online, lol. It's so hard to tell if you bought the right size without trying the item on.

eeeeeeee! 9 days!

[2xcited2sleep]

Single digit dance...yahoo!! :cool1: :banana:

And what awesome customer service on the bathing suit! :thumbsup2

[PISCESANGEL]

Single digits!!!!!:cool1:
That was so nice of the CM to do that! Truly Disney rule! :worship:
I know what you mean about the T shirt - it would be lovely to give it to a wee girl at WDW - you would just have to explain to the parents at first.
But giving to charity is always good :angel: . Is there a children's hospital/hospice near you? I'm sure they would appreciate it. :hug:

Yes, I think I will just give it to charity. Some little girl will be very happy. ;)

This is why I never buy clothes online, lol. It's so hard to tell if you bought the right size without trying the item on.

eeeeeeee! 9 days!

I usually make it a rule not to buy online, but you know, I couldn't pass up that Mickey bathing suit! I'm such a nerd! :lmao:

Single digit dance...yahoo!! :cool1: :banana:

And what awesome customer service on the bathing suit! :thumbsup2

Yeah, technically speaking I have 6 days because we are leaving this Friday evening...we just won't be there until Saturday, which is why my counter says a week. But I like saying I have only 6 days now!! :banana: :banana:

And naturally, Disney really came through on their customer service. Hence the reason I took a chance... :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, we're down to 4 days now!! :woohoo:

And I received my replacement bathing suit in the mail today! Was that fast or what?! So I tried it on and drum roll.... it fits! I'm so happy that that is all taken care of now, and I will have 2 suits to take with me so I can switch off when one is wet, etc.

I've had a super busy week at work so far and it's only Tuesday! Which means I have done zero, zip, nada to get ready. I wanted to at least make sure everything is in one place to be ready to be packed, but no so far. Maybe I will get some energy here in a bit and do some laundry. :laundy: yea right! :lmao:

I also wanted to share what happened at work today. On an annual basis we have a staff outing which usually includes some sort of team building exercise. Well, my group was supposed to talk about ourselves and that included a question about our hobbies. I said my favorite hobby was to plan and take trips to Disney World! (duh, as if you all didn't know ;) ) Anyway, I actually had to stand up and announce that as being my hobby because my table felt like my hobby was the most unusual of everyone's at the table! :grouphug: Granted, most everyone's involved reading, shopping, etc, I didn't think mine was all that unusual - right? I mean, you all agree that it's perfectly normal, right? :rotfl:

So, it was fun anyway. I always enjoy whatever chance I get to talk about Disney World, especially when I'm only 4 days away...

Well, hopefully I will get some stuff done tonight and it will be time to go before I know it! Have a good one all! :flower3:

[Grace and Mickey]

:dance3: :dance3: :dance3: :dance3: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:
:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :donald: :donald: :donald: :donald:

4 days 4 days 4 days 4 days!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy 4 days Have a wonderful trip!!!!

[PISCESANGEL]

:dance3: :dance3: :dance3: :dance3: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:
:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :mickeyjum :donald: :donald: :donald: :donald:

4 days 4 days 4 days 4 days!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy 4 days Have a wonderful trip!!!!

THANK YOU!! :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes

[stagemomx3]

:woohoo: 4 days! Conrats on the swimsuit.

[PISCESANGEL]

:woohoo: 4 days! Conrats on the swimsuit.

Thank you, and I'm so glad the swimsuit worked out too! :goodvibes

[irky416]

I'm glad your bathing suit fits! I always take two for the same reason. There's nothing worse to me than putting on a wet bathing suit.

Haha about having to share your hobby! :rotfl2: I certainly don't think planning trips is a weird/unusual hobby!

[PISCESANGEL]

I'm glad your bathing suit fits! I always take two for the same reason. There's nothing worse to me than putting on a wet bathing suit.

Haha about having to share your hobby! :rotfl2: I certainly don't think planning trips is a weird/unusual hobby!


It's just a little embarrassing when you share your hobby with 100 of your closest co-workers! :laughing:

[MomofCKJ]

Three days now right? Yeah! I'm excited for you! Hoping you get the sunshine and not the rain! Though you can whip through attractions in the rain ponchos and wet feet get old pretty quick!

Excited for your trip and to hear your tale when you return!

Allyson

PS Kona was all I had hoped it would be! :lovestruc

[PISCESANGEL]

Three days now right? Yeah! I'm excited for you! Hoping you get the sunshine and not the rain! Though you can whip through attractions in the rain ponchos and wet feet get old pretty quick!

Excited for your trip and to hear your tale when you return!

Allyson

PS Kona was all I had hoped it would be! :lovestruc

Yeah, 3 days from right now we will have just finished our first night's dinner at the Wave! :cool1: I'm not excited or anything... ;)

I've been watching the weather and I have to admit that I'm definitely worried about all the rain though! Hopefully it will work to our advantage and be less crowded maybe... :crowded:

And I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed KONA!! Can't wait to read your TR and hear all about it! :goodvibes

[kathleen27]

I received my replacement bathing suit in the mail today! Was that fast or what?! So I tried it on and drum roll.... it fits! I'm so happy that that is all taken care of now, and I will have 2 suits to take with me so I can switch off when one is wet, etc.

I also wanted to share what happened at work today. On an annual basis we have a staff outing which usually includes some sort of team building exercise. Well, my group was supposed to talk about ourselves and that included a question about our hobbies. I said my favorite hobby was to plan and take trips to Disney World! (duh, as if you all didn't know ;) ) Anyway, I actually had to stand up and announce that as being my hobby because my table felt like my hobby was the most unusual of everyone's at the table! :grouphug: Granted, most everyone's involved reading, shopping, etc, I didn't think mine was all that unusual - right? I mean, you all agree that it's perfectly normal, right? :rotfl:

:lmao:
That's a perfectly normal hobby.
And it even involves reading and shopping. :rolleyes1

Glad you got a new bathing suit and it fits. That was great of Disney shopping!

Have a wonderful trip!!! :goodvibes

Good Luck with the weather.

[PISCESANGEL]

:lmao:
That's a perfectly normal hobby.
And it even involves reading and shopping. :rolleyes1

Glad you got a new bathing suit and it fits. That was great of Disney shopping!

Have a wonderful trip!!! :goodvibes

Good Luck with the weather.


What a great way to look at things! :rotfl:

And thank you for your luck and good wishes - I hope it doesn't rain too much! :dance3:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Well, we're down to 4 days now!! :woohoo:

And I received my replacement bathing suit in the mail today! Was that fast or what?! So I tried it on and drum roll.... it fits! I'm so happy that that is all taken care of now, and I will have 2 suits to take with me so I can switch off when one is wet, etc.

I've had a super busy week at work so far and it's only Tuesday! Which means I have done zero, zip, nada to get ready. I wanted to at least make sure everything is in one place to be ready to be packed, but no so far. Maybe I will get some energy here in a bit and do some laundry. :laundy: yea right! :lmao:

I also wanted to share what happened at work today. On an annual basis we have a staff outing which usually includes some sort of team building exercise. Well, my group was supposed to talk about ourselves and that included a question about our hobbies. I said my favorite hobby was to plan and take trips to Disney World! (duh, as if you all didn't know ;) ) Anyway, I actually had to stand up and announce that as being my hobby because my table felt like my hobby was the most unusual of everyone's at the table! :grouphug: Granted, most everyone's involved reading, shopping, etc, I didn't think mine was all that unusual - right? I mean, you all agree that it's perfectly normal, right? :rotfl:

So, it was fun anyway. I always enjoy whatever chance I get to talk about Disney World, especially when I'm only 4 days away...

Well, hopefully I will get some stuff done tonight and it will be time to go before I know it! Have a good one all! :flower3:

I'd say completely normal....as kathleen said it involves shopping and reading...and when you get there: walking, social interaction, thrill seeking....it's certainly more normal than bungee jumping! :rotfl: ...or stamp collecting :rotfl2:
People who've never been, deserve our pity, they just don't understand ;)

[PISCESANGEL]

People who've never been, deserve our pity, they just don't understand ;)

I couldn't have said it better! :goodvibes

[wdwgirl03]

Wow, you're so close!! These next couple of days will fly by (hopefully)...then you'll be there! Hope you have a great trip. :thumbsup2

[PISCESANGEL]

Wow, you're so close!! These next couple of days will fly by (hopefully)...then you'll be there! Hope you have a great trip. :thumbsup2

Welcome! and...

Thank you!! :flower3:

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, let's see, only 2 days until...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/welcomesign.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/popcentury.jpg

And another from a previous trip:

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/JBdaddy.jpg


My kid's first day of school was last week - yes I feel bad for taking them out already, but it will still be partially educational right? ;)
Here are some pics from the first day:

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/firstdayofschool009.jpg
http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/firstdayofschool015.jpg
http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/firstdayofschool013.jpg


So I'm all done with laundry, the toiletries are packed, I have a pile of clothes to go into the suitcase, and a pile of snacks to go in a box to sit between the kids in the car. Still need to paint my nails, still need to change purses out, need to make sure the house is clean! (I can't leave the house dirty at all!!) :rotfl:

I finished up work today and have tomorrow off. It will be my 'finish everything up day' and then we will leave in the evening some time. My DH is working tomorrow so I will probably do a bit more driving on the way there than usual - but I will be so excited to get there I will be fine with that! :banana:

I'm thinking I will maybe even cook dinner tomorrow. I know that sounds a little crazy with all that will be going on to pack the car, etc., but I think eating out seven days in a row can get old really quick when you're used to eating home cooking! Not that I don't LOVE to eat in Disney World! :drinking1

I'm off to pack my bag now - thanks for reading (and sorry if I'm rambling...)! :goodvibes



:dance3: :dumbo: :tigger: :goofy: :stitch: :mickeyjum :dance3:

[2xcited2sleep]

Have a great time!!! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get back. I'm doing the rain dance for you (to prevent it not create it!) :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Have a great time!!! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get back. I'm doing the rain dance for you (to prevent it not create it!) :goodvibes

Thank you so much!! I think I saw 1 clear day on the forecast so maybe everybody's keep away rain dances are starting to work - keep it up!! ;)

[MomofCKJ]

Have a wonderfully, magical, DRY trip! I can't wait to hear ALL about it when you return!


Allyson

[PISCESANGEL]

Have a wonderfully, magical, DRY trip! I can't wait to hear ALL about it when you return!


Allyson


Thank you!! :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Well, we just finished dinner and picked up our rental car - we ended up with a 2009 Ford Fusion - it's pretty nice! :thumbsup2

DH is packing up the car and we have a couple of stops, then we are on our way! See you all when we get back!! :woohoo:


:dance3: :dance3: :dance3:

[2xcited2sleep]

Safe travels! Take good notes and tell us all about it when you get home!! :cool1: :woohoo: :yay: :banana:

[madmumof2]

Wow have a great time!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Have a great time! :goodvibes
I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you with the weather! :thumbsup2
Di x

[PISCESANGEL]

Hey everyone! I just wanted to let you all know that we are back and we had a wonderful trip!!! (Thanks to all of you for your good wishes and NO rain dances!) ;)


I will be downloading pics in a bit and I will get started with my first post later today!! :goodvibes

[MomofCKJ]

You are back already, oh my goodness! Welcome home! I hope it was wonderful, can't wait to hear all about it!

Allyson

[PISCESANGEL]

Safe travels! Take good notes and tell us all about it when you get home!! :cool1: :woohoo: :yay: :banana:

I took good notes - this one is going to be full of good pictures too! :thumbsup2

Wow have a great time!

Thank you - we did! :goodvibes

Have a great time! :goodvibes
I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you with the weather! :thumbsup2
Di x

Thank you - I think crossing your fingers helped! ;)

You are back already, oh my goodness! Welcome home! I hope it was wonderful, can't wait to hear all about it!

Allyson

Yes, it did seem to go rather quickly, didn't it? :sad1: But yes, it was wonderful, and I am working on the first post, just a bit longer... I have 500 pictures to go through!!

:hourglass

[kathleen27]

Welcome Back!!!

Glad you had great weather! :cool1:

Yeah :cheer2: For lots of pics!

Can't wait to hear all about it!

[PISCESANGEL]

So, where shall I start? Let’s just say, this trip didn’t begin the way I had planned. It was Friday night, we ate dinner, packed the car, and were practically giddy to go…all of us except DH. :sad1:

His day had started at 5am and he was feeling less than magical about driving all night. Soooo…we stayed home and slept, and then left on Saturday…

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/203.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/209.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/213.jpg

The kids were less than thrilled about us taking their pics...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/212.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/216.jpg

Which brings me to another unexpected hitch – No WAVE for me… :eek:
I called Disney dining Saturday morning to cancel the reservation knowing that we would never make it in time, and then asked how late we could still check in. They said that since the reservation was already paid for, we could come anytime. That was a relief!

So, it was a pretty uneventful drive – one traffic jam (before we were even out of Ohio no less…) but it got late before we knew it. We stopped at Cracker Barrel for dinner (yum!) and stopped a bit later in Gainesville for another gas fill-up. It was here that John (my DH) spotted an armadillo! I mean, who has ever seen an armadillo up close like this?!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/258.jpg



We didn’t arrive until about 6 in the morning - It was such a long drive!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/309.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/299.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/302.jpg

Of course our luck changed when we got there. We took a nap until around noon and then it was time for our first meal. We decided to head to Downtown Disney for some Wolfgang Puck Express.

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/264.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/266.jpg

When they say ‘express’ they mean it! We only waited maybe 5 minutes for our food. I don’t remember the exact names but here are our entrees:

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/267.jpg
John's Asian BBQ ribs - he said this was ok, but he didn't care for the sauce they used much.


http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/269.jpg
Angie's Pot Roast - she said this was tender and she liked it, but she liked mine better!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/270.jpg
My Rotisserie Chicken and Mashed Potatoes - so good!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/268.jpg
Jonathan's Mac N Cheese - he really loved this!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/271.jpg

For dessert, Angie and I both had Carrot Cake, and my son had a brownie, John had a cookie. The Carrot Cake was very moist and delicious - I'm not sure about the brownie but I know my DS didn't like it much and that's saying something for him. :rotfl:

Next: We explore the hotel grounds a bit, and go swimming!

[PISCESANGEL]

Welcome Back!!!

Glad you had great weather! :cool1:

Yeah :cheer2: For lots of pics!

Can't wait to hear all about it!

Thank you for the welcome!! It feels good to be home, if only to sleep in my own bed again... I'm definitely suffering from some post-Disney blues though! :goodvibes

It took a while to get the pictures to download, but more will be coming soon! ;)

[MomofCKJ]

Oh I am sorry you missed out on the Wave (for selfish reasons, I wanted to see you review!) but you know, that means you need to book another trip and go back right? I think that's the way it works!

You are a good wife to let him sleep and go the next day. I think I would have taken the first shift and then hopped him up on Mountain Dew to stay awake but I think you did the better, more loving choice!

Off to a great start, lunch looks yummy and your first pick of DTD looks pretty empty!

Allyson

[2xcited2sleep]

Yippee the trip reporting has started!! Great first installment.

[coconutsunshine]

Love the report so far... I can't wait for more. Great Pics!!

Oh about the armadillo, we actually saw one last year at Disney!! It was at one of the waterparks, i want to say Blizzard Beach. It was to the side of the stairs as we were walking up for the raft ride, it was seriously not even 2 feet from us. I didn't even know what it was:rotfl: DH had to tell me. We don't have armadillo's where we live!!!

Looking forward to more!!:goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Oh I am sorry you missed out on the Wave (for selfish reasons, I wanted to see you review!) but you know, that means you need to book another trip and go back right? I think that's the way it works!

You are a good wife to let him sleep and go the next day. I think I would have taken the first shift and then hopped him up on Mountain Dew to stay awake but I think you did the better, more loving choice!

Off to a great start, lunch looks yummy and your first pick of DTD looks pretty empty!

Allyson

Yes, I am very sorry I missed the Wave as well - which definitely means a trip back!

And I can't take too much credit for being a good wife and letting hubby sleep - I did it for selfish reasons too because I knew he would be cranky if not, and I just don't deal well with cranky x3 if you know what I mean! :lmao:

DTD was very empty, as were the parks for the most part - it was nice!

Yippee the trip reporting has started!! Great first installment.

Thank you - there is lots more to come!! ;)

Love the report so far... I can't wait for more. Great Pics!!

Oh about the armadillo, we actually saw one last year at Disney!! It was at one of the waterparks, i want to say Blizzard Beach. It was to the side of the stairs as we were walking up for the raft ride, it was seriously not even 2 feet from us. I didn't even know what it was:rotfl: DH had to tell me. We don't have armadillo's where we live!!!

Looking forward to more!!:goodvibes

Thank you and welcome! I love your name by the way, coconuts and sunshine are two of my favorite things! :goodvibes

And I definitely haven't ever seen an armadillo before - it was so close!


Next installment coming soon!:banana:

[PISCESANGEL]

We looked around in Downtown Disney for about 15 minutes and everybody decided that going swimming was sounding like a good idea. It was rather humid and the sky was clear so it was time to head back to the hotel.

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/276.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/273.jpg


http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/281.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/291.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/289.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/294.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/295.jpg


When we returned to our room I noticed a paper laying on the table talking about the bounceback offer for free dining for next year. Rather than keep you in suspense, we did not sign up again. :sad2: DH looked at me like I was absolutely crazy when I showed him the paper. He basically said 'woman, give it a rest' with his eyes.:lmao:

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/297.jpg


And here is our set up - notice the little tip envelopes I printed for Mousekeeping off of the Mouse for Less website - they were adorable and I used a different one each day. Our Mousekeeper's name was Norma and she took excellent care of us all week. I think we ended up with six towel animals...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/296.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/039.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/391.jpg

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/036.jpg

We ended up at the Computer Pool as it was closest to our room. We were in the 80's section and I can't say we have ever had a better room than this one! We were only 2 doors from the center so we were right by the ice machine and the stairs that led down to the pool. We were also very close to the parking lot this time. Location certainly does make a difference!

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn134/cwirth6768/293.jpg

So we went swimming for a bit and then it was time to get ready for dinner - tonight it was time for Ohana! :lovestruc

[wdwgirl03]

Great start! Those towel animals are really cute.

[PISCESANGEL]

Great start! Those towel animals are really cute.


Thank you! :goodvibes

I really enjoyed the towel animals waiting for us each day. :flower3:

[Grace and Mickey]

Welcome home::MickeyMo Thanks for the pictures of POPS,we are staying here in Sept 2009. Howong did it take to drive fromOhio( we live in Ohio too). Looking for the reading more. if Wolfgang on the dining plan?

[PISCESANGEL]

Welcome home::MickeyMo Thanks for the pictures of POPS,we are staying here in Sept 2009. Howong did it take to drive fromOhio( we live in Ohio too). Looking for the reading more. if Wolfgang on the dining plan?

Thank you for the Welcome Home!

We really like staying at POP as I'm sure you probably will as well. It has a really fun atmosphere! :banana:

It usually takes about 16 hours to drive to WDW from the Dayton, Ohio area, but it took us an excessive amount of time on the way down because we just seemed to make a lot of stops. It only took about 16 hours on the way home and we were even in a half hour traffic jam in Cincinnati.

And yes Wolfgang Puck is on the Dining Plan - it is one CS credit for the Express, which is what we had, or 1 TS for each meal in the dining room to the right of the Express. Hope that helps!

;)

[Step]

Looks like your trip had a great start! Sorry to hear you didn't book the bounce back. I decided to go for it and I'll be returning at the start of food and wine fest next year. Can't wait to read more of your report!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Welcome back!!!!
Sounds like you had a great time, love the pictures so far!
Especially the photos of the kids in the car - so NOT happy faces!
16 hour drive!!!!!:eek: :eek: :eek: Wow! I thought we were bad with an 8 hour plane trip!
Love the mousekeeping envelopes - will need to do some before we go. Being from the UK and inexperienced in the morass that is tipping in the US - what is the daily rate approx for tipping Mousekeeping - don't want to offend anyone?

Di x

[irky416]

I love your towel animals!

[PISCESANGEL]

Looks like your trip had a great start! Sorry to hear you didn't book the bounce back. I decided to go for it and I'll be returning at the start of food and wine fest next year. Can't wait to read more of your report!

Oh, I'm so jealous that you got to book the bounce back offer! More is coming soon! :goodvibes

Welcome back!!!!
Sounds like you had a great time, love the pictures so far!
Especially the photos of the kids in the car - so NOT happy faces!
16 hour drive!!!!!:eek: :eek: :eek: Wow! I thought we were bad with an 8 hour plane trip!
Love the mousekeeping envelopes - will need to do some before we go. Being from the UK and inexperienced in the morass that is tipping in the US - what is the daily rate approx for tipping Mousekeeping - don't want to offend anyone?

Di x

Yes, 16 hours felt like forever! No offense on wondering about tips - we generally tipped anywhere from $2 - $5 US dollars depending on whatever loose bills we had at the end of the evening.


I love your towel animals!

They made me super happy! :lovestruc


Thank you all for the warm welcome and nice comments - I will be back soon!

[kathleen27]

Sorry you missed the Wave. :sad2:
But A good idea to be well rested.

I have never seen an armadillo. Cool!

Thanks for the Pop pictures!
I am excited to stay there!!!

Cute towel animals. :goodvibes

[PISCESANGEL]

Sorry you missed the Wave. :sad2:
But A good idea to be well rested.

I have never seen an armadillo. Cool!

Thanks for the Pop pictures!
I am excited to stay there!!!

Cute towel animals. :goodvibes

We will definitely have to do the Wave on a future trip - but it's always good to start out rested of course. ;)

I had never seen an armadillo either - my DH was like 'look out your window' to my DD and literally, it was right on the ground beside our car - it was cool!

POP is so much fun - I hope you like it too!

[PISCESANGEL]

moved - please see message below

[PISCESANGEL]

Okay all of you loyal readers! I have moved my TR over to the TR board because for some reason I was still under PTR.... long story short, I would be most grateful if you would follow the link in my signature and post your comments there! Thank you!!