I must be completely insane or not! June/July 2009 TR Updated Nov. 10 [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

mdsouth

04-25-2009, 11:30 AM

Cast:
mdsouth (myself, one who the thought of just planning makes me weak in the knees)
DH – (a cheapskate at times – always looking for the best deal, one who loves his sleep and can’t figure out why anyone sane would want to get up early on their vacation)
DS (12) – Rand McNally (Our own home version of GPS – has most of the US atlas memorized and loves to give people directions)
DD (6) – Princess in the making (quite the Drama Queen at times and so sweet the rest of the time)

Chapter 1 (page 4) - Trip Report Begins
Chapter 2 (page 4) - Arrival at CSR
Chapter 3 (page 5) - Walking Right Down the Middle of Main Street
Chapter 4 (page 6) - To Infinity and Beyond!
Chapter 5 (page 6) - Blasting off in Tomorrowland!
Chapter 6 (page 6) - Toontown
Chapter 7 (page 6) - Coronado Springs Resort (CSR)
Chapter 8 (page 7) - More CSR
Chapter 9 (page 8) - MK Day 2
Chapter 10 (page 9) - Family Time at MK
Chapt 10 continued (page 9) - More Family Time at MK, Monorail, Chef Mickey's and DtD
Chapter 11 (page 10) Epcot and Le Cellier
Chapter 12 (page 10) Le Cellier Review

A BIT OF BACKGROUND
My DH has been to WDW twice (both times with me). His first trip was as an adult with me, when we were newly marriage, and DINKS (Double Income No Kids). He liked it okay but did not fall in love with the place like I had hoped. This was probably due to my role as Commanding General as we toured the parks COMMANDO style! He likes to remind me that when he first stepped into the Magic Kingdom, he wanted to just walk slowly and look around Main Street but instead, I grabbed him by the hand and told him we had to rush over to Splash Mountain before the crowds got there and my Dramamine wore off!

Needless, to say, I wish that I had taken into consideration his nature, and how he likes to take things slowly, and deliberately. Then maybe he would have found the magic and been more willing to go on additional adventures to the world with me.

Our First Family Trip with Kids
Somehow, I talked my DH into taking our first family trip with kids in May 2005. My son was 8 at the time and just beginning to love roller coasters. My DD was 2 1/2 years old and a very typical toddler. She was so sweet at times, but liked her routines and would tire easily.
We stayed at CBR. It was very tropical. We loved the little beach and the quiet pool. Unfortunately, taking a cranky toddler on a trip only reinforced the idea that WDW was overwhelming and not what my DH thinks a vacation should be.

Our Initial Plans for Summer 2009 Trip

I have been working at getting us back to Disney since we arrived back from our trip in 2005. My DH said, we'll go back in four years or so when the kids are older. It has been a long, slow wait! My only Disney fix has been the DISboards. :happytv: We have been on two extended family vacations to Myrtle Beach, SC since then. These trips were not exactly ideal relaxing vacations either.:headache: My DH is a man of his word, so now is the time for us to go back to WDW this year. :dance3::dance3::dance3:

I booked the Buy 4/Get 3 Promo deal back on November 8, 2008 for our June trip. I originally had us booked for week of June 21-28. I have had CSR booked since the first week of November. I was feeling really good since I got a great deal, and even finalized my ADRs. I got all the ones I really wanted including (Le Cellier)! :banana::yay:

A DISplanner's Worst Nightmare!
My DH came home a few weeks ago and told me that his company changed the dates for their plant shutdown! I couldn't believe it! The last 13 years the company has closed the plant for the same week every single year. The ONE and Only time I have WDW booked and ADRs finalized, they up and change the week to the week prior to and immediately following 4th of July! :mad: Holey Cow! [/FONT]

I am a teacher, so the summer or Spring Break are really the only times we can go. Plus, my DH has to take off during plant shutdown, so if we went another time, he would have to take days off without pay or use his few precious left-over paid days off. He gets a very limited amount of days off for the entire year (12 - 7 after the mandatory shutdown days). These days are his only ones for the year to use. He tries to keep as many as possible in reserve to use for sick days (we take turns taking off for sick kids), and other things.

Anyway, I ended up rescheduling our arrival date for Sunday, June 28 and we will leave July 5th. :3dglasses

New, dates - arrive Saturday, June 27 and leaving on July 4th.

mdsouth

04-25-2009, 09:02 PM

This time around we are going to try CSR for the first time. We wanted to try a new resort for the fun of it. My son is studying Spanish in junior high and our family loves to eat at Mexican places, so I thought CSR might be a good fit for our family.

Sacha_L

04-25-2009, 11:56 PM

popcorn::hey I found you! We went to Disney Land over the 4th of July 2 years ago! It was pretty busy but with a good plan we still were able to do lots and had a great time :yay:

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 08:46 AM

Sacha_L,
Thanks for looking me up! :thumbsup2

I am happy to hear that you went over the fourth and came out alive!

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 08:47 AM

My ticker is incomplete and not working. I know it had the slider before. I must be doing something wrong!:rolleyes1

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 11:32 AM

I am checking to see if my new countdown calendar is working.

Sacha_L

04-26-2009, 03:42 PM

I saw you mentioned ADR's...I so wish I could book mine already! :lmao: What do you have so far?

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 07:15 PM

Take a look at my ADRs and let me know what you think.

:surfweb:

Friday - Arrival - CS food OOP since our DDplan will not start until Saturday.

Saturday - Lunch - CS
CS dinner at Pepper Market at CSR (I am looking forward to trying out the steak for just a CS credit)

Sunday - not sure yet
Monday - Lunch - CS
Dinner - TS - O'Hanas

Tuesday - Lunch -CS
Dinner - TS - 1900 Park Faire (Grand Floridian)

Wednesday - Lunch - TS Princess Akersaus (Norway) I am thinking about dropping this one.
Dinner - TS San Angel (Mexico)

Thursday - Lunch - TS 50's Prime Time Another one I am thinking of dropping.
Dinner - CS

Friday - Lunch - 2TS Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)
Dinner - TS Chef Mickey's

Saturday - Lunch - CS
Dinner - TS Le Cellier

I have a total count of 9 TS and I will only have 7 TS with the dining plan. So, I need to drop two. I really do not want to may OOP for anything.

I booked Princess Akersaus and then on a whim I tried to get CRT. I couldn't believe I got it! My DD6 is into princesses somewhat, so I know that I want at least one meal with the princesses. I have read good things about the Grand Floridian Princess meal with the Stepsisters so that is why I booked it too. I am just not sure.

San Angel is for my DH. He is being dragged on this trip somewhat, he really doesn't see the need to go (Unbelievable, I know!):scared1: We went to San Angel way back in 1993 on his first trip to WDW (just him and I). We could not get in back in 2005, and that is the only restaurant he has mentioned that he would like to go to on this trip. So, I will keep it.

Sacha_L

04-26-2009, 08:36 PM

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 08:49 PM

I am so jealous of your princess TS meals :sad1:there is noooooo wayyyyy I'd get my DH and boys to one :rolleyes: oh well....make sure and post lots of pics for me! What did you guys like about the San Angel resturant? we live in the middle of New Mexico so I was going to skip that one ;) The rest look good to me! I am planning heavy on the character meals for the boys of course! :rotfl:

My DH and I enjoyed the nighttime atmosphere while inside. We thought it was relaxing and neat at the same time. We both like Mexican food so that was a big plus too. He really enjoyed his dinner there. Of course, he can't remember what he ate and neither do I so we won't know what to order.:rotfl:

I am a bit worried about what my DD will eat. :scared:She is an extremely picky eater. Right now, all she wants to eat is mac and cheese, grilled cheese, cheesburgers, and peanut butter. She does like tortilla chips so, I guess we will get an order of those! She also will only drink white milk or water. Absolutely nothing else! I wish I could get her to drink some juice.

mdsouth

04-26-2009, 08:52 PM

I just became a DIS Veteran. :cool1: I was surprised to see all my previous posts (at least those in this thread) changed my status to DIS Veteran too.:confused3

I just assumed that the others would remain as Mouseketeer.

DisneyTinkerbell

04-26-2009, 08:54 PM

Any fellow early July planners? :confused3

I am really in the need for a buddy or too to plan with and agonize over how crowded it will be! :scared1:

I read all the Spring Break crowd threads and know that the Buy 4/Get 3 promo has been a great success, so that makes me even more anxious!

I originally had us booked for week of June 21-28. I have had CSR booked since the first week of November. I was feeling really good since I got a great deal, and even finalized my ADRs. I got all the ones I really wanted including (Le Cellier)! :banana:

Then my DH came home a few weeks ago and told me that his company changed the dates for their plant shutdown! I couldn't believe it! The last 13 years the company has closed the plant for the same week every single year. The ONE and Only time I have WDW booked and ADRs finalized, they up and change the week to the week prior to and immediately following 4th of July! :mad: Holey Cow!

I am a teacher, so the summer or Spring Break are really the only times we can go. Plus, my DH has to take off during plant shutdown, so if we went another time, he would have to take days off without pay or use his few precious left-over paid days off. He gets a very limited amount of days off for the entire year (12 - 7 after the mandatory shutdown days). These days are his only ones for the year to use. He tries to keep as many as possible in reserve to use for sick days (we take turns taking off for sick kids), and other things.

Anyway, I ended up rescheduling our arrival date for Sunday, June 28 and we will leave July 5th.

I will post more later - along with a picture or two from our last trip.

We are planning to go the week of July 15 - 21. Yes, I am afraid it will be pretty busy, but you just have to relax and enjoy the time that you are there. I have already got all of my ADRs and had no problems with any times or dates. My main concern is how hot and humid it will probably be. We are used to going around the end of May. All I can really say is, plan, plan, plan. Allow for long lines and lots of crowds.

mdsouth

04-27-2009, 08:52 AM

We are planning to go the week of July 15 - 21. Yes, I am afraid it will be pretty busy, but you just have to relax and enjoy the time that you are there. I have already got all of my ADRs and had no problems with any times or dates. My main concern is how hot and humid it will probably be. We are used to going around the end of May. All I can really say is, plan, plan, plan. Allow for long lines and lots of crowds.

Welcome to my PTR DisneyTinkerbell!

Thanks for the reassurance about the fourth of July crowds.:thumbsup2

mdsouth

04-27-2009, 08:59 AM

I decided to add background information and make my PTR more of a story format with general comments thrown in. So, if you thought you were having a small memory loss or thought you might be now in a Disboard haze, you are not! :rotfl2:

You did not imagine my first post being somewhat boring. This is the NEW and IMPROVED PTR report!

[SIZE="4"]I hope you like it and will stick with me as my own sanity goes from mildly off the charts to CRAZILY INSANE as my Trip countdown drops lower and lower!!:rotfl::rotfl: Speaking of insane. I am having halluations! My countdown tag in my first post should have been 63 days and today's posts should have 62 days. Why does all my posts have the same countdown days no matter what day I posted? Help, I am crazier than I thought!

jmskinner

04-27-2009, 10:21 PM

mdsouth

04-27-2009, 11:55 PM

I saw your post on Rottiemom's PTR and thought I would check yours out. My first trip was July 4th in 2006 and I got hooked. Couldn't figure out when I would ever get back and we ended up getting moved to Tampa,FL, just an hour away.

If I can handle my very first trip on a July 4th and still fall in love, I know you will be able to enjoy.

I appreciate your comments. :yay::yay: I am happy to hear you managed to get over the crowds and still fall in love with WDW. So when are you going back?

mdsouth

04-27-2009, 11:57 PM

I plan on trying yet again to post photos tomorrow. I have to get off now to make sure my oldest is preparing for bed. My littlest is already in bed, but my oldest was staying up later.

I am also mulling over something right now, that I will need some feedback on, so stay tuned everyone!

Ta Ta for now

jmskinner

04-28-2009, 08:27 AM

I try to go at least once a month for a daytrip. I'd go every weekend if I could. We do have two resort stays, one in July with my BFF from TX and another Labor Day Weekend for the free dining.

Oh, and I forgot to mention, you were thinking about cancelling 50's Primetime. Have you ever eaten there? That is one of our favorites.

As far as how did we survive July 4th and still fall in love, I think it was just the magic. We went commando as you mentioned yourself doing. Got back home and our rears didn't leave the couch until bedtime and found the couch again the next day and still didn't move.:laughing:

Well, I need to get the kiddo to school.

mdsouth

04-28-2009, 11:57 PM

I looks like I could move up our vacation start time up a day or two. This would have us leaving either on July 3 or 4 instead of the 5th. I wonder if this would make a difference in the crowds?

I haven't checked UG lately, but previously, the dates were ranked the same I think. Anyone care to share his or her thoughts on this matter?

I plan on checking into it tomorrow to see if I can change the dates and still get the promo deal.

mdsouth

05-01-2009, 08:45 AM

I have been calling WDW the past few days trying to change my dates and keep the Buy 4 Get 3 Free rate. I wanted to arrive a few days earlier and leave a few days earlier to avoid some of the local crowd onslaught over the 4th of July weekend.:scared1:

I was only able to change it one day, so now we will arrive on Saturday, June 28 and check out on July 4th itself. I am not sure :confused3 if I did myself any good though. I am sure Friday is going to be just as bad as the Fourth.

I am only going to lose one of my ADRs, and now I can try to get others set up earlier in the week.

So, now I have to make arrangements for where we will be staying the evening of the Fourth. I definitely need to nail this down, as I know hotels will be booked everywhere.:eek:

mdsouth

05-07-2009, 12:11 AM

Woo Hoo!

I actually added an additional night to our reservation. So, now we will arrive on Friday, June 27th. CSR and the values were all booked, so we will be staying one night at POR and then move over to CSR on Saturday, June 28 for the remainder of our trip.

I will probably keep checking on switching to a value to save a little money.

mdsouth

05-12-2009, 08:53 AM

We will be arriving on Friday, June 26! We couldn't pass up the $58.00 airfare price! :cool1::cool1:

So, now we will arrive on Friday, June 26 at 9:00 AM!!

We will have a room only reservation at CSR, then switch to our package deal the next day. I am hoping that we can pick up the ticket portion of our package a day early. Otherwise, we will we down there a full day early with no park tickets.

Has anyone be allowed to pick up their park tickets a day early?

mdsouth

05-21-2009, 08:45 AM

Where has the time gone! I have been plotting and planning since our last trip in 2005. COLOR="DarkOrange"]Seriously planning for close to two years for this trip. :rolleyes: Now, I have 38 days left to go!:cool1::cool1::cool1:[/COLOR]

It has been a crazy ride and most of it done in secrecy. :surfweb:The very first and last site I check each day is the Dis. :surfweb:

At first I spent the most time on the Budget Board, looking for ways to save money for another Disney trip.:flower3:

Next, I branched out to the Disney for Families board.:grouphug:

I would find myself reading Trip Reports just to get my "Fix". popcorn::

Of course the itch got stronger and I ventured onto the Resort board along with the Codes and Rates board. :cool2:

I checked my email daily for a Pin code - but nada!:confused:

Finally, when the Buy 4 Get 3 promo started, I just couldn't resist! :dance3:It was time! I booked it during the first week it was available in November 2008. :banana: This was done in complete secrecy - I didn't even tell my DH. My DH was still not on board with our making a trip in 2009. In 2005, he told me we could go back in four to five years. I keep this in mind, and reserved the room and package knowing that I could remind him of this.:scared:

Of course, once the package was booked, I had to visit the Disney restaurants and Restaurant Review boards!

You can now find me on the Theme Parks and Strategies board.:thumbsup2

mdsouth

05-30-2009, 08:52 AM

Fiesta time!

I had been planning for several months on how I was going to reveal our summer trip to the kids. The last time we went was four years ago. For that trip, I created a really cute scavenger hunt complete with small clues and gifts that lead up to the final clue that revealed our trip plans. The kids had a blast running around inside and outside the house looking for clues.

So, I really wanted to surprise them with the trip again this time as well. I like surprising them about a month out so that they have the chance to participate in some of the planning. For me and my DS, a large part of a big family trip is the anticipation and being able to share our plans with others. Many of my kids' classmates have been sharing their plans for the summer, so I wanted my kids to be able to share theirs as well.

With the new promotion and new commercials showing, I decided to tie my surprise announcement in with the new promotion theme. I bought a big round hat box and a helium mylar balloon. Then I created a special gold invitation for the kids. I tied the invitation to the balloon. I put the balloon inside the box along with two autographed photographs of my kids and Goofy. The photos were signed by Goofy saying "Looking forward to seeing you again this June!". I just happen to be acquainted with a personal friend of Goofy. ;) That person gave my photographs to Goofy to sign for me. :cool1:

I also enclosed:
the customized WDW maps
vacation information
some photographs of CSR, our resort (the pool and playground)
fiesta napkins, salsa bowls, salsa and a bag of tortilla chips.

On the top of the box, I had a cute poster that said, "Fiesta Time!"

My DH had the video camera working and I called the kids over to open a present for the two of them. They were excited since the present itself was unexpected. They pulled the lid off the box, and the balloon rose up (not nearly as high and nice as I wanted but it worked okay).

They checked out the stuff inside and were excited. I pulled out four sombros for each of us. We put them on and danced around. My DD(six years old) put the sombro on the floor and did a little Mexican Hat dance around it. :dance3::dance3: It was lots of fun! I am so glad that I surprised them with the trip.

We have had lots of fun already over the past week talking about what we are looking forward to doing on our trip. :yay:

My DD started a countdown on our family calendar. She even drew an airplane and Mickey Mouse on the calendar. It is so cute. :love:I will definitely have to keep the page for a scrapbook memory!

mdsouth

05-30-2009, 07:53 PM

Thanks to Planning fanatic mom I now have a link to my pre-trip report in my signature.

Now, I just have to load up some photographs to add to this pre-trip report.

Planning fanatic mom

05-31-2009, 08:34 AM

mdsouth

05-31-2009, 09:11 AM

You are very welcome! Now I have found your PTR and Lovin it!

I love the way you surprised your children. EXCELLENT!! I admit I teared up a little.:goodvibes

Now we have to get your pics up and running.

I've never read a trip report about someone who stayed at CSR. I will interested to hear what you have to say about it. It is a resort that I have never even considered.

I am sure you will agree, the best part of a WDW trip is experiencing it with your family and making special family memories! :hug:

My DH is tagging along grudingly. I have more than once mentioned that I could take the kids on my own or else take someone else along in his place. I have a friend, another teacher who would have the time available, who would loves WDW. She is even a DVC owner. We even have a wonderful neighbor who has been like a special aunt to our kids. She loves Disney too, and would love to go again with us. She is retired so she wouldn't have to take off work to go. But my DH (bless his sole) said, no. He wants to enjoy watching our kids experience Disney again. So, he says, he is taking on Disney and going for them and me. :lovestruc

He has said that he was more than ready to get home from our last trip to WDW back in 2005 and it was only for five nights. :eek:This time we will be at WDW for eight nights plus one night at Indy before we fly out.
I am trying to schedule lots of meat and potato meals for him to help him enjoy the experience. I also will give him the option of sleeping in when he wants too.

Planning fanatic mom

05-31-2009, 09:17 AM

I do agree. It is the time spent together and the memories that makes everything worth while.

It seems to me that you have a great DH. You may convert him yet. :lmao:

My DH loves Disney and is very excited about our trip. He has been there more than me.

Can't wait to hear more about your plans.

NLD

06-01-2009, 04:29 PM

mdsouth

06-01-2009, 07:00 PM

Hi mdsouth,

Had to come over and check out your PTR after you commented on mine. How cute how you surprised your kids!

Saw that you are going to CSR, that was the other resort we were strongly considering--love the theming of it!

NLD, thanks for checking out my PTR.

I was debating between POR, POFQ and CSR. We stayed at CBR on our previous trip, so we wanted to try a new one. The deluxes are not in our price range, so I had to decide between the remaining three mods. :confused3

POR and POFQ both have the boat to DTD. :thumbsup2
I think both POR and POFQ look beautiful. I also think our family would have enjoyed taking the boat to DTD
I think it would be nice to stay in a resort that is more compact in size so POFQ was a frontrunner.

CSR is in the process of renovating rooms. My family, especially my DS would love to visit Mexico sometime. So, CSR would be like a virtual Mexican trip for us. :rotfl:
Another swaying decision for me is that CSR has queen beds in the room instead of double beds. :cloud9:

mdsouth

06-02-2009, 05:15 PM

As with many of us, I have found myself rethinking some of my dining plans, and have modified my ADR plans from what I have previously posted on page one. So, now my dining plans look like this:

Friday, June 26 - Arrival
CS food OOP since our DDplan will not start until Saturday.

Saturday, June 27
Lunch - CS
Dinner at Pepper Market at CSR (I am looking forward to trying out the steak for just a CS credit)

Sunday, June 28 - not sure yet

Monday, June 29
Lunch - CS
Dinner - TS - O'Hanas

Tuesday, June 20
Lunch -CS
Dinner - TS - 1900 Park Faire (Grand Floridian)

Wednesday, July 1
Lunch -
Dinner - TS San Angel (Mexico)

Thursday, July 2
Lunch - TS 50's Prime Time - one I am thinking of dropping
Dinner - CS

Friday, July 3
Lunch - 2TS Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)
Dinner - TS Chef Mickey's

Saturday, July 4
Lunch - TS Le Cellier

Planning fanatic mom

06-02-2009, 05:57 PM

mdsouth

06-10-2009, 05:09 PM

We've eaten at 50's Prime Time cafe a couple of times. We like the food and the fun atmosphere. My DH really plays up to the CMs.

The others you have I haven't tried yet. We are doing Chef Mickey's and O'Hanas in 2 weeks.

Good luck with your changes.

Well, we are getting close and I am still not totally happy with my ADRs. Here is the schedule so far...

Friday - Arrival - CS food OOP since our DDplan will not start until Saturday.

Saturday - MK most likely
Lunch - CS
CS dinner at Pepper Market at CSR (I am looking forward to trying out the steak for just a CS credit)

Sunday - (Epcot)
Lunch - Le Cellier :woohoo:
Dinner - San Angel Inn

Monday - (MK ??)
Lunch - CS
Dinner - TS - O'Hanas

Tuesday - (AK or DS)
Lunch -CS
Dinner - TS - 1900 Park Faire (Grand Floridian)

Wednesday - (Epcot)
Lunch - CS
Dinner - TS San Angel (Mexico) (this one is a back-up. My DH wants to go here and last time we didn't make our reservations for some reason. So, I made two reservations this year. If we eat here on Sunday, than I will cancel this one and just have CS dinner.

Thursday - DS
Lunch - TS 50's Prime Time Another one I am thinking of dropping.
Dinner - TS - Grand Floridian Cafe

Friday - MK
Lunch - 2TS Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)
Dinner - TS Chef Mickey's

Saturday - Epcot
Lunch - Le Cellier

Leave for airport and home:sad1:

mdsouth

06-14-2009, 07:06 PM

When I booked CSR back in early November, I requested Cabanas. The rooms in the Cabanas are all newly renovated which is a huge factor for us! Having queen beds instead of double for eight nights is a major plus. They are also very pretty. I also like the fact they are only two stories. We stayed at CBR last time and though we found it beautiful we want to try something different this time.

The Casitas look like my kids idea of Mexico, which they think would be fun to visit. The bus stop at the Casitas is the first to be picked up and first to be dropped off in the evening. Downside, is that not all the buildings are renovated and might have to rely on elevators or hike it up three or four flights of stairs each night.

Oh, what to do! Of course, even if I do finally decide and chose one, it is not guaranteed! :laughing: So, all this stress about which to pick might be for nothing.

I can't believe this trip is so close to being a reality. Only twelve days to go! :banana:I can check-in online this Tuesday! WOO HOO!:cool1:

mdsouth

06-16-2009, 05:44 PM

Unbelievable! Our trip is only 10 days away!

Today was a great day! The online ADR system was up and running and I was able to reschedule a few of my ADRs and book a new one that I have been wanting to get.

Now, I am also going to go ahead and check-in online. :surfweb: I figure that it will probably reduce my wait time in the lobby check-in since we will be arriving on Magical Express. If there is a problem with the process or room requests, than I can handle it there-just as I would anyway, so really it should be a win-win situation.

After much agonizing over it, I requested a renovated room, preferrably in Casitas 4 or 5, ground floor.

I decided I might as well list all my wishes. It would be fantastic to get a corner room or upgrade to a waterview. But I will be happy with just a renovated room!

Echo queen

06-18-2009, 11:27 PM

Ok, I'm a offical follower of your report:thumbsup2

mdsouth

06-20-2009, 10:07 AM

Ok, I'm a offical follower of your report:thumbsup2

Wow! I can't believe I have an audience with the Queen! Tee Hee!
It really is nice to know that I am not just taking to myself here on the boards.

So, tell me Echo Queen, do you have a current trip you are planning or are you just dreaming and living through the trips of others (like I have done for so many, many years)?

mdsouth

06-20-2009, 10:17 AM

Right before I checked in on-line, I called CRO and put down my requests for a room in Casitas 4 or 5 or the Cabanas.

I was thinking that we might like the Casitas this trip since they look more like what my family thinks Mexico might be like. However, ever since, I have been seconding, and so on guessing myself.

The main thing we want is a renovated room!:love::love:
So, we would have a better chance of getting one if I requested Cabanas. And I happened to see some new pictures on the CSR resort photos thread that really looked great of the Cabanas. Actually, there photos there made all three sections look fantastic. :thumbsup2

The Cabanas looked relaxing and would only be two stories, so less crowded possibly? :confused3

However, I do love the look and idea of the Casitas but really don't want to have to hike it up several flights of stairs each and every night or rely on the elevators. :confused:

As Pooh would say, "Oh bother!" And then the Eeyore in me, is telling me that no matter what I request, I will most likely not get what I want anyway -- that is just how it tends to work out with me. So, I should just not focus on it and move on!:rolleyes:

mdsouth

06-20-2009, 10:33 AM

The amount of money for stroller rental is outrageous! I am still debating what to do and we leave in six days!

We are flying so it will cost us extra to take a stroller with us. I have an old umbrella stroller we might take for my 6 year old. She is just 46 pounds. However, she is extremely tall for her age so when she sits her kneew are really up high. Right now, I am thinking that she might be fine in a few of the parks without a stroller. For the other days, we just might have to bite the bullet and pay the WDW fees.

Much earlier in the planning, I checked out the free stroller shares threads. But no luck, my week was already taken.

Does anyone know if you can buy umbrella strollers on property? Say DtD? What about the cost? I thought it might be feasible to just wait and buy an umbrella stroller there instead of paying to bring it down on the plane with us. Then at the end of the trip, we would either have to pay to ship it home or perhaps give it to a family just starting their trip.

We will not have a rental car and I do not want to have to go offsite in a taxi to buy one.

Echo queen

06-20-2009, 05:24 PM

:)[QUOTE=mdsouth;32354494]Wow! I can't believe I have an audience with the Queen! Tee Hee!
It really is nice to know that I am not just taking to myself here on the boards.

So, tell me Echo Queen, do you have a current trip you are planning or are you just dreaming and living through the trips of others (like I have done for so many, many years)?[/QUOTE

Why yes, I am in the early stages of planning another Christmas trip:santa: I finally got the green light from my DH:headache: last weekend, we brought it to a family vote my boys are 14 and 10 they were all for it:cool1::cool1:. My DH thinks it's too soon because we have been going every year for 5yrs and we were there last Christmas, I don't see what his problem with it is:rotfl2:

2008 Last Christmas was our first on site(we have a time share so we usually use it) stay, we were at CR (my dream resort) and were upgraded to a bay lake tower view from the wing. We were on the deluxe dinning with ADR's booked to the max $$$$ was not an issue wonderful trip.

2009 CSR is my first choice and $$$ is an issue. It was not in our plan to go back to WDW this year. Spring break Branson MO we drove, July Las Vegas flying and labor day IL flying home town. So I really had to work it :worship:with DH to get him to go for this. Oh let me tell you up front I LIKE VACATIONS, you never would have guessed right:rotfl2:

Our past trips have been 9 to 12 days because we fly I like to stay as long as possible. This trip will be 5 nights at CSR and then back home. Because I had 18 days off over Christmas last year I did not think there was a chance I could get off this year, but to my surprise no one took the week after Christmas so here I am working with what's left over:woohoo: Did I mention that I love disney:cheer2:who would not want to go the happiest place on earth.:)

My friends and coworkers think I'm crazy (I am not going to mention this trip sshhh) for going so much which is why we tryed Branson and LasVegas this year. Branson was fun my parents met us there and we all had a good time but I have no desire what-so-ever to go back, that is the sentament of everyone. I am sure we will have a great visit in(our first time there) Vegas but it is not disney.pirate:

I love reading trip reports especially about places I would like to go.:surfweb:

I'm not a big talker:rotfl2: Chat soon

mdsouth

06-20-2009, 06:52 PM

I would love to travel more, if only my budget and hubby would go for it!
However do you convince your hubby to go for the trips?

It would be so much fun to go around Christmas. The week after Christmas is a good time to get away. I have traveled before during this week (visiting family, etc). It is nice to have Christmas at home and then get up and leave the next day. That way, you can enjoy the build-up towards the holiday, and the actual holiday itself without lugging around presents and such.

From the pictures that I have seen, the holiday lights on the castle are absolutely breathtaking! I would love to see it in person!

Staying at CR would be so much fun! We ate at Chef Mickey's last year, and wandered around a bit. My DS still remembers it, four years later and said that it would be cool to stay there with the monorail running through it! I agree! It would be so nice to just hop on the monorail to get to MK and Epcot.

mdsouth

06-20-2009, 07:54 PM

Since we are on the basic dining plan we will have 7 TS credits to use. I currently have 10 TS credits planned.

I would love to keep them all, but we are already splurging a bit to get the dining plan and my DH will not be too pleased to have to pay out of pocket.

I dropped 50's Prime Time. I am sure we would have enjoyed the atmosphere and my DH would have liked the food. However, there are lots of other great restaurants to try at WDW. It really does make it hard to choose!

I am debating on whether we really need both 1900 Park Fare and Cinderella's Royal Table. The CRT will be using up 2 of our TS credits. My DD likes to dress up as a princess occassionally, but is really not into princesses like so many other girls. She likes princesses, and enjoys playing them with her friends but she is much more into playing with her little dogs and stuffed dogs. I just don't know what to do! :confused3

We have the 1900 Park Fare scheduled for early in our trip and CRT scheduled for our last full day at WDW. So, I might cancel CRT based on her reaction to 1900 Park Fare. I just have to make sure and cancel before the 48 hour cut off. On the otherhand, I, myself think it would be pretty cool to have the experience of eating in the castle - at least just once.

I could drop 1900 PF but, I have read that the character interaction is better here, and the show is entertaining as well. So, I think that as a whole family we would enjoy the 1900 Park Fare moreso than CRT.

Any suggestions?

Echo queen

06-20-2009, 08:27 PM

[QUOTE=mdsouth;32360206]

I dropped 50's Prime Time. I am sure we would have enjoyed the atmosphere and my DH would have liked the food. However, there are lots of other great restaurants to try at WDW. It really does make it hard to choose!
:confused3

Any suggestions?[/QUOTE

The portion at 50's are huge, you could do oop and share meals. It was a good meal.

CRT is never an option for us with boys:scared1:

I have seen stollers in the gift shops but can't rember which ones, you might want to start a new tread on it to get more feedback.:)

Echo queen

06-20-2009, 08:39 PM

I would love to travel more, if only my budget and hubby would go for it!
However do you convince your hubby to go for the trips?

]The one thing that helps the most is the fact that I have the ability to make quite a bit of extra income because of my field. My womanly woes gets me the rest of the way.princess: My dh does believe if mama's not happy then no one is.[/I][I
It would be so much fun to go around Christmas. The week after Christmas is a good time to get away. I have traveled before during this week (visiting family, etc). It is nice to have Christmas at home and then get up and leave the next day. That way, you can enjoy the build-up towards the holiday, and the actual holiday itself without lugging around presents and such.

From the pictures that I have seen, the holiday lights on the castle are absolutely breathtaking! I would love to see it in person!

Staying at CR would be so much fun! We ate at Chef Mickey's last year, and wandered around a bit. My DS still remembers it, four years later and said that it would be cool to stay there with the monorail running through it! I agree! It would be so nice to just hop on the monorail to get to MK and Epcot.

When you do a Christmas trip you will not be disappointed it is all that and more, I can not put it in words how wonderful it is.:cloud9:

KatMark

06-21-2009, 09:16 PM

mdsouth

06-21-2009, 10:13 PM

Okay...I found you and I'm all caught up. Are you breakfast eaters? If so, I would switch 1900 Park Fare to breakfast rather than dinner. I've read some really bad reviews of dinner, but some great ones about breakfast.

I am an early riser, but the rest of my family are night owls. So, they are really not big breakfast eaters. That is why I chose to make use all our TS credits for either lunch or dinner.

1900 Park Fare is one that I have been debating on dropping anyway. I figure one princess meal will be enough since my DD likes princesses but it not a super huge fan. I chose 1900 Park Fare because I had read that the stepsisters and stepmom are a hoot and fun to watch!

WelovMickey!

06-21-2009, 10:35 PM

Hi!:wave2:

I am here:) I haven't read all your trip report yet but I saw your leaving in 5DAYS:banana::banana::worship::eek::woohoo: and you have waited 4 YEARS:scared1: for this trip! You are a strong woman. I could not of done it. Your husband and my husband sound a lot a like. He hates it when I say we have to go here now, cause ________ will have a long line if we wait!:rotfl: I am so happy for you to be able to go on this trip. Just remember your goal is to get your husband to fall in love with Disney so you can go again next year. I am cheering for you! I can't wait for you to get back with all the details.

jmskinner

06-22-2009, 07:57 AM

Just remember your goal is to get your husband to fall in love with Disney so you can go again next year. I am cheering for you!

I think this right here is probably why you should stick with CRT. Maybe the magic of being in the castle and your daughter meeting all of the Princesses will change your DH's mind. I hope it works. Wow, 4 days until your trip.

I'm cheering for you also to change DH's mind!:cheer2:

mdsouth

07-05-2009, 11:21 AM

We left WDW yesterday at 1:15 PM. :sad1:

So, now I have to get all my notes together and start writing the trip report.

Planning fanatic mom

07-05-2009, 12:29 PM

Welcome home. I hope you had a great time. Now the post Disney Blues will set in.:sad2:

Echo queen

07-05-2009, 03:28 PM

I am so waiting for your report:banana:

mdsouth

07-06-2009, 10:09 AM

Welcome home. I hope you had a great time. Now the post Disney Blues will set in.:sad2:

You are so right! Yesterday afternoon, I just moped around the house. I did a little laundry but not much.

It is nice to welcomed back! Thanks for being here!

mdsouth

07-06-2009, 10:11 AM

I am so waiting for your report:banana:

I am very appreciative of the knowledge that you looking forward to my report. Knowing that there are people here that are interested in my report will really motivate me. I just finished the first installment and posted it below. I plan to edit it later and add pictures.

mdsouth

07-06-2009, 10:18 AM

Chapter 1 – And Away We Go!

After much last minute scurrying, we loaded up the van and left our home around 9:30 PM Central time on June 25. We drove two and a half hours to Indianapolis. We arrived at our hotel in Indianapolis 1:00 Eastern time. We were staying at Indianapolis’s Comfort Inn and using the Sleep, Park, and Fly service. We asked the hotel clerk for a 4:30 AM wake up call since we were leaving for the airport at 5:00 AM. :scared1:

We got the kids to bed and then I tried to set the alarm clock in the room as a backup to the wake up call. The alarm clock, however, was a really weird design (lots of lights and extra sounds) and did not function properly. My husband (an engineer) and I could not get it the alarm system to work. I debated about returning to the front desk to request a new alarm clock, but chose instead to use the alarm clock on my husband’s watch instead.

I was worried that we would not hear the watch’s alarm or the wake-up call, and as a result I sleep very little during the three hour time frame. At four-thirty, we were all up and quickly jumped into our clothes and gathered our things. The shuttle service was right on time, and we were headed to the airport. :woohoo:

The new Indianapolis airport terminal is very nice. Even though I had checked in on-line, we had to go to the airline desk to check our bags. There was a short wait of about 25 minutes.

My husband and kids wanted to get something to eat for breakfast before we went through security. I was anxious and just wanted to go through security first and then eat. :scared: My husband and kids won, and he waited in the Burger King line for food. My family tends to be slow eaters, so, I became more anxious the more time they took. :sad2:Finally, I convinced them that we really needed to go!

It was a good thing that I did. The security lines were huge! The airport had lots of lines but each one was huge. We waited at least 35 to 40 minutes to go through security. Once through security, we hurried down to our gate. They were already loading our plane. :eek:We were one of the last five groups to load. It was too close of a call for me. :upsidedow

The flight was wonderful! My DD fell asleep right after take-off and awoke upon landing. My DS enjoyed the bird’s eye view from his window seat. It was a relaxing uneventful flight. It took us less time to fly from Indiana to Orlando than it did for us to drive to Indiana from our home in Illinois. :flower3:

Once we arrived at MCO we took a few minutes to take a few photographs in front of the Disney store. There is a cute wall scene outside the store with Mickey and the castle. http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MCO.jpg My son remembered having his picture taken in front of the scene the last time we were at Disney, four years previously. So, we snapped a few photos so we can compare how we have changed over the years. Then we made our way to the Magic Express service. It paid off to pre-register since we were able to skip the check-in line and proceed right to the bus. We hopped on the bus and were on our way to Coronado Springs!

Next up: Chapter 2 – Coronado Springs

Planning fanatic mom

07-06-2009, 10:37 AM

KatMark

07-06-2009, 12:06 PM

Oh good...the report is starting. I can't wait to read it.

Echo queen

07-06-2009, 12:41 PM

Great start.:cool1:

mdsouth

07-07-2009, 07:35 PM

Great beginning. I would have voted with you and waited until after security to eat.

I can't wait to hear more about Coronado Springs. I've never known anyone that stayed there. Do you have any pics??

I am almost finished with my next chapter. Yes, I have lots of pictures! Hopefully, I will be able to upload them successfully.

mdsouth

07-07-2009, 07:37 PM

Great beginning. I would have voted with you and waited until after security to eat.

I can't wait to hear more about Coronado Springs. I've never known anyone that stayed there. Do you have any pics??

Oh good...the report is starting. I can't wait to read it.

Thanks KatMark - CSR was great! Thanks to all your information and help!

EchoQueen - thanks for the positive support.

mdsouth

07-08-2009, 07:26 PM

Chapter 2 – Arrival at Coronado SpringsOnce we were on the Magic Express bus, it started to sink in that we were actually in Orlando and heading for Walt Disney World! My DD enjoyed the WDW video as we drove. I liked watching the scenery. It was amazing how the closer we got to WDW the scene changed from swamps and trees to huge resort complexes. It was interesting to me to see actual resorts that I have seen photos of over and over on the Dishoards ads.

Finally, we drove through the magical gates and everyone on the bus cheered! The bus first stop was at Pop Century. It seemed to be a bustling place. There were some maintenance workers in front repainting the big bowling pins.

Next, we stopped off at Caribbean Beach Resort. It gave my family a chance to reminiscence since the last time we were at Disney four years ago we stayed at Caribbean Beach.

Our bus continued on to Coronado Springs! I was so excited to arrive! We jumped off the bus, gathered our bags, tipped the driver and headed into the lobby.

The fountain and lobby was just as I imagined after having viewed all the photographs on the CSR thread.
There was the regular check-in line to which most of the people on our bus entered. Since I had used the online check-in system, I proceeded to a different line. There was one person at the desk ahead of me, and then it was my turn! It really paid off to use the online check-in! You can see both the regular check-in line and the online check-in line in the photograph. I am the one standing at the counter with the black top and tan shorts.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/CSRlobby.jpg

I showed the CM my ID and she handed me a welcome packet. She went over everything in the packet, including our keys to the kingdom, and park hours. We had a room only reservation the first night and a continuing reservation for the remainder of our stay. The CM gave us a map of CSR and told us we would be staying in Cabanas 9A.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/CSRMap.jpg
Woo Hoo! I knew that we would definitely have a renovated room since all the Cabanas have been renovated. Since it was so still early, 10:30 AM, our room was not ready. She told us that we would get to stay in the same room for our room only reservation the first night and our continuing reservation. They would inform us of the actual room number through a text message or a voice mail message. She told us that it would be on the ground floor just like I requested. I was so happy with the room assignment. I had requested the Cabanas when I booked our vacation. I requested the ground floor during the online check-in process. So, the CMs at CSR really do look at the requests when assigning rooms.

Our plan was to spend some time at the pool while we waited for our room to be ready. We had our swim suits in our carry-on luggage, so all we would have to do would be to change at the changing rooms by the pool. We also thought it would be fun to get our lunch from Siestas (the pool bar and grill) and eat at one of the tables overlooking the pool. As we were planning which bags to take to the pool and which to leave with bell service, the clouds opened up and it started to pour down rain!

We know that it is typical to have small rainshowers/rainstorms in the afternoon in Florida, but this storm looked like it was going to last quite awhile. The week before our arrival, Orlando had been getting some pretty heavy rain and this looked like another one. So, we had to modify our plans. We decided we would go ahead and head out to the Magic Kingdom and spend the afternoon there. My family was getting hungry and wanted to eat lunch. Since our dining package did not start until the next day, I really did not want to pay full price for a meal at Pepper Market or Maya Grill. Siestas would have been a good “budget” choice but I was afraid that they would have closed the bar/grill due to the huge rainstorm. So, I managed to get my DH to wait and eat at the Magic Kingdom. We grabbed some bags of chips to tie them over. They ate their chips as we waited for the Magic Kingdom bus.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/IMG_0040.jpg

Next up Chapter 3 – Walking down the middle of Main Street USA.

jmskinner

07-08-2009, 08:10 PM

NWOhioAngela

07-08-2009, 09:55 PM

I'm in--I love your pics from CSR

Echo queen

07-08-2009, 10:18 PM

Your report is great, I am so looking forward to our December trip:banana:

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:06 AM

I'm in--I love your pics from CSR

Welcome aboard NWOhioAngela!party:

Stay tuned, chapter 3 will have more CSR photos. We really loved the beautiful grounds at CSR. Are you planning a trip to CSR? or have you stayed there in the past?

NWOhioAngela

07-09-2009, 09:10 AM

Our first stay is in September. I was never really interested in Coronado until I saw the refurb pictures (Are you listening Disney?!) and now I'm really excited to go.

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:11 AM

You sound like me. I never sleep the night before I trip. I always worry about hearing the alarm.

The CSR lobby is gorgeous. Got to love those rainstorms here in FL. Our first trip to WDW, it poured on us the first day. The rain ponchos were in the suitcases still being delivered by ME.:sad2:

Looking forward to the next update!

Ugg about the delayed ponchos! Did your family keep reminding you how inconvenient it was that you packed them in the checked luggage instead of carrying them on your body or in your purse? :rolleyes1 I am sure at least one of my family members would have.

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:13 AM

Our first stay is in September. I was never really interested in Coronado until I saw the refurb pictures (Are you listening Disney?!) and now I'm really excited to go.

I agree with you 100%. The refurbished rooms were what drew me to CSR. Last time we went in 2005, my DH and I had to share a double bed the entire time - not fun!

Your September trip is fast approaching! Have you decided which section to request?

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:16 AM

Your report is great, I am so looking forward to our December trip:banana:

I have seen wonderful photographs of the special castle lights at Christmas. The castle looks like it is made of crystal. I would love to see it for myself.

Have you decided where you are going to stay in December?

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:19 AM

NWOhioAngela

07-09-2009, 09:33 AM

I agree with you 100%. The refurbished rooms were what drew me to CSR. Last time we went in 2005, my DH and I had to share a double bed the entire time - not fun!

Your September trip is fast approaching! Have you decided which section to request?

I'm not sure I'm even going to make a request, but I'm still mulling it over. We will have a car and we rarely use the buses, so that's not a big deal to us. Our kids are grown and won't be coming, so kid considerations don't come in to play. Any suggestions?

mdsouth

07-09-2009, 09:43 AM

Chapter 3 – Walking Down the Middle of Main Street USA

When I left you last, the rain was coming down, down, down and so we switched plans and decided to head to the Magic Kingdom.

Why the Magic Kingdom? For us, it is and will always mean Walt Disney World to us! Nothing else can compare than that first sight of the MK train station and all the excitement of Main Street, USA.

Just to give you a little idea of what MK looks like at noon on a late June afternoon, here is a photograph my DH took. It was June 26th.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKJune26.jpg

Even though MK was busier than I would have wished, there was still plenty of magic for everyone! The last time we went to WDW my DD had just turned two years old. So, she really doesn’t remember much, she would say differently!
She and I have enjoyed watching the Disney sing-along DVDs, especially the one taped in Disneyland. My DD loves all the songs. She just lit up when we entered MK. She started singing, “We are walking right down the middle of Main Street, USA” and I joined in.

One of the first things we saw was the street performers. They were a hoot! I don’t know the official name of this group but they were fun to interact with. They were having people try to hula hoop. My DD decided to give it a try.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKHoolaHoop.jpg

After our hoola hoop attempt, we headed on down the street. We were just in time to catch some of the trolley car performance. It was just so magical – for my DD it was like the scenes out of her much loved DVD came to life right before her eyes!

These moments and more are the reasons why I love WDW. It is so much fun to experience things for the first time for yourself, and then to share moments like these with the ones that you love!

Stay tuned for Chapter 4 – To Infinity and Beyond!

Planning fanatic mom

07-09-2009, 11:27 AM

mdsouth

07-10-2009, 08:41 AM

Love the pics of CS. I have never considered it before, but your pics may change my mind.

Love the pic of your DD with the hula hoop. What a great moment.

There is nothing like walking down Main Street USA... :hippie:

Looking forward to more.

Thanks for the feedback. Thanks also for helping me remember the correct term for hula hoop. For the life of me, when I was writing my report, I couldn't think of how to spell it. I knew it was wrong but continued on and meant to go back and fix it. I never did, until I saw your comment. Thanks! There was a little girl right before my DD that did a fantastic job of keeping the hula hoop going around her waist for a long time. My DD had her own version of hula hooping.

You should definitely try CSR yourself. It was a great choice for us and beautiful. I have more photos to share in Chapter 5.

jmskinner

07-10-2009, 10:21 AM

Love the pic of your DD trying the Hula Hoop. And you are right about the creating memories and also sharing them. The magic of Disney!:lovestruc

Echo queen

07-11-2009, 12:19 AM

I have seen wonderful photographs of the special castle lights at Christmas. The castle looks like it is made of crystal. I would love to see it for myself.

Have you decided where you are going to stay in December?

CSR for sure, so what is the time frame for online check-in?:banana:

LaniesMom

07-13-2009, 11:28 AM

mdsouth

07-14-2009, 10:20 PM

CSR for sure, so what is the time frame for online check-in?:banana:

Online check-in is only available starting ten days prior to your trip. You will get an email message from Disney that lets you know you can check-in online. Or you can just log in to the Disney website and access your reservation. You can check-in online up to the day prior to your arrival I think.

You will really enjoy CSR.

mdsouth

07-14-2009, 10:23 PM

Hi mdsouth!
Just started reading and I can't wait for more! I've never been to WDW in June and I'm always amazed at the people that can brave the Florida humidity in the heat of summer. We will be staying at CSR in November so I'm looking forward to more about CSR.
Your daughter is adorable with the hula hoop!

Hi LaniesMom, welcome to my TR. I am happy to have the company!:banana:

November would be an ideal time to visit.

My next segment will be more on MK and the following segment will cover CSR. I am working on the MK segment now and should have it posted by tomorrow sometime.

mdsouth

07-14-2009, 11:12 PM

Chapter 4 – To Infinity and Beyond: Blasting off to Tomorrowland!

Once we made our way up Main Street, we headed to Tomorrowland. When we were home, planning our trip, I asked my kids what they wanted to do first when they got to WDW. The kids both wanted to go to MK first. My son (Rand McNally, tee hee) said he would like to start in Tomorrowland.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKTomorrowland.jpg

My family was famished, so our first stop was Cosmic Rays. We had eaten here during our last trip in 2004 and I wasn’t impressed. Over the last four years, I have read numerous trip reports, dining reviews, and counter service threads where people shared that Cosmic Rays was a good counter service choice in MK. :surfweb:So, I decided that it was convenient and worth another shot.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CosmicRays.jpg

We ordered three Double Cheeseburger meals and an extra bun (80 cents. My DH and DS each got one of their own. I used the extra bun to share the double cheeseburger with my DD, so she and I both ended up having our own single cheeseburger. I found the burgers to be very dry and bland.:sad2: I would recommend trying either the chicken entrée, a salad or go somewhere else.

Echo queen

07-14-2009, 11:56 PM

Ok, that was a small dose:surfweb: Still loving your TR and waiting for more.:thumbsup2 I have followed TR's for 6 months or so :scared1:so I can hold on.:surfweb:

mdsouth

07-15-2009, 09:29 AM

Ok, that was a small dose:surfweb: Still loving your TR and waiting for more.:thumbsup2 I have followed TR's for 6 months or so :scared1:so I can hold on.:surfweb:

You are right, it was a short chapter! I was having trouble with either my computer or the internet, so, I just decided to try back later.

mdsouth

07-15-2009, 09:54 AM

Chapter 5 - Blasting off in Tomorrowland!

Next, we checked out the Speedway line. It was close to 25 minutes, so we decided to try Buzz Lightyear. We ended up heading into Laugh Floor first since there was no line! The kids loved the pre-show! We all found the show to be very entertaining! It was a great start to our trip.

Following the Laugh Floor, we rode Buzz Lightyear, as the line was pretty much non-existence. We started inside, and the wait was 5 minutes or so. I rode with my DS and my hubby rode with our little girl. Just as we began the ride, it slowed to a stop. We were part way up the ramp in the first room. We were able to spin around and keep playing. By the time, we had made our way to the second room, Rand McNally had already earned the highest score possible. He continued to shot targets as we went through the ride, but, it was a bit of a disappointment, not to see the racking up of points as the ride progressed.

After Buzz Lightyear, we headed back towards Speedway. This time we decided to wait in line since the wait time was now 20 minutes. It wasn’t a bad wait. We would have had a shorter wait had we chosen the right-hand side when the line splits. The left-hand side is a little longer wait since the line goes up and over a bridge and down the other side. This was my DD’s first experience with the Speedway. She was a bit apprehensive and wasn’t sure she wanted to drive. As we waited in line, I explained to her that she would steer the car, but there was an actual rail under the car that made sure you stayed on the road. She was relieved and decided that she did want to drive. This is an example of my DD’s personality. She is a very conscious six year old. She is not one to jump in and do something without thinking it through first. Both my kids are timid in that way.

My DD is a very tall six year old. She stands four feet one inch tall and just turned six in late March. At 49 inches, she could have gone on all but a couple of rides at WDW. Even at 49 inches, she was unable to reach the pedals and steer at the same time. It worked out well for me to push the gas pedal. There was a slightly older girl riding alone in the car on the track beside us. She had difficulty at times reaching the gas petal and had trouble keeping the car going.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/Speedway2.jpg

My DS really enjoyed driving the car. Last time, at age eight, due to his timid personality, he rode in a car while his dad drove it.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/JacobSpeedway.jpg

Chapter 6 - Toontown and back to CSR

brookelizabeth

07-20-2009, 08:10 AM

mdsouth

07-20-2009, 12:31 PM

Hi there! I found your TR on a link from the CSR thread and bounced over here to read it - we are headed to CSR in early September. :yay:

I'm really enjoying your report-I cannot believe you waited FOUR YEARS to go back! You have iron willpower! :laughing: Do you have to wait another four to go again, or did your DH happen to get "bit" this time by the magic??? :goodvibes

Welcome :welcome: brookelizabeth! I love your name! I really wanted to name our DD Brooke Elizabeth but our last name begins with an S and several people warned us about giving our DD the initials BS. So, we chose another name. I still sometimes wish we would have named her Brooke. It is just such a beautiful name that is common enough people can pronounce it easily but it is not extremely popular.

Anyway, yes it really was four long years between our visits. :snail:
I hated it! :sad1: I spent loads of time here on the Dis reading the trip reports of others and just wishing and hoping for some :tinker: pixie dust!

Unfortunately, we live quite a long way away and can only afford to take a big trip every other year or so. My DH is not that into Disney and to my sadness his attitude did not change on this trip. He says we are done with Disney. But due to my :lovestruc of it, I will just have to plan and go back again in a few years - this time just the kids and I. :smooth:I have a neighbor that doesn't have any kids of her own and she loves Disney too. She said she would love to go with the kids and me next time, so that is just what we might do! :cool1:

mdsouth

07-20-2009, 12:45 PM

Chapter 6 – Toontown

We took a spin on the Mad Teacups. We all tried to get into one teacup but since my DH is so tall, that even with his legs scrunched up as far as they could possibly go, we could not close the door all the way. The CM tried to help us close the door, but after seeing the situation, chose to have us split up into two teacups. My DH could then stretch out his legs! So, my DD and I rode in one teacup and my DH and son rode in another. This worked out well since I get motion sickness and my DD is timid. We enjoyed the ride without adding the additional spinning factor. My DH and son got to spin their teacup to their hearts content. Here is a short video clip my DH taped as they rode. I am having trouble loading the video. I will work on it and hopefully have it up later.

After the teacups, we headed to Toontown. My DS wanted to ride Goofy’s Barnstormer.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/Barnstormer.jpg

Our DD decided not to ride, so she and I went shopping. Almost immediately, she found Chip and Dale stuffed animals. They were paired together. She carried them around the store with her. I knew as soon as I saw her pick them up that there would be going home with us! We are huge Chip and Dale fans!

After the boys got of the Barnstormer, we toured Minnie’s house. I just love Minnie’s house. I think the Imagineers did a great job with it. I wish Mickey’s house was set up more like Minnie’s house with the interactive elements.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MinniesChair2009.jpg
We did not go into the County Fair to see Mickey since we had plans to have dinner with him later in the week. Instead we decided to take a ride on the train before heading back to CSR.

While waiting for the train, we really noticed the decline of cleanliness at WDW since our last visit in 2005. We saw lots of trash that had not been picked up and my DH noticed how the railings in the line were chipping away in lots of areas. He remembered how one of the Travel Channel shows shared how Disney employees worked overnight after the parks closed to repair and repaint every night so that everything always looked nice. Granted, we were in line at the train around 3:00 in the afternoon, but still there were lots of numerous chips, up and down the line. It is hard to believe that much was chipped away in the six hours that the park was open.

We rode the train all the way around the park and then back to the Main Street train station. As we were getting off the train to head out of the park, we saw Chip and Dale greeting visitors. We immediately got in line to have our photo taken with Chip and Dale. It was just magical to my DD since she had just bought her own Chip and Dale. She had fun showing them the stuffed animals. The stuffed animals were still connected at the hands. Dale noticed this and made sure that that they switched sides so that they were in the right place for the photo. Too cute!

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/ChipandDale.jpg
Next up – Chapter 7 - CSR

brookelizabeth

07-22-2009, 09:24 AM

Sounds like some great interaction with Chip & Dale! :goodvibes I wish Mickey's house was more like Minnie's too. When we went through the first time I was thinking it would be and I was a bit disappointed. It's a tad surprising you can really do anything in the Big Man's house...:confused3 I hope to ride Barnstormer in September if DS is tall enough and willing....not sure how he'll do though! :scared:

Welcome :welcome: brookelizabeth! I love your name! I really wanted to name our DD Brooke Elizabeth but our last name begins with an S and several people warned us about giving our DD the initials BS. So, we chose another name. I still sometimes wish we would have named her Brooke. It is just such a beautiful name that is common enough people can pronounce it easily but it is not extremely popular.

Anyway, yes it really was four long years between our visits. :snail:
I hated it! :sad1: I spent loads of time here on the Dis reading the trip reports of others and just wishing and hoping for some :tinker: pixie dust!

Unfortunately, we live quite a long way away and can only afford to take a big trip every other year or so. My DH is not that into Disney and to my sadness his attitude did not change on this trip. He says we are done with Disney. But due to my :lovestruc of it, I will just have to plan and go back again in a few years - this time just the kids and I. :smooth:I have a neighbor that doesn't have any kids of her own and she loves Disney too. She said she would love to go with the kids and me next time, so that is just what we might do! :cool1:

Thank you for the warm welcome!

I really do like my name, I spell it without the "e" at the end and when I was little I HATED that because everyone would spell it with the e. I learned to like it though, it's what makes me a bit different! :goodvibes I like the name for the same reasons you do - it's common enough that people know how to pronounce it, but still not very common.

Your plans for your next trip sound really great! It would be great to go with a friend who loves Disney as much as you!! And hopefully this time you can sneak it in before four years! ;)

mdsouth

07-24-2009, 09:49 PM

mdsouth

07-24-2009, 10:28 PM

Chapter 7 – Our resort - CSR

We decided to head back to CSR, to relax. We were worn out since we had been up since 3:00 AM Central time. So, we headed to the resort busses. A great big perk for staying at CSR is that CSR is the closest bus stop to the MK entrance. It is the very first bus stop, closer than the deluxe resorts and DVC resorts.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0203.jpg

We got off at CSR at bus stop #1. While we waited for the bus, I called the front desk to find out our room number. They had called my husband’s cell instead of mine and he didn’t get the room number. We found out we would be staying in 9130. It is located in Cabanas 9A on the ground floor. We found it easily.

I loved the Cabanas! There are gorgeous! I loved all the tropical flowers and plants and palm trees along the walkways. I was also surprised how we hardly ever saw people around our own buidling. Most the time it seemed as if we had it to ourselves!

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0197.jpg

The quiet pool was right there. We never used it. We ended up going to the Dig Site instead. I liked how close the Dig Site and El Centre were to Cabanas 9A.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0195.jpg

DH told the kids to not mess up the room until he took some pictures. The room was just like the ones posted on the DIS. I really liked the color scheme, it was soothing. The new queen beds and bedding were great looking and very comfortable. There is very little room on either side of the beds, especially since these rooms were originally built to hold two double beds.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/CSRbeds.jpg

More CSR photos and review to follow in my next post!

Planning fanatic mom

07-24-2009, 10:36 PM

Thanks for the info on CSR. CSR is a strong possibility for our next trip if we go moderate. The queen beds are a big draw for us. Can't wait to see more.popcorn::

Echo queen

07-24-2009, 10:44 PM

Thanks for the update. We are off to Las Vegas for the week:cool1: I will have to catch up when I return. Lovin it:thumbsup2

KatMark

07-24-2009, 10:48 PM

Thanks for the update. We are off to Las Vegas for the week:cool1: I will have to catch up when I return. Lovin it:thumbsup2

Have fun in Vegas. My DH is headed there in two weeks--for business!

jmskinner

07-24-2009, 11:56 PM

Ok, all caught up. We were off visiting the world ourselves.

Sorry you didn't like the burgers at Cosmic Rays, but I loved your idea of buying double cheeseburgers and an extra bun. I never thought of that.

We got stopped on Buzz Lightyear and my DS raked up points first thing also. Does take the fun out of it.

I don't do the teacups at all. Can't handle anything spinning.

Waiting for more pics of the resort. Reminds me of POR. Even though it is a huge resort, you don't see that many people unless you are at the food court or pool. I walked several times for breakfast and never saw anyone until I got to the pool area.

brookelizabeth

07-25-2009, 01:25 AM

Loving your CSR pics! The Cabanas look so beautiful and relaxing.

Good to know about there being very little room on the sides of the bed...do you think there was enough room to squeeze in a pack & play? We've only ever done a King room at Disney at AKL, Pop, and SSR - so this is new territory for me with the smaller beds...

Responding to your comment to me - isn't it funny how kids will ride some things and not others? I read a report on here once where the little girl would ride EE, but not BTMRR! :laughing: I'm with you on Mission:Space though...:sick: I'll wait until Henry realizes what it is and wants to ride, which should be YEARS from now...! :thumbsup2

mdsouth

07-25-2009, 09:31 AM

I am proud of myself. :hippie: I finally figured out how to reply with multiple quotes. :banana: I can't believe that I messed it up in my previous try. It is so easy! For those like me that are often technology challenged, you just click the little paper beside reply with quotes, selecting it and then move on to the next post you want to quote and select it too!

It is nice to know that lots of people are checking in to the report for the CSR photos. :yay: CSR is definitely our top resort pick now! We really had a great time there! I love the atmosphere and really was surprised at how quiet and relaxing it is! Woo Hoo - but I am getting ahead of myself, this info is in my next installment. Right now, I was checking in. I am still updating some photos onto photobucket to share. The next segment should be posted by late afternoon today. I have a few errands to run this morning.

Thanks for the info on CSR. CSR is a strong possibility for our next trip if we go moderate. The queen beds are a big draw for us. Can't wait to see more.popcorn:: You will be happy with CSR for your choice. The difference between sleeping on a double bed or queen bed all week really made a HUGE difference for us! I woke up more refreshed and ready to hit the parks than on our previous trip sleeping in double beds.
Thanks for the update. We are off to Las Vegas for the week:cool1: I will have to catch up when I return. Lovin it:thumbsup2

Have fun in Vegas! Looking forward to visiting with you again upon your return!

Have fun in Vegas. My DH is headed there in two weeks--for business! KatMark, perhaps your DH could convince his boss that he needs a personal assistant to help him keep records, etc on his trip. Then you could go along yourself! You might want to check our airfare rates for yourself. My sister has gone with her husband a few times when he had to go on business (different places). While he was in meetings, she either lounged by the pool, went shopping or went on sight-seeing trips. He would join her when he was finished with the meetings. It gave them a chance to have mini-vacations for just the cost of her airfare, food, and other additional costs (shopping, sight-seeing expenses).

Ok, all caught up. We were off visiting the world ourselves.

Welcome Back to reality! So, when will your TR begin?I will have to check it out!

Sorry you didn't like the burgers at Cosmic Rays, but I loved your idea of buying double cheeseburgers and an extra bun. I never thought of that.

I got the idea myself from here on the DIS.

We got stopped on Buzz Lightyear and my DS raked up points first thing also. Does take the fun out of it. Yes, exactly

I don't do the teacups at all. Can't handle anything spinning. That is me! I chickened out on the mild side of Mission Mars ride too, even though the rest of my family went including my DD who is 6.

Waiting for more pics of the resort. Reminds me of POR. Even though it is a huge resort, you don't see that many people unless you are at the food court or pool. I walked several times for breakfast and never saw anyone until I got to the pool area.Exactly why I chose to go with a moderate instead of a value resort

Loving your CSR pics! The Cabanas look so beautiful and relaxing.They definitely are! The whole resort is very relaxing, no matter which section you are in.

Good to know about there being very little room on the sides of the bed...do you think there was enough room to squeeze in a pack & play? We've only ever done a King room at Disney at AKL, Pop, and SSR - so this is new territory for me with the smaller beds...
The pack and play would work great next to the vanity area or next to the dresser with the tv on it. We had room in both areas for our luggage so, the pack and play would fit nicely. Someone on the CSR thread might even have personal experience to share and possibly a photo.

Responding to your comment to me - isn't it funny how kids will ride some things and not others? I read a report on here once where the little girl would ride EE, but not BTMRR! :laughing: I'm with you on Mission:Space though...:sick: I'll wait until Henry realizes what it is and wants to ride, which should be YEARS from now...! :thumbsup2
Yes, if you are lucky it will take years before your boy discovers the nausea inducing rides!

Well, I better get back to uploading some photos and to my errands if I am ever going to post the new installment with of CSR!

KatMark

07-25-2009, 12:05 PM

KatMark, perhaps your DH could convince his boss that he needs a personal assistant to help him keep records, etc on his trip. Then you could go along yourself! You might want to check our airfare rates for yourself. My sister has gone with her husband a few times when he had to go on business (different places). While he was in meetings, she either lounged by the pool, went shopping or went on sight-seeing trips. He would join her when he was finished with the meetings. It gave them a chance to have mini-vacations for just the cost of her airfare, food, and other additional costs (shopping, sight-seeing expenses).

Actually, I used to go with him all the time. He goes twice a year -- February and August. I always used to go in August. His company then stopped paying for spouses trips and I went once or twice after that when we were able to get a free airline ticket (hotel was already paid for). I thought of going this year after we had to cancel Disney, but oldest DS will be gone the same week and then no one would be home for our sweet dog, Cookie. We can't put her in a kennel because it would kill her...she has never been and being 12 years old now I don't think she could handle it. She gets depressed when DH is not here and depressed when we are both gone. If she didn't have my son either, I think it would do her in (and she still misses my dad...she refuses to sit anywhere but DH's lap or in the spot on the couch where my dad used to sit with her).

mdsouth

07-27-2009, 05:58 PM

Actually, I used to go with him all the time. He goes twice a year -- February and August. I always used to go in August. His company then stopped paying for spouses trips and I went once or twice after that when we were able to get a free airline ticket (hotel was already paid for). I thought of going this year after we had to cancel Disney, but oldest DS will be gone the same week and then no one would be home for our sweet dog, Cookie. We can't put her in a kennel because it would kill her...she has never been and being 12 years old now I don't think she could handle it. She gets depressed when DH is not here and depressed when we are both gone. If she didn't have my son either, I think it would do her in (and she still misses my dad...she refuses to sit anywhere but DH's lap or in the spot on the couch where my dad used to sit with her).

I can understand your reasons for staying home. That is sweet how Cookie likes to sit in a special place on the couch. What a great reminder of how your father is still a big part of your family's everyday life.

mdsouth

07-27-2009, 06:57 PM

Chapter 8 - More CSR

DH fell asleep, so the kids and I headed out to the pool on our own. We were excited to check out the Dig Site. It was a quick walk from our room to the pool (3 minutes). :thumbsup2 The pool was really neat looking. The kids thought that the pyramid was cool. :cool2: CSR has lifejackets at the pool that you can use for free. :yay:We chose one for DD and set our stuff down on a chair. Then we jumped in the pool. If I remember correctly, the pool’s depth ranges from three feet to about 4 and one half feet. There are steps that descend into the pool. I enjoyed sitting on one of the lower steps as the kids swam near me. The temperature was just right. It was a perfect way to cool off after our time in the park. I really found the sound of the waterfall (part of the pyramid) to be relaxing. :music:

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0212.jpg
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0214.jpg

After our swim, we got out of the pool and went over to Siesta's. Siesta’s is the pool’s bar and grill. Francisco was there just like the photo I saw on the CSR thread! We ordered our food from Siesta's. There are lots of tables that you can sit at while you eat. We ordered a cheeseburger meal andan order of nachos. The food was good. :cheer2:My DS liked the cheeseburgers that he got at Siesta’s (we ate there more than once) the best of the whole trip. I ordered a second cheeseburger meal to take back to the room for my DH. The cheeseburger meal came with fries and a dill pickle. Since our dining plan did not start until our second day, we paid out of pocket. I also bought two refillable mugs as well. We got the mugs that are specific to CSR. It says Pepper Market and has the three caballeros, Donald Duck, Jose, and Panchito on it.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/DSC_0210.jpg
These mugs are wider and a bit taller than the new design that is generic (the same design at all the resorts). The old CSR mug holds a bit more liquid than the new design. Later in the week, we got one of the new refillable mugs so I have both designs to compare.
We turned in early since we had had an extremely long day.

Planning fanatic mom

07-27-2009, 07:05 PM

Great Update. Thanks for all of the great CSR pics. Lovely.:cloud9:

mdsouth

07-27-2009, 07:13 PM

Great Update. Thanks for all of the great CSR pics. Lovely.:cloud9:

Most of the photos were taken from my DH. He is a photo enthusiast.
Here is a photo of the CSR playground. I was really surprised to discover that the playground, the arcade, Siesta's and the main pool are all together. This is really nice since the kids can play on the playground while the adults sit at a table watching them.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/DSC_0217.jpg

joannem

07-27-2009, 10:10 PM

brookelizabeth

07-28-2009, 11:56 PM

The pack and play would work great next to the vanity area or next to the dresser with the tv on it. We had room in both areas for our luggage so, the pack and play would fit nicely. Someone on the CSR thread might even have personal experience to share and possibly a photo.

Thank you for this info, and also a great idea! I will ask that on the CSR thread. :thumbsup2

It would be wonderful to just have a King room, but they cost extra at CSR, and this is a serious "budget trip"!

Ahhh, that pool is BEAUTIFUL! I love that you can use your DDP at Siesta's too....we will be on the QSDP. I'm with ya on the playground, pool and Siesta's all being right there in one place. My DS is still a tot, so we'll be right next to him, but maybe DH can watch him for a bit while I get some shut-eye pool side. ;)

I didn't realize CSR got new mugs too - is it the same logo, but just a different shape/design? Are the "Celebration" mugs available at all at CSR?

KatMark

07-29-2009, 12:11 AM

Thank you for this info, and also a great idea! I will ask that on the CSR thread. :thumbsup2

It would be wonderful to just have a King room, but they cost extra at CSR, and this is a serious "budget trip"!

Ahhh, that pool is BEAUTIFUL! I love that you can use your DDP at Siesta's too....we will be on the QSDP. I'm with ya on the playground, pool and Siesta's all being right there in one place. My DS is still a tot, so we'll be right next to him, but maybe DH can watch him for a bit while I get some shut-eye pool side. ;)

I didn't realize CSR got new mugs too - is it the same logo, but just a different shape/design? Are the "Celebration" mugs available at all at CSR?

Brooke:

The CSR recently switched to the same mug as all of the other resorts--the Celebration mugs.

A king room has a maximum capacity of 2--doesn't even matter if an infant is my understanding (don't ask me--I don't understand it).

brookelizabeth

07-29-2009, 07:47 AM

Brooke:

The CSR recently switched to the same mug as all of the other resorts--the Celebration mugs.

A king room has a maximum capacity of 2--doesn't even matter if an infant is my understanding (don't ask me--I don't understand it).

Thanks for the info KatMark!!

That is strange about the King room....:confused3

jmskinner

07-29-2009, 09:48 AM

Love that pool. Hope to make it to CSR one day.

KatMark

07-29-2009, 10:36 AM

Thanks for the info KatMark!!

That is strange about the King room....:confused3

I thought it odd myself. But I actually read it about someone trying to get a King room at the Caribbean with a three year old and they would not allow it. If you look at allears, it lists "Maximum of 2" for all king rooms at all resorts. :confused3

brookelizabeth

07-30-2009, 11:51 PM

I thought it odd myself. But I actually read it about someone trying to get a King room at the Caribbean with a three year old and they would not allow it. If you look at allears, it lists "Maximum of 2" for all king rooms at all resorts. :confused3

Oops, guess we've broken that rule a few times! :lmao:

Echo queen

08-04-2009, 08:52 PM

Ok, I'm back from Vegas:) Where are you, isn't there more:confused: Great photos, thanks for the multi post tip.:thumbsup2 I'm readypopcorn::

mdsouth

08-05-2009, 05:32 PM

Ok, I'm back from Vegas:) Where are you, isn't there more:confused: Great photos, thanks for the multi post tip.:thumbsup2 I'm readypopcorn::

I am glad you are back! Hopefully your trip was an enjoyable one!

I have been very neglient! We adopted a dog from the local humane society last week - exactly one week from today! So, I have been busy trying to help Max's adjustment to our home, that and I am also frantically trying to do some preparations for the beginning of the new school year. I teach eighth grade and both my school and my kid's school begins on August 17.

However, I am also frantically working on completing this TR. I am in the process of finishing up a couple of chapters and will post at least one tomorrow!

mdsouth

08-05-2009, 05:42 PM

That TOTALLY looks like me and my husband in the shot of the pyramid where you can see the water slide on the side! Only I can't figure out where my younger son would be and I think the color of my bathing suit is different. But that COULD be my husband! We were probably at the pool that day too! Cool!

Joanne

Joanne, check out these pool photos. I would be neat if you did see yourself in one of my photos. I do not know when during our stay it was taken.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/P1000848.jpg

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/CSR%202009/P1000846.jpg

KatMark

08-05-2009, 05:56 PM

I am glad you are back! Hopefully your trip was an enjoyable one!

I have been very neglient! We adopted a dog from the local humane society last week - exactly one week from today! So, I have been busy trying to help Max's adjustment to our home, that and I am also frantically trying to do some preparations for the beginning of the new school year. I teach eighth grade and both my school and my kid's school begins on August 17.

However, I am also frantically working on completing this TR. I am in the process of finishing up a couple of chapters and will post at least one tomorrow!

Congrats on the new puppy. In case you haven't seen, Mark and I were able to squeeze in a 3 night/4 day stay at the CSR in September on our way to Marco Island. :woohoo:

mdsouth

08-05-2009, 06:04 PM

Congrats on the new puppy. In case you haven't seen, Mark and I were able to squeeze in a 3 night/4 day stay at the CSR in September on our way to Marco Island. :woohoo:

Wow! I am so happy to hear about your upcoming trip! That is great news. Now, I don't have to feel guilty that I got to go to CSR this year and you weren't.

Our dog is one year old. So, he is past the chewing stage but still loves to play. We are working out some housetraining issues. We know it will take some time since he was in a shelter.

mdsouth

08-07-2009, 10:33 AM

Chapter 9 – MK Day 2

I woke up early on June 27th eager to head out to the Magic Kingdom. Unfortunately, I had to go to the lobby and recheck in since our first night was just a room only and our package started today. I had hoped to get our paper tickets put onto our Key to the World cards. While I was at CSR, I bought a box of donuts in the lobby’s gift shop for a quick breakfast for the kids. There were a few people in the shop and a few checking out. I proceeded to the check out counter and placed my donuts on the counter and stood there in front of the CM but just a little to the side, so I was not crowding the people checking out. The people checking out were not speaking English and were having some difficulty with their purchase. As all this was going on, three other people were milling around the shop towards the front. They were checking out the merchandise and going back and forth between the different displays. Once the people checking out were finished, one of the other people in the store threw his stuff on the counter, shoved it towards the CM and pronounced that he was next. :sad2:
The CM started to pick up his purchases. I announced that I was actually next. The CM wasn’t sure since she had been busy dealing with the other customers. The guy became very vocal and continued that he was there before me. I tried to explain that he was not, I had been up front at the counter the whole time while the three of them shopped. Anyway, he and the other too went on and on about being first. :mad:So, the CM checked them out first. When they left, the CM apologized to me about the situation. I told her, I wasn’t going to let it ruin my trip. It was an extremely frustrating way to begin the day.

Finally, I returned to the room to find the rest of my family up but not ready to go. So, I bustled them along and gave the kids the donuts and milk we had bought the previous night. Then we headed out to the bus stop. There was a short wait before the MK bus arrived.

By the time we got to MK it was about 9:30. MK opened at 9:00 so it wasn’t too bad. :) We decided to split up with my DH and son heading towards Thunder Mountain Railroad and my DD and myself heading towards Fantasyland. We arranged to meet each other for lunch at Pinocchio’s Village Haus. From my exhaustive Disboard reading, I knew it was a great choice for counter service in MK. :thumbsup2

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0040-Copy.jpg

My DD (Little Sweetie) wanted to ride Winnie the Pooh first, so that is what we did. We pretty much walked right on, it was about a five minute wait perhaps as people were loaded ahead of us. She really enjoyed the ride. I did too. I wonder though why the Imagineers choose to make the longest scene the one with the Woozles? In my opinion, most preschool kids would have enjoyed a longer scene with the main characters. The set up with the honey pots zooming from one place to the next would have been ideal for the scene taking place in Owl’s house. It would have been like we were shooting across the room and back just like Pooh and Piglet do in the book and movie. Of course, I never liked the scene with the Woozles as a kid myself and do not care for it as an adult. Little kids just like to ride things that are about their favorite characters, they don’t have to be scared.

Don’t get me wrong, I think that the Imagineers do a fabulous, amazing job of creating the rides and attractions at WDW. There are just a couple that could use a bit of modification. Another ride that could learn from the concept that little kids do not have to be scared to have fun is Snow White’s Adventure. Lots of little kids get extremely scared on this ride due to the dark, etc. and the bigger kids avoid it since it is not scary enough for them. The ride could be a really fun ride if they had scenes with Snow White and the animals cleaning the dwarf’s house, interacting with the dwarfs, the dwarfs at the diamond mine, you would feel like you were zooming down the mine shaft in a coal car. Adding those changes while keeping some of the bits with the evil queen would make the ride more appealing to many people.
Anyhoo, back to our touring, DD and I jumped back on Winnie the Pooh for a second ride since she enjoyed it so much and the wait was basically none existent. I knew the wait would be unbearable later in the day.

DD and I went on Peter Pan next. Again, the wait was minimal (10 minutes)! Peter Pan, along with It’s a Small World, are my all-time favorite rides at WDW. I loved them as a child and still love them today. On our last trip back in 2005, Peter Pan was closed for maintenance. Over the years, the kids learned that loved Peter Pan and was looking forward to it this trip. So, I was extremely excited to share the ride experience with my DD. I love how you immediately head out the window and up in the night sky. It is so easy to let your imagination take over. Little Sweetie, enjoyed this ride immensely! It was so much fun to watch her face and point out little things in the scenes below.

We stepped off one boat and proceeded directly to another, It’s a Small World, no wait at all, we walked straight down the ramp and onto a boat with no wait. My DD was mesmerized! She loved watching all the little dolls and animals sing.

We checked in with the guys and they were about to load a ride and then planned to head our way to grab an early lunch. So, Little Sweetie and I went back on one Peter Pan again while we waited. The line was longer this time. The family in front of me had a boy about 8 or 9 that was fussing and hungry. I overheard the parents discussing what food options might be close, especially for their picky eater. They didn’t have any ideas what was around. So, me, the DisNavigator had to step in and share my knowledge with them. I told them about Columbia Harbor House and Pinocchio’s Village Haus.

Once the ride was over, Little Sweetie and I stood outside Pinocchio’s watching for the guys. They arrived and we went inside. I spied an open table overlooking the It’s a Small World ride, so the kids sat there while my DH and I ordered the food. Again, the knowledge I gained from the Dis and AllEarsnet.com came to the rescue. Pinocchio’s a fantastic choice for my family. My DD ate macaroni and cheese, my DS got the pizza, and my hubby and I had salads. I picked the Caesar salad with chicken and it was great!
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PinocchioVillageHaus.jpg

On our way out, I saw the family that I had spoken to in the Peter Pan line. I asked how it worked out for them. They said that it was a good choice, their son liked the pizza.

The boys had fun riding Thunder Mountain Railroad at least twice. I think they did some other stuff but I am not sure what.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0027-Copy.jpg
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0023-Copy.jpg
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0024-Copy.jpg

Next up: Chapter 10 – Family time at MK

jmskinner

08-07-2009, 11:36 AM

mdsouth

08-07-2009, 11:48 AM

Great update and fantastic you were able to help another family find food.:thumbsup2

Sorry about the rude guest. When I run into that I just tell myself, I'm at Disney and nothing is getting me down.

Sitting here reading your report I realize we have never headed to Fantasyland first and that is probably what we should do since most trips I don't get to ride Peter Pan or Snow White.

Definitely hit Fantasyland first at least once! The lines, wait times and crowds are basically none existent before 10:30 or so. And remember, I was there the week before the fourth of July! We had a great time!

Planning fanatic mom

08-07-2009, 04:15 PM

Echo queen

08-08-2009, 01:04 AM

Great update and suggestions.:thumbsup2

tinkgurl

08-08-2009, 12:57 PM

Yay! I'm glad you liked Pinnochio's. We love it there!

We wee at DHS this day, so darn it, I won't be in the background of any of your pics. :laughing:

mdsouth

08-10-2009, 10:25 AM

Great Update.

We too did a day where we went to Fantasyland first. It is a good idea. We walked right on everything and then headed elsewhere.

I've never eaten at Pinocchio Haus. I'll have to remember that for next time. Why did I think it was German food?:confused3

Can't wait to hear more.

Planning fanatic mom, isn't the word, haus German? And weren't Pinocchio and Gepheto (spelling?) German? So, it would make sense that the restaurant would have German food. :confused3 I don't remember anything German on the menu. Maybe Disney should add a brat to the menu. That would make more sense than pizza. German potato salad would be another good addition.

Great update and suggestions.:thumbsup2
Thanks Echo queen! I will try to remember to add more suggestions/tips in my upcoming chapters.

Yay! I'm glad you liked Pinnochio's. We love it there!

We wee at DHS this day, so darn it, I won't be in the background of any of your pics. :laughing:

tinkgirl, we still have a couple more days of overlapping vacations so you still might see yourself!

I am happy ya'll stuck around after my long lapse from posting a new chapter. Hopefully, I am still working on the next chapter. I will post it tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, I have to spend most of today cleaning the house, doing laundry and taking the dog to the vet!

Planning fanatic mom

08-10-2009, 10:39 AM

You are welcome. I love German potato salad!!

Have fun cleaning.:rotfl:

PracPerfPatricia

08-12-2009, 11:21 PM

mdsouth

08-13-2009, 11:04 AM

Hello!

I followed your trip report over from...hmmm...I forget now...:confused3

anyhow I'm enjoying reading your report-I've been reading a lot of nice things about the CSR recently-I'm interested in possibly staying there...love the pool photos....

I love your nickname for your son Rand McNally....:lmao:My DS who just turned 7 has Asperger's also and could identify the states by sight when he was 4-he knows all about them and other countries as well...it's a helpful skill-we haven't been able to use him as our personal navigator yet-maybe in a couple of years...

I'm so with you on the Snow White Ride-It is such a beautiful film and that ride is just -uhhh......:eek:

sorry about the rude people in the morning...that stuff bugs me extra at Disney...:mad:

PracPerfPatricia glad to have you aboard! :jumping1:
It sounds like our sons have lots in common! My DS rocks at geography! It is amazing how he and your son can identify the states just by shape! My son can identify between 100 to 200 countries around the world! Needless to say, the kids at his school love to be paired up with him for certain projects! :yay::cool1:

So, are you planning a trip currently?

mdsouth

08-13-2009, 11:27 AM

Chapter 10 Family Time at MK

At lunch the kids enjoyed watching the boats head into It's a Small World. So, of course, right after lunch we headed onto the ride as a family. You just can't go to MK without riding this ride at least once! http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/ItsaSmallWorld2.jpg
In this photo it looks like I am wearing white Minnie ears. They are actually being worn by the little girl sitting behind us. My DD is on the other side of her brother, unseen in the photo.

Before lunch, we had picked up Fastpasses for Peter Pan, so we headed there next. It was lots of fun going on the ride again. This time, I was able to introduce the ride to my son for the first time! He really liked the scene over London streets the best! He is always creating cities with his Hot Wheels road tracks. He also loves to draw his own cities - bird's eye view. He spends hours plotting out the layout of the city - roads, parks, stores, it all. So, flying over London's city scene was ideal for him!

After Peter Pan we headed over to Frontierland and Adventureland.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKStocks.jpg

Planning fanatic mom

08-13-2009, 01:40 PM

Excellent Update. We didn't get to PP this past trip:guilty:

I love the pic of the "boys" in the stocks. Every family has one of those. It is a must do. :woohoo:

Can't wait for more. popcorn::

PracPerfPatricia

08-13-2009, 08:17 PM

PracPerfPatricia glad to have you aboard! :jumping1:
It sounds like our sons have lots in common! My DS rocks at geography! It is amazing how he and your son can identify the states just by shape! My son can identify between 100 to 200 countries around the world! Needless to say, the kids at his school love to be paired up with him for certain projects! :yay::cool1:

So, are you planning a trip currently?

Yeah-DS loves geography so much that he actually went out as "The Scrambled States of America" for Halloween-(there is a kids book called that by Laurie Keller...:goodvibes

AS a matter of fact we are currently planning a trip-lol-we'll be there next Tuesday-staying at AKL...:woohoo:

Chapter 10 Family Time at MK

At lunch the kids enjoyed watching the boats head into It's a Small World. So, of course, right after lunch we headed onto the ride as a family. You just can't go to MK without riding this ride at least once!
I agree-in fact I think its a "Disney rule..."::)

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/ItsaSmallWorld2.jpg
In this photo it looks like I am wearing white Minnie ears. They are actually being worn by the little girl sitting behind us.
Yep-it does look like you are wearing them-it's ok-looks cute...:thumbsup2

My DD is on the other side of her brother, unseen in the photo.

Before lunch, we had picked up Fastpasses for Peter Pan, so we headed there next. It was lots of fun going on the ride again. This time, I was able to introduce the ride to my son for the first time! He really liked the scene over London streets the best! He is always creating cities with his Hot Wheels road tracks. He also loves to draw his own cities - bird's eye view. He spends hours plotting out the layout of the city - roads, parks, stores, it all. So, flying over London's city scene was ideal for him!

Aww-I love that ride-sentimental favorite-we were actually fortunate to be in London a couple of years ago...DS was ...3 1/2 I think...I didn't think he'd remember anything_i wouldn't have when I was 3 1/2-but with his photographic memory-he actually does remember some stuff-so he likes watching PP, Mary Poppins & 101 Dalmations...because he was "there"...;)

After Peter Pan we headed over to Frontierland and Adventureland.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKStocks.jpg

Looking forward to hearing more...popcorn::

Echo queen

08-14-2009, 12:16 AM

Nice installmentpopcorn::

mdsouth

08-15-2009, 02:06 PM

Yeah-DS loves geography so much that he actually went out as "The Scrambled States of America" for Halloween-(there is a kids book called that by Laurie Keller...:goodvibes

By son loved that book! He loved the line with the soggy corn due to the state moving close to the coast. :lmao: There is also a board game of some type that is based on the book. I saw it at Barnes and Noble!:thumbsup2

AS a matter of fact we are currently planning a trip-lol-we'll be there next Tuesday-staying at AKL...:woohoo:

Wow, lucky you! Have lots of fun and make sure you report back on how your trip went!:banana:

Looking forward to hearing more...popcorn::

By son loved that book! He loved the line with the soggy corn due to the state moving close to the coast. :lmao: There is also a board game of some type that is based on the book. I saw it at Barnes and Noble!:thumbsup

Have lots of fun on your trip next week and make sure you report back on how your trip went!:banana:

mdsouth

08-15-2009, 02:08 PM

Nice installmentpopcorn::

Thanks for the positive reinforcement. I am going through our tons of photos to find ones to upload for the next installment. So check back in later for more!

brookelizabeth

08-20-2009, 01:16 AM

mdsouth

08-23-2009, 10:06 PM

I was like your DS - facinated with Cities when I was younger...when I got to college (went for computers), I stumbled across the wonderful degree of City Planning! :thumbsup2

Now, 10 years later...I work in computers! :lmao: ;)

You guys got a lot covered in Fantasyland that morning-I hope ours sounds similar in a couple weeks! :yay:

We have often talked about how DS would make a perfect city planner. I have even done a little research to try to find out what type of degree someone needed for such a job. I was thinking Civil Engineering. I didn't know there was actually a degree in City Planning.

mdsouth

08-23-2009, 10:25 PM

I last left off as we were headed towards Adventureland.

We headed towards Adventureland but never made it over there. Instead, we stopped to watch the 3:00 Celebration parade. It was quite colorful! I was impressed with how the dancers managed to keep up the pace in the sweltering heat.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/MKParade2.jpg

After the parade we decided to check out Main Street USA a bit more. Our DD wanted to pick out her Mickey Mouse ears. Prior to the trip, she had told me several times that she wanted some black Mickey Mouse ears this trip since she already had pink ones. She looked over all the options. She was overwhelmed at all the choices there were, especially now that you can design your own. She told me that it was very hard to choose. In the end, she picked the standard black Mickey Mouse ears that she had originally wanted. I have to say she looks awfully cute in her ears! My DH and son used the time to play a game of checkers. On this trip, it was really nice to take things a bit slower and enjoy the little things that make WDW so special.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0051-Copy.jpg

While the boys were playing checkers, my DD and I headed down the street in search of ice cream. Instead of ice cream, we ended up at the Main Street Barbershop. The barbershop has only two barber chairs, one just happened to be open so we got right in! DD needed a trim. She ended up getting colored gel and glitter “pixie dust”. It was fun watching her check herself out in the windows along Main Street. We then headed out of the park.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0055-Copy.jpg

We planned to take the monorail to one of the resorts and pick up a bus to Downtown Disney. At the monorail station, I asked if we could ride in front. There was one family already ahead of us, but we chose to wait for a second monorail. The first monorail to arrive was the pink one. The monorail driver got out to escort the family into the front. He was very friendly and seemed to really enjoy his role as a monorail driver. I thought to myself that he was very young compared to the other monorail drivers that I had seen. I am pretty sure it was Austin, the driver that was killed the day after we departed. What a tragedy. My heart goes out to his family, friends and co-workers.

Our monorail arrived and we were allowed to board up front. It was an amazing experience! Steve, our pilot, was both friendly and informative. It was definitely a highlight of our trip.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/FrontofMonorail.jpg
We got off the monorail at the Contemporary. As we were walking through the Contemporary, I noticed that Chef Mickey’s looked practically empty.
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0095-Copy.jpg

It was around 5:30 PM. I asked the hostess if they had any openings. She told me that they could seat us immediately! I was stunned! It worked out great for us. I had us scheduled for our last night but was afraid the time wouldn’t work out. So, we cancelled the original reservation. The kids had a blast, and our DD enjoyed the extra attention from the characters due to her hair. Minnie, especially, made a fuss over her hair.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/P1000709.jpg

After our dinner, we continued on to Downtown Disney. It was packed. We managed to make our way to the Lego store, our designated destination. Can you pick out my husband from the Lego people? I couldn't resist taking his photograph since he characteristically has the camera slung around his neck! My Dd loved the Dalmation of course!
http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/P1000724.jpg

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/P1000726.jpg

My son was in heaven! We didn’t rush him and let him take his time checking out everything in the store. He chose a city set, the Sears Tower set, and the Seattle Needle set. He had been saving his own money for a long time for this trip. Then we headed over to the section of the store where there are all the different pieces you can buy. I helped him fill the container with the maximum number of pieces possible. It is similar to packing Mr. Potato Head with as many pieces as possible.

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/P1000732.jpg

After the Lego store, DD played on the playground by the McDonald’s. Then we checked out Wonderful World of Disney and Once Upon a Toy. My DD was looking for 101 Dalmation toys. No luck! We couldn’t believe that there were no Dalmation toys to be found anywhere at WDW except for two stuffed animals. We did buy one stuffed Dalmation puppy at one of the stores in MK. You would think there would have been something else.

It was then time to call it a night. We were all exhausted.

Echo queen

08-23-2009, 11:35 PM

Her hair is so cuteprincess:, I love the lego store evan though my boys are beyond legos according to them.popcorn::

Planning fanatic mom

08-24-2009, 08:12 AM

Wonderful update! You are the first person I have ever known who has walked right into CM without an ADR especially during the summer. Good for you!!:wizard:

I'm glad you got to sit up front on the monorail We thought that was pretty cool also. Sad about Austin.:sad1:

I think DTD is always packed.:scared1:

Can't wait to hear more.

mdsouth

08-25-2009, 08:01 AM

Her hair is so cuteprincess:, I love the lego store evan though my boys are beyond legos according to them.popcorn::

We spent close to two hours in the Lego store alone! My DS spent a great deal of time planning which of the separate Lego pieces he would need in the future. For our family, it is just my son who is fasinated with Legos. However, I know many adults who enjoy them. My friend's husband is a big of a Lego nut as their son. They like the Star Wars stuff. So for them it is a bonding time between father and son. So, you never know, your boys may grow up to be men and start to play with Legos all over again. ;)Tee Hee

Wonderful update! You are the first person I have ever known who has walked right into CM without an ADR especially during the summer. Good for you!!:wizard:

I'm glad you got to sit up front on the monorail We thought that was pretty cool also. Sad about Austin.:sad1:

I think DTD is always packed.:scared1:

Can't wait to hear more.

I was certainly amazed at our fortune at Chef Mickey's. The big factor I think was that we were there close to the time it opened. Most people want to eat later - so if you are willing to eat early (around 5:30) it is much easier to get reservations at most of the restaurants. :woohoo:

Austin's family is in my prayers. I hope they are managing okay for now.

I will most likely post my next installment on Wednesday or Thursday. Now that school has started back, I am busier than I was this summer.

brookelizabeth

08-26-2009, 08:30 AM

We have often talked about how DS would make a perfect city planner. I have even done a little research to try to find out what type of degree someone needed for such a job. I was thinking Civil Engineering. I didn't know there was actually a degree in City Planning.

Without pulling out my diploma, I believe the program was called "Local and Urban Affairs" (or something along those lines). It's not very common at colleges, but it is out there! And and VERY interesting degree as it covers many different fields and how they all relate to planning. Even though I didn't end up in my field, I'm still completely fascinated with it!! And the cool thing is, you can take it in MANY directions. If he's more into the actual planning on the computers-there is that. There is the organizing of community groups, there is the actual Planner that works with the City Council and more. It's a very diverse field!

Okay-enough of my nerdom...;)

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/WDW%202009/PICT0051-Copy.jpg

I LOVE this! Isn't it wonderful to be in such a great place and take time to do these little things? It's true magic!

Your night was so great-love your DDs hair! And walking into Chef Mickey's, score!!! :thumbsup2 Your DS looks sooooo excited at the Lego store. :goodvibes

mdsouth

10-13-2009, 07:50 PM

Without pulling out my diploma, I believe the program was called "Local and Urban Affairs" (or something along those lines). It's not very common at colleges, but it is out there! And and VERY interesting degree as it covers many different fields and how they all relate to planning. Even though I didn't end up in my field, I'm still completely fascinated with it!! And the cool thing is, you can take it in MANY directions. If he's more into the actual planning on the computers-there is that. There is the organizing of community groups, there is the actual Planner that works with the City Council and more. It's a very diverse field!

Okay-enough of my nerdom...;)

Thank you so much for sharing the information with me. I will definitely check out colleges for programs such as this one.

mdsouth

10-13-2009, 07:55 PM

I just wanted to let anyone reading this know that I will be adding updates to my report. I took a long break away from the report and now plan to finish it.

I am so sorry for the long delay -- I am a teacher and with school beginning again, I found that the little time I have for myself, I used for other things. However, I really want to finish this report for my own family's record of our trip, so I am committed to finishing it. I plan on printing out the report and some of the comments to add to my scrapbook of our trip.

So, look for my new chapter tomorrow.

KatMark

10-13-2009, 09:00 PM

brookelizabeth

10-15-2009, 05:01 PM

Thank you so much for sharing the information with me. I will definitely check out colleges for programs such as this one.

You are welcome! I attended St. Cloud State here in Minnesota, and I do believe the U of M and Mankato also have the program. Mankato also has a Graduate program for it. :thumbsup2

I just wanted to let anyone reading this know that I will be adding updates to my report. I took a long break away from the report and now plan to finish it.

I am so sorry for the long delay -- I am a teacher and with school beginning again, I found that the little time I have for myself, I used for other things. However, I really want to finish this report for my own family's record of our trip, so I am committed to finishing it. I plan on printing out the report and some of the comments to add to my scrapbook of our trip.

So, look for my new chapter tomorrow.

Ah, that real life getting in the way!!! ;) No worries, we'll hang out until you are back!

PracPerfPatricia

10-15-2009, 11:37 PM

oh my another one falls to the lego store...:lmao: i know all about that...

DD's hair is adorable...

I agree with Kat...don't you just hate when real life gets in the way of Dising...:goodvibes

Looking forward to your updates...

Brooke...Urban Planning is cool...you are not a nerd...hmmm...unless you are a nerd and then that makes me a nerd too because I think all of that stuff is really fascinating...:confused3

(hmmm...now that I think about it...David asked me about the chemical formula for caffeine when we were in starbucks today (don't ask) and I knew I remember seeing it...and guess who I thought of...:rolleyes1)

Let's proudly embrace our nerdom...:woohoo:

oops sorry for the thread hijak...:blush:

Bring on the update...popcorn::

mdsouth

10-22-2009, 01:33 AM

Ah, that real life getting in the way!!! ;) No worries, we'll hang out until you are back!

Thanks for hanging in there. I won't get time to actually finish my next chapter until this weekend. But I am actually setting aside some time on Saturday to do this. My DH and kids will be busy with something and I will have a few hours to myself. :thumbsup2

mdsouth

10-22-2009, 01:37 AM

mdsouth

10-22-2009, 02:01 AM

Chapter 11 – Epcot and Le Cellier
(I will add the pictures and more later)

On Sunday, June 28th, we headed to Epcot. Once again, my hope of getting to the park early was only a dream. When we arrived at the front gate, we had trouble with one of our tickets. It was my husband’s ticket. The machine could not read it and so the CM sent us over to the main ticket window for assistance.

The line was long and I was worried about getting to our lunch reservation on time. My DH told us to go ahead and go in and he would meet us at Le Cellier. This would be our first time to dine at Le Cellier. I had read so many positive reviews that I just had to try the place for myself – especially the pretzel bread and soup! The kids and I hurried across the park and found our way to Canada.

Knowing how popular the restaurant is, I figured Gary, my DH, would be able to catch up with us as we waited for our table. Our ADR was for 11:50. We walked in and the host told me that he could seat us immediately! Unbelievable!
He even seated us without Gary being present, another surprise! So, the kids and I sat and enjoyed the bread and a drink while we continued to wait for my DH. When we first arrived most of the tables were empty. Then they started to fill up and my DH was still missing. He finally called telling me that they had had lots of trouble figuring out the ticket issue, but it was now fixed and he was inside the park. He told me to go ahead and order for him – so I did.

When he arrived he was soaking wet – water dripping down his face. The clouds had just opened up with a huge downpour as he was nearing the World Showcase. I couldn’t believe how drenched he was!

Planning fanatic mom

10-22-2009, 07:43 PM

AAHH Man! Not a good way to start the day at EPCOT. I'm sure it will get better. :thumbsup2 Kudos for the CM seating you without your whole party present. Some are pretty picky about that.

Will wait patiently for more.popcorn::

brookelizabeth

10-28-2009, 04:37 PM

Oh no!!! What a mess!

I hope the lunch more than made up for the ticket and rain troubles!!!

mdsouth

11-10-2009, 11:25 PM

I had been fighting the flu when I posted my last update. Unfortunately, I ended up with an extremely bad case of the flu and felt miserable for a week and even extremely tired since then. It really took me down - my DS and husband each had it too - we all overlapped a little bit but our worst days were on different days thank goodness. My DD, luckily, has not had it yet. So, perhaps she managed to avoid it.

mdsouth

11-10-2009, 11:43 PM

Chapter 12 – Le Cellier Review

Well, I must say, I was pleasantly surprised that Le Cellier managed to meet most my expectations. This was the first time we ate there.

The kids and I enjoyed the breadsticks as we waited for my husband to arrive. We all liked the pretzel breadsticks the best.

As for our entrees, we all liked them too. My DS ordered the Grilled Steak burger. He thought it was pretty good but prefers American cheese on his burgers instead of the cheddar cheese that he chose.
My DD who is 6 had the cheese pizza. She ate some of it but is a very picky eater so she did not finish it. Instead, she ate the breadsticks.

My DH and I both had the New York strip steak. It was cooked just like we ordered. We both enjoyed the meal. It was not our absolute favorite meal while at WDW but we enjoyed it. The lunch time worked well for us as a family.

We all ordered something different for desert. It was a treat for us to get a fancy desert. The deserts look better than they actually taste. We liked the presentations of the deserts, Chocolate Moose, seasonal Sorbet, and the Smore (I think that is what it was called).

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/DSCN0805.jpg

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/DSCN0809.jpg

http://i594.photobucket.com/albums/tt21/mdsouth/DSCN0808.jpg

My DH and I actually liked the sorbet the best but then we are not huge chocolate fans. Overall, we enjoyed our meal at Le Cellier. It was much easier to reserve a lunch time and it worked great for us.