Team Renfroe's 2nd Trip Report - 1,500 pictures, dining reviews, and DISmeets!

[alan_renfroe]

Hello, and welcome to the 2nd trip report from Team Renfroe! (Team Renfroe is actually how we refer to our family, the Renfroe family, but in my mind I see us being the team to beat on Family Feud!! Thus, Team Renfroe!) We are very much like the Clark W. Griswold family from the National Lampoon's Vacation movies. So, if I slip up and refer to myself as Clark on occasion, you'll know what I mean!

First, let me introduce you to the cast:

Myself - Alan (aka Clark) (I'm the tall, bald one)

Dear Wife - Elizabeth (aka Ellen) (she's the pretty one...not to be confused with the tall bald guy on the left)

Dear Son (age 12) - Wil (aka Rusty)

Dear Daughter (age 9) - Juliana (aka Audrey)

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/RENFROES.jpg

In this trip report, we have about 1,500 pictures to share, including dining reviews, and a massive DISmeet!

DAY ONE
Chapter 1 - It Begins! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31999391&postcount=26
Chapter 2 - Arriving at Disney! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32014504&postcount=55
Chapter 3 - Checking into Coronado Springs - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32016389&postcount=62
Chapter 4 - Getting settled at Coronado Springs - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32053337&postcount=102
Chapter 5 - Coronado Springs and Dig Site - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32053734&postcount=104
Chapter 6 - Loving Life at CSR! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32062213&postcount=124
Chapter 7 - Getting ready for dinner - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32091232&postcount=158
Chapter 8 - A boat ride to the Magic Kingdom - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32104610&postcount=180
Chapter 9 - A boat ride back to the Wilderness Lodge - part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32107012&postcount=186 - part II - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32107069&postcount=187
Chapter 10 - Dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe & the end of Day 1 - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32122615&postcount=202

DAY TWO
Chapter 1 - Heading to Disney's Hollywood Studios - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32144505&postcount=234
Chapter 2 - Having fun at Hollywood Studios - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32169183&postcount=250
Chapter 3 - The girls' morning at DHS - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32220463&postcount=293
Chapter 4 - Toy Story Mania, Star Tours, and Muppets - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32228620&postcount=301
Chapter 5 - Lunch at Sci-Fi, part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32243453&postcount=316 - part II - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32244297&postcount=317
Chapter 6 - An afternoon at the CSR Dig Site - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32263105&postcount=342
Chapter 7 - Back to DHS before dinner - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32274747&postcount=360
Chapter 8 - Heading to the Boardwalk - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32296213&postcount=383
Chapter 9 - Enjoying sunset at the Boardwalk - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32299899&postcount=391
Chapter 10 - Dinner at Flying Fish - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32402288&postcount=447
Chapter 11 - Desserts at Flying Fish and end of Day 2 - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32403329&postcount=451
Chapter 12 - DAY 2 PhotoPass pictures - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32435158&postcount=478

DAY THREE
Chapter 1 - Going to Epcot - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32477146&postcount=499
Chapter 2 - Test Track, Mission Space, and Soarin' - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32479622&postcount=507
Chapter 3 - Going to lunch at Le Cellier - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32521060&postcount=550
Chapter 4 - Le Cellier lunch review - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32554231&postcount=585
Chapter 5 - World Showcase, Part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32605559&postcount=616
Chapter 6 - The DISmeet begins! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32638307&postcount=632
Chapter 7 - More scenes from the DISmeet - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32733125&postcount=683
Chapter 8 - More scenes from the MMM - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32794438&postcount=734
Chapter 9 - A surprise character! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32899419&postcount=765
Chapter 10 - Leaving Epcot for dinner - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32915430&postcount=776
Chapter 11 - Dinner Review at 'Ohana - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32932652&postcount=789

Day 4
Chapter 1 - Going to Animal Kingdom! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33002304&postcount=833
Chapter 2 - Are you ready for the Yeti? - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33045404&postcount=851
Chapter 3 - Making our way to Kilimanjaro - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33045858&postcount=854
Chapter 4 - Scenes from Kilimanjaro Safaris - Part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33046008&postcount=855 - Part II - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33046323&postcount=857
Chapter 5 - Festival of the Lion King! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33063824&postcount=867
Chapter 6 - A Tough Bug & Dinosaur - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33064865&postcount=874
Chapter 7 - Lunch Review at Yak & Yeti - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33065414&postcount=877
Chapter 8 - A Wonderful Rainy Afternoon! - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33114111&postcount=908
Chapter 9 - Going to dinner at Narcoossee's - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33159422&postcount=930
Chapter 10 - Dinner review at Narcoossee's - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33195318&postcount=940

Day 5
Chapter 1 - Going to the Magic Kingdom - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33208671&postcount=951
Chapter 2 - Breakfast at Crystal Palace - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33208905&postcount=953
Chapter 3 - Fun at the Magic Kingdom - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33221752&postcount=968
Chapter 4 - More fun at the Magic Kingdom - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33221926&postcount=970
Chapter 5 - Heading to The Wave - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33227114&postcount=982
Chapter 6 - Lunch Review at The Wave - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33254302&postcount=1004
Chapter 7 - Girls' afternoon at The Grand Floridian - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33254712&postcount=1007
Chapter 8 - Boys Night Out - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33335488&postcount=1033
Chapter 9 - Dinner at Tony's Town Square - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33336162&postcount=1036

Day 6
Chapter 1 - Heading to Chef Mickey's - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33429970&postcount=1074
Chapter 2 - Breakfast at Chef Mickey's - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33431362&postcount=1076
Chapter 3 - Fun at Blizzard Beach - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33434336&postcount=1080
Chapter 4 - More Waterpark Fun - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33445821&postcount=1090
Chapter 5 - Going to dinner at California Grill - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33932765&postcount=1132
Chapter 6 - Dinner at California Grill - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33934020&postcount=1138

Day 7
Chapter 1 - Enjoying a morning at Coronado Springs - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34033500&postcount=1161
Chapter 2 - Fun at Epcot - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34102751&postcount=1176
Chapter 3 - Lunch at Coral Reef - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34146914&postcount=1188
Chapter 4 - Afternoon at Epcot - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34221716&postcount=1201
Chapter 5 - Going to the Yachtsman - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34293234&postcount=1211
Chapter 6 - Dinner at Yachtsman Steakhouse - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34293982&postcount=1212

Day 8
Chapter 1 - Breakfast at Maya Grill - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34381692&postcount=1234
Chapter 2 - Star Wars Weekend at Disney's Hollywood Studios! (Coming up next)

Thanks for reading!

Alan

[NMW]

subscribing. we were down from 5/16-5/23

[mickeystoontown]

Hi Griswolds! I always say that we are the Griswolds too. We have driven to WDW 13 times (811 miles one way) and every time, there are lots of references to Rusty, Audrey, Ellen and Clark. Just gotta love those classic movies.

I often say trip reports and pictures are what keep me sane until our next WDW vacation. So, thanks for your contribution to my sanity.:rotfl:

[IlovemythreeC's]

We are so excited to begin your new TR. My son and I enjoyed your TR so much last summer ~ we are so thrilled to read all about your adventures.

You have a BEAUTIFUL family:)

Looking so forward to your report:goodvibes

[binkytell]

joining in if i may, looking forward to it:thumbsup2

[alan_renfroe]

subscribing. we were down from 5/16-5/23

Cool! Did it rain on you the entire time? I think we were extremely lucky...the weather really didn't interfere with our plans very much at all.

Hi Griswolds! I always say that we are the Griswolds too. We have driven to WDW 13 times (811 miles one way) and every time, there are lots of references to Rusty, Audrey, Ellen and Clark. Just gotta love those classic movies.

I often say trip reports and pictures are what keep me sane until our next WDW vacation. So, thanks for your contribution to my sanity.:rotfl:

Gotta love the Griswolds! Clark just wants everyone to be happy, right? Well, that's me! Unfortunately, everything doesn't always go quite as it is planned now does it? :)

The only thing that keeps me from having the post-vacation blues is knowing that I will have fun doing this trip report! Thanks for reading!



We are so excited to begin your new TR. My son and I enjoyed your TR so much last summer ~ we are so thrilled to read all about your adventures.

You have a BEAUTIFUL family:)

Looking so forward to your report:goodvibes

Awww...thanks very much! We had such a great time putting that trip report together last year that we KNEW we were going to do another one this year! That's why we took soooo many pictures! Welcome aboard, and I hope you will enjoy the ride.

joining in if i may, looking forward to it:thumbsup2

Please, join in! Glad to have you along!

[TigerKat]

I'm here!!!!!!!:wave2:

[shannon47142]

I'm here for another exciting trip report read!!!:cool1:

[disneyhockeymad]

yay I'm onboard :)

[mickeystoontown]

[QUOTE=alan_renfroe;31995419]

Gotta love the Griswolds! Clark just wants everyone to be happy, right? Well, that's me! Unfortunately, everything doesn't always go quite as it is planned now does it? :)

The only thing that keeps me from having the post-vacation blues is knowing that I will have fun doing this trip report! Thanks for reading!

QUOTE]


Remember the scene where they are lost and he asks for directions and the guy says something like "you don't want to ask me because I'm not even from here"? Well, we got turned around in Mobile, Alabama and after driving around for a half hour, I decided to stop at a gas station and get directions. I told my husband if the person behind the counter says "you don't want to ask me because I'm not even from here", I was gonna scream. You'll never guess what she said. Yep, "I'm not from here". It was too funny!

The only way I can keep from having post vacation blues is to book another WDW trip and posting on the Disboards.;)

[inkedupmomma]

subbed! great start!

[Bibbidi]

Yeah--I am so glad you've started the report. Love the family photo. Your son looks so much older this year.

[MaryAz]

I'm in-great to meet you!

[CRdisMom]

I'm here too! Can't wait to hear about your adventures.

[NMW]

Although the rain was horrible, it did not really effect our park touring plans. It did however, effect our night time plans. For example, we cancelled our California Grill reservations on Wed and dined at the Yachtsman at our hotel. This was our 2nd meal there on the trip. We also cancelled our Rose and Crown dinner for the Cape May Cafe in the BC. We did this because we were staying at the YC and therefore we could walk without getting rained on again. All in all we had a great time but felt dissapointed that there was simply so much rain. On a scale of 1-10 we would rate our trip an 8, but it would be a 10 without the rain.

[englishrose47]

Subbing and reading

[serene56]

Wow- Has a whole year passed since you got back last time?

oh mi gawd--

I loved your trip report last time-- cant wait to hear about this one

[Luis Rodriguez]

Hi Alan,

Subscribing!!

Wonderful photo at your first post. Said it before, say it now; You have a beautiful family!

Regards,

Luis

[karajeboo]

I'm here! Let the partay begin!!!!!

[LuckyDuck]

I can't wait to read all about your Disney adventure this year!

Your last TR was the very first one I read when I first started lurking on the Dis boards, and one of the best I've ever come across. So excited for another! :cheer2:

[HG_MOM]

I lurked through your last report...but I am on board for this one!
We got home from Disney the week before you left, so I am anxious to see how the weeks compared!!

[alan_renfroe]

I'm here!!!!!!!:wave2:

Hi Kathy! :wave2: Welcome aboard!

I'm here for another exciting trip report read!!!:cool1:

Cool! Glad to have you along.

yay I'm onboard :)

Yay! disneyhockeymad is here! Good to see you!


Remember the scene where they are lost and he asks for directions and the guy says something like "you don't want to ask me because I'm not even from here"? Well, we got turned around in Mobile, Alabama and after driving around for a half hour, I decided to stop at a gas station and get directions. I told my husband if the person behind the counter says "you don't want to ask me because I'm not even from here", I was gonna scream. You'll never guess what she said. Yep, "I'm not from here". It was too funny!

The only way I can keep from having post vacation blues is to book another WDW trip and posting on the Disboards.;)

I LOVE that scene! We were talking about that scene on this trip! We were talking about when Clark first pulls up to the guys to ask for directions and says, "Hey, what it is, homes?" hahahaha! I love it when the guy tells him, "Okay, you see down there that sign where it says rib tips? Well, f that, you don't wanna go that way." LOVE THAT! And finally, the guy confesses, "Man, I ain't even from here...I'm from Buffalo!" :rotfl2: (One of my absolute favorite movies of all TIME!)

subbed! great start!

YAY!! :cool1: inkedupmomma is here! :wave2:

Yeah--I am so glad you've started the report. Love the family photo. Your son looks so much older this year.

Aww, thanks. Doesn't DS look a LOT older this year? He acts a lot differently also. Last year, we had this mild-mannered, well-behaved 11-yr-old. This year, we have a pre-pubescent hormonal pre-teen who hates us!

I'm in-great to meet you! Hi Mary! It was great to meet you and your DH. Wish you guys could have joined us at the R&C for a Guiness.

I'm here too! Can't wait to hear about your adventures.

We have adventures o' plenty!

Although the rain was horrible, it did not really effect our park touring plans. It did however, effect our night time plans. For example, we cancelled our California Grill reservations on Wed and dined at the Yachtsman at our hotel. This was our 2nd meal there on the trip. We also cancelled our Rose and Crown dinner for the Cape May Cafe in the BC. We did this because we were staying at the YC and therefore we could walk without getting rained on again. All in all we had a great time but felt dissapointed that there was simply so much rain. On a scale of 1-10 we would rate our trip an 8, but it would be a 10 without the rain.

I hear ya. It only interfered with our plans on one day...but I don't want to get ahead of myself.

[alan_renfroe]

Subbing and reading

Hi Rosie! Welcome aboard!

Wow- Has a whole year passed since you got back last time?

oh mi gawd--

I loved your trip report last time-- cant wait to hear about this one

Can you believe it? Yep, it has been a whole year. To us, it has seemed like FOREVAH! Thanks for joining us!

Hi Alan,

Subscribing!!

Wonderful photo at your first post. Said it before, say it now; You have a beautiful family!

Regards,

Luis

Yay! Glad you are here, Luis! Thanks for the comments about my family. I think they are pretty special.

I'm here! Let the partay begin!!!!!

Yay! Kara is here!!! :wave2: Glad you found my report.

I can't wait to read all about your Disney adventure this year!

Your last TR was the very first one I read when I first started lurking on the Dis boards, and one of the best I've ever come across. So excited for another! :cheer2:

Cool! Welcome aboard, LuckyDuck.

I lurked through your last report...but I am on board for this one!
We got home from Disney the week before you left, so I am anxious to see how the weeks compared!!

Yay! No more lurky-loo! Feel free to make comments along the way. With 1,500 pictures, this report is going to take a while!

Chapter 1 is on the way.

Alan

[karajeboo]

Yay! Kara is here!!! :wave2: Glad you found my report.

Alan

How could I NOT find it? I saw it plastered on billboards the whole way up I-4 on my way home!!!! ;)

[clomahony]

Hi Alan & Family,

It was great meeting you at the Dis meet at Epcot. I'm the mom who was traveling with two pre-schoolers so generally found behind the double stroller. It was wonderful finally meeting so many Diser's in real life.

I'm looking forward to reading your trip report especially since your last one was fantastic. :worship:

[alan_renfroe]

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE DAY

On the Thursday night before we departed, we packed up everything in our Honda Odyssey and went to bed relatively early so we could get up early on Friday and take off as soon as possible. Orlando is about a 10 1/2 hour drive from our home in Jacksonville, Alabama.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-001.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-002.jpg

We had to spend a little extra time with our dog, Truman. We would not be seeing him for 8 days!!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-003.jpg

Before going to bed, we dressed the children in clothes that would be comfortable to sleep in, but that they could also wear to travel in on Friday.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-004.jpg

Fortunately, I was able to go to sleep pretty early. However, I woke up at 3am....and was too excited to go back to sleep! I turned on the TV for a while, watched the news and the weather, then finally about 4am, I decided to wake everyone up and get going! Maybe we could beat the morning rush hour in Atlanta!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-005.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-006.jpg

We were making good time until we got to Atlanta. (We live in the Central Time Zone, so we lose an hour when we travel to Georgia and Florida.) We were just getting to the outskirts of Atlanta at sunrise.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-007.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-008.jpg

(By the way, the above pictures are courtesy of our dear daughter, Juliana! She asked for a digital camera this year for Christmas, so she could take her OWN pictures at WDW this year. So, at least half of the pictures you'll see in this trip report are from our 9-year-old! She's quite a photographer!)

So we get almost to Atlanta when the traffic starts getting heavy....then heavier...then heavier...and eventually standstill traffic. An accident was blocking five lanes of traffic on one of the main Interstates coming into the city. We sat in gridlock for over an hour. :headache:

Finally, things were cleared up and we were once again on our way. We completely bypassed breakfast because of the traffic...and just ate some snacks we had packed for the trip. However, by noon, we were all starving. We stopped in Tifton, Georgia at a Chick-Fil-A.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-009.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-010.jpg

(This will be the LAST meal I mention without having pictures of the food! Lots and lots of yummy food pictures!)

Anyway, we got a full tank of gas and got back on the Interstate. Soon, we were in the state of Florida! :cool1:

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-011.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-012.jpg

Coming up in the next chapter: we arrive at Disney World and check in at Coronado Springs Resort!

[MaryAz]

Originally Posted by MaryAz
I'm in-great to meet you!

Hi Mary! It was great to meet you and your DH. Wish you guys could have joined us at the R&C for a Guiness.

We were there-outside. Did not realize that everyone was inside until we left. Oh well.

[NotSoEvilStepmother]

I'm jumping in for the ride. Sounds like this'll be a very interesting trip.

[kschafer]

Ooh ooh...I can't believe I found this so quickly. I lurked around on last years TR and I'm looking forward to tons more pics of your lovely family and of course the food porn!

[Luis Rodriguez]

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE DAY

We had to spend a little extra time with our dog, Truman. We would not be seeing him for 8 days!!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-003.jpg



Well, as a dog belonging to a family that label themselves as "The Griswolds", I'm pretty sure he was very glad about staying at home!! :)

[ckdsnynt]

Hi Griswolds! I always say that we are the Griswolds too. We have driven to WDW 13 times (811 miles one way) and every time, there are lots of references to Rusty, Audrey, Ellen and Clark. Just gotta love those classic movies.

I often say trip reports and pictures are what keep me sane until our next WDW vacation. So, thanks for your contribution to my sanity.:rotfl:

I couldn't agree with you more about the pictures! I have never done a trip report but enjoy reading everyone elses. But my pictures do help me make it to the next WDW trip!

[ckdsnynt]

Alan:
I'm in!
My favorite parts so far:
the pictures
the report itself
seeing the names of the people I meet at the May Meet and having a face to put with their names!
Love it all!

[2xcited2sleep]

Hurrah! You started!! :yay::yay: And a great start it is!

Your kids look adorably sleepy with just the right amount of excitement at 4am!

:headache: to the accident blocking five lanes of traffic! Oy vey!!

Julianna is quite a photographer- looking forward to more of her photos and to "Rusty's" food reviews! :thumbsup2

Very relieved to see in some of your replies that rain didn't interfere too badly. :)

Can't wait for more. popcorn::

[dizneeat]

Okay, I made it over here and it's only page 3! Relief!!! :lmao:

I will sit patiently here and wait for your next installment! It's been fun so far! :goodvibes

[Bibbidi]

Alan, what kind of dog do you have? He is soooo cute.

Too bad about the traffic holdup in Atlanta. When we drive we have to go through there as well, but usually we hit Atlanta in the middle of the day since we are coming from Cincinnati. My DH has made sure though that I can reroute us off highways when there are traffic jams due to accidents. I am his personal GPS since he won't just buy one of his own. :rolleyes1

[englishrose47]

Morning Alan !!! Last night I folded my MMM shirt after washing it and just stood there reading all the names and remembering ! :cloud9:When the time comes to all who don't know I am the Tiara wearing ol' gal!!:lmao:
I have also started my TR, but so far no pix othr than one from last year ! Once my friend helps me I too will have lots of FOOD pix !:rotfl2: I a anxiously waiting the next update !!

[Ellwood]

Hi Alan, Glad to see that you started your trip report. I lurked on your previous reports and enjoyed them very much!! Figured I would bite the bullet, and actually post on this one :) We were there about the same time that you were. The 16th to the 25th. Had a great time, despite the rain..

[Mirb1214]

I was SO excited to see you were starting a new trip report. Yours from last year was the first ever report I read on the DIS. I remembered you being from AL in your last report but I just realized you're from Jacksonville. I live in White Plains; we're practically neighbors. I can't wait to read more of your trip. We're heading down June 8-12 and again Oct 10-17 so I will be looking for some good tips.

[karajeboo]

Great start Alan! Hoping to beat rush hour in Atlanta??? :rotfl2: Even minimal traffic in Atlanta is heavy!!!!! Silly man!

[CRdisMom]

my silly sister lives in Atlanta. She says it takes her 1 and half to get to work every morning. That just crossing town. Yikes! Sorry about the delay. Love the pictures too!

[mickeystoontown]

Thank goodness you made it through Atlanta. My daughter goes to missionary college in Cleveland, Georgia and the only way to get there is either straight through Atlanta or the loop around Atlanta....both of which are horrible. It's like her leader said..."pick your poison" when traveling Atlanta.

[podsnel]

How could I NOT find it? I saw it plastered on billboards the whole way up I-4 on my way home!!!! ;)

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: OMG, Kara, you are sooo funny all the time!!

Hi Team Renfroe! Very excited to read about your adventures!! I can't beliee you're already on PAGE 3!!!!:scared1:

[Jeanine3kids]

Great start Alan. I wish I had a 10 hour drive to disney, unfortunately it is more like 24. Good Luck on the hot Dog Business If I lived in your area I would be a really good customer Hot Dogs are DS 7 favorite food.

[UsNew2Disney2008]

Hey Alan - great trip report! Can't wait to read more! :thumbsup2

[M & E love WDW]

Thanks TEAM RENFROE. It's so good of you to share your vacation. I am in the pre-planning stages and we will be staying at CSR too. Thanks again.

[KatMark]

Alan, I'm here. I'm here! I'm so glad I found this before you got too far. As you know, I'm living my vacation through your report since we had to cancel our trip to the CSR/Disney this year. I can't wait to read more and see all your pictures (I hope you'll do a review on the CSR thread too!).

:goodvibes

[ckdsnynt]

Morning Alan !!! Last night I folded my MMM shirt after washing it and just stood there reading all the names and remembering ! :cloud9:When the time comes to all who don't know I am the Tiara wearing ol' gal!!:lmao:
I have also started my TR, but so far no pix othr than one from last year ! Once my friend helps me I too will have lots of FOOD pix !:rotfl2: I a anxiously waiting the next update !!

Hey, Rosie! I did laundy this weekend and as i hung my shirts on the line to dry, I almost cried thinking about all the new friends and how it might be a whole year before we could get together again! I kept the tiara out tho! never know just when an opportunity might come along to wear that, ya know?:lmao: No TR for me, not enough pictures and we didn't do enough to report on. Still too new to all this I guess. maybe next time.

[alan_renfroe]

Originally Posted by MaryAz
I'm in-great to meet you!

Hi Mary! It was great to meet you and your DH. Wish you guys could have joined us at the R&C for a Guiness.

We were there-outside. Did not realize that everyone was inside until we left. Oh well.

Oh, that stinks. It was SOOO crowded....I guess I didn't expect it to be that crowded at 3:30 in the afternoon. Anyway, it was a great pleasure to meet you all!

I'm jumping in for the ride. Sounds like this'll be a very interesting trip.

Cool! Hop on!

Ooh ooh...I can't believe I found this so quickly. I lurked around on last years TR and I'm looking forward to tons more pics of your lovely family and of course the food porn!

Welcome out of lurkdom!! So glad you are joining us...and I promise LOTS of food porn!

Well, as a dog belonging to a family that label themselves as "The Griswolds", I'm pretty sure he was very glad about staying at home!! :)

Hahahaha....good call, Luis. I'm sure Truman was MUCH safer at home! We are fortunate that we have family and friends who looked out for him, took him for walks, played with him, etc., while we were gone. We certainly did MISS him though! :love:

[pmama]

:cool1: Yeah TR started!! Can't wait to read more!:banana:

[alan_renfroe]

Alan:
I'm in!
My favorite parts so far:
the pictures
the report itself
seeing the names of the people I meet at the May Meet and having a face to put with their names!
Love it all!

Awww..thanks, CK! It certainly was nice to put names and faces together at the meet, wasn't it?

Hurrah! You started!! :yay::yay: And a great start it is!

Your kids look adorably sleepy with just the right amount of excitement at 4am!

:headache: to the accident blocking five lanes of traffic! Oy vey!!

Julianna is quite a photographer- looking forward to more of her photos and to "Rusty's" food reviews! :thumbsup2

Very relieved to see in some of your replies that rain didn't interfere too badly. :)

Can't wait for more. popcorn::

Yay! Christine is here!

Hahaha...I LOVE that picture of the kids at 4am...especially Wil. Can you tell it was all he could do to come up with a smile?

Yeah, Atlanta traffic is ALWAYS a nightmare. More on that later.

I think you'll find Juliana's pictures to be better than Wil's food reviews on this trip! For some reason, the boy just wasn't that hungry most of the time.

Okay, I made it over here and it's only page 3! Relief!!! :lmao:

I will sit patiently here and wait for your next installment! It's been fun so far! :goodvibes

Hey! Welcome aboard! Next installment is on its way...I promise!

Alan, what kind of dog do you have? He is soooo cute.

Too bad about the traffic holdup in Atlanta. When we drive we have to go through there as well, but usually we hit Atlanta in the middle of the day since we are coming from Cincinnati. My DH has made sure though that I can reroute us off highways when there are traffic jams due to accidents. I am his personal GPS since he won't just buy one of his own. :rolleyes1

Thanks, Bibbidi. He is a Silky Terrior (or at least we think he is mostly silky.) He is actually a shelter dog that we adopted, and he is absolutely THE best pet anyone could ever ask for. I was never a "dog person" but Truman won my heart. What a GREAT dog!

Your hubby is a SMART man! Knowing the way around Atlanta without using Interstates is a big help.

Morning Alan !!! Last night I folded my MMM shirt after washing it and just stood there reading all the names and remembering ! :cloud9:When the time comes to all who don't know I am the Tiara wearing ol' gal!!:lmao:
I have also started my TR, but so far no pix othr than one from last year ! Once my friend helps me I too will have lots of FOOD pix !:rotfl2: I a anxiously waiting the next update !!

Hi Rosie! That's funny that you are getting all sentimental about folding a t-shirt! We did have fun though. I am enjoying your TR so far!

Hi Alan, Glad to see that you started your trip report. I lurked on your previous reports and enjoyed them very much!! Figured I would bite the bullet, and actually post on this one :) We were there about the same time that you were. The 16th to the 25th. Had a great time, despite the rain..

Cool! Now you are OUT of lurkdom and decided to join the Griswolds! Good for you guys for having fun in spite of the rain. So did we!!!

Glad to have you along for the ride.

I was SO excited to see you were starting a new trip report. Yours from last year was the first ever report I read on the DIS. I remembered you being from AL in your last report but I just realized you're from Jacksonville. I live in White Plains; we're practically neighbors. I can't wait to read more of your trip. We're heading down June 8-12 and again Oct 10-17 so I will be looking for some good tips.

Oh you are KIDDING? I can't believe someone is on the DISboards from White Plains! How cool is that! You're right...we ARE practically neighbors! In fact, we always go over the mountain through White Plains to Heflin to get on the Interstate...so we probably passed near your home on the morning we left!

Great start Alan! Hoping to beat rush hour in Atlanta??? :rotfl2: Even minimal traffic in Atlanta is heavy!!!!! Silly man!

Thanks, Kara! Yeah, I don't WHAT I was thinking. Atlanta and minimal traffic do not belong in the same sentence! More on that in my comment below.

my silly sister lives in Atlanta. She says it takes her 1 and half to get to work every morning. That just crossing town. Yikes! Sorry about the delay. Love the pictures too!

I've gotta tell ya....I have this Love/Hate relationship with the city of Atlanta. First of all, I was born there and consider myself to be from there. When the Olympics were there in 1996, I was in heaven!!! IT was so cool! My favorite NFL team is the Falcons, my favorite baseball team is the Braves, etc. HOWEVER, within the past few years, Atlanta seems to have become almost impassible. Can't go through downtown...can't go on 285....it has become really difficult to get around the city. I still LOVE Atlanta, but I hate having to pass through on the way to somewhere else.

Thank goodness you made it through Atlanta. My daughter goes to missionary college in Cleveland, Georgia and the only way to get there is either straight through Atlanta or the loop around Atlanta....both of which are horrible. It's like her leader said..."pick your poison" when traveling Atlanta.


Pick your poison is exactly right. I recently had a business trip to Chapel Hill, NC, and I contemplated going through Knoxville and down through Chattanooga just to avoid having to go through Atlanta.

[alan_renfroe]

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: OMG, Kara, you are sooo funny all the time!!

Hi Team Renfroe! Very excited to read about your adventures!! I can't beliee you're already on PAGE 3!!!!:scared1:

I KNOW! Geeeeshh....I must have picked up some extra readers with those billboards along I-4!!!

Great start Alan. I wish I had a 10 hour drive to disney, unfortunately it is more like 24. Good Luck on the hot Dog Business If I lived in your area I would be a really good customer Hot Dogs are DS 7 favorite food.

It is nice to know that if we have the fundage that "The World" is reachable by car in one day!! (Our issue is with having said fundage!)

Thanks for the good wishes on the hot dog restaurant! Things are moving very quickly. We paid the deposit on the lease this week and took out our liability insurance policy. There's no going back now!

Hey Alan - great trip report! Can't wait to read more! :thumbsup2

Thanks! Great to have you along for the ride! Next chapter is coming up.

Thanks TEAM RENFROE. It's so good of you to share your vacation. I am in the pre-planning stages and we will be staying at CSR too. Thanks again.

Oh, we LOVE sharing our vacation with readers here on the DIS! It is a therapeutic way of reliving the adventure and getting back to the real world! Glad to have you along! We've got TONS of CSR pics to share.

Alan, I'm here. I'm here! I'm so glad I found this before you got too far. As you know, I'm living my vacation through your report since we had to cancel our trip to the CSR/Disney this year. I can't wait to read more and see all your pictures (I hope you'll do a review on the CSR thread too!).

:goodvibes

YAY! Kathy is here!! As I stated above, I took a TON of CSR pics this year. I will be posting them on the CSR threads as well, but not before they are revealed in the trip report!

Hey, Rosie! I did laundy this weekend and as i hung my shirts on the line to dry, I almost cried thinking about all the new friends and how it might be a whole year before we could get together again! I kept the tiara out tho! never know just when an opportunity might come along to wear that, ya know?:lmao: No TR for me, not enough pictures and we didn't do enough to report on. Still too new to all this I guess. maybe next time.

No! No tears....just great memories!! Sorry you all didn't get enough pics on this trip, but under the circumstances it is understandable. Well, maybe you can just enjoy OUR pictures!

:cool1: Yeah TR started!! Can't wait to read more!:banana:

Yay!! pmama is here also!! It is so cool when all of your DIS friends come together on one thread! Welcome aboard. By the way, I can't wait to read your Disneyland trip report also.

[acellison]

I loved your last report:thumbsup2
Can't wait for more!

[valleygirl]

Hi Alan,
I loved your first trip report and have been waiting for the second. We leave tomorrow for St. Augustine and then arrive at CSR on June 2nd. Can't wait to get there and can't wait to read about the rest of your trip!
Maura

[alan_renfroe]

I loved your last report:thumbsup2
Can't wait for more!

Thanks very much! Chapter 2 is coming up.

[alan_renfroe]

Okay, so when we last left off, we were just getting into the state of Florida. Normally, we like to stop at the rest stop at the state line. (I'm a sucker for that free orange juice and grapefruit juice!) But not this year. We decided we didn't want to waste any time getting to Disney World!!

Our Honda Odyssey has a six disc c.d. player and will play mp3s. Nice! I made several mp3 discs in the weeks leading up to the trip....so I had TONS of tunes from which to chose. The other family members all had their own forms of entertainment. For Elizabeth, it was her books, her laptop, and her beauty sleep! For Wil, it was his mp3 player and his cell phone for texting friends back home. For Juliana, it was her Nintendo DS or the dvd player with her own headphones. That meant I had full control of the c.d. player in the Odyssey!!! I took full advantage of this opportunity to listen to every guilty pleasure song known to a child of the 80s like myself!! I had made one c.d. in particular that had 170 mp3s from the year 1984!! SWEET!! Can you say Van Halen, Billy Idol, The Cars, Culture Club, Huey Lewis & The News, Rick Springfield, Prince, Madonna, Twisted Sister, and Z.Z. Top? WOOHOO!! :cool1: This dad is on vacation TOO!

But I digress....

Anyway, the tunes kept me humming along until before you know it, we were on the Florida Turnpike.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-013.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-014.jpg

And suddenly.....we start to see THE signs!!!

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There it is!! Just ahead!!! Whoa kids....whoa kids!!

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http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-020.jpg

and, of course, Juliana gets the award for capturing the best picture of THE sign!!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-021.jpg

So, we've made it to Disney World!! Now it's time to make our way to Coronado Springs Resort.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-022.jpg

I can see it in the distance!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-023.jpg

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and there it is!!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-026.jpg

Coming up next....a worry-free check in at Coronado Springs and our first snack credits!!

[podsnel]

Cool tunes, Mr. Thong wearing organizer. I listened to them in 1984, too- when I was in COLLEGE!:rolleyes:

We stopped at CS on the way to AKV on the ME- it looked really nice! Did Kara get you an upgrade?:rotfl::thumbsup2

[englishrose47]

Just keeping up with the TR !! Julianna ... Great Pix of the SIGN!!!!!

[dvc4life]

Wow, what a report so far. Followed you from the "DisMoms Gone Wild" report. What fun you guys must have had. :thumbsup2

You seem to be alot like my DH, only he wouldn't have waited an hour to get everyone up like you did. :rotfl2: He gets up at 2 am and we are pulling out of the garage at 2:20. We don't stop, except for gas and potty stops, until we hit Atlanta, GA and we live in the middle of Iowa! What a day's drive that is.

I will say we hate driving through Atlanta! Hate it, hate it, hate it. Last time we drove down in March 2008 was when the tornado went through downtown :scared1: and we were driving in it :scared1:. But no matter what it seems you better plan on it taking at least 2 hours to get through Atlanta. I would love to know the route around Atlanta on side roads just to avoid that city.

Love the sound of your CD music. I lived through that era too! Ahhhhh, the 80's.

Can't wait for more of the Griswold's do Disney report!

[Jeanine3kids]

Great update!!!!!!!!!!!!

[TigerKat]

I don't want to say how old I was for those 80's tunes...:rolleyes1

No matter how many times I see the WDW welcome signs I get teary eyed!:goodvibes

Great update Alan!:thumbsup2

[alan_renfroe]

Cool tunes, Mr. Thong wearing organizer. I listened to them in 1984, too- when I was in COLLEGE!:rolleyes:

We stopped at CS on the way to AKV on the ME- it looked really nice! Did Kara get you an upgrade?:rotfl::thumbsup2

Okay...so you were in college! I was ALMOST in college myself! It was my senior year in high school! (way before my thong-wearing, Brazilian-loving days.) ;)

Just keeping up with the TR !! Julianna ... Great Pix of the SIGN!!!!!

Thanks Rosie!

Wow, what a report so far. Followed you from the "DisMoms Gone Wild" report. What fun you guys must have had. :thumbsup2

You seem to be alot like my DH, only he wouldn't have waited an hour to get everyone up like you did. :rotfl2: He gets up at 2 am and we are pulling out of the garage at 2:20. We don't stop, except for gas and potty stops, until we hit Atlanta, GA and we live in the middle of Iowa! What a day's drive that is.

I will say we hate driving through Atlanta! Hate it, hate it, hate it. Last time we drove down in March 2008 was when the tornado went through downtown :scared1: and we were driving in it :scared1:. But no matter what it seems you better plan on it taking at least 2 hours to get through Atlanta. I would love to know the route around Atlanta on side roads just to avoid that city.

Love the sound of your CD music. I lived through that era too! Ahhhhh, the 80's.

Can't wait for more of the Griswold's do Disney report!

Hahaha...I can tell you hubby is a Griswold as well! Making good time to Atlanta!! :rotfl2:

Yes, how often do you really get a chance to listen to songs from the SAME YEAR? I mean, sure, we have satelite radio these days....but you only get the "all 80s" channel....this was the "1984" channel specifically!!! How cool is that? Listening to those songs all together really took me on a little sentimental journey! Back to the days when I had HAIR and a 28 inch waist. Ahhh...if I only knew THEN what I know NOW!

Great update!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks! Another update is coming soon.

I don't want to say how old I was for those 80's tunes...:rolleyes1

No matter how many times I see the WDW welcome signs I get teary eyed!:goodvibes

Great update Alan!:thumbsup2

Thanks, Kathy! I love to see that sign also! Just looking at the pictures brings back the excitement of that moment!

[alan_renfroe]

We stayed at Coronado Springs Resort last year on our very first trip to Disney World and loved, loved, LOVED it! This year, we had originally intended to stay at the Pop Century to save a little money. However, when I started reading about the refurbished rooms at CSR, and the addition of the queen-sized beds, I had to check into upgrading. As it turned out, I could upgrade from Pop Century to CSR for about $450. I thought it was well worth the upgrade, all things considered.

Anyway, we all agreed that if we had arrived at Disney World and had to pass by Coronado Springs without checking in, we would have been sad. CSR is our Disney home, for sure!!

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We had arrived! Now it was time to get out of the vehicle and check in!

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We didn't have to wait in a line at all! We literally walked straight up to the registration counter and checked in. Our castmember welcomed us "home" and wished us a Happy 15th Anniversary! (Oh....I guess I should have mentioned that.....Dear Wife and I were celebrating the 15th Anniversary of our first date....way back in 1994!) She gave us "Happy Anniversary" pins and gave the kids "we're celebrating!" pins.

The only pre-request we had made was that we wanted one of the refurbished rooms with the queen-sized beds. As our cast member was checking us in, I asked her, "did we get one of the refurbished rooms?" She said, "You sure did!" You'll be in building #4. (I looked over to Elizabeth and said, "that's the Casitas! Cool!") Yep, it was in the Casitas area. Last time, we were in the Ranchos area. We liked it very much, but we were sort of hoping to get a room in the Casitas area this time. So, now I'm happy before I even stepped foot into our room!

By this time, it was around 3:30 or so. We had lunch around noon and we didn't have dinner scheduled until 8:05pm at the Whispering Canyon Cafe. So, we decided we should probably use a snack credit to hold us over until dinner. Since we were already in El Centro (CSR's main building), we thought we would go into Cafe Rix for a snack and our complimentary refillable resort mugs.

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Those HUGE muffins and cookies were considered snack credits on the dining plan! Woohoo! The kids both got chocolate chip muffins, while Elizabeth and I got two big cookies.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-039.jpg

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Then it was time to go find our new home for the next week.

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Our building was THIS close to Bus Stop #2! We had a very short walk each day to the bus stop.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-044.jpg

Coming up next - we check out our beautifully refurbish room, then the kids and I go swimming while Elizabeth unpacks and unwinds!

[NWOhioAngela]

I think you just convinced me to upgrade from Pop to Coronado.

[Michelle_and_Aaron]

Great start to your TR Alan! I can't wait to read more of your adventures!

[Sweetpeasmommy]

Hi Alan! So happy to see you are posting your trip and I'm catching the beginning of it:yay:! We were at WDW at the same time (May 16-24) and we actually caught a glimpse of you all in Animal Kingdom. Would've said hi but you were high-tailin' it to (Dinosaur? Everest? Eat? LOL!) somewhere fast! Every one of you had a smile on your face :) ~ despite the rain! So here's that HI! Looking forward to your new trip report! ~ Tara

[brookelizabeth]

A day late and already 5 pages! :eek: :goodvibes
I haven't gotten caught up yet, but looking forward to reading it all!

[brookelizabeth]

Caught up now-thanks for the quick links!
Loved that you could rock out during the drive!! Sounds like a REALLY great CD. I love me some 80s rock.

I loved all the pics up until the resort, I could feel the excitement building and building. That is a fantastic picture of the WDW sign! :thumbsup2

[ckdsnynt]

Okay Alan,now I understand how you came out with 1500 pics! I came home with 105 - we took so few because we did so little this trip (sickos in the family :sad2:)
I may need to borrow Julianna for my next trip. She takes awesome pictures!
CSR looks fabulous! Nice resort and the food doesn't look bad either!:thumbsup2

I guess I am the only person here that doesn't mind driving through Atlanta :confused3 It's been a few years since I was there but when I go through there it is usually on my way to relatives and a trip to the beach and when we hit Atlanta, it means we only have 4 more hours to drive that day! Maybe that's why I don't mind Atlanta - after you've driven 18 hours, 4 hours seems like you're almost there:cool1:
Enjoying the report so far Alan! Now when are we planning another one?:rotfl2:

[2xcited2sleep]

You've arrived! Now everyone's looking a little more awake and excited! ;) Happy Anniversary! Can't wait to hear if your buttons garnered you any special treats! I hope so!! Hurrah for a refurbbed room AND one close to the bus stop! Things are off to a good start! :thumbsup2

[dvc4life]

Just seeing your pictures is making me so excited!!!!! We leave in 8 days!!!!! So I need more pictures, quickly!!!! :rotfl2:

[CRdisMom]

love TR's the always give me motivation to keep going. I'm only a year and half away from our next trip. Keep the pictures coming

[lindseynleah]

so excited to read this report!! I really enjoyed your TR from last time and was wondering when a new one would come along!!!! :) Great start and can't wait to read more...by the way..your pics are beautiful!!!! :)

[mickeystoontown]

Yeah! You're finally there!

[crocko]

Managed to find this TR just now....glad I made it while your are still on "Day 1" of your trip. Look forward to the rest!

(by the way, love that they have a store (I believe) called Panchito's! I like seeing some of the lesser-known characters get billing when the theme fits.

[nassau812]

Hi Alan, read your last trip report and can't wait to hear how this trip went. We live in Jacksonville, FL and I felt bad for ya'll being at Disney will all the rain. It is still raining everyday just not ALL day.

[jmamom]

Joining in, sounds like a fun TR!:goodvibes

[Kellyh123]

It's going to be quite a long time until we go again. I feel like I am beginning a trip reading right along with you! Thanks!

[Cinderelly5507]

Great start! I can't wait for the food porn!! :thumbsup2

[Kalamazoo Dutchman]

Hi Alan,

It's been a while since I chimed in but letting you we're still along for the ride. As, for the drive, thank goodness for portable DVD's and Mp3 players (with headphones) for long trips. Keeping the kids entertained is the hardest thing to do. I too, get to control the radio all the way. I love my Sirius radio!

[kschafer]

I'm am SO hoping to stay at CSR on the next trip. You pics remind me why...it is so beautiful and looks wonderfully relaxing. I can't wait for more!! Question: does CSR have their own resort mugs? I have only seen the generic ones.

[NWOhioAngela]

I'm am SO hoping to stay at CSR on the next trip. You pics remind me why...it is so beautiful and looks wonderfully relaxing. I can't wait for more!! Question: does CSR have their own resort mugs? I have only seen the generic ones.

Hijacking to answer, yes, they have their own mugs.

[bucci818]

Hi Alan,
I'm so glad I found your new TR.:yay: We stayed at CSR in December, in building 3, and we all loved it. Just seeing your pics and reading so far make me want to go back! Hopefully next year.:upsidedow Can't wait to read more....popcorn::

[disneyhockeymad]

love the updates! Colorado Springs looks like an amazing resort!I definately want to try it out one day! Glad you got a refurbished room too :)

[NWOhioAngela]

I hope you're happy Team Renfroe. You made me drink the Coronado Kool-Aid. We just switched over there. So excited!

[KatMark]

Hijacking to answer, yes, they have their own mugs.

And here is a picture of CSR's mug: http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/mug.jpg

[ph-mtl]

Hi Alan,

Loving your trip report. We were also at Disney the same time we had stayed at Pop Century. We had ran into Rosie a few times and also had a meet with her on the Wednesday at Pop. I agree with you with regards to the rain. It did not stop us from doing anything. We just put on our Ponchos and off we went. We had done more this trip then last year as the lines were not not as long except for Soaring which was a 80 minute wait, which gave us time for our feet to dry out a bit. Looking forward to reading and seeing more of your family's pics.

Gail from Montreal, Quebec Canada

[kschafer]

Hijacking to answer, yes, they have their own mugs.

And here is a picture of CSR's mug: http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/mug.jpg

Thanks friendly Disers! Interesting...do any other resorts have their own? (like I said, I've only seen the 1 desgin this year) I think it's cool to have different ones!

[karajeboo]

So the casitas are out the back door to the left, right? No, left! Yeah, right. Anywho, here I am cracking myself up laying who's on first... all alone....

When we were there in November, we were in I think the casitas, out the back door to the left,right? No!!! Not again! And the rooms were not redone yet. Then in March we were in the cabanas, I think. Out the back door to the right..... Those were done. Just trying to clarify.

Love CSR!!!!!!

[lovedonaldduck]

Finally, I am reading while you are writing! This week I've read your first trip report and your pre-trip report and I kept finding myself wanting to reply and then reminding myself that what I was reading was a year old so you probably didn't need my thoughts :) I am so glad to be caught up!

[NWOhioAngela]

Thanks friendly Disers! Interesting...do any other resorts have their own? (like I said, I've only seen the 1 desgin this year) I think it's cool to have different ones!

They used to "back in the day" but now they are the same for all of the other resorts :-(

[sunnygirl8503]

Hi Alan,
Joining in on the fun. Great trip report so far can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

[alan_renfroe]

I think you just convinced me to upgrade from Pop to Coronado.

I'm telling ya....CSR is AWESOME!! Wait until you see the next two chapters. I've got Coronado Springs pictures o' plenty!

Great start to your TR Alan! I can't wait to read more of your adventures!

Hi Michelle! :wave2: Glad to have you along for the ride!

Hi Alan! So happy to see you are posting your trip and I'm catching the beginning of it:yay:! We were at WDW at the same time (May 16-24) and we actually caught a glimpse of you all in Animal Kingdom. Would've said hi but you were high-tailin' it to (Dinosaur? Everest? Eat? LOL!) somewhere fast! Every one of you had a smile on your face :) ~ despite the rain! So here's that HI! Looking forward to your new trip report! ~ Tara

Oh cool! You were there the same week as us! And you even SAW us? That is TOO funny!! When you saw us, where you like, "Hey! There are the Renfroes!" :rotfl2: That is TOO FUNNY!!! It makes me wonder what we were so high-tailin' it for! Couldn't have been Dinosaur....maybe Everest or Yak & Yeti!!!! Was it raining?

A day late and already 5 pages! :eek: :goodvibes
I haven't gotten caught up yet, but looking forward to reading it all!

Hi Brooke! Glad you found your way over to the trip report!

Caught up now-thanks for the quick links!
Loved that you could rock out during the drive!! Sounds like a REALLY great CD. I love me some 80s rock.

I loved all the pics up until the resort, I could feel the excitement building and building. That is a fantastic picture of the WDW sign! :thumbsup2

Thanks. I was trying to recreate the excitement we were ALL feeling as we approached the resort! It is truly a magical feeling after waiting SOOO long to finally arrive!

Okay Alan,now I understand how you came out with 1500 pics! I came home with 105 - we took so few because we did so little this trip (sickos in the family :sad2:)
I may need to borrow Julianna for my next trip. She takes awesome pictures!
CSR looks fabulous! Nice resort and the food doesn't look bad either!:thumbsup2

I guess I am the only person here that doesn't mind driving through Atlanta :confused3 It's been a few years since I was there but when I go through there it is usually on my way to relatives and a trip to the beach and when we hit Atlanta, it means we only have 4 more hours to drive that day! Maybe that's why I don't mind Atlanta - after you've driven 18 hours, 4 hours seems like you're almost there:cool1:
Enjoying the report so far Alan! Now when are we planning another one?:rotfl2:

There is NO WAY we would have had 1,500 pictures if it had not been for Juliana's pictures! In fact, there will be more pictures from HER camera than from mine featured in this trip report! Also, we did the PhotoPass thing....so some of the pics are photopass pics.

Hey, I understand about Atlanta. Actually, unless there is an accident or construction (which is MOST of the time,) going through downtown Atlanta is not that bad. I just always seem to pass through at the WRONG time!

You've arrived! Now everyone's looking a little more awake and excited! ;) Happy Anniversary! Can't wait to hear if your buttons garnered you any special treats! I hope so!! Hurrah for a refurbbed room AND one close to the bus stop! Things are off to a good start! :thumbsup2

Yeah, it's funny how arrival at Disney World will wake those children RIGHT up!!! :rotfl2: Thanks for the anniversary wishes! More on the refurbed rooms coming up.

Just seeing your pictures is making me so excited!!!!! We leave in 8 days!!!!! So I need more pictures, quickly!!!! :rotfl2:

YAY! :banana: Just a matter of days!!!! Hope you all have a WONDERFUL time!

love TR's the always give me motivation to keep going. I'm only a year and half away from our next trip. Keep the pictures coming

I know it sounds funny, but it will be here before you know it....and then you'll get to live YOUR magic! :wizard:

so excited to read this report!! I really enjoyed your TR from last time and was wondering when a new one would come along!!!! :) Great start and can't wait to read more...by the way..your pics are beautiful!!!! :)

Hi lindseynleah! Thanks for the great comments! I've got LOTS of pictures to share coming up!

Yeah! You're finally there!

Finally!!!! After one full year, it was so awesome to finally be back at Coronado Springs!

Managed to find this TR just now....glad I made it while your are still on "Day 1" of your trip. Look forward to the rest!

(by the way, love that they have a store (I believe) called Panchito's! I like seeing some of the lesser-known characters get billing when the theme fits.

Isn't that cool? Coronado Springs has a lot of theming around the Panchito's character and Donald Duck. We LOVE CSR!!! :lovestruc

Hi Alan, read your last trip report and can't wait to hear how this trip went. We live in Jacksonville, FL and I felt bad for ya'll being at Disney will all the rain. It is still raining everyday just not ALL day.

No worries about the rain. As you will read, we certainly made the BEST of it!!! The rain cannot stop the Renfroes!

[alan_renfroe]

Joining in, sounds like a fun TR!:goodvibes

Hi jmamom! Glad to have you along for the ride! Welcome aboard!

It's going to be quite a long time until we go again. I feel like I am beginning a trip reading right along with you! Thanks!

Cool! Glad to have you along for the ride!

Great start! I can't wait for the food porn!! :thumbsup2

Food porn is on it's way....beginning with Whispering Canyon.

Hi Alan,

It's been a while since I chimed in but letting you we're still along for the ride. As, for the drive, thank goodness for portable DVD's and Mp3 players (with headphones) for long trips. Keeping the kids entertained is the hardest thing to do. I too, get to control the radio all the way. I love my Sirius radio!

Hi Kalamazoo!! Glad to have you along with us! You are right.....Sirius rules!

I'm am SO hoping to stay at CSR on the next trip. You pics remind me why...it is so beautiful and looks wonderfully relaxing. I can't wait for more!! Question: does CSR have their own resort mugs? I have only seen the generic ones.

Oh man....CSR is Soooo beautiful. The landscaping is so lush that you really feel like you have transformed into another place entirely. We are most definitely CSR people! And proud of it!!!

Hijacking to answer, yes, they have their own mugs.

Yep, sure do. And they are cool!

Hi Alan,
I'm so glad I found your new TR.:yay: We stayed at CSR in December, in building 3, and we all loved it. Just seeing your pics and reading so far make me want to go back! Hopefully next year.:upsidedow Can't wait to read more....popcorn::

Hey! Welcome to our 2nd report! We definitely loved CSR. I've got TONS of pictures to share on the way.

love the updates! Colorado Springs looks like an amazing resort!I definately want to try it out one day! Glad you got a refurbished room too :)

It really is an amazing resort. It just fits the personality of our family very well. I've got LOTS of pictures on the way!

I hope you're happy Team Renfroe. You made me drink the Coronado Kool-Aid. We just switched over there. So excited!

YAY! :banana: Drink that Kool-Aid! I guarantee you'll be glad you did!! We LOVE CSR!!!

And here is a picture of CSR's mug: http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/mug.jpg

Nice, Kathy! This is a PERFECT picture of the refillable mugs at CSR. I'll have some pictures at some point...but for now, thanks, Kathy!

Hi Alan,

Loving your trip report. We were also at Disney the same time we had stayed at Pop Century. We had ran into Rosie a few times and also had a meet with her on the Wednesday at Pop. I agree with you with regards to the rain. It did not stop us from doing anything. We just put on our Ponchos and off we went. We had done more this trip then last year as the lines were not not as long except for Soaring which was a 80 minute wait, which gave us time for our feet to dry out a bit. Looking forward to reading and seeing more of your family's pics.

Gail from Montreal, Quebec Canada

Ponchos rule...rain is no problem!!! Did you all enjoy meeting my pal Rosie as much as we did? :yay: Love ya, Rosie!

[alan_renfroe]

Thanks friendly Disers! Interesting...do any other resorts have their own? (like I said, I've only seen the 1 desgin this year) I think it's cool to have different ones!

I am not sure, but I don't think Disney actually owns CSR. That may be why there is a difference.

So the casitas are out the back door to the left, right? No, left! Yeah, right. Anywho, here I am cracking myself up laying who's on first... all alone....

When we were there in November, we were in I think the casitas, out the back door to the left,right? No!!! Not again! And the rooms were not redone yet. Then in March we were in the cabanas, I think. Out the back door to the right..... Those were done. Just trying to clarify.

Love CSR!!!!!!

Yep, if you walk out the back door, the Casitas would be to the LEFT and the Cabanas to the right. I don't know about the Cabanas, but the Casitas have been refurbished, buildings 1-4, and they are currently working on building #5.

Finally, I am reading while you are writing! This week I've read your first trip report and your pre-trip report and I kept finding myself wanting to reply and then reminding myself that what I was reading was a year old so you probably didn't need my thoughts :) I am so glad to be caught up!

Hey lovedonaldduck!!! Glad you are all caught up to speed and you can now follow us in "real time!" Feel free to comment as you wish!

They used to "back in the day" but now they are the same for all of the other resorts :-(

I thought so. Yay CSR!

Hi Alan,
Joining in on the fun. Great trip report so far can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

Welcome aboard, sunnygirl8503! More on the way...

[inkedupmomma]

Hey Alan, thanks for the awesome CSR pics!! I was showing my DH last night, and we both are REALLLLY starting to get excited (if it is possible to get even more excited)! These pics are exactly what he needed to see! Good looking out ;> I look forward to your review of CSR and the food!

[ph-mtl]

Hi jmamom! Glad to have you along for the ride! Welcome aboard!



Cool! Glad to have you along for the ride!



Food porn is on it's way....beginning with Whispering Canyon.



Hi Kalamazoo!! Glad to have you along with us! You are right.....Sirius rules!



Oh man....CSR is Soooo beautiful. The landscaping is so lush that you really feel like you have transformed into another place entirely. We are most definitely CSR people! And proud of it!!!



Yep, sure do. And they are cool!



Hey! Welcome to our 2nd report! We definitely loved CSR. I've got TONS of pictures to share on the way.



It really is an amazing resort. It just fits the personality of our family very well. I've got LOTS of pictures on the way!



YAY! :banana: Drink that Kool-Aid! I guarantee you'll be glad you did!! We LOVE CSR!!!



Nice, Kathy! This is a PERFECT picture of the refillable mugs at CSR. I'll have some pictures at some point...but for now, thanks, Kathy!



Ponchos rule...rain is no problem!!! Did you all enjoy meeting my pal Rosie as much as we did? :yay: Love ya, Rosie!:):) Really enjoyed Rosie she is such a great Lady. It would have been nice to meet you guys at Epcot, but we only arrived that Sunday. Sounds like like you guys had a blast.

Gail:):):):)

[dawz1026]

I am a fan from trip report 1...cant wait to hear the rest of 2!:wizard:

[Sherrkel]

Hi Alan:
I haven't logged in a few days, but am psyched to see you started your trip report. Sorry I missed the pre-trippie thread; been on the boards a little less lately - I think I'm too jealous of everyone else taking their trips when I have to wait another 633 days to be back at CSR :(

I'm looking forward to seeing all your pics and hearing about your trip, very happy for you and your wife being able to celebrate your anniversary.:lovestruc

[DisneyBarlans]

Hi Alan,

I followed you over from Cammie'sTR and the DisMoms Gone Wild TR.

Love the TR so far! I feel your pain about the Atlanta traffic-we are in the suburbs of Atl. and traffic is always a nightmare.

Love your pics of CBR so far-we hope to stay there in the next couple of years. Can't wait to see that food porn everyone's been talking about!;)

[alan_renfroe]

Hey Alan, thanks for the awesome CSR pics!! I was showing my DH last night, and we both are REALLLLY starting to get excited (if it is possible to get even more excited)! These pics are exactly what he needed to see! Good looking out ;> I look forward to your review of CSR and the food!

Oh, I've got TONS of CSR pics coming up in the next couple of chapters! I will go ahead and tell you that we LOVE CSR!! I think we enjoyed the resort even more this year than last year.

:):) Really enjoyed Rosie she is such a great Lady. It would have been nice to meet you guys at Epcot, but we only arrived that Sunday. Sounds like like you guys had a blast.

Gail:):):):)

We enjoyed meeting Rosie as well....although I felt like I already knew her forever! We wish you could've made it on Sunday, but at least you got to meet Rosie! Our meet was a blast! More later.

I am a fan from trip report 1...cant wait to hear the rest of 2!:wizard:

hi dawz1026!! Glad to have you along for TR #2!

Hi Alan:
I haven't logged in a few days, but am psyched to see you started your trip report. Sorry I missed the pre-trippie thread; been on the boards a little less lately - I think I'm too jealous of everyone else taking their trips when I have to wait another 633 days to be back at CSR :(

I'm looking forward to seeing all your pics and hearing about your trip, very happy for you and your wife being able to celebrate your anniversary.:lovestruc

I know what you mean. Now that this trip is over, it is going to be a really long time before we get to go back as well. If it helps any, you can live vicariously through us and our report! Lots of CSR pictures coming up.

Hi Alan,

I followed you over from Cammie'sTR and the DisMoms Gone Wild TR.

Love the TR so far! I feel your pain about the Atlanta traffic-we are in the suburbs of Atl. and traffic is always a nightmare.

Love your pics of CBR so far-we hope to stay there in the next couple of years. Can't wait to see that food porn everyone's been talking about!;)

Hi DisneyBarlans! Welcome to the trip report. Any friend of Cammie's and the DISmoms is a friend of mine! More resort pictures...and eventually the food porn...is on the way!

[inkedupmomma]

Alan, that thrills me to hear this! Thank you!

[alan_renfroe]

As Chapter 3 ended, we were on our way to our room at Coronado Springs Resort. We were all very excited to be staying in the Casitas area for the first time. I had seen lots of pictures of the refurbished rooms at CSR, but we were about to experience them for ourselves.

Our room number was 4245. This was the view from our balcony.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-045.jpg

Finally, it was time to check out our room!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-046.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-047.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-048.jpg

The newly refurbished rooms at Coronado Springs are absolutely beautiful! Being a big guy, I loved having the queen-sized beds and it helped me get a good night's sleep every night of our trip. LOVE CSR!! :cloud9:

Okay, so what is the first thing you do when you arrive in your room at Disney World?

Yep! Time to watch some STACEY!! I've been waiting all year for this!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-050.jpg

This year's show is a little different. Instead of being the "Top 7" like it was last year, this year's show was called, "The Disney Must-Dos." We missed some of our favorite memorable lines from last year's show, (like "Summit Plummet", and "look at all the lazy people in the lazy river,") but there were some new classic quotes from this year's show!!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-052.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-051.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-053.jpg

Okay, enough laying around and watching Stacey.....time to get moving! We all brought in our luggage and everything for the week. It has been our vacation tradition for years that I take the kids swimming while Elizabeth unpacks. (This lets them get some of their energy out while giving Elizabeth time by herself to unpack and unwind.)

The kids and I changed into our swimsuits and headed out the door to walk to the dig site pool. This was a perfect opportunity for me to take TONS of pictures of the beautiful Coronado Springs Resort.

The quiet pool for the Casitas area:

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-054.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-055.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-056.jpg

Walking the path to the dig site...(you can see The Dolphin resort on the horizon.)

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-057.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-058.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-059.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-060.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-061.jpg

Coming up - LOTS more pictures of Coronado Springs, and the kids and I enjoy the Dig Site Pool! Later, dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe.

[Shir Kahn]

Woohoo, I'm in at (almost) the beginning! You had me hooked at 80's music and mentioning that there'll be a lot of pictures of food! Can't wait! Great job so far, I like your writing style! :goodvibes

[alan_renfroe]

Here are more pictures from our walk to the Dig Site pool:

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-062.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-063.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-064.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-065.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-066.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-067.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-068.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-069.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-070.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-071.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-072.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-073.jpg

I love this picture! Both kids decided to go underwater for the first time this year at the same time!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-074.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-075.jpg

The Jaquar slide:

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-076.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-077.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-078.jpg

A perfect May day in Central Florida!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-079.jpg

Siesta's poolside bar and grille at the dig site: not today - but we WILL be back!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-081.jpg

Coming up next - more CSR pictures, and getting ready for dinner.

[shannon47142]

awesome pictures!! the room does look good-loved the colors:goodvibes

[TigerKat]

Great job Alan, I just love your TR's!!!! We may have to try CSR on our next moderate stay.:goodvibes

[lindseynleah]

Alan, these pictures are gorgeous!!! I think that someday my family and I may have to check this out...love the new rooms too!!!! Can't wait to read more!!!

[serene56]

aw, those pictures of CSR are perfect. Too bad I had to switch from CSR to Pop because it cost $600 per room more. (sigh)
I spent so many weeks researching CSR too. Now I gotta start all over again

[UsNew2Disney2008]

Alan, love the pics! Your kids look so sweet together - and love them going underwater together at the same time - very cool! :thumbsup2

[IlovemythreeC's]

Love your update :love:

CSR is just BEAUTIFUL:)

Cannot wait for more!!!!

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

Page 8 already! Ack! I have so much to catch up on! Can't wait to follow your trip report! Are you doing a food one as well - its thanks to you I tried California Grill earlier this month for the first time!

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

[FONT="Verdana"][SIZE="3"]
Okay, so what is the first thing you do when you arrive in your room at Disney World?

Yep! Time to watch some STACEY!! I've been waiting all year for this!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-050.jpg

This year's show is a little different. Instead of being the "Top 7" like it was last year, this year's show was called, "The Disney Must-Dos." We missed some of our favorite memorable lines from last year's show, (like "Summit Plummet", and "look at all the lazy people in the lazy river,") but there were some new classic quotes from this year's show!!

]

All caught up! Just have to tell you how much I agree - we were so disappointed by Stacey this year. She has got all "mature" instead of fun, and all my fave quotes are gone!!! Boo!

[KatMark]

Great job Alan, I just love your TR's!!!! We may have to try CSR on our next moderate stay.:goodvibes

You really should--it is a great resort. Even Todd likes it! :rotfl:
Seriously, we've stayed seven times, and we can't tear ourselves away from it.

[MaryAz]

Great update, love the all pics. The room looked really nice. This was our first Stacey experience-I guees we watched her too much cause I forgot where we were but there was a woman's voice over a loudspeaker and Cayley yells "quiet Stacey":scared1::dance3:

[2xcited2sleep]

Wow! The new rooms look beautiful. I really like what hotels are doing now with the plain comforter and then the splash of color either down the middle or across the foot of the bed!

There's a new Stacy show! :hyper: I can't wait! She's so annoying but I can't look away. I must watch that show a dozen times every vacation.

You are selling me more and more on the resort. It looks beautiful!

[TigerKat]

You really should--it is a great resort. Even Todd likes it! :rotfl:
Seriously, we've stayed seven times, and we can't tear ourselves away from it.

Now I'm really intrigued.....:rotfl2:

[stepdisney]

Got my Margarita....I'm ready. Really love you trip reports. Can't wait for more. Great pictures!

[pmama]

Well at least the rain held off for your first day huh?:goodvibes

Beautiful pictures.

[ckdsnynt]

Lovin it!

[AussieAngel]

Yay, another Team Renfroe trip report!! :woohoo:

I read your last one once it was finished, so I'm glad I'm on time this time to read!! You guys have so much fun! CSR looks great, especially the fancy new rooms!!

[mandysmom]

Yay! Great report and lot's of beautiful CSR pics!!
We'll be there in 80 days! :cool1:

[alan_renfroe]

Woohoo, I'm in at (almost) the beginning! You had me hooked at 80's music and mentioning that there'll be a lot of pictures of food! Can't wait! Great job so far, I like your writing style! :goodvibes

Welcome aboard, Shir Kahn! Lots and lots of food pics to come...I promise!

awesome pictures!! the room does look good-loved the colors:goodvibes

The room was outstanding. It can be debated that you don't spend a lot of time in your room at Disney anyway....but I know that the time I DO spend in the room, I want to make sure I get plenty of rest. Those beds were worth the price of a moderate, in my opinion.

Great job Alan, I just love your TR's!!!! We may have to try CSR on our next moderate stay.:goodvibes

Thanks, TigerKat! Always a pleasure to have you as a reader!!! :goodvibes

Alan, these pictures are gorgeous!!! I think that someday my family and I may have to check this out...love the new rooms too!!!! Can't wait to read more!!!

For us, there is just something special about Coronado Springs. I am hooked!

aw, those pictures of CSR are perfect. Too bad I had to switch from CSR to Pop because it cost $600 per room more. (sigh)
I spent so many weeks researching CSR too. Now I gotta start all over again

Hey, I totally understand. And I really think my family would have enjoyed Pop Century. The kids LOVED the theming and the rooms look cozy. However, once I read that CSR was upgrading to queen beds, I was sold!

Alan, love the pics! Your kids look so sweet together - and love them going underwater together at the same time - very cool! :thumbsup2

The kids DO look sweet together, don't they? Wish they could get along ALL THE TIME like they do at Disney!! I loved that picture of them going under water at the same time also. That was totally unplanned....just one of those things that siblings do!

Love your update :love:

CSR is just BEAUTIFUL:)

Cannot wait for more!!!!

More CSR photos in the next installlment. Stay tuned!

Page 8 already! Ack! I have so much to catch up on! Can't wait to follow your trip report! Are you doing a food one as well - its thanks to you I tried California Grill earlier this month for the first time!

Oh, I hope you all enjoyed California Grill as much as we did. I absolutely LOVE that place! There is just something so special about being on the 15th floor of the Contemporary at Disney....makes me feel like a V.I.P.!

All caught up! Just have to tell you how much I agree - we were so disappointed by Stacey this year. She has got all "mature" instead of fun, and all my fave quotes are gone!!! Boo!

Yeah, Stacey was a little "toned down" this year....not quite the excitement level we have experienced in the past. However, this new video does have some cool moments. The entire time we were at Epcot this year, we kept repeating the Stacey line, "Test Track Baby!"

[alan_renfroe]

You really should--it is a great resort. Even Todd likes it! :rotfl:
Seriously, we've stayed seven times, and we can't tear ourselves away from it.

7 times? Wow! I knew you were a huge CSR fan, but I didn't realize you had stayed there 7 times!!! I can see us staying there 7 times at some point as well!!! CSR IS our Disney home!

Great update, love the all pics. The room looked really nice. This was our first Stacey experience-I guees we watched her too much cause I forgot where we were but there was a woman's voice over a loudspeaker and Cayley yells "quiet Stacey":scared1::dance3:

Hahahaha....that's hilarious! Cayley has obviously caught the Stacey bug! Some people find her annoying....and I can totally see that....but for the most part I love her enthusiasm, and you can only see her at Disney!! So, if you're watching Stacey, you MUST be in a great place, right?

Wow! The new rooms look beautiful. I really like what hotels are doing now with the plain comforter and then the splash of color either down the middle or across the foot of the bed!

There's a new Stacy show! :hyper: I can't wait! She's so annoying but I can't look away. I must watch that show a dozen times every vacation.

You are selling me more and more on the resort. It looks beautiful!

I agree, Christine. I love the plain comforter look.....it is very inviting after a long day at the parks.

Yep, there's a new Stacey program. Overall, I really enjoyed the new program...but it is a little toned down from the previous years....and I actually like all the over-excitement from the past year's show! Anyway, there is STILL some classic moments in the new one as well!

Hey, I have no reason to sell anyone on CSR....except that we love it ourselves....but I would recommend CSR to ANYONE, unless you are not physically able to walk long distances. CSR is a HUGE resort.

Now I'm really intrigued.....:rotfl2:

Me too!

Got my Margarita....I'm ready. Really love you trip reports. Can't wait for more. Great pictures!

Is that a frozen margarita, or on the rocks? Love mine on the rocks! "Wasted away again...."

Thanks fo the great comments! I hope this will turn out to be a great trip report! Thanks for hanging with us.

Well at least the rain held off for your first day huh?:goodvibes

Beautiful pictures.

Oh yeah.....there was absolutely NO RAIN on our arrival date. As you can tell from the pictures, there was lots of clouds....but no actual rain! It was just a perfect mid-May day in Central Florida!

Lovin it!

:cool1:

Yay, another Team Renfroe trip report!! :woohoo:

I read your last one once it was finished, so I'm glad I'm on time this time to read!! You guys have so much fun! CSR looks great, especially the fancy new rooms!!

Hi AussieAngel! Glad you are on board for this entire trip report!!! I had such a great time putting together last year's report....I could hardly wait to start a new one!

Yay! Great report and lot's of beautiful CSR pics!!
We'll be there in 80 days! :cool1:

Thanks, mandysmom! You'll be at CSR in less than 80 days? Well then...I guess you will enjoy some of the pictures we've got coming up!

[alan_renfroe]

When we last left off, we were swimming at the CSR dig site pool area. On the way back to our room, we took several more pictures.

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The clouds look dark, but NO RAIN!!! A perfect day in Central Florida!

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This is one I will call "MY LAUGHING PLACE!"

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On the way back to our room, we decided to stop off at the quiet pool for one last swim before getting ready to go to dinner!

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Coming up next: Getting ready to go to dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe, and checking out the Wilderness Lodge Resort!

[acellison]

Great TR so far! I love that CSR has put Queen size beds in the rooms. Maybe this will be in the future for other mods. Great pictues of the resort and your sweet kiddos;)

[Luis Rodriguez]

Hi Alan,

Wonderful photos, and the kids look as if they are having a blast! The CSR's landscaping looks just beautiful...

Regards,
Luis

[disneyfan61]

Enjoying your TR!! We just got back on Friday. Got to meet Rosie in Epcot & that was great. Cannot wait to read more of your TR!!:)

[kschafer]

do your kids really get along as well as they appear in your pictures? They act like the best of friends! LOVING the CSR pics!

[2xcited2sleep]

Looking forward to hearing what you think of Wilderness Lodge. I've only seen it in pictures and dream about staying there someday. And Whispering Canyon... I can't recall if you ate there last year? Can't wait for a classic Team Renfroe dining review either way! :)

[UsNew2Disney2008]

Alan, loving your pictures! But those skys in the background look so angry! :sad2:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hey Alan! All caught up, great job on the report so far. :thumbsup2

[MaryAz]

Cute hammock pics!

[mefordis]

Waiting for the next installment!! I spent a good part of my weekend reading your first trip report and pre trip report, now come on! My kind of report -- lots of pics and details!

Did I read correctly that this was the first year both your kids went underwater? Is that possible with the water slides and such? How did they not go underwater before? Maybe I misread what you were saying.

[ph-mtl]

Hi Alan,

Really great pics of the resort and also your children. Enoying your TR. cannot wait to read more.

Gail

[bucci818]

Hi Alan,
Great updates! Your pics of CSR are wonderful! They really make me want to book a trip for next year NOW! Can't wait for more...popcorn::

[KatMark]

7 times? Wow! I knew you were a huge CSR fan, but I didn't realize you had stayed there 7 times!!! I can see us staying there 7 times at some point as well!!! CSR IS our Disney home!





Yep, seven times. September was supposed to be number eight. But it will wait until 2010--we're going to do a split stay (we've never done) with AKL for three nights and then back "home" at CSR for seven nights.

The pictures and the report continue to be great. Can't wait to read more. Anxious to see your thoughts on WCC (we didn't care for it at all when we were there in September).

[bwmmfan]

Hi Alan

I just caught up. I was staying away from the DIS for a while. Withdrawl pangs and all...I am glad the rain didn't slow you down. If I wrote a TR it would be titled our Wet and Wild trip to the World. Can't wait to see your dining reveiws. Some of the places we visited this trip were based on your last TR. We have a 2011 trip on the back of our minds as our last hoorah! We'll see. Can't wait to read more!

[Mysteria]

Finally got a chance to sit down and catch up with your report. Love all the pictures!

[englishrose47]

Well I am all caught up !! It has been a super busy week !! I still have to find time to get together with my pal to load my pix !! I have nowhere near as many as you though !!I did do my PP last night and have some awesome ones !! The MMM meet was not on mine either but I did get one on my camera so that's okay !!
Gail it was great meting you and Pat too!! We were both at op and ran into each other almost eveyday!! I even introduced them to my special CM!!!

[Rozz]

Your resort is beautiful! We've got to try it next time we go to WDW. Great trip report; can't wait for more!popcorn::

[Michelle_and_Aaron]

The kids looked so excited to be back at Disney and at CSR! I can't wait to read more!

[kenaiwitch]

What an awesome trip! and your kids are so cute. Can't wait for more:banana:

[jlcd]

Joining in. We stayed at CSR for the frist time in April and loved it. Can't wait to read about the rest of your trip!

[pmama]

Yep, those clouds are dark. Glad the kids got to enjoy the pool w/o rain the first day.:goodvibes

[DisneyBarlans]

Loving the pics of CSR-and the kids look so cute on the hammock!

[inkedupmomma]

Alan, thank you so so soooo much for all these great photos! I truly can not wait for our upcoming stay at CSR!!

[MeMom]

We had arrived! Now it was time to get out of the vehicle and check in!



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Don't you just love the feeling you have when you're at this moment in time? The Florida sun welcomes you, palm trees wave hello, and the whole trip lies before you...such an awesome feeling!

[lovedonaldduck]

Yep, seven times. September was supposed to be number eight. But it will wait until 2010--we're going to do a split stay (we've never done) with AKL for three nights and then back "home" at CSR for seven nights.

The pictures and the report continue to be great. Can't wait to read more. Anxious to see your thoughts on WCC (we didn't care for it at all when we were there in September).

I am interested to hear the WCC review as well, we went in April and were not impressed at all.

[Jeanine3kids]

Great report so far Alan I love all of your pics from CSR, this year we are staying 10 days 7 at BCV and 3 at Animal Kingdom Villas but I woonder if we should of stayed 3 days at CSR instead.

[Must C Mickey]

OK I made it and am subscribed. I had to catch up on the TR this morning at work b/c I was at the beach all last week. Great start and looking forward to the rest. Sorry about that ATL traffic, it can be quite the headache. I lived there a few yrs ago and boy was that a mess to deal w/ everyday!!!

[podsnel]

I've said it before and I'm sayin it again- your kids are AWESOME!!!!!!:goodvibes Great hammock pics!

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

You are a great narrator!! I am looking foward to seeing how the rest went and allowing you to help keep me grounded til my next trip!! After you are done, I'll have to find someone else!!! I am going to start working on a pre-trip report also to help!! I can't believe I never knew of this site in all my trips to Disney!!?? Anyway, can't wait for the next installment!

[clomahony]

MEMOM is so right. That feeling as you are checking in is one of the greatest feelings - such hope that you got a good room and looking forward to all the fun coming up.

Alan, your family is just wonderful. Thanks for sharing your trip with us again.:)

[brookelizabeth]

CSR is BEAUTIFUL. Wow, awesome pictures. :thumbsup2

This year's show is a little different. Instead of being the "Top 7" like it was last year, this year's show was called, "The Disney Must-Dos." We missed some of our favorite memorable lines from last year's show, (like "Summit Plummet", and "look at all the lazy people in the lazy river,") but there were some new classic quotes from this year's show!!

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No "Summit Plummet"?! No hand motion?! Ack!!

And Stacey is wearing a BLAZER?! Where are her braided pig tails? Please tell me she at least goes a little wacky in hats around World Showcase?

Thank goodness we have YouTube! ;) I also enjoyed "look at all the lazy people on the lazy river" :laughing:

I am a bit put off by the new "mature" Stacey...but looking forward to the show and new lines too. As long as it's still Stacey-esque I'll be okay...;)


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This is a great shot! The lighting is beautiful. I loved all the pics of the kids in the hammocks too-they would be a fun series in a frame with a few openings.

[alan_renfroe]

Great TR so far! I love that CSR has put Queen size beds in the rooms. Maybe this will be in the future for other mods. Great pictues of the resort and your sweet kiddos;)

Oh, let me tell you....the queen beds are a HUGE plus. For a big guy like me, this makes the mods worth the extra price over the values. Thanks for your great comments!

Hi Alan,

Wonderful photos, and the kids look as if they are having a blast! The CSR's landscaping looks just beautiful...

Regards,
Luis

Hi Luis! Hope all is well with you and your family, my friend. We are ALL having a blast at CSR!!!

Enjoying your TR!! We just got back on Friday. Got to meet Rosie in Epcot & that was great. Cannot wait to read more of your TR!!:)

How cool! Rosie is awesome!! We love ya, Rosie!

do your kids really get along as well as they appear in your pictures? They act like the best of friends! LOVING the CSR pics!

Nope. It is all just a disguise for the camera!! Seriously!! They fight constantly....just like most siblings....but they do love each other.

Looking forward to hearing what you think of Wilderness Lodge. I've only seen it in pictures and dream about staying there someday. And Whispering Canyon... I can't recall if you ate there last year? Can't wait for a classic Team Renfroe dining review either way! :)

Hi Christine! No, Whispering Canyon was a new experience for us! Pictures and details are forthcoming.

Alan, loving your pictures! But those skys in the background look so angry! :sad2:

Yes, those skys do look angry my friend. Believe it or not, we escaped this day without any rain whatsoever!!! It actually turned out to be a beautiful afternoon, dusk, and sunset. Pictures are on the way!

Hey Alan! All caught up, great job on the report so far. :thumbsup2

Hi Lessa!! SO great to meet you on this trip!!! Thanks for hanging with us!

Cute hammock pics!

Awww....thanks Mary! I guess you can tell I am pretty proud of those kiddos of mine!

Waiting for the next installment!! I spent a good part of my weekend reading your first trip report and pre trip report, now come on! My kind of report -- lots of pics and details!

Did I read correctly that this was the first year both your kids went underwater? Is that possible with the water slides and such? How did they not go underwater before? Maybe I misread what you were saying.

Oh they had been underwater before....it was just the first time THIS YEAR! We have not been in a pool in 2009, so this was the first time this year that they had been under water. I thought it was cool that they spontaneously decided to go underwater at the same time!

Hi Alan,

Really great pics of the resort and also your children. Enoying your TR. cannot wait to read more.

Gail

Hi Gail! :wave2: Hope all is well with you. Thanks for the great comments! More report on the way.

Hi Alan,
Great updates! Your pics of CSR are wonderful! They really make me want to book a trip for next year NOW! Can't wait for more...popcorn::

I would just LOVE to go to CSR every year for the rest of my life!!! I just love it! I mean I have stayed at much nicer places, but CSR is SOOOO Disney! For us, it is just PERFECT for a Disney vacation!

[alan_renfroe]

Yep, seven times. September was supposed to be number eight. But it will wait until 2010--we're going to do a split stay (we've never done) with AKL for three nights and then back "home" at CSR for seven nights.

The pictures and the report continue to be great. Can't wait to read more. Anxious to see your thoughts on WCC (we didn't care for it at all when we were there in September).

Cool! That 2010 trip sounds awesome!! Pictures and comments on Whispering Canyon are on the way.

Hi Alan

I just caught up. I was staying away from the DIS for a while. Withdrawl pangs and all...I am glad the rain didn't slow you down. If I wrote a TR it would be titled our Wet and Wild trip to the World. Can't wait to see your dining reveiws. Some of the places we visited this trip were based on your last TR. We have a 2011 trip on the back of our minds as our last hoorah! We'll see. Can't wait to read more!

Hey bwmmfan!!! Haven't seen you in a while!! I hope our past trip report steered you in a good direction! I hear ya on the 2011 trip!

Finally got a chance to sit down and catch up with your report. Love all the pictures!

Hey Myst! Hope you are having a great week!

Well I am all caught up !! It has been a super busy week !! I still have to find time to get together with my pal to load my pix !! I have nowhere near as many as you though !!I did do my PP last night and have some awesome ones !! The MMM meet was not on mine either but I did get one on my camera so that's okay !!
Gail it was great meting you and Pat too!! We were both at op and ran into each other almost eveyday!! I even introduced them to my special CM!!!

We haven't gotten our PhotoPass share info yet, but I am anxious to get the c.d. I know we took a lot of photos...so I am hoping to add those to this collection...and ultimately share them in this trip report.

Your resort is beautiful! We've got to try it next time we go to WDW. Great trip report; can't wait for more!popcorn::

Thanks, Rozz! We absolutely LOVE CSR!!!!! :love:

The kids looked so excited to be back at Disney and at CSR! I can't wait to read more!

Oh they were!!! It's hard to explain...but it is almost as if we ALL forgot what a WONDERFUL place Disney and CSR are. Once we arrived, we were jubulent!

What an awesome trip! and your kids are so cute. Can't wait for more:banana:

Awww....thanks very much! I am very proud of our children, and I think they are both pretty special!

Joining in. We stayed at CSR for the frist time in April and loved it. Can't wait to read about the rest of your trip!

I'm glad you all loved CSR like we did!! I guess it all depends on what you are looking for. For us, CSR has a great Disney "feel" to it, and the landscaping is second to none!

Yep, those clouds are dark. Glad the kids got to enjoy the pool w/o rain the first day.:goodvibes

Hi pmama! Yep, those clouds were a concern....but no rain! Not on this day, anyway!

Loving the pics of CSR-and the kids look so cute on the hammock!

Thanks! The kids just LOVED getting on those hammocks. In fact, for the rest of the week, anytime we would go to the Dig Site pool, the kids would get on the hammocks. They were VERY comfortable...and I could have easily just spent a full day chillin' in the hammocks!

Alan, thank you so so soooo much for all these great photos! I truly can not wait for our upcoming stay at CSR!!

Hey, no problem. More pictures on the way. I hope you guys enjoy CSR as much as we did!

[alan_renfroe]

Don't you just love the feeling you have when you're at this moment in time? The Florida sun welcomes you, palm trees wave hello, and the whole trip lies before you...such an awesome feeling!

Oh, it's the BEST!!! In fact, I don't think anything could ever beat that feeling of just arriving....it is euphoric.

I am interested to hear the WCC review as well, we went in April and were not impressed at all.

WCC pictures and review on the way.

Great report so far Alan I love all of your pics from CSR, this year we are staying 10 days 7 at BCV and 3 at Animal Kingdom Villas but I woonder if we should of stayed 3 days at CSR instead.

I would love to try AKV myself. A good friend of ours, (that's you, Ellen,) stays there regularly and LOVES it. If we ever upgrade, I can definitely see us staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge. However, for a moderate...(and we are moderate people)...give me Coronado Springs!

OK I made it and am subscribed. I had to catch up on the TR this morning at work b/c I was at the beach all last week. Great start and looking forward to the rest. Sorry about that ATL traffic, it can be quite the headache. I lived there a few yrs ago and boy was that a mess to deal w/ everyday!!!

Hi Must C Mickey! Glad to have you along with us! Yep, that Atlanta traffic can get pretty bad at times! Fortunately, it wasn't a problem on the way back home.

I've said it before and I'm sayin it again- your kids are AWESOME!!!!!!:goodvibes Great hammock pics!

Awww....thanks Ellen! I hope to get to meet your boys one day as well! I do think my kidos are pretty amazing!

You are a great narrator!! I am looking foward to seeing how the rest went and allowing you to help keep me grounded til my next trip!! After you are done, I'll have to find someone else!!! I am going to start working on a pre-trip report also to help!! I can't believe I never knew of this site in all my trips to Disney!!?? Anyway, can't wait for the next installment!

Well, I can assure you, with more than 1500 pictures this report is going to take A WHILE!

MEMOM is so right. That feeling as you are checking in is one of the greatest feelings - such hope that you got a good room and looking forward to all the fun coming up.

Alan, your family is just wonderful. Thanks for sharing your trip with us again.:)

Thanks very much! It is my pleasure to share our trip with everyone. Hope you will enjoy the report!

CSR is BEAUTIFUL. Wow, awesome pictures. :thumbsup2

No "Summit Plummet"?! No hand motion?! Ack!!

And Stacey is wearing a BLAZER?! Where are her braided pig tails? Please tell me she at least goes a little wacky in hats around World Showcase?

Thank goodness we have YouTube! ;) I also enjoyed "look at all the lazy people on the lazy river" :laughing:

I am a bit put off by the new "mature" Stacey...but looking forward to the show and new lines too. As long as it's still Stacey-esque I'll be okay...;)

This is a great shot! The lighting is beautiful. I loved all the pics of the kids in the hammocks too-they would be a fun series in a frame with a few openings.

Nope...no Summit Plummet hand motions this year! I thought that was classic! They did have some scenes from the previous year's production....in my opinion, they should have kept the Summit Plummet comment with the hand motions!! DD and I do that ALLLL the time!! :rotfl2:

Yes, Stacey is all dressed up...and grown up.....too grown up. C'mon Stacey! Where's that overly hyper girl we all know and love? Looks like someone dialed the ridalin down a bit! But don't worry....you'll still get your Stacey on!

Thanks for the great comments as always Brooke!

[alan_renfroe]

Now that the kids and I had a chance to go swimming in the Dig Site pool AND the quiet pool, it was time to head back to the room to get ready for dinner at the Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge. We wanted to get there a little early so that we could take the boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom and back!

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Leaving CSR in our vehicle to drive to Wilderness Lodge.

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Wilderness Lodge is SOOO beautiful!

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Coming up next...more pictures of Wilderness Lodge, a boat trip to the Magic Kingdom, and later, dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe.

[alan_renfroe]

More pictures from Wilderness Lodge:

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Wilderness Lodge is absolutely breathtaking!

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It is now about 7pm. Our dinner reservations for Whispering Canyon Cafe is at 8:05pm.

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We have about an hour before our dinner reservations, so we thought we would see if we could find the boat to the Magic Kingdom....and maybe take a joy ride! Stay tuned...

[AussieAngel]

Ohhhh, lovely Wilderness Lodge photos!! We stayed there in January and just loved it! :lovestruc

Looking forward to hearing about your dinner - we had a couple of delicious meals at Whispering Canyon Cafe! :thumbsup2

[2xcited2sleep]

WOW!! WL is gorgeous!! So impressive! I LOVE your pictures but am also :rotfl: b/c only a DISer would take that many pictures just in the parking lot before getting to the lobby! :lmao: I love it!! And I'm the same way. :upsidedow

You got some beautiful family shots. Look like this is another picture perfect Team Renfroe trip full of some wonderful memories!

[stepdisney]

My prediction....a stay at Wilderness Lodge for you next year! I must say, of all my stays, and as much as I love Animal Kingdom Lodge, my heart skips a beat when I think of our stay at WL! The boat ride, the quietness of the pines, that whole mountain Lodge feel.....ahhhhh:cloud9:. I think you feel it too! AND they have bunk beds for the kids. (Did I convince you yet??)

Alan, you are a great storyteller. I love your trip reports!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Ahhh, love the Wilderness Lodge photos, it is my home away from home at WDW. :cloud9:

[karajeboo]

Well, I do think you are on your way to posting all 1500 pictures!!! :thumbsup2 Love all the pics of CSR - I do love that resort!!! That is the only one of the mods that I feel is actually worth the price to upgrade from a value. We just love it there!
And WL is so beautiful! We're looking at that one next hopefully at Christmas time!
Your family is so awesome, the pics are great!!!!

[Camster0307]

Hey Alan! I'm here. Sorry I've been neglecting the DIS for the past week. Lauren and I did the Relay for Life walk on Friday night - up all night walking - and I'm STILL trying to catch up on my sleep!

Just wanted you to know I'm subscribing and hope to get all caught up with your TR this week!:thumbsup2

[lovedonaldduck]

We thought the Wilderness Lodge was so beautiful when we went to WCC for lunch in April. We are considering DVC and right now the WL is the hook for my husband. He would love to live in a log cabin so the WL is right up his alley.

[bucci818]

Alan, you are killing me! WL is my second favorite resort. It just feels so peaceful. Can't wait to read about your boat trip and WCC!

[Cinderelly5507]

I love your TR! WL looks beautiful... I plan on eating at WCC in Sept. just to visit the resort! Can't wait for your food porn/reviews! :woohoo:

[kschafer]

I know after your pics of CSR I said it was beautiful (and I am def staying there on my next trip)...but WL are SO BEAUTIFUL. It is my deluxe dream...someday maybe :cloud9:

Looking forward to WCC. We ended up not making our ADR last year and I was really bummed. It's on the next trip must-do list too!

[lindseynleah]

once again..great pictures!!! I feel like I am there with you!! We were supposed to be staying at Wilderness Lodge this trip, but had to downgrade to the moderate..which is fine cause we still be at Disney after all..but I planned for year and a half on staying there...someday..but your pictures are just awesome!! Can't wait to read more!! :)

[pmama]

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Those are gorgeous vanity doors, I love how they shut too! Are they sliding doors?

[ckdsnynt]

Loving your report. :thumbsup2

MY DD stayed in WL several years ago with some friends but I was never impressed with it. When we had an opportunity last Feb to upgrade to there for the price of a mod, I said okay and boy was I glad. They upgraded us to a water view when we checked in and it was fabulous. I love that place now and would stay there again without a blink of the eye. I also loved the WC restaurant. What fun we had there!

Keep the report going! Can't wait for the next installment.:worship:

[Camster0307]

How could I NOT find it? I saw it plastered on billboards the whole way up I-4 on my way home!!!! ;)

LMAO! How can you NOT love our buddy Kara? :lmao:

[Camster0307]

Our Honda Odyssey has a six disc c.d. player and will play mp3s. Nice! I made several mp3 discs in the weeks leading up to the trip....so I had TONS of tunes from which to chose. The other family members all had their own forms of entertainment. For Elizabeth, it was her books, her laptop, and her beauty sleep! For Wil, it was his mp3 player and his cell phone for texting friends back home. For Juliana, it was her Nintendo DS or the dvd player with her own headphones. That meant I had full control of the c.d. player in the Odyssey!!! I took full advantage of this opportunity to listen to every guilty pleasure song known to a child of the 80s like myself!! I had made one c.d. in particular that had 170 mp3s from the year 1984!! SWEET!! Can you say Van Halen, Billy Idol, The Cars, Culture Club, Huey Lewis & The News, Rick Springfield, Prince, Madonna, Twisted Sister, and Z.Z. Top? WOOHOO!! :cool1: This dad is on vacation TOO!



I'm slightly embarassed to admit that I have seen SEVEN of those bands that you listed! Just add Billy Squier, LoverBoy, Hall & Oates, Adam and the Ants, Joan Jett, and Simple Minds and I'm reliving my college years. WOOT!

(I'm catching up so I'm ninja-posting right now!;) )

[Camster0307]

Okay, so what is the first thing you do when you arrive in your room at Disney World?

Yep! Time to watch some STACEY!! I've been waiting all year for this!

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This year's show is a little different. Instead of being the "Top 7" like it was last year, this year's show was called, "The Disney Must-Dos." We missed some of our favorite memorable lines from last year's show, (like "Summit Plummet", and "look at all the lazy people in the lazy river,") but there were some new classic quotes from this year's show!!


"Love roller coasters. Love Aerosmith. H-e-l-l-o?" "Triple Mountain Whammy!"

Can you guess this is the EXACT same thing we have to do when we get into the room also. I swear - it's Stacy ALL THE TIME when we're in the room. Lauren even insists on falling asleep to it. I couldn't believe they've changed it and had to call and tell her. She was devasted but then quickly replied "Well, I guess I have some new lines to memorize!" :laughing:

[Camster0307]

Ok - all caught up! Whewwww!

CSR looks beautiful. And I'm so jealous of all your pool shots. Our DISmoms trip was too short and we didn't get pool time. Looking to correct that for NEXT year's trip. ;)

As for that gorgeous WL - perfect!:cloud9:

[alan_renfroe]

Ohhhh, lovely Wilderness Lodge photos!! We stayed there in January and just loved it! :lovestruc

Looking forward to hearing about your dinner - we had a couple of delicious meals at Whispering Canyon Cafe! :thumbsup2

Thanks! This was the first time we had ever been to Wilderness Lodge...and when you walk into that atrium, all you can say is "wow!"

WOW!! WL is gorgeous!! So impressive! I LOVE your pictures but am also :rotfl: b/c only a DISer would take that many pictures just in the parking lot before getting to the lobby! :lmao: I love it!! And I'm the same way. :upsidedow

You got some beautiful family shots. Look like this is another picture perfect Team Renfroe trip full of some wonderful memories!

Hahaha...yep, guilty as charged!! When you are a DISer, you're constantly looking at things and thinking, "I could totally use that in my trip report! Take a picture of it!"

Thanks for the comments about the family. We work WAYY too hard, so we totally enjoy these times together! :grouphug:

My prediction....a stay at Wilderness Lodge for you next year! I must say, of all my stays, and as much as I love Animal Kingdom Lodge, my heart skips a beat when I think of our stay at WL! The boat ride, the quietness of the pines, that whole mountain Lodge feel.....ahhhhh:cloud9:. I think you feel it too! AND they have bunk beds for the kids. (Did I convince you yet??)

Alan, you are a great storyteller. I love your trip reports!

Hmmm....ya think so? Could be! It would be awefully tough to drag we away from CSR though! I would LOVE to stay at WL sometime. (Also, I think would love to try Boardwalk or Animal Kingdom Lodge as well.) Here's an idea....I could just spend the next 20 years spending one week at EACH resort!!

Ahhh, love the Wilderness Lodge photos, it is my home away from home at WDW. :cloud9:

It is really nice. I fell in love with that atrium.

Well, I do think you are on your way to posting all 1500 pictures!!! :thumbsup2 Love all the pics of CSR - I do love that resort!!! That is the only one of the mods that I feel is actually worth the price to upgrade from a value. We just love it there!
And WL is so beautiful! We're looking at that one next hopefully at Christmas time!
Your family is so awesome, the pics are great!!!!

Hi Kara! :wave2: Of course I'm on my way to posting ALL 1500 pictures....I took them, didn't I? :rotfl2: Well of COURSE I am going to share them! You didn't think I'd be advertising all up and down I-4 for nothing did you?

Hey Alan! I'm here. Sorry I've been neglecting the DIS for the past week. Lauren and I did the Relay for Life walk on Friday night - up all night walking - and I'm STILL trying to catch up on my sleep!

Just wanted you to know I'm subscribing and hope to get all caught up with your TR this week!:thumbsup2

Hi Cammie! :wave2: Welcome aboard....and it is ABOUT time! Just get here when you can!!!

That is great that you and Lauren did Relay for Life. That is a great cause.

We thought the Wilderness Lodge was so beautiful when we went to WCC for lunch in April. We are considering DVC and right now the WL is the hook for my husband. He would love to live in a log cabin so the WL is right up his alley.

I loved that when you check in at WCC, there are Lincoln Logs for the little kids to play with! I just thought that was cool. Wilderness Lodge definitely looked "cozy" to me."

Alan, you are killing me! WL is my second favorite resort. It just feels so peaceful. Can't wait to read about your boat trip and WCC!

Hahaha...COOL! Boat ride coming up.

I love your TR! WL looks beautiful... I plan on eating at WCC in Sept. just to visit the resort! Can't wait for your food porn/reviews! :woohoo:

I am so glad that we decided to leave earlier than originally planned, so that we could add Whispering Canyon Cafe and see Wilderness Lodge.

[alan_renfroe]

I know after your pics of CSR I said it was beautiful (and I am def staying there on my next trip)...but WL are SO BEAUTIFUL. It is my deluxe dream...someday maybe :cloud9:

Looking forward to WCC. We ended up not making our ADR last year and I was really bummed. It's on the next trip must-do list too!

I cannot decide which resort would be my deluxe dream...they all look so nice. I don't want to give anything away, but I am glad we went to WCC.

once again..great pictures!!! I feel like I am there with you!! We were supposed to be staying at Wilderness Lodge this trip, but had to downgrade to the moderate..which is fine cause we still be at Disney after all..but I planned for year and a half on staying there...someday..but your pictures are just awesome!! Can't wait to read more!! :)

Aww...thanks. You gotta love digital cameras with lots of memory!

Those are gorgeous vanity doors, I love how they shut too! Are they sliding doors?

Oh, those doors were AWESOME. They are sliding doors....more like gliding doors. I'm telling ya...the new rooms at CSR were amazing, and well worth the upgrade from the mods, in my opinion.

Loving your report. :thumbsup2

MY DD stayed in WL several years ago with some friends but I was never impressed with it. When we had an opportunity last Feb to upgrade to there for the price of a mod, I said okay and boy was I glad. They upgraded us to a water view when we checked in and it was fabulous. I love that place now and would stay there again without a blink of the eye. I also loved the WC restaurant. What fun we had there!

Keep the report going! Can't wait for the next installment.:worship:

Thanks, ck! Next installment coming up.

LMAO! How can you NOT love our buddy Kara? :lmao:

We LOVE you, Kara!!! :grouphug:

I'm slightly embarassed to admit that I have seen SEVEN of those bands that you listed! Just add Billy Squier, LoverBoy, Hall & Oates, Adam and the Ants, Joan Jett, and Simple Minds and I'm reliving my college years. WOOT!

(I'm catching up so I'm ninja-posting right now!;) )

Awesome, awesome, AWESOME! I've seen everyone you just named except Adam and the Ants! However, can I get a little credit for The Hooters and RATT?

"Love roller coasters. Love Aerosmith. H-e-l-l-o?" "Triple Mountain Whammy!"

Can you guess this is the EXACT same thing we have to do when we get into the room also. I swear - it's Stacy ALL THE TIME when we're in the room. Lauren even insists on falling asleep to it. I couldn't believe they've changed it and had to call and tell her. She was devasted but then quickly replied "Well, I guess I have some new lines to memorize!" :laughing:

Well, thank God the "Lover roller coasters. Love Aerosmith. H-e-l-l-o?" bit is still in there. And I have to admit, after watching the new Stacey program over and over, there were some new lines that started growing on us. "Test Track, Baby!" We also liked the lines from when she was on Dumbo: "Let's go, buddy! Fly high, buddy! Way to go Dumbo!" (Tell Lauren that the new Stacey program is toned down a bit, but there are still some cool new lines for her to memorize!! I am such a geek!)

Ok - all caught up! Whewwww!

CSR looks beautiful. And I'm so jealous of all your pool shots. Our DISmoms trip was too short and we didn't get pool time. Looking to correct that for NEXT year's trip. ;)

As for that gorgeous WL - perfect!:cloud9:

Sorry you girls didn't get to visit the pool. Both times we've been to CSR, I end up thinking I wish we could spend some more time around the pool. I think on our next WDW trip, we will build in a "pool" day. The smell of those hamburgers and nachos from Siesta's makes me hungry just thinking about it!

[ph-mtl]

Hi Alan,

Great pics of WL and also of the family. I will have to plan to visit WL next year as it looks really great. Keep the pics and updates coming. Really enjoying your TR.

Gail

[alan_renfroe]

When we last left off, we were at Wilderness Lodge around 7pm. Our dinner reservation at Whispering Canyon Cafe was at 8:05pm, so we decided to make our way down to the docks and see if we could catch a boat over to the Magic Kingdom! We did not intend to get off the boat....just a joy ride on Bay Lake to see the Castle...and then back for dinner.

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I didn't realize it, but Disney actually built a water bridge that goes over the main highway. That's pretty cool!

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There it is! The Magic Kingdom!! How cool....this morning we got up at a ridiculously early time...and this afternoon we are on a boat on the Seven Seas Lagoon looking at the Magic Kingdom!

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Coming up next...the return trip back to Wilderness Lodge, a beautiful sunset, and dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe.

[stepdisney]

No fair. You can't leave us hanging like this....More please popcorn::

[KatMark]

No fair. You can't leave us hanging like this....More please popcorn::

I was just going to write the same thing. You're killing us here, Alan!

[Lady Lallie]

Hi Alan! I'm here and all caught up!! CSR looks really nice, I think it would be a great resort if you have your own car. Taking the buses would intimidate from there a bit I think, do you always drive or do you take the disney buses too?

[englishrose47]

Hi Alan ! The pix of WL are awesome !! I have date to get my pix loaded on riday and then hopefully if all goes well will be posting this weekend !!

[alan_renfroe]

No fair. You can't leave us hanging like this....More please popcorn::

:rolleyes1 (sorry...i had to upload more pictures into Photobucket!)

I was just going to write the same thing. You're killing us here, Alan!

Sorry to leave you all hanging! Isn't anticipation delicious?

Hi Alan! I'm here and all caught up!! CSR looks really nice, I think it would be a great resort if you have your own car. Taking the buses would intimidate from there a bit I think, do you always drive or do you take the disney buses too?

We mostly take the buses, especially to MK. The only time we drive is usually to the water parks, Animal Kingdom, or other resorts. For the most part, the bus service for CSR is really good. We only had one problem. There was one morning when we waited for an MK bus for quite a while. Also, at the end of a long day in the parks, the CSR bus stop is the CLOSEST bus stop to the exit at MK and DHS.

Hi Alan ! The pix of WL are awesome !! I have date to get my pix loaded on riday and then hopefully if all goes well will be posting this weekend !!

Yay! Looking forward to seeing your pictures, Rosie!

[alan_renfroe]

I think I went a little overboard with the picture-taking on the boat ride! But about half of these pictures are Juliana's!

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Do I look tired to you? By this time, I was really starting to relax...maybe too much!

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(continued in next post)

[alan_renfroe]

My favorite time of day of my favorite time of year! Dusk in early summer....awesome!

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Love the Spanish moss in the trees!

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Finally, we were back at Wilderness Lodge...and we were STARVING!

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We checked in at Whispering Canyon around 7:50pm for our 8:05 reservation. We were given a buzzer and found a couch in the main area to wait. While we were waiting, we just enjoyed being in this beautiful building...and pondering the week ahead of us! It was so great to be back at Disney World once again!

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Again, do I look tired?

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As we sat there waiting, I began to get more than just hungry. I think I waited a little too long to eat. I had been up since 3am and driven 11 hours. We were all exhausted. 8:05pm came and went. Finally, at 8:15pm, we were called to our table. We were FINALLY going to have our first meal of this trip on the Deluxe Dining Plan!

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Coming up next - dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe, and the end of Day 1.

[Michelle_and_Aaron]

Wow you guys did get a TON of pic on the boat. But it is totally understandable because it was your first day back at Disney and everything was so beautiful!

[2xcited2sleep]

A dinner/food porn cliffhanger! :lmao: You guys do look a bit tired waiting there in the lobby. Understandably so. I'm not sure I would have been conscious! Hope you don't fall asleep in your skillets!! :eek:

Love the boat pics - especially the rainbow! Dusk is my favorite time at WDW too! :cloud9:

[kalikat420]

Great pics! Can't wait for more!

[Camster0307]

Awesome, awesome, AWESOME! I've seen everyone you just named except Adam and the Ants! However, can I get a little credit for The Hooters and RATT?

I'll match you The Hooters (saw them too) and replace your RATT concert with my Def Lepperd concert. Actually, I saw Def Leppard WITH Billy Squier. What a head-banging night that was!:lmao:

Love that boat ride from WL to MK!

[valleygirl]

Hi Alan,
I'm loving your trip report. I'm actually reading it right now while sitting next the fountain in the courtyard of Casitas 5 at CSR. Decided to let DH sleep in this morning and catch up with the postings on the DIS.

[englishrose47]

Good Morning Renfroes !!popcorn::

[lovedonaldduck]

More beautiful pictures. Now I am wondering why there are no pictures in my stash of the Grand Floridian or Polynesian from our many, many boat rides from Fort Wilderness to Magic Kingdom. Guess I'll need to fill those in on our next trip. :)

[bucci818]

Beautiful pictures again! I love your TR, I feel like I'm part of the family trip. Can't wait to read about WCC......did you ask for Ketchup??? popcorn::

[ckdsnynt]

Sorry you girls didn't get to visit the pool. Both times we've been to CSR, I end up thinking I wish we could spend some more time around the pool. I think on our next WDW trip, we will build in a "pool" day. The smell of those hamburgers and nachos from Siesta's makes me hungry just thinking about it!

Yeah, well, this past trip was our first time to actually plan a whole seven days and only five for the parks so we could lay by the pool at the resort and we had monsoons there! So, the only day we actually had that was pool-worthy was the day we left and by golly, I was going to sit at that pool until the ME bus came to pick me up! and I did too! :rotfl2: Who cares that I had a carry on that weighed twenty pounds with wet swim suits and coverups and smelled like chlorine!

I still plan on a return trip as soon as I can boogy out of here! Your pics and TR ain't helping me one bit, my friend:laughing:

Seriously, tho, you have a great family and I truly enjoy reading the TR. Reminds me of when my kids were young and we would take them to WDW. I still have pics of my son at the age of 12 with knee high white socks, three colored rings at the top and extremely short shorts on! Blackmail pics! Now, he hates all things Disney. Maybe I overdid it?

[Minnie&Nana]

LOVE LOVE LOVE the TR so far!!!

What a great family - I can't wait to see and read more!

[alan_renfroe]

Wow you guys did get a TON of pic on the boat. But it is totally understandable because it was your first day back at Disney and everything was so beautiful!

Everything was just so beautiful...and we were FINALLY at Disney after our year-long wait! We went a little picture-crazy!!

A dinner/food porn cliffhanger! :lmao: You guys do look a bit tired waiting there in the lobby. Understandably so. I'm not sure I would have been conscious! Hope you don't fall asleep in your skillets!! :eek:

Love the boat pics - especially the rainbow! Dusk is my favorite time at WDW too! :cloud9:

Oh, I'll food porn cliffhang you in a heartbeat!!! :rotfl2:

We were SOOO tired as we were waiting to be called for our meal. I could have gone to sleep in that chair....and don't rule out a sleeping Renfroe or two in the skillets!

Great pics! Can't wait for more!

Thanks! More on the way.

I'll match you The Hooters (saw them too) and replace your RATT concert with my Def Lepperd concert. Actually, I saw Def Leppard WITH Billy Squier. What a head-banging night that was!:lmao:

Love that boat ride from WL to MK!

Oh yeah...well I saw Def Leppard TWICE....once on the Pyromania tour, and again on the Hysteria tour. Here's what's funny.....I saw Billy Squier with RATT!!! :rotfl2: When I saw The Hooters they opened for LoverBoy! Oh, and I'll raise you an AC/DC!

Hi Alan,
I'm loving your trip report. I'm actually reading it right now while sitting next the fountain in the courtyard of Casitas 5 at CSR. Decided to let DH sleep in this morning and catch up with the postings on the DIS.

Oh, I am SO jealous right now!!! (Actually, I'm happy for you!! Soak it all in!)

Good Morning Renfroes !!popcorn::

Good afternoon, Rosie.

More beautiful pictures. Now I am wondering why there are no pictures in my stash of the Grand Floridian or Polynesian from our many, many boat rides from Fort Wilderness to Magic Kingdom. Guess I'll need to fill those in on our next trip. :)

Oh well....just a great excuse to go back to Ft. Wilderness again soon, right?

Beautiful pictures again! I love your TR, I feel like I'm part of the family trip. Can't wait to read about WCC......did you ask for Ketchup??? popcorn::

You can be an honorary Renfroe if you'd like!!

WCC and ketchup stories just ahead...

Yeah, well, this past trip was our first time to actually plan a whole seven days and only five for the parks so we could lay by the pool at the resort and we had monsoons there! So, the only day we actually had that was pool-worthy was the day we left and by golly, I was going to sit at that pool until the ME bus came to pick me up! and I did too! :rotfl2: Who cares that I had a carry on that weighed twenty pounds with wet swim suits and coverups and smelled like chlorine!

I still plan on a return trip as soon as I can boogy out of here! Your pics and TR ain't helping me one bit, my friend:laughing:

Seriously, tho, you have a great family and I truly enjoy reading the TR. Reminds me of when my kids were young and we would take them to WDW. I still have pics of my son at the age of 12 with knee high white socks, three colored rings at the top and extremely short shorts on! Blackmail pics! Now, he hates all things Disney. Maybe I overdid it?

:rotfl2: That is TOO funny, CK! That would be my luck on planning a pool day. In fact, we found ourselves wishing that we had bought the parkhopper instead of the waterparks & more package on this trip. We didn't get the full value from the waterparks package this time. More on that later.

LOVE LOVE LOVE the TR so far!!!

What a great family - I can't wait to see and read more!

Awww...thank you VERY much! Thanks for reading.

A new chapter will be on its way soon...but gotta go for right now.

Alan

[NMW]

Alan your TR is fantastic. It is a shame that we didn't get to meet. Can't wait to hear more.

[englishrose47]

popcorn::

[KatMark]

Waiting....:rolleyes1

[alan_renfroe]

Finally, it was time for dinner! The smell of barbeque penetrated the area in the atrium where we were sitting...so we had been smelling our dinner for over half an hour. (Everything smelled great!)

Whispering Canyon Cafe is loud, crowded, and LOTS of fun if you're in the mood for it. We had read reviews and knew a little bit about what to expect.

We were seated at a table that was not in the main dining area, but rather a quaint room with a fireplace with only about 4 other tables. It was almost like we were just outside of the "fun zone." That didn't matter to us. In fact, at this point, we were all SO tired that we actually enjoyed being placed in a less-noisy area.

Now in the days leading up to our vacation, Wil had been coughing and sneezing a little. Both he and Juliana had gone to the doctor the previous week, and both had sinus infections. Wil's was so bad that it was causing a sore throat and coughing. Once we were seated, and before we could even place our drink orders, Wil needed to go to the bathroom. Next, both of the girls decided they needed to go also. So there I was...all alone at this lovely table at the Whispering Canyon Cafe in this fireplace room.

Our server came over and introduced herself. Her name was Suzan (spelled with a "Z",) but she said that everyone calls her "Lazy Suzan!" I thought to myself, "oh great...we get Lazy Suzan!" Actually, she was a fantastic server. She had several tables, but she was hauling her non-lazy butt off. She was caring, funny, cool, and attentative.

I loved the laid-back cheesy Western feel of this dining room! It was complete with wagonwheel chandeliers and wooden chairs with pictures on the backs.

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This was my view from the dining room into the atrium where we were just sitting minutes earlier:

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Normally, at a place like this, I would have ordered a beer. This seemed like a good beer place. However, Elizabeth and I both just ordered sodas. Did I mention how tired we were? Anyway, soon Lazy Suzan was back with our menus.

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For an appetizer, Wil and I both ordered the Southwestern Chicken Soup. It was very, VERY good....and it really hit the spot. We were starving!

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Elizabeth ordered the Western Chips & Dip for two (but only for one). Her request was granted...no problem. The dip was good, but not great. Wil & I definitely had the better appetizer.

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Juliana got the fruit cup:

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Uh....I know it is a child's fruit cup, but it only had like 3 or 4 pieces of fruit!

Not long after we got our appetizers, the entire restaurant started doing the "hokey pokey." Juliana, who would normally be up for something like this, refused to get up and participate. Wil, however, and quite surprisingly, got up and got into it full on! I was so proud of him for meustering up that Disney Spirit! Way to go, Wil!

For our entrees, Elizabeth and I both ordered the all-you-care-to-enjoy Canyon Skillet, which included barbeque brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, corn-on-the-cob, coleslaw, cowboy beans and mashed potatoes. It also came with a salad, which was excellent. It had an apple balsamic dressing that was absolutely delicious.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-190.jpg

Okay, honestly....now that I've had that big bowl of Southwestern soup and that huge salad, I was really full! All of the sudden, Lazy Suzan brings us this HUGE skillet!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-199.jpg

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http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-200.jpg

The food was terrific! The unfortunate part was that I was so full and so tired, I couldn't fully enjoy this meal! This is not like me! Wake up, stupid! On a normal night, I could have tackled this skillet like a champ....but not tonight. I ate the ribs and the brisket, both of which were excellent. Elizabeth ate the chicken, brisket, and a little pulled pork and potatoes, which she said were terrific.

Wil ordered the Roast Chicken. I didn't realize it when he ordered it, but it was half of an entire chicken!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-196.jpg

It was very good....but like us, he was just too full to eat it...and too tired. He loved the green beans, but only ate a few bites of the chicken.

Juliana had the cheeseburger....and yep, you guessed it....she barely touched it. NOTE TO SELF - in the future, do not schedule dinners past 8pm on the day we arrive after an 11 hour drive!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-195.jpg

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-197.jpg

Lazy Suzan kept coming over to ask if everything was okay. We kept telling her that we were just tired and not very hungry. She was afraid we didn't like our food...but we did, honest! I sincerely thought I was going to keel over into that skillet! (Did I mention we were tired?) We felt bad that we weren't eating, and we finally asked for a "to go" box for Wil's untouched chicken.

Lazy Suzan gave us a few minutes, and then came back to get dessert orders. Okay folks....here's where I want to tell you about the Deluxe Dining Plan....it is absolutely AWESOME!!! BUT, beware....no human being can possibly eat this much for seven straight days! It includes an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert for every member of your party...three meals a day! That being said, we loved it and would do it all again. I just enjoy the "all-inclusive" feel that you get in knowing you can eat wherever you want and just about anything you want.

So, back to the desserts. I am not a huge dessert guy. However, Elizabeth and the kids both love sweets. Wil ordered a HUGE ice cream sundae. Even though he didn't eat much dinner, this cold ice cream hit the spot for his sore throat. He slammed this bad boy!

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm41/alan_renfroe/01-201.jpg

I passed on dessert altogether. I would have rather had more of that brisket...on any other day....but I was full. TOO full. Elizabeth and Juliana were full also, but decided to get their desserts to go. Elizabeth got an apple pie that I ended up eating for breakfast the following morning. It was VERY good! Juliana got the chocolate chip cookies.

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The kids both got a kick out of the main dining room, especially when someone would order ketchup, and every kid in the entire building came with their ketchup! One of the five tables in our little area order ketchup once, and it was hilarious when all of these kids came with their ketchup bottles! What was even funnier was that the kid who asked for the ketchup didn't even get to use it before another table in the main dining room ordered ketchup, and everyone took their ketchup away!!! It was really funny, but Juliana was having no part of getting into the spirit on this night....she was definitely past her point of needing her beauty sleep!

As we left the restaurant, we felt really bad that we had not fully enjoyed the experience like we should have. I would definitely come back to the Whispering Canyon Cafe...and I intend to do just that...just not on the first night. I thought for $26.99, that Canyon Skillet was well worth it. As I stated earlier, any other time and I would have drank beer and eaten a TON of barbeque....but right this minute I was thinking about those inviting queen-sized beds back at the Coronado Springs Resort.

Fortunately, we had driven to the resort so we didn't have to wait on transportation. We were back "home" in no time and tucked into those beds for a good night's sleep. Day 1, arrival day, was over...and Day 2 was going to be a HUGE day! I called for a wake-up call at 6am and called it a day.

Next up - Day 2 - Early Magic Hours at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and lunch at the Sci-Fi Drive In!

[pmama]

WOW, those are huge portions. We've yet to do Whispering Canyon but it sounds just like the kind of restaurant we'd enjoy. We like the loud, interactive type.;)

That apple pie looks delicious. Sounds delicious for breakfast as well.:goodvibes

[Lilo'sMommy]

Great pics! I can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip:)

[MarkinNM]

Thanks, I LOVE the pics, LOVE THEM!!!!

10 hour drive, ouch................I cant stand to drive 10 mins.....


Thanks for taking the time to do the report!!!!

[anbouk]

OK...cutting in to join the fun :cool1: Awesome trippie so far! Lovely family and seems you will have LOTS of food experiences with the Deluxe DDP. We were on the regular and just had way too much to contend with on a daily basis. One food question relating to WCC...we have never eaten there, however, contemplating on our upcoming trip. Did you order that skillet for one person or can two pick off of it, how does that work? :confused3

[karajeboo]

From where you were sitting at WCC, I think we sat at the big top just across the aisle from you. Yup, in the little room away from all the action. It was still pretty funny though when my BIL asked for a fork and this is what he got.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/2008_05060155-1.jpg

Loved the skillet, too!!! I wish y'all weren't so tired and full, I think I ate my fair share when we were there last year. And yes, I saved room for dessert too!

[mefordis]

If you don't mind my stepping in to answer, every time we've had the skillet at wcc, we've been able to have people at our table pick off it but they have ordered their own entree as well. I don't think they would allow it if the other person didn't order an entree, however, the place is so busy that no one really seems to be watching closely. But I'd plan on everyone ordering their own food even if you are going to pick on each other's food.

Great trip report!!

OK...cutting in to join the fun :cool1: Awesome trippie so far! Lovely family and seems you will have LOTS of food experiences with the Deluxe DDP. We were on the regular and just had way too much to contend with on a daily basis. One food question relating to WCC...we have never eaten there, however, contemplating on our upcoming trip. Did you order that skillet for one person or can two pick off of it, how does that work? :confused3

[lindseynleah]

Great update Alan!!! Looking forward to Day 2!!!!!

[Jeanine3kids]

WOW!! My Husband would love that place me so so not a hugh fan of BBQ. However I know what you mean about the Deluxe Dining, this time we are doing the quick service dining, we usually do the regular dining but last time we were not happy with the whole tip thing and no app. Plus my DH hates to revolve everything around our dining reservations. Not to mention we have little kids ages 7 5 and 3. So we have decided to try the quick service plan we are eating at 3 sit downs and paying out of pocket Ohana for dinner Chef mickeys for dinner and T-REX. I was afraid to just wing it without a plan. Can't wait to read more.

[lovedonaldduck]

Glad you like the WCC enough to try it again when you are not so tired. We did not really enjoy it when we went in April. Not that anything was bad, there are just so many other restaurants that we found to be much better and more that we want to try. We also had one of the first lunch reservations which may have added to our not overly wonderful experience. Oh well, we may give it another try once we've worked our way through all the other dining experiences on our list.:)

[bucci818]

You most definitely have to go back! We, a group of 10, did WCC back in Dec, and my niece asked for Ketchup, and we ended up with a table full of ketchup bottles. :scared1: She is usually very shy, but when they yelled for ketchup again, she grabbed two bottles and ran to the table requesting it. It was her favorite meal! I had the soup too, and love it! Can't wait to read about Day 2 with my "New" family!!;)

[KatMark]

Glad you enjoyed your meals at WCC (sorry you were tired though). A totally different experience than what we had at WCC--the food and service were awful and DH got sick on the skillet. Perhaps it was just an off night. Unfortunately, it left a bad taste in our mouth and I doubt we'll try it again anytime soon (still too many places we haven't tried), but I'm glad it worked for you (we sat at the exact same table as you guys did when we were there in September).

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

That is too bad that you guys didn't get to fully enjoy your meal, there is always next time!

[podsnel]

All caught up!!! Your TR is just awesome so far! That first day is so surreal- up waaaaay too early, so no sleep, and then you're in your favorite place but it feels like an out-of-body experience!! Well, to me, anyway! Very smart to stick with the soda on the first day.

Apparently, I am a special kind of extra-super stupid on my first day in WDW!!!:rotfl2::rotfl2:


I love twilight, too- your pics on the boat were beautiful, gorgeous rainbows.
But then I'm always sad that it's the end of the day and wonder how it went by so quickly....

Can't wait for more!
:thumbsup2

[Lady Lallie]

Oh my, that skillet looks absolutely delicious! It makes me want to check out some flights for Orlando for a quick jaunt. :rotfl2:

[reelmom]

Just found your TR and I am really enjoying it. You have a beautiful family. I think that we might have to try the WCC next time. That skillet looks so good.

[IlovemythreeC's]

Great WCC review ~ we are considering going there in September and getting ready to make dining plans very soon ~ we cannot wait. This review is going to help us make our final decision.

We cannot wait for more:goodvibes

[jillyjill]

Hey- We're planning a Sept WDW trip w/ressies at CS. We're asking for Cabanas near the Dig but feeling that maybe the bus stop for that area could be full before getting there and last to drop off. COuld that location use alot more of my time?

Our main interest this time around is Epcot Epcot Epcot. How long did it take from the resort to get there and back?

Only have 4 1/2 days so I'm crazy worried about wasted time.:guilty:

Loved your trip stories! Thanks. I've been so worried about the CS meeting my usual WDW Standards. But now, I think it will be fine. Sometimes I plan like a Kamakazi and forget to smell the roses. :wizard:

[clomahony]

Sorry to hear you were too tired to really enjoy WCC. We went there on our first trip in 2006 and had absolutely no idea what was to come. The kids loved it but my husband was horrified at the thought of having to yell for katchup and then to get every bottle in the restaurant, well if your not expecting it, it is quite a shock. He was so traumatized, he won't go back there. To be fair, he is extemely shy that environment is hard for him. :rotfl2:

[Mysteria]

All caught up again. I really want to stay at WL sometime. I took that boatride to MK and was amazed at that bridge too.

Dinner looked great! We had breakfast there on our 2008 trip. Our waitress loved to pick on Den about his tat's and stuff. We had fun and the food was good too. Sorry you didn't enjoy it as much as you could have. Makes for a need to try it again though!

[Maxwell42]

popcorn::

[M & E love WDW]

I have just finished reading the CSR thread and moved over to your wonderful tr. Enjoying it! Can't wait for more. Been to the World over a hundred times (lived 2 hrs away til 4.5 years ago) but never had the ddp. Stressed about making those adr's. Can't wait for more food pics and reviews.

[brookelizabeth]

AHHHHHHHHHHH, the WL. So pretty. :cloud9:

Glad to hear you enjoyed WCC, but that stinks about being a bit too tired to fully enjoy it. We sat in that same section as you did, and were glad for it since we weren't feeling 100% the day we ate there. We loved the food though as well and hope to go back sometime.

That apple pie is amazing, isn't it? We had taken ours to go as well and ate it for a snack on our check-out day. Joe took one bit and said "Oh my word, you HAVE to try this." and despite not being hungry, we managed to devour it. :rolleyes1

[DisneyJo]

Followed you from Rosies TR and all caught up!

Your kids are so cute and they look as though they get along so well :)

I'm so pleased you got a refurbed room, I stayed at CSR in December and was one of the first in the new rooms and they really are lovely, very deluxe looking :thumbsup2

I think you did fantastic staying up so late on your first day and glad you liked WCC as we had a bad meal there in August!

[mickeystoontown]

Oh my goodness. I was five pages behind but I'm all caught up now. I got tired of waiting for our August Disney World vacation to roll around so I started a trip report of my own (from our August, 2008 surprise trip).

[MaryAz]

Hate it when the tired sneaks up and grabs ya! Glad you guys liked WCC. We had it planned for Wed-the day of the 4 hour afternoon downpour....It will be on the list for next time.

[ph-mtl]

Hi Alan,

The WCC looks awesome. The portions looked huge I'm feeling full just looking at them. Well the next time I'm sure you will enjoy it even more.. Looking forward to more of your TR. Great Job.

Gail

[stepdisney]

Okay....kids in the bed...waiting for my daily dose of "Griswold". :goodvibes

[bwmmfan]

I was looking at the pictures thinking boy they look tired.
WCC is way fun. My son got the ketcup at our visit during breakfkast. The look on his face was priceless. The funniest thing was we were one of the last breakfast seatings so they weren't quite seating yet for lunch. He never got to return the favor.
diseny memories are the best:cloud9:

[alan_renfroe]

WOW, those are huge portions. We've yet to do Whispering Canyon but it sounds just like the kind of restaurant we'd enjoy. We like the loud, interactive type.;)

That apple pie looks delicious. Sounds delicious for breakfast as well.:goodvibes

Oh it was soooooo much food! As I look back on these pictures, I'm thinking, "how could I have been too tired to enjoy this?" Well, there is tired...and then there is Disney tired. I was Disney tired. But not tired of Disney, mind you!

That apple pie could have possibly been the best apple pie I've ever tasted. Although Elizabeth was too full to eat it, we took it back to the resort, put it in the fridge, and ate it cold for breakfast....and it was STILL fantastic!

Great pics! I can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip:)

Thanks, Lilo'sMommy!

Thanks, I LOVE the pics, LOVE THEM!!!!

10 hour drive, ouch................I cant stand to drive 10 mins.....


Thanks for taking the time to do the report!!!!

No problem. I love doing the report - it helps me remember what a great time we had!

OK...cutting in to join the fun :cool1: Awesome trippie so far! Lovely family and seems you will have LOTS of food experiences with the Deluxe DDP. We were on the regular and just had way too much to contend with on a daily basis. One food question relating to WCC...we have never eaten there, however, contemplating on our upcoming trip. Did you order that skillet for one person or can two pick off of it, how does that work? :confused3

Welcome anbouk! Thanks for the great comments about the family. I am not sure, but I am pretty sure that they do not allow sharing with the skillet. But at 26.99 for adults, it is still a pretty good value. (That is, if you can actually eat all of it!)

From where you were sitting at WCC, I think we sat at the big top just across the aisle from you. Yup, in the little room away from all the action. It was still pretty funny though when my BIL asked for a fork and this is what he got.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj94/karajeboo/2008_05060155-1.jpg

Loved the skillet, too!!! I wish y'all weren't so tired and full, I think I ate my fair share when we were there last year. And yes, I saved room for dessert too!

That is HILARIOUS!! We didn't see anyone get the big fork treatment!

I think if we would've had ressies for 6:30 or 7pm, we would have been fine. We had all just been up for so long that we were overtired. That being said, the food was really good.

If you don't mind my stepping in to answer, every time we've had the skillet at wcc, we've been able to have people at our table pick off it but they have ordered their own entree as well. I don't think they would allow it if the other person didn't order an entree, however, the place is so busy that no one really seems to be watching closely. But I'd plan on everyone ordering their own food even if you are going to pick on each other's food.

Great trip report!!

Yep, that's waht I was thinking.

Great update Alan!!! Looking forward to Day 2!!!!!

Thanks lindseynleah! Day 2 is on the way.

WOW!! My Husband would love that place me so so not a hugh fan of BBQ. However I know what you mean about the Deluxe Dining, this time we are doing the quick service dining, we usually do the regular dining but last time we were not happy with the whole tip thing and no app. Plus my DH hates to revolve everything around our dining reservations. Not to mention we have little kids ages 7 5 and 3. So we have decided to try the quick service plan we are eating at 3 sit downs and paying out of pocket Ohana for dinner Chef mickeys for dinner and T-REX. I was afraid to just wing it without a plan. Can't wait to read more.

This place is great for: (1) kids who enjoy getting into the act, (2) big hungry men with big bbq appetites that don't mind a little noise, (3) families at Disney who are looking to have a great time.

That plan sounds like a good one with the children. We ate at Ohana and really enjoyed it as well. I actually like having our schedule around mealtimes to a certain degree. I think what I most enjoy is not standing in lines, but rather just walking up, giving them our reservation number, and being seated within a few minutes. I love that!

[alan_renfroe]

Glad you like the WCC enough to try it again when you are not so tired. We did not really enjoy it when we went in April. Not that anything was bad, there are just so many other restaurants that we found to be much better and more that we want to try. We also had one of the first lunch reservations which may have added to our not overly wonderful experience. Oh well, we may give it another try once we've worked our way through all the other dining experiences on our list.:)

I understand about there being so many restaurants to choose from. I think we could go for three straight weeks and not eat everywhere we would like to eat!

You most definitely have to go back! We, a group of 10, did WCC back in Dec, and my niece asked for Ketchup, and we ended up with a table full of ketchup bottles. :scared1: She is usually very shy, but when they yelled for ketchup again, she grabbed two bottles and ran to the table requesting it. It was her favorite meal! I had the soup too, and love it! Can't wait to read about Day 2 with my "New" family!!;)

Hahaha....good for her! Our son, Wil, thought the place was really cool.

Wasn't that soup delicious? We were so tired and hungry, that soup absolutely hit the spot. I could've had two bowls of soup and gone to bed that evening!

Glad you enjoyed your meals at WCC (sorry you were tired though). A totally different experience than what we had at WCC--the food and service were awful and DH got sick on the skillet. Perhaps it was just an off night. Unfortunately, it left a bad taste in our mouth and I doubt we'll try it again anytime soon (still too many places we haven't tried), but I'm glad it worked for you (we sat at the exact same table as you guys did when we were there in September).

Yeah, you never know with those things. Some folks may have a great experience one night, and then another night may be terrible. I can tell you this though, our server, Lazy Suzan, was absolutely terrific....one of our top 3 servers for the entire trip.

That's cool that you all sat in the same place! Too bad you didn't get our pal Lazy Suzan!

That is too bad that you guys didn't get to fully enjoy your meal, there is always next time!

You are right, Lessa! We'll just have to go again, won't we?

All caught up!!! Your TR is just awesome so far! That first day is so surreal- up waaaaay too early, so no sleep, and then you're in your favorite place but it feels like an out-of-body experience!! Well, to me, anyway! Very smart to stick with the soda on the first day.

Apparently, I am a special kind of extra-super stupid on my first day in WDW!!!:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I love twilight, too- your pics on the boat were beautiful, gorgeous rainbows.
But then I'm always sad that it's the end of the day and wonder how it went by so quickly....

Can't wait for more!
:thumbsup2

You are EXACTLY right - it is like an out-of-body experience. It definitely seems surreal. After a great night's sleep, we were ready to hit the ground running on Day 2.

Thanks for the comments about the pictures. That means a lot to me, coming from the vacation picture GURU!!! :worship: You take the best pics EVAH!! I do love dusk....I always have! I guess that is the night-person/musician side of me.

Oh my, that skillet looks absolutely delicious! It makes me want to check out some flights for Orlando for a quick jaunt. :rotfl2:

Yeah, no kidding! I could drive into that about right now.

Just found your TR and I am really enjoying it. You have a beautiful family. I think that we might have to try the WCC next time. That skillet looks so good.

Thanks reelmom! Welcome aboard!

Great WCC review ~ we are considering going there in September and getting ready to make dining plans very soon ~ we cannot wait. This review is going to help us make our final decision.

We cannot wait for more:goodvibes

I think WCC is great if you are: (1) in the mood for loudness & fun antics, (2) if you like BBQ and you are HUNGRY, and (3) if you are a sport and want to play along. (Kind of like the 50s Prime Time Cafe, come to think of it.)

Anyway, I would say that WCC is one of those restaurants that combines MEAL & ATTRACTION in one. If you like your meals seperate from your attractions, you might not enjoy WCC. But hey, if you are at Disney World and all about soaking up that Disney spirit, this is a really fun place.

Hey- We're planning a Sept WDW trip w/ressies at CS. We're asking for Cabanas near the Dig but feeling that maybe the bus stop for that area could be full before getting there and last to drop off. COuld that location use alot more of my time?

Our main interest this time around is Epcot Epcot Epcot. How long did it take from the resort to get there and back?

Only have 4 1/2 days so I'm crazy worried about wasted time.:guilty:

Loved your trip stories! Thanks. I've been so worried about the CS meeting my usual WDW Standards. But now, I think it will be fine. Sometimes I plan like a Kamakazi and forget to smell the roses. :wizard:

Hi jillyjill! I hope you all enjoy CSR as much as we did! We absolutely love that place. I have never stayed in the Cabanas area, but I would like to because of its proximity to the Dig Site pool. I wouldn't worry about the bus stop situation. First of all, even though the bus stop for the Cabanas area is bus stop #4, the buses actually start with #2, so it is the 3rd stop within CSR. (After bus stop #4, it goes to bus stop #1 and then to the parks.) Epcot buses seemed to be plentiful when we were there. The only bus we really had to wait for was the Magic Kingdom. (Of course, that is the park that is furthest from the resort.) It seemed like we saw more buses destinted for DHS and Epcot than anywhere else.

Hey, I hear ya about wasted time. Keep reading my trip report and I'll tell you about a couple of times when we felt like our time could've been spent more wisely. I do think stopping to smell the roses is a good idea if you're capable....it is just my personality to be all gung-ho, so I have to remind myself that I am ON VACATION!

Sorry to hear you were too tired to really enjoy WCC. We went there on our first trip in 2006 and had absolutely no idea what was to come. The kids loved it but my husband was horrified at the thought of having to yell for katchup and then to get every bottle in the restaurant, well if your not expecting it, it is quite a shock. He was so traumatized, he won't go back there. To be fair, he is extemely shy that environment is hard for him. :rotfl2:

Oh, your poor husband!! It is funny to see the surprised look on those who are unsuspecting, but I do feel sorry for people who have no idea what to expect and do not like the attention.

All caught up again. I really want to stay at WL sometime. I took that boatride to MK and was amazed at that bridge too.

Dinner looked great! We had breakfast there on our 2008 trip. Our waitress loved to pick on Den about his tat's and stuff. We had fun and the food was good too. Sorry you didn't enjoy it as much as you could have. Makes for a need to try it again though!

That's right! It just gives us an excuse to go back and try it again!

popcorn::

More coming, I promise!

[alan_renfroe]

I have just finished reading the CSR thread and moved over to your wonderful tr. Enjoying it! Can't wait for more. Been to the World over a hundred times (lived 2 hrs away til 4.5 years ago) but never had the ddp. Stressed about making those adr's. Can't wait for more food pics and reviews.

Thanks for joining us! Hope you enjoy the DDP. Don't get too stressed about those ADRs. A good plan will serve you well!

AHHHHHHHHHHH, the WL. So pretty. :cloud9:

Glad to hear you enjoyed WCC, but that stinks about being a bit too tired to fully enjoy it. We sat in that same section as you did, and were glad for it since we weren't feeling 100% the day we ate there. We loved the food though as well and hope to go back sometime.

That apple pie is amazing, isn't it? We had taken ours to go as well and ate it for a snack on our check-out day. Joe took one bit and said "Oh my word, you HAVE to try this." and despite not being hungry, we managed to devour it. :rolleyes1

We thought about you guys when we were at WL. That is definitely a beautiful resort.

That apple pie was unbelievable! I'm not even a dessert person, but that was just wonderful.

Followed you from Rosies TR and all caught up!

Your kids are so cute and they look as though they get along so well :)

I'm so pleased you got a refurbed room, I stayed at CSR in December and was one of the first in the new rooms and they really are lovely, very deluxe looking :thumbsup2

I think you did fantastic staying up so late on your first day and glad you liked WCC as we had a bad meal there in August!

Hi DisneyJo! We were ecstatic with our room. We loved CSR last year, but the new rooms really make it worth the upgrade from the values.

Sorry to hear that you all had a bad experience at WCC. I just remember leaving there and thinking, "what am I going to say at WCC in my trip report? I can't say that I didn't like it, because I did....I just didn't fully and fairly get the full enjoyment out of it because of being so tired!"

Oh my goodness. I was five pages behind but I'm all caught up now. I got tired of waiting for our August Disney World vacation to roll around so I started a trip report of my own (from our August, 2008 surprise trip).

Hahaha.....Hey, this thread moves pretty quickly! I was three pages behind myself! Be sure to post the link to your new report from your trip last year!

Hate it when the tired sneaks up and grabs ya! Glad you guys liked WCC. We had it planned for Wed-the day of the 4 hour afternoon downpour....It will be on the list for next time.

That is a great way to describe it!! When we were on that boat, we were all starving and excited about WCC. By the time we get seated is when "the tired sneaks up and grabs us!" Great way of putting it!

Oh, we know ALL ABOUT that 4-hour Wednesday downpour. More on that later in the report. ;)

Hi Alan,

The WCC looks awesome. The portions looked huge I'm feeling full just looking at them. Well the next time I'm sure you will enjoy it even more.. Looking forward to more of your TR. Great Job.

Gail

Hi Gail! Those portions were so big that we were actually feeling really bad about wasting so much food. But there was NO WAY we were going to be able to eat all of it.

Okay....kids in the bed...waiting for my daily dose of "Griswold". :goodvibes

Hahahaha!! Hope the Griswolds are ready for Day 2! It is coming up!

I was looking at the pictures thinking boy they look tired.
WCC is way fun. My son got the ketcup at our visit during breakfkast. The look on his face was priceless. The funniest thing was we were one of the last breakfast seatings so they weren't quite seating yet for lunch. He never got to return the favor.
diseny memories are the best:cloud9:

It was actually funny looking back at those pictures. You can really see how tired we all are. That picture of me in the atrium....wow....it looks like I am either half asleep or enebriated!

[alan_renfroe]

After a long travel day the day before, we were ready for our first FULL day of Disney World! We had a wake up call at 6am. Juliana woke up immediately and answered the phone....she LOVES to hear Stitch on the recording! Wil loves it too, but like his father he is not so easy to wake up in the morning.

We turned on the television while getting ready for the day to check out the weather. The forecast? Rain, rain, and more rain. The extended forecast called for rain throughout our entire stay. Well....first of all....don't be fooled by Florida forecasts and weather. We are seasoned enough to know that the weather changes HOURLY in Central Florida. Secondly, even if it DID rain, we were prepared. Elizabeth put our new rain ponchos in her purse before leaving for the day. I took resealable sandwich bags with me to protect our cameras and cell phones. We were ready!

As it turned out, we were pleasantly surprised by the weather! It was a BEAUTIFUL day!

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We took the short walk to bus stop #2 and awaited our transportation to Disney's Hollywood Studios.

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It wasn't long before our bus arrived!

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This was going to be a good day! We were all in a great mood and ready to get this party started!

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This was an Extra Magic Hours morning at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and we had arrived right at 8am. I love the morning extra magic hours because you can ride a TON of rides in a short period of time!

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We entered the park and proceeded down the main path to the rope drop.

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Coming up next - the rope drops and we are off to a great start!

[soulmates]

I'm SO glad I subed to this thread! Great trip report, can't wait for the rest. I'm glad I'm not the ONLY one who after we drive 10 hrs was BRAVE enough to make ressies for another resort. After reading your report, I've bumped mine up 2 hrs!! BTW, we're staying at the WLV's so I LOVED your pics! :banana:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hurray for a beautiful start to the day!

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

Great update Alan!!

[gemmybear83]

I LOVE your trip report! You don't see many CSR reports - and were going for 14 nights this September - I can't wait :banana:

Did you find being on the DDP at CSR ok? I'm a bit worried about getting confused with what is considered a dessert and a snack credit!

[Minnie&Nana]

Ohmygoodness,ohmygoodness....looking at the photos of your family brings back such wonderful memories of our family trips when our were young....now have a grandbaby, so in a few years we'll begin making new memories.

This fabulous TR and pics ...well....I can almost smell WDW...the resort smell...the MGM smell....sigh...wonderful, just wonderful. :goodvibes

Thanks so much, Alan! :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

Looks like it really was a beautiful day, can't wait to read about what you rode at DHS :goodvibes

[TigerKat]

Can't wait to get started at DHS!:cool1:

[serene56]

Did ya ever notice with the pics you have taken at CSR-- where are the people= in almost ALL your photos there are no people in the background--lovely

[KatMark]

Did ya ever notice with the pics you have taken at CSR-- where are the people= in almost ALL your photos there are no people in the background--lovely

I'm glad someone else noticed that. And did you notice that NOT ONE OF THEM has a suit on?????

[TigerKat]

I'm glad someone else noticed that. And did you notice that NOT ONE OF THEM has a suit on?????

I noticed that too, right on!!:thumbsup2

[stacopp]

I just wanted to say that I am loving your trip report!!

[englishrose47]

Hi Alan Sooo Day 2 begins !! :cool1:I showed the girls your pix of WCC and they definately want to go !! See Alan you are doing it again !! Rosies ressies are influenced by the Renfroes !!!:rotfl2:
I have tarted posting pix on my TR !! Yes I finally gt them onto PB!! I stalled on Day 1 till I had them ready !!So tomorrow I had better get to Day 2 !!:rotfl:

[lindseynleah]

Great update...the suspense is killing me....I bet you had a great day at DHS judging from the beginning of the day!!! Update soon!!! Please!!!! :):):)

[alan_renfroe]

I'm SO glad I subed to this thread! Great trip report, can't wait for the rest. I'm glad I'm not the ONLY one who after we drive 10 hrs was BRAVE enough to make ressies for another resort. After reading your report, I've bumped mine up 2 hrs!! BTW, we're staying at the WLV's so I LOVED your pics! :banana:

Thanks, soulmates. I think bumping up dinner is a good idea. (Of course, now you just have to make sure you can make it there on time on your arrival day!)

Hurray for a beautiful start to the day!

Thanks, Lessa! Day 2 is gonna be a good one.

Great update Alan!!

Thanks Pooh's-Honey-Pot! New update is on the way.

I LOVE your trip report! You don't see many CSR reports - and were going for 14 nights this September - I can't wait :banana:

Did you find being on the DDP at CSR ok? I'm a bit worried about getting confused with what is considered a dessert and a snack credit!

You know, you have an excellent point - you really don't see a lot of CSR reports. We just LOVE CSR. I've got lots more pictures to share.

No, the DDP at CSR wasn't confusing at all. The cast members really were knowledgable about what constituted a snack credit vs. a dessert and stuff like that. I was impressed. (Of course we didn't eat at CSR very often.)

Ohmygoodness,ohmygoodness....looking at the photos of your family brings back such wonderful memories of our family trips when our were young....now have a grandbaby, so in a few years we'll begin making new memories.

This fabulous TR and pics ...well....I can almost smell WDW...the resort smell...the MGM smell....sigh...wonderful, just wonderful. :goodvibes

Thanks so much, Alan! :goodvibes

I know that this time in life (having a 12-year-old and a 9-year-old) doesn't last long, and I am determined to make the most of it! That is one of my "Clark Griswold" characteristics. These are special times in our lives right now.

Cool! I love the comment about "smelling" WDW. That's why we have 1,500 pictures! I know a lot of them are just random pics, but I really wanted to capture a sense of actually being there in my report. Also, it helps me remember exactly what we were doing at any particular time.

Looks like it really was a beautiful day, can't wait to read about what you rode at DHS :goodvibes

DHS was a blast! We ended up going there on our first full day and our last.

Can't wait to get started at DHS!:cool1:

Update is on its way!

[alan_renfroe]

Did ya ever notice with the pics you have taken at CSR-- where are the people= in almost ALL your photos there are no people in the background--lovely

Exactly!!! That is one of the things we love so much about CSR....at times it feels like you have to place to yourself!! It is very quiet and serene. I think that is why some people may not like it. If you want the full-on Disney experience 24/7, you might find CSR to be a little too quiet. However, we think it totally fits with the landscaping, the hammocks, etc. Did I mention that I LOVE CSR? :love:

I'm glad someone else noticed that. And did you notice that NOT ONE OF THEM has a suit on?????

Good call, Kathy. We did see a few suits headed to convention activities...but we only felt sorry for them; they were there to work and we were there to PLAY!! Conventioners do not bother us in the least. For the most part, they seem to be envious of the vacationers and sort of let them have priority. When I took one of the pictures of the kids, there was a man in suit walking towards us, behind the kids as we were about to take the picture. He came by and said, "let me hurry by you so you don't have some creepy bald-headed conventioner in your family photo!" (We thought that was pretty funny!) :laughing:

I noticed that too, right on!!:thumbsup2

:thumbsup2

I just wanted to say that I am loving your trip report!!

Thanks very much! The next chapter is coming up next.

Hi Alan Sooo Day 2 begins !! :cool1:I showed the girls your pix of WCC and they definately want to go !! See Alan you are doing it again !! Rosies ressies are influenced by the Renfroes !!!:rotfl2:
I have tarted posting pix on my TR !! Yes I finally gt them onto PB!! I stalled on Day 1 till I had them ready !!So tomorrow I had better get to Day 2 !!:rotfl:

Hahaha....nice to know I have such influence on you, Rosie! I will get over to your report and check out those pictures.

Great update...the suspense is killing me....I bet you had a great day at DHS judging from the beginning of the day!!! Update soon!!! Please!!!! :):):)

Yep...a GREAT day!

[alan_renfroe]

Day 2 had begun. We were up and ready, and now we were awaiting the rope drop at Disney's Hollywood Studios at 8am for the Extra Magic Hour. Here's the plan: Wil & I are going to line up on the right side of the street so that we can high-tail it down Sunset Blvd to ride Rock n' Roller Coaster and the Hollywood Tower of Terror. Elizabeth and Juliana line up on the left side with ALL of our keys to the world cards. They are going to head to Toy Story Mania, pick up FastPasses for all of us, then ride in the standby line. Then, we can all meet up later to ride Toy Story Mania together.

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The rope drops and Wil & I head to Rock N' Roller Coaster.

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We were among the first ones in line!

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By the time we finished the pre-show, we were some of the first in line. In fact, I think we were on the 3rd coaster of the morning. Gotta love Extra Magic Hours mornings! :thumbsup2 Also, it is now official....Rock N' Roller Coaster is my FAVORITE ride in all of Disney World! You've got Aerosmith, darkness, loops, speed....it doesnt' get any better!

We finished riding and walked over to the Tower of Terror. Our wait was less than 10 minutes.

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The Hollywood Tower of Terror is probably my 3rd favorite ride in all of Disney World. So you can see why we love DHS so much. It has most of our favorites! Anyway, we decided to head over to Star Tours.

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After Star Tours, Wil & I decided to call the girls. They had gotten our FastPasses, but we still had time to go back and ride Rock 'N Roller Coaster one more time.

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It wasn't even 10am yet, and Wil and I had already riden Rock N' Roller Coaster twice, Tower of Terror, and Star Tours! Our plan worked beautifully! Now it was time to go meet up with the girls.

Coming up next, the first two hours in the park with the girls....and then we all meet back up for Toy Story Mania. Also, later, lunch at Sci-Fi.